The Pit

The Belle Isle Grand Prix was a Viper Club of America nationally organized event that invited the local regions to take part in what was to be an exciting (and historic) weekend as Indy returned to Belle Isle!

A 982-acre island in the Detroit River, Belle Isle was home to the Detroit Grand Prix from 1992-2001, utilizing a temporary street circuit that was constructed specifically for the CART races. New for 2007, it again hosted open-wheel cars with the Indy Racing League now sanctioning the event. It was to be a big Viper weekend, as owners were asked to bring their cars for a Viper display (and some other added fun)!

The number of Vipers allowed at this event was only 50, with a limit of 120 total club members. Word came on a Friday a few weeks before the event and the box office opened, the rush was on!

The IL club, never being a group to be subtle (or do anything in small numbers for that matter) began pouncing early on the available spots. By the end of the first day there were already 6 IL Club members registered to make the long journey with their cars. By the end of the weekend we had over a dozen members! The event sold out in a mere 3 days! When the box office was finally closed, yes folks, the IL Viper Club had the highest number of cars AND the greatest number of participants than any other region. We had a total of 14 cars and 26 IL Region members ready to be a part of the grand event. A testament to our synergy as a club and joy to be a part of the Viper nation!

Even at a national event, the IL club always likes to sprinkle some special IL Region moments into the mix. Since we had a large number of cars traveling many hours across three states, the IL Club did some coordination to keep us all together and have some fun getting there… time for a group cruise! We decided to cruise up there early the day before the event began. There were two groups defined, those trailering and those driving their Vipers to Detroit making stops along the way. On Thursday, both groups met at the same location (at different times) and began their long trek together and converge on Detroit. Awaiting us in Detroit was a dinner night out for all of the IL Region members. Reservations were made at Champs and the whole group was going to get together to kick the weekend off in style!

The weather forecast for the weekend was PERFECT. No one could remember a time we've experienced the exceptional weather we had for any Viper event int he past that lasted this many days (speaking for the midwest). The weather was completely clear, sunny, and 80 degrees!

Vipers began to roll into town around 6:00pm. There was a slate gray modified race Viper sitting in front of the hotel (the same one that was at the Detroit auto show) courtesy of the Dodge boys. We knew we were at the right place. The hotel for the event was the Troy Marriot and conference Center. Most members got settled at the hotel then made their way over to Champs for a club dinner with the guys who drove straight to the restaurant! The dinner was over 3 hours long, members gabbed and had a good time ringing in the coming weekend!

The club members filled the hotel that evening, along with other regions. You could feel the energy as the next day approached. Though initially the plan was to tour the Conner Avenue Assembly plant, that tour was canelled due to logistics within the plant given the activities in preparation for the new 08 cars. It was substituted with a tour of Saleen. While some members were disappointed, many were optimistic given that no one has really toured their facility before and also because Saleen rarely offers a look behind the scenes to just anyone wishing to catch a glipse of their operation.

Friday came! Members registered at the hotel lobby and received their passes, wrist bands, and a great goodie bag! Shortly thereafter a large Viper caravan was assembled and we headed to our first stop, Saleen!

Yes, the folks at Saleen will be doing the paint and finish work on the body panels for the 2008 Vipers. They graciously allowed us to enter their huge facility and tour every inch. The plant was also filled with Saleen cars, everything from mustangs, to pick ups, to GT40's... and yes the infamous S7 (there were two). Members were also given rides among a group of choice Saleen cars. We learned about how comprehensive a company Saleen was. This was truly a first rate operation and a pleasing substitution!

At Saleen we got a good glimpse at the stages of preparation for all the body panels on the new Viper. They were actually working on the Viper parts when we toured. The plant was filled with Viper hoods, trunk lids, and quarter panels. We got to see the new wild colors for the 2008’s, many members purchasing 2008’s were finally able to view the new colors up close. And yes, last but not least, there was a 2008 blue Viper parked toward the end of the tour. Everyone got a chance to see the finished product. It was in full blue without stripes, a site to see! The tour ended with a nice lunch within their facility and some free time to mill around.

The museum was setup nicely when we arrived. a terrific display of Chrysler products was waiting for us out front. Inside, all members could peruse the exhibits, Catered food and open bar was provided. There were three floors filled with antique cars, concept cars, and other neat stuff. Members hung out for a couple hours and got their fill. Toward the end of the evening, the plan for all visitors was to bus back to the hotel at 9:00pm. But an IL gathering was planned that evening at a special restaurant and we pulled some strings to get an earlier bus to get us and bring the group back. When the group arrived at the hotel, a wonderful dinner was in store.

Saturday was our first day in Belle Isle. Our group decided to leave the hotel and arrive around lunch as a group. The coordination there was exemplary. Entering the huge event was easy and well defined with plenty of people to guide you in.

Vipers had great island parking (most passenger cars had to park off the island and actually ferry in). The dozens of Vipers parked along side each other in a great display. There were Vipers in two rows as far as the eye could see. Members took pictures and conversed. Shortly thereafter, members headed off to the Viper Chalet. Food was served outdoors under raised floor tents, the accommodations were great.

Our club President, Alex Ristanovic, was lucky enough to be the lead car for the Vipers on the track. With strobe lights lit, the first lap began. There was only one thing we didn’t expect, this would be no ORDINARY parade lap. The IMSA official leading the group with Alex happened to be quite the veteran racer and answered the earlier pleas of group to allow for some “fun”. Little did we know what would shortly follow... As the cars came to the end of their first lap, cars were slowed for a photo app as they passed the Dodge sign. The IMSA official made a call to their leadership and requested some "flex". They responded with “take the slow photo opp, after that, I’ll leave it up to you guys”. It was at this point a smile overcame Alex and the IMSA official. The lead car put the pedal to the floor and the cars were off! Alex says that the speedometer broke 110 several times. The Vipers were on a wonderful melee of gas and brake! Members really got a chance to truly feel out the track! And not 1, not 2, but 4 laps of the course ensued! What an unbelievable rush!

Many cars daring to tame the open track consistently teased the 100mph mark as they approached some tight corners. Many club racing veterans were in their element! This was TRULY an experience. The cars slowed as they approached their exit on the fourth lap. They were lead by IMSA back to the Viper corral parking area. Members got out of their cars in disbelief of what just happened. There were smiles and high-fives all around as members realized a fantasy!

Members were on a high and headed for the Viper Chalet tent to grab a bite and enjoy the rest of the day. Excitement was brewing over the anticipation of the Indy race. The paddock and pits were an exciting place at this time watching the high dollar preparations and display of horsepower just feet from onlookers. There were a few star struck folks as a few celebrities were spotted posing for pictures.

At 3:00pm, the Indy cars took the track and one of the most exciting Indy car races ensued. Members were on cloud nine, they truly felt the weekend was fulfilling. As the race was drawing to a close, club members slowly began to dissipate and head home. The day ended with a one hour concert by Uncle Kracker!

It’s often that we have a good time with our cars, but this weekend was not only a great national event, and a great gathering for IL region members themselves, but a very unique and action packed weekend. Members were thoroughly pleased and the drive home was filled with memories and pictures to last a lifetime! There were rumors of a repeat for next year, but with an even more special twist! News to come!

Bobby Anderson, Denver Broncos Running Back
Dick Anderson, Miami Dolphins All-Pro Safety
Donny Anderson, NFL Running Back
Dave Archer, NFL Quarterback
John Ashton, Actor
Jon Barry, NBA Guard
Kurt Bevacqua, Baseball Major Leaguer
Kevin Butler, NFL Chicago Bears Kicker
Steve Cochran, Chicago Radio Host
John Congemi, CFL Quarterback/NFL Color Analyst
Al DelGreco, All-Pro NFL Placekicker
Tom Dreesen, Comedian
John Ebersole, New York Jets Linebacker
Rollie Fingers, Hall of Fame Pitcher
Brian Kinchen, NFL Tight End
Tommy Maddox, NFL Quarterback
Ed Marinaro, Actor/ NFL Running Back
Jim McMahon, Chicago Bears All-Pro Quarterback
Joe Morgan, MLB Hall of Fame Second Baseman
Browning Nagle, NFL Quarterback

Cliff Richey, Tennis Champion and Davis Cup MVP
Smokey Robinson, Grammy Award Winning Performer
Truck Robinson, NBA All-Star Forward
Scott Sanderson, MLB Pitcher
Mike Siani, NFL Wide Receiver
Greg Stefan, NHL All-Star
Sherwood Stewart, Wimbledon Champion
Dale Tallon, NHL All-Star
Ralph Terry, New York Yankees Pitcher
Mickey Tettleton, MLB All-Star Catcher
Joe Theismann, NFL Quarterback
Gorman Thomas, All-Star Major Leaguer
Jim Thorton, former Chicago Bear Tight End
Billy Joe Tolliver, NFL Quarterback
Andy Van Slyke, All-Star Center Fielder
Darren Veitch, NHL Standout
Ed Westfall, NHL All - Star
Walter Ray Williams, Hall of Fame Bowler
Adrian Young, Drummer
Shane Rawley, Major League Pitcher

The American Cancer Society hosts a continuing event called “Relay for Life”. This event is designed to bring together those who have been touched by cancer. Few events that we do provide this type of satisfaction, the biggest factor in this case being the sheer number of folks who came out to support this small town and for a good cause.

The plan initially started with a couple cars planning to make the trek up to Wisconsin. Our appearance would take place on a weekday, during the day, in a place at least 150 miles from most of our club members.

We decided to open it up to members through an email, thinking perhaps we’d only have a few more takers at best. Well… only 2 days and nearly 25 volunteers later we realized this was going to be huge.

By the day of the event, we had 30 club members and 20 Vipers converging on the small town! The police were aware of our presence, there were announcements made on the radio, and we even made front page news in the Beaver Dam paper! Wow!

The day of the event, the weather ended up being truly wonderful, given that there was actually a threat of rain issued. Many of the Viper club members met at Woodfield mall to cruise up there together. The Vipers left Woodfield at 10:30am and headed down the highway, making one planned stop at a rest area along the way. After speaking with eager onlookers, the Vipers made their way to Rick Reed Dodge to prep their cars, grab some lunch, and get briefed for the event.

The plan was to provide charity rides and raise excitement and awareness for the cause. A special route was prepared that the Vipers test drove beforehand, which would be used to provide rides to people who donated to the American Cancer Society. Donations of $20 would get you in a 15 minute ride in one of the most attention getting cars on the planet. The Vipers were parked near the entrance of the school track where the Relay for Life was being held. Excited patrons got to pick the Viper of their choice. They would simply point, and the Viper they chose would pull up and the fun would begin. Well, while the word “spirited driving” can be interpreted many ways, it was clear in the eyes of those returning from their rides that this was something they would remember forever.

The event paused at 6:00pm for the opening festivities and survivor walk. It was a touching ceremony, Spencer topped it off with an amazing rendition of our national anthem! After the survivor walk, and after watching tons of balloons rise to the heavens, our club members returned to their cars to continue their efforts.

The engines could be heard miles away, and the smiles could be seen for about as far. The Vipers were busy well past 8:00pm. The club gave 70 charity rides that day (lucky we came with so many cars!).

At the close of the event, members began to disband and the event drew to a close with the beautiful sunset. We were given a warm and wonderful thank you from the host of the event with an invite to come back and help them again next year… you bet!

Big thanks to the Schumann’s for their efforts in coordinating the event with us and providing food and tents! Big thanks to Howie Frank for printing “Viper Route” signs that were put all over town! Thanks to Gale Merz who took photos and actually printed them onsite for all those who took rides! Thanks to one of our sponsors, Jon Brobst from Parts Rack, who provided some wonderful Viper related giveaways for the crowd! And lastly, our biggest thanks to all the members who donated their time and their cars to put smiles on hundreds of faces and raise a lot of money for a good cause. Another example of the IL region crowd and the heart that beats within this great club. Kudos on a job well done!!

Every year the Viper Club of Illinois hosts a wondrous gala and this year was no exception! Nearly 1/3 of our entire club membership converged at Carlucci’s of Downers Grove and had the time of their lives (and that’s without more than 15 regulars who couldn’t be there due to conflicts!).

The room was decorated wonderfully. Custom Viper Club centerpieces (arranged by Denise Braun) adorned every table. The room was dimly lit with an atmosphere of comfort. Both live and silent auction items were on display for everyone to peruse. Our club banners were hung on the walls and a giant video screen was setup with the new club afterglow DVD playing in the background. The stage was set.

The party began with a cocktail hour that gave attendees a chance to mingle. All guests received a goodie bag when they entered, what a goodie bag it was! Each bag contained a car battery maintainer (thank you Mark Les), an Illinois club sticker, Roanoke Motor mug, 2006 Afterglow DVD, 2-for-1 fuel stabilizer coupon, and various literature from sponsors. Members reconnected with those they haven’t seen in months and shared drinks for an hour as the party got in full swing.

The festivities began with Gary Grube (current Vice President) introducing Alex Ristanovic, the new President of the club. After an amazingly warm welcome from the guests (and an applause that lasted far too long for his comfort!), he introduced the rest of the club officers. The energy expressed from the members was truly felt as those who stepped up to their responsibilities were offered a warm and appreciative welcome!

After the greetings, dinner kicked off with wonderful array of entrees from pastas, to chicken, to steak…. All the way down to a wonderful tiramisu. Half way through the dinner, the first half of the free raffle began and club members were tantalized with the first round of giveaways!

The evening continued with our resident videophile Gary Grube energizing the audience with yet another custom made production that made us tear with laughter. After the video presentation, Alex Ristanovic offered a few words about the aggressive goals the club has set and the significant change already implemented. In addition, a brief overview of the new performance driving program was provided. Lastly, Alex spoke about the very successful (and critical) sponsorship program

and thanked all those who contributed and helped posture the club for a tremendous year of success! Then, the unveiling of the 2007 annual club banner took place, it was quite the popular item. Our inventory of the framed versions of the banner completely sold out, and nearly half of the guests/couples at the party bought either the banner or the poster. Wow! Thank you to all who purchased them, this is a great fund raiser for the club and a tradition that will continue!

Then the second half of the raffle ensued, guests were adorned with more wonderful gifts. There was even a special women’s auction that had items like Longenberger baskets (thank you Stephanie Cole), scented candles, Mary Kay basket (thank you Tracy Sampognaro), and a beautiful women’s bracelet.

Then began the live auction… Jhan Dolphin led the spectacle with a brilliant performance. And, a club first, a “professional spotter” (or we were told…) volunteered to help in the auction: Bill Lamb, dressed in a tuxedo (yes, you heard right) helped energize the group.

Jhan and Bill worked through the auction items making us laugh all the way while raising money for the club. Some of the items included rare collectibles, custom made Viper art, VOI9 merchandise, Viper Days certificates, and the #1 2007 Viper Club Illinois license plate (fetching nearly $1000 alone!). There was even a club first! The first live bidding war over cell phone to a member (Steve Loudin) who was vacationing in Puerto Rico that week (and yes he won)!

Thank you to all those who bid and won auction items, you’re supporting the club in a big way!

The evening ended with a giveaway of all the custom centerpieces, an end to our silent auction, and a few closing words from Alex. The last folks left near midnight!

This was a big event to put on (and run smoothly)! Thank you Bill and Tracy Sampognaro for helping to arrange the event! Thank you to others: Jeremy Walker, Stephanie Cole, Denise Braun, Mark Les, Tom Householder, and Bill Lamb for donating or helping at the event. Thanks to many of the club officers for their help in arranging and setting up. A big thank you to our sponsors for making this possible (Roanoke, Parts Rack, and Viper Days among the biggest contributors!). And lastly, to our members, thank you most of all because there would be no point in doing this if it weren’t for the best group of people on the planet! Cheers!