knightfan26917
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Posts posted by knightfan26917
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...long lost vehicles & Route 66....
3 articles for you to read/enjoy, the first 2 written by me.
#1 ... " Finding Long Lost Friends "
READ THE COMPLETE ARTICLE HERE:
http://www.motorgnomes.com/2012/02/finding-long-lost-friends/
"""
Walking home from 5th grade the Friday of Labor Day weekend 1984 I was on a bit of a high. We were, after all, about to embark on a special trip north to see relatives in Minnesota. However, as I rounded the corner of the old Gromer's Supermarket store [the building of which is now gone, in favor of a new fire station; I suppose SOME progress is good], my mood dropped considerably, as I didn't see "my" 1976 Monte Carlo ... anywhere. Oh, I knew it was in its last days with us; Mom and Dad were in the process of evaluating replacement vehicles, including a 1978 Caprice Classic sedan, but I didn't expect it to just be ... gone. Imagine my relief when my parents told me that it was in the garage. This possibility hadn't crossed my young mind because, since they had purchased a 1981 MC SC (mine since December 1999), they routinely left the 1976 MC out when we went away, in an effort to make it look like people were home.
The reason "my" 1976 MC was in the garage (where it had been from the time Dad and Mom bought it in 1976 until they bought the 1981 MC in 1982) didn't make me any happier. They had found a replacement vehicle that would become ours the next Tuesday evening. I was devastated. I wanted NO part of another car. The 1976 MC was MINE, for goodness sakes. While Dad and Mom finished preparations for the trip up to Minnesota that evening, I trudged myself out to the garage and just stared at "my" 1976 MC.
To say I enjoyed that Labor Day weekend with relatives in Minnesota doesn't tell the entire story. I was, after all, one unhappy kid. I know my relatives in Minnesota didn't understand why I was so unhappy, and I suspect that, even now, some 28 years later, they still don't. The weekend, of course, flew by, and we were on the road home Monday morning with the intent of making it home so we could wash "my" 1976 MC one last time that evening. During that trip home, the expressway became a parking lot. We never found out the cause, though, as Dad did something that you aren't supposed to do. He steered our 1981 MC SC through the grassy median and chose another route home.
I remember that next night, the Tuesday after Labor Day weekend 1984, almost as if it was yesterday. The front of "my" 1976 MC smiled at me when I got home from school, but as we drove away from the dealership later that evening in our "new" car (a used 1982 Chevette...hey, at least it was RWD!), I caught a glimpse of the tail end of "my" 1976 MC ... and those taillights literally were frowning at me. I had always seen that "frown" in the rear end, but suddenly that night the frown was suddenly very huge and very real to this at-the-time 11-year-old kid.
I was reminded of all this recently when I found the results of a "title search" I did for that very 1976 MC, the car that started my automotive love affair. I re-discovered the results because, since my energy has increased, I've started the painstaking, long-overdue, and slow task of going through my many papers, files, belongings, etc. In that process, I've also come across a number of old magazines, clippings, and even some letters from people long since gone, whether by death, lost touch, or simply only vaguely remembering the signed name.
"""
#2 ... More of my ROUTE 66 STORY
Chapter#s 26-28, "A Couple in a LTD", "A Rude Awakening" & "Tale of Two Conversations"...:
http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2012/02/25/_thats-the-highway_-17/
#3 ... " Where have all the 1980s cars gone? "
This Tribune article ranks the 1980s MCs (and their Oldsmobile and Pontiac cousins) as "Survivors" with a collectibility grade of C ... do you agree?
There's a missing generation in American car collecting, people who came of age between 1974-1990. Collectors of cars from that period are conspicuously absent. Hot-rod shows are divided between V-8-powered gray panthers in 1930-1960s muscle and 20-somethings with Asian pocket rockets from 1990 to the present....
Extinct cars were wretched when new, with fragile motors, bad electrics, questionable handling and reliability issues. They are 99 percent gone.
Endangered species cars may still be found in small towns, parked outside seniors' homes, or at estate sales. You may find a little old lady car that you can bond with (as a contrarian), and find parts in wrecking yards.
Survivors had special merit — the 1984-89 Corvette C4 is still a marvelous car, and the turbocharged Buick Grand National was collectible from day one. Some plush-o-matic cruisers were bought by folks with white belts and plaid pants. Think Cadillac Eldorado, Buick Riviera and Oldsmobile Toronado. Other survivors were so numerous and inexpensive — like Chrysler's K cars — that they haven't all been used up yet.
READ MORE HERE:
http://www.ctnow.com/ontheroad/sc-cons-0112-autocover-80s-cars-20120114,0,281692,full.story
Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic
* roadsNwheels + CapriceClassicForum = http://rdwhl-capriceclassic.proboards.com/ *
* rNwJumpStartCruzNite | 5:30-10:30p; SAT, 05/12/12 | BeefVilla, 1225 W Spring St, S Elgin IL *
"Those dreams move on if you wait too long" __ Billy Ray Cyrus __ 'Could've Been Me'
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Dave,
Can't help you with an update, but LOVE those 2 pictures! Thank you for sharing them.
Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic
CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort
* rNwJumpStartCruzNite | 5:30-10:30p; SAT, 05/12/12 | BeefVilla, 1225 W Spring St, S Elgin IL *
"There's no better time than today" __ 9 Days __ 'Good Friend'
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I hope it was a great celebration!
*grins*
It was, thank you!
*
WHAT A NIGHT!
Party was a blast; thanks to all who attended to celebrate & have a great evening!
PICTURES ... last 13 are of the POST-SURGERY PARTY:
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2636895683885.2152619.1300282613&type=1&l=7f835748ff
NEXT UP...
...Find a new job (unemployed as of 02/23/2012)
...possible visit w/electrophysiologist at Northwestern (based on 24-hr Holter Monitor results)
Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic
* rNwJumpStartCruzNite | 5:30-10:30p; SAT, 05/12/12 | BeefVilla, 1225 W Spring St, S Elgin IL *
"If you fall, I will catch you" __ Cindy Lauper __ 'Time After Time'
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*
I haven't posted in a while because I had been back to work full-time & just didn't have the time to "keep up", get enough rest/sleep, remain in Cardiac Rehab, among other responsibilities. But, now, as of 02/23/2012, less than 3 weeks after returning to full-time work after my 11/11/2011 open heart surgery, I find myself ... unemployed.
To say I'm stunned/numb is just the tip of the iceberg. I've already started the process of "scaling back" financially (including dropping some sponsorships & donations), have applied for unemployment, & started the process of looking for a new job. The last time this happened (April 2005, due to the Sears/Kmart merger), I wasn't anxious because I received a severance package. This time, though, no such severance package and a few more expenses, mainly medical bills.
But, it's not all bad, with increased "Nephew Time", the ability to do Cardiac Rehab 3 times a week for the full 60 minutes (as opposed to Cardiac Rehab 2 times a week for 30-40 minutes only), finishing the process of going through my rooms (sorting through files, re-arranging things, determining what I don't need/want anymore, etc.), &, of course, writing (posting a new round of writings in another topic). While road trips are on indefinite hold, I am thinking of making a weekend-style trip or 2, just to clear my head & relax a bit. We'll see if I can "justify" that expense.
I've NO idea what the future has in store, financially, career-wise, road trips, etc., but I'm doing my best to maintain a positive attitude and look forward to whatever comes my way now, even with having to determine if more heart issues have developed for me. I still may not post much, but I will check in when I can.
Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic
CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort
* roadsNwheels + CapriceClassicForum = http://rdwhl-capriceclassic.proboards.com/ *
"The warning signs are like flares in the night" __ DC Talk __ 'The Hardway'
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Awe, thanks, Becky ... much appreciated! Sure hope to meet you in person someday.
*
THIS CELEBRATION IS ALMOST HERE, 02/11/2012!
Right in the middle of CHD Awareness Week (02/07-14/2012), this'll be a great way to end my 1st week back to full-time work, which starts Monday, 02/06/2012. I'll have less "free" time, but I have to continue Cardiac Rehab & find time for projects I didn't have the energy to do while recovering at home. IRONY ROCKS.
2012 marks the 35th anniversary of my November 1977 (1st) open heart surgery & the 25th anniversary of my March 1987 (2nd) open heart surgery.
SPECIALS
Just like the Pre-Surgery Party, discounts will be offered.
WHY BEEF VILLA?
I enjoy the place.
I know the people that work there from the Saturday cruise nights.
They did a great job for the Pre-Surgery Party.
It's supporting a LOCAL business.
Not many places accommodate "come'n'go" parties.
Possible "CRUISE NIGHT ROADS'n'WHEELS JUMP START" party, 05/12/2012 ... 6 months after my 11/11/2011 OHS. Details TBA.
Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic
CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort
"You'll be doing fine when the music starts" __ El Debarge __ 'Rhythm Of The Night'
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Just something about the "roads'n'wheels"....
MY CAR FAMILY
Some additional inverted pics you may not have seen....
1972 MC reflected in 1976 MC:
http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort/mc1972/72MC1007_14_JPG.html'>http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort/mc1972/72MC1007_14_JPG.html
1972 & 1979 MCs in 1981 MC's mirror:
http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort/mc1981/81MC1007_06_JPG.html
1979 MC w/1976 MC through the window:
http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort/mc1979/79MC1007_07_JPG.html
ROUTE 66 STORY, _THAT'S THE HIGHWAY_, CHAPTERS
1-4, Potential Sale; Arriving; Goodbye; Preparation:
http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/03/29/_thats-the-highway_/
5-8, The Letter; An Idea; A Return; Research & A Test:
http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/03/31/_thats-the-highway_-2/
9, The Drive & A Revelation:
http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/04/03/_thats-the-highway_-3/
10, Stall Tactic:
http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/04/06/_thats-the-highway_-4/
11-12, To Make Connections; Plans Verbalized:
http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/04/19/_thats-the-highway_-5/
13, Road Trip Rush:
http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/05/12/_thats-the-highway_-7/
14, Late Night & A Whistle:
http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/05/12/_thats-the-highway_-8/
15, Awakening:
http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/05/25/_thats-the-highway_-9/
16, Train & Memories:
http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/05/25/_thats-the-highway_-10/
17, Shopkeeper:
http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/06/21/_thats-the-highway_-6/
18-19, An Answer; Return Visit:
http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/08/11/_thats-the-highway_-12/
20, The Picture:
http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/10/17/_thats-the-highway_-11/
21, Shaping History:
http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/10/31/_thats-the-highway_-13/
22-23, Rebuilding Idea; Planning Stage:
http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/12/09/_thats-the-highway_-14/
24, Surprise Meeting:
http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/12/16/_thats-the-highway_-15/
25, A Long Meeting & A Visitor:
http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2012/01/24/_thats-the-highway_-16/
Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic
CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort
* post-surgeryPARTY = 5:30p-10:30p, SAT, 02/11/12 | Beef Villa, 1225 W Spring St, S Elgin IL *
"So i'll drive" __ Zac Brown Band __ 'Highway 20 Ride'
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The photos of the New Mexico sand dunes and skies are beyond anything I have seen before...breathtaking! I thought at first they we somehow composites, but a closer look told me they were reality, but what a reality!
Folks who read this just have to go to your site for today's images.
I agree whole-heartily with Dave on this. Simply put (to quote a famous broadcaster) ... Holy Cow!
Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic
* post-surgeryPARTY = 5:30p-10:30p, SAT, 02/11/12 | Beef Villa, 1225 W Spring St, S Elgin IL *
"There's so much in life" __ Night Ranger __ 'Sister Christian'
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VERY cool! I'll be interested to learn more about the festival. I drive through Hamlet all the time on US 30. Small world.
Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic
* post-surgeryPARTY = 5:30p-10:30p, SAT, 02/11/12 | Beef Villa, 1225 W Spring St, S Elgin IL *
"Wake me up inside" __ Evanescence __ 'Bring Me To Life'
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*
Under the influence of drugs after my recent open heart surgery, I dreamt about, what else, the auto enthusiast's best movie/TV show! How'd it be if all "starring" vehicles (& pavements) were actually together in ONE feature!
ROADS:
Route 66
Lincoln Highway
US 20
US 101
I-95
I-90
various backroads
Others?
WHEELS:
General Lee
Boss Hogg's convertible
Herbie
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang
KITT
KARR
Jim Rockford's Firebird Esprit
Rocky's pickup
Starsky & Hutch's Torino
A-Team's Vandura
Kojak's Century
Ghost Buster's ambulance
Steve's Mercury
Danny's Camaro
Magnum's Ferrari
Nash Bridge's Barracuda
The Batmobile (Lincoln Futura)
Lightning McQueen
Sally (Porsche)
Tow Mater
Sheriff (1949 Merc)
Flo
Ramone
Fillmore
Sarge
Doc Hudson
Lizzie
Mack
The King (1970 Superbird)
Mrs. The King (1974 Town & Country station wagon)
Tex Dinaco (1975 Coupe de Ville)
Brent Mustangberger
Bob Cutlass
Darrell Cartrip (1976/7 MC)
Training Day's 1979 MC
Back To The Future's Delorean
Blues Brothers' Monaco
The Bandit's Firebird Trans Am
Steve McQueen's Mustang
Christine (Fury)
Foreman's Vista Cruiser
Supernatural's 1967 Impala
Tony M's van
Al Bundy's Dodge
Route 66's Corvette
Others?
Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic
CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort
* post-surgeryPARTY = 5:30p-10:30p, SAT, 02/11/12 | Beef Villa, 1225 W Spring St, S Elgin IL *
"Can you lend me your Cadillac?" __ The Jukes __ 'Trickle Trickle'
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*
PARTY
Who all is IN for the celebration at Beef Villa?
ALSO ... CURIOUS:
Anyone interested in attending the Chicago Auto Show during the day?
~9a ... leave Elgin IL area
~3p ... leave Chicago to be back before 5:30p
Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic
CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort
"It's not the car I want" __ George Jones __ 'The Corvette Song'
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*
I've finally written a bit more....
FAMILY OF CARS
Article opening...
Pictures may be worth a thousand words, but they don’t share the complete tale. And, the complete tale might be a bit wordy, so a brief “Reader’s Digest” version….1973. The newly-redesigned Monte Carlo was named Motor Trend Car Of The Year … and I was born. Coincidence? Fate? Ironic twist?
...the rest of the story (AND pictures!), here:
http://www.motorgnomes.com/2012/01/pictures-a-family-of-cars/
ROUTE 66 STORY
Chapter #25, 'A Long Meeting & A Visitor', is complete:
http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2012/01/24/_thats-the-highway_-16/
Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic
CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort
* post-surgeryPARTY = 5:30p-10:30p, SAT, 02/11/12 | Beef Villa, 1225 W Spring St, S Elgin IL *
"My heart takes off on a high speed chase" __ Lifehouse __ 'Falling In'
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9/6/12 in Greenville it is!
Sweet!
If we haven't connected before then (or even if we have), Columbus 9/12 dinner at Roadhouse 66?
That sounds awesome! I had planned to stop at Roadhouse, so it'll be cool to meet you there!
And... I keep an MP3 copy of Movin' Right Along in the car at all times.Nice! I need to get that, too.....
Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic
* post-surgeryPARTY = 5:30p-10:30p, SAT, 02/11/12 | Beef Villa, 1225 W Spring St, S Elgin IL *
"Ever been to Texas?" __ Conway Twitty __ 'Saturday Night Special'
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*
So ... anyone else notice that the NFL's NFC Championship game (NY Giants at SF 49ers), Sunday, 01/22/2012, was a battle between terminal cities of the Lincoln Highway?
Interestingly ... MLB's Giants moved across the LH from NY to SF.
Route 66 also boasts connections to sports franchises in Chicago, St Louis & LA....
In terms of team colors, I can only think of 1 city that has at least 3 major sports teams with the same basic 3 colors:
Pittsburgh...
...black, white, yellow/gold
...Pirates (MLB)
...Steelers (NFL)
...Penguins (NHL)
Chicago is one city that comes close, with 2 teams sporting the same 3 colors...
...black, white, red
...Bulls (NBA)
...Blackhawks (NHL)
Others?
Several cities have teams with "related" names...
...Chicago Cubs (MLB), Bears (NFL)
...Denver Rockies (MLB), Avalanche (NHL), Rapids (MLS)
...Detroit Tigers (MLB), Lions (NFL)
...Indianapolis Colts (NFL), Pacers (NBA)
...Miami Marlins (MLB), Dolphins (NFL)
...Philadelphia Eagles (NFL), Flyers (NHL)
...Seattle Mariners (MLB), Seahawks (NFL)
Others?
Team names associated with the history/story of the city/state include...
...Chicago Fire (MLS)
...Colorado Rockies (MLB)
...Dallas Cowbows (NFL)
...Detroit Pistons (NBA)
...Houston Astros (MLB)
...Miami Dolphins (NFL)
...Miami Heat (NBA)
...Milwaukee Brewers (MLB)
...Minnesota Twins (MLB)
...New England Patriots (NFL)
...New Jersey Devils (NHL)
...NY Islanders (NHL)
...NY Yankees (MLB)
...Orlando Magic (NBA)
...Philadelphia Union (MLS)
...Pittsburgh Steelers (NFL)
...St Louis Blues (NHL)
...San Francisco 49ers (NFL)
...Texas Rangers (MLB)
...Washington Capitols (NHL)
...Washington Nationals (MLB)
...Washington Senators (MLB)
Others?
Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic
CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort
* post-surgeryPARTY = 5:30p-10:30p, SAT, 02/11/12 | Beef Villa, 1225 W Spring St, S Elgin IL *
"Can't you feel there's something wrong?" __ Zero Ground __ 'Oklahoma Mournings'
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Sounds like a great trip Cort.
Thanks, I sure hope so! I plan to see a lot of family and friends again this year!
Day 1 - I know you probably have diet restrictions but if it were me, my first day would end at Ted Drewe's in St. Louis with a Big Apple Concrete.
Not too many diet restrictions, so a stop at TD's IS planned, with some Route 66 friends of mine who live in STL. Will most-likely spend the night at their house, too. Last time I was at TD's (late June 2011), I had the "Cardinal Sin" Concrete.....
*grins devilishly*
Day 6 - Greenville, SC is getting pretty close to my house. Maybe we could arrange to meet there for lunch.AWESOME! I will be stopping in that area to see friends, so perhaps we could all meet for lunch...? It'd be great to meet you! I'm posting approx times below....
Day 14 - Make sure you have your jacket packed for Traverse City!Heh ... I know. I wish I could've done this trip in the summer, but it'll be OK
.*
I need to STOP looking at cars for sale....
POST-SURGERY PARTY
This is scheduled, for a week later ... ~5:30p-10:30p, SATURDAY, 02/11/2012.
I posted a thread here:
http://americanroadmagazine.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=1744
2012 ROAD TRIP PROJECTED TIMES/ROUTES
SAT, 09/01/2012
~8a leave Elgin
~noon arrive central/Decatur IL
~2p leave central/Decatur IL
~6p arrive STL MO (after stops along Route 66)
VIA ... IL RT 64 W ... I-39 S ... I-55/rt 66 SW
SUN, 09/02/2012
~7a leave STL MO
~2p arrive Little Rock AR
~3p leave LR AR
~6p arrive Memphis TN
~8p leave Memphis TN
~10p arrive Jackson TN
VIA ... I-55/rt66 SW ... I-40 W ... I-40 E
MON, 09/03/2012
~10a leave Jackson TN
~noon arrive Big Sandy TN
~2p leave Big Sandy TN
~4p arrive Nashville TN
~6p leave Nashville TN
~9p arrive Birmingham AL
VIA ... I-40 E ... US-641 N ... US-641 S ... I-40 E ... I-65 S
TUE, 09/04/2012
~11a leave Birmingham AL
~5p arrive Tallahassee FL
VIA ... I-65 S ... US-231 S ... I-10 E
WED, 09/05/2012
~6a leave Tallahassee FL
~11a arrive Orlando FL
~1p leave Orlando FL
~9p arrive Atlanta GA
VIA ... I-10 E ... I-75 S ... SR-50 E ... SR-50 W ... I-75 N
THU, 09/06/2012
~8a leave Atlanta GA
~11a arrive Greenville SC
~1p leave Greenville SC
~3p arrive Charlotte NC
~7p leave Charlotte NC
~midnight arrive Bridgewater VA
VIA ... I-85 N ... I-77 N ... I-81 N
FRI, 09/07/2012 ... Bridgewater VA area
SAT, 09/08/2012
~7a leave Bridgewater VA
~11a arrive Alexandria VA
~2p leave Alexandria VA
~4p arrive Baltimore MD
~8p leave Baltimore MD
~11p arrive Philadelphia PA
VIA ... I-81 N ... I-66 E ... I-95 N
SUN, 09/09/2012 ... Philadelphia PA/NJ/NY areas
MON, 09/10/2012
~8a leave Philadelphia PA
~noon arrive Binghamton NY
~1p leave Binghamton NY
~5p arrive Buffalo NY
VIA ... 76 W ... I-81 N ... I-90 W
TUE, 09/11/2012
~9a leave Buffalo NY
~3p arrive Holsopple PA
~7p leave Holsopple PA
~9p arrive Pittsburgh PA
VIA ... US-219 S ... I-76 W
WED, 09/12/2012
~8a leave Pittsburgh PA
~11a arrive Akron OH
~1p leave Akron OH
~5p arrive Columbus OH
VIA ... I-76 W ... I-77 S ... US-30 W ... I-71 S
THU, 09/13/2012
~8a leave Columbus OH
~11a arrive Indianapolis IN
~1p leave Indianapolis IN
~4p arrive Fort Wayne IN
~7p leave Fort Wayne IN
~10p arrive Detroit MI
VIA ... I-70 W ... I-69 N ... I-94 E
FRI, 09/14/2012
~10a leave Detroit MI
~4p arrive Traverse City MI
VIA ... I-75 N
SAT, 09/15/2012
~8a leave Traverse City MI
~4p arrive Elgin IL
VIA ... US-131 S ... I-196 S ... I-94 W ... I-294 W ... I-290 W ... US-20 W
PRIOR ROAD TRIPS
10/2004, WEST:
http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort/roadtrips/0410/0410.html
08/2005, EAST:
http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort/roadtrips/0508/0508.html
10/2006, WEST:
http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort/roadtrips/1106/1106.html
11/2007, SOUTHEAST:
http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort/roadtrips/200711/200711.html
08/2008, EAST:
http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort/roadtrips/200808/2008rt.html
09/2009, SOUTHWEST:
DeKalb IL (LH) to Pontiac IL (Rt 66) to Springfield IL:
http://picasaweb.google.com/knightfan26917/RT66TRIPDAY1#slideshow/5427141662526110530
Springfield IL to St Louis MO:
http://picasaweb.google.com/knightfan26917/RT66TRIPDAY2#slideshow/5427153871443919250
Stanton MO to Joplin MO:
http://picasaweb.google.com/knightfan26917/RT66TRIPDAY3#slideshow/5427439268824317586
Joplin MO to Tulsa OK:
http://picasaweb.google.com/knightfan26917/RT66TRIPDAY4#slideshow/5427862154662426722
Tulsa OK to Clinton OK:
http://picasaweb.google.com/knightfan26917/RT66TRIPDAY5#slideshow/5428251162202783314
Clinton OK to Amarillo TX:
http://picasaweb.google.com/knightfan26917/RT66TRIPDAY6#slideshow/5428260359643080226
Amarillo TX to Moriarty NM:
http://picasaweb.google.com/knightfan26917/RT66TRIPDAY7#slideshow/5428654625398731538
Moriarty NM to Holbrook AZ:
http://picasaweb.google.com/knightfan26917/RT66TRIPDAY8#slideshow/5428980552494890642
Holbrook AZ to Williams AZ:
http://picasaweb.google.com/knightfan26917/RT66TRIPDAY9#slideshow/5429002721353620370
Williams AZ to Kingman AZ:
http://picasaweb.google.com/knightfan26917/RT66TRIPDAY10#slideshow/5429395440355434498
Kingman AZ to Barstow CA:
http://picasaweb.google.com/knightfan26917/RT66TRIPDAY11#slideshow/5430380559414678786
Barstow CA to Rialto/San Bernardino CA:
http://picasaweb.google.com/knightfan26917/RT66TRIPDAY12#slideshow/5431220758934833330
Rialto/San Bernardino CA to Albuquerque NM:
http://picasaweb.google.com/knightfan26917/RT66TRIPDAY13#slideshow/5431255586450476482
Albuquerque NM (Rt 66) to Kearney NE (LH)...:
http://picasaweb.google.com/knightfan26917/RT66TRIPDAY14#slideshow/5431261135177047330
Kearney NE (LH) to Elgin IL:
http://picasaweb.google.com/knightfan26917/RT66TRIPDAY15#slideshow/5431272549764120818
11/2009, SOUTH:
http://picasaweb.google.com/knightfan26917/DriveSouthTNAL112709112909#slideshow/5431282615925577026
08/2010, NORTHEAST:
https://picasaweb.google.com/knightfan26917/NorEasterTrekRoadTripWed08042010Sun08152010#
06-07/2011, COAST-COAST/NORTHWEST:
https://picasaweb.google.com/knightfan26917/CoastToCoastRoadTripFri06242011Mon07112011
Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic
* POST-SURGERY PARTY = ~5:30p-10:30p, SAT, 02/11/12; Beef Villa, 1225 W Spring St, S Elgin IL *
"Wouldn't you like to get away?" __ Gary Portnoy __ 'Where Everybody Knows Your Name (Cheers)'
-
*
This is your official invitation to a POST-SURGERY PARTY!
~5:30p-10:30p
SATURDAY
02/11/2012 (3-month anniversary of my 4th OHS, 11/11/2011)
@ Beef Villa
1225 W SPRING ST
S Elgin IL
FB EVENT:
https://www.facebook.com/events/265071626893417/
"EARLY BIRDS" & "LATE OWLS":
We could plan afternoon stuff &/or go elsewhere at 10:30p....
"Too tired to go to sleep" __ Heart __ 'Will You Be There?'
"Like a light in the dark" __ Dan Seals __ 'I Will Be There'
PICTURES FROM THE 10/29/2011 PRE-SURGERY PARTY:
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2636895683885.2152619.1300282613&type=1&l=7f835748ff
CONTACT me via FB...
...or PH:
847-
337-
9897-
...or EM:
faithcubsmc2691
@
aol.com
CARDIAC REHAB
I'm lovin' this ... and it's a great stress reliever! I go MONs, WEDs, FRIs. Not sure what I'll do when I go from 5-hr work days back to full time in early February....
11/11/2011 SURGERY UPDATES FROM MY SISTER:
8:30a1st update: they took Cort just a few minutes ago. He was in really good spirits (wanting to charge for his signature). Mom, Dad and I were in there when the surgical team was in there. The surgeon was very positive. We are heading to get a bite to eat.
9:45a
2nd update: They had a little trouble starting a line into an artery. Surgery began at 9:20.
11:35a
3rd update: Cort is now on the heart/lung machine and all is well.
2:08p
4th update: he wasn't completely on the heart/lung bypass until 12:15 - scar tissue slows down this process. The aortic valve is in place and they are grafting the aortic artery right now. I think the fact that they are grafting is indicative of them needing to connect the artery into the aortic arch, which prolongs the surgery. Things are going well. He will be in surgery for at least two more hours and that is probably when we will get the next update.
3:41p
5th update: he is off heart/lung bypass as of 3:15 and doing well - still a few more hours until they are done. At that time I think the surgeon himself will come talk to us (I hope).
4:51p
6th update: they are closing him up now and Dr. Russell should be coming out to talk to us when they are done
6:43p
7th update (last): The surgeon just left us. He sat with us for a good 30 minutes talking to us about the surgery. Cort should be moved to ICU within the hour.
They did not have to do anything with the aortic arch. the aneurism narrowed before the arch. the doctor used a maize (spelling?) to prevent future arrhythmia problems. his echo after the surgery looked good, and so do all of his numbers. They did not have to touch his pig's valve - everything looked good there. HIs lung function is also doing well, although there was a lot of scarring that adhered to the heart. The doctor used a cover over the conduit to make future heart surgeries a little easier to get in.
he was in surgery for approximately 8 hours. he was on the heart/lung bypass for about 3 hours. the procedure of placing the valve and the artery took about 2 hours and 20 minutes. it was a very large aneurism. the artery now is, and will always be, at 3.6cm.
They are going to wait until morning to wake him - they want him to be still through the night. around 4:30 tomorrow morning they will start to take him off the sedatives and they will try to get him off the ventilator as soon as possible. Eric and I will try to be back here at the hospital around 7:00 so that once he is awake he will see a familiar face (even if he won't remember). Mom and Dad will try to get here by around 10. They probably won't move him to a regular floor until Sunday or Monday.
When this valve does need to be replaced, technology now allows them to replace it through a catheter. Apparently the valve being replaced can stay in place as the new one takes over.
Thank you all for your prayers during this long day.
RETURN TO OR, ~24 HOURS LATER:
11/12 @ 9:08pi tried posting earlier from the road, but it didn't take...Please Pray! around 5:30 this evening i left Cort. While he wasn't completely comfortable, he seemed ok. they had gotten him back into bed (after him sitting up a good portion of the day), and his nurse was watching his oxygen level closely because it was low. his platelet count was also low, even thought they had been giving him platelets since the the surgery. he was bleeding more than they wanted. his nurse was in contact with dr. russell.
as we were leaving the city around 7 (after having dinner with family), i called to check in. Cort's nurse said that he was ok, but that his platelet level was really low, and that he was bleeding too much, and that he had been become unresponsive for a short time. directly afterwards he was alert and communicating again. However, they are taking him back into surgery to find out exactly what is wrong and to clear out the bleeding around the incision site. when i talked to the nurse, he was already intubated.
Mom and Dad are already on their way back to the city, if not already there. The last they talked to Dr. Russell around 8 i think, and he assured them that what is going on is not life threatening. however, it is related to the fact that Cort has had so many surgeries, and that he has had so many blood transfusions.
I came all the way home with Eric and JJ to get JJ into bed tonight. friends are taking me back to the city tonight so that i can stay all night. I am hoping that i can convince mom and dad to go home once Cort is back out of surgery to get some rest...
Please pray for strength and healing for Cort...
11/12 @ 10:19p
The surgery is over already. Cort's platelet count was really low and there was a lot of oozing blood around the incision site - they drained about 3-4 liters from the incision site. They are giving him a special kind of blood to get his numbers up where they should be. He will be on the ventilator overnight again. They will keep him in icu through tomorrow. The Dr said that while this is a setback, he will be OK.
11/13 @ 10:07a
Dr Russell was in to see Cort about a half hour ago. The oozing blood was all from the incision and suture site. His heart and the valves look good. Dr said it is rare for a patient to have an uneventful 24 hours and then go back into surgery, but that Cort is doing Just fine now. They will continue to treat him aggressively for his low platelet count, but so far it appears that his bleeding is under control. Dr said that because of the amount of blood transfusions he has had over the years, his body has built antibodies that attack foreign blood, so it takes more to find blood that his body will accept. He should be coming off the vent in the next hour as long as he makes the effort to take deeper breaths.
11/13 @ 11:46a
I am home now. Mom texted at 11 and said that Cort is off the ventilator. The do have him on an oxygen mask for the humidity to help loosen mucus. he is using a suction tube to help get mucus out. he is communicating well, and seems to be in better spirits. the last time Dr. Russell was in (just before i left), he said that they want to keep him resting in bed all day today. tomorrow they will work on getting him up in the chair.
Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic
CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort
"Sunrise for a stained glass window" __ Adam Brand __ 'Blue Sky Cathedral'
-
On the way home we talked about our plans to take another end-to-end trip on Route 66 this summer. How to get to Chicago has always been the question before. This time it's a no-brainer. Go to US-31W in Cave City and hang a right this time.
Sounds like a plan, Mike. Let me know when you get your schedule/plans set.
As far as your "weekender" ... wow ... sounds great! Had to laugh at your description of your Wigwam experience. 65 still seems a bit cold to me ...
. I'm guessing you didn't stay long in Nashville TN?Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic
CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort
"If by chance you are ever this way look me up" __ John Anderson __ 'Down in Tennessee'
-
Yo, Bro,
Would I have forgotten my commitment to stop the next time I was on the Coast? No way!
*grins*
GOOD!!!!!
Sheila and I had eaten lunch before we got to Florence, but I stopped in the middle of the road and said, "I have to get some photos for a bro" (she didn't know your name, and she asked why I was talking surfer smack
). A pickup behind me took exception to my parking mid lane, but I wasn't to be deterred. The photos follow. Enjoy!
LOL...nice! Hope Sheila doesn't think I'm a crazy nut
. lol But, that's so cool, though, that you did stop and snap a few pics. Awesome! I can imagine the guy behind you wasn't too thrilled about your choice of parking spot, but dang ... I think you got better interior pictures than I did! Mine were more up close, since I parked in their parking lot, but, I didn't get any from a distance like you did. I THOUGHT about crossing the street, but the time I arrived was right around "rush/dinner" time, and I didn't feel like attempting to dodge traffic. Thanks for taking and sharing the pics, Dave!!!!Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic
CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort
"I hope you remember me" __ Our Lady Peace __ 'Somewhere Out There'
-
*
"Kid" movies/shows that have adult themes (or vice versa) ... GO!
Kermit & Rowlf singing about women ... "I Hope That Something Better Comes Along":
[My favorite song from that 1979 Muppet Movie is one of the related videos on the right-hand-side list ... Kermit & Fozzie singing "Movin' Right Along".]
Scenes from the original CARS movie ... "Real Gone":
Golden Girls ... choose just about ANY scene from that TV show. As a kid, I was allowed to watch it ... but seeing it now as an adult, I'm a bit surprised. The writing and acting on that show was superb, at least in terms of disguising some of the adult themes....
Others?
Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic
* POST-SURGERY PARTY = ~5:30p-10:30p, SAT, 02/11/12; Beef Villa, 1225 W Spring St, S Elgin IL *
"Going down that highway, heading out of sight" __ McAlister Kemp __ 'White Line'
-
I noted you've got quite the list of milestones. We're so happy to hear that things seem to be going well with your recovery. We're hoping 2012 is a great year for everyone!
That'd be nice ... and thank you! It's good to finally start feeling energy to DO things! Now, to find a new job would be awesome...LOL!
Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic
CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort
"It's hard to slow this swinger down" __ Eric Heatherly __ 'Flowers On The Wall'
-
*
After my 11/11/2011 open heart surgery, I drove for the first time, 12/15/2011. I had a rush of excitement when I pulled my 1979 Caprice Classic out of the garage, where it had been with my 5 MCs. As I drove down the road, my thoughts turned to other cars, particularly ones I'd love to purchase...
...mid-late 1970s LTD/Thunderbird
...1975 Caprice Classic convertible
...1976 Caprice Classic sedan
...1989 Caprice Classic sedan
...1987 MC SS Aerocoupe
...2011 Dodge Charger
...& too many others....
Then, during that same drive, I wondered what it'd be like to have KITT, KARR, Herbie, the General Lee, Jim Rockford's Pontiac, Starsky & Hutch's Torino, & a host of other "starring" vehicles ALL in the SAME television show or movie.... I blame it on the drugs.
What I DO NOT blame on the drugs are thoughts for a POTENTIAL "Post-Surgery Party", a return to hosting my CD SHOWCASE radio show, & my 2012 road trip, fueled in part, by finding this ... Kermit & Fozzie in the 1979 Muppet Movie, Movin' Right Along....
*sighs*
If only I could figure out a way to be on the radio &/or "on the road" 24/7/365...!
POST-SURGERY PARTY
I'm not sure if I'm going to throw a party to celebrate. I had a blast at the Pre-Surgery Party, but that was before "winter".
IF I do this, it'll probably be SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2012. Who would be IN?
RADIO WAVES
I'm looking into hosting regular versions of my radio show, CD SHOWCASE.
Are you interested in supporting it by becoming a business FEATURED on the RADIO SHOPPING SHOW? If so, please contact me for details:
wrmnshowcase
@
aol.com
Brian, Atlanta GA:
"Cort's CD Showcase is what radio SHOULD be!"
2012 ROAD TRIP
I lost 5 of my 15 vacation days due to my 11/11/2011 OHS, so it'll be a shorter journey.... IF it works out, I will follow the ROUGH schedule/outline below, arriving home before the LAST birthday of my 30s.
Any thoughts/suggestions about the schedule or route? Want to meet up along the way? Let me know, please!
Day 1, Saturday, 09/01/2012:
Elgin IL
central/Decatur IL
St Louis MO
Day 2, Sunday, 09/02/2012:
St Louis MO
Little Rock AR
Memphis TN
Jackson TN
Day 3, Monday, 09/03/2012:
Jackson TN
Big Sandy TN
Nashville TN
Birmingham AL
Day 4, Tuesday, 09/04/2012:
Birmingham AL
Tallahassee FL
Day 5, Wednesday, 09/05/2012:
Tallahassee FL
Orlando FL
Atlanta GA
Day 6, Thursday, 09/06/2012:
Atlanta GA
Greenville SC
Charlotte NC
Bridgewater VA
Day 7, Friday, 09/07/2012:
Bridgewater VA area
Day 8, Saturday, 09/08/2012:
Bridgewater VA
Alexandria VA
Baltimore MD
Philadelphia PA/NJ/NY
Day 9, Sunday, 09/09/2012:
Philadelphia PA/NJ/NY areas
Day 10, Monday, 09/10/2012:
Philadelphia PA
Binghamton NY
Buffalo NY area
Day 11, Tuesday, 09/11/2012:
Buffalo NY
Holsopple PA
Pittsburgh PA
Day 12, Wednesday, 09/12/2012:
Pittsburgh PA
Akron OH
Columbus OH
Day 13, Thursday, 09/13/2012:
Columbus OH
Indianapolis IN
Fort Wayne IN
Detroit MI
Day 14, Friday, 09/14/2012:
Detroit MI
Traverse City MI
Day 15, Saturday, 09/15/2012:
Traverse City MI
Elgin IL
Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic
CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort
"Getting there is half the fun" __ The Muppets, Kermit & Fozzie __ 'Movin' Right Along'
-
Hey Becky,
That's AWESOME! 10 years is quite an anniversary!
*
ADDITIONAL 2012 SNAPSHOTS
...CARDIAC REHAB:
I started this the same day I returned to work, 01/06/2012 (the 9th anniversary of my 3rd open heart surgery). So far, I like CR. The staff at the center seemed impressed with what I accomplished just the 1st day; it seems to be a nice stress reliever, definitely needed due to work issues.
...BOARD & GROUP:
As owner, I'm renewing efforts to keep 1 Monte Carlo-specific board (3rd generation) & 1 MC-specific group (6th gen) alive....
...WRITINGS:
I will continue w/Motor Gnomes...
...and my Route 66 story, as well as a few other "projects"!
_THAT'S THE HIGHWAY_ chapters in order...
1-4, Potential Sale; Arriving; Goodbye; Preparation:
http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/03/29/_thats-the-highway_/
5-8, The Letter; An Idea; A Return; Research & A Test:
http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/03/31/_thats-the-highway_-2/
9, The Drive & A Revelation:
http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/04/03/_thats-the-highway_-3/
10, Stall Tactic:
http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/04/06/_thats-the-highway_-4/
11-12, To Make Connections; Plans Verbalized:
http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/04/19/_thats-the-highway_-5/
13, Road Trip Rush:
http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/05/12/_thats-the-highway_-7/
14, Late Night & A Whistle:
http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/05/12/_thats-the-highway_-8/
15, Awakening:
http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/05/25/_thats-the-highway_-9/
16, Train & Memories:
http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/05/25/_thats-the-highway_-10/
17, Shopkeeper:
http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/06/21/_thats-the-highway_-6/
18-19, An Answer; Return Visit:
http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/08/11/_thats-the-highway_-12/
20, The Picture:
http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/10/17/_thats-the-highway_-11/
21, Shaping History:
http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/10/31/_thats-the-highway_-13/
22-23, Rebuilding Idea; Planning Stage:
http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/12/09/_thats-the-highway_-14/
24, Surprise Meeting:
http://whenthegoingisgood.com/2011/12/16/_thats-the-highway_-15/
Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic
CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort
"Get out there and find someone" __ Good Charlotte __ 'I Don't Want To Be In Love'
-
All is a bit overwhelming when I think of so many taking a week off or maybe two, barely enough time to taste what the Road offers. It is overwhelming to feel as we have just left and yet such time has passed on. It does not seem time means anything anymore, only the "moment" does, "now".
Amen.
Unfortunately, I'm one of the ones that only has ~2 weeks to take off for a road trip. Not enough time, by a long shot, but I make do as much as possible.
Awesome pic with this latest entry, too.
Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic
CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort
"Put off today what you can do tomorrow, sometimes you don't do the thing" __ Diamond Rio __ 'In A Week Or 2'
-
(The largest town on the entire 400 miles of 101 in Oregon is Coos Bay with a population of 15, 400.)
And, another slight piece of trivia about Coos Bay ... it is one of a few towns mentioned in Ray Stevens' 'The Haircut' song.
BTW, did you happen to stop at the Bliss Diner in Florence OR?
Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic
CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort
"Nothing could be finer" __ Girls Next Door __ 'Slow Boat To China'
-
Sounds like an awesome way to spend the weekend, Mike. ENJOY!
And ... Nashville is my favorite city, with the Nashville/Big Sandy/Jackson TN triangle along I-40 being my favorite area of the US.
Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic
CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort
"Let's make our escape" __ Creed __ 'Higher'
05/12/2012, Jump Start Cruise Night ... Party!
in General
Posted
*
SPRING is just around the corner ... right?!
The TwentyTwelve CRUISE NIGHT SEASON starts in less than 3 months!
[2012 marks the 35th anniversary of my November 1977 (1st) open heart surgery & the 25th anniversary of my March 1987 (2nd) OHS.]
INTRODUCING ... ROADS'n'WHEELS CAR CLUB:
http://rdwhl-capriceclassic.proboards.com/
JUMP START CRUISE NIGHT ... PARTY!
(a kick-off celebration to 2012 Saturday Cruise Nights, open to ALL makes/models/years)
More details, including my contact info, here:
http://rdwhl-capriceclassic.proboards.com/index.cgi?board=whatsgoingon&action=display&thread=6
PICTURES...10/29/2011 PreSurgery & 02/11/2012 PostSurgery Parties:
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2636895683885.2152619.1300282613&type=1&l=7f835748ff
PICTURES...2011 Cruise Nights:
https://picasaweb.google.com/knightfan26917/2011CruiseNights
Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic
CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort
"You let your mind out somewhere down the road" __ Electric Light Orchestra __ 'Don't Bring Me Down'