The Russellville High School Panther Band, in partnership with Newton Chevrolet, kicked off the school year with a resounding success. Their inaugural Back to School Car Show fundraiser on Saturday drew over 100 vehicles, transforming the high school parking lot into a vibrant showcase of automobiles, trucks, motorcycles, and jeeps.
Enthusiasts from across southern Kentucky and Tennessee gathered to admire the impressive lineup. Spectators enjoyed live music from The Lawrence Brothers Band and special performances by Panther Band members Karson Pitts, Ashton Parish, Patrick Thomason, and Marshall DeWeese.
To keep everyone entertained, the event featured door prize giveaways every 30 minutes, along with face painting, a photo booth, and bounce houses courtesy of Here Comes the Bounce of Lewisburg.
“The weather was beautiful, and it was a great day for all involved,” said Sara Pitts, booster president. “RHS Band Boosters would like to say a big thank you to everyone who made the day possible, and we look forward to making this an annual event for the community!”
A distinguished panel of judges, including Russellville Superintendent Kyle Estes, Russellville High School Principal Drew Teel, Sam Dilliha, Logan County Jailer Josh Toomey, Jessie Ransom from Appleton Harley Davidson, and Jae Allison with the Givin’ Back Kids, selected the following winners:
Overall Best of Show: Danny Patterson — 1969 Chevy Camaro SS
Best Paint: Chuck Blackford — 1968 Chevelle
Best Interior: Sandra Fuqua — 1969 Chevy Camaro
Best Rat Rod: David Horn — 1967 Ford LTD
People’s Choice: Russellville City Fire Department — 2013 Ford F350 Custom Wildland Fire Truck
Panther Band Choice: Chuck Blackford — 1968 Chevelle
Best Hero: City of Adairville Police Department — Dodge Durango
The event was made possible thanks to generous sponsors including Newton Chevrolet, Sam’s Window Tinting, Scotty’s Barber Shop, Clay’s Auto Body & Towing, and Blue Cotton.
“We had the best time at the car show! All of the event staff was so friendly and the school is beautiful. We have been to seven or so shows this year and this has been the best one yet,” said Patricia Patterson, wife of Danny Patterson who won Overall Best of Show.
Denise Shoulders can be reached by emailing [email protected]