Car show attendees brave the rain to bring community together
FAIRVIEW TWP — A poor weather forecast deterred most from attending a car show at Holly Ridge Banquet & Event Hall, but not all.
A dozen or so attendees, and family and friends of event hall owners Brian and Tracy Hesidence, brought a handful of vehicles to the event hall’s parking lot on Sunday, June 15.
Brian Hesidence said that plenty more had originally planned to attend, but were scared off by the rain.
“Last year, we had cars lining both sides of the grass,” he said while gesturing to an open plot of land next to the event hall. “The rain just scared everyone off.”
Some of the cars brought to the event include a 1966 Ford Mustang Fastback, a 1972 Dodge Dart Swinger and a newer Ford Shelby GT500. Many of those who brought vehicles left their show cars at home due to the weather.
The car show was previously scheduled for Sunday, June 8, but was already postponed a week due to the weather. This time, the Hesidences decided to move forward with the event, rain or shine.
Regardless of looming clouds, the attendees all chatted about their cars and their lives to one another, gathering underneath the carport outside the hall in chairs. They drank soft drinks and ate hot dogs and chips, which were provided by the hall for free.
Brian Hesidence said one of his goals was to make the entire event free for both vehicle owners and spectators. A donation jar was left near the food, but was entirely optional.
“We’re trying to give back to the community,” he said. “It’s not always about the money.”
Brian Hesidence said someone told him that they registered online and paid a fee, despite the event being free. He said he was disappointed that someone tried to use his event as an opportunity to scam people.
The Hesidences said they will be hosting another car show at the hall this fall and are aiming for either late August or early September.
“We haven’t found a date yet, we’re trying to work around Labor Day,” Tracy Hesidence explained.
The event hall is at 222 Holly Road, Fairview Township. More information on the next show will be shared through the hall’s Facebook page.
