President's Page
July 2010
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As I write this, the 2010 International Convention is only a couple of weeks away and I’m looking forward to seeing my many friends from around the Model A world. Registrations have been much stronger than anyone anticipated and I hope you are planning to attend. |
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Les Andrews called me a few days ago to give me some great news. Since January, Les has been working almost full-time with the Era Fashion Committee editing the new Fashion Guidelines. He called to let me know they had finished the job and the guidelines were now ready to go to print. This completely new volume is the definitive authority on era fashions and will be available at the International Convention in Vancouver and then on our website in the MAFCA STORE. Garth Shreading |
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June 2010
It's a short message this month as I'm on the road.The MAFCA Pony Express Tour is in process and reports are what a great event it is. Registrations have been high and I know a lot of people are looking forward to making this expedition through the GREAT AMERICAN WEST. I appreciate all the hard work done by Dick Przywitowski, Jim Spawn, Mary Tribbett, Dave Vestal, and the many others helping them along way. We soon will be announcing our next national tour, so keep an eye open.
The July/August issue of The Restorer includes information on the 2010 Membership meeting being hosted by the Pikes Peak A’s. These meetings provide a great opportunity to meet the many people who help keep MAFCA’s wheels turning as well as some simply great fun and fellowship. If you have never had the opportunity to be part of a Members Meeting, I encourage you to join in by coming to Colorado Springs this December.
Garth Shreading
2010 MAFCA President
May 2010
We’re entering the height of the driving season. I hope you’re wearing the tread on your Model A’s tires. The Million Mile Challenge is ongoing with those participating MAFCA members receiving a “special gift” for joining in this entertaining activity (assuming we meet the objective of one million miles). Currently, we are on target, but the monthly mileage requirement is jumping up this month, so we need all to help out. If you haven’t reported any mileage yet or are just now getting the car on the road, it’s not too late. Check out the details on the MAFCA website.
Time is running short for those interested in running for the Board. I’m often asked about both time and financial commitment of the Board members. Financially, MOST of your travel and operational expenses are covered.
I think it's fair to say that a director can expect to spend between $500 to $1,000 per year out of his/her pocket. Airfare (or driving cost) is reimbursed and two nights of lodging are covered for meetings that directors are required to attend. Out-of-pocket costs like postage, copies, etc. are also reimbursed.
Time commitment is another issue. This is a corporation, with employees and a substantial operating budget. Depending on the director’s job, one can expect to spend 20+ hours per week. I must say though, that it is both fun and rewarding and you do get to work with some great people.
The remaining details are being finalized for MAFCA’s 2010 International Convention in Vancouver. Like the dozens of people I have talked to, I’m looking forward to going and seeing my many Model A friends from around the world. I know the steering committee has been working hard and deserves our gratitude for the countless hours spent. For those people traveling from outside of Canada, you MUST have proper travel documents, including vehicle insurance and passports. Be sure to check out Lions Gate’s website for information.
Garth Shreading
2010 MAFCA President
April 2010
It was a joy to be part of the Dallas Model A Club’s 50th Anniversary Celebration. About 250 chapter members gathered at the South Fork Ranch (TV’s Dallas fame) for the occasion. As I thought about what I wanted to tell them, I received an email on my cell phone and there it was: “50 years of change.” It occurred to me that fifty years ago we picked up a telephone, dialed a few numbers and presto--we were talking to someone miles away. Surprisingly, it was not much different than that at the end of the Model A production period. Yes, the phone looked different but functioned much the same way as they did when the Dallas Chapter was formed.
Today, things have changed drastically as we now take our telephones where we go. They not only receive calls but also email, photos, some give us directions on where we want to go and some even TV. Yes, while it seems much has changed, there is something special about those simpler cars and times and that’s what attracts many of us to this great hobby. Congratulations to all MAFCA chapters celebrating their anniversaries, especially those having been part of MAFCA for 50 years.
I had a telephone call recently from Jim Spawn, The Restorer editor. As you may know, Jim has been under the weather but is feeling much better and has received great news from his doctor. He is slowly getting back to work and will continue to produce our great magazine.
I received word that registrations are going strong for the 150th Anniversary of Pony Express Tour. If you haven’t registered and are planning on going, now is the time to get your registration in. This is going to be, simply put, an outstanding event. Some have asked if you must be a MAFCA member to participate. As you can understand, since this is a MAFCA sponsored event, MAFCA membership is a prerequisite to participating. Be sure to regularly visit the Pony Express page for updated information.
It’s time for the rubber to hit the road (literally). The Million Mile Challenge monthly goals have been reached up to now but the monthly goals have increased from 25,000 to 100,000 miles. For much of the nation, March has been colder than normal, but I'm sure that has not detoured our die-hard Model A people. I recently participated in the Poor Boy Tour here in Texas and had an opportunity to talk to many who are taking part in this activity. Are you?
One of the most enjoyable aspects of our hobby is being able to serve our fellow Model A’ers and I can think of no greater privilege than serving as a MAFCA Director (not to mention meeting and working with a bunch of fun people.) Why not give it some thought and should you have any questions, our membership director, Dave Jones, will be happy to answer them. Dave may be contacted at membership@mafca.com.
Garth Shreading
2010 MAFCA President
March 2010
MAFCA member registrations continue to come in, with MAFCA membership at near all time records. This is a reflection on not only the health of MAFCA but our chapters as well. Working together, I believe we can continue to strengthen each other. I'm going to ask both the office staff and Board of Directors to encourage MAFCA members not active in a chapter to get involved and support the local chapter in their area. And, I want to ask chapters to encourage their members to join MAFCA. Together we can continue to make MAFCA the leader in the antique car hobby.
Some of you have heard that The Restorer editor, Jim Spawn, has been ill. Jim is currently being treated and is looking forward to getting back in the saddle. I can only imagine that his wife, Melissa, is also looking forward to getting Jim out and about! In the meantime, The Restorer continues to be a main source of information and communication. Through the capable hands of Jim’s staff, working with MAFCA’s Publication Director, Alex Janke, we will continue to produce the quality magazine that we all have come to expect. Because of Jim’s sudden illness, the March/April issue is a few days late getting to the printer. Thanks for your understanding. Jim, you are in our thoughts and prayers. Get back soon--we miss you.
The steering committee at 2010 International Meet in Vancouver continues to report on the outstanding response from around the world. For many of us, the Olympics have created an excitement about visiting this world-class city. A year ago, with the world economy in shambles, we were concerned about attendance. But we should never doubt the dedication and commitment of our members’ support. Because of strong demand, the steering committee has expanded the tours offered. Now, in addition to the many great tours planned, they are offering two one-day tours to Victoria (Vancouver Island) and world-famous Butchart Gardens. When I was about 10, my family took a vacation to British Columbia; one of the things that stands out after these many years is a tour to the Gardens. It must have been impressive to impact a 10-year-old kid’s mind for all of these years. These tours are limited in capacity, so don’t delay in registering; go to the Lions Gate web site and click on 2010 International Convention for more information.
While you visit the Lions Gate website, take a look around. This website was selected as MAFCA Chapter Website of the Year for 2009. It’s a great demonstration of what the Internet offers our chapters.
The time has finally arrived! It’s time to register for the 150th Anniversary of the Pony Express Tour. Dick Przywitowski reports that registrations are coming in and I know you don’t want to miss this great event. Information and a registration form can be found here.
Garth Shreading
2010 MAFCA President
February 2010
This is always an exciting and busy time for MAFCA as plans for the year start to come to fruition. As you no doubt are aware, this year’s activities are not only many but also creative. From the International Convention to local chapter activities, this year offers something for all to enjoy.
Some of you are considering a run for MAFCA’s Board of Directors; this important and rewarding job is open to MAFCA members from around the land. While the work is hard and time-consuming, you meet and work with the best people in the world, Model A people. Most of all, serving on the board is fun and challenging. For more information, check out the March/April issue of The Restorer or send an email to Dave Jones at members@mafca.com.
MAFCA is fortunate to have three dedicated office staff, Sandra, Lisa and Brenda. I'm often amazed at the amount of work they perform. In fall, besides their normal work, they must distribute member and chapter renewal information and then turn around in winter and record the incoming information. With over 14,000 memberships and 300 chapters, you can imagine how demanding it is. You can help them by ensuring your membership and chapter renewals are complete, legible and mailed on time.
At January’s board meeting, the revisions to the bylaws were approved for presentation to the membership review and vote. Our plan is to publish a review of the changes in The Restorer and post a side-by-side comparison on the web. Any member requesting a copy of the proposed bylaws may do so by contacting the office and a set will be mailed. Most of the recommended changes are on the advice of our attorney who specializes in mutual benefit corporations such as MAFCA. Since the creation of our bylaws in 1957, changes in legal terminology have necessitated an update of some portions of the bylaws. Having said that, there is one change that is necessary because of law. California requires 1/3 of our voting membership be present at the Annual Membership Meeting. This means that over 4,600 members must attend the Annual Membership Meeting. Obviously, this is very unlikely to happen so after much review and discussion it was decided to replace Annual Membership Meeting with a National Awards Banquet. All of our current practices being held at the Annual Meeting will remain as they have historically been. Membership Meetings can still be called by either MAFCA’s membership or Board of Directors so the impact is minimal but helps us to conform to California Law.
There has been some confusion caused by a rumor that both the Welcome Party and Banquet at the August convention in Vancouver are full. While registrations are higher than anticipated, there is space available. Additionally, the steering committee is proactively working with Vice President Jill Sullins to explore possible alternatives should they be necessary to ensure adequate accommodations for all. So make sure to get your 2010 Convention registration in.
Garth Shreading
2010 MAFCA President
January 2010
I just arrived home from the Annual Members’ Meeting in Milwaukee, hosted by the Great Lakes A’s; what a great time we had. For a SE Texas guy, the change in weather was enjoyable as we had a couple inches of snowfall one night and sunshine most of the rest of the time.
The Great Lakes A’s did an outstanding job making us all feel welcome and entertained throughout the event. Whether one was attending a Christmas play or inspecting the rides at the Harley Davidson Museum, all those who attended had smiles on their faces.
2010 looks to be an exciting year for MAFCA. Currently, we are revising both the Judging Standards and Fashion Guidelines, both of which should be out later this year. The Santa Clara Valley Chapter, working with many people throughout the country, is completing the Fashion Pattern Project. This project will provide to our members the ability to choose era patterns and sew fashionable ensembles. Not only is MAFCA coming forth with new and interesting technical guidelines and era fashions projects, but we haven’t forgotten about getting behind the wheel of a good o’l Model A. After all, that’s what brought us together in the first place.
The 150th Anniversary of the Pony Express Tour, the Million Mile Challenge and, of course, the 2010 International Convention in Vancouver, BC, all will provide us with some great times and memories of running down the road in our Model A’s. Remember, the International Convention will be here before you know it. If you have not started arranging for your travel documents don’t delay. And it’s not too late to start planning for the Annual Members Meeting in Colorado Springs next December. More information can be found about these activities on our website or take a look in The Restorer Magazine.
Garth Shreading
2010 MAFCA President
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