Our 7th Annual Car Show held on Sunday, May 2, 2021 welcomed 148 entries. Just a few shy of our biggest show in 2019 that had 153 entries. Dennis Gaither of Princeton and his 1958 Chevy Bel Air took home our Best of Show this year. Additionally, the Mayor’s Choice and 40 Judge’s Choice awards were given out.

Our 50/50 pot was an all time high with the winner taking home just under $700.

We have so many Thank You’s to share for the day…

To our SPONSORS– Presenting Sponsors: Sterling Chevrolet, CGH Medical Center, US Bank, Johnson Oil Co.; and additional support from SBM Business Equipment Center, Select Employees Credit Union and Showplace Antiques & Treasures – Without their investment in the community events such as these would not be possible.

We also owe a special thanks to Bradford Supply Co. for the use of their parking lot and Sterling Fence for their contributions.

To our VOLUNTEERS – It takesa small army to make our events run smoothly and they all give so generously of their time. From the advance planning to hands on tasks during the event, our Volunteers are truly at the heart of this event. Special thanks to the employees of Sauk Valley Bank, Mike Sprague – State Farm Agent, Rep. Tony McCombie & Liz, Alderwoman Kaitlyn Ekquist, Mayor Lee, City Manager Scott Shumard, many Main Street Board members & their families and anyone else I’m forgetting – we are so grateful for your willingness to give back to the community through your time and support!

To our PARTNERS– from the 2nd year of our show when we moved to the event’s current location, the Sauk Valley Shifters Car Club have been a great partner in planning with Sterling Main Street. Hosting their annual swap meet in conjunction with our show, providing onsite food, volunteers and their special Rat Rod awards, it’s been a great relationship. Fun Fact —>> Did you know that with the funds the Sauk Valley Shifters raise from their involvement they’re developing a scholarship fund for the trades?

To 3-D Sound Company – I don’t even begin to know how to thank these guys for all they do. They are the car show. The knowledge and professionalism they bring to our event every year and the guidance Dave & crew has provided over the years as we continue to grow our event is priceless!

One of the biggest questions we get is “what do you (Main Street) do with the money we raise.” Well…it goes right back into the downtown and largely for our beautification efforts that everyone gets to enjoy. Our flower baskets will be going up in a few weeks, the tulips and daffodils are just finishing their spring bloom, soon to be replaced by more colorful annuals. Funds raised help with their installation and keeping them watered and looking great all season long. Picnic tables are being ordered for Dale Park. The temporary ones we had down there last summer were a hit and we’ll be putting some much more attractive, functional and permanent ones in place this summer.

I’m sure I’ve forgot some along the way, but I’ve rambled on long enough. So will just say a final thank you to the spectators and community who come out to enjoy the show every year. We’re so glad you’re back!