Reply to "FUN RALLY RAFFLE ISSUE"

Thank you Larry for the kind words and never ending support. I do what I do & did what I did because of friends & brothers just like you.

As you know, you are not alone in the outrage that so, so many others have expressed because of the actions of this new Director, (as he calls himself) Dave Rudderow.

But hey, if he's in charge and that's the way he wants it, so be it. It's really not a problem for me to take my toys and efforts elsewhere for the betterment of the Pantera community. There are other events that will welcome my efforts, support and what I can bring to the table.

I first viewed this an insult and a slap in the face considering what I've brought to the POCA table for the last 2 years. It was pretty upsetting considering I got this e-mail from Dave the day after returning from the event. It was like he couldn’t get home fast enough to send it. It just shows what an asshole he is.

Now, I'm OK with it and just have to consider the source. Small people need big titles so they can feel important. Such actions only serve to remind me that with some, that no matter what or how much you do, it's never enough.

However, ALL of us have to remember one thing. POCA is not made up by one person. It belongs to all of us as members. We are POCA. We can't let the stupid actions of a few people destroy the friendships we have with the others that don't feel the same way. That wouldn’t be right brother. And there is a lot of wonderfull people that make up POCA.

I've heard from Bob Reid, Judy DeRyke, POCA VP & Judy McCarthy, Membership Director for POCA several times and I continue to stay in touch with them over this situation. I like these people very much and consider them very dear friends. They are very much as insulted as I was to have received this. Maybe even more since they know me, have worked with me, know how hard I worked at this and the end results I achieved. I don't believe that it's over yet. But either way, I will honor their decisions and walk away if need be with the knowledge that I did the best I could do and know that I made a difference whether some appreciate it or not. Those that are really important to us know what I've done and sincerely appreciate those efforts. The rest can go F themselves.

As you heard me say at the raffle, Owning a Pantera is not all about the car, but the people we are fortunate to build life long relationships with. Many of which like you & I have become close and very dear friends. I wouldn't change that for anything and no matter what guys like Dave do, he can never change that either.

Dave Adler, George Pence & I have our own event coming up later this year on Sept. 30th & Oct. 1st that I am putting together for PI. This will be our first one. If it’s supported, there will be a second one the following year that will be bigger and grow into many other facets of activities that will bring more awareness, knowledge, togetherness and entertainment than can be imagined. Having several years experience at producing/promoting major entertainment events, I have only just begun with this one coming up.

It would have been nice to bring POCA and PI together in our efforts, God knows I've tired, but it appears this will just never be possible with guys like Dave Rudderow in charge of anything. Who knows, maybe one day, I’m not giving up hope……..

You did an incredible job putting the track event together this year Larry. It was a great time and very well run. Bill Santos would have been very proud of you. If POCA decides they don’t need my help with the Rally next year, I will still be at the track event. It will also be my honor to help you with your event if you want my help.

Thanks brother, you are a very valued and dear friend. Your support means a lot to me.
Coz