Classic And Tricked-Out Cars Rolling In For Charity Show

LUTZ - A stretch of downtown green space along U.S. 41 will turn into a parking lot for classic and custom cars Saturday.

The Tyson Printing and Graphics third annual charity car show is from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Lutz Train Depot at the corner of Lutz-Lake Fern Road and U.S. 41.

Car fans can expect twice as many restored, tricked-out and pimped-out four-wheelers this year. Vehicles include antique cars, custom cars, trucks, Hummers, newer models, and tuner cars.

Last year's show featured 64 cars and trucks. This year, Shawn Tyson expects more than 125 vehicles to pack into Bullard and Memorial parks.

They may use Carolyn Meeker Park for part of the show or for overflow parking.

The local print shop owner started the charity fundraiser two years ago when he ran for Lutz Guv'na. It has become an annual fall event that benefits a local nonprofit organization.

Tyson hopes to raise $1,500 for the Lutz Volunteer Fire Department. The event raised about $1,000 last year to help maintain and repair the historical Old Lutz Schoolhouse.

'We just know how important it is here in the community,' he said of the volunteer department. 'I know there's quite a few things that they are in need of. The county has cut back on some funds that were for equipment and training.'

The money for the fire department will help to replace and maintain CPR equipment, buy new firefighting equipment and apparatus, purchase training supplies, and provide classes for volunteers in firefighting, fire rescue and emergency life support.

The registration fee is $10 per vehicle. Admission and parking is free.

Trophies will be awarded in four divisions: antique cars built in 1949 or before; classic cars built between 1950-82; show cars built from 1983 to the present; and the best of show.

Some early registrants include a 1936 Chevy sedan, an antique firetruck, Mustangs, Hummers, and tuner cars.

'We've got the gamut as far as new stuff, old stuff,' Tyson said.

The fundraiser will include drawings, an auction with gift certificates to local businesses and giveaways. Children may participate in bubble gum blowing and hula hoop contests.

On the food front, Splitters Sandwiches on State Road 54 in Pasco County will have a booth. The North Tampa-Lutz Cadet Squadron plans to sell hot dogs and hamburgers, and the Lutz volunteer firefighters will sell drinks.

IF YOU GO

WHAT: Tyson Printing and Graphics third annual charity car show

WHEN: 3 to 6 p.m. Saturday

WHERE: Memorial and Bullard parks at Lutz-Lake Fern Road and U.S. 41, Lutz

TO REGISTER: www.freewebs .com/charitycarshow or call (813) 948-4000