We now have the pix up from the Hemmings Concours show in Vermont. The photos are courtesy of Jim & Connie Peacock.
This gallery consists of three pages of 60 photos each, for a total of 180 pix. Due to the massive amount of server space these galleries take up, they will only be available for a few days - they will have to come down by 8/15, to make room on the server for more shows.
Until then, enjoy them at the Gallery.
/
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Jumping the Fence
Someone posted a comment asking what is meant by class-jumping. While it is somewhat self-explanatory and has been defined in previous posts, perhaps it is time to explain it again, for those who may be new to shows.
Each vehicle has a class to which it belongs (or even two or more). Class-jumping became the phrase used to describe moving (jumping) a vehicle from one class to another, for the express purpose of increasing the chance for winning. For example, a foreign car that heads to the Foreign class, but the competition is too stiff so he goes to another class where the competition is milder and less threatening. In some cases, if that class also becomes crowded, he might jump to yet another class.
Since then, class-jumping has been expanded to include those who enter classes in which they do not rightly belong, again for the express purpose of increasing their chances of winning.
Most old-timers call it "trophy poaching".
Fortunately, only one or two "jumpers" can be found at any given show. As a rule, the car folks are honest and above board, but there will always be those who have no problem with poaching. A few even believe it to be an acceptable practice - or at least they convince themselves of that so they can fool themselves into thinking they actually won. The reality is somewhat different - those who jump, or register in classes not appropriate may, indeed, take home a trophy, but they do not win. They lose!
/
Each vehicle has a class to which it belongs (or even two or more). Class-jumping became the phrase used to describe moving (jumping) a vehicle from one class to another, for the express purpose of increasing the chance for winning. For example, a foreign car that heads to the Foreign class, but the competition is too stiff so he goes to another class where the competition is milder and less threatening. In some cases, if that class also becomes crowded, he might jump to yet another class.
Since then, class-jumping has been expanded to include those who enter classes in which they do not rightly belong, again for the express purpose of increasing their chances of winning.
Most old-timers call it "trophy poaching".
Fortunately, only one or two "jumpers" can be found at any given show. As a rule, the car folks are honest and above board, but there will always be those who have no problem with poaching. A few even believe it to be an acceptable practice - or at least they convince themselves of that so they can fool themselves into thinking they actually won. The reality is somewhat different - those who jump, or register in classes not appropriate may, indeed, take home a trophy, but they do not win. They lose!
/
Galleries
Someone made an excellent point about crossing off the entrants class to prvent voting for thyself.
Now, I have the following galleries etc. up:
Standish show
Standish Winner's Circle
Best Of...Standish (please vote for your favorite)
A new Featured Vehicle of the Week
A couple of new Funnies.
Still working on the Vermont Concours - will be three sets of 60 pix each (180 total).
Enjoy!
/
Now, I have the following galleries etc. up:
Standish show
Standish Winner's Circle
Best Of...Standish (please vote for your favorite)
A new Featured Vehicle of the Week
A couple of new Funnies.
Still working on the Vermont Concours - will be three sets of 60 pix each (180 total).
Enjoy!
/
Kiwanis Beach
Ah-h-h! What a GORGEOUS day for a show. Sun shining, breeze blowing. And the shaded beach made for an almost idyllic setting. A small show - about 80 vehicles - to be sure, but another winner for Kiwanis, in general.
The show's organizer spoke with me, and already knew there were some glitches that he wanted to fix for next year. And that is always a good sign for any show.
Aside from a foreign vehicle that was out of its class, I did not notice any class-jumping. But then, I was having a good time and may not have been as observant as some others.
In fact, I did not observe one other problem - a major one - until several folks brought it to my attention. It seems that some folks were walking around with handfuls of ballots - and not all of them were staff. At first, I thought they were joshing me, to get me going. But I looked around and saw that, yes, some folks were filling out multiple ballots. It was reminiscent of the Minnesota Senate race, where there were more ballots than there were registered voters.
I then decided to double-check, and spent about 30 minutes watching the ballot box, and in that short period one person stuffed in a mittful, and another individual returned a half dozen times to put in additional ballots.
Now, I cannot be sure this had any effect of the results, but I cannot imagine how it wouldn't. Something was not kosher in the balloting.
I am pleased to say, however, that I saw no sign of this among the folks in our class, but I did feel bad for the people who were entered in the same classes as those who were stuffing the ballot box.
I sincerely hope the Kiwanis staff put some effort into controlling the dispersal of ballots next year.
Aside from that one issue, and the one vehicle out of class, it was a very, very nice show. And I am particularly pleased that the home-made electric car in Special Interest finally took home a well-deserved trophy.
I'll be trying to get the galleries up tonight, along with one or two more "funnies" for your enjoyment, and a new FEATURED VEHICLE.
And I would really, really like to express my personal heartfelt thanks to all those who provided words of encouragement for HotKarz. It is very much appreciated, and nice to know that so many of you want to work toward improving things for all.
SIDE NOTE: I tried the so-called Lens Renewer" kit by "For Life Products", the same folks whose advertising is so misleading. I am posting BEFORE and AFTER pix. Frankly, the BEFORE pix are better than the after, so it looks like this is yet another scam by For Life Products Inc. You can decide for yourselves.
/
The show's organizer spoke with me, and already knew there were some glitches that he wanted to fix for next year. And that is always a good sign for any show.
Aside from a foreign vehicle that was out of its class, I did not notice any class-jumping. But then, I was having a good time and may not have been as observant as some others.
In fact, I did not observe one other problem - a major one - until several folks brought it to my attention. It seems that some folks were walking around with handfuls of ballots - and not all of them were staff. At first, I thought they were joshing me, to get me going. But I looked around and saw that, yes, some folks were filling out multiple ballots. It was reminiscent of the Minnesota Senate race, where there were more ballots than there were registered voters.
I then decided to double-check, and spent about 30 minutes watching the ballot box, and in that short period one person stuffed in a mittful, and another individual returned a half dozen times to put in additional ballots.
Now, I cannot be sure this had any effect of the results, but I cannot imagine how it wouldn't. Something was not kosher in the balloting.
I am pleased to say, however, that I saw no sign of this among the folks in our class, but I did feel bad for the people who were entered in the same classes as those who were stuffing the ballot box.
I sincerely hope the Kiwanis staff put some effort into controlling the dispersal of ballots next year.
Aside from that one issue, and the one vehicle out of class, it was a very, very nice show. And I am particularly pleased that the home-made electric car in Special Interest finally took home a well-deserved trophy.
I'll be trying to get the galleries up tonight, along with one or two more "funnies" for your enjoyment, and a new FEATURED VEHICLE.
And I would really, really like to express my personal heartfelt thanks to all those who provided words of encouragement for HotKarz. It is very much appreciated, and nice to know that so many of you want to work toward improving things for all.
SIDE NOTE: I tried the so-called Lens Renewer" kit by "For Life Products", the same folks whose advertising is so misleading. I am posting BEFORE and AFTER pix. Frankly, the BEFORE pix are better than the after, so it looks like this is yet another scam by For Life Products Inc. You can decide for yourselves.
/
Friday, August 7, 2009
Funnies
If you are new to HotKarz.com, don't forget to check out the FUNNIES. For all you ol' timers, there's a new one up.
Workin' on getting up some pix of the Hemmings Concours Invitational in Vermont. The pix are courtesy of Jim & Connie Peacock. Hope to have them up by Monday, so check back - some really righteous rides that few of us have seen.
/
Workin' on getting up some pix of the Hemmings Concours Invitational in Vermont. The pix are courtesy of Jim & Connie Peacock. Hope to have them up by Monday, so check back - some really righteous rides that few of us have seen.
/
Stay Away From REJUVENATE
You have seen the ad on TV, hyped by a NASCAR driver. Unless you want to get taken for a ride (and not in a NASCAR vehicle), you would do well to stay away from this product and the company that markets it (For Life Products Inc.)
Their advertising is VERY misleading, and even phony. For example, on their testimonials page they have two testimonials from two different people 3000 miles apart. BOTH testimonials repeat, word for word, the following: "This product doesn't just work as advertised, it's AMAZING! Not only is washing your car faster and more earth-friendly...". What are the odds two people would say the EXACT same thing. Can you spell B-O-G-U-S?
And their offer says you get microfiber towels and a lens cleaning kit ABSOLUTELY FREE! Nope. Won't happen. Not unless you specifically REQUEST them, and agree to pay an exhorbitant EXTRA amount of shipping. Is that "FREE"? No.
The company, in my opinion, is one of the worst rip-offs I have seen lately. If you fall for their TV spiel, don't say you were not warned.
/
Their advertising is VERY misleading, and even phony. For example, on their testimonials page they have two testimonials from two different people 3000 miles apart. BOTH testimonials repeat, word for word, the following: "This product doesn't just work as advertised, it's AMAZING! Not only is washing your car faster and more earth-friendly...". What are the odds two people would say the EXACT same thing. Can you spell B-O-G-U-S?
And their offer says you get microfiber towels and a lens cleaning kit ABSOLUTELY FREE! Nope. Won't happen. Not unless you specifically REQUEST them, and agree to pay an exhorbitant EXTRA amount of shipping. Is that "FREE"? No.
The company, in my opinion, is one of the worst rip-offs I have seen lately. If you fall for their TV spiel, don't say you were not warned.
/
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Video
For those of you who attended the Stratham Hill Boy Scouts Car Show in NH last year (many of you did), there is a YOUTUBE video of the show that features almost every car there. You can check it out at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WfWnzJMBtvE
I am attempting to get more info on their show for this year. So far, all I have is that it is scheduled for October 4th.
/
I am attempting to get more info on their show for this year. So far, all I have is that it is scheduled for October 4th.
/
Andover Best
We finally have the Best of the Best of the Andover show up. Please visit, and cast your vote. And while you are at it, visit the Oxford BEST OF page and vote for your fave.
If you are new, you may visit each of the BEST OF pages and cast one vote on each show. Competition ends September 26, the day before the Durham Show. Awards will be presented at the Durham Show.
/
If you are new, you may visit each of the BEST OF pages and cast one vote on each show. Competition ends September 26, the day before the Durham Show. Awards will be presented at the Durham Show.
/
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
The Conversation
At Cumberland on Tuesday we ran into Selden. He showed us his new sneakers - the velcro crossovers were CHROME, of all things.
Here is the conversation that ensued:
ROBIN: "Nice shoes, Seldon. But why chrome?"
SELDEN: "Well, I wanted the red and white ones, but Polly didn't like 'em."
ROBIN: "Why on Earth would you want red and white ones?"
SELDEN: "To match my car."
ROBIN: "Which car?"
SELDEN: "The red and white one."
I couldn't take anymore and sauntered off to whack my head against a post somewhere.
/
Here is the conversation that ensued:
ROBIN: "Nice shoes, Seldon. But why chrome?"
SELDEN: "Well, I wanted the red and white ones, but Polly didn't like 'em."
ROBIN: "Why on Earth would you want red and white ones?"
SELDEN: "To match my car."
ROBIN: "Which car?"
SELDEN: "The red and white one."
I couldn't take anymore and sauntered off to whack my head against a post somewhere.
/
Best of the Best, Oxford
The voting gallery is now up for the Best of the Best participants from the Oxford show. Don't forget to cast your vote for your favorite.
These awards will be presented at the Durham, Maine show.
/
These awards will be presented at the Durham, Maine show.
/
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Surprise! (Not)
Now here is a real surprise - both of Maine's esteemed Senators have decided to back the expansion of the Cash For Clunkers program.
This is not really a political post, per se. It is a post about doing harm to the folks of Maine, and the nation, and doing harm to car buffs who depend on the availability of used car parts.
Think about it - poor people, and young families just starting out cannot afford new cars, so they have no choice but to drive, and keep, "clunkers". The program does not help them at all. At one time or another, most of you experienced that, personally. But as those used cars get taken out of the mix, they become more scarce. And this increases the price of any used cars still available. The poor get screwed - again.
My neighbors son wanted to buy a $1200 used car last week. The seller wanted $4000 because he could get $4500 as a trade-in. Would YOU sell him a car for $1200 if you could get $4500? This stupid bill is pricing the poor right out of transportation.
But that is not all. Clunkers tend to need parts - often. But as the parts cars get crushed, parts become more scarce, and therefore more expensive. The poor, the young, and even YOU will have a harder time finding parts at a reasonable price. The poor get screwed a second time.
But here's the clincher - under the program, some Hummers and SUV's qualify as "green" cars. You can actually trade in a clunker for a Hummer!
Another clincher - the average MPG difference between the clunker being traded and the new vehicle is just 1 MPG. ONE!
Another clincher - although proponents try to say it stimulates the economy, I would ask you to think about that for a moment. Ask yourself how it stimulates the economy by first taking the money out via taxes, then putting it back in as a credit. There is NO net gain - they are only putting back what they took out. They could get just as much stimulus by letting us keep the taxes in the first place. The only difference would be WHO gets to spend it. Frankly, if someone gets to spend my money, I think it should be me, the person who earned it. Under this program, the money is taken from me and given to some other person to buy a new car. Hey, Washington, I could use a new car, too. Let me keep my own money so I can afford it.
So, this bill does not really reduce dependence on foreign oil (the majority of our oil imports come from Mexico and Canada. We get very little from the Arab countries). And it stimulates nothing, except my anger at the government for taking my money to buy some other clown a car.
And now for the REAL clincher, folks - think just for a moment as to where all that money is really going to end up. In the pockets of Big Auto - you know, the same Big Auto we already bailed out at a cost of nearly 20 billion. They get these credits. And more than 50% of the cars being traded for are Asian imports, so 50% of the profits from Cash for Clunkers is going overseas. This program is designed to benefit Big Auto, the UAW and the administration, who is using this to keep all those union votes on the Democratic side of the ballot.
Does the person buying the new car get anything? Yes, he gets a bigger car payment, more debt. Do the poor get anything? Yes, they get screwed - again.
But both of our Senators are going to vote to expand Cash for Clunkers. Once again, they fall for something that looks good on the surface but is really bad. Like children let loose in a candy store, they dive in for the goodies, without even realizing the pain and cost that will come of it when they have to go to the dentist. They do not bother to discover the unintended consequences. I do not think either is intelligent enough to represent us.
But what really ticks me off is that, while the Senators are diving into the candy, you and I are the ones that will have to experience the pain and cost of the dentist.
Of course, if the good people of Maine were to stand up and be counted, and tell our senators not to vote for this travesty, maybe - just maybe - we can salvage just a little bit of what we have been losing lately.
/
This is not really a political post, per se. It is a post about doing harm to the folks of Maine, and the nation, and doing harm to car buffs who depend on the availability of used car parts.
Think about it - poor people, and young families just starting out cannot afford new cars, so they have no choice but to drive, and keep, "clunkers". The program does not help them at all. At one time or another, most of you experienced that, personally. But as those used cars get taken out of the mix, they become more scarce. And this increases the price of any used cars still available. The poor get screwed - again.
My neighbors son wanted to buy a $1200 used car last week. The seller wanted $4000 because he could get $4500 as a trade-in. Would YOU sell him a car for $1200 if you could get $4500? This stupid bill is pricing the poor right out of transportation.
But that is not all. Clunkers tend to need parts - often. But as the parts cars get crushed, parts become more scarce, and therefore more expensive. The poor, the young, and even YOU will have a harder time finding parts at a reasonable price. The poor get screwed a second time.
But here's the clincher - under the program, some Hummers and SUV's qualify as "green" cars. You can actually trade in a clunker for a Hummer!
Another clincher - the average MPG difference between the clunker being traded and the new vehicle is just 1 MPG. ONE!
Another clincher - although proponents try to say it stimulates the economy, I would ask you to think about that for a moment. Ask yourself how it stimulates the economy by first taking the money out via taxes, then putting it back in as a credit. There is NO net gain - they are only putting back what they took out. They could get just as much stimulus by letting us keep the taxes in the first place. The only difference would be WHO gets to spend it. Frankly, if someone gets to spend my money, I think it should be me, the person who earned it. Under this program, the money is taken from me and given to some other person to buy a new car. Hey, Washington, I could use a new car, too. Let me keep my own money so I can afford it.
So, this bill does not really reduce dependence on foreign oil (the majority of our oil imports come from Mexico and Canada. We get very little from the Arab countries). And it stimulates nothing, except my anger at the government for taking my money to buy some other clown a car.
And now for the REAL clincher, folks - think just for a moment as to where all that money is really going to end up. In the pockets of Big Auto - you know, the same Big Auto we already bailed out at a cost of nearly 20 billion. They get these credits. And more than 50% of the cars being traded for are Asian imports, so 50% of the profits from Cash for Clunkers is going overseas. This program is designed to benefit Big Auto, the UAW and the administration, who is using this to keep all those union votes on the Democratic side of the ballot.
Does the person buying the new car get anything? Yes, he gets a bigger car payment, more debt. Do the poor get anything? Yes, they get screwed - again.
But both of our Senators are going to vote to expand Cash for Clunkers. Once again, they fall for something that looks good on the surface but is really bad. Like children let loose in a candy store, they dive in for the goodies, without even realizing the pain and cost that will come of it when they have to go to the dentist. They do not bother to discover the unintended consequences. I do not think either is intelligent enough to represent us.
But what really ticks me off is that, while the Senators are diving into the candy, you and I are the ones that will have to experience the pain and cost of the dentist.
Of course, if the good people of Maine were to stand up and be counted, and tell our senators not to vote for this travesty, maybe - just maybe - we can salvage just a little bit of what we have been losing lately.
/
For Your Datebook
Flier just out - the folks that host the fabulous Cumberland Cruise (C.H.O.P.) on Tuesdays are once again putting on a Classic Car Show at the Cumberland Fair, October 1st. For more info, please check out the EVENTS page on HotKarz.com.
Vehicles must be at least 25 years old.
/
Vehicles must be at least 25 years old.
/
Nice Try...
Again, Mike has made a couple of good points in his most recent comment, but once again he is incorrect. Here is why:
While there may be PT Cruisers on the road, but you do not see Led Sleds running around, that does not constitute uniqueness. But first, please note I SPECIFICALLY stated I do not rely on the uniqueness of my car. It is the SPECIFIC, UNUSUAL THEME. That said...
When you go to SHOWS, Mike, how many Surf Woodies do you see? I have seen one other in the last 5 years. Now, how many Led Sleds? I have seen many - Ron's, Preacher's, and several others. So, even in that respect, as far as SHOWS are concerned (which is the venue we are talking about), I still have the edge on uniqueness, vs any led sled. Led Sleds, though very nice, simply are not unique in the realm of Car Shows. Maybe RedSled is unique in some small town that has never seen one, but in shows, they are not even close to unique. And we are talking about shows.
Nor does it have a theme. It seems you may be having difficulty understanding what a "theme" is. "Theme" is defined as a subject or an artistic piece that follows a specific motif; a unifying idea that is a recurrent element in an artistic work. In other words, you choose a TOPIC, such as military recon jeep, or surf woody, or Disney On Ice, or Tow Mater. Then you design and build the vehicle to follow the theme throughout, adding details that emphasize the chosen theme.
A led sled has no theme. Yes, it has a definite design pattern, a style, but that is not a theme. Tow Mater is a theme. Disney on Ice is a theme. Led Sleds have no theme.
We are not talking style, Mike. The Led Sled has a specific style, but no theme. Your Caddy has a particular style, but no theme. If you install a popcorn machine in the trunk, and paint the Caddy in Carny style, you would have a theme. If you painted it gloss black, put in bullet holes, tinted windows and dressed up like the Godfather, you might have a theme.
And having a specific paint job, or a couple of props does not necessarily create a theme, either, though in some cases it does. To create a theme that way, it needs to be followed through (recurrent) to the end, with numerous items, so when someone sees it, they say, "Oh, that car is all about...". It has to have a TOPIC. It must be ABOUT something. It is all in the detail. For Dan's Tweety Bird, if he had a small birdcage for a hood ornament, Sylvester lurking around, and a few other details, then it would begin to take on the aspects of a theme.
But even THAT is not justification for the car to be in special interest if there is a MORE VALID class available - and there is usually a class at every show for customs, Novas, etc. Cars should register in the MOST APPROPRIATE class available, as long as the vehicle legitimately fits the description. If a show has a PT Cruiser class, as the Moose Festival does, I enter in that, because it is MOST appropriate. When no PT class is available, I choose the next most appropriate class that I can legitimately justify. And more than once I simply went home because there was no appropriate class for me. I did not weasel my way into a class I did not belong in, just so I could show.
The Bud Bike has a theme - even the nut covers on the wheels are miniature budweiser cans. The sissy bar is a giant bottle opener. The tank is a giant Bud can. Every detail says BUDWEISER. It is not a style. It is a theme.
The 8 examples I posted all show a very clear, distinct theme that has been followed through from front to rear, top to bottom. Old Skool is not a theme - it is a style. Led sled is not a theme, it is a style.
I know it is difficult for some to differentiate between a style and a theme, but there is a difference. A big difference. And in most cases, that difference is TOPIC. If spectators can say, "Hey, that's about (the 60's surf craze, or the Godfather/mafia thing, or whatever)", it is probably a candidate for SI, but only if there is not a more appropriate class. To be SI using theme, it must be ABOUT A TOPIC, something specific that folks can relate to, and it must be more than a paint job or a prop or two. Those can add to the theme, but they are not the theme, itself.
Sorry, Mike, but I cannot explain it any better than that.
P.S. My lambo doors ARE merely "bolt ons". Feel free to check 'em out any time. No new holes drilled. No welds. No structural changes. Just bolt 'em on, and connect the wires going to the door. That's it! I know, because I did not need a "body man" to put them on. I did it myself, with a helping hand from a friend (it takes two - one to hold the door up while the other bolts it down). I can put the old hinges back on at any time.
/
While there may be PT Cruisers on the road, but you do not see Led Sleds running around, that does not constitute uniqueness. But first, please note I SPECIFICALLY stated I do not rely on the uniqueness of my car. It is the SPECIFIC, UNUSUAL THEME. That said...
When you go to SHOWS, Mike, how many Surf Woodies do you see? I have seen one other in the last 5 years. Now, how many Led Sleds? I have seen many - Ron's, Preacher's, and several others. So, even in that respect, as far as SHOWS are concerned (which is the venue we are talking about), I still have the edge on uniqueness, vs any led sled. Led Sleds, though very nice, simply are not unique in the realm of Car Shows. Maybe RedSled is unique in some small town that has never seen one, but in shows, they are not even close to unique. And we are talking about shows.
Nor does it have a theme. It seems you may be having difficulty understanding what a "theme" is. "Theme" is defined as a subject or an artistic piece that follows a specific motif; a unifying idea that is a recurrent element in an artistic work. In other words, you choose a TOPIC, such as military recon jeep, or surf woody, or Disney On Ice, or Tow Mater. Then you design and build the vehicle to follow the theme throughout, adding details that emphasize the chosen theme.
A led sled has no theme. Yes, it has a definite design pattern, a style, but that is not a theme. Tow Mater is a theme. Disney on Ice is a theme. Led Sleds have no theme.
We are not talking style, Mike. The Led Sled has a specific style, but no theme. Your Caddy has a particular style, but no theme. If you install a popcorn machine in the trunk, and paint the Caddy in Carny style, you would have a theme. If you painted it gloss black, put in bullet holes, tinted windows and dressed up like the Godfather, you might have a theme.
And having a specific paint job, or a couple of props does not necessarily create a theme, either, though in some cases it does. To create a theme that way, it needs to be followed through (recurrent) to the end, with numerous items, so when someone sees it, they say, "Oh, that car is all about...". It has to have a TOPIC. It must be ABOUT something. It is all in the detail. For Dan's Tweety Bird, if he had a small birdcage for a hood ornament, Sylvester lurking around, and a few other details, then it would begin to take on the aspects of a theme.
But even THAT is not justification for the car to be in special interest if there is a MORE VALID class available - and there is usually a class at every show for customs, Novas, etc. Cars should register in the MOST APPROPRIATE class available, as long as the vehicle legitimately fits the description. If a show has a PT Cruiser class, as the Moose Festival does, I enter in that, because it is MOST appropriate. When no PT class is available, I choose the next most appropriate class that I can legitimately justify. And more than once I simply went home because there was no appropriate class for me. I did not weasel my way into a class I did not belong in, just so I could show.
The Bud Bike has a theme - even the nut covers on the wheels are miniature budweiser cans. The sissy bar is a giant bottle opener. The tank is a giant Bud can. Every detail says BUDWEISER. It is not a style. It is a theme.
The 8 examples I posted all show a very clear, distinct theme that has been followed through from front to rear, top to bottom. Old Skool is not a theme - it is a style. Led sled is not a theme, it is a style.
I know it is difficult for some to differentiate between a style and a theme, but there is a difference. A big difference. And in most cases, that difference is TOPIC. If spectators can say, "Hey, that's about (the 60's surf craze, or the Godfather/mafia thing, or whatever)", it is probably a candidate for SI, but only if there is not a more appropriate class. To be SI using theme, it must be ABOUT A TOPIC, something specific that folks can relate to, and it must be more than a paint job or a prop or two. Those can add to the theme, but they are not the theme, itself.
Sorry, Mike, but I cannot explain it any better than that.
P.S. My lambo doors ARE merely "bolt ons". Feel free to check 'em out any time. No new holes drilled. No welds. No structural changes. Just bolt 'em on, and connect the wires going to the door. That's it! I know, because I did not need a "body man" to put them on. I did it myself, with a helping hand from a friend (it takes two - one to hold the door up while the other bolts it down). I can put the old hinges back on at any time.
/
A Different Take
I knew it was coming - an anonymous poster (I know who it is, though) asked me if I had bothered to ASK why REDSLED was in Special Interest. And I did not post his comment because apparently he has a short in his comprehension skills - he filled it with unfounded personal attacks and hate, and they do not get printed.
He does not seem to understand the difference between exposing a wrong, as opposed to a personal attack. So for his benefit, I will attempt to explain with an analogy: It is not a "personal attack" to say Bernie Madoff cheated a lot of people and was sent to prison for it. Naming him does not make it a personal attack. However, if a person were to say that because of Madoff's evil deed, Madoff is an evil SOB and deserves to have a heart attack (as one blogger did write), then THAT makes it a personal attack. It calls the MAN, not just the deed, evil. And it calls for harm. It also calls him an SOB, which is a personal attack - no need to bring lineage into the fray.
I will not attack a person on a personal level. But I am not opposed to exposing those who knowingly cheat the rest of us. I will not call a person unfounded names, or wish him harm. But I am more than willing to let people know that a wrong has occured, and who is responsible - just as it is made known that a Ponzi scheme was perpetrated by Bernie Madoff. After all, there is no way to correct a wrong unless we know what it is, and who is responsible. If not for that, Madoff would still be a free man, cheating people.
And apparently, the person who sent in the comment missed the entire point about class-jumping.
So I will try to make it simple for him: his "reason" doesn't matter. RedSled is not Special Interest. He does not belong there, any more than I belong in 2x4 Trucks, although technically I could enter in trucks - Chrysler sells the PT on the title as a truck. Originally designed by Plymouth as a panel truck, the PT stood for Plymouth Truck. Chrysler changed it to Panel Truck. When they added windows, they changed it again to Personal Transport. But the title still says it is a truck. Imagine the howls, though, if I tried registering in trucks!
They had a 50's class, and RedSled is a 50's vehicle. That is where he belonged. And if the organizers somehow missed that, and suggested he go into SI, he should have straightened them out. He could have moved - the Mini did, from his class to SI (he also did that at Gorham and at Parsonsfield he moved from his class to SI, saw the competition was tough, and returned to foreign, where he belonged). In any case, RedSled belonged in the 50's class with all the other 50's. Period.
So, one more time for those who do not learn anything easily, if a vehicle does not fit the definition of a class, it should not be in that class. And if there is a class that fits a vehicle better, that is the class it should be in. The RedSled is not unique. Nor is it designed for a unique purpose. It does not follow a specific or unusual theme. Therefore, it is not SI.
I do empathize in that Oxford did not include a Custom class, which is pretty much a standard class at shows. But lacking that class, RedSled is still a 50's vehicle.
If you still do not get it, perhaps you should choose a hobby that you understand better.
And for the record, Mr. "Anonymous", this blog is not a part of the HotKarz website. It is a separate blog, on a separate server (Google) that I created afterward for the specific purpose of providing additional info, insight and a public form so the HotKarz site could remain neutral, and only about Hot Cars. If you do not like what this blog says, then do not read it - enjoy the HotKarz site to your content, but no one forces you to come to this blog. This blog is not HotKarz. It is ABOUT HotKarz. If you want a blog that is bland, causes no controversy, and ignores what is really going on, then write your own, because this is not it.
By the way, I also have not published your LAST two comments of hate and discontent, because you are obviously a very lonely and troubled person, and I do not wish to exploit that. And again, that crap does not get published. If you would like to post something thoughtful, that adds to the conversation without all the vile bile, go ahead. Otherwise, please don't waste your time.
As for "coming over and saying 'HI' to you" at the shows, perhaps I would, if I believed you could drop the BS and hate and give me a REASON to converse with you. But you and I both know that would never happen because your attitude prevents it.
/
He does not seem to understand the difference between exposing a wrong, as opposed to a personal attack. So for his benefit, I will attempt to explain with an analogy: It is not a "personal attack" to say Bernie Madoff cheated a lot of people and was sent to prison for it. Naming him does not make it a personal attack. However, if a person were to say that because of Madoff's evil deed, Madoff is an evil SOB and deserves to have a heart attack (as one blogger did write), then THAT makes it a personal attack. It calls the MAN, not just the deed, evil. And it calls for harm. It also calls him an SOB, which is a personal attack - no need to bring lineage into the fray.
I will not attack a person on a personal level. But I am not opposed to exposing those who knowingly cheat the rest of us. I will not call a person unfounded names, or wish him harm. But I am more than willing to let people know that a wrong has occured, and who is responsible - just as it is made known that a Ponzi scheme was perpetrated by Bernie Madoff. After all, there is no way to correct a wrong unless we know what it is, and who is responsible. If not for that, Madoff would still be a free man, cheating people.
And apparently, the person who sent in the comment missed the entire point about class-jumping.
So I will try to make it simple for him: his "reason" doesn't matter. RedSled is not Special Interest. He does not belong there, any more than I belong in 2x4 Trucks, although technically I could enter in trucks - Chrysler sells the PT on the title as a truck. Originally designed by Plymouth as a panel truck, the PT stood for Plymouth Truck. Chrysler changed it to Panel Truck. When they added windows, they changed it again to Personal Transport. But the title still says it is a truck. Imagine the howls, though, if I tried registering in trucks!
They had a 50's class, and RedSled is a 50's vehicle. That is where he belonged. And if the organizers somehow missed that, and suggested he go into SI, he should have straightened them out. He could have moved - the Mini did, from his class to SI (he also did that at Gorham and at Parsonsfield he moved from his class to SI, saw the competition was tough, and returned to foreign, where he belonged). In any case, RedSled belonged in the 50's class with all the other 50's. Period.
So, one more time for those who do not learn anything easily, if a vehicle does not fit the definition of a class, it should not be in that class. And if there is a class that fits a vehicle better, that is the class it should be in. The RedSled is not unique. Nor is it designed for a unique purpose. It does not follow a specific or unusual theme. Therefore, it is not SI.
I do empathize in that Oxford did not include a Custom class, which is pretty much a standard class at shows. But lacking that class, RedSled is still a 50's vehicle.
If you still do not get it, perhaps you should choose a hobby that you understand better.
And for the record, Mr. "Anonymous", this blog is not a part of the HotKarz website. It is a separate blog, on a separate server (Google) that I created afterward for the specific purpose of providing additional info, insight and a public form so the HotKarz site could remain neutral, and only about Hot Cars. If you do not like what this blog says, then do not read it - enjoy the HotKarz site to your content, but no one forces you to come to this blog. This blog is not HotKarz. It is ABOUT HotKarz. If you want a blog that is bland, causes no controversy, and ignores what is really going on, then write your own, because this is not it.
By the way, I also have not published your LAST two comments of hate and discontent, because you are obviously a very lonely and troubled person, and I do not wish to exploit that. And again, that crap does not get published. If you would like to post something thoughtful, that adds to the conversation without all the vile bile, go ahead. Otherwise, please don't waste your time.
As for "coming over and saying 'HI' to you" at the shows, perhaps I would, if I believed you could drop the BS and hate and give me a REASON to converse with you. But you and I both know that would never happen because your attitude prevents it.
/
Touch-ups, Part II
A few days ago I mentioned the super job of touching up provided by a kit from Dr Colorchip. In the same post, I also mentioned a very bad experience with another company, Microfinish, at automotivetouchup.com. If you are considering a touch up paint or kit, you would be well advised to avoid Microfinish.
I'll start by telling you that I ordered their touch-up paint on July 26 because their website offered a Priority Mail option. Since I wanted to touch up the car for the Andover show on August 1st, that was cool - they would mix the paint on the 27th, send it out on the 28th and I would have it by the 31st. Perfect.
Or so I thought. Now most folks, upon seeing that you are paying more for Priority Mail, would assume you are in a hurry, and want it right away. That is the purpose of Priority Mail. But not according to Microfinish!
On July 30th I get an email from them stating that they will finally get around to shipping my order the next day - the 31st, which was the day I had needed, and expected, to RECEIVE it.
I asked why it had not already shipped and learned that it takes them 4 days to mix one ounce of paint! (PERSPECTIVE: Home Depot and Lowe's can mix a gallon in a few minutes)
I told them that was unacceptable, and to cancel my order and credit my account. At first, they did not wish to honor that request. But after providing them with legal incentives to the contrary, they relented. But they only gave a credit of 75%. The rest, they said, was a "re-stocking fee". Since the error was on their part, I told them to fork over the rest or they would wish they had - it would cost them much, much more to have to respond to complaints I would file with the Better Business Bureau, the FTC and their state attorney general on grounds of unfair business practices and misleading advertising.
Meanwhile, it was July 30th. The show was in two days. What to do?
I emailed Dr Colorchip, and a rep named Amy was quite helpful. Where it took Microfinish 4 days to mix an ounce of paint, Dr Colorchip mixed the ounce, put together the more complex kit, shipped it and had it in my hot little hands in under 24 hours!
A much better touch-up kit (not just a tube of paint, as with Microfinish), much better service, and I'm a happy camper. Not to mention the car looks great!
So there you have it, folks. Microfinish can mix you an ounce of paint in 4 days, then take another 3 days to get it to you after charging a premium for Priority. But Dr Colorchip can provide that same ounce of paint PLUS a blending solution sealer, 3 different applicators, nitrile glove and buffing cloth, and get it to you in 24 hours if you wish.
Hm-m-m. Which to choose....
I ordered another Dr Colorchip kit for our Pacifica...
/
I'll start by telling you that I ordered their touch-up paint on July 26 because their website offered a Priority Mail option. Since I wanted to touch up the car for the Andover show on August 1st, that was cool - they would mix the paint on the 27th, send it out on the 28th and I would have it by the 31st. Perfect.
Or so I thought. Now most folks, upon seeing that you are paying more for Priority Mail, would assume you are in a hurry, and want it right away. That is the purpose of Priority Mail. But not according to Microfinish!
On July 30th I get an email from them stating that they will finally get around to shipping my order the next day - the 31st, which was the day I had needed, and expected, to RECEIVE it.
I asked why it had not already shipped and learned that it takes them 4 days to mix one ounce of paint! (PERSPECTIVE: Home Depot and Lowe's can mix a gallon in a few minutes)
I told them that was unacceptable, and to cancel my order and credit my account. At first, they did not wish to honor that request. But after providing them with legal incentives to the contrary, they relented. But they only gave a credit of 75%. The rest, they said, was a "re-stocking fee". Since the error was on their part, I told them to fork over the rest or they would wish they had - it would cost them much, much more to have to respond to complaints I would file with the Better Business Bureau, the FTC and their state attorney general on grounds of unfair business practices and misleading advertising.
Meanwhile, it was July 30th. The show was in two days. What to do?
I emailed Dr Colorchip, and a rep named Amy was quite helpful. Where it took Microfinish 4 days to mix an ounce of paint, Dr Colorchip mixed the ounce, put together the more complex kit, shipped it and had it in my hot little hands in under 24 hours!
A much better touch-up kit (not just a tube of paint, as with Microfinish), much better service, and I'm a happy camper. Not to mention the car looks great!
So there you have it, folks. Microfinish can mix you an ounce of paint in 4 days, then take another 3 days to get it to you after charging a premium for Priority. But Dr Colorchip can provide that same ounce of paint PLUS a blending solution sealer, 3 different applicators, nitrile glove and buffing cloth, and get it to you in 24 hours if you wish.
Hm-m-m. Which to choose....
I ordered another Dr Colorchip kit for our Pacifica...
/
Monday, August 3, 2009
Grapevine
I have heard through the proverbial grapevine that folks could literally buy ballots at the Waterville show this last Sunday for $1.00 each. I cannot say that it is true or false, but would appreciate feedback and/or more info from anyone who attended that show.
It does, after all, strike a chord of curiosity, does it not?
/
It does, after all, strike a chord of curiosity, does it not?
/
New Events
On Friday, August 14th the Anderson Staples American Legion Post, on King Street in Oxford, Maine is hosting a Street Dance & Cruise Nite.
Starts at 6:00 pm and ends at 11:00 pm. Music provided by TJ's DJ Music Express
Food is available; drawings for door prizes and a 50/50
Event benefits the Western Maine Veteran's Home & American Legion Legacy Fund.
Rain date: August 21, 2009.
------------------------
The new Cruise at Sebago Brewing in Gorham (behind Hannaford's) begins tonight, and every Monday in August.
------------------------
The Kiwanis Show in Standish is this coming Saturday. Number of classes have been expanded. This is the only show we know of where the eats are free (donations, however, are appreciated).
------------------------
The Telstar Show in Bethel is back this year. A new group is running it. Comes on Saturday August 15 from 9:00am - 2:00pm.
Appears to be a judged show, with 21 classes plus Best of Show, Best Engine, Best Paint and Telstar Alumni Choice. For more info, call the Chamber of Commerce at 207-824-2282 or Telstar HS at 207-824-2136. Classes are listed here.
/
Starts at 6:00 pm and ends at 11:00 pm. Music provided by TJ's DJ Music Express
Food is available; drawings for door prizes and a 50/50
Event benefits the Western Maine Veteran's Home & American Legion Legacy Fund.
Rain date: August 21, 2009.
------------------------
The new Cruise at Sebago Brewing in Gorham (behind Hannaford's) begins tonight, and every Monday in August.
------------------------
The Kiwanis Show in Standish is this coming Saturday. Number of classes have been expanded. This is the only show we know of where the eats are free (donations, however, are appreciated).
------------------------
The Telstar Show in Bethel is back this year. A new group is running it. Comes on Saturday August 15 from 9:00am - 2:00pm.
Appears to be a judged show, with 21 classes plus Best of Show, Best Engine, Best Paint and Telstar Alumni Choice. For more info, call the Chamber of Commerce at 207-824-2282 or Telstar HS at 207-824-2136. Classes are listed here.
/
Sunday, August 2, 2009
PT Woody
Big Mike has posted a comment that he cannot see where our PT Woody is Special Interest, and points out about a "factory woody" option.
While you are partly correct, Mike, here is where you are wrong:
1) Ours is not a factory woody option with a cost of $800. The factory option is little more than contact paper. Ours is a custom-made woody kit by California Cruisers and cost over $2400 for the woody kit, alone, and is 3-dimensional. The mahoghany inserts are real mahoghany, laminated and glossed with plasti-kote.
2) Our woody does have a specific theme - Surf Woody, depicting the surf woody craze of the Beach Boys era. The theme is followed throughout the car, right down to the "California Cruisin'" brakelight, etched dolphins on the windows and the surfboard air freshener. That is what is meant by "Theme". Not to mention the rather obvious piece - a large wooden surfboard that sticks out like a skunk in a church. And while we do not show them often, we also utilize a hatch display of over 30 die-cast surf woodies, woody blanket, woody books and assorted other surfing and woody memorabilia.
One gentleman has an army jeep. Ordinarily, it is just a jeep. But he created a theme by decking it out with military paraphenalia - guns, scabbards, ammo cans - the works. He even wears an army uniform. So, the ordinary jeep is special interest, because his vehicle is designed to support a specific theme.
If a vehicle follows a specific and unusual theme, as stated in the definition, it is a Special Interest. The PT Woody does follow a specific and unusual theme, of which there is little doubt. How many other surf woodies have you seen in shows lately? And a couple years ago I was about to buy a black PT, and deck it out as a Chicago 1930's mobster car, complete with running boards, lots of chrome, air vents on the hood, and a machine gun, which I still have - it is a movie prop that was used in "The Untouchables". I was even going to wear the mobster pinstripe suit with baggie pants, just like Legs Diamond. That, too, would be a themed vehicle, and therefore special interest. Unfortunately, Robin decided she wanted a PT turned into a 1940's panel truck, split rear window etc. Robin won.
It is also fairly unique, in that no other PT around has all the custom options, including lambo doors, chromed bumpers, vertical chrome grill, smoothie wheels with wide whites, and 27 other items that differentiate it.
But we do not play on the uniqueness. It is SI primarily because it is a themed vehicle.
For those who need to get a better grasp on what constitutes Special Interest, and why, here are several actual examples from shows right here in southern Maine.
Thanx, Mike, for offering the opportunity for me to clear this up - and congrats on your long overdue win today. And we often do enter 90's - present, when available. The exception is when the organizers suggest we put it in Special Interest, as they did today at Oxford, and yesterday at Andover. We did not choose the class. And we win more often in 80's and 90's to Present than we do in Special Interest. As for registering in Custom, that is not an option, since every item on our car is applied - nothing about the vehicle, itself, has been substantially or structurally altered. Even the lambo doors are mere bolt-ons. So the car simply does not qualify as a Custom.
Meanwhile, I am working on the pix for both Andover and Oxford. The show galleries are up - just working on the winners, and Best Of...Since my cam has been acting up, some shots in the "Best Of" sections are stock photos taken from my inventory of pix of the same vehicles.
Bill
While you are partly correct, Mike, here is where you are wrong:
1) Ours is not a factory woody option with a cost of $800. The factory option is little more than contact paper. Ours is a custom-made woody kit by California Cruisers and cost over $2400 for the woody kit, alone, and is 3-dimensional. The mahoghany inserts are real mahoghany, laminated and glossed with plasti-kote.
2) Our woody does have a specific theme - Surf Woody, depicting the surf woody craze of the Beach Boys era. The theme is followed throughout the car, right down to the "California Cruisin'" brakelight, etched dolphins on the windows and the surfboard air freshener. That is what is meant by "Theme". Not to mention the rather obvious piece - a large wooden surfboard that sticks out like a skunk in a church. And while we do not show them often, we also utilize a hatch display of over 30 die-cast surf woodies, woody blanket, woody books and assorted other surfing and woody memorabilia.
One gentleman has an army jeep. Ordinarily, it is just a jeep. But he created a theme by decking it out with military paraphenalia - guns, scabbards, ammo cans - the works. He even wears an army uniform. So, the ordinary jeep is special interest, because his vehicle is designed to support a specific theme.
If a vehicle follows a specific and unusual theme, as stated in the definition, it is a Special Interest. The PT Woody does follow a specific and unusual theme, of which there is little doubt. How many other surf woodies have you seen in shows lately? And a couple years ago I was about to buy a black PT, and deck it out as a Chicago 1930's mobster car, complete with running boards, lots of chrome, air vents on the hood, and a machine gun, which I still have - it is a movie prop that was used in "The Untouchables". I was even going to wear the mobster pinstripe suit with baggie pants, just like Legs Diamond. That, too, would be a themed vehicle, and therefore special interest. Unfortunately, Robin decided she wanted a PT turned into a 1940's panel truck, split rear window etc. Robin won.
It is also fairly unique, in that no other PT around has all the custom options, including lambo doors, chromed bumpers, vertical chrome grill, smoothie wheels with wide whites, and 27 other items that differentiate it.
But we do not play on the uniqueness. It is SI primarily because it is a themed vehicle.
For those who need to get a better grasp on what constitutes Special Interest, and why, here are several actual examples from shows right here in southern Maine.
Thanx, Mike, for offering the opportunity for me to clear this up - and congrats on your long overdue win today. And we often do enter 90's - present, when available. The exception is when the organizers suggest we put it in Special Interest, as they did today at Oxford, and yesterday at Andover. We did not choose the class. And we win more often in 80's and 90's to Present than we do in Special Interest. As for registering in Custom, that is not an option, since every item on our car is applied - nothing about the vehicle, itself, has been substantially or structurally altered. Even the lambo doors are mere bolt-ons. So the car simply does not qualify as a Custom.
Meanwhile, I am working on the pix for both Andover and Oxford. The show galleries are up - just working on the winners, and Best Of...Since my cam has been acting up, some shots in the "Best Of" sections are stock photos taken from my inventory of pix of the same vehicles.
Bill
Divided
Today we attended the show in Oxford, put on by Uptown Cruisahs. But writing this post will not be easy, as I am a bit divided.
On the one hand, in a general sense (as seen through the eyes of a spectator) the show was quite good. It was the first show for Uptown Cruisahs, and from that view they did well. The food layout was exceptional - cafeteria style "walk along and choose", with tables under a tent to enhance your dining pleasure. The music was also very good, and the staff (the Cruisahs) were among the friendliest and most helpful I have seen this season - they made the rounds, asking the folks their thoughts, and when you left, you were greeted with a smile, a wave, and "Thank you for coming". I applaud them, as we all should.
In fact, if not for a few things wrong - two of which were very wrong - this show could have ranked among the best of the season. And, if they pay attention to what folks were telling them, and they correct these things for next year, they will likely be among the best in the future. But not this year.
One area of concern was the disparity in the classes - in several classes there were only 4 or 5 vehicles while in others there were as many as 25 or more. There was only one class for the multitude of Street Rods, and their Antique class spanned 50 years - all the way to 1949, creating a huge class for those vehicles. So, the first issue they should consider revamping for next year is a better class structure.
Another problem was one of space. They ran short of space, so two classes ended up way out back, behind a bunch of tractor-trailers, and out of view of the main show. In speaking with many spectators, most expressed surprise to learn there were more cars beyond the trailers - they had not even seen them.
And there was no class for Customs, which is a huge mistake. How many stock, original vehicles can compete fairly against customs? Not many. Customs must always be a class worth including.
But the kicker was that infernal class-jumping and the poaching of trophies. The following example is chosen because it was the most blatant case, and many, many people remarked on it. And the most shameful aspect of it was when, after being brought to the Cruisahs attention, it only resulted in a shrug of the shoulders, with nothing done about it. That was the wrong attitude.
A custom '62 Ford Galaxie registered into Special Interest. A beautiful car, certainly, but it is not even close to fitting the description of Special Interest and should never, ever be allowed in that class. Yet, he took the 2nd place trophy for Special Interest even though he was not even Special Interest. To put it in perspective, it would be like having a Camaro win in the Mustang division. In this instance, the owner may have simply not understood the class definition - perhaps an honest mistake. But not so with two others, both of whom do know the definition, but choose to ignore it:
Once again, a very dishonest person with a mini cooper checked out his class (import compacts) and once again, as he did at the Gorham show, decided to retreat into Special Interest. A stock mini cooper has ZERO business ever being in Special Interest. But this fellow does it every time there is any competition in his own class. And that is as reprehensible as it gets. He is a trophy poacher of the worst kind.
And then there was the '51 Ford Led Sled that belonged in the '50's, but chose, instead, to move into Special Interest to poach an easy 1st place. Here is a newsflash for led sleds - there are millions of them, and none of them are, or ever have been, Special Interest. They are customs, for the year of their manufacture. I have yet to see a led sled that fits the description of Special Interest. Yet, this particular individual will often register in Special Interest whenever the competition in his own class is too tough.
Three trophy poachers (two intentional, and one perhaps an honest mistake). And two of them won.
Anyone who votes for a vehicle that does not belong in the class is cheating just as much as the class-jumper.
Major League Ball Players get disqualified and tossed out of the league for cheating with steroid use. Kids get kicked out of college for cheating on exams. CHEATING IS WRONG, no matter who does it, or why. But for some reason that eludes me, a lot of car folks will simply accept it as the "norm", and not do anything to clean up their own sport. And until we all do the work to clean it up, those trophies you bring home will be meaningless, because there is no way to tell if you actually earned it, or if you benefitted from the cheating of someone else (if that '62 Galaxie had been in the 60's class, would the same people have won in that class? Maybe - maybe not. There is a good chance HE would have won).
In every other sport in America, cheaters are thrown out. But not in car shows. Why? Because we, the people, sit back and let the cheaters have their way. And that makes we, the people, just as guilty as the cheats, themselves.
The Good Book says we must stand up for what is right, even if we are persecuted for it. And we need to begin doing that, folks. We need to stand up against class-jumping and block voting, or the infection will one day destroy our sport.
Don't believe it? In the last few weeks I have heard no fewer than two dozen folks say, "I won't be going back to THAT show again - the cheating was terrible." I heard it about Kora, Gorham, Oxford and Parsems, to mention but a few. And if it keeps up, only the cheaters will be left to pat themselves on the back for being such a bunch of moral losers.
And it is not just because a few people cheat. It is because we have not done anything to stop it, so it is getting worse each year. By not trying to stop it, you are saying, "OK, go ahead and cheat. I don't care." And that gives more folks "permission" to cheat. And most people will do anything they have permission to do.
Folks, some of you will be pissed at me for saying all this - so be it. I believe in the teachings of the Good Book, so I feel obligated to at least make a stab at following them, and I really don't care if the cheaters dislike me or not. But we have got to start taking control of this. We, the folks, must stand and be counted. Folks who knowingly cheat should be disqualified and sent packing, their registrations pulled. Folks who unknowingly enter the wrong class should be told to go to their own class - yes, by you, the folks, if the organizers are too weak to do it. Cheats should NOT be accepted.
And if the person is your friend, and you do not want to shame him, then perhaps you need better friends - we are all judged by the company we keep. If he is your friend, then BE a friend and straighten him out! Speak up. Stand for what is right.
Yes, Red Sled is a beautiful car, as is the '62 Galaxie. But neither one is, or ever will be, Special Interest, and neither should ever be allowed in that class. And no ordinary, stock vehicle like a mini cooper should ever be allowed, either. If we allow a mini cooper, led sled or '62 Galaxie into Special Interest, then we should also allow a Camaro in with Mustangs, and '55 Chevys in with 4x4 Trucks. Because there is NO difference. Out of class is out of class. Period.
And although it happens mostly in Special Interest, do not think you are immune. At Andover, a '65 Buick Riviera registered with the 40's, only because there was only one other car in the 40's, so he was obviously poaching an undeserved trophy. If it can happen in 40's, with a '65 Riviera, it can - and eventually will - happen to you.
ORGANIZERS: Start enforcing classes, or risk losing the folks.
PARTICIPANTS: Begin policing yourselves, or risk losing your sport to cheaters, not to mention risking your self-respect.
OK, so it is no secret where I stand on these issues. And I know the cheaters will be pissed because I am outing them, and they will cry like a bunch of scalded dogs. But I have given them two years to clean up their acts, and they are still cheating, so the gloves are off. From here on in, if you get caught cheating, don't be surprised if I begin naming names...
If you are a cheat, you have nothing to say that I will find value in EXCEPT an apology and a promise to the folks to do better in the future, so don't waste your time posting - no one wants to hear your BS. Nor am I interested in your lame excuses, like "They didn't have a Customs class". So what? They had a '50's class. And if a show has NO legitimate class for you - DON'T GO! Either stop cheating, or buzz off.
Now, for those of you who may not know the national definition of Special Interest, here it is once again:
"a vehicle uniquely distinguishable from the usual, and/or designed for a particular purpose, such as a race car, military vehicle or bus, or built to a specific and/or unusual theme, either of which would generate interest because of its uniqueness or specialty function."
There is no "special, unique purpose" to a led sled, '62 Galaxie or mini cooper. Nor do they have a specific or unusual theme. There is no uniqueness with specialty function.
Can we make shows better and fair to all? Yes, but only if we stand together and make it so. At Kora, Dan stood up like a man, asked for fairness, was rebuffed, and subsequently left in a show of protest. Unfortunately, ONE person standing up does not get the show organizers' attention. Imagine if 50 or 100 people were to leave together, in the middle of the show, protesting the unfairness. THAT would get the attention of Kora, would it not?
Yes, we can fix it. But only if the honest folks take a stand against the dishonest ones, and those who just are not aware. Put an end to block voting and class-jumping. Stop judged shows from using unfair methods of judging, or ignoring vehicles.
No one can do it EXCEPT you. I don't mind helping. I obviously do not mind speaking up. But like Dan, I am only one person. Let's do this. Together.
/
On the one hand, in a general sense (as seen through the eyes of a spectator) the show was quite good. It was the first show for Uptown Cruisahs, and from that view they did well. The food layout was exceptional - cafeteria style "walk along and choose", with tables under a tent to enhance your dining pleasure. The music was also very good, and the staff (the Cruisahs) were among the friendliest and most helpful I have seen this season - they made the rounds, asking the folks their thoughts, and when you left, you were greeted with a smile, a wave, and "Thank you for coming". I applaud them, as we all should.
In fact, if not for a few things wrong - two of which were very wrong - this show could have ranked among the best of the season. And, if they pay attention to what folks were telling them, and they correct these things for next year, they will likely be among the best in the future. But not this year.
One area of concern was the disparity in the classes - in several classes there were only 4 or 5 vehicles while in others there were as many as 25 or more. There was only one class for the multitude of Street Rods, and their Antique class spanned 50 years - all the way to 1949, creating a huge class for those vehicles. So, the first issue they should consider revamping for next year is a better class structure.
Another problem was one of space. They ran short of space, so two classes ended up way out back, behind a bunch of tractor-trailers, and out of view of the main show. In speaking with many spectators, most expressed surprise to learn there were more cars beyond the trailers - they had not even seen them.
And there was no class for Customs, which is a huge mistake. How many stock, original vehicles can compete fairly against customs? Not many. Customs must always be a class worth including.
But the kicker was that infernal class-jumping and the poaching of trophies. The following example is chosen because it was the most blatant case, and many, many people remarked on it. And the most shameful aspect of it was when, after being brought to the Cruisahs attention, it only resulted in a shrug of the shoulders, with nothing done about it. That was the wrong attitude.
A custom '62 Ford Galaxie registered into Special Interest. A beautiful car, certainly, but it is not even close to fitting the description of Special Interest and should never, ever be allowed in that class. Yet, he took the 2nd place trophy for Special Interest even though he was not even Special Interest. To put it in perspective, it would be like having a Camaro win in the Mustang division. In this instance, the owner may have simply not understood the class definition - perhaps an honest mistake. But not so with two others, both of whom do know the definition, but choose to ignore it:
Once again, a very dishonest person with a mini cooper checked out his class (import compacts) and once again, as he did at the Gorham show, decided to retreat into Special Interest. A stock mini cooper has ZERO business ever being in Special Interest. But this fellow does it every time there is any competition in his own class. And that is as reprehensible as it gets. He is a trophy poacher of the worst kind.
And then there was the '51 Ford Led Sled that belonged in the '50's, but chose, instead, to move into Special Interest to poach an easy 1st place. Here is a newsflash for led sleds - there are millions of them, and none of them are, or ever have been, Special Interest. They are customs, for the year of their manufacture. I have yet to see a led sled that fits the description of Special Interest. Yet, this particular individual will often register in Special Interest whenever the competition in his own class is too tough.
Three trophy poachers (two intentional, and one perhaps an honest mistake). And two of them won.
Anyone who votes for a vehicle that does not belong in the class is cheating just as much as the class-jumper.
Major League Ball Players get disqualified and tossed out of the league for cheating with steroid use. Kids get kicked out of college for cheating on exams. CHEATING IS WRONG, no matter who does it, or why. But for some reason that eludes me, a lot of car folks will simply accept it as the "norm", and not do anything to clean up their own sport. And until we all do the work to clean it up, those trophies you bring home will be meaningless, because there is no way to tell if you actually earned it, or if you benefitted from the cheating of someone else (if that '62 Galaxie had been in the 60's class, would the same people have won in that class? Maybe - maybe not. There is a good chance HE would have won).
In every other sport in America, cheaters are thrown out. But not in car shows. Why? Because we, the people, sit back and let the cheaters have their way. And that makes we, the people, just as guilty as the cheats, themselves.
The Good Book says we must stand up for what is right, even if we are persecuted for it. And we need to begin doing that, folks. We need to stand up against class-jumping and block voting, or the infection will one day destroy our sport.
Don't believe it? In the last few weeks I have heard no fewer than two dozen folks say, "I won't be going back to THAT show again - the cheating was terrible." I heard it about Kora, Gorham, Oxford and Parsems, to mention but a few. And if it keeps up, only the cheaters will be left to pat themselves on the back for being such a bunch of moral losers.
And it is not just because a few people cheat. It is because we have not done anything to stop it, so it is getting worse each year. By not trying to stop it, you are saying, "OK, go ahead and cheat. I don't care." And that gives more folks "permission" to cheat. And most people will do anything they have permission to do.
Folks, some of you will be pissed at me for saying all this - so be it. I believe in the teachings of the Good Book, so I feel obligated to at least make a stab at following them, and I really don't care if the cheaters dislike me or not. But we have got to start taking control of this. We, the folks, must stand and be counted. Folks who knowingly cheat should be disqualified and sent packing, their registrations pulled. Folks who unknowingly enter the wrong class should be told to go to their own class - yes, by you, the folks, if the organizers are too weak to do it. Cheats should NOT be accepted.
And if the person is your friend, and you do not want to shame him, then perhaps you need better friends - we are all judged by the company we keep. If he is your friend, then BE a friend and straighten him out! Speak up. Stand for what is right.
Yes, Red Sled is a beautiful car, as is the '62 Galaxie. But neither one is, or ever will be, Special Interest, and neither should ever be allowed in that class. And no ordinary, stock vehicle like a mini cooper should ever be allowed, either. If we allow a mini cooper, led sled or '62 Galaxie into Special Interest, then we should also allow a Camaro in with Mustangs, and '55 Chevys in with 4x4 Trucks. Because there is NO difference. Out of class is out of class. Period.
And although it happens mostly in Special Interest, do not think you are immune. At Andover, a '65 Buick Riviera registered with the 40's, only because there was only one other car in the 40's, so he was obviously poaching an undeserved trophy. If it can happen in 40's, with a '65 Riviera, it can - and eventually will - happen to you.
ORGANIZERS: Start enforcing classes, or risk losing the folks.
PARTICIPANTS: Begin policing yourselves, or risk losing your sport to cheaters, not to mention risking your self-respect.
OK, so it is no secret where I stand on these issues. And I know the cheaters will be pissed because I am outing them, and they will cry like a bunch of scalded dogs. But I have given them two years to clean up their acts, and they are still cheating, so the gloves are off. From here on in, if you get caught cheating, don't be surprised if I begin naming names...
If you are a cheat, you have nothing to say that I will find value in EXCEPT an apology and a promise to the folks to do better in the future, so don't waste your time posting - no one wants to hear your BS. Nor am I interested in your lame excuses, like "They didn't have a Customs class". So what? They had a '50's class. And if a show has NO legitimate class for you - DON'T GO! Either stop cheating, or buzz off.
Now, for those of you who may not know the national definition of Special Interest, here it is once again:
"a vehicle uniquely distinguishable from the usual, and/or designed for a particular purpose, such as a race car, military vehicle or bus, or built to a specific and/or unusual theme, either of which would generate interest because of its uniqueness or specialty function."
There is no "special, unique purpose" to a led sled, '62 Galaxie or mini cooper. Nor do they have a specific or unusual theme. There is no uniqueness with specialty function.
Can we make shows better and fair to all? Yes, but only if we stand together and make it so. At Kora, Dan stood up like a man, asked for fairness, was rebuffed, and subsequently left in a show of protest. Unfortunately, ONE person standing up does not get the show organizers' attention. Imagine if 50 or 100 people were to leave together, in the middle of the show, protesting the unfairness. THAT would get the attention of Kora, would it not?
Yes, we can fix it. But only if the honest folks take a stand against the dishonest ones, and those who just are not aware. Put an end to block voting and class-jumping. Stop judged shows from using unfair methods of judging, or ignoring vehicles.
No one can do it EXCEPT you. I don't mind helping. I obviously do not mind speaking up. But like Dan, I am only one person. Let's do this. Together.
/
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)