A swarm of Bugs will descend Sunday

The 13th annual show devoted to all things Volkswagen is coming to the fairgrounds.

By CHASE SQUIRES

© St. Petersburg Times,
published November 10, 2001

DADE CITY -- Come Sunday, the Pasco County Fairgrounds will sport more bugs than a windshield in the Everglades.

The 13th annual Florida Bug Jam Volkswagen Show, billed this year as the "baker's dozen" event, is expected to lure more than 350 classic and new customized Volkswagens. Look for the popular Beetle -- old and new -- the old hippie wagon vans, sand rails, sports cars and kit cars.

"We've got something for everyone," founder Jeannie Brumley said. "It's not just for guys who build cars; it's for kids, moms and people who don't even own a Bug."

The event raises thousands for charity, helps fill a local food bank and lures visitors from across the country, Brumley said.

But, remember, the Bugs are the stars.

Magazines Hot VWs and VW Trends are both expected to attend, along with vendors offering new and used parts for Volkswagens.

And enthusiasts from as far as Pennsylvania and Washington state have registered for competitions that will reward competitors in more than 50 classes.

But in addition, the one-day event also includes live music from oldies band Linder & Brock -- with some of the tunes played on trash cans -- clowns, an auction featuring everything from Bug parts to autographed sports and music memorabilia and hard-to-get Mac Tools collectibles, and a raffle for plenty of prizes such as Walt Disney World tickets.

Proceeds from the event go to All Children's and Saint Jude hospitals and Ronald McDonald House, as well as the Land O'Lakes High School Band and the Pasco Food Bank.

"A lot of charities are really hurting right now, especially the Food Bank," Brumley said. "A lot of people have been laid off, and there was an outpouring of support for New York, but we can't forget the people back home."

Organizers hope to collect more than 6,000 pounds of food for the Food Bank. Visitors are also encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy or cash donation to the toy drive for All Children's Hospital.

If you go

The Florida Bug Jam is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday at the Pasco County Fairgrounds, just west of Dade City on State Road 52. Admission for adults is $4 plus a nonperishable food item -- something good, such as canned meat or vegetables, not just the odd can of pie filling and beets, organizers ask. Children are admitted free with a can of food. Parking is $2. No pets, please. The Internet site is at floridabugjam.com.

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