knightfan26917

"My world is changing" __ Faith Hill __ 'Where Are You Christmas?' If it wasn't completely official yet, it became so 12/12/2012, when I put the license plates on it: WELCOME to the family, 1989 Caprice Classic Brougham! The same day, I put the keys for both of my Caprice Classics on the "'Caprice' w/CC emblem" key rings that a friend sent me. Now, I just need to give my 1989 Caprice Classic its 1st detail.... As I put on the plates, I was excited but still had a twinge of sadness, which probably will never completely go away. This 1989 Caprice Classic just sort of fell into my lap. A friend & I went to look at it, figuring it would be nothing more than an exercise in determining what I would NOT want in an '89 CC. In fact, it was just the opposite. Looking it over, it became clear that it was in top mechanical shape with a few cosmetic issues ... & the price was good. The seller actually lowered it for me b/c he wanted me to have it given my "car history". Brought it home, with the help of the same friend, 10/26/2012. 1979 Caprice Classic & 1989 Caprice Classic plates; which season do you prefer? I was able to make a bit more "connection" w/my newest acquisition b/c I found some original documentation in the 1989 Caprice Classic's glove compartment. The ones pictured (not including documentation w/names & addresses) are: "A service signals checklist for the car owner"; "GM Maintenance Schedule for Passenger Cars"; "1989 Warranty & Owners Assistance Information"; 1989 Caprice owners manual; "Used Vehicle Disclosure Label" (from 1993); "Vehicle Invoice" (1993); "Dealer Certification for Emission Control Equipment" (06/09/1989); Pre-Delivery inspection papers (1989); Burtness Chevrolet Inc (WI) "maintenance folio".... This was taken just after the new wire wheels were installed: 3 of the entire family: Cort | 39.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 2 MCs + '79 & '89 Caprice Classics CHD.cars + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort * roadsNwheels + CapriceClassicForum = http://rdwhl-capriceclassic.proboards.com/ * "It's the right time to rock the night away" __ Bobby Helms __ 'Jingle Bell Rock'

"May your days be merry & bright" __ Irving Berlin/Bing Crosby __ 'White Christmas' Remember me?! "Music tells your story, seethes your anger, relaxes your worries, celebrates your excitement, embodies your emotions ... from across the years & for multiple time periods & reasons ... even if you can't...." --- CD Stevens, 12/29/2012 OLD CARS, STRONG HEARTS I created a new page on Facebook to celebrate "strong hearts" & "memory makers" (old cars, roads, buildings, music, TV shows, movies, toys, games, etc.). Please check it out & join, if you want: https://www.facebook.com/OldCarsStrongHearts 2012 I'd like to forget this past year, for the most part.... I am tired, weak, worn, stressed, but I'm alive. Part of me wants to be DONE; part of me wants to believe in hope; part of me wants to get in 1 of my cars & "drive so far they'll all lose track" [line from Dolly Parton's 'Hard Candy Christmas']. I'm not sure which way to go? I've endured 4 open heart surgeries, so this should be a piece of cake; the last year has been anything BUT for many reasons & levels. Lately, my energy level & restlessness [thanks to not eating or sleeping much] has been such that, despite the many projects I should do, the only thing I feel like doing is driving around aimlessly.... &, yes, I have applied for disability. I haven't continued writing my Route 66 story ... yet. CONNECTIONS It'd be cool if we all lived in the same town. I have ties to many of you, some of which would not be possible w/o the internet ... car interests, heart issues, music interests, message boards & groups, etc. ... even meeting in person at events here & gatherings during my yearly road trips. Yet, w/o our different homes & backgrounds, we may not have the experiences to share w/each other that help us find connections.... That's little consolation as I may not be able to road trip for quite a while, if again. THANK YOU for being a part of my life. THE ONE This pic includes a pic taken September 1984 ... me & "the 1" that started it all, "my" 1976 MC ... & 1 of 4 hubcaps I have from that same car. If my parents had not bought it, I most-likely wouldn't know many of you. Life is funny. Pics, cars, music, places, etc. bring back sssoo many memories..... Cort | 39.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 2 MCs + '79 & '89 Caprice Classics CHD.cars + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort *** 3rd GEN MC (1978,1979,1980) FORUM > http://thirdgenmontes.proboards.com/ *** "Decorations of red on a green Christmas tree" __ Elvis Presley __ 'Blue Christmas'

* WEATHER FORECAST As of NOW, temps to be in the lower 60s, w/showers. I'll take the warmer temps; rain is OK since we'll be inside for lunch. My newest addition, 1989 Caprice Classic (maroon w/temporary plate), will be at Nick's Pizza. If it works out, I'll have my 1979 CC there, too. After lunch, Plato Center IL (where my 2 MCs are) is ~10 minutes from the restaurant. Will YOU join us? It'd be nice to see YOU! Cort | 39.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 2 MCs + '79 & '89 Caprice Classics *** 3rd GEN MC (1978,1979,1980) FORUM > http://thirdgenmontes.proboards.com/ *** * roadsNwheels + CapriceClassicForum = http://rdwhl-capriceclassic.proboards.com/ * "There comes a time when we heed a certain call" __ USA __ 'We Are The World'

shadow Cort | 39.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 2 MCs + '79 & '89 Caprice Classics CHD.cars + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "Yes, it's been quite a summer" __ Jimmy Buffett __ 'Come Monday'

*grins* Saw these on FB, too. LOVE them ... never get tired of seeing OLD pictures like these, especially when OLD cars are involved. Cort | 39.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 2 MCs + '79 & '89 Caprice Classics CHD.cars + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "I saw an old Malibu" __ Doug Stone __ 'I Thought It Was You'

*grins* Thanks, guys! BTW ... do any of you remember "Blade Runner"??? Cort | 39.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 2 MCs + '79 & '89 Caprice Classics CHD.cars + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "Take a drive along the beach" __ England Dan & John Ford Coley __ 'I'd Really Love To See You Tonight'

* Looks like ~10-30 people will (or will possibly) attend. Would be great to see YOU! I'm hoping the weather cooperates enough for me to have all 4 cars out, too. Cort | 39.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 2 MCs + '79 & '89 Caprice Classics CHD.cars + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "What's it gonna take to lay a few burdens down?" __ Newsboys __ 'Million Pieces'

Been thinking of everyone in the east. Thoughts/prayers to all those affected, of course..... Cort | 39.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 2 MCs + '79 & '89 Caprice Classics CHD.cars + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "Why are we so blind to see that the ones we hurt are you & me" __ Coolio __ 'Gangsta's Paradise (Dangerous Minds)'

sex Cort | 39.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 2 MCs + '79 & '89 Caprice Classics CHD.cars + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "I think it's about time you should know" __ Trick Pony __ 'Just What I Do'

Thank you!!!! I imagine it wasn't cheap. The friend of mine that I rode down with was looking at such a set for 1976 ... and it was a bit more than he wanted to pay at the time.... Oh, and details on the Caprice below....sort of. he he. That'd have been me. Yep!!! It was great to see you again, Drew! LOL! I'll try to remember that. And, thank you ... I'll see what I can do to stop by a bit more often, and I sure appreciate the sentiment.... "I thought that time would cure" __ Tom Wopat __ 'A Little Bit Closer' Tests (CT scan, chest Xray, bloodwork) showed NO appendicitis or pneumonia. So, it most-likely is stress. Solution? Spend more time w/people (road trip or something else...!) to have fun & relax. Problem? Distance & availability. Ugh! Purchased the 1989 Caprice Classic the evening of 10/26/2012, so the '89 is now mine ... officially! Good or bad, it's a new chapter of my car family. Heh, 10 years ago (March 2002), I added a 1st gen to complete my MC collection w/all 4 generations: '72 (1970-72), '76 (1973-77), '79 (1978-1980) & '81 (1981-88); the '87 arrived mid-2003. Now, I have 2 MC generations, 3rd (1979) & 4th (1981), & 2 Caprice Classics, 1979 (LP="WINTR 79") & 1989 (LP="SUMMR 89"), which though virtually are the same car, look & drive vastly different.... This October, I celebrated 20 years owning my '79 MC. Earlier this year, my '81 MC surpassed 30 years in our family. I've owned the 1979 Caprice Classic for 3 years now. I've met many people through my cars (past & present) & road trips, & have experienced many good things because of them. I look forward to many more years of car ownership & awesome experiences.... AND ... since you can't hit at what you don't swing, anyone want to help me attempt to land a job (& be able to do my Christmas Eve radio show for the 4th straight year)? If you own a business, know someone who does, or can put me in contact w/your employer's "decision maker", Email me: faithcubsmc2691 @ aol.com Businesses for this can be located ANYWHERE in the United States, but must have a product or service that the public uses, like hotels, restaurants, gas stations, car repair shops, attractions, museums, stores, events, etc. Thank you! MORE PICS! My new "Car Family", 1989 Caprice Classic, '79 MC, '81 MC, 1979 Caprice Classic... Comparing my 2 Caprice Classics, 1979 & 1989... Cort | 39.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 2 MCs + '79 & '89 Caprice Classics CHD.cars + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort * roadsNwheels + CapriceClassicForum = http://rdwhl-capriceclassic.proboards.com/ * "I may lose the battle, but I love the fight" __ John Schneider __ 'Love, You Ain't Seen The Last Of Me'

* Are you IN? To spend time w/people, including YOU!, & celebrate anniversaries... ...1st of my 4th open heart surgery, 11/11/2011 ...9th of my 3rd OHS, 01/06/2003 ...20th of purchasing my 1st car, my 1979 MC, October 1992 ...25th of my 2nd OHS, March 1987 ...35th of my 1st OHS, November 1977 WHEN/WHERE? 11/11/2012, Sunday 11a = pre-lunch (place depends on weather) 1p = main event, lunch @ NICK'S PIZZA & PUB 990 S Randall Rd Elgin IL 60123 http://www.nickspizzapub.com/elgin/ After lunch (3p?) = Car cruise/visits? If you ARE joining us, PLEASE CONTACT me so I have a general # for Nick's Pizza: faithcubsmc2691 @ aol.com (or) 847- 337- 9897 (or) https://www.facebook.com/knightcaprice269177989 (or) https://www.facebook.com/events/154841674654448/ Hope to see YOU there! Cort | 39.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 2 MCs + '79 & '89 Caprice Classics CHD.cars + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "An open road and a road that's hidden" __ Steve Wariner __ 'Brand New Life (Who's The Boss?)'

"I'm not afraid things won't get better, but it feels like this has gone on forever" __ Toad The Wet Sprocket __ 'Good Intentions' Cars & music = time machines that just keep playing! Life is like cars & music; it runs, grooves & stays alive in surprising ways. Stopping in to say "hello" & share some highlights (pics below); perhaps I can't say "goodbye" completely.... * For the last week or so, I haven't slept or eaten much. It may just be stress, but I have an appointment w/my PCP this Thursday to make sure. I'd hate to think the pneumonia has returned or an issue has developed w/my pig or cow valves.... * I probably will start writing again, particularly my Route 66 story. Should also carve out some time to update the website Ray B created for me.... * Paid $10 for a hood ornament for my 1979 Caprice Classic at the Fall 2012 Jefferson WI Swap Meet. Last time I was at Fall Jefferson was 1998; I bought the 4 wire hubcaps for my '79 MC for $5 total. [The original '79 caps were moved to my (then parents') '81 MC, which had plain Malibu caps on it, per my parents' request at time of original purchase.] This year, I also found a HotWheels 2nd gen MC, which I bought for my nephew to complete his collection of all 4 generations; yes, he already knows which generation is which! * Went to Freeport IL & Winnebago IL to visit friends; a friend from Pittsburgh PA visited while in the area. * Went to a drive-in theater to watch a movie for the 1st time (been to several drive-ins along Route 66). Saw "Back To The Future" & "Jaws" at the McHenry IL Drive-In. * At the Morris IL Car Show/Swap Meet, 10/21/2012, I bought 2 dealer posters ... 1979 Caprice Classic sedan & 1979 Blazer (red/white, just like Uncle Glen's, the 1st vehicle I drove before I got my license). I also saw some cool cars, including several MCs that "found" me. Guess I'll never get away from them...? * My '79 & '81 MCs surpassed the 1,000-mile for the year in LESS THAN 2 MONTHS, a bittersweet milestone, & weather-permitting, will have ~1,200 for the year before snow flies. It's been a heck of a spring/summer/fall...! * My 1979 Caprice Classic reminds me of the 70s-orange 1978 CC that, in mid-1984, was considered as a possible replacement for "my" '76 MC. I remember that fateful Labor Day Friday when I rounded the last corner between school & home & did NOT see "my" car in the driveway. I was told that, come Tuesday, a 1982 Chevette (at least it is RWD &, like the CC, has NEVER been front-wheel-drive!) would be ours; that was the only time I've seen the FRONT of a '76 MC frown (seen the rear frown many times). Though it's been ~3 months, each time I drive my remaining 2 MCs, I fully expect to see 5 MCs when that garage door opens.... I know, they're "just cars", but I miss my former MCs (1972, 1976, 1987) a LOT & only a few people will understand/know that.... Even so, later this week, I will ADD a 1989 Caprice Classic to the family...! * Lots of "Nephew Time"! I've taught him well, it seems. He's asked when he can hear me on the radio again & knows cars well. I've played cars w/him, of course, & he has sat on my lap to listen to music, watch CARS-clip videos & a junkyard/car video ... multiple times. I wonder if my soon-to-be-niece will love her "Uncle Cort" as much as her brother does.... He'll be 4 in less than a month! * Walked along a path in some wetlands in town around which had been farmland until new homes were built. That's farmland lost to homes that cost more than I'll ever afford, w/new Honda Ridgelines, Toyota Priuses, Cadillac Escalades, etc., in the driveways while the 3-car garages are storage containers. Yes, "progress is progress", but sometimes I wonder. Thinking of the past is "nostalgic" & "taboo", but I sometimes wish I could see life, towns, people, etc., back when the cars I enjoy ruled the roadways, driveways & garages of the United States.... * I've wanted to move away from cold, ice & snow, but I'd miss a lot of nephew (& niece) time. Yet, depending on who is hiring, maybe a move is a chance to start over. I just hate it that family & friends are "so far away", no matter where I am.... We work too hard for too little (when employed, that is), but don't have time, energy or money for all we want to do in life. * What a life, full of twists & turns (good & bad) that we never expect. I'm not where I'd thought I'd be at this age, but that isn't necessarily bad...just frustrating, especially if I'm still unemployed come the end of December (most-likely no Christmas Eve radio show this year).... Recently, I've caught myself thinking, 'If I could just get around this corner, I can start my life.' Except, physically I'm 39 & have turned many corners. Medically, I'm probably twice Betty White's age. Mentally, I'm still a kid-teenager-young adult trying to find...me or something. The restless unsettledness (job hunt, decreasing $$ & stuff on my mind) is increasingly frustrating. * This December will be 25 years since my original best friend died of an asthma attack, 12/27/87, 9 months after my 2nd open heart surgery. I was reminded one day when I drove my 1979 Caprice Classic to Fox River Grove-Cary IL. For as many times as I've driven that route the last month, as I headed north on IL RT 31, just north of I-90 & the Holiday Inn, a late 1970s Cadillac parked in the cemetery (east side of the road) caught my eye; I was instantly reminded that Josh is buried there. * In a few weeks, I'll celebrate the 1st anniversary of my 4th OHS. * I hope, after the election, we remember we are friends/family. Otherwise, we are in a heap of trouble, no matter who is elected. PICS! Nephew James w/his 4 MC generations, L-R = green 1970 (1st), yellow 1973-5 (2nd), yellow 1980 (3rd) & black 1986 SS (4th) Old 1979 MC emblem (similar to old 1979 Caprice Classic hood ornament emblem) w/new hood ornament, purchased in mid-1990s from GM Original 1981 MC hood ornament emblem, NO replacement needed New 1979 Caprice Classic hood ornament installed 1979 MC, 10/10/2012, during the drive that reached the 1,000-mile mark for the year. This is heading north on IL RT 47, which connects the Lincoln Highway, Route 66, US 20 & I-90. 1979 MC, 10/10/2012, after reaching 1,000 miles for 2012. Overall, the '79 MC now has over 147K miles. 1981 MC, 10/10/2012, during the drive that reached the 1,000-mile mark for the year. This is along Crawford Rd. 1981 MC, 10/10/2012, after reaching 1,000 miles for 2012. Overall, the '81 MC now has over 195K miles. 1979 Blazer & 1979 Caprice Classic dealer posters purchased from Rodney at the Morris IL Car Show/Swap Meet I miss my former MCs more than some know, but this is my soon-to-be 1989 Caprice Classic w/me looking at it Cort | 39.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 2 MCs + '79 & '89 Caprice Classics CHD.cars + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort * roadsNwheels + CapriceClassicForum = http://rdwhl-capriceclassic.proboards.com/ * "Can we stop this time or must we go again?" __ TG Sheppard __ 'Finally'

* Hindsight 20/20, I should've split this into several posts, given the # of topics, but since this is my 1st post in over a month, figured I wouldn't "bombard" ya'll w/separate posts.... 11/11/2012 GATHERING & CELEBRATION I'd love to have this at an area Forest Preserve, but given the time of year, that probably isn't best to plan. So, I'm reviewing restaurants & other possibilities. PLEASE SAVE THE DATE; hope YOU are able to join us! Timeframe: probably starting ~1p.... Other milestones... ...9th anniversary of my 3rd open heart surgery, 01/06/2003 ...25th anniversary of my 2nd OHS, March 1987 ...35th anniversary of my original OHS, November 1977 PICS ADDED TO ALBUM: https://picasaweb.google.com/knightfan26917/TheRoadmasterFiles 12 new pics are from my 75-mile drive (per MC; the longest each has had in a WHILE) 09/23/2012! Since 08/17/2012, I've driven my 2 MCs, for 2012, 610+ miles EACH; maybe I WILL drive over 1,000 miles on both yet this year.... My '81 MC surpassed 195,000 miles, 09/25/2012! (I had expected to pass the 175,000-mile mark in my now-former '87 MC LS this November.) In contrast, I've driven my 1979 Caprice Classic over 5,500 miles for the year; ~1,100 miles since 08/17/2012 & close to the 160,000-mile mark. The mileage includes a few trips west, including 2 to Freeport IL & 1 to Rochelle IL. I had planned to enjoy my 9th "major" & documented road trip (my 12th "major" overall) this year, but couldn't due to my continuing unemployment.... More highlights, including 3 from the 75-mile drive. Perhaps my creative picture-taking IS returning? 08/31/2012 ... Detailed 1979 Caprice Classic's shiny emblem & woodgrain: 08/31/2012 ... Detailed 1979 Caprice Classic's crisp chrome, deep blue color, reflective black & shiny silver: 09/09/2012 ... 1979 MC detailed; 1981 MC yet to be waxed; 1979 Caprice Classic visible in the far background. This photo reminds me of pics my sister took ~1997 of the '79 & '81 MCs at sunset at Elgin Community College. At the time, the '81 still had the Malibu hubcaps. Then, like now, the '79 & '81 are the only MCs..... 09/12/2012 ... 1979 & 1981 MCs: 09/15/2012 ... 1979 Caprice Classic & 1981 MC, both w/1979 hubcaps: 09/15/2012 ... 1981 MC, 1979 Caprice Classic, 1979 MC hood ornaments: 09/15/2012 ... 1981 & 1979 MC dealer posters hanging in my re-arranged room: 09/23/2012 ... 1979 Caprice Classic; heading home from an afternoon of driving my MCs, along US RT 20 E: 09/23/2012 ... 1979 MC along Plank Rd, E towards Burlington IL: 09/23/2012 ... 1981 MC along Melms Rd, E outside of Hampshire IL: Cort | 39.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 2 MCs + 1979 Caprice Classic CHD.cars + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort *** 3rd GEN MC (1978,1979,1980) FORUM > http://thirdgenmontes.proboards.com/ *** "The thing I find most amazing in amazing grace is the chance to give it out" __ Brandon Heath __ 'I'm Not Who I Was'

"I kept my heart hidden" __ Bryan White __ 'So Much For Pretending' I've debated whether or not to post (albeit a long one), but since I have pics & thoughts to share, why not? Perhaps my screenname should now be "CAPRICE_knight"...! GATHERING & CELEBRATION Sunday, 11/11/2012 ... BOOK IT! Plans & Details TBD To spend time w/people, including YOU!, on the 1st anniversary of my 2011 open heart surgery Elgin IL area, no matter the weather Interested? Contact me: faithcubsmc2691 @ aol.com (or) 847- 337- 9897 (or) https://www.facebook.com/knightcaprice269177989 (or) https://www.facebook.com/events/154841674654448/ ALL new 75 photos (& captions, relative to THIS post) are here: https://picasaweb.google.com/knightfan26917/TheRoadmasterFiles I didn't have much "creativity" in taking pics for a while, but that seems to be returning (compared to some of my other pics on my picasa site).... OLDER CARS & DETAILING I detailed my 1979 Caprice Classic for the 1st time in over 2 years, 08/29/2012. Cleaning took 11 hours (7:30a-6:30p) minus ~45 minutes for lunch & 4 afternoon breaks, ~10 minutes each. In the afternoon, a young couple walked by; the guy asked how much. I told him $1 million. He laughed & said, "No seriously." I said, "Seriously, 1 million". I told him about my unemployment & medical bills & the lady said to him, "Ya know, you should just leave him alone. He's been cleaning that car since early this morning." The guy then said, "I always love walking by this house. It's nice to see older cars being used." I must've had a weird look on my face (the other car that sits outside here is a Cobalt) because he quickly added, "I've seen other cars. You had a blue Monte Carlo, & a few others, right?" I relaxed a bit & nodded, explaining why they were gone/sold. Then, he said, "Well, I'd love to buy this Caprice, but I can't afford that high price" ... & chuckled. I just smiled; they turned & walked away. I wonder how many people notice & appreciate older cars being used/driven.... I finally WASHED my 2 remaining (for now...) MCs (1979 & 1981), 09/06/2012. In doing so, I noticed that the '79 & '81 are the only MCs I've owned that do NOT have Ch#$r%*et on them SOMEWHERE. The '72 has it on the wheels; the '76 has it in the bowtie under the rear nameplate; the '87 (& '88) has it plastered on the driver's side of the trunk lid & on the passenger's side of the dashboard. HA! NO...I'm not bitter...not me.... Ironically, my rear-wheel-drive-only 1979 Caprice Classic has it on the front & back! With the help of a friend, the 2 MCs were then detailed (I did the interior; he did most of the waxing/polishing) 09/09/2012. Without his help, they would most-likely not have been cleaned this year. 08/17/2012 ... 1st day MCs out this year; prior to ANY cleaning: 1979 Caprice Classic, after detailing: The Family of 3, after detailing: Notice the reflections in the 1979 MC & 1979 Caprice Classic fenders: WANT TO DRIVE/OWN During my continuing unemployment, the only show I've allowed myself to watch during the day (except for Jeopardy!), is Rockford Files (1974-80), on ME-TV. When I watch, I'm reminded that, perhaps, I was born in the wrong decade. Call it nostalgic, wistful, sentimental, or whatever, but each episode, I see many cars (particularly w/my MC family gone) that I'd LOVE to own or just simply drive ... Jim's Pontiac Firebird, Ford LTDs & Thunderbirds, Lincoln Continentals, Dodge Chargers & Coronets, Plymouth Furys, Caprice Classics, Buicks, Oldsmobiles, etc. Each episode has memorable quotes, but a recent was KITT saying to James: "Mr. Rockford, you are coming dangerously close to contempt of court...again!" Course, William Daniels was a few years from being KITT, but it was still weird. Another episode, "Sleight of Hand", was based on a novel, "Thin Air". It piqued my interest &, while I can't quite put my finger on it, is an episode that connected w/me.... http://www.avclub.com/articles/the-rockford-files-sleight-of-hand,54582/ I am, actually, hoping to get 1 of the following for a "summer" daily driver: 1989 Caprice Classic sedan 1992-3 Buick Roadmaster sedan 1976-7 Ford LTD sedan MEET UPS Labor Day weekend, a friend from TX, Robert, was in Geneva IL visiting another friend in the area. I stayed with Robert in the Dallas TX area during my 2011 road trip, so I made a point to see him Monday. [i was flabbergasted at all of the businesses I saw open during my 50-mile drives in both of my dirty (at the time) MCs & my drive in my clean 1979 Caprice Classic back'n'forth to Geneva. Didn't businesses used to be CLOSED on Holidays?] During our visit, we reviewed some of my old road trip pics. As I looked at them, I was struck by just how many people I've met over the years & STILL keep in touch. Others I miss, even though I don't know where they are today.... Tuesday, 09/04/2012 (the day I was supposed to drive to Tallahassee FL on my 2012 road trip), I didn't get to watch The Rockford Files because I drove to Freeport IL to help with a Farmer's Market (had a blast & my friends sent me home w/goodies!), but I felt like I had a mini roll in an episode w/the cars I saw (minus Jim's Pontiac), kicked off by a black 1977 Lincoln Town Car at the gas station in Burlington IL. Of ALL the days to forget my camera.... In all, I saw ... (2) 1979ish Ford Thunderbirds, (1) tan 1976 Caprice Classic sedan, (1) blue 1971ish Caprice Classic coupe, (1) white 1978/1979 Chrysler Cordoba, (1) 1977ish Ford LTD, (1) 2-tone blue 1980s Ford LTD Crown Victoria (at the Farmer's Market in Freeport IL), & yes, MCs...(1) orange w/tan vinyl top 1977, (1) red 1971, (1) maroon 1986-88 LS. Saturday, 09/08/2012, I drove my 1979 Caprice Classic to Rochelle IL for lunch to meet friends traveling from Wisconsin back home to Missouri. Sunday, 09/16/2012, an "impromptu" Elgin-area gathering with Jon, Kelly & Matt. We had lunch at Buffalo Wild Wings (S Elgin IL), then drove to Plato Center so Kelly & Matt could see my MCs. It was an awesome afternoon. The "lunch fleet", L-R, my 1979 Caprice Classic, Matt's CC wagon & Jon's LTD wagon: Sunday, 09/30/2012, I'll go to Jefferson WI for the Swap Meet with a friend. 39th BIRTHDAY, 09/19/2012 Hard to believe it, but I'm 1 year closer to 40. I celebrated by watching 2 "car shows" (Knight Rider & The Rockford Files) & then driving my own "car cruise" (my '79 & '81 MCs ~40 miles each & my 1979 Caprice Classic ~50 miles). Then, a family dinner at Applebees w/some "Nephew Time"! Nephew James w/Darrell Cartrip (1976/7 2nd generation MC) & a 1970 1st generation MC HotWheels: My 1981 4th generation MC (in the family for 30 of my birthdays) & my 1979 3rd generation MC (w/me for 19 birthdays) in the mirror of my 1979 Caprice Classic (w/me for 3 birthdays)...: MISC THOUGHTS Something about September always makes me melancholy. This year, just a touch more. I was stopped in my tracks when I realized what the September monthly feature was on the NY MC Club calendar...my former MC family. I'm tired of not feeling like doing much & procrastinating. I'm also tired of failing & being unemployed. This listlessness & restlessness is not a good combination. I'm still highly embarrassed & extremely sad about what I had to do (sell 3 of my MC family) in late July. Right now, I really need a road trip (as I had planned to do the 1st 2 weeks of September), a job (so I can REALLY get "back on track"), &/or something else.... Luckily, unemployment was extended, but only until the end of December 2012. The word "depression" grates on my nerves. That's a good thing because it means I recognize it. Years ago, I was very "mad at the world"/depressed/unhappy. Then, around my 01/06/2003 open heart surgery, something "snapped"...& I realized I had to be happy. For the better part of 9 years, it worked. Perfectly. I did my road trips & met MANY people that I count as friends. Now, I wish my overall discouragement would stop increasing. BUT, life IS still good. It is interestingly amazing how some things just make you smile & energize you, even at the weirdest times. Finally, ya'll have been warned my "big heart" is gone. So, this is the society we want? ...Convict a person based on "hearsay" evidence, but not convict a company based on FACTS? ...Hurl personal insults, threats, daggers at each other over what politicians "promise", but not take into account that what we say MAY involve loved ones? ...Watch politicians spend outrageous amounts on campaigns, but not find money for pressing issues? ...Use health issues (like my congenital heart defect) for political gain, even though health issues do not see Republican, Democrat, male, female, rich, poor, etc.? ...Have businesses open on "holidays" (Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day), but not support home-town entrepreneurs? ...Say we support each other & promise to assist, but when needed the most, ignore each other, go silent, say the "what not to say" phrases, or not fulfill our agreements? ...Expect donations for worthy causes, but then not acknowledge the generosity? ...Witness a church spend $20,000 per MONTH on a mortgage, while individuals struggle to make ends meet &/or are forced to sell prized possessions due to unemployment & medical bills? ...Instead of telling people to "never forget", shouldn't we ACT like we "always remember", w/the same friendliness & caring displayed towards each other in the weeks immediately after 09/11/2001? Just sayin'. 3 more "photo highlights": Part of my new "MC family", L-R (counterclockwise) = green 1970, red/black 1971, silver 1972, yellow 1973, dark brown 1977, light brown 1979, maroon 1987 Aero, black 1986 SS, 1987 NASCAR SS Aero, 1999/2000 Intimidator Concept, 1983 NASCAR SS: 09/15/2012 ... It's logical, right, to start a project LATE on a Saturday night that you know you can't completely finish (which frustrates you) & then take some "half-hearted" pics just to show you've done something? 2 of the pics... ...display case: ...dresser top: Cort | 39.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 2 MCs + 1979 Caprice Classic CHD.cars + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort * roadsNwheels + CapriceClassicForum = http://rdwhl-capriceclassic.proboards.com/ * "Summer has come & passed" __ Green Day __ 'Wake Me Up When September Ends'

Yes, that it does..... Me, too ... from personal experience ... in too many ways, some that can't be shared here. I'm guessing this is a GOOD thing...? Oh ... if only.......... *sighs* "When we make choices we gotta live with them" __ Darius Rucker __ 'Don't Think I Don't Think About It' I am amazed by (& somewhat speechless about) the replies here & via Emails/PMs/FB. Thank you doesn't seem to be enough. I know I have support from friends/family (even those who've been silent), but that only goes so far...I don't have a "we". Even so, perhaps "goodbye" is a bit harsh; maybe "see you down the road" is better.... Someone mentioned that maybe my "miracle" is just being alive & I should be happy with that. I can't argue; perhaps life turning around for me is too much to ask. As someone else told me personally, while we are not given more than we can handle, we are, generally given what we deserve. I take that FWIW. Fighting pneumonia, searching for a new job & paying medical bills isn't fun, but I'm still trying to look ahead & keep up hope/spirits/positivity.... But, I'd be lying if I said I didn't cry the last weekend of July. Talk about TOUGH, in many ways. The '72 left Saturday; the '76 & '87 left Sunday. All 3 are now in new homes, better than what I could ever give them.... '72 to Minnesota '76 to far northern IL '87 to MIchigan The '81 will go to either my parents or sister/bro-in-law. Meanwhile, in a strange twist of fate, my '79 MC will remain mine, for now. So, I will have a '79 MC & a 1979 Caprice Classic. I will continue the 3rd generation MC board & be active there: http://thirdgenmontes.proboards.com/index.cgi? [The 6th generation yahoo group, after consulting with Rob (who created it 12 years ago), will most-likely be closed.] I'll also be on the Roads'n'Wheels/Caprice Classic Forum: http://rdwhl-capriceclassic.proboards.com/ Or, of course, FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/knightcaprice269177989 If interested, check out my website BEFORE it changes. Right now, it includes road trip pics, my MC story, radio show playlist, different collections, etc.: http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort/'>http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort/ Additional pics (including Route 66 & other recent road trips) are here: http://picasaweb.google.com/knightfan26917 7 "last" pictures.... 07/28/2012 ... Last day all 5 of my MCs are a family. Seen best here: 1987 (blue), 1979 (green), 1981 (tan). 07/28/2012 ... Last day all 5 of my MCs are a family. Seen best here: 1981 (tan), 1972 (brown), 1976 (black). 07/28/2012 ... My 1972 MC sold & ready to go to its new home: 07/29/2012 ... My 1976 MC sold & ready to go to its new home. Look at that dirty, but still shiny, bumper. 07/29/2012 ... My 1976 MC sold & ready to go to its new home. Once again, I see that "frown" in the tail end ... the same "frown" I saw in my parents' 1976 MC when we traded it, September 1984. 07/29/2012 ... My 1987 MC sold & ready to go to its new home. By the time this one was out the door of the garage/storage barn, I couldn't take it anymore. After the new owner left, I sat in my '81 MC for almost an hour. I don't think I need to spell out the emotions.... This is the one that my nephew had "claimed" just 8 months prior.... 07/29/2012 ... & then there were 2; 1981 MC (tan) & 1979 MC (light green). While you can't see it all that well in this shot, the '81 MC has the now former plates of my '76 (SECND 76) & '87 (CDS MC 87) MCs, while the '79 MC holds the former plate of my '72 MC (BRWNY 72). I had taken another pic with flash, but this one seems a bit more ... appropriate. Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | '79 MC + 1979 Caprice Classic CHD.MC.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "Lately I've been thinking I should move away" __ Eddy Money __ 'I'll Get By'

"Finding trust & love is not always easy to make" __ Yael Naim __ 'New Soul' After experiencing a roller coaster last weekend of July, I decided to post 1 last "commentary". We live in a very small world. And, we don't always realize it. Fellow "roadie" Denny G & I have had several "misses" meeting in person, including a stop in Amarillo TX in 2011. We were in that town the SAME night, but didn't realize it until a day or so later while comparing "current road trip" notes. So, when Denny told me about his Route 66 trip this year, we were determined to meet. Before he left, we briefly discussed the possibility of me driving with him to St Louis, Friday, 07/27/2012. But, as it became clear that I had to sell my MCs, those plans were abandoned, like many a town & business along Route 66. So, once Denny landed in Braidwood IL Thursday evening, 07/26/2012, we quickly planned a dinner meeting at Culver's, along IL RT 47, Yorkville IL. While it was our first time meeting in person, it certainly didn't take us long to jump into discussions of road trips, fellow friends & life in general. Halfway through our meeting, a couple enter Culver's. I immediately recognized the gal, though I wasn't sure it was who I thought it was. With their kids, the couple sat in the booth behind me. As they got up to leave, I interrupted Denny & turned to them, asking if I knew them. When I mentioned my sister's name, the connection was made. The lady is a friend of my sister's from church camp. Imagine meeting her & her family there at that particular moment in time. I had a great visit with Denny & look forward to meeting him again. Driving home, my thoughts turned to the upcoming weekend & the departure of 3 of my MCs. To say the weekend was rough just doesn't quite cover it. Watching my "babies" leave, it was tough knowing that my "car family" is forever changed & my 10-year dream came to an abrupt, frustrating, depressing ... end. But, the weekend had an awesome ending! A little under a year ago, an Australian couple I met during my September 2009 Route 66 road trip Emailed me to tell me they were planning another adventure "in the states". Their plans included a drive between Green Bay WI & Cleveland OH & a stop in Elgin IL. Details were worked out to meet Sunday evening, 07/29/2012. Perfect timing to lift my spirits after an emotionally "character building" 2 days. I found out that the stop in Elgin was simply to see me. It was great to have dinner with them; we talked about just about everything ... the Olympics, the selling of my beloved MCs, old cars, new cars, front wheel vs. rear wheel drive, unemployment, medical expenses, "politics", etc. It was definitely the highlight of the 2-day weekend. They continued their USA excursion (6 weeks total) the next morning. 2012 picture w/link to the 2009 pic in the caption: https://picasaweb.google.com/knightfan26917/MISC#5771746599231477586 I still think this is my #1 "small world" story, best told in the caption of this 2006 road trip picture: http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort/roadtrips/1106/DSC07591r8_jpg.html'>http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort/roadtrips/1106/DSC07591r8_jpg.html So, what's the point? Simple! Travel (&/or) attend cruise nights, shows, gatherings, events. Meet people. Engage in conversation. Let the topics flow. You'll be surprised at what you have in common or how you are connected, even if you have differing opinions on specific topics. Heck, you might just add a friend or 2. Just sayin'. Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | '79 MC + 1979 Caprice Classic CHD.MC.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "I've always seen myself as a hopeless romantic" __ Gary Morris & Crystal Gayle __ 'Another World'

"I'm walking down the lonely street of dreams" __ Whitesnake __ 'Here I Go Again On My Own' I never thought I'd say or type these words... "My Monte Carlos are sold." That is, they'll be gone by the end of this weekend (last of July 2012), unless a "miracle" happens yet this week (don't see that being the case). I wouldn't have believed it if someone had told me while I was on my 2011 9,000+ mile road trip that, in the next 12+ months, I'd... ...have my 4th open heart surgery 11/11/2011 (will have another CT scan in mid-August) ...lose my job less than 3 weeks after returning to full-time (still searching) ...attend the 2012 MC Nationals & be hospitalized w/pneumonia 6 hours after returning home (still on medication) ...& be "monte less" (due to medical bills, etc.; my cars are considered "assets").... But, all of that has/is happening. So, with my MCs gone, it is time to stop prolonging the inevitable & say goodbye. A few weeks ago, I happened to see the series finale of "Frasier", the popular "Cheers" spin-off. At the end of the episode, Frasier quotes a shortened version of Alfred Lord Tennyson's "Ulysses": "It may be that the gulfs will wash us down; It may be we shall touch the Happy Isles, And though we are not now that strength which in old days Moved earth and heaven, that which we are, we are— Made weak by time and fate, but strong in will; To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield." After reciting the poem, Frasier remarks: "I’ve been thinking about that poem a lot lately, & I think what it says is that, while it’s tempting to play it safe, the more we’re willing to risk, the more alive we are. In the end, what we regret most are the chances we never took." I've taken chances & let chances slip away. Since I'll be "free-er", maybe it's time to take a few more chances. Saying goodbye is one; life has a way of changing us in ways we never expect. While I am very unhappy right now, perhaps my MCs are better off with new owners. Maybe I'm better off, too; after all, my rear-wheel-drive-only-nameplate Caprice Classic (1979 sedan) remains with me. "Another dream that ended way too soon" __ Restless Heart __ 'The Bluest Eyes In Texas' It has been a great run, though, owning 5 MCs for 9 years, 1 for ~20 years. I've met many of you in person via my road trips, cruise nights, events & car shows, including the 2008 MidSummer Chitown Gathering, which set a record of 65 people & is the ONLY gathering/event that ALL of my MCs attended together: http://pics.projectmonte.com/album/12498 "This is just a stop on the way to where I'm going" __ Carrie Underwood __ 'Temporary Home' Since I'll no longer visit here regularly, if you want to keep in contact, please do via my... ...website (changes soon?)...: http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort/'>http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort/ ...recently-reactivated Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/knightcaprice269177989 ...EM & PH#: faithcubsmc2691 @ aol.com 847- 337- 9897 ...Roads'n'Wheels/Caprice Classic Forum: http://rdwhl-capriceclassic.proboards.com/ For now, I will continue to own the 3rd generation MC board... http://thirdgenmontes.proboards.com/index.cgi? ...& run the 6th generation MC group... http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/y2kmontecarloclub/ ...though, if anyone is interested in taking them over, please let me know. I think that's it. I'd like to share more, but this post would be too long. Perhaps it IS too long for "goodbye". As a famous sportscaster said at the end of every baseball telecast, "So long, everybody!" Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | "only child" 1979 Caprice Classic CHD.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "I hope life will treat you kind" __ Dolly Parton __ 'I Will Always Love You'

* Since late April when we first learned my sister is pregnant with their 2nd child, my nephew has been adamant that he is having a little sister. When asked if a baby brother was OK, he simply replied, "I'm having a little sister!" Last week, my nephew's wishes were confirmed ... my little sister is having a girl! My niece should arrive in late November. My nephew is THRILLED! Being an uncle the last 3+ years has been awesome. I originally honed my "corrupting skills" for friends' kids, but I've perfected them with my nephew. When I was in the hospital last week, he brought the "Monte Carlo" bear (that I bought him) to help me get out of the hospital quicker.... Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | "only child" 1979 Caprice Classic CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort * roadsNwheels + CapriceClassicForum = http://rdwhl-capriceclassic.proboards.com/ "One more sad story's one more than I can stand" __ Anne Murray __ 'A Little Good News'

Had spotty showers in the area yesterday (Saturday). Some areas got inches of rain, others, nothing. Not good. Heat is returning ... lower 90s today, upper 90s Monday and Tuesday, then dropping to the 80s Wednesday. Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | "only child" 1979 Caprice Classic CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "This is not where you belong" __ Trapt __ 'Head Strong'

That was kinda my thought, too. At first, I was thinking that certainly couldn't be the same car ... LOL! I'm glad, too, that they aren't going to roll in another frame. I think that would've been a mistake, in more ways than one.... Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | "only child" 1979 Caprice Classic CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "Mistakes become regrets" __ Carolina Liar __ 'Show Me What I'm Looking For'

Agreed. Which is why I was so surprised I hadn't heard anything recently, until.... This is 1 of 2 articles I "unearthed" after I posted this originally. Amazing what you can find online, isn't it? Here is the 2nd one I found: http://retrorides.proboards.com/index.cgi?board=general&action=display&thread=118220 Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 1 Caprice Classic CHD.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "If I only knew then what I know now" __ Lee Greenwood __ 'Fool's Gold'

Aye ... such senseless loss. Thoughts/prayers to the families/friends of all those involved..... Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "Death tore the pages all away" __ Kenney Chesney __ 'Who You'd Be Today'

Ah, COOL! Pics or video of it, too, please? And, thank you. Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 5 MCs + 1 Caprice Classic CHD.MCs.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort "Sometimes it seems like this world's closing in on me" __ Bad English __ 'When I See You Smile'

Believe people when they tell you that a hot gal is interested in you. 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 can call it life and say that it's not right" __ Mel McDaniel __ 'I Call It Love'

* The June 2007 story grabbed my attention: 1957 Plymouth Belvedere unearthed in Tulsa OK, a Route 66 town. I know several people who were there in person. I watched it live on the internet before we left for Dad's team's softball game that Friday evening. The car has been above ground 5 years, after being under ground 50. But, hardly any news; my main 2 sources don't seem to be very up-to-date. Maybe I'm the only one curious as to what has happened or is happening to the car...? Or, maybe I've just missed recent news? 1 of 2: http://www.unburiedcar.com/ 2 of 2: http://www.ridrust.com/missbelvedere.asp Cort | 38.m.IL | pigValve + paceMaker + cowValve | 1 Caprice Classic CHD.CC + RoadTrips.hobbies.RadioShows.us66 = http://www.chevyasylum.com/cort * roadsNwheels + CapriceClassicForum = http://rdwhl-capriceclassic.proboards.com/ "Something's haunting you" __ Marty Robbins __ 'Some Memories Just Won't Die'