HOLLYWOOD, Calif., (April 2005) -Thousands of VIPs, celebrities, and guests arrived at
the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood on April 9th to honor William H.
Smith as the 2005 Car Hobby's Person of the Year. Under
his leadership as the former executive
director of the Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA), the largest collector car club in the world grew to
more than 60,000 members and 400 regional clubs worldwide. He was the
co-founder of the Automotive Restoration Marketing Organization (ARMA) and was
the driving force behind the renowned Hershey Swap Meet. Smith received
a standing ovation for his significant contributions to the car hobby as he was
presented with the prestigious Meguiar's Award.
Other
highlights of the gala event included the recognition of tuner RJ de Vera and
pre-eminent automotive artist Ken Eberts as
"Treasures of the Hobby." Each was celebrated for the impact and lasting imprints
that they have made and continue to make on the ever-expanding car hobby.
