your one stop
At Cliff Avenue, there are no shortcuts, only craftsmanship. With decades of experience, we’re known for precision restorations, from original bolts
Doing Business for Over 20 Years years combined experience
ADDITIONAL CONTRIBUTORS
MORE THAN A CAR WASH
Inside the Obsessive Craft of OCD Detailing
By Joseph Cottle | Photography by O’Riley Custom Detailing
It starts with trust. When someone hands Ryan O’Riley the keys to a $150,000 vehicle, a GT500, a classic muscle car, something they’ve poured money and pride into, they’re not just hiring a detailer. They’re betting on him.
Ryan takes that seriously.
O’Riley Custom Detailing has been operating since 2019, built from the ground up in a way that only happens when someone is genuinely good at what they do.
Ryan didn’t launch with a marketing campaign. He began because people started knocking on his door. Word spread,
the calls kept coming, and what had started as something he did on the side turned into a full-time business in Arlington, South Dakota. Four years ago, he relocated and opened a brick-and-mortar shop, where he’s since built a loyal following in the classic and muscle-car world, people who know the difference between someone who washes cars and someone who actually cares about them.
He’s mostly a one-man operation. His brother steps in occasionally to help polish and ceramic coat, but the work is Ryan’s; his eye, his hands, his standards. That’s deliberate. At this level of detailing, consistency matters more than speed.
When asked what motivates him, Ryan shares, “Making people happy. There’s no end-of-day satisfaction when you’re doing it for somebody else. But to have somebody trust you with their GT500 or their really nice car and trust you to make it better, that’s a pretty cool thing.”
It’s a calling he came to honestly. His mom made car washing a ritual when he was a kid. Ryan still remembers the chamois rollers, the routine, the small sense of pride in a clean car. His uncle ran a detailing business in Huron, South Dakota, and that influence stuck. By the time Ryan started taking on customers, he wasn’t learning a trade. He was continuing one. The obsession had always been there. Formalizing it into a business just made it official.
Detailing is different. Every car is a project, and every project ends with a customer standing there seeing something restored, or protected, in a way it wasn’t before. For Ryan, that moment never gets old.
An orange Shelby GT500 is the kind of job that tells the whole story.
The customer had purchased the car roughly a year prior. It came with a haze, an old ceramic coating that had been applied improperly and left the paint looking dull and muddled beneath the surface. To anyone who knows what a GT500 should look like rolling into the sun, it was painful to see. The customer knew something was wrong. He just didn’t know how wrong until Ryan got his hands on it.
Ryan did a full paint correction first. That means polishing out every imperfection, cutting through the haze, addressing paint defects, getting the surface back to its true condition before anything else is applied. It’s exacting work, and it has to be done right before a coating goes on. There are no shortcuts in this sequence.
“I was pretty bummed out,” Ryan recalls. “A vehicle like that should have been taken care of the right way.”
He gave the customer a good deal because he simply felt bad that they’d gotten such bad service before. That’s also part of how Ryan operates. When someone’s been let down before they even walk through his door, he tries to make it right.
Once the paint correction was complete, Ryan applied System X, a professional-grade ceramic coating rated for the lifetime of the vehicle. The result is what you see: deep, mirrorlike orange that pulls every photon of light and holds it. The kind of finish that makes people slow down when they walk past in a parking lot.
For anyone considering ceramic coating, Ryan puts it plainly: the only real downside is cost. Everything else is upside.
A ceramic coating bonds to the vehicle’s clear coat and creates a significantly harder, more durable surface than the factory finish alone. Ryan uses System X specifically because of its longevity and performance. It provides a super slick, highgloss layer that isn’t just about looks. The chemistry matters. The coating resists environmental contaminants, repels water through a hydrophobic effect that causes it to bead and sheet off the surface, and dramatically reduces how much bugs, tar, and road grime can stick to the paint in the first place.
“Your clear coat is the hardest it’s ever been,” he tells his customers. “It’s going to be easier to wash than ever.”
That reassurance matters because a lot of people treat a freshly coated car like it’s fragile. Ryan wants them to understand it’s the opposite. The coating is there precisely so they don’t have to be as careful.
Every car is a project, and every project ends with a customer standing there seeing something restored, or protected, in a way it wasn’t before.
That said, maintenance still matters, and the way you wash a ceramic-coated vehicle makes a real difference over time. Ryan’s hierarchy is simple. Hand washing is the gold standard: a two-bucket method with quality soap, a good microfiber wash mitt, and no cross-contamination. It’s gentle, it’s controlled, and it preserves the coating longer than anything else. If hand washing every week isn’t realistic, a touchless automatic wash is a solid second option. What it doesn’t do is physically contact the paint, which means no abrasion.
What to avoid entirely: brush car washes. Even the softer foam varieties introduce microscopic scratches and swirl marks into the clear coat over time. On a ceramic-coated vehicle, those swirls accumulate in the coating itself, dulling the very finish the coating was meant to protect. It’s a gradual process, but it adds up.
For daily drivers, Ryan recommends a full professional detail once or twice a year. He stocks ceramic coating toppers, products that refresh and reinforce the base coating, and when a car comes in for its annual service, he runs a decontamination process first. This strips away accumulated soap residue, iron fallout, and road chemicals that have bonded to the top of the coating, cutting back down to the ceramic layer itself.
“Those chemicals build up on top of the ceramic,” Ryan explains. “The decontaminate gets you back to the base.”
He also carries Weathertech liners, mud flaps, and professionalgrade car care products for customers who want to maintain their vehicles properly between visits. It’s a complete ecosystem: coating, maintenance, protection, all in one place.
Ryan’s customer base is a testament to his reputation. Most clients find him through Google reviews, and the reviews are, as
he puts it, “pretty stellar.” Word travels. He’s worked on trucks that rolled through from Texas, cars from Florida, and people passing through South Dakota who knew they needed a quality detailer and trusted the reviews to find one. That kind of reach, for a one-man shop in the upper Midwest, says something.
The future at O’Riley Custom Detailing has a clear direction. Ryan is working toward owning his own property rather than renting his current space. He’s expanding into paint protection film, which adds a physical barrier against chips and road debris on top of or alongside ceramic coating. There’s talk of getting back into truck accessories, something Ryan worked on in high school and has never fully let go of, and the idea of building out a small truck customization side to the business.
He’s also considering detailing classes. An open-door policy already exists: anyone can stop by with questions, pick up car care products, or just see what’s happening in the shop. Formalizing that into a teaching context feels like a natural next step for someone who learned the trade the same way: watching, helping, absorbing it over years before ever calling it a business.
Ryan O’Riley started his business because people kept showing up asking him to take care of their cars. He’s built something worth showing up for.
To learn more about the products and expert services at OCD Detailing, call Ryan at 605-651-9947 or stop in at the shop. Check out their Facebook page for promotions, shows, and photos.
Anyone can stop by with questions, pick up car care products, or just see what’s happening in the shop.
POWER THE FUTURE.
At Lake Area Technical College, our Energy Operations program prepares you to operate, monitor, and troubleshoot the systems that keep power and process plants running.
Whether you see yourself working in power generation, ethanol production, oil refining, or emerging energy technologies, you’ll gain hands-on experience with the equipment and processes that drive modern industry.
Start a career that keeps the world moving. Visit lakeareatech.edu.
-Motor Market PresentsSHOW US YOUR
ABlazerRestored:The Breyfogle’s Ride
By Ingrid Hayward | Photography by Jeh L Photography
Meet Greg and Lori Breyfogle, enthusiastic restorers and proud owners of a stunning 1972 Chevrolet Blazer. Their journey is not just another automotive story but a reflection of family bonds, passion, and the joy of restoring a classic.
Initially, Greg had his sights set on a 1968 Pontiac Firebird for restoration. However, his dreams took a sharp turn when he saw his brother’s project, a 1972 Blazer he had built for the BarrettJackson Auction in Scottsdale, Arizona. Captivated by the firstgeneration Blazer’s style, Greg embarked on a quest to find one
HAVE A RIDE YOU WANT TO SHOW
for himself. In October 2021, he stumbled upon his dream ride for sale in Granville, Iowa, for $7,500.
The Blazer had a storied past, having sat in a barn for a decade before Greg discovered it. Before that, it was left untouched in a Minnesota farm field since 1982, with even the old plates still attached.
Coincidentally, Greg found out that the owner also had a second Blazer sitting in that barn for over a decade. The twist
of fate made the restoration project feel even more connected when Greg discovered that his brother had purchased it the year prior out of Kansas City from the owner’s brother. The odds of that happening, two brothers buying Blazers from two other brothers? Almost unbelievable!
After a long and rewarding restoration process, Greg and Lori finally fired up the engine for the first time in May 2025, with a mix of excitement and apprehension and a fire extinguisher in hand, demonstrating just how much this project meant to them.
For Greg, working on the Blazer was about more than just rebuilding a vehicle; it became a journey of stories. Each part, sourced from locations ranging from eastern Iowa to central Nebraska, carries a unique tale. Whether it’s a bumper or a door handle, Greg relishes sharing where each piece came from and the people he met while assembling these parts.
The Blazer, affectionately nicknamed “The Blazer,” has become a symbol of joy for both Greg and Lori. One of Greg’s favorite aspects is witnessing the joy it brings Lori when they take it for spins together, each cruise amplifying the love and sacrifices they both put into this project.
He particularly enjoys the automatic running boards that extend when the door opens, welcoming passengers and epitomizing the charm of their vintage ride.
NAME: Greg and Lori Breyfogle
CAR YEAR-MAKE-MODEL: 1972 Chevrolet Blazer
ENGINE: 5.3L LM7 “VORTEC 5300” V8
TRANSMISSION: 4L60E
SUSPENSION: Skyjacker 2.5 in. Suspension Lift System
EXHAUST: Dual Exhaust from Sioux Muffler, Sioux City
BODY: Full, removable top
INTERIOR: Black carpet, custom door panels, brown seats
What’s next for this free-spirited couple? They plan to drive, enjoy, and showcase the Blazer while holding firm to the mantra that it’s not for sale; this beauty isn’t leaving their hands anytime soon.
Greg humorously acknowledges the ongoing nature of restoration: “You never really finish a classic like this. There’s always another adjustment or upgrade waiting.”
While navigating the intricacies of building out the Blazer himself, down to the frame, Greg has invaluable advice for other aspiring restorers: “Take more pictures of your disassembly than you think you might need, because you will need them,” he shares with a knowing smile.
This classic Blazer features numerous upgrades, including: LS Swap with a Holley Terminator X Max ECU, 4L60E automatic transmission, Rear disk brake conversion with hydroboost power, Vintage Air front runner and AC system, Dakota Digital gauges, AMP running boards, Classic Car Stereo with Bluetooth and Sub, and an OEM Tilt steering column.
A project brought to life with dedication and passion, Greg and Lori Breyfogle’s 1972 Chevrolet Blazer is more than a meticulously restored classic car; it’s a symbol of family, commitment, and shared adventures on the open road.
If you see them cruising around, make sure to salute this dynamic duo and their remarkable ride!
Cars, Community, and a Cause
By Lauren Johnson
Every August, the low rumble of classic V8s and the flash of chrome under the South Dakota sun announce the return of something special. On Sunday, August 9, 2026, the 6th Annual Sertoma Shine and Show will once again transform the Cars For Sale parking lot at Lake Lorraine into a lively gathering of families, car enthusiasts, and community spirit— all for a powerful local cause, the All-Abilities Playground at Sertoma Park.
Hosted by the Sioux Falls Noon Sertoma Club, this free, family-friendly event runs from 1 to 4 p.m., with cars arriving around noon. Organizers expect 175 or more classic cars to roll in, continuing a tradition that began in 2021. Unlike many
car shows, there’s no registration fee for participants, a deliberate choice that keeps the focus on fun and community rather than competition. “Car owners are glad to come to our car show to draw people to the Sertoma Shine and Show and support the cause,” states Mike Gillespie, new president of the Sioux Falls Noon Sertoma Club. Owners return year after year, reconnecting with old friends while showing off meticulously restored machines that never lose their appeal.
The Sioux Falls Noon Sertoma Club has been quietly serving the community since 1929 under the motto “Service to Mankind.” At the heart of their current efforts, the All-Abilities Playground at Sertoma Park is a $1.1 million collaboration with Sioux Falls Parks & Recreation. The project will install inclusive play structures and sensory equipment so children and families of all abilities can play side by side. Thanks to strong community support, including proceeds from the car show and the upcoming Sertoma Fest on October 9, the club has now raised approximately 70% of the total goal. Club leaders are hopeful they can break ground this fall, although it could be a spring 2027 start depending on final funding and city approvals.
This year’s Sertoma Shine and Show offers even more reasons to come out. DJ Big John Small with Sunny Radio (a.k.a. Car Show Radio) is donating his time to keep the energy high throughout the afternoon with great tunes, and he’s bringing along a full-scale replica of the Declaration of Independence—an inspiring touch for America’s 250th
birthday. Attendees can also enjoy a delicious smoked pork loin sandwich with chips and a drink for a donation of their choice. Hy-Vee contributes discounted food, and local businesses donate between $500 and $1,000 to support the show and the cause behind it. Proceeds from the food, along with a 50/50 raffle, directly support the All-Abilities Playground as well as ongoing services to the community.
Each year, club members provide free hearing screenings to nearly 9,000 elementary students across the Sioux Empire and donate hearing aids to those who can’t afford them. They also award scholarships to deaf and hard-of-hearing students and those pursuing careers in audiology and speech-language pathology.
Mike has helped organize the Shine and Show for the past four years and says the event has always been about more than cars.
“People have a good time and a lot of owners know each other,” he says. “It allows us to offer some great family fun for the people of Sioux Falls, and it’s a fantastic way to enjoy some great food and look at some of the nicest cars in town.”
To learn more about ways to sponsor the event, donate, or get involved in their ongoing work, visit noonsertoma.com. Come for the cars, stay for the community, and help turn a shared vision into a lasting legacy for Sioux Falls.
6TH ANNUAL
SHINE AND SHOW
SUNDAY, AUGUST 9, 2026 1pm to 4pm Lake Lorraine/CarsForSale Parking
Largest
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New Takeoff Boxes Dodge, Ram, Chevy, & GMC Rear Bumpers
Ford Super Duty Rear Bumpers 1999-2025
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tailgate
RE-STYLIZED
By Bob Schmeichel
Over the years, you have heard me say many times that it is cheaper to buy an old car of your dreams than it is to build it. All too often, that is true, but I have also seen some guys kind of having to “Bite the bullet” and accept the car or truck for what it is while having to redo one thing or another to get it the way it should be. That is not always the case when a reputable shop with a well-known name builds a vehicle totally while having a standard to maintain in order to keep business coming in. Before the shop hands the vehicle off to the new owner, they usually test drive the vehicle, making sure everything works and functions as it should. If it needs attention, they fix it and hand it off with pride, knowing their customer is totally satisfied.
My story today starts with Verlyn Ramse always liking 1957 Corvettes, and while in Arizona during the last winter, attends one of the Mecum Auctions for fun. While walking through the huge location of the auction with thousands of cars on display, Verlyn and Rhonda, his wife, notice this bright blue ‘57 Corvette with grey-colored accents that grabbed their attention. The more they look at it, the more they like it and agree to get in on the auction with bidding on the car when it comes up on the auction block.
So, with that, here is a bit of the backstory of the build of the car they were looking at that started its life at Pinkee’s Hot Rod Shop in Windsor, Colorado. Apparently, the original owner brought in an old ‘57 Corvette and wanted everything updated underneath the body, along with modifying the body heavily to be different but still maintaining a ‘57 Corvette first-impression appearance. First on the agenda was removing the body from the old frame and placing it on a new Art Morrison chassis as a solid foundation to start the build with. A narrowed, 4.11-geared Currie 9” Ford rear end was added in back with a 4-link connection and suspended
with coilover shocks for adjustability for ride height. In the front, a specialized independent suspension was created while using forged spindles along with power rack and pinion steering and coilover shocks, as in the rear. Power Wilwood disc brakes were installed all around. A 350 HP 350 cubic inch RamJet Chevrolet engine was installed along with a 4L80E AOD transmission to complete the drive train. The Ram Jet fuel injection was modified to look like an old school original injection setup.
Once the marriage of the frame and body was done, a huge amount of body modifications began, starting with enlarging all four wheel well openings to accommodate the wider wheels that would be used. When the Pinkee crew finally got into modifying the body, they started with the nose of the Corvette grill opening made out of fiberglass, and extending it forward to match the nose of a 1967 AC Cobra, and doing the same with the headlights. After extending the headlights, they also frenched the headlights, which means they were sunk into their openings for a custom look. Going back along the sides of the body, the original coves on the front fenders and doors were reshaped to be eliminated, matching the main body contour. That modification usually will make most Corvette people cringe, as it was a major identifiable shape on that year’s Corvette.
After getting those areas straight, they created a new body line that extends straight back a chosen distance, off the top of both the front and rear wheel well openings. Those new body lines are a very subtle change, but look very tasteful. Many billet trim pieces were created, starting with a new custom floating grill in the front, then came side trim panels that were bolted to the front fenders behind the front tires, and a tailpipe collector that bolts to the body below the trunk lid. The owner wanted the
tailpipes to exit under the middle of the car rather than the original location, which was originally out through the back of each rear fender and through holes in the bumper. All these billet pieces were painted grey along with other original trim pieces to give the blue color some contrast. Smaller, new, thinner bumpers were hand-created and fitted tightly against the body curves.
The interior is pretty much all custom made, also starting with a handmade all-metal dash that is filled with Classic gauges, Vintage AC/Heat, an entertainment system with Bluetooth, Sirius XM and GPS. There is a brown leather-wrapped Budnik steering wheel on top of the Ididit tilt column. The door windows are power. The entire interior and trunk, as is the steering wheel, are all done in a dark brown colored leather along with a tight weave Mercedes carpeting. The whole exhaust system from the headers back to the center exit area below the trunk is custom made out of stainless steel and lets you know that this Corvette is not stock while being an attention-getter appearance-wise.
Because of that, Verlyn says Rhonda loves the car. With what I have written here, you have probably guessed by now that the Ramses had the winning bid for way less but still expensive, on a no-reserve car that probably cost between 200K and 300K to build. When I went to interview Verlynn about his new ride, he asked me if I’d like to drive it and see what I thought. I said why not. So off we went for a short drive, and I was really surprised by how the car worked, feeling very solid and unexpectedly fast. Even driving it at a normal pace without getting on it away from a stop sign, the transmission shifts hard from low to second gear in less than 10 feet, and it felt like I popped the clutch in a car with a manual transmission while lunging forward. When I commented about that, Verlyn said he thought it would be fun to do some Auto-crossing with it because of the way it handles and accelerates. I said, “Don’t let me stop you!!” We’ll see where it goes from there!
A farm boy from Salem, Bob’s family moved to Sioux Falls when he was 12 years-old. After graduating from Washington High School, he attended USD, where he majored in Commercial Art. A lifelong auto and art enthusiast, Bob wanted to combine his passions into a career. A self-taught mechanic, bodywork, welder and painter, he worked in the industry for seven years. He later went to work for Horner Waldorf Box Company, where he worked for the next 33 years, retiring as Package Design Manager for Smurfit Stone Container. Bob has built dozens of street rods over the years, doing everything except the upholstery work. Bob started the Great Plains Street Rodders Car Club in 1985, and today the club has over 340 members. You can see more of Bob’s paintings and car features on the club’s website: www. greatplainsstreetrodders.com
business hours: Monday: 10am-5pm tuesday-friday: 8am-5pm Saturday: 8am-noon Sunday:
Filling a Workforce Need
By Kim Fickett
As the demand for industrial technologies trades continues to soar, Lakes Area Technical College (LATC) is there to answer the call with its Energy Operations program. The demand to fill these needs is so great that it is exceeding the number of graduates coming out of the educational institutions.
“In many cases, students are being recruited and interviewed for positions before they graduate,” states Brooks Jacobsen, electronic systems technology/ robotics department supervisor.
As a large portion of the current industrial workforce is nearing retirement age, facilities are continuing to add advanced controls, integrating systems, and adding new industrial technologies.
“Companies are looking for people who can troubleshoot systems, think critically, communicate well, and adapt to rapidly changing technology. That demand has created excellent opportunities for students entering the field and has increased visibility of programs like ours,” Brooks notes.
Enter LATC’s Energy Operations program. The curriculum is designed to prepare students to work in modern industrial process facilities where they operate, monitor, troubleshoot, and improve highly technical systems.
According to Brooks, students learn process operations, instrumentation, advanced controls, electrical fundamentals, safety, and troubleshooting skills
that are used in industries such as ethanol production, utilities, manufacturing, food processing, and other industrial operations environments.
The program equips students with the skills they need to become process operators, plant operators, control room operators, production technicians, utility operators, and industrial process technicians.
“I think students today are much more aware of the opportunities available in technical careers than they were even five or 10 years ago,” Brooks shares. “Industries have become far more technologydriven, and students are realizing these careers offer excellent pay, strong job stability, advancement opportunities, and hands-on work environments.”
To ensure their students are top candidates in the workforce hiring pool, Brooks said LATC’s Energy Operations program is hands-on.
“Students are not just learning concepts in a classroom; they are actively troubleshooting systems, working with instrumentation, process trainers, advanced controls equipment, and industrial systems on a daily basis,” Brooks explains.
It is that type of hands-on program that continues to draw students to LATC, with an overall 99.1 percent graduate placement rate, and 82 percent of those graduates remaining in South Dakota.
LATC is also proud to collaborate with advanced manufacturing programs to set its program apart from the rest.
“Our students work alongside technologies and equipment that overlap with robotics, electronic systems technology, energy technology, and other industrial programs. That gives students a much broader understanding of modern industrial systems and how today’s industries are interconnected.”
As workforce demand continues to grow for this field, Brooks notes that it’s important that people outside the industry realize just how advanced modern industrial facilities have become.
“Today’s operators work with computerized controls, instrumentation systems, integrated technologies, and highly technical equipment every day. These are not just traditional labor positions anymore; they are highly skilled technical careers that require critical thinking and problem-solving.
“Our graduates help support industries that are critical to manufacturing, agriculture, utilities, food production, and energy infrastructure throughout the Midwest.”
Events
58TH ANNUAL BLACK HILLS ROD RUN CAR SHOW
July 10-11, 2026 – 8:00 am – 6:00 pm Black Hawk, SD
HEDAHL’S AUTO VALUE CAR SHOW
July 11, 2026 - 11:00 am - 4:00 pm Redfield, SD
LYMAN HIGH SCHOOL CLASSIC CAR SHOW
July 11, 2026 – 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm Presho, SD
CUSTER CRUISER NIGHT
July 11, 2026 – 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm Custer, SD
MANDAN CRUISE NIGHT CAR SHOW
July 13, 2026 – 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm Mandan, ND
55TH ANNUAL BLACK HILLS CORVETTE CLASSIC Tour the Black Hills
July 15-18, 2026 Spearfish, SD
4TH ANNUAL SUNRISE CLASSIC CAR SHOW
July 16, 2026 - 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm 5501 Gordon Dr. Sioux City, IA
SCENE OF THE CRASH CAR AND BIKE SHOW
July 17-18, 2026
Dakota Thurston County Fairgrounds Dakota City, NE
43RD ANNUAL PRAIRIE CRUISERS CAR CLUB SHOW
July 17-18, 2026 – 11:00 am – 2:00 pm Prairie Outpost Park Dickinson, ND
-SPONSORED BY -
LANDREAU CAR SHOW
July 18, 2026 - 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm Flandreau, SD
DAHL MOTORS CAR SHOW
July 18, 2026 – 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm Pipestone, MN
35TH KINGSBURY CLASSIC CRUISERS CAR SHOW
July 19, 2026 – 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Lake Preston, SD
VETTES IN THE PARK
July 24, 2026 - 11:00 am - 3:00 pm
Sampson Corvettes - Sanborn, IA
July 25, 2026 - 8:00 am - 2:00 pm Arnolds Park, IA
9TH ANNUAL HURLEY CRUISE NIGHT AND BURNOUT
July 24, 2026 - 6:00 pm
Lincoln County Airport - Hurley, SD
CARS & COFFEE OF SIOUXLAND
July 25, 2026 - 8:00 am - 11:00 am
Lincoln County Airport - Tea, SD
MITCHELL ARTS IN THE PARK SHOW AND SHINE CAR SHOW
July 25, 2026 – 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm Hitchcock Park Mitchell, SD
26TH ANNUAL HONEY DAYS CAR SHOW
July 25, 2026
Bruce, SD
NYBERG’S ACE HOT CLASSICS NIGHT
July 25, 2026 - 4:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Sioux Falls, SD
CANTON CAR SHOW FOR GENERATIONS
July 25-26, 2026 - 11:00 am Canton, SD
COUNTS CAR CLUB
VINTAGE DIRT DRAGS IN DAKOTA
July 31-August 1, 2026
Bandit Speedway - Box Elder, SD
PIONEER AUTO CLUB SHOW & SHINE
August 1, 2026 – 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
Bismarck Capitol Grounds
Bismarck, ND
14TH ANNUAL ARMOUR LIONS CAR & TRUCK SHOW
August 1, 2026 – 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Lions Park on Hwy. 281 Armour, SD
2ND ANNUAL ZION LUTHERAN CAR SHOW
August 1, 2026 – 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Zion Lutheran Church Parking Lot Aberdeen, SD
D.A.D.’S AUTO REPAIR SHOW & SHINE
August 1, 2026
Beresford, SD
CHASERS 16TH ANNUAL CAR SHOW
August 1, 2026 - 3:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Chasers - Sioux Falls, SD
CLARK COUNTY CLASSICS CAR SHOW
August 1, 2026 - 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Clark, SD
SIOUX FALLS CLASSIC CAR AUCTION
August 1, 2026 - 10:00 AM
Denny Sanford Premier Center
Sioux Falls, SD
PONCA FROG DAYS
CAR AND TRACTOR SHOW
August 5, 2026 – 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm Ponca State Park Ponca, NE
VILLAGE CREEK DAYS CAR SHOW
August 2, 2026 – 12:00 – 4:00 pm Chester, SD
86TH ANNUAL STURGIS RALLY
August 7-16, 2026 Sturgis, SD sturgis.com
37TH ANNUAL STREET MASTER DAM RUN
August 7 – 1:00 pm, August 8, 2026 – 4:00 pm
500 East Capitol Avenue Pierre, SD
SERTOMA SHINE AND SHOW
August 9, 2026
Cars For Sale Parking Lot Sioux Falls, SD
24TH ANNUAL SHOW & SHINE CAR SHOW
August 12, 2026 – 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm 2501 W. 22nd Street, Sioux Falls Sioux Falls, SD
ROSHOLT CRUISE-IN
August 15, 2026 – 11:00 am – 3:00 pm Rosholt, SD
25TH ANNUAL ARLINGTON CAR SHOW
August 16, 2026 - 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm Arlington City Park Arlington, SD
9TH ANNUAL MONONA COUNTY VETERANS MEMORIAL CAR AND BIKE SHOW
August 16, 2026 – 10:00 am – 3:30 pm Monona County Fairgrounds Onawa, IA
KOOL DEADWOOD NITES CAR SHOW
August 18-23, 2026
Deadwood, SD
3-DAY CLASSIC CAR AUCTION
McPherson Auction
August 20-22, 2026
Deadwood Mountain Grand
Deadwood, SD
WES RICK MEMORIAL AND BANDIT SHOOTOUT
Presented by Yoder’s Speed Shop
August 21-22, 2026
Bandit Speedway - Box Elder, SD
TERRY KOCH’S RACE SHOW CRUISE NIGHT FUNDRAISER
August 22, 2026
Sioux Falls, SD
CARS AND COFFEE
August 29, 2026 - 8:00 am - 11:00 am
875 Prospect St. SW
Le Mars, IA
STURGIS MUSTANG RALLY SHOW & SHINE
September 1-6, 2026
Sturgis, SD
MONTANA CLASSIC CAR AUCTION
Classic Car Auction Group
September 5, 2026 ONLINE ONLY - classiccarauction.com
STUDEBAKER CAR SHOW
September 6, 2026 - 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Custer, SD
RIBS, RODS & ROCK N’ ROLL
September 11-12, 2026
Vermillion, SD
VINTIQUES ROD RUN & CAMPOUT
September 11-13, 2026
Watertown, SD
8TH ANNUAL MIDWEST REGIONAL HOT ROD RALLY
September 11- 12, 2026
Woodbury County Fairgrounds
Moville, IA
CARS & COFFEE OF SIOUXLAND
September 12, 2026 - 8:00 am - 11:00 am
Lincoln County Airport - Tea, SD
3RD ANNUAL SHOW & SHINE: RIB & RIDES
September 12, 2026 - 1:00 pm - 8:00 pm Pressler Park - Humboldt, SD
PISTONS & PUMPKINS CAR SHOW
September 12, 2026 – 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
2500 2nd Avenue N. Moorhead, MN
44TH ANNUAL BLACK HILLS SWAP MEET
September 13, 2026
Central States Fairgrounds - Rapid City, SD
20TH ANNUAL CHARITY BENEFIT CAR & BIKE SHOW
September 20, 2026 – 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Rydell Auto Center
Grand Forks, ND
CHICKEN CHASE LAKE AREA CRUISERS
September 27, 2026 – 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
Rosalie’s Restaurant and Bakery Sisseton, SD
42 ND ANNUAL FALL AUTO PARTS SWAP MEET AND CARS FOR SALE CORRAL
October 11, 2026 - 7:30 am - 1:00 pm Fairgrounds parking lot - Monticello, IA
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BUILDING ENGINES THE BEST THAT WE CAN
THE EXT R A MILE
Not the Cheapest That We Can
Today, we as individuals are all caught up in the cost of a product and seem to be less interested in the actual quality of the product. When it comes to building engines of today, it is wise to be cautious about cutting corners to conform to a preconceived engine expense. We now desire higher horsepower and torque engine output, which is more achievable today with the availability of better-engineered engine parts and the practice of precise engine machining procedures. These parts come at a higher cost than others because of the materials and procedures used to produce them. The precision machining process needed to complete and properly fit all the parts correctly will take more time and experience to execute, and that also comes at a higher cost.
When we look at proposing an engine package to our customer, we consider the actual use of the engine, the power and torque requirements, what it is going to take to achieve those goals, the quality of the parts that it will take to make the engine reliable and useful for the desired distance, and all the necessary machining
processes required. Next, we go over our findings and proposal with our customer, and we then discuss and explain the reasons for the procedures and parts that are required. We then make changes if there are any additions or concerns in the proposal. We use all of our years of experience in doing this, and we don’t overlook anything. If anything is overlooked or assumed, then that opens the door for a premature engine failure disaster.
Not all engine parts are created equal. Some parts look the same but are not of the same material and quality. Using these clone engine parts will result in a failure and can be very costly if the part that fails is a major engine component, and can be an annoying nuisance if it is a minor engine component. We only use engine parts that are properly tested in an approved R&D facility. These parts do cost a little more than the clone parts, but are more than three times the quality. Choosing the correct part is also important; for example, if a piston is chosen for the desired compression ratio and the actual combustion chamber volume is larger than advertised, and
the head gasket is thicker than the calculated advertised piston compression ratio, the actual effective compression ratio can be much less than thought, and power loss is experienced. Taking the steps to check and set up all of the parts takes time and increases the cost slightly, but the increase in power and dependability is far more than the cost. The cost of not checking and doing these things can be disappointing.
Here at Sehr Performance, our customers come first. The initial “cost” of the engine is nothing compared to the “cost” of an engine failure. At the end of the day, our customers experience what they desire in the engine for their hot rod because we always go the “Extra Mile” for them, always.
REGISTER YOUR CLASSIC CAR!
The 2025 Committee’s Choice winner was this ‘59 Chevrolet Impala owned by Curtis Jensen. It is pictured in front of the Days of `76 Museum.
Saturday, August 22, 2026
Your vehicle must be a 1973 or older. Walk up registration available at the event. Online Registration is available on DeadwoodCarShow.com
Tuesday, August 18, 2026
9 am: Mr. Wu’s Branded Chair Giveaway!
First 200 people to Wu’s win a free chair!
Noon-6 pm: Car Registration – Lower Main Parking Lot @ Deadwood Welcome Center
Noon – 7 pm: Complimentary BBQ at Mr. Wu’s
Noon – 10 pm: $10 Bottomless Draft Beer at Mr. Wu’s
3-6 pm: Free Concert – Kuhl & The Gangstas –Mr. Wu’s
6-9 pm: Show & Shine – Park your registered Classic Car on Main Street, between Wall and Main.
7-9:30 pm: Free Concert – Bluffett “A Tribute to Jimmy Buffett” – Mr. Wu’s
Wednesday, August 19, 2026
8 am-6 pm: Car Registration –Lower Main Parking Lot @ Deadwood Welcome Center
9 am: Mr. Wu’s Branded Chair Giveaway!
First 200 people to Wu’s win a free chair!
Noon – 7 pm: Complimentary BBQ at Mr. Wu’s
Noon – 10 pm: $10 Bottomless Draft Beer at Mr. Wu’s
3-6 pm: Free Concert – Bitter Sweet Band – Mr. Wu’s
6 pm: Free Concert begins at Outlaw Square featuring Surfin’ Safari
7-10 pm: Free Concert – El Loco Fandango “Colorado’s Tribute to ZZ Top” – Mr. Wu’s
Thursday, August 20, 2026
8 am-8 pm: Car Registration –Lower Main Parking Lot @ Deadwood Welcome Center
9 am: Mr. Wu’s Branded Chair Giveaway! First 200 people to Wu’s win a free chair!
Noon-5 pm: Driving Poker Runs – throughout the Black Hills
Noon – 7 pm: Complimentary BBQ at Mr. Wu’s
Noon – 10 pm: $10 Bottomless Draft Beer at Mr. Wu’s
2 pm: Deadwood Alive Shootout in front of the Gold Dust Casino/Midnight Star
3-6 pm: Free Concert – Westbound – Mr. Wu’s
3 pm: Classic Car Auction – Deadwood Mountain Grand. Call 605-348-1369 for more info
4 pm-9 pm: People’s Choice Awards & Voting History and Information Center Parking Lot and portions of Deadwood Main Street
4 pm: Deadwood Alive Shootout in front of the Gold Dust Casino/Midnight Star.
7-10 pm: Free Concert – The Long Run “Colorado’s Tribute to the Eagles” – Mr. Wu’s
8 pm: 19th Annual Sock Hop –Featuring Million Dollar Reunion on Main Street Stage
Following concert: People’s Choice Award Results – Main Street Stage
Friday, August 21, 2026
8 am-8 pm: Car Registration – Lower Main Street Parking Lot @ Deadwood Welcome Center
9 am: Classic Car Auction – Deadwood Mountain Grand. Call 605-348-1369 for more info
9 am: Mr. Wu’s Branded Chair Giveaway! First 200 people to Wu’s win a free chair!
10 am-2 pm: 18th Annual Rod Run
Noon – 7 pm: Complimentary BBQ at Mr. Wu’s Noon – 10 pm: $10 Bottomless Draft Beer at Mr. Wu’s
2 pm: Deadwood Alive Shootout in front of the Gold Dust Casino/Midnight Star.
3-6 pm: Free Concert – Hot City Soul – Mr. Wu’s
4 pm: Deadwood Alive Shootout in front of the Gold Dust Casino/Midnight Star.
5 pm: FREE MAIN STREET CONCERT – Stereo Trip
6 pm: FREE MAIN STREET CONCERT –Play Some Petty
7-10 pm: Free Concert – Thunderstruck
“America’s AC/DC”– Mr. Wu’s
8 pm: FREE MAIN STREET CONCERT –Hotel California
7 am-Noon: Car Registration –Lower Main Street Parking Lot @ Deadwood Welcome Center
7 am-Noon: Classic Car Competition/Judging –Days of ’76 Event Complex
9 am: Classic Car Auction – Deadwood Mountain Grand. Call 605-348-1369 for more info
9 am: Mr. Wu’s Branded Chair Giveaway! First 200 people to Wu’s win a free chair!
10 am-4 pm: Walking Poker Runs
Noon – 7 pm: Complimentary BBQ at Mr. Wu’s
Noon – 10 pm: $10 Bottomless Draft Beer at Mr. Wu’s
3-6 pm: Free Concert – Stereo Trip – Mr. Wu’s
5 pm: Poker Run Awards party at TBD – Lower Main Street
5 pm: FREE MAIN STREET CONCERT – Hot City Soul
6 pm: FREE MAIN STREET CONCERT – The Box Tops
7-10 pm: Free Concert – Long Live Rock “Classic Rock Favorites and Anthems” – Mr. Wu’s
8 pm: FREE MAIN STREET CONCERT –FJ Tribute – The Music of Foreigner, Journey, & Classic Legends
Sunday, August 23, 2026
7 am: Parade Line-up – Rodeo Grounds/Ferguson Field
9 am: Parade – Main Street, continues through Central City & Lead.
10 am-2 pm: Show and Shine – Main Street –immediately following the parade until 2 pm.
11 am: Awards – Parking lot at the History and Information Center
*All cars must be off Main Street by 2 p.m. on Sunday, August 23, 2026! Thank you.
Two shuttles will be available to get you into town! Pick up at the Cedar Rose Spa (Hwy 14a, 1 mile north of Deadwood) and drop off at Deadwood Welcome Center (501 Main St). Lead shuttle picks up from L/D High School (320 S Main St, Lead) and the Sanford Lab Homestake Visitor Center (160 W. Main St, Lead) and drops off at the Deadwood Fire Station (737 Main St.). Hours posted on www.DeadwoodCarShow.com. Shuttles run continuously during this time.
TALKING TIRES
WHAT YOUR VEHICLE’S CHECK ENGINE LIGHT REALLY MEANS
You’ve probably seen the check engine light glowing on your dashboard at least once, wondering whether your car is about to break down or if it’s just a harmless glitch.
That small warning is part of your vehicle’s onboard diagnostics system. It’s the car’s way of signaling that something isn’t working right, and “something” could be almost anything. Understanding what it means, how to respond, and when to call a mechanic can save you time, money and frustration.
Common causes
A loose or cracked gas cap is one of the most frequent triggers. If the cap isn’t sealing properly, fuel vapors escape and disrupt pressure in the fuel system. Tightening or replacing the cap usually resolves the issue.
Oxygen sensors measure unburned oxygen in the exhaust system. When one fails, the engine computer can’t properly adjust the air-fuel mixture, reducing fuel economy and increasing emissions.
The catalytic converter cleans harmful gases before they exit the exhaust. When it’s clogged or failing, expect sluggish performance and possibly a rotten-egg smell. A damaged converter needs prompt attention to avoid costlier repairs down the road.
Spark plugs and ignition coils ignite the fuelair mixture that powers the engine. When they misfire, you may notice rough idling or hesitation during acceleration. Prolonged misfires can damage the catalytic converter and increase fuel consumption.
The mass airflow sensor measures how much air enters the engine. A dirty or failing sensor can cause stalling, poor mileage or trouble starting the car.
Finally, the evaporative emissions control system prevents fuel vapors from escaping into the atmosphere. Cracked hoses, stuck valves or leaks in this system are common triggers for the warning light.
Solid versus flashing light
Not all check engine lights carry the same urgency.
A solid light typically means the problem isn’t critical but should be diagnosed soon. You can continue driving cautiously, but don’t postpone repairs.
A flashing light indicates a severe malfunction, often tied to misfiring or unburned fuel reaching the exhaust system. Pull over safely and turn off the engine as soon as possible. Continuing to drive can cause expensive damage to the catalytic converter or other components.
What to do when the light comes on
If the car runs normally and the light is steady, start by checking the gas cap. Tighten it and drive for a day or two to see if the light resets.
Many minor issues clear on their own once the system detects normal pressure.
If the car runs roughly, stalls, or loses power, have it checked immediately. Pull over safely and avoid driving long distances.
A few steps to take before reaching the shop: Check dashboard gauges, including low oil pressure or overheating, which can trigger the light indirectly. Listen for unusual vibrations or changes in acceleration, which may point to an engine misfire or transmission problem. If you must drive, turn off accessories such as the air conditioner or radio to reduce strain on the engine.
Can you drive with the light on?
If the light is solid and the car drives normally, it’s generally safe to drive a short distance to a repair shop. Avoid long trips until the issue is diagnosed.
If the light flashes or you notice performance problems, loss of power, rough idling, or smoke from the exhaust, pull over immediately.
Why ignoring it is risky
The check engine light doesn’t always signal immediate
danger, but ignoring it can lead to expensive consequences. A simple sensor fault can evolve into a catalytic converter failure or engine damage if left unchecked.
A misfire might seem minor, but unburned fuel sent into the exhaust can overheat and melt key components. A weak oxygen sensor can cause poor combustion, waste fuel, and coat the engine in carbon deposits.
Regular maintenance significantly reduces the chances of seeing the light come on. Keep the fuel cap tightened after every fill-up, use quality fuel, and replace filters and spark plugs according to manufacturer guidelines. Have the professionals at Graham Tire inspect sensors during major service appointments and check the battery and charging system regularly.
When that check engine light comes on, you want a team you can trust. With knowledgeable technicians, stateof-the-art diagnostic equipment, and a commitment to keeping you safely on the road, Graham Tire is your first call when your vehicle needs attention. Don’t wait for a small warning light to become a big repair bill. Visit your nearest Graham Tire location and let the experts take it from there.
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TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT THE CAR/WHY YOU CHOSE THIS CAR. WHAT’S YOUR CAR’S STORY?
“We found this frame hanging in a barn in Michigan,” Chuck said. “It is a basic tube chassis frame car. We have no idea who built the chassis or how old it is.”
The barn’s owner didn’t know how the car frame ended up in his barn. He agreed to sell it to Chuck only if Chuck guaranteed he’d restore the car and put it back on a race track.
“That was not a problem,” Chuck said. “We built this dragster and we really had fun.”
HAVE A RIDE YOU WANT
Chuck is a master service technician who has worked at John Deere for 32 years. He’s been a self-described “car nut” since high school.
“I’ve had a dozen different cars I wish had back. We build them and we sell them,” he said, noting his 1960s-era dragster is the only race car he’s ever had. The rest have been hot rods.
He started building the dragster when his daughter Jessica, now 23, was only nine years old. She was in the garage every night helping Chuck fit parts or hold parts.
Tanya Manus | Photography by Wayne Fuches
When Chuck’s dragster was restored and rebuilt to racing condition, Chuck raced it in Pierre for years from Memorial Day to Labor Day until the track closed. He’s taken the dragster racing or to car shows nationwide including California, Kentucky, Wisconsin, Colorado, Kansas, Minnesota, North Dakota and the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in South Dakota.
WHAT PLANS DO YOU HAVE FOR THIS CAR?
“I will race as long as I am healthy and still able to drive. I could go another 10 years easy,” Chuck said.
Driving the car requires a competition driver’s license, and Chuck is the only one in his family who has one. The car can go from 0 to 125 or 130 miles per hour in one-eighth
“We keep the car in an enclosed trailer. Every night when I come home, I’m out there just tinkering. Everything’s just got to be perfect at that kind of speed,” Chuck said.
The dragster cost about $5,000 in upkeep every year, which includes Chuck replacing the tires, he said. He also packs his own parachute, which is needed for slowing down the car after it’s been racing at high speeds.
WHAT’S AN INTERESTING FACT OR SOMETHING PEOPLE MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT THIS CAR?
“It is a very unique car. Sitting on top of the motor is what we call a Tunnel Ram intake manifold. It’s very old-school stuff. We work very hard to keep it old school,” said Chuck, who competed in a race in June that required cars to be pre-1966 and to look correct for their era in order to qualify for the race.
Name: Chuck Willey
City, State: Pierre, SD
Suspension: It is called a Hardtail, so no suspension other than the tires. passion for racing.
Car Year-Make-Model: 1960s-era front engine dragster
Engine: 427 cubic inch small-block Chevrolet with 765 horsepower
Transmission: Two-speed transmission
Exhaust: Zoomie header
Cruiser Night is July 25th, 2026
July 26th, 2026
ASK THE MOTOR MEDICS®
From the Hosts of the Under The Hood radio show
Dear Motor Medics,
I first heard about your show while reading our local newspaper and started listening to the podcasts on your website. While listening, I heard you mention that some vehicles have circuit board failures in the wiper motors, which can cause them to not operate when it is wet but to operate when it is dry, such as when using your windshield washers. My vehicle is a 1998 Chevy half-ton 4x4. Is this one of those vehicles, and if so, how hard is it to repair?
Thank you, Fred in Bluff City, Illinois
Dear Motor Medics,
Dear Fred,
Thanks for becoming a new listener. Your vehicle is one of the ones that can suffer from wiper failure when wet. The cause is moisture intrusion into the motor circuit board housing that can hinder proper operation. To repair the wipers, the board needs to be replaced. You should check with a GM dealership because there may be some extended coverage to repair this item. To find out, just call and give them your vehicle identification number, and they can check for you. If there is no coverage, you can do the job yourself with minimal tools and time. Make sure you verify that the board is the issue and not something else before you replace it. The board is a basic bolt-on part. You may check with your local shop, the cost to repair the wiper board problem is usually very affordable to have done.
Take
care, The Motor Medics
Hwy. 11, Garretson, SD
I have owned a 2021 Dodge Caravan since it was new. We keep this van in great shape and live in Arizona, where it does not see road salt or really cold winters, and with 60,000 miles, it still looks like brand new. We have had all of the maintenance done following the severe service intervals in the owner’s manual and then some. Last week, the brakes started to act up. While trying to stop, the pedal will get very hard to push down, and you can’t stop without both feet on the pedal. We had it checked at a local shop, and they said the brake module, which also controls the antilock brakes, was failing. They found one they could order, and the cost was over $2,000.00 to replace it. We are considering the repair only because the van is so nice, but the price seems steep. Is there anything else it could be?
Thank you, Mary in Scottsdale, Arizona
Dear Mary,
We don’t see many 2021 Dodge Caravans with this issue, thankfully, but it is a significant safety concern. The brake booster is part of the ABS and electric systems. When it fails, the repair will be very expensive, but there may be a silver lining for you. On some vans, an extended free repair was offered by the manufacturer due to the safety nature of the failure. Check with them to confirm coverage.
Take care, The Motor Medics
with The Motor Medics ® Shannon Nordstrom, Russ “The Super Tech” Evans, and Chris Carter
Our skilled technicians restored the vehicles you see here in the last few years. Some are restored to “as manufactured” specifications; others have a variety of modifications. Now is the time to get your vehicle scheduled into our shop for restoration. Whether you are considering factory stock, custom, “resto-mod” or total performance, our team is up to the task. To enhance your build, we are dealers for a wide variety of performance accessories and crate engines. And, don’t forget, we also now have our own upholstery shop! Call Zach at 605-214-1193, or stop in, to discuss your ideas and learn what we can do for you!
