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MICKELBERRY MUSTANGS
By Lance Lambert
It was love at first sight when Tamara O'Brien first saw the partner she wanted for life. Not only muscular, well dressed and stylish, but also appearing to be ready for a lot of fun. "And the guy behind the wheel of that beautiful Mustang was kind of cute too."
Tamara had been passionate about Mustangs since she was 13 years old and her dream car was, well, any Mustang that she saw around her hometown of Kelso, WA. As she grew up she began to also notice boys and one day noticed that Kelso resident Dennis Mickelberry drove a great looking blue 1984 Mustang. They met and their mutual love of Mustangs resulted in them becoming car buddies in general and "Stang" lovers in particular. They eventually went their separate ways but fate had a different plan for them.
Fast forward to 2001 when these two "pony car" partners walked down the isle to became partners for life. What could be better? The former Ms. O'Brian ended up with that cute guy that loved Mustangs and Mr. Mickelberry ended up with a beautiful wife that understood, encouraged and participated in building a stable of the mutually loved Mustangs.
Dennis currently drives a 1988 Saleen Mustang convertible that is very fast and great looking. Steve Saleen, a successful race car driver and car designer, has become famous for what he can do to a Mustang. "Steve Saleen knows how to turn a fantastic car into a fantastic high performance car." Dennis' love of the Saleen conversions resulted in him being appointed the Northwest Regional Director of the international Saleen Club.
Tamara's personal vintage vehicle is a beautiful "classic" 1965 Mustang. "All Mustangs are beautiful and I advise anyone that is passionate about them to go ahead and buy one. Regardless if it is old or new, six cylinder or V8, go ahead and buy it!"
An additional Mustang recently began bedding down in the Mickelberry's garage. This 1988 Saleen hatchback model is shared by both Dennis & Tamara and is also being watched closely by their young son Joshua. All three Mustangs are admired by Joshua but none are his ultimate dream car. He has his sights set on a 1977 Mustang Cobra II and within a few years will be able to legally pull out of the driveway in his own steed. "I've already found the car. It's a T-top model and is currently in Idaho." When Joshua was asked what car he could have if money was not object he responded "The 1977 Mustang Cobra II in Idaho. I know that I'm going to own that car someday."
Obviously Mr. & Mrs. Mickelberry have done a good job of parenting.. |