About - The Semas's

We Met At The Claremont Resort

In 1983, Al joined the Claremont as a bellman. In 1985, Lisa joined the Claremont and worked at the front desk. Al and Lisa worked many different shifts together and often saw each other in the employee cafeteria. Al drove a 1966 Willies CJ5 Jeep and Lisa drove a 1984 CJ7 Jeep. Being the only two employees that drove jeeps was a great conversation starter that led to many other lunches together and eventually after-work meetups. In 1987 Al and Lisa Married.

Lisa's Jeep

Lisa's 1984 CJ7 was her pride and joy. After we moved in together, we used this iconic vehicle as our primary mode of transportation for adventurous road trips and frequent visits to family for about a year. The memories we made exploring new destinations and creating unforgettable experiences together in this classic car are truly priceless. In fact, this beloved CJ7 became an integral part of our journey as a couple, symbolizing our spirit of adventure and love for exploration. One particularly special memory was driving to Monterey on our wedding night, where we embarked on a romantic and unforgettable escapade under the starlit sky, cherishing each moment together.

Al's Jeep

My 1966 Willy's CJ5 was a classic beauty that I dedicated countless hours to restoring and reviving in the mid to late 1980's. This vintage gem became my ultimate source of joy and adventure, even though it wasn't the most practical vehicle I ever owned. Whether navigating off-road trails or cruising the country roads, the sheer exhilaration of driving this immaculate machine never ceased to amaze me. Memories of the wind in my hair and the thrill of conquering rugged terrains still bring a smile to my face. Reviving this automotive masterpiece was no easy feat, but the immense satisfaction and pleasure it brought me were worth it. My 1966 Willy's CJ5 holds a special place in my heart, as it represents more than just a vehicle; it embodies a passion for craftsmanship, an appreciation for history, and the enduring love affair we have with the open road.