Five Minutes With… ·
Five Minutes With Keith Goebel
Keith Goebel · Organizer, Barrhaven Classic Car Show
Keith Goebel lives in Old Barrhaven East and runs the Barrhaven Classic Car Show at Clarke Fields, now heading into its eighth year, with proceeds going to CHEO. He organizes the show largely on his own.
The Barrhaven Classic Car Show is heading into its 8th year at Clarke Fields, with the proceeds going to CHEO. How did it start, and what keeps you doing it year after year?
“Started out by going to car shows in the surrounding area, and realizing that Barrhaven was more central to the area, so why not start one up here. People who I talked to in the community liked the idea. What keeps me continuing is that people are still interested in looking at the classics of yesterday.”
What goes into putting on a show like this that people never see, and what's the moment each year that makes it all worth it?
“A lot of work and legwork: calling, emails, to contact all the sponsors, vendors, arranging music, food, insurance, toilets, advertising, seeking volunteers, and communication with the city. This is all for one day, and hoping that Mother Nature is on our side. Seeing everyone's happy faces, talking to the owners of the classic cars, kids seeing and learning about history.”
What's something about Barrhaven only a local would know?
“That there definitely is a need for providing more information as to what is happening in the area on a regular basis. For example, are people even aware that a food bank is located next to the library at the Walter Baker Centre? Valuable info for people who need that service.”
If you could change one thing about Barrhaven tomorrow, what would it be?
“A note about something that can be done in Barrhaven: on Fallowfield and Woodroffe Road, overpasses at the railroad tracks would save on traffic tie-ups and address safety concerns. It would also be great to have a major outdoor swimming pool for local kids.”
Who in Barrhaven should we talk to next?
“Continue asking opinions of the local people of Barrhaven.”
This interview was conducted in writing through the Bugle’s interview form; answers lightly edited for length and clarity.