Discussion Forum - Northstar Chevelle Club

SShink · 3K+ Club

2021 Street Machine Nationals

Derek69SS · Founding Member

I'm not holding my breath... again.
I'll wait to register until there's some degree of certainty that it will occur.

Lost in the 60s · President

Charging for parking spots is just another way to get more money out of the participants. More social injustice at a flammable time to be introducing that. If they need more funding raise the entrance fee, NOT sell parking areas to those who are willing to fork out the money.
Sorry, but they may well have lost me altogether over this crap, just like Hastings did years ago when they were selling parking spots on the corners.

Chris R · 2K+ Club

Lost in the 60s wrote:
Charging for parking spots is just another way to get more money out of the participants. More social injustice at a flammable time to be introducing that. If they need more funding raise the entrance fee, NOT sell parking areas to those who are willing to fork out the money.
Sorry, but they may well have lost me altogether over this crap, just like Hastings did years ago when they were selling parking spots on the corners.

It certainly does feel that way doesn't it Mitch? With no event last year perhaps they were looking for other ways to gain some extra money to cover for there being no show last year & with BTTF canceled for this year, probably no show again for SMN this year either. My thought though, squeaky wheel is finally getting the grease & with tons of clubs marking off spots perhaps they got enough complaints of the non club participants and the SMN people finally took notice but then you would think they would just create rules to deal with that but then, its no money in their pocket.

From the looks of it, you arrange with them to organize a spot instead of marking off your own if you want a spot. Or, maybe its time to bring back the 2am meetup and you guys can drive in as a group and settle on a place together. Not sure if that hassle is worth the saving of 25 bucks though.

Jon H · 1K+ Club

With the exception of the price being outrageous I kind of agree with their basic idea. After several years of nearly getting into physical confrontations trying to save club space the whole roping off program was way out of control.

Tony Hoffer · Moderator

Looks like I'm out this year. I wear a mask over 40 hours a week at work. It's not my idea of fun to have to wear one outside for paid recreation. "All guests must bring and be wearing their own cloth face mask for entry into the Fairgrounds and must wear it while walking around the show. There may be times when we reach maximum capacity inside the fairgrounds and will ask participants/spectators to wait until the number of attendees has decreased and we can safely allow additional people into the event. Additional COVID safety measures and precautions may apply and may be changed at any time. No refunds will be given to people who are not willing to comply."

Derek69SS · Founding Member

COVID only spreads inside the gates... everybody gather together by the entrance and wait in line to get in so that we can make sure you're spread out properly once inside.

SShink · 3K+ Club

I'm missing the 'big show' so much that I don't mind masking up and the fee for a 3 day show, so going to register soon. I have a feeling the masking requirements will change by then and will not be required, and I've had both vaccine shots so feel safer being around people.

I'm on the fence on reserving a spot as I'm waiting to hear if we're going to try to do anything as a club, or if the other club we belong to do is doing anything. As Jon H. mentioned, it would be nice not to have someone camped out on credential pickup day and fight the FX$D club next to us from taking more of the usual spots, and know that you have a spot no matter what time of the day you get there.

Do the club Officers have any thoughts on if we want to reserve spots for club members (up to 15 can be reserved) or not? Maybe the officers can have an ad hoc meeting to discuss or wait until the May 22nd meeting to discuss? There's probably still enough time unless registration fills up sooner with those that don't mind masking up and the fees.

Derek69SS · Founding Member

They just confirmed there's no Street Machine Challenge this year.

I think I might go watch the vintage races at Road America that weekend instead.

Tony Hoffer · Moderator

The Mask mandate get rescinded in Minnesota today. Wonder if this will change the last restriction at the event?

Tony Hoffer · Moderator

Has anyone reserved a spot on our usual corner yet? Looks like 13 of so left. I'd post a picture, but this antiquated forum software requires remote hosting.

SShink · 3K+ Club

Tony Hoffer wrote:
Has anyone reserved a spot on our usual corner yet? Looks like 13 of so left. I'd post a picture, but this antiquated forum software requires remote hosting.

We need to keep in mind that each 'spot' is a 20x20 space, so I think we could get 2 cars to fit in each spot width wise and still have some room in between?

I'm going to text Hank to take a look at this thread, as the early bird registration is up in a couple of weeks, and I'm guessing spots may start filling up quicker.

Tony-Did you find a map of the spots during the registration process that you can share the link? Thanks

Tony Hoffer · Moderator

I can't share the map.. only think to get to it. https://streetmachinenationals.ticketspice.com/2021-reserved-vehicle-display-space-st-paul

Tony Hoffer · Moderator

I did send a message to Bonnier to see if the mask requirement had been lifted since the governor has rescinded the statewide order. I got a reply but they weren't sure yet

hkgmillette · President

The Board has made a decision on the Club purchasing an allotment of parking spots. We will NOT be doing so, mostly because of the logistics of distributing them. More will be discussed at the meeting on May 22nd. If a Club member wants to coordinate parking spots for/with other Club members, I encourage you to do so.

SShink · 3K+ Club

I've registered, and reserved a spot on the corner where we usually park across from Giggles if anyone else wants to try to reserve their spot in the same area. The map is showing there are currently 13 open spots in that area left.

One thing to note that is different when I reserved it, is that the space is 15X20, NOT 20X20, so just enough room for one car.

Since I plan on spending all day Friday, Sat. a.m., and maybe Sun a.m. this year, I don't mind spending the 25 bucks knowing I can come and go as I please without losing the spot.

Tony Hoffer · Moderator

I'm still waiting on a mask ruling from the fair board.

Tony Hoffer · Moderator

Just confirmed. The Twin cities auto show is not requiring masks. No change in the requirement on the MSRA web page or The Bonnier events page. Hmmm.

Tony Hoffer · Moderator

Tony Veneziano of Bonnier just e-mailed me. Masks will be optional at the show. What space did you reserve Stan?

Tony Hoffer · Moderator

Just reserved row A seat 18 on cosgrove.. still 6 or so available near the corner. A ton of spots are ready gone!

SShink · 3K+ Club

Tony Hoffer wrote:
Tony Veneziano of Bonnier just e-mailed me. Masks will be optional at the show. What space did you reserve Stan?

I reserved what shows as the spot exactly on the corner-blue dot below. Here's the confirmation details:

Section Cosgrove St Lot North, Row A, Seat 20

69SSConv · Active Member

I registered for the spot next to Stan I believe (19)

Tony Hoffer · Moderator

I'm 3 up from the corner

ghaasl · Active Member

I’m in spot 17. Looking forward to it! I suppose this means I need to wash and wax before the show, I should clean the car too

-- Edited by ghaasl on Tuesday 18th of May 2021 09:33:07 PM

Bill Leigh · Member

Well Im in as well, spot 16 on Lee ave! kinda nice not worrying about the spot this year, not liking the fee but it is what it is. Crap, this means I am going to have to polish the beast this time..LOL

Lost in the 60s · President

ghaasl wrote:
I’m in spot 17. Looking forward to it! I suppose this means I need to wash and wax before the show, I should clean the car too

-- Edited by ghaasl on Tuesday 18th of May 2021 09:33:07 PM

Dampen it and throw copious amounts of dust on and call it a barn find...

ghaasl · Active Member

Lost in the 60s wrote:
ghaasl wrote:
I’m in spot 17. Looking forward to it! I suppose this means I need to wash and wax before the show, I should clean the car too

-- Edited by ghaasl on Tuesday 18th of May 2021 09:33:07 PM
Dampen it and throw copious amounts of dust on and call it a barn find...

Then I’ll tell everyone that it’s a super rare, 1 of 1 Malibu with a 396, TH400 and 10 bolt.

Lost in the 60s · President

ghaasl wrote:
Lost in the 60s wrote:
ghaasl wrote:
I’m in spot 17. Looking forward to it! I suppose this means I need to wash and wax before the show, I should clean the car too

-- Edited by ghaasl on Tuesday 18th of May 2021 09:33:07 PM
Dampen it and throw copious amounts of dust on and call it a barn find...
Then I’ll tell everyone that it’s a super rare, 1 of 1 Malibu with a 396, TH400 and 10 bolt.

COPO ordered L89, no less, and factory 4.10 geared, 10 bolt posi...

-- Edited by Lost in the 60s on Thursday 20th of May 2021 06:01:01 PM

hkgmillette · President

I just registered and reserved a spot. I will be across the street in Row B Seat 17, so the last one on the other side.

BLyke · 1K+ Club

I'm all signed up "Row B, Seat 8" on Cosgrove

-- Edited by BLyke on Saturday 22nd of May 2021 05:19:07 PM

ghaasl · Active Member

Okay, I have 2 questions that I could probably answer with a google search. But, I’d rather ask the club. 1. Are easy up type canopies allowed if under a certain size? I have a feeling I’m going to want some shade. 2. Are coolers with pop, water, and beer allowed? Not that I want to get all tuned up, but, a cold beer or 2 on a hot day would taste really good.

Lost in the 60s · President

Pop up's are allowed.
The club has 1 pop up that is usually there during the day, and some water in a cooler.

I don't think you can bring alcohol onto the grounds, only purchase there.

ghaasl · Active Member

Thanks for the info! Looks like a cooler of water/electrolyte beverages it will be.

hkgmillette · President

The club pop-up is too long to fit in my trunk. You need a truck or el camino to haul it. I am planning on having water there.

-- Edited by hkgmillette on Monday 21st of June 2021 08:09:38 PM

ghaasl · Active Member

Hankster, I see they’re still dogging you with the VP title. I’ll only be there on Saturday. I plan on picking up all of my registration stuff the Thursday before, as my new gig is right off of 280 and Como on Hunting Valley Road.

SShink · 3K+ Club

I saw on FB today that there WILL be QA1 Autocross, Dyno competition, and burn out contest, so pretty much back to the normal things to check out which will be fun to watch.

Derek69SS · Founding Member

I've always been conflicted about that weekend, and cancelling the "Street Machine Challenge" was the motivation I needed to change my plans, and go to the vintage races at Road America instead. https://www.roadamerica.com/weathertech-international-challenge-brian-redman

Tony Hoffer · Moderator

As usual its going to come down to the wire. My car hasn't been run in 2 years. I'll finally have some time this weekend to get it up and running.. wish luck

ghaasl · Active Member

I’m prepping the car next week. Wax, chrome polish, resetting my iPod for tunes on the way down, received my EZ up today. Just need to buy some water/Gatorade and pack the lawn chairs.

SShink · 3K+ Club

ghaasl wrote:
I’m prepping the car next week. Wax, chrome polish, resetting my iPod for tunes on the way down, received my EZ up today. Just need to buy some water/Gatorade and pack the lawn chairs.

Gavin, is this your first SMN's?

If so, you're in for a treat. It's my favorite event due to the atmosphere, all the types of vehicles, watching autocross, and of course seeing friends that I sometimes only see at this show.

I've been to a lot of car events including Barrett Jackson, etc. and there's something special about the fairground atmosphere that I enjoy. I've even been known to drive up from Kansas City just to go to the SMN's even without entering when we lived down south.

Not a fan of the burn out competition, but that's just me. Lol

ghaasl · Active Member

It'll be my first as a participant. I've walked the show a few times. I remember when it was the Car Craft Summer Nationals. I never entered my Cougar when I owned that. It wasn't a worthy car to have at the show. I'm looking forward to seeing everyone there. I'm bringing my dad as well. He's only had one ride in the Chevelle and I didn't really show him the acceleration potential. Next week is car care week being that Emily is out of town on business. It gives me the time I need to give the car a proper wax (get to use the new buffer!) and other stuff. Sorry that I missed the cruise last weekend, it looked like a blast.

SShink · 3K+ Club

Looking forward to seeing you there and hanging out Gavin!

That's cool you're bringing your Dad and showing him the power of a Chevelle. I took my Dad, who's gone now, for a ride once in the 71 Chevelle that had a 4 speed and 396, and put a BIG grin on his face, and he wasn't known to smile much! Spend as much time as you can with parents when they're around.

ghaasl · Active Member

Stan, I’m trying. A couple years back we lost my mom. She never got a ride in the Chevelle. But, she got to see it, touch it, and hear it. I’ve had my dad in the car once. I didn’t really get on it too hard. When he was young, he bought a ‘68 Roadrunner brand new so he knows a little, just not fully. Im looking forward to hanging out with you too and getting to know everyone a little better. Looks like Im up the block 3 or so spots from you. I’m only coming on Saturday. I’m hoping I’ll be able to catch most that are participating. See you there!

Tony Hoffer · Moderator

Got the car fired today. It's not running well and between work and other commitments it's doubtful I'll have it sorted in time. I'll come on foot one day for sure.

BLyke · 1K+ Club

SMN event this Friday 7:00 to 9:00

FYI

ta;ked to a guy who works there, not sure is I will be going but thought some may be interested

IT’S OFFICIAL! The QA1 Open House and #goDRIVEit Cruise is BACK!
Come join us for our 8th Annual Open House at our new QA1 facility!
Each year, we invite enthusiasts to get an inside look at our operations and manufacturing facility by spending the morning at our annual Open House and #goDRIVEit Cruise. Held the Friday morning of Street Machine Nationals, the open house will feature tours of our new facility! Whether you've come every year or will be joining for the first time, we want you to come show off your car.
Then join our #goDRIVEit Cruise to the Minnesota State Fairgrounds from QA1 to attend the 2021 Street Machine Nationals, where QA1 is encouraging people to #goDRIVEit at the QA1 Autocross. Those who have preregistered for the Street Machine Nationals and picked up their registration packet Thursday night will have preferred entrance to the show as part of our cruise. If you have not preregistered, you are still welcome for the cruise, but will not be granted preferred entrance at the fairgrounds.
Please follow this link to RSVP to our Open House event! (FREE) https://bit.ly/3gRNobK
#goDRIVEit Cruise to Street Machine Nationals
• We will leave as a group from QA1 and head to the fairgrounds. Maps of the route will be available that day.
• If you pre-registered with SMN and have already picked up your packet, you can cruise to the fairgrounds with us and get preferred entrance.
• Those who have not registered or picked up their packets are welcome to participate in the cruise, but they must break off and head to the regular entrance at the fairgrounds

SShink · 3K+ Club

Tony Hoffer wrote:
Got the car fired today. It's not running well and between work and other commitments it's doubtful I'll have it sorted in time. I'll come on foot one day for sure.

Well shoot. Did you pay for a reserved spot Tony? I forget.

Someone in the club might be interested in buying it?

hkgmillette · President

Stan, Bill and I are meeting at the Kwik Trip on Highway 97 in Forest Lake on Friday morning at 8 AM and then heading down to the fairgrounds, if any one wants to join us.

Address/Map: www.screencast.com/t/jhTyuxLtqXqM

ghaasl · Active Member

I'll be picking my pass/registration up this Friday on my lunch break as I work about 3 miles from the fairgrounds. I'll see you all Saturday morning!

BLyke · 1K+ Club

I'm a bit confused on when and where you pickup your materials if you registration line
do you go to the fairgrounds on Thursday or register as you arrive on Friday?

hkgmillette · President

Bruce - If you have registered online, You need to first pick up your registration information before entering the fairgrounds. Early registrants can pick up their information starting on Thursday afternoon. I believe the email said from 12 to 6. You need to go to a black trailer in the North parking lot of the fairgrounds. If you have not done an early registration, you still need to go to the black trailer in the North parking lot of the fairgrounds to get registered.