An Announcement

[bashton]

It is with a heavy heart that I announce that due to company downsizing, I am no longer an employee of Championship Auto Shows, Inc.

Effective immediately, I can be reached via e-mail at [email protected]

My cell number remains the same; (586) 549-5291.

I am looking for a job in a related field, so if anyone knows of an opportunity, please keep me in mind.

I would like to express my sincere thanks to all of my sYc family for the continued support and also for helping me resurrect the Chevy Vettefest. It was truly a pleasure meeting many of you through this site and also working with so many of you.

As Vicki says, when one door closes, another will open...

BA http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif

[1967 Impala]

Very sorry to hear that
But Vicki is correct and with some luck you will land on your feet and be off and running. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/burnout.gif

Good Luck!!

[CC Rider]

Very sorry to hear this.

[DarrenX33]

Bob this is rotten news. Vettefest will not be the same without you. And indeed Vicki is right, your door will open. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gif

[Postsedan]

This is terrible, just terrible. Championship Auto Shows, Inc. will realize what a HUGE mistake they just made.

Bob, you are correct something great will happen as a result of this.

Dan.

[wheelhop]

Bob,
sorry to hear the news. I'm sure you will find something better soon! Hang in there. Good things happen to good people.

[Salvatore]

Sorry to hear that Bob! A big loss for them. The cream always rises to the top so you will be back on top real soon! I am glad I got to be part of your best VF! Sam

[jeff morocco]

Bob,
sorry to hear of this news. without you and your continued support, i can truly say that i would not have EVER brought a car back to Vettefest. im with Dan, they have made a HUGE mistake. at least me and my family were part of your best show ever and for that, you deserve the little worship dude...... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif

[Schonyenko2]

I gotta agree with Jeff. This really bites the big one. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/mad.gif

[Charley Lillard]

This sucks. Who can we contact ?

[Rixls6]

Really sorry to hear it Bob. Another bean counter mistake.
Like others said, I'm sure you will end up somewhere better.
Maybe take over VF on your own. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/cool.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif
It won't be the same without your input there. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/no.gif

[Salvatore]

[ QUOTE ]
This sucks. Who can we contact ?

[/ QUOTE ]A good idea! Maybe we can all sign a petition. Its really http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/bs.gif

[bashton]

Thanks to all of you for your support. I will truly miss being a part of the CVF,(and the AutoRama and World of Wheels shows too), as you all know, it was "my baby".

Championship Auto Shows, Inc. is owned by Pete Toundas and Bob Larivee, Jr. The office number is (248) 373-1700.

BA

[Xplantdad]

That's bullcrap...they don't have a clue...

We'll find you something better... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[shor]

I just sent a message using their automated message server.

[shor]

here is the website.....not sure if bob wants us to say anything to them.....i just politely told them that bob was the reason i bring a car year after year.

http://www.autorama.com/casi/contact.html

[Stefano]

WTF!

That was a total Bonehead move on their part, on many levels. You just can't replace what Bob brings to the table!

I don't think disclosing this will be an issue, at this point, but our contract as title Sponsors of the Chevy Vette Fest specifically included Mr. Bob Ashton's employment. I guess that speaks volumes regarding their thoughts about the 7 events we have sponsored since Bob took over?

[x Baldwin Motion]

Bob, I am truly disturbed to hear this.

You represented that show and organization as if it were your own. It is not likely they could find another car guy with your enthusiasm, dedication and professionalism. I am sure a man of your qualifications has much to offer many quality organizations. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/headbang.gif

Good Luck- Chris http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gif

[sYc]

[ QUOTE ]
WTF!

That was a total Bonehead move on their part, on many levels. You just can't replace what Bob brings to the table!

I don't think disclosing this will be an issue, at this point, but our contract as title Sponsors of the Chevy Vette Fest specifically included Mr. Bob Ashton's employment. I guess that speaks volumes regarding their thoughts about the 7 events we have sponsored since Bob took over?

[/ QUOTE ]


Though not in writing, I do not think it is any secret that the reason for the sYc's heavy involvement in CFV was because of Bob and Vicki. For the past several years, between Nickey and the sYc, usually 50-60 member cars, and this past Fall, I would guess close to 100 member cars there, with the qaulity second to none. Why rock the boat? http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/dunno.gif


Looking at their site/schedule, appears CVF is a thing of past, with their focus on World of Wheels shows. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbsdown.gif

[SIR-VIVOR]

Bob, Thanks for arranging the "Twins" for the 409 display! Priceless!!!! Never had so much fun. Chris P.

[pSYCo]

...now THAT was a BIG mistake !!!!!!!UNBELIEVABLE !!!!!

[Stefano]

I have been on the Phone with many Key people involved with Supporting the Chevy Vette Fest. Some for the past 27 years.

No one I have communicated with has been Ok with this decision.

While the sYc had a Great Showing of over 100, of the finest and Most significant Chevys, we also had thousands of friends and Members show up and pay the gate as well as support the Vendors!

[Born30YrsLate]

IMHO...Bob + Vicki Ashton = Vettefest Success....it's very simple math, surprised the bean counters couldn't figure that one out...
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

[hvychev]

This is very disturbing news. Who knows what goes on the minds of these corporations. I will bet that Chevy Vette Fest show will suffer without the dedication of Bob Ashton.

[rare1]

So who will still travel there to show a car is what i wanna know "or" even go there for a show?
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/no.gifNot me.....

Bob you put on a great show & it will all work out for the best!
And i think taking over CVF is a great ideal!!!
Good luck & best wishes http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gifAnd hold your head high for putting on some of the best shows ever!! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/headbang.gif
http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/scholar.gifAnd it will never be pulled off again without you.

[70 Forest Green Zee]

Bob...what is preventing you from starting your own company and doing this on your own? You have certainly proven that you have the know how to organize and run a car show of top notch caliber...why not do it on your own and put those son of a bitches right out of business!!!

[Smokey]

Maybe Gary Meadors find Bob a good home within his group.

[Johnny Horsepower]

[ QUOTE ]
Bob...what is preventing you from starting your own company and doing this on your own? You have certainly proven that you have the know how to organize and run a car show of top notch caliber...why not do it on your own and put those son of a bitches right out of business!!!

[/ QUOTE ]


http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/haha.gifI agree here!! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/haha.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif

John

[SS427]

Bob,
We are both very sad to hear this news. I see it time and time again and it just makes no sense. In the 25 years I have been showing cars both privately and professionally as well as some very large club displays I have never worked with anyone as easy and understanding nor as dedicated as you and Vicki. Assuming VF continues it will certainly never be the same.

Rest assured that your loyalty here will always be welcomed and you sYc family will always be there for you unlike your previous employer who obviously has no clue. Must we remind them that VF was almost gone when you came along and brought new life to it. I trust you will find something better out of all of this. We can only hope we get to share the enjoyment and working directly with you again.
Rick and Annie

[kwhizz]

I just finished sending a E-mail to the "Boy's" at the Top!!........... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/blush.gif

Ken http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gif

[COPO 70 RS/Z28]

Mr. Ashton,

If you put on your own show, If I can get there I sure will.

I have lived in Chicago forever and have definitely noticed the substantial improvement in the show over the years!!

Just keep your head up and remember when one door closes another always opens.

Ill be there!

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

[Salvatore]

[ QUOTE ]
I just finished sending a E-mail to the "Boy's" at the Top!!........... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/blush.gif

Ken http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gif

[/ QUOTE ]me too Ken! This is http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/bs.gif

[bashton]

The outpouring of support and kind words is truly, well...incredible. I thank you all for this, as I can use the moral support right now.

I will keep my eyes and ears open to new opportunities and if anyone hears of something, please keep me in mind.

BA

[Schonyenko2]

[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
I just finished sending a E-mail to the "Boy's" at the Top!!........... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/blush.gif

Ken http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gif

[/ QUOTE ]me too Ken! This is http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/bs.gif

[/ QUOTE ]

Me three. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/mad.gif

[Kim_Howie]

That was my last CVF screwum!! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/bs.gif

[L72COPO]

Bob, as one who has been in the same situation I can really understand how this affects you.

We wish you all the best in whatever you decide to do.

Don and Judi

[ORIGLS6]

I'd like to say I'm stunned, but quite honestly decisions like these are becoming more and more common. We lose a number of good, quality people every year while the useless lazy garbage seems to hang on. Work ethics and dedication mean nothing to the corporate world.

I know it's little comfort at this time Bob but you have to know ALL the sentiments and well wishes you've received here, and other notes as well, truly come from the heart. You're not only one whale of a promoter but a true enthusiast and a friend to us. You've made us feel welcome, held our hands, fielded our 'gripes' both small and large, and done it all with a smile.
Bob and Vicki Ashton are the class of the field. This makes me angry. I'll send a long note to Championship Auto Shows but I can't do it today. I need to cool down some.

[sYc]

Email sent.

[rnlz28]

email sent also.
Saddened by the news & we are behind you Bob & Vicki.
We have always enjoyed bringing Helen Gibbs Nova to the show.

[wheelhop]

email sent also.

[rare1]

http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gifEmail sent also & it was a nice one! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/hmmm.gif

[DarrenX33]

Email sent!

Like Sammy said, if Fall 08 was Bob's last Vettefest. I am honored that I was able to have a part in it. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif

[jeff morocco]

[ QUOTE ]
Email sent!

Like Sammy said, if Fall 08 was Bob's last Vettefest. I am honored that I was able to have a part in it. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif

[/ QUOTE ]

same here Darren......glad i was part of it...... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif

i sent an email as well.............................

i just heard of news that Bob Ashton was "let go" by Championship Autoshows. i think that was a HUGE mistake !! i used to bring my cars in the late 80's and vowed that i would never bring a car again to the Vettefest or World Of Wheels. it was run by complete idiots and it was the same cars every year so i stopped going. i have gone to the last 6 shows and can say that the cars that have been brought are nothing but amazing. Bob had asked me to bring my cars to the past fall show and i was very hesitant but he assured me that the show has changed in every aspect. i didnt bring one car, i brought 3 cars. not to mention the family and friends that heard that our cars were going to be there and paid the admission to get in. i can truly say that it was the best show i have ever entered. from the numerous emails and updates to the show itself. it was just as Bob had promised. i have gotten my boys involved with cars and not only did they have fun, Bob made them feel like one of the big boys. that speaks volumes in itself about Bob. after all, the kids that are growing up now are the ones that will be restoring / racing and showing these cars in the future. we all spend tons of time and money on these cars , not only for our own satisfaction but for EVERYONE to see and enjoy. Bob is the man responsible for getting these cars together for just that. there were over 100 cars that my club brought to Vettefest this past fall and all made possible by Bob and Vicki. they were not your average street cars either. they were the most sought after cars in the world, from Yenko's , Copo's, Baldwin Motion, to early racecars with great history. not to mention, 2 special showcases with hi horsepower Novas and probably the best Z/28 display ever assembled under one roof !! again, all made possible by Bob and Vicki. i know that this will not change anything, but i know for sure that i will never participate / attend another show put on by Championship Autoshows without Bob and Vicki. they were the show. good luck
sincerely, jeff morocco

[DarrenX33]

I posted the link on NastyZ28 and Camaros.net as I know that there are many members there who have enjoyed the show that Bob has put on..

[ORIGLS6]

E-mail sent. I hope they get the message.

[COPO 70 RS/Z28]

[ QUOTE ]
E-mail sent. I hope they get the message.

[/ QUOTE ]


Ditto !!

[ian ashton]

Hi all,

I'm Bob's son, Ian. Its really awesome to see the support from you guys - Whoever said that my dad ran CVF (and all of of his shows) as if they were his own hit the nail right on the head. 7 days a week, day or night my dad poured his heart in to every event he ran, and from the shows that I was able to attend it was a definate tangable improvement. Even in events where the (B.S.) politics damn near prohibited the events success (see Chicago WoW) he still perservered and put in his all.

It's just not worth it to bad mouth C.A.S.I. - as much as I'd like to. This is just the tip of the iceberg with them. The only phrase I have to describe the way things opperate with them is "asleep at the wheel"

[CC Rider]

Thanks for chiming in Ian. The internet is amazing sometimes.

I've never met your dad and have never attended one of his shows, but after reading all of these posts, I wish I had!


[ QUOTE ]
Hi all,

I'm Bob's son, Ian. Its really awesome to see the support from you guys - Whoever said that my dad ran CVF (and all of of his shows) as if they were his own hit the nail right on the head. 7 days a week, day or night my dad poured his heart in to every event he ran, and from the shows that I was able to attend it was a definate tangable improvement. Even in events where the (B.S.) politics damn near prohibited the events success (see Chicago WoW) he still perservered and put in his all.

It's just not worth it to bad mouth C.A.S.I. - as much as I'd like to. This is just the tip of the iceberg with them. The only phrase I have to describe the way things opperate with them is "asleep at the wheel"

[/ QUOTE ]

[bkhpah]

I'll make this VERY simple, Bob Ashton is VF. SCW showcased the Novas this year, but is was Bob who made it work. I pitched the idea, and he ran with it. VF has made a HUGE mistake dropping the ball on this show. VF is off of our "to do list" as of right now. And trust me on this one, the entire East Coast sYc membership will never again travel to the Chicago VF. I would imagine in sYc numbers alone, that would effect @100 cars....Fill that gap with interesting cars bean counters..BKH.. http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbsdown.gif

[KENNY_PASCOE]

WHAT HE SAID X 2 ... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/bs.gif KP

[Salvatore]

I say we should boycott the VF show. Me and Benny will have to hit the other shows on the circuit! As Benny's moto has become, "Have cars, will travel." http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif

[ORIGLS6]

If what I'm hearing is correct there will be no VF to boycott.

[Mr70]

That's what I'm hearing too Dennis,although it hasn't been "officially" verified yet.
Thus the reason for not needing Bobs services anymore.
We all know how accomadating he is,and what a phenomenal job he does at whatever he chooses to do,so it couldn't be anything else.
Cutting the show loose is the only reason I could believe,which in itself is a mistake.
Bob Ashton has always been & always will be the "Vettefest" guy" in my book.


...email sent.

[quick-bowtie]

Lets make our own Vette Fest.. CHEVROLET HIGH PERFORMANCE FEST.. Those Civic Centers arent that expensive to rent, Bob knows the business etc.. Lets all put some money behind Bob and let them see what a mistake they made.

[Xplantdad]

[ QUOTE ]
Lets make our own Vette Fest.. CHEVROLET HIGH PERFORMANCE FEST.. Those Civic Centers arent that expensive to rent, Bob knows the business etc.. Lets all put some money behind Bob and let them see what a mistake they made.

[/ QUOTE ]

Sounds like a great idea Andy! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

[ORIGLS6]

That would be one helluva project but If Bob decided to take it on I'd support him in any way possible.

[CamarosRus]

In all reality, the ACA Camaro Nationals at Carlisle is the ONLY
Nat'l Camaro show annually. Nasty Z28 supports it in a big way.....and Camaros.net also.

Vette Fest has become a mid west winter alternative.

Depending upon the date, location and venue, I have to think that these two biggest Camaro web sites should would support a NEW ALL Chevy car show.

[WILMASBOYL78]

I think we should have the all new "Chevy High Performance Fest" in Jamaica http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif that way we know Tibor will be able to attend http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

..too much time http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gif

[Salvatore]

We are not worried about Ken attending these shows. He is "always" supporting these shows all over the country. Its YOU that seldom shows up at these events! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smirk.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/haha.gif

[kwhizz]

[ QUOTE ]
We are not worried about Ken attending these shows. He is "always" supporting these shows all over the country. Its YOU that seldom shows up at these events! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smirk.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/haha.gif

[/ QUOTE ]


"Ouch!!!" cried Williams as he is Kicked in the "Nutz".....

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

[Xplantdad]

[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
We are not worried about Ken attending these shows. He is "always" supporting these shows all over the country. Its YOU that seldom shows up at these events! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smirk.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/haha.gif

[/ QUOTE ]


"Ouch!!!" cried Williams as he is Kicked in the "Nutz".....

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

[/ QUOTE ]

Hence the "Where's Wilmasboy"? videos... http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif

[WILMASBOYL78]

Hey...I'm already a member of that club http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/beers.gif

http://www.yenko.net/attachments/384624-kickedinthenuts-big.gif

[68COPO]

"STUPID IS THAT STUPID DOES"! We're with you Bob! I think there is an opportunity here!

[bashton]

I believe that opportunity just may be knocking.

Stay tuned sYc Family...

BA

[Xplantdad]

Good deal Bob!!!

[ORIGLS6]

[ QUOTE ]
I believe that opportunity just may be knocking.

Stay tuned sYc Family...

BA

[/ QUOTE ]

We're keepin our fingers crossed for you Bob! http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggthumpup.gif http://www.yenko.net/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/flag.gif

[Tommy_Mathison]

[ QUOTE ]
I believe that opportunity just may be knocking.

Stay tuned sYc Family...

BA

[/ QUOTE ]

Taking care of business as usual! If there's one family that can get it done, it's SYC & BA.

[pSYCo]

.....after twenty-plus years, I am no longer associated with CVF......when BA puts a show together, I WILL BE THERE TO HELP !.....