by: Quincy Kirn
Originally founded in Foley, Alabama, Nightcruzin Media has now become a part of the 850-car scene. At the Whataburger on Highway 90 in Pace, you will find people of all backgrounds driving diverse types of Vehicles, from the nicest luxury cars to slammed minivans and everything in between.
What seems to be your average fast-food parking lot is suddenly transformed once seven o’ clock hits; individuals ranging from 70-year-olds to toddlers still hanging onto their mothers’ arms crowd around the orange and white striped building to get a glance of the jam-packed parking lot. Even those without the slightest interest or knowledge in these transformed, expensive cars have a delightful time as they listen to popular music blaring through subwoofer speakers and converse among themselves. The conversations being held vary from car to car as folks chat about the build of their engine, daily life and the goings on in town as the community gets to know one another better, thanks to the sponsor group, Night Cruzin.
A new dark blue C-5 Corvette, a 1988 Volkswagen Cabriolet, a Volvo 240, and a pearly white 2003 S type Jaguar. To the average person these just sound like random letters and numbers thrown together, but to anyone that knows anything about cars, it’s a vehicular zoo. The machinery ranges in price, but you can tell at first glance if a car has been built or if it’s from the factory without a trained eye. Builds for sound, luxury, speed, drifting, or just restoration of antique cars. According to Pensacola State student Jaxen Koehler, “The most knowledgeable people in the area are here, I know if I had a question about my car someone here would know how to help me. I also just enjoy looking at everyone else’s projects and pondering what my next vehicle will be.”
On October 7, after two hours of walking around viewing vehicles of all makes and models, hearing the roars of engines and screeching of tires, hunger might become a thought. Well, the event just so happens to be a fine restaurant open 24/7 right next door. The smell of fresh burgers and hot French fries hits you, and you realize you won’t be leaving the establishment without the entire #1 meal. The burger is warm and juicy on a thick white bread bun, it has all the
toppings and comes with fries that are fresh from the fryer and salted to perfection. Their soda is ice cold and just a little spicy from carbonation. As the meet comes to an end, the Whataburger lights stay on, the employees get everyone’s dinner together, and just as fast as the dining room fills, it empties.