POTSDAM — Enthusiasts came to Amvets Post 282’s second annual Classic Car and Truck Show in vehicles from every era, meticulously restored and cared for. From a Model A to a modern Mustang, cars and trucks of all types were on display and many owners had stories to tell.

The event was held behind Ton’s Sports Bar, 159 Market St., Potsdam, on Sunday. Owners could spend $12 to enter their car into the show; the event was free for spectators.

Mike A. Martell’s desire to drive a Camaro like the one he owned in the ’80s turned into a six-year passion project. He bought a 1971 Chevrolet Camaro for $1,200 and began the long process of restoring it.

“It was a rust bucket at the time,” the Norfolk resident said.

He scoured eBay and junk yards for parts. Sometimes he would create what he needed from scratch.

“Whenever I had the opportunity to make something, I would,” he said.

Although Mr. Martell knew the basics, renovating his Camaro from the inside-out took plenty of research. He had to learn how to properly sandblast and paint his car, and how to install new glass.

It finally was finished about three years ago, gleaming red with plenty of chrome. The car is now valued at $13,000, and Mr. Martell shows it at six or seven shows every year. It’s the only car he’s ever restored, although he said he wants to give it another go.

“I’ll do it again if my wife will let me,” he said.

Tracy L. Sheesley, Canton, described his Excalibur roadster as a “neo-classic” — a limited-edition car made in the ’80s and designed to emulate the style of cars from the late 1920s. Sheesley’s model was one of only 32 made. He bought it from a synagogue in 2001.

Glen W. Hollinger and his son, Glen Hollinger Jr. of Potsdam, have been collecting and restoring classic cars for the past 10 years. They came to the show in their two latest projects, a 1955 Ford Thunderbird and a 1966 Volkswagen Beetle.

Mr. Hollinger said he likes knowing the cars he works on are high-quality.

“When you get done with the car, you know what it is,” he said. “A lot of cars, you buy them and you don’t know what you’re getting.”

Three judges were selected who had no connection to either AMVETS or the various car clubs represented at the show. They gave away two trophies, one to the best car of the show and one to the best truck, along with 15 honorable-mention plaques.

“None of us are car experts by any means,” said Jeff M. Yette, who volunteered to judge and act as the show’s announcer. “We just went on our own personal taste.”

All three judges were fans of classic muscle cars and they awarded the trophy to a 1967 Chevrolet Camaro owned by Bob and Fern LaBarge. The truck trophy was awarded to Neil McIntos for his 1959 Ford F150.

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