Cornell’s Auto Parts Car Show: A Celebration of Cars and Community
On May 3, 2025, Cornell’s Used Auto Parts in Greenfield Center, New York, will host its third annual car show, a vibrant event that combines automotive passion with community giving. This year, the event will raise funds for Folds of Honor New York, supporting scholarships and aid for families of fallen soldiers and first responders. With over 800 people already expressing interest on Facebook, the show promises to be the biggest yet, aiming to surpass $10,000 in donations. Set at 62 South Greenfield Road, the event will run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., offering a day of classic cars, food, trophies, and camaraderie.
Cornell’s Used Auto Parts, the driving force behind the event, is a second-generation, family-owned salvage yard established in 1972. Led by general manager Mike Colvett and owner Casey Cornell, the business spans 30 acres, housing around 1,600 vehicles and employing over 45 staff members with six delivery trucks. Unlike the “junkyards” of old—where customers scavenged for parts in disorganized lots—Cornell’s is a modern operation. Its inventory is meticulously tracked through a computer system, with every part photographed, cleaned, and quality-checked before delivery or pickup. “You call us, let us know what you need, and we pull it for you,” Colvett explains, highlighting the shift from rusty, self-service yards to a professional, customer-focused model.
The company’s commitment to quality extends to its partnerships. As part of Team PRP Northeast, Cornell’s accesses over a million parts through a network of 20 recyclers. Each night, parts are exchanged at a hub in Albany, ensuring next-day delivery of pre-tested, cleaned components. “You wouldn’t know if a part came from us or a partner—it’s all up to the same standard,” Colvett says. This network allows Cornell’s to serve everyone from DIY mechanics to auto shops, offering engines, transmissions, tail lights, and more at a fraction of OEM costs, backed by a standard six-month warranty and optional extended labor warranties.
Sustainability is also a priority. Unlike old-school yards that let fluids leak into the ground, Cornell’s drains all vehicle fluids upon arrival, recycling oil for winter heating and sending antifreeze to specialized companies. Even their pressure washer uses a filtration system to recycle water, minimizing waste. These green initiatives challenge the outdated stigma of salvage yards, positioning Cornell’s as an environmentally conscious leader in the industry.
The car show itself began modestly in 2022 as a post-COVID cookout for employees and their families. Posted on Facebook, it drew an unexpected crowd, running out of food and T-shirts while raising $1,200 for the Franklin Community Center in Saratoga. In 2023, the event grew, attracting over 150 cars and 300–400 attendees, raising $6,500 for Double H Ranch in Lake Luzerne. This year, Colvett anticipates around 200 cars, from 1920s classics to 2024 trucks, filling the parking lot and nearby fields owned by Casey Cornell and his uncle. “You’ll see muscle cars, modern cars, trucks, motorcycles—everything,” Colvett says, noting his personal favorite, a 1970 Chevelle with iconic roof stripes.
The event is a true community effort, with all staff volunteering their time to park cars, cook, and manage logistics. Planning began in January, covering food, merchandise, and volunteer coordination. Attendees can expect a relaxed vibe, with car enthusiasts mingling, lawn chairs in tow, and trophies awarded for categories like best modern car, best muscle car, and best in show, chosen by Folds of Honor representatives. Judges evaluate paint, interiors, and engines for the cleanest builds, sparking friendly debates among attendees.
Folds of Honor will enhance the event with flags lining the road and merchandise for sale, amplifying the patriotic spirit. “It’s near and dear to our hearts,” Colvett says, noting Cornell’s ongoing support through golf tournaments and other initiatives. To avoid scams, he advises registering only through him or Casey Cornell.
For more details, visit cornellsusedautoparts.com, call 518-893-0151, or check Cornell’s Auto Parts on Facebook and Instagram. The event’s Facebook page, “Third Annual Cornell’s Car Show,” offers updates. As Colvitt puts it, “You can’t miss us off Route 9.” Whether you’re a car enthusiast or just seeking a fun day out, this car show delivers, blending automotive history with a heartfelt cause.
