Wings and Wheels for charity in Plainville
May 24, 2016 09:49AM
By Ashley Kus The Plainville Citizen
PLAINVILLE- Residents will have the chance to take flight and enjoy classic automobiles at the town’s annual Wings and Wheels event, Saturday, June 11.
“It really gives an opportunity for people to get together and see what Plainville has to offer,” said Scott Saunders, councilman and one of the founders of the event.
From this section: Plainville BOE recognizes Governor’s Scholar Award winner The fun will kick off at Robertson Airport from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. In its fifth year, Saunders promises that Wings and Wheels will have even more aspects for attendees to enjoy. Motorcycles will be added to the mix through Trantolo and Trantolo. The UConn Car Club will also be providing a new display of newer cars joining The Bristol Auto Club which will show off some older models. Steve Emmendorfer, member of the Bristol Auto Club and coordinator of the car show, says some of the cars date back to the 1920’s.
“It’s a good selection,” he said, “there’s something for everyone.”
Emmendorfer will be contributing to the car show with his 1939 Cadillac limousine.
Admission will be free this year to kids 12 years and under, and there will be plenty of rides for them to enjoy. Several new food options will be available including an array of food trucks. Local restaurant J Timothy’s will be providing wings.
“We’re trying to really make it fun and interesting,” Saunders said.
While the event offers plenty for kids and adults alike, the whole day was made to benefit two local charities. Both the Petit Family Foundation and the Plainville Community Food Pantry are supported through the festivities every year.
“It’s all for a good cause,” said Town Manager Robert E. Lee, “they’re two major foundations that are both active in the community.”
The Petit Family Foundation honors the memories of Dr. William Petit’s wife Jennifer Hawke-Petit and two daughters, Hayley and Michaela who were killed in a home invasion in 2007. The foundation helps fund educations, as well as improve the lives of those affected by chronic illnesses, and supports efforts to help those affected by violence. The Plainville Community Food Pantry provides food, clothing, and other services to residents in need. The non-profit agency also offers holiday baskets at Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Saunders said the event got off the ground after him and his wife Andrea, a co-founder and Chair of the Board of Education, were sitting with friends and had an idea for a charity car show. Soon a committee was formed with Dr. William Petit of The Petit Family Foundation, and Susie Woerz Executive Director of the food pantry.
“The community always steps up to the plate to help us,” Woerz said, “we look forward to it.”
The unique annual experience lets people take rides in helicopters and airplanes, though Saunders warns it’s a very popular attraction.
“You need to get there early to sign up,” he said.
Lee says the event brings the whole community out to not only participate in the event, but also to help out. Various local businesses set up booths for the day, while the Plainville Fire Company lends a hand cooking. Saunders says they get over 100 volunteers every year. In four years Wings and Wheels has raised a combined $100 thousand.
For more information please visit: www.plainvillewingsandwheels.com
The rain date will be Sunday, June 12.