Scorching temperatures were no match for community spirit as the Delavan Optimist Club hosted a well-attended and festive Cruise In in downtown Delavan this past Saturday. Despite the extreme heat, approximately 50 classic and custom cars lined the streets, drawing car enthusiasts and families alike to the heart of town for an evening of fun, prizes, and summer treats.

One standout among the crowd was Anthony Metcalf, 19, of Pekin, who earned the distinction of being the youngest participant to enter a vehicle in the Cruise In. Metcalf, along with his girlfriend Eryn Lamberson, proudly displayed his 1968 Ford Falcon, which he drives daily. Though modest in appearance, the Falcon boasts a 289 4-speed, and is no slouch on the road. Meanwhile, Metcalf’s “showstopper” car, a 1970 Monte Carlo Black Luxury Sport, was undergoing a transformation, being fitted with a 496 Big Block engine—certain to turn heads at future events. The couple didn’t just bring horsepower to the lot—they brought style, arriving in retro fashion and vintage swagger, adding flair and personality to the show.

The Cruise In featured a generous lineup of door prizes, celebrating attendees with a variety of fun and useful goodies. Brad Salisbury took home an M&M Monopoly game, while Joe Devall snagged a Farmhouse gift card. Other winners included Jerry Wolfe with a Bashar's gift card, Dan Bright with a pair of safety glasses, Mike Anderson with a Cubs-themed Monopoly game, Doug Hatcher with high-grade automotive tape, and Will Strasser, who won a vibrant Corvette sign.

Dan Bright furthered his lucky streak by winning $58 in the 50/50 Raffle, while the coveted $100 grand prize drawing went to Sean Abbott of Trivoli.

In addition to the gleaming chrome and friendly competition, the Optimist Club offered delicious funnel cakes for sale, satisfying the sweet tooth of attendees. A special highlight for families was the kids’ bike wash, co-hosted with Birth to Five Illinois in the parking lot behind the Bank of Pontiac. Children got the chance to cool off and scrub down their bikes in a fun, interactive activity perfect for the sweltering afternoon.

As engines revved and the sun blazed, community members proved once again that nothing can put the brakes on Delavan’s summertime joy.