I love the smell of gasoline and old cars.
Many years ago, on our way to a car show in Lake George, my oldest granddaughter, who at that time was about 13, was in the back seat of my van. As we got closer, two awesome classic cars, roared by. She had her head out the window and screamed those words.
“I love the small of gasoline and old cars.”
Me, too, Mariah. Me, too.
When I was a child, there were not really any “car shows.” I would see old cars in a parade, or a gathering in front of. garage, a burger stand, or an ice cream joint. If you have seen American Graffiti, that would be pretty close to my upbringing. And if you haven’t… Why not?!?!
Cruise Nights
And nowadays, there is a show or a cruise night seemingly EVERYWHERE! And I love it.
Over the years, I have put on my share of shows and events. I have collaborated with some great people and organizations over the years. And let me tell you, planning an event is hard work. It is meetings and gatherings over the year in preparation for that 1 or two days.
It is working on finding sponsors, vendors, food, and that ever elusive creature… VOLUNTEERS!
And as time goes on, more and more businesses are jumping into the game.
At the same time, I have noticed an increasing group of voices who complain about, well, everything.
As a child, I was taught, if you can’t be part of the solution, then you may just well be part of the problem. And if you watched Bambi, then you know little Thumper had this to say. “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all.”
Good, solid advice.
I like car shows. I am not looking for people to stop doing them, because of some people. I get it. You have a right to your opinion. You have a right to not go somewhere because you disagree.
But, when you have a problem, I think it is more likely to be heard behind the scenes, rather than the social media illness of “blast first.” I do understand, getting likes. Many years ago, a good friend told me “You aren’t edgy enough.”
If you like a show or a cruise night, don’t just show up, but let others know. Support what you love. And when you see a need for volunteers, perhaps you can jump in. Micro volunteering is a big deal these days.
And to all you shows out there, there are lots of people who see you. See the blood, sweat, and tears you invest in these projects.
If we want younger people to show up, there may be some changes that do need to be made. I think one of them is the showing of respect each other.
In a day and age of “cancel culture” is that how we want it to be in the world of shows and cruises?
Recently, my 18-year-old grandson, made the decision to go to automotive tech school. I have been helping him to get through the process. (In the midst of filling out paperwork, applying, etc he found out that he had his identity stolen.) He also was seeking a job. A number of guys recommended him to an area auto detailer. And more recently, on of the car owners, told him they would give him a sizeable chunk of change for two years.
Car Guys and Gals Are Good People
There are a lot of really good guys and gals out there. Let’s support them along the way, along with the amazing clubs, shows, and businesses that stand behind these car events.
Thumper logic.
To all you event planners, sponsors and businesses, and people with a dream. I salute you!
And let’s enjoy the smell of gasoline and old cars
