OH, WHAT A WEEKEND! - Your Hometown News

by AAH Jack Quirk

This past weekend was one for the books in Hennessey, something the town has never quite seen before. Race cars, car show, and fireworks! (Check out related articles for details on each.)

Events of this scale usually take a year or more to plan, but thanks to Hennessey’s incredible volunteers, this one came together in just a few short months.

In the past, the Cruisin Oklahoma car shows, led by Hennessey’s own Tony Blackburn, brought hundreds of cars and spectators to town. This year, Tony stepped back due to other commitments, prompting several community leaders to step in to keep the tradition alive.

A planning meeting was held on March 4th at the All About Hennessey office. Since spring was too soon to organize, June 29th was selected, and the event was rebranded as the Hennessey Rev Up and Roll Out Car, Truck, and Bike Expo.

Committees quickly formed to handle every aspect, traffic and parking, vendors, special vehicles, the burnout and go-stop-go races, and marketing.

Then came a curveball from Mother Nature. Rain delayed the wheat harvest, meaning the grain elevator had to stay open, right where the event was planned. Working with CHS Manager Keith Boeckman, organizers modified the layout, closing only the west side of Main Street to allow grain trucks through. Despite the challenges, the event was a huge success. Over 150 cars, trucks, and bikes lined Main Street and nearby lots. It was a true community effort, with volunteers across town coming together to make it happen.

Gun Raffle Winners were announced

Adding to the excitement, winners of the gun raffle were also announced over the weekend: Donnie Evans – Ruger .223 Ranch Rifle, Dagan Hardin – Stevens 555 Over & Under Shotgun, and Mark Henry – Springfield 1911 Range Officer. All proceeds benefiting Hennessey United.

The weekend wrapped with a spectacular fireworks show hosted by the Town of Hennessey. Held Sunday night, it gave locals the chance to enjoy other celebrations on the 4th as well. Photos by Shelley Choate Muzny and Amy Smith.