Two Corvairs passed each other during
the morning commute each day. The drivers waved to each other every
time, in wordless solidarity at a time when the Corvair's public image was
tarnished by the safety allegations.
Finally, the two drivers stopped and introduced themselves. Their
conversation turned quickly to the likelihood that there were more people like
them, enthusiastic Corvair owners. And so these two men, Dean Jaech and
Joe Petrella, organized the New Jersey Association of Corvair Enthusiasts.
Dean chaired the first official
meeting on June 30, 1970. Thirteen persons attended. Thirty years
later membership stood at more than 100 member households.
Along the way, NJACE aligned itself with CORSA, the Corvair Society of
America, as CORSA's New Jersey Chapter. NJACE became a founding club in
the Northeast Corvair Council in 1974, and in 1984 NJACE was the host chapter
for the annual CORSA Convention. In 2005 NJACE celebrated the 35
anniversary of its founding.
How is it that NJACE has lasted all these years and today remains a healthy
organization with a full membership roll, a solid bank account, and a full
activities schedule? The answer is simply, "people." The club is
about the cars, but the members have made the club.
Our members love their cars but keep it in perspective. No
string-back driving gloves; no reverent talk of a far away city inhabited by
supernatural craftsmen; no elaborate rituals over the car. Just good
clean fun, friendship, and respect for one another's tastes and efforts.
Here's to the next thirty-five years!
