2024 Motorsports Newsletter 9/11/24

1) EDITOR’S CORNER: Museums, Libraries, Hall of Fame Program problems continued. Boredom. Yes, boredom with a Hall of Fame, yearly awards banquet, Honorary Programs weigh on the directors, staff and public. Who attends such programs. Usually, they are the honorees and their friends, but once honored how many actually return the following years, until finally they are gone? Keeping such programs going is difficult and over time it becomes harder to summon up the energy and enthusiasm when the program was new. Of course, new staff will takeover, infusing new enthusiasm, and new members of the Hall of Fames will be chosen. But it’s always a grind to get the program going and staying fresh.

AND: All links in the newsletter need to be copied and pasted into your browser in order to work.

AND: I received this from a reader, “My permission? To put an old man’s thoughts and stories in your newsletter? I’m truly flattered you would ask. Of course you have my permission. But do you really think an old guy’s stories and fantasies are of interest to your readers?” The answer is YES, that’s exactly what this newsletter is all about. I started recording the memories of people I’ve interviewed beginning in 2000 and I’ll keep doing this as long as I can. The story of motorsports is told by the people who were there. Keep writing your stories and the stories of others.

2) The Ultimate Guide on NHRA Drag Racing Series Betting in the US. Some of the best sportsbooks (online casinos and regular sportsbooks) that currently offer drag racing events betting are: DraftKings, Betway, Bet365, Ceasars. https://nxtbets.com/the ultimate guide on nhra drag racing series betting in the us/. John Towle

3) PASSINGS: J.L. Payne, a well known and respected Top Fuel driver from the 1960’s, has passed away. Payne, who raced in both Top Fuel and Fuel Altered, is probably best remembered as the driver of Vance Hunt’s record setting fuel dragster from 1962 64, but also drove for several other team owners.

AND: Pro Gas pioneer and longtime Sportsman racer Donald Barton passed away January 2, 2024. Barton was a pioneer in the Pro Gas class in the late 1970’s and early 1980’s that was would eventually become Super Gas, wheeling his Clownin’ Around ‘55 Chevy from 1971 through the late 1990’s. Barton later would drive the Undercover dragster beginning in 2000 season and more recently drive the family’s Miller Race Cars dragster before returning to the ‘55 duties during the 2021 season. From NHRA updates.

AND: Fellow RacingHistoryers, I’ve had the pleasure of talking with and enjoying Paul Goldsmith’s company at Bench Racers banquets in the past. A pure gentleman and easy to access. See the link: https://racer.com/2024/ 09/06/paul goldsmith 1925 2024/?fbclid=IwY2xjawFIjyRleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHVuni2PhQIaws9X61NsZayP9R ozHYzVrNrN94JCgmRGZ2nM09tF2yTcgzA_aem_mzgWcO5K2EK42n5B_METdw. Gene Ingram, New Castle, Ind.

AND: Paul Goldsmith passes: Underappreciated, and Paul excelled at the highest levels of three motorsports in their heydays. Smokey Yunick held him in the highest regard of all his drivers, and he dealt with most of the best in their prime. Robin Miller is a great judge of drivers. From Bob Storck

GENE and BOB: So sorry to hear of Paul’s passing. I reported on him in the history of my father, the Wally & Barbara Parks Story, We Did It Our Way. With your permission I will include the following in my free Motorsports Newsletter and send you emailed newsletters. If you don’t want them, please let me know. Tell me more about your RacingHistory group.

AND: By RACER Magazine Staff. Video by Robin Miller. Indianapolis 500 veteran Paul Goldsmith, a winning competitor on two and four wheels, died Sept 6, 2024, in Munster, Indiana. He was 98, the oldest Indianapolis 500 starter at the time of his passing. West Virginia native Goldsmith made six consecutive Indy 500 starts between 1958 63. His best finish came in 1960, a third place result in the #99 Demler Epperly/Offy car overshadowed by the sensational duel for victory between Jim Rathmann and Rodger Ward.

4) Paul Chamberlain’s story continued. Now that I’m wound up, memories are coming back and there are lots more to tell but I’ve run off at the keyboard long enough. Hopefully I haven’t bored you. As for me now, I’m retired. I paint in oils. I have a series of racing paintings titled “Vintage Thunder” on my website; 2604prc.

5) George Poteet, by David Tremayne restspirit. Part 7. The rear end of Speed Demon went one way, then the other, then she tripped over, rolled, and flew. The distance from that moment until the first indicated landing was 534 feet. “But at the speed he was going, that only took about a second,” Ron Main chillingly pointed out. There were several other gouges and dings in the salt, indicating up to five hits before Speed Demon slewed to a halt on her left side, and though the debris had long been cleared up by the time we made our personal investigations, you could still pick up little slivers of orange painted fibreglass. I still have some.

6) Alex Xydias—Hot Rod Hero, by Mark Vaughn. With the advent of live television, that phase of his working life faded away and he joined the staff at Petersen Publications in 1963 as editor of Car Craft. Later he became publisher of Hot Rod Industry News and helped found the SEMA Show. In 1975 he went to work for Mickey Thompson to launch the SCORE Off Road Equipment trade show, where he worked until Thompson’s untimely death in 1988. Soon after that, Beverly Hills car enthusiast Bruce Meyer introduced Xydias to hot rod entrepreneur Pete Chapouris, who was interested in rebranding his own shop as the SO CAL Speed Shop. The two hit it off famously, and SO CAL was reborn (now in all caps). The year 2012 marked the founding of the Alex Xydias’ Center for Automotive Arts located just a crankshaft’s throw away from the NHRA Pomona drag strip. The center was founded with donations, including a large grant from the Petersen Foundation. (to be continued)

7) DeLorean: The Whole Story, by author Matt Stone at Autobooks/Aerobooks, Saturday, October 5, 2024, from 11am to 3pm. For info go to Manager. 2900 W. Magnolia Blvd, Burbank, CA.

8) I did some catalog work for Ak Miller back in the 1970’s when Burke LeSage managed his operation. “Big Bill” Edwards was in the shop. Ak was heavily involved in developing turbocharger kits and alternative fuels decades before it became “fashionable.” He was involved with Impco carburetors. I recall seeing an El Camino in Ak’s shop that had a huge propane tank in the back and could ostensibly go from L.A. to New Orleans on a single tank. I also saw a turbocharged Pantera there. Ak was quite the innovator! Bill Holland

BILL: I understand “Big Bill” Edwards was as outrageous and creative as AK Miller. Perhaps our readers can send us some “Big Bill” stories?

9) Ed Iskenderian: The Legendary Camfather Celebrates 103 Years July 2024, by Donia Moore (continued).

Celebrating a Legend: As Ed Iskenderian marks his 103rd year, the automotive community celebrates not just a birthday, but a life dedicated to innovation, passion, and excellence. The Camfather’s journey is a remarkable story of a man who followed his dreams and changed the world of high performance engineering forever. In honoring Isky, we celebrate the spirit of creativity and determination that defines the hot rod culture. His story serves as a reminder that with passion and perseverance, anyone can achieve greatness. Ed Iskenderian is not just a legend; he is a beacon of inspiration for all who love cars and the pursuit of speed.

10) Books on Mark Greene’s Cars Year website mentioned by those appearing on Mark’s Podcast. Dale LaFollette – Race of the Century by Julie M. Fenster, Touring Superleggera by Carolo Felice Bianchi.

Anderloni and Angelo Tito Anselmi and Paul Sheldon’s books below:

A Record of Grand Prix and Voiturette Racing Volume 1 – Paul Sheldon.

A Record of Grand Prix and Voiturette Racing Volume 6 – Paul Sheldon.

A Record of Grand Prix and Voiturette Racing Volume 5 – Paul Sheldon. Roy Spencer – Weekend Heroes – ISBN 9789080119734 (currently out of print). Chuck Bennnett – The Fantastic Inventions of Nikola Tesla by Nikola Tesla. Kevin Davis – The Four Hour Work Week by Timothy Ferriss. Scot Keller – The Arsenal of Democracy by A.J. Baime, and Go Like Hell by A.J. Baime.

11) A few pics that turned up on the Model A forum. From Dema Elgin and Pat.

EDITOR: If the photo doesn’t go through then here’s a description: Ed Winfield is dressed in a brownish coat, white shirt, tie and brown beret. He’s driving a sprint car with the #1 on the cowl. He has a slight smile. In the background are the hills above Lincoln Ascot, in East Los Angeles, California.

12) Burt Levy wrote: “As you have no doubt noticed, I started a bit of a trend with my second novel, Montezuma’s Ferrari, by funding the project the same way much of my racing has been funded: with sponsorships and advertsing. Worked like a champ, too. In fact, that novel idea won Montezuma’s Ferrari the 2000 Benjamin Franklin Book of the Year award for innovation in publishing.” From: thinkfast.

EDITOR: Ron Main and David Fetherston did the same process with Bonneville Speed Trials 1949 1958, and Bonneville Speed Trials 1959 1968.

13) This Week on Cars Yeah Mark Greene interviews Rebecca Schnell, Jeff Nowak, Martina Qwan (or Kwan), and Perry McCarthy. Mark is at Cars Yeah info.

14) Lowrider Parade Sept 15, 2024, 10AM 2PM. A conversation with CEO of Designworks USA, Julia De Bono (BMW). The second part of our Best in Low exhibit tour. On Display, 1959 Chevrolet Impala “Glock 9,” 1979 Lincoln Continental “Las Vegas,” 1942 Chevrolet Special Deluxe “Captain 42.” The exhibition includes iconic lowrider vehicles and those newer to the scene, all featuring outstanding customization in various aspects of the lowrider build, from paint and metal finishing to interiors and hydraulics. Motortrend’s Super Street After Dark, Sept 7, 2024, 7 11PM. Petersen Automotive Museum info

15) The Vintage Speedcar Association (NSW) Newsletter 245th Edition

Issue #6, June & July 2024. 16 pages. Article and photos by Kevin Gilkison. Rhonda and I felt honoured to be invited to attend a gathering at Brighton Lakes Recreation and Golf Club on Saturday 22nd June for an afternoon of stories and laughs while celebrating the 80th birthday for our newsletter editor and technical guru, Keith Nicholls. Keith’s daughter, Kelly, did a fantastic job of organising a memorable event. The food, function room, decorations, cake(s), complimentary chocolates and biscuits, and photo memories of Keith’s life were all amazing. And the speeches were entertaining, and laughs were aplenty. And the Survival Kit provided to Keith was hilarious, and fitting. It WILL be used! VSA of NSW personalities in attendance were Dennis Newlyn (who made the effort to attend prior to heading to the airport and flying to Lismore Speedway’s presentation night), John Stanley, Kevin Gormly, Rhonda and myself. Congratulations on a massive milestone Keith, and thanks to Kelly for putting so much work into ensuring we enjoyed the party. John/Maria Green at ajkake.

16) There were so many requests from family and friends to read the complete pictorial article, I linked it here below. Inspirational Country Music Association’s 2024 Musician of the Year, Dennis Agajanian (Chris Agajanian’s cousin). The complete article with pictures: https://decisionmagazine.com/tough as nails with a tender heart/. Dennis at the Franklin Graham Festival in Barcelona, Spain. https://billygraham.org/video/dennis agajanian plays malaguena/. From Chris Agajanian

17) Wally’s stories: courtesy of DRIVE Magazine, by Wally Parks (serialized).

I went to Toronto with new NHRA sales rep Brian Tracy, where we toured the Thrush plant and with sketch in hand, made our proposal to the Thrush people for their sponsorship of an experimental NHRA track dryer. Its muffler shape was probably what sold the idea, and Thrush was the official sponsor of what would be the very first track dryer – if it worked. A next step was to get a builder for this experimental venture, so I contacted one of the west coast’s top hot rod builders, Romeo Palamides who had moved from San Francisco to Chicago and was already at work on creating some experimental jet powered racecars.

18) This link is the Trailblazer Newsletter for September. It goes out to over a thousand members. Although there are many interesting racing related stories in it, I’d like to draw your attention to page 20 for a story they recently published on Cousin Dennis Agajanian. https://mcusercontent.com/43d481a68f347d22c15175bfa/files/d2bedf 75 afff 88e0 3524 a2a1b5fc b395/trailblazersaugust24.01.pdf. From Chris Agajanian.

19) “I raced bikes from then until 1976,” Mary McGee told me. “Then I took up historic bike racing in 2000. My last race was in 2012.” She was only 76 at the time. Mary loved motorcycle racing, and it fitted well with her battles for equality for women long before that became a modern day aim. She knew only too well that women often faced greater obstacles than men, while noting that they “held up half the sky!” And her maxim was simple: “Just get out there and ride.” From: David Tremayne restspirit.

20) BOOK REVIEW: The Last Open Road, written by Burt “BS” Levy. In chapter 7, “Aunt Rosamarina’s Race Shop,” I tried to scan through quickly, but the wordage was so tantalizing that I had to reread it several times, simply for the enjoyment of the language that Levy uses. It is a sort of world that Sam Spade or Mike Hammer, two fisted literary characters, would have inhabited. The scene is set in the early 1950’s, the Golden Age of sportscar racing. As a guest member of the Fabulous 50’s Un club, I have come to appreciate this era like no other. Our young hero is lucky to have a garage to work in, albeit his aunt’s is hardly suitable for repairing a banged up sportscar. It is reminiscent of the “shade tree” mechanics who worked wonders with next to nothing at their disposal. The art of BS Levy is his ability to tell a story that brings us back to our past. It is a story of the struggling young men and women of a bygone age finding their way into their chosen fields, on their own talents, and little else. To be serialized, part 6. Gone Racin’ can be reached at RnParks1. Author BS “Burt” Levy is at thinkfast.

21) BOOK REVIEW: 12 Hours of Sebring 1970, by Harry Hurst. Reviewed by Thomas L. Bryant, Editor in Chief, Road & Track magazine, Published: November 6, 2012. Part 2 (to be serialized)

One such person is Harry Hurst, who recently sent us a book titled 12 Hours of Sebring 1970. Hurst was the track photographer at Sebring in 1970 (at the tender age of 19) and was witness to what many people think was the greatest Sebring 12 Hour ever. You have to understand that back in the 1950s, 1960s and into the 1970s, the 12 Hours of Sebring race was a really big deal on the international racing calendar. In the book’s foreword, Mario Andretti writes, “All the top Formula 1 and sports car drivers of several eras have driven there: Fangio, Gendebien, Moss, Stewart, Phil Hill — the list is endless. That’s what makes the tradition of Sebring so rich.” Harry Hurst is at harry.

22) BLAST FROM THE PAST…… From the Wally & Barbara Parks story, We Did It Our Way. 1 JANUARY 1939. First time Dad signs his own name to the News. The important thing about the January 1939 (volume 1, #3) issue of the SCTA Racing News is that Dad’s name is now stated on the letterhead as “Editor.” It is the first time that he has publicly announced himself and shows that he is asserting his own authority. Harry Cameron was no longer needed as the “Editor” and Parks’ name appears on the masthead as editor.

23) As the curtain comes down on the 50th RMMR today, look for another batch of content from Pruett and the CoForce crew later this weekend. Intended to tell the stories around some of HSR’s top competitors and their unique cars, the HSR content from Monterey can be found on the HSR Facebook and YouTube pages as well as the sanctioning body’s Twitter “X” account. Reigning HSR Driver of The Year Runs a Pair of Porsches this Weekend at RMMR About HSR: An International Motor Sports Association (IMSA) property, Historic Sportscar Racing (HSR) was formed in the mid 1970s with an event at Road Atlanta. SaalGoodPR.

24) WHO WE ARE © 2024 GrandPrix+. BAHRAIN RACE by David Tremayne. SO, WHAT’S CHANGED? Plus ca change, plus c’est la meme chose… Everyone else built RB19Bs, but Adrian Newey’s RB20 redefined everything yet again. And if you thought that Max Verstappen really opened his to full tune during a 57 lap annihilation, you probably weren’t paying full attention.

25) Karun Chandhok, Professional Racing Driver and Formula 1 Commentator and Analyst, and Ben Willshire, Founder and Managing Director of Driven International, joined us for the 4th Annual Race Industry Week. Hosted by Mark Hugues, Founder and Managing Director of Mrk1. From: Epartrade.

Engine Builder: Ilmor Engineering Andrew Richards, Program Manager at Ilmor Engineering, joined us for the 4th Annual Race Industry Week. Hosted by Jeff Hammond from SiriusXM, Channel 90. team.

26) I read the blurb about OCIR by Nick Paciulli. I remember him well along with Paul Culley who also did the announcing. And of course, I would fill in often for the door slammers and bracket racing. Please pass on my comments to Nick as well as my email address to him. Big John Morehead

BIG JOHN: I’ll pass your message to Nick and send me more memories of OCIR and other drag strips.

AND: I certainly remember Big John, and his wife (Kathy) who was one of the telewriter girls in those days at OCIR. Paul Culley? Paul was OCIR’s first, and possibly, it’s most colorful PA Announcer. It was Paul who got me started at OCIR. He actually tutored me to become his protege. When Paul retired from PA announcing duties at OCIR and moved on the Las Vegas to become a blackjack dealer (of all things lol), Mike Jones gave me the job of OCIR’s PA Announcer. If not one of the best moments of my life’s journey certainly one of the best moments of my drag racing journey. Another kind of fun memory was the day Mike told me the job was mine and he also asked me what I thought my salary should be. I remember almost laughing at that as Mike Jones was going to pay me? To have possibly the best job in drag racing of that era? To this day Mike never knew that I would have been the OCIR PA Announcer without any pay! Nick Paciulli

NICK AND JOHN: Send more memories of the past and write them down for your archives, family and friends. Your memories ARE the history of drag racing. THAT will be your gratitude to Mike Jones and OCIR.

27) My assistant, Jerry Rangel, will be there to bring others to the Kids. Watch the video to see what was done and how well they honored the First responders with Breakfast and songs. First class all the way and I can’t wait to be there. See: Remembrance Assembly at Parkridge Elementary School on YouTube at hiddenpioneers.

EDITOR: Congratulations to Jerry Rangel for being awarded the Presidential Achievement Award for his volunteerism to America’s youth.

28) The Ultimate Guide on NHRA Drag Racing Series Betting in the US. As you can see, there are several sports books that you can choose from. In addition to traditional Sportsbook operators, NHRA has a Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) option to legally wager cash on the series. Available exclusively on Underdog, DFS offers a new way for fans to engage with the sport, allowing them to make real money picks in an engaging Pick’Em format. This expanding category within legal sports wagering enables NHRA enthusiasts in 30 states including California, Florida, Utah and Texas, where traditional sports betting is currently prohibited, to participate in the action. https://nxtbets.com/the ultimate guide on nhra drag racing series betting in the us/. John Towle

EDITOR: Of many Pick’Ems I’ve made, the best pick was my good wife, Epi, while the other choices in my life have not always worked out so well.

29) BOOK REVIEW: One Last Turn, (road racing) by Martin Rudow and David Gaddis (cont’d).

The authors created chapters around 21 individuals and they are noted here (as listed in the book): Roger Bailey (supporting a veritable “Who’s Who” of motorsports; Peter Bryant (builder of some extraordinary Can Am cars); Jack Deren (multi talented designer and builder); Alec Greaves (a McLaren Man all the way); Joel Griffin (a versatile and adventurous mechanic); Trevor Harris (designer of cars both unusual and winning); Karl Kainhofer (Penske’s master technician); Frank Lance (when you start out with Jim Hall, where do you go next?). Harvey Lasiter (work on them and race them); Bob McKee (designer, builder, and mechanic extraordinaire).

30) WE GET LETTERS DEPT: I was not aware you were ailing. I do hope that you feel better real soon. I knew your brother David, not real well, but I did know him. He and I were both Civil Engineers and car enthusiasts. His sudden death took me completely by surprise. So, you take good care of yourself. Miler Mike Stewart

MIKE: Thank you. Minor outpatient surgery for a major skin cancer. Doing much better. Send more news on Land Speed Time Trials. David was the racer in the family, earning 3 “HATS.” One for Bonneville, another for El Mirage Salt Flats and the third for the Muroc Dry Lakes reunion. All over 200 mph and setting records in all three classes. He was fighting cancer and winning, as he always did, but did not have check ups for heart conditions since he always felt great. He had a massive heart attack and died at the age of 63, eight years younger than me. I always tell EVERYONE (yes, I’m a nagger) to get general physical exams regularly and an abdomen and upper torso x ray every so often. I miss the old grouch.

31) Royce Rumsey just published Keepers of the Flame. As a C level executive with NASA from the pioneering Mercury program through the stellar Space Shuttle flights, Don Nichols both created and preserves significant transportation history. His landmark achievements resulted in Congress awarding him with the Exceptional Service Medal. Bobby Green is committed to the careful study, archiving, preservation and presentation of treasures— automotive, artifact and architectural. For the photos go to: https://roycer924.exposure.co/keepers of the flame.

32) I received your latest this morning (it’s Thursday here) and it was very interesting. A good mixture of names I remember and ones I’ve never heard of, at least, not until this morning. I looked at the photos in the Eddie Meyer Display using the link. Very interesting. I’d never heard of the Simca hemi heads for the little V8. That little flathead V8 found its way under the bonnets of several Morris Minors back in the day. It is a nice short engine, and the Minor engine bay is nice and wide, but it made the little Morris’ go! Bob Campbell is at robertcampbell4. The latest issue is at https://indd.adobe.com/view/a9198bee 89b0 4942 95b5 55c815c94833.

EDITOR IS AMAZED: I send the newsletter to Australia and Bob gets it 24 hours before I even send it. Never say that Aussies aren’t FAST. HINT: His day starts a day earlier than ours.

33) More videos of Jennifer Rodriguez’s work in High School HiddenPioneers.

34) The main thing happening with the Museum right now is the California Hot Rod Reunion a nostalgia laced drag racing tradition since 1992, is back! The event returns to its original name and will get a fresh burst of energy and excitement October 25 27, 2024. The 2024 California Hot Rod Reunion will be produced by Famoso Dragstrip and will benefit the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum. Tickets can be bought through famosodragstrip.com /hotrodreunion/. I also attached the last NHRA Museum newsletter that went out. From Lisa Russo, Museum Manager, Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum. See Website: at www.nhramuseum.org.

35) WE GET LETTERS DEPT: I’ve subscribed to your newsletter for some time. I love it. Thanks for taking the time to put it all together. Steve Shunk

STEVE: Send me news. Things that you love about cars, racing, or have seen or participated in.

AND: I subscribe to your newsletter via the recommendation of Dave Wallace Jr, who’s a cool cat. I recently published a story on the Smothers Brothers Racing Team and the sole surviving car of the 5 original race cars. I imagine your readers will appreciate the contents within, so I would appreciate its inclusion in your next newsletter. See: https://journal.classiccars.com/2024/09/04/the smothers brothers flirtation with oldsmobil e/. The Smothers Brothers’ Flirtation with Oldsmobile, Dick Smothers led a racing team featuring Oldsmobile’s 1969 W

Machines. Here’s the story including the lone survivor, a Cutlass S W31 ragtop, from the diegor 7400 E Monte Cristo Ave, Scottsdale AZ 85260. Taken from The ClassicCars.com Journal: Your daily dose of steel, rubber and soul.

DIEGO: Sorry for the delay as I am recovering from cancer surgery. Thank you for sending me material and I am going to divide it into segments and put one or two items in each weekly issues until the material is exhausted. Great article. Enjoyed it very much. Unfortunately, I am not good with photos, so I will refer everyone back to The ClassicCars.com Journal: Your daily dose of steel, rubber and soul.

36) Randy Walls’ story continued. From there I jumped straight into blown, injected fuel funny cars and somehow survived. Being one of the first fuel funny cars we were all very lucky to survive. Lion’s was always my favorite track with C.J. Hart as their track manager. You just can’t say enough about that man; he knew how to put on a race and keep it fair for all. I also liked to race at my home track at San Diego Raceway in Ramona. I raced at Carlsbad, OCIR, Irwindale, Fontana, Riverside, Phoenix, Sacramento, Albuquerque, US 30, and Gary, Indiana. I raced at drag strips in Florida, Connecticut, and London, which is in Ontario, Canada. I even raced in my home town of Hardinsburg, Kentucky, which finally got a drag strip. (to be continued)

37) Wally’s stories: courtesy of DRIVE Magazine, by Wally Parks (serialized). He convinced me that instead of a self powered rig we should consider a trailer, which I OKd, and the pilot model of NHRA’s Thrush sponsored track dryer was soon underway. What Romeo Palamedes hadn’t told me was that he had already built a jet mounted trailer that he hoped to sell to the highway department, as an ice remover from frozen winter streets – but on its first tests, it catapulted sheets of ice into the air in all directions, and he was left with a trailer and a jet engine which he confessed to me years later.

38) Our next big competition event is the Collie Coalfields 500 on 21 22 September 2024. I’ve mentioned this at length in previous issues of Vintage Metal, so all I’ll say this time is it that will be a great event with big fields of local and interstate competitors in Historic Touring Cars, Formula Vees. One of our Albany members, Keith Hornsey, died recently. Keith, also known as “Bugsey,” was an active worker and competitor with the Albany Classic. Next year’s Northam Motorsport Festival needs volunteers. From Glenn Swarbrick

39) Saturday, October 12 Sunday, October 27, 2024, the Simeone Museum is holding, “It’s A Drag! Too!” The follow up to last year’s “It’s A Drag” exhibition. We’re inviting local drag car owners to submit their vehicles to be part of this special showcase celebrating the vibrant history and culture of drag racing. FAS Foundation, 6825 Norwitch Drive, Philadelphia, PA 19153. From: Simeone at newsletter.

40) Ed Iskenderian: The Legendary Camfather Celebrates 103 Years July 2024, by Donia Moore (continued).

Looking to the Future: As we look to the future, Isky’s legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire new generations of automotive enthusiasts. The principles he championed—innovation, quality, and a relentless pursuit of performance—will remain at the heart of the hot rodding community. Isky Racing Cams, now a globally recognized brand, continues to thrive, carrying forward the traditions and values established by its founder. The company remains at the forefront of camshaft technology, constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible in high performance engineering.

41) Fluidampr will present a live webinar on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, at 9 am PST. Presented by Nick Orefice, Marketing and Project Lead, Fluidampr and Paul Svinicki, President & Owner, Paul’s High Performance. Hosted by Jeff Hammond from SiriusXM, Channel 90. From team.

Ryan Sage, one of the original founders of Formula DRIFT, joined us for the 4th Annual Race Industry Week. Hosted by George Tamayo of RACER.com. team.

42) Charter Local Edition with Bill Montgomery, Marketing Team

Prime Motivation

YouTube. Go to the link: HiddenPioneers.

43) BMC 1100/1300 (ADO16) Austin, Morris, MG, Riley, Wolseley & Vanden Plas models £19.99, by Matthew Vale Paperback, 21×14.8cm 112 pages, 118 pictures, in stock soon. Also in the series: Triumph & Standard, Morris, Rootes (Hillman, Humber, Singer, Sunbeam, Talbot), Rover, Austin, Ford, Riley & Wolseley, Citroën and Jaguar. From: Veloce at newsletter.

44) “Like Gilmore and Walters, Louie Unser and William K. Vanderbilt typify the timeless and uniquely American stories of achievement and greatness, and it is a privilege to have a chance to preserve and celebrate their achievements and values for generations to come.” The patriarch of the Unser racing clan, Louie Unser (1896-1979) won the fabled Pikes Peak Hillclimb nine times between 1934 and 1953, (1934, 1936, 1937, 1938, 1939, 1941, 1946, 1947, 1953) to establish the family dynasty. From George Levy, President of the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America. Sent in by Adam Saal.

45) (Trailblazer Newsletter for September Part 1.) We recently saw a copy of this magazine, DECISION, and the headline cover jumped out at us! Huh? Dennis Agajanian 50+ YEARS of MINISTRY. Is Dennis Agajanian related to the famous race promoter family, J.C. Agajanian Enterprises? We contacted Chris Agajanian to find out. Chris confirmed that Dennis is indeed a member of their family, and they grew up together. Dennis and his twin brother Danny (fraternal twin) are Chris’ cousins and the nephews of J.C. Agajanian Sr. As a matter of fact, Dennis and Danny were recently in town after performing in Alaska together at a Wounded Warriors Festival. Chris Agajanian.

46) Paper Cruisin’ Workshop, Sept 20, 2024, 11AM 2 PM. Little Sparks: Alphabet Roads Sept 21, 2024, 9 10AM. Rally to Idyllwild

Scenic Drive & Tours Sept 28, 2024, 8:45 AM

5 PM. California Car Cover Cruise In Sept 29, 2024, 11 AM 2 PM LUFTGEKÜHLT Pre Party & Car Show October 4, 2024, 6 10 PM. Petersen Automotive Museum info 6060 Wilshire Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90036.

47) SHERM PORTER’s List of Events and car shows for 2024, fuely32. OCTOBER 5 6 Eagle Field Drags & Hot Rod Gathering, ’72/earlier, flag start, tony. OCTOBER 11 13 Viking Charities Classic Car Show, Pre 90’s cars, VikingCarShow. OCTOBER 11 13 ANRA Fall Nationals, Auto Club Famoso Raceway, classicautoCCA. OCTOBER 12 Cars in the Park Show, Vince Dimaggio Park, Marina, ’76 and earlier, www.Marinarotaryclub.org. OCTOBER 13 Ponies by the Sea, Tri County Mustang Club, Harbor View Park, Channel Islands Harbor, Oxnard, CA, Spencer Siebold 805 415 9039.

48) Obitruary: GEORGE POTEET, by David Tremayne restspirit. DEMON DRIVER. Part 8 (cont’d). Yet there was George, the very next day, back on the salt. Looking for all the world like nothing had happened. He was 64 then, greying, stocky. Chuck Yeager in Nomex. But if he was ready, Speed Demon most definitely was not. Led by coroner Peter Wright of F1 ground effect fame, we examined her corpse as it lay naked in the Poteet and Main morgue trailer. We weren’t doing anything officially on the FIA’s behalf, but were a bunch of enthusiasts on a goodwill visit each fascinated not just by the standard of workmanship on the car, but the manner in which all of its safety systems had performed exactly as intended. Such was the construction so painstakingly executed that the cockpit showed zero deformation and kept George so safe that he was unharmed apart from some nasty bruising and general stiffness. That became the cause of much humour, which told you a lot about George’s views on life and the perils of his calling.

49) Types of cars and parts for sale in Australia. The Vintage Speedcar Association (NSW) Newsletter 245th Edition Issue #6, June July 2024. 4 Sale/Wanted: Morton and May Vagabond N.S.W. 23 Speedcar, “Shell Firestone Special.” 6 Cylinder Vauxhall Vagabond engine. New Pro Race Parts Helmet Snell 2020. Wanted RH side axle for Halibrand QC Diff 31 spline adaptors to suit a 6 pin wheel. For Sale Phil Powell’s Ex Don Murray N.S.W. 4 Speedcar V8 Daimler powered. For Sale Blicharski Renault Qld 96, speedcar, built in 1966. For Sale Holden powered Speedcar. For Sale VW Speedcar chassis.

50) BLAST FROM THE PAST…… From the Wally & Barbara Parks story, We Did It Our Way. The minutes of the (SCTA Board) January 28, 1946, meeting stated, “Bob Lloyd of the Idlers nominated Wally Parks. Seconded by Chauncey Crist. The incumbent president, Bozzy Willis was nominated, but declined. No other nominations were heard. Eber Bailey moved nominations be closed. (Babe) Ouse seconded,” and just like that it was official.

51) Kevin Miller, President & CEO, USAC, joined us for the 4th Annual Race Industry Week. Hosted by Ralph Sheheen of SPEED SPORT.

52) The Smothers Brothers’ Flirtation with Oldsmobile, written by Diego Rosenberg for The ClassicCars.com Journal: Your daily dose of steel, rubber and soul. Part 1. The Smothers Brothers’ Flirtation with Oldsmobile, the story of the racing team and the lone surviving race car, by Diego Rosenberg. The Smothers Brothers, a duo who found fame as folk singers and comedians, scored a national variety show in 1967 called The Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour. It quickly developed an edgy reputation due to irreverent attitudes toward topical issues like the Vietnam war, politics, sex, and drugs, themes attractive to the burgeoning Baby Boomer demographic. The success of this brotherly team allowed Dick Smothers to pursue his love for auto racing. He told Popular Hot Rodding in April 1969, “I’ve been intrigued with engines, their sounds and the feel of a piece of race machinery for as long as I can recall, and this is just another way that I can outlet my feelings … it’s my bag, and I’ll dig it for as long as I can.” This led to another team, this one co sponsored by Oldsmobile.

53) Books on Mark Greene’s Cars Year website mentioned by those appearing on Mark’s Podcast. Patrick Hong – Freakonomics by Steven D. Levitt. Adam Pitale – Traction, Get a Grip on Your Business by Gino Wickman, and The Paradox of Choice by

Barry Schwartz. Lance Miller –The Quest Documentary – Michael Brown’s DVD. Tom Cotter – Fifty Shades of Rust by Tom Cotter and TV Tommy Ivo by Tom Cotter. Jacques Vaucher – L’Art l’automobile Auction Book. Denise McCluggage – My Brooks Too Broad for Leaping by Denise McCluggage, Jimmy and Me by Lew Bracker, All But My Life by Ken Purdy