Clay-Ray Car Show Delivers Fun and Fundraising for Veterans

Beautiful weather and plenty of tall-tales were found at the Clay-Ray Veterans Association Car show Saturday Sept. 18 (photos S Jason Cole)

EXCELSIOR SPRINGS, M0. (Sept. 28, 2024) – The Clay-Ray Veterans Association hosted its annual car show on Saturday, drawing a large crowd to enjoy an impressive collection of vintage cars and motorcycles. The event, which included live music and raffles, showcased vehicles that were meticulously restored and decorated. Attendees admired the creativity behind the car designs, with some even featuring unique touches like plush toys and themed displays.

Robbie Farabee, a local artist and dedicated supporter of the community, has been attending the car show for several years. He praised this year’s event for going above and beyond, saying, “Another great year for the Clay Ray Veterans Association’s annual car show. I felt like the show went all out this year with their raffle prizes, an opportunity to smash a car (not the ones on display), and some of the vehicles decked out in some fun decor. This has been the car show I’ve been going to every year ever since I started living in downtown Excelsior Springs. It’s always great to meet up with some friends and check out the cool hot rods that attend the show. I really enjoyed the ones with the decor. Especially the red one with the drive-in tray display. Also, the plush Taz on one of the bikes was a nice touch.”

The Clay-Ray Veterans Association, which is a collaboration between the American Legion, VFW, American Legion Auxiliary, and VFW Auxiliary, organized the event to bring the community together and raise funds for veteran services. Over 15 awards were presented to car owners, with the trophies themselves designed to reflect the spirit of the show.

In addition to the cars, the event featured opportunities for attendees to engage in various activities, including a popular raffle, with prizes ranging from local gift certificates to memorabilia. Richard Busick of Excelsior Springs got Best in Show with his 1947 Chevrolet Pickup Truck and Michelle Proudfit from Excelsior Springs got 1st in Pin-Up Contest!

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