Electric Cars

In a vibrant celebration of automotive history and community spirit, the Queen Esther No. 12 Order of the Eastern Star in Rathdrum recently hosted a car show to support scholarships for local students. Held on May 3, this event attracted sixty entrants showcasing their prized vehicles from various eras. Beyond the spectacle of classic cars, over two thousand dollars' worth of donated items were raffled off as part of the fundraising efforts. The funds raised resulted in seven $500 scholarships being awarded to deserving high school seniors within Kootenai County.

A Celebration of Vintage Vehicles and Generosity

On a picturesque day in early spring, Rathdrum became the hub of nostalgia and generosity as enthusiasts gathered for an extraordinary car exhibition. This event not only highlighted the beauty of vintage automobiles but also underscored the importance of educational support within the community. Among the winners was Paul Brock, whose stunning 1936 Ford Coupe took home top honors by clinching both "Best 1930 and Older" and "Best of Show." Other notable mentions included Tom Dickerson's sleek 1946 Ford Coupe for the '40s category, Mike Miller's iconic 1955 Ford Fairlane representing the '50s, and many more across different decades.

The farthest traveler award went to Randy Strawn, who journeyed an impressive 168 miles from Waterville, Washington, just to participate in this remarkable gathering. Community engagement reached new heights when attendees voted Sven Roaldson's 1974 Chevy Corvette as the People’s Choice winner, while Dave Harris captured Ladies’ Choice with his 1966 Ford Falcon.

Ultimately, these efforts translated into meaningful financial aid for seven graduating seniors from schools such as Coeur d’Alene High School, Lake City High School, Lakeland High School, and Timberlake High School.

One memorable moment came when Paul Brock stood alongside Marchella Layton and Chuck Rose after claiming not one but two prestigious trophies at the Rathdrum car show.

From a journalistic perspective, this story serves as a powerful reminder of how communities can unite around shared interests like classic cars to foster education and opportunity. It demonstrates that even small towns possess immense potential to make significant impacts through collective action. As readers, we are inspired by such initiatives that blend passion with purpose, creating lasting legacies beyond mere events. Such endeavors highlight the strength found in collaboration and serve as models for other communities seeking similar outcomes.

This year marks the final journey of the Krusin Klassics Fun Run down Ludington Street in Escanaba, Michigan. For four decades, this classic car parade has grown from a modest event with just 10 cars to a major attraction featuring hundreds of vehicles. However, due to various factors, including the aging of its founders, the club has decided to pass the torch. Despite its conclusion, the spirit of the event will continue under the new name "Ludington Street Cruise," organized by the Escanaba Downtown Development Authority (DDA). This transition ensures that the community’s cherished tradition lives on.

The decision to end the Krusin Klassics Fun Run comes after an impressive evolution over the years. Initially a small gathering, it now draws hundreds of participants annually. The DDA is committed to preserving the essence of the parade while relocating the event entirely to Ludington Street next year. This change reflects the organizers' desire to keep the tradition alive in a central location, allowing for even more participants and spectators. Meanwhile, this year's car show remains at the U.P. State Fairgrounds, offering one last glimpse of the original format.

Forty Years of Wheels and Wonders

For four decades, the Krusin Klassics Car Club has been the heart of Escanaba's automotive culture. What began as a simple gathering of enthusiasts showcasing their prized vehicles has transformed into a beloved annual spectacle. Live music now sets the tone before Friday night's parade, attracting crowds eager to witness the dazzling array of vintage automobiles. Over the years, the event has expanded significantly, reflecting not only the growth of the club but also its deep roots in the local community.

In 1985, the first Krusin Klassics parade featured just 10 cars, yet it captured the imagination of residents and visitors alike. By the time of its final run, participation had swelled to between 400 and 600 vehicles, demonstrating its enduring appeal. Mark Caswell, the club president, acknowledges the difficult decision to retire the event, citing the natural progression of time and the challenges faced by an aging group of volunteers. Nevertheless, the legacy of Krusin Klassics endures through its profound impact on Escanaba's cultural landscape. As Craig Woerpel of the DDA notes, the club's contributions cannot be overstated, having shaped countless memories and fostered connections among car lovers.

A New Chapter for Ludington Street

With the closure of the Krusin Klassics era, a fresh chapter begins for Escanaba's iconic parade. The DDA steps in to ensure continuity, renaming the event the "Ludington Street Cruise." This reimagined version retains the charm of its predecessor while embracing a new setting. Moving the entire event to Ludington Street offers logistical advantages, accommodating larger numbers of vehicles and providing a vibrant backdrop for future editions. The transition aims to honor the past while invigorating the tradition with renewed energy.

Woerpel explains that the relocation idea originated from the Krusin Klassics themselves, who approached the DDA with a vision for sustaining the event. Ludington Street, boasting the longest downtown stretch in Michigan, provides ample space for up to 600 cars if needed. This strategic move ensures accessibility and visibility for all attendees, enhancing the overall experience. While this year's car show remains at the U.P. State Fairgrounds, serving as a bridge between old and new formats, next year's edition will fully embrace the downtown locale. Thus, the spirit of Krusin Klassics continues to thrive, adapted to modern needs while staying true to its origins.