Long Island Vettes - Membership Profile

	"The Smile and the Fantasy" My memory is not sharp enough to visually remember this but I will try the best I can. The first time I can recall being in a corvette was approximately 38 years ago. I was twelve, the year was 1968. The car was a 1962 blue convertible (never took a picture) with white coves. It was my Uncle Frank’s car. I remember looking at that half moon speedometer and seeing that needle move to the right faster and faster, and my uncle looking at me with the biggest smile from ear to ear. That day sticks out the most.
My uncle told my father later on, give me $1800 and give the car to your son. “But he is only 12” my father replied. Well he could polish it until he is ready, said my uncle. Needless to say I never got the car, but the fantasy started then. From that day forward I always wanted one.
	I bought books; jackets (still got one, does not fit of coarse) you name it. Well that longing for my first corvette lasted and lasted. Could never get the timing right though. Either it was too much money or I got married, then the kids came (all good things, family and such). I had very supportive parents and they always said your time will come, maybe not now but it will come. They were both right. It came to me in 2003, when I saw and had to have a 1966 white coupe. I fell in love with it. Took my wife to see it, before I said yes, she sat in it looked around and said “oh this is nice” and I said SOLD. The only sad part was that my parents were both gone by this time and never got to see the fantasy come true. But I do not forget, every time I sit in this car and drive away, I thank them both for the support they gave.
In 2006 I had to turn in my wife’s car and said “why not” how about something for everyday, that’s right, every day. Took a ride to Atlantic City, Kerbecks and bought the “66” a big brother. I am very happy with them both. Little note, there is a difference of 40 years between them both. Remember all “do what you can when you can; don’t wait for later!” Thank you all for taking a minute to read this. *Joe Toscano*

"The Smile and the Fantasy"