Living the Dream! PSCLC Members Cruise to the High Museum to Take in All Those Dream-Y Designs

Get a Cushhhhier Cadillac Ride with a “Fatter Sway Bar” - Find out MORE on page 17! The

Issuetailfin 20 • August 2014 www.peachstateclc.com

Living the Dream! PSCLC members cruise to the High Museum to take in all those Dream-y designs.

PG. 9

ROAD RALLY & CANTON CRUISE-IN JOIN US FOR A BILTMORE CHRISTMAS

PG. 21 PG. 25

THE TAILFIN is a publication of Peach State CLC, a region of the Cadillac and LaSalle Club, Inc., and is distributed to its members. Prerequisite for membership in Peach State CLC is current or pending membership in the national club. Member costs are $25 a year for Peach State CLC. The CLC, Inc. dues categories may be found at: http;//www.cadillaclasalleclub.org/ P e a c h S t a t e C a d i l l a c & L a S a l l e C l u b S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 4 Contents We’re excited that our Peach State web- Classics at the Crossing site has been honored with a regional 5 Merit Award! Check out our site at: The Southeastern Railway Museum http://peachstateclc.com/ in Duluth is seeking out our Cadillacs for its upcoming Sept. 13th event. President Doug Bailey 770-992-8394 H 7 GA Mountain Jubilee [email protected] Live music, great food, arts and crafts [email protected] AND a classic car show! Register now Vice President for your chance to win a trophy Kevin Garrison 706-207-1550 in October! Volunteers also needed. [email protected] Corresponding Secretary Martina Butler 9 Dream Cars Recap 678-461-6343 H Big crowd and great lineup at the High! 678-643-0187 C Check out all the details about the [email protected] event and observations on the Dream Cars. Membership Director Cecil “Buster” Miller 706-517-0601 H 19 My 1962 Cadillac 706-264-9558 W Memory fading about what made [email protected] 1962 a very unique year. Read Doug Treasurer Birk’s story about the changing times Sandy Partridge and why this car is so special. 770-528-9636 H [email protected] Activities Directors Peach State Road Rally Tom and Linda Di Nucci 21 678-880-4345 H AND Canton Cruise-in details 770-479-9328 C from your ace reporter, Doug Bailey. [email protected] Communications Director Annette Benneche [email protected] National Board Director Martina Butler TAILFIN Editors Bill Rush [email protected] Sandy Barth [email protected] Webmaster Lewis Schwartz [email protected] 2 P e a c h S t a t e C a d i l l a c & L a S a l l e C l u b S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 4

Calendar Mark your calendars! Check the web site for details or call Tom Di Nucci. SEPTEMBER Membership in the national club is required. The Cadillac & LaSalle Club pays for insurance to cover regions like ours 5th from 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM Cruise-in Friday, on the square Canton, during sanctioned events. CLC also offers downtown. Get there early for a good space, and stay for a sandwich. one of the best glossy monthly 13th: Coker’s collection in Chattanooga; 10 AM to 4 PM. collector auto magazines anywhere, 13th: Car Show on Canton Square 6-10 PM fund raiser for Tom’s ill friend. The Self Starter. 13th: Car Show in Duluth’s Railroad Museum: 9:30 AM to 2:00 PM. CLC provides an online forum for parts 20th - Cruise-in: Po Boys at Riverstone Mall searches and technical support. And 27th - Corinth Baptist Car Show - 3156 Langley Road, Loganville, GA membership is required if you ever want to www.corinthcarshow.com join us for a Grand National in various parts of the U.S. Dues for the national club are OCTOBER $55.00 per year through December 2013 for first class mailings of The Self Starter. 5th - Brunch at Sugar Magnolia and Sunday in the Park at Oakland Cemetery This first-class fee also gets you immediate access to the online version of the magazine 11th - GA Mountain Jubilee in Clayton. Sign up! Jeff Butler coordinates if you live within the U.S. (You can receive (still need volunteers) the second class mailing of The Self Starter 25th - Marist HS Homecoming car show; 9:00 to 1:00 PM for $40.00 per year, but without internet access; it will arrive a few days later. This is a NOVEMBER popular option, unless you need immediate access to those parts and auto sale listings!) 8th - Veteran’s Day Parade (details coming) 15th - Members Appreciation Picnic? (details pending) Please visit http://store.cadillaclasalleclub. org/category_s/1819.htm for an DECEMBER immediate on-line application using VISA, MC, Discover or PayPal. Or, you can print and send a paper application to: 5th - 7th - Fall Driving Tour Ashville N.C., Biltmore tour with Cadillac-LaSalle Club, Inc. the Allante Club - reservations required P.O. Box 360835 6th - Fayetteville Christmas Parade - 5 PM (details coming) Columbus, Ohio 43236-0835 13th - Christmas Banquet at Atlanta Country Club (details coming) Please advise Buster Miller, Peach State CLC Membership Director, as soon as you receive your new CLC member number! 3 P e a c h S t a t e C a d i l l a c & L a S a l l e C l u b S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 4

Calendar Extras! Cruise-in Friday, Sept. 5, 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM Car Show Saturday, Sept. 27: Corinth Baptist First Friday, on the square Canton, downtown. Church, 3156 Langley Road, Loganville, GA 30052. Get there early for a good space, and stay for a There will be prizes for the top three Cadillacs in sandwich. addition to the Best in Show and classes trophies and Top Ten trophies. Bill Greene has hosted us in Coker’s Cruise-in downtown Chattanooga, TN past years but will be in Indiana this year. Go to the Sat. Sept. 13. A group MAY go together, so if you site http://corinthcarshow.com/car-show-details. want to go, please let Tom Di Nucci know you’re in. html Mark McDermott will coordinate. He will organize a rallying spot along I-75 northbound. He’s copied above. Mark your calendars for Sunday in the Park, October 5th. Do NOT miss this event! Josie and Car Show and Fund Raiser Sat. Sept. 13, 6:00 PM Debi Starnes will once again host us for a fabulous to 10:00 PM for Tom Di Nucci’s friend, who is brunch at Sugar Magnolia bed & breakfast, then we battling serious illness. Downtown Canton will caravan over to Oakland Cemetery for the fall’s (same place as First Friday cruise-in). first major car show. Peoples’ Choice awards, and early dinner at one of the restaurants across the Classic Car Show Saturday, Sept. 13, 9:30 AM street. Details pending. http://www.oaklandceme- to 5:00 PM, Duluth’s Southeastern Railway tery.com/?event=sunday-in-the-park-2014 Museum. Check it out Southeastern Railway Doug and Tom www.srmduluth.org/ See registration form on next page ($8.00 pre-registered, $10.00 day of show, The Christmas parade in Fayetteville is on and $5/person for passengers). Entry fee gets you Saturday, December 6th! Downtown Christmas access to the museum and a train ride. Questions? Parade/Tree Lighting and Free Carriage Rides with Call Joanie Archer, Southeastern Railway Santa Saturday, December 6 Museum Duluth GA. 770-363-6133. • Parade at 5:00 p.m. • Tree Lighting festivities starts at 6:00 p.m. Cruise-in Saturday, Sept. 20: 4 til dark. Po Boys at • Carriage Rides with Santa - 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Riverstone Mall in Canton. Heritage Park at the “Lane Brown Gazebo”

More photos of 2014 GN: Thanks to Martina Butler, Jack McClow, Tom McQueen and Bob Norrid for submitting photos from the 2014 CLC Grand National in Lake George, NY. I have gone through all of them and have posted the best of the best. Click the link below to see the 180+ photos that have been posted on our website. http://www.clcpotomacregion.org/2014grandnational.htm Enjoy! — Vince 4 P e a c h S t a t e C a d i l l a c & L a S a l l e C l u b S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 4

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Car #:

Class: October 11, 2014 • Ramey Blvd., Clayton, Georgia

REGISTRATION FORM

Name ______Pre registration $20 per car Street Address______(must be received by October 4,2014);

City, State, Zip______$25 per car day of the show Email ______Make checks payable to: Phone ______Georgia Mountain Jubilee Car # 1: Mail form with check to: • Year______Jeff Butler, Car show coordinator 1156 Ramey Road • Make ______Lakemont, GA 30552 • Model______For more information contact Jeff Butler Car # 2: at 706-782-9294 • Year______• Make______• Model______

RELEASE OF LIABILITY THE UNDERSIGNED HEREBY RELEASES,WAIVES,DISCHARGES AND COVENANTS NOT TO SUE The Georgia Mountain Jubilee and their officials or volunteers assisting in the event or any subdivision thereof, grounds operators, officials, promoters, sponsors, advertisers, owners or lessees of premises used to conduct the event and each of them, their officials and employees, all for the purpose herein referred to as “releasees” from all liability to the undersigned, his/her personal representatives, assigns, heirs and next of kin for any and all property damage, bodily injury or death of the undersigned, whether caused by the negligence of the releasees or otherwise while the undersigned is participating in the event.

Car Driver/Owner’s Signature Date

8 P e a c h S t a t e C a d i l l a c & L a S a l l e C l u b S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 4 Peach State CLC Day at the High Museum

Terry Bird has connections with the High Museum. Let’s just say he is WIRED… Truth is, he may be found on more than one board of a community non-profit, doing his good works to benefit the Atlanta area. This time WE benefitted! Terry worked up some special parking, a great entry fee, and a kind welcome from the museum staff, who shared with us their Dream Cars exhibit.

RALLY! We arranged to meet on the plaza outside the Woodruff Center, beneath Atlas, on the same plaza we used when we attended the “Allure of the Automobile” back in 2010. This time around we had 15 Cadillacs lined up, in order. I’d say “age before beauty,” but they were ALL beauteous — a car show outside AND the car show inside.

We put Bill and Anne Marsh’s ’58 flower car out front to promote our club’s visit, then we lined up thirteen additional masterworks: • John Landstrom’s ’37 coupe • Paul and Janice Phillips’ ‘49 Sixty Special • Jay Friedman’s ’49 club coupe • Art Gardner’s ’55 Sixty Special • Hal and Cathy Raper’s ’56 sedan • Jeff Butler’s ’56 coupe • Doug Bailey’s ’58 sedan • Gabe Davis’ ’59 coupe (Gabe’s very close friend, Brittany Reed, joined us too) • Tom and Linda Di Nucci’s ’61 convertible • Ron and Annette Benneche’s ’62 coupe • Rob and Denise Kaufman’s ’66 convertible • Mark and Carol McDermott’s ’79 coupe • Joe Ochs’ ’84 Eldo convertible

Eventually we were joined by Phil and Danielle Maddox (and “Bubba”), Terry Bird (and his cousins Sheila and Stephen Molts from Tennessee), and the Mike Pusatori family (who joined us representing the Rolls Royce Club). Rob and Linda Johns couldn’t bring their ’41 convertible, because installation of its new top was delayed – but they came anyway. Later, Mark Anthony stopped by after Top: Long view with statue (Gabe photo). work in his Corvette. He left the Caddie at Middle: Jeff and Phil talk at the High. home, but we let him stay anyway! Bottom: Lineup rear view. 589 P e a c h S t a t e C a d i l l a c & L a S a l l e C l u b S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 4 Peach State CLC Day at the High Museum (Continued)

DREAM CARS: Awesome is an overused word, but in this instance it fits. This collection rivaled the “Allure” collection of four years ago. Among the memorable design studies and roadworthy masterpieces were a hand-fabricated, wine-red SWOOPY French job. Also present was a very clean example of a Stout Scarab, the forerunner of the modern SUV. I think Jay’s favorite was the ’34 Edsel Ford prototype, Model 40 Special Speedster. (This one was crafted with a Continental flair by Henry’s son on a ’34 chassis much like the Model B-35 phaeton Jay owned before selling it to a man “down under.”) From some angles this Model 40 reminds one of an early Indy car, the Offenhauser.

1947 Norman Timbs Special

I’m not especially into MOPARs, but a red retractable caught my eye. This ’41 Chrysler, sort of round for a “Thunderbolt,” featured an aerodynamic form in what was then revolutionary styling: streamlined, with very little chrome. Few edges of any kind. It sported the skirted wheel wells of a later model Nash Metropolitan! There was a ’34 Voisin, remarkable for its roofline and sliding top. There was also the red and white four-seat Buick convertible coined The Centurion, with a bubble top and rear-facing camera (yeah, that’s not a new concept either). Standing out are its rear wheel wells, cut out fully round as a premonition of the Buick Skylarks of the era – and standing in stark contrast to those skirted wells of the Chrysler Thunderbolt. You know, I have seen a hundred photos of Harley Earl’s 1951 Buick Le Sabre XP-8. Every book on automobile design highlights the Le Sabre. But that Cyclops eye stops me in my tracks. Ugly. Hideous even. But, oh boy is that thing long and low and wide. Honey-combed aluminum and fiberglass made up the design, with a fully automatic retractable roof. That rear end, oh my. And the interior appointments were stunning: Heated seats in ’51. Breath-taking! All sorts of features built into this car made their way onto GM’s production lineup in the Fifties. 10 P e a c h S t a t e C a d i l l a c & L a S a l l e C l u b S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 4 Peach State CLC Day at the High Museum (Continued)

1959 Cadillac’s Cyclone XP-74

THE CADILLAC CYCLONE: Yes, there were a few modern Porches and BMWs, but those simply did not captivate the way the capper of the show did: From huge, black, radar-scanning Dagmars (talk about an adolescent boy’s DREAM car…) to that unique tailfin treatment, the 1959 Cadillac Cyclone is a one-two knock-out combination. This car debuted at the inaugural Daytona 500 NASCAR race in Harley Earl’s final year with Cadillac Motors. It looks so familiar, right? Question: Can you tell what other designer had a hand in Earl’s ’59 design? Yup, Bill Mitchell took over in ’59 while Earl was traveling in Europe, and while re-working Earl’s designs for the ’59 production Cadillacs he apparently re-worked the tail of the Cyclone. In doing so, he re-designed the tails of the ‘61 and ’62 production Cadillacs. Note the skegs on the lower quarter panels, reminiscent of a Fifties fighter bomber. These were NOT Harley Earl contrivances. They are a long way from the ’48 fin’s genesis in the tailfins of the P-38 Lightning – a Thirties-era fighter that saw action during World War Two. Those skegged fins are what made the ’61 Series 62 convertible Tom Di Nucci’s personal Dream Car. Get this: All week long people stopped Tom to ask if his car had been on the floor in the High Museum for this exhibit. Tom, you shoulda told them YES!

See you all at the next Peach State CLC event!

— Doug

Ford Model 40 with Jay. 11 P e a c h S t a t e C a d i l l a c & L a S a l l e C l u b S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 4 Peach State CLC Day at the High Museum (Continued)

Above: 1951 Buick Le Sabre XP-8, Below: A great turnout for the High’s Dream Cars show by PSCLC members and guests!

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Above: Brittany Reed admiring the PSCLC lineup. Below: Wide shot of our lineup.

13 P e a c h S t a t e C a d i l l a c & L a S a l l e C l u b S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 4 Cadillac Clinic August 24, 2014

A hot, hot day in late August. The sunshine reflecting off the pavement blinds me as I pull into the lot. Folks strolling out from the Hispanic storefront church next to Winch’s shop. A familiar pang of pleasure at the recognition that I’m soon going to be hanging out with my buds. Can’t mistake it – it’s time for another Peach State Cadillac Clinic. How many now? I don’t know, but we probably average one every couple of months, and have done so for a few years now… These are one of our favorite things. You ought to join us.

I’m the first to arrive. I find Winch with his feet up, studying a car magazine. I park out of the way, to keep the passage to the lift clear. Chuck Heastings pulls up with his “new” ’96 DeVille. Then, quickly, Jay, Forrest, Hal, Art, Tom and Jack riding together. Soon we are joined by Phil Maddox and – rarity! Ray Diodati. The lot fills with old Cadillacs (and one Roadmaster). A guy asks me, “Is he (Phil) willing to sell me that Roadmaster?” I say to go ask him… It was a dry hole, right Phil?

Winch, Forrest and Hal under Chuck Heasting’s ’96 Deville.

We examine Winch’s new baby, a ’50 Buick business coupe with all new chrome, which he got from fellow member Josh Mills. Nice car. Straight eight, clean and straight, needs some paint, but maybe not. We roll the Mustang out of the way. The MG is missing its engine, set up like a washing machine motor on a rack, so this is easy to push aside. Chuck pulls the DeVille onto the rack. With it up in the air Winch and Art and Jay do an inspection. Clean! Chuck, you did ALL RIGHT with that acquisition! 14 P e a c h S t a t e C a d i l l a c & L a S a l l e C l u b S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 4 Cadillac Clinic (continued)

Soon there’s banging and clanging under Art’s ’55 Fleetwood. He and Jay are giving it the once over, looking for rust and loose fittings. There is always time for shooting the breeze, and munching on chips. Someone take the bag away from Forrest! Forrest and I go out to Ray’s ’57 to help him figure out the deal with his loose wiper mechanism. Man, is it hot. No help there; the knurled shaft is stripped. Just some suggestions on how to proceed, but nothing is fixed. Sorry Ray. Next to us Hal has the hood up on his ’56 and someone yells, “bring that inside out of the sun!” Next thing, Hal has his car inside, checking out the carburetor. (I heard later that he took it out for a rebuild. He’ll be down for a week or more.)

People start to trickle out of there around 3:00. We push the MG onto the lift as our parting shot, and the group begins to break up. I had to leave about 3:30. What did I miss?

— Doug

Jack, Winch and Chuck.

Jay, Chuck and Hal under the DeVille.

15 P e a c h S t a t e C a d i l l a c & L a S a l l e C l u b S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 4 CADILLAC OF LAKE LANIER TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR RATES FOR FRIENDS AND FAMILY.

THE 2014 MOTOR TREND CAR OF THE YEAR® ALL NEW 2014 CADILLAC CTS SEDAN CADILLAC OF LAKE LANIER 2355 Browns Bridge Road, Gainesville, GA 30504 CadillacofLakeLanier.com 770-535-2200

16 P e a c h S t a t e C a d i l l a c & L a S a l l e C l u b S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 4 In Search of that Cadillac Ride Introducing the FATTER SWAY BAR!

Does your ‘40s through ‘60s Cadillac ride like Jay and Art have a solution for us. Our club can a dream, the way you know it’s supposed to? buy the bars at a greatly reduced price and get If so, count yourself lucky. Many of us have had to them installed on our cars for free IF enough rebuild our front suspensions and replace shocks members join together for a group purchase. To to find that ride. A few have even replaced the make this work we need fifteen more members springs. But even a rebuilt front end can’t keep a willing to pay $130 or $140 plus shipping (de- 4500-pound car from diving into a sharp curve… pending on the car). These bars retail at $184 like the Turk found out on the Tail of the Dragon and $197, so you know it’s a great deal. We are (below). bypassing the middlemen like Kanter or PST and dealing directly with the only manufacturer of these bars. Understandably, the manufacturer requires a minimum quantity to qualify for the discount. By getting them shipped in bulk we hope to reduce those costs as well.

If you’re like me, you can immediately see the value in making this upgrade. But the next question I had was, “Aren’t we making a non- Cadillac modification?” The answer is NO. This is NOT a hot rodding modification. Cadillac Motors originally made fat sway bars for Series 75 limos and hearses, and the ones Jay and Art have found are exact duplicates of those. It will be like making a factory-installed upgrade. And, it’s Now two of Peach State’s most respected Cadillac practically invisible – even to the most thorough driver-mechanics have come up with a solution: Grand National judge. Where the older, thinner The fatter sway bar. A heavier sway bar great- bar was there will now be a thicker, heavier bar. ly improves the handling and comfort of your Doug now: “I am sold for both of my Cadillacs. Cadillac by reducing body lean during turns. A Sign me up!” key point: The straight-line ride quality remains unchanged – this adjustment does not apprecia- The club will be doing this as a “clinic” to save bly stiffen the car’s ride. You will still have that each of us the trouble and expense of installation. “rides-like-a-dream” sensation. That helps drivers We will have a place to do this with a lift, so we enjoy the ride, but it also makes us happy because don’t have to impose on Winchell’s hospitality. Art our passengers are singing our praises! Both Art and Jay estimate that three guys working under a Gardner and Jay Friedman, masters of the Forties lift (Art, Jay and the owner) can install a sway bar and Fifties Cadillacs, have added these bars to in 15 minutes or less. Six bolts and it’s done. ’49, ’55, and ’56 Cadillacs. Jay says, “My ’49 rides beautifully with [the new bar]. It can go around You’ve seen Art and Jay work at our Cadillac corners at higher speeds without leaning way Clinics, and you know they do excellent work – over like it did before.” Will it work for my Sixties they are offering their labor as a service to our Caddie, too?” Yep! club. Your “sweat investment” as the owner?

17 P e a c h S t a t e C a d i l l a c & L a S a l l e C l u b S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 4 In Search of that Cadillac Ride Introducing the FATTER SWAY BAR!

Stand in the middle and hold up the new bar while Art and Jay fit and fasten each end.

The bottom line is that with savings on parts and shipping, and with free labor, our cost will be half what it would cost doing it individually. Art said, “I can’t recommend this highly enough – you will love it. You will wish you had done it earlier. This will be one of the best returns on investment you can make on your car. For a relatively modest expenditure, you will substantially improve the enjoyment of driving your car.”

If you are interested, or want to ask questions, please give one of us a call. If you’re ready to sign up, let us know, and we will advise you of when and where to send your check. We will put a list together and see if we can get enough interest to make it happen!

Doug M: (404) 786-6077 [email protected] Jay H: (404) 633-7418 [email protected] Art H: (770) 933-9267 [email protected]

1942 Cadillac Series 62

18 P e a c h S t a t e C a d i l l a c & L a S a l l e C l u b S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 4 My 1962 Cadillac by Doug Birk

[Editor’s note: Doug Bailey tells me that Doug Birk has become an honorary Peach Stater by virtue of his years of interest in Peach State cars at Grand Nationals, and the occasional assist he has lent us. Example: In 2010 Doug saw I was beat and helped me wash my car before the big show. In 2009 Doug even supplied a rare parking lamp replacement gratis. Our Doug asked St. Louis Doug to share his story.]

For baby boomers 1962 was a year of teenagers coming of age, of carefree attitudes, while overcoming the barriers of social acceptance, awkwardness of hormonal body changes, and high expectations from their elders. It was a great year for just about everything, establishing benchmarks for great accomplishments and setting goals for future generations. The ever changing and dynamic environment opened the doors to unlimited feats. Our space exploration encouraged the development of the “Tel-Star” program, bonded with the historic voyage of John Glenn orbiting the earth in the vessel Friendship 7, and having our U.S. rocket Ranger actually landing on the moon. International political situations escalated with the on-going “cold war” between the U.S. and the Soviet Union, with the culmination of a very real possibility of a nuclear was between the two nations. President John F. Kennedy implemented a blockade of Soviet ships carrying ballistic missiles into the island of Cuba, some 90 miles off the coast of Florida. Fortunately, Premier Khrushchev backed down and all existing missiles were removed.

19 P e a c h S t a t e C a d i l l a c & L a S a l l e C l u b S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 4 My 1962 Cadillac (continued)

Unfortunately, the U.S. also had an involvement in a new international hot spot in Southeast Asia know as Viet Nam, where communist guerillas from the north were invading the free and independent Republic of South Viet Nam. The fear of communism spreading to the whole area (domino effect) drew the attention of all those in the free western nations. Even though we weren’t at war, names like Viet Kong, Mekong River, and Ho Che Min trail were becoming part of everyday topics. The young folks were setting trends of fashion, ranging from laid back attire from the coast of Southern California with surfboards and baggies to the latest infusion from the “Brits” of moppy haircuts and mini-skirts. These trends of diversity were reflected in the music as well, with such great tunes from the Beach Boys (Surfin’ Safari) catchy songs of Little Eva (Locomotion) folk and protest ballads of Peter , Paul & Mary (If I had a Hammer), Bob Dylan and Joan Baez. Songs of pop and cult performers from Elvis., Frankie Vali, Roy Orbison, and Chubby Checker (Let’s Do the Twist) permeated the airwaves. Let’s not forget the newcomers such as Diana Ross and The Supremes, and the boys from Liverpool, the Beatles (Love me Do). For entertainment, the movies for 1962 ran the spectrum, from such classics as Dr. No (aka James Bond), Manchurian Candidate (Lawrence Harvey), Lawrence of Arabia (Peter O’Toole), What Ever Happened to Baby Jane (Betty Davis), To Kill a Mockingbird (Gregory Peck), Birdman of Alcatraz (Bert Lancaster), and Something’s Got to Give (Marilyn Monroe). For those of us staying at home, our TV sets provided enjoyment from many new series; Beverly Hillbillies (Granny, Jed, Jethro, and Elli May), The Red Skelton Show, The Defenders, To Tell the Truth, The Dick Van Dyke Show, and the iconic Johnny Carson hosting The Tonight Show. In the sports arena, good news for the New York Yankees in defeating the San Francisco Giants in the World Series. The year 1962 was the 60th anniversary celebration of the Cadillac Motor Car. Many 1962 models were just face-lifted versions of the previous year; but, here is where and why Cadillac excels in transforming their designs without losing the traditional Cadillac elegance. The sculptured sides were retained including the horizontal fin (skeg), allowing the various shades and tints of color to reflect the magnificent angles of its design. The front grille was replaced with the more traditional egg crate square configuration found on so many old classic Cadillacs. This grille was also mimicked on the rear for the Fleetwood series. The rear quarters retained the vertical fins with a decrease in elevation, sans the stainless caps. The two stop, signal, and back-up light pods were now vertical and incorporated a new technique of indirect illumination (reverse reflection) of the lamps, while still retaining the two vertical stop lights in the fins. Not all was cosmetic. This year introduced front cornering lamps providing side illumination when turning corners, dual master brake cylinders provided a second source for safer braking, new chassis design allowed for chair-height seating and, on four door cars, rear doors were 4 inches

20 P e a c h S t a t e C a d i l l a c & L a S a l l e C l u b S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 4 My 1962 Cadillac (continued) longer and swung open 6 inches further. A slightly smaller Jet-Away Hydra-Matic case allowed for additional front interior room by reducing the transmission hump. Now, let me introduce myself. I am a factory original and unrestored 1962 Cadillac, Series 6039 Fleetwood 60 Special Sedan (actually a four door hardtop by design). I represent one of 13,350 sixty specials (8.3%) that rolled out at the vintage 1921 Cadillac assembly plant at 2860 Clark avenue in Detroit, Michigan. Yes, I am truly special! I was a factory special order by my first owner, who upgraded my finish with Fire Frost Silver acrylic lacquer (#61 Sheffield Silver), which was only made available after the spring of 1962. I was also ordered with the optional biscuit pattern black leather upholstery. This was seldom ordered on a formal sedan, and actually not mentioned as an option in the sales brochure. My standard features included the powerful 390 cubic inch overhead valve V-8 engine, four barrel carburetor, ultra smooth four speed Hydra-Matic transmission, power steering and brakes. Surprising to many, the four way electric seat adjustor and eight electric windows (including four vent wings) were standard-now that is truly class! My luxury appointments complementing the leather upholstery were the use of real African cherry wood veneer on the door panels, cut pile carpet and an array of courtesy and reading lamps. My “gadgets” didn’t stop there. I was also optioned out with GM Harrison air conditioning, tinted glass, six-way electric seat, Guide-Matic Autronic Eye, power door locks, power trunk release with auto pull down, Positraction, signal seeking radio with foot control selector, door guards and floor mats. My base price of $6,366 quickly escalated to the $8,000 range. This was a lot of money for a car in 1962, con- sidering the average price of a new home was $12,500, and the average annual income was $9,487. Upon leaving Detroit my destination was the Lindburg Cadillac dealership at Sarah and Laclede Ave. in St. Louis, Missouri. Never leaving my French heritage, I was leaving one French founded city for another. My first owner, who actually ordered me, was a distinctive gentleman and prominent St. Louis businessman named Syd Solomon. Among Mr. Solomon’s business adventures included being the first owner of the newly formed St. Louis Blues hockey team. The Solomon’s did not keep me in their stable too long before I was traded in early for his next Cadillac, a 1965 model. But my legacy continued with my second family who has had me for the last 50 years! They are the Birk family from Kirkwood, Missouri, a small historic suburb of St. Louis. Here I was, now sitting on the used car lot of Lindburg Cadillac, wondering what the stars had in mind. Hopefully, some nice family would see me and drive me home. I really miss my garage! Well, on a warm Sunday afternoon in June 1964 a young man come up to my window to take a look-see of what was in store. To his eyes I was everything anyone could ask for, and to me, a potential new home. It seems the Birks, dad and son, like to go out car shopping on Sundays when no salesmen are around. The son, Doug, quite the car fanatic, convinced his dad, Gordon, to consider me as their new family vehicle-only on the condition they trade in their beautiful white 1960 Sixty Special as the daily driver. I think I was washed and polished more than driven, but I did get out for Sunday dinners, graduations, trips to Baskin-Robbins, and most of all to car shows. When I came of age (25 years) I was introduced to the joy of participating with other vintage cars in showing off our attributes.

21 P e a c h S t a t e C a d i l l a c & L a S a l l e C l u b S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 4 My 1962 Cadillac (continued)

It’s wonderful to be admired by so many people who appreciate “antiques”! Among the many shows was the annual Easter show in St. Louis’ Forest Park. Mrs. Birk, Audy, loved going to see not only the vintage cars, but also all the family pets that show up, and mostly she didn’t have to cook Easter dinner! Other gatherings included the annual CLC show in beautiful Tower Grove Park, the taking of the second place trophy in 1979 at the regional Grand National here in town. The most auspicious occasion was in January 2011, being invited to participate at the St. Louis International Auto Show, where a few select cars are chosen to be on display, courtesy of the Horseless Carriage Club of Missouri. I was truly in all my glory with my diamond gloss paint and gleaming chrome under the spot light. To most all my admirers, it was difficult for them to believe that I was an unrestored 49 year old beauty. When being driven by Doug, he and I both feel the spirit of Audry and Gordon riding along in comfort and style, being admired and envied by others. Yes, I truly am a very special car belonging to my special family; may it continue for another 50 years!

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Peach State Road Rally and Canton Cruise-in August 16, 2014 It’s been too long since we cruised! Let’s do something about it! As advertised, we met at the Copper Coin Coffee Shop in downtown Woodstock. My navigator, Phil Maddox, ran me down in the parking lot. Like me, he was driving in circles looking for coffee. Woodstock has grown up! A beautiful day, ripe for a 100-mile, “blue highways” cruise… Just in time for some java and a turnover. Job one: DONE! We crossed to the rally point and found new members Rory and Lucille O’Neil, sipping coffee and inventorying the arriving Cadillacs. They drove Lucille’s ’05 STS, but they had photos in hand of the ’78 Eldorado being shipped from California later this day. A beauty. And our Cadillac couple deserves it! (Rory and Lucille will fit our group like gravy with mashed potatoes – okay, parmesan and pasta – because they absolutely adore all things Cadillac. I think they have owned nine, and currently have three. We are waiting for their cars’ introductions, to be published in the TAILFIN soon.) A space opened up in front - big space next to a red Stingray convertible. In pulled Jack and Donna with their son in the ’76 Eldo convertible. Right behind them were Lee and MJ Dunn in their ’63 Corvette split window coupe. Man, that would have made a nice photo shoot! Sandy Partridge and Doug Johnson slipped Sandy’s ’76 d’Elegance, Monica, comfortably in place. Now a surprise! Stan Tucker, the stranger, drew the Queen Mary into its berth. Actually it was the ’56 Sixty Special we call The Godfather. Good to see you, Stan! Last but not least, our host and Road Master, Tom Di Nucci, with wife Linda in their ’61 Series 62 convertible. After the driver’s briefing, and with directions in hand, seven cars headed out. We went in stages, timed by Road Master Tom. The O’Neils left first, then Sandy and Doug, then the Hurleys. Phil directed me behind the wheel of the Turk. First challenge: finding Hwy 515 northbound. Check. First stop: Ballground - a look at the Ingram Truck Body plant (that Thirties Ford stake truck has been there for decades). While Phil was checking out the truck we were caught by the Dunns in the Vette. Gotta get outta here! Stan and Linda were somewhere behind, moving along at a stately pace. (Tom made Linda ride with Stan because Stan needed a navigator.) We caught the O’Neils and Hurleys in Jasper at the monument, filling in answers to the road quiz. Back on Hwy 53, headed toward Fairmount, we passed an intriguing collection of twenty or more old cars in a yard. Behind that, we espied some rear ends sticking out the doors of a chicken coop. Hey, those weren’t chicken butts! That’s an entire lineup of old cars covered in corrugated tin. We need to go back there sometime, folks! Phil and I were so excited we missed the motorcycle up on a post, and that eventually cost us a point.

Sandy and Doug with “Monica”. In the restaurant after the road rally: L to R: Mary Jean, Stan, Tom, Linda, Phil, Doug, Doug, Sandy, Lulu and Rory O’Neill (our newest members) 23 P e a c h S t a t e C a d i l l a c & L a S a l l e C l u b S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 4 Peach State Road Rally and Canton Cruise-in (Continued) Around the square in Fairmount – we’ve been there before, when we visited with Mr. Model T. Out on the other side of town we found the VFW post and its armored carrier. We got onto I-75 south at the Cartersville exit, near the now familiar Harley Davidson shop where we often begin our northern road trips. We went up Red Top Mountain, through the park and crossed Lake Allatoona, carefully noting the clearance for our score sheets. Back roads returned us to Wood- stock, where we had lunch at Camasini’s Italian Grill. That was some GOOD pizza. The winners, Lee and Mary Jean, were feted by the club. Outstanding trip, Tom. Let’s go back and do it again… A Side Trip to Canton Cruise-In: Although the O’Neills had to leave to meet their Eldorado’s transport, and the Hurleys had trouble with a low-hanging muffler, the rest of us hung around Camasini’s a while. Eventually we drove directly up I-575 to Riverstone Mall for the cruise-in. We went early, and it was a good thing, because the place was nearly full by 3:15 PM. Might have been 400 cars. They don’t even advertise as starting until 4:00. Well, the short version is that Phil and I found that Tom had saved some spots. Stan came too, and Lee parked his Vette tail end out so people could see that split window. Vince Haaland was showing off his newest acquisition, a yellow and black ’53 Lincoln Capri with what might be a Durham-bodied continental kit. It is beautiful, and so well done. It drew a lot of attention. Vince said he’s put himself in a tight spot, because this car competes in his mind with Maybelline, his ’57 Coupe DeVille. Larry Reece was there, too, in his ’51 Series 61. I got my update on the progress Larry’s making on the Chevy sedan delivery. Gonna be nice… Well, the sun was HOT, hot hot. We squirmed to get under the deck lids and stole some space under a Nash owner’s tent. Soon enough it was time to bug out of there. I know some of the guys hung around a while, and might have gone out to eat. If so, we will have to get their story later.

— Doug

Lineup at restaurant after the Road Rally cruise. Found along the road, dead: Caddie at White, GA junkyard

Vince’s ’53 Lincoln, Stan’s ’56 the Godfather Mary Jean and Lee with the ’63 Vette. and Lee’s ’63 split window coupe. 24 P e a c h S t a t e C a d i l l a c & L a S a l l e C l u b S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 4 Biltmore Estates

Allanté Atlanta Car Club Annual Christmas Cruise December 5, 6 and 7, 2014 Oh, Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle all the way, Oh, what fun it is to ride in a Classic Cadillac Dashing over the roads, In a Classic Cadillac Over the fields we go Laughing all the way ...

Yes we know it’s a bit early and the lyrics don’t rhyme, but we’re hoping to get you in the spirit for the Allanté Atlanta Car Club Annual Christmas Cruise. The Allanté Atlanta Car Club (AACC) and invited guests, Peach State Cadillac LaSalle Region members, will be caravanning to Asheville, NC and the fabulous Biltmore Estate Friday morning, December 5th. We will meet at 7:30 a.m. at McDonalds at 4358 Buford Drive, Buford, GA 30518. Our Drivers Meeting is at 8 a.m. with departure at 8:15 a.m. sharp. Our planned route is I-985 N to US 441/23 to Sylva, NC to US 23/74 to Waynesville, NC where we will stop for lunch at 11:30 at the Sweet Onion restaurant. Our departure from Waynesville will be 2:45 pm. We are planning a hearty lunch as our Biltmore Candlelight Tour is that evening. From Waynesville, still on US 74 we will merge on to I-40 East to Asheville and I-26 to our hotel. Hampton Inn Asheville-Biltmore Square 1 Rocky Ridge Road Asheville, NC 28806-2224 Our arrival time at the hotel is geared for 3:30 p.m. We will have time to check-in, freshen ourselves and enjoy some libations and snacks before caravanning from our hotel for the Biltmore Estate. Our Candlelight tour reservations are at 6:15 p.m. which means we must be at the Biltmore parking area for shuttle to the Biltmore mansion no later than 5:30 p.m. The Candlelight tour takes about 2 to 2 ½ hours. The Biltmore home is quite large and requires walking. So wearing comfortable shoes is necessary. However, there is an elevator that can be used for those having trouble with stairs. Keep in mind temperatures can be quite cold in Asheville in early December so plan to dress in layers.

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We will have time to check-in, freshen ourselves and enjoy some libations and snacks before caravanning from our hotel for the Biltmore Estate. Our Candlelight tour reservations are at 6:15 p.m. which means we must be at the Biltmore parking area for shuttle to the Biltmore mansion no later than 5:30 p.m. The Candlelight tour takes about 2 to 2 ½ hours. The Biltmore home is quite large and requires walking. So wearing comfortable shoes is necessary. However, there is an elevator that can be used for those having trouble with stairs. Keep in mind temperatures can be quite cold in Asheville in early December so plan to dress in layers. We should be back in our cars by 8:30/8:45 p.m. and our hotel around 9:00 p.m. Since we are back at our hotel well after our normal dinner hour, the Allanté Club will have snacks and drinks available. Or, if preferred, there are several restaurants in the area for a late supper. Saturday morning after breakfast at 9 a.m., we will depart at 10:30 a.m. for the Biltmore Estate. Our Candlelight tour tickets allow us access to the entire Biltmore Estate where we can explore the gardens, Garden Shop, and walk the grounds near the Biltmore home, Antler Village shops and the farm. We can participate in wine tastings, a winery tour and in general enjoy the beauty and gentile pace of the estate. Lunch will be on your own, either at one of the Estate restaurants or in the Biltmore Village off the estate. We should return to the hotel no later than 3:30 p.m. for rest and relaxation. The Allanté Club will host a short “libation” time before departing for the Grove Park Inn and the Blue Ridge Room for a “prime rib buffet” at 7:00p.m. The term “prime rib buffet” is misleading as the buffet offers more than prime rib: fish, chicken, assorted seafood, farm to table vegetables and salads, appetizers, breads and of course, multiple decadent desserts and coffees. After dinner, we will tour the famous Gingerbread Village display which always brings a smile and wistful thoughts of our own gingerbread house creations. After our leisurely tour of the Gingerbread Village, we will return to our hotel for the evening. Sunday morning we will again drive to the Biltmore Estate for a photography session at 7:30 a.m. in front of the Biltmore home. The Biltmore Estate will have staff available to direct us to our designated parking area for our pictures. Following our picture-taking, we’ll return to the hotel for breakfast, conversation and packing for our return home. Departure from Asheville will be at 11 a.m. Hotel reservations at the Hampton Inn-Biltmore Square ($135 for 2 queens; $149 for 1 king) can be made at the following personalized website. Hotel reservations must be made by November 5th. You can “control-click” on the site or copy and paste. http://hamptoninn.hilton.com/en/hp/groups/personalized/A/ AVLRRHX-ALL-20141205/index.jhtml?WT.mc_id=POG The Costs for the Weekend: • Registration and Fee to join the cruise is $30 / car payable to the Allanté Atlanta Car Club; There is a $10 fee per car for the group picture in Front of the Biltmore House, December 7th, Sunday morning at 7:30 a.m. (the picture is your option). Registration and fee and optional $10 Biltmore group picture must be received no later than October 5th. • Candlelight Tour Tickets are $68.48 / person payable to the Allanté Atlanta Car Club Payment is required by October 25th . The Biltmore must have their full payment and confirmation of attendee numbers by November 5th. • Dinner at the Grove Park Inn is $53.93/person (includes 20% gratuity and tax) payable to the Allanté Atlanta Car Club Payment is required by November 5th The registration form and all payments should be mailed to and received by the above dates as follows: Paula Vopelak, 2235 Fossil Creek Drive, Cumming, GA 30041

Questions can be addressed by calling Paula at 404-788-6121 or via email: [email protected]

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Allanté Atlanta Car Club (AACC) and Peach State CLC “Christmas at the Biltmore” Cruise Reservation December 5, 6, and 7, 2014

Name______Cell Phone Number ______

Email Address ______

Accompanying Friend, Spouse ______Cell Phone Number ______

Club Affiliation (AACC or Peach State CLC)______

Will you be driving your Allanté _____ YES ____ NO or driving your Cadillac ____YES _____NO

What year Allanté, exterior color, license plate number______

What year Cadillac, Model, exterior Color & license plate number______

OR alternate vehicle make, model, color & license plate number______

Our Rally Location is at the McDonalds at 4358 Buford Drive at 7:30 a.m.on Friday, December 7th. Will you meet us there? ____YES ____NO or at an alternate location along our route; where ______Number of Tickets to the Biltmore Christmas Candlelight Tour ______$68.48/person (includes taxes) Do you wish to participate in the Group Photography Session Sunday morning _____Yes ____No $10/can Contact the Hampton Inn – Biltmore Square for hotel reservations Friday, December 5, and Saturday, December 6 online at our personalized link below http://hamptoninn.hilton.com/en/hp/groups/personalized/A/AVLRRHX-ALL- 20141205/index.jhtml?WT.mc_id=POG Or, if you wish to call the hotel: 1-888-347-2319 Twenty Lodge Rooms are blocked ~ Do not delay. If more rooms are needed, the hotel may be able to accommodate us if contacted early. Reservations close November 5, 2014

Will you join us for dinner at the Grover Park Inn, Friday December 5th at 7 p.m. ____Yes ____No How many in your party? ______$53.93/person (includes 20% gratuity and taxes).

Please include the REGISTRATION FORM and appropriate REGISTRATION FEES payable to

Allanté Atlanta Car Club.

Mail to no later than October 5th, 2014 to:

Paula Vopelak 2235 Fossil Creek Drive Cumming, GA 30041

Candlelight Tour Ticket payment due October 25th Grove Park Inn dinner payment due November 5th.

QUESTIONS ~ CALL 404-788-6121

27 P e a c h S t a t e C a d i l l a c & L a S a l l e C l u b S e p t e m b e r 2 0 1 4 Remembering A Letter from Dirk Van Dorst Carl Steig, Hello world of CLC! All info for the 2015 CLC Grand European in Switzerland CLC Chief Judge and will be on the www.cadillacclub.ch website soon. Cadillac Mentor Meanwhile you can enjoy Carl passed away in August, and the entire pictures of previous GEs on Cadillac community was saddened. Carl was this site if you click on “photos.” the author of much of the judging criteria and Hope to see you all in training for judges, and a major contributor to Zurich, Switzerland next year! the CLC Directory’s priceless reference section. Carl was also a highly esteemed and longtime Kind regards from France, member of the CLC board. Martina Butler, Peach State’s CLC Board representative, shared this about Carl’s contributions to anyone who is a member of the CLC, “He gave above and FOR SALE: beyond anyone else. Cadillac was his first name. • BOOKS • ’53 Danbury MODEL Ann Marie was a big backer for me early on, and • ’66 and ’68 MANUALS, • ’49 PARTS gave me a lot of insight on all the people in the Ron Van Gelderen, past president of the Cadillac & LaSalle group. Carl will be missed...” Club, and emeritus member of the Peach State CLC, is moving out west to live with his daughter. He has shared a few items We add our condolences to Carl’s family and from his vast collection with member Rob Compton, who has share the sadness of the entire Cadillac world. the items for sale in Hiawassee, GA. We know that we will miss Carl’s leadership. Books: All are brand new! 80 Years of Cadillac and LaSalle by Walter McCall: $35.00 Cadillac by Bron Kowal: $15.99 Cadillac: 100 Years of Innovation by Angelo Bogert: $29.99 Fabulous Fins of the Fifties by Rob Wagner: $17.98 The Ultimate Encyclopedia of American Cars by Peter Henshaw: $24.97 Concept Cars by Richard Dredge: $24.97 Sixteen Cylinder Motorcars by Roy Scheider: $150.00

Danbury Mint Model: 1953 Cadillac Eldorado Convertible. Cream color 1:16 scale Perfect condition, still in original box with papers. $300.00

Above, photo taken in 2007 at the Grand Nationals in Wheel Covers: Savannah. Notice the distinct pleasure Carl (left) 1949 Sombreros. Original and very nice: $900.00 derived from handing a well-deserved trophy to 1949 Fender Skirt Medallions (pair): $200.00 another proud Cadillac owner – in this case the late Jim Moore of Peach State, who won with his 1948 Cadillac. Call: Rob Compton (706) 896-1923 Doug Bailey (770) 992-8394 (or send me a note at [email protected])