LCOC Logo Items for Sale on Brand New Website

Originally published in the May-June 2025 Lincoln and Continental Comments magazine (Issue # 384)
Submitted by Elayne Bendel

An exciting new website partnership between LCOC and Lands’ End Outfitters is offering LCOC logo merchandise to all our members just in time for this year’s car show season! Who wouldn’t want to show off their brand-new LCOC jacket, shirt, sweater, hoodie, cap, or accessory?

Thanks to an initiative by LCOC member Hal Reniger, LCOC National has approved the arrangement and created a link to an LCOC club website at Lands’ End that offers dozens of items for purchase.

Founded more than 60 years ago, Lands’ End, Inc. is a classic American lifestyle brand. The company is a leading digital retailer of solution-based apparel, swimwear, outerwear, accessories, footwear, home products, and uniforms for businesses, schools, and clubs through the Outfitters distribution channel.

Product focus has shifted significantly over the years, but they continue to adhere to their founder’s motto as a guiding principle: “Take care of the customer, take care of the employee, and the rest will take care of itself.”

For LCOC, both men’s and women’s clothing are offered, along with accessories, including BBQ aprons, scarves, belts, and ties. clothing includes a wide variety of shirts, jackets, sweaters, pants, scrubs, and caps. A number of men’s and women’s styles in various sizes and colors are part of the website’s initial offering.

There is a lot to choose from on the LCOC Lands’ End website, and over time, we expect the selection to grow as more members discover and purchase their LCOC merchandise.

Website items are displayed minus the LCOC logo. Once color, size, and style are selected, the LCOC logo may be added for a small added charge. Discounts are offered for some items that can offset the added cost of the embroidered patch logo. Some sample items from the website are shown in this article. Numerous jacket styles and colors are available for purchase.

How to access the LCOC/Lands’ End website

  • To access the site and begin shopping just log in to the Members Area on the lcoc.org home page or click here.
  • After logging in, click the Visit the Lands’ End Outfitters LCOC Merchandise Website button at the top of the page.
  • Once inside the website, click Sign In on the upper right of the page, create your personal account and then begin shopping. You may save your username and password for future use and ease of log-in. To begin shopping, choose from Men’s or Women’s styles. Some items are unisex. Click the Add Logo button to add the LCOC patch to your item and then Choose Location to position the patch on your item before placing it in the cart. The embroidered logo is three inches in diameter.

These are just a few of the great new LCOC logo products you can now buy from Lands’ End. From men’s and women’s shirts, to jackets, even ties and other accessories, you can now go everywhere in Lincoln style. Order yours today!

New Benefits of Ford’s X Plan for LCOC Members

Originally published in the March-April 2025 Lincoln and Continental Comments magazine (Issue # 383)

For over a decade, Ford has offered all LCOC members the ability to use the X Plan program to obtain substantial discounts on new Ford or Lincoln vehicles. Over the years, hundreds of our members have used this plan not only to save on the price of the car, but also on fees, as the X Plan limits the dealer to a document fee cap of $100. It’s a great help when you are in the market for a new car or truck.

Recently, Ford has made the LCOC a full-fledged Partner Recognition member. That means that all our members can now get their own X Plan PINS! Just follow these simple steps to generate your X-Plan PIN:

  1. Visit www.fordpartner.com and enter our LCOC Partner Code – D5FGG
  2. Click on “GENERATE MY PIN” and enter your information to receive your LCOC X-Plan PIN.
  3. Bring your PIN Certificate along when visiting an eligible participating dealer, as well as proof of LCOC membership and the date of membership (month/year). Note that you must have been an LCOC member for at least 90 days.

The proof of LCOC membership can be one of the following: (1) Screen print of your membership information from Cornerstone, our membership manager. Go to www.lcoc.org, click on “Member Login” on top of home page, and sign in for the required information. (2) Your welcome letter from Cornerstone, or (3) The latest issue the Lincoln and Continental Comments with your address on the back cover. A photocopy is acceptable. If you have any questions, get back to me at gkramer2047@gmail.com or 832-368-2575. Good luck!

Leno’s Law

By Jeff Shively

Originally published in the May-June 2025 Lincoln and Continental Comments magazine (Issue # 384)

Photos courtesy of the author.

Sometimes, it helps to have friends in high places. Most Americans have a high opinion of Jay Leno. As the host of The Tonight Show, he tended to poke fun at the foibles of both sides of the aisle, much like Johnny Carson before him. His point was to entertain without alienating a large portion of the audience. In recent years, he has been known more as a car guy’s car guy. Through his television and YouTube programs, he has introduced many more people to the world of the collectible automobile than any one of us ever could, and for that we owe him a debt of gratitude.

Now, he is helping out again. Member Dean Forbes sent in a clipping from a recent issue of Old Cars magazine regarding California Senate Bill 712, dubbed “Leno’s Law.” California has the most stringent emissions standards of the 50 states. This might have made sense 50 years ago, when cars generally polluted more, and there were simply more of them in greater concentrations in California’s urban areas. Even as cars have gotten cleaner, the Golden State has had standards far in excess of other states, at least ones that haven’t adopted California standards.

A car must pass rigid emissions standards to be licensed in the state. To a certain extent, this makes sense for vehicles driven 10,000 or 20,000 miles annually on California’s crowded freeways. Applying those same standards to vintage cars that are seldom used makes less sense. As a result, there has been, for many years, an exemption in place for such cars. But this raises the question of how old a vehicle must be to be considered vintage. I recall reading about this debate as a high school junior and novice car guy in 1990 in the pages of Classic Auto Restorer, Cars & Parts, and Collectible Automobile. At the time, it was a question of deciding between a hard date that never changes or a rolling exemption. I think 1975 might have been the cutoff in those days, a mere 15 years before the current date.

Today, collector cars built prior to 1976 are exempt from California’s biennial smog checks. The current cutoff is fine for people who like 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s cars. Nothing will change for them. What has changed is the scope of collectability within our hobby. Compare the show field at last fall’s Eastern National Meet with the lineup in 1995. Where Gregorie’s gorgeous 1940-1948 Continentals, silky Continental Mark IIs, and Elwood Engel’s masterworks once dominated, Bill Blass Mark Vs, 1980s Town Cars, and sleek Mark VIIIs rule the day. The same is true in almost every corner of the hobby. 1970s and newer cars have grown exponentially in popularity over the past 20 years.

ABOVE Jay Leno during a 2014 visit to the Kokomo Automotive Museum.
The sponsor of S.B. 712, Sen. Shannon Grove (R. Bakersfield), says that it targets “unnecessary and burdensome smog check requirements for classic vehicles, ensuring they remain a celebrated part of California’s culture and economy.” Currently, vehicles that are at least 35 years old can be exempted from the smog check, provided that they are insured as collector automobiles, comply with the emissions regulations of the year they were built, pass a functional test of the gas cap, and have no visible fuel leaks. Leno’s Law simply seeks to replace the fixed date of 1976 for total exemption from smog checks to a rolling date of 35 years old. “California’s smog check laws for classic cars need to be updated – they vary too much from state to state, and California’s rules don’t match up with neighboring ones,” said Leno.

This is just common sense. The newest car that would be fully exempted today would be a 1990 model. Some opponents might say that this would open up a loophole allowing people to drive “gross polluters” every day. True, you can drive a 1990 Lincoln every day. There would probably be someone driving a junkyard refugee, but most people who own them wouldn’t do that because they see them as fun cars for occasional use. I am also old enough to remember when some of the same people who will now call a 1990 Mark VII a “gross polluter” wanted folks to surrender their 1975 Mark IVs and replace them with brand-new “clean and efficient” 1990 Lincolns when I was a teenager.

In reality, this regulation doesn’t affect Mr. Leno that much. Most of his collection has been exempt for decades. Like many of us, he understands the importance of expanding the reach of the hobby beyond its current boundaries. Buying a slab side Continental is not in everyone’s budget, but a nice 1990 Town Car (Motor Trend’s Car of the Year) might be the perfect balance of affordability and practicality, with a lot of class. Hopefully, the California Senate will join with Sen. Grove, pass this S.B. 712, and provide some relief for our collector car compatriots in the Golden State.

Jeff Shively, LCOC legislative advocate, lives in
Kokomo, Indiana

An Artist Speaks

An Artist Speaks

ABOVE:  Ken Madden’s prized 1997 Lincoln Town Car frolicking in a field of fresh flora.

By Ken Madden

Originally published in the March-April 2025 Lincoln and Continental Comments magazine (Issue # 383)

Photos courtesy of the author.

Let me tell you what brought me to Lincolns. Lincoln builds cars for the affluent and successful members of our great country. These are people who have worked all their lives, building estates worthy of leaving a legacy for the children to enjoy for generations. A  Lincoln was, and still is, a big part of that.

On the other side of the tracks was me, in 1995. I was broke and soon to be a dad. Unmarried and working at Wizard Custom Studios in Andover, Minnesota. We restored cars and built very cool custom cars as well as motorcycles. At the time, I was driving a 1968 Ford Ranchero GT with a four-speed and a 302! It sounds awesome, but this was the epitome of a beater.

So, I had no money and needed a better and safer way to haul around my newborn daughter. Alas, a friend of the shop had a car for me- a 1982 Lincoln Town Car. It was brown with a tan velour interior and was rusty, but it ran and drove perfectly…almost.

I was in New Hope, Minnesota, and the car was in Ripon, Wisconsin, about five hours away. Here is the “almost” part. The exhaust was gone from the driver’s seat back. Let’s just say it was a rather loud ride back, but for $350, I was not complaining! I drove that poor old girl for many years, and all I ever needed to fix were rust-related things like all the brake lines.

Sometimes, you look back on the things you did in your youth and wonder how you survived. Consider the gas lines on a car exposed to many salty upper Midwest winters. It was -15 degrees F, and I needed to replace the high-pressure line from the tank, along the frame to the engine, in the driveway. So I found a bunch of cardboard, placed it around the bottom of the car to stop the wind, pointed a kerosene torpedo heater under the car, and went to work. How that didn’t explode is truly an act of the almighty God!

All that said, what a great car! I was hooked. In 1997, my father retired and bought a brand-new black Town Car. I instantly told him that if he ever wanted to sell it, I would get first dibs, knowing full well that he would have it for many years. That was good, because I had no way to buy that car for years.

In 2015, he called and asked if I still wanted “that old Lincoln,” as he had bought a newer 2007 Town Car that caught his eye one day. Of course, I jumped at the chance. He gave me the car with the caveat that he would get half of the proceeds if I sold it. He knew I would never sell it. Over the years, we drove the 1997 Town Car from Wisconsin to Arizona, where my folks live many times. He passed away in October 2022, knowing his prized car was in good hands.

Dad’s Town Car is how the LCOC found me. I attended a couple of our shows over the years, and finally, in 2023, I joined up! To be honest, I didn’t think the Club would be as accepting as they all are! I mean, this ’97 isn’t a 1956 Continental Mark II or a 12-cylinder Continental. It’s just a ’90s Lincoln. Heck, they made a ton of these! But there I was, and the Club has been so welcoming, treating me like they have known me for decades.

I wanted to give back somehow. I helped at shows and co-admined the Northstar Region’s Facebook page gladly, but wanted to do more.

I am, first and foremost, an artist. I have an unrelenting passion for cars, so automotive art is my focus. I have done hundreds of portraits of some great cars of all makes and models. If you read this far and are interested, take a look at my website, maddkstudio.com. What you will see is 40 years of practice and love for the craft of illustration. Then it hit me- I can do an original painting of the “Best of Show” winner at our annual Northstar Region show in Hugo, Minnesota!

This past year’s winner was a spectacular 1948 Continental. What a car! So, I created a 16″ x 20″ acrylic painting on stretched canvas. And I felt like I at least made one man’s day with something very special, more than a nice trophy and handshake. This is something that tells a story. A painting spurs conversation and evokes memories of great and not-so-great times. It tells the story of a life just from an image.

I write this to tell everyone who reads this that so often, a car club is just a car club. I’ve been in dozens of them over the years. When you find a club like the LCOC, where fascinating folks with similar interests and hobbies meet, you also find a community that stands the test of time.

Speaking of time, I want YOU to take the time to talk to the younger Lincoln enthusiasts and encourage them to join our merry band of highway cruising, luxury riding, freedom machines. I am relatively new to the LCOC, and finding a home in the car world is priceless, so let’s spread the word!

INSET ABOVE:  The artist’s 1997 Town Car on canvas.The author created this stunning painting of the “Best of Show” winner at the Northstar Region’s show in Hugo, Minnesota.

ABOVE:  The author’s ‘97 Town Car in repose.

Ken Madden is an LCOC member from Baldwin, Wisconsin.

A Party Like No Other

A Party Like No Other

ABOVE:  This 1939 Lincoln-Zephyr Coupe, owned by Rich Atwell, occupied a premier location in the dealership.

By Pat Corbett

Originally published in the March-April 2025 Lincoln and Continental Comments magazine (Issue # 383)

Photos courtesy of the author.

The Grand Re-Opening celebration of North Park Lincoln, located at 9207 San Pedro Avenue in San Antonio, was held on Thursday evening, Jan. 16, 2025, and was a delight for all who attended. Texas weather blessed the event with mild dry temperatures in the mid-60s to lows in the 50s.

We showcased the North Park Lincoln Dominion store’s Grand Opening in Comments Issue 361 (July-August 2021). The San Pedro store event coincided with the LCOC National Board Meeting at the Crown Plaza Hotel just up the highway. Jackie Gleason, a staunch Lincoln owner, would have responded to this event with, “How sweet it is!” I will comment using an old Lincoln advertising slogan, “Nothing could be finer!” 

Chad Binder, the general manager of North Park Lincoln at Dominion, extended an invitation to the LCOC National Board to join the 400-plus attendees in an event celebrating the latest remodel of the over-50-year family-owned Lincoln dealership location. Several open bars and heavy hors d’oeuvre lineups served the masses in grand fashion. I thought half-inch slabs of pork loin were an entrée to a full course meal and not a snack, but this is Texas, where everything is bigger. Even the ice cubes used to serve drinks were embedded with the Lincoln star. No detail was left untouched, and no expense was spared.

The 2025 Navigator prototype was on display, giving attendees a sneak peek at the latest innovations in automotive transportation. The full dash display of water falling with audio support, the full body-massaging seats, and a burst of aroma therapy essential oils allow the owner to give up their spa membership. The vehicle gives new meaning to roadside rest area.

ABOVE: Tables were set with care at North Park Lincoln, with room for guests aplenty from far and near.

Local Lincoln owners contributed their pristine cars for display. Scott Aronstein, Texas Gulf Coast Director, shipped his black-on-black 1963 Continental Convertible from Houston, which occupied a prominent corner in the air-conditioned owner delivery area. A unique feature of this dealership, this area is where the car is presented to the new owner. They are thoroughly educated in all the facets of their new ride before being handed the keys. Then, the dealership representative watches the new owners drive off into the sunset. Service to the Lincoln owner is just one reason North Park Lincoln has been the #1 Retail Dealer in the United States for several consecutive years, as well as consecutive winner, year after year, of the prestigious President’s Award for dealership excellence in many areas.

David Boullosa shared his impeccable 1979 Town Car, which is his daily driver.

BELOW:  David Boullosa’s immaculate 1979 Town Car is a daily driver that is more than capable of ruling the show field on the weekend.  Here, it beckons visitors to the festivities at North Park Lincoln.

ABOVE: Shrimp cocktail and Lincolns…nothing could be finer.

BELOW:  A meeting of the minds.  Members of the LCOC Board of Directors enjoy the grand reopening.

ABOVE:  The Roscoes and the Corbetts visit and take full advantage of the wonderful venue and company.

BELOW:  The buffer line offered something for everyone to enjoy.

Being one of the largest land barges in American automotive history, it garnered lots of attention from the guests. This car is in 100-point condition. David also used this Lincoln to transport LCOC members between the event and the hotel.

Showcasing the main car showroom, a 1939 Lincoln-Zephyr Coupe, owned by Rich Atwell from Fredericksburg, Texas, is a flagship example of automotive craftsmanship and styling illustrating the rich history Lincoln has created over its more than 100-year history.

Upon arrival, we were greeted by the Mariachi band, Los Galleros, with servers presenting shrimp cocktails to whet your appetite. Valet service whisked away your vehicle for safe parking in their multi-story parking garage. Entering the open-air service bay, transformed into a cocktail lounge, the guests were greeted by servers treating them like dignitaries at a presidential inauguration. There, the band, Finding Friday, entertained the guests with smooth rock and other familiar and popular dance music.

Mr. Kahlig delivered a special address and introduced several Lincoln executives, including Diane Craig, Lincoln Motor Company president. Also attending were the Director of Lincoln North America, Heidi Young; Head of Lincoln Sales, Client Experience, Service and Market Representation, Mike DeYoung; Head of U.S. Lincoln Retail Network Shawn McDermott, and Lorraine Alston, Central Market Area regional manager.

ABOVE:  Pat Corbett, Dan Stahle, and Scott Aronstein quench their collective thirst at North Park Lincoln.

BELOW:   Dedicating this place.  A crucifix is placed in a special location in the showroom.

Afterward, as in all his dealerships, the new facility was blessed by Father Norman Ermis of St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church. A crucifix was placed in a prominent location in the sales showroom. Following this special moment, the ribbon cutting featured Ms. Craig with Mr. Kahlig and other dignitaries officially opening the new facility. Ms. Craig mingled with the crowd while giving photo opportunities to those wishing for a photo.

All in all, the night was a special event that will be remembered for many years to come. The genuine hospitality, the warmth extended by the staff and its management, and the hard work of General Manager Diego Iturbe, which is just an extension of the relationship the dealership has with its customers, are just a few of the reasons why attendees will think fondly of this evening for years to come. When dealing with North Park Lincoln, you become part of the family, not just another customer.

 

ABOVE:  Scott Aronstein’s 1963 Lincoln Continental convertible.

BELOW:  Time to celebrate! LCOC Board Members and Lincoln CIPs share a joyous moment.  (Photo courtesy of Carl Villone.)

Pat Corbett is an LCOC member from Manchaca, Texas.

Boats and Buttercup

Boats and Buttercup

ABOVE: The first time many Hoosier Region members met “Buttercup” was at the 2021 Annual Meeting at the Hilltop Restaurant near Spencer, Indiana.  (Photo courtesy of Jeff Shively.)

By Charlie & Becky Griffith

Originally published in the January/February 2025 Lincoln and Continental Comments magazine (Issue # 382)

ABOVE:  Photo by Becky Griffith

On Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024, Charlie and Becky Griffith attended the White River Yacht Club Classic Car and Boat Show in Indianapolis. The event benefits the Riley Children’s Foundation/Cancer Research. This is a multi-brand car and boat show. There were 146 vehicles in attendance, ranging from Volkswagens, Jeeps, Studebakers, Indy cars, Packards, Lincolns, Rolls-Royces, Bentleys and many more. There were food vendors, a silent auction, a 50/50 drawing, and a mystery wine pull to make things more fun.

ABOVE:  Photo by Becky Griffith

Charlie and Becky Griffith, LCOC members from Indianapolis, attended with their 1966 Lincoln Continental Coupe named “Buttercup.” The rare coupe was well-received by many of the spectators. Fellow Hoosier Region member George Odom of Fishers, Indiana, brought his 1946 Lincoln Continental Cabriolet. Unfortunately, the authors didn’t get a chance to meet up with Mr. Odom. This was a fun event, and the proceeds go to a great cause. We hope that we can stir up more interest for next year.

Charlie & Becky Griffith are LCOC members from Indianapolis, Indiana.