Car show raises money for Miracle Network

Corvettes are Brandon Peek's favorite. But on Aug. 23, he covetously eyed the orange 1969 Chevrolet Chevelle SS that Tony Gonzalez of St. George displayed at the third Children's Miracle Network car show at the Goose Creek Wal-Mart on U.S. Highway 176.

"I would see myself in the SS," a muscle car with a 396-cubic-inch engine generating 350 hp, Peek said. The 14-year-old Givhans native, a show judge, also is the network's 2006 "Champion Child."

His participation is indicative not only of the Goose Creek event, but of many monthly and yearly "cruise ins" and car festivals in the Charleston area that have ties to charitable causes. Proceeds in this case go to the Medical University of South Carolina Children's Hospital.

At other shows, funds are collected for food banks, camps for cancer patients and school auto restoration shops among other charitable, nonprofit and educational groups. Sometimes, like with Peek, the people being helped by the fundraiser take part in the events.

Despite a slow economy, car shows remain popular with participants and spectators alike. "We are currently at 75 (vehicles), up 20 from last year," organizer Jim Morrell said toward the middle of the show.

"We had a really large turnout of Mustangs," he said. The event had aclub participation trophy for 2008.

"I think that created competition there."

Car enthusiasts reclined in lawn chairs as a disc jockey spun classic recordings, such as the "Convoy" trucker song from the 1970s.

Vehicles ranged from vintage models, such as a 1929 Ford Model A, to the modern 2008 Ford Mustang GT. Mike Quinn of North Charleston showcased a customized PT Cruiser with 145,000 miles that he's driven to the four corners of the continental United States.

Reach Jim Parker at 937-5542 or jparker@postandcourier.com.