Back Roads January/February 2025
Back Roads
Dean Hickenlooper, Vice Chairman
Greetings to all from the Chicagoland area.
I’d first like to introduce myself. Some of you know me already. My name is Dean Hickenlooper and I’m honored to have been elected your Vice Chairman. I’s both humbling and intimidating at the same time. I’ve been an avid enthusiast of MG most of my life, owning several MGBs and MGAs over the years, and I’d guess I shouldn’t mention the TR6 or Spitfire, so I won’t. (they were sold a long time ago before I came to my senses.)
I’m a long-time member of the Chicagoland MG Club where I served as president for several years, and I’m also a member of NAMGBR and NAMGAR, of course.
As vice chairman I’m very grateful to have such a supportive and encouraging staff to help me make this transition. I had no idea there would be so much responsibility involved, and I pray for your patience and assistance as I try to fill the shoes of Larry Pittman. This will be a true learning experience for me as I’m much better with a wrench and a welder than trying to type out this article on my laptop. I am, however, looking forward to serving you.
With the onset of winter here in the northern hemisphere I suspect most of our MGAs are in hibernation mode or possibly in some phase of restoration, hopefully nearing completion for the upcoming driving season.
I’m very excited for the GT-50 up in Traverse, Michigan. This is truly an amazing location. I’ve had the pleasure of attending a couple conventions there and they were awesome!
I hope you have the opportunity to attend and take in the beauty and culture of this region. You will not be disappointed! And if you like cherries you are in for a real treat. My wife Kerry and I are planning on attending and hope to meet and get to know as many of you as possible.
After making the drive to GT-49 in Welches, Oregon – just over 5,000 miles in Kerry’s’59 A – getting to GT-50 should be a breeze. I’ll possibly have the restoration of my 1960 MGA Coupe completed, but if not, maybe we’ll take Kerry’s A or the Red Racer.
Well, that’s all for now. Hoping this finds you safe and in good health. SAFETY FAST.
Your new vice chairman, Dean Hickenlooper.
