Contributed by Ed Sindoni
Working at traffic control on Saturday January 19, you had to know things were going to be difficult. Located in the town square from morning until early afternoon was a festival, which had to to cleared before the classic vehicles would be allowed to being parked in the same area at 2:30. Let’s add to the mix absolutely perfect weather, and about 400 anxious drivers waiting to fill those festival spaces. At 3:30 cars began to move.
One of The Villages’ car clubs, on a rotating basis, is chosen to be the premier club and lead the vehicles to their show spots. This month it was the Model As, and what a fine showing they had.
The Heart of Florida Model A Restorers Club was founded in 2000 by Sandi and Bill McCormick with assistance from Sultana and Don Beckett. You do not necessarily have to own one of the 1928-32 Fords, simply interest in promoting and preserving the cars is enough. Dr. Rick Lakits had on display his rare 1930 Model A Phaeton, of which only 1,100 were produced at the Ontario, Canada plant. Car has been meticulously restored and a AACA National winner. This is but one of his beautiful Model As.
Jim LeSueur is the original owner of this 1964 Corvette Stingray which currently has clocked 48,000 miles. He purchased it on August 11, 1966, from Jim White Chevrolet in Toledo, Ohio using all of the $ he had on him ($13.49) and his 1960 Falcon as a deposit. The 365hp 327 engine was his power choice linked to a four speed transmission, and 411 positraction at the rear. Even today, it remains all stock.
This monthly show attracts many classic cars and hoards of spectators. The surrounding restaurants and food trucks do manage to feed the crowd, and there are plenty of choices. This is a “must see” in the Florida car show world!
Click HERE to see all of the pictures.