We all have that buddy that has a personality that simply transcends his size and space within this world, and StangBangerz.com founder Vinny Changet was that guy in the Cincinnati-area Mustang scene for years. Better known as “Vinny5oh”, Changet brought together the local racing scene in a way that simply couldn’t have been done by anyone else – he created a family that exists to this day, and some of the members of that family have gone on to prominence on the national racing scene. 

Vinny was a crazy dude – always willing to host or liven up the party, no matter where, when or how many people attended, Vinny was the one who got things hoppin’. StangBangerz became a place where the local racers could hang out, share their lives, and be themselves – in short, he was the leader of a group of people that had a common bond – the Mustang. 

TwistedTwins – Thanks to Todd Savidge for the photo!

He was a well-respected member of many Mustang message boards, back in the days before Facebook and other forms of social media took over. Changet was always around to offer an ear, or a helping hand, or tech advice to those less knowledgeable.

Vinny left behind a beautiful, wonderful soulmate, Holly, just a short time after they got married, and to this day she still carries a torch for the man of her dreams.

One of the quotes in the top video will give you a short glimpse into the man.

“All the family support you need is right here, with your other family Becoming a man is about making your decisions for you. It’s natural to want their acceptance, it’s another to earn it. Go show ’em.” – Vinny5oh

Vinny was in the process of building a badass twin-turbo Mustang when he passed, named TwistedTwins. He never finished the car, but his friends did – and the story of the car is captured in the video below. The car is now owned by Todd Savidge and lives on in Vinny’s memory. 

So if you’re out and about tonight, raise a glass and say a toast to a wonderful man who left us far too early. Hope you’re up there doing burnouts and kickin’ ass, Vin!