After some debate, Tourism board votes to give car show organizers $7,500

Days after an estimated 1,000 people poured into downtown Corbin for the first Cumberland Valley Cruise-In of 2010, the Corbin Tourism Commission agreed to give $7,500 to event organizers.

Bruce Hodge, who represented Cumberland Valley Cruise-In officials at Monday’s meeting, initially asked for $10,000, which he said would be used to promote the monthly event.

"We use the money to buy T-shirts, prizes to be given away and for advertisement," Hodge said. Hodge said Saturday’s event drew 180 classic and custom vehicles.

In addition, a local group, "The Ponytails," performed a variety of classic songs from the 50s and 60s. Beginning at 4 p.m. Saturday, Main Street from 4th Street to Gordon Street was closed to vehicle traffic.

Hodge said he spoke to several area business owners who were happy about the additional traffic generated by the event. However, several members of the board noted the complaints they received from other business owners that the event drove away their regular customers.

"Its fun, but not fun for people if their businesses are being hurt," board chair Suzy Razmus said.

The board asked Hodge about the possibility of moving the event to Depot Street, where the event could be held in the public parking lots.

Hodge said the parking lots were used by visitors coming to the show and since moving to Main Street about three years ago, the event has continued to grow.

"We can’t go back to Depot Street," Hodge said.

Hodge said holding the event on Main Street is a great way to promote the improvements to downtown.

"The people just marveled at the new street lights and how beautiful downtown is," Hodge said.

Hodge said in the coming months, more food options and more entertainment will be coming to the event, which is scheduled to return to Main Street on June 13, July 11 and Sept. 12.

"We have the Ponytails, but we are trying to add some new singing acts," Hodge said. "New blood is always welcome."