By Jim Ferguson

The 2014 gathering of the Key West British Car Club was held April 21-25, 2014 in Key West. We were saddened by the passing of founding and only Admiral, Fred Skomp whose leadership kept the club strong for 10 years and laid the foundation for the future.

Monday the gathering opened with a Reception at the Blue Marlin, our host hotel. Hors d'oeuvres and all the beer and wine you wanted was provided around the pool as members greeted old friends and met new ones

Tuesday, the traditional Bocce Ball tournament was held. The team of Sue O'Neill, Suzie Ulery, Tom Fant, and Tim Gaffney claimed the trophy.

Tuesday evening there was a Haunted Key West tour through the back streets of Old Key West. We heard stories and saw the sites of strange and scary things that went on in Key West. One was a guy that kept his dead girlfriend with him for many years. He preserved the body and repaired it as it decayed. The Key West Hanging Tree, which now has a bar built around it, serves as a spot to hang bras when you enter.

Wednesday we drove up US 1 to Sugarloaf Key and the famous and enduring Perky's Bat Tower for a picture of the MGs.

Then off to the nearby waterfront Tiki Hut Bar at the Sugarloaf Lodge to cool off. After lunch at Boondockes Grill and Drafthouse, we toured Vice Admiral Brian Hoffman's beautiful estate on Cuejoe Key.

Wednesday evening was the awards ceremony and annual club meeting. The officers took care of other business before awarding the trophies for Bocce Ball, Distance, and Best Car. Tom Fant took Bocce, Distance and Best Car awards - again. He may be disqualified from multiple awards next year.

After the meeting we held a Wake honoring Fred Skomp at Finnegan's Wake attended by Key West British Car Club members, Fred's family, friends, employees and others who knew and loved Fred. Fred's legacy will include the rescue and restoration of the 100,000th MGA, now at the Moss Motors museum in Richmond, VA.

Thursday was a free day. We enjoyed the sights and activities of Key West from Museums to Pool Sitting. Part of the afternoon was spent decorating cars for the Parade Thursday night. It is the longest parade in the world stretching from the Atlantic to the Gulf of Mexico. Decorating time at the Motel is highlighted by the official group picture before heading to the staging site.

After dark we were on our way tossing beads and watching people with Tommie and Cindy leading the way with the club 2014 banner.

Friday was farewell day for those who had to head home, but several stayed for the Great Naval Battle to defend the Conch Republic aboard the Appledor II.

With all the wine and beer you could drink, two water cannons and soggy bread to throw we put up a good fight and repelled the US Coast Guard. They of course returned fire and everyone got a dousing.

After the Battle it was time to watch the famous Key West Sunset from the deck of the Appledor. Later we celebrated the victory with a few more drinks and a good Dinner.

Saturday morning, we packed up to head home. Plans for the 2015 gathering were set in motion with member contributing ideas for daily events. We look forward to returning to Paradise this year with British Cars and lots of fun. The 2015 theme is "Brits in Paradise" and will be held April 20-25, 2015. See http://kwbcc.org/ for information or email Jim Ferguson at .

The Key West British Car Club commits itself to the recognition and memory of: Admiral Fred Skomp. Who can forget that smile that always greeted everyone? We will miss you, Fred.

Pub Chairmen’s note: Jim and Dottie represented CVBMC in Key West last year as they have done several times. They always report having a great time.