Month: January 2022

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Jacksonville Car Culture events calendar January 19, 2022

Calling all classic Fords – the next Caffeine and Octane will feature Henry Ford’s (pre-1989) in a special display area of the Central Lot from 8 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, February 12, at The Avenues mall at 10300 Southside Blvd.

Submit your application to be considered for a reserved spot in this special section of the show at caffeineandoctane.com.

or simply click on: https://form.123formbuilder.com/6067165.

An estimated 1,000-plus cars, trucks and more are expected at the free cruise-in. And remember – Caffeine and Octane Jacksonville is an all makes, all models show, with all parking spots first come/first serve.

Cars should start arriving by 7 a.m. to the Southside Boulevard side of the shopping mall, the best way in through Malabar Boulevard.
As always, there will be a Porsche section, and an exotics area, as well as hundreds of vintage and classic cars, muscle cars and so much more.

Official Caffeine and Octane merchandise is on sale at all Caffeine and Octane Jacksonville events.

Event news

The Amelia is its new name, with a shiny new logo for the soon-to-be 27-year-old Concours d’Elegance. And racer and racing legend Chip Ganassi has been named as the honoree for The Amelia, set for Thursday, March 3 through Sunday, March 6, according to the event’s new owner, Hagerty.

The concours’ official RM Sotheby’s auction returns with lot previews from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday, March 3, and Friday, March 4, with an 11 a.m. Friday auction, all at the concours hotel: The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island, at 4750 Amelia Island Parkway. Some of the lots at the 23rd annual RM Sotheby’s Amelia auction include:

Of the many lots, here’s one: a 1985 Chevrolet Camaro IMSA GTO by Peerless Racing raced by multi-championship winner Jack Baldwin, the race cars a class awardee at the 2021 Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance.

And there is this 1930 Duesenberg Model J Convertible Sedan by Murphy with plum leather interior and dark blue coachwork.

For auction information, go to rmsothebys.com.

Saturday, March 5th’s big event is now called Cars & Community, a suite of things to do for all ages that will include the long-running Cars & Caffeine cruise-in for local and regional classics, hot rods and car clubs. Owners can register their rides here, then will be contacted to complete the reservation for the reserved spot and Cars & Community for $50.

There’s also a 1980s and ’90s-focused RADwood display and The Amelia’s first-ever Kids Zone.

The fun and low-brow Concours d’Lemons is part of the Saturday fun, and display vehicles can be registered for $15 each here at eventbrite.com/e/amelia-island-concours-dlemons-tickets-244581799747.

Cars & Community admission tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for youth as well as military and first responders, and free for children 12 and under. A portion of every Cars & Community ticket sold will support local and national charitable partners.

Hagerty/Deremer Studios

The Amelia’s seminars start with the 3 p.m. Friday “36 Hours of Florida,” hosted by NASCAR Hall of Fame Crew Chief Ray Evernham, featuring a panel of the greats of sports car racing who were very successful at the “36 Hours of Florida,” which included both the 24 Hours of Daytona and the 12 Hours of Sebring.

The NASCAR Seminar is at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, also hosted by Ray Evernham and a panel of former NASCAR greats speaking about racing through the decades.

Admission is $50 per person per seminar, information on all The Amelia events and tickets at ameliaconcours.com/event/tickets.

And of course, expect a celebration of the automobile featuring more than 300 vehicles at the Sunday Concours d’Elegance; special concours classes including anniversary celebrations of the 24 Hours of Daytona (60th) and the 12 Hours of Sebring (70th), as well as the 75th anniversary of Ferrari, 100th anniversary of Lincoln, and the 90th anniversary of the 1932 Ford. Additional concours features will include the 3-wheeled vehicles of the Davis Motorcar Company, Indy roadsters, aluminum Porsche race cars, Waterhouse Coachwork, and more.

Sunday Concours tickets are: Adults (ages 23+): $150, price increases to $175 on March 1, 2022; Military and First Responders: $85, with verification at check-in; Younger Enthusiasts (ages 13-22): $75; and children 12 and under are free. And a big FYI: every concours ticket purchase also includes free admission to Cars & Community.

Tickets for all concours events are also available at the website.

Sign up to be a Concours volunteer at ameliaconcours.com/event/volunteer.

Other events on Amelia Island that weekend not associated with The Amelia:

Grand Motoring Hangar Night is from 5 to 10 p.m. on Thursday March 3, at the Amelia Aerodrome at the Fernandina Beach Municipal Airport. Returning for its sixth year, attendees have hors d’oeuvres, dinner and cocktails surrounded by an assortment of classic and collector automobiles, sponsor exhibits, auto-centric short films and more. Individual tickets are $50, address and parking instructions provided to registered attendees. Tickets can be reserved here.

22nd Annual Riding Into History Antique Motorcycle Concours

Motorcycle designer Paul Teutul Jr. will be the Grand Marshal for the annual Riding Into History concours on April 22 and 23 at World Golf Village, 1 World Golf Place in St. Augustine. On Friday, April 22, it is the Grand Marshal Tour Presented by Hagerty, allowing owners to ride their vintage bike through the back roads of historic Florida. Then comes the Grand Marshals Dinner at 6 p.m. Friday, April 22, at the World Golf Hall of Fame, Shell Hall, at $80 per person. Then hundreds of classic and special interest motorcycles will be on display from 1 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, April 23, around the lake at World Golf Village. There is no entry fee for qualified motorcycles – Registration closes at midnight, April 14. All donations go to K9s for Warriors. More information is at ridingintohistory.org.

Hagerty/Motorsport Reg

SCCA Autocross and Car Show, co-hosted by The Brunswick Lions Club: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, February 26, at the former St. Marys Airport at North Dandy Street in St Marys, Ga. The show is free to spectators and $20 per show vehicle. The SCCA Buccaneer Region Jax Solo is holding the autocross – more information and registration at motorsportreg.com/events/scca-buccaneer-jax-solo-st-marys-municipal-airport-autocross-607711.

Now the Car Shows:

Relay for Life Rod Run: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday at the Northeast Florida Fair at 543378 U.S. 1 in Callahan. Hosted by the Callahan Cruisers of North Florida.

North Florida Legends Car Show: 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday at Dee’s Music Bar and Grill, 2141 Loch Rane Blvd. in Orange Park.

Knights of Columbus Council 13337 Charity Car Show: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 29, at The Classic Car Museum of St. Augustine, at 4730 U.S. 1 S./Dixie Highway South in St Augustine. Free for spectators and $25 for show vehicles day of show.

Yulee Coolee Floyd Garrett Memorial and Car Show: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 29, at Laytn’s Land-n at 67760 Owens Farm Road. The Garrett memorial starts at 10:30 a.m. in the barn. Donations will be collected for an automotive mechanic school scholarship.

Peterson’s Automotive Showcase: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 5, at the Frank H. Peterson Academies, 7450 Wilson Blvd. in Jacksonville. The show is free for spectators and $25 for show vehicles.

11th annual Fly-In and Classic Car Show: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday Feb. 5, at Palatka Airport, 4015 Reid St. Free for spectators and $10 entry fee for show vehicles.

2022 Jacksonville RV MegaShow: Hosted by the Florida RV Trade Association from Thursday, Feb. 10 through Sunday, Feb. 13, at the Jacksonville Equestrian Center at 13611 Normandy Blvd. Show hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Regular admission is $10 for adults and children 12 years or younger are admitted free.

10th annual Kruisin 4 Kids: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 26, at Dinsmore Baptist Church at 10500 Old Kings Road in Jacksonville. Burnout contests and barbecue chicken dinners for sale.

Troop and Pack 27 Car Show and Pinewood Derby: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 12, at Old Plank Road Baptist Church at 8964 Old Plank Road.

17th annual Railroad Day Festival and Classic Car Show: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 2, at the1881 Callahan Train Depot at 45383 Dixie Ave. in Callahan. Live entertainment, arts/crafts and food vendors, model trains and a classic car show hosted by Callahan Cruisers and Cochrane’s Collision Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. All proceeds will go to the West Nassau Historical Society.

Rumble at the Ranch – Hot Rod vs Rat Rod: May 5 through 7 at WW Motocross Park, 1439 Otis Road in Jacksonville. The event features burnout contests with a $1,500 purse, car show and other events.

Third annual Hot Rodz 4 Kids Car and Bike Show: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday May 28, at First United Methodist Church of Callahan, 449648 U.S. 301. Proceeds go to children’s medical, educational and nutritional needs.

The FIRM (Florida International Rally and Moto Park): Open Track Days held most weekends at the road course and rally course at 7266 Airport Road in Starke.

All the Cruise-ins

First Coast Car Council, Clay County Cruzers, Callahan Cruisers and Amelia Cruizers all hold regular weekend cruise-ins, so check their Facebook pages.

Caffeine and Octane Jacksonville: 8 to 11 a.m. every second Saturday at The Avenues Mall at 10300 Southside Blvd. Information: https://bit.ly/3gPRvVQ.

Historic Springfield Main Street Cruise: 4 p.m. every fourth Saturday between 8th and 17th streets at Main Street in Jacksonville’s Springfield community.

Cruise Fruit Cove: 4 to 8 p.m. every third Saturday at the PDQ at 194 Florida 13 in Saint Johns, just south of Julington Creek.

Amelia Cruizers: 4 to 7 p.m. every third Saturday at Cold Stone Creamery, 808 Sadler Road, Fernandina Beach.

Classic Car Museum of St. Augustine monthly cruise-ins: St. Augustine Cruiser’s “Cruise In” from 5 to 7 p.m. every third Saturday, and Cars and Coffee from 8 to 10 a.m. every fourth Saturday resuming on Nov. 27 (see above), both at 4730 U.S. 1 S./Dixie Highway South in St Augustine.

Cars and Coffee Fleming Island: 7 to 10 a.m. every third Sunday of the month at the New Vision Theatre at 1820 Town Center Blvd., Fleming Island.

Johnny Angels: 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. every third Friday at Johnny Angels diner at 3546 St. Johns Bluff Road S. 

The First Coast Car Council holds its newest cruise-in from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. every first Saturday at The Beaver Street Farmers Market, 1810 W. Beaver St. And its cruise-in from 5 to 8 p.m. every second Saturday returns at the Medical & Merchants Center of Mandarin, 11701 San Jose Blvd.

Clay County Cruzers’ events: 3 to 6 p.m. every first Saturday at Big Dawg Sports Restaurant, 1330 Blanding Blvd.; 3 to 6 p.m. every second Saturday at Gator’s Dockside Oakleaf at 8316 Merchants Way, Jacksonville; 5 p.m. every third Friday at Freddy’s Steakburgers at 386 Blanding Blvd.; 9 to 11 a.m. every fourth Saturday at Nicole’s Café, 2216 S. Mimosa Ave. in Middleburg; and 2 to 5 p.m. every fourth Saturday back at Gator’s Dockside Oakleaf, 316 Merchants Way, Jacksonville.

Cruise Night at Beachwalk: cancelled

Jacksonville Caffeine and Gasoline: 7 to 10 a.m. on every first Saturday at the Orange Park Mall at 1910 Wells Road in Orange Park.

The Part’s House/The Brothers Banter Podcast Cruise-in: The renamed White Brothers Auto Parts Cruise-in at the same time – 5 to 8 p.m. every second Friday at 405 Lane Ave. N.

NEW – Auto Legends Amelia Cars and Coffee: 9 a.m. to noon every second Saturday at Mocama Beer Company, 629 S. 8th St. in Fernandina Beach.

And finally…

Toyota Gazoo Racing and Lexus exhibited some wild stuff at the recent Tokyo Auto Salon 2022, and one was a Batmobile-like GR GT3 Concept TGR, which the company shows that it is “committed to further accelerating customer motorsports activities to make the world of motorsports sustainable.”

Promoting “driver first” car development with a “desire to provide attractive cars” for customers participating in GT3, there isn’t much more info on the sleek back car. But it does have side exhausts along with a plethora of ground effects. And while it’s a race car concept only, could a street-legal version be in the offing?

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904 EVENTS CALENDAR JANUARY 12, 2022

Jacksonville Car Culture events calendar

Hundreds of cars and spectators enjoyed a crisp morning at last Saturday’s Caffeine and Octane as classic pickup trucks were just a part of the fun from the First Coast Car Council, which was the club of the month. But then there were MOPARS, and Lamborghinis, and lots of exotics with wings.

Then there was this long-nose, chopped cabin hot rod 1934 Buick, we are told, with a very appropriate license plate and an oh-so-grand interior for two.

And since last Saturday’s highlight at Caffeine and Octane Jacksonville were Classic Japanese Vehicles, many were in a special display within the Central Lot, like a rare Ariel Atom with Acura powerplant, multiple Datsun/Nissan Zs, a retro-styled three-door hatchback 1990’s Nissan Pao, some more modern Hondas and Toyotas, and a stunning Datsun 510.

The next Caffeine and Octane is from 8 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, February 12, at The Avenues mall’s south side at 10300 Southside Blvd., an estimated 1,000-plus cars, trucks and more expected at the free cruise-in. And remember – Caffeine and Octane Jacksonville is an all makes, all models show, with all parking spots first come/first serve.

Cars should start arriving by 7 a.m. to the Southside Boulevard side of the shopping mall, the best way in through Malabar Boulevard.
As always, there will be a Porsche section, and an exotics area, as well as hundreds of vintage and classic cars, muscle cars and so much more.

Official Caffeine and Octane merchandise is on sale at all Caffeine and Octane Jacksonville events.

Event news

The Amelia is its new name, with a new logo for the soon-to-be 27-year-old Concours d’Elegance. And racer and racing legend Chip Ganassi has been named as the honoree for The Amelia, set for Thursday, March 3 through Sunday, March 6, according to the event’s new owner, Hagerty.

“Honoring a hero from the racing community is an important component of The Amelia DNA. From the inaugural honoree, Sir Stirling Moss, to the recent celebration of Lyn St. James, The Amelia has anchored the celebration of the automobile to the incredible people who have devoted their lives as ambassadors for driving,” Hagerty CEO McKeel Hagerty said. “We are thrilled that Chip Ganassi accepted our invitation. His racing legacy represents Hagerty’s love of driving and passion for the wellness of others.”

Compliments of Chip Ganassi Racing

Ganassi has is a familiar name in motorsports, fielding very successful teams in everything from the 24 Hours of Le Mans to IndyCar, NASCAR, the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and Extreme E. A former IndyCar driver himself, he founded Chip Ganassi Racing in 1990, among his many accomplishments becoming the only team to win the Daytona 500, Indianapolis 500, NASCAR’s Brickyard 400 and the 24 Hours of Daytona, in a 12-month span.

Other updates –Saturday, March 5th’s big event is now called Cars & Community, a suite of things to do for all ages that will include the long-running, renamed Cars & Caffeine, plus a 1980s and ’90s-focused RADwood display, the fun and low-brow Concours d’Lemons, and The Amelia’s first-ever Kids Zone. Cars & Community tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for youth as well as military and first responders, and free for children 12 and under. A portion of every Cars & Community ticket sold will support local and national charitable partners.

Hagerty/Deremer Studios

A NASCAR Saturday Seminar hosted by Ray Evernham is scheduled, as well as the long-running RM Sotheby’s auction, and the annual Silent Auction.

And of course, expect a celebration of the automobile featuring more than 300 vehicles at the Sunday Concours d’Elegance; special concours classes including anniversary celebrations of the 24 Hours of Daytona (60th) and the 12 Hours of Sebring (70th), as well as the 75th anniversary of Ferrari, 100th anniversary of Lincoln, and the 90th anniversary of the 1932 Ford.

Additional concours features will include the interesting 3-wheeled vehicles of the Davis Motorcar Company.

A 1947 Davis Divan

Other special classes: Indy roadsters, aluminum Porsche race cars, Waterhouse Coachwork, and more.

Sunday Concours tickets are: Adults (ages 23+): $150, price increases to $175 on March 1, 2022; Military and First Responders: $85, with verification at check-in; Younger Enthusiasts (ages 13-22): $75; and children 12 and under are free. And a big FYI: every concours ticket purchase also includes free admission to Cars & Community.

Tickets for all concours events are also available at the website.

Sign up to be a Concours volunteer at ameliaconcours.com/event/volunteer.

Now the Car Shows:

Relay for Life Rod Run: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 22 at the Northeast Florida Fair at 543378 U.S. 1 in Callahan. Hosted by the Callahan Cruisers of North Florida.

North Florida Legends Car Show: 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 22, at Dee’s Music Bar and Grill, 2141 Loch Rane Blvd. in Orange Park.

Knights of Columbus Council 13337 Charity Car Show: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 29, at The Classic Car Museum of St. Augustine, at 4730 U.S. 1 S./Dixie Highway South in St Augustine. Free for spectators and $25 for show vehicles day of show.

Yulee Coolee Floyd Garrett Memorial and Car Show: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 29, at Laytn’s Land-n at 67760 Owens Farm Road. The Garrett memorial starts at 10:30 a.m. in the barn. Donations will be collected for an automotive mechanic school scholarship.

Peterson’s Automotive Showcase: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 5, at the Frank H. Peterson Academies, 7450 Wilson Blvd. in Jacksonville. The show is free for spectators and $25 for show vehicles.

2022 Jacksonville RV MegaShow: Hosted by the Florida RV Trade Association from Thursday, Feb. 10 through Sunday, Feb. 13, at the Jacksonville Equestrian Center at 13611 Normandy Blvd. Show hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Regular admission is $10 for adults and children 12 years or younger are admitted free.

10th annual Kruisin 4 Kids: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 26, at Dinsmore Baptist Church at 10500 Old Kings Road in Jacksonville. Burnout contests and barbecue chicken dinners for sale.

17th annual Railroad Day Festival and Classic Car Show: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 2, at the1881 Callahan Train Depot at 45383 Dixie Ave. in Callahan. Live entertainment, arts/crafts and food vendors, model trains and a classic car show hosted by Callahan Cruisers and Cochrane’s Collision Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. All proceeds will go to the West Nassau Historical Society.

Rumble at the Ranch – Hot Rod vs Rat Rod: May 5 through 7 at WW Motocross Park, 1439 Otis Road in Jacksonville. The event features burnout contests with a $1,500 purse, car show and other events.

Third annual Hot Rodz 4 Kids Car and Bike Show: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday May 28, at First United Methodist Church of Callahan, 449648 U.S. 301. Proceeds go to children’s medical, educational and nutritional needs.

The FIRM (Florida International Rally and Moto Park): Open Track Days held most weekends at the road course and rally course at 7266 Airport Road in Starke.

All the Cruise-ins

First Coast Car Council, Clay County Cruzers, Callahan Cruisers and Amelia Cruizers all hold regular weekend cruise-ins, so check their Facebook pages.

Caffeine and Octane Jacksonville: 8 to 11 a.m. every second Saturday at The Avenues Mall at 10300 Southside Blvd. Information: https://bit.ly/3gPRvVQ.

Cruise Fruit Cove: 4 to 8 p.m. every third Saturday at the PDQ at 194 Florida 13 in Saint Johns, just south of Julington Creek.

Sinister Saturday: 8 p.m. on Saturday at the Buc-ee’s at 200 World Commerce Parkway in St. Augustine. Hosted by the Sinister Horseman Car Club.

Amelia Cruizers: 4 to 7 p.m. every third Saturday at Cold Stone Creamery, 808 Sadler Road, Fernandina Beach.

Classic Car Museum of St. Augustine monthly cruise-ins: St. Augustine Cruiser’s “Cruise In” from 5 to 7 p.m. every third Saturday, and Cars and Coffee from 8 to 10 a.m. every fourth Saturday resuming on Nov. 27 (see above), both at 4730 U.S. 1 S./Dixie Highway South in St Augustine.

Cars and Coffee Fleming Island: 7 to 10 a.m. every third Sunday of the month at the New Vision Theatre at 1820 Town Center Blvd., Fleming Island.

Johnny Angels: 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. every third Friday at Johnny Angels diner at 3546 St. Johns Bluff Road S. 

The First Coast Car Council holds its newest cruise-in from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. every first Saturday at The Beaver Street Farmers Market, 1810 W. Beaver St. And its cruise-in from 5 to 8 p.m. every second Saturday returns at the Medical & Merchants Center of Mandarin, 11701 San Jose Blvd.

Clay County Cruzers’ events: 3 to 6 p.m. every first Saturday at Big Dawg Sports Restaurant, 1330 Blanding Blvd.; 3 to 6 p.m. every second Saturday at Gator’s Dockside Oakleaf at 8316 Merchants Way, Jacksonville; 5 p.m. every third Friday at Freddy’s Steakburgers at 386 Blanding Blvd.; 9 to 11 a.m. every fourth Saturday at Nicole’s Café, 2216 S. Mimosa Ave. in Middleburg; and 2 to 5 p.m. every fourth Saturday back at Gator’s Dockside Oakleaf, 316 Merchants Way, Jacksonville.

Cruise Night at Beachwalk: cancelled

Jacksonville Caffeine and Gasoline: 7 to 10 a.m. on every first Saturday at the Orange Park Mall at 1910 Wells Road in Orange Park.

The Part’s House/The Brothers Banter Podcast Cruise-in: The renamed White Brothers Auto Parts Cruise-in at the same time – 5 to 8 p.m. every second Friday at 405 Lane Ave. N.

NEW – Auto Legends Amelia Cars and Coffee: 9 a.m. to noon every second Saturday at Mocama Beer Company, 629 S. 8th St. in Fernandina Beach.

Historic Springfield Main Street Cruise: 4 p.m. every fourth Saturday between 8th and 17th streets at Main Street in Jacksonville’s Springfield community.

And finally….

The DriveTribe blog, an online social media site for gearheads for the past five years created by the gang at The Grand Tour – you know, the former Top Gear trio – will close up shop at the end of this month. In announcing the move this week, DriveTribe said it’s been “facing significant industry challenges” for many months, plus the protracted global shortage of computer chips has caused “a number of challenges for the automotive industry, and led to severe reductions in marketing budgets across the industry.”

That said, the Grand Tour’s own Hammie – Richard Hammond – will be keeping the DriveTribe community alive through its social media channels with video reviews, his new projects including his Smallest Cog Workshop, and even some appearances by Jeremy and James from time to time. Hammond even promised he’s revisiting a jet dragster that almost killed him – watch his video for the rest of the news.

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904 Events Calendar January 5, 2022

Jacksonville Car Culture events calendar

Caffeine and Octane Jacksonville: It is time to highlight Classic Japanese Vehicles in a special display within the Central Lot at the next C&O, from 8 to 11 a.m. on Saturday at The Avenues mall’s south side at 10300 Southside Blvd.

Submit your ride for consideration here to join the estimated 1,000-plus cars, trucks and more at the free cruise-in. And remember – Caffeine and Octane Jacksonville is an all makes, all models show, with all parking spots first come/first serve.

Cars should start arriving by 7 a.m. to the Southside Boulevard side of the shopping mall, the best way in through Malabar Boulevard.
As always, there will be a Porsche section, and an exotics area, as well as hundreds of vintage and classic cars, muscle cars and so much more.

Official Caffeine and Octane merchandise is on sale at all Caffeine and Octane Jacksonville events.

Check out more at firstcoastcarculture.com.

First Coast Car Council’s newest cruise-in, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. every first Saturday at The Beaver Street Farmers Market, saw some New Year’s Day action at 1810 W. Beaver St. last weekend.

Sunshine State Chevelle’s President Chris Conover was snapped as he drove Goldie, his just-restored classic, to the event:

First Coast Car Council president Lon Greenwood (left) talks to Jacksonville (First Coast) Car Culture’s Chris Brewer after he and family arrived in two Zs.

And the farmers market lot was filled with everything from a V-12 Aston Martin to rat rods, classics and hot rods.

Event news

The Amelia – it has a new name and a new logo just in time for the soon-to-be 27-year-old Concours d’Elegance: Watch this website – https://www.ameliaconcours.com – as tickets for The Amelia, set forThursday, March 3 through Sunday, March 6, go on sale in January.

Events now listed on the website include: Saturday’s Cars & Community, a celebration of the automobile featuring more than 300 vehicles on the same show field used for Sunday’s Concours d’Elegance; and a NASCAR Saturday Seminar hosted by Ray Evernham. The RM Sotheby’s auction, as well as the annual Silent Auction, will both be back in 2022.

Sign up to be a Concours volunteer at ameliaconcours.com/event/volunteer. More information on how to reserve spots for those events, as well as many others, is coming.

Nate Deremer photo

Bill and Jane Warner, founders of the award-winning 26-year-old Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance, now known as “The Amelia,” have been named Hagerty Grand Marshals for Sports Car Market Magazine’s 2022 SCM 1000 Classic.

The SCM 1000 Classic is a 1000-mile tour on Oregon’s scenic two-lane roads for classic American and European sports cars, limited to 45 vehicles as they explore the Columbia River Gorge and other highlights. Warner is a former motorsports photojournalist, race-car driver and an avid classic and significant car collector who handed The Amelia’s “keys” to Hagerty, which will now host the event with the purpose of saving driving and car culture for future generations.

“We are thrilled to have Bill and Jane Warner, as the Hagerty Grand Marshals,” SCM publisher Keith Martin said. “Bill’s passion for racing and cars has impacted the car collector and racing community in such a profound way. The Amelia Island Concours has become the playbook for other concours to follow.”

“I am honored that Keith has invited Jane and me to be the Hagerty Grand Marshals for the SCM 1000 Classic,” Warner said. “Jane is the patient and ever supportive wife of 55 years. Without her, things would not have been so fortuitous for me.”

The 6-day SCM 1000 Classic takes place July 17 to 22, featuring the cars of Italy through 1974, with others accepted by application. Registration is available at scm1000.com. The tour benefits the Oregon Wildfire Relief Fund.

The Warners will present “The Spirit of Amelia” award to the tour participants and car that most represent the enthusiasm and elegance of “The Amelia”

2022 Jacksonville RV MegaShow: Hosted by the Florida RV Trade Association from Thursday, Feb. 10 through Sunday, Feb. 13, at the Jacksonville Equestrian Center at 13611 Normandy Blvd. Show hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Regular admission is $10 for adults and children 12 years or younger are admitted free. Active and retired military and first responders receive half-off the regular admission. Hundreds of new recreational vehicles will be on display. The February event marks the 13th consecutive year the show has been held at the Jacksonville Equestrian Center.

Now the Car Shows:

Third annual Car Show: 8 a.m. Saturday at the Suwanee County Coliseum, 1302 11th St. in Live Oak. Proceeds support RIVEROAK SkillsUSA for local veterans.

Amelia Cruizers Car Show: noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday at Townies Pizza, 819 T.J. Courson Rd, Fernandina Beach

Relay for Life Rod Run: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 22 at the Northeast Florida Fair at 543378 U.S. 1 in Callahan. Hosted by the Callahan Cruisers of North Florida.

North Florida Legends Car Show: 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 22, at Dee’s Music Bar and Grill, 2141 Loch Rane Blvd. in Orange Park.

Knights of Columbus Council 13337 Charity Car Show: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 29, at The Classic Car Museum of St. Augustine, at 4730 U.S. 1 S./Dixie Highway South in St Augustine. Free for spectators and $25 for show vehicles day of show.

Peterson’s Automotive Showcase: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 5, at the Frank H. Peterson Academies, 7450 Wilson Blvd. in Jacksonville. The show is free for spectators and $25 for show vehicles.

Rumble at the Ranch – Hot Rod vs Rat Rod: May 5 through 7 at WW Motocross Park, 1439 Otis Road in Jacksonville. The event features burnout contests with a $1,500 purse, car show and other events.

The FIRM (Florida International Rally and Moto Park): Open Track Days held most weekends at the road course and rally course at 7266 Airport Road in Starke.

All the Cruise-ins

First Coast Car Council, Clay County Cruzers, Callahan Cruisers and Amelia Cruizers all hold regular weekend cruise-ins, so check their Facebook pages.

Caffeine and Octane Jacksonville: 8 to 11 a.m. every second Saturday at The Avenues Mall at 10300 Southside Blvd. 

The First Coast Car Council holds its newest cruise-in from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. every first Saturday at The Beaver Street Farmers Market, 1810 W. Beaver St. UPDATE: The Car Council’s second Saturday cruise-in suspended through the end of the year.

Clay County Cruzers’ events: 3 to 6 p.m. every first Saturday at Big Dawg Sports Restaurant, 1330 Blanding Blvd.; 3 to 6 p.m. every second Saturday at Gator’s Dockside Oakleaf at 8316 Merchants Way, Jacksonville; 5 p.m. every third Friday at Freddy’s Steakburgers at 386 Blanding Blvd.; 9 to 11 a.m. every fourth Saturday at Nicole’s Café, 2216 S. Mimosa Ave. in Middleburg; and 2 to 5 p.m. every fourth Saturday back at Gator’s Dockside Oakleaf, 316 Merchants Way, Jacksonville.

Cruise Night at Beachwalk: 5 to 8 p.m. every second Friday at the Beachwalk Amenity Center, 1000 County Road 210 in St. Johns.

Cruise Fruit Cove: 4 to 8 p.m. every third Saturday at the PDQ at 194 Florida 13 in Saint Johns, just south of Julington Creek.

Amelia Cruizers: 4 to 7 p.m. every third Saturday at Cold Stone Creamery, 808 Sadler Road, Fernandina Beach.

Jacksonville Caffeine and Gasoline: 7 to 10 a.m. on every first Saturday at the Orange Park Mall at 1910 Wells Road in Orange Park.

The Part’s House/The Brothers Banter Podcast Cruise-in: The renamed White Brothers Auto Parts Cruise-in at the same time – 5 to 8 p.m. every second Friday at 405 Lane Ave. N.

NEW – Auto Legends Amelia Cars and Coffee: 9 a.m. to noon every second Saturday at Mocama Beer Company, 629 S. 8th St. in Fernandina Beach.

Classic Car Museum of St. Augustine monthly cruise-ins: St. Augustine Cruiser’s “Cruise In” from 5 to 7 p.m. every third Saturday, and Cars and Coffee from 8 to 10 a.m. every fourth Saturday resuming on Nov. 27 (see above), both at 4730 U.S. 1 S./Dixie Highway South in St Augustine.

Cars and Coffee Fleming Island: 7 to 10 a.m. every third Sunday of the month at the New Vision Theatre at 1820 Town Center Blvd., Fleming Island.

Johnny Angels: 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. every third Friday at Johnny Angels diner at 3546 St. Johns Bluff Road S. 

Historic Springfield Main Street Cruise: 4 p.m. every fourth Saturday between 8th and 17th streets at Main Street in Jacksonville’s Springfield community.

And finally….

There’s a new blog in town for folks who groove on EVs (electric vehicles), slickly done by gearhead and retired journalist Bill Bortzfield. Called EV Rider – https://www.facebook.com/EVRiderFL –  Bill’s blog looks at folks who have gone solar with an EV as well as a long-term test of his own 2021 MINI Cooper SE EV. Bill updates charging station status, looks at some new EV ATVs and motorcycles, and more.

Courtesy of Mercedes-Benz

Speaking of EVs, here’s Mercedes-Benz’s latest: VISION EQXX.

M-B says a single charge “would take you from Berlin to Paris; from New York City to Cincinnati, Ohio; or from Beijing to Nanjing.” That’s because the concept is highly efficient.

“Based on average distances driven per year, a driver in the U.S. or China would have to fully recharge the VISION EQXX only twice per month, and in Europe, just once per month,” Mercedes-Benz said. “It is the result of a mission we set to break through technological barriers and lift energy efficiency to new heights.”

The company says the very aero concept sedan can do more than 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) on a single charge using a battery that would fit even into a compact vehicle. It has energy consumption of less than 10 kWh per 100 kilometers (or more than 6 miles per kWh). output of around 150 kW. Its drive unit consists of the electric motor, transmission and power electronics featuring a new generation of silicon carbides. Inside, a dashboard-wide screen and sustainable materials from mushrooms to bamboo, cactus and vegan silk.

Posted on

904 EVENTS CALENDAR DECEMBER 29, 2021

Happy New Year’s edition!

Caffeine and Octane Jacksonville: Attention, all those owners of Crowns and Ceras, of GT-Rs and HiJets, of Autozams and Beats – it is almost time to highlight Classic Japanese Vehicles in a special display within the Central Lot at the next C&O, from 8 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 8 at The Avenues mall’s south side at 10300 Southside Blvd.

Submit your ride for consideration here to join the estimated 1,000-plus cars, trucks and more at the free cruise-in. And remember – Caffeine and Octane Jacksonville is an all makes, all models show, with all parking spots first come/first serve.

Cars should start arriving by 7 a.m. to the Southside Boulevard side of the shopping mall, the best way in through Malabar Boulevard.
As always, there will be a Porsche section, and an exotics area, as well as hundreds of vintage and classic cars, muscle cars and so much more.

Official Caffeine and Octane merchandise is on sale at all Caffeine and Octane Jacksonville events.

Event news

Mecum Auctions

What could be the most legendary lead sled of them all, the 1951 Hirohata Mercury Coupe, is coming up for auction in Florida. And the sleek 2-tone coupe will have a sales estimate of $1 million to $1.25 million when it rolls onto the stage at the Saturday, Jan. 15 Mecum’s Kissimmee Auction.

The name “lead sled” came from the fact that customizers dropped, chopped and channeled Ford Chief Designer Bob Gregorie’s sleek 1949 Mercury design, using lead to smooth out its lines as they lowered the top for an even more dropped look. The Mercury, the centerpiece of a historic Great Mercury Customs class at the 2004 Amelia Island Concours, was named for original owner Bob Hirohata of Los Angeles, and custom built by Sam and George Barris. Seen in major car magazines of the day, like Hot Rod and Hop Up, it appeared in the 1955 film “Running Wild” starring Mamie Van Doren.

“The purpose of taking a production car was not that it wasn’t beautiful, but I wanted it to be different, look different and make it more aerodynamic. I wanted to proportion it within reason, not just because we lowered the top, or sectioned the body or got it low to the ground, but it had to have the perspective of being unique, attractive and aspirational to the people who look at it,” Barris told the Florida Times-Union in a story about the Hirohata Merc. “In my period, it was what we called pioneering. We had to pioneer customizing. Custom is spelled with a ‘C.’ When I did my cars, it stated with a ‘k.’ If I am going to change the car, I have to change the word.”

Californian Jim McNiel owned the spectacular 1951 Mercury Hirohata coupe since 1959, but his family is selling it after his death.

“It has been everywhere. I dated my wife in it. It has been part of me all these years,” he told the Times-Union in 2004. “It’s about time that people realize the amount of workmanship that went into these. This was young American kids doing what they thought was cool in the ’50s. George knew what was cool, and he captured that in what he built. All of these cars here are beautiful. They all have something unique, and it is the first time they have all been together.”

The coupe was radically re-sculpted by the King of Kalifornia Kustoms’ shop – 4 inches taken from the roof up front and 7 in the rear, a butted, V-type windshield finished the upper structure changes. Frenched Ford headlights and Lincoln taillights were added, plus 1952 Buick Riviera side spears with customized door skins and fender skirts. In recent years, the car was added to the National Historic Vehicle Register and displayed for a week in a glass enclosure on the National Mall in Washington D.C.

Car collector and historian Wayne Carini guides us through the classic coupe and its history in a Mecum video. And check out the full story on how the car came to be from Hagerty.

Speaking of The Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance: Watch this website – https://www.ameliaconcours.com – as tickets for the 27th annual Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance, set forThursday, March 3 through Sunday, March 6, go on sale in January.

Events now listed on the website include: Saturday’s Cars & Community, a celebration of the automobile featuring more than 300 vehicles on the same show field used for Sunday’s Concours d’Elegance; and a NASCAR Saturday Seminar hosted by Ray Evernham. The RM Sotheby’s auction, as well as the annual Silent Auction, will both be back in 2022.

Sign up to be a Concours volunteer at ameliaconcours.com/event/volunteer. More information on how to reserve spots for those events, as well as many others, is coming.

Now the Car Shows:

Third annual Car Show: 8 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 8 at the Suwanee County Coliseum, 1302 11th St. in Live Oak. Proceeds support RIVEROAK SkillsUSA for local veterans.

Amelia Cruizers Car Show: noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 8, at Townies Pizza, 819 T.J. Courson Rd, Fernandina Beach

Relay for Life Rod Run: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 22 at the Northeast Florida Fair at 543378 U.S. 1 in Callahan. Hosted by the Callahan Cruisers of North Florida.

Knights of Columbus Council 13337 Charity Car Show: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 29, at The Classic Car Museum of St. Augustine, at 4730 U.S. 1 S./Dixie Highway South in St Augustine. Free for spectators and $25 for show vehicles day of show.

Peterson’s Automotive Showcase: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 5, at the Frank H. Peterson Academies, 7450 Wilson Blvd. in Jacksonville. The show is free for spectators and $25 for show vehicles.

Rumble at the Ranch – Hot Rod vs Rat Rod: May 5 through 7 at WW Motocross Park, 1439 Otis Road in Jacksonville. The event features burnout contests with a $1,500 purse, car show and other events. More info to follow at facebook.com/events/1252072518622329.ref=newsfeed.

The FIRM (Florida International Rally and Moto Park): Open Track Days held most weekends at the road course and rally course at 7266 Airport Road in Starke.

All the Cruise-ins

First Coast Car Council, Clay County Cruzers, Callahan Cruisers and Amelia Cruizers all hold regular weekend cruise-ins, so check their Facebook pages.

Jacksonville Caffeine and Gasoline: 7 to 10 a.m. on every first Saturday at the Orange Park Mall at 1910 Wells Road in Orange Park.

Happy New Years – the First Coast Car Council holds its newest cruise-in from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. this and every first Saturday at The Beaver Street Farmers Market, 1810 W. Beaver St. UPDATE: The Car Council’s second Saturday cruise-in suspended through the end of the year.

Clay County Cruzers’ events: 3 to 6 p.m. every first Saturday at Big Dawg Sports Restaurant, 1330 Blanding Blvd.; 3 to 6 p.m. every second Saturday at Dick’s Wings, 1803 East-West Parkway in Fleming Island; 5 p.m. every third Friday at Freddy’s Steakburgers at 386 Blanding Blvd.; 9 to 11 a.m. every fourth Saturday at Nicole’s Café, 2216 S. Mimosa Ave. in Middleburg; and 2 to 5 p.m. every fourth Saturday at Gator’s Dockside Oakleaf, 316 Merchants Way, Jacksonville.

The Part’s House/The Brothers Banter Podcast Cruise-in: The renamed White Brothers Auto Parts Cruise-in at the same time – 5 to 8 p.m. every second Friday at 405 Lane Ave. N.

NEW – Auto Legends Amelia Cars and Coffee: 9 a.m. to noon every second Saturday at Mocama Beer Company, 629 S. 8th St. in Fernandina Beach.

Cruise Night at Beachwalk: 5 to 8 p.m. every second Friday at the Beachwalk Amenity Center, 1000 County Road 210 in St. Johns.

Caffeine and Octane Jacksonville: 8 to 11 a.m. every second Saturday at The Avenues Mall at 10300 Southside Blvd. Information: https://bit.ly/3gPRvVQ.

Cruise Fruit Cove: 4 to 8 p.m. every third Saturday at the PDQ at 194 Florida 13 in Saint Johns, just south of Julington Creek.

Amelia Cruizers: 4 to 7 p.m. every third Saturday at Cold Stone Creamery, 808 Sadler Road, Fernandina Beach.

Classic Car Museum of St. Augustine monthly cruise-ins: St. Augustine Cruiser’s “Cruise In” from 5 to 7 p.m. every third Saturday, and Cars and Coffee from 8 to 10 a.m. every fourth Saturday resuming on Nov. 27 (see above), both at 4730 U.S. 1 S./Dixie Highway South in St Augustine.

Cars and Coffee Fleming Island: 7 to 10 a.m. every third Sunday of the month at the New Vision Theatre at 1820 Town Center Blvd., Fleming Island.

Johnny Angels: 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. every third Friday at Johnny Angels diner at 3546 St. Johns Bluff Road S. 

Historic Springfield Main Street Cruise: 4 p.m. every fourth Saturday between 8th and 17th streets at Main Street in Jacksonville’s Springfield community.

And finally….

By now, everyone has seen the 1946 classic, “It’s A Wonderful Life,” and remembers George Bailey (Jimmy Stewart) crashing his 1010 Dodge brothers touring car into the tree, just before (SPOILER ALERT) he meets Clarence the angel.

Well, Hagerty has a story about that very same black Dodge, now owned by Keith Smith and complete down to its wood-spoked wheels, leather upholstery, and a small, circular brass tag on the dash that proves it was a Twentieth Century-Fox movie prop.

FYI – The Classic Car Museum of St. Augustine has an earlier version of the same car – a 1914 Dodge Brothers Touring Car – the second oldest car in the museum on U.S. 1.

Costing $800 when new, it is one of the first 249 cars built by Horace and John Dodge, with a 25-hp four-cylinder engine under its bonnet.