Somernites Super Cruise takes over Somerset, Kentucky

When you approach Somerset, Ky., the sign on the highway declares that you are entering the “Official Car Cruise Capital of Kentucky.” When it comes to the monthly Somernites Cruise, these people aren’t messing around. It kind of reminds me of a NASCAR event. There are Somernites souvenir trailers, printed color programs, and many displays, activities, and vendors to keep everyone entertained. Oh, and there were lots of cars—1,500 of them according to the P.A. announcer. Somerset’s entire downtown is blocked off for this, and they manage to fill every parking lot and street corner.

History of the Chevrolet Vega - the little car that did everything well

In 1981, my mom had a ’76 Vega Kammback.  I distinctly remember the night during a particularly cold, Omaha winter, when she wanted to come home from her job at Norman’s Shoe Store and the orange wagon wouldn’t start.  Dad and I went out to rescue her, and between the bitter cold wind, darkness, and rage-filled swearing coming out of my dad, I learned to hate the Vega.  At eight years-old, I didn’t know about the car’s reputation, or the recalls, or the safety concerns.  I just knew that the air conditioner wouldn’t cool off in the summer, and it wouldn’t start in the winter.  Of course, now that I’m older, I’ve developed a bit of a soft spot for the Vega.  They were great-looking little cars.  They were actually pretty innovative.  And everyone seemed to have one.  That’s why today we’ll take a look back at “the little car that does everything well.”

Cars are the best medicine at the Lee's Summit Medical Center Car Show

BHo and I were on a car show mission Saturday, and one of the events that we hit was at the Lee’s Summit Medical Center. But we had to take pictures quick, because they were just finishing up the awards when we rolled in.  Luckily, we were early enough to take in the wide-variety of vintage iron that this show had to offer.