I'm a little late to the Winchester recap. Wednesday-Friday was awesome, beautiful, delightful, etc. Saturday, not so bueno. Loading in the rain and mud, and driving through sideways wind and rain was a white knuckler at times. Then, unloading in the rain at Commandant HQ was just icing on the cake. Tainted icing....bad icing.
It was a great time while it lasted and great to see everyone that made it out. The forecast and other plans kept some away and they were missed. Right off the bat I need to thank Pat for the awesome beverage couzies with the 860 on them. Very generous and appreciated.
We didn't even get to have the Stovebolt banquet this year due to the tropical depression that soaked everything and caused a mass exodus. I need to thank Victor ( and Mrs. Victor) for the delicious brownies. I rescued them before the rain and they somehow made it home with me.
Jennifer and I are still enjoying them.
Mike Roach Pat and Artie Guy get the last men standing award this year staying until Sunday. I didn't mind giving that title up this year. A couple of personal observations that may not mean anything to some but, for me, it was awful strange to see Gary Callis's 59' REO there and not see him in it. Gary passed earlier this year and he was definitely missed.
I had trouble with the battery on the 860 when we were loading on Wednesday morning. When we arrived in Winchester, I needed a jump to get the truck off the trailer. As usual, almost like magic, I turned around and there was Scott Shifflett there to rescue me.
He always seems to be there to help out whatever the situation may be. Same with when we went to load Saturday morning. He and his crew were there to help get the trailer aligned correctly with the loading dock (too went and slippery to drive the truck up the trailer ramp). He was a huge help and is primary in the success of the Winchester Truck Show. We should all be thankful for Scott.
It sounds like Amtrak Joe gets the hardship award for his trip home to Philly. I'm sure he will elaborate but suffice to say, 12.5 hours to make it home. Sorry Joe.
So good to have the ODSS President in camp this year. A brother like no other.
I feel the same as he does though, can't wait to be back in Winchester (rain free please). Oh and by the way, next year will be a big one, 20 years for the Tri-State Antique Truck show. Bibs mandatory for Friday nights dinner.
