Update on the AACA Oral History Project
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Many thanks to all of the AACA members who decided to take part in the AACA Oral History Project over the past few months. Collecting all the stories and images to produce the recordings and the printed book was a giant undertaking and we are very thankful for our partners on this project, PCI.
In the end, more than 8,000 stories were collected and will become a permanent part of our new oral history center generously underwritten by John and Lynn Heimerl here at AACA National Headquarters. Not only will visitors be able to peruse a copy of the book to read your stories, better yet they will be able to actually listen to you telling your story via your recording. We think that’s pretty exciting!
The total estimated duration for the Oral History Project to be completed is about 12 months. Since we began the project in August 2022, the books should be distributed in August 2023. We are sorry that you will have wait a few more months, but in the end, we think it will be worth it. Judging by the initial pages we have seen, we are sure of it!
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Cadillac Seminar Wrap-up & Future Library Programs
A big thank you to Ed Benson for a very successful Cadillac presentation on March 11. Library staff included a small pop-up book sale after the program with Cadillac books and sales literature, which added another element for attendees and raised almost $200 for the library. With a total of 17 participants the seminar was well attended and enjoyed, with many attendees asking when the next program would be.
Because there is such interest, we will now be offering the AACA community the opportunity to present programs, seminars, workshops, and other educational experiences to the public. Members who wish to be considered to present a program at the library can simply fill out this Program Request Form. Library staff will review the applications and contact presenters to discuss their ideas.
Saturday Hours
The AACA library will be opening on select Saturdays beginning in April to accommodate those unable to visit us during the week. Staff will use this trial period to determine whether these additional hours are needed and used and will adjust as needed in the future. You can see a complete listing of those dates on our website. Please note that the doors to the National Headquarters building are locked on weekends, so signage will be posted with instructions on how to contact the library staff to be let into the facility.
2023 Eastern Divisional Tour
The tour is planned for June 24-28, in the Denver, PA, area, and is sponsored by the AACA Library in memory of former director Chris Ritter. You can find more information about the tour in an article later in this issue of Speedster. Please consider joining us as we embark on our very first National tour hosted by the library. To request the tour brochure and registration form be sent to you, you can either call AACA National Headquarters at 717-534-1910 or email Sue Eitner.
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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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LAST CHANCE! We Need Your Feedback on the 2023 Annual Convention
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The Annual Convention Committee is always looking to improve your experience at convention. For those of you who attended the Annual Convention in Williamsburg this year, we are looking for your feedback to help us continue to develop and elevate this event.
What did you like? What didn't you like? Which seminar was your favorite? What would you like to see at future conventions? The Annual Convention Survey is where you can voice your opinions about the event and know that it will be reviewed by the committee.
Attention All Attendees: Please click here to take a quick 10-minute survey online.
Thank you in advance for taking the time to complete this survey. Your valuable feedback will help us continue to improve this event. The survey will close on April 15, 2023.
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The Great American Road Trip for Veterans
Interview with AACA Member Captain Scott Montefusco,
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Growing up on Long Island, NY, Scott was always interested in American history and had a love for antique cars and trucks. Scott’s service to our nation started when he joined the Marines after college. He served as a Captain and after 13 years transitioned to the FBI, where he served another 24 years. In addition to his serving our country, Scott is passionate about giving back to his community, which is why he started The Great American Road Trip for Veterans organization.
A cross-country driving fundraiser from San Francisco to New York City, covering 52 cities in just 65 days, is in the works headed by former Marine Captain Scott Montefusco and his team. The ride starts from San Francisco on May 23 and concludes in New York City on July 26, 2023. The drive is based on the legendary Col. Horatio Nelson Jackson’s first transcontinental journey that took place on the same dates 120 years ago. He will be driving two special collectible vehicles. One is “Little Glory” the 1952 M38 Korean War Willys Jeep, and the other star of the campaign drive is the 1973 Winnebago RV dubbed “Marine’s Dream.” The campaign aims to give the Willys Jeep away through a sweepstakes or by auction at the conclusion of this drive.
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Scott’s personal car collection includes a 1941 ½-ton Dodge truck; 1942 Chevy G506 WW2 truck; a 1948 Plymouth named “Harry;” a 1949 2-ton Chevy truck; a 1953 Chevy ¾-ton truck; 1943, ‘44, ‘45, ‘50, ‘52, ‘53, ‘62 military and civilian Willys Jeeps; 1964 VW Beetle; 1964 Ranchero; 1973 Winnebago; 1979 Chevy Blazer; 1988 Chevy 1-ton Dually 4x4; 1942 Allis Chalmers B Model; 1945 Case WW2 tug; 1948 Ford 8N; 1947 Muskva Russian motorcycle; and a few 1970s Honda and Yamaha race bikes.
When asked about his impressive collection, Scott's wife affectionately calls it a “parking lot,” but Scott refers to it as his "Motorpool," based on his time in the military as a motor transport officer. He enjoys restoring and collecting these vehicles and considers them to be a part of our country’s legacy. “I love this good old made in the USA steel,” he says proudly as he performs maintenance on “Harry” and the other vehicles.
Scott's desire to inspire young people to serve in our military and as first responders is also a driving force behind his work with Gartforvets.org (Great American Road Trip for Veterans). He wants to teach a younger generation about the history of our military and try to instill respect for our nation's history. Scott is also interested in conducting a podcast to reach out and hear from fellow veterans and first responders, allowing them to share their service stories while conducting this historic drive across the USA supporting the Tunnel to Towers Foundation.
In conclusion, Captain Scott Montefusco is a man of service, adventure, and history. He has dedicated his life to serving our nation and supporting those who have also served. Through his organization, Gartforvets.org, he continues to inspire others to give back and make a difference in their communities. We wish him and his team the best of luck on their cross-country fundraiser drive and look forward to hearing more about his future endeavors.
If you would like to make a tax-deductible gift donation directly to Tunnel to Towers on behalf of the Gartforvets campaign, you may do so here.
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ATTENTION AACA MEMBERS, REGIONS & CHAPTERS:
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Captain Scott is looking for AACA members/regions/chapters, firemen, policemen, and military personnel who might want to drive the vintage Winnebago for a few miles. He is also looking for volunteers to help as they come through your town or area. His team may just need a safe place to park overnight or maybe a little mechanical assistance if something is not quite working right.
Captain Scott is also willing to take part in any local events your region or chapter may already be putting on or would like to host in honor of the trip. He would love to meet and greet with veterans and first responders along the way as well.
If you would like to follow the tour with your own vintage vehicle when they come through your town or be a point of contact should they need anything, Captain Scott would be grateful.
You can view the working route here. Please keep in mind that the route schedule is subject to change on dates based on events that may come up, severe weather, or possible breakdowns.
If you and/or your region/chapter would like to be involved, please contact Captain Scott at 385-261-4083 or thecaptain@gartforvets.org. He’s looking forward to hearing from you!
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Please scroll all the way to the end of Speedster to find the answer.
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With sales plummeting and its market share being eaten by imports, Ford's design direction took a drastic shift after the company realized that its biggest risk would be to avoid taking one in the first place. Or in other words…to risk nothing, is to risk everything. What car ushered in this new way of provocative thinking in Dearborn when it came to styling?
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The 110-Year-Old Noznesky Family Buick
This is a member submitted story.
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This 1913 Buick Model 25 Touring has a unique history of preservation and is a family heirloom. Three generations of the Noznesky family have driven, maintained, stored, and preserved this car during its 109-year life. It has more than 95% of its original factory chassis, drive train, body, and its original motor. The car has never been “restored.”
In 1937, the Buick participated in a 1,000-mile cross-country rally from Pennsylvania through the Smokey Mountains and back. In 1948 and 1949, it participated in the earliest of AACA judged gatherings at the Devon Horse Show. Also in 1948 and 1949, it was in the “Atlantic City Run” from Pennsylvania to the AACA National Convention and exhibited on the famous Atlantic City Boardwalk.
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The Buick being exhibited during the AACA National Convention adjacent to the Convention Center on the boardwalk.
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My Uncle Raymond driving the car on the Atlantic City Boardwalk during the 1948 AACA National Convention.
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In 1956, the car was stored in a Pennsylvania family garage after my uncle Raymond Noznesky died. In 1999, after 43 years of storage, it was moved to my home in Florida, cleaned up, brought to running condition and driven. Its patina was preserved and its top and tires were the only components changed.
In 2013, on its 100th birthday, it was invited to and exhibited at the Amelia Island Concours. That same year it was inducted into the AACA Century Club. It continues to be driven and exhibited at various local and regional events.
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We want to hear from you!!
We are always looking to feature articles from AACA members in Speedster. We'd love to share your personal accounts of tours and shows you have attended, restoration projects, unique vehicle stories and history, and any other stories you think other AACA members would enjoy hearing about.
Stories should average about 500 words or less. And, we love photos, so make sure to include some! Please send your photos and stories to Stacy Zimmerman at szimmerman@aaca.org.
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You’ve Bought It…Now How Do You Get It Home?
This is a member submitted story.
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With all the excitement of your new (old) car purchase, you might have overlooked a few details. One being, “how am I getting the car home?” You definitely have options…just make sure you pick the correct one. If you have your own truck and trailer and are an old pro at this, then stop reading now. Otherwise, as discussed in a previous article, driving it home, unless you live within a relatively short distance, should not be an option. There are way too many unknows with your new purchase.
You can always go down to the local truck rental place and rent a car trailer to get your baby home, which is a great option if you’ve honestly answered these three questions…do you really know how to load a car on a trailer, strap it down properly and then drive said truck and trailer? If you even hesitated for a second, you’ve answered those questions. Another option is your buddy from the neighborhood with a nice truck and trailer. Bribe him with a steak dinner and maybe that gets it home.
How about using a professional shipper? Now there’s a novel idea, hire someone who actually does this kind of thing for a living! There are many options going this route and we will try to address them here. First, and I can’t stress this enough, make sure the person you hire is familiar with old cars. You’d be surprised how many shippers don’t have experience with old cars or even manual transmissions. Make sure you use a reputable transporter to get the car home safely.
There are different options when hiring someone such as, do you want an open or enclosed trailer to bring it home? If it is an enclosed trailer, does it hold 1, 2 or 6 cars? Is it truly a hard sided sealed and enclosed trailer or is it a vinyl soft sided trailer? You would be surprised how much dust and dirt can get into a soft sided trailer even though it’s advertised as enclosed. If you are paying for enclosed, which will be more expensive than an open trailer, get what you pay for…not a close second. An open trailer is a viable option for some situations like a shorter distance to haul with fair weather or a car that’s going to be restored and won’t be any worse for the wear if on an open trailer it got a rock chip or two on it.
Make sure you have insured the car prior to loading, just in case. A car can never be over insured even though the transport company should be bonded and have insurance.
Make sure you get a copy of the preload inspection and pictures if taken. It’s always nice to know the exact condition of the car before it was loaded on a trailer. Remember, just because your car left in an enclosed trailer doesn’t mean it won’t be unloaded to get to another car before it gets to you, or even worse, transferred to another trailer in route to you. As always, ask lots of questions before you commit to anything.
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Membership Corner:
What Have YOU Done to Help Promote AACA Membership?
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Having been a member of the National Board of Directors for some time now, I wish I had a nickel for every minute that we have discussed membership over the years…I would be a millionaire twice over!
Every region asks what National can do to help them gain more membership and attract younger people. We have a fantastic magazine and one of the most spectacular library/headquarters building around. We hold sensational tours and well-organized shows, but with all our efforts our membership is falling. Instead of asking what National can do for your membership, let’s take a look at what you can do for your membership.
What made you join the Antique Automobile Club of America? What have you done to entice the younger people of your community to join? Have you made an environment of don’t touch or one of look, sit, ride, and most of all enjoy? What’s more important, a suit and tie banquet or picnic in the park where you can play car games and laugh? Do you explain how your vehicle operates, what makes it unique, and show the pride you take in making it run down the road? Is it a meeting of finding out who has a new hip and what Medicare paid, or one of what part I found and where or what your last flea market or antique shop find was? Do you pair up those “oldsters” with a younger person so they can learn from each other (i.e., engine repair tips vs. computer skills)? Are your meetings interesting and pose a real reason that someone who is short on time and effort should attend? Do you provide helpful hints to new members or put obstacles in the way of their participation? Meetings at 4 p.m. on a Tuesday don’t work for those who are still gainfully employed. Yes, I still enjoy a ride in the countryside on a sunny day, but I’m retired and with the pressures on today’s society that’s not very conducive to the fast-paced social calendar of most.
AACA considers antique automobiles to be 25 years or older – that’s 1998 this year! Believe it or not, I have clothes in my closet older than that! Embrace the upgrades that have happened in the vehicle world and make sure new members realize that it took your older vehicle to start that age of progress.
Bottom line, National can’t do ALL the leg work for you. All National Directors and headquarters’ personnel are there and willing to help in any way possible, but it’s ultimately up to you to promote and make your region and this club the best it can be.
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Is Your 2023 AACA Membership PAST DUE?
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Your AACA membership runs on a calendar year
from January 1 through December 31.
If you have already renewed your membership for 2023, thank you!!
If you have not renewed your membership yet, please take a few minutes to do it now.
REMINDER: Your 2023 membership dues MUST be paid before you can receive registration information for any 2023 National Shows or Tours. Your 2023 membership dues MUST be paid to continue receiving your beloved Antique Automobile magazine.
OOPS! Did you Forget? In case you did forget, we recently mailed you a brightly colored postcard as a reminder. Simply fill out the postcard and send it back to the office with a check or credit card information. You can also renew your membership by calling National Headquarters at 717-534-1910 (between 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. EDT) with a Visa, MasterCard, or Discover credit card.
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AACA is Looking for a Few Good Men and Women
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Serving on AACA’s Board of Directors is a high calling and a great honor; however, it is not for everybody. If you feel that you can serve the membership and possess the following qualifications, we need to talk to you.
First, you must have a genuine love of the antique automobile hobby. You must have the ability to serve at the national level. This requires you to devote the time, energy, and personal resources necessary to participate in meetings, nationals, tours, and regional activities.
You must be able to function in a team atmosphere by being a team player and/or team leader. You must be able to support your fellow board members and maintain strict confidentiality as required.
Directors need to have the respect of their fellow club members, gained as a proven and successful leader. Experience in chairing or working with AACA committees is important, and background in chairmanship of national level activities is valuable. A track record of active involvement in the hobby, and recognition as a selfless and hard worker for the fun and enjoyment of others is critical.
The best directors are those who rise into the highest offices of AACA and those who work hard so others may enjoy their hobby. To them, knowing that AACA has been successful is more important than their own individual recognition. Still, one of the intangible benefits of leading AACA is the respect and recognition you will receive from the members. It is their thanks for your friendship, your concern for the hobby and their enjoyment of the club, and your wholehearted devotion to AACA.
If you feel that you qualify for consideration by the AACA Board of Directors, please contact Jim Elliott, Chairman Nominating Committee, at 757-880-3343 or aacajim@cox.net.
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ATTENTION: All AACA Judges
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By now you should have received your first 2023 issue of The Judge newsletter in your mailbox. If you did not, click here for a digital copy. The issue includes registration forms for the following shows:
-- 2023 Southeastern Spring Nationals – Charlotte, NC (Deadline passed - contact Chief Judge)
-- 2023 Eastern Spring Nationals – Gettysburg, PA
-- 2023 Central Spring Nationals – Auburn, IN
-- 2023 Special Eastern Spring Nationals – Hamilton, NY
There are also articles from AACA’s VP of Judging, several of your chief judges for these shows, a list of the approved changes to the Judging Guidelines for 2023 and the 2022 Judging Awards recognition list.
Not a current judge, but interested in becoming one? Just attend one of the Judging Schools at any of the Nationals to get started.
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The Importance of Fire Extinguishers
This is a member submitted story.
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How valuable is your collector car to you? Some of you might be aware of the fact that I had an engine fire recently in my 1957 Pontiac. Would you consider investing a few bucks and just a little bit of your time on learning about and having available a proper fire extinguisher in each of your cars? Well, if so, read on.
There are five classes of fires and different classifications of extinguishers for each. They are: Class A: solid materials; Class B: liquids or gas, including gasoline; Class C: electrical failure from equipment and wiring; Class D: metallic substances, such as magnesium; and Class K: grease or oil fires specifically from cooking.
Most car owners choose an ABC fire extinguisher, which contains a dry chemical. They work by the powder forming a crust, which smothers the fire. There are some disadvantages with this type, as the powder does not have a cooling effect. This may result in the fire re-igniting. I think this is why my engine fire re-ignited. Also, the powder coats whatever it contacts, which is usually most of the car, and can cause damage to the finish. If you have salvaged the car, the powder residue should be cleaned off as soon as possible.
The types of extinguishers available are: Foam for A & B fires; Dry Powder for A, B & C fires; Water Mist or Spray for A, B, C & K fires; CO2 (pressurized carbon dioxide) for class B & C fires; and Wet Chemical for A & K fires. Please realize that CO2, which is “dry ice,” may cause your hand to freeze to the nozzle control. Please do some research to be certain the extinguisher you choose will do the required job.
All cars that are on an AACA show field must have an approved UL fire extinguisher on display, and for good reason speaking from experience. A car will be disqualified for judging without one. I cannot emphasize enough the importance of having an approved fire extinguisher in your car and knowing how to use it!
Important Note: Always keep the extinguisher inside the vehicle… not in the trunk! In case of a gas tank fire, or the trunk is inoperable due to collision damage, modern electronics, or a misplaced key, you may not be able to retrieve it from the trunk.
So now, ask yourself again… How valuable is your collector car to you? Or the building it is parked in?
Editor’s Note: We thank Mr. Towner for this information and his views. AACA is trying to get even more information from nationally recognized fire experts and will share those findings in the future. This is important as new firefighting concepts have recently been put on the market. One other tip we strongly urge you to follow is to make sure that your extinguisher has not been discharged.
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Secret City Oak Ridge Tour
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April 30-May 3, 2023
Southeastern Divisional Tour
Oak Ridge, TN
Registration Deadline: April 14
The 2023 Southeastern Divisional Tour will explore the rich history of a “secret” city that was constructed as a part of the Manhattan Project. There, scientist Robert Oppenheimer led the effort to produce enough enriched uranium to build the first atomic bomb. The work was performed under the strictest security in the area now known as Oak Ridge, Tennessee.
We will visit landmarks that define “The Secret City,” hear from historians who have extensive knowledge of the area and enjoy the natural beauty of the East Tennessee countryside.
Tour highlights include: Museum of Science and Energy, Oak Ridge History Center, Museum of Appalachia, Norris History Center, Norris Dam, Oak Ridge K-25 History Center, Great Smoky Mountain Heritage Center, Historic Jackson Square, and Historic Brushy Mountain State Prison.
The East Tennessee Region is looking forward to hosting AACA members from across the country as we explore East Tennessee and discover the secrets of The Secret City!
Tour is limited to 100 vehicles 25 years and older.
Host Hotel:
Doubletree by Hilton, 215 South Illinois Avenue, Oak Ridge, TN 37830, 865-481-2468
Host Campground:
Melton Hill Dam Campground, 201 Campground Road, Lenoir City, TN 37771, 865-361-0436
Questions?
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Join Us in Historic Gettysburg for the Eastern Spring Nationals
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May 17-20, 2023
Eastern Spring Nationals
Gettysburg, PA
Registration Deadline: May 1
Join the Gettysburg Region as they kick off their 70th anniversary celebration by hosting the Eastern Spring Nationals. This is a big year for the region and what better way to show their AACA spirit than to host all of you for a national show in their historic hometown.
The event schedule includes a: flea market, car corral, tours of Bill Wessels Cadillac Collection and the World War II American Experience Museum, cruise-in, membership roundtable, Judging School, BBQ with entertainment, Judges Breakfast, Judges CJE, Owners Briefing, the car show of course, closing banquet and awards presentation.
Host Hotel:
Wyndham Gettysburg, 95 Presidential Circle, Gettysburg, PA 17325, 717-339-0020 (press 3)
Ask for rooms in the AACA Eastern Spring National Block, Reservation Code: 051623AAC
$144.00/night plus taxes
Questions?
Co-Chairman: Karl Krouch, 717-576-7241
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AACA Library Hosts Its Very First National Tour
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June 24-28, 2023
Eastern Divisional Tour
Denver, PA
Registration Opens: April 24
Registration Deadline: May 24
The 2023 Eastern Divisional Tour will explore Denver, PA, and the surrounding areas, and is being held in memory of former AACA Library Director Chris Ritter. The AACA Library is looking forward to hosting AACA members from across the country on our very first National tour!
Tour highlights include: Boyertown Museum of Historical Vehicles, Eastwood Productions, Pottstown Carousel, Yuengling Brewery, Pioneer Coal Mine, National Watch and Clock Museum, Covered Bridge Tour, Highland Presbyterian Church Organ Concert, and AACA National Headquarters.
Tour is limited to 100 vehicles 25 years and older.
Host Hotel:
Comfort Inn, 1 Denver Rd, Denver, PA 17517, 717-336-7541, Group Code: AACA Library Tour
Host Campground:
Questions?
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Book Your Hotel Now for the Founders Tour
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July 16-22, 2023
Founders Tour
London, Ontario, Canada
Our AACA London to Brighton hub tour will be at the Four Points by Sheraton London, 1150 Wellington Road South, London, ON N6E 1M3, and will be combined with the American AACA Founders tour, so please take this opportunity to book your hotel room early.
We have secured rooms with king beds or 2 queen beds for $149 per night including hot breakfast, indoor swimming pool, restaurants onsite and within walking distance. We have also secured a limited number of accessible rooms, so please book early.
Our tour dates will be Sunday, July 16 to Friday, July 21 with departure on Saturday, July 22, 2023. You will need to enter in your exact dates for your room reservations and select the correct number of guests. Upon making your reservation, you may elect to arrive a day early or stay a day later at the same $149 per night price.
You are also welcome to call the hotel directly at 1-519-681-0600.
If you collect Marriott Bonvoy points, please have your number ready upon booking.
Questions?
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Join Us for the Ultimate California Road Trip!
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It's the first WESTERN DIVISIONAL TOUR since 2011 and it's going to be EPIC!
If you’re dreaming of the ultimate California road trip, look no further than the 2023 Western Divisional Tour! September 25-29 is the perfect time to visit us!
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 very easy. You can pay by credit card or by check.
Registration fees include three full buffet breakfasts, three unique and memorable dinners, including our Finale Gala, as well as some tours, and visits to interesting locations.
TOUR DAY 1 is Your Day! Choose from a variety of self-guided tours with fun stops along the way. Treasure-hunt the Antiquing Trail, explore the Santa Maria Museum of Flight, discover Los Alamos, enjoy a Victorian Tea, horseback ride, or hot air balloon trip!
TOUR DAY 2: We wind our way thru the Santa Ynez Valley’s “Sideways” wine trail with stops, sips, lunch, and shopping along with 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: Find 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.
But there’s so much more to see and do!
Find out everything in store for you on this
fabulous tour and sign-up online today!
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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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Check Out These Upcoming AACA National Activities...
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Order Your Official AACA Car Sign Now for the 2023 Car Show Season
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This is the only approved AACA car show sign and is intended for use at AACA events. These signs are only available to AACA members and are custom created to tell your vehicle's story and history.
Please allow 4 weeks for the production of your sign from start to finish. Signs are 16.5" tall and 12" wide and are made of hard plastic to withstand the elements. The signs cost $45 plus shipping, and an image can be added to your sign for an additional $5.
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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How Long Have You Been an AACA Member?
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As a thank you for your longtime passion and dedication for the automotive hobby, AACA awards members who have been in the club for 50 years or more with a beautiful 50-year pin. This stunning award can be bestowed upon a long-time member at an AACA Nationals or regional event, or simply by sending it to you in the mail.
To receive this pin, you must be a member for at least 50 years, which do not have to be consecutive. You (or your region/chapter) must then contact National Headquarters. We will research our archives to confirm 50 years of membership.
If you believe you have been a member for 50 years or more, contact Jon Curtis at 717-534-1910 or jcurtis@aaca.org. AACA is proud of the many members who have already received this pin and who wear it equally as proudly.
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Grab Your AACA Merch Now and Be Ready for the 2023 Car Season
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We've got shirts, hats, sweatshirts, polos, jackets, fleeces, etc. We have license plate frames, trailer hitches and window decals. We even have shirts for the kids and grandkids! And don't forget the light-up USB car chargers and drink koozies that look like stacks of tires.
We've got a great variety of AACA-branded items, so you are sure to find something you will love!
Can't find something in the online store? You can always call AACA Headquarters to place your order as well (717-534-1910, M-F 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. EST).
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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?
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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 2023 memberships for first-time AACA applicants. More information on this program and an application can be found on the AACA website under Join/Renew and drop down to Military Discount, or simply click here.
These complimentary 2023 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
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April 13-15, 2023
Southeastern Spring Nationals
Charlotte, NC
April 30 - May 3, 2023
Southeastern Divisional Tour
Oak Ridge, TN
May 17-20, 2023
Eastern Spring Nationals
Gettysburg, PA
June 24-28, 2023
Eastern Divisional Tour
Denver, PA
July 6-8, 2023
Central Spring Nationals
Auburn, IN
July 16-22, 2023
Founders Tour
Ontario, Canada
July 26-29, 2023
Special Eastern Spring Nationals
Hamilton, NY
August 10-12, 2023
Grand Nationals
Bettendorf, IA
August 16-19, 2023
Vintage Tour
Aroostook County, Maine
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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Would you like registration information and materials about any of these 2023 National Activities? You can:
1. Fill out the activity request card that came with the last issue of Antique Automobile magazine and mail it to us.
2. Sign into the members only area of the AACA website to print your own registration form and brochure. You will need your member number and your pin. If you don’t remember your member number and your pin, give AACA Headquarters a call, and we can provide you with that information.
3. Call us at AACA Headquarters and we will fill out a request for you and mail you the materials.
Call 717-534-1910 Mon.-Fri. from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time.
REMINDER:
Your 2023 membership dues MUST be paid prior to registering for any 2023 National Activities.
If you request registration materials for a show or tour and those materials are not finalized and printed yet, you will be put on the mailing list to receive them as soon as they are available.
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The 1983 Thunderbird was the first Ford to assume an aerodynamic, German-inspired image with robust, solid style. It would be followed by the Tempo/Topaz, Taurus/Sable and Aerostar minivan. Through 1988, some 885,000 such personal sport coupes would be produced. Car and Driver magazine called it, “Detroit’s design triumph of the year,” and the Thunderbird’s roadworthiness and powertrain was reimagined as well to harmonize with its suggestive new look.
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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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