SENNETT - Several Auburn Correctional Facility employees had their iconic cars washed, waxed and on display for the public Sunday, giving people a peak into their lives outside the prison walls.

The deep rumble of a muscle car's engine often signaled the arrival of another participant as employees slowly filed into the correction facility's recreation center's parking lot throughout the day.

Each new arrival often attracted a small crowd of spectators who moved from one car to the next, eagerly waiting to see what other pieces of automotive history pulled in.

While the event was open to the public, car entries were limited to active and retired prison employees, including civilian staff and corrections officers.

“We want to recognize what these people have done and let them know we appreciate their services,” said Marcus Babb, who helped organize the car show. “We also want to appreciate their hobby because this is what keeps them sane. This is what they spend their time and money on, and we want to recognize that.”

Greg Binion, a correction officer, said he appreciated what the car show tried to accomplish by bringing both employees and the public together to share in a common passion.

While attendance was smaller than he would have liked, Binion said he understood the first year of any event is often the hardest since people don't always believe it will succeed.

“I do wish more people came out, but I will be back here next year,” Binion said. “It will give me an extra chance to take the car out. I am always looking for an excuse to do that.”

Corrections officer Mike Delaney said he believed the camaraderie fostered by the car show was important for promoting a better work atmosphere.

While he knew several of the participants from work, Delaney, who arrived in a 1968 Oldsmobile 442, admitted he did not know some of them shared his passion for cars.

“I know the guy that owns the GTO, but I never knew he owned the car,” Delaney said, referring to Binion. “I really want to talk to him about the car.”

While many classic cars are often pampered garage beauties, Delaney said he liked to share his vehicle either by letting his family drive it or by letting others get a close up look at his ongoing projects.

Delaney said he already spent $2,000 to replace the car's interior and planned to put in a new headliner next.

Delaney also admitted he spent extra money to repair the car after one of his children got into a minor accident, smashing in the front end.

Despite the damage, Delaney said he considered it a chance to spend more time working on his car.

“I really wanted to flash the car, that's what shows are all about,” Delaney said. “Some people don't let others touch or drive their car, but my family drives this car. How great is it to be a 16 year old getting a chance to drive a car like this for your last day of school?”

While the event started out slow, Babb said he felt confident by the end of the day that the participation was an indication that the show was successful.

“If we can do this show again next year, then I know it was a success,” Babb said.

Staff writer Nate Robson can be reached at 253-5311 ext. 248 or nathan.robson@lee.net