Staying Grounded

Sometimes I feel as if I am an aircraft flying over the Mercedes-Benz Club of America because a fair amount of my time is spent dealing with the club at the 30,000-foot level. However, several times each month I get to be on the ground with different sections and club members. When I am with members, I hear about the challenges, accomplishments, and aspirations they have for their individual sections. The passion you have for this club is what really thrills me, and I see it everywhere I go.

When I am on the ground with you, two things happen: First, I begin to realize all the energy expended to organize the great events that are taking place across the country at various region and section levels; second, I become incredibly proud of the work our section leaders and you – our devoted members – perform continuously to foster appreciation for the unique heritage and character that the MBCA and Mercedes-Benz represent.

I recently returned from Naples, Florida, where I spent the day with South Florida and Southwest Florida section members and toured the Collier County Museum. If you ever have the opportunity to visit Naples, make sure you take the time to view the Collier collection – it is perhaps the most impressive and valuable display of automobiles I have ever seen.  

Also impressive is the remarkable membership story surrounding the southern Florida regions. On either side of Alligator Alley, two groups of passionate and committed enthusiasts have taken the reins of their respective sections, garnered respect from their dealerships, and created a model that will benefit members for years to come.

Southwest Florida Section members Tom and Anne Harruff, along with Glen Sholl, have worked tirelessly to build a relationship with Mercedes-Benz of Naples and its service director, Mike Cozza, who proudly displays his Star Dealer award, a plaque displaying the article published in The Star magazine highlighting the dealership’s accomplishments. In a partnership with the South Florida Section, led by Maria Rodriguez and a fantastic board, the two sections offer an events calendar that allows Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts to gather multiple times each month. Moreover, the Southwest Florida Section has grown its membership fivefold in five years, which is a testament to its leadership.

Truly inspiring is the fact that similar stories exist all around the country. The dedication and advocacy for the MBCA is evident everywhere I go. My experience is that participation in club activities and governance is at an all-time high, and each and every section should be proud of its respective events and the turnout of its members.

I have continually referenced my respect for Mercedes-Benz and MBCA enthusiasts. As a member, you have the opportunity to be welcomed by sections with enthusiasts like those described above. Flip to the Upcoming Section Events in the magazine and read about the June Jamboree or Legends of the Autobahn – on the East and West coasts, respectively – or the Concours d’Elegance of America at St. John’s or Heimatfest, and plan to attend these events. I guarantee you will have a good time and meet some great people along the way – most who are much more interesting (and taller) than me.  

I am doing my best to visit as many sections as I can, and if you have an upcoming gathering that you would like me to attend, please drop me a note. For the better part of 20 years, I have been a ground-level member of the MBCA, and that has been the most fulfilling part of this experience.   

Get your calendar out and start making plans. If you are new to the club, it’s the best-kept secret for summer fun with your car. If you are a longtime member, you know the fun that awaits. Either way, I look forward to seeing you this summer.