Auto Body students at BOCES help transform 1954 ‘Rat Rod’

Provided photos: This 1954 International Rat Road is looking good after work from students in the Orleans/Niagara BOCES.

MEDINA – When Orleans/Niagara BOCES Human Resources secretary Shawna Baldwin wanted her 1954 International Rat Rod “Tubby” refinished for her Christmas store, she knew exactly where to go.

She talked to Orleans Career and Technical Education Center Auto Body teacher James Rozewski to see if he had some students who might be willing to work with her to snazz it up for her “Christmas in Shawna’s Barn” opening in Medina.

He recommended two of his juniors, Barker students Briley Huwyler and Adam Parris to help her out.

“My car is made from different parts like a Frankenstein creation,” she explained. “It has a 307 engine from a 1968 Camero and parts from all over. I purchased it five years ago to use in my adventures and advertising the shop. My husband, Chris and I painted it a few years ago, but I wanted it to reflect my store so I changed it to green.”

Baldwin who has experience with aging folk art pieces, taught the students her technique to age the paint.

“After painting the international letters, I showed them how to make it look like it had been there for a while,” she said. “I truly loved working with the students. They were creative, willing to learn, and great to work with. I am so happy with the result and will think of Briley and Adam every time I drive it.”

Pictured from left include Orleans Career and Technical Education Center Principal Nicole Goyette, Shawna Baldwin and students Adam Parris (Barker) and Briley Huwyler (Barker), and Auto Body teacher James Rozewski.