Serving the community since 1970

Blaine Willard memorial car show makes its way back

On Saturday, October 1st, the Wasco Elks Lodge #2419 will proudly host its annual car show and cornhole tournament. The free event will be in memory of long-time Elks Lodge member Blaine Willard.

Leading knight Jerry Bozarth, who has been a member since 1978, said it will commemorate a past member who contributed profoundly to the Club and the community.

"He was a loyal member and was always involved in our car show. Every year he brought a car, and his car will be at the show again this year," said Bozarth.

There will be food, arts & crafts vendors, raffle prizes, a silent auction, a beer garden, a bloody mary bar and music by DJ Boom Dog.

The band Dixie Nuts will also return for part of the entertainment.

"They come every year so people can enjoy some dixie music. It's pretty cool," said Bozarth.

Since 1969, the Wasco Elks have supported and given back to the community.

They provide funding for the VFW, scouts and youth scholarships. They also sponsor the wres-tling teams, Toys for Tigers, give Christmas gifts to seniors from various convalescent homes and host a dinner for first responders.

"That is what we, and the national organization, are all about; taking care of the people we need to take care of," said Bozarth.

He hopes the event brings the community together in celebration while promoting the Club's mis-sion to be of service.

"The fee to participate in the car show is $25, and we will use that money to put back into the community," said Bozarth.

He anticipates that there will be at least 80 entrees, including classic vehicles, golf carts and mo-torcycles.

"So far, I have cars registered from a 1930 Ford all the way up to a 2020/2021 Charger. We get all different colors, makes and years. You'll see a little bit of everything with low riders, classic and newer vehicles," said Bozarth.

The car show draws about 500 people annually, but Bozarth expects a larger crowd of about 1000 people this year.

The Orange Heart Foundation organizes the cornhole competition, which will be fun for both young and old.

"They put this on every year where winners take home a little bit of money. The OHF will use the money raised from the competition fees to fund local Wacco events, like the annual fireworks show and the Wasco Rose Festival," said Bozarth.

Of the event sponsors, Bozarth said he is grateful for them, including Richland Chevrolet, Napa Store, O'Reilly Auto Parts and AutoZone. Their biggest supporter is Cindy Banducci, Willard's daughter.

"We couldn't be successful without the help of our many sponsors, like Pismo Hotel and Cool Cats Cafe, also from Pismo, to name a few," said Bozarth.

He invites everyone to join in on the special celebration, building community and honoring the life of one of their dear members.

"This will be a chance for you to get out of your house to see beautiful cars, enjoy the entertain-ment, eat good food and participate in the cornhole competition," said Bozarth.

The event will take place at 16694 Wasco Avenue from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. For more infor-mation on car show registration or sponsorship opportunities, call (661) 747-8831.

 

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