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‘Cruisin’ with the Oldies’ Coming to Downtown Prattville this Sunday, May 23

By Andrew Edwards

Richard Gemette created the idea for the car show, and credits the City of Prattville for its invaluable assistance.

Elmore/Autauga News Staff Writer

If you’re a fan of vintage Chevrolets, Fords, Corvettes, or Mustangs, then you’re not going to want to miss the “Cruisin’ with the Oldies” car show this Sunday from 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. in the grassy area by the Autauga Creek Dam.

This is the inaugural installment for the event. Its creator, Richard Gemette, works right down the street as the owner of Fountain City Nutrition.

Gemette says that the idea for the event came from other cars shows that he’s previously attended, and that his love for them started at an early age.

“I’ve always been a car fanatic, and I go to shows whenever I can,” Gemette said. “The concept behind the idea is that it’s supposed to be laid back – no judges or trophies. We want people to come out, talk to each other, and learn more about these vintage cars.”

In Gemette’s mind, car shows are more than just showing off cool, older designs – it’s an experience.

“It’s art – that’s what it really is. It’s a way to connect kids to our older generations, and it helps that older generation relive something that meant a lot to them,” Gemette said.

Gemette, who has had extensive help putting together the event from the City of Prattville’s Cultural Arts and Special Events office, says that working with the city has truly been a blessing.

“Everyone at the special events office has been wonderful. They’re all friendly people who have helped me coordinate the event, and the partnership that I’ve had with them has just been great all around,” Gamette said.

Gemette says that his goal is to see around 50 cars out on the green space come this Sunday, but that fewer doesn’t mean that there’s any less of a spectacle.

“I’m excited, we’re all excited for Sunday. I want to make this annual event, or maybe even have it several times a year. We encourage everyone to come out and see us,” Gamette said.

The Cruisin’ with the oldies event is free to public. Downtown eateries and shops will be open and there will be vendors on site with snacks and beverages.

Bama Breeze will provide live music for the event.

For more information, contact the Prattville Cultural Arts and Special Events Office at 334-595-0850 or visit prattvilleal.gov.