(352)373-6916
rschmidt@npdlink.com

I was very interested in the restoration of antique autos from an early age. Acquiring a derelict, barely running 1928 Ford 'A' Sport Coupe at the age of 14 and proceeding immediately to body-off restoration in the family garage (which took 3 years!).

Next came an 18-month old 1957 Thunderbird (dual-quad, overdrive) as the first "driver" car just after my 16th birthday. By high school graduation, there were a half-dozen derelict 'A's, a 1940 Ford convertible and a 1915 'T' touring accumulated from classmates and teachers. Needless to say, the hobby became my life. Today, some 46 years later, my son and I own and manage National Parts Depot, one of the largest parts suppliers to the restoration hobby, and that high school "collection" has become 152 cars and trucks we call the NPD Collection. That first 1928 'A' is still with us, re-restored better than I did it in high school, recipient of the annual AACA Ford Award, and was chosen by Ford Motor Company to head the 25 "Heart and Soul" vehicle display during their 100th Anniversary celebrations.

I feel strongly about giving back to the great people who are AACA. Our region hopes our efforts during the 2005 Winter National Meet will exceed your expectations.