FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

August 31, 2004

Randy Nehrt

2004 Secretary of State's Antique Vehicle Show Coming Soon

SPRINGFIELD — The 2004 Secretary of State's Antique Vehicle Show will be held Sept. 11 at the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield.

First organized in 1949 as an Antique Auto Meet, the show today features not only some of the finest antique and classic vehicles in Illinois, but sports cars and motorcycles as well.

"We encourage antique vehicle owners and enthusiasts to come enjoy our auto show and swap meet again this year at the Illinois State Fairgrounds," said White. "As always we expect to have some of the finest antique vehicles from Illinois and neighboring states on display."

The Illinois State Champion award will be given to the vehicle judged best at the show by the Auto Show Advisory Committee.

In honor of the 100th anniversary of Buick, the special Marquee award will be given to the owner of the top Buick at this year's show. The award represents a different automobile manufacturer each year.

First, second and third place winners will receive awards in at least 46 classes of vehicles, including antique motor scooters, motor-powered bikes and antique motorcycles.

Special Event license plates promoting the Auto Show are available for $20 per set. The Antique Vehicle Show Advisory Committee will sponsor a reception for participants at the Northfield Inn on Friday, September 10. The Northfield Inn & Suites is also providing special hotel rates are for out-of-town participants.

New this year is an exhibit and demonstration of antique tractors sponsored by the Vintage Agricultural Association of Menard County. The organization was formed in July 2001 to honor Illinois' agricultural heritage through the preservation, restoration and education of vintage agriculture equipment.

For a brochure including an Auto Show/Swap Meet registration form, write to the Secretary of State's office, 450A Howlett Building, Springfield, IL 62756, or call 217/557-7629. The brochure also is available online at http://www.cyberdriveillinois.com.