Car Shows

Before we all were computer nerds, we were audiophiles; before we were audiophiles, we were motor heads. Such has defined the evolution of our generation. Cars have in the meantime become the pariahs of our time – an appealing, but nevertheless lethal addiction - as we have learned that they contribute to a whole host of social and environmental ills, including the dreaded global warming.

I can still remember growing up here in New Jersey, how Christmas would come twice a year. Once, of course, was when Detroit would roll out their latest models in the fall. These would first appear in pictures in the full-page ads of magazines. The date of unveiling would also be given – a red letter day – on which we would faithfully pledge to undertake our annual pilgrimage to our town’s numerous dealerships in order to drool solemnly over the latest automotive extravagance.

Eventually, we’d begin to see these cars out on the streets. We’d cast long, lingering looks at their taillights fading in the distance. The drivers of same were instantly afforded the status of gods. If we were extremely lucky, this was to be the year when our own fathers would be so moved as to spill their pockets at one of the dealerships.

All this, of course happened before there were such things as interminable commutes, traffic jams and pollution. At least, we weren’t directly aware of such things. All we knew was that this annual publication in sheet metal, certifying the very latest direction in which, we believed, the nation was heading, was as significant as any shuttle flight, moon landing or space walk and the like. It was a harbinger of unlimited optimism success and good fortune, all wrapped up into audacious coach design. In those days, you could actually customize your new car. You could choose the color scheme, the accessories, and even the engine. Our Dads would generally go for the works. Huge engines and convertible tops were the absolute ultimate.

Though, we’ve come to shun cars for a whole host of reasons, our infatuation with them has not yet been totally purged from our blood. Many towns still sponsor car shows. I’d be willing to bet that at least one of them quite within easy traveling distance from your own has a classic or custom car show this weekend. Go to “Car Show News: Classic Auto Events”: http://www.carshownews.com/national/ to find out what’s happening (where and when) in your State.

The mother of all auto shows in our area takes place each year in New York at the Jacob Javits Convention Center. The next one is scheduled for some time in April. It will feature the latest domestic production as well as stunning foreign models. Some of the cars you’ll find there will never be seen on any street. For further information, go to the website: http://www.autoshowny.com/.

Peter Koelliker pkoelliker8@yahoo.com