A unique initiative is set to take place at Clearfield High School, where students from the Latinos in Action (LIA) program are organizing a car show and pop-up market. Scheduled for Saturday, April 26, 2025, this event aims not only to raise funds but also to showcase student-led entrepreneurship. The gathering will feature an array of activities including raffles, vendor booths, live music, carnival games, and food trucks offering complimentary vouchers.
This community-focused event serves as a platform for students to develop their leadership abilities while contributing positively to society. Lori Bunnell, the LIA club advisor, emphasizes that the primary objective of the program is to inspire Latino youth to become active contributors within their communities. Students have been actively engaging with local businesses since fall, soliciting sponsorships and donations for raffles—a key aspect of the fundraising strategy. Their efforts reflect months of preparation, highlighting dedication and commitment towards making a difference.
Beyond the upcoming event, the LIA program offers an innovative approach to addressing educational disparities by fostering positive change within the system. Founded in 2001, it operates as a year-long elective course designed for middle, junior high, and high school students. At Clearfield, two active LIA classes each accommodate around twenty students who focus on mentoring younger peers, enhancing leadership skills, preparing for college or workforce entry, studying influential Latino leaders, and discussing issues like racism and discrimination. For participants such as juniors Jordan Davis and seniors Carlos Martinez, LIA has significantly boosted their confidence levels and encouraged them to pursue higher aspirations. Martinez highlights how involvement in the program expanded his horizons, enabling him to overcome shyness and embrace challenges ranging from purchasing his first car to applying for scholarships.
The essence of LIA transcends ethnic boundaries, welcoming all students eager to effect meaningful change. By nurturing self-assurance and providing opportunities for growth, programs like these underscore the importance of empowering young individuals to lead and innovate. Such initiatives remind us of the transformative power education holds when paired with community engagement, paving the way for brighter futures for everyone involved.
A cherished vehicle, the 1972 Chevy Camaro SS396 owned by Bill Finley since he was seventeen, has emerged as an extraordinary relic of automotive history. After more than five decades in his possession, this muscle car made its first public appearance at the 2024 Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals in Rosemont, Illinois. Finley's decision to keep the car intact for so long highlights its rarity and historical significance. With a limited production run due to a labor strike, this model remains one of the few surviving examples that have retained their original features.
Bill Finley's lifelong passion for his 1972 Chevy Camaro SS396 is evident in his dedication to preserving its authenticity. Purchased over fifty years ago, Finley chose this particular model anticipating its scarcity. His intuition proved correct, as only 970 SS396 Camaros were manufactured before production ceased due to a United Auto Workers strike at GM’s Norwood assembly plant. This rare gem, painted in Mulsanne Blue, still boasts its original powerhouse—a 300 hp 402-cubic-inch V8 engine branded as '396' for marketing purposes—and a Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 automatic transmission.
The car’s pristine condition is further highlighted by its low mileage—just 71,000 miles accumulated over five decades. It retains all factory-installed features, including soft-ray tinted glass, rally wheels, air conditioning, and a Positraction rear axle. Even the optional extras, which added significantly to the base price when purchased, reflect Finley's desire for both comfort and performance. In 2019, the vehicle underwent a meticulous rotisserie restoration, yet it preserves its original drivetrain and factory options, with Finley actively participating in sourcing period-correct parts.
This historic moment came to life during the 2024 Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals where the car was filmed by YouTuber Lou Costabile. Only a small fraction of the total 6,562 Camaro SS models produced in 1972 featured the SS396 variant, making Finley's example a true testament to American muscle car heritage. After half a century, the crowd finally had the opportunity to admire this near-untouched piece of automotive history.
Finley's enduring commitment to maintaining the integrity of his 1972 Chevy Camaro SS396 showcases the allure of classic American muscle cars. His decision to share this treasure with enthusiasts underscores the car's unique place in automotive lore, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of automotive excellence.
In the wake of escalating trade tensions, the automobile industry finds itself grappling with significant market disruptions. President Trump's recent tariffs have prompted a surge in consumer activity as buyers rush to purchase vehicles before anticipated price hikes take effect. In Colorado, new vehicle registrations surged by over 10% from January through March compared to the same period last year, according to the Colorado Automobile Dealers Association. As the Colorado Auto Show commences in Denver, industry leaders are addressing how these changes impact both dealers and consumers.
Market Dynamics and Consumer Guidance Amid Tariff Uncertainty
During the golden hues of autumn, the Colorado Auto Show brought together industry professionals and enthusiasts alike. Matthew Groves, head of the Colorado Automobile Dealers Association, shared insights into navigating the complex landscape shaped by tariffs. The final weeks of March witnessed an unprecedented spike in car sales as consumers scrambled to secure purchases ahead of potential cost increases. This trend underscores the urgency felt across the state, where dealers faced dwindling inventories just as the show was set to begin.
Groves emphasized that while some manufacturers absorb tariff costs to shield customers, others pass these expenses directly onto buyers. Consequently, selecting a vehicle has become increasingly intricate. Consumers are encouraged to collaborate closely with knowledgeable dealers who can guide them through financing options and model variations. Furthermore, the distinction between domestic and international brands has blurred due to globalized supply chains, making it essential for shoppers to inquire about specific components within each vehicle.
Despite advances in online purchasing platforms, traditional dealership models remain robust. Franchise dealers reported a remarkable 110% increase in electric vehicle (EV) sales during the first quarter, contrasting sharply with declining direct-to-consumer figures. Groves attributes this shift partly to consumer preference for immediate access and flexibility offered by physical lots rather than waiting months for custom orders.
Innovations Highlighted at the Show
Beyond practical considerations, the auto show showcased cutting-edge advancements such as Cadillac's all-electric lineup featuring luxurious amenities like massaging seats and individual entertainment systems. These features redefine passenger comfort, appealing to tech-savvy buyers seeking premium experiences.
The used car market remains tightly linked to its new counterpart, typically responding approximately one month later. With rising costs driven by tariffs, demand shifts toward pre-owned vehicles, driving up their prices accordingly. Groves anticipates prolonged retention periods among current owners alongside increased interest in certified pre-owned options during economically challenging times.
Persistent Preference for Utility Vehicles
Given Colorado's rugged terrain and unpredictable weather patterns, trucks and SUVs dominate local preferences, accounting for nearly 85% of total sales. Even amidst financial pressures, Groves believes residents will continue prioritizing utility and versatility provided by these robust models, reflecting their deep connection to outdoor lifestyles.
From a journalistic perspective, this situation highlights the resilience and adaptability required within the automotive sector. While tariffs introduce uncertainty, they also foster innovation and improved customer service practices. For readers, understanding these dynamics empowers smarter purchasing decisions amidst shifting economic landscapes.