Cleveland Code of Conduct

[senatorpack@xxxx]

Dear DML, 

I belong to another exotic car list, and I came across this. I thought 
that it would be beneficial for those of us going to Cleveland and Beyond.

Read This Carefully.

Joe Martz (nsxguy@xxxx) has owned 2 NSX's plus several Italian exotics. 
He recently posted this to the Ferrari list and I thought it was worth 
repeating.



This morning waiting for F1 qualifying, I ginned-up the following as a 
personal code for myself. I don't intend this for anyone else, and you have 
the lovely gift of free-choice to decide on your own about these things. That 
said, I thought others here might be interested. As a code for myself, I 
might not always meet the standards I outline. But I firmly believe in 
self-improvement and all that stuff, so here goes...

My personal code of conduct as an exotic owner
(© Copyright 1998

My cars will always be clean and well-presentable. I will ensure that my cars 
are in the highest state of mechanical condition and maintenance. Exotics as 
indeed rare, and to see one is a special experience. I have an obligation to 
present these cars to others at a high standard.

I will always be polite, courteous, and friendly. I will not talk down to or 
ignore anyone, and I will cheerfully answer all questions. Exotic owners 
wrongly suffer from a "snob" label. By actively and always countering this, I 
will strive to change this perception among all whom I met.

Where feasible, I will encourage inspection and observation of my cars. If 
someone is clean and courteous, I will encourage them to sit in my cars. I 
will actively encourage photographs. In-particular, I will encourage this 
among younger children. On occasion, I will offer rides to admirers under the 
appropriate circumstances.

With one exception (see 5, below), I will obey all traffic laws or local 
traffic customs. Especially, I will pass other cars only in marked, safe 
passing zones, and I will always respect traffic speeds and noise ordinances 
within city limits. I will always drive in a defensive manner to protect 
myself and my vehicle. I will not initiate nor will I respond to challenges 
to race my cars on open public roads. When asked to race, I will positively 
comment on the challengers car and invite them to inspect mine at an 
appropriate stopping point, while asking if I might see their
vehicle.

Operating my cars as Enzo, Soichiro and Ferruccio intended will occur only on 
open, rural routes free of heavy traffic or on appropriately designated race 
courses. On public highways, I will use my highest powers of observation and 
diligence to ensure that I place myself, my vehicles, and the public in no 
additional danger. I will be aware of the environment and road conditions, 
and I will not drive at excessive speeds on unknown or suspect roads. When 
approaching blind corners or hills, I will assume that an obstacle exists and 
will take appropriate defensive measures.

I will share my passion and excitement for exotic cars with others through 
community service and charitable events. I will actively seek out community 
organizations such as local police departments and schools and offer my cars 
for use in events such as DARE programs, homecoming parades, pep rallies, 
etc. Many communities have "Make a Wish" foundations for sick children. If 
given the opportunity, I will offer a day with myself and my cars to such 
organizations in an effort to brighten an otherwise trying life for someone 
less fortunate than I.

I will be honest and open with other enthusiasts, and I will accurately 
represent my cars to prospective owners and buyers. I will keep complete 
records, and I will always follow-up with purchasers of my cars to ensure 
that they continue to gain maximum satisfaction and appreciation for cars 
that I have owned and serviced.

I will always have a smile on my face when inspecting, driving, or showing my 
cars to others. I will never forget how fortunate I've been to own such 
automobiles and I will constantly remind myself that the future is uncertain, 
and that today may be as good as it gets.