Sunday mornings in the summer, the shoreline at Wright Park Beach in Dunkirk is lined with classic cars as the Lake Shore Street Rods Association gathers for “Cars and Coffee at the Rails.”

This Sunday, however, the group will meet up and head off to Fredonia to celebrate a local veteran.

The Street Rods have organized a drive-by parade along Howard Ave. in front of Fredonia Place to honor Dewey Winchell in celebration of his 99th birthday. Winchell is a World War II veteran and a retired Fredonia police officer.

Mike Brooks, an administrator of the “Cars & Coffee at the Rails!” Facebook page, posted the event on the page earlier this week. Within less than two days, more than 85 people interacted with the post, which was shared more than 35 times. Winchell’s son, David Winchell, posted, “My Dad is going to love it. Thank you all! See you Sunday!”

Another comment on the page was from Sheridan Town Councilman Joe White, a United States Army veteran who served his country for 28 years. White served in the Army infantry division and also worked for the Department of Treasury, along with service on various committees. White called the event “a great way to celebrate” Winchell’s life and vowed to attend.

The Lake Shore Street Rods Association is committed to honoring veterans for their service to our nation. For the third straight year, the annual Harbor Cruise event at Point Gratiot benefited the Chautauqua County Veterans Endowment Fund, in addition to Dunkirk-Fredonia Meals on Wheels. Thousands of dollars are raised each year through the Street Rods events, including more than $10,000 two years ago.

In addition to the Harbor Cruise, the Lake Shore Street Rods Association also held a Cruise-In event at the Sheridan VFW Post 6390 in August 2022 to benefit local veterans’ programs. The Samuel Cimino VFW Post 6472 in Silver Creek also holds Cruise-In events on Wednesdays in support of local veterans.

Cars and Coffee at the Rails is held along Lakefront Boulevard near Wright Park Beach every Sunday from 9-11 a.m., weather permitting. The group is hopeful for a big turnout this week to honor Dewey Winchell and thank him for his service.