Manhattan Car Club Cruise Nights Back After Weather Delay

MANHATTAN, IL — Poor weather delayed the second leg of Manhattan Car Club's 19th annual Cruise Nights July 12. But, like so many many phoenixes rising above the fray, dozens of classic cars' chrome shined on in the sun July 19 at Laraway Lanes, 1009 W. Laraway Road in New Lenox.

Approximately 136 classic cars were on display, according to MCC President John Partilla. Phillips Chevrolet in Frankfort sponsored the event. In addition to the sea of vintage vehicles, MCC held a 50-50 raffle, featured a DJ spinning classic tunes and offered lessons to children on tools at its "College of Knowledge" station led by MCC member Bryon Ruetten.

There are about 30 members in MCC, Partilla said. While Cruise Nights only lasts during the summer, the group meets once a month to travel around the area, showing off their prized rides and taking in the sights of other car shows that may be happening.

Cruise Nights was the second of three shows for this year's event; the first was held June 14 and was sponsored by Currie Motors Ford of Frankfort, and the third is scheduled for Aug. 9 and will be sponsored by Shockwave Customs, also of Frankfort.

Winners from this show included:

Phillips Chevrolet Picks

• 1st Place - Joe Garofalo, of Mokena, 1971 Chevy Monte Carlo
• 2nd Place - Mike D'Amico, of Mokena, 1969 Chevy Camaro
• 3rd Place - Bob Phillips, of Coal City, 1955 Chevy

MCC Club Pick

• Bob Jacovec, of Coal City, 1940 Chevy "Woody" Station Wagon

Gina's Teardrop Cafe Pick

• Tom O'Connor, of New Lenox, 1955 Chevy Bel Air

More information about MCC can be found on the group's Facebook page here.