President's Page - Archives
December 2010
The World of MAFCA Keeps Spinning.
In a few days I will be leaving for Colorado Springs to attend MAFCA's National Awards Banquet. There, I will chair my final meeting as president of this outstanding organization. The speed at which this year has passed simply amazes me. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here and want to encourage every MAFCA member to seriously consider running for the Board of Directors. It's a rewarding and fun time.
If you have not sent in your annual renewal, please do so as soon as you are able. After the beginning of the year, the office staff turns its attention to processing the chapter renewals, so it will be helpful if membership renewals are completed by then. That reminds me, chapters: please send in your annual registration forms as soon as possible.
I recently talked to Jill Sullins who is the registrar for the 2011 Natchez Trace Tour. Registrations are very high and over 10% of those registering are people joining MAFCA, who want to be part of this event. Registrations have come from the north, south, east and west coasts, as well as the heartland; currently 26 states are represented. Before moving to Texas, a friend gave me a book about the Natchez Trace. They had toured it and found it simply to be one their highlight vacations. Janet and I drove it a few years ago and I must say, since that drive, my mind has returned again and again, always thinking of making this a Model A tour. I think all Model A'ers will love this drive. I'm registration #4, what's yours?
If your chapter has ever considered hosting a national event but thought a convention might be bigger than you are ready for, why not consider hosting a National Tour. They are simpler and showcases your area. For more information, contact vp@mafca.com.
As I wind up this year, it's nice to reflect on the year's successes. MAFCA's 2010 successes are too numerous to list all but here are some of my favorites. The revision to the Judging Standards is at the editor and will very shortly be turned over to the printer. The NEW and IMPROVED Fashion Guidelines are out as is the Era Pattern Project. The bylaw revisions, which will help MAFCA operate more efficiently, have been approved by over 90% of votes cast. 2010's International Convention in Vancouver exceeded our greatest expectations. MAFCA kicked off our national tours with the Pony Express Tour and is planning for the Natchez Trace Tour next April, and we reached our goal of driving a million miles. 2010, WHAT A GREAT YEAR! I know 2011 will be even better.
I wish to thank the many people I have worked with and come to know during the year; from the people I have met at activities around the country to those serving on the variety of committees and boards helping to make MAFCA better. I appreciate your efforts and genuine compassion for our hobby. With people like you, I see a bright future for MAFCA.
Garth Shreading
2010 MAFCA President
November 2010
For many, November brings about a slow down in driving the Model A. For me, living in SE Texas, it's my favorite month to be on the road, trees are changing colors and there is a refreshing briskness in the air. For those who are contemplating storing the car for the winter, I hope your season has been fun and exciting and you have taken advantage of the many opportunities offered by MAFCA, the regions and chapters.
I wish to thank the many MAFCA members from around the world that took the time to vote in the recent MAFCA election. The election results have been announced on the website and installation of new Directors will be December 10 in Colorado Springs. I think next year's board will be excellent representatives of our family and looks to be an exciting year for those who get some time behind the wheel of a Model A. I hope you are one. The bylaw revisions were supported by over 90% percent of our voting members. While change is rarely fun, it's often necessary and these changes, while minor in number, will help MAFCA to run more efficiently. Thank you for your support.
The Natchez Trace Trail tour coming next April is shaping up to be a great time of fun. I have been told by many of our friends they are planning to make the trip. I'm planning on making the drive and hope you are. The registration form can be found here on the website or in the November/December issue of The Restorer. A few years ago, Janet and I drove the Trail and while we were in a modern car, all I could think was what a great Model A road it is. I hope you kick off the 2011 season on this tour.
Now is the time to send your registration form in for the National Awards Banquet in Colorado Springs this coming December 8-11. The Pikes Peak chapter has many great activities planned, so don't miss it. Recently, I Googled car museums; it seems like all makes of cars have their own museum, except the Ford Model A? This fact is hard to believe but true. I have just returned from a meeting in Hickory Corners, Michigan where I, along with other Model A enthusiasts, toured the Gilmore Museum, one of the nation's premier car museums and impressed I was. While there, the Model A Ford Foundation (MAFFI) signed an agreement to build the Model A Museum at this world-class facility. I was able to ask the leadership of MAFFI questions about their plans, commitment and needs and pledge my continuing support for this legacy. Now is the time for the Model A community to get involved. If you are a MAFCA member, you should have recently received a flyer asking for your support. I hope you give it serious consideration
If your chapter or region is hosting an event in the coming months, why not contact George Tynan, president of MAFFI to see if MAFFI can have representative come by and talk to your gathering about the Model A Museum. Or, maybe to provide information on the museum that can be inserted in the registration packets. Let's all support this important project.
October 2010
The World of MAFCA Keeps Spinning.
Congratulations and thanks to all of those who helped to make the MILLION MILE CHALLENGE a complete success. It's great to see so many Model A's on the road, demonstrating to the world just what a great car these Model A Fords are.
MAFCA's National Awards Banquet in Colorado Springs is coming together quickly and I hope you take advantage of the Pike's Peak chapter's hospitality and plan on attending. The dates are December 8-11 and the schedule of activities looks just great. I know we will all have a fun time. To register, go to the Pikes Peak Chapter web site.
Watch your mail, as MAFCA is sending out a special offer just in time for Christmas. Along with this special offer is some exciting information from MAFFI that will benefit the entire Model A community. Please take the time to read it and hopefully support this great activity.
The November / December issue of The Restorer contains information and registration form for the Natchez Trace Trail Tour. Judging by the emails I have received, there is great interest in this tour. Be sure to register as early as possible. The registration form will also be posted on our web site in a few short weeks. The dates of the tour are April 9-15. We will depart from Nashville and drive south to Natchez, Mississippi. I have driven this historic road, which is run by the National Park Administration, and can think of no better Model A road. No commercial vehicles and a maximum speed limit of 50 mph make this an exceptional road for a national tour. Take some time and check it out on line; you'll want to go.
If you haven't sent in your membership renewal, please do so as soon as possible. The earlier you are able to get it in, the more helpful it is for the office staff as the beginning of the year becomes very busy as they process chapter renewals.
Be sure to check out the MAFCA calendars both in The Restorer and on line for what is happening, I know you won't want to miss out!
Garth Shreading
2010 MAFCA President
September 2010
The World of MAFCA Keeps Turning.
As summer winds down and cool refreshing days of fall come upon us, I hope you take advantage of many opportunities being offered by our chapters around the world.
The 2010 elections are in full swing. For information on the candidates, I encourage you to check out the election information on our web site.
Also on the ballot is a bylaw revision proposal that the Board of Directors is recommending. There are three main issues. First, changing the Annual Meeting to the National Awards Banquet. This is being done to help bring us into conformity with California's Corporation Code. The second revision pertains to our election process that is designed to help the process and provide candidates with a better opportunity to get their message out. Finally, changes that were recommended by the attorney. These are primarily grammatical and consistent wording throughout the document. For more detailed information, check out the May/June issue of The Restorer, page 13.
If you haven't done so yet, it's time to register for the 2010 Annual Members Meeting being hosted by the Pikes Peak Model A Club. The Annual Meeting provides you with an opportunity to meet many of MAFCA's leaders (both past and present), attend some great seminars and visit one of America's great cities, Colorado Springs. The dates are December 8-11, 2010. For more information, visit the Pikes Peak Web Site. Don't forget the International Model A Day is September 18th. This is great way for us to show our cars by having thousands of Model A's on the road at the same time. It's also a great opportunity to invite friends to participate and introduce them to our great hobby. So get the cars shined, the tires pumped up and let's hit the road together. The Million Mile Challenge is heading to the wire. Dick Przywitowski tells me it's going to be close but is looking good. Be sure to report your mileage so it can be counted in the totals. Also if you drove previously but failed to report your mileage, it's not too late to email them to millionmiles@mafca.com Don't forget to get your membership renewals in. You can renew your MAFCA membership by visiting the MAFCA Store and click on Membership Renewal or by mailing your renewal form in to Headquarters.
Garth Shreading
2010 MAFCA President
August 2010
I write this from the airport after an exciting week at the MAFCA International Convention in Vancouver, BC. The Lions Gate Chapter provided us with a week full of terrific activities and adventures -- seeing both old and new friends. Over 600 attendees from six countries were welcomed by many friendly and gracious Canadians as we explored this beautiful city in our Model A's. I wish to thank Brian and Mary Carlson, Carl and Donna Becker, Al Glen, Terry and Christine Heselton and the rest of the Lions Gate Chapter who took part to make this an occasion we will remember for years to come. As we left Vancouver, there were smiles, hugs, and handshakes.
Watch the mail as your membership renewal form and ballot should soon be arriving. It is helpful to the office if we can process renewals as soon as possible. On the form, please include the names of both spouses and note any necessary corrections to your address label.
Be sure to cast your votes for both the Board of Directors and bylaw revisions. This year, we have five openings for directors and seven candidates. I was able to spend some time with each of the candidates at the convention and, I must say, MAFCA will be in good hands as all are impressive people. The Board of Directors is requesting your support for the bylaw amendments. Additional information can be found at www.mafca.com.
CONGRATULATIONS to Rick Black and Doug Clayton for their induction into MAFCA's Honorary Life Membership. Honorary Life Membership is the highest honor MAFCA can bestow on a member. Both of these gentlemen are particularly deserving of this prestigious award for their long-term commitment to MAFCA and our Model A hobby.
Garth Shreading
2010 MAFCA President
July 2010
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.
Don't forget the National Awards Banquet, December 8-11, in Colorado Springs. An application can be found in the last issue of The Restorer or at www.mafca.com in the DOWNLOADS area (FORMS)
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.
Speaking of fashions, the Era Fashion Pattern Catalog is here! This outstanding catalog displays many patterns spanning years 1925 to 1931, from underwear to formal wear, for women, men and children. This 80-page catalog can now be purchased through our website in the MAFCA STORE for those seamstresses wanting to expand their wardrobe.
Garth Shreading
2010 MAFCA President
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 National Awards Banquet 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 National Awards Banquet. Obviously, this is very unlikely to happen so after much review and discussion it was decided to replace Annual Membership Meeting with 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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October/November 2009
I'm glad to report that MAFCA has secured another Membership Discount. Thanks to the efforts of our Advertising Director George Tynan, we have secured a discount program from BRASSWORKS Radiator. When ordering from Brassworks, give your MAFCA membership number and you will receive either a 10% discount or free shipping. Either offers a substantial savings. See their ad in the November/December issue of The Restorer magazine. We are continually working to obtain more discounts for our membership.
During the first week in October, MAFCA attended the Hershey Swap Meet in Hershey, PA. MAFCA's presence at Hershey was the best ever. We set up in a 20 ft. X 30 ft tent, with 25 chairs for seminars. Sandra had new banners made for the top front and rear of the tent. All of the tables were covered with yellow vinyl with the MAFCA logo which resulted in a very professional presences. As usual, we flew the MAFCA helium balloon. The big sellers were Tiny Tips and Book #8. Seminars were given by Les Andrews as advertised. They were all well attended. He gave 3 each day. And, a 4th on Thursday. This was quite a drawing card for MAFCA. A lot of people came into the tent which resulted in a lot of sales of MAFCA merchandise. The economy definitely affected the Hershey turnout. There was a noticeable reduction in vendors and attendees. Yet, it was a very successful event for MAFCA.
The election process for the 2010 Board of Directors has been completed. I'm glad to report that the number of ballots submitted were nearly double of last year's election. I want to thank everyone that voted. Every vote makes a difference.
The newly elected Directors are: Stephanie Grundman from Wisconsin, Chuck Christensen from California, Jim Morris (incumbent) from New York, and Alex Janke from California. Congratulations to the newly elected Directors.
The Board is wrapping up business for the year and preparing for the National Awards Banquet on Dec 2 through 5 in Brookfield, WI. There is still time to register for the National Awards Banquet. It's a beautiful winter wonderland and some interesting things are planned to see and do. Get your registration in quickly. This years' Literary Awards and Newsletter Awards will be announced and presented at the Banquet.
This has been a very rewarding and exciting year for me as your 2009 National President. I'll wrap it all up for you in my December President's Page report.
Les Andrews
2009 MAFCA President
September 2009
The election for the new Directors is still in process. If you have not voted, there is still time to do so. All ballots must be postmarked by October 15, 2009. Every vote counts so I encourage everyone to be part of the process and vote for your selection for the next slate of Directors. You should have received your ballots in a separate mailing with your membership renewal in late August.
Our office staff of three (3) records all the membership renewals. This is a huge task for our office staff to record 14,000 renewals this time of year. The early renewal registration notice allows our small office staff ample time to record all renewals prior to printing of the Jan/Feb issue of The Restorer magazine. Late renewals are costly because of the separate mailings. Our office staff is to be congratulated for the amount of work they do to maintain business at our headquarters office for 14,000 + members.
In the 4th quarter alone, they receive and record all membership renewals (13,000 +), maintain and update members records, ship over 900 orders for MAFCA products, receive over 5,000 letters, phone calls, and email correspondence from members. You can help by sending your ballots and membership renewal in early.
Be sure to pre-order your 2010 Membership Roster on your Membership Renewal card. All Rosters must be pre-ordered. Due to the amount of work to prepare the 2010 Membership Roster after renewals have been submitted, and to allow time for printing, the 2010 Membership Roster will not be mailed until April 1, 2010. How To Restore Your Model A – Volume 8 is now available. Go to the MAFCA Store on the MAFCA website to order your copy.
Archie Cress and Frank Rosin have been producing the A-World publication for our youth for over 12 years. Congratulations for a great job those two dedicated members have volunteered to do for our youth. Renewal cards are being sent to all current recipients of “A-World”. I want to remind and encourage all parents, grandparents, and Youth themselves, to register for A-World when your renewal card comes in the mail. Your must fill out the registration card and return it (free registration) to the A-World office to receive your free quarterly publication. These publications include a wide range of articles, games, puzzles, and information about the Model A that will help keep the youth involved in the Model A.
Your Board is still working on Member Discount Benefits for the membership. I will report more on this program next month.
Les Andrews
2009 MAFCA President
August 2009
Good News For Our Membership!
The Model A Ford Club of America has just entered into a partnership with Motel 6. Our members will receive a 10% discount when booking reservations with Motel 6. Go directly to our Home Page and read about the new benefit for the membership. Click on the Motel 6 logo and get all of the information.
When I first came on as President, one of the first priorities I gave myself was to see if we could get some benefit 'Perks' for our membership, such as what other corporations make available for their members. The partnership with Motel 6 is the first we have landed. I'm working on others and hope we can land many more benefit Perks for the membership.
On Sept 11, the Board of Directors will conduct an open planning session beginning at 2 pm Friday afternoon at our Headquarters office @ 250 S. Cypress St., La Habra, CA. This planning session is open to all members that would like to attend. The Board Meeting is on Saturday, Sept 12, from 8am to 5pm. Board meetings are also open to all members.
Orders are now being taken for the 2010 Membership Roster. Pre-Order your 2010 Membership Roster with your 2010 Dues Renewal. All 2010 Membership Rosters must be Pre-Ordered.
Registration for the 2009 National Awards Banquet in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, December 2-5, is still available. Registration forms are available on the web site. Go to "Calendar of Events" or the 2009 Meeting page and download the Registration Form for the National Awards Banquet. I look forward to seeing you there.
Hershey Swap Meet - Oct 7-10 is just weeks away. You will want to visit the MAFCA Tent at space RCH 8-12. Don't miss the seminar at the MAFCA tent titled: "Timing the Model A For Power" or "Saving The Babbitt". The seminar will be presented at 10am, 1pm, and 3pm all four days by Les Andrews. There will also be a book signing for the Mechanics Handbooks by Les Andrews. You can purchase all of the Mechanics Handbook series at the MAFCA tent.
New Christmas Cards are now available and can be purchased on-line at the MAFCA store.
A 10% Chapter discount is available on all items with a purchase of $100 or more. We are also offering a 10% discount on the Model A Banks when ordered on-line from the MAFCA Store.
The current MAFCA membership is at 13,500 and growing, with 304 registered Chapters.
Ballots will be in the membership hands within a week, if not already, for the upcoming elections for 2010 Board of Directors. I encourage everyone to VOTE! Only you can decide who will serve on the Board of Directors for 2010/2011 and be responsible to run the corporation's affairs. We should not take the election lightly. We need the best people possible to conduct the business of this corporation.
In the meantime, drive your Model A everywhere you can and enjoy this great country of ours.
Les Andrews
2009 MAFCA President
July 2009
Fellow Model A'ers,
Summer is here and there are a lot of Model A activities happening around the country. Join the many tours and club activities around the country, driving your Model A and showing the country what a great time can be had in a Model A.
Your Board of Directors recently met in Breckenridge, Colorado to hold our Board of Directors meeting. We were invited by the Mile High Chapter to attend their High Country Tour. Congratulations to the Mile High Chapter for hosting a great Mile High Meet.
While at the meet I had the pleasure of awarding MAFCA's first 50,000 mile award to Dave and Susan Jones of the Santa Clara Valley chapter, Santa Clara, California, a testimony of how durable the Model A is and the joy of driving long distances and often. Record your mileage with your Chapter President for verification and submit to MAFCA headquarters towards earning mileage patches and decal.
Planning is now under way to begin a "Million Mile Challenge", sanctioned by MAFCA . Check the MAFCA web site as plans develop to find out how every MAFCA member can participate. June 19, 2010 is the 150th year celebration of the Pony Express run between Sacramento California and St Joseph, Missouri. This will be a sanctioned MAFCA Tour that is in the planning stages. Watch for more information on these two events on the MAFCA web site and in The Restorer magazine. Both of these sanctioned MAFCA driving events will add excitement to your chapters and members.
Your MAFCA Board of Directors are enthusiastically looking for ways to improve benefits for all its members. Check this page next month for more information on MAFCA benefits.
The membership can be proud of the eight Directors now serving the membership and responsibly taking care of corporate business. Every one of these volunteers is doing an outstanding job. Check page 4 in The Restorer magazine for a list of your Directors and their email and phone numbers.
Check out this President's Message page next month as I continue to keep the membership informed and involved in MAFCA happenings. If you have any questions I can be contacted at President@mafca.com.
Regards,
Les Andrews
2009 MAFCA President
