Johnsburg Suafenund Spiel Parade

Suafen und Spiel Parade!

Let the parade begin! 

The weather was perfect on September 11 for the 44th Annual Johnsburg Suafenund Spiel Parade. People gathered at the home of Len & Mary Keil to enjoy a light breakfast of bagels, donuts, sweet roll and the infamous Joan Schellin almond cake. Ken and Kathy Smizinski encountered a problem with their Thunderbird and arrived in their Viper. Dan Mrozek drove his Mustang and Bill Balogh drove his Cadillac. Some of the participants removed their Thunderbird car tops before heading out to the Parade. Eleven cars lined up and were led by a police car out of the exit of the Keils' subdivision. While the cars were waiting for the Parade to start, the Parade watchers, including Ken, were finding a suitable spot to view everything. All of the cars carried Johnsburg Village officials and displayed magnetic signs. All cars were given mass quantities of candy to throw along the route. 

The Parade ended at a field where the cars lined up for display alongside a fleet of Corvettes. The Village treated the drivers to liquid refreshments. After meeting up with the Parade watchers, everyone went back to the Keils' for a delicious buffet lunch of beef sandwiches, sausage and peppers, mostaccioli, potato salad, chips and several desserts. Some watched football while others just relaxed. Taking part in this year's Parade (or watching the parade) were: Dan & Karen Anderson, Bill & Elaine Axelson, Lee & Gina Bakakos, Bill & Jane Balogh, Art Hahl, Len & Mary Keil, Ed Levin & Rose Kovalenko, Dean & Beth Molburg, Dan Mrozek & Arlene Figlia, Lloyd & Joan Schellin, Ken & Kathy Smizinski, Bill & Liz Werth, and Jim Wilson. A huge thank you to Len & Mary for coordinating and hosting this event for the fifth year! 

Downers Grove Cruise Night

Cruise Night in Downers Grove

It was a perfect evening for the Downers Grove Cruise Night in Downtown Downers Grove. The featured cars for the evening were "Thunderbirds". Members started arriving around 4pm at Curtiss Street which is the designated area for the featured cars. Though Curtiss Street is not closed down, parking spaces are saved as regular visitors leave. Thank you to those who helped block spaces for our clubs t-birds.  Our club had 16 thunderbirds participate, of which 13 were baby birds.   There were also 10 other thunderbirds participating, some from other Chicago area Thunderbird Clubs. Club members feasted on pizza from Angelo's as they were able to mingle on the sidewalk by their cars. During the evening, some club members walked around  town viewing the rest of the car show and or to shop in the stores.  At the end of the evening the Car Show Committee handed out a trophy for Best Featured Car.  Congratulations to Judy Bruin whose t-bird won. Way to go Judy!

Thank you to all the club members who came out that night to either show their t-bird or to just socialize. Those who attended the event were:  Rich & Pam Blanchard, Lee & Gina Bakakos, Tom & Judy Bruin, Mike & Laura Cielenski, Pete & Lisa Ekstrom, Joel Greenberg, Gail Hascek, Pete & Marilou Kramer, Steve Kramer, Len & Mary Keil, Larry & Karen Kelly, Bud & Cindy Kryszak, Mike Pavlak, Ron Pavlak, Ken Smizinski, Len & Irene Vinyard, Liz Werth  and Jim Wilson.   

Laura Cielenski

Historic Auto Attractions

Day Trip To Roscoe, IL

One classic Thunderbird and one retro Thunderbird were among the cars that gathered at the Historic Auto Attractions Museum in Roscoe, IL on Saturday, September 19. Nineteen people enjoyed going through the various rooms of the 36,000 sq. foot museum. It truly was a journey through time. In addition to over 75 historic autos, we saw extensive collections of Lincoln and John F. Kennedy artifacts and memorabilia. Some in our group named one area, the "evil room" as everything in it was from horrible times in history. This is a place that needs to be visited multiple times because there is just so much to see. When everyone had finished the walk-through, we caravanned to Sophia's Family Restaurant only a few miles away. We sat at one long table and were served by a very nice waitress. The food was plentiful and delicious. A big thank you to Joe and Barb Esdale for planning this interesting outing. Taking part were: Tom & Judy Bruin, Mike & Laura Cielenski, Joe & Barb Esdale, Gordon Gluff, Gail Hascek, Larry & Karen Kelly, Pete & Marylu Kramer, Jerry & Pat Peterson, Lloyd Schellin, Ken Smizinski and Bill & Liz Werth and Liz's brother, Herb Cook

Liz Werth.

Johnsburg Parade 2015

Suafen und Spiel Parade

The weather was perfect on September 13 for the 43rd Annual Johnsburg Suafen und Spiel Parade. Twenty-five people gathered at the lovely home of Len & Mary Keil to enjoy a light breakfast of bagels, donuts, sweet roll and a Joan Schellin yummy almond cake. There was plenty of time to mingle and remove car tops before heading out to the Parade. Thirteen cars lined up at the entrance of the subdivision to await a police blockade which facilitated easy exit on to a busy road. While the cars were waiting for the Parade to start, the Parade watchers were finding a suitable spot to view everything. Most of the cars carried Johnsburg Village officials and displayed magnetic signs. All cars were given mass quantities of candy to throw along the route. The Parade ended at a field where the cars lined up for display. The Village treated the drivers to liquid refreshments. After meeting up with the Parade watchers, everyone went back to the Keils' for a monstrous buffet lunch of beef sandwiches, sausage and peppers, mostaccioli, salad, chips and several desserts including delicate cookies and a pineapple upside down cake made by Lisa Ekstrom. Some watched football while others just relaxed. Taking part in this year's Parade were: Dan Anderson, Lee & Gina Bakakos, Tom & Judy Bruin, Pete & Lisa Ekstrom, Art Hahl, Bob & Helen Hoge, Len & Mary Keil, Dean & Beth Molburg (Keils' neighbors - driving a Chevy SSR), Dan Mrozek & Arlene Figlia, Lloyd & Joan Schellin, Ken & Kathy Smizinski, Len Vinyard, Bill & Liz Werth, Jim Wilson and Madeline Zambon. A huge thank you to Len & Mary for coordinating and hosting this event for the fourth year!

Liz Werth

Westmont- 2015

Westmont Cruise Night

It was a beautiful July evening for the Westmont Cruise Night. The theme for the night was Vettes vs.T-birds. Though we were out numbered by the Vettes, the T-birds drew the most crowds and attention.  This year Westmont closed off 3 blocks of Cass Avenue for the show and had two bands playing at each end. There were various vendors set up along the route selling anything from toy cars to popcorn and ice cream cones.  Westmont also allowed people to have drinks out in the street providing you had a wrist band and a plastic cup.  With our restaurant J Fleming across from where we parked, club members were able to get a drink and go out and mingle around their cars  At 6pm, we gathered on the patio of J Fleming Absolutely Delicious for dinner and more conversation.  Joining us for dinner was Tom & Judy Bruin, Mike & Laura Cielenski, Joe & Barb Easdale, Joel Greenberg, Gordon Gluff and Mary Ziemba, Gail Hascek , Raleigh Kean,  Larry & Karen Kelly, Ron Pavlak, Len & Irene Vinyard, Liz & Bill Werth and Jim & Jane Wilson.  Afterwards, everyone strolled up and down Cass Avenue to view all the  cars on display and then returned to converse by their cars.

For the cruise night there were 14 t-birds on display, 2 retro and 12 baby birds.  Thank you to all who came out for the Vettes vs. T-Bird cruise night.        

  ----- Laura Cielenski

Motor Row Tour

            MOTOR ROW

July 11, 2015: The morning was a bit warm and a little hazy but still a great summer day to take a walking tour of the Landmark Motor Row Historic District.  Eighteen CTCC members gathered at 2222 S. Michigan Avenue for a tour arranged by Annie Luginbill and Joel Greenberg through the Chicago Architecture Foundation.

While we waited for the tour to begin, Ken Smizinski recalled a trip to Motor Row in 1989 to a now bygone speedometer store.  He was told of a 1955 T-bird on the second floor.  The shop was perplexed at the time as to how to remove the Thunderbird.  Ken wondered what became of the 1955 baby, or, even he was told a true story.

Our docent from CAF, Dan Lempa, a car guy himself, (evidenced by his woody print shirt) actually researched and co-wrote the tour he was about to lead us on.  He explained that Chicagos Motor Row is recognized as an official Historic Landmark District so the beautiful and architecturally significant facades will remain for future generations.  Dan told us the first automobile dealership in the area, the Locomobile, was located at 14^th Street and Michigan Ave. and that over 100 automobile manufacturers and dealers established themselves on Michigan Ave. between 14^th and 24^th streets during the very early years of the 20^th century.

Our walk took us a little north and then a couple blocks south to hear the history of the buildings where Chicagoans once shopped for their autos.  Many significant buildings in a variety of architectural styles remain, including the Hudson building and the Marmon.  Their ornate facades definitely remind one of the movie palaces of the period.  Ford, Thomas Flyer, FIAT, Auburn and Cord, Cadillac and more all had dealerships designed by some of the most prominent architects of the time.  Holabird and Roche, Alfred Alschuler and Philip Maher found the automotive industry a lucrative source of commissions.

Most of the decorative building fronts we saw belied the massive structures behind as they were not only show rooms, but factories and repair shops, too.  And all had elevators to accommodate the vehicles.

Dan certainly knew his history!  Having such a knowledgeable guide and one with such enthusiasm for the subject made the hour and a half tour so much more fun.  He carried a binder to show pictures, advertisements and renderings of some of the vehicles found at Motor Row.

 

As we walked back to our cars at the conclusion of the tour, we all stopped in a building that is now a gallery to catch a glimpse of yesteryear at Dans suggestion.  Ken asked a couple people inside and found that there indeed there was a 1955 T-Bird and it was now housed in a back garage!

We then drove to Mannys Deli for an ample lunch.  The half sandwich could be almost enough for two.  However this reporter was really disappointed in the potato pancake. (Just an FYI)

Thank you Joel and Annie for a fun and informative morning.

The CAF website lists and describes other tours of Chicago and its neighborhoods.  Maybe something to fill your summer days!

Our members who participated:  Bob & Pam DeLucas, Joel Greenberg & Annie Luginbill, Larry & Karen Kelly, Lloyd & Joan Schellin, Ken Smizinski, Len Vinyard, Bob & Barb Sroka, Bob & Sue Wenderski, Bill & Liz Werth, and Jim & Jane Wilson.

Here is some Chicago Automotive Trivia;

First auto on Chicago streets: 1892

First auto dealership:  1899 Oldsmobile at 239 S. Wabash

First Ford dealership outside Detroit:  1444 S. Michigan Ave.

Americas First Automobile Race held in 1895 and started in Jackson Park.  It went to Evanston and back for a 52-mile round trip. It took just less than 8 hours and averaged 6.7 mph.

Karen Kelly

2015 Tech Session

2015 CTCC Tech Session  April 18, 2015

29 CTCC members gathered at the home and garage of Joe Esdale in Highland Park.  As we gathered and enjoyed coffee and rolls we admired four of Joes collector vehicles. Parked outside was a 60 Willys forward control V-6 pickup and a 48 Diamond T pickup, of which only 2,500 were made from 1041-49, with many of them going to the military for WWII. Inside the garage our host had a 57 Lincoln Mark II as well as his red 57 Thunderbird.

Ken began the Tech part of the session. Fifty cases of Accel Motor Oil with lead additive are in and ready to be picked up.  Ken discussed the headlight switch.  The dashboard lights work with a rheostat which becomes oxidized causing them not to work.  A fix for this involves using a thermal connector, available at NAPA, which makes the dash lights bright all the time.  There is a button on the bottom of the light switch;  press down, pull the shaft out, and remove the bezel, to hook up the connector.

Kens next topic was the bellcrank linkage which is crucial on cars with automatic transmissions.  The linkage is on the driver side of the engine toward the rear.  The bellcrank wears out and the transmission will not shift or shifts at the wrong RPM.  Later cars rely on vacuum pressure but with the early Birds it is all mechanical linkage.  There is a spring that wears out and causes the shaft to go up, which does not pull the linkage to the carburetor.  The spring is available from T-Bird parts suppliers, 9736 Throttle Spring F/M Kickdown 55/57.  Replacing this spring solves 90% of shifting problems with the bellcrank.  If the spring breaks, a temporary fix is a 3/8 bolt which can be used to keep the shaft from moving.  Wear causes play in the slot on the linkage.   The bellcrank needs resistance to operate.  The 55 bellcrank is available from parts suppliers, but the 56 and 57 is not.  This is the most important part of the shifting mechanism.

Proper adjustment of the gas pedal was the next topic. The clearance on a 55 or 56 should be 4 1/4 inch height while a 57 is  4 7/8  This is the proper travel for the pedal to move.  The kickdown rod is another adjustment,  there is a locking nut that can be turned out or in.  The automatic choke should be open, with the car at operating temperature.  Pull out the cotter pin and extend one revolution out or in. The transmission should shift at 26-28 mph.  There are metering screws to affect the idle in gear.  The car should idle at least 800 rpm. or the generator will not charge.  With a 6 volt electrical system, especially, idling  the car at 550-600 rpm. will discharge the battery.  The harmonic balancer can slide back from age and rub the motor mounts.  There is a specialized tool to remove the harmonic balancer.

Ken opined that aftermarket carburetors are not worth rebuilding and Holley will charge $600-800 to rebuild.  At the conclusion of Kens presentation we went outside for group photos and saw Joes 62 Jeep Wagoneer engine running in the bed of the Willys pickup

.

Heading down the basement we viewed Joes radio collection.  We heard Victor Borge on a professional reel to reel recorder and Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis in The Caddy on a vintage Bell and Howell recorder.  Joe played a recording of the San Fillipo pipe organ on speakers from the late 50s weighing 300 lbs. He had a 46 Wurlitzer juke box that bubbled when warmed up.  Telefunken U-47 microphones and a McIntosh amplifier were from the late 50s.

We next drove to Bacchus Nibbles in Lake Zurich for a lunch of Italian specialties and sandwiches.  Lunch was followed by a visit to Phil Derrigs  sign and car collection in Barrington.  Phil reproduces vintage looking gas station signs in his work barn.  He had a 40 Ford Woody  station wagon,  a 1990 Allard, two recent vintage Morgans, a 62 Jaguar Mark V, 94 and 95 V-12 Jaguars, a retro looking MG on a Pontiac 2000 chassis, a one-off 1903 Baker powered by a Briggs and Stratton engine, and a 90 Chrysler TC by Maserati of which only 1,500 were made from 1989-91.

 Jim Wilson   

Dudes & Divas- 2015

We had nice weather and a great turnout on January 16 for the annual Dudes 'n' Divas Dinner at Palm Court Restaurant in Arlington Heights. Thirty-six people enjoyed the ambiance of a "private" room. Tom Bruin supplied red wine for the tables. Those with January birthdays wore hats or crowns and the group sang to them. The Board gave each lady a pink rose which Pete and Marylu Kramer distributed at the end of the meal. Once again, this was a terrific way to shake off the post-holiday doldrums and get together with great friends. Thank you to Ken and Kathy Smizinski for planning it.

In attendance were: Lee & Gina Bakakos, Bill & Jane Balogh, Tom & Judy Bruin, Laura & Mike Cielenski, Joe & Barb Esdale, Joel Greenberg & Annie Luginbill, Gail Hascek, Larry & Karen Kelly, Len & Mary Keil, Pete & Marylu Kramer, Ed Levin & Rose Kovalenko, Dan Mrozek & Arlene Figlia, Debbie Powless, Doug & Soon Rogers, Lloyd & Joan Schellin, Ken & Kathy Smizinski, Bob & Barb Sroka, Liz & Bill Werth, Jim & Jane Wilson.

Cedarburg- 2014

Cedarburg Sunday

Taking advantage of the beautiful weather, nine people met at the Lake Forest Oasis at 9:30 AM on Sunday, Oct. 26. Four little 'birds and one new 'bird caravanned to Cedarburg, WI. After parking in a nice big lot adjacent to very clean public restrooms, we visited some shops while waiting for others to open. The town was pretty deserted and we had many of the shops to ourselves. Eventually the ladies rejoined the men and we all headed to Morton's Wisconsinn. Many of us ordered the famous Bloody Mary and some had the French Onion Soup. We all enjoyed our meals and several kept an eye on the disastrous Bear's game. Following lunch and the "group photo", we visited a few more shops and then headed for the cars and the trip home. Thank you to Len and Mary Keil for planning and leading this fun last-minute day-trip. Also participating were Sue Wenderski and her sister, Carla Dusa, Debbie Powless, Tom and Judy Bruin and Liz and Bill Werth.

Liz Werth

Crandall's and more

Sunday, October 12 was a beautiful day for a drive. Thirty-one members met at Crandall's to enjoy a delicious buffet. Bob Hoge, the day's planner, filled us in on the schedule for the day. After our brunch, we caravanned to Richmond. At the four-way stop in Hebron, a local policeman stopped all traffic so that we could glide through the intersection without difficulty. In Richmond, the group split up and explored the shops, ate ice cream and fudge or sat on the small town square. The caravan to the Eddie Cash Music Hall in Genoa City, WI started out with the help of Bob Sroka who stopped traffic so that we could all get through a stop sign. Once at the Music Hall, some availed themselves of the caramel popcorn samples and others ordered Spotted Cow beer or some wine. Once in the theater, we were treated to two hours of wonderfully nostalgic music and stories about how Eddie met many performers. During the intermission, several of us spoke with Mr. Cash about a possible CTCC outing to the Music Hall. It was a great day and we thank Bob and Helen Hoge for planning it. Taking part in all or some of the activities were: Bob & Helen Hoge, Ken & Kathy Smizinski, Joel Greenberg & Annie Luginbill, Gordon Gluff & Mary Ziemba, Lee & Gina Bakakos, Gail Hascek, Mike & Laura Cielenski, Bob & Barb Sroka, Doug Rogers, Tom Bruin, Pete & Lisa Ekstrom, new members Tom & Joanne Jacobi, Dan Mrozek & Arlene Figlia, Dan & Karen Anderson, Andy & Kathy Rominiecki, Len & Mary Keil and Bill & Liz Werth.

Liz Werth

Johnsburgs Sufen Und Spiel Parade- 2014

On a beautiful Sept. 7th Sunday morning, 11 T-Birds gathered at the Keil's for a breakfast of bagels & cream cheese, coffeecake & rolls, assorted breads, coffee and juice. The group, Dan Anderson, Tom & Judy Bruin, Joel Greenberg, Art Hahl, Bob & Helen Hoge, Len & Mary Keil, Pete Kramer, Jerry & Doreen Michna, Doug & Soon Rogers,  Ken & Kathy Smizinski, and Bill & Liz Werth, then departed for the Staging Area. The ladies took their chairs and, yes, plastic bags for candy, to a spot along the road to watch the parade.  Liz, with her trusty camera, took pictures of the fun.  All enjoyed the cars, tractors, fire department equipment, tumblers, bands, karate groups, scouts, and of course, local politicians as the parade passed by our group. After the parade, we gathered at the park for liquid refreshments and our cars were displayed for a mini car show--we were a big hit with everyone. The group went back to the Keil's for a late lunch of It. sausage sandwiches, sloppy joe's, hot dogs, baked beans, apple pie & ice cream. Johnsburg looks forward to the T-Birds being part of the parade again next year.   

Mary Keil  

3rd Civil Affairs Group Family Day

Family Day at Great Lakes, Il.

Sgt. Major Miller contacted Ken Smizinski about having CTCC participate in Family Day for Marines, sailors, and families of the Third Civil Affairs Group.  Several of us met at the Lake Forest Oasis and caravanned to 2205 Depot Drive in Great Lakes, Il. for the first anniversary of the Marine Group.

Six Thunderbirds and Bob and Barb Srokas  1937 LaSalle with a 350cu. Chevrolet engine made up the CTCC contingent.  Bill and Liz Werth brought their Blue 1955 TBird.  The five 1957 TBirds were Dan Mrozek with Dusk Rose, Len Vinyard with Black, Joel  Greenberg and Annie Luginbill Inca Gold, Lee Bakakos with Coral Sand, and my Colonial White car. Dan Anderson and Gina Bakakos came later in the day.

Fire apparatus and antique military vehicles were on display and there was a K9 demonstration.  The Marines provided ample food and beverages.  We lined up and filled our plates with grilled hamburgers and brats, cole slaw, potato salad, and various kinds of bagged chips.  Water and Gatorade were passed out by the servicemen.

Colonel  Lee, First Sgt. Hidalgo, and Staff Sgt. Loebe all chatted with us, expressed their appreciation, and are interested in seeing us again next year.    

Jim Wilson             

Westmont Cruise Night

Westmont Cruise Night- Vettes vs T-birds

Beautiful weather was enjoyed by 17 members at the Westmont Cruise Night on July 24.Pete and Marylu Kramer had arranged for us to sit at the front row of  patio tables at J. Flemings Absolutely Delicious restaurant, across the street from our row of T-Birds. Everyone had a nice meal.

The balance of the evening was spent walking the three blocks of Cass Avenue admiring the 183 cars in attendance, shopping at the vendor booths, listening to the live band and chatting with each other. The Theme for the night was Vettes vs T- Birds. While the T-Birds were way outnumbered by the Corvettes, in this totally biased reporters opinion, the T-Birds were the winners!

Experiencing the extraordinarily lovely evening were Pete and Marylu Kramer, Bob and Barb Sroka, Gordon Gluff and Mary Ziemba, Haig Garabedian, Ron Pavlak, Gail Hascek, Laura and Mike Cielenski, bob and Helen Hoge, Ed Levin and Rose Kovalenko and Bill and Liz Werth.

Liz Werth

White Fence Farm

White Fence Farm

It was a warm and bright sunny Sunday  June.  We all congregated in the parking lot of White Fence Farm  and then proceeded in to enjoy lunch.  As we ordered drinks and waited for our lunch to be served, Ken held a brief meeting. Ken went over the upcoming calendar of events for the club. Pete Kramer spoke about the upcoming cruise night in downtown Westmont on July 24th. While  Joel Greenberg and Annie gave an update on Bristol in July.  Annie also handed out items for the ladies in the club who were going to be attending the Faire. Pete Eckstrom spoke about the upcoming fall tour to East Troy and said he and Lisa were going back up in July to plan the details. Ken ended the meeting with a drawing for a $50 gift certificate for NPD.  The winner of the drawing was Laura Cielenski.

Lunch was served and all enjoyed either chicken, shrimp, steak and much more.  Of course there always is excitement for the club and sometimes things don't run as smoothly as you would like especially when it came to the separate checks. Sorry to all those who attended for the mishap. But I think everyone still enjoyed the afternoon.  Some club members stayed on to view the antiques and classic cars in the restaurant museum area , as others either visited the petting zoo or talked around their cars and then went home.

We had 34 in attendance and we Thank all those who came.  Ken & Kathy Smizinski, Len & Mary Keil, Len & Irene Vinyard, Doug & Soon Hee Rogers, Pete & Marilou Kramer, Joe & Sandy Kraatz, Kami Woody, Pete & Lisa Eckstrom, Joel Greenberg & Annie Luginbill, Larry & Karen Kelly, Dan Mrozek & Arlene Figlia, Bob & Barbara Sroka, Jim & Jane Wilson, Bud & Cindy Kryszak , Haig Garabedian, Ron Pavlak, Gordon Gluff & Mary Ziemba, Gail Hascek and Mike & Laura Cielenski.

By Laura Cielenski

Bristol Renaissance Faire

Hear Ye, Hear Ye!  My Lords and Ladies  The Queen is Coming

An event where you adorn yourself with your Sundays best.  A once in a lifetime experience, July 19^th, we all enjoyed the pomp and circumstance of her arrival at the Bristol Renaissance Faire  Those attending were:  Tom & Judy Bruin, Bill & Liz Werth, Jim & Jane Wilson, Bob & Barbara Sroka, Len & Mary Keil, Bob & Helen Hoge (A HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO HELEN), Lloyd & Joan Schellin, Joel Greenberg & Annie Luginbill, and as late arrival were Len & Irene Vinyard with family.

As we entered the gates, 16^th century Old England awaits.  Step back in time to meet the Queen and here court as they travel to Bristol to escape the summer heat of London.  We were able to view her arrival as the parade past by.  A full compliment of servants, entertainers, ladies in waiting, Royal Guard and Beefeaters formed the procession.  Behind these were the soothsayers, jesters, witches and peasants.

All were able to eat, drink, and make merry while roaming amongst, jousting knights, and saucy wenches.  Entertainment included, knife throwing, archery, whip demonstrations, female sword fighting, Bagpipes with Scottish dancers as well as many games and stages of the improv troops performances.  There were also Shoppes exhibiting all kinds of hand-crafted items, costumes, glass, pottery, Jewelry and much more.

With all this frolicking and cavorting it leaves one in need of food and drink.  A bountiful supply of refreshments from the giant turkey legs to ice-cold sassafras, beers and ales were always just a step away.  You could rest around the Maypole where the Steampunk costume contest showed us all an imaginative array of apparel.

We finished our day by viewing a standing room only arena while watching the Knights joust to the final victor becoming the Grand Knight.

Thank you to all that attended, and a special thanks to Joel and Annie for arranging an excursion that we will all remember.  HUZZAH!!!

Barbara Sroka

Orland Park Crossing Show

Orland Park Crossing Display

 

Saturday, June 14, was a bright, sunny 48 degree morning ideal for a drive in a Thunderbird.  Hearing horror stories about traffic tie-ups due to Kennedy Expressway construction I left home at 6:35 AM and was the first to arrive at Orland Park Crossing.   I saw the parking lot blocked off with barricades and Joel Greenberg came soon afterward.  When all had arrived we had 13 members participating in the event.  Haig Garabedian came from LaGrange with a white 1956 TBird.  Ken Smizinski,  Len Vinyard, Larry and Karen Kelly,  Doug Rogers,  Lee Bakakos,  Ed Levin and Rose Kovalenko, Pete Kramer drove Thunderbirds.  Tom Bruin came in a Shelby Mustang and Bob and Barbara Sroka in their 1937 LaSalle. Also, 2 non club members came in their 2 seat Thunderbirds

 

Ken Smizinski has a Midtronics battery, starting, and charging tester.  Both Len Keil and Vinyard tested OK.  The tape for my car read Replace Battery.  Better to know now!

The Club provided a 4 foot long submarine sandwich, chips, and pop for lunch.  Ken kept slicing  the sub until we all had plenty to eat.

 

We were visited by several General Motors vehicles during the day as there was a Pontiac show at the bank across 143^rd  St .  Phil Bianco Jr. parked his 100% stock restored 1956 Chevy BelAir hard top with a Sierra Gold and Adobe Beige paint scheme and reminisced with club members about the old days.  A radically customized orange early 50s Chevy (The only way one could tell was the roof line) parked with the TBirds for a time.

A 1969 Malibu and stray Pontiacs cruised through the lot.

 

The shopping center people were most appreciative and want our Club to do more displays.  I steered clear of LaGrange Rd. and I 55 upon leaving and encountered no serious traffic on I 355.

                                                                                    

 By Jim Wilson 

Bristol Renaissance Faire

BRISTOL RENAISSANCE FAIRE- JULY 19, 2014

Get ready for something different this year:...
STEAMPUNK WEEKEND at Bristol!

What is Steampunk? Per the internet: "Steampunk is a sub-genre of science fiction
that portrays a world where steam is king: without higher technologies to replace it, steam
is the dominant source of power, leading to the creation of strange, new technologies which
dominate an entirely new society. It is wildly cool, featuring tons of intriguing little things that
reshape the world entirely. Even style is different in this steam-oriented world featuring
steam-powered machinery, especially in a setting inspired by industrialized Western
civilization during the 19th century. Books are often set in an alternative history of the 19th
century's British Victorian era or American 'Wild West', a post-apocalyptic future in which
steam power has regained mainstream use, or a fantasy world that employs steam power. It
features anachronistic technologies or retro­ futuristic inventions as people in the 19th
century might have envisioned. Technology may include fictional machines like those in the
works of H. G. Wells and Jules Verne. Steampunk may also incorporate elements
from fantasy, horror, historical fiction, alternate history, or other types of speculative fiction,
making it a hybrid genre. The term Steampunk was first used in 1987 (but now retroactively
refers to many works of fiction created as early as the 1950s). It also refers to the artistic
styles, clothing fashions, or subcultures that have developed from the aesthetics of
Steampunk fiction, Victorian-era fiction, art nouveau design, and films from the mid-20th
century."

In other words, the costumes will have to be seen to be believed, so plan to come on July
19th! Tickets are $15 and are good for the entire season. If you can't come on the 19th but
want to experience Bristol between its opening on July 5th and its closing on Labor Day,
parking is $5 (it's free for us on the 19th -- and we get VIP Parking in front).

Please join us for what promises to be a VERY interesting day at Bristol! We'll leave the Lake
Forest Oasis at 9 AM to meet folks from the North/Northwest at the gas station on Frontage
Road at 9:20 (we'd like to catch Bristol's 'pre-­show show' starting at 9:45 AM).

Joel Greenberg and Annie Luginbill
Phone: 773-348-3233/e-mail: jlgrnbrg@sbcglobal.net

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

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.