Cruisers rev up their engines in Port Colborne

The Downtown Cruisers Association’s weekly car show in Port Colborne last Thursday revved up its engine for the first time this year.

Organizer Tony Spiteri is “over the moon” with the turnout at opening night.

About 175 cars lined Clarence Street and brought in thousands of people who admired a wide variety of makes and models.

A different theme is scheduled for each week, a format Spiteri said is important when putting together a gathering of automotive appreciation. There are nights dedicated to tractors, imports, hot rods, specific automakers, and more.

Spiteri said everyone has been welcome and will be throughout the season, as the show kicked off its fifth year.

“For this hobby to continue to grow, it needs to be more inclusive,” said Spiteri.

In the past four years, the summer-long event has raised more than $25,000 for a mix of causes, including programs at a local school.

The Port Colborne Optimist Club and the Knights of Columbus will receive donations from the car show this year, said Spiteri.

Each week, a different theme is on the agenda.

Fenwick resident John Burger has been parking one of his unique vehicles every week since the show started, he said, standing next to his 1938 McLaughlinBuick, a Canadian-made car that has some minor differences from the same model manufactured in the U.S., such as its wheels and hubcaps.

The owner of several cars, Burger said he will likely pull in this week with his 1947 Mercury Coupe, and his 1999 Mustang on another date.

He said the weekly occasion is full of surprises and rare vehicles for everyone to appreciate.

“You never know what you’re going to find or see,” said Burger.

“It’s a great experience,” he added.

Devon Germaine, a Sherkston resident, was parked on Clarence Street with his 1999 Chevy Lumina demolition derby vehicle he will be taking to a major competition in Ohio this month.

Even though his ride will likely suffer some damage at the upcoming derby, he takes a lot of pride in it and said he has spent close to $5,000 to get it ready for the big meet.

“I’ve been working on it every night I’ve had off since January,” he said.

This week’s theme will bring in many cars from the 1950s, and starts its engines at 6 p.m. in downtown Port Colborne.

The 18-week gathering concludes in the middle of September with an awards night.