Fundraiser Features Classic Cars, Music of the 50s and 60’s And a Menu Reminiscent of ‘Mel’s Diner”

On October 12, 2024, at 6:30 p.m., Greater Hickory Cooperative Christian Ministry will transform Paramount Classic Cars and Trucks, 3030 Falling Creek Road, Hickory, into a party venue that features everything 50s and 60s: great rock and roll music, museum quality cars and trucks, a glimpse back at American Bandstand, a photo booth to remind you of the evening and other fun activities.  Molly Sain, Executive Director of GHCCM explains, “Cruisin’ Down Main will take us back to a time when flat tops, sock hops, and poodle skirts were hip; Marilyn Monroe and James Dean were stars; and Elvis Presley and Fats Domino were singing the hits.  If you are looking for something more current, we also have DJ, Jeff of Moose Entertainment, spinning songs that will get everyone on the dance floor as he plays top dance songs from now and then.  The vibes you’ll feel will challenge your senses from viewing the museum quality classic cars and trucks, eating a great hamburger with all the trimmings, and maybe participating in the Hula Hoop contest or trying your skill at bubble gum blowing. We invite you to join us as you support GHCCM to continue to help those in need in our community.”

As guests arrive at Paramount Classic Cars and Trucks, they will be greeted by Sh Boom, an A Cappella vocal group, singing the Doo Wop music from the era of the Fabulous Fifties.  The group formed in Asheville, NC, and has been entertaining audiences of all ages since 2012. The Doo Wop music originated in Philadelphia in the early fifties with a bunch of young men standing on a street corner making up melodies and harmonizing as they went.

A time warp hallway will move guests back in time and upon entering the venue, a live band will be playing songs like Blueberry Hill, Johnny Be Good, Heartbreak Hotel and more.  Step back in time with our Mel’s Diner-inspired buffet! Savor juicy, delicious burgers and veggie burgers with a mouthwatering selection of classic toppings and signature sauces. Pair your burger with our crisp cold bean salad and creamy Southern potato salad for a true taste of nostalgia. Don’t forget to save room for dessert—a warm, cinnamon-spiced apple donut and a classic ice cream float to sweeten your trip down memory lane.

As you walk into Paramount Classic Cars and Trucks, you are immediately surrounded by the sights and sounds of America’s past. Paramount’s collection of cars includes vehicles dating back as far as the 1920s. It offers a unique inventory of classic, American muscle, and exotic performance cars including famous cars such as James Dean’s Porsche Spyder and the Trans Am featured in the Dukes of Hazzard TV show.  Situated in a 120,000 square foot facility, Paramount Classic Cars and Trucks offers a full array of services including sales, consignments, complete restorations, engine and transmission rebuilding, metal-shaping and fabrication on classic cars.

For beer enthusiasts, Rich Colton will offer a unique and personalized beer tasting at $30 per person.  Tasting must be reserved in advance or the night of the event if space remains available.  The times are 7 p.m., 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. and limited to 12 guests per tasting.  Rich is an experienced beer taster, a craft beer snob and a leader/member of several tasting groups.  In addition, he is a judge for the Carolina Championship of Beer competition.  Rich explains, “Craft beer tasting is an enjoyable exploration of diverse flavors, aromas, and appearances. Whether you’re sampling a light or dark lager, a fruity wheat beer, a hoppy IPA, a rich stout, or robust barleywine, each beer style offers unique characteristics. Observing the color, clarity, and head, inhaling the complex aromas, and savoring the distinct flavors will enhance your appreciation for the craftsmanship and variety in the world of craft beer. Cheers to discovering your new favorite brews!”  After the beer tasting, those participating will be given a commemorative beer glass.

Sponsors for Cruisin Down Main are Paramount Automotive, Frye Regional Medical Center, Imagine One Hospitality/The Art of Compassion, OrthoCarolina, Pepsi of Hickory, Hickory Sheet Metal and All Glass. The cost to attend Cruisin’ Down Main is $90 per person with an additional $30 per person for those adding the beer tasting to their ticket order.  Reservations can be made online by going to www.ccmhickory.org, or call Monday-Thursday, 10 a. m.-2 p.m., 828-323-7906. Proceeds from Cruisin’ Down Main support the mission of GHCCM to offer Hope, Health and Healing.