Apex Automotive Magazine - Summer 2019 by Apex Automotive Magazine

CAR REVIEWS / LOCAL SHOP STORIES / LOCAL BUILDS / CAR SHOW COVERAGE

SUMMER 2019

1958 Ford Fairlane C E N T R A L N E W Y O R K ’ S A U T O M O T I V E M A G A Z I N E 500 Skyliner Retractable Hardtop

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TA K E ONE

‘OLRED’

1962 Corvette

CONVERTIBLES The Motorcycle Cannonball and a 1915 HarleyDavidson

1935 Packard 1205 Super Eight 883

CENTRAL NEW YORK'S AUTOMOTIVE MAGAZINE. Visit apexautomag.com for all the latest events, photos and more!

A LETTER FROM OUR TEAM What better theme for a Summer Issue than…convertibles!

Hitting the road on a beautiful Sunday afternoon with the top-down is an unforgettable experience in Upstate New York, or anywhere for that matter. With roughly every decade represented, we have stories starting with a 1935 Packard Super Eight Convertible Sedan up to a 2014 Lamborghini Gallardo, and many other convertibles in between. The Motorcycle Cannonball Endurance Run is a grueling event that takes place every other year on pre-1929 antique motorcycles. It’s a fascinating story about Steve DeCosa—who is a three-time participant and two-time winner of Class III (multi-cyl, multi-spd) —riding a cantankerous 1915 Harley-Davidson. The business profile in this issue is about Nino’s Collision. What started in southern Italy in the 1940s as a motorcycle shop has become a full service, top-notch collision shop in Baldwinsville. It’s a great business story about the accomplishments of Nino Cannata, who is living that indelible American success story. Our club profile is the Bayside Cruisers, from Fairhaven on Lake Ontario. They are an active club with members offering their skills to restoring a 1931 Model A…a talented bunch. CORRECTION:

In the 2019-Spring Issue, the Readers’ Ride titled 1922 Model T Center Door Sedan, was written by Steve Grant (not Steve Drake), who is the current president of the Mohawk Motorcades Automobile Club. Apex prides itself on publishing accurate and well written articles, and apologizes for the mistake in this case.

THE TEAM Publisher Kevin Crandall

SUMMER 2019

Production Manager Bob Sblendorio Layout & Design Colleen Ingerto Director of Photography Chris Penree Photography Pete Maio, Chris Penree, Wayne Chase, Dalton Dobson, Josh Bain, John Zachary, Robert Kenney Jr. Contributing Writers Pete Maio, Bob Sblendorio, Jim Maclachlan, Mike Mastracco, Ron Alexander, John Zachary Proofreader Denise Crandall Account Manager Elise Robinson Syracuse Regional Manager Mike Mastracco Advertising Executives Elsie Massett, Hal Philp Proudly printed by Freeport Press Inc. Advertise with us! Apex Automotive Magazine is the only publication of its kind in CNY. Each issue contains articles featuring custom builds, local car shows, area custom shops, unique car stories, and everything else automotive. Want to advertise your business with us? Just email ads@apexautomag.com and let’s discuss! Thank you! We appreciate all of our amazing advertisers, without them this publication would not be possible. Please give them a chance to earn your patronage and tell them you saw them in Apex Automotive Magazine. Online To find out more about advertising in Apex, visit apexautomag.com or call 315.280.8305 Apex Automotive Magazine is published four times per year by Seven Horsepower Publishing, LLC. To subscribe: Please send $20 to the below address. Magazines will be delivered via USPS. Apex Automotive Magazine PO Box 344 Sherburne, NY 13460 We welcome feedback, story suggestions, reader contributions, anything! Send us a note to info@apexautomag.com. All contents copyright 2019, Apex Automotive Magazine. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or republished without consent. For entertainment purposes only. We do our best to fact-check specs/stories, but cannot guarantee 100% accuracy. Apex Automotive Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited submissions, photos, or artwork.

10.

16.

20.

27.

Tom Wagner talks about rebuilding his dream Corvette.

This rare car is one of only 1,248 of its kind produced.

This beauty has an intricate retractable hard top.

Angelo Alberici shares his love for sports cars.

'OLRED' - 1962 CORVETTE

By Bob Sblendorio

1982 BUICK RIVIERA CONVERTIBLE

By Pete Maio

1958 FORD FAIRLANE 500 SKYLINER

By Jim Maclachlan

LAMBORGHINI GALLARDO

By Mike Mastracco

COOL CAR STORIES

EVENTS / CLUBS / NEWS

32. Hot Wheels "Twin Mill"

52. Business Profile - Nino's Collision

34. 1935 Packard 1205 Super Eight 883 Convertible Sedan

58. Car Club - Bayside Cruisers

41. Two Triumph TR6s 46. Motorcycle Cannonball

61. 2019 Syracuse Nationals Preview 63. CNY Car Show Schedule

Online: apexautomag.com | Facebook.com: facebook/apexautomag.com | Instagram: apexautomag COVER PHOTO BY CHRIS PENREE | CONTENTS PHOTO BY DALTON DOBSON

YOU SEND YOUR FAVORITE CAR PICTURE  WE PUBLISH IT  YOU WIN FREE NORTHEAST CLASSIC CAR MUSEUM TICKETS

Readers’ Rides EACH ISSUE WE SHOWCASE A FEW OF OUR READERS’ RIDES!

1966 MUSTANG

ick Bronson acquired his ‘66 Mustang Convertible in 2002 after searching for almost five years. He found his convertible in Virginia, some 600 miles from home. His ‘66 is one of 607,568 Mustangs produced that year, a one-year production record that holds to this day. Of that record number, 56,409 were convertibles. Dick’s pony is a Sahara Beige “Sprint 200” model. It’s powered by a 200 cubic inch, 120 horsepower overhead valve straight six with an Autolite single barrel carburetor. The Sprint model also came with wire wheel covers, side accent pinstripes, rocker panel moldings, and a chrome oil filler cap and air cleaner. The air cleaner has a special decal which reads “Mustang Powered Sprint 200.” Dick has the original window sticker showing the car was optioned with power steering, air conditioning, power top, am/fm radio, luggage rack, tach 6 // APEX AUTOMOTIVE MAGAZINE SUMMER ISSUE 2019

Words and photos by PETE MAIO

This '66 convertible is one of 607,568 Mustangs produced that year, a oneyear production record that holds to this day.

and clock on the column, and more; with options, the car stickered at $3,577.34. Dick has taken great pride in keeping the all matching numbers car 100% original. All parts used are either donor car or O.E.M. Dick can be seen at as many local car shows as the calendar and weather will allow. He always invites admirers to get behind the wheel and take a picture, a real thrill especially for the kids. The list of awards he has won is far too long to post here; among his favorites are a silver cup from the Wampsville 50th Anniversary Show, a brass cup for First in Class at the All Ford Show and a prized kiddy lunch pail as a top 20 pick. When not at a show, Dick and his wife Ginny can be seen cruising the boulevard in Rome where admirers are constantly blowing their horns or giving them a thumbs up.

Syracuse Corvette Club and Classic Car Show

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This 1966 Mustang Convertible Vintage Burgundy with tan top and interior, 289 V-8, 3 speed on the �loor, power roof.

($25,000 ARV)

Tickets: $5 each or 5 for $20 15 for $50 35 for $100 or 200 for $500

Drawing: Monday October 7, 2019 I am Purchasing ______________Tickets for $_______________ Total order $_____________ *Please return my ticket stubs by mail. I have added or authorize an additional $1 to cover mailing materials and postage. (Stub not necessary to claim prize.)

Orders must be postmarked by 9/30/19

Name___________________________________________________________________Address______________________________________________________________________ City________________________________________________________State________________Zip Code_________________________________ Phone______________________________________________________Email (optional)___________________________________________________________________________ Card #_________________________________________________________________

Proceeds benefit Northeast Classic Car Museum, a 501(c)3 not-for-profit corporation.

Exp. Date_______________CVV #______________

Mail this form, or copy of this form, along with check, money order or credit card information to NECCM, Department APEX, 24 Rexford Street, Norwich, NY 13815. Also order online at www.classiccarmuseum.org or call 607-334-2886. NO PURCHASE OR DONATION NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN RAFFLE. Open to U.S. Residents age 18+. Void where prohibited. Runs 2/1/19 to 9/30/19. Prize: 1966 Mustang Convertible ($25,000 ARV). Odds of winning depend on number of eligible entries received. To view complete Official Rules visit www.classiccarmuseum.org or send self-addressed stamped envelope to: NECCM Rules, 24 Rexford St, Norwich, NY 13815.

‘OLRED’

A 1962 CORVETTE Words by BOB SBLENDORIO | Photos by CHRIS PENREE

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“Chronic car enthusiast’s aff liction” is a serious condition I recently read about in an article by Don Sherman in Corvette Magazine. It’s a life-long aff liction with no known cure. The symptoms can be treated though, but it’s expensive and usually involves buying more cars.

Diagnosis is relatively easy, and one of the first clues to look for is: Does the owner have a name for the car? Tom Wagner, owner of OLRED — a beautiful 1962 Corvette — has had this affliction since high school! Over the years, Tom has owned many classic cars, drag racing cars, and a few modern sports cars too. The other cars have been bought and sold, but not the 1962 Corvette. He has owned it for

the past 36 years, since 1983 to be exact. The name OLRED came from an article in a car magazine that Tom read many years ago. There was a head-tohead comparison between a 1962 Corvette and a 1982 Corvette. The author referred to the 1962 (painted red) as OLRED and it just stuck with Tom. After he finally bought his 1962 Corvette and had it painted Honduras Maroon — his favorite color — it was meant to be and

it was the perfect name. In addition to the personalized license plates, OLRED of course, it’s also part of his email address, serving as a pleasant reminder. The car was purchased from a coworker, who had purchased it from the plant manager. Both previous owners were not exactly skilled mechanics and were lacking in the finer points of maintaining and restoring the car…and it showed. It needed major work!

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Tom was up to the challenge, and had the fortitude and mechanical aptitude to perform a total restoration himself. The work included rebuilding the engine, transmission, and the rear end (all numbers-matching). During the engine rebuild, the intake manifold and carb were upgraded, along with the installation of a “mild” cam and new exhaust system. The goal was improved performance — and it worked out nicely — with a great sound too. The horsepower has been increased to about 300 hp, from the original stock horsepower of 250 hp. Additionally, Tom reupholstered the seats, installed new carpeting, replaced the dashboard, and installed new glass. The only exception was painting, which was done by a local shop. All the work was completed in just under a year. After the restoration was complete, Tom’s high school dream car was a reality: A Corvette painted in his favorite color. OLRED has been part of the family ever since!

Personal

Tom retired several years back as the Engineering Manager from Homogeneous Metals, Inc. (HMI) in Clayville, NY. HMI is a world leader in the manufacture of structural super-alloy metals that are used in today's commercial, military, and space engines. He stays active volunteering for the Adirondack

TOM’S 1962 CORVETTE ENGINE WITH MODIFICATIONS 327 ci V-8, approx. 300 hp. An upgraded cam, carb, intake manifold & exhaust system TRANSMISSION 4-speed manual MILEAGE 72,000 miles EXTERIOR COLOR Honduras Maroon (Corvette color). The original color was Fawn Beige INTERIOR COLOR Fawn Beige WHEELS Aftermarket wheels 15” x 5.5”

Scenic Railroad, his church, and other civic organizations. He enjoys going to local car shows and cruise-ins, and has won numerous trophies over the years. Oh yeah, there are ten grandkids that keep him going too…and he’s loving it all! Turn the page to learn more about the history of the Chevy Corvette. 

Tom Wagner pictured with OLRED, his 1962 Corvette.

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1953-1962

Chevrolet Corvette (C1) The Chevrolet Corvette has been one of the most iconic and enduring American sports cars. It’s admired and respected by car aficionados in the United States and around the world. It is considered the first American sports car, hitting the market even before the Ford Thunderbird (1955). It was first introduced in 1953, and that first production year saw a variety of growing pains in terms of quality and performance. There were shortcomings in the fitand-finish of the fiberglass body panels. The engine was a 236 ci inline 6-cyl, with a paltry 150 hp. The expectations were high, but the positive reviews were lacking. Only 300 cars were produced that first year, far short of estimates. The program was almost canceled, but fortunately the management at Chevrolet decided to stay the course and continued to push forward. Despite the initial difficulties, improvements were continuously made, slowly gaining acceptance and growing in popularity. The first generation of the Chevrolet Corvette is known as the C1 generation. They are sometimes referred to as the “solid-axle generation,” because it was the only generation of Corvettes to use a standard solid axle. Starting in 1963, Chevrolet went to independent rear suspension. The C1 generation of cars were produced from 1953-1962. In 1955 Chevrolet rolled-out the V-8, a 265 ci small-block with 195hp. By 1957, the displacement increased to 283 ci, and that engine was used through the 1961 model year. The 1962 model, like Wagner’s car, was the last year for the C1 generation of Corvette. One of the biggest changes in 1962 was the engine, with the displacement increased again, this time to 327 ci. That engine was carried forward and used in the next generation, the C2, starting with the 1963 Corvette. There were four configurations of engines available in 1962 (see table). All were 327 ci small-block V-8s. All were carbureted except the top-performer, which was fuel injected. The fuel injected engine had 360 hp at 6,000 rpm, which is a very respectable 1.1 hp per cubic inch of displacement. After nine years in production, the Corvette (C1) had emerged as both a stylish and performance sports car, and was well on its way to becoming a true American classic.

1962 CHEVROLET CORVETTE (C1) PRODUCTION 14,531 cars manufactured

CONFIGURATION Convertible, with available hard-top option

ENGINES 4 available, all small-block V-8s with 327ci

TRANSMISSIONS 3 available

EXTERIOR COLORS Available In 1962

• 250 hp @ 4,400 rpm, Carter 4-barrel carb, 10.5:1, hydraulic-lifters • 300 hp @ 5,000 rpm, Carter 4-barrel carb, 10.5:1, hydraulic-lifters • 340 hp @ 6,000 rpm, Carter 4-barrel carb, 11.25:1, solid-lifters • 360 hp @ 6,000 rpm, Rochester fuel injection, 11.25:1, solid-lifters

• 3-speed manual (std) • 4-speed manual (opt) • 2-speed Powerglide automatic (opt)

• Almond Beige • Ermine White • Fawn Beige • Honduras Maroon • Roman Red • Sateen Silver • Tuxedo Black

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BRAKES Drum all-around WEIGHT 3,065 lbs COST NEW $4,038

SUMMER ISSUE 2019 APEX AUTOMOTIVE MAGAZINE // 15

1982

BUICK

Riviera When Buick introduced the Roadmaster Riviera in 1949, it was the first time the “Riviera” moniker was used. The Roadmaster Riviera was a 2-door coupe, sharing space with the Olds 98 and Cadillac Coupe DeVille. Then the Riviera name plate was attached to various Buick models over the years, but it wasn’t until 1963 that the Riviera became a distinct model of its own and introduced General Motors E platform, a platform that would be shared with the Cadillac Eldorado and the Oldsmobile Toronado in later years.

This rare 1982 Buick Riviera Convertible is one of only 1,248 of its kind produced.

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CONVERTIBLE Words by PETE MAIO | Photos by ROBERT KENNEY JR.

The sixth generation Riviera was introduced in 1979 (and ran through the 1985 model year) and was the first front wheel drive Riviera, again sharing its mechanical design and E platform with the Eldorado and Toronado. It distinguished itself in 1979 by becoming Motor Trend’s Car of the Year.

The 1982 Buick Riviera Convertible is arguably one of the rarest cars ever profiled by Apex to date. Becoming the first convertible offered by General Motors since the 1976 Cadillac Eldorado, the sixth generation Riviera was also the first convertible offered by Buick since 1975. As a “reintroduction” into the rag top market and based on the anticipated high cost, General Motors was going to limit first year production to a mere 500 cars. As plans were announced for the reintroduction of a luxury convertible, both dealers and prospective buyers showed great

interest and enthusiasm; this convinced GM to increase production to 1,248 vehicles. The 1982 Riviera was built at GM’s Linden, New Jersey assembly plant (as were all Riviera’s). Following initial production, the coupes were sent to the American Sunroof Corporation in Lansing, Michigan, to be transformed into convertibles. The conversion process required removing the coupes hardtop, reinforcing the body, adding a rear seat that was smaller than the original, and installing the mechanical and electrical components necessary to accommodate the convertible top. This required the installation of some 300 parts. When completed, these cars were shipped to dealers

SUMMER ISSUE 2019 APEX AUTOMOTIVE MAGAZINE // 17

with a base window sticker price of $24,064, more than $10,000 higher than a base Riviera Coupe. This priced the car at the top of the General Motors product line. The base model was equipped with a 252 cu. in. V-6 and a four-barrel carburetor producing 125 horsepower. A 307 cu. in. V-8 rated at 140 horsepower was available at extra cost, but neither engine would pull the car into the luxury sport or grand touring class. Bob Hoffman and his wife, Carmella, enjoyed cruising in her ’64-1/2 Mustang for a few years when in 2012 they decided to sell it and get something a little bigger and more comfortable. Bob had nothing specific in mind when he began looking. When he came across the 1982 Buick Riviera convertible featured here, he knew immediately that this was the car he wanted. He phoned his wife and bought the car on the spot. Bob’s car is a highly optioned

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one with everything from power seats to air conditioning, bringing the original sticker price to over $25,000. Bob’s Riviera also has the optional 307 V-8. While not a pristine show car, Bob’s car is a “driver,” and a damn nice one. He and Carmella love the attention it gets when they take it to a cruise or on a Sunday drive. In spite of the innovations and hype connected with the Riviera convertible, General Motors discontinued production following the 1985 model year. During its 4-year run only 3,898 units were produced making this an extremely rare production car. Surprisingly, when available, these cars sell at bargain basement prices. A search of Hemmings shows that a well-equipped generation six Riviera convertible can be had for about $10,000, a modest price to pay for a rare classic car to show, or just drive and enjoy.

Riviera

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1958 Ford Fairlane

500 Skyliner with Retractable Hardtop

Words by JIM MACLACHLAN

Photos by the owner, WAYNE CHASE

When Wayne Chase of Cicero was a youngster in Ogdensburg, NY, his father worked at the local Ford dealership. Through his father, he became exposed to all the new Fords

of the day which fostered his love of Ford cars. One day, Wayne laid his eyes on the brand new 1957 Ford Fairlane 500 Skyliner with its retractable top. He was fascinated with the intricacy and movement of the retractable hardtop, also known as a “HideAway Hardtop”. This car was an absolute marvel of engineering at the time and only remained in production for three years, from 1957 until 1959. Wayne told himself

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"An absolute marvel of engineering at the time." that someday he would own one of these cars, often referred to as a Retractable. In 1967, Wayne was 19 years old and looking for his first car. He spotted a white 1958 Retractable for sale on the side of the road and immediately recognized it as one he used to see on his paper route when he was a kid. Wayne was still going to college, but scraped together enough money to buy the car heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d always wanted. He talked the owner down to $650 for the car, a pretty good deal at the time as the car was loaded with options. It had a blue interior, Cruise-O-Matic transmission, power steering, power brakes, and a 352 cubic inch engine with 300 horsepower. By 1972, kids had come along, and

family responsibilities had become a priority. Storing and maintaining an extra car wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t in the budget so, regrettably, the car was sold. In 1981, still fascinated with Retractables, and a career now in full swing, Wayne went looking for another one. A trip to the big Ford show in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, was a bust as there were none for sale. The very next week, a buddy of his mentioned that he had spotted a 1958 Retractable for sale near Morrisville, NY. Wayne went out to look at the car and as soon as he saw it, handed over the $3,000 asking price. He was not going to let another one of these rare cars slip through his fingers. The newly purchased 1958 Retractable only had 49,000 on

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Wayne and his wife Gail with his 1958 Ford Fairlane 500 Skyliner with retractable top.

the odometer, however it needed a lot of work. So, in 1982 with the help of his friends in the local Syracuse Ford Mustang Club, Wayne went to work on the car. The engine and transmission were rebuilt, the brakes thoroughly gone through, and a new coat of the car’s original Torch Red and Colonial White paint were applied. The car’s signature retractable top barely worked, so with great effort, the 300-pound top was removed and its intricate workings repaired. The retractable top really is an amazingly complex mechanical marvel. It has seven reversible electric motors, ten relays, ten solenoids, over a dozen limit switches, four lift jacks, four locking mechanisms for the roof, two locking mechanisms for the trunk lid, and a total of 610 feet of wiring, all working in unison. The car’s trunk space is spacious with the top up, but with the top retracted into the trunk, storage space is limited to a small tub in the center. Ford made specially fitted luggage to fit in this tub, similar to the expensive Italian cars of the day. The spare tire was moved to where the fuel 24 // APEX AUTOMOTIVE MAGAZINE SUMMER ISSUE 2019

tank is usually found and the fuel tank was placed vertically behind the rear seat, which inadvertently added safety in rear collisions. Ford made 14,713 of the retractable top Skyliners in 1958, and Wayne estimates that only about 650 remain. His car has the 332 cubic inch engine producing 265 horsepower with a 4-barrel carburetor, dual exhaust, and CruiseO-Matic transmission. It weighs 4,200 lbs. and is 210.8 inches long. As far as options, it was a pretty basic car with very few options from the factory. Over the years he added mirrors and various chrome trim bits and pieces. As Wayne became involved with the International Ford Retractable Club, he started to drive to events across the country. For safety reasons, he added power front disk brakes, power steering, and radial tires. The car was professionally repainted in 1990 with the same original colors, and the engine rebuilt again at 99,000 miles. Today it checks in with 105,000 miles. Wayne’s car has won many awards and trophies over the years. In ad-

dition to attending many local and regional car shows, he has driven the car to national Ford Retractable Club shows in Wisconsin, South Carolina, Tennessee, Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Michigan. The car has taken laps at the Charlotte Motor Speedway and the Ford Proving Grounds in Dearborn, Michigan. It was also featured in a Christmas advertisement for Fay’s Drug store, complete with Santa in the driver’s seat and an elf in the back delivering packages. Today, Wayne is President of the East Coast Chapter of the International Ford Retractable Club, and his wife Gail is the Membership Chairman. The club has about 1,000 members from all over the world. This year the national convention is in York, Pennsylvania, and Wayne is chairing and hosting the event. He expects 70-75 Retractables to be in attendance from all over the country. Many of these rare cars will be trailered to the event, but Wayne will be driving his.

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LAMBORGHINI GALLARDO Words by MIKE MASTRACCO | Photos by DALTON DOBSON

When it comes to exotic supercars there are many to choose from in the international market place. Ferrari’s, McLaren’s, Bugatti’s, and of course one man’s favorite, a Lamborghini. This 2014 Giallo (yellow) Midas Pearl Effect Lamborghini Gallardo “LP 550-2” belongs to Angelo Alberici of northern Onondaga County.

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The first time he glanced at this magnificent piece of art, Angelo Alberici's thought was, “I have to have one.”

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In the 10 years that Lamborghini has produced the Gallardo from 2004 to 2014, the Gallardo became the best-selling model in the company's 50-year history. This LP 550-2 Spyder roadster pictured here is equipped with a mid-mounted 5.2-liter V10 that produces 550 horsepower and 397 pound-feet of torque. This Gallardo is legendary for exotic styling, ferocious power and the fantastic noises at first start. At start-up, the engine comes to life with a loud roar to identify its position in the wild. After several seconds this roar tames down to a soft, but potent rumble. Standard equipment on the LP5502 model includes 19-inch wheels, an automatically extending rear spoiler, bi-xenon headlights, power-folding mirrors, a nose-raising suspension for curb clearance, dual-zone automatic climate control, power seats, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, leather upholstery, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a multimedia driver interface system, and a four-speaker sound system with a CD player. The Spyder has a full power-operated soft top and standard safety features on all 2014 Lamborghini Gallardo models include anti-lock brakes, stability control, and side airbags with head protection. Notably, this supercar stretches all the envelopes from engine performance to styling to driver amenities. Here’s a bit of unusual trivia: Two Gallardos have been ‘temporary” police cars for the Metropolitan Police in London, one in 2005 and one in 2006 for specific publicity events! Angelo fell in amore with this car when his eyes first glanced at the lines, the curves, and the extraordinary wedge shape. He says the first time he glanced at this magnificent piece of art his thought was, “I have to have one.” It was a sharp looking car, a special car, a car like this combined with the color will be very noticeable driving down the road. To him, this car is something special and it stands out in a crowd. Angelo tells me that when driving over a bumpy road, just push a button and the car will raise 3-4” above the road to smooth it out. Once over 30 MPH the roadster will automatically lower to the original driving position. Angelo loves to start his car up in front of onlookers and look at their faces when the rumble starts,

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eyes open wide, smiles are abundant, and the crowd settles in for the music the V10 engine projects to his audience. Angelo grew up in a small town in Italy called Toccolana. For a small town of less than 3,000 people it was rare to see a sports car outside of the city limits. Since he was a very young lad his dreams started here of owning a sports car someday in the future. He carried his dream from Italy to the United States. His father and father’s friend were successful bicycle racers in Italy for many years. This might have ignited the spark in Angelo’s head about sports cars. Whatever formed that spark over sixty years ago, it has stayed with him all this time. Angelo owns a few other collectibles as well. His first sports car purchase was back in 1982. This was a Chevrolet Camaro Z28 T-Top Indy 500 Pace car. This is the car that placed Angelo on the road to sports car ownership. Every time Angelo purchases a new car he tells me that he feels ten years younger, he also feels he accomplished something again in life. Other cars that allowed Angelo to step back in the age category are a

Ferrari, Mustang Cobra, and a couple of Corvettes. These are just a few that dot his garage. One special Corvette was a birthday present from his wife and sons. His wife asked him how he would like to celebrate his 60th birthday and Angelo replied with a new white Corvette. They made it happen. Currently he is the owner of two white Corvettes, the latest a 2017 Zo6. I asked him what car he likes the most, “I like them all” was his reply. He added to that by saying that he appreciates them all and he enjoys looking at them, as to him they are all beautiful. With a small glass of wine, music in the background, he keeps all his fine automobiles polished and shiny like a plane full of newlyweds showing off their diamonds while heading to their honeymoon destination. This is what makes Angelo happy, he enjoys all the time he spends with his fine family of automobiles. About sports car ownership, Angelo states that he would do it all over again. It is always a pleasure talking with Angelo, as he is a true connoisseur of fine automobiles.

Angelo Alberici with his 2014 Lamborghini Gallardo “LP 550-2”.

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Hot Wheels Words by MIKE MASTRACCO The first Hot WheelsTM toy products were introduced in 1968 during the New York Toy Fair which is described as the largest toy trade show in the Western hemisphere. Since their introduction there have been over six billion Hot WheelsTM products produced and currently each week Mattel rolls out an additional 10 million more! These are some impressive numbers when it comes to one small toy that gets displayed with a cardboard backing. Mattel estimates that 41 million children grew up playing with the Hot WheelsTM brand of toys. It is projected that the average collector has over 1,550 cars and children between the ages of 5 and 15 have an average of 41 cars each. Annual events include a Collectors Convention and Collectors Nationals. There also is a Hot

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“TWIN MILL”

WheelsTM Newsletter, along with a Price Guide that includes history, car descriptions and values, which is used by many collectors to learn more about the hobby and their collection. Pictured here is the first life-size Hot WheelsTM car ever produced called the Twin Mill. The Twin Mill is the most memorable and popular Hot WheelsTM car of all time, so much so that Hot WheelsTM themselves made a real life, full scale fully functioning replica. The original Twin Mill Hot WheelsTM toy debuted in 1969, and after several retooling jobs continues to be produced today. Twin Mill gets its name from twin 8.2 L supercharged Chevrolet 502 big block V8s that produce a total of 1,401 hp and an astonishing 1,401 ft·lb of torque. This life size toy accelerates from 0-100 mph in 5.3 seconds and top speed is 231 mph! Everyone is familiar with the Hot WheelsTM line of toys, however Hot WheelsTM also has a complete line

of exterior car care products. These products include a Wash & Wax, Epic Shine, All Wheel Cleaner, Pro Tire Cleaner and Pro Tire Finish. These Hot WheelsTM Americana Series Car Care products were born and bred right here in Central New York. Founder and President Daniel Pikarsky grew up in the Camillus, NY area and never lost his love for his roots. To follow up with the excitement the Hot WheelsTM exterior products created in the market place when introduced, Dan mentioned a new line of interior products will soon be hitting the market early this summer. If these interior products perform like the exterior products Dan and his Hot WheelsTM crew will have another checkered flag winner on their hands. For more information on these products check them out at https:// americanapro.com/hotwheels/ or like them at Hot Wheels Car Care Products on Facebook.

1935 PACKARD

1205 Super CONV

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Eight 883 NVERTIBLE SEDAN The name alone is a story by itself. Words by PETE MAIO Photos by CHRIS PENREE

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When one reads or hears “Packard” one immediately thinks of luxury, prestige, status, and wealth. All of the other adjectives in the title identify the unique Packard being profiled here.

Natalie Brown fell in love with a 30’s vintage Packard Convertible in June of 1999 while she and her husband Warren

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were at a car show in Vermont where Packard was the featured car. Natalie pointed to a 30s Packard Convertible and said, “That’s the car I want” to which Warren replied, “Dream on, you’ll never get one.” Well as we all know, happy wife – happy life and only a few months later in the fall of 1999 Natalie was going to get her dream car. A business acquaintance of Warren’s urged him to check out a 1935 Packard that was being made available by the owner who had purchased it in the 1950’s. Warren’s first thought was to pass on this car, as he already had a few classic cars including a 1932 Packard model 902, a 1939

Plymouth Road King, a 1956 Dodge Pickup, and three Corvettes to name a few. There were also a few vintage motorcycles in the mix. Later, on a Sunday afternoon, Warren decided to take Natalie for a ride to see the car before it left the area. The Packard was in the corner of a barn, alongside other cars, and was not like the low mileage cars Warren was used to acquiring. The car was rough, but solid. Natalie retreated to their car to warm up and when Warren returned, he asked her what she thought. Without hesitation Natalie said “Just buy it. It’s my dream car.” And Warren did. In 1935 Packard introduced their

Twelfth Series cars. There were three models available in 1935, the Eight, Super Eight, and Twelve. The bodies of the Super Eight and Twelve were interchangeable while the Eight had a smaller wheelbase. Both steel and wood were used on the body by Dietrich; Ray Dietrich, whose designs defined Packardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greatest era, was notably the most prolific designer of his time. The

series twelve Super Eight has a 144 inch wheelbase and weighs 5,050 pounds. The eight cylinder engine produces 150 horsepower and has a Stromberg EE-23 carburetor. The MSRP for the base 1935 Packard 1205 Super 883 Convertible Sedan was $4,010. Consider that $1,000 in 1935 is equivalent to $18,653 in purchasing power today! A complete frame off restoration

Every detail was replicated to exacting original standards.

to original specifications began in January of 2003 and was completed in 2008. The late James Burth of Carlyle Motors Antique Automobile Restoration in Poland took the lead. Dan Schwertfeger of UAP Auto Engine Rebuilders in Utica rebuilt the Super Eight engine. J&R Upholstery of Binghamton did the interior; they also installed the convertible top with material supplied by the Hartz Corporation. Eric Gleasman of Remsen did the woodwork. Brown-Randall of Herkimer made the paint to match the original production color, Columbian Beige, and Paulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Chrome Plating of Pennsylvania restored the bling - a

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SAM_maserati_half page.pdf

CMY

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virtual who’s who in auto restoration in the Northeast. Every detail was replicated to exacting original standards. Natalie’s car is one of 51 produced and has options that include a divider window between the front and rear seats, dual side-mounted spare tires, a front bumper, radio, and heater.

As members of the Mohawk Motorcades Automobile Club for more than 25 years, Warren and Natalie were elated to display the restored Packard at the 2009 Fountain Elms Invitational. They were very excited to receive an invitation to the 2015 Hemmings Motor News Concours D ‘Elegance, but just before that event Warren suffered a heart attack and died at the age of 63. With the encouragement and support of many friends, Natalie proudly drove the Packard onto the grounds at Saratoga. After Warren’s passing, Natalie was unable to manage their incredible collection and decided to sell most of it. She literally cried as each car left, as each carried its own memories of a shared passion. But she kept the Packard and a 1979 Beetle that reminds her of the first car she ever had, a 1971 Beetle. And the passion remains; Natalie is currently restoring a 1965 Oldsmobile 442. We look forward to seeing it completed.

Natalie Brown with her 1935 Packard 1205 Super Eight 883 convertible sedan.

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Aaron Tipton 1958 Brockway Model 157

August 8-11, 2019 Downtown Cortland, NY

Thursday, August 8, 2019 6:00 p.m. Brockway Ice Cream Cruise-In at Supercream on Rt. 281 in Homer Friday, August 9, 2019 11:00 a.m. “Huskie Drive” starting at Brockway Museum 5:00-7:00 p.m. Wine, Craft Beer & Cider Tasting at CNY Living History Center 6:00-7:30 p.m. Italian Dinner, fundraising dinner at the Brockway Museum (reservations required) 7:30 p.m. Brockway Live Auction 9:30 p.m. Spectacular Fireworks Display

Major Sponsors:

Saturday, August 10, 2019 8:30 a.m. Parade from Brockway Museum to Main St., Downtown Cortland 9:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Trucks parked on Main Street; Brockway exhibit by Cortland County Historical Society

3:00 p.m. Presentation of awards on Main Street (in front of NBT Bank) 5:00-7:00p.m. Bob’s BBQ buffet at Brockway Museum (reservations required) Sunday, August 11, 2019 8:00-11:00 a.m. Pancake Breakfast at Brockway Museum (pay at the door) 8:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Fifth Annual South Central NY Chapter of ATCA All-Make Truck Show (lunch available)

Scan with your Smartphone to visit our Website!

607-299-4185 www.cnylivinghistory.org • info@brockwaytrucks.org • www.brockwaytrucks.org

Q56743_2019Brockway_Ad1_3.50x4.75.indd 1

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Pat and Penny Santy's

Words by JIM MACLACHLAN | Photos by JOSH BAIN

TWO TRIUMPH TR6S

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What could be better than owning a Triumph TR6 sports car to cruise around in? How about having two of them to choose from! The two cars featured are owned by Pat and Penny Santy of Syracuse, NY. Triumph made 94,619 TR6s from 1969 until 1976. Almost all of these

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were exported to the United States with only about 8,370 remaining in the United Kingdom. Although it only had a short seven-year production span, today the TR6 is considered a true classic British sports car. Produced as a convertible only, a removable hardtop was offered as an option. One of Patâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cars has this option, and it is a rare sight to see one today. The stock engine offered was a six-cylinder, putting out

about 104 horsepower, which provided plenty of fun in a car weighing in at about 2,400 pounds. Pat bought his 1970 midnight blue TR6 in 1980 for $350. The car had been in a flood and the engine was seized. He rebuilt the original engine, performed a quick mechanical rebuild to the rest of the car, and drove it until 1991 when it was treated to a total frame off restoration. Pat says he liter-

ally cut the car in half and gave it new sheet metal, floors, door jambs, and front and rear valences. The interior was redone including reupholstering the seats and installing a new solid walnut dash that Pat cut out by hand and refinished himself. The engine remained basically stock sporting two Stromberg carburetors. The old painted wire wheels were replaced with new 15-inch chrome center hub

Dayton wire wheels. Finally, the car was painted midnight blue with PPG Concept single stage paint. Pat did all the work himself except applying the paint. The removable hardtop was added a few years later and was restored to the same high standards as the rest of the car. The hardtop not only changes the look of the car, it provides better visibility, makes the interior quieter, and adds to the carâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

structural rigidity. In 2000, Pat came across the 1975 TR6 parked in a driveway where it had been sitting for years. It was all apart, sinking in the ground, and covered with leaves and mold. He stopped to inquire about the car. A couple of days and $500 later, he was trailering it home. The car was originally from Colorado, so it didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have the usual rust found in local cars. Once Pat

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realized the frame of the car was in mint condition, he decided to restore it, adding as many high-performance goodies as he could. The list of high-performance enhancements to the car is impressive. The engine has a high-performance cam, roller rockers, 3 Weber side draft carburetors, engine oil cooler, MSD CDI Ignition, PerTronics coil,

Falcon stainless steel headers, Monza dual exhaust, and a Wizard Cooling aluminum radiator. To handle all the additional horsepower, Pat also added 4 piston calipers, cross drilled rotors, Koni Shocks, front and rear adjustable competition sway bars, and 16-inch Panasport racing wheels with Bridgestone 215-16 tires. He also lowered the car an inch and runs 4.10 gears with

TOPAZ 1975 TR6

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an overdrive transmission for third and fourth gear. Pat did all the work himself, including the engine and chassis modifications, body work, and spraying the topaz color PPG Concept single stage paint. He completed the car in 2006 and estimates it puts out between 140 and 150 horsepower. If you are standing behind this car when itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fired up, you will definitely hear

MIDNIGHT BLUE 1970 TR6 that “don’t mess with me” sound. Pat and Penny enjoy driving both TR6s for general cruising around and attending the occasional car show. Although they have collected an impressive number of trophies and awards from the car shows, their real passion is racing the cars. Both Pat and Penny are regular competitors in the Central New York Chapter of the

Jaguar Club of North America’s slalom events where they regularly win their class and are usually the fastest cars of the day. They have collected even more awards from winning the slaloms than displaying the cars at car shows. Both cars are quick, but the 1975 TR6 with the performance modifications is the quicker of the two. Penny usually races the midnight blue 1970 TR6 and Pat

the topaz 1975. However, Penny has started to compete in the quicker car. Pat admits that with a bit more experience in the car, she will probably be equaling his slalom times. The twinkle in her eye when Pat mentioned this leads me to believe that her plans are not to just equal his times, but to beat them. Personally, I wouldn’t bet against her. SUMMER ISSUE 2019 APEX AUTOMOTIVE MAGAZINE // 45

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‘Most difficult antique bike endurance run in the world’ Motorcycle Cannonball

Words by BOB SBLENDORIO | Photos by ROBERT KENNEY JR. “It was an ass-kicker,” is probably an understatement. How about riding for eight hours on a cantankerous 11-hp, rigid frame 1915 HarleyDavidson with no windshield, laboring up the “Going-to-the-Sun” road in Glacier National Park, battling constant headwinds, ascending 7,000 feet in elevation, crossing the Continental Divide, through fog, which turned to mist, then rain, then wet snow and snow at the top? Along the way, making any and all repairs by yourself ? After surviving that day’s ride, having to work on the bike until midnight or 1:00 am, and then finally going to sleep… up at 6:00 am to do it all again? That’s a typical day — of the sixteen grueling days — participating in the Motorcycle Cannonball Endurance Run. When 69-yearold Steve DeCosa referred to the event as an “ass-kicker,” it’s definitely (not probably) an understatement. The 2018 Cannonball was the third time DeCosa competed and endured this event. In 2014, Steve rode a green 1927 Harley-Davidson from Daytona to Tacoma. In 2016, he rode the 1915 Harley from Atlantic City, New Jersey to San Diego, California, and rode

Starting line in Portland, Maine. — Courtesy of Steve DeCosa

the same bike in 2018 from Portland, Maine to Portland, Oregon. Why would anyone put himself through such a grueling event? Unwavering drive and passion, that’s shared with his beloved Crew Chief…his wife, Joan! He gets results too: DeCosa was the Class III winner in both the 2016 and 2018 events!

Background and Rules All of the bikes entered are antiques and must be pre-1929. In 2018, the Cannonball was billed as Portland, Maine to Portland, Oregon, 3,400 miles. In actuality, the grand finale was moved to the Skamania Lodge in Stevenson, Washington...not too far from Portland. The route was on mostly secondary roads, through every imaginable terrain and weather condition. It’s an every-otheryear event, the next scheduled for 2020. There are three classes: Class I is single cyl, single speed; Class II is single cyl, multi-speed or multi-cyl, single-speed; Class III is multi cyl, multi-speed. There were a total of 107 entrants competing in 2018, of which 45 achieved “perfect” scores. A perfect score means leaving in the morning within 45-minutes of the scheduled departure and arriving, at the end of the day, again within a 45-minute window. Each day SUMMER ISSUE 2019 APEX AUTOMOTIVE MAGAZINE // 47

1915 Harley-Davidson Model 11F

Steve DeCosa was the Class III winner in the 2016 and 2018 Motorcycle Cannonball Endurance Run with this 1915 Harley-Davidson.

ENGINE 61 ci, V-twin, 11 hp DRIVETRAIN 3-speed, with primary & secondary chains SUSPENSION Rigid rear, front leadinglink with coil springs BRAKES Drum, double-acting, right foot lever IGNITION Magneto HEADLIGHT Original acetylene-burning, DeCosa’s is an LED TOP-SPEED 65-70 mph 40-45 mph cruising COST NEW $275 (3-speed model)

entails about 8-hours of Harley Davidson, Indian, riding, with routes varying Henderson, Triumph, Norton, between 250-350 miles. Each and Excelsior. Also interestrider gets 1-point for each ing, per the rules, support mile completed, and then vehicles are not allowed to also 1-point for each minute travel the designated routes; late (leaving or arriving). meaning riders have to make If a rider leaves within the the plethora of needed repairs scheduled window in the by themselves with no team morning and arrives within support. They have to carry the scheduled time...that all the anticipated spare parts equates to a perfect score for they might need and the tools that day. Furthermore, the to facilitate the repair. scoring considers the age DeCosa had sixteen perfect of the bike, the older bike scores, and with that won affords an advantage. Also, first place in Class III in there is a handicapping 2016 and 2018. Impressive! advantage for the older the In 2018, the event overall rider. So yeah—a really old winner was Dean Bordigioni, guy or gal driving a really of Sonoma, California, riding old bike—is best for scoring. a 1914 Harley-Davidson, The route, provided only which is a single-cylinder/ a half hour prior to each single-speed transmission. day’s start, is loaded into a DeCosa explained that scrolling device mounted the Cannonball riders came on the bike. It’s many pages from all walks of life and all long and loaded with a ton of route details...with virRepairing a burned exhaust tually no time to study. valve at Competition These intrepid riders Distributing in Sturgis, SD struggle mightily piloting – Courtesy of Steve DeCosa a variety of machines, like: 48 // APEX AUTOMOTIVE MAGAZINE SUMMER ISSUE 2019

share the same passion for riding vintage motorcycles.

“The Silent Grey Fellow” The 1915 Harley-Davidson — referred to as the “The Silent Grey Fellow,” — is a reference to the machine’s relatively quiet sound when the muffler cutout was closed, and the machine’s color. DeCosa described his 1915 as “highly original,” meaning it has the

original frame, engine, and transmission. The bike’s “sweet-spot” for cruising is 43 mph, with a topspeed of 65-70 mph, but that’s not sustainable for such a long endurance event. With a 2-gallon gas tank, DeCosa was able to go about 60-65 miles before filling up. The bike’s gas tank is a split design, one side for gas and the other for oil.

Planning By now you’re probably ready to sign up, right? Well, it definitely requires a lot of planning, expense, physical training...and luck! The support vehicle and trailer carried an extensive amount of carefully selected spare parts and tools. The team’s Crew Chief was Joan, DeCosa’s wife. His daughter, Alyson, was the Assistant Crew Chief. It’s a family affair through-and-through, with each doing anything and everything. DeCosa was very proud to have an all-female pit crew.

Heritage Softail. DeCosa is a retired high school industrial arts/technology teacher, beloved by students who would often come to work on their 3D modeling and CAD projects during their lunchtime and after school. He would challenge them, and the engagement by the students was infectious. DeCosa, who taught for 36 years,

Personal DeCosa got involved with motorcycles about eight years ago, a passion that was simmering for a long time. It was his wife who lit-the-fire, so-to-speak, by encouraging his desire to get a motorcycle. So at 62 years old, he got his learner’s permit, license, and purchased his first bike, a 2008 Harley-Davidson SUMMER ISSUE 2019 APEX AUTOMOTIVE MAGAZINE // 49

Above: Starting line with entire field of riders in Portland, Maine. – Courtesy of Steve DeCosa

Above: Team DeCosa celebrating at the finish line with about 100 other riders after 16 grueling days of riding and wrenching.

“loved it.” He was also a driver’s education teacher for many years, supporting the “Let’s Not Meet by Accident” program, a reality-based trauma prevention program for young drivers. About one thousand students went through the program during his tenure. Joan, his wife of forty-seven years, was a 7th grade English teacher, having worked for 39 years, before retiring. What DeCosa and his team

Left: 2018 Class III (multi-cyl/multisp) winner Steve DeCosa with daughter & Assistant Crew Chief, Alyson and wife & Crew Chief, Joan.

and the other teams did in this historic event as participants is certainly the envy of many. It reminded me of a famous quote by Henry Ford: “If you think you can, or you think you can’t – you’re right,” emphasizing the mental and physical toughness needed for success in life, and is certainly fitting in this case. Good luck to Team DeCosa in the 2020 event!

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– Courtesy of Steve DeCosa

Erwin George “Cannon Ball” Baker — Courtesy of Motorcycle Cannonball

Below: Crew Chief Joan DeCosa wrenching late into the night in Kalispell, Montana.

– Courtesy of Steve DeCosa

History - Motorcycle Cannonball Endurance Run The Motorcycle Cannonball Endurance Run was named in honor of Erwin George “Cannon Ball” Baker, as a way to pay homage to his many exploits on motorcycles and automobiles in the early 1900s. “Cannon Ball” was a moniker given by a reporter in 1915 after Baker completed a cross-country race in an automobile in record time. The moniker, “Cannon Ball,” was after a train known as the Cannonball Express in central Illinois. In all, he made some 143 crosscountry trips across the United States on early motorcycles…simply amazing. Fast forward to 2010, the first year for the Motorcycle Cannonball, which ran from Kitty Hawk, North Carolina to Santa Monica, California. The original concept for having the event was to celebrate old antique bikes by riding them, versus tucking them away in some garage or viewing them in museums. It was the vision and the passion of the late Lonnie Isam, Jr. of Sturgis, South Dakota who conceived the idea of riding with a group of friends cross-country as the best way to respect and honor the technology of these antique bikes. The event grew from there into a truly historic event. After Lonnie’s passing, Jason and Lee Ann Sims, also of Sturgis, have taken up the helm and done an admirable job of continuing the Motorcycle Cannonball.

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Nino’s Collision LLC Words by MIKE MASTRACCO | Photos by ROBERT KENNEY JR.

It all started in the late 1940s in a small picturesque town in southern Italy with a motorcycle shop. Ride forward a few years and then imagine a father and his sons working on motorcycles together through the 1960s and into the mid-1970s. This is when Nino Cannata acquired his ability to work on many things mechanical.

Nino decided to cross the big sea over to the United States to meet up with his brothers Rocco, Lou, and Mario who had previously moved to the Syracuse area. Nino’s first day 52 // APEX AUTOMOTIVE MAGAZINE SUMMER ISSUE 2019

of work here stateside was Monday, December 20, 1976 at his brother Lou’s Sunoco station just north of Liverpool. At this time, Nino was wrenching the cars in his brother’s shop along with actively learning the body shop trade at the same time. After a few years working with his brothers, Nino decided to go on his own. It was 1984 when Nino opened his first body shop on Division Street, on the northside of Syracuse. He has been mounting and painting fenders ever since. Currently, Nino’s Collision LLC is located just south of Baldwinsville at 7361 State Fair Blvd. (Rt. 48). Nino, along with his son Luigi, have been in this location for over 15 years. He and his crew perform all sorts of collision and body work, as well as taking on restoration projects. Nino’s right-hand man Ed, deals with many of the everyday customers that come in for work on their vehicles which is the majority of their business. Ed also works closely with many insurance companies when needed for what is called direct repairs. This state-of-the-art facility has all the modern amenities that anyone would expect in a modern day body

Nino's was the first body repair shop in New York State to start using PPG Envirobase High Performance Paint System technology. shop/collision center. Nino was the first body repair shop in New York State to start using the new technology â&#x20AC;&#x153;PPG Envirobase High Performance Paint System.â&#x20AC;? Since 2004, this new technology has changed the way the automotive industry looks at and deals with aftermarket painting and is now the leading premium waterborne paint system in North America. Nino and his crew also utilize a computerized paint system to give the best color match possible to each vehicle. Other necessary items that a 21th century shop needs are employees that can weld well using MIG welders for spot welding, aluminum welding, also gas welding along with stick or arc welding. Nino is well equipped with over 10 work

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bays, a prep station, a dedicated paint booth, and a frame machine that uses computerized laser targets to pinpoint distortions in the frame. As mentioned earlier, Nino does restoration work and collision work. Nino and his crew have worked on many high-end autos such as Ferraris, Porsches, Maseratis, and BMWs just to name a few. Currently there is a 1950 Chrysler in the shop being restored next to a VW Bug that is also getting a frame off restoration before a 300 H.P. motor gets installed. To fix some of the misfortunes of automobile racing, Nino has also taken care of a variety of race cars from the historic Watkins Glen Race Circuit. Nino’s generous contribution to the Town of Lysander is one of his more unusual projects which was taking care of the old worn out Zamboni that belonged to the Lysander Ice Arena. Much of the body of this massive machine was cracked and in a distressed condition. Nino and his crew worked wonders to make it look new again. Af54 // APEX AUTOMOTIVE MAGAZINE SUMMER ISSUE 2019

ter a two-tone silver & turquoise paint job, it is now ready to tackle the ice for many years to come. Nino has received letters from happy customers along with a certificate from Allstate Insurance Company for “Top Customer Service & Overall Performance” in CNY out of 68 shops. Once

chatting with Nino, you can tell he has a passion for what he does, which is being the best in his trade by delivering top quality work. Visit Nino, his son Luigi, and his crew at http://ninoscollision.net/ or phone Ed at 315-638-0281. You will be in good hands.

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‘Car Club Still Building Real Steel’

BAYSIDE CRUISERS

Words and photos provided by RON ALEXANDER

t was a cold December Saturday morning as I drove to the west side of Little Sodus Bay to see for myself the progress I’d been reading about in the weekly emails from the club president, Darrell Uetz. In a small storage garage converted into a club shop, with borrowed and acquired tools and equipment, several members of the Bayside Cruisers work to disassemble and straighten a project most people could only dream of doing…an all steel body Ford Model A. The build was an idea to bring club members together to enjoy each other’s company. Each member

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contributing what they can in experience, knowledge, supplies, coffee, or humor. The car was acquired by a member, and will be owned by the club until it’s completed. It has not seen the road since 1986. It was an 80’s era hot rod with some modifications. The previous work was not done to the highest quality. The plan is to strip it down and build-it-up-right, utilizing the highest quality parts, with an attention to safety being a primary goal. This story is not supposed to be about the car, but about the club. The club was started when a group of post-war

guys were looking for some excitement. That started when they found that the road leading into the State Park in Fair Haven was a flat stretch that naturally fulfilled their need for speed. To prevent a tragedy, an area trooper and a school principal suggested they form a

club and the “Bayside Cruisers” was born as a result. The club restoration of a 1923 fire truck, that still runs in the annual 4th of July parade, is one of many projects. It’s a testament to the skills and devotion of this small, but well-organized group of people. Each year the club puts on a 4th of July car show (July 6, 2019) as part of the weekend celebration in Fair Haven, drawing thousands of people. Proceeds from the show help to develop scholarship opportunities and charitable contributions that the club makes every year. SUMMER ISSUE 2019 APEX AUTOMOTIVE MAGAZINE // 59

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2019 Syracuse Nationals

This year's Syracuse Nationals Car Show is July 19-21, 2019 at the NY State Fairgrounds.

Words and photos by JOHN ZACHARY

or the past 20 years I have looked forward to the middle of July, knowing that I will be spending three fun filled days at the NY State Fairgrounds for the Annual Syracuse Nationals Car Show. This year is no different. I have been

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planning for the Nationals on July 19-21, 2019 for some time. We are blessed to have such an important car show in our backyards. If you have never attended the Syracuse Nationals, I would say take the time and check it out, you will under-

stand what all the fuss is about. NAPA Auto Parts – Greater Syracuse Area, Meguiar’s Car Care, The Meguire Family of Dealerships and Cantech Automotive will be some of the sponsors for this years 20th anniversary show. The 2018 show was a huge year with nearly 95,000 joining in the fun, admiring some 8,200 classic cars and trucks. Tucci Hot Rods will be giving away a 32 Ford twin turbo street rod to some lucky participant. Ralph Holguin, from the popular TV series RMD Garage will be on hand during this year’s event. Rat rod lovers will be able to stroll through the Ol Skool Tent all three days taking in some of the wildest custom cars and trucks around, while listening to Rockabilly Music by local bands. One of the reasons I love this show

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is the Designers Dozen entries. These creations are gorgeous, and the builders blow-my-mind with their wild ideas that they make into real life automobiles for us to enjoy. From well-known designers to backyard builders, they’re all part of this elite group. Legendary builder Gene Winfield will be on hand with his Winfield Award picks, along with pinstripers from all over the country participating in Artie’s

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Party, raising money for charity. Over 1.4 million dollars has been raised in the last 19 years of the show. If you like nostalgic drag cars, then you will not want to miss Gasoline Alley Nostalgic Race Car Display. Some of these cars are rare pieces from the past that helped shape today’s 1/4 mile drag machines. There are so many things going on all three days that you will never get bored

during your visit to the Syracuse Nationals. Twenty years running for a show must mean that the people from Right Coast Inc. are doing something right. If you’re into cool cars, great food, or are just looking for something to do in the middle of summer, I would suggest planning a day or two at the NY State Fairgrounds for this year’s Syracuse Nationals Car Show. I hope to see you there.

CNY EVENT SCHEDULE

(315) 404-6356 BMPAUTOWORX.COM UTICA, NY

ALL EVENTS LISTED ARE IN NY STATE