Participated in the Mopar Happening at the Boone County Fairgrounds. It was a nice, sunny day, but dangerously hot, with a heat index around 105°.

They had a good turnout, with 262 cars registered, and quite a few spectators in spite of the high heat. I took a lot of photos, but due to the heat and my medical issues I didn’t make it all the way around the show to see all the vehicles.

Talked to a number of nice show participants, including a fire inspector from Iowa, a retired Chicago PD officer, an active-duty Chicago PD officer, and another gentleman who I believe was also involved in some way with law enforcement.

Also talked to quite a few spectators, answering questions and generally just “shooting the breeze.” One of the spectators remembered me and my other car from a recent show at Sophia’s Restaurant in Roscoe.

The biggest surprise came when I heard my name called at the awards ceremony at the end of the day. My car received the 2nd place award in its class! The class was “special interest,” and it was up against the fire inspector’s car (3rd place), two immaculate Chicago PD cars, a couple miscellaneous cars and truck, and a restored/modified school bus (1st place). Yes, that’s right: I lost out to a school bus! But I have to agree with the choice; the bus was gorgeous! And very unique.

All in all, in spite of the difficulties getting to the show and the dangerous temperature once there, it was a very enjoyable day. I’m glad I went.

Click on the picture to see more photos from the event.