Wheels Of Thunder Magazine June 2013

Vol. 4 Issue 6

J U NE 2 01 3

Page 4

Page 36

Page 20 Page 48

Page 2

Find us on Facebook “Wheels of Thunder”

June 2013

OWNER PRESIDENT – Scott Robinson scott@wheelsofthunder.net 612-730-3719

OFFICE STAFF AR/AP – Stacy Robinson 763-421-4400 OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR/AR – Vince Griffith vince@wheelsofthunder.net 651-280-8658 JUNIOR BOSS – Zack Robinson 763-421-4400

EDITORIAL STAFF EDITOR/CREATIVE DIRECTOR Betty Schurmann editor@wheelsofthunder.net 763-421-4400

Page 52

Chopper’s – A book with no end ...................4 Hare Scrambles ..........................................20

Mark Martino.............................................44

Photographers/Writers CEAJA PHILP TOM EDWARDS JESSICA KANKE JENNA OSTERLUND MATT PETERSON MYLIE LAVOLD KIM NILES JOHN LENTZKOW JOHN KRUEGER STEVE CASPER

Torquefest 13..............................................52

Reviews Page 38

BIR ............................................................16

Kansas City Speedway ................................36

NORTHERN SALES – Scott Robinson scott@wheelsofthunder.net 612-730-3719

SUBSCRIPTIONS $34.99 - PHONE: 763-421-4400 www.wheelsofthunder.net All content published herein is owned exclusively by Midwest Wheels of Thunder Magazine. Reproduction or further dissemination of the content herein is strictly prohibited without the express written authorization of Midwest Wheels of Thunder Magazine.

June 2013

Classic Car Room........................................28

Rally’s & Shows

ADVERTISING STAFF

SOUTHERN SALES - John Lentzkow John.lentzkow@mchsi.com 319-239-1375

Special Features

Princeton Speedway ...................................38

BRRP ..........................................................48

Departments Page 46

Garage Built.................................................8 DZL Dose....................................................12 Calendar ....................................................34

ABATE of MN.............................................47

Game On!..................................................56

www.WheelsofThunder.net

Page 3

I

'm guessing you may wonder what a 'book' has to do with custom restorations. Well, from my few years meeting, knowing, and seeing the incredible projects coming out of Chopper's Rods & Customs Restoration out of Princeton, Minnesota, I have tried to understand and write in my words all he has to offer. I seem to fall short every time. I thought maybe I would try again and ask for his help. As we found out, his knowledge and experience just can't be documented. It was an amazing sight as I would mention

Page 4

Find us on Facebook “Wheels of Thunder�

a make, model, year and you could just see the mental checklist instantly taking form in Chopper's head.

All of the 'normal issues' that could happen, the endless possibilities, the attention to every detail. As fast as I could think of one, he would have a response, not running to grab a manual or book, just from the mass amount of experience. When I said, 'Chopper, you should write a book." We both laughed and realized it would almost be impossible. He says cars are like people, they all have their own personality traits.

June 2013

Chopper’s

Rods & Customs Restoration Written by Ceaja Philp

For example, my Dad has a '56 Chevy he is working on, and during a visit to the shop there were two of the 3 Tri-5s (as Chopper refers to them), I had to ask his thoughts about those cars. I would have never imagined the amount of knowledge I would so quickly gain. Everything from suspension set up to what Chopper called the 'mid-life pregnancy' with the 2 door hard tops. He had ideas and solutions for every

inch, and I couldn't wait to share just a small portion of that with my Dad. That also brought me back to the first time I met Chopper in person. How many times have you heard that you only have one chance to make a first impression? This is one thing that Chopper's Rods & Customs & Restorations will never have to worry about. I had never met Chopper, been to his shop, and chose to visit him without prior research about his company online. I wanted this to be a testament of the old saying to see if it could still hold true in today's world.

As I drove to the shop in Princeton, I thought about the many places I had visited before and how many claimed to do restorations or build hot rods and do custom work. Many times I had been let down by hearing one thing and finding out another. As my GPS guided me closer I cleared those images and wanted to let the work speak for itself. I took my final turn and right away the front windows and door of the shop put a smile on my face. There were full, colorful view through graphics showcasing hot rods, muscle cars, and classic cars as you pulled in.

I slowly opened the front door and found myself in a room that showed a true passion for expression. The walls were precision painted and had decal work with cars and flames. There were nicely organized acrylic cases all nicely hung on the walls displaying diecasts of

June 2013

www.WheelsofThunder.net

Page 5

passion for something and take the chance on jeopardizing your name by taking short cuts and doing less for others than you would do for yourself? Actually Chopper said, "I often even find myself doing even more than expected, which is what makes the difference when it comes to being 'best in show'." Even when his customers say, "Just make it look 'Ok'"...he will not allow himself to do less than perfect.

Chopper wants to take your project from complete tear down to final detailing. He made a great point when he said, "The buck stops here!" What a true expression for showing his passion to his industry. By taking the complete project there is never a chance someone can mess with the schedule or blame another person for an error. Chopper is completely confident in the entire process and wants you to feel the same. That being said, he has had his share of 'fixes' that end up on his doorstep, but again, he is proud to say he creates repeat customers when they finally find their shop that spares no details.

NASCAR, NHRA, hot rods, muscle cars, antique cars, trucks and motorcycles. A vision I have wanted in my own home many times. As I looked at the numerous trophies I kept seeing the same thing on them; 'Spectators Choice', 'Best Street Machine', and countless 'Best of Show'. I was able to take all of this in during a very short period of time, and my first impression was already forming, but could the next step into the shop area keep it going?

Just as I was about to move my way to the shop garage door to introduce myself to whoever I heard moving back there I heard a sound that made my heart race and made me stop moving.

I had no idea what it was coming from, only that it had massive horsepower not skipping a beat as the RPMs were brought up. Then a few seconds later I could smell the high octane race fuel. The rumble stopped and I just stood there taking in the smell and sound I had just experienced.

was nothing! Nothing out of place, nothing hacked together, not a short cut anywhere!

Finally I was able to get my attention off the car and start digging into who Chopper was and how this business was created. I will admit, he had definitely made a first impression and a long lasting one!

Chopper is adamant about being honest, from his first project to every detail on his current ones! He remembers his first restoration and admits being scared to death, keep in mind he has been self taught from day one. It was a 1955 Ford Thunderbird and it took about 2 years from start to finish. Another thing Chopper was very dedicated to was his vow to never do anything with a 'good enough' attitude. As he explained to me, why would you have such a

The times I have spent at the shop and speaking with Chopper via phone have never seemed to be enough. There is always so much more I want to hear and see. The same goes for his current customers. It seems some of them barely get one project out the door and are searching to bring him the next. He has built a reputation of honesty, integrity, loyalty to his craft, and created a shop that takes care of your every need for restoration or creating a true custom.

I asked Chopper what he felt the key to his success has been, which he replied, "It's something I truly love doing! If you have a true passion for what you do, it will show in your work."

Chopper was also proud to say Mike Grundeen, who has been with him since 1993 has been a very large part of why things continue to run so

In walked Fred Brightman, better known as 'Chopper'. He apologized for the cloud I was enjoying and opened a few shops doors to clear the air quickly. I quickly let him know there was no apology necessary and I was more interested in seeing where it had came from. I scanned the first room and saw three cars in process; a '55 Chevy, a '56 Chevy, and a Corvette in the paint room so I knew it wasn't them. To the left I quickly caught view of a '41 Willy, but that was also in process. As we walked into another bay it became obvious what had made that beautiful sound. There in front of me was a breathtaking orange 1966 Sting Ray with golden toned ghost flames, and a 540ci with an 871 Blower Shop blower sticking out of the hood. After the initial shock was over I found myself slowly walking around the car looking at the paint, interior, engine, tires, and with each area I kept finding the same thing.....which

Page 6

Find us on Facebook “Wheels of Thunder�

June 2013

though he has many years of experience and says he has no plans on ever stopping!

smoothly at the shop. He said he was lucky enough to find someone just as meticulous and who takes as much pride in his work as himself.

I will say with no doubt that if you are looking for a place for restoration or custom work, then look no more. With Chopper's Rods & Cus-

June 2013

toms & Restorations, you have found your Der Kobblers. You will find those words on some of Chopper's builds and has been called that by many who have crossed his path. It means 'The Craftsman' in German. Chopper is a humble man who admits he is always learning even

To end this visit I was able to see one of the most perfect blacks ever laid down....and on a 1962 Corvette to top it off! The car belongs to Chopper's brother-in-law who has owned it for many years. Chopper laughed when he said Charlie keeps everything. Charlie had always wanted to build a car he never had so he started on the project himself. After the many hours and stress of getting those body lines of the corvette streamline, he had had enough. The curves of the car were turned over to Chopper along with the chassis. The two spent time together as Charlie, admittedly not a 'car guy' did a great job assembling it back together piece by piece. 'Charlie loves cars,' said Chopper and now he can take extra pride in what he will be spending hours cruising in. They set in a 383 Stroker and a TKO 5-speed. Premier Auto Upholstery out of Rogers, Minnesota did the camo (light tan) color leather interior. Keep your eyes peeled at this year's Back to the 50s, as you will be able to catch a close up view of the craftsmanship for yourself.

Visit http://choppersrodsandcustoms.com to see more projects and more information on how they can help you create a ride you will be proud of.

www.WheelsofThunder.net

Page 7

Lukawski 1940 Ford Coupe Deluxe Car

“4 U Pops!”

In 2000, William was diagnosed with cancer and was in and out of the hospital. Through the hospital visits J recalls that when it seemed his dad was at a low he would mention the latest updates for their project, which he said would lighten his father’s spirits. Sadly William’s battle with cancer ended with his passing on March 10th, 2001.

Even though he was not able to finish the 1940 Ford Coupe project himself, J and his family made a promise to him that the car would be completed as he had wished.

They did just that!

Written by Ceaja Philp

Stock Original This is where it all started!

Sound Familiar?

Do you have a story of your custom ride? E-mail editor@wheelsofthunder.net and you could be featured with your ride in the next issue!

Page 8

Find us on Facebook “Wheels of Thunder”

June 2013

A dark alley in South Minneapolis, MN, sitting next to a burn barrel sure doesn’t sound like great place to be for a diamond in the rough. In 1964, William Lukawski recognized the same thing, gave the owner $40 and brought home his project car. It was a chore just to get the 1940 Ford Coupe Deluxe home that day, with missing floor boards and trying to keep from falling through what was left of them as he shifted the gears.

Lukawski got his Coupe together and raced it in the late 1960s and early 1970s.

The Ford has seen many different engines under its hood, including a 283, 327 and a few 350s. After the birth of their son, J in 1969 and his daughter Terri, in 1971, the Ford Coupe became a daily driver, running errands, getting groceries, going to work and so on through the late 70s and early 80s.

In 1994, J and his dad decided to start a complete restore on the ‘family car’. This time it was to have things such as air conditioning, new interior (now that the kids were ‘ice cream safe’), power windows, brakes and more.

They were excited to take the car in to have it dipped (an acid process to rid all the old paint, rust, etc). Excited until they saw the car afterwards and realized

June 2013

a lot of the car was now gone. The project then became bigger with having to put in a new floor, firewall and other parts that came up missing after the process had been done.

They continued working on the Coupe on and off while working on other cars along the way for the next 5 years.

With the help of Julianne Lukawski, J’s mother, with how she felt her husband would have liked to see the Coupe complete, they were able to get it done the very morning of the 2003 GSTA show.

They rolled it out of the shop and to the show. It was a very happy moment for the entire family. The 1940 Ford Coupe that had been a part of their lives for so many years was sitting on the show room floor as an entry.

The beautiful Coupe was nominated for Street Rod of the Year by MSRA in 2003 (only 12 are chosen and voted on through the year). It was again nominated in 2005, but this time won, and throughout 2006 it was celebrated as MSRA’s Street Rod of the Year.

Another award that stands out to the family is the Silver Hacksaw Award, given out by the Twin Cities Roadsters. It was given to them at the MSRA event in 2004.

This award is given to a non-member

with a pre-1949 closed car that they feel would be ‘the perfect car…if you cut the top off’, as they are a convertible group.

J is proud to say they hold many other awards with their ‘family car’ and his mother drives this car still today.

There is so much care and love that has been put into the completion of the Lukawski’s prize 1940 Ford Coupe. Even the license plate expresses their love for the man who holds the most special place in their hearts, which reads, “4U POPS”.

Today, their 1940 Ford Coupe features a 1967 Corvette 327 with 425hp, 700R4 transmission with overdrive, 9” Ford rear end with 355gears, paint by Unique Body and Paint, interior by Bill’s Auto Trim and such luxuries such as power windows, power seats, cruise control, stereo system, and A/C. The body has been modified by shortening the bumpers, hidden handles with poppers for the doors and trunk, and the hood has been ‘nosed’ with 2 ½ inches cut out.

There is no doubt meeting J and his mother at this year’s 2010 GSTA, the blue flamed 1940 Ford Coupe Deluxe will be passed from generation to generation with great pride and a wonderful story to tell.

www.WheelsofThunder.net

Page 9

Written by Rev Dzl We are finally in the throes of the summer season.

Hopefully by now you’ve had some opportunity to enjoy some of your good weather pastimes, hobbies and passions. This time of year leads to the inevitable turning of wrenches among those of us in the motorsports world. This leads me to this month’s topic, “Built not Bought.”

Whether your mission is to fix that which is broken or to modify and enhance that which we own there is something entirely therapeutic about twisting wrenches, torqueing bolts or laying the bead on the perfect weld. As a kid I realized quickly that stock didn’t rock. The cool guys in racing all had stickers of the brands they ran on their fenders and back windows.

It started by adding a DG pipe to my ATC110 when I was 8, low pro tires and exhaust on an ATC185S, progressing to full carb and cam setups along with tires, seats, fenders, air cleaners, axle extenders, etc. on a 200X that I ultimately put on the track at the age of 11. There was a real feeling of Christmas morning when the boxes or a new issue of Dirt Wheels would arrive to see what else could be done to trick out my rides.

Naturally this curiosity of just how far can you push a project lead to modifications on off road race bikes and finally cars and trucks. At age 13 I tackled what would be one of my all-time favorite and most formative builds, a 1976 Buick Skylark that would be stuffed with a Pontiac 400 engine of our building. Of course this car was not meant to house an engine much less a built and bored version packed with Performance Automotive Wholesale parts but we had committed to it and it would be road worthy in time for my 15th birthday. On a handmade, school shop class built engine stand and with a ton of help from an extremely talented neighbor and somewhat patient father, the monster took shape. From this endeavor I had gained the skills in both mechanics and fabrication to spur on a lifetime passion for motorsports.

age to the best of my skill level and learning infinite lessons of what to do and what not to do on future builds was perhaps one of the more valuable life lessons a young man could learn. The blood, sweat and tears associated with that build lead to about 10-15 additional projects since then some of which have been magazine features, placed into collections in Japan and even one on display at Beam Global in Chicago. Through all the years of working and building I still have to say the ones I look most forward to are the ones yet to come.

There’s something special about the connections and bonds created with family and friends as you work toward a common goal of this nature. Some of the best times of my youth were spent in my dad’s shop together torching, welding and grinding on parts that were needed to fill a void in a build and the conversations and discussions needed to solve those riddles.

Now as I raise a son and daughter of my own I longingly anticipate the day that they join me in the shop and want help with such projects. The curiosity about customization seems to be falling squarely on them both…there’s already been discussions about custom paint schemes for bicycles, thoughts of what to do with this take off piece or that and the dreaded discussion of that first car.

The point is this; building mechanically with others is an amazing bonding process with which little can compare. Find a project, get in the shop, basement or wherever your work space is and start building something you are proud to call yours. The experience of building to your skill level and challenging yourself to gain the skills necessary to create something worthwhile is what makes relationships work.

Who knows that project you tackle may just end up in these pages to be shared with others. The ultimate sense of pride from being able to say, “We built that!”

Piece and Axle Grease til We Meet Again, Partners…Dzl

Having had a great experience in building at an early

Page 12

Find us on Facebook “Wheels of Thunder”

June 2013

Page 14

Find us on Facebook “Wheels of Thunder”

June 2013

June 2013

www.WheelsofThunder.net

Page 15

F

or 27 years, the NAPA Auto Parts Show & Go at Brainerd International Raceway has been a Fourth of July tradition for race fans and their families. This year will be no different, as BIR offers a full weekend of racing and extra activities that keep people coming back year after year.

Show & Go, July 4-7, has always been one of BIR’s most popular events, and for good reason.

Where else can you get mind-blowing drag racing, insane Superbike racing, a classic car show, fireworks, live music and activities for the kids, all for the price of a single ticket?

One of the keys to the event’s success has been the all-in-one family entertainment component that makes it a great value. It’s easy to burn an entire day – or weekend for that matter – at BIR during the Show & Go because there’s so much to see and do, for all ages.

Page 16

Find us on Facebook “Wheels of Thunder”

June 2013

Written by Geoff Gorvin

On the drag strip, fans can get a ringside seat to some of the most exciting heads-up drag racing in the Upper Midwest. The first one to the finish line wins, and that means cars can be hurling down the track at over 200 mph, with times south of 7 seconds for the quarter mile. The best part for most fans is that these are muscle cars rumbling down the track: Mustangs, Novas, GTOs, Camaros, Corvettes, Chargers, etc. Everyone has a connection to these cars, and watching them tear down the track while packing giant horsepower under the hood is a real treat for the nostalgic race fan.

About 400 cars are expected this year, and they’ll be racing in 21 different classes. At center stage, though is the seven Heads Up Classes, which are typically the fastest cars at the event. A new class, Outlaw 660, is for quick cars that race on a 1/8-mile track.

It’s a class that’s gaining popularity throughout the country because the cars get up to high speeds so quickly.

High speeds is the name of the game on BIR’s 2.5-mile Competition Road Course this weekend as well. The Central Roadracing Association is bringing Superbike racing to the track again, showing fans how racers can fly around the track on two wheels and a knee. The races for most of the different classes – Supersport, Superbike, Grand Prix – are eight laps, but the Show & Go features the Three-hour Team Challenge, where teams of racers take on the track for a three-hour endurance race.

That starts at 3 p.m. Saturday.

Off the track, a classic car show is Saturday in front of BIR’s brick condos. A fireworks display is Saturday night along with live music by Junk FM, a popular band that covers bands like Maroon 5, Weezer, The Black Keys, No Doubt, Michael Jackson, The Cars and more. Junk FM will play in BIR’s Wheelie Bar & Grille – no cover charge.

“The NAPA Auto Parts Show & Go has always been one of our most popular events,” BIR Owner Jed Copham said. “Part of its appeal is that we’ve got so much going on to entertain the fans, even the kids. And with our on-site camping, you get a really affordable weekend with the chance to seen some great racing.”

Racing starts daily at 9 a.m. Tickets are available at the gate. Daily admission is $25; kids 12 and under are free. On-site camping is free with the purchase of a multi-day ticket. www.WheelsofThunder.net

Page 17

stunt competition. It’s Simply Street Bike’s Kickoff Event, featuring Whisper Performance’s 2nd Annual Midwest Stunt Fest, pit bike races, a dyno trailer, rides and a lot more.

TURBO WEEKEND If imports and sport compacts are your thing, you’ll want to be at BIR June 21-23 for the first of two weekends for the Modern Automotive Performance Proving Grounds. The event features drag racing, drifting and autocross competition, open lapping on the road course, music and more.

WET & WILD WEEKEND BIR is hosting International Watercross Association racing again this year. The IWA will be at BIR two weekends – June 14-16 and Sept. 13-15 – for two days of crazy snowmobile racing on open water. Yes, you read that right. The IWA will be on Lake BIR for drag racing (first sled that gets from one shoreline to the other wins) and oval racing, where heats of three or four racers make several laps around floating buoys.

As you’d expect, snowmobiles don’t float,

Page 18

so when they lose their momentum, down they go. The Rescue Pontoon plucks them out of the lake between races and the sled is back in action in no time.

During the June 14-16 weekend, the CRA will be back with more Superbike Racing, only this weekend racers will be testing themselves against the 3.1-mile Donnybrook Road Course, BIR’s original track with mile-long straightaway. While the Superbikes are flying around the track, stunt bikes will be wowing the crowds during a

Find us on Facebook “Wheels of Thunder”

The Proving Grounds is quickly becoming one of the more popular events on BIR’s schedule. Much of this popularity is due to the drifting competition, where drivers speed through a course while in controlled – or sometimes uncontrolled – skids.

Think of the movie “Fast and Furious – Tokyo Drift.” This isn’t just a spectator event, though. Novice drivers can try their hand at some or all of these events as well.

Visit BIR’s website for more details.

For more information, visit www.BrainerdRaceway.com, or call 1-866-444-4455.

June 2013

June 2013

www.WheelsofThunder.net

Page 19

Written and photographed

by Keith McKenna

M

ay 12th District 23 Hare Scrambles race was held under sunny and cool conditions at Spring Creek Motocross Park in picturesque Millville MN, on a beautifully prepared racecourse comprized of deep sand, glass smooth grass track, tight woods steep hills and a championship caliber motocross track.

Colton Reschke rider #125 1st place Premier class Page 20

Find us on Facebook “Wheels of Thunder�

The morning races saw KTM mounted #125 Colton Reschke lead from start to finish in the Premier Class with KTM mounted Miranda Tweeton taking the victory in the Girls 9-15 Class.

June 2013

From the start of the race Team Northstar Off-Road Husquvarna mounted rider# 63 Nate Federer continued on his winning ways, just as he had done all last season. At the drop of the green flag Nate came out fighting with Honda CRF mounted #11 Dylan Debel in tow.

Lane Armstrong rider #1506 1st place C-overall The C-Class overall went to Lane Armstrong as well as the 250-C class victory on his beautifully prepared Kawasaki KX 250 in a flag to flag win, with Mitchell Thelen on his KTM taking second overall and first in the 200C class.

The Women s C-Class saw Yamaha mounted #911 Mary Schreiner on the top step of the podium with KTM mounted Kristi Grote a close second.

For the afternoon the AA, A and B class riders were greeted with sun and temps in the 50 s.

Dylan Debel rider #11 2nd place AA class Federer would never be challenged for the lead as he cruzed to an easy victory with #11 Debel coming in second almost 2 minutes behind on a track with some very high speed grass sections that would see the top riders snaking around the giant hay bales tappedout in top gear.

Joe Lewis rider #1565 1st place 250C-class All in all, a great day of racing on Mothers Day 2013 with all racers making it to the finish line safely, (makin Mama happy).

Sarah Stronczer rider#499 9th place Womens C-class June 2013

Next Race in the Dist 23 Hare Scramble Series is on June 9th in Carver MN. www.WheelsofThunder.net

Page 21

MN District 23 Hare Scrambles Off−Road Motorcycle Racing Series,

Cora Reschke rider #617 7th place Macro class

Kyle Savelkoul rider #934 6th place open A class

Kevin Plazak rider #292 5th place 250-A class

Johnathan Acker rider #90 3rd place 250A class

Tony Blake rider #381 8th place vet-B class (30+)

Craig Anderson rider #43 5th place Super Senior A-class (50+)

Jack Lane IV rider# 177 5th place AA class

Luke Wilder rider #27 7th place AA Class

Pat Adrian rider #334 10th place open A class

Page 22

Find us on Facebook “Wheels of Thunder”

June 2013

held at Spring Creek Motocross Park in Millville MN on May 12

Chuck Vincent rider # 978 10th place Vet-A class (30+)

Todd Sigfrid rider #2355 3rd place Senior A-class

Matt Schmidt #189 1st place 250-B class

Justin Medes rider #929 7th place 250-B class

Justin Medes rider #929 7th place 250-B class June 2013

www.WheelsofThunder.net

Page 23

June 2013

www.WheelsofThunder.net

Page 25

SPRING WHEEL MORE PACKAGES AVAILABLE – CALL FOR MORE OPTIONS

R-5

(fits Jaguar, Lincoln LS and more)

Size: 20x10, 20x8.5 Bolt Pattern: 5x108 Offset: 40, 42

299

$

Willow (fits VW, Audi,

Shilo

diamonte

Fits RWD Dodge Challenger / Charger / Magnum / Nitro, RWD Chrysler 300, Ford Explorer, and more

(fits most FWD cars) (fits most FWD cars)

Mercedes)

Size: 20x8.5 Bolt Pattern: 5x112 Offset: 35

149

$

Size: 20x8.5 Bolt Pattern: 5x4.5, 5x127 Offset: 38

circuit

Shilo

Shilo

venom

Size: 22x9.5 Bolt Pattern: 5x115 Offset: 15

Size: 22x9.5 Bolt Pattern: 5x115 Offset: 15

Size: 24x9.5 Bolt Pattern: 5x115 Offset: 15

Size: 24x9.5 Bolt Pattern: 5x4.5 Offset: 12

Size: 20x8.5 Bolt Pattern: 5x4.5, 5x112 Offset: 40

129

$

169

$

219

$

179

$

149

$

179

$

Generate 5 Whitley Squalo Armageddon (fits C6 Z06 Corvette) (fits many Jaguar, (fits many Mercedes, (fits many Volkswagen, Lincoln, & Ford cars)

Audi, & new Camaro)

Audi, and Mercedes)

ar894

Size: 19x12, 19x9.5 Bolt Pattern: 5x4.75 Offset:

499

$

Size: 18x8.5 Bolt Pattern: 5x4.25 Offset: 42

325

$

Size: 20x10, 20x8.5 Bolt Pattern: 5x112, 5x120 Offset:

Size: 18x7.5 Bolt Pattern: 5x112, 5x100 Offset: 45

149

$

99

$

Size: 22x9 Bolt Pattern: 6x135 Offset: 15

Fits Ford F-150, Expedition, Lincoln Navigator

269

$

751c

slide

advocate

lx-10

Size: 22x9.5 Bolt Pattern: 6x135 Offset: 35

Size: 20x8.5 Bolt Pattern: 6x135 Offset: 10

Size: 24x10 Bolt Pattern: 6x135 Offset: 25

Size: 24x9.5 Bolt Pattern: 6x135 Offset: 25

Fits Dodge Ram 2500/3500; 2010 & older GM 3/4 ton, 1 ton

Dagger Size: 20x8.5 Bolt Pattern: 8x6.5 Offset: 15

139

$

mo960 Size: 20x9 Bolt Pattern: 8x6.5 Offset: -12

129

$

XD803 Size: 24x10 Bolt Pattern: 5x150 Offset: 12

000

$

149

$

239

$

499

$

499

$

rockstar Size: 22x9.5 Bolt Pattern: 8x6.5 Offset: 15

299

$

Serving Minnesota, Wisconsin and The Online Community.

Page 26

Find us on Facebook “Wheels of Thunder”

June 2013

CLOSEOUT SPECIAL! WHILE SUPPLIES LAST CALL TO SEE WHAT FITS YOUR VEHICLE! Fits Dodge Ram 1500

Shilo

Size: 22x9.5 Bolt Pattern: 5x5.5 Offset: 15

MO956

Size: 24x9.5 Bolt Pattern: 5x5.5 Offset: 15

Size: 20x10 Bolt Pattern: 5x5.5 Offset: -12

179

$

149

$

MO960

Shilo

THUMP

Size: 20x9 Bolt Pattern: 8x180 Offset: -12

Size: 18x9 Bolt Pattern: 8x180 Offset:

149

$

209

$

031b

129

$

circuit Size: 24x9.5 Bolt Pattern: 6x5.5 Offset: 30

THUMP

Size: 20x9 Bolt Pattern: 8x180 Offset:

179

$

trench Size: 20x8.5 Bolt Pattern: 6x5.5 Offset: 30

289

$ Fits GM 1/2 Ton (Silverado, Sierra, Tahoe, Yukon, Suburban, Avalanche, Escalade)

dime Size: 26x10 Bolt Pattern: 6x5.5 Offset: 25

399

$

lss-55 Size: 24x10 Bolt Pattern: 6x5.5 Offset: 35

499

$

Size: 20x9 Bolt Pattern: 6x5.5 Offset: 25

199

$

SLIDE Size: 20x8.5 Bolt Pattern: 6x5.5 Offset: 10

249

$

lx-10 Size: 24x9.5 Bolt Pattern: 6x5.5 Offset: 25

499

$

149

$

trench

ADVOCATE

Size: 22x9.5 Bolt Pattern: 6x5.5 Offset: 30

Size: 24x10 Bolt Pattern: 6x5.5 Offset: 25

189

$

fuel black Size: 18x8.5 Bolt Pattern: 6x5.5 Offset: 18

109

$

dagger Size: 22x9.5 Bolt Pattern: 6x5.5 Offset: 18

169

$

499

$

fuel chrome Size: 18x8.5 Bolt Pattern: 6x5.5 Offset: 18

149

$

ar894 Size: 22x9 Bolt Pattern: 6x5.5 Offset: 15

269

$

CALL FOR TIRE & WHEEL PACKAGE PRICES 1447 60th Street North Stillwater, MN 55082

1800 Crest View Drive Hudson, WI 54016

Toll Free: 888-312-0099 June 2013

TireProsWE.com www.WheelsofThunder.net

Page 27

Old Classics, New Concepts . . .

Rethinking restorations

D

ave Jendro looked at the bold, shiny front end of the 1957 Chevy Bel Air he spent hours refinishing, and then he watched TV … on the front end of the ’57 Chevy he spent hours refinishing. Nobody was driving this car anywhere.

With the touch of a button, a 47-inch Vizio 3D television rises from the hood. The headlights flash, and colors in the grill fade in and out. Apparently, one man’s trash can now be another man’s television. No, this car isn’t going for a cruise, but someday it will tie someone’s room together quite nicely – once that right person comes along.

Page 28

Find us on Facebook “Wheels of Thunder”

June 2013

Jendro took a wild idea and ran with it. He’s still running with it, with a new website and big plans for his own business, Classic Car Room. “I wanted to get back to restoring cars or doing something with classics,” said Jendro, of Cambridge, Minn. “But I wanted to do something different.”

Clearly, that is what Jendro has done, and he’s only getting started. He cut into to the old, obsolete pieces of the ’57 Chevy last fall, meticulously worked in his shop with some help from his girlfriend and partner, Jani Coffin, and discovered what could happen. It’s a small-time operation with big-time outcomes.

Written by Matt Peterson

“My girlfriend, Jani, helps me a ton,” Jendro said. “Actually, she’s probably a big part of that driving force. She’s got my back. She believes in what we’re doing. She does sandblasting – she does anything to help.”

After several months of fine tuning his first

project, Jendro ended with a gem worthy of bragging rights in any man’s basement, garage or man cave. The mad scientist in Jendro’s head is kicking and screaming to get out. The man can run online stores, build phone apps, write html code and do nearly whatever he sets his mind to. “I don’t know,” Jendro said. “My wheels just get spinning in my head. I don’t know what it is.”

After hours of polishing, wiring and fabricating, Jendro’s ’57 Chevy entertainment center was ready just in time for a big game. “We watched the Super Bowl on it,” he said.

When it comes to quality, Jendro isn’t cutting any corners, either. Among the colors, chrome, flashing lights and ascending 3D TV, the entertainment center houses a 3D/Blu-ray player with surround sound system and room for movies and games inside the hood. Even a safety device prevents the hood from opening when the television is down or moving.

Jendro doesn’t want to simply make art. He wants to make useful items that people can actually enjoy. If he makes a couch, a man can bet he’s going to sit in it and be comfortable drinking a beer or watching a movie.

Ask Jendro, though, and he’s not sure how he came up with his whole new concept that blends pieces of history with modern function. “People ask me that all the time: ‘What made you dream that up?’” he said.

Jendro isn’t the first craftsman doing such projects with old cars – hacking them into pieces and morphing them into furniture.

But he wants his furniture to be on a new level, useful instead of just a conversation

June 2013

www.WheelsofThunder.net

Page 29

heated seats, massage and foot rest. Plenty of people would like to have one piece of classic car furniture in a room. But for the obsessive collectors, the car can become the room. Jendro saw that potential, and now that has become the focus of his projects.

“My whole idea was to take a car, use the front end for something, use the back for a couch, possibly try to make a themed room for your man cave,” Jendro said. He is currently building a 59 Cadillac room for a customer that will have a TV display made from the front and power reclining theater seats built into the rear.

So Jendro scours Craigslist, eBay and talks to his connections, searching for junk parts that could someday tie another man’s room together. More ideas are waiting to come to life. A ’57 Chevy dash can be a wall shelf. A 1950 Chevy pickup truck can be a basement bar. A 1951 Cadillac can be a barbecue grill. A 1960 Lincoln? Why not a king-size bed? How about the side of a 59 Cadillac on the wall with 2 flatscreen TV’s rising up out of the hood and trunk, then open the door to grab yourself a beer for the ultimate man cave?

piece. After years of restoring newer-model cars and tackling occasional classic projects, Jendro, a welder and auto body technician, has somewhat returned to his roots.

“I just decided to build it and tried to figure out if there is a market for them,” Jendro said about classic car furniture. “From the feedback I’ve been getting, I definitely think there is.”

Others can believe that too, including Gene Kohler, owner of Route 65 Classics in Ham Lake, Minn. He likes Jendro’s ideas, and now Jendro’s Chevy television sits at Route 65 on display. “He’s actually the one who believes in what I’m doing and wants to see it succeed,” Jendro said about Kohler.

In late May, Jendro was almost done with the matching, reclining couch made out of the car’s rear section, too, complete with

The possibilities are endless. Jendro even hopes to build something special for Kohler: a 1964 Chevy Impala desk, with rising computer screens and plenty of automated gadgets. “I’m just going to build it and show up there with it, and of course, he’s going to have to have it,” Jendro joked.

In the meantime, Kohler will have to wait, just not nearly as long as some frames,

Among the many classics Route 65 sells that are meant to hit the road, the television set gets its fair share of looks, too.

Kohler uses one word over and over to describe Jendro’s work: “unique.”

“I like them because they’re unique,” Kohler said. “I think for a guy who wants to decorate his man cave or home garage with something unique, they are a great item.”

It’s just the beginning, though. Jendro already completed the ’57 Chevy refrigerator, made from a 1950’s fridge that was completely restored and customized. “I just decided to do the matching fridge because everyone needs a fridge in their man cave,” Jendro said.

Page 30

Find us on Facebook “Wheels of Thunder”

June 2013

doors and hoods of classic cars do in sheds and backyards, until people like Jendro find them.

Somewhere, an old junker hides its true face under years of rust and grime. It may sit in shambles forever, or Jendro might stumble across it, fresh with another idea – an idea just crazy enough to work. Whether it be a classic or muscle car their motto is “You Dream It, We Can Build It”.

To view more of Jendro’s projects or to inquire about one, stop by their booth at “Back to the 50s” car show on June 21-23 at MN State Fairgrounds or visit classiccarroom.com, email classiccarroom@gmail.com or call 763-772-5052.

June 2013

www.WheelsofThunder.net

Page 31

Page 32

Find us on Facebook “Wheels of Thunder”

June 2013

BEST IN THE BUSINESS! Opportunities are available for businesses who are the best in their business and want to advertise in the Wheels of Thunder! We have many forms of marketing to fit your needs!

Call Scott Robinson 612-730-3719 June 2013

www.WheelsofThunder.net

Page 33

T

F

S

MON

3

10

17

24

SUN

2

9

16

23/30

1 2 3 4 8 9 10 11 15 16 17 18 22 23 24 25 29 30 31

T W

5 6 7 12 13 14 19 20 21 26 27 28

S M

May 2013

25

18

11

4

TUE

26

19

12

5

WED

27

20

13

6

THU

7

28

21

14

FRI

29

22

15

8

1

SAT

15

22

29

14

21

28

30

23

16

9

2

1

8

TUE

MON

7

SUN

31

24

17

10

3

WED

25

18

11

4

THU

T W

26

19

12

5

FRI

4 5 6 7 11 12 13 14 18 19 20 21 25 26 27 28

S M

F

S

27

20

13

6

SAT

1 2 3 8 9 10 15 16 17 22 23 24 29 30 31

T

August 2013

Page 36

Find us on Facebook “Wheels of Thunder”

June 2013

June 2013

www.WheelsofThunder.net

Page 37

S

ince 1956, The Princeton Speedway has been the premier place to be on Friday nights for live dirt track racing. Racecar drivers entertain the fans with side by side racing action, crashes and close finishes every week keeping the fans coming back for more action!

The Princeton Speedway features five WISSOTA classes every Friday night. The Street Stocks, Midwest Modifieds, Mod Fours, Super Stocks, and Modifieds are in action along with the Princeton Hornets which feature kids as young as 14. Drivers and fans from all over the state, neighboring states, and even Canada make the trip to Princeton to watch the dirt fly.

Page 38

Find us on Facebook “Wheels of Thunder�

June 2013

Written by Tami Jo Kuehn Photography by Jacy Norgaard and Bailey Sens

This season, Mother Nature postponed the track’s opener, but Friday May 10 was the official Princeton Speedway Kick Off. More than 80 drivers raced that night and fans packed the stands for the fun night. Upon arrival people noticed there were bounce castles for kids to play in and new food and beverage dealers to try. The Princeton High School Choir Sang the national anthem, there was a fly over by a WWII ATC plane, and the local boy scouts presented the flags to the crowd. The crowd loved the opening ceremonies which got them excited for the races to start.

The races were nothing short of exciting with a lot of great racing action.

The Princeton Hornets were the first feature race of the night, and it was an exciting race. Erik Cleasby led most of the race until Dannie Burkholder moved to his side.

Matthew Dibb was racing hard, and clipped the front wall forcing his car to roll in front of the crowd. Dibb was ok, and the other drivers lined up. Cleasby and Burkholder kept battling and ran side by side for the win. Burkholder took the lead and won the feature event.

Kurt Becken and Jim Gullikson led the WISSOTA Street Stocks out for the next feature, but an early caution sent the drivers into scatter mode. As Becken and Gullikson retook the green, Dave Read shot to the low groove and became the leader.

Read continued to lead the way while drivers battled throughout the field. Ryan Kostreba made his way into fourth and then made some passes claiming second, while Justin Pogones went from fifth to third in swift move under Gullikson and Keith Tourville. Read continued with his comfortable lead and grabbed the checkered flag wheeling his streeter into the Wagamon Motor’s Victory Lane.

Denis Czech started outside pole in the WISSOTA Midwest Modifieds feature, quickly took the lead, and never looked back. Jeremy Nelson and Jason Vandekamp battled for second over many laps, sharing the position, until Vandekamp went off the tracks north edge, and Nelson secured the point. Bud Martini, who had been sent to the back prior in the feature, made his way back into the top five and challenged Dave

June 2013

www.WheelsofThunder.net

Page 39

was faster out of the turns keeping the point. As the laps ticked by, the battle for first got hotter and hotter. Zeller held off Stortz and Sabraski, but they were stubborn and wouldn’t back off. With three laps to go, it appeared that Sabraski had taken the lead. When Sabraski and Zeller rounded turn four, it was Sabraski in front taking the flag. Zeller gave it one last push, but Sabraski held him and took the feature win.

Racing on Friday nights are always full of excitement at the Princeton Speedway, and this was just one night of many to come.

Siercks for the third position. Czech continued to dominate the race and took his first win of the 2013 race season The WISSOTA Mod Fours were next up to race with Kyle Thell grabbing the lead and Ross Mead, Keith Thell and Nick Jelacie behind him. Mitch Hribar started in eighth, and quickly made his way through the traffic. Hribar found himself in third, and within a lap stole second. Hribar looked ahead at Thell and his half-track lead.

Hribar kept chasing Thell as the yellow flew and Thell was forced to slow down.

Thell gunned it when the green flew, and although Hribar was close, Thell pulled away and held the lead until the race ended.

The field of WISSOTA Super Stocks was stacked with talent as Kevin Burdick, James

Trantina and Dave Mass went three-wide for first when the flag flew. Mass came out of turn two in the lead. Burdick and Loomis swapped positions for a while until Burdick nosed ahead taking third, but Shane Sabraski quickly took third. Sabraski then took second, and set his eyes on Mass.

With only five laps remaining, Sabraski closed in on Mass, but didn’t have the laps to catch him. Mass took the checkered flag with Sabraski more than a second behind him.

The WISSOTA Modifieds rolled onto the track for the night’s last race. Larry Zeller clinched the lead and J.B. Stortz snagged second as the feature began. Stortz moved alongside Zeller for the lead, but Zeller held him off. Sabraski then drove to Stortz’ door and they moved alongside Zeller.

They ran three-wide for the lead, but Zeller

The Princeton Speedway schedule is set for the year including many kid’s nights and other fun nights. There’s also a new kids club this season called the Jr Fan Club. All kids 12 & under are allowed to join and for $5.00 they will receive a lanyard with a personalized member card and a goodie bag.

There will be activities through the year that will be “members only” and that’s for the Jr Fan Club. Activities may include: trophy presenter, flag man, activities, bounce castles and others. It will be a fun club for kids to be in and what a fun way to get kids excited for the night!

Check out our website at www.princetonspeedway.com or facebook by searching Princeton Speedway for updates and upcoming events. This racing season is going to be a fun event every week, and you’re not going to want to miss a beat! We hope to see you all at the Princeton Speedway!

Page 40

Find us on Facebook “Wheels of Thunder”

June 2013

Page 42

Find us on Facebook “Wheels of Thunder”

June 2013

SANY AND BIK SPONSORING CANADIAN PRO STOCK DRIVER MARK MARTINO Provided by Nicole Erickson, Forward Sports Marketing Page 44

Find us on Facebook “Wheels of Thunder”

June 2013

M

artino Motorsports is bringing a new global sponsor to the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series. SANY America, in conjunction with BIK Hydraulics, will sponsor Mark Martino’s Pro Stock team beginning at the 2013 NHRA Summernationals in Englishtown, NJ, and will do so for several seasons thru a recently signed multiple year agreement.

“I’m so proud to welcome SANY America and BIK to our Pro Stock team,” said Martino. “SANY manufactures great cranes that we personally use in our family business, DeSantis Crane Service. To have their support on my race team - - it’s just the perfect partnership.” Martino went on to say, “I also want to thank Forward Sports Marketing for helping bring all of this together and putting us on the track starting at Englishtown.”

SANY is a global leader in the manufacture and sale of hoisting equipment (crawler, truck, rough-terrain and all-terrain cranes), concrete machines (concrete pumps, placing booms, mixer trucks and batching plants), road machinery (motor graders, rollers, pavers and asphalt batching plants), port equipment (container reach stackers, empty-container handlers, heavy forklifts and gantry cranes), excavators, mining equipment (rigid haul trucks, road headers, mining vehicles, longwall systems and continuous miners), pile-driving machinery and wind turbines.

"SANY America is very excited to partner with BIK Hydraulics and DeSantis Crane Service to sponsor Martino Motorsports in the 2013 NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing series,” said Kirk Erlinger, SANY America Director of Sales & Dealer Development.

“Earlier this year we also began sponsoring Tommy Baldwin Racing and the Num-

MARK MARTINO DATE OF BIRTH: January 13, 1979

HOMETOWN: Stoney Creek, Ont.

CAREER BEST E.T.: 6.552

CAREER BEST SPEED: 210.54

MARITAL STATUS: Wife Tina;

HEIGHT/WEIGHT: 5'9", 180 lbs.

SPONSOR/CAR: DeSantis Crane Service Pontiac GXP CREW CHIEF: Brian "Lump" Self • 2011: Qualified 15th for the NHRA Mac Tools U.S. Nationals; qualified 16th for the Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals • 2010: Made NHRA Pro Stock Debut in Brainerd, Minn.

• 2008 - 2010: Successfully competed in IHRA and ADRL Pro Stock from

June 2013

ber 7 car driven by Dave Blaney in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, so branching out into NHRA is a natural fit. We look forward to hosting customers at the NHRA races and rooting for Mark Martino."

BIK Hydraulics is a SANY crane dealer located in Toronto, which also specializes in building, selling and servicing boom trucks. BIK was instrumental in finalizing the sponsor relationship with Martino Motorsports and SANY America.

“BIK Hydraulics is thrilled to sponsor a fellow Canadian in the NHRA Series,” says Elemer Ivan, Owner of BIK Hydraulics.

“This is the first time we’ve been a part of a sponsorship of this magnitude and we look forward to expanding our relationship with all of the good people at SANY and Martino Motorsports.”

Martino will be driving a Pro Stock GXP powered by MB Race Engines. The team will begin qualifying at Englishtown on Friday, May 31st. www.WheelsofThunder.net

Page 45

Page 46

Find us on Facebook “Wheels of Thunder”

June 2013

GOOD THINGS HAPPEN WHEN ABATE OF MINNESOTA MEMBERS VISIT WASHINGTON, DC ABATE of Minnesota is well known for protecting motorcyclists rights and advancing common sense safety initiatives in our state. But our proactive approach does not stop at the border. Last month five ABATE of Minnesota members traveled to Washington, DC to lobby on your behalf at the federal level. To call the trip a success would be an understatement! We visited all eight of Minnesota’s US House of Representative offices as well as both US Senate offices. Six of those appointments were personal meetings with legislators. The other four were with senior staffers. We ex-

June 2013

plained that motorcyclists know what is best for motorcyclists. And heavy handed “one size fits all” mandates are not only unAmerican, but have unintended consequences that hurt all road users. As gas was approaching $4.40 per gallon, ABATE of Minnesota members reinforced the message that motorcycles are an economical and viable part of the transportation mix, cause almost no road wear, and should be promoted as a way to reduce traffic congestion and conserve energy. And certainly should not be singled out for mandatory motorcycle only roadside checkpoints, like

the ones that NHTSA funds using your tax dollars.

ABATE of Minnesota is working for you on many levels. If you are an ABATE member, thanks. If not, please consider joining and supporting ABATE of Minnesota.

Yours in freedom, Mack Backlund, State Coordinator ABATE of MN 763-226-9195 www.abatemn.org

www.WheelsofThunder.net

Page 47

Written by Mylie Lavold

M

other’s day kicked off the season opener at Buffalo River Race Park in Glyndon, MN. The BRRP Series hit the dirt track featuring Legends, Pure Stocks, Hornets, Wissota Midwest Mods and Mod 4’s). This was only the beginning of another rock star racing season at BRRP.

Page 48

Find us on Facebook “Wheels of Thunder”

June 2013

In addition to regular Sunday night racing, BRRP has a great special event line up starting with the Red River Valley Pullers Association modified truck and tractor pull on Saturday, June 22. Pullers come from North Dakota, Minnesota, and Canada to compete and entertain spectators. With custom paint and bodies, and modified engines, these are not your average, everyday tractors. Pullers mean business and competition is fierce.

CLASSES: • Limited Modified Tractors: 525 Cubic Inch single engine limit (No Diesel)

• Modified Tractors: 1,2, or 3 engines possible here • Super Stock Tractors: diesel & alcohol fueled • Hot Stock Tractors: turbo diesel • Open Modified Tractors: any combination of engines Loud and proud in both appearance and performance, the trucks are no slouches either.

TRUCK CLASSES:

• Pro-Stock 4x4 Pickups: 480 Cubic Inch Limit • Super-Stock 4x4 Pickups: 530 Cubic Inch Limit • Open Modified 4x4 Pickups: 650 Cubic Inch Natural Aspirated limit • Modified 2wd Pickups: 575 Cubic Inch Blown Limit • Pro Street Diesel 4x4 Pickups: Factory drive train with fueling mods. Must be licensed June 2013

www.WheelsofThunder.net

Page 49

The NOSA Sprint special that was schedule for May 25th has been postponed.

BRRP plans to announce a rescheduled date soon.

Regular Sunday racing starts at 6:00 pm each week featuring regional favorites battling for points and bragging rights.

June kicks off Motocross at BRRP. Starting June 9th the track will open on the south side of Hwy 10 and pit road, off Hwy 9.

Sunday is race day and practice days are Tuesdays and Thursdays. Look for a new MX track on the speedway side later this summer.

Postponement announcement: Saturday May 25 NOSA SPRINT CAR For speedway racing information contact: Duane Peterson, 701-371-6229 The stars will be out on July 28 when the All Star Sprint Championship Tour takes over BRRP. Now in their 30th year of operation, the All Stars are one of the premier sprint car sanctioning bodies in the USA. Fans of sprint car racing won’t want to miss this one.

cle course is open to anyone who isn’t afraid of a little mud. The MUDMAN website promises “a day you won’t forget.”

Which includes conquering fire, beating gladiators, surviving hills, climbing tire mountain, and lots and lots of mud.

For advertising or VIP packages contact: Brad Rivers, BRRP@cableone.net www.BuffaloRiverRacing.com Facebook: Buffalo River Race Park

Special events continue through August and September and include, NLRA Late Model Special Legends, Ojibwe Forest Rally (Rally America), Night of Destruction Tuff Trucks Train Races & Roll Over contest and Corn Cob Nationals.

The 2013 season culminates on September 14th when BRRP hosts the MUDMAN adventure race series. This extreme 5K obsta-

Page 50

Find us on Facebook “Wheels of Thunder”

June 2013

June 2013

www.WheelsofThunder.net

Page 51

Complete & Total Success!

Written by John Lentzkow

Page 52

Find us on Facebook “Wheels of Thunder”

June 2013

The only traditional hot rod and custom vintage show in Iowa was held the first weekend of May in Du-buque, Iowa. This annual event took place despite the weather reports which predicted 100% chance of rain on Friday. Add to reports of people digging out 2 foot snow drifts just to get their cars out of their garage north of Minneapolis and jack knifed big rigs all along I-35 and I-80, event organizers felt the show was very successful.

rain which had a wind chill of 29 degrees on Friday.

Many travelers who endured a treacherous road trip emailed privately apologizing about turning around. While the show is a good time, it is not worth risking your ride or your well-being. There were many people that came up at the show and apologized for not bringing their ride to the show. Ulti-mately organizers were just happy people showed up in the wind and

Of those 535 pre-registered rides about 125 did not show up. With additional late entries, there were a total of over 700 traditional rod and custom cars on site. The classic and chrome section was only about 25-35 compared to the almost 300 last year. It seems the classic and chrome guys refuse to drive their cars even if there is a hint of rain which is understandable.

The Dubuque County Fairgrounds hosted the event, and while it was chaotic and a bit unorganized, eve-ryone loved the new location and the city of Dubuque. The fairgrounds staff went way above and be-yond the call of duty rearranging stages, digging out about 30 cars out of the mud, and accommodating campers. While the lines were long – the food never ran out.

The gate proceeds go to help pay for the show first, and $5000 was given to an June 2013

www.WheelsofThunder.net

Page 53

adopted family and the art auction proceeds went to Hannah Wells Medical Trust.

This year the auction raised just over $20K!!!! With the help of all the artists and bidders this was by far the most successful art auction ever.

Of course the core of Vintage Torque Fest relies on the volunteers. They are the ones that make the show happen. With this support of family, friends, volunteers, car clubs, spectators, and most impor-tantlyhot rod owners, Vintage Torque Fest will continue to be the only traditional rod and custom show in Iowa that matters. Others will try – but they do not have the massive support from you – the fans and participants of Vintage Torque Fest.

2014 Plans are in the works and if you are looking for a fun weekend with good food, plenty of live mu-sic, and some very unique vehicles, check out their web page at www.vintagetorquefest.com.

Page 54

Find us on Facebook “Wheels of Thunder”

June 2013

_________________ e l u d e h c S 3 __ 1 _ 0 _ 2 _ _ _ _ _ ________ JUNE 6/14/13 6/15/13 6/21/13 6/22/13 6/29/13 6/30/13

Mediacom Shootout

Jackson Speedway Knoxville Raceway River Cities Speedway I-94 Speedway Beaver Dam Raceway Cedar Lake Speedway

Jackson, MN Knoxville, IA Grand Forks, ND Fergus Falls, MN Beaver Dam, W New Richmond, WI

JULY 7/3/13

Huset's Speedway

Brandon, SD

AUGUST 8/7/13 8/8/13 8/9/13 8/10/13 8/16/13 8/18/13

Knoxville Nationals Knoxville Nationals Knoxville Nationals Knoxville Nationals

Knoxville Raceway Knoxville Raceway Knoxville Raceway Knoxville Raceway River Cities Speedway Nodak Speedway

Knoxville, IA Knoxville, IA Knoxville, IA Knoxville, IA Grand Forks, ND Minot, ND

SEPTEMBER 9/13/13 9/14/13

Clay County Fairgrounds Deer Creek Speedway

Spencer, IA Spring Valley, MN

G

reetings again Wheels fans! With all due respect to you “Wheelies” (that is, Wheels fans and outdoor types who would love to have snow on the ground 12 months of the year), thank goodness the cold and snow are out of the picture. As the great young racer Kody Kamm once told me, “there’s nothing like being outside doing what we do” and K2 is right! Dirt, bikes, many fast cars, Brainerd NHRA in August and big rigs…bring ‘em all on!

GameON! hopes you are as excited for summer’s arrival soon! This issue of Wheels of Thunder is a textbook full of amazing pictures and unforgettable stories and it loads you up on the sponsor information you might need.

GameON! TV continues to grow & reach so many of you with our sports programming and you know by now that we broadcast in the Dakota's and western Minnesota via MidCo Sports Network. GameON! loves sports, from the variety of professional, college & high school sports to all the outdoor events that dot our regional landscape.

GameON's partnership with Wheels of Thunder is strong and just like you, we also enjoy the most comprehensive race magazine and website to be found! Wheels of Thunder magazine gets it and gets you the latest information, amazing pictures and all those terrific stories to the most passionate motorsports fans in the country!

Looking ahead, there's more special events and moments ahead for GameON! E ach and every week GameON! comes to you in crystal clear full High Definition and our first APP (it's free to for Apple & Android phones) is available for your use! GameON! TV is now offering a weekly PODCAST available @ our show website www.GameOnTvMN.com.

It's full of bits and pieces of sports from the region and what's ahead on our weekly TV show. GameON! still serves as the lead-in to the award winning FOX NFL pre game show on FOX's MY29 here in the Twin Cities during the NFL Season.

G ameON! does what no other TV sports interview show (in the region) does.

We offer a diverse and entertaining half hour of TV as we bring you the most visible and popular Minnesota sports figures. From the Vikings, the NBA Timberwolves, the NHL Wild, the Twins and we visit with the Lacrosse Swarm.

There's NASCAR and we're all over your favorite drivers, in fact, we just welcomed X-Games Gold Medalist Levi LaVallee to a downtown Minneapolis taping.

Page 56

Find us on Facebook “Wheels of Thunder”

This show is interactive so we'd love to hear from you!

Please visit our Facebook site (friend us @ GameON on facebook), our website @ www.gameontvmn.com and 24/7on twitter #gameontvmn. And we're always planning bigger and better shows at the best Irish Pubs in the world, Kierans, The Liffey, The Local and Cooper! You are always welcome to visit our live tapings and each week we list guests and updates on the GameON! website as well as our Facebook site.

Get upclose and personal with us!! GameON! Host Rod Simons has added baseball to his schedule, joining the new radio home for your Minnesota Twins @ KTWIN 96.3. Rod will host The KTWIN Final Call with longtime Minnesota radio personality Jason Nagel after each and every Twins game. So, please join us for all that sports offers us here in our great neck of the woods, via Wheels of Thunder, G ameON! and KTWIN radio! And get your Vikings fix with our partner in one of the largest Vikings fan websites in the world, www.PurplePride.org.

I've said it before and I'm saying it again! Get off the couch and get your GameON! Be a part of the exciting effort we're putting on! Here's to the spring fast approaching! Hope to see you at an upcoming GameON! taping!!

Keep your GameON!

June 2013

Page 60

Find us on Facebook “Wheels of Thunder”

June 2013

June 2013

www.WheelsofThunder.net

Page 61

Page 62

Find us on Facebook “Wheels of Thunder”

June 2013

SEND TO: WHEELS OF THUNDER, 13915 RADIUM ST. NW, SUITE D • RAMSEY, MN 55303 ___ YES! I want to subscribe to the Wheels of Thunder Magazine & receive 12 issues for $34.99! ___ OR, enter me into the drawing for a 2011 Polaris Sportsman ATV & receive 12 issues for $40!

Charge my credit card: _____VISA

_____Mastercard

_____Discover (Please check one)

Card # ______________________________________________________________________ Exp. Date __________________________________________________CVC # ___________ Signature ___________________________________________________________________ Name ______________________________________________________________________ Address ____________________________________________________________________ City ___________________________State________ Zip______________________________ Phone_____________________________________________ E-mail _____________________________________________ Mail check or money order or call 763-421-4400 for credit card orders.

June 2013

www.WheelsofThunder.net

Page 63