If You’re Dreaming of the Ultimate California Road Trip, Look No Further!
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REGISTRATION IS STILL OPEN!!
Join the AACA's Santa Barbara Region for a truly epic car tour!
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September 25-29, 2023
Western Divisional Tour
California Central Coast
Over four tour days and countless picturesque miles, you’ll experience the best of California’s fabled Southern-most Central Coast. Registration is online and simple. You can pay by credit card or by check via www.aacasb.org.
Your value-packed registration fee includes three full buffet breakfasts, three unique and memorable dinners, including an enchanting sunset dinner party at a historic and magically picturesque vineyard, and our Fabulous Finale Gala, as well as tours, and visits to unique and interesting points of interest.
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TOUR DAY 1 is Your Day! Choose from wonderfully curated self-guided tours with fun stops along the way. Treasure-hunt the Antiquing Trail, take a lovely ride to Jalama Beach, or, stay close and join our Community Antique Car Parade, led by none other than the amazing BATMOBILE designed in 1966 by the one and only George Barris. While George passed in 2015, his daughter, Joji Barris, will be speaking on the life and times of her dad and the Batmobile at the conclusion of the parade during an event open to the public.
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TOUR DAY 2 we wind our way thru the Santa Ynez Valley’s “Sideways” wine trail with stops, sips, lunch, and shopping. Enjoy romantically hazy views of mountain-hugged horizons and scenic vine-laden hillsides.
TOUR DAY 3 we follow the area's fabled Stagecoach trail to Santa Barbara’s beautiful world-renowned architecture, pristine beaches, shopping, museums, and fabulous food.
TOUR DAY 4 finds us exploring local backroads, and the unique landmarks, plentiful museums, shopping, old world architecture, and authentic food and bakeries of Solvang, California’s own authentically Danish American town.
Registration: $600 Driver & Car / $500 Passengers
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Host Hotel: Santa Ynez Marriott
~ Pet friendly, free parking
~ Special AACA Rate: $179/night
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RV Resort: Flying Flags RV Resort
~ Many options & rates available
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Original Batmobile to Lead Antique Car Parade During
2023 Western Divisional Tour September 25-29
Photos Supplied By Joji Barris, courtesy of the George Barris
This is a member submitted story.
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Buckle up for a time-traveling adventure as the iconic 1966 BATMOBILE takes the lead in the Antique Car Parade scheduled for Day 1 of the 2023 Western Divisional Tour. This event brings together car enthusiasts and history aficionados alike, with the legendary BATMOBILE (part of the esteemed Barris family collection) front and center in an enchanting Antique Car Parade through local communities and business districts, including routes that incorporate local schools and senior living communities.
Presented by the Santa Barbara Region AACA and dedicated to “sharing smiles & giving back,” the Parade pays homage to the trailblazing George Barris, a visionary whose influence on automotive design reverberates through TV and movie production, as well as crafting unique celebrity cars of the ‘60s and ‘70s.
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ABOVE: Adam West & Burt Ward - Batman, Robin on their way back to the Bat Cave - shot from TV show
BELOW: George Barris and Barris Kustom crew putting together the 1966 TV Batmobile at Barris Kustom shop in North Hollywood - they only had 15 days to complete for the TV show Batman
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In addition to unique and rare AACA member tour cars, antique gems owned by locals will also grace the parade as it motors through local business areas, driving by schools and through local senior communities, including a stop at the infamous TV personality Rona Barrett’s Golden Inn and Village.
Adding to the excitement, the parade route will showcase a heartwarming sight: local school students donning Batman capes. These young enthusiasts on an engaging field trip will enjoy an enthralling history lesson as they witness the impressive procession of cars, and meet and engage with Joji Barris, daughter of the legendary George Barris.
The energy continues as Joji takes center stage at the esteemed Santa Ynez Carriage Museum. A free event and open to the public, attendees will be treated to her firsthand insights into the legacy of the BATMOBILE and her father’s profound impact on TV and movie automotive design. Parade cars, arranged for display, will provide an opportunity for attendees to intimately appreciate these automotive marvels while reflecting on the groundbreaking work of George Barris.
But the excitement doesn't end there! The AACA's 2023 Western Divisional Tour is still welcoming participants to join the fun-filled four-day adventure from September 25th to 29th. From meandering through picturesque routes to indulging in the local wine trail, from exploring Santa Barbara to relishing an unforgettable Vineyard dinner, from an unforgettable evening at the Mendenhall Museum of Gas Pumps & Petrolina to visiting an ostrich farm, from immersing in the charm of Solvang to celebrating with our newfound friends at the Finale Gala with none other than members of the “Rat Track Tribute” and Sandy Hackett, Buddy Hackett’s amazing son, to entertain us. Every day of the tour promises unique experiences that celebrate the richness of automotive history and the beauty of California’s southernmost Central Coast. Won’t you join us?!
Sampling of Parade Cars for Day-1 of the 2023 Western Divisional Tour
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77th Revival AAA Glidden Tour Heads to Thomasville, Georgia
Registration Deadline Extended!! You Still Have Time to Sign Up!!
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October 22-27, 2023
Revival AAA Glidden Tour
Thomasville, GA
Registration Deadline
Extended: September 5
Registration: We have a NEW REGISTRATION FORM with updated hotel information. Please use this form to register for the tour.
Tour Contacts:
Tour Hosts: Steve, Blanche and David Gordon, 229-226-2266
Reminder: This tour is for cars manufactured prior to 1943 as originally built, only safety modifications permitted.
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Hershey is Less Than FIVE Weeks Away!
Will We See You in Chocolatetown?
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Eastern Fall Nationals
Hershey, PA
TUESDAY, October 3 –
FRIDAY, October 6
The Hershey Region AACA invites you to make the pilgrimage to antique car Mecca this October. Come join the more than 250,000 visitors who come each year to experience Hershey. The Hershey show is considered the largest antique car show and flea market in the world boasting more than 9,000 vendor spaces in its flea market, a car corral with 800-1,000 antique cars for sale and culminates in a great car show with 1,000 vintage cars on display.
If you registered for the flea market or car corral, you should expect to see your packet with your windshield stickers and instructions sometime the first week of September, if not sooner.
If you registered to show your car on FRIDAY, you will need to pick up your packet on the Chocolate Field at the FOLDER DISTRIBUTION tent located next to the Hershey Region main tent. The FOLDER DISTRIBUTION tent is open Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Packets will also be available for pick-up on Friday morning at the show vehicle entrance behind the Giant Center.
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WE NEED JUDGES!!
Judges' registration for Hershey is open online here. Here is a link to the
HURRY! The judges' registration deadline is September 15.
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COME JOIN US FOR THE LARGEST
ANTIQUE CAR SHOW & FLEA MARKET IN THE WORLD!
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Important 2023 Hershey Reminders |
Show will run Tuesday, October 3 through Friday, October 6
Flea Market set-up will be Monday, October 2
Judging School will be Thursday, October 5, at 2 p.m.
Judges Breakfast will be Friday, October 6, at 7 a.m.
Car show will be Friday, October 6
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Come Visit AACA National at the Hershey Show |
AACA merchandise will be at these locations in the flea market:
Chocolate Field in our blue trailer – C3H 5-7, C3I 5-7 (Tuesday - Friday)
Green Field in front of the Giant Center in a large white tent (Tuesday - Thursday)
Note: Official Hershey poster artist David Snyder will be at the blue trailer location
selling and autographing posters Tuesday – Thursday from 9 a.m.-4 p.m..
AACA merchandise will be adjacent to the show field
in a large white tent on FRIDAY during the car show.
Note: Official Hershey poster artist David Snyder will be selling and autographing posters in a tent adjacent to the show field during the car show.
AACA membership will be at these locations in the flea market:
Chocolate Field in front of our blue trailer – C3H 5-7, C3I 5-7 (Tuesday - Friday)
Chocolate Field C3G 5-9 (Tuesday - Thursday)
(Reps from our NEW Element3 Health Medicare Advantage program will be onsite as well)
Green Field in front of the Giant Center in a large white tent (Tuesday - Thursday)
AACA membership will be adjacent to the show field on FRIDAY during the car show.
New memberships and membership renewals will be taken at all of these locations all week.
AACA Headquarters building, including the AACA Library,
will be open to the public Monday-Thursday from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Don’t forget about the Library yard sale on
Tuesday from 4-7 p.m. behind AACA Headquarters!
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Car Corral Spaces, Race Car/High-Wheeler Event & Juniors at Hershey |
Car Corral Spaces WILL Be Available
There will be a limited number of car corral spaces available onsite at the Hershey show. They will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. If you would like to enter a car into the car corral, you will need to show up at the show at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, October 3. You MUST be a current paid AACA member. The vehicle MUST be 25 years old or older, you MUST be able to drive the vehicle on to the car corral and the vehicle MUST be AACA compliant – no hot rods allowed.
Race Car Condition Run & High-Wheeler Event
Come see the race cars and high-wheelers race around the track in the Hershey Stadium starting at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, October 5. There is a 75+-year history of race cars driving around the stadium, starting with the midget car races during the depression. Today, Hershey is one of the only places where spectators still get to see these cars in action!
Juniors at Hershey
Juniors at Hershey is a project of the Hershey Region Youth Committee. Join us for the 25th Annual Junior Display for youth of all ages. The event will be held on Friday, October 6, from 12 to 2 p.m. in front of the Giant Center. The Hershey Region Chuck Wagon will be on display.
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LAST CHANCE to Order Your Official AACA Car Sign for Hershey!
Deadline to Order: September 6
Car signs ordered now through September 6 will be available for pick up
on the Hershey Show Field at the AACA merchandise tent on Friday, October 6.
Any sign requiring shipping will not ship until Monday, October 9.
Any request received after September 6 will NOT be processed until late October.
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This is the only official AACA recommended car show sign and is intended for use at AACA events. The AACA car sign format, styled similarly to other Concours signs, when properly weighted or staked would limit potential damage to vehicles if bumped or blown. Signs are 16.5" tall and 12" wide and are made of hard plastic to withstand the elements. These signs are only available to AACA members and are custom created to tell your vehicle's story and history.
The signs cost $45 plus shipping, and an image can be added to your sign for an additional $5. Please allow 4 weeks for the production of your sign from start to finish.
Contact Jon Curtis at AACA Headquarters if you would like to have a sign made: jcurtis@aaca.org or 717-534-1910.
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World-Renowned Automotive Artist David Snyder Thrilled to Create
His Second Official Hershey Fall Nationals’ Poster
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Over the years, the official Hershey event poster has become a highly collectible and sought-after souvenir for many show attendees. For the second year in a row, world-renowned automotive artist David Snyder received the honor of creating a unique work of art to grace the 2023 official Hershey poster. The 2023 poster is dedicated to the Chris and Kathleen Koch Library and Research Center, and National Parts Depot (NPD) is the official sponsor. The posters are 20"x24" and only 1,000 of them will be available. Here’s your sneak peek at the 2023 poster…
Where will you be able to get your poster? The posters will be on sale at Hershey Region souvenir tents and at the AACA National merchandise trailer and tent on North Chocolate at C3I 5-7. David will be at the tent on North Chocolate at C3I 5-7 Tuesday-Thursday from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. to sign posters. On Friday, he will be signing posters in a tent on the show field near AACA National Headquarters during the car show. You may also pick one up inside the Hershey Lodge on Wednesday and Thursday from 9 a.m.-9 p.m. in the Cocoa 5 room where David will have a full display of his artwork.
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You’ve Never Seen Anything Like This Before!
AACA, BHA & SAH 3-in-1 Event
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Fall Hershey will offer attendees a bigger and better than ever AACA Library & Research Center Yard Sale on the afternoon of Tuesday, October 3. Bigger and better because in addition to the AACA Library’s tent with its offerings of duplicates of literature, books, and other items, a second tent will have still more vintage literature and books offered by the Buick Heritage Alliance (BHA). Then, there will be a third tent in which the Society of Automotive Historians (SAH) will host in excess of 20 authors of current books covering a myriad of automotive topics from tech, to marque and company histories, biographies, and even automotive adventure fiction.
Just to keep things in perspective, AACA was founded in 1935. SAH came along a bit over 50 years ago in 1969. BHA is the youngest of the three, quickly putting itself on a solid foundation since its 2004 establishment by building an awesome collection of Buick literature, documentation, and even a few venerable Buick motorcars. As 2021 drew to a close, the BHA’s entire 50,000-plus literature collection joined AACA’s holdings moving into the new AACA Library & Research Center building and BHA proudly announced it had hired its own full-time curator/archivist, Spencer Paterick, who now works alongside and under the supervision of AACA Library staff. At this October’s Fall Hershey, BHA will—for the first time ever—offer its surplus duplicates of General Motors and Buick literature for sale during the Yard Sale event.
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The SAH tent last year in its Orange Field vendor spaces (OBB 16-19) but now, with a bit of slight-of-hand called photoshopping, touting the 2023 authors’ event in the sign at lower left. |
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From 2022 SAH authors’ signing (left side of tables from nearest to furthest): First, adventure novelist Jim "JK" Kelly, whose Deadly Driver, now adapted to a screenplay earning attention of film producers here and abroad, soon will have a sequel. Next is Antique Automobile editor West Peterson seated beside Steve Rossi. The duo are signing Rossi’s anthology of columns chosen from the past 15 years writing for AA titled Gearhead at Large. Just beyond Rossi is a stalwart AACA member Bob Riley, author of Field Guide to Aftermarket Parts, with the first one covering 1946-1948 Dodge. The next one will cover tri-five Chevs. Beyond Riley is Dave Hermanson, whose book The Mobilgas Economy Run is the definitive history of that fuel efficiency competition, 1936 to 1968. At the far end is Kit Foster, author of the seminal work on The Stanley Steamer. |
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Authors shown will be returning this October and joined by many more—some 20+ all together—at least two of whom have NEVER been to a Fall Hershey before. This is your opportunity to show them all just what Fall Hershey enthusiasm is all about. The lawn/parking lot area adjacent to the AACA Headquarters building is the place to be on the afternoon of Tuesday, October 3, 2023. Library and BHA tents will open at 4 p.m. SAH’s authors will be in place to welcome you as you line up beforehand. All three tents close at 7 p.m. |
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More Details About the Yard Sale
Volunteers Still Needed!
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The library’s Yard Sale is only a month or so away, and we’re planning a bigger and better event than ever before! Mark your calendars for Tuesday, October 3, from 4-7 p.m. on the back lawn of the AACA National Headquarters building at 800 W. Hersheypark Drive in Hershey, PA. This year you’ll be able to attend an exciting 3-in-1 experience because the library’s literature sale is only part of the fun. Joining us that evening will be the Society of Automotive Historians’ (SAH) annual author event and book signing, as well as the Buick Heritage Alliance with their own literature sale.
Plan to scour through the usual assortment of automotive literature from pre-war to recent pieces, as well as books, shop manuals, and periodicals…we’ve got a huge selection of material this year, so you’re sure to find something to be excited about. Make sure you check out our new “$5 Fill-A-Bag” area where you can walk away with a decent haul of literature for just $5! Bob’s Bundles will return again, as well as a few special items we’ve been saving up for this event.
A few details to take note of… we plan to have a food truck available in the headquarters parking lot, so bring your appetite as well as your wallet. Also, the line for the Yard Sale will not run through the headquarters building like it did last year…this event is entirely outdoors (rain or shine), so please plan accordingly! There will be at least 4 tents and 3 organizations to visit while you’re here, and we’ll have signs, staff, and volunteers on hand to help direct you through the experience.
Speaking of volunteers – WE STILL NEED SOME! If you’d like to sign up to help out during the Yard Sale or at the library during the week of Fall Hershey, please contact Jen Wolfe or Matt Hocker immediately.
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Special Eastern Spring Nationals Results |
THANK YOU to all of the volunteers, judges, staff, property staff, AACA Board and all of our wonderful members who participated in the show in Hamilton, NY!
And a very special THANK YOU to the Rolling Antiquers
Old Car Club Norwich Region for hosting a great event!
Click the above link to view the winners list.
Thank you to AACA member Tom Gibson from Anderson, SC, for sharing some of the awesome photos he took at the event. Make sure to read the official recap article in the September/October issue of Antique Automobile magazine.
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THANK YOU to all of the volunteers, judges, staff, property staff, AACA Board and all of our wonderful members who participated in the show in Bettendorf, IA!
And a very special THANK YOU to the Mississippi Valley Region
for hosting a great event!
Click above to view winners list.
Thank you to AACA member Connie Mielke from Crystal Spring, PA, for sharing some of the awesome photos she took at the event. Make sure to read the official recap article in the November/December issue of Antique Automobile magazine.
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2023 AACA Zenith Award Winner Crowned:
1935 S.S. 1 Airline wins “Restoration of the Year”
By Steve Rossi, AACA National VP Public Relations & Event Planning, sldmrossi@aol.com
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The AACA has selected a 1935 S.S. 1 Airline as its 2023 Zenith Award winner. The Zenith Award is the ultimate recognition that’s bestowed by AACA for not only outstanding…but critically authentic… automotive restoration.
The 1935 S.S. 1 Airline is owned by Jim and Lisa Hendrix of Chesterfield, Missouri. Just 16 S.S.1 Airline saloons are known to exist of the 624 built by S.S. Cars Limited in Coventry, England. The Airline is a sporting four-seat two-door pillarless design with a sweptback streamlined nature. It features luxurious armchair rear seating as directed by company owner Sir William Lyons to mimic his comfortable office chair. In its August 23, 1935, issue, The Autocar asserted that the car “... was from the first, and remains, an individual kind of car by reason of the low build, impressive length of bonnet and the sweeping lines of the wings and bodywork.”
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This car was specially ordered by its original owner, Charles Randolph Whately of London, with silver paint, light blue interior, and scumble faux wood interior trim, commemorating the “Silver Jubilee” celebration of King George V. Factory literature touted “Flowing lines of the utmost simplicity characterize this interpretation of streamlining. Luxurious comfort is assured in a beautifully appointed and roomy interior from which unrestricted vision is afforded by unusually long rear quarter lights [quarter windows].” Equipped with a 2.7-liter six-cylinder engine, the Airline saloon price was 365 GBP (roughly 1,800 USD). |
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The Hendrix purchased this beauty, partially complete, just south of Gloucester, England, in 1996, becoming just its fourth owner. They then spent 25 years exhaustively researching every detail before becoming heavily involved in its renewal by Mann’s Restoration. It has been documented by the Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust, and retains its original engine, chassis, commission tag, molded tool tray, RAG carburetors with consecutive serial numbers.
This unparalleled AACA Award recognizes the very best automobile restoration for its overall quality, authenticity and rarity. The mere 19 automobiles that competed for this year’s Zenith Award, held in August at the 2023 AACA Grand Nationals in Bettendorf, Iowa, were selected from each of the AACA National shows in 2022. Only one vehicle can be crowned “Restoration of the Year,” and this stunningly restored 1935 S.S. 1 Airline clearly earned the honor.
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Congratulations also goes to the runner-up, a 1929 Ford Model A Town Car owned by Stanley and Mary Sorrels from LaPorte, Indiana.
Click here to view the AACA Zenith Award program listing all of the cars in the competition. Congratulations to everyone who was nominated! Thank you to the Zenith judges and to the Mississippi Valley Region for hosting the event.
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Please scroll all the way to the end of Speedster to find the answer. |
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When and where did the tradition of spraying champagne in a car race Winners Circle begin? |
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IMPORTANT!!! 2024 AACA National Board of Directors Election |
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In the September/October edition of Antique Automobile is a postpaid ballot for the 2024 Board of Directors election. It is your ONLY ballot and must be filled out according to the instructions or it will not be counted.
Please read the biographies of all the candidates listed in the magazine and vote for the 7 of your choice. Our candidates this year come from widely different backgrounds, so please give serious consideration to those who match your ideas of what is important to the future of the club. All ballots must have 7 names selected or they will be considered "not valid" and will not be counted.
Your ballot must be postmarked by November 15, 2023.
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Update on the Oral History Project |
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According to the original schedule, the printed books were supposed to be mailed out this month, but they are a little behind because of how large the project became – the book has actually expanded to 3 volumes! We just received an update from Publishing Concepts (PCI) this week that everything is currently with the printer, so as soon as they have everything printed, they will begin shipping the books. Unfortunately, we don’t have an exact ship date yet though.
We sincerely appreciate all of your patience throughout this project and while waiting for your printed books to arrive. If you have questions about your order and timing, feel free to contact the PCI Client Experience Team at clientservice@publishingconcepts.com or 1-800-982-1590.
Thank you again to all of our members who participated in this project!
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Valley Forge Region Celebrates Collector Car Appreciation Day
This is a member submitted story.
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The Valley Forge Region AACA decided on two days’ notice to celebrate Collector Car Appreciation Day. One of our members Mike Marchese did a phone and email notice to our members that were not working. We met at Speck's drive-in restaurant in Collegeville, PA, on Friday, July 14, at noon. There were 16 members’ and friends’ cars present for the outing. Despite the 92-degree weather, we all had a good time celebrating this great hobby of ours. |
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Aloha Region Lahaina Fund
This is a member submitted story.
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Shortly after the devastation of Lahaina, the Aloha Region AACA decided to raise funds for the people there. To date, we’ve raised over $5,000. On Saturday, August 26, the Aloha Region met in Bob Bosley’s incredible auto-themed museum, our regular meeting place. Most of the donations were collected during this lunch gathering. Many of the 65 members attending wore their Aloha Region t-shirts proudly. (I’m third from the left – aloha!) We were blessed with the presence of 3 Woody Wagons in pristine condition at the event. |
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We’re holding the funds drive open until September 7. The funds are being held in the Aloha Region’s account with First Hawaiian Bank. FHB has a special division set up that will work with the community to direct contributions to the best local organizations for your cause. We’ll distribute the funds through them so that we can have the biggest impact.
If any of our AACA family, friends and regions/chapters would like to support our cause, we would be grateful for your help. To donate, please make checks payable to the Aloha Region Lahaina Fund and mail them to me:
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Rick Lloyd (Aloha Region AACA President)
666 Prospect St., Apt. 710
Honolulu, HI 96813
If you have any questions,
please feel free to reach out to me…
With such a large AACA family living all over the world, we have many members who have experienced or are currently experiencing tragedy and devastation. We are very proud of the community we have built through our 350 local regions and chapters. Throughout the years, AACA National has found that being a support system for our regions in these situations is the best way we can have the greatest effect. Thank you to all of our members near and far for always being so generous and caring.
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KYANA Region Supports Area First Responders
This is a member submitted story.
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The first week of August is always a busy one in Louisville with the annual return of the NSRA Street Rod Nationals to town. Added to that excitement this year were two KYANA events that showed support for our first responders: LMPD’s (Louisville Metro Police Dept.) National Night Out and the Hot Wheels for Wilt benefit car show.
National Night Out (NNO) takes place annually on the first Tuesday in August. NNO enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community. Furthermore, it provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances. KYANA members Carol and Jerry Bass organized KYANA’s participation in National Night Out at Jefferson Mall on August 1, supporting LMPD’s 6th and 7th Divisions, local fire districts, and emergency medical personnel. KYANA again was well represented at this event with more than 15 vehicles on display, much to the delight of the public and first responders alike.
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On Friday August 4, KYANA members Angela & David Hill and Carol & Willie Wilhoite organized KYANA’s participation in the first Hot Wheels for Wilt car show at St. Matthews Mall. KYANA members registered 23 vehicles for this event, which resulted in a sizable donation to support Officer Wilt in his recovery from injuries received at the Old National Bank shooting.
Officer Wilt was on his fourth day of patrol after just graduating from LMPD’s police academy. He and his training officer, Officer Cory Galloway, were the first LMPD officers to respond to reports of a mass shooting underway at the downtown branch of Old National Bank. As they rolled up to the front of the bank with Officer Wilt at the wheel, their cruiser immediately came under fire. Moving out of the line of fire, they gathered rifles from the cruiser’s trunk and began their approach toward the shooter. Hiding behind the bank lobby’s mirrored glass, both officers immediately sustained fire. Officer Wilt took a round to the head and fell motionless to the ground. Officer Galloway took a round to the chest, saved from serious injury by his bulletproof vest. After assessing his condition and gathering his thoughts, Officer Galloway methodically approached the shooter’s perch and eliminated the threat. Despite his head wound, Officer Wilt was still alive and was quickly rushed to the hospital. After spending months in the ICU, Wilt made miraculous progress and after several weeks in rehab was released to continue rehabbing at home. The heroism of both officers, and especially the grit of the young rookie, has galvanized community support for “Wilt’s Warriors.”
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The car show was a huge success, generating $4,500 in donations. In total, the entire “Wilt Week” of events tallied proceeds and donations of $170,000 for the Wilt family. There was only one award presented at the Wilt car show, People’s Choice. The award, an engraved bourbon barrel head, was won by KYANA member Mark Kubancik’s 1955 DeSoto.
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Free AACA Membership Opportunity
Put Your Passion in the Driver's Seat
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We are excited to announce a new partnership with Element3 Health to offer a way to renew your AACA dues for free, just by following your passion for cars! During the pandemic, health plans realized that staying social and having fun is great for your overall wellness. Element3 Health works with these health plans to keep their members physically, socially and mentally active. What better way to stay active than by pursuing your favorite hobby?
Through our partnership with Element3, AACA members who are also members of an eligible health plan and participate in club activities will earn credit toward their AACA dues at no cost and just for doing what you love. These credits will start accumulating towards your 2025 membership dues, so please make sure to pay your 2024 dues.
Click here to go to the members only section of the AACA website, log in with your member number and pin, and look for the Element 3 Health link on the homepage. Click that link to check your eligibility and enroll today. This is a completely FREE program.
(Your member number and pin can be found on your AACA membership card. If you have lost or misplaced your card, feel free to call AACA National Headquarters at 717-534-1910 and we will be happy to help you.)
*NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. PURCHASES DO NOT INCREASE ODDS OF WINNING. Odds depend on number of eligible entries. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED. Open to legal U.S. & D.C. residents, age 65+, who are existing members of the Antique Automobile Club of America. Total prize value: $4,950. Limit 1 entry/person. For rules, click here. Sponsor: Element3 Health, Inc., 1550 Wewatta St., 2nd Fl., Denver, CO 80202. Ends at 11:59pm MT on October 31, 2023.
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2024 AACA Membership Renewals Start Soon
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As most of you know, your AACA membership runs for a calendar year – January 1 through December 31. From about mid-September through the end of the year, AACA Headquarters gets a little crazy with membership renewal phone calls and mail. It's not uncommon for us to receive several hundred renewals in a day. Even though it's our busiest time of the year, making sure we get our 45,000+ members renewed is always our top priority.
Look for your first opportunity to renew your membership for 2024 with your September/October issue of Antique Automobile magazine. A renewal form will be included with this issue of the magazine. Simply fill out the form and send it back to the office with a check or credit card information.
Starting Friday, September 1, you can also use our new and improved online renewal on our website. Renewing online is quick and easy! Just log in with your membership number and pin number, review the information currently listed on your membership record and make changes if necessary. Review your information one more time and choose your payment type. Payment options include Visa, MasterCard, Discover or PayPal. Your payment will automatically record to your membership record.
Your membership number and pin number can be found on your membership card. If you don’t know your membership number and/or pin number, you can call AACA National Headquarters at 717-534-1910 or email membership@aaca.org. Please DON’T try to pay your dues by using the JOIN AACA tab. This WILL NOT renew your membership – instead, it will create a new one.
If you're going to be at Hershey, you can also stop by the AACA trailer or tent and renew your membership in person with us.
We look forward to seeing or hearing from all of you very soon!
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Membership Corner: Encourage People to Take Alternate Career Paths
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I started and ran my own collision and restoration shop for more than 30 years and today it is part of The NB Center for American Automotive Heritage, where I am the General Manager and
Curator. We are a self-contained operation, restoring cars in our own shops for our collection. Consequently, I am still very connected to the restoration and maintenance of antique cars.
I must say I am worried by what I see happening today. Many small repair shops and jobbers who do specialized rebuilding, restoring and reproduction of parts to keep our cars running are closing their doors for good. Their biggest problem is a lack of labor and lack of interest by younger people in fixing things.
For decades, parents have been telling their children to go to school and learn a profession because you don’t want to work with your hands like we did. The message has been heard. Generation Z is shaping up to be the highest educated generation ever. They can now work from home on their computers and have great high-paying careers and never get their hands dirty. Unfortunately, this has created a shortage of people to do what we consider to be blue-collar work. The upshot is that mechanics at car dealerships are now in such high demand they can easily earn six-figure incomes. Welders, plumbers and electricians are in such short supply they can literally name their price for their services.
The shortage of hands-on labor is compounded by the throw-it-away culture we have created. Most young people today know nothing about repairing electronics, furniture or even cars. When something wears out or gives them too much trouble, they simply replace it. Replacements for most things are just a click away on the internet.
The old car hobby is threatened by this trend. It is up to us to encourage our children and grandchildren and others to go after their dreams. If that includes working on cars, becoming an artist, or just wanting to do something with their hands, then encourage them to follow that path. There are plenty of great careers awaiting them repairing things, making things and working on things.
These types of careers would be a win-win situation for the younger generation and AACA. The hope would be that more blue-collar workers (especially in car related fields) would translate into more members for AACA so we can help keep this wonderful hobby alive and thriving for years to come.
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The library’s new and improved website is officially up and running! Visit aacalibrary.org and get to know the library, its collection and staff, and all the resources available to you as a member of the car community. Together with our designers, we’ve organized the new website into easy-to-navigate menus so that you can find the information you seek quickly and easily.
Our new homepage gives an overview of the most frequently sought information like library announcements, donations, automotive advertisements, submitting a research request form, and links to the AACA Forums and membership.
In the About Us menu, learn about the history of the organization, the process for donating materials, how to become a volunteer, and view our FAQs. Under Collections, you can access information about the 3,000,000 items held by the library and how each type of material can enhance your research needs – there’s something for everyone! Lastly, Use the Library allows users to perform searches of collections, view the library’s event listings, and see the main research page.
Look for our article in the next issue of Antique Automobile for a more detailed look at the new website and library services, as well as a short tutorial on how to use the catalog. Let us know what you think of our new website…we welcome your feedback!
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Interested in becoming a volunteer with the AACA Library?
Contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Matthew Hocker,
Interested in doing research with the AACA Library?
More information is available on our website.
Visit AACA Library or contact our Reference Librarian, Amoi Goldman,
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Make Your Hotel Reservations Now for the 2024 AACA Annual Convention |
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The 2024 AACA Annual Convention will be held February 8-10 in the Dulles/Washington D.C. area at the Westfields Marriott.
Here is the full hotel and reservation information, so you can book early and start your planning:
Just Named...
Marriott’s Premium Hotel of the Year!
Westfields Marriott Washington Dulles
14750 Conference Center Drive
Chantilly, VA 20151
Less than 10 miles from the Washington Dulles International Airport
Room Rate: $129 per night OR $169 per night includes breakfast for two people
Reservation Phone: (800) 266-9432 (mention Antique Automobile Club of America)
Reservation Deadline: January 16, 2024
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2024 AACA Annual Convention Call for Speakers Extended
February 8-10 – Chantilly/Dulles, Virginia
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Have you ever thought about speaking or putting on a seminar at the Annual Convention? Well, now's your chance! If you would like to be a possible speaker, please fill out this form and send it in no later than October 15.
Have an idea for a workshop? What topics would you like to hear a panel of experts discuss? This is YOUR Annual Convention, and we want to know what you want to learn about. Please email Stacy with your seminar ideas and/or speaker suggestions (membership, leadership, chapters/regions, marketing, cars, technical, fun, historical, ladies-focused, etc.).
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Youth Development Corner: How to Engage Youth on Their Level
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I can't express what the AACA means to me and how much it's contributed to my upbringing since joining as a high school sophomore in 2012 after the acquisition of my first antique car. Now a young adult, I'm on my 8th antique car (and daily drive one, too), and my 9-5 is spent on a race team; so you could say the AACA has had a profound impact on my life! For this reason, I was ecstatic to present my thoughts on how to engage today's youth using antique vehicles.
As someone who's automotive enthusiast co-workers are mostly in the 20–30-year-old range, I can certainly say the common adage that "today's youth aren't interested in cars" is blatantly untrue. It is however true that most of the younger enthusiasts are not as interested in antique cars when compared with newer models, but the good news is that this can largely be attributed to a few variables that all AACA members can act on to trend youth involvement numbers upward!
Societal changes have resulted in shorter attention spans that unfortunately cause a declining interest in traditional car shows regardless of whether the person is 5 or 25. This is why shorter format events like Cars and Coffee draw a younger crowd. Another byproduct of short attention spans is increased youth interest in non-static automotive activities (racing, auto cross and driving tours) that are competing for the same scarce hobby dollars. Accordingly, I'd recommend that local chapters start regularly attending Cars and Coffee events and ideally take it a step further; consider starting a short fun run to a publicly visible destination following the morning meetup. Don’t forget to always work in an explanation of AACA member benefits whenever showcasing your car to a new acquaintance.
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Lastly, the biggest reason for lack of youth interest in the AACA is due to the negativity and lack of inclusiveness that the seemingly most vocal members tend to express. Even if you dislike or disagree with the eligibility of a participating car, your refraining from a negative comment (or better yet making a positive one) will only reinforce the participant's choice to participate in (and hopefully join) the AACA. The same thought process applies to younger attendees in a simpler form as well. For example, if you see a kid interacting with your car in a way you don't approve of, make sure you don't chastise them in a dramatic way as kids have an innate ability to remember extremely negative or positive interactions long term. Instead, sear a positive antique automotive memory onto their psyche by introducing them to the judging process, letting them sit and turn switches (where permissible) in the car or better yet take them for a ride they're guaranteed to remember. |
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AACA Offers Six Scholarships
Application Deadline: December 1
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Susquehannock Region Automotive Technology Scholarship (formerly known as the AACA Student Scholarship): Cash award to a student currently enrolled in an institution of higher learning leading up to a degree in antique automotive technology and or restoration.
AACA Young People’s Award: A cash award to an AACA member (student or regular) who has been accepted into an accredited institution of higher learning or is now enrolled in such institution, i.e., a four-year college leading to a bachelor’s degree or a two-year vocational education program leading to a degree. Applicant must be nominated by a Region or Chapter of AACA and must be no more than 25 years old.
AACA Scholarship: A cash award to any AACA member (student or regular) who has been accepted to an accredited institution of higher learning or is now enrolled in such institution, i.e., a four-year college leading to a bachelor’s degree or a two-year vocational education program leading to a diploma. Applicant must be no more than 25 years old.
Louise Bianchi Chiotti Memorial Scholarship Award: Louise (Bianchi) Chiotti was born on June 11, 1914, in San Jose, California. The family’s first automobile was a 1926 Dodge Sedan. Her two younger brothers purchased a 1939 Studebaker and took delivery in January 1939. They wanted to give it to Louise’s son Dave in 1956. His mother thought it too big of a car for a fifteen-year-old in San Francisco and talked him into buying a 1930 Ford Model A Coupe. In 1959 the little Model A was a bit slow, so Dave purchased a 1959 Ford convertible. As Dave sat on the running board of the Ford waiting for the new owner to arrive his mom came and sat next to him. “You really don’t want to sell it do you?” she asked. “NO, I don’t” was my reply.” “Then don’t,” mom said. Dave and Marilyn Chiotti still own the Model A; it is a Senior and First Place Grand National Award Winner. The 1939 Studebaker came to the Chiottis after spending 40 years under a walnut tree. It is now a Senior and First Place Grand National Award Winner. The 1926 Dodge was cut into a truck for ranch use in the 1940s. Dave brought it home in 1976 and built a Woodie. In 2000, they donated it to Luther Burbank Home & Gardens in Santa Rosa. After Dave and Marilyn’s uncle’s passing, they acquired their 1968 Cadillac El Dorado. It now lives in the AACA Museum in Hershey, PA. This $1,500 scholarship is based upon the same rules as the AACA Automotive Technology Award and is awarded as funds are available. It was instituted and funded by Dave and Marilyn Chiotti as a way to honor Louise and a way to continue to support youth in the hobby.
AACA John & Janet Ricketts Leadership Scholarship: A cash award to any AACA member, child or grandchild of an active AACA member in good standing for a least 5 years, who has been accepted to an institute of higher learning or is now enrolled in such institution. The award is granted by the family of John and Janet Ricketts in recognition of their love of AACA and their belief in service to the club. It is also in recognition of our first female National President Janet Ricketts in 1999.
Hershey Region AACA Automotive Restoration Scholarship: Cash award to an AACA member currently enrolled in an institution of higher learning leading up to a degree in antique automotive restoration.
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Have You Checked Out MemberDeals Yet? |
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MemberDeals is a brand-new member benefit program with exclusive offers to the world’s greatest entertainment and travel brands. While working with the top suppliers and partners in the industry nationwide, MemberDeals develops attractive offers that you, as an AACA member, now get to take advantage of.
What kind of offers are we talking about? How about offers for Walt Disney World® Resort, Universal Orlando Resort™, Cirque du Soleil® and SeaWorld® Parks and Entertainment. There are deals on hotels, rental cars, flights, movie tickets, concerts and sports events. Don’t forget about Broadway musicals, cell phones, computers, appliances, automotive, flowers, food, subscriptions… the list goes on and on.
This new benefit program is completely FREE for all current AACA members to utilize. To check out all of the great deals available right now, all you need is your AACA member number and pin. Click here to go to the members only section of the AACA website, log in with your member number and pin, and look for the Travel & Entertainment link on the homepage.
(Your member number and pin can be found on your AACA membership card. If you have lost or misplaced your card, feel free to call AACA National Headquarters at 717-534-1910 and we will be happy to help you.)
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Official 2024 AACA Calendar Now Available |
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The AACA Calendar is always a hot item this time of year, so be sure to order yours before they are gone! This 13-month calendar runs from January 2024 to January 2025 and highlights AACA National Activities in addition to moon phases, all Federal Holidays and many other observances. The best part of the annual calendar is getting to see the fabulous member cars showcased each time you flip the month. At a cost of only $13 postpaid, these calendars also make great, inexpensive gifts for all of the car-lovers in your life!
To order, please call AACA Headquarters at 717-534-1910 or go online to the AACA Store. An order form will also be included with your next issue of Antique Automobile magazine.
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It's Never Too Early to Order Your Holiday Cards |
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AACA Christmas and holiday cards are an annual tradition for many members. These beautiful 5x7 cards feature artwork from renowned artist Ken Eberts, whose paintings have graced Antique Automobile magazine covers. This year, we have two new designs... |
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“Christmas 1910”
1910 Oldsmobile Limited
Inside: Season’s Greetings
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“Christmas 1949”
1949 Ford Custom Fordor
Inside: Merry Christmas & Happy New Year
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The cards come in packs of 12 and include envelopes. Each pack is only $12 (plus shipping). An order form was included with your July/August issue of Antique Automobile magazine. You can also purchase them in the AACA store on our website or call AACA Headquarters to place your order (717-534-1910). |
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Are You Heading Out on Any of the National Tours This Year?
Driving Your Car to Any Local Shows?
Then the Mileage Award Program is For You!
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If you enjoy driving your antique vehicle, start your engine and get recognized for driving your AACA-approved vehicles throughout the calendar year with the Mileage Award Program (MAP).
Participation is voluntary and tracking mileage is your responsibility. Any time a vehicle is driven – anywhere for any reason – the mileage counts towards the award levels. Once you sign up, you will receive a badge and awards at 2,000, 5,000 and each 5,000-mile increment thereafter. The cost to become a MAP member is a one-time fee of $25.
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Schedule a Tour of AACA National Headquarters & Library Research Center |
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Would your AACA region or chapter like to visit?
What about any of the other car clubs you belong to?
If you are planning a tour or day excursion for a group near the Hershey area, why not include a stop at our building as part of your itinerary? We even have a back patio with picnic tables where your group can host lunch.
If you would like to book a tour, please reach out to Amoi Goldman, AACA Reference Librarian & Outreach Coordinator, at 717-534-2082 or agoldman@aaca.org.
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Do You Know a Military Veteran Who Would Like to be an AACA Member? |
The Military Sponsorship Program is available to all of the Military Veterans that have proudly served to protect our homeland and freedoms. With this program, AACA is extending a limited number of complimentary 2024 memberships for first-time AACA applicants. More information on this program and an application can be found on the AACA website under Membership and drop down to Military Discount, or simply click here.
These complimentary 2024 memberships are for first-time AACA applicants and are limited by the funds available for this program. These complimentary applications for membership are intended for individuals who have a genuine interest in the antique car hobby.
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AACA hosts online forums! AACA hosts a massive online forum area on our website that you can read and/or join in on the conversations on all sorts of topics. People post some really interesting material and pictures on an everyday basis. If you haven't used the forums before, just use the sign-up button in the upper right corner to create your user account. Anyone can join the online forums and it's completely free.
AACA has Facebook! AACA has an official Facebook page for club information and events. We also have an extremely active Facebook group, where group members post, ask questions and discuss everything and anything car-related. LIKE our Facebook page and ask to JOIN our Facebook group. Don't forget to connect with the AACA Library on their official Facebook page as well.
Be sure to use these hashtags: #DrivingHistory, #AACA, #AntiqueAutomobileClubofAmerica, #Hershey, #AACAHershey, #AACAproud, #AACAstrong
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AACA National Activities Calendar |
September 14-16, 2023
Special Central Divisional Tour
Piqua, OH
September 25-29, 2023
Western Divisional Tour
California Central Coast
October 3-6, 2023
Eastern Fall Nationals
Hershey, PA
October 22-27, 2023
Revival AAA Glidden Tour (VMCCA)
Thomasville, GA
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Upcoming Events
Visit the calendar on our website for a complete listing of AACA National events, local Region & Chapter events and much more!
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Dan Gurney invented champagne spraying on the victory podium at Le Mans in 1967. He placed his thumb over the open bottle, shook and intentionally sprayed the onlookers, thus beginning a tradition that has transcended all sports. In his words, “What I did with the champagne was totally spontaneous. I had no idea it would start a tradition. I was beyond caring and just got caught up in the moment. It was one of those once-in-a-lifetime occasions where things turned out perfectly...I thought this hard-fought victory needed something special.”
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Antique Automobile Club of America | AACA.org | 717-534-1910
America’s Premiere Resource for the Collectible Vehicle Community
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The Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, is the country's premier resource for the collectible vehicle community. Since its formation in 1935, the Club, through its national office, publications, and membership, aids individuals, museums, libraries, historians and collectors dedicated to the enjoyment and preservation of automotive history. |
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