What's up everyone! As we breeze through the month of January, you find yourself counting down the days till spring. The winter months carry a calmness that can drive an automotive enthusiast to the brink of insanity. You find yourself flipping through the back issues of Gauge for the memorable event when you were whining about how damn hot it was! So for those of you diagnosed with a bad case of the winter blues we prescribe a large intake of this month's issue. We take you back to mid summer when flip fops and tank tops were accepted as your daily gear. So strap up and hold on as the Gauge Magazine Lifestyle Tour takes you through some of the hottest events in the mid west we visited this past year.

The first weekend of February 4-6 2005 Championship Auto Shows will be featuring the Gauge Magazine Lifestyle Hall at the Indianapolis World of Wheels. The floor plans are laid out for the Marsh Pavilion at the Indiana State Fairgrounds for a completion to the Ultimate Lifestyle Experience. Special feature models Heather Tindell from Stuff Magazine and Jennifer Eagle from Guess Jeans will be appearing for pictures and autographs throughout the weekend. Come by the Gauge booth to catch up on all the upcoming events and Gauge goodies. The release of the long awaited Slamology DVD is confirmed and will be available to purchase and get your flyer for this year's 2nd Annual Slamology event.
For more information on the Indy World of Wheels check out http://www.autorama.com/casi/indianapolis.htm

On the cover this month we bring you Adam McCarthy in his 1948 Chevy Pick up. I was able to meet up with Adam this past year at the Southern Showdown held in Louisville, KY. Adam purchased this impressive ride from his father 2 years ago and in turn his main goal was to bring his fathers dream to life. With help from friends Adam was able to create this clean cruiser in 1 year. The eye catching melon poly finish sets off its aggressive stance and smooth body.

To top off Adams ride we added the presence of the gorgeous February Gauge Girl Jennifer Osbourne. I was able to catch up with Jennifer after the bikini contest at the Southern Showdown this past July. An enthusiast herself, she never misses a show while rolling with her crew from the Platinum Car Club. Jennifer is currently studying at Western Kentucky University and is working to graduate with 2 masters, and recently just got engaged so sorry guys… she's taken!

To start off this month's event coverage we hook up with Freelance Photographer Toby Mosholder in Monroe, OH for the North American Nationals presented by Midwest Truck Association. Ed Eldridge and crew set up shop at the Middletown Motorsports Park this past August 7th & 8th 2004. Some of the hottest vehicles in the mid west flooded the streets of Monroe to be apart of this exciting annual event. For more information on next years event, check out www.mta.webhop.org.

Next we caught up with Freelance Photographer Jowee in Marne, MI for a day of Madness. On August 29th 2004 Smooth Ridin' hosted the Midwest Madness at the Berlin Raceway. As if the added touch of class with having a show at a Raceway isn't enough, the crew over at Smooth Ridin' proved they knew how to utilize an infield. Pulling in a stunning crowd and record number of high quality jaw dropping custom rides set the tone for this must see event. For more information or directions for next years event visit www.MidwestMadness.com or check out the crew over at www.SmoothRidin.com.

Last but not least the Gauge Staff and I hooked up with our good friends over at CWB Accessories for their annual Cruise In. The event was held in Plainfield, IN at ABC Distributors on July 10th, 2004. Big Mike and his crew at CWB Accessories put together another successful gathering bringing in a fine collection of custom vehicles and a day full of entertainment. To make sure you don't miss this event for next year contact Big Mike from CWB Accessories at 317 838 8888.

We have an impressive line up of feature vehicles for you this month. First we start off with Travis Citrano representing Street Illusion$ in his 2001 Ford F-150. With the help from friends and family Travis was able to take his ride to the next level in only 1 Year. Travis being his own painter was able to express his look of the one of a kind ride and have fun with his hobby in customizing vehicles!

Next up we have Michael Senko representing Down South Kustoms in his 1997 GMC Full Size Truck. I was able to meet up with Michael and his crew at Showfest this past May in Greenville, MS. The mean stance and detailed airbrush work keeps this ride straight "Clownin". But as always the customizing never stops, future plans are already in store for this cool cruiser to make its next transformation.

Last up for our vehicle features is Andrew Partridge in his 1991 Mazda B2200 extended cab. I was able to catch up with Andrew this past June at the Scrapin' the Coast event held in Biloxi, MS. Andrew being no stranger to the custom scene, he has been involved with this awesome sport for 10 Years. While working as a collision repairman, Andrew has been able to use his trade to his advantage and build some immaculate creations. His latest masterpiece redefines the word "Clean" and steps it up a notch with its close attention to detail.

As usual, if you have any questions or comments please do not hesitate to contact me!

Until next month keep your heads up and at least one frame rail on the ground! Peace!!
BIG WOOD
bigwood@gaugemagazine.com