Re: Packard's 125th Anniversary Year

Posted by John Harley On 2024/1/10 21:34:41

Friends


I was going to write something in the thread about the value of club dues, but this covers the same ground .

I was President of the late lamented Eastern Packard Club during the run up to the Packard Centennial , and then again two years after. The City of Warren was planning a centennial celebration in conjunction with the opening of the museum. About two years before the date, upon inquiry , it became apparent the city fathers might need a lot of direction and help.

George Hamlin, of the PAC took the reins .He sent letters out for help. People stood up. I was on the distribution list of the bulletins he sent out about the progress . I wish now that I had saved them. It was a lot of work with the attendant frustration.

The intent was to invite all Packard organizations to have concurrent meets during the week. The EPC ran two tents of speakers on Monday, and organized the final dinner. These was actually entirely organized by the late Melva Macentee, who should remembered for heroic efforts, especially when a banquet tent as blown over during the meal.

As these things happen, the good intentions and hard work of the PAC was interpreted by some as keeping other organizations out. This caused me to be involved in a few surreal episodes.

The older clubs like the PAC, and CCCA for example, get a lot of guidance from what my father called "curbstone senators". This also applies to some of our legacy vendors. These people kept the cars alive for us long ago when they were worthless and candidates for recycling . They also planned a lot of large events. They deserve our thanks and support .

For various reasons endeavors these things are happening less often. The clubs and vendors depend on us to keep them going. Moreover, one can make lifelong friends.

Best Wishes for the New Year


John Harley