Empowering Veterans: A Car Show Fueling Hope and Honor

In a heartwarming display of community support, a car show in Emporia, Kansas is set to make a profound impact on the lives of local veterans. The annual "Hope with Horsepower" event, organized by Beacon for Hope Suicide Prevention and Frank Lowery, is more than just a celebration of automotive excellence – it's a testament to the unwavering dedication to honoring those who have served our nation.

Revving Up for a Cause: Emporia's Car Show Supports Veterans' Journey to D.C.

A Tradition of Giving Back

The "Hope with Horsepower" car show is now in its third year, and the organizers are determined to make it bigger and better than ever. This event is a true labor of love, as it brings together car enthusiasts, community members, and veterans alike to celebrate the rich automotive heritage while raising funds for a noble cause.The car show welcomes all makes and models, with trophies awarded in 20 different classes. The $25 entry fee may seem like a small price to pay, but the impact it has on the lives of local veterans is immeasurable. The proceeds from the event will directly benefit the 2025 Honor Flight, a program that provides all-expenses-paid trips to Washington, D.C. for veterans to visit the monuments and memorials dedicated to their service.

Honoring Those Who Served

The Honor Flight program holds a special place in the hearts of many, as it offers veterans the opportunity to witness firsthand the tributes that have been erected in their honor. For those who have sacrificed so much for their country, this journey to the nation's capital is a deeply meaningful experience, one that allows them to reflect on their service and the sacrifices they have made.By supporting the "Hope with Horsepower" car show, attendees are not only enjoying a day filled with automotive splendor but also playing a vital role in making these Honor Flight trips a reality. The event's organizers, Melissa Owen of Beacon for Hope Suicide Prevention and Frank Lowery, are passionate about ensuring that every veteran in their community has the opportunity to visit the nation's capital and witness the monuments that stand as a testament to their bravery and dedication.

A Community Rallying Together

The "Hope with Horsepower" car show is more than just a gathering of car enthusiasts; it's a celebration of community spirit and a testament to the power of coming together for a greater good. In addition to the car show, attendees can look forward to a variety of other activities, including raffles, door prizes, vendors, and food trucks.The event's diverse offerings cater to a wide range of interests, ensuring that everyone who attends can find something to enjoy. Whether it's admiring the stunning vehicles on display, participating in the raffles, or indulging in delicious food, the "Hope with Horsepower" car show promises to be a memorable experience for all.But the true heart of the event lies in its ability to bring the community together in support of local veterans. By attending the car show and contributing to the Honor Flight program, attendees are not only enjoying a day of automotive excitement but also making a tangible difference in the lives of those who have served our country.

A Lasting Impact

The "Hope with Horsepower" car show is more than just a one-day event; it's a testament to the enduring spirit of community and the unwavering commitment to honoring those who have served. As the event continues to grow and evolve, the organizers are determined to make an even greater impact on the lives of local veterans.Through the funds raised at the car show, the 2025 Honor Flight will be able to provide more veterans with the opportunity to visit the nation's capital and witness the monuments that stand as a tribute to their service. This journey is not just a physical one, but an emotional and spiritual one as well, allowing veterans to find closure, healing, and a renewed sense of pride in their sacrifices.As the "Hope with Horsepower" car show continues to inspire and unite the community, the impact it has on the lives of local veterans will continue to reverberate for years to come. It's a testament to the power of coming together for a greater good, and a shining example of how a simple car show can make a profound difference in the lives of those who have served our country.

Automotive Artistry Shines at the Maple Leaf Festival Car Show

The Maple Leaf Festival Car Show has once again captivated the hearts of automotive enthusiasts, showcasing a stunning array of meticulously restored, modified, and unique vehicles. The winners of this year's event have been announced, each representing a different category that celebrates the passion and craftsmanship of their owners.

Unveiling the Automotive Masterpieces at the Maple Leaf Festival

Best of Show: A Timeless Ford Mustang Steals the Spotlight

The coveted "Best of Show" award was bestowed upon Kelly Bailey and his 1965 Ford Mustang. This iconic American muscle car, with its sleek lines and powerful presence, exemplifies the enduring appeal of classic automotive design. Bailey's Mustang, meticulously restored to its former glory, captivated the judges and attendees alike, showcasing the timeless beauty and performance that have made the Mustang a beloved icon in the automotive world.The Mustang's striking appearance, combined with its well-preserved condition, is a testament to the owner's dedication and attention to detail. From the gleaming chrome trim to the vibrant paint job, every aspect of this classic car has been lovingly maintained, ensuring that it remains a true representation of the era in which it was born. The Mustang's powerful engine and responsive handling have undoubtedly contributed to its enduring popularity, making it a worthy recipient of the prestigious "Best of Show" award.

Best Bike: Harley-Davidson's Iconic Presence Shines

The "Best Bike" award was presented to Tristan Dickinson and his Harley-Davidson motorcycle. Harley-Davidson's reputation for producing iconic, American-made motorcycles is well-established, and Dickinson's entry exemplified the brand's signature style and performance.The Harley-Davidson's bold, muscular design and rumbling exhaust note have long been synonymous with the thrill of open-road riding. Dickinson's bike, with its sleek lines and gleaming chrome accents, captured the essence of this legendary brand, showcasing the craftsmanship and attention to detail that have made Harley-Davidson a beloved choice among motorcycle enthusiasts.The "Best Bike" award not only recognizes the technical excellence of Dickinson's Harley-Davidson but also the deep emotional connection that many riders have with these iconic machines. The Maple Leaf Festival Car Show provides a platform for enthusiasts to celebrate the rich history and enduring appeal of these two-wheeled marvels.

Best Car: A Thunderbird's Timeless Elegance Shines

The "Best Car" award was presented to Ed Thomason and his 1963 Ford Thunderbird. The Thunderbird, with its sleek, sophisticated design and powerful performance, has long been a symbol of American automotive excellence.Thomason's Thunderbird, meticulously maintained and restored, exemplifies the timeless elegance and style that have made this model a coveted classic. The car's distinctive, sculpted body lines and luxurious interior appointments have captivated enthusiasts for generations, and Thomason's entry has clearly captured the hearts of the judges at the Maple Leaf Festival Car Show.The Thunderbird's blend of power, comfort, and refined aesthetics has made it a perennial favorite among car collectors and enthusiasts alike. Thomason's award-winning entry serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of this iconic American automobile, showcasing the passion and dedication that go into preserving these automotive masterpieces.

Best Hot Rod: A Studebaker Commauder Turns Heads

The "Best Hot Rod" award was presented to Marlin Johanson and his 1928 Studebaker Commauder. Hot rods, with their distinctive style and high-performance modifications, have long been a beloved part of automotive culture, and Johanson's entry has clearly captured the judges' attention.The Studebaker Commauder, with its sleek, streamlined design and powerful engine, embodies the spirit of the hot rod movement. Johanson's meticulous restoration and customization have transformed this vintage vehicle into a true automotive work of art, blending the classic lines of the Commauder with modern performance upgrades.The "Best Hot Rod" award not only recognizes the technical expertise and craftsmanship that went into Johanson's creation but also the passion and creativity that drive the hot rod community. This award serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of these modified, high-performance vehicles, which continue to captivate enthusiasts and inspire the next generation of automotive enthusiasts.

Best Modified Car: A Camaro Z-28 Showcases Cutting-Edge Customization

The "Best Modified Car" award was presented to Duane Roeder and his 1970 Chevrolet Camaro Z-28. The Camaro, with its iconic muscle car styling and performance, has long been a favorite among automotive enthusiasts, and Roeder's entry has taken this classic to new heights.Roeder's Camaro Z-28 showcases the incredible potential of modern automotive customization, with a host of performance upgrades and visual enhancements that have transformed the car into a true showstopper. From the powerful engine modifications to the custom paint job and interior appointments, every aspect of this Camaro has been meticulously crafted to create a truly unique and awe-inspiring vehicle.The "Best Modified Car" award recognizes the skill, creativity, and attention to detail that Roeder has poured into his Camaro. This award serves as a testament to the passion and ingenuity of the automotive customization community, where enthusiasts push the boundaries of what is possible with these iconic American muscle cars.

Best Modified Truck: A Chevy Silverado Stands Tall

The "Best Modified Truck" award was presented to Lance Hollis and his 2018 Chevrolet Silverado. Trucks have long been a staple of the automotive industry, and Hollis' entry has demonstrated the incredible potential for customization and personalization within this segment.Hollis' Silverado, with its striking appearance and impressive performance upgrades, has captured the attention of the judges and attendees alike. From the custom suspension and wheel setup to the unique exterior styling cues, every aspect of this truck has been meticulously crafted to create a truly one-of-a-kind vehicle.The "Best Modified Truck" award not only recognizes the technical expertise and craftsmanship that went into Hollis' creation but also the growing trend of truck enthusiasts seeking to personalize and enhance their vehicles beyond their factory specifications. This award serves as a testament to the versatility and adaptability of the modern truck, showcasing the endless possibilities for customization and personalization.

Best Rat Rod: A Dodge Rat Rod Embraces Rugged Charm

The "Best Rat Rod" award was presented to Mark Chalmers and his 1939 Dodge Rat Rod. Rat rods, with their unique, rough-hewn aesthetic and emphasis on function over form, have long been a beloved part of the automotive enthusiast community, and Chalmers' entry has clearly captured the judges' attention.Chalmers' Dodge Rat Rod, with its weathered, industrial-inspired appearance and purposeful modifications, embodies the spirit of the rat rod movement. The car's rugged charm and unapologetic embrace of its vintage roots have made it a standout among the diverse array of vehicles on display at the Maple Leaf Festival Car Show.The "Best Rat Rod" award recognizes the creativity, ingenuity, and passion that Chalmers has poured into his creation. This award serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of the rat rod movement, where enthusiasts celebrate the raw, uncompromising spirit of automotive customization and the preservation of automotive history.

Best Tractor: A Vintage John Deere A Shines

The "Best Tractor" award was presented to Tim Fischer and his 1936 John Deere A. While the Maple Leaf Festival Car Show is primarily focused on automobiles, the inclusion of vintage tractors serves as a nod to the agricultural heritage that has long been a part of the local community.Fischer's 1936 John Deere A, with its distinctive green and yellow color scheme and well-preserved condition, has captured the hearts of the judges and attendees alike. This tractor, a symbol of the hard work and ingenuity that have shaped the agricultural landscape, serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of these essential machines.The "Best Tractor" award recognizes the dedication and passion that Fischer has poured into preserving this piece of agricultural history. It also highlights the importance of celebrating the diverse array of vehicles that have played a crucial role in shaping our transportation and industrial landscapes.

Best Truck: A Timeless GMC 150 Stands Tall

The "Best Truck" award was presented to Michael Wickham and his 1951 GMC 150. Trucks, with their rugged design and practical utility, have long been a staple of the automotive industry, and Wickham's entry has clearly captured the judges' attention.Wickham's 1951 GMC 150, with its classic lines and well-maintained condition, exemplifies the enduring appeal of vintage trucks. The truck's sturdy construction and reliable performance have made it a beloved choice among enthusiasts, and Wickham's dedication to preserving this piece of automotive history is evident in the vehicle's pristine appearance.The "Best Truck" award not only recognizes the technical excellence and craftsmanship that went into Wickham's GMC 150 but also the deep emotional connection that many enthusiasts have with these iconic workhorses of the road. This award serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the truck, and the passion that drives enthusiasts to preserve and celebrate these essential vehicles.