Cruizin' for a Cause to hold tribute in Annunziata's memory

Tonight’s Cruizin’ for a Cause event, which will wrap up an abbreviated Johnston Street Machines July schedule because of rain, will serve a dual purpose, according to President Gary Maddocks.

“We’ll have a special salute to all VFW members as well as a tribute to our departed friend, Louis R. ‘Louie’ Annunziata, who recently passed away after a brief illness and attended all our shows with his 1956 black Chevrolet Bel Air,” Maddocks said. “Everyone misses Louis and that’s why we’ll honor his memory and family.”

Maddocks noted that the tops of all trophies awarded this summer are done in the form of Annunziata’s custom hot rod. Anthony Ferranti, who owns and operates Johnston-based Anthony’s Auto Body, has donated them for the entire season.

Admission is free for spectators and classic car owners are asked to donate $5 when they enter the Denny’s Restaurant parking lot for the show, which will run from 5-8 p.m.