By Gerry Ruble, Special to the Observer
The Agassiz-Harrison Lions Club exceeded their expectations with the number of entrants at this year’s annual Street Meet.
This long-standing, family-friendly event attracted 151 vehicles from all parts of the Valley and beyond, including Vancouver, Surrey and Langley. The event took place Sunday at Pioneer Park in Agassiz.
Antique, collector, modified and restored cars and trucks were proudly displayed by their owners, who were only too happy to talk to the visitors about their “babies.” Talk about variety. From a 1914 Model T to a 1970 Shelby Cobra Mustang, there was definitely a car to take your fancy. Among the car show enthusiasts, the Agassiz Lions Street Meet is regarded as one of the premier shows in the area.
Members of the Ford Falcons Club have already committed to bringing their full complement of 65 vehicles to next year’s show.
As usual, the car buffs opened their wallets and their cars to support the many Lions Club efforts. The 50/50 cash raffle alone raised over $400, which will be donated to support the B.C. wildfire victims.
One of the biggest attractions at this show – besides the fantastic vehicles, picnic-perfect food and live music – was the humongous basket raffle. This year, generous friends and businesses from Agassiz to Langley provided more than 55 different prizes. More than $1,000 was raised to support the wildfire victims on this alone.
The most sought-after raffle item came from Agassiz. Longtime Lion supporter Gerry Chappell made a three-foot-tall wooden wishing well, complete with bucket.
Chappell had almost completed this project just prior to his untimely passing. His son Doug and son-in-law Ron combined efforts to finish the project.
The Lions want to thank Chappell’s family for their kindness in their time of sorrow.
“The Lions cannot say thank you enough. Whenever we asked, Gerry provided us with a wishing well, plant stand or toys for kids. The Lions salute you, Gerry. You will be missed in more ways than one,” the club said.
Club president and Street Meet chair Bob Boorman also said he would personally like to thank all those who donated the many items and gift certificates to make the event such a success.
He said he would also like to thank all the Lions who worked tirelessly to fulfill the Lion’s motto – “We serve” – with special mention going to Chris, Sergei and Lorne.
And the trophy winners are:
1st place – Maureen Heide, 1966 Chevy ll, Nova SS
2nd place – John and Elaine Stewart, 1950 Chevy pickup
3rd place – Henry Lehmann of the Klassics Club, 1957 Ford custom
4th place – Barrie and Gloria Regan, 1951 Fargo pickup
5th place – Stan Zink, 1946 Chevy truck
6th place – Barry Whatmough of the Road Iron Club, 1940 Ford coupe
7th place – Tamara and Michael Wimmer, 1965 Ford Mustang
Oldest Car – Steve and Teri Eremenko, 1914 Ford Model T Touring
Best Modified Truck – Bob and Brenda Vanderberg of the P.I.S.R.A. Club, 1941 Chevy pickup
Drivers’ Choice Award – Dave Stevenson of the Shelby Club, 1970 Ford Shelby GT500
Ladies’ Choice Award – Bill and Sherry Crouch of the VCCA Club, 1926 Ford Touring
Lion’s Choice Award – Troy Peters, 1950 Chevy Sport Coupe