Every once in a while, I have posted articles entitled “Not About Cars” (with varying subject matter). On the eighth birthday of Canadian Rodder, I think it’s fitting to post 2008’s edition of Not About Cars.
As I have noted on numerous occasion, the reason I selected Canadian Rodder as the name of the site (and not Canadian Rods, etc.) was to place emphasis on the rodder. That is, the people that make up this hobby – and industry. Sure, the cars are cool. After all, they bring us together and are our common interest. But, we’re people first and I’m constantly reminded of that.
In 2003, the Canadian Rodder forum was launched and the larger “community” was born. Local and regional groups have come together and we have met and made friends – I dare say from all over the world. There have been events, both large and small, that have galvanized our sense of community – from the chop of David Brown’s Lincoln to the 2007 Canadian Hot Rod Tour.
More recently there have been several occasions where individuals from all over our domain have received an outpouring of concern and encouragement relative to life’s curveballs. If you frequent the Canadian Rodder Forum, you’ll be familiar with these outpourings.
So, with another year behind us, I’m gratified that we are rodders first – Canadian and otherwise.
Yes you sure got that right Frank it is about the people first and cars second. I guess you could put us down here as otherwise. Thanks for setting all this up mate it sure is a great spot to be and way better tyhan any other site I have been to where there is a lot of abuse etc, Cheers and all the very best t o CR, JT
John, thanks for being part of it.
Right on,Frank!Thanx to you we all have become a community,a brotherhood,so to speak.I would have never met alot the people I met if it wasn’t for YOUR hard work.This site is the best,and you should be proud!Cheers,Dale
Thanks Dale but this post wasn’t meant to highlight the work on my part but simply to recognize the comrodderie in our community and the hobby in general……..F
I never cease to be amazed at the power of the internet. We “talk” to people all over the world and actually build relationships. It only strengthens the bonds when we meet face to face …like the 2007 tour. I don’t think there is one member on the site that hasn’t said to someone,”You have to take a look at “Canadianrodder”, you’ll be surprised by the people and content”. From my first reply to a post to this one I have thouroughly enjoyed this place and all the crazies that inhabit it.
Thanks for that , Frank,
Wayne
well said because of this site and the people in it I’ve met and befreinded a lot of people.
not cars as you’ve said when I travel I’ve got places to stop that I’ve never had befor and when that happens it’s the people!!
Frank, Thanks again for setting up the best site in Canada. I have made many friends on here and I have to say “LIFELONG” friends. You are so right, this is not just a site about “cars”, but about the family atmosphere of the people on here. As I’ve meet a few on here face to face, I am hopeful that I can meet many more of the friends on here face to face one day.
Yes, this site is definately about the people and the friendships, but it’s also about the vehicles, for without the vehicles we wouldn’t be here.
We also know, that becoming a member of C.R., doesn’t necessarily mean you have to own a streetrod, muscle, custom or any vehicle for that matter.
Rather, it’s about people’s integrity to be honest, people’s humililty to be humble, people’s same like interests and enthusiasm for the rodding life style, that draws people back here day after day.
Thanks Frank for having the vision and fortitude to see this through and to making C.R. the success story it is today. Well Done.
Frank,I just thought I would bring to light your efforts,and yes, it is about the people.I have experinced the comrodderie myself and have been blown away by the trust and honesty of others on this site.The car thing we all have in common,but it’s the community,no make that family, that matters.It amazes me to see what these folks will do when someone on this site is in need!Kudos to all!Kinda restores a guys faith in humanity don’t it!
Frank, this is the best HotRodder’s site on the web and we can’t possibly thank you enough for your efforts. Hard to believe we could assemble such a great group of good caring people. Thanx again.
I can’t agree with you more. The people I have met over the last 45 years through cars one way or another have been fantastic. I only wish I could have met personally all the great people you brought to Northwest Deuce Day on the Canadian Hotrod Tour in 07. It was overwhelming.
Thanks again
Al Clark
I knew you’d all agree. And, thanks for agreeing. Some of us have had the chance to meet and make friends with rodders from all over the country and beyond. Others, have to do it “electronically” but are getting the benefit nonetheless. Look at all the admirers of bullet’s work/car on the east cost and the outpouring for Davey on the left side, Digger in the middle and fattie near here. Al, thanks for your comments. Ending our journey in Victoria for the 75th. was unbelievably memorable and, once again, we met another fabulous group of people – many of which continue to be in contact.
Frank. I got into the hobby to build my Dream Car. I found Canadian Rodder and was able to share my dream with all of you.And now I have met more people with the same dreams. Thanks so much Frank
Cheers
PeterB
I found this site my accident after doing the 2008 Hot Rod Power Tour & was unable to do the West Coast Run but have participated in most of the functioons since(I did run the first half day) & have met many great people whom I would like to consider friends
I attend a lot of meets & shows & always promote this site, just yesterday I was aked to put on a small Cdn Tour by friends in Atlanta & said no but promoted the Nations & this site(it better happen now)
Keep up the great works frank
We can never have enough friends
Well said Frank. I agree 110%.
The friendships made at Canadian Rodder can last a lifetime,even out live some cars.
I put both little boys in the passenger seat and went around the block with the top down in the Chevelle, smiles galore.
I wish to involve my kids in our frienships and introduce them to our hobby.
I’ve seen kids on our tours and plan to bring mine as the folks around us are respectful and Great People (first) with awesome Hotrods (second).
RobZ
Hi Frank
I think the forum has come ”FULL CIRCLE” now…. It’s kind like building a car, first it get planned then there are a few hiccups along the way and finely the finished project. But just like a car there is allways room for improvement. Great job Frank!
Dennis
Great words. I know there are alot of other hot rod forums out there (I may even belong to one) but to me Canadian Rodder is “home”. The first site I go to and the last, this is where my friends are. It really rang true when my 12 year old daughter asked “when am I going to be aloud to join?”
The next generation is on it’s way.
Thanks for everything Frank.