Conditions were perfect with overcast skies, but
no threats of rain or wind in the forecast. Under the shade of the
large and numerous trees in the park it was cool enough to justify a
sweatshirt, but warm enough that folks enjoyed walking about and
checking out all the vehicles.
This year would also be without question the largest attendance of
spectators, with the parking area nearly full by 1 p.m.
Sometimes it is just as interesting to see what is in the parking
lot as what is in the show.
For example this uniquely modified “bug” was catching the eye of a
lot of folks as they arrived at the show.
Among those showing their vehicles there were a number of familiar
faces including those of Dan and Marilyn Wheat.
The Wheats’ were on hand showing Marilyn’s parents car. The snow
white 1970’s era Chevrolet Caprice with jet black interior has less
than 40,000 original miles and is spotless nose to tail. The Wheat’s
normally show the car throughout the summer, but Marilyn said this
was the only show they had been to this year. The car was getting a
lot of interest and one fellow even offered to buy it.
Around the park there was a huge variety of vehicles. Some were what
would be called “Resto-mods” meaning they have been restored and
modified from the original versions.
Others in the park would be better described as “Rusto-mods.”
Vehicles such as this funky truck are more commonly known as “Rat
rods” and typically they are ‘designed’ to look like heaps, but have
wildly powerful engines. The idea is that the heap will draw in the
suckers, then the engine will leave them in the dust in a drag race.
Among the cars on display were new cars, old cars, classic cars, and
even foreign models.
Starsky and Hutch were also at the park. The remake of the famous TV
duo’s car with its distinctive red body with white stripe got a lot
of attention on Sunday.
[to top of second column] |
Another vehicle that got a lot of attention was this World War II
era military Jeep, that was loaded with wartime memories from guns
and gear to helmets, radios, and posters.
JD’s DJ Service was on hand keeping the mood light with music and
also serving as the announcer for the numerous drawings that were
held throughout the day for the show participants.
Food was being offered for sale by Mama’s Arcade, a popular downtown
Lincoln eatery. Included on the menu were pork tenderloin
sandwiches, hot dogs, chips, and some scrumptious looking bar
cookies.
At the end of the day, there were a large number of trophies to be
given out including the Best of Show, Sponsor Choice, and the Wayne
Ackerman Memorial Plaque. Ackerman started the Shady Car Show in
Lincoln, and loved classic cars. He started the show as a place for
all to share in some love and joy. Ackerman passed away in 2018.
The Shady Car show proved to be a great event and a wonderful way to
cap off a fun weekend in Lincoln.
Thanks to all those who work to bring interesting and diverse
activities to the community.
[Nila Smith]
|