According to Suther, the location is one of the reasons so many people and classic cars have shown up for the weekly events.
Mike Krimm, Dairy Creme co-owner and Suther’s brother, said their location also is perfect for cruise-in attendees because they enjoy the dining room and the fact that it can accommodate more people. “We have a larger parking lot, and there are a lot of people coming to look at the cars,” he said. “I’ve seen cars ranging from the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s to newer cars, and there are all types out here.”
In fact, according to Lewis, the Ohio Cruisers’ events include every classic car imaginable, “from a 1923 Ford T-Bucket Roadster to the popular 1970s- era Chevrolet Chevelles.”
And for Krimm and Suther, the cruise-in is not just attracting fans of vintage automobiles; it’s really helped kick up their summer business on Thursday nights during the events, which are held from 5 to 8:30 p.m.
“From the car owners to the curious onlookers, we’ve been swamped. We’re selling everything from hamburgers and hot dogs to soft pretzels and ice cream sundaes,” said Suther. “It’s been a big boost for business — and a lot of fun.”
The Ohio Cruisers Car Club includes members from Vandalia, Tipp City, West Milton, Englewood, Brookville, Huber Heights, Dayton and other parts of the region. They pay no dues and welcome non-members to bring their cars to the weekly cruise- in.
“It’s been great for us,” said Krimm. “We hope it gives people in Vandalia something fun to do on Thursday nights. We’ve had nothing but good feedback so far.
The cruise-in also offers a boost to local charities, such as the Vandalia Food Pantry. All proceeds from a weekly 50-50 drawing are donated to outreach projects for the needy in the area. The events will continue through October, weather permitting, and will begin again in May. The Airline Dairy Creme is at 224 N. Dixie Drive. For more information, call (937) 898-3100.
Contact this writer at banspach@ymail.com.
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