Batavia classic car show isn't just a 'guy thing'
Picture this. Six guys are huddled together, eyes glazed over and salivating. What are they looking at?
An engine.
"It isn't just an engine," said Mike Hill, Batavia's No. 1 car enthusiast. "They're looking at a clean engine with chrome galore that probably has some modifications, fancy wiring or decorative pieces added."
That engine could also be souped up, performance-enhanced and power packed.
It must be a guy thing.
"Don't give me that," said Hill. "Women go through model homes or on house tours to admire the homes and to get ideas about doing their own homes. Men look at cars the same way. They get ideas and they admire the cars that are really something. It's not a male- female thing. Many women enjoy looking at cars as well."
If you enjoy seeing old cars perfectly restored, you'll enjoy the upcoming fourth annual Classic Car Show from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday in the Bethany Lutheran parking lot at 8 S. Lincoln. The event benefits Elderday, a community organization that offers support to those older members of our population who are frail, minimally handicapped or confused. It offers a respite for caregivers and it offers a place for seniors to interact with one another and to avoid the depression that isolation and loneliness can bring. The Elderday programs are offered each day at the Bethany Missionary Center, Monday through Friday. There are recreational activities, exercise, music, pet therapy and intergenerational activities.
The Elderday Car Show will feature a variety of cars from different eras. It will recapture a bit of yesteryear for those who long for a simpler time when the biggest moment was showing off the new or used car and driving it around the local square or through the downtown. For many, including me, it was a time of sock hops, popcorn stands and soda fountain creations.
"If you enjoy looking at cars, you'll enjoy a classic car show," said Hill. "You'll see a lot of '55 Chevys and '57 Chevys. Certain models have a greater appeal."
The shows are fun and they also can be educational.
"These cars have been restored or improved upon so you can really learn from the people who have spent their time and money working on their cars," added Hill.
Parents can use the time at the show to explain to their new teen drivers how an engine works and let their new drivers learn the mechanics of a car before being stranded on a highway.
There will be dozens of cars available for viewing and good food and soft drinks will be available for a small fee. There will also be an opportunity to see which cars take home the various awards from the people's choice award, executive director's choice, best of show (top 10) and the top 50. All awards are sponsored by Tri City Sheet Metal in Geneva.
Many of these cars are worth big bucks so it is time to leave the family pet home. The centrally located show area offers plenty of parking and is great for walkers. The event is free to the viewing public and all proceeds go back into improving the program at Elderday. For more information, call the Elderday Center at (630) 822-9199.