Port Richey committee finalizes plans for October car show, trunk-or-treat; limited centennial rum to be distributed

The Port Richey events committee on Thursday reviewed final logistics for an October car show and trunk-or-treat event, confirming sales of leftover merchandise and limited-edition centennial rum and arrangements for public-safety support.

Thomas Lombardo, a resident who spoke during public comment, said preparations were on track: "Everything is running properly, and we're ready to go," and noted that Walmart had helped publicize the event. Committee members discussed sale items and prices: T-shirts will be sold for $15, commemorative coins for $10, and the limited centennial rum was discussed as a collectible distributed through a wait list; the chair noted there are 96 bottles available out of 100 produced.

The committee agreed sales at the event will be cash only and discussed practical logistics: volunteers to staff the booth, a cash box and change, and a plan to limit one bottle per person for the limited-run rum with a wait list for additional requests. Members also reviewed vendor and tent placement, trophies for car-show awards, and the need for a staffing plan to run the booth throughout the day.

Public-safety coordination was a central point. Committee members said local police and fire will assist with traffic control and child-safety activities; the police previously blocked off key access points during similar events, and an officer was noted to plan a themed tent and cruiser display for community outreach. Barricades, set-up timing (vendors to arrive early, car roll call at 9 a.m., show start at 10 a.m.), and an expanded footprint to improve traffic flow were discussed.

The committee also outlined next steps: confirm volunteer assignments, finalize a cash-handling plan with city staff, and notify people on the wait list for limited items before opening sales to the public. No formal vote was recorded; members set follow-up planning meetings to lock down remaining details.