Preserving History: The Remarkable Journey of a Jet Pedal Car
In a heartwarming display of community collaboration, three nonprofits have come together to celebrate the donation of a one-of-a-kind jet pedal car to the MAPS Air Museum in North Canton, Ohio. This unique artifact, crafted with meticulous attention to detail, has found a new home where it will delight and inspire young visitors for years to come.Uniting Passions, Preserving Legacies
A Unique Collaboration
The story behind this remarkable donation is a testament to the power of partnerships and the shared passion for preserving history. Jack Dixey, a Canfield resident, had won the custom-made jet pedal car in a fundraiser organized by Diane Less of Angels for Animals. Recognizing the car's significance and the limited use it would have in his own possession, Dixey decided to donate it to the MAPS Air Museum, where it could be enjoyed by a wider audience.The donation ceremony brought together the three key players in this heartwarming tale: Dixey, Less, and Scott Denniss of the MAPS Museum. Their collaboration not only ensured the preservation of this unique piece of history but also provided an opportunity for each organization to gain recognition and support for their respective missions.A Unique Treasure
The jet pedal car, custom-built by Ralph Bertanzetti of New Washington, is a true work of art. Crafted entirely from wood, the car was meticulously detailed to reflect the identity of Angels for Animals, the nonprofit that had initially offered it as a raffle item. Valued at an impressive $4,500, the car's unique design and craftsmanship make it a one-of-a-kind treasure.A Fitting Home
The MAPS Air Museum, located in a decommissioned Ohio National Guard airplane hangar, was the perfect destination for this remarkable pedal car. As a museum dedicated to preserving the history of aviation and military service, the MAPS Museum was delighted to accept Dixey's generous donation.The museum's executive director, Kim David Kovesci, expressed his gratitude for the gift, acknowledging the trust and importance that the MAPS Museum has earned within the community. The jet pedal car will now be on display for young visitors to enjoy, providing a unique and interactive experience that brings the museum's mission to life.A Celebration of Passion and Preservation
The donation of the jet pedal car to the MAPS Air Museum is not just a story of a unique artifact finding a new home. It is a celebration of the passions and legacies that drive these three organizations – Angels for Animals, the MAPS Museum, and Dixey's Big Collectibles Show.For Angels for Animals, the donation represents the successful execution of a fundraising initiative that has now found a permanent home where it can continue to inspire and delight. For the MAPS Museum, the acceptance of this gift solidifies its role as a trusted custodian of the region's history, showcasing the stories and treasures that connect the community.And for Dixey, the donation of the jet pedal car is a testament to his commitment to preserving and sharing his love for collectibles and historical artifacts. His annual Big Collectibles Show, which will feature the jet pedal car this year, provides a platform for enthusiasts to come together and celebrate their shared passions.A Lasting Legacy
The journey of the jet pedal car from a fundraising raffle to its permanent home at the MAPS Air Museum is a heartwarming tale of community, collaboration, and the power of preserving history. This unique artifact will now serve as a beacon, drawing in young visitors and inspiring them to explore the rich tapestry of the region's past.As the jet pedal car takes its place in the museum, it stands as a symbol of the enduring legacy that these three organizations are committed to upholding. Through their collective efforts, the stories and treasures that shape our shared history will continue to be celebrated and shared with generations to come.