Murphy – Thunder rolled into downtown Murphy on July 12, and the final outcome exceeded organizers’ expectations.
The Murphy Art Center, along with the Blairsville (Ga.) Cruisers Car Club, provided the community and visitors with a classic car show that brought in more show cars than the 80 that originally signed up. The MAC’s first car show exploded when the classic and late model vehicles just continued to roll into the event which had no shortage of people stopping by to check it all out.
Along with the car show and music, the MAC was selling 36-by-60-inch retired Max Xplosion art panels to raise money for the organization. The panels of art and photography previously displayed on downtown buildings were removed to make way for current ones.
Folks were also buying their chance to win a fabulous red and shiny 2008 Ford Mustang Convertible with a $10 raffle ticket. The winner of the car or $5,000 if they prefer, will be announced at the “Salute to Veterans Car Show” 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, at 290 Farmers Market Way at U.S. 76. Proceeds will help local veterans in need.
Charlie Brown has been with the Blairsville Cruisers for about a decade and owns a few of the classics himself.
“I like them all, but I like Chevrolets the best,” he said at the welcome and information table.
The Blairsville Cruisers Car Club hosts several different yearly events that raise money for the needs of others, including veterans, kids at Christmas time and for scholarships. The weather was sunny and bright as folks appeared to enjoy as well as be amazed at just how many vintage vehicles participated in the show.
Mosroor S., just 14 years old, was one of the judges for the classic rides. He grew up watching the older cars come and go due to his father’s business. The young man will also be receiving a scholarship from the Blairsville Cruisers Car Club.
The event was sponsored by O’Reilly Auto Parts of Murphy. Proceeds from the car show will benefit both nonprofit organizations, the Blairsville Cruisers Car Club as well as the Murphy Art Center.
“Businesses were busier then usual and restaurants were packed during the lunch hours. The weather, mood and vibe all went as smooth as the show did. The event was such a great success and enjoyed by all – so much so that it is being requested to become an annual event in downtown. Word is, we over delivered on quantity and quality,” said Donna Duval, Art Walk director.
David Vanderlaan, founding member of the MAC said with a chuckle, “If our event causes a parking problem, then it’s a success.”
There was no doubt that this first car show at the MAC was a success.
Details: Visit blairsvillecruisers.com.
The winners
Best of Show
1956 Chevy Bel Air – Ed Davis of Blairsville, Ga.
Best GM
1964 Chevy Nova – Don Studdard
Best Ford
1955 Ford Sunliner – Wayne Tanner of Blairsville
Best Mopar
Dodge Viper – Don West of Hayesville
Best Truck - 1951 Chevy 5 Window – Sheryl Huckman of Murphy
Judges Special
1) Ronnie Roberts of Murphy – 2002 Honda S 2000
2) Don Groutte of Murphy – 1966 Austin Healy 3000
3) Pete Van Rossum of Topton – 1964 VW Bus
4) John Hollier of Blairsville – 1970 Studebaker Avanti