CITRUS HEIGHTS, CA (MPG) - On Saturday, October 5, the American Legion Post 637 hosted their fifth annual Battle of the Bands and BBQ Fundraiser at the historic Rusch Home and Gardens in Citrus Heights.

Alex Candela, Vice Commander of Post 637, explained that 100% of the proceeds raised at the event fund their Vets Helping Vets program. They distribute the money locally to individual veterans in need: Candela said, “If a vet needs help, we help.” Whether veterans need money to cover rent, or to fix a broken-down car, or for food or gas, American Legion Post 637 steps up to help.

Sacramento County District 4 Supervisor Sue Frost spoke at the event, thanking everyone for attending and supporting the veterans: “Reach deep into your pockets because it goes to a good cause.”

Three bands battled it out and provided the musical entertainment: Common Ground, Rebel Creek Band, and Mojo Jones’n.

The Pit Masters of this year’s BBQ Battle were Mason’s Smokehouse BBQ, Texas Roadhouse, Wild Wade’s BBQ, and BRC BBQ — and crowds of people lined up to judge the competition.

In addition to the bands and the BBQ, the event featured a beer garden for adults and a bounce house and games for the kids. Attendees purchased raffle tickets hoping to win bottles of Take a Shot of Freedom — handcrafted whiskey made by American veterans.

After the attendees had voted for their favorite bands and BBQ, the winners were announced. BRC BBQ won for their tender and flavorful brisket, and Rebel Creek Band won the band competition. Both BRC BBQ and Rebel Creek Band donated their $200 grand prize winnings back to American Legion Post 637 for the Vets Helping Vets program.

Event sponsors included the City of Citrus Heights, Sunrise MarketPlace, Walmart, Smart & Final, Reichert’s Funeral & Cremation Services, Citrus Heights Rotary, and Sacramento County Office of Economic Development.