LI Vettes Club: LIVing the Dream

Two dozen Corvette enthusiasts gather bi-weekly at the North Bellmore Public Library for the Long Island Vettes Club.

Founded in 2002, the club was founded by like-minded people who share a common love for one of the world's most revered and most popular sports cars. But that's not the only thing that brings them together.

"It's always been based on friendship," said Carol Kalolekas, the club's membership secretary, who has been with the club since its inception. "Whatever the club does, we do it for the members. Everything is done by vote."

President Lou Coccaro presided over the meeting. While members drank coffee, snacked on Entenmann's donuts and gave each other some good ribbing, Coccaro and members of the board reviewed the club's activities past, present and future.

But while there was plenty of constructive talk and camaraderie at the meeting, one had to wonder – where were the Corvettes?

"The big rallies happen in better weather," explained Coccaro. "It's more for spring and summer. But we do organize several events a year with the cars."

The next club-sponsored event is the Laurel Wine Cruise on Nov. 7. Members and non-members are welcome at all events. It's that openness and a commitment to "LIVing the dream" as their motto goes, that truly drives the 'Vettes club. It's also what started the club in the first place.

"People were unhappy with some of the bigger car clubs," said Kalolekas. "Whether it's old cars or new cars, this club is more about the people."

Club Treasurer Rich Fingerhut doesn't wait for special events or perfect weather to drive his two 'Vettes - one a 2004 model, the other a vintage 1966 model.

"I don't believe in not driving the cars in bad weather," Fingerhut said. "I like to drive. As long as it's running, it's good to go."