Thanks to Mike

[Steve Jelf]

I see one of the guys making the Lincoln Highway trip is Mike Bender. Over the years he has been very kind to me. One memorable example was in 2018 when I was contemplating my first interstate trip by Model T. I have learned a bit, but in no way am I a real mechanic. I was apprehensive about driving alone across several states in my 1915 runabout. I think Mike was kidding when he said if I broke down he would come and get me. But then he said the words that changed my life. He reminded me that wherever you go in this country there are Model T people nearby, willing to help out in a pinch. With that encouragement, I drove my T to Detroit for the first time. Events on that trip showed me that Mike was right. I found that travel by Model T is a wonderful adventure that I love. So much so that I made the same trip in 2019, 2021, 2022, and started the fifth in 2023. What happened on that last trip hasn't diminished the treasured memories of my Model T travel experiences.

We never know what's going to happen. I may live to make more Model T trips, or maybe not. Either way, I must thank Mike Bender for his encouragement, and his kindness over the years.

He got me started.

Part of the Great Adventure.

[Dan McEachern]

Yup- Mike is one of the good guys. I don't remember how we connected, but i suspect it had something to do with Fred Houston....

[SurfCityGene]

Ya Dan, Fred is another one of the All Time Greats.. Our club has many more and our members are truly fortunate

[Moxie26]

Mike and Fred, both are appreciated for their efforts in rebuilding the transmission in our 26 runabout over 20 years ago.

[DHort]

Hear hear!

[JTT3]

Mike is not only a friend but a deft teacher/coach. He is one of those good guys. Mike is a testament to paying it forward. Can’t wait to hear more about this new adventure.

Best John

[Michael Peternell]

Not sure, but back in the day, they would refer to a man as being cut from a finer cloth than most. That's Mike.
Mike Peternell