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Four contests a year mean hot competition at this
progressive New Jersey Hobby Shop!
(car model magazine circa 1965)

Danny's Hobby Shop in Bergenfield, N.J., is a "typical" hobby shop - but in the world of car models,
the word typical actually means progressive. Danny is interested in promoting the hobby as a whole,
not just is selling models. He knows that one way to do that is to hold contests, and although
his shop is not a large one in size, it's a big contest center. Yes, Danny holds four a year!
A recent one which we attended drew entries form all over northern Hew Jersey. The competition was
very rough, and winners were difficult to choose. But, as usual, neat workmanship and fine detailing made
a few models really stand out, and their careful builders took home the trophies. Car Model's "Best in
Show" trophy went to 15 year old Robert Luce of Cresskill, N.J., for his beautifully finished (Pactra Kandy
Wild Cherry) 1962 Thunderbird. Bob put two months' work into this highly detailed car, which is only
the second model he's ever built. That kind of talent certainly deserves an award/ "First is Show" winner
William S. Riley, Jr., of Englewood, N. J., is slightly more experienced. At the age of 20 Bill owns
700 cars. However, this was also the first contest he had entered.
His winning '49 Ford exhibits extensive body work - it's been chopped, sectioned and
channeled-- and a unique paint job of black with gold striping. Bill put a total of 100 hours
spread out over six months into the construction of this beauty.
Ken Georg of Dumont, N.J., who is 16 took "Second in Show" for his thoroughly re-styled '40
Ford coupe; while another 15 year old, Tom Ulbrich of Ridgefield, Par, ran third for a '25
Ford which he has re-worked into a four-door sedan and equipped with a blown Corvette mill. And,
because there were just so many models deserving of recognition, we gave a fourth place award
(one year's subscription) to Bob Petronzio, 15 of Dumont, for his re-work '59 Corvette with bubble
top and candy Oriental purple paint job.

All of these winners deserve to take a big bow. And let's not forget Danny, who arranged
the whole thing and continues to work tirelessly to promote more and better contests.
Take a big bow, too, Danny !


Danny Italiano and Robert Luce
. . .