In 1999, my wife, Linda & I purchased our restored ‘68 Red Convertible from Northern Illinois Auto Brokers located in Wauconda, Illinois. Our Camaro is an Original Stock 327 - 210 H.P. – Muncie 4-Speed. I‘ve done some improvements such as; Engine Detailing, the Under Carriage Detailing and changed the tires to Redlines for a finished look.
I’m very proud to say that I’ve won several awards & trophies at various local car shows and three (3) years in a row won the “Gold” award at the Chevy Vette Fest.
Membership with the Illinois Camaro Club was back in August of 1999.
Linda & I decided to start checking out the local “Cruise Nights” in the area by our home. Local City “Cruise Nights” were starting to become very popular and we were curious to say the least. I recall our first time at a Lombard “Cruise Night,” we stopped to admire a ‘68 Red Camaro with a Black Vinyl top parked on the street. A very friendly guy, (Bob Lotito), introduced himself while letting us know it was his car. We shared our excitement that we’d soon be picking up our Camaro during that week and let him know it was similar to his car. Bob asked if we’d be interested in joining the Illinois Camaro Club and gave us the details about the events and activities of what the club entailed. Somehow, we completed our application and turned it in to become official I.C.C. members that night.
Sometime later that year, we were approached by Tom Allen, a past Board Member and President of the Club, and were asked if we’d like to be a Sponsor for the club. At the time, my wife and I owned & operated a business and thought it would be great for the advertising. We were Sponsors for about 5 years until we sold our business in 2005. Currently, we have a Family Membership in the club.
I’ve been an active Board member holding office as the Illinois Camaro Club Treasurer for 2 terms and I can honestly say, it’s definitely been a “challenge”, but a pleasure to serve the club. All in all, I think it’s been fun sharing common interest with a majority of I.C.C. members, especially, when it comes to Camaro’s. Simply put, my wife and I have thoroughly enjoyed the friendships that have developed while participating at the many functions during these past 9 years.
My own personal wish is for the Illinois Camaro Club to continue to grow and prosper in the years ahead.
The Illinois Camaro Club would like to thank Rory and Linda for their years of assistance with the club and it's many events. Its officers and members, like the Smiths that make the Illinois Camaro Club what it is today.