Elks car show salutes Blaine Willard

The annual Blaine Willard Memorial Car Show, held on Saturday and presented by the Wasco Elks Lodge #2419, drew a record crowd of car enthusiasts. The event was a tribute to Blaine Willard, who served the lodge and the community for many years. The large turnout demonstrated just how much Blaine was admired, with attendees coming from near and far to honor his memory.

Linda Ballengee thought it was a great show. Her husband, Mark Ballengee, brought his 1933 Victory, and she liked seeing the other cars. The best part for her was reconnecting with old friends. Speaking about Willard, she said, "He was an awesome guy, a friend to everyone. If you needed anything, he was always there to help. This event is a fitting tribute to him because he loved the Elks. Everyone knew he was a huge part of it."

Mark, a member for over 20 years, added, "I met him in my teens. He was a tough guy, but he had the softest heart around. Blaine was a Buttonwillow Lions Club member and later joined the Elks, where he spent a lot of time. He loved coming to the Elks Club and playing cards. He was a close friend. Attending this car show brings back good memories, and it's a way to continue supporting his family. His daughter, Cindy, is still very close to us."

Friends traveled from afar to attend the annual event. Another Elks member of 40 years, Geary Anderson, came from Pismo Beach. "Blaine was a good guy. He'd give you the shirt off his back if he liked you. I was sad to see him go when he passed. He was a good friend and supported every club event. If it wasn't monetarily, it was physically. He participated in events, setting up-he did everything. He always had a smile on his face. He had a passion for cars, which is why this car show is so fitting. It was his dream."

Jessica Smart visited from Bakersfield. "I think it's such a small town that rallies together, and everyone is so close-knit. They have each other's backs, and you can tell from age 13 all the way up to 75. That is what is so special – everyone is so close, you can't tell the difference, that they're not family. They are extremely kind and hospitable. I didn't mind the day trip to hang out with good people and see beautiful cars."

There were many stunning vehicles, and Kenny Oliver took 1st place for his 1965 Chevelle and 1st place for his 2021 Challenger Hellcat Widebody SRT. "It's pretty cool to come back and get recognized with all the other great cars here with my Wasco friends. It's always great with the Elks."

Brian Enns won 1st place for his 1955 Pontiac Chieftain. "I've worked on it for the last six years and am still working. I've won 1st for the second year in a row. It feels good because it's a big accomplishment – starting out as nothing, being able to build something and being able to drive it. I enjoyed the show. There are a lot of nice cars out here and a lot of work."