Association of Far Western District Champions

The Association of Far Western District Champions (AFWDC), is an affiliate organization^[1] of the Far Western District Association of Chapters of SPEBSQSA, one of the districts of the Barbershop Harmony Society. Founded in 1983,^[2] its members are the champions^[3] from the district's annual quartet contest, from 1947 to present. AFWDC's primary purpose is to raise funds to subsidize the travel expenses of Far Western District quartets which qualify to compete at the Barbershop Harmony Society's international quartet contest. This is done with the proceeds of two shows produced annually: the Past Champs Show, held the Friday evening of the district's annual convention; and the Go For The Gold Show, held each June.

The AFWDC's founder was Dan Jordan and its first meeting took place in 1979 in Bakersfield. The first AFWDC "Late Show" (named by the founder) was held in 1980 in Phoenix, AZ. The first Go For The Gold Show (also named by the founder) was held in 1982 in Los Angeles. The first Scorpionaires chorus performance took place in 1983 (chorus named by Lloyd Steinkamp and the chapter they represent "Blythe, CA" was named by Dan Jordan). The Bylaws were drafted by Sam Aramian and Dan Jordan. The black membership badges were created by Dan Jordan and developed by the then society jeweler in 1979. The first and third President of the AFWDC was Dan Jordan (1979–1984 and 1986–1988) the 2nd President was Don Gubbins (1984–1986). Nick Papageorge became the President in 1988 by vote in absentia due to the death of Dan Jordan's Father-in-law. No past champs breakfast was held, and a majority in attendance took a vote.

References

• Personal files and papers from Dan Jordan. President from 1979–1984 and 1986–1988.