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Valley Vettes Photo
Album
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| 2011 |
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December
17
Valley Vette Club Christmas Party
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Fifty-four members attended the party at Fox Banquets
in downtown Appleton.
On arrival, members were presented with envelopes containing, drink
tickets, game tickets, nametags and place cards. They were also given a
"new identity" for the “Guess Who You Are Game” which created some
conversation and fun before dinner. A Toss game provided an opportunity
for those that could have a cocktail and still throw straight Prizes
given for the best female score and best male score. They were won
respectively by Irene Janos and John Hartl. There were many Silent
Auction items to bid on and there was some serious bidding going on right
up until dessert was served and all bids were cut off. A couple of items
like the Christmas Quilt made by Terri Lee Garafalo and the Clay Mathews
Packer Shirt donated by Geiger Auto Body saw many trips being made from
the dining room to the bidding room.
The dining room presented a very festive atmosphere for our family style
dinner of Salad, Chicken Florentine, Beef/mushrooms and Vegetables. The
Club provided a cake for dessert. Gary Brandt gave the Blessing for our
meal. Steve Bender handed out Certificates of Recognition for
participation in club events and announced the ‘Member of the Year’ to be
Bob Driessen. Unfortunately, Bob was not at the dinner and did not get
handed the beautiful new trophy for this award. After dinner, the winners
of the Silent Auction were announced.
There were 27 creatively wrapped gifts for the ‘Member Auction’ and Randy
and Jack were the auctioneers. A little competition made for a very
successful outcome of the auction. To take a break for the auctioneers
and the bidders, we had a table by table Christmas Carol competition.
Judges were brought in from Canada and Oshkosh (Randy and Jack). Very
funny and well done by all! It was everything from All I Want for
Christmas is My Two Front Teeth to the Norwegians “praising” lutefisk.
The proceeds from the ‘Member Auction’ go to help with club operating
expenses and a charitable donation. Door prizes, including the table
centerpieces, were awarded to the draw winners.
Many members stayed after conclusion of the formal
program to visit with friends.
Hosts: Linda and Randy Hutchinson also Jane and Jack Binder |
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December 10, 2011
Salvation Army Bell Ringing
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We served
a 2 hour shift, Saturday mid-afternoon, at the Shopko entrances to the
Northland mall. Eight bell ringers attended and we had a nice time
spreading Christmas cheer and exchanging car stories while Antonette’s two
children handed out candy canes. Due to busy schedules and Herb’s back
pain, Penny & Jim had to go it alone for food & drink at
Beefeaters
British Grille. Supporting the Salvation Army’s kettle drive
is a great way to get in the holiday spirit and what a better way to ring
it in then with a group of friends from the Valley Vettes.
Hope you
and your family have a great Christmas!
Herb Grube |
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October 22 Club Birthday Party
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The weather was beautiful for the annual club birthday party. This year’s
celebration consisted of a pig roast at the Town of Center Hall. The pig
began his preparation for dinner at 9:00 A.M.. As the sixty club members
arrived to the party, they were greeted with the great aroma of the
roasting pig.
We then enjoyed the great taste of not only the pork, but also chicken for
dinner at 5:00 P.M..
After dinner, many door prizes were handed out. A raffle was also held for
the club banner that was displayed at the National Corvette Museum. Terry
Lee Garofalo was the lucky winner. Congratulations to her! We would also
like to thank Gary Kaphingst and Marty Garofalo for the great music and
sound system for the party. We sincerely hope everybody who attended the
club party had a GREAT time.
Valerie & Gary
Patti & Dan
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October 9 Woods Brunch Cruise
The weather for our Oct. 9th ride was outstanding, sunny and 80
degrees. The first part of our trip with 12 cars and 1 tin car, took us to
THE WOODS for brunch. The food and service was great. They had all 28 of
us fed and out the door in one hour.
From THE WOODS we had a forty min. ride to De Young's Family Zoo. We got
there just in time for feeding the big cats. It was amazing to see how the
cats knew it was lunch time. The owner would throw meat over the fence and
the cats would jump into the air to catch it, and be right back for
more. We then moved on to see the female zoo assistant get in with Hyenas
and let them come by her for hug and face lick. We then went to see,
Wallace the hippo, there I was allowed to hand feed him. There are
hundreds more animals to see and touch.
To finish the trip we stopped for ice cream.
Bob Driessen |
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October 7
Valley Vettes Helps Appleton East High School
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The weather could not have been better for a fall evening parade and
football game. The students at Appleton East welcomed 16 beautifully
polished corvettes and their chauffeur's for a short ride from Meade
Pool to their school. It is so nice to be on a one to one visit, with
some future vette owners. I just hope Andy realized that I was having
as much fun as him. The spectators were really enjoying the students
and the kids behind the wheel (revving their engines).
I don't want to take anything away from some hard working football
players, but do you think it might have helped to get their motors
running too? Appleton East - 19, Wausau East - 7. GO APPLETON EAST.
We then headed out to Van Abel's for a great fish fry and well deserved
beverages. Thanks for Judy and Greg Tate's help in this whole endeavour,
along with the backing of Marty Garofalo. As Janelle Townsend of
Appleton East said, "You guys rock".
Steve Bender
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August 27
Powder Puff Cruise
What an AWESOME day… It was a beautiful, sun-shiny morning when 19 happy,
smiling ladies left the Darboy Club parking lot in 10 fast and furious
corvettes. A 1 ½ hour drive included some unique buildings, an un-planned
detour along the way that included a roller-coaster hill, and
breath-taking views of the countryside and lake and a police officer
following Val. That ended with our first destination arriving in Algoma
at the von Stiehl Winery. A few of the ladies had already determined it
must be a winery but not knowing the location if Jean was one of the
hosts. They know her too well. An interesting tour was taken of the
original tunnels for wine making and the winery’s expanded facilities
before proceeding to the “tasting bar”. We all left with a little less
money that covered our many purchases. Traveling again for one more hour
brought the group to Royal St Patrick’s Golf Links in Wrightstown for a
late lunch, a few door prizes and a purse party. Of course, that meant
spending a few more dollars if you so desired. All in all it was a super
day to put some miles on our vettes and get together with a wonderful, fun
filled group of Lady Valley Vettes and their guests.
Hosts Jean Brandt & Val Sieg |
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August 21
Road America
Four cars left Sherwood just as the sun was climbing into the sky. These
early birds would not be denied an early start to see some of the rarest
Vetts ever to set a wheel on the track, along with some great drivers.
Since I was a virgin at Road America, I turned the lead over to Phil
Gross. It was an awesome day with just the right mix of high octane fuel,
and cool breezes. We ran into another seven members of the club, along
with some past members. A poster of the event will soon grace the
hallowed walls of my man cave! This just made the day even more
memorable. As far as who won, it will always be the fans of the bow tie &
Corvette.
Steve Bender |
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Shiocton Fireman’s Parade &
Festival
If Norman Rockwell had painted a picture of the typical, rural mid-western
small town summer celebration, he might have chosen the Shiocton Parade as
his model. Green John Deer tractors, red fire trucks from neighboring
communities, the high school football team accompanied by the high school
band (playing the 60's anthem Louie Louie), numerous floats, all throwing
candy to the throngs of onlookers lining the streets. Some of the
loudest cheers and warmest greetings were given to the 19 Corvettes of
Valley Vettes as they were envied by both young and old parade goers.
Later the cars were staged at the local park and many of the residents had
the chance to admire them from up close. The corn roast was excellent and
Valley Vette drivers had the chance to sit and relax in the shade. Jim
and Penny Much led the contingent on twisting, winding back roads to
Geno's Steak House to cap off a perfect summer day.
Greg & Judy Tate |
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Blueberry Cruise
We met at Sidelines and left at 6:08PM. Nine
cars traveled north on hwy 76 and took backroads to the Blueberry farm. At
the farm (which opened just for us) we all purchased all the blueberries
we wanted.
In addition some purchased blueberry preserves as well as blueberry juice
drinks. We had a wagon ride around the farm which showed just how big this
farm is. It is HUGE! The folks at the Blueberry farm were great hosts and
nice people to work with. Next year they will send me an email as soon as
the berries are ready so we can do this again.
After leaving the blueberry farm, we
headed West and then South back through New London and then to Charlie's
Drive In in Hortonville where we |
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greeted by none other than Marilyn Monroe dressed in her finest white
gown. Then to our surprise ELVIS came out to greet us!! He had several
pictures taken with the club members and Elvis even gave all the ladies
nice red roses! We had great food and ice cream and headed home from
there. What a fun group of club members to travel with!
PS: Everybody is raving about their
purchases at the club meeting Thursday Night
Joe & Alice Q. |
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Bloomington Gold
Our two car caravan headed for Bloomington Gold at 7:30 A.M..
It was an unusually chilly day for Bloomington Gold. We set out to search
for our various items, checking out "For Sale" cars, auction cars and
vendors. We checked out an elaborate collection up for sale from Bill
Mullis of North Carolina. He was selling, at no reserve, 23 black
Corvettes from 1954 to 1969, one coupe and one convertible from each year.
Wow!! We met up with the Quaintances and Binders at the hotel. A few
of our group got Bidder tags for Saturday. I wonder if anyone bought
anything? Nice get together with plenty of entertainment.
Dale & Carrie Skovera |
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July 9
Vettes for Vets Ride
It was a gorgeous day
for a ride. Cool breeze with occasional sun. But first, Gary Brandt has a
dilemma. His 2007 convertible, parked on the bottom of the lift with the
1988 on top, has a dead battery and no power for anything. This
conclusion was reached with Gary in the car with the top up, the windows
down and no phone to call Jean in the house. “How do I get out?” Of
course, crawl through the window. A picture of that experience would have
been talked about for years. In his haste, forgot you can use the key fob
in the glove box switch to open a door.
Left
Simon’s Cheese in Little Chute with seven cars headed to the “Pearly
Gates” …in Green Bay. This year’s ceremony honored women in the service
and was very awe inspiring. 14 women of all ages were presented with
certificates and roses. Just after noon, the motorcycles revved their
engines with over 500 leading the way followed by approximately 50
corvettes and a few other vehicles. Traveled to Fox Hills Resort in
Mishicot for food and beverages with Steve Bender and Gary Brandt
interviewed by WFRV Channel 5 Tom Zalaski; and then to the Iron Buffalo in
Menchalville. With a change in the previously determined eating
establishment, the Valley Vettes group, without Bob Driessen, then headed
west to the Granary in Sherwood for some fantastic food, more beverages
and a lot of camaraderie and laughter. We added Linda Hutchinson to the
group by special invitation phone call so Randy was not so alone. With
our illustrious president and former president presenting an array of
hilarity, it turned out to be a GREAT day for everyone.
Jean Brandt |
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| June 19
Father's Day Dinner Cruise
Nine cars left
Greenville in the rain for a scenic cruise through the back roads. As we
went by TNT lanes in Shiocton we asked if anyone wanted to bowl a game.
The answer was no. We continued on to our beverage stop at Buzz and Mac's
on Cloverleaf Lake. Thanks to the rain, there were no drinks on the deck,
so we had our refreshments in the bar. Leaving there we continued on more
back roads ending at Hotel Seymour for dinner. After dinner we all sang
Happy Birthday to John Stafford. Of course the rain stopped as we were
pulling into Seymour. Oh well, Good Friends and Good Food still makes for
great day. Thanks Everyone.
Penny
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June 11
Appleton Flag Day Parade
The weather turned out great for cars in the parade, 60 degrees and
cloudy. No overheating this year. The crowd enjoying the parade may have
been down a little this year but still major people. The thing that the
guys and girls missed this year as participants in the parade were the
halter tops/short shorts on the girls and the tank tops on the guys.
People attending this year’s parade were, Frank & Marge Seis, Gary Seig
and his dad, Dan & Patti Parker, Pat Murray, Mike Murray and his son Nick,
Bob Dreissen and his son Craig, Rob & Nancy McCarry and Dick & Carol. We
started the parade route a little before three and were done about an hour
later. Four couples ended up at JD’s for food and ice cream afterwards. A
couple of girls kept looking at the turtle Sundays until they couldn’t
take it any longer and went up and got their own. I hope you had enough
pecans.
Dick Rank |
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June 5 Trip
Around The Lake
The weather was beautiful for the 40th
Annual Trip Around The Lake. Eight cars left the Kohls parking lot for the
Forest Mall in Fond du Lac. There, we joined-up with about 200 Corvettes.
The trip included a half way stop at Waverly Beach, where several more
club members joined us. The trip concluded at Holiday Auto in Fond du Lac,
where we enjoyed music, food, and drinks. Special thanks to the Fond de
Vettes for organizing this great event.
Valerie & Gary |
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June 4
2011 Great Wisconsin Cheese Festival Parade
We had 7 cars in the parade. The parade was well
organized and a great route. We were number 47 out of 53 units. The parade
was well attended by the public and they were happy to see the cars. We
had many positive comments from the public about the cars, and the
passengers. Judy Tate rode with “ELMO” and I rode with my Golden Retriever
“JAKE”. Needless to say, both were very popular. All cars had flags flying
and it looked impressive. I heard many comments about the club from
Appleton.
This was our 1st annual event with this
parade and by club member’s comments at the end; it will not be our last.
I will get back to the people in charge of the parade and thank them for
inviting us.
Joe Quaintance |
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May 22
Praire du Chien Dinner & Casino Cruise
Three bands of wanderers headed west from the Kohl’s parking lot toward
the great Mississippi River. We saw many wonderful things along our way.
We saw waterfalls, bought wonderful cookies and saw quilt shops that flew
by and beautiful angora goats. The trip was filled with many hazard-like
rock slides, pouring rain and angry muskrats, but we zoomed on to Praire
du Chien where we had a fantastic dinner and a exciting night on board the
Lady Luck Casino. All of us still own our cars and home so I guess it was
a good night. In the morning some traveled back to the safety of home, but
others pushed on up the great river. She is beautiful beyond description.
We stopped at many interesting shops, none were open but we did stop. We
drove on to the National Eagle Center in Wabasha and saw the most amazing
show. No American should miss this; it’s a wonderful place to take the
grandkids. We stopped for the night at a quaint little motel in Lake City
and walked down the street and had an outstanding dinner on Pepin Lake.
Back to the motel for an exciting game of dominoes and then off to sleep.
Next day we headed North to Red Wing to by shoes and browse the shops in
the old mill. Then we started the long ride home.
Terry Lee |
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C3 Fun Fest |
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May 15, 2011
Fox Valley Road & Track Classic
Valley Vettes were represented by Joe Quaintance and Bob Driessen at the
breakfast at North Shore Country Club. We had a nice breakfast and
speaker. Valley Vettes were recognized as one of the sponsors.
After the speaker was done we all travelled to 0 to 60 Garage for some
social time and car gazing. The Tour to Road America left at 10:15 AM with
Joe from Valley Vettes. Bob had other pressing business to take care of.
The group traveled to Road America in a nice caravan and arrived at 11:50
AM with the track tour scheduled at noon. The tour started around 12:10
and we had about 40 cars on the track. Usual rules, no passing the pace
car and no passing. I never saw the pace car and during the second lap I
was passed by a Grey Z06 driven by a local wealthy man. Since I am a
follower I decided to start passing as well. My son Marc was with me
during the whole trip in his BMW and on the track with some great driving
skills, managed to keep up to me most of the time or catch up as needed.
J
This was a fun ride and we behaved most of the time
J
Joe
Quaintance |
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| February 12
Steak Fry |
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time. Valley Vette members totaled 45 for this annual event. Of course, we
started with appetizers (the assortment was a meal in itself), beer (more
Corona next time) and wine. Joe graciously went to buy 6 more bottles as
the ladies ran out of the specialty - Riesling. Our superb chefs, Steve
and Rick, did a fantastic job with the steaks again. I think it is
something they enjoy doing. Try and get out of that job now won’t be easy.
The meal in itself was delicious but especially with all the desserts that
were brought. Entertainment with some very unique prizes is attributed to
Carrie. “Coupe” in the form of bingo was a blast. Some did not like the
numbers that were being called as it did not help their game plan. It was
also amazing that four couples got all 20 questions right for the
baby-boomers Memory Trivia game. Special thanks to Dale Skovera for the
wonderful slide show of “memories” that ran all evening. It took a lot of
work and time to put that all together. Thanks to Club Members for getting
those photos to Dale. Of course, there was our honorary MC - Mr Brandt.
Gary does not need a microphone and brought out his wit at the right
moments. Having this event held at the Whiting Boathouse also gives the
evening a cozy, warm-fuzzy feeling for all who attend. The enjoyment with
socializing was such that no one wanted to leave early. Thank you to all
who helped clean up at the close of the evening. It truly was a fantastic
time. Now we can look forward to getting our cars out for another season. |
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February 4 Spina Bifida Dance - Darboy Club
The fish
fry was enjoyed by 19 club members and 4 guests (former members). It
appeared that everyone had enough to eat and I didn't hear anyone
complain about the quality of the food.
There
were 15 members come upstairs for the dance/raffle and camaraderie. We
had several members and family and friends that won either door prizes
or the bucket raffle items. They took in $427.00 dollars for the B.J.
Raji football from Bergstrom's. A big thanks goes out to Herb Grube for
all the door prizes he got including the football. Also other other
members that either donated or went out and got prizes/certificates.
Once again Russ Borchardt sold over $700.00 worth of tickets and he had
a $500.00 winner.
Will
give you a Spina Bifida total before the newsletter if we get it.Again,
thank you all who helped out for this cause that we had something to do
with since 1986.
Dick Rank
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October 29
Valley Vettes Halloween Party |
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Waube Lodge trip led by Bob
Driessen |
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August
Shiocton Parade
I Love a Parade
An eleven Corvette contingency from Valley Vettes led by Saun
McCarry highlighted the Shiocton Parade. Greeted by cheers and waves from
people lining the streets, the club has become a regular entry over the
years. Even the storms that hammered the community the night before could
not dampen the spirits of those attending. The corn roast was once again
excellent. After nourishment, the group took a circular cruise on the
open roads north and west of town. The final destination turned out to be
The Pine Tree Supper Club in Royalton. With tops down the entire day,
this event will be one we remember deep into the coming winter. |
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August 21 Pelican Lake Ride
We left The Waters in New London for a scenic ride to the Pelican Lake
Campground. Aside from some construction in Tigerton, the ride up went
well. The leaders were a little concerned because of the storms and
flooding the night before.
At the campground we snacked and had beverages while people admired and
discussed our cars. I had someone ask to sit in ours and have her picture
taken. It was like I made her week. We then joined the campers for a
potluck supper and corn roast and performed in their first annual parade.
After leaving the campground, we went to Rhinelander where we celebrated
the Hodag's 150th birthday by going to a street dance. The Copper Box,
which is a band out of Oshkosh, played and were very good.
Sunday we met for breakfast and some of us went on to a car show in
Hazelhurst, while the rest of us went home stopping on the way at gift
shops and at Cloverlake Lake for a beer on the deck.
Penny Much |
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The Powder Puff Cruisers - 2010
It was a misty Saturday
morning at the Wave when 18 ladies and 9 Corvettes gathered for the first
annual “Powder Puff” cruise. What a thrill for us when a carload of young
girls stopped and asked, “Do you ladies all own these Corvettes? Wow!”
At the drivers meeting the ladies all assured us they would be much better
than their male counterparts at cruise etiquette. They proved they were
correct. Traveling down streets and county roads the group wined west to
a bed and breakfast in Waupaca called Green Fountain Inn. Despite the
preordering of our lunch the delicious food was slow in coming, nearly 2
hours. Forced to abandon and second half of the scenic cruise, the group
headed down highway 10 to Oshkosh and the Paine Art Museum and Gardens
featuring the Norman Rockwell display. After a sweet treat of chocolate,
they were provided a guided tour of the home. Until next year . . .
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2009
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| August Club Picnic |
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October 17
UW-Oshkosh Homecoming Parade
Ten cars from the Valley Vette Corvette Club gathered early Saturday
morning, October 17th to cruise to UW-Oshkosh to particiapte in the
Titan's Homecoming Parade. Staging was held at the Student Wellness and
Fitness Center, and the hot coffee served on this damp cold day was much
appreciated. With university dignitaries aboard, the vettes led this
year's Tour de Bike through the streets of Oshkosh for a 5.5 mile trek to
the tent city set up at Titan Stadium. Returning to gather the entire
crew, our group caravaned along US 45 to Fond du Lac stopping there for
lunch. Appetites satisified, club members proceded north on Hwy 151 to its
destination at the Little Farmer. Even the snafu of misplaced orders
didn't dampen spirits. With "sweets for the sweet," on Sweetest Day no
less, procured then secured inside cars, everyone returned home completing
the mini "trip around the lake."
Greg & Judy Tate |
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August 15 Shiocton Parade
Saturday, August 17th, was a picture perfect summer
day. Warm temperatures, sunny blue skies. A great day for a parade.
Smiling, friendly people lined the streets of Shiocton and waved and greeted
the 16 car contingent from Valley Vettes. Sean McCarry once again had the
honor position as he took the point and led the other Corvettes. A special
thanks to Phil Gross who got the group out from behind the asphalt truck at
staging and avoided being placed behind teams of horses (potentially a
different type of “ass pahlt!”)
Following the parade, the group congregated in the shade of Shiocton Park to
partake in the corn roast. Mary Schrodt went horse back riding and probably
would have taken her ride home if she had the chance. But that’s not the
kind of horse power Ivan is interested in collecting. Jim and Penny Much,
in their new ride, later led the group over winding country roads to Geno’s
for dinner. A great end to a great day.
When asked if he would do it again next year, Sean
McCarry didn’t hesitate. “Oh yeah, but next year I’m going to . . . .
.” Mark your calendars. It’s already in the planning stages.
Greg & Judy Tate |
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Flag Day Parade 2009 |
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Club Meeting & Dinner June 12, 2008
Tornado warning puts us in the basement before dinner. Wasn't this
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“Rain, rain, go away…” and it did!
Morning clouds gave way to afternoon sunshine as the contingent of Valley
Vette corvettes motored out of Neenah and headed west. As promised, our
caravan stopped at Union Star in Zittau for some of Wisconsin’s best
cheese. The journey continued into Fremont and then along the Wolf River
and around Lake Poygan. Our return trip through Wisconsin countryside was
highlighted by the sight of nesting eagles. Returning to Neenah, Mike and
Vicki Holschbach owners of Choice’s (and also a Corvette) warmly
greeted us and then treated us to a fabulous dining experience.
We capped off the day with dessert at Marty and Terry Lee’s. Even the
Garofalo’s English Cocker Sparky seemed to enjoy the camaraderie of the
group.
Special
thanks to Ron and Kathy Babbitz for organizing a great event.
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July 11,12 Veterans Memorial Ride
On Saturday morning, July 11, 12
members of Valley Vettes (Phil and Donna Gross, Dale and Carrie Skovera,
Rick and Ike Janos, Joe and Alice Quaintance, Mark and Betsy Quaintance, and
Randy and Linda Hutchinson) and a future Corvette enthusiast, Uncle Larry,
headed for the Pearly Gates in Green Bay for the 4th Annual
Veterans Ride. Tom Zalaski (one of the anchors of WFRV-TV) was the emcee,
and at 11:00 a.m. a memorial service was held to honor fallen and injured
soldiers of past wars. The color guard and bag pipes made the ceremony
special.
12:00 Noon
signaled the start for over 400 bikes and 25 Corvettes (18 from the
Green Bay club) to head out on the first leg of the ride. We stopped in
Manitowoc for a buffet lunch and a chance to check out the bikes and Vettes.
The second part took us to the
Iron Buffalo Saloon for liquid refreshments to combat dehydration from the
sunny 80o weather.
The ride
ended back at the Pearly Gates Bar and Restaurant around 5:00 p.m. Evening
entertainment included a band and drawings for great prizes, including a new
Harley motorcycle and a 4-wheeler.
This was a special day for Dale Skovera’s
Uncle Larry. He left in a 1996 Torch Red Corvette convertible to take back
home to Elgin, Illinois. The Veterans Memorial Ride is one he will never
forget. What a great test ride in RIX9D6.
Submitted by Rick Janos |
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2009 Little Rock, AR, Corvette Show
Six couples from the Valley Vettes Corvette Club – the Tates, Brandts,
Seises, Janoses, Schrodts, and Skoveras – ventured south to Arkansas to
attend the Central Arkansas Corvette Club (CACC) Corvette Weekend. The
group enjoyed warm weather, twisting mountain highways and roads, good food,
and warm Southern hospitality. The Wisconsin travelers did well at the
show. Gary and Jean Brandt took home a best in class trophy with their C –
6 convertible. Valley Vettes won the award for the club travelling farthest
to attend the event. The journey was a long one, but as club members know,
the journey is never long between friends. If you see one the attendees,
ask about Arkansas “hockey trails.” |
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May 31 May Kickoff
Cruise
Hosts: Much's and Garofalo's
13 cars left T&T lanes in Shiocton to cruise back roads through Shawano, the
Mennomine Indian reservations and into Lakewood to the Winery.
We had a rest stop at Keshena, were we seemed to have put on a car show.
Dick Rank's car was a hit. After the wine shop, we cruised on to
Townsend were we ate at
The Hillcrest Lodge. On the way back some of us stopped at Geno's near Jim
and Penny's for an after dinner drink.
I would like to thank Terry Lee and Marty for their help organizing and
being the rear car.
We had a great time and hope everyone else did.
Penny Much |
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Steak Fry 2009
Neither snow nor the darkness of night
deterred 38 members of Valley Vettes from navigating to the Whiting Boat
House in Neenah for the annual steak fry. Social time started at 6:00 with
appetizers provided by club members and a fine selection of beer and wine.
Thanks to Phil Gross, our VP, there was no skunky beer this year.
Rib eye steaks and prime rib were char
broiled to perfection by resident chiefs Steve “Esteban” Bender and Rick
“Enrique” Janos. Included with the dinner were baked potatoes, salad, dinner
rolls and home- made desserts brought by our own members.
After dinner, Gary Kaphingst
challenged the well-fed and content group with a ten-song identification
quiz of old sports car cruizin tunes. Nobody got a perfect score, but it
sure was fun singing along the words you did know.
Mark your calendar for Saturday,
February 13th, for the 2010 Steak Fry.
Submitted by Rick Janos |
| 2008 |
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Shiocton Parade 2008 |
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Krazy Bowling
2008
The men
drew partner’s names plus the lane number they would start on. Rules were
reviewed, because Bowling and Krazy Bowling may both take place indoors and
both may use those funny little balls with holes drilled in strange
locations the similarities end there. The games are now underway.
During the course of the afternoon we heard a variety of comments. Why
couldn’t I do this during Scotch Doubles instead of during the leaster. Oh
No, another gutter in the leaster (which is considered a strike) How do we
get the plunger to let go of the ball. Your Plunger is
heading down the lane with the ball. We have a ball and a plunger in the
gutter. Which one do we do now, Granny Forward throw or the opposite hand???
The Ball and the plunger just went down the ally. What Excitement!
Everyone had a good
time and the food was great. There was a lot of laughter and shouting by all Winners as follows:
Scotch Doubles: Herb Grube and Judy Tate. |
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Dinner Cruise 4-26-08 |
Steak Fry 2-16-08 |
February 16, 2008
Valley Vettes Annual Steak Fry
In a short break between snow storms 42 of us gathered for another fun
Annual Steak Fry. Terry Lee put us in the right mood with neat racing theme
table decorations. Kudos to the Benders and Janos’s for getting us some of
the best steaks available, and then charcoal grilling them to perfection!
The steaks were superb guys. As usual, the assortment of tasty appetizers
and desserts club members supplied were the perfect start and end to the
meal. Gary Brandt made sure no one went thirsty of course. The Tates
recruited daughter Erin to help them cap the event with a music trivia game.
Table 7 assisted by Dick Rank’s and my memory for songs from the late 50’s
and early 60’s and a lucky guess on the release date of the tie breaker song
edged out the competition. Being lost in the 50’s and 60’s for a short while
was a lot of fun. Everyone helped break down the tables and chairs at the
end, give the floor a pass with the sweeper, and pack club stuff away till
our next event. Marty noted that we always cap our year end with a great
Christmas party and kick off the New Year with a great steak fry, and he is
so right. With such a great start, our 2008 event year will only get better.
Ivan |
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2007 |
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Super Bowl Party |
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November
30, 2007
New London Veteran’s Parade
With extremely short notice, eight Valley Vettes members
brought their cars to
New London
to participate in a Parade honoring our Military Veterans. Caydoe Lamphar,
an Air Force Veteran of
4 tours in Iraq, contacted us via our WEB site and asked if there
was any possibility of adding a few of our cars to the parade with each
taking one of the nearly 100 Vets from the Fox Valley
participating, as a
passenger. We all met by the Chamber of Commerce on Cook Street, kept our
engines running, put our tops down and each transported one Veteran in a
fantastic parade down the main street of New London in front of a standing
room only crowd. Caydoe rode with me and made the comment as we were
driving that it
was so fitting that “a line of Vettes transported a group of Vets in a
parade honoring the commitment these folks make for
our country”. Oh, and the
temperature at the time was 15o F.
I sincerely would like to thank the families of Tom Alberts, Steve Bender,
Randy McCarry, Rob McCarry, Craig McCarry, Joe Quaintance and Dick Rank
for taking their cars out on such short notice and in such harsh
conditions. At least the roads were dry and the sky was full of stars.
Just one more reason for my being a member of this classy organization.
Thank You,
Marty
Garofalo |
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Fall
Color Cruise |
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Funkana
2007
Click
here to play video |
Funfest 2007
Click here to play video |
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Fun clips from your fellow members as they
Cruise to the Rockies
( Click on each photo to
play the slide show ) |
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Day One
Four for the Road |
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Day
Two
Mitchell to Custer |
Day
Three
The Hansens' Catch Up |
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Day Four
Yellowstone |
Day
Five
Driggs, UT to Vernal, UT |
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Day
Six
Vernal, UT, Breckenridge, CO |
Day Seven
Vettes on the Rockies |
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Day Eight
Hangin' Out |
Day
Nine
Breckenridge, CO
to Kansas City, KA |
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Day Ten
Kansas City |
Day Eleven
The Road Home... |
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August 18
EVS Car
Show
- Random
Lake, WI
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August
9th
Club
meeting at Jennerjohn Park
The
food was great and the company
outstanding. This little park in Greenville
sprung to life with a wide Varity of corvettes. There were cars from
every generation in attendance not to mention several generations of
owners too! |
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August 5,6
Wisconsin
Rapids Car Show
Our annual cruise to Wisconsin
Rapid car show and cruise was again hosted by Sue Meyer and Frank
Seis. Sue led a group of 10 Valley Vettes and 10 Fox Vettes from
Appleton to the “Crossing” restaurant by Waupaca where we all
enjoyed a great lunch. Frank and Marge then led the group to Wisconsin
Rapids. After checking in at the “Sleep Inn Motel” and a short rest
we met outside the motel to leave for the high school for the cruise.
The area residents line the streets and wave; the children
especially liked the candy that some cruisers threw to them. After the
cruise the Valley Vettes members went to the “Branding Iron “for
dinner. Then back to the motel for some great socializing in the pool
and spa. Sunday after breakfast it off to the car show, what a cordial
welcome they (Corvettes of the North) extend to us every year. This year
we had two winners, Gary Brandt and Jerry Altenhofen, both went home
with trophies.
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Balloon Glow
Burger
Fest
August 3, 2007
Seymour
High School |
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Valley Vette Hackers
(Click the photo to play the video) |
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July Club Meeting/Picnic |
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| Fish Winery Cruise |
Fish Winery Cruise |
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| Flag Day Parade |
Flag Day Parade |
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Flag Day Parade |
Drivers Meeting |
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4 Seasons Cruise June 24 |
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Rawhide Fish Fry |
RawhideFish Fry |
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Rawhide Fish Fry |
Rawhide Fish Fry |
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May 12-13
Cruise and Medieval Dinner
A caravan of 15 Corvettes departed the Kohl’s Parking Lot in
Neenah
around 9:30 AM for
Schuamburg,
IL. Our first stop was the Cottonpicker Restaurant in
Burlington
for a much
needed stop, lunch and some liquid refreshment. This phase of
the trip was mostly uneventful and
went through some pretty countryside.
Following lunch, the caravan departed for points South on
the more complex
part of the Journey. The route took us through such locations as
Paddock
Lake,
Silver
Lake,
Antioch
(where things got dicey), Fox
Lake,
Round
Lake,Wauconda,
Barrington
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Barrington Hills, Inverness and finally
Schaumburg
. A few cars were temporarily lost in
Barrington, but thanks to walkie talkies and cell phones, we were able to help the
wayward cars
rejoin the caravan. Everyone made it to the County Inn within
10 minutes of the first arrival.
The group then unpacked, unwound and
enjoyed a happy hour before dinner. Next came the trip
to Medieval Times
and the dinner. There aren’t words to describe it, you just had to be
there.
Suffice it to say, the group learned a new appreciation for eating
utensils. After a nearly 3 hour
show, we all returned to the Hotel for a
little more partying and then to never never land.
The hotel provided a
complimentary breakfast buffet that was fabulous and then the group headed
home and other points on the map. Some even found time to visit Woodfield
Mall.
They may still be there!! This would really be a cruise worth
repeating.
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February
10th
Annual
Steak Fry
Valley Vettes held their Annual Steak Fry on Saturday,
February 10th at the Whiting Boat
House in
Neenah
. Forty-five hungry steak
lovers gathered to enjoy their steaks and a good time with friends.
Steaks were cooked to perfection by Rick Janos, David Lerlie and Steve
Bender. Additional help was provided by Mike Janos and Mary Ellen
Lerlie. The only complaints were that people ate too much. Thanks to
everyone who supplied the delicious hors d’ oeuvres and desserts
.
Greg and Judy Tate entertained everyone after dinner with a look back on
commercials from the past that had catchy slogans many could remember
or relate to. Thanks to Greg and Judy Tate for an amusing time and a
trip down memory lane.
Submitted by Sandy Bender
(Editor’s Note: Please give our hosts a nice hand for a job very well
done. I
for one had a very good time with our large Corvette Family and look
forward
to attending again next year.) |
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February 9th
Affair of the Heart Dance &
Raffle to Benefit Spina Bifida
14 club members showed up for the Fish Fry at the Darboy Club.
Everyone seemed
to get their fill. We meet up with more members who could not make
the fish fry beforehand.
Again a big thanks goes out to Russ Borchart for selling $300.00 worth of
tickets and the donations from Menasha Corp. Frank and Marge Seis for
selling $ 75.00 worth of tickets. Herg
Grube for ticket sales and 9 gift certificates. Rank
family for 14 gift certificates, a couple of door prizes and $ 435.00 in
Donations. Valley Vettes for
$300.00 donation.
Several club members went home with door prizes and Frank sold a winning
ticket
December 16, 2006 Christmas Party:
The Club Christmas dinner was well attended
with 25 couples, raising over $300 for Salvation Army through the silent
auction, on top of a full truck of Toys for Tots. Sue
at the Wave did a super job for us again this year, and the decorations
and food the Wave delivered were outstanding. The second annual dessert
exchange was popular with all the dessert makers taking home a new dessert
to sample and the recipe for their new dessert. To help whoever leads this
event next year, we have reserved a room at the Wave for Saturday,
December 15 2007. Russ
again came up with a winning ticket this year worth $100.00.
The total amount that Valley Vettes members and families were able to
raise for
Spina Bifida was $75.00 in merchandise, $190.00 in gift certificates,
$1130.00
in cash donations and ticket sales for a total of around $1,400.00.
Thank you, Dick & Carol
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| 2006 |
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Bell Ringers |
More Bell Ringers |
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Rawhide
with WLUK |
Trip To Door County |
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Trip To Door County |
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Oshkosh Parade |
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| 2005 |
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Bergstrom Car
Show |
Brunch at Green Lake
Convention Center |
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| Krazy Bowling |
Super Bowl Party |
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| 2004 |
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Timber
Rattlers |
"Conquers of the Dragon" |
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"Regrouping" |
"Devals Gap - 318 Curves in 11 miles" |
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Mackinac Vett Car Show |
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| 2003 |
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Pierce Park Car Show
Click
here for video |
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| 2002 |
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Trip Around The
Lake |
Trip Around The
Lake |
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Steak Fry |
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| 2001 |
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Flag Day Parade |
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