JOHN COFFELTEditor

A collection of bikers, hot rodders and general automotive enthusiasts gathered at the Raider Academy Sunday, Nov. 5 for the 27th annual Highway 41 Toy Convoy and Show to bring joy and happiness to the children of Middle Tennessee.

“We have one participant coming 589 miles one way from Lake Erie Ohio in his 1929 Ford Pickup Truck, stated Katy Ishee, organizer of the convoy. Besides the trophies in the show, we also have the young at heart award, long distance and MOST PATRIOTIC vehicles awards.

Ishee said that there were 72 show entries,” she said. “This is the biggest turnout that we’ve had in ages.”

“I’m overwhelmed –so excited,” Ishee said.

Autobody man Rodney Hall, of Tullahoma’s Rodney’s Body Shop, said that Manchester Police Department, Coffee County Sheriff’s Department and Wartrace Rescue Squad will distribute the toys that were collected.

“It’s good for the community and to give to the kids who are less fortunate,” Hall said.

Hall has been participating in the toy drive for over a decade.

The toy convoy, once lined up, travelled to Beech Grove, then along Highway 64 to Wartrace for a concert by Virgil T & Friends. Car, bike, jeep and truck shows followed.

Special guest included Batman aka Steve Davis, of Murfreesboro with his Batmobile along with the MacVader truck #88 with Mike Morgan.

To donate, call Katy Ishee, at 931-857-3643.

John has been with the Manchester Times since May 2011. John has won Tennessee Press Association awards for Best News Photo and placed in numerous other categories. John is a 1994 graduate of Tullahoma High School, a graduate of Motlow State Community College and earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from Middle Tennessee State University. He lives in Tullahoma, enjoys painting, dancing and exploring the outdoors.