Your chance to help veterans, their families

Organizers of a fundraiser Saturday hope to raise thousands of dollars for families who have had a relative die in Iraq or Afghanistan.

The event at Silver Oak Golf Course will give all the money it raises to the Nevada Patriot Fund, which has given over $350,000 to 43 families in the state.

There will be a plane fly-over, classic car and bike show, military equipment, vendors, music and fireworks at 1251 Country Club Drive where benefit will run from 3-11 p.m.

Admission is free.

The fund was set up in 2003 by then-Gov. Kenny Guinn after two Nevada soldiers died, according to Elaine Alexander, a representative with the fund.

Organizers said the fundraiser is not meant to be for or against the war, but a patriotic event that will help the families of people who deserve to be honored.

Terrie McNutt, an event organizer, said it's for Nevadans who helped Nevadans.

"Can you give a dollar? You can a dollar. You can't say no to that," she said.

The Nevada Patriot Fund does not release names of fund recipients, but for a family to qualify, the soldier has to have been from Nevada, not just the family.

Judie Fisher-Crowley, another event organizer said they hope to raise $100,000.

The event's slogan is, "You can't say no ... You gotta go!"

For more information, call 841-7000 ex. 1019.