Car Show Gives Economy Boost

Muscle cars, vintage cruisers and plenty of chrome drew spectators from far and wide during this summer’s Classic Car Show.

The first-ever event showcased cars of all types with three shows in June, July and August at the Village Plaza Shopping Mall. It was co-sponsored by Monday Night Car Shows, and the Morton Grove Economic Development Commission in an effort to attract visitors to the village and help stimulate the local economy.

“They were a tremendous success, no doubt about it,” said David Lewis, head of the Economic Development Commission (EDC). “Especially the third show.”

The event “grew progressively” throughout the summer with people all the way from Mchenry to Elmhurst attending. The show started with 50 cars in June, but by the time the third car show rolled around in In fact, space for the last show was so limited they simply couldn’t add any more cars.

The Classic Car Show also helped surrounding businesses attract customers. Prime location at the Village Plaza Shopping Mall, plenty of parking and street visibility were all key factors, which made the event a success.   

“The main thing was to bring people in to Morton Grove,” Lewis said. “With all of our stores and restaurants, people ended up making an evening out of it.”

The event also featured raffles, a K-9 Unit demonstration from the Niles Police Department and an outdoor barbecue.

“Everything that was done was on a volunteer basis,” said John Said, director of the Economic Development Commission. “People like Dave (Lewis) and George (Alpogianis, owner of Kappy’s), those are the folks that really helped make this happen.”

Although both Said and Lewis said it was too early to tell if they’ll continue the event next year, they’re definitely pleased with how this summer’s event turned out.

“My hat’s off to everybody involved in the program. It was a great event, it represented the community very well and our Economic Development Commission is always looking for new ways to promote the business community and this was a great way to do it,” added Said.