Summer Dreamin' Car Show
Written by Keith Fudge

Last summer, we had the privilege to attend the 15 th Annual Summer Dreamin' Car Show. It was held in Parksville , British Columbia , Vancouver Island . It was one of the coolest events that we have ever attended! Neil Billings is the President of the Ocean Idlers Car Club, the sponsor organization for the show. Neil told Dennis that the show has grown tremendously over the past fifteen years. The first show had approximately 150 cars. However, this year's event would have more than 1,000 cars on the grounds. Neil added that participants were from several places including California, Washington, Oregon, and from many regions of Canada. Dennis commented on the great location by the beach, and Neil said the city of Parksville gives their full support and cooperation by helping with signs, parking, and allocating the park itself for the show.

Fun is the main objective of the event. Neil went on to say that this show awards more trophies than any other show in the region. In fact, he told Dennis that they would award 83 trophies in 47 categories. There are also three People's Choice trophies that would are given. Other fun activities consisted of a Poker Run where cash and prizes were awarded and a Cruise In near the beach. Later that Saturday evening, there was also a street dance. No doubt about it, this event had something for everyone. It was truly a family atmosphere. With more than 1,000 cars in the park, and with such a beautiful setting to have them, Dennis could no longer be held back. He and Neil soon headed out in the crowd to see some of these cool cars up close and personal.

First, Dennis found Kerry Johal and his slick 1968 Chevy Stepside Pickup. Kerry said that the truck was a three-year project. We could tell that it was a great undertaking. The truck was lowered, thanks to an air ride system. Cosmetically, the truck also had some tricks as well. Sporting a louvered hood painted in candy magenta with a silver base, this “Forbidden Fruit,” as the truck is appropriately named, is luscious on the inside as well. With seats covered in Italian leather, and Mercedes Benz carpet on the floor, this sweet Chevy is as cosmopolitan as it gets. Just so it can get Kerry to his destination on time, it has a Chevrolet ZZ2 502 cubic inch crate motor under the hood that delivers 500 horsepower and 600 foot pounds of torque! Since Kerry knew that plenty of people would be seeing his taillights, he upgraded to a 1999 Cadillac set that are recessed into the fenders. Kerry said that he drives the truck to shows and in the summer. Thanks, Kerry! Next, it was time to head to the wilderness as Dennis found Victor Gerwin and his 1962 Land Rover Station Wagon. Victor said that his father purchased this car in 1964 and that it has actually been to Africa . Inside the vehicle, it was just like a motorhome with beds, a table, and even a two-burner stove and broiler. Victor said that when he takes it to shows it really starts to receive attention when he “pops the top” and raises the roof. The “raised bunk” is also really cool and even has a window so the occupant has a view from above. What a cool vehicle with a great history! Later, Dennis found Bob Baker and his awesome 1957 Ford Skyliner Convertible. Bob told Dennis that he has owned the car for three years. It was “semi-done” when he purchased it. The car is the correct color of sea breeze green and features the actual tri-tone interior. Bob said that the top works just fine, and we're sure that it always commands attention when he puts it into action. Last, but certainly not least, Dennis spoke with Daniel Cyr who showed him his cool 1933 Dodge custom hot rod. Featuring a great custom paint job and wide whites on the wheels, this car is really special! Daniel told Dennis that he had always been a fan of the work of Ed “Big Daddy” Roth. He had plenty of Rat Fink memorabilia in the car to prove it. In fact, at a show several years ago, Ed Roth had even autographed the car on the glove box. Under the hood, Daniel had built a 1954 Dodge motor outfitted with Edmunds Racing parts. At the rear of the car was a sweet rumble seat, and what about that trailer? Yep, Daniel pulls the greatest little two-person trailer you can imagine. Also featuring custom paint, this little combo is just too cool for school. Thanks, Daniel! Keep on cruising.'

Everyone had a great time at the 15 th Annual Summer Dreamin' Car Show. If you want more information on this year's event, you can find them on the web at www.oceanidlers.org . That's it from beautiful Vancouver , British Columbia . So until our next visit, remember; “Honor the timeless classics. Happy Motoring!”