American Legion Commander Charles Stone stands with his son at the first event in 2016. Photo courtesy of American Legion Post 637

CITRUS HEIGHTS, CA (MPG) - The historic Rusch Home and Gardens in Citrus Heights is the site for the Sept. 14 annual Battle of the Bands and BBQs event to raise funds to assist American Legion Post 637, which provides emergency assistance to veterans in need throughout the year.

The Citrus Heights Community Marching Band will also receive funds from the event as they partner with the American Legion post to raise the funds for local veterans, some of whom are homeless.

American Legion Post 637 Commander Charles Stone said that “the purpose of the event is to raise funds to assist veterans in our community while providing a fun and entertaining way to honor those who have served/are serving, while remembering those we have lost.”

Activities during the day will be both poignant and entertaining.

Michael Anderson Sr. receives a Marine flag at the ceremony honoring his son, Corporal Michael Anderson Jr. of Modesto, who was killed in action in Fallujah, Iraq on Dec. 19, 2004, at age 21. Photo courtesy of American Legion Post 637

The Sept. 14 event begins at 11:15 a.m. with a Ghost Soldier Ceremony honoring Marine Sgt. Nichole L. Gee from Roseville, who was killed in action at age 23 while supporting the withdrawal from Afghanistan in August 2021.

Four local bands and seven local barbecue competitors are donating their time and talents for a day of music and good food, while battling for the best in their category.

The $30 ticket includes the live music and barbecue samples, along with other food, beer, wine and non-alcoholic beverages.  Youth will also enjoy a bounce house, Kids Craft by Home Depot and more.

Previous band contestant Rhythm Riders performs in 2016. Photo courtesy of American Legion Post 637

At the end of the day, attendees will vote for their favorite barbecue and band. The winner in each category will win a monetary prize and a trophy. Local deejay Carlos Verrett, a 23-year US Air Force veteran, will emcee the event and provide interim music in between the bands’ breaks.  

Local bands scheduled are the Citrus Heights Community Marching Band, Mojo J, The Rubber Band and Jared Blum Band.

Competing in the barbecue contest are Taeza’s Bottomline BBQ, Taste of Tuscany, Wild Wade’s BBQ, Q&R BBQ, Texas Roadhouse and Hicks BBQ.  The Way Riderz will serve hot dogs and corn.

This event was the concept of then Citrus Heights Mayor and current Sacramento County Supervisor Sue Frost. Frost was inspired in 2015 in response to a need presented to her by American Legion Post 637 members.

Previous barbecue contestant S.L.A.B. serves meat in 2016. Photo courtesy of American Legion Post 637

Helping many veterans, American Legion Post Post 637 members asked longtime supporter Frost for her ideas on how to raise funds to continue reaching out to even more veterans needing help at different times in their lives.

The first Battle of the Bands and BBQs was in 2016.

The concept of having a fundraiser to provide funds while allowing the community to be a part of the process has received strong support from businesses and individuals. All proceeds will go to the Vets Helping Vets Fund and the Citrus Heights Community Marching Band.

The Battle of the Bands and BBQs will be from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 14 at Rusch Home and Gardens, 7301 Antelope Road. Tickets will be available at the door.

Attendees enjoy the first Battle of the and Bands and BBQs with music and food in 2016. Photo courtesy of American Legion Post 637

Children under 12 have free admission when accompanied by a paid adult. While tables and chairs will be set up under the trees, you can also bring your own chairs and blankets.

For tickets, visit www.Eventbrite.com and search for “Battle of the Bands and BBQs” or email [email protected].