June Gatherings, 2026

By Morris Garagian

The British Roadster weather gods had to be in a good mood. On June 6, Bro Martin organized a truly outstanding run for our LBCs on CA 245 and it is only because Morris did not get any pictorial evidence of that trip that there is no write up.

However, on June 20, the VBAC had an opportunity to participate in two great, back-to-back events. Bro Bill Van Deelan set up a Cars and Coffee (not to confuse this event with that of the Porsche Club monthly get together, this event was touted as Crankshafts & Caffeine) to be followed by a Poker Run organized by Bro Russ.

First Crankshafts & Caffeine: Bill let the VBAC know that the event would be held at a private residence of a fellow ‘gearhead’. I’m still not sure how many vehicles were in the modern Carriage House (I kid you not, that was on a plaque outside). There was at least one modern Mustang, a Porsche, and either a Maserati or Ferrari on the lifts. The best adjectives to use describing the residence would be palatial and opulent. I don’t want to even try to describe the wine cellar. The VBAC was well represented with Bill, Russ & Tammy, Martin, Mike & Kristy, Dan, Nick & Ashley & son, Charles & Virginia (who are still looking for their next Brit car), Bernie, and Morris. This was a fun gathering with plenty of donuts & coffee and about 25 vehicles-everything from a Model A (Chas & Virginia) and a vintage VW van to ultra- modern Porsches. A big thanks to Bill for setting this up and inviting the Brits!

At about 9:30, Russ got the participants of the Poker Run ready to go. After an ‘intro fee’, Russ handed out the first playing card. Morris was pleased to see the ace of hearts, not too bad a start. With Martin sweeping, the group was east bound and down. Our next stop was the ‘park & go’ lot at Prather and a 7. On to Mono Wind Casino where I noticed the BRG Midget was not behind Goblin, being replaced with a white 914 that had joined our Anglo autos. Parking at the lot, we checked with Martin and found Bernie had had an issue. Martin & Morris were heading back to check on Bernie, when he arrived. After finding that Bernie decided to head homeward bound, the next card was given, a 3. From there, Russ guided our group up Auberry Road to the top of the four lane and the next card, a 10. This was not looking good. From here, we headed toward Shaver Lake and the Hungry Hut where lunch awaited us. Here we picked up our last card, another 7 and, to our surprise, the winning poker hand with a pair of 7s.

After lunch and conversation, it was time to return to the valley. Checking with Bernie later, he suspected his 20 yr. old after-market fuel pump was the issue for his FTP. Thanks to Russ for the great run.

 Safety Fast!