BEDFORD – The North Lawrence Career Center once again held its annual car show event on Friday, this time with around 80 different displays for students to view, including vintage cars, drone flyovers, helicopter landings, and more.
Students gathered around the parking lot of the career center throughout the morning, which was filled with show vehicles, race cars, vehicles from first responders and the military, and even a tour bus formerly utilized by Toby Keith. There were also emergency helicopter landings, car dealerships, parts stores, food trucks, and music provided by WQRK Classic Hits 105.5.
Overall, Eric Terry, Automotive Technology Instructor at the NLCC, felt this event may have set the bar for years to come.
“I thought this year was not only the biggest show yet but the best,” said Terry. “It sure helps when it’s 70 and sunny.”
Brad Grow, Automotive Technology Instructor at the NLCC, also felt the event was a huge win for the program, even bringing in all of the district’s fourth-grade students, thanks to a trip organized by Mrs. Baker
“The event was a great success and there were a lot of positive comments,” said Grow. “I started this show actually about 23 years ago with maybe three race cars to display in the Automotive Shop. My idea was to bring these cool cars to the students so they could observe firsthand something they may not be able to afford to go and watch or have the transportation to get there. It has grown to what it is today because a lot of volunteers have bought into the same idea that we have had. It would not happen without everyone’s participation and donating their time and expertise.”
The event has long been a fixture of the career center, which Terry attributes to the variance it brings, both in the different kinds of vehicles that are present, but also in providing students an educational escape from the typical classroom experience.
“I think the reason for its success is the number of different forms of transportation that we bring in,” he said. “I believe the reason it has become a staple and people look forward to it is that it is kind of a day to get outside and get away from the classroom. The show is also educational where students can ask questions to the participants and learn about different forms of transportation.”
Grow recognized Terry, his co-instructor, for his efforts over the years in building the event.
“I want to give a special thank you to my co-instructor Eric Terry. His hard work and dedication over the last 21 years have been appreciated. Also, we would like to thank the NLCC administration and the staff members who helped with the show,” he said.
Grow also gave thanks to the event’s sponsors: Hubler Chevrolet Group, Hobson Ford Chrysler Dodge, Napa Auto Parts, La-or-Ma Shrine Club, Wet-ink Designs, Medical Air Evacuation Team, Tropical Snow, Pizza Bread Guy, and 812-BBQ.
