Car show has family activities

The event isn't just for car fans, but the whole family.
By SHERRI L. SHAULIS
VINDICATOR TRUMBULL STAFF
McDONALD -- Denis Dean won't get a chance to rest much this vacation.
In addition to working on his own 1974 Pontiac GTO this week, he will visit businesses, handle phone calls from other car owners and stuff goodie bags.
But it will all pay off, as Thunder in the Park returns from 4-8 p.m. Sunday at Woodland Park in McDonald. The event is free and open to the public. Those interested in entering their vehicles for the show can pay $6 to pre-register, or $8 the day of the show.
Now in its ninth year, Thunder in the Park is consistently rated one of the Top 10 car shows in Northeast Ohio. Food and drink are sold at the show, and the playground and kiddie pool are open and supervised by park employees throughout the event.
Magician Christopher will also perform a one-hour stage show and a one-hour walk-through among the crowd, Dean said.
"Bring the kids," said Dean, also known as "Diz." "It's a great event for the entire family."
All proceeds from Thunder in the Park benefit the McDonald Fraternal Order of Police, which in turn uses the money to support groups and projects throughout the village.
National winner
In addition to organizing the show, Dean also will display his GTO, which recently won first place at the Pontiac Grand Nationals in Pontiac, Mich. It's the third straight year Dean has won the award.
"We are three for three," he said. "That's what we went there for, and we got it."
The car is also featured on the cover of High Performance Pontiac magazine.
During the show's closing ceremonies, 75 trophies will be awarded in various categories. Also, the first 100 participants will receive a goodie bag and a dash plaque.
To register for Thunder in the Park, call Dean at (330) 530-1717.
slshaulis@vindy.com