Car show helps CFVH residents

When people reach the golden years, a little nostalgia goes a long way. For long-term care residents at Clark Fork Valley Hospital (CFVH), sprucing up their surroundings to make life more comfortable or aesthetically pleasing with vintage interior design is a bright spot for many. And attending a car show featuring classic cars and unique vehicles can be an entertaining way to walk down memory lane.

CFVH was the location of the 3rd Annual Wild Horse Plains Car and Bike Show on Saturday, Sept. 8. "This has been a fun event in the past, and we are thankful the hospital is supporting us once again," said Del Smith, who is the activities director for the residents at the assisted living wing of CFVH. "The weather was perfect, and the turnout was great."

Fourteen car entries were joined by a retired old-style fire truck from the Plains Fire Department (which kids loved climbing on and Smith was grateful for its unignorable presence) and three shiny Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Entrants set up lawn chairs and greeted visitors, explaining back stories of the vehicles and pointing out neat features. Smith and other CFVH staff cooked and served up free hamburgers, sides, and sodas to visitors – many of whom got in on the 50/50 raffle action.

"We gave out 65 hamburgers to those checking out the entries and visiting at the picnic tables," said Smith, who added they were serenaded by the country-billy guitar and vocals of Fire Creek Band member Justin Harris, "I've got to thank him for coming down and rocking the house. His song choices had residents singing along and enjoying the shade longer than if we didn't have music."

The 50/50 raffle's winning ticket was drawn by Harris, who made the day of Mona Cox. Cox is a resident within Smith's station and donated $50 of her winnings back to the cause.

"There were so many hands in this to make it successful, and we are thankful for the community's support," said Smith, who noted that the water and sodas were donated by the Iron Lords Motorcycle Club, as well as nearly $100 they threw in the donation jar.

When all was said and done, the long-term care residents were able to bring in $431 for their extracurricular needs. Past money has been spent on mechanical blinds to block sun in gathering areas, an exercise bicycle for resident use, and other accoutrements to stay comfortable, as well as unbudgeted extra activities on and off grounds. Smith and the residents will be deciding where this year's haul will go in the upcoming weeks.

This year's show was special to Smith and others involved, as it was dedicated to their friend and fellow motorcycle rider, the late Bill Silverthorn. Silverthorn died while riding his Harley-Davidson last week. Smith shared that he was a dear friend and the two were in the same motorcycle club for a time.

"We will miss Bill so much," said Smith. "He was a great friend who has helped in past car shows with us. Bill Silverthorn is a special name in our hearts."