PICKENS — The 2016 edition of Wings for Meals arrived April 23 at the flightline a huge success as hundreds poured into Pickens County Airport to help raise much needed funds for Pickens County’s chapter of Meals on Wheels.
With classic and custom cars, bikes, and planes on hand a variety of visitors came out to take in the sights, have a tasty burger, and help a charity that goes above and beyond for Pickens County’s seniors, providing home delivery of hot meals, and on more than one occasion a much needed smile into someone’s life.
Executive Director Meta Bowers, fresh from a few barrel rolls and loops herself, was thrilled with the cooperation of the weather and the large turnout in support.
“We have 127 show cars here today and there were 100 by 10:30 this morning,” Bowers said halfway through the event. “It’s been a constant stream of people since we began in the morning and hasn’t slowed down all day. We can’t thank everyone enough who provided cars or plane rides or cooked burgers or all the people who have come out today to help support us.”
Meals on Wheels’ goal for the fundraiser was $15,000, including sponsorships, and although the final tally will not be available for several days, Bowers felt confident they would reach their goal.
“We haven’t begun to look at what has been brought in with sponsorships but I feel good about reaching our goal and I’m even more excited for what that means to the local Meals on Wheels,” Bowers said. “By meeting that goal we will be able to fund one route for an entire year. That doesn’t mean we don’t need volunteers or help with packaging the meals because we always do.”
Those who missed or were unable to attend Wings for Meals are still encouraged to donate their time and resources to assist in feeding the seniors of Pickens County. Bowers stated donations are accepted through the local organization’s website or at the center located at 349 Edgemont Ave. in Liberty.
The total raised during Wings for Meals 2016 will be made available as soon as the final figures are tabulated.
Although there were 127 classic cars on display, the customized bikes were well represented, sitting sleek on the tarmac.
There were plenty of opportunities for enthusiasts to enjoy land and air. Several planes were on display, classics themselves, for the aficionado and novice alike.
Biplanes were among the crowd favorites with rides available. The proceeds from the rides went to help the Pickens County Meals on Wheels chapter.
With well over 100 classic cars to see there are bound to be models no longer in production, much like the Studebaker, a remnant from days long gone and reminiscent of America’s love affair with the automobile.
Along with classic automobiles and custom bikes several had their own custom cars on display. Here is one man’s answer to the impending zombie apocalypse.
Vehicles from differing eras were either restored to their classic and off the production line looks or transformed into instant custom classics lined up door to door along the tarmac. Here a classic VW Beetle is seen following its transformation into “The Grape Ape.” Notice the frightened banana peering out of the cabin.
Each automobile had its own flair and personality, combining a modern feel with classic lines. Selection of color and paint is of the utmost importance, sometimes resulting in a glittering metal flake finish.
The classic and custom autos on display during Wings for Meals came in varying ages and finished designs. The colors and concepts were random and surprising.
Even the youngest of visitors was swept up in the excitement of the moment. Although too young to fly the dream of leaving gravity behind left no one out of its influence.
Another view of the customized Zombie Terminator.
Not only were planes and cars on display, so was the personality of those in attendance.
One surprising display were the remote control (RC) planes. from small helicopters to planes nearing eight feet in length, there were models on display for any level of experience.
When you go custom that includes the paint and design on the chassis. Here is one custom bike and its detailed artwork.
