I do not ordinarily do this (take pot-shots at someone), but in this case I will make an exception. The individual who keeps commenting about cheating the classes (and Special Interest in particular), has proved himself to be the idiot I was beginning to think he was. This guy is so far beyond the pale that I have to believe he is mentally impaired. Consider his most recent post:
"If you think you can change the minds of hard headed Mainers then go for it, and good luck to ya!!!!Does this fire you all up because of your PT Cruiser? Can't understand why they don't have THEIR own class......Ask a hard headed Mainer that one!!!! "
This is almost funny, if it were not so pathetic. First, he insults Maine folks as people who cannot learn, or cannot change when change is needed. He insinuates that Mainers are all dishonest and want the cheating to continue. What a jerk. I am sure he is describing himself, but I know better than to think others are like him. The folks I meet at shows are great people, as a rule, and I like them.
And what is this childish drivel about my daughter's PT? It DOES have a class - but I guess this guy is just too ignorant to realize it. It can go in Special Interest, LEGITIMATELY. And it can go into 90's to Present (and usually does), when such a class is offered. If you want to see something with NO class, just look in the mirror, Bubba!
Look, pal, since you always take the coward's way and post anonymously, this is the only way I have to respond to you. And frankly, it is a waste of time, because you are obviously a narrow-minded, sick person in need of professional help. And you are obviously the cheater who is upset because HotKarz has thrown a spotlight on your antics. Only a cheater would protest so loudly against putting a stop to the cheating.
If you want to waste your time, and continue to prove to everyone what an idiot you are, feel free to keep posting. But I will likely just delete them, because I will not enter into a battle of wits with someone who is only half prepared.
You may think you are cute or something. But I would bet that 99% of the readers would think you are just an angry fruitcake. And since you seem to take exception to what is nationally accepted as class definitions, you obviously are ignorant and choose to remain so.
But the rest of us are not angry nuts. We like to have fun. And we know that any show that does not include cheats like you are much more fun and pleasant. So, you can do your part to make shows better - stay home!
Fair warning! The tide is beginning to turn. More and more people are refusing to vote for vehicles out of their class. Your days of trophy poaching and class jumping are coming to a close, fella! At Windham, there were better, nicer cars than ours in Special Interest. But like the judges said - if they didn't belong in the class, they didn't get the points. And they didn't! We took 1st. You are just pissed 'cuz you couldn't cheat your way to a trophy this time.
The shows will be improving. You can either help them improve, or get the Hell out of the way and stay home!
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Definitions
For the benefit of organizers and participants, the following definitions of many standard car classifications is copied from Wikipedia - the original sources are reliable, and referenced either in or below the article. This is the last section of the full article, which also describes classes for insurance and/or car rental purposes, which does not pertain to any discussion on HotKarz:
Car Show Class Definitions
A different classification system is used for purposes of differentiating vehicles in most car shows. While there is little doubt about the definition of classes that are self-described such as "Mustang" or "Firebird" or "4WD Truck", there is often confusion about the definition of classes that are not as readily understood. The following classes are often used in car shows across America - these definitions are determined either by state regulations, the National Street Rod Association, or have been gathered from other reliable sources:
Street Rod —A motor vehicle, or a reproduction thereof, with a model year of 1948 or older which has been materially altered or modified by the removal, addition or substitution of essential parts and with a gross weight or registered gross weight of not more than 9,000 pounds.
Classic Car —A motor vehicle, but not a reproduction thereof, at least 30 years old, not materially altered or modified by the removal, addition or substitution of essential parts except that such parts represent the original
Hot Rod - Any car rebuilt or modified for higher speed, faster acceleration, or a sportier look. Many automobiles may be called hot rods, including some used in drag racing. They may be composed of used or newly fabricated parts. Can be a kit car.
Custom Car - a factory-built vehicle that has been modified either to improve its performance, often by altering or replacing the engine and transmission, or it may be a personal design by the builder, making the car look unique and unlike any car that might have been factory built. Though distinct from hot rods there is debate among customizers and rodders as to where the line should be drawn. A Custom Car cannot be a kit car, as a kit car is not a factory-built vehicle that has been modified from the original configuration.
Antique — A motor vehicle, but not a reproduction thereof, at least 25 years old, which has been maintained in or restored to a condition which is substantially in conformity with manufacturer specifications and appearance.
Special Interest- a vehicle uniquely distinguishable from the usual, and/or designed for a particular purpose, such as a race car, military vehicle or bus, or built to a specific and unusual theme, either of which would generate interest because of its uniqueness or specialty function.
Kit Car - any vehicle that is created primarily from kit or prefabricated parts, and is a reproduction or replica. An original factory-built vehicle that utilizes prefabricated fiberglass body units to replace worn/damaged original parts is not a kit car.
Muscle Car - a high-performance automobile, built in the 1960's-1970's. The term principally refers to American, Australian and South African models and generally describes a 2-door rear-wheel drive mid-size with a large, powerful V8 engine and special trim, intended for maximum torque on the street or in drag racing competition. Normally was not built with comfort amenities of their counterparts.
Brass Era Car - beginning with the first horseless carriages, named for the brass fittings used for such things as lights and radiators. Starting with the first commercial automobiles of the 1890s to about 1918-19. Includes most Edwardian cars
Veteran Car - any motor vehicle built prior to 1905
Edwardian Car - any vehicle built from 1905 - 1918. Includes all brass era cars
Vintage Car - commonly defined as a car built between 1919 and 1930. The Classic Car Club of America prefers 1925 since it is the pre-classic car period.
Pre-War - beginning with the Great Depression in 1930 and ending after WWII, usually placed at 1948
See also
ACRISS Car Classification Code
Automobile
Car safety and road safety
Car body style
Three wheeled car
Truck classification
Vehicle size class
References
How are vehicle size classes defined? FuelEconomy.gov, part of the U.S. Department of Energy
CANADIAN ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ACT, 1999 Canada Gazette
VFACTS Motor Vehicle Classifications and Definitions Australian FCAI - Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries
Koch, Jeff. "The First Muscle Car: Older Than You" Hemmings Muscle Machines - October 1, 2004, retrieved on 2008-06-30.
The Merriam-Webster definition: "any of a group of American-made 2-door sports coupes with powerful engines designed for high-performance driving."car "muscle car." Merriam-Webster Online, retrieved on 2008-06-30.
"Muscle Car Definition" Muscle Car Club Muscle, undated, retrieved on 2008-06-30.
Sherman, Don. "Muscle Cars Now Worth Millions" The New York Times, June 4, 2006, retrieved on 2008-06-30.
Classic Muscle Cars Library, How Stuff Works, undated, retrieved on 2008-06-30.
"Muscle Car Definition" by Muscle Car Society, undated, retrieved on 2008-06-30.
Gunnell, John (2005). American Cars of The 1960s: A Decade of Diversity. Krause Publications, 47-50. ISBN 978-0896891319.
"Pony Car History" undated, retrieved on 2008-06-30.
Roy, Rex. "Car culture: A child's Pony Car education essential" The Detroit News, February 27, 2008, retrieved on 2008-06-30.
Car Show Class Definitions
A different classification system is used for purposes of differentiating vehicles in most car shows. While there is little doubt about the definition of classes that are self-described such as "Mustang" or "Firebird" or "4WD Truck", there is often confusion about the definition of classes that are not as readily understood. The following classes are often used in car shows across America - these definitions are determined either by state regulations, the National Street Rod Association, or have been gathered from other reliable sources:
Street Rod —A motor vehicle, or a reproduction thereof, with a model year of 1948 or older which has been materially altered or modified by the removal, addition or substitution of essential parts and with a gross weight or registered gross weight of not more than 9,000 pounds.
Classic Car —A motor vehicle, but not a reproduction thereof, at least 30 years old, not materially altered or modified by the removal, addition or substitution of essential parts except that such parts represent the original
Hot Rod - Any car rebuilt or modified for higher speed, faster acceleration, or a sportier look. Many automobiles may be called hot rods, including some used in drag racing. They may be composed of used or newly fabricated parts. Can be a kit car.
Custom Car - a factory-built vehicle that has been modified either to improve its performance, often by altering or replacing the engine and transmission, or it may be a personal design by the builder, making the car look unique and unlike any car that might have been factory built. Though distinct from hot rods there is debate among customizers and rodders as to where the line should be drawn. A Custom Car cannot be a kit car, as a kit car is not a factory-built vehicle that has been modified from the original configuration.
Antique — A motor vehicle, but not a reproduction thereof, at least 25 years old, which has been maintained in or restored to a condition which is substantially in conformity with manufacturer specifications and appearance.
Special Interest- a vehicle uniquely distinguishable from the usual, and/or designed for a particular purpose, such as a race car, military vehicle or bus, or built to a specific and unusual theme, either of which would generate interest because of its uniqueness or specialty function.
Kit Car - any vehicle that is created primarily from kit or prefabricated parts, and is a reproduction or replica. An original factory-built vehicle that utilizes prefabricated fiberglass body units to replace worn/damaged original parts is not a kit car.
Muscle Car - a high-performance automobile, built in the 1960's-1970's. The term principally refers to American, Australian and South African models and generally describes a 2-door rear-wheel drive mid-size with a large, powerful V8 engine and special trim, intended for maximum torque on the street or in drag racing competition. Normally was not built with comfort amenities of their counterparts.
Brass Era Car - beginning with the first horseless carriages, named for the brass fittings used for such things as lights and radiators. Starting with the first commercial automobiles of the 1890s to about 1918-19. Includes most Edwardian cars
Veteran Car - any motor vehicle built prior to 1905
Edwardian Car - any vehicle built from 1905 - 1918. Includes all brass era cars
Vintage Car - commonly defined as a car built between 1919 and 1930. The Classic Car Club of America prefers 1925 since it is the pre-classic car period.
Pre-War - beginning with the Great Depression in 1930 and ending after WWII, usually placed at 1948
See also
ACRISS Car Classification Code
Automobile
Car safety and road safety
Car body style
Three wheeled car
Truck classification
Vehicle size class
References
How are vehicle size classes defined? FuelEconomy.gov, part of the U.S. Department of Energy
CANADIAN ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ACT, 1999 Canada Gazette
VFACTS Motor Vehicle Classifications and Definitions Australian FCAI - Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries
Koch, Jeff. "The First Muscle Car: Older Than You" Hemmings Muscle Machines - October 1, 2004, retrieved on 2008-06-30.
The Merriam-Webster definition: "any of a group of American-made 2-door sports coupes with powerful engines designed for high-performance driving."car "muscle car." Merriam-Webster Online, retrieved on 2008-06-30.
"Muscle Car Definition" Muscle Car Club Muscle, undated, retrieved on 2008-06-30.
Sherman, Don. "Muscle Cars Now Worth Millions" The New York Times, June 4, 2006, retrieved on 2008-06-30.
Classic Muscle Cars Library, How Stuff Works, undated, retrieved on 2008-06-30.
"Muscle Car Definition" by Muscle Car Society, undated, retrieved on 2008-06-30.
Gunnell, John (2005). American Cars of The 1960s: A Decade of Diversity. Krause Publications, 47-50. ISBN 978-0896891319.
"Pony Car History" undated, retrieved on 2008-06-30.
Roy, Rex. "Car culture: A child's Pony Car education essential" The Detroit News, February 27, 2008, retrieved on 2008-06-30.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Settler's Green Pix & More
For those who may be interested, a fellow by the name of Bob Dwyer took pix at Settler's green and posted them on his site at http://www.linwoodstreet.com/valley. Pretty good pix - there are two pages of them. Thanks, Bob, for sharing.
Ken Matthews would like to remind the volunteers for the Two Trails Cruisers Show to be at the WalMart in Windham at 4:00 pm on Friday, September 19th, and show up not later than 7:00 am on Saturday, September 20th.
Don't forget (as if you could) about the OOB cruise on Friday and the show on Saturday. It looks to be bigger than ever.
Will Paul Hanson and Bob Johnson please report to the Principal's Office - sorry - I mean, please go to Two Trails Diner on Rte 25 in Standish, to pick up the trophies you won at the Kiwanis car show last month. Gib doesn't want to have to dust them anymore.
From a reader who went to the Nationals this last weekend (sorry for the caps - I did not want to rewrite the letter):
"WELL HELLO BILL !!!! WE JUST GOT BACK FROM QUITE A WEEKEND . WE WENT TO THE ATLANATIC NATIONALS IN LAKE GEORGE NEW YORK . HAD A GREAT TIME . AT THIS SHOW THEY TAKE ONLY 1550 CARS - UNBELIEVABLE. AND OUT OF THOSE CARS THEY PICK THE FAVORITE FIFTY. WELL THIS YEAR IT WAS THEIR 25TH ANNIVERSARY SO THEY ADDED ANOTHER FAVORITE 50. THE TROPHYS WERE COOL . THEY BOUGHT ALL OF THE OLD PARKING METERS IN TOWN AND HAD THEM MADE INTO A TROPHY , THE SECOND TOP 50 CARS GOT TOP FAVORITE JACKETS AND A HAT AND A CHANCE TO COME BACK NEXT YEAR . WELL A MAN AND HIS WIFE MADE IT FROM MAINE . BOB AND PAM REED WON WITH THEIR FORD TRUCK AND I COULDN’T BE HAPPIER OUT OF 1500 CARS . SO WHEN YOU SEE HIM AT ANY SHOWS CONGRATULATE HIM CAUSE THAT IS A GREAT HONOR . AFTER THE SHOW WAS OVER ON SATURDAY THEY HAD A CRUISE LOOKED LIKE SOMETHING OUT OF THE PAST CARS CRUISING EVERYWHERE . STAN AND I LEFT ON SUNDAY AND DROVE TO NASHUA NEW HAMPHIRE TO THE EAST COAST CAMARO SHOW A LOT OF CARS THERE TOO. WE GOT THIRD PLACE AND THE LONG DISTANCE TROPY DRIVING AS 87 MILES TO GET THERE . WE WILL BE IN LOUDON THIS WEEKEND SO WE WILL SEE YA AT WALMART."
Congratulations, Bob & Pam - you represent Maine well!
For all you readers - as you know, HotKarz posts over 2000 pix each year, so the odds are pretty good there are pix that you may want to save, or use. You are free to do so, for any non-commercial purpose. To save a pic, simply right-click on it, then choose SAVE PICTURE AS... and copy it to your computer.
Well, the garden is done for this season, so we won't have any more free veggies at the cruises. The air is chillin', the days getting shorter, and the fall fairs are almost upon us. Can next spring be far behind?
Yeah - it can (*o*)
Ken Matthews would like to remind the volunteers for the Two Trails Cruisers Show to be at the WalMart in Windham at 4:00 pm on Friday, September 19th, and show up not later than 7:00 am on Saturday, September 20th.
Don't forget (as if you could) about the OOB cruise on Friday and the show on Saturday. It looks to be bigger than ever.
Will Paul Hanson and Bob Johnson please report to the Principal's Office - sorry - I mean, please go to Two Trails Diner on Rte 25 in Standish, to pick up the trophies you won at the Kiwanis car show last month. Gib doesn't want to have to dust them anymore.
From a reader who went to the Nationals this last weekend (sorry for the caps - I did not want to rewrite the letter):
"WELL HELLO BILL !!!! WE JUST GOT BACK FROM QUITE A WEEKEND . WE WENT TO THE ATLANATIC NATIONALS IN LAKE GEORGE NEW YORK . HAD A GREAT TIME . AT THIS SHOW THEY TAKE ONLY 1550 CARS - UNBELIEVABLE. AND OUT OF THOSE CARS THEY PICK THE FAVORITE FIFTY. WELL THIS YEAR IT WAS THEIR 25TH ANNIVERSARY SO THEY ADDED ANOTHER FAVORITE 50. THE TROPHYS WERE COOL . THEY BOUGHT ALL OF THE OLD PARKING METERS IN TOWN AND HAD THEM MADE INTO A TROPHY , THE SECOND TOP 50 CARS GOT TOP FAVORITE JACKETS AND A HAT AND A CHANCE TO COME BACK NEXT YEAR . WELL A MAN AND HIS WIFE MADE IT FROM MAINE . BOB AND PAM REED WON WITH THEIR FORD TRUCK AND I COULDN’T BE HAPPIER OUT OF 1500 CARS . SO WHEN YOU SEE HIM AT ANY SHOWS CONGRATULATE HIM CAUSE THAT IS A GREAT HONOR . AFTER THE SHOW WAS OVER ON SATURDAY THEY HAD A CRUISE LOOKED LIKE SOMETHING OUT OF THE PAST CARS CRUISING EVERYWHERE . STAN AND I LEFT ON SUNDAY AND DROVE TO NASHUA NEW HAMPHIRE TO THE EAST COAST CAMARO SHOW A LOT OF CARS THERE TOO. WE GOT THIRD PLACE AND THE LONG DISTANCE TROPY DRIVING AS 87 MILES TO GET THERE . WE WILL BE IN LOUDON THIS WEEKEND SO WE WILL SEE YA AT WALMART."
Congratulations, Bob & Pam - you represent Maine well!
For all you readers - as you know, HotKarz posts over 2000 pix each year, so the odds are pretty good there are pix that you may want to save, or use. You are free to do so, for any non-commercial purpose. To save a pic, simply right-click on it, then choose SAVE PICTURE AS... and copy it to your computer.
Well, the garden is done for this season, so we won't have any more free veggies at the cruises. The air is chillin', the days getting shorter, and the fall fairs are almost upon us. Can next spring be far behind?
Yeah - it can (*o*)
Some STILL do not get it!!!!
Here is the latest comment from that fellow who does not think Special Interest should be "Special Interest". This entry is directed at him, explicitly. Here is his comment (posted to the last blog):
"So what is special interest?? From your stand point nothing is so if the organizers want these cars in their shows and YOU don't think they belong in special interest than lets have a class called the loner cars would that make you happy? If we Mainers aren't up to your standards then why don't you stay home then we won't upset you. "
[REPLY] I have said this at least 30 times on this website - Special Interest is any vehicle that actually does have a SPECIAL interest. Something that gives it a special connotation to the public in general. There is nothing of special interest in a stock vehicle, unless it is one-of-a-kind. There is nothing special interest in a Corvette or Mustang unless there is something very unusual or unique about it, which would generate a SPECIAL interest. If the vehicle cannot be legitimately defined as having a unique, special interest, then it does not belong in Special Interest. It does not take a degree in common sense to figure that out.
And it has nothing to do with "my standpoint". Facts are facts, and do not change simply because of a different angle of view. And as I have ALREADY said (many times), show organizers who want a class for any "orphans" should include that class - nationally, the ORPHAN class is used widely as a legitimate class for any vehicle that does not fit into any other listed class. And some shows call the class GENERAL INTEREST, or FIELD class. I guess you must have missed that.
And for your arrogant, ignorant statement that if "Mainers aren't up to your standards then why don't you stay home then we won't upset you", that is not even an intelligent enough remark to warrant a response for two reasons:
1) I live in Maine, too, and
2) It matters not where a person lives - right and wrong is not dictated by geographical area.
So, I have a suggestion for you, fella: if you want to disagree about classes, that is your choice. But don't try to defend something that is so obviously wrong. And if you still cannot see the difference between "Special Interest" and just any old vehicle, get out your dictionary and look up the definition of SPECIAL and INTEREST. Maybe then you will have a clue.
From Merriam Webster Dictionary:
SPECIAL: distinguished by some unusual quality; unique; being other than the usual : designed for a particular purpose or occasion
INTEREST: a feeling that accompanies or causes special attention to an object or class of objects
So, a vehicle in Special Interest should be uniquely distinguishable from the usual, and/or designed for a particular purpose (as I said, like a firetruck, MASH jeep, tank, surf wagon, etc.) which would peak the interest of the public at large.
Now, if you think a stock Firebird, or a stock Caddy, or a stock '67 pickup truck somehow fit that definition, then you need help that is beyond the scope of this blog.
"So what is special interest?? From your stand point nothing is so if the organizers want these cars in their shows and YOU don't think they belong in special interest than lets have a class called the loner cars would that make you happy? If we Mainers aren't up to your standards then why don't you stay home then we won't upset you. "
[REPLY] I have said this at least 30 times on this website - Special Interest is any vehicle that actually does have a SPECIAL interest. Something that gives it a special connotation to the public in general. There is nothing of special interest in a stock vehicle, unless it is one-of-a-kind. There is nothing special interest in a Corvette or Mustang unless there is something very unusual or unique about it, which would generate a SPECIAL interest. If the vehicle cannot be legitimately defined as having a unique, special interest, then it does not belong in Special Interest. It does not take a degree in common sense to figure that out.
And it has nothing to do with "my standpoint". Facts are facts, and do not change simply because of a different angle of view. And as I have ALREADY said (many times), show organizers who want a class for any "orphans" should include that class - nationally, the ORPHAN class is used widely as a legitimate class for any vehicle that does not fit into any other listed class. And some shows call the class GENERAL INTEREST, or FIELD class. I guess you must have missed that.
And for your arrogant, ignorant statement that if "Mainers aren't up to your standards then why don't you stay home then we won't upset you", that is not even an intelligent enough remark to warrant a response for two reasons:
1) I live in Maine, too, and
2) It matters not where a person lives - right and wrong is not dictated by geographical area.
So, I have a suggestion for you, fella: if you want to disagree about classes, that is your choice. But don't try to defend something that is so obviously wrong. And if you still cannot see the difference between "Special Interest" and just any old vehicle, get out your dictionary and look up the definition of SPECIAL and INTEREST. Maybe then you will have a clue.
From Merriam Webster Dictionary:
SPECIAL: distinguished by some unusual quality; unique; being other than the usual : designed for a particular purpose or occasion
INTEREST: a feeling that accompanies or causes special attention to an object or class of objects
So, a vehicle in Special Interest should be uniquely distinguishable from the usual, and/or designed for a particular purpose (as I said, like a firetruck, MASH jeep, tank, surf wagon, etc.) which would peak the interest of the public at large.
Now, if you think a stock Firebird, or a stock Caddy, or a stock '67 pickup truck somehow fit that definition, then you need help that is beyond the scope of this blog.
Special Interest
Another person who commented says that it is his belief that SPECIAL INTEREST is a class specifically for any car without a class. It need not be "special interest". "It's been done this way for years". Hm-m-m. Does that mean I can register my PT with the Camaros, because "Camaro" does not mean Camaro?
As for the suggestion that it has always been done this way: is it OK to abuse your kids today just because you have been doing it for years without getting caught? Of course not. Just because it has been done for years does not make it right.
The commenter is 100% WRONG! Special Interest means SPECIAL INTEREST, just like Mustangs means MUSTANGS. And Special Interest means the vehicle must have a "special" interest for the general public. The name of a class DESCRIBES what is to be in that class. The name of the class defines it.
Shows that want to include a class for every vehicle that is an "orphan" from all listed classes would typically have a class named, appropriately enough, ORPHANS. Some shows give it a more aesthetic name, such as GENERAL INTEREST or FIELD class. But Special Interest is a legitimate class, and needs to be treated as such if the show is to retain legitimacy.
Just because a lot of shows - and participants - have abused a class for years does not make it right.
I understand that Maine is not all that "up to snuff" with many things, including car shows. Mainers have a tendancy to do what is expedient, which is an admirable Yankee characteristic. But there comes a time when expediency must give way to what is honest and fair to all, and leave the slip-shod methods behind that leave some folks out in the cold. In most of the country, car shows are run in accordance with a somewhat strict set of standards, to insure fairness and honesty.
No, not all shows are the same - there are many TYPES of car shows. But regardless of type, the shows, themselves, are expected to follow certain standards, for the sake of legitimacy. The reason, of course, is simple: the value of a vehicle is often determined in part by its ability to win top honors - just like a dog or horse show. For those values to be legitimate, the winning must also be legitimate. It is fraudulent to increase the value of something based on false information. So, if trophies are not won by legitimate means, in a fair competition, it is crooked to use such awards as a means of placing a higher value on the vehicle.
Everyone should want to play on a level playing field. And it is in everyone's best interest to do so.
As for the suggestion that it has always been done this way: is it OK to abuse your kids today just because you have been doing it for years without getting caught? Of course not. Just because it has been done for years does not make it right.
The commenter is 100% WRONG! Special Interest means SPECIAL INTEREST, just like Mustangs means MUSTANGS. And Special Interest means the vehicle must have a "special" interest for the general public. The name of a class DESCRIBES what is to be in that class. The name of the class defines it.
Shows that want to include a class for every vehicle that is an "orphan" from all listed classes would typically have a class named, appropriately enough, ORPHANS. Some shows give it a more aesthetic name, such as GENERAL INTEREST or FIELD class. But Special Interest is a legitimate class, and needs to be treated as such if the show is to retain legitimacy.
Just because a lot of shows - and participants - have abused a class for years does not make it right.
I understand that Maine is not all that "up to snuff" with many things, including car shows. Mainers have a tendancy to do what is expedient, which is an admirable Yankee characteristic. But there comes a time when expediency must give way to what is honest and fair to all, and leave the slip-shod methods behind that leave some folks out in the cold. In most of the country, car shows are run in accordance with a somewhat strict set of standards, to insure fairness and honesty.
No, not all shows are the same - there are many TYPES of car shows. But regardless of type, the shows, themselves, are expected to follow certain standards, for the sake of legitimacy. The reason, of course, is simple: the value of a vehicle is often determined in part by its ability to win top honors - just like a dog or horse show. For those values to be legitimate, the winning must also be legitimate. It is fraudulent to increase the value of something based on false information. So, if trophies are not won by legitimate means, in a fair competition, it is crooked to use such awards as a means of placing a higher value on the vehicle.
Everyone should want to play on a level playing field. And it is in everyone's best interest to do so.
The Lantern In The Barn
One reader (see COMMENTS below last post) asked that I elaborate on a true story that expresses, to some degree, the problems that some of us experience, not only with shows, but in other areas of life, as well. It has to do with "getting used to" problems to the point where we no longer "see" them. Here is part of the letter I shared with that reader earlier:
"After awhile, folks get accustomed to something, then stop seeing it. I remember our barn when I was a kid. Ever since I was born, there was always a lantern (no longer used) hanging on a hook just inside the door. One day I walked into the barn, and noticed something was different. Couldn't put my finger on it - but I knew something was not right. That evening I told my dad about that feeling. He then told me that he had finally tossed out the old lantern.
"All those years of walking right by it, but never really noticing it anymore because it was just "always there".
How many times have you grown so accustomed to something - a lantern on the wall; a problem at work; or even a spouse - that you just stop "seeing" it? Taking it for granted. I think that is what has happened to car shows. It used to be a thing of honor, to compete honestly. But as in all things, a few people who are either unthinking, or in some cases just dishonest, begin taking advantage, and in an attempt to win, they stoop to a lower level. At first, it is only one or two people, so we look askance at them, but say nothing. And because we say nothing, the problem slowly grows, like any infection, fungus or weed. Left untended in fertile ground, anything will grow.
And as it grew, we became rather numb to it. We figured we could do nothing about it, so we began ignoring it. And today, such problems have gotten almost out of control.
But they are not out of control yet. We have the opportunity to clean it up, and make it better for everyone except the cheaters. We can do that by monitoring ourselves, and by confronting organizers who allow, or even encourage it.
To monitor ourselves, simply THINK before you vote - first and foremost, your vote should never go for any vehicle that is out of its class. And you should avoid the trap of voting in the "buddy system". It's time that the winners were the vehicles that actually deserve to win, and not just the folks who have the most friends and relatives present. It's not supposed to be a popularity contest. And if you see someone overtly cheating, talk to them - not in a confrontation, but as a friend.
And when organizers allow, or encourage cheating by allowing class jumping, or sticking cars in the wrong classes, we need to speak up, and let them know if they do not enforce their classes, or provide adequate services and organization, we will stop going to their shows. That will get their attention, and it WILL result in better shows, simply because their primary purpose is to raise funds - and they cannot do that if folks stop going to their shows.
If we pull together, we can get the monkey back into its cage. If we do not, the monkey will raise havoc with us all, and eventually ruin it for everyone.
If you fail to tend your garden, the weeds will overtake it.
"After awhile, folks get accustomed to something, then stop seeing it. I remember our barn when I was a kid. Ever since I was born, there was always a lantern (no longer used) hanging on a hook just inside the door. One day I walked into the barn, and noticed something was different. Couldn't put my finger on it - but I knew something was not right. That evening I told my dad about that feeling. He then told me that he had finally tossed out the old lantern.
"All those years of walking right by it, but never really noticing it anymore because it was just "always there".
How many times have you grown so accustomed to something - a lantern on the wall; a problem at work; or even a spouse - that you just stop "seeing" it? Taking it for granted. I think that is what has happened to car shows. It used to be a thing of honor, to compete honestly. But as in all things, a few people who are either unthinking, or in some cases just dishonest, begin taking advantage, and in an attempt to win, they stoop to a lower level. At first, it is only one or two people, so we look askance at them, but say nothing. And because we say nothing, the problem slowly grows, like any infection, fungus or weed. Left untended in fertile ground, anything will grow.
And as it grew, we became rather numb to it. We figured we could do nothing about it, so we began ignoring it. And today, such problems have gotten almost out of control.
But they are not out of control yet. We have the opportunity to clean it up, and make it better for everyone except the cheaters. We can do that by monitoring ourselves, and by confronting organizers who allow, or even encourage it.
To monitor ourselves, simply THINK before you vote - first and foremost, your vote should never go for any vehicle that is out of its class. And you should avoid the trap of voting in the "buddy system". It's time that the winners were the vehicles that actually deserve to win, and not just the folks who have the most friends and relatives present. It's not supposed to be a popularity contest. And if you see someone overtly cheating, talk to them - not in a confrontation, but as a friend.
And when organizers allow, or encourage cheating by allowing class jumping, or sticking cars in the wrong classes, we need to speak up, and let them know if they do not enforce their classes, or provide adequate services and organization, we will stop going to their shows. That will get their attention, and it WILL result in better shows, simply because their primary purpose is to raise funds - and they cannot do that if folks stop going to their shows.
If we pull together, we can get the monkey back into its cage. If we do not, the monkey will raise havoc with us all, and eventually ruin it for everyone.
If you fail to tend your garden, the weeds will overtake it.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Gettin' It
I am uncertain how it is that some folks have so much difficulty understanding a simple concept.
As I was enjoying the company of friends at C.H.O.P. this evening, a man approached and told me he owned one of the cars that was wrongly in Special Interest at the Windham show on Sunday. He went on to say that he registered in Special Interest because they did not have a class for him.
With all due respect, this person, and others like him just aren't getting it. If a show does not have a class for you, DON'T GO! It is wrong, and dishonest, to register in a class you do not belong in, regardless of what reason you think you may have. When show organizers choose classes, whether they realize it or not they are creating their "invitation list". If there is not a class for you, then you are not invited.
So, they did not have a class for this fellow. So why didn't he register his stock Firebird with the Mustangs? Or the Corvettes? Or the 2WD Trucks? Of course, the reason is obvious - his car did not belong in those classes. And that is my point - it did not belong in Special Interest, either! There is nothing of SPECIAL Interest in a stock Firebird. So it did not belong in the class. Period!
If you would not register a stock Fbird in with Mustangs or Camaros, don't register it in Special Interest, either.
The ONLY vehicles that belong in Special Interest - EVER - are those vehicles that have a SPECIAL INTEREST. And just because you may have a special interest in your vehicle, that does not mean it has a special interest. The special interest must be for the general public.
If your vehicle does not have a special theme (firetruck, military jeep, surf wagon, VW Hippie Bus, or a model A that has a built-in popcorn machine), or if it is not unique (SnoCat, tank, or the "One Piece At A Time" Caddy), then it does not belong in special interest.
So, to this gentleman I would ask: if the show had a Firebird class, but not a Special Interest class, do you think it would be appropriate for me to register my PT Woody in your Firebird class? After all, if they do not have a class for me, shouldn't I be able to register in your class?
At the risk of repeating myself about 2,531 times: no one should register in ANY class that is not a good and appropriate fit for their vehicle. If they do, they are cheating everyone who is in that class legitimately.
Like the saying goes: I don't swim in your toilet, so don't piss in my pool.
As I was enjoying the company of friends at C.H.O.P. this evening, a man approached and told me he owned one of the cars that was wrongly in Special Interest at the Windham show on Sunday. He went on to say that he registered in Special Interest because they did not have a class for him.
With all due respect, this person, and others like him just aren't getting it. If a show does not have a class for you, DON'T GO! It is wrong, and dishonest, to register in a class you do not belong in, regardless of what reason you think you may have. When show organizers choose classes, whether they realize it or not they are creating their "invitation list". If there is not a class for you, then you are not invited.
So, they did not have a class for this fellow. So why didn't he register his stock Firebird with the Mustangs? Or the Corvettes? Or the 2WD Trucks? Of course, the reason is obvious - his car did not belong in those classes. And that is my point - it did not belong in Special Interest, either! There is nothing of SPECIAL Interest in a stock Firebird. So it did not belong in the class. Period!
If you would not register a stock Fbird in with Mustangs or Camaros, don't register it in Special Interest, either.
The ONLY vehicles that belong in Special Interest - EVER - are those vehicles that have a SPECIAL INTEREST. And just because you may have a special interest in your vehicle, that does not mean it has a special interest. The special interest must be for the general public.
If your vehicle does not have a special theme (firetruck, military jeep, surf wagon, VW Hippie Bus, or a model A that has a built-in popcorn machine), or if it is not unique (SnoCat, tank, or the "One Piece At A Time" Caddy), then it does not belong in special interest.
So, to this gentleman I would ask: if the show had a Firebird class, but not a Special Interest class, do you think it would be appropriate for me to register my PT Woody in your Firebird class? After all, if they do not have a class for me, shouldn't I be able to register in your class?
At the risk of repeating myself about 2,531 times: no one should register in ANY class that is not a good and appropriate fit for their vehicle. If they do, they are cheating everyone who is in that class legitimately.
Like the saying goes: I don't swim in your toilet, so don't piss in my pool.
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