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Sunny Fortuna

Joe Doakes

So who the Sam Hill is Frank referring to when he mentions Joe Doakes? Joe is the common man: John Hill, John Q. Public, Joe Citizen, Joe Blow and the more recent Joe Sixpack, the typical male representative of the general public. This was a popular name in the circus - the ringmaster was often referred to as "Joe Doakes".

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In addition to vehicle-related events, the weekend includes a Friday night Sock Hop at River Lodge, an arts and crafts show, and an antique show. No doubt, the sock hop will set the mood for the weekend, although each of the early events will have its special appeal.

However, the rest of the weekend is set aside for several popular vehicle beauty contests. Included is a cruise of vehicles along Main Street and Fortuna Boulevard, vintage and exotic show and shine, a swap meet and car corral, a hit-and-miss antique engine gas up, antique tractor and farm equipment show, a tractor pull, a poker run and a burn out contest.

There could be more, too, Hizer said, "if someone comes up with a good idea."

And, there has been no letup in ideas. Individuals, Hizer said, are always contacting him with new ideas, including the crafts and antique show, the swap meet, and the sock hop.

Join the fun... catch Dodge fever!
Join the fun... catch Dodge fever!

There is no admission charge for the public but participants and vendors are charged a fee. There is also a charge for the sock hop and participant-only barbecue.

There is also a Kiwanis Club breakfast both Saturday and Sunday mornings.

"I've been to a lot of these (shows) and hey, this is good." said Hizer. "It's me and you and Joe Doakes, walking through, looking at cars, remembering when. We're going to have a great time."

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