Thank you to all of those who supported our events and initiatives throughout the past year! We would like to show our gratitude once again by highlighting some of our organization’s happenings during 2017.
2017 SMR Events:
3On3 Slam Jam Basketball Tournament (June 3rd) @ Tornado Park in Valparaiso, Ne
Bohemian Beach Bash featuring Judd Hoos (July 7th) Downtown Prague, Ne
7th Annual Mitchell Ostry Memorial Show N Shine (August 13th) Downtown Prague, Ne
In January of this year, we were able to donate $1,500 to the Prague Improvement and Maintenance Project and their park renovation fund for new playground equipment. The new equipment installed earlier this summer is already being enjoyed by local area youth.
If you are a frequent show goer, chances are you have seen his blue Chevy pickup or you may already know this fellow enthusiast, “Hot Rod”. In an effort to raise money for our friend, we were able to donate a hand crafted whiskey barrel coffee table built by our own members this past February. The table was auctioned, along with other great items with all proceeds going toward Rodney and his wife Tracy. With an amazing turnout from some generous people, the table was able to round up $420 to help with medical expenses for the couple. We wish Hot Rod and Tracy the best and we hope to see them at many more shows to come.
In May of this year, we awarded the 2017 Mitchell Ostry Memorial Scholarship to Landon Sweeny of David City Public Schools. Landon is currently pursuing Automotive Technology at Southeast Community College in Milford, Nebraska.
As a recent graduate, Landon is looking forward to the opportunity to further his education through the Ford Automotive Student Service Educational Training (ASSET) Program at SCC – Milford. Landon’s future goals in the automotive industry consist of owning and operating a successful business where people can receive any type of automotive service they want or need.
“The automotive industry is one that has created lifelong passions and jobs for thousands of people, and hopefully I can be another great member of the automotive community.” – Landon S.
As the summer days started to set in, we were proud to host the Brent Benes Memorial 3v3 Basketball Tournament this past June in correlation with Val Days in Valparaiso, Ne. The tournament, held in memory of our friend Brent Benes, was able to raise enough money to make some needed upgrades to the old and outdated equipment at Tornado Park. A number of teams competed for the title all the while providing for the park so area youth can it enjoy for years to come.
Another summer event that is always a blast seen its best night yet. The 2017 Bohemian Beach Bash, featuring Judd Hoos, was held July 7th in conjunction with Pink Bandana’s Beat Breast Cancer Mud Volleyball Tournament. The weekend was another exciting and successful one for each organization, the town of Prague, and the families of the recipients in need. This year’s proceeds from the Bohemian Beach Bash have been put toward the Jacob Smaus Memorial Scholarship, which was recently awarded to Natalie Abendroth of Lincoln, Ne.
The purpose of the Jacob Smaus SuperHero Scholarship is to provide financial assistance to currently enrolled college students who actively donate their time and resources to give back to their community or help those in need.
As an avid contributor to her community, Natalie displays these traits through a number of organizations and causes. These charities include; the Nebraska Foundation for Visually Impaired Children, the UNL Disability Club, the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, as well as her local church by volunteering with community projects and teaching children during the Vacation Bible School programs. Natalie also is very involved in organizations through her work at Nelnet, such as the United Way and The American Heart Association. Natalie also consistently volunteers for a number of other community projects and fundraisers.
On top of Natalie’s impressive resume in her community, she is highly motivated academically as she pursues a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and Marketing at UNL. Natalie credits her hard work and dedication to her parents for instilling the importance of responsibility at a young age. She also enjoys being a part of the automotive racing scene as her boyfriend and his family actively build and race classic BMWs.
“I am so thankful to be able to serve and give back to my community in many different ways.” – Natalie A.
In the continued spirit of helping others, The Ride 4 Lori saw a number of motorcycles, some classic autos, and even daily drivers this past July 29th. SMR was glad to be a part of this event by donating our time to help coordinate the festivities following the poker run. Many very nice donated items from generous area sponsors were auctioned as attendees enjoyed live music, food, and beverages. 100 percent of the proceeds went to Prague resident, Lori Kuncl and her fight against cancer.
Another special thank you to those who, despite some early morning rain, braved the weather and made it out the 7th Annual Mitchell Ostry Memorial Show N Shine! As usual, a large number of participants and spectators joined in on the Sunday fun-day this past August 13th with show entries totaling in just under 200, even with the poor morning weather. And as always, the day was full of activities, entertainment, along with plenty of home town food and beverages to go around.
Thank you again to everyone who participated, volunteered, or supported in one way or another for our 2017 fundraising efforts! You are all greatly appreciated!
For updates on events and scholarship information be sure to follow us on our Facebook page (keyword: Seven Mile Ridez) and check out our website; www.sevenmileridez.com.
Supporting the Cause
Not only does SMR host the annual auto show, but we also strive to sponsor other events throughout the year that help fund causes within the communities of our members. Proceeds from all Seven Mile Ridez sponsored events support our annual scholarships, event infrastructure, and community betterment by assisting causes and local families in need.
All members of Seven Mile Ridez, Inc., are volunteers and do not accept compensation for our efforts to make every event unique and successful. We take pride in giving back, which is why we greatly appreciate those who support and attend our events.
Club Members: Brandon Ostry, Tyler Wesely, Gideon Gillispie, Myles Rasmussen, Josh Wade, Jake Smaus, Jesse Mumaugh, Chad Roumph, Zach Peters, Michael Wiederspan, Schyler Shanahan, Ryan Dauel, Chase Sousek, Ben Wesely, Lance Vermeline, Jennifer Wiederspan, Van Ashley, Tom Oborny, Dylan Kellner, Tim Gatewood, Derek Kliment, Cameron Golter
The members of Seven Mile Ridez again thank you for your support throughout the year.
