Rain, rain, went away for the car show, Saturday

WASHINGTON — Following a rainy morning and early afternoon, the Corn Country Cruisers hosted the classic car enthusiast group’s first car show of the season around Washington Square on Saturday.

“In the classic car business, weather is king,” Former Corn Country Cruiser President Ken Landmeier said. “It was raining just an hour or so before, but we can’t control the weather, so we make the best of it.”

Due to the threat of poor weather, Landmeier said the show had fewer cars than normal, but the event went well overall.

Thanks to the rains receding, guests still enjoyed music, a 50/50 drawing, and prizes as they perused the car show.

According to Landmeier, these shows bring people to Washington from surrounding cities, and when they come, they can enjoy the food for sale from the Washington Y Men or visit one of the many restaurants around the square.

Landmeier sees benefit not only for businesses around the square, but for the show itself and those attending.

“We have a beautiful park and square for this type of event,” he said. “It’s just a good time for people to get out. It’s a good time for people to come down with their friends and look at the cars and talk to their owners.”

Landmeier brings his own 1966 Pontiac GTO to the shows.

“I like the 50s and 60s cars,” he said. “Those cars don’t look alike like they do now. They were all different colors, different color interiors, and different trims. Now, they look like jellybeans on wheels.”

Hopeful for better weather and a better turnout next month, the Corn Country Cruisers will continue to host their car shows the second Saturday of every month like they have for more than 20 years.

For other car enthusiasts interested, Lindmeier says the group meets once a month at different restaurants in the area.

“We’re always looking for new members,” he said. “We do cruises to other attractions and restaurants. It Gives us a chance to get the cars out and put some miles on them and get to know our club members.”

Comments: AnnaMarie.Ward@southeastiowaunion.com