BY Amanda Sotelo
Nearly 30 student veterans at Texas State Technical College have been awarded veteran scholarships by the Veteran Students Alliance Club, a student-run organization that helps veterans and their families with the transition to civilian life and assists them with getting the veteran benefits available to attend TSTC.
To continue awarding scholarships, a tradition started by the club in 2013, the Veteran Students Alliance Club will host a Car, Truck and Motorcycle Show on March 26 at the TSTC campus.
This is the second annual show. The club’s president Maria Rincon, said last year’s show was a success, earning approximately $2,100 and having more than 60 car show contestants.
“Our goal for this year is to get more car show participants,” said Rincon. “With more contestants, we raise more money and increase the number of students we help. This is our way of giving thanks to the veterans for their service.”
All proceeds from the car show go toward veteran student scholarships. Every semester, three students receive a $300 scholarship that can be used to cover tuition, books and supplies, or room and board.
Student veterans who apply for the scholarship must have prior military service, 90 plus days, or 30 days medical discharge; be a part-time student; have a 2.0 grade-point average and complete a 300 word essay.
There are 12 competitive categories car, truck and motorcycle enthusiasts can compete in such as muscle, classic and work in progress. There are first and second place awards for every category including three specialty awards: President’s Choice, People’s Choice, and Club Affiliation.
The show is free and open to the public, but for those wanting to contribute to the club’s mission, tickets can be purchased for $1. Each tickets counts as one vote for their favorite car, truck or motorcycle in each competition category.
Food and drinks will also be available for purchase.
“All money raised from competitors, spectators and vendors goes a long way when you’re helping students pursue an education,” said Steve Guevara, Veterans Center director.
Any vendors interested in advertising their services at the show can purchase a table for $50. Sponsorships for gift cards or discounts are also welcomed. Gift cards and discounts will be used as door prizes for car show contestants.
To enter a car, truck or motorcycle in the “Show ’N’ Shine category preregistration is $10 and ends March 18. The registration price after March 18 is $20. Any vehicle in this category is only eligible for specialty awards.
The “Competition” registration fee is $20 preregistration until March 18 and $30 after that. This category is eligible for specialty awards and first and second place trophies all competition categories.
Registration for “Competition” and “Show ’N’ Shine” ends March 26.
For more information or to request a registration form contact Jose Villegas at 956-364-4387.
WHEN: March 26, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
WHERE: TSTC Student Center Parking Lot (off Oak St.), 1902 N. Loop 499 Harlingen