In a poignant turn of events, the Krusin Klassics Car Club is gearing up for its 40th and final edition of the beloved Fun Run car show. Despite its enduring popularity, the club's decision to conclude this tradition stems from the aging members who feel it's time to pass the baton. The event, held in Escanaba, Michigan, has been a cornerstone of community spirit, attracting hundreds of classic cars and raising funds for local scholarships. The legacy of this iconic gathering will continue in some form, as the Escanaba DDA plans to maintain certain aspects on a smaller scale.
A Golden Era Comes to an End: The Final Krusin Klassics Fun Run
In the heart of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, the Krusin Klassics Car Club is set to bid farewell to one of its most cherished traditions. This May, the U.P. State Fairgrounds in Escanaba will host the 40th and final Fun Run car show, marking the end of four decades of automotive splendor. Board President Mark Caswell, alongside fellow enthusiasts Bill and Debbie Brunette, recently appeared on Upper Michigan Today to reflect on this significant milestone. With over 800 classic cars typically gracing the event, the Fun Run has long been a highlight for both locals and visitors alike. However, as the founding members reach retirement age, they have made the bittersweet decision to step back.
The Fun Run has not only showcased stunning vehicles but has also served as a vital fundraising platform. Through raffles and auctions, the event has contributed significantly to the community, including supporting a major scholarship program at Bay College. Looking ahead, the Escanaba Downtown Development Authority (DDA) intends to preserve the spirit of the Fun Run by continuing the Friday night parade and other elements on a reduced scale.
Beyond the car show, Upper Michigan Today also featured discussions on literature, highlighting Sally Rooney’s "Intermezzo" and announcing the next book selection for their monthly reading series. The Peter White Public Library joined the conversation, promoting Roz Chast’s graphic novel "Can’t We Talk About Something More Pleasant?" as the featured read for March, with 200 free copies available for distribution. Throughout the month, the library will host various programs centered around this compelling work.
This convergence of automotive passion and literary exploration underscores the rich cultural tapestry of Upper Michigan, reminding us of the importance of preserving and celebrating community traditions while embracing new beginnings.
Reflections on Legacy and Continuity
From a journalist's perspective, the conclusion of the Krusin Klassics Fun Run serves as a poignant reminder of the inevitable passage of time and the importance of legacy. As older generations hand over the reins, it's crucial to honor their contributions while fostering new opportunities for younger participants. The decision to scale down rather than abandon the event entirely demonstrates a thoughtful approach to maintaining community engagement. This transition invites reflection on how we can adapt cherished traditions to ensure their relevance and vitality for future generations.
The opening day of the 2025 Formula 1 pre-season testing in Bahrain has provided a tantalizing glimpse into the upcoming season. As all twenty drivers took to the track, each car's unique characteristics began to emerge. Observers from various vantage points noted initial impressions that hint at the strengths and challenges teams may face. While fuel loads and engine modes remain shrouded in mystery, the visual performance of these machines offers valuable insights.
Bahrain's Canvas: A Day of Discoveries
In the warm embrace of the Bahraini afternoon, the McLaren team presented an intriguing narrative. Initially, Oscar Piastri's conservative approach made the car appear unremarkable. However, as Lando Norris took over in the afternoon, the vehicle's potential became evident. The car demonstrated consistency, excellent corner rotation, and solid traction, suggesting it could live up to its pre-season hype.
The Ferrari, piloted by Lewis Hamilton and later Charles Leclerc, showcased a responsive front end but occasionally veered into oversteer territory. This duality hinted at a fine line between agility and unpredictability. Despite minor issues, the car looked lively and promising, especially under Leclerc's more consistent handling.
Red Bull's RB21, driven by Liam Lawson and Max Verstappen, appeared strong yet temperamental. Lawson's confident morning runs gave way to moments of difficulty as he pushed the limits, culminating in a spin at Turn 3. Verstappen's afternoon session was equally fascinating, with some laps demonstrating exceptional control while others highlighted balance limitations. The Red Bull remained a car to watch closely over the next few days.
Mercedes' W16 offered both Kimi Antonelli and George Russell a platform of confidence. Russell's driving, in particular, showcased the car's predictability and responsiveness. Although pace questions linger, the Mercedes seemed to provide a reliable and stable experience for its drivers.
Aston Martin aimed for stability and achieved it, with Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll delivering consistent performances. The car looked reassuringly composed throughout the day, though its overall speed remains to be seen.
Alpine's transformation from last year was palpable, with Pierre Gasly confidently attacking corners. Minor imbalances were observed, particularly in slower sections, but the car generally appeared well-placed for midfield battles.
Haas, focusing on high-fuel runs, kept a low profile. Drivers Ollie Bearman and Esteban Ocon navigated mid-corner understeer and struggled through high-speed turns. Nevertheless, consistency—a hallmark of Haas—remained intact.
Racing Bulls' car blended into the midfield without standing out positively or negatively. It seemed balanced but shared common front-end limitations in slower corners.
Williams emerged as one of the most visually engaging cars, responding dynamically to track conditions. Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz encountered occasional rear instability under braking but displayed flashes of impressive performance.
Sauber's C45 initially faced traction and front-end grip issues, leading to moments of oversteer. However, adjustments improved its composure, though it still lacked standout features early on.
From a journalist's perspective, this first day of testing underscores the importance of first impressions. Each team has set the stage for what promises to be an exciting season. The nuances observed today will undoubtedly evolve as testing progresses, revealing deeper insights into the capabilities of these remarkable machines and the skill of their drivers.
The Red Bull Racing team has embarked on its pre-season testing for the 2025 Formula 1 season in Bahrain, showcasing a car that is fundamentally similar to the one they plan to race at the start of the season. Team principal Christian Horner reassured the media and fans that this vehicle, designated as the RB21, will remain largely unchanged for the opening race in Melbourne. Despite the apparent visual similarities to last year's championship-winning model, the team has been working diligently to refine and enhance various aspects of the car.
A key point emphasized by Horner is the trend towards design convergence across the Formula 1 grid. He noted that while Ferrari stands out as a differentiator, most teams have gravitated toward what appears to be the optimal design solution under current regulations. The RB21 may look familiar, but significant changes lie beneath the surface. Horner highlighted that every surface on the new car is different from last year's model, with subtle modifications aimed at improving performance and expanding the setup operating window. The team has focused on incremental improvements rather than a complete overhaul, ensuring they remain competitive without overcommitting resources to drastic changes ahead of the major regulation shifts in 2026.
As the season approaches, Red Bull's strategy underscores the importance of steady progress and meticulous preparation. The team's approach reflects a balanced and pragmatic philosophy, emphasizing continuous improvement and adaptability. By focusing on refining existing strengths and addressing specific areas for enhancement, Red Bull aims to maintain its competitive edge. This methodical approach not only prepares them for the challenges of the upcoming season but also positions them well for future regulatory changes. The journey from pre-season testing to the final race in Abu Dhabi will be a testament to their dedication and resilience in the pursuit of excellence.