New cars for school stars

POST FALLS — Lily Shelton had the key — literally — to winning a 2017 Chevy Sonic Turbo courtesy of Knudtsen Chevrolet on Wednesday night.

The Lakeland High graduate said her "shocking" win comes at a perfect time because her 1997 Honda Accord is starting to show its age.

"It was time for an upgrade — and this isn't too bad," Shelton said with a wide smile.

Graduate finalists from Lakeland, Post Falls, Timberlake, Coeur d'Alene and Lake City won the chance to win the $20,000 car when their name was drawn during their all-night, alcohol-free graduation party.

Shelton's name was actually the second one drawn from Lakeland's all-nighter. The student whose name was drawn first couldn't attend Wednesday's event.

Each of the five finalists drew a key in hopes of being able to open the Sonic. Shelton was the second student to try her luck.

"It's really nice," Shelton said. "I can't wait to drive it around."

Shelton's mother, Katie Miller, brother Devin and best friend Sarah Bond were among those at Knudtsen's annual community party to celebrate with her.

"I'm super happy for her," said Miller, fighting back tears. "She's a wonderful young woman. She's deserving, thoughtful and caring."

Shelton plans to attend an undetermined beauty school.

This was Knudtsen Chevrolet's fourth annual car giveaway to a local high school graduate.

"This is one of the best things that I get to do all year long," said Eve Knudtsen, co-owner of the auto dealership. "I always get excited for it."

It was the second straight year a student from Lakeland won the car. Sarah Sitar won last year.

The four other finalists on Wednesday won a MacBook Air computer valued at $1,000.

Co-owner Eric Knudtsen said the company looks forward to the community celebration, which also featured a free barbecue dinner and music by the Rhythm Dawgs, every year.

"It's always fun to see the expression on the face of the car winner," he said.