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Car Show

Wheels & Waves Brings Classic Car Enthusiasts Together at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum

2024-11-08

The Channel Islands Maritime Museum in Oxnard, California, recently played host to the November edition of the Wheels & Waves car show, organized by renowned automotive enthusiast Fireball Tim Lawrence. The free event, held on Sunday, November 3rd, offered a day of family-friendly fun and camaraderie for car lovers of all ages.

Connecting Car Enthusiasts and Celebrating Automotive Passion

A Vibrant Gathering of Classic Car Enthusiasts

The Wheels & Waves car show at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum was a true celebration of automotive passion. Car lovers from the local community and beyond flocked to the event, eager to share their common bond and explore the diverse array of classic and modern vehicles on display. The bright fall morning provided the perfect backdrop for this gathering of enthusiasts, who enjoyed free coffee, donuts, and the opportunity to wander through the museum's exhibits.One of the standout attractions was the 1970 Volkswagen Beetle with a sunroof, owned by Joe Vasquez and brought to the show by his son, Victor. The Vasquez family's love for Volkswagens is a testament to the enduring appeal of these iconic vehicles, with Joe having previously owned a 1960 Beetle convertible. As Victor shared, the car has undergone a transformation, with a fresh paint job and new upholstery, showcasing the dedication and care that goes into preserving these automotive treasures.

Celebrating the Diversity of the Automotive Community

Fireball Tim Lawrence, the driving force behind the Wheels & Waves event, emphasized the inclusive nature of the show, where the focus is on the people and their passion for cars, rather than the cars themselves. "If someone brings a car to the show and loves it, we love it," he said, highlighting the event's commitment to celebrating the diverse interests and personalities within the car enthusiast community.This inclusive approach was evident in the presence of Shoshanna Hnat, the Communications and Events Manager at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum, who brought her 10-year-old Great Pyrenees Anatolian Shepherd Mix, Grayson, to enjoy the festivities. Hnat's enthusiasm for the event and the museum's partnership with Wheels & Waves underscores the event's ability to bring together a wide range of individuals, united by their shared passion for all things automotive.

Promoting Automotive Education and Opportunities

The Wheels & Waves event also served as a platform to showcase the exceptional automotive education programs offered at Oxnard College. Olivia Long, the Career Education Program Specialist at the college, was on hand to discuss the diverse trade education opportunities available to students, many of which are offered at no cost thanks to the college's financial aid and support programs.Long emphasized the college's commitment to catering to students with varying skill levels, from complete novices to those with years of hands-on experience working on cars. The college's Strong Inventory Assessment Tool, which helps students identify their interests and align them with potential career paths, is just one example of the innovative approaches Oxnard College takes to ensure its students succeed in the automotive industry.

Expanding Horizons and Sharing Stories

Fireball Tim Lawrence, in addition to his role as the organizer of the Wheels & Waves event, is a multitalented individual with a diverse range of interests and projects. He shared his excitement about the upcoming premiere of his new series, "Interior Chinatown," on Hulu, as well as his upcoming appearances at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, where he will be showcasing custom cars and signing autographs.Lawrence's passion for sharing his experiences and inspiring others is evident in his desire to mentor young people and help them achieve their dreams. He reflected on the impact a mentor could have had on his own journey, and expressed his gratitude for the opportunities that have presented themselves as he has grown older. This commitment to giving back and empowering the next generation of automotive enthusiasts is a testament to Lawrence's dedication to the car community.The Wheels & Waves event at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum was a resounding success, bringing together a diverse group of car enthusiasts, educators, and industry professionals to celebrate their shared passion for all things automotive. From the classic Volkswagen Beetle to the cutting-edge custom builds, the event offered something for everyone, fostering a sense of community and inspiring the next generation of automotive enthusiasts.

In a heartfelt tribute to those who have served our nation, the Sentimental Cruisers Car Club is set to host a remarkable car and truck show in Bayville, New Jersey. This event, scheduled for November 9th, promises to be a poignant celebration of the sacrifices made by our veterans, while also showcasing a stunning array of automotive masterpieces.

Revving Up for a Cause: A Patriotic Car Show Extravaganza

A Showcase of Automotive Passion and Patriotism

The Sentimental Cruisers Car Club's Veterans Day car show is more than just a display of automotive excellence; it is a testament to the unwavering spirit of those who have defended our country. The event will feature a diverse collection of cars and trucks, spanning all years, makes, and models, each one a unique expression of the owner's passion and dedication. From classic muscle cars to sleek modern marvels, the show promises to captivate the senses of every attendee, igniting a sense of pride and appreciation for the vehicles that have become an integral part of our nation's history.As visitors stroll through the rows of meticulously maintained machines, they will be transported to a bygone era, where the roar of engines and the gleam of chrome evoke memories of simpler times. The event organizers have curated an exceptional lineup of automobiles, each one a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of their creators, and a reflection of the diverse tastes and preferences of the car enthusiast community.

A Celebration of Service and Sacrifice

At the heart of this car show lies a deeper purpose – to honor the brave men and women who have served our country. The event will serve as a poignant tribute to the sacrifices made by our veterans, providing a platform for the community to come together and express their gratitude and respect. Through the display of these magnificent vehicles, the Sentimental Cruisers Car Club aims to create a tangible connection between the automotive world and the unwavering spirit of those who have defended our nation's freedom.The Veterans Day car show will be held at the picturesque Veterans Park in Bayville, a fitting location that will further enhance the sense of reverence and patriotism that permeates the event. Attendees will have the opportunity to not only admire the stunning cars and trucks on display but also to engage with the veterans in attendance, learning about their experiences and the sacrifices they have made.

A Multifaceted Celebration of Community and Charity

In addition to the impressive car and truck showcase, the Sentimental Cruisers Car Club has curated a diverse array of activities and attractions to ensure a truly memorable experience for all who attend. Visitors can indulge in delectable food offerings, savor refreshing ice cream treats, and enjoy the lively musical performances that will fill the air.But the event's impact extends beyond mere entertainment; it also serves as a platform for charitable giving. Donations will be accepted for the local charity Vetwork, which provides vital support and resources to veterans in need. By participating in this car show, attendees will have the opportunity to directly contribute to the well-being of those who have sacrificed so much for our country.The Sentimental Cruisers Car Club's Veterans Day car show is a testament to the power of community, the enduring spirit of patriotism, and the transformative impact that a shared passion for automobiles can have. Whether you are a seasoned car enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates the rich history and cultural significance of these magnificent machines, this event promises to be a truly unforgettable experience – a celebration of our nation's heroes and the automotive marvels that have become an integral part of our collective heritage.

The annual SEMA Show is a renowned event that showcases the latest innovations and advancements in the automotive aftermarket industry. As a seasoned journalist with over a decade of experience covering this prestigious event, I had the privilege of navigating the expansive 1.2 million square feet of exhibit space, scouring through the 2,400 vendors to uncover the truly remarkable products that will captivate the hearts and minds of vehicle enthusiasts worldwide.

Elevating the Off-Road Adventure Experience

Kuat DEK Roof Rack: Blending Style and Functionality

Kuat, a renowned name in the world of vehicle rack systems, has once again raised the bar with its latest offering, the DEK roof rack system. This innovative platform rack system can be utilized on crossbars or through direct mounts, catering to a wide range of vehicle fitments, starting with the Tacoma and 4Runner. What sets the DEK apart is its custom sleek and stylish extrusions, featuring T-channels that not only offer maximum strength but also provide versatile accessory mounting options and reduce wind noise.The standout feature of the DEK rack is the optional built-in off-road lighting system, a collaboration between Kuat and Diode Dynamics. Integrating five Diode Dynamics C2 Pro LED Pods, the system delivers over 10,000 lumens of illumination in a sleek package, with the added flexibility of switching between amber and white light to suit the driving conditions. This seamless integration of lighting and rack design is a game-changer for off-road enthusiasts, providing both style and functionality.The Kuat DEK roof rack is set to hit the market in the second quarter of 2025, with pricing ranging from approximately $900 for a base unlit rack to over $2,000 for a lit, large, and direct-mounted configuration.

Cache Basecamp Pad 3.0: Transforming the Tailgate Experience

Cache, a company known for its innovative truck tailgate pads for bike transport, has unveiled the next generation of its system, the Cache Basecamp Pad 3.0. What sets this product apart is its patented lock mechanism, which secures the pad to the tailgate and provides an anchor point to lock your bikes or other gear in place. The Basecamp Pad 3.0 also features a range of accessories, including cushioned seats and a cooler, transforming the tailgate into a comfortable seating and storage solution.Crafted with durable materials, the Basecamp Pad 3.0 is designed to offer maximum protection to both the vehicle and the transported gear. The pad will be available in two sizes, with the XL size retailing for $270 and the S size for $240. The complete system, including the pad, two seats, and a cooler bag, will be priced at $370 for the XL and $340 for the S, with a presale offering available this December for early adopters.

Warn ZEON XP 14-S Winch: Redefining Off-Road Capabilities

Warn, a renowned name in the world of off-road winches, has unveiled its latest innovation, the ZEON XP line, which will replace the ZEON Platinum lineup as the top-of-the-line performance winches. The ZEON XP series boasts both wired and wireless control, an electric and a manual clutch, and LED lighting, all while being offered in a synthetic line and manufactured in Oregon.The standout product in this lineup is the ZEON XP 14-S, a new capacity addition that perfectly complements the needs of today's full-size American trucks. With a retail price of $2,720, the ZEON XP 14-S will be available starting December 12, 2024, alongside the rest of the XP lineup, providing off-road enthusiasts with a powerful and versatile winching solution.

ARB Brushless Air Compressors: Faster and More Efficient Inflation

The ARB Twin Onboard Compressor has long been the go-to air system for off-road and overland travelers, but ARB has now raised the bar with its new Brushless Air Compressor lineup. These compressors offer a 50% increase in airflow, making the airing up of large off-road tires much faster and more convenient, especially when using two- and four-way tire inflation systems.The key innovation in these new compressors is the brushless motor and associated technologies, which allow for more control over the operating parameters, resulting in enhanced airflow and improved longevity. The ARB Brushless Air Compressor Twin Onboard unit also features a sleek cam-lock-style, quick-release mount, as well as all the necessary wiring for a seamless installation.The ARB Brushless Air Compressor lineup will be available in early 2025, with the Twin Onboard unit priced at $849, the Single Onboard at $469, the Twin Portable at $1,289, and the Single Portable at $799, making it a versatile and affordable solution for off-road enthusiasts.

Mopar ILLUMINAT3 Pivoting Lightbar Prototype: Illuminating the Way Forward

Stellantis, the parent company of Jeep, Ram, Mopar, and other renowned automotive brands, has once again demonstrated its commitment to innovation through its Startup Innovation Design Program. This program allows employees to pitch new design ideas, with the winners receiving a full year to develop the product and business case.One such winning concept is the ILLUMINAT3 Pivoting Lightbar, designed by Cole Schaenzer. This lighting accessory for the Jeep Gladiator and Wrangler is set to revolutionize the off-road lighting game. The ILLUMINAT3 Pivoting Lightbar features three adjustable TYRE LED lights that mount over the front of the windscreen frame. The center light can be adjusted on one axis, while the two side lights can be swiveled 360 degrees on two axes, allowing for precise and versatile lighting control.The key benefits of this system include the ability to use it as an off-road driving light, ditch light, or area light, all in a single setup. Additionally, the ILLUMINAT3 Pivoting Lightbar helps protect the A-pillars from tree branch impacts and keeps the windscreen clear of obstructions.Currently, the ILLUMINAT3 Pivoting Lightbar is projected to have an MSRP of $2,195, and interested customers can join the waitlist to be among the first to secure this innovative Jeep Performance Parts product.