Classic Car Show Celebrates 25th Year
Duane Watson and Mayor Trish Herrera Spencer at the 2017 Classic Car Show
Registration for the 25th Annual Downtown Alameda Classic Car Show is now open. The show takes place October 13, 2018.
Lee Auto Supply says good-bye; Classic Car Show continues!
After 60 years on Park Street, the World Famous Lee Auto Supply located at 1525 Park Street will be closing its doors on Saturday, April 28, 2018. A retirement sale is now in progress and so are plans for the Silver Anniversary Celebration of the annual Downtown Alameda Classic Car Show that Lee Auto Supply owner Duane Watson founded on Park Street.
When Duane took over the business from his father in 1986, it was not only with a passion for cars but also a passion for the customers and the business community. Duane has always valued customer focus, team effort, attention to detail, integrity, honesty, and pride. These qualities are also shared by the small but dedicated staff as they welcomed each and every visitor with a friendly smile.
“It has been a great run. We thank you all for the support and the great friends we’ve made over the years,” states Duane upon reflection of his time at Lee Auto Supply.
Duane has been a positive force in Downtown Alameda over the years. In recognition of all that he has done for the downtown district, Duane has been the recipient of the Downtown Alameda Business Association’s “2017 Member of the Year” award and the “2016 President’s Award.” As examples of the many ways he has contributed to the success of the downtown district, Duane served on the board of the Downtown Association for 24 years and he has delighted thousands of Alameda children by playing Santa during the holiday season.
Of all of the wonderful things that Duane has done for the district, perhaps the most well-known is the Classic Car Show he created for Park Street. Duane presided over the car show committee for 24 super-charged years and he revved up car enthusiasts from all around the East Bay with this annual family-friendly event.
With Duane’s departure, where does that leave the Classic Car Show? Janet Magleby, Executive Director of the Downtown Alameda Business Association, enthusiastically answers, “We’ll be celebrating the Silver Anniversary of this beloved downtown event with Duane’s blessing.”
The event is set for Saturday, October 13. A new committee is being headed up by Downtown Association staff along with Steve Pedone (founder of Alameda Point Concours d’Elegance), Sgt. Ryan DeRespini (Alameda Police Department), and Benedetto Ratto (member of the Alameda Crankers Car Club). Additionally, a new event poster will be unveiled and, for the first time, registration will be open to classic cars from the late 70s and early 80s.
“We hope our volunteers, sponsors, attendees, and car registrants will all plan on participating this year in honor of Duane and his many years of service to our historic downtown district,” adds Janet. “The Downtown Association, its staff, Board, and committee members are grateful for all that Duane has contributed and wish him all the very best.”
For information about attending the event or to enter your car, go to www.DowntownAlameda.com/Classic-Car-Show.