USO Show will raise funds for veterans, regional air show

The Cape Girardeau Regional Airport has come up with a novel way to raise funds for its air show and support area veterans.

On Saturday the airport is organizing an authentic 1940s-era USO Show to support those causes.

The night will start with a wine tasting featuring wines from several Missouri wineries. Then Bob Hope (aka local Dan Wiethop) will take the stage as master of ceremonies for the event, featuring the music of the 13-piece Jerry Ford Orchestra.

"The whole idea was that we would provide this as a benefit to veterans," said airport manager Bruce Loy. "We wound up with what's going to be a fantastic night with a lot of fun."

The hall will be decorated in '40s style, and attendees are encouraged to wear period dress or tropical clothing. But they can also come in modern clothing.

Nine veterans, seven men and two women, from the Missouri Veterans Home will be recognized for their service at the event, Loy said. But the tribute is for all veterans, with the show ending in a tribute featuring the songs of the U.S. military branches and "God Bless America."

Several locals, like Wiethop, will impersonate the musical talents of the era -- Pat Blackwell as Rosemary Clooney and Amanda Eades, Sarah Orlousky and Majhan Phillips as the Andrews Sisters -- accompanied by the orchestra.

After the 1940s set, Bruce Zimmerman will join the orchestra on guitar to play rock tunes for a dance to follow dinner. A silent auction will also be held with collectible coins, NASCAR memorabilia and practical use items.

All the proceeds from the benefit go to the local VFW building fund and to support veterans programs at the Cape Girardeau Regional Air Festival.

msanders@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 182

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Want to go?

• What: Cape Girardeau Regional Air Festival USO Show
• When: 6 p.m. Saturday
• Where: Cape Girardeau VFW Hall
• Info: 334-6230