MEMORY … Family members of Jim Van Vlerah (Popcorn Jim) stand in front of the stand to give away popcorn in his memory.
PHOTOS BY RENEA KESSLER / THE VILLAGE REPORTER
CRUISE … Cruise night once again came to the downtown streets of Wauseon. This event is one that a great number of people look forward to each and every month.
By: Renea Kessler
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
renea@thevillagereporter.com
Downtown Wauseon was bustling on Tuesday, August 19, as the Super Cruise once again brought classic cars and community spirit to the heart of the city.
An estimated 110 classic and custom vehicles filled Fulton Street while hundreds of visitors enjoyed an evening of cars, food, music, and fellowship.
Adding to the lively atmosphere was the Super Tuesday Summer Market, where local vendors, food stands, and pop-up shops offered everything from handmade goods to sweet treats.
Families also had the chance to connect with the Wauseon Fire Department, which brought an engine and ambulance for children to explore.
This year, the Downtown Merchants Association helped coordinate vendors, expanding the event beyond its car show roots. Businesses stayed open late, while live entertainment, shopping, and dining gave visitors plenty of ways to enjoy the evening.
A heartfelt tribute was also part of the night. A free popcorn stand was set up in memory of Jim “Popcorn Jim” Van Vlerah, a Navy veteran and longtime plumbing contractor from Defiance.
For more than a decade, Jim brought cars to Wauseon’s Cruise Nights and became a beloved figure when he began selling popcorn with his own machine. In honor of his memory, popcorn was given away at this Super Cruise, a gesture that celebrated the joy he brought to the community over the years.
The next Super Cruise is scheduled for Tuesday, September 16, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., rain or shine, and is open to all makes and models.
The Super Tuesday Summer Market will return alongside the Super Cruise, bringing additional vendors and attractions to downtown.