CCA social activities started off 2018 with a new president, in a new venue, and with a new method for selecting the Dick Thompson Award winner. The Annual Awards dinner was held at Normandie Farm, a charming and intimate French style restaurant located in Potomac, Maryland. The food, accommodations, and service were enjoyed by members and their guests. All who attended were treated to Normandie's famous popovers and to-die for dessert selection. I would like to thank Van, Nita and April for their continued help and assistance in making this year's awards dinner memorable. Guests from both Sport Chevrolet and Radial Tire were able to join us in honoring this year's Dick Thompson Award winner Pat Roney. I believe both Jon and Van took a number of photos of people enjoying the company and activities.
In previous years, the winner was selected on the basis of points accumulated in NCCC sponsored events. In as much as the club is no longer a member of NCCC, this year's evaluation included more subjective criteria. That criteria included an individual's contributions to raising the level of enjoyment and safety of competitive racing, as well as an individual's competitive performance. As a student of Pat's instruction on the track and seeing what he has done to promote Corvette racing I was extremely happy to see Pat recognized as the winner for 2018.
The Club has a number of activities coming up to break up the winter doldrums. On Sunday, February 25th members and their guests are invited to what is becoming an annual event Karting at the Autobahn in Jessup, MD. Pat Roney is the go to guy for this event. There is more information about the event on the CCA web site and also in Pat's section of the newsletter.
Jean Wade has organized a St. Patrick's Day cruise and celebration on March 10th at the Kilarney House. Again, check the events calendar for details and to register for this early spring activity. Speaking of early spring, be sure to check the new competition director's (Bill Sandusky) article for details of the upcoming autocross season. Rumor has he's planning a test and tune session for club members only in March.
In closing this month's column, I would like to invite all members to join us in one of our many club activities. Whether it is an autocross, one of our monthly business meetings (second Tuesday night at the Greene Turtle in Burtonsville), shop night (fourth Tuesday evening at Sport Chevrolet) or one of the many cruises and trips planned for this coming year, please consider coming and joining other members in enjoying life with your Corvette.
Kelly Ryan
2018 President
presidentvette-club.org, 240-601-6045