Region Rides - May 2015

Printed in NWI

May 2015 | Volume III | Issue 2

FREE

Memorial Day Special Issue

12

20

24

22

In This Issue

TOO NICE RAT Bob Warzyniak’s ‘39 Chevy Rat Rod

8

8

Calvin Hamilton’s ‘02 Harley Davidson

12

454 PLUS Gene Dunivant’s ‘70 Malibu

16

Hoosier’s Hottest Garage Barnyard Baggers

20

Region Events: 20th Annual Schepel Charity Car Show

22

Three’s a Charm - Cal. Harley Davidson

24

69th Annual Soapbox Derby

26

DeMotte Cruise-In Benefit Veterans

28

Valpo Free Car Show

30

Buddy & Pal’s Bike Night

32

Show & Cruise Schedules 36

PUBLISHER Mark Halliar Mark@RegionRides.com Senior Writer Ray Saez Jr. Contributing Writers Stephanie Edwards Melissa Garcia Contributing Photographers Jerome Hindmon Cary Robertson Jessica Halliar Layout Design Designs.by.Mark@gmail.com

16

Printing Home Mountain Printing 3602 Enterprise Ave. Valparaiso, IN 46383 219.462.6601 Advertising & Submissions Region Rides LLC PO Box 283 Valparaiso IN 46384 708.821.6941 Sales@RegionRides.com

30

26

Region Rides is a monthly publication by Region Rides LLC. All rights reserved. Production without permission is strictly prohibited. All photographs & articles submitted become the sole property of Region Rides Magazine. ©2015 Region Rides LLC

Too Ni Bob “Rainbow Lungs” Warzyniak | Crown Point, IN | 1939 Chevy Pick-Up

| Many of you might recognize Bob “Rainbow Lungs” Warzyniak from another issue of Region Rides. He wrote a cool piece for us that explained and detailed the concept of the “Rat Rod.” That’s the kind of guy he is – if it’s there, it can be made into

Bob’s been a car guy for all his life. In fact, that’s where the nickname “Rainbow Lungs” came from.

When he was a high school student, he worked at a body shop for a used car dealer. Because of all the fumes and the different colors of paint used (unlike

something better, and different, and he’s not afraid to tackle any project. This is Bob’s 1939 Chevrolet Pickup Hot Rod. No, it’s not a rat rod anymore, but it was. Now he says it’s too nice, and we agree, but deep down inside lies the soul of a rat.

today’s sea of gray), the name “Rainbow Lungs” just seemed to stick, and he embraces it.

He’s owned the ’39 Chevy pickup since 2011, but he bought it as a roller with the powertrain that it currently has. It’s got a 327 V8 and turbo 350 automat-

Region Rides Magazine | Page 8 | May 2015

ice Rat Words: Ray Saez Jr | Images: Jerome Hindmon

Special thanks to Crown Brewing in Crown Point for allowing us to use your building as a back drop!

ic from a 1969 Camaro, its front disc brakes, and the 10 bolt rear from the Camaro as well. The grille

chopping the ‘39. That November, the truck was over at Denny’s “Lake Rats Garage” and the surgery

and headlights are from a 1938 Pontiac, the truck bed sides are from a 1951 Ford, the tail lights are from a 1950 Pontiac and he believes it was built on a custom frame. The most unique touch here, though, is the chopped top. Chopped tops aren’t considered wild and crazy (at least, not to us here at Region Rides). A few years back, Bob met Denny Summers

began. Instead of cutting the roof through the windshield like most people do, they chopped the truck’s

at a car show in Cedar Lake and they talked about

roof at the bottom of the window. The result is correct size glass in a chopped top package – the best of both worlds!

The inside is just as bitchin’ as the outside, too. The entire interior is airbrushed to look like WWII-era riveted airplane aluminum, and the roof and behind

RegionRides.com | Like us on Facebook

the seats is all covered with license plates. He’s got one from all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and even Guam.

That’s some serious dedication. The Turbo 350 transmission is controlled by a Hurst Quarter Stick shifter, and the other lever on the floor is actually for his turn signals. Bob found it at a swap meet, thought it was cool, and made it work, because his steering column is just a solid rod. Oh, and the seats? They swivel another Lake Rats design. He and his friend Denny, “The Iron Chef” as Bob calls him, came up with their own mechanism to make that work for an even more unique touch to the interior.

Even though the 327 breathes through some loud Laker headers, there’s still an AM/FM/CD player hidden in the glovebox on the inside, and speakers

in the kick panels. It’s got good looks (and pinstriping by Jody Clark, by the way), an automatic transmission, AND a radio? Hell, that’s a daily driver worthy machine to us! This is no rat!

When Bob isn’t out enjoying the ’39 pickup, he’s also got a 1928 Ford Model A 2-door sedan to divert his time, which he’s currently building. He’d also like to find himself a 1950 Dodge Wayfarer business coupe to build, but aside from that? He’s happy. Since building the car, he’s won over 15 awards at various shows and events, and he can also be found out cruising with his fellow Headhunters car club members (lots of them, mind you) at local shows. Sounds like the life to us! - RR

Who: Bob “Rainbow Lungs” Warzyniak Where: Crown Point, IN What: 1939 Chevrolet Pickup Hot Rod/Too-Nice Rat Rod Engine: 327 Chevy from a ’69 Camaro Trans: Turbo 350 Rear end: GM 10 bolt from ’69 Camaro Brakes: Front disc/rear drums Wheels & Tires: 15” Chrome Steelies with Coker Bias-Ply 3” Whitewall tires Interior: License plate headliner and rear wall, high back bar stool bucket seats with swivels

Calvin “Thumper” Hamilton | Knox, IN | 2002 Harley-Davidson Softail Deuce Words: Ray Saez Jr | Images: Jerome Hindmon

| If you’re a long-time reader of Region Rides, you probably recognize Calvin “Thumper” Hamilton. He was featured in a previous issue with another one of his awesome bikes, and he’s back again. Since it’s May, and Memorial Day is this month, we thought we’d find a cool military themed vehicle for the cover, and we knew just the guy to go to!

Chatting with Thumper was just like talking to an old friend, but one who had gone through even more hell than before. He’s a third-generation military serviceman (US Army artillery), but he ran into some pretty serious health problems since we’ve last seen him. But, as you probably guessed, even a heart attack can’t keep him away from his passion – and that’s his motorcycles.

This bike is awesome. Not just for its killer military-inspired paint job and customization, but because it truly embodies the kind of person Thumper is. As he says, “If I can’t ride it, I don’t want it.” He purchased this 2002 Harley-Davidson Softail Deluxe when it was brand new back in 2002, and since then he’s put 90,000 miles on it all across the USA. No, that’s not a typo. Ninety thousand miles have been ridden on this bike, and he’s enjoyed every one of them!

Even though he bought the Harley right off the showroom floor, that didn’t stop the Region Rider in him from coming out. The first thing that happened to this bike was the custom paint scheme you see now. The paint work was inspired by the A10 “Warthog” fighter jets that were flying over Iraq during his time in the service – and all of the details are spot on, all the way down to the “NOT A STEP” text on the front fender. It’s the perfect mix of military tribute, unique work, and personal connection that makes this bike a hit. It’s not over the top, but it’s enough to make you stop and smile.

It’s provided 90,000 miles of smiles and memories for Thumper. He’s taken it to Washington DC, ridden the Tail of the Dragon with it, gone to Biketoberfest, Daytona Bike Week, and more. These days, he rides with his local chapter of the US Military Veteran’s motorcycle club. He uses the bike on Patriot Guard rides, too, to give back.

When he’s NOT riding, he’s working as a production supervisor, and he’s got three children and a granddaughter to keep him busy. “I’ll have to put a sidecar next to that shark soon at this rate,” he jokes. He would, too. That’s just the kind of guy Thumper is. - RR

Who: Calvin “Thumper” Hamilton Where: Knox, IN What: 2002 Harley-Davidson Softail Deuce Engine: Bored 96 cubic inch twin-cam V-twin Engine Mods: Big bore kit, drag cams, diamond cut cylinder heads, S&S gear drive Transmission: 5-speed – no reverse Wheels: Stainless 60 spoke front and solid chrome rear Paint: A10 Warthog inspired shark nose with airbrushed rivets scheme Other: Barbed wire mirrors custom made, custom modified 6-shooter grips, .45 pistol foot pegs, barbed wire shift linkage, spinning minigun mufflers and more

454 plus Gene Dunivant | Valpariso, IN | 1970 Chevrolet Malibu Words: Ray Saez Jr | Images: Jerome Hindmon

Region Rides Magazine | Page 16 | May 2015

| Like all of the people we talk to, Gene Dunivant is a cool character with an interesting story and a passion for his vehicle.

His passion and attachment to his 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu runs deeper than most, and that’s how we like it here at Region Rides.

Gene has owned his 1970 Chevelle for 19 years now. It’s not his first cool car, though. Previously, he had a Cadillac that he brought around on the show circuit, and in fact – that’s how he found the car as well. He was showing his Caddy in Crown Point when he saw the car. It wasn’t perfect, and it wasn’t even in the show, but it was for sale, and Gene saw the potential.

Since he already had “the bug” at that point, Gene knew he had to have the car, and a deal was made. It needed plenty of work when he picked it up, but when has a little work ever stopped a dedicated car guy? Especially one who already had RegionRides.com | Like us on Facebook

a 454 block ready and waiting to replace the formerly economical 307….

Gene has been a car guy his whole life. He’s not quite sure what originally sparked his interest, but like most of us, he remembers the anticipation of getting his license as a teenager. He’s so dedicated, he made his living in the car business as a worker at a Ford assembly plant in Chicago. After 30 years of working, he retired in 1995, last working on building brand new Ford Thunderbirds and Mercury Cougars – so he’s no stranger to the internals of a vehicle. The Chevelle couldn’t have fallen into a better set of hands if it tried.

These days, the Chevelle lives its life in the fast lane. How fast? How does 565 horsepower sound to you? It’s got a built 454 block that’s been bored out to be 462 cubic inches. The stout Turbo 400 automatic transmission has been built with a shift kit and a 3500 RPM stall converter to handle the power and launch the big A-body off the line with gusto.

Stopping is achieved with four-wheel SSBC power disc brakes, and the 3.90 gears in the 12 bolt rear end make it a rocket off the line.

Gene’s car is good for a low-to-mid 11 second quarter mile time. He’s put plenty of time and money into making sure this is a quality build that he can enjoy for at least another 19 years, and it shows.

Everything is on point, from the paint work, done by his good friend Arnie Andrews of P&D Auto, and the engine work (and much more) from his other friend, Fred Culp. He specifically requested that we reference Arnie and Fred’s contributions, because without them, this car wouldn’t be the fun machine that it is today, and others we’re sure.

Built right here in NWI, Gene’s A-body is a full-on show car with over 400 – yes, four HUNDRED – awards to its credit. He’s got a trophy room that any car guy could envy, yet he’s still just as happy to chat about his car, his job, or anything else like a regular guy. That’s why he’s a perfect fit for us here at Region Rides. He also spends time with his fellow car club members from R-Rides Northern Indiana Cruisers.

When not enjoying time out at the car shows with the Chevelle, he’s at home with his wife of 28 years, Sharon. She’s okay with the car, he says, but Gene says she was much more into the lifted trucks he had previously. That’s okay with us, too! - RR

Who: Gene Dunivant Where: Valpariso, Indiana What: 1970 Chevrolet Malibu Engine: 454 cubic inch big block bored to 462 cid Transmission: Turbo 400 with shift kit and 3500 RPM stall converter Rear end: 3.90 gears in a 12 bolt posi Brakes: 4-wheel discs Wheels & Tires: 15� American Racing Torq Thrust wheels with wide 275/60 rear tires Interior: Original interior pattern, replaced red vinyl, redone about 3 years ago, new carpet and seat belts.

Words: Ray Saez Jr | Images provided by Barnyard Baggers

| Brad Konar and his team are one of the newer custom cycle shops on the block, but don’t let that fool you. These guys are serious about what they do, and build some of the best bikes not only in the NWI region, but the whole country.

They started Barnyard Baggers, as we know it today, in 2013, but they’ve been building bikes since 1999. Baggers, bobbers, choppers… anything that’s cool and has two wheels is welcome at Barnyard Baggers. They’re a tight-knit shop with a staff of just three, but looking at the quality of their work, you’d think they had 50 guys working around-the-clock to produce the quality they do.

The owner, Konar, is a motorcycle guy through-andthrough. He’s the kind of guy you WANT to get his hands on your pride and joy. Why? Because he cares about it just as much as you do. “I had a motorcycle

before I had a car. For two years I rode that motorcycle with snow chains on the tires in the winter,” he recalls of his early days. He started out just riding and enjoying his own bike, and began to customize it.

Up until two years ago, though, the motorcycle thing was just a hobby. Brad used to own a masonry company for both the new housing market and repair and restoration. That was fine, and business was good, but it wasn’t his passion. Like any good entrepreneur, he seized an opportunity to sell his old business and invest in Barnyard Baggers, and here we are today.

So, what does Barnyard Baggers DO, you ask?

“What do you WANT us to do?” is the standard reply. These guys do their own metal fab, paint work, fiberglass work, stereo and motorcycle electronics, parts, engine builds and even will give you a dyno printout of your bike when it leaves the shop. You

want to know what your bike can REALLY do? These are the guys you want to see.

“We build RIDER QUALITY bikes. You can go to a show, get on it, do a fat-ass burnout, and then ride it home. Or, hell, take it for a trip halfway across the country for all I care. We do all of that,” he says.

So far, they’ve had their hands on 23 bikes in 2015 – and the year’s not even halfway over.

They’re also in the middle of a pretty spectacular build, but Brad was pretty tight-lipped on it. That’s okay. We’re sure you’ll see it out on the show circuit.

Brad’s a biker through and through. He puts 20,000 miles per year – or more – on his own bikes, all while spending his working hours and spare time working on yours. If you want a bike that you can ride and enjoy, who better to trust than the guy who rides and enjoys his bikes as often as physically possible?

Make no mistake, though. Brand and his crew didn’t make it to where they were on their own. There’s

a whole laundry list of people they’d like to thank, especially those who stood by and believed in them, and each customer who has given them business.

“We treat you the same whether you spend $50 with us or $50,000 with us.”

Their new location, coming soon, will be located at 406 E. Commercial Avenue in Lowell, Indiana. Go pay them a visit if you’re in the market for a totally badass motorcycle. - RR

20th Annual Schepel Charity Car Sho Words: Stephanie Vega Edwards | Images provided by Schepel Buick GMC

| For 20 years, the people over at Schepel

The Schepel Car Show will take place on Sat-

Buick/GMC/Cadillac in Merrillville, Ind. have

urday, June 27 at the dealership, located at

been putting on a charitable car show. The

3209 W. Lincoln Highway in Merrillville. Reg-

event, which brings thousands of people from

istration is from 7:30am to 10:00am and all

around the region, benefits the Elim Christian

makes and models are welcome. “We have

Services, a school for handicap children in

28 classes for this show so all cars, trucks and

Palo Heights, Il.

motorcycles are encourage to participate,”

“Our General Manager Tom VanProoyen has

he said. “We will give out 100 dash plaques

devotedly supported and invested in Elim for

to the first 100 entries. We will give out over

decades, it’s near and dear to him,” said

80 awards, 3 in every class. We also give

John Mucha, Event Organizer. “Tom views the

awards for Best Paint, Best Engine, and Best

event as an opportunity to gain support in Indi-

Interior – those trophies are bigger.”

ana for Elim, allowing clients of Elim to come

And the BIGGEST award of all is the Deal-

out and spend time looking at the cars, trucks,

ers Choice, known now as the Larry Jablonski

and motorcycles and interacting with the other

award. The 6-foot-tall trophy is given to per-

people at the show. This is all about raising

son who has the vehicle all the employees vote

money for a great cause and having a venue

on as their favorite. “Larry was a mechanic

to interact with each other.”

that worked here for years and loved the car

cadillac • B Region Rides Magazine | Page 2 | May 2015

ow to Benefit Elim Christian Services show,” explained Mucha. “He passed from cancer and we wanted to honor his love of the show by naming the dealers choice award after him.”

Last year, the Schepel Car Show had 250 participants and Mucha expects this year will be similar, if not greater! Throughout the event, thousands come out to check out the variety of vehicles taking part in the show – and they come in droves! “We have thousands that come out for the event,” said Mucha. “People come from all over and many come back year

raised close to $20,000 last year and hope to

after year.”

do the same this year.”

The car show offers a little something for ev-

Pre–registration for this event is $20 for the

eryone in the family. They will give out free hot

month of May and $25 after June 1st. All pro-

dogs, chips, pop and ice cream and the event

ceeds benefit Elim Christian Services. To find

will feature music all day long, and a balloon

out more from Schepel Buick/Cadillac/GMC

artist from Elim who will make great things for

inquire online at schepel.com or call John Mu-

the kids. “This event will go on rain or shine

cha at 219.769.6381. - RR

– it’s all for the kids,” exclaimed Mucha. “We

Buick • GMC RegionRides.com | Like us on Facebook

Three’s a Charm at Calumet Harley Davidson Words: Melissa Garcia | Images: Jerome Hindmon

| There’s a lot going on at the Calumet Harley Davidson in Munster, Ind., over the next 30 days with three big events leading the way: Spring Has Sprung Open House May 8th thru 10th | 8am to 4pm Come on out from 10am to 4pm on May 8, 9 and 10 (Friday – Sunday) to the store at 10350 Calumet Avenue in Muster, to celebrate Calumet

MIRACLE RIDE for Riley Kids

Harley Davidson’s grand re-opening and check out

May 30 | 8am to 12pm

their new showroom and expanded area for riding

Calumet Harley Davidson will host the Miracle Ride

classes.

to benefit the children at Riley Children’s Hospital.

Throughout the event, there will be chances to win

The store will open early for registration. The run

a brand new Harley Davidson fire pit. Every over-

will start at Calumet Harley-Davidson and include

the-counter purchase totaling $100 or more before

the following stops:

tax earns the buyer one raffle ticket. This excludes

• Schepel Cadillac, Merrillville, IN

bike sales and receipts can’t be combined. Check

• Maxim PowerSports, Merrillville, IN

it out for a chance to win!

• Kersting’s Harley-Davidson North Judson, IN • Indian Motorcycles of Lafayette, IN • Hunters Moon Harley-Davidson, Lafayette, IN • Miracle Ride Big Tent 1501 N. Main St, Speedway, IN

Region Rides Magazine | Page 24 | May 2015

Ride for disAbilities 2015

Tickets are $25.00 for a single rider, $35.00 for

June 6, 2015 | 10am to 4pm

a double rider, $10.00 for non-riders who want a

Calumet Harley-Davidson and the Down Syndrome

wristband and $5.00 for kids under 10 years old.

Association of Northwest Indiana will hold its Ride

There are two ways to register online:

for disAbilities fundraiser to support a new building

• Online registration Facebook:

being renovated in Highland, Ind., to serve those in

dsanwi.wufoo.com/forms/m11r5w6a1w2e40t/

Northwest Indiana with disabilities.

• Online registration at DSA of NWI

Check in starts at 9am and the ride gets underway

dsaofnwi.org/upcoming-events/event-calendar/

at 10am Riders will receive a map and list of loca-

event/185

tions at sign-up. Each stop will include specials and giveaways.

Each registered rider will receive an event rider’s pin and wristband with the wristbands being good for a burger or hot dog, one drink and one side item. The party starts at noon with grilling, games, a jump house for kids, a silent auction, a 50/50 raffle and more! The band Fabulous Hasbeens will play from 1-3 p.m.

Anyone with questions about any of these or other events can contact Anna at Calumet Harley Davidson at 219.934.6366. More information is available at calumetharley.com. - RR

RegionRides.com | Like us on Facebook

Valparaiso American Legion Post 94 Set to Host Words: Melissa Garcia

| The only cars you’ll see on Lincolnway in Valparaiso, Ind., on June 20th this year will be soap box derby cars, driven by kids and young adults, ages 7-20. Lincolnway will be closed off for 12 hours starting at 6 a.m. from Garfield to Michigan Street, including all of the side streets from Indiana to Jefferson.

Now in its 69th year, the Annual Northwest Indiana Soap Box Derby, hosted by the Valparaiso American Legion Charles Pratt Post 94, will be held on Saturday June 20, 2015, from 8 a.m. – 3p.m. A total of 50 cars will race for the 400 or so spectators who show up to cheer the kids on as they race down Lincolnway, starting at Greenwich, about 1,700 feet at speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. Following the race, everyone heads over to the American Legion to enjoy hot dogs and ice cream while the trophies for the day are awarded.

“This is a great event for the family to participate in because the family gets to spend time together assembling the car and participating in a very fun day,” said Mike Bottom, race director and president of the Northwest Indiana Soap Box Derby Corporation, the non-profit corporation set up

under the post to run the derby annually. “Plus it teaches the kids sportsmanship and gets them involved in a hands-on sport that doesn’t involve all of the technology they deal with every day,” he added.

When asked how he became involved, Bottom explained that “One of my friend’s kids was racing and got me involved back in 1989 and I have been participating with my girls ever since.” He added that both of his daughters – Angela and Michaelene – have been involved for years and “really enjoy the event every year.” Angela raced for years and now works for the company, Barry’s Photography, that donates professional photos of the event every year. Michaelene, who is 15, participates every year in the Super Kids category.

There are four categories that kids can enter: Stock, Super Stock, Super Kids and Masters. The first three categories are open to kids ages 7-17, while the Maters category extends to age 20 and is a laydown car race. The Super Kids category is the category for handicapped and special needs children. All who have entered can participate in free practice sessions to be held at the post at 4

Region Rides Magazine | Page 26 | May 2015

69th Annual Northwest Indiana Soap Box Derby

Monroe Street in Valparaiso on May 2 and May 16 from 9-11 a.m.

“The soap box cars cost about $150 but most kids get companies around town to sponsor them,” Bottom explained. “This way the cost of the soap box car and the $30 entry fee get covered by the company in exchange for having the company logo painted on the car.” Families can obtain a corporate sponsor or go online to the All American Soap Box Derby site at aasbd.com to purchase a soap box car. Volunteers at the American Legion Post 94 will help put the cars together if needed although

Bottom advises that they are very simple to put together.” Winners of this race will go on to Akron, Ohio for the international, single elimination race in July.

There are currently openings for all categories.

Those interested can contact Mike Bottom at (219) 464.0445. In addition to the $150 fee for the soapbox, there is a $30 registration fee that covers the cost of the T-shirt and trophy (all who enter receive a trophy) and each child’s birth certificate is needed to sign up. Those interested can also mail the registration and fee to The American Legion Post 94, Box 268, Valparaiso, Ind., 46384 or drop it off at the post located at 4 Monroe Street, Valparaiso. More information on the Soap Box Derby event can be found on Facebook at facebook.com/NWINSoapBoxDerby.

The Valparaiso American Legion Post 94 is a non-profit organization, located at 4 Monroe Street in Valparaiso, Ind., that welcomes all veterans from all branches of the Armed Forces, as well as all military personnel serving the country. More information can be found at www.post94.org. RR

RegionRides.com | Like us on Facebook

DeMotte Cruise-In to Benefit Veterans Council Words: Melissa Garcia

| On Monday, May 11, 2015, from 4-8 p.m., the Jasper County Veterans Council will co-host a Cruise-in with Fieldhouse Ford at their dealership at 1400 South Halleck Street in Demotte, IN. The inaugural event is free and open to all cars and motorcycles – new and vintage – but will focus on vintage vehicles. The first 50 who register will receive dash plaques.

“This is the brainchild of Alan Kunzman, a Vietnam veteran of the Navy and a salesman at Fieldhouse Ford, who comes into the Jasper County VA office,” said Pat Donnelly, the Jasper County veterans services officer.

“We serve more than 2,700 veterans in this county and we were looking for ways to raise funds when Alan suggested this event,” he added. Donnelly said the funds go to vets who need help with money for things like utilities and rent when times get tough.

The evening will include a DJ and live music provided

by Retro Tunes. There will be no judging but there will be door prizes for those who enter their vehicles. Hot dogs, chips and soft drinks will be available for purchase with the proceeds going to the Veterans Council.

A special raffle will be held for the Veterans Council

during the evening that involves betting on how long an old car on the lot will run before seizing up the engine.

“We’re going to fire up an old car on the lot and sell blocks of time that people will purchase as part of the raffle to bet on when the engine will run out of oil and the engine will seize up,” Kunzman explained.

“If things go well with this first event, we will look at holding anther event like it in August of this year,” Donnelly said. For more information or questions about the event, call Alan Kunzman at 219.987.2500.

The Department of Veterans Services provides information and services to veterans and their dependents. Services include death and disability pensions, disability compensation, VA guaranteed loans, education benefits, burial assistance, and service-disabled veterans Insurance. More information is available at www.jaspercountyin.gov or by calling Donnelly at 219.866.4901.

Fieldhouse Ford is located in DeMotte, Ind., and serves the Lowell, Valparaiso, Rensselaer, and Crown Point Indiana communities. More information is available at fieldhouseford.com or by calling 888.204.5137. - RR

Region Rides Magazine | Page 28 | May 2015

Sunday, May 17 | 9am to 2pm Porter County Fairgrounds | Valparaiso, Indiana

Words: Stephanie Vega Edwards

| For 30 years, Mario Alvarez has been putting on car shows throughout the region – about 80 shows to be exact. In fact, when the Porter County Fairgrounds was built in 1985, he contacted them about putting on a car show there. “I thought if I could get a show that was big enough, I could bring people out to the Fairgrounds,” said Alvarez. “And sure enough we got a lot of interest and were able to have a big show – it was great!”

And the rest, as they say, is history. Now, three decades after his first show, Alvarez is putting on another big one at the Porter County Fairgrounds and it’s being sponsored by non-other than Region Rides! The Valpo Car Show & Swap Meet is scheduled for May 17th from 9am to 2pm and is expecting to bring out car enthusiasts from around the region. “When we did this show last May we had over 200 cars participate,” said Alvarez. “We expect a similar size if not more at this years’ outing.”

This car show truly is an outing as it’s also a swap meet.

Those wanting to participates as vendors can do so for only $10 when you preregister, $15 at the door. “We open our doors to vendors at 6am,” said Alvarez. “And we don’t just limit it to parts. We invite all types of vendors to come out to this great show. We will also have a sale

Proudly Sponsored by

corral where people can put their car up for sale. That’s free with $5 admission.”

And those wanting to show their car can do so for free (with $5 admission) and all types are welcome! “We have 50 awards we will give out – no class or category needed,” exclaimed Alvarez! “Any make and model can enter – now we even let in new Mustangs and Corvettes.

It’s still all about the collectible classics, but we want everyone who has a love for their vehicle to be able to enter the show. And the best part is that nobody preregisters – you just show up.”

The event starts at 9am but those entering the show can bring their car as early as 8am.The top prizes for this event include Overall Best in Show, Best Paint, and Best Engine. This show will also have about four or five food vendors, drinks, and a DJ. “We will have everything from hot dogs and hamburgers to sandwiches,” said Alvarez.

“We will also have Leroy’s Hot Stuff there.”

Alvarez is excited for this event and is already making plans for the next car show, which is scheduled for August 16. For more info on this car show, feel free to contact Alvarez at 219-241-9436. - RR

Stop by the Region Rides Magazine booth to say hello, pick up magazines, buy a cool t-shirts and meet some of the South Shore Roller Girls!

Your Ad Here!

Ads starting at

$90mo

Advertising & Submissions

Region Rides LLC | PO Box 283 | Valparaiso IN 46383 708.821.6941 | Sales@RegionRides.com

Scooter Shooterz and Buddy & Pals to Host Bike & Car Cruise-in Nights Words: Melissa Garcia

| Two local region favorites – Cedar Lake hot rod/

Scooter Shooterz services and builds custom bikes.

bike shop Scooter Shooterz and the Crown Point

From simple oil changes to extreme engine over-

sports bar Buddy & Pal’s – have joined forces to host

hauls, the full service shop builds custom choppers

Bike & Car Cruise-in Nights every Thursday beginning

and can also turn ordinary stock bikes into hot rod

May 7 and running throughout the summer months.

motorcycles. The shop is open 9 am to 6pm Monday

There is no fee to attend the events, which will be held

through Friday and 10 am to 3pm. More information

at Buddy & Pal’s Crown Point location at 1206 East

can be found at scoootershooterz.com or by calling

Summit Street. The event begins at 6pm immediately

219.374.0005.

following the Cruise the Square events that are also

Buddy & Pal’s Crown Point is located at 1206 E.

held every Thursday throughout the summer.

Summit St. and is open Monday through Saturday

“We are in no way trying to compete with the cruise-

from 11am to 2 am and Sundays from 11 am until

in around the Square,” said Warren Vesely, owner of

closing. The sports bar, which also has a Schererville

Scooter Shooterz. “We just want to provide everyone

location, offers live music, a dance club and food by

with a great place to hang out and continue the par-

Langel’s Pizza (dine in, carry out and delivery). More

ty,” he explained.

information can be found at buddyandpals.com or by

All cars and bikes are welcome. Door prizes will be

calling 219.662.0088. - RR

given out throughout the evening.

Region Car & Bike Shows May 2015

4th Annual Cinco DeMopar | Sat May 2nd 9 Irish Brothers East - Authentic Irish Pub | Lafayette, IN 11am to 5pm EDT | Car participation is limited to Mopar vehicles Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, Fiat, Ram, SRT, Plymouth, AMC, Desoto, etc.

50/50 Raffle | Dash Plaques | Special Awards Proceeds to benefit the American Cancer Society and The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention For more info call Zach Smiley at 765.532.0172 or email: monstermoparzach@gmail.com

8th Annual Moose 2513 Car Show | Sat. May 9th Moose Lodge 2513 | Winamac, IN Registration 9am to 12pm EDT | Judging 1pm | Awards 3pm $15 Entry Fee | Top 25 Vehicles | Best of Show Dash Plaques to the First 50!

Moose Choice | Top 5 Motorcycles | Rain or Shine Food & Drinks | 50/50 Drawing | Much More!

Valpo Free Car Show | Sun. May 17th Porter County Fairgrounds | Valparaiso, IN Registration at 8am | Awards at 3pm Free to Show your Car with $5 Paid Admission Best Paint | Best Engine | Best in Show Car Show | Swap Meet | 50 Awards | Door Prizes Food Vendors | Swap Meet | Much More!

Mario: 219.464.9918 or ValpoFreeCarShows.com

Free Cruise & Show at Home Depot | Sat May 23rd Homewood Home Depot | 17845 Halstead St

June 2015

1st Annual Warrior Roundup Poker Run Support the Indiana Veterans Home & Monon Food Fest Car Show | Sat June 6 Monon Park | 9am to 4pm | $10 Registration Drive Thru Judging | Live Music | Door Prizes | More!

Call Chris 219.863.7841 for more Info

Paws for the Cause | Sat June 6 Registration 9am to 10am | American Legion Post 502 $20 Single Rider | $25 Double Rider Unforgotten Souls MC | AVMRA 14 | CVMA 14-2

Regional Streeters Car, Truck & Bike Show | Sun June 7 Now at Illiana Speedway | Schererville, IN | 8am Registration 8am to 12noon | Awards Presented at 3pm $20 Early Registration | $25 After June 12th

Four A’s Car Club Car & Bike Show | Sun, June 7 Sunset Hills Farms | 755 Meridian Rd | Valparaiso, IN Gates Open at 9am | Registration at Noon | Awards at 3pm $10 Entry Fee | Spectators $5 per Car People’s Choice Top 40 | Free Swap Area | Food by Leroy’s Hot Stuff Proceeds to Benefit Porter County Habitat for Humanity & Porter County Career & Technical Education Dave: 219-861-6357 or Susan: 219-512-0630

Living Springs Church Car & Bike Show | Sat June 13th 19051 South Halstead St | Glenwood, IL

10am to 2pm | Music | Free Food per Driver Door Prizes | 50/50 Raffle | Much More Questions call 708.912.8712 or 708.341.2291 or 708.228.4743

10am to 3pm | $10 Entry Fee | Trophies | Food | DJ Fun Fair | 50/50 Raffle | Much More All Trophies Donated by Homewood Chevrolet Questions call 708.912.8712 or 708.341.2291 or 708.228.4743

Kentland Indiana Car Show | Sun May 24 in Support of Our Troops - Past & Present

Schepel Buick GMC Charity Car Show | Sat June 27 3209 W. Lincoln Hwy | Merrillville, IN

Cast Park | 1mi North of Route 24 on 41 10am to 12pm | Awards at 3pm | No Entry Fee Trucks & Bikes Welcome | Dash Plaques | Food Available Take a Ride on Huey Helicopter | Call 219.964.7550

Registration 8am to 10am | Show Begins at 10 | Awards at 2:30pm Proceeds to Benefit Elim Christian Services Dave: 219-769-6381

Car Show Fundraiser to Fight Cancer | Sat May 30

Christensen Chevrolet and the Crown Point Corvette Club | Sun July 12

Hartsfield Village | Munster, IN | 8:30am All Makes & Models Welcome | Reg. 8:30am | Awards 2pm $15 Pre Registration | $20 Day of Show Spectator Voting | 50/50 Drawing | Music | Food | Rain or Shine All proceeds will benefit the Cancer Resource Centre in Munster, IN

Have an event? Email us at Events@RegionRides.com

July 2015

Christensen Chevrolet | 9700 Indpls Blvd | Highland, IN Proceeds to benefit the Humane Society of the Calumet Region and Honor Flight Chicago | Reg 8am to 10am | Awards 2:30pm $20 Early Registration | $25 After June 12th First 75 to Register receive a t-shirt, dash plaque, goodie bag and guaranteed indoor show parking Call Bill Gnerlich - 219.765.1933 for more information

Region Rides Magazine | Page 36 | May 2015

Region Cruise Nights Monday Nights Blue Top | 8801 Indianapolis Blvd | Highland, IN | 5pm ‘til Close Zels | Rt 30 & Cline Ave | Merrillville, IN | 5pm Tuesday Night Blue Top | 8801 Indianapolis Blvd | Highland, IN | 5pm ‘til Close Southlake Auto Mall | Every 1st and 3rd Tues May thru Sept | 4pm to 8pm with Burnouts!

Hebron Cruise Nights | Every Tuesday | Pav’s & Patz’s Market Parking Lots Downtown Monticello | 5pm Around the Square Call Ken | 574.583.1101 Cheers | 1942 45th St | Munster, IN Starting May | 6pm to 9pm Michigan City Al’s Supermarket | 3535 Franklin St | Michigan City | 6:30pm to 9:30pm Glenwood Oaks Rib & Chop House | 106 N Main St | Glenwood, IL

Region Racing Schedule INR-SCCA 2015 Autox

Registration & Tech 9:30am to 11am | Driver’s Meeting 11am | First Car 12pm May 17th . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Majestic Star Casino . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9:30am June 6th. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Grisson Air Reserve Base. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9:30am June 7th. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Grisson Air Reserve Base. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9:30am

Illiana Speedway | 7211 U.S. 30 | Schererville, IN

Pits Open: 3pm | Stands Open: 4pm | Qualifying: 5:30pm | First Race: 7pm May 2015 May 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Full Race Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3pm May 9 . . . . . . . . . . . .Full Race Program - Mothers Day Special. . . . . . . . . . . . . 3pm May 16 . . . . . . . . . Full Race Program - 13th Annual Food Drive . . . . . . . . . . . 3pm May 23 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Full Race Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3pm May 25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Chicagoland Showdown 150 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3pm In conjunction with ARCA/CRA Super Series

May 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Full Race Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3pm

Blue Top | 8801 Indianapolis Blvd | Highland, IN | 5pm ‘til Close

June 2015 June 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Full Race Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3pm June 7. . . . . . 39th Annual Regional Streeters Rod & Custom Car Show. . . . . . . 3pm June 13. . . . .14th Annual Elmer Musgrave Memorial w/Ted Musgrave. . . . . . . 3pm June 20. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Full Race Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3pm June 21. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Crash Fest # 1 Figure 8 Races . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3pm

Whites Pit Stop | 330 E US Hwy 30 | Schererville | Every Wednesday Night | 4pm to 8pm

US 41 Motorplex | 2695 West 50 South | Morocco, IN

Blue 82 | Cruise Night 8209 Wicker Ave | St John, IN | Every Tuesday Night | 5pm Wednesday Night

Downtown Whiting | 3rd Wednesday of the Month Downtown Whiting119th Street | 5pm Quakersteak & Lube Bike Night | 6245 Ameriplex Dr | Portage | 5pm to 12am Suzy’s Diner | 407 S Main St | Hebron | 4pm to 8pm 10% Off Food for All Cruisers | DJ | Food | More Thursday Night Buddy & Pal’s Bike Night Sponsored by Scooter Shooterz | 6:30pm | Crown Point, IN Shenanigans Pub | Starting May | 2pm till Midnight | 6121 Melton Rd | Portage, IN Ryan’s Tavern | 6340 Melton Rd | Portage, IN | Every Thursday Night | 5:30 PM FREE FOOD! Crown Point Square | Every Thurs Night | 5pm to 8pm | May thru September Blue Top | 8801 Indianapolis Blvd | Highland, IN | 5pm ‘til Close Friday Night Blue Top | 8801 Indianapolis Blvd | Highland, IN | 5pm ‘til Close Simon Sez Cruise Night | 2250 W 81st Ave | Merrillville, IN | 7pm to Whenever!

Valpo Harley Davidson Cruise Night | 1151 US 30 | Live Entertainment | Beer Garden | Food Hammond Home Depot Cruise | 1624 E 165th St | Last Friday of Every Month Homewood Chevy | 1833 S Halstead St | Homewood, IL | Free BBQ Saturday Night Blue Top | 8801 Indianapolis Blvd | Highland, IN | 5pm ‘til Close Simon Sez Cruise Night | 2250 W 81st Ave | Merrillville, IN | 7pm to Whenever!

LaPorte’s Cruise In | Staples Parking Lot | Every Saturday Night | Hwy. 2 E. | 5pm to 9pm Downtown Lowell Mill Street Cruise | First Saturday of the Month Lansing Cruise Nights | 6pm to 9pm | 119 Street in Lansing | Call Norb 219.384.7147 Blue Top | 8801 Indianapolis Blvd, Highland, IN | 5pm ‘til Close Sunday Night Blue Top | 8801 Indianapolis Blvd | Highland, IN | 5pm ‘til Close Olympia Lanes | 157 W. Joe Orr Rd | Chicago Heights, IL | 5pm to 9pm

May 2015 May 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Slicks & Drag Radials Only . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10pm May 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Test & Tune(Track Rental Available). . . . . . . . . . . 10-10pm May 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bracket Race #1 Points/ TNT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-5pm May 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Test & Tune . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10pm May 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Test & Tune . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10pm May 8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Slicks & Drag Radials only . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10pm May 9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . Test & Tune(Track Rental Available). . . . . . . . . . . 10-10pm May 10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . “ALL OUT SHOOTOUT” #1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-6pm May 12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Test & Tune . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10pm May 13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Test & Tune . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10pm May 15 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Monster’s Night of Chaos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10pm May 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . .Test & Tune(Track Rental Available). . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-10p May 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bracket Race #2 Points/ TNT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-5pm May 19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Test & Tune . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10pm May 20 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Test & Tune . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10pm May 22 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Slicks & Drag radials only . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10pm May 23 . . . . . . . . . . . . . DONYA(Fade to Black)RENTAL#1 . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-10pm May 24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Test & Tune 9-2pm Drifting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10pm May 26 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Test & Tune . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10pm May 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Test & Tune . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10pm May 29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Slicks & Drag Radials only . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10pm May 30 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Street Car Chaos Reunion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-10pm May 31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Test & Tune 9-2pm Drifting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10pm June 2015 June 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Test & Tune . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10pm June 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Test & Tune . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10pm June 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Slicks & Drag Radials Only . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10pm June 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BIZ (GRUDGE INC) RENTAL #1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-10pm June 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bracket Race #3 Points/TNT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-5pm June 9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Test & Tune . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10pm June 10. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Test & Tune . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10pm June 12. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Slicks & Drag Radials Only . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10pm June 13. . . . . . . . . . . . Test & Tune (Track Rental Available) . . . . . . . . . . 10-10pm June 14. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . “ALL OUT SHOOTOUT” #2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-6pm June 16. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Test & Tune . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10pm June 17. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Test & Tune . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10 pm June 19. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Slicks & Drag Radials Only . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10pm June 20. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BIG SHAM TRACK RENTAL #1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-10pm June 21. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bracket Race #4 Points/TNT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-5pm June 23. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Test & Tune . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10pm June 24. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Test & Tune . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10pm June 26. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Slicks & Drag Radials Only . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10pm June 27. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BOOKIE TRACK RENTAL #1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-10pm June 28. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Test & Tune 9-2pm | Drifting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10pm June 30. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Test & Tune . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-10pm

Official Region Rides Gear!

10

$

High Quality Cotton | Limited Edition Produced Locally | Get’em Today! Starting at name phone email address city color Size S

state

black M

L

zip

pink XL

2XL +$2

qty

sub total

S&H

TOTAL

Please send cash, check or money order to

3XL

4XL

+$2

+$2

$3.00

Region Rides LLC | PO Box 283 | Valparaiso, IN 46384 Limited availability in some sizes. Allow 2 - 3 weeks for delivery.