More than once in a press release, the words “the car community is a tight-knit group” has been used.  That phrase may never be more accurate than right now!  On March 9, 2021 (11 a.m. to 7 p.m.) at the Carlisle Expo Center, friends, family and the car community will come together to help a local man (Bainbridge, PA), Art Reisinger, as he battles prostate cancer.  Not only is Art a car lover and well-respected member of the Mopar community, he’s also a long-time vendor at Carlisle Events’ annual car shows.

While cancer is never something we want to face, the reality is, its various forms affect many of us personally.  Art’s love for the hobby, and its love for him, are bringing everyone together on March 9 for a very special event.  Though the event is, in part, being spearheaded by Ed Buczeskie of Carlisle Events, the blood drive is not an event produced by Carlisle Events.  Ed’s passion for the hobby and friendship with Art helped make this happen.  He’s being joined in his efforts by Shirley Bencaz, former sales rep for a Mopar themed publication and Tresa Govern, a Mopar lover and mutual friend of Ed and Art.

The event will obviously include a blood drive, though monetary donations will also be accepted.  In addition, there will be door prizes provided by Carlisle Events and others within the hobby.  The Central PA Blood Bank will handle the donation duties and blood donations.  All blood types are welcome, and blood that’s a match to Art can directly benefit him, though other types are needed through the blood bank too.  Those unable to make the event can still donate at any Central PA Blood Bank event by offering Art’s name in full, or by using donor ID number R-267. 

“What started as a Blood Drive that would be marketed toward the local Mopar community has grown legs and is now spreading across the country,” said Buczeskie.  “Mopar ‘celebrities’ have been donating items to be used to encourage participation as door prizes and we’ve seen an overwhelming level of support from people outside of the Mopar community too.  Art has been such a staple at events in Carlisle as well as within car circles, that everyone has been eager to help he and his family during these tough times.”

Those looking to support the cause are able to simply show up, but to better the experience, the Central PA Blood Bank recommends booking a time slot in advance by calling them at 1-800-771-0059.  For general questions regarding the event, e-mail Ed Buczeskie at EdB@CarlisleEvents.com.

Finally, the Carlisle Expo Center and this event are COVID compliant.  Masks are required and while no prior COVID test results are required to donate, donors are offered the opportunity to obtain a FREE COVID anti-body test prior to donation.