Our first exploratory meeting was held in August 2004 with a group of CLC members in the immediate vicinity of Columbus, OH. The enthusiastic conclusion from that meeting was to form what would become the third region in the state of Ohio at that time.
At the time there were two regions, Western Reserve Region in Northeast Ohio and Buckeye Region in Southwest Ohio. Mike and Nancy Book looked at the CLC membership for Ohio and concluded there were enough members in the central Ohio area to potentially support a new region within the CLC. They took the lead and made contact with six to ten members in the area to survey the interest level. Based on the high level of interest from those surveyed Mike and Nancy set up the exploratory meeting and contacted potential members to notify them of this exploratory meeting.
After seeking approval from the existing regions and agreeing on zip code boundaries, we notified the CLC Central Region Vice President of our intent. Our first club newsletter was distributed in September 2004. The Central Region VP submitted a proposal to the CLC Board at their 2005 Winter Meeting to extend provisional status to our new region. After one year in provisional status and having met all requirements for activities, membership and club newsletters / communication our region was granted full region status at the 2006 Winter Board Meeting in Las Vegas.
The Central Ohio Region is a growing region with approximately 50 members. Our region will be hosting the CLC Grand National Meet in August 2011. With the newest addition of the Northwest Ohio Region we are one of four CLC regions in Ohio.
Like the international club, the Central Ohio Region is an automobile club consisting of members who share a common interest in the preservation and enjoyment of Cadillac and LaSalle automobiles. Throughout the year, Central Ohio club members participate in garage tours, brunches, dinners, parties, tour museums, view collections, and participate in driving tours and auto shows. This is part of what the collector car hobby is all about. As many international members say, while it is the cars that brought us together it is the fellowship and friendships that keep us together. If you have never attended a Grand National, you should! What a treat to kick tires and talk about your favorite marquee with other knowledgeable enthusiasts.
As has also been said, “A Grand National is like going to a family reunion with the part of the family you like!” Cadillac and LaSalle enthusiasts are invited to join the international organization. As a member of the International CLC, you are welcome to join the region nearest you.
