Cruisin' into fun, nostalgia at Lauri Ann West Community Center

Auto aficionados and hot-rodders can cruise in to O’Hara for a gear-head festival sure to please.

The first-ever Cruisin’ at the Community Center will be Aug. 14 at Lauri Ann West Community Center along Powers Run Road.

Presented by Chip Ganassi Racing, the event will showcase more than 80 vehicles in a classic pull-up and park format for car enthusiasts. It will be noon to 5 p.m. and admission is free.

“This event is designed to bring the community together while fostering interest for youngsters to get involved in cars and car shows as a hobby,” said Keith Cassidy of Indiana Township.

Cassidy has been a key advisor to the show, along with Lee Borczyk of West Deer, who spent years restoring a 1954 Chevy 210 two-door sedan.

Together, the pair has decades of car knowledge to share with guests.

They touted the pastime as a gateway to bridge generations and create lifetime memories, particularly through restoration and storytelling.

Cassidy owns a 2002 Mercedes-Benz SL500 AMG and serves on the operating committee of the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix.

He said he has attended car shows for 50 years and treasures the camaraderie and inspiration they promote.

On display at the community center will be antique, custom, sports, muscle, luxury models and cars-in-progress.

Participants can look forward to hearing stories behind each vehicle while getting an up-close look.

Nadine Ostrowski, community outreach manager for the center, said food trucks also will be a draw for the family-friendly event.

Expected to be serving food on wheels is Mr. Bulgogi Korean BBQ from noon to 2 p.m., Pittsburgh Crepes from 1 to 3 p.m., DJ’s Steaks from 2 to 4 p.m. and Let’s Taco from 3 to 5 p.m.

Aspinwall Everyday Gourmet Café will have a pop-up tent with additional options.

There will be raffles that include a collection of car-care products, dining gift cards and a Huffy 16-inch bike.

“We love having families come out from all over the Fox Chapel Area School District and beyond,” Ostrowski said. “It’s all about sharing stories and food and making memories together.”

There is no fee to park and show a vehicle. Dash plaques will be given to the first 100 participating vehicles.