NJ Cruise News

RETURN TO TOP

Week of May 26th

NJ Cruise News is not Responsible for any changes in Date, Time, or Change of location. Please contact your local Cruise.

News/Article Archives

Calling all Corvette Enthusiasts!

On Sept 2, 1994 the Corvette Museum opened in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Each year, to raise money to help support day to day operations of the museum, they offer a series of raffles.

This month they raffled off a 2021 shadow gray corvette, 2021 black corvette and a 2020 arctic white corvette; the Septembet 5th drawing featured a 2020 torch red corvette.

If you 18 years of age, with a valid drivers license, are planning to be in Kentucky, take a few minutes to purchase a ticket before you leave the state. Yes, that’s the hitch, you must be physically located in KY to enter, though it isn’t necessary to be a resident.

The next drawing is on September 24th. The drawing is for a 2021 BYO corvette or $65,000 and the cost of a ticket is $250 with a 1500 limit on tickets sold. At the time of this post there are 979 tickets still available.

On October 15th, the prize is a 2021 Silver Flare Coupe, with 2000 tickets offered at $100 each. As of this writing, there are 1503 still available for purchase.

Go to raffle.corvettemuseum.org for details.

2020 Hot Wheels Legends Tour has gone viral ...

due to COVID-19, but time is running out to submit your build. They are, like always, looking for something unique, built, not bought.

The Grand Finale will be held online in November 2020, at that time, one winning design will be inducted into the Hot Wheels Garage of Legends™ — and turned into a 1:64 die-cast car to be sold around the world.

(Update) You can watch a video of the judging panel as they viewed and discussed entries by going to Facebook.

If you are the type of person who like to read the final chapter before the book, and want to see the final choices, you can see them here. If you want the technical details about the builds, go to the Facebook link above and watch the video. There you can see the submissions hear all about them ./

ATCO Traffic Jam (April 2021)Officials at ATCO Dragway were told on Sunday to close their gates due to COVID-19 capacity issues. Once the gates were closed, the traffic backed up for miles. New Jersey State Police were called in to help manage the traffic nightmare.

The many that were turned away, decided to stay in the area, setting up in local parking lots to enjoy the remainder of the day.

This 6abc video tells it all....

Collector Car Appreciation Day Promo

National Car Appreciation Day—July 9th, 2021

First recognized July 9, 2010 , National Car Appreciation Day celebrates the classic and collector car hobby, raising awareness of the role that the role of automotive collection and restoration in American society.

In 2010 a U.S. Congressional Resolution was passed/ recognizing that the “collection and restoration of historic and classic cars is an important part of preserving the technological achievements and cultural heritage of the United States.”

If you haven't planned or attended an event this year, perhaps begin talking with your local club to get something on the calendar for 2022.

Although there were no New Jersey events listed for the weekend, there are a few in New York and Pennsylvania. They can be found by visiting the Event page on SEMASAN.

If you prefer to stay local—TAKE A DRIVE and show off your little bit of history.

Did you know…

Tuesday, August 3 is National Night Out and is celebrated in communities across all 50 states, U.S. territories and our military bases across the globe?

National Night Out is an opportunity for neighbors and police to get to know each other by gathering together hosting block parties, festivals, community events with safety demonstrations, events for the kids, exhibits and more. It’s a great opportunity for local law enforcement and the community to come together and build relationships while enjoying a night out with friends.

Check out our August page for information on a few National Night Out events that include car shows.

The Edsel Show - October 13, 1957:
The first entertainment program recorded on Video Tape at CBS Television City, Hollywood, California

Veterans Day - November 11th 2024
The 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month ...

Double click here to edit this text.

Hold on to your wallets!

Thank you, Governor Murphy .

Not only did our tolls increase this month, but on October 1st the gas tax increase went into effect, causing the State’s gas tax to have increased nearly 250% since 2016.

Well, in reality, he didn’t simply decide to increase the tax. Back in 2016, legislation was passed that stated if the revenue from the tolls was not met, the gas tax rate is to be adjusted accordingly so the State can fund the transportation infrastructure needs.

(Cathi's thoughts follow) Governor Murphy, perhaps, in the midst of the financial hardships so many citizens of the State are dealing with due to the unique economic environment caused by COVID-19, you could consider giving us a break.

Oh—since this tax increase is also for diesel fuel, all those big rigs that carry our goods across this great country of ours will also feel the impact. So hold onto your wallets because I would guess that we will see the prices of just about anything go up as a result.

MENLO PARK NEW JERSEY VETERANS HOME
DRIVE-BY PARADE 3-26-2022

Story and photos by: Ben Deutschman

Two weeks ago a young lady posted on social media, that she was looking for a few guys and gals to do a drive-by Parade to cheer up her Dad and Veteran, who can no longer attend Car Shows and Cruise Nights and currently resides in the Menlo Park New Jersey Veterans Home.

Almost as soon as the Post hit Social Media, it TOOK OFF. I stumbled across the Post sometime early last week, managed to contact Kate, and we went into hi gear, foot to the floor, contacting the Edison Police Department, nailing down a suitable staging area, coordinating efforts so we all spoke with one voice, and then hitting Social Media again with the finalized game plan.

The event was AMAZING, even with threatening weather, over 150 vehicles participated in the Drive-By Parade. A BIG shout out the Edison P.D., and the Officers who helped keep everyone safe, and the event running smoothly.

From what Kate told me, the Veterans who were gathered to see the Parade, and of Kate’s Dad, were buzzing about the vehicles they got to see, which translates into, guys and gals, YOU DID BEYOND GOOD!! Oh, and Kate, every Dad should have an Angel like you looking out for him

Follow this Link to see the Photos from the Menlo Park New Jersey Veterans Home Drive-By Parade on 3-26-2022.

https://vimeo.com/692656588

National Mustang Day 4-17-2022

Sunday is National Mustang Day and here in New Jersey the Garden State Region Mustang Club in Wood Ridge is planning a cruise to get as many Mustang enthusiasts as possible to get together on Saturday (April 16) and take the pony’s for a run. So clean it up, gas it up and get it out. For specifics on the cruise, visit their Events page.

Ford Mustang Turns 58 This Week

Ford's iconic pony car first appeared on the scene in April of 1964. Exactly what day? Well, that might be up for interpretation. The Mustang's grand debut came on April 14, 1964 for the press and April 17, 1964 for the general public.

Because Ford wanted to have examples of the new Mustang in the dealerships for the launch, pre-production models were shipped out early to all dealerships across North America. To ensure that the dealerships received the cars in time, cars were sent to the furthest dealerships first. At the time, the furthest dealership was George G.R. Parsons Ford in St. John’s, Newfoundland, Canada. Ford shipped the very first Mustang, VIN 5F08F100001, to St. John’s where it was quickly spotted and sold to airline pilot Stanley Tucker on April 16, 1964.

The pre-production models were never meant to be sold. They were essentially practice cars for workers assembling them. They don’t have the quality of cars intended for sale. These examples of the new Mustang were intended to be just that – examples to be returned to the factory and then destroyed.

When Ford heard that the first car built had been sold, they did their best to get it back. However, Tucker couldn’t be persuaded to sell it back just yet. It took two years and a new, fully loaded, 1966 model to change his mind..the one millionth Mustang ever built. The first Mustang built is now housed in the Henry Ford Museum.

Here in the United States, on April 15 a young school teacher, Gail Wise, walked into a Ford dealership in Chicago, her first paycheck in hand to purchase a car. Her one requirement – it had to be a convertible. Unfortunately, or fortunately for her, there weren’t any convertibles on the showroom floor but the salesman knew there were two new Mustangs in the back. Gail fell in love and purchased her convertible, driving it home that day…two days before the big reveal. 58 years later, Gail Wise still owns the vehicle with no intentions of selling it.

Remembering our Heros - Memorial Day

As the weekend is upon us, let's take a moment to remember what the holiday is all about.

Memorial Day (originally known as Decoration Day) was officially proclaimed on May 5th, 1868 by General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, in his General Order No. 11. “The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or ... more

Check out our video - just push play

“Hot Rod” Mike & NJ. Cruise News will return to host this year’s 5th Annual Q104.3 Rock & Roll Car Show at the Overpeck Park County Ampitheater in Ridgefield Park, New Jersey on Saturday, August 27th with live entertainment featuring BOD of NYC. Enjoy an afternoon of family friendly fun including food trucks and festival favorites, beer garden, kids zone, novelty cars and more!
Car Show Registration $20.00 Day of Show
Spectator parking $20.00

What a Rockin’ Weekend it Was!

The skies were blue with the occasional white fluffy cloud and a slight breeze, it was a perfect day a car show.

Returning after a 2-year hiatus, nearly 500 cars came out to show off their babies this past weekend at the annual Q104.3 Rock & Roll Car Show held at Overpeck County Park, Ridgefield, NJ. Organized by NJ Cruise News, there were classics, customs, resto-mods, exotics, funny cars, dragsters and my, personal favorite—Tommy’s classic Good Humor truck. On stage in the ampitheatre, live entertainment was provided by BOD of NYC, a New York cover band playing your favorites from the 70’s to today. A portion of the proceeds donated to Tunnel to Towers organization.

While Q104.3’s Maria Milito, Jim Kerr, Carol Miller, Ken Dashow broadcast live throughout the day, there were activities for the kids, a beer garden for the adults, and food trucks to satisfy every appetite.

Thank you to " Cruizin' "- Jerry Roe and Ken Foster, Pieces of Eight Productions for a great video. Thank you for the plug and interview at the Sentimental Cruisers "Time to Shine" Car Show, Barnegat, New Jersey, April 22, 2023...... Look for us at the 3 minute mark.

Have an Extra $390K? (Atco Grandstands For Sale)

For a mere $390,000 you can be the proud owner of the Atco Dragway grandstands. The grandstands consist of two sections. The first section was originally purchased in 1998 and is made up of 3,076 seats which are 18 inches wide. 294 feet and 19 rows. The second section, installed in 2007 consists of 1,459 seats, consisting of 1398 seats at 18 inches, as well as a variety of more specialized seats including wheelchair spaces, tower seats, 21 suite box seats and an elevator for wheelchair access. Don't need that much seating? Good news! The owner will consider partial sale of the grandstand.

Mountainside Classic Car Show Returns On Sunday

Classic cars will line the streets for this free event.

MOUNTAINSIDE, NJ — The Mountainside Classic Car Show returns on Sunday, Sept. 17 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The show hosted by NJ. Cruise News, the Greater Westfield Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Mountainside Municipality...(from Westfield Patch)

Thank you! to all our Veterans - 2023

On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918, an armistice was declared between Allied nationals and Germany. Commemorated in many countries as Armistice Day, November 11th became a federal holiday in the United States in 1938. Following WWII and the Korean War, Armistice Day became known as Veterans Day...a day when we pay thanks to all American veterans - living or dead - who served their country honorably during war or peacetime.

The Veterans Day National Committee selected "The Bugler" by Gene Russell as this year's winning Veterans Day poster. “Bugle calls are not songs, and they do not have lyrics. Yet, when heard, the calls evoke the emotion and the pride of service for members of every uniformed branch listed on this poster,” he said.

More than 100 bugle calls are used in the United States Armed Services, including a few used only in emergencies, such as “man overboard” or “abandon ship.” For that reason, the bugler connects each service member on land, air and sea.

“My goal was to link the sight, sound and feeling of how we served our country. The pole and American flag in this image are the ones currently flying over VA headquarters in Washington, DC,” he said. “It flies for each of us and those Veterans to come.”

December 7th, 1941 - "a date which will live in infamy"
“On December 7, 1941, Japanese planes attacked the United States Naval Base at Pearl Harbor External, Hawaii Territory, killing more than 2,300 Americans. The U.S.S. Arizona was completely destroyed and the U.S.S. Oklahoma capsized. A total of twelve ships sank or were beached in the attack and nine additional vessels were damaged. More than 160 aircraft were destroyed and more than 150 others damaged…..”

(Excerpt taken from Library of Congress, Air Raid on Pearl Harbor. To read the entire article, visit the Library of Congress website.. )

3rd Annual Tom's Turkey Trot

Fall is a wonderful time in New Jersey to take a ride through some of the towns off the beaten path. The trees are painted with shades of orange, red, yellow, and yes, even green and brown. Put them all together and it’s beautiful!

Toms 3rd Annual Turkey Trot took advantage of a wonderful (not rainy) weekend to take a drive out along the Weston Canal to the Tiger’s Tale for lunch. Here’s what it looked like as they cruised on down the road and enjoyed a meal with friends…

Grab a coffee, wine or a beer - sit back and enjoy!!! Sunday Nov. 12th, 2023 Tom's Turkey Trot - Galloping Hill Cruisers and friends. Just having some fun,,,, Hope you enjoy!!!!! Thank you Tom Paterson!!!

"NJ Ice Cream Man"

This past summer, Jiffy Lube and Good Humor teamed up to keep mobile ice cream vendors on the road by offering complimentary preventive maintenance coupons to ice cream truck drivers. Congratulations to New Jersey’s own “NJ Ice Cream Man”, Tommy Geisor, who represented Good Humor in their “Keep Summer Rolling” commercial. In the event you missed it, here it is for your viewing pleasure...

How Many Horsepower is Santa's Sleigh?l

Enough about the “Lead Sled”, let’s talk Santa’s sled! I thought it might be interesting to spend some time on the subject because, after all, it is that time of the year when, while nestled in bed, we are kept up wondering—just how many horsepower IS Santa’s sleigh with it’s eight flying reindeer?!?! Afer all, the jolly old guy has to make it around the world, leaving presents beneath the tree, for millions or billions of children in a single evening!

If you are like me, you might be surprised to know about how much research has gone into answering this burning question.

Well, here are some facts about Santa’s sleigh and it’s equivalent of reindeer power (RP) to horsepower (HP) and the research that has been done on the subject. ...More...

Just how did that tradition start? A little time and research and the answer is clear as the nose on my pumpkin’s face.

The name, jack-o'-lantern, comes from an Irish folktale about a man named Stingy Jack. According to the story, Stingy Jack invited the Devil to have a drink with him. Of course, because he was stingy, he had no intention of paying for the drink. Blessed with the gift of gab, he was able to convince the Devil to turn himself into a coin that Jack could use to buy their drinks. Once the Devil did so, Jack decided to keep the money and put it into his pocket next to a silver cross, which prevented the Devil from changing back into his original form.

Eventually Jack freed the Devil, on two conditions - he would not bother Jack for one year and that, should Jack die, he would not claim his soul. The next year, Jack tricked the Devil again. This time, he had the devil climb into a tree to pick a piece of fruit. While he was up in the tree, Jack carved a sign of the cross into the tree’s bark so that the Devil could not come down until the Devil promised Jack not to bother him for ten more years.

Soon after, Jack died. As the legend goes, God would not allow such an unsavory figure into heaven. Th
e Devil, upset by the trick Jack had played on him and keeping his word not to claim his soul, would not allow Jack into hell.Instead he sent Jack off into the night with only a burning coal to light his way. Jack put the coal into a carved-out turnip and has been roaming the Earth with it ever since. This ghostly figure was referred to as “Jack of the Lantern,” and then, simply “Jack O’Lantern.”

Irish immigrants brought the tradition of carving pumpkins to America, and to this day the jack-o-lantern is a staple Halloween decoration.

What fun we had as kids, sitting at the kitchen table, knife and spoon in hand...and our Halloween pumpkin.

Ahhh, those were the days. Each year we’d pick just the right pumpkin for our vision. Somehow mine always had a happy face regardless of the missing teeth. My friend’s pumpkin always had a face made of fruit and vegetables, something like a Mr. Potato Head.

History of the Jack-O-Lantern

Every year, the Veterans Day National Committee of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs holds a nationwide poster contest and decides what image will be displayed across the U.S. in honor of the people who have served in the United States military.

This year, the theme was “A Legacy of Loyalty and Service.” and an award-winning illustration by Myisha Godette was chosen for the official poster....Godette "...chose to symbolize the shared experience of service members—past, present, and future—with elements like the American Flag, military 'dog tags,' and the enduring strength of Veterans ..." in the award winning illustration.