Cars for a Cure cancer fundraiser returns April 7

Community By Linda Trischitta, Editor Friday, March 15, 2024

    The family-friendly Miami Lakes Cars for a Cure show and fundraiser returns for an 8th year on April 7.

     That’s when over 250 cars and trucks – from antique to muscle and everything in between -- will take over the streets of downtown in a free exhibition on that Sunday afternoon.

    Organizers said the event draws as many as 5,000 spectators.

     After picking out your favorite ride, there will be live music performances to enjoy. 

     Multi-genre dance cover band Mantrap will perform on the main stage. Ricky Valido, a country music artist from Hialeah, will sing in the Beer Garden.

     A $30 ticket is the cost of admittance to the Beer Garden, to sip wines or craft beers and enjoy a pig roast. 

    La Bodeguita Restaurant will sell items from their menu, and grilled hamburgers and hot dogs will also be for sale.

     The event is organized by the Alonso family in honor of their late patriarch Roberto Alonso, Sr. 

     A Cuban immigrant, he was the town’s first vice mayor and died too young in 2013 from a rare cancer. 

    He loved cars, including his cherry red ’64 Chevelle.

     “So many of us have been affected by cancer,” said Andrea Graham Rechichi, vice president of The Graham Companies

     “We are honored to partner with the Alonso family by hosting the Miami Lakes Cars for a Cure on Main Street, which raises funds for cancer, creates community awareness and inspires others to join in the fight against the disease,” she said.

     A team of volunteers, including cooks, performers and police officers will all give their time for the cause.

     Proceeds will be donated to Alex’s Place, an out-patient clinic for kids at the University of Miami Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center.

     Hours will be from noon to 5 p.m.

     To exhibit a vehicle costs $25. A registration form may be found at www.mlcarsforacure.com.

     Beer Garden tickets may be bought in advance on Eventbrite at  https://bit.ly/4c3OdK7.

    Sponsorship information is available on the website or email Mendoza_Jesus@Yahoo.com.