Gregg Kennedy has owned three Mustangs. The one currently in his corral is a 1985 5-liter in medium canyon red, but the first "Stang" Kennedy ever owned was a 1965 model he bought at Sauder's Chevrolet in New Holland. "(The car) was 7 years old, and I paid $650," recalled Kennedy. "I wish I still had that car."

The Mustang, also known as the "pony" car, which was developed by Lee Iacocca for Ford, will turn 60 this year. To celebrate that anniversary, the Vintage Sights and Sounds New Holland Antique Car, Gas Engine, and Tractor Show will feature a number of "unique Mustangs and survivor cars," according to organizer Steve Loewen. This year's show, the 43rd annual, will be held in the New Holland Community Memorial Park, 400 E. Jackson St., New Holland, on Sunday, July 14, beginning at 9 a.m. with breakfast items available for purchase. Cars may enter the show field at 9:30 a.m. As in the past, vehicles to be judged must be registered by noon on Saturday, July 13.

Kennedy will bring his current Mustang, which he purchased at New Holland Auto Group in 1995 for $400. "I work at New Holland Auto Group, and a customer who lives here in New Holland came in to trade it for a minivan," reported Kennedy, who noted that the former owner comes to see the professionally restored car at the show. Kennedy also formerly owned a 1972 Sprint edition Mustang in red, white, and blue. Because Stangs were built to appeal to young women's eyes and pocketbooks, Mustangs were often referred to as the "secretary's car." "In my opinion, it's the best sports car in the market, but I am highly prejudiced," noted Kennedy.

Cars entered in the show will be judged in 30 classes. Judging for the Spectator's Choice Award will begin at noon and cease at 2 p.m. For a nominal fee, spectators may obtain a ballot and vote for their favorite car. The Carl S. Sauder and Tom Wagner memorial awards, plus the new John D. Sauder Award, will be given out at 3:30 p.m. along with the Best of Show and Spectator's Choice awards.

Vintage sounds will include New Holland Band's German Band at 11 a.m., Dixieland Band at noon, and the New Holland Swing Band at 1:30 p.m.

A variety of food items will be available for purchase beginning at 9 a.m. Food trucks that will sell items at the event will include Mr. Mini's Tasty Donuts, Hen House Grilling & BBQ, D&B'z Foods, NiCE SiZE FRiES, and Lickity Split. The New Holland Band will coordinate a beverage stand.

In conjunction with the car show, the ELANCO Library will hold a book sale from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the park.

This year, Loewen's co-chair is New Holland Band member Cody Mellinger. "(Mellinger) is learning the ropes and adding his own suggestions for the show," said Loewen. "He has some good ideas."

Car owners who have questions about the show may contact Loewen at loewen58@yahoo.com or call 717-413-6229.