STILL HAMMERIN’
InTheGarageMedia.com
Rob Fortier Headshot
BY ROB FORTIER
Two Steps Forward…

J

ust when it seems we’re out of the woods, so to speak, we wake up to find out we’re even deeper in the forest with no signs of a clearing. It’s frustrating, to say the least, and I’m only speaking for myself, as I can’t even begin to fathom the hardships being endured by those of you forced out of work … again.

But in light of all the negative aspects related to our nationwide epidemic, it turns out that pretty much every single manufacturer and major shop in our industry is reporting record business/sales thus far for 2020. Even feedback from the first-ever “virtual” SEMA360, the aftermarket is kicking some serious hind end! Here’s to those able to support the aftermarket and sustain your ability to build/drive or even own a classic truck in the first place; for those barely able to sustain your ability to get by, period, hang in there … let’s hope the worst is soon to be behind us and 2021 a fresh, clean slate.

As of this writing (mid-November), I’ve attended two—yes, two—formal events: The C10 Intervention and, as of this past weekend, Dino’s Git Down. Now, that’s not to say these are the only two events to have been successfully held since the lockdowns were first enacted back in March—there have been quite a few across the U.S., including various Goodguys and NSRA national events. But due to travel restrictions and general quarantine issues, I’ve been lucky enough to have the ability to at least get to two of the best Chevy truck shows there are.

Rob Fortier in a car

It’s still really odd, however, that with an industry doing so well—better than it’s ever been for a majority of companies—there’s so little for us enthusiasts to do with our projects, let alone without them! I can only imagine the number of “fresh” trucks out there just itching for a proper debut, whether it be at the local cruise night or an annual national event. Again, here’s hoping 2021 holds in store for us all these opportunities that, so far, 2020 hasn’t been able to.

So, what do we do in the meantime? Here’s an idea: read magazines! This, our fourth effort to date, marks the end of our initial bi-monthly frequency and the beginning of CTP going monthly … that’s right, starting with our Jan. ’21 issue, you can expect to see CTP in your mailbox and/or your inbox 12 times (24 if you subscribed to both!) this coming year. See, right there’s one great thing to look forward to that 2020 didn’t have! We look forward to accommodating all your classic truck needs on a monthly basis, no matter what it takes. Thank you again for your continued support!