Driven by Memories

By Lisa Duncan

Father’s Day arrived bathed in sunshine in our Eden by the Sea, where dozens of gleaming classics lined the Front Plaza at Casa Dorinda for a festive vintage car show.

But among the polished chrome and lovingly restored classic cars, one story stood out.

Beside his award-winning 1943 Dodge WC 52, Robert Gordon displayed a troop of World War II reenactors, including Gavin Rutland of Carpinteria and Alex Nordholm of Santa Barbara, who appeared as a wartime medic. A third member of the unit, affectionately nicknamed “Griff,” remained perfectly still throughout the festivities – though being a mannequin rather helped.

“We get to share this history with all the dads here, bringing back memories,” said Robert.

For Robert, those memories came full circle. He recalled Gavin climbing aboard the very same truck as a kindergartener at Carpinteria’s Rods & Roses car show. Years later, Gavin returned as a WWII reenactor, inside the truck that first sparked his fascination with history.

“We really have a passion for history and love listening to the stories from the older generations,” said Gavin. 

“I remember riding in the rumble seat of my grandfather’s car. We thought it was such a thrill!” said Anne Edmonston, recalling one of many cherished memories sparked by the cars on display.

It was a fitting Father’s Day reminder that classic cars are memory makers, carrying stories across generations.

During the awards ceremony, announced by Brooks Firestone, top honors went to Jim Harris for his 1916 Roush Lang, Woody Barrett for his 1949 DeSoto Woody, Orwin Middleton for his 1963 Ferrari Lusso, and Robert for his 1943 Dodge WC 52. Best dressed went to Linda Kowalsky and Dana Newquist. 

The classic cars drew the crowd. The meaningful memories stole the show.

Sightings 

Kenny Loggins delighted Bowl fans with a surprise appearance at Charlie Puth’s concert, hopping onstage for their new collab, Love in Exile, after Puth credited Loggins with shaping his career… Prince Harry enjoyed a Father’s Day bear hug as Meghan Markle caught a cute snap of Harry and Lilibet with Archie, sporting a pint size England soccer shirt… Josh Brolin turned heads on Father’s Day, spotted cruising through Montecito on one of his vintage custom Harley choppers, enjoying the sunshine in Cito style… Gene Simmons traded rock-star theatrics for family time, enjoying a Montecito lunch with wife Shannon Tweed-Simmons before, as Shannon joked, the KISS legend headed off for a well-earned Father’s Day “nap time before the movies.” 

From Richard and friends to all of you… Pip! Pip!