Thoughts from the Inaugural MCACN

[ORIGLS6]

We rolled in home at 11:55 last night so I haven't have time to post any pictures yet, however I want to throw out these thoughts first.

Many of you have much more history with Events of this kind but I doubt if I get too many arguments when I say the Muscle Car And Corvette Nationals is THE venue of the future.

I've read a few comments so far and quickly looked through some of the pictures that have been posted. Fantastic as they may be, you just had to be there to get the full impact. The blend of makes (GM, Ford, Mopar, AMC) was a big hit. EVERYONE I talked to had positive comments on this. And to make it even better, the quality of the cars was remarkable.
One thing I really liked was the layouts of the 'feature' areas. Some remained in the 'traditional' grid pattern but then you had some in-the-round which broke up the flow and made it interesting. I also heard MANY comments about how the display area seemed to be 'cleaned-up', refering to how the vendor area was separated from the show area. Again, positive comments. The one glitch appeared to be a slower move-in issue but when you consider the number of trailered vehicles compared to previous years, the staff did a good job of handling the congestion and IN MY OPINION, ..... THAT was not a problem that is easily controlled. Too many of us (myself included) tend to get distracted when we enter the building with a trailer. WE need to get in, unload and get out ASAP so those behind us (who MAY be our FRIENDS!!!) can do the same! Unfortunately we tend to chat with folks we haven't seen in a while and lose focus on the job at hand. This is a way WE can help the staff do their job. Just a personal observation, for what it's worth.
I can't think of a single negative comment. I tried to find the principals of the event to offer my personal thank you Sunday afternoon but time got short and most of you were understandably busy. It was a Fantastic Show, a totally enjoyable weekend and I applaud Bob & Vicki Ashton, ALL the Sponsors and Supporters and offer my sincere Thanks to all who worked so many hours, days, weeks and months to pull this together. I hope the show met YOUR expectations because it certainly did mine.

I wish you ALL continued success in the future. This is a show that has been needed for years and I'm proud to have been a small part of it, and even prouder to call many of you friends. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gif

[1969grb]

Dennis, Well said. I agree with you. What a great event. I would also like to thank everyone who helped put this event together. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif

Grady

[Woj]

This was one of the best shows that I have ever attended. The quality and variety of cars in attendance was exceptional.

As previously mentioned the move-in was a little bogged down due to slow trailer unloading inside the building, that was the only glitch that I could see as a participator. This problem was somewhat aided by allowing the cars to be unloaded outside (weather was great) and then driven into the venue. Overall the show was very well run.

The next best aspect of the show was meeting some of the folks that I have only corresponded with via email and pm's over the last few years. I also enjoyed spending time with Grady, Rich, Sam, Dan, Bill and Al. I always learn something new from these guys while having a few laughs.

I'd like to publicly thank Grady for encouraging me to bring my 69 SS Chevelle to the show, and Rich (MrChevy) for trailering my car to and from Chicago.

Hats off to Bob, Vicki and all the sponsors of the show. It was a job well done. I look forward to the next show.

Phil Woj.

http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[396L35]

I have to agree with everyone above, the show was a great success and the only thing I see wrong with this show is how are you going to top it next year??? Mark http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

[ORIGLS6]

As Phil pointed out, unloading/loading speed can be improved if WE the participants work with the staff. This show ended at 5 PM on Sunday. A number of us had our trailers staged in designated areas by around 4 PM. I'll speak for myself and Don Stowers here. We drove out of the building, loaded up, tied down and were ready to hit the road home at 5:42. (Then I discovered my truck battery had died! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/tongue.gif) With Don's, Judi's and Annie's help we were back and running in less than ten minutes and still hit 294 headed South before 6 PM.

My point is; we as participants can help alleviate some of the minor issues if we ALL work together. I can't imagine going through life without friends, and that is not only what makes this show; if you know the history, it's HOW this show came to be.

And as far as the word 'glitch', I certainly don't mean to be critical of the staff. When you look at the number of cars, the variety of cars and the overall quality of cars that we saw this past weekend, I'm betting it's a "problem" that ANY show promoter would gladly accept. These guys will fix it! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

[gwawa]

I have to say that this show was the best blend of muscle cars I have seen in any Chicago venue. I don't know how you top this one, but I sure look forward to next year. The Ashtons and the sponsors did a great job presenting their product.

[Kim_Howie]

I had more fun this year than I've had at the last 4 CVF.
A great display of a lot of the best cars in the country. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

[Schonyenko2]

I agree with all of the above. This had to be one of the best gatherings of fine/rare muscle cars ever.
Mr. Aston and the folks involved did a great job.
Two thumbs up gentlemen. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/youguysrock.gif

Oh yeah, Mr. Ashton, please tell the folks at the Double tree that they have our sincere thanks for letting us all use http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/rolleyes.gif (take over) the lounge again for the annual festivities.
I believe it was a good time had by all, anyway those who can remember. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/crazy.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/crazy.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[Charley Lillard]

Thanks to everyone that brought their cool cars. Without the cars we wouldn't have much. I think we did great for the first time out. Virtually everyone I talked to was amazed at the collection of cars. Yes there was understandable crankiness about move in but all that was forgotten by mid Saturday when everyone had figured out just how special of a show they were part of. I want that 65 Chevy truck with the 409...arrgh....

[ORIGLS6]

Charley's Pick of the Show.

http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m57/dmcumby/MCACN09/DSCF1412.jpg

http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m57/dmcumby/MCACN09/DSCF1417.jpg

http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m57/dmcumby/MCACN09/DSCF1477.jpg

http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m57/dmcumby/MCACN09/DSCF1481.jpg

http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m57/dmcumby/MCACN09/DSCF1482.jpg

This guy kinda looked familiar. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/naughty.gif

http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m57/dmcumby/MCACN09/DSCF1485.jpg

http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m57/dmcumby/MCACN09/DSCF1480.jpg

It was REALLY good to see our old friend Bob again. We walked around together for a while and looked at some cool cars. We miss you my friend.

http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m57/dmcumby/MCACN09/DSCF1476.jpg

[MrsBillyBobcat]

Thanks to ALL of you... Bob & Vicki http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif, the volunteers http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif, the sponsors http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif, and everyone who brought cars. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/youguysrock.gif

Bill and I had a GREAT time!
I'd also like to thank everyone who came by to say "hi" or introduce themselves. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

Special thanks to Kim Howie for finding Cumby for me so I could meet him (I did not know what he looked like http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif) and also to Annie for introducing me to Helen Gibb...WOW! What a SWEET lady she is!!! AND Nancy too! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif I'm soooo glad I had the opportunity to meet them!

[MrsBillyBobcat]

[ QUOTE ]


It was REALLY good to see our old friend Bob again. We walked around together for a while and looked at some cool cars. We miss you my friend.

[/ QUOTE ]

I missed seeing him http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/frown.gif Glad to hear he made it though! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif

[ORIGLS6]

Ha, thanks a bunch Rita. Now my wife's scouring e-bay for some white Go-Go boots! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

So now that you know what I look like; let's give everyone some cheesecake.
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m57/dmcumby/MCACN09/DSCF1545.jpg


You're a treat lady. Thanks for looking me up. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif

[DarrenX33]

I agree, it was spectacular collection of iron. I for one like this format many times over the Vettefest format. An excellent job by the Ashtons and all the sponsors. I was wishing I would have brought a car but I'll save it up for a future showcase idea if Bob allows.

And as usual it was great seeing everyone again. I always look forward to the handshakes, hugs and slaps (Cumby!). I also sincerely wish to thank all of you who make my family feel at home. They truly enjoy you all and look forward to getting together as much as I do. But I must agree with DC. The highlight of my weekend was getting to see Gags again. It had been quite a while since I have seen him. He is really a great guy and his presence has been missed here.

http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/BelairSucks.gif (-sucks +rocks!)

[mockingbird812]

Is it November 2010 yet http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif ?? Great effort, great show. Big thanks to all that pulled it together. Cars were awesome, but seeing old pals and meeting new folks was just swell! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

[Salvatore]

DITTO Sam! Glad we finally hooked up. Also was happy to meet Ed Montini. Alot of nice stuff there and the Ashton Group was outstanding again! Its worth the trip for Benny and I to come out. The Hotel lobby and Gibsons is one of the highlites. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

[ron67]

[ QUOTE ]
Charley's Pick of the Show.

http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m57/dmcumby/MCACN09/DSCF1412.jpg

http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m57/dmcumby/MCACN09/DSCF1417.jpg

http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m57/dmcumby/MCACN09/DSCF1477.jpg

http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m57/dmcumby/MCACN09/DSCF1481.jpg

http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m57/dmcumby/MCACN09/DSCF1482.jpg

This guy kinda looked familiar. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/naughty.gif

http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m57/dmcumby/MCACN09/DSCF1485.jpg

http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m57/dmcumby/MCACN09/DSCF1480.jpg

It was REALLY good to see our old friend Bob again. We walked around together for a while and looked at some cool cars. We miss you my friend.

http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m57/dmcumby/MCACN09/DSCF1476.jpg

[/ QUOTE ]

Charley,

That is definitely one incredible vehicle. We gave it the National Nostalgic Nova club choice award at MCACN ( by a landslide!). I always knew you had good taste! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

Ron

[Postsedan]

Wow! I missed Gags! Bob sorry I missed you, Hope all is well!

My take on the show....

My opinion is that the show was indeed a huge success, I believe that next year will even be even Bigger and Better! Why? Because all of the non-chevy participants that might have been skeptical to bring out there really "Good Stuuf" are no longer skeptical.

They wanted to come in person....without there cars and see the show for themself. Now that they have seen it, and love the atmosphere they will come. Bob Ashton you better get a better, stronger cell phone battery. Great Job Bob Ashton and Crew.

Bob, Thanks for getting in the Black BM 1969 Chevelle in at the very last minute. This meant a lot to my client John.

Dan.

[Charley Lillard]

I spoke to the owner of the pickup. He also owns the black Z16 Chevelle that was next to it. He is looking for a vintage trailer. Attach the trailer to the pickup with the Z16 loaded on the trailer. That would just look killer. Hopefully we can get him back next year with that setup. I guess you Nova guys have good taste also.

[Kim_Howie]

The z-16 had remote mirror and power windows!! Never seen remote mirror on a Chevelle. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

[ORIGLS6]

[ QUOTE ]

My opinion is that the show was indeed a huge success, I believe that next year will even be even Bigger and Better! Why? Because all of the non-chevy participants that might have been skeptical to bring out there really "Good Stuuf" are no longer skeptical.

They wanted to come in person....without there cars and see the show for themself. Now that they have seen it, and love the atmosphere they will come.

[/ QUOTE ]

I just said the same thing Dan. Hopefully the Ford and Mopar (and AMC) folks will get some media coverage and see that this is a 'Must See/Must Attend' event. Getting quality cars to the venue is obviously not an issue. NOW let's ALL spread the word and pack the spectator aisles for 2010!

[sYc]

Wow..what a show!!. Bob/Vicki, you did good, thanks for everything.

Talk about taking a show to another level, I do not know of another indoor mutli-make musclecar show that even comes close to MCACN. I am glad that the sYc was able to be part of the inaugural show, and hopefully allowed to be a part of future shows. I did not get a sYc member car count, but the sYc was well represented. Thanks guys and gals for your efforts.

It was cool to walk around and visit with other club members, see their cars, this time not only Chevys, but all makes.

Another cool thing I liked was meeting all of the celebrebitis who were there back in the day. Their stories are priceless, and of course I was glad to see the Chevrolet supercar dealers well represented

Lastly, had to be the most musclecar writers/authors ever assembled under one roof.

[Steven J]

Great show !

Did anyone happen to see "Broadway Bob" (Great Lakes Dragaway)walking around in what looked like pajama pants and drinking a can of beer ? He's a character for sure, but kind of pathetic, too.

[m22mike]

[ QUOTE ]
The z-16 had remote mirror and power windows!! Never seen remote mirror on a Chevelle. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

[/ QUOTE ]

Hay Kim, I think those remotes were standard on a Z16... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif...Chevelle guys help...
I know they sell for big money when they hit peebait.

[Chevy454]

[ QUOTE ]
Charley's Pick of the Show.

http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m57/dmcumby/MCACN09/DSCF1412.jpg


[/ QUOTE ]
Interesting hodge podge of parts, there...but a "Custom Camper" woulda been a 3/4 ton long bed (for a slide in a camper, hence the name)...and the mid '65 introduced 327 woulda been the largest engine possible (the 305 v-6 was considered the HD engine). Hard to tell, but looks like 1/2 ton wheels (3/4s used 16" split rims, iirc)...

Regardless, still a great looking truck, though, in one of *the* sexiest trucks ever built...http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

<----former '63 C10 owner http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

[Tenney]

Was great to meet a lot of the folks on the board (missed a few, too. Next time!). Wasn't around my car much (already seen that one!) - too much cool stuff to check out! Surrounded by legends - have a die cast of the car parked next to me! Well done Bob and crew - way to put 30 years worth of Vettefests on the trailer! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif And thanks everybody for bringing out all the great cars. Rare wasn't rare for a couple days there! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif

[L72COPO]

What everyone else said times 10. Looking forward to 2010 and I may even scare up something new to bring (not Chevy).

Thanks Mr. Ashton and your 9 subjects for making it all possible.

[Kim_Howie]

Mike, Just found that out. Didn't know that. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

[lzdick]

http://i101.photobucket.com/albums/m57/dmcumby/MCACN09/DSCF1485.jpg

And it sure was nice of someone to bring a milk crate for 'the little fella' so he could see into the engine compartment. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/naughty.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/naughty.gif

[Xplantdad]

C'mon Rich...no making fun of Gags! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

He needs to get his butt back on this site! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/headbang.gif

[Bill Rose]

We had a great time from start to finish. I met a bunch of people I read about here, but have never met. Learned a few things I wanted to know about, as well as having a couple of good diners out with Phil, Grady, Rich, and the rest of their Ohio gang.

We didn't have any delay getting the cars into the building. I guess because we were toward the beginning of the process.

The judging was second to none. I had 4 guys going over the Elky for 20 mins. They were very through. I also learned something about my L78 that I never thought was wrong. Apparently the power steering reservoir cap on a 69 should be Black, not natural?? Anyone care to comment on that. I lost 2 points for it, and a couple other points for small defects, but overall, the judging was taken very seriously, from what I saw.

You've all seen the pictures, so you know the quality and varity of the cars.

At the end of the show on Sunday, The "move out" went better than I'd expected. The majority of the cars were out the door in 30 mins or so. Then the trailers were aloud in, directed to various places in the building, loaded and out the door in a very organized fashion. I was very impressed with the way it was all organized. Moving 500+ cars in and out of a building could get very crazy, but it all worked thanks to all the folks working to make it all run smoothly.
Many thanks to Bob and Vicky for all their hard work, and all the other folks who pulled this off.

I hope it was successful financially, so we can look forward to future shows.

[Mr. Chevy]

I can't really add anything that has not already been said.. Awesome show Bob & Vicki!! I really liked the mixture of different muscle rather than all Chevy stuff...

I really enjoyed spending time with friends and folks from the site here!! Had a GREAT TIME!! I wish Mike (M22Mike) could have been with us but unfortunately his Father had been very ill and passed away on Saturday morning. My thoughts and prayers go out to him and his family...

Rich

[resto4u]

I must say the number of cars and variety was unmatched by any show period. As for glitches mentioned, every show will get better year after year. The people are the x-factor of the the show, the cars are the eye candy. Charley, great to see you again and the incredible Z. My favorite was the 67 pontiac cheetah. Thanks to all who worked there A** off to make this show happen.

[Shevelle]

About all I can add to what has already been said is... http://www.cantweight.net/files/Smiles/wow.gif That was the most awesome display of some of the most incredible and rare muscle we have ever seen! I tried to pick out my favorite but it was impossible (have to say that Cheetah was waaay at the top of the list). We are truly humbled to have been a part of it. I couldn't begin to list all the really cool people we met (Bruce said we would http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif). Ken T. and Don S., it was especially nice meeting you...you guys Really Rock!
Charley, I don't quite understand why this sign... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/CharleySucks.gif...is here. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif Whoever is in sign control must have got you mixed up with someone else! Bruce, the unexpected phone call was a hoot...and I look forward to meeting you in a couple of months!!

A special thanks to Bob for squeezing us in even though we were late with our entries...and for putting up with my mind-changing as well. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif It was obvious the amount of time and hard work you and the rest of the gang put in to making this event a success. This is going to be a tough one to top!

We had a Great time...thanks to everyone for making us feel so welcome. I'm already looking forward to next year and meeting all those I wanted to meet this year but missed. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[Alss]

Another http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif from me too!..show was everything I expected and hoped it would be. The cars were outstanding both in quality and diversity as were the cast of characters in attendance http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif. Bob Ashton you are a gentleman, and your passion for these cars is very evident... kudos to all involved. Thank you for your hard work so the rest of us can come and goof off for the weekend http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif..next year http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif??...sure why not, I dont know how it can be topped, but I want to see them try http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

ALbert

[COPO 70 RS/Z28]

Had a great time, didn't get to talk to a lot of people, sorry about that I had some catching up to do with an old friend from the west coast, Had dinner with Tenney and Jim Wangers http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif, what a great guy Jim is and what great conversation we had.

Most of my photos are of details of a few cars so not much to show but here is a good one of about 1/2 of the show floor!!!!!!

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj121/70COPORSZ28/PB210172023.jpg

http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

Kudos to the Ashton's for a fabulous show, hope I can come back next year!! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/headbang.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/headbang.gif

[carguy]

Thanks for the nice comments on my pickup. It is an honor to be Charlie's pick. I enjoyed meeting Charlie as well as many others at the show. What a great show!

I would have replied earlier, but just returned to Florida with 5 cars that had to be unloaded before Thanksgiving. Wife's humor only last so long....

I do have some heartburn with: (see my comments below)

"Interesting hodge podge of parts, there...but a "Custom Camper" woulda been a 3/4 ton long bed (for a slide in a camper, hence the name)...and the mid '65 introduced 327 woulda been the largest engine possible (the 305 v-6 was considered the HD engine). Hard to tell, but looks like 1/2 ton wheels (3/4s used 16" split rims, iirc)...

Regardless, still a great looking truck, though, in one of *the* sexiest trucks ever built...

<----former '63 C10 owner

--------------------
Rob Clary - '69 Yenko Camaro"

Prior to purchasing the pickup I called a close friend of mine. He spent the mid 60's at the Chevrolet order desk in the central office. He later went on to become a major automobile dealer in the Eastern US. He is a well respected collector with a collection to die for. He was very confident that the options included as well as the 1/2 ton short custom camper bed could have been ordered. I will agree on two things. First, the Tach says GM experimental on the back and was probably not a production model. Second, I changed the wheels because I wanted it to look as it would when it left the factory. The wheels now on the truck are what I remember a 65 custom camper came with. They came from a 65 pickup, but perhaps they may not be absolutely correct.

In any event, Rob, I appreciate your expertise, but if I were hunting for an expert I would listen to my friend before listening to you. He was there.

Thanks

Dave Brewer

[x Baldwin Motion]

Still a nice truck. I am interested in where it originally received the 409.

Others like it too. web page (http://corvaircenter.com/phorum/read.php?1,265088,printview,page=1)

[Charley Lillard]

Great truck Dave.... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/Can-I-Have-It.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[Chevy454]

[ QUOTE ]

In any event, Rob, I appreciate your expertise, but if I were hunting for an expert I would listen to my friend before listening to you. He was there.

Thanks

Dave Brewer

[/ QUOTE ]
Okie dokie... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif