Spring 2023 - Spring Forward

RULES

• PARTICIPATION IS FREE - NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED!

• NO MOTORCYCLES OR BIKES

• PERIOD CORRECT CARS WITH REGISTRATION & INSURANCE ID

• NO ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES

• NO VEHICLES MOVED ONCE PARKED

• NO PARTIALLY PRIMED VEHICLES

• NO TRAILERS IN SHOW AREA

• NO SPECIAL PARKING ARRANGEMENTS

• ALL VEHICLES MUST BE DRIVEN THROUGH GATE

• ALL VEHICLES MUST DISPLAY OFFICIAL WINDOW CARD DURING EVENT

• ALL NJ MOTOR VEHICLE LAWS WILL BE IN EFFECT & ENFORCED BY VINELAND POLICE DEPARTMENTS

• NO CRUISING AT END OF EVENT. HOWEVER ALL TRAFFIC LAWS APPLY IF YOU DO!

• NO BICYCLE RIDING DURING EVENT, MUST WALK BIKE OR YOU WILL BE BANNED FROM THE AVENUE AND ESCORTED AWAY BY POLICE.

• NO EXCEPTIONS TO THE RULES

UNDER THE HOOD...

Issue #1 Spring 2023

Sneak Peek at Hot Shows....................................................................................................5

Motoring On with Twisted Restorations....................................................................6-7

Tire Talk with Instagram’s Tire Gal...............................................................................8-9

Event Spotlight..............................................................................................................10-14

Cruise Calendar....................................................................................................................15

Show Calendar.....................................................................................................................18

Cruising 101...........................................................................................................................23

Shiftin Gears..........................................................................................................................23

Art Director: Matthew Loeb

Advertising & Sales: Jerry duPhily

Digital Services Director: Michael O’Brian

Editorial & Research Team: Jerry duPhily, Larry Lazareff

Contributing Writers: Frank Adkins, Larry Lazareff, Ben Notaro, Lou Sitaras.

Contributing Photographers: Lindsay duPhily, Joe Grace, Ben Notaro, Bob Sliwecki

Founder and Special Consultant: Larry Lazareff

Four issues published annually (Spring, Spring-Summer, Summer-Fall, Fall-Winter)

Cruising Magazine, LLC. All rights reserved.

Cruising is designed and produced by TSN Media, Inc.

Mailing and business address: 164 Christina Landing, Wilmington, DE 19801

Contacting Cruising Magazine:

Send all written correspondences to: Cruising Magazine, c/o TSN Media, 164 Christina Landing, Wilmington, DE 19801 Phone: 302-655-6483

Email: Contact@TSNPub.com CruisingMagazine.net

Show and Go Garage

Attendees take a break from inspecting the classics to listen to a few classics at the annual ‘50s, ‘60, ‘70s & ‘80’s show in Wildwood. N.J.

Photo by Ben Notaro

SNEAK PEEK HOT SHOWS

Mondays: Mighty Joe’s Cruise Nights (beginning April 3)

Joe’s Exxon, 1231 Rt. 206, Shamong, NJ 08088;

Between 4- 4:30pm start

Info: 609-268-0303

March 25-26: Mid-Atlantic Indoor Nationals

Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, 100 Station Ave., Oaks, PA; Sat: 9am-8pm; Sun: 9am-4pm

Info: 717-269-2625; midatlanticindoornats.com

March 26: 51st Annual Swap Meet & Car Corral at Salem County Fairgrounds

735 Rt. 40 (Harding Hwy.), Woodstown, NJ;

8am-3pm

Info: Chuck @ 609-221-5435; sjraaca.com

April 8: Del Rods Kick-off Event

Green Tree Shopping Center, Rt. 8, Dover, DE; 10am-2pm

Info: 302-674-5365

April 15: Delaware Spartans Car Show

Hudson Fields, 29763 Eagle Crest Road, Milton, DE

9am-5pm

Info: 302-519-6440; DelawareSpartans.com/enter

April 16 & May 21, : Soul Riders Auto Club Sunday Shows

VFW Hall #3792, 5695 Summit Bridge Road, Townsend, DE; 3-7pm

Info: Tony Lewis @ 302-998-5951

April 29: VFW Spring Car Show

815 Turkey Point Road, North East, MD

10am-3pm

Info: 410-642-2847

April 29-30: DelRods Car Show at Dover International Speedway

Leipsic Road, Dover, DE; Sat: 9am-1:30pm; Sun:

8am-2pm

Info: 302-674-5365; delrodscarclub.org

April 19-23: Spring Carlisle

Carlisle Fairgrounds, 1000 Bryn Mawr Road, Carlisle, PA;

Wed- Sat: 7am- 6 pm; Sun: 7am- 12pm

Info: 717-243-7855; CarlisleEvents.com

May 12-13: Import & Performance Nationals

Carlisle Fairgrounds, 1000 Bryn Mawr Road, Carlisle, PA;

Fri & Sat: 7am- 6pm; Sun: 7am- 12pm Info: 717-243-7855; CarlisleEvents.com

May 13: 2nd Annual Life Worth Living Big Jim Edwards Automotive Show

2 E. Commerce St. Bridgeton, NJ 08302

10am-2pm Info: 856-207-3070; RToddEdwards@gmail.com

May 20: Chariots of Fire Car Show

Classic Auto Mall, 6180 Morgantown Rd., Morgantown, PA 19543

10am-3pm Info: 610-322-1622; pastorweed@hotmail.com

May 21: First State Mustang & Ford Club Spring Show

Porter Ford, 600 Ogletown Road, Newark, DE 10am-3pm Info: 302-218-2703; grl5252@comcast.net

May 21: 50th Corvette Show

Milltown American Legion, 4 JFK Drive, Milltown, NJ 9am-3pm Info: spiritof53.net

June 2-4: Ford Nationals

Carlisle Fairgrounds, 1000 Bryn Mawr Road, Carlisle, PA; Fri & Sat: 7am- 6 pm; Sun: 7 am- 12pm Info: 717-243-7855; CarlisleEvents.com

June 3: 26th Eastern Shore Corvette Club Show

Redmen Lodge #149, Rt. 14 & Clyde Ave, Fruitland, Md. 21826 9am-3pm Info: EasternShoreCorvetteClub.org

June 10: Cruise Down Memory Lane

Landis Ave., Vineland, NJ 5-9pm Info: Marvin Askins @ 856-697-6306

Motoring On

Motoring On

Herbie and Julie Reynolds maintain the Herb’s Parts legacy with their custom shop Twisted Restorations

By Frank Adkins

Herb’s Parts was a long-standing pillar of the automotive community until recently. Founded in 1982 as Herb’s Mid-Atlantic Mopar Parts, in the early days Herb Reynolds dealt in good used parts. By the middle of that decade, Herb’s brother Ken joined him, and he brought the Mopar Performance line into their partnership. By the end of the decade, the pair had become regulars at the major Mopar shows. In time, Ken left to pursue other interests while Herb expanded the line of new restoration parts that the company offered.

Initially, the company was based in Smyrna, Del., but in 2000 Herb relocated to a new facility in Middletown, north of Odessa. His new building allowed him to expand his services to include anything from light maintenance to full restorations on his customers’ cars. He and his wife Ruth were married the previous year, and together they ran the business while continuing to attend all of the major Mopar shows. In addition to his friendly demeanor, Herb is perhaps best known for creating and offering correct restoration oil filters as well as a line of interior paints for older Chrysler vehicles.

Herbie and Julie are pictured with Herb Sr.'s '70 Dodge Challenger R/T convertible in front of their new shop in Frederica, Del., which is nearly complete.

Herb’s son, Herbie, grew up in the business. He, too, is an avid old car enthusiast who has worked on countless customers’ cars and worked the vendor booth with his parents since 1998 when he was just 5 years old. Furthermore, he has restored a number of cars of his own after hours, including the Challenger that he drove while in high school.

In 2018, Herb recruited Julie Watson to the family’s tight-knit team.

“I like Mopars, and I thought what the Herb’s Parts crew did was intriguing. I decided to try something new,” says Julie.

Coming from a strong background in both the auto parts business as well as management, she worked closely with Ruth, handling customers’ parts orders and managing inventory. She, too, accompanied Herb, Ruth, and Herbie to the major shows.

Soon she also began working in the shop. As Herbie explains, “She is very good at anything detail oriented — dash work, vinyl striping, etc. Her hands are very steady.”

While the business was thriving, tragedy struck the family when Ruth’s daughter, Roxanne, was diagnosed with cancer. As her condition worsened, Herb and Ruth knew family must take priority over the business. Instead of traveling during show season, they wanted to spend time with their daughter and granddaughter, making the most of the months they had left. Sadly, Roxanne passed away in October 2020.

That same year, Herb and Ruth sold the parts side of Herb’s Parts to AMS Obsolete. Under this new ownership, the Herb’s Parts name lives on, and folks can easily find the products that were available exclusively from Herb’s. Even the Herb’s Parts website remains, and it looks just as it did when Herb and Ruth were running the show.

The restoration side of the business, however, continues under Herbie and Julie’s ownership. The new name of their restoration/repair business is Twisted Restorations. Now located near Frederica, Del., their shop can handle all types of repairs from maintenance to ground-up restorations. They can perform disc brake retrofits, and they install vintage air kits, fuel injection, and electronic ignition. They also maintain an inventory of used parts. More important, their customers still receive the same knowledgeable and friendly service they have come to appreciate. Currently, the scope of their business is focused on Chrysler vehicles, but that might change in the future as the company grows.

“People might think that with the sale of Herb’s Parts we aren’t around anymore, but we are still here,” says Herbie.

For those who might not be familiar with Herb or Herbie, he continued, “We are trustworthy, and we pamper customers’ cars. We are enthusiasts ourselves.”

As time permits, Herbie and Julie are restoring a ’69 Plymouth Road Runner for her and a ’68 Plymouth GTX for him.

— See the Twisted Restorations ad in this issue of Cruising or call 302-4301020 with inquiries or to set up an appointment at the shop, located at 704 Robbins Rd., Frederica Del. 19946. You can also visit their Facebook page or email them at twistedrestos@gmail.com.

This light blue '65 Dodge Coronet had its restoration started elsewhere, but the customer brought it to Twisted Restorations to have the project completed.

The dark maroon '68 Plymouth Barracuda was just painted. Julie did the body work, and she installed the stripes after it was painted.

Tire Talk

WITH INSTAGRAM’S TIRE GAL

By Lou Sitaras

When you meet Cynthia Maci (pronounced Macy), your first impression might lead you to believe she works for a Paris designer such as Louis Vuitton or Christian Dior. Impeccably dressed with a smile that can melt the coldest of hearts, it’s refreshing to learn she is not only a down-to-earth car gal, but a customer development manager for American Tire Distributors — the largest of three national tire distributors in North America.

Maci knows tires and she’s happy to share that knowledge with anyone willing to listen — especially men and women who may not understand just how important it is to have quality tires on their vehicle. After all, as Cynthia points out, your tires are the only things connecting you to the road.

Cynthia recently shared a few of her tire tips with listeners on WVLT, 92.1 FM and the feedback was tremendous. She regularly talks tires on Instagram, where she’s known as the tire gal (@tire_gal). Today, she shares her knowledge with the readers of Cruising Magazine .

Cynthia Maci inspects the condition of the bias ply tires on Matt Guthan’s 1967 Dodge Coronet, a car purchased new by Matt's grandfather.

CRUISING: Do you normally work with the public or with corporate clients?

MACI: I mainly work with new car dealers’ parts and service departments. I recommend tires, help them stock tires, and train them on a future strategy of where the market’s going.

CRUISING: So, if I’m shopping for a tire and one is $100 and one is $300, is there really a difference? After all, they’re both black and round.

MACI: All tires are not created equal, not by a long shot. Tires are mainly graded in tiers: tiers 1 through 7. You want to stay mainly in tiers 1 through 4. Purchasing a lower-grade tier can affect handling, braking, tire life, and traction. It’s always better to stick with your name brands such as Michelin, Continental, General, Khumo, Toyo . . . those are all great brands. If you can only afford a budget tire, something like Ironman or Hercules would be a great choice. They are built in certified factories with great service records.

CRUISING: What is one of your pet peeves regarding tires?

MACI: When I see people spend thousands and thousands of dollars on classic car restorations making them look great and upgrading the suspension and then I look at the poor choice they made for tires. I always wonder why you would want to cheap out on the one item that actually keeps you on the roadway and protects all those other things you spent so much money for.

CRUISING: Does it really make a difference having your tires rotated?

MACI: Yes, absolutely! Because your tires are always taking abuse, especially the front ones that tend to hit puddles or potholes first. It also allows the technician to see if they’re cupping or wearing unevenly so if there’s an inflation issue or suspension issue, you can address it without burning through your tires.

CRUISING: What is your opinion of the BF Goodrich T/A radial, a tire often seen on many classic muscle cars.

MACI: BF Goodrich is actually made by Michelin as their tier 2 line of tires. It’s a fantastic tire! Michelin spends more money on research, by far, than any other tire company and they basically pass down their technology as they retire certain tires. This goes for their passenger tires as well. The BF Goodrich Advantage radial is an excellent tire!

CRUISING: Are you familiar with some white-lettered tires that begin to yellow?

MACI: Yes, manufacturers source inks from different locations and depending on where they’re sourcing it at that particular time, it may be a different formula and all of a sudden, they find they have a problem and they have to fix it. A company like Michelin is really good at handling any issues and taking care of them. Another factor is what you’re cleaning them with. Bleach or a bleach product will actually have a yellowing effect over time.

CRUISING: Many classic car owners put very few miles on their cars, and they just sit. As a general guide, what’s the maximum amount of time you’d recommend they keep their tires before replacing them with fresh rubber?

MACI: The general rule of thumb is 10 years although you may have to replace them sooner. It’s always a good idea to have them inspected occasionally by a professional for traces of dry rot. Even if your car is kept in a garage, it’s still exposed to alternating hot and cold temperatures, dust, dirt, inflation pressures, and UV light coming in through the windows. Ten years really is the maximum amount of time.

CRUISING: Let’s say you buy a used car and you don’t know how old the tires are. Is there somewhere you can look to find out?

MACI: There is a DOT code. All tires pretty much have all the info you’d ever need and more on the sidewall although it’s only printed on one side so you may have to look on the inside sidewall, depending on how the tire was mounted. The DOT code contains info such as the type of tire, size, manufacturing plant, whether it’s passenger or light truck and more. The last four digits of that DOT code show the week and the year it was manufactured. EX. If the code reads 3521 then it was manufactured in the 35th week of 2021. That’s how you know the age of the tire.

CRUISING: Some people today are using nitrogen in their tires. Air is basically free while nitrogen costs about $300 for a set of four tires. Is there a benefit of using nitrogen?

MACI: Nitrogen is not affected by drastic temperature changes. The density of air changes as it gets colder or warmer. It’s why sometimes you’ll see a lowpressure warning light when it suddenly gets cold outside. Keep in mind though that you have to find a place to add nitrogen if your pressure gets low. Adding air into the mix will dilute the effects of the nitrogen. Do I think it’s worth it? I think your money could be better spent on high-quality tires.

CRUISING: Do you recommend that drivers use emergency fix-a-flat type products when they have a flat tire?

MACI: Only in a dire emergency. I mean DIRE. Like, even a tow truck is not available. It ruins the tire and the tire pressure monitoring system sensor. And potentially the wheel depending on how long you leave it in there. If anyone uses it you MUST — please, please, please — tell the tire place/dealer that you put it in there and which tire because when they go to pop it off the rim it can explode and seriously injure the technician. It’s bad, bad, bad.

This midwestern woman has proven she knows tires. There’s so much more we wanted to talk to Cynthia about — things like speedrated tires, bias-ply tires, tires for battery powered cars, and summer-only tires, to name a few. Look for a follow up article in a future issue of Cruising and remember, you can always find Cynthia on Instagram @tire_gal.

Cruising Magazine has been proud to feature many passionate classic car women on its pages over the past few years and there’s no doubt Cynthia Maci fits right in. You can often find her smiling as she’s rowing through the gears of her six-speed transmission Subaru BRZ sports car. Yes, she’s a car gal all the way!

Just another day for Cynthia Maci, taking tire inventory for American Tire Distributors.

Fabulous ‘50s , ‘60s ‘70s Car Show

One of the many memories that link us to the good old days is the music we enjoyed back in the day. The sounds of rock and roll blasting through our car radio (AM radio) gave us a good vibe. We still get to enjoy the musical memories of yesterday once a year at the annual ‘50s, ‘60s ‘70s Weekend in the doo-wop capital of the world — Wildwood, N.J.

The event features a classic car show, music from three great decades and a street fest with constant free live music and live concert at night in the Convention Hall. The headliner for this show was Tommy James and the Shondells with selling fast. This annual event is held each October.

—Text & Photos: Ben Notaro

Caffeine and Chrome

Back in the month of January, the weather was cold and the area weather and was not encumbered by snow. Put these things together and you have a great opportunity to enjoy a morning of cars and coffee. In the case of the Gateway Classics auto dealership, it was the right time to host a Caffeine and Chrome kind of morning.

Located in West Deptford, N.J., this cruising social gathering drew more than 50 rides of various makes and models . Cruisers can come out every last Saturday of the month and not only enjoy each others’ company, they can also enjoy plenty of pastries and hot coffee.

The Gateway Classics Caffeine and Chrome gatherings are also family and pet friendly so the family pet can come out and share the morning. By the way, Gateway Classics also buys and sells cool classic rides so you can head on out with your family ride and maybe just leave purchasing a cool classic for the next gathering.

EVENT SPOTLIGHTS

Lancaster Cars and Coffee

Lancaster, Pennsylvania is noted for its Amish communities as well as its scenic pastures and smooth rolling hills. It is also a home to an impromptu event staged by a car enthusiast who has the philosophy of keeping an event simple. Shea Stevenson had a vision of staging a cars-and-coffee event and putting the emphasis on sharing a good time with fellow car owners. Well, that event has grown into a mega gathering where on some months the turnout exceeds 1,000 cars.

The Lancaster Cars and Coffee, as the cruise is called, is staged monthly and the gathering takes place at various locations in the Lancaster area. It is noted that some of the participants travel from areas nearly four hours away.

If you would like to know where the LC&C events are happening in 2023, you can check them out on Facebook or via their website their website www.Squareup.com/store/Lancaster-cars-and-coffee

— Text by Ben Notaro, Photos by Robert Sliwecki

— Text by Ben Notaro, Photos by Shea Stevenson

THE CAR CLINIC

302.421.9100 | 59 Germay Dr. | Wilmington, DE 19804

LUMBERTON SEASON WARM-UP

Starting a new year in this part of the country, often means an indoor activity due to the weather. Usually the temperatures are just plain cold. But car guys and gals want a jump on spring and when Mother Nature opens the door a bit. When there is a moderation in temperature, that’s a signal to have a car gathering.

January first in this new year saw the first unofficial opening of the car season in the town of Lumberton, N.J. A local fire station that was purchased by a car enthusiast became the location for the car gathering start to the endless summer of 2023.

There were plenty of cruisers with cool rides who braved the chilled air to share the warmth of the hobby and enjoy the neat collection of automobiles and related items on display inside. Starting the New Year with a cool “four-alarm” event is a great way to get celebrate getting the car adrenaline going.

— Text by Ben Notaro, Photos by Robert Sliwecki

“Where you are treated like a patient, not a victim”

EVENT SPOTLIGHTS

Cruisin’ In Winter

During the off season of car activities, cruisers usually look for something automotive to keep the “juices” flowing. A few cruisers got together and made an appointment to go for a tour of a professional restoration facility. They agreed that watching a show-quality ride being constructed and being able to ask the proprietor questions can be a very motivating thing.

Northfield Diner Cruise

If you are familiar with cruising and cruisers, you are quite aware they enjoy getting together and having a good meal. It’s a natural that friends, cars and food are a great combination at any given time.

Enter Tom Rightler who is the owner/operator of Mid-Atlantic Muscle Cars located in Bridgeton, NJ. Rightler is no stranger to restoring muscle cars and has animpressive list of clients and accomplishments. It’s also safe to say his passion for the Chevelle served as special inspiration.

A group of car enthusiasts decided to give a shout to their fellow cruisers via social media and friends and headed out to the Northfield Diner and Family Restaurant in Northfield, N.J.

While at his shop, one guest (Jim Solomon) presented Rightler with his watercolor artwork depicting Rightler’s reconstructed General Lee. A walk-through had guests checking out an area that had an original contemporary Shelby Cobra frame ready for the body (as well as related parts) and assembly to be completed.

A sunny and crisp day brought around two dozen cruisers in all types of fine vehicles — both classic and contemporary. A nice event in a traditional family eatery definitely brought out a lot of smiles to warm the day.

Visiting a shop that specializes in classic and specialty rides is a great way keep the spirit alive and get to see another side of our hobby. Check out Mid-Atlantic Muscle Cars at midatlanticmusclecar.com

8 AND 9 INCH FORD REARS

WE SELL NEW AND REBUILT 8” & 9” Ford Third Members, all parts in stock for same day pick-up or shipping.

•From stock Trac Loc posi to 2,000 H-P, all out race third members.

WE SELL NEW AND REBUILT 8” & 9” Ford Third Members, all parts in stock for same day pick-up or shipping.

•Standard, Nodular or Alu. case

•From stock Trac Loc posi to 2,000 H-P, all out race third members.

•47 Different 9” ratios in stock. Rebuilt or new Trac Loc Posi, new Tru Trac Clutchless Posies, Spools & Detroit Lockers. Give me a call or e-mail to discuss your needs, requirements and pricing.

•Standard, Nodular or Alu. case

•47 Different 9” ratios in stock. Rebuilt or new Trac Loc Posi, new Tru Trac Clutchless Posies, Spools & Detroit Lockers.

•All units carry a six month 100% warranty from time of install.

MENTION THIS AD TO RECEIVE $25 OFF

MENTION THIS AD TO RECEIVE $25 OFF

Alan Von Ahnen • 609-420-7113

alan@8and9inchFordRears.com

www.8and9inchFordRears.com

•All units carry a six month 100% warranty from time of install. Alan Von Ahnen • 609-420-7113

alan@8and9inchFordRears.com www.8and9inchFordRears.com

— Text by Ben Notaro, photos by Robert Sliwecki

— Text and Photos by Ben Notaro

BLOCK BLUEPRINTING AVAILABLE!

on our RMC V30 CNC Block Machining Center BUILD YOUR ENGINE TO THE FACTORY BLUEPRINT!

Cylinder Blocks Honed on our NEW Rottler HP7A Precision Cylinder Hone

Cylinder Head Rebuilding, Crankshaft Grinding, Connecting Rods, Flywheels, Engine Balancing, Crack Checking ALL ENGINE MACHINING DONE IN-HOUSE USING STATE OF THE ART EQUIPMENT

ALL ASPECTS OF ENGINE WORK • FROM FLYWHEELS TO REBUILDS!

OVER 40 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE BUILDING ENGINES

EVENT LISTINGS

Area CRUISES

Cruising Magazine makes every effort to ensure all listings are correct. However, event listings are subject to change. Please call ahead to avoid a wasted trip. ►

Every Monday year-round starting April 3

Mighty Joe’s Cruise Nights

Mighty Joe’s Gas Grill & Deli, 1231 Route 206, Shamong, NJ 08088

Lineup between 4-4:30pm

Every Monday night yearly. Good food, good friends, cool cars.

Info: 609-268-0303

Every Tuesday through October

Millsboro Dairy Queen Cruz-N Dairy Queen Grill & Chill, 129 Main St, Millsboro, DE 19966

4-9pm

Info: Rusty 302-934-7377

Every 1st Saturday starting April 1 through Nov.

Car Cruise

BJ’s parking lot Millsboro, DE

4-9pm

Info: Rusty 302-934-7377

Every Tuesday through October staring April 4

Rita’s Ice Kent Island Cruise

Rita’s Italian Ice, 210 Kent Landing, Kent Island, MD 21666

5pm-until…

Weather permitting. Come on out to Rita’s Ice on Kent Island and see what old rides show up! BOGO at Rita’s with your old ride on the lot!

Every Tuesday through October starting April 4

Bellmawr Cruise Night

Behind Auto Zone at 700 Crescent Blvd, Bellmawr NJ 08031

6pm until?

Hosted by the Bellmawr Cruisers. Any make or model. We are the Seinfelds of cars, we do nothing except talk and enjoy cars!

Info Doug: 609-820-2290, dlewis44@comcast. net and Jeff Bischoff 856-906-6926

Every Friday night

All-American Muscle Cars Cruise-In Londonderry Restaurant, 47 Auction Circle, Reedsville, PA 17084

5-8pm

Presented by Keystone State Muscle Cars. All makes and models welcome. Lots of awesome cars to see hosted by Tim Drake. Bring a kid to the cruise-in!

Second Fridays through October starting May 12

Grotto Pizza Presents 2nd Friday Cruise Nights

Grotto Pizza, 309 Auto Park Drive, Middletown, DE !9709

5-9pm

Come out and show off your ride and enjoy food and drinks at Grotto Pizza. Rain date is always the 3rd Friday!

Info: carshows4nonprofits@gmail.com; 302-983-6966

Every Friday through October starting April 14

Street Survivors Friday Cruise Nights

To the left of Burger King by Tractor Supply, Park 97 East Park Shopping Center, 7988 Crain Highway, Glen Burnie MD 21061

5:30-9pm

No Entry Fee. All vehicles allowed. Plenty of parking. Music and 50/50 every week. Car show flyers and club shirts and sweatshirts are available at the trailer. Food available at nearby establishments.

Info Tom Pattan 443-838-0948 or Rick 443-829-5658 streetsurvivorsofmaryland.com

Every 2nd & 4th Saturday through November starting March 25

Mr. Bill’s Weekly Cruise Night

Mr. Bill’s of Winslow Township, 453 Route 73 South, Hammonton, NJ 08037

5-9:30pm

Great food, custard and friends. First 15 cruise cars receive a free small custard! Cruise in for a fun time.

Info: 609-878-3829

Professional Automotive Machine Shop

EVENT LISTINGS

First Saturdays through October starting April 1

Corvette Club Monthly Car Show & Cruise Fox Run Shopping Center, Bear, DE 19701

4-8pm

Street Rods, classic, antique, race, trucks and motorcycles. Bring whatever you have! No entry fees. Handicap Accessible, Food, Kids, Music.

Info: Bruce Norman: (908) 342-4293 vetteclub.org

First Saturdays throug October starting May 6

Chesapeake Classic Car Club Cruise-In Westside Village Shopping Center next to Chick-Fil-A, Easton, MD 21601

5pm

Handicap Accessible, Food, Kids, Music, All Vehicles Welcome.

Info: info@ccccofeaston.org ccccofeaston.org

2nd & 4th Wednesdays through September starting April 12 & 26

Backroad Cruisers Classic Car Get Togethers

Seconds Wednesdays at Woodstown Diner, 16 East Ave., Woodstown, NJ 08098

Fourth Wednesdays at Mullica Hill Plaza, Rt. 77, Mullica Hill, NJ 08062

5-8pm both nights

All vehicles welcome.

Info: Lavern 856-308-5921; John 856-468-5107 backroadcruisers.net

2nd & 4th Fridays through September

Historic Smithville Car Cruises

Smithville Village Greene, Smithville, NJ 08205

5-8pm

Cruise on down to Smithville and hang out! Drive to the side parking lot of the Village Greene and near the red covered bridge, you will see orange cones set up. Move a cone and park your car.

2nd & last Saturdays April through October

Del Rods Cruise Nights

Green Tree Shopping Center, Route 8, Dover, DE 19904

5-8pm

Fee, Handicap Accessible, Food, Kids, Music, All Vehicles Welcome, Trophies. Sponsored by Hardees.

Info: Rich Selg 302-674-5365; rsludge47@aol.com

Second Saturdays through October starting April 8

2022 Cruise Nights at the Bobcat Creamery

The Bobcat Creamery, 117 South Main Street, Manchester, PA 17345

4-8pm through August.

Presented by Motor Menders Rod & Custom. Rain date is the following Saturday. All vehicles welcome. Dash plaques, 3 trophies, 50/50, Oldies music.

Third Tuesdays through September beginning April 18

Delaware Valley Road Runners (DVRR)

Cruise Night

Falls Township Community Park, 9061 Mill Creek Road, Levittown, PA 19054

5-8pm

Handicap Accessible, Food, Kids, Music, All Vehicles Welcome, 25 plaques each cruise night. Come out for a great time! New members are always welcome.

Info: Len: 215-510-6629, lenpribish@hotmail.com delawarevalleyroadrunners.com

Third Wednesdays through September starting April 19

South Jersey Region AACA Cruise Nights

Bobbit Auto, 595 Salem Quinton Road, Salem, NJ 08079

5-8pm

Hot dogs and beverages for all drivers who bring their antique auto. Enjoy music by Ed Counsellor and see old friends.

Info: Ron Scott 856-629-6085 or Martin Erdner 856-935-0537; sjraaca.com

Third Wednesdays through November starting April 19

Black Top Villains Car Club Cruise Nights

Nifty Fifties, 4670 Route 42, Turnersville, NJ 08012

6-9pm

We are collecting non-perishable food items at all our cruises from April to November. Please help us by donating.

Info: 609-502-3736 or blacktopvilliansscc@comcast.net

Fourth Fridays through October starting May 26

Bertucci’s presents 4th Friday Cruise Nights

201 W. Main Street, Christiana, DE 19702

5-10:30pm

Bertucci’s Italian Restaurant invites you to bring your car out and enjoy conversation, food and bragging rights. Discounts to participants of the cruise night inside and outdoors. Absolutely no burn outs.

Info: carshows4nonprofits@gmail.com (302) 983-6966

Restorations LLC

Area SHOWS

Cruising Magazine makes every effort to ensure all listings are correct. However, event listings are subject to change. Please call ahead to avoid a wasted trip. Check www.CruisingMagazine.net for rainout updates. ►

March 25 & 26 (Saturday & Sunday)

Mid-Atlantic Indoor Nationals Car, Truck & Bike Show

Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, 100 Station Ave., Oaks, PA 19456 Sat 9am-8pm; Sun 9am-4pm

Fee, Handicap Accessible, Food, Kids 10 & under free, Music, All Vehicles Welcome, Trophies, Vendors Welcome More Information: Info: 717-269-2625 midatlanticindoornats.com or motoramaproductions.com

March 26 (Sunday)

51st Annual Swap Meet & Car Corral Rain or shine

Salem County Fairgrounds

735 Harding Highway, Woodstown, NJ 08302 8am-3pm

Automotive related items only. Rain or shine. Handicap Accessible, Food, Over 350 Vendors! Day-of registration available. Info: Chuck Gibson: 609-221-5435, gibsonorgntnr@aol.com sjraaca.com

April 1 (Saturday)

13th Annual Steakouts Car Show

85 Harding Highway, Elmer, NJ 08318 1pm

Registration starts at 10:30am; show starts at 1pm. Pre-registration fee: $10; Day-of fee: $15. First 50 cars get a commemorative dash plate.

April 1st (Saturday)

2st Car Show for Vineland Veterans Home Chestnut Branch Park, 545 Main Street, Sewell, NJ 08080 10am-2:30pm

Sponsored by VFW District 13. $25 registration from 9-10am. Trophy presentation at 3 pm- most unique, Best in Show, Best Stock, Best Modified, Best Paint, Best Classic, District Commander’s Choice, Mayor’s Choice. Chance auction & 50/50. Come show off your ride! Fun for the whole family with great cars, music, breakfast, lunch and awards. Info: Tony 856-371-9047 or Tom 803-309-8531

April 2 (Sunday)

25th Annual Metro Petro Show

8AM-1 PM

Rain or shine

Pompton Lakes Elks Lodge

15 Perrin Ave, Pompton Lakes, NJ 07442

Featuring Automobilia, petroliana, vintage advertising, license plates, old toys; hot rod, racing and motorcycle memorabilia; garage art; rec room décor; man cave items; and more fun stuff! Indoor and outdoor vendors. Free parking, free admission. All are welcome. Easy to access from I-287 Exit 57. Info: Ed at201-493-7172 metropetro.weebly.com

April 2 (Sunday)

36th Spring Annual Harrisburg National Spring Swap Meet & Bike Show

Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex 2300 Cameron Street, Harrisburg, PA 17110 9am-5pm

Jam-On Productions National Swap Meet antique & custom motorcycle show. The largest indoor Swap Meet with 70,000 square feet packed to the gills with parts. Parts auction at 2 pm. Unsold items will be sledgehammered. $300 cash door prize at 4 pm- must be present to win. Classes for all motorcycles. Set up on Saturday from 2-9pm and Sunday 5-9am. Indo: 240-367-7509 motorcycleswapmeets.com

April 9 (Saturday)

Cruise for a Cure Scleroderma Car Show Nifty Fifty’s, 4670 Rt. 42, Blackwood, NJ 08012 10am-1pm

All makes and models welcome for the car show. The event is free to the public and all are welcome. Plenty of great music, raffle baskets and 50/50 on the paved lot of Nifty Fifty’s. Prizes and trophies awarded to the top 30 cars judges.

Info: Dan at Hot Rod Garage 856-417-2669 or Kathy Griffin at 609-519-1770

EVENT LISTINGS

April 8 (Saturday)

Del Rods Spring Kick-Off Show

Rain date: April 9

Greentree Plaza, Route 8, Dover, DE 19904

10am-2pm

Registration closes at noon. Registration Fee: $15. Food Available, Trophies, DJ. Info: (302)674-5365 & rsludge47@aol.com Delrodscarclub.org

April 14-16 (Friday-Sunday)

41st Annual Spring Englishtown Swap Meet Raceway Park, 230 Pension Road, Englishtown, NJ 07726

Fri & Sat until 6 pm; Sun until 4pm Hundreds of cars, vendors and car parts. Adults $12; kids under 12 free. Free parking, no pets. Top ten trophies each day. Info: Paul at 732-446-5154; Racewaypark.com

April 15 (Saturday)

Morrisville Senior Servicenter Car Show

Rain date: April 16

31 E. Cleveland Avenue, Morrisville, PA 19067 9am-2pm

Presented by the Bucks County Stangs. $20 to show; free for spectators. Music, 50/50, 100% of all money collected will be donated to the center. Top 20 trophies will be awarded.

April 15 (Saturday)

Delaware Spartans Car Show

Rain date: April 16

Hudson Fields Concerts, 29763 Eagle Crest Road, Milton, DE 9am-5pm

This event is to help raise money for a local travel Baseball team. All proceeds go towards tournaments and equipment that we may need. Food trucks, music, vendors.

Info: Chad Brittingham at 302-519-6440 and cbrit1984@icloud.com

April 16 (Sunday)

Soul Riders Auto Club’s Car Show

VFW Hall #3792, 5695 Summit Bridge Road, Townsend, DE 19734 3-7pm

Collecting new men’s and women’s socks and underwear for the homeless. Handicap Accessible, Food, Kids, Music, Trophies. Info: 302-998-5951; comp1deej@yahoo.com

April 19-23 (Wednesday-Sunday)

Spring Carlisle Collector Car Show & Auction

Carlisle Fairgrounds, 1000 Bryn Mawr Road, Carlisle, PA 17013

Show: Wed- Sat: 7am-6 pm; Sun: 7am-12pm; Auction April 21 & 22 in the Fairgrounds

Kids under 12 free! Presented by eBay Motors. Event held rain or shine.

Info: 717-243-7855; CarlisleEvents.com

April 22 (Saturday)

Sentimental Cruises & Barnegat Recreation

Car & Truck Show 2022

Rain date: April 23

9am-2pm

Brackman Middle School, 600 Barnegat Blvd.North, Barnegat, NJ 08005

Dash plaques, music, food, trophies for Top 25, Best Car, Bet Truck, Mayor’s, Sponsor, People’s Choice.

Info: sentimentalcruiserscc@gmail.com; 609-971-6351

April 22 (Saturday)

2023 Spring Kick-Off Car Show

Rain date: April 23

Chickie & Pete’s, English Creek Shopping Center, 6055 E. Black Horse Pike, Egg Harbor Township, NJ 10am-3pm

Sponsored by the South Jersey Mopar Connection. Open to all makes and models of cars and trucks. Registration from 9-11am. Day of show registration fee: $20. DJ, trophies at 2:30 pm, dash plaques to first 100 cars, discount food coupons, door prizes.

Info: 609-226-3814

April 23 (Sunday)

Hot Rod Garage’s Car Show Fundraiser

Rain date: April 30

Rack’s Bar & Grill, 2021 North Black Horse Pike, Williamstown, NJ 08094 10am-2pm

Any style car, truck or motorcycle welcome. Registration from 9-11am; $20 per vehicle. Breakfast specials, 50/50, t-shirts, ticket auction raffle, trophies awarded. Benefits St. Baldrick’s Foundation

Info: text 717-701-9923

April 29 (Saturday)

15th Annual Classic Car Show

Rain date: April 30

Olde Stone House Village, 208 Egg Harbor Road, Sewell, NJ 08080 10am-2pm

13 classes of trophies, including Chairman’s Choice, Best in Show and Best Club

Participation. Music, food, basket auction, historic house tours. Dash plaques to first 100 registered cars. Free to spectators.

Registration from 8:30-10am at the railroad station. Registration fee for vehicles- $15 before April 15th, $20 day of show.

Info: 856-981-3096; OldeStoneHouseHistoricVillage.org

STREET RODS / MUSCLE C ARS • CUSTOMS / DE TAILING

ENGINE & INTERIOR WIRING • PARTIAL / FULL RESTOR ATION

CUSTOM BODYWORK & PAINT • CHASSIS MODIFIC ATIONS

210 CLINTON AVENUE • PITMAN, NJ 08071

EDWARD BUELOW • P: 856-228-ROD1 • F. 856-582-5770

www.rod1shop.com

EVENT LISTINGS

April 29 (Saturday)

VFW Spring Car Show

Rain date: April 30

VFW Post 6027, 815 Turkey Point Road, North East, MD 21901

10am-3pm

Cost: $18 pre-registration by April 22; $20 day of show. Awards given after ballots are counted. 11 classes of vehicles, 22 Trophies plus 1 Best of Show, Truck Class and also VFW Post 6027 Commander’s Choice Award. The VFW is a non-profit charity that supports our veterans and local charities.

Info: Bruce Edwards at 410-642-2847, 443-206-1588 (cell); Bruceqmstr@aol.com

April 29 & 30 (Saturday & Sunday)

Del Rods Car Show at Dover International Speedway- Pre-Registration Shows

Dover International Speedway, Leipsic Road, Dover, DE 19904

Sat: 9am-1pm

These are Pre-registration only shows.

Registration: $25. Registration includes two (2) tickets to the NASCAR races that day. Info: Rich Selg 302-674-5365; rsludge47@aol.com; delrodscarclub.org

April 29 (Saturday)

Ronson Burton Swap Meet

Speedway- Pre-Registration Shows

20298 Cool Spring Rd., Milton, DE

Sat: 9am-3pm

Nova, VW, Camaro and miscellaneous parts, wheels & tires

Info: 302-381-5436

May 6 (Sunday)

Annual Spring Fling Show

Western Tire & Auto, 1406 Main Street, Stevensville, MD 21666 9am-2pm

Open to all vehicles. Everyone is welcome. Top awards by year/class. $15 registration fee. $2 toll rebate for western shore folks! Cash door prizes at trophy time. Must be present to win! Charity lunch benefit, store specials, 50/50. Info: 410-643-5572; kentislandcruisers.com

May 6 (Saturday)

Draggin Wagons Car, Truck & Bike Show

Honeybrook Gardens, 3940 Horseshoe Pike, Honey Brook, PA 19344 10am-2pm

Check Facebook for any changes, $15 vehicle registration at gate. Category plaques awarded and Club President’s Choice, music, 50/50, gift basket raffle, food & drink. All proceeds support local charities in the tricounty area. Please bring a non-perishable food donation.

May 6 (Saturday)

Annual Galloway Classic Car Show

Rain date: May 7

Galloway Township Municipal Complex, 300 E. Jim Leeds Road, Galloway, NJ 08205 10am-2pm

Trophies, plaques to the first 50 participants, free admission to the public. All classic car owners invited to participate. On-site registration $5 donation.

Info: Jim Thompson 609-338-7574

May 6 (Saturday)

3rd Annual Mustang & Ford Show Medford Ford, 186 E. Route 70, Medford, NJ 08055

9am–3pm

Sponsored by the South Jersey Mustang Club. Raising money for MD Anderson Cooper Cancer Center. Trophies for the top 40, including Best of Show and Specialty Awards. Open to all Ford-powered/bodied cars. Food concessions, 50/50, music.

Info: Terri Smith 856-339-9706; southjerseymustangclub.net

May 7 (Sunday)

70th Annual Collectible Car Show

Nielsen Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram 174 NJ Route 10, East Hanover, NJ 9am-4pm

New Jersey Region of the Antique Automobile Club of America’s 69th Annual Collectible Car Show with a Swap Meet and Vendors. Vehicles 25 years or older will be judged. People’s choice awards for Modified Vehicles thru 1997 and Modern Classics 1998 or newer. Info: Vince DeLisi: 908-803-1570

May 7 (Sunday)

Bob Powell Memorial Car Show

Rain date: May 21

Millville Volunteer Fire Company Station #2, Omar Rd., Frankford, DE 19945 10am-2pm

Best overall winner will receive trophy & $1,000 cash prize. Music, food, 50/50, door prizes, auction. Registration begins 8am. $10 fee. Vendors $10.

Info: Jack Melson 302-381-8395; millville84.com

May 12- 13 (Friday-Saturday)

Carlisle Import & Performance Nationals

Carlisle Fairgrounds, 100 Bryn Mawr Road, Carlisle, PA 17013 Fri & Sat: 7am-6pm; Sun: 7am-12pm Kids under 12 free! Event held rain or shine. Info: 717-243-7855

CarlisleEvents.com

May 13 (Saturday)

2nd Annual Life Worth Living

Big Jim Edwards Automotive Show

Rain date: May 14

2 E. Commerce St. Bridgeton, NJ 08302 10am-2pm

Over 75 trophies to be awarded. Best in Show, Most Original, Best Paint Job, People’s Choice, Kid’s Choice & more. Categories include jeeps, trucks, imports classic, America, Harley Davidson race bikes, cruisers, baggers.

Registration fee: $10 per vehicle starting 8am.

Info: R. Todd Edwards rtoddedwards@gmail.com; 856-207-3070

May 13 (Saturday)

27th Delaware Redmen Benefit

Car, Truck & Tractor Show

First State Chevrolet

300 S. DuPont Hwy., Georgetown, DE 9am-3pm

Trophies for Best Car, Best Truck, Best Tractor. Live auction at noon. Food available.

Registration $10.

Info: Ralph McCabe 302-745-8748

May 14 (Sunday)

Rack’s Woman-Owned Car Show

Rain date: May 21

Rack’s Bar & Grill, 2021 North Black Horse Pike, Williamstown, NJ 08094

10am-2pm

Hosted by Hot Rod Garage. Trophies, Prizes, Giveaways.

Info: Dan 856-417-2669 Rackspubandgrill.com

May 21 (Sunday)

Soul Riders Auto Club’s Car Show

VFW Hall #3792, 5695 Summit Bridge Road, Townsend, DE 19734 3-7pm

Collecting new men’s and women’s socks and underwear for the homeless. Handicap

Accessible, Food, Kids, Music, Trophies. Info: 302-998-5951; comp1deej@yahoo.com

May 21 (Sunday)

First State Mustang & Ford Club

Spring Show

Porter Ford, 600 Ogletown Road, Newark, DE 19711

10am-3pm

Registration starts at 9:30 am. All cars must be Ford family and Ford powered. Charity auction, 50/50 raffle, trophies, dash plaques, food and live DJ. No refunds on registration. Pre registration fee $15; $20 day of show. Pre-register online at firststatemustangandford.com.

Info: George Long 302-218-2703; grl5252@comcast.net

May 20 (Saturday)

Chariots of Fire Car Show

Rain date: June 27

Classic Auto Mall, 6180 Morgantown Road, Morgantown, PA 19543

10am-3pm

Great variety of all vehicles. Car photos, door prizes and great food!

Info: Pastor Lawrence Weed 610-322-1622, pastorweed@hotmail.com chariots-of-fire.org

May 20 (Saturday)

LKQ Car Show

Keystone Automotive

39 Phoenix Drive, West Deptford, NJ 08086 10am-3pm

Top 50 judged show. Cost; $20 per vehicle. All makes and models- domestic and foreign cars. 50/50, basket auction, free giveaways to all registered vehicle. Food and drink available. Benefits local animal shelters and children in need. Judged by the South Jersey Camaro Car Club.

Info: Linda: 609-206-9765

May 20 (Saturday)

Car Show and Walk for Special Needs

Salem County Vo-Tech School District, 880 Route 45, Woodstown, NJ 08098 9am-1pm

$10 registration fee for vehicles; $20 registration fee for the walk (includes t-shirt). Music by 92.1FM, food trucks, craft vendors.

Info: Frank Maurer 856-769-0101 x5124 or fmaurer@sxvts.org

May 20 (Saturday)

17th Annual Spring BOPC Car Show

West Goshen Park, near ARC of Chester County, West Chester, PA 19380 9am-3pm

Presented by Delaware Valley Oldsmobile Club. All Buicks, Oldsmobiles, Pontiacs, & Cadillacs any year or condition are welcome! Dash plaques, trophies, door prizes, food nearby and 50/50. Advance registration of $15 is due by 5/14/22, $20 day of show.

(Pre-registration is non-refundable)

Info: Tom Auzkemas at 302-740-2454; dvocinfo@yahoo.com.

May 21 (Sunday)

26th Annual Ambler Auto Show

Rain or shine

Butler Avenue, Ambler, PA 19002

1-6pm

Registration opens at 11am. Awards at 5pm. Over 200 of the finest examples of autos and trucks from both yesteryear. Visitors can stroll Butler Avenue, go to the restaurants and shops or grab a bite from one of the local food vendors. Benefits Ambler Main Street.

EVENT LISTINGS

May 21 (Sunday)

50th Annual Corvette Show

Milltown American Legion, 4 John F. Kennedy Drive, Milltown, NJ 08850

9am-3pm

Presented by the Spirits of ’53 Corvette Club. Judging starts at 11am; trophies at 2:30pm. Registration is $15 in advance; $25 day of show. Benefits the Ronald McDonald House. Trophies awarded In these classes: Street Stock, Modified and Full Custom. There will also be awards for paint, engine compartment and Bet in Show. Show dash plaques to the first 100 Corvettes registered. Host cars are not included with participant class judging.

Info: spiritsof53.net

May 27 (Saturday)

Endeavor Lodge Car & Truck Show

Rain date: May 28

Hudson Fields, 29763 Eagle Crest Rd. Milton, DE 19968

9am-3pm

Benefits Shriners Hospitals for Children

Best of Show: $300. All makes models welcome. Awards to each class. Music, food trucks, 50/50. $25 entry fee. Registration: 9am Info: Rick 302-381-6817; Herb 302-750-0749

May 28 (Sunday)

42nd Mustang and Ford Car Show

Rain date: May 29

Kimberton Fairgrounds, 61 Firehouse Ln, Phoenixville, PA 19460

9am-3pm

Awards for the top vehicles in each class. President’s Award and Kid’s Choice Award. Auction, Handicap Accessible, Food, Music. Info: Robert Parsons: 215-290-3682; info@thevfmc.org

June 2-4 (Friday- Sunday)

Carlisle Ford Nationals

Carlisle Fairgrounds, 1000 Bryn Mawr Road, Carlisle, PA 17013

Fri- Sat: 7am-6pm; Sun: 7am-12pm

Presented by Meguiar’s. Kids under 12 free! Event held rain or shine.

Info: 717-243-7855

CarlisleEvents.com

June 3 (Saturday)

26th Eastern Shore Corvette Club Show

Redmen Lodge #149

Rt. 14 & Clyde Ave., Fruitland, MD. 9am-3pm

Open to all car, motorcycles & special interest vehicles. Dash plaques, 50/50, goodie bags, live auction. Benefits Operation We Care $20 registration (9am-noon).

Info: EasternShoreCorvetteClub.org

June 3 (Saturday)

Pittsville Strawberry Festival Car Show Pittsville Park at Railroad Avenue Salisbury, Md. 21802

9am-3pm

Presented by Wheels That Heal Registration opens 9am, trophies at 2:30pm Benefits Cruise for a Cause

Info: WheelsThatHeal.org

June 10 (Saturday)

Annual Cruise Down Memory Lane 603 E. Landis Avenue, Vineland, NJ 08360

5-9pm

Stroll The Avenue, enjoy the show, visit the merchants! Open to all domestic vehicles 1974 and older. Free admission.

More Info: Marvin Askins: 856-697-6306

Cars are priced to move at the Carlisle Auctions.

KEEP AMERICA BEAUTIFUL AFFILIATE

SHIFTIN’ GEARS

By Ben Notaro • red63vetnj@comcast.net

Let me start off with a much-belated Happy New Year. Ok, now let’s get to my thoughts and words of wisdom for the first column of the New Year.

While looking at television and soaking up the various car commercials — you know — the ones that talk about everything but the car they are trying to make you want to purchase. Well, anyway, I started to realize that I and many of us “old timers” grew up in a time when you knew a car and po=wer ranking by its name and not a bunch of letters and numbers.

To start, if you were into a big and fast car, just listen to the names, they sound fast. The Chevelle Super Sport; it was a large, displacement-engine kind of ride and SS made one aware of that. The Plymouth Roadrunner and Dodge Superbee gave people the distinct feeling of a special breed of car. There were many others like the Cobra and Corvette, where names were simple and performance oriented. Yes, some companies used letters or numbers such as the Oldsmobile 442, GTO and a few others to make a statement. But they did not run the alphabet into the ground with so many letters and numbers for a car designation that you had to think a bit harder to know what the make of the car was — not just a bunch of funky combinations of the alphabet and numbers.

Let me provide a few examples of the names of rides that have these non-names and you can judge for yourself how cars are seemingly losing that identity to the age of name plates.

• Honda CRX HF

• Mercedes –Benz 560 SL

• Porsche 9285 4

• BMW 3, 4, 5 Series X1, X2, X3

• Cadillac CT4, XT, XT5

These are just a few cars that many people may have difficulty figuring out how these letters and numbers make for a quick interpretation of what the car is about. Also, for your information, I owned a Datsun 280 ZX and I still don’t know what the ZX meant (LOL).

For the record, many of these names and numbers do have factory significance and are not just thrown together. I just like to remind people of the good old days when there was simplicity in a car name. As with many facets of the ever-evolving automobile industry, everything is always subject to change.

Department of Energy: It’s only a matter of time before army tanks go EV.

Department of Education: Let’s teach the history of classic rides to the next generation.

Department of Good Corrections: Double check all event flyers for date and info corrections before announcing.

Here’s to enjoying our cruisin’ hobby in 2023.

CRUISING 101

Hi gang, show season is here, starting with Salem County Fair Grounds and going all the way to “Flemming’s” in the fall. It’s time to dig out the cars, do some tuning, change some fluids, and put on a good wax job. A lot of thinking will have to be done as events aren’t as easy as they used to be. There used to be a cut-off with the ‘73 cars (cat converters), but now the whole muscle-car class needs re-inventing with 1200 HP Mustangs, 800 HP Challengers and, of course, trucks. So many classes, so few judges, who needs the grief? I mean, it’s easy to get a specialty judge (such as Corvettes ‘68 to ‘73), but what about all the others? Good luck!

There was a time when you would be out working in the yard, hear a vehicle coming, and you would know the vehicle by the sound. Nowadays, you hear trucks or GT Mustangs, Harleys and the rare street rod, they are the only “noise makers.” The new electric vehicles, even a 700-HP Corvette, are quiet. When I was working at a dealership, we used to scare the daylights out of people by coming from behind with a hybrid with not even a WHIRRRRRRR. I was next to a Tesla and an electric Mustang the other day, yeah, they’re fast … but no rumble. “Loud Pipes, Save Lives!” I can’t imagine creating show classes for electric vehicles because it seems all manufactures are going that way. But still, no George Jetson flying car.

By the time you class the classics, street rods, muscle cars, trucks, specialty vehicles and foreign cars, it’s just too many to deal with. A cruise seems to be just a lot easier. For those who won’t bring out their “babies” except for a trophy show, give them the location of the local trophy store. They cost $20.

The upcoming season will have many challenges, to say the least. I’m betting on another hot and dry summer. Get out the water bottles and offer some SHADE! Don’t forget us “old” people by providing handicap parking. And my biggest gripes: An event held at a local ice cream/soda pop store with not enough staff to serve the crowd or a portable toilet that looks like a volcano by the end of the day. Your guest won’t come back if waiting in lines is a big part of their day. As host, you have the responsibility, so keep in mind these things. Also try thanking people for attending.

Don’t forget, you can submit your upcoming events at CruisingMagazine.net.

See you at the events,

For those who need to send me information, please forward to:

Larry Lazareff

Larry Lazareff 1920 S. Delsea Dr. Unit #6 Vineland, NJ 08360