Wings and Wheels Expo roars into Ocean City Sept. 3
The Ocean City Aviation Association and Ocean City Municipal Airport will host the fourth annual Wings and Wheels Expo on Sept. 3, to keep interest in aviation and unique cars alive.
The event, held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., will feature private aircrafts, custom cars, antique military vehicles and more with owners available for discussion and questions.
Private Airline Pilot and OCAA member Steven Habeger said that the main goal of the event is to allow those with an interest in the fields to learn more and to stimulate an appreciation in young people.
“That’s what we’re all about,” Habeger said, “inspiring the younger generation who would like to get involved. We owe it to the younger generation not just to pass it down, but to let them know that these opportunities are there.”
Event Chairman Colman Bunting agreed; “we’re here to generate both entertainment and education.”
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In addition to the exhibits, food and beverages will be available as well as crafts from local vendors. The event will also hold door prizes and 50-50 raffles.
Different from past years, 2016’s Wings and Wheels Show will feature two musical acts: Randy Lee Ashcraft and the Ladies for Liberty.
Ashcraft’s music has been described as “beach country,” according to his website. He has been performing across the country for 20 years but has lately come back home to the Eastern Shore.
The Ladies for Liberty is a singing group that performs in the style of the Andrews Sisters, with a style evocative of the 1940s with their vocals, costumes and hairstyles, according to their website.
Proceeds from the event are going to the Huey Memorial, a fund dedicated to preserving and renovating the Vietnam-era War Helicopter on display at the airport.
“It’s been restored, but it needs maintenance to keep it outside all the time,” Habeger said. “We don’t want it to degrade. We want to do it right.”
In addition to the attractions, the event also allows special privileges to attendees.
“Usually people are not allowed on this aircraft ramp so this is an opportunity, especially for kids, to talk to pilots and look at airplanes up close, as well as cool cars,” Habeger said.
The event costs $10 to enter, although children under 12 are free. Parking is free a half mile from the airport, and a free bus shuttle will transport attendees back and forth.
IF YOU GO:
WHAT: Wings and Wheels Expo
WHEN: Sept. 3, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m.
Ocean City Municipal Airport,12724 Airport Rd.