Posted January 11, 2022 in Beatrice, Lifestyle
THE LOVE OF CLASSIC CARS
In 1972 a young Nebraska farmer and his bride drove their brand-new, Sundance Orange Pontiac LeMans GTO to Las Vegas on their honeymoon.
The car gave up the ghost some time in the 1980’s, and spent two decades in the corner of a machine shed, until Beatrice Insurance Agent Nora Zimmerman and her husband Dwayne, bought the dusty, rusty classic in 2008.
The GTO is one of many autos to be rescued and restored by Dwayne and Nora, and it’s one of two classic cars they own today.
Cars have always been a part of the Zimmerman’s life. “My husband is a mechanic in addition to being a farmer.” said Nora. “He’s had a love for cars, dating back to working with his dad on the cars he had in high school. After we got married we had a series of fun cars, not knowing at the time what they would be worth today. Being a mechanic, Dwayne bought and sold cars until we bought into farming in the 80’s and money got a little tight. Eventually, he purchased and restored a 1970 Chevelle, and since has restored several others. He does nearly all of the work on our cars, except for paint.”
Weekends frequently find Nora and Dwayne with friends at shows for classic and collector cars, and they often get there in Nora’s 1965 Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu Convertible.
“I had always wanted a convertible, and friends helped us locate a 1965 Chevelle at a salvage yard. We had to do a bonded title, as the last owner of the car was deceased. Once the title was secured, restoration began and we finished in 2012.” Nora recalled. “I drive the convertible when we go to shows, or out for a Sunday drive with the top down. It is a really fun car.”
Nora’s four decades as a licensed insurance agent has intersected with her car hobby in an interesting way: She’s become an expert in the specialized field of collector vehicle insurance. “Collector policies are designed for vehicle owners who belong to car clubs, participate in hobby activities and enjoy pleasure drives.” said Nora. “Damage to collector vehicles is not covered under the typical homeowner’s policy.”
“I’m glad to be in a position to help my fellow hobbyists understand this important aspect of collector car ownership. We love our cars!”
Visit with Nora today on a classic car policy!
