The day dawned cold, wet, dark, and scary enough to almost consider a top-up drive. But there was enough confidence in Mr. Weatherman that at least windows were down, and side curtains left at home.

A total of 18 brave cars carried their somewhat scary occupants on a 50-mile, two hour drive through the luscious secluded areas of the northwest suburbs. Phil and Sandy Wydra produced yet another fabulous route and activities that challenged both Driver and Navigator skills.

Phil checking on registration with the rally judges.

We assembled at Panera Bread in the Arboretum of South Barrington. Some costumes rendered the wearers unrecognizable but thankfully name tags helped if there was any doubt. We (rather promptly) departed at 10:00-ish with the immediate challenge to play name-that-tune. Then we were on our way as the sky brightened and the temperature climbed to a comfortable level. The Rallymasters’ directions were easily followed for most of us…but why would we see other cars coming from different directions?! I guess they were caught up in looking at the scenery and huge estates along the way. We learned that there were day-before changes made to the route and lunch location; but you would not even know that without it being mentioned. Great job Sandy!...(and Phil).

Rally started with identifying popular Halloween-themed songs.

One of many rally challenges

Challenge stops were fun and tested everything from touchy-feely what-the-hell-car-part-is-this to putting/hockey skills to parking/turning skills in a non-powering steering vehicle. Dart throwing is best left to barroom locations but trying that from a car seat is nuts, just sayin’.

Phil and Sandy dug deep and enlisted family members to help as well as some Club regulars (Dino & Lisa Perez, David & Lisa Novak, Ray & Sue Hansen, and Jim & Carolyn Vondran). I hope they at least got to drive the route after their work was done.

(Continued on page 11)