Revving Up for the Huskie Motorsports Car and Bike Show: A Celebration of Automotive Passion and Engineering Excellence

DeKALB, Illinois – Car enthusiasts, gear up for an exciting event that's set to rev up the streets of Northern Illinois University (NIU). The second annual Huskie Motorsports Car and Bike Show is gearing up to showcase the best of automotive engineering and design, bringing together car fanatics and the local community for a day of automotive celebration.

Unleash Your Automotive Passion at the Huskie Motorsports Car and Bike Show

Showcasing Student-Built Formula Race Cars

The Huskie Motorsports Car and Bike Show is more than just a display of stunning vehicles; it's a testament to the engineering prowess of NIU students. The event is hosted by the NIU Huskie Motorsports, a student-led Formula SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) team that designs and builds a formula-style race car each year. These students pour their hearts and minds into creating high-performance vehicles that they will take to compete against other schools in the annual Formula SAE competition.The Formula SAE competition is a prestigious design challenge where students from around the world come together to showcase their engineering skills. By participating in this event, the NIU Huskie Motorsports team not only gains valuable hands-on experience but also has the opportunity to showcase their hard work and dedication to the local community.

A Diverse Array of Automotive Marvels

The second annual Huskie Motorsports Car and Bike Show promises to be a true feast for the senses, with a diverse array of vehicles on display. From sleek sports cars to classic muscle cars and even custom-built motorcycles, the event will offer something for every automotive enthusiast. The organizers are aiming to attract between 50 to 100 cars and bikes, a significant increase from the 40 vehicles showcased at last year's inaugural event.The show will not only be a visual delight but also a chance for car enthusiasts to connect with like-minded individuals, share their passion, and learn from each other. Whether you're a seasoned car collector or a budding automotive enthusiast, the Huskie Motorsports Car and Bike Show is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of automotive excellence.

Fueling the Future of Automotive Engineering

The Huskie Motorsports Car and Bike Show is more than just a car show; it's a platform for the NIU Huskie Motorsports team to showcase their skills and raise funds for their future endeavors. All the proceeds from the event will go towards building a new car for the team to take to the Formula SAE competition in Michigan next year."Every dollar is getting spent to build a car," says Alex Gernenz, a senior engineering major and the president of NIU Huskie Motorsports. "In every car-guy's dream, that's where the money should be going."The team's dedication to their craft is evident in their commitment to using the funds raised from the car show to further their engineering prowess. By investing in the development of their Formula SAE race car, the Huskie Motorsports team is not only honing their skills but also inspiring the next generation of automotive engineers.

A Community Celebration of Automotive Passion

The Huskie Motorsports Car and Bike Show is more than just a showcase of automotive excellence; it's a community celebration that brings together car enthusiasts, local businesses, and the NIU community. The event will feature food trucks, drinks, and desserts, providing a festive atmosphere for attendees to enjoy.In addition to the vehicle displays, the show will also feature vendor booths, where a portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Huskie Motorsports team. This collaborative effort not only supports the team's endeavors but also fosters a sense of community and shared passion for the automotive industry."We attend community events to promote the car, promote the school and the College of Engineering," Gernenz explains. "On top of that, it's just building the foundation of our members to help them post graduation. It gives them a lot more experience and makes them more valuable on the job market."The Huskie Motorsports Car and Bike Show is a testament to the power of community, where automotive enthusiasts can come together to celebrate their shared love for all things automotive, while also supporting the next generation of engineering talent.

The Legacy of Chad McQueen: Honoring His Father's Memory Through Automotive Passion

Chad McQueen, the only son and last living child of legendary actor Steve McQueen, passed away on September 11th at the age of 63. McQueen's life was deeply intertwined with his father's legacy, and he dedicated much of his time to preserving and celebrating that legacy through the annual Friends of Steve McQueen Car and Motorcycle Show held at the Boys Republic in Chino Hills, California.

Carrying on the McQueen Automotive Legacy

A Lifelong Passion for Automobiles

Chad McQueen's love for automobiles was undoubtedly inherited from his father, Steve McQueen, who was known for his on-screen driving prowess and off-screen passion for racing. From a young age, Chad was immersed in the world of cars and motorcycles, learning the intricacies of their mechanics and design. This passion would later shape the course of his life, as he sought to honor his father's memory through the annual car show.

Growing up, Chad was surrounded by his father's impressive collection of vehicles, which included everything from classic muscle cars to high-performance sports cars. He spent countless hours tinkering with these machines, honing his skills and developing a deep understanding of their inner workings. This hands-on experience would prove invaluable as he embarked on his own automotive ventures later in life.

Chad's fascination with automobiles extended beyond just his father's collection. He was an avid collector in his own right, amassing a impressive array of vintage and modern vehicles that reflected his eclectic tastes. From rare European sports cars to iconic American muscle, Chad's garage was a testament to his diverse automotive interests and his commitment to preserving automotive history.

Honoring His Father's Legacy

The Friends of Steve McQueen Car and Motorcycle Show was Chad's way of honoring his father's legacy and sharing his passion for automobiles with the world. The event, which has been held annually since 2008, brings together car enthusiasts, collectors, and fans of Steve McQueen to celebrate the actor's enduring influence on the automotive world.

The show features a wide range of vehicles, from the classic Mustangs and Porsches that Steve McQueen famously drove on the silver screen to the latest high-performance supercars that reflect the evolution of automotive technology. Each year, the event attracts thousands of visitors, who come to admire the stunning array of vehicles on display and learn more about the life and legacy of the legendary actor.

For Chad, the car show was more than just a celebration of his father's legacy; it was a way to give back to the community that had played a significant role in shaping Steve McQueen's life. The event was held at the Boys Republic in Chino Hills, the same institution where his father had spent time as a teenager, and a portion of the proceeds from the show were donated to the organization to support its ongoing work with at-risk youth.

A Lasting Impact on the Automotive Community

Through his tireless efforts to organize the Friends of Steve McQueen Car and Motorcycle Show, Chad McQueen left an indelible mark on the automotive community. The event not only celebrated his father's legacy but also inspired a new generation of car enthusiasts to embrace the thrill and beauty of classic and modern automobiles.

Beyond the car show, Chad was also actively involved in various automotive organizations and initiatives. He served on the board of directors for the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles, lending his expertise and passion to the institution's efforts to preserve and showcase the history of the automobile. He was also a frequent contributor to automotive publications, sharing his insights and perspectives on the industry he loved so dearly.

Chad's impact on the automotive community extended far beyond his own personal achievements. By sharing his father's story and inspiring others to follow in his footsteps, he helped to cement the McQueen family's legacy as one of the most iconic and influential in the world of automobiles. His passing is a profound loss for the car enthusiast community, but his spirit and passion will continue to live on through the events and initiatives he helped to create.

Revving Up for the Ultimate Car Enthusiast Experience: Benson's Classic Car Show Off Main

Benson, Arizona is gearing up for a thrilling event that will captivate car enthusiasts and families alike. The Benson Clean & Beautiful organization is hosting the Classic Car Show Off Main at Lion's Park, showcasing a diverse array of vintage and modern vehicles while raising funds for community projects that enhance the city's character and civic pride.

Unleash Your Inner Gearhead at Benson's Premier Car Showcase

Celebrating the Timeless Allure of Classic Automobiles

The Classic Car Show Off Main is a testament to the enduring passion for vintage automobiles. From pre-1970 cars to the sleek designs of the 2000s, the event promises to take visitors on a journey through automotive history. Enthusiasts will have the opportunity to admire the meticulous restorations and unique customizations that have breathed new life into these iconic machines.The competition is fierce, with teams of experienced judges carefully evaluating each entry across five distinct classes: pre-1970 cars, trucks, cars from 1970 to 2000, "Rat Rods," and cars built in the 2000s. The attention to detail and craftsmanship on display will leave attendees in awe, as they witness the dedication and skill of the car owners who have poured their hearts and souls into these beloved vehicles.

Empowering the Next Generation of Car Enthusiasts

Benson Clean & Beautiful has recognized the importance of engaging the younger generation in the world of classic cars. This year, the event will feature three additional awards voted on by the attendees: the People's Choice, Kids' Choice, and Best Motorcycle. By giving the community a voice in selecting their favorites, the organizers are fostering a sense of ownership and excitement among car enthusiasts of all ages."Our car show has always been a family affair, but we wanted the children to have the chance to make their choice for the best vehicle," said Traci Wilson, treasurer for Benson Clean & Beautiful. "This added element not only encourages family participation but also nurtures the next generation of car enthusiasts, ensuring the legacy of these timeless machines lives on."

Fueling Community Engagement and Civic Pride

The Classic Car Show Off Main is more than just a showcase of automotive excellence; it's a celebration of Benson's community spirit. The funds raised through car entry fees, prize drawings, and merchandise sales will directly support the organization's efforts to beautify the city, including the creation of new outdoor murals on local businesses and the maintenance of existing ones."Funds raised through car entry fees, prize drawings and merchandise sales go directly to fund new outdoor murals on local businesses, maintenance of existing murals and community projects that add to the character and civic pride of Benson," the organization stated in a press release.By investing in these community-driven initiatives, Benson Clean & Beautiful is not only preserving the city's unique character but also fostering a sense of pride and belonging among its residents. The Classic Car Show Off Main serves as a platform to bring the community together, celebrate their shared love for automobiles, and contribute to the ongoing efforts to enhance the city's visual appeal and community spirit.

A Day of Automotive Excitement and Family Fun

The Classic Car Show Off Main promises to be a day filled with excitement and entertainment for the entire family. In addition to the impressive car displays, the event will feature live music, raffle drawings, and a variety of vendor booths offering a diverse selection of food trucks."The competition is very tough, so we have teams of judges grading each entry. There is tabulation that goes on right at the end of the show and no one knows who are the winners are until the end of the show," said Amanda Jansen, secretary of Benson Clean & Beautiful.The anticipation and suspense of the award announcements will only add to the electric atmosphere, as attendees eagerly await the reveal of the top contenders in each category. Whether you're a seasoned car enthusiast or simply looking for a fun-filled day out, the Classic Car Show Off Main promises to deliver an unforgettable experience that celebrates the rich automotive heritage of Benson.