MARIS BENNETT Car show brings some cool rides Contra Costa Times Article Launched: 11/06/2007 03:01:05 AM PST UNLIKE LAST YEAR, Saturday's weather cooperated, contributing greatly to a successful Fourth Annual Toy Drive and Car Show for the Bay Bombs Car Club. The warm weather, an increased car count from last year and plenty of enthusiasm all added up to a great event. Coming out of Schooner's into a packed parking lot, I felt as if I'd landed in a huge box of crayons. Everywhere I looked, I saw either cars or people. Not knowing which way to go first, I scanned the scene and decided simply to head in the direction of the most eye-catching cars and colors. I began wandering up and down the rows of cars as music played in the background. First, I spotted a taxicab yellow 1969 Chevrolet Camaro boasting houndstooth check upholstery. Not far off, a turquoise Chevy Delray, circa 1958, caught my eye. "Peggy Sue," owned by Gene and Birdie Shipley of Discovery Bay, had a soft gray interior with fuzzy dice the exact shade of the paint job hanging from the rear-view mirror. Another Chevy, this one a 1948 model owned by Mario Briseno, had been painted a sleek, pearl gray. Its seats, covered in beige, brown and gray striped material, looked as crisp and classy as a men's suit. The next car that grabbed my attention, a 1938 two-seater Ford with gray upholstery, belonged to Jim Rhodes of Brentwood. Now, I admit that my knowledge of cars could probably fit into the palm of my hand, but I do recognize when a car buff has put not only time and money, but also love and sweat into his or her hobby. A 1929 two-seater Ford with burgundy upholstery belonging to Joyce and Dave Ford of Oakley was the next vehicle I stopped to look at. Then I took a detour over to the Bay Bombs' booth, at which America Diaz and a few other young women answered questions and sold raffle tickets. Diaz, a Bay Bombs member, enthused that the "weather couldn't be better ... the event is awesome." Responding to my comment that a larger number of cars had shown up, Diaz informed me that there were 120 this year, compared with 75 last year. The Union City Bay Bombs chapter brought in support, as did Sacramento's Compadres and Pittsburg's Untouchables. Mark Scott, in charge of the group's Web site, media and public relations, told me that this was "the best show yet ... it's starting to catch on." Moving over to some more recent models, I admired Sal Messina's 1972 midnight blue Corvette, its body enlivened by blue and green flames. Frank Sanchez of Brentwood brought out his red 1969 Stingray with red and black upholstery. I eyed a royal blue Datsun 1973 240Z nostalgically, remembering my 1970 British racing green "Z." Finally, Mike Coelho, a club member's neighbor, was kind enough to speak with me for awhile. A big-rig driver by trade, he explained that he liked different kinds of vehicles, including Harleys. Saturday, however, he sat behind his inherited 1950 Cadillac, a rare 61 series that was shorter than other models of the era and a main reason why his late father-in-law had bought the car. Coelho enjoys taking it out for regular drives, adding that it "purrs right along at 70 miles per hour." He enlightened me as to the gas-cap's location -- by unscrewing the left tail light. Filing that tidbit, I left the Bay Bombs' final 2007 event feeling just a bit more knowledgeable than when I'd arrived. Maris Bennett is an Antioch resident. Her column publishes every Tuesday. Reach her at stuckinthe60s@sbcglobal.net.
MARIS BENNETT Rain or shine, car show must go on Contra Costa Times Article Launched: 09/25/2007 03:03:24 AM PDT The Bay Bombs Car Club Contra Costa Chapter held its second annual fundraiser for the Antioch Historical Society on Saturday. Despite the inclement weather, dedicated members arrived at 6 a.m. to prepare for the show. As spokespeople Mark and Janet told me, "We hoped for the best." Some wives made homemade breakfast burritos. Hot coffee and doughnuts were provided and a disc jockey supplied entertainment. Members of the East Bay chapter and other club members -- including the Untouchables, Dragoons, Chicano Legacy and the Dukes -- came out to support the Bay Bombs. About 30 to 40 cars were present. " Classic cars are treasured possessions, and bringing them out in the rain was a huge sacrifice," the Scotts said. The decision to "brave the weather" in support of the Bay Bombs "said a lot and meant to lot to us," said the Scotts, who wish to thank all those who came out. The event had been publicized in many local event calendars and newspapers. Because of the less-than-ideal weather, however, the turnout was smaller than anticipated, so the group waived its $25 registration fee, turning the event into an informal get-together instead, with suggested donations to the Antioch Historical Society. A steady flow of spectators turned out to view the cars and enjoy the show. Bay Bombs' next event will be its toy drive and car show Nov. 3 at Schooner's Grille and Brewery. Check out the group's Web site at http://www.baybombs.com for more information.
MARIS BENNETT More exceptional people of Antioch Contra Costa Times Article Launched: 09/11/2007 03:03:47 AM PDT Now, more than ever, Antioch can define itself by the variety of residents who live and work here. Recent columns have acknowledged many individuals who have been gracious enough to allow me a glimpse into their lives and occupations. This one will include the rest of those with whom I've had the pleasure of speaking. Local author Karin Tabke has published several novels, most featuring heroines in law enforcement. And she's just one example of how a woman can combine motherhood and a career -- and write books as well! By day, Linda Livingston provides campus security at Deer Valley High School, but her avocation is acting. She has been an extra in films, performed in theater productions and still finds time to write and raise three girls. MAC artists at Macy's, while busily applying cosmetics to young women for last year's Winter Ball, paused to tell me why they love what they do. The satisfaction they derived from boosting customers' self-esteem was apparent. Sandra Hudgens fulfilled her dream of running a book shop with Books 'n' Books, which she owns with her husband, Lee. Scrapbook store owner Michelle Norris enthusiastically described the activity she says anyone can do. Even people who don't consider themselves particularly artistic may enjoy the pastime, she said. Debbie Silva, a Pampered Chef consultant, liked the freedom of being her own boss and the satisfaction of helping new recruits grow their business. Members of the Contra Costa Chapter of the Bay Bombs Classic Car Club not only share a hobby but also participate in fundraisers for the Antioch Historical Society. They also organize a toy drive for children at Schooner's restaurant each fall. Shelly Gordon, a "behind-the-scenes" publicist for Sutter Delta, supplied me with names of dedicated folks in the medical field. Dr. Jeffrey Leinen, medical director; Katie Prosser, director of the urgent care clinic and ER; and Dr. Sumit Sen, head of the Pediatric/Hospitalist-Physician Service, made time in their crowded schedules to answer questions. Richard Enea of the Youth Educator Program explained how he trained parent volunteers to go into local schools. They, in turn, teach high school students to educate middle school students about the importance of avoiding illegal drugs. Fall events in the coming weeks include the 32nd annual San Francisco Stand-Up Comedy Competition at the El Campanil Theatre on Saturday. Fifteen contestants will present short routines a la David Letterman. The performers come not only from the Bay Area but also from Seattle, Chicago, Toronto, Cleveland, Portland, Los Angeles and Phoenix. This is an adults-only event with an admission price of $25, and $22 for seniors. Additional offerings at the theater will include bands, a symphony, a retro 1940s musical, a magician and a screening of the Oscar-winning classic film "West Side Story." Come out and remind yourselves of all that Antioch has to offer. We have much to appreciate. Maris Bennett is an Antioch resident. Her column publishes every Tuesday. Reach her at stuckinthe60s@sbcglobal.net.
MARIS BENNETT Thoughtful growth adds to city appeal Contra Costa Times Article Launched: 08/08/2007 03:01:54 AM PDT FOR ALMOST 30 YEARS now, I've called Antioch home. I've lived here longer than any other place, watching it morph from a small town with a rural feel to a struggling suburb to a city with a population of about 100,000 that continues to grow and change. Still, the question remains: What does Antioch hope to be? Does it want to grow in a haphazard direction, with minimalls that too often are filled with predictable businesses (fast food, nail salons and loan companies)? Or is there a more purposeful direction in which it aspires to grow? I am neither a proponent of stagnation, of "same old, same old," nor of uncontrolled growth. I enjoy the variety of businesses we now have, including the many new eateries. The mere fact that there is much more choice gives the city a flavor and personality that I personally found lacking in the past. However, with growth comes more people (not necessarily a bad thing), more homes (and more traffic, as we all know) and more crime, perhaps. Those people we've entrusted with the responsibility to decide how our city will develop and mature need to consider a more ordered way to go. Watching minimalls spring up hither and yon makes me think that somebody isn't planning with much forethought but just allowing centers to spring up everywhere. Instead of too many more of these little shopping centers, I'd like to see the downtown area, that oft-mentioned Rivertown, get the much-needed attention it so desperately deserves. Businesses down in that neighborhood need our support. They also need more company! The relaxed environment, the breeze coming off the river, the quiet -- all engage me when I visit. I'd love to see more cafes, more shops and more people wandering the streets. Two events coming up in the fall, both taking place in September, are ones I highly recommend. After attending both of these last year, I am looking forward to them this time. The first, the ninth annual Delta Blues Festival, takes place one day only. That day is Sept. 15 from noon to 7:30 p.m., and it's free! Held in the aforementioned Rivertown District off Second between G and I streets, the festival welcomes all ages. Free parking is available, no alcohol is allowed, and pets are not invited. There will be arts and crafts, food vendors and gift items available. The artist lineup includes Mem Shan non & the Membership, the Lloyd Jones Struggle, Alvon Johnson, Andre Thierry and Zydeco Magic, Blues Power and Blues Horizon. The very next weekend, on Sept. 22, the Bay Bombs Car Club (Contra Costa Chapter) holds its Cars on the Green Show. This runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Antioch Historical Society, 1500 W. Fourth St. Registration is $25 to entrants, but there is no fee to the public. If you are interested, contact either Mark or Janet at info@baybombs.com. The Web site is http://www.baybombs.com. It's a little early yet to mention another event, but keep it in mind. On Nov. 3, the Bay Bombs holds the annual Toy Drive and Car Show. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., rain or shine, the group will be at Schooners (4250 Lone Tree Way). Entry fee is $20 or $10 with a new, unwrapped toy. Once again, the public gets in free. Now, who says there's nothing much to do in Antioch? Maris Bennett is an Antioch resident. Her column publishes every Tuesday. Reach her at stuckinthe60s@sbcglobal.net.
Issue 07:05:04 - May 29, 2007 Share your classic car hobby with others at the Bay Bombs Car Club
If you own a classic car or
just admire automobiles from the past, you're sure to enjoy the
bay bombs car club of Pittsburg,
California. The club offers events for its members and helps local
charities - all while celebrating great cars from the past. Bay Bombs Car Club events
There are two main events
hosted by the club each year: the Cars on the Green car show and the Toy
Drive & Car Show. The Cars on the Green car show is held in the fall and
features many great classic cars displayed on the gorgeous green lawn of
the Antioch Historical Society Museum. This event benefits the museum
and takes place in Antioch, California. The Annual Toy Drive & Car Show
is held in November in Antioch as well. This event benefits the local
charities in the community during the Christmas season with donations,
sponsorships, and toys for children in need. Donations received on the web
The club also offers anyone
the opportunity to donate to its charitable events. An individual or
business can donate items for the raffles such as movie or theme park
tickets, tickets to ball games, motor oil, hotel lodgings, food or gift
baskets, gift cards from local stores or restaurants, etc. Also, goodie
bag items are needed such as pencils, maps, cups, magnets, etc. The
donations allow for more monetary benefits to go to the local charity
while taking care of some of the expenses of the show. Rod & Wheels E-Magazine Article (5/29/07)
Contra Costa Times A close family struggles to recover By Rowena Coetsee - Saturday, 11/25/06 Maricela Avalos tenderly cradles her young daughter on her lap, cupping her head with one hand as she sits in the parents lounge. The 33-year-old Antioch mother manages to smile as a visitor asks about that night when life's seemingly random cruelty catapulted her family into suffering that could last a lifetime. ... well-wishers help where they can, and a local car club, Bay Bombs, raised $1,500 for the family. But ... http://www.contracostatimes.com/mld/cctimes/email/news/16095899.htm
Brentwood News GETTING A RIDE TO CHECK OUT A RIDE By Eddie Ledesma/Staff - Published on November 17, 2006, Page 14, Brentwood News PHOTO: ZACHARY ALMALEH, 18 months old, perches on the shoulders of his grandfather, Dennis Rivera of Oakley, as the two inspect a 1978 Chevy Blazer at the Bay Bombs Car Club annual toy drive and car show Nov. 4 in the parking lot at Deer Valley Plaza in Antioch.
Contra Costa Times MARIS BENNETT - Tue, Nov. 14, 2006 On Nov. 4, the Bay Bombs Classic Car Club held its third annual car show/toy drive at Schooner's Restaurant. Seventy-four cars were present, with a make and model on display for most any aficionado. A 1939 Chevy won for best 1930s car, a 1950 black Cadillac with black/gray velour interior won for best 1950s vehicle. A black vinyl-top 1968 Dodge Charger took the 1960s prize, while Sal Messina's midnight blue 1972 Corvette Stingray, swirled with lavender/magenta and mottled blue, won as best 1970s car. The best truck was an orange 1956 Chevy with purple stripes. Admission to the event was free, with registrants paying $20, or $10 with the donation of an unwrapped toy. As before, Grannies Anonymous, a local nonprofit group, was the beneficiary of the drive. Wandering through the parking lot, we stopped frequently to eye the cars, all sporting pristine paint jobs and each reflecting the owner's individuality. A red 1953 convertible Chevy Belair sat, detailed by orange/gold, the interior set off by a red steering wheel, the upholstery white with red piping. An airbrushed mural decorated the car's lower quarter. Inside the open trunk of a two-tone, 1951 Sky Sedan, a mini Grumpy (of Snow White's dwarves) sat, while a full-size Grumpy occupied the front passenger seat. Discovery Bay residents Gene and Birdie Shipley's aqua blue/white 1958 Chevy Delray attracted attention with its dice-topped door locks and puffy dice hanging from the rearview mirror. This year, a particularly poignant decision was made to help the Avalos family, whose 7-year-old daughter, Jacqueline, was the victim of a hit-and-run last August. The little girl remains in a coma at Children's Hospital Oakland, while her 14-year-old sister recovers from her injuries. Bay Bombs has adopted the family for Christmas, and the Discovery Bay Boulevard Knights, another car club, donated $100 as did John Stanley, of Stanley Auto Body of Pittsburg. Jacqueline's mother has remained at her daughter's bedside since the accident, and her husband is the sole supporter of the family of seven. If you would like to make a donation to the Avalos family, contact the Bay Bombs at baybombs-cc@sbcglobal.net. _________________________________
In addition to the sources listed above, Bay Bombs Car Club shows & events can also be found in the following publications and websites: · Delta Navigator · Cruisin News · Antioch CityGram · Drive Online · Altamont Cruisers Website · Antioch / Brentwood and Oakley Press Newsletters · California Car Show Events · KKIQ radio station · Lowrider Magazine · Street Low Magazine · Rio Vista Beacon · Chevybombs.com
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