tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38598282468077999132024-03-12T21:06:38.901-07:00The Curio Garage: Collecting Automobilia and Car MemorabiliaThe Curio Garage: Automobilia, Car Culture, Road Art, and Car Memorabilia. Collecting everything about cars except the cars themselves.Terri Lynn Coophttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07290316565247120848noreply@blogger.comBlogger21125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3859828246807799913.post-71459494005568207912012-10-31T19:32:00.003-07:002012-10-31T19:32:43.973-07:00"Corny" NASCAR Collectibles<br />In the world of diecast collectibles, I doubt any one category is as big as NASCAR. From very inexpensive off-brand 1/64 scale (Hot Wheels size) to the very detailed (and often very pricey) 1/24 scale models, if it has ever made a left turn at a NASCAR race, it has probably been issued in diecast. <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Typically, collectors will pick a theme and follow a racing series, a driver, or a team. In my case, I tend to follow sponsors for their flashy and stylish graphics. I personally like the <a href="http://carmemorabilia.about.com/od/Models-And-Toys/a/Kellog-S-Nascar-Diecast-Miniature-Cars.htm" target="_blank">Kellogg's cars</a>. The Kellogg's iconography fits well with my general fondness for pop culture and advertising memorabilia. I also like that a good selection of cars are offered as cereal premiums rather than strictly as collectibles. To me, digging into a box of Cheerios to find a #43 Richard Petty car is way cooler than just picking it off a peg or ordering it online. Additionally, these cereal premiums are still relatively inexpensive. Check around the high shelves in flea markets or in the plastic bags in the bins. Treasures abound. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
However, you like to collect, NASCAR diecast has something to suit your taste and budget. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I found this six car set that was originally a mail-in premium in 1996 for $5.00 on the shelf of a little flea market in Independence, Kansas. I like it because it includes a car you don't see very often. In 1990, the #97 car, driven by Chuck Brown, was the first NASCAR racer to carry the Kellogg's colors. At the other end of the spectrum, is the 1996 "Iron Man" car specially built to celebrate Terry Labonte's 500+ consecutive starts. It's toys! It's advertising! It's history! That is a nerd triple-play.<div>
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkZIIkF9sUXqBoR9Ug39DPujMzFbeOn2CODHgW8e2kVQqUh9l7S52gtSxHuUwvP_A8mJoCVr6eflzKQ1UkjCs1q3s6DvSf8mm8OT4_Q-fxEkv27Bsj_RaG7x8fZJfZPLkfDKrZL1HqxEM/s1600/kelloggsmini.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkZIIkF9sUXqBoR9Ug39DPujMzFbeOn2CODHgW8e2kVQqUh9l7S52gtSxHuUwvP_A8mJoCVr6eflzKQ1UkjCs1q3s6DvSf8mm8OT4_Q-fxEkv27Bsj_RaG7x8fZJfZPLkfDKrZL1HqxEM/s400/kelloggsmini.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1996 Mail-In Kellogg's NASCAR Diecast Set (c) Terri Lynn Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Now, these cars I dug out of the Cheerios and Wheaties with my own sticky hands, just like going after the cereal box toy when I was a kid. Man, we at a lot of cereal at my house while the car promo was going on . . . .<br /><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMa1v22O-6xGb9pKQFHS32XrqGxvegZ0orBNbIYRV1A4yQvM-5Qv97_pvQXr5vrVtVua63I7sR7atzjnXFaw0h9gyTYDbhehDuX6gWxowJJt9Aed9GpgufRV9DvIPDGnoXRdxU_r3m4s8/s1600/ncar1+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMa1v22O-6xGb9pKQFHS32XrqGxvegZ0orBNbIYRV1A4yQvM-5Qv97_pvQXr5vrVtVua63I7sR7atzjnXFaw0h9gyTYDbhehDuX6gWxowJJt9Aed9GpgufRV9DvIPDGnoXRdxU_r3m4s8/s400/ncar1+(1).jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2008 Kellogg's Cereal Box Premium</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
</div>
Terri Lynn Coophttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07290316565247120848noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3859828246807799913.post-70492912787334495032012-10-21T20:43:00.000-07:002012-10-22T12:44:40.110-07:00Horny Mike Horned Helmet Accessories<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When I was visiting <a href="http://carmemorabilia.blogspot.com/2012/08/counts-kustoms-so-cool-its-hot.html" target="_blank">Count's Kustoms</a> in Las Vegas this August, I was out in the parking lot getting spare disks for my camera so I could keep snapping away until they threw me out. Off to one side, I saw a flash of movement and color as the biggest damn spiked helmet I had ever seen flew by. </div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I asked at the office and was told (with a laugh) that I must have seen Horny Mike. I grabbed a business card and did some research. <a href="http://carmemorabilia.about.com/od/Vintage-Motorcycle-Memorabilia/p/Horny-Mike-S-Horny-Helmet-Accessories.htm" target="_blank">Michael "Horny Mike" Henry</a> is a customizer and airbrush artist for the Count's hot rod and motorcycle shop. As seen by the helmet below, it is obvious that he is also an imaginative and skilled artist.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBQgqJ2-NQb57cXgPWEll-U7GkmpcYguqQphp_wyP9R-kaD6HhbOWm3AMQCcJDX1snsYItuAMqXqwc1yuR0adg1dTwBV9LZdEOpEQAZwYeMXbnVX5fY3s2Qp_A3hctv5PnPgKR3kbVySQ/s1600/CountsKustomsHelmet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBQgqJ2-NQb57cXgPWEll-U7GkmpcYguqQphp_wyP9R-kaD6HhbOWm3AMQCcJDX1snsYItuAMqXqwc1yuR0adg1dTwBV9LZdEOpEQAZwYeMXbnVX5fY3s2Qp_A3hctv5PnPgKR3kbVySQ/s400/CountsKustomsHelmet.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Horny Mike Custom Helmet (c) Terri L. Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Parked in the Count's swag shop is the incredible, stunning, splendiferously radical horned bike built by Mike. Check out the vid, because stills just don't cut it. <br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYM5FsvDKLbicQlDPtICMYcghrStmZIWHHi4mS_5_pt9NrMtpI_rWPIWCKoU-ga50EpkM6lTYrtyuJyiisYOB45ypLOV0Y-HDzEeAn4t1OZejwx8rlG7gc1E4mnG1JYk_9pWM6dZIC8p0/s1600/countskustoms8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYM5FsvDKLbicQlDPtICMYcghrStmZIWHHi4mS_5_pt9NrMtpI_rWPIWCKoU-ga50EpkM6lTYrtyuJyiisYOB45ypLOV0Y-HDzEeAn4t1OZejwx8rlG7gc1E4mnG1JYk_9pWM6dZIC8p0/s400/countskustoms8.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I christened this the "Demon Bike" when I saw it in the swag shop at<br />
Count's Kustoms in Vegas. Created by Horny Mike. (c) Terri L. Coop </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZN5AaNrDEQs?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Horny Mike has created adhesive helmet horns for the do-it-yourself customizer. To learn more about them and hope of some of the cool rubs off on you, visit his site at <a href="http://www.hornymike.com/">www.hornymike.com</a>. You can also keep up with The Count, Horny Mike and the rest of the crew on <a href="http://www.history.com/shows/counting-cars" target="_blank">History Channel's "Counting Cars"</a>. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Terri Lynn Coophttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07290316565247120848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3859828246807799913.post-56795369433890222242012-09-30T20:50:00.003-07:002012-09-30T20:50:51.020-07:00Hood Ornaments: Cruising in Vintage Style<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am always on a photo safari. I carry my camera wherever I go in my hometown of Fort Scott Kansas because the town is a mecca for classic cars. This 1936 Plymouth sitting out in front of La Hacienda was no exception. Photos don't do this beautiful vintage lady justice. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVeLZCjN1hIm3InETcOHzfZ2H_zp3Zi2RcA-TcsRlHxEsXJKeqeVJ27z69Uxjsnb77R7HvXaB4KQ-1lJl7A31JLcdSaI-V1mgxZO00jOhV6JZxzx1OF8Xp_VS80XWHt33C8rhrhI5mK7c/s1600/36plymouth3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVeLZCjN1hIm3InETcOHzfZ2H_zp3Zi2RcA-TcsRlHxEsXJKeqeVJ27z69Uxjsnb77R7HvXaB4KQ-1lJl7A31JLcdSaI-V1mgxZO00jOhV6JZxzx1OF8Xp_VS80XWHt33C8rhrhI5mK7c/s400/36plymouth3.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1936 Plymouth, Fort Scott Kansas: (c) Terri Lynn Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
However, while a customizer might be curious about what is under the hood, I am a geek for the trim and accessories. This car had a stunning <a href="http://carmemorabilia.about.com/od/Automotive-Fine-Art/a/Collecting-Hood-Ornaments-And-Mascots.htm" target="_blank">hood ornament</a> in the classic Plymouth sailing ship style. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLqJw8mk1PXzwb0F8DFLVqvgm4cq6V75C7-djB2IaCppZ7CcTERyPyilEEdKdFpGWUhF1vfEblkDd_lL8uZ01FiyCynu2lk7wPBtp52zjcWJ9o9xMHw70ic_OsAuwMq7F8RjSjNLEV6ig/s1600/36plymouth1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLqJw8mk1PXzwb0F8DFLVqvgm4cq6V75C7-djB2IaCppZ7CcTERyPyilEEdKdFpGWUhF1vfEblkDd_lL8uZ01FiyCynu2lk7wPBtp52zjcWJ9o9xMHw70ic_OsAuwMq7F8RjSjNLEV6ig/s400/36plymouth1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plymouth adopted the sailing ship style in 1935: (c) Terri Lynn Coop<br /><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The hood ornament matched the badge on the grille, keeping the sailing ship theme. Plymouth ornaments morphed into airplanes in the 1950s.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ1Fb7Zx1_AvA-0BT2gomiyD__X7SFsAJ9vFuBgNN0_Yaih6WKtVZZUEF-U454Xb9WOfPjCoSIpg4TheH55Q5fUoihHNSey_H1VZrCehe_2TWxeaXbZO5XV7SmYxlq1KUy_BNIyrMEPk8/s1600/36plymouth2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ1Fb7Zx1_AvA-0BT2gomiyD__X7SFsAJ9vFuBgNN0_Yaih6WKtVZZUEF-U454Xb9WOfPjCoSIpg4TheH55Q5fUoihHNSey_H1VZrCehe_2TWxeaXbZO5XV7SmYxlq1KUy_BNIyrMEPk8/s400/36plymouth2.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
When it comes to hood ornaments and chrome, I am more of a virtual collector. I like photographing the chrome on the cars in good natural light. I don't have to worry about them breaking or rusting and I don't have to use my limited display place. Also, price. Hood ornaments can sell for $2.00 to $2000.00 (and more) depending on the rarity. That's a lot of mini-discs for my camera. So, if you see someone in cargo shorts leaning over a classic car on your street, don't call the cops, it's just me and I know to look, but not touch. <br />
<br />Terri Lynn Coophttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07290316565247120848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3859828246807799913.post-76648751009294143642012-09-29T23:03:00.000-07:002012-09-29T23:03:57.242-07:00Fuzzy Dice. Yes, I Said Fuzzy Dice<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px;"><i>"You was laughing at me, I was doing James Dean</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
You was the prettiest girl I'd ever seen</div>
</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
When you rolled your eyes and twirled my pink fur dice."</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Sawyer Brown: "Some Girls Do" 1992</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: small; font-style: normal; text-align: start;">So, I like <a href="http://carmemorabilia.about.com/od/Automotive-Collectibles/a/Dicing-With-Death-History-Of-Fuzzy-Dice.htm" target="_blank">fuzzy dice</a>. Sue me. They invoke a sense of nostalgia and history in me and make me wish I was out cruising and dropping the flag on a street race instead of reading on the Internet about WWII veterans street racing. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: small; font-style: normal; text-align: start;"><br /></span></div>
</span></i></div>
<i><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9shDAsLReUBowmxj4eGzUieEpIP80E72RqCenPNjVEjrOgDmRZcfsNkdpoe_JT6vP3aeNGEmuHJdVf-go-51hRAdVUjkAFGwY1TE4lQnd7B5Nb2N0g6_4HJB4MJEfse7vr_kZvCl7mx8/s1600/avifuzzydice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9shDAsLReUBowmxj4eGzUieEpIP80E72RqCenPNjVEjrOgDmRZcfsNkdpoe_JT6vP3aeNGEmuHJdVf-go-51hRAdVUjkAFGwY1TE4lQnd7B5Nb2N0g6_4HJB4MJEfse7vr_kZvCl7mx8/s320/avifuzzydice.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vintage Fuzzy Dice are the mascot for my<br />car memorabilia Facebook page (c) Terri L. Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</span></i><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOpPxBSP1mndR1qnC0C4CsV-hFRTT-nHlPgfKsqEFRn_uhXJ8twusYh8cmvJLom6-tJnrAqjwppTmD_b3EueDf-a2SLZKBViWKvEBz7Z3cWTxFKku9tFazdnwbEGEugtmBZN6WIYrIYmE/s1600/vegasdice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOpPxBSP1mndR1qnC0C4CsV-hFRTT-nHlPgfKsqEFRn_uhXJ8twusYh8cmvJLom6-tJnrAqjwppTmD_b3EueDf-a2SLZKBViWKvEBz7Z3cWTxFKku9tFazdnwbEGEugtmBZN6WIYrIYmE/s320/vegasdice.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On my Vegas trip I searched for the right souvenir<br />and on Fremont Street, ta-dah! Set to lucky number<br />seven (c) Terri Lynn Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 13px;" /><br />Terri Lynn Coophttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07290316565247120848noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3859828246807799913.post-35489363286934478882012-09-29T20:11:00.000-07:002012-10-01T17:34:36.847-07:00Las Vegas Harley-Davidson Cafe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
About halfway through my vacation visiting my friends in Vegas, they both had to work. I know, whatever was I going to do with myself? I had my bestie dump me at the Strip with a promise to call if I needed anything. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Well, anybody can hang out at a casino. When you've seen one video poker game, you've seen them all. I was much more interested in the sights and sounds of America's biggest outdoor theme park - Las Vegas Boulevard. I started my hike at the Statue of Liberty (you can see her on the right edge) and was way ready for a break by the time I got to the midway point. And to my delight, that included the <a href="http://carmemorabilia.about.com/od/Fun_Places_For_Collectors/p/Las-Vegas-Harley-Davidson-Cafe.htm" target="_blank">Harley-Davidson Cafe</a> with the giant bike leaping out of the second floor ready to roar down The Strip. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJVtVwGlsOlx2LxlJVnlWJxJkWAa6rLOkZtGiZGCmu5ah6wfcD-uSKBh6ZxBcioYdK4JUQaxM92H6Mh-nGjS6Q9fhMeMW4xqP02J7jyLRCPSuvs-v5MR7MBmc48DkhBYCteMzXeGtxoss/s1600/harleycafe6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJVtVwGlsOlx2LxlJVnlWJxJkWAa6rLOkZtGiZGCmu5ah6wfcD-uSKBh6ZxBcioYdK4JUQaxM92H6Mh-nGjS6Q9fhMeMW4xqP02J7jyLRCPSuvs-v5MR7MBmc48DkhBYCteMzXeGtxoss/s400/harleycafe6.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Harley Cafe on the Vegas Strip (c) Terri Lynn Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
This second photo comes from the observation deck at the top of the escalator. The detail is amazing, right down to the logos and chrome. Hah! From this perspective, it looks like the front wheel is sitting on the pavement ready to rock and roll. I even got a shadow.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5FeNF2vpdbIww-Jvg04DuXJl01XMKIKdq8HXZwEOaQqRi0ChLyogRObLJKYAadhDS3-OH1MWuDxk_LTfbYJwyguxirMTDk0D4HkTiX0-A0BGbgBik-Z6W44pWZU3prLgv3fpYfWx454o/s1600/harleycafe5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5FeNF2vpdbIww-Jvg04DuXJl01XMKIKdq8HXZwEOaQqRi0ChLyogRObLJKYAadhDS3-OH1MWuDxk_LTfbYJwyguxirMTDk0D4HkTiX0-A0BGbgBik-Z6W44pWZU3prLgv3fpYfWx454o/s400/harleycafe5.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Vegas Harley is ready to ride! (c) Terri Lynn Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Inside, along with cold beer and hot BBQ is a collection of vintage and customized bikes that roll by on a chain drive in the ceiling. The bikes circle the restaurant then climb out of sight. The restaurant has an amazing collection of celebrity photos and memorabilia as well. A perfect lunch or break stop for a car and motorcycle fan. The Harley-Davidson Cafe is located at 3725 Las Vegas Boulevard and is open from 9 in the morning until midnight, seven days a week.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsgDUZcnLyUz_pdYOF1eD5gBLH2Vg4vgP7m_yzcNsO92dhLV-Q_hIVcNHbTq1JgcrZPX-9j9xVPg87Bqh-5Jm5yqHgtx74ROeOHWssmV35fesHXHtEuByB5Q8CtDpK1SpUEjG9raRzBOI/s1600/harleycafe2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsgDUZcnLyUz_pdYOF1eD5gBLH2Vg4vgP7m_yzcNsO92dhLV-Q_hIVcNHbTq1JgcrZPX-9j9xVPg87Bqh-5Jm5yqHgtx74ROeOHWssmV35fesHXHtEuByB5Q8CtDpK1SpUEjG9raRzBOI/s400/harleycafe2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Harley 1200 Low riding the drive (c) Terri Lynn Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Terri Lynn Coophttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07290316565247120848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3859828246807799913.post-25900910264285254772012-09-16T20:31:00.000-07:002012-09-16T20:31:00.675-07:00Pawn Stars - Viva Las Vegas!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZG9nfLU3xWdDFYvAGUxL1o3FdsJxDvZAUts3aL5Rw_HsVf5ok3LjCJKwMWM5XXbhz5EVnmN1L_GiJWAhb78FctD1OP5PtMW868S0r9KQPV-ysgT_7hUbN-84dA8qt06FEFhChpnWpGq0/s1600/pawnstars5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZG9nfLU3xWdDFYvAGUxL1o3FdsJxDvZAUts3aL5Rw_HsVf5ok3LjCJKwMWM5XXbhz5EVnmN1L_GiJWAhb78FctD1OP5PtMW868S0r9KQPV-ysgT_7hUbN-84dA8qt06FEFhChpnWpGq0/s320/pawnstars5.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gold & Silver Pawn at 713 S. Las Vegas Blvd. <br />Home of the "Pawn Stars": (c) Terri L. Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
No trip to Vegas is complete with a stop at the<a href="http://carmemorabilia.about.com/od/Models-And-Toys/a/Gold-And-Silver-Pawn-In-Las-Vegas.htm" target="_blank"> "Pawn Stars"</a> pawn shop. Well, at least no trip if you are a pop culture junkie like yours truly. My friends were great sports and we headed down there early on a Thursday morning to get in line. My luck was good and we barely had time to get exterior photos before being ushered inside. And, yes, it is hella cool, just like on the show. It is fun to go inside and see what you've seen on TV dozens of times. Yes, I am geeky like that. Unfortunately, Rick and company were in Sturgis at the bike run, so no filming and no stars. But, I'm sure that's why the crowds were lighter. So, it was still a win. I found a nice variety of car collectibles, including diecast and gas and oil signs. </div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1-Mr5QZfGIQiiL1KsFjuLOCEmxEeW9zDUWU1gSwDTSDl0RQ9qvhzkKz0PYxPGMewgb1LSkGmf_uFwFbM2rWwcrSiHBmdlSEgJQgJ3pfvi7DDgIG6RakhxGQR7DysGKvWupRQ4WnYL-8Y/s1600/CoopBlogPic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1-Mr5QZfGIQiiL1KsFjuLOCEmxEeW9zDUWU1gSwDTSDl0RQ9qvhzkKz0PYxPGMewgb1LSkGmf_uFwFbM2rWwcrSiHBmdlSEgJQgJ3pfvi7DDgIG6RakhxGQR7DysGKvWupRQ4WnYL-8Y/s200/CoopBlogPic.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Get in line early! (c) Terri L. Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPqj0l4MdpuDHd1sBkWqTn-CdytR-FJlkEL1rMgJyZjosbY3cPQv2U6Np40cE94s99TaM__Bm6VlfAASC3qdGlN386uWNTVaBAyNe9EAna8Z1SO_QbKXNg21sIE-PQJpR4fvhP7NnvWDw/s1600/pawnstars2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPqj0l4MdpuDHd1sBkWqTn-CdytR-FJlkEL1rMgJyZjosbY3cPQv2U6Np40cE94s99TaM__Bm6VlfAASC3qdGlN386uWNTVaBAyNe9EAna8Z1SO_QbKXNg21sIE-PQJpR4fvhP7NnvWDw/s200/pawnstars2.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1:18 scale diecast: (c) Terri L. Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmBrwJs4BuK1wq_CbZ5nYy8hrNo3lxf-B9ZTkehcmXuZFupAyuPx0Sy7amHtz62xEL2xRVdjU4VxQjVRGjsEG-aRc4TuNN5Bmf2I7q8qkECTJvnUrW_yyiEuFTNQhzNd2BB9DFZ0nuE5E/s1600/pawnstars6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmBrwJs4BuK1wq_CbZ5nYy8hrNo3lxf-B9ZTkehcmXuZFupAyuPx0Sy7amHtz62xEL2xRVdjU4VxQjVRGjsEG-aRc4TuNN5Bmf2I7q8qkECTJvnUrW_yyiEuFTNQhzNd2BB9DFZ0nuE5E/s200/pawnstars6.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ultimate NASCAR <br />Collectible: (c) Terri Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFkAAZeE7YSV10_2CRtIV_yWSwpS7bKlppYHNaH0XGgx_7WbRFaodiP9E_CHoezQBTdTOracMe1JHJFOt6EhOz3nzDHvYZpKFD3rM7N1AiNNucFURCVZvQ_iPuJcEv9L1RtuYtD-1bmSU/s1600/pawnstars7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFkAAZeE7YSV10_2CRtIV_yWSwpS7bKlppYHNaH0XGgx_7WbRFaodiP9E_CHoezQBTdTOracMe1JHJFOt6EhOz3nzDHvYZpKFD3rM7N1AiNNucFURCVZvQ_iPuJcEv9L1RtuYtD-1bmSU/s200/pawnstars7.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready to drive home: (c) Terri L. Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Yes, for $50K, you can have your own 1:1 scale NASCAR racer. Low miles, mostly left turns. Has had several drivers, but still has a lot of life in it. I guarantee you will be the only kid on your block. Also plenty of autographed car memorabilia, sure to please any gearhead. On your way out, check out the great pedal car collection over the showcases. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN__mj8BRTQl7ChuF8oRWEqup9JvyiVLMOGXKqUOSRyR5qCXDWpjMncGquK3kUh1faf21lLFCXFv82WNXJBQEKjM4RkPjR5lrkOPUuGF2EsBEF10YyveOAGIBLtyrep1kmkRY92il0zLQ/s1600/pawnstars1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN__mj8BRTQl7ChuF8oRWEqup9JvyiVLMOGXKqUOSRyR5qCXDWpjMncGquK3kUh1faf21lLFCXFv82WNXJBQEKjM4RkPjR5lrkOPUuGF2EsBEF10YyveOAGIBLtyrep1kmkRY92il0zLQ/s320/pawnstars1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vinrage pedal car: (c) Terri L. Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Terri Lynn Coophttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07290316565247120848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3859828246807799913.post-20051790552831741542012-09-01T19:59:00.000-07:002012-09-01T21:33:32.029-07:00Pimping Your Ridez at Ridemakerz<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb0DAQNjq7vQAFEpovlfqADgGElGRbaq9gWy0kg6OFLQGBaJt-SlpliNChmjlWItfcqg7HO3Mq7pyLVr5y9sxw9gKRtGk64l9QrbanEfN7uc-wQSyLSNPybu4vp7B2R4DwFVGeyJ1kceQ/s1600/toyshack4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb0DAQNjq7vQAFEpovlfqADgGElGRbaq9gWy0kg6OFLQGBaJt-SlpliNChmjlWItfcqg7HO3Mq7pyLVr5y9sxw9gKRtGk64l9QrbanEfN7uc-wQSyLSNPybu4vp7B2R4DwFVGeyJ1kceQ/s320/toyshack4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Toy Shack Bats McQueen: (c) Terri L. Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I got my first look at a <a href="http://carmemorabilia.about.com/od/Models-And-Toys/p/Ridemakerz-Toy-Car-Customizing-Experience.htm" target="_blank">Ridemakerz</a> custom toy car when I visited the <a href="http://carmemorabilia.about.com/od/Models-And-Toys/a/Las-Vegas-Toy-Shack.htm" target="_blank">Toy Shack</a> on my trip to Las Vegas. I asked about the clever 1:18 scale Pixar character cars and heard the magic word - Ridemakerz. Intrigued Terri was intrigued. . .<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyM-nT54gXjOSk_jlpSdYEYwemSBT__s8iz93NkNDYyq404tmpq8NGrOfADf4V7HjAaBiNoKGIzjcUdbz6acbnyDFDpVCji0999LD0VNbZtXUHdrsW8jXJmAvc8ax62UUmqgabSv3zSEM/s1600/toyshack2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyM-nT54gXjOSk_jlpSdYEYwemSBT__s8iz93NkNDYyq404tmpq8NGrOfADf4V7HjAaBiNoKGIzjcUdbz6acbnyDFDpVCji0999LD0VNbZtXUHdrsW8jXJmAvc8ax62UUmqgabSv3zSEM/s320/toyshack2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Toy Shack Ridemakerz McQueen: (c) Terri L. Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGkfeAIIKejMU5IgpWj6KKEZ2qHRiUOVyBPpW3m6nnH25lC0S6TPE1O51MYfXaVX8HCnc8h4VetEAknaN6PbSlws68T7TJDeAP5tgqwBoI-xnNXG6zOYdyjxyuUXCkUym5755xrAF7cHE/s1600/toyshack3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGkfeAIIKejMU5IgpWj6KKEZ2qHRiUOVyBPpW3m6nnH25lC0S6TPE1O51MYfXaVX8HCnc8h4VetEAknaN6PbSlws68T7TJDeAP5tgqwBoI-xnNXG6zOYdyjxyuUXCkUym5755xrAF7cHE/s320/toyshack3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Toy Shack Capt America Tater: (c) Terri L. Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
So, I visited the Ridemakerz website and found a nerd world so compelling that I ended up playing with the build-a-car app for a couple of hours.<br />
<br />
Ridemakerz offers more than Disney cars. You can build realistic racers or fanciful funny cars. There is a radio-controlled chassis option as well.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Ridemakerz also has several stores where you can pull up to the bench and build your car yourself with the help of the on-site service crew. They even will let you have your birthday party there.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Just how freaking cool is that?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Check out the site and have some fun. Watch your cart, your creation can get pricey fast. However, with 649 million possible combinations, it will be a one-of-a-kind. Ridemakerz also offers gift cards that I think would make an awesome gift. *cough* Ya know, if you were having trouble deciding what to do for Christmas. *halo*</div>
Terri Lynn Coophttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07290316565247120848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3859828246807799913.post-74797521907982748132012-08-30T22:32:00.001-07:002012-08-30T22:40:50.530-07:00The Las Vegas Toy ShackNext stop on my Vegas reality show tour was the <a href="http://carmemorabilia.about.com/od/Models-And-Toys/a/Las-Vegas-Toy-Shack.htm" target="_blank">Vegas Toy Shack</a>, home of Johnny Jimenez, toy expert for History Channel's "Pawn Stars." I talked with one of his staff and got the scoop on a burning question, "did they go back and buy that outrageous Transformers collection?" The answer was "some of it" and that there was even more to the collection than shown on television.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The Toy Shack is a mecca for diecast and toy car collectors. They specialize in Hot Wheels, Matchbox, 1:18 scale diecast and model kits as well as action figures and other pop culture toys. One look at the storefront (guarded by Lion-O) and you know you are in the right place.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdPuvZkYYJzvPtKOltj5iGaiJhDJdd73NY6IGhryHGlxmin1NzM6rrkAi0mWR94ljhiuQNEplLKHD2y6uclVRJrDaICCHMy-Hcqd338gSIfJZAgakGnkf7fevY2ri3-vE9pKpJJQXhClA/s1600/toyshack1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdPuvZkYYJzvPtKOltj5iGaiJhDJdd73NY6IGhryHGlxmin1NzM6rrkAi0mWR94ljhiuQNEplLKHD2y6uclVRJrDaICCHMy-Hcqd338gSIfJZAgakGnkf7fevY2ri3-vE9pKpJJQXhClA/s320/toyshack1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Vegas Toy Shack in Neonopolis: (c) Terri L. Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I admit to being just fascinated by the customized 1:18 scale (or there abouts) Disney Pixar CARS characters. Some were done at Ridemakerz, but some, like the outrageous Tater below came all from the minds and craftsmanship of the Toy Shack staff.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1InJxqBFfXw7puI0uQLk-_gZ0avq6tgvkXRxV1_n6jUtHB7sApADjuqR0PaAH9gEMKDz4Xh900RFAjBIGmF-zFDV3wH5otXcdICnmlYTAhfUsrV2KP5UqCDX3Q3EZPNNXexFb7M5-w-s/s1600/toyshack2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1InJxqBFfXw7puI0uQLk-_gZ0avq6tgvkXRxV1_n6jUtHB7sApADjuqR0PaAH9gEMKDz4Xh900RFAjBIGmF-zFDV3wH5otXcdICnmlYTAhfUsrV2KP5UqCDX3Q3EZPNNXexFb7M5-w-s/s320/toyshack2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pixar CARS Custom McQueen: (c) Terri L. Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeMhQ4EyzBZZyzakogjqQOpUR3iRqMdPcaneaS0k4XDF-MwrU3P4ib3ygH4Wo4ciVbFgx2yW4tfYHgwUIrW6Dg0i_EiZnFqdVI_WefFH-fkfATRuHsAaSN_PDN_k4joAKu8B6lQ2QcJb0/s1600/toyshack5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeMhQ4EyzBZZyzakogjqQOpUR3iRqMdPcaneaS0k4XDF-MwrU3P4ib3ygH4Wo4ciVbFgx2yW4tfYHgwUIrW6Dg0i_EiZnFqdVI_WefFH-fkfATRuHsAaSN_PDN_k4joAKu8B6lQ2QcJb0/s320/toyshack5.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of a kind custom Pixar CARS Tater: (c) Terri L. Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Ug4Hg6WakuH3pZS64Ij3l3rtoPe1sQWu3hep_EtcL2NGNLGmqd6iKwloM9FRRN4dTorcTJTLKk82jEnxQx0w3bauY6Gr1fJdDYKPj_VTdsFCm-FZ0vsH8PSnMEm_SBzcFfYwkwA_mFs/s1600/toyshack6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Ug4Hg6WakuH3pZS64Ij3l3rtoPe1sQWu3hep_EtcL2NGNLGmqd6iKwloM9FRRN4dTorcTJTLKk82jEnxQx0w3bauY6Gr1fJdDYKPj_VTdsFCm-FZ0vsH8PSnMEm_SBzcFfYwkwA_mFs/s320/toyshack6.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Diecast & Model Kits: (c) Terri L. Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The Toy Shack is a great place to buy, sell, trade, and just hang out and talk toys. Located in Neonopolis at the far end of Fremont Street, it is a destination all by itself. Check. It. Out.<br />
<br /></div>
Terri Lynn Coophttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07290316565247120848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3859828246807799913.post-17725964140975257382012-08-29T21:29:00.000-07:002012-08-30T22:33:57.021-07:00Count's Kustoms - So Cool, It's HotI know the photography rules so well at <a href="http://od/Automotive-Clothing/a/Count-S-Kustoms-In-Las-Vegas.htm" target="_blank"> Count's Kustoms</a> in Las Vegas because I hadn't been there five minutes before I violated them. <br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Rut roh . . . </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I worked out the misunderstanding because The Count's staff and minions are truly as cool as the man himself. However, keep an eye on where you point your camera.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Once inside, be prepared to be smited with style (or is that "smote"? meh, roll with me). From Horny Mike's bike and spiked helmet combo to the hot rod swag shop, Count's Kustoms has got it going on. And you aren't even to the cars yet!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Follow your guide and stay on the path (*cough* okay, that was my second warning, but I was just like a kid in a candy-apple shop!) and treasures will present themselves . . . </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
There's rare. There's really rare. And there's ZOMFG-freaking-can-you-believe-it rare ... </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOvGJxpa8pWWVhV4JTZcqYwGE6RiF4EoA3MCSdEBSi2nbjBfG4HwWavopJsHZe2gHhm1Ks9isXYvjTG9zllRi8Em213ZS5SQ2z_5AVlC0fdHwKAOn_iVudag_h9AOytryqGeG8wTdL7RE/s1600/countskustoms3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOvGJxpa8pWWVhV4JTZcqYwGE6RiF4EoA3MCSdEBSi2nbjBfG4HwWavopJsHZe2gHhm1Ks9isXYvjTG9zllRi8Em213ZS5SQ2z_5AVlC0fdHwKAOn_iVudag_h9AOytryqGeG8wTdL7RE/s320/countskustoms3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Even the logo is rad: (c) Terri L. Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
An utterly cherried-out turquoise Chevy Bel Air convertible, perfect right down to the turquoise fuzzy dice...</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUBxVpO0swvOq4tF49VjbLusybMx4NHOVELDm5weVblK5LRKXilV1NXb30f_R6jsb2oRAp2GgVJ8lStLz8-HBJuzOz5OtkoG0FLu_HGOxS92dhHDa2Wa_T5BtSwFXsgVhqEG_35_MS2bo/s1600/countskustoms1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUBxVpO0swvOq4tF49VjbLusybMx4NHOVELDm5weVblK5LRKXilV1NXb30f_R6jsb2oRAp2GgVJ8lStLz8-HBJuzOz5OtkoG0FLu_HGOxS92dhHDa2Wa_T5BtSwFXsgVhqEG_35_MS2bo/s320/countskustoms1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fit for a Countess: (c) Terri L. Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Where automotive paint work becomes fine art . . .<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTZKqf_Hs6pnmqwuNR9MrCIi79VKM5SCCAp4Sio42bZMvObi1sW5msTPwdhOuULP6lKWkLtGm_0v-XoSb_Cvfz2BDICBK91dbfJdSafGJcDtTbeLwv2tgHsVBdva8tNxIgae_TmiV3eY4/s1600/countskustoms2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTZKqf_Hs6pnmqwuNR9MrCIi79VKM5SCCAp4Sio42bZMvObi1sW5msTPwdhOuULP6lKWkLtGm_0v-XoSb_Cvfz2BDICBK91dbfJdSafGJcDtTbeLwv2tgHsVBdva8tNxIgae_TmiV3eY4/s320/countskustoms2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Automotive fine art: (c) Terri L. Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The ultimate piece of car memorabilia . . . a full-size Hot Wheels<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjArweOgLfZvz8wnBZLOw0_vPOV7GXr3QepEH9jcHSVBgIjQqgXCY45QhvHlzXQm7HLzWSEPyiuUI2pgXVjJOptufiLoQnatsMy3lxzjMtiqusm7mA96h0t_X-Xd-zC9RxkSoOZCtOqduE/s1600/countskustoms5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjArweOgLfZvz8wnBZLOw0_vPOV7GXr3QepEH9jcHSVBgIjQqgXCY45QhvHlzXQm7HLzWSEPyiuUI2pgXVjJOptufiLoQnatsMy3lxzjMtiqusm7mA96h0t_X-Xd-zC9RxkSoOZCtOqduE/s320/countskustoms5.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The ultimate collectible, a life size Hot Wheels: (c) Terri L. Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIUbaMlrQScCOPd4EgufXgsoW-OcJKj1EV3bKHhyphenhyphen1OG5KJ8UUTnpa4LBQzCtoP0S6QWMM_G0zOy55-yqQlEthiORFGwaX0JtrdtIArlBf5NQvnvkbOg_UaDgUtRHuzHoXI45mxtpKkVws/s1600/countskustoms5a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIUbaMlrQScCOPd4EgufXgsoW-OcJKj1EV3bKHhyphenhyphen1OG5KJ8UUTnpa4LBQzCtoP0S6QWMM_G0zOy55-yqQlEthiORFGwaX0JtrdtIArlBf5NQvnvkbOg_UaDgUtRHuzHoXI45mxtpKkVws/s320/countskustoms5a.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The bona fides: (c) Terri L. Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
And, now, before we conclude, here is your trivia for the day. Back in the early 1990s, the Koker family, including Danny Koker of Count's Kustoms, owned a local Las Vegas TV station that featured Danny Koker as "Count Cool Rider" on the B-movie "Saturday Fright at the Movies." A few years ago, a dear friend of mine, Las Vegas artist Suzanne Hackett-Morgan, was part of a Vegas-wide art project to paint and decorate utility boxes. Suzanne did hers in homage to classic Las Vegas television personalities. Here is her tribute to Count Cool Rider himself . . .<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi6FLYa0EsJAqpLeSgJPKFDgj8VrPV55Cv4haWbMcOKm7Ed90FXwnKebMfQvIEVFiHb9FNTv5p8PFOfZnnWldid6ogeEyxNuPl-K6ORlNe6Xki1jIdvmXm4NDEBKU_z7eLzDFMUEv5yhM/s1600/countcoolrider" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi6FLYa0EsJAqpLeSgJPKFDgj8VrPV55Cv4haWbMcOKm7Ed90FXwnKebMfQvIEVFiHb9FNTv5p8PFOfZnnWldid6ogeEyxNuPl-K6ORlNe6Xki1jIdvmXm4NDEBKU_z7eLzDFMUEv5yhM/s320/countcoolrider" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Count Cool Rider Utility Box Las Vegas (c) Suzanne Hackett-Morgan</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
Terri Lynn Coophttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07290316565247120848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3859828246807799913.post-38598859127306862842012-08-19T21:03:00.000-07:002012-08-19T21:20:52.306-07:00Las Vegas Fun: Rick's Restorations<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBnlhQMDFyg8qzr4A4lB-vN90L_7gCBAiVckhh2WbP0vXK2daLQU324UHcn2czWMstazkISGxGQiUqAC8cmet-krzk9lfweBbxC08Y1yuJql4Hfa5dZOvnn4ehHOSBBJB2kbth-QDhXrE/s1600/ricksrestore3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBnlhQMDFyg8qzr4A4lB-vN90L_7gCBAiVckhh2WbP0vXK2daLQU324UHcn2czWMstazkISGxGQiUqAC8cmet-krzk9lfweBbxC08Y1yuJql4Hfa5dZOvnn4ehHOSBBJB2kbth-QDhXrE/s320/ricksrestore3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rick's Restorations Exterior, (c) Terri L. Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
When I planned my trip to Las Vegas, my friends asked me what I wanted to do. Well, duh, I wanted to go to <a href="http://carmemorabilia.about.com/od/Vintage-Gas-Pumps-And-Globes/p/Rick-S-Restorations-And-Memorabilia.htm" target="_blank">Rick's Restorations</a>, so off we went. Unfortunately, Rick Dale was at the Sturgis Run, but his gorgeous wife Kelly (the model behind the saucy retro logo), talked with me.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrwGp0PSXRje1wk7vVzH3mGOO-Mj3KYnF93ehehJgKjRoODq8X7UjKB5QkOZULzCcjg3Kggj_f10D8a4tZr_BlDSVHDI_vkETMeg7V1fj928dkni0_ZgTIqiYdcNwNqBiMMfAETfjV8EM/s1600/ricksrestore1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrwGp0PSXRje1wk7vVzH3mGOO-Mj3KYnF93ehehJgKjRoODq8X7UjKB5QkOZULzCcjg3Kggj_f10D8a4tZr_BlDSVHDI_vkETMeg7V1fj928dkni0_ZgTIqiYdcNwNqBiMMfAETfjV8EM/s320/ricksrestore1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You are in the right place! (c) Terri L. Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjduuj9AZWstelDdudUsR3oCNTwKrYcpCkukUUidOTd9MFcf2fI7H55QQVQ_wL4I0iKOeMMEFc3etaFG1c-26LalCdWuwMZSS5w_cosI6EGIeo60Mf2Nb6a8ln2oSJotsU7pbGwCQqV_g8/s1600/ricksstore8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjduuj9AZWstelDdudUsR3oCNTwKrYcpCkukUUidOTd9MFcf2fI7H55QQVQ_wL4I0iKOeMMEFc3etaFG1c-26LalCdWuwMZSS5w_cosI6EGIeo60Mf2Nb6a8ln2oSJotsU7pbGwCQqV_g8/s320/ricksstore8.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kelly - sexy and smart! (c) Terri L. Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After laying out the rules on photography (customer privacy and to not accidentally reveal projects for upcoming episodes of their show American Restoration), I got an awesome tour of the workshop area from<a href="http://rickdale.ricksrestorations.com/rick-dale-crew.php" target="_blank"> Brett "The Butcher."</a><br />
<br />
I cannot overstate how warm and fun-loving the crew at Rick's Restorations is. Every visitor was treated like a long-lost friend and the entire operation is set up as a combination business, museum, and tourist attraction.<br />
<br />
When you arrive, check out the retro small town street scene. Classic cars, restored and unrestored, grace the front for browsing and photo-ops. (Hint, look all around the parking lot, there was some fun stuff to see tucked away in the corners.)<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUfgF-dSxo3JgCfj06TNzyk5RNcxSyjPDGhVxwEBTMpJJP4BSnS5XGVL6vunuDbk-Hid2wewtIeU4CcQgigIn1EVf1uKG4bESC6x7JjrWIrba-smdbfdtsXxO7s-Z4TNmPdqJUpKmYGhI/s1600/rickstore9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUfgF-dSxo3JgCfj06TNzyk5RNcxSyjPDGhVxwEBTMpJJP4BSnS5XGVL6vunuDbk-Hid2wewtIeU4CcQgigIn1EVf1uKG4bESC6x7JjrWIrba-smdbfdtsXxO7s-Z4TNmPdqJUpKmYGhI/s320/rickstore9.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chrome details on one of the restored beauties<br />
outside of Rick's, (c) Terri L. Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Then try your luck at figuring out which of the doors actually leads inside. Luckily, you get as many tries as you need. Once inside the showroom, take your time and explore. The display isn't huge, but the variety and craftsmanship is stunning (I seriously want the slot machine Kelly is posing by AND the gas station paper towel dispenser).<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinxiCxWXlFDkiUXpt_rhZ8h7cpk6v-g2AmgR-CpmM60DxscFGrb1y20gUgqRPARvp_CHNwKEhjYKOAaFefBi_ZrrvEfKbI0KL4m65K2W71x-TACnAO2MqTLL6IIrPxknUTABkMMXB36HM/s1600/ricksrestore4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinxiCxWXlFDkiUXpt_rhZ8h7cpk6v-g2AmgR-CpmM60DxscFGrb1y20gUgqRPARvp_CHNwKEhjYKOAaFefBi_ZrrvEfKbI0KL4m65K2W71x-TACnAO2MqTLL6IIrPxknUTABkMMXB36HM/s320/ricksrestore4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It was practical! Yeesh! (c) Terri L. Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
And no trip is complete without browsing through the souvenir shop. Why yes, I did get a hat, why do you ask? Las Vegas is very sunny and hot this time of year. It was practical, I tell you, practical. Next time you are in Vegas and, um, need a hat (or an antique vertical gas pump restored), be sure to stop by Rick's Restorations at 1112 South Commerce Street. Hours are 9 - 5, Monday through Friday and 10 - 4, Saturday and Sunday. You won't regret it one bit.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Terri Lynn Coophttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07290316565247120848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3859828246807799913.post-55616744029029712112012-08-15T11:40:00.002-07:002012-08-15T11:42:25.741-07:00Viva Las Vegas!Hi everyone!<br />
<br />
I just got home from a vacation in Las Vegas and wanted to let you know what is coming up this month in posts about awesome car memorabilia:<br />
<br />
1. I visited the pawn shop made famous by<a href="http://gspawn.com/" target="_blank"> Pawn Stars on History Channel</a> and discovered some cool automotive collectibles.<br />
<br />
2. I then visited<a href="http://www.ricksrestorations.com/" target="_blank"> "Rick's Restorations"</a> where I met Rick's wife Kelly and got a tour of not only the restoration shops, but a look at the fun collectibles they offer.<br />
<br />
3. Then over to the lair of Count Cool Rider himself, <a href="http://www.countskustoms.com/" target="_blank">Count's Kustoms</a>, just four days before the premiere of his new show! A great tour of the car collection and memorabilia and gear shop.<br />
<br />
4. What? There's more? Yes, a stop by the<a href="http://lasvegastoyshack.com/" target="_blank"> Toy Shack</a> and a chat with the toy expert featured on Pawn Stars. I got a look at the fantastic custom toy vehicles they make based on the Disney/Pixar animated movie "Cars." True one-of-a-kind collectibles.<br />
<br />
5. Scratch a car lover and you find a Harley fan. So, a trip to the<a href="http://hdcstorelv.stores.yahoo.net/" target="_blank"> Harley-Davidson Cafe</a> on the Strip was in order. It did not disappoint.<br />
<br />
6. Whew . . . then a trip to the<a href="http://goldwellmuseum.org/" target="_blank"> Goldwell Open Air Museum</a> in Rhyolite, Nevada to check out the remains of a sculpture titled "Desert Flower" made entirely of <a href="http://carmemorabilia.about.com/od/Car-Memorabilia-101/a/Caring-For-Chrome-Automotive-Collectibles.htm" target="_blank">vintage automotive chrome</a> (one of my favorites!). Tragically, the sculpture was destroyed in a wind storm. However, you'll see before and after photos of this lost artwork.<br />
<br />
7. And yes! We have a new avatar for the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/AboutCarMemorabilia" target="_blank">About Car Memorabilia Facebook page</a>. I had given away my vintage fuzzy dice in a contest the week before my trip. However, Las Vegas abides and Fremont Street provides. I'll be unveiling our new mascot on Sunday. <br />
<br />
So, how was your weekend?Terri Lynn Coophttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07290316565247120848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3859828246807799913.post-20326712184344941392012-08-08T06:43:00.000-07:002012-08-08T06:43:27.987-07:00For the Nerdy GearheadThis is just made of win . . .<br />
<br />
<br />
<h1 class="entry-title" style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://nerdapproved.com/approved-products/hot-wheels-to-release-a-mars-rover-curiosity-toy/" target="_blank">Hot Wheels To Release a Mars Rover Curiosity Toy</a></h1>
<div>
What's not to love?</div>Terri Lynn Coophttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07290316565247120848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3859828246807799913.post-74395789947107131592012-08-06T20:36:00.000-07:002012-08-06T20:55:34.650-07:00Luxury Car Memorabilia Auction August 16 - 18, 2012<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip7UWpLIVDWVe2aOwk7MZI2rbET28rwLqFr2fyKwNRkBpfdFcH1VZzDmns5AgdLniSKcBfqszT3dmbQVJWQsUPnLykbrvRlh4lsPJxt48b0Lc9ewqip-pzjsRe1nOvpYDm9_J-rLAVQh0/s1600/Russo+&+Steel+Prancing+Horse+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip7UWpLIVDWVe2aOwk7MZI2rbET28rwLqFr2fyKwNRkBpfdFcH1VZzDmns5AgdLniSKcBfqszT3dmbQVJWQsUPnLykbrvRlh4lsPJxt48b0Lc9ewqip-pzjsRe1nOvpYDm9_J-rLAVQh0/s320/Russo+&+Steel+Prancing+Horse+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enzo Ferrari Prancing Horse Sculpture (c) Russo & Steele 2012</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="http://russoandsteele.com/index.php/auctions/monterey-auction?utm_content=michamer%40msn.com&utm_source=VerticalResponse&utm_medium=Email&utm_term=&utm_campaign=ENZO%20FERRARI%E2%80%99S%20%E2%80%9CCAVALLINO%20RAMPANTE%E2%80%9D%20SOLD%20NO%20RESERVEcontent" target="_blank">Russo and Steele</a>, home to classic collector automobile auctions will be holding its 12th Annual Sports and Muscle auction in Monterey California on August 16 - 18, 2012.<br />
<br />
Along with 250 automobiles, the sale will include a spectacular array of automotive memorabilia including the famed <a href="http://www.russoandsteele.com/collector-car/0-N-A-Prancing-Horse-Woodend-Statue/25531?utm_content=michamer%40msn.com&utm_source=VerticalResponse&utm_medium=Email&utm_term=&utm_campaign=ENZO%20FERRARI%E2%80%99S%20%E2%80%9CCAVALLINO%20RAMPANTE%E2%80%9D%20SOLD%20NO%20RESERVEcontent" target="_blank">Ferrari "Prancing Horse"</a> (Cavallino Rampante) sculpture that graced Enzo Ferrari's office for twenty-five years. This is a one-of-a-kind piece and the king of Ferrari collectibles will be sold without reserve. It is scheduled to be lot number one and sold before the automobiles.<br />
<br />
Starting at 5:00 PM each day there will be a <a href="http://russoandsteele.com/index.php/memorabilia-sale" target="_blank">huge selection of certified ephemera</a> bearing the signatures of some of automobile history's greatest figures including Ford, Bentley, Chrysler, Ferrari, and Howard Hughes. All sales are without reserve.Terri Lynn Coophttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07290316565247120848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3859828246807799913.post-61310190415275576312012-08-05T17:59:00.002-07:002012-08-05T18:02:53.341-07:00Shining It On . . .<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu3V-CPyovNozDU7D_2oj9sZZ5cPvU57Gk9ltLC7Yv3pIr860eQd1sbjoRdJV7ChSghRB4KAi8oFkJCoYQGmwWYGN9N5fA6K4SdYtF5arVlatGBEe7YiCYH2Ug3TccNVypOTO0GODewvs/s1600/chrome1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu3V-CPyovNozDU7D_2oj9sZZ5cPvU57Gk9ltLC7Yv3pIr860eQd1sbjoRdJV7ChSghRB4KAi8oFkJCoYQGmwWYGN9N5fA6K4SdYtF5arVlatGBEe7YiCYH2Ug3TccNVypOTO0GODewvs/s320/chrome1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fancy Lady: (c) Terri Lynn Coop 2012</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I love chrome. Yes, I know the plastic bumper on my 1995 Mercury Tracer station wagon is safe, sane, and economical. Whatever . . . My heart and my eyes follow the fancy vintage ladies from Detroit loaded down with the shiny stuff. It's a little known fact that chrome makes your car go faster. True story . . . Trust me . . .<br />
<br />
Chrome plating was patented in the US in 1926 and car makers caught the bug over the next ten years. By the 1950s it seemed like the Big 3 auto makers were in competition to see who could hang the most chrome on their new models. If GDP could be measured in tail fins, then the US led the world.<br />
<br />
So, when I'm out and about, if a pretty lady catches my eye, I whip out my camera and snap her photo. This vintage Plymouth was basking in the sun outside my office building in Independence Kansas. Out comes my smart phone and she is part of my collection. Part restored, part vintage, she was a beauty. Not perfect, but stylish and classy. There were bigger cars in the parking lot and fancier ones, but she was the queen.<br />
<br />
When I look at newer cars, I am always bewildered by the lack of style. Look that the burgundy car in the upper corner. Sleek, streamlined, utilitarian and . . . meh . . . Then I realized what the problem was. It has no chrome! The uni-body style with the bumper incorporated into the body is, frankly, boring.<br />
<br />
Luckily, you don't have to have Jay Leno's garage to enjoy vintage chrome. Hood ornaments, grille badges, and side panel emblems are a great addition to any collection. <a href="http://carmemorabilia.about.com/od/Car-Memorabilia-101/a/Caring-For-Chrome-Automotive-Collectibles.htm" target="_blank">With a little care</a>, your house can shine like vintage Detroit on a sunny day.<br />
<br />Terri Lynn Coophttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07290316565247120848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3859828246807799913.post-1433766502749372972012-07-22T18:14:00.000-07:002012-08-04T22:15:38.902-07:00It's 1984 and Mustang was Turning 20!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5jzWfdJwSrUcJUu9t85T2e1rey4tJe6xuB2EBlEr3tHnqC0rR_ml2sq9gOJd_7qmjlbMFQFQmRJdDyuRfmBbt_V3Cp_NX46NE7Q3ZrHKPCMBbFe-hZSekGmeyJe8JnPhO0muZPdmquGc/s1600/20must1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5jzWfdJwSrUcJUu9t85T2e1rey4tJe6xuB2EBlEr3tHnqC0rR_ml2sq9gOJd_7qmjlbMFQFQmRJdDyuRfmBbt_V3Cp_NX46NE7Q3ZrHKPCMBbFe-hZSekGmeyJe8JnPhO0muZPdmquGc/s320/20must1.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1985 Ford Dealership Mustang Standee Side 1</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">A few years ago I attended what started out an as an auction, but turned into a battle-of-wills marathon.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The auction was the estate of one of the most successful Ford dealers in the Midwest and it ran over with rare an unusual pieces from the business.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The sale was a two-ring nine-hour marathon of unintended memorabilia. It wasn't that the family collected Ford memorabilia. It was that they never threw anything away. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">This treasure is a never used promotion standee intended for the dealership showroom. It advertises the 20th anniversary edition of the classic <a href="http://mustangs.about.com/od/history/a/generation-1.htm" target="_blank">1964 1/2 Mustang pony car</a>. The limited edition Mustang, produced in <a href="http://mustangs.about.com/od/history/a/generation-3.htm" target="_blank">1984</a>, came in Oxford White with a Canyon Red interior. It <span style="background-color: white;">had the original pony badge on the front fenders and came with a
plaque engraved with the owner's name and the vehicle's production number. </span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span style="background-color: white;">Overall it is about 16 by 44 inches. Each side
of the folded triangle would measure about 15 by 17 inches.</span></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<div span="span" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">
These backroom
pieces are always a rare find, especially in flat unpunched condition. Neither
the bottom flaps nor the side flaps have been creased. The entire unit is
nicely flat and the colors are vibrant. I've chosen to keep it flat and display
it on top of a shelving unit. However, carefully folded up and notched together
would not significantly detract from the value.
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Unusual pieces are often found at auctions. Businesses put extra
items in the backroom and forget about them, sometimes for decades. Be prepared
to be patient and dig through a lot of boxes. This beauty was in the barn. I'll
be posting more about this crazy auction. Stay tuned, it was not your everyday
sale. </span><span style="font-size: medium;"> Photos (c) Terri Lynn Coop 2012</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Yi2QuzvVxFamk9zj5lVJHJF8nrAd3asWIVqxDspTG4rvikFlZ4XO3YMtiguv4Gft6p9OV22EX9sROGS9z1tj7QzjYWuJXXiREcr6ygtPrM-rxNVKHBv0CrfiYOqA-T0XL6BkEFv41RY/s1600/20must2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9Yi2QuzvVxFamk9zj5lVJHJF8nrAd3asWIVqxDspTG4rvikFlZ4XO3YMtiguv4Gft6p9OV22EX9sROGS9z1tj7QzjYWuJXXiREcr6ygtPrM-rxNVKHBv0CrfiYOqA-T0XL6BkEFv41RY/s320/20must2.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1985 Ford Dealership Mustang Standee Side 2</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Terri Lynn Coophttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07290316565247120848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3859828246807799913.post-55168306947689693022012-07-16T18:20:00.000-07:002012-07-16T18:40:49.714-07:00Cop Car Cool<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiDX2L0ToiuDoreY-Mn4tW_Y2__PqsNyaHiCFHMmi73sGpLL9pd-3xZy5yWww3e1AEIPhuispY1VcrTUzvXEaDfcfTwYhSQeN2D1vPzmqMheCiy_eMO48qfsFgDq3V9Uz-nhIWOtQm9MY/s1600/pfrd5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiDX2L0ToiuDoreY-Mn4tW_Y2__PqsNyaHiCFHMmi73sGpLL9pd-3xZy5yWww3e1AEIPhuispY1VcrTUzvXEaDfcfTwYhSQeN2D1vPzmqMheCiy_eMO48qfsFgDq3V9Uz-nhIWOtQm9MY/s320/pfrd5.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1987 Ford Brochure: Photo (c) Terri Lynn Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
I like collecting advertising. The longer you read this blog
and my<a href="http://carmemorabilia.about.com/" target="_blank"> car memorabilia collecting site</a> you'll see that I talk about it quite a
bit. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To me, advertising often captures the essence of both the
item and the era. It also gives me clues about memorabilia and helps me
identify mystery items (That came in blue? Who knew?) Often overlooked by
collectors and pickers at auctions and estate sales, a patient and persistent
shopper can come away with boxes or bags of ephemera full of surprises.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I became a collector of vintage police car
advertising by accident. I was at an estate auction for a man who had been the
police chief of a small town in the 1980s and 1990s and was, frankly, a
hoarder. The sheer volume of boxes that came out of that small house was
staggering. The entire front yard and back yard was covered in boxes of books,
paper, model trains, and all manner of household goods. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Most of the buyers were there for the trains, so I was left
virtually alone to pick through the boxes of paper. Before long, I started
turning up all sorts of advertising and paperwork from his days as police
chief. I found equipment catalogs, weapon catalogs, and an entire expanding
file full of <a href="http://carmemorabilia.about.com/od/Ford/ig/Ford-Police-Package-Brochures/" target="_blank">brochures for police cars</a>, motorcycles, and ambulances. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://carmemorabilia.about.com/od/Ford/a/Ford-Motor-Company-Police-Vehicle-Brochures.htm" target="_blank">The brochures are amazing</a>, each a full-color capsule ofautomotive and law enforcement technology and history.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
While bidding was hot for the trains, I stood by and quietly
picked up most of the police paper for $1 - $2 per box. Also about a half
pallet of vintage SEARS catalogs, but that is a story for another day. Auctions
require feet of iron, nerves of steel, and a poker face worthy of Vegas.
However, they are a great way to add to and expand a collection. <o:p></o:p></div>Terri Lynn Coophttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07290316565247120848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3859828246807799913.post-57800497562914764682012-07-16T17:42:00.000-07:002012-07-16T18:20:51.388-07:00Art of Advertising<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjimkJvX6v7zIulMSsN20X715-J1kVxUV6L0b5uQ_hFfhUWDD16v0HUfsZoOkPnT4RGinX6D5XMuKd2Tw8XIEZ7TifzqAY2NEj_KDC7HPABUpiVUnDw7fBFl0OH9BaX_yjzH2enVPyyvlw/s1600/sampleart563vette.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ_UnY8sHDFL3mrIskXr1fAZfhS1Y2mx8u1b9DwXVLQpWVI12K65ywLCvkBoB0z7p__zgNLIFR9F5VIl7VmVkU4WIK5KKeB-pS1ryIMkP_R7tg5sF9V2vBwH-GIANUgZ8RUYj0D3DxAB8/s1600/sampleart260vette.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ_UnY8sHDFL3mrIskXr1fAZfhS1Y2mx8u1b9DwXVLQpWVI12K65ywLCvkBoB0z7p__zgNLIFR9F5VIl7VmVkU4WIK5KKeB-pS1ryIMkP_R7tg5sF9V2vBwH-GIANUgZ8RUYj0D3DxAB8/s320/sampleart260vette.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Car and Driver Magazine, Photo (c) Terri Lynn Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">For a car enthusiast and memorabilia collector, a gallery of art and
photography lurks in every automotive magazine. New magazines have slick
full-color spreads of what is new and hot. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">However, in my opinion, the real treasures are between the
covers of the vintage hot rod rags from the 1960s and 1970s. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The 1960s is when advertising changed emphasis from line drawing to photography and is
considered to be the <a href="http://www.pixel77.com/print-ad-designs-through-the-decades-the-60s/" target="_blank">"Creative Revolution"</a> and the birth of branding.
For the first time, cars and products were sold as lifestyle choices as much as
products. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">And it worked. The Corvette and the Cadillac are both cars. Four
wheels, seats, and chrome. However, they represent very different outlooks on
life and driving. This branding is what makes advertising art fun to collect. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><a href="http://www.caranddriver.com/" target="_blank">Car and Driver magazine</a> is one of my favorites. Founded in
1955 and originally called "Sports Cars Illustrated," Car and Driver
showcases the best in American cars and a solid sampling of foreign cars in
every issue. The magazine is a combination of reviews, buying guides, photo
spreads, and advertisements printed on nice quality glossy stock. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Individual vintage issues in decent "reader"
condition typically run $3 - $5 online and at collector shows. However, the key
is to always check through the boxes of magazines at garage sales, especially
if the sale includes tools or car stuff. I've picked up new car magazines for a
dime a piece and vintage 1960s beauties for $2 for a foot-thick stack. Always
check under the Popular Mechanic issues for the hidden hot rod treasures. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Don't leave inexpensive vintage magazines behind because
they aren't pristine. You have to take the good with the bad. Crumpled pages,
water damage, and missing covers are common. <a href="http://carmemorabilia.about.com/od/Automotive-Fine-Art/a/Vintage-Car-Advertisements-As-Wall-Art.htm" target="_blank">However, the prizes, the singlepage advertisements (tear sheets) are often intact and can be turned into high quality collectible art.</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">What is your favorite vintage automotive
advertising? The indestructible VW Bug? The sophisticated luxury cars? The
untamed hot rods? Let me know and I'll see what I can dig up for pictures.</span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">
</span>Terri Lynn Coophttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07290316565247120848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3859828246807799913.post-68305445058719047762012-07-16T14:51:00.000-07:002012-07-16T16:53:05.131-07:00Driving In Style<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMqNGy_YPLjldxwJ9KU7D9l-wFq9JKTquUe6JkF-CmLxi_CqXQ-3lJ7vihcM_PkvMN_rJxsR4w-Dq_3M8IvB3PyeI1YS6GV-NwybWz9ROEcGIeFz4dd6zuSfhsdkNTbQbmBAONiAC_-m0/s1600/bloghaangear2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMqNGy_YPLjldxwJ9KU7D9l-wFq9JKTquUe6JkF-CmLxi_CqXQ-3lJ7vihcM_PkvMN_rJxsR4w-Dq_3M8IvB3PyeI1YS6GV-NwybWz9ROEcGIeFz4dd6zuSfhsdkNTbQbmBAONiAC_-m0/s320/bloghaangear2.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1963 Car and Driver, Photo (c) Terri Lynn Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">In car culture, clothing invokes images and expectations. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Whether it's the rugged respect and individualism of a black leather motorcycle
jacket or the sleek poplin racer jumpsuit, when we see a driver in a certain
outfit, we have a vision of what kind of vehicle he owns.</span></span><br />
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Clothing makers have always capitalized on this tendency.
Garments and accessories like dusters and goggles had a practical application
in an open top Model T or roadster. However, they quickly morphed into style
statements by adding flowing scarves and stylish caps.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Starting in the post-WWII boom and the rise of car
hobbyists, magazines catered to enthusiasts with advertisements from<a href="http://carmemorabilia.about.com/od/Automotive-Clothing/a/Vintage-Car-Clothing-Vil-Em-B-Haan-Inc.htm" target="_blank"> specialtyapparel makers like Vilém B. Haan</a> and
Stirling Moss. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Whether a car collector or a memorabilia hobbyist, they promised
their customers a look rife with European class and élan. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">For the apparel
collector, ads are a good way to identify a garment or item found at an estate
sale or racks of a second-hand store. I am big on identifying and dating my
purchases. I don't just want to know that I found an MG logo lighter. I want to
be able to place it in the 1963 Car and Driver magazine Haan advertisement.
Finding it is half the fun. Identifying it is all the fun. </span></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbbHVKfEYs9NOyDfJxJNFP3G14iKk6j7MZVMqk8UWq372t4aB_igLjVkNEWRh__b1ilouUfTfVYZ8iAGT6w7fNq4O17O5EgErSXhZoGTGJUNuTPN0a6GpgxOdgl2A94xXoPyVP6HQduKY/s1600/bloghaangear.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbbHVKfEYs9NOyDfJxJNFP3G14iKk6j7MZVMqk8UWq372t4aB_igLjVkNEWRh__b1ilouUfTfVYZ8iAGT6w7fNq4O17O5EgErSXhZoGTGJUNuTPN0a6GpgxOdgl2A94xXoPyVP6HQduKY/s320/bloghaangear.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1963 Car and Driver, Photo (c) Terri Lynn Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span>Terri Lynn Coophttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07290316565247120848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3859828246807799913.post-3141593961333491652012-07-16T13:51:00.000-07:002012-07-16T17:45:38.342-07:00Taking It to the Redline<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVS3f0LOq8WnLJL_km2dc1yVwBq5xTf9JoJvSBrbvZVJpsTWBRij5hQ-UlA_aY5qH1FP-PHq1vwy1OSplJ3xdxrxK6jVTAy9-UwjyhbqZ_jpLJ2XyQp1viPhKb9XSWpKKrDunVRV9hgJs/s1600/hwjet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVS3f0LOq8WnLJL_km2dc1yVwBq5xTf9JoJvSBrbvZVJpsTWBRij5hQ-UlA_aY5qH1FP-PHq1vwy1OSplJ3xdxrxK6jVTAy9-UwjyhbqZ_jpLJ2XyQp1viPhKb9XSWpKKrDunVRV9hgJs/s320/hwjet.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">One of the Hot Wheels from my favorite score. Photo (c) Terri Coop</span> </span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<center style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">When I was a kid, every year for Christmas I asked for race
cars and Legos. As a girl, I usually got dishes and dolls. So, I played with
the cars the boys didn't want anymore (by the way, doll dishes make great jump
ramps in the sandbox).</span></center></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">As an adult, the only thing that has changed is that I can
eat dessert first and collect all the race cars I want.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Like most kids (grown
up and otherwise), I love Hot Wheels. Mattel introduced these 1:64<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><span style="background-color: white;">scale muscle mites in the 1960s and are still going strong more than half a century
later.</span></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Like most Hot Wheels enthusiasts,<a href="http://carmemorabilia.about.com/od/Models-And-Toys/a/Car-Memorabilia-As-Desk-Art-Mattel-Hot-Wheels.htm" target="_blank"> I have a fondness for redlines,the original series of Hot Wheels produced from 1968 to 1977.</a> Finding a redline
Hot Wheels is finding a piece of the past and a piece of my childhood.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Most collectors can tell you where every car on their shelf
came from. My biggest find or "score" of Hot Wheels redlines came
from a flea market in Claremore, Oklahoma. I was out with my husband digging
around when I saw several plastic silverware trays (you know what I mean, the ones
in your drawer with molded compartments for each utensil) in a dealer booth.
The trays were mixed with cheap toys and small appliances. They were tightly
wrapped in plastic film and the hand-written tag read "TOY CARS BOX -
$2.00"<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Quick look.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Stop.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Double take.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Closer look.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Happy Squeal!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">There were five trays and <b><i>they were full of redlines</i></b>.
About 50 in all. They weren't perfect. All were in what is called "good
played-with" condition. Didn't matter. They were redlines and they were
mine. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Many years later, this is still one of my favorite Hot
Wheels memories. What is yours?</span><o:p></o:p></div>
</div>Terri Lynn Coophttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07290316565247120848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3859828246807799913.post-64443012494297017732012-06-26T20:31:00.001-07:002012-06-26T20:33:03.939-07:00Have a Hallmark Hot-Rod Christmas<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Every April, Hallmark drops the Dreambook of Keepsake collectible
ornaments for that Christmas season. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For car collectors, gear heads, and the
people who love them (and never know what to buy them), it also means a sneak
peek at the newest muscle car ornament. For 2012, the 21<sup>st</sup> first
ornament in the “Classic American Car Series,” is the 1968 Ford Mustang GT. In
diecast metal with working wheels, this highly detailed muscle-mite is the
latest from legendary Hallmark designer Don Palmiter.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><br /></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://content.hallmark.com/koc-members/images/palmiter_list.pdf" target="_blank">Since 1991, Palmiter has created highly detailed miniatures for the classic cars Keepsake collection</a>. From the 1957 Chevy Bel Air, to the 1970 Plymouth Hemi
‘Cuda, to this year’s rendition of the 1968 Mustang GT; these ornaments are a
delightful and fun addition to any car collection. <span style="background-color: white;">Also check out the 1970
Chevrolet El Camino SS, the 17</span><sup style="background-color: white;">th</sup><span style="background-color: white;"> in the “All-American Trucks”
series.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Mustang ornament can be seen on page 45 of the <a href="http://content.hallmark.com/koc-members/images/KOC_DreamBook.pdf" target="_blank">2012 Hallmark Keepsake catalog</a>. Item number
QX8847. Suggested retail price $17.95.<o:p></o:p></div>Terri Lynn Coophttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07290316565247120848noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3859828246807799913.post-87770136953602986902012-06-26T20:27:00.000-07:002012-07-16T17:47:04.334-07:00Bobby Nolan – Hollywood Death Cheater<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKqBFVdwYsc-SeUGJhqR41NXFze9XhYSsVgwFSg5DbPN0-NpSarK_YNMwmJRMY1DifK-wxxWK6V3TyCUZZN_z0rbsmW9ospQrbycLZAKPCzlw8LUCa1bgCOUg4Sx5wn3eheOOyG5H1MqI/s1600/sampleblog1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKqBFVdwYsc-SeUGJhqR41NXFze9XhYSsVgwFSg5DbPN0-NpSarK_YNMwmJRMY1DifK-wxxWK6V3TyCUZZN_z0rbsmW9ospQrbycLZAKPCzlw8LUCa1bgCOUg4Sx5wn3eheOOyG5H1MqI/s320/sampleblog1.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1938 Event Poster: Photo (c) Terri Lynn Coop</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">One of the best parts of going to garage sales is finding
something odd and unusual for your collection that also absolutely stumps you.
A few years ago, I came across a promotional poster for daredevil driver,
“Bobby Nolan – Hollywood Death Cheater.” From July 25 to July 31, 1938, you
could see Bobby “Crashing 24 Inch Brick Wall At A Mile A Minute [sic].” He also
did the “Death Defying Ski Jump” and “Alternate Ski Jump” and it was all
“FREE-FREE-FREE.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">My Internet search for information turned up that Chippewa Lake Park was an
amusement park in Medina County Ohio. It operated continuously from 1878 until
it closed down for good in 1978. Fire scarred the structures and the park has
been completely demolished. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">However, I can’t find our anything about Bobby
Nolan – Hollywood Death Cheater. So, not only does this poster add an
interesting vintage touch to my car memorabilia collection, it also adds a
mystery that keeps me guessing every time I look at it.</span><o:p></o:p></div>Terri Lynn Coophttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07290316565247120848noreply@blogger.com3