The residents of Gadsden County recently gathered for a day of family fun, food and entertainment at Derrick’s Custom Car and Bike Show, which was held at Quincy’s Business Park on May 16.
The event lasted from noon until 8 p.m.
A plethora of businesses were showcased, from food and drink items to clothing and accessories.
Many of the business owners practiced social distancing and enforced masks within the designated pop-up shopping areas.
The vendors occupied one side of the park, while the stage and custom show lured visitors on the other side.
A significant number of vendors expressed their gratitude for being involved with this community event.
Henry White, owner of Joe Joe’s Daiquiris, said that it was a blessing to be able to operate amid the many unforeseen changes COVID-19 brought for small business owners.
“I didn’t make as much as I thought I would, but I did make something,” said White. “It’s a great thing when you’re working with good people because although we purchased vendor spaces last year, we were able to come back and be a part of everything this year.”
The Gadsden County Health Department set up camp next to the entry line to advertise and distribute COVID-19 vaccines; according to the Facebook page for the event, 200 vaccines were available to the public.
Security and police officers assisted during the entire duration of the show.
Social media promotion and physical visual aids were implemented throughout Joe Adams route to help drivers traveling from all over.
Custom shops and vehicle owners popped open their doors, conducted some external cleaning and acclimated their custom rides to their designated placement for the show.
Kids dancing to the many sources of music from each car, while capturing moments with smartphones and video cameras.
Many of the vehicle owners interacted with the children and adults by sharing information about the customization of the car, giving them front-row accessibility.
Chris Baker, the owner of a car in the show, described the day’s atmosphere as one that ‘fosters a healthy and safe environment for everyone in the community.’
“Today’s event promotes a family environment with non-violent relations,” said Baker. “It is very positive for men and their children to relate and it also brings the community together to have somewhere outside of the club to gather and express themselves.”
Derrick Butler, the founder of Derick’s Custom Car and Bike Show, has been putting on this custom car show for over 19 years.
“This event is enormous for the community. I came up with this idea many years ago and it was mainly to bring the businesses and community together to enjoy each other. All of the businesses in town are making money and everyone is having fun, it’s just a great impact for the community. The people are having a good time and that is why we’re all here, “ said Butler.
Oriana Plummer – Gadsden County News Service
Photos by Oriana Plummer
