New event started at Packard Proving Grounds

Even though I'm a die-hard Cadillac guy, I have much respect for Packards and the historic Packard Proving Grounds. Check out this new event to be held there this year, and since its being head under the direction of Don Sommer, founder of the Meadow Brook Concours d'Elegance, it's sure to be a winner!

CARS ‘R’ STARS@PPG COMES TO PACKARD PROVING GROUNDS

ORGANIZERS SEEK CARS AND CAR CLUBS FOR JUNE 13 EVENT

Cars ‘R’ Stars @ PPG (at the Packard Proving Grounds) is the name of a new classic car show and celebration created to replace the venerable Carnival of Cars.

Cars ‘R’ Stars @ PPG will take place Sunday, June 13 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the historic Packard Proving Grounds on Van Dyke, south of 23 Mile Road in Shelby Township. New organizers of the beloved automotive show and celebration are a collaboration of the Detroit Chapter of the Veteran Motor Car Club of America, Motor City Packards and the Packard Motor Car Foundation. In addition to the Car Show the celebration will feature a Swap Meet and Car Corral.

Nationally know classic car aficionado Don Sommer, a founder of the Meadow Brook Concours d'Elegance, is bringing his considerable network of contacts to the newly energized event, expected to attract nearly 200 renovated and restored classic autos of every variety.

“We are actively seeking out the participation of car clubs and individual car owners to pre-register and plan to bring their vehicles to the Cars ‘R’ Stars event,” he said. The historic significance of the Packard Proving Grounds makes it an important and ideal setting for a classic car meet and celebration. These newly restored grounds are a piece of Michigan history where the greatest American autos ran their paces and the Arsenal of Democracy was tested.

“The beauty of this event is that everyone is invited to bring their classic vehicle, including car clubs, and enjoy the setting and the camaraderie of fellow automotive lovers.”

Sommer said that the new Cars ‘R’ Stars@PPG is seeking more participation by car clubs, offering preferred club and class parking for pre – registered cars and clubs. He emphasized that all cars from brass and classic models to fifties favorites and muscle cars are welcome.

The organizers of the event encourage participation of exceptional commercial trucks, emergency and military vehicles that compliment the grounds’ association with the Arsenal of Democracy. All other items of transportation are welcome.

Classic auto owners and car clubs are encouraged to register ahead of time for a low fee of $15.

The new organizers are offering a variety of activities including

· The CAR SHOW featuring new static Concours judging and class and club awards
· A SWAP MEET with indoor and outdoor areas and over 200 vendors as well as a special arts and crafts area.
· A CAR CORRAL with a great selection of cars for sale
· Music by DJ

In addition, the public will have the opportunity to tour the beautiful 83 year old Albert Kahn designed Packard Gate Lodge, restored by the Packard Foundation as both a Michigan and National Historic Site. The Lodge is a Tudor Revival style residence that served as the home for the proving grounds manager and his family and features three fireplaces, nine bedrooms, four bathrooms and a multi colored slate roof. There is also a dormitory above the 6,500 sq. foot garage that served as living space for test drivers and engineers. The Lodge and famous entrance gates served as a backdrop for much of Packard’s advertising and symbol for the company. The house will be open free to all Cars ‘R’ Stars visitors.

Walk – in admission to Cars ‘R’ Stars @ PPG on June 13 is just $5 and children under 12 are free.

For information call: Tom Mitchell at 586-247- 5921

or visit any of these web sites:
www.motorcitypackards.com
www.vmccadc.com
www.packardmotorfdn.org