Soon, fans of vintage cars and shiny motorcycles will not only catch a glimpse of their favorite vehicle, but also have the opportunity to support Picayune Memorial High School’s Maroon Tide Band at their third annual Car and Bike Show.
“It gets bigger and better every year,” band booster president Mark Hoffman said. “This is my second year to be involved. It was band director John Cockrell’s idea, who is a big car enthusiast.”
This year, the band is raising money to purchase a four-wheeler, Hoffman said, which will be utilized during the band’s halftime performances.
In previous years, the band had to borrow one. Students use the four-wheeler to pull the pit train, which holds the percussion equipment, onto the field.
“It’s a very critical part to get the equipment on the field,” Hoffman said. “When they go to competitions, they are only given a certain amount of time to get on and off the field. At football games, the band parks quite a
way from the field and pushing the equipment is hard on the kids.”
They are hoping to raise about $5,000.
Along with the car and bike show, band students will be hosting garage, bake and cake sales. Students can utilize these funds to put towards their Disney trip, Hoffman said.
“It gives spectators and car owners something to do while their vehicles are being judged,” he added.
First through third place trophies will be awarded to the best in show in the car and bike categories, he said. However, the trophies are the real draw.
“Everyone wants to win one,” Hoffman said. “Our vo-tech students build the trophies out of old car and engine parts. It’s well known throughout the area. They cost about a $1,000 online.”
There will also be door prizes for vehicle owners, he added.
Event attendees can purchase tickets for the 50/50 raffle and hot dogs, hamburgers and soft drinks.
Hoffman said vehicle owners could register from now until the day of the event. The more the merrier, he added.
The cost to register $15 for cars and $10 for bikes, Hoffman said.
The show will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on April 9 at 800 5th Ave., in the football stadium parking lot.
There is no admission fee, but donations will be accepted.
“We are looking for a good turnout,” Hoffman said. “The kids will benefit and that’s what it’s all about.”
For more information contact Hoffman at 985-249-9683.