Classic Cars for Classic Seniors - A trip down memory lane in support of Lonesome Pine School and Heritage Center

Residents of The Laurels Retirement and Assisted Living Home in Norton joined staff and family members for the 2nd annual Classic Cars for Classic Seniors Show and Parade on Saturday, June 19. Drivers from Kingsport, Big Stone Gap, Lebanon and all points in between came together to show support for the seniors.

Residents lined the driveway, waving as drivers steered their classic cars along the parade route. Songs of yesteryear from artists like Roy Orbison, Peggy Lee played over the sound system as poodle-skirted staff provided fresh popcorn and registered votes for top cars.

The event was co-sponsored by the Dan’l Boone Region Antique Automobile Club of America and registration donations help support the Lonesome Pine School and Heritage Center (LPSHC.)

The LPSHC is a renovated Sears and Roebuck home turned museum in Big Stone Gap which houses thousands of historical images, books, documents, and memorabilia of the people and places of primarily Wise County.

Cheryl Henry, Executive Director of The Laurels, thanked everyone for coming and for bringing a smile to the resident’s faces. “We’re always looking for engaging activities for our residents, and this has been a very hard year for us all.  I must say our residents have been troopers through this time and they deserve the best,” she said. “Seeing these cars bring back a lot of memories for them and it’s a fun event to add beyond our other offerings.”

She also thanked the following for offering their support in making the day happen, Pepsi of Norton, photographer Bonnie Aker, Sturgill Funeral Home, FitCon Graphics, and the Dan’l Boone Region Automobile Club

Drivers were treated to Moon Pies and R.C. colas and everyone had the opportunity to enjoy a 1950’s themed lunch after the show.

“This is tremendous,” said Garnett Gilliam The Laurel’s resident, area historian, and founder of the Lonesome Pine School and Heritage Center. “It gets better every year and it’s good to see the turnout.”

Winners took home trophies and the satisfaction that comes from supporting area seniors with a trip down memory lane. Winners were:

The Lonesome Pine School and Heritage Winner:  Cliff Hare, 1950 Ford Coupe

Dan’l Boone Region Car Club Winner: Scott Napier, 69 Mercury Cougar

The Laurels’ Resident Choice Winner: Carolyn South, 56 Chevy

The Laurels’ Staff Choice Winner: Stacy Potter, 57 Chevy Wagon

Best of Show: Ronald Dotson, 57 Thunderbird

PHOTOS BY BONNIE AKER