By Jamie Schnell
schnellj@knoxfocus.com
The East Tennessee Corvette Club (ETCC) is excited to celebrate its 56th annual car show on October 11th at Reeder Chevrolet in Knoxville. This event is a favorite tradition that brings together friends, families, and car enthusiasts from all over the region. Since its founding in 1958 by four charter members, ETCC has grown along with the Corvette, building strong connections and lasting memories over the years.
The 56th annual Corvette Show will feature not only beautiful cars but also a spirit of giving, with door prizes, a silent auction, and awards for best in show, best in class, and dealer’s or people’s choice. Every year, ETCC shows its commitment to the community by donating 100% of event proceeds to local charities. These include the Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital, Second Harvest Food Bank (where club members volunteer every other month), Ben Atchley Veterans Home, Boys and Girls Club of the Tennessee Valley, and the University of Tennessee College of Nursing Scholarship fund. These efforts help provide opportunities and hope where they are needed most.
Another upcoming event is Vette Fest, which will take place September 25 and 26 in Gatlinburg. This year’s theme is Stars, Stripes and Stingrays. The festival usually attracts people from all over the country, and this year eight different Corvette clubs will join, with an option to “Drive The Dragon.” Vette Fest and the annual car show are the club’s two main charity events.
Kirk Dale, the current president of ETCC, says the club feels like a family of caring people who love Corvettes, each other, and their community. In the past five years, ETCC has donated over $100,000 to local charities. Kirk finds it rewarding to see the difference their work makes and invites sponsors, small businesses, and other car fans to join them in giving back.
Ed Koziara, who leads the car show, said, “We would not be here today without the incredible support of Reeder Chevrolet. Their partnership has been a backbone for our club, and I’ve trusted them to care for my own car since 2015.”
Ed also talked about how the club comes together to serve, such as marching in veterans parades, supporting Wreaths Across America, and building friendships that go beyond just cars.
Josh Stansberry has been the general sales manager at Reeder Chevrolet since 2009. He said, “It’s a good team, growing the relationship between the club and Reeder Chevrolet. For example, we now include club memberships with Corvette sales and service.”
Former president Don Wolber put it simply: “It just makes you feel good to help people.” This sense of purpose and joy is what keeps ETCC going year after year.
Today, ETCC has more than 347 members. Since 1968, the club has met at Reeder Chevrolet on the first Tuesday of every month and is always looking for new members.
To become a sponsor or join the club, visit www.etccwebsite.com.
