Odessa College's Annual Car Show: Revving Up Community Connections and Student Opportunities

Odessa College is gearing up for its third annual car show, a celebration of automotive enthusiasts, community partnerships, and student success. This highly anticipated event showcases a diverse array of vehicles, from classic to modern, muscle cars to low-riders, and everything in between. The car show not only delights attendees but also serves as a platform to support the college's auto tech program and honor the memory of a beloved student.

Driving Towards a Brighter Future for Odessa's Auto Tech Students

Expanding Horizons for Automotive Enthusiasts

Odessa College's car show has become a highly anticipated annual event, drawing in a growing number of participants and spectators each year. This year's edition promises to be the biggest yet, with an estimated 150 to 200 vehicles on display across 41 different classes. From vintage classics to the latest automotive innovations, the car show offers something for every automotive enthusiast.The event's success can be attributed to the college's commitment to fostering community engagement and providing valuable opportunities for its auto tech students. "This is our third year to have this community event, and it has grown every year," said Rob Turner, the Auto Diesel Technology Department Chair. "The vision for the auto diesel technology program and the OC Sewell Auto Tech facility has been to benefit the general public and the students in our program. This event is one of the ways that we do that."

Honoring a Fallen Student's Legacy

The car show also serves as a poignant tribute to the memory of Elijah Barrera, a member of the first group of the Automotive Student Service Education Training program who tragically passed away in a motorcycle accident shortly after graduating in May 2022. In his honor, the Elijah Barrera Memorial Scholarship was established, with proceeds from the car show going directly to support current and future students in the auto diesel program."We are fortunate to have community partners such as Sewell Family of Companies, Rogers Ford of Midland, Warren CAT, Summit Fleet, Chevron Fab Lab, and others who support our students, graduates and the program," Turner added. "They also work together generously to cover all costs of the Car Show, so that all of the proceeds may go to the Elijah Barrera Memorial Scholarship for our students."

Fostering Partnerships and Opportunities

The car show serves as a platform for Odessa College to showcase its strong partnerships with industry leaders and organizations. Representatives from the college, community partners, and other companies and organizations, such as Odessa Fire Rescue, will be on hand to provide attendees with information about the various opportunities available to students and graduates in the auto tech field."This event is one of the ways that we do that," Turner emphasized, highlighting the college's commitment to bridging the gap between education and real-world employment. By connecting students with potential employers and industry experts, the car show opens doors to internships, apprenticeships, and future career prospects, ensuring that Odessa's auto tech graduates are well-equipped to thrive in the dynamic automotive industry.

Revving Up Community Engagement

Beyond the impressive display of vehicles, the Odessa College Car Show is a celebration of the local community's passion for all things automotive. The event provides a unique opportunity for car enthusiasts to come together, share their love for their prized possessions, and connect with like-minded individuals."This is a community event, and it has grown every year," Turner remarked, underscoring the college's commitment to fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among automotive enthusiasts. By inviting the public to participate and enjoy the showcase, Odessa College is not only promoting its auto tech program but also strengthening the bonds between the college and the surrounding community.The third annual Odessa College Car Show promises to be a must-attend event for anyone with a passion for automobiles. From the diverse array of vehicles on display to the opportunities for students and the community, this celebration of all things automotive is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who attend.

Revving Up for the Final Cruise: Main Street Duncan's Car and Motorcycle Showcase

As the summer season draws to a close, car and motorcycle enthusiasts in Duncan, Oklahoma, are gearing up for the final cruise of the year. Main Street Duncan's Friday night Car Cruise will feature a modified Car and Motorcycle Show, along with an awards presentation, on September 20th. This event promises to be a thrilling celebration of automotive passion and community spirit.

Unleash the Horsepower: A Captivating Automotive Showcase

Cruising Through Historic Downtown

The Car and Motorcycle Cruise will take place from 8:15 to 9:30 PM, with vehicles parading along Main Street from 10th Street to 7th Street. This scenic route through the heart of downtown Duncan will allow participants to showcase their prized possessions and compete for a variety of awards. Brandi Johnson, the Executive Director of Main Street Duncan, emphasizes the family-friendly atmosphere, encouraging attendees to bring their tailgate parties and make it a memorable outing.

Revving Up for the Car Show

The Car Show registration will begin at 6 PM at the northwest corner of Main and 10th Street, with judging commencing at 7:30 PM. The highly anticipated awards presentation will take place at 8:15 PM on the corner of Main and 9th Street. Participants will have the opportunity to compete in various categories, including Best Club Participation, Best Engine, Best Family Duo, Best Paint, City of Duncan Pick, Longest Distance Traveled, Model 1 Commercial Vehicles Top Pick, and Best Upholstery.

Honoring the Motorcycle Enthusiasts

In addition to the car show, the event will also feature a dedicated Motorcycle Awards segment. Prizes will be presented in categories such as Bagger, Chopper, Bobber, Drag, Café, Minibike, Grom (300cc or under), Modified Cruiser, Sport, and Stock (Cruise/Sport). This inclusive approach ensures that both car and motorcycle enthusiasts can showcase their prized possessions and be recognized for their exceptional craftsmanship.

Enhancing the Main Street Aesthetic

The proceeds from the Car and Motorcycle Cruise will be directed towards the Main Street Duncan façade grant, which plays a crucial role in assisting local businesses with essential exterior updates. These improvements, such as lighting, paint, awnings, and signage, help to enhance the overall aesthetic and appeal of the historic downtown area. By investing in the community's infrastructure, Main Street Duncan aims to create a more vibrant and inviting atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.

A Celebration of Automotive Passion and Community Spirit

The Car and Motorcycle Cruise on Main Street Duncan promises to be a thrilling event that celebrates the region's automotive enthusiasts and their prized possessions. From the roar of the engines to the gleam of the meticulously maintained vehicles, this event will captivate the senses and bring the community together in a shared appreciation for the art of automotive craftsmanship. Whether you're a car aficionado, a motorcycle enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys a lively community event, the Main Street Duncan Car and Motorcycle Cruise is an experience not to be missed.

Revving Up for a Cause: Cruise In & Car Show to Benefit the Blakney Family

The upcoming Cruise In & Car Show, set to take place on September 21st from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Baileyton Drag Strip in Baileyton, Alabama, is more than just a celebration of automotive enthusiasts. This event has a deeper purpose – to raise funds for the Blakney family, who recently suffered a devastating house fire that left them with little more than the clothes on their backs.

Rallying Together to Rebuild Lives

A Community in Action

The Cruise In & Car Show is a testament to the power of community. Organized by the Fairview High School (FHS) Baseball team, this event aims to provide much-needed support to Zak Blakney, the assistant baseball coach at FHS, and his family. The Blakneys have faced unimaginable hardship, losing their home and belongings in a fire that left them in dire need of assistance.The event's organizers have rallied the community to come together and show their support for the Blakney family. By hosting this Cruise In & Car Show, they hope to not only raise funds to help the family rebuild their lives but also to demonstrate the strength and compassion of the local community.

A Chance to Give Back

For those who cannot attend the car show, there are other ways to contribute to the Blakney family's recovery. A GoFundMe page has been created to accept donations, and a Venmo account has been set up to facilitate electronic transfers. Additionally, a scannable QR code is available on the event flyer, making it easy for supporters to access the donation platforms.The outpouring of support from the community has been heartwarming, with many individuals and businesses eager to lend a helping hand. This event is a testament to the power of community and the transformative impact that can be achieved when people come together for a common cause.

A Celebration of Automotive Passion

While the primary focus of the Cruise In & Car Show is to support the Blakney family, the event also promises to be a celebration of automotive passion. Car enthusiasts from across the region are expected to showcase their prized possessions, ranging from classic muscle cars to modern high-performance vehicles.The entry fee for cars in the show is $30, and food trucks will be on-site to cater to the attendees. This event promises to be a day filled with the roar of engines, the gleam of polished chrome, and the camaraderie of like-minded car enthusiasts, all while raising funds for a family in need.

A Lasting Impact

The Cruise In & Car Show is more than just a one-day event; it is a testament to the resilience and generosity of the Baileyton community. By coming together to support the Blakney family, the organizers and attendees are not only providing immediate relief but also laying the foundation for a brighter future.The funds raised through this event will help the Blakneys rebuild their lives, replacing the possessions they lost and providing them with the resources they need to move forward. But the true impact of this event goes beyond the financial support; it is a demonstration of the power of community, the strength of human compassion, and the transformative potential of collective action.As the Cruise In & Car Show unfolds on September 21st, the Baileyton community will come together to celebrate their shared passion for automobiles and, more importantly, their shared commitment to supporting one another in times of need. This event is a testament to the enduring spirit of the human spirit and a reminder that even in the face of adversity, the power of community can light the way forward.