Suncoast Mustang Club
Volume 28 Issue 10
October, 2008
A Word From Wayne
Hello again.
Fall is here and a whole bunch of things to do come to mind as I am writing this. The Mustang Club of Tampa’s annual MOSI show is coming up on October 25. I hope to see a lot of you there. If anyone wants to get together and drive over together, e-mail me and we can make a plan.
In November we have 3 options for Sunday, the 16th. A group of Mustangers are getting together and attending the final NASCAR race at Homestead-Miami Speedway and displaying their cars on pit road before the race. See or call Bill Dellert for more info. Also a group of us are going to meet up with the Harley club and cruise up to Brooksville on some back roads and see a former members car collection and 50’s style malt shop he built right in his home. Al Clarke is setting this one up. There is also the Mustang Club of West Central Florida’s annual car show in St Armand’s Square in Sarasota on the same day. This is the same show they used to hold at the Bradenton mall, but with a new location. I will have contact info at the next meeting for those who want to attend this show.
The holidays will be here before you know it so make sure December 13th is on your social calendar. That is the date for our annual Christmas Holiday Party. As usual it will be held at the Mainland’s clubhouse and it will be catered by Mikes Deli. For those few who have never attended, just ask anyone who has and they will tell you it is the “can’t miss event of the year”. We have great food and lots of good fun doing games and gift exchanges.
This year we are partnering with the Mustang Club of Tampa to help run the show for this year’s “Mason Dixon’s Best of the Best Car Show” for the Christmas Wish Fund on Sunday, November 9th. I’ll have more information about this at our next meeting. Also, we will still be getting together this December for the Toys for Tots event despite all the troubles that have been thrown at us every time we do this event (in the past it has been rain and traffic snarls but this year we are expecting locusts and the plague).
Speaking of our next meeting, don’t forget it will be held at Sonic (49th Street and 82nd Avenue in Pinellas Park) at 7 pm. Bring your car and your appetite. I hope I did not leave out anything, but I hope to show you that there is plenty going on and we can do even more but we need your help.
The same people keep putting these things on and it would be great if we could get some new ideas and some help in planning and putting on these events. I will help anyone plan and put on an event so they don’t have to do it alone. Let me know your ideas and I will try to help make it happen.
Wayne Farnham
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Up to the
Minutes
Suncoast Mustang Club
Meeting held on 9-08-08 at AutoWay Ford
The monthly club meeting was called to order by President Wayne Farnham at 7:40 p.m. Our guest speaker got the dates mixed up and was a no-show, so we mostly talked about upcoming shows. The Tampa Club’s MOSI Show will be on Saturday, October 25th. The 45th Anniversary MCA National Show will be in Birmingham, Alabama from April 16th through 19th. They are looking for volunteers to help out. If you want to volunteer you can call Rick Lawless at 706 855-5783 or you can e-mail Rick at Funstang99@bellsouth.net
On Sunday, November 16th the club will have a cruise event from the Wal-Mart Supercenter in Pinellas Park to the Dade City home of Mr. Smalls. He has a nice collection of cars and an interesting barn that he keeps them in. We discussed taking back roads instead of the Interstate so we could enjoy some of the natural beauty of the state.
The date and place for the Christmas Holiday Party is Saturday, December 13th at Mainland’s Clubhouse #1. It will begin at 6:00 PM.
On a sad note, Allen Rice’s mother passed away recently. Our condolences to Allen and his family.
Respectfully submitted,
Steve Hansen
Club Secretary
Happy Birthday to...
Robert Nielson 10/6
William Johnson 10/9
Joseph Speakes 10/17
Lois Dring 10/25
Sherman Bliss 10/28
Gloria Lockwood 10/28
Karen Slacter 10/29
Happy Anniversary to...
Bob & Sharon Wilhelm
10/18
Gary & Gail Oakley 10/22
Joe & June Brend 10/27
Vic & Karen Slacter 10/27
2008 SUNCOAST MUSTANG CLUB OFFICERS:
President Wayne Farnham 727-573-9696 wayne@restomodplus.com
Vice President John Stockowski 727-321-6341 jstockowski@tampabay.rr.com
Secretary Steve Hansen 727 397-0100 hansenskmb@yahoo.com
Treasurer & Newsletter Editor Bill Dellert 727-343-4187 bdellert3@hotmail.com
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My Favorite Mustang
By Roland Martens
Don’t laugh folks! In response to the Pony Tales editor’s request for an article justifying the what and why of “my favorite Mustang”, I chose to write about my present Mustang. After all, why would I plunk down over $30,000.00 of my hard-earned cash for a brand new car that didn’t have a very strong appeal (and that was in 1999 dollars)? I am still convinced that I made a good decision.
So, if you think I am just being biased and am trying to pat myself on the back for a wise automobile purchase, give me a chance to explain the origin of my passion.
As is our custom, my son, Cory, and I journeyed all the way to the Tampa Convention Center to attend the huge International Auto Show in the fall of 1998. Among the dozens of new and interesting cars, we of course being long time Mustang nuts were drawn to the Ford display like a fly to flypaper. We were quickly captivated by the all-new 1999 Mustang. It represented a substantial evolution from the previous models. So in the months ahead it warranted repeated visits to dealer showrooms and numerous safaris around hot auto lots to check out all the different models, accessories and colors. This activity is par for the course for an automobile hobbyist like me. But, folks, something just wasn’t quite right about these new models that would cause me to reach for the big dollars. Almost end of story, right? Nope, read on.
The following summer my wife and I were vacationing in North Carolina. On a typical sight seeing day, as we came over the hill leading into Waynesville, on the left was the local Ford dealer. In the most conspicuous space on the lot a new 1999 Mustang was featured that was just different enough in the right ways to attract my attention. I almost automatically zoomed into the lot (after receiving my wife’s blessings, of course). Wow! This Mustang was just different enough from its siblings to be really sharp! I explored details in and out, under and over while thinking, “Man, I really like this baby”. My excitement was followed by dismay, when I found that it was a limited production model and that this one was no longer for sale and that others were no longer in production. Noticing my obvious disappointment, the sales person sympathetically suggested that I might be able to find one of these scarce models after returning to Florida. That thought weighed in the back of my mind until we returned to St. Petersburg.
By then I was extremely anxious to continue my quest at the numerous Ford dealerships in the Tampa Bay region. So, guess what? Most of the dealers looked at me as though I was some kind of nut (h’mmmm) because they never heard of such a car. Finally, one kind soul searched using his trusty computer and found that there were two of these special edition models in Miami. Being a cautious purchaser, it wasn’t practical, nor prudent, for me to sign on the dotted line to buy a car sight-unseen. However that was the only way the South Florida dealer would part with this rare model. End of story yet? Not quite. Perseverance pays. I decided to try one more local dealer who agreed to try to locate this rare car model. Lo and behold, he found a Performance Red GT convertible fully equipped with all of the bells and whistles. My imagination blossomed with mental pictures of this beautiful hunk of automobile; but there was a catch. The local salesperson wouldn’t tell me where the car was located and unless I signed a contract he wouldn’t have it delivered. I have learned to always dicker on price and thoroughly inspect and test drive any vehicle before purchase. That is the name of the game when purchasing automobiles. But I guess that when you’re in love you do unexpected things. Right, guys? So, in one of my weaker moments, I signed the contract and agreed to pay list price. On this deal, they had me where they wanted me. (But at least I didn’t give in on all of those add-on special dealer fees).
What next? I fully expected an anxious, timeless wait, of course. However, much to my surprise, I got a phone call the very next day stating that my pet had already arrived and inviting us to get together to become acquainted that very evening. What a pleasant surprise! (By the way, the car had been located in Bartow, Florida.) So after work and in anxious anticipation I gathered my family together, complete with video camera, and headed out for our initial meeting – in the rain no less! Oh, well. That wouldn’t be the last time the car would get wet. But knowing me, the guy who likes to detail cars, it sure would have been nice to have perfect weather. After the usual financial pain and prolific paper work was completed, we were able to go into the shop where the dealer prep was in progress. Oh, what a beautiful sight to behold – and that Performance Red really was just that. It just looked hot. Wow! My son video taped the whole sight including the ceremonial passing of keys from the sales person to the new owner and finally the exciting drive home – in the rain!
So for those who are wondering, here are some of the reasons why this is my favorite Mustang:
(Continued on Page 4)
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The following features are only on the limited production editions:
Sequel. After over nine years of tender, loving care, numerous fun drives, and the opportunity to enjoy the camaraderie of other Mustang fans like those in the Suncoast Mustang Club, I am convinced that love at first sight can lead to some exciting and rewarding experiences – even with my favorite Mustang.
So, folks, this is my personal pony tale and now I’m looking forward to hearing your favorite pony tale.
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Club Member “Stuff”
Election Time will be here soon. Not just for the politicians who will spend our money but for those who will keep the club running for 2009. Officers and Board of Directors will have to be chosen by the end of the year. As with any organization, change is good. In this club, change only happens when someone finally decides he or she has been doing this for so long that the only way to get someone to take over is to declare that you just will not do this job again. Maybe this year can be different!!! We have a great group of talented people and in this club and it would be terrific if some of you who haven’t been on the Board of Directors or been a club officer to finally take that step and become more involved. You never know how good you’ll be at something until you try. There will be more discussion about this at the next meeting.
For 2009, Bill Dellert has volunteered to be show chairman for our spring show. Bill has made contact with the city of Pinellas Park and a date should be set by the end of next week. Once the date is set, publications will be notified and flyers will be produced. After the Christmas holidays a show committee will be formed and it will meet as needed to make the next show our best ever. Having a successful show takes a lot of work but we’ve done it before and will do it again. It’s never too soon to start thinking about becoming involved. This will also be discussed at the next meeting.
Lucy Carroll recently spoke with Betty Engle. She’s having some rotator cup issues but she is still the same wonderful Betty that we’ve grown to love. She always enjoys hearing from club members. Betty’s phone # is 727 784-0928. If you have the time, give her a call. We all look forward to seeing her at club events soon.
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Club Member Stuff Continued…
Connie O’Connor wanted to share this note with club members…
“I want to thank the club for a wonderful planter with daisies (my favorite). I also want to thank all of you who sent cards, and words of support for my son David. He is being treated at Moffitt Cancer Center and has one full week of chemotherapy followed by two weeks at home with IV therapy to try to build up his immune system. This is expected to go on thru the first of the year. All we can do is hope and pray and we do appreciate all of your prayers.
Hugs to all, Connie”
Our friends at the Mustang Club of Tampa have shared this information about a new website that has lots of good “car stuff” information. It is http://www.motoringtampabay.com . If you have a chance, check it out. They post information about car shows and you can even download a flyer for the upcoming MOSI show from here.
Ever wanted to meet Jack Roush. Jack will be at Brandon Ford’s 3rd Annual Jack Roush Visitation Car Show. The date is Thursday, November 13th. For more information contact Brandon Ford on Adamo Drive in Tampa.
Three club members have cars for sale right now. Here are the details.
1966 Mustang Coupe - Springtime Yellow with Black Vinyl Top and Interior. 289 (C-Code) V-8, Cruise-O-Matic Transmission, Power Steering and Brakes. Completely restored with all paperwork and maintenance records. An Excellent Occasional or Daily Driver Show Car which has won Gold and Silver Awards in these classes. Asking $18,000 or best offer. Contact Donna Park 727-432-8594 or e-mail pimsqueen@aol.com
2000 Mustang GT Convertible, 5spd, 60K, deluxe model, Performance Red with Tan leather interior and top. Eibach springs, cold induction, BF Goodrich T/A's almost new, Flowmaster Exhaust System, CD/Cassette, Bra, Cover and more. VERY Nice Condition. Call Peter 727 559-7177 or home 727 447-7376 $8950.00 Pictures can be found in the Auto Trader.
2001 Mustang GT Convertible - Black , Tan Top & Tan interior, 70,750 miles Auto, PW, PDL, Cruise Control, Power Driver’s Seat Mach 1 Stereo & CD player, 17" Bullet Chrome Wheels with Pony Center Caps and new “Z” rated tires, Flowmaster 40 series mufflers & stainless steel tips, New antenna & cable, New switch, sensor & motor for convertible top, S & D Cold Air Intake (with enclosed filter), New Window Tint with life time warranty ($ 50 to transfer), New Ceramic brake pads on front wheels, Rear Axle oil drained & cleaned recently, Custom Car Cover by Steeda, Balance of extended warranty (25 months/25,000 miles) ONLY $ 100 deductible & ONLY $50 to transfer to new owner, Clean Title of Vehicle and vehicle is in “very good” condition Selling Price:
$ 11,975 Serious Inquires call: Alan Kapell (727) 906-0095
Suncoast Mustang Club
6705 Cardinal Drive South
St. Petersburg, Florida 33707-3803
Check out the club website at
DATES TO REMEMBER
· October 13th SMC Meeting at Sonic in Pinellas Park – 7:00 PM
· October 25th MOSI Show, sponsored by Mustang Club of Tampa
· November 9th Mason Dixon Christmas Wish Car Show
· November 10th SMC Meeting at AutoWay Ford – 7:30 PM
· November 13 – Jack Rouse Visitation Car Show at Brandon Ford
· November 16 (3 choices) SMC Cruise to Brooksville, Mustang Club of West Central Florida’s Show at St. Armand’s Circle, or Mustangs on Display at Homestead-Miami Speedway
· December 13th SMC Christmas Holiday Party at Mainland’s Clubhouse #1 – 6:00PM