The GWS Board decided to move the event to July this year. That turns out to have been a really good decision, as sunny skies greeted one of the biggest crowds seen in recent years at the annual GWS picnic and Eastern Regional Concours. Mild temperatures and a nice breeze made for a very comfortable day – especially under the shade of the trees. The good weather also brought out the largest field of Mercedes-Benz cars seen in recent years – some we've seen before and some new to the show. In addition to the usual picnic activities, we also had goodies for sale, a silent auction to benefit charity, a revival of the GWS Flea Market, and live music.

The annual picnic and regional concours is one of the most labor-intensive events of the year, and this year many volunteers pitched in to make the event a success. GWS President Bill Hopper served as chief food wrangler and cook. Bill was assisted at the grill by Kevin Michaels, and Charmaine Iversen helped prepare and serve the delicious burgers and bratwurst. Henry Harrell made sure we had a good selection of beverages on hand. GWS Secretary Marianne Lumsden and Social Chair Jim Glenn handled registration. Bobbie Wozney and Laurie Harrell ran the silent auction and GWS store with help from Sarah Lewis. Bill Lofquist and Joe Wozney handled the beverage service. JD Harriman and Charmaine Iversen did a terrific job on the Flea Market; both pitched in in other areas during the day.

With a large turnout for the Eastern Regional Concours, Chief Judge Ray Lombardo, Tim Tim Brischler, Sarah Lewis, John Heflin, Henry Harrell, and John McWilliams had to work hard out in the sun where it was a little warm. Work they did, and by 3 PM the judging team results had been tabulated and were ready for presentation. While the results were announced, the following award winners will have to wait a bit for their trophies.