CTSD Board of Directors
Meet Our Board of Directors
Our new 2024 board of directors is responsible for upholding the San Diego Tbird Club’s bylaws and code of ethics while supporting the San Diego community. But mainly, they’re here to bring us all together around our love of the Thunderbird.
Mitch Villalpando, President
“As president, my goal is to parlay the enthusiasm of new and newer members into re-energizing our club’s more senior members (myself included!), assisting other members, sharing our classic cars, and serving our community.”
Mitch and his wife Elaine’s 57 Thunderbird has been in the family for 40 years; they restored it after his father-in-law gifted it to them in 2014.
He says he loves the true fellowship that comes from the club. That, and “The car is a piece of ‘Americana.’ It’s a piece of history for our family and our country.”
Geoff Wahl, Vice President
When Geoff was a kid, a doctor who saved his life had an Early Bird. Geoff always dreamed of having one just like it! In 2022, his dream came true!
One time, when he and his wife Barbara were driving with the top down, some young people in an adjacent car yelled “Hey, are you movie stars?” Smiles all around.
Geoff aims to help CTSD continue to thrive, bring in new members, and develop programs that generate interest and enthusiasm. “The club is filled with knowledgeable people who are always willing to help with how-to-fix-it advice. I’m learning a lot.”
Shelly Bowen, Treasurer & Membership Director
“When I inherited my dad’s Tbird in boxes, I joined the club. They have been nothing but supportive and encouraging on my restoration journey. Now that I have a beautiful driver, I’m happy to give back.”
A CTSD member since 2018, Shelly is our communications pro. She rebuilt and manages our website, and has been digitizing and streamlining our processes.
“Driving my black 55 is a thrill, especially when I see how it inspires younger people.”
Gary Allard, Director
“These classic cars … there are so few people these days who know how to work on them or are willing to learn. I love that the club is working to expand people’s awareness and knowledge of these classic designs, and I’m happy to be a part of that.”
Gary is a professional photographer by trade, so we are very lucky he stepped up in 2023 to help us with graphic design, promotion, and merchandise. Plus, he has hands on experience in helping restore a 55 Tbird!
Bill Speer, Director and Past VP
Bill Speer, a recent past CTSD Vice President, is one of three directors on our board. An active, long-time member of the club, he is frequently seen around Coronado in his red 56 Thunderbird.
A member since 2015, he supports the club’s Coronado events, including the annual Motorcars on Main Street classic car show and the 4th of July Parade.
“I love the camaraderie that comes with a shared passion for these classic automobiles … [and’ the wealth of automotive knowledge that members offer to keep our classics on the road.”
Kirk Kosmatka, Director
A club member since 2023, Kirk and his green Bird frequently win the “farthest driven” award. He is instrumental in helping the club keep our events list up to date, and will discover new opportunities for us to tour San Diego with our Thunderbirds and share them with the community.
Erika Kosmatka, Social Media Director
“As Social Media Director, I work hard to share our passion for classic Tbirds by bridging the gap between senior members, new members, and enthusiasts who desire to support our community. “
A CTSD member since 2023, Erika is providing a voice for our club across social media channels. Connecting with fellow car enthusiasts is and integral part of the hobby.
“I feel like I am part of something special, and I’m grateful to everyone in the club for sharing their knowledge.”
Jeff Levitt, Director
A CTSD member since 2023, Jeff Levitt and his red 1955 Thunderbird can be seen all over town, from Clairemont Mesa to Escondido to Palm Springs! He loves to encourage car show goers and fans to take pictures with the classic car and even rents it out for special events and photo shoots. His enthusiasm for our classic cars is infectious.
David Durrill, Director-at-Large
David Durrill (and his 1956 yellow Thunderbird) is a longtime and active member of the Classic Thunderbirds of San Diego. He currently is a Director at Large and our Parade Chair, and has lead the CTSD Toys for Tots and Thunderbirds toy fundraiser for many years, and has promoted the charitable event on KUSI many times. He is also a long-time past president of the board, including holding the group together during the difficult years of COVID, and past secretary. David is one of our go-tos for legacy club knowledge and always for friendly conversation.