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January 25, 2023
John Markel (93) has moved. As we all do, John has found the life becomes more difficult as we age. Keeping a large home is one of those problems. John has moved to the Congregational Home in Brookfield. His mail is sent to his daughter's home. His son James, says John is in good physical shape, but has become a little forgetful. Give John a call on his cell phone.
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March 25, 2022
Jeff and Kathy Clark are Grand Parents. They just welcomed their first grand daughter to the workd! Nora Mae weighted in at 7 lbs 14 ozs and 20 inches long. All are doing fine, including the new grand parents.
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January 26, 2022
Tod and Sharon Wirth are Grand Parents. Their daughter, Stacy had a baby girl 1/26/2022, at 10:41 am. 7 lbs 11 oz. Her name is Adalyn Rose
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February 8, 2020
Evelyn J. Beaupre, 80, of the town of Wayne, passed away on Thursday, February 6, 2020. Evelyn was born on June 7, 1939, in Crivitz, the daughter of the late Kale and Francis (nee Garzynski) Van. Evelyn was united in marriage to Gary Beaupre. She was deeply loved by her husband, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. A Mass of Christian burial for Evelyn will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 11, 2020 at St. Michael Catholic Church, 8883 Forest View Road, Kewaskum with Rev. Jacob Strand officiating. Evelyn's family will greet relatives and friends at the church on Tuesday from 1:00 p.m. until the time of Mass.
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August 25, 2016
Calling all Members! It is time once again to hold elections for our 2017 Board! Those of us that are Officers are on the hook for another year yet, but the rest of the board seats are again up for grabs. Please forward any nominations you have to me. I can be reached by phone, email, snail mail, Morse code (kidding), smoke signals (if they're legible) and even sky writing if you alert me beforehand to look skyward! Thank you in advance for your participation.
Sharon Venski
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Sharon Venski --- Interim President 2016-17
May 10, 2016
It is with a heavy heart that I inform our membership that Dave Hjortnaes has stepped down as President of our club, citing medical issues. Dave, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family as you work through this challenging time. With that said, I have now stepped into the office of President, and hope I am up to the challenge! The Vice President seat has been vacated for the time being and as a Board, we will evaluate our options for filling this vacancy mid-term, then communicate out to you the path we choose. I invite all of you to join our board meeting on Tuesday, June 7th, where we will discuss more fully our options. We are always open to the thoughts and concerns of our members!
Sharon Venski
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Dave Hjortnaes --- Club President 2016-17
February 2016
That settles it folks, the ground hog came out on a cloudy day right before the blizzard arrived and announced that spring was coming early. That means it is almost time to open up your garage, wipe out the cobwebs, get rid of the dust and ask your car if she is ready to roll. The least you can do is put in the key and give her a crank for the start of the new year of touring. And if she is a bit sluggish, call out for the Coach House crew to stop on over and get your car in top notch condition for a fun year of Model T events.
Now that I have your mind thinking about driving your Model T, take a moment with pen and paper and jot down a short note about where you might like to tour this year. Sharon is already working on the Spring Tour taking place on May21st. We can help you with planning a formal tour or an informal tour, All we need is a starting point, starting time and a destination. Maybe it is just a small park you saw driving down the road and we can plan on a picnic lunch at the park. Maybe it is a destination like the Octagon House in Watertown with a few neat little stops on the way there and another on the way home. That nice little shop you never saw as you whizzed by in modern iron, or a quilt on the side of a barn. You never know what you might see in a leisurely drive in a Model T.
Don't forget we have 3 more brunches coming up this year. St Francis Brewery in February. The Chancery in Mequon in March. Olive Garden in Greenfield in April. I expect I might even see a T in the parking lot at the Olive Garden. Also the big BINGO party at Mark & Marge's on March 6th. I hear they have quite a party on the dance floor in their music room. See you there.
We also have a chance to be in 2 parades in one day. Heritage Days Parade and GermanFest are on Saturday July 30th. How many cars can we get to represent the Club and give a Veteran a ride? Think how much more this might mean to a Veteran!
Dave
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Dave Hjortnaes --- Club President 2016-17
January 2016
This week we say goodbye to 2015 and welcome 2016. I hope that Santa brought you what you asked for although I have not heard of any new Model T's under the tree. Maybe we have to wait for the Easter Bunny to bring them after the snow melts. My Touring is not new, but it is running so I hope to be able to bring it to one of the many outings planned for this year. If your car is not running correctly let us know and we will try to come over to get you on the road. I would like this to be a good year for everybody.
We start out next week with the second of our Sunday Brunches. It will be at Mo's on Hwy 100 and Bluemound on January 10th. Hope to see you there. Our third Brunch will again be on the south side at the St Francis Brewery on February 21th. The fourth Brunch will be in March and it will be on the north side of Milwaukee. This gives us a chance to meet everyone over the winter and discuss possible locations for touring this coming summer. If you cannot make a Brunch, perhaps you can join us at a Board Meeting. We would love to have your input.
Our first two activities this year are the Model T University with the Dairyland Club on January 16th, and the play "Steel Magnolia's at the Sunset Playhouse on January 31th. February 28th is the Model A Swap Meet in West Bend. Then March comes in with a bang --- Bingo at the Kranz's on the 6th. Always a lot of fun there. Don't forget that March 14th is PI(e) day, 3.14. I don't know if that means I should practice up on my math skills or purchase a treat at Baker;s Square.
If you have any requests or suggestions on where you might like to drive, do not hesitate to call or write one of the Board Members. We are always open to new ideas. Tell us where you would like to tour your 'T', or just hang out in your front yard with the T's parked all around.
Dave
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Audrey Luedke --- Pasted away January 9, 2015
TUCSON, AZ - Audrey M. Luedke passed away from a stroke on Jan. 9, 2015. She is now absent from the body but present with the Lord. Audrey was born in Racine, Wis., to Garrett and Magdalene (Heusdens) Veenstra. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Marlan (Jim) Luedke, both parents and brothers Charles and Garrett (Bud) Veenstra, and son-in-law Tom Gruehn. Audrey is survived by daughters Sandra (Larry) Governatori, Barbara (Harrison) Heublein, Marlene Gruehn and Maureen (Frank) Ciezki, 10 grandchildren and 13 great- grandchildren and sister-in-law Helen (Charles) Veenstra. Audrey was a Christian and loved the Lord. She donated her body to science which will be a blessing to many. A Memorial service was held in Benson, Az. Published in Racine Journal Times on Jan. 16, 2015
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Dave Hjortnaes --- Club President 2016-17
Another year has gone by and the President's Dinner is over. I would like to thank Mark Paulson and his wife Denise for putting together a very enjoyable dinner which included entertainment and prizes to end the summer and fall seasons. Many thanks to all of you who participated and/or put together the many outings, parades, and meetings this past year. Thank you.
For those of you that do not know me. I am 60 years old and have been married to my lovely wife, Heather for 24+ years. We will be celebrating our 25th anniversary in March. We have two children, Nils and Maren, who are attending UW-Madison. I wonder if having a Speedster with Bucky Badger all over it had something to do with that. We have 2 working Model T's and 1/2 of another one in the garage. It has been a joy getting to know and work with members of the club, and I hope to meet more of you this next year.
However, the year is not over with. In the past we have tried a couple of Sunday brunches through the winter. December's brunch will be at the new Water Street Brewery in Oak Creek. We hope to have a monthly brunch spread out around the Milwaukee area so members on the south side, west side, and north side can attend without having to drive a long way. The January brunch will be January 10th. We hope to see you then.
Dave
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Anita C. Renner (June 15, 2015)
The Greater Milwaukee Model T Ford Club sadly announces the passing of a founding member and friend; Anita Renner.
Renner, Anita C. Longtime Wauwatosa resident, joined her husband Robert on June 15, 2015 at the age of 92. Loving mother of Judy Malone, Tom (Sue) Renner, Cathy Renner and Nancy (Chris) Schwartz. Further survived by 7 grandchildren, other relatives and friends. A Memorial Service will be held later this summer.
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Dale Pauley (March 2, 1932 - December 6, 2014)
Dale Pauley, 82, of Kenosha, passed away peacefully, Saturday, December 6, 2014 at Brookside Care Center.
Dale was born on March 2, 1932 to the late Dail and Myrtle (Chapman) Pauley in Cincinnati, Iowa.
Dale is survived by his sons David (Harriett) Pauley of Mesa, AZ and Lance (Paula) Pauley of Mount Pleasant, his grandchildren David (Breann) Pauley Jr., Keith Pauley, Robbie Pauley, Melissa (John Schneider) Pauley, his great grandchildren Caitlyn and Evan Pauley and his sister Shirley Stern of MI.
A Celebration of Life will be held next year in July. The family requests memorials to Hospice Alliance or to the Brookside Activity Department instead of flowers.
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President's Message for April 2014
Hello all again… Hope this letter finds everyone in good health and spirits.
First I would like to start out with a couple of Model T events that Denise and I have attended in the past several months. Our first event, that I recall, was a get together at Tazino’s for lunch, which also included a raffle, mug shots being taken, and just plain fun. We really couldn’t pass that one up since it’s only 10 minutes from our home. We were so happy that we did. It was great to see a wonderful turn-out and just hanging out with everyone again. I hadn’t been to any events for a while and realized what I was missing. The other events that we attended were the ‘Swing into Spring’ event where we all got to let our moovin’ do the groovin’ ; the Sunset play house, where we enjoyed a wonderful production of “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoats”; and finally, the Tipsy tour… all of which concluded with what else, but food! These are things we would have not thought of doing on our own.. ok maybe the drinking tour.. lol. Anyway I would like to encourage everyone to try to make it to 1 or 2 events this year. Even if it’s a matter of needing a ride we can work something out to pick you up. I don’t know about you guys, but spring and summer might just be skipping us by, at the rate the weather is going around here. Let’s hope not…we need to get our cars out!!!
Now to continue my story from the first letter I wrote in January 2014 about my first time driving… Well If I remember correctly, Kevin Esser introduced me to Tim Kirst; from there Tim gathered up Erv & Maynard and stopped over to try to get my Model T Coupe running that had been sitting for many years. I forget what the ratio was for how many years it has been sitting to how long it would take them to get it started.. and, of course, they got it running in less time than I anticipated. From that point, Tim took me to a parking lot and showed me the ins and outs of driving this thing… all I can remember was “ What the heck am I doing!” After a couple of times around the block, I thought, gee, this thing isn’t that bad. Well, then the big drive on the road…. Kent Sumner put together a car show at the YMCA in Cudahy and Tim talked me into bringing my coupe up there; of course I would .. I am an expert driver.. right? NOOOO… or I didn’t realize it at that moment. Tim showed up and followed me there.. He told me to take my time and not to rush to get there. Well, I was used to going 45 on Howell which is the speed limit… then the light turned yellow! I did everything I could to stop the car… but it wouldn’t! I made a SHARP right turn and filled my pants (hypothetically).. haha, made a u turn and came back to Howell to see Tim with a big smile on his face and said, “ I told you the brakes are not the same as a normal car…” Needless to say.. I went 20 the rest of the day but made it there and back home safe... I am sure there are some good stories out there from everyone’s first time driving.. Please share… Watch the newsletter for up and coming events and try to make some… hope to meet everyone in our club.
Mark and Denise Paulson
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President's Message for January 2014
Greetings
I would like to start out by introducing myself. My name is Mark Paulson; I am married to Denise; together we have six children. Here is my story on how I was introduced to Model T’s.
I was in my 20’s when I discovered three “old looking” buggies, with wheels, in my friend’s father’s garage…only to find out that they were actually vehicles. Imagine that. After questioning my friend’s father, I learned that there was such a vehicle called a Model T. He explained that they were all Model T Coupes. At that point in time, I told him that if he was ever looking to get rid of them, I would love to own one….never thinking he would ever let go of them…or that I would someday own one. Years had passed, when I stopped by my friend’s house and discovered that he had one of the Model T’s in his garage. I asked if he had purchased one from his dad or if he had been given one, only to hear that his dad was storing it there. I inquired again about the possibility of purchasing the vehicle, and to my surprise, he was willing to depart with one of his Coupes. I purchased a 1923 Doctor Coupe…my very first Model T! Since my purchase, I was introduced to several other Model T owners and the Model T Club.
I have been learning a lot about the history of the Model T’s along the way. My first driving experience will be in the next newsletter…hold on tight!!! I am looking forward to an exciting year of events and can’t wait until this Wisconsin weather cooperates and we can bring the cars back out!!!
Happy New year…hope all is well.
Mark and Denise Paulson
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President's Message for November 2013
Hi fellow T 'ers
Amazingly, my two year term as Club President came to a close at the President’s Dinner, held on November 2nd at Thunder Bay Restaurant. We had 48 attendees this year at the dinner and I believe everyone enjoyed the food, entertainment and friendship of the evening. As for the Presidency, it was a very fast, exciting and rewarding experience for me. Many thanks to all the Club Members who participated and especially those who take the lead and head Club events such as seminars, parades, tours, overnighters, picnics, Coachhouses, and various other activities. It is you people that make the Club so vibrant. Next I would like to wish the best of luck to the new 2014-15 Board of Directors and congratulate Mark Paulsen, as the newly elected Club President. I hope Mark will enjoy his tenure as much as I enjoyed mine.
Again, thanks to all the Club members who pitched in over the last year in the rebuilding of my Model T engine and transmission. What a learning experience for me and hopefully, for the others involved.
Now that the 2013 T driving season has pretty much come to an end, it is sadly time to prepare them for winter storage. Most cars need some basic care to protect our treasured investments. Make sure radiator and cooling systems have the proper ratio of antifreeze or are drained to prevent engine damage. The fuel systems should be shut off. Car batteries should be pulled or tendered to ensure they remain charged. Cover cars with dust covers and unless you drive them all winter, should be jacked up to relieve pressure on the tires. Take precautions to prevent rodents from entering and nesting and causing winter damage.
Until the next Club event, I wish everyone good health, Happy Holidays and God Bless.
Jim
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President's Message for September 2013
Hi fellow T 'ers
As our summer winds down, so have many of our scheduled events for the summer. August was a very active month with the Gimmick Rally, Richfield Historical Event, Michigan Jamboree, Masterpiece Car Show and Wings Over Waukesha.
September kicks off with the Pauley Picnic and which will have already occurred by the time this prints. But there’s still plenty of T driving time left and club events scheduled with or without your Model T. First, the Richfield Thresheree is scheduled for September 21st. The Jefferson Swap Meet is September 27th through 29th. Club member Mike Schmidt’s Schmidt Brothers Car Show will be held on September 28th.
October brings the South Shore YMCA Car Show and the anticipated overnighter on October 12th and 13th to the Cave of the Mounds area.
Then the President’s Dinner is on November 2nd at the Thunder Bay Restaurant again. Please refer to the flyer in this newsletter for details and get your responses in early.
Also, a special reminder to send in your club dues which were due September 1 to Todd Wirth and Board Member Nominations to Sharon Venski by September 15th for consideration at the elections in October.
I look forward to seeing each and every club member at one or more of the upcoming events and wish you all safe driving and good health.
Jim
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President's Message for July 2013
Hi fellow T 'ers
A lot is happening this time of the year and I hope you are taking advantage of some of the many Model T Club related events occurring in July. There is the Independence Day Parade at Alcott Park or the Bay View Parade on July 4th. Next will be the South Shore Parade on July 13th followed by our display at Germanfest on Milwaukee’s Lake Front on July 27th. Please be sure to check the newsletter for other events not listed here.
We’d also love to see you at the picnic scheduled for September 8th or the overnighter which will probably be scheduled sometime in October. And don’t forget the Coach House repair session at Mike Z’s garage on July 10th. The Coach House is a great place to get minor repairs fixed or troubleshoot bigger problems with other members who are always willing to share their knowledge and expertise while lending a helping hand. Let’s get those cars out of the garage and on the road!
I would once again like to thank all the many Club members who take time from their busy schedules to host or lead an event. Your involvement, commitment and efforts are most appreciated and what makes this Club so special!
Jim
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President's Message for April 2013
Hi fellow T 'ers
The third consecutive “Ice Trials” racing event was held on Sunday, February 24th on Pewaukee Lake in front of Sports Dock Bar and Grill in Pewaukee. It was very well attended by many members, spouses, friends and family. The weather and ice track conditions were both spectacular. High 30’s and thick ice and snow covered track made for some good time and lots of fun. We had some exceptional driving by young and old alike. Bob Clark took honors this year driving the expanded course in the fastest time. Our fastest younger driver was Tommy Nogalski.
Many thanks to Gina Sweitzer, owner of Sports Dock, for donations of wine and great hospitality, warmth and food.
A special thanks to Maynard Knudson for providing his polo car for racing, Tod Wirth for his mechanical support, Bob Wirth for the pylons for marking the course, and Frank Daily for the emergency fan belt. Thanks also to John Meinholz and Kevin Helinski for providing their T’s and giving rides to guests on the lake ice.
We had over 25 drivers take part in this year’s racing event, many who were first time T drivers and very happy to get a chance to speed on ice with the polo car. Where else could somebody experience this unique opportunity…only in the Greater Milwaukee Model T Club.
Don’t forget to attend a future “Coach House” repair session where minor projects are taken on and there are others to bounce a problem off and provide help. Think warmer weather and get those T’s ready for spring driving.
Hope to see everyone at the March Madness Brunch.
Have a Great St. Patrick’s Day!
Jim
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UPDATE
Tim's Mother, Ellen Kirst, will be shown at the Prasser Kleczka Funeral Home in Bay View on Thursday February 21st.
Visitation 4:00 - 8:00 PM
Services at 7:00 PM
Prasser Kleczka Funeral Home
3275 South Howell Avenue
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53207
(414) 483-2322
It is with sadness that we hear of the passing of Tim Kirst's Mother on Sunday February 17 at the age of 89. Mrs Kirst had been in hospice care for the past week, and passed in the early afternoon with her loving family at her side. Please keep Tim and his family both in your thoughts and in your prayers.
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President's Message for January 2013
Hi fellow T 'ers
The Holidays have now past, so best wishes for a healthy and prosperous New Year to all. I hope everyone who reads this message will be able to attend some of this year’s Model T Events.
We have already scheduled some 2013 Events, so mark your calendar and participate! First up in January, is the “Coach House” on January 19th, at Tod Wirth’s garage, where Babbitting Main Bearings will take place. It’s a very interesting topic so hope to see you there and bring a friend. Next up, is the January 27th, Sunset Playhouse Play, “Lumberjacks in Love” and then the February 24th ,” Ice Trials Racing”, on Pewaukee Lake. Please refer to the Newsletter for more details for these and other anticipated future events.
January is also a great time to bolster our Clubs’ newsletter advertising and extra Club revenue. If anyone knows of potential clients, please contact them or let us know so we can follow up and get them in the newsletter. Also, try to patronize these businesses whenever possible.
Our new club name tags have been designed. We are taking orders for them from members and their spouses only $5.00 each. After the initial group order is placed, any future orders will have to be made by the individual member themselves. So now is the time to get your order in. It is a great way to promote the Club and be recognized in public. Check out the special ad in this month’s newsletter for details.
All members are reminded that all are invited to the monthly Board Meetings where your input is welcomed. Bye for now,
Jim
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President's Message for November 2012
Hi fellow T 'ers
The Holidays have now past, so best wishes for a healthy and prosperous New Year to all. I hope everyone who reads this message will be able to attend some of this year’s Model T Events.
We have already scheduled some 2013 Events, so mark your calendar and participate! First up in January, is the “Coach House” on January 19th, at Tod Wirth’s garage, where Babbitting Main Bearings will take place. It’s a very interesting topic so hopte to see you there and bring a friend. Next up, is the January 27th, Sunset Playhouse Play, “Lumberjacks in Love” and then the February 24th ,” Ice Trials Racing”, on Pewaukee Lake. Please refer to the Newsletter for more details for these and other anticipated future events.
January is also a great time to bolster our Clubs’ newsletter advertising and extra Club revenue. If anyone knows of potential clients, please contact them or let us know so we can follow up and get them in the newsletter. Also, try to patronize these businesses whenever possible.
Our new club name tags have been designed. We are taking orders for them from members and their spouses only $5.00 each. After the initial group order is placed, any future orders will have to be made by the individual member themselves. So now is the time to get your order in. It is a great way to promote the Club and be recognized in public. Check out the special ad in this month’s newsletter for details.
All members are reminded that all are invited to the monthly Board Meetings where your input is welcomed.
Bye for now,
Jim
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President's Message for November 2012
Hi fellow T 'ers
Well, our 2012 T driving season has come to an end, which also marks my first year as President of the Club. Might I say, it has been a very exciting and very rewarding time for me personally. The Club itself has had many special and unique events and activities, spread throughout this past year for our members to gather , drive our cars and enjoy each others’ company.
The President’s Dinner on November 3rd at Thunder Bay Restaurant was once again an event for our Club to recognize those members who have taken extra effort and roles to make the Greater Milwaukee Model T the fine, energetic and helpful Club that it is. On that date, 34 members, spouses and friends joined together for a wonderful fun time. The delicious buffet food, rich dessert, the cozy room accommodations at Thunder Bay and the great service made it most enjoyable.
The Club was pleasantly entertained with some very talented, spirited and animated singers from the “Waukesha Civic Broadway Singers”. The 16 members were extremely lively and got our group toe tapping and singing along to the many show tones and popular songs of old. All and all, it was very special evening.
In attendance at the President’s Dinner were the following members and spouses and friends; Erv and Mickey Wilkowski, Ross and Gloria Arnold, Maynard and Carol Knutson, John and James Merkel, John and Marylou Gelfer, Tim and Michelle Kirst, Jim and Cheryl Oliva with their friends Mike and Linda Kuspa, Bob and Alice Wirth, Tod and Sharon Wirth, Ruth Wegener and Sharon Venski, Lance and Paula Pauley, Duane and Nita Nicholson, Mark and Marge Kranz, Kevin and Sandy Helinski, John and Tera Meinholz and one other couple….oh yea… straight from California, Frank and Nancy Daily.
Again, a special thank you to all the fellow Board Members this past year for all their time and commitment to the Club. As a reminder, be sure to keep in mind the periodic “Coachhouse” repair get togethers throughout the winter. Activities for 2013 are already shaping up and the play at the Elm Grove Sunset Playhouse will again be sponsored by Erv and Mickey in January. Watch for upcoming details.
Have a warm and blessed Thanksgiving Holiday.
Jim
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President's Message for October 2012
Hi fellow T 'ers
What a wonderful time of the year for participating in Club events and just driving your T around the breathtaking countryside absorbing all it’s beauty!
It’s been a very busy time for our T Club members recently. The Fall Overnight Tour to Manitowoc on September 22nd and 23rd was fantastic and extremely well planned out by our Vice-President, Sharon Venski. The weather also cooperated. Wow, that’s two in a row now, Sharon.
The Schmit Brothers Auto Dealership 100th Anniversary and Car Show in Saukville on Saturday, September 29th, was also a great event and well represented by our Club. There was warm weather, live music and lots of vintage and classic cars. Congratulations to Club Member Mike Schmit and his brother, Jim, who sponsored the charity event for Children’s Hospital, in honor of 100 years of the family business.
Then on October 6th, the YMCA Car Show was held. But it’s not too late to get that T out. On October 14th, the Pumpkin Run Brunch and Racine Car Show is coming up.
I’d like to take this opportunity to give special thanks to the club members and friends who helped me remove and install a new engine and transmission in my 1924 T Coupe which suffered engine damage after the July 4th parade. The car is now up and running needing only some less invasive fine tuning thanks to John Meinholz, Mike and Dan Zahorik, Tod Wirth, Lance Pauley and other friends. I couldn’t have done it without all of their valuable expertise and help. A big thank you also goes to Jim Nowak for the use of his trailer to haul the new engine back and forth on!! In addition to the great friends you make and the opportunities to share T’ing experiences and good times, this is just another example of why membership in our Club is so priceless!
Don’t forget to get your reservations in for the President’s Dinner to be held on November 3rd at Thunder Bay Restaurant in Pewaukee. Please get your reservations in as soon as possible for planning purposes. We’ll have live entertainment after dinner, the business meeting and I know you won’t want to miss this opportunity to wind up another season of T’ing with your friends. Hope to see you all there!
Jim
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Milwaukee Model T Ford Club member, Bill Hansen has suffered a heart attack on June 28th. Bill received triple bypass surgery July 3rd. Bill is recovering and is currently in good health and spirts. We all hope to hear more good news about Bill in the near future.
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Milwaukee Model T Ford Club member, Bill Magnus had a complete knee replacement on his right knee on June 5th. Bill is recovering and is hobbling with care.
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Milwaukee Model T Club members is Recognized. Mike Schmit of Schmit Brothers Ford is honored as 2012 Business Friends of Education. The award is presented by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction.
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Jerry Witt, a very active club member about 15 years ago and an excellent mechanic for Bernie Peck's vehicles has died. He was active in many charitable organizations, and was a promoter and participant of the annual Circus Parade. Jerry passed away after heart surgery in his new home town of Bakersfield California.
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President's Message for May 2012
Hi fellow T 'ers
Another busy month has past and a couple of Club get togethers of interest took place. On April 21st, approximately 20 members and Model T enthusiasts gathered for our “Spring Tune-up Seminar” at Ruth’s garage. Several cars arrived and were worked on and problems diagnosed. A number of coil boxes were checked and adjustments made to prepare them for use. Thank you to Ruth Wegener and Sharon Venski for hosting this seminar and providing a tasty lunch. Sharon’s bad luck for hosting an event with rain is officially over. It was a beautifully warm and dry day.
On April 26th, a Model T “Coach House” was conducted at member Lance Pauley’s garage in Mt. Pleasant. There, a few very knowledgeable members pitched in and helped rewire the electrical system of Lance’s 1925 Roadster T Pickup, which had been owned by his late Father-in-law, (his wife Paula’s Dad). The car started up and runs good, although the magneto needs some work to get a little more output. Good job to those in attendance and to those who provided their mechanical and electrical expertise, John Meinholz, Mike Zahorik, Dave Hjortnaes and Duane Nicholson.
By the way, did you hear the great news? The Old Car publication just announced its 2011/2012 new recipients of their “Golden Quill” Award. Our very own, extremely talented Planetary News Editor, Mike Zahorik, received yet another award for the Regional Compact Division. Our sincere congratulations to Mike and again a big thank you for all you do for our Club.
Please check the schedule of upcoming events. Two fast approaching get togethers are set for May. A brunch on May 20th and a short parade on Memorial Day in Rochester , Wisconsin, on May 28, 2012. Lastly, mark the date on your calendar for the Fall Overnighter, scheduled for September 22 and 23, 2012. More information will come out as it gets closer and plans are refined.
Hope to see you and your T soon at one the next events.
Jim
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President's Message for January 2012
I hope your Christmas and New Year’s Holidays were blessed and joyful. Now that the year 2011 has come to a close, the Model T Club is off and running for another year. Two popular events are scheduled in the near future and will help get us through our long Wisconsin winter. Try attending the play “Nunsense” at the Sunset Playhouse on January 29, 2012, and the “Ice Trials” on Pewaukee Lake on February 19, 2012. Both events are a fun time and great ways to stay in touch with other Model T’ers. Check out the Newsletter for details. Also, John Meinholz and Mike Zahorik graciously host Model T “Coach House” evenings in their respective garages, where members cars mechanical problems are diagnosed and repairs made. This is a good way to prepare the cars for the upcoming driving season.
The new Board of Directors has met and is eager and quite receptive to new ideas. They welcome input from all members and remind you that our meetings are open to all members and invite you to attend.
The Newsletter routinely prints a list of scheduled events projected for the entire calendar year. This is done to provide the maximum advanced notice to assist in scheduling and attending these various events. Take time to look and mark your calendars!!
Hope to see you all soon!!!
Jim
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President's Message for November 2011
On Saturday, November 12, 2011, we held our annual President's Dinner and Elections at Nardo's Restaurant in Germantown. If you missed it, you missed a very enjoyable meal and evening, socializing with other Model T'ers and friends. I am proud to say that I was elected as your new president for the 2012/2013 term. Let me begin my duties by taking this opportunity to formally thank outgoing two time, President, Bob Wirth for a tremendous job he has done over these last two years. It was amazing, his wealth of knowledge of T's and long tenure in the Club. His skills in speaking, leading and directing people when organizing and running meetings is evident. He led this Club during out special 50th Anniversary last year, 2010. How appropriate was that! Bob you are a real motivator and a great person. Thanks again.
I would also like to congratulate all new and old members to the new Board for the 2012/2013 term. I look forward to working with all of you, especially the newly elected Officers, Vice President Sharon Venski; Secretary Mike Zahorik; and Treasurer Tod Wirth. Sounds like a winning team to me.
A short note about myself for those who may not be quite as familiar with me. Besides being your Vice President for two years, I will tell you that I'm 62 years old and retired from the Milwaukee Police Department. I have been married to my supportive wife Cheryl for 40 years and have three grown children and eight grand children. The grandchildren have taken a special interest in the Model T and the Club especially in the last couple of years. We own a 1924 Ford Coupe, which I inherited from my father. He and I went to the junkyard in 1954 and it was the third junk vehicle on top of a stack. He paid a hefty $75 and it was not well received by mother, him paying so much for a "piece of junk" at that time.
I pledge to carry on the many great traditions and will try to foster as much participation from as many members and friends as I can over the next two years. I hope to see most of you at our many future upcoming events, outings and seminars. Let's keep it going!
Jim
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President Bob Wirth says Thank You
Next year Alice and I will enjoy our first Model T drive in 2012, just as we enjoyed out very first drive in a Model T fifty years ago. The car that changed the world in the early part of the 20th century has also enriched our lives because it was the vehicle that helped us meet many great people over all those years that also enjoy Model T Fords. We have been very fortunate to be (and are) involved in many other car clubs over the past fifty years that support and celebrate a variety of automobile makes. Each club has its own personality, but no other clubs have the special feeling of family that our Model T Club enjoys. The Model T Ford was envisioned to be a car that anyone could buy. That concept seems to have developed a feeling in our Club of being all inclusive, everyone is welcomed to participate and enjoy. This feeling of family has existed over the past fifty years and I know it will continue into 2012 and beyond.
I have very much appreciated the support of all of you club members and board members over the past two years. Creating and producing all the elements of our Clubs 50th Anniversary Extravaganza was only possible because of your support and participation. I especially want to thank our retiring Board Members, Frank Daily and Kent Sumner for their continuing support of our clubs activities.
Participation is always the key to your enjoyment. When you participate in club activities you help make the efforts put forth by the event organizers much more worthwhile. You gain much more out of your participation than you put into you involvement. Your enjoyment of our car hobby promotes more involvement. It is a win, win situation. Support our new Club Officers and event chairmen. Participate and we are all winners.
Best wishes for a happy holiday season to all of you. We look forward to joining you at the next event.
Bob
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President's Message for October 2011
Our clubs annual overnighter on Sept. 17/18, 2011 included a tour to view twenty of the twenty one barns in Racine county that were selected to display an eight foot by eight foot painted quilt design. Each design is different based on standard quilt patterns. Interestingly, the quilt pattern on the first barn was entitled “Wild Goose Chase”. The great route that Sharon Venski planned to allow us to view 20 barns was certainly not a wild goose chase. We drove on many great Wisconsin roads and traveled approximately 150 miles during the two days. There is a detailed selection process for the barns that will display a quilt pattern and the quilt pattern itself. Volunteer groups, supported by sponsors, paint the quilts on plywood panels that are then attached to the barns. Our tour included stops at several barns and a short visit with the owners of the barn. Sharon arranged for us to stay at the very plush suites of the Candlewood Suites in Kenosha. Sharon and Dan took advantage of the hotels outdoor patio grills to prepare a great supper with all the “fixings”. Our sincere thanks to Sharon, with Dan?s assistance, for all the effort they put in to create a very memorable overnighter.
By the time you read this article, you will have received ballots for the election of board members for 2012. The future strength of our club rests with your considered votes to select those members you feel will continue the fifty plus years of traditions of our club. I encourage you to take a few moments and vote. Your vote counts!
On Saturday November 12, 2011, our Annual Presidents Dinner will include electrons for our club officers for the next two years. I certainly hope that many of you will join us to participate in this evening of elections and club socializing. A former active Great Milwaukee Model T Ford Club member, Audrey Luedke, donated to the club, seven very nicely done scrap books covering the years 1974 through 1980. We will have these scrap books at the Presidents Dinner for your perusal. The entertainment provided by our elections will be supplemented by some entertainment that will be of interest to all Model T Ford fans. We also will determine during the evening who will obtain a new very nice Model T Ford car cover, donated to the club by a former club member, Willard Klein. We look forward to seeing you all there on November 12, 2011.
The strength of any club, as it is with our club is the active participation and enthusiasm of club members. In 2011 we enjoyed many activities and events that were the result of the efforts of event chairmen. I personally want to thank each of you that volunteered your time and talents to conceptualize, organize and then lead the participants during the activity/event. Your efforts are very much appreciated! Those of you that have participated in events also need to be recognized for your efforts. A good turnout by participants always impacts the event chairmen in that the chairmen knows that the efforts have been appreciated. Participation promotes participation.
Bob
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President's Message for September 2011
We enjoyed an absolutely beautiful sunny warm day as we toured to Port Washington on Saturday, August 28, 2011. We visited a winery, enjoyed some of their wine with our lunches and then visited the 1860 lighthouse high on a hill, overlooking the harbor in Port Washington. Our clubs sincere thanks goes to Marge and Mark Kranz for doing a great job in organizing this tour.
Our summer touring season is rapidly coming to a close, however, we still have time to enjoy our T's out in the open air. We have our clubs overnight tour, planned for September 17 & 18, 2011. By the time you read this article the overnighter will be only a few days away. Contact Sharon Venski at (414) 915-8679 to get any last minute information on how you could join us. Kent Sumner has organized his annual South Shore YMCA Car Show on Saturday October 1, 2011. This has become a very large car show. Call Kent at (414) 546-1505 for details on this event. There is a possibility that the "Pickers Tour" that was scheduled in June and then cancelled, maybe run in October. Watch for details. In addition to these events there is still time for someone to organize an impromptu tour to enjoy our beautiful Wisconsin country side in the fall. Think about it.
We have many talented people in this club that really should become more involved in our various club activities and policies. I would encourage each of you to participate in the nomination process for the 2012 Board Members before September 15, 2011 and then to accept a nomination when approached. Call Mickey Wilkowski at (262) 784-5614 with the name of a person (or persons) that you would like to see on the 2012 Board of Directors.
Dues are due on September 1, 2011. If you have already sent in your dues, the club thanks you, if you have not sent them in please fill out the membership information form and send it along with your dues to the club treasurer, Tod Wirth, promptly. We really need this membership form from each member to be sure our 2012 membership roster is correct and complete. Thanks for your help.
Bob
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President's Message for August 2011
The Model T Ford Club International Tour in Rochester Mn. in July was in many ways the most memorable national tour we have ever participated in. Alice and I had the very special experience of touring for that week with Tod and Sharon along with our two granddaughters, Stacy and Kristie, and Kristie's boy friend Travis. These tours have become very special family events. We also enjoyed time with Bill and Nancy Hansen and many other Model T Tour friends that we only have a chance to see once a year. Next years tour is in Vermont. We hope to attend.
Of the six days of touring, four days were very, very hot and humid. The first four days were 100° ± with the humidity setting record highs for the Rochester area. On Wed, July 20, with the temperature predicted to reach over 100° (it did), we decided that "discretion was the better part of valour", so we elected to drive that days tour in our air conditioned van. Our Model T's were running amazingly cool, the drivers and passengers were overheating. Many other tour members drove modern iron on that day.
In mid morning we were among the first cars to come over a small hill and see an accident that had just happened. Stacy Wirth is now registered nurse, so she was the first medical person on the accident scene. Within minutes several other tour members, who were nurses arrived at the site. Minutes later a tour member who was a doctor arrived at the accident site. Two local EMS units arrived very quickly along with the flight for life helicopter from Mayo Clinic. The 1915 Model T Touring that Ken Meeks was driving along with his wife Marge, as a passenger, for some reason threw the tire off the left front wheel rim. Ken lost control of the car and it apparently flipped two times ending up on its wheels. It is unclear of what else happened to have him lose control. (I have thrown a tire off a front wheel while cruising along a highway with no loss of control in my 1914 touring.) No one will ever be sure of what exactly happened to cause this tragedy. Marge is recovering from her injuries. Ken died of his injuries about a week later.
What we should all re-learn from this tragedy is that before we enjoy a drive in our Model T's, we must be sure that our Model T is in good, sound mechanical condition (use the MTFCI Safety Checklist). Do all the required and common sense maintenance and then as we enjoy the drive, we must drive with extreme care and vigilance. It is not possible to know if speed had anything to do with this accident. The joy of driving a Model T is the drive, not how quick you can get from point A to point B.
The Model T Ford Club International provides the Jimmy Walker Award to any young person not over 21 years of age with a valid drivers license that drives one half the mileage for any one day tour of the weeks scheduled tours. Dave Hjortnaes and his son Nils, participated in the National Tour in Rochester. Nils drove more than one half day and his efforts earned him the Jimmy Walker award. Congratulations to Nils. The MTFCI has a very active youth program that will provide the continuing interest to help keep our Model T's on the road.
I would encourage each of you to participate in the nomination process for the 2012 Board members before Sept 15th. Call Mickey Wilkowski at (262) 784-5614 with the name of a person (or persons) that you would like to see on the 2012 board. Dues are due by Sept. 1, 2011. Please fill out the membership information included in this issue and send it with your dues to Tod Wirth. We need your data to be sure that our roster is up to date.
Bob
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President's Message for July 2011
Unfortunately, we in Wisconsin will be living with a seemingly perpetual series of elections for the foreseeable future due to the opinions of some political groups that disagree with the actions approved by the leaders of our state government that will finally bring some common sense to the financial condition of the state of Wisconsin. With all of the elections and the related seemingly endless political advertising, I almost hesitate to discuss our clubs election procedure for this year. However, per our clubs bylaws I need to review what actions we must take prior to our annual meeting in November.
The bylaws of our club require that a formal request for nominations for new board members be published in the July Planetary News. We enjoy many, many very highly qualified club members that should be on the Board of Directors to assist in advancing the growth of our club as we begin our next fifty years as the Model T Ford Club of Greater Milwaukee. Let this article be the formal request for nominations for the 2012 Board. Please call Mickey Wilkowski at (262)784-5614 with your list of nominations.
The bylaws then define that a reminder of the request for nominations be published in the August Planetary News. Nominations for Board Members will be due no later than September 15, 2011. Our Dues for 2012 are due on September 1, 2011, so ballots will be mailed to all members in good standing as of October 1, 2011. All members elected to the board will be notified.
At the annual meeting (Presidents Dinner) on November 12, 2011, an election of Officers will be held. The bylaws define that the current elected Officers who have served their two (2) year term will remain on the board for an additional year. (Note: this year, since Tod Wirth volunteered to serve out Mike McOlash's term as treasurer, he will not automatically serve for an additional year.) We in effect will be electing eight (8) board members to join the existing three (3) Officers to fill out the eleven (11) member board. Then at the annual meeting (President's Dinner), the members present will choose from the board members elected and officers serving an additional year term, the four (4) new officers of our club for the next two (2) years. Your participation is encouraged during the nomination process to provide nominations, to accept a nomination and then to attend the Presidents Dinner to take an active part in the election of new club officers.
As I write these notes on the eve of the fourth of July, I have to reflect on the profound meaning of the actions taken on this date, so many years ago, by a group of brave men who signed at great personal risk a document that created the greatest nation ever conceived by man. We all need to work very hard to be sure that the freedoms that, that document envisioned (as simple as an election in our club) do not piece by piece, option by option, right by right, freedom by freedom do not get taken away from us by out of control government officials and/or agencies. We all to often take our freedoms for granted. We all need to be watchful and work to maintain the freedoms to live with the choices we enjoy. I trust you all enjoyed a memorable fourth of July.
Bob
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Boy's Girl's Club Chief (Jim Clark) goes National
Jim Clark will be head of organization serving 4 million
By Tom Held theld@journalsentinel.com
The leader of the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee has been selected to take the role of president and CEO of the national organization early in 2012, the agencies announced Thursday.
Jim Clark, a former Journal Communications executive, will move from managing the organization that serves 35,000 children in the Milwaukee area to one that serves 4 million children across the country. 'On a national level, to be able to make a difference in kids' lives, especially the kids who need us most, was extremely exciting,' said Clark, 49.
'They are our future leaders, elected officials, business leaders and nonprofit leaders,' he said. 'We need to collectively do whatever we can to make sure we have a ready group and a solid group of youth to lead this country forward'.
Clark will succeed Roxanne Spillett, who has been the president and CEO of the Boys and Girls Clubs of America for 16 years.
He will finish the year in Milwaukee, then move to Atlanta and work alongside Spillett for several months.
Locally, the Milwaukee organization will begin searching for Clark's replacement, with a goal of identifying a new leader in October, according to David Radtke, the chairman of the board of directors.
Over Clark's eight years as the local chapter leader, the Boys and Girls Clubs expanded from 23 sites to 40, built up the SPARK early literacy program and increased its membership from 25,000 to 35,000. The local agency is in the midst of a Decade of Hope initiative to expand its reach to 45 locations, serving 41,000 members by 2017.
PROGRAM IN SCHOOLS
Once thought of as a gym and swim program, the Boys and Girls Clubs have become more of a complement to local schools. In the Milwaukee area, 32 of the programs are located in schools.
'We're not the school system, but we have worked carefully and thoughtfully to connect with schools so that we can effectively, efficiently and proactively help and augment what goes on in the school day' Clark said.
Clark's skills in raising money and managing a large organization earned the attention of the national leaders and the promotion. 'We are delighted to have found a strong leader with the exceptional qualities and experience that Jim Clark possesses,' said Emil Brolick, chairman of the board of governors of the Boys and Girls Clubs of America.
Clark is a Shorewood high School graduate who received a degree in finance and marketing from the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee. He has devoted his charitable work to children's causes, serving on the boards of Junior Achievement of Wisconsin and the Boy Scouts.
His goals for the national organization track those experiences.
'We have to get more kids graduating from high school, reading proficient and math proficient,' he said. 'We need to bring the force of many different resources together that are aimed and concentrated on improving kids life, especially those that are the most challenged.'
Article appeared in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Friday June 17, 2011.
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President's Message for June 2011
At our last monthly meeting of the Model T Club we had a spirited discussion about member participation and discussed many good ideas on how we could get more of our club members & their Model T's on the road at our events. One of the results of that discussion was the thoughtful comments by Sharon Venski that appeared in the May edition of the Planetary News. I trust that everyone has read the article (if not, please read it) and will seriously consider her comments. We belong to this club because we enjoy Model T Fords. The best way to completely enjoy your Model T is to drive it every chance you can and participate in club events.
Sometimes the name of an event turns out to be somewhat profound. Last falls 'First and Last Tour' was rained out, so it was rescheduled as the 'Washout Tour' spring tour. The weather was cloudy and threatening at the two starting points. Rain did occur by mid day. As a result only some portions of the event did again get 'Washed' out. I am sure everyone enjoyed the tour roads, poker event and I hope stayed mostly dry. We did have a good turn out of members and guests with some T's that we don't normally see on our tours. Thank you's to Sharon for all of her efforts to set up this event and to all of you that toured to Union Grove and back on May 21st, the day that the world was predicted to end. The world did not end and a little rain on a tour should not and will not deter Model T owners from enjoying their cars.
As I write these notes on Memorial Day 2011, my thoughts include giving thanks to all of those men and women who have served and are serving in our countries military to allow all of us to enjoy life in the greatest country on the face of the earth. We all come from different walks of life with different perspectives on all subjects, but we all continue to be able to enjoy the freedoms unique to the USA.
Our June calendar includes two tours. We were invited, at the last minute, by the Dairyland Tin Lizzies to join them on the Yellowstone Trail Tour on June 4. Dave Perrine has set up a 'Pickers Tour' to Waterford on June 26. The destination on this tour sounds very, very interesting. By late June it should have warmed up (by then it is officially Summer) and the sky's should have dried out. Crank up your Model T and join us.
Take a look at our clubs very full activity calendar for July. We have a variety of parades, car shows, National Tour, overnight tour, IOLA and our annual picnic. There should be an activity on that schedule that everyone will enjoy. Join us.
Bob
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Guest Editorial Sharon Venski
Heart to Heart --- Me & You
Hey, you. Yeah YOU! You, who are reading the newsletter right now. Pull up a chair—we need to talk. Seriously. First off, thanks for reading the Planetary News! Mike puts a lot of effort into this publication and it’s great to see you’re taking the time to read it and see what’s been going on. But I’ve got a few questions for you. If I were to run into you on the street (well not LITERALLY), would I recognize you? I SHOULD, I’m on the Board for crying out loud. But you know what? I read about half of the names in the Roster, and I don’t even recognize them. Then there are names that I know I recognize (I’ve been around a LONG time—I just took about 2 decades off is all) but I can’t picture you. Maybe I’ve seen you at an Annual Dinner or something. But you know why I don’t know you? Cuz you don’t show up to stuff—that’s why. How about this one. Would I recognize your car? I mean your T (or your A). Not the car you use when you occasionally attend something. Now I get that I’m pretty easy to recognize and so is my T, but seriously. I should know you and yours by now. How come I don’t? I know a LOT of you have Ts in perfectly good running condition. Well, maybe not “perfectly” good, and maybe not even always “running”. But we’ve had gatherings at the house of whoever needs help getting the car up to snuff, and I’ll bet I haven’t been to YOUR house. So your T must be running fine or you’d have asked the club to come twist a wrench with you—it’s what we do. Then why don’t I see you IN it?! Here’s the deal gang. We joined this club and pay our dues every year because we have a common interest—the CARS. We’ve got tours set up all over heck and back to some pretty interesting places, and we’re just getting started. So what’s it going to take to get you to show up, and show up in your T? You guys elected me to the Board and I thank you for that. So it’s time for me to start shaking things up. I’m not above calling around and soliciting feedback, so don’t be surprised if your phone rings soon. I really want to know why we see the same half dozen Ts or As show up to every event and not 20 or 30. There are 58 entries in the 2011 Roster, and 51 of us list at least one car. Bill—I’ll let you off the hook on this one, Georgia is outside of even my expectations! But come on the rest of you. If Dave can show up to almost everything from Iron Ridge then what excuse can you have. I’m not saying you have to attend EVERYTHING. But pull the cover off the car and join us for one or two events will ya? You can start by giving me a ring and RSVP'ing for the Poker Run to Great Lakes Dragaway. And if you’ve got any suggestions or feedback as to why we’re not seeing you, we’re all ears. This is your club too. We wish to see everyone take part in it!
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President's Message for May 2011
For awhile on Saturday afternoon, April 16 at our "Spring" Tune Up Seminar, we all experienced an enough snow to cover the grassy areas next to Frank Daily's garage. Now as I am writing these notes, the weather forecast is for a "wintery mix". We have just experienced the coldest April in fifteen years and the third coldest April since we have been keeping records. Enough already. After a rain out last fall we trust that the Model T gods will decide to provide us with a sunny, warm and dry weather on Saturday May 21, to allow Sharon Venski to lead a large group of Model T's over some great country roads and onto the drag strip at Union Grove. We hope that you will be able to join us. (Just in case the gods let us down, the rain date is Sunday May 22).
The summer car activity season will soon arrive, whether the weather cooperates of not. Alice an I plan to participate in a wide variety of car related events during the season. The partial list includes, but not limited to, the following: Out tour to the Great Lake Drag A Way in Union Grove, Tour'd Garage, a week long tour in the Finger Lakes area of New York State, British Cars Field Day, Survivors Car show in Illinois, Our clubs June Tour, Fourth of July parades and picnic, IOLA, MTFCI National Tour in Rochester Minnesota, EAA Experience, Escape to Wisconsin Tour, 60th High School reunion, Open Air Classic Tour, Port Washington Winery Tour, Masterpiece Car Show, Fall Overnighter, South Shore YMCA Car Show and a variety of other swap meets and car shows including the grand daddy of them all, as we enjoy, Hershey. (Note: this list does not include events we would like to attend, but cannot due to the inevitable date conflicts). Our "car" activity season will conclude with the President's Dinner. This years dinner will include elections for new club officers. I would suggest that you start thinking now about how you can participate in activity supporting our club events and activities. The more you participate in activities, the more enjoyment you will receive from your car hobby.
We do have a few Memory Books celebrating the first fifty years of our Greater Milwaukee Model T Ford Club available. Please contact me if you are interested in obtaining a copy for your library.
Bob
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President's Message for April 2011
Those of you that attended one or both of the seminars offered by the Dairyland Tin Lizzies Club and by our club during March enjoyed a large turnout of club members and guests, learned much more about how the Model T transmission actually works, enjoyed many hours of Model T talk and especially at Rich Elders Garage possibly gained a few pounds. Our thanks to Rich Elder and his sisters for providing the sumptuous spread of delicious food. Our thanks to Tod Wirth for all the time and effort he put into his transmission presentation at both seminars. Our thanks to each of you for attending these seminars. A good turn out at these events always makes hosting the event very worthwhile.
We have our annual spring tune up seminar at Frank Daily's garage on Saturday April 16, 2011. Let's all hope that the snow will be gone by then and that the salt will be washed off the roads by then. We never know what our weather will be in mid April, so if we have some warmth and sunshine, bring out your Model T.
Our 50th Anniversary memory books are now complete. All those persons that attended the 50th Anniversary Extravaganza on July 31 / August 1, 2010 now have their copies. We do have a few extra copies available. The book includes 190 pages, all in color, documenting the first fifty years of our club. Also included is a CD of color photo's of the 50th Anniversary event and two DVD's of that event. Anyone who is interested in obtaining a copy should call me at (262) 628-2292. These books are available for $20.00 (which is less than our actual costs) plus any shipping costs. I am sure that you would enjoy this record of our club history.
As of the date of this writing, we do not have an event finalize for June If you have the desire to organize an event, run a tour and/or have an idea of something you would like the club to do, please give me a call.
For the first time we have the potential of participating in four parades in July, three on the 4th of July and one on July 16th. Participating in these events has the potential of providing some income for the club treasury. Look at the event schedule and call the person listed for the parades to express your interest. Exact time and meeting locations will be provided at a later date.
Bob
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President's Message for March 2011
On a balmy February Sunday afternoon, we all again enjoyed our Ice Trial event, slipping, sliding and splashing the Polo Car around a short track. Everyone who was interested, was able to get in several timed laps. Kevin Helinski brought out his roadster, with tire chains on all four wheels to enjoy many many laps. John Meinholz did some laps in his speedster. I submit that the highlights of the day were to watch the expressions on the faces of our youngest members as they got their chance to drive a Model T. Out sincere thanks to Maynard Knudson for the used of the Polo Car, to John Meinholz for trailering the Polo Car to and from and along with Tim Kirst and Jim Oliva for getting the Polo Car in fine running condition. Jim Oliva did an excellent job in organizing this event. We had a great turnout of members, so thank you to all that attended to make this a very successful show.
Our 50th Anniversary Memory Books are now complete. We will be working on getting copies to each of you that registered for the event last July 31/August 1, 2010. I am sure that you will enjoy reviewing this book. A great deal of effort by many members went into organizing this document. However, this book would not have been possible with the creativity and endless hours at his computer by Mike Zahorik. Mile also found and worked with the printer to produce multiple copies. Our sincere club thanks to Mike for his efforts on this document to celebrate the first 50 years of the Greater Milwaukee Model T Ford Club. We do have a few extra copies available. Anyone who is interested should call me at (262) 628-2292. These books are available for $20.00 (which is less than our actual costs) plus any shipping costs. I am sure that you would enjoy this club record.
The next two club events are seminars that could provide some help and/or assistance in getting your 'T' tuned up and ready for the up coming touring season. Details on these events are published herein. We hope to see you are these events. As of this writing, we do not have an event finalized for June. If you have the desire to organize and event and/or have an idea of something you would like the club to do, give me a call.
Bob
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President's Message for February 2011
First Event of 2011:
For our first event of 2011, we enjoyed a very enlightening and educational afternoon at the Harley Davidson Museum on January 16. The 108 year history of the Harley Davidson Company is very will documented in this extremely well designed museum. It was very interesting to learn of the variety of products that this company has produced in addition to motorcycles. This very complete collection is a credit to the company founders fore site to save several motorcycles from each years production. After the museum visit we enjoyed a late lunch, early dinner and/or a snack at Miss Katie's Diner. Our thanks to Erv and Mickey Wilkowski for organizing this tour for all of us.
Our February event promises to be something very special. The long term weather forecasts seem to show that the ice will be sound. It has been many years since we have the opportunity to "race" (against time only) in a Model T Polo Car around a slippery, icy track. The previous runnings of this event have proven to be an absolute blast. It is amazing to feel how fast 10 or 12 miles per hour can be. Spectators will have the option to be up close out on the ice or stay warm and dry up in the lounge, viewing the activities through large windows while also enjoying some refreshments, This event is something very special to enjoy made possible by Wisconsin's weather and through the generosity of the Polo car owners and maintenance team. Dress warm and we hope that you will join us.
Our Club's 50th Anniversary Memory Books are now being printed. Each book will contain almost 200 pages printed in color. Thanks to many of you club members there are many terrific articles describing 50 years of great club memories along with many, many photos. Each book will include two DVD's, one showing our Saturday activities and one showing our Sunday activities, during our two day extravaganza in July/August 2010. Also a CD will be included showing an extensive collection of photo's from that two day event. Every 50th Anniversary event entry will receive a copy of this book. Extra copies will be available for purchase by club members and others who did not attend the 50th celebration and would like to have a copy. The books will be available in a few weeks.
Bob
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President's Message for January 2011
Happy New Year to all:
Our T's are now enjoying their long winters rest. I hope that you are not "resting" and are either tinkering with your T's and/or planning any maintenance, repairs, upgrades or restoration work required to be prepared for the 2011 driving season that is only a few short months away. As we look forward to 2011, the board has scheduled a long list of activities and events for all club members to enjoy this year. The schedule as it exists today is included in this issue. We start this year with our tour to the Harley Davidson Museum on January 16, 2011. We hope many of you will contact Erv or Mickey Wilkowski and join us. We are always open to your suggestions for event ideas that could be added to our 2011 calendar to expand your involvement in club activities. A very good way to increase your enjoyment of your Model T and our club is to volunteer to assist in creating, organizing and/or helping to run a club event. We are always looking for club members to help the event chairman. Long experience proves that the more effort you put into an event, the more you receive out of the event. We were all extremely shocked by the totally unexpected death of Mike McOlash, last December. Mike was an active member in our club, active in his church and very involved in the activities of the Boy Scouts and Badger Trails. Mike choose to miss our 50th Anniversary celebration by spending that period of time working on a church project in Nicaragua. He will definitively be missed by his family, friends and our club. In accordance with our clubs by laws, our new club treasurer will be selected by the Board of Directors. For the first time in many years the Annual National Tour of the Model T Ford Club International in July 2011 is relatively close to us, in Rochester Minnesota. It sure would be great if our club would be able to be will represented at this event. For those of you that have never attended a National Tour, July 2011 would be a great opportunity. During the first week of August 2011, the Dairyland Tin Lizzies has organized a regional tour with headquarters at the Cedar Valley Conference Center near West Bend, Wisconsin. This promises to be a great week of "T" touring and "T" activities. More details will be available very soon. Bob
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Frank Fenton has sold his line of Anderson Timers to Mark Hutchinson (Hutch) of Spokane Washington.
Hutch will continue providing the Anderson Style timer and quality service, that Frank Fenton had. Check the Links page Links to have access to the Tip Top Timer website and Hutch's email.
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The Greater Milwaukee Model T Ford Club, Board of Directors appointed, 'Tod Wirth' as new Treasurer and Membership Chairman.
At the January 5, 2011, Greater Milwaukee Model T Ford Club Board Meeting, the Board of Directors has appointed Tod Wirth as the replacement Treasurer for Mike McOlash, who passed away December 6, 2010.
Tod will serve out the remainder of Mike McOlash's term, through 2011. Tod will also replace Mike as the club's Membership Chairman.
Please welcome Tod to his new position.
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In Memoriam of Myron “Mike” McOlash
April 28th, 1939 ~ December 6th, 2010
The Greater Milwaukee Model T Ford Club sadly announces the passing of a close friend, active Board member and Treasurer; Mike McOlash.
Mike dedicated his life to helping others and was a significant leader in such worthy groups as the Boy Scouts of America, Badger Trails, and other charitable organizations. Most recently Mike devoted his structural Engineering talents and strong work ethic to help rebuild impoverished areas in Nicaragua. His dedication to our nation’s youth, to Our Redeemer Lutheran Church Mission program, to the Milwaukee Model T Club, and to anyone in need will not be forgotten, and will not easily be replaced.
We mourn our loss of a dear friend and a mentor, and thank Mike not only for the many fond memories, but for the charitable inspiration he instilled in all of us.
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President's Message for December 2010
After a long gestation period, our 50th anniversary grill badges have arrived and they look fantastic. All of you that requested grill badges, prior to ordering them to be produced, now have your badge. In order to allow these badges to happen we had to order a minimum quantity of badges. As of the date that I am writing this, we have five (5) extra badges. No more will be produced, so if you are interested in a grill badge (or another badge) before we sell out, let me know. Thank you all for supporting this club project. The large (8" diameter) 50th Anniversary logo patches should be arriving in early December. We ordered a few extra beyond the amount originally requested by members. If you would like one or two of these eight inch diameter patches, please let me know. Every club depends on a monthly newsletter of some type to allow all members to receive continuing information on club activities (past and future) and other items of interest to all members. On behalf of all members of our club, I would personally like to thank Mike Zahorik for his continuing efforts to create what is the best monthly club publication we in this club have enjoyed since this club was formed and without a doubt one of the finest publications any club of our size can enjoy. Thank you Mike. As we fondly look back on the 50th year of our Greater Milwaukee Model T Ford Club activities, we all need to be thankful for the memories we have created, for all the friendships we have strengthened, for the history of our beloved Model T Fords we have preserved and for the bright future of the next fifty years of fun and fellowship that the Greater Milwaukee Model T Ford Club members will create. Your continuing enthusiasm, involvement and participation will insure this bright future. Your President Bob Wirth
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President's Message for November 2010
On Saturday, November 6, 2010, we enjoyed a very nice gathering of members at our annual Presidents Dinner. After cocktails and dinner we reviewed the activates of 2010, recognized the members that organized our 2010 events and then enjoyed a very historically interesting video of the contributions of the Model T Ford ambulances in World War I. Thank you all who attended and enjoyed this dinner gathering. The results of our election for the 2011 board members was announced at the President's Dinner. The board meeting minutes published herein list the 2011 board members. I would personally like to thank the following 2010 board members who are retiring for their help and assistance in 2010. Thank you to Kevin Esser, John Gelfer, Lowell La Forge and Mark Paulson. I look forward to your continuing involvement and active participation in all of our club activities. The Memory Book, promised to all participants of our 50th Anniversary Extravaganza, documenting the first fifty years of our club is in the final editing process. It has grown to be almost 200 pages. It will be printed in full color. In addition to other interesting Model T Ford data, the book includes many photos of past club activities and thanks to many members memory articles by members (part and present) that describe the enjoyment that membership in this club has provided over the past fifty years. The book will be sent to the printer soon. We will let everyone know when it is published. We are now looking forward to the new year of 2011. We will be setting up our calendar of events for 2011 in the next few months. The board is always looking for suggestions of the type of events you would like to see. We also would very much appreciate your assistance in setting up some events. Our calendar of events will include some familiar activities and some new ideas and doing some things new to our club. The holiday season has arrived whether we are ready of not. The past couple of years have provided a variety of challenges for all of us, however, for now we still have to be thankful that we live in the greatest country on Earth. On Thanksgiving Day, I hope you all will give thanks for the family and friends you enjoy and for the opportunities that you need to find and then explore. Alice and I wish all of you a very joyous Christmas and a happy and prosperous New Year. Your President Bob Wirth
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President's Message for October 2010
Our Club dues for 2011 are now due. In order to be sure our roster for 2011 has up to date information, it is very important that you fill out the membership application and return it to Mike McOlash with your check. Mickey Wilkowski is accepting nominations for the 2011 Board of Directors. Directors are elected to one year terms (Note: Officers are elected to two year terms). Mickey will contact you when you are nominated. I would encourage you to accept the nomination for the opportunity to help guide the direction of our club as we begin our second 50 years. If we have more than eight persons accept their nomination, and I hope that we will, we will have an election to determine the eight directors for 2011 at the Presidents Dinner on November 6, 2010. Our Clubs thanks go out to Jim Rodell Sr. and the Dairyland Tin Lizzies for inviting our Club to enjoy their Raspberry Tour on September 12, 2010. We enjoyed perfect weather for T touring. We visited the Milwaukee Light Engineering Society's Park to ride their 1/8 full sized model trains, enjoy raspberry pie alamode ( plus other good food) at the Jackson Historical Society and an amazing collection of vintage fire equipment at the venerable fire museum. We had a very nice turnout of our club members. Reservations for the Presidents dinner are beginning to arrive. Please send them before the November 1 dead line, so the final arrangements at Nardo's Passport Inn can be finalized. I look forward to having you join us on November 6th. The genuine cloisonné grill badges arrived on Wednesday September 15. These badges, in full color look great, however, I had to reject them and have them sent back to the supplier. The problem was that the mounting bolts on the back of the badge were not as long as specified and would not reach through our radiators. The supplier will replace these bolts. As of this writing, I do not have a new delivery date. As soon as they arrive, again I will contact each of you that ordered a badge or two. Your President Bob Wirth
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President's Message for September 2010
On Sunday September 12, 2010 the Dairyland Tim Lizzies club has invited our club members to join them on their 'Raspberry Tour' starting at 9:00 AM at the Washington County Fair Park, just north of Jackson. This tour includes a visit (with train rides) to the Milwaukee Light Engineering Society's large scale outdoor model railroad site, Jackson's Raspberry Festival and a tour of the venerable fire collection of antique fire engines and equipment. This will be an easy, leisurely and fun tour. We very much appreciate receiving this invitation. Please join us. The grill badges we ordered are due to arrive in mid September. Apparently there was a slight delay in production, due to the Chinese New Year. Many of these grill badges have already been reserved by club members, however, we did order a few extra grill badges to have them available for anyone that would be interested. Please contact me (262) 628-2292 if you would like to reserve one (or two). The preparation of the memory book continues. All persons who attended the 50th Anniversary will receive a copy of this book. We expect the book to be published this fall. We hope you will join many other club members to help us celebrate out clubs 50th Anniversary at the President's Dinner on November 6, 2010.This years event will be at Nardo's Passport Inn in Germantown. The Board of Directors for 2011 will be determined/announced after dinner. The two year terms of the club officers continue into 2011. We have some entertainment planned that we hope you will enjoy. Dinner choices and reservation details are included in this issue of the Planetary News, see Page 10. Reservations by the due date are required. Your President Bob Wirth
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President's Message for August 2010
Our 50th Anniversary Extravaganza celebration is now part of our clubs history. We enjoyed a great turnout for the tour on Saturday, for the Dinner on Saturday night and for Sunday's picnic. We enjoyed favorable weather on both days. Saturday started out cloudy but cleared up in the afternoon after a very few, very light sprinkles that only succeeded spotting up the brass on a few cars. We had reports of heavy rain both north and south of out tour route. Sunday was sunny and quite warm so the air conditioning the Wagner parks pavilion was very much appreciated by all. On behalf of the Greater Milwaukee Model T Ford Club, I want to thank all of you who attended this event; who helped in the planning process; who donated items for the silent auction, raffle and door prizes; who donated food products/items for the picnic on Sunday; who bought raffle tickets; who bid on silent auction items; who drove the tour route; who participated in the car games and all of you who acted as a chairman of an individual element of the event to make sure that each element of this event happened as planned (or better than planned). There are too many people to list individually in this short article, however a detailed complete list will be included in the memory book. The preparation of the memory book is well underway. All persons who attended the 50th Anniversary Celebration will received a copy of this book. We expect the book to be published by fall. You can create your own memento of this event by having the 50th Anniversary logo applied to a shirt, jacket or other item of your choice. Please refer to the information below on how you can accomplish this. Grill Badges have been ordered. I am still accepting requests for these Badges. We expect to receive them in late August or early September. Based on the quantity we needed to order, the final cost worked out to be $30 each. On Saturday, August 21, the Dairyland Tim Lizzies will be hosting the Annual Model T Day at the Wisconsin Automotive Museum in Hartford. Many members of that club supported our 50th celebration. It would be very appropriate of our club would provide a large number of cars at this event. Your President Bob Wirth
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President's Message for July 2010
On a "Sunny" June 13, 2010 a large group of Milwaukee Model T'ers met at Fleet Farm in Menomonee Falls to begin a long tour to Markesan. We had T's, A's and a variety of modern iron. Our sincere thanks to Dave Perrine and Gary Beaupre for organizing what turned out to be a very enlightening and interesting tour. We have had a good response to our 50th Anniversary Extravaganza on July 31 and August 1, 2010. Based on the registrations received, we are proceeding with the planning for the event. If you have not sent in your registration yet, even though registrations are closed, we will make every effort to accommodate you if your plans may include this celebration of our Club's 50th anniversary. It is very unlikely that a celebration/event of this nature will happen again for many, many more years. We are trusting that your generosity will help fund this event with your donations of items for the raffle, silent auction and door prizes. You can create your own memento of this event by having the 50th Anniversary Logo applied to a shirt, jacket or other item of your choice. Please refer to information on this issue on how you can accomplish this memento (see below). The Ford Motor Company has again invited our Model T's to attend two great days at the EAA Air Venture event on July 28 and 29, 2010 in Oshkosh. This event is very special and great fun for T owners and the EAA attendees that also enjoy our Model T's. Information on how to attend this event is in this issue (see page 8). Although we have had some response/interest in having 50th anniversary grill badges created, the response is far less than the minimum number of badgers required to place an order. The board will decide if we should proceed. Please call me if you would like to purchase a grill badge or two, help the board make an ordering decision. Your President Bob Wirth
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President's Message for June 2010
Remember to Register Registration Form for the 50th Anniversary Extravaganza by JUNE 25th!
We that toured to view Lake Geneva on May 16th, want to thank Kevin Esser for organizing a very nice tour on a very nice day (a bit windy for some of the open cars). The tour became very special for us when we met some old friends that we had not seen in more than three years, in a shop in Lake Geneva. Our 50th Anniversary Extravaganza on July 31/August 1 2010 will soon be happening. Registrations are flowing in. The deadline for receiving your registration is June 25, 2010. We certainly hope you will be joining us. We need to know who will be participating by June 25, 2010 so that we can make the appropriate reservations and order the appropriate number of items that will be part of this 50th Anniversary Extravaganza. This event will include door prizes, raffle items and a silent auction. We have contacted a variety of Model T Parts suppliers and they have offered to provide a variety of items for these activities. Various club members have already donated a wide variety of items including Model T parts, Model T memorabilia, Model T books and other items of general interest. The generous ladies of our club have already created and donated many beautifully handcrafted (quilted, knitted, sewn and needle pointed) items for the silent auction, door prizes and/or raffle. As a club member if you would like to help support this 50th Anniversary event by donating an appropriate item(s), contact me at (262) 628-2292. Any items that would be of interest to the other participants would be appreciated. We will be creating 50th Anniversary Cloisonné Grill Badges. Please review information included in this issue. You also can acquire an item(s) of clothing with the 50th Anniversary logo embroidered upon the item. Your President Bob Wirth
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President's Message for May 2010
With the help of many club members, the final detailed planning for our clubs 50th Anniversary Extravaganza is well underway. Registrations are now being received. I certainly hope that a majority of our current club members will attend this event. Invitations have been sent to many, many previous members of our club. Invitations have been sent to members of eight other Model T Clubs in Wisconsin and northern Illinois. The very low registration fee includes a colorful car banner (the same type as provided on national tours) and a goodie bag with the event logo. This bag will include (but not be limited to the following items) an event patch - one per person, a 50 year club Memory Book, useful auto related memorabilia item and many other interesting items. Also included in the registration fee will be all food and beverages at the Sunday Picnic. The event schedule includes a 50th Anniversary tour during the afternoon of Saturday, July 31 and an informal dinner Saturday evening. The family style dinner will include a hot appetizer buffet followed by steak tips with mushroom sauce, roast turkey including all the "Fixin's" and including fresh baked bread and beverages (coffee/tea/milk/juice/soda) with a heaping scoop of ice cream for dessert. The evening will also include door prizes, raffle items and a silent auction. For those of us staying overnight at the comfort suites, the hospitality will go on into the later evening. During the afternoon of Sunday August 1, at Wagner Park, the activities will include a picnic lunch with beverages, a car display, car games and the conclusion of the raffle and silent auction. We will be photographing and video taping this event. On the Saturday afternoon tour we would very much appreciate it if you would wear clothing appropriate to the Model T era. The photos and video will be much more memorable showing the participants in period dress. (Note: Alice and I have participated in several Horseless Carriage Club tours. Those club members generally tour in costumes appropriate to the year and type of car they are driving. The visual impact and "Fun Factor" is significantly enhanced by the costumes worn). We then should wear this period clothing to Saturday night's dinner. Even the car display on Sunday would be better if period clothing is worn. This event will include door prizes, raffle items and a silent auction. We have contacted a variety of Model T parts suppliers and they have offered to provide a variety of items for these activities. Various club members have already donated a wide variety of items including Model T parts, Model T memorabilia, Model T Books and other items of general interest. The generous ladies of the club have already created and donated six beautifully handcrafted (quilted, knitted and needle pointed) items for the silent auction and/or raffle. As a club member, if you would like to help support this 50th Anniversary event by donating an appropriate item or items, please contact me at (262) 628-2292. Any items that would be of interest to the participants would be appreciated. This Great 50th Anniversary Extravaganza will be greatly improved by your participation. I hope you will be able to join us for the celebration. Your President Bob Wirth
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Safety --- Dangers of moving backwards
This article recently appeared in an Arkansas newspaper. Sharon Venski, who submitted the article, recieved the article from her father. Appearently, this 1921 touring car was traveling up a hill when the engine died. The car then rolled backward down hill. We all know that the Model T's steering is difficult to control when traveling backward. The driver probably swung the steering wheel to one side and caused the car to flip.
FLIPPED LIZZIE --- Baxter County Deputy Aaron Brown looks over a 1921 Model T involved in a one-vechile roll-over accident Monday in Baxter County. Richard Graham, 25, of Florida was driving the all original 1921 Ford owned by his grandfther, Paul Graham, 65, of Lakeview, Arkansas. As the Model T was going up a hill on Baxter county road 1084, the engine died and the car rolled backward and overturned. Richard Graham and Steven Graham, 19, also of Florida, were taken by ambulance to Baxter Regional Medical Center. Paul Graham, also a passenger, was going to the hosipital in a private vechile.
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President's Message for April 2010
On behalf of our Model T Club, I want to thank Jim and Donna Nowak for hosting an excellent seminar on a beautiful March 21, 2010, Sunday afternoon. Thanks to Tod Wirth for leading us thru the Model T Club safety inspection check list, Thanks to Donna for providing an excellent spread of tasty snacks and on behalf of Jim, Thanks to all of the Model T Club members that succeeded in getting his 1924 Huckster running beautifully. A very enjoyable afternoon. Planning for our Clubs 50th Anniversary Extravaganza is well underway. More details along with a registration form are included with this issue of the Planetary News. Invitations have been sent to many previous members and eight other Model T Clubs in Wisconsin and Northern Illinois. Our requests for volunteers to help with this event have produced many positive results. As of the day this note is being written, I personally want to thank the following friends that have recently volunteered to help with the: Silent Auction - Sharon Venski and Evelyn Beaupre Raffle Ticket Sales - Jim Nowak Car Games - Tod and Sharon Wirth Trailer Parking - Dave Perrine and Gary Beaupre Help as needed - Maynard Knudson and Lowell LaForge Thanks to Marge Kranz for creating our Registration Form. Thanks to Kevin Esser for printing our 50th Anniversary letterhead. Continuing thanks to Mike Zahorik for pursuing leads to obtain donations for our silent auction and we look forward to receiving your written memories to be included on our memory book, that will be produced for this celebration. Your President Bob Wirth
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President's Message for March 2010
In 1962, while talking to an old friend at my ten year high school class reunion, he mentioned that he had just purchased a Model A Ford Station Wagon and he needed to sell his 1925 Model T Ford TuDor sedan. Literally within a few minutes of that discussion I had agreed to purchase my first Model T. That summer we joined the Greater Milwaukee Model T Ford Club. The 1925 TuDor was drivable, but not restored, Some areas of the body appeared to have been painted with a course brush. The original worn interior upholstery was covered with a heavy red fabric. At that time we lived in a small upper flat apartment and did not have a garage. We rented a garage some blocks away from our apartment. This allowed for car storage, but not a good place for work on the car. This situation meant that we drove the T in 'as purchased' condition. We did not participate in very many Model T club events, initially because I mistakenly thought that I needed a beautifully restored car to be welcomed. How wrong I was! I soon found that the condition of the car had nothing to do with participating in club events. I found that even if the T was not running, I could still participate in all club events. Over the years it has become clear that although the original reason for anyone to participate in club events is because of a mutual interest in Model T Fords. The long term benefits are the friendships created over the years. I have over and over realized that, as with many endeavors, the more effort you put into it, the more benefits you get out of it (with interest). The strength of our club remains with the great people who enjoy the long term friendships developed over the many years of Model T related activities. Your President Bob Wirth
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President's Message for February 2010
February 6, 2010 --- Message from President Bob Wirth.The six person cast of "Mid Life: The Crisis Musical" at the Sunset Play House, touched on, with clever humor, every situation we all in midlife (and beyond) have experienced sometimes without humor. Our sides were sore from laughing. Thank You from our club, to Mickey and Erv for organizing this annual play and late afternoon supper. We are beginning to finalize the 2010 Schedule of events for our Model T club. Part of the planning for our clubs 50th anniversary event has included reviewing the fifty years of club events. That review has brought back great memories of the fun and fellowship that we who attended some of these events have experienced. I hope that as you review the calendar of events (p.12), that you will join the group to create some great memories of your own. The planning also continues for our clubs 50th anniversary extravaganza. As details become finalized they will be detailed in the Planetary News. At this time the general plan of activities is a special tour on Saturday July 31, 2010, followed by a car display before an informal dinner. Sunday, August 1, 2010 we will enjoy a picnic at Wagner Park with lots of food, beverages and car games plus some surprises. We hope all club members will be able to join us for both days of this very special celebration. Your President Bob Wirth
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January 3, 2010 --- Here's a special message from our President.
There are two national Model ‘T’ Ford Clubs in this country, the Model T Ford Club International , started in Elgin, Illinois, with headquarters now located in Hudson, North Carolina and the Model T Ford Club of America, started in California with headquarters (and a museum) now located in Centerville, Indiana. It seems that originally the “International” Club served the Midwest and eastern states and the “America” club served the western states. Now both clubs serve not only the whole country, but also Model T enthusiasts all over the world. Both clubs organize local and national tours. Both clubs publish very professional color magazines six times each year with many interesting ‘T’ articles, stories, photographs and technical data. Both clubs provide event insurance for local clubs, if certain conditions are met. The annual dues of $35.00 is the same for both national clubs. In 2010 our club will be celebrating our 50th year being a chapter of the Model T Ford Club International. Based on our current membership data for 2010, 30% of our members belong to the Model T Ford Club International (MTFCI), while 38% of our members belong to the Model T Ford Club of America (MTFCA). We have 13 members who are members of both national clubs. Both national clubs have the same goal of promoting our enjoyment and preservation of Model T Fords. Since our club, The Greater Milwaukee Model T Ford Club is a chapter of the Model T Ford Club International, it would seem very appropriate that those members choosing to be a member of a national club, should choose the “International” Club, or join both national clubs. It would seem very appropriate if we could have more members join the Model T Ford Club International. President Bob Wirth.
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Message from President Bob Wirth. 2010 has the potential to be a milestone year for us, The Greater Milwaukee Model T Ford Club, as we celebrate our 50th Anniversary as a great group of Model T Ford enthusiasts and as an active chapter of the Model T club International. I am personally humbled by the faith the club has placed in me to be your President for this milestone year. Along with the assistance of the club officers and the board of directors we will do everything possible to create an enjoyable year. Your participation will guaranty success. As now planned, our 50th year Extravaganza will be a two day event on Saturday July 31st and August 1st, 2010. The board of directors and other members are now actively working on plans for this event. The monthly board meeting have always been open to all club members. As our planning for this event (and in fact planning for all other events) proceeds, I would encourage any member to join the process by attending our club's board meetings and/or contact a board member with your thoughts and ideas. President Bob Wirth
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Fall Snow Flurry Tour Sunday October 18. Meet at Fleet Farm in Menomonee Falls, Highway Q and 175 at 11:00 AM. Call Kevin Esser or Tim Kirst for more information.
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The Thursday Evening Garage group will not be meeting, until further notice. Tim will notify each of us if the situation changes, but for now please assume that the garage is closed.
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The Saturday, June 13th, Picnic at the Virginia Nursing Home has been CANCELED! Watch for more information regarding whether this event will be rescheduled.
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RACINE - Eugene 'Gene' Jenista, 86, passed away unexpectly on Thursday, April 9, 2009. He was born July 7, 1922, in Franksville, to Roy and Florence Jenista.
He was united in marriage to Betty Peters on August 24, 1946, at Holy Communion Luthern Church and remained a longtime faith and dedicated member.
Gene was a graduate of William Horlick High School, Class of 1941. He retired from Precise Corporation after 41 years of loyal service. During World War II, Gene served in the United States Army in the 553rd Anit-Aircraft Battalion, European Theatre, including the Battle of the Bulge. He was the Sergeant of Arms for the American Legion Post 310 and a member of the VFW. He also was a lifetime charter member of the Fifth Street Yacht Club.
Gene generously donated countless hours helping his church, community, family members and friends. He volunteered many years with Habitit for Humanity and belonged to numerous clubs, including the Model "A" and Model "T" clubs. Gene found great enjoyment in restoring many antique and classic cars throughout the years, along with spending countless hours in his workshop. With his love of wood and his beautiful craftmanship, Gene created timeless treasures that he shared with many. His latest pride and joy was his restored World War II Jeep, "Willy". We all miss seeing him in the Fourth of July parade, which he participated in for well over 30 years. Gene was a memeber of the Milwaukee Model T Club since 1975.