Rochester, New York
The Finger Lakes Section of the MBCA was Chartered in Illinois on December 17, 1972. The original founding directors were: Norman Schlegel, Jr., Walter Levine, Craig Mitchell and William Miller. These 4 individuals went on to become the first officers with Norman being the President. During the first decade, the club flourished with events such as Concourse D’ Elegance, Picnics, Rallyes, Meet & Greets, Wine & Cheese & film parties. The local MB dealer furnished films and speakers on upcoming enhancements to the MB cars.
As the club grew beyond the 1970’s the Finger Lakes Section became widespread throughout the western half of the State of New York. The cities of Buffalo and Rochester were the hubs with a Section Director – East and a Section Director – West. Members were from Buffalo, South to Dunkirk, Fredonia, north to the Canadian border, some from Ontario, Canada included. Rochester membership encircled Syracuse and Utica in the eastern part of the Finger Lakes Section reaching south to Ithaca and Elmira to the Pennsylvania state line. Some active long time members include: Nan & Elliot Spiegel, David & Dorothy Walthour, Hans & Jutta Buschang, Jack & Phillis Barnhart, Ray & Peggy Maxwell, Sally Cyrulik-Suffolk, Jo Ann & Dan Hovey, Doug Bezon, Charlotte & Joe Wahl, Tom & Marilyn Hamilton, Kathey & Michael Loefstedt, Roy & Jeanette Kuck. Some of these members have earned their 20 or 25 year pins.