For Dave and Chris Williams working on their 1930 Ford Model A is a chance for them to do a project together. And the car shows they participate in are a way to socialize and meet new people.
The Renton couple has spent countless hours and much more money over 8 1/2 years to restore the car to its former glory with some added perks and, of course, its cool purple finish. They drive the Model A three or four times a week in the summer and clean it just as many times, if not more.
Last year the Williamses participated in 21 car shows. This Sunday, they will participate in yet another one: the Return to Renton Car Show.
About 300 to 400 cars are expected at the 21st annual event.
The show will take over downtown with street closures. They begin east of Morris Avenue South on South Third and stops at Main Avenue South on South Third Street. Closures affect the cross streets from South Fourth Street to South Second Street.
There will be many types of vehicles to see from hot rods to European cars to muscle cars and low riders.
What makes all the work the Williamses put into their car worth it, are the “thumbs up” they get from car show attendees.
“I really enjoy that because as soon as they come look at the car they just smile as they walk around it and think, ‘oh my gosh this old 1930’,” said Chris Williams.
She’s supportive of the family hobby, along with her grandson Bailey. Working on the car has been a family affair.
“Every nut, bolt and screw in there her and I have touched,” said Dave Williams.
Chris and Dave graduated from Renton High School. They call themselves Renton people dedicated to supporting the community.
Dave has been on the planning committee for the show for the past three years.
Proceeds from the event support the Renton Police Department Youth Programs. Last year about $12,000 was raised.
There are about 20 categories to place from the serious and technical to the fun and whimsical. Every judge has a bias, said the Williamses, but the possibility of a trophy is not why they participate year after year.
“The fun part is being able to get (the car) out of the house and drive it and visit with people,” said Dave Williams.
“If you get a trophy, that’s kind of a bonus.”
RETURN TO RENTON CAR SHOW
WHAT: A car show with food and retail vendors in the heart of downtown Renton.
WHEN: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., Sunday
WHERE: Street closure begins east of Morris Ave South on South Third Street and stops at Main Avenue South on South Third Street. Closures affect the cross streets from South Fourth Street to South Second Street.
COST: Registration is $20 per vehicle
MORE INFO: Visit www.gorenton.com/play/returntorentoncarshow
