Autographed Guitar Awarded

RIO GRANDE — Debbie Bollendorf of Marlton was the highest bidder for a brand new, Ibanez electric guitar, autographed by The Doobie Brothers, Byrd’s founder-singer-guitarist Roger McGuinn and John Sebastian, singer-guitarist of the Lovin’ Spoonful.
She was the first to submit the highest bid of $1,000.
The guitar auction benefited the non-profit Forgotten Warriors Vietnam Museum in Rio Grande. The museum is raising funds to complete construction of its first building.
It has been operating from a donated mobile home.
Bollendorf was awarded the guitar at a ceremony Aug. 4 at the museum. She brought her sons, Eric and Brett, both classic rock fans.
“It’s for a wonderful cause,” said Bollendorf. “It’s about more than just the guitar.”
“I’m a fan of Vietnam veterans,” she continued. “Without them, we wouldn’t have freedom.”
Edward Jurewicz, known as Mr. J, of Mr. J’s Music Shop, who donated the guitar, was on hand for the presentation. He saw the guitar for the first time after Herald reporter Jack Fichter had it autographed by the rock stars.
“It’s a very good cause,” he said.
Although they were not present, Fichter thanked Cris Simmons, wife of Doobie Brother Pat Simmons and Camilla McGuinn, wife of Roger McGuinn for arranging for the guitar to be autographed at their recent shows in the area.
Tom Collins, museum president and his wife Theresa thanked Bollendorf.
“It’s one more step to completion of the museum,” said Tom.
The museum building needs four windows, an entry door and a garage door. Neither electrical wiring or heat or air conditioning has been installed.
He said he hoped to have the museum open by spring.