AT THE REDLINE JOHN KRAMAN John found career success as a sales manager of autos and then aircrafts, and he is a licensed Federal Aviation Administration pilot and mechanic. He joined Mecum in 2006 and is now the director of company relations and the company spokesperson at public events. As the supervisor of Mecum’s on-air talent, Kraman further utilizes his skillset as a commentator and analyst for the televised coverage of Mecum auctions on NBC Sports Network. He enjoys tending to his personal car collection, spending time with his wife Christine, four grown children and five grandchildren, and also performing in the classic rock trio “Redline 7000.” AN AUTO LEGEND Among the aspects I appreciate most about my role at Mecum Auctions is the opportunity to travel to a variety of automotive events to meet and chat with other car enthusiasts in attendance. A few years ago, I was a guest at the impressive Dr. George Car Show in Indian Wells, California, where I got to meet a bona fide auto legend. Peter Brock and his wife, Gayle, had a display showcasing their latest venture: the Aerovault car-hauling trailer, which is truly a design masterpiece. Crafted in lightweight aluminum with an aerodynamic design, the trailers are built by the Brocks in Henderson, Nevada, and they’re marketed to those seeking a most efficient and unique way to haul precious automotive cargo. While visiting with the Brocks in Indian Wells, I was able to purchase a pair of historical books written by Peter and was delighted to hear that he is a regular viewer of Mecum Auctions on NBCSN. More about the books later, as I added them to my 300-plus library, which is split between my office, man cave and even a bookcase in our guest bedroom. Fast forward to March 2020. While I was covering the action at the Mecum Glendale, Arizona, auction, I was asked to record some segments in Las Vegas for an upcoming Mecum Presents TV special on the incredible John Atzbach Collection headed to Dana Mecum’s 33rd Original Spring Classic at Indianapolis. My 2020 Dodge Challenger Hemi R/T rental car, courtesy of an upgrade, was the ideal ride for the 300-mile journey up the spectacular US Route 93 S highway from Glendale to Vegas. The rumble of the 5.7L Hemi, with standard active exhaust since 2017, along with the breathtaking desert scenery made for an unexpected yet enjoyable and memorable commute. But the best was yet to come, as I soon learned that Peter Brock would be present to take part in the Vegas recording session as well. So, let me tell you a bit about Pete. Born in 1936, he discovered the allure of cars as a young teen and quickly developed an eye and talent for design and a passion for racing. While still in high school, his tastefully customized 1946 Ford Convertible, powered by a Cadillac OHV V-8, won its class at the prestigious Oakland Roadster Show and then repeated the honor in 1956. While a student at Stanford University, Brock transferred to the Art Center School, now known as The Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California, where he caught the attention of a General Motors talent scout. At age 19, he became the youngest designer ever hired by the GM Styling design department. 30 • MECUM.COM
