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Gary Tayman was born in Washington, DC, and grew up in Maryland near Andrews AFB. Growing up, Gary loved three things - cars, trains, and radios. Over the years he built lots of model cars, had a model train layout, and tinkered with old radios on a bench.

Gary's first car was a 1954 Plymouth that was purchased new by his grandfather and handed down. This became his first project car. Although the car was still in great shape, Gary managed to fix certain irritating problems the car had since it was new. Gary also found a deluxe radio (with electronic pushbuttons) in a junk car, fixed it up and installed it.

Eventually Gary began working for Xerox, which provided a company car. Although that 1976 Chevelle would make a nice cruiser today, it didn't seem like it at the time - he longed for the day when he could fix up a classic ride.

In 1984 Gary moved to Sarasota, Florida. His personal cars included several modern Camaros, Firebirds, and Thunderbirds, but there was still an empty feeling - he wanted to own a vintage classic. In 1997 he purchased a real project - an abandoned 1964 Thunderbird. It was indeed a challenge - a car that sat outside a garage in Front Royal, Virginia for years with rodents living in it. Bringing this car back to life was quite a task - and the project was financed by fixing up radios from other cruisers. The car is still not finished (are they ever?) but it is definitely a fun car for cruising around town.

While working on the project, Gary has found something far more rewarding than the restoration itself. He has made a lot of friends along the way through car clubs and cruises. In fact the only regret has been the inability to participate at times because the Thunderbird happened to be laying in the garage in a million pieces. So rather than make a perfect restoration, Gary has opted to keep it running so he can participate in the events.

You can find Gary at many of the events in the Sarasota/Bradenton/Venice area. You'll also find him in Clearwater and Tarpon Springs, usually behind a microphone as he spins records (yes, 45rpm records) for various events put on by the Sunshine State Vintage Thunderbirds. He loves to meet people, so if you see him at these events, be sure to stop by and say hello.

You can visit his business web site for Tayman Electrical - Sound Solutions For Classic Cars at www.taymanelectrical.com