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Old 08-09-2012, 08:40 AM   #1
Jim/GA
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Exclamation MAFCA Board of Directors Elections

To all MAFCA members on the Ford Barn:

My application to run for one of the open MAFCA Board positions was recently accepted by the current Board. You will soon be receiving a ballot with your annual dues/renewal notice with my name on it. I am asking for your support. Please vote for me and mail it back.

I have been playing around with Model As, on and off over the years, since I was a teen. I remember being encouraged by my Dad and the other members of our local Model A club to read up on everything and to do tech sessions for the group. I learned a lot from those guys. I've always tried to "pass it on".

Working on the old cars probably sparked my interest in engineering, which has been a fun career. I have taken a lot of what I learned on the job about running an organization back into my local MAFCA region in Houston. I would like to continue to do that at the National level. I have no complaints about how things have been run; I just want to offer another perspective on things and help keep the club moving.

I also feel I represent the "next generation" of club members. These are the ones that use the Internet more than my Dad does, such as yourself, are on the Ford Barn, connect through FaceBook, etc. This group is the future of the Club. That's why I am posting this here. I need your help to get elected.

Please read the ballot instructions carefully and follow them exactly so that your ballot is not rejected. Don't delay. Your vote counts. Details here: http://www.mafca.com/

Thanks!
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Old 08-09-2012, 12:01 PM   #2
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Default Re: MAFCA Board of Directors Elections

OKIEDOKIE ....................
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Old 08-09-2012, 05:13 PM   #3
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Default Re: MAFCA Board of Directors Elections

What is the "Next Generation"?
I am 38 years old, owned many Model A over the years and currently drive my 29 Closed Cab Pick up 3-5 days a week. I am generally concerned because in my area, no one under 55 cares about Model A's. Our club is dying off, not much interest there anymore...Where do we go from here?
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Old 08-09-2012, 09:08 PM   #4
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Default Re: MAFCA Board of Directors Elections

I voted for you today. Got to support my fellow texans. Also voted for Chuck Cheshire. He was the president of my local club last year and would do a great job on the mafca board. He is huge on getting younger people involved with the hobby.
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Old 08-10-2012, 06:07 AM   #5
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Default Re: MAFCA Board of Directors Elections

You got it!
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Old 08-10-2012, 08:37 AM   #6
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Default Re: MAFCA Board of Directors Elections

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Quote:
Originally Posted by spdway1 View Post
What is the "Next Generation"?
I am 38 years old, owned many Model A over the years and currently drive my 29 Closed Cab Pick up 3-5 days a week. I am generally concerned because in my area, no one under 55 cares about Model A's. Our club is dying off, not much interest there anymore...Where do we go from here?
The future of the hobby is very important. I'm 33. There have been several younger members joining our club (20's and 30's). They are very enthusiastic members, and actively participate as families. There is a challenge, though, with the economy and competition with so many other activities. Time and money can be in short supply with young folks.
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Old 08-10-2012, 09:14 AM   #7
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Default Re: MAFCA Board of Directors Elections

I'm "new" to the hobby, within the last two years, so everything I'm about to say is probably wrong. It's just my opinion. And probably uninformed at that. Hope I don't offend...

The national MAFCA club is virtually irrelevant in our local chapter in Colorado Springs. That's probably our fault, but I'm just telling what I've observed over the last few years. Very few members belong to the national club, or at least don't talk about it on a regular basis. There are no MAFCA programs that we take part in. They have never spoken at a club meeting in the last two years I've been there. They don't offer assistance for tours, or website, or newsletter, or membership, or anything that I can think of. Nothing. MAFCA is a non-player. Maybe they're not supposed to do any of those things. I'm not sure. I'm sorry if this sounds dumb, but I'm just not sure what the national MAFCA club should do for local chapters. Anything? So from a "next generation" perspective, I see no reason to join MAFCA. I don't even know exactly what MAFCA offers. So why would I join? To get a monthly magazine? Maybe... I suppose that's enough reason. But maybe not...

Also, from a newbie standpoint, I don't know why MAFCA and MARC are separate clubs. Do they offer different things? (I doubt it.) I get the feeling that its just petty politics that keeps them apart. I've read threads on fordbarn, and there's no consensus on the issue.

Here's what I wish MAFCA would do (from an uninformed newbie standpoint):
1. Send our local club articles for the newsletter from time to time
2. Offer improvement ideas for our website (I built ours: http://www.pikespeakmodelaclub.com)
3. Send out era fashions info, and encourage dressing for the period
4. Speak at our club once a year
5. Organize and promote a BIG tour for our region once a year
6. Organize and promote a local judging contest for our region once a year
7. Produce and promote a touring class judging standard like MARC
8. Join with MARC
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Old 08-10-2012, 09:20 AM   #8
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Default Re: MAFCA Board of Directors Elections

Ray, Have you attended a national meet? I feel that is a big part of the national club, and try to attend whenever possible.
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Old 08-10-2012, 09:54 AM   #9
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Default Re: MAFCA Board of Directors Elections

newshirt made some interesting points, at 61 I'll add a few of my own for what they may be worth. I got into the hobby in 1961 when Dad got his '31 Roadster, we went to the local HCCA show in town every year, but never joined a National Model A club, got real envolved in AACA, but got totally burned out on that. I like Model A's, will always have one to work on but never found the need to join MARC or MAFCA. I know members of both clubs, enjoy seeing them and their cars, there just isn't a "Got to Join!" reason. Whoever figures that out will see membershio grow. Bob
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Old 08-10-2012, 10:26 AM   #10
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Default Re: MAFCA Board of Directors Elections

Our group is quite unique in that while it is recognized by MAFCA, it is an informal group at best. The "organized" group is an AACA affiliate, the Model A group is sort of a subset of the local AACA chapter and operates within the charter of that group. As others have stated, MAFCA has never had a rep in our area, while AACA typically has a rep here at least once a year. Most of the Model A owners (and there are close to 200 of them in Alaska) belong to AACA, not as many to MAFCA or MARC. I personally belong to all of them, just so I can get the golssy magazine.
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Old 08-10-2012, 06:14 PM   #11
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Default Re: MAFCA Board of Directors Elections

The biggest thing mafca offers its members is insurance. Every time your club goes out for a drive today, your covered by mafca. Every member of your local clubs board of directors is required to be mafca members, the mafca logo has to appear in your clubs monthly newsletter, and your clubs president is expected to make regular suggestions that membership join mafca. The same is true for marc. If you love the model A, I don't know why you wouldn't want to join both national clubs.
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Old 08-10-2012, 06:19 PM   #12
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Default Re: MAFCA Board of Directors Elections

INSURANCE??? That is a reason to join a car club? You lost me on that one. Bob
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Old 08-10-2012, 06:34 PM   #13
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Default Re: MAFCA Board of Directors Elections

I'm the organizer of mafca's 13 national tour so I know what the point of joining a car club is. Thanks though.
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Old 08-10-2012, 06:48 PM   #14
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Default Re: MAFCA Board of Directors Elections

I thought you had to be a member of one of the national clubs before you could be a member of one of the local clubs .
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Old 08-10-2012, 07:00 PM   #15
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I am a member of GHMARC where Jim/Tx . did a great job as President last year . He will bring a lot of enthusiasm,energy and fresh ideas to the National Level . Jim you have my vote .
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Old 08-10-2012, 10:08 PM   #16
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X'd your little square and mailed today. Being from up north, your hat seems about 9 gallons short for TX, but that's neither here nor there. Up here in Chicago, we keep the dead relatives on the voting rolls. Sorry I didn't keep up their MAFCA memberships. They would have voted for you, too. Good luck!
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Old 08-10-2012, 10:46 PM   #17
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Default Re: MAFCA Board of Directors Elections

I am a member of both national clubs as well as ACCA, VCCA two local clubs and the American Bantam Club. Those who don't join seem to have the attitude "what's in it for me".

Ask not what the club can do for you. but what you *********** You are missing a lot of good times and new friends.

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Old 08-11-2012, 06:30 AM   #18
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Default Re: MAFCA Board of Directors Elections

Am I the only one that has not received the ballots?
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Old 08-11-2012, 08:01 AM   #19
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Default Re: MAFCA Board of Directors Elections

Haven't seen mine yet either........
Paul in CT


Showed up in this morning's mail.

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Old 08-11-2012, 08:36 AM   #20
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I'll vote for you Jim. And I sure wish the two national clubs would join together permantely too, newshirt. It just would make so much more sense. In these days of dwindling interest in all old antique cars.
Just my .02 worth.

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Old 08-11-2012, 07:46 PM   #21
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Got mine today (Saturday 8/11)

OK, so who besides Jim & Chuck??????
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Old 08-11-2012, 09:52 PM   #22
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Being a member of a Model T club my understanding of the insurance thing is, it protects the club as a unit. We are a LLC to protect the members in case of a law suit. I still have to have insurance on my car and I am responsible if I am in an accident on a club tour not the club insurance. There is at least one Model A club in the area that is not affilated with ether national club.
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Old 08-11-2012, 10:40 PM   #23
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I also got my ballot today. You have my vote Jim. I belong to MARC (since '66) and MAFCA (since '68) and I don't think they will ever get together, at least not in my lifetime. I do enjoy both of the magazines. Don/WI
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Old 08-12-2012, 06:34 AM   #24
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Default Re: MAFCA Board of Directors Elections

Quote:
Originally Posted by spdway1 View Post
What is the "Next Generation"?
I am 38 years old, owned many Model A over the years and currently drive my 29 Closed Cab Pick up 3-5 days a week. I am generally concerned because in my area, no one under 55 cares about Model A's. Our club is dying off, not much interest there anymore...Where do we go from here?
Quote:
Originally Posted by BrianBurkert View Post
The future of the hobby is very important. I'm 33. There have been several younger members joining our club (20's and 30's). They are very enthusiastic members, and actively participate as families. There is a challenge, though, with the economy and competition with so many other activities. Time and money can be in short supply with young folks.
Another younger guy checking in here. I hear what speedway and brian are saying. There are not too many young guys in my area either that are into model A's. I don't think the interest is there because most guys my age are into horsepower and muscle cars if anything. Most people gravitate toward what they remember growing up with and even though my childhood was in the 80s and 90's (I'm 31) muscle cars were far more prevalent. I never remember any classmates driving a model A to school but there were camaros, mustangs, V8 trucks with loud exhaust etc.

The other major factor is competition with other activities like brian said - many of my generation is caught up with video games, home theatre, and computer stuff outside of work if anything. Not only that but they don't have the background to tackle mechanical stuff. I was very fortunate to grow up on a farm and around more rural settings. I worked with my hands from an early age and my family members mentored me on the value of hard work and not being afraid of diving in and just doing something. You don't need a trained professional to teach you how to build a deck or replace a wheel bearing. You might need a manual but the right attitude and attention to detail will go far. Aside from growing up on a farm my high school also offered auto shop, metal shop, and wood shop classes. These are dissappearing from schools at an alarming rate due to budget cuts and almost a growing cultural perception that you need a B.S. degree or white collar job and trades are almost frowned upon. WIth this attitude people don't pursue the skill set needed to work on an old car, or just don't think they have it and end up avoiding the possiblity as a result. People (even my peers in their late 20's and early 30s) are increasingly plugged in and spend less time outside or working with their hands. Not only this but budgets are strained where there isn't enough disposable income or space for a fun car to play with.

How is this overcome? Get your families involved! The young people I see in the Model A hobby all had a family member or friend that got them into it. Either they grew up going to the regional meets and racing hubleys or they inherited one. I think training our kids to not shy away from getting their hands greasy even with a modern car and participating in other things away from a TV or computer screen goes a long way. Lobby your local schools to continue with trade and industry classes. I ended up going and getting a 4 year degree at a liberal arts minded college but my time on the farm and working at a tire shop, a farm implement dealer, and airport would land me a job in an instant if I were suddenly unemployed. It may not be the pay or job that I really want but someone with mechanical skills and the right attitude can find something much faster than an IT guy or furloughed pilot in this economy. Very few young people will just go buy a model A on a whim without thinking hot rod. Mentor them into appreciating the history and give them the respect and desire to contiue with it.

I'll throw in my vote for ya Jim. You seem to know the future lies in some online media and interaction also. Get the word out and good luck!
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Old 08-12-2012, 12:01 PM   #25
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Default Re: MAFCA Board of Directors Elections

Jim, Where are you??? Did you already forget us....
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Old 08-12-2012, 12:15 PM   #26
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Jim, Where are you??? Did you already forget us....
Yes Jim...You need to interact here!

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Old 08-12-2012, 01:09 PM   #27
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Yes Jim...You need to interact here!

Pluck
Guys please relax, I happen to know that Jim is not in Texas right now and so as we all know, finding computer access when we are out of our normal environment can be difficult. Jim was at my shop recently and we had a great time of fellowship. I am on the national Board of Directors serving for another car club, and based on what I know about a national club's operation and of Jim, I concur with others that Jim will be a great asset to MAFCA and deserves your vote.
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Old 08-12-2012, 06:53 PM   #28
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Two clubs join? Would that mean two national meets and two tours a year - one east and one west? That would be nice.
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Old 08-12-2012, 08:59 PM   #29
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Jim, Where are you??? Did you already forget us....
Hi, all. Yea, I have been on the road. Finally home to real Internet again. The WiFi in McDonald's works OK when you're there, but we don't stop too often.

I really appreciate the comments from everyone. It took me a while to read them all and absorb them. The insights from the younger members are really valuable. Most of us lived through those times that interfere with club activities (buying first home, having kids, kid activities, etc.) so it is a good reminder to us all.

One of the most valuable lessons I learned in the business world is that I should spend more time listening than talking. Translating that to running for the MAFCA Board, I plan to listen more than I respond. I want to hear from the membership, on Ford Barn or privately. Feel free to e-mail me at 29A at comcast dot net.

I am concerned about this thread turning into an emotionally charged gripe session that will not be productive in the long run. So please try to keep comments constructive.

Thanks all, and keep it coming.
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Old 10-13-2012, 07:24 AM   #30
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Default Re: MAFCA Board of Directors Elections

Quick reminder:
MAFCA Ballots need to be postmarked by Oct. 15th. That is Monday (2 days from now).

If you still have your ballot and have put off mailing it in, please go find it, (vote for me, of course! ) and get it in the mail.

Thanks!
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Old 10-13-2012, 10:19 AM   #31
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Jim, I wish you had more actively responded to the issues and questions raised on this thread. After reading every response, I still don't know the purpose of MAFCA, except for a national tour and a monthly magazine. And I still don't know why MAFCA and MARC are separate clubs, except for petty politics. The old guys know, but some of us newbies have no clue, and are waiting to be inspired.

Believe me when I say I'm ready to join! I just need a reason. I've only been in the hobby two years and still have a high level of enthusiasm. But in that time, MAFCA has been virtually a non-player in Colorado Springs. But again... that may be the local club's fault. I don't know... and I apologize for casting blame when it may be our own fault.

Please elaborate on how you are going to reach the next generation.
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Old 10-13-2012, 11:02 AM   #32
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The national clubs also maintain and print judging standards and other technical documents, besides what the excellent magazines have to offer. I concur that the national meets and tours are also excellent. More MAFCA events tend to be central to west coast, and MARC events tend to be central to east coast. Like any other organization, the national clubs are what you make of them.
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Old 10-13-2012, 12:22 PM   #33
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Vote for Jim -- if for no other reason, he's from Texas!
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Old 10-13-2012, 04:10 PM   #34
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Newshirt brings up some interesting points. It seems to me the main function of MAFCA is to provide an ogranization which enables its members to meet other Model Aers on a local, regional, and national level. I love nothing more than to be on a tour with Model A Fords. The fact is that all organizations have politics as it is the nature of the beast. Therefore, it is important to have leadership which truly loves the hobby and works towards the best interest of all. I have been a member of two MAFCA chapters and MAFCA during the last ten years. I always enjoy the Restorer as I find it educational and interesting. I have attended many MAFCA Northern California Regional Group events where I have met many fellow Model Aers that I would never have come into contact with. I have not always agreed with MAFCA Board decisions but that is human nature. I suppose you can continue just fine without MAFCA, however, I think is a bargain for $40 a year to associate with so many Model Aers. If Newshirt attends a future regional or national meet, I would hope he would agree it is worth the $40. JMO
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Old 10-13-2012, 07:44 PM   #35
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Default Re: MAFCA Board of Directors Elections

I also have always felt that the 2 clubs should be combined but I've only been a member since 1970. The old timers an their egos will never let it happen.
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Old 10-14-2012, 09:29 PM   #36
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I'm a younger guy myself, and I did join MAFCA, but only because an older guy who is in to the local club scene as well as MAFCA told me to. He said it was essential. So far, I tend to disagree.

Wife and I have a Model A because we like it, not because it is a hobby. We use it as a weekend car for our trips together. Neither of us wants to play "dress-up" or have it "judged" or commit our Model A to use only on pre-arranged club tours. The idea of joining a single file line of Model A's on 2-lane highways once a month just rubs us wrong.

Our interest in the Model A car is for many other reasons, including the absolute simplicity of the car and lack of computers or other modern "fluff". It could have just as easily been an early VW, except for being foreign. We also wanted a car made in America.

Meanwhile, I really don't know what MAFCA does, other than send out a nice magazine or be a cheerleader for the clubs that promote the very "geezer" activities we don't want to do with our car. We absolutely can't stand the thought of dressing up like actors playing 1920's people and driving around in the car. We'd feel pretty stupid! I know there are some people (like the older guy that made me join MAFCA) who really enjoy playing "dress-up", and that's OK. The fact that MAFCA promotes playing "dress-up" is OK too. I'm simply saying, I don't see the benefit of our membership at all.

So, since my wife and I are apparently the future of MAFCA in some small way, please enlighten us on what point(s) we're likely missing. Does MAFCA have a program for people that just use their cars for occasional pleasure use only that isn't club related? Does MAFCA do anything for the mid 30's and 40's people who don't care about conventions, playing "dress-up", driving single file in a group of Model A's, playing with Hubleys, judging cars, having their car judged, or reading a magazine about these activities?

Perhaps the organization would appeal to more people if it became more like AAA, but for Model As. In other words, have MAFCA approved repair shops, parts vendors, repro suppliers, etc. And, administer the program so that if you need something for your car, and you find a place that is MAFCA approved, you would know that your Model A will receive the best in care/parts/whatever. And if not, you tell them and they threaten to yank the MAFCA seal of approval unless they make it right. Maybe adopt a MAFCA insurance company partner program where if you join MAFCA, classic car insurance companies would offer discounts or whatever being a member.

Now, THAT would keep my membership dues coming year after year. Otherwise, seriously considering dropping it next renewal. We just don't see the value in being members.

Thanks!
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Old 10-15-2012, 12:24 PM   #37
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Default Re: MAFCA Board of Directors Elections

From reading this thread, it seems like the two national clubs are falling short of connectiing with their members.
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Old 10-15-2012, 01:03 PM   #38
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I'm a younger guy myself, and I did join MAFCA, but only because an older guy who is in to the local club scene as well as MAFCA told me to. He said it was essential. So far, I tend to disagree.

Wife and I have a Model A because we like it, not because it is a hobby. We use it as a weekend car for our trips together. Neither of us wants to play "dress-up" or have it "judged" or commit our Model A to use only on pre-arranged club tours. The idea of joining a single file line of Model A's on 2-lane highways once a month just rubs us wrong.

Our interest in the Model A car is for many other reasons, including the absolute simplicity of the car and lack of computers or other modern "fluff". It could have just as easily been an early VW, except for being foreign. We also wanted a car made in America.

Meanwhile, I really don't know what MAFCA does, other than send out a nice magazine or be a cheerleader for the clubs that promote the very "geezer" activities we don't want to do with our car. We absolutely can't stand the thought of dressing up like actors playing 1920's people and driving around in the car. We'd feel pretty stupid! I know there are some people (like the older guy that made me join MAFCA) who really enjoy playing "dress-up", and that's OK. The fact that MAFCA promotes playing "dress-up" is OK too. I'm simply saying, I don't see the benefit of our membership at all.

So, since my wife and I are apparently the future of MAFCA in some small way, please enlighten us on what point(s) we're likely missing. Does MAFCA have a program for people that just use their cars for occasional pleasure use only that isn't club related? Does MAFCA do anything for the mid 30's and 40's people who don't care about conventions, playing "dress-up", driving single file in a group of Model A's, playing with Hubleys, judging cars, having their car judged, or reading a magazine about these activities?

Perhaps the organization would appeal to more people if it became more like AAA, but for Model As. In other words, have MAFCA approved repair shops, parts vendors, repro suppliers, etc. And, administer the program so that if you need something for your car, and you find a place that is MAFCA approved, you would know that your Model A will receive the best in care/parts/whatever. And if not, you tell them and they threaten to yank the MAFCA seal of approval unless they make it right. Maybe adopt a MAFCA insurance company partner program where if you join MAFCA, classic car insurance companies would offer discounts or whatever being a member.

Now, THAT would keep my membership dues coming year after year. Otherwise, seriously considering dropping it next renewal. We just don't see the value in being members.

Thanks!
I TOTALLY agree with you on one thing, ....belonging to MAFCA is not a value for someone like you simply because of your goals. That is OK!! The reason I say this is because THEY are the one that should dictate what THEY want their club to be, ...and their direction apparently does not align with your present goals.

I think sometimes we forget the basics. Just because we say we want the two clubs to merge, ...or cater to a certain facet of the hobby that we like, maybe that is not the goal or direction that club/business wants to go. Just because I am a member does not mean they should change their course to accomandate me. For example, I am a regular patron of Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant but even though I want them to serve hamburgers, that is NOT in their business model. One might also suggest that Chick-Fil-A and Bojangles Chicken should merge since they both serve chicken in a different way which would allow them to save costs and be as large as KFC. Even with a merge I suspect there would be a new set of shortcomings that would surface.
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Old 10-15-2012, 03:11 PM   #39
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I think that two clubs are fine. Competion only makes for better magazines , information ect. I have belonged to both since around 1978.
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Old 10-15-2012, 04:21 PM   #40
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Default Re: MAFCA Board of Directors Elections

jim,
if i was a member you would have my vote

good luck
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Old 10-16-2012, 12:06 PM   #41
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Brent- Yes, I agree. The organization shouldn't try to be everything to everyone. That's a formula for failure. However, I do think they are missing the boat in a couple areas that would make them more relevant. My point was- As I see it, unless you are involved in a few specific activities that form the "Model A hobby", they are almost completely irrelevant. And that is why I asked if I was missing something, because it is certainly possible that I am.

Jeff- Thanks a lot, man! I'm sure amongst this group here, we could come up with LOTS of great ideas that would make MAFCA a relevant, and powerful voice to many more Model A enthusiasts. It's clear from this thread that not everyone sees MAFCA membership as worthwhile. That paints a dim future for the organization if they don't make changes or modernize a little. Simply creating a website is NOT enough "modernization" to count anymore. Organizations (especially national organizations) need to make themselves relevant and their membership needs to hold great value.
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Old 10-16-2012, 01:38 PM   #42
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Default Re: MAFCA Board of Directors Elections

I don't necessarily think you are "missing" anything in as much as it appears your interests and the goals of that club are apparently not the same. I do think you are missing out by not at least trying to broaden your interests/participation within the hobby. I personally view participation within MAFCA/MARC is just like any other organization like PTA, Kiwanas, or even your church. A person can go to a church on occasion without the need to join that congregation, ...and it is very likely that one won't receive much satisfaction back if they don't put any effort in. For me on the other hand, I find I usually have a good time if I am willing to try something new and participating with others. Sometimes the interest may not there for me to do that very item again but to most hobbyists, it is about the camaraderie & fellowship of fellow Model-A owners. The club is just there to provide a medium, ...and 'excuse' if you will for those to get together to share their commonality.
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Old 10-16-2012, 03:45 PM   #43
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Quote:
Originally Posted by P.S. View Post
I'm a younger guy myself, and I did join MAFCA, but only because an older guy who is in to the local club scene as well as MAFCA told me to. He said it was essential. So far, I tend to disagree.

Wife and I have a Model A because we like it, not because it is a hobby. We use it as a weekend car for our trips together. Neither of us wants to play "dress-up" or have it "judged" or commit our Model A to use only on pre-arranged club tours. The idea of joining a single file line of Model A's on 2-lane highways once a month just rubs us wrong.

Our interest in the Model A car is for many other reasons, including the absolute simplicity of the car and lack of computers or other modern "fluff". It could have just as easily been an early VW, except for being foreign. We also wanted a car made in America.

Meanwhile, I really don't know what MAFCA does, other than send out a nice magazine or be a cheerleader for the clubs that promote the very "geezer" activities we don't want to do with our car. We absolutely can't stand the thought of dressing up like actors playing 1920's people and driving around in the car. We'd feel pretty stupid! I know there are some people (like the older guy that made me join MAFCA) who really enjoy playing "dress-up", and that's OK. The fact that MAFCA promotes playing "dress-up" is OK too. I'm simply saying, I don't see the benefit of our membership at all.

So, since my wife and I are apparently the future of MAFCA in some small way, please enlighten us on what point(s) we're likely missing. Does MAFCA have a program for people that just use their cars for occasional pleasure use only that isn't club related? Does MAFCA do anything for the mid 30's and 40's people who don't care about conventions, playing "dress-up", driving single file in a group of Model A's, playing with Hubleys, judging cars, having their car judged, or reading a magazine about these activities?

Perhaps the organization would appeal to more people if it became more like AAA, but for Model As. In other words, have MAFCA approved repair shops, parts vendors, repro suppliers, etc. And, administer the program so that if you need something for your car, and you find a place that is MAFCA approved, you would know that your Model A will receive the best in care/parts/whatever. And if not, you tell them and they threaten to yank the MAFCA seal of approval unless they make it right. Maybe adopt a MAFCA insurance company partner program where if you join MAFCA, classic car insurance companies would offer discounts or whatever being a member.

Now, THAT would keep my membership dues coming year after year. Otherwise, seriously considering dropping it next renewal. We just don't see the value in being members.

Thanks!
PS— You raise valid points, but they all come down to one thing, I think, and that is participation. Some of us are just not joiners (and I'm one of those, though I have been a member of MAFCA since 1970), but the more you participate the more you get back, and that's true of any activity.

And since you have some good ideas for improving MAFCA, may I suggest that next year you run for the Board? You live in CA, which makes Board attendance pretty easy. I had two major issues with MAFCA in 1979, and couldn't get any action on them: 1): MAFCA should pay for Board members' transportation to meetings so as to encourage nationwide representation on the board, not just guys from California; 2): There was a supplier, who regularly advertised in The Restorer, who was doing shoddy work, and I felt that MAFCA should not allow disreputable suppliers to advertise in the club mag because it looked like endorsement.

I ran for and was elected to the Board, and in the first year both of those issues were addressed: the Board voted to subsidize travel expenses, which has greatly increased national representation on the Board; and the bad supplier was banned (though he has now returned... and is still doing shoddy work. I may have to run again!).

Even though I initially only had two issues, I subsequently had a lot of fun, met many new and wonderful people, and helped move the club in new directions on other items.

So cowboy up and help make the club what you think it should be. You will be rewarded many times over.

(Apologies to Jim for hijacking his thread. But I think this is relevant, and I've already voted for him and hope he gets elected.)
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Old 10-16-2012, 11:12 PM   #44
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Thanks, Ray. Very good point.

If I was a retired person, then running for the board would be something worth looking into. However, as a business owner/operator and being an employee of another company, I'm already putting in anywhere between 60-70 hours a week at work, then have a small farm to run and family to serve when not at work. Just not happening.

Maybe that's why there aren't more younger people involved? Younger people still tied up with work, family, etc.
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Old 10-16-2012, 11:16 PM   #45
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Thanks, Ray. Very good point.

If I was a retired person, then running for the board would be something worth looking into. However, as a business owner/operator and being an employee of another company, I'm already putting in anywhere between 60-70 hours a week at work, then have a small farm to run and family to serve when not at work. Just not happening.

Maybe that's why there aren't more younger people involved? Younger people still tied up with work, family, etc.
Sounds like your plate is full! Maybe you (or maybe I, or anyone else here who recognizes their value, for that matter!) could send your ideas to the MAFCA Board. They are certainly worthy of consideration.

You may be right about younger people running. I was 35-38 when I served, but I worked for myself and my time was pretty flexible.
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Old 11-20-2012, 03:46 PM   #46
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A few people have asked me how the MAFCA elections turned out. Here is a copy/paste from their home page:

Election Results

October 28 - from Jerry Wilhelm, 2012 Membership Director
The election for the MAFCA Board of Directors has been completed. Dave Jones informed the board that there were 18 volunteers working the vote counting on Wednesday October 24th at MAFCA headquarters in La Habra.
Congratulations to the MAFCA Members who were elected to the Board of Directors for the term 2013-2014.
  • Charles Cheshire - Dallas, Texas
  • Dan Foulk - Bakersfield, California
  • Douglas Linden - Southborough, Massachusetts
  • Trudy Vestal - Placerville. California
  • VaughnCille Weidner -Yukon, Oklahoma
These members will be installed during the Awards Banquet being held in Charleston South Carolina on December 11th. In addition, both of the Bylaw amendments passed. Thanks to all who voted!
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Old 11-20-2012, 04:00 PM   #47
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Jim, I'm sorry you weren't elected. I think you would have been a good new voice. I also think that on their site MAFCA should thank those who ran and were willing to serve but were not elected.
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Old 11-20-2012, 06:56 PM   #48
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Oh, yea, I plan to run again next year.

It's all good.
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