News from the Palace – SHOW OF DREAMS / NORMA KARLE
Good evening everyone,
I know that we have all experienced the shock of Norma’s passing in our own way over the last week. I hope that you are all doing well.
Norma has been with British Cars of New Hampshire since 1996; nearly thirty years. She was one of the key people in getting the first Show of Dreams off the ground in 1997. I had gotten off a 747 that morning in mid June after an extended UK holiday – then,home from Logan Airport and jet lagged, I hopped in my 1976 Triumph Spitfire to attend the very first Show of Dreams. It was a resounding success, as has every one since then.
Like *most* of our British cars, Norma was a high performance individual. She brought skills and expertise to a very young car club and made it even better. I’ll miss her wit, personality, can-do attitude, and the ability to make your car perform – especially if she was leading a drive.
This year’s Show of Dreams was canceled – the only time since the Covid pandemic. A longtime, essential member of the Hierarchy has passed away and without question,that should be enough reason.
Norma was a key member of the Show of Dreams and crucial to the running of the show as is every member of the Show of Dreams Committee.
To expect the excellence and 110% that our SOD members give every year to show participants within a week after such a tragic loss would be a disservice to all involved.
After discussion with show leaders,I made the very hard decision to cancel the show and have absolutely no regrets in doing so. The NH Food Bank,who is the recipient of the funds raised at the SOD, understands the gravity of our loss – there will always be another year. It is my hope that you understand as well.
I know the disappointment of planning for something you enjoy every year and having it taken away. This is bigger than any of us – and regardless of the cause we raise money for, the reality is it is just a car show. Norma, as a person, and her memory, is much more important than that.
Mike
Crackerbox Palace
No Weare-In-Particular