By Jamie Schnell
schnellj@knoxfocus.com
Morning Pointe Hardin Valley recently hosted a Father’s Day Classic Car Show, transforming its campus into a nostalgic celebration honoring fathers and father figures. Residents, families, car enthusiasts, and neighbors gathered to enjoy classic cars from decades past, each with its own story. Guests enjoyed lunch as a parade of vintage vehicles passed by, including a special cruise through the memory care area at The Lantern at Morning Pointe, bringing smiles to many.
Life Enrichment Director Hope Anderson, along with Maegan Headrick and Brooke Baxter, organized the event with care and creativity, even joining the parade themselves. Maegan shared, “We had a great turnout today for both Morning Pointe and The Lantern at Morning Pointe. The event sparked many memories for our residents, and it was wonderful to see the community come together in support. Morning Pointe hosts events like this to create a ‘slice of home’ for residents, giving them something to look forward to and enjoy in a welcoming space.”
Hope shared how much the fathers in the community mean to everyone, expressing that the event stirred up fond, nostalgic memories and gave residents a wonderful chance to connect with others. “We enjoy watching the residents smile and seeing everyone come together to admire the cars,” she said.
Participating car clubs included the East Tennessee Corvette Club, Smoky Mountain Model A Club, and English Auto Society. These groups have visited Morning Pointe multiple times, delighting residents and guests. In addition to organizing car shows, they support additional Tennessee charities such as the Boys and Girls Club, Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital, U.T. School of Nursing, Second Harvest, and Atchley Veterans’ Home.
Peggy Lee and her husband, Harold, are residents of Morning Pointe and brought their cherished car for the occasion. It was the first time in some time the car had been driven, making the day especially meaningful. Peggy shared that her husband “loves to drive it” and was thrilled to participate, as the event brought back fond memories for both.
Roger and Linda Lippelmann, also residents, will celebrate their 46th wedding anniversary in November. Roger reflected on his family’s car dealership, Rickabaugh Motors, which has operated since 1925 across three generations. He shared that the event helped them “live in the moment again” and reminded everyone that each person has a story about their first car. Roger fondly recalled his own first car, a green ‘51 Plymouth, and noted that automobiles often reflect a person’s life story.
The event highlighted the power of community and connection, as residents shared stories and laughter. This sense of belonging continues to bring residents, families, and staff closer together each day.
