Electric Cars

An annual tradition in Colorado Springs brought life to Sierra High School's parking lot last Saturday, as the 41st Fiesta and Car Show unfolded with a vibrant display of music, dance, and vehicles. Organized by El Cinco de Mayo Inc., this event serves as a cultural celebration, bringing together food, entertainment, and automobiles that reflect Mexican and Hispanic heritage. The car show alone featured over 65 entries, many from enthusiasts who belong to local car clubs. This gathering not only highlights mechanical craftsmanship but also fosters connections among families and friends.

For three decades, Gaspar Martinez has been at the helm of organizing this event, emphasizing its role in uniting communities. He points out how generations participate together, with grandparents often joined by their grandchildren. One highlight of the exhibition was the presence of low riders—vehicles modified to ride close to the ground, symbolizing a longstanding tradition rooted in Southern California during the 1930s. These cars, along with hot rods, represent both personal expression and cultural pride. Amy Valerio, a long-time member of the City Wide Car Club, entered her custom purple Chevy Monte Carlo, complete with hydraulics, showcasing her passion for automotive artistry while inspiring younger women to embrace this typically male-dominated hobby.

Beyond the visual spectacle, the event carries deeper significance through charitable efforts. As a nonprofit, El Cinco de Mayo Inc. leverages these gatherings to fund scholarships for underprivileged students aspiring to higher education. Kelley Rodriguez, chair of the organization, notes partnerships with local institutions like the University of Colorado Colorado Springs and Pikes Peak State College, which enhance outreach within diverse communities. Additionally, toy drives during the holiday season extend goodwill to children in need. While attendance numbers vary year to year, the essence of fostering community remains constant. Such festivals transcend mere entertainment; they create spaces where people can connect, share traditions, and celebrate shared values, reinforcing the strength of unity amidst diversity.

A recent development has brought former heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez back into the public eye, though not through traditional MMA channels. Photographs from within Soledad State Prison have captured him at a unique event—an automobile show held inside the prison walls. This gathering, far removed from combat or legal proceedings, offers a fascinating glimpse into Velasquez's current reality as he serves his sentence for an incident involving the shooting of a man accused of assaulting his son. The event also sheds light on the prison's rehabilitation efforts, showcasing a side of Velasquez that contrasts sharply with his combative past.

Intriguingly, on May 19th, the prison grounds transformed into a vibrant scene reminiscent of a classic car show. Vintage vehicles, gleaming chrome finishes, and even a standout 1965 Buick Wildcat took center stage. Among this spectacle stood Velasquez, engaging casually with both inmates and staff, seemingly unfazed by the roaring engines around him. His presence there was no accident; Velasquez has long been passionate about automobiles, having previously participated in off-road racing events like the Mint 400 and explored high-performance vehicles outside the cage.

This particular car showcase, however, was part of a broader initiative aimed at prisoner rehabilitation. Organized with assistance from local car clubs and prison officials, the event underscored its importance to those involved. As one inmate noted, it served as a way to recognize the ongoing dedication of staff members committed to fostering positive change among prisoners. While the focus was not solely on Velasquez, his involvement added an unexpected dimension to the day’s activities.

Of course, Velasquez's journey to this point is marked by controversy. In 2022, he made headlines after pursuing and firing upon a man linked to an attack on his young son. Although missing his intended target, he injured another individual, leading to criminal charges. Accepting a no-contest plea, Velasquez began serving a sentence that might soon be shortened due to time already spent incarcerated. Despite these challenges, moments such as attending the prison car show reveal glimpses of normalcy amidst extraordinary circumstances.

The brief yet significant event highlights how Velasquez continues finding ways to engage meaningfully with his surroundings. For a brief period, he transcended labels of fallen hero or imprisoned fighter, simply appreciating fine machinery alongside fellow enthusiasts. Such scenes may bring comfort even to influential figures like Dana White, who previously advocated fervently on behalf of Velasquez during his legal struggles. Regardless of external opinions, Velasquez remains engaged in navigating personal battles tied to peace, stability, and potential redemption while confined within institutional boundaries.