<VV> Bone of Contention (long)

[vairologist@juno.com]

Smitty says:  This is of necessity long but I really need to satisfy my
mind.  Our club has for years paraded in a small town parade near here. 
The parades are well attended and quite pleasant.  In the last few years
the organizer has started "ordering up" the number of cars they need to
carry dignitaries, thus scattering some of our cars elsewhere in the
parade.  This year the "request" identified 8 cars and who would be
riding in them with each having a parade unit number.  But no unit number
for the club. Also a "request" was made for additional cars if available.
        Pro. arguments have been made thus:  It matters not how we get
into the parade, just being there satisfies our need to promote the car
and our club.  Even though Thank You's have been marginal, the greater
good is being served.
        Con. arguments are.  We have lost our identity as a club.  We
should be invited as a club and if people want rides they should make
their own arrangements.  We have lost respect in becoming an unpaid
utility of the parade committee.
        Of course the greatest danger is that if the organizer decides we
are too much trouble we might not be invited again.  Even that is a
contentious thought with some saying, that if we are merely
transportation to them, let them find it elsewhere.
        This is much more hotly contested than you might believe.  These
represent the major points though.   What I want is thoughtful guidance
from the great unwashed majority out there. I would appreciate input from
any and all that will take the time to answer.  Private posts appreciated