Why do I belong to a car club? (I actually belong to five at the moment.) It has its disadvantages. There are dues to pay. Meetings to attend. Activities for which one is “volunteered.” Internal squabbles to irritate one’s nerves. I admit that there are times when some of these rear their ugly heads and make me think twice about my commitment. However, like many relationships, the pros can, and do, outweigh the cons. There are the events spent with like-minded people. The camaraderie. The availability of technical help. The feelings of accomplishment. The NJ Region of the AACA (Antique Automobile Club of America) had been a regular part of my life for over fifteen years, and overall, it’s been a great ride.

In addition to its monthly meetings, the Region has an annual banquet, held every January. Two major business items are on the agenda: the swearing in of our new officers (President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Membership Secretary), and the awarding of various trophies, certificates, and similar awards. Our 2026 banquet was held this past Sunday, January 4, at The Chandelier at Flanders Valley, a restaurant/catering hall that has been hosting us on a regular basis. A crowd of perhaps 70-80 members and guests enjoyed cocktails, appetizers, dinner, and dessert for a reduced price (the Region covered a percentage of the cost). Awards were handed out based on a member’s level of participation. For example, attending an activity results in earning points, and the top twelve earners are given a brass plaque.

Other awards are up to the discretion of a Board member or committee chairperson. Dick Bettle, who is editor-in-chief of The Road Map, our Region’s monthly newsletter, selects a person each year that he feels has made the largest contribution to the newsletter. I’m proud to say that for 2025, Dick chose me, because of my monthly column, “Rich’s Ramblings,” which I’ve been submitting to him for the past five plus years. I was given a trophy, and I was truly honored.

More importantly: the conclusion of awards meant that we could enjoy dessert and coffee! Seriously, I do enjoy my time with this bunch, even if I am one of the only members without an American car. (My Alfa has won its share of AACA trophies as well.) I wasn’t sure how to end this post, so, for the first time, and maybe the last time, I asked AI to write me a summary, and here it is:

Joining a classic car club can significantly enhance your enjoyment and understanding of vintage automobiles, while providing access to a vibrant community and valuable resources. However, it’s important to weigh the associated costs, commitments, and potential drawbacks to ensure the club aligns with your interests and lifestyle.

 

Entire blog post content copyright © 2026 Richard A. Reina. Text and photos may not be copied or reproduced without express written permission.