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The members of the Little Detroit Chapter of the Antique Automobile Club of America have a common passion - restoring and appreciating classic cars.
The chapter, which was formed 8 years ago, meets monthly and participates in tours and events in the area. Members hail from across the foothills, said Club President Jerry Morrow.
"As a chapter we take part in local and national shows as well as providing community service and taking part in Veterans parades," said club member and Past President Gary Barnett. "It's a matter of satisfaction for the members to keep the history of the automobile going."
They aren't alone in their thinking. National Collector Car Appreciation Day is held annually, and this year will be celebrated on July 10. The event is sponsored by the SEMA Action Network and exists to raise awareness of the vital role automotive restoration and collection plays in American Society.
America's love affair with the automobile is long, members say. And it's one shared by both men and women, said club member Kathie Nowakowski.
"This is all we've really ever done," she said of car restoration with her husband, Joe. "This is what he was doing when I met him."
The Nowakowskis own several classic cars, including a restored 1955 T-Bird, which is a clone of the car the couple rode in while dating and took on their honeymoon in 1959.
"We don't have anything new," Kathie laughed.
The T-Bird has always been Kathie's favorite. Their original car was sold when their first child was born, and it was always one she said she'd own again if she had the chance.
Car restoration is labor of love, Morrow said. If you are for a classic car, it's cheaper to buy one that someone else has already restored.
"Owning a classic car brings back memories," Morrow said. "You usually want to own the vehicle you grew up with or what you always wanted to buy when you were younger."
New members of the Little Detroit Chapter are welcome. There are no annual dues. More information can be found at http://gsmr.aaca.com/.
