Iola Car Show partners with Rawhide for benefit auction

IOLA – The Iola Car Show is launching its first Cruise of Honor Benefit Auction, a new online fundraiser dedicated to enhancing the organization’s Cruise of Honor program for military veterans.
Beginning Friday, August 14, collectors and enthusiasts from across the country will have the opportunity to bid on unique vehicles, equipment, and one-of-a-kind automotive creations. Rawhide Youth Services will serve as the online auction partner, hosting the auction through the Rawhide Sales eBay Store, with proceeds benefiting the Iola Car Show’s Cruise of Honor program to help provide veteran programming, hospitality, transportation and special recognition experiences at future Iola Car Shows.
Headlining the auction is a truly one-of-a-kind 1964 Ford Galaxie 500, transformed into a patriotic tribute by Derek Bieri of Vice Grip Garage during a live build at the 2026 Iola Car Show.
The Galaxie became one of the show’s most popular attractions as thousands of spectators watched Bieri and his team revive the classic Ford throughout the event. The project is also the focus of four Vice Grip Garage episodes, giving the car a remarkable provenance that will reach millions of viewers around the world.
During the project, veterans attending the Iola Car Show were invited to sign the hood, forever making them part of the vehicle’s story and transforming it into a rolling tribute to those who have served.

“The Cruise of Honor is one of the most meaningful things we do,” said Executive Director Joe Opperman. “This Galaxie represents everything the program stands for—bringing people together, honoring our veterans, and creating memories that last well beyond the show itself. We’re incredibly grateful to Derek Bieri, Vice Grip Garage, and every donor who helped make this auction possible.”
To help bring the benefit auction to bidders nationwide, the Iola Car Show is partnering with Rawhide Youth Services, utilizing Rawhide’s nationally recognized eBay sales store and fundraising platform to bring the auction to bidders nationwide. Rawhide is serving as auction partner; proceeds from the designated Cruise of Honor auction items benefit the Iola Car Show’s Cruise of Honor program and do not benefit Rawhide Youth Services.
“The Cruise of Honor recognizes the men and women who have sacrificed for our country,” said Jon Browning, Vehicle Program Senior Manager for Rawhide. “Every bid placed in this auction helps us continue growing that experience while reminding our veterans that their service is remembered, valued, and deeply appreciated.”
To preview featured items and learn more, visit www.iolaoldcarshow.com/auction. Once bidding opens, all items will be available through the Rawhide Sales eBay Store.