The Show N Shine was a huge success with over 350 pampered and buffed vehicles brought out from under wraps and taking to the roads that led to Chestermere. Event organizers Mike St. Cyr and wife Elaine Smart were delighted with the day’s turnout even though the unplanned gale force moved the organizers to a quick wrap up and early end.
Smart said Alberta Animal Rescue Services (AARCS) along with Pound Rescue will each receive $2000 and $1000 will be donated to the Alberta Bulldogs Association. As well the show is donating $3000 to the Children’s Breakfast Program, Food for Thought. David Duckworth, Manager at Chestermere Safeway, also upped the breakfast program funding with a 50 dollar gift certificate.
“Over the years the Car Show has donated funds in excess of $120,000 to various charities and we are pleased to be able to donate a substantial amount this year, even though the “show day” was brought to any early close by the inclement weather,” said Smart. A born car buff, Smart has always had a passion and taste for wheels. She and her husband also have brought new love into their life through the adoption of 2 rescued dogs from AARCS.
For the next Show N’ Shine in 2014 the Directors are looking at other charities that need support and are waiting to hear from anyone that might need their help. “We really want to help the “Mom” and “Pop”groups, the ones that miss out or get overlooked on funding from the bigger foundations and groups,” said Smart.
The event continues to grow from its roots when the car show was hosted at the West Creek Pub plaza 12 years ago. This year local business owners George Ziwanii and wife Pamela of Gaz Exhibits Inc, who provide rentals for trade shows and events, stepped in to help St. Cyr with set up and tents which made the day move along a lot smoother. St. Cyr said, “These are people who say they will help and are truly there to support you. With the growth of the show I couldn’t have done it without them.” These organizers start in the wee hours of the morning setting up the tents and getting the grounds organized for the day.
Ziwanii’s hobby is a 1969 Chevelle which he has personalized with his own touch; taking it apart and putting it back together bolt by bolt in a labor of love that took 12 years. Wife Pamela, although self admittedly not originally a car enthusiast, says that the years have transformed her into one.
This year again the talents of Nathaniel Milljour of Studio Noir from Calgary were commissioned by the show to design the sharp t-shirts, banner and the flashy tailgate which highlighted sponsorship of the show and was done up by Amazing Signs. “We also gave out key chains and magnets, “said St. Cyr. With over 3000 visitors to the show annually it is a great advertising opportunity for any business said St.Cyr.
To get a hold of the club contact Elaine or Mike at (403) 272-5354 or check out their facebook page under Chestermere Car Club.
