Folks from the Scenic City Cruizers will arrive in style at Chattanooga Market on Sunday, Aug. 30.
Members of the car club will be bringing about 40 hot rods to put on display – ranging from Danny Elder’s 1934 Chevrolet to Eddie Thorne’s 1928 Haulzit to Chase Rice’s 2005 Corvette convertible.
The show will feature a variety of cars – “from Corvettes and Mustangs to great-looking trucks and rat rods,” says Rice, the club’s vice president.
“Everyone loves to check out and take pictures of the cars and motors,” she says. “We even let some of the kids, big and small, have their pictures made in the cars.”
Melissa Siragusa says having auto clubs and private owners share their “babies” with the public is “a great day, obviously, for men, but kids too.”
Women enjoy looking at the cars as well, says Rice, who loves her shiny black convertible.
“I like cars with power,” she explains. “We have several women and couples in the club that have (hot rod) cars. It’s a great hobby to both be involved in. Sometimes it funny to see someone’s face when they ask me, ‘Is that your car?’ and I answer, ‘Yes, sir, it is.'”
Siragusa says owners are there to answer questions and share their enthusiasm for antique and collectible cars.
Rice agrees. “We want to share our passion, love and devotion for our ride,” she says. “We have a united and diverse group of individuals. We emphasize teamwork, trust and respect. We consider ourselves one big family.”
More than just a way to establish relationships among area car enthusiasts, members of the club also devote time to philanthropic efforts.
“We just presented a check for $13,000 to the Community Foundation of Greater Chattanooga for our ‘5 Fallen Heroes Fund’ from a benefit cruise-in. This club is all about giving back to our community,” she says.
The 100-member club hosts a cruise-in every Friday night at the Zaxby’s/old Kmart parking lot on Highway 58.
“We welcome everyone who loves cars to come out and join us,” Rice says.
The market also will include its usual assortment of vendors selling fresh local vegetables, fruit, breads, meats, cheeses, handmade art and jewelry.
Contact Karen Nazor Hill at khill@timesfree press.com or 423-757-6396.
If you go
What: Hot Rod Auto Show at Chattanooga Market
When: 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 30
Where: First Tennessee Pavilion, 1829 Reggie White Blvd.
Admission: Free
Phone: 423-648-2496
Website: Chattanooga Market.com
On the EPB Stage
12:30 p.m. Roxy Randle
2 p.m. Sabrina