This weekend, the Bend XPO Center will host one of the Midwest’s premier winter events—the Rod & Custom Auto Show. From January 17 to 19, attendees can immerse themselves in a world of classic and custom vehicles, intricate pinstriping, and an array of vendor booths. The event promises a unique blend of automotive history and pop culture, as fans have the opportunity to meet Butch Patrick, famously known for his role as Eddie Munster from a beloved 20th-century television series. Patrick will be present throughout the show, offering photo opportunities, autographs, and showcasing his replica Dragula car. Admission is affordable, with tickets priced at just $10 for adults, while children under 13 and military personnel enjoy free entry.

The Rod & Custom Auto Show is set to take over the Bend XPO Center this month, transforming it into a haven for car enthusiasts and nostalgia seekers alike. One of the most anticipated highlights is the presence of Butch Patrick, who played Eddie Munster in a classic TV series that captivated audiences decades ago. Patrick’s booth will remain open all weekend, providing fans with a chance to interact with him directly. In addition to meeting a Hollywood icon, visitors can explore a vast collection of meticulously restored and customized vehicles. The event also features a variety of activities, including a pinstriping panel jam, a kid-friendly metal art contest, and even an original art auction. Each day offers something new, ensuring there’s never a dull moment.

On Friday, the show kicks off at 1 PM with an evening filled with entertainment until 8 PM. Attendees can start exploring the exhibition right away, followed by a pinstriping panel jam hosted by Hetz in the Kickin’ Kolor Booth at 6:30 PM. Saturday brings an earlier opening at 10 AM, with more events such as a car calendar signing, a pin-up contest, and another pinstriping panel jam. Sunday wraps up the festivities with a morning awards ceremony, concluding with a final pinstriping panel jam and art auction. Throughout each day, Butch Patrick’s booth remains open, allowing fans ample time to engage with him.

As the curtains close on this year’s Rod & Custom Auto Show, attendees leave with unforgettable memories and a renewed appreciation for both classic cars and iconic TV moments. The event not only celebrates automotive craftsmanship but also bridges the gap between different generations through shared cultural experiences. With its combination of thrilling exhibits, engaging activities, and celebrity appearances, the show has become a must-attend event for anyone passionate about cars or nostalgic for classic television.

Connecticut has taken a pioneering step in addressing wealth inequality through its groundbreaking baby bonds program. Launched in July 2024, this initiative invests $3,200 on behalf of newborns enrolled in Connecticut’s Medicaid program, HUSKY. The program aims to provide financial support for future endeavors such as homeownership, entrepreneurship, and education. Over half of Connecticut’s newborns qualify for this program, with approximately 15,600 babies expected to enroll annually. This article explores the significance of this initiative and its potential impact on national policies.

Empowering Families Through Financial Security

The baby bonds program is designed to empower families by providing them with a financial safety net for their children. By investing in these funds, Connecticut seeks to break the cycle of generational poverty and foster economic mobility. The funds can be accessed between the ages of 18 and 30, after passing a financial literacy test. This ensures that recipients are prepared to make informed decisions about their financial futures. Moreover, the program encourages families to envision and plan for their children's long-term success, promoting a positive relationship between parents and government services.

The concept of baby bonds was introduced by Darrick Hamilton, a professor at The New School, who emphasized the importance of federal involvement in expanding this initiative nationwide. Hamilton believes that while local efforts are crucial, federal support is necessary to ensure all U.S. children benefit from this wealth-building opportunity. Connecticut State Treasurer Erick Russell highlighted his personal experiences growing up in New Haven, where owning a home was an unattainable dream for many. He stressed that baby bonds are part of a broader strategy to combat poverty, including investments in education, childcare, and affordable housing. The program also addresses social issues like gentrification by creating a cohort of individuals who can collectively support their neighborhoods.

Complementary Initiatives for Comprehensive Support

To maximize the effectiveness of baby bonds, experts suggest integrating them with other financial assistance programs. Stanford University researchers Max Rong and David Grusky have modeled the benefits of combining baby bonds with guaranteed income initiatives. Their research indicates that offering both programs simultaneously provides more comprehensive support than enhancing just one. Guaranteed income helps alleviate immediate financial pressures, allowing caregivers to focus on forming healthy attachments with their children and meeting daily needs. Meanwhile, baby bonds offer long-term financial stability, enabling recipients to achieve significant milestones such as purchasing a home or starting a business.

Laura Clancy, executive director of The Bridge Project, a guaranteed income program for new mothers in Connecticut, emphasized the importance of trusting parents' judgment about their children's needs. She encouraged policymakers to think creatively and challenge existing inequities. By fostering innovative approaches, Connecticut's baby bonds program sets a powerful example for other states and the federal government. As more regions explore similar initiatives, the potential for widespread economic empowerment becomes increasingly promising. Ultimately, this combination of programs could revolutionize how we address poverty and promote sustainable wealth creation across the nation.