Program promotes classic cars in Iola
By Holly Neumann
The Iola Car Show presented its first Iola Classic Auto Rebate (ICAR) to Gordon Ullom and his daughter Haley, of Amherst Junction.
“Under the program, we’re trying to promote the purchase and regular use of classic cars in and around Iola,” said Joe Opperman, marketing director for Iola Car Show. “We see this as a great way to attract people to the community through the theme of classic cars our community is best known for.”
The family completed the application process and was awarded $500 and two years of free winter storage.
“Applying for the rebate was a no brainer,” said Haley. “It gives me a place to store the car, as well as some funds to put into the car for improvements.”
Haley’s interest in old cars developed as soon as she could walk.
“My father began taking me to the car show,” she said. “I like old cars because it has always been something within our family to have an old car. I enjoy what each person does to their own vehicles. They could have a souped up hot rod or a classic original. Each are creative and shows a little about that owner’s personality.”
Together they purchased a purple 1973 Plymouth Satellite that Haley has been using on a regular basis to drive to and from Iola-Scandinavia High School and around the community.
“The price was right,” she said. “And I liked the brand and color of the vehicle. It also gave me a chance to have my own fixer upper car and put my ideas into it.”
Since she has been driving the car to school, it has sparked an interest with fellow students.
“The next day, we had three older cars, including mine,” she said.
“We’re very excited about this,” said Opperman. “It’s really an incentive to encourage others to get in on the fun and attract more of the same to the community. Anyone in the district boundaries who’s recently purchased or is planning to purchase an old car can pick up an application from our office.”