Cars chase MBPD K9 support

Story and photos by Mia Dowdell

Six blocks of vintage and custom cars were on display at the 3rd Annual Manhattan Beach Car Show on Sunday, Sept. 26, in downtown Manhattan Beach

Because of COVID, the third annual was four years after the show’s founding.

The show raises funds for Manhattan Beach Police Canine Foundation, and for medical assistance for veterans.

Among the vintage cars was a 31-year-old, maroon Volkswagen beetle owned by Eddie Galvin.

“When I was 16, I really wanted a Volkswagen because where I grew up, in Venice, everyone had Volkswagens. I worked part time at McDonald’s for two years saving up money, and with that money, I bought this bug,” Galvin said.

With the help of friends, he has kept the car in its original condition, and now only brings it out for shows.

Another notable car, at the entrance to the event, was a blue, 1996 Chevrolet with Jurassic Park decorations, including dinosaur teeth and plastic dinosaurs. Owner Ernie Gonzales said he drives the car “just about every day.”

“I loved dinosaurs as a kid, so I put this together for today’s kids,” Gonzales said.

He cited his father’s work as a mechanic for his interest in on working cars. The dinosaurs, however, are based solely on his childhood fascination.

“I’m a lover of classic cars, assembling cars and dinosaurs, so I just put all of them together,” Gonzales said.

DeAnne Chase said she drives the 1961 Pontiac Catalina Convertible that she brought to the show, every weekend. Her late father worked at General Motors for over three decades.

“My dad bought this car in Korea, and was driving it when he picked up my mom along the Sunset Strip. They got married in this car,” Chase said. “When my dad passed away, I took over this car, and I’m kind of carrying on his legacy.”

Nicole Sanders, a face painter at the event, believes the fundraiser will bring more awareness” to the Manhattan Beach Police Canine Foundation.

“I feel it’s a part of my job to help contribute to the community,” Sanders said.

For more information visit MBPDK9.com. ER