Car Show
Street rods and heartfelt stories fuel 48th annual Color Run

Quincy's Vibrant Automotive Celebration: The Early Tin Dusters' Annual Color Run

Quincy, Illinois, played host to the 48th annual Color Run organized by the Early Tin Dusters car club on Saturday, October 19th. This beloved event drew enthusiasts from far and wide to the Gem City, showcasing a dazzling display of pre-1949 street rods that decorated the downtown area for the Shine and Show event. Visitors had the opportunity to interact with the owners of these meticulously restored vehicles, gaining insights into the passion and dedication that goes into preserving automotive history.

Revving Up Memories and Community Connections

A Lifelong Tradition

Nash Simmons, a member of the Early Tin Dusters, shared the deep-rooted significance of the event, recounting his own experiences. "I've been coming to this car show since I was younger than my son. We've always come to the Tin Dusters," Simmons reminisced. "This is my 2nd year of helping and being a member, and I've thoroughly enjoyed the club and the people you get to know and see every year at the car show. It's been a wonderful experience."

A Showcase of Automotive Artistry

According to Simmons, the event was expected to feature around 400 cars on display, each a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship and dedication of their owners. These pre-1949 street rods, meticulously restored and polished, captivated the attention of the crowds, offering a glimpse into the golden age of American automotive design.

Continuing the Tradition

For those who missed the opportunity to admire the cars in all their glory on Saturday, the event continued on Sunday, with the vehicles on display at Moorman Park from 7 am to 2 pm. This extended showcase allowed even more visitors to immerse themselves in the rich automotive heritage celebrated by the Early Tin Dusters.

A Diverse Lineup of Activities

In addition to the car show, the event offered a variety of activities for attendees to enjoy. On Sunday, the schedule included an 8 am to 10 am Poker Run at the Atrium, a 10:30 am to 11:30 am church service, a 12 pm flag presentation, and a 2 pm award ceremony. These diverse offerings ensured that there was something for everyone, catering to the diverse interests and preferences of the attendees.

Giving Back to the Community

The Color Run not only celebrated the passion for classic cars but also served as a fundraiser for a worthy cause. Proceeds from the event benefited Camp Callahan, a camp that provides enriching experiences for children and adults with special needs. Over the years, the Early Tin Dusters have raised an impressive sum of over $286,200 for this important initiative, demonstrating their commitment to making a positive impact on the community.

Looking Ahead to Next Year

The success of this year's Color Run has already set the stage for the 49th edition, scheduled to take place from October 17th to October 19th, 2024. Car enthusiasts and community members alike can mark their calendars and look forward to another exciting celebration of Quincy's vibrant automotive culture and the unwavering dedication of the Early Tin Dusters.
Driving Philanthropy: The Automotive Extravaganza Fueling Community Change

Revving Up for Charity: The Fat Guys Auto Parts Annual Car Show

On a chilly August day, the streets of Fort William were abuzz with the roar of engines and the excitement of car enthusiasts. The annual Fat Guys Auto Parts Car Show had arrived, drawing in hundreds of hot rod owners and spectators alike, all eager to celebrate their shared passion for automotive excellence while supporting a worthy cause.

Driving Towards a Brighter Future for Local Children

A Showcase of Automotive Artistry

The Fat Guys Auto Parts Car Show was a true feast for the senses, with rows upon rows of meticulously maintained and customized vehicles lining the streets. From sleek sports cars to classic muscle cars, each vehicle was a testament to the skill and dedication of its owner. Visitors wandered the event, marveling at the attention to detail and the stories behind these automotive masterpieces. Whether admiring the gleaming chrome, the vibrant paint jobs, or the powerful engines, the car show offered a captivating glimpse into the world of automotive passion.

A Community Celebration

The event was not just about the cars, but also about the people who came together to celebrate them. Families, friends, and car enthusiasts of all ages mingled, sharing stories and admiring the impressive displays. The atmosphere was one of camaraderie and excitement, with young and old alike reveling in the shared love of all things automotive. Food vendors and a beer garden added to the festive ambiance, ensuring that everyone in attendance could indulge in their favorite treats while immersing themselves in the car show experience.

A Charitable Cause

But the Fat Guys Auto Parts Car Show was more than just a celebration of cars; it was also a means to support a worthy cause. Since 2018, the event has been raising funds for the George Jeffrey Children's Foundation, a local organization dedicated to providing essential services and support to children in need. Through car registrations, individual and corporate donations, and beer sales, the car show has become a significant contributor to the foundation's efforts, raising close to $50,000 over the years.

A Rewarding Partnership

For the team at Fat Guys Auto Parts, hosting the annual car show is a labor of love. "The car show is a lot of work, but we love hosting it and we really like working with the team at George Jeffrey Children's Foundation," said Angela Cadorin, the owner of Fat Guys Auto Parts. "We know we are supporting a great cause, too." This sentiment was echoed by Ivana Chies, a retired teacher and board member of the George Jeffrey Children's Foundation, who volunteered at the event. "As a board member of George Jeffrey Children's Foundation, I know how important George Jeffrey Children's Centre is to our community, and I also know how much it means to receive financial support from our community. Thank you, Fat Guys Auto Parts."

A Tradition of Giving

With this year's donation of $8,873.50, the Fat Guys Auto Parts Car Show has once again demonstrated its commitment to making a difference in the lives of local children. The event has become a cherished tradition, a celebration of automotive passion and community spirit, all while supporting a cause that is close to the hearts of everyone involved. As the cars roar and the crowds cheer, the true legacy of the Fat Guys Auto Parts Car Show shines through – a testament to the power of coming together to make a positive impact on the world around us.
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Vintage Gems Captivate at Finch House Car Showcase

Vintage Splendor Shines at Finch House Car Show

The Finch House in Salisbury played host to a captivating vintage and classic car show, showcasing a stunning array of automobiles from the 1930s to the 1970s. The event, organized by the Three Counties Vintage and Classic Car Club, not only delighted attendees with the timeless beauty of these vehicles but also raised a remarkable £305 for the esteemed charity, Help for Heroes.

Preserving the Past, Empowering the Future

A Showcase of Automotive Elegance

The Finch House, a newly renovated Grade II-listed building, provided the perfect backdrop for the vintage car display. Twelve meticulously maintained vehicles, ranging from the 1930s to the 1970s, were carefully curated by the Three Counties Vintage and Classic Car Club. Each car represented a unique chapter in automotive history, captivating the attention of Platinum Skies homeowners and local residents alike. The event's lively atmosphere was further enhanced by the presence of homemade cakes and an engaging raffle, creating a truly immersive experience for all in attendance.

Empowering Veterans through Charitable Giving

The car show's primary purpose was to raise funds for the esteemed charity, Help for Heroes. Through the combined efforts of the event organizers, attendees, and the Platinum Skies community, a remarkable £305 was raised for this worthy cause. This achievement not only highlights the generosity of the local community but also underscores Platinum Skies' commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of those who have served their country.

Platinum Skies' Ongoing Commitment

Platinum Skies' involvement in the vintage car show is just the beginning of their support for Help for Heroes. The organization has pledged to organize more fundraising events for the charity within its South West communities, further demonstrating its dedication to empowering veterans and their families. Additionally, Platinum Skies has committed to donating more than £10,000 from the sale of its luxury retirement living apartments to Help for Heroes, reinforcing its mission to create a lasting impact.

Fostering Community Connections

The Finch House car show not only celebrated the timeless beauty of vintage automobiles but also served as a platform for bringing the Platinum Skies and local communities together. The event's success in attracting both Platinum Skies homeowners and residents from the surrounding area highlights the organization's commitment to fostering meaningful connections and creating a sense of belonging within its communities.

Platinum Skies' Guiding Principles

Laura Warwick, the customer experience director at Platinum Skies, eloquently expressed the company's ethos and its alignment with the values of Help for Heroes. "The ethos of Help for Heroes resonates deeply with our company values – both being focused on empowering individuals to thrive during retirement and live life to the fullest," she stated. This shared commitment to empowering individuals and enriching lives is at the core of Platinum Skies' mission, making their partnership with Help for Heroes a natural and impactful collaboration.

Recognizing the Importance of Community Engagement

Heather Powell, the head of communities, events, and trading at Help for Heroes, acknowledged the vital role that organizations like Platinum Skies play in supporting the charity's work. "Our vital work with veterans – and their families – depends on the generosity of organisations like this and the public at large. As a caring organisation itself, Platinum Skies understands why we do what we do and how we go about it," she said. This recognition underscores the significance of community engagement and the power of collaborative efforts in making a meaningful difference in the lives of those who have served.
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