This just in from Bob Reed about the Ellsworth Show
Just got back from the little show in Ellsworth, we had a good day, good people and very fair judges. The Elks put the show on for the Veterans of Maine. Like I said small but good. Also congrats to Robbie Russell for best of show and peoples choice plus best truck.
Bob R.& the Spirit
Thanks Bob
It Also reminds me of Togus, Robbie Russel and the SGT. ROCK truck lead in the Colors at the opening Ceromony at the Togus run this year and represented all branches of the Military.
THANK YOU ROBBIE
8/30/09
$15.00 Per Car
Just a short tirade today. The Weekend is pretty much a wash out and I really had no intention of going to Littleton ME. today.
I recently went off on OOB and their endeavor to stuff a $15.00 entry fee up our ass for there "Show" and recommended the "Wheels on the Waterfront" show in Bangor the week before. Well evidently I spoke with a forked tongue because these clowns are also stuffing a $15.00 entry fee up our ass.
With both shows we have one thing in common, Community/ Municipal Organizations. With the OOB Show being run by the Chamber of Commerce and Bangor by a group known as the Greater Bangor Convention & Visitors Bureau this almost reeks of price fixing.
So here's my problem, why would I want to pay a $15.00 fee for one day and in return I get what, A cold Turkey Hot Dog and a Overcooked Burger? They should at least supply you with Minions to clean your car.
Now back to the real world, for a $35.00 entry fee ( if your a member of the NSRA ) you get 3.5 days of fun in Burlington. They do a "Meet & Greet" on Thursday night and you get a decent meal with beverage and dessert. On Friday the Show begins with Vendors like our own Fritz's Tire, Yearwood from Georgia, Sanderson Headers, Borgeson, on and on and on. Friday night a Dance with live Music and close to 2,000 vehicles. Saturday this continues with cars and vendors and a swap meet and that night another dance. Sunday they have the same thing but do a church service in the AM and the Grand Prizes in the Afternoon.
Thats not counting the giveaways they do everyday from Friday on. They give away upwards of $100,000.00 of Merchandise every year and the prizes are not cheap ones. Miller Welders, Sanderson Headers, Haneline Gauges, Tea's Seats with the Grand prizes including Crate Engines and 3 chances at $3,000 cash. All for $35.00
I'll be at the Bangor Show only because I promised the organizers that I'd be there. I ain't happy about it and they will hear my voice loud and clear.
I recently went off on OOB and their endeavor to stuff a $15.00 entry fee up our ass for there "Show" and recommended the "Wheels on the Waterfront" show in Bangor the week before. Well evidently I spoke with a forked tongue because these clowns are also stuffing a $15.00 entry fee up our ass.
With both shows we have one thing in common, Community/ Municipal Organizations. With the OOB Show being run by the Chamber of Commerce and Bangor by a group known as the Greater Bangor Convention & Visitors Bureau this almost reeks of price fixing.
So here's my problem, why would I want to pay a $15.00 fee for one day and in return I get what, A cold Turkey Hot Dog and a Overcooked Burger? They should at least supply you with Minions to clean your car.
Now back to the real world, for a $35.00 entry fee ( if your a member of the NSRA ) you get 3.5 days of fun in Burlington. They do a "Meet & Greet" on Thursday night and you get a decent meal with beverage and dessert. On Friday the Show begins with Vendors like our own Fritz's Tire, Yearwood from Georgia, Sanderson Headers, Borgeson, on and on and on. Friday night a Dance with live Music and close to 2,000 vehicles. Saturday this continues with cars and vendors and a swap meet and that night another dance. Sunday they have the same thing but do a church service in the AM and the Grand Prizes in the Afternoon.
Thats not counting the giveaways they do everyday from Friday on. They give away upwards of $100,000.00 of Merchandise every year and the prizes are not cheap ones. Miller Welders, Sanderson Headers, Haneline Gauges, Tea's Seats with the Grand prizes including Crate Engines and 3 chances at $3,000 cash. All for $35.00
I'll be at the Bangor Show only because I promised the organizers that I'd be there. I ain't happy about it and they will hear my voice loud and clear.
8/28/09
100
100 times, 100 things, 100 posts on this blog.
When I started, it never crossed my mind that it would last this long. I figured someone would shut it down long before this. I really had no intention to have it last this long. I started this to give the Hotrodders in Maine, an actual voice that wasn’t politically correct or the self appointed overseer of all things Car Show. It came to be that I became a different point of view, that was actually the same point of view, just a little skewed. Well, maybe more skewed than I thought.
I left a door open for you the reader, as the comments came slowly, but now seem to be almost daily, with a give and take rather than an adversarial flavor and I have you the readers to thank for that. You listen, you comment, I listen and post it. Opposing views were posted as well with out censorship, unless it had profanity.
We have laughed at ourselves and at others. I have told tall tales and stories and you enjoyed them all. I have raged against politics, the government, and arrogance with support from you always. I have been on the Offense and at times have been found Offensive. I have been on defense and have been defended by many.
I have not apologized for my take on the hobby and have not been asked to. My opinions are mine and not those of any club I belong to. That has always been a constant. Always I have been outspoken in my take on things and not formed an opinion without doing my homework first. This to has always been a constant.
The only thing I regret, is not starting this sooner than I did.
Thanks for the support and allowing me the pleasure of screaming loud and long. At anything or anyone I wanted.
Here's to 100 more.
When I started, it never crossed my mind that it would last this long. I figured someone would shut it down long before this. I really had no intention to have it last this long. I started this to give the Hotrodders in Maine, an actual voice that wasn’t politically correct or the self appointed overseer of all things Car Show. It came to be that I became a different point of view, that was actually the same point of view, just a little skewed. Well, maybe more skewed than I thought.
I left a door open for you the reader, as the comments came slowly, but now seem to be almost daily, with a give and take rather than an adversarial flavor and I have you the readers to thank for that. You listen, you comment, I listen and post it. Opposing views were posted as well with out censorship, unless it had profanity.
We have laughed at ourselves and at others. I have told tall tales and stories and you enjoyed them all. I have raged against politics, the government, and arrogance with support from you always. I have been on the Offense and at times have been found Offensive. I have been on defense and have been defended by many.
I have not apologized for my take on the hobby and have not been asked to. My opinions are mine and not those of any club I belong to. That has always been a constant. Always I have been outspoken in my take on things and not formed an opinion without doing my homework first. This to has always been a constant.
The only thing I regret, is not starting this sooner than I did.
Thanks for the support and allowing me the pleasure of screaming loud and long. At anything or anyone I wanted.
Here's to 100 more.
8/26/09
Antiques, Customs and Street Rods
Chop Top is at the top of his game tonight, bringing up a good point in the previous blog so I dug around in the archives and bring to you from the pages of the Statutes that rule the land here in the STATE of MAINE the Definitions used by the State as they were written in a post from 12/15/08 in its entirety.
AT SOME POINT IN TIME, SOMEBODY SCREWED UP IN THE STATE HOUSE TO THE POINT THAT YEARS LATER IT HAS COME UP AND BITTEN THEM ON THE ASS. OR AT THE LEAST THAT IS WHAT WE ARE BEING TOLD BY THE POWERS THAT BE IN AUGUSTA.
THE POINT IS THAT THERE ARE OVER 13,000 ANTIQUE MOTOR VEHICLES REGISTERED IN THE STATE OF MAINE, WITH LESS THAN 500 STREET RODS AND LESS THAN THAT AGAIN IN CUSTOMS. WHAT THE DILEMMA THE STATE IS HAVING IS THAT MANY VEHICLES REGISTERED AS ANTIQUES ARE NOT LEGALLY REGISTERED AS ANTIQUES. SO LETS LOOK AT THE STATE OF MAINE'S DEFINITIONS OF ALL 3.
3. Antique auto. "Antique auto" means an automobile or truck manufactured in or after model year 1916 that is:
A. More than 25 years old; [1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
B. Equipped with an engine manufactured either at the same time as the vehicle or to the specifications of the original engine; [1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
C. Substantially maintained in original or restored condition primarily for use in exhibitions, club activities, parades or other functions of public interest; [1997, c. 653, §2 (AMD).]
D. Not used as its owner's primary mode of transportation of passengers or goods; [2005, c. 314, §1 (AMD).]
E. Not a reconstructed vehicle; and [2005, c. 314, §2 (AMD).]
F. Not an altered vehicle. [2005, c. 314, §3 (NEW).][ 2005, c. 314, §§1-3 (AMD) .]
19-A. Custom vehicle. "Custom vehicle" means a motor vehicle that is at least 30 years old and of a model year after 1948 or a motor vehicle that was manufactured to resemble a motor vehicle that is at least 30 years old and of a model year after 1948 and that has been altered from the manufacturer's original design or has a body constructed from nonoriginal material.[ 2005, c. 321, §1 (NEW); 2005, c. 321, §6 (AFF) .]
76. Street rod. "Street rod" means a replica of or a modified antique auto manufactured prior to 1949 that complies with standards adopted by the Chief of the State Police.[ 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF) .]
NOT MUCH THERE EXCEPT THE FACT THAT IT CLEARLY STATES IN THE DEFINITION ,STOCK OR AS CLOSE TO ORIGINAL AS POSSIBLE IN BODY ENGINE ETC. WHAT THE PROBLEM REALLY IS THAT ANTIQUES DO NOT REQUIRE A STATE SAFETY INSPECTION. DUE TO THIS GIANT LOOP HOLE MANY CUSTOMS ARE REGISTERED AS ANTIQUES, MANY STREET RODS ARE REGISTERED AS ANTIQUES.
IF THE ONLY ONES VIOLATING THIS WERE THE CUSTOMS AND RODS THEN IT WOUILDN'T BE MUCH OF A PROBLEM. HERES THE REAL PROBLEM, SOME SHMUCK WITH A 82 CITATION WITH HOLES IN THE FLOOR BIG ENOUGH TO FALL THROUGH, CAN'T GET A STICKER. HE CHANGES HIS REGISTRATION TO ANTIQUE VEHICLE AND "TADA" PROBLEM SOLVED. SO NOW HE'S FREE AND CLEAR AND DRIVES IT BACK FORTH TO WORK EVERYDAY. THATS WHAT THEIR AFTER BUT WE ALL NEED TO BE CAREFUL BECAUSE SOME OVER EAGER ROOKIE TROOPER IS GOING TO BAG ONE OF US.
OF THE 13,000 VEHICLES REGISTERED AS AN ANTIQUES IN THE STATE OF MAINE (AND THESE ARE APPROXIMATIONS) 10% TO 15% ARE STREET RODS, CUSTOMS ARE BEING FIGURED AT DOUBLE THAT OR MORE AND OF THE REMAINDER 15% OR MORE ARE TOTAL PIECES OF JUNK THAT ARE A DANGER TO ALL AND NEED TO BE REMOVED FROM THE ROAD.
THE MCAA, MOAL, AACA, NSRA AND A HOST OF CLUBS INCLUDING THE ROAD SCHOLARS ARE WORKING WITH THE SECRATARY OF STATE AND THE STATE POLICE TO COME UP WITH A VIABLE PLAN THAT WILL NOT DAMAGE OUR HOBBY. STAY TUNED IT MIGHT GET A LITTLE BUSY.
That is how it was in December and not much has changed. The rules for State Inspections are pretty easy to comply with and why not take advantage of the Benefits of registering as a Custom or Street Rod if it fits the Criteria.
AT SOME POINT IN TIME, SOMEBODY SCREWED UP IN THE STATE HOUSE TO THE POINT THAT YEARS LATER IT HAS COME UP AND BITTEN THEM ON THE ASS. OR AT THE LEAST THAT IS WHAT WE ARE BEING TOLD BY THE POWERS THAT BE IN AUGUSTA.
THE POINT IS THAT THERE ARE OVER 13,000 ANTIQUE MOTOR VEHICLES REGISTERED IN THE STATE OF MAINE, WITH LESS THAN 500 STREET RODS AND LESS THAN THAT AGAIN IN CUSTOMS. WHAT THE DILEMMA THE STATE IS HAVING IS THAT MANY VEHICLES REGISTERED AS ANTIQUES ARE NOT LEGALLY REGISTERED AS ANTIQUES. SO LETS LOOK AT THE STATE OF MAINE'S DEFINITIONS OF ALL 3.
3. Antique auto. "Antique auto" means an automobile or truck manufactured in or after model year 1916 that is:
A. More than 25 years old; [1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
B. Equipped with an engine manufactured either at the same time as the vehicle or to the specifications of the original engine; [1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF).]
C. Substantially maintained in original or restored condition primarily for use in exhibitions, club activities, parades or other functions of public interest; [1997, c. 653, §2 (AMD).]
D. Not used as its owner's primary mode of transportation of passengers or goods; [2005, c. 314, §1 (AMD).]
E. Not a reconstructed vehicle; and [2005, c. 314, §2 (AMD).]
F. Not an altered vehicle. [2005, c. 314, §3 (NEW).][ 2005, c. 314, §§1-3 (AMD) .]
19-A. Custom vehicle. "Custom vehicle" means a motor vehicle that is at least 30 years old and of a model year after 1948 or a motor vehicle that was manufactured to resemble a motor vehicle that is at least 30 years old and of a model year after 1948 and that has been altered from the manufacturer's original design or has a body constructed from nonoriginal material.[ 2005, c. 321, §1 (NEW); 2005, c. 321, §6 (AFF) .]
76. Street rod. "Street rod" means a replica of or a modified antique auto manufactured prior to 1949 that complies with standards adopted by the Chief of the State Police.[ 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF) .]
NOT MUCH THERE EXCEPT THE FACT THAT IT CLEARLY STATES IN THE DEFINITION ,STOCK OR AS CLOSE TO ORIGINAL AS POSSIBLE IN BODY ENGINE ETC. WHAT THE PROBLEM REALLY IS THAT ANTIQUES DO NOT REQUIRE A STATE SAFETY INSPECTION. DUE TO THIS GIANT LOOP HOLE MANY CUSTOMS ARE REGISTERED AS ANTIQUES, MANY STREET RODS ARE REGISTERED AS ANTIQUES.
IF THE ONLY ONES VIOLATING THIS WERE THE CUSTOMS AND RODS THEN IT WOUILDN'T BE MUCH OF A PROBLEM. HERES THE REAL PROBLEM, SOME SHMUCK WITH A 82 CITATION WITH HOLES IN THE FLOOR BIG ENOUGH TO FALL THROUGH, CAN'T GET A STICKER. HE CHANGES HIS REGISTRATION TO ANTIQUE VEHICLE AND "TADA" PROBLEM SOLVED. SO NOW HE'S FREE AND CLEAR AND DRIVES IT BACK FORTH TO WORK EVERYDAY. THATS WHAT THEIR AFTER BUT WE ALL NEED TO BE CAREFUL BECAUSE SOME OVER EAGER ROOKIE TROOPER IS GOING TO BAG ONE OF US.
OF THE 13,000 VEHICLES REGISTERED AS AN ANTIQUES IN THE STATE OF MAINE (AND THESE ARE APPROXIMATIONS) 10% TO 15% ARE STREET RODS, CUSTOMS ARE BEING FIGURED AT DOUBLE THAT OR MORE AND OF THE REMAINDER 15% OR MORE ARE TOTAL PIECES OF JUNK THAT ARE A DANGER TO ALL AND NEED TO BE REMOVED FROM THE ROAD.
THE MCAA, MOAL, AACA, NSRA AND A HOST OF CLUBS INCLUDING THE ROAD SCHOLARS ARE WORKING WITH THE SECRATARY OF STATE AND THE STATE POLICE TO COME UP WITH A VIABLE PLAN THAT WILL NOT DAMAGE OUR HOBBY. STAY TUNED IT MIGHT GET A LITTLE BUSY.
That is how it was in December and not much has changed. The rules for State Inspections are pretty easy to comply with and why not take advantage of the Benefits of registering as a Custom or Street Rod if it fits the Criteria.
As Clear as Shit
In the last post I made the statement that if you have a vehicle at least 30 years old it needs to be Registered as either a Street Rod or a Custom if it has been modified. I need to clarify the term "modification","modify",etc.
If the outward appearance has been changed in a major way IE hole in the hood for a Blower that would qualify as a modification. If the "banger" has been replaced with a "rat" that qualifies.
However if you have upgraded the brakes from mechanical to juice, that is allowed as it is a safety upgrade and thankfully most owners are smart enough to do it. Seatbelts are another that would be allowed.
A certain Camaro from the Windham Area has a Fuel Injected Engine and the owner had to argue with the town office to get it registered as a CUSTOM, because it had been MODIFIED.
If you want to build a car and dump $20,000 in the build and have it pass a safety inspection, Congratulations to you. But then again if you build it and it won't pass, you need to think about a new hobby.
It is a fine line as far as modifications go and we are always careful when walking that line.
Its when you subsribe to the theory that looks and coolness outway safety is when you are endangering us all.
Build it right and it might be safe, build it safe and it will be right.
If the outward appearance has been changed in a major way IE hole in the hood for a Blower that would qualify as a modification. If the "banger" has been replaced with a "rat" that qualifies.
However if you have upgraded the brakes from mechanical to juice, that is allowed as it is a safety upgrade and thankfully most owners are smart enough to do it. Seatbelts are another that would be allowed.
A certain Camaro from the Windham Area has a Fuel Injected Engine and the owner had to argue with the town office to get it registered as a CUSTOM, because it had been MODIFIED.
If you want to build a car and dump $20,000 in the build and have it pass a safety inspection, Congratulations to you. But then again if you build it and it won't pass, you need to think about a new hobby.
It is a fine line as far as modifications go and we are always careful when walking that line.
Its when you subsribe to the theory that looks and coolness outway safety is when you are endangering us all.
Build it right and it might be safe, build it safe and it will be right.
8/25/09
Good Question
Ken Matthews sent a comment (found in the posting of 8/24) on my take on the blatant misuse of the Antique Vehicle Plate on unsafe vehicles or non antiques that are just plain junkers.
Both Ken and I attended the Mid-Coast Show on Sunday and witnessed the reason for his query. A builder of some type of Street Rod that was to say the least, a specimen of bio-hazard/OSHA violation, with a slight hint of Chernobyl and Mount St. Helens on wheels and on it were Antique Plates.
Antique Vehicles in the State of Maine are considered a "Limited Use" Vehicle, to be used at parades , car shows, cruise nights or club functions. Antique Vehicle are to be stock in appearance to include the engine and other drive train components. Due to the "Limited Use" status an annual Vehicle Safety Inspection is NOT REQUIRED.
Now the problem I have is the misuse of these parameters by people who are not willing to build or operate a safe vehicle and apply the Antique Vehicle Status just to get around the issue of a Vehicle Safety Inspection.
Customs and Street Rods are not considered to be "Limited Use" and can be driven any time you want. Both of these types of vehicles are REQUIRED to obtain a Yearly Vehicle Safety Inspection.
Recently a Meeting was held with representatives of several car clubs, both National and Local and representatives of the State. The State is coming up with a plan to curtail this Misuse and I can almost Guarantee that the Legitimate Antique Vehicle owners will not be happy. In turn that can cause a trickle down affect that could screw us all.
If your Vehicle was built in 1948 or prior and it is Modified its a Street Rod.
If your Vehicle is at least 30 years old and was built no earlier than 1949 and its Modified, its a Custom
If your vehicle fits either one of the previous parameters and its registered as Antique, you are in VIOLATION OF THE LAW and will be Fined a MINIMUM of $250.00
You Also signed an Affidavit for your Antique Plates Stating that it is an Antique and it is not to be used as your primary Transportation, Thus a Falsification of Legal Documents. You and the Attorney General will soon become close friends in a Courtroom kind of way
Of the Thousands of Antique Vehicles in the State of Maine a small percentage of Illegally Registered Vehicles is poised to ruin our chances of enjoying our hobby in the years to come.
My take is that ALL vehicles should be required to pass a Periodic Safety Inspection that is geared toward the type and year of said vehicle using tested parameters from many sources.
We all need to educate each other and let these few that misuse the Registration Plates know that they are in violation of the law and may be a danger to not only themselves but also to others and we will not stand for it.
All it takes is one fatality and we all lose. If you are the cause you lose even more.
Both Ken and I attended the Mid-Coast Show on Sunday and witnessed the reason for his query. A builder of some type of Street Rod that was to say the least, a specimen of bio-hazard/OSHA violation, with a slight hint of Chernobyl and Mount St. Helens on wheels and on it were Antique Plates.
Antique Vehicles in the State of Maine are considered a "Limited Use" Vehicle, to be used at parades , car shows, cruise nights or club functions. Antique Vehicle are to be stock in appearance to include the engine and other drive train components. Due to the "Limited Use" status an annual Vehicle Safety Inspection is NOT REQUIRED.
Now the problem I have is the misuse of these parameters by people who are not willing to build or operate a safe vehicle and apply the Antique Vehicle Status just to get around the issue of a Vehicle Safety Inspection.
Customs and Street Rods are not considered to be "Limited Use" and can be driven any time you want. Both of these types of vehicles are REQUIRED to obtain a Yearly Vehicle Safety Inspection.
Recently a Meeting was held with representatives of several car clubs, both National and Local and representatives of the State. The State is coming up with a plan to curtail this Misuse and I can almost Guarantee that the Legitimate Antique Vehicle owners will not be happy. In turn that can cause a trickle down affect that could screw us all.
If your Vehicle was built in 1948 or prior and it is Modified its a Street Rod.
If your Vehicle is at least 30 years old and was built no earlier than 1949 and its Modified, its a Custom
If your vehicle fits either one of the previous parameters and its registered as Antique, you are in VIOLATION OF THE LAW and will be Fined a MINIMUM of $250.00
You Also signed an Affidavit for your Antique Plates Stating that it is an Antique and it is not to be used as your primary Transportation, Thus a Falsification of Legal Documents. You and the Attorney General will soon become close friends in a Courtroom kind of way
Of the Thousands of Antique Vehicles in the State of Maine a small percentage of Illegally Registered Vehicles is poised to ruin our chances of enjoying our hobby in the years to come.
My take is that ALL vehicles should be required to pass a Periodic Safety Inspection that is geared toward the type and year of said vehicle using tested parameters from many sources.
We all need to educate each other and let these few that misuse the Registration Plates know that they are in violation of the law and may be a danger to not only themselves but also to others and we will not stand for it.
All it takes is one fatality and we all lose. If you are the cause you lose even more.
Togus, No Excuse for Missing it.
As a final note on the Togus Run this year, I would like to thank the Rusty Nuts for doing an excellent job on a little reorganizing for the better. Good Job all around from parking to the food lines, all was very well done.
Also all those that followed me up from Lewiston and followed me back. Thank you for being a great crew to lead and allowing me to lead you on a great day to a great event.
Now to all those that missed it this year and last year or can't be bothered to go. What the hell is your problem. This is the best possible way that we, as car people, can show our support of a car club that goes the extra mile to support our veterans. Its the least we can do as citizens of this country to say thank you to those that have served their country and are now stuck in a hospital probably for the rest of their lives.
Many people that had never been and were persuaded to go now have had an eye opening experience that will not be soon forgetten. They have also been back every year since the first time and already are getting up a larger crowd for the next Run.
The meal was free unless you made a donation, money would not be an excuse. The grounds are very well kept and super clean, perfect for any family event. Children could use a little life lesson or a civics class on the way we treat the people who served their country.
If you didn't go because you couldn't be bothered or some other lame assed excuse maybe you need a wake up call and realize that your freedom had to be paid for by someone.
No excuse.
None.
Also all those that followed me up from Lewiston and followed me back. Thank you for being a great crew to lead and allowing me to lead you on a great day to a great event.
Now to all those that missed it this year and last year or can't be bothered to go. What the hell is your problem. This is the best possible way that we, as car people, can show our support of a car club that goes the extra mile to support our veterans. Its the least we can do as citizens of this country to say thank you to those that have served their country and are now stuck in a hospital probably for the rest of their lives.
Many people that had never been and were persuaded to go now have had an eye opening experience that will not be soon forgetten. They have also been back every year since the first time and already are getting up a larger crowd for the next Run.
The meal was free unless you made a donation, money would not be an excuse. The grounds are very well kept and super clean, perfect for any family event. Children could use a little life lesson or a civics class on the way we treat the people who served their country.
If you didn't go because you couldn't be bothered or some other lame assed excuse maybe you need a wake up call and realize that your freedom had to be paid for by someone.
No excuse.
None.
8/24/09
Kit Cars Revisited
Back when I first started this Blog in December of 08 I posted a couple of little tirades on Street Rods and Street Rods made of materials other than Steel being called Kit Cars. After that I thought the subject closed but within the last few weeks I've heard it again, That "so and so took a trophy with his kit car" and I know that "so and so" does in fact have a composite bodied street rod.
Not wanting to throttle the speaker, I walked away, and now need to clarify that the speaker may think he is correct but by law, and definition, is in fact wrong as far as So and So is concerned, but he may need an education in other Street Rod Facts.
By Definition a Kit Car is: an automobile that is available in kit form, which means that the client buys a set of parts and needs to assemble the car themselves.
Usually many major mechanical parts such as the engine and transmission are taken from one or more donor vehicles. Kits vary in completeness from as little as a book of plans to a complete set of all the components required.
If this is a true meaning of a Kit Car then every Street Rod in the World falls within this definition. As my own Street Rod is proof of a set of parts from several different sources put together as a you would a kit. But is it really a kit car. We mostly consider kit cars as coming in a giant box like a model from Revell or AMT with instructions on how it needs to be put together.
Some of the AC Cobra Kits are just that and many Modern manufactureres of Sports cars (Lotus, TVR, Brickland) were once only kit car manufacturers.
If a Kit Car comes from one source and needs only the major components such as engine and transmission then "So and So's" Street Rod does not come close to being a kit car as Outlaw Bodies and TCI Chassis with a Hiedts MII suspension is 3 different manufacturers, bought as 3 pieces not one kit.
So what is considered a Street Rod in Maine: 76. Street rod. "Street rod" means a replica of or a modified antique auto manufactured prior to 1949 that complies with standards adopted by the Chief of the State Police.[ 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF) .]
Seems plain enough by Maine Law, for once. This is also the respected consideration of the major organizations such as GoodGuys, NSRA and KOA. This is even written in the Complete Car Show Guide available at HotKarz.
Now the debate will rage on forever as to composite bodies of materials other than Steel being Kit Cars or whatever you want to call it. But be aware that new techniques in metal stamping and the purchase of the rights to certain body styles now makes it very hard to tell old steel from new as proven in Moncton in the Summer of 2007 during the Atlantic Nationals when a body of students built a complete Camaro from the ground up using Aftermarket Parts.
With Companies like Brookville, SAR, Gibbons and a host of others building pre 49 bodies and the availability of real steel dwindling it will be hard for Street Rodders in the Future to have the authenticity that some demand by saying to us that we have Kit Cars if we don't have old steel.
Yup your Right we all have Kit Cars and by law they are called Street Rods. Just the way we wanted it.
If your belief that other than steel constitutes Kit Car status is correct then I suggest you keep it under your hat. As we as a group are tired of hearing it.
Remember what your mother said "don't poke the dog with a stick".
Not wanting to throttle the speaker, I walked away, and now need to clarify that the speaker may think he is correct but by law, and definition, is in fact wrong as far as So and So is concerned, but he may need an education in other Street Rod Facts.
By Definition a Kit Car is: an automobile that is available in kit form, which means that the client buys a set of parts and needs to assemble the car themselves.
Usually many major mechanical parts such as the engine and transmission are taken from one or more donor vehicles. Kits vary in completeness from as little as a book of plans to a complete set of all the components required.
If this is a true meaning of a Kit Car then every Street Rod in the World falls within this definition. As my own Street Rod is proof of a set of parts from several different sources put together as a you would a kit. But is it really a kit car. We mostly consider kit cars as coming in a giant box like a model from Revell or AMT with instructions on how it needs to be put together.
Some of the AC Cobra Kits are just that and many Modern manufactureres of Sports cars (Lotus, TVR, Brickland) were once only kit car manufacturers.
If a Kit Car comes from one source and needs only the major components such as engine and transmission then "So and So's" Street Rod does not come close to being a kit car as Outlaw Bodies and TCI Chassis with a Hiedts MII suspension is 3 different manufacturers, bought as 3 pieces not one kit.
So what is considered a Street Rod in Maine: 76. Street rod. "Street rod" means a replica of or a modified antique auto manufactured prior to 1949 that complies with standards adopted by the Chief of the State Police.[ 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF) .]
Seems plain enough by Maine Law, for once. This is also the respected consideration of the major organizations such as GoodGuys, NSRA and KOA. This is even written in the Complete Car Show Guide available at HotKarz.
Now the debate will rage on forever as to composite bodies of materials other than Steel being Kit Cars or whatever you want to call it. But be aware that new techniques in metal stamping and the purchase of the rights to certain body styles now makes it very hard to tell old steel from new as proven in Moncton in the Summer of 2007 during the Atlantic Nationals when a body of students built a complete Camaro from the ground up using Aftermarket Parts.
With Companies like Brookville, SAR, Gibbons and a host of others building pre 49 bodies and the availability of real steel dwindling it will be hard for Street Rodders in the Future to have the authenticity that some demand by saying to us that we have Kit Cars if we don't have old steel.
Yup your Right we all have Kit Cars and by law they are called Street Rods. Just the way we wanted it.
If your belief that other than steel constitutes Kit Car status is correct then I suggest you keep it under your hat. As we as a group are tired of hearing it.
Remember what your mother said "don't poke the dog with a stick".
8/23/09
Week End Up Date
So we have reports on Several Shows from People who attended the actual Shows they are reporting on. Wonderful ain't it.
Big Mike (the Ghetto Reporter!) said... From Some Alley in Lewiston
Ok, The Farmington show was interesting to say the least.There were some strange classes (like best antique ENGINE-1 entry- Teen Machines [cars owned by teenagers] 2 entries [one of them a general lee '69 charger that was brought in on a trailer and owned by a 35 or so year old "teen"]'77 to present STOCK) and of course, the ever popular Special Interest. There was no work in progress or custom class. Upon arrival I was told to put the caddy in Special interest. I paid them the $7.00 and didn't display a number, when the judges came around I asked them to not even look at my car, and after their disbelief, they patiently listened to my stand on not wanting a trophy from a class I didn't belong in. They said that they will be discussing the addition of some classes for next year. The funniest part came during the trophy ceremony, when a person that hadn't even attended (although pre- registered) ACTUALLY PLACED A 1ST!!!!!The special interest class did not have 1 special interest vehicle in it.It was indeed a Cluster---- of the highest order!
Thanks Mike
Prettywoman said... Reporting from the Brownfield Office
Does the saying go " build it and they will come"? or have/host it and they will come? Well we went to Brownfield and we're not sorry we did. The Brownfield Lions Club were gracious and jovial hosts, but "everyone" forgot to attend! We were honestly told that they dropped the ball and didn't get the word out earlier. Twelve cars registered and Dee kept a stiff upper lip throughout the whole show She extended registration time and counted ballots early as the rain set in. JOB WELL DONE to Nudd's Mac truck for taking best of show! We were home by 2pm after leaving at 6:30am - not bad! Next year's show WAS slated for August 14th, but I think we talked her out of that date and suggested that maybe a date in July would yield a better result. Anyway had a good time and no stress and drama. Hope your day was equally as enjoyable.
I'm liking this way of show Reports. Thanks Sweety
The Weather must have played havoc on most things on Sunday, as I can personally say the Mid Coast Show was lightly attended with minimal participants in most classes. Everybody that attended was in fine spirits as Bill (The Hurricane) stayed away from the field and the sun came out by 9:30. Hot but not as beastly as Saturday and everybody that won an award was actually in attendance. As always the music was "Different" by the Car show Standard of 50's crapola being replaced by disco and at times you might say it was refreshing in a cold shower kind of way.
Word also came out that Ellsworth has rescheduled for next weekend and I did get a blip on the screen for something in Fairfield on an Island? If Anyone can get me the details on either one of these we will be posting it here.
So thats the way we saw it.
Got a report ,send it in. It Will Be Cleaned, Pressed and Presented to the Masses ASAP
Big Mike (the Ghetto Reporter!) said... From Some Alley in Lewiston
Ok, The Farmington show was interesting to say the least.There were some strange classes (like best antique ENGINE-1 entry- Teen Machines [cars owned by teenagers] 2 entries [one of them a general lee '69 charger that was brought in on a trailer and owned by a 35 or so year old "teen"]'77 to present STOCK) and of course, the ever popular Special Interest. There was no work in progress or custom class. Upon arrival I was told to put the caddy in Special interest. I paid them the $7.00 and didn't display a number, when the judges came around I asked them to not even look at my car, and after their disbelief, they patiently listened to my stand on not wanting a trophy from a class I didn't belong in. They said that they will be discussing the addition of some classes for next year. The funniest part came during the trophy ceremony, when a person that hadn't even attended (although pre- registered) ACTUALLY PLACED A 1ST!!!!!The special interest class did not have 1 special interest vehicle in it.It was indeed a Cluster---- of the highest order!
Thanks Mike
Prettywoman said... Reporting from the Brownfield Office
Does the saying go " build it and they will come"? or have/host it and they will come? Well we went to Brownfield and we're not sorry we did. The Brownfield Lions Club were gracious and jovial hosts, but "everyone" forgot to attend! We were honestly told that they dropped the ball and didn't get the word out earlier. Twelve cars registered and Dee kept a stiff upper lip throughout the whole show She extended registration time and counted ballots early as the rain set in. JOB WELL DONE to Nudd's Mac truck for taking best of show! We were home by 2pm after leaving at 6:30am - not bad! Next year's show WAS slated for August 14th, but I think we talked her out of that date and suggested that maybe a date in July would yield a better result. Anyway had a good time and no stress and drama. Hope your day was equally as enjoyable.
I'm liking this way of show Reports. Thanks Sweety
The Weather must have played havoc on most things on Sunday, as I can personally say the Mid Coast Show was lightly attended with minimal participants in most classes. Everybody that attended was in fine spirits as Bill (The Hurricane) stayed away from the field and the sun came out by 9:30. Hot but not as beastly as Saturday and everybody that won an award was actually in attendance. As always the music was "Different" by the Car show Standard of 50's crapola being replaced by disco and at times you might say it was refreshing in a cold shower kind of way.
Word also came out that Ellsworth has rescheduled for next weekend and I did get a blip on the screen for something in Fairfield on an Island? If Anyone can get me the details on either one of these we will be posting it here.
So thats the way we saw it.
Got a report ,send it in. It Will Be Cleaned, Pressed and Presented to the Masses ASAP
8/22/09
A Little Bit From Everybody
Lets do it this way. Rather than have me give you second hand info on the Shows in Farmington (today) and all the others on Sunday. Send me a comment or an e-mail and I'll perform the magic of cut and paste and let the rest read the further adventures of the show circiut.
Prettywoman is in Brownfield tomorrow so I expect some words from her. Big Mike was in Farmington so I want details. I'll be in Bath on Sunday but will except any and all takes on that show.
Keep it Clean, No Biting, Kicking or Punches Below the Belt.
Lets have some fun
Prettywoman is in Brownfield tomorrow so I expect some words from her. Big Mike was in Farmington so I want details. I'll be in Bath on Sunday but will except any and all takes on that show.
Keep it Clean, No Biting, Kicking or Punches Below the Belt.
Lets have some fun
8/21/09
Update for the Outlook
Big Mike mentioned a show in Farmington, but I'm not seeing any info in my sources and the last Cruise at Hodgmans Frozen Custard in New Gloucester. Both on Saturday.
8/20/09
The Outlook
Well this weekend is the Ballooon Festival in L/A and the Mid-Coast Show in Bath. Or possibly the WCSH Show in Portland
Now I know the Balloon Festival is not really an event just for our Cars and Trucks but they do plan a parade with some cars on Saturday. If your Interested they meet up at Rite Aid in Auburn at 9:45, and where can you get that much hot air. Besides here.
WCSH puts on that thing they call a Show and stick a Pre Registered few in the parking lot behind the Studio, with more of the New Car Dealers in the Portland area than Our people.
Now the Quirky little Mid-Coast show in Bath on Sunday is that, Quirky. Sometimes its a good show, sometimes it really sucks. They have a couple of rules that need to be handled better, but its a good locale with some fine cars.
The weather outlook is not rosey to say the least. I apologize in advance because I can not help myself.
All these events will be affected by Bill and which direction he goes in.
Thats Hurricane Bill.
I've Been a Bad Bad Boy... hee hee hee
Now I know the Balloon Festival is not really an event just for our Cars and Trucks but they do plan a parade with some cars on Saturday. If your Interested they meet up at Rite Aid in Auburn at 9:45, and where can you get that much hot air. Besides here.
WCSH puts on that thing they call a Show and stick a Pre Registered few in the parking lot behind the Studio, with more of the New Car Dealers in the Portland area than Our people.
Now the Quirky little Mid-Coast show in Bath on Sunday is that, Quirky. Sometimes its a good show, sometimes it really sucks. They have a couple of rules that need to be handled better, but its a good locale with some fine cars.
The weather outlook is not rosey to say the least. I apologize in advance because I can not help myself.
All these events will be affected by Bill and which direction he goes in.
Thats Hurricane Bill.
I've Been a Bad Bad Boy... hee hee hee
8/18/09
Horse Meat On Sale
Looks like Horse meat will be on Sale over at HotKarz, the beating its getting will make it very tender. Yes, he's still thrashing Telstar, and from the amount of E-Mails I've Received from the people that went, it deserves every lick.
As always Bill makes some excellent points and rightly so as he was there and with that the discussion about Telstar is done. I didn't go, I was at Hebron.
But I will discuss Car Shows in General.
Are they really Car Shows, or are they more of a Wax Competition. You know, who is cleanest or shiniest, has a vacuum that can out suck ... well we won't go there. But you see how the perception can alter the way we look at it.
Aren't most peer vote shows a Popularity Contest or in some cases an Ass Kissing Contest. In Combination with shiny paint and a firm handshake I dare say that with the right flavored lip balm even I could get an award. We all know that scenario ain't going to happen. You can see how that could work though don't you.
Judged shows are a joke, at least around here. With the talent pool ranging from wet behind the ear kids and volunteer Fireman to Used Car Salesmen and a plumber, it's no wonder a judged show is a joke.
So we don't have a show in the sense of just showing, we have competitions. As one of the many meanings of the word "show" the first one found as a verb at Dictionary.com says; to cause or allow to be seen; exhibit; display. Nothing mentioned even remotely close to competition in any of the meanings that I found.
After going to several National Events IE Atlantic Nationals in Moncton or the Northeast Nats in Burlington and seeing how certain awards are given to really deserving people the one dominate thing is this. Out of the 1600 or more cars that show up at these "Shows" only about 50 clean/kiss ass so that they can get a "PRO'S " pick. Which is a manufacturers representative, who use to be a wet behind the ears kid, who picks a car to best advertise their product. Such as a PPG award for "best use of color" goes to a really good paint job even if its Dupont or House of Kolor. The rep can't tell what brand, hell, he just dropped the part time pizza delivery job last week.
The other awards are given to both the car and the owner. Great Car with an Asshole of an owner, no awards. You have to deserve the award not just kiss ass for it. You built it, you drove it, you helped out a friend building his, and you promote the hobby where ever you go. Even if your vehicle is slightly better than average or even less you stand a better chance at getting an award than an Ass Kisser.
So now we have competitions on the weekend and car shows during the week at cruise nights because that is a public display not a competition. What we did at Togus was a "show" for the veterans.
Or as the Dominance of props at the weekend Competitions increases, we might be able to actually call them Car Productions.
Now I need a recipe for Horse...Maybe meatloaf.
As always Bill makes some excellent points and rightly so as he was there and with that the discussion about Telstar is done. I didn't go, I was at Hebron.
But I will discuss Car Shows in General.
Are they really Car Shows, or are they more of a Wax Competition. You know, who is cleanest or shiniest, has a vacuum that can out suck ... well we won't go there. But you see how the perception can alter the way we look at it.
Aren't most peer vote shows a Popularity Contest or in some cases an Ass Kissing Contest. In Combination with shiny paint and a firm handshake I dare say that with the right flavored lip balm even I could get an award. We all know that scenario ain't going to happen. You can see how that could work though don't you.
Judged shows are a joke, at least around here. With the talent pool ranging from wet behind the ear kids and volunteer Fireman to Used Car Salesmen and a plumber, it's no wonder a judged show is a joke.
So we don't have a show in the sense of just showing, we have competitions. As one of the many meanings of the word "show" the first one found as a verb at Dictionary.com says; to cause or allow to be seen; exhibit; display. Nothing mentioned even remotely close to competition in any of the meanings that I found.
After going to several National Events IE Atlantic Nationals in Moncton or the Northeast Nats in Burlington and seeing how certain awards are given to really deserving people the one dominate thing is this. Out of the 1600 or more cars that show up at these "Shows" only about 50 clean/kiss ass so that they can get a "PRO'S " pick. Which is a manufacturers representative, who use to be a wet behind the ears kid, who picks a car to best advertise their product. Such as a PPG award for "best use of color" goes to a really good paint job even if its Dupont or House of Kolor. The rep can't tell what brand, hell, he just dropped the part time pizza delivery job last week.
The other awards are given to both the car and the owner. Great Car with an Asshole of an owner, no awards. You have to deserve the award not just kiss ass for it. You built it, you drove it, you helped out a friend building his, and you promote the hobby where ever you go. Even if your vehicle is slightly better than average or even less you stand a better chance at getting an award than an Ass Kisser.
So now we have competitions on the weekend and car shows during the week at cruise nights because that is a public display not a competition. What we did at Togus was a "show" for the veterans.
Or as the Dominance of props at the weekend Competitions increases, we might be able to actually call them Car Productions.
Now I need a recipe for Horse...Maybe meatloaf.
8/16/09
Best Day
Today about 300 cars, trucks, rods, tiques, and every means of enclosed conveyance, along with about 150 motorcycles invaded a Federal Facility without violence or resistance.
This Invasion was the Annual BBQ at Togus VA Hospital that the Rusty Nuts Car Club does to Honor the hospitalized Veterans who defended our right to gather and fought for our Country so that we have the Freedoms we know as America.
Leading a group into this event was a pleasure and seeing the faces of the rookie participants was absolutely priceless.
Nothing I can write would do this event justice. You really need to be there, as a description would be inadequate.
It wasn't about us. It was about them, the veterans.
Best day.
Thank You for Making it a Pleasure
This Invasion was the Annual BBQ at Togus VA Hospital that the Rusty Nuts Car Club does to Honor the hospitalized Veterans who defended our right to gather and fought for our Country so that we have the Freedoms we know as America.
Leading a group into this event was a pleasure and seeing the faces of the rookie participants was absolutely priceless.
Nothing I can write would do this event justice. You really need to be there, as a description would be inadequate.
It wasn't about us. It was about them, the veterans.
Best day.
Thank You for Making it a Pleasure
8/15/09
Imagine
Picture in your mind a peaceful day of August in which a small tranquil field slowly fills with cars and trucks. The silence only broken by the cackle of exhaust or a greeting from an old friend. People who greet each other with a smile or a handshake and some even a hug. Even some of the greatest rivals greeted each other with respect and a cup of coffee.
Is this an imaginary world only to be found in your dreams. Or is it possible that on the hottest day of the summer, an aspect of our hobby could show up the best organized shows in the State. Where a field filled with 188 cars of every color & shape could exist without a clash of egos or personalities, where a virtual babe in the woods on his first voyage to the land of Rods could be presented with the biggest award of the day.
A day where the only complaint heard was about it being to far to get to a bathroom.
This was Down East Street Rod's Rod Run at Hebron Pines Campground and it was great .
Is this an imaginary world only to be found in your dreams. Or is it possible that on the hottest day of the summer, an aspect of our hobby could show up the best organized shows in the State. Where a field filled with 188 cars of every color & shape could exist without a clash of egos or personalities, where a virtual babe in the woods on his first voyage to the land of Rods could be presented with the biggest award of the day.
A day where the only complaint heard was about it being to far to get to a bathroom.
This was Down East Street Rod's Rod Run at Hebron Pines Campground and it was great .
8/12/09
Cash For Clunkers From the Inside
You see I have a different view than most for whatever reason that seems to take some people aback.
I like my view.
Cash for clunkers or how the alarmists will scream bloody murder, is not really as bad for the collector car market as a lot of people would have us believe. Yes it has its flaws but the present market for used and re-manufactured parts may soon have a glut with overstocks and lower prices. How? Keep reading.
A Car is traded in, under the current Cash for Clunkers rules and is taken to a recycler where the vehicle is disabled under the supervision of the trading dealer or it is disabled at the dealer before being brought to the recycling facility. The hoops of paper work and regulations that the recycler and dealer are made to jump through is as redundant as any other Govt. Projects.
The way they disable the vehicle, is they blow the engine so it may not be reused or rebuilt. This process is rather simple with the oil being drained and a substance referred to as "Liquid Glass" replacing it. This stuff heats up and seizes the engine completely while ruining any hope of salvaging any moving parts within the engine.
So now the vehicle is disabled and nothing in all the hoops says that the other parts of the vehicle can't be removed and reused like transmissions, pumps, body components etc.
Now a good business man can see the unbelievable potential of wharehousing these parts and selling them off as needed.
I see this as being the recycling of a shell of a vehicle and solidified engine being crushed rather than the terrible horror predicted by many of the enthusiast community. Qualified vehicles are not antiques or classics just Clunkers.
I like my view.
I like my view.
Cash for clunkers or how the alarmists will scream bloody murder, is not really as bad for the collector car market as a lot of people would have us believe. Yes it has its flaws but the present market for used and re-manufactured parts may soon have a glut with overstocks and lower prices. How? Keep reading.
A Car is traded in, under the current Cash for Clunkers rules and is taken to a recycler where the vehicle is disabled under the supervision of the trading dealer or it is disabled at the dealer before being brought to the recycling facility. The hoops of paper work and regulations that the recycler and dealer are made to jump through is as redundant as any other Govt. Projects.
The way they disable the vehicle, is they blow the engine so it may not be reused or rebuilt. This process is rather simple with the oil being drained and a substance referred to as "Liquid Glass" replacing it. This stuff heats up and seizes the engine completely while ruining any hope of salvaging any moving parts within the engine.
So now the vehicle is disabled and nothing in all the hoops says that the other parts of the vehicle can't be removed and reused like transmissions, pumps, body components etc.
Now a good business man can see the unbelievable potential of wharehousing these parts and selling them off as needed.
I see this as being the recycling of a shell of a vehicle and solidified engine being crushed rather than the terrible horror predicted by many of the enthusiast community. Qualified vehicles are not antiques or classics just Clunkers.
I like my view.
8/11/09
East Auburn Baptist Church
I owe this a redo as it kinda got slammed in an earlier post.
East Auburn Baptist Church is having its First Show on Saturday the 15th. The location is great and food and entertainment is planned. Classes, peer judging, good weather forecast, with great friends. Registration opens at 7 and it will be $5 at the gate. Hope I got that right.
I will not be in attendance due to other commitments about 10 miles up the road.
However if you plan on attending this show, Park Ave. is rough if you come in from the Mount Auburn Ave. end. The Court Street end is much smoother and may be the best way to go.
With any luck this show will be a success. With any luck I can get the dates of the 2 other somewhat nearby events to the Organizer before they set next years date.
I want to go too.
East Auburn Baptist Church is having its First Show on Saturday the 15th. The location is great and food and entertainment is planned. Classes, peer judging, good weather forecast, with great friends. Registration opens at 7 and it will be $5 at the gate. Hope I got that right.
I will not be in attendance due to other commitments about 10 miles up the road.
However if you plan on attending this show, Park Ave. is rough if you come in from the Mount Auburn Ave. end. The Court Street end is much smoother and may be the best way to go.
With any luck this show will be a success. With any luck I can get the dates of the 2 other somewhat nearby events to the Organizer before they set next years date.
I want to go too.
8/10/09
Next Page
Absolutely Hilarious: To listen to mature grown men claim, who is right and who is wrong over a Cheap Ass Trophy. To listen to grown up people with years of experience and wisdom bicker and fight over who has the biggest willie. Next Page.
Here is a fact: There is not one(1) Professionally Produced Car Show in The State of Maine. Meaning that a producer of car shows like the World of Wheels or Autorama does not promote an in State Show. This means all Car Shows are Amateur attempts to raise money for volunteer fire departments, School programs, non profit organizations or just for the hell of it. A Judged show in this State is judged by people who think they know cars, Key Word Is Think, and these people deserve to have their heads examined. They are not paid professionals. Next Page.
Get Over It: Special Interest is a Dumping Ground for vehicles that don't fit in any other class due to Owner Request, Customization, Poaching, Ineptitude at the gate or any other reason that blows around in the wind. Unless You, Me or the Other Guy is willing to sit down with each group and train them as to the class structure and meaning of each class, this will continue. Giving them a Manual From someone they don't know or have ever heard of is like demanding they do it by the Book. Ain't Gonna Happen, ask the Shriners. Screaming about it from the top of Mount Olympus can be compared to teaching a pig to sing. It's a waste of Time and pisses off the pig. Next Page.
Props: This is not a word for accolades, praise or tribute. A prop is used on the stage in a theater or movies, or as part of a boat motor to move the boat thru the water. If you need to use Props to sell your vehicle for the votes it needs to obtain your much needed award, you may want to rethink your presentation. Are they voting for the vehicle or the prop. Time out kids have timed out, Stuffed animals are for small children and yes the surf board should be in the water. Next Page.
Tension: I ain't talking about tight fan belts. If Car Shows continue in the manner of the past 2 years with nothing but politics and back stabbing and a general lack off fun, then they will cease to exist or become invitation only. At times at recent Car Shows you can cut the tension in the air with a knife. This is due to the fact of a certain group of people and I do mean group, that have nothing better to do than gripe and point out the flaws in each and every show they attend. If that's all you have to do, do it at home and quit making my life miserable by your presence. I came to have fun. If I have to Look over my shoulder every time I have a conversation, because it may be cause for this groups ire. I'm Not Having Fun.
Next Page.
Here is a fact: There is not one(1) Professionally Produced Car Show in The State of Maine. Meaning that a producer of car shows like the World of Wheels or Autorama does not promote an in State Show. This means all Car Shows are Amateur attempts to raise money for volunteer fire departments, School programs, non profit organizations or just for the hell of it. A Judged show in this State is judged by people who think they know cars, Key Word Is Think, and these people deserve to have their heads examined. They are not paid professionals. Next Page.
Get Over It: Special Interest is a Dumping Ground for vehicles that don't fit in any other class due to Owner Request, Customization, Poaching, Ineptitude at the gate or any other reason that blows around in the wind. Unless You, Me or the Other Guy is willing to sit down with each group and train them as to the class structure and meaning of each class, this will continue. Giving them a Manual From someone they don't know or have ever heard of is like demanding they do it by the Book. Ain't Gonna Happen, ask the Shriners. Screaming about it from the top of Mount Olympus can be compared to teaching a pig to sing. It's a waste of Time and pisses off the pig. Next Page.
Props: This is not a word for accolades, praise or tribute. A prop is used on the stage in a theater or movies, or as part of a boat motor to move the boat thru the water. If you need to use Props to sell your vehicle for the votes it needs to obtain your much needed award, you may want to rethink your presentation. Are they voting for the vehicle or the prop. Time out kids have timed out, Stuffed animals are for small children and yes the surf board should be in the water. Next Page.
Tension: I ain't talking about tight fan belts. If Car Shows continue in the manner of the past 2 years with nothing but politics and back stabbing and a general lack off fun, then they will cease to exist or become invitation only. At times at recent Car Shows you can cut the tension in the air with a knife. This is due to the fact of a certain group of people and I do mean group, that have nothing better to do than gripe and point out the flaws in each and every show they attend. If that's all you have to do, do it at home and quit making my life miserable by your presence. I came to have fun. If I have to Look over my shoulder every time I have a conversation, because it may be cause for this groups ire. I'm Not Having Fun.
Next Page.
8/9/09
Togus Run
The Togus Run and BBQ that is put on by the Rusty Nuts Car Club is Next Sunday the 16th of August.
If you have never done this Run you are missing a great way to pay tribute to our veterans that are stuck in the Hospital at Togus. These Guys and Girls who put it on the line for us, to enjoy our hobby, with the freedom we have, deserve every thank you we can give them.
The Rusty Nuts have organized a few meeting places to cruise together, however they don't really have a spot in the L/A area to gather and go. Over the last couple of years I have led a small contingent from the Lewiston Marden's up RT 202 to Togus. The tiquer's like this route due to the speed factor and I also find it more pleasant than the Highway.
The Run itself is a combination of organizations that includes many Car Clubs and Veteran Service Organizations that include the American Legion and VFW. This event also includes the Motorcycle Groups from the Patriot Riders, Legion Riders and Rolling Thunder.
The entrance of these groups is a sight to see and an awesome sound to say the least.
So if you are interested in cruising together to Togus VA Hospital I will Be leading and leaving from the Lewiston Marden's parking lot on Main St. in Lewiston at 9:30AM sharp.
They usually have a small opening ceremony and a few little speeches then the eats hit the grill and its on to food and good conversations with friends and acquaintances for the remainder of the afternoon. Oh did I mention the Giveaways and the Auction that they also do to support the veterans fund that was established for the Patients. Thats fun and a good cause.
There is however a downside, there will be no awards as this is not a car show. It's a hell of a good time, so leave your ego at home and come join the real world just for the day.
I have a message for Thomas, put a Hot Rod Pepsi in your hand sit down and go to Togus, Deb will enjoy herself and you might to. Who knows it could be Fun.
If you have never done this Run you are missing a great way to pay tribute to our veterans that are stuck in the Hospital at Togus. These Guys and Girls who put it on the line for us, to enjoy our hobby, with the freedom we have, deserve every thank you we can give them.
The Rusty Nuts have organized a few meeting places to cruise together, however they don't really have a spot in the L/A area to gather and go. Over the last couple of years I have led a small contingent from the Lewiston Marden's up RT 202 to Togus. The tiquer's like this route due to the speed factor and I also find it more pleasant than the Highway.
The Run itself is a combination of organizations that includes many Car Clubs and Veteran Service Organizations that include the American Legion and VFW. This event also includes the Motorcycle Groups from the Patriot Riders, Legion Riders and Rolling Thunder.
The entrance of these groups is a sight to see and an awesome sound to say the least.
So if you are interested in cruising together to Togus VA Hospital I will Be leading and leaving from the Lewiston Marden's parking lot on Main St. in Lewiston at 9:30AM sharp.
They usually have a small opening ceremony and a few little speeches then the eats hit the grill and its on to food and good conversations with friends and acquaintances for the remainder of the afternoon. Oh did I mention the Giveaways and the Auction that they also do to support the veterans fund that was established for the Patients. Thats fun and a good cause.
There is however a downside, there will be no awards as this is not a car show. It's a hell of a good time, so leave your ego at home and come join the real world just for the day.
I have a message for Thomas, put a Hot Rod Pepsi in your hand sit down and go to Togus, Deb will enjoy herself and you might to. Who knows it could be Fun.
8/6/09
Update For The Dark Side
Big Mike sends me a comment from his trip to the Ainslee's Cruise Night. The Comment has to do with Litchfield Fire Dept Show on Sunday. They will have NO Custom Class. But will have Special Interest, and the usual other classes.
My faith in the Organizers of this show has Faltered since being greeted at the Gate last year with Street Rods Open, because I run without a hood. DUH!
Now with NO Custom Class, the Same Shit Different Day syndrome is upon you at this show.
Luckily for me I have to be with the Family and will miss this fiasco.
Have Fun with That.
Don't Forget The Cruise Night At Hodgman's Frozen Custard on Saturday
My faith in the Organizers of this show has Faltered since being greeted at the Gate last year with Street Rods Open, because I run without a hood. DUH!
Now with NO Custom Class, the Same Shit Different Day syndrome is upon you at this show.
Luckily for me I have to be with the Family and will miss this fiasco.
Have Fun with That.
Don't Forget The Cruise Night At Hodgman's Frozen Custard on Saturday
8/4/09
I Stayed Home...
...because I didn't want to start an argument. or say something in front of a lot of people that could cause bad feelings. Why you may ask. Because I don't agree with certain aspects of this controversy on Special Interest.
Now having had experience in organizing a very large Show for many years, including being the top dog in charge for 3 years running, I know that putting on a show is no easy task. Uptown Kruizah's did one hell of a job putting on the Show on Sunday past.
My opinion of Special Interest is this. Of the entries in that class technically only 2 belonged in it. The Fire Truck and the Federal Truck. On the logical side only the Crapo Van and Motorcycle should have been asked to leave completely and the drag truck (s-10) should have been put in Modified 2wd Trucks. The Mini Cooper back in Imports.
Oscar and the 62 Galaxie did not belong in a 60's class. The reason, Custom. It doesn't belong with stockers. A logical and reasonable result would be where it was, in Special Interest. RedSled, the 51 Ford, same reason with the same result. With other Cars running into trouble at other Shows, in the 50's class due to the Modifications made, they to need to be in Special Interest.
You see a Customized car does not belong in a stock class. If there is a custom class, then it belongs in that class. If there isn't a class for a fine specimen of craftsmanship, some would have us believe they should be turned away. I myself see room for latitude in the Special Interest category, because it is unique, because it is one of a kind and only one was built. No 2 Customs are identical. Talk to the Kings of the Lead Sleds, George Barris, Gene Winfield and Bo Huff and they'll tell you exactly that.
As far as the debate on Style or Theme its all semantics. Surf Woodie has a Theme but lacks style as so many PT's are readily available for customizing, whereas RedSled has style, IE a Lead Sled that is not readily available at the local used car lot and it does have a theme, The 1950's way of building a car or if you will allow me Old School.
The one thing we must remember is that car shows are supposed to be fun. As of late there seems to be less and less fun and way to much other crap, like focusing on the faults in the show and the organizers. If your style is to point fault and your theme is to cause hard feelings with controversy and a closed mind, then the whole argument lacks class.
We need to get back to the fun.
Now having had experience in organizing a very large Show for many years, including being the top dog in charge for 3 years running, I know that putting on a show is no easy task. Uptown Kruizah's did one hell of a job putting on the Show on Sunday past.
My opinion of Special Interest is this. Of the entries in that class technically only 2 belonged in it. The Fire Truck and the Federal Truck. On the logical side only the Crapo Van and Motorcycle should have been asked to leave completely and the drag truck (s-10) should have been put in Modified 2wd Trucks. The Mini Cooper back in Imports.
Oscar and the 62 Galaxie did not belong in a 60's class. The reason, Custom. It doesn't belong with stockers. A logical and reasonable result would be where it was, in Special Interest. RedSled, the 51 Ford, same reason with the same result. With other Cars running into trouble at other Shows, in the 50's class due to the Modifications made, they to need to be in Special Interest.
You see a Customized car does not belong in a stock class. If there is a custom class, then it belongs in that class. If there isn't a class for a fine specimen of craftsmanship, some would have us believe they should be turned away. I myself see room for latitude in the Special Interest category, because it is unique, because it is one of a kind and only one was built. No 2 Customs are identical. Talk to the Kings of the Lead Sleds, George Barris, Gene Winfield and Bo Huff and they'll tell you exactly that.
As far as the debate on Style or Theme its all semantics. Surf Woodie has a Theme but lacks style as so many PT's are readily available for customizing, whereas RedSled has style, IE a Lead Sled that is not readily available at the local used car lot and it does have a theme, The 1950's way of building a car or if you will allow me Old School.
The one thing we must remember is that car shows are supposed to be fun. As of late there seems to be less and less fun and way to much other crap, like focusing on the faults in the show and the organizers. If your style is to point fault and your theme is to cause hard feelings with controversy and a closed mind, then the whole argument lacks class.
We need to get back to the fun.
The 6 P's
Prior Planning Prevents Piss Poor Performance, and someone wasn't thinking about other shows on this one.
August 15 is a Clusterfuck. You see every year on this weekend the largest Rod Run in the State of Maine occurs in Hebron ME. Now I know that its geared toward the Street Rod Crowd, but they do allow up to 1972 on the field. So it is a niche event. The awards given are all hand made by different members and different clubs. It really starts on Thursday with Camping available. Its a Weekend event in the tradition of the Rod Runs of Old.
Enter Telstar, who disappeared and now reappears on the August 15th date. A new version of the old stuff with new faces and veterans (didn't I just say that about the New Balance Show).
The show was a mess when it went belly up due to Class Jumpers and Poachers, but now they want to judge it. Sounds like a great subject to write about after the fact.
Now into the mix enters the East Auburn Baptist Church, New Show, Great Venue and the Road in really Sucks. I don't know much about this one, but it is put on by a church, so show some respect.
So there you have it, 3 shows on a Saturday within 35 miles of each other. Nice, really nice
The bright spot is the Togus Run on Sunday. More on that later.
August 15 is a Clusterfuck. You see every year on this weekend the largest Rod Run in the State of Maine occurs in Hebron ME. Now I know that its geared toward the Street Rod Crowd, but they do allow up to 1972 on the field. So it is a niche event. The awards given are all hand made by different members and different clubs. It really starts on Thursday with Camping available. Its a Weekend event in the tradition of the Rod Runs of Old.
Enter Telstar, who disappeared and now reappears on the August 15th date. A new version of the old stuff with new faces and veterans (didn't I just say that about the New Balance Show).
The show was a mess when it went belly up due to Class Jumpers and Poachers, but now they want to judge it. Sounds like a great subject to write about after the fact.
Now into the mix enters the East Auburn Baptist Church, New Show, Great Venue and the Road in really Sucks. I don't know much about this one, but it is put on by a church, so show some respect.
So there you have it, 3 shows on a Saturday within 35 miles of each other. Nice, really nice
The bright spot is the Togus Run on Sunday. More on that later.
8/3/09
Just an Idea
How about we all just take a breath and think about this Special Interest Controversy that hangs over our heads like a wrecking ball.
Eliminate the Classification all together. Call it the "Whatever" Class, for Whatever Doesn't fit someplace else.
If one went by the "Theme" variation of special interest that has been proclaimed so loudly of late, IE Military, Firetruck, Alternative Energy and yes, even the Surf Woodie the class could grow to grotesque proportions. With such cars as the The Tweety Bird Nova, The SGT Rock Truck and the theme of my own car, having a legitimate way of getting into the class.
This controversy has gotten blown way out of proportion and needs to be put to rest. A body of people should not be held hostage by the fear of complaint after complaint after complaint from a class of vehicles that needs a babysitter.
Life is never fair, why would a hobby be any different. Getting in the organizers face and lodging a complaint the day of the show and expecting it cured instantly is both a fantasy and wrong.
I think everybody that was in yesterday's Special Interest Class, and I mean EVERYBODY, needs to think about one thing only.
Is Competeing for a $15.00 Cheap Ass Trophy worth becoming that big a "pain in ass" to the organizers, that may be thinking of not allowing special interest vehicles in at all because of the stink being raised.
After hearing the hammering on organizers about the misfortunes of Special Interest at many shows this year. The Subject is tired and needs a new perspective.
Drizzle Drazzle Druzzle Drone Time For This One To Go Home.
Eliminate the Classification all together. Call it the "Whatever" Class, for Whatever Doesn't fit someplace else.
If one went by the "Theme" variation of special interest that has been proclaimed so loudly of late, IE Military, Firetruck, Alternative Energy and yes, even the Surf Woodie the class could grow to grotesque proportions. With such cars as the The Tweety Bird Nova, The SGT Rock Truck and the theme of my own car, having a legitimate way of getting into the class.
This controversy has gotten blown way out of proportion and needs to be put to rest. A body of people should not be held hostage by the fear of complaint after complaint after complaint from a class of vehicles that needs a babysitter.
Life is never fair, why would a hobby be any different. Getting in the organizers face and lodging a complaint the day of the show and expecting it cured instantly is both a fantasy and wrong.
I think everybody that was in yesterday's Special Interest Class, and I mean EVERYBODY, needs to think about one thing only.
Is Competeing for a $15.00 Cheap Ass Trophy worth becoming that big a "pain in ass" to the organizers, that may be thinking of not allowing special interest vehicles in at all because of the stink being raised.
After hearing the hammering on organizers about the misfortunes of Special Interest at many shows this year. The Subject is tired and needs a new perspective.
Drizzle Drazzle Druzzle Drone Time For This One To Go Home.
8/2/09
New Balance Car Show
Well the weather was iffy, with mostly cloudy skies and fog. Somehow the Uptown Kruizah's had a connection with the man above and arranged for the skies to hold their load. Another great day broke out at some point and the Uptown Kruizah's put on a very good effort in their endeavor to put on their first Car Show.
Yes they had some complaints, with Special Interest being the Biggest and loudest of the areas in need of some work. They know, and are more than open to constructive opinions and ideas to improve the Show.
With this being a new club with a new show they did great and deserve a nod and a tip of the hat.
The glitches were to say the least normal for veteran shows and were handled with a good attitude. Next year will be better and input from the participants is wanted.
One comment I did hear was that this Show was a rehashed version of the old Lions Show. I told the guy that it wasn't because the dust wasn't present and I didn't think Russ Pratt would be any good as the Bean Lady, he agreed with the former and really agreed with the latter and said they'll be there next year if the club does it again.
Good Job. I had Fun. 2 Days in a row. Must finally be Summer
Yes they had some complaints, with Special Interest being the Biggest and loudest of the areas in need of some work. They know, and are more than open to constructive opinions and ideas to improve the Show.
With this being a new club with a new show they did great and deserve a nod and a tip of the hat.
The glitches were to say the least normal for veteran shows and were handled with a good attitude. Next year will be better and input from the participants is wanted.
One comment I did hear was that this Show was a rehashed version of the old Lions Show. I told the guy that it wasn't because the dust wasn't present and I didn't think Russ Pratt would be any good as the Bean Lady, he agreed with the former and really agreed with the latter and said they'll be there next year if the club does it again.
Good Job. I had Fun. 2 Days in a row. Must finally be Summer
8/1/09
Another Show That Was
So there I was at Andover when suddenly a great day broke out. The Western Maine Street Rodders again pulled out a great show. But like all things we have begun to see the dark side in all things and this had a spot, not side. Great Show, 200+ cars and a douche bag.
The person doing the imitation of a 40's Car with a 60's Car is a local hero, who has the charm of a used Condom and the personality of a plank. This guy thinks he is gods gift to something and we just think he is Something.
Other than that it was a great day
Tomorrow, Oxford rain or shine
It's supposed to be sunny
This next portion added at 10:50PM
From the Comments I'm getting, everybody had a good day, because we all had Fun and it doesn't really matter what I say or think as long as we had fun. A badly run show only takes away as much fun as you allow it to.
Tomorrow is a fairly new club with a brand new show and a few veterans thrown in for good measure. As long as its fun everybody will be fine.
The person doing the imitation of a 40's Car with a 60's Car is a local hero, who has the charm of a used Condom and the personality of a plank. This guy thinks he is gods gift to something and we just think he is Something.
Other than that it was a great day
Tomorrow, Oxford rain or shine
It's supposed to be sunny
This next portion added at 10:50PM
From the Comments I'm getting, everybody had a good day, because we all had Fun and it doesn't really matter what I say or think as long as we had fun. A badly run show only takes away as much fun as you allow it to.
Tomorrow is a fairly new club with a brand new show and a few veterans thrown in for good measure. As long as its fun everybody will be fine.
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