On The Town:

Founded in 1952, the Road Kings have become as much a part of the fabric of Burbank as the iconic studios that reside within our borders. Committed to continuing the racing and hot rod traditions of the past, the organization has also played a vital role in supporting many local charitable and civic organizations.

Along with the numerous Burbank events the Road Kings have participated in over the years, every March has seen the classic car enthusiasts donate funds to assist the operations of various nonprofit groups.

“We donate one hundred percent of the money we raise at our annual car shows at Johnny Carson Park and Santa Anita race track,” said Don Baldaseroni, the club’s past president.

“Over the years, with the help of our sponsors (the city of Burbank, Budweiser and SeaWorld) we have been able to donate over $300,000 to local groups.”

The Road Kings gathered to honor their members and to present checks to the organizations they support on March 11 at the Elks Lodge. Members attending were President Nick Sfetku, Vice President Chuck Hanson, Treasurer Ray Astamendi, Secretary Nick Musuraga, Sergeant at Arms Chuck Stein and Bob Moore who serves as the chairman for the Road Kings’ shows and events.

Also on hand were club members and supporters Al Gonzales, Ted Saraf, Ginny Hanson, Gary Meyers, Bruce Borst, Bob Beck, Blake Wilcox, Ben Curtis, Diane Sfetku, Chuck Null, Roger Nevrel, Danny Nelson, Jim Gascoigne, Don Siglar, Ed Drogmond, Jimmy Miles, Don Hoffman, “Fast Eddie” Salvatore, Gene Kendrick, Frank Nay and Jeff Prill.

Guests who attended as representatives of the organizations that benefited from the Road Kings’ generosity included Burbank Priority in Education (BPIE) Chairman and former Burbank Mayor Michael Hastings who lauded the Road Kings as a great asset to the community, Deputy Police Chief Bill Taylor who accepted a check on behalf of the Burbank Police and Fire Museum, Carol and Kerry Schilf of the Burbank Police Mounted Unit, and Brady Griffen of the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department’s Summer Youth Job Program.