NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
2026 BCA NATIONAL MEET ISSUE
THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE BUICK CLUB OF AMERICA
VOLUME 61, NUMBER 6
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
EDITOR
Pete Phillips pphillips922@gmail.com PO Box 1247 Leonard, Texas 75452 903-436-2851 No texting Office Hours: M-F 9-5 (Central)
ART DIRECTOR
Shannon Olson olsonrsa@gmail.com
PRINTING COMPANY
A row of 1938 Buicks at the 2026 BCA National Meet. Read about this year’s meet beginning on page 15 of this issue.
Call for BOD Candidates .................. 7
BCA OFFICE MANAGERS
For membership, or to replace a lost or damaged Bugle please contact: Cornerstone Registration, Ltd. bca@cornerstonereg.com
Tel: 763-420-7829
Fax: 763-420-7849 PO Box 1715 Maple Grove, MN 55311 Office Hours: M-F 9-5 (Central) ARTICLES: Typed copy should be sent to editor in
MS Word format. If in doubt of facts, check with technical advisors listed in the Bugle. PHOTOS: Set digital cameras on the highest setting. Good quality prints are also accepted, but will not be returned unless requested and return postage is provided. Vertical views are necessary for our cover with a resolution of 240-300 dpi. A brief story and at least five images must be sent to support a cover photo. DEADLINES: Unless otherwise stated, Bugle deadlines are the 24th of each month, six weeks prior to issue date (example: June 24 for August issue), in order to accommodate editorial, design, publishing and postal demands. Please send all ads, articles, photos and artwork to Editor Pete Phillips.
COMING UP…
January/February 2027 1957 Buicks
March 2027 1947 Buicks
Please contact Pete Phillips as soon as possible if you have an article for the Bugle, or if you can help with any of the above upcoming issues.
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Pete Phillips
BCA BUSINESS
My Time with a 1921 Buick Model 44 ........................................ 36 Ed Allmond
Membership Ambassador Program .. 8
Custom-Made Buick Racer ........... 40
Melanie Mauser
Pete Phillips
BCA BUSINESS
1941 Buick Estate Wagon .............. 42
Standard Operating Procedure No. 13 ………………………….… 10 Family Reunion at the 2026 National Meet …………………..... 12 Heather Banhidy
Kirbitz Presented BHA Award for 2026 ………………………...... 14 Bill Anderson
FEATURE ARTICLE
2026 BCA National Meet ............... 15 Pete Phillips
Pete Phillips
1949 Super Sedanet ........................ 44 Pete Phillips
A Very Early 1955 Special ............. 46 Pete Phillips
1959 Canadian LeSabre .................. 48 Pete Phillips
1973 Centurion ............................... 50 Pete Phillips
2008 LaCrosse Super....................... 53 Pete Phillips
2026 Class Awards ………………. 26
DEPARTMENTS
CLASSIFIED ADS
Coming Events…………………………….. 4 President’s Message……..………..……….. 5
Advertising Rates & Information..…. 56 Cars For Sale……………….….….... 58 Parts For Sale………….……..….…. 58 Parts Wanted………………..…..….. 59 Print Media For Sale……….………. 60 Print Media Wanted…………….….. 61 Memorabilia For Sale………….…... 61 Advertising Index…………….……. 61
Obituaries………………………………….. 9 Letters to the Editor…………………….….. 9 BCA 2026 National Meet Forms….. Mail Wrap BCA Technical Advisors………….. Mail Wrap BCA Divisions & Regions………... Mail Wrap
COVER PHOTO: The two oldest cars at the meet: 1911 (left) and 1915 Buicks. Photo by AllinthedetailsNY.com.
BUICK BUGLE
BCA Membership Directory & Handbook, Volume No. 45
On Sale Now!
Volume No. 45 is now on sale through Cornerstone Registration.
USA - All States $10.00 Pricing includes shipping To Order send payment to: Cornerstone Registration PO Box 1715, Maple Grove, MN 55311
LIMITED COPIES AVAILABLE
THE BUICK CLUB OF AMERICA IS SOLICITING ALL CHAPTERS AND REGIONS TO CONSIDER HOSTING A BCA NATIONAL MEET IN 2030 OR A LATER YEAR. These meets are a great way to attract new members and make some income for your Region or Chapter. Multiple chapters can get together to provide additional manpower. Remember, registration and judging are taken care of by others, so you do not have responsibility for that. If you are even remotely interested in pursuing this opportunity, please contact the BCA National Meet Committee Chairman (NMC), Marck Barker at 919233-1973 or at email address: 89reatta@gmail.com for additional information. Assistance is always available from the NMC at no charge. Please consider this request. Thank you, Marck Barker, Chairman, BCA National Meet Committee (NMC)
BCA OFFICE MANAGERS To replace a lost or damaged Bugle: Cornerstone Registration, Ltd.
763-420-7829
DEADLINE REMINDER Our next deadline is November 24th for the January issue of the Bugle. Pete Phillips
pphillips922@gmail.com
PO Box 1247 , Leonard, Texas 75452, 903-436-2851 Office Hours: M-F 9-5 (Central) NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
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coming events HOW TO PLACE YOUR CHAPTER EVENT All listings are FREE to BCA chapters hosting an event. Chapters may list more than one event at a time. Send one copy of your event listing and it will be published through the month of the event. Keep your listings brief. Maximum length is 100 words. Send all coming event notices to the Buick Bugle, PO Box 1247, Leonard, TX 75452 or email to pphillips922@gmail.com. Organizations other than BCA chapters wishing to have an event listed may do so, on a space available basis.
Chapters in need of a certificate of insurance for their event can request a form from the Buick Club of America, c/o Cornerstone Registration, Ltd., PO Box 1715, Maple Grove, MN 55311-6715, Tel: 763-420-7829, Fax: 763-420-7849, Email: bca@cornerstonereg.com. The completed forms must be returned to the Cornerstone office. DO NOT SEND THEM TO, OR CONTACT THE INSURANCE COMPANY DIRECTLY, OR YOUR REQUEST WILL BE DELAYED. Allow six weeks for processing. Last minute requests cannot be guaranteed a certificate.
FEBRUARY 2027
MARCH 2027
JUNE 2027
February 17-23, 2027 - Napier, New Zealand. Join us for five days in the Art Deco Capital of the World. Buick is the featured marque and will lead the parade. Buick vehicles between 1903 and 1949 are eligible. Event will commemorate 100 years since Buick vehicles were assembled in New Zealand. For those travelling from overseas limited spaces will be available in cars so you can be part of this unique experience. Accommodation suggestions and program details email buickrally27@gmail.com.
March 25-27, 2027 - Duncan, Oklahoma. The 21st Annual Auto Swap Meet, including Pre-War, will be held at 2002 S. 13th St., Duncan, OK. 73533. A dedicated Pre-War section is included. Spaces are indoors and outdoors. Free parking & admission, R.V. hook-ups. Outdoor spaces $35; indoor spaces $45. More info at duncanokswapmeet.com or (580) 467-2472, call before 8 pm Central time.
Meet will be held in Spearfish, South Dakota. Watch for more details in future months.
February 21, 2027 - St. Charles, Illinois. 35th Annual BOPC Indoor Swap Meet & Car Corral, co-sponsored by the Chicagoland Chapter, BCA, 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM. Kane County Fairgrounds, 525 S. Randall Road St. Charles, IL. $8 admission. Indoor Heated Vendor Space $45 until 1/31/26, after $50, Large outdoor paved spaces available. Questions or vendor registration, contact: Tony Melone (630)200-6226 (before 9 PM CST) bopcswap.com (website), bopcswap@gmail.com (email)
May 2, 2027 - St. Paul, Minnesota. The Gopher State Chapter, BCA hosts its 40th Spring Extravaganza Car Show & Swap Meet Sunday, May 2, 2027 at the Minnesota State Fairgrounds, Machinery Hill Saint Paul, Minnesota 55113. Any year or make show vehicles and all Buicks are welcome. For updates visit gopherstatebuick.org.
MAY 2027
June 30- July 3, 2027, Bowling Green, KY. The Riviera Owners Association will host it’s 42nd annual meet at the Holiday Inn, University Plaza. Registered members will be active each day with tours, refreshments, and social events from 9am – 10 pm. Everyone is welcomed to stop by on Saturday from 9am – 2pm to view the Rivieras on display. For additional information visit rivowners.org, or contact Ray Knott at ray@rivowners.org.
JULY 2028 July 12-15, 2028 - Flint, Michigan. Save these dates for the 2028 BCA National Meet, which will be held in and around Flint, Michigan. More details when the event gets closer.
JUNE 2027 June 9-12, 2027 - Spearfish, South Dakota. The Buick Club's 2027 National
BCA NATIONAL MEET COMMITTEE (NMC) Marck Barker (NMC Chairman) BCA #45231, 919-233-1973 (NC) 89reata@gmail.com
John DeFiore, BCA #3757 518-384-7807 (NY) defiorejohn@gmail.com
Ed Allmond, BCA #30155 518-456-8909 (NY) cruisemastered@gmail.com
Roy Faries, BCA #25603 (NMC Secretary) 214-354-1348 (TX) rfaries@verizon.net
Heather Banhidy, BCA #14382 (2024 Meet Chair) 440-235-2453 (OH) cowamoo2@aol.com Jerry Courson, BCA #37598 210-601-1780(TX) jerrylcourson@gmail.com
Adam Martin, BCA (Chief Judge) #39765 314-713-1262 (MO) adam@antiqueautomotive service.com
Pete Phillips, BCA #7338 903-4362851 (TX) pphillips922@gmail.com Jeff Schindler, BCA #47629 (2023 Meet Co-Chair) 509-389-9400 (WA) inwbuickenthusiast@ gmail.com Jack Welch, BCA #5387 781-662-4423 (MA) antiquecaddy@gmail.com
Publisher: The Buick Bugle (USPS #480-130) is published monthly by the Buick Club of America, Inc., c/o Cornerstone Registration, Ltd., PO Box 1715, Maple Grove, MN 55311-6715. Tel: 763-420-7829, Fax: 763-420-7849, bca@cornerstonereg.com. Periodical postage paid at Columbus, OH and additional mailing offices. The Buick Bugle (ISSN 0194-8415 is an official publication of the Buick Club of America, Inc. ©2024. POSTMASTER: Send address changes and all administrative questions to: Buick Club of America, Inc., c/o Cornerstone Registration, Ltd., PO Box 1715, Maple Grove, MN 55311-6715. Tel: 763-420-7829 Fax: 763-420-7849 bca@cornerstonereg.com.
president’s message The Buick Club of America The Buick Club of America (BCA) is a non -profit organization dedicated to the preservation and restoration of the automobiles built by Buick Motor Division of General Motors Corporation in Detroit, Michigan, USA.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS PRESIDENT Jerry Courson (2029), BCA #37598 210-601-1780 (TX) jerryLcourson@gmail.com VICE PRESIDENT Tim Turvey (2027), BCA #52410 954-253-0994 (MI) Tim.Turvey@hotmail.com SECRETARY Bill Gorman (2028) BCA# 44900 515-290-6565 (IA) bbgorman35@gmail.com TREASURER Michael Meyer (2027) BCA #51685 386-527-9975 (FL) mjmeyer@synergybilling.com BOARD MEMBERS Marck Barker (2027), BCA #45231 919-233-1973 (NC) 89reatta@gmail.com Adam Martin (2029) BCA #39765 314-713-1262 (MO) adam@antiqueautomotive service.com Sidney Meyer (2028), BCA #15922 727-415-7679 (IN) smeyer2@tampabay.rr.com Ajesh Parikh (2028), BCA #52259 224-578-3384 (IL) ajesh35@hotmail.com Tom Parker (2029) BCA #47685 703-727-3665 (VA) tom60buick@gmail.com
National Meets This is the National Meet issue of the Bugle. For those attending the Albany Meet, you can relive the meet while turning these pages. For those who could not attend this year, you can turn these pages and dream. Attending National Meets provides many opportunities; we see old friends and make new friends. We can look for parts and sell parts we no longer need. We can see and admire hundreds of beautiful Buicks. We can have our cars judged and receive an honest evaluation of how our car stacks up. You can express your opinions at the Membership Meeting and the Board Meeting. In summary, National Meets are one of the major benefits of membership in the Buick Club. It is a goal of the Board of Directors to move National Meets around the country in a way that places a National Meet within a one- or two-day drive of all, or most, of the BCA members, at least once every four or five years. If you have never attended a National Meet, when a National Meet is held within driving distance of your home, attend the meet. Once you attend your first meet, you will attend others. Since National Meets are a major membership benefit, the Board of
NATIONAL BCA OFFICE MANAGERS
Directors established a new position; Director of BCA National Meets. Marck Barker was selected to fill the position. Marck has a vast amount of National Meet experience. The location of a National Meet is selected three or four years before the event. The production of a National Meet requires hundreds of decisions, starting with the site selection and not ending until the last invoice is paid and the “lessons learned” document is reviewed by the National Meet Committee and the Board of Directors. Marck’s experience bridges this entire process. The highquality standard for National Meets will be maintained. Planning for the 54th National Meet in Spearfish, South Dakota is in high gear with nine months (from this writing) remaining until the June 9th start of the meet. The registration form is included in the rear wrap page of this Bugle. The 2027 National Meet Facebook page is up and running, with details of the upcoming meet. This is an opportunity to form groups to convoy to Spearfish. The QR code will take you directly to the Facebook page.
I look forward to seeing you at the 2027 National Meet in Spearfish, South Dakota.
buickclub.org BCA DEPARTMENTS
For membership, or to replace a lost or damaged Bugle:
Judges Training Chairman Bill Gorman, BCA #44900 515-290-6565 ● bbgorman35@gmail.com
Cornerstone Registration, Ltd. bca@cornerstonereg.com
National Chief Judge Adam Martin, BCA #39765 314-713-1262 adam@antiqueautomotiveservice.com
Tel: 763-420-7829
Fax: 763-420-7849 PO Box 1715 Maple Grove, MN 55311 Office Hours: M-F 9:00am to 5:00pm (Central)
National Tour Advisor Bruce Kile, BCA # 3013 678-662-6072 ● sbkile58@aol.com Chapter/Region/Division Coordinator Anne Gibson, BCA #11511 336-599-9589 ● agibson36@gmail.com
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president’s message, continued Pete Phillips, Bugle Editor This issue was delayed due to Pete’s sudden illness which required emergency surgery. As many members know, Pete is a valuable member of the BCA staff. In addition to producing our award-winning magazine, he responds to dozens of member phone calls and emails every month. When he is absent, even for a short period, he is truly missed.
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I am pleased to report that Pete is back in the saddle and working on future editions of the Bugle. In fact, soon after he was released from the hospital, Pete was busy producing this edition. Pete, it’s good having you back to work. We wish you a quick and full recovery.
Jerry Courson
BUICK BUGLE
BOARD OF DIRECTORS NOMINATIONS DUE
agendas. Ownership of a Buick is not a requirement but if you do own some, members would be interested in which year or era of Buicks you own.
DO YOU WANT TO HELP RUN You should mention any skills or experience you have had at the chapter or division level of our OUR CLUB? club, and what your goals are for By Pete Phillips, BCA #7338, Bugle Editor
In a few months, three seats of the Buick Club’s Board of Directors will be up for election. The new terms begin at the conclusion of the board meeting during the club’s annual meet, which will be in Spearfish, South Dakota in June. The April issue of the magazine will contain the ballot and election write-ups for all candidates. Since the April issue is put together during the month of February, the deadline for write-ups and photos of the candidates is February 24, 2027. You can nominate yourself. Your membership in the club must be current. These are volunteer positions, with up to $700 travel expenses reimbursed when there is a face-to-face board meeting. Most of the meetings are done by conference phone call or “Zoom” on your computer, so it is assumed that you have a computer and can receive and send emailed
the future of the club. Ideas for membership growth are always welcomed. Local, regional, or national meet experience is also good to mention in your write-up, since some of the board’s work involves national meet policies and procedures, as well as selection of future national meet sites. Write-ups should be approximately 600 words (about one page in the magazine), but we will try to accommodate longer ones. You should also include a photo of yourself from the shoulders up, plus your BCA member number and hometown location. Please send all photos and write-ups to Pete Phillips, Bugle Editor, at pphillips922@gmail.com, or PO Box 1247, Leonard, TX. 75452, by February 24th. ♦
Want extra copies of the Buick Bugle? (current and back issues) MAGAZINES ON YOUR YEAR OF BUICK Order from the North Texas Chapter, BCA, PO Box 1247, Leonard, TX 75452. 903-436-2851. No texting $8.00 per copy, includes US postage. $12.00 per copy for foreign addresses. $14.00 for the November 2016 issue to US address. January 2018 - 1968 Buicks February 2018 - 1924 Buicks July 2016 - 1956 Buicks August 2015 - 1940 Buicks July 2014 - 1922 Buicks NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
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recognized for their efforts. Red Badge – Those who recruited 3-7 members • Tom Ferencz • Pete Phillips • Jack Welch Members Not Present – The badges will be mailed to their home. • Don Adams • Henry Imondi • Bob’s Automobilia Blue Badge – Those who recruited 8-15 members • Marck Barker
THE MEMBERSHIP AMBASSADOR PROGRAM By Melanie Mauser, BCA #8185
Many clubs and organizations have experienced a drop in membership for a number of years due to the younger generation not having quite the same interest in belonging to clubs. Our BCA is no different, in that the number of members passing away has steadily increased. We bring in new members but are unable to bridge the gap. The BCA takes membership growth seriously as it is vital to keeping our club strong. We have implemented a program, the Membership Ambassador Program, to encourage our BCA members to help recruit new members.
Cornerstone Registration has kept an on-going tally of all the BCA members that recruited new members since they took over the BCA Office for Mike & Nancy Book. (This program was started years ago but when Cornerstone took over, the records weren’t forwarded.) Every year at our National Meet going forward, our Membership Ambassadors will be recognized at the Saturday evening banquet.
YOUR NAME HERE
MEMBERSHIP AMBASSADOR BUICK CLUB OF AMERICA
YOUR NAME HERE MEMBERSHIP AMBASSADOR BUICK CLUB OF AMERICA
YOUR NAME HERE
White Badge – Those who recruited 16-24 members • Roy Faries • Bob Starzyk
MEMBERSHIP AMBASSADOR BUICK CLUB OF AMERICA
Silver Badge – Those who recruited 25-49 members • Melanie Mauser
YOUR NAME HERE
Gold Badge – Those who recruit 50+ members BECOME A BCA MEMBERSHIP AMBASSADOR
MEMBERSHIP AMBASSADOR BUICK CLUB OF AMERICA
YOUR NAME HERE
MEMBERSHIP AMBASSADOR BUICK CLUB OF AMERICA I would like to encourage all of you to become a Membership Ambassador. It’s very simple: •
Hand out a membership application to a prospective member the next time you run into a fellow Buick gearhead (you might keep a couple forms and an old issue of the Bugle in your glovebox).
•
Don’t forget to list your name and BCA# to get credit for your referral. The spot is located on the right side of the application. If you are at an event, be sure to include the event and date.
•
When you recruit three or more new members, you will receive a name badge (the color will reflect the number of members you recruited). Cornerstone will keep an ongoing tally.
•
The top recruiter for the year will be eligible to receive the Gerstkemper Award.
Please recognize your assistance is vital in keeping the BCA alive for many years to come! THE 2026 MEMBERSHIP AMBASSADORS At our recent National Meet, the following BCA members were
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To download and print extra membership forms, visit buickclub.org and click on “Join/ Renew.” BUICK BUGLE
Obituaries F r e d s y r d a l , C a m b r i d g e , M i n n e s o t a B C A # 2 6 8 0 7 September 28, 1943 - August 23, 2026 Submitted by Kris Syrdal Fred was a 35 year member of the Gopher State Chapter of the Buick Club of America. He owned many cars over the years but was best known for his 1969 Sportwagon. He was the longtime editor of the chapter newsletter and served as treasurer. He instilled a lifelong love of automobiles into his children and was a good friend and source of information to all and will be missed.
R i c h a r d “ D i c k ” B e c k l e y , J r . L e w i s b e r r y , P e n n s y l v a n i a B C A # 7 8 9 6 November 18, 1939 - September 18, 2026
We have been informed by Larry DiBarry that former Mason/Dixon Chapter Director, Dick Beckley, of Lewisberry, Pennsylvania, passed away Friday, September 19th at the age of 86.
Dick had been suffering from a blood cancer for the last several years. He owned an exquisitely restored 1937 Roadmaster convertible sedan, among other Buicks.
letters to the editor ABOUT THE AUGUST 2026 ISSUE Pete, I certainly did appreciate those two compelling articles in the August 2026 issue of the Bugle. One article dealt with the Technical Tip from member Bill Kubik and the mystery of his ailing '58 Limited. It left me with a lot of questions. How did his vehicle sustain all this damage for the 30 years that he owned it? Is it a matter of too many cooks in the kitchen? I have owned my '57 Special since 2007. The engine and transmission are original to the car. No one worked on it, but the mechanic at the shop hired by the original owner in Florida. Since I bought the Special I never experienced any damage like shown in the article. Perhaps maintainers not very familiar with Buicks are the culprits in this case, and my heartfelt feelings go out to Mr. Kubik and I wish him smooth sailing ahead with his '58 Limited. As to your article on the '37 Century, it left me somewhat edgy as my '57 sits a lot in the garage, but I get to run it around in the summer and I maintain it above and beyond what it requires. All the fluids get changed every 1,000 miles, and get recycled into
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
my neighbor's old vehicles. Maybe that's why my Buick runs so well with 100,000 on the odometer. The battery is always up to charge and the heat up to temperature in the garage. I will probably have this Buick until I pass on, however, it will go to my brother in Arizona and the climate there might be awful for the old car to sustain. Thanks again for the wonderful stewardship you produce in the Bugle. We are very lucky to have you and the great magazine you put out. How you do it with a business to run is beyond me. Keep 'em rolling. Jesse Patton, BCA #42253, West Babylon, New York
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bca business
Standard Operating Procedure NO. 13 Subject: BCA Annual Board of Directors Election Procedures Authorization: Approved by the Board of Directors, September 21,1996 and amended thereafter on July 20, 1997, May 20, 2000, June 19, 2004, July 28, 2007, December 2014 and August 21, 2026 Background: Article IV of the Bylaws of the Buick Club of America authorizes background nomination and election of the Board of Directors of the BCA. If there are only three candidates for three open positions the Board of Directors will not hold elections. All Candidates will be required to submit their background information to the Board and Bugle Editor for publishing.
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Procedure: Upon identification of a spouse by the BCA member, both the BCA member and his/her spouse shall be voting members of the BCA in the annual election of members of the Board of Directors of the BCA. Spouses identified on the BCA membership application shall also be identified on the mailing label for the Bugle and shall automatically be considered voting members of the BCA without and additional action on the part of the member/spouse. Any status change must be made prior to sending the mailing list to the printing house. Once added to the mailing database a spouse shall remain as voting members of the BCA until such time as the membership is terminated or the BCA Office is notified of any changes. There will be no additional charge assessed by the BCA to obtain spousal voting privileges. Note: BCA Lifetime memberships are not transferable. Upon the death of a lifetime member, the spouse’s membership and voting privileges shall cease. The voting procedures will be written on the front cover of the Bugle, in close proximity to the actual ballot. Each ballot will contain two columns, a column for the BCA member’s vote and a second column for the spouse’s vote, if eligible. If only the member's name appears on the address information, only the member’s vote will be counted.
BUICK BUGLE
bca business The member’s name, address and the BCA number will be printed on the ballot by the Bugle printer, and will be used to verify the voting eligibility of the member and the spouse. Vote for no more than three candidates per column unless otherwise instructed. If more selections are made than allowed on the ballot in the column, then all votes will be invalid. The member must use the Member column on the ballot. Votes in the Spouse Column will be disregarded if the BCA mailing address does not contain the names of both the BCA member and the spouse. BCA ballots for the annual Board of Directors election shall be mailed directly to the PO Box printed on the reverse side of the ballot, and must be received by the closing date shown on the ballot. The BCA Board has selected its accounting firm to receive the ballots, perform the validation and count the ballots. They will certify the election results based on the BCA By-Laws and the procedures described in the SOP. They will initiate the counting of the ballots as soon as possible after the final closing date for the receipt of the ballots, as listed on the ballot (normally June 10th). The accounting firm will provide the election certification results to the BCA President as soon as the counting process has been completed. The President will immediately advise the election results to the Board of Directors and personally all the Board candidates of the results, as described in SOP No. 14 All ballots are to be retained and given to the BCA Office for retention for one calendar year. ♦
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
Rusty Small
816-654-3400 smallhurst@gmail.com Follow “Rusted Tires” on Facebook for show schedules and updates
Your one-stop reproduction tire and rim specialist! Goodyear, BF Goodrich & Firestone are just a call away. Professional Help - Personal Service
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AT THE 2026 NATIONAL MEET By Heather Banhidy, BCA#14382 Our family got involved with the Buick Club of America in February of 1981, when our parents, Elmer and Margie McCullough (BCA#10997) joined the club and became members of the North East Ohio Chapter. Dad was just getting ready to have our 1962 Wildcat undergo a complete restoration. They ordered the car brand new in May of 1962, from Lake Buick in Cleveland, Ohio. It was the family car and Mom’s daily driver until it was At left: Reunion of the former owners with the current owner at the Albany meet (l to r: Anthony Zottoli; Heather Banhidy; and her brother Brian McCollough)
The 1969 Skylark Custom convertible at this year’s national meet.
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BUICK BUGLE
The 1969 still sports its original Cameo Cream paint color and a black convertible top.
replaced with a 1981 Regal Limited. I was a 16-yr old new driver, and the Wildcat was supposed to become my first set of wheels…but then we were recruited into the BCA. The Wildcat went in for her rehab, and no car for me.
In 2010, we made the very tough decision to part with the “TOY.” Mom and Dad were both in senior care, due to declining health, and it became necessary to let the car go. She left our family home in July of 2010, and we hadn’t seen her since.
A few years passed and my brother Brian (BCA#17373) started driving. Dad decided to find a car we could share. He had heard about a 1969 Skylark Custom convertible at a local dealership, so he and Mom went to check it out. When they arrived to test drive it, they learned that a young couple was attempting to purchase it and had applied for a loan. Dad informed the salesman that he would be back with cash if the deal fell through. Three days later, the beautiful Cameo Cream Skylark was parked in our garage! She was a beauty and Dad decided she was too nice for a couple of teen drivers. So, we lost out again!
She was sold to someone local, but in 2019, we learned through an article in the February issue of the Bugle that she had changed hands a few more times before finding her current loving home with the Anthony Zottoli family, in Oceanside, New York. Anthony (BCA#50043) joined the Buick Club after he purchased the car in 2018, and he wrote the article hoping to obtain some information on previous owners.
The ’69 was thoroughly enjoyed by our family – she went to numerous BCA Nationals, Great Lakes Regionals, B.O.P.s, and McLaughlin Meets. She was in more Memorial Day and 4th of July parades than we can count, as well as local car shows. Our favorite outing with her was going for ice cream! When it came time to order license plates, Dad came up with the perfect one – “R69TOY.”
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
My late-husband found Anthony’s phone number in the BCA roster, and we filled him in with as much back history as we could. Both families have kept in touch ever since, sharing pictures and updates. At this year’s BCA National Meet, in Albany, my brother and I had the great pleasure of meeting Anthony, and his daughter Sabrina, in person and getting to see the “TOY” again! It was a joy to see how beautiful the car still looks, and to see that it is in the perfect family to enjoy her. We wish them many happy miles ahead, and look forward to seeing our “extended family” again! ♦
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A Flint native, Kevin’s involvement with Buick is deep and wide. It began with his family. His parents spent 62 years working for GM. Kevin earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering and a master’s degree in manufacturing management from the GM Institute, now Kettering University. In his initial years at GM, Kevin’s assignments spanned manufacturing, quality, product development and communications. Along the way, he received the GM Chairman’s Honors Award. He was the engineering manager in Advanced Vehicle Development, at GM’s Technical Center, before becoming Manager of GM’s Heritage Center and Factory One. A few years ago, he oversaw the transformation of Factory One, the 19th century Durant-Dort Carriage Company building, into a modern community resource, that honors the visionaries who helped make GM possible. Now, Kevin is managing the conversion of the Service and Parts Operations and Customer Care and Aftersales building, in nearby Grand Blanc, into a world class museum, showcasing over 400 historic and experimental GM cars and artifacts. The Museum is expected to open in the fall of 2027.
Kirbitz Presented BHA Award for 2026 By Bill Anderson, BHA Vice-President
Kevin M. Kirbitz, Manager of GM’s Heritage Center and Factory One, in Flint, Michigan, was presented with the Buick Heritage Alliance (BHA) Award for 2026, during Back to the Bricks August 15, 2026. He is the 16th person granted the award since it was created in 2012. The BHA Award recognizes Kevin Kirbitz for his significant contributions over 35 years, to preserve the history of Buick automobiles, as a historian and the Director of the General Motors Heritage Center. Above; Bill Anderson (right) presents Kevin Kirbitz with the BHA Award for 2026.
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Kevin’s lifelong interest in GM history grew into an avocation. His work has been cited in Buick: A Complete History and Images of America, Chevrolet. He also collaborated with his mentor, author Lawrence R. Gustin, the first BHA Award recipient, on David Buick’s Marvelous Motor Car: The Men and the Automobile That Launched General Motors. Kevin’s contributions to Buick and GM history have been honored with the BCA’s Terry Dunham Literary Award, the Buick Motor Division’s Buick Heritage Trophy and Sloan Museum’s inaugural Discovery Award for Outstanding Leadership in History. He also has served as President of the Society of Automotive Historians. ABOUT THE BHA AWARD The Buick Heritage Alliance was organized in June 2004, to preserve and celebrate the rich heritage of Buick Automobiles and the people who made them. The BHA Award was conceived in 2012, and is presented annually to recognize an individual's notable accomplishment that fulfills the BHA's purpose. The BHA Award consists of a four feet tall permanent trophy that was inspired by the Indy Borg-Warner Trophy and the Daytona 500 Harley Earl Trophy. It includes 100 plates, on which are inscribed each winner’s name, year of award and succinct statement describing the reason for the award.
The permanent trophy includes elements of Buick history; oak that framed early Buicks provides the base, Buick styling excellence is represented by flowing dual arches and a stylistic, polished aluminum ventiport surrounds a bronze casting at the apex of both arches. The bronze casting has special significance as it is an exact replica of the casting that graced the Manufacturer’s Trophy, given by the Buick Motor Division of GM at the 1971 and 1972 National Meets of the Buick Club of America. In addition to having their names and accomplishments inscribed on the permanent trophy, each winner receives a shadow box incorporating one of the bronze castings and a plate inscribed with the winner’s name, year of award, and succinct statement describing the reason for the award. ♦
BUICK BUGLE
2026 BCA NATIONAL MEET AUGUST 19-22, 2026 By Pete Phillips, BCA #7338, Bugle Editor Photos by Pete Phillips & Corey Ward, AllinthedetailsNY.com
This year's BCA national meet was held relatively late in the summer compared to our previous national meets. Albany, New York was the location, right down the street from the Albany International Airport, at the Desmond Crown Plaza Hotel. Our hosts were the members of the Upstate New York Chapter. The weather cooperated most of the time, with only a light rain slowing things down on Thursday afternoon. Meet co-chairmen John DeFiore and Ed Allmond worked night and day to keep things running smoothly, to say nothing of the months and months of advance preparations. Each show car had its own parking space, marked with the owner's name and year/model of car. This makes for an enormous amount of preparation work, but keeps the cars lined up in their chosen judging classes, without having to be moved before Saturday morning's judging. BCA members from New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, and the
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
six New England states attended with show cars. The nice thing about moving the national meets around the country to different locations each year is that you get to see cars that you have not seen, and cars that have never been to a national meet before. A total of 260 Buicks were on display, plus a few more in the “for sale” area. The oldest car was a 1911. The most unusual car had to have been the custom-made, 1932-1934 race car/roadster belonging to John Corey. It featured a 1933 grille, 1932 engine, and 1934 hood and cowl. He did the work himself, over many years. There were five of the yellow and black 1970 GSX Buicks at this meet—three in the 400-point judging and two unrestored Above; Judging day on Saturday, and nearly every parking space is taken.
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Matt Whitaker's 1947 Roadmaster convertible..
The oldest car at the meet was this 1911 touring car owned by Gregory Palazzo.
ones in the Archival class. And how often do you see two 1951 Roadmaster convertibles parked next to each other at a Buick meet? This meet had them. Buick-powered race cars? This meet had them. Contemporary class late-model Buicks? This meet
had them. The meet registration room, handled by Roy and Michelle Faries, opened on Tuesday afternoon for the early arrivals. Meet
1964 Wildcat with year-of-manufacture license plate and a couple of appropriate bumper stickers.
This beautiful 1955 Super, model 56-R, was for sale in the swap meet area.
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Lots of antique Buick parts were also for sale in the outdoor swap area.
BUICK BUGLE
Beautiful 1938 Special parked in front of the hotel.
A gleaming 1965 Electra 225 in the Modified class.
merchandise, including T-shirts and caps, was handled by Brian and Kim Clark. The outdoor swap meet offered a handful of Buicks for sale and parts from several vendors. The indoor swap meet, which began on Wednesday afternoon, had more Buick
parts and also literature for sale. On Wednesday afternoon the annual Reatta Rendezvous lined up and headed out, with more than a dozen Reattas participating.
The Pre-War Buicks tour lines up in front of the hotel, preparing to head out.
A selection of new 2026 Buicks was on display, courtesy of Goldstein Buick/GMC, which supports the local chapter. They are located in the Albany suburb of Colonie.
1990 Reatta convertible owned by Jeff Pyle of Delaware.
Meet poster in the lobby of the hotel.
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More parts for sale at the indoor swap meet.
Can anyone identify the purpose or original location of this sign?
There were 98 cars in the 400-point judging classes; 107 for “display only”; 32 in the Archival/Unrestored class; 19 Senior cars; and 83 Driven Awards for Buicks that were driven to the meet. Frank Cwikla won the Pre-War Long Distance award, driving his 1940 Roadmaster sedan 1,081 miles from his home in Wisconsin. Paul Gomberg won the Post-War Long Distance award, having driven his 1991 Reatta 1,746 miles from Montgomery, Texas (near Houston).
The Guy Bennett Award for the highest scoring Pre-War Buick went to a dark blue, 1934 model 57 four-door sedan owned by Ken Mucherino. The car looked like it had just been given a fresh restoration, but we understand that it has been several years since the restoration. In any event, the car looked absolutely flawless.
1994 Roadmaster wagon, very creatively modified.
These Contemporary Class Buicks parked together—by accident or intentionally?
1976 Century Pace Car replica, an unrestored car owned by Jim Bennett of Wayland, New York.
A pair of 1969 Skylark convertibles.
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The Spirit of Buick award, given by Nicola Bulgari to the person who best exemplifies or defines the spirit of Buick and
BUICK BUGLE
A big “thank you” to Bob Starzyk (left) and Melanie Mauser who stepped down at the end of their terms after many years of service on the BCA Board of Directors.
1931 model 66-S coupe owned by James Bockin of New Jersey.
works towards keeping that alive, went to long-time BCA member Ron DeGroff of the Finger Lakes Chapter in New York. Ron was in attendance with his 1960 LeSabre convertible. Ron has been a chapter Director, a National Meet Chairman, and along with the late Wray Kniffen, responsible for the BCA's tent and presence at the AACA's Hershey Swap Meet each year.
The Buick Heritage Alliance's annual award went to Kevin Kirbitz of Grand Blanc, Michigan. Kevin is a BCA member and a GM engineer who is responsible for General Motors' Heritage Archive and Special Collections, such as Factory One in Flint and the G.M. historic collection in Grand Blanc (which will be the site of the BCA's 2028 national meet). Kevin is also coauthor, with Larry Gustin, of the book David Buick’s Marvelous
More antique Buick parts for sale in the outdoor swap meet.
Ron DeGroff's 1960 LeSabre convertible was one of three blue ones at the meet. Look carefully and you can see the other two behind it.
This perfectly restored 1967 Opel Kadett was the only Opel at the meet.
Ken Mucherino's immaculate 1934 model 57 received the Guy Bennett Award, which goes to the highest scoring 1903-1942 Buick at the meet.
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There were five 1959 Buicks at this meet.
1939 Roadmaster sedan with some modifications, owned by Jim Montenaro of Amsterdam, New York.
This 1960 LeSabre two-door hardtop, owned by Danielle Korek, received the Keith Horsfall Award for the best car in the Modified Class.
Motor Car, and is Past President of the Society of Automotive Historians. The Keith Horsfall Award for the best modified Buick went to Danielle Korek of Pennsylvania for a stunning 1960 LeSabre two-door hardtop. The Al Dann Memorial Award for the best woody wagon in the show went to a 1941 Special Estate Wagon, owned by Steve Parent of Rhode Island. This car was restored about 30 years ago by the late Bill Bergstrom of Massachusetts, and is still in spectacular condition. The Brashares Family Award for the highest scoring 1946-1970 Buick went to Ken and Rose Laytin’s 1954 Roadmaster
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Edwin Buiter (left) and Brian DePouli (right) present Ron DeGroff with the 2026 Spirit of Buick Award from Nicola Bulgari..
convertible, which was driven from their home in southeastern Massachusetts to this meet. Ken says he doesn’t own a trailer, so the car gets driven to wherever it goes. The Davis-Miller Skylark Award went to a 1968 GS-400 convertible owned by Mike Trommetter of Lancaster, New York. Unfortunately, this car did not visit the Photo Stop at the meet, so we have no photos of it. The staff at the host hotel went to great lengths to provide good service and to meet the special requests of the event’s organizers. The food at the awards banquet on Saturday night was especially good. Next year’s national meet happens approximately eight months
BUICK BUGLE
Steve Parent's 1941 Special Estate Wagon received the Al Dann Memorial Award for the best woody wagon at the meet.
Frank Cwikla received the Pre-War Long Distance Driven award, driving his 1940 Roadmaster over 1,100 miles from Wisconsin.
This is Frank's 1940 Roadmaster, driven to the meet from Wisconsin.
Paul Gomberg won the Post-War Long Distance Driven award, driving this 1991 Reatta (foreground) more than 1,700 miles from Montgomery, Texas.
1957 and 1941 Buicks on the show field.
1973 Electra 225 and a unique chair belonging to Anthony Liccardi of Rockland, N.Y.
from now, in Spearfish, South Dakota, June 9-12, 2027. The relatively early dates were chosen to provide lower hotel rates
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and better hotel availability, compared to dates in July—and perhaps, milder weather than in July or August. ♦
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A row of 1938 Buicks.
A row of 1990s Roadmaster Estate Wagons in the Archival/Unrestored class.
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BUICK BUGLE
A pair of 1965 Riveras.
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Registration and tallying of judging results always go smoothly, thanks to these two: Michelle and Roy Faries.
The Pre-War Tour visited the Bennington Battle Monument in Bennington, Vermont.
There were five, yellow, 1970 GSX Buicks at this meet. These two were in the Archival/Unrestored class.
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The hard-working meet Co-chairmen enjoying a ride in a 1921 roadster: Ed Allmond driving; and John DeFiore riding.
And these three were in the 400-point judging class.
BUICK BUGLE
John Johnson drove this mostly unrestored 1950 Super all the way from Mundelein, Illinois. Upon arrival, he slipped on a hotel luggage cart, and spent most of the meet in a wheelchair. It's a Dynaflow car, so he was able to drive home.
Although not registered for the meet, this rare 1953 Roadmaster Estate Wagon, model 79, was seen in the hotel's parking lot.
Two '59s after Thursday evening's rain.
1969 Skylark owned by Edmund Williams of E. Elmhurst, New York.
Tom Gestwick wipes off his 1967 GS-340. Tom bought this car new.
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1948 and 1947 Roadmasters.
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2026 CLASS AWARDS
1911 Touring
1931 coupe
1938 Limited
1915 roadster
1938 Century model 61
1940 Super
1941 Roadmaster
1938 Special convertible
1953 Special
Class Description A 1903-1913 B 1914-1935 B 1914-1935 B 1914-1935 C 1936-1939 C 1936-1939 C 1936-1939 D 1940-1941 D 1940-1941 D 1940-1941 D 1940-1941 E 1942-1948 & 1949 Specials F 1949-1953 Straight 8 F 1949-1953 Straight 8
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Year 1911 1915 1934 1931 1938 1938 1938 1941 1940 1940 1941 1948 1951 1953
Model Name Touring Roadster 57 Special Special Limited Century Roadmaster Super Special Special Roadmaster Roadmaster Special Deluxe
Name Gregory Palazzo Jeffrey Morton Ken Mucherino James Bockin Steve Tallman John Ducey Tim Lipke Michael Oleary Trace Burris Brian Coutu Steven Parent Jim Schlauch Frank Starkes Peter Riggi
Location Sanford, NC Rumson, NJ Monroe, CT Barnegat, NJ Pittsfield, NH Gaylordsville, CT Canastota, NY East Falmouth, MA Middletown, DE Rochester, NY North Smithfield, RI Kintnersville, PA Claverack, NY Gansevoort, NY
Award Gold New Senior Silver Gold New Senior Gold New Senior Silver Gold New Senior Gold Bronze Senior - No Award Gold Gold Gold New Senior Gold New Senior Gold New Senior
BUICK BUGLE
2026 CLASS AWARDS
1956 Roadmaster convertible
1959 LeSabre
1960 LeSabre convertible x 2
1959 Electra 225 convertible
1959 LeSabre convertible
1957 Super
1963 Skylark
1965 Skylark
1962 Special convertible
Class Description H 1953-1956 V-8 H 1953-1956 V-8 I 1957-1958 J 1959-1960 J 1959-1960 J 1959-1960 J 1959-1960 J 1959-1960 J 1959-1960 K 1961-1967 A Bodies K 1961-1967 A Bodies K 1961-1967 A Bodies L-1 1968-2014 A, G, J, N, W, X Bodies L-1 1968-2014 A, G, J, N, W, X Bodies
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Year Model Name Name Location Award 1956 Roadmaster Charles Halpin, III Elkins Park, PA Gold 1954 Roadmaster Ken & Rose Laytin Rochester, MA Senior Pres. - Repeat 1957 Super Sebastian Gazzara Raynham, MA Gold New Senior 1960 LeSabre Ron DeGroff Rochester, NY Gold 1959 LeSabre David McAllister Berry Mills, NB Gold New Senior 1959 Electra 225 Ron Copp Cumberland, ME Gold New Senior 1960 LeSabre Ronald Brusseau E. Northport, NY Senior Pres. - Repeat 1960 LeSabre Denzer Johnson New Rochelle, NY Silver 1959 LeSabre Jim Smith Rush, NY Gold 1965 Skylark William Bush Westlake, OH Silver 1962 Special Deluxe Frank Malfa Pleasantville, NY Gold 1963 Skylark Angelo Mazza W. Springfield, MA Silver 1969 Skylark Custom Lawrence Alssid Wantagh, NY Silver 1969 Skylark Custom Anthony Zottoli Bellmore, NY Silver
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2026 CLASS AWARDS
2014 Regal Turbo
1999 Regal GS
2013 Verano
1990 Regal GS
2008 LaCrosse Super
1965 Wildcat Custom
2013 Regal GS
1963 LeSabre
1962 Wildcat
Class Description Year Model Name L-2 1968-2014 A, G, J, N, W, X Bod. 2014 Regal Turbo L-2 1968-2014 A, G, J, N, W, X Bod. 1999 Regal GS L-2 1968-2014 A, G, J, N, W, X Bod. 1999 Regal GS L-2 1968-2014 A, G, J, N, W, X Bod. 2013 Regal GS L-2 1968-2014 A, G, J, N, W, X Bod. 2008 LaCrosse Super L-2 1968-2014 A, G, J, N, W, X Bod. 2013 Verano L-2 L-2 M M M M M M
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1968-2014 A, G, J, N, W, X Bod. 1990 1968-2014 A, G, J, N, W, X Bod. 2006 1961-1966 B & C Bodies 1964 1961-1966 B & C Bodies 1965 1961-1966 B & C Bodies 1964 1961-1966 B & C Bodies 1963 1961-1966 B & C Bodies 1962 1961-1966 B & C Bodies 1966
Name Shar Kile Jim Ryan Bill Gorman John DeFiore Scott Caldiero Edward Allmond
Location Marietta, GA Nesconset, NY Huxley, IA Cropseyville, NY Kodak, TN Schenectady, NY
Award Gold New Senior Silver Gold Senior Pres. - 1st Gold Senior Pres. - 1st Senior Pres. - ReRegal GS Kevin Myers Lorain, OH peat Lucerne CX Wayne Laytin Walden, NY Gold New Senior Wildcat Michael Francioni Kings Park, NY Gold New Senior Wildcat Custom Jean-Francois Corriveau Trois-Rivieres, QC Silver Wildcat Francis Catanzarita Skaneateles, NY Gold LeSabre Paul Cialone Danbury, CT Bronze Wildcat Brian McCullough North Olmsted, OH Gold Wildcat Custom Bill Bartlett, Jr. New Gloucester, ME Gold
BUICK BUGLE
2026 CLASS AWARDS
1972 GS
1958 Century
1965 Skylark GS
1966 Special
1969 Sportwagon
1936 Century coupe
1977 LeSabre coupe
1960 LeSabre convertible
1960 LeSabre hardtop
Class M Mod. Mod. Mod.
Description 1961-1966 B & C Bodies Modified Buicks Modified Buicks Modified Buicks
Year 1964 1972 1958 1994
Mod. Mod. Mod. Mod. Mod. Mod. Mod. Mod. Mod. Mod.
Modified Buicks Modified Buicks Modified Buicks Modified Buicks Modified Buicks Modified Buicks Modified Buicks Modified Buicks Modified Buicks Modified Buicks
1965 1966 1957 1985 1960 1936 1977 1965 1970 1960
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Model Name Electra 225 GS Century Roadmaster Skylark Gran Sport Special Century LeSabre LeSabre Century LeSabre Custom Electra 225 Custom GS 455 LeSabre
Name Michael Francioni Simone Zalewski Joe Glickman Alan Slavin
Location Kings Park, NY Schenectady, NY Albany, NY Wareham, MA
Award Senior Pres. - 1st Silver Gold Gold
Ken Creary Bud Langmeyer Jeff Barber Aaron Ferrante David Calabrese Marty Gagliano Patrick Juliana Kenneth Costic Brett Slater Danielle Korek
White Plains, NY Gardiner, ME Waverly, NY Providence, RI Wakefield, RI Boonton, NJ Kenosha, WI Port Jervis, NY Taunton, MA New Berlin, PA
Gold Bronze Silver Silver Silver Silver Gold Gold Bronze Gold
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2026 CLASS AWARDS
1992 Roadmaster
2008 Lucerne Super
1973 Electra 225
1987 LeSabre Limited
1995 Roadmaster wagon
2003 Park Avenue Ultra
1987 LeSabre T-Type
1965 Riviera
1965 Riviera GS
Class Description Year Mod. Modified Buicks 1969 N-1 1967-2014 B, C, H Bod. 1992 N-1 1967-2014 B, C, H Bod. 1969 N-1 1967-2014 B, C, H Bod. 1992 N-1 1967-2014 B, C, H Bod. 1973 N-1 1967-2014 B, C, H Bod. 1995 N-2 1967-2014 B, C, H Bod. 1987 N-2 1967-2014 B, C, H Bod. 2003 N-2 1967-2014 B, C, H Bod. 1992 N-2 1967-2014 B, C, H Bod. 2008 N-2 1967-2014 B, C, H Bod. 1987 O-1 Rivieras 1963 - 1978 1965 O-1 Rivieras 1963 - 1978 1965 O-1 Rivieras 1963 - 1978 1965
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Model Name Sportwagon Roadmaster Limited Electra Roadmaster Limited Electra 225 Limited Roadmaster LeSabre Limited Park Avenue Ultra Park Avenue Ultra Lucerne Super LeSabre T-Type Riviera Riviera Riviera Gran Sport
Name Sean LaRose Andy Fuhrman Peter McGrane Nicholas Pagani Anthony Liccardi Troy Damicone Perry Harden Martel Gibson David DeLuca Marc Alssid Patrick Blum Jim & Sue Milewski, Jr. Ned Ticcony John DiFrancesco
Location Dover, NH Ashland, VA Yonkers, NY Riverside, CT Rockland, NY Peninsula, OH Findlay, OH Roxboro, NC Wilmington, DE Bellmore, NY Schenectady, NY Dryden, NY Poughkeepsie, NY Waterbury, CT
Award Gold Senior Pres. - 1st Silver Gold New Senior Gold New Senior Gold New Senior Gold Senior Pres. - 1st Silver Gold New Senior Gold New Senior Bronze Gold Senior Pres. - Repeat
BUICK BUGLE
2026 CLASS AWARDS
1997 Riviera
1967 Riviera
1983 Riviera
1965 Skylark GS convertible
1979 Riviera
1965 Skylark GS convertible
1966 Skylark GS convertible
1966 Skylark GS coupe
1967 GS 340 coupe
Class Description O-1 Rivieras 1963 - 1978 O-1 Rivieras 1963 - 1978 O-1 Rivieras 1963 - 1978 O-2 Rivieras 1979- 1999 O-2 Rivieras 1979- 1999 O-2 Rivieras 1979- 1999 O-2 Rivieras 1979- 1999 P-1 Gran Sport 1965 - 1969 P-1 Gran Sport 1965 - 1969 P-1 Gran Sport 1965 - 1969 P-1 Gran Sport 1965 - 1969 P-1 Gran Sport 1965 - 1969 P-1 Gran Sport 1965 - 1969 P-1 Gran Sport 1965 - 1969
Year Model Name 1973 Riviera 1965 Riviera GS 1967 Riviera 1983 Riviera 1997 Riviera 1997 Riviera 1979 Riviera 1965 Skylark Gran Sport 1969 GS 400 Stage 1 1965 Skylark Gran Sport 1966 Skylark GS 1966 Skylark GS 1968 GS 400 1967 GS 340
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
Name Marshall Chervin Andrew Starr Mark Fargnoli Tom Ferencz Reed Reamsnyder Ron Johnson Harold Mecabe Patrick Guida George Dwyer David Richardson Patrick Gaglione Peter North Mike Trommetter Tom Gestwick
Location Manchester, ME Waterford, VA New Berlin, NY Cleveland, OH Curtice, OH Lemont, IL Glendale, NY West Boylston, MA North Attleboro, MA New Milford, CT Chapel Hill, NC Edmeston, NY Lancaster, NY Boston, NY
Award Senior Pres. - 1st Gold New Senior Silver Senior Pres. - Repeat Gold New Senior Senior Pres. - 1st Senior Pres. - Repeat Gold New Senior Gold New Senior Gold Gold Gold New Senior Gold New Senior Senior Pres. - Repeat
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2026 CLASS AWARDS
Class P-1 P-2 P-2 P-2 P-2 P-2 P-2 Q Q Q Q R R R
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1965 Skylark GS
1970 Skylark GS
1972 GS Stage 1
1991 Reatta
1970 GSX Stage 1
1970 GSX
1987 Grand National
1991 Reatta
1990 Reatta convertible
Description Year Gran Sport 1965 - 1969 1965 Gran Sport 1970 - 1987 1970 Gran Sport 1970 - 1987 1970 Gran Sport 1970 - 1987 1972 Gran Sport 1970 - 1987 1970 Gran Sport 1970 - 1987 1970 Gran Sport 1970 - 1987 1970 GN, GNX, Turbo Regal 1986 GN, GNX, Turbo Regal 1987 GN, GNX, Turbo Regal 1986 GN, GNX, Turbo Regal 1987 1988 - 1991 Reatta 1991 1988 - 1991 Reatta 1990 1988 - 1991 Reatta 1991
Model Name Name Skylark Gran Sport Drew Zarpentine Skylark GS Michael Sobotka GSX Gary Englert GS Stage 1 Phil Fern Skylark GSX Albert Krumm GS 455 Fred Hickey GSX Bradford McAdam Regal T-Type William Farnham Regal Turbo T Ben Graybill Grand National John Milza Grand National John Csordas Reatta David Shipman Reatta MaryAnna Morrow Reatta Nicholas Branoff
Location Award Hackettstown, NJ Senior Pres. - 1st Jerome, ID Gold New Senior Pittsburgh, PA Senior Pres. - Repeat Pleasant Valley, NY Senior Pres. - 1st Red Hook, NY Silver Andover, NJ Bronze Churchville, NY Gold New Senior Middletown, CT Gold New Senior Selinsgrove, PA Gold New Senior Queensbury, NY Bronze Putnam Valley, NY Gold New Senior Weymouth, MA Gold New Senior Clifton Springs, NY Gold New Senior Fenton, MI Gold New Senior
BUICK BUGLE
2026 CLASS AWARDS
1990 Reatta convertible
1991 Reatta
1990 Reatta
1990 Reatta convertible
1991 Reatta
1962 Electra 225
1955 Special
1961 Electra
1949 Super
Class Description R 1988 - 1991 Reatta R 1988 - 1991 Reatta R 1988 - 1991 Reatta R 1988 - 1991 Reatta R 1988 - 1991 Reatta R 1988 - 1991 Reatta R 1988 - 1991 Reatta U-1 Archival / Unrestored 1904-1969 U-1 Archival / Unrestored 1904-1969 U-1 Archival / Unrestored 1904-1969 U-1 Archival / Unrestored 1904-1969 U-1 Archival / Unrestored 1904-1969 U-1 Archival / Unrestored 1904-1969 U-1 Archival / Unrestored 1904-1969
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
Year 1991 1990 1990 1991 1990 1990 1991 1959 1967 1962 1967 1955 1961 1949
Model Name Reatta Reatta Reatta Reatta Reatta Reatta Reatta LeSabre Riviera Electra 225 Skylark Special Electra Super
Name Location Award Bob Coffey New Windsor, NY Silver John Scheib, Jr. S. Windsor, CT Gold New Senior Jeff Pyle Wilmington, DE Gold Kevin Martin Pleasantville, NY Silver Patrick Hayes Florence, MA Senior Pres. - 1st George Wilson East Syracuse, NY Gold New Senior Paul Gomberg Montgomery, TX Gold Andre Roy Quebec, QC Archival Jeffrey Hiller Durham, NH Archival Michael Hryhorenko Rochester, NY Archival Edward Allmond Schenectady, NY Archival Elite Brian Warren Jeffersonville, VT Archival Jimmy Shiels Franklin, MA Archival Wayne Youngs Greenfield Center, NY Archival
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2026 CLASS AWARDS
Class U-2 U-2 U-2 U-2 U-2 U-2 U-2 U-2 U-2 U-2 U-2 U-3 U-3 U-3
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1975 LeSabre convertible
1977 Electra Limited
1970 GSX
1976 Century Pace Car
1971 Riviera
1987 Grand National
1993 Riviera
1996 Roadmaster wagon
1997 Riviera
Description Archival / Unrestored 1970-1989 Archival / Unrestored 1970-1989 Archival / Unrestored 1970-1989 Archival / Unrestored 1970-1989 Archival / Unrestored 1970-1989 Archival / Unrestored 1970-1989 Archival / Unrestored 1970-1989 Archival / Unrestored 1970-1989 Archival / Unrestored 1970-1989 Archival / Unrestored 1970-1989 Archival / Unrestored 1970-1989 Archival / Unrestored 1990-2001 Archival / Unrestored 1990-2001 Archival / Unrestored 1990-2001
Year 1973 1975 1977 1987 1970 1973 1970 1976 1973 1971 1975 1993 1996 1997
Model Name Centurion LeSabre Electra Limited Grand National GSX Centurion GS Century Electra 225 Riviera LeSabre Custom Riviera Roadmaster Riviera
Name Location Award Bill MacDonnell W. Hartford, CT Archival Elite Christopher Noulis Nesconset, NY Archival Elite Eric Osgood Johnson, VT Archival Elite Bill Mehrkens Rockville Centre, NY Archival Elite Clement Cook Bohemia, NY Archival Elite Andrew Kollos Islip Terrace, NY Archival Elite Eric Stoldt Massapequa, NY Archival Elite James Bennett Wayland, NY Archival Elite Tom Yanacek Bethlehem, PA Archival Elite Scott Poole Massapequa Park, NY Archival Elite James Taylor Cortlandt Manor, NY Archival Elite Horace Wilson Brook Park, OH Archival Elite John Corey Melrose, NY Archival Elite Stephen Pechenik Troy, NY Archival Elite
BUICK BUGLE
2026 CLASS AWARDS
1995 Riviera
1992 Regal GS
1996 Roadmaster wagon
1994 Regal
2019 Cascada
2018 Regal GS
1967 Opel Kadett
2019 Regal TourX
2020 Regal GS
Class Description U-3 Archival / Unrestored 1990-2001 U-3 Archival / Unrestored 1990-2001 U-3 Archival / Unrestored 1990-2001 U-3 Archival / Unrestored 1990-2001 U-3 Archival / Unrestored 1990-2001 U-3 Archival / Unrestored 1990-2001 V Opels W Contemporary 2015 - 2021 W Contemporary 2015 - 2021 W Contemporary 2015 - 2021 W Contemporary 2015 - 2021 W Contemporary 2015 - 2021 W Contemporary 2015 - 2021
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Year 1995 1996 1994 1992 1996 1992 1967 2018 2017 2019 2016 2020 2019
Model Name Riviera Roadmaster Regal Regal Gran Sport Roadmaster Century Opel Kadett Regal GS Lacrosse Regal Tour X Cascada Regal GS Cascada
Name Sidney Meyer Edward Marcy Frank Hurley III John Cady George Holt Hugh Purnell Gaye Liddick Marck Barker Len Berman Ray Doonkeen Daniel Graves Tom Parker Chip Aeppli
Location Auburn, IN Schenectady, NY Mount Vernon, NY Rushford, NY Whitestone, NY West Chester, PA Halifax, PA Durham, NC Sarasota, FL Oklahoma City, OK Flushing, MI Berryville, VA Tallmadge, OH
Award Archival Elite Archival Elite Archival Elite Archival Elite Archival Elite Archival Elite Gold New Senior Contemporary Contemporary Contemporary Contemporary Contemporary Contemporary
35
MY TIME WITH A 1921 BUICK MODEL 44
Ed Allmond makes a scenic stop along the road to his house— driving the car instead of trailering it.
Tom Black (left) and Kenny Malette (right) looking over the car in the garage at Tom’s house.
Tom Black with the Buick in his garage.
By Ed Allmond, BCA #30155 Photos by the author, by John DeFiore & Pete Phillips
36
Every so often, circumstances bring us to a place we never thought we’d find ourselves. And in this case, the story begins when Dick Andrews, BCA #38090, purchased a 1921 Buick Model 44, a 3-passenger roadster, in 2016. Tom Black, a former Upstate New York Chapter member, owned the car for many years and was reducing his collection. Dick was excited to bring
BUICK BUGLE
All cleaned up and looking good on the trailer.
Ed leaving Northville with his navigator. He kept the top down for the whole ride.
this car to his home in Loudonville, New York, where it kept company with his 1950 Model 46S Sedanet. Dick and Barbara, his wife, enjoyed the car for a couple of years in Loudonville, but eventually brought it to the family summer camp in Willsboro, NY, approximately 130 miles north of their Albany, NY area home. In Willsboro, it was used for parades and casual drives until about 4 years ago when it was parked for mechanical reasons. With Dick battling health issues, the car took a back seat, and was unusable when, sadly, Dick passed away in February, 2025. I had never forgotten the car and, at some point in our national meet planning, John DeFiore (BCA #3757) and I thought it would be a good idea to pay tribute to Dick. Dick was one of our original chapter members, and an early officer of the chapter. He helped us form a vibrant group and participated in every event and show we coordinated since the chapter’s inception. It was only right to display his cars at the meet. We approached Barb, and Bill, their son, with the idea and they were all for it, as was the rest of the Andrews clan. We worked with Barb and Bill to develop a plan to get both the ‘21 and the ‘50 to the meet. We felt the ‘50 would not be a problem as it was already in the local area and was running
Owner Bill Andrews with the ’21 roadster.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
when parked. With a new battery it started right up. But then it turned out to need brake work, which was only discovered when Bill took us for an inaugural ride around the block. It looked like the right rear wheel cylinder was leaking. Getting the brakes back on line was the effort of Bill’s mechanic, who fixed it by refurbishing the wheel cylinders and bleeding the system. Through various complexities, that work was started one week before the meet, and was completed only the day before bringing it to the host hotel for display. The ’21, however, took a little more effort. Our first order of business was to make sure we had access to the car at the family camp. Barb and Bill assured us we could get it out of the garage. We then needed someone to assess the car’s condition and determine what was needed to make it roadworthy. It was decided to contact Tom Black, the prior owner, to see if he would be willing to help. He said he would, provided we bring the car the 115 miles to his place. Tom added we also had to have someplace to put it after the work was done, as he couldn’t keep it for any length of time. Now we had to figure out how to get it from Willsboro to Tom’s house in Northville, NY. Enter Ken Malette, BCA #48488 and,
Our escort’s view of the car being driven.
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The car’s six-cylinder engine. Photo by Pete Phillips.
Steering wheel and floorboards Photo by Pete Phillips.
at the time, Treasurer of the Upstate New York Chapter. Ken agreed to provide his car trailer and tow vehicle to retrieve the car from its Willsboro garage and transport it to Tom’s house. Trying to coordinate an agreeable day between Ken, Tom and me was an additional challenge, but a day was finally found. On the designated day, Ken and I drove to Willsboro, winched the Buick onto the trailer, tied it down, and transported it to Northville. From Tom’s place back to Albany it was another 50 miles making for a 300+ mile round trip day.
105 year old spring, mind you. Tom said that 105 year old spring was more robust than the one installed when he had the unit rebuilt in the mid-2010s. John remembered Dick telling him that an 8-volt battery was installed to overcome the slow turnover issue. But the new battery was back to 6-volts and Tom said the starter worked better than he ever remembered it. I don’t mean to make this sound like an easy task.
Tom was really the right guy for the job. On day one he had diagnosed a starter/generator issue that was preventing the Buick from cranking fast enough to catch and run. Turns out it was a weak spring inside the unit, preventing the solenoid from making good contact. Figuring a spring would have to be ordered from out of state, and thus a delay in fixing the car, Tom asked us to move the ‘21 out of his place.
Just getting the starter/generator off the engine took hours, requiring removal of part of the interior floor pan, not to mention a herculean effort to lift the 50 pound or more assembly off and ultimately back onto the engine. We were sure glad when Tom took that on by himself.
However, when Dick had bought the Buick, Tom had given him many spare parts in the deal, and so we found two spare starter/ generators on the shelf in the Andrews garage. A replacement spring from one of the spare assemblies solved the problem, a
After it was running Tom and Bill worked out plans for additional work on the brakes and a fuel delivery issue. Then it was ready to go, and we needed a way to move it and a place to keep it until the show. Barb had no space at the family home in Loudonville as the garages there housed the ’50 Special and Dick’s other passion, a beautiful ’31 Model A pickup. I offered to store the car and look after it from the garages I rent for my collectible cars near my home. This was only 3 miles from the
The car’s specifications. Photo by Pete Phillips.
Driver’s running board and step plate. Photo by Pete Phillips.
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BUICK BUGLE
Dashboard and gauges. Photo by Pete Phillips.
Rear-mounted spare, tail light, and year-of-manufacture license plate. Photo by Pete Phillips.
host hotel, and my offer was accepted by Barb and Bill. John and I talked about how to transport the car from Tom’s home to my garage. This was a 50-mile trip. At first, we considered calling for a flatbed. Tom said, “You could just drive it”. So I asked Barbara and Bill if they would agree to that. They said you can move it any way you want. So a date was picked to retrieve the Buick. After finding a date when all parties were available, John, his fiancée Sharon Summer, and I headed to Tom’s house. When we arrived, John worried the flatbed would take too long to arrive at the remote location of Tom’s house. So we thought driving it half way and then calling the flatbed would be a better idea. Tom gave me a quick lesson on how to start it, and how to drive it, and we decided to go the half way driven route. Off we went, with John acting as our escort, and Sharon riding with me in the ’21 to keep an eye on traffic buildup behind us. She also kept reminding me of the reverse “H’ shift pattern. Even though I have driven manual shift cars for a long time and currently own two of them, the Buick was totally different from anything I was used to. Double clutching, a reverse 3-speed shift pattern, and rear-only mechanical brakes, were all new to me. A learning experience for sure. However, during the 25-mile ride to the half way point, I felt confident and was having a great time!
Luckily, John knew the back roads in the area and we stayed there as much as possible. We also avoided steep down hills while keeping the limited braking availability in mind. We reached the halfway point and made a stop at a local convenience store to take a break and grab a bite to eat. That’s when I decided to just drive the Buick the rest of the way. When we came out to leave, a small crowd had gathered to take a look at the car. We spent a good 15 minutes or so showing the car to the onlookers and chatting before heading out for the final leg of our journey. We accomplished that with no problems and reached the storage area around 4 pm. I had the car in my possession a little over a month. I received permission from the family to use the car, so I took it to a couple cruise nights near me, and drove it around the neighborhood a
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
On display at the national meet. Photo by Pete Phillips.
few times before taking it to the show. There, it and the ’50 became part of a special display in honor of Dick. As you can imagine, the ‘21 drew a crowd the entire meet, and I gave rides in it whenever I could. Nine members of the Andrews family were in attendance at the awards banquet, where Barb was presented with a Centennial Award for the ’21. The car is now back in the hands of the Andrews family, specifically Bill Andrews. It was a sad day for me when I had to let it go. I quickly got attached to it, as did my wife, Bonnie, who seems to be as smitten with it as I am. My thanks to the Andrews family, John DeFiore, Sharon Summers, Ken Malette and Tom Black for their generosity, time and expertise in bringing this beautiful (and fun!) car back to life. I feel honored to have been a part of the experience. ♦
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CUSTOM-MADE BUICK RACER
By Pete Phillips, BCA #7338, Bugle Editor
The car has a slick, red paint job. The fenders are from a motorcycle.
craftsman when it comes to paint and body work. He built this himself over several years, using parts from several different Buicks, and a couple of other makes.
The most unusual car at the national meet was this custommade, 1930s Buick-powered race car. John Corey is a master
The grille is from a 1933 Buick. The engine is a 1932 50series straight eight, and take a look at the photo of it! The sides of the hood are from a 1934 Buick, cut down to be
The grille is from a 1933 Buick.
The rear of the car is made from two 1949 Cadillac front fenders.
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BUICK BUGLE
1934 Buick gauges in the center of the dashboard and bucket seats from an AMC Pacer.
shorter. The cowl is also from a 1934 Buick, but shorter on the sides. The doors are from a '34, but they have been reversed. The passenger side door is now on the driver's side, and vice-versa, so that both doors now open from the front and are hinged at the rear. The unusual rear of the car is made from a pair of 1949 Cadillac front fenders, if you can visualize that. The two bucket seats are from an AMC Pacer, and they just barely fit in the allotted space. The gauges appear to be from a 1934 Buick, relocated to the center of the dashboard. The engine has a nice, throaty sound and John was seen driving it around the show field on Saturday. ♦ At right; The engine is a 1932 Buick 50series straight eight with four side-draft carburetors.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
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1941 BUICK ESTATE WAGON
By Pete Phillips, BCA #7338, Bugle Editor
1941 was the second year for a factory-produced, Buick station wagon. 1940 was the first year. Prior to that, you may have seen a Buick woody wagon but they were not built by Buick in a Buick factory—a 1938 Cantrell-bodied wagon, for example.
At the Albany meet.
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Side view of the 1941 wagon.
Only 838 Buick Special Estate Wagons were built for the 1941 model year, so they are very rare to begin with. For 1940, only 495 were built, but they were in the Super series. For 1941, the wagons were switched to the Special series, perhaps to lower their relatively high purchase price a little bit. This particular car was restored in the 1990s by the late Bill Bergstrom, who was a long-time member of the Minuteman Chapter in Massachusetts. Bill was a New England area technical representative for General Motors, helping dealerships identify and correct chronic mechanical problems in their cars.
Beautiful wood work on the roof.
BUICK BUGLE
Steering wheel and dashboard. The body was built by Hercules Body Co. of Evansville, Indiana.
The car’s first national meet was in Chicago in 1995, with Bill driving it all night to get there from his home in Barnstable, Massachusetts. He was late arriving, due to an overheating problem which took a long time to solve, and prevented him from having time to secure the dashboard to the cowl—he arrived after dark with the dashboard hanging by a couple
strands of baling wire!
After Bill’s passing, Dave and Joanne Millard of the Long Island Chapter purchased the car and showed it at several Buick meets. Following their recent deaths, current owner Steve Parent, of the Minuteman Chapter, purchased the Buick from the Millard’s estate and brought it to the Albany meet. Steve is in the process of donating the car to the Buick Motorcar Museum. ♦
The car is powered by a 248 cubic inch straight eight.
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1949 SUPER SEDANET Article and photos by Pete Phillips, BCA #7338, Bugle Editor “I’m like a kid at Christmas!” That’s what Wayne Youngs kept saying as he displayed his Archival 1949 Super Sedanet at his first BCA national meet.
He says he has been working to get this car running and ready for the meet for the past two years. He almost had to cancel his attendance due to illness of his 100-year-old mother. She Proof that Wayne grew up with this Buick: That’s him on the right recovered but wasn’t well enough to come with him. That would when the car was almost new. have been special, as this was his parents’ car, starting in 1950 Kay, who would become his wife. Today, 63 years later, he when they bought it at the local Buick dealership. proudly points out that he still has her and the Buick. Wayne grew up on a dairy farm in Boonville, New York—a The Buick is in amazing condition for its age and considering small town in Oneida County in the northern part of the state. the rough winters in the area that it comes from. Wayne says it He still has the documents from when his parents traded a 1940 was his parents’ “Sunday car” and usually only driven in good Chevrolet plus $1,500 at Gleasman’s Parkside Supply weather. It still has its original black paint, original upholstery, (Boonville’s Buick dealer) for the ’49 when it was just a year old. In 1963, when he was 17, Wayne purchased the car from his and shows only 36,000 miles on the odometer. It was last registered in 1979, and was started regularly but not driven for parents for $400 plus a heifer cow. At the time, he was dating 47 years. When Wayne heard that the national meet would be in Albany, he decided that he had to get it ready to be driven to the Above; Wayne poses with his beautiful, unrestored, 1949 Super at the meet. 44 BUICK BUGLE
The ’49 Super is powered by a 248 cubic inch straight eight. Archival class cars are judged on their originality, not their condition.
The car is equipped with a radio, Dynaflow transmission, heater, defroster, and period-correct seat covers to protect the original upholstery.
meet. It was two years of off and on work, finding the parts, rebuilding the entire brake system, and all of the other things you have to do to an old car that’s been sitting for many years.
Happily, Wayne and the Buick made it to the meet, and this rare gem was awarded an Archival plaque. ♦
The odometer shows 36,720 miles.
The 1949 fastback styling makes this one of the most beautiful Post-War Buicks ever built.
Another view of the beautiful fastback styling.
Original trunk liner, spare tire cover, and bumper jack.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
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A VERY EARLY 1955 SPECIAL By Pete Phillips, BCA #7338, Bugle Editor
Above; 1955 Buick Special, model 48.
does have the optional Dynaflow automatic transmission, plus a radio, heater, and two-tone paint. The engine in the 1955 Specials is a 264 cubic inch V-8. More than 61,000 of this model were built by Buick in that record production year.
This 1955 Special two-door sedan is a mostly unrestored car owned by Brian Warren of Jeffersonville, Vermont. It is a model 48, which was Buick's least expensive car in 1955. This one
What makes this car unusual, besides its low mileage and unrestored condition, is the very early, two-piece, upper grille bar. If you look very carefully at a front photo of the car, you will see a thin, cover piece of (probably) stainless steel which
This is an unrestored car from Vermont.
Original gray cloth and vinyl upholstery.
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BUICK BUGLE
The odometer shows a little more than 32,000 miles.
joins the two halves together in the center, and covers the small gap between the two die-cast pieces. Who knew that the upper grille bar in 1955 came in two halves? Not I! By October of 1954, Buick replaced the two halves with the usual one-piece upper grille bar that we are all used to on 1949 through 1957 Buicks. We know this because there is a dealer advisory letter that was issued in October 1954 advising dealer
Here is a better view of the two-piece upper grille bar (actually four pieces, if you include the two end pieces).
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
service personnel that the two-piece upper grille bar was being discontinued in favor of a one-piece upper grille bar. Service personnel were advised to replace any damaged half of an upper grille bar with the revised, one-piece upper grille bar. This car received an Archival award at the meet. Thanks to Brian Warren for bringing it and educating us all about the early, two-piece, 1955 upper grille bars. ♦
From the 1955 Buick Product Service Bulletins book .
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A 1959 CANADIAN LESABRE By Pete Phillips, BCA #7338, Bugle Editor Photos by Pete Phillips, unless noted otherwise Andre Roy is a long-time BCA member from Quebec City, Canada. He is one of our French-speaking members, and he drove this unrestored, 1959 LeSabre to the meet from Quebec.
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Above; Andre Roy with his unrestored LeSabre. The car was built in January 1959 in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada and has a GM of Canada identification plate to prove it. The car was sold new by Wolf Equipment, which apparently was the Buick dealer in Lemberg, Saskatchewan, to Laura Elizabeth Bell, who paid $3,790 plus trade-in of a 1947 Chevrolet for which she received $700 credit. Laura Bell died in October 1981, after which the car went through a succession of relatives and owners until Andre Roy purchased it in July 2024.
BUICK BUGLE
Original cloth and vinyl upholstery.
The LeSabre has a 364 V8 and Dynaflow transmission.
The owner’s sign listing the car’s specifications. Remember, the miles per gallon ratings are with Imperial gallons (larger than U.S. gallons).
The LeSabre is one of 4,392 1959 LeSabre four-door sedans built and sold by GM of Canada that year. The paint is Snowcrest white, with a medium gray and white cloth and vinyl interior. It appears to be all original and unrestored (with possible exception of the wheels), and was displayed in the Archival class where it won an Archival award. ♦
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
On display in the Archival Class at the national meet.
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1973 CENTURION By Pete Phillips, BCA #7338, Bugle Editor Photos by Pete Phillips and All in the Details NY (Corey Ward)
Andrew Kollos is the owner of this unrestored 1973 Centurion. The car is absolutely immaculate—looks like it just came off of the showroom floor. He found it 17 years ago at the Carlisle, Pennsylvania flea market for old cars and parts. As he walked up the hill and saw the back of it, he thought “Gee, someone did a really nice job restoring that.” Then he walked around to the front of the car and saw the sign: “Selling Dad's car” and realized that it was a low-mileage, unrestored, original car that had been owned by an elderly person. At that time, it had only 17,000 miles on the odometer. Kollos, who lives on Long Island, drove it to the meet and says it hit 23,000 miles on the trip to Albany. The car has a long list of options and is equipped more like an Electra than a Centurion. It also has the “high performance” 455 V-8 option, which means dual exhausts, a four-barrel carburetor, and heavier duty cooling system. Among its other options are power windows, power door locks, power seat, airconditioning, tilt steering wheel, vinyl roof covering, 50
AM/FM radio, Max-trac (more about that shortly), lamp monitors, chrome wheels, cruise control, cornering lamps, remote control driver's mirror, and carpet-saver floor mats, electric trunk release, and rear window defogger, to name a few. Because of the car's unusual yellow and green color combination, the original owner was required to pay the car's purchase price up front, before the dealer would order the car. Apparently, the dealer was afraid he might get stuck with an unsellable car if the buyer changed his mind and did not want it after seeing it in person. Now about the Max-trac. It was introduced as an option on the 1971 Electras and appears to have been offered on some early 1970s Rivieras as well. 1973 was its final year, due to maintenance problems and emission control regulations. It is an early anti-spin system for the rear Above; Andrew Kollos and his low-mileage, unrestored, 1973 Centurion at the meet.
BUICK BUGLE
wheels. It is composed of a speed sensor on one of the front wheel hubs which gauges actual vehicle speed, and another one in the transmission which monitors rear wheel speed or spin. A miniature computer compares
front and rear wheel speed and if rear wheel spin is detected, it modulates or reduces engine ignition to provide controlled power to the rear wheels. ♦
Centurion emblem on the C-pillar. Notice the nice condition of the vinyl top.
Front grille with optional bumper guards. Notice how nice the rub strip is.
The driver's door panel shows no wear.
The rare Max-Trac option's switch is at the top of the dash.
The optional lamp monitor display on the top of the front fender.
Front cornering lamps, chrome wheels, and the 455 emblem.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
51
The green and pale yellow are an unusual color combination. The original owner had to pay the entire purchase price up front due to the colors.
The front seat and carpet show no wear at all.
The engine is as clean as the rest of the car. The 455 V-8 was optional on the 1973 Centurions with the 350 being standard that year.
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Here is the original window sticker. This car had more than $2,000 in optional extras, i.e., nearly 50% of the base sticker price!
BUICK BUGLE
2008 LACROSSE SUPER By Pete Phillips, BCA #7338, Bugle Editor
Buick made the LaCrosse Super in 2008 and 2009 only, so it is a rare, special edition car.
Production was 2,277 for 2008 and 139 for 2009, for a total of 2,416. The car is a factory hot-rod, with the 5.3 liter V-8, rated at 300 horsepower in a front-wheel-drive platform. It is one of the fastest, modern production Buicks ever built. The transmission, however, is its weak point, even though the Super has a heavier duty transmission than the regular LaCrosse models. According to carthrottle.com, this V8 puts out 323 ft.-lbs. of torque, but the transmission only handles 280 ft.-lbs. of Above; 2008 LaCrosse Super owned by Scott Caldiero.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
This car is a factory hot-rod with a 5.3-liter V-8 rated at 300 horsepower.
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Four portholes on the LaCrosse Super.
torque. Why would Buick do this? Perhaps they figured that the typical new Buick buyer would not be demanding maximum torque or maximum throttle very often. The LaCrosse Super, according to carthrottle.com, has a top speed of 150 miles per hour and a zero-to-sixty time of 5.7 seconds—wow! The Super has a curb weight of 3,770 pounds, so it is no lightweight. The Buick LaCrosse debuted in 2005 as a replacement for the mid-size Buick Century and Regal. It used the same chassis as the front-wheel-drive Chevrolet Impala of those years. Most of the LaCrosses came with a V-6 engine. The engines The car was driven to the meet from Tennessee and won a Gold award.
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BUICK BUGLE
Leather bucket seats, center console, and floor shift.
are all mounted transversely. The V-8 has an aluminum block and aluminum cylinder heads for weight savings. The transmission is a four-speed automatic. This particular car was driven to the meet by Scott Caldiero and his family from Tennessee. He says he likes everything about the car except the fuel mileage (it takes premium gas). The car received a Gold award in the 400-point judging. ♦
At right; You have to look carefully on the trunk lid to see the “Super” nameplate.
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
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the marketplace
HOW TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD ● BCA Member rates: One free ad per issue. Ads must be 30 words or less, not counting name, BCA #, address, phone number and email address. Each word over the allotment is $0.15 per word over 30. If a photo is placed in a free ad, the photo costs $35.00 per photo. All photos will be published in color. All display ads and classified ads must be pre-paid. ● Commercial/Non-member rates: These rates also apply to BCA members who are “in the business” of selling cars, parts or related items and services. The minimum charge per ad is $15.00 for 30 words or less. Additional words are $0.15 per word. Do not count your name, address, phone number or email address. ● Photos: $35.00 per issue for photos. All photos will be published in color. Rate applies to members and non-members, alike. Photos will not be returned. ● Deadlines: Ads must be received by the 24th of each month, two months prior to issue month. For example, the deadline is August 24, for the October issue. Late ads will appear the following month.
CARS FOR SALE
1929 Model 44 Roadster Convertible: Red and black, tan top, yellow wire spokes, side mounts, rumble seat, golf door, trunk, history since new. Months long bumper to bumper inspection and reconditioning by master mechanic, high degree of originality, fully functional and roadworthy, runs and drives well. $26,250. Tim Gibson, BCA #06425, 970690-3658, timwgibson66@ gmail.com, near Denver, Colorado. (11)
1947 Roadmaster Sedan: Professionally restored, runs and drives well. Many local awards as well as national. Rebuilt engine, Hampton Coach interior, updated rear axle from a 1953. Email for more pictures, detailed report, and Hemmings valuation. Asking $22,000. Jim Reynolds, BCA #31845, Fincastle, VA, jcreynolds014 @gmail.com, 540-580-2715 (11)
● Payment: Payment in full must accompany all ads (or sent in the mail, immediately after sending an email ad). We do not have a billing service. Make checks payable to BCA. Note to all advertisers: When you receive your magazine each month, PLEASE CHECK YOUR AD. Any correction or change must be immediately reported to the editor. Delay may cause the mistake to be repeated in future issues.
Ads run for one issue only, unless requested otherwise (and paid for, if it is a paid ad). We will run the same ad for up to 12 months, if requested. After 12 months, the ad needs to change, to avoid getting stale. Send ads, photos and report of corrections to: Pete Phillips, Bugle Editor PO Box 1247 ● Leonard, TX 75452 Tel: 903-436-2851 No texting ● Fax: 903-587-0907 pphillips922@gmail.com 56
1936 2-Passenger 3-Window Business Coupe: I assume is original. Drive train Straight-8 with 3-speed in floor. Good wood, needs restoration. Factory wheels with dog dish caps. In storage 30 years. WV title. Many photos. $8,000. BCA #44779, Tazewell, VA, 304-320-0943 (11) 1940 Roadmaster: 4-Door Convertible Model 71C, all or could part, $4,750. 1941 Buick Roadmaster 4-Door Sedan Model 71, excellent survivor, $14,750. 1941 Buick Super 2-Door Coupe Model 56s, good survivor, $8,750. Richard Mann, 805-689-5978, Richard@richardmann.com (11)
1949 Roadmaster Riviera: 2Door Hardtop, body #G244. 67,645 miles. 6-figure restoration, all receipts provided. Three owners since 1960's. Gorgeous car. $34,500. Dick Rowley, BCA #7660. Contact Orrie Simko, 860-782-1554, orrie.simko@ gmail.com (11,12,1) 1949 Roadmaster Convertible: Runs and drives but needs completely restored. New gas tank, fuel pump, brakes, master cylinder, rocker panels. Rear fenders have been patched. Car was used in a movie; has Cadillac seats so actors would sit up higher. Car
BUICK BUGLE
the marketplace
CARS FOR SALE was originally black with red interior. Clear title. Asking $15,000.00 or offer. Will help with delivery. Ben Garland, BCA #15386, 505-947-0355 (NM) (06/27) 1957 Century Convertible: Red/white, all power, all back to original condition with 5k miles $80,000. 1953 Canary yellow Super Convertible with p-disc brakes and steering. 5k miles, $45,000. Both strong #2s! Some parts for these too. Mark Schaefer, BCA #53816, Austin, MN, mtscentury@ gmail.com or 507-433-2821 (11)
1964 Skylark 2-Door Hardtop: 300 V8, factory 4speed, needs complete restoration or parts car. $2,500 OBO. Joe Plesz, BCA #28723, Windham, CT, 860456-3987 leave message, email: jmprmb@yahoo.com (10/27) 1965 Skylark Grand Sport: Runs and drives, transmission
seals drip. 401 engine, automatic, A/C, unrestored and completely stock, garaged. $17,500, consider offers. Jane, BCA #43378, Bend, Oregon, 206-999-5405, twohitches@gmail.com (11,1) 1965 Skylark Convertible: Model 44467. 300 V8 and 300 ST. 186 K miles, second owner since 1987. Originally silver mist but first owner freshened it up with light grey finish that has aged poorly. Original black top and interior. Has been parked in unheated garage since 2015. No rust. Decent chrome. Complete. Asking $8,000. Brandon Martin, BCA #19119, Petersburg VA, mobile 804-490-2391 (11,1)
1968 Skylark Custom Coupe: 350 V-8. Excellent working original drivetrain. P/ S. No rust. Basecoat/clearcoat. New upholstery/carpet. Dual chrome factory mirrors. Dual exhaust. Digital pics. Drive and show! $22,500. Jace Watson, BCA #35816, Mifflinburg, PA, 570-9669363, jdwatson@ dejazzd.com (12)
1969 Buick GS: Gorgeous car, fast and smooth. Adult owned and driven, #2 show condition. Original GS350, now badged GS400 Stage1, running1969 430 engine built with Stage1 components. Rebuilt TH400 with shift kit,
factory 12 bolt posi rear (Canadian car) with 3.73:1 GM gears. PS, PB, Tilt, Factory 8-trk player, FM Converter, power antenna and trunk release, original spare and floor mats. New Brakes, new stainless brake and fuel lines, new gas tank. New exhaust with Dynomax Ultra Turbo mufflers. New Firestone Radial Redline tires. Factory color Cameo Cream with Black Vinyl top. Beautiful black bucket seat interior, console with tach. Loads of receipts, ProtectoPlate. Drives and runs like new. $46,000, Ken, BCA #50851, 440-655-8731. (11)
BCA OFFICE MANAGERS To replace a lost or damaged Bugle: Cornerstone Registration, Ltd.
763-420-7829
IS YOUR INFORMATION UP-TO-DATE WITH THE BCA? Cornerstone Registration, Ltd. bca@cornerstonereg.com 763-420-7829 PO Box 1715 Maple Grove, MN 55311 Office Hours: M-F 9-5 (Central) Or log on to buickclub.org NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
57
the marketplace
CARS FOR SALE
1969 Electra: 2-Door Hardtop. Fairly rare car. Call for more info. $10,000. Clyde Goodall, BCA #38499, 941916-1742 (11)
1972 Buick GS Stage 1: Factory equipped with A/C and 4-speed. Complete mechanical rebuild of a good driver quality car. $42,000 obo. FOB Milwaukee, WI. Rob Hahn, BCA #50649, 414322-9754 afternoons are best, or rh9974782@gmail.com (11) 1985 Riviera: 2nd owner, 59,600 miles. Grey with blue interior. Sunroof and half landau top. Newer tires, bumper fillers, belts, battery, charged air conditioning and plugs. $12,000 obo. Alfred Linden, BCA #47686, 161 Bethesda Cir, Elyria, Ohio 44035, 440-453-4084, bigdaddyal5550@yahoo.com (11)
1989 Reatta: 49,547 original miles (6/26). White with red
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interior. VIN: 1G4EC11C9 KB904752, $12,000 OBO. Larry Lewis, BCA #52606, 6509 Pennstone Circle, Saline, MI 48176, 734-260-1088, LewisL@comcast.net (11)
one@Verizon.net, Voice/Text 508-320-5337 (11)
1992 Gran Sport: 2-Door, White/Gray. Has air and cruise. Won National 2024 Gold and AACA HP (original) in 2026. It is like having a 2year-old car that doesn’t depreciate. 26,000+ miles. $16,000. John, BCA #16107, johnecady@gmail.com, 716801-5414 text for pictures. (11)
Carburetors for 1904-1956 Buicks: 100’s in stock. New, used, and rebuilt. Vintage Carburetor, Ltd., 440-7868141, broadstreetltd@ msn.com, vintagecarb.com (02/27)
1936 Roadmaster grille: (I believe that all models used the same grille). This grille is in exceptional condition. There are no dents, cracks, bent or damaged bars, or evidence of any repair work. It is clean, straight, & ready to go to the chrome plater. $1,200.00 Tom Martindale, BCA #46831, 831-320-7076, 2joannm@comcast.net (11)
Running Board Mats: In the correct 1-piece molded patterns for 1930-1935 Series 50, 60, 80, 90. Northfield Ltd., 440-786-8141, broadstreet ltd@msn.com, northfield
Buick NOS: 1936-1940 (6070-80-90), 1941-1949 (All) water pump, NORS, $75. 1937-1940 (40-60 Sedans) right trunk hinge, 7 7/8” long, $50. 1939 Delco voltage
2005 Park Avenue Ultra: 59.4k miles. Second owner. Immaculate, collectible quality in Diamond Pearl White. A stunning, toptier example for the buyer seeking one of the best. David Waage, BCA #54155, Crosslake, MN, 320-4938112, waage21@outlook.com (11)
PARTS FOR SALE
ltd.com (02/27)
CARS WANTED 1965 Skylark GS: I am looking for a 1965 Skylark GS, 401 with 4-speed. Mike Fedran, 9701 W Waterford Ave, Greenfield, WI 53228, 414-545-9197, jcarlson5@ wi.rr.com (09/27)
1975 LeSabre Custom: Hope to find this 1975 LeSabre Custom or a close twin. Dove gray, white top & interior, blue dash, carpets, door panels, 455 V8. Last known location was Wilmington Ford, in MA about 1979 or 1980. State location & price in first contact. Pete Mozzone, BCA #54503, Peter.Mozz
BCA OFFICE MANAGERS
To replace a lost or damaged Bugle:
Cornerstone Registration, Ltd. Tel: 763-420-7829
BUICK BUGLE
the marketplace regulator in sealed box, $90.
PARTS FOR SALE
1940 (40-50-60-70) rear shock absorber links, $30 pair. 19411942 (40B-60-90) left & right wiper transmissions, $175 pair. 1953 Super master cylinder, for standard transmissions car only, $90. 1953-1955 (50-60), 19561963 (322, 364 engines) clutch disc, 11”, $80. 19541956 starter solenoid, GM, rebuilt, $30. 1954-1955 (5070) dashboard upper panel, $75. 1956 Roadmaster trunk handles, $150 pair. 1957-1960 (all with inner or outer lock rings) rear U-Joint repair kit, NOS, specify, $30 each. 1958 (All with AC) water pump, GM, rebuilt, $75. All NOS, except as noted. Add for shipping & handling. Have parts 1928 – 1979. Send SASE, year, model, for list. Bob Graves, BCA #942, 21 Ferry Rd., Salisbury, Mass. 01952, 978-463-0715 evenings. (11) Dashboards: 1940-41 Buick engine turned dashboards and door panels. Finished like new. Some stock for faster delivery. Our specialty for 25 years. Call or write for details. Doug Seybold, BCA #3983, 2761 Clark Parkway, Westlake, OH 44145. 440835-1193 (12) 1940-1941 Buick Parts & Restoration Services Specials. Supers, Centurys, Limiteds, Roadmasters: parting out, and new steering wheels, gauges, plastics, dashboards, rocker moldings, engines transmissions, sheet metal, more. We do it all. Call or write for details. Doug Seybold BCA #3983, 2761 Clark Parkway, Westlake, OH 44145, 440-835-1193 (12) 1941 Buick: Have just about anything, or can find it for you 1941 Buick wise. Comes after 50 years of owning, selling,
buying and trading 1941 Buick parts and cars. Try me! The 1941 Buick Nut, Richard Mann, 805-689-5978, Richard@richardmann.com (11) 1947 Roadmaster 76C Convertible Parting Out: Rebuilt 320 engine, dash, lifter & valve covers, belt molding, regulators, gas tank, air cleaner, rocker assembly, glovebox door, fender and skirt (1942), hood emblem (1948). Extensive list & photos available. Ed Lorence, BCA #50554, Cleveland, Ohio, 440-655-9824, lorenced1@icloud.com (02/27)
1972 Centurion: Bumpers and brackets. Sold my Centurion and will give away parts in fair condition that could be straightened and replated. Otherwise, they go to scrap. Pigeon Forge, TN area. Doug, BCA #48448, srtjader@yahoo.com (11,1) 1990 LeSabre: Electric mirror, left side, new, never installed. Has factory primer.
$360. Hank Audette, BCA #50595, 860-234-4539 (CT) (04/27)
PARTS WANTED 1934 60 Series: Seeking .010 oversize rings for 278 CI engine. Jack Huffman, BCA #45749, 2405 Knox Highway 15, Victoria, IL 61485, 309368-4283 (11,12,1,2)
Dash Dy-Noc replacement for 1953 Skylark and Roadmaster: Silver, gray, and white. $160 plus $10 shipping. Denny Robish, BCA #43156, 1015 Janet Avenue NW, North Canton, Ohio 44720, 330-697-6202 (12) 1965 Riviera Parts: NOS: Set of 4-wheel opening moldings, $800/set. USED: Black wood door panels, more. Four ads: Craigslist>LosAngeles>Auto Parts. Trent. BCA #19794, 310-378-6826, sportwagon@juno.com (04/27) Wheel Center Caps: For most Buick, Riviera, Wildcat, and Skylark models. Mitch Romanowski, BCA #33886, 847-705-5761, https:// wheelcenters.weebly.com (12)
1971 Skylark Parts: Front bumper, $400. Rear bumper, $400. NORS grille, $500. 2 pairs headlight bezels, $75 each. 1971 hood trim, $100. 1972 hood trim, $50. 1932 headlight, taillight, fender lights, stanchion. 1933 fender, taillights. Chuck Straub, BCA #2022, Wausau, WI, Straub31@charter.net, 715581-8631 (11)
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
STATIC CLING DECALS Applies to inside of window (re-usuable)
3” diameter Red, white & blue $5.00 each
To US addresses, postpaid Central New England Chapter c/o Jim Ramsey, BCA #39895 3 Campbell Drive, Easthampton, MA 01027 59
the marketplace
PARTS WANTED 1941 Special Sedanet: Need left and right lower trim for fender skirts. Ed Bankowski, BCA #49945, 610-390-1494, edwardbankowski6@gmail.co m (11) 1962 Special: Seeking an intact 198 V-6 engine block (or complete engine). Bill Pope, BCA #53031, bpope65@gmail.com, 913202-2205 (11,12,1,2) 1965 LeSabre Custom Coupe: Need driver's side rear armrest with ashtray and air cleaner housing for 300 V8. Brian Girasoli, BCA #53153, Old Lyme, CT 06371, 860-608-2405, gsoli76@gmailcom (12) 1972 Electra 4-Door: Seeking green tinted DeflectaShield bug shield, green right front kick panel with wastebasket, NOS window sweeps, GM power trunk release kit, rearview mirror. Mike Wiece, BCA #54131, 330-524-4016, m_cwiece@ hotmail.com (07/27)
1996 Roadmaster: Needing front bumper chrome trim for the passenger side corner.
60
Seeking both the upper thin chrome molding trim and the main lower wide chrome molding trim. Also need the lower chrome body side molding for the rear passenger door. Any leads are much appreciated. Gery Conover, BCA #45691, 508-627-4751, info@thecharlotteinn.com (11)
#22400, dgtryon2516@ gmail.com, 919-441-1271 (NC) (07/27) 1966 Buick Service Manual: All Series. Near pristine condition. 2.5 inches thick. Also, 1966 Fisher Body Service Manual, same
condition, 1 inch thick. $100 plus shipping buys both. 1953, 1955, 1956, 1981 Buick Shop manuals. Covers are rough but all are complete, $30 each plus shipping. I have over 30 Motors Auto Repair Manuals from 1930s to 1990s. Ask me what year you want, $25 each
PRINT MEDIA FOR SALE 1969 Buick Manuals: I have 1969 Buick manuals for free if someone pays the shipping: 1969 Buick Chassis Service Manual - All Series and 1969 Fisher Body Service Manual. Jeff Willett, sdjeffwillett@ gmail.com, 605 584-8722 (11,12,1) I Have the Following Manuals for Sale: 1953 Auto Radio Service Manual v2. 1928-1954 Buick Master Body Parts Book.1940-1967 Buick Master Body Parts Book. 1949 Howard Sam’s Auto Radio Manual. $20 each plus shipping. I have a lot more manuals from 19481960 & small parts for 1949 Roadmaster. My sister says sell, so I am. William Dodson, BCA #14958, 128 Irving Road, Lavergne, TN 37086, 615-417-1812, duckfeetkid@ tds.net (11) “New - Beyond Fundamental Carburetion Book”. This sequel describes the evolution of fuel and engine controls driven by emission laws, moving from the 1960s mechanical systems to the 1970s computerized engine controls management. Key topics include the shift from carburetors to fuel injection, open loop to closed loop catalytic converters, evaporative loss controls, and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR). See Fundamental Carburetion.com for more details and ordering options. $18. Dean Tryon, BCA
(508) 509-5471
BUICK BUGLE
the marketplace
PRINT MEDIA FOR SALE plus shipping. Paul Girard, BCA #41392, 4 Bridge View Lane, Buzzards Bay, MA 02532, 508-615-0000, pirate3200@aol.com (12)
PRINT MEDIA WANTED 1961: (but also interested in all other years) Buick dealership merchandise announcements. Eric Stoldt, mr61buick@aol.com, 516-8058078 (11,12,1,2)
MEMORABILIA FOR SALE 1985 Buick LeSabre Collector's Edition Leatherette Folder: Includes key pouch, 4 keys, hardbound book "A Commemorative History of GM and Buick", color 4 page brochure of 1985 Collector's edition model, frameable 8x12 color pics of LeSabre from 1959 -1985. $25.95 postage paid. Pat Riley, BCA #01385, 817-219-1266, buickpat@gmail.com (04/27) Buick “Curbside Chats:” Sent monthly to dealers on activities, strategies, and products. 57 VHA tapes from July 1987 to September 1991. Few missing. 25-40 minutes. Pictures on request. $15 each OBO postpaid. Pat Rley, BCA #01385, 817-219-1266, buickpat@gmail.com (03/27)
Please check the time zone before placing your call to an advertiser!
ADVERTISER
INDEX
Best Offer Counts, LLC. …………… 7 Bob’s Automobila …………………... 6
Buick at Gilmore…………………….. 62 Cars, Inc. ……………………………. 61 Classic Radiator …………………….. 5 Dickster’s SmarT Pants ..…………... 7 Fusick Automotive ………………….. 5 Harnesses Unlimited ………………... 11 Keleen Leathers …………………….. 4 Olson’s Gaskets …………..…………. 11 Riviera Owner’s Association ………. 57 Waldron’s Exhaust …………………. 7 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2026
61
62
BUICK BUGLE
chapters ALABAMA BAMA BUICK (SE) John Cover (Birmingham, AL) 205-991-7106; jecengr@yahoo.com CALIFORNIA BUICK CLUB OF THE REDWOODS (GW) Bobby Olivieri (Santa Rosa, CA) 707-819-6449; highlytrained@ gmail.com; buickclubofthe redwoods.com CALIFORNIA CAPITOL (GW) Michael Frerichs (Elk Grove, CA) 916-842-7396 LOS ANGELES (GW) Steve Rostam (Woodland Hills, CA) 818-999-6626 NORTHERN CALIFORNIA (GW) Rick Deutsch (San Jose, CA) 408-8 88-4752; ricky.deutsch@ gmail.com; BuicksNorCal.com ORANGE COUNTY (GW) Jeff Shugarman (Tustin, CA) 714-323-4097; shugar410@gmail.com orangecounty.buickclub.org
COLORADO MILE HIGH (FC) Glenn Manes (Wheat Ridge, CO) 720-630-9181; gmanes@comcast.net milehighbuickclub.com ROCKY MOUNTAIN (FC) Mike Bacon (Lafayette, CO) 303-501-3671; mk50bacon@ gmail.com; rockymountain.buick club.org CONNECTICUT YANKEE (NE) Jim Comeau (East Hartford, CT) 203-537-2408; buickyank@ sbcglobal.net; yankeechapterbca.org DELAWARE DELMARVA (MA) Phillip Taylor (Laurel, DE) 302-875-0840; taylorhouse87@ aol.com
INDIANA CENTRAL INDIANA (GL) Jeff Shively (Kokomo, IN) 765-721-1659; cad19651941@ yahoo.com; cinbca.com
GATEWAY PERFORMANCE (HL) Larry Longworth (Arnold, MO) 314-960-7230; larryslake@ sbcglobal.net
OREGON PORTLAND AREA (NW) Tom Reser (Vancouver, WA) 360-901-9828; resertom1953@ gmail.com, portland.buickclub.org
IOWA HAWKEYE (HL) Bill Gorman (Huxley, IA) 515-290-6565; bbgorman35@ gmail.com
MID-AMERICA (HL) Ricky Pirch (Holden, MO) 816-565-3193; rgpirch77gmail.com midamericabuicks.com
PENNSYLVANIA APPALACHIAN (GL) Ronald Givler (Altoona, PA) 814-329-3533;givlerronald@ gmail.com
KANSAS WHEATLAND (HL) Tom Sparkman (Wichita, KS) 214-649-7519; sparkmanttx@ gmail.com KANSAS/MISSOURI MID-AMERICA (HL) Ricky Pirch (Holden, MO) 816-565-3193; rgpirch77@gmail.com midamericabuicks.com MARYLAND B.O.O.M. (MA) Craig Bober (Owings Mills, MD) 443-904-4200; craig4buicks@ gmail.comnet
METRO (MA) Tom McQueen (Mclean, VA) 703-863-2393; mcqueenre@aol.com MASSACHUSETTS CENTRAL NEW ENGLAND (NE) Jim Ramsey (Easthampton, MA) 413-527-7761; jimmramsey@ hotmail.com MINUTEMAN (NE) Steve Parent (North Smithfield, RI) 401-524-8059; stevwildcat65@ aol.com; minuteman.buickclub.org MICHIGAN BUICKTOWN (GL) Dan Graves (Flushing, MI) 810-730-0645; buicktown@gmail.com buicktown.buickclub.org CENTRAL MICHIGAN (GL) Paul Haist (Bellevue, MI) mymerec@att.net
FLORIDA GULF COAST (SE) Lee Amand (Pt Charlotte, FL) 717-673-7060; lamand@comcast.net
SOUTHEAST MICHIGAN (GL) Michael Burgess (Rochester Hill, MI) 810-845-5719; turboburge@aol.com
MINNESOTA FIREBALL (HL) fireballchapterbca.com
GEORGIA DIXIE (SE) JD Westfall (Blue Ridge, GA) 913-638-7849; pharmboyjd@ gmail.com; dixie.buickclub.org ILLINOIS CHICAGOLAND (HL) Melanie Mauser (Downers Grove, IL) 630-640-8563; melsbuick455@ gmail.com; chicagolandbca.org CHIWAUKEE BORDER (HL) Gilbert Volling (Lake Villa, IL) 847-727-0156; rivierafan@comcast.net
GOPHER STATE (HL) Daniel Dienst (Faribault, MN) 651-336-0798; director@gopher statebuick.org; gopherstatebuick.org MISSOURI ST. LOUIS GATEWAY (HL) Chet Palumbo (Defiance, MO) 636-443-5686; chetpalumbo1947@ gmail.com, stlouisbuickclub.net
NEBRASKA CROSSROADS (HL) Tom Hornig (Omaha, NE) 402-397-8437; tbnnbh@cox.net NEW JERSEY NEW JERSEY (NE) George Newberry (Wall Twp., NJ) 732-687-3691; directorNJCBCA@ gmail.com, buickclubofnewjersey.com
DELAWARE VALLEY (PA) Dan Giannini (Glenside, PA) 215-208-8623; gianninid@comcast.net FREE SPIRIT (NE) Sally Getz (Lehighton, PA) 610-377-6130; csgetz@ptd.net buickfreespirit.org
NEW MEXICO ROADRUNNER BUICKS (FC) David Bothamly (Abiquiu, NM) 505-423-0551; new2metto@ gmail.com
MASON-DIXON (MA) Lawrence DiBarry (Chambersburg, PA) 717-263-3804; dibarjo@hotmail.com; masondixon.buickclub.org
NEW YORK FINGER LAKES (GL) Michael Hryhorenko (Rochester, NY) 585-233-4697; saabmonkey1@aol.com
TENNESSEE MUSIC CITY (SE) Ron Franks (Franklin, TN) 615-347-0898; rfranks17@gmail.com musiccity.buickclub.org
LONG ISLAND (NE) Martin R. Jablonski (Seaford, NY) 516-781-4275; mrjbuick@ optonline.net; libuickclub.org
TEXAS ALAMO (SC) Jerry Courson (Cedar Park, TX) 210-601-1780; jerrylcourson@ gmail.com, alamo.buickclub.org
LOWER HUDSON VALLEY (NE) Paul Cialone (Danbury, CT) 203-240-7247; pcialone@comcast.net NIAGARA FRONTIER (GL) Chuck Wolski (Depew, NY) 716-683-0593; cwolski@aol.com UPSTATE NY CHAPTER (NE) John DeFiore (Scotia, NY) 518-466-1370; defiorejohn@ gmail.com; unybca.com NORTH CAROLINA TARHEEL (SE) Marck Barker (Durham, NC) 919-233-1973; 89reatta@gmail.com tarheelbuick.org OHIO AKRON–CANTON (GL) Denny Robish (North Canton, OH) 330-497-4201; DennyR@neo.rr.com CENTRAL OHIO (GL) Tom Kromer (Dublin, OH) 614-619-4952; trkromer@gmail.com GLASS CITY (GL) Dave Rex (Perrysburg, OH) 419-873-7025; darex@sbcglobal.net NORTH EAST OHIO (GL) Charles Piccola (Chippewa Lake, OH) 440-554-2329; neobcaohio@ gmail.com; neobca.org
LONE STAR (SC) lonestar.buickclub.org NORTH TEXAS (SC) Willis Bell (Weatherford, TX) 817-694-1313; ntx5467@cs.com northtexas.buickclub.org VIRGINIA VIRGINIA (MA) Violet Waller (Chesapeake, VA) 757-705-4091 METRO (MA) Tom McQueen (Mclean, VA) 703-863-2393; mcqueenre@aol.com WASHINGTON INLAND NORTHWEST (NW) Bryon Kanenwischer (Spokane, WA) 509-218-9728; bryon.kanenwischer@danfoss.com InlandNorthwestBuick@gmail.com PORTLAND AREA CHAPTER Tom Reser (Vancouver, WA) 360-901-9828; resertom1953@gmail.com PUGET SOUND (NW) Rick Watkins (Federal Way, WA) 253-219-8348; econog@aol.com WISCONSIN ROCK VALLEY (HL) Fred MacDonald (Sun Prairie, WI) 608-834-8275; fredanddebra@gmail.com
TO UPDATE YOUR CHAPTER, REGION & DIVISION LISTINGS CONTACT:
Anne Gibson, agibson36@gmail.com, 336-599-9589 (H), 336-592-5312 (C)
BUICK CLUB OF AMERICA PO BOX 1715, MAPLE GROVE, MN 55311-6715 November/December 2026, Vol. 61, No. 6 Monthly Publication Time-Dated Material Periodicals Postage Paid at Columbus, Ohio and Additional Mailing Offices
Inside this issue: Call for BOD Candidates BCA BUSINESS Membership Ambassador Program BCA BUSINESS Standard Operating Procedure No. 13 Family Reunion at the 2026 National Meet Kirbitz Presented BHA Award for 2026 FEATURE ARTICLE 2026 BCA National Meet 2026 Class Awards My Time with a 1921 Buick Model 44 Custom-Made Buick Racer 1941 Buick Estate Wagon 1949 Super Sedanet A Very Early 1955 Special 1959 Canadian LeSabre 1973 Centurion 2008 LaCrosse Super
technical advisors 1904-1907 2 CYLINDER: Kevin Johnson (CA), kevin@thesp2specialists.com, evenings, 818-719-0216, 818-719-9070 (fax)
1946-1949 ALL: Michael Stemen (FL), drivebuicks@gmail.com 10am to 5pm or 7pm to 11pm EDT or EST, 352-431-8443
1923 6-CYL ALL: Louis Ironside (MI), 810-798-8803 LouisIronside@aol.com
1950-1954 ALL: Jeff Schindler (WA), 509-389-9400 between 2pm to10pm PT schindler195376r@gmail.com
1930-1950 ALL: Drive trains, Susp., Brakes, Trans. Jim Burgess (MI), Evenings ET, 810-736-6580, 5062 N. Center Rd, Flint MI 48506
1953 SKYLARKS: Steve Rostam (CA), 818-999-662, steveclassic@earthlink.net
1932 ALL: Willis Jenkins Jr. (MD), t3wj@comcast.net, 9pm to 11:30pm. ET, 301-249-0496
1954-1955 ALL: Ken Laytin (MA), 508-747-1966 (evenings) roadmaster54@ behaviordoc.com
1933 –1935 ALL: Paul Rickman (MI), 231-357-3009 buickregistry@aol.com
1955 ALL: Steve Rostam (CA), 818-999-662, steveclassic@earthlink.net
1936 & 1937 ALL: Charles Arnold (DE), cbarnold38@gmail.com, 9am to 5pm EST, 302-234-4145
1958 ALL: Wayne Meadlin (TX), 7am to 8pm CT, 817-737-0002, 5200 Camp Bowie, Fort Worth, TX 76107
1938 ALL: Derol Briscoe (CA), 520-204-2362, derol.f.briscoe@gmail.com 1938 46C CONVERT, CPE.: Wayne Yonce (CA), days/ evenings 760-728-3864, 3020 Red Mountain Heights Dr., Fallbrook, CA 92028 1939 40-60 SERIES: Leif Barem (WA), 360-422-6025, jlbarem1979@hotmail.com, 17193 W. Big Lake Blvd., Mt. Vernon, WA 98274
1939 MOD 80-90 ALL: Tom Colbert (NY), tomc@inteprop.com, evenings before 9pm ET, 607-257-4498, 120 White Park Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850 1940-1941 ALL: Doug Seybold (OH), 440-835-1193 or 440-835-1522, 2761 Clark Pkwy., Westlake, OH 44145 1941 ALL: William Anderson (MD), Rivsrgr8@aol.com, 443-994-5455 1942 ALL: Bob Miles (PA), 716-628-5123
1960 ALL: Tom Crystal (MT), 406-451-8609, 415 N 20th Ave., Bozeman, MT 59718 1960-1995 ENGINES, 1966 RIVIERA, ALL: Dennis Manner (MI), 810-735-7974, 11503 S. Linden Rd., Linden, MI 48451 1961 ALL FULL SIZE: Eric Stoldt (NY), 516-797-9408 mr61buick@aol.com 1962 WILDCAT ALL: Wayne Yonce (CA), days/ evenings PT, 760-728-3864, 3020 Red Mountain Heights Dr., Fallbrook, CA 92028 1963-1965 RIVIERA: Thomas Mooney (IL), 630-502 -9939 CT 9am - 9pm, mooney.thomas@sbcglobal.net 1964-1972 SPORT WAGONS ALL: Trent Plungas (CA), sport-wagon@juno.com, 1964-1967 SKYLARK INCLUDING GS: John Roberts (TX), 512-558-2225 roostergs@gmail.com,
Please include your BCA number when contacting any Tech Advisor. Keep in mind that those listed here are volunteering their time. Please show them the courtesy of contacting them as they have listed. If you contact them by mail, send a selfaddressed stamped return envelope. The state where the Tech Advisor lives is listed after their name. If you contact the advisor by phone, remember the time zone differences. Please be very specific in your request. Tech Advisors are not expected to find parts for you. A good guide for information is the BCA Judging Manual, available through the BCA Office. NOTE: The BCA is not responsible for the information provided by Advisors, nor a guarantor that the information is correct. Advisor information is based on factory literature, but it is your responsibility to insure anything used in restoring your car is backed by factory literature. You must have proper factory documentation should questions arise during judging.
To serve as a Technical Advisor, please contact Jimmy Shiels (Franklin, MA), 508-509-5471 or email jimmyshiels66@gmail.com
1965-1970 “B” BODY: Amos Slater (FL) amos@charlottervservice.com 1966 GRAN SPORT & SKYLARK: James Shiels Jr. (MA), Jimmyshiels66@gmail.com 508-509-5471 1967-1972 "A" BODY GS & SKYLARK: Derol Briscoe (CA), 520-204 2362 derol.f.briscoe@gmail.com, 1453 Ousley Dr., Gilroy, CA 95020
1968 ELECTRA CONV. ALL: Wayne Yonce (CA), days/evenings PT, 760-7283864, 3020 Red Mountain Heights Dr., Fallbrook, CA 92028 1968-1969 “A” BODY SKYLARKS ALL: Dan Donahue (WI), evenings, 414321-5466, dandonahue262@gmail.com 1970 ELECTRA/WILDCAT: John Williams (IL), jjwilliams@consolidated.net, 217-254-7672 1971-1973 RIVIERA ALL: William Anderson (MD), Rivsrgr8@aol.com, 443-9945455, 410-271-1746 (fax) 1971-1976 LESABRE/ CENTURION/ELECTRA: Dan Loftis (NC), dloftis0102@gmail.com, 336-200-3738 1974-76 RIVIERA: Kevin Kauppi (WI), 224-623-1297, kevinkauppi13@aol.com
1977-1978 RIVIERA ALL: William Anderson (MD), Rivsrgr8@aol.com, 443-9945455, 410-271-1746 (fax) 1982-1987 TURBO REGAL ALL: Ron Joseph (NJ), GNX342@aol.com, 908-2530122 or 908-337-5144, 908526-3426 (fax) 1980-1985 SKYLARK: Scott Sigethy (NC) sds81@yahoo.com, 6pm to10 pm , 201-693-0607 1983-1996 CENTURY FWD ALL: Trent Plungas (CA), sport-wagon@juno.com 1985-1991 SKYLARKSOMERSET: Michael Rogers (DE),michael.rogers@hvccde.c om, 302-542-1233 1988-1991 Reatta All: Barney Eaton (TX), (call first), 8am to 9pm CST, 512-635-5132, barneyeaton1@gmail.com 1988-2004 Regal, LaCrosse & Lucern Mike Hilbert (WI) mhilbert59@gmail.com 1991-1996 Roadmaster, All: Bernie Daily (NY), Bernie@berniedaily.com, 585-637-6348 evenings BUICK MEMORABILIA & TRINKETS: James Shiels Jr. (MA), Jimmyshiels66@gmail.com 508-509-5471 NOTICE TO TECH ADVISORS: Please note that we have updated the list to reflect only two ways to contact an advisor. This allows larger text. Please check your contact information and let Jimmy Shiels know if you need a correction or change.
divisions/regions OTHER BUICK CLUBS & PUBLICATIONS EARLY BUICK & McLAUGHLIN BUICK OWNERS NEWSLETTER GROUP Dean Tryon Wake Forest, NC 27587 919-562-4660
BCA DIVISIONS 1936-37-38 BUICK CLUB Ralph Artall (Melville, LA) 337-592-0044 ralph@artallfarms.com 3638buickclub.org PRE-WAR DIVISION Brian Heil (Fenton, MI), 810-869-1543 bthlodger@aol.com REATTA DIVISION Scott Caldiero (Kodak, TN) 865-236-7258 3800trishield@gmail.com reatta.org
BUICK DRIVING ENTHUSIASTS Dan Christensen (Chariton, IA), 641-203-4268 dctrooper268@yahoo.com bde.buickclub.org 1953-1954 BUICK SKYLARK CLUB Vin De Peppo (Lafayette, NJ), 973-271-0977 jovin2@embarqmail.com www.skylarkclub.org MODIFIED DIVISION Bob Starzyk (Palos Heights, IL) 708-334-4848; 56buick@att.net
BCA REGIONS CHAPTER, REGION & DIVISION COORDINATOR Anne Gibson 336-599-9589 (H), 336-592-5312 (C) agibson36@gmail.com GOLDEN WEST REGION (GW) Tony Albin (Lakewood, CA), 909-545-5054 tony@apcbearings.com GREAT LAKES REGION (GL) Chip Aeppli (Tallmadge, OH), 330-842-1215, cwaeppli@gmail.com MID-ATLANTIC REGION (MA) Bill Anderson (Gambrills, MD), 410-8493376, rivsrgr8@aol.com
SOUTHEAST REGION (SE) Bruce Kile (Marietta, GA) 770-977-7924, sbkile58@aol.com NORTHEAST REGION Martin Jablonski (Seaford, NY) 516-781-4375, mrjbuick@optonline.net PACIFIC NORTHWEST REGION (NW) Jack Gerstkemper (Brush Prairie WA) 360-256-8209, bgerst7@aol.com SOUTH CENTRAL REGION (SC) Willis Bell (Weatherford, TX) 817-694-1313, ntx5467@cs.com HEARTLAND REGION (HL) Len Woelfel (Oswego, IL) 630-675-3640, Len.woelfel@gmail.com
dgtryon2516@gmail.com
1927 BUICK CLUB (web based) Groups.io/g/1927Buicks 1929 SILVER ANNIVERSARY BUICK W. E. (Bill) McLaughlin Toronto, Ontario bill@29buick.ca 29buick.ca 1930 MARQUETTE REGISTRY Mike Balou (Champaign, IL) 217-355-1704 mbalogh@balogh.com 1937-1938 BUICK CLUB (web based) Groups.io/g/1937and 1938Buicks RIVIERA OWNERS ASSOCIATION 303-233-2987 (Denver, CO) rivowners.org BUICK CAR CLUB OF AUSTRALIA, INC. (Victoria) Dennis Healy 185 Duncans Lane Diggers Rest Victoria, 3427, Australia estden@bigpond.com buickcarclub.org.au
BUICK CLUB OF AUSTRALIA, INC. (Queensland) PO Box 113, Cleveland 4163, Queensland, 6173829-2222; brianlindhall @optusnet.com.au BUICK CLUB OF AUSTRALIA IN NEW SOUTH WALES, INC. Peter Allen, Secretary Merrylands N.S.W. 2160 Australia buickcarclub.org.au BUICK CLUB OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA Bev Nicholson, Secretary Wanneroo, Western Australia, 6065 westernbuicks.org DUTCH BUICK CLUB Gerard den Besten Peperdonk 15 Spijkenisse, Netherlands 3206 CB; 0031 181645013 BUICK CLUB OF GERMANY 41189 Moenchengladbach Germany info@buickclub.de BUICK CLUB OF NORWAY Even Colban Postboks 6565 Etterstad 0606 Oslo, Norway evenchr@online.no BUICK CLUB OF SOUTH AFRICA Chris Palk Rant en Dal Gauteng
1751, South Africa +27 11 660 1322 (ph) buickclubsa.co.za BUICK CLUB OF SWITZERLAND Joachim Braun Frenkenstrasse 29 4434 Holstein, Switzerland Kontakt@buickclub.ch
NEW ZEALAND BUICK REGISTRY PO Box 11240 Christchurch, NZ 8443 nzbuick@yahoo.co.nz BUICK ROD & CUSTOM ASSOCIATION Russell Miller 8712 Columbus Rd. Fowler, IL 62338 217-434-8009 thebrca@yahoo.com GRAN SPORT CLUB OF AMERICA Paul Ferry; PO Box 67, Atwater, OH 44201, 330-422-9633 (9:00am-1:00pm) BuickGSCA.org GS NATIONALS RACE & SHOW Richard Lasseter 625 Pine Point Circle Valdosta, GA 31602 229-244-0577 gsnationals.com BUICK PERFORMANCE GROUP 1150 W. Fifth St., Marysville, OH 43040
BCA NATIONAL OFFICE INFORMATION All National Buick Club of America correspondence is to be sent to the following address: Buick Club of America; c/o Cornerstone Registration, Ltd. PO Box 1715 • Maple Grove, MN 55311-6715 Tel: 763-420-7829 • Fax: 763-420-7849 • E-mail: bca@cornerstonereg.com Office Hours: M-F 9:00-5:00 (Central) The National Office is to be contacted for the following: • New Membership • Renewal of Membership For electronic membership • Membership renewal date application, go to www.buickclub.org • Membership payment and select the Secure Membership link. • Change of address It will take you to a form where you • Change any other information can enter your personal information • Missing or destroyed Buick Bugle and credit card number in a fast, easy • Local chapter information and secure way.