National Impala 29th International Convention
July 26-30, 2009, in Charlotte, North Carolina
~Welcome Wagons~

Showtime in Charlotte!
National Impala Association Convention #29

Our introduction to the NIA began with a phone call from Joe Shea in Texas. Then we received a call from Jody asking if we would be interested in hosting a convention in Charlotte. Our club agreed. Several months prior to the date of the event, Jody and Steve visited the area to scope the hotels. It was decided that the Arysley Hilton Garden Inn would suit every need. Good choice, wouldn't you agree?
 
On Saturday, before the convention began, Joel, Mitch Siler and I were in the hotel lobby conversing about the parking lot. We were wondering if anyone would show up early and to our wondering eyes should appear but a 1958 Chevy convertible!  We were so excited!  We then knew we had at least one car at the event but it proved that once again we could count on your support as even more arrived through the evening.
 
Sunday, things began hopping with registrations in the hospitality suite. The evening started with our welcome meeting. We had a surprise guest speaker, Dave Sanders, who was on Captain Sully's plane that landed on the Hudson River in January. He shared a riveting story of survival and faith. Looking out at the group and seeing many old friends and knowing that several new friendships were to about to be made was quite humbling. Pizza was then served to all and later in the evening, we were entertained by the talented Bobby Ryder.

Show Car Classifications, fascinating tech seminars, a great swap meet and renewing friendships continued through Monday. The schedule that evening was capped by Jody’s Chevy Movies.
 
The NIA Show and Shine was held on Tuesday and while the men were kicking tires and getting red eyes from looking at the cars outside, the Ladies auction was in full force inside. It is always a fun time for our club along with everyone who attends. Maybe next time we'll let more of the men join in after they are through looking at the show field. We do hope you’all enjoyed your finds. Everyone lined up for the cruise to McDowell Park for a fantastic BBQ provided by Jim N’ Nicks. The rain held off until we arrived to the pavilion. The food was terrific and nobody left hungry.
 
Early on Wednesday, several of us left for a day of fun at the drags! How exciting to see the old cars racing down the strip at Rockingham! Just like old times. Meanwhile, back at the hotel, the ladies had a brunch and then they went crafting with Sharon Clark. Jolanda Johnstone and Tonya Anderson helped host also. The 50's dance and costume contest were held later in the evening. Mitch and Ruth Siler did a great job with the music and party favors. There were lots of us swingin’ to the hits late into the evening. The Lucas' girls won the costume contest. Good job girls!
 
Rick Hendricks NASCAR race shop was filled with Chevy lovers as the group toured their facility on Thursday. We were able to see exclusive areas that are not usually seen. The awards banquet is exciting but sad at the same time. Exciting because of the awards given but sad because then the convention has to come to a close. Our entire Tarheel Chevy club was so glad to see so many familiar faces, and also thrilled to make so many new friends. As I said at the banquet, without Jody and Tonya, we would not be us, a newly formed yet reunited group of close friends.
 
Thank you so much for joining us and supporting the convention in North Carolina!
 
            Betty Jean Taylor
            Tarheel Chevy Club