Northwood University's Iconic Auto Show Revs Up for 61st Edition

Northwood University's International Auto Show, a renowned annual tradition, is gearing up for its 61st edition, set to captivate audiences from October 6-8, 2024, in Midland, Michigan. This student-run event, the largest outdoor new car show in North America, promises an immersive experience for automotive enthusiasts and the general public alike.

Shift into Gear for an Unforgettable Automotive Showcase

Unveiling the 61st NUIAS: A Tradition of Excellence

Northwood University students are meticulously preparing for the 61st Northwood University International Auto Show (NUIAS), an event that has become a hallmark of the institution's commitment to hands-on learning and industry engagement. This year's theme, "Shift into Gear," pays homage to the inspiring words of a mentor in the automotive industry, who encouraged the team to approach each day with passion and determination.The NUIAS serves as a unique platform for students to apply their classroom knowledge in a real-world setting, promoting the automotive industry and drawing thousands of visitors to Northwood University each fall. This year's show will feature up to 500 vehicles from over 65 manufacturers, vendors, and private owners, including rare multi-million dollar hypercars curated from the Winkleman Collection, owned by a Northwood alumnus and long-time supporter.

Signature Events: Spotlighting Industry Leaders and Female Innovators

The 61st NUIAS is packed with exciting signature events, including two exclusive panels that will showcase industry leaders and female innovators in the automotive sector. On Friday, October 4th, the VIP Panel will feature forward-thinking strategies from prominent industry executives, who will discuss innovation, leadership, and future trends, offering a deep dive into the forces shaping the automotive industry.The Driven by Women: Automotive Roundtable, scheduled for Saturday, October 5th, will provide a platform for female leaders to share their challenges, successes, and perspectives on leadership and innovation. This event, held in partnership with CDK Global, continues to surpass expectations, offering attendees a fresh outlook on the industry.

Cars and Coffee Classic Car Show: A Celebration of Automotive Passion

To conclude the 61st NUIAS, the Cars and Coffee Classic Car Show on Sunday, October 6th will be a must-attend event for car enthusiasts and the general public alike. Attendees can look forward to an exciting day filled with incredible vehicles, live music, awards, coffee, and giveaways. The show is open to the public, and there is no cost to attend or participate, making it an accessible and inclusive celebration of automotive passion.

Student-Driven Excellence: The Backbone of the NUIAS

The Northwood University International Auto Show is entirely run by students, who serve on an executive board and oversee every aspect of the event, from planning to execution. These dedicated individuals hail from various regions across Michigan and the United States, bringing diverse perspectives and a shared passion for the automotive industry.The executive board members, each with their own unique roles and responsibilities, work tirelessly to ensure the success of the 61st NUIAS. From operations and aftermarket to divisional chairs and marketing, these students are the driving force behind this renowned event, showcasing their skills and expertise in a real-world setting.The Northwood University International Auto Show is a testament to the institution's commitment to hands-on learning and industry engagement. As the 61st edition approaches, the campus and the surrounding community eagerly await the opportunity to "Shift into Gear" and experience the automotive excellence that has become synonymous with this annual tradition.

Uncovering the Remarkable Journey of Shannon Thornton: A Trailblazer in Journalism

Shannon Thornton's life has been a testament to her unwavering passion for journalism and her commitment to delivering truthful news. Born and raised in Livingston Parish, Shannon's journey has been marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence, a deep-rooted love for her community, and a steadfast determination to make a meaningful impact through her work.

Empowering the Community through Authentic Storytelling

Embracing Her Lifelong Calling

Shannon's journey in journalism began at a young age, as she discovered her innate talent for crafting compelling narratives and her unwavering desire to share the truth with the world. Her passion for delivering accurate and impactful news took root during her formative years, and it has remained a driving force throughout her career. After honing her skills at Louisiana State University, Shannon embarked on a professional path that has been marked by her dedication to the craft of journalism.

Navigating the Evolving Landscape of News

Despite a brief hiatus from the industry to explore other writing and editing roles, Shannon's heart has always remained firmly rooted in the world of news. Her return to journalism has been a homecoming, a chance to once again immerse herself in the dynamic and ever-changing landscape of news reporting. With a renewed sense of purpose and a wealth of experience, Shannon is poised to make a significant impact on the communities she serves, leveraging her expertise to deliver stories that captivate, inform, and inspire.

Fostering Connections and Building Trust

At the heart of Shannon's approach to journalism is a deep-seated commitment to fostering meaningful connections with her audience. She understands the power of authentic storytelling and the importance of building trust with the communities she serves. By listening intently, empathizing with the experiences of her subjects, and crafting narratives that resonate on a personal level, Shannon has established herself as a trusted voice in the world of news.

Embracing the Challenges of Modern Journalism

The world of journalism is constantly evolving, and Shannon has embraced the challenges that come with navigating this dynamic landscape. From adapting to the rapid pace of digital media to navigating the complexities of fact-checking and ethical reporting, Shannon has demonstrated a remarkable ability to stay ahead of the curve, continuously honing her skills and adapting her approach to ensure that she remains a beacon of truth and integrity in an ever-changing industry.

Championing Diversity and Inclusion

Alongside her commitment to delivering accurate and impactful news, Shannon is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion in the field of journalism. She recognizes the importance of amplifying diverse voices and perspectives, and she has dedicated herself to creating a more inclusive and representative media landscape. Through her work, Shannon has become a role model for aspiring journalists, inspiring them to embrace their unique backgrounds and experiences and to use their platforms to give voice to the underrepresented.

A Lifelong Commitment to Excellence

Throughout her career, Shannon has consistently demonstrated a relentless pursuit of excellence, driven by her unwavering dedication to her craft and her deep-rooted desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those she serves. Whether she is navigating the complexities of breaking news or crafting in-depth feature stories, Shannon approaches her work with a level of professionalism, attention to detail, and a commitment to accuracy that is truly unparalleled.

A Passion for Community and Family

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Shannon's life is a testament to the importance of balance and the power of community. She has found a cherished home in Livingston Parish, where she resides with her husband and their pack of cuddly, rambunctious dogs. This close-knit community has not only nurtured Shannon's growth as a journalist but has also provided her with a deep sense of belonging and a wellspring of inspiration for her work.As Shannon Thornton continues to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of journalism, her story serves as a shining example of the transformative power of passion, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of truth. Her journey is a testament to the enduring impact that a single individual can have on their community and the world at large, and her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire generations of journalists to come.

Revving Up for the 24th Annual Fall Harvest Car Show: A Celebration of Automotive Passion and Community

The 24th Annual Fall Harvest Car Show, a highly anticipated event in the local community, recently concluded with a resounding success. Over the course of three days, from Friday evening to Sunday morning, the show displayed an impressive array of 280 registered cars, motorcycles, and tractors, captivating the hearts of automotive enthusiasts and the general public alike.

Driving Towards a Brighter Future: The Fall Harvest Car Show's Impact

Community Collaboration and Civic Support

The Fall Harvest Car Show was made possible through the unwavering support and collaboration of the City of Fort Morgan, its various departments, and a dedicated team of organizers and volunteers. The parks, street, electric, and police departments played a crucial role in ensuring the smooth running of the event, while the city's leadership, including Mayor Dr. Kevin Lindell and the Fort Morgan City Council, provided invaluable guidance and resources. The Morgan County Commissioners and over 60 generous sponsors also contributed to the event's success, showcasing the community's commitment to celebrating its automotive heritage.

Recognizing the Driving Force: The Fall Harvest Car Show Committee

The 2024 Fall Harvest Car Show Committee was instrumental in the event's organization and execution. Led by Co-Presidents Dave Cornwell and Brad Parker, Vice-President Melvin Kallsen, Secretary Kelsi Hall, and Treasurer Betty McKie, the committee members worked tirelessly to bring the show to life. Committee members Doug Bolen, Bob Bragg, Scott Hicks, Tim Grauberger, Tony Grosso, Kelsi Hall, Brian McCracken, Laura McCracken, Jim McKie, Tim Wunsch, and Don Brainard dedicated their time and expertise to ensure the event's success.

Honoring the Next Generation: Scholarships for MCC Students

A highlight of the Fall Harvest Car Show was the awarding of scholarships to Morgan Community College (MCC) Collision Repair and Auto Technology students. Funded through registration fees, these scholarships have become a long-standing tradition at the event, recognizing and supporting the next generation of automotive professionals. Instructors Brad Parker and Tim Grauberger presented the scholarships, totaling $2,000, to Collision Repair students Jazmin Talamantes, Enrique Ordaz, Joel Salazar, and David Carrillo, as well as Auto Technology students Etienne Le Blanc, Edgar Arroyo, Blake Covelli, and Bryan Jimenez.

Celebrating Automotive Excellence: Special Awards and Recognitions

The Fall Harvest Car Show featured a variety of special awards and recognitions, honoring the exceptional vehicles and their owners. For the 24th consecutive year, Larry and Shirley Harris of Larry's Auto Body sponsored trophies for the best cars owned by young adults aged 16 to 21. The top four in the Young Adult Class were Jesson Araujo (1969 Mercury Cougar, Red), Alyssa Herman (1967 Chevrolet Camaro, Black and Silver), Ayonna Herman (1966 Chevrolet Nova, Blue), and Jackson Hunter (1969 Chevrolet Chevelle, Silver).Other notable awards included the Police Chief Award, presented to Terry Winberg for his 1969 Chevelle SS; the Fire Chief Award, given to Robert Reckard for his 1959 Autobianchi Bianchina (Red); the Coty Griffith Memorial Best Paint Award, won by Anthony Herman for his 1966 Chevrolet Chevelle (Blue); and the Millennium Award, sponsored by G L Roofing, which was awarded to Jerry Weimer for his 2017 3702 Nissan.The event also recognized the winners in the Tractor and Motorcycle classes, showcasing the diverse range of automotive enthusiasts in attendance.

Honoring Cherished Memories: Memorial Awards

The Fall Harvest Car Show paid tribute to the legacies of beloved community members through several memorial awards. The Devon Bender Memorial Pick was awarded to Jim Potts for his 1963 Chevrolet C-10 (Black), while the Friends of Rhonda Hamann Memorial Award went to Gene Guerrero for his 1955 Chevy Belair (Black Cherry). The Cheryl Baumgartner Memorial Award was presented to Thomas Robertson for his 1958 Chevy Impala Two-door Hardtop (White).

Celebrating the Top 50: A Showcase of Automotive Artistry

The Fall Harvest Car Show culminated with the announcement of the Top 50 winners, recognizing the exceptional vehicles that captivated the audience. From classic Shelby Cobras and Oldsmobile Cutlasses to meticulously restored Ford Roadsters and Chevrolet Bel Airs, the diversity and craftsmanship on display were truly remarkable. Each vehicle, with its unique story and attention to detail, contributed to the event's overall splendor and left a lasting impression on all in attendance.The Fall Harvest Car Show has become a cherished tradition in the community, celebrating the passion for automotive excellence and the rich heritage that binds enthusiasts together. As the curtain falls on another successful edition, the anticipation for the 25th anniversary event in 2025 continues to build, promising an even more extraordinary showcase of automotive artistry and community spirit.