16 January 2026
Around The Cracker Barrel - Cars, Memories, and Community: A Cracker Barrel Conversation (Aired 01/16/2026)
Around the Cracker Barrel
About
This week on Around the Cracker Barrel, host Guy Atchley welcomes members of the Santa Cruz Valley Car Nuts to spotlight one of Southern Arizona’s most anticipated community events — the 31st Annual Santa Cruz Valley Car Nuts Classic Car Show, happening Saturday, January 31st in Sahuarita.
Guests John Murray, Barb Cottis, and Mike Thomas share the rich history of the Car Nuts Club, which began in 1994 as a small group of car enthusiasts and has grown into a major fundraising force for local education. The conversation explores how the annual car show has evolved into a regional draw, featuring up to 300 vehicles ranging from classic hot rods and vintage trucks to rare, high-value restorations — including a special appearance by a car featured at the SEMA Show.
Listeners will learn what makes this year’s event special, including the scenic grass-field venue at Quail Creek Veterans Memorial Municipal Park, the wide variety of car classes and awards, food trucks, and the welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. The guests also discuss how the event directly supports automotive education programs at Sahuarita High School and Walden Grove High School, helping inspire the next generation of mechanics and automotive professionals.
The show highlights the passion behind classic car culture, the camaraderie of the Car Nuts Club, and their remarkable commitment to giving back — with more than $875,000 donated to the community over the years. Whether you’re a car enthusiast, history buff, or just looking for a great local event, this episode offers a nostalgic and informative look at why this car show continues to thrive.
For More Info, Find them on the Web at https://www.carnuts.org
Guests John Murray, Barb Cottis, and Mike Thomas share the rich history of the Car Nuts Club, which began in 1994 as a small group of car enthusiasts and has grown into a major fundraising force for local education. The conversation explores how the annual car show has evolved into a regional draw, featuring up to 300 vehicles ranging from classic hot rods and vintage trucks to rare, high-value restorations — including a special appearance by a car featured at the SEMA Show.
Listeners will learn what makes this year’s event special, including the scenic grass-field venue at Quail Creek Veterans Memorial Municipal Park, the wide variety of car classes and awards, food trucks, and the welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. The guests also discuss how the event directly supports automotive education programs at Sahuarita High School and Walden Grove High School, helping inspire the next generation of mechanics and automotive professionals.
The show highlights the passion behind classic car culture, the camaraderie of the Car Nuts Club, and their remarkable commitment to giving back — with more than $875,000 donated to the community over the years. Whether you’re a car enthusiast, history buff, or just looking for a great local event, this episode offers a nostalgic and informative look at why this car show continues to thrive.
For More Info, Find them on the Web at https://www.carnuts.org