8 Thunderbirds flock to the party.

WHAT WE TAKE FOR GRANTED

Often, what we take for granted, other people dream of. Such was the case of Cora Claypool. About a month or so ago, I received an email thru the club's website. Jill said her mother was turning 80 and they were planning a surprise party for her (she is also a 3 year survivor of pancreatic cancer). One of the items on her bucket list was to take a ride in a 1957 Thunderbird. Was there anything we could do?

By coincidence, the club was planning an outing in the area of the party on the day of the party. We arranged to stop by at a preset time and give Cora a ride in a 1957 Thunderbird. People at the party were amazed when 8 Thunderbirds pulled up in front of the house (1 1955, 1 1956, 5 1957s and 1 1959). Cora was absolutely ecstatic. Len gave her a short ride in his 1957. Then she got in Bob's 1956 (with the top down) and they were gone for 15-20 minutes. While people at the party were looking over the remaining cars, Cora was having a dream come true.

The family was very appreciative of what we did. When I asked Cora why she wanted a ride in a 1957 Thunderbird, she replied that she always thought of it as THE American sports car. She was very excited and thrilled about the opportunity. If we had more time I am sure she would have loved to go for a ride in each of the cars. About a short hour later, we were on our way. Everyone was happy about what we did- but no one was happier than Cora. I think we helped make it a special day for her.

Joel Greenberg

Crystal Lake and more

Crystal Lake Excursion, A Happy Birthday and A Smokin' Dog & Suds

The  Saturday of Memorial Day week-end was a sunny, blue sky day;  the kind of day to which T-Birders look forward.  An initial group of CTCC members started the day at the Foundry in Barrington including our 
leaders, the Bruins (top down), Jim Wilson, the Werths, Joel Greenberg and Ed Levin and Rose.  The Kellys brought up the rear with their '59 as both the last to arrive and official outing tail gunner.

We drove to down town Crystal Lake where the Keils and Hoges joined the group.  The ladies explored the shops on main street while the guys quickly found the candy/ice cream shop and a place to sit and enjoy their purchases, (Tom Bruin tried the chocolate covered bacon), and Larry Kelly managed to find the only bar in town.

There was a lot of browsing, but not much shopping until the kitchen store.  That's where Liz Werth and Mary Keil purchased a little, round gizmo that makes potato chips in the microwave.  Now, this is a rough
estimate, but if they start zapping now, we may have enough for the Fall Tour!

Our next stop was a definite highlight of the day.  The children of a woman about to turn 80 found our club on the internet.  Their mother always wanted to ride in a 1957 Thunderbird, a bucket list kind of
thing.  They contacted Joel Greenberg and asked if there was any way we could help them surprise their mom on her Birthday.

We were only to happy to oblige.  (We don't like showing off our cars much, do we?)  So off we went!  We drove the short distance to the Claypools' for operation birthday surprise.

Mrs. Claypool was thrilled and received her ride in a '57 driven by Len Keil.  Afterwords, one of her grandchildren remarked, "Don't you want to go in one with the lid off?"  So, Bob Hoge and his top down
'56 took Mrs. Claypool on another ride around the neighborhood.

Mr. Claypool and his family could not have been nicer.  We were given a very warm welcome complete with hugs and many thanks.  They had no idea we would bring so many cars!  And we were happy to have added to Mrs. Claypool's birthday cheer.  Mr. Claypool didn't think he'd stop hearing about it any time soon.

Now, it was on to the first cruise night of the season to meet even more T-Birders at the Fox Lake Dog & Suds.  The evening was so popular most of us had to park in the train station lot across the street. A
couple of our group arrived early enough to secure two spots at the drive in and at least one member was in the adjacent lot. Thunderbirds were represented well with 19 cars, though not all from our club.  We received a shout out from the disc jockey thanking the
Thunderbirds for coming out in force.

We gathered at picnic tables and set up chairs to listen to the oldies and enjoy our Dog & Suds eats and treats together.

As the sun and temperature started to dip, the Kellys walked to the train lot to pick up sweaters from their car.  There, parked two cars in back of them was the Michna's car with a swirl of commotion surrounding it.  Other car people saw smoke billowing from the
Michnas' 55  and popped the hood to disconnect the battery afraid of a fire.  The Kellys said they knew the owners, called Tom Bruin on his cell so some one could alert Jerry.

Most of our group came along with the Michnas to check out what exactly was happening.  It seems an announcement was made that a black T-bird was on fire.  Oops!

Good thing the Smizinskis like their rootbeer! They were among members meeting at the Dog & Suds.  Ken looked at the engine and was able to start it.  But, the fire department had been called and they had to check all was well. Larry Kelly asked Jerry if he had a fire extinguisher and Jerry replied he did.  Larry then asked where it was and Jerry said it was in the trunk.  Larry advised he'd better get it out.  The young fireman laughed.  Actually, all the firemen were
young, but nevermind.

Well, we hope Jerry and Doreen and their T-bird made it home safely. And we hope everyone had just as memorable time on Memorial Day!

Karen Kelly

Tech Session- 2014

Thirty-four CTCC members and guests gathered at Bob Wenderski's on Saturday, April 26 for our annual Tech Session and Spring Dust-Off event.  Dick Murray from AACA reported that he sold his '49 Cadillac four door and was looking for another older model with four doors!  We drank coffee and munched rolls before our guest speaker, Jim Heidel, from Turtle Wax began his presentation.

A tire was brought in to show application of Turtle Wax Tire Shine. Itwas sprayed on and let dry for a few minutes before reapplication for a greater shine. Jim cautioned that it must be allowed to dry between coats or lines would show on the tire. Turtle Wax & Dry was discussed next. It should be wiped off with microfiber or terrycloth  and not applied to glass as it will leave a residue. He discussed carnuba paste wax and headlight lens restorer. Free samples of "Ice" car wash concentrate and interior wipes were given out.

After the guest speaker Ken Smizinski discussed Marvel Mystery Oil which is similar to Pyroil, providing top end lubrication but should not be mixed with Sea Foam.  Disc brake conversions were discussed.  They are not maintenance free and can lead to bearing problems and oxidation of pads.  If the speedometer is shaky, the cable can be lubricated with graphite.  Slick 50 or Marvel Mystery Oil can be used to keep the diaphragm softened in vacuum wipers.

Most of us went to lunch at the Tap House Grill in Highwood and afterward drove to Highland Park to view the Richard Sacks Car Collection.  Rich was an amiable host, describing in detail each of his twenty cars.  The Collection was eclectic, featuring postwar British, General Motors, and a Lincoln four door convertible.   Rich discussed the one Thunderbird that he had owned, a '57 "C" 'Bird with a 292 and 3- speed, which he felt was underpowered!

By Jim Wilson

Riverview Presentation and March Meeting

CTCC MARCH 2014 MEETING

Over fifty members and friends gathered early to enjoy lunch and fellowship at Fuddruckers before the start of the March meeting.

A short business meeting began at 2:15. The members approved the 2014 budget and elected three Directors- Joel Greenberg, Lloyd Schelling and Len Vinyard. We then heard about upcoming events and tours, including the CTCC "Spring Fling" weekend tour to Springfield, IL. being organized by Len and Mary Keil, an outing to White Fence Farm being arranged by Laura and Mike Cielenski and the Annual Tech-Session at the home of Bob and Sue Wenderski. Those who wished to win one of the raffle prizes donated by Madeline Zambon dropped their names into the appropriate bags.

The business meeting ended and we were treated to a presentation about Riverview Amusement Park by Ralph Lopez, who worked at Riverview from 1957 until its closing. He is currently a caretaker of its history. Following the presentation, Ralph answered questions and offered Riverview memorablilia for sale.

Article and Photos by Liz Werth.

Young Frankenstein

CLASSIC THUNDERBIRD CLUB of CHICAGOLAND

CLUB WINTER RESPITE -   YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN

Our Club had a great time going to the Drury Lane Theatre in Oakbrook on Sunday, January 26th. It was a cold overcast winter day, but thankfully, no snow. What else would a day in the Chicagoland area be at the end of January? To uplift our spirits, it was the perfect day to venture out and be with our fellow Thunderbird friends.

We were anxious to start out the late morning with a Bloody Mary, but regrettably, the bar wouldn't be open until noon — not to fear, after a little discussion with management, they opened the bar early for us and we all enjoyed the libations.

We were ready for the ensuing lunch and were seated in a private area of their dining room. The crystal chandeliers that abound throughout were as awesome as the sparkling white linen on the tables. Lunch was served starting out with a crispy garden salad, along with warm rolls and butter.

The entrees were a choice of Chicken Marsala, Roast Beef with Mushroom Gravy, and Salmon Filet with a Lernon Sauce. All were joined by herb roasted potatoes and mixed vegetables. Carrot cake was served for dessert, along with coffee.

After lunch we found our way into the theatre, which was only steps away. The theatre is a world class, proscenium style, sound-perfect auditorium that seats around 900 — and really not a bad seat in the house! The writer here, seated in the handicapped section that was the last row, had a great view of the stage!

YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN is a funny story and the re-imagining of the Frankenstein legend based on Mel Brooks' classic comedy masterpiece; it was hailed by the American Film Institute as one of the funniest movies of all time. The story follows bright young Dr. Frankenstein as he attempts to complete his grandfather's masterwork, and bring a corpse to life together with his hunchback, but endearing helper Igor, and his curvaceous lab assistant Inga. Dr. Frankenstein succeeds in creating a monster, but not without scary and quite often hilarious complications. This play had us all laughing for two hours straight. It was an enjoyable afternoon for all of us, and a nice break from the winter doldrums.

Those who attended were: Gail Hascek, Lorry and Karen Kelly, Len and Mary Keil, Pete and Marylu Kramer, Steve and Allison Kramer, Ed Levin and Rose Kovalenko, Jerry and Doreen Michna, Gary and Debbie Smithe, Ken and Kathy Smizinski, Len and Irene Vinyard, Bob and Sue Wenderski, Liz and Bill Werth, Tom and Alice Wolfe.

 - Pete and Marylu Kramer

June Outing- White Fence Farm

In honor of 60 on 66 our June Event will be held at the

White Fence Farm

1376 Joliet Road, Romeoville

Sunday, June 22nd - 1pm

Dust off the birds and fly on down for an afternoon of fun and fellowship. We will have an area in the parking lot to park our birds and then congregate for Lunch and a Brief Meeting.

Come enjoy their Famous Chicken and Corn Fritters (or anything else you might have a hankering for). Also, view all the antiques, the antique auto collection and petting zoo


Please R.S.V.P. to Mike or Laura Cielenski by June 14th.

2014 Spring Fling Activities

2014 "Spring Fling" in Springfield, Illinois 

 Hosted by the Classic Thunderbird Club of Chicagoland

IMPORTANT ITINERARY ANNOUNCEMENT 

Hello Everyone -
We have finalized the group events for our tour event to Springfield, Illinois. Attendance is your option, but we ask that if you do plan to attend, please complete the reservation form that follows, clip it and return it to us with your payment. We need all payments in advance and these reservation forms and payments need to be returned to us by April 15th (hey...you can mail your reservation form and tax returns on the same day!!!!)

                                                                                                   # Attending  Price Each  Total

Registration Fee    $10.00 per person                                            _____ x $10.00 ______
Friday 5/2/2014 Lincoln's New Salem $4.00 per person                    _____ x $4.00   _______
Saturday 5/3/2014 Lincoln's Tomb $4.00 per person                    _____ x $4.00   _______
Sunday 5/4/2014 Lincoln Library and Museum   $7.00 per person    _____ x $7.00    ___
(Optional Movie Sets at the museum $3.00 Add'l)                            _____ x $3.00   ___
Group Banquet-Saturday Night 5/3   $43.00 per person                    _____ x $43.00____
Please indicate your choice of entree (for you and spouse or co-traveler): New York Strip ___  Salmon__

Your Name: ___________________________________________
Spouse/Co-Traveler: ____________________________________
Address: _____________________________________________
Home Phone:__________________________________________
Cell Phone: ___________________________________________
Email Address:_________________________________________

Please return this form with your payment
(MADE PAYABLE to "Classic Thunderbird Club of Chicagoland ") to Len and Mary Keil,

In addition to these organized activities, there a number of other side-trips that you may find interesting, including the old Illinois State House museum ($4.00 pp), the Illinois Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Illinois Air Combat Museum, a visit to Cozy Dog, "inventor" of the corn dog, and much more! We have left of plenty of free time in the weekend schedule for you to explore on your own.

LADIES-  SPECIAL PRIZES WILL BE AWARDED FOR THE BEST  'DERBY' DAY HATS

Pizza Party and Meeting- 2/16/2014

Sunday, February 16 was a bright, sunny day, fortunately between snow storms.

As 42 CTCC members gathered at Aurelio's Pizza in Addison for our annual Pizza Party and Membership Meeting. Ken Smizinski urged everyone to take a seat as numerous varieties of pizza were placed on a serving table.

 At each place was a blank entry form for one of three door prizes provided by Madeline Zambon. Club members who had donated toiletries for the People's Food Pantry were instructed to write their name on the paper and place it in the bag beside the prize of their choice.

After four groups of hungry Thunderbirders had filled their plates, the membership meeting began. Copies of the 2014 CTCC Budget for 2014 prepared by Tom Bruin were passed out. Ken then explained the calendar of events planned for 2014.

 Drawings were held for the door prizes. Ron Pavlak took home a l/50th scale model of a yellow '55 Thunderbird, Bud Kryszak a Thunderbird watch, and Rose Kovalenko a 1:18 scale model of a red 2002 retro 'Bird complete with hard top.

 We finished up the last of the pizzas, pitchers of Pepsi, and Slice and said our goodbyes until the next meeting on March 16.

By Jim Wilson

Riverview Park

RIVERVIEW PARK

Do you remember Riverview Park? Or do you remember hearing about Riverview Park?
Does thinking about the Shoot-the-Chutes, the Bobs, the Pair-O-Chutes, Aladdin's Castle,the Double Whirl Ride, the Aero-Stat, the White Flyer Roller Coaster or the Flying Turns bring back fond memories - or raise your curiosity?

CTCC members and their friends and family are invited to a special event on Sunday, March 16th at 2 PM at: Fuddruckers, 436 East Golf Road, Schaumburg, to reminisce about Riverview. Ralph Lopez, a former manager of the 22 man crew on the Shoot-the-Chutes ride, who now devotes himself to keeping memories of Riverview alive, will give us a presentation about the Park and its history.

Dudes and Divas Dinner

CTCC DUDES AND DIVAS DINNER

The deep freeze of earlier in the week gave way to rain on January 10. Twenty-nine CTCCers navigated the parking lot lake to gather and enjoy a delightful Dudes and Divas Dinner at the Palm Court, We were seated at five tables in our usual semi-private room and received excellent service. The conversations and jokes were lively and the food was delicious. Thank you. Ken and Kathy, for once again planning a terrific winter outing.

Attendees included Lee & Gina Bakakos, Tom & Judy Bruin, Joe & Barb Esdale, Joel Greenberg & Annie Luginbill, Gail Hascek, Larry & Karen Kelly, Ed Levin & Rose Kovalenko. Pete & Marylu Kramer, Jerry & Doreen Michna, Dan Mrozek & Arlene Figlia, Doug & Soon Hee Rogers, Lloyd & Joan Schellin, Ken & Kathy Smizinski, Bob & Barb Sroka, Bill & Liz Werth,

- Liz Werth