COLUMBIA CITY, Ind. – Downtown Columbia City came alive on Saturday, August 2, as the Columbia City Lions Club, in partnership with Columbia City Connect, hosted the Wheels of Whitley County Car Show. The afternoon opened with a presentation of the nation’s flag, welcoming remarks from Mayor Ryan Daniel, prayer, and a stirring performance of the National Anthem by Mandy Blanton.
Blessed with beautiful weather, the event brought together car owners and enthusiasts who share a passion for classic cars, trucks, and community fellowship.
“Bottom line, the Good Lord blessed us with the opportunity to do something we all enjoy—we talk, we drive, and we compare cars, trucks, and more,” said Co-Chair Doug Clark. “To everyone who participated in the Wheels of Whitley County Car Show, my heartfelt thanks. Your involvement made the event a success.”
One of the day’s biggest highlights was the fundraising effort for Honor Flight Northeast Indiana, a nonprofit organization that transports veterans to Washington, D.C. to visit the memorials dedicated to their service. Thanks to registrations, donations, and the generosity of the Columbia City automotive community, $2,222 was raised for Honor Flight.
“This is such a deserving organization,” Clark noted. “I can’t think of a more fitting cause than supporting our veterans.”
The event’s success was made possible through the efforts of many community partners. The Columbia City Lions Club provided primary funding for the show, with support from fellow Lions Clubs in Larwill, Tri-Lakes, Arcola, and Churubusco. Columbia City Connect contributed event funding and led social media promotion to help draw crowds downtown. Scouting America Troop 84 and Pack 3082, the Columbia City Police Department, and numerous volunteers also played key roles.
Special thanks were extended to individuals and groups whose dedication helped bring the event together, including Jo and Mike Robertson, Nick McQueen, Aaron Hall, Sean Raleigh, Jordan Esterline, Jennifer Neill, Alan Parr, and many others who volunteered time, resources, and expertise.
Clark also praised his wife for her tireless behind-the-scenes efforts: “You dedicated more hours to the success of this event than any other individual. Even after 49 years, you continue to astonish me.”
Looking ahead, organizers pledged to continue improving the experience for car owners and visitors. “Yes, we had challenges, but with feedback from participants, next year’s Wheels of Whitley County Car Show will be even better,” Clark said.
The event closed with deep appreciation for the car owners who proudly registered their vehicles and the community members who spent the afternoon celebrating downtown.
“Most of all, I salute the car owners and enthusiasts,” Clark said. “You’ve invested in your passion and shared it with the public. I hope you’ll join us again for the next Wheels of Whitley County Car Show.”
