Graffiti 2022

Graffiti 2022

MOST LIVE KITCHENS IN THE VALLEY! Best of 209 Winner 7 Consecutive Years.

APPLIANCES • PLUMBING • COUNTERS • TILE • CABINETS CABINET REFACING • SINKS • FAUCETS • KITCHEN & BATH REMODELS • MATTRESSES • OUTDOOR KITCHENS

2412 McHenry Ave., Modesto (209) 238-3000 www.DirectAppliance.com

GRAFFITI

2

MAY 2022

Here’s to Being

The Best!

Since 1867, our goal has been to provide the highest level of service and innovation for our customers. Being voted the “Best Bank”

in so many of the markets we serve validates our commitment to that objective. From business loans to expand a growing venture, to real estate loans to help you buy your first home, we’ve always been here for all your banking needs. And we’re constantly working to make banking easier with products like our mobile banking app, remote deposit and security alerts.

We remain dedicated to helping families and businesses grow, succeed and flourish throughout the communities we serve.

Visit a branch near you or check us out online and become part of the Bank of Stockton family!

bankofstockton.com GRAFFITI

3

MAY 2022

Graffiti MAY

●

C O N T E N T S GRAFFITI SUMMER ....................................................... 5 GRAFFITI FESTIVAL ........................................................ 6 STILL TRUCKING ........................................................... 8 CENTRAL VALLEY EARLY IRON ..................................... 10 GRAFFITI USA MUSEUM ............................................. 12 IMPALAS CAR CLUB .................................................... 14 MASRA CAR SHOW .................................................. 15 NEED FOR SPEED ....................................................... 16 GRAFFITI EXHIBIT ........................................................ 17 WESTSIDE AUTO CLUB ............................................... 18 ONE NIGHT IN MEMPHIS .......................................... 20 GREASERS FOR LIFE ................................................... 22 ELVIS TRIBUTE ............................................................. 24 209 CAR SHOWS ...................................................... 25 ALWAYS A FARO ........................................................ 26

2022

PUBLISHER/OWNER Hank Vander Veen EDITOR Sabra Stafford ART DIRECTOR Harold L. George GRAPHIC DESIGNER Sharon Hoffman SALES & MARKETING Chris Castro Beth Flanagan Corey Rogers Karen Olsen Melody Wann Charles Webber

WRITERS AND PHOTOGRAPHERS Christopher Correa Kristina Hacker Teresa Hammond Pawan Naidu Vince Rembulat Sabra Stafford Virginia Stills

To advertise call Manteca • 209.249.3500 Oakdale • 209.847.3021 Turlock • 209.634.9141 Newman • 209.862.2222 121 S. Center St. 2nd Floor • Turlock, CA 95380

©Copyright 2021. Reproduction in whole or in part of any text, photograph or illustration without written permission from the publisher of 209 Multimedia is strictly prohibited.

The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of 209 Multimedia management or owner. 209 Multimedia assumes no responsibility and makes no recommendation for claims made by advertisers and shall not be liable for any damages incurred.

GRAFFITI

4

MAY 2022

2022 GRAFFITI

Graffiti Summer Whips Back To June

By VIRGINIA STILL

G

raffiti Summer makes a return to the month of June in Modesto for 2022 and brings all the traditions with it, celebrating the car culture in not only the 209 but the world. There will be a variety of festivities going on during the month for gearheads and car enthusiasts everywhere including car shows, a parade and much more.

If you have not seen “American Graffiti” and are not sure what Graffiti Summer is all about, the State Theatre in Modesto will be rolling out the film at 1 p.m. June 4.

The celebration of the vintage hot rods and classic cars kicks off with the Graffiti Classic Car Show at the McHenry Village from 9 a.m. to e p.m. on June 5 presented by Modesto Area Street Rod Association.

The Graffiti Museum is now open and new to the Graffiti summer festivities keeping the history and car culture open year-round. They will present inductees into the Walk of Fame on June 8 in downtown Modesto.

Cars will be on display around Modesto in the evenings with the Mid-Valley Chevy Club’s “Park-n-Shines” car shows. On June 6, they will be at the Century Center and on June 9 ,the show will be at Cool Hand Luke’s in Riverbank.

The Graffiti parade and cruise will have 1,000 classic vehicles and even more spectators lining the streets at 6 p.m. June 10 in downtown Modesto and then travel down to McHenry Avenue.

The American Graffiti Festival and Car Show will be held on June 11 and 12 at the Modesto Junior College West Campus with a variety of cars, music, food and lots of fun.

“Graffiti Summer is Modesto’s biggest event,” stated Brent Burnside, chairman of the American Graffiti committee and Kiwanis Club of North Modesto.

The festival was canceled in 2020 but the Kiwanis club sold T-shirts at a drive-thru event as organizers noted that there are several people that collect Graffiti T-shirts each year and attend the event from all over the world.

In 2021 the Graffiti Summer continued but

was moved to the third weekend in August with some challenges and a few changes.

Graffiti organizers noted that Graffiti Summer was always held in June because it was the end of the school year as it was featured in the movie “American Graffiti” making it the time of year that they traditionally cruised. When August rolled around the students were heading back to school for the new school year.

The 14th Annual Rod and Custom Car Show presented by the Modesto Elks will be held on from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 26 at the Modesto Elks Lodge, 645 Charity Way in Modesto.

They will feature cars, trucks, and motorcycles from all years and have refreshments and music. ●

WWW.CHICKENRANCHCASINO.COM HWY 108 | Jamestown, CA

FIND OUT What We Are Up To!

GRAFFITI

5

MAY 2022

2022 GRAFFITI

Turbocharged American Graffiti Festival

By VIRGINIA STILL

T

he 23rd Annual American Graffiti Festival and Car Show presented by the Kiwanis Club of North Modesto will be held on June 11 and 12 at the Modesto Junior College’s West Campus, 2201 Blue Gum Ave., Modesto. This family friendly event will have rows of classic and vintage cars to explore and will also feature live entertainment, food, and craft vendors.

Brent Burnside, chairman of the American Graffiti committee for the past five years, noted that there will be over 15 food vendors and more than 50 craft and car-related vendors at the show.

“Folks just want to get out and live life and enjoy our weather here in the Valley and really just get out and enjoy the classic car culture,” said Burnside. “We will have great music with local talent on both days. MJC staff is working with us to pull it off with no glitches and I think if the weather agrees it will be a nice thing for everybody to attend.”

The festival begins at 9 a.m. on Saturday and ends at 5 p.m. with the fun continuing on Sunday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is $10 per person at the gate and children 12 and under are free.

“To have it back at MJC West campus is great because it is their 100-year anniversary for the campus,” stated Burnside. “It has a lot of remodeling and new administration buildings put in there. We are excited to have a classic car show on newly remodeled grounds of the MJC West campus. There are more sidewalks and nicer grass areas for the show cars to be parked in.”

The annual parade and cruise kicks off the weekend festivities at 6 p.m. on June 10 in downtown Modesto and then the classics will cruise down McHenry Avenue. The parade will feature 1,000 classic cars from 1979 and older.

Due to traffic congestion and the challenges for law enforcement, spectators, and car owners, organizers put a cap on the entries for the parade and they are hoping that 1,000 cars will be a successful number this year.

There will be live music on both days from local entertainers like Gary Gervase and Little Kick on Saturday morning; The Triple D classic rock band from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m.

Saturday; Gotcha Covered from 2:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; and the Gathering of the Vibes featuring the area’s top musicians from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Sunday.

The Great Valley Museum and planetarium has moved onto the MJC West campus and will be open on Saturday and Sunday.

Growing up in Modesto, Burnside recalls visiting the Great Valley Museum when he was in elementary school.

“That is a hidden gem,” Burnside said. “We would take a field trip to the Great Valley Museum when it was downtown. It is over the top now for kids to go experience it. That is what makes it even more family friendly. It is quite interesting to see how far they have come.”

Judy Herrero with the Marketing Committee for the North Modesto Kiwanis Club has been with the club for about eight years.

Herrero shared that new to the festival this year, John D’Agostino, a well-known car customizer will be attending the parade and will have a booth at the car show.

“D’Agostino has numerous ‘kustoms’ at the Petersen Automotive Museum and has been inducted into the Academy Awards of Automobile Excellence in Branson, Missouri,” said Herrero.

Another highlight is that actress Candy Clark from the 1973 movie “American Graffiti” will be back for the parade and show, added Herrero.

On Sunday at the car show, Modesto’s Cars and Coffee group will have modern muscle GRAFFITI

cars and exotic vehicles on display.

“We think young people, in particular, will enjoy these vehicles,” Burnside said.

The festival and car show will wrap with Classic Car Awards at 2 p.m. on Sunday.

“The thing I repeat every year and I think back about it, is just a reflection back in time when things were simpler,” shared Burnside.

“The challenges in life were nothing more

than work and family.”

For the past four years the festival and car show has been held at the Modesto Municipal Golf Course; however, prior to that it was held at MJC. Since the golf course is no longer being maintained they moved it back to MJC. “Car owners put a lot of effort into their cars and do not like them to get dirty,” said

LOCALLY OWNED, FAMILY OPERATED OVER 30 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE! Residential Commercial & Industrial Plumbing Services!

CALL NOW 209-581-0480 Our Services Include:

Sinks / Drains / Faucets • Septic Tanks and Sewer Lines Grease Traps / Floor Drains • Toilets / Water Heaters / Backflow Prevention • Hydro-Jetting / Preventative Maintenance Inspection • Gas and Water Pipelines Repair / Remodeling / Re-Piping Storm Water Treatment / Lift Station Maintenance SWTD Filter Replacements and MORE!

24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE AVAILABLE! 6

MAY 2022

4425 Farm Supply Drive, Ceres CA, 95307 ateeplesdrilling@sbcglobal.net www.applegateteeplesdrilling.com

Herrero. “You can’t just have a car show this size anywhere. It needs a lot of space. We approached MJC about coming back to the West campus and it is working out well.”

There will be shade and music so guests are invited to bring a camp chair and hang out during the event.

Late in-person car registrations will be from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. June 10 at the MJC Ag Building at College and Coldwell avenues. (The parade slots may all be filled by then, however.)

The Kiwanis Club of North Modesto is a non-profit 501(c)(3) with volunteers that serve the community.

“We are blessed that the city has worked with us over the years,” remarked Burnside. “Be patient, stay optimistic and come out and enjoy the best event that Modesto has to offer.”●

Making your vehicles beautiful again for over 40 years

Providing you with confidence, knowledge and skills to use your firearm safely and accurately OAKDALE LEADER ESCALON TIMES • RIVERBANK NEWS

• Reputable • Honest • Experienced • We work with all insurance companies.

• Firearms • Ammunition • Accessories • New • Used • Consignment • Transfer

CCW New & Renewal Classes

Serving area drivers since 1975

www.fredsfirearmstraining.com

Hand Gun Awareness Train like a Pro, even if you’re a beginner.

Oakdale, CA

ESCALON BODY & FRAME 2228 E. Main Street, Escalon

www.FredsFirearms.net • 209-840-2126 GRAFFITI

(209) 838-7783 7

MAY 2022

2022 GRAFFITI

Trucking along with C10s and K5s

By CHRISTOPHER CORREA

D

exter Albores of Livingston has a had a love for cars since he was a kid. After seeing lowriders hopping on hydros and having heard the exhausts on trucks screaming when they passed by, he knew it was something that he wanted to be a part of.

“When they passed by, I was like ‘When I grow up, I’m going to get me one.’”

Albores’ journey with cars began with a 1987 Checy C10 squarebody fleetside shortbed. Chevrolet made the popular two-wheeldrive trucks from 1960 to 1987, and they are considered to be one of the most reliable classic pickup trucks ever produced.

Albores would eventually sell the truck, which is something he thinks about often.

“That’s probably really the only one I regret selling,” he said.

His love for trucks, particularly the C10 models, has never wavered, though. While it is nearly impossible for him to get the original C10 back into his possession, Albores has continued the legacy through the cars he owns

Welcome Graffiti 2022

PROVIDING QUALITY PRODUCTS FOR THE REFINISH INDUSTRY

Automotive & Industrial Paint and Equipment Axalta Coating Systems Formerly

Stockton Turlock Modesto We want to say “Thank You” You” to all of our Loyal Customers and Friends for their patronage and support during the last 30 years. It is truly a pleasure doing business in the heart of the Central Valley, home to “American Graffiti”

The Baker Family

Modesto 1507 9th St. Stockton 3200 N. West Lane Turlock 452 S. Center St. GRAFFITI

209-523-1099 209-933-1099 209-634-4966 8

MAY 2022

M-F 8-5 M-F 8-5 M-F 8-5

today. He currently owns a 1964 Chevy C10 fleetside short-bed and an original 1971 GMC K5 Jimmy.

“C10s and K5s are my passion,” he said. “The scene is filled with cool trucks but even better people.

Everyone in the scene appreciates the trucks and blazers. It’s all love and no one is out judging and critiquing your truck.”

As Albores referred to, not all cars are the same. He explained that cars can allow owners to express themselves in unique ways.

“A truck or car can be a reflection of you,” he said. “From the color you choose to paint it to the wheels you put on it.”

Albores tries to work on every aspect of his car excluding body and paint work. He spoke about some of the recent upgrades he had made to

his 1971 Jimmy.

“I actually just finished swapping the old 350/350 in my ‘71 K5 Jimmy and installed a 5.3/4l60e with a BTR Truck Norris, giving it a little more horse and chop chop,” Albores joked.

He has shown off his trucks at a number of local shows. Last year, his recently sold 1972 Jimmy won an award at the C10 Intervention. The award has afforded the vehicle the honor to be featured on this year’s event shirt.

Albores hopes to watch the C10 community continue to grow. He and his group of truck friends recently launched a new Instagram page, @ C10Junkeez, for C10 and Blazer content. He also encourages everyone to follow his Instagram page, @ Dextreous, for behind-the-scenes looks at some of his projects. ●

Local Families Trust Astoria as been g in Oakdale h in iv L r io n e S a “Astori he staff r three years. T fo ily m fa y m f a part o mom uly care about tr y e th d n a l u is cheerf very commodate e c a y e h T . ily m and my fa e r Living with th io n e S a ri o st A need. I trust , recious to me p st o m e th is person who

OAKDALE LEADER ESCALON TIMES • RIVERBANK NEWS

my mother!”

Barbara — resident. r of an Astoria e b m e m ily m fa

RCFE #507005604

(209) 322-2292

| 700 Laurel Ave, Oakdale CA | www.AstoriaSeniorLiving.com GRAFFITI

9

MAY 2022

2022 GRAFFITI

Central Valley Early Iron Car Club

By VINCE REMBULAT

T

oday, they drive around in hot rods, classics and muscle cars. While most are now for show, those in the Central Valley Early Iron Car Club remembered once upon time when cars were a big part of their lives.

Larry Harris, for one, had fond memories of his 1960 Chevy Impala.

On those memorable evenings, he and others of his generation would cruise from the bowling alley in Manteca, driving along Yosemite Avenue to Foster’s Freeze, just west of Walnut Avenue.

That was in 1966 when the population of Manteca was about 12,000.

“We were a small town back then,” said Harris, 72, a 1968 graduate of Manteca High.

Memories of those days can be found on

side of a business in the 100 block of North Main Street – “Cruising Manteca,” completed in 2013, was created by Dave Gordon and commissioned by the Manteca Mural Society, depicting that time in 1950s and ‘60s.

Not too long ago, Harris bought another 1960 Chevy Impala. The guy who previously owned it ran out of money in trying to restore the car.

Harris managed to restore “every nut and bolt” of that Chevy, and has showcased at some of the recent car shows.

He’s been with Central Valley Early Iron since its inception in 2000. The local car club was originally called Nuts & Bolts of Manteca.

The name-change came about 12 years ago.

“We all live and breathe hot rods, classics and muscle cars,” Harris said. “We have a lot

GRAFFITI

of talented members. We all share in helping another member work on their cars – just a bunch of great guys.”

About a handful of members are active with some belonging to two or three other car clubs.

“We are a family club,” said Harris, who noted that all are welcome to the Central Valley Early Iron Car Club meetings and Wednesday morning breakfasts held at the Manteca VFW Hall Post 6311, 5680 Moffat Blvd.

“This is how all of the members started with our club – you have breakfast with us and you’re in the club. There’s no entry fees or no annual fees,” said Harris.

For that matter, there are no officers. Yet those involved will often volunteer to do

10

MAY 2022

different projects.

Included are the numerous car shows, including one for the last four years in the grassy area next to the local VFW hall.

As for the turnout?

“We’ll get approximately 120 (people) show up. We (also) have a lot of help in putting this on, from the members their wives along with some of their children,” Harris said.

As a non-profit, the Central Valley Early Iron Club will conduct fundraisers. Proceeds from their events will go towards purchasing bicycle helmets and toys. Last year, the group made enough to donate to Toys for Tots while handing out 106 bikes to those in need.

Log on to Facebook and click on to Central Valley Early Iron Car Club to check out the car club’s latest endeavors. ●

Thank You FOR VOTING US

BEST BAIL BOND COMPANY IN THE 209 TWO YEARS IN A ROW!

“I’ve Got Your Back”

#1833629 “ Joanna is very professional and will treat someone accused of a crime with respect. I work with several bail agencies and Joanna is one of my favorites.

Thank you Joanna! ”

• • • • •

Open 24/7 Free Bail Consultation Free Warrant Checks Public Notary Free For All Clients Best Customer Service In The Industry

- Tai B.

Habla Espanol

www.joannasbailbonds.com

(209) 527-0911 (209) 404-4269 1202 H St. Ste E. Modesto

GRAFFITI

11

MAY 2022

2022 GRAFFITI

Graffiti USA Museum ready to wow classic car fans

By KRISTINA HACKER

T

he longtime dream of having a yearround tribute to the movie that cemented Modesto in cruising history is now a reality. The Graffiti USA Classic Car Museum is open to the public and becoming a big part of the Graffiti community.

“Many, many years of work is starting to come together,” said museum board member Chris Murphy.

Currently, the downtown Modesto museum is open during limited hours, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Fridays and Saturdays for self-guided tours and private events, but that is just the beginning.

Located at 610 9th St., the 45,000 square-foot former Warden’s Office building is the perfect place for the tribute to all things Graffiti. It is located less than a mile from the original Burge’s Drive In, which was the traditional turning point of the Modesto cruise in the late 1950s and 60s.

When the museum is completely finished, it will be an immersive experience that will include a replica of downtown Modesto storefronts circa

1940s-1960, a working radio station, classic 1950s diner and a record store, alongside the exhibits and memorabilia on automotive and Modesto history.

Of course, the real features of the museum are the classic automobiles on exhibit. Visitors who fall in love with a particular classic car or truck on display may also get the chance to take it home, as the museum is now also a dealership.

“We’re scouring the globe looking for classic cars,” said Murphy.

Some of the cars for sale are donated and the profits will help keep the museum running, while others are being sold on consignment. Either way, it means more classic cars for visitors to enjoy while in town for the annual Graffiti Festival events or anytime during the year.

Along with getting exhibits and other features up and running, the museum is involved with events in the community, including hosting an open house on June 4 and sponsoring the Walk of Fame induction of Mackenzie Phillips (who play Carol Morrison in “American Graffiti) from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. on June 8 at the 10th Street

sidewalk marker.

“We’re starting to introduce the museum to the community in a variety of ways,” said Murphy.

The museum is operated by an eight-person board of directors and a council of advisors. The museum is still fundraising to help make the entire vision come to fruition. Local businesses have already donated over $500,000 in services

and over $500,000 in donations toward the $4.2 million plan. There are exclusive naming opportunities for the founders that invest to make this dream real, according to Murphy.

Learn more about the museum or being a donor at www.graffitiusamuseum.com and contact the team at info@graffitiusamuseum.com. ●

COMPASSIONATE CANINE CARE AND EDUCATION

DAYCARE • TRAINING • BOARDING GROOMING • BOW WOW BOUTIQUE

TURLOCK and MODESTO LOCaTIONS “Where dogs come to stay and play!”

TURLOCK 209.656.1960 | MODESTO 209.523.3138 | TOPNOTCHDOGS.COM GRAFFITI

12

MAY 2022

2832 Health Care Way Modesto, CA 95356

GRAFFITI

13

MAY 2022

SIGNATURE INDEPENDENT LIVING

(209) 437-8268

2022 GRAFFITI

Family and love of cars keep Impalas Car Club alive

By PAWAN NAIDU

I

n the summer of 1990, four friends decided to start up a car club. Robby Quisol, along with his brother Sonny, and friends Bubba and Phillip, served as the founding members of this aptly named club. This name came easy to the four men, who all carried keys for the same make of automobile; the legendary Chevy Impala.

The Impalas Car Club was born, and the initial chapter was called Nor Cal to represent a broader area, even though all of the members were from San Jose. The club’s foundation was based on one common principle, a principle which it still adheres to today; every member must own an Impala.

About two months into the venture, Phillip and his family moved to Colorado. This is about the time that Pete “Kiki” Rodriguez came into the fold. Kiki’s motivational skills and dedication served as a driving force behind the club’s success.

Rodriguez founded the Modesto chapter in the late 90s when he moved his family from San Jose to the Valley in favor of a better cost of living. Many other people followed suit during this time period, and the area bubbled with fellow Lowrider enthusiasts. Rodriguez, along with Tony “Bones” Torres and Martin Carranza, started a chapter that is now one of Impalas’ largest, with a membership upwards of 30 members.

“I remember going to my first meeting and not making it,” said Saul Cordova. “I blew my engine due to a careless mistake on my part,

and I called Kiki to let him know what had happened. I told him I would probably be down for a while now and being in a car club without a car just didn’t seem right. The next day, he called me and told me to get a truck because he found an engine. The following weekend, we drove to San Jose to pick up a motor from another member, and my ride was up and running in a week. That was the turning point for me, and membership was not only mandatory, but also a no-brainer because of the help and love that was directed towards me by the family.”

Now with 20 years under the club’s collective belt, the founding members are in awe of what has transpired. Most of them only figured that the club would last a few years, before ultimately fading out as most things do with time. Thanks to the family bond that this club has, and the commitment of its members, fading away will never be an option for the Impalas. Family is the one thing that really bonds the club together, and Impalas works hard to ensure that this focus is never lost.

“The Impalas are also doing their part to help rid the stereotypes that plague all Lowriders in general,” said Cordovo. “That destructive stereotype that we’re all gang members or drug dealers, and that’s how we get the money to build our cars has haunted our culture for decades. In reality, this couldn’t be further from the truth. There is a lot of blood, sweat and tears that go into building a nice ride.”

GRAFFITI

The club also tries to do their part with local schools by helping to organize small car shows for the kids and their parents, as well as by holding fundraisers to raise money for

14

MAY 2022

school supplies. Donating turkeys at Thanksgiving, and giving toys to needy families during Christmas are tasks that this club also actively participates in. ●

MASRA to host 2022 Graffiti Classic

By SABRA STAFFORD

T

he Modesto Area Street rod Association will host the Graffiti Summer kickoff car show at McHenry Village from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 5.

MASRA began in 1975 among a small group of men and woman who had a shared bond of classic cars and cruising. At first, club members drove pre-1949 street rods and as time passed the membership grew to include pre-1973 classic cars.

This year’s show will have more than 500 vintage automobiles and hot rods, along with some special interest vehicles.

The show this year will also have a special designated area for Mustangs, dubbed the Mustang Corral. it is only open to Ford Mustangs and will be limited to 50 vehicles.

The association will present each of these owners with a complimentary custom designed Mustang T- shirt. Two trophies will be awarded, one for 1964 ½ to 1973 year models and one for 1974 to present year models. ● For more information about the association, visit http://modestoareastreetrod.com.

DMV Services DMV Services Smog

Smog • Title Transfers Title Transfers Vin Verification Vin Verification RV’s, Trailers, RV’s, Trailers, Boats, ATV’s

Boats, ATV’s Total maintenance & repair for your vehicle Total maintenance & repair for your vehicle

133 N.133 Sixth Avenue, Oakdale N. Sixth Avenue, Oakdale 209-847-0178 209-847-0178

GRAFFITI

15

MAY 2022

2022 GRAFFITI

The Need

For Speed

By SABRA STAFFORD

T

his is certainly one truism when it comes to Dennis Clark and automobiles - he likes them to have some power and go fast. It was true when he was a young man working and residing in Oakland and is true now for the 81-year-old Newman resident.

That need for speed drew Clark to purchase a brand new Pontiac GTO straight off the factory line in Detroit in 1964 and why the very same car claims a spot of honor in his garage 58 years later.

“I could have gotten one in Fremont, but I wanted all the stuff that would make it go faster,” Clark said.

Clark first saw what the GTO was capable

of at a drag race.

“I used to do a lot of drag racing and I saw how they performed on the drag strip and it impressed me,” Clark said. “There’s a lot of people who say it was the first muscle car and there’s some who don’t. It’s really a matter of opinion and in mine, I say it was the first.”

Back then, the registration cost Clark $31.

Now it’s up to $184.

“One of the reasons I have kept this car all this time is because I have heard so many guys say ‘I wish I would have kept my first car. I wish I could get it back,’” Clark said.

Clark estimates he has done about 90 percent of the work on the car over the years, and everything that was mechanical based.

“Anything to do with mechanics, I have replaced, from engine, transmission, drive line, rear end, ball joints, the whole front end,” Clark said. “The car came with a 389 cubic inch engine. the way I have it fixed right now, it’s a 461 cubic inches. It came with 335 horsepower and i’d say now it’s 500, 525. Like I say, I’m an old drag racer that never grew up. I just don’t get into trouble anymore.”

Clark has won several prizes and awards at car shows, which he enjoys displaying. But the real blessing of the vehicle is the time he spent working on it, especially when his sons joined him and later when they purchased their own classic cars to refurbish.

“I never thought about this at the time, but

GRAFFITI

I can say that I never lost them. Most kids at 15 or 16 don’t want to be around their mom or dad, and they can drift away for a few years, sometimes even permantently. But we shared a common interest,” Clark said. “It wasn’t done for that reason. I just wanted to give them some mechanical experience. But

16

MAY 2022

now I can look back and say that I never lost them.

Clark still takes the Pontiac to various car shows and always comes home with some new award. He likes to take it out for drives around town and if the opportunity arises, he still likes to drive fast. ●

2022 GRAFFITI

Graffiti exhibit opens for summer

By SABRA STAFFORD

K

ruse Lucas Art Gallery is hosting a Graffiti Car Art Exhibit to celebrate the Graffiti parade and and all the classic car

shows.

The exhibit will feature the photography work of Rick Raef. Raef began photographing local Graffiti events to capture the celebration of California’s car culture.

Raef ’s interest in photography truly started to take shape in 2009, when he decided to capture some of the images and scenery he saw routinely out on his ranch. In 2012 he met noted western photographer Dave Stoecklein and attended several of his photography classes. Since then Raef has photographed numerous working cattle and sheep ranches in the western United States and has been published in several western and Ag related publications.

Raef ’s work will be on exhibit June, July and August at 525 Tully Road, Modesto The gallery is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays except holidays. For more information call (209) 529-9111. ●

HELP US

PREVENT MOSQUITOES! Call the District for Mosquitofish used in

WATER TROUGHS, NEGLECTED POOLS AND WATER FEATURES.

REPORT TO THE DISTRICT: • Large amounts of mosquitoes • Report neglected swimming pools Yellow Fever Mosquito

Asian Tiger Mosquito

• Daytime biting mosquitoes around the home

Stay Safe, Stay Informed!

• Dump and Drain any Standing Water • When outdoors, use EPA registered repellents like DEET, Picaridin or IR3535 • Make sure windows and doors have tight fitting screens

Call (209) 634-1234

OR

GRAFFITI

visit us at www.turlockmosquito.org to report mosquitoes or for more information.

17

MAY 2022

2022 GRAFFITI

Westside Auto Club keeps traditions alive

By SABRA STAFFORD

B

ack in the late 1940s, it was not uncommon for the country roads out in Newman and Gustine to be the scene of many a drag race, as Westsiders strove to see whose car was the fastest. Out of that need for speed, the Westside Auto Club was born.

Started in 1948 by six men, the Westside Auto Club is one of the older car clubs in the region. It now has a membership of 35 classic car enthusiasts who are more likely to host charitable car shows than country drag races.

Don Gomes has been the president

Since 1971 Commercial • Residential Installation • Repairs

of the club for several years. Most of the members come from Newman, Gustine, Patterson, Crows Landing and Turlock, but membership is open to anyone in the Central Valley.

When the opportunity arises, the club likes to gather for meet ups or mini cruises in Newman and Gustine.

The club’s most popular event is their Linguica Run, which returns for it’s 41st year on July 10 at Henry Miller Park in Gustine. The event features a large car show, prizes, music, games and activities and a linguica lunch. There is expected to be more than 300 vehicles at the show.

Gomes said the popularity of the

Linguica Run is due in large part to the family friendly, old-school atmosphere at the car show, along with the Portuguese lunch, which reflects the shared ancestry of many of the members.

The show is open to pre-1999 vehicles and special interest motorcycles. Gates open at 7:30 a.m. and registration starts at 8 a.m. at the park’s gazebo. The linguica lunch is served at noon and includes beans, salad and bread.

Entrants can pre-register before July 5 for $45. The registration includes a T-shirt (up to first 75 entrants) a dash plaque, a goodie bag and two meal tickets.

A Work of Art...

Your Floor.

The Premier Flooring Showroom There’s nothing like it anywhere.

SHOWROOM HOURS: Monday-Friday 8:00AM-5:00PM Or By Appointment

209-491-0310

5170 Pentecost Dr. Ste. 1 Modesto, CA 95356

Hardwood • Carpet • Area Rugs • Hard Surface

GRAFFITI

18

MAY 2022

Registration after July 5 is $50 and includes the dash plaque, goodie bag and the two free meal tickets.

Entrants’ children under 8 years old eat free at the event.

Meal tickets are $12.

The proceeds from the Linguica Run are used for auto shop acholarships at

Orestimbam Gustine, Patterson and Hilmar high schools. It routinely provides scholarships to students pursuing jobs and careers in the automotive, machinery and agricultural industries.

The proceeds also go toward the club’s charitable donations to Toys for Tots, Comforting Kids and local food banks.

Individuals interested in learning more about the Westside Auto Club or becoming a member can follow them at https:// www.facebook.com/Westside-AutoClub-136069073133258/. For more information on registration for the Linguica Run call Don Gomes at (209) 765-1273. ●

STEWART & JASPER IS PROUD TO BE A PART OF MODESTO’S

GRAFFITI SUMMER STOP IN TO OUR STORE JUNE 5TH

ENJOY FREE SAMPLES AND SPECIALS ON BEER & WINE ALL DAY! Visit Our Modesto Company Store in McHenry Village Open Monday-Tuesday 11am-7pm Wednesday -Saturday 11am-8pm • Closed Sunday

1700 McHenry Ave., Suite 58 • (209) 577-NUTS Newman

3500 Shiells Road

(209) 862-0555 GRAFFITI

19

MAY 2022

Patterson

2985 Renzo Ln., Suite D

(209) 895-9463

2022 GRAFFITI

‘One Night in Memphis’ for one night at Gallo O

By SABRA STAFFORD

ne Night in Memphis,” a rock concert tribute to some of the pioneers of rock and roll will be performed at the Gallo Center for the Arts in Modesto at 7:30 p.m. June 10.

The show, created and originally directed by John Mueller, is a tribute to legendary Sun Records recording artists Carl Perkins, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Elvis Presley.

The show is over 90 minutes of rockabilly, country, gospel and pure 1950’s rock and roll music performed live and backed by an authentic and energetic rockabilly backup band. The show features hits like “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” “Great Balls of Fire,” “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Going On,” “Shake, Rattle and Roll,” “Don’t Be Cruel,” “Hound Dog,” and many more.

The show takes it’s title from Dec.

4, 1956, when Elvis Presley, Carl Perkins, Jerry Lee Lewis and Johnny Cash all participated in a recording session at Sun Records. The night began with Perkins, who had booked the studio for a recording session. Sam Phillips, the genius behind Sun Records, had booked Lewis to play piano for the session.

After recording a few songs, the perfomers took a break and during that time Cash and Presley both arrived at the studios. A jam session started, that unbeknownest to them was being recorded.

Sam Phillips had a moment of inspiration to invite down a reporter and a photographer and the session was described the following day as the “million dollar quartet.”

The show is expected to sell out at the Gallo. The tickets that remain (as of May 25) range from $29 to $49 and can be purchased by visiting galloarts.org. ●

One order of happiness coming right up! to ouR loyal CustomeRs FoR voting us b est i nteRnet s eRviCe p RovideR

-ServingBUSINESS & RESIDENTIAL Customers

2021

NO CONTRACTS • NO HIDDEN FEES • LOCAL SUPPORT

Reliable inteRnet at blazing Fast speed!

C all

ayera.com

oR visit us online today !

Bakery & Deli • Gift Shop • Handcrafted Cider • Barnyard Playground • Mini Train Ride • Full Breakfast & Lunch

coversappleranch.com

the valley ’s FAVORITE INTERNET!

19211 Cherokee Road, Tuolumne, CA

209-928-4689

209.579.3000 GRAFFITI

20

MAY 2022

GRAFFITI

21

MAY 2022

2022 GRAFFITI

By SABRA STAFFORD

A

pompadour and a T-shirt with rolled sleeves. Pin curls and a fit-n-flare dress. The Greasers are ready for a night out. But for this social club, being a Greaser is about more than the clothes and hair. It’s about keeping a culture alive.

“The whole purpose of our group is to keep the past alive the 1950s retro vibe, the classics,” said Jessi Pham, the president of the Greasers Social Club World Wide CentCal. “We just try and keep the 1950s, rockabilly aspect current and alive.”

The Greasers Social Club was founded in 2011 by Tony Reina as a promotional business to bring more rockabilly bands to Las Vegas. The logo and shirts printed up for the business proved to be popular and demand for them started to grow. The social club aspect came about when he heard a few guys in Texas had used the logo to make some shirts. Rather

car shows, pin-up pageants, and concerts. And if no event is happening, there’s a pretty good chance that the members are hanging out at Trevino’s Barber Shop and Shave Parlor, owned by club member and rockabilly musician Tony Trevino.

“We like to keep a lot of our events family-friendly so everyone can come out and have fun,” Pham said. “Plus we want to plant that seed with the younger ones to keep it going.”

Some may be drawn to the social club for the music, others for the classic cars, and others for the style and fashion.

For Pham, the retro style reminded her of her grandmother, who was in the beauty business and was the “Beehive queen,” Pham said.

Pham already had an interest in the pin-up style, with the defined hairstyles and femme fatale fashion, when she was introduced to the Central Valley Greasers Social Club.

“I love the elegance of the pin-up girl like Marilyn Monroe or Bettie Page, because it’s timeless and so beautiful,” Pham said.

For those interested in learning more about the club or joining, follow them at https://www.facebook.com/ GSCWWCentCal/ ●

than start some legal proceeding, Reina saw an opportunity to start a social club and since then clubs have been started all over the world.

The Greasers Social Club World Wide CentCal chapter began seven years ago and the tie-in with Modesto’s celebration of “American Graffiti” was a natural fit. The club hosts

GRAFFITI

22

MAY 2022

N

For room reservations, please call

oble Motorsports has been serving the Modesto Area for over 20 17 years. We offer full line of accessories for all your vehicle needs. Whether you want a full build on your ride or just want to dress your car with some wheels and tires. Here at Noble we do it all. We are a one stop shop for all your automotive needs. We have qualified techs on site as well as our top notch sales team to answer all of your questions.

Stop by today and you won’t be disappointed.

(209) 526-6000 Modesto.DoubleTree.com https://bit.ly/3FUOdgb 1150 Ninth Street Modesto, California 95354 Book your stay by scaning the QR code.

Work, Play or Show Noble is the place to go!

Authorized Snugtop Dealer

Top Quality Service with a Touch of Class

We also offer:

Wheel and tire packages • Lifting and lowering of vehicles Complete tow packages • 5th wheels and goosenecks Tool Boxes and Lumber Racks Camper Shells and hard or soft tonneau covers Full line accessories of all vehicles • RV accessories

Let us help turn your house into a home!

CALL FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE

Mon-Fri 8:30 - 5 • Closed Sat & Sun 2 Locations to Serve You

209-838-8278 www.1stclassbs.com

3536 McHenry Ave Suite A, Modesto

You Can Also Request a Quote by Text (209) 606-1559 GRAFFITI

1406 W Olive Ave, Merced

209 575-5005 209 385-2213 www.noblemotosports.net

23

MAY 2022

2022 GRAFFITI

Tribute Artist Is All Shook Up

By TERESA HAMMOND

R

ob Ely has mastered the art of the pivot. A term made popular during the pandemic, Ely has fully embraced it.

Currently a junk hauler and Realtor by day, it is his talent as an Elvis tribute performer for which he is known best. Ely owns Junk Hauler, as well as works as a Realtor for ReMax Modesto; careers he pursued as a result of the pandemic.

“Before the pandemic I was slammed,” he said of his success as an Elvis performer. “It was full time; all I did was music. I could pay my mortgage, my car payment, support my family.”

The performer noted his phone began “blowing up” with cancellations as venues were cancelling any live performances during the height of the COVID shutdown. Ely shared he began brainstorming and researching businesses which were doing well, even thriving. Discovering junk removal as a viable business and with a background in property clean up during the foreclosure years, it seemed a no brainer business for him. At the same time, he also decided to pursue his real estate license.

“My wife’s always been in real estate, so I’ve always been around real estate agents,” Ely said.

And while the two new ventures may be paying the bills, his love of music and Elvis remain ever present as he anticipates things beginning to open back up.

“Coming out of the pandemic is still a bit hit or miss by way of bookings and events resuming,” he said.

Residing with his family in the 209, Ely spent a good number of years providing for them singing about Blue Suede Shoes and Hound Dogs. It is a career he fell into with his twin brother Mike back in the mid-‘90s.

Simply singing in bar parking lots, knocking back a few beers, the duo gained a following in the San Jose area. At the invitation of their mother, a few years later they found themselves driving to the 209 to perform each Monday night at Red Lobster. Slowly that too grew and in time “Double Take,” the twin brother band was the regular act at the once popular Early Dawn.

“I grew up on Elvis, so we threw in some of that. Early Elvis ‘50s stuff,” Ely shared of the Red Lobster days, noting the playlist is a bit different for the club crowd.

With no formal training, yet bitten by the entertainment bug, Ely aspired to make a living performing music. After a year of fulltime work at Early Dawn, Double Take decided to put a band back together and return its focus to ‘50s and Elvis.

Ely said the combination of older band members and the classic music not only had a more popular draw, but also brought in more bookings and more money. Eventually he and his brother brought the Elvis Tribute to the show, with Ely sneaking off stage and returning as Elvis for 15 minutes of the set.

In time the brothers found their own individual niche and Ely dove full on into the Elvis World.

“I started doing contests and doing really well,” he said. “I was just a novice.

I would watch these guys in Branson (Missouri) and a couple of big names on YouTube when I was first starting out. They were doing real well in the contests and making good money, a couple thousand dollars prize for a contest.”

Over the course of 16 years, Ely has traveled all over the country both performing, as well as competing in Elvis competitions. One, however, which sparked his interest the most was hosted by Elvis Presley Enterprises. The top tribute performer from contests hosted around the world would be flown to Nashville for Elvis Week and given the opportunity to perform/compete in front of their judges.

After coming up second in several, Ely earned a First Place nod in 2013 at a Laughlin, Nevada competition and went on to Graceland. He refers to that as his “Banner Year of Elvis.”

Nine years later he is still just as committed and passionate about the rock ‘n roll legend.

“Great music, first and foremost,” he said when asked what it is that keeps people still drawn to the legendary performer.

“His voice was like no other voice. But I think for the older generation it’s because he was the first to do it. The first to come out and rock the stage. The energy, the moving around; for girls it was their first love. It’s like John Lennon said: Before Elvis there was nothing.”

Continuing with his appreciation for the late artist, Ely mentions an Elvis movie which will be released this summer and hopes that it opens the eyes of the younger generation on what a true talent Elvis was.

As for performing like the legend himself, Ely said it was a commitment he took seriously from the start.

“I really took a lot of pride in preparation.

I practiced a lot,” he said. “Strengthened the muscles in my voice and my throat. It was a lot of trial and error.”

Now with thousands of events behind him, he gets a little tripped up to name a favorite song. After 16 years his answers vary from what he favored in the beginning to what he enjoys now.

“People, they really stop when I sing the power ballads,” he said, “like in a theater it just gets quiet, a dead quiet.”

As for the venue he enjoys to perform in most, just like the legend, Ely refers to the crowd.

“If the crowd is into it, it doesn’t matter where I’m at,” he said.

“The ones you get where the people actually buy tickets and they’re coming to see Elvis and an Elvis show, I’ve had full theaters and it just erupts with every song.”

To learn more about upcoming events where Ely may be performing visit his Facebook page: Rob Ely-Elvis Tribute Artist. If interested in his business visit junkbattlers.com ● GRAFFITI

24

MAY 2022

car shows in the 209 Stockton Elks Car Show The Stockton Elks will host a car show from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. June 19 at the Elks Lodge 218 at 8900 Thornton Road in Stockton. The show is open to cars and trucks from any year and is limited to 75 vehicles. Entry for participants is $35 and includes lunch, a dash plaque and a goodie bag. Spectator admission is free. Food and drinks will be available for purchase. For more information call (209) 992-0485 or (209) 951-5026.

Memory Lane Car Show The 7th Annual Galt Area Historical Society Drive Down Memory Lane Car Show will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 27 at the McFarland Living History Ranch at 8899 Orr Road in Galt.

It is open to 1970 vehicles or older. Admission is $5 each or a family pack of 5 for $20. For information contact galthistoricalsociety@ gmail.com or (209) 730-3127.

Rod and Custom Car Show The Modesto Elks 1282will host their 14th annual Rod and Custom Car Show from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 26 at the Elks Lodge at 645 Charity Way in Modesto. Participants can enter at 7 a.m.

The cost is $30 for pre-registration or $35 for day of the event.

Participants are given a free colossal hot dog, chips and drink (two per entry). Spectators get free entry and food and drinks are available for purchase. Breakfast is available from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. for $10. The show is open to cars, trucks and motorcycles from all years. It’s an air-conditioned show with a covered patio. For more information email bmiller.elks1282@gmail.com.

Viclas and Lowriders Car Show The 3rd Annual Viclas and Lowriders Car Show and Concert is set for 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. May 29 at 217 Daly Avenue in Modesto. Pre-registration is $25 and Viclas bike registration is $20. A donation of $5 is requested for attendees. For more information and registration call (209) 809-1527.

Funky Market 209 Summer Fest and Car Show The Funky Market 209 Summer Fest and Car Show will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 4 at Kerr Park 840 N. Sterns Road in Oakdale. The outdoor festival features classic cars, vendors, music and food.

50s Roadhouse Car Show The 50s Roadhouse Restaurant in Knights Ferry is hosting a classic car show and 50s festival from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. June 4. Proceeds from the event will benefit local veterans. The restaurant is located at 18341 Kennedy Road in Knights Ferry. Tickets are $35. Send email to 50sroadhouseclassic@gmail.com or call/text at (209) 402-6167 for more information.

Cruise on in for Great Food and Fun! Soft Serve Burgers Chili Dogs Sandwiches

1841 Yosemite Avenue, Modesto Online ordering www.snowhiteburgers.com 209-529-3032 GRAFFITI

Shakes Fries Onion Rings

Highway 108 / 3442 Atchison Street, Riverbank Online Ordering www.snowhitefood.com 209-869-6833 25

MAY 2022

2022 GRAFFITI

Once a Faro, Always a Faro Editor’s Note: This story originally ran in 2018.

A

car club, fraternity, or just a group of guys who wanted to hang out, whatever way you want to remember them, they will always be known as Faros. Cruising, dragging, looking for girls, beer, parties, community activities all were part of the experience of being a Faro back in the day.

Although the “American Graffiti” movie gave the club some fame and was based on the actual Faros club in Modesto, the name of the club in the movie was Pharaohs. They were depicted as bad boys in the movie and some members believe the movie to be spot on with a few others not so much.

Club member Joe Wylie said that there were two beginnings of the Faros. In 1957, Modesto High School students John Husband, Chuck Billington and a few others discussed the idea of a car club, creating the name Faros, the FRS crest and membership cards. Lasting about two weeks, the Dean of Boys at the school heard about this plan and nullified it with the warning that if they

James, Larry Baker, brothers Chris and Wayne Ludvickson, and Ron Goncalves. Billington informed the group that he had the 1957 membership cards with the name Faros on them so they decided to stay with that name and save a few

continued they would be expelled.

Three years later in August 1960, seven guys collaborated on Edgebrook Drive in Modesto to make the original idea of the Faros a reality. The seven guys were: Wylie, Dennis Billington, Harry

By VIRGINIA STILL bucks. They had weekly meetings with about 20 to 25 guys in attendance in the early days.

The club grew quickly with members added like Darrell Bailey, Daryl Weitl, Larry Landis, Larry Williams, Al Schaeffer, Harold Bowen, Jerry Jackman, Don Podesto, John VanNostrand, Jay Salter, Don Bradley, Rick Hudson, Adolf Mauksch, Steve Roberts, Johnny Mercer, Ron Pippin, Steve Martin, Bill Fliflet, and Bruce Schafer.

To become a Faro, members had to vote you in and they had to go through an initiation that varied over the years.

“Several early members soon went off to honor our country in Vietnam, some went away to college, and others married and started families,” said Wylie. “Membership required a 100 percent vote and on occasion, someone was not allowed membership by just one ‘no’ vote of a current Faro.”

“In 1961 we had ‘FAROS MODESTO’ car plaques made and that started our transition from a fraternity to a car club,” added Bailey. “Most of us had cars and we didn’t do anything different but the plaques gave us a lot of notoriety.”

“Cruising was a fun evening activity enjoyed by many when gasoline was less than 50 cents a

VINYL FENCE & BUILDING PRODUCTS, INC.

DURABLE, LOW MAINTENANCE FENCING, PATIO COVERS AND GAZEBOS

1113 CARVER ROAD, MODESTO

(209) 892-5729 • (209) 846-9457

1020 10th St Downtown Modesto

VINYLFENCEMODESTO.COM GRAFFITI

26

MAY 2022

209.557.9711 www.Fuzio.com

gallon,” said Weitl. “We were just a bunch of teenagers who hung out together and did typical teen things.”

Joining the Faros in the late ‘60s, Jackman was blackballed during his first attempt to join the club.

“I was fascinated with the evolving engines and transmissions of the new cars and loved hot rods,” said Jackman. “I read all the car magazines each month as they arrived at our family grocery store, Paradise Market. However, my folks discouraged my felt need for speed by buying a 40 horsepower 1960 VW beetle for me to drive to MJC. It had four on the floor so I perfected the speed shift. I have actually never owned a custom car, other than the 1962 Austin Healey which I’ve owned since 1969. It is my garage queen.”

“My initiation took place on a cold, foggy, damp winter night,” said Martin. “Everyone knows how friggin’ cold the foggy winter nights can be in Motown. That said, a few of us initiates jumped into the back of a pickup truck and were driven from the Faros meeting place to Del Rio. We sneaked onto the golf course and found one of the waterholes. Stripped down to our skivvies and dived for golf balls. Once we found one, we navi-

gated back to the truck, jumped in and headed back … soaking wet. Even as cold as it was, it was a fun night.”

“When I was initiated, I had to swim for golf balls at nighttime and had a mud bath in Dry Creek,” said Schafer. “Cruising and racing from light to light on 10th and 11th streets was great fun. I can remember going to Delta Blood Bank on a Friday afternoon to give blood. At that time they paid $5 per pint. That was enough to almost fill my ‘57 Chevy to cruise the weekend.”

“They (initiations) were quite funny but tame for the most part,” added Pippin. “Modesto was a small town even back in the early ‘70s; chances are if you got pulled over the officer knew your par-

ents. If you got caught with beer in the car at times the officer would follow you home and let your parents know. When this happened you knew you were not cruising for at least a couple of weeks.”

Remembering the McHenry cruise, Pippin explained that they would cruise from Five Points to the McHenry Village and at times “stack’m up” which meant having two cars in both lanes cruising about five miles per hour stacking up traffic for blocks.

“Funny thing is everybody loved it for the most part,” added Pippin. “You could visit with the car next to you while cruising. Our place to race was the east side mosquito abatement runway. We would position a car at Parker Road and one at

Milnes Road; if the sheriff came they would flash their lights and we would scatter.”

At a 50-year reunion a few of the club members reunited and talked about reviving the club. Weitl, Billington, Schaeffer, Jackman, James and Bailey met up a few months later in Tahoe for a weekend and decided to get the Faros back together. They came up with a list of club members and started adding in more names as time went along.

The Faros Car Club was inducted into the Cruising Walk of Fame in June 2016. They were given a framed certificate and a plaque with their name that was placed in the sidewalk on 10th Street between J and K streets in Modesto, which was very close to where the guys hung out back in their prime.

There have been no new members since 1973 when the club disbanded with about 155 members. Some of the members began to get together for lunch and meet once a month for lunch.

“At this time we are not a formal club; we are just a group of guys who were in the Faros back in the ‘60s,” expressed Bailey. “We like to say ‘once a Faro, always a Faro’.” ●

ENJOY YOUR RIDE. SHOW IT. DRIVE IT. LOVE IT. We collect classic cars, so we understand the nuances of

your insurance needs. Your policy needs unique coverages that standard car insurance providers just don’t understand.

Insure your collector car with us, and enjoy your ride.

STA R T YO U R Q U O T E TO DAY AT

Turlock | Livingston | Modesto info@wisg.com | wisg.com | 800.790.4875 p.o. box 3277 turlock, ca 95381 lic. #0596517

WisgColleCtorCars.Com GRAFFITI

27

MAY 2022

OUR STORY IS SIMPLE...

THE PUREST OF DIAMONDS AND MASTER-CRAFTSMANSHIP

Thank you for voting us number one in fine jewelry

111 East Main Street

Downtown Turlock GRAFFITI

28

vailcreek.com MAY 2022

209-667-4653