By Sandy Meyer
The Tampa Chapter 787 of Vietnam Veterans of America will hold its 12th Annual Charity Car Show at Veterans Memorial Park on Saturday, March 14. Funds raised from this event will help the organization assist military veterans and their dependents, including but not limited to, Vietnam-era veterans. Programs donated to in the past include James A. Haley Hospital, VA Women’s Center, Fisher House and many more.
“Our main goal is to increase the ability to reach out to those in need in the veteran community, and all monies raised will be used for that purpose,” said Colonel Guy Howerton, publicity chairman for the VVA Car Show.
The car show will be held from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. with an opening ceremony at 12 Noon, with a color guard presentation from the Durant High School JROTC. In addition to this being the twelfth year VVA has hosted the car show it is also to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War. This will be a fun day for the entire family with oldies music, raffles and a 50/50 drawing. Food vendors will be available for purchase and there will also be Military Museum and memorials at the park during the event. Awards will include Best in Show, Best Club Participation and Kids’ Choice Award.
Registration is limited to the first 100 cars with a pre-registration cost of $15 until Saturday, March 7 and $20 cost after that date. Registration begins at 9 a.m. the morning of the show and checks can be made payable to Vietnam Veterans of America 787 and mailed to P.O. Box 89247 Tampa, FL 33689. Monetary donations are also always welcome and can be sent to the same address.
Sponsors of any kind are also needed.
“We’ll take just about anything anyone wants to give, from a monetary donation to a free appetizer coupon from a restaurant,” said Col. Howerton.
For more information on Vietnam Veterans of America or to download an application for the Charity Car Show, visit www.vva787.com or email VVA787carshow@gmail.com.
