Shrine Club’s 1st Car Show Draws Crowd

Under clear skies on a beautiful, cool fall day, the LaSalle Shrine Club held its 1st annual Car Show on Saturday, Oct. 17, at the Jena Skating Rink on Edwards Street, with all proceeds benefiting the Shriners’ mission of helping children.

Organizers had 25 vehicles confirmed in the days leading up to the event, but the final count far exceeded that, with 42 vehicles entered. Cars and trucks lined the grounds in four categories.

Registration opened at 7:30 a.m., with vehicles in place by mid-morning as a large crowd turned out to stroll the rows, admire the chrome, talk shop with owners and enjoy food by vendors. Admission was free, and donations were accepted throughout the day for the Shriners.

The LaSalle Shrine Club expressed its appreciation to O’Reilly Auto Parts for helping bring the car show together, as well as to all the sponsors. Club members also thanked the community for the strong turnout in support of the Shriners’ work on behalf of children.

With a successful first year in the books, the Shrine Club hopes to make the car show an annual tradition in Jena.

Winners announced:

Best of Show: Ellis Erwin O’Reilly’s Choice: Carla Arthurs People’s Choice: Raymond Smith Shriners’ Choice: Donnie Cooper Classic Cars (Pre-1980): 1st Donnie Cooper; 2nd Mike Beagon; 3rd WD Thompson Hot Rod (Pre-1999): 1st Matt Wilkerson; 2nd Dixie Bardwell; 3rd Larry Courtney Classic Trucks (Pre-1980): 1st Raymond Smith; 2nd Lee Farris; 3rd Lemar Brown Modern (2000 & Newer): 1st Chris Coleman; 2nd Jessica Greer; 3rd JD Coon