Huntington Beach 2019? [Archive] - Factory Five Forums

David Hodgkins

12-28-2018, 09:26 PM

I don't mean to leave uncertainty in the air so let me explain a few realities about this event, from my perspective of running it last year.

This forum was the sole sponsor of last year's event. When I say sponsor, I mean WE paid ALL the bills. In terms of participation and overall experience, it was a massive hit. But the reality is we had to use the reserves gained from the fundraiser we had in January to pay for it. That was with all volunteers running the event and the band was free too! Permit$, required city per$onnel and event cost$ were HUGE!

A few lessons were learned - never, EVER do t-shirts in 4-color process!! Shiny trophies are EXPEN$IVE! Find co-sponsors!!!! Don't offer to pay ANYBODY'S hotel bill!

And I'm not including the pre-party BBQ in that equation b/c a few participants were kind enough to pay for the food.

I feel negligent for having to use the funds we had in reserve but the reality is that I had no idea what the actual cost of running one of these shows is.

So I'm feeling a little "once-bitten, twice shy".

We charged $40/entry last year. I figure we need to raise that to at least $75/entry to get near the break even point without additional sponsors. There are those that hear that and say "no one will pay $75 to be in a car show". Well, this isn't in a parking lot! We shut down Main Street for this event, and Huntington Beach gets a major chunk of change for granting that opportunity.

EDITORIAL/

Before anyone chimes in with "FFR should pay for it", let me just say again that this event costs a lot of money to produce. And - IN MY OPINION - for FFR to send resources out here, including personnel and their big rig, is asking them to spend a TON of money on folks that have already purchased their product is not facing the reality of what it takes to do that for little return on their investment. I can totally see them going to Barrett-Jackson and the Grand National Roadster show because they are putting their product on display for a TON of potential customers. But they are based in MA and have to travel the continent to make it out here. They simply can't afford to turn that exercise into a 2-month-long ordeal. This event adds 3 weeks to their west coast trip and that adds up to a real boat-load of money.

/EDITORIAL

So let's hear it from you folks:

Will you cancel your trip out to HB to save $40? Is $75 or even $100 too high of a price to pay for this event? If it is to you, I want to hear it!

Will any vendors step up to help sponsor the event? (Lots of nice companies were included in the flyer last year, but FFR made those, we didn't.)

Again, this is ME speaking. Not FFR. Please let me know your thoughts on this, either in this thread or via PM if you want to privately discuss your thoughts.

:)

SSNK4US

12-28-2018, 09:56 PM

My wife had a thought.... has anyone ever hit up any of the businesses on Main Street for any kind of help? I would think with the influx of people on the street they do more business? Just a beginning thought.

Kurt

Big Blocker

12-29-2018, 12:07 AM

Dave,

Guess I'm not the only one jumping in early here, asking about HB 2019. I was going to wait until at least late Feb . . .

My thoughts, we had gatherings long before "Main Street" came about. We, over time, progressed to that location. We started at the upper parking lot to the north of the pier 13 years ago with reserved spots for 50, 80 showed up. The numbers have been climbing every year and the necessity to find a larger "parking" area became priority one. We could go back to that if all else fails, I know we could fill the upper and part of the lower lots.

It's nice to get [very expensive] trophies when someone wins but smaller ones that aren't so elaborate would be just as good to the ones that do win . . . instead of the sponsors giving away their products as raffle prizes, have them make donations to the event.

The single color shirts, like the earlier years, worked just as well to celebrate our attendance - I know, I have all of them. Please don't take that as any kind of slight on what your son designed last year, that one is by far my favorite. I have a whole closet of single color shirts from past years right next to it . . .

The year we gathered on the sand strip turned out to be a smaller show but there were more than enough participants to make it GREAT!

These are just my personal feeling about what we call the Huntington Beach Cruise-In. I truly believe that the people make the show and I'm reasonably sure that if the "gathering" turned out to be nothing more than just that, there would still be a ton of Cobra's, Coupe's, Hot Rods, GTM's , 818's and trucks showing up. It really is a "family gathering" as opposed to a "car show". I don't need all the toots-n-whistles to make this event off the chart . . .

Helping you with the logistics; food, drink, crowd control, parking attendants, whatever has never been an issue for the Vegas Guys - we're here to back you up with whatever gets put together.

Doc

ronsdream

12-29-2018, 06:23 AM

I've never traveled to HB before and was hopefully planning to go this year. I joined the forum a year ago and built my MK4 this year. I also donated to the forum during the year. I'm a numbers guy and normally go by budgets and looking at the deficits when they happen. Can you release $ numbers so I (we) can put it in perspective? How much was raised during the fundraiser? What was the budget for the HB event ALL IN. What was the total cost? How much of the reserve was used and what is left?

I'm willing to be part of the HB planning committee if you can use someone on the east coast.

I really enjoy the FAMILY experience with FFR and want to do my part and help when necessary.

Ron

Straversi

12-29-2018, 10:17 AM

I attended once before I ordered my car. Invaluable opportunity to ask questions and help plan a build.
I attended once while building. Met more people, learned a few tricks, picked a final paint color.
Exhibited last year as a work in progress. $40 entry, $100 trailer rental. Was it worth it? Absolutely!

It’s not a car show or a cars and coffee, it is really a great event and an opportunity to meet builders and share experiences with peers.

Dave, charge what you need to charge. Ask for the help you need. Let’s keep it going and growing.

There’s no fee or entry price to attend, only to exhibit. How about selling “forum passes” on the forum for $25 for people attending but not exhibiting. Give them a badge that identifies them as a builder/ forum member rather than somebody just walking up from the beach? It would be voluntary but it would give attendees who are not exhibiting a chance to support the event and share in the sense of community. I would have gladly paid a voluntary entry fee the first couple of times I attended.

-Steve

SSNK4US

12-29-2018, 12:20 PM

Steve X2 ��

Kurt

7tvette

12-29-2018, 12:58 PM

Hi Dave,

You know my thoughts on how much I love the HB show! The HB show has to pay for itself, with no dipping into the kitty or personal pockets to make it work. An entry fee of $75 or $100 is not unreasonable as this is not an everyday car show. Its a Family Reunion. You and your family have been incredible in making my dreams of coming to HB each year a reality (6 years now). Your families hospitality is over the top. I know its hard, but ask for help. We are family.

Troy

CDXXVII

12-29-2018, 01:14 PM

Dave Hodgkins

I think that what you did last year was amazing and is really invaluable to Factory Five Racing. The Huntington Beach event was the reason I took the plunge and purchased my Mk4. Most of my friends driving Factory Five's got bit at the HB Event. It is wrong to think that Factory Five does not benefit greatly from this event given that it is the only West Coast Event of this magnitude. I understand that there is a huge cost when they bring out the Big Rig but Dave Smith did attend last year without the huge overhead and I am sure still sold a few kits in the process. I would gladly pay a bit more to attend but I also feel that Factory Five should also help out and not leave you and The Factory Five Forum to foot the bill.

I know that I may offend a few from making the above statement but the Huntington Beach event is all about Factory Five and not "open" to all makes and models. I know we "include" everyone and there was at least one ERA and perhaps one Backdraft there but this is still one day where Huntington Beach Main Street screams "Factory Five Racing"

"Before anyone chimes in with "FFR should pay for it", let me just say again that this event costs a lot of money to produce. And - IN MY OPINION - for FFR to send resources out here, including personnel and their big rig, is asking them to spend a TON of money on folks that have already purchased their product is not facing the reality of what it takes to do that for little return on their investment. I can totally see them going to Barrett-Jackson and the Grand National Roadster show because they are putting their product on display for a TON of potential customers. But they are based in MA and have to travel the continent to make it out here. They simply can't afford to turn that exercise into a 2-month-long ordeal. This event adds 3 weeks to their west coast trip and that adds up to a real boat-load of money."

SSNK4US

12-29-2018, 03:49 PM

I’m not saying FFR should pay for anything, I’m not going there.... but I’ve (we’ve) been to a few HB shows (3 hr drive).
Last year I got to sit in Dave’s brothers Trojan (Fight on!) so I could see if my big butt would fit in a roadster. Yes it did. This year I talked to a guy who’s license plate said 6foot7 or 6foot6. He fit, it was a major worry for me. I also got to talk to a bunch of people from the forum. Then at the end of the show I talked to Dave Smith and Jeff Kleiner for a few.
We pulled the trigger less then a month later. MK4 sold from the show... just saying....

Kurt

ACCar-guy

12-29-2018, 07:36 PM

I can understands everyone's position, What a great location! Without FFR direct support the work is extensive and with some risk to the owner base (thanks Dave H). My suggestion is we promote The Peterson Museum hosting the event in their parking lot. They have a current display of Southern California racing technology. We could tag on the Shelby connection to their campaign. FFR (sales) would actually benefit more from the global exposure the Peterson has. Their annual Shelby Cruise In is this Sunday Jan. 6. Just a thought.

Ray

12-29-2018, 08:21 PM

I've spoken with several of the store owners/managers over the last few years. Other than the restaurant folks, the other stores aren't really pleased with the various events that close the street. Apparently the City allows several events during the "season" on Main St. during the year and the feeling is that it disrupts business.

If we could find a local park, school etc. that we could obtain a less expensive permit for.....

Ray

Big Blocker

12-29-2018, 10:13 PM

Going along with Ray's thoughts, the Pomona fair grounds [area] has the Hot Rod Museum (or at least it used to) and there has been several "gatherings" held there that have been successful . . . I think the old Knotts show moved there since the new owners of Knotts raised the price of the AHA show.
Also, Santa Anita Race Track (horses) has an enormous parking lot (just sitting there empty) and they might be in their off-season in April. Their event calendar doesn't show anything for the end of April.
OR - how about the LA Arboretum, parking on the grass but I'm sure they are pretty limited to attendance limits - just thinking outside the box for a moment.

Doc

Just puttering

01-01-2019, 12:54 AM

... Permit$, required city per$onnel and event cost$ were HUGE!

... And I'm not including the pre-party BBQ in that equation b/c a few participants were kind enough to pay for the food.

...Well, this isn't in a parking lot! We shut down Main Street for this event, and Huntington Beach gets a major chunk of change for granting that opportunity.

...This event adds 3 weeks to their west coast trip and that adds up to a real boat-load of money.

Here are a couple of pictures to put it in perspective for those that have not attended.

The BBQ was awesome! I hope it continues as a tradition. Just mention what you need and I'm sure everyone coming would help with the BBQ.

Can the cruise in move to a date that corresponds with the FFR west coast schedule?

Thank you David for all that you do!

Erik

2yrproject

01-03-2019, 09:18 PM

My thoughts:

1. I've attended the past 6 HB shows and although the location is pretty scenic, it seems like time to prioritize. I'm sure none of the attendees would complain about a location change without the major fees for street closures.
2. The whole purpose of the show (in my mind) is an annual reunion of FFR owners.
3. When I attended the 10th anniversary Open House, it was an informal affair with burgers/dogs, kids play area and a dyno. Just the essentials. My vote is to simplify this show.
4. Costs can be significantly cut by hosting at a public venue with minimal fees and ask our community for help. I'm sure if you asked for volunteers, you could delegate tasks and ask owners to chip in to make it all happen. I bet owners would even volunteer to make or provide a trophy for each category of winners.

In short, if you were to take a vote, you would find owners willing to change the location, tone down the bells and whistles, and reduce costs in order to save the event. It would be a mistake to cancel the show.

bwwooster

01-05-2019, 03:41 PM

How about Marina Green Park in Long Beach, where the Japanese Classic Car Show does its thing each September?

https://www.japaneseclassiccarshow.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/visitor-map.jpg

There's also a vintage race event happening at Fontana during that time frame:
https://svra.com/events/2019-southern-california-historic-sports-car-festival/

Paul G

01-05-2019, 11:05 PM

David,
First off, you and the others that helped last year did an excellent job last year. I live in Arizona. I have been to a number of these events in California, many Knotts Berry Farm Shows, more than half on the HB shows. I remember a number of hot days at Knotts, then driving down to HB for the FFR show, what a big temp change. I like the location, there are many hotels in the area, making the drive short to and from the show, a big help in the event of rain. Anything near the beach is going to cost more money, paying $75-80 for a once a year show in that location to me is worth it. While moving inland may be cheaper there is downsides to that, like the temps, if I want I hot I can stay home. Getting to and from HB is not a bad trip, going towards LA more like Peterson Auto Museum is a bit more of a challenging. There are a number performance related business in the LA area, Edelbrock, Vortech for example. Ford dealership that sells a lot performance parts, may be possible candidates for some sponsorship. What will be will be, we are planning on coming out for what ever gets done. Thank again for last year.

ronsdream

01-12-2019, 06:44 AM

Dave, I left you a PM a while back about 2019.
Have you had a chance to read it?

I would like to help if I can.

Ron

Jazzman

01-14-2019, 12:26 AM

Well I should have read this before I just sent you my PM, but I will chime in: YES! The event is worth $75-$100 to me to attend each year. I would be willing to help in any way asked. The event is important. The location is wonderful, but not absolutely critical. I would lean toward keeping it on Main Street in HB, but again, not absolutely critical. Dave, you and your family did an amazing job last year! Now let us help you. Choose a team of committed people to help run the event with you. I am quite sure I am not alone in my desire to help out the event.

Dave Howard

01-14-2019, 02:55 AM

I've never been to the HB show and probably never will.....there's still snow on the ground in Northern Ontario that time of year and I won't upset anyone with further comments abouts trailering. Haha, ruffled enough feathers.
Here's a suggestion though to try to keep the trophy cost down. I was at a show a few years ago, and the award trophies were made out of pistons. The connection rod was tacked in vertical position. The entire piece was powder coated a brassy gold colour and the plaque was round and mounted in the crank shaft eye of the rod. These things were SWEET.

Big Blocker

01-14-2019, 06:07 PM

Maybe some other beach town . . .

Mark Joy

01-15-2019, 08:57 PM

I get that it is held in HB because that's Dave's hometown and frankly, the location is great because you can get about anywhere on foot. Having said that, having it practically anywhere else would make it closer to practically everyone else that doesn't live on the west coast. If the location were to move I think it should be in someone's hometown so they know the lay of the land and great locations for ancillary events. (ie cruse, barbeque etc).

Personally, I think Dave did such a great job last year that I would have no issues with going back to HB. I understand that Factory Five isn't in a position to bankroll the whole thing but I know for a fact that one guy bought a 33 kit and told me specially that it was the result of a conversation that we had and how my car looked that put him over the top and he ordered the kit the very next week. My point is that there is a sales component to the show that could justify a undetermined percentage of the cost to be picked up by Factory Five. There's a big difference between paying the entire bill and paying ~ 20% of the bill. Couple that with the $75 -100 registration that many replying to the thread have already suggested AND charge $10 - 15 bucks for the barbeque and I believe it's certainly doable. I know I'd pay it.....

OnlyAndy

01-15-2019, 09:35 PM

Hey Mark,,,, "I" am that guy and could not be happier with my decision and YES, the HB event took me off the fence and I placed my order. AND got 50% off options on the sale they had going at the time. Good timing for me. Even met Dave Smith in the street that day and told him why I was there. He told me,,, NO DOUBT,,,, I would move on the kit. I am a BUILT not bought guy and I have gotten near the limit of my talent level a couple times but,,, no hurry. Forum is great help and lots of good ideas to boot. Working through my little issues and learning as I go,,, Keeps this old man busy and all my friends ask me about the car every time I see them. A group of high school Buds are coming over next month just to see the car. Huntington Beach is good but another location could be just as good. After all its the cars and people who make it great. Handle is onlyandy, its a nickname, but real name is Dana... ( I know, just a 4 letter word. ) Anyway, good times, good cars and good people. Proud to be aboard and,,, still like your 33'.

JohnK

01-16-2019, 02:38 AM

Since we're throwing out ideas for alternate locations, I'll throw one in as well. The Rolex Monterey Motorsport Reunion (formerly know as the Laguna Seca Historic Automobile Races) is held every year in late August on the same weekend as the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. I've been out there several times with my son, and it's a wonderful event. The last time I was out there Hillbank were there with a large assortment of Superformance cobras and GT40's. Of course, seeing real Shelby Cobras out on the track, and being able to check them out up close in the paddocks was beyond thrilling. The race has make-specific parking 'corrals' (AMG, Ferrari, Porsche, BMW, etc.). If there was a Factory Five corral where owners could drive in with their cars, that would be awesome. I'm sure the FFR truck and display would be very well-received there, and draw a huge crowd. Just my $0.02.

Here was the Hillbank 'booth':

100797

and here are a few real Cobras in the paddocks:

100798

Mark Dougherty

01-16-2019, 08:38 AM

I would pay 75$ entry fee. and bring my steering wheel with me on the flight.
LOL

Having it at that venue makes no difference to me. there are so many great places to see out there.
Moving the event helps bring in new faces who may not enjoy the long drives.

I really enjoyed when FFR piggybacked other events like with NASA, SCCA, SVRA, Goodguys London Cobra show, Texas Cobra show ETC.
Having a corral at the event. It gives you something else to look at like the former FFR Challenge series.

I like how FFR keeps the open house costs down with a on site BBQ. maybe a food truck or 2 or 3

as far as trophy's I think you can defiantly keep the costs down there also.

As for the Band They make these awesome batt. powered sync able Bluetooth speakers. use your play list on your I PAD.
just saying great ways to save a ton of money and still have a great event.

For me the event is about getting together with a ton of my favorite people, and cars.
the rest is filler.

Just some thoughts.

acmikee

01-16-2019, 12:17 PM

what about crashing the party in Anaheim april 14...

http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=hfdulvlab&oeidk=a07efwilrcg7ddbd1d5

Jazzman

01-16-2019, 12:34 PM

It seems pretty clear from the tenor of the previous posts that "some event, somewhere" is favored. Location in Huntington Beach is very nice, but pricey. A move to some other location would inherently be beneficial for some, detrimental to others, and bring a lot of unknowns into the equation. There is one factor that is critical to the success of such an event: a very committed leader. Many thanks have been lauded upon David Hodgkins and family, and rightly so! Without him, the 2018 event simply would not have happened. If the event is moved to any other location that is unknown to David or further than about an hour from his home, it will significantly compound an already very difficult job. (yes, in LA freeway time that means 10 miles away from his house!!! ;) ) Many good suggestion have been made for alternative locations, but none have the distinct advantage of "David's convenient leadership". To be clear, I cannot speak for David, and I don't want to volunteer him for something he does not want, but he clearly is an exceptional organizer and loyal supporter of the event and thus far has not said he does not want to be a part of it.

If any event is to happen anywhere, it seems clear that some changes need to be considered:
1. There needs to be a core of committed individuals to work as a committee to organize and run the event. In the past it sounds like FFR did some of this work. David cannot do it alone. I will cast my support and energy to assisting in the planning and execution of the event if asked.
2. The committee must have a very committed leader to make sure everything comes together.
3. The location should grow out of the proximity to the leader. It must be well known to the leader and easily accessible for him.
4. FFR should be expected to contribute to some level. It is advertising for their product and they do benefit from the event. (And we are all glad they do!!) Exactly how much and what form this support should take is certainly up for discussion.

One of the advantages of continuing to hold the event in Huntington Beach is the "momentum" of the event. I put HB in the last weekend of April in my calendar at the beginning of each year. I have family and friends in the southern california area that put it in their calendars as well. We have growing relationships with the hotels in the area. The longer the event stays put, the better likelyhood that larger groups of participants and spectators will come to the show year after year. This is good for the businesses in the area and good for FFR. While David endured a trial by fire last year, this year he already knows what to do, what not to do, and where he needs to ask for help. Any other location and leader would inherently require a completely new learning curve for everyone.

I would like to see Huntington Beach work.

Eespensen

01-25-2019, 12:11 PM

Any updates on the event? I need to clear my schedule and plan hotel, transport etc? Thank you!

Mark Gearhart

02-04-2019, 08:59 PM

I'd gladly pay $75 to keep the HB location.

frankeeski

02-04-2019, 11:25 PM

With a little more than 2-1/2 months to go and the fact that Factory 5 skipped the Grand National Roadster Show this year, things aren't looking great right now. If they (Factory 5) or someone else (David Hodgkins) is going to work on putting the HB Show on this year, a decision really needs to made here pretty quick. This way folks can plan for time off, make reservations for rooms and make travel plans..................................There have been rumors circling here recently that owners may just end up showing up, paying their $10 for parking and taking over the Pier Plaza parking lot on the chosen Saturday the last weekend of April (similar to what transpired in the beginning). No trophies, no t-shirts, just a bunch of cool cars and owners hanging out at the beach.

CDXXVII

02-04-2019, 11:52 PM

Sound good to me. I think less formal equals more fun. Hopefully this gets decided soon. I’m in either way.

With a little more than 2-1/2 months to go and the fact that Factory 5 skipped the Grand National Roadster Show this year, things aren't looking great right now. If they (Factory 5) or someone else (David Hodgkins) is going to work on putting the HB Show on this year, a decision really needs to made here pretty quick. This way folks can plan for time off, make reservations for rooms and make travel plans..................................There have been rumors circling here recently that owners may just end up showing up, paying their $10 for parking and taking over the Pier Plaza parking lot on the chosen Saturday the last weekend of April (similar to what transpired in the beginning). No trophies, no t-shirts, just a bunch of cool cars and owners hanging out at the beach.

Jeff Kleiner

02-05-2019, 06:38 AM

This from Dave a few days ago:

"I think we have so much on our plate that HB will not happen. The good news is that Sally did reserve the date for 2020 because that will be a HUGE party for our 25th Anniversary."

Jeff

Big Blocker

02-06-2019, 12:11 PM

I'm for what Frank said above - showing up and taking over the upper (and maybe lower) parking lots at the pier. That's how we started this event many, many years ago.
I can [always] buy another T-shirt from F5, I can absolutely afford $10-$20 bucks for parking, don't need another trophy, and Ruby's is right there at the end of the pier . . . I'm in.
Any chance we can contact the parking lot owners and "reserve" the spots? I now if we get some kind of pre commit to spaces "rented", we should be able to pull this off (again).

For me, it's all about the people and the [old] friends I'll see and the new ones I'll make . . .

Doc

Dave Smith

02-06-2019, 02:34 PM

Guys,

I don’t post often, but after some long and serious consideration I think we cannot host the annual HB cruise-in this year. Please allow me to explain.

Short answer: We are slammed and I want to focus my team energies closer to home this year while we work diligently on the projects we have to complete.

Long answer: Last year Dave H (here from the forum) and many customers came together to host this event. It was fun and I came out for the day to help and Factory Five kicked in some money (not a ton) but we were so busy back at home with a really full plate of projects that a week on the road with the big rig and our team doing the show the way we had for years was just not possible.

This year is even worse (better depending on how you look at it) with respect to new products and projects. The Hot Rod Truck and new Gen 3 Coupe are doing well and the investment I’ve made in surfacing and VR/3D design is going to net some impressive new models. We bought Rats glass hot rods and their 8 (!) models are being evaluated on our chassis right now and there is pressure to supply existing product to existing Rats Glass customers. We are bringing on board an all-new materials/MRP/Operating system that will better manage inventory (back orders) and also provide the full range of Operating System modules we need like an integrated sales order desk/web site catalog and improved sales history and tracking, linked inventory, updated and streamlined and integrated accounting and general ledger functions. This is a massive year-long project. We are already working on cars for SEMA and our partnership with Ford has never been stronger. Our partnerships with other companies is also presenting us with new opportunities to make our cars better, faster, and stronger. Lastly, I have (typical reach exceed grasp guy) green lighted several exciting new products to be launched in 2020 on our 25th Anniversary. I desperately want to save our powder on HB this year and celebrate with a proper party next year as it will be 25 years since I left 1505 Olive Street in Huntington Beach with my wife and baby daughter to start Factory Five. We are already planning 25th year anniversary products and events and HB is the crown jewel. Sally has already secured April 25th for 2020 and we are hoping to make it a two-day event with a Saturday night awards dinner nearby (we did a small event back in 2000 after Knotts Berry Farm show at the HB Hilton).

If you guys want to do a local cruise or keep the faith I would seriously consider coming out just to have fun for the day, but as it stands, I am swinging for the fences on some very ambitious projects that will make sure Factory Five celebrates 25 years at HB in style and that the company is here 25 years from now. I am sorry to have had to make this decision and I also don’t feel that it is fair to ask Dave or you all to take up the slack. I WILL ask for help next year, but it will be helping me raise a glass to celebrate 25 years of writing this amazing story, building this amazing community with you all, and building an iconic American motor sports company.

CVOBill

02-06-2019, 04:02 PM

Dave,
Thanks for the update and I will plan on driving Hot Rod #304 from Ohio to Huntington Beach in 2020 for the party

David Hodgkins

02-06-2019, 04:27 PM

As you may have noticed, I have been quiet on this thread until I had and absolute, Final FINAL answer from Dave about this year's show.

Last year the forum was able to produce the show, but it lost a lot of money. The thought of raising prices and then delivering a day that was "less" than last year (cheaper shirts, smaller trophies, oompa loompa band/no DJ) would cheapen the experience so many have come to expect.

One thing we could do, and that I can look into immediately, is perhaps having a get-together in the upper lot like we've had in the years past. That way the numbers don't have to be guaranteed and we can avoid all of the permit issues that plagued the event last year.

We could also keep the unofficial Friday night BBQ.

Thoughts?

:)

slpro1207

02-06-2019, 05:35 PM

Upper lot or Main Street I’ll be there. Let me know what I can do to help. It’s all about family.

Straversi

02-06-2019, 05:51 PM

I’m in.
-Steve

GoDadGo

02-06-2019, 06:29 PM

Darn!

Garry Bopp

02-07-2019, 02:42 PM

Dave,

I will put April 25th, 2020, Huntington Beach, CA on my calendar. May have to bring my car out for this one!

Garry

David Hodgkins

02-07-2019, 09:19 PM

I spoke with HB this afternoon. There is another car show happening on the pier on the 27th. They have been booked for some time and were going to be there regardless of whether we were on Main Street or not. I've made an inquiry to piggy-back on it and use the upper parking lot, north of the pier. We have used it several times in the past.

Same date, 4/27/2019. May involve a donation to the surf museum.

I should hear back tomorrow.

:)

Big Blocker

02-07-2019, 10:39 PM

Dave, If you need a couple of old farts to get to the upper lot early to reserve spots, I know a guy or two that would be there for you (the Vegas Boys) . . . I'm in, no matter where we gather. We will also bring whatever "supplies" you might need to continue the BBQ tradition. We drive in on Thursday, stay til Monday so we will be there for whatever comes about.

Any "donations" to the Surf Museum that are needed are No Problemo . . .

Doc

ronsdream

02-08-2019, 07:02 AM

As a first timer, my wife and I would love to attend the event this year no matter how it turns out. We would love to meet those that attend and get a face to name recognition. Can you recommend hotels?

Thanks

Ron

R. Button

02-08-2019, 01:58 PM

I know of an east coast guy that might consider driving out... if the plans for the "event" firm up. I think the ol'Mark I still has a few more miles in her!

Jeff Kleiner

02-08-2019, 08:01 PM

How does the London Cobra Show do it?

Totally different deal Arvin. Part of the proceeds come from the participants' $100 registration fee and another small portion from the vendors who pay to display their products but a much larger part of the total is through the sale of tens of thousands of raffle tickets for the giveaway car that are sold at 20 bucks a pop throughout the year leading up to the event. All of the show expenses (any non donated raffle car parts or services, promotion, police and street department costs, municipal permits, venue charges, tents, catering of the dinner, security, etc.) are deducted from the money taken in and then the surplus/profit is donated to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. This donation is historically in excess of $100,000 every year.

Jeff

BB767

02-09-2019, 04:10 AM

Just made my hotel reservations for the big show in 2020.

UnhipPopano

02-10-2019, 11:41 AM

I have more experience than I would like to admit to in the form of Volunteer activities for putting on shows and events and some of the knowledge gained might be useful. First, every event needs to be well managed and the expectation is that it should be profitable to bankroll the next event. Having no money and not enough active volunteers is a killer and sounds like that this is the case. As for the T shirts, they are key to selling sponsorship and advertising the next event. The place to start is a design that people will feel proud to ware out in public. Think of it as mobile bill boards. If you have a couple of members that have an advertising background, then they are gold. You need to be able to sell space to vendors. The income from Vendors and Sponsors should pay for most of your costs. It also helps to be able to charge admission to the public.

Also, it takes a lot of time and manpower in the preparation and planning to do any type of show right. Thrown together at the last minute is a sure fire way to burn out your volunteers and lose your shirt.

If you target a 2020 show, then now is the time to get started.

289FIA_Cobra

02-11-2019, 11:43 PM

DaveH... over the years, you've been the most gracious of hosts I could ever ask for. I always enjoy your BBQ and honestly, if I knew this was a financial burden, just ask! Me and the Mrs. have no problem pitching in.

This year for me is a bit tough as it seems Playstation is getting far too busy for me to go for a few days. Last year was the same... (maybe I need a new employer!) Regardless, I would gladly pay $100 for such an event. One other thing to consider is perhaps, make this an every-other-year event, using the time to plan for other sites and more fund raisers, if that's something people don't mind. Also, I'm in for a change of scenery - I've NEVER been to Pomona much less the Petersen Museum. ;)

Gsnipe

02-13-2019, 02:29 PM

Fredscoupe

03-08-2019, 11:08 PM

I just finished my Gen 2 Type 65 Coupe and think the $40,000 invested warrants at least another $100.00 to show it off. I live in Washington state and am willing to drive all the way to Huntington Beach for the show.

JohnK

03-08-2019, 11:23 PM

Super sad to hear there will be no Huntington Beach event this year. The past two years have been awesome.

A group of us are going to put together a Factory Five gathering in the Bay Area soon. Details are fuzzy right now but hoping to host in the next few months.

If you are interested in attending, join the FB group: Factory Five Bay Area (https://www.facebook.com/groups/234955497054098/).

-Brandon

Hey Brandon,

I'm in the south bay (Los Gatos) and I'd love to attend whatever gathering you organize. I'm not on FB so please do post up whatever you organize in the NorCal regional forum.

-John

progmgr1

03-09-2019, 05:08 PM

I suggest that you publish notice of this party in the "General Discussions" forum or similar. With no HB cruise-in this year, folks from SoCal, AZ, etc. might be interested in going up to SF for a change. Any excuse for a road trip! Keith

Arvin

03-10-2019, 09:00 AM

Can someone please post exactly what is going on. I would like to attend but reserve driving the car for 2020 so I need to make airline and hotel reservations ASAP. (And maybe a ride in the morning and back to my hotel when it’s done

Alan_C

03-31-2019, 09:36 AM

Although not the Huntington Beach venue, those more local you could consider attending the Fabulous Fords Forever show. This year they have moved the show to Anaheim Stadium, so there is room for a lot more cars. The show is scheduled for Sunday April 14th, 2019. This would be one option, on a smaller scale of course, to save a Factory Five owners get together for this year.

http://www.fabulousfordsforever.com/

Big Blocker

03-31-2019, 11:36 AM

Sounds perfect to me . . . Date is the 14th instead of the 27th.

Doc

crash

04-01-2019, 02:15 PM

I've been twice and the comments about the local retailers not really giving us a friendly welcome are absolutely true. We got yelled at by a store owner or employee(?) for standing in his doorway for a couple of minutes a couple years back when it started to sprinkle. He said we were blocking his doorway and customers could not get in. His clothing store was 100% empty and I guess he was blaming us, and I didn't get the feeling he was talking about just the two of us that were under his awning.

A couple of times now I have suggested to Dave Smith that he look at combining this event with a track day event at Fontana. I even emailed him the contact information for my friend that owns Hooked On Driving and operates track day events all over the country. It seems to me that a lot of FFR folks would love to stretch the legs of their cars in a way that only a race track offers, and Fontana is unique for its top speed abilities.

Anyway, I am sad that the HB event is not happening, think that a cheaper event should still be a great success, and hope that the 2020 event kicks off some new format that brings in even more owners and people and turns into an even better event than we have had in the past. Some place where the surrounding businesses are more friendly to a motorsports crowd would be nice.

GoDadGo

04-01-2019, 02:34 PM

Consider Moving It To Bay St. Louis Mississippi!
They might be willing to take on a little Factory Five Fun for one weekend in the spring.
Here's what that little town looked like this past October for Cruising The Coast:

https://youtu.be/MTOl15hGaPo

Dwmaurer86

04-06-2019, 04:27 PM

Sounds like a great show

letsgosteelers

04-27-2019, 02:13 PM

Sounds like a great show

so what did you all decide to do today?

DadofThree

05-01-2019, 12:37 PM

Here's an alternative for you guys, that I just saw in the ReiCARnation magazine. I realize it isn't the same, but It'd be something to attend while someone else does the heavy lifting.

https://www.rcnmag.com/news/kit-car-specialty-vehicle-show

Show Flyer (https://www.automobiledrivingmuseum.org/event/kit2019/)

ehansen007

05-01-2019, 05:52 PM

I'm sure the Kit car show would love to have you guys. They might even be overwhelmed at getting the overflow. It's always been a good show. I liked it most at the Wally Parks museum but El Segundo is great too. Good idea there.

ACCar-guy

05-10-2019, 12:36 PM

For those that missed my post on the separate SoCal Kit Car Show thread, SoCal Cobra Club's Annual Car Show at Grape Day Park Escondido is Saturday June 29. Register at www.socalsaac.org. Ford Performance specialty construction and replicas are encouraged.

Deane

Sally Bean

05-10-2019, 01:46 PM

I'm doing my usual pre-start of the year iCal typing and was wondering whether a date has yet been set for the HB show-- I couldn't find it in a search-- does anyone know? Maybe this year I can make it!

Thanks from Northern California!

Hi There -

Thank you for your interest in our HB event. Unfortunately, this year we aren't having a show in HB but there's a very good reason why......

Next year will be Factory Five Racing's 25th anniversary and we are planning quite the event to celebrate. It will be on Saturday, April 25, 2020 and along with our super fun Cruise-In to Main Street, we are planning a great evening event that will be held at one of the beautiful waterfront hotels in the area (to be announced). We are still bouncing around ideas for a Sunday morning cruise and that is still to be determined.

Please feel free to email me directly at sally@factoryfive.com.

Take care -

Sally Bean

DSR-3

09-09-2019, 11:57 AM

Hi There -

Thank you for your interest in our HB event. Unfortunately, this year we aren't having a show in HB but there's a very good reason why......

Next year will be Factory Five Racing's 25th anniversary and we are planning quite the event to celebrate. It will be on Saturday, April 25, 2020 and along with our super fun Cruise-In to Main Street, we are planning a great evening event that will be held at one of the beautiful waterfront hotels in the area (to be announced). We are still bouncing around ideas for a Sunday morning cruise and that is still to be determined.

Please feel free to email me directly at sally@factoryfive.com.

Take care - Sally Bean

Any news/updates on this?
Thanks