July events draw dozens of classic vehicles
By Holly Neumann
Downtown Manawa is attracting dozens of vintage cars, hot rods, trucks and classic vehicles on Friday nights in July.
Located on the corner of Union and S. Bridge Streets, this is the second year that the shows have taken place.
“We have had people from all over the place coming to the show,” show organizer Eugene Much said. “They have even come from as far away as Milwaukee and Kenosha. We know that there are a lot of locals that own some great cars, now we just have to get them here to show them off.”
Sandie Wilz, who is part of the Manawa Revitalization Committee, has been pleased with the turnout this far.
“This is one of our events to bring people to the downtown area on a Friday night,” she said. “It’s a free car show and it is enjoyable to see all the great cars.”
Cars of any types are welcome.
There are classics, hot rods, rat rods and more. Some even as new as a 2014 Dodge Challenger, that Dan and Debby Lucas, of Fremont, brought to show off.
“We always check out all the car shows in the area,” Dan said. “At first we thought this one was a ride, but it is nice to be able to look at all the cars.”
“It’s nice meeting all the people,” Deb said.
John Hauke, of Iola, brought his 1938 Ford Coupe to the show.
“It is just nice to be able to show off your car,” said Hauke. “A lot of people have put a lot of time and efforts into their vehicles. This is a great place to showcase that.”
During the car show, shuttle services are available to take visitors to such places as Smith’s Manawa Steak House, Kegler’s Bowling Center and Cruisin’ In Diner.
“People can come and park their cars and then take the shuttle to go out for dinner,” said Much. “It is a great way to get our whole town involved with this event.”
“Tonight Winemakers Daughter even has ’50s and ’60s music playing,” Melissa Much said.
Even the children seem to be having fun.
Jacob Much, 10, proudly showed off the 2014 Much’s Speed Shop Chopper that he and his dad made together.
“It was a lot of fun,” said Jacob.
Nine-year-old Nolan Hoyord had his eye on a green 1970 Dodge Dart.
“I like Dodges and I like the color,” he said. “Hopefully one day I will own one of these or maybe a Lamborghini instead.”
“This is a classy night,” said Bill Rodgers, who happened to be passing through Manawa. “Only small towns like these have this kind of charm.”
Local resident Dave Lindsay will display some of his collection during the show on July 24.
During July, the Friday Night Car Shows begin at 5 p.m. and awards are given to best of show each night.