Having been well received last winter, members of the Pine Island VFW will again host a Car, Bike and Truck Show to benefit veterans.
Whatever mode of motorized transportation you fancy, it is sure to be on display during the event to take place at the Pine Island VFW Saturday, March 12, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. During last year’s event, everything from vintage vehicles to today’s modern marvels were on display.
The Car, Bike and Truck show is free and open to the public, however, those wishing to show off their vehicles will be asked to donate a $20 registration fee. Trophies will be awarded to the top 50 vehicles registered for the show. In addition, participants and visitors can enjoy raffles, food and entertainment during the event.
“Last year was the first time we sponsored a car show and it went over very well. There hasn’t been one on the island in quite a while and people really enjoy seeing all kinds of vehicles, so we think we will attract a good crowd again this year,” said event organizer Tommy Caldwell.
Caldwell and his committee have been registering vehicles for last several weeks and said that response had been good.
“So far we have everything from a 1917 Model A to a vehicle made from mahogany and I am sure that as the day approaches we will see a lot more,” Caldwell said. “We have folks coming from as far away as Naples and Punta Gorda, but it seems most of the cars are from owners who live right here on the island. We also expect to see members from local car clubs as well as motorcycle riders showing up on the day of the show.”
Caldwell anticipates that this year’s event will attract between 75 and 100 registered participants. Those registering will be eligible to receive one of 50 trophies and the first 50 to register will also receive dash plaques.
Admission for spectators if free on this day and the VFW will be open to the public. In addition to the Car, Bike and Truck Show numerous 50/50 drawings will be offered as well as a raffle for a boat, motor and trailer suitable for fishing local waters. Volunteers also will be firing up the grill to sell hot dogs, hamburgers and brats at reasonable prices and a beer tent will be set up on the VFW grounds as well. Music will be provided by Bob “Elivs” Betz.
“I want to stress that the money we raise from the show will directly benefit veterans here on Pine Island. There is so much need here and that is what we want to address,” Caldwell said. “The money we raise will help to feed and cloth veterans in need and help them out in any way we can. I also think this is a good time to show off American built vehicles and to remind people just how important it is to buy American made and not continue to send their money overseas.”
The Pine Island VFW is located at 8150 Stringfellow Road in St. James City. From more information or to register a vehicle, call Tommy Caldwell at 419-654-1646.