LAST MONTH'S CLUB EVENT - January 2025
NEON-FUELED '56 T-BIRD IMPRESSES MEETING ATTENDEES
ATTENDEES
Thank you to all the members who took part in our recent business meeting and election of officers that was held on Sunday, January 26, at the home of Frank and Cathy Stubbs. We truly appreciate their on-going hospitality. Frank and Cathy are devoted to our Olympic Club, and their efforts over the years have been key to its success.
The meeting was attended by a nice blend of both newer and “seasoned” members, and it was also nice to visit with folks we haven't seen for awhile, including Ron and Beth Bunn and Larry Ostrom. Before the start of the actual meeting, Frank invited us out to see his latest acquisition in their storage/garage/display building. It was definitely worth the walk outside, even with the freezing weather conditions that day. As soon as we entered the building, we were treated to a large, beautiful, unique piece of artwork attached to the wall. It displays a detailed 1956 Thunderbird that was formed by using many tubes of neon lighting. Among the details are hashmarks, portholes, continental kit, and whitewalls. A very impressive work of art, and its size measures close to six feet long. Staying on the topic of impressive, let's talk about the vehicle that Cliff Holland drove to this event. It's a 1978/79 “Little Red Express” Dodge pick-up. Available only these two years, the Dodge factory pulled out all the stops putting together this limited eye-catching ride. Fun for sure, Mr. Cliff.
The meeting was called to order by President Vickie Willson at 1:15 p.m. It started with Treasurer Fran DelDuca providing us a positive report about our club's current finances and accounts. It deserves mention that Fran has given our club several years of dedicated service on the Executive Board, both as Treasurer and as Secretary. We are grateful for her continuing support and active participation. The main purpose of this meeting was to elect new officers for 2025. The slate of candidates that was presented for a vote included the following. President: Ron Bunn; Vice President: Michael Hall; Secretary: Sue Luhman; Treasurer: Vickie Willson; Trustees: Chuck Birch, Julie Birch, Nancy Burress, and Ward Luhman. This group was elected by unanimous approval. A sincere thank you to these members for volunteering to fill the needed positions. And heartfelt appreciation to the outgoing officers, Fran DelDuca and Frank Stubbs, for their volunteer efforts.
As the meeting adjourned, our attention turned to the array of tasty potluck choices that's always a feast for our eyes and our bellies. A day filled with great food, a productive meeting, and a gathering of fun “classic” friends made this a wonderful start to our Olympic Club year. Let's keep these good times rolling.
Van
The meeting was attended by a nice blend of both newer and “seasoned” members, and it was also nice to visit with folks we haven't seen for awhile, including Ron and Beth Bunn and Larry Ostrom. Before the start of the actual meeting, Frank invited us out to see his latest acquisition in their storage/garage/display building. It was definitely worth the walk outside, even with the freezing weather conditions that day. As soon as we entered the building, we were treated to a large, beautiful, unique piece of artwork attached to the wall. It displays a detailed 1956 Thunderbird that was formed by using many tubes of neon lighting. Among the details are hashmarks, portholes, continental kit, and whitewalls. A very impressive work of art, and its size measures close to six feet long. Staying on the topic of impressive, let's talk about the vehicle that Cliff Holland drove to this event. It's a 1978/79 “Little Red Express” Dodge pick-up. Available only these two years, the Dodge factory pulled out all the stops putting together this limited eye-catching ride. Fun for sure, Mr. Cliff.
The meeting was called to order by President Vickie Willson at 1:15 p.m. It started with Treasurer Fran DelDuca providing us a positive report about our club's current finances and accounts. It deserves mention that Fran has given our club several years of dedicated service on the Executive Board, both as Treasurer and as Secretary. We are grateful for her continuing support and active participation. The main purpose of this meeting was to elect new officers for 2025. The slate of candidates that was presented for a vote included the following. President: Ron Bunn; Vice President: Michael Hall; Secretary: Sue Luhman; Treasurer: Vickie Willson; Trustees: Chuck Birch, Julie Birch, Nancy Burress, and Ward Luhman. This group was elected by unanimous approval. A sincere thank you to these members for volunteering to fill the needed positions. And heartfelt appreciation to the outgoing officers, Fran DelDuca and Frank Stubbs, for their volunteer efforts.
As the meeting adjourned, our attention turned to the array of tasty potluck choices that's always a feast for our eyes and our bellies. A day filled with great food, a productive meeting, and a gathering of fun “classic” friends made this a wonderful start to our Olympic Club year. Let's keep these good times rolling.
Van
A BUFFET OF QUALITY FOOD AND FRIENDSHIP
December 8, 2024
'Tis the season to be jolly... and on Sunday afternoon, December 8, a jolly group of Olympic T'birders attended our annual Christmas party at the Golden Spoon restaurant in Federal Way. This is a reasonably priced “all-you-can-eat” buffet style establishment that offers a wide variety of brunch and lunch options. Among the choices were made-to-order omelets and hamburgers, carvings of prime rib, steak, soups, salad bar, desserts, and ice cream. Wow! Reliable sources have told me that even Santa will be ordering take-out from here so he can enjoy tasty snacks during his Christmas eve trek. Hey, it's a long trip, and poor Santa deserves more than just milk and cookies!
As we were having our meals, it offered time for greetings and friendly conversation. It was nice to visit with folks we haven't seen for awhile, including Jean Cournoyer, Jack Geiger, Phillip Westfall, and Chuck and Julie Birch. It's worth noting that Chuck and Julie returned recently from a wonderful 32-day Princess cruise, visiting many points of interest in Southeast Asia and Hawaii. It seems the Birches have a good idea what retirement is all about. We wish them safe travels on any future adventures.
In the spirit of the holiday season, Santa had donated a couple of nice surprise give-aways that were then presented to the lucky winners of a Christmas-themed trivia quiz. First place was won by Martin Antrim who received a $75 Costco gift card. Second place went to Deb Gregor who is a friend and car buddy of Jack Geiger. This second place finish earned her a matching set of neat holiday throw pillows. This was not an easy quiz, and we congratulate both Martin and Deb for how well they did.
There's always a lively discussion about the rules that need to be followed for our gift exchange, particularly about “stealing” gifts and when they are safe. But for the first time in years, this discussion proved unnecessary because among all the gifts that were exchanged only one “theft” occurred. This was a welcome relief because most everyone was pleased with the gifts they'd picked out. Among them were framed artwork, household items, collectibles, fine chocolates, wine and other food items.
Our Christmas party get-togethers are such a nice way to end our Olympic Club year, and they serve as a great way to start the holiday season. Thank you to all who attended, and a special thank you to those who donated unwrapped toys for the Marines' Toys for Tots campaign. This is a thoughtful gesture. We may not witness it first hand, but there will be joy and smiles on the faces of the children who receive them.
Sincere appreciation to Michael and Bonnie Hall for hosting this successful event. They did an outstanding job from start to finish, taking care of planning, preparations and details. Well done, you two! Last but not least, best wishes to all our members for a new year filled with joy, happiness and good health. Fingers crossed, too, for miles and miles of trouble-free driving!
Van
As we were having our meals, it offered time for greetings and friendly conversation. It was nice to visit with folks we haven't seen for awhile, including Jean Cournoyer, Jack Geiger, Phillip Westfall, and Chuck and Julie Birch. It's worth noting that Chuck and Julie returned recently from a wonderful 32-day Princess cruise, visiting many points of interest in Southeast Asia and Hawaii. It seems the Birches have a good idea what retirement is all about. We wish them safe travels on any future adventures.
In the spirit of the holiday season, Santa had donated a couple of nice surprise give-aways that were then presented to the lucky winners of a Christmas-themed trivia quiz. First place was won by Martin Antrim who received a $75 Costco gift card. Second place went to Deb Gregor who is a friend and car buddy of Jack Geiger. This second place finish earned her a matching set of neat holiday throw pillows. This was not an easy quiz, and we congratulate both Martin and Deb for how well they did.
There's always a lively discussion about the rules that need to be followed for our gift exchange, particularly about “stealing” gifts and when they are safe. But for the first time in years, this discussion proved unnecessary because among all the gifts that were exchanged only one “theft” occurred. This was a welcome relief because most everyone was pleased with the gifts they'd picked out. Among them were framed artwork, household items, collectibles, fine chocolates, wine and other food items.
Our Christmas party get-togethers are such a nice way to end our Olympic Club year, and they serve as a great way to start the holiday season. Thank you to all who attended, and a special thank you to those who donated unwrapped toys for the Marines' Toys for Tots campaign. This is a thoughtful gesture. We may not witness it first hand, but there will be joy and smiles on the faces of the children who receive them.
Sincere appreciation to Michael and Bonnie Hall for hosting this successful event. They did an outstanding job from start to finish, taking care of planning, preparations and details. Well done, you two! Last but not least, best wishes to all our members for a new year filled with joy, happiness and good health. Fingers crossed, too, for miles and miles of trouble-free driving!
Van
OUR 2025 EVENTS OFFER A VARIETY OF FUN
November 17, 2024
On Sunday, November 17, our Calendar of Events Planning & Business Meeting was held at the home of Frank and Cathy Stubbs in Newcastle. This beautiful, spacious home is centrally located and it has served us very well as a convenient meeting point. We truly appreciate Frank and Cathy's wonderful hospitality, and we are grateful to them for their long-standing support of our club.
The meeting drew a nice-sized gathering with 31 members in attendance. Many arrived early to allow some time for greetings and catching up on news. It was great to see and visit with folks we haven't seen for awhile, including “Mr. Cliff” Holland, Steve Okamura, and Jerry and Becky Cline. The Clines live in Chelan, but they visit family living on this side of the state. Timing worked out super for them to make it to our meeting. It was also nice to chat with newer members Ken Scott and Fran Cissell who live in southeast Pierce County near Spanaway. Ken and Fran deserve a note of recognition. Even though they are newer to our club, they have already volunteered to co-host one of next year's events. Kudos you two!
The meeting was called to order by President Vickie Willson shortly after 1:00 pm. The main topic on our agenda was to discuss a variety of ideas that had been suggested to fill our monthly calendar for 2025. The process of deciding which ideas to pick turned into a lively conversation that was mixed with frustration and fun. But all the effort proved worthwhile because we ended up with a super selection of interesting and entertaining things to do. An added plus is that we have members who volunteered to host them. How neat is that! Hopefully, many of them will peak your interest and that you will make plans to attend.
Part of the meeting was set aside for a short awards ceremony. This included handing out longevity pins to those who earned them, and it was also for the presentation of our club's annual “Allstrom All-Star Award,” given to deserving members for outstanding service. The Executive Board voted unanimously that this year they would be honoring two of our members, Nancy Burress and Vickie Willson, who they felt were equally worthy of this award. Working together, Nancy and Vickie put in “above and beyond” effort planning and coordinating our successful “Soaring in September” multiclub event.
Once the meeting adjourned, we turned our attention to yet another delicious potluck that included tasty main dishes, salads, fruit, appetizers, and a separate table filled with desserts. Just how good was it? Well, there was an enthusiastic buzz among our group seeking out and exchanging many superb recipes. What a nice way to top off a productive meeting. Thank you, again, to Frank and Cathy and to all those who attended.
We now look forward to a big turn-out for our Christmas party on Sunday, December 8th. It's our last club event for the year, and it will be a great way to start the holiday season.
Van
The meeting drew a nice-sized gathering with 31 members in attendance. Many arrived early to allow some time for greetings and catching up on news. It was great to see and visit with folks we haven't seen for awhile, including “Mr. Cliff” Holland, Steve Okamura, and Jerry and Becky Cline. The Clines live in Chelan, but they visit family living on this side of the state. Timing worked out super for them to make it to our meeting. It was also nice to chat with newer members Ken Scott and Fran Cissell who live in southeast Pierce County near Spanaway. Ken and Fran deserve a note of recognition. Even though they are newer to our club, they have already volunteered to co-host one of next year's events. Kudos you two!
The meeting was called to order by President Vickie Willson shortly after 1:00 pm. The main topic on our agenda was to discuss a variety of ideas that had been suggested to fill our monthly calendar for 2025. The process of deciding which ideas to pick turned into a lively conversation that was mixed with frustration and fun. But all the effort proved worthwhile because we ended up with a super selection of interesting and entertaining things to do. An added plus is that we have members who volunteered to host them. How neat is that! Hopefully, many of them will peak your interest and that you will make plans to attend.
Part of the meeting was set aside for a short awards ceremony. This included handing out longevity pins to those who earned them, and it was also for the presentation of our club's annual “Allstrom All-Star Award,” given to deserving members for outstanding service. The Executive Board voted unanimously that this year they would be honoring two of our members, Nancy Burress and Vickie Willson, who they felt were equally worthy of this award. Working together, Nancy and Vickie put in “above and beyond” effort planning and coordinating our successful “Soaring in September” multiclub event.
Once the meeting adjourned, we turned our attention to yet another delicious potluck that included tasty main dishes, salads, fruit, appetizers, and a separate table filled with desserts. Just how good was it? Well, there was an enthusiastic buzz among our group seeking out and exchanging many superb recipes. What a nice way to top off a productive meeting. Thank you, again, to Frank and Cathy and to all those who attended.
We now look forward to a big turn-out for our Christmas party on Sunday, December 8th. It's our last club event for the year, and it will be a great way to start the holiday season.
Van
OCTC RECOGNITION PINS
Each year at the November Business Meeting OCTC members are recognized for the number of years they have participated in the club. This recognition is done in 5 year increments, and those present at the meeting received pins in recognition of their club participation. If you were not present, and would like to receive your pin, please advise Frank Stubbs when you plan to attend your next event, and he will bring your pin. The following were recognized at this meeting:
Richard Mazza & Karen Cota 5 years
Michael & Cathie Ball 10 years
Craig & Cathy Landon 10 years
Dan & Fran DelDuca 15 years
Ted & Patty Knieriem 15 years
Van & Lynn Victor 25 years
Deborah & Larry Walters 25 years
Kennetta Eisner 50 years
George & Dot Lang 50 years
Due to mailing costs, we only mail to those members that reside out-of-state. We also gladly accept old pins which are then recycled back to members.
Frank Stubbs, Historian
Each year at the November Business Meeting OCTC members are recognized for the number of years they have participated in the club. This recognition is done in 5 year increments, and those present at the meeting received pins in recognition of their club participation. If you were not present, and would like to receive your pin, please advise Frank Stubbs when you plan to attend your next event, and he will bring your pin. The following were recognized at this meeting:
Richard Mazza & Karen Cota 5 years
Michael & Cathie Ball 10 years
Craig & Cathy Landon 10 years
Dan & Fran DelDuca 15 years
Ted & Patty Knieriem 15 years
Van & Lynn Victor 25 years
Deborah & Larry Walters 25 years
Kennetta Eisner 50 years
George & Dot Lang 50 years
Due to mailing costs, we only mail to those members that reside out-of-state. We also gladly accept old pins which are then recycled back to members.
Frank Stubbs, Historian
CRAB FEED IN HANSVILLE
October 20, 2024
October is always a great month for a driving tour with all the abundant Fall colors to enjoy. Unfortunately, the faithful weathermen kept is in suspense as to weather expectations for Sunday, October 20th, our scheduled date for the first ever Crab Feed at Martin and Diana Antrim’s beautiful new home in Hansville. Three cars with the Stubbs in their green ’57 being the only little bird gathered at the designated meeting place in Tacoma. Others chose routes more convenient to their home ports. Our little caravan left Tacoma following the planned route, until the T-bird varied from the printed directions, and we found ourselves headed toward Port Gamble rather than Hansville. With a little Olympic maneuvering we managed to get back on track with an additional scenic drive through somewhere called the Big Valley. Once back on track we completed our route up to Point No Point and back to Hansville right at the appointed noon arrival time.
The Antrim’s yard and home quickly filled up with cars (only one T-Bird) and about two dozen Thunderbirders and guests with their appetites ready to start cracking and picking fresh crab. Guests included Donna’s friend, Marilyn, Janice’s friend, John Paul, potential new members, Ken Scott and his partner Fran, and neighbors of the Antrim’s, Earle and Marga. Earle and Marga are also longtime car friends of the Stubbs’ and have attended a few OCTC events throughout the years. Martin had spent the last couple of days planting his pots, harvesting the local Dungeness crab and cooking it all for our enjoyment. While Martin was busy playing with the crabs, Diana was busy making salads and making sure there were plenty of beverages available. Of course, those attending also brought many delicious appetizers and desserts. A very enjoyable feast was had by all. When all was done, there was still crab on ice, and we were invited to take some along.
It was a fun afternoon, and with any luck most of the attendees made their trips home without encountering much, if any rain. A huge THANK YOU to Martin and Diana for inviting us to their beautiful home and hosting this event and for all their time and effort (although we know Martin thoroughly enjoys harvesting crab and other seafood) putting this event together. Also, thank you to Dan and Fran for heading over a day early to help prepare for the influx of hungry ‘Birders.
Cathy
The Antrim’s yard and home quickly filled up with cars (only one T-Bird) and about two dozen Thunderbirders and guests with their appetites ready to start cracking and picking fresh crab. Guests included Donna’s friend, Marilyn, Janice’s friend, John Paul, potential new members, Ken Scott and his partner Fran, and neighbors of the Antrim’s, Earle and Marga. Earle and Marga are also longtime car friends of the Stubbs’ and have attended a few OCTC events throughout the years. Martin had spent the last couple of days planting his pots, harvesting the local Dungeness crab and cooking it all for our enjoyment. While Martin was busy playing with the crabs, Diana was busy making salads and making sure there were plenty of beverages available. Of course, those attending also brought many delicious appetizers and desserts. A very enjoyable feast was had by all. When all was done, there was still crab on ice, and we were invited to take some along.
It was a fun afternoon, and with any luck most of the attendees made their trips home without encountering much, if any rain. A huge THANK YOU to Martin and Diana for inviting us to their beautiful home and hosting this event and for all their time and effort (although we know Martin thoroughly enjoys harvesting crab and other seafood) putting this event together. Also, thank you to Dan and Fran for heading over a day early to help prepare for the influx of hungry ‘Birders.
Cathy
SOARING IN SEPTEMBER III
A GATHERING OF THUNDERBIRD FRIENDS
After months of planning the story of Soaring III began Saturday, September 14th, at the La Quinta in Burlington, WA. That afternoon the hospitality room was buzzing with about 45 eager Thunderbirders. Event chairpersons, Nancy Burress and Vickie Willson, were busy greeting attendees and handing out their registration packets. Those present included current and past Thunderbird owners from Texas, British Columbia, Oregon and Washington. While sharing interesting stories with one another, all enjoyed homemade cookies and assorted beverages.
Sunday was boat touring day. The first round of boaters met in the hospitality room to receive their instructions from their tour leader before departing on a scenic drive toward the North Cascades and Diablo Lake. The second group followed receiving their instructions for the driving tour to Deception Pass.
The Sunday morning cruise to Diablo Dam was led by Ward and Sue Luhman, driving their 56 T-Bird along with Nancy Burress and Janice Westfall in Nancy’s 57 and Island Vintage Club members from Nanaimo, BC, Al and Sally Brett driving their 1956. Also enjoying the 1 ½ hour scenic drive in were Jon and Susan Hanson and George and Dot Lang, all the way from Texas. Ruth Kelly (former OCTC member) of Rose City Thunderbirds rode with the Langs.
The boat excursion on Diablo Lake was comfortable and well-liked by all. We had an excellent National Parks woman narrating the sights and back story of the Diablo Canyon that later became Diablo Lake and Dam. We were fortunate with warm weather, good company and a seaworthy vessel.
Our return trip included a lunch stop in Concrete at a local diner. The food was tasty and replenished us for the rest of the way back to the hotel. The tour was well planned, and the directions were clear and easy to follow. We all appreciated the planning that went into the cruise and the entire Soaring in September event. Even down to the “ethanol free” gas stations that some of us made use of.
The tour to Deception Pass was well planned with excellent directions, also. This tour was led by Clarke and Wilma Hamm. After crossing the Deception Pass bridge, we entered the Deception Pass State Park area. Our drive took us farther into the park and the marina at Cornet Bay. This was where we boarded the jet boat which took us on a tour of the pass and then out into the open waters. Our tour included a search for some of the local wildlife, a talk on the early history of the pass, and an explanation of the rather dangerous currents that run through the pass rather like a river that changes directions with the incoming and outgoing tides.
Following our boat ride, our drive took us back to the Country Corner for lunch. After lunch some chose to return to the hotel while a few of us journeyed into quaint LaConner where we wandered through some of the many shops and enjoyed ice cream.
A group dinner was held that evening at Coconuts Pizza where many enjoyed pizza, salads and bevages.
Sunday was boat touring day. The first round of boaters met in the hospitality room to receive their instructions from their tour leader before departing on a scenic drive toward the North Cascades and Diablo Lake. The second group followed receiving their instructions for the driving tour to Deception Pass.
The Sunday morning cruise to Diablo Dam was led by Ward and Sue Luhman, driving their 56 T-Bird along with Nancy Burress and Janice Westfall in Nancy’s 57 and Island Vintage Club members from Nanaimo, BC, Al and Sally Brett driving their 1956. Also enjoying the 1 ½ hour scenic drive in were Jon and Susan Hanson and George and Dot Lang, all the way from Texas. Ruth Kelly (former OCTC member) of Rose City Thunderbirds rode with the Langs.
The boat excursion on Diablo Lake was comfortable and well-liked by all. We had an excellent National Parks woman narrating the sights and back story of the Diablo Canyon that later became Diablo Lake and Dam. We were fortunate with warm weather, good company and a seaworthy vessel.
Our return trip included a lunch stop in Concrete at a local diner. The food was tasty and replenished us for the rest of the way back to the hotel. The tour was well planned, and the directions were clear and easy to follow. We all appreciated the planning that went into the cruise and the entire Soaring in September event. Even down to the “ethanol free” gas stations that some of us made use of.
The tour to Deception Pass was well planned with excellent directions, also. This tour was led by Clarke and Wilma Hamm. After crossing the Deception Pass bridge, we entered the Deception Pass State Park area. Our drive took us farther into the park and the marina at Cornet Bay. This was where we boarded the jet boat which took us on a tour of the pass and then out into the open waters. Our tour included a search for some of the local wildlife, a talk on the early history of the pass, and an explanation of the rather dangerous currents that run through the pass rather like a river that changes directions with the incoming and outgoing tides.
Following our boat ride, our drive took us back to the Country Corner for lunch. After lunch some chose to return to the hotel while a few of us journeyed into quaint LaConner where we wandered through some of the many shops and enjoyed ice cream.
A group dinner was held that evening at Coconuts Pizza where many enjoyed pizza, salads and bevages.
Monday was museum tour day. Following another driver’s meeting, we journeyed a short distance to Drager’s Club House/Drager’s International Sales, owned by Jeri Drager and his son Andrew. Drager’s got its start in 1934 when Jeri’s dad, Otto, started Drager’s Harley Davidson in Aberdeen, WA. Eventually, the store moved to Seattle and in 1960 Jeri began his career working in the store. In the ‘70’s Jeri started Drager’s International Sales and bought his first classic car. After occupying several locations in Seattle, they moved Drager’s to Burlington in 2000. They call the current location and home of Drager’s International “Drager’s Clubhouse”. There are many cars for sale, along with some of the motorcycles. The clubhouse is truly a museum with the walls covered with signage and memorabilia along with many display cases full of toys and collectables, along with pedal cars lined up on the floors. The upstairs is devoted to motorcycles. We had a chance to meet Andrew Drager, Jeri’s son, but unfortunately a scheduling conflict kept Jeri away from the store. For those who missed this event you can see a tour of Drager’s on You Tube – “Drager’s International Tour Club House”.
After Drager’s tour we stopped at the local Bob’s Burgers and Brews, where we lunched in a separate room. Following lunch, we were on the road again to our next stop, Bell’s Studebaker Museum in north Bellingham.
James and Stephanie Bell are the owners and creators of this unique Studebaker Museum. James had owned several collector and muscle cars, but when they got married, they decided they wanted to own something different which led them to collect Studebakers. Their philosophy is that every car has a story, and every person has a story involving a vehicle. Thus, you can imagine the stories that have been told at this museum.
James and Stephanie were there to great us after we parked. They first led us into a room that has been designed in the look of a 50’s type diner. After being sure we signed the guest book, we were then offered cookies, muffins and assorted beverages. From there we were ushered into a large building containing many Studebakers and Studebaker Packards in various shapes and sizes and including early horse drawn carriages. After spending time in this building, we were then led to another building containing more Studebakers – some restored, some not so much. Once we completed our tour the Bell’s asked everyone to gather for a group picture. Out came the ladder and cameras. They host many car clubs, schools, senior groups etc., and have many group pictures displayed throughout their facilities.
Following our Studebaker tour, we drove back to I-5 continuing south to an exit that was convenient to Chuckanut Drive. We followed this scenic route with views of the water back to Mt. Vernon, and directly to our Monday evening dinner location, the Royal Star Buffet. This restaurant had an area set aside for our group where many dined, enjoying an Asian type buffet, and some choosing alternate dining locations.
After Drager’s tour we stopped at the local Bob’s Burgers and Brews, where we lunched in a separate room. Following lunch, we were on the road again to our next stop, Bell’s Studebaker Museum in north Bellingham.
James and Stephanie Bell are the owners and creators of this unique Studebaker Museum. James had owned several collector and muscle cars, but when they got married, they decided they wanted to own something different which led them to collect Studebakers. Their philosophy is that every car has a story, and every person has a story involving a vehicle. Thus, you can imagine the stories that have been told at this museum.
James and Stephanie were there to great us after we parked. They first led us into a room that has been designed in the look of a 50’s type diner. After being sure we signed the guest book, we were then offered cookies, muffins and assorted beverages. From there we were ushered into a large building containing many Studebakers and Studebaker Packards in various shapes and sizes and including early horse drawn carriages. After spending time in this building, we were then led to another building containing more Studebakers – some restored, some not so much. Once we completed our tour the Bell’s asked everyone to gather for a group picture. Out came the ladder and cameras. They host many car clubs, schools, senior groups etc., and have many group pictures displayed throughout their facilities.
Following our Studebaker tour, we drove back to I-5 continuing south to an exit that was convenient to Chuckanut Drive. We followed this scenic route with views of the water back to Mt. Vernon, and directly to our Monday evening dinner location, the Royal Star Buffet. This restaurant had an area set aside for our group where many dined, enjoying an Asian type buffet, and some choosing alternate dining locations.
Tuesday following the morning hotel breakfast and driver’s meeting, our tour took us through the Skagit farmlands to Camano Island. Our first stop was the Camano Commons Market place where we browsed the stores and enjoyed coffee and bakery goodies. Back in the cars we continued our trip around the north of the island and south down the westside. Our next leg-shaking stop was at Camano Island State Park. Many enjoyed the beach access area and took part in great photo opportunities of scenery and our littlebirds.
On the road again heading north on the eastern side of Camano, we stopped at the Matzke Fine Art Gallery and Sculpture Park. This gallery was started by artist, Karla Matzke. Her gallery features prominent and emerging American and International artists. The gallery is located on 10 acres where you are invited to walk much of it while viewing many “interesting” sculptures where the artists have used bronze, steel, glass, stone and other materials to build their creations.
Our final stop late that afternoon was the Camano Country Club. Upon arriving Nancy organized the Thunderbirds by year for final pictures together. After the photo session we were invited into the country club to enjoy a final event dinner together with great views of the sound and the Cascade Mountains. The room and tables were beautifully decorated by member Angela Mendolia, who also made all the arrangements for the country club and the catered dinner. For the past several days attendees had been carrying around a ticket in their name tag pouch. For those who kept their tickets, some were rewarded with raffle prizes to close out the evening.
A big thank you goes out to Nancy and Vickie for taking on this event, and to all those OCTC members who helped them in making this another successful Northwest club gathering. Of course, this event would not have been a success without the support of all the event attendees. Thank you so much for coming. Will there be a Soaring IV Event in 2025?
On the road again heading north on the eastern side of Camano, we stopped at the Matzke Fine Art Gallery and Sculpture Park. This gallery was started by artist, Karla Matzke. Her gallery features prominent and emerging American and International artists. The gallery is located on 10 acres where you are invited to walk much of it while viewing many “interesting” sculptures where the artists have used bronze, steel, glass, stone and other materials to build their creations.
Our final stop late that afternoon was the Camano Country Club. Upon arriving Nancy organized the Thunderbirds by year for final pictures together. After the photo session we were invited into the country club to enjoy a final event dinner together with great views of the sound and the Cascade Mountains. The room and tables were beautifully decorated by member Angela Mendolia, who also made all the arrangements for the country club and the catered dinner. For the past several days attendees had been carrying around a ticket in their name tag pouch. For those who kept their tickets, some were rewarded with raffle prizes to close out the evening.
A big thank you goes out to Nancy and Vickie for taking on this event, and to all those OCTC members who helped them in making this another successful Northwest club gathering. Of course, this event would not have been a success without the support of all the event attendees. Thank you so much for coming. Will there be a Soaring IV Event in 2025?
A FUN WAY TO SEA WESTPORT'S HISTORY
August 17, 2024
A nice group of 18 car enthusiasts met on Saturday morning, August 17, at the I-5 Nisqually Chevron Station in preparation for our driving cruise to Westport. Included were Ron Bunn and his daughter Carolyn, Dan and Fran Del Duca, Clarke and Wilma Hamm, Frank and Cathy Stubbs, Kyle Stubbs, Van and Lynn Victor, and President Vickie Willson. We were joined by our good friends Jerry and Terry Little from the solid axle Corvette Club along with four other members from their club. These Corvette folks are always a welcome addition to our caravan. Our travel to Westport included driving along highways 101, 8, 12, and 105. At a point near the town of McCleary, our group was joined by Craig and Cathy Landon who were driving their 50th Anniversary special edition retro-bird. It's a metallic blue beauty.
As we arrived in Westport, our first stop was to experience the Grays Harbor Lighthouse. We were greeted there by John Shaw who is the Executive Director of the Westport-South Beach Historical Society. This non-profit organization maintains and preserves the history of this lighthouse and the city's Maritime Museum. Mr. Shaw explained some of the lighthouse's points of interest. It was completed and put into service in 1898. It is 107 feet high and stands as the tallest lighthouse in Washington. We were invited to climb the 135 steps to the top where we were treated to panoramic views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape. It's on the National Register of Historic Places, and still remains an active aid to navigation.
Our next stop was at Westport's Maritime Museum where Mr. Shaw had reserved an area for us to park our specialty cars together, lined up in a row. Very nice. The museum is housed in a historic Coast Guard Station made up of five buildings located in the center of Westport's very active marina district. Its exhibits include Coast Guard history, rescue operations, beachcombing, and marine life. There's even a logbook for former “Coasties” to enter their rank and past duty locations. Kyle and Van proudly filled in their info. One of the true highlights at the museum is the Fresnel lens which is on active display in one of the buildings. Mr. Shaw led our group into this building and explained information about the lens. Designed in France by Augustine Fresnel, it was shipped to America in 1891 where it was installed at the Destruction Island lighthouse, located north of Westport. It is recognized as a marvel of reflective capability, but its difficult mechanical maintenance led to it being replaced by an automated device in 1995. Because of its rare exquisite quality, people from around the world come to view it. We were told estimated value of this lens today is six million dollars.
Following our visit to the museum, we spent some time taking in the shops and the town's annual Art Festival before heading to the Blue Buoy Restaurant for an enjoyable lunch. We finished our event at the right time to head back home, trying to stay ahead of the pending bad weather forecast. Hopefully, we all had our cars tucked safely inside before 8:00 pm when our greater Puget Sound area was struck with thunder, lightning and pouring rain.
We offer a sincere thank you to all of our members and to the solid axle Corvette group who joined us on this driving adventure. And a special note of appreciation goes to Executive Director John Shaw for all the courtesies and attention he provided us. He helped make our event a real success.
Van and Lynn
As we arrived in Westport, our first stop was to experience the Grays Harbor Lighthouse. We were greeted there by John Shaw who is the Executive Director of the Westport-South Beach Historical Society. This non-profit organization maintains and preserves the history of this lighthouse and the city's Maritime Museum. Mr. Shaw explained some of the lighthouse's points of interest. It was completed and put into service in 1898. It is 107 feet high and stands as the tallest lighthouse in Washington. We were invited to climb the 135 steps to the top where we were treated to panoramic views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape. It's on the National Register of Historic Places, and still remains an active aid to navigation.
Our next stop was at Westport's Maritime Museum where Mr. Shaw had reserved an area for us to park our specialty cars together, lined up in a row. Very nice. The museum is housed in a historic Coast Guard Station made up of five buildings located in the center of Westport's very active marina district. Its exhibits include Coast Guard history, rescue operations, beachcombing, and marine life. There's even a logbook for former “Coasties” to enter their rank and past duty locations. Kyle and Van proudly filled in their info. One of the true highlights at the museum is the Fresnel lens which is on active display in one of the buildings. Mr. Shaw led our group into this building and explained information about the lens. Designed in France by Augustine Fresnel, it was shipped to America in 1891 where it was installed at the Destruction Island lighthouse, located north of Westport. It is recognized as a marvel of reflective capability, but its difficult mechanical maintenance led to it being replaced by an automated device in 1995. Because of its rare exquisite quality, people from around the world come to view it. We were told estimated value of this lens today is six million dollars.
Following our visit to the museum, we spent some time taking in the shops and the town's annual Art Festival before heading to the Blue Buoy Restaurant for an enjoyable lunch. We finished our event at the right time to head back home, trying to stay ahead of the pending bad weather forecast. Hopefully, we all had our cars tucked safely inside before 8:00 pm when our greater Puget Sound area was struck with thunder, lightning and pouring rain.
We offer a sincere thank you to all of our members and to the solid axle Corvette group who joined us on this driving adventure. And a special note of appreciation goes to Executive Director John Shaw for all the courtesies and attention he provided us. He helped make our event a real success.
Van and Lynn
Annual OCTC Picnic
July 7, 2024
Well, those of you who didn’t make it to our July event missed a wonderful highlight of the month! The weather was beautiful, and the company even better. We had 15 people come together at Nancy’s waterfront house on Big Lake, outside of Mt. Vernon. Present were our hostess Nancy Burress, along with Clark and Wilma Hamm, Van and Lynn Victor, Mel and Linda Lang, Ward and Sue Luhman, Janice Westfall and myself, Vickie Willson. Joining us were two couples that we don’t get to see often – extra special welcomes to Michael and Cathie Ball, and Chuck and Geri Kahler.
The potluck, as well as the weather, are always a highlight of this event. Nancy treated us all to two wonderful main dishes, and everyone else joined in the food fest with salads, fruit, side dishes and some simply great desserts. As we said our farewells, Nancy stocked up everyone with take-home plates. I know that everyone there will be anxiously looking forward to next year’s picnic. Thank you, Nancy, for being such a great hostess.
Vickie Willson
The potluck, as well as the weather, are always a highlight of this event. Nancy treated us all to two wonderful main dishes, and everyone else joined in the food fest with salads, fruit, side dishes and some simply great desserts. As we said our farewells, Nancy stocked up everyone with take-home plates. I know that everyone there will be anxiously looking forward to next year’s picnic. Thank you, Nancy, for being such a great hostess.
Vickie Willson
“SWEET” HOOD CANAL CRUISE REVEALS OCTC'S
“SWEET TOOTH”
June 30, 2024
Mike Hall said he had a heart-to-heart talk with Mother Nature asking her to provide nice weather for our driving cruise along the southern borders of Hood Canal. Evidently she paid proper attention to his request, delivering us a truly beautiful day with mild temperatures. We'll be depending on Mike to maintain his close personal connection with Mother Nature for all our future events. Great job, Mr. Hall!
An Olympic Club group of 12 met on Sunday morning, June 30th, at the McDonald's restaurant on Sixth Avenue in Tacoma. Included were Dan and Fran Del Duca, Mike and Bonnie, Frank and Cathy Stubbs, Kyle Stubbs, Van and Lynn Victor, Vickie Willson, and Kevin and Maureen Wilson. At that point, our caravan included one '55, one '56, three '57s, the DelDuca's '57 Ranchero, and Vickie's “Screaming Yellow” Mustang convertible. Our cruise of the area's back roads began with a drive across the Narrows Bridge via Hwy16 to Purdy where we met up with Martin and Diana Antrim who were driving their 1979 VW Super Beetle convertible. Leave it to the Antrims, never failing to add a neat, unique touch to our eye-catching caravan. As our drive continued, scenic surroundings included countryside farms, forested lands, two State Parks (Twanoh and Potlatch), and the landscape beauty of Hood Canal. We traveled State Routes 302, 3, and 106, and then onto U.S. Hwy 101 where we reached our destination at the El Puerto De Angeles restaurant in Hoodsport. Once there, we were greeted by fellow members Craig and Cathy Landon who arrived in their '57. Earlier in the day, Craig and Cathy had taken part in a well-attended car show at Shelton but broke away from that to join us for lunch. This was a nice gesture on their part as we gathered to enjoy good food and good company.
At the restaurant, we were seated together in an area overlooking the canal. The location, the service, and the food all received high marks. As we were placing our food orders, we all picked from the menu's great mix of Mexican entrees such as tacos, enchiladas, and burritos. Well... almost all of us did this. The one exception was Dan Del Duca. He by-passed all the appetizers and entrees, choosing instead to go for one of their specialty sweet treat desserts. Must admit when it arrived, many of us envied his choice. It truly looked like a taste-tempting bundle of goodness.
As we left the restaurant to head back home, a group of us thought that a sweet treat would be a nice way to top off the day's event. With this in mind, the Del Ducas, the Landons, the Stubbs's, the Victors, and the Wilsons headed for a stop at the small community of Union where they have a great combination nursery and ice cream business. This turned out to be a fun, enjoyable place to visit with reasonably-priced plants and ice cream. Not sure how the plants tasted, but my double-scoop ice cream was delicious!
Thank you Mike and Bonnie for hosting and planning out the route for this day's neat driving cruise. Very well done.
Van
An Olympic Club group of 12 met on Sunday morning, June 30th, at the McDonald's restaurant on Sixth Avenue in Tacoma. Included were Dan and Fran Del Duca, Mike and Bonnie, Frank and Cathy Stubbs, Kyle Stubbs, Van and Lynn Victor, Vickie Willson, and Kevin and Maureen Wilson. At that point, our caravan included one '55, one '56, three '57s, the DelDuca's '57 Ranchero, and Vickie's “Screaming Yellow” Mustang convertible. Our cruise of the area's back roads began with a drive across the Narrows Bridge via Hwy16 to Purdy where we met up with Martin and Diana Antrim who were driving their 1979 VW Super Beetle convertible. Leave it to the Antrims, never failing to add a neat, unique touch to our eye-catching caravan. As our drive continued, scenic surroundings included countryside farms, forested lands, two State Parks (Twanoh and Potlatch), and the landscape beauty of Hood Canal. We traveled State Routes 302, 3, and 106, and then onto U.S. Hwy 101 where we reached our destination at the El Puerto De Angeles restaurant in Hoodsport. Once there, we were greeted by fellow members Craig and Cathy Landon who arrived in their '57. Earlier in the day, Craig and Cathy had taken part in a well-attended car show at Shelton but broke away from that to join us for lunch. This was a nice gesture on their part as we gathered to enjoy good food and good company.
At the restaurant, we were seated together in an area overlooking the canal. The location, the service, and the food all received high marks. As we were placing our food orders, we all picked from the menu's great mix of Mexican entrees such as tacos, enchiladas, and burritos. Well... almost all of us did this. The one exception was Dan Del Duca. He by-passed all the appetizers and entrees, choosing instead to go for one of their specialty sweet treat desserts. Must admit when it arrived, many of us envied his choice. It truly looked like a taste-tempting bundle of goodness.
As we left the restaurant to head back home, a group of us thought that a sweet treat would be a nice way to top off the day's event. With this in mind, the Del Ducas, the Landons, the Stubbs's, the Victors, and the Wilsons headed for a stop at the small community of Union where they have a great combination nursery and ice cream business. This turned out to be a fun, enjoyable place to visit with reasonably-priced plants and ice cream. Not sure how the plants tasted, but my double-scoop ice cream was delicious!
Thank you Mike and Bonnie for hosting and planning out the route for this day's neat driving cruise. Very well done.
Van
SEQUIM TOUR
May 18 & 19, 2024
A few months back the Olympic Club was offered the opportunity to tour a car collection in Sequim. When the idea was first floated the intent was to have a one day driving tour to Sequim and back. The majority though asked for the event to be an overnight event. Once the overnight location was established the event grew to two nights for some.
On Friday, the Stubbs’, Luhman’s, Hansen’s, Hamm’s and Victor’s made their way to Sequim traveling from different directions and some on different ferries. That evening eleven of us including Kyle Stubbs met at the John Wayne Marina for dinner at the Dockside Grille. The dinner orders of the evening all appeared to be seafood, from Cioppino, to Halibut or Salmon with crab, Seafood Fettucine, and Halibut Fish and Chips. The weather was great, the view was great and the food and service were outstanding. What more could one ask for than to share all of this with friends.
Our meeting place late Saturday morning was the 101 Diner. There we were joined by T-Birders Chuck and Julie Birch, Donna Wisenburg and friend, Nancy Burress and friend, Martin Antrim and Dan Del Duca. Also, joining us were our friends from the Solid Axle Corvette Club, Jerry and Terri Little, and Larry and Sue Plischke. After enjoying diner food, some of us had time before the 12:45 departure to walk off their meal enjoying the downtown shops and the Saturday market where, yes, several were spotted buying their favorite pastries.
Five little birds and an array of everyday drivers arrived at the Sandy Key’s car barn and collection at 1:00 AM. Introductions were made and Sandy and friends gave us a quick overview of Sandy’s collection and the collection of Birds lined up in front of the building. We were then invited into the barn and adjoining building to view Sandy’s collections. Of course, central to his collection is his beautiful black 1957 Thunderbird which he bought new. In a week moment many years ago he sold the car, but recently had the opportunity to repurchase it. His car collection includes a nice variety of Fords, Lincolns, Mercurys, Corvettes, a Firebird, and more. He encouraged us to open the cars and sit in them. The cars were nestled nicely within his collections of memorabilia including toys, signs, barbershop, WWII memorabilia, etc. At one end of the barn was a beautiful antique bar and back-bar flanked by some interesting chandeliers made from beer bottles. One side of the upper loft included memorabilia and the other side included a beautiful sampling of stained glass, many that were made by Sandy.
As the tour was coming to an end and many had left, Dan and Jeri Reiner arrived in their candy-apple ‘57 Bird. We said our hellos before leaving and unfortunately had to leave them on their own to enjoy Sandy’s collection.
Late that afternoon those of us staying Saturday night at the 7 Cedars Hotel and Casino gathered together in the Stubbs’ room for a happy hour of sorts before heading out in small groups for dinner, or to the casino to try their luck.
Sunday morning - Thunderbird Appreciation Day - those of us continuing on the driving tour on 101 down the west side of Hood Canal, met in the parking lot. Jerry Little was our tour director and leader for the day. Unfortunately, we were down to three little birds and two everyday drivers for this leg of our adventure. Our destination was the home and collection of Craig and Cathy Landon near Belfair. Upon arrival we were greated by Craig and Cathy and invited into the boathouse for cookies and beverages. From there we stepped across the road to the garage and building that houses their car/truck collection and their fantastic collection of Flying A petromobilia. Some of us have toured this collection in the past, but it was still fun to see as you never seem to take it all in the first time. It is amazing just to imagine the years of collecting and then the time put into the creative displays. Before hitting the road we all had a chance to enjoy the sun and the view from the boathouse patio. It was truly a wonderful visit.
A huge THANK YOU to Sandy Keys and Craig and Cathy Landon for opening up their collections for us. Also, thank you to Frank Stubbs for setting up the tour of Sandy’s, Jerry Little for setting up the tour to the Landon’s and Sue Luhman for researching and making the arrangements for our overnight stay. Finally, thank you to all of you who participated in this event.
On Friday, the Stubbs’, Luhman’s, Hansen’s, Hamm’s and Victor’s made their way to Sequim traveling from different directions and some on different ferries. That evening eleven of us including Kyle Stubbs met at the John Wayne Marina for dinner at the Dockside Grille. The dinner orders of the evening all appeared to be seafood, from Cioppino, to Halibut or Salmon with crab, Seafood Fettucine, and Halibut Fish and Chips. The weather was great, the view was great and the food and service were outstanding. What more could one ask for than to share all of this with friends.
Our meeting place late Saturday morning was the 101 Diner. There we were joined by T-Birders Chuck and Julie Birch, Donna Wisenburg and friend, Nancy Burress and friend, Martin Antrim and Dan Del Duca. Also, joining us were our friends from the Solid Axle Corvette Club, Jerry and Terri Little, and Larry and Sue Plischke. After enjoying diner food, some of us had time before the 12:45 departure to walk off their meal enjoying the downtown shops and the Saturday market where, yes, several were spotted buying their favorite pastries.
Five little birds and an array of everyday drivers arrived at the Sandy Key’s car barn and collection at 1:00 AM. Introductions were made and Sandy and friends gave us a quick overview of Sandy’s collection and the collection of Birds lined up in front of the building. We were then invited into the barn and adjoining building to view Sandy’s collections. Of course, central to his collection is his beautiful black 1957 Thunderbird which he bought new. In a week moment many years ago he sold the car, but recently had the opportunity to repurchase it. His car collection includes a nice variety of Fords, Lincolns, Mercurys, Corvettes, a Firebird, and more. He encouraged us to open the cars and sit in them. The cars were nestled nicely within his collections of memorabilia including toys, signs, barbershop, WWII memorabilia, etc. At one end of the barn was a beautiful antique bar and back-bar flanked by some interesting chandeliers made from beer bottles. One side of the upper loft included memorabilia and the other side included a beautiful sampling of stained glass, many that were made by Sandy.
As the tour was coming to an end and many had left, Dan and Jeri Reiner arrived in their candy-apple ‘57 Bird. We said our hellos before leaving and unfortunately had to leave them on their own to enjoy Sandy’s collection.
Late that afternoon those of us staying Saturday night at the 7 Cedars Hotel and Casino gathered together in the Stubbs’ room for a happy hour of sorts before heading out in small groups for dinner, or to the casino to try their luck.
Sunday morning - Thunderbird Appreciation Day - those of us continuing on the driving tour on 101 down the west side of Hood Canal, met in the parking lot. Jerry Little was our tour director and leader for the day. Unfortunately, we were down to three little birds and two everyday drivers for this leg of our adventure. Our destination was the home and collection of Craig and Cathy Landon near Belfair. Upon arrival we were greated by Craig and Cathy and invited into the boathouse for cookies and beverages. From there we stepped across the road to the garage and building that houses their car/truck collection and their fantastic collection of Flying A petromobilia. Some of us have toured this collection in the past, but it was still fun to see as you never seem to take it all in the first time. It is amazing just to imagine the years of collecting and then the time put into the creative displays. Before hitting the road we all had a chance to enjoy the sun and the view from the boathouse patio. It was truly a wonderful visit.
A huge THANK YOU to Sandy Keys and Craig and Cathy Landon for opening up their collections for us. Also, thank you to Frank Stubbs for setting up the tour of Sandy’s, Jerry Little for setting up the tour to the Landon’s and Sue Luhman for researching and making the arrangements for our overnight stay. Finally, thank you to all of you who participated in this event.
Birds and Blooms
April 14, 2024
Sunday, April 14th was a beautiful day in the neighborhood, but also a great day for a Thunderbird driving tour and a walk in botanical gardens. Kevin and Maureen Wilson, Cathy and Kyle Stubbs, Vickie Willson and Larry and Emily Muir gathered in the Safeway parking area in Maple Valley to begin our driving tour. Kevin and Maureen led the way in their inca gold ‘57 and were followed by another ‘57, a Mustang and a Miata. Our drive took us to Auburn on the scenic Green Valley River Road where we enjoyed the beautiful farmlands and equestrian estates.
Arriving in Federal Way at the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden we met up with Dan Del Duca, Morris and Gayle Krause, Van and Lynn Victor, and Mike and Bonnie Hall and daughter, Dara. This 22 acre garden has the largest collection of Rhododendron species in the world. Many of the Rhododendrons were in bloom as well as Azaleas, Camellias, Magnolias all planted in various different ecosystems including the Upper Woodland Garden, the Blue Poppy Glade, May Garden and Alpine Rock Garden. With so many trails we all immediately got split up, but with some rendezvousing at the Conservatory during their touring. At the end of the trail was the plant sales area with many types of plants grown in the garden for sale. While some of us spent our remaining visit shopping for plants others wandered next door to enjoy the Bonsai Garden. Upon returning to our cars we found a number of garden visitors photographing our colorful cars and asking many questions. We wondered which was enjoyed more the brightly colored row of collector cars or the beautiful blooms in the garden.
All that walking made many of us hungry, so next on the day’s agenda was lunch at Jimmy Mac’s Roadhouse in Federal Way. Upon arrival we were met by Martin and Diana Antrim in their recently purchased poppy red Plymouth Prowler. The wait staff promptly seated us and made sure we had plenty of peanuts and their famous warm rolls with honey butter. Soon everyone was enjoying their favorite beverages and lunch.
Unfortunately, Frank Stubbs, Fran Del Duca, and Ward and Sue Luhman had to cancel on this event due to various health challenges. We hope they are all doing much better and want you all to know you were missed.
A huge THANK YOU to Kevin and Maureen for planning this fun event. They are fairly new to our area of the country so we are fortunate they have an endless list of places they wish to check out, and have volunteered to include their Thunderbird friends in some of their exploring
Cathy
Arriving in Federal Way at the Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden we met up with Dan Del Duca, Morris and Gayle Krause, Van and Lynn Victor, and Mike and Bonnie Hall and daughter, Dara. This 22 acre garden has the largest collection of Rhododendron species in the world. Many of the Rhododendrons were in bloom as well as Azaleas, Camellias, Magnolias all planted in various different ecosystems including the Upper Woodland Garden, the Blue Poppy Glade, May Garden and Alpine Rock Garden. With so many trails we all immediately got split up, but with some rendezvousing at the Conservatory during their touring. At the end of the trail was the plant sales area with many types of plants grown in the garden for sale. While some of us spent our remaining visit shopping for plants others wandered next door to enjoy the Bonsai Garden. Upon returning to our cars we found a number of garden visitors photographing our colorful cars and asking many questions. We wondered which was enjoyed more the brightly colored row of collector cars or the beautiful blooms in the garden.
All that walking made many of us hungry, so next on the day’s agenda was lunch at Jimmy Mac’s Roadhouse in Federal Way. Upon arrival we were met by Martin and Diana Antrim in their recently purchased poppy red Plymouth Prowler. The wait staff promptly seated us and made sure we had plenty of peanuts and their famous warm rolls with honey butter. Soon everyone was enjoying their favorite beverages and lunch.
Unfortunately, Frank Stubbs, Fran Del Duca, and Ward and Sue Luhman had to cancel on this event due to various health challenges. We hope they are all doing much better and want you all to know you were missed.
A huge THANK YOU to Kevin and Maureen for planning this fun event. They are fairly new to our area of the country so we are fortunate they have an endless list of places they wish to check out, and have volunteered to include their Thunderbird friends in some of their exploring
Cathy
ALL ABOARD!
Northwest Railway Museum and Train Ride
March 16th
On a beautiful sunny Saturday, a group of 7 OCTC members and Vickie Willson’s daughter-in-law and 3 grandchildren met at the historic Snoqualmie Depot. The 11 of us boarded the train at 11am and headed out for a ride that included a stop to view Snoqualmie Falls and then a 30-minute stop at the Train Shed Exhibit Hall. The Hall has hands on train sets for younger visitors and historical information and pictures about the history of the railroad in the Pacific Northwest as you moved around several real train cars. Once the train whistle sounded it was time to reboard and head to North Bend where we stopped briefly to onboard and offload more passengers. I didn’t realize North Bend was so close to Snoqualmie! Surprisingly, the actual time riding the train was brief, but we had fun chatting and imagining the olden days.
Once we disembarked back at the Snoqualmie Depot, we met Frank and Cathy and Kyle Stubbs who joined us for lunch after attending the Puyallup Swap Meet that morning. The 14 of us headed to lunch at a nearby Italian restaurant. The meatball sandwich was a popular choice! I missed visiting the Ice Cream store a few doors down but plan to visit it on my next trip to Downtown Historic Snoqualmie!
Thanks to everyone who joined us for this event!
Fran Del Duca
Once we disembarked back at the Snoqualmie Depot, we met Frank and Cathy and Kyle Stubbs who joined us for lunch after attending the Puyallup Swap Meet that morning. The 14 of us headed to lunch at a nearby Italian restaurant. The meatball sandwich was a popular choice! I missed visiting the Ice Cream store a few doors down but plan to visit it on my next trip to Downtown Historic Snoqualmie!
Thanks to everyone who joined us for this event!
Fran Del Duca
“JERSEY BOYS”: A MONTH LATE BUT WORTH THE WAIT
March 24th (postponed from February 25th)
Classic cars and classic rock'n'roll go hand in hand. Memories of that heart-thumping music blaring through our cars' radios was a sweet part of our '50s and '60s experience. That nostalgia and that music was vividly brought back when we attended a wonderful live performance of “Jersey Boys” at the Tacoma Musical Playhouse. This stage show is the story about Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, describing the formation, success, and eventual break-up of this popular 1960s rock'n'roll group.
Donna Wisenburg had made original plans for us to attend this play as our February event, but cast member illness caused performance delays. Donna persevered and was able to secure group rate tickets for us to attend on Sunday, March 24th. This worked out very well. She also made arrangements for us to have brunch/lunch before the play. For this meal, we met at Tacoma's Clubhouse Grill, a nice restaurant located near the theater. We enjoyed being seated in a separate room with 19 of us in attendance. It was nice to greet and visit with members we haven't seen for awhile, including Craig and Cathy Landon from Belfair and Morris and Gayle Krause. Even as we arrived at the restaurant we knew Morris and Gayle were inside because we spotted their beautiful '56 T'bird parked near the entrance. Kudos!
Tacoma Musical Playhouse is well known for its top quality productions, and this performance of “Jersey Boys” was truly outstanding. There were over 30 musical numbers in this Two-Act Play, and it was a toe-tapping experience from start to finish. It must have been a challenge for the Director to find a talented falsetto-voiced cast member to fill the role of Frankie Valli, but his search proved very successful. Also, even though it was a gritty story-line telling the ups and downs “The Four Seasons” faced in their careers, the cast members were able to narrate it seamlessly between their musical numbers. The Director certainly deserves credit for piecing it together so well. And Donna Wisenburg deserves credit for piecing together our event so well, especially with the initial cancellation and uncertainty about whether it was going to happen at all. A real success.
Now for some added information that may be of interest. Frankie Valli is currently 89 years old, living in Encino, California. He's still touring with dates scheduled through October 2024. He's indicated that this will be his farewell tour and that “The Four Seasons” will effectively end its 64-year run with his retirement. One of the songs that made this group so famous is “Walk Like a Man!” Hmm... when they go on stage now, I wonder if they have to change the lyrics to “Walk Like an Old Man!” (I mean this in fun as a fellow octogenarian.)
Van
Donna Wisenburg had made original plans for us to attend this play as our February event, but cast member illness caused performance delays. Donna persevered and was able to secure group rate tickets for us to attend on Sunday, March 24th. This worked out very well. She also made arrangements for us to have brunch/lunch before the play. For this meal, we met at Tacoma's Clubhouse Grill, a nice restaurant located near the theater. We enjoyed being seated in a separate room with 19 of us in attendance. It was nice to greet and visit with members we haven't seen for awhile, including Craig and Cathy Landon from Belfair and Morris and Gayle Krause. Even as we arrived at the restaurant we knew Morris and Gayle were inside because we spotted their beautiful '56 T'bird parked near the entrance. Kudos!
Tacoma Musical Playhouse is well known for its top quality productions, and this performance of “Jersey Boys” was truly outstanding. There were over 30 musical numbers in this Two-Act Play, and it was a toe-tapping experience from start to finish. It must have been a challenge for the Director to find a talented falsetto-voiced cast member to fill the role of Frankie Valli, but his search proved very successful. Also, even though it was a gritty story-line telling the ups and downs “The Four Seasons” faced in their careers, the cast members were able to narrate it seamlessly between their musical numbers. The Director certainly deserves credit for piecing it together so well. And Donna Wisenburg deserves credit for piecing together our event so well, especially with the initial cancellation and uncertainty about whether it was going to happen at all. A real success.
Now for some added information that may be of interest. Frankie Valli is currently 89 years old, living in Encino, California. He's still touring with dates scheduled through October 2024. He's indicated that this will be his farewell tour and that “The Four Seasons” will effectively end its 64-year run with his retirement. One of the songs that made this group so famous is “Walk Like a Man!” Hmm... when they go on stage now, I wonder if they have to change the lyrics to “Walk Like an Old Man!” (I mean this in fun as a fellow octogenarian.)
Van
ELECTION OF OFFICERS AND EVENTS UPDATE
January 21st, 2024
Thank you to everyone who attended our recent business meeting and election of officers.
It was held on Sunday, January 21, at the home of Frank and Cathy Stubbs. This home is centrally located, and its spacious living room area is well-suited to accommodate groups such as ours. We truly appreciate Frank and Cathy's warm hospitality, as well as their on-going efforts to serve our club's purpose.
The meeting was called to order by President Frank Stubbs shortly after 1:00 pm. It started with a Treasurer's report and then a Secretary's reading of last November's business meeting minutes. Both the accounting of our income/expenses for the past year and the minutes were approved as presented. Thank you to Fran and Dan Del Duca for their efforts. An added note regarding the Treasurer's report: Following the conclusion of our meeting, a committee of Vickie Willson and Van Victor conducted an audit of the paperwork/documents that detailed our club's income and expenses for 2023. This audit was done in the presence of Fran and Dan. The committee found that the account balances from January through December were all in order.
As part of old business, updates and various changes to our monthly events were discussed. Nancy Burress and Vickie Willson let us know they are searching out potential activities and lodging facilities as preparation for OCTC hosting a multi-club event in September. They understand time is a factor, and they will work to firm up specific dates, accommodations, and a planned agenda. As this takes shape, they will be calling on members for helpful hands.
Frank brought up that he had received a call from Sandy Keys, a longtime car enthusiast who lives in Sequim. Sandy invited our club to visit his large, quality car collection that is housed in two separate buildings. A motion was presented for a vote that we schedule going to Sandy Keys' place as our monthly event in May. The motion was approved unanimously. Frank will follow up to pick a day that's compatible for Sandy and for us. There is also a change to our August event because the Tree House facility in Fall City is too expensive for us to consider. Instead, our August event will include “Chuckanut Drive
with breakfast/brunch along the way, and then into Bellingham for sites of interest.
The main purpose of this meeting was to elect new officers for 2024. The slate of candidates that was presented for a vote included: President: Vickie Willson; Vice President: Michael Hall; Secretary: Sue Luhman; Treasurer: Fran Del Duca; Trustees: Frank Stubbs, Ron Bunn, and Chuck and Julie Birch. This group was elected by acclamation. A sincere thank you to these members for volunteering to fill the needed positions. And a grateful appreciation to the outgoing officers for the service they provided us these past two years.
As the meeting adjourned, our attention turned to a feast of tasty potluck choices. It included appetizers, nuts, salads, fruit, main dishes, and desserts. We had well-fed folks, and a productive meeting. Wow, we can't ask for more than that!
Van
It was held on Sunday, January 21, at the home of Frank and Cathy Stubbs. This home is centrally located, and its spacious living room area is well-suited to accommodate groups such as ours. We truly appreciate Frank and Cathy's warm hospitality, as well as their on-going efforts to serve our club's purpose.
The meeting was called to order by President Frank Stubbs shortly after 1:00 pm. It started with a Treasurer's report and then a Secretary's reading of last November's business meeting minutes. Both the accounting of our income/expenses for the past year and the minutes were approved as presented. Thank you to Fran and Dan Del Duca for their efforts. An added note regarding the Treasurer's report: Following the conclusion of our meeting, a committee of Vickie Willson and Van Victor conducted an audit of the paperwork/documents that detailed our club's income and expenses for 2023. This audit was done in the presence of Fran and Dan. The committee found that the account balances from January through December were all in order.
As part of old business, updates and various changes to our monthly events were discussed. Nancy Burress and Vickie Willson let us know they are searching out potential activities and lodging facilities as preparation for OCTC hosting a multi-club event in September. They understand time is a factor, and they will work to firm up specific dates, accommodations, and a planned agenda. As this takes shape, they will be calling on members for helpful hands.
Frank brought up that he had received a call from Sandy Keys, a longtime car enthusiast who lives in Sequim. Sandy invited our club to visit his large, quality car collection that is housed in two separate buildings. A motion was presented for a vote that we schedule going to Sandy Keys' place as our monthly event in May. The motion was approved unanimously. Frank will follow up to pick a day that's compatible for Sandy and for us. There is also a change to our August event because the Tree House facility in Fall City is too expensive for us to consider. Instead, our August event will include “Chuckanut Drive
with breakfast/brunch along the way, and then into Bellingham for sites of interest.
The main purpose of this meeting was to elect new officers for 2024. The slate of candidates that was presented for a vote included: President: Vickie Willson; Vice President: Michael Hall; Secretary: Sue Luhman; Treasurer: Fran Del Duca; Trustees: Frank Stubbs, Ron Bunn, and Chuck and Julie Birch. This group was elected by acclamation. A sincere thank you to these members for volunteering to fill the needed positions. And a grateful appreciation to the outgoing officers for the service they provided us these past two years.
As the meeting adjourned, our attention turned to a feast of tasty potluck choices. It included appetizers, nuts, salads, fruit, main dishes, and desserts. We had well-fed folks, and a productive meeting. Wow, we can't ask for more than that!
Van
A HOLIDAY PARTY OF GIFTS, FOOD AND FRIENDS
December 2, 2023
On Saturday afternoon, December 2, a fun group of 23 Olympic Club T'birders gathered at the Golden Spoon restaurant in Federal Way for our annual Christmas party. The Golden Spoon is a reasonably priced “all-you-can-eat” buffet style establishment that offers an unbelievable variety of brunch and lunch options. Favorable comments were heard from those who attended. Lynn and I had the pleasure of co-hosting this event with Michael and Bonnie Hall who do such a wonderful job with the planning and preparations for this event.
During a social hour of greetings and catching up, it was nice to visit with members we haven't seen in awhile, including Janice Westfall with her good friend John Paul, Larry and Emily Muir, and Jerry and Becky Cline. The Muir's filled us in on how well Betty is doing, staying active and in good spirits. Sounds great, “Betty Boop”, keep it up! The Clines braved the snowy conditions coming across Stevens Pass to join us from their home in Chelan. Jerry was hopeful that our gift exchange might favor him with a bag of ice-melt or an extra set of chains. We appreciate the Clines' extra efforts as they are always a welcome part of our group. It was also neat that a prospective member for our club took the initiative to join us. His name is Jack Geiger who owns a white '57-D 'bird with white upholstery. He said OCTC came to his attention through Frank Stubbs. It should be noted that even on this cold wintery day, Jack drove his '57 to this event. Kudos!
In the spirit of the season, Santa had donated a couple of nice surprise giveaways that were then presented to the lucky winners of a true-false trivia quiz. First place was won by Janice Westfall who received a $75 Costco gift card. Second place went to Jon Hanson who won a large, ornament-filled wreath. This was not an easy quiz. Congratulations to both of you.
Our high-spirited gift exchange that followed was filled with joy, frustration, heartache and laughter. With the large number of top quality gifts, it's no wonder there was an awful lot of “stealing” going on. Tools, unique lighting products, a bag filled with premium chocolates, and holiday-themed stuffed animals/characters were among the many great choices. Vickie Willson even modeled for us part of the gift she received, a brightly-lit reindeer nose. competing this year with Rudolph for that coveted front spot on Santa's sleigh.
This holiday party was such a super way to end our Olympic Club calendar. A sincere thank you to all who joined us, and a special thanks to those who brought unwrapped toys for the Marines' “Toys for Tots” campaign. It's a heart-warming and thoughtful gesture. Best wishes to all our members for happiness in the coming year.
Van
During a social hour of greetings and catching up, it was nice to visit with members we haven't seen in awhile, including Janice Westfall with her good friend John Paul, Larry and Emily Muir, and Jerry and Becky Cline. The Muir's filled us in on how well Betty is doing, staying active and in good spirits. Sounds great, “Betty Boop”, keep it up! The Clines braved the snowy conditions coming across Stevens Pass to join us from their home in Chelan. Jerry was hopeful that our gift exchange might favor him with a bag of ice-melt or an extra set of chains. We appreciate the Clines' extra efforts as they are always a welcome part of our group. It was also neat that a prospective member for our club took the initiative to join us. His name is Jack Geiger who owns a white '57-D 'bird with white upholstery. He said OCTC came to his attention through Frank Stubbs. It should be noted that even on this cold wintery day, Jack drove his '57 to this event. Kudos!
In the spirit of the season, Santa had donated a couple of nice surprise giveaways that were then presented to the lucky winners of a true-false trivia quiz. First place was won by Janice Westfall who received a $75 Costco gift card. Second place went to Jon Hanson who won a large, ornament-filled wreath. This was not an easy quiz. Congratulations to both of you.
Our high-spirited gift exchange that followed was filled with joy, frustration, heartache and laughter. With the large number of top quality gifts, it's no wonder there was an awful lot of “stealing” going on. Tools, unique lighting products, a bag filled with premium chocolates, and holiday-themed stuffed animals/characters were among the many great choices. Vickie Willson even modeled for us part of the gift she received, a brightly-lit reindeer nose. competing this year with Rudolph for that coveted front spot on Santa's sleigh.
This holiday party was such a super way to end our Olympic Club calendar. A sincere thank you to all who joined us, and a special thanks to those who brought unwrapped toys for the Marines' “Toys for Tots” campaign. It's a heart-warming and thoughtful gesture. Best wishes to all our members for happiness in the coming year.
Van
OUR 2024 SCHEDULE OFFERS FUN EVENTS
November 2023
On Sunday, November 12, our Calendar of Events Planning & Business Meeting was held at the home of Frank and Cathy Stubbs in Newcastle. Over the past several years, Frank and Cathy have openly welcomed us to attend a variety of events at their home, and we sincerely appreciate their gracious hospitality. It was a well-attended gathering with folks arriving early to allow some time for greetings and catching up on news. It was great to see and visit with some long-time Olympic members we haven't seen for awhile, including Chuck and Julie Birch, Jon and Susan Hanson, and Donna Wisenburg. A nice reunion with friends.
The meeting was called to order by President Frank Stubbs shortly after 1:00 pm. The key element of our meeting was discussing a variety of ideas to fill our monthly calendar of events for next year. Nancy Burress and Vickie Willson introduced a suggestion that our club take a turn at hosting a multi-club event, following the footsteps of what the Rose City T'bird Club did in Oregon this past year. It would be extending invitations to classic T'bird clubs along the west coast (Washington, Oregon, California, and British Columbia), but would also welcome T'bird club members from other states. After a lively discussion, the idea for OCTC to host a multi-club event next September was approved. Nancy and Vickie are among our most active, involved members and they will be leading us in this task. But it will take a shared effort among our membership in order for this venture to be successful. Please offer to lend a hand as more information becomes available
.
As the meeting continued, a super selection of varied events were picked to fill our 2024 calendar, along with volunteers stepping forward to host them. Hopefully, there will be many among them that peak your interest and that you'll make plans to attend as many as you can. Unfortunately, since the pandemic, there's been a general decline in member turn-out for our monthly gatherings. Fingers crossed, now that we're back on track, we'll see more of our Olympic faithful joining in again
.
Part of the meeting included a short awards ceremony, handing out longevity pins and also the presentation of our club's “Allstrom All-Star Award.” The recipient of this award is voted on by the Executive Board to recognize a member or couple who have demonstrated outstanding service to our club during the past year. It was presented this year to Michael and Bonnie Hall who volunteered to host four of our 12 monthly events. Wow! This “above and beyond” gesture was certainly worthy of recognition. Thank
you Michael and Bonnie. Now let's see if you can beat your own record in 2024!!
Once the meeting adjourned, we turned our attention to yet another delicious potluck that included a variety of tasty main dishes, salads, fruit, appetizers, and a separate table filled with desserts. Needless to say, it wasn't filled for long. Thank you again to our hosts, Frank and Cathy, and to everyone who attended this meeting. It was productive and enjoyable.
We now look forward to seeing a big turn-out for our Christmas Party on Saturday, December 2nd. It's always a great way to kick start the holiday season.
Van
The meeting was called to order by President Frank Stubbs shortly after 1:00 pm. The key element of our meeting was discussing a variety of ideas to fill our monthly calendar of events for next year. Nancy Burress and Vickie Willson introduced a suggestion that our club take a turn at hosting a multi-club event, following the footsteps of what the Rose City T'bird Club did in Oregon this past year. It would be extending invitations to classic T'bird clubs along the west coast (Washington, Oregon, California, and British Columbia), but would also welcome T'bird club members from other states. After a lively discussion, the idea for OCTC to host a multi-club event next September was approved. Nancy and Vickie are among our most active, involved members and they will be leading us in this task. But it will take a shared effort among our membership in order for this venture to be successful. Please offer to lend a hand as more information becomes available
.
As the meeting continued, a super selection of varied events were picked to fill our 2024 calendar, along with volunteers stepping forward to host them. Hopefully, there will be many among them that peak your interest and that you'll make plans to attend as many as you can. Unfortunately, since the pandemic, there's been a general decline in member turn-out for our monthly gatherings. Fingers crossed, now that we're back on track, we'll see more of our Olympic faithful joining in again
.
Part of the meeting included a short awards ceremony, handing out longevity pins and also the presentation of our club's “Allstrom All-Star Award.” The recipient of this award is voted on by the Executive Board to recognize a member or couple who have demonstrated outstanding service to our club during the past year. It was presented this year to Michael and Bonnie Hall who volunteered to host four of our 12 monthly events. Wow! This “above and beyond” gesture was certainly worthy of recognition. Thank
you Michael and Bonnie. Now let's see if you can beat your own record in 2024!!
Once the meeting adjourned, we turned our attention to yet another delicious potluck that included a variety of tasty main dishes, salads, fruit, appetizers, and a separate table filled with desserts. Needless to say, it wasn't filled for long. Thank you again to our hosts, Frank and Cathy, and to everyone who attended this meeting. It was productive and enjoyable.
We now look forward to seeing a big turn-out for our Christmas Party on Saturday, December 2nd. It's always a great way to kick start the holiday season.
Van
2023 Presentation of Year Pins
Your membership in the Olympic Classic Thunderbird Club is important to all of us. In recognition of the years of membership, the Membership Chairman recognizes and presents year pins to members. These pins are presented in 5 year increments. Those present are able to collect their pins at that time. If you are not present, our policy is to have you pick up your awards at the next club event you attend. For those members living out-of-state the club will mail you your pins. At the November meeting, Membership Chairman, Frank Stubbs, recognized the following members:
5 YEARS 30 YEARS
Larry and Emily Muir Barry and Linda Birch
Janice and Phillip Westfall John and Pam Lowney
10 YEARS 35 YEARS
Ron and Barbara Sanders Mike and Bonnie Hall
15 YEARS 45 YEARS
Martin and Diana Antrim Bill and Linda Fischer
Mel and Linda Lang
Doug and Patty Wanamaker 50 YEARS
Jean Cournoyer
25 YEARS Frank and Cathy Stubbs
Bruce Eardley
Vickie Willson
5 YEARS 30 YEARS
Larry and Emily Muir Barry and Linda Birch
Janice and Phillip Westfall John and Pam Lowney
10 YEARS 35 YEARS
Ron and Barbara Sanders Mike and Bonnie Hall
15 YEARS 45 YEARS
Martin and Diana Antrim Bill and Linda Fischer
Mel and Linda Lang
Doug and Patty Wanamaker 50 YEARS
Jean Cournoyer
25 YEARS Frank and Cathy Stubbs
Bruce Eardley
Vickie Willson
DELDUCA FARM TOUR
OCTOBER 2023
As they approached retirement Don and Debbie Del Duca decided they wanted to give-up life in the fastlane and began looking for a small farm. The search took a while, and finally when they settled on what they felt was the perfect farm in Pe Ell where the real estate broker tried to talk them out of it. Persistence paid off, and they bought their retirement project and future home. After several years of dedication and hard work, they now have a restored hobby farm and love to share it with others.
On Saturday morning, October 14th, a group of us met at a Starbucks in Parkland to begin our driving adventure to Pe Ell. The group included Frank, Cathy and Kyle Stubbs with their T-Birds, and Van and Lynn Victor, Vickie Willson, Martin Antrim and Dan and Fran Del Duca in the daily drivers. Also, joining us were Jerry and Terri Little with their 1957 Corvette. The morning started a little misty, but as we drove the backroads toward Pe Ell, the skies cleared and we enjoyed the fall colors.
After arriving at the Del Duca farm introductions were made, and the tour started with Debbie leading us to the first stop where she had a holiday decorated table set-up beverages and snacks. The tour then proceeded into Don’s collections of tools, implements, engines, etc. From there we moved through Don’s pride and joy machine shop where Don still keeps active taking in side jobs. Outside he had set-up some several small “hit and miss” engines that he started up and ran, mostly for the guys.
The old barn is a gambrel style barn which Don has spent hours restoring. The big open loft is primarily used to house Don’s wood working tools which are currently use to work on projects for the house like window frames. The main part of the barn houses tractors, wagons and other farm equipment—new and old.
Debbie enjoyed sharing with us the history of the farm and stories about the former occupants, including Uncle Harry. She has done a lot of research and it was as if she had known these people personally for many years. Her tour took us into the old canning and refrigeration building which she has painstakingly cleaned and restored . It is now decorated with many items you might find in old farmhouse kitchens. She also shared with usanother building she has cleaned out that houses furniture, toys and other items of the past. Local people and school children are often invited to tour the Del Duca farm. As a result, they have become a repository of sorts for relics locals have saved from the past, but no longer wish to keep. They try their best to find places to display and share these treasures with future visitors.
Their next project is restoring the old farm house. Before moving there, they did expand and put in a large bathroom. The kitchen still has a vintage combination wood /electric stove which is currently the centerpiece of Debbie’s kitchen. Since moving in she has now added a modern day oven and cooktop. For another time, it will be fun to see what Debbie and Don accomplish inhouse and what vintage wall coverings and flooring they choose to keep or discard.
Following our tour most of us returned to the town of Pe Ell for lunch before beginning the journey home. A huge thank you to Don and Debbie for their great hospitality and tour.
On Saturday morning, October 14th, a group of us met at a Starbucks in Parkland to begin our driving adventure to Pe Ell. The group included Frank, Cathy and Kyle Stubbs with their T-Birds, and Van and Lynn Victor, Vickie Willson, Martin Antrim and Dan and Fran Del Duca in the daily drivers. Also, joining us were Jerry and Terri Little with their 1957 Corvette. The morning started a little misty, but as we drove the backroads toward Pe Ell, the skies cleared and we enjoyed the fall colors.
After arriving at the Del Duca farm introductions were made, and the tour started with Debbie leading us to the first stop where she had a holiday decorated table set-up beverages and snacks. The tour then proceeded into Don’s collections of tools, implements, engines, etc. From there we moved through Don’s pride and joy machine shop where Don still keeps active taking in side jobs. Outside he had set-up some several small “hit and miss” engines that he started up and ran, mostly for the guys.
The old barn is a gambrel style barn which Don has spent hours restoring. The big open loft is primarily used to house Don’s wood working tools which are currently use to work on projects for the house like window frames. The main part of the barn houses tractors, wagons and other farm equipment—new and old.
Debbie enjoyed sharing with us the history of the farm and stories about the former occupants, including Uncle Harry. She has done a lot of research and it was as if she had known these people personally for many years. Her tour took us into the old canning and refrigeration building which she has painstakingly cleaned and restored . It is now decorated with many items you might find in old farmhouse kitchens. She also shared with usanother building she has cleaned out that houses furniture, toys and other items of the past. Local people and school children are often invited to tour the Del Duca farm. As a result, they have become a repository of sorts for relics locals have saved from the past, but no longer wish to keep. They try their best to find places to display and share these treasures with future visitors.
Their next project is restoring the old farm house. Before moving there, they did expand and put in a large bathroom. The kitchen still has a vintage combination wood /electric stove which is currently the centerpiece of Debbie’s kitchen. Since moving in she has now added a modern day oven and cooktop. For another time, it will be fun to see what Debbie and Don accomplish inhouse and what vintage wall coverings and flooring they choose to keep or discard.
Following our tour most of us returned to the town of Pe Ell for lunch before beginning the journey home. A huge thank you to Don and Debbie for their great hospitality and tour.
SOARING TO SUCCESS IN McMINNVILLE
McMinnville, Oregon was the site of our multi-club event held September 10-13, hosted by the Rose City Thunderbird Club. It's an ideal location because this small city with surrounding areas is filled with a variety of interesting attractions that include museums, shopping, restaurants, vineyards, wineries, and craft breweries. The Rose City folks prepared a thoughtful agenda of planned events, but also allowed enough leisure time to scope out things on our own. There were about 50 of us who attended, including club members from Oregon, Washington, California, Texas, New Jersey, and British Columbia. Representing our Olympic Club were Nancy Burress, Clarke and Wilma Hamm, George Lang, Dave Van Winkle, Van and Lynn Victor, and Vickie Willson. George also belongs to the Big “D” Little Birds in Texas, and Dave also belongs to Rose City. It should be noted that Frank and Cathy Stubbs had every intention to join us at this gathering, but in the early morning hours on the day they planned to leave, their former home that's located directly adjacent to their new home caught fire and was completely destroyed. The outbuildings on Frank and Cathy's property were also in serious danger until the fire scene was contained. Understandably, these circumstances took a toll and called for their attention. Fortunately, there were no fatalities or serious injuries to the people living in their former home.
Monday morning, we headed out for a tour of the Ken Austin Car Collection in Newberg. Ken was the very first Beaver Mascot for Oregon State University. His original costume was proudly displayed on a manikin. He was an amazing mechanic working on cars from when he was a teenager throughout his life. There are intake manifolds and headers stamped with the Austin name that he designed. Ken was an inventor; an entire wall held all of his plaques for all of his patents in the field of dentistry. He founded the largest privately owned dental manufacturing company in the United States. The cars were beautifully arranged with signs telling the history. Many had personal stories of how he acquired them or family history. Including old cars, newer ones, a logging truck, fire engine, oil truck and tractor, all very well preserved.
After spending a couple hours there we took a short drive to lunch at Nancy Jo's Handcrafted Burgers & Fries. A fifty's type diner with delicious burgers and awesome shakes. Great way to spend a day with T-Bird friends.
On Tuesday, a highlight of our groups scheduled events was a visit to the Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum which houses the world's largest wooden airplane, the “Spruce Goose”, along with many other historic aircraft and exhibits. The massive size of the Spruce Goose was conceived during World War II as a means to transport troops and equipment across the Atlantic Ocean. It was built with wood because of government restrictions on metal during the war. Howard Hughes was hired to design and build it. News reporters, believing it would never get off the ground, mockingly referred to it as the spruce goose, even though it was actually built with birch. Hughes proved reporters wrong when he took it for a flight on November 2, 1947. This is the only time it's been flown, and it remained in storage for several years. After that, it was on display in California near the Queen Mary until it found this permanent home in Oregon.
Another aircraft at the museum that deserves mention is the SR-71 Blackbird. It has a large dark sleek design that is well-suited for it’s mission of gathering surveillance and intelligence while traveling at over three times the speed of sound, Mach3+. Goodness! If it can go that fast, it must be powered by at least two 312 Y-block engines.
Our three day event came to a close with a no-host bar and buffett dinner the Michelbook Country Club. It was a feast of tasty appetizers, followed by entrees of prime rib and salmon along with a variety of salads, fruits, and vegetables. Everyone agreed it was delightful from start to finish in a setting filled with fun and friendly conversation. A real treat.
After our scheduled event was complete some of us stayed an extra night in North Portland to go to “Beaches”, a car show at Portland International Raceway. The event starts at 3:00 PM, the “featured cars” were T-Birds and Corvairs, an odd combination and we were outnumbered by them. This show was attended by well over 700 vehicles. It was fun to watch the drag races on the track, though none of us entered. A number of food trucks were on the site with everything from pizza to ice cream. Music was provided by a band on the stage, raffle prizes were given, a 50/50 raffle, and car awards handed out. A very enjoyable time visiting with old and new friends.
When the Rose City organizers were planning this multi-club event, they chose to not make it a typical car-focused out of “show and shines”, judging, and awards. This was an interesting decision and it turned out remarkably well. But given our general nature as classic car fanatics, what was the appeal for folks from across the country and Canada to attend an event with this type of format? The answer is simple. It’s not about the cars. It’s about the people and the lasting friendships that develop from the car connection. We all possess a mutual admiration for the legendary classic Thunderbird and this establishes a direct bond. The unity among us was clearly evident throughout this event. There was genuine interest as, information, news, and stories were shared with those we haven’t seen in a while. Clearly, the smiles on people’s faces and the joy in their voices said it all.
A perfect example of this bond or unity presented itself through a surprise announcement at our banquet. Al and Sally Brett, longtime classic T-Bird enthusiasts from British Columbia, were here in McMinnville celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary. By all accounts, this is a significant occasion. They had the option of choosing any number of places or locations to celebrate this milestone. How wonderful that they chose to spend it with us, their family of Thunderbird friends. Congratulations of Al and Sally, and our best wishes to them for many more.
These multi-club functions take a lot of advance planning and effort, along with organization and execution during the event itself. On behalf of the Olympic Club, we extend our sincere appreciation to the Rose City members who took on this task. Kudos for a job well done!
Wilma Hamm/Van Victor
Monday morning, we headed out for a tour of the Ken Austin Car Collection in Newberg. Ken was the very first Beaver Mascot for Oregon State University. His original costume was proudly displayed on a manikin. He was an amazing mechanic working on cars from when he was a teenager throughout his life. There are intake manifolds and headers stamped with the Austin name that he designed. Ken was an inventor; an entire wall held all of his plaques for all of his patents in the field of dentistry. He founded the largest privately owned dental manufacturing company in the United States. The cars were beautifully arranged with signs telling the history. Many had personal stories of how he acquired them or family history. Including old cars, newer ones, a logging truck, fire engine, oil truck and tractor, all very well preserved.
After spending a couple hours there we took a short drive to lunch at Nancy Jo's Handcrafted Burgers & Fries. A fifty's type diner with delicious burgers and awesome shakes. Great way to spend a day with T-Bird friends.
On Tuesday, a highlight of our groups scheduled events was a visit to the Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum which houses the world's largest wooden airplane, the “Spruce Goose”, along with many other historic aircraft and exhibits. The massive size of the Spruce Goose was conceived during World War II as a means to transport troops and equipment across the Atlantic Ocean. It was built with wood because of government restrictions on metal during the war. Howard Hughes was hired to design and build it. News reporters, believing it would never get off the ground, mockingly referred to it as the spruce goose, even though it was actually built with birch. Hughes proved reporters wrong when he took it for a flight on November 2, 1947. This is the only time it's been flown, and it remained in storage for several years. After that, it was on display in California near the Queen Mary until it found this permanent home in Oregon.
Another aircraft at the museum that deserves mention is the SR-71 Blackbird. It has a large dark sleek design that is well-suited for it’s mission of gathering surveillance and intelligence while traveling at over three times the speed of sound, Mach3+. Goodness! If it can go that fast, it must be powered by at least two 312 Y-block engines.
Our three day event came to a close with a no-host bar and buffett dinner the Michelbook Country Club. It was a feast of tasty appetizers, followed by entrees of prime rib and salmon along with a variety of salads, fruits, and vegetables. Everyone agreed it was delightful from start to finish in a setting filled with fun and friendly conversation. A real treat.
After our scheduled event was complete some of us stayed an extra night in North Portland to go to “Beaches”, a car show at Portland International Raceway. The event starts at 3:00 PM, the “featured cars” were T-Birds and Corvairs, an odd combination and we were outnumbered by them. This show was attended by well over 700 vehicles. It was fun to watch the drag races on the track, though none of us entered. A number of food trucks were on the site with everything from pizza to ice cream. Music was provided by a band on the stage, raffle prizes were given, a 50/50 raffle, and car awards handed out. A very enjoyable time visiting with old and new friends.
When the Rose City organizers were planning this multi-club event, they chose to not make it a typical car-focused out of “show and shines”, judging, and awards. This was an interesting decision and it turned out remarkably well. But given our general nature as classic car fanatics, what was the appeal for folks from across the country and Canada to attend an event with this type of format? The answer is simple. It’s not about the cars. It’s about the people and the lasting friendships that develop from the car connection. We all possess a mutual admiration for the legendary classic Thunderbird and this establishes a direct bond. The unity among us was clearly evident throughout this event. There was genuine interest as, information, news, and stories were shared with those we haven’t seen in a while. Clearly, the smiles on people’s faces and the joy in their voices said it all.
A perfect example of this bond or unity presented itself through a surprise announcement at our banquet. Al and Sally Brett, longtime classic T-Bird enthusiasts from British Columbia, were here in McMinnville celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary. By all accounts, this is a significant occasion. They had the option of choosing any number of places or locations to celebrate this milestone. How wonderful that they chose to spend it with us, their family of Thunderbird friends. Congratulations of Al and Sally, and our best wishes to them for many more.
These multi-club functions take a lot of advance planning and effort, along with organization and execution during the event itself. On behalf of the Olympic Club, we extend our sincere appreciation to the Rose City members who took on this task. Kudos for a job well done!
Wilma Hamm/Van Victor
LEAVENWORTH
August 2023
Last November at our annual planning meeting, new members, Kevin and Maureen Wilson, enthusiastically volunteered to plan an overnight event for 2023. Being new to Washington state, they are anxious to explore the many attractions in their new surroundings. For this event they proposed an overnight event to the scenic Bavarian town of Leavenworth. They spent several months and a couple of exploration trips putting this event together. It has been a number of years since Olympic club members have enjoyed an overnight trip in this fun little town, so the event was well attended.
On Tuesday, morning, August 8, 9 early birds arrived at the Starbucks in Monroe, with some arriving early for that extra coffee boost to start the day. Kevin gathered us all together to hand out maps and give an overview of our day’s driving trip over Highway 2 to Leavenworth. At 10:00 AM our wagon master, Kevin, got us on the road. Our first stop was Deception Falls. They have a nice easy loop trail to view the falls and take pictures. It was a great place to take a bathroom break and stretch our legs. Being an August event the weather was quite cooperative, so we had great views of the mountains over Stevens Pass and following the river on the east side.
Our next stop was the Squirrel Tree Inn for lunch. In the 1960’s two guys from Seattle purchased this property and set about remaking it. First they thought of an native American type motif, but then decided up a Bavarian theme to fit the scenic alps type landscape of the area. Their Bavarian theme led them to work with the revitalization of Leavenworth into the quaint Bavarian village as it is known today. Lunch was enjoyable and leisurely. Back on the road again, as we approached Leavenworth proper we experienced our first road construction of the day. Hope everyone with their tops down had on plenty of sun screen. While we waited, soaking up the rays, some of us were parked where we could enjoy watching part of Leavenworth’s new attraction, the Alpine Coaster at Leavenworth Adventure Park.
Our hotel for the night was the Orbetal Inn located just a couple of blocks off the main street downtown. The hotel did a great job of blocking off parking for all of our Little Birds. A couple of Birds managed to snag covered parking. We were at hotel and settled in for the most part when Van and Lynn Victor arrived in their truck. They chose the I-90/Blewett Pass route. Their road construction experiences made ours appear to be a walk in the park. That evening we were on our own for activities which included walks to the river, shopping, ice cream, dinner, with some enjoying the outdoor production of the “Sound of Music”. The Orbetal Inn had a nice deck with several private sitting areas where we were able to gather off and on throughout the evening.
Wednesday morning, everyone enjoyed a delightful takeout breakfast provided to us by the hotel. Many chose to meet and enjoy their breakfasts out front on picnic tables. This was our last gathering together before either choosing to head home, check out more stores and local attractions, or lounge around and enjoy another day and night in Leavenworth. To avoid the I-90/Blewett re-paving projects most of us opted to returned via Highway 2. On the way home some of us were in time to hit rain going up Stevens Pass, and had to stop and put up our tops. Over the mountains, though, and the weather cleared out. Of course, by then it was after lunchtime and the search was on to a place to stop. We choose to stop at the Mountain Inn Diner in Gold Bar for a late lunch. One of the waiters asked if there had been a T-Bird show because there was a Bird or two that stopped ahead of us. We all made a good choice for this dining stop.
Many thanks from all of us to Kevin and Maureen for their planning and organizing of this very fun event. I heard members asking what they are going to plan for 2024!
On Tuesday, morning, August 8, 9 early birds arrived at the Starbucks in Monroe, with some arriving early for that extra coffee boost to start the day. Kevin gathered us all together to hand out maps and give an overview of our day’s driving trip over Highway 2 to Leavenworth. At 10:00 AM our wagon master, Kevin, got us on the road. Our first stop was Deception Falls. They have a nice easy loop trail to view the falls and take pictures. It was a great place to take a bathroom break and stretch our legs. Being an August event the weather was quite cooperative, so we had great views of the mountains over Stevens Pass and following the river on the east side.
Our next stop was the Squirrel Tree Inn for lunch. In the 1960’s two guys from Seattle purchased this property and set about remaking it. First they thought of an native American type motif, but then decided up a Bavarian theme to fit the scenic alps type landscape of the area. Their Bavarian theme led them to work with the revitalization of Leavenworth into the quaint Bavarian village as it is known today. Lunch was enjoyable and leisurely. Back on the road again, as we approached Leavenworth proper we experienced our first road construction of the day. Hope everyone with their tops down had on plenty of sun screen. While we waited, soaking up the rays, some of us were parked where we could enjoy watching part of Leavenworth’s new attraction, the Alpine Coaster at Leavenworth Adventure Park.
Our hotel for the night was the Orbetal Inn located just a couple of blocks off the main street downtown. The hotel did a great job of blocking off parking for all of our Little Birds. A couple of Birds managed to snag covered parking. We were at hotel and settled in for the most part when Van and Lynn Victor arrived in their truck. They chose the I-90/Blewett Pass route. Their road construction experiences made ours appear to be a walk in the park. That evening we were on our own for activities which included walks to the river, shopping, ice cream, dinner, with some enjoying the outdoor production of the “Sound of Music”. The Orbetal Inn had a nice deck with several private sitting areas where we were able to gather off and on throughout the evening.
Wednesday morning, everyone enjoyed a delightful takeout breakfast provided to us by the hotel. Many chose to meet and enjoy their breakfasts out front on picnic tables. This was our last gathering together before either choosing to head home, check out more stores and local attractions, or lounge around and enjoy another day and night in Leavenworth. To avoid the I-90/Blewett re-paving projects most of us opted to returned via Highway 2. On the way home some of us were in time to hit rain going up Stevens Pass, and had to stop and put up our tops. Over the mountains, though, and the weather cleared out. Of course, by then it was after lunchtime and the search was on to a place to stop. We choose to stop at the Mountain Inn Diner in Gold Bar for a late lunch. One of the waiters asked if there had been a T-Bird show because there was a Bird or two that stopped ahead of us. We all made a good choice for this dining stop.
Many thanks from all of us to Kevin and Maureen for their planning and organizing of this very fun event. I heard members asking what they are going to plan for 2024!
Annual Picnic at Big Lake
July 2023
Twenty-three members gathered at Nancy Burress’ beautiful home on Big Lake for the annual OCTC picnic. Eight of those members came from Camano Island. They included new first time members Ron Greenridge and Deanne Carter, and Angela Mendolia and Mitchel Irwin. Also, joining from the Island were longtime members Chuck and Geri Kahler, and charter members, Clarke and Wilma Hamm. From Whidbey Island, was Mike Ball. Our long-distance attendees were Van and Lynn Victor making the trek from Tacoma. The group was rounded out by Vickie Willson, Mel and Linda Lang, Jon Hanson, Dan and Fran Del Duca, Kevin and Maureen Wilson, and Frank, Cathy and Kyle Stubbs.
The line up of colorful cars in front of Nancy’s house were quite the attraction to the neighborhood and all those driving by. In all there were twelve beautiful cars including 8 Little Birds, a Retro, a ‘57 Ranchero, a ‘62 Corvette and a Mustang.
About the time all had arrived and introductions made, the spread of food was put out. As in the past Nancy had volunteered to provide the main course and dessert. This year we were treated to Prime Rib followed by cheese cake. Those attending brought various delicious dishes to compliment the main dish and, of course, more desserts. It’s safe to say, no one went home hungry.
Following lunch, President Frank Stubbs, held a brief meeting to thank Nancy for her outstanding hospitality and to introduce new members and those we don’t see often. Members then continued the afternoon out front kicking tires, and on the deck enjoying the view and sharing stories.
A huge round of applause goes out to Nancy for hosting this annual event, many thanks yous to all of our members who attended.
The line up of colorful cars in front of Nancy’s house were quite the attraction to the neighborhood and all those driving by. In all there were twelve beautiful cars including 8 Little Birds, a Retro, a ‘57 Ranchero, a ‘62 Corvette and a Mustang.
About the time all had arrived and introductions made, the spread of food was put out. As in the past Nancy had volunteered to provide the main course and dessert. This year we were treated to Prime Rib followed by cheese cake. Those attending brought various delicious dishes to compliment the main dish and, of course, more desserts. It’s safe to say, no one went home hungry.
Following lunch, President Frank Stubbs, held a brief meeting to thank Nancy for her outstanding hospitality and to introduce new members and those we don’t see often. Members then continued the afternoon out front kicking tires, and on the deck enjoying the view and sharing stories.
A huge round of applause goes out to Nancy for hosting this annual event, many thanks yous to all of our members who attended.
OLD-TIME COLLECTABLES AND BRAND NEW RIDES
June 2023
On Tuesday, May 30th, a small group of Olympic Club members met at the Poodle Dog restaurant in Fife as the starting point for a fun back-roads driving trip that led us to the home of Glenn and Darlene Elhard near Graham where we toured their garage, shop, and rooms filled with wonderful “50s – 60s” memorabilia. Meeting at the Poodle Dog were our hosts, Michael and Bonnie Hall, who were joined by Vickie Willson, Cliff Holland, Martin Antrim, Chuck Birch, Van Victor, and Ron Bunn along with his friend Chris. This group arrived in a variety of vehicles that included an exciting blend from classic to brand-spanking new. As part of the classics, Michael and Bonnie showed up in their striking Starmist blue '57 E-bird, Van in that fancy Fiesta red '56, and Ron in his beautifully-modified silver '56. The modifications to Ron's car allow the look of a classic while offering the comfort features of a modern-day driver. It's a well done example displaying the best of both worlds. The brand new vehicles were driven to our event by Martin and by Chuck. Still fresh from the dealership, Martin arrived in his gunmetal gray 2023 Ford Maverick truck. This is Ford's entry of getting back to a smaller, mid-size truck, and they came up with a winner. It has a great look, it's priced right, and offers a lot of neat options. Chuck, not to be outdone, drove up in his new all-electric 2023 Hyundai Ionic. It is truly a sharp looking car, and will attract a lot of attention with its dazzling blue metallic finish. Chuck said he and Julie are taking it on an extended road trip through the southwestern U.S., and are planning to stop in Texas for a visit with our lifetime member, Bruce Eardley. We ask them to pass along many happy wishes from all of us.
When we arrived at the Elhard's home, we were welcomed to wander through and enjoy the memorabilia they have collected over the years. Items included a jukebox, phonograph players, a gas pump, gas station oil dispensers, and display cases filled with mementos. Glenn is a master at transforming rusty metal into works of art. Walls are decorated with beautiful display shelves that were converted from old car front-end/radiator casings. Amazing! In Glenn's shop, we saw that he is in the process of completing restoration work on a red and white Ford retractable that will no doubt be a showpiece. Just outside the shop was one of Glenn's completed restorations, a 1950 Ford two-door sedan. Henry Ford would be proud, but also envious of.
Once the tour was done, Glenn and Darlene joined our group as we drove a short distance to the Round Table Pizza restaurant at 160th and Meridian where we enjoyed a very tasty lunch of all-you-can-eat pizza and salad bar. A great variety of good food. And as a finishing treat, our meals were topped off with a delicious dessert pizza that tasted much like apple strudel. Definitely worth a second helping!
Sincere appreciation to Michael and Bonnie for their fine efforts in planning and hosting this event. It was thoroughly enjoyed by those who attended, but it was disheartening that more from our club didn't participate. Cathy Stubbs is very good about sending out event notices and reminders, then it's up to us to do our part to help OCTC thrive. There are some interesting events looking forward on this year's calendar. Please plan ahead and schedule some time to join us. Thank you.
Van
When we arrived at the Elhard's home, we were welcomed to wander through and enjoy the memorabilia they have collected over the years. Items included a jukebox, phonograph players, a gas pump, gas station oil dispensers, and display cases filled with mementos. Glenn is a master at transforming rusty metal into works of art. Walls are decorated with beautiful display shelves that were converted from old car front-end/radiator casings. Amazing! In Glenn's shop, we saw that he is in the process of completing restoration work on a red and white Ford retractable that will no doubt be a showpiece. Just outside the shop was one of Glenn's completed restorations, a 1950 Ford two-door sedan. Henry Ford would be proud, but also envious of.
Once the tour was done, Glenn and Darlene joined our group as we drove a short distance to the Round Table Pizza restaurant at 160th and Meridian where we enjoyed a very tasty lunch of all-you-can-eat pizza and salad bar. A great variety of good food. And as a finishing treat, our meals were topped off with a delicious dessert pizza that tasted much like apple strudel. Definitely worth a second helping!
Sincere appreciation to Michael and Bonnie for their fine efforts in planning and hosting this event. It was thoroughly enjoyed by those who attended, but it was disheartening that more from our club didn't participate. Cathy Stubbs is very good about sending out event notices and reminders, then it's up to us to do our part to help OCTC thrive. There are some interesting events looking forward on this year's calendar. Please plan ahead and schedule some time to join us. Thank you.
Van
AUTO MUSEUM IS A DAZZLE OF DREAM MACHINES
May 2023
On Saturday, June 24th, a group of 21 collector car enthusiasts met at the Roy Y Park 'n' Ride as the starting point for a back-roads driving tour along Hwy-507 that would lead us to our destination, the Jester Auto Museum and Event Center in Chehalis. Meeting at the Roy Y were our hosts, Michael and Bonnie Hall, who were joined by fellow club members Ron and Beth Bunn, Morris and Gayle Krause, Frank and Cathy Stubbs, Kyle Stubbs, Van and Lynn Victor, Vickie Willson, and Kevin and Maureen Wilson. It was also a treat for our group to be joined by Jerry and Terry Little from the Solid Axle Corvette Club, along with five other members from their club. They arrived in four beautiful vintage Corvettes; two 1957s, a 1961 and a 1963. They were a great addition to our caravan. It was also nice to visit with Morris and Gayle, long-time Olympic Club members who we haven't seen in quite some time.
The route we traveled took us through the small towns of Roy, Yelm, McKenna, Rainier, and Tenino. Our procession of classic cars received warm welcomes everywhere we drove, but they were especially well-received with smiles, waves, and comments from a large group of on-lookers as we passed through the main street of Yelm. Then we found out that this gathering of folks along the sidewalks were waiting for the start of Yelm's annual “Prairie Days” parade. They likely thought we were part of their planned parade festivities. It was fun for us and for the crowd.
Arriving at the museum, we found it an impressive site, housing a prestigious collection of 45 to 50 vehicles in two separate buildings. The vehicles range from early day antiques to a present day mid-engine Corvette. Many of them on display possess breath-taking quality. Two examples deserve mention. The first is a '57 Chevy pick-up that's been transformed into a work of art. Sculpted body work throughout with stunning interior and engine compartment. We were told the build cost was 1.2 million dollars. The second example is a '67 VW Double Cab Custom pick-up. It's a fun looking rare model that's been meticulously restored.
Chehalis is not a likely location for this absolute gem of a museum. The Hall's first learned about it when Bonnie was searching for locations to attend Christmas holiday craft fairs. She saw that the Event Center at this auto museum was going to host one of these holiday fairs. She mentioned it to Michael and they decided to check it out. All those who attended our event are sure glad they did.
Following the museum tour, we drove to Papa Bear's restaurant which is located on I-5 just south of Chehalis. Their menu features a wide variety of breakfast and lunch options. The service was good, the food was tasty, and we were seated in a separate room that allowed for friendly conversation.
This is the second month in a row that the Halls have hosted a successful event. They have earned our club's sincere thank you. We also thank the members from the solid axle Corvette club who joined us on this driving adventure. Their participation helped to make it enjoyable.
Van
The route we traveled took us through the small towns of Roy, Yelm, McKenna, Rainier, and Tenino. Our procession of classic cars received warm welcomes everywhere we drove, but they were especially well-received with smiles, waves, and comments from a large group of on-lookers as we passed through the main street of Yelm. Then we found out that this gathering of folks along the sidewalks were waiting for the start of Yelm's annual “Prairie Days” parade. They likely thought we were part of their planned parade festivities. It was fun for us and for the crowd.
Arriving at the museum, we found it an impressive site, housing a prestigious collection of 45 to 50 vehicles in two separate buildings. The vehicles range from early day antiques to a present day mid-engine Corvette. Many of them on display possess breath-taking quality. Two examples deserve mention. The first is a '57 Chevy pick-up that's been transformed into a work of art. Sculpted body work throughout with stunning interior and engine compartment. We were told the build cost was 1.2 million dollars. The second example is a '67 VW Double Cab Custom pick-up. It's a fun looking rare model that's been meticulously restored.
Chehalis is not a likely location for this absolute gem of a museum. The Hall's first learned about it when Bonnie was searching for locations to attend Christmas holiday craft fairs. She saw that the Event Center at this auto museum was going to host one of these holiday fairs. She mentioned it to Michael and they decided to check it out. All those who attended our event are sure glad they did.
Following the museum tour, we drove to Papa Bear's restaurant which is located on I-5 just south of Chehalis. Their menu features a wide variety of breakfast and lunch options. The service was good, the food was tasty, and we were seated in a separate room that allowed for friendly conversation.
This is the second month in a row that the Halls have hosted a successful event. They have earned our club's sincere thank you. We also thank the members from the solid axle Corvette club who joined us on this driving adventure. Their participation helped to make it enjoyable.
Van
THUNDERBIRD APPRECIATION DAY
May 2023
Thunderbird Appreciation Day is an annual event where all Thunderbird owners are encouraged to drive their Thunderbirds and share them with all. To celebrate this day members of the Olympic Classic Thunderbird Club were invited to take their little birds on a drive and stop in at the Renton Mocha and Motors. This cruise-in is held every Sunday (weather providing) in the parking lot at the New Life Church on Maple Valley Highway.
As is par for the course, the past week had been sunny and warm until Sunday rolled around. Fortunately, the weather didn’t stop five of our local T-Birds from attending the show. Those who put in an appearance included Larry and Grace Ostrom, Dan and Fran Del Duca, Kyle Stubbs, Cathy Stubbs, and Frank Stubbs. The regular attendees at this cruise-in are used to seeing one or two Birds, but five in one place brought a lot of attention.
After visiting for a while and looking at the other cars, we hopped in our Birds with their tops down and cruised to the Cloud 9 in Newport Hills for burgers and shakes. Again, 5 Birds in one lot brought out the spectators with their phone cameras in hand. Our colorful display was truly appreciated by many on this special day. Hopefully, some other members took your cars out for a drive. If you have pictures, please send them to Cathy to share in a future newsletter.
As is par for the course, the past week had been sunny and warm until Sunday rolled around. Fortunately, the weather didn’t stop five of our local T-Birds from attending the show. Those who put in an appearance included Larry and Grace Ostrom, Dan and Fran Del Duca, Kyle Stubbs, Cathy Stubbs, and Frank Stubbs. The regular attendees at this cruise-in are used to seeing one or two Birds, but five in one place brought a lot of attention.
After visiting for a while and looking at the other cars, we hopped in our Birds with their tops down and cruised to the Cloud 9 in Newport Hills for burgers and shakes. Again, 5 Birds in one lot brought out the spectators with their phone cameras in hand. Our colorful display was truly appreciated by many on this special day. Hopefully, some other members took your cars out for a drive. If you have pictures, please send them to Cathy to share in a future newsletter.
2023 APRIL BREAKFAST, TOUR AND TREATS
Llamas and Donkeys and Sheep, Oh My!!
On Friday, April 21st, a large group from our club toured the Sammamish Animal Sanctuary. Meeting for breakfast at Jay Berry’s restaurant were Lynn and Van Victor, Frank and Cathy Stubbs, Dan and Fran Del Duca, Ward and Sue Luhman, and Vickie Willson.
Then it was the long (LOL) trip about a block to the sanctuary, where we met up with Kevin and Maureen Wilson and new members Dan and Jeri Reiner. The sanctuary works on a donation and volunteer basis. At the entry were small buckets of veggies available for purchase for $5, but many thanks to our member Lynn Victor who brought two large bags of carrots and a bag of apples for us to feed the animals – and boy were they happy to see us, or rather our food. One of their two cows had a cast on his leg but got up on his feet to meet us at the fence for an apple snack. There were several pens containing rabbits, chickens, geese, pigs, mini horses, and horses for us to enjoy seeing without feeding due to possible disposition issues, and pens with the llamas, donkeys, sheep, and goats that we were more than free to enter for more close-up feeding.
A few of us had the opportunity to talk with the organizer who explained a bit more about how these animals came to live with her as well as their future and some of the other functions that are available here. None of these animals will ever be sold or sent to another facility; they will all be able to live out the rest of their lives in this caring sanctuary. We saw a goat whose hind leg was deformed and someone had created a prosthetic leg for her, which allowed her to move about with the rest of the goats and share in the food handouts. That and the cow with a cast on his leg made it very obvious to us how much these wonderful people care for their abused and neglected animals. For those of you who are adventurous they offer goat yoga. I think I’ll pass, but I must share that the goats were very friendly and played happily with a few small children in their pen. They also have summer day camps for young kids. This offers a great opportunity for city kids to get to know something about barnyard and farm animals that they otherwise wouldn’t be able to learn about by feeding and grooming them.
Following our fun feeding the animals we all took the short drive to the Stubbs’ house where Frank and Cathy fed the human animals strawberry shortcake. Yum! There was plenty of great conversations going on, and I do believe that everyone had a great time not only at the sanctuary but also getting to know each other and our newer members a little better.
Vickie
Joke of the day:
Do you know why chicken coops only have two doors?
Because if they had four they’d be chicken sedans.
On Friday, April 21st, a large group from our club toured the Sammamish Animal Sanctuary. Meeting for breakfast at Jay Berry’s restaurant were Lynn and Van Victor, Frank and Cathy Stubbs, Dan and Fran Del Duca, Ward and Sue Luhman, and Vickie Willson.
Then it was the long (LOL) trip about a block to the sanctuary, where we met up with Kevin and Maureen Wilson and new members Dan and Jeri Reiner. The sanctuary works on a donation and volunteer basis. At the entry were small buckets of veggies available for purchase for $5, but many thanks to our member Lynn Victor who brought two large bags of carrots and a bag of apples for us to feed the animals – and boy were they happy to see us, or rather our food. One of their two cows had a cast on his leg but got up on his feet to meet us at the fence for an apple snack. There were several pens containing rabbits, chickens, geese, pigs, mini horses, and horses for us to enjoy seeing without feeding due to possible disposition issues, and pens with the llamas, donkeys, sheep, and goats that we were more than free to enter for more close-up feeding.
A few of us had the opportunity to talk with the organizer who explained a bit more about how these animals came to live with her as well as their future and some of the other functions that are available here. None of these animals will ever be sold or sent to another facility; they will all be able to live out the rest of their lives in this caring sanctuary. We saw a goat whose hind leg was deformed and someone had created a prosthetic leg for her, which allowed her to move about with the rest of the goats and share in the food handouts. That and the cow with a cast on his leg made it very obvious to us how much these wonderful people care for their abused and neglected animals. For those of you who are adventurous they offer goat yoga. I think I’ll pass, but I must share that the goats were very friendly and played happily with a few small children in their pen. They also have summer day camps for young kids. This offers a great opportunity for city kids to get to know something about barnyard and farm animals that they otherwise wouldn’t be able to learn about by feeding and grooming them.
Following our fun feeding the animals we all took the short drive to the Stubbs’ house where Frank and Cathy fed the human animals strawberry shortcake. Yum! There was plenty of great conversations going on, and I do believe that everyone had a great time not only at the sanctuary but also getting to know each other and our newer members a little better.
Vickie
Joke of the day:
Do you know why chicken coops only have two doors?
Because if they had four they’d be chicken sedans.
2023 GLITTERING GLASS AND GARDEN
When thinking about an outing to visit the Chihuly Garden and Glass at the Seattle Center, the first thing one considers is the trip into the “big city”, and the next is the entrance cost which to many is a bit pricey. Rest assured, though, the experience at least for us first-timers was worth it. Sixteen T-Birders and guests, including Shelly Luhman and friend, Stephanie, and Ray and Judy Phillip, gathered in the sun outside Chihuly where we purchased our tickets via electronic kiosks. The tour of Chihuly Garden and Glass is self-guided, and they do have an audio guide you can access with your smartphone—great for those who leave home without their phones. With phones in camera mode, we began our tour.
Chihuly has 8 galleries, 3 drawing walls, and a garden. Dale Chihuly is a master at taking glass sculptures and turning them into art. The building is 4500 square feet and built off of the old-time conservatories so there is a lot of light reflecting through the colored, but transparent and opaque glass. Each gallery represents different themes such as vases, chandeliers, glass baskets, boats, and aquatic life, and includes some works he has created in the past for other venues. In the basket room, it is explained how Chihuly looked at the structure and weaving of Indian baskets, noting how they sag and bulge over years of use. He then created glass baskets displaying these same features. On one wall the smaller pieces are inter-mixed with authentic baskets. Another wall features a collection of colorful hand-woven Indian blankets. The Sealife Room features a huge brilliant blue and white tower sculpture intermixed with various sea life. Moving on there is what appears to be a colorful glass garden, and from there the glass boats, chandeliers, and beautiful fluted vases infused with many different colors. The Glasshouse is a 40-foot-tall conservatory-type structure that displays a 100-foot-long glass sculpture in the color pallet of reds, oranges, yellows, and amber.
If the indoor displays weren't enough, we then toured the outdoor garden. The garden is mostly planted with northwest-type shrubs and flowers and had glass art scattered about. Amongst the spring blooms, there were dancing cattails, colorful orbs, and the 20-foot Viola Crystal Tower.
After our tour, we all met and ventured into the newly opened “The Bar” for lunch. While we couldn’t all gather at one table, they did their best to seat all sixteen of us in one area. Chihuly is an avid collector of “stuff”, and 25 of his collections are displayed throughout The Bar. Hung from the ceiling were many accordions fanned out like floating birds. On the walls, there were colorful Bakelite radios, bottle openers, ceramic collections, and coffee urns, shaving brushes. Each table had glass tops displaying smaller collections including, tin noisemakers, cameras, miniature shoes, etc. While not extensive the lunch menu seemed to have something for everyone including small bites, salads, soup, sliders, and fish and chips. The fish and chips were a big hit.
A big thank you to Ward and Sue Luhman for planning this event. I think most would agree while not collector cars the experience was worth the cost of the tickets and the trip into the “big city”.
Chihuly has 8 galleries, 3 drawing walls, and a garden. Dale Chihuly is a master at taking glass sculptures and turning them into art. The building is 4500 square feet and built off of the old-time conservatories so there is a lot of light reflecting through the colored, but transparent and opaque glass. Each gallery represents different themes such as vases, chandeliers, glass baskets, boats, and aquatic life, and includes some works he has created in the past for other venues. In the basket room, it is explained how Chihuly looked at the structure and weaving of Indian baskets, noting how they sag and bulge over years of use. He then created glass baskets displaying these same features. On one wall the smaller pieces are inter-mixed with authentic baskets. Another wall features a collection of colorful hand-woven Indian blankets. The Sealife Room features a huge brilliant blue and white tower sculpture intermixed with various sea life. Moving on there is what appears to be a colorful glass garden, and from there the glass boats, chandeliers, and beautiful fluted vases infused with many different colors. The Glasshouse is a 40-foot-tall conservatory-type structure that displays a 100-foot-long glass sculpture in the color pallet of reds, oranges, yellows, and amber.
If the indoor displays weren't enough, we then toured the outdoor garden. The garden is mostly planted with northwest-type shrubs and flowers and had glass art scattered about. Amongst the spring blooms, there were dancing cattails, colorful orbs, and the 20-foot Viola Crystal Tower.
After our tour, we all met and ventured into the newly opened “The Bar” for lunch. While we couldn’t all gather at one table, they did their best to seat all sixteen of us in one area. Chihuly is an avid collector of “stuff”, and 25 of his collections are displayed throughout The Bar. Hung from the ceiling were many accordions fanned out like floating birds. On the walls, there were colorful Bakelite radios, bottle openers, ceramic collections, and coffee urns, shaving brushes. Each table had glass tops displaying smaller collections including, tin noisemakers, cameras, miniature shoes, etc. While not extensive the lunch menu seemed to have something for everyone including small bites, salads, soup, sliders, and fish and chips. The fish and chips were a big hit.
A big thank you to Ward and Sue Luhman for planning this event. I think most would agree while not collector cars the experience was worth the cost of the tickets and the trip into the “big city”.
FEBRUARY MUSEUM TOUR AND LUNCH OUT
MUSEUM DISPLAY EVOKES CHILDHOOD MEMORIES
On Sunday, February 12, a small but enthusiastic group of Olympic Club members toured the Washington State History Museum in Tacoma. In attendance were Michael and Bonnie Hall, Jon and Susan Hanson, Ward and Sue Luhman, Frank and Cathy Stubbs, Kyle Stubbs, Van and Lynn Victor, Vickie Willson, and Donna Wisenburg. Our numbers may have been down some because it was inadvertently scheduled on Super Bowl Sunday, but the time frame actually worked out all right because everyone got back home before the game started.
This museum's exhibits are impressively displayed on several floors. Among them are depictions of our State's Indian heritage, scenes of early settlements, the development of salmon, logging, and apple industries, the dam projects at Bonneville and Grand Coulee, and a dazzling new exhibit featuring the history of roller skating in Washington. This new exhibit doesn't require a skate “key” for entry, and it welcomes everyone from “high rollers” to “big wheels.”
The museum is set up as a self-guided tour, and our members ventured off to explore the various points of interest. As for myself, I was emotionally moved by the model railroad exhibit that is so beautifully displayed on the fifth floor. It is said to be the largest one in Washington but, in addition to the trains and endless track, my attention focused on the accurate details of the scenery, structures, and buildings that serve as an integral part of this 1950s-era display. It frames an uncanny replica of what Tacoma looked
like back then. I was born and raised in Tacoma during this period, and it brought back special childhood memories of this city's “old town” waterfront. I was particularly drawn to a remarkable reproduction of one of Tacoma's landmark restaurants, the Top of the Ocean. I remember my parents taking our family to this restaurant for special occasions and Sunday buffets. The food was good, but it was the distinctive looks that made it so appealing. The Top of the Ocean was built to resemble a docked ocean liner, constructed by an actual boat company in 1946. It soon became a hotspot for locals and could accommodate over 700 patrons. Unfortunately, in 1977, this restaurant was deliberately set ablaze by a disgruntled customer who had been ejected by the staff for drunk and disorderly conduct. The arsonist was subsequently identified, arrested, and convicted for this crime, but the restaurant was completely destroyed. Now gone, it remains a significant memory of old Tacoma's landscape.
After completing the museum tour, the group drove a short distance to The Old Spaghetti Factory where Donna had arranged for us to have lunch. The food was very good, and our server did an excellent job from start to spumoni!
Donna, Lynn, and I appreciate and thank those who attended our event, helping to make it such an enjoyable day.
Van
This museum's exhibits are impressively displayed on several floors. Among them are depictions of our State's Indian heritage, scenes of early settlements, the development of salmon, logging, and apple industries, the dam projects at Bonneville and Grand Coulee, and a dazzling new exhibit featuring the history of roller skating in Washington. This new exhibit doesn't require a skate “key” for entry, and it welcomes everyone from “high rollers” to “big wheels.”
The museum is set up as a self-guided tour, and our members ventured off to explore the various points of interest. As for myself, I was emotionally moved by the model railroad exhibit that is so beautifully displayed on the fifth floor. It is said to be the largest one in Washington but, in addition to the trains and endless track, my attention focused on the accurate details of the scenery, structures, and buildings that serve as an integral part of this 1950s-era display. It frames an uncanny replica of what Tacoma looked
like back then. I was born and raised in Tacoma during this period, and it brought back special childhood memories of this city's “old town” waterfront. I was particularly drawn to a remarkable reproduction of one of Tacoma's landmark restaurants, the Top of the Ocean. I remember my parents taking our family to this restaurant for special occasions and Sunday buffets. The food was good, but it was the distinctive looks that made it so appealing. The Top of the Ocean was built to resemble a docked ocean liner, constructed by an actual boat company in 1946. It soon became a hotspot for locals and could accommodate over 700 patrons. Unfortunately, in 1977, this restaurant was deliberately set ablaze by a disgruntled customer who had been ejected by the staff for drunk and disorderly conduct. The arsonist was subsequently identified, arrested, and convicted for this crime, but the restaurant was completely destroyed. Now gone, it remains a significant memory of old Tacoma's landscape.
After completing the museum tour, the group drove a short distance to The Old Spaghetti Factory where Donna had arranged for us to have lunch. The food was very good, and our server did an excellent job from start to spumoni!
Donna, Lynn, and I appreciate and thank those who attended our event, helping to make it such an enjoyable day.
Van
OTHER PAST EVENTS
JANUARY BUSINESS MEETING AND LUNCH OUT
2023 STARTS WITH A PRODUCTIVE BUSINESS MEETING
Thank you to those who attended our January 22nd business meeting and election of officers which was held once again at the Golden Steer restaurant in Kent. A sincere appreciation to Michael Hall for making the arrangements with the restaurant because they provide us a comfortable room with tasty food and good service. It was really nice to visit with Jon and Susan Hanson, long-time members who we haven't seen in a while It was also great to see Cliff Holland in attendance, looking like he's recovering well from a recent hip replacement. Also overheard that Vickie Willson is heading to Florida very soon in search of some warmer weather and to take in the Daytona 500. Forgot to ask if she has her “Screaming Yellow” Mustang convertible entered in the race.
As we finished our meals, President Frank Stubbs called the meeting to order. The purpose of this meeting was to elect club officers and trustees. Everyone who was eligible to serve for another year in their respective positions agreed to do so. With that, there was only one vacancy, a Trustee spot that had been held by Mel Lang for the past two years. Volunteering to fill this vacancy was Ron Bunn. The slate of officers/trustees, including Ron, were elected by unanimous vote. Thank you to Ron for his willingness to serve the club and a note of thanks to Mel for his past service.
A motion was made at the meeting to elevate the membership status of Larry and Emily Muir from Associate members to full Active/Family membership. Larry and Emily have been Associate members in good standing since 2018, and our club's recent by-laws revision allows for this designation change as long as they have belonged to OCTC for a minimum of three years. The motion passed and was voted on with unanimous approval. Congratulations to Larry and Emily!
As part of the meeting's business, we heard a positive Treasurer's report. We also had a discussion and approval for an insurance policy that will serve as coverage during our monthly outings or other club-sanctioned events. In addition, Cathy Stubbs offered updated information about two Interesting out-of-state road trips that are scheduled for this year. The “Thunderbird Extravaganza II” in Sacramento is set for June 2-4, and the “NW Thunderbird Gathering” at Hood River, Oregon, is set for August 27-30. It will be hosted by Rose City. More information will follow in upcoming newsletters.
We now look forward to our next scheduled event at the Washington State History Museum in Tacoma on Sunday, February 12. See the notice in this issue, and please plan to attend.
Van
As we finished our meals, President Frank Stubbs called the meeting to order. The purpose of this meeting was to elect club officers and trustees. Everyone who was eligible to serve for another year in their respective positions agreed to do so. With that, there was only one vacancy, a Trustee spot that had been held by Mel Lang for the past two years. Volunteering to fill this vacancy was Ron Bunn. The slate of officers/trustees, including Ron, were elected by unanimous vote. Thank you to Ron for his willingness to serve the club and a note of thanks to Mel for his past service.
A motion was made at the meeting to elevate the membership status of Larry and Emily Muir from Associate members to full Active/Family membership. Larry and Emily have been Associate members in good standing since 2018, and our club's recent by-laws revision allows for this designation change as long as they have belonged to OCTC for a minimum of three years. The motion passed and was voted on with unanimous approval. Congratulations to Larry and Emily!
As part of the meeting's business, we heard a positive Treasurer's report. We also had a discussion and approval for an insurance policy that will serve as coverage during our monthly outings or other club-sanctioned events. In addition, Cathy Stubbs offered updated information about two Interesting out-of-state road trips that are scheduled for this year. The “Thunderbird Extravaganza II” in Sacramento is set for June 2-4, and the “NW Thunderbird Gathering” at Hood River, Oregon, is set for August 27-30. It will be hosted by Rose City. More information will follow in upcoming newsletters.
We now look forward to our next scheduled event at the Washington State History Museum in Tacoma on Sunday, February 12. See the notice in this issue, and please plan to attend.
Van
2022 PAST EVENTS
2022 HOLIDAY PARTY
Gifts Galore and Festive Fun
On Saturday afternoon, December 3, a joyful group of Olympic T'birders gathered at the Golden Steer restaurant in Kent 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.
Even though our numbers were down some from previous years, it was nice to see a mix of long-time members along with newer ones. Among those attending were Jerry and Becky Cline who made the trip across the Cascades from their home in Chelan. Jerry said that because of weather conditions, they experienced delays and very slow traffic over much of the pass. Goodness! We appreciate their dedicated effort. It was also interesting to see Chuck Birch arriving at our event on this cold winter day dressed in a short-sleeved Hawaiian shirt. But there could be a good reason for this. He and Julie were leaving the next day for Cabo San Lucas, so maybe Chuck wanted to set the mood for their upcoming vacation. Safe and warm travels, you two.
The food and service at the Golden Steer were very good, with the staff doing their best to accommodate our needs. While waiting for our food orders to arrive, the group was invited to take part in a trivia quiz, with the winner receiving a $75 Costco gift card that was donated by Santa. The lucky winner of this quiz was Diana Antrim. It deserves mention that Diana also won the trivia challenge we held last year. She seems to have a real knack for this. The second place prize, a very nice holiday-themed outdoor mat, was won by Frank Stubbs. Congratulations to both Diana and Frank!
After finishing our meals, a high-spirited, entertaining gift exchange took place. There were a number of top-quality gifts that included a framed work of art, boxes of See's dark chocolates, T'bird models and puzzles, specialty dipping sauces, stuffed animals, and a uniquely-shaped Christmas ornament that had Dan DelDuca smiling ear-to-ear. No doubt it's placed front and center on the DelDuca's tree.
Our Christmas holiday get-together is a fun, enjoyable way to end our Olympic Club year, and a great way to start this festive season. A sincere thank you to all who attended, and a heartfelt appreciation to all those who donated unwrapped toys for the Marines' Toys for Tots campaign. It is truly a worthy cause.
Best wishes to all our members for a new year filled with happiness, good health, and wonderful Thunderbird happenings.
Van
NOVEMBER BUSINESS MEETING AND IMPROVED CLUB BY-LAWS
WONDERFUL EVENTS FOR 2023 AND IMPROVED CLUB BY-LAWS
On Sunday, November 13, our Calendar of Events Planning and Business meeting was held at the home of Frank and Cathy Stubbs in Newcastle. It has become a long-standing Olympic Club tradition to hold this event at Frank and Cathy's, and their gracious hospitality is truly appreciated.
It was a well-attended gathering with folks arriving early to allow some time for greetings and catching up before the start. The meeting itself was called to order by President Frank Stubbs shortly after 1:00 pm. As part of old business, the By-Laws Review Committee presented their recommendations for revisions and upgrades, as well as cosmetic improvements to enhance clarity. Each Article of the by-laws where revisions were recommended was discussed, considered, and approved by those in attendance. Key elements of our newly adopted by-laws include enhanced status for Associate Memberships, removal of restrictions for holding officer positions, and expanding voting at meetings to include in-person, by telephone, and by online conferences. These revisions will better serve our membership and the function of our club.
The meeting's agenda then turned to a discussion of choosing from a variety of suggested ideas for next year's calendar of events. From the proposals that were considered, a great list of events was approved, along with volunteers stepping forward to host them. On behalf of the trustees, we are grateful to all the members who submitted ideas and to all who are willing to help plan these events. A note of recognition goes to Larry and Grace Ostrom and to Kevin and Maureen Wilson. These two couples are among our newest members and were among the first to offer their help. A kind gesture indeed. Please look over our complete 2023 schedule in this issue. Hopefully, there are several here that will peak your interest, and you'll make plans to attend as many as you can.
Part of the meeting included a short awards ceremony, handing out longevity pins, and also the presentation of our club's “Allstrom All-Star Award.” The recipient of this award is voted on by the Executive Board to honor a member who has demonstrated devoted or outstanding service to our club during the past year. It was presented this year to Cathy Stubbs who volunteered to serve as our new newsletter editor and to serve on the By-Laws Review Committee. She also teamed up with Frank to host two of our monthly events. Thank you, Cathy, for your ongoing dedication to OCTC.
Once the meeting adjourned, we turned our attention to yet another delightful potluck. Among the highlights, this time was a delicious chocolate cake that commemorated OCTC's belated 50th Anniversary which was officially back in 2020. The delay in celebrating was due to the pandemic. A sincere thank you goes to everyone who attended this meeting. It was very productive and enjoyable. We're now looking forward to seeing everyone at our Christmas Party on Saturday, December 3.
Van
On Sunday, November 13, our Calendar of Events Planning and Business meeting was held at the home of Frank and Cathy Stubbs in Newcastle. It has become a long-standing Olympic Club tradition to hold this event at Frank and Cathy's, and their gracious hospitality is truly appreciated.
It was a well-attended gathering with folks arriving early to allow some time for greetings and catching up before the start. The meeting itself was called to order by President Frank Stubbs shortly after 1:00 pm. As part of old business, the By-Laws Review Committee presented their recommendations for revisions and upgrades, as well as cosmetic improvements to enhance clarity. Each Article of the by-laws where revisions were recommended was discussed, considered, and approved by those in attendance. Key elements of our newly adopted by-laws include enhanced status for Associate Memberships, removal of restrictions for holding officer positions, and expanding voting at meetings to include in-person, by telephone, and by online conferences. These revisions will better serve our membership and the function of our club.
The meeting's agenda then turned to a discussion of choosing from a variety of suggested ideas for next year's calendar of events. From the proposals that were considered, a great list of events was approved, along with volunteers stepping forward to host them. On behalf of the trustees, we are grateful to all the members who submitted ideas and to all who are willing to help plan these events. A note of recognition goes to Larry and Grace Ostrom and to Kevin and Maureen Wilson. These two couples are among our newest members and were among the first to offer their help. A kind gesture indeed. Please look over our complete 2023 schedule in this issue. Hopefully, there are several here that will peak your interest, and you'll make plans to attend as many as you can.
Part of the meeting included a short awards ceremony, handing out longevity pins, and also the presentation of our club's “Allstrom All-Star Award.” The recipient of this award is voted on by the Executive Board to honor a member who has demonstrated devoted or outstanding service to our club during the past year. It was presented this year to Cathy Stubbs who volunteered to serve as our new newsletter editor and to serve on the By-Laws Review Committee. She also teamed up with Frank to host two of our monthly events. Thank you, Cathy, for your ongoing dedication to OCTC.
Once the meeting adjourned, we turned our attention to yet another delightful potluck. Among the highlights, this time was a delicious chocolate cake that commemorated OCTC's belated 50th Anniversary which was officially back in 2020. The delay in celebrating was due to the pandemic. A sincere thank you goes to everyone who attended this meeting. It was very productive and enjoyable. We're now looking forward to seeing everyone at our Christmas Party on Saturday, December 3.
Van
T-BIRD TRIP TO SCHACK-TOBERFEST
Our October event was a tour of the Schack Art Center, for their harvest-themed Schack-toberfest event. Schack Art Center is an admission-free visual art center in downtown Everett. The exhibit galleries are open six days a week and feature diverse artwork from locally and internationally known artists, as well as emerging young talents. From the main gallery, visitors are able to watch professional glassblowers at work in the state-of-the-art hot shop while admiring the current exhibit. The hot shop is a popular attraction for all ages, and the 19,000-square-foot facility also has seven other specialized production studios to accommodate a wide array of mediums including silversmithing, lapidary, fused glass, flameworking, stained glass, painting, drawing, and print-making.
The best word to describe this event might be unexpected, or unusual. Nine club members made the trek to Everett for this tour on October 1st: Frank, Cathy, and Kyle Stubbs, Clark and Wilma Hamm, Les and Cynthia Willman, Nancy Burress, Janice Westfall, and myself. The weather turned out to be cool but dry.
The Stubbs, Hamms, Nancy, and I met for breakfast at Breakfast at Tiffani’s Café just up the block from the Art Center, and we all agreed it’s not a place we’ll return to again. The restaurant was tiny and our group took up about half of their total table space. The hostess took our orders on sticky notes. The unexpected count is one. After serving five of our seven meals, the kitchen crew and hostess came out to ask if we had everything. So much for sticky notes! That’s unexpected count two. Nancy ordered the Bubble tea (also known as Boba tea) which she thought was a simple iced tea with chocolate chips in it. She was shocked to discover that instead of chocolate chips her drink had coffee-flavored tapioca balls, some of which were as hard as a rock. Another one for the unexpected category, but this one wasn’t the fault of the café, just another learning experience for us all. Frank and Cathy both ordered omelets with ham and cheese, only to realize later in the morning that they’d both received vegetarian omelets. That’s four for the unexpected count so far.
After breakfast, we met up with the Willmans and Janice at Schack’s Art Center and met Jules, who gave us a brief history of the facilities and explained how the local art community works with them to create their glassworks.
Schack occupies the bottom two floors of the building, with the rest of the building dedicated to apartments, mostly occupied by budding artists. They have a small gift shop and large display area that was filled with glass-blown pumpkins and Halloween decorations of all shapes and sizes, ranging in price from $20 all the way up to $700 for some extraordinarily large pieces. The halls leading to their classrooms were filled with paintings made by local artists and young adults that are being mentored there. Unfortunately for us, there was a last-minute change in their schedule and the glass fires had been burning the prior evening for a fund-raising event so we weren’t able to watch a demonstration of the artists at work. Another unexpected twist of fate for the day, but not nearly as scary as breakfast. We all enjoyed the Halloween treats they had out (gotta admit, we all grabbed some after our unusual breakfasts). We also had a great time shopping for our pumpkins and other Halloween-related items. There was such a large selection to choose from, so many colors and sizes that it took quite a bit of time to pick out just the perfect ones. I think everyone went home excited to show off their purchases to others.
Les Willman was especially excited about the event. He’d brought along a damaged piece of glass from one of his classic cars and was hoping to talk to someone about getting a replacement made. They were able to match him up with someone who might be able to replicate the piece for him, and he will be returning sometime soon to meet up with the gentleman face-to-face to discuss it.
A big thank-you to everyone who attended this event. Perhaps Jules and the rest of the staff will see us again, or am I spoiling a surprise for next year?
Vickie
The best word to describe this event might be unexpected, or unusual. Nine club members made the trek to Everett for this tour on October 1st: Frank, Cathy, and Kyle Stubbs, Clark and Wilma Hamm, Les and Cynthia Willman, Nancy Burress, Janice Westfall, and myself. The weather turned out to be cool but dry.
The Stubbs, Hamms, Nancy, and I met for breakfast at Breakfast at Tiffani’s Café just up the block from the Art Center, and we all agreed it’s not a place we’ll return to again. The restaurant was tiny and our group took up about half of their total table space. The hostess took our orders on sticky notes. The unexpected count is one. After serving five of our seven meals, the kitchen crew and hostess came out to ask if we had everything. So much for sticky notes! That’s unexpected count two. Nancy ordered the Bubble tea (also known as Boba tea) which she thought was a simple iced tea with chocolate chips in it. She was shocked to discover that instead of chocolate chips her drink had coffee-flavored tapioca balls, some of which were as hard as a rock. Another one for the unexpected category, but this one wasn’t the fault of the café, just another learning experience for us all. Frank and Cathy both ordered omelets with ham and cheese, only to realize later in the morning that they’d both received vegetarian omelets. That’s four for the unexpected count so far.
After breakfast, we met up with the Willmans and Janice at Schack’s Art Center and met Jules, who gave us a brief history of the facilities and explained how the local art community works with them to create their glassworks.
Schack occupies the bottom two floors of the building, with the rest of the building dedicated to apartments, mostly occupied by budding artists. They have a small gift shop and large display area that was filled with glass-blown pumpkins and Halloween decorations of all shapes and sizes, ranging in price from $20 all the way up to $700 for some extraordinarily large pieces. The halls leading to their classrooms were filled with paintings made by local artists and young adults that are being mentored there. Unfortunately for us, there was a last-minute change in their schedule and the glass fires had been burning the prior evening for a fund-raising event so we weren’t able to watch a demonstration of the artists at work. Another unexpected twist of fate for the day, but not nearly as scary as breakfast. We all enjoyed the Halloween treats they had out (gotta admit, we all grabbed some after our unusual breakfasts). We also had a great time shopping for our pumpkins and other Halloween-related items. There was such a large selection to choose from, so many colors and sizes that it took quite a bit of time to pick out just the perfect ones. I think everyone went home excited to show off their purchases to others.
Les Willman was especially excited about the event. He’d brought along a damaged piece of glass from one of his classic cars and was hoping to talk to someone about getting a replacement made. They were able to match him up with someone who might be able to replicate the piece for him, and he will be returning sometime soon to meet up with the gentleman face-to-face to discuss it.
A big thank-you to everyone who attended this event. Perhaps Jules and the rest of the staff will see us again, or am I spoiling a surprise for next year?
Vickie
CARS AND COFFEE/MEET AND GREET
A "Field of Dreams" Emerges in Newcastle
Keeping it simple. That's the formula Frank and Cathy Stubbs thought would work best when they took on the chore of last-minute planning for our Olympic Club event that was held on Saturday, September 24th. They decided to host it on their own property in Newcastle, calling it a “Cars and Coffee – Meet and Greet.” As part of their plan, they invited friends and members from other local car clubs to join us. They had enjoyed the interaction that developed from past contacts with these groups. Taking part with OCTC at this event were members from the Solid Axle Corvette Club, the Ford Retractable Club, and the Northwest Vintage Thunderbird Club.
Frank and Cathy had let us know that there would be plenty of room for parking because it was going to be held on a spacious field right next to their new home. It truly is a spacious field, but even Frank and Cathy were likely not anticipating the number of cars that showed up wanting to show off on that perfect summer-to-fall sunny day. There were a total of 35 cars, including 15 little birds, two retros, seven Corvettes, two Ford Retractables, two Mustangs, and a variety of Ford, Chevy, and Mopar models. Gathered together, these special rides created an absolutely stunning display. It was like a car lover's heaven! There's no doubt that if Kevin Costner had learned about this display of cars, he would've wanted to make another movie. His “Field of Dreams” ended up being little more than a bunch of old-time ball players. Gosh, that doesn't even compare to the “Field of Dream Cars” we witnessed. In fact, it was so impressive that Frank and Kyle were on the rooftop of one of their outbuildings trying to capture panoramic photos of these automotive legends.
Along with the cars, it was nice to visit with friends we haven't seen for a while, including Morris and Gayle Krause, Jerry and Becky Cline, and Ward and Sue Luhman. We learned that the Luhmans are traveling abroad very soon to visit Athens and the Greek Isles. Sounds wonderful. Safe travels and safe return, you two. It was also nice to chat with newer Olympic Club members, Larry and Grace Ostrom, who own a neat cotton-candy-colored '57. Some time ago, this car was bought by Larry's father as a gift to Larry's mother. It now remains in the family with Larry and Grace. We welcome you to OCTC and look forward to seeing you at future events.
Whenever there are car club groups, food is always within reach... and this was no exception. It included a wide variety of sweet treats like pastries, doughnuts, pies, cinnamon rolls, and cakes. In the center of all these delights was a large bowl of fresh grapes, almost like a gentle reminder that we should be watching our diet. Everything tasted wonderful, including the grapes!
Comments were heard from many about how much they enjoyed this event, hopeful that more multi-club outings will take place. It was a relaxed time among friends sharing stories. On behalf of the club, we offer our heartfelt thank you and sincere appreciation to Frank, Cathy, and Kyle for their efforts in hosting this successful event. And if Kevin Costner comes knocking, please tell him your field is strictly for cars, not ball players.
Van
Frank and Cathy had let us know that there would be plenty of room for parking because it was going to be held on a spacious field right next to their new home. It truly is a spacious field, but even Frank and Cathy were likely not anticipating the number of cars that showed up wanting to show off on that perfect summer-to-fall sunny day. There were a total of 35 cars, including 15 little birds, two retros, seven Corvettes, two Ford Retractables, two Mustangs, and a variety of Ford, Chevy, and Mopar models. Gathered together, these special rides created an absolutely stunning display. It was like a car lover's heaven! There's no doubt that if Kevin Costner had learned about this display of cars, he would've wanted to make another movie. His “Field of Dreams” ended up being little more than a bunch of old-time ball players. Gosh, that doesn't even compare to the “Field of Dream Cars” we witnessed. In fact, it was so impressive that Frank and Kyle were on the rooftop of one of their outbuildings trying to capture panoramic photos of these automotive legends.
Along with the cars, it was nice to visit with friends we haven't seen for a while, including Morris and Gayle Krause, Jerry and Becky Cline, and Ward and Sue Luhman. We learned that the Luhmans are traveling abroad very soon to visit Athens and the Greek Isles. Sounds wonderful. Safe travels and safe return, you two. It was also nice to chat with newer Olympic Club members, Larry and Grace Ostrom, who own a neat cotton-candy-colored '57. Some time ago, this car was bought by Larry's father as a gift to Larry's mother. It now remains in the family with Larry and Grace. We welcome you to OCTC and look forward to seeing you at future events.
Whenever there are car club groups, food is always within reach... and this was no exception. It included a wide variety of sweet treats like pastries, doughnuts, pies, cinnamon rolls, and cakes. In the center of all these delights was a large bowl of fresh grapes, almost like a gentle reminder that we should be watching our diet. Everything tasted wonderful, including the grapes!
Comments were heard from many about how much they enjoyed this event, hopeful that more multi-club outings will take place. It was a relaxed time among friends sharing stories. On behalf of the club, we offer our heartfelt thank you and sincere appreciation to Frank, Cathy, and Kyle for their efforts in hosting this successful event. And if Kevin Costner comes knocking, please tell him your field is strictly for cars, not ball players.
Van
28TH OKANAGAN CLASSIC THUNDERBIRD CLUB
Show and Shine
After enjoying the outstanding friendship and hospitality at Jerry and Becky Cline’s beautiful Chelan home, Frank and I left Chelan Friday morning heading north to Kelowna, BC. This was our first time entering Canada since the beginning of the pandemic. We had to jump through some hoops in preparing to cross the border, but the actual crossing at Osoyoos was painless. Arriving at the Hampton Inn in the late afternoon we were greeted by many familiar faces in the registration area. As in the past, our registration packet contained an envelope with Canadian cash to reimburse us for the exchange rate difference we paid on the event registration. We always look forward to this little bonus, and, of course, we were directed to the raffle ticket sales to spend some of that cash, and then into the banquet room to deposit our tickets in buckets for our favorite prizes.
Saturday we were lined up and drove in the parade of Thunderbirds down to the city park along the edge of Lake Okanagan where we parked by the year of our cars. For the first time in years, our baby birds just about outnumbered all the other years of T-birds on display. The park is beautiful and close to various eating establishments including a great ice cream store. As always there were many spectators out to view our beautiful cars, asking questions and taking pictures. Upon returning to the hotel there was time to rest and get ready for the evening awards banquet.
Sunday was the beginning of the three-day extended tour. There were 30 cars signed up for the tour with all of the birds from Washington and Oregon staying on. Again, it was a pleasant surprise to caravan along with the baby birds as the majority. Over the next three days, we saw the greater Kelowna area from all angles. Highlights of the tours included lunch and a ride on the Kettle Valley Steam Train, visiting Father Pandosy’s Mission, a kangaroo and wallaby ranch, lunch at a golf club, pizza at a delightful Italian restaurant, winery tour and tasting, and of course, two more evening dinners. The scenery was great, as were the tour directions, and our hosts did a great job of keeping us together and getting us to the next stop on a timely basis.
I’m saddened to say, though, that after 28 years of the Kelowna Show and Shine, this will be the last. Unfortunately, the clubs are getting smaller and the members are not getting younger, so the burden of planning and holding an event of this type is getting more difficult. It is also becoming more difficult to keep the hotel and registration affordable. We thank the Okanagan Classic Thunderbird Club for the 28 years of hospitality, fun, comradery, and great memories you have left as your legacy to the Thunderbird community. We will all miss this annual event, but hopefully, we will have many more opportunities to meet and renew our fond friendships.
Cathy and Frank
Saturday we were lined up and drove in the parade of Thunderbirds down to the city park along the edge of Lake Okanagan where we parked by the year of our cars. For the first time in years, our baby birds just about outnumbered all the other years of T-birds on display. The park is beautiful and close to various eating establishments including a great ice cream store. As always there were many spectators out to view our beautiful cars, asking questions and taking pictures. Upon returning to the hotel there was time to rest and get ready for the evening awards banquet.
Sunday was the beginning of the three-day extended tour. There were 30 cars signed up for the tour with all of the birds from Washington and Oregon staying on. Again, it was a pleasant surprise to caravan along with the baby birds as the majority. Over the next three days, we saw the greater Kelowna area from all angles. Highlights of the tours included lunch and a ride on the Kettle Valley Steam Train, visiting Father Pandosy’s Mission, a kangaroo and wallaby ranch, lunch at a golf club, pizza at a delightful Italian restaurant, winery tour and tasting, and of course, two more evening dinners. The scenery was great, as were the tour directions, and our hosts did a great job of keeping us together and getting us to the next stop on a timely basis.
I’m saddened to say, though, that after 28 years of the Kelowna Show and Shine, this will be the last. Unfortunately, the clubs are getting smaller and the members are not getting younger, so the burden of planning and holding an event of this type is getting more difficult. It is also becoming more difficult to keep the hotel and registration affordable. We thank the Okanagan Classic Thunderbird Club for the 28 years of hospitality, fun, comradery, and great memories you have left as your legacy to the Thunderbird community. We will all miss this annual event, but hopefully, we will have many more opportunities to meet and renew our fond friendships.
Cathy and Frank
MT. ST. HELENS TOUR
On Saturday morning we met at the Four Corners Safeway parking lot in Maple Valley to start our drive. We had five T-birds, one 1957 Corvette, and an electric car for our beautiful and scenic drive to Kelso. Although it was cloudy and a bit foggy, we had the sun come out at the top of the pass and Mount Rainer was just beautiful. We stopped for lunch at a rest stop just outside of Packwood and at that point, we all appreciated the bathroom break! Lunch was served and we were on our way.
The next stop was the Cowlitz County Museum in Kelso. We had an interesting guide who was very knowledgeable about Mount Saint Helens, logging, and the pioneers in the area. They displayed the KOMO NEWS 4 car that was at Mount Saint Helens when the blast occurred in 1980. They also had a video showing the reporter who ended up making it out, which included this very car. How amazing we were able to see it in person!
Clarke and Wilma grew up in the area, so visiting the museum was a walk back in time for them. A few of us even picked up some extra historic tidbits from them.
The next stop was checking into the hotel in Kelso. Some of the group felt the impact of worker shortages as many weren’t able to get into their rooms until after 5 pm! We were so excited to have a lit parking lot, to keep an eye on our vehicles. Imagine our surprise the next morning when there were several people in sleeping bags on the grass next to our well-lit parking lot!
For dinner, we headed over to Fiesta Bonita Mexican Restaurant for dinner. Once again Chuck picked a great spot as we enjoyed our meals. Wilma and Clarke presented Frank and Cathy with a beautiful quilt that Wilma made for their 50th wedding anniversary. Wilma is very talented, and the quilt was gorgeous.
Sunday morning, we left the hotel around 10 taking the backroads to Castlerock where we met up with three more Corvettes who joined the drive to Johnston Ridge Observatory at Mount Saint Helens. We enjoyed the beautiful drive; this site has an awesome view as well as great exhibits. Our group tour ended here. Some choose the fast trip home while others continued on the more scenic backroads to Parkland, and then headed in their directions home.
Thanks to all who attended:
Frank, Cathy and Kyle Stubbs, Clarke and Wilma Hamm, Ron and Beth Bunn, Les and Cynthia Willman, Julie Birch, and Mac Hamilton from Oregon in his '57 Corvette. Joining us Sunday morning in their Corvettes were Jerry and Terry Little, Larry and Sue Plischke, and Loren and Verleen Sawyer.
Unfortunately, Chuck could not make the event due to some major issues. A huge thanks go to him for all the planning.
The next stop was the Cowlitz County Museum in Kelso. We had an interesting guide who was very knowledgeable about Mount Saint Helens, logging, and the pioneers in the area. They displayed the KOMO NEWS 4 car that was at Mount Saint Helens when the blast occurred in 1980. They also had a video showing the reporter who ended up making it out, which included this very car. How amazing we were able to see it in person!
Clarke and Wilma grew up in the area, so visiting the museum was a walk back in time for them. A few of us even picked up some extra historic tidbits from them.
The next stop was checking into the hotel in Kelso. Some of the group felt the impact of worker shortages as many weren’t able to get into their rooms until after 5 pm! We were so excited to have a lit parking lot, to keep an eye on our vehicles. Imagine our surprise the next morning when there were several people in sleeping bags on the grass next to our well-lit parking lot!
For dinner, we headed over to Fiesta Bonita Mexican Restaurant for dinner. Once again Chuck picked a great spot as we enjoyed our meals. Wilma and Clarke presented Frank and Cathy with a beautiful quilt that Wilma made for their 50th wedding anniversary. Wilma is very talented, and the quilt was gorgeous.
Sunday morning, we left the hotel around 10 taking the backroads to Castlerock where we met up with three more Corvettes who joined the drive to Johnston Ridge Observatory at Mount Saint Helens. We enjoyed the beautiful drive; this site has an awesome view as well as great exhibits. Our group tour ended here. Some choose the fast trip home while others continued on the more scenic backroads to Parkland, and then headed in their directions home.
Thanks to all who attended:
Frank, Cathy and Kyle Stubbs, Clarke and Wilma Hamm, Ron and Beth Bunn, Les and Cynthia Willman, Julie Birch, and Mac Hamilton from Oregon in his '57 Corvette. Joining us Sunday morning in their Corvettes were Jerry and Terry Little, Larry and Sue Plischke, and Loren and Verleen Sawyer.
Unfortunately, Chuck could not make the event due to some major issues. A huge thanks go to him for all the planning.
OCTC 42nd Annual Thunderbird Picnic
BIRDS AND A BEETLE ENJOY BEACHSIDE PICNIC
On Saturday, July 9, a group of 20+ Olympic Club members attended OCTC's annual picnic which was once again hosted by Nancy Burress at her beautiful waterfront home located on Big Lake in the greater Mount Vernon area. Nancy had a surprise for many of us because she had spent the past year completely renovating the home's interior, including the main level and upstairs. The finished product turned out great with an open floor plan that allows panoramic views of the lake and surroundings. Job well done Nancy!
Arrival time by attendees was well-coordinated, with many traveling together along a scenic route that avoided the dull routine of Interstate-5. As the caravan made its way to Nancy's, it offered a delightful parade of dazzling Classic Thunderbirds. Then, at a location near the front entrance to Nancy's home, these birds seamlessly backed up one after the other and parked in perfect formation. Kudos to the drivers who did their part to have the cars displayed so well. The weather also cooperated, providing us with a warm sunny day.
Martin and Diana Antrim grabbed our attention as they arrived in unique style, driving a vintage 1979 VW Beetle convertible. Very fun ride! Martin said 1979 was the last production year of the original style. One could tell that the birds and the beetle were giving each other admiring looks. It's a good thing that the Antrim's Volkswagen is in the shape of a bug instead of a worm. From that old saying, we all know the fate of worms once “early birds” get a glimpse of them.
Along with the cars and socializing, food is always a major draw at our monthly events. This year's potluck offered a delicious variety of salads, chowder, baked beans, fruit, and desserts. Nancy's New York-style cheesecake with strawberry topping is a stand-out treat!
Near the close of our day, President Frank Stubbs held a short meeting to thank those attending and to thank Nancy for being such a gracious host. There was also a brief discussion about the recommended changes to our by-laws, and the need to have a quorum of our members present at a scheduled meeting in order to have the proposed changes considered and ratified. Our November business meeting at Frank and Cathy's will likely be the best opportunity for this.
Looking forward, we hope to see a large turn out at our August event.
Van
NARDOLAND
After a yearlong postponement, On Saturday, June 4th, Olympic members and guests finally had a unique opportunity to visit NARDOLAND, the home of Snohomish residents, Ron and Sally-Jo Nardone. We began arriving at NARDOLAND around 10:30 AM and were directed to park on the beautifully groomed lawn across from the mock-up canopy of Nardo’s Shell Service. The organizer of the event, Rick Len, received prime parking in front of the service station in his blue ’57. There were seven little birds and a 1971 Dodge Charger in the group that made for some nice photos. Several guests joined us including the Charger owners, Ray and Judy Phillip, and another Mopar friend, Bob Austin.
NARDOLAND could best be described as a 12-acre park with beautifully groomed grounds decorated with signs, memorabilia, and “statues” that take visitors back to the past. We started our tour with introductions to the Nardone’s and an overview of the collections we were about to enjoy.
Our first stop was the inside of the main “Shell Station” building. Our hosts,
the Nardone’s grew up in the area and are alumni of Bothell High School.
There were several displays and memorabilia from their school days including cheerleader uniforms, old pictures, and restored school buses. The walls and ceilings were decorated with never-ending, eye-catching memorabilia. On one wall was a build-out depicting a soda fountain and burger bar – on another was the Cougar (Bothell Cougars) Bar. Of course, Ronald McDonald made for a fun photo opportunity.
After the indoor tour, most headed out to explore the grounds. There is a trail around the property with fun discoveries at every turn. Spread along the trails were a number of outbuildings depicting memories of the past – a ranger station, general store, small-scale wooden bridges, an outhouse, and the Teapot Hotel (shaped like a teapot). All were decorated with more gas signs, grocery signs, pop signs, about anything you can think of signs. We were told that all the signs in the collection are originals – not reproductions. One sign spotted on the front of the outhouse was for Garmire Iron Works. This was a Juanita-located company owned by the longtime past Olympic member, Rich Garmire. This sign was given to Ron Nardone by Rich. It brought back fond memories for those of us who knew Rich and Jean Garmire. Everywhere we looked throughout the property we found items that bring you joy, from the many past oil company signs including the beautiful Atlantic Richfield neon sign, to the KFC bucket with the very large chicken on top, to Bob’s Big Boy, more large chickens, a giant mouse, farm implements, a VW Beatle rusting into the ground, goal posts and score-board from Bothell High School and more. Once around the property was an excursion not to be missed. Many were tired after the experience, but not sure if it was the walk or the thoughts of the work it takes to maintain these incredible grounds.
After giving thanks to the Nardone’s for the fun tour, our next stop was Maltby Pizza for lunch. Here we ordered and shared large pizzas for all. Early in the day, we were pleased to enjoy top-down weather, but the change began while we dined on pizza, and many had the need for tops-up on the way home. A huge THANK YOU goes out to Rick Len for organizing this fun event and making lunch plans for us.
NARDOLAND could best be described as a 12-acre park with beautifully groomed grounds decorated with signs, memorabilia, and “statues” that take visitors back to the past. We started our tour with introductions to the Nardone’s and an overview of the collections we were about to enjoy.
Our first stop was the inside of the main “Shell Station” building. Our hosts,
the Nardone’s grew up in the area and are alumni of Bothell High School.
There were several displays and memorabilia from their school days including cheerleader uniforms, old pictures, and restored school buses. The walls and ceilings were decorated with never-ending, eye-catching memorabilia. On one wall was a build-out depicting a soda fountain and burger bar – on another was the Cougar (Bothell Cougars) Bar. Of course, Ronald McDonald made for a fun photo opportunity.
After the indoor tour, most headed out to explore the grounds. There is a trail around the property with fun discoveries at every turn. Spread along the trails were a number of outbuildings depicting memories of the past – a ranger station, general store, small-scale wooden bridges, an outhouse, and the Teapot Hotel (shaped like a teapot). All were decorated with more gas signs, grocery signs, pop signs, about anything you can think of signs. We were told that all the signs in the collection are originals – not reproductions. One sign spotted on the front of the outhouse was for Garmire Iron Works. This was a Juanita-located company owned by the longtime past Olympic member, Rich Garmire. This sign was given to Ron Nardone by Rich. It brought back fond memories for those of us who knew Rich and Jean Garmire. Everywhere we looked throughout the property we found items that bring you joy, from the many past oil company signs including the beautiful Atlantic Richfield neon sign, to the KFC bucket with the very large chicken on top, to Bob’s Big Boy, more large chickens, a giant mouse, farm implements, a VW Beatle rusting into the ground, goal posts and score-board from Bothell High School and more. Once around the property was an excursion not to be missed. Many were tired after the experience, but not sure if it was the walk or the thoughts of the work it takes to maintain these incredible grounds.
After giving thanks to the Nardone’s for the fun tour, our next stop was Maltby Pizza for lunch. Here we ordered and shared large pizzas for all. Early in the day, we were pleased to enjoy top-down weather, but the change began while we dined on pizza, and many had the need for tops-up on the way home. A huge THANK YOU goes out to Rick Len for organizing this fun event and making lunch plans for us.
HOOD CANAL/LANDON COLLECTION
Our driving tour to Belfair near Hood Canal began in Renton with a gathering of 17 members and guests. This group included 3 little birds, a retro bird, a square bird, and a ’57 Corvette along with several generic vehicles. Once on the road, our next pick-up point was the Narrows Bridge weigh station where we picked up another little bird and a generic. After an Olympic maneuver to correct a missed turn, we found our way to the Burger Claim and More in Belfair. There we met up with 4 more members – one couple in their little bird.
After indulging in our favorite breakfast or lunch items we were on the road again. Craig Landon had called and gave one of us directions to their home. This time we enjoyed a rather scenic tour in the wrong direction. Fortunately, for some, they followed Vickie’s directions and found Craig and Cathy Landon’s before the rest of the group got turned around and headed back toward Hood Canal. What is an OCTC tour without a few correctional maneuvers?
In keeping with the beach atmosphere, Craig had his beachside fire pit well lit. A welcome site under cool, drizzly skies. After a brief meet and greet, we were invited across Landon Road (named after Craig’s great-grandfather who homesteaded here) to Craig and Cathy’s newly finished garage where their car collection resides along with Craig’s extensive collection of Flying A gas memorabilia. Craig and Cathy are Olympic members, but the logistics of living on Hood Canal have made it difficult for them to participate. Frank introduced Craig and invited him to tell us about his cars and his collection. He shared stories about finding his cars and the restoration work required to bring them to their current beautiful condition.
The next stop on the tour was upstairs to what Craig termed his “man cave”. This room is the focus of much of the Flying A Collection. Flying A also includes such brands as Veedol, Tydol, and Tidewater Oil Co which were all represented, from signs to a station canopy, to display cases behind glass paneled station doors. Some were fascinated with what looks like the back of a Landon Oil fuel delivery truck but houses a pop-up flatscreen TV. Another focal point is a rather rare Flying A piece that has the look of stained-glass art (there was another name?). Of course, one small corner belongs to Cathy and is appropriately named “Cathy’s Diner”.
Craig again shared stories about how he began collecting with advice from his cousin to stick with one brand. He shared how he came about to own some of the rarer pieces, and talked about authentic pieces versus fakes. After the tour, Cathy brought in ice cream bars which were rapidly consumed.
Many thanks to Craig and Cathy for sharing their collection with us.
DRAGER'S GRAND OPENING
Annual event planning is great, but not perfect. At what seemed like the last minute our pre-planned event for April was cancelled, and a scramble was on to find a replacement event. Well known collector car enthusiast Jeri Drager sent out a notice announcing the grand opening of Drager’s International Car Sales at his new location in Burlington scheduled for Saturday, April 9th, offered an opportunity for an event. The weather predictions were horrible—rain, hail, snow, wind, cold. Not very enticing for bringing out our little birds. Realizing we didn’t need to leave quite so early; we postponed our meeting time at the designated Renton location. Under mixed skies the Bunn’s and Stubbs (3) in a ‘55, ‘56 and ’57 left the meeting location and headed north to Burlington where we met Nancy Burress in her ’57 at the local park and ride before heading to our final stop. We drove in and parked, and right behind us new members Dusty and Dena Kindred arrived and parked with us. Just down the line was Mel Lang in his retro bird. About 125 collector cars and street rods were on display.
We were welcomed into Jeri Drager’s Clubhouse and spent the rest of the morning looking at the many cars and memorabilia along with socializing with our friends. Of course, it was great to meet our new members the Kindreds and Steve Okamura, and re-acquaint with long-time members Chuck and Geri Kahler, who we haven’t seen in sometime. Also, venturing out were Mike and Kathie Ball, Barb Collins, Ron Karr and Janice Westfall and son, Phillip. There were 18 OCTC members in all. We thank all of you for joining in this fun event. Many of us hit the food truck for coffee and lunch. For those that stayed around into the early afternoon we were treated to a performance by local favorite Elvis impersonator, Danny Vernon and his wife Marsha. Danny didn’t disappoint performing one set as the early Elvis and a second set as the later Elvis bedecked in his trademark white jumpsuit. Of course, throughout the performance a number of sweaty scarves where bestowed upon ladies in the audience. During his rendition of “Can’t Help Falling in Love”, Nancy was bestowed with a Hawaiian lei.
After Danny’s performance a few awards were handed out. Auto News was there and they presented five awards for their favorite cars (in no special order). Nancy was one of the recipients of an award (it’s in the mail, hopefully she has it by now). The Olympic club was recognized for having the most club cars present. The final hurrah was when Danny, Marsha, and Jeri started tossing posters and t-shirts to the participants. Other than a major passing rain and hail storm about lunch time, the weather as a whole cooperated, and every one had a good time. Congratulations to Jeri, Joan and Andrew Drager on the opening of their new facility.
We were welcomed into Jeri Drager’s Clubhouse and spent the rest of the morning looking at the many cars and memorabilia along with socializing with our friends. Of course, it was great to meet our new members the Kindreds and Steve Okamura, and re-acquaint with long-time members Chuck and Geri Kahler, who we haven’t seen in sometime. Also, venturing out were Mike and Kathie Ball, Barb Collins, Ron Karr and Janice Westfall and son, Phillip. There were 18 OCTC members in all. We thank all of you for joining in this fun event. Many of us hit the food truck for coffee and lunch. For those that stayed around into the early afternoon we were treated to a performance by local favorite Elvis impersonator, Danny Vernon and his wife Marsha. Danny didn’t disappoint performing one set as the early Elvis and a second set as the later Elvis bedecked in his trademark white jumpsuit. Of course, throughout the performance a number of sweaty scarves where bestowed upon ladies in the audience. During his rendition of “Can’t Help Falling in Love”, Nancy was bestowed with a Hawaiian lei.
After Danny’s performance a few awards were handed out. Auto News was there and they presented five awards for their favorite cars (in no special order). Nancy was one of the recipients of an award (it’s in the mail, hopefully she has it by now). The Olympic club was recognized for having the most club cars present. The final hurrah was when Danny, Marsha, and Jeri started tossing posters and t-shirts to the participants. Other than a major passing rain and hail storm about lunch time, the weather as a whole cooperated, and every one had a good time. Congratulations to Jeri, Joan and Andrew Drager on the opening of their new facility.
MUSEUM OF FLIGHT
Saturday, 19th March, we toured The Museum of Flight. Had a nice turn out of members–fourteen in all, Sue and Ward Luhman, Frank, Cathy and Kyle Stubbs, Fran and Dan Del Duca, Ron and Beth Bunn, Van and Lynn Victor. Also, we had Kevin and Maureen Wilson who are new members to our club. It was great that they took part in our tour today.
The Museum of Flight is awesome, so much to see. Starting with the Great Gallery with more than 50 historic aircraft, tracing the first century of human flight. We were unable to visit the Red Barn as a water pipe had burst and not repaired enough for visitors. The Red Barn exhibits the beginning of how William Boeing’s vision made it possible to see what we have today. The Personal Courage Wing, which displayed World War II Gallery of Aircraft, and World War I. The Space Gallery with NASA Full Fuselage Trainer. Then you can go outside to the Aviation Pavilion with 20 planes in all, a Concord to a B-29. Also, it’s a nice hike to the B-52. Frank said the walk was worth it. You can visit online at (MUSEUMOFFLIGHT.ORG).
It is impossible to see everything in one day, unless you just looked, and didn’t read the history behind everything that is exhibited.
Thanks for coming.
Jon
The Museum of Flight is awesome, so much to see. Starting with the Great Gallery with more than 50 historic aircraft, tracing the first century of human flight. We were unable to visit the Red Barn as a water pipe had burst and not repaired enough for visitors. The Red Barn exhibits the beginning of how William Boeing’s vision made it possible to see what we have today. The Personal Courage Wing, which displayed World War II Gallery of Aircraft, and World War I. The Space Gallery with NASA Full Fuselage Trainer. Then you can go outside to the Aviation Pavilion with 20 planes in all, a Concord to a B-29. Also, it’s a nice hike to the B-52. Frank said the walk was worth it. You can visit online at (MUSEUMOFFLIGHT.ORG).
It is impossible to see everything in one day, unless you just looked, and didn’t read the history behind everything that is exhibited.
Thanks for coming.
Jon
LeMay – America's Car Museum
OUR CLASSIC THUNDERBIRDS ARE MUSEUM PIECES!
On Saturday, February 19, a group of 30 Thunderbird enthusiasts toured the “LeMay – America's Car Museum” located in downtown Tacoma. Our group included 23 Olympic Club members who were joined by five members from the Rose City Thunderbird Club and two members from the Pacific NW Vintage Thunderbird Club. We were pleased to have this multi-club participation. The museum likes to have car clubs hold their events here, and invited us to display our collector cars on the plaza near the museum's grand entrance. Even with a weather forecast predicting rain that day, the plaza was wellrepresented with a variety of beautiful Thunderbirds and specialty cars. We had classic T'birds on display that covered all 3 years, and they included D-code, E-code, and F-code examples. How neat is that! It was fun to watch people coming to visit the museum because they all took special notice of our cars. There were many admiring looks and selfie-type photos. Weather forecasting these days is pretty accurate, but we lucked out because not a drop of rain fell on our parade.
The museum itself is truly an impressive venue, housing over 300 vehicles on four levels with displays of automobiles from early-day antiques to modern day specialty cars. Examples range from Model Ts to Duesenbergs to Tesla roadsters, and to stunning Art Deco- styled Lincoln Zephyrs that take your breath away. Even the rampways leading you from level to level have their walls filled with historical photographs, posters, and written explanations about the cars and former owners. Among the Ford models on exhibit is a rare triple white 1957 Thunderbird. According to the museum's records, only 3% of T'birds produced in 1957 had that matching combination of white body, top, and interior.
Also on exhibit is a large number of beautiful vintage motorcycles. This will be of particular interest to our Olympic Club folks because they are part of the collection owned by long-time Olympic member Brown Maloney. All of these motorcycles appear to be sweet rides, and many are low mileage. Kudos to Brown.
Following our self-guided tours, we met as a group for lunch at the museum's restaurant. The food was really good and reasonably priced. Even though it's a small operation, the staff was organized and we received our orders in a timely manner. As we finished our meals, President Frank Stubbs held a short meeting to thank those attending, including those from Rose City and Steve and Maureen Cline from the Vintage T'bird Club. He also extended a welcome to Kevin and Maureen Wilson who are new Olympic Club members. It was also nice to see and visit with John and Pam Lowney and Ward and Sue Luhman, long-time members who we haven't seen for a while.
Thank you all for joining us. We now look forward to seeing many of you at our club's next event, the Museum of Flight.
Van and Lynn
The museum itself is truly an impressive venue, housing over 300 vehicles on four levels with displays of automobiles from early-day antiques to modern day specialty cars. Examples range from Model Ts to Duesenbergs to Tesla roadsters, and to stunning Art Deco- styled Lincoln Zephyrs that take your breath away. Even the rampways leading you from level to level have their walls filled with historical photographs, posters, and written explanations about the cars and former owners. Among the Ford models on exhibit is a rare triple white 1957 Thunderbird. According to the museum's records, only 3% of T'birds produced in 1957 had that matching combination of white body, top, and interior.
Also on exhibit is a large number of beautiful vintage motorcycles. This will be of particular interest to our Olympic Club folks because they are part of the collection owned by long-time Olympic member Brown Maloney. All of these motorcycles appear to be sweet rides, and many are low mileage. Kudos to Brown.
Following our self-guided tours, we met as a group for lunch at the museum's restaurant. The food was really good and reasonably priced. Even though it's a small operation, the staff was organized and we received our orders in a timely manner. As we finished our meals, President Frank Stubbs held a short meeting to thank those attending, including those from Rose City and Steve and Maureen Cline from the Vintage T'bird Club. He also extended a welcome to Kevin and Maureen Wilson who are new Olympic Club members. It was also nice to see and visit with John and Pam Lowney and Ward and Sue Luhman, long-time members who we haven't seen for a while.
Thank you all for joining us. We now look forward to seeing many of you at our club's next event, the Museum of Flight.
Van and Lynn
BUSINESS MEETING and ELECTION of 2022 OFFICERS
January 22, 2022
GENERAL MEETING GETS 2022 OFF TO A GREAT START
On Saturday, January 22, our Olympic Club held its General Business Meeting at the Golden Steer Restaurant in Kent. The location, the service, and the food all received good comments from those in attendance. Earlier that day, President Michael Hall and wife Bonnie decided it would be best for all concerned that they not attend because a family member in their home had tested positive for covid. Best wishes to the Halls for their safety, health, and welfare.
Our meeting was fun, productive, and worthwhile. Fran Del Duca provided us with a written copy of the Treasurer's Report that gave a clear, detailed accounting of our income and expenses for the past year. It also showed a healthy balance in our checking/savings accounts, currently at over $13,000. Noting this, Jon Hanson suggested we spend some of this money for a good cause. It prompted a lively discussion with ideas ranging from charity donations to sponsoring a future multi-club event. No decision was made, but Jon's suggestion has planted a seed.
Van gave an update about our next event to the LeMay Car Museum on February 19. A bit of interesting news is that several members from the Rose City Thunderbird Club have already signed up and plan to join us for this self-guided museum tour. With that in mind, it's important that any from our club who are planning to attend need to contact Lynn or Van by February 12 to ensure that we have enough discounted tickets for you to get in. Tickets need to be reserved in advance, even if you're paying and picking them up on the day you arrive. Our contact info is in the event write-up.
Jon Hanson provided information about our tour at the Museum of Flight which will be held on Saturday, March 19th. Even though we visited this site a few years ago, a lot has changed since then including additional displays across the street. Specifics about the event will be published in our newsletter. Looking forward to September, Cathy Stubbs let us know that the classic T'bird club in Sacramento is once again hosting their Thunderbird Extravaganza event because it was such a success last year. Close to 100 little birds took part, along with other years of Thunderbirds and Ford products. The dates this time are the 17-18th of September. Cathy and Frank are looking to encourage a group from our area to travel together, and taking some time to visit sites along the way. More info to follow.
A discussion came up at the meeting about a need to review/update our club's by-laws in an effort to improve club function and membership interaction. The last time such a review took place was back in 2012. Occasional reviews of this document are important to ensure that the rules governing our organization best serve the club's purpose and the interests of its membership. A committee of Cathy Stubbs, Vickie Willson, and Van Victor volunteered to conduct this review and offer recommendations to the membership for approval. In the meantime, if you would like to help serve on the committee, or have suggestions for improving our by-laws, we welcome your input.
The main purpose of this meeting was to elect our officers for 2022. As head trustee, Vickie presented us with a slate of candidates who had volunteered to fill all the open positions. A call for a vote to elect the slate as presented resulted in a unanimous vote of approval.
Our newly-elected Executive Board of officers and trustees are: President Frank Stubbs; Vice President Vickie Willson; Secretary Fran Del Duca; Treasurer Dan Del Duca; Trustees Michael Hall; Cliff Holland; Mel Lang; and Van Victor. A sincere thank you to Vickie for her determined efforts to find these good people to fill our club's leadership roles. Though not brought up specifically at our meeting, there is another position change worth noting. Cathy Stubbs has volunteered to serve as our Newsletter Editor, and with Kyle's help will also fill the role of Web Master. Our long-serving editor and web master, Bruce Eardley, will continue in his role as Membership Chair. Thank you all for stepping up to help ensure OCTC's continued success.
As we adjourned the meeting and stepped outside, I noticed passers-by in the parking lot giving admiring looks and comments about the classic T'birds that had been driven to this event by Frank, Cathy, and Kyle. I'm not surprised about the “ooohs” and “ahhhs,” but it still brings a smile to my face every time I see it.
Van
On Saturday, January 22, our Olympic Club held its General Business Meeting at the Golden Steer Restaurant in Kent. The location, the service, and the food all received good comments from those in attendance. Earlier that day, President Michael Hall and wife Bonnie decided it would be best for all concerned that they not attend because a family member in their home had tested positive for covid. Best wishes to the Halls for their safety, health, and welfare.
Our meeting was fun, productive, and worthwhile. Fran Del Duca provided us with a written copy of the Treasurer's Report that gave a clear, detailed accounting of our income and expenses for the past year. It also showed a healthy balance in our checking/savings accounts, currently at over $13,000. Noting this, Jon Hanson suggested we spend some of this money for a good cause. It prompted a lively discussion with ideas ranging from charity donations to sponsoring a future multi-club event. No decision was made, but Jon's suggestion has planted a seed.
Van gave an update about our next event to the LeMay Car Museum on February 19. A bit of interesting news is that several members from the Rose City Thunderbird Club have already signed up and plan to join us for this self-guided museum tour. With that in mind, it's important that any from our club who are planning to attend need to contact Lynn or Van by February 12 to ensure that we have enough discounted tickets for you to get in. Tickets need to be reserved in advance, even if you're paying and picking them up on the day you arrive. Our contact info is in the event write-up.
Jon Hanson provided information about our tour at the Museum of Flight which will be held on Saturday, March 19th. Even though we visited this site a few years ago, a lot has changed since then including additional displays across the street. Specifics about the event will be published in our newsletter. Looking forward to September, Cathy Stubbs let us know that the classic T'bird club in Sacramento is once again hosting their Thunderbird Extravaganza event because it was such a success last year. Close to 100 little birds took part, along with other years of Thunderbirds and Ford products. The dates this time are the 17-18th of September. Cathy and Frank are looking to encourage a group from our area to travel together, and taking some time to visit sites along the way. More info to follow.
A discussion came up at the meeting about a need to review/update our club's by-laws in an effort to improve club function and membership interaction. The last time such a review took place was back in 2012. Occasional reviews of this document are important to ensure that the rules governing our organization best serve the club's purpose and the interests of its membership. A committee of Cathy Stubbs, Vickie Willson, and Van Victor volunteered to conduct this review and offer recommendations to the membership for approval. In the meantime, if you would like to help serve on the committee, or have suggestions for improving our by-laws, we welcome your input.
The main purpose of this meeting was to elect our officers for 2022. As head trustee, Vickie presented us with a slate of candidates who had volunteered to fill all the open positions. A call for a vote to elect the slate as presented resulted in a unanimous vote of approval.
Our newly-elected Executive Board of officers and trustees are: President Frank Stubbs; Vice President Vickie Willson; Secretary Fran Del Duca; Treasurer Dan Del Duca; Trustees Michael Hall; Cliff Holland; Mel Lang; and Van Victor. A sincere thank you to Vickie for her determined efforts to find these good people to fill our club's leadership roles. Though not brought up specifically at our meeting, there is another position change worth noting. Cathy Stubbs has volunteered to serve as our Newsletter Editor, and with Kyle's help will also fill the role of Web Master. Our long-serving editor and web master, Bruce Eardley, will continue in his role as Membership Chair. Thank you all for stepping up to help ensure OCTC's continued success.
As we adjourned the meeting and stepped outside, I noticed passers-by in the parking lot giving admiring looks and comments about the classic T'birds that had been driven to this event by Frank, Cathy, and Kyle. I'm not surprised about the “ooohs” and “ahhhs,” but it still brings a smile to my face every time I see it.
Van
PAST EVENTS FOR 2021
OCTC Annual
Holiday Party
Saturday December 4th, 2021
CHRISTMAS FUN WITH A DOSE OF TRIVIA
On Saturday afternoon, December 4, an enthusiastic group of Olympic Club members enjoyed our year-end event at the Golden Steer restaurant in Kent. Attendance was down from previous years, likely due to COVID and vaccination requirements. We're all looking forward to relief from the awful circumstances this pandemic has created. On the positive side, we had exclusive use of the Golden Steer's spacious banquet room and we were able to order on our own from their wide-variety regular menu. Mostly positive comments were heard about the food, but there were a few negatives that included a disappointing steak sandwich.
While waiting for our food orders to arrive, the group was invited to take part in a trivia quiz, with the winner receiving a $75 Costco gift card that had been donated by Santa. The lucky winner of this difficult quiz was Diana Antrim who answered 10 of the questions correctly. Honorable mention goes out to Martin Antrim, Cliff Holland, and Kyle Stubbs who ended in a three-way tie for second place, with nine correct answers.
As we finished our meals, those pesky rules for the gift exchange were reviewed. This exchange is always filled with fun, frustration, and surprises as we look to see what's inside all those neatly-wrapped packages. There were a number of quality gifts that ranged from T'bird related items, household goods, fancy light sources, wall hangings, 1000-piece jigsaw puzzles, and comfy throws. All in all, a lot of smiles to go around... and a few laughs too!
Our Christmas party get-together is such a nice way to end our Olympic Club year, and a great way to kick-start the holiday season. 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 a heartfelt and thoughtful gesture to provide this offering for children who are less fortunate.
Lynn and I also want to extend sincere appreciation to Michael and Bonnie Hall who are the primary hosts for this annual event. They always do such an outstanding job with the planning, details, and preparations. Knowing them as we do, they're probably out right now looking for poinsettias and decorations for next year!
Best wishes to all of our members for a new year filled with happiness and good health.
On Saturday afternoon, December 4, an enthusiastic group of Olympic Club members enjoyed our year-end event at the Golden Steer restaurant in Kent. Attendance was down from previous years, likely due to COVID and vaccination requirements. We're all looking forward to relief from the awful circumstances this pandemic has created. On the positive side, we had exclusive use of the Golden Steer's spacious banquet room and we were able to order on our own from their wide-variety regular menu. Mostly positive comments were heard about the food, but there were a few negatives that included a disappointing steak sandwich.
While waiting for our food orders to arrive, the group was invited to take part in a trivia quiz, with the winner receiving a $75 Costco gift card that had been donated by Santa. The lucky winner of this difficult quiz was Diana Antrim who answered 10 of the questions correctly. Honorable mention goes out to Martin Antrim, Cliff Holland, and Kyle Stubbs who ended in a three-way tie for second place, with nine correct answers.
As we finished our meals, those pesky rules for the gift exchange were reviewed. This exchange is always filled with fun, frustration, and surprises as we look to see what's inside all those neatly-wrapped packages. There were a number of quality gifts that ranged from T'bird related items, household goods, fancy light sources, wall hangings, 1000-piece jigsaw puzzles, and comfy throws. All in all, a lot of smiles to go around... and a few laughs too!
Our Christmas party get-together is such a nice way to end our Olympic Club year, and a great way to kick-start the holiday season. 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 a heartfelt and thoughtful gesture to provide this offering for children who are less fortunate.
Lynn and I also want to extend sincere appreciation to Michael and Bonnie Hall who are the primary hosts for this annual event. They always do such an outstanding job with the planning, details, and preparations. Knowing them as we do, they're probably out right now looking for poinsettias and decorations for next year!
Best wishes to all of our members for a new year filled with happiness and good health.
BUSINESS AND PLANNING MEETING FOR OUR 2022 EVENTS
AND AWARDS CEREMONY
November 14th, 2022
Our annual planning meeting was a well-attended event at Frank and Cathy Stubbs’ new house.
We had 20 members in attendance including: Frank, Cathy and Kyle Stubbs, Michael and Bonnie Hall, Mel and Linda Lang, Bruce Eardley, Vickie Willson, Marty and Diana Antrum, Van and Lynn Victor, Fran and Dan DelDuca, Rick Len and Suzanne Hunter, Jim and JoAnne Hendry, Jon and Susan Hanson, Cliff Holland, Nancy Burress, and Donna Weisenberg.
After the house tour and the garage tour, the attendees snacked a bit on our lunch items before the meeting started. We skipped the presentation of the last meeting’s minutes, and the treasurer’s report, and went directly to a report from Cathy about the current news from CTCI. There is a tendency at International now to add a censoring of both international and local club communications, and they are discussing the idea of restricting local club membership to only those people paying CTCI dues - among a few other things. We’ll be discussing this, and the options for our local club, more at the January meeting.
We then turned the meeting over to lead Trustee Vickie, who reminded everyone that we’ll need a full slate of both officers and trustees for next year. We’ll elect them at the January meeting. She then led a discussion of the event ideas for next year. Below is the calendar we agreed upon. After that lively discussion we ran to the tables and enjoyed a wonderful pot-luck meal with plenty of meats, fruits, and especially desserts.
We had 20 members in attendance including: Frank, Cathy and Kyle Stubbs, Michael and Bonnie Hall, Mel and Linda Lang, Bruce Eardley, Vickie Willson, Marty and Diana Antrum, Van and Lynn Victor, Fran and Dan DelDuca, Rick Len and Suzanne Hunter, Jim and JoAnne Hendry, Jon and Susan Hanson, Cliff Holland, Nancy Burress, and Donna Weisenberg.
After the house tour and the garage tour, the attendees snacked a bit on our lunch items before the meeting started. We skipped the presentation of the last meeting’s minutes, and the treasurer’s report, and went directly to a report from Cathy about the current news from CTCI. There is a tendency at International now to add a censoring of both international and local club communications, and they are discussing the idea of restricting local club membership to only those people paying CTCI dues - among a few other things. We’ll be discussing this, and the options for our local club, more at the January meeting.
We then turned the meeting over to lead Trustee Vickie, who reminded everyone that we’ll need a full slate of both officers and trustees for next year. We’ll elect them at the January meeting. She then led a discussion of the event ideas for next year. Below is the calendar we agreed upon. After that lively discussion we ran to the tables and enjoyed a wonderful pot-luck meal with plenty of meats, fruits, and especially desserts.
2022 OCTC Calendar of Events
(All events subject to change based on availability)
Month Event Location Host
January Business Meeting at Fife Michael and Bonnie
Poodle Dog ??? Hall
February LeMay's, America's Car Tacoma Van and Lynn Victor,
Museum, Tacoma Donna Weisenberg
March Museum of Flight Seattle Jon and Susan Hanson
April Gary McKay's Garage Tour Tacoma Frank Stubbs
May Visit to Nardoland Snohomish Rick Len
June Scenic Drive around Hood Canal Lilliwaup, Vickie Willson
w/lunch at the Hamma-Hamma
Oyster Saloon
July 9th Thunderbird Picnic, Mt. Vernon Nancy Burress
11:00
August Mt St Helens - Spirit Lake Kelso ?? Chuck and Julie Birch
over-nighter
September Pacific Rim Tonewoods Tour Concrete Mel Lang
(weekday)
October Schack Art Center, Everett Vickie Willson
Schack-toberfest /
Glass blowing facility
November Annual Planning Meeting Newcastle Frank and Cathy Stubbs
December Christmas Party Kent Michael and Bonnie Hall
at Golden Steer ???
January Business Meeting at Fife Michael and Bonnie
Poodle Dog ??? Hall
February LeMay's, America's Car Tacoma Van and Lynn Victor,
Museum, Tacoma Donna Weisenberg
March Museum of Flight Seattle Jon and Susan Hanson
April Gary McKay's Garage Tour Tacoma Frank Stubbs
May Visit to Nardoland Snohomish Rick Len
June Scenic Drive around Hood Canal Lilliwaup, Vickie Willson
w/lunch at the Hamma-Hamma
Oyster Saloon
July 9th Thunderbird Picnic, Mt. Vernon Nancy Burress
11:00
August Mt St Helens - Spirit Lake Kelso ?? Chuck and Julie Birch
over-nighter
September Pacific Rim Tonewoods Tour Concrete Mel Lang
(weekday)
October Schack Art Center, Everett Vickie Willson
Schack-toberfest /
Glass blowing facility
November Annual Planning Meeting Newcastle Frank and Cathy Stubbs
December Christmas Party Kent Michael and Bonnie Hall
at Golden Steer ???
Get to Know Gig Harbor
Saturday 10/16/2021
HARBOR HISTORY MUSEUM
Followed by lunch at
IL LUCANO RESTAURANT
We meant at noon, starting out with thirteen of us - (Mike & Bonnie Hall, Van & Lynn Victor, Richard Mazza & Karen Cota, Frank & Cathy Stubbs & Kyle Stubbs, Dan & Fran DelDuca, Bruce Eardley, and Donna Wisenburg,) listening to the docent tell of the history of the T-Bird sailboat, The museum has the original hull of the well known plywood sailboat the THUNDEBIRD
There are over a thousand of these small sailboats that have been built, still in the area, and the east coast and Australia.
Then into the School House the one room schoolhouse built in 1893....it’s filled with memories for sure.
Then into the School House the one room schoolhouse built in 1893....it’s filled with memories for sure.
Next we can step aboard the SHENANDOAH, one of the first fishing boats built here in GIg Harbor in 1925..it fished for 72 years from the San Juans to Alaska. It is still being restored with some of the local crew still working on it. The guys went below to view the new engine, thought they would never get out of there…
Then there is the story of Jacob Henderson crossing the Pacific Ocean in a row boat. Fascinating to see the unusual row boat that was rowed from Neah Bay to Australia in 336 days in 2018. Jacob holds the record for the longest solo non stop, unaided row across the an ocean..
The museum was warm, friendly and has a lovely gift shop.
When we are done at the museum off for lunch at IL Lucanos in the center of town. Miguel is originally from Italy and puts out a great meal. We experienced authentic Italian cuisine, located in the heart of downtown Gig Harbor, WA. From traditional pasta dishes to specialty fish, poultry and meat, you'll find every selection to tempt your tastes. Fresh local ingredients are always used and all meals are made to order, just ask! Enjoy a glass of wine from our extensive Italian wine selection. Whether you're here for lunch or dinner, we take great pride in our food, service and dining atmosphere and assure you a uniquely Italian dining experience. All of Chef Michele’s dishes are made to order. If you have a special request, ask your server and we will try our best to accommodate. During lunch we were joined by Marty and Diane Antrim. We all enjoyed a truly Italian lunch , Red wine, pastas, desserts, along with good conversations..
All in all the the weather was pleasant, the tour and food was great and the company of fellow
T-Birders was the best..
Donna Wisenburg
When we are done at the museum off for lunch at IL Lucanos in the center of town. Miguel is originally from Italy and puts out a great meal. We experienced authentic Italian cuisine, located in the heart of downtown Gig Harbor, WA. From traditional pasta dishes to specialty fish, poultry and meat, you'll find every selection to tempt your tastes. Fresh local ingredients are always used and all meals are made to order, just ask! Enjoy a glass of wine from our extensive Italian wine selection. Whether you're here for lunch or dinner, we take great pride in our food, service and dining atmosphere and assure you a uniquely Italian dining experience. All of Chef Michele’s dishes are made to order. If you have a special request, ask your server and we will try our best to accommodate. During lunch we were joined by Marty and Diane Antrim. We all enjoyed a truly Italian lunch , Red wine, pastas, desserts, along with good conversations..
All in all the the weather was pleasant, the tour and food was great and the company of fellow
T-Birders was the best..
Donna Wisenburg
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
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
Sunday, July 11, 2021
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
PAST EVENTS FROM 2019
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
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