Revving Up for a Cause: Classic Car Show Drives Support for Gillette Children's

Canterbury Park in Shakopee, Minnesota, is set to host a unique event this weekend – a classic car show that will not only showcase the beauty and power of vintage automobiles but also raise funds for a worthy cause. The 10,000 Lakes Concours d'Elegance, a premier classic car showcase, will take place on the track's infield, featuring over one hundred classic cars, all in the name of supporting Gillette Children's, a renowned healthcare facility in St. Paul.

Horsepower for a Heartfelt Mission

Celebrating Automotive Elegance

The 10,000 Lakes Concours d'Elegance is a celebration of automotive elegance, where classic car enthusiasts and aficionados gather to admire the timeless beauty and craftsmanship of these vintage vehicles. From sleek sports cars to iconic American muscle, the event promises to be a visual feast for car lovers. The show will feature a diverse array of classic cars, each with its own unique story and history, showcasing the evolution of automotive design and engineering over the decades.

Driving Support for Gillette Children's

But this event is more than just a display of automotive excellence; it's a platform to support a worthy cause. All proceeds from the 10,000 Lakes Concours d'Elegance will benefit Gillette Children's, a renowned healthcare facility that provides specialized care for children and young adults with complex medical conditions. As Steven Bariteau, a representative from Gillette Children's, explains, "We serve people from all around the country, every county here in the state of Minnesota, and from several different countries around the world. The resources the community gives back to us, including from the 10,000 Lakes Concours, are very important to help do what we need to do to help these kids and families."

A Community-Driven Effort

The 10,000 Lakes Concours d'Elegance is a testament to the power of community involvement and the impact that can be made when people come together for a common cause. By leveraging the passion and enthusiasm of classic car enthusiasts, the event organizers have created a unique platform to raise funds and awareness for Gillette Children's, a healthcare facility that plays a vital role in the lives of countless families across the region and beyond.

A Celebration of Automotive Heritage and Compassion

This weekend's classic car show at Canterbury Park promises to be a captivating event that blends the beauty and history of vintage automobiles with the heartwarming mission of supporting Gillette Children's. As visitors stroll through the infield, they will not only be transported back in time but also have the opportunity to contribute to a cause that makes a tangible difference in the lives of children and their families. It's a celebration of automotive heritage and compassion, where the power of these classic cars is harnessed to drive positive change in the community.

Dorchester Park's Classic Car Extravaganza Captivates Crowds

The annual Dorchester Park Association classic car show was a resounding success, drawing in large crowds on a sun-drenched Sunday afternoon. The event, held in the park's picturesque Adams Street "bowl," showcased an impressive array of over 70 vintage and classic automobiles, including several rare and unique models that captivated the attendees.

Unveiling the Automotive Gems of Dorchester Park

A Rare Woodie Steals the Spotlight

The highlight of the show was undoubtedly the presence of a stunning 1941 "Woodie" Mercury, owned by long-time participant Paul Bates. This model, with its distinctive maple wood exterior and interior, is now considered a rarity, with only 2,600 units produced that year. Bates proudly displayed his well-preserved treasure, boasting that it "drives as good as it looks."The Woodie's timeless elegance and impeccable condition drew admiring glances from the crowd, who marveled at the craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into its restoration. The car's bright yellow finish and gleaming wood panels were a testament to the owner's dedication and passion for preserving automotive history.

Mustang Mach 1: A Muscle Car Icon

Alongside the rare Woodie, the show also featured a stunning Mustang Mach 1, a true icon of the muscle car era. This high-performance variant of the legendary Ford Mustang captivated the audience with its sleek lines, powerful engine, and distinctive styling cues. The Mach 1's presence at the event served as a reminder of the enduring appeal of American muscle cars and their ability to capture the hearts of automotive enthusiasts.

A Diverse Showcase of Automotive Gems

The Dorchester Park classic car show was not just a display of rare and unique models; it also featured a diverse array of vintage and classic automobiles, each with its own story and appeal. From gleaming convertibles to meticulously restored sedans, the event offered a visual feast for car enthusiasts, allowing them to admire the craftsmanship, design, and engineering that went into these timeless vehicles.The organizers of the event, including Michael Malden, Lisa Ahern, and Suzanne Spargo, were thrilled with the turnout, which remained steady throughout the day, from the 10 a.m. opening to the 2 p.m. closing. The presence of musicians from the Boston School of Musical Arts, the Lower Mills Library, and a kite-flying enthusiast on the ball fields added to the festive atmosphere, creating a truly memorable experience for all in attendance.

Passing the Torch: Engaging the Next Generation

The Dorchester Park classic car show was not just a celebration of automotive history; it also served as a platform for engaging the next generation of car enthusiasts. One such example was the interaction between Larry Banks and his son Jaylen, as the father explained the intricate workings of a classic car engine to his eager young son.This intergenerational exchange highlighted the importance of passing on the passion for classic cars to the younger generation, ensuring that the legacy of these automotive marvels continues to be celebrated and preserved for years to come. The event's ability to captivate both seasoned enthusiasts and curious onlookers alike underscored its role as a community-driven celebration of automotive heritage.As the sun set on another successful Dorchester Park classic car show, the organizers and attendees alike basked in the glow of a day well spent, surrounded by the timeless beauty and engineering prowess of these beloved automobiles. The event's ability to bring together car enthusiasts, families, and the local community served as a testament to the enduring appeal of classic cars and the power of shared passions to unite and inspire.