The Prez Sez…

Changed Over the Years

The title of this writing can be taken in more than one way. Could be improvements over time, or the other way, when some items seemed to be better manufactured in the past. And of course, reminiscing about how things were years ago.

The accompanying photo shows a canvas water bag. The best way to describe it is the following from the internet. These bags, from way back in the early 1900s to the ’60s, were the lifeline on those long, dusty road trips, especially out in the desert where the sun beat down like it had a personal grudge. The trick was simple- soak the bag, fill it with water, then hang it off the car’s hood ornament or bumper like some makeshift relic. As the water bled out, it didn’t just drip; it evaporated, cooling itself down about a dozen degrees below the scorching air.

Radiators and coolants fall into the improvements over time category. A few other automotive items which have improved include, exhaust systems, belts, hoses, and ignition systems.

Occasionally, with club members, I will hear, ” It’s not the way it use to be.” The statement may not be about Willmar Car Club, however, if it was, it would be true. Over time, changes are inevitable. Some we don’t like to see, but really can’t do anything about, such as the loss of members. Just as the water bag disappeared, some changes fall into the improvement over time classification. Our Club was organized in 1980, and in the years since then, officers and board members have steered this organization in the direction, which I think with much consideration, was right for the time.
My point in writing this is I will have served three years as president at the end of the year. Three years is a good term limit for me. Nominations for all of the club offices will not open until November. Perhaps by mentioning the openings early, members with insight and ideas to aid Willmar Car Club with the changes time will bring would consider a club office. Our secretary’s position will also need to be filled. Thank you, Linda, for your three years.

The month of August in review has been great. The breakfast on the 3rd at Sherry’s Cafe in Kerkhoven served 27 people in attendance. Friday the 9th was the New London to New Brighton Antique Car Run Parade in New London. Willmar Car Club was once again invited to follow the brass era cars. We participated with nine cars. The following day (10th), twenty members toured Colfax Custom in New London. A thank you to Bud for taking care of all the details. Another thank you to Jay for contacting and organizing the Aug 14th visit to Bethesda Northpoint near New London. With six cars, our one-hour visit was part of their “Elvis” week. Twenty members attended another August picnic and meeting at the Diamond Lake County Park on the 19th.

Looking ahead for September, the Car Buffs Breakfast will be at the Paynesville American Legion. The buffet will be served by Legion members at 9:00 am. We will be returning to the Paynesville area on the 14th for the September meeting. I think this will be an enjoyable time, beginning with a noon meal at Dick and Carol Johnsons on Lake Koronis. Dick will be grilling hamburgers for us, and we are asking for potluck dishes to complete the meal. You can arrive at 11:30 am or so, again, eating at noon. A visit to Paynesville Health Care Center is planned for about 1:15 pm.
Then returning to the Johnsons for desert and the September meeting. Along with a number of collector cars, Dick and Carol have a very interesting collection across the road and I think a look at this will also happen. Check this newsletter for directions and a location to meet if you would like to cruise to the Johnsons with others.

Hoping your changes are for the better.

~ Bob