by Rusty Duncan, President MBCA Peachtree Chapter
Happy New Year to everyone! I hope you had a wonderful holiday season and are feeling energized for what’s ahead. I am excited about what’s coming up for our chapter in the year ahead, and grateful to be part of such an engaged and enthusiastic group. What follows is just a small preview of our 2026 calendar, with much more to be announced in the months ahead.
We have a couple of updates to share regarding our Board. Marisa Hegyesi will be stepping into the role of Vice President, concluding her term as Secretary to take on this new position. Sam Kamber has needed to step back from the Vice President role for personal reasons, but I’m pleased to share that he will continue to plan and oversee our Concours events. We thank Sam sincerely for his leadership and are grateful for his continued involvement.
Marisa brings tremendous energy and enthusiasm to the Vice President position, and her primary focus will be keeping our calendar filled with terrific events. If you’ve attended any of our in-person events over the past year or so, you’ve likely already met Marisa and her husband, Steve.
We are also pleased that Brett Butler will be our Secretary (a role he has performed in the past). Brett is nearing retirement and looking forward to enjoying a bit more freedom, and we’re glad to have him during this exciting time.
There are some great events on the horizon. In March, we will once again host a fundraiser for Southern Cross German Shepherd Rescue. Please come help us raise money and, who knows, maybe even adopt a dog.
In March, Karl Boegner has invited us back for a private tour of Wolf Mountain Vineyards. In addition to his incredible car collection, Karl has added an impressive rock-n-roll guitar collection and is looking forward to sharing both with us.
Star Summit has evolved into a weekend trip to Birmingham during the first weekend in June. We are planning scenic drives and a nice group meal on Saturday. MBCA HPDE Performance Driving at the Talladega Grand Prix Racetrack is scheduled for Monday June 8th. More details will be announced soon.
In July, Ernie Smallman will lead us on another progressive barbeque drive. Lots of fun and great food. Don’t miss it!
This fall, we will also have another opportunity to attend the MBCA Driving Academy, held on a sheriff’s closed course in Appling, Georgia. This is a low-cost, high-value event that’s both fun and educational. Bring everyone you care about. It truly could save their lives.
Finally, I want to thank all of our volunteers and members for your participation and support. I hope you are having as much fun as I am. And if you have ideas for events you’d like to see, please let us know! We’re happy to help you plan them.
Here’s to a great year ahead!