CEMA - 2004 CEMA Car Show Narrative

A Perfect Day for a Car Show

Throughout the very soggy month of May 2004, the members of the Chrysler Employee Motorsport Association (CEMA) were concerned about the weather that would greet us on June 5. After a full year of planning for our 15th Annual Car Show, we were truly concerned that the rains of May would continue into June, causing us to cancel the show. Thankfully, the weather gods chose to smile on us once again and June 5 was an absolutely perfect day for a car show.

Celebrating the AMC 50th Anniversary

The theme of the 2004 CEMA Car Show was the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the founding of American Motors Corporation. Our search for significant AMC vehicles to display at the Museum resulted in an overwhelming response. Forty-six AMC heritage vehicles were registered prior to the event and an additional 17 AMC vehicles were registered on the day of the show. We appreciate the enthusiasm and support of the AMC vehicle owners who shared their automobiles with us.

Children's Leukemia Foundation of Michigan

Each year, CEMA invites one or two charitable organizations to be involved in the show as a fund-raising opportunity. Early in 2004, we became aware of a joint effort between the Children's Leukemia Foundation of Michigan (CLF) and radio station WCSX to raise money by restoring and raffling a car . . .

The Stone Soup Hemi

. . . but not just any car - a 1970 Plymouth Road Runner powered by a Hemi engine donated by our friends at Mopar. This undertaking came to be known as the "Stone Soup Hemi".

Even in it's "work-in-progress" state, interest in the car was exceptional. The automotive enthusiasts who attended the show purchased a total of 290 raffle tickets. On September 23, 2004, the winning ticket will be drawn at the Walter P. Chrysler Museum and the Stone Soup Hemi will have a new owner.

WCSX-FM Radio

The support of WCSX radio contributed in large measure to the success of the 2004 CEMA Car Show. The radio station made frequent announcements about the event in the days leading up to the show. And WCSX on-air personalities J.J. and Lynne were in attendance, making the selection of the WSCX Award - a 1972 Plymouth 'Cuda convertible owned by Lynn Miller.

Club Participation

In addition to CEMA, other associations of automotive enthusiasts were well represented, including: North Oakland Mopar Muscle, the American Motors Owners Association, Motor City Viper Owners, Detroit Neon Owners, WPC Club, the Metropolitan Owners Club of North America, Shelby Dodge Automotive Club, and the Waterford Rod and Social Club. Each of these organizations had multiple vehicles in attendance. CEMA appreciates and welcomes the support of these and other car clubs.

Mark Your Calendars!

Now, the lawns to the north and south of the circle drive are vacant of cars. The tents have been taken down; the signs stored until next year. The "Stone Soup Hemi" is nearing completion and will soon reside with a new owner. And, somewhere, there is a group of CEMA members planning for our next two car shows. Mark your calendar now and plan to join in the fun!

June 11, 2005: a celebration of the Chrysler "letter" cars

June 10, 2006: celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Dodge Charger

By Roe Green
CEMA Internet Director;
Walter P. Chrysler Museum Volunteer