From the January 2003 issue:
OUR 2002 SHOW WAS EXCELLENT:
It started out right chilly, but the day got better and better, ending in one of the nicest show days we could remember.
This year’s (2002) show at National Parts Depot in Ocala was again jointly worked by both the Gainesville and Ocala Regions of AACA. On a day with many other competing car shows, we certainly held our own with about 160 registered cars in attendance. Another 40 preregistered, but were apparently scared off by the early morning weather.
This year’s event included a large tool display by Home Depot (Gainesville), which included two guys doing ‘show and tell’ type demonstrations. The displays were well attended and certainly some of the items ended up on many Christmas wish lists.
Dan Horton handled the disk jockey business and was active with his announcements.
Once again the level of door prizes that were available for the car entries was phenomenal. Mike Whyte and Suzanne Kirk raised the bar again in organizing and getting the prizes.
There were enough prizes so that every driver entered was able to win something. Considering that this was a free show for most people and only $5 for late entries, this had to be one of the best bargains in car shows.
Jim and Rick Schmidt thru National Parts Depot again sponsored the beautiful (and large quantity) of trophies. There were many happy winners when they were handed out about 3PM. A special trophy was also presented under the auspices of Don Garlits (who autographed it, but was unable to attend this year.) A beautiful clock plaque trophy was furnished by NPD for the ‘Best of Show’. This was won by Don Connolly, a realtor from Naples, with his gorgeous 1955 Chevy. This was Don’s first trip to our show and he had a lot of kind words.
The National Parts Depot collection of over 100 prime automobiles was again open to the public for their enjoyment and amazement. Thanks to Jim and Rick once more for their support.