7^th Annual LaSalle Street Auto Row Show

By Ken Bounds

On August 23, the Friends of LaSalle Street Historic Auto Row held their 7^th Annual car show on LaSalle Street in Aurora.  The theme of this year’s show was a tribute to local area veterans and their families.  Our own Joe Dispensa is President of the group and organized this show in 2009 to help revitalize the street and bring back businesses related to the auto industry.

NIRG members showing their vehicles included Joe Dispensa – ’50 Tudor, Ken Bounds – ’51 Mercury, Tom Buscaglia – ’51 Tudor, Joe Kozmic – ’53 Mercury, Dan Pudelek – ’56 Fordor, John Slobodnik – ’54 Fordor, Ron Steck – ’40 Pickup, and Jeff Trilling – ’52 Pickup.

Despite a few early sprinkles, it was a beautiful day for a show.  About 50 vehicles were present.  Participants were treated to several ceremonies saluting our veterans.  Everyone had a good time and in the end, three of our members received trophies for their vehicles.  Joe Kozmic took home two; best ‘50s vehicle and “widest whitewalls.”  Ron Steck won for best ‘40s vehicle, and Ken Bounds was awarded “best chrome.