Mike James, a local from Helper, made his way to Salt Lake City on March 16 for the prestigious Autorama event. This marked the fiftieth annual Salt Lake City car show and award ceremony where James was honored with induction into the Utah Hot Rod Hall of Fame. Known for its nationwide prominence, Autorama highlights top-tier hot rods, custom cars, trucks, and motorcycles. James' lifelong passion for hot rods began in 1959 when he discovered a book about them after witnessing an impressive car near his home. Over the years, he co-founded the Helper Car Show and the Butch Cassidy Gang car club, which have achieved significant success.
Despite being surprised by the recognition, James expresses immense pride in being part of such a distinguished group. Since 1985, he has been an avid attendee of Autorama and admires the exceptional vehicles showcased there. His dedication extends beyond personal achievements as he continues organizing events, crafting unique awards, and auctioning off creatively painted refrigerators. The upcoming car show is scheduled for August 30 in Scofield, marking nearly four decades of unwavering commitment and enthusiasm.
Pioneering Spirit in Hot Rod Culture
Mike James’ journey into the world of hot rods started more than six decades ago with a childhood fascination that turned into a lifelong passion. From building a race jeep for hill climbs to founding the Helper Car Show and the Butch Cassidy Gang car club, James has played a pivotal role in shaping the hot rod culture in Utah. His innovative approach to organizing events has set new standards in the community, making him a revered figure among enthusiasts.
The foundation of James' success lies in his ability to inspire others through creativity and hard work. As a child, his curiosity led him to purchase a book on hot rods, igniting a fire that would grow into a career dedicated to promoting automotive artistry. By establishing the Helper Car Show, he not only provided a platform for fellow aficionados but also contributed to the growth of a vibrant community. His efforts were acknowledged when the Helper Car Show became the first inducted into the Utah Hot Rod Hall of Fame. Such milestones reflect his enduring impact on the scene, proving that his contributions go far beyond mere participation; they redefine the essence of hot rod culture.
Commitment Beyond Recognition
Beyond the accolades and honors, Mike James remains steadfast in his commitment to nurturing the spirit of hot rod culture. Even after being recognized by the Utah Hot Rod Hall of Fame, he continues to invest time and energy into organizing events that celebrate this unique lifestyle. His attention to detail shines through in every aspect of these gatherings, from designing custom jugs as awards to auctioning off uniquely painted refrigerators. These elements add flair and excitement, drawing participants and spectators alike.
James’ dedication is evident in his meticulous planning and execution of each event. For instance, instead of offering conventional prizes like guns or televisions, he opts for something more memorable—custom fridges. This choice underscores his belief in creating lasting impressions rather than fleeting moments. Despite jokingly mentioning retirement, his actions speak louder than words, revealing an unshakable resolve to keep pushing boundaries within the community. With another car show slated for August in Scofield, it becomes clear that James' legacy will continue to thrive, driven by his relentless passion and inventive spirit. His story serves as both inspiration and testament to what can be achieved through genuine love and perseverance in any field one chooses to pursue.
A vibrant celebration of automotive artistry and nostalgic music unfolded at the Imperial Valley Fairgrounds on April 5, as the East Side Story Car Show & Fiesta + Funkin’ Oldies brought together enthusiasts from all walks of life. Dozens of intricately customized vehicles, often referred to as "ranflas," graced the event alongside classic lowrider melodies. Attendees were also thrilled by a special appearance from Anthony Boosalis, known for designing the East Side Story Music series.
This iconic gathering featured an impressive array of automobiles, ranging from the roaring '30s to the dynamic '90s, including motorcycles and bicycles vying for numerous awards. The soundtrack of the day included performances by Lakeside, Tierra Legacy, Sunny Ozuna, Candyman, and other legendary acts. Originating in 1979, this traveling festival has long been dedicated to curating the finest R&B classics and doo-wop ballads, resonating deeply with the lowriding culture.
A Showcase of Automotive Artistry
The fairgrounds became a canvas of creativity as participants unveiled their meticulously crafted rides. Each vehicle was not just a mode of transportation but an expression of individuality, adorned with intricate designs and cutting-edge modifications that turned heads. From vintage cars to modern cycles, every entry competed fiercely for recognition across various categories.
Visitors marveled at the sheer diversity of entries, each representing decades of innovation and craftsmanship. These automobiles ranged from pre-war masterpieces to post-modern marvels, reflecting the evolution of design over nearly seven decades. Motorcycles and bicycles added another layer of excitement, showcasing how even smaller vehicles could achieve grandeur through customization. This competition wasn't merely about winning; it celebrated passion, dedication, and the timeless allure of classic vehicles.
Nostalgic Melodies Revive the Spirit of Lowriding
Music played a pivotal role in setting the tone for this unforgettable event. Live performances by renowned artists like Lakeside and Tierra Legacy transported attendees back to eras defined by soulful rhythms and heartfelt lyrics. The curated playlist further enhanced the experience, offering a blend of timeless R&B hits and captivating doo-wop ballads.
Born out of a desire to honor the roots of lowriding culture, the East Side Story Music series has grown into a cherished tradition since its inception in 1979. Its founder envisioned creating playlists that perfectly complemented the cruising experience, ensuring every ride felt like a journey through history. At this year's edition, Anthony Boosalis's presence underscored the importance of preserving these musical legacies while inspiring new generations to embrace them. Through song, the event connected people across age groups, fostering a sense of community rooted in shared appreciation for retro sounds.
In the heart of summer, Princeton is gearing up for an exhilarating celebration of automotive history with Show and Shine 2025. Now in its third year, this two-day extravaganza promises a nostalgic journey through time via gleaming chrome and roaring engines. Scheduled for August 29-30, the event will bring together car enthusiasts, families, and local communities for a vibrant display of vintage vehicles complemented by live music and interactive activities.
A Community Celebration Through Wheels and Music
As the golden rays of summer bathe Princeton, the town prepares to welcome Show and Shine 2025, marking its third successful installment. Organized by dedicated volunteers like Therese Grgich, this year’s event begins with a swap meet on Friday evening from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., setting the stage for Saturday's main attraction—a grand car show running from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Alongside these highlights, attendees can enjoy food trucks, children’s entertainment featuring balloons, and the unveiling of a fresh logo and revamped social media presence.
Grgich expresses optimism about the anticipated turnout of 200 classic cars, reflecting the growing popularity of this community-driven initiative. While final details remain under development, organizers assure participants of a well-rounded experience blending nostalgia with modern charm. Registration fees stand at $25 for car entries and $50 for food vendors, with proceeds destined for a charitable cause yet to be announced.
Through their efforts, Grgich and her team aim not only to honor Princeton's heritage but also to foster camaraderie among residents and visitors alike.
From a journalist's perspective, Show and Shine exemplifies how passion projects can unite people across generations. It demonstrates that preserving traditions doesn’t mean standing still; instead, it involves embracing innovation while respecting roots. Such initiatives remind us of the power of collaboration and shared interests in building stronger, more connected communities.