Car Show
Wheels & Waves Brings Classic Car Enthusiasts Together at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum
2024-11-08
The Channel Islands Maritime Museum in Oxnard, California, recently played host to the November edition of the Wheels & Waves car show, organized by renowned automotive enthusiast Fireball Tim Lawrence. The free event, held on Sunday, November 3rd, offered a day of family-friendly fun and camaraderie for car lovers of all ages.
Connecting Car Enthusiasts and Celebrating Automotive Passion
A Vibrant Gathering of Classic Car Enthusiasts
The Wheels & Waves car show at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum was a true celebration of automotive passion. Car lovers from the local community and beyond flocked to the event, eager to share their common bond and explore the diverse array of classic and modern vehicles on display. The bright fall morning provided the perfect backdrop for this gathering of enthusiasts, who enjoyed free coffee, donuts, and the opportunity to wander through the museum's exhibits.One of the standout attractions was the 1970 Volkswagen Beetle with a sunroof, owned by Joe Vasquez and brought to the show by his son, Victor. The Vasquez family's love for Volkswagens is a testament to the enduring appeal of these iconic vehicles, with Joe having previously owned a 1960 Beetle convertible. As Victor shared, the car has undergone a transformation, with a fresh paint job and new upholstery, showcasing the dedication and care that goes into preserving these automotive treasures.Celebrating the Diversity of the Automotive Community
Fireball Tim Lawrence, the driving force behind the Wheels & Waves event, emphasized the inclusive nature of the show, where the focus is on the people and their passion for cars, rather than the cars themselves. "If someone brings a car to the show and loves it, we love it," he said, highlighting the event's commitment to celebrating the diverse interests and personalities within the car enthusiast community.This inclusive approach was evident in the presence of Shoshanna Hnat, the Communications and Events Manager at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum, who brought her 10-year-old Great Pyrenees Anatolian Shepherd Mix, Grayson, to enjoy the festivities. Hnat's enthusiasm for the event and the museum's partnership with Wheels & Waves underscores the event's ability to bring together a wide range of individuals, united by their shared passion for all things automotive.Promoting Automotive Education and Opportunities
The Wheels & Waves event also served as a platform to showcase the exceptional automotive education programs offered at Oxnard College. Olivia Long, the Career Education Program Specialist at the college, was on hand to discuss the diverse trade education opportunities available to students, many of which are offered at no cost thanks to the college's financial aid and support programs.Long emphasized the college's commitment to catering to students with varying skill levels, from complete novices to those with years of hands-on experience working on cars. The college's Strong Inventory Assessment Tool, which helps students identify their interests and align them with potential career paths, is just one example of the innovative approaches Oxnard College takes to ensure its students succeed in the automotive industry.Expanding Horizons and Sharing Stories
Fireball Tim Lawrence, in addition to his role as the organizer of the Wheels & Waves event, is a multitalented individual with a diverse range of interests and projects. He shared his excitement about the upcoming premiere of his new series, "Interior Chinatown," on Hulu, as well as his upcoming appearances at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, where he will be showcasing custom cars and signing autographs.Lawrence's passion for sharing his experiences and inspiring others is evident in his desire to mentor young people and help them achieve their dreams. He reflected on the impact a mentor could have had on his own journey, and expressed his gratitude for the opportunities that have presented themselves as he has grown older. This commitment to giving back and empowering the next generation of automotive enthusiasts is a testament to Lawrence's dedication to the car community.The Wheels & Waves event at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum was a resounding success, bringing together a diverse group of car enthusiasts, educators, and industry professionals to celebrate their shared passion for all things automotive. From the classic Volkswagen Beetle to the cutting-edge custom builds, the event offered something for everyone, fostering a sense of community and inspiring the next generation of automotive enthusiasts.