Jam packed

Classic cars fill every space at Shawano Lake County Park
By: 
Carol Ryczek
Editor

SHAWANO — It was a traffic jam for the ages.

Literally.

Cars of all ages, sizes, designs, color, horsepower and function poured into every available space at the eighth annual Custom and Classics Car Club car show at the Shawano Lake County Park on Sunday.

Fortunately, despite the number of cars pouring into the park, road rage was not to be heard or seen.

Pat Garbelman, outgoing president of the car club, said over 300 cars were expected, and she also expected a lot of satisfaction with the event and the site.

“We get cars from all over northeast Wisconsin,” she said. “Some camp here, some just bring cars. I’ve heard that this is considered one of the best shows in Wisconsin.” The setting—cars tucked into the trees with Shawano Lake as a backdrop is one of the reasons that the show is so popular.

“The park is very well-kept and everyone who works here is awesome,” she said.

The car show is a fundraiser for local charities, Garbelman said. Last year, the event raised about $3,000, which was divided among six different charities. The charities are chosen after the event is a success, she said. Among the previous groups to receive donations are Safe Haven, Shawano Area Matthew 25 and the Shawano County Humane Society, she said.

She added that Shawano Community High School students hold the 50/50 raffle and the local AmVets post sells food, increasing the fundraising value of the show.

For the car enthusiasts, a long table of sponsored trophies is the draw, along with the chance to spend the day comparing notes and discussing their cars. Trophies are awarded in three places, thanks to donations by 26 local businesses.

The 85 club members display their cars but aren’t eligible for trophies.

Club member Al Kuck had not only his car on display — a 1933 Plymouth with more than a few additions — he also had a hand-quilted “portrait” of the car created by his wife, Pam. The purple version of the Plymouth is was listed in the “street rod” class, he said.

Jim Hibbert, Oshkosh, was eligible to win, and was found on the ground in front of his 1973 Chevelle, carefully washing bug remains off of the bumper. Unlike some car enthusiasts, he said he never “trailers” his car but drives it to all events. He said he won Best in Show in Antigo this year.

Rick Rautz, Gillett, was showing his 1968 Camaro convertible, but took time to look around the grounds with his friend, Matthew Wichman, Pulcifer.

“Next year, it will be you,” he told Wichman, as he encouraged him to get a car of his own to show.

For more information about the Custom and Classics Car Club, email pgarbelman@gmail.com.

cryczek@newmedia-wi.com