Back to Events       Home Page

 ANNUAL BANQUET 2005

AT

FRIENDLY FARM RESTAURANT

by Jerry Gordon

Was the Club's final event for 2005 the perfect way to end our 50th Anniversary? All of the 100 members and guests in attendance at the Annual Banquet seemed to think so. We had an especially good time visiting with each other, looking at the 22 antique cars that members drove, enjoying absolutely great fall weather throughout the day, and dining on excellent Friendly Farm food. Yes indeed, a perfect ending for 2005.

Throughout the afternoon in the meeting room scenes from the Club's early years and this year's 20 events were displayed on a large screen. This reminded us of all the great times that we had at shows, on tours, at the 50th Anniversary Picnic, and at the Flea Market and Crab Feast.

The Banquet began with a moving invocation by Art Rutledge. We were then served Friendly Farm's delicious crab cakes and everyone helped themselves from the buffet of chicken, shrimp, and fixings.

Next, the program portion of the Banquet featured introduction and recognition of the Club's current officers and committee chairs, the past presidents, new members, and members who served as event hosts.

Gladys and Sterling Walsh were recognized for their efforts in making our 50th Anniversary Picnic such a special occasion. And our remaining active Charter Member, Raymond White, was recognized for his 50 years of continuous involvement In the Club.

Outgoing President Harry Wilhelm handed over the gavel to incoming President Thomas Young in the traditional transfer of leadership ceremony. Jerry Gordon presented Harry Wilhelm with an award for his four terms as President of the Club.

Chesapeake Region's three major annual awards were then presented by outgoing President Harry Wilhelm. The Chick Smith Memorial Award, which is given to the member who has done the most for the Club during the year (selected by members voting on the annual ballot) was given to Jerry Gordon. The Spirit Award, which is given to the member who has done the most for the Club during the year (selected by the Club's Board) was given to Ted Schneider. The President's Award, which is given to the member who made a significant contribution during the year (selected by the President) had co-winners - Vicky and Gary Wilmer, and Margaret Werneth.

Jerry Gordon recognized and thanked members who made the Banquet a success - Vicky and Gary Wilmer, Lois and John Krupinsky, Ed Ellis; and Thomas Kenney and Ted Schneider for the visual entertainment.

A quick poll was taken among the members present regarding interest in an overnight tour in 2006. There was a majority indicating interest, so that event will be on the planning agenda.

And then it was time for the distribution of the Annual Banquet goodies - door prizes for everyone, the table decorations, and the commemorative 50th Anniversary Picnic photo.

We hope that our Club can carry over the great energy shown by all members during the 50th Anniversary into next year.

Election Results 

Election results for the Club's 2006 Officers and Directors: Tom Young, President; Dave Benson, Vice President; Anne & Tom Kenney, Secretary; Gary Wilmer, Treasurer; Harry Wilhelm, Director; Rick Hollar, Director; Jerry Gordon Activities Director; Paul Habicht, Membership; Ed Allen, Technical; and Larry Butcher, Chief Judge.  The top Club events, voted by members, were the Crab Feast, Annual Banquet, and 50th Anniversary Picnic.