Americans love their cars. Personal vehicles are statements of individualism, free range and personal expression all wrapped into one. It seems like the most ardent enthusiasts of these modern machines would steer their affections more toward home-grown brands--not their counterparts overseas.
Fact is, some of the most dedicated vehicular fan bases are quite happy fawning over cars that were built half a world away from Motor City. For a local case in point, we have the proud members of VESI--the Volkswagen Enthusiasts of Southeast Idaho.
Magazine staffers had the chance to meet up with the car club this spring for a photo shoot by the river. Bug by bug, beetle by beetle, area vee-dubbers rolled into the parking lot to talk tech, swap stories and plan for their upcoming summer on the road.
Even in the chilly tail end of April, club members were also busy making their preliminary plans for their forthcoming VW “Invasion” car show, set for Aug. 4 at Tautphaus Park.
The car show is hosted by VESI in conjunction with the club's biggest sponsor, Wackerli VW. The Saturday festivities will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Taupthaus Park Hockey Shelter.
Spectators can expect to encounter a wide variety of Volkswagen Beetles, Buses, Ghias and Type3s from the '50s, '60s and '70s as well as newer, water-cooled models.
According to event organizers, you even get to vote for your favorite VW in the Peoples Choice contest.
Along with the cars, great food and raffle prizes will also be available.
Best of all, the occasion is set up to benefit a great cause. Any proceeds from the raffle tickets will be donated to the Idaho Food Bank. If you do not purchase a ticket, but would like to contribute, you may donate non-perishable food items in designated bins.
For inquiries, check out the group's Facebook page at www.facebook.com/VESI.idaho.
