Car Show Benefits Vets Who Lost Business in Fire

A classic car show and fundraiser was held in Mira Mesa Sunday to benefit two veterans who lost their local auto business in a devastating fire this past November.

The event was hosted by Vets Cruzin for a Cause, a non-profit organization devoted to helping fellow servicemen and raising awareness for military affairs. The fundraiser was held from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the parking lot of Custom Graphics San Diego located at 9420 Activity Rd.

The car show boasted all makes and models of old school cars, classic cars, hot rods, imports, domestics and American muscle cars. Local motor-heads, active military, veterans and civilians were invited to join the fun and support the worthy cause.

Donations were accepted throughout the day, with 100 percent of proceeds going toward the rebuilding of Hot Rod Rescue, an auto shop in the Midway area that burned down in an electrical fire two months ago.

The shop was owned by U.S. Coast Guard veterans Jason Sharp and Mike Beuoy.

Both vets say the loss of their beloved business -- which was uninsured and just starting to get off the ground before the fire – was absolutely devastating.

The fire, which began at a shop next door, completely ripped through their business. The shop was a total loss, Sharp said.

“I was crushed,” recalled Beuoy. “We put a lot of time and effort into that location and shop. It was unbelievable that the fire occurred.”

Since then, the vets have been slowly but steadily rebuilding their business, trying to salvage any parts and tools leftover from the blaze.

Sharp says they started a temporary shop nearby, just until they can rebuild the original Hot Rod Rescue.

“We’re just trying to keep the dream alive,” said Sharp.

With the fundraiser held on Sunday, their dream is that much closer to once again becoming a reality.

Both Sharp and Beuoy were taken aback by the generosity and outpouring of support from their fellow veterans and San Diegans.

“I couldn’t believe [Vets Cruzin for a Cause set up this car show]. It’s really cool that they did something like this,” Sharp told NBC 7. “It’s humbling. Usually being a car guy myself, you try to help out friends when they need stuff. When something like this happens, it’s coming back to you. It’s an awesome feeling.”

Beuoy said the event has made them want to bring their business back stronger than ever.

“It really makes us realize what a great community we have here in San Diego County. It’s been really uplifting,” he said.

“This gives us a boost in confidence,” said Sharp. “San Diego is pretty awesome.”