Why Local Clubs Are Important

TinCup

TinCup

Well-known member
I can think of no better demonstration of why local Model A club chapters are important than this example.

On a Sunday afternoon, 6 of us from the Sooner Model A Club, started what we called the Red Car Refresh. Led by Bill Jenkins we put this 1931 Coupe back on solid ground. I tried to document what we were doing with pictures but in many cases I was having too much fun to pick up the camera. I have posted a few of these pictures separately but I put together this photo album for our club web site and thought you might find it interesting.

http://www.soonermodela.org/apps/photos/album?albumid=10679807
 
TinCup,

I can not agree with you enough about a local "A" chapter. I've been a member of two and unfortunately they did not work out for me. In the Harley biker world I'm known as a "free rider" or no club or group affiliations. In car clubs I think it is called a "lone wolf". Maybe it was me,
but I'm more into the car then the social aspects. Touring with groups can be fun as long as they don't get to big and unmanagable. For now I have only two "A" buddies locally and one is 60 miles away. Soon as I get another "A" maybe I'll start my own chapter. Where we will drive as much as possible and help are club bro's keep there "A" on the road as much as possible too. Like you guys do.:cool:

Bob-A:D
 
TinCup said:
I can think of no better demonstration of why local Model A club chapters are important than this example.

On a Sunday afternoon, 6 of us from the Sooner Model A Club, started what we called the Red Car Refresh. Led by Bill Jenkins we put this 1931 Coupe back on solid ground. I tried to document what we were doing with pictures but in many cases I was having too much fun to pick up the camera. I have posted a few of these pictures separately but I put together this photo album for our club web site and thought you might find it interesting.

http://www.soonermodela.org/apps/photos/album?albumid=10679807
Click to expand...

That's really great!!
 
A local chapter helps spur the hobby along getting the cars out and letting people see them being enjoyed. I have done touring with groups and alone, because I am confident in the car and my ability to fix it have never worried about taking off by myself. But others are not as carefree as I am and that is one of the reasons we do the Model A Times as a some what structured but very open to venturing out on your own. But belonging to a chapter gives you comradeship and a reference base for things your are doing and learning.
 
It's always nice to be able to call a club member to help solve a problem, borrow a tool, or if you need an extra pair of hands to help work on your car. I once belonged to a Packard club where no one actually worked on their car. They mostly bragged about how much they spent at the local restoration shop.
 
I am very fortunate to belong to a great club; with members who want it to be active. Also, they don't just do one thing; there are tech sessions, tours, annual swap meet, monthly meetings, officers breakfast, summer picnic, Iowa Model A Day, Christmas party, etc. About every other year the club plans a tour to some national event. Last year it was the national at French Lick, IN; with 11-cars and 21-members attending. In 2012 there is planning for the Midwest Regional hosted by the Central Iowa A's in Altoona, and/or the national in Michigan.

The knowledge base goes from rookie to expert, and everywhere in-between. There is a tool library, and a video and book library. Several members have expertise in specific areas such as transmissions, painting, generators & starters, etc. The membership is in the 100+ range, with 60-70 members attending monthly meetings and 10-20 cars on tours.

I don't think I would enjoy my A as much if I were not a member. Clubs can be a very positive and active experience.
 
I could not agree more Ron. To me the future of the hobby is sharing what we know with those who are just starting out and seasoned veterans as well. Local clubs whether they be part of Mafca, Marc or just a local group insure that interest in the car prevails.

I think last year there were 8 parades and two major trips. Not only for social value but the sharing of ideas and fixes is invaluable.
 
As people new to Model A's, my wife and I joined the local club. Many members have offered their help should we ever need it - it's a great way to build knowledge and friendships at the same time.
 
The local clubs are the life blood of the hobby!! Anyone with a Model A can join and folks can ususally find an aspect of club activity that they enjoy. As always, folks who particpate and contribute help to shape the character of each club.;)
 
brum1 brings up a good point; the folks who participate and contribute do well indeed shape the character of the club. That is why I stated above I am very fortunate to be in an active and diversive club. I know there are clubs others have joined, but after participating for awhile; they found it not to be their "cup of tea." It's unfortunate, but again that is due to the character of the club.

One thing I didn't mention above is our club has members that don't own Model A's; they are just interested in them. One couple has never owned one; but they attend every meeting, and follow most tours using their modern vehicle.
Another thing that I can see helping the activity and diversity of a club; is we also participate with the local AACA. We regularly provide volunteer help (as do they) with events such as swap meet, etc. Sort of a cross-membership thing if you will.

I always advise the new to join a club, you won't be sorry (in most cases).
 
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