My father at age 15 bought his first truck, a 1984 Chevy Scottsdale, which he could only drive with a licensed adult. This person was usually his mother who had to use a five-gallon bucket to get into the truck. My dad worked on a grain and livestock farm, which meant the truck quickly became your typical “farm truck,” hauling hay, pulling equipment, and even· warming newborn baby calves in the cab.

When my dad got married he sold the truck locally and couldn’t imagine why he sold his first truck. Luckily, he was able to buy it back within a year. Shortly after that, the transmission went out of it and it sat for 10 years.

By this time, I was in the picture and I was 14 years old. I expressed interest in restoring the old truck. My dad contacted a friend of his Adam Edwards, owner of Special Eddie’s Kustom Paint in Pleasant View, IL. They started making a plan to get the truck restored. After putting a transmission and new battery in it and cleaning the carburetor, it fired up immediately. I was able to help Adam, and teaching by his example, sharing his personal advice and experiences, we were able to get the truck fully restored and in prestige shape. Adam gave me confidence that I appreciated and can share with others.

It is with great satisfaction and price that “Old Goldberg,” once a dirty fragrant farm truck has now become a parade truck, winning many trophies and plaques.

Special thanks to my family and Adam Edwards.