Auto show dedicated to veterans

The Roosevelt-Aurora American Legion Post 84 has partnered with the Friends of LaSalle Street Historic Auto Row in coordinating the seventh annual Auto Show on Sunday, Aug. 23, on South LaSalle Street. The registration for the Auto Show is 9 to 11 a.m. with awards being presented at 2:30 p.m.

"We are so honored to be partnering with Joe Dispensa and the FLSHAR with the Auto Show," said Commander Mike Eckburg. "There are many needs of the veteran community, and we appreciate all the support we have been given to continue to provide services for these heroes of our armed forces.

Dispensa has been an avid supporter of the revitalization of LaSalle Street. He was the founding member of FLSHAR and worked to preserve and beautify the historic area of downtown Aurora which was formerly called "Auto Row." In building on the historical significance of this block, Joe worked to organize the first Historic Auto Show six years ago, and this year the FLSHAR has identified the Roosevelt-Aurora Post 84; one of the oldest American Legions in the nation, as a partner in not only this auto show, but future auto shows

"We want to dedicate the seventh annual Auto Show to all our veterans who have given so much for our freedoms," Dispensa said. "The whole show will have a military appreciation theme."

LaSalle Street has become a destination, drawing record crowds every year. This year is expected to be bigger and better. In appreciation of our veterans, the auto show will feature military vehicles on display, including the popular Vietnam UH-1 Helicopter (HUEY). All proceeds of the auto show will go to the Roosevelt-Aurora Post 84 to continue supporting Aurora area veterans. The auto show will also support the USO, provide food by Natez Dogz, and host a silent auction in addition to awarding prizes at 2:30 p.m.

The Roosevelt-Aurora American Legion Post 84, founded in 1919, is one of the oldest posts in the state of Illinois. The name is in memory of Quentin Roosevelt, the youngest son of President Theodore Roosevelt, who was killed in World War I in aerial combat over France on Bastille Day, July 14, 1918. They have a membership of more 300 members and currently meet at 8 a.m. the second Friday of every month at Colonial Café in West Plaza, Aurora and 6:30 p.m. the third Wednesday at Pomegranate Café, 55 Commons Drive, Aurora.