As most of you may realize, the planning of a car show that is of the calibre and size of the annual Nelson Queen City Cruise requires a great deal of work in the months leading up to the event. This year was going to be no different and many of the Nelson Road Kings directors had already started applying for permits, grants, and began making plans with outside groups that would have allowed the show to grow.
Unfortunately, as a result of COVID-19, so many things have changed in a very short time requiring us to restrict the gathering of people in large groups until at least the end of summer. With this in mind, it was felt that the number one priority would be to keep everyone in our community safe and healthy, and this year’s scheduled show for September 11th&12th, 2020 has been cancelled.
One club initiative this year was going to be an engine raffle that would have raised enough money to purchase an ECG machine for Kootenay Lake Hospital. Fortunately, the Lottery Corporation has allowed the raffle to be moved to 2021 and we will be able to begin selling tickets next March. The directors have also started brainstorming ideas as to how car enthusiasts in the area can continue to share their passion while maintaining social distancing.
Hopefully, this will encourage more members to gather for cruises on a Friday night or see everyone embark on a weekend rally through the area. Visiting some of the senior residential homes with a cavalcade of collector cars was one idea shared that would allow many individuals restricted by mobility to enjoy a car parade.
For those of you wanting t-shirts, they can still be purchased through Brian. Payment can be made by cash or cheque to him or by sending an e-transfer to registration@nelsonroadkings.com.
It’s also important to note that we are still collecting membership for 2020 which helps pay for ongoing expenses like club insurance. The directors also thought that it would be important to maintain our current scholarships for 2020 that will help support two students attending a post-secondary institute.
The Nelson Road King directors want everyone to remain safe and healthy during this time and look forward to celebrating the 18th Annual Queen City Cruise on September 10th & 11th, 2021.
Sincerely,
Marcello Piro
Nelson Road Kings President