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Christopher Pekny Memorial Motor Show coming to Livingston Manor

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Cars, trucks, motorcycles, tractors and just about anything with wheels and an engine are coming to Livingston Manor this September. 

The first annual Christopher Pekny Memorial Motor Show will take place Saturday, September 18 at the Robin Hood Diner from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. 

A car and motor enthusiast himself, Christopher passed away unexpectedly earlier this year just as he and his partner, Jennifer Edwards, were expecting their first child. Now the Pekny family, who have owned and operated the Robin Hood Diner since 1981, are hosting a major event to not only honor Christopher’s memory, but also to benefit Edwards and their newborn son, Christopher Ethan Pekny.

The idea came from a group of loyal customers and friends who frequent the Robinhood Diner, led by Shane McDermott and Tom Bowes. Originally from Tullamore, Ireland, the brothers-in-law are part-time residents of Livingston Manor and would frequent the bar where they talked with brothers Christopher, Michael and Pete about classic cars, trucks, and hot rods.

“They came up with the idea of doing the motor show,” Pete said. “We started talking about it around April, and the ball started rolling from there.” 

With the help of friends and family, including the Wowks and their extended family, interest has spread by word of mouth and the response has been overwhelming.

“It’s taken off like crazy and I think we’re going to have a lot of people,” said Christopher’s mom, Jan Pekny. “With Christopher’s popularity and our friend base, it’s going to be quite the mixed bag of a lot of nice vehicles.”

Instead of just having a car show, the event intends to capture some of Christopher’s eclectic taste for anything with wheels and a motor. 

“This would have been right up his alley. He would have loved doing this,” Pete said. 

The Pekny family hopes this event becomes an annual occurrence. They’re in the process of setting up a website and social media accounts to get the word out under #teamchris.

The Peknys say that the outpouring of support from the community has been incredible. Chick-E-Ribs BBQ will be at the Robin Hood Diner in September to sell their “Pekny Dogs.” As Christopher was a big fan of Chick-E-Ribs, this special menu item of his own invention is named in his honor. A specialty Sabrett hot dog topped with pulled pork and homemade coleslaw. Chick-E-Ribs says that for every Pekny Dog sold they will donate one dollar for Christopher Jr. 

The Sullivan County Sheriff’s Office will bring their D.A.R.E Corvette as well as their BearCat armored car. State Senator Mike Martucci, who founded Quality Bus Company, will be bringing on one of his busses as well.

“I couldn’t even begin to tell you all the people who’ve donated or have helped to make this happen,” Pete said. 

Food and beverages will be served and a 50/50 raffle will take place with half the money going toward Chris Jr.’s college fund. 

“Or his toolbox fund, depending on what comes first” Pete joked. 

Anybody interested in donating or sponsoring the event, as well as those looking to register a vehicle, can contact the Pekny family by emailing chriscarshow@gmx.comor calling (845) 807-7109.  The cost is $20 per vehicle and all participants are responsible for their own vehicle. Awards will be presented in various classes and categories including best in show, most original and more.

Early registration ensures a spot at the Robin Hood Diner. Day of and overflow registration will ensure a spot at the Livingston Manor High School parking lot. 

“The Livingston Manor School District was very kind to offer us space for spill over and even the back lot behind the school for extra parking or people who need to trailer their vehicles in,” Pete said. 

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