Page 16 - Issue 41

WORDS AND PHOTOS ORDS AND PHOTOS
In the most recent installments
of Downshifting, I’ve been
offering my advice for how to
Ikeep things fair when it comes
to your trade, your time, and
last issue, your tools. This
time, I tackle the only other
road-going piece of equipment
you own that might be more
important than your rod: your
trailer.
16 RAT ROD MAGAZINE ISSUE FORTY-ONE
16x19 Rockabilly.indd 16
W
BY JEREMY AMENDOLA
BY JEREMY AMENDOLA
hen I heard about a show happening in
Arkansas, I said to myself “Hey, I’ve never
been to that state! Let’s go!” The title
itself just about explains it: Rats, Tats
Wand Rockabilly. Cars of all variety but
with a strong rat rod presence, a tattoo convention
going on with several local shops inside and lastly
a large staging area housing the bands like The
Derailers and Reverend Horton Heat for evening
entertainment. On-site swapping, Steve Darnell from
Welderup meet and greet, wagon contest, many
food and apparel vendors, face painting, bouncy
house; literally something for everyone.
Located in the hills of Arkansas is Fort Smith…
quintessential small-town America, accented by a
love of old cars and trucks. Being away from the rust
belt and harmful contaminants that we battle up in
the north, vehicles can develop true mother-nature-
made patina and not the heavy rot we see with salt.
It was evident from the operation and organization
of the show that these guys and gals did their
homework before hosting a fi rst-year event. Soaking up
the beautiful weather on Labor Day weekend, I couldn’t
think of a place I’d rather hang out with new friends. The
hospitality and friendly vibe was very welcoming.
12/12/16 7:30 AM