My name is Walt. I grew up in Englewood located in Chicago, Illinois. Inspired by my Dad, a mechanic, my passion for cars began at a very early age. From Matchbook cars to building Revel Models Cars to Hot Wheels Racing Tracks. My favorite cartoon was Speed Racer. As a junior in high school, my Dad gifted me a 1970 Dodge Charger, 440c.i. 4spd. That gift sealed the deal. I knew then that I was destined to be a "Gearhead" for the rest of my life.

Mom and Dad taught me and my siblings the importance of caring about those less fortunate than us and they lead by example.

My Dad owned a tow truck. At nine or ten years old I loved to ride with him and watch him manually shift gears sometimes without engaging the clutch. I was never able to do that...lol. If he ran across a stranded motorist he'd stop to help day or night, even if he wasn't working that day. If the person was short on funds, many times he'd refuse to take a single dime.

Passion for charitable acts and Hot Rods led to the birth to Off The Grid Car Club.