LACEY – The sun beat down on Lacey Township High School, but it couldn’t dim the shine of the chrome beauties on display at the Sentimental Cruisers Car Club’s 30th anniversary show, “A Car Culture Showcase.” Gearheads of all ages came out to admire a dazzling array of vehicles, from vintage classics to modern marvels.
The show boasted a diverse lineup that had something for everyone. Gleaming icons of American muscle – Bel Airs and Corvettes – shared space with meticulously restored European imports. Timeless classics like the Model T drew admirers eager to peek into the past, while cutting-edge sports cars promised exhilarating performance. A towering monster truck defied gravity, adding a touch of modern marvel to the nostalgic scene.
Cars ranged from the 1930s to as recently as this year. Many won awards from the club, based on votes cast by visitors.
With hoods popped open, attendees got a closer look at the clean engines and intricate details that make these vehicles so unique. It was a feast for the eyes, a chance to reminisce about bygone eras and appreciate the evolution of automotive design.
Sometimes, it was the rear of the vehicle that stole the spotlight. A prime example was a 1932 Highboy, which captivated onlookers with its unique setup in the back. This classic car featured high-powered audio equipment artfully concealed by a wooden vintage-style toolbox. Adding a personal touch, the toolbox displayed a picture of the owner’s grandparents, cleverly hiding the car’s electronics and providing a nostalgic connection to the past.
“Some people buy the cars in the shape they’re in,” said Jerry Kennedy, Sentimental Cruisers Car Club Committee Member. “Others like to build their own cars.”
According to Kennedy, a significant number of people who enjoy car shows grew up in a particular era and like to see the cars that were popular during that time. There’s a big push to get younger people interested in the cars of yesterday and today.
Many of the Sentimental Cruisers’ Car Club event participants are original members, and their car shows are dedicated to charitable causes. The club rotates its support among six or seven different charities, with the anniversary event benefiting Deborah Hospital.
Looking ahead, the Sentimental Cruisers are gearing up for an event that may attract the younger crowd the group hopes to expose to the world of cars. The Carnival & Classic Cars Extravaganza will be held on July 27 at the Donahue School in Barnegat from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
This event, organized by the Pirrello Family Foundation, “Hot Rod” Mike, and the Sentimental Cruisers, aims to support young Mason Phillips in his battle against T-cell ALL. Diagnosed on March 21, 2024, Mason’s family faces a challenging journey with significant medical expenses.
The extravaganza will blend vintage charm with carnival fun, featuring classic cars, bounce houses, face painting, and delicious treats from food trucks. With over 200 attendees expected, every ticket sold will aid Mason’s fight. Tickets are priced at $10 for adults, $5 for seniors and children aged 2-10, with children under 2 attending for free. Classic car registration on the day will be $20, including two adult tickets.
About The Sentimental Cruisers Car Club
The club’s history traces back to 1994 when Bob Zimmerman, Tommy Davis, and Dave Bourgeous began cruising around Manahawkin in their old cars, eventually meeting Rich Karwecki. They found a regular spot at Joey’s Sweet Shop in Waretown Plaza, where the owner welcomed their gatherings and encouraged them to come back every Sunday evening.
As a result of the growing enthusiasm more people became aware of the fun times where the Waretown Post Office now sits. Other individuals, including John McHale, Ken Flatt, Bob Micki, Tom Engles, Dave Blintliff, and Pat McMahon, decided they’d like to be part of the group. By August 1994, the club had officially formed with about 20 members, eventually expanding to 85 before settling at around 68 members post-COVID.
Even after Joey’s Sweet Shop closed, the club persisted, relocating their cruise nights to Burger King in Lacey Plaza and later to McDonald’s in Berkeley Shopping Plaza on Route 9 N in Bayville. They continue to hold cruise nights there every Friday from April through October.
Besides their weekly gatherings, the Sentimental Cruisers host numerous car shows and cruises throughout the year, supporting local charities and fostering a passion for collector cars and trucks.
