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48th annual International Meet of Studebaker Drivers kicks off

Posted: 9:57 PM Jul 30, 2012
Reporter: Brandon Lewis

48th annual International Meet of Studebaker Drivers kicks off
48th annual International Meet of Studebaker Drivers kicks off
48th annual International Meet of Studebaker Drivers kicks off

Studebaker collectors gathered in South Bend for the 48th Annual International Meet of Studebaker Drivers.

"I believe it rides better than all new cars. Going over potholes and stuff, it feels like you're in a boat, you just don't feel the bumps in the car," said Nathan Baird, who his family's 1956 Studebaker Packard Super Clipper from their home in Montana.

South Bend hosts the meet every five years. The event is expected to bring $1.5 million to the community.

"It's great knowing that because in past meets we've heard lots of stories where people have mad e a lot of restaurants and things have really made a lot of money from us and they appreciate it. One restaurant brought us lunch," said Karen Dyer with the local Studebaker Drivers Club.

Throughout the week, visitors will attend a gambling night at Four Winds Casino, the Hudson Museum Shipshewana as well as a Chicago architectural boat cruise.

The Studebaker Cruise-in takes place on Main Street Thursday with a celebration at the College Football Hall of Fame from 5 to 7 p.m.

For more information, click on the Big Red bar.