San Jose Car Show’s record turnout generates $10,000
Despite a blazing summer sun and an ongoing pandemic, car enthusiasts were ready to show off their shiny customs and classics in record fashion at the San Jose Car & Truck Show at Dupont Station Shopping Center Aug. 15.
The fifth annual event, originally scheduled for April 4, had 93 registered vehicles and raised $10,000 for the Bishop John J. Snyder Community Center at nearby San Jose Apartments for seniors off St. Augustine Road. The previous highs were 42 cars (2017) and $4,180 (2018).
In addition to having Key Buick GMC Hyundai Genesis and North Florida Lincoln returning as presenting sponsors, the San Jose Apartments board of directors and staff also secured support from additional sponsors in an effort to reach their goal of $20,000 in total funding raised from the five shows during its 20th anniversary in 2020. Their hard work paid off as they have now surpassed the $23,000 mark.
The community center, located between HUD-assisted San Jose Apartments I and II on Galicia Road, was named in honor of Bishop Snyder, who served the Diocese of St. Augustine from 1979 to 2000; he died last September at age 93.
Many of the activities and services for the senior residents are held at the center. The complex is managed by Family Housing Management Company for the Diocese of St. Augustine.
“Words cannot express the excitement and gratitude for the community’s support,’’ said Alma Ballard, executive director/management agent of Family Housing Management Company. “The funds raised will help support the operations of the Snyder Community Center and provide, wellness and nourishment for the most vulnerable — our seniors. The residents of San Jose Apartments are blessed by the support given this important fundraiser.’’
The board and staff made sure the show followed CDC social-distancing guidelines for outdoor events, placing signage, encouraging the use of face masks, and making hand sanitizers available to car owners and guests.
Eric Thompson, a sales manager with the Key group, once again coordinated an onsite collection of new models for folks to check out at the show. It’s something he looks forward to doing each year.
“It’s been great; we’ve had a great time,’’ Thompson said. “It’s really nice to know that we’re doing something really good for San Jose Apartments, the Bishop Snyder Community Center and our community. And doing something that everyone loves and that’s showing off good-looking cars and looking at all these customs and collectibles — just getting everybody together and having a lot of fun. Car people are always nice to talk to. They are always very warm and engaging.’’
Dennis DuBois, owner of pristine 1966 Bahama Blue Volkswagen Type-1 Beetle coupe, is one such driver who enjoys this event.
“I love it,’’ DuBois said, wearing a face mask. “I wouldn’t miss this show. It’s for a good cause. This may be the only show I do all year.’’
Why this show?
“It (his car) was getting tired sitting in the garage,’’ DuBois said. “Buggy wanted some fresh air.”
DuBois and “Buggy’’ made it four awards in four years as they took first place for Best European (pre-1970).
The Best of Show award, sponsored by A-Coin & Stamp Gallery, was won by Ross Bremer’s 1958 Eldorado Brougham. Steve Edenfield’s 1948 Chevrolet truck was the top vote-getter in the People’s Choice balloting, sponsored by Krispy Kreme in Mandarin.
The 2021 show will return to a spring date, which has not yet been determined.
Submitted by Joe DeSalvo
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