The 3rd Annual Red, White and Blue Cruise is set for tomorrow.

Organizer Robyn Van Zee says that American Legion Auxiliary Unit 124 came up with the idea for the event a few years ago as a way to hold a fun event as a local organization, and raise money for veterans and active military members. She mentions that since there weren’t any side-by-side (a type of all terrain or utility terrain vehicle with room for two or more individuals sitting next to each other) vehicle events in western Iowa, they took inspiration from other events across the state. Van Zee shares that in the last two years, there have been attendees from as far as Illinois, Wisconsin, Nebraska and Kansas, along with several groups from around Iowa.

Registration begins at the Guthrie County Fairgrounds from 8:30-9:45am tomorrow, with poppies distributed for a donation in time for Memorial Day. Raffle tickets will also be sold for prizes, and there will be a 50/50 money drawing and a poker run to participate in as well. Van Zee explains that there will be a short introduction at 10am, and the ride will begin at 10:15am. Those participating will head out from the fairgrounds, and visit a set route of stops that include the Blue Goose Tavern in Adair, Casey Creamery and Tin Lizzie’s in Casey, Short’s Place in Menlo, the Owl’s Nest in Panora and Incredibowl in Guthrie Center.

The Auxiliary also encourages those taking part in the ride to stop at the Original Freedom Rock on the corner of Highway 25 and 120th Street in Adair County south of Interstate 80, and the Guthrie County Freedom Rock just across the street from the Guthrie County Fairgrounds. Riders will also need to keep in mind that four wheelers are not allowed on Panora city streets, and should make a plan to keep on roads that they are allowed to be on. Side-by-sides, four wheelers and vehicles are all welcome to participate, and all proceeds from the event will be used to support American veterans, active service members and causes within the community.