“I was born the day I got my license. When I was a kid, if I wanted to go somewhere and see things, you’d have to get in your car and actually go.”
~ Jay Leno, former host of the “Tonight Show” and well-known for his car collection which, according to reports, is composed of over 200 cars and motorcycles.
By Mary O’KEEFE

We have all heard “mom and apple pie” as the description of the heart of America but the truth is the automobile has played an equally important role. Although the automobile was popular in Germany and France in the 1800s it was Henry Ford and his innovative techniques for mass production that brought the car to everyday Americans in the 1920s. Ever since, “gear heads,” those who love to take apart, fix and fixate on motor vehicles, have been working in yards and garages to keep their precious automobile running.

And it is that love of the motor vehicle – classic, hot rod, motorcycle and creative auto innovations – that will be celebrated on July 2 at the Montrose Car Show. This will be the 16th year that the Hot Rod and Classic Car Show will line the 2200, 2300 and 2400 blocks of Honolulu Avenue in the Montrose Shopping Park.

“We will have approximately 300 cars and 20 motorcycles,” said Dave Maher, one of the show’s organizers.

The announcer during the day will be Bob Beck from Irwindale Speedway. Beck is a well-known announcer in the world of racing. He has announced at several racing events at tracks like Ascot Park, Pomona and Famoso raceways. Vehicles he has built have been highlighted in several articles and books including “Petersen’s Complete Book of Fords.” Known as Hotrod Bob, he has been involved as a driver, builder of sports cars, racer and drag racer.

On Sunday, there will be many different types of vehicles to view and dream about at the Montrose Car Show. Guests to the free event will see examples from the 1920s to the 1950s and ’60s – tailfins and all. The owners of the vehicles are always nearby to answer any questions concerning their vehicles and for those who are looking to purchase and restore they will share their wisdom on how to get started.

There will also be contests held throughout the day to vote on categories like the most exotic, or Jack the Barber’s Favorite Hot Rod.

Last year’s event was one of the best attended. Those walking along Honolulu Avenue saw Model As and 1957 Chevys, but they also got to see some unusual vehicles like a 1933 Helms Bakery truck that had been refurbished to look like it did back in the day of its deliveries but had a bit of a surprise under the hood – it was actually a hotrod.

“The show is put together by the Early Rodders, Road Kings and Trompers car clubs,” Maher said.

Either before or after looking at the cars, shoppers can head over to the Harvest Market, which will be held on the east end of the avenue.

  Mary Okeefe