Dedicated to the enjoyment of the Porsche 356 automobile

- By Rick Danielson

The Annual Northwest Bull Session celebrated its 25^th year by expanding the routine single afternoon gathering to a full three days of celebration, including an optional pre function event for those who wanted to get fully prepared for the weekend gathering on Sept 16, 17, and 18. Robert Cugini, our event chairman, envisioned a special three day event as fitting celebration to the Bull Session that began 24 years ago in the back yards of the late Bill Mitchell and long time host and participant, Garrett Goldsmith. Our planning team focused on a "mini holiday" format, utilizing a host hotel for registration and distribution of goodie bags, hospitality suite, tech sessions, the 356 Goodie store, awards banquet, door prize drawings, back road tour, and swap meet. An optional registration choice was given to those who could only attend the more traditional Saturday afternoon Bull Session itself, foregoing the hotel activities. True to past tradition, the afternoon gathering featured beer and brats, a German band, door prizes, and an opportunity to walk among the gathering of 356s driven or dragged to Aker’s Hobby Barn. Besides the door prizes and Bull Session T shirt, a first time People’s Choice was conducted for the Saturday gathering. There were "Best of Show" place awards, for 1-5, and a 356 with the "most potential" along with a best 912 award. Yes…we invited the 912 cousins….

When you plan a 356 event in the Northwest, weather is a factor. Sometimes it is THE factor. But, someone once said that there is no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing. Yet we all know how we feel about getting our prized 356 wet and road grime gooey. And, this event typically draws avid 356ers from Washington, British Columbia, Oregon, and Idaho. September scheduling was risky, but necessary, and we had some dry spells and wet spells depending on the time of day. It is not unusual to have 85-100 356s gathered for this cornerstone of Northwest 356 events, but intermittent rain and threats thereof brought the car total to forty something. Some very special ones in that group though... Gary Dixon’s stunning auratium green Speedster, Mike and Ruth Grabowski’s gleaming graphite metallic A "Outlaw", Paul and Rochelle McHugh’s beautiful aquamarine A coupe, Jed Goniu’s pristine red Speedster…. And, on special display, Steve Terrien’s 550, 550A-0141, after 26 years of restoration. Special recognition to Trajan Moen’s deeeeeeep patina green ‘65 coupe as having the "most potential".

Aker’s garage and ample tent coverings offered respite from the afternoon shower and an opportunity to view his collection and projects. And, although the afternoon turned Northwest wet, it did not dampen the spirits of the 356 Faithful and many returned to the hotel for hospitality and the awards dinner that evening that was peppered with door prizes and the People’s Choice awards.

The Sunday morning swap meet was damp as well, but some treasures were found…a few original tools, ZF steering box, original driving lights, numerous date stamped steel wheels… sales brochures.. and coffee for the Gortex dressed browsers.

All in all, the 25^th celebration was a success that all enjoyed. Whether they attended the entire weekend or merely the afternoon gathering, it continued in the tradition of 356 camaraderie, informality, and fun. As it has gained in popularity, our Northwest Bull Session continues to evolve and develop into a fine tuned event with many features. Our many thanks to all who volunteered and helped insure the success of this event.

 Thanks to all our door prize donors and the tireless efforts of our 356 Group NW President, Jack Keyes for his 356 leadership, guidance and 356 team spirit! Thanks to Robert Cugini for spearheading this very special 25^th Anniversary of the 356 Group Northwest Bull Session.