Spring 2009 Newsletter

VCEA Newsletter Volume 7, Issue 1
Volume 7, Issue 1
Spring 2009
The Virginia Chevelle Times
V i r g i n i a
C h e v e l l e
E n t h u s i a s t s
A s s o c i a t i o n
w w w . c h e v e l l e s . n e t / v c e a
VC E A H O L D S P R E - S E AS O N M E E TIN G
K I C K S - O F F 2 0 09 S E A S O N
WITH A
B ANG!
Setting 2009 VCEA Schedule of Events...
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
VCEA Meeting
Recap
1,3
President’s Message
John Parker
VCEA President
2
2009 VCEA Events
3
Member’s Ride
Chris Williams
4
VCEA Member News
4
Top 10 Reasons to
Visit Chevell-abration
5
VCEA, ACES
Membership Forms
6
Sponsor Spotlight
7
2009 Show Registrations...
8-10
Don’t Forget…
• Be sure and send newsletter
ideas for future editions
• Bubba’s Open House, 26
Apr!
• Pay your DUES!!!
Members of the Virginia Chevelle
meeting (Apr 4); a club trip to the
Enthusiasts Association (VCEA) deSpring Carlisle & Swap Meet (Apr
cided to break the dead of winter with
25); VCEA club meeting at the Apple
a pre-season meeting on February 28,
Blossom Car Show (May 3); Chevell2009, at Hard Times Chili & Cue in
abration in Goodlettsville, TN (June
Manassas,
VA. In an
effort to
shake the
chills of winter, VCEA
members
met to discuss club
business,
welcome
new members, and set
sights firmly
on the 2009
season.
Aside
from catching up and
Standing from left: Rick Morder, Buck Feathers, Chris Williams, John
swapping
Parker, Mike Drennan, Roger Butler, Sean Houts; Kneeling from left:
project upMickey Pessagno, Jeff Dillon; Not pictured: Tom Kinman
dates on
4-6); and the Mid-Atlantic Chevelle
Chevelle and El Caminos, VCEA
Show in Northeast, MD (June 27-28).
members enjoyed some good chili to
fire up the outlook for the 2009
John Parker, VCEA president,
VCEA calendar. Key VCEA events
walked the members through the
discussed include: the next VCEA
“State of the Club” and provided...
Cont. page 3.
VCEA Newsletter Volume 7, Issue 1
2
P R E S ID E N T ’ S M E S S AG E . . .
J O HN P ARKE R
V CEA P RES IDENT
Wouldn’t it be nice, if we were older...
You may not believe this, but I used to be a big
fan of winter…honest. I mean, growing up in the
South Texas heat where you could fry an egg on
your parent’s car (I know, I tried…) you really
looked forward to that time of year when days got
shorter and weather got colder. Most call it winter,
for South Texans it’s called January!
Fast forward more years than I care to remember and a few Northern Virginia winters I’d love to
forget, and you find me itching for Spring Break.
I’ve traded those “fan-of-winter” days for the
“Please-God-melt-the-snow-so-I-cantake-the-car-out-for-a-cruise!”
days,
which usually consumes the entire
month of February, currently my least
favorite month. So, as VCEA President,
I’m thrilled to declare: …March.
Yep, Virginia Chevelle and El
Camino enthusiasts have survived another (cruel) winter…and can now
(finally) get ready for the 2009 cruise
season!! This edition of the Virginia
Chevelle Times is dedicated to the upcoming season – to give you an idea of what’s on the VCEA
calendar and help plan your participation in 2009
club events (see page 3).
Looking back, 2008 was a great season and a
“banner” year (such as, the VCEA banner). I’m
happy to report VCEA had steady and consistent
growth throughout the year, and from all corners of
the state. Expect this year to be similar, and that’s
great news. Remember the original Virginia State
Motto: Virginia is for Chevelle Lovers! (Okay,
probably not…)
Last Spring, I laid out VCEA club goals for
2008, with a focus on: 1) taking care of the club
and 2) growing the club. We need to continue that
for 2009. These goals add to the overall health of
the club and what we get out of the club. All in all
it’s a win-win situation when we take care of the
club and help the club grow. But I also want to
share a few other goals for 2009. So, in addition to
participating and supporting VCEA in 2009, I also
need your help with these…
2009 VCEA Goals
1. Participate in VCEA Events – the club is like a
sponge, “you get out of it, what you put into it”…
and we’ve got a good variety of events throughout
the first half of 2009, truly something for everyone!
So mark your calendars and make plans to join in
on the 2009 VCEA events, whether it’s attending a
swap meet, going to a car show, participating in a
VCEA meeting, or meeting at a cruise-in…take advantage of the opportunity to meet some great
folks and enjoy your club experience (your car will
thank you!);
2. Fill Vacant Positions – this is the key
to seeing VCEA grow to the next level,
recall last year’s goal of keeping up with
our neighbor states; the critical vacancies that need filling to help the club are
Membership Coordinator and Events
Coordinator, filling these positions help
sustain the momentum and keep the
club pointed in the right direction; I think
VCEA needs to consider adding a regional Vice President position to cover
regional membership and issues, particularly in the
Central Virginia area;
3. Plan a VCEA Cruise/Picnic – we’ve got good
events for the first part of the season, and I think a
late summer/early fall cruise or picnic would be
great to top off the second half of 2009…more to
come on this;
I’ll tell you, we just wrapped up a VCEA “preSeason” meeting (28 Feb) in Manassas, VA, and
had an absolute blast catching up and getting to
know each other over a bowl of chili. But one
thing’s clear, the club is really about the members…not the president, not the website, and not
the merchandise. So here’s to a great 2009 season for VCEA, look forward to seeing you and your
Chevelle/El Camino throughout the season…
...then we wouldn’t have to wait so long…
oh wouldn’t it be nice….
John H. Parker,
VCEA President
Spread the Word...tell a friend about VCEA!!
Sign up @ http://www.chevelles.net/vcea
VCEA Newsletter Volume 7, Issue 1
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VC E A H O L D S P R E - S E AS O N M E E TIN G …
...members some gifts and trinkets
provided by VCEA sponsors, Hinshaw’s Chevelle & Restoration and
Ausley’s Chevelle Parts. Hinshaw’s and Ausley’s continue to
represent the very best of the Chevelle and El Camino enthusiasts, and
VCEA thanks them for their continued support and our MidAtlantic connection.
VCEA members also discussed
club business relating to website,
group communications and vacant
club positions. Several members
used the meeting as an opportunity
to update their wardrobe with
snazzy VCEA club shirts!
It was a great way to get ready
for the 2009 season and catch up
with VCEA members. While the
chili was
good, the
conversation was
better.
VCEA also
discussed a
club cruise
or picnic
for the second half of
the cruise
season...keep
your eyes open for more details!!
Be sure and make plans to attend the next VCEA club meeting
on April 4, and mark your calendars for the 2009 VCEA club
events listed below.
F R OM PAGE 1
Above, VCEA member Buck Feathers
shows off the new crate engine in his
‘66 El Camino; Buck gets the “Furthest
Distance Traveled in Your Car” award
after driving in from Front Royal, VA.
Rick Morder, Strasburg, VA, gets
“Overall Furthest Distance Traveled”.
At left, Chris Williams and Sean Houts
(background) wave to onlookers and
enjoy Mike Drennan’s show-winning
paint job at the 28 Feb. VCEA meeting.
T H E VC E A C AL EN DAR ...U P C O M IN G C LU B E V EN TS
Date
Event
Location
April 4, 2009
VCEA Meeting
To Be Announced
April 25, 2009
Spring Carlisle
Carlisle, PA
May 3, 2009
Apple Blossom Car Show/
VCEA Meeting
Winchester, VA
June 4-6, 2009
Chevell-abration
Goodlettsville, TN
June 27-28, 2009
Mid-Atlantic Chevelle Show
North East, MD
VCEA Newsletter Volume 7, Issue 1
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M E M B E R ’ S R ID E …
C HRIS W ILLIAMS ’ ‘72 C HEV ELLE
A little here, a little
there…
Chris Williams’ ‘72
Chevelle transforms
before our eyes, with
steady updates just in
time for the 2009
season. Case in
point, these beautiful
new “SS”
stripes...nice touch
Chris!
VCEA Member News
We’re proud to welcome the newest members to VCEA…
Mickey Pessagno
66 Chevelle
Alexandria, VA
Mike Drennan
72 Chevelle
Fredericksburg, VA
Buck Feathers
66 El Camino
Front Royal, VA
Gary Sutherlin
66 El Camino
Manassas, VA
Correction from last “VCEA Member News” should have read
Stuart Robeson
(not “Stuart Robesonir”)
66 Chevelle Convertible
66 Chevelle
67 El Camino
Warrenton, VA
VCEA Newsletter Volume 7, Issue 1
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T O P 1 0 R EA SO NS TO V IS I T C HE VE LL - A B R ATIO N 2 0 09 !
J O HN P AR KE R , VCEA P RE SI DE NT
Now we’re talking...this is the
time of year when men’s hearts
start to rumble with the sound of
big blocks, the smell of highoctane, and the longing to hit the
‘go fast’ pedal. No doubt we’re all
ready to hit the road and get kneedeep into the upcoming cruise season. Having been to the last couple
Chevell-abrations, I wanted to share
my observations and encourage
your participation in the 2009
Chevell-abration events. So, here
are the Top 10 reasons to put Chevell-abration on your calendar:
10. “Road Trip!” — There’s something about a road trip...you know
what I mean, the waking up early,
heading in the opposite direction of
the morning commute, stopping at
truck stops to gas up (and sampling
truck stop junk food!)...then there’s
exchanging “thumbs-up” with other
Chevelle drivers along the way,
which you’re sure experience the
entire way! With the ease of air
travel, sometimes we forget how
good road trips can be...enjoying
the blue ridge views, scanning local
radio stations, and anticipating the
good times ahead.
9. Parts & Vendors — If you need
it, they’re there...one stop shopping
and saving on shipping? Priceless!
And who knows, maybe they can
help find that lost treasure you’ve
been looking for...like the ‘72 Super Sport steering wheel, which I
hear could be a feature in the next
episode of Raiders of the Lost Ark!
8. Vacation — what better way to
put something good on your calendar, giving you something to look
forward to and being able to spend
quality time with the ones you
love...your car AND your family!
Folks planning Chevell-abration
know time (and money) is tight,
and the best experience will allow
for a great balance of car time and
family time. Don’t forget the hotel
pools!
7. Restoration Seminars — getting
the latest on technology, products,
and tips from industry experts to
keep you and your car fresh. From
cooling systems, paint, interiors,
and the best restoration experts...even if you don’t have/want
a show car, you’ll pick up tidbits to
keep your ride safe, sound, and on
the road.
6. Hotel Parking Lots — wow, this
could take up the remaining spaces,
but there’s something about bumping into and hanging out with
Chevelle/El Camino owners from
around the country (and around the
world!) both before and after the
days events. Bumping into “Heart
of Dixie” members during the free
breakfast or bench racing with
“Peach State Chevelle Club” members before dinner, you realize a
common bond with the good folks
that keep this hobby on track.
5. “Chevelleville” — sort of like
Disneyland for Chevelle owners,
seeing a modern day city swarming
with rumbling big blocks and beautiful A-bodies from yesteryear. Almost everywhere you look there are
Chevelles and El Caminos prowling
the streets of Goodlettsville: gas
stations, drive-thrus, restaurants,
shopping malls, Wal-Mart's, driveins, and even barber shops! Just
like yesterday...only better.
4. Comparing notes & getting information — what better way of
improving your car, saving time
and money, and getting the best in-
Chevell-abration 2009
Quick Facts:
When? June 4-6, 2009
Where? Goodlettsville, TN
What’s the big deal? The largest
gathering of 1964-1972 Chevelles,
Malibus, and El Caminos from
around the country with fun filled
events for the entire family!
Where to stay? VCEA members,
along with many Chevelle clubs
from the south, stay at the Holiday
Inn Express, Goodlettsville, TN (1615-851-1891)
How to participate:
1. Be an ACES member
2. Register by May 15, 2009
A must-do at least once, whether
as spectator or participant, for any
Chevelle, Malibu, or El Camino
owner...make plans and we’ll see
you there!!!
formation from actual survivors,
originals, and folks that faced the
same challenges. Tips, tricks, lessons learned from folks who are
willing to share...no strings attached!
3. The Events — drive through the
countryside, a trip to the drag strips,
awards ceremony, creeper
races...literally something fun for
the entire family, all the ingredients
for a great family vacation.
2. The People — chance to meet
outstanding Chevelle and El
Camino enthusiasts from around
the country and even far off places
like Hawaii and Dublin, Ireland.
1. The Cars!! — can’t forget the
best reason and great examples of
drivers, survivors, and show winners...an awesome display of America’s Favorite Muscle Car — the
Chevelle!! Whew, is it June yet?!?!
VCEA Newsletter Volume 7, Issue 1
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Virginia Chevelle Enthusiasts
Association
www.chevelles.net/vcea
Name:
Address:
Email:
Chevrolet 1964-72 A-Bodies Owned (NOTE: You do NOT need to own one to join VCEA)
Year:_________ Model:_____________________________ Engine:______
Year:_________ Model:_____________________________ Engine:______
Special skill, talent, or area of interest (optional):________________
Membership Fees are $10 yearly
Enclosed is my check made out to John Parker for $10 ______
By signing this application I agree to follow the by-laws of VCEA
Mail Application & Check To:
John Parker,
VCEA President
8100 Willingboro Ct.
Gainesville, VA 20155
Signature________________________________________ Date___/___/_____
Application for membership in the
AMERICAN CHEVELLE ENTHUSIASTS SOCIETY
Name______________________________ Phone____________________
Address____________________________________________________
City____________________ State________________ Zip__________
E Mail Address____________________________________( if applicable )
Year, Model, and description of your Chevelle(s)
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
___ Enclosed is $45 for regular membership (US only)
___ Enclosed is $65 for Canadian membership (US funds only)
___ Enclosed is $85 for foreign membership (US funds only)
Make checks or money orders payable to:
American Chevelle Enthusiasts Society
900 Conference Drive, Ste 1-B #222
Goodlettsville, TN 37072
VCEA Newsletter Volume 7, Issue 1
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Sponsor Spotlight...Thanks to our VCEA Sponsors!!
Get your Ausley’s Chevelle Parts at
these regional shows...
March 1919-21—
Run to the Sun, Myrtle Beach, SC
April 2424-26—
Super Chevy, Dinwiddie, VA
April 2222-26—
Spring Carlisle, Carlisle, PA
See the Hinshaw’s Chevelle
Parts at these regional shows…
April 1818-19—
Call today for all your Chevelle and
El Camino needs…(336) 586-0802
www.hinshawschevelle.com
Carolina Autofest, Kenansville, NC
June 44- 6 —
Chevell-abration, Goodlettsville, TN
June 2727-28—
Mid-Atlantic Chevelle Show, Northeast, MD
Bubba’s East Coast
Rods & Customs
Your One-stop Classic & Custom Car Shop
9494 Fairfax Blvd, Fairfax, VA
Monday—Friday, 8 am—5 pm
703-766-0295
http://www.bubbascustomcars.com/
Virginia Chevelle Enthusiasts Association
www.chevelles.net/vcea
VCEA Newsletter Volume 7, Issue 1
Join the Virginia Chevelle Enthusiasts at the
19th Annual Apple Blossom Show
In Winchester, VA on Sunday May 3
For a Car Show and Meeting...See you there!!!
8
VCEA Newsletter Volume 7, Issue 1
Chevell-abration 2009 Registration Form
9
VCEA Newsletter Volume 7, Issue 1
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