I've just returned from Spokane, being there since Tuesday evening.
This is my first International SDC meet and thought I'd give a few
impressions.  It was great getting to meet newsgroup folks, seeing some
incredible cars, learning a whole lot about Studebaker history and
models and seeing how the club operates.

I spent many hours perusing the vendors and buying a few things.  I
attended several very informative seminars and enjoyed talking with
many, many car owners.  There is obviously a great love with this group
and sincere interest in keeping the Studebaker aura alive.  I found
everyone open and willing.

The weather Wednesday was rain off an on - dried my car THREE TIMES!
But worth the effort - most everyone else was doing the same thing.  I
was able to attend an AC Reconditioning, Fiberglas Repair and a
Exterior/Interior Maintenance seminars.  Wednesday evening was an open
SDC meeting in which some dirty laundry was aired - I found the
interchange fascinating, but disappointed that club assets had been
absconded.  The auction held afterwards raised over $11,000 for the
Studebaker Endowment Fund.

Early Thursday, all cars being displayed made their way into Spokane's
beautiful downtown park along the river.  There were so many cars (my
estimate is 2-300) that it took 3 separate areas to show them all.  The
weather was great, the cars looked perfect and lots of Spokane showed
up to see them.

Thursday evening was supposed to be FUN NIGHT, but personally, I
couldn't get into the accordians.  (Who handles entertainment...!)
They played for much too long and were followed by an Elvis
impersonator.  I retired early and read....:-(

Friday was another gorgeous day in which I was able to talk with a lot
of people and learn about their cars.  In the evening was the Awards
Banquet.  I estimated a couple thousand people in attendance.  (Wonder
if others think that's accurate.)  There were a lot of awards having to
do with publications and other stuff before the car awards.  I'm sure
the details will be forthcoming the Turning Wheels, but I was pleased
to see the Puget Sound Avanti Owner's took home FOUR First Places!

My thirteen year old son went with me and has become a certified Stude
Nut!  He wants one of every model, including the trucks - can't wait
til he can drive.  I couldn't help wondering what the SDC will look
like in a few years as many of the members may not be here to
participate.  I hope the club and each member is doing what they can to
indoctrinate the next generation.

I was so overwhelmed by the sincerity and friendliness of everyone that
I'm making plans now, if not for Omaha next year, then for sure, South
Bend in 2007.  Hope to meet a bunch more of you all there.  Thanks to
everyone that took the time to chat.

Cheers,
Rich

Richard Morris
Renton, WA
1964 Avanti R-1 #5367
1990 Avanti 4-door #78