What a great event!!
Along with the car show was a free concert by a really great local band, free rides for the kids, games, fireworks, etc. The whole theme of the event was to recognize veterans for their service. The day was very overcast and we thought we were going to be rained out - but no rain!!
A majority of the proceeds form the overall event goes to a severly injured local veteran every year. This year's recipient was Army Staff Sergeant Jason Leisey from Pa. SSG Leisey lost his left hand and one ear, in addition to multiple severe burns as a result of a roadside bombing while serving in Iraq.
The Freehold Township Veterans Alliance, a great group of veterans and supporters, hoped to raise $5000-$7000 to assist Jason's family while he goes through a transition from the military to becoming a financial advisor with assistance from another great organization called the Wall Street Warfighters.
The Veterans Alliance must have surpassed their goals as people at the event were randomly walking up to the stage and handing cash to a hardcore marine who was an awesome MC for the evening. There was even an anonymous donor that made a $2500 donation to Jason!!
The response for Jason was overwhelming. After he was introduced, there was a salute to the armed forces that was played on a video screen and the night was capped off with fireworks with patriotic music playing in the background. If you're a real American, your eyes were not dry through parts of the night.
Oh yeah, there was a car show too!! I estimate between 60-80 cars in attendance. All the proceeds from the show also went to Jason as well as the 50/50. Cars from every make and model to customs and restorations were present. The event was put on by the Old Glory Cruisers Car Club and had a DJ playing oldies music for the duration of the 4 hour show.
A good time was had by all and you truly came away with a good feeling, helping a veteran and having some fun with your family at the same time.
Below are some pictures from the show:
What would a car show be without some earlier vintage Vettes?
Cool suicide door punchbuggy!
A lot of lowered 40s and 50s vintage cars.
This ones rare - COPO big block malibu with bench seats, SS hood and side stripes - documented.
Wow , what a nice 79!!
Only other C3 in the show - 71 LT1 - very original...
There were several nice big block Chevelles.
Star Wars themed Saturn coupe.
Another Chevelle SS.
What would a car show be without a monster truck!!
Really amazingly clean Hemi Cuda - drew a lot of attention. Note the plates...
Totally fabricated by hand - includes a Cadillac 500 motor and a late model Corvette IRS. The guy is 72 years old!!
Hope you enjoyed the story and pictures.
God Bless America!
Paul
LukesVette2009-07-12 06:50:18