Sponsor Appreciation
A shout out to Al Swanky's Definitely Different Leatherworks & Heat/Foil Embossing. Vancouver Island Hot Rods is totally non profit. We just enjoy doing what we do. But we also enjoy some financial support from our Sponsors to help cover expenses. So thanks Al for your support through the years. Be sure to check out all the cool leather products Al has to offer.
Passing of Ted Brown
To our dear friend Ted Brown - Ted you were amazing! You and Judy showed up to everything rain or shine! I will always cherish the memories I have of seeing you and "Jezabelle" at all the shows and cruises we were at together! I remember very fondly the time down in Duncan a few years back when you took me for that awesome boot in "Jezabelle" I will never forget that! - I extend my sincere condolences to Ted's wife Judy and his extended family. I think I can speak for everyone by saying Ted will truly be missed by all - RIP friend ♥♥
Sponsor Appreciation
Special thanks to Mcbride’s Service Station LTD and Puppycats Pet Emporium for supporting our site. They have renewed their sponsorship for another year. Terry and Linda can be seen at most car events in the central island area. if you need service to your car, current or classic, or you need something for your fur babies, be sure to stop in Chemainus and pay them a visit. Thanks Guys!!!!!
Oceanside Auto Appraisers Sponsor
It’s nice to have a few sponsors to help with our expenses. Special thanks to Dave Sampson at Oceanside Auto Appraisers.
Dave is an automotive expert and aficionado, having owned and maintained close to four dozen of his own vehicles. The experience he’s gained from this, as well as from numerous “body off frame” restorations, makes him extremely familiar and qualified to handle all sorts of auto appraisals.
You can rest assured that Dave’s knowledge of all aspects of automotive work will result in a more accurate valuation for your car. His experience in dealing with engine rebuilds/swaps, bodywork, frame rebuilding, electrical, interior, driveline theory, and performance modification work means that he is able to reflect even the most minor details into the end appraisal.
Be sure to reach out to Dave for all you appraisal needs.
oceansideautoappraisers.com
(250) 927-4634
Email
Al Clark at the Grand National Roadsters Show
Congratulations to Al Clark, his daughter Karen and to Oceanside Kustoms for their awards at the Grand National Roadsters Show in Ponoma, California.
Passing of Rick Dykstra
I am extremely broken hearted to learn the news that we have lost another member of our car community. I was notified this morning that dear friend Rick Dykstra passed away on Thursday afternoon January 8th, 2026. Rick was a true blue car guy and a friend to many. I have so many memories of Rick. He used to visit me at my office at Budget from time to time and bring me car magazines. He was a regular at our Sears and KMS car cruises as well. I use to always ask him what 8-track he had in his deck whenever he brought his 1969 Camaro 307 to shows and cruises. This one has really hit me hard. I extend my sincere condolences to Rick's wife, kids and family - RIP Rick and thank you for being a friend ♥♥
Passing of Ken Sacht
Well I just received some sad news. Bill Leong, owner of Performance Products Courtenay just messaged me to let me know friend Ken Sacht passed away at 4:30am Saturday, January 3 2026. I have known Ken since 1972 when went to grade 7 together. Of course, like me, Ken was a diehard car fan all his life. I am really going to miss Ken as I always enjoyed seeing him at all the car shows we were at together. He had a gruff exterior but was a teddy bear at heart! I extend my sincere condolences to Leiana, Ken's family and his huge circle of friends! RIP buddy, you will be sorely missed.
Passing of Gary Schley
I was very upset to learn of the passing of Gary Schley yesterday after a courageous battle with cancer. Gary was a car guy through and through. He was well known within the car community. He was a fixture at our weekly Sears and KMS car meets. He will be sorely missed. I extend my sincerest condolences to Gary's wife Laurie and family. RIP Gary.
Woodgrove Mall Cruise-in Car Show
I went out to Woodgrove Mall early this morning here in Nanaimo to check out the two cars that are there in conjunction to Mike's 1st Annual Woodgrove Mall Cruise-in Car Show happening this Sunday September 7th here in Nanaimo. Franks car looks great sitting there under the lights.
This is BC: Driven by nostalgia (Dan Dertien)
Driven By Nostalgia piece on Dan that aired on Global “This is BC”