President's Message

 

Runabouts to Rockets
Volume 41 #11-12
November-December 2022

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It seems like only yesterday I had the privilege of taking on the stewardship of the National Antique Oldsmobile Club. Where does the time go? On 31 December at midnight I will turn back into a pumpkin. Some (or many) are heaving a great sigh of relief. Some may like to carve a new face on the pumpkin. And now it is time to yield the reins to another Oldsmobile aficionado, Greg Minges. How do you say goodbye? I remember Douglas MacArthur saying “Old soldiers never die, they just fade away." How about “Old Oldsmobile President’s never die, they just smell that way." Seems off somehow. Of course the standard in several languages comes to mind: Adios, Arrividerci, Au Revoir, Auf Wiedersehen. Interesting that they all start with A. The alliteration would be perfect when combined with a part of the down south anatomy. Shakespeare said “parting is such sweet sorrow." Oscar Wilde nailed it “"Some cause happiness wherever they go; others whenever they go." Or last and not least, "It won't be the same without you here, work may actually get done!"

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So many thanks are in order. The Directors of the Board over the last 5 years immediately come to mind and the Executive Members of the Club. This is true in so many uncountable ways. Of course interacting with the members of this Club at Meets and at other venues has been terrific. The design and unique way the national meet works ensures inclusivity and a feeling of family, like a family reunion. The car hobby is fabulous the way it encourages folks of all backgrounds to get together through the common thread of Oldsmobiles. Without this thread I would have missed out on friendships with so many. For all these reasons I am so grateful to all of you. I would be remiss if I did not profusely thank my wife, Stacy, who has allowed me to enjoy this hobby with you; we in fact shared our wedding reception with those who attended the Meet in Peoria, IL. Thanks also to my daughter, Sara, who designed and hosts the NAOC webpage.

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On a sad note, Al Maurer, our long time advisor on the 46-48 station wagons passed away recently. Our condolences are extended to his family. Phil Fischer is improving from his ills and called me a week ago. Best wishes for further health improvements to Phil.

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I just returned from Hershey, PA. from the AACA Eastern swap meet and show. The weather which was so perfect the last 2 times was back in form with the first two days having substantial rain; the vendors were not amused as they lost 2 days of time for selling. Thursday and Friday were spectacular with no rain and temps in the 70s. I did not walk the entire field this year (21 miles) but still purchased a few items; since I flew there the items I bought were small so I could bring them home in my carry-on bag.

Next year’s meet in LaCrosse, WI, hosted by Jan and Mark Santos is shaping up well and I encourage all to try and attend. Information on the Meet will be in the next issue including information on the host hotel, etc.

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All in all the 125th anniversary of Oldsmobile in 2022 went well. Despite the above where it seems my death may be greatly exaggerated I will look forward to seeing everyone in the future, God willing and the creek don’t rise. Enjoy the Holidays to come, Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas and especially don’t forget National Bittersweet Chocolate with Almonds Day. Someone once said, "It will not be the same without you. It will actually be better!"

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—Rick Winn (#914), Lame Duck President
Slaton, Texas​