Ortonville – Last year, local business owner, David Bonner purchased a 1948 Dodge, hoping to get some cruising time with his family.
Having been a business owner in Ortonville for more than 20 years and a member of the Downtown Development Authority, Bonner is always looking for ways to spruce up the downtown area.
His ?48 Dodge became inspiration for Ortonville’s first super street show, a cruise, to raise money for the DDA.
‘People today want the biggest thing going,? said Bonner.
‘And the biggest thing right now is hot rods and food.?
On Aug. 3, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the DDA will sponsor a cruise type hot rod show, which will be held in downtown Ortonville.
‘I think it’s a great thing for people to come to,? said Bonner.
The proceeds from the event will go toward downtown repair or to help promote the continuation of the Main Street development program.
‘I would like to see the funds go toward repair of the downtown and some renewal projects,? said Bonner.
Anticipating a great showing of hot rod cars, trucks, and motorcycles, Bonner is encouraged the first hot rod show will have a large turn out.
‘I’ve been going to car shows, passing out flyers and talking with the car clubs,? said Bonner.
‘I think a lot of great cars will show up.?
Bonner said there will be room to display up to 150 cars and 50 motorcycles along Church Street, which will be blocked to through traffic up to South Street. Pond Street will also be blocked from Church to Mill streets. Mill will not be closed but parking spaces will be reserved for motorcycle display.
Brandon Fletcher Intermediate, at 300 South St. and the Brandon Library, 304 South St. have agreed to accommodate parking for those who attend the event.
If cruisers show up hungry for food and music , DDA members will be manning a concession stand with hot dogs, bratwurst, sloppy joes, with chips, pop and water. The stand will be situated next to a disc jockey, hired by the DDA, who will be spinning out the 45’s with the toe-twisting music of the 50’s and 60’s.
‘We’re going to have great cooking,? said Bonner.
‘We’re doing it ourselves.?
With an entry fee of $10, all entrants will receive a free lunch as well as dash plaques, which have been sponsored by local business owners and local individuals. Checks should be made payable to Ortonville DDA.
Awards for antique and stock cars from 1900 to 1975, modified makes and models, factory muscle, trucks, and motorcycles will be given at 2:30 p.m.
Bonner said the DDA is looking for at least 22 local volunteers to help direct car line-up, collect entry fees, pass out entry packets, cook food, and monitor parking areas for businesses that will be open on Sunday.
Interested participants and entrants call Dave Bonner (248) 420-4489 or Mary Clark (248) 627-4976.