Like an Amtrack locomotive, the LCOC 2026 Kickoff roared through an entire day of fun despite a lingering threat of rain that had plagued the event in prior years. Perhaps a change of venue to the historic Streamliner Lounge in Old Town Orange was the charm that placated Mother Nature.
Whatever the reason, nearly 40 LCOC members, family and friends joined by Great Autos collector car enthusiasts packed the trackside outdoor patio at the Streamliner Lounge for breakfast after a glorious tire-kicking social before the meal. Brian Bernsen even braved the early a.m. chill in his ’65 convertible top down!
Full plates of everything from waffles, to pancakes, to eggs benedict and omelettes, some with a Mexican touch, were enjoyed by all as Amtrack trains rumbled by just behind our patio dining space. For this Connecticut girl used to freezing temperatures and cozy fires, dining al fresco in February still seems like a miracle even after four decades in SoCAl. 🙂
After breakfast host JIm Ayres led a driving tour though some historic Old Town neighborhoods featuring many Craftsman homes and buildings. Then we also entered a neighborhood of tidy Eichler mid-century modern homes before heading eastward through a scenic Santiago Canyon drive toward our next destination—-the Giracci and Cowboy Canyon wineries.
What surprises awaited us there!
Quietly tucked away in the canyon, the wineries are part of a huge event venue with smaller group spaces scattered throughout the facility.
Jim had been told we were the only group booked for the day,, but instead a huge crafts fair was underway with almost no parking available for us. Looks like a mixup among event planners at the winery led to the confusion.
Luckily, someone was leaving just as I entered, vacating a precious parking space big enough for a Lincoln. The others in our group found scattered parking around the facility. Fortunately, we all met up for a great afternoon of wine tasting and socializing in a gorgeous setting under historic live oaks. All of us remarked how special it would be to return here for a dedicated club event during the warmer months. So if you missed Sunday’s event it looks like you’ll have another chance later in the year. Cheers and stay tuned.
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