OVRMAFC Traditions

For nearly 60 years, the Ohio Valley Region Model A Ford Club has built more than cars — we’ve built camaraderie. Along the way, a few traditions have become legendary…

The traditions below represent just a few of the customs that make OVRMAFC unique.

The Toilet Seat Award

In the early 1970s, OVRMAFC member Lee White spotted a discarded 1929-era toilet seat and saw not trash — but opportunity. It became the perfect traveling trophy to commemorate the inevitable Model A breakdowns during club tours. Thus, the legendary Toilet Seat Award was born.

The award is typically presented at the following meeting, where the recipient shares the full story with the club. The recipient signs the seat, poses for a photo, and proudly carries the distinction until the next breakdown claims a new honoree. On rare occasions, it has even changed hands multiple times during a single tour.

The original toilet seat filled with signatures and was retired in 1983, replaced by a second edition that continues to collect the names of brave roadside adventurers.

More than 50 years later, the tradition endures — a reminder that touring isn’t just about perfect runs, but about laughter, camaraderie, and stories that last a lifetime.

Past Recipients in Action

“May it never find you… but if it does, wear it proudly”

Oeder’s Lake Club Picnic

Since 1971, OVRMAFC has gathered each fall at the home of Les, Mary, and Richard Oeder near Morrow, Ohio for our annual club picnic. The first picnic was held on October 24, 1971 — and the tradition has continued ever since.

Set against the backdrop of Oeder’s Lake, the day includes great food, fishing, children’s games, car games, and plenty of fellowship. The club provides the meat, and members bring their favorite dishes to share — ensuring no one leaves hungry.

For more than five decades, the Oeder’s Lake Picnic has been one of the highlights of the OVR calendar and a reminder that our club is as much about friendship as it is about Model A’s.

Annual Participation Recognition

Each year at our Christmas Party, OVRMAFC recognizes members who have gone above and beyond in supporting the club’s activities throughout the year.

Participation is tracked through a point system that rewards involvement — attending meetings and events, driving a Model A to functions, hosting summer meetings, leading tours, and chairing fundraisers.

The top fifteen members are recognized annually, with special distinction given to the year’s highest participant. The program is coordinated by the Vice Director and serves as encouragement for members to stay active, engaged, and behind the wheel.

The spirit behind the program is simple: the more you participate, the more rewarding the club becomes.

2025 Award Winners – Deb and Larry Arnold

2025 Award Winners – Paula and Terry Ekstedt

2025 Award Winner – Mike Wilcher

For more than six decades, these traditions have shaped the spirit of OVRMAFC — and we look forward to many more miles ahead.