El Paso County Fair Advisory Board Member Martie Stott said there “was a tremendous outpouring of love as all the race car drivers came out of the pits with their racing suits and helmets.” With helmets extended, the racers entered the stands and proceeded to fill them as fans reached deep into their pockets, filling the helmets with bills.

According to the El Paso County Speedway website, drivers Jason Escolopio, Daryl Stutzman, Chad Stutzman and Darin Rockwell donated their winnings, while staff members Teri Jergens, Mike and Sheila Framel donated their earnings to cause. The total came to more than $1,500.

Fair Advisory Board Member Mel Trafton said the Good Luck Sams Club executive committee was at the fairgrounds that night and voted to give all the tips to the Ross family. When the folks found out where the tips were going, Trafton said the giving increased and they had a little more than $340 in the can.

Commissioner Amy Lathen noted that the races were a success and the fireworks “were a huge success. It was a tremendous fireworks display.”

Approximately 2,100 people attended the races and while parking was a challenge, thanks went to the work of the Calhan Lions Club, the Calhan Police Department and the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office for emptying the two parking lots in less than 25 minutes after the racing and fireworks ended.

Suzan Link, Events Coordinator, said, “The Lions Club members are so awesome. They just work so hard and do such a great job.”

Amid the sponsors of the fireworks show were Midwest Barricade, Carefree Trucking, Mr. Lightning, Shupe Racing and Performance Graphics. The Calhan Volunteer Fire Department provided emergency support for both the races and the fireworks show. The 4-H D.C. Delegates did trash pick up the next day.

It was noted at the Fair Advisory Board meeting on July 7 that after the Demolition Derby on Saturday, July 26, there will be another fireworks show.