by Jessica Carreras
Adam Bernard is the director of invitationals for the Lambda Car Club's Detroit Chapter, and also works by day at General Motors. He's also a blogger about cars, gay issues, cooking, TV and more. His group is hosting the Motown 2010 Grand Invitational, featuring automotive and historical tours, fundraising events, special guests and, of course, lots of cars.
1 What sparked your love of cars?
Strangely enough, no one in my family works in the business; my Uncle Ed is the only real 'car guy' in the family. I honestly can't remember exactly where it started – I'm told my dad started bringing home Matchbox cars from work when I was 3 years old and apparently they fascinated me. I progressed from there into building model cars, racing slot cars, subscribing to car magazines, and finally a job at General Motors.
2 How did you get involved with the Lambda Car Club?
Back in 2000, GM sponsored one of the dinners at the last Detroit-area invitational, and they provided a couple of concept cars to display. I had never heard of the club, but was asked to attend the dinner in case anyone had any questions about the cars, and so I essentially stumbled into this group of LGBT car enthusiasts.
When I met my partner a year later, he joined as well (eventually picking up a classic Lincoln to show off), and I've become increasingly involved ever since.
3 Why do you think it's important to have a gay-specific club for car enthusiasts?
What could be more fun than hanging out with people who share your enthusiasm for cars where you can just be yourself? It's a great opportunity to make new friends, both locally and – through the national invitationals – from all over the country.
4 What event are you most excited about in the upcoming Motown 2010 Grand Invitational?
The highlight for me will definitely be the Saturday, July 31 show, where we expect nearly 200 cars and trucks. From Italian exotics to pre-war Buicks to disco-era Lincolns, our vehicles are as diverse as our membership. It's also the best time to catch up with friends from out of town we haven't seen for a while.
5 What's your favorite car and why?
Wow – always a tough question for a hardcore enthusiast. I love my classic Mini, but would love to get my hands on a first-generation Buick Riviera to the fleet (if only we had room), and am currently lusting after a Cadillac CTS-V Coupe.
To learn more about the Lambda Car Club Detroit Chapter, or to check out events for Motown 2010, visit http://www.lccdetroit.org.
