Editor's Corner

 

 


Building a Strong New England Club

by Frank Maldari
AONE Director

 

As we get ready for another driving season, I would like to make a few suggestions which will help to make our club stronger and our Alfas run better. The first is participation. You do not have to be a Director to organize or help out during an event. Take, for example, Jim Shorey of Mass AV, who supplied the audio and video equipment for our Winter Party. His contribution made for a great presentation. Many thanks, Jim and Mass AV! Also Paul Glynn of Glynn Motorsports, who has sponsored several tech sessions and swap meets. So if you have an idea or you would like to help out, just contact one of the Directors to get the ball rolling.

The second suggestion concerns our Alfas. Back about a year ago, I was faced with a dilemma: Either do some serious restoration on my car or drive it into the ground. I purchased my GTV-6 new and proceeded to drive it for 186K miles; therefore, it really did not owe me anything. The only major repair was replacing the engine after I neglected to replace the timing belt — ouch! Needless to say, I opted for the restoration and took the opportunity to change the color from black to red. Consider the benefits of restoring your Alfa before condemning it:

  1. Unlike a Porsche or BMW, you get an opportunity to drive a performance machine that you do not see coming in the opposite direction all the time. The same reason why you purchased an Alfa in the first place.
  2. Reasonable cost of ownership.
  3. Excellent local mechanics who know Alfas — check out their ads on this web site.
  4. A strong local club with plenty of camaraderie and support.

So take a look at your Alfa, start discussing your spring maintenance plans with our advertisers, and encourage them with your business.

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