Two-day fest driven by desire to spoil dads

The back lots of Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington transformed into a sea of shiny chrome on Saturday, as the congregation mounted its annual two-day DadFest Car Show.

More than 150 vehicles stood on exhibition, ranging from antique, British, import, and exotic cars, to tractors, motorcycles, cigarette boats, motor homes and even a Kenworth truck powered by a Phantom jet fighter engine.

"It's a fun way to honor fathers," said Jim Evans of Crystal Lake, self-supporting ministries director, "and get them to join their families for a day out."

DadFest continues after the 9 a.m. and 11:15 worship services, today, until 2 p.m. at Willow Creek, 67 E. Algonquin Road in South Barrington.

Beyond the custom vehicles, the event includes hot dogs, brats, chips and soft drinks, as well as live entertainment by the Rockin' Fenderskirts. Admission, along with the food, is free.

Members of the church's CARS ministry, or Christian Auto Repairmen Serving, organize the show each year. The group accepts donated vehicles and reconditions them for those who qualify, which have proven to be primarily single mothers.

"This is our day to spoil the dads," said Warren Young of Union, CARS director. "But it's also our flagship day of the year, to present what we do."

Among the mix of cars were three 1929 Model A Fords, including two seen in gangster movies, such as "The Untouchables," and "Road to Perdition," as well as one just rebuilt by Ron Dahlman of Huntley.

"It took me 10 years, but it was such a challenge to complete," Dahlman says, as he pulls out a photo album showing the car, from start to finish. "My grandsons all can't wait to drive it."

The antique model, debuting in its first car show, drew spectators like Mike Harvey to take its picture.

"I really appreciate people who rebuild these cars," Harvey said. "There are only a few of them left, so it's nice to see."

Michael Terry of Columbus, Ind., fielded questions on the jet powered tractor trailer on display.

"With 48,000 pounds of horse power and 21,000 pounds of thrust, it will definitely move a vehicle," Terry said.

The overall mix seemed to delight Anthony Orlandino of Hoffman Estates, who took in the show with his family.

"This is the best," he said of the Father's Day outing. "It's a little more sporty, a little more fun."