Always take time to appreciate the classics.
That mantra is most commonly used in reference to reading the all-time great works of literature. But it also applies to the Highlands Motoring Festival and it’s annual nod to classic cars.
On Thursday, the love of reading and the love of driving came together as festival organizers visited The Literacy Council of Highlands to disperse the proceeds from the 2019 event. A total of $43,500 was awarded to three nonprofits – The Literacy Council, the Community Care Clinic of Highlands and Cashiers and REACH of Macon County.
The amount donated represented a record for the Highlands Motoring Festival, now in its 13th year.
“We weren’t sure what to expect last summer because of all the rain that we had during the festival, but luckily our event isn’t necessarily dependent on having ideal conditions,” Highlands Motoring Festival co-chair Steve Ham said. “Even with the rain, we had over 80 cars on display in Kelsey-Hutchinson Founder’s Park and we drew a solid crowd.”
Ham added that festival organizers are hoping for a little help from Mother Nature when the 2020 event begins its four-day run on June 11. The 2020 featured marque is Packard, but there will be plenty of other manufacturers represented – including historic Porsche and BMW models.
“Our event has really grown through the years, to a point where we now have more than 60 local volunteers that keep things running smoothly,” Ham said. “Over four days we offer events for both the owners of the show cars and for the public to enjoy. From Bentleys, to classic Volkswagens, and everything in between, we try to present a diverse mix of makes and models.”
All proceeds from the event go to local human needs charities.
“The Highlands Motoring Festival has been very supportive of the work that we do and we are certainly thankful for their generous donation,” The Literacy Council of Highlands Executive Director Bonnie Potts said. “Highlands is a very giving community.”
The 2020 Highlands Motoring Festival will take place June 11-14. For a full schedule of events, or more information, visit www.HighlandsMotoringFestival.com.