The Downshift - Chicagoland Sports Car Club

CSCC Officers 

Michael Schindlbeck 

President 

630-897-6246 

mk6c@aol.com 

Jay Busse 

Vice President & 

Membership Chairman 

847-742-4555 

foxpix@foxvalley.net 

Rich Cwik 

Secretary 

630-483-8799 

lotusrich@sbcglobal.net 

Larry Best 

Treasurer & 

Downshift Editor 

847-683-1028 

ljbest@foxvalley.net 

Alden Wells 

Chief Steward 

847-245-8756 

alden_racing74@yahoo.com 

Paul Schindlbeck 

630-554-2546 

pschindlbeck@comcast.net 

Frank Hartl 

847-382-4388 

scorpion39HP@Yahoo.com 

CSCC Club Access/Info 

www.cscc-racing.com 

847-683-9283 

cscc@foxvalley.net 

The Downshift 

The Off icial Publication of Chicagoland Sports Car Club 

Volume: 6 Issue: 1 January/February 2007 

CSCC Annual Awards Banquet - Top That! 

Awards are the reason we have an annual banquet, with a number of club members’ 

achievements in the 2006 competition season being duly recognized the evening of 

February 3rd at Chicagoland’s annual affair. Club President Mike Schindlbeck did the 

honors, handing out plaques to the winners (shown with Bill & Janine Milner above). 

In TA/AX, Dan Rennewanz received the championship trophy in D Modified. Dan competes 

in an ‘99 Acura Integra. 

Among the Wheel-to-Wheel competitors who actually race wheel to wheel (sans fenders) 

Club President Mike Schindlbeck took home the Club Formula Ford championship 

while Bruce Weatherston won the Formula Ford award. Mike races a red Titan Mk6C 

while Bruce competes in either a Van Diemen RF82 or Mondial FF depending, I guess, 

on whether he wakes up and wants to race in a blue car or a black car. Rounding out 

the open wheeler awards, Zarija “Doc” Djurovic took the Formula Continental honors 

in his ‘93 Euroswift FC. Bruce and Zarija also took MC championships in their respective 

classes. 

In closed wheel competition, David Tyssen claimed the title in Improved Touring B driving 

a Volkswagen Scirocco, while John Connell who campaigns a ‘70 Datsun 510 took 

home the Grand Touring 3 winner’s plaque. Meanwhile, in A Sports Racing, Andrew 

Aksyonov finished in top spot competing in a ’95 BMW M3. Both Andrew and David are 

also MC champs in their classes. 

Moving on to the special awards, on the competition side of things Andrew Aksyonov 

garnered the Rookie of the Year award for taking both the Chicagoland and MC ASR 

championships in his first season of competition. The Jim Hartman Memorial Trophy, 

awarded annually since 1966 to Chicagoland’s Driver of the Year, this year went to 

Frank Riemann. Frank, who runs a bright yellow Swift Formula Ford, has won the 

trophy twice before, the first time in 1968(!) Since the Hartman Trophy is a traveling 

award, the previous year’s winner, John Connell, was given a plaque to commemorate 

his 2005 title. 

Rounding out the honors, Janine and Bill Milner were recognized as Chicagoland’s 

Worker(s) of the Year. The Milners have headed up Midwestern Council’s Grid specialty 

for the past two years, and in addition, they were honored at January’s MC banquet 

with the annual Lou Schauppner Memorial Award. And finally, Alden Wells received the 

club’s Member of the Year prize. Alden serves as Chicagoland’s Club Steward and is 

one of the club’s MC Board representatives as well. At the track you’ll find him helping 

in Tech Inspection, Grid and just about anywhere else he can. He is also a Drivers 

School Instructor. How do you top that? 

All in all, it was grand conclusion to a great season of competition and provides some 

benchmarks for gearing up for the new season starting in a few months.

The Downshift - Page 

2007 Event Schedule 

Date Event Sponsor Venue 

Feb 24-25 GoKart Expo SODI Schbrg 

Feb 25 Swap Meet MG Club DuPage 

March 10 Worker Apprec. MC Ctg Grv 

March 24 Indoor Drvr Schl NSSCC ACCN 

March 31 Annual Tech MC Beloit 

Apr 21-22 DS/W2W FTR BHF 

April 28 Tire Wall Day GLSCC MM 

May 16-20 FSAE Comp SAE Ford 

May 26-28 TBD/W2W/TBD LSCC BHF 

Jun 9-10 AX/W2W NSSCC ACCN 

Jun 16-17 Vintage VSCDA BHF 

Jun 23-24 AX/W2W MSCC BHF 

Jul 21-22 DS/W2W LSCC/CSCC BHF 

Aug 25-26 AX/W2W SCCR BHF 

Sep 8-9 AX/W2W GLSCC MM 

Sep 22-23 TBD/W2W NSSCC RA 

Oct 6-7 AX/W2W SCSCC ACCS 

Oct 20-21 W2W CSCC BHF 

ACCN/S: Autobahn Country Club (North/South Track) Joliet, IL 

AX: Time Attack Autocross Championship Series 

BHF: Blackhawk Farms Raceway, Rockton, IL 

DS: AX & W2W Driving School 

Ford: Ford Michigan Proving Grounds, Romeo, MI 

FSAE: Formula SAE National Competition 

MM: Milwaukee Mile, West Allis (Milwaukee), WI 

NIU: Northern Illinois University, Dekalb, IL 

RA: Road America, Elkhart Lake, WI 

Vintage: VSCDA event staffed by MCSCC 

W2W: Wheel to Wheel Championship Racing Series 

The Downshift Information (The fine print) 

“The Downshift” is the official news publication of The 

Chicagoland Sports Car Club. The monthly publication 

is provided to Chicagoland Sports Car Club members 

as part of the annual membership deliverable and commitment 

from the Club. The Downshift is also available 

to interested parties for $1.50 per issue (U.S. Domestic 

postage prepaid). 

Material published herein may be reprinted provided that 

the usage is credited to the author, and the Chicagoland 

Sports Car Club. 

Opinions expressed in this publication are those of the 

authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the 

Board of Directors of Chicagoland Sports Car Club, the 

Midwestern Council of Sports Car Clubs, or it’s Board of 

Directors and Members, or in some cases, the opinion of 

anyone. 

Article submission is encouraged and accepted in MS 

Word format or as ASCII text format via eMail. When submitting 

photos or artwork, please request the material to 

be returned if that is desired. Submissions should be received 

by the third Tuesday of the month when publication 

for that month is requested. 

Contents including text, artwork and photographs Copyright 

1996 - 2007, The Downshift Newsletter. Questions 

and comments should be directed to the Editor, CSCC 

‘The Downshift’, 203 Jake Lane, Hampshire, Illinois 

60140. All inquiries will receive a prompt response. 

December 2006 CSCC Club Meeting 

Minutes of the December 27th Membership and BoD 

meeting held at Aurelio’s Pizza in Addison, Illinois. 

Attendees: Larry Best, Frank Reimann, Frank Hartl, Rich 

Cwik, Jay Busse, and Mike Schindlbeck. 

Meeting Call To Order: Meeting called to order at 8:17 

pm by el Presidente (MS) 

Previous Meeting Minutes: Approved as printed. 

Treasurer’s Report: (LB) The year-end balance in the 

treasury is approximately $25,000.00. We are investigating 

accepting credit card payments through Pay Pal. 

Move to accept Treasurer’s Report (MS) - all in favor? 

The aye’s have it. 

Steward’s Report: (LB, filling in for AW) We will have 

two races next year. We are splitting July 21 & 22 with 

LSSCC (DS & Race weekend at BFR), and the traditional 

Loooong Race weekend of October 20 & 21 (again 

across from a NASA date at Elkhart and one week ahead 

of a regional). 

Most (all) of the combining/elimination of class motions 

were defeated. 

The officers of MCSCC will remain the same for 2007. 

Nancy Harlan is (sort of) coordinating the MC Banquet. 

MCSCC is looking for Center Piece sponsors, Door Prize 

sponsors, and beverage donations. 

There is a search going on for a good logo for the 50th 

Anniversary. If you have an idea, please draw it up and 

submit it. 

VSCDA is at Autobahn July 28 & 29. Do we want to participate? 

At 8:43 pm, we opened nominations for Worker, W2W 

Driver, and Rookie Driver of the Year. 

Election Update: Semifinalists in the club election were: 

Alden Wells, Paul Schindlbeck, Frank Hartl, Frank Reimann, 

Bruce Weatherston, and Dale Kofoed. The Secretary 

will send out final ballots and banquet invitations, 

with a return date before the banquet. 

Where Is Tommy? Tommy Fennell’s first Banquet invitation 

came back marked” no such address” – does anybody 

know anything (about Tommy’s whereabouts)? 

Indoor Driver School Event: The North Suburban Indoor 

Driver’s School is at Autobahn this year. There was 

a discussion on co-branding if we contribute, do we get 

Marquee space? Do we want to contribute or just show 

up and help? 

A motion was made that we give $200.00 to NSSCC and 

members of CSCC will participate at the school. Motion 

dies for lack of second. 

There will be no January Membership and BoD meeting 

with the Banquet scheduled for February 3rd. 

Move to adjourn at 9:45 pm. Pass 

Respectfully Submitted: Rich Cwik, CSCC Secretary

Midwestern Council Annual 

WORKER APPRECIATION PARTY 

All MCSCC Members are invited to join in and recognize 

all those men, women and children who help organize our 

competition events. This party isn’t “for” the workers. It’s 

for all Council folk who appreciate: 

• Workers 

• Bench Racing 

• Food and Drink 

• Extreme Bowling (helmet optional) 

• Camaraderie, Council-style 

Bring a side dish to share. Sandwiches and beverages 

provided by The Clubs of Midwestern Council. 

WHERE: 

DOUBLEDAY’S 

Formerly Neil’s Diamond Inn 

4586 Baxter Rd; Cottage Grove, WI 

(The lower level) 

WHEN: 

Saturday, March 10th 

Party – 6:30pm 

Dinner – 7pm 

Bowling – 9pm 

Events preceded by a Race Staff Meeting starting at 

3PM. Anyone interested in attending is welcome. 

For More Information: 

Chris McNicol 

608-635-8775 

robin131@centurytel.net 

Sheryl Rakowski 

MCSCC, MSCC 

North Suburban Sports Car Club 

INDOOR DRIVER SCHOOL 

Club Members are invited to attend the annual Indoor 

Driver School that will be conducted at the Autobahn 

Country Club on Saturday, March 24th. Learn how to 

safely race your street car against the clock on a closed 

circuit road race course. 

Where: Autobahn Country Club 

When: Saturday, March 24th 

Time: 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM 

Cost: Free 

Lunch: Available at a nominal fee 

Info: John Churchil 

(630) 260-0566 

j.churchill@sbcglobal.net 

Directions at www.autobahncountryclub.net 

The Downshift - Page 3 

MG Club Swap Meet - Feb 25th 

The Chicagoland MG Car Club is kicking off plans for 

the 11th annual All British Car Swap Meet and Autojumble 

that will be held at the DuPage County Fair 

Grounds in Wheaton, IL on Sunday, February 25th. 

You will find buildings full of British oriented car parts, 

accessories, and books. 

Outside you can find cars, engines, and odd assortments 

of British automotive history in need of a new 

owner. This event is notably the first automotive oriented 

event of the year (not counting the Chicago Automobile 

Show) and it’s a good excuse to get out of 

the house and start scrounging for stuff you did not 

even know you needed. 

You can come as a spectator, or get your own booth 

and fill it up with items to sell. Here are the details: 

Event Name: British Car Swap Meet/Auto Jumble 

Date: Sunday, February 25th, 2007 

Hours: 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM 

Location: DuPage County Fairgrounds 

Sponsor: Chicagoland MG Club 

Contact: Jim Evans (630-858-8192) 

Web Info: www.britishcarswap.info 

Admission: $5.00 with Free Parking 

Space: $25.00 for a 10x10 Booth area 

Tables: $5.00 each 

Payment to: Chicagoland MG Club 

P.O. Box 455 

Addison, IL 60101


FEBRUARY 8, 2007 MEETING OF MIDWESTERN COUNCIL BOARDS 

Regular Executive and Contest Boards meeting, Sam’s Ristorante, Rockford IL. President Cassaro called the meeting to order 

at 8:05 PM. It was ascertained that a quorum was present. All officers were present and clubs represented as follows: CSCC 

– Wells, Berg-Wells; FTR – S.Green; GLSCC - 0; LSCC – Martin, Machula, von Kampen; MSCC – Wood, McNicol; NSSCC 

– J.Boldt, Dudek; SCSCC – Lewis, Humphry; SCCR – P.Green, White. M (P.Green) & 2 (Wheeler) to approve the minutes of 

the January meeting as printed. Pass. 

Treasurer’s Report: P.Green presented Harlan’s reports for Jan. 07 and year end 06. For 07 there will be separate line items 

for W-W and AX sanction fees. NS and FT need to submit their banquet donation checks. M(von Kampen) & 2(several) to approve 

report as printed. Pass. 

OLD BUSINESS 

- 06 Banquet: Was well-done thanks to Harlan who organized it, P.Green who emceed, and many other volunteers. 

- Cayo lawsuit update: Papers have yet to be served despite many efforts and the issue goes back to court. No actions have 

produced any response to return the rookie trophy. 

- MC 50th Anniversary logo design: Machula submitted several drawings and others are working on it. Submissions must be 

made by the May board meeting at the latest. 

- Electronic KLAXON: Paper copies and postage are very expensive. Electronic copies would be available on the website 

and distribution would be more timely than with snail mail. Clubs were polled for input. It was suggested that for those without 

email, paper copy would be available free through the end of the year with a cost assessed for next year. 

- Worker Party: Loren Ziglin of MSCC volunteered to work on it. Previous years’ format (buffet, beer & bowling) is popular. 

Clubs donating: NS-$200, SCCR-$250, L-$200, SC-$200, FT-$250. 

- SCCR is having a family event at Historic Auto Attractions in Roscoe on Mar. 4, 1:00-5:00. Flyers are available and will also 

be posted on Forum. 

NEW BUSINESS 

- 07 Banquet: SCCR will host and is looking into locations. 

- Milwaukee Mile event: A letter was read from Gerdisch of GL requesting that since that event lost money for the club and 

costs are up a lot from last year, unless a possible sponsor comes through for the club, GL would like to have another club 

partner with them to share work and costs. If not, GL may have to drop the date. Clubs will see about it. 

- Wrist bands: Cassaro has info from a company selling Tyvek bands reasonably if clubs are interested. 

- Worker Travel Program: M(White) & 2(Lewis) that money from the worker fund be used to continue the Travel Fund. 5 - $20 

gas cards ($40 for RA) would be given on Sat. and Sun. each, and Chiefs of Specialty would turn in lists of their workers (to 

avoid awarding gas cards to those who just sign in as staff at registration and then disappear). Pass. Total cost for ’07 season 

would be $2200. 

COMPETITION 

OLD BUSINESS 

- Autocross Committee Report: After the 1st AX school, Steve Belling will step down as chair and someone else is needed to fill 

the position. Co-chiefs of AX grid will be Michelle and Benjamin Murwin, relatives of Wheeler. Next meeting will be Mar. 31. 

- Race Staff Committee Report: Staff Director and Staff Committee chairs are needed. 

- Steward Committee Report: Steward lists and race groupings will be reviewed at the next meeting (Feb. 24, location TBD). 

- G. Weis is handling previously discussed driver sanctions. 

- GCR: Is in the works and will be on the website when finished. Someone is needed to edit it for 08. 

- Annual Tech Day is at Wheeler’s facility. Rulebooks for Thunder Roadster and Legends cars were given to Berg-Wells for 

Tech. 

NEW BUSINESS 

- Hancook Tire contingency info is the same as 06 and is detailed on the website. (http://www.mcscc.org) 

- Meeting Start Time: Suggestion to call to order earlier was dropped since it takes some attendees up to 2 hours to get 

here. 

- The yellow rescue truck is running poorly and will get a tuneup paid for by the staff fund. 

M(P.Green) & 2(von Kampen) to adjourn at 9:08. 

Minutes taken and transcribed by S. Boldt.


Ron Fellows Special Edition Z06 Corvette Coming in Spring 

CHICAGO - Corvette enthusiasts in 

search of a unique ride have much to 

consider this year with the introduction 

of the Ron Fellows ALMS GT1 Champion 

Corvette Z06. The special-edition 

Corvette is distinguished by unique 

interior and exterior appointments and 

will be offered in limited, predetermined 

quantities. In other words, when 

they’re gone, they’re gone. 

“Chevrolet and Corvette have a long, 

storied history at Indianapolis, and 

the new pace car special-edition commemorates 

that heritage with what will 

surely be an instant collectible,” said 

Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. 

“Ron Fellows is also a part of Chevrolet’s racing heritage, and he has been instrumental in the remarkable success 

of the Corvette Racing team in the American Le Mans Series. The special signature-series Z06 model that bears 

his name will forever link him to one of the greatest eras in factory racing, which has produced six consecutive 

ALMS GT1 manufacturers championships, and counting. “Ron Fellows ALMS GT1 Champion Corvette Z06 Marking 

his championship tenure with Corvette Racing’s GT1-class domination in the ALMS, Corvette racing living legend 

Ron Fellows is celebrated with a specially prepared 2007 Corvette Z06 production model. All are distinguished by 

Arctic White paint (including the door handles) that is accented with a racing-style fender stripe and Ron Fellows’ 

autograph. 

The front fender graphics are reminiscent of the identifying graphics of the Corvette GT1 race car. They feature 

double Monterey Red Metallic stripes with Machine Silver borders and Fellows’ autograph in a contrasting Victory 

Red shade, along with the callouts of the championship years when he was at the wheel. There is also a maple leaf 

logo motif incorporated with the graphics, a nod to Fellows’ Canadian heritage. Indeed, the red-over-white color 

scheme of the car’s paint and graphics represents Canada’s colors. This special Corvette Z06 is the first signed 

special edition in Corvette’s 54-year history, and is the first Arctic White Z06 ever offered. Only 399 are planned for 

production: approximately 300 for the United States, 33 for Canada and 66 for other export markets. Exterior cues 

include a full-width racing spoiler and a unique windshield banner. Additional standard equipment includes the well 

equipped 2LZ package and chrome wheels. A special interior includes: 

* Red seats, center console, door panels and instrument panel 

* Red, leather-covered armrest with a logo that is hand-signed by Ron Fellows 

* Tech pattern interior trim 

An accomplished road racer, Ron Fellows is inextricably woven into the Corvette Racing team’s success. He helped 

test and develop the first Corvette C5-R race car and recorded the team’s first win in 2000. Fellows also grabbed 

the ALMS GTS class championship in 2002 and shared that position in 2003-04. Fellows has been a part of all six 

consecutive ALMS GT1 manufacturers championships for Chevrolet, and was voted the most popular ALMS driver 

in 2004-06. Additionally, he has slipped behind the wheel of NASCAR Nextel Cup Chevy Monte Carlo SS race cars 

when the series hits road courses. He’s also scored a pair of NASCAR Craftsman Truck series wins, three NASCAR 

Busch Series wins, 19 SCCA Trans Am wins and was the GM Player’s Challenge champion in 1989. 

The Ron Fellows ALMS GT1 Champion Corvette Z06 will be available this spring. It carries an MSRP of $77,500, 

including destination. OnStar and a navigation system are the only options; and when equipped with them, the price 

is $79,945. With a very limited production run, this special edition Z06 may soon rival the unique popularity of the 

1996 Grand Sport C4 Corvette that carried the same fender stripe markings on the 1000 unit run of blue and white 

cars. It will be tough to find another 505 HP 7.0 Litre aluminum block, dry sump oil system engine package in a 3100 

pound car that is ready for the firs Spring Autocross - right out of the box. 

Corvette Racing Confirms Competition at LeMans and in ALMS 

DETROIT - Corvette Racing officials announced that America’s premier production sports car team intends to return 

to the American LeMans Series in 2007 to defend its GT1 manufacturers, team and drivers championships. Corvette 

Racing also plans to race for its sixth GT1 class title in seven years at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. 

“The Corvette C6.R race program continues Chevrolet’s tradition of racing production-based vehicles to improve 

the breed,” said GM Racing director Mark Kent. “The continuous exchange of information and the constant transfer 

of technology between the racing and production programs ensure that lessons learned on the track benefit every 

Corvette on the highway. “Corvette Racing will test in February in preparation for the season-opening round of the 

12-race ALMS series, the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring, on March 17, 2007. Since its debut in 1999, Corvette 

Racing has competed in 77 races, scoring 51 victories and 34 one-two finishes.


Chicagoland Sports Car Club 2006 Annual Awards Banquet 

John Connell (L) Congratulated Frank Riemann (R) on winning 

the Hartman Award for Driver Performance in 2006. John won 

the travelling trophy for 2005. Mike Schindlbeck (C) looks on. 

Mike congratulates Bruce Weatherston 

for his FF Championship won during 

2006. 

Lois Berg-Wells (L) traded notes with Barbara Deer (R) 

as Alden Wells and Butch Deer did the same. 

Mike congratulates Alden Wells, CSCC 

member of the year, recognized for 

dedicated service to the Club. 

Mike congratulates Dr. Djurovic for his Club and 

MC Championship in FC in 2006. 

Bob Hindman, a former Driver’s 

Club member joined the party to 

see some old friends. 

Walter Modelski (L) visited with Carl Johnson (R) who 

also joined the party to check in on some old friends.


The 99th Edition Of The Chicago Auto Show - Fun With Cars 

The Pontiac GXP promises “Excitement” as a suitable replacement for the GTO. The cars did well in the Rolex 

24. 

The Cat in the Hat Car demonstrated a good aero package 

and good hat room. 

The Camaro ‘vert is still on the “pretty soon” list at Chev 

and it was looking promising. 

Corvette Racing announced intentions to contest the 

ALMS and LeMans classic again in 2007. (See page 5) 

New to Nextel in 2007, Toyota brought attention to the 

“foreign substance” debacle at the Daytona 500.


SODI Kart Expo Features Jake and Elwood Blues February 24 

Wheaton, Illinois - Show goers at the 15th annual Kart Expo, will be treated to a “taste of 

Chicago”, as Jake and Elwood Blues will perform at 2:00 PM on Saturday February 24 

at the event in Schaumburg, Illinois (NW Suburban Chicago). The musical performance 

will take place on the “Sodi Stage” located inside the Renaissance Convention Center 

near Woodfield Mall in Schaumburg. 

The Jake & Elwood act has been entertaining crowds around the world for the last twenty 

years. From corporate events, Chicago Bulls half-time entertainment, conventions and 

parties, to major venues and concert productions, the group has done it all. It is a looka-like, 

sound-a-like, musical act that will interact with, excite, and energize any crowd. 

Not only is the show professionally choreographed and constructed, it is overflowing 

with talent, time tested and down right entertaining. 

“You’re guaranteed to have a great time listening to Jake and Elwood perform your favorites, 

such as “Sweet Home Chicago” said Expo Director Darrell Sitarz. “It will be a 

fun afternoon.” 

Kart Expo is the largest kart racing exposition in North America which features karts, equipment and racing apparel 

from 10 countries in over 350 booths. The show dates are February 24-25. Saturday is “Racer Day” with an 

opportunity to meet World Champion Mike Wilson and other notables and Sunday is “Kid’s Day” featuring a Radio 

Disney stage show and other family-related activities. Both the Jake and Elwood and Radio Disney shows are free 

with admission to Kart Expo. 

Adults: $8, Kids 3-13: $2, 3-under Free. Info: 630-653-7368 or karting@msn.com. 

Kart Expo presented by Sodi, is also sponsored by Supersport Timing, EKartingNews, Roc Timing Systems, The 

Rock Island Grand Prix, Formula Car Magazine, The Inside Track, International Racing Association, e-KMI.com, 

KartFax, KartGear Intl and KartSearch. 

Saturday is “Racer Day” with an opportunity to meet World Champion Mike Wilson and other notables and Sunday 

is “Kid’s Day” featuring a Radio Disney stage show and other family-related activities. Both the Jake and Elwood 

and Radio Disney shows are free with admission to Kart Expo. 

JESSICA BRANNAM TO APPEAR ON SUNDAY! 

Karting sensation Jessica Brannam, 16, who has won 30 karting championships in the last 6 years, will be on-hand 

to sign autographs at the upcoming Kart Expo International, February 24-25 at the Renaissance Convention Center 

in Schaumburg, Illinois. 

Ms. Brannam will be part of the “Kid’s Day” festivities on Sunday 2/25. The day will also include a Radio Disney 

Party Patrol as well as a “Kids and Karting” Seminar. 

Jessica’s motto is “I might be small, but I can haul”, is only 5’5” 95 pounds, but she sure can kick butt on the track! 

“I am 16 years old and have been racing for 6 years. In my short racing career I have enjoyed tremendous success 

so far. Some of my accomplishments in go karting include, 16 National Championships, 14 Regional Championships 

and 178 feature race victories, just to name a few. 2005 was my first year racing a car. I claimed ‘Rookie of 

the Year’ honors in 2 divisions while racing my mini sprint. I accomplished this even though I missed 3 races due to 

age restrictions. I have raced and won on just about every type of track. This diversity in driving will benefit me no 

matter what direction my racing career takes me.” 

Jessica continued, “My goal was, is and always will be to become a champion in a major racing series. I will do 

whatever it takes to reach this goal, while at the same time maintaining my morality and dignity. I am fully dedicated, 

loyal and committed to my sponsors, race team and my goals at all times.” 

Ms. Brannam, from nearby McHenry, Illinois is featured in the February issue of Performance Racing Industry 

Magazine and is on the 2007 “Women in Racing” calendar, along side the likes of Danica Patrick, Erin Crocker 

and others. Show attendees will be able to meet Jessica at 1:30PM at the “Sodi Stage” in the convention center on 

Sunday, 2/25. 

Karting is the place where you really can participate in some of the most exciting racing you’ll ever experience. 

There’s a place in Karting for you as a driver or mechanic. Karting offers mechanical interest, design, high performance, 

driving skill, and the most competitive racing ever, anywhere. 

Whatever your age, seeking to start a pro racing career, or just out for some family fun on a weekend afternoon, 

you’ll find that Karting is a great place to be. 

For more information about the kart show, go to “Kart Expo Update” on the web: http://www.e-kmi.com/


Champ Car Standing Start Procedure Promises “Excitement” 

ANGLETON, Texas - Katherine Legge leisurely rolled her Dale Coyne Racing Cosworth/Panoz/Bridgestone Champ 

Car to a stop on the front straight as a rainy Monday faded to gloom, while rookie Graham Rahal sidled up alongside 

and stopped. Both drivers fixed their eyes on a bank of lights perched over the track, revving their 750-horsepower 

Cosworth XFE powerplants higher and higher as each of the four red lights glowed one-by-one. The scarlet lights 

went dark as the two Champ Cars rocketed from their spots to make the first side-by-side test of Champ Car’s new 

standing-start procedure - which will go into effect at the start of the 2007 season. 

Champ Car will institute the standing-start procedure beginning in Las Vegas, marking the first time that the starting 

method will be used in the modern era of Champ Car World Series competition. Today, the drivers got their first 

chance for side-by-side practice of standing starts, albeit on a wet MSR Houston road course where rains cut the 

session from 60 to 30 minutes. 

“The standings starts are going to bring a lot of excitement to Champ Car and definitely adds a whole new element 

to the race,” said Legge. “You obviously don’t want to stall the car at the start. You need to find a way to avoid wheel 

spin and get up through the gears as fast as you can. That’s the way to have a good start.” 

A damp morning gave way to heavy rains, which kept the Champ Cars in the garage for most of Monday afternoon. 

No one turned a wheel until Newman/Haas Racing’s Sebastien Bourdais and Graham Rahal hit the track at 3:30, 

leading the way for an hour of late-session action topped by the initial 30 minutes of standing-start practice. Nearly 

half the field took advantage of the opportunity while some teams had already retired to their garages by that time, 

trading the chance to work on their cars for splashing in the rain. 

Rahal was one of the few drivers in the field with fresh standing-start experience, having won five races from a full 

stop in last year’s Champ Car Atlantic Championship, and spent most of the session working on his starts. “It’s much 

more difficult to do the starts in Champ Car because there’s so much more power,” Rahal said. “It’s hard to put the 

power down on these cars as it is. In third gear coming out of a corner it can be hard to do so doing it from a stop 

is a tough thing, especially when it is wet. “The drivers and teams of the Champ Car World Series will have another 

hour to hone their starting skills, at the end of tomorrow’s final day of testing at MSR Houston. The series will then 

prepare for its Spring Training test, to be held at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca on March 9th and 10th. 

INDIANAPOLIS 500 PART OF JIM Beam 1100 ULTIMATE FAN EXPERIENCE 

INDIANAPOLIS, Friday, Feb. 16, ~ Jim Beam “The Official Spirit of Racing”, will give one lucky race fan and three 

of their friends the unique opportunity to do “double-duty by attending both the Indianapolis 500 at the Indianapolis 

Motor Speedway and the Coca-Cola 600 at Lowe’s Motor Speedway in Charlotte on Sunday, May 27. 

The winner of the Jim Beam 1100 will be awarded a unique chance to experience 1,100 miles of great motorsports 

in one day. There will be VIP treatment for the entire weekend for the winner and guests, including private air transportation 

from Indianapolis to Charlotte. At each track, the winner and guests will enjoy the race from an exclusive 

VIP suite. They also will have the chance to meet and support the two Jim Beam-sponsored drivers, Michael Andretti 

and Robby Gordon. 

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime event for the consumer to experience the biggest day in motorsports and an opportunity 

that only the Official Spirit of Racing could provide,” said Brian Gallagher, manager, Jim Beam Racing. “By entering, 

the winner the chance to see the two races, we’re able to connect our IRL and NASCAR Championships and 

reinforce our commitment to motorsports.” 

The promotion kicked off Feb. 14 (where legal), and race fans can enter through regular mail or online at www. 

jimbeam.com. The winner is tentatively scheduled to be announced Tuesday, May 1. 

TORCO Racing Fuels Named Sponsor Of NHRA POWERade Event In Chicago 

POMONA, Calif. - Torco Racing Fuels, a leading manufacturer of high performance fuels, has signed a multi-year 

agreement with NHRA to become the title sponsor of the NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series event held in the 

Chicagoland area, NHRA officials announced today. The 10th annual Torco Racing Fuels Route 66 NHRA Nationals, 

June 7-10, is the 10th of 23 events in the NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series. The event, held at the Route 66 

Raceway in Joliet, Ill., has produced some of the fastest times and speeds in motorsports history. It will be televised 

by ESPN2 and ESPN2 HD. 

“Sponsoring the Joliet race makes great sense to me,” said Evan Knoll, president, Knoll Gas-Torco Racing Fuels. 

“We have a lot of different types of customers in the state of Illinois, along with one of our offices there, and some 

very large storage tanks for our refined products. It’s the Grand Trunk for the Midwest with pipelines and storage 

terminals. We had our first experience with the (Torco Racing Fuels NHRA Nationals in Virginia) last year, so when 

this event was available I had to jump on it. That track is one awesome place to race. It’s fast, very clean and a good 

time.” 

MC Members attending the AX/W2W event at the nearby Autobahn Country Club on June 9 - 10th may be interested 

in the evening Drag Racing program at the Route 66 facility. In either case, consider an early Hotel reservation.


For Sale and Trade 

Club Member ads are free and may be submitted via 

US Mail, eMail, or by telephone. Non-member and 

Commercial ads are $5.00 for 3 months. Contact Larry 

Best via phone (847-683-9283) or eMail at LJBEST@ 

Foxvalley.Net. 

For Sale: 79 Mazda RX-7, Original paint, Stored every 

winter, 13b-240 HP rotary engine, Updated and rebuilt 

5 speed tranny, Rikon aluminum rims w/ 9 inch Hoosier 

slicks. Streetable and wins B-race $4500. Contact 

Roger at: 920-788-7292 

Wanted: Info. I am still in the process of restoring a 

1969-71 Formula Ford made by BEATTIE, in Great 

Britain. Does anyone have any info on this car? I mainly 

am in need of original style body work -- especially 

a nose. Any help will be greatly appreciated! Contact: 

Bruce Weatherston 708-957-8322. 

For Sale: 1988 Porsche Turbo 930 Slant Nose, Black/ 

Black, 53K miles, Excellent condition, New tires, All 

original. $38,500. Contact Dan: 269-207-0913 

For Sale: Factory Repair Manual direct From Trollhotten 

for the Saab Model 96, includes standard and 850cc 

MonteCarlo engine versions. Larry 847-683-1028. 

For Sale: 1964 MG Midget solid rolling chassis, RHD, 

disc wheels, 1275 engine, ribcase trans, spare steel 

hood, front suspension, some trim included. Southern 

car stored inside, British Heritage documentation. clear 

Illinois title. Great for vintage race car or restoration 

project. $2,000 OBO. Craig (309) 256-8551 

For Sale: 1973 Porsche 914 Prod or G.T. - You decide 

now. Project car. Engine: 1700cc. Many New Parts, 

Trans-Axle is a Brad Mayeur rebuild close-ratio box. 

New 19mm master cylinder, rotors, steel lines, and much 

more. All New Suspension bushing and axle bearings 

plus springs, torsion bars, 916 front nose. New Fender 

Flares. Finish this car and go racing. Chicago/Madison 

Delivery. Call Phil Paradiso today at: 563-557-9431 or 

send an email to AJ Paradiso at: seive411@aol.com. 

For Sale: 1970 Titan Mk 6, Andressen engine, plated 

suspension, Weller wheels, Jones tach, Racetech gauges, 

Sabelt belts, Momo detachable steering wheel, AMB 

Transponder, excellent show quality condition, Current 

VSCDA logbook, recently serviced by Lindstrand Motorpsports, 

Extensive spares including: four Weller 

wheels, gear sets, 711M block, head, crank, rods, pistons, 

cams etc., rear uprights, new starter, battery, plus 

much more. $22,000 OBO. Craig (309) 256-8551 

For Sale: 2005 Pace American 16 ft. enclosed trailer. 

dual axle, torsion suspension, ramp door with extension, 

tool chest, cabinets, work bench, tongue mounted 

spare tire. Excellent condition. $4,000. EasyUp 10’ x 

15’ canopy. Like new $500.00. Craig (309) 256-8551 

For Sale: New, never mounted (2) 22.5x7.5x13 R60 

and (2) 20 x 6 x13 R60 slicks $500; new, never used 

Smart CamberKit with handsfree attachment $125 and 

Smart Strings Toe Alignment Kit $250; used quick-lift 

jack $75. Craig (309) 256-8551 

For Sale: Check with Prix Parts for NOS parts used on 

60’s and 70’s imported cars. 

- Brake Rotors, pad & shoe sets 

- Clutch - pressure plates, disk plates & bearings 

- Engine bearings, pistons, valves, etc. 

- Filters, Air, Fuel, Oil 

- Hydraulics - Brake & Clutch 

- Water Pumps 

Rebuilding Service for: 

- Carburetors 

- Cooling Fan Motors 

- Ignition Distributors 

- Generators & Starters 

- Wiper motors 

Sale Specials: 

- Isky Cam Kit for Porsche 914 / 1.8L NEW $250.00 

- Porsche 911 Alternator (78-83) 75 Amp NEW OE $350.00 

- Porsche 928 Alternator (77-P) 90 Amp NEW OE $350.00 

- Porsche 914 / 1.8L SS Header kit USED $350.00 

Prix Parts, PO Box 39, Wasco, IL. 60183 Phone Ron at 

630-377-3033 or on the web: www.prixparts.homstead. 

com. 

Available on Amazon.com! Tommy Fennell’s Second 

Edition of the classic story of his life, motorsports career, 

and passion. “From A Dirt Floor Garage In Ireland 

To An American Retirement” is required reading. 

This book is available now on Amazon.com and at many 

of the usual book sellers. If you raced with Tommy, get 

this book and catch up on what was going on behind the 

scenes. If you have it, Order another one for a friend!

Chicagoland Sports Car Club 

1 – 00 Years of Service to the Motorsports Community 

00 Membership Application & Renewal 

Membership Information (CSCC & Midwestern Council) Fee: $ .00 

Name: _________________________________________ 

Address: _______________________________________ 

City: __________________________________________ 

State: _____ Zip: ____________-______ 

Telephone: _______ - _______ - ________________ (Home) 

Telephone: _______ - _______ - ________________ (Work) 

Telephone: _______ - _______ - ________________ (Cell) 

Email ID: _____________________________________ 

Racing Interest & Specialty 

Driving – Autocross or Wheel to Wheel: _________________________________ 

Racing Car and Class: _______________________________________________ 

Race Staff Specialty: ________________________________________________ 

Special Events Planning: _____________________________________________ 

Year You First Joined Chicagoland Sports Car Club: _______________________ 

00 Membership Fee Payment Methods 

$45.00 Total for both 2007 CSCC and MC membership Enclosed: ________________ 

Make Checks Payable to: Chicagoland Sports Car Club 

Mail to: Chicagoland Sports Car Club Membership 

203 Jake Lane 

Hampshire, IL 60140 


Use PayPal? Send in this Form and PayPal your Membership Dues to: LJBEST@Foxvalley.Net 

CSCC Members receive the Midwestern Council of Sports Car Clubs monthly “Klaxon” Newsletter and the Chicagoland 

Sports Car Club’s “The Downshift” newsletter. Through this CSCC Membership, applicants are granted annual 

membership in both organizations.

The Downshift 

Jan/Feb, 2007 

Chicagoland Sports Car Club 

203 Jake Lane 

Hampshire, IL 60140 

Chicagoland Sports Car Club is a 

member of the Midwestern Council 

of Sports Car Clubs that was founded 

in 1958. 

Chicagoland Sports Car Club: Next Meeting on February th, at Aurelio’s 

The February 2007 BOD/General Membership 

meeting will be held Wednesday, 

February 28th, 2007 at Aurelio’s Pizza in 

Addison, Il. The BOD Meeting start time is 

officially 7:30 PM. 

The BOD will meet to review the Club 

Business agenda, with the General Membership 

meeting following immediately afterward 

at 8:00 PM. Plan to come early 

and enjoy a snack with some of your Club 

members. 

Aurelio’s Pizza is located at 1455 W. Lake 

Street in Addison, IL, just East if I-355, 

and West of John’s Pizza, the old CSCC 

meeting location. An easy route is to exit 

I-90 at Rt. 83 (Southbound), proceeding 

South toward the Lake Street Exit (Route 

20). Proceed Westbound on Lake Street 

-or- Exit East from I 355 and proceed East 

on Lake Street (Route. 20) to Aurelio’s. 

We will review the plans for 2007 and the 

upcoming CSCC events. We’ll also see 

how the 2007 schedule is shaping up. 

First Class Mail 

Shown at the 99th Chicago Auto Show, a new kind of electric concept 

vehicle, the Chevy Volt was featured. It’s unlike any previous EV (electric 

vehicle), thanks to its innovative rechargeable electric drive system 

and range-extending power source. It can be configured to run on electricity, 

gasoline, E85, or biodiesel. You have at least a couple of options 

for the most efficient drive. Check page 7 for other Auto Show views.

The Downshift - Chicagoland Sports Car Club

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