To live a life unlike any other — to be unlike any other — is the quest of the uniquely lived life.

Although 2020 and 2021 have been years unlike any others in our lifetime, they have been years of growth, expansion, and appreciation. I remember the first time we went on lockdown in March 2020. It was a scary time. Today, almost two years into the pandemic, we continue to celebrate life, celebrate small wins, and celebrate each other. The pandemic is still among us, but we are stronger than ever.

As I write this, I am sitting in the show office at the Orange County Convention Center celebrating another successful auto show. There are hundreds of cars on the floor, with thousands of people enjoying the event. On one side, a guy is perusing the engine of a car, another person is standing on the bed of a pickup, and a child is sitting behind the steering wheel of a sports car while mom takes a picture. There is also a group of people scouting out all the electric vehicles. We have a good selection of these on the floor, so they will be here a while.

On the other side, the lines to Camp Jeep and the Ram Truck Territory continue to grow. Arcimoto is also making its debut with its fun utility vehicles. Toward the back, children are having their own test drives in our toy electric cars while others race the remote-control cars on their tracks. Further out, the BMX stunt show is drawing a crowd. Our schools are also here promoting their career programs while our local firefighters, officers, and medics educate the crowd on safety. In the center of this, all is Subaru with their rescued pet adoption. These puppies will melt your heart.

Outside, several brands are hosting ride-and-drives. The lines are long, with people waiting to take their favorite car for a test drive. Me, I am looking at people coming in and being thankful. I am thankful for what I have. I am thankful because we can produce this show and have so many people experience it. I am thankful for you, our dealers, and all that you do.

The auto show is not about the cars; it’s about the people that are looking for their next car. It’s about the people able to provide that next car. And it’s about the people able to maintain those cars. As 2021 begins to bow out and 2022 starts to make its entrance. I thank you for all you do, and I look forward to what we will accomplish in 2022!