Monday Sept 20, 2021
GRIOT’S CORPORATE HQ &
FLAGSHIP RETAIL STORE
3333 SOUTH 38TH ST
TACOMA, WA 98409
&
GRIOT'S MOTORS
3625 S WARNER ST
TACOMA, WA 98409
Followed by Lunch at
Harvest Buffet
3121 S 38TH ST,
TACOMA, WA 98409
We met at Griots Retail Store at 11:00am for a tour and demonstration of their products and techniques. We got to see what went into making the Griot's Garage Corporate Headquarters and Flagship Retail Store come to life and got a glimpse into the property's past, to see how it was restored and built to become a car lover's destination.
We were given a tour of owner Richard Griot’s private collection of cars that are stored at this location and Richard talked about each car.
When we were done there we traveled a short distance to the New Griots Motors. At Griot’s Motors, they don’t just have collectible and classic cars for sale. We find unique automobiles with undeniable potential, then restore them past their original specs — so nothing gets between you, the car, and the moment.
The services available at this NEW location are:
¨ CLASSIC CAR RESTORATION SHOP
¨ VINTAGE AND CLASSIC CARS FOR SALE
¨ CLASSIC AND COLLECTOR CAR CONSIGNMENT
¨ COLLECTIBLE AND CLASSIC CARS DEALER
¨ CAR DETAILING — TACOMA
¨ CLIMATE CONTROLLED STORAGE
Here they have two state of art paint booths, lifts, and fabrication equipment. For a working shop it was scary, clean. This overview of the shop was done by one of the Griot sons. From there we were led into another heated warehouse area, that house some of Griot's cars, but is also where they store customer cars for a monthly fee. They also have another building - unheated - for additional storage of customer cars at a lower monthly cost. We were let loose to look at all the cars in this area before heading out to lunch.
When we were done there, we traveled a short distance to the Harvest Buffet for all you can eat Asian Buffet. They had everything from a fresh Japanese sushi bar & Mongolian Grill, to authentic regional cuisines from China.
We had to wear a mask and disposable gloves (provided) when getting our food. (Covid Requirement)
Thanks to member Rick Len and Pres Mike Hall for getting this set-up at the last minute to replace the Nardoland event. Hopefully we will get to Nardoland next year.
We had a good turn-out for this event, around 28 people. New Members Richard Mazza & Karen Cota joined for their first outing with the club and were driving nice red '57, hopefully they will join us again. Members we hadn't seen for a long time included Bob and Andrea Armanino (past members who rejoined in last year or so), It was nice to see Morris & Gayle Krause, Jerry & Becky Cline, Craig & Cathy Landon, Jean Cournoyer & her son, and Bill Fisher. And there was Van Victor driving his newly painted gray ’57 with the top off - what’s gotten into Van? Maybe they will join us for more events in the future.
From portland was Dave VanWinkle and Dennis Leedom along with friends Randy and John.
We were given a tour of owner Richard Griot’s private collection of cars that are stored at this location and Richard talked about each car.
When we were done there we traveled a short distance to the New Griots Motors. At Griot’s Motors, they don’t just have collectible and classic cars for sale. We find unique automobiles with undeniable potential, then restore them past their original specs — so nothing gets between you, the car, and the moment.
The services available at this NEW location are:
¨ CLASSIC CAR RESTORATION SHOP
¨ VINTAGE AND CLASSIC CARS FOR SALE
¨ CLASSIC AND COLLECTOR CAR CONSIGNMENT
¨ COLLECTIBLE AND CLASSIC CARS DEALER
¨ CAR DETAILING — TACOMA
¨ CLIMATE CONTROLLED STORAGE
Here they have two state of art paint booths, lifts, and fabrication equipment. For a working shop it was scary, clean. This overview of the shop was done by one of the Griot sons. From there we were led into another heated warehouse area, that house some of Griot's cars, but is also where they store customer cars for a monthly fee. They also have another building - unheated - for additional storage of customer cars at a lower monthly cost. We were let loose to look at all the cars in this area before heading out to lunch.
When we were done there, we traveled a short distance to the Harvest Buffet for all you can eat Asian Buffet. They had everything from a fresh Japanese sushi bar & Mongolian Grill, to authentic regional cuisines from China.
We had to wear a mask and disposable gloves (provided) when getting our food. (Covid Requirement)
Thanks to member Rick Len and Pres Mike Hall for getting this set-up at the last minute to replace the Nardoland event. Hopefully we will get to Nardoland next year.
We had a good turn-out for this event, around 28 people. New Members Richard Mazza & Karen Cota joined for their first outing with the club and were driving nice red '57, hopefully they will join us again. Members we hadn't seen for a long time included Bob and Andrea Armanino (past members who rejoined in last year or so), It was nice to see Morris & Gayle Krause, Jerry & Becky Cline, Craig & Cathy Landon, Jean Cournoyer & her son, and Bill Fisher. And there was Van Victor driving his newly painted gray ’57 with the top off - what’s gotten into Van? Maybe they will join us for more events in the future.
From portland was Dave VanWinkle and Dennis Leedom along with friends Randy and John.
OCTC BBQ and a Movie
Saturday August 28, 2021
at
Ron & Beth Bunn House
23433 SE 285th St.
Maple Valley WA 98038
Ron and Beth Bunn invited the OCTC to their home in Maple Valley for the August event -
“BBQ and a Movie Matinee”.
It was a great sunny day and as we arrived Ron directed us to park on the lawn in his back yard. Those attending were Frank & Cathy Stubbs, Kyle Stubbs, Jim & Joanne Hendry, Bruce Eardley, Dan & Fran Del Duca.
Ron and Beth supplied the main course “Pulled Pork BBQ” and buns to make sandwiches as well as BBQ Baked Beans and condiments and a variety of non-alcoholic drinks. The rest of us were requested to bring a side dish, salad, or desert to share. We had a green salad, chunks of fruit - pineapple, watermelon, grapes, and some great chocolate cupcakes. I’m sure there was other things but my mind went blank after the chocolate cupcakes.
There was a variety of “award winning” movie choices to be selected by those attending, we selected “Ford vs Ferrari”. About Carroll Shelby and Ken Miles battling corporate interference as they build the “Ford GT” to compete against Enzo Ferrari at the 24 Hours of Lemans in France in 1966.
We all had a good time visiting with each other and enjoyed the BBQ and all the food served as well as the movie. Thanks to Ron and Beth for their hospitality and sharing their home and Ron’s shop with us. Good job guys it was a lot of fun.
Bruce Eardley
“BBQ and a Movie Matinee”.
It was a great sunny day and as we arrived Ron directed us to park on the lawn in his back yard. Those attending were Frank & Cathy Stubbs, Kyle Stubbs, Jim & Joanne Hendry, Bruce Eardley, Dan & Fran Del Duca.
Ron and Beth supplied the main course “Pulled Pork BBQ” and buns to make sandwiches as well as BBQ Baked Beans and condiments and a variety of non-alcoholic drinks. The rest of us were requested to bring a side dish, salad, or desert to share. We had a green salad, chunks of fruit - pineapple, watermelon, grapes, and some great chocolate cupcakes. I’m sure there was other things but my mind went blank after the chocolate cupcakes.
There was a variety of “award winning” movie choices to be selected by those attending, we selected “Ford vs Ferrari”. About Carroll Shelby and Ken Miles battling corporate interference as they build the “Ford GT” to compete against Enzo Ferrari at the 24 Hours of Lemans in France in 1966.
We all had a good time visiting with each other and enjoyed the BBQ and all the food served as well as the movie. Thanks to Ron and Beth for their hospitality and sharing their home and Ron’s shop with us. Good job guys it was a lot of fun.
Bruce Eardley
SPECIAL CLUB EVENT August 2021
OCTC & Solid Axle Corvette Club
Driving Tour of Mt.Ranier
Wednesday August 18, 2021
The Solid Axle Corvette Club planned on doing a day tour around Mt Rainer on Wednesday Aug 18th and invited the Olympic Classic Thunderbird Club to join them.
We have done joint tours with them in the past and we always had a great time.
We met at Gator's restaurant in Kent for breakfast at 8:00 AM, we left Gators restaurant at 9:00 AM to begin our tour around Mt. Rainer. We were sure our gas tanks were full and our “belly” tanks were full. We headed South on 167 to Sumner, Hwy 410 east to Hwy 162 south to Orting. From there it was scenic back roads to Kapowsin, to Eatonville, to Alder - Hwy 7 to Elbe to Hwy 706 to the entrance to Mt. Rainer Park. We then drove through the park enjoying the scenery. Bruce came close to introducing a large dear to a Thunderbird, fortunately they missed. Everyone went their separate ways to lunch and home. Thank you to Jerry Little for putting this adventure together, always a fun time when we get together.
Bruce Eardley
We have done joint tours with them in the past and we always had a great time.
We met at Gator's restaurant in Kent for breakfast at 8:00 AM, we left Gators restaurant at 9:00 AM to begin our tour around Mt. Rainer. We were sure our gas tanks were full and our “belly” tanks were full. We headed South on 167 to Sumner, Hwy 410 east to Hwy 162 south to Orting. From there it was scenic back roads to Kapowsin, to Eatonville, to Alder - Hwy 7 to Elbe to Hwy 706 to the entrance to Mt. Rainer Park. We then drove through the park enjoying the scenery. Bruce came close to introducing a large dear to a Thunderbird, fortunately they missed. Everyone went their separate ways to lunch and home. Thank you to Jerry Little for putting this adventure together, always a fun time when we get together.
Bruce Eardley
41st Annual All Thunderbird Picnic
at
Nancy Burress House
17088 Lake View Blvd Mt. Vernon WA 98274
Sunday, July 11, 2021 Time: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
July 11 at 11AM, six lovely baby thunderbirds and a good looking Fairlane were lined up in front of my house, slowing traffic and wowing my neighbors. Coincidentally, they were all 1956’s except the Fairlane and mine. We waited around for a half hour, admiring the engine in Clark’s car and discussing the drive. The day was a lovely low 70’s day. We had one member who had a family obligation to leave early for so we proceeding with a lovely potluck at 11:30. A little after 12, there were six more baby birds that pulled up and made the outing one of the most members had attended this year. The lovely weather and the release of the Covid restrictions had something to do with that for sure.
Some members cooled inside in the dining room, some in the living room and some on the deck and couple got some of the sun on the dock. We all had a great gathering with a lot of conversation since we have had so little time to get together this year.
The food provided by Nancy was a ziti pasta dish and a chocolate cheesecake. Many delicious dishes were brought by our members, such as salmon, potato salad, macaroni salad, little pigs in a blanket (especially delicious), fruit bowls, deviled eggs, brownies, M&M’s, corn and pepper salad are among the many.
Mike Hall called us all together for a short meeting after our dinner hour—BRUCE YOU SHOULD ASK HIM FOR A SUMMARY OF HIS TOPICS PLEASE.
I was thanked for hosting the party and it was suggested that the location be an annual one for this event.
Some members cooled inside in the dining room, some in the living room and some on the deck and couple got some of the sun on the dock. We all had a great gathering with a lot of conversation since we have had so little time to get together this year.
The food provided by Nancy was a ziti pasta dish and a chocolate cheesecake. Many delicious dishes were brought by our members, such as salmon, potato salad, macaroni salad, little pigs in a blanket (especially delicious), fruit bowls, deviled eggs, brownies, M&M’s, corn and pepper salad are among the many.
Mike Hall called us all together for a short meeting after our dinner hour—BRUCE YOU SHOULD ASK HIM FOR A SUMMARY OF HIS TOPICS PLEASE.
I was thanked for hosting the party and it was suggested that the location be an annual one for this event.
Our June OCTC event was a visit to
Pacific Northwest Naval Air Museum
Located in downtown Oak Harbor
on beautiful Whidbey Island, Washington.
Saturday June 19, 2021
June 19th 17 club members gathered to visit the PBY Museum in downtown Oak Harbor, on beautiful Whidbey Island Washington.
Those that met at Starbucks in Renton were Bruce Eardley and his friend Buddy Bechtold, Michael Hall, and Van & Lynn Victor.
Those that met at Smokey Point Rest Area Northbound I5 in Arlington were Clarke & Wilma Hamm, Janice Westfall and her friend John, and Jon Hanson and Chuck and Geri Kahler,
From there continued North on I5 to WA 20 to cross Deception Pass Bridge to Oak Harbor. We met at the Riverside Cafe restaurant for lunch and we joined Mel and Linda Lang, Ron Karr and Barb Collins, and Mike Ball.
After a good lunch and visit with everyone we headed for the:
Pacific Northwest Naval Air Museum
Located just a short distance from the restaurant in downtown Oak Harbor. A visit to the museum is step back in history to see how a small island town was caught up in the turmoil of WWII and the building of a Naval Air Station that brought the beloved PBY Catalina amphibious aircraft to its shores. The Museum was loaded with Naval artifacts and history of the Oak Harbor area. The Museum has a PBY on display that you can go in and look around. As large as the plane looks, it is very small inside. It was a god time and the weather was perfect.
Thank you for coming and making this event successful.
Mel & Linda Lang
Those that met at Starbucks in Renton were Bruce Eardley and his friend Buddy Bechtold, Michael Hall, and Van & Lynn Victor.
Those that met at Smokey Point Rest Area Northbound I5 in Arlington were Clarke & Wilma Hamm, Janice Westfall and her friend John, and Jon Hanson and Chuck and Geri Kahler,
From there continued North on I5 to WA 20 to cross Deception Pass Bridge to Oak Harbor. We met at the Riverside Cafe restaurant for lunch and we joined Mel and Linda Lang, Ron Karr and Barb Collins, and Mike Ball.
After a good lunch and visit with everyone we headed for the:
Pacific Northwest Naval Air Museum
Located just a short distance from the restaurant in downtown Oak Harbor. A visit to the museum is step back in history to see how a small island town was caught up in the turmoil of WWII and the building of a Naval Air Station that brought the beloved PBY Catalina amphibious aircraft to its shores. The Museum was loaded with Naval artifacts and history of the Oak Harbor area. The Museum has a PBY on display that you can go in and look around. As large as the plane looks, it is very small inside. It was a god time and the weather was perfect.
Thank you for coming and making this event successful.
Mel & Linda Lang
OCTC
CRUISE TO WALLY’S
BUCKLEY WA
Sunday, April 25,2021
Time: 11:30 AM
The April event to John McKay’s collection was, unfortunately, cancelled. Pierce County has returned to Phase 2, and indoor activities can no longer be held. In it’s place we offered a new event:
April 25th – cruise to Wally’s Drive-in in Buckley for lunch
We met at one of our usual meeting site, the Starbuck’s in Renton (601 S Grady Way) at 11:30am and left the parking lot at 11:45am.
Attending at Starbucks were Bruce Eardley (Vickie Willson was sick and stayed home), Mike & Bonnie Hall, Frank & Cathy Stubbs, Kyle Stubbs, and new member Rick Len & his friend Suzanne.
From there we took the backroads through Maple Valley, Black Diamond, Krain, and finally return to Hwy 410 and to Wally’s for lunch at around 1:00pm. There is no indoor seating at the restaurant, but we were able to eat outdoors in their covered area. The staff at Wally’s is excited to have there.
Those joining us at Wally’s were Chuck & Julie Birch, Doug & Patty Wanamaker, and Donna Wisenburg and her friend Carolyn.
It was great to get out of the house and get together with friends we haven’t seen in a while. The food at Wally’s is always good and they now have Ribs on Saturdays and Sundays, a few of our group had the ribs and said they were really good.
President Mike Hall had a brief meeting and thanked everyone for coming out on such a gloomy and rainy day. We talked about some upcoming events and happenings.
Bruce took a moment to announce that he wants to retire from his duties as Newsletter Editor, Web Master, and Membership Chair. He has been doing these duties for over 10 years and thinks its time for someone else to step-up.
April 25th – cruise to Wally’s Drive-in in Buckley for lunch
We met at one of our usual meeting site, the Starbuck’s in Renton (601 S Grady Way) at 11:30am and left the parking lot at 11:45am.
Attending at Starbucks were Bruce Eardley (Vickie Willson was sick and stayed home), Mike & Bonnie Hall, Frank & Cathy Stubbs, Kyle Stubbs, and new member Rick Len & his friend Suzanne.
From there we took the backroads through Maple Valley, Black Diamond, Krain, and finally return to Hwy 410 and to Wally’s for lunch at around 1:00pm. There is no indoor seating at the restaurant, but we were able to eat outdoors in their covered area. The staff at Wally’s is excited to have there.
Those joining us at Wally’s were Chuck & Julie Birch, Doug & Patty Wanamaker, and Donna Wisenburg and her friend Carolyn.
It was great to get out of the house and get together with friends we haven’t seen in a while. The food at Wally’s is always good and they now have Ribs on Saturdays and Sundays, a few of our group had the ribs and said they were really good.
President Mike Hall had a brief meeting and thanked everyone for coming out on such a gloomy and rainy day. We talked about some upcoming events and happenings.
Bruce took a moment to announce that he wants to retire from his duties as Newsletter Editor, Web Master, and Membership Chair. He has been doing these duties for over 10 years and thinks its time for someone else to step-up.
TELEPHONE MUSEUM & DERBY RESTAURANT
DATE: Sunday February 16, 2020
Place: 7000 East Marginal Way South
Seattle WA 98108
Our February event to the Connection Museum and then lunch at the Derby was enjoyed by all. There were twenty four of us: Bruce and Vickie, Les & Cynthia Willman, Dan & Fran Del Duca, Lynn & Van, Ron Karr & Barb Collins, Mike & Bonnie Hall, Janice Westfall, Phillip Westfall and John Paul Nelson, Nancy Burress drove down from Big Lake in her other car, Ashley & Leigh Ann Thomas. We welcomed Mike Walter a new member, thanks for joining us Mike.
Since we were at the Museum 10 years ago it has changed a great deal. The docents today were young people, who have stepped up to fill the void of the old time volunteers’ retirements.
The museum features working Panel and Crossbar electromechanical central-office switches. The Connections Museum also has working Step-by-Step and Crossbar PBX equipment as well as antique telephones, switchboards, outside plant displays, including poles, cables, splicing equipment, tools, and other related communications equipment and machines. The Connections Museum also features a cataloged telecommunications reference library, useful for researchers.
Lunch at the Derby was great, I didn’t hear a complaint other than I can’t eat it all. Service was great. Dan said he had the best Bloody Mary, I had the BAD-ASS B.L.T. Oh good.
Derby is located inside The Shop - a state of the art facility for car and motorcycle lovers. Chef Nick prepares classic comfort foods with the best meats and produce that Washington has to offer. Northwest beers and bourbon, with a large selection of scotch. Open for lunch, dinner, weekend brunch and happy hour (daily 3pm-6pm) - seven days a week in SoDo.
We then toured The Shop which is a destination facility for car and motorcycle enthusiasts where visitors can indulge their passion at whatever level they’re interested in. The warehouse is full of cars, high end all of them.
So I highly recommend the Derby for Lunch and Dinner. We enjoyed hosting the event
Jon and Susan
Since we were at the Museum 10 years ago it has changed a great deal. The docents today were young people, who have stepped up to fill the void of the old time volunteers’ retirements.
The museum features working Panel and Crossbar electromechanical central-office switches. The Connections Museum also has working Step-by-Step and Crossbar PBX equipment as well as antique telephones, switchboards, outside plant displays, including poles, cables, splicing equipment, tools, and other related communications equipment and machines. The Connections Museum also features a cataloged telecommunications reference library, useful for researchers.
Lunch at the Derby was great, I didn’t hear a complaint other than I can’t eat it all. Service was great. Dan said he had the best Bloody Mary, I had the BAD-ASS B.L.T. Oh good.
Derby is located inside The Shop - a state of the art facility for car and motorcycle lovers. Chef Nick prepares classic comfort foods with the best meats and produce that Washington has to offer. Northwest beers and bourbon, with a large selection of scotch. Open for lunch, dinner, weekend brunch and happy hour (daily 3pm-6pm) - seven days a week in SoDo.
We then toured The Shop which is a destination facility for car and motorcycle enthusiasts where visitors can indulge their passion at whatever level they’re interested in. The warehouse is full of cars, high end all of them.
So I highly recommend the Derby for Lunch and Dinner. We enjoyed hosting the event
Jon and Susan
BUSINESS MEETING and ELECTION of 2020 OFFICERS
Date: Sunday, January 26, 2020
Place: Johnny’s at Fife Restaurant
Agenda: Election of officers and any other club business
Our January meeting was smaller in size than normal, but equally enjoyable with lots of great discussions. Several of our members were either out of town or ill, which gave us a cozier group of 29 around the tables.
The meal, as usual, was great and the service always pleasant and efficient. Cathy shared lots of discussion with the group of her dealings with CTCI, and encouraged everyone to contact CTCI if you have any concerns about the events that are taking place.
Elections were held and I’m excited about the officers for the next two years. Read all the details in the Secretary’s minutes.
President:
Michael Hall
Vice President:
Van Victor
Secretary:
Nancy Burress
Treasurer:
Fran Del Duca
Trustees:
Mel Lang
Vickie Willson
Kyle Stubbs
Clarke Hamm
My sincere thanks to all of the officers and trustees who I worked with during the last two years. It has truly been educational and enjoyable, and their support and guidance have been greatly appreciated. I wish Michael all the best, and hope his term is equally fun.
Here’s to a short winter, and lots of great T-bird travels this summer.
Vickie
The meal, as usual, was great and the service always pleasant and efficient. Cathy shared lots of discussion with the group of her dealings with CTCI, and encouraged everyone to contact CTCI if you have any concerns about the events that are taking place.
Elections were held and I’m excited about the officers for the next two years. Read all the details in the Secretary’s minutes.
President:
Michael Hall
Vice President:
Van Victor
Secretary:
Nancy Burress
Treasurer:
Fran Del Duca
Trustees:
Mel Lang
Vickie Willson
Kyle Stubbs
Clarke Hamm
My sincere thanks to all of the officers and trustees who I worked with during the last two years. It has truly been educational and enjoyable, and their support and guidance have been greatly appreciated. I wish Michael all the best, and hope his term is equally fun.
Here’s to a short winter, and lots of great T-bird travels this summer.
Vickie
Olympic Classic Thunderbird Club
Annual Christmas Party
Sunday December 7, 2019
Johnny’s at Fife
OUR GROUP GETS GIDDY OVER GIFTS GALORE
'Tis the season to be jolly... and on Saturday afternoon, December 7, a jolly group of Olympic T'birders gathered at Johnnie's Restaurant in Fife for our annual Christmas party. Lynn and I had the pleasure of co-hosting this event with Michael and Bonnie Hall who do such a great job with the planning and preparations for this event.
During a social hour of greetings and catching up, it was nice to visit with folks we haven't seen for awhile, including Carmen Allstrom, Mike and Cathie Ball from Oak Harbor, Barry and Linda Birch from Pt. Townsend, and Jerry and Becky Cline from across the Cascades in Chelan. Both Barry and Jerry have been going through some prolonged medical issues, so it was nice to see them looking well, and to hear from them that they're feeling better. Best wishes for their extended good health.
The food, the service, and the experience at Johnnie's was a treat, with the staff doing their best to accommodate our needs. Jon Hanson and I have a running joke at our club events because it seems no matter the restaurant, either he or I tend to be the last one served. Jon got the honor this time, finally getting his order just as I was finishing my meal. Likely, I'll be the one waiting next time.
In the spirit of the season, Santa donated for our party a Christmas wreath with it's exterior covered completely in thumb tacks. The person among us who would come closest to guessing how many tacks were on the wreath would win a $50 Costco gift card. Of all the guesses, Bonnie Hall's was the one that came the closest. Following that, a drawing was held for the wreath itself, and Wilma Hamm became its lucky winner. Congratulations to Bonnie and Wilma.
Our high-spirited gift exchange, filled with joy, frustration, heartache, and laughter lived up to its tradition. It was great to see the number of fun and entertaining gifts that people brought. It seems President Vickie had a knack for picking out gifts that were highly sought after because every time she unwrapped one, it was quickly “stolen” away. Among the most interesting exchanges happened between Betty Muir and Dan DelDuca. Betty had just “stolen” this absolutely adorable stuffed reindeer from Bonnie, and Betty said it would make just a perfect gift for her grand-daughter. Soon after, it was Dan's turn to either pick an unwrapped gift from the table... or “steal” a gift from someone else. Now we all know Dan is such a nice guy that there's no way he's going to “steal” that cuddly reindeer from sweet Betty, right? Well, I won't spoil the story by telling you how it ended, but rumors at the North Pole are that Dan's name is now on Santa's “naughty” list. Ooops!
This holiday party was such a nice way to end our Olympic Club year. Thank you to all who attended, and a special thank you to those who brought unwrapped toys for the Marines' Toys for Tots campaign. It's heart-warming and thoughtful. Best wishes to all our members for a happy and wonderful new year!
Van
'Tis the season to be jolly... and on Saturday afternoon, December 7, a jolly group of Olympic T'birders gathered at Johnnie's Restaurant in Fife for our annual Christmas party. Lynn and I had the pleasure of co-hosting this event with Michael and Bonnie Hall who do such a great job with the planning and preparations for this event.
During a social hour of greetings and catching up, it was nice to visit with folks we haven't seen for awhile, including Carmen Allstrom, Mike and Cathie Ball from Oak Harbor, Barry and Linda Birch from Pt. Townsend, and Jerry and Becky Cline from across the Cascades in Chelan. Both Barry and Jerry have been going through some prolonged medical issues, so it was nice to see them looking well, and to hear from them that they're feeling better. Best wishes for their extended good health.
The food, the service, and the experience at Johnnie's was a treat, with the staff doing their best to accommodate our needs. Jon Hanson and I have a running joke at our club events because it seems no matter the restaurant, either he or I tend to be the last one served. Jon got the honor this time, finally getting his order just as I was finishing my meal. Likely, I'll be the one waiting next time.
In the spirit of the season, Santa donated for our party a Christmas wreath with it's exterior covered completely in thumb tacks. The person among us who would come closest to guessing how many tacks were on the wreath would win a $50 Costco gift card. Of all the guesses, Bonnie Hall's was the one that came the closest. Following that, a drawing was held for the wreath itself, and Wilma Hamm became its lucky winner. Congratulations to Bonnie and Wilma.
Our high-spirited gift exchange, filled with joy, frustration, heartache, and laughter lived up to its tradition. It was great to see the number of fun and entertaining gifts that people brought. It seems President Vickie had a knack for picking out gifts that were highly sought after because every time she unwrapped one, it was quickly “stolen” away. Among the most interesting exchanges happened between Betty Muir and Dan DelDuca. Betty had just “stolen” this absolutely adorable stuffed reindeer from Bonnie, and Betty said it would make just a perfect gift for her grand-daughter. Soon after, it was Dan's turn to either pick an unwrapped gift from the table... or “steal” a gift from someone else. Now we all know Dan is such a nice guy that there's no way he's going to “steal” that cuddly reindeer from sweet Betty, right? Well, I won't spoil the story by telling you how it ended, but rumors at the North Pole are that Dan's name is now on Santa's “naughty” list. Ooops!
This holiday party was such a nice way to end our Olympic Club year. Thank you to all who attended, and a special thank you to those who brought unwrapped toys for the Marines' Toys for Tots campaign. It's heart-warming and thoughtful. Best wishes to all our members for a happy and wonderful new year!
Van
BUSINESS AND PLANNING MEETING FOR OUR 2020 EVENTS
AND AWARDS CEREMONY
Date: Sunday, November 17, 2019
Place: Frank & Cathy Stubbs
Newcastle WA 98059
Agenda:
1. Making choices and scheduling our next year’s Calendar of Events.
2. Presenting Longevity Pins to those who have earned them.
3. Honoring a member with the annual Allstrom All-Star Award.
4. Any other club business.
As part of this business meeting, we’ll also include a short Awards Ceremony to give out Longevity Pins to those who have earned them, and to present the annual “Allstrom All-Star Award.” This All-Star plaque was initiated to recognize an OCTC member who has provided our club with some form of outstanding or special service during the past year. The award is a tribute to the memory of Dean Allstrom, an original and lifetime member of OCTC who played an active, devoted role in our club’s growth and lasting success. Annual recipients are selected by a vote of our club’s Executive Board.
Olympic Classic Thunderbird Club
Minutes
Sunday, November 17, 2019
The meeting was called to order by President Vickie Willson at the home of Frank and Cathy Stubbs.
33 members present. No guests or new members present. A thank you was extended to Frank and Cathy for hosting this event.
MINUTES:
We dispensed with the reading of the minutes as they were posted on the website.
TREASURER’S REPORT:
Treasurer Barb Collins distributed the report.
Checking balance: $4,813.23
Savings balance: $8,392.17
CORRESPONDENCE:
We received a letter from CTCI? asking for a donation for the 2020 convention. Motion by Morris Krause to donate $500 was seconded by Mel Lang. Motion was passed.
Old Business: Please RSVP for the Christmas Party on December 7 at Johnny’s at Fife. Show of hands was approximately 31 people attending. There is a gift exchange and a collection for Toys for Tots.
Our business meeting is at noon on January 26, 2020 at Johnny’s at Fife. We will be ordering lunch off the menu. Audit of books will take place after lunch.
NEW BUSINESS:
Frank Stubbs, Historian, distributed Longevity Pins to the following:
5 Years: Mike and Cathy Ball, Jim and Joanne Hendry, Craig & Cathy Landon, Keith McCamish & Linda McCoy
10 Years: Dan and Fran Del Duca, Ted Knieriem and Patty Petruska
20 Years: Lee and Carolynn James
25 Years: Van and Lynn Victor
30 Years: Betty Muir, Marlene Sybouts
45 Years: Kennetta Eisner, George & Dot Lang
Congratulations to Cathy Stubbs who is now a CTCI Regional Director!
Jon Hanson asked if CTCI will only be sending ballots via email now?
Cathy thinks, yes, but she hasn’t been able to read and review the meeting minutes. They are saying the cost of mailing is too high, however they mailed ballots 3 times in 2019 and it could have all been on one ballot. Members need to have an email on file with CTCI.
ALLSTROM ALL-STAR AWARD
This award is to recognize a member who has provided some sort of special or outstanding service to our club during the past year and is voted on by the executive board.
The 2019 Allstrom All - Star Award is given to Nancy Burress
APPRECIATION AWARD This award is given to a member in appreciation of their outstanding service and continued support to the club locally and nationally.
The 2019 Appreciation Award is given to Frank and Cathy Stubbs.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
A list of suggested events for 2020 was passed around to the members present. After much discussion, the following schedule was tentatively agreed on.
2020 CALENDAR (tentative)
January 26 Election of Officers at Johnny's at Fife. Important for everyone to be there.
February 19 Telephone Museum in Georgetown- Jon Hanson. Lunch at the Derby
March 22 Joe McIntosh Collection in Lynnwood- Morris Krause. Club will make a dona tion.
April 18, Saturday Gary McKay's Garage, Tacoma- Frank. Club will make a donation to Mary Bridge.
May International Convention May 4-9 in Sarasota, FL
Kelowna Okanagan Classic Thunderbird Club, My 22-26
Kubota Garden
June 14 PBY naval Air Museum, Oak Harbor- Mel Lang. Lunch at Flyer's Restaurant.
July 19 T-Bird Picnic at Nancy Burress's house on Big Lake.
August Barbecue and movie at Rob Bunn's house in Maple Valley.
Yellowstone trip
La Conner Car Show, 1st week of August
Omak Stampede, August 16
Lewiston Car Show, August 15-16
Antique Radio Museum, Bellingham Railroad Museum, Studebaker Museum
September Dogs and Cats Driving Tour Overnighter- Dee and Donna. Start at Fife, Bluett Pass, Levanworth, Grand Coulee Dam lightshow. Chelan Car Museum, tractor ride. Home via Bluett or on your own.
October 4 Gig Harbor boat museum and boat ride
November Annual Meeting- Frank and Cathy.
December Christmas Party- Mike and Bonnie. Johnny's at Fife
1. Making choices and scheduling our next year’s Calendar of Events.
2. Presenting Longevity Pins to those who have earned them.
3. Honoring a member with the annual Allstrom All-Star Award.
4. Any other club business.
As part of this business meeting, we’ll also include a short Awards Ceremony to give out Longevity Pins to those who have earned them, and to present the annual “Allstrom All-Star Award.” This All-Star plaque was initiated to recognize an OCTC member who has provided our club with some form of outstanding or special service during the past year. The award is a tribute to the memory of Dean Allstrom, an original and lifetime member of OCTC who played an active, devoted role in our club’s growth and lasting success. Annual recipients are selected by a vote of our club’s Executive Board.
Olympic Classic Thunderbird Club
Minutes
Sunday, November 17, 2019
The meeting was called to order by President Vickie Willson at the home of Frank and Cathy Stubbs.
33 members present. No guests or new members present. A thank you was extended to Frank and Cathy for hosting this event.
MINUTES:
We dispensed with the reading of the minutes as they were posted on the website.
TREASURER’S REPORT:
Treasurer Barb Collins distributed the report.
Checking balance: $4,813.23
Savings balance: $8,392.17
CORRESPONDENCE:
We received a letter from CTCI? asking for a donation for the 2020 convention. Motion by Morris Krause to donate $500 was seconded by Mel Lang. Motion was passed.
Old Business: Please RSVP for the Christmas Party on December 7 at Johnny’s at Fife. Show of hands was approximately 31 people attending. There is a gift exchange and a collection for Toys for Tots.
Our business meeting is at noon on January 26, 2020 at Johnny’s at Fife. We will be ordering lunch off the menu. Audit of books will take place after lunch.
NEW BUSINESS:
Frank Stubbs, Historian, distributed Longevity Pins to the following:
5 Years: Mike and Cathy Ball, Jim and Joanne Hendry, Craig & Cathy Landon, Keith McCamish & Linda McCoy
10 Years: Dan and Fran Del Duca, Ted Knieriem and Patty Petruska
20 Years: Lee and Carolynn James
25 Years: Van and Lynn Victor
30 Years: Betty Muir, Marlene Sybouts
45 Years: Kennetta Eisner, George & Dot Lang
Congratulations to Cathy Stubbs who is now a CTCI Regional Director!
Jon Hanson asked if CTCI will only be sending ballots via email now?
Cathy thinks, yes, but she hasn’t been able to read and review the meeting minutes. They are saying the cost of mailing is too high, however they mailed ballots 3 times in 2019 and it could have all been on one ballot. Members need to have an email on file with CTCI.
ALLSTROM ALL-STAR AWARD
This award is to recognize a member who has provided some sort of special or outstanding service to our club during the past year and is voted on by the executive board.
The 2019 Allstrom All - Star Award is given to Nancy Burress
APPRECIATION AWARD This award is given to a member in appreciation of their outstanding service and continued support to the club locally and nationally.
The 2019 Appreciation Award is given to Frank and Cathy Stubbs.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
A list of suggested events for 2020 was passed around to the members present. After much discussion, the following schedule was tentatively agreed on.
2020 CALENDAR (tentative)
January 26 Election of Officers at Johnny's at Fife. Important for everyone to be there.
February 19 Telephone Museum in Georgetown- Jon Hanson. Lunch at the Derby
March 22 Joe McIntosh Collection in Lynnwood- Morris Krause. Club will make a dona tion.
April 18, Saturday Gary McKay's Garage, Tacoma- Frank. Club will make a donation to Mary Bridge.
May International Convention May 4-9 in Sarasota, FL
Kelowna Okanagan Classic Thunderbird Club, My 22-26
Kubota Garden
June 14 PBY naval Air Museum, Oak Harbor- Mel Lang. Lunch at Flyer's Restaurant.
July 19 T-Bird Picnic at Nancy Burress's house on Big Lake.
August Barbecue and movie at Rob Bunn's house in Maple Valley.
Yellowstone trip
La Conner Car Show, 1st week of August
Omak Stampede, August 16
Lewiston Car Show, August 15-16
Antique Radio Museum, Bellingham Railroad Museum, Studebaker Museum
September Dogs and Cats Driving Tour Overnighter- Dee and Donna. Start at Fife, Bluett Pass, Levanworth, Grand Coulee Dam lightshow. Chelan Car Museum, tractor ride. Home via Bluett or on your own.
October 4 Gig Harbor boat museum and boat ride
November Annual Meeting- Frank and Cathy.
December Christmas Party- Mike and Bonnie. Johnny's at Fife
OCTC Kubota Garden
Fall Foliage Tour
Sunday 10/20/2019
Our October event started with a brief spattering of rain as we waited to begin our tour of the Kubota Gardens in the Rainier Beach area of Seattle, but it quickly dried up to give us a great day for the tour of these beautiful gardens. The gardens themselves, started in 1927, now include a stunning twenty acres of hills and valleys, streams, waterfalls, ponds, rock outcroppings and an exceptionally rich and mature collection of plant material. This unique urban refuge displays over sixty years of vision, effort and commitment by the Kubota family. Nine club members toured the facility including Bruce Eardley and Vickie Willson, Frank and Cathy Stubbs, Larry and Emily Muir, Fran Del Duca and new member Janice Westfall with her friend John Paul.
There was a great appreciation for all the amazing plantings placed so precisely into arrangements as to always present the eyes with a breath-taking variety of colors, sizes and shapes. It’s hard to imagine the thought and care that went into the placement of every plant and shrub. Nestled in amongst the plantings were ponds filled with coy and traditional oriental bridges onto and off of the tiny center islands. During our tour we passed two large evergreen trees that are dying and marked for removal, both had small signs next to them indicating why they were beyond being saved, and that two trees would always be planted for every tree that needed removal. It was a beautiful tribute to maintaining the longevity of the gardens.
Our docent was very knowledgeable in the plantings and the grounds, and was able to provide us with answers to our many questions, and shared the history and visions of the Kubota family, now in their third generation of master gardeners. The tour covered many of the areas most commonly visited by the public and a few that not many have found on their own. We even climbed to the top of the waterfall, to the very top of the hill that Mr. Kubota built, and had a great aerial view of both the grounds below us and the valley in the distance. We all agreed that it would be wonderful for the club to come back again in the spring to see the colors and foliage as winter gave way to a new year of growth, buds, and blossoms.
Following the tour, we caravanned a short distance away for lunch at the Stonehouse Café on the Lake Washington waterfront. Waiting for us at the restaurant were Jon and Susan Hansen, along with Dan Del Duca and his brother. The restaurant, as its name suggests, has a stone exterior with a log-cabin appearance on the inside. The building was once used as a restoration garage and was decorated with tin-plate photos of classic cars, chairs made from old oil drums on casters, and even has an old pick-up donated by the Old Rides Car Club sitting on the front lawn.
There was a great appreciation for all the amazing plantings placed so precisely into arrangements as to always present the eyes with a breath-taking variety of colors, sizes and shapes. It’s hard to imagine the thought and care that went into the placement of every plant and shrub. Nestled in amongst the plantings were ponds filled with coy and traditional oriental bridges onto and off of the tiny center islands. During our tour we passed two large evergreen trees that are dying and marked for removal, both had small signs next to them indicating why they were beyond being saved, and that two trees would always be planted for every tree that needed removal. It was a beautiful tribute to maintaining the longevity of the gardens.
Our docent was very knowledgeable in the plantings and the grounds, and was able to provide us with answers to our many questions, and shared the history and visions of the Kubota family, now in their third generation of master gardeners. The tour covered many of the areas most commonly visited by the public and a few that not many have found on their own. We even climbed to the top of the waterfall, to the very top of the hill that Mr. Kubota built, and had a great aerial view of both the grounds below us and the valley in the distance. We all agreed that it would be wonderful for the club to come back again in the spring to see the colors and foliage as winter gave way to a new year of growth, buds, and blossoms.
Following the tour, we caravanned a short distance away for lunch at the Stonehouse Café on the Lake Washington waterfront. Waiting for us at the restaurant were Jon and Susan Hansen, along with Dan Del Duca and his brother. The restaurant, as its name suggests, has a stone exterior with a log-cabin appearance on the inside. The building was once used as a restoration garage and was decorated with tin-plate photos of classic cars, chairs made from old oil drums on casters, and even has an old pick-up donated by the Old Rides Car Club sitting on the front lawn.
OCTC BP Cherry Point Refinery Tour
Friday September 27, 2019
On Friday September 27th, 15 members and 3 guests met at the park & Ride North of Burlington WA to run to the BP Refinery. In attendance were the Balls, the Stubbs, the Hendry’s, the Hamms, Ron Carr & Barb Collins, Bruce Eardley & Vicky Willson, Nancy Burress and the Langs. The guests were Joann Hendry’s daughter & her husband, and Norm Lang, Mel & George’s brother.
We left the park & ride around 9:30 for the about hour drive to Cherry Point Refinery. By the time we went about a mile the light rain turned into buckets coming down, had to slow down to keep from hydroplaning. But just south of Bellingham the pavement was dry and the sun came out, and turned into a beautiful day.
Arriving at the recreation area and getting checked in, there were pastries and coffee to go with the displays. Then it was time to board the buses to the refinery itself for an hour tour. Where we learned the refinery runs 235 thousand barrels of crude oil a day 24-7 (a barrel is 42 gallons). They produce everything from calcined coke to propane. The main product being jet fuel and diesel fuel, they supply 50% of fuel for Sea Tac airport and 33% to Vancouver BC airport. We went to the general shop (where all types of welding is done on both pipe and structure). Gasoline is shipped to a terminal where additives and ethanol are added as the trucks take it to the stations. The crude oil comes in by pipe, rail, and ship.
Back to the Rec. area for a catered lunch of hot dogs, hamburgers, salad, fruit plate, and beans. There are no pictures as cameras were not allowed as well as hand bags or back packs.
Mel and Linda Lang
We left the park & ride around 9:30 for the about hour drive to Cherry Point Refinery. By the time we went about a mile the light rain turned into buckets coming down, had to slow down to keep from hydroplaning. But just south of Bellingham the pavement was dry and the sun came out, and turned into a beautiful day.
Arriving at the recreation area and getting checked in, there were pastries and coffee to go with the displays. Then it was time to board the buses to the refinery itself for an hour tour. Where we learned the refinery runs 235 thousand barrels of crude oil a day 24-7 (a barrel is 42 gallons). They produce everything from calcined coke to propane. The main product being jet fuel and diesel fuel, they supply 50% of fuel for Sea Tac airport and 33% to Vancouver BC airport. We went to the general shop (where all types of welding is done on both pipe and structure). Gasoline is shipped to a terminal where additives and ethanol are added as the trucks take it to the stations. The crude oil comes in by pipe, rail, and ship.
Back to the Rec. area for a catered lunch of hot dogs, hamburgers, salad, fruit plate, and beans. There are no pictures as cameras were not allowed as well as hand bags or back packs.
Mel and Linda Lang
2019 CATS and DOGS ROAD TOUR
Covered Bridges of Oregon
September 16-19, 2019
Solid Axle Corvette Club and Olympic Classic Tbird Club
Earlier in the year the Stubbs’ and Little’s (Solid Axle Corvette Club) began a discussion about planning a multi-day backroads tour that could possibly include members for our two clubs. After some discussion we focused on Jerry’s idea to plan an Oregon Covered Bridge Tour. So Jerry took-off on the idea and planned daily routes and hotels for us. Jerry is definitely the planner and we were there for him to bounce around ideas. So early Monday morning, September 16th, we met at the Poodle Dog Restaurant in Fife for the start of the first Cats & Dogs extended tour. Leaving Fife we took a short trip down I-5 and then onto the backroads heading to our first destination – breakfast at the Country Cousin in Centralia. Upon leaving the Country Cousin our caravan included 5 Thunderbirds (one Retro) and 7 Corvettes (one newer). Olympic members on the tour included: Frank and Cathy, Bruce and Vickie, Clarke and Wilma, Les and Cynthia, and Nancy in her ’62 Vette. As a swap former members Jim and Janet Blodgett were driving their ’57 Tbird. The remainder of the day was spent driving mostly back roads enjoying the fall colors as we passed through many small towns until Longview and Portland where we drove along more urban roadways. On our way to our destination in Salem, we detoured off I-5 south of Portland to view and cross the Gallon House Bridge, our first wooden bridge of the tour.
Tuesday morning after breakfast our group of twelve were off to Albany. At our first regrouping stop we met up with two more solid axle Corvettes and a ’57 TBird, all from the Albany area. Our
group of fifteen wound our way through the scenic country side east of Albany viewing and crossing six more covered bridges. At each many pictures were taken of the Birds and Corvettes entering and exiting the bridges. That afternoon we enjoyed a late lunch in the little town of Scio followed by an invite for a visit and garage tour at one of the local’s residence. Of course, all good days can come to a wet end as we returned to our Salem hotel.
Both Monday and Tuesday evening the Corvette club made arrangements and rented a banquet room at the Best Western, our host hotel. It was decided by all that we would like to eat dinner in the casual confines of our private room. Monday night we enjoyed sandwich wraps, chips,
cookies, etc. and on Tuesday it was Costco pizza night. Everyone brought their own beverages, and two local couples who had joined our Tuesday tour joined us for the festivities.
Wednesday morning following breakfast we were all packed and ready to roll. We headed back
north a short distance to Brooks where we visited Powerland Heritage Park. This park is a collection of museums for power equipment such as farm machinery, commercial trucks, trains construction equipment historic fire/emergency vehicles, and the engines that power them all. The staff at this park is pretty much all volunteer, so on this day we were able to tour the historic commercial truck, and auto/motorcycle museums. Following our tours we again drove a short distance and took a nine passenger ferry across the Willamette River – about a 2 minute crossing. With twelve of us it took two ferry’s to get us to the other side. Once joined up we were off on the scenic backroads to Tillamook. Here we enjoyed a stop to at the Tillamook Cheese Factory to have lunch, eat ice-cream, sample cheeses and stroll through their cheese market. For the final leg of the day we continued up the coast highway into Seaside with a stop at the boardwalk circle for pictures. From there our destination was the Best Western in Astoria where most of our rooms enjoyed great views of the Columbia River. That evening we were able to again gather in a private meeting room with Olympic Club members chipping in to furnish KFC chicken and jojo’s for the evening meal.
Thursday morning saw some of the group taking off in different directions for their trip home.
Those staying together continued north to Raymond, WA, where some enjoyed the tour of the quaint Raymond Carraige Musuem. Again, we lost more of the group with just a handful of us continuing the backroads to Port Orchard and the ride across on the Fauntleroy Ferry.
It appears our first ever Cats & Dogs road trip was a huge success. At our final night in Astoria there was much talk about a repeat performance in Fall 2020 with a possible tour over in the eastern parts of Washington. Stay tuned for further information.
Cathy Stubbs
Tuesday morning after breakfast our group of twelve were off to Albany. At our first regrouping stop we met up with two more solid axle Corvettes and a ’57 TBird, all from the Albany area. Our
group of fifteen wound our way through the scenic country side east of Albany viewing and crossing six more covered bridges. At each many pictures were taken of the Birds and Corvettes entering and exiting the bridges. That afternoon we enjoyed a late lunch in the little town of Scio followed by an invite for a visit and garage tour at one of the local’s residence. Of course, all good days can come to a wet end as we returned to our Salem hotel.
Both Monday and Tuesday evening the Corvette club made arrangements and rented a banquet room at the Best Western, our host hotel. It was decided by all that we would like to eat dinner in the casual confines of our private room. Monday night we enjoyed sandwich wraps, chips,
cookies, etc. and on Tuesday it was Costco pizza night. Everyone brought their own beverages, and two local couples who had joined our Tuesday tour joined us for the festivities.
Wednesday morning following breakfast we were all packed and ready to roll. We headed back
north a short distance to Brooks where we visited Powerland Heritage Park. This park is a collection of museums for power equipment such as farm machinery, commercial trucks, trains construction equipment historic fire/emergency vehicles, and the engines that power them all. The staff at this park is pretty much all volunteer, so on this day we were able to tour the historic commercial truck, and auto/motorcycle museums. Following our tours we again drove a short distance and took a nine passenger ferry across the Willamette River – about a 2 minute crossing. With twelve of us it took two ferry’s to get us to the other side. Once joined up we were off on the scenic backroads to Tillamook. Here we enjoyed a stop to at the Tillamook Cheese Factory to have lunch, eat ice-cream, sample cheeses and stroll through their cheese market. For the final leg of the day we continued up the coast highway into Seaside with a stop at the boardwalk circle for pictures. From there our destination was the Best Western in Astoria where most of our rooms enjoyed great views of the Columbia River. That evening we were able to again gather in a private meeting room with Olympic Club members chipping in to furnish KFC chicken and jojo’s for the evening meal.
Thursday morning saw some of the group taking off in different directions for their trip home.
Those staying together continued north to Raymond, WA, where some enjoyed the tour of the quaint Raymond Carraige Musuem. Again, we lost more of the group with just a handful of us continuing the backroads to Port Orchard and the ride across on the Fauntleroy Ferry.
It appears our first ever Cats & Dogs road trip was a huge success. At our final night in Astoria there was much talk about a repeat performance in Fall 2020 with a possible tour over in the eastern parts of Washington. Stay tuned for further information.
Cathy Stubbs
OCTC Mystery Tour South
Saturday August 3, 2019
If you are a car lover and food lover we had a great day planned. We had a small but energetic group looking forward a great cruise.
We left Starbucks in Renton at 9:30am for a scenic drive on the back roads to our first stop. We drove leisurely through Renton Highlands, then Maple Valley, Ravensdale, Cumberland, and finally into Enumclaw to the Thunder Dome Car Museum. This was for the car lover in all of us. After we got checked in we were given a brief introduction to the museum and staff and then were turned loose to explore and enjoy the museum. We were all impressed with the collection of cars on display and the facility they were housed in.
Our second stop, for the food lover, was a great little restaurant, Krain Corner. The Restaurant serves breakfast, burgers & American entrees in a traditional, pub-like space. Every dish is created with an old-fashioned touch using down-home ingredients for a down-home meal. They serve big meals from hot biscuits & gravy in the morning to their signature fish & chips through the evening. Breakfast is served all day. The restaurant looks like an old country store with antiques on display throughout the building. They had a separate room set up as a bakery with some great deserts on display.
After lunch we were on our own for the trip home.
We hope you all had a good time on this event, enjoyed the scenic ride, the car collection, and of course lunch.
Bruce & Vickie
We left Starbucks in Renton at 9:30am for a scenic drive on the back roads to our first stop. We drove leisurely through Renton Highlands, then Maple Valley, Ravensdale, Cumberland, and finally into Enumclaw to the Thunder Dome Car Museum. This was for the car lover in all of us. After we got checked in we were given a brief introduction to the museum and staff and then were turned loose to explore and enjoy the museum. We were all impressed with the collection of cars on display and the facility they were housed in.
Our second stop, for the food lover, was a great little restaurant, Krain Corner. The Restaurant serves breakfast, burgers & American entrees in a traditional, pub-like space. Every dish is created with an old-fashioned touch using down-home ingredients for a down-home meal. They serve big meals from hot biscuits & gravy in the morning to their signature fish & chips through the evening. Breakfast is served all day. The restaurant looks like an old country store with antiques on display throughout the building. They had a separate room set up as a bakery with some great deserts on display.
After lunch we were on our own for the trip home.
We hope you all had a good time on this event, enjoyed the scenic ride, the car collection, and of course lunch.
Bruce & Vickie
40th Annual All Thunderbird Picnic
at
Nancy Burress House
17088 Lake View Blvd Mt. Vernon WA 98274
Saturday, July 20, 2019 Time: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Little ‘Birds. Big Lake. Great Fun!
On Saturday, July 20, 2019, a nice group of 21 members attended our club’s 40th Annual All Thunderbird Picnic, hosted by Nancy Burress at her beautiful waterfront home on the shores of Big Lake in Mount Vernon. Half the fun for a few of us was the enjoyable route getting there. Jim and Joanne Hendry, Michael and Bonnie Hall, Van ad Lynn Victor, and Vickie Willson met at Starbucks in Renton. Vickie then led us through decent traffic along I-405 to our next stop in Woodinville. She was an easy target to follow because she was driving her “screaming yellow” GT Mustang convertible. At Woodinville, we were joined by Jan Westfall and her friend John Paul in her beautiful white ’56, and her son Philip, in his vintage red Mustang. Vickie then continued to lead this caravan on a scenic and leisurely drive along Washington Route 9 North all the way to Big Lake. The only disappointing mishap enroute was that the Hendry's lost one of their wheel covers as it spun off into the brush. So unfortunate.
Arriving at Nancy’s, we were joined by Clarke and Wilma Hamm, Jon and Susan Hanson, Mike and Cathie Ball, Morris and Gayle Krause, and Chuck and Geri Kahler. It was a real pleasure to re-connect with Chuck and Geri; it’s been some time since they’ve attended one of our events.
It was a warm, sunny day with most of us sitting out on Nancy’s deck and dock, watching swimmers and boating activities on the lake.
A highlight of our picnics is feasting on delicious potluck, and this year was no exception. Barbequed pork, a variety of side dishes and salads, and gourmet desserts were enjoyed by all.
On behalf of the club, we offer a sincere thank you to Nancy for hosting this event. She truly made us feel welcome and her kind hospitality was very much appreciated.
We now look forward to Bruce and Vickie’s mystery tour set for Saturday, August 3. Bruce said his health will improve a lot if there’s a BIG turn-out.
Van and Lynn
On Saturday, July 20, 2019, a nice group of 21 members attended our club’s 40th Annual All Thunderbird Picnic, hosted by Nancy Burress at her beautiful waterfront home on the shores of Big Lake in Mount Vernon. Half the fun for a few of us was the enjoyable route getting there. Jim and Joanne Hendry, Michael and Bonnie Hall, Van ad Lynn Victor, and Vickie Willson met at Starbucks in Renton. Vickie then led us through decent traffic along I-405 to our next stop in Woodinville. She was an easy target to follow because she was driving her “screaming yellow” GT Mustang convertible. At Woodinville, we were joined by Jan Westfall and her friend John Paul in her beautiful white ’56, and her son Philip, in his vintage red Mustang. Vickie then continued to lead this caravan on a scenic and leisurely drive along Washington Route 9 North all the way to Big Lake. The only disappointing mishap enroute was that the Hendry's lost one of their wheel covers as it spun off into the brush. So unfortunate.
Arriving at Nancy’s, we were joined by Clarke and Wilma Hamm, Jon and Susan Hanson, Mike and Cathie Ball, Morris and Gayle Krause, and Chuck and Geri Kahler. It was a real pleasure to re-connect with Chuck and Geri; it’s been some time since they’ve attended one of our events.
It was a warm, sunny day with most of us sitting out on Nancy’s deck and dock, watching swimmers and boating activities on the lake.
A highlight of our picnics is feasting on delicious potluck, and this year was no exception. Barbequed pork, a variety of side dishes and salads, and gourmet desserts were enjoyed by all.
On behalf of the club, we offer a sincere thank you to Nancy for hosting this event. She truly made us feel welcome and her kind hospitality was very much appreciated.
We now look forward to Bruce and Vickie’s mystery tour set for Saturday, August 3. Bruce said his health will improve a lot if there’s a BIG turn-out.
Van and Lynn
Stanwood Car Show
&
Saturday night cruise
June 29 & 30, 2019
This was listed as our club event for June. It was listed as an “overnight” if you planned to attend the Saturday night Cruise and the Sunday Show.
Last year there were around 600 cars at the show, this year it seemed to be about the same.
Saturday night Vickie and I along with Nancy Buress, Clarke and Wilma Hamm, Mel and Linda Lang were there for the Saturday Night Cruise. There were over 100 cars at the Cruise parking lot waiting for the cruise through downtown Stanwood to begin. Last year there were “burn outs” allowed through the entire route and some of them were a bit “out of control”. This year there were NO burn outs allowed. They brought in extra police to enforce this policy. It did make for a safer and quieter cruise.
Sunday started early, we left Nancy’s house at 5am to head to the show. Why so early you may ask (I know I did), because Nancy and her son had to work at the show and be there early. The show was packed with a large array of cars on both sides of the street and finally into the parking lot of the school. Clarke and Wilma also had to work at the show along with Mel Lang. A little later in the morning Jon Hanson showed up (no car but came to the show). Vickie and I had breakfast with Jon. Later in the morning Barb Collins and Ron Karr along with Doug and Patty Wanamaker showed up (no car) to see the show. Well that makes it an official club event. We had a total of 12 members from OCTC in attendance.
They had around 200 trophy's to give out. They gave out about 60 at the Saturday night cruise (I got one there) and the rest during the show on Sunday.
We are looking forward to next year, probably not as a club event, but another great car show to attend.
Thanks to Nancy for her hospitality over the weekend.
Bruce and Vickie
Last year there were around 600 cars at the show, this year it seemed to be about the same.
Saturday night Vickie and I along with Nancy Buress, Clarke and Wilma Hamm, Mel and Linda Lang were there for the Saturday Night Cruise. There were over 100 cars at the Cruise parking lot waiting for the cruise through downtown Stanwood to begin. Last year there were “burn outs” allowed through the entire route and some of them were a bit “out of control”. This year there were NO burn outs allowed. They brought in extra police to enforce this policy. It did make for a safer and quieter cruise.
Sunday started early, we left Nancy’s house at 5am to head to the show. Why so early you may ask (I know I did), because Nancy and her son had to work at the show and be there early. The show was packed with a large array of cars on both sides of the street and finally into the parking lot of the school. Clarke and Wilma also had to work at the show along with Mel Lang. A little later in the morning Jon Hanson showed up (no car but came to the show). Vickie and I had breakfast with Jon. Later in the morning Barb Collins and Ron Karr along with Doug and Patty Wanamaker showed up (no car) to see the show. Well that makes it an official club event. We had a total of 12 members from OCTC in attendance.
They had around 200 trophy's to give out. They gave out about 60 at the Saturday night cruise (I got one there) and the rest during the show on Sunday.
We are looking forward to next year, probably not as a club event, but another great car show to attend.
Thanks to Nancy for her hospitality over the weekend.
Bruce and Vickie
2019 CTCI REGIONAL EVENT
FLAGSTAFF, AZ
May 15 - 19 2019
This year’s only CTCI Regional Event was hosted by the Arizona Classic T-Bird Club in Flagstaff, AZ. The site was the Little America Hotel. Clarke and Wilma Hamm, Frank and Cathy Stubbs, Kyle Stubbs with Dave VanWinkle, Nancy Burress, and Morris and Gayle Krause all made the trip from the northwest in our little birds. Hamm’s, Stubbs, Dave, and Nancy met up in Baker City, OR, for our first night on the road. We were surprised when we arrived to find Ed and Diana Life from Victoria, BC also staying at the same hotel. Next day we hit the road with overnight stops in Jackpot, NV where we met up with Morris and Gayle, and then onto the extremely warm Las Vegas. After Las Vegas, some of us went on our separate ways to eventually arrive that evening in Flagstaff.
After arriving in the Arizona high country temps cooled down fast to the point where the evening prior to the concours a little rain turned into ice on the cars. The concours start time ended up being postponed an hour so participants could de-ice and wipe down their cars. Little America was quite the sprawling hotel, but an extremely nice place. The Arizona Classic T-Bird members were very good hosts and had plenty of activities planned for our enjoyment. These activities included, welcome party, western barbeque, banquet, tour to Sedona, ladies luncheon and fashion show, and driving tour to Wupatki and Sunset Crater
National Monuments. Some of us took advantage of the location doing walking tours of Old Flagstaff on old Route 66, driving to Winslow (Standing on the Corner), AZ, and touring Meteor Crater and Walnut Canyon National Monument.
Our OCTC members Tony and Eve Dilores and George and Dot Lang were also in Flagstaff. It is always great to see them and this trip we actually got to spend some quality time together catching up on each other’s lives.
Congratulations to our members who came away with some awards, as follows:
Tony & Eve Dilores Gold 1957 Concours II Primary Non-Original
Nancy Burress 3rd Place Touring Class III
Most Popular Touring
Kyle Stubbs Most Popular Display
The Olympic Club is currently in 3rd Place going into the next round for the Ford Johnson Mileage Award with 6 cars and accumulated miles of 8070. The 2020 CTCI International is scheduled for the first week of May in Sarasota, FL. We sure hope some of you might consider taking the road trip to Sarasota in your little bird. We know you are going, UGH! and It is a challenge, but the sites you see and the people you meet are well worth it. It sure would be great if OCTC could bring the Ford Johnson Mileage Award back home, but we need your help to do it.
Cathy Stubbs
After arriving in the Arizona high country temps cooled down fast to the point where the evening prior to the concours a little rain turned into ice on the cars. The concours start time ended up being postponed an hour so participants could de-ice and wipe down their cars. Little America was quite the sprawling hotel, but an extremely nice place. The Arizona Classic T-Bird members were very good hosts and had plenty of activities planned for our enjoyment. These activities included, welcome party, western barbeque, banquet, tour to Sedona, ladies luncheon and fashion show, and driving tour to Wupatki and Sunset Crater
National Monuments. Some of us took advantage of the location doing walking tours of Old Flagstaff on old Route 66, driving to Winslow (Standing on the Corner), AZ, and touring Meteor Crater and Walnut Canyon National Monument.
Our OCTC members Tony and Eve Dilores and George and Dot Lang were also in Flagstaff. It is always great to see them and this trip we actually got to spend some quality time together catching up on each other’s lives.
Congratulations to our members who came away with some awards, as follows:
Tony & Eve Dilores Gold 1957 Concours II Primary Non-Original
Nancy Burress 3rd Place Touring Class III
Most Popular Touring
Kyle Stubbs Most Popular Display
The Olympic Club is currently in 3rd Place going into the next round for the Ford Johnson Mileage Award with 6 cars and accumulated miles of 8070. The 2020 CTCI International is scheduled for the first week of May in Sarasota, FL. We sure hope some of you might consider taking the road trip to Sarasota in your little bird. We know you are going, UGH! and It is a challenge, but the sites you see and the people you meet are well worth it. It sure would be great if OCTC could bring the Ford Johnson Mileage Award back home, but we need your help to do it.
Cathy Stubbs
Scenic Drive to
The Red Horse Diner
Ellensburg WA.
Sunday May 26, 2019
We awoke to a cloudy and rainy morning so Vickie and I decided to take her yellow Mustang and leave the T-Bird home. The forecast was calling for rain showers through out the morning and thunder storms over the mountain pass and into Eastern WA
.
We met at Country Pride Restaurant in North Bend WA. at 10:00am for a lite breakfast, coffee, etc. and left there at 11:00am to begin our drive. Much to our surprise there were 4 baby birds, 1 retro bird, and Acura NSX. The weather was still threatening so I’m glad I left my bird home.
The first stop was in Cle Elum WA. at approx.12noon at the famous Cle Elum Bakery so we could stretch our legs, and just take a break before we headed out on the second leg of our trip at about 12:30pm. We all loaded up on some great bakery items to snack on there and to take home.
The second leg of the trip we got off the freeway and took some scenic back roads to the Red Horse diner in Ellensburg WA. for lunch. We arrived a little before 1:00pm. The restaurant was ready for us and got us seated in the bar area. The whole time we were inside eating it was raining pretty good. As we finished eating the rain stopped so we were able to get some photos in front of the restaurant before heading home. In spite of the weather we all had a good time and enjoyed the drive.
Thank you Larry & Emily Muir, Jim and Joanne Hendry, Michael and Bonnie Hall, Van and Lynn Victor, Les and Cynthia Willman, and Frank and Cathy Stubbs for attending and making the trip a success.
Additional Thank You’s to the staff at the Country Pride, Cle Elum Bakery, and Red Horse Diner for taking good care of us.
Bruce & Vickie
.
We met at Country Pride Restaurant in North Bend WA. at 10:00am for a lite breakfast, coffee, etc. and left there at 11:00am to begin our drive. Much to our surprise there were 4 baby birds, 1 retro bird, and Acura NSX. The weather was still threatening so I’m glad I left my bird home.
The first stop was in Cle Elum WA. at approx.12noon at the famous Cle Elum Bakery so we could stretch our legs, and just take a break before we headed out on the second leg of our trip at about 12:30pm. We all loaded up on some great bakery items to snack on there and to take home.
The second leg of the trip we got off the freeway and took some scenic back roads to the Red Horse diner in Ellensburg WA. for lunch. We arrived a little before 1:00pm. The restaurant was ready for us and got us seated in the bar area. The whole time we were inside eating it was raining pretty good. As we finished eating the rain stopped so we were able to get some photos in front of the restaurant before heading home. In spite of the weather we all had a good time and enjoyed the drive.
Thank you Larry & Emily Muir, Jim and Joanne Hendry, Michael and Bonnie Hall, Van and Lynn Victor, Les and Cynthia Willman, and Frank and Cathy Stubbs for attending and making the trip a success.
Additional Thank You’s to the staff at the Country Pride, Cle Elum Bakery, and Red Horse Diner for taking good care of us.
Bruce & Vickie
NO CLUB EVENT FOR APRIL
Unfortunately there was no club event scheduled for April. We asked for ideas and a host but no one stepped up so we had to go with no event. This is the first time in a long time that we had no event.
As we always say “this is your club” if you don’t get involved we cannot survive and could have many more months without an club event planned.
We have been able to fill the rest of this years events. Check out the Club Events calendar for some new additions and dates.
As we always say “this is your club” if you don’t get involved we cannot survive and could have many more months without an club event planned.
We have been able to fill the rest of this years events. Check out the Club Events calendar for some new additions and dates.
Olympic Game Farm &
Tour of Brown Maloney’s Collection
Saturday March 23 & Sunday March 24, 2019
Overnight in Sequim
The anticipated rain held off, as it usually does in Sequim, and three couples met up at the Highway 101 Diner in Sequim for lunch and some reminiscing of past events. The jukebox at the restaurant is the tail-end of a ’57 T-bird, which we all appreciated. Vickie Willson and Bruce Eardley, Van and Lynn Victor, and Donna Weisenburg with her friend Shar all enjoyed great meals, then headed out to the Olympic Game Farm. After a quick stop in the gift shop we all got into our cars and joined the line of vehicles heading through the driving tour. A lady on her way out handed us three loaves of unused bread. How she ever made it through the park with leftover bread I’ll never understand. The tour started by driving past the prairie dog hill, llamas, yaks, zebras, bears, and the cages of predatory tigers and wolves, and the rare wild rabbit. It was obvious that the animals had seen their fair share of bread, as the leftovers were scattered along the roadway – they obviously had had their fill already. I was concerned that we, too, would have leftovers to give to another car.
As we approached the cattle crossing that lead into the meadow where the elk, small deer and bison roamed we knew we were in trouble. The open gate was being “monitored” by two sets of attendants making sure things stayed calm. One by one we drove into the meadow and were swarmed by the bison still hungry for food. I’d forgotten how large these animals can be until a full-sized bull bison stuck his head over a foot into the front window and refused to get out. He ate the last of our bread and that huge black tongue was still combing every inch of the front seat searching for more bread. I couldn’t push his head out with all my strength! It became obvious that everyone had used up most of their bread earlier in the route and left these bison still wanting more. We were all laughing hysterically as we stopped back at the gift shop to clean off the cars. Donna and Bruce both had their mirrors knocked out of alignment, and our windows and door panels were all coated with a layer of slobber but no damage, these were completely gentle creatures.
After checking into our hotel and taking short naps, we all headed to The Cedars at Dungeness for dinner, and were joined by Linda and Barry Birch. The restaurant hadn’t communicated our reservation to the hostess, but with our party being eight instead of the anticipated 16 or so, she was able to seat us fairly quickly. Our seafood dinners were absolutely amazing, and we all left overly stuffed but with large smiles on our faces.
The next morning, we enjoyed a complimentary breakfast at the hotel and followed our maps to Brown’s house. Well, those that had maps followed them. Bruce had printed one map too few so we followed his Waze navigation system which lead us onto a dead-end gravel road with the cattle field between us and Brown’s house. After a quick doubling back we joined the four couples from Saturday along with Frank, Cathy and Kyle Stubbs, Dan Del Duca, Martin and Diana Antrim, Jim and Joanne Hendry, and Phillip and mom Janice Westfall. Also present with Brown was Dan Kalinski who bought Dean and Carmen Allstrom’s grey ‘57 and brought it to share with us.
Brown and Dan opened up five buildings for our viewing. As we passed from building to building the collection continued to get more and more unbelievable, and we were all in awe of this wonderful group of cars. Brown’s garages included three classic Mercedes, two Mustangs, a ’57 T-bird that Frank restored 20 years ago, and a retro bird, a Cobra, several Ferrari’s, and way too many to list here. Each car was accompanied by a plaque containing the make, model and year of the car and in some cases the limited amount of restoration that had been done. The pictures here don’t do justice to how well maintained and beautiful these cars truly are.
Our grateful thanks go out to Brown and Dan for sharing the collection with us.
Vickie and Bruce
As we approached the cattle crossing that lead into the meadow where the elk, small deer and bison roamed we knew we were in trouble. The open gate was being “monitored” by two sets of attendants making sure things stayed calm. One by one we drove into the meadow and were swarmed by the bison still hungry for food. I’d forgotten how large these animals can be until a full-sized bull bison stuck his head over a foot into the front window and refused to get out. He ate the last of our bread and that huge black tongue was still combing every inch of the front seat searching for more bread. I couldn’t push his head out with all my strength! It became obvious that everyone had used up most of their bread earlier in the route and left these bison still wanting more. We were all laughing hysterically as we stopped back at the gift shop to clean off the cars. Donna and Bruce both had their mirrors knocked out of alignment, and our windows and door panels were all coated with a layer of slobber but no damage, these were completely gentle creatures.
After checking into our hotel and taking short naps, we all headed to The Cedars at Dungeness for dinner, and were joined by Linda and Barry Birch. The restaurant hadn’t communicated our reservation to the hostess, but with our party being eight instead of the anticipated 16 or so, she was able to seat us fairly quickly. Our seafood dinners were absolutely amazing, and we all left overly stuffed but with large smiles on our faces.
The next morning, we enjoyed a complimentary breakfast at the hotel and followed our maps to Brown’s house. Well, those that had maps followed them. Bruce had printed one map too few so we followed his Waze navigation system which lead us onto a dead-end gravel road with the cattle field between us and Brown’s house. After a quick doubling back we joined the four couples from Saturday along with Frank, Cathy and Kyle Stubbs, Dan Del Duca, Martin and Diana Antrim, Jim and Joanne Hendry, and Phillip and mom Janice Westfall. Also present with Brown was Dan Kalinski who bought Dean and Carmen Allstrom’s grey ‘57 and brought it to share with us.
Brown and Dan opened up five buildings for our viewing. As we passed from building to building the collection continued to get more and more unbelievable, and we were all in awe of this wonderful group of cars. Brown’s garages included three classic Mercedes, two Mustangs, a ’57 T-bird that Frank restored 20 years ago, and a retro bird, a Cobra, several Ferrari’s, and way too many to list here. Each car was accompanied by a plaque containing the make, model and year of the car and in some cases the limited amount of restoration that had been done. The pictures here don’t do justice to how well maintained and beautiful these cars truly are.
Our grateful thanks go out to Brown and Dan for sharing the collection with us.
Vickie and Bruce
Our Lunch Stop in Sequim
At the Game Farm
At Brown Maloney's Collection
Scenic Driving Tour to Eatonville &
Rosemarie Van Cleve’s 90th Birthday Party
Sunday Feb 24, 2019
Snowmageddon has finally moved on so we are able to celebrate Rosemarie’s 90th birthday before she turns 91.
There were 10 OCTC members in attendance at her party held in the Catholic church hall in Eatonville. Lots of other friends and family were there, all to celebrate Rosemarie’s special day.
There was a good spread of food - snacks, cookies, sandwiches, and hot spaghetti and hot mac & cheese.
Rosemarie arrived to a round of applause and then the festivities began.
Everyone took the time to say hello to her as she sat at her table.
During the festivities many family and friends spoke of the years they have known her and some of the adventures they shared and looked forward to sharing many more. A toast was given and everyone had a glass of champagne or sparkling cider. There was plenty of Birthday cake for everyone.
She really appreciated everyone showing up to share her day.
Rosemarie and her late husband Lad joined our club in February 1985 and have been active members, including hosting our annual picnic in Eatonville for many years.
We were all happy for her and for being able to celebrate her special day.
Bruce
There were 10 OCTC members in attendance at her party held in the Catholic church hall in Eatonville. Lots of other friends and family were there, all to celebrate Rosemarie’s special day.
There was a good spread of food - snacks, cookies, sandwiches, and hot spaghetti and hot mac & cheese.
Rosemarie arrived to a round of applause and then the festivities began.
Everyone took the time to say hello to her as she sat at her table.
During the festivities many family and friends spoke of the years they have known her and some of the adventures they shared and looked forward to sharing many more. A toast was given and everyone had a glass of champagne or sparkling cider. There was plenty of Birthday cake for everyone.
She really appreciated everyone showing up to share her day.
Rosemarie and her late husband Lad joined our club in February 1985 and have been active members, including hosting our annual picnic in Eatonville for many years.
We were all happy for her and for being able to celebrate her special day.
Bruce
BUSINESS MEETING and ELECTION of 2019 OFFICERS
Date: Sunday, January 27, 2019
Place: Johnny’s at Fife Restaurant
Time: 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm
Agenda: Election of officers and any other club business
January Meeting Recap
The January meeting at Johnny’s in Fife was attended by a record 41 members, including two new members. We also have a second couple who joined the club, but weren’t at the meeting. Our thanks to Morris and Gayle Krause for making the arrangements, and to the wait staff who did a great job delivering our meals quickly and correctly – with the exception of Mr. Cliff, whose meal didn’t get made by the chef. The mistake was caught quickly by our waitress, and he finished eating the same time as I did.
The meeting went by quickly, with a short discussion from International by Cathy, explaining the newest topic there, of including the new retro T-birds. The International officers have agreed to take this decision before the general membership, so watch your mail and/or emails for this important vote. We recapped the monthly events. February’s Mustang garage tour has been postponed due to a death in the family. March’s event will be to the Olympic Game Farm the weekend of March 23-24th. Also handled quickly was the election of officers.
The Allstrom award was presented to Michael Hall, who told me afterwards that he had just traded display cases with wife Bonnie since he was running out of space in his. Good timing, Mike.
Great friends, great food, fun memories. Thank you all for coming.
Vickie
The January meeting at Johnny’s in Fife was attended by a record 41 members, including two new members. We also have a second couple who joined the club, but weren’t at the meeting. Our thanks to Morris and Gayle Krause for making the arrangements, and to the wait staff who did a great job delivering our meals quickly and correctly – with the exception of Mr. Cliff, whose meal didn’t get made by the chef. The mistake was caught quickly by our waitress, and he finished eating the same time as I did.
The meeting went by quickly, with a short discussion from International by Cathy, explaining the newest topic there, of including the new retro T-birds. The International officers have agreed to take this decision before the general membership, so watch your mail and/or emails for this important vote. We recapped the monthly events. February’s Mustang garage tour has been postponed due to a death in the family. March’s event will be to the Olympic Game Farm the weekend of March 23-24th. Also handled quickly was the election of officers.
The Allstrom award was presented to Michael Hall, who told me afterwards that he had just traded display cases with wife Bonnie since he was running out of space in his. Good timing, Mike.
Great friends, great food, fun memories. Thank you all for coming.
Vickie
Our Olympic Club’s
ANNUAL HOLIDAY CHRISTMAS PARTY
WHEN: Saturday, December 15, 201
WHERE: Mitzel’s American Kitchen
22330 84th Ave. S., Kent, WA 98032
CHRISTMAS IN KENT FINDS FOOD, FRIENDSHIP AND FUN!
On Saturday afternoon, December 15, close to 40 Olympic Club members enjoyed a wonderful Christmas holiday party at Mitzel’s restaurant in Kent. We had exclusive use of their banquet room and we were able to order on our own from a customized lunch menu. Positive comments were heard about the food. It was plentiful and reasonable, and our server did a super job, especially since she was flying solo most of the time. A few problems on our final bills were directly handled with courtesy. The size of the room for our group, unfortunately, was an issue. It was cramped and a bit difficult to maneuver, particularly during our gift exchange activity. A different location with larger space for next year is worth considering.
Early arrivals had a chance to meet, greet, and mingle. It was nice to visit with everyone, including folks we haven’t seen for a while. Among these were Carmen Allstrom, Martin and Diana Antrim, Jerry and Becky Cline, Jim and Thais Evans, and Doug and Patty Wanamaker. Special thanks and recognition go to Jerry and Becky who defied the potential of snowy conditions over the pass to attend from their home in Chelan. The reindeer and sleigh that were parked outside the restaurant was likely their ride to this event. And speaking of nice rides, Nancy Burress arrived in fine style driving her beautiful classic Corvette. We all hoped she had brought this car to include it as part of our gift exchange. For some reason, she ignored our hints.
While waiting for our food orders, the group took part in guessing how many mints there were in a large glass canister. First prize was a $50 Costco gift card, and second prize was the mint-filled canister itself. Gayle Krause won first prize and Morris Krause was a close second. Good guessing, you two, and Merry Christmas! Our gift exchange is always filled with fun, frustration, and surprises. There were a number of quality items this year including a Jim Shore Christmas platter, stuffed animals and characters, smoked salmon, fine wines and brews, and a hand-crafted, framed photo collage created by member Thais Davis-Evans. How neat! Diana Antrim and Becky Cline shared the honor of having the most gifts stolen from them, and they certainly gained experience unwrapping presents. Dan DelDucca was seated nearby and adorned himself with some of the cast-off ribbons and bows. He looked pretty good as a living Christmas ornament.
Our request asking for contributions to the Marine Corps’ Toys for Tots campaign was answered in a big way. This is a heart-felt gesture by our members, bringing happiness and joy to the needy children who receive them. We also want to extend a special thank you to our co-hosts, Michael and Bonnie, for the extra effort they put in with planning, set-up, and decorations. They are a pleasure to work with and life-long friends.
May the joy and laughter we shared at this event continue throughout the coming year.
Van and Lynn
BUSINESS AND PLANNING MEETING FOR OUR 2019 EVENTS
AND AWARDS CEREMONY
Date: Sunday, November 18, 2018
Place: Frank & Cathy Stubbs
The tradition continues to hold the Olympic Club’s annual calendar of events planning meeting at Frank & Cathy’s home. We all very much appreciate their gracious hospitality. A heart felt “Thank You” from each and every one of us.
Frank and Cathy have been busy working on new displays for their collectibles and rearranging their garages and invited anyone interested to view their collections. A large group took advantage of this opportunity before the meeting started and again after the meeting and pot luck. A truly amazing collection and a wonderful display.
Once the group finished mingling and viewing they filled the chairs downstairs when President Vickie Willson called the meeting to order. We had a full agenda to get through including a brief awards ceremony, voting on a by-law change, and making choices for next year’s calendar of events.
The CTCI International Convention will be held in Flagstaff AZ, in May and the club voted to donate $500 to their committee to help with their start up expenses. It looks like we may have about 6 cars making the trip in their T-Birds in an effort to win the Ford Johnson Memorial Trophy.
Frank awarded Longevity pins to those in attendance who had earned them. The Allstrom All-Star Award, was initiated to recognize a member who has provided some sort of special or outstanding service to our club during the past year and is voted on by the executive board. This plaque will be presented at the Christmas
party.
Chuck Birch headed up the challenging job of guiding the members through the process of filling up our Calendar of Events for the coming year. The schedule includes the possibility of a couple of overnight trips and a good variety of local events some new and some we have done in the past. There were even some left over ideas that can be used for next year’s calendar. Thanks to all members to submitted and/or volunteered to host an outing.
The meeting was adjourned so we could all enjoy another outstanding Olympic potluck. What a great variety of delicious food we all had to choose from.
Frank and Cathy have been busy working on new displays for their collectibles and rearranging their garages and invited anyone interested to view their collections. A large group took advantage of this opportunity before the meeting started and again after the meeting and pot luck. A truly amazing collection and a wonderful display.
Once the group finished mingling and viewing they filled the chairs downstairs when President Vickie Willson called the meeting to order. We had a full agenda to get through including a brief awards ceremony, voting on a by-law change, and making choices for next year’s calendar of events.
The CTCI International Convention will be held in Flagstaff AZ, in May and the club voted to donate $500 to their committee to help with their start up expenses. It looks like we may have about 6 cars making the trip in their T-Birds in an effort to win the Ford Johnson Memorial Trophy.
Frank awarded Longevity pins to those in attendance who had earned them. The Allstrom All-Star Award, was initiated to recognize a member who has provided some sort of special or outstanding service to our club during the past year and is voted on by the executive board. This plaque will be presented at the Christmas
party.
Chuck Birch headed up the challenging job of guiding the members through the process of filling up our Calendar of Events for the coming year. The schedule includes the possibility of a couple of overnight trips and a good variety of local events some new and some we have done in the past. There were even some left over ideas that can be used for next year’s calendar. Thanks to all members to submitted and/or volunteered to host an outing.
The meeting was adjourned so we could all enjoy another outstanding Olympic potluck. What a great variety of delicious food we all had to choose from.
Preliminary 2019 Event List - Dates and some hosts needed.
OCTC 2019 Events
DATE DAY EVENT LOCATION HOST
01/27/2019 Sunday Bisiness Meeting – Johnny’s at Fife Morris & Gayle Krause Election of Officers
February Garage Tours Frank Stubbs
March Olympic Game Farm Sequim WA Vickie Willson Possible Overnight with a Garage Tour
April Leavenworth Fish Leavenworth WA Chuck & Julie Birch Hatchery Possible Overnight
May Open for club event Host Needed
06/22-23/19 Sat – Sun Stanwood Car Show Stanwood WA Nancy Burress Overnight
July Saturday T-Bird Club Picnic Mt. Vernon WA Nancy Burress
August Chinook Drive to Enumclaw WA Host Needed
Enumclaw
09/27/19 Friday Oil Refinery Tour Mel & Linda Lang
October Treehouse Point Tour Fall City WA Vickie Willson
11/24/19 Sunday Business Meeting - Newcastle WA Frank & Cathy Stubbs 2020 Calendar Planning
December Christmas Party Host Needed
2019 Other T-Bird Events
05/15–19/19 Wed – Sun CTCI Regional Convention Flagstaff AZ. CTCI
05/24-30/19 Fri – Thur Kelowna Show & 3 Day Tour Kelowna BC Totem T-Bird Club
OCTC 2019 Events
DATE DAY EVENT LOCATION HOST
01/27/2019 Sunday Bisiness Meeting – Johnny’s at Fife Morris & Gayle Krause Election of Officers
February Garage Tours Frank Stubbs
March Olympic Game Farm Sequim WA Vickie Willson Possible Overnight with a Garage Tour
April Leavenworth Fish Leavenworth WA Chuck & Julie Birch Hatchery Possible Overnight
May Open for club event Host Needed
06/22-23/19 Sat – Sun Stanwood Car Show Stanwood WA Nancy Burress Overnight
July Saturday T-Bird Club Picnic Mt. Vernon WA Nancy Burress
August Chinook Drive to Enumclaw WA Host Needed
Enumclaw
09/27/19 Friday Oil Refinery Tour Mel & Linda Lang
October Treehouse Point Tour Fall City WA Vickie Willson
11/24/19 Sunday Business Meeting - Newcastle WA Frank & Cathy Stubbs 2020 Calendar Planning
December Christmas Party Host Needed
2019 Other T-Bird Events
05/15–19/19 Wed – Sun CTCI Regional Convention Flagstaff AZ. CTCI
05/24-30/19 Fri – Thur Kelowna Show & 3 Day Tour Kelowna BC Totem T-Bird Club
Minutes are posted in the "Members Only" section
NORDIC MUSEUM
October 21st, 2018, 10:00 AM
2655 NW Market St. Seattle, Wa (Ballard) 98107
The tour of the New Nordic Museum was well attended with twenty eight breaving the fog to drive to Ballard. The building itself has been written up in architectural magazines and there is a lot to see.We were fortunate to see a newly installed temporary exhibit “The Vikings Begin” with actual artifacts from the 6th and 7th century from burial grounds in Uppsala Sweden. Several members commented on seeing this talked about on television.
Pictures of descendants with Finnish immigrants and Native Americans was also on display. Upstairs there were many displays from the Museums collection. Some of the exhibits are related to Susan Hanson’s father and his contribution to the fishing industry.
After touring for two hours everyone agreed that there was a lot to see and they hoped to return some day for another look.
With the sun finally coming out, Jon gave everyone directions on how to get to the Bay Cafe at Fisherman’s terminal and we headed for one of our favorite things to do on a tour, eat. We were given a private room and the service was pretty good seeing as we only had one waitress. We did not hear any complaints about the food which is a good sign. New members Janice Westfall and her son Phill Westfall were introduced along with Donna Wisenburg’s friend Patty. Ron Perrone was there as well and he loves the ’56 T-Bird he bought from Jon. He plans on taking a three week trip next summer along route 66. Mike Hall brought a box of calendars with club cars shown which was really neat. They are selling for $15.00 and a good way for the club to raise money. They would be a great Christmas gift.
Vicky reminded all of the business meeting in November and the Christmas Party in December. Kathy suggested calling CTCI if you did not get your ballot to vote in their current elections. Janice Westfall won the birthday lotto given to one attendee. She beat our Susan Hanson by one day. Congratulations Janice.
It is always special when we connect with club members. Thanks to everyone for coming.
Jon and Susan Hanson
A good day at the museum, I had two extra orange “Viking Begins Exhibit” stickers left, so I told Lindsay at the counter to give them to some one that need them.
This made my day:
Dear Jon and Susan,
I wanted to thank you personally for your generous gift this last weekend! Jon gave me permission to gift the two extra tickets from your group to anyone I felt deserved them later in the day.
A few hours after your group left, a father and son came in to the museum. They were worried about their budget, and so chose not to go through the Viking exhibit because of the extra $5 admission. I tried to run the father’s credit card for general admission, but it was sadly declined. They looked disappointed, and started walking away.
It was just then I remembered Jon’s gift! I ran after them and told them I could get them in. They were delighted! And when I handed them the orange Viking Begins Exhibit stick er, they were so happy, they couldn’t believe it!
They ended up spending the whole afternoon in the museum, and I saw they were
completely engaged in the exhibits.
It really touched my heart that they were so grateful for your kindness, and I wanted to share with you some of the joy that you brought to them.
Thank you so very much for being such a great representative of our members, and for being so generous!
Sincerely,
Lindsay Ravensong,
Guest Services
Nordic Museum
Pictures of descendants with Finnish immigrants and Native Americans was also on display. Upstairs there were many displays from the Museums collection. Some of the exhibits are related to Susan Hanson’s father and his contribution to the fishing industry.
After touring for two hours everyone agreed that there was a lot to see and they hoped to return some day for another look.
With the sun finally coming out, Jon gave everyone directions on how to get to the Bay Cafe at Fisherman’s terminal and we headed for one of our favorite things to do on a tour, eat. We were given a private room and the service was pretty good seeing as we only had one waitress. We did not hear any complaints about the food which is a good sign. New members Janice Westfall and her son Phill Westfall were introduced along with Donna Wisenburg’s friend Patty. Ron Perrone was there as well and he loves the ’56 T-Bird he bought from Jon. He plans on taking a three week trip next summer along route 66. Mike Hall brought a box of calendars with club cars shown which was really neat. They are selling for $15.00 and a good way for the club to raise money. They would be a great Christmas gift.
Vicky reminded all of the business meeting in November and the Christmas Party in December. Kathy suggested calling CTCI if you did not get your ballot to vote in their current elections. Janice Westfall won the birthday lotto given to one attendee. She beat our Susan Hanson by one day. Congratulations Janice.
It is always special when we connect with club members. Thanks to everyone for coming.
Jon and Susan Hanson
A good day at the museum, I had two extra orange “Viking Begins Exhibit” stickers left, so I told Lindsay at the counter to give them to some one that need them.
This made my day:
Dear Jon and Susan,
I wanted to thank you personally for your generous gift this last weekend! Jon gave me permission to gift the two extra tickets from your group to anyone I felt deserved them later in the day.
A few hours after your group left, a father and son came in to the museum. They were worried about their budget, and so chose not to go through the Viking exhibit because of the extra $5 admission. I tried to run the father’s credit card for general admission, but it was sadly declined. They looked disappointed, and started walking away.
It was just then I remembered Jon’s gift! I ran after them and told them I could get them in. They were delighted! And when I handed them the orange Viking Begins Exhibit stick er, they were so happy, they couldn’t believe it!
They ended up spending the whole afternoon in the museum, and I saw they were
completely engaged in the exhibits.
It really touched my heart that they were so grateful for your kindness, and I wanted to share with you some of the joy that you brought to them.
Thank you so very much for being such a great representative of our members, and for being so generous!
Sincerely,
Lindsay Ravensong,
Guest Services
Nordic Museum
LAKE CHELAN WEEKEND CAR SHOW
SEPTEMBER 7-8, 2018
Friday - Saturday
It was a dark and stormy night – no, that’s a different story completely. It was a wonderfully sunny morning as two separate groups left Western Washington, headed for the east side. The southern group met at the Pancake House on top of Snoqualmie Pass for breakfast. Sharing tables together were Larry and Emily Muir, Jim and Joanne Hendry, Bruce Eardley and Vickie Willson, Mike and Bonnie Hall, and Ron and Beth Bunn. We were delighted to be joined by Tony and Eve Dilores in her Jeep Cherokee, towing his motorcycle behind. They were able to spend the weekend with us, and then headed south, to Arizona, directly from Chelan. The northern group consisting of Clark and Wilma Hamm, Nancy Burress and her friend, and Gary and Sherral Lane took Stevens Pass. Both groups met up at the 59’er Dinner in Cashmere. While some had an early lunch, others settled for their amazing milkshakes, even buying a few to donate to fire fighters working the local blazes. Donna Weisenburg and her friend drove over Thursday and met up with us Friday.
Friday dinner was a BBQ at the Miller’s Lake Chelan Auto Museum in Chelan which was open to anyone participating in the car show the following day. We all enjoyed the chicken and prime rib dinner and a tour of the museum’s three buildings of cars and automobilia including several one-of-a-kind vehicles. Saturday’s car show was in downtown Chelan in a city park right alongside of the river. It was a beautiful setting crowded with cars of every year, make and model. Jerry and Becky Cline, our hosts for the weekend, were able to spend some time with us but were also very busy helping to run the show. They and the local club did a wonderful job and we all enjoyed the day. Meals were available at several restaurants and sub shops within walking distance. Along with the cars there were many raffle items including bottles of the local wine and a small kayak which Nancy had her heart set on, but didn’t win. We all joked with Nancy as to exactly how she planned on getting the kayak into her ’57 bird – perhaps open the back window and stick it out through the hole??
The awards at the show were a simple “sweet sixteen” of the local club’s favorite sixteen vehicles. I’m pleased to report that our group of nine vehicles came home with two awards – Jim and Joanne Hendry in their ’53 Mercury and Nancy Burress in her ’57 T-bird. Congrats to you both.
After the show we all caravanned to Buddy’s in Manson for dinner and were able to enjoy more time with Jerry and Becky. The restaurant was a bit confused in their ordering and billing, in part due to new owners who weren’t prepared for us, but the patio that we had mostly to ourselves gave everyone a chance to chat and get a bit rowdy as a great end to a great day.
Sunday morning saw everyone heading home at their own schedule with Bruce, Vickie and the Muirs heading to the Blueberry Hills farm for breakfast and leaving there with five pies for themselves, the Halls and the Hendrys. And of course, there was a stop at the 59’er Diner again for another milkshake where Nancy and Donna showed up to join us for their late breakfast. How fun that we kept taking separate paths and running into each other.
We sadly had to bid farewell and safe journey to Tony and Eve as they headed back to Arizona. Good to see them again, and sad to say goodbye again.
What a great weekend, and thanks go out to Jerry and Becky for suggesting this event and hosting it for us. We don’t get to see them often but this once-a-year trip will surely be repeated next year, and we’ll try to see if we can get them over to the west side at least once during the next year also.
Vickie
Friday dinner was a BBQ at the Miller’s Lake Chelan Auto Museum in Chelan which was open to anyone participating in the car show the following day. We all enjoyed the chicken and prime rib dinner and a tour of the museum’s three buildings of cars and automobilia including several one-of-a-kind vehicles. Saturday’s car show was in downtown Chelan in a city park right alongside of the river. It was a beautiful setting crowded with cars of every year, make and model. Jerry and Becky Cline, our hosts for the weekend, were able to spend some time with us but were also very busy helping to run the show. They and the local club did a wonderful job and we all enjoyed the day. Meals were available at several restaurants and sub shops within walking distance. Along with the cars there were many raffle items including bottles of the local wine and a small kayak which Nancy had her heart set on, but didn’t win. We all joked with Nancy as to exactly how she planned on getting the kayak into her ’57 bird – perhaps open the back window and stick it out through the hole??
The awards at the show were a simple “sweet sixteen” of the local club’s favorite sixteen vehicles. I’m pleased to report that our group of nine vehicles came home with two awards – Jim and Joanne Hendry in their ’53 Mercury and Nancy Burress in her ’57 T-bird. Congrats to you both.
After the show we all caravanned to Buddy’s in Manson for dinner and were able to enjoy more time with Jerry and Becky. The restaurant was a bit confused in their ordering and billing, in part due to new owners who weren’t prepared for us, but the patio that we had mostly to ourselves gave everyone a chance to chat and get a bit rowdy as a great end to a great day.
Sunday morning saw everyone heading home at their own schedule with Bruce, Vickie and the Muirs heading to the Blueberry Hills farm for breakfast and leaving there with five pies for themselves, the Halls and the Hendrys. And of course, there was a stop at the 59’er Diner again for another milkshake where Nancy and Donna showed up to join us for their late breakfast. How fun that we kept taking separate paths and running into each other.
We sadly had to bid farewell and safe journey to Tony and Eve as they headed back to Arizona. Good to see them again, and sad to say goodbye again.
What a great weekend, and thanks go out to Jerry and Becky for suggesting this event and hosting it for us. We don’t get to see them often but this once-a-year trip will surely be repeated next year, and we’ll try to see if we can get them over to the west side at least once during the next year also.
Vickie
Seattle City Light
Diablo Lake & Lunch Tour
Sunday, August 26th
The day of our Diablo Tour turned out to be drizzly, but still 17 t-birders turned out for a pretty drive up Hwy 20 and across the top of the dam.
After checking in with Ranger Todd and receiving our badges, we were given an orientation. Then on to the boat dock, where we boarded the Alice Ross IV a new boat designed just for the tour. The cabin is enclosed with lots of windows and a glass roof, which was perfect for the weather. The water is a lovely aqua blue and the scenery amazing.
The ranger and his assistant shared a lot of history and facts about the dam and area. The boat docked at the power house and we were all supplied with lovely yellow hard hats for a special tour through the power house. The foreman on duty was our guide and explained how power is generated. It was quite an experience to stand at the base of Ross Dam and look straight up.
Our boat ride back to the dock for lunch was very enjoyable. We were served salad, soup, bread, pizza and cookies. Mel was able to hold a brief meeting to discuss up coming events. We then headed back down and on our separate ways home.
After checking in with Ranger Todd and receiving our badges, we were given an orientation. Then on to the boat dock, where we boarded the Alice Ross IV a new boat designed just for the tour. The cabin is enclosed with lots of windows and a glass roof, which was perfect for the weather. The water is a lovely aqua blue and the scenery amazing.
The ranger and his assistant shared a lot of history and facts about the dam and area. The boat docked at the power house and we were all supplied with lovely yellow hard hats for a special tour through the power house. The foreman on duty was our guide and explained how power is generated. It was quite an experience to stand at the base of Ross Dam and look straight up.
Our boat ride back to the dock for lunch was very enjoyable. We were served salad, soup, bread, pizza and cookies. Mel was able to hold a brief meeting to discuss up coming events. We then headed back down and on our separate ways home.
CTCI International Convention
Knoxville, Tennessee
August 15 - 19, 2018
The Smoky Mountain Classic Thunderbird Club did an excellent job hosting this event in their bright orange shirts. The hotel was located on the trolley line and only a couple blocks from downtown, so lots of options for places to eat.
The convention center was across the street accommodating the indoor concourse, vendors, the hospitality room and meeting rooms.
The first driving tour followed Thunder Road made famous by the moonshiners running their white lightening with a stop at the Bush Bean plant for lunch and a tour of the museum.
The welcome party included a buffet with barbequed sandwiches and all the fixings
.
On the second day the gals were able to attend a fashion show and luncheon up town in a high rise with a wonderful city view. The models were local club members and the clothes from Chico’s. Later that afternoon 6 bus loads of convention attendees headed to Dollywood to enjoy dinner and a very entertaining show.
Friday morning began with the indoor concourse, all the cars looked stunning under the lights and on the shinny floor. That evening we enjoyed D.J. oldies music for listening and dancing along with food truck eats.
The next morning the swap meet was a little rainy. The driving tour and lunch went along the scenic Smokey Mountains.
The grand finally was of course the awards banquet.
The two Olympic Club driven cars won awards: Stubbs green ’57, most popular display car and Hamm’s black ’55, longest distance and 1st in expanded touring.
It is always a fun time seeing all the different T-birds, doing the events, meeting with the people and friends from all over the United States and countries abroad.
Clarke & Wilma
The convention center was across the street accommodating the indoor concourse, vendors, the hospitality room and meeting rooms.
The first driving tour followed Thunder Road made famous by the moonshiners running their white lightening with a stop at the Bush Bean plant for lunch and a tour of the museum.
The welcome party included a buffet with barbequed sandwiches and all the fixings
.
On the second day the gals were able to attend a fashion show and luncheon up town in a high rise with a wonderful city view. The models were local club members and the clothes from Chico’s. Later that afternoon 6 bus loads of convention attendees headed to Dollywood to enjoy dinner and a very entertaining show.
Friday morning began with the indoor concourse, all the cars looked stunning under the lights and on the shinny floor. That evening we enjoyed D.J. oldies music for listening and dancing along with food truck eats.
The next morning the swap meet was a little rainy. The driving tour and lunch went along the scenic Smokey Mountains.
The grand finally was of course the awards banquet.
The two Olympic Club driven cars won awards: Stubbs green ’57, most popular display car and Hamm’s black ’55, longest distance and 1st in expanded touring.
It is always a fun time seeing all the different T-birds, doing the events, meeting with the people and friends from all over the United States and countries abroad.
Clarke & Wilma
39th Annual All Thunderbird Picnic
GLACIER VIEW PARK, Eatonville, WA
Saturday, July 14, 2015 Time: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
&
11th ANNUAL “Tour dé Picnic” Saturday July 14, 2018
We picked a perfect weather day for our tour and picnic. Abundant sunshine and comfortable temperature (a little warm for some by days end) were perfect for the driving tour to the picnic. As usual we met at Starbucks on Grady Way in Renton to begin our tour. Those meeting there included Bruce & Vickie (once again leading the tour), Dan & Fran Del Duca, Jim & Joanne Hendry, Clarke & Wilma Hamm, and Emily Muir, (Larry went to pick up Betty and will meet met us at the picnic). We left promptly at 9:00am to follow the scenic back roads through Renton, Maple Valley, Ravensdale, Cumberland, Enumclaw, and into Buckley to our first stop at Wallys. We meet up with Jamie & Dee Joswick, and Doug & Patty Wanamaker (Doug & Patty could not attend the picnic because they had to pick up people at the airport but wanted to say Hi) This is always a very important stop on our tour as we all headed for the restrooms. While waiting and talking to each other in the parking lot, many of Wally’s customers stopped to admire the T-bird gathering and take pictures. After we gathered ourselves together we headed off for more scenic roads to Eatonville for our picnic.
In Eatonville we were joined by Frank & Kyle Stubbs, Jon & Susan Hanson, Jean Cournoyer, Chuck & Julie Birch (Chuck had to leave early but Julie stayed and got a ride home with Emily in her cute Miata), Cathy Stubbs came with Carmen Allstrom. Our group was smaller than previous picnics, we always look forward to enjoying this time with as many people as possible, but it still turned out really well with a great mix of beautiful cars and a delicious variety of potluck choices. Our hosts, Rosemarie VanCleve and Morris and Gayle Krause, did their usual super job with all the pre-picnic preparations, setting it up, and having it run smoothly. Thank you for these extra efforts.
Thanks to all that attended and enjoyed the tour and picnic.
Bruce & Vickie
In Eatonville we were joined by Frank & Kyle Stubbs, Jon & Susan Hanson, Jean Cournoyer, Chuck & Julie Birch (Chuck had to leave early but Julie stayed and got a ride home with Emily in her cute Miata), Cathy Stubbs came with Carmen Allstrom. Our group was smaller than previous picnics, we always look forward to enjoying this time with as many people as possible, but it still turned out really well with a great mix of beautiful cars and a delicious variety of potluck choices. Our hosts, Rosemarie VanCleve and Morris and Gayle Krause, did their usual super job with all the pre-picnic preparations, setting it up, and having it run smoothly. Thank you for these extra efforts.
Thanks to all that attended and enjoyed the tour and picnic.
Bruce & Vickie
Driving Tour of Camano Island
&
Poker Run
Sunday June 10, 2018
We gathered at the rest area at exit 206 at 11:00am and 21 of us with five Classic Birds, one Retro Bird, and one Mustang the rest in daily drivers (it was rainy day) left around 11:30. We got on I5 North to exit 208 and followed the Pacific Hwy thru the farm land into Stanwood and out to Camano Island.
Our first stop was lunch at The Rockaway Restaurant where we picked up our guests Gary and Sherral Lane in their 64 T-bird Conv. After lunch we were dealt the first card for the poker run and started our Historic tour of some of the older buildings on the Island.
Our next stop, after a scenic drive, was at the Camano City School Built 1906. There we got the second card.
Then we headed for the next stop the South Camano Grange built 1930 and were dealt the 3rd card.
On the road again to the next stop, the Mabana school built 1916. There we got the 4th card. There the owners rang the bell in the bell tower.
From there I let Gary lead to their place in the Country Club and show us his collection of old cars. That was the surprise ending of the tour and got the 5th card.
The winning hand was 2 pair, Aces and Kings. The prize was Mothers Chrome Polish and won by Cynthia Willman.
Thanks to all who came out on a cloudy and rainy day. It was another great turnout by our OCTC members.
Mel & Linda Lang
Our first stop was lunch at The Rockaway Restaurant where we picked up our guests Gary and Sherral Lane in their 64 T-bird Conv. After lunch we were dealt the first card for the poker run and started our Historic tour of some of the older buildings on the Island.
Our next stop, after a scenic drive, was at the Camano City School Built 1906. There we got the second card.
Then we headed for the next stop the South Camano Grange built 1930 and were dealt the 3rd card.
On the road again to the next stop, the Mabana school built 1916. There we got the 4th card. There the owners rang the bell in the bell tower.
From there I let Gary lead to their place in the Country Club and show us his collection of old cars. That was the surprise ending of the tour and got the 5th card.
The winning hand was 2 pair, Aces and Kings. The prize was Mothers Chrome Polish and won by Cynthia Willman.
Thanks to all who came out on a cloudy and rainy day. It was another great turnout by our OCTC members.
Mel & Linda Lang
Tour of Mario Pipkin’s Collection and Lunch
When: Sunday May 20, 2018
We had a great day with 24 people and 10 T-Birds showing up for this event. We met at the Yankee Grill in Renton just off I405 on S. Grady. They extended their Breakfast Buffet for our enjoyment as well as their full menu for those that wanted to order.
After brunch we caravanned a short distance to the building that contains Mario Pitkin’s fabulous collection. A few years ago we visited Mario’s collection, since that visit he has moved to a larger building and added more cars. It was great to see how it has grown and how much room he has, we are sure it won't be long before it fills up. Mario gave us a tour of his cars and enjoyed telling stories about them and how they were acquired.
When we were done at Mario’s, Frank and Cathy Stubbs invited us to their place to see their collection of cars and memorabilia. They had snacks and drinks set out for us.
It was a great day spent with great people and we all celebrated National Thunderbird Appreciation Day, with the ability to Drive and Show our T-Birds!!
After brunch we caravanned a short distance to the building that contains Mario Pitkin’s fabulous collection. A few years ago we visited Mario’s collection, since that visit he has moved to a larger building and added more cars. It was great to see how it has grown and how much room he has, we are sure it won't be long before it fills up. Mario gave us a tour of his cars and enjoyed telling stories about them and how they were acquired.
When we were done at Mario’s, Frank and Cathy Stubbs invited us to their place to see their collection of cars and memorabilia. They had snacks and drinks set out for us.
It was a great day spent with great people and we all celebrated National Thunderbird Appreciation Day, with the ability to Drive and Show our T-Birds!!
Brunch at the Yankee Grill
Mario’s Collection
At Frank & Cathy Stubbs
Kelowna show & Shine
And
3 Day Tour
Kelowna & Osoyoos
British Columbia, Canada
May 25 - 30 2018
There were 6 Olympic Club members attending this years Kelowna event. The 5 Members that met at the 76 gas station in Conway WA. were Clarke & Wilma Hamm, Nancy Burress, Frank & Cathy Stubbs, Jim & Joanne Hendry, Bruce Eardley & Vickie Willson. The 6th member of our group, Jerry & Becky Klein met us in Kelowna. We had one ’55 and five ’57’s.
The weather was perfect for the entire trip. Friday was the meet & greet for participants arriving in T-Birds from 1955 through 2005. Saturday the show & shine on the grass field along the banks of Okanagan Lake featured 60 gleaming T-Birds all parked in year order. After the car show on the way back to the hotel there was an optional wine tour. The awards banquet included a slide show, raffle prizes, a 50/50 drawing and a delicious buffet. Clarke & Wilma won 2nd place in their class, Jerry & Becky Klein won 2nd place in their class and Cathy & Frank Stubbs won 1st place in their class. Congratulations to all.
Sunday the 40 cars going on the extended tour to Osoyoos enjoyed a beautiful drive to our lunch stop at Dirty Laundry Winery. Jerry & Becky’s ’57 was having some problems and then at the same time they got a call that there was a brush fire right up to their home. Thanks to Frank, Clarke and Jason (the youngest attendee from Alberta) the ’57 was soon running again and the fire was put out before getting to the Klein’s home, all is well again. Next stop Tickleberry’s Ice Cream, just as we arrived the rest of the group was leaving. On the road again, our group of 4 cars came upon a dead ’64, he had called a tow truck so we waited with him. Arriving at our hotel in time to check in and attend the buffet, which includes a Canadian golf putting contest. Our rooms at the Walnut beach Resort were condos right next to the overflowing lake.
Monday morning’s tour was to Ken Helm’s collection of old autos some rusting away and a few in running order, along with a lot of small buildings and other collections. Lunch at the golf course and an afternoon wine tour or pool time rounded out the day. At the dinner buffet more, Canadian humor and games with someone winning $50.
Tuesday our first stop was a truly amazing model railway museum set up with every imaginable tiny scene. Hope you are still reading this because the highlight of the trip was our very last stop at “Area 27”, a private 3-mile race track that included ups & downs & turns. We were told the minimum buy in for membership to this track was $30,000 and it is limited to 300 members and they now have a waiting list. The t-birds were divided into three groups and got to go out on the track following a pace car for three laps. Then anyone wanting to go “Fast” had another chance to do a few more laps. Back at the resort for dinner and games, the $50 was won by Cathy; but the conversation was all about driving on that track.
Wednesday, we crossed the border and headed our separate ways home.
HUGE thank you to our Canadian friends who work so hard to put together an outstanding event year after year.
Clarke & Wilma
The weather was perfect for the entire trip. Friday was the meet & greet for participants arriving in T-Birds from 1955 through 2005. Saturday the show & shine on the grass field along the banks of Okanagan Lake featured 60 gleaming T-Birds all parked in year order. After the car show on the way back to the hotel there was an optional wine tour. The awards banquet included a slide show, raffle prizes, a 50/50 drawing and a delicious buffet. Clarke & Wilma won 2nd place in their class, Jerry & Becky Klein won 2nd place in their class and Cathy & Frank Stubbs won 1st place in their class. Congratulations to all.
Sunday the 40 cars going on the extended tour to Osoyoos enjoyed a beautiful drive to our lunch stop at Dirty Laundry Winery. Jerry & Becky’s ’57 was having some problems and then at the same time they got a call that there was a brush fire right up to their home. Thanks to Frank, Clarke and Jason (the youngest attendee from Alberta) the ’57 was soon running again and the fire was put out before getting to the Klein’s home, all is well again. Next stop Tickleberry’s Ice Cream, just as we arrived the rest of the group was leaving. On the road again, our group of 4 cars came upon a dead ’64, he had called a tow truck so we waited with him. Arriving at our hotel in time to check in and attend the buffet, which includes a Canadian golf putting contest. Our rooms at the Walnut beach Resort were condos right next to the overflowing lake.
Monday morning’s tour was to Ken Helm’s collection of old autos some rusting away and a few in running order, along with a lot of small buildings and other collections. Lunch at the golf course and an afternoon wine tour or pool time rounded out the day. At the dinner buffet more, Canadian humor and games with someone winning $50.
Tuesday our first stop was a truly amazing model railway museum set up with every imaginable tiny scene. Hope you are still reading this because the highlight of the trip was our very last stop at “Area 27”, a private 3-mile race track that included ups & downs & turns. We were told the minimum buy in for membership to this track was $30,000 and it is limited to 300 members and they now have a waiting list. The t-birds were divided into three groups and got to go out on the track following a pace car for three laps. Then anyone wanting to go “Fast” had another chance to do a few more laps. Back at the resort for dinner and games, the $50 was won by Cathy; but the conversation was all about driving on that track.
Wednesday, we crossed the border and headed our separate ways home.
HUGE thank you to our Canadian friends who work so hard to put together an outstanding event year after year.
Clarke & Wilma
Show & Shine
Awards Banquet
Ken Helms Collection
Model Railroad
Area ‘27’ Race Track
WASHINGTON STATE PATROL ACADEMY Tour
Shelton WA 98584
When: Wednesday, April 18, 2018
WSP ACADEMY TOUR WAS SIMPLY ARRESTING!
On Wednesday, April 18, we had a group of 23 law-abiding Olympic Club members take part in our guided tour of Washington State Patrol’s training academy in Shelton. By all accounts, this was a good turn-out for a rarely scheduled mid-week event. Adding to the success, we had a nice break in the weather, allowing several of us to arrive in classic T’bird style. Our tour was conducted by WSP Sergeant Kent Hitchings who introduced us to the State Patrol’s history, and then led us through various locations and highlights at the facility. His presentation was professional, interesting, and entertaining. We visited their water safety training tank, the outdoor firing range, a firearms judgment simulator, the cadets’ dormitories, their gym for tactical training, and the 2.7 mile long emergency vehicle training course. This was a classroom day for the cadets, so we didn’t get to see any activity on this driving track. However, Sgt. Hitchings did extend an invitation to our club members if we’d like to come back in May so we can experience this track first-hand as passengers being driven by their experienced instructors. Fasten those seat belts, this sounds like a WOW factor! I’ll be contacting him to find out more specifics if enough members are interested.
A couple of our members have personal ties to WSP. Nancy Burress has a son who was recently promoted to sergeant in the State Patrol. He’s been working the Seattle area of Interstate-5. It was nice to see that Nancy drove her beautiful silver-gray ‘57 to this event. Coming all the way from Mt. Vernon, I asked how it happened she just didn’t drive a Brand-X car? She told me she doesn’t own a Brand-X car. She has only this T’bird and a 1962 Corvette. Congrats, Nancy... Nice rides! Ron Karr’s brother-in-law had been a WSP Trooper some years ago. Photographs of all the Academy’s past graduating classes are posted on the wall. Ron was able to get a copy of the photo showing his brother-in-law as part of Class No. 30. A nice momento.
It was great to visit with some folks we haven’t seen for awhile, including Mike and Cathie Ball who just got back from Arizona, Jim Evans, Phil and Cheryl McCurdy, Larry and Emily Muir, and Les Willman.
At the conclusion of our tour we gathered for a group photo that was taken by Academy staff. Bruce Eardley said he would include the photo on our club’s Facebook page and also in this issue of the newsletter. Thanks Bruce. Following the photo, we caravaned to a nearby Denny’s restaurant for lunch. We enjoyed good food, good service, and good conversation. Seated as a group, it was convenient for President Vickie Willson to hold a short meeting. She thanked those attending and highlighted our upcoming events. Lynn and I also want to thank each of you for taking time out of your weekday schedules to join us for this tour. We now look forward to seeing everyone at Mario Pitkin’s super collection next month.
Van
On Wednesday, April 18, we had a group of 23 law-abiding Olympic Club members take part in our guided tour of Washington State Patrol’s training academy in Shelton. By all accounts, this was a good turn-out for a rarely scheduled mid-week event. Adding to the success, we had a nice break in the weather, allowing several of us to arrive in classic T’bird style. Our tour was conducted by WSP Sergeant Kent Hitchings who introduced us to the State Patrol’s history, and then led us through various locations and highlights at the facility. His presentation was professional, interesting, and entertaining. We visited their water safety training tank, the outdoor firing range, a firearms judgment simulator, the cadets’ dormitories, their gym for tactical training, and the 2.7 mile long emergency vehicle training course. This was a classroom day for the cadets, so we didn’t get to see any activity on this driving track. However, Sgt. Hitchings did extend an invitation to our club members if we’d like to come back in May so we can experience this track first-hand as passengers being driven by their experienced instructors. Fasten those seat belts, this sounds like a WOW factor! I’ll be contacting him to find out more specifics if enough members are interested.
A couple of our members have personal ties to WSP. Nancy Burress has a son who was recently promoted to sergeant in the State Patrol. He’s been working the Seattle area of Interstate-5. It was nice to see that Nancy drove her beautiful silver-gray ‘57 to this event. Coming all the way from Mt. Vernon, I asked how it happened she just didn’t drive a Brand-X car? She told me she doesn’t own a Brand-X car. She has only this T’bird and a 1962 Corvette. Congrats, Nancy... Nice rides! Ron Karr’s brother-in-law had been a WSP Trooper some years ago. Photographs of all the Academy’s past graduating classes are posted on the wall. Ron was able to get a copy of the photo showing his brother-in-law as part of Class No. 30. A nice momento.
It was great to visit with some folks we haven’t seen for awhile, including Mike and Cathie Ball who just got back from Arizona, Jim Evans, Phil and Cheryl McCurdy, Larry and Emily Muir, and Les Willman.
At the conclusion of our tour we gathered for a group photo that was taken by Academy staff. Bruce Eardley said he would include the photo on our club’s Facebook page and also in this issue of the newsletter. Thanks Bruce. Following the photo, we caravaned to a nearby Denny’s restaurant for lunch. We enjoyed good food, good service, and good conversation. Seated as a group, it was convenient for President Vickie Willson to hold a short meeting. She thanked those attending and highlighted our upcoming events. Lynn and I also want to thank each of you for taking time out of your weekday schedules to join us for this tour. We now look forward to seeing everyone at Mario Pitkin’s super collection next month.
Van
LeMay Family Collection Tour
Spanaway WA
Sunday 3/18/2018
Cars, Cars, and More Cars
Our March event was a tour of the LeMay Family Collection in Spanaway. The day started with an early lunch at the Black Bear Diner in Lakewood where our crowd of 37 people was so large we almost exceeded the capacity of their private dining room. It was so nice to see several members that aren’t able to attend our events regularly, including the Akers and Luhmans, and Ron Rietman. We hope to see them more often in the coming months. A brief business meeting was held to discuss a requested change to the bylaws. Please read the minutes taken by our Secretary Fran DelDuca for all of the details. The restaurant did a great job of getting our meals to us quickly and correctly despite the fact that our entire group was being handled by only one waitress with no support even to refill coffee cups and water glasses.
After the meal our 9 baby birds, DelDuca’s ’60 bird and several other vehicles caravanned over to the LeMay Family Collection site in Spanaway for our tour of the grounds at Marymount. We split into four groups in order to cover the grounds more easily, and our tour included over 500 cars and automobilia from the 1890’s forward, including the rare 1941 Tucker made famous by a recent movie documenting it’s history. I’ve heard people comment about Hot August Nights, that there’s such a thing as “too many cars to see”, and after over two hours of walking I think many of our group might have agreed to that sentiment about the LeMay collection.
Following our tour of Marymount we had an opportunity to sit amongst the cars while we rested our weary legs and enjoyed cookies provided by the club and ice cold water provided by LeMays. Then it was off to our next set of tours at Nancy LeMay’s private residence, now occupied by son Doug. Nancy’s house is described by those who know it as “a modest 5-bedroom house with a 300 car garage”. This site is where the more valuable and rare cars are kept, along with the muscle cars, fire engines and the salt/pepper shaker, model car, and doll collections. The T-birds were privileged to be able to park on the property while we toured the two-story buildings and climbed stairway after stairway to view even more amazing cars and a few large displays including a country store and a soda shop.
I think we all went home with car-overload, tired legs, and in need of a nice long nap. I sure did! Our thanks to everyone for attending. We hope you all enjoyed the day.
Vickie and Bruce
Our March event was a tour of the LeMay Family Collection in Spanaway. The day started with an early lunch at the Black Bear Diner in Lakewood where our crowd of 37 people was so large we almost exceeded the capacity of their private dining room. It was so nice to see several members that aren’t able to attend our events regularly, including the Akers and Luhmans, and Ron Rietman. We hope to see them more often in the coming months. A brief business meeting was held to discuss a requested change to the bylaws. Please read the minutes taken by our Secretary Fran DelDuca for all of the details. The restaurant did a great job of getting our meals to us quickly and correctly despite the fact that our entire group was being handled by only one waitress with no support even to refill coffee cups and water glasses.
After the meal our 9 baby birds, DelDuca’s ’60 bird and several other vehicles caravanned over to the LeMay Family Collection site in Spanaway for our tour of the grounds at Marymount. We split into four groups in order to cover the grounds more easily, and our tour included over 500 cars and automobilia from the 1890’s forward, including the rare 1941 Tucker made famous by a recent movie documenting it’s history. I’ve heard people comment about Hot August Nights, that there’s such a thing as “too many cars to see”, and after over two hours of walking I think many of our group might have agreed to that sentiment about the LeMay collection.
Following our tour of Marymount we had an opportunity to sit amongst the cars while we rested our weary legs and enjoyed cookies provided by the club and ice cold water provided by LeMays. Then it was off to our next set of tours at Nancy LeMay’s private residence, now occupied by son Doug. Nancy’s house is described by those who know it as “a modest 5-bedroom house with a 300 car garage”. This site is where the more valuable and rare cars are kept, along with the muscle cars, fire engines and the salt/pepper shaker, model car, and doll collections. The T-birds were privileged to be able to park on the property while we toured the two-story buildings and climbed stairway after stairway to view even more amazing cars and a few large displays including a country store and a soda shop.
I think we all went home with car-overload, tired legs, and in need of a nice long nap. I sure did! Our thanks to everyone for attending. We hope you all enjoyed the day.
Vickie and Bruce