Over 300 people went to the Bonanza Casino today for "Cruisin' for the Cure," an official Hot August Nights event during opening weekend, and most importantly, a fundraiser for the Prostate Cancer Foundation.
The event ran from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and attracted hundreds of locals and visitors.
Bonanza Marketing Manager Martin Amba says the event served two purposes.
"Not only do you get a chance to bring your beautiful car out here," Amba says, "But you know that it's going to a good cause."
On top of the car display, three food trucks offered refreshments and local band White Water provided live entertainment.
The first 300 people at the fundraiser received a limited-edition car dash plaque, $10 in free slot play in the casino, and drink and gaming specials.
Bonanza did charge an entry fee for all registered cars, but that money went directly towards prostate cancer research.
"All registered cars pay $25," Amba says, "And the $25 goes straight to the Prostate Cancer Foundation and Bonanza Casino matches that 100%."
Going into today's event, Bonanza raised $180,000 over the years for cancer research.
The parking lot opened at 8:00 a.m., but pre-registered cars could enter as early as 7:00 a.m.
One of the first people to set up his spot at the show was Jerry Toti.
Toti was diagnosed with stage four prostate cancer back in 2017. He says his doctor asked him if he'd ever taken a PSA test to screen for prostate cancer. Toti hadn't, so he took the test.
"Your [PSA levels] should be between 0 and 10 [nanograms per milliliter]," Toti says, "They called me the next day and they said, 'Your numbers are 42.'"
Of course, Toti brought his own car to the event. He says there's not a whole lot of 1971 Pontiac Grand Prix Model Js around anymore, making his car a "true survivor" like him.
Toti says it's amazing to come to the fundraiser and see the local car show community come together for this cause.
"You know, I always say it's not just the cars," Toti says, "The cars are a vehicle to get the people together."
Toti says these fundraisers help improve the quality of his everyday life.
"Events like this that Bonanza puts on," he says, "It helps me with my medicine and with my treatments."
Toti celebrates his 68th birthday on Friday, August 8.
