By DON FLETCHER
News Staff Writer
The 2019 version of Tedder’s Auto Repair Christmas for Kids Car Show, the third annual fundraiser, turned out to be the most successful of the three, although the number of entries and the money raised were about the same as the previous year.
The fundraising event, proceeds from which went to TAR’s Christmas for Kids program, was held November 9 at the Carney Street car repair shop. It featured 11 entries and raised just over $500, but attracted about 100 people, the largest crowd yet for the event.
“It was a great day, today” said Bubba Tedder. “We had good weather, a good crowd and everybody had a good time. But the main thing is the money we raised for the kids. That’s what it’s all about.”
Each entrant in the competition paid $25, and several people dropped double-digit bills into the collection box. The money is used to buy Christmas gifts for children of families recommended by local schools and the county Department of Human Resources.
“We help about seven families a year,” the mechanic said. “Every one of them gets a jacket, pajamas, socks and underwear, and all of them get some toys. We were able to buy three or four bicycles and a wagon last year. It’s just our way of making Christmas brighter for kids who wouldn’t have much of a Christmas otherwise.”
The array of cars and trucks ranged from a replica 1904 horseless carriage to a sleek and shiny 1956 Ford with purple paint and a 1957 Chevrolet painted in University of Alabama crimson, to a hearse (complete with coffin) to the 1923 Ford “rat rod” that took first place.
“There wasn’t a bunch of cars that looked alike, that’s for sure,” said Cindy Tedder. “And they were all pretty much from different years, too.”
Thomas Ardis took home Best of Show honors with his 1923 Ford that is outfitted with a Studebaker motor. Richey Tedder’s 1986 Chevrolet C-10 with flames painted along the hood and sides took second, and after a three-way tie was broken by a second vote, Coy and Diane Boutwell’s 1956 Ford Fairlane was judged third best.
The hearse drew the most attention, but its owner, Jerrimie Bryars of Little River, got to the show after most attendees had voted and rushed home to watch the Alabama-LSU game on television, lessening his vote count.
Those who wish to help make Christmas brighter for local families may still donate money or toys through December 10. For more information on the Christmas for Kids program call 228-265-4903.