There was a lot of excitement in Detroit this month. Scores of auto executives and over 5,000 journalists from around the world were in town for the North American International Auto Show.

And, of course, Automotive News held its 42nd annual World Congress. A thousand or so attendees heard directly from the many senior executives who spoke at our event.

On the heels of Detroit, Washington, D.C., held its own auto show last week, with a couple of days of panels and speakers. At the conclusion of the press and industry days, show officials were kind enough to present me with a lifetime achievement award — an honor I accept on behalf of my almost five decades of collaboration with the best group of automotive journalists in the world. I continue to be very proud of the job we do each and every day.

The Washington show becomes more significant with each passing year and I felt privileged to be recognized there.

Meanwhile, across the country, the year's largest gathering of classic car enthusiasts took part in Arizona Car Week.

Seven auctions were held in the Phoenix area and they sold well over $100 million in classic cars. Thousands of bidders participated in the auctions and many thousands more TV viewers were able to bid electronically.

If that wasn't enough, the NASCAR Hall of Fame ceremony was held last week in Charlotte, N.C., with five stock car heroes inducted.

It was a very special few days for the automobile industry in America, with something for everyone. It was one of those periods that make you understand why the industry is so terrific — and has been for over 100 years.

I am sure this kind of excitement will continue for at least another 100 years, whether the vehicle has a steering wheel or not.