On Saturday, May 25, 2008, the 3rd Annual Bay Life Church Car Show was held at the Bay Life Church in Brandon, Florida. Breezy and warm temperatures, along with puffy threatening clouds greeted everyone as they registered their rides. The event was open to all years, makes and models, and 263 vehicles were signed up for this year’s event, topping last year’s attendance of 148 vehicles. Goody bags were given out to those who registered, and door prizes were also given out throughout the day. A raffle was held for a $200 gift certificate from “Wood You” furniture. Chick-Fil-A was on site again this year, and had a tent set up with iced tea, Chick-Fil-A sandwiches, and other menu items offered for sale. A soft drink tent was also set up by the Bay Life Church High School Youth Group, offering soft drinks, hot dogs and hamburgers. The Tampa Bay Rays Minor League Baseball team also set up a tent, and brought some give-away items and displayed a pretty cool looking Hummer wrapped in Rays attire. This weekend was also Memorial Day weekend, and a special Memorial Day tribute was held for our military heroes. Inside the entrance way to the church were several craft show exhibits and demonstrations, and this was a great way to take a break from the heat and enjoy a little air conditioning.

While the judging was taking place, participants went around the show area selecting their favorite ride. The weather forecast had called for scattered showers, and even though the clouds looked threatening earlier, the rain held off, and around 3:00pm the judging was completed, and the results were made know for the Judges’ Choice Awards. In addition, the awards were presented for the People’s Choice, and the Kids’ Pick, which went to a VW named “Herbie”. The 1st Annual Marie D’Anglio Memorial Award was also presented, and the Club Participation Award went to the 350Z Club of Florida. The winners of the Show Favorite Trophies parked their rides in front of the church, where the crowd was gathered for the awards ceremony. This is a neat idea and gives everyone a chance to see the winners as well as the opportunity to take pictures of the show favorites. Majestic Memories Photography was also on hand, taking pictures of the show favorites.

The Bay Life Church High School You Group’s members are very active in helping host the Annual Bay Life Church Car Show, and the show supports their many different missions throughout the year. If you would like to attend next year’s show, the Bay Life Church is located at 1017 Kingsway Road, about 1 mile north of Brandon Blvd., also known as State Route 60. Info for next year’s event can be obtained by calling 813-661-3696 or 813-661-8397, or by visiting www.baylifecarshow.com. Of course you can also check for a listing in the Coming Attractions section of Mike Kelly’s Cruise News as the 2009 show draws closer. CN