It’s probably fair to say it's time to move past 2020 quickly. It's been a trying year to enjoy the communities we belong to. The shutdowns and quarantines have made it challenging to interact and experience the cars we embrace with our friends and members, both on the concours field and on the road.

Regardless of the challenges this year has brought, there have been several victories we can celebrate.

Progress in 2020

• The Social Media Committee, chaired by Andrew Opicka, has embraced and launched MBCA's online car shows and tech sessions.

• The new editor of The Star®, Jeff Zurschmeide, has successfully transitioned in his role with delivering our award-winning and most sought-after member benefit.

• MBUSA added more value to the Member Rebate program in the U.S. and MB Canada continues to offer the same Canadian Member Rebate program.

• The Membership Committee, chaired by Doug Geganto, has been working tirelessly in developing new membership programs like the auto-renew feature, Baker's Dozen program, dealer hang-tag program and new membership application, 

• The Raffle Committee, chaired by Ernie Fancy, has brought forth the first raffle offering a chance to win a classic Mercedes-Benz.

• Some sections have embraced the health guidelines and figured out how to have events safely for members to enjoy.

Looking ahead

Although we've seen and experienced some of the silver linings, there is much more to do. 2021 won't mean we are out of the woods, but as we learn more about how to live within the current standards, the club can adopt different ways to interact and engage with each other. Ultimately, it's cars that bring us together, and we need to continue overcoming the hurdles to continue embracing the heritage and modern cars we enjoy.

And so, as we ring in the New Year in the coming weeks, let's remember the things we are thankful for and find a safe way to participate in the things we enjoy. From us to you, we wish everyone a safe and healthy 2021.