A cherished piece of automotive history, reminiscent of a bygone era, has found its way back to its rightful owner. The iconic 1956 Dodge Coronet, styled to mirror the vehicle from the 1950s television series “Highway Patrol,” was recently recovered after being taken on Christmas Day. Discovered in an abandoned area, the car showed signs of alterations but remained largely intact. Owner Kyle Okura expressed relief and gratitude for its return. However, some modifications were evident: the ignition and battery had been removed, and the Highway Patrol emblems on the doors repainted. Despite these changes, Okura plans to restore the car and enhance its security. This vehicle holds sentimental value, purchased years ago by Okura’s father, Albert, who saw it as a symbol of American culture.
The Return of a Timeless Icon
The recovery of this classic 1956 Dodge Coronet has brought immense relief to its owner, Kyle Okura. Found behind a vacant apartment complex in San Bernardino, the car appeared mostly undamaged despite some alterations. Okura, president of the Juan Pollo chicken restaurant chain, felt a wave of gratitude knowing that his prized possession was back in one piece. The vehicle, which is used in parades and events, was stolen from the headquarters of Juan Pollo on J Street. Although the thieves had tampered with the ignition, battery, and painted over the Highway Patrol logos, Okura remains optimistic about restoring it to its former glory.
Okura suspects that the publicity surrounding the theft may have deterred the culprits from pursuing their plans further. The discovery of the car was reported by a citizen who noticed the vintage Dodge parked on an abandoned property. Authorities noted that there was no immediate recognition of the vehicle as stolen at the time of reporting. For Okura, this experience underscores the importance of safeguarding such historical treasures. He plans to repaint the car and find a more secure location for it, ensuring it remains protected for future generations to admire.
A Symbol of Americana Reclaimed
This 1956 Dodge Coronet holds deep significance beyond its aesthetic appeal. Purchased by Albert Okura, the founder of Juan Pollo, the car represents a piece of Americana that resonates with the family’s legacy. Albert, known for his contributions to preserving local history, including opening a McDonald’s museum and restoring the town of Amboy, saw the Dodge as a symbol of America’s rich cultural heritage. Now, with the car back in the family's hands, Kyle feels confident that his father would be proud of its safe return.
The restoration process will involve meticulous attention to detail, aiming to bring back the car’s original charm. Kyle intends to repaint the vehicle, replacing the altered logos and addressing the missing components like the ignition and battery. This effort reflects the family’s commitment to preserving not just a car but a piece of history. The story of this 1956 Dodge Coronet serves as a reminder of the enduring power of community and the importance of protecting our shared cultural icons. As Kyle looks forward to showcasing the restored vehicle in parades and events, he honors both his father’s legacy and the spirit of a bygone era.
In early November 2024, Monticello hosted an unforgettable Customer Appreciation Day and Car Show. This event showcased a remarkable collection of 80 classic vehicles, drawing in a steady stream of visitors who enjoyed the pleasant autumn weather. Attendees were treated to free barbecue, live music, and equipment demonstrations. The day was filled with excitement as guests participated in raffles and admired the beautifully restored automobiles. Organizers ensured a seamless experience for all, while judges from a prestigious automobile club evaluated the entries and awarded trophies to the winners.
The Highlights of Monticello's CarQuest Customer Appreciation Day
In the charming town of Monticello, on a crisp Saturday in November, enthusiasts gathered for the eagerly anticipated CarQuest Customer Appreciation Day and Car Show. The event took place under clear blue skies, creating a perfect backdrop for showcasing an impressive lineup of 80 meticulously maintained classic cars. Don and Chantel Romaine managed vehicle registration efficiently, ensuring everything ran smoothly.
Visitors savored the complimentary barbecue prepared by Joey Davis, while DJ Chuck provided an engaging soundtrack that kept everyone entertained throughout the day. Among the highlights was the Stihl equipment demonstration, which added an interactive element to the festivities. Raffle tickets sold briskly before and during the event, adding an extra layer of excitement.
Judges from the Tallahassee Region Antique Automobile Club of America (TRAACA) carefully evaluated each entry, ultimately selecting the top contenders to receive coveted trophies. The event not only celebrated automotive history but also fostered a sense of community among car enthusiasts.
From a journalist's perspective, this event exemplifies how local communities can come together to celebrate shared passions. It demonstrates the power of collaboration between businesses and residents to create memorable experiences that honor tradition while fostering new connections. Such events remind us of the importance of preserving our heritage and building stronger communities through shared interests.