A magnificent evening with near-perfect temperatures resulted in a spectacular turnout of custom and classic cars and hot rods. An even greater number of enthusiasts and admirers and perhaps a few curious folks made it a jam-packed event, in which 25 large pizzas, 450 meatballs and more than 170 bottles of water were consumed in the first hour.
Saying the evening was fun and exciting is a gross understatement as that does not give the event the credit due. The Indiana State Fair may have opened that night, but the cruise-in had its own carnival atmosphere, complete with a carnival-size crowd.
And a festive mass it was. Storytelling, reminiscing and laughter were the sounds heard, as well as an occasional firing up of an engine. The contingent of curious onlookers ranged from small children to senior adults.
The cool hot rods filled the first six rows of parking spaces, with a few parked along the sides of the lot. It was an impressive and diverse showing of cars and trucks: eye-stunning beauties such as a showroom perfect 1935 Auburn to a customized 1959 Mack Truck chassis with a modern Dodge Ram truck bed.
Mustangs ranged from the original 1964 model to present-day ones. Conversely, a nice group of Camaros from 1967 to today were also present. There was also a variety of midsize and full-size sedans and coupes from the 1920s to today.
Many thanks to all of those fine folks for bringing their pride and joys out.
There was even a local celebrity in attendance – at least a celebrity to longtime hot rodders and fans of custom pinstriping – as Bob Keeney, the legend behind Bikini Pinstriping, was on hand. His trademark Bikini signature could and still can be seen on everything from go-carts to race cars. And it wasn’t just a leisurely visit, Bob was put to work by Car Nutz Dan Pfeiffer in customizing a chair.
Thanks to everyone, including sponsors Dant Insurance, Papa John’s Pizza and Beck Service Center, who made it a super evening.