The Kiwanis Club of Concord got in one last classic car show this year before deciding to call it quits.
The weekend after Labor Day, the NHTI lawn was graced by Mustangs, Corvettes, Fords, and Studebakers, along with all sorts of modern and antique cars.
The show, the club’s second-largest fundraiser, was an annual event for 39 years, started by longtime member Chris Pappas — who isn’t the same Chris Pappas who is running for U.S. Senate. It only got rained out twice, said club president Ken Georgevits.
However, attendance has declined steadily over the last few years, from a peak of around 325 cars to 146 this year. As the club itself lost membership, the members decided to stop organizing the event due to the logistical strain.
The decision did not come lightly and was not due to money, Georgevits said. As the club itself lost membership, those who remained decided to stop organizing the event due to the logistical strain.
Still, he added, the club remains steadfast in its commitment to helping children.
“We want to especially thank and remember all the sponsors we’ve had over the years,” he said.
The non-partisan, non-denominational group will continue supporting local high schools, Eagle Scouts, NHTI’s pediatric trauma training program and others through service, support, and fellowship.
The club still plans on hosting its largest fundraiser, the annual spring carnival at Everett Arena in Concord.