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The art department at George Rogers Clark High School is making some noise as of late. 

Crosley Radio, an audio electronic manufacturing company headquartered in Louisville, recently delivered a $2500 check to the school after students took home first place in a statewide competition. 

“We hosted our first ever Crosley custom cruiser contest this year, where we challenged 25 high schools across the state of Kentucky…to design, paint, [and] draw on a record player onto itself around the theme of ‘Sounds of Kentucky’” said Kaitlyn Clay, Public Relations and Media Specialist with Crosley Brands. “George Rogers Clark High School in Winchester, Kentucky, was selected as the first place winner based on their design and the impact document they wrote about what they would do with the $2500.” 

On the morning of Friday, Nov. 22, a box truck associated with Crosley Radio arrived just outside the school on Boonesboro Road. 

While decorated on the outside, its aesthetic beauty was much to behold from the inside. 

Creating a vintage-like feel, the interior of the box truck showcased record players along with a jukebox. 

Along with several other items, a number of vinyl records – some donated by the likes of Chris Stapleton and others showcasing classic artists such as Johnny Mathis, Loretta Lynn, Whitney Houston, Jim Nabors, and Emanuel Ax – who expertly play the works of Frederic Chopin. 

Three different classes of Brittani Fuller, an art teacher at GRC, were taken into the box truck and asked different questions. A history of Crosley Brands was also provided. 

Among them was the top-selling record album of all time, which yielded the answer of Michael Jackson’s “Thriller.” 

Those who answered correctly received their choice of a miniature record player or a vinyl Jack Harlow record. 

However, all students were eventually given goodie bags for participating and winning first place in the contest. 

“Their whole theme was around Bill Monroe, the founder of and the creator of bluegrass music…they did a really nice tribute to him and on each side…they showed lyrics from ‘Blue Moon’ and ‘My Old Kentucky Home,’” Clay added, noting some of the various features included. “On the back, they showed off…some guitars and some burning couches to show off the indie rock scene…and did a really nice portrait on the bottom of Bill Monroe from different mixed media.” 

Fuller, interviewed by several news outlets, spoke of her enthusiasm for students. 

“They love art. That’s their life…I was truly impressed with how well they collaborated together as true artists,” she said. “The process itself was incredible…I got to see the work behind closed doors, and many people don’t get to see that, so to see the reward they received is huge.” 

George Rogers Clark High School Principal Luke Toy, speaking to students after the check was presented inside the school’s library, also expressed gratitude toward students. 

“I want you all to know [that] I’m incredibly proud of you,” he said.