BeachBlast, May 20, 2007

In our part to fulfill our commitment to Mike Kelly's Cruise News, our club jumped in once again and made this premier show come off without much of a hitch. We now have 5 experienced club members that are pretty much hand picked by Mike Kelly to represent his magazine. As always, Mike really appreciates the hard work and commitment of these individuals.

Although the show is officially a one day event on Sunday, preparations begin on Tuesday. Bob Arnold, our club's point man, meets with the hotel staff on Tuesday morning and  begins the process of emptying the show field of parked cars. On Wednesday, Bob reports to the hotel and stays through the following Monday for cleanup and a final critique with the hotel staff. On Friday, Jack Messemer, aka the 'gate guy' shows up with a lighting tower and begins the process of sorting out show cars, hotel guests and keeping out the local goofballs. Bill Craft also arrives on Friday evening to begin his shift at the gate. Bill is considered our 'go get em' guy. He loves to chase down the 'illegal's" until the show is officially over. Ed Fitzpatrick is our Saturday morning savoir. His donuts and coffee at 6 AM is a welcomed sight. Ed is the "traffic cop." No one moves in or out of the resort's entry without Ed's permission. He's also the guy that keeps A1A moving smoothly until after the show on Sunday. This year, Dave Smart arrived on Saturday afternoon and throughout the day to assist with the gate and the promenade parking.

As previously mentioned, these guys do a fantastic job. Lots of work with only a few hours of sleep (maybe) squeezed between a very hectic schedule. Way to go guys!

The sold out show had 200 premier show cars in attendance. Most of these cars are never seen around our area. So, it's really a treat to see some of the best of the best. This is a can't miss show! Hope to see a few of our club members participate in the show next year.