O’Reilly Car Show welcomes ‘Voice of Hawkeyes’ Dolphin

     For the 53^rd consecutive year, KCRG-TV9 Presents the O’Reilly Auto Parts Rod & Custom Car Show. The event brings a mix of unique and interesting vehicles and affordable family fun to Monticello, Feb. 26-27, at the Berndes Center.

     This year’s show promises some vehicles never seen before at the event, all part of an impressive lineup of vintage street rods, custom cars, street machines, hot pickups, racecars, and custom motorcycles.

     Attendees this year get to meet and greet University of Iowa radio play-by-play announcer Gary Dolphin, the “Voice of the Hawkeyes.” Dolphin grew up in Cascade and recalls attending the event in his younger years, having known show co-founder and visionary Ralph Muller well. Dolphin will be available for autographs, photos, and conversation Sunday, Feb. 27, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

     Fifty-three years ago, Monticello Ralph G. Muller (1940-2020) had a vision for brightening up the Eastern Iowa winter by bringing together generations to enjoy classic cars and family fun.

     Once again, attendees can participate in the awarding of prizes. All spectators will receive official voting ballots at the door to vote for the following People’s Choice Awards: Car/Pickup, Motorcycle, and Model Car. As always, exhibitors have the opportunity to win trophies from Muller Brothers and cash awards from Citizens State Bank.

     In addition to the vehicles, added attractions include:

     • 3-D Sound Company DJ Dave Palmer

     • Caricature artist David Fliss of Flissart Entertainment

     • “Papa Balloon” artist Mark Garvey

     An entire new selection of scale model cars will compete in four categories for trophies and model car kits in the 37^th Annual Model Car Contest.

     Back by popular demand, the Monticello Eagles Club Ladies Auxiliary #4466 will be serving food items, with profits going toward community projects.

     Show hours are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday, and 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday. The awards presentation is set for 6:30 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children. Those 12 and under are admitted free with a paid adult. Receive $1 off by bringing a can of food to benefit Four Oaks family programs.

     Special precautions will be recommended due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.