Gear Heads Assemble for Redlands Car Show

There’s something to be said about a classic car, sun reflecting off polished chrome and engines bared for admirers to see. It’s a throwback to a time and age that’s still to this day adored, and this era was honored last weekend with a car show event in Redlands. The car show, which was located in the Citrus Plaza parking lot, was small and personal, featuring around 10 cars and open to the public; individuals were invited to enter their own hot rods, customs, and motorcycles. The event also featured a raffle, games, music, and the convenience of shopping centers around. Event coordinator Rodger Norris handled the event’s music and featured a few of his own toys. He and his company, Hot Rod Heaven Entertainment, put on a number of car shows in various cities throughout the year, inviting those who have a passion for restoration, collecting, or even just viewing to attend and participate. Among the participants was the Cruisers for Christ Car Club, a small but flowering organization that performs community outreach with classic car shows and through the church, with members hailing from throughout the Inland Empire. Vernon McDowell, one of the members who often comes to these events with one of his many cars, featured his 1957 Chevrolet—a car that on its own has won over 20 awards. “It’s for the kids,” he said. He felt introducing a modern and exciting hobby such as classic car restoration and shows keep children busy and focused, along with providing support from the local churches. Throughout the show, many people came and filled out forms to have their own cars showcased. The traffic flow of people shopping or enjoying a Sunday out on the town remained steady as they stopped and looked around at the displays and the conversation, much of which was centered on planning for the next upcoming show.