Volume 2 Issue 2
May 2014
Brian Nelson’s
‘56 Ford “Grunge Rod” Region Renegade
Abraham Custom Paint Studio Hoosier’s Hottest Garage
Mickey’s Car Barn
EE R F $
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May 2014 This month’s cover, features Brian Nelson’s ‘56 Ford Grunge Rod, photographed by Jerome Hindmon. Content page image features Jamie Janeczko’s General Lee Replica, photographed by Jessica Halliar.
Our Team
Founder • Publisher Mark Halliar Publisher Rolando Martinez Senior Writer Ray Saez Jr. Contributing Writer Danny Vega Contributing Photographer Jerome Hindmon Contributing Photographer Jessica Halliar Publication & Ad Design Designs by Mark
Got a Cool Ride?
In This Issue Letter from the Editor Works of Art in Progress
The General
Jamie Janeczko’s General Lee Replica
5 7 8
Green with Envy
Travis Calvillo’s Lowrider F150 and Matching Victory Vegas 8-Ball
Finished Product
Brian Nelson’s ‘56 Ford Grunge Rod
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Hoosier’s Hottest Garage
Mickey’s Car Barn 22
Region Renegade
Abraham Custom Paint Studio
Car Club Feature Vintage Tin SRC
Car Shows:
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Valpo Free Car Show
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Regional Streeters 38th Annual Show and 108th Cobe Cup Cruise
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Show & Cruise Schedules
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Send pics to Rides@RegionRides.com
Visit RegionRides.com or our Facebook page to see extra content!
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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.
Sales@RegionRides.com or Call: 219.200.3877
LETTER
from THE
It’s finally May! You know what that means? The show and cruise night season is finally here! We don’t know about you guys... but we’re glad it’s finally starting to get warmer. And we say “warmer” because it’s currently only 50 degrees, which is a far cry from where we’d all like it to be! Once again we’d like to thank our loyal advertisers: (Alphabetical Order): Alternative Power Initiative Race for the Future, Calumet Harley Davidson, Cartronix, Christenson Chevrolet, Classy Chassis, Color Craft, Deviant Designs & Fabrication, High Performance Dentistry, Monster Performance Center, Pat’s Frame & Axle, Pick-Ups, Schepel Cadillac Buick GMC, Van Senus Auto Parts and Valparaiso Trailer. Again, without their enthusiasm for Region Rides, we wouldn’t be able to showcase the shops and rides of the Region. So be sure to stop in and patronize these fine businesses and tell’em Region Rides sent ya! We’d also like to take a moment to thank our staff of freelancers. Region Rides is a side-gig for everyone involved. Just like the rest of the Region, their talents and enthusiasm for their craft is unmatched. So thank you! As we said in the April issue, there are a ton of exciting events coming this season: Starting with the monthly Mill Street Cruise and Show in Lowell, Indiana on May 3rd. The Mill Street Cruise and Show will take place on the first Saturday of every month, ‘til September. The following weekend (May 10) if you guys are up for the drive, is the 7th Annual Moose Lodge 2513 Car and Bike Show in Winamac. Like we said... it’s a bit of a haul. Also taking place this month, is the Biker’s Against Child Abuse Benefit Ride on May 17th. The ride starts at Three Monkeys Pub in Crown Point with registration at 10am and kickstands up by noon. Upon your return there will be live entertainment, food, beer tent, silent auction and much more. We’re very excited to announce our sponsorship of the FREE Valpo Car show taking place at the Porter County Fairgrounds on May 18th. It’s free to show your car, truck or bike for only the price of your admission. Registration is at noon and judging takes place at 2 with awards to follow.
Smoke’em if you got’em!
We’re a “smoke-friendly” publication. Send your smoke to Rides@RegionRides.com!
EDITOR Then at the end of the month, we were invited to the Alternative Power Initiative, Race for the Future. Every year the API hosts an inventor’s race in downtown Whiting where inventors build race cars powered by alternative fuel and are challenged to complete a pre-selected road course. It’s a good time so come on out and cheer-on the inventors with us! See all the details for these events on page 36 and again, if you notice we’ve missed one that we should be promoting, shoot an email to Events@RegionRides.com We took a poll on our facebook page last month, to find out what you guys would like to see in Region Rides. The results were overwhelming and the number one request we had was for a tech section. We’d love to bring you a monthly tech & tips but let us know what you’d like to see; Mechanical? Paint & body? Electrical? Maintenance? Let us know and we’ll get working on it. We hope to see you all at some event this summer! Make sure you stop by, say hi and let us know what you think of Region Rides! We’re doing this for you and want to bring you what you want to see! Have a great month Region Riders and we’ll see ya around! Mark Halliar Mark@RegionRides.com
Works of Art in progress
The Man WHO: Ron Underwood Town: New Chicago Age: 70+
The Ride Year: 1978
Make: Chevy
Got a project you’re working on? Send us pics and a brief description to: Rides@RegionRides.com
Model: El Camino Paint: White Body: 2 Door Coupe Suspension: Heavy duty Engine: 350 sbc rebuilt to 383 stroker • Parts: Hardin’s Speed Service • Build: Rhyne’s Comp Trans: 700r4 Built by Fisher Transmission Interior: Stock Black Other: Cleaned frame to metal Materials: Hobart Napa, and Eastwood Products Painted frame and all suspension inside and out Year Purchased: 2007 Time spent restoring: last year and not finished Future plans: shave handles, remote lock and poppers, new interior new pans and patches, custom paint, 373 posi
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The Ge Written By: Ray Saez, Jr. The story of Jamie Janezco’s 1969 Dodge Charger is a little different than most cars we feature here, but it’s definitely cool. Mopar die-hards may cringe at the thought of taking a numbers matching car and repainting it or modifying it, but that’s part of what makes the car hobby fun: doing 8
what you want. You see, Jamie is a huge Dukes of Hazzard fan. He’s been collecting memorabilia from the TV series since he was a kid, and even remembers watching it whenever it was on (Channel two, for the record). So, like any car enthusiast with a passion for
TV, he decided one day that he was going to recreate his favorite car from his favorite show. He searched for quite some time, and almost bought a car that was owned by Ben Jones (who played Cooter on the Dukes of Hazzard), but that deal fell apart. Sometimes, that’s for the best, be-
Editor’s Note: Thank you to the fine folks at the Buckley Homestead in Lowell, for allowing us to shoot on location.
eneral Photos By: Jessica Halliar cause the car he DID find has a pretty great history all on its own. Jamie is the 3rd owner of this 1969 Dodge Charger. The original owner purchased it back in 1969, and appears to have removed the interior to undercoat the car inside and out. Jamie noted how clean it was when he
began to restore it. The story goes that the car sat in a garage from 1985 until 2009, when it was purchased by its second owner to be restored. That person only held onto the Charger for a few months before deciding to let it go to focus on other parts of his collection.
The car was originally blue with a black vinyl top, and Jamie said that when the top was removed, there was no rust on the roof – a Christmas miracle! He continued the restoration by replacing the quarter panels and front fenders on the car. This was a cinch for Jamie, because he’s been restor-
ing cars for over 20 years. He was introduced to the car hobby from his dad and his older brother, and as he puts it, “One thing led to another, and now it’s kind of out of control…. A little bit.” When restoring this car, the goal was to keep as much of it as original as possible. All of the chrome, save for the bumpers, is original to the car. As are the doors, the hood, and all of the interior other than the seats and carpet. The General Lee markings are decals, not paint, and it’s been a family project since he purchased the car on May 1, 2011. He sold a 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air hardtop to fund the restoration (secretly: it was to make room for the Charger). He says that he’s had more fun with this car than any of his others. His kids, 8-year-old son Jace and 11-year-old daughter Alexis are big fans, and even his wife, Amber, loves the General Lee. Even though there’s also a 1967 Camaro and a 1965 GTO in the garage, Jamie says, “Out of all the cars I’ve got, this is the only one she wants to drive in!” You’ll notice on the dashboard that he’s got the signatures of five of the seven surviving cast members from the Dukes of Hazzard. Jamie says that his goal this year is to get the last two, and he plans to take the car to Nashville this summer to do just that. He loves the attention the car garners. People pose with it and strike up conversation frequently, and he says that it’s much more unique than anything else he’s ever had – including the ’57. It may not be factory stock anymore, but as Jamie says, “I restore everything at home so I can enjoy it and drive it.” It’s a refreshing change of pace compared to the trailer queen mentality of many classic car owners – and that’s what we like here at Region Rides. - RR
Ride Specs Who: Jamie Janeczko What: 1969 Dodge Charger “General Lee” Where: Lowell, IN Engine: Original 383 cubic inch High-Performance V8 Transmission: Numbers matching 727 TorqueFlite Rear End: Original 3.23 Sure Grip Rear Interior: Mostly original; New carpets, front seats, and headliner Paint: Flame Red (No, the General Lee is not Hemi Orange!) Other: Factory A/C, vinyl top removed, 6-way manual driver’s seat
Green w
Written By: Ray Saez, Jr.
No, it’s not Saint Patrick’s Day, but yes – everything in this feature is green. Meet Travis Calvillo. No, he’s not Irish either, but he really loves the color green. First up is his 1997 Ford F150. Travis has owned this truck since it was brand new, and has only put 40,000 miles on it since then, but leaving it stock and unmodified just isn’t his style. Long long ago (or so it seems by now), Travis was out and about
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and spectating a car show just for lowriders, but then he noticed other brand new trucks just like his on the show field. So, he thought – what the heck? Let’s enter and have a good time. That decision gave way to the creation you see before you on these pages. First, he painted it. Remember, we said he really likes green. The truck was originally red, so to remedy that, he
sent it over to his good buddy Jorge Navarrete, who runs the shop at TF North High School in Calumet City, IL. Jorge has painted the truck more than once, including a two-tone finish,
with envy Photos By: Jerome Hindmon
but eventually they settled on this color – Green Go. They also added a bit of “show” to go with this new “go,” in the form of a 10-switch hydraulic suspension by DAMAGE, and a
customized leather interior. The interior has the names of Travis’s wife and children embroidered onto the seats. The pinstripes are special, too, and they were done by local artist Jody Clark. You might remember him from an earlier issue of Region rides… his work is top notch! Travis loves his
truck, and so does his 5-year-old son Austin. Austin says he can never sell it. Travis continues to drive and enjoy the truck
whenever he can. He’s driven it to shows all across the country (and even into Mexico), & has a trophy room from car shows that even some of the professionals can envy, with over 150 awards credited to the build. But, like all of us here at Region Rides, his passion doesn’t just stop at one vehicle. Travis has been a motorcycle enthusiast for most of his life as well. He bought his first bike when he was just 18. That started a lifelong obsession that culminates with his current bike: this 2012 Victory Vegas 8-Ball nicknamed “The Gambler.” Just like his truck, Travis had to have the bike green, so he went to our friends over at Curly’s Custom Cycles and picked out one of the baddest green hues available: Synergy Green
from the Chevrolet Camaro. While the bike was at Curly’s for paint, he also had some custom bags (originally intended for a Harley) installed, and the awesome airbrush work you see was done by Wayne Fuller. Then, to make EVERYONE green with envy, he went with a custom speedometer from Ion gauges that added green lights and an awesome custom background. There’s even green embroidery on the seat, and of course, green stitching. This complements the black finish on everything else quite well, and makes for one unique bike. So unique, in fact, that it won a runner-up trophy at this year’s World of Wheels. Travis isn’t the only gearhead in the family, though. His wife, Kelly, enjoys traveling with him to shows
Ride Specs Who: Travis Calvillo Where: Lowell, Indiana What: 2012 Victory Vegas 8 Ball “The Gambler” Engine/Trans: Stock 106” engine Paint: Chevrolet Camaro “Synergy Green” with custom pinstriping Wheels: Stock, but painted
and events, and all of their children have their own wheeled passions. His oldest daughter, Jaclyn, took her custom lowrider bicycle to shows and frequently won money and awards, and his 9 year old daughter Kylie is following in her footsteps and wants her own bike. His 5-year-old, Austin, as mentioned before, has an interest in Green Go the truck, and the family just welcomed their newest addition with Camden, a baby boy, who is sure to fit in with the rest soon enough. Custom cars, custom bikes, and family; it doesn’t get any better than that. Looks like Travis is going to need some more room on the seats of Green Go! - RR
Ride Specs Who: Travis Calvillo Where: Lowell, Indiana What: Customized 1997 Ford F150 “Green Go” Engine/Trans/Diff: Bone Stock – 6 cylinder truck purchased new with 40,000 original miles Interior: Done by Chapa’s in Hammond, IN fully custom with embroidered leather seats and more Paint/Exterior: “Green Go” exterior paint, fully shaved, rear roll pan, billet grille, pinstriping by Jody Clark Wheels: 20” Momo spinners Suspension: Hydraulics by DAMAGE with10 switches (and yes – it can hop!)
Finished Brian Nelson is my doppelganger. No kidding. I’ve been helping to tell the stories of you guys for a while now, and I’ve never instantly felt this level of camaraderie with another enthusiast. It’s a good thing. Just take a look at his badass truck. Brian bought the truck a few years ago. He found it on the popular classified site Racing Junk. Originally, his plan was to take this rustfree California truck and make it match his 2006 Ford F250, which is a super crew cab with charcoal gray paint. He was going for a “50 years of Ford evolution” theme. The truck was (and is) painted Hemi Orange, but the paint on it when he bought it, well, let’s just say it wasn’t the type of work that Mike Abraham would churn out (go read about him in this same issue!) by any stretch of the imagination. Thus, he decided to paint it. He began by scuffing the old Hemi Orange paint to prep for the new color… but then he liked what he saw. The patina was cool. It was different. It wasn’t quite “rat rod” but more “grunge rod,” as Brian calls it. When I asked what he meant by that, he said, “I see it as ‘grunge’ – it’s not true rat. I have comforts, I have wipers, I have windows, I have things like FLOORS…” He’s also got heat. Go drive a traditional rat rod with no windows in the dead of winter. We dare you. Sure, it’s cobbled together from different parts (a Ford truck with a Dodge drive-train, and a hood from a Ford fire engine that he SPE-
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Written By: Ray Saez, Jr.
“...it IS finished!”
Product Photos By: Jerome Hindmon
Brian’s California Car Duster - AKA Wire Brush
CIFICALLY PURCHASED A admires customs done up PARTS VEHICLE just to have, like Brian’s truck (and someamong other things), but this one who owns one, for that isn’t some rough and tumble matter), I can truly appreciate scrap heap. Brian says he what he has done. All the can drive this truck all over – chrome is new, the fire truck’s and he does. hood with its factory alumiIn fact, he’s something of a num scoop is a unique piece local point of interest thanks you won’t find on any other to the truck. He’s had people truck, but the rest of the truck stop him all over the place has its patina. Brian says with varithere is no “I see it as ‘grunge’ – it’s not true ous quesclear coat rat. I have comforts, I have wipers, tions, and on it. He even offers I have windows, I have things just keeps to buy the like FLOORS…” - Brian Wilson it clean truck. The and covquestion he gets the most, ers it with wax. He waxes his though, is “What color are rust, and that’s what makes you going to paint it?” So he it special. Whenever somedecided to have local legend one suggests he put a cheap Jody Clark (who we have feapaint job on the truck ti make tured – check out the website it “better,” he says, “But then to read past issues!) lay down it’s just a truck with a cheap some killer pinstriping. That paint job, and no one will didn’t do it, though. He still look twice at it.” gets the questions. His wife, Jennifer, and daughPersonally, as someone who ter, Josephine, love the truck
just as much as he does. In fact, when someone offered to buy the truck recently, Brian threw out a number – a crazy number – and the person was seriously considering it. His daughter was distraught almost to the point of tears, and that’s when he realized: the truck is so unique that it’s almost a part of his identity. Brian can often be found driving the truck around cruising with his fellow Head Hunters club members, or at a local show. Just remember: it IS finished. He is lucky to have a vehicle like this one. I have a feeling this truck will be in his family for many years to come – just how we like it here at Region Rides. - RR
Ride Specs Who: Brian Nelson Where: Crown Point, IN What: 1956 Ford F-100 Engine: Dodge 360 CID V8 Transmission: “Some sort of” Chrysler automatic (He’s not a Mopar guy – close enough!) Interior: Seat from 1993 Ford F150, black leather, orange piping, ABS plastic door panels dashboard pinstriping by Jody Clark Paint/Exterior: Patina’d Hemi Orange – no clear coat, rust free CA truck with pin stripes by Jody Clark Wheels: Cragar Deluxe steel wheels 15x8 front and 15x10 rear Diamondback Vintage wide whitewalls Suspension: Heated coils up front; leaf springs in the rear. Pontiac front end… he thinks.
Hoosier’s Hottest Garage:
Mickey’s Written By: Ray Saez, Jr.
One thing about writing for Region Rides that always amazes me is the sheer number of quality shops that you guys have in your area. I say “you guys,” because as some of you know, I 22
write based out of Florida. I often find myself wishing I were closer, able to connect with the awesome enthusiasts and shop owners I interact with, and when I was given the information on
Mickey’s Car Barn, I had never felt a bigger urge. I am a huge – and I mean huge – Corvette fan and enthusiast. Mickey’s Car Barn is THE place to go for Corvettes.
Car Barn Photos By: Jerome Hindmon
If you want award-winning attention to detail paid to your restoration, you want Tim Mickey. He’s been driving, fixing, and restoring Corvettes since 1973, and became a member of the
National Corvette Restorers Society in 1977. Further adding to his resume, he’s won the prestigious Duntov award (so-named for Zora Arkus-Duntov, the “Father of the Corvette”) for not one, not two, not even ten, but eighteen cars he and his shop have worked on. Needless to say, if you send your Corvette to Mickey’s Car Barn, it will be in the best hands in the world. Since he is an NCRS member, Tim
Mickey’s shop produces some of the finest restorations out there, and each of them are built to the rigorous standards of the NCRS. As they say on the website, “If there is a screw inside the radio that has not seen the light of day in 50 years, we are going to remove that screw and restore it before it goes back into the radio for the next 50 years.” That level of attention to detail and customer care is what sets them
apart from other shops. They don’t just do full restorations at Mickey’s Car Barn, though. Since they are Corvette specialists, there is really no job too small for them. They will replace parts, weather stripping, perform routine maintenance, and more. You, as the owner, can rest assured knowing your car was worked on by other enthusiasts who strive to take the same care that you would.
What REALLY separates Tim’s shop apart, though, is their service on socalled “basket cases.” Following in the “no job is too big or too small” theme, Mickey’s Car Barn can help you finish your restoration, or give you that one small push you need to get your project back on track. Send them a disassembled car that you’ve lost interest in, and they will finish it. Having trouble bolting in the suspension or putting the dash
pad back in place without squeaks and rattles? No problem. Mickey’s Car Barn will fix whatever it is you want, even if it’s only one item, and then send the car back to you to complete if that’s what you want. Check out their website, too. They have testimonials from customers that have gone on to win Top Flight awards, Duntov Awards, and more. Some customers even come BACK to have Mickey’s
Car Barn restore multiple Corvettes. How do you garner repeat business as a car restorer? Simple. Be the best. Go have a gander at their website and you will be inspired by all the services they offer. Or, better yet, if you’re close enough (unlike me), pay their shop a visit. It’s located at 1300 Erie Court in Crown Point, IN. - RR
Written By: Ray Saez, Jr. When you find that you have a talent, a desire, and truly love what it is that you do, they say you should make that thing into your career. Mike Abraham of Abraham Custom Paint Studio is the perfect example of this principle in action. Custom paint and body work is big business. Expensive business, too. The clients are some of the most me-
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ticulous you will ever see, obsessing over every detail and, often, watching over their prized cars, trucks, bikes, or boats, like hawks watching over their nest. As such, they often seek out the best work that is available to them. Shops will do everything they can to convince you, but some shops, their reputation and portfolio speaks for itself.
Photos By: Jerome Hindmon In college, Mike earned a degree in fine arts. It was something he knew he wanted to do. He was always drawing cars in school, building slot cars, assembling models, and as he puts it, “You just graduate to -Mike the real thing, eventually. It’s an addiction, but there’s worse things you can be addicted to.” In his case, it’s good to be addicted, because it’s allowed him to stay in business for 37 years (and counting). After he finished college, he painted a funny car body in his parents’ two car garage. He got his first taste of working with automotive materials in junior college, when he built a dune buggy. He never went to a trade school. He followed his passion – creativity – and landed where he enjoyed the work the most.
Sure, Mike Abraham has painted everything from guitars to vintage Ferraris, to Daytona Prototype race cars and John Force’s funny cars, and he’s been featured in over 30 different magazines, but Abraham that’s not why he does what he does. He’s not in it for the fame or notoriety, and he urges the same of his clients. Mike sees vehicles in a different way than most of us: as blank canvases, waiting to be turned into something greater. He says, “When you exceed the customer’s
“You just graduate to the real thing, eventually. It’s an addiction....”
That’s what you get with Abraham Custom Paint Studios. You get topnotch work that’s good enough for everyone and anything. Mike says, “One weekend I’m doing a Ferrari event, the next weekend a motorcycle event, and then it could be Indy Cars.” You see, Mike has a long history of doing paint and body work for both high profile clients and regular guys like us who just want to go that extra mile to make their car, truck, or bike special.
Mike Abraham painted a pair of John Force Funny Cars in 1995. In return, John went on to win the NHRA Championship.
expectations AND their imagination, that’s the kind of job that makes the magazines.” Anyone can have an imagination and an idea, but it takes a very special type of person to be able to take those ideas, put them to paper (or to steel and fiberglass, in this case), and fully realize their potential. That’s why it’s not just a body shop – it’s a paint studio. Mike creates true pieces of artwork, but as a person, he could not possibly be any more humble. That’s what makes Abraham Custom Paint Studio unique. A humble and candid owner who can confidently explain why
he does things the way he does, with real-world experience on the tightest of deadlines who works with all of his materials with his own two hands. Mike is a rarity who does a great deal of high profile work, but don’t let his skills fool you, he maintains that all of his work is HARD work. As he puts it: If it’s cheap, quick, and easy? It isn’t special. The vehicles and stories that come out of Abraham Custom Paint Studio are special. Very special. Give him a call at (219) 462-
3306, or see his shop in Valparaiso to get your own vision realized. - RR
AbrahamCustomPaintRaceCars.com Valparaiso, IN • 219.462.3306
SRC
Est. 1970
Written By: Danny Vega It all started in a home garage in Thornton, Illinois. The year was 1970, and Bill Rinaldi, along with 12 others got together to discuss the one thing they all loved – CARS!! “October 20, 1970 – I remember like it was yesterday,” recalled Bill Rinaldi. “We even ran an ad in the South Holland shopper and I think we picked up 2 or 3 guys from the ad.” That first meeting of car enthusiasts was to decide what the guys wanted to capture and accomplish as a car club. After all, most had been to the first National Street Ride Association (NSRA) event in Peoria two months prior and were thoroughly were impressed. “The NSRA was defined as a group of guys building cars – and that’s what we were,” explained Ri-
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naldi. “So we modeled ourselves after that association” They decided to call themselves the Vintage Tin Street Rod Club, and one month after the first meeting the group was up to 16 guys. They decided they’d meet the third Sunday of every month. “Organized street rodding was pretty new in this part of the country at that time, so we decided to meet once a month. It turned out to be a family event as well, with wives and even kids coming out on Sundays, although the meeting part was just the guys.” In keeping with the guidelines set by the largest street rod/hot rod association in the country, the guys decided that all vehicles had to be a 1948 or older, and they could be modified for speed, safety and appearance. In 1985, the club modified its rules to let in cars that were made up to 1976 – but still modified for speed, safety and
appearance. “Back in those days it was great – we’d go out cruising as a group,” explained Rinaldi. “It looked so neat driving together, 10-12 cars. We would do a buddy system of four or five cars. When one group would stop or a car break down we would talk over the CB to one another deciding what to do. We sure had some great memories.” The guys would drive together to different shows, and hot rod events, some local. some in other states. In recent years the NSRA has their Street Rod Nationals the first weekend in August, The Vintage Tin SRC would always go with as many members as possi-
ble, and over the years several even took home some prestigious awards. “In the past 45 years, there have been at least 20 cars that have won national awards,” explained. “The club is consistent of guys who love cars and love building cars so it’s no surprise our guys were awarded for their great work.” Currently the Vintage Tin SRC has 52 members, about 40 are active. There are three members that live out of state, and come to visit whenever they are in the area. There is quite a diversity in ages and occupations, and in recent years a few retirees. Two of the original 13 are still active. “It’s no surprise that the club has a few older guys – we all have gotten older since this first started,” Rinaldi said with a laugh. Now the club meets four times a year – each meeting lasts about two hours. The meetings consist of catching up with the guys and doing a small amount of business, after all, the club has three main events. “We always have a banquet, either in the fall or spring, and it’s a nice event. It gives us a chance to bring out the wives and get dressed up,” explained Rinaldi. “Then there’s a club catered picnic that we usually have in August, and of course our Christmas Party for the Kids. Every December we have Santa
come out and give present to the kids. It’s open to the club and invited friends. We usually have anywhere from 60-80 people, including kids. We’ve been doing that since 1971.” And when they aren’t planning for one of those three events, they are meeting for cruise nights. “May is the beginning of the cruise nights,” said Rinaldi. “We really look forward to this because we are all so spread out. We live as far south as Lowell, as far east at Hebron, as far west as Manhattan Illinois, and as far north as South Holland.” This group of car enthusiasts have been hanging around each other for 45 years, and have been had their share of good times and bad. They’ve suffered the passing away of a few car club members, and family members and have rallied together in their time of need. “In March of 2013, Ray Pohlman, one of our original club mem-
bers suffered a massive stroke. Ray has a 64 Barracuda that he had been working on for a few years” said Rinaldi. “Two months later, one of the club members asked Ray’s wife if they could finish his car while he was recovering at the hospital. This member, along with others finished Ray’s car and then put it back in his garage so when he came home from the hospital it was there waiting. It was unbelievable.” They called the project, Ray’s Incentive, and it’s a truly remarkable story. Read the full story of Ray’s Incentive in our June issue of Region Rides. For more info on the Vintage Tin SRC, call Bill Rinaldi at 219.757.1138.- RR
Valpo Free Car
Sponsored by
Sunday May 18th
Porter County Fairgrounds For nearly 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, nearly 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 18th from
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9am to 2pm and is expecting to bring out car enthusiasts from around the region. “When he 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 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
r Show Written By: Danny Vega 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 there.” Alvarez is excited for this event and is already making plans for the next car show, which is scheduled for September 7. For more info on this car show, feel free to contact Alvarez at 219-241-9436. - RR
Editor’s Note: We’ll be there passing out copies of Region Rides & scouting for feature rides! See ya there!
38th Annual Regional St
Rod & Cus
and The 104
Two Day Event • On cruise route will also be lengthened this year to include much of the original 23mile race route, running from Cedar Lake, through Lowell and Crown Point, and back to Cedar Lake. “This will give people in all three communities, as well as those located in between, an opportunity to view and cheer-on the cruisers as they pass by,” Buczek stated. Holding the Cobe Cup is a truly historic thing for Lake County. Here’s an interesting known fact: The Cobe Cup Race was a predecessor to the Indy 500 and was originally staged in Crown Point in June of 1909 to honor Ira M. Cobe of the Chicago Automobile Club. The Cobe Cup Cruise is intended to featoric Cobe Cup! “We hated to see this One of the biggest car shows in the reture classic antique cars and trucks, but traditional event disappear and, as a car gion is making a big change – it’s moving vehicle models through the 1980’s are enthusiasts’ organization, we thought it its location!! You read it right, the 38th welcome to participate. Entrants can regwould be a good fit for us to sponsor it Annual Regional Streeters Rod & Custom ister their vehicles for a $10 pre-entry fee going forward,” said Ken Buczek, Vice Car Show will be taking place this year and also have the option to attend and President of the Regional Streeteers. “We at the American Legion Post 261, locatparticipate in the 2-day car show for an plan to highlight the 104th Cobe Cup ed at 13050 Washington Street in Ceadditional $20 fee. “So those who want Cruise as the opening day event for our dar Lake, on June 7th and 8th. “We’ve to take part in the historic cruise and twoannual two-day car show.” been at the Lake County Fairgrounds for day event can do so for just $30, preregThe antique car cruise will start and end 20 years but we had to move this year,” istered,” said Woldt. “Those wanting to at the Cedar Lake Fraternal Order of explained Wally Woldt, Webmaster and register the day of for both the cruise and Eagles’ facility, located at 13140 Lake Spokesman for the Regional Streeters. car show can do so for $35, $15 for just Shore Drive, next door to Post 261. The “We are a non-profit organization and the Cobe Cup.” this is our major fundraiser Registration for the Cobe of the year. We were invited Cup is from 9am-12pm and Crown Point by the American Legon an Cedar Lake the cruise starts at 1pm. Eagles to have the show at Those taking part in the car their location.” show can get to Post 261 But no need to worry – the at 8am. There will be thirty event itself will be just as classes for the car show and great as years past, if not five classes for trophies in better! After all, the Regioncar and truck for the Cobe al Streeters are bringing Cup. The Cob Cup Classes something pretty amazing are: Antique Class, Vintage back to the region - the hisLowell
34
treeters
Written By: Danny Vega
stom Car Show
4th Cobe Cup Cruise
ne Weekend • June 7th & 8th
Class, Old Timer Class, Cruiser Class and Muscle Man Class. “There will be a variety of awards given out, including the
Best of Cruise Trophy. Registrants will pick the winners,” explained Woldt. “Those who register for the event will receive a
dash plaque.” And those entering the gate to enjoy the Car Show action can do so for just $5, kids under 12 are free.There is no charge for spectators at the Cobe Cup area! Besides gorgeous cars on display, there will be a variety of door prizes and 50/50 drawings for entrants to get involved with. For more information, contact Ken Buczek at 219.663.2134 or visit the Streeters’ website at regionalstreeters.om The Regional Streeters is a 501(c) 3 organization. All monies raised from the Cobe Cup Cruise and annual car show, net of expenses, are donated to local charitable causes. - RR
2014 Car Show/Event Schedule All show dates, times and registration fees are subject to cancel or change. If in doubt, call appropriate phone numbers to confirm
May 2014 Mill Street Cruise & Show Saturday, May 3 5pm to 9pm • Lowell, IN
7th Annual Moose 2513 Car & Bike Show
Moose Lodge 2513 • Winamac, IN Saturday, May 10 $15 Entry Fee • Registration 9am to Noon Judging at 1pm • Awards at 3pm Rain or Shine • Food & Drinks 50/50 Drawing • DJ • Much More!
Bikers Against Child Abuse Benefit Ride
Three Monkeys • Crown Point, IN Saturday, May 17th Registration 10 • Ride at Noon Live Entertainment, Food, Beer Tent, Silent Auction and Raffle. Donations are welcome and very much appreciated! Call 219.662.7000 for More Information
FREE Valpo Car Shows Sponsored by Region Rides
Porter County Fairgrounds & Expo Center Sunday, May 18th 9am to 2pm • Valparaiso, IN Car Show • Swap Meet • Prizes 50 Awards • Vendors • More Must Register by 10:30am Call Mario for More Info - 219-464-9918
Highland Car Cruise/Show Saturday, May 31st 2pm to 6pm • Highland, IN
June 2014 Regional Streeters 38th Annual Rod & Custom Car, Truck & Bike Show
Saturday, June 21 3209 W Lincoln Hwy Merrillville, IN Registration: 8 to 10am Show Begins at 10am Awards Presented at 2:30pm Additional Info Contact: John Mucha 219-769-6381
Finnegan’s Pub Car Show Sunday, June 22 12pm to 6pm • Dyer, IN
Monster Truck Throwdown
South Bend, IN • June 29 St Joseph 4-H Fair MonsterTruckThrowdown.com for Info
July 2014 Mill Street Cruise & Show Saturday, July 5 5pm to 9pm • Lowell, IN
Christenson Chevy Car/Truck Show
All Makes & Models Welcome! Sunday, July 20 • Rain or Shine 9700 Indianapolis Blvd • Highland, IN Registration: 8am to 10am This is a Judged Event • Awards at 2pm $20 Early Registration • $25 After June 1st First 75 to Register Receive a T-Shirt, Dash Plaque & Goodie Bag All Proceeds to Benefit Humane Society of the Calumet Region and VA Fisher House For More Info Call 219-765-1933
Boot Campaign Charity Car Show
June 7 & 8 NEW LOCATION Cedar Lake American Legion 13050 Washington Street Cedar Lake, IN 46303
Show your Appreciation for American Troops! Registration Begins at 3:30pm July 26 • 4pm to 8pm $10 Donation Per Vehicle • 50/50 Raffles Finnegan’s Pub 1074 Joliet St Dyer, IN 46311
Mill Street Cruise
5th Annual Winfield Ace
20th Anniversary Hot Rod Power Tour 2014
Saturday July 26th • 9am to 2pm 11702 Randolph St • Crown Point, IN Registration 9 to Noon 14 Vehicle Classes!! Judging Begins at Noon $15 Entry Fee Food & Refreshments Available More Bob for More Info - 219.663.7676
Saturday, June 7 5pm to 9pm • Lowell, IN
Wednesday, June 11 Crown Point, IN Lake County Fairgrounds
36
June Continued... Schepel Buick GMC Charity Car Show for Elim Christian Services
Hardware Car Show
If we missed one, let us know! - Events@RegionRides.com
August 2014 Mill Street Cruise & Show Saturday, August 2nd 5pm to 9pm • Lowell, IN
Pick-Ups Bar The Big Blowout Saturday, August 2 21000 Torrence Ave Lynwood, IL 60411 708-757-6758
Rust Belt Rebellion Benefit Car Show Saturday, August 16 The Reed Ranch • 11am to Late Night 23121 Pierce St • Shelby, IN All Proceeds for Alzheimers $10 Donation • Trophies • Live Bands Food Vendors • Drive-In Movie • More!
Mill Street Cruise & Show Saturday, August 30th 5pm to 9pm • Lowell, IN
September 2014 Community Baptist Church Car Show Saturday, September 6 8651 W. 93rd. Ave. • St. John, IN 10am Registration • Free More Info Call 219-662-8336
FREE Valpo Car Shows Sponsored by Region Rides
Porter County Fairgrounds & Expo Center Sunday, September 7th 9am to 2pm • Valparaiso, IN Car Show • Swap Meet • Prizes 50 Awards • Vendors • More Must Register by 10:30am Call Mario for More Info - 219-464-9918
Iron Horse 4x4 Truck Show Sunday, September 7 Schererville Buddy & Pal’s
Finnegan’s Pub Car Show Sunday, September 21 12pm to 6pm • Dyer, IN
Cruise-In/Bike-Night Schedule All cruise/bike nights are subject to cancel or change. If in doubt, call appropriate phone numbers to confirm
Monday Night
Wednesday Night
Starting June • 5pm to 8pm Great Prizes weekly • No entry fee
330 E US Hwy 30 • Schererville Every Wednesday Night 4pm to 8pm
Chesterton Applebees & Advanced Auto Parts Zels
Rt 30 & Cline Ave • Merrillville, IN Starting May • 5pm
Blue Top Drive-In
8801 Indianapolis Blvd • Highland, IN Starting June • 5pm to Close
Tuesday Night Southlake Auto Mall
Every 1st and 3rd Tues May thru Sept • 4pm to 8pm with Burnout Contests!
Hebron Cruise Nights
Starting in May • Every Tuesday Patz’s Market Parking Lot
Downtown Monticello
Starting May • 5pm Around the Square Call Ken • 574.583.1101
Cheers
1942 45th St • Munster, IN Starting May • 6pm to 9pm
Michigan City Ind. Al’s Supermarket 212 E. Us Hwy 20 • Mich City The corner of Barker & Franklin 6:30pm to 9:30pm
Blue Top Drive-In
8801 Indianapolis Blvd • Highland, IN Starting June • 5pm to Close
Whites Pit Stop
Blue Top Drive-In
8801 Indianapolis Blvd • Highland, IN Starting June • 5pm to Close
Thursday Night “Full Throttle Thursdays”
Shenanigans Pub Starting May and Every Thursday 2:00 PM till Midnight 6121 Melton Rd • Portage, IN 46368 All cars and bikes welcome! Full menu & drinks available Big parking lot and outdoor dining For more info call Chastity at 219.309.4550
Ryans
4461 Franklin St, Michigan City, IN Every Thursday night • 5:30 PM FREE FOOD!
Crown Point Square
Every Thurs Night • 5pm to 8pm More info to come
Blue Top Drive-In
8801 Indianapolis Blvd • Highland, IN Starting June • 5pm to Close
Friday Night
Simon Sez Cruise Night
2250 W 81st Ave • Merrillville, IN 7pm to Whenever!
Valpo Harley Davidson Cruise Night
1151 US 30 • Valparaiso Live Entertainment, Beer Garden, Lighted Parking Lot, Food by Susies Café
Blue Top Drive-In
8801 Indianapolis Blvd • Highland, IN Starting June • 5pm to Close
Saturday Night Simon Sez Cruise Night
2250 W 81st Ave • Merrillville, IN 7pm to Whenever!
LaPorte’s Cruise In @ Staples Parking Lot Starting May • Every Saturday Night Hwy. 2 E. • 5pm to 9pm
Downtown Lowell Mill Street Cruise
First Saturday of the Month May through September New this year if rained out cruise will be 2nd Saturday of the month time 5pm til 9pm Paul 219-730-4314 John 219-789-0494
Lansing Cruise Nights
Starting in June 6pm to 9pm • 119 Street in Lansing For more info call Norb 219.384.7147
Blue Top Drive-In
8801 Indianapolis Blvd • Highland, IN Starting June • 5pm to Close
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TAHOE LTZ
45th Ave.
Christenson Chevrolet
94
Indianapolis Blvd.
ChristensonChevy.com
INDIANA
CHEVROLET
ILLINOIS
Route 30
65
80 45th Ave.
Christenson Chevrolet
Route 30
65