[chris vickery]

Guys, I must jump in on this one as it is a particular pet peeve of mine.
I have posted this before on this and other forums, as well as in communications with event sponsors.
I have never minded taking my toys out to an event, such as a local car show or a simple country drive on the weekend. The enjoyment of talking to interested people is fun for sure.
The difference is that this is solely my choice, and usually nearby my home.
Myself, as well as others have been asked to participate in outings such as parades, and of course if you know Ontario, Canada, it is a big piece of property.
Organizers and the public do not understand many things about us. It seems to me that most assume that our vintage military vehicles somehow magically get there, that they are climbing gyms for children, do not get the same respect as would someones beautiful 55 Chevy would etc. They do not understand rare parts and pieces, the money it costs us to restore, maintain insure or fuel up these beasts. Nor do they think about the weekend given up to come there, the meals, hotels, etc etc.
Now, of course this is a choice one must make, but herein lies my complaint.
You get organizers who do complain about lousy turnouts, squack at the hint of a "free" anything for participants, no thanks etc.
I was personally involved in one parade whereby one of the members who isn't too shy mentioned to the organizer about some sort of tidbit after we had arrived and participated, and it was like pulling teeth. The guy came up with four beer tickets for four guys. Wow.
Not all of us have the luxury of a million dollar bank account, or heavy trucks, trailers or transport for our vehicles.
The way I see it, if a group wants a parade, and request or invite us, there should be something in it. Afterall, at the end of it, it has still cost us money.
I was at the parade in Windsor for the grand opening of the new armoury in October. The military, city and local government officials were only too happy to get the parade they wanted.
Free accomodations at the armoury, some free tickets for the mess (which was fantastic), transport for vehicles from all over the province, free fuel for vehicles, a great time. Amazing parade with dozens of vehicles