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FORTY FORT — The Wilkes-Barre Wyoming Valley Airport was abuzz on Sunday with the sights and sounds of the 54th Annual Car Show & Flea Market.
Sponsored by the Northeastern Pennsylvania Region of the Antique Automobile Club of America, the event provided more than 350 automobile enthusiasts opportunity to show off vintage vehicles which ranged from foreign sedans to muscle cars to trucks and motorcycles. All arrived in their Sunday best, freshly washed, with an extra coat of wax and a proud owner.
Attendees lauded both the venue and the organizers for making the event a success.
Carmen Altavilla, Exeter, who has been entering his 69 Chevrolet Camaro since 2000, said the event’s move last year to the airport from Luzerne County Community College made a real difference.
He said he participants appreciated the grassy surface, providing a more comfortable environment for participants and attendees alike.
Joining Altavilla on “Camaro Row” was Matthew Klaips, Kingston, who said participants enjoyed not only the cars, but the opportunity to spend time with other automobile enthusiasts.
“Part of the wonderful thing about the day is the people,” he said.
Klaips said he also enjoyed the show being held in conjunction with “Airport Day” at the airport.
“The whole event provides a spirit of nostalgia,” said Klaips. “From historic cars to World War II airplanes, it’s like a journey through history.”
Bernie Boback, 93, can certainly claim a part of that history, having participated in all 54 shows, accompanied by his 1931 Ford Model A Roadster.
A founding member of the organization, his participation reflects not only an affinity for antique cars, but a love for family, with two generations following in his foot steps as a car aficionado.
Son, Ron Boback, and grandson, Ron Boback, Jr., both greatly enjoy a ride in the cream and black Model A or perhaps, the blue and white 1955 Buick special — a relatively “recent” addition obtained 35 years ago.
The senior Boback recalled being simply given the Ford, which was ready for the junk yard.
Originally, he was just going to throw a coat of paint on it and use it to drive around town. Then, its restoration became a mission, and part by part, he restored the entire car.
As Dave and Rosemary Myers, Wilkes-Barre, approached the car, they weren’t surprised by the good work Boback had done.
“He taught our son David auto body over thirty years ago at Wilkes-Barre V0Tech,” said Rosemary Myers, referencing what is now known as the Wilkes-Barre Area Career & Technical Center. “We have always remembered him.”
In a day that seemed to center around not simply of an impressive collection of vehicles, but around family, community and fellowship, Michael Hotz, Beaumont, displayed his 1969 Dodge Cornet, which bore the word “Beginnings,” hoping to encourage attendees with his own faith.
The bright “rally green” car seemed to attract those ready to share both inspiration and information.
Vern Treat, Glen Lyon, who said he enjoys anything with a motor, said it was his first trip to the car show and he thoroughly enjoyed the day.
“There was an unbelievable amount of cars and it exceeded my expectations,” said Treat, “I hope to come back next year.”
Three trophies were awarded in each of 37 classes.
William Eicke, president of the club, said the event benefits a variety of charitable organizations including the Make A Wish foundation and Boy Scout Troop 281, Dallas.