Corvette club set to host third annual event to benefit veterans

With Thanksgiving three weeks away, families will have a chance to win a turkey while spreading good fortune to those who have sacrificed everything.

The Vegas Valley Vettes are set to host its third annual Nancy Gass Turkey Shoot and Car Show from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 8 at the Clark County Shooting Complex’s trap and skeet field No. 22, 11357 N. Decatur Blvd.

Vegas Valley Vettes are an adult group of Corvette lovers.

“We formed this event to help veterans living on the street,” said Jim Wolf, president of the club. “I think it’s sad that we live in a country where veterans who have donated years of their lives to protect us are left forgotten on the sidewalk.”

Proceeds from the event are set to benefit the nonprofit U.S. VETS — Las Vegas, which provides comprehensive services to homeless and at-risk veterans through counseling and job placement.

Throughout the day, participants are set to have a chance to shoot a paper target with a shotgun. The person who shoots closest to the target wins a frozen turkey.

The cost is $5 per shot.

“You don’t have to be a sharpshooter,” Wolf said. “It’s strictly a lucky shot. I’ve had little girls win in the past.”

In addition, a raffle is planned. Tickets are to be sold for $5 each or five for $20. People will have a chance to win a shotgun with case, a $600 exotic driving experience package or an overnight stay at the Pahrump Nugget with dinner included.

The event was created to honor Nancy Gass, a member of the club who died in a car accident three years ago.

Gaas was a supporter of U.S. VETS who enjoyed going to the shooting range, Wolf said.

Shalimar Cabrera, executive director U.S. VETS — Las Vegas, said that, as of January, there were 1,230 homeless veterans in Southern Nevada.

“All of the donations go directly to the veterans in our programs,” Cabrera said. “We provide permanent and transitional housing, food and job training to get them back on their feet.”

People can also register their cars for $25 until the day of the event. Goodie bags are set to be given out to the first 150 cars registered, and participants will receive a free car wash.

Last year, Vegas Valley Vette member Connie Sandoval said the group donated $3,000 to U.S. VETS.

Vendors will also be on site selling food, drinks and other items.

Vendor space is available for $40 a space. Those interested can call the complex at 702-455-2000.

The club is run by members who attend the monthly meeting at 6:30 p.m. on the third Tuesday of the month at Bambini’s Pizzeria & Rotisserie, 4090 W. Craig Road.

People interested in joining the club must join the National Council of Corvette Clubs for a fee of $35 for the primary member and an additional fee of $10 for a spouse or partner.

“This is the land of the free because of the brave,” Wolf said. “The event is our way of giving back to our community. It’s the least we can do.”

Contact North View reporter Sandy Lopez at slopez@viewnews.com or 702-383-4686. Find her on Twitter: @JournalismSandy.