On Sunday, December 2nd, 2007, Biff Burger continued a great tradition as they hosted their 13th Annual Toys For Tots Benefit Show at their location at 3939 49th Street North in Saint Petersburg, Florida. Last year’s car and bike shows helped to raise over $33,000 in cash and over $6,000 in toys, and as a result of last year’s contributions, for the 6th year in a row the Marines recognized Biff Burger as the largest independent donor to Toys For Tots in Florida. In the past the car show has always raised more than the bike show, so this year’s event was held a week sooner, so the bikers had a chance to try and top the car show participants. Of course, the main goal was to beat last years’ total in helping the children.

Pleasant, sunny conditions greeted participants on Sunday morning, and those registering dropped off a new, unwrapped toy and received a commemorative lapel pin, and event T-Shirts were available, with the proceeds going to Toys For Tots. After viewing the cars and trucks entered in this year’s show, many enjoyed the great food and drinks served by Biff’s, and watched their favorite football teams, as Biff’s carries all of the NFL games. The Downshifters of Brooklyn were helping out by judging the cars again this year, and the 50/50 drawing paid out $409, with $200 being donated back by the winner. The auction once again had great promotional items like collectable beer memorabilia, merchandise and signs. Gift certificates offering great values on goods and services were also bid on, and of course, all the money raised from the auction went to the Toys For Tots. The Marines also sang us Christmas carols, and a bucket was passed around and filled with $262, so the Marines sang for us the Marine Hymn. The awards presentation followed the auction, and in addition to the Top 50 awards, several Best of Show categories were given out. The “Best Of” trophies includes Best Under Construction, Custom, Original, Best GM, Ford, Lincoln/Mercury, MoPar, Import and Best of the decades awards, which included the 1930’s, 40’s, 50’s, 60’s, 70’s, 80’s, 90’s and 2000. The Marines’ Pick, a Downshifters of Brooklyn Choice and the Overall Best of Show were also presented. The Club Participation award was won by the Sunshine State Cougar Club, and in addition to the trophy the club earned $100 cash, which they donated back.

Despite the high gas prices and the steep rise in the cost of living, the generosities of our fellow cruisers are exceptional and they’re always there to help those less fortunate than us. For the 13th year in a row the efforts of Biff Burger and the many show sponsors enabled the car show participants to help the U.S. Marines give many needy children a Christmas present who would not have otherwise had one.

If you would like to be a part of the tradition by attending the 14th Annual Toys For Tots Benefit Show, the information will be posted as it becomes available next holiday season. In the more immediate future you can make plans for Biff Burger’s 23rd Anniversary Car Show Of The Year on May 18th, which includes their famous free pig roast. Three easy ways to check on information about upcoming shows at Biff Burger is to call them at 727-527-5297, visit their web site at www.BiffBurgers.com, or look for the listing in the Coming Attractions section of Mike Kelly’s Cruise News. CN