November 2023 | Volume 179

AACA National Staff


CEO

Steve Moskowitz

 

Membership & Merchandise

Karen White

 

Accounting, IT & Website

Pat Buckley

 

Advertising & Marketing

Speedster Editor

Stacy Zimmerman


Antique Automobile Magazine Editor

West Peterson


Office Administration

Lori Shetter - membership/merchandise

Susan Eitnier - regions & chapters, insurance

Jon Curtis - awards


AACA Library Staff


Director

Jen Wolfe


Cataloger & Volunteer Coordinator

Matthew Hocker


Reference Librarian

& Outreach Coordinator

Amoi Goldman

QUICK LINKS:

AACA Website

AACA Library

AACA Forums

AACA Merchandise

AACA Judging Guidelines

AACA National
Headquarters address:
800 W. Hersheypark Dr.
Hershey, PA 17033
Join Our Email List

What’s the 411 on Annual Convention?

By Stacy Zimmerman, Speedster Editor, [email protected]

Believe it or not, the 2024 AACA Annual Convention is just a little more than two months away. Between the full-page color advertisements we’ve been running in the last three issues of Antique Automobile magazine and the small articles here and there in Speedster, you should all know by now that the 2024 convention will be held at the Westfields Marriott Washington Dulles in Chantilly, VA, from February 8-10. The convention committee has been working silently behind the scenes to get all of the contracts signed, event schedule figured out, meals chosen, entertainment booked, and all of the other details in place to pull off what we think is going to be one of the BEST conventions we’ve ever put on. We want to make sure that everyone who wants to attend the convention has the chance to, so here’s some super important information you need to know…


HOTEL: The hotel started taking reservations for our event in June and many members who know how great our convention is jumped at the idea of making their reservations early – almost half the room nights in our block have been booked already! So, if you are thinking that you might want to go to this convention, please book your room as soon as you can. Here is the reservation link or check below for more detailed hotel information.


PRE-CONVENTION EXCURSION: On Thursday, February 8th, we have planned a special lunch and guided highlight tours at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center (the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum’s annex). Transportation to and from the museum will be included as well. I’ve had a chance to visit the museum twice and can tell you from first-hand experience that this activity will be amazing! You will not want to miss this!! Because of some space restrictions, we have to limit this event to 200 guests. If you definitely want to go on this excursion (and you definitely do!), I implore you to register for convention as early as you can.


CASINO NIGHT: On Friday night after the dinner hosted by our Regions and Chapters, we always try to plan something fun and entertaining for all attendees. In the past, we’ve had auctions, fireside chats with famous guests, the AACA Library’s beloved pinewood derby and last year we had a comedic magician. This year, we are taking it up a notch… Vegas-style! Everyone will be able to join us for this activity, but beware… only 300 people will be able to sign up to be players at the casino. The 300 players will be able to gamble the night away with their “funny money” and even bid on prizes at the end of the evening. This event is FREE, but you need to register to play. Again, just one more reason to sign up early for convention!


Finally, we are pleased to announce that convention registration will open NEXT WEEK. Keep your eyes open for a special convention email to pop up in your inbox sometime next week with more information. In the meantime, click here to take a look at our brand-new convention brochure. We are so excited to be able to put on such a wonderful event for our members! We truly hope that all of you will consider joining us in February in Virginia. 

Make Your Hotel Reservations Now

for the 2024 AACA Annual Convention

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 Rates: $129 per night; $149 per night includes breakfast for one person; $169 per night includes breakfast for two people

Reservation Link: https://book.passkey.com/e/50584547

Reservation Phone: (800) 266-9432 (mention Antique Automobile Club of America)

Reservation Deadline: January 16, 2024

Do You Know Anyone Deserving of an AACA Scholarship?

LAST CHANCE! Application Deadline Extended One Week to December 8


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.

Only One Month Left to Renew Your AACA Membership!

By Karen White, AACA Membership Department, [email protected]

As most of you know, your AACA membership runs for a calendar year – January 1 through December 31. If you have already renewed your membership for 2024, thank you!!


If you haven't already renewed your membership for 2024, you only have one month left to do so. A renewal form was included with your November/December issue of Antique Automobile magazine. Simply fill out the form and send it back to the office with a check or credit card information.


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, 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, and you will receive an email confirmation.


Your membership number and PIN can be found on your membership card. You can also call National Headquarters at 717-534-1910 or email [email protected] to get your numbers. 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.


REMINDER: Your 2024 membership dues MUST be paid before you can receive registration information for any 2024 National Shows or Tours, including the Annual Convention.

Membership Corner: A Gift of Membership

By Paula Lynn Ruby, AACA National VP Membership, [email protected]

As the end of 2023 quickly approaches and the outdoor car show season is coming to a conclusion for another year, we now move our thinking to colder months spent indoors and the upcoming holidays.

 

As you work on your holiday gift list for family and friends, let’s not forget about the gift of membership to AACA. Think outside of the box and remove the stress of picking the perfect shirt in the correct size and color or simply settling for another hat or tie. Instead, choose the lasting gift of an AACA membership. You can purchase this gift from the comfort of your lounge chair and without having to go outside in the cold or to a crazy busy mall. It is as simple as going to our website and signing someone up for a new membership for 2024.

 

Complete the membership application entering the information for the person(s) receiving the gift. Your name and address should be entered as the billing address on the final payment screen. 

 

Do you want the new member to know the AACA membership is a gift from you? Please add a note in the comment box stating that it is a Gift Membership from “your name.” (The comment box is located at the bottom of the first page of the application form.)

A phone number and email address for the new member is required to complete the online application. If you don’t have this information, give us a call at AACA National Headquarters, 717-534-1910, and we will be happy to take the new member information over the phone.

 

Not only can you start a new membership for a friend or an acquaintance, but you can also treat a family member or friend by paying their 2024 membership dues. To login to renew the membership, you need to know their AACA member number and PIN. If you don’t know the member number and PIN, you can call AACA National Headquarters at 717-534-1910. We will be happy to give you the information or take the payment over the phone.

 

Let’s not forget about our children and grandchildren! You can give them the gift of a new student membership or renew their current student membership, both of which only cost $12! There is no time like the present to get them involved in the best antique automobile club around.

 

So, I challenge each of you to put on your thinking caps and give the gift of an AACA membership to the family member or friend who you think would enjoy it the most. Happy holidays, everyone!

Bringing a Positive End to 2023

By Steve Moskowitz, AACA National CEO, [email protected]

2023 is about to come to a close, and while it was certainly better than the pandemic days it has been anything but an easy year for non-profits. AACA did not get away unscathed either. This year brought many challenges due to the economy, inflation, gas prices, supply chain issues and all the turmoil in the world.

 

As you consider your year-end taxes and philanthropy, hopefully you will consider making a special tax-deductible gift to your club. We hope that those who are required to take a mandatory distribution from their retirement accounts will consider AACA as part of your tax savings plans. Please discuss this with your accountant.

 

Many of you have already given, some have not. Our sincerest THANK YOU to everyone who has continued to support this club with your time and donations! We hate to ask again as we truly realize there are many deserving charities you can choose from for your charitable donations. However, the club is continuing its quest to become stronger each year and your generosity helps us to maintain and grow our member services. 

 

So, we are asking you to please seriously consider making a tax-deductible contribution before the end of the year – it will make all the difference for the future of this club. You can make a general donation to the club, or you can specify your donation to go to the library endowment or the building fund endowment. You can make your donation one of three ways:


Click here to donate online – easy and fast!

 

Call us at 717-534-1910 and we will take a donation

via credit card over the phone.

 

Mail a check off to us right away.

Send to: AACA, 800 W. Hersheypark Drive, Hershey, PA 17033


Remember, you do not have to itemize to take this deduction and any donation amount is appreciated! We will send you an acknowledgement letter for your records.

More Than Just Pie

By Jen Wolfe, AACA Library Director, [email protected]

Thanksgiving has always been my favorite holiday. It’s some of the best food of the year in my opinion, but more than that it’s traditionally been the one holiday that every member of my family attends. It’s an all-day event, showcasing the incredible cooking talents that every single one of us seems to possess, a brusque walk in between dinner and dessert, and in the earlier years a foot race involving my father and three uncles, which almost always resulted in an injury (and subsequent trip to the hospital). It’s a day of being together, being ourselves, and remembering how lucky we are to be a part of the family.


Also, I don’t mind saying…I love pie.


This is a time of year that we all tend to spend in reflection, and although we try to be thankful for the things we have all year long, it’s a day to recognize our blessings just a bit more than usual. Thanksgiving will have passed by the time Speedster is sent out this month, but despite that I thought it would be a good use of our column to give a little extra thanks from the library to just a few of the things and people that might not have gotten enough recognition earlier in the year. 

  1. We are thankful for the Headquarters and Library facility. Those of us who work here every day now often come into the building forgetting to be awed by the showroom, or stopping to admire the national trophies, and walk right up the impressive staircase without even thinking about it. But there are still days we arrive on a foggy fall morning and stare out our windows at a beautiful Hershey landscape or watch as a car is wheeled into the showroom or see the surprise and wonder on visitors’ faces as they see the facility for the first time – and we remember how lucky we are to be here, in this building and in this part of town…and we are thankful.
  2. We are grateful to work with such amazing, talented, and thoughtful people. This building is full of individuals who are passionate about what they do, generous with their time and talents, and patient beyond all reason. They take a personal interest, they go above and beyond, they remember what’s going on in your life, and they are always there. This club boasts an exceptional staff, volunteer corps, and board of directors…and we are grateful.
  3. We are very proud of the collection that’s been built by the hands of so many in the old car community. Donors recognize us as one of the best facilities to bequest their prized possessions, and because of that this library represents the most diverse, comprehensive, and dynamic vehicle-related collection in the world. To be one of the people charged with growing, sharing, using, and protecting that collection is an enormous privilege for all of us…and we are proud to do this work.
  4. We are so gratified to claim the amount of regions and chapters that have developed within this national organization. This building is home to 10 or so people who manage the day-to-day business of the club, but the regions and chapters are how we bring the hobby to the hometowns of our members. It’s difficult to overstate the impact that these groups have on membership, event and car show support, utilization of the library, and the preservation of a hobby that persists against all odds. Boots on the ground…that’s our regions and chapters …and we are so gratified to have them.
  5. We are happy to be in the presence of the cars. Yes, they sometimes don’t start when you’re trying to get them to an event (looking at you, Bookmobile), and cost us a lot of money to restore, and sometimes have a weird smell…but, by God, the machine…isn’t it amazing? It goes without saying that libraries are used to working with books, literature, artifacts, memorabilia, and digital collections. But there are not many in our field who can say they work with old cars. Over the course of the year, I have continually changed the way I answer the question, “So, what do you do for a living?” from “I’m a research librarian,” to “I work in a research library that specializes in antique cars and automotive history,” to finally “I’m an automotive librarian – I work with antique cars.” Admittedly, that may be exaggerating a bit the idea that I’m actually working on the cars themselves, but it illustrates how proud I feel to be doing this job, how amazingly cool it is, and how I want others to see the work we do here. We have a job like no other in our field…and we are so happy to be here. 

If I had unlimited space in this column, I could go on and on. Suffice it to say, Thanksgiving is a good opportunity to take a step back, pause, look at life with wider vision, and remember that we have a lot to be grateful for. Things that are simple to overlook, people who are easy to take for granted, and work that doesn’t hardly feel like work some days – these are just a few of the reasons that I love Thanksgiving.     


Also…as you now know…I love pie.


Happy (belated) Thanksgiving, everyone! 

Interested in becoming a volunteer with the AACA Library?

Contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Matthew Hocker,

at [email protected] or 717-534-2082.

 

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,

at [email protected] or 717-534-2082.

 

Visit our Booth at Black Swan Antiquities

Please scroll all the way to the end of Speedster to find the answer.
Trivia Question

Every car has a seat. But there’s also a car company that’s just so-named…with that same spelling. What is its history and where is it from?

Member Story: Hard Lessons and Model Cars

By Dave Dodge, Burlington, NC, [email protected]

This is a member submitted article.

In May 2003, I entered the classic car hobby by purchasing a 1963 Impala hardtop. It was an all-original car – paint, interior, engine – with 51,000 miles. The Impala had always resided in Alamance County, NC. I kept the car until December 2019 when I sold it to a guy from Charlotte. He had seen the car several years before at the Eagles Nest spring show. From time to time, he would call and make a low offer on the car. This time he met my bottom-line price and picked up the car.


With fresh money in my pockets, I got online and found my 1965 Chevy II 100 2-dr. sedan. It was at Streetside Classics in Atlanta, GA, and looked great to me! A 350 Chevy V-8 and 4-speed had been installed, however, the car appeared stock. It was the base car with stock interior and dog dish hubcaps. That was right up my alley as I always had a thing for cheap model 2-drs. (The first new car I bought in 1965 upon high school graduation was a Biscayne 2-dr., 396, 4-speed.) So, like an idiot, I bought the Chevy II sight unseen and had it shipped to Burlington. When they backed the car out of the trailer it had a little more cam than I was expecting, but the sound was great! I signed for the car and the movers went on their way. I couldn't wait to drive it (my second mistake as I should have driven it before signing) and took off down the road. I didn't get past 35 mph and the car was all over the road. I hit the brakes to turn around and they threw me left into the oncoming lane. Luckily, there was no one coming. To make a long story short, Streetside refused to make the car right and held that it was sold “as is.” Huge lesson learned!


Unable to do heavy mechanical work myself any longer, I had John Johnson at Custom Classics & Restoration fix the car. Repairs were extensive as the complete steering and suspension had to be replaced. Camaro power disc brakes were installed as well as the rear drum brakes replaced. All new brake and fuel lines were run and a 336 posi installed in the stock 10 bolt rear axle. The worst part was whoever replaced the floor pans did not weld them to the subframe. All that was holding it and the engine to the body was about an inch of weld on both sides of the firewall! So, now everything under the car is new except the exhaust and the Chevy II is mechanically sound.

My model car building began when I was 11 with the release of the AMT annual kits in 1958. Other than a few short periods, I've never stopped building and collecting model cars. In fact, in the late '70s until '84 I had a hobby shop in North Canton, OH, called Model Car World. In 1990, I was working for a NAPA store in Indiana when I found a lot of old lacquer paint formulas from the '50s and '60s. That got me to revive the Model Car World name and I began mixing these lacquer colors. I sold them ready to spray (thinned) in one ounce air brush jars for model cars online and at model shows. So, if a builder wanted to paint AMT's '56 Ford Ht. kit in the original Peacock Blue & Colonial White or '55 Chevy in Coral & Shadow Gray Met, I had the paint – literally thousands of colors from the '30s to the '70s. 


After moving to North Carolina in 1992, I began doing the paint full time and added my own line of hand cast resin model car kits. I took current model kits and made different versions out of them; for example, Monogram's 1965 Impala Ht. kit made into a Biscayne 2-dr. I then took that master and made RTV rubber molds and cast conversion kits with two-part liquid resin. My line of over 100 kits included stock Ford, GM, Chrysler, NASCAR, and Drag models. I even made my own decals on the computer to sell with the kits. I've made models for Ronnie Sox, Arnie Beswick, and several other drag and NASCAR legends. Now I finally have time to build models just for me as I sold the paint business in January 2016, and the Resin line in January 2019. I'm now a proud second year member of the Alamance Region AACA.

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 [email protected]

Touring Cajun Country

March 17-23, 2024

Founders Tour

Lafayette, LA

Registration: Open Now!

Click here for brochure

 

When people think of Louisiana, this is the image that comes to mind: miles of bayou, sawdust-strewn shacks, a unique take on French and lots of good food. Welcome to Cajun Country, also called Acadiana for the French settlers exiled from L’Acadie (now Nova Scotia, Canada) by the British in 1755. Cajuns are the largest French-speaking minority in the USA, and while you may not hear French spoken at the grocery store, it’s still present in radio shows, church services and the sing-song lilt of local English accents.

 

Observers have repeatedly remarked upon two distinct ethnic qualities in a very positive light, namely: family ties and hospitality. Travelers in the south have commented on the friendliness with which the Cajun people welcomed guests and strangers into their homes, and also their willingness to share whatever they had, even if it was just a little. Inspired not by charity, but more by hospitality (which is an inherited trait), these people opened the doors to their homes to all and sundry that cared to grace their doorsteps. We look forward to having you grace our doorstep and experience all that the Louisiana Region AACA has to offer on the 35th Annual Founder’s Tour!

 

Hotel Information:

Hilton Garden Inn, 2350 West Congress, Lafayette, La. 70506

Ph: 337-291-1977, Fax 337-237-0400

Room rates from $139 -$159

 

Tour hosts: Ron & Dianne Sonnier, 337-581-7776, [email protected]

This tour is open to historically correct vehicles manufactured between 1932 and 1999.

 

Click here if you would like to request information about this tour be mailed to you.

 

REMINDER: Your 2024 AACA membership dues must be paid

prior to registering for any 2024 National shows and tours.

Update From PCI Regarding the Oral History Project Book

We are writing to provide an update on your much anticipated Antique Automobile Club of America Oral History Project publication. You may be aware and impacted by disruptions in the global supply chain as it pertains to paper and other consumer products. As the publisher, PCI is working diligently to procure the necessary materials to complete production of the publication given the paper shortage.

 

Due to this shortage, we were unable to keep the original estimated ship date of August 2023. We just met with the printer on November 27th and they were able to confirm a scheduled shipping date for the books of December 15th. As a reminder, delivery can take up to a few weeks, depending on where you live.

 

If you purchased the digital version, you already received an email that will provide the capability to access the digital version.

 

We are truly sorry for the additional delay. Again, we are proud to have partnered with AACA and we are confident you will enjoy this Oral History Project publication.

 

We greatly appreciate your understanding and patience as we navigate these supply shortages and delays. We encourage you to contact us directly should you have any questions about your order. We can be reached at 1-800-982-1590 or by email at [email protected].

 

Thank you again for your participation in this important project.

 

Sincerely,

Drew Clancy

President, PCI

More Hershey Memories

In last month’s issue of Speedster, I shared some of my parents’ memories of Hershey as well as some of the memories I have made myself over the last 10 years. At the end of my article, I mentioned that if anyone would like to share a memory about Hershey, I would be happy to put it in this issue of Speedster. Here are two fun memories that were shared…

As "luck would have it," I came across this cover page from the 1974 Hershey Fall Meet shortly before you published the latest Speedster. I then found this photo I took on October 11, 1996, of one of the Hershey flea market fields. The 2 program sheets came from the estate of my uncle Kenneth "Dutch" Kern of Coopersburg, PA, who was a long-standing AACA member. For whatever reason, he did not save the whole program, but note the significant differences between then and today. Sorry, no photos of mud, of which I've seen plenty.

-- Sam Kern, Hudgins, VA (Tidewater Region), [email protected]

Just out of high school in 1954, I was invited to ride – and help drive – to the very first Hershey in my friend Don Chapman's '36 Pierce. We drove through the tail end of a hurricane and the Pierce handled so well in all the wind. The Pierce was only 18 years old at the time, so not old enough to qualify for the show. The show was entirely within the old stadium except for a couple of vendors outside the gate. I've been to most Hershey shows since then, and now have generations of friends to meet up with there.

-- Henry Manwell, Liverpool, NY, [email protected]

2024 Hershey Flea Market & Car Corral Pre-Registration Information

By R.J. "Mac" MacAdam, Flea Market/Car Corral Registration Chairman,

Hershey Region AACA, [email protected]

On behalf of the Hershey Region, we thank you for attending the 2023 Fall Nationals. We hope you had an enjoyable experience. On a side note, please ignore the many FALSE RUMORS in reference to the Eastern Fall Nationals moving from the current site at the Hershey Entertainment Complex – none of them are true!

 

As a reminder, the Eastern Fall Nationals will again be held the first full week in October starting Tuesday and ending with the judged car show on Friday. Mark your calendar for the 2024 show October 8-11. We have already begun working on the 2024 show in which Kurt Froebel will be the Fall Meet Chairman and Vance Wolfe will be his assistant.

 

We will be mailing the 2024 pre-registration packet/cards mid-December. If you do not receive your packet in the mail by January 20, 2024, you should call 717-566-7720 on Monday or Wednesday from 6-8 p.m. eastern time or email [email protected].

 

Please read the following important information regarding the submission of pre-registration cards:

1. A "Space Relocation Form" will be enclosed in each vendor's packet. This will be the only form accepted for space relocation. If you write your request on the pre-registration card, a separate sheet of paper, etc., it will NOT be accepted. Also, be advised we make assignments using the postmark on the envelope. The space(s) must be available after the pre-registration phase in order for you to be relocated. (Additional spaces are NOT SOLD during pre-registration. The May/June issue of Antique Automobile magazine will include the procedure for acquiring spaces during summer registration.) 

2. Pay close attention to the deadline on the card. The pre-registration postmark deadline is February 15, 2024. Your spaces will be in jeopardy if the postmarked deadline is not followed. The registered vendor is responsible (not the spouse, the assistant or the secretary to name a few of the excuses we hear).

3. If your card or check is not signed it will be returned to you. That will also delay your postmark position for relocation.

4. Checks deposited that are returned for insufficient funds, account was closed, etc., will be charged a $35 administration fee.

5. The dates and times for which our telephones will be staffed will be printed on the pre-registration card. If you leave a message, please speak slowly and clearly leaving your name, telephone number, AACA member number and a very short message.

6. If you DO NOT receive your new 2024 AACA membership card by January 15th, DO NOT wait to mail your pre-registration card. Write your AACA member number in the space provided on the card and mail it with your check or money order.

7. Political signs, memorabilia, bumper stickers, pins, buttons, etc., are NOT permitted for sale or display at any AACA National event. This should be considered the "suitable warning" for the following policy extracted from the Policy and Procedure Manual of the AACA. Vendors violating this rule will be expelled. Additionally, refunds of flea market spaces will not be given to the violators in accordance with the AACA Policy and Procedure Manual.

5.9.1 General (Excerpt)

"Nationals are open to the general public. Therefore, their operation and conduct give the public its chief, if not the only, impression of us as a club. When flea markets are held in conjunction with National Activities, it is important that they reflect the family-oriented nature of our hobby and are in keeping with their intended purpose, i.e. to provide a source of parts, accessories, and memorabilia related to our hobby. The meet host reserves the right to expel, after suitable warning, any persons including vendors who conduct themselves in a way that would reflect unfavorably upon AACA."

Still Looking to Get This Year’s Official Hershey Poster?

Did you forget to pick up this year’s official Hershey poster while you were here? Did you “misplace” your poster while you were wondering around the flea market? Were you unable to make the trek to Hershey this year, but would still love to get a poster? Well, you are in luck! We happen to have a small supply of this year’s poster remaining.


World-renowned automotive artist David Snyder received the honor of creating this unique work of art gracing the official 2023 Hershey poster. The posters are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The cost is $25, plus $10 shipping.


Please send an email with your order to Lori at [email protected] or give us a call at 717-534-1910 (M-F, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. ET). 

AACA Merchandise Makes Great Gifts for Your Favorite Antique Car Fans

Looking for that unique gift for the antique car fan in your family? Well, look no further than the AACA merchandise store. 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 stocking stuffers like 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 they will love!

 

Click here to visit the AACA store.

 

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 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.).

Have You Checked Out MemberDeals Yet?

MemberDeals is a 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.


Click here to check out this week's Epic Deals!


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.)

Start 2024 Off Right with Your Official AACA Calendar

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.

LAST CHANCE! Order Your AACA Holiday Cards Today!

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...
“Christmas 1910”
1910 Oldsmobile Limited
Inside: Season’s Greetings
“Christmas 1949”
1949 Ford Custom Fordor
Inside: Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

The cards come in packs of 12 and include envelopes. Each pack is only $12 (plus shipping). You can also purchase them in the AACA store on our website or call AACA Headquarters to place your order (717-534-1910).

Schedule a Tour of AACA National Headquarters

& Library Research Center

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?


If you would like to book a tour, please reach out to Amoi Goldman, AACA Reference Librarian & Outreach Coordinator, at 717-534-2082 or [email protected].

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.
Be Social With Us
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.
 
AACA is on Instagram! @antiqueautomobileclubofamerica 
Be sure to use these hashtags: #DrivingHistory, #AACA, #AntiqueAutomobileClubofAmerica, #Hershey, #AACAHershey, #AACAproud, #AACAstrong
AACA National Activities Calendar

February 8-10, 2024

Annual Convention

Chantilly, VA

Click here for brochure

Click here to book your hotel room


March 17-23, 2024

Founders Tour

Lafayette, LA

Click here for brochure


March 21-24, 2024

Special Winter Nationals

Guaynabo, PR


April 4-6, 2024

Southeastern Spring Nationals

Charlotte, NC


April 5, 2024

Grand Nationals

Charlotte, NC


June 9-13, 2024

Eastern Divisional Tour

Fredericksburg, VA         


June 20-22, 2024

Eastern Spring Nationals

Saratoga Springs, NY


July 10-13, 2024

Western Divisional Tour

Big Horn Mtn., WY


September 12-14, 2024

Western Fall Nationals

Loveland, CO


September 22-27, 2024

78th Revival AAA Glidden Tour®

Fairfield, PA


October 8-11, 2024

Eastern Fall Nationals

Hershey, PA


October 23-26, 2024

Southeastern Fall Nationals

Huntsville, AL


This list is subject to change. New events may be added to the schedule. Continue to watch Speedster for up-to-date information, changes and additions.

Mark your calendars now for all of the 2024 National shows and tours you would like to participate in...

then let the planning begin!

Would you like registration information and materials about any of these

2024 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 2024 membership dues MUST be paid prior to registering for any 2024 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. 

Trivia Answer

SEAT (pronounced say-ahht) is the Spanish Touring Automobiles Company (Sociedad Espanola de Automoviles de Turismo). It was founded in 1950 through a partnership between the state-owned Spanish financing company, some private Spanish banks and Fiat. Since 1986, it’s been a wholly owned subsidiary of Volkswagen and now produces almost 500,000 vehicles annually. Coincidentally, its single most successful market outside of Europe happens to be nearby Mexico.

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.