I wouldn't want to say "Snow Birds" but our most distant members, Mary and Richard James of
Frederickstown, Ohio attended. Steve and Lark James of Elkton, Florida also drove, most of the way in the rain. Super membership support, Thank you both for attending.
The Dinner Meeting opened recognizing Karel and Joe Daniel, our 1st new members of 2010--WELCOME ! Karel and Joe come to us from the South Georgia Chapter where they have been active members for many years. Joe's first suggestion is that we should consider hosting a State or SouthEastern Zone Meet jointly with the South Georgia Chapter.
Wow, are we in for growth and more involvement ? Great idea Joe. We have invited the So. Ga. Chapter (and they have accepted) to join us at our Annual Picnic at Anastasia State Park this April. We can discuss this more then and see where it goes. I have attended three Georgia State Meets and they do an outstanding job. It would be a pleasure and fun doing a joint function.
Treasurer Larry Bryanton gave the financial report after our annual dues were collected. All 28 members rejoined for another year of picnics, Studebaker news and activities and good fellowship. Larry also offered the Invocation. This was our first meeting without Nollie and Janelle Hinton. In his Honor, we offered a moment of silence and prayer for Janelle. They were greatly missed.
Conversations were briefly interrupted while giving Steve (our waiter) orders for the Special Holiday meals. After most were taken Door Prizes were awarded by ticket drawing. Collector items, 2 pocket match boxes featuring 1958 Studebaker Hawks, a Gold "Studebaker" iron-on script and 2 treasure boxes of Clemmit Studebaker's lost gold nuggets with shovel were awarded the lucky winners. Herb Hildebrand won the "Studebaker" gold iron-on script and would you guess ? He had just ordered one from Studebaker International. (Maybe he'll give one to Cindy) The last and most treasured collectable (memorabilia item) was won by new members Karel and Joe Daniel. A coin, which Larry Bryanton had minted, (very limited number) recognizing our 2002 Southeastern Zone Meet.
Tom and Rosemarie Johnson arrived a few minutes too late to be seated at the main table and were seated at a window directly overlooking the parking lot. They became our "Weather Announcers" as it continued to rain for the next two hours. This makes the 3rd time Tom & Rosemarie have had a separate table. Our next meeting, Valentines Day recognition we will reserve two chairs at table center so they can join in the conversations. (WE PROMISE)
O'Charley's super waiter "Steve" handled our table of 28 proficiently. We all received our meals as ordered and hot.
Another great experience at O'Charley's. CUDO's to O'Charley's.
The Meeting closed with Big Hugs and Best wishes for a Happy Holiday season. ("Yes, it is still raining" was the final report from Tom and Rosemarie.
An announcement from member Ed Raber. Ed's 1964 Police Cruiser, Marshall Pursuit has been down for a number of weeks with a failed power steering pump. Ed has located a restoration/repair facility which was successful in rebuilding this hard to find item. Apparently Studebaker International did not have one on hand. Ed has had other work done at this shop and would like to recommend them. They do complete restorations as well as mechanical/electrical repairs. I will list them on our "LINKS" web page. Should you use their service please let me know your experience.

Our Treasurer, Larry Bryanton Mary & Richard James Karel & Joel Daniel.

Lark & Steve James Sue & Ed Raber Cindy & Herb Hilderbrand

.
Carol & Ken Lawson Debra Hovey & Ben Rew Bernie & Nick Klepac
Rosemarie & Tom Johnson Buck Buchanan & Chip Wilkins Trish and Bob Edwards.
Our weather reporters, Rosemarie and Tom Johnson

gave their final report as we were leaving
"RAIN"
Sorry, no pictures of wet Studebakers as they scurried out of the parking lot.
LAST OUTING OF 2009
We opened our last out door event with
Chip entertaining while Smoking the Grill.
All that wild music didn't seem to bother Rick Wyman hunting for a hot dog. Karel, Shirley, Trish and Joel ignored Chip and dove in preparing our banquet. Later on, Joel took over the grill but was relieved because Trish caught him "squishing" the hamburgers (YUK) Poor Joel, he's been grilling for years and now moving to Florida has to adjust to real Southern grilling. Did I mention Joel and Karel Daniel are now members of our Chapter ? Joel and Karel moved from Georgia to the Orange Park area, a suburb of Jacksonville. Joel and Karel were active members in the South Georgia Chapter and we look forward to having them with us. Couldn't catch them eating together but did get them with their beautiful, Red '87 Avanti convertible.

After getting the fire going Shirley offered her grilling expertise to Chip and Rick.

Shirley watched over Rick then Trish became guardian. Poor guys, didn't have a chance.

Wasn't long before hot dogs and hamburgers were
ready, Karel, Shirley and Trish gave their approval after tasting.

After Rick gave the invocation

TIME TO EAT
Robbie helped Music Man Chef Chip fill his plate and even carried it to him. Now thats sump'in special.

Even Bob got a plate
Rick and Carol found "A spot in the Sun" and enjoyed their grilled burgers.

Shirley and Karel preparing the line

After all the work Trish finally gets to fix her plate.

The girls get their plates and finally get to relax.

Carol "really" getting into that hamburger while Rick walks his off. Looks like Chip's going for the nap.

Joel and Roy converse about Studebaker history
While all this is going on Trish tests the "warm" Brownies.
Okay ! Time for seconds
Looks like Roy has had enough----NO SECONDS he says.

Karel enjoys conversation with Shirley & Trish.
We looked and looked for Jean and Terry Pope but couldn't find them. They had brought their beloved dog and we were advised no dogs were allowed in the park. Rather than leave their dog alone in the car, they left without eating. (1957 Golden Hawk)

Great couple.
Karel, Shirley and Trish found the desserts. Brownies were freshly made and still warm, a lemon cream (glazed) cake almost disappeared before I found it. Chocolate cake and halloween cookies and so much more topped off the meal. The women, as usual, over did it and brought too much. All low calorie I'm told.
After eating, news of Studebaker Activities was covered. Brochures for the 32nd Annual Florida State Meet at Deland Fl. were passed out. As of today we only know of one couple that will be attending from our Chapter. Joel and Karel Daniel have reservations. Please contact me if you plan on going, traveling together would be safer.
The South Georgia Chapter has been contacted and invited to join us at Saint Augustine, Anastasia State Park next May, our first outing for 2010. Neil Thorton of their chapter assure me if gas prices are reasonable we can expect to see a good number joining us. Let's save up our pennies and help them out. Maybe we can contribute to their return trip. We look forward to enjoying their company.
Received some great pictures from member Robbie. Didn't know she was out there with her trusty camera.
First, she got a great picture of the
"Smok'in Grill" by Chip

(Nice shot Robbie)
And, she caught Terry Pope (with dark hat on)eating a hamburger with Roy, Chuck and myself all at the same table. I thought he and Jean left with their dog before eating. Great that they got to eat some of the food they brought. Maybe Jean will show up in later photo's.
About time to go. Joel and Bob roll up our Chapter Banner and put it away until next years first picnic in May, at Anastasia St. Park, St. Augustine. Be sure to plan on being there with our guests from the South Georgia Chapter.

Going to the parking lot we find Roy and Ken discussing Roy and Shirley's beautiful '55 Speedster

And, Joel & Karel's '88 Avanti

Ken's '56 Champ Pick up is always a pleasure to see

And, Chip and Robbies "Rat Rod" Cruiser

That's it for now. A couple of pictures to add later.

Our dinner meeting opened with the introduction of our newest AND youngest members. Michelle and Joe Dearing and their beautiful children, Pepe, 3 years old

and Jude, born August 6,'09 at 8:31 AM.

Michelle's Mother and Brother and his wife also joined us to support busy Mom. Michelle took time away from Jude to take pictures throughout the evening, Great Family. We're Happy to have them on-board.
Our youngest member is just
16 days old and our oldest is
78 years, what a generation gap. But, I'm certain Joe and Michelle will make Studebaker enthusiasts out of both boys, someday they will inherit their parents beautiful '62 Lark.
Unfortunately a surprise guest speaker Mr. Matthew Burwelle wasn't able to make the meeting. Be certain to read Matthew's bi-monthly articles in SDC's, Turning Wheels monthly magazine. "Tailgating with Matthew" is in the August issue, page 36 thru 38, a good read. The next article will be in October's issue.
STUDERBAKER NEWS
Plan on attending the
32nd FLORIDA STATE MEET,October 30th through November 1, 2009. This will be a memorable event. The "HALLOWEEN" weekend meet will include costumed guests for the banquet. Will there be a propeller-head mounted bulletnose costume ? Only the shadow knows. Be sure to attend this gala event for lots of fun. Registration forms were passed out but e-mail me if you need another. Deland Florida is only 200 miles from Jacksonville. If you like I will organize those going and we can cruise together for safety.
Interested in copies of original advertisements for your car or truck ? Member Richard James forwarded this Website address; www.mclellansautomotive.com . Check it out, you order ad's by make, year and model. Some pretty coool stuff available. (Thanks, Richard)
Member Ken Lawson brought the May '09 issue of Hemmings Classic Car magazine which featured information on Studebakers. A nice article on early Larks and Studebaker Loss and Legacy. Studebaker's are gaining in popularity in this magazine, watch for articles and parts. (Thanks for the heads up Ken)
Looking for parts ? Be sure to check out and keep handy page 57 of the September '09 issue of "Turning Wheels". "Studebaker West" has purchased a number of parts suppliers and consolidated them, including Steven Allen's of Gainsville, Fl. Studebaker West is most likely the largest parts supplier of NOS and used parts available. I'd give you their address but I cut it out and gave it to a member, sorry about that.
Member Steve James provided an update concerning Mr. Lionel Stone, a long time Studebaker parts supplier and enthusiast. Lionel and his wife were traveling cross country to attend the SDC National Meet in Cedar Rapids, Iowa when they were involved in a major accident. Lionel lost his wife and is only now beginning to regain his health. Lionel ask that new orders be held for a short time until he can get back to running his business once again. Hopefully by November, orders will begin shipping again. If your looking for parts be sure to contact Lionel, he is a true Studebaker man. His ads can be found in "Turning Wheels" parts section.
Northeast Florida Chapter Shirts and Logo's
"Hometown Threads", located in SuperWalmart, 8808 Beach Blvd. completed our order of 3 shirts in time for display at our dinner meeting. My favorite is the "Light Weight Blend", Port Authority-Easy Care, Soil Resistant (protects from stains), 60/40 - Cotton/Polyester - Dupont Teflon shirt. I'm wearing it in the photo's. This shirt has a pocket, button-down collar and embroidered Chapter Logo & Name. Total:(tax included) $34.44. We furnished 2 other pullovers for Logo and Name at a price of $13.00 each, you pick the colors and Font style. "Hometown Threads" has our artwork on their computer so their ready to go. Simply ask for "Studebaker of Northeast Florida". They also do hats and silk screen printing. You can reach them at 904-646-4004 or visit their store in WalMart.
Dinner Fund Raiser
Pepe Dearing got busy with drawing numbers to see who would win the packaged CD's of the top twenty songs from '56 '57 and '58. These are all performed by the original artists and the winner was:
Ken and Carol Lawson.
The second set was won by: Herb and Cindy Hildebrand and the 3rd set was purchased by Nollie Hinton. (He gave up and bought the last set).
The 1953 Studebaker, Starliner 1:18 scale model was won by: Who other than: Ken and Carol Lawson. (Herb really wanted this. I think Cindy will go to Sams Club and buy him one.)
The "Studebaker Wheel" logo lapel pins finally arrived. Members who didn't get one before were presented their pins. See the September issue of "Turning Wheels", page 18. This "Wheel Logo" appears directly over the "Harness and Buggy" advertisement painted on the building circa 1913. It looks like this logo has been around quite awhile.
After dining and lots of conversation we retired to the parking lot for more conversation and pictures. Our cars, all cleaned by the rain were shining in the late evening sun.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17 at GREEN COVE SPRINGS, SPRING PARK--ACROSS FROM THE POLICE STATION. I have reserved the large picnic shelter from 10AM to 3PM. This is the same area/shelter we have used before--close to the water and provides a gentle breeze off the St. John's. Make it a family day, this is a great Park. Visit their Website at: www.greencovesprings.com and click on Parks. Read and see pictures of "Spring Park". Be sure to bring a camera for pictures of the spring, spring fed pool, pier and creek to the St. John's.
Please sign up ASAP so we can prepare. Your Chapter is furnishing Meats(Hamburgers & Hot Dogs) Buns, Potato
Chips, Condiments, Soda's and Ice, Plates & Plastic ware, Charcoal etc. Please bring a side dish or dessert. Potato Salad, Baked Beans, Jello, Pies, Cakes. Tell me what you plan on providing so we wont duplicate.
Now for some pictures of those that attended O'Charley's Dinner Meeting;
Meet Joe, Michelle, Pepe and new baby Jude

Michelle's Mom,Mrs. Noemi Parra

Michelle's brother
Patrick Dearing and girl friend Tia Lemming.

How about one more, Dad feeding baby Jude
After the invocation by our Chapter founder Nollie Hinton, making our meal selection from the extensive menu began.
Pictures of the meals on the menu cover made it hard to decide, they all looked so appetizing.

Shirley Hastings had to stand to place her order while Buck Buchanan and others read on. Trish took this opportunity to snap a few pictures and got caught by Michelle and her roving camera.

Ken & Carol Lawson and Herb & Cindy Hildebrand talk while waiting.
Bernie Klepac, Steve Hinton and Nollie Hinton ponder over menu items. All looked soooooo good.
Jean and Terry Pope talk Studebaker vs Avanti with Steve James. 
.

Trish & Ben Rew seem amused and amazed at Chip's magic trick. Did it work Chip ?
Robbie and Chip are steady attendees at all our functions and always have fun.

Buck Buchanan and Ben Rew have been Studebaker enthusiasts for many years.
Between the two, they have restored and owned many Studebakers and they enjoy driving their restorations as daily drivers.
Trish Edwards, Shirley Hastings and Janelle Hinton conversing.

Steve Hinton and Nollie Hinton discuss when the 2 '56 Golden Hawks they just purchased will be ready for E-Bay parts
orders. They decided to part these two out, lots of good parts available be sure ti check with Nollie if you need something.
Chip Wilkins, and his son (in the back ground) and Buck Buchanan listen intently to the news of coming Studebaker events and Ken Lawson's information on "Hemmings Classic Car magazine. They are always interested in new old parts(NOS)sources.

Trish & Ryan Wilkins seldom miss a meeting.(Ryan, that beards getting bigger)
Jean and Terry Pope have been regulars and always drive their '57 Golden Hawk. Even in the rain it looks great.
We'll see some pictures of it in the lot after the rain. (I thing Terry went out and dried it off)
Steve and Lark James came all the way from Elkton, Florida in Lark's Smart Car. The threatening weather was just too much to chance in their beautiful Pearl white Avanti. Anyway, they got great gas mileage.
Cindy and Herb Hildebrand, long time supporters of our Chapter. Herb is always the first to buy tickets for the 50/50, CD's, Model Studebakers or anything else we bring for a fund raiser. And, to top that off he's a great BBQ Chef. You can bet you'll see them at the Green Cove Springs
picnic and Herb will be at a grill. Cindy likes to help Trish setting things up at our picnics and it's really appreciated, Cindy. I think Herb also plays Santa Claus around Christmas time.
You may not recognize Trish, she got her hair cut really short. 
I'm sure you remember Bernie Klepac ?
She is our "Events" Planner and roving photographer. I know she's married to a guy named Nick but we don't see too much of him. He's alway working, if you call Diving in Florida's beautiful waters working. Anyway, I'm sure Nick will be with us at the picnic---Won't he Bernie ?
I think that's about everybody that attended and I want to say
"THANK YOU" all for coming. Your attendance
is needed and greatly appreciated. Now, let's all make it to the Picnic, October 17th, 10AM to 3PM at Green Cove Springs,
Spring Park. The Large Picnic Shelter is reserved just for you.
After the rain ended Michelle gave up holding "Jude" just long enough to get some pictures. Some were also provided by Ken and Carol Lawson and Trish. Enjoy ! But first, How about one more of baby Jude and Dad.

A few pictures of the Studebakers and Avanti's that brought our members to this fantastic Meet at O'Charley's.
Although Terry backed their '57 Golden Hawk into the parking spot the fins really are what we admire
about these models.
A new project for Herb but low mileage and excellent care in its history this car will be show condition in a short time.

 '
Bernie's trusty Lark is used as her daily driver. So far Nick's doing a great job on keeping it up. Sorry, he was too tired to make this dinner meeting but maybe she will let him come to the picnic in Green Cove Springs.
Buck's still polishing this Avanti but swears it's for sale. I don't think he wants to give up his daily driver just yet. Hey, these will never qualify for the "Clunkers" program. Great ride and good gas mileage even in
1974. Guess they should have continued making these. No "Rice Bomb" here, great styling.
Ben's Avanti, a work in progress was a surprise to see at O'Charley's. Thought for sure he would drive the "Skytop". Ben forgot to sign up so we didn't know what he would drive. Luck had it, O'Charley's didn't run out of food. He and Buck make a good couple, arms folded and intent listening.( A little distortion on Pic. 1.)
Nollie and Janelle drove in with the top down BUT couldn't go to eat without putting it up. That wind blown
look just didn't appear on them, must be the hair spray. (I swear that cars changes color) Hey! Nollie's looking pretty good after all the health problems and still working. He and Steve Hinton are disassembling two 1956 Golden Hawks and selling parts on Ebay. Nollie has a number of other Studebaker parts (i.e. Engines, Transmissions, Pwr. Steering units, some body panels and S.S side moldings for other Studebaker models. Give him a call before you go hunting.
Michelle, Joe, "Pepe" and "Jude" Dearing found this Lark in a garage, owned by a Merchant Marine here in Jacksonville. And, would you believe, he was looking for a buyer. Call this "Your Lucky Day" guys. The Dearing family
are new to the Jacksonville area. With a new Studebaker and a new baby (Jude-born Aug. 6, '09 they are starting off the year in great style. We look forward to their company at our Meets.
How about this for dedication. Members Steve and Lark James drove from Elkton, Florida for our quarterly dinner meeting. And, did I tell you there was a 70% chance of rain ? Steve and his Father, Member Richard James of Fredericktown, Ohio will travel great distances to support Studebaker or Avanti activities. This time they did decide to keep their pearl-white Avanti dry and drove Lark's Smart car instead. Good choice under the circumstances.

CHOMP CHOMP, YEAH! I'm gonna get ya.
Chip and Robbie keep surprising us with this Cruiser. Now it has "Paint". I think their "RAT" car (as Chip calls it) is changing into a show car. I think the hood ornament has changed too. Where's that white RAT Chip? Maybe Robbie had something to say about all this. Did ya notice those "FUZZY DICE" hanging from the rear view mirror, CLASSY !
Trish WHAT ARE YOU DOING---LEANING ON THE CAR ? O Well, guess I better join her. (lean lightly will ya ?)
Trish works hard at all our Meets and did you notice the new hair cut? Maybe I'll let her drive "STU" home it's not raining now. (She snaps the clutch and spins the tires--Hot Rod, speed shifts TOO.

Back to the 50's.
"AND LAST" PLANNING PROJECTION
OPENING OF 2010, ANNUAL PICNIC AT ANASTASIA STATE PARK, ST. AUGUSTINE, FL.
A postive vote was received on opening next year with inviting our neighboring Chapter to our annual picnic. Neil Thorton, of Hazelhurst Georgia, past president of the "South Georgia Chapter of SDC" has been contacted. We hope they will accept our invitation to join us at Anastasia State Park, in May of 2010 to celebrate the opening of another year of Studebakering. The invitation has been sent and we're waiting their reply. Last year Nollie and Janelle Hinton, Ben Rew and I attended the Ga. State Meet, hosted by this Chapter at Albany, Ga., we each brought home a trophy. Do I have to tell you that they put on an excellent Meet ? The Chapter's women prepared breakfast each morning and even a lunch. The Hospitality Room was never unattended with coffee, juices, sweet rolls, cakes and goodies galore. (NO or LOW calorie/sugar I'm sure) Everything was "home made". An outstanding 2 1/2 day event.
July 4th "Drive Your Studebaker Day" & Photo Shoot.
Joe and Michelle Dearing, with son Pepe were at Krystal's with a 1962 Lark we had not seen before. They are now our newest members "WELCOME ABOARD". (Joe is in the Navy while Michelle runs her Wedding Photography business and plays Mom to Pepe AND is expecting (Jude) at any moment--busy Mom. Be certain to go to our "LINKS" page and click on the link to Michelle's web page or send her an E-Mail.
Nollie and Janelle Hinton brought their beautiful 2004 Avanti convertible. Hey, with the top down(and glass rolled up) it was great, who needs AC ?
Herb and Cindy Hildebrand drove their newly acquired 1962 Lark. Herb can't wait to start the restoration on this low mileage, I believe he said "one owner" car. The owners manual was still in the glove box.
Chip Wilkins and Robbie drove their "Work In-progress" 1966 Lark, Commander. He calls it "Rat Car" No, that isn't a real Rat he's holding but the hood ornament
might be a real grenade. (Don't OPEN the hood)
Steve and Debra Hinton brought their boys Ben and Bradly in Nollie Hinton's 1956 Transtar pickup. It's hard to beat a Pick-Up Man. This is the first time we've seen this treasure on the road. Steve's family really enjoyed showing this off at Krystal's later.

We caught Bradly watching the ducks in the pond. He was having a good time.
Bob and Trish took their pictures a few days earlier to see what weeds might have to be removed, not too many.
We scoped out the place and decided it was almost as good as Friendship Park. In October, when it's cooler we'll schedule another shoot at Friendship Park. Be sure to join us for the next shoot.
After the photo shoot we all caravaned to Krystal's on Merrill Road. We were lucky and got 5 parking spaces up front, just as you turn in. After cooling off inside and enjoying Krystal Burgers and cold drinks we toured the parking lot full of antique and special interest cars. All in all, I think there was at least 35 jewels. And, would you believe, we even found a
"Studebaker", one we haven't seen before. Naturally, we hunted down the owners who had recently moved to Jacksonville. They are now our Chapters newest members.
Welcome, Michelle and Joe Dearing. Their pride and joy, along with Pepe their son is a 1962 Studebaker Lark. The car was brought to Jacksonville by a Merchant Marine and stored for a short time and then put up for sale. More history on the car later. Interior and exterior are in excellent condition with a superb metallic paint job.

 : 
Well, that's about it for now. Check back later for more news and pictures.
MAY 2 '09 ANNUAL PICNIC
42 Members and special guests (Avanti Club of Florida) made this event a great success.
YES ! Spectacular, what a turnout. 42 Studebaker/Avanti owners and enthusiasts gathered once again at Anastasia State Park, St. Augustine to appreciate and admire their automobiles, enjoy conversing and sharing an excellent cookout.
0950 Hrs. Chip Wilkins and I hung the Club Banner
and began unloading cars of food and soda's under the direction of Master Chef Trish Edwards. Guests started arriving at 10:15 bringing more food and yummy desserts, all kinds of canopy covered chairs and lots of encouragement. Pre-made name tags were patted on blouses and shirts so new members and guests could introduce themselves. After some misspelling corrections were made all were correct--I think. (An apology for the misspelling--
we need to see you more often. It wasn't long before new friendships were formed and old acquaintances renewed.
6/16/09 Additional Photo's by Bernie Klepac posted.



Chapter members Lee & Susan Bruffett snapped these pictures--Thanks guys.
Nollie Hinton, our Chapter Founder is doing better and insisted on attending our annual picnic. Megan and Shannon Bruffett accompanied Nollie to the "fixins" helping to load his plate. He's a fighter for sure and as of today (5/28/09) back on the road in N.C. buying another tractor to restore.
Yep, we caught Steve James on the phone still organizing the cruise to Bob & Jinny's "The Cave" where their car collection is on display.

The parking lot filled with Avanti's and Studebakers, I think I counted 14 in all. If I missed one let me know. A
GRAND sight, the entire first line of the parking lot (12) spaces were all taken by Studebaker/Avanti products.

With hoods raised the men immediately gathered at each car offering advice and complementing originality and recognizing improvements to engines, engine compartments, interiors and exteriors. You would have thought this was a State Meet with judging to follow.




(Pictures compliments of member Herb Hildebrand)
TWO SMART CARS ? Members Steve and Lark James brought Lark's "Smart Car" along with the second "Smart Car" belonging to their guests Lynda & John Guarnieri. Is this a sign of the future ?
(Cute little things aren't they ?)
Around noon time, guests Jinny and Bob Quackenbush arrived in one of their many antique vehicles, a 1931 Ford Model A, convertible (Unrestored).

Later we would cruise to their home in St. Augustine and be given a guided tour through both their home and extensive automobile collection.
It seems all events are "Blessed" with at least one difficulity. After unpacking all the picnic foods and support items we discovered the drinking cup were no where to be found. Yep, they were on the list and even checked off "as loaded". Master Chef trish and member Sandra Nicholas headed out to find a Walmart, in St. Augustine ?. Grills were lit and manned by chef's Chip Wilkins and Herb Hildebrand

but needed the Master Chef to get them the meats. (Remember the "RULES TO BBQ" you just got in an e-mail ?. Anyway, a little delay just made everything taste that much better. The menu of foods prepared by members is too long to list but I just have to mention a few. Potato salads (two kinds), Cole Slaw, two recipes of baked beans, Bean Salad, Deviled Eggs,
Pasta Salad, and then the desserts, OOOOOO, SO GOOD !. Red Velvet Cherry Cake, Chocolate Brownies, Peach Cobbler, Sweet Potato Cake, Chocolate Chip Cookies and the list goes on. Did I forget BBQ Potato Chips ? Naturally we can't forget the "All Beef" hot dogs" and Sam's Sirloin Hamburgers. Oppps, getting hungry, better quit. Next year we will bring more 28 just wasn't enough.
After dining a very short meeting was held to make announcements of the coming Florida State Meet in Deland Florida, October 30th through November 1st.(Halloween Weekend) and the South East Zone Meet at Townsend TN. May 15-17. Headquarterd at the TALLY HO INN, Townsend TN.: (1-800 448-2465) Steve James provided a Registration form for the State Meet which has been e-mailed to all. If your planning on attending please let me know. I would like pictures and a report to publish. Could we do a "Cruise" to the State Meet ? Contact me.
I can't begin to
"THANK" the women enough for their support in making this picnic an outstanding annual event. I'm already looking forward to an early spring (May) next year. Anastasia State Park remains an excellent location for kicking off the new years activities. Green Cove Springs picnic area is a very close second.
On arriving at Jinny and Bob's home, and "THE CAVE" Steve and Lark James, who arranged the tour presented them with a hanging flower basket.

Jinny provided Ice Tea, Lemonade and pastries as we toured her home furnished with beautiful antiques. Bob gave us a tour through the automobile and extensive auto memorabilia collection giving facts and a little history on both. He also has a "Complaint" department just in case your not satisfied.

I don't think I'll be filing a complaint.
(Gee, after seeing their collection I noted--They don't own a "Studebaker". Maybe we can donate one to complete their collection.)
I took a few pictures but even with a flash they are a little dark. If your in the St. Augustine be sure to visit their home and car collection.

1939 Boat tail Speedster.

Famous Ford Edsel station wagon

1950 ? Buick

1951 Ford

1941 Cadillac
Those in attendance were:
Avanti Club of Florida MembersTom Pinnel, '88 Avanti Barbara & John Andras, '82 Avanti Cheryl & Carl Doughty, '91 Avanti convertible Steve & Lark James, '06 Avanti & '08 Smart Car. Sue & Don Baker, '81 Avanti Barbara & Larry Golub, '75 Avanti
NEFlorida Studebaker ClubSue & Ed Raber, '61 Pursuit Marshal Police Car (with siren) Bernie Klepac, '60 Lark Sandra & Don Nicholas, Brand X Robbie Waldon & Chip Wilkins, '66 Commander Shirley & Roy Hastings, '56 Golden Hawk Debra Hovey & Ben Rew, Avanti Bonnie Hayflick & Bill Kolar, '81 Avanti & '57 Golden Hawk Megan & Shannon Bruffett, '63 Avanti Steve & Lark James, '06 Avanti convertible & '08 Smart Car convertible Herb Hildebrand, 81 Avanti  'Susan & Lee Bruffett, '56 Power Hawk Nollie & Steve Hinton, '04 Avanti convertible Trish & Bob Edwards, '56 Golden Hawk.
Special GuestsJinny & Bob Quackenbush, '31 Model A Ford convertible Lynda & John Guarnieri '08 Smart Car. Rafel A. de le Torre, Brand X.