In addition to some of our newest products such as the STS, the LaCrosse, the G6, and the XLR, we're featuring TEN 2005 Corvette Coupes and Convertibles in various colors along with a few very special Corvettes:

A 1953 Corvette...car number 255 built that year......
The Astro II Corvette Concept
The Manta Ray Corvette Concept
The 1972 "XP-895" Aluminum Bodied Corvette Experimental

Plus a 'taste' of our Historical Fleet.......

1949 Buick Estate Wagon
1948 Chevy Series 1500 Pickup
1940 Oldsmobile Series 90
1939 Buick Series 40 Phaeton
1936 Pontiac DeLuxe Sedan
1933 Cadillac Series 355-C with Body by Fisher
1932 Chevrolet Cabriolet
1930 Olds F30
1952 Saab Model 92

and several other current GM models..........

Hours of operation.........

Weekdays - 9 am thru 9pm
EXCEPT:

Closed December 24 thru January 2
Closed January 14-15 for private function....

Open Saturday and Sunday Jan 8 and 9, 22, and 23.

>2004 Grand Prix NASCAR Pace Car. ....Silver with Red/Blue
graphics......strobes removed
>2000 Cavalier "Race for the Cure" Cavalier by Betsy Johnson.....Pink
>with
lots of "things that go sparkle" in the interior......(think of the movie "Legally Blond")
>1999 Olds Bravada IRL Support Vehicle....Green with White checkerboard
paint scheme ....strobes removed
>1996 Camaro Brickyard 400 (1997 30th Anniversary Livery) ...this is
>the
"duplicate" pace car....strobes removed and stock CHMSL reattached.
>1991 GMC Syclone Regular production unit Cadillac LMP Race
>car.......no engine, no electronics....but a cool
looking race car nonetheless!
>2004 Corvette Daytona 500 Pace Car (yellow with graphics) .. strobes
removed...this is the 'duplicate' pace car
>2003 "24 hours of LeMans" Safety car....in 50th Livery with all
graphics.....
>2003 "24 hours of LeMans" Pace car....in 50th Livery with all
graphics.......

NOTE: Cadillac LMP, Camaro Brickyard 400 and LeMans Pace car will be on display at the Phoenix auction.....not sold there...but to increase interest in Palm Beach Auction.

The first is from Chris Renner (MTFBA)....and he's started an Fbody Classifieds Website....lots of stuff to look at and a great place to find another Camaro or Firebird.......(you can NEVER have too many!)

http://www.fbodyclassifieds.com

The goal of the site is to give the F-body online community a single place to transact private party business, whether that be whole cars or just parts and accessories.

Chris Renner
President, Middle Tennessee F-Body Assn.
http://www.mtfba.org

*******************************************

AND....our friends at www.fbodyaddict.com have also published a Camaro/Firebird calendar...ordering info. below:

There will be two methods of payment, and the cost is $20.00 US Dollars.
1) PayPal to doug@xerostudios.com
DO NOT FORGET to send me an email at that address as well, stating your name, how much money you sent (how many calendars you are ordering), what name (on paypal) it is sent from, and the address in which I will be sending the calendar. And any other info you feel necessary. I will let you know when the money has been received.

2) Send a money order to:

Doug Rohde
736 Helga Drive
Woodstock, GA 30188

Don't forget to include your name and address in which the calendar will be shipped, along with how many calendars you have ordered (even though I can do the math on the money order.) If you leave an e-mail address in this I will also try and let you know its been received. For questions or comments please feel free to email us at Xero@fbodyaddict.com

Doug Rohde.

**********************************

Many of you know our good friend, Dan Abbene -- "Happy Dan" on most boards....and owner of a beautiful Black SS.
Dan has started a new business....but I wanted to send this to you because he's making a discount available to all Camaro/Firebird Enthusiasts on performance parts thru December 31........so, for that guy or gal with a 4th gen.......here's some great ideas for Christmas Presents.

And, our Friend, Al Poulin, who many of you met at the Camaro/Firebird Invasion at Bowling Green this year (and owner of a 35th Anny Camaro) has just been licensed not only for 35th Anniversary wearables, BUT ALSO 30th Anniversary items...which are pretty hard to find.

You can reach Dan at:

www.detaildriven.net

And Al at:

info@carshirtsetc.com

Oh yeah.....our attorneys insist that I tell you that GM does not sponsor these or any other sites. If I don't, they've threatened to throw me in GM Jail (again) and then force me to drive a Mustang after I get out..............so there.....................

He sent me the following and I'm sending it on to you. SLP is offering a 10% discount on not only Camaro SS and Firehawk replacement parts, but also on all of SLP's new products for performance cars and trucks.

Go take a look at the website when you get a chance, and feel free to distribute this to your email lists for your clubs.

Meanwhile, "keep the faith".

Scott

Ed writes:

For your enthusiasts, be aware that SLP has now released, for the first time, two new catalogs and price lists covering SLP's Camaro SS and Firehawk Replacement parts.
As a gesture of thanks to all those die-hard F-Body enthusiasts you keep in touch with, SLP is offering a 10% discount, not only for it's Camaro SS and Firehawk parts, but also on all of SLP's new products for performance cars and trucks that we've just released and have listed on our website, www.slponline.com. They can also request on line, that new catalogs be sent to them as well. This offer is good until September 30th,'04. In order to receive the discount, they must use the discount code, FBODY1.

Sept 16-18th in Bowling Green, Kentucky.

A LOT of stuff to do.

Tours of the Corvette Assembly Plant
Tours of the Corvette Museum
Historic Fbodies from the GM Historic Collection Drag Racing at Beech Bend Race Park Auto Cross at Beech Bend Dyno Testing Several Scenic Road Tours to choose from Welcome Picnic at the "1869 Homestead"
Go Kart racing and challenge
Various Seminars in the Corvette Theatre along with Guest Speakers Celebrity Picks and Peoples' Choice Award Car show (no regular judging...come relax....) Vendor Display Optional Saturday Evening Banquet Memorabilia Auction with proceeds to benefit the NCM Special SSOA Member get-together

---and most important, some of the best looking Camaros and Firebirds from around the United States and Canada and their owners.

This is a great show to kick back and relax with old friends, and make some new friends.

More info. and registration at www.corvettemuseum.com click on Fbody Invasion.

Activities are ala carte.

-----finally......the challenge remains 1,000 Fbodies and I quit smoking for good!

I hope to see you there and am trying to figure out how to spend all the money I'm gonna save from not buying smokes...( I KNOW you're not gonna let me down.....)

....hmmmmm...maybe a museum wing for Camaros and FIrebirds at the NCM.

As we celebrate with friends and family, let's not forget those who have made untold sacrifices so that we can enjoy the freedoms we've been given.

As we celebrate....let's make sure we stop to think about how fortunate we are.

Let's not forget our men and women in the armed services as they fight for freedom.........and those recovering from the horrors of war.

Now....

You KNOW I'm gonna ask you to wear your seat belt. And you KNOW I'm gonna ask you not to drink and drive. And you KNOW I'm gonna ask you to pull over every couple of hours to take a break if you're driving any distance. BUT........I also need to ask you to take it easy if you're boating, or on a motorcycle or a bike.

Drinking and Driving doesn't always apply just to cars and trucks.

The 4th of July is a time for celebration.

Please....I beg you.........don't turn it into something that you or your loved ones will remember with dismay for years to come.

For those of you attending Superfest, have a great time, drive safe, and arrive alive.

On behalf of all the men and women at Chevy, I wish you a safe and happy Fourth of July.

Now go enjoy those Camaros and Firebirds!

Scott
(aka Red Planet aka Fbodfather)

Here's a great website with Camaro SS and Firehawk stuff.....note the shirts, hats, FOLDING CHAIRS (!!!!) and Beachtowels to name a few.

www.amsmerchandise.com

Also, Chevy Mall and Pontiac Mall have just added some new items. (such as Z28 jackets and jackets with the various "Camaro" signatures from the 35 year history.

www.chevymall.com

www.pontiacmall.com

Own a Piece of Corvette C5R Racing History
Winning 2002 # 3 Corvette Nose to be Auctioned at Sebring March 20, 2004 Petaluma, CA, March 11, 2004: The actual nose section from the #3 Corvette C5R that won the GTS Class at the 2002 12 Hours of Sebring will be auctioned at Sebring International Raceway on March 20th. This historic piece of Corvette C5R Racing memorabilia will be in the ALMS Event Merchandise Tent in the Paddock Area near the tower beginning Tuesday, March 16.

"As Corvette Racing enthusiasm continues to build, we feel that this is a way we let our fans share in the rapidly developing history of the Corvette C5R", says Program Manager Doug Fehan. "Our plans are to auction additional historic pieces at future ALMS races this season, added Mr. Fehan

The #3 Corvette driven by Ron Fellows, Johnny O'Connell and Oliver Gavin finished first in the GTS Class with 317 laps completed, finished 9th overall, and was first in GTS qualifying with a speed of 111.279mph. This was the Corvette C5R's first victory at Sebring, thus making this piece a special part of Corvette Racing History.

The silent auction will begin Thursday March 18, and will closed Saturday March 20 at 6PM during the 2004 Mobil 1 12 Hours of Sebring. The minimum staring bid is $3000. Proceeds will go to support the Corvette C5R Racing Program.

ChevyMall.com is General Motors Official Web Site for Chevrolet and Corvette Licensed Merchandise. The site offers the largest collection of Corvette C5R Racing Gear anywhere including the official team caps and crew shirts. www.chevymall.com

www.barrett-jackson.com

www.barrett-jackson.com/about/pressreleases/2004PBCCCA.asp

35th Anniversary CamaroBrickyard VIN #2 2002
Corvette Indy Pace Car #2 - Duplicate 1998
Camaro Brickyard Pace Car - Duplicate 1996
Camaro IROC Live Aid 1985
Syclone (Duplicate) 1991
GFX Jimmy 1998
Bravada IRL Support Vehicle 1999
Cavalier Betsey Johnson Concept Cure 2000
Silhouette IRL Support Vehicle 1999
Lesabre 2000
Alero 2001
Alero Zebra 2001
Impala SS Indy 2004
Riviera Wildcat 1998
Aurora IRL Pace Car 2001
Aurora IRL Pace Car 2001
SEMA Sonoma ZR-5 2001
Firebird Daytona Pace Car 2002
Rendezvous PGA Tour 2002
Bravada 2001
Grand Prix GTP Ram Air 1998
Corvette Indy Pace Car 1986
Century 2000
Sierra Joseph Abboud Concept 1999
Aurora Indy Pace Car #3 2001
Intrigue Zebra 2001
Park Avenue NSGA VIP 2000
Camaro RS F1 1996
Play it Loud Z-28 1995
Tahoe Northface 2000
Alero FX Razzi 1999
Sierra "Ace" Concept 1999
Suburban Rt Family 2000
Bravada 2002
Skoal Bandit #33 #2 1985
Aurora GTS Race 2001
SC2 "Slam" 2001
Bravada IRL Pace Car 2002
Bravada Indy Pace Car #2 2002
S-10 ZZ 4.3 1998
Aurora 2001

I do not have descriptions for all vehicles, although I do know most of the Chevrolets that are included.

Below is a link to an interview on Edmunds.com with a look at "GM's Car Czar" that I think you'll find informative and inspiring. As many of you know, I'm glad he's here and pleased that things are changing at warp speed.

(I'm also glad he and I agree on his comments about buying American vs. Foreign!)

http://www.edmunds.com/advice/specialreports/articles/100660/article.html?tid=edmunds.h..reviews.graphic.18

Shuttle services available to and from the Austin Convention Center. Participants coming from the auto show will need to have their hand stamped by the security personnel in the red jackets by the main entrance to be allowed re-entry. The shuttle will run from 10AM to 6PM Saturday and Sunday.

The XM Radio, Chevy Soccer Tour, and Chevy Recording Studio will be on site for the consumers to enjoy while they wait for their turn on the track.

A list of the vehicles to test drive and see on display are attached below.

There will be a hospitality tent on site for those to enjoy once they have taken the Chevy Challenge.There will be registration available for those who participate in the Chevy Challenge to win a pair of 2004 SBC Red River Shootout tickets.

Vehicles Scheduled for Test Drive - Subject to Change
2004 Malibu
2004 Colorado
2004 Silverado - One with quadrasteer
2004 Suburban
2004 Trailblazer EXT
2004 Impala SS

Vehicles for Display -
Subject to Change
Cavalier
Malibu
Impala SS
Monte Carlo
Corvette
S-10
Silverado
Avalanche
Trailblazer
Tahoe
Suburban
SSR
Aveo

The latest issue of CHEVY HI PERFORMANCE magazine features an article about the Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving. Located in Chandler, Arizona, the Bondurant School is adjacent to Firebird Raceway and is close to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport. You can get additional information on the Bondurant School and the various courses offered by logging onto www.bondurant.com or calling 800-842-7223 -- tell 'em Scott sent you!

Phoenix is the perfect winter getaway for those of us in northern climates and what better combination could you have than perfect warm weather and some seat time behind the wheel of a Corvette or CTS on a high performance driving course? A seat at the Bondurant School is the perfect Christmas gift............ You may also want to check with your insurance carrier about the possibility of a discount on your car/truck insurance once you complete the course.

Bondurant features the Chevrolet Corvette and Cadillac CTS in their courses and is Chevrolet and Cadillac's Official High Performance Driving School.

For clubs that wish to inquire about a group rate, please call 800-842-7223 and ask for Greg Fresquez, Director of Marketing for the Bondurant School.

I sent you a special offer earlier this week from SLP Engineering.

Attached is a special offer from SLP Performance Parts.......you asked, you got!

Please note the Promotional Code....EM03. As before, please feel free to pass this on to your fellow Camaro/Firebird Enthusiasts.

Scott

Summer's finally here, and the folks at SLP Performance Parts are celebrating with a special offer for their friends in the F-Body community. From July 15 through August 15, 2003, receive a 5% discount on all phone orders of $250.00 or more!

Whether you're looking for a set of OE take-off wheels, a "Loud Mouth" cat-back system, or even a max-effort LS1 head-and-cam package, SLP Performance Parts has everything you need to set your Camaro or Firebird apart from the pack.

Just call (732) 349-2109 and tell your salesperson you'd like to use Promotional Code EM03. Not sure what you want? Simply log on to www.slponline.com for a complete listing of SLP Performance Parts products.

Sorry, this offer cannot be combined with any other discounts or promotions.

Our Friends at SLP Engineering -- those great men and women that brought you the Camaro SS and Firehawk -- have a special deal for you.

Starting TODAY -- July 10 thru Friday AUGUST 15, receive a 10% discount on orders over $250 on all SLP Engineering Camaro SS and Firehawk Replacement parts.

From car covers and keyfobs -- decals and and grilles -- to wheels and floormats...........there's lots of stuff for your Camaro or Firebird available at special prices.

Simply log onto www.slpeng.com/findparts and call 1-800-533-5673.

You MUST give the special Promo. Code which is PRO709 to get the discount.

Please feel free to forward this email on to your fellow clubmembers and webmasters.

Most of us will take to the roads (hopefully in our Camaros and Firebirds) to visit friends and family ....or to attend Camaro Superfest.

As you spend time with loved ones, please take a moment to think about all of those who have given of themselves to allow us to live in this Great Land. Let's also not forget those men and women who are serving our country in lands worldwide.

You know how I feel about safety belts............so it goes without saying.

I just received the following from my cousin Marnie in Ohio.....and thought it appropriate. While it is humorous, let's not forget how many people may die this weekend all because someone 'had one too many.'

Have a great Holiday...........and remember: "Fbodies Arrive Alive!"

Scott
(aka Fbodfather aka RedPlanet)

Don't think for a minute about being among the FIRST to go FORTH on the THIRD

To get a FIFTH for the FOURTH;

For he who drives FORTH with a FIFTH on the FOURTH,

May never drive FORTH on the FIFTH.

I was truly amazed at the number of notes and emails I received after sending that email. I also received a few interesting phone calls from some friends that really felt a grassroots effort is needed to get people to start buckling their safety belts every time they get into their cars and trucks.

The first call was from my friends Rob and Gina Harrington (Camaro Legends, a local Camaro club out of Virginia Beach) They own Harrington Graphics and really wanted to get involved in a meaningful way of getting people to pledge that they would always buckle up, every time, no excuses. That people will agree not to drink and drive, and that we'll "take it to the track" rather than street race. They offered to develop and produce decals and a pledge that could be distributed to Camaro and Firebird Clubs worldwide. The second call came thru the Harringtons. Joe Whitaker at Worldwide Camaro/Classic Chevy International felt that this effort was a great service to enthusiasts everywhere, and he agreed to develop a pledge and work with us on the project and offer any help he and his organization might be able to provide. The third call was from Andy and Sherrie Archer
(Fbodygathering.com) and they offered to provide a website dedicated to this endeavor.

Please understand that this effort is only in its infancy, but we all hope Camaro and Firebird Clubs everywhere will embrace this idea, take the pledge, and help spread the word.

The website will be up and running in the very near future. You can find it at www.CamaroFirebirdNation.com. You'll be able to download a graphics complete pledge and you'll be able to request decals in club quantity within the next two to three weeks. We don't have a method of fulfilling individual requests at the present time. ('cause we're going to stuff and address the envelopes as the requests come thru, and depending on how well the idea is received, it may be difficult to do individual requests at the beginning of the program) The decal is about the size of a half-dollar and reads "Fbodies Arrive Alive" and includes the Camaro and Firebird Emblems. There is also a picture of a safetybelt being buckled, along with the web address.

We ask you to "take the pledge" (which I'm including at the end of this note) and in fact announced the program this past weekend simultaneously at "Camaros at Carlisle" and the Ontario Camaro Nationals.

Please...take a moment at your next club meeting to discuss this idea. One of the real pleasures inherent in owning a Firebird or Camaro is the "forging of friendships" that naturally occurs between like-minded people. And because you are our Friend, we care about you and yours?.and hope you'll join us.

For those of you who think that the threat is not real or perhaps we are overreacting: National Statistics reveal that nearly 25% of you out there will be involved in a serious or fatal automobile accident in the future. That's a pretty sobering statistic??..so let's stack the deck in your favor.

I hope we'll have your personal support.

Scott
(aka Fbodfather aka RedPlanet)

" THE FBODIES ARRIVE ALIVE PLEDGE"

By acknowledging and signing this pledge, you are with us.

With us by always wearing your safety belt and insisting that your passengers wear them as well, every time, no excuses.

With us by never drinking and driving --- and taking the keys from those who try.

With us by grinning and shaking your head "no way" at the guy or gal at the redlight that wants to street race.

With us by realizing your car or truck can be a lethal weapon if you allow it to be.

www.CamaroFirebirdNation.com

Keystone Camaros is holding its Annual Camaro/Firebird (yes....Firebirds!) Show and "Cruise to Mars" (which happens to be my home town) on June 21 and 22nd.

Seems the Mayor of Mars (which happens to be my brother) has the power to conduct Wedding Ceremonies.

(this makes me want to yell 'Run Forrest, Run...' but once again, I digress...)

Seems that a certain well-known-to-many Camaro Couple are going to renew their wedding vows on their anniversary at the Cruise to Mars on Saturday Evening the 21st of June -- hopefully in front of the "Space Ship" found in the Mars Borough Town Square. (no, I'm not making this up) They want to line the streets on both sides with Camaros and Firebirds, and need your help to do that. They also want as many of you in attendance as possible.

We'd love to have you and yours attend this event.

(and hey, the Mayor will renew your vows, if you wish, for absolutely free...or else!)

More details about the show can be found at:
http://www.tomhenrychevy.com/specials.html or call 1-877-THCHEVY

And hey...if you show up, you can take pictures of your Camaro or Firebird next to a Flying Saucer and tell everyone you drove your car to Mars and back.

Newspaper Article page 1 Page 2
News 11 "Two Die In Drag Race Accident"
Atlanta Journal-Constitution "Street race ends fatally for two riders"
Newsday.com "Two South Carolina men killed in drag-racing accident"
The State.com "Two South Carolina men killed in drag-racing accident"
South Carolina F/Ybodies "Deadly car crash in Atlanta SCFYB members involoved"

Dear Firebird and Camaro Friends, I'm going to post this on chirpthird and SLP...please...feel free to post it on whatever board you feel is appropriate. Send it on to friends, and put it in your newsletters if you feel it is appropriate to do so.

A whole bunch of people looked forward to this Memorial Day weekend. Many of them spending it in Atlanta with fellow Fcar enthusiasts.

A few young men I'm sure were looking forward to driving in from the Carolinas.

It was a great show. Hundreds of Firebirds and Camaros lovingly maintained/restored/modified. A great tour of GMMG. Some great vendor displays. A Beach Party. A weekend built around a way to remember our veterans and those who gave their lives for our country.

But a tragedy happened early Sunday morning.

We (as well as most manufacturers) build performance cars. We build them with many, many safety features. We try to anticipate human error. But some things can't be anticipated. And it's especially hard to engineer for bad judgement on the part of the driver.

We put safety belts in all of our cars and trucks.

No, we don't deserve a gold medal for this 'it's the law'...a GOOD law. It's also the law in most states that you are supposed to put them on when you get in the vehicle. I guess we don't know whether or not the fellows in the back seat of the Camaro SS on Windy Hill road would have survived had they had put the belts on.

Windy Hill Road in suburban Atlanta has curves and elevations. It has as I recall, a 35 mph speed limit. It was not designed for cars to travel at twice or three times that speed.

In some ways, I guess I was fortunate. I was in my hotel room. It was late, and it was a long day. I had a great time meeting a lot of great people and spending time with some old friends. So I retired around 1 am and went to sleep. I didn't have to witness the heartbreaking catastrophe firsthand.

I wasn't prepared to hear the news the next morning. I -- as I'm sure many others are -- am still in shock. And I pray for the families and friends of all involved.

I guess at this point in time, I can only hope that amidst this terrible, terrible tragedy that perhaps those who attended the Gathering, those of you reading this, and those who read the newspapers/websites and watched TV will think twice before getting into a car or truck and not putting the safety belt on ---PROPERLY --- each and every time. Second: If you want to race, take it to the track guys and gals. Or to the dyno. (the dyno doesn't involve driver error.)

Simply put: We know these cars are powerful. I like burnouts as much as the next guy or gal, but there is a time and place for that....and it isn't in a parking lot or on the street. It's at the track under controlled conditions.

I don't ever want to see a street race. I don't ever want to see another burnout in a parking lot.

And I don't EVER want to hear about one or more of my fellow enthusiasts who I care a great deal for... being killed in one of our cars or trucks. Is it avoidable? I sure wish it were.

So how 'bout we make sure we 'stack the deck' in our favor?

How 'bout we make a commitment to each other RIGHT NOW that we pledge never to street race, ever? (And I don't care HOW many other motorists are egging you on.)

How 'bout we make a commitment to each other RIGHT NOW that we will ALWAYS wear a safety belt, and that goes for everyone in the car or truck with us?

How 'bout we make a commitment to each other RIGHT NOW that we will tell our loved ones how much they mean to us, and that we DEMAND that they wear a safety belt? Every time? No excuses.

(You think a safety belt is uncomfortable? Well how about this statistic: A 180 pound human being traveling in a car at 35 miles per hour that strikes a solid object will create THIRTY SIX HUNDRED POUNDS OF FORCE. Do you want that 3,600 pounds of force to be dissipated by a safety belt or do you want it dissipated by a steering wheel and windshield or the pavement -----now, do you still think the seatbelt is uncomfortable?)

Some of you may say "Scott, stop with the rant, it's inappropriate at this time." To you I say, " I care about you and my fellow enthusiasts and friends and loved ones. And I don't want to attend your funeral or see you in a hospital due to an avoidable accident. So if I'm being inappropriate, it's because I care."

To the family and friends of those who lost their lives this weekend in Atlanta: You have my prayers. I don't know that I or anyone else have the words to console you other than to say how very deeply saddened and sorry I am for your loss. And many of us will be thinking of you for a lot longer than you might imagine.

To the organizers (my very dear friends) of the Atlanta Fbody Gathering: You have worked so long and so hard to put such a great event together. This was not your fault. People come from many states to enjoy the passion that these cars generate. We are indebted to you for your hard work, and we hope we'll be invited back again next year. Thank you for your hospitality, thank you for your friendship, and thank you for all the good things you do for the F-car community.

To the Associates at the Marriott Atlanta Northwest: Thank you for your kind understanding and for all you did to help everyone through this weekend. You are truly a class act.

In closing, Everyone: Wear your safety belts. No more street racing. Put the cell phone down when behind the wheel. Practice safe driving habits. If you're going to drink, don't drive. No one should lose his or her life needlessly. And remember, every time you get behind the wheel... YOU are in charge. Don't turn your vehicle into a lethal weapon.

Spread the word.

9,300 lives!

As we approach another Holiday Weekend, the following article has even more importance.......many Americans and Canadians will be taking to the highways for a long weekend.

Most of you have heard me talk (on more than one occasion) about the importance of Seat Belts.......and USING them. As I watch the local news each evening, it seems that at least one person (if not more) loses their life in Metro Detroit every week because they weren't wearing a seabelt--- and I guess I just don't understand why this has to be.

Chevrolet, as you will see below, is supporting the "Buckle Up, America" Campaign in the month of May.

Please.....I'm begging you..............pass this message on to all of your family and friends......there simply is no good reason NOT to buckle up....and that goes for everyone in the vehicle...regardless of how short the trip may be. (you'd be surprised at what happens to your body in a 20mph crash without a seatbelt).

Have a safe and happy holiday weekend.

Scott

CHEVROLET URGES DRIVERS TO ARRIVE SAFELY BY BUCKLING UP . . . In an effort to increase safety belt use, Chevrolet is supporting the "Buckle Up, America!" campaign by using print, broadcast and electronic advertising including a special message during the month of May. The message is, "Don't Just Get There, Get There Safely. Buckle Up." Divisional Marketing General Manager for Chevrolet Brent
Dewar said the message is an important one: "We urge everyone to buckle up -- every time, on every trip. Safety belts are the most important safety equipment that we offer in Chevrolet cars and trucks. We encourage everyone driving and riding in our vehicles to use their safety belts and to properly secure their children in child restraints." The campaign supports "Buckle Up, America!" week in the United States May 19-26. Broadcast messages are planned for major networks such as ABC, and cable stations such as ESPN. Print advertisements started running in USA Today on Friday, May 16, and in Sports Illustrated, People, and Time during the week of May 19. Web banners will run during that same week. "During the last two weeks of May, safety agencies are getting out the message to buckle up. Safety belts save lives, and it's the law. We appreciate Chevrolet's help in spreading this important safety belt message," said NHTSA Administrator Jeffrey W. Runge, M.D. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration,

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>9,300 lives<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

Would be saved each year if everyone would buckle up, including adults using safety belts and children in appropriate child safety seats.

How do you outdo the original ZL1? You start with America's Best Bang for the Buck Camaro and add an LS6 engine. Then you add a chambered exhaust and a few other performance parts...........and the Camaro SuperCar is born.

The attached is a Berger Chevrolet Press Release that I thought you'd want to read. (sorry, it's a big file, but well worth it!)
(See attached file: BergerZL1PR0503DM.pdf)

It applies to pets, as well.

SUMMER SAFETY. . . With temperatures rising across the country, now is the time to focus on the dangers of leaving young children alone in parked cars and trucks ? many children die each year as the result of being trapped in hot vehicles. Additionally, new research from GM and the National SAFE KIDS Campaign shows that humidity significantly
increases these dangers. Using adult male volunteers, research showed that in simulated humid heat conditions (98-100.4 degrees Fahrenheit/55 percent relative humidity), the men were unable to dissipate heat from their body core to their skin within just six minutes. When heat can't be dissipated, it builds up in the body, and heatstroke may occur. GM is using this research to develop sensor technology to alert passersby to the presence of a child or vulnerable adult trapped in a dangerously hot vehicle. GM and SAFE KIDS are also distributing free, English/Spanish brochures that include safety tips and information about the dangers of leaving children in unattended vehicles. They may be ordered by calling 1-866-700-001 (choose option No. 2) or downloaded directly from www.gmability.com or www.safekids.org

Of Particular interest: Two 1:18 scale die cast First Gen Camaros with a "special deal" if you received this email (or read this on a website).

The first is from GMP and it is a replica of the first Trans Am Camaro that Roger Penske set up for Mark Donahue, #36. It is available now.

The second is from Exact Detail Replicas and it is the 1967 Indy Pace Car. I have a sample of this die cast and it is incredible. It is shipping in June. This replica is a classic.

From Jim Meyer at Chevy Mall:

"These are limited editions and are for the serious collectors and enthusiasts. These models set a new standard in quality for the Camaro Diecast on ChevyMall. If they sell well, we will offer more as they are released. Both vendors have more Camaro's planned, if these sell out."

Take a look: (Click on the links below)

1967 1:18 Donhaue & Penske Camaro

1967 1:18 Camaro Indy Pace Car Replica

So here is the deal. When ordering, enter the Digital Coupon SS352 in Stage 3 of the checkout process, and Chevy Mall will include a free 1:18 scale display case with the purchase of these die cast. This offer expires May 31, 2003.

GM RAISING THE CURTAIN AT TRIBECA FILM FESTIVAL

The 2003 Tribeca Film Festival taking place May 3 - 11 will include over 300 premiere screenings for an estimated 75,000 moviegoers. As the Official Vehicle Provider, General Motors will host screenings at a 1950's style "Drive-In" along Lower Manhattan's waterfront, May 8 - 10. Although New Yorkers are encouraged to walk rather than drive to the event, several GM vehicles will be on display to make the evening truly reminiscent of the 1950's Drive-In theaters. The all-new Cadillac XLR, Chevrolet SSR and Saab 9-3 convertibles will give New Yorkers a sampling of GM's hot "gotta have" products, while a "50 Years of Corvette" display featuring five historic Corvettes as well as a 50th Anniversary coupe and convertible will commemorate the brand's June 30 anniversary. Prior to each movie screening, viewers can catch a preview of famed documentary director Ken Burns' upcoming release Horatio's Drive, narrated by Tom Hanks, which details the role the automobile played in changing the nation.

I know many of you are active and retired members of the Armed Services of the United States. This incentive is in addition to all other retail incentives currently offered.

We're proud of you!

GM SAYS THANKS TO MILITARY PERSONNEL . . . GM today announced revisions to its long-standing vehicle purchase program for military personnel. This special offer is extended in appreciation and support of the efforts of members of the United States military. Military personnel, including active duty, Reserve, National Guard and retired members of the U.S. Air Force, Army, Navy, Marines and Coast Guard, can get $750 cash back when they purchase or lease any new GM car or truck. GM also is offering 90-days deferred payments to qualified military personnel when financing through dealers and GMAC. These offers are transferable to an individual residing in the same household and are in addition to many of the other offers already available from GM. Advertising for these offers will appear in military publications and websites beginning in early May.

FOR MORE INFORMATION . . . Military personnel interested in attractive GMAC financing can call GMAC's dedicated call center hotline established specifically for members of the U.S. military. By calling toll free 1-888-262-2393 through Sept. 2, 2003, military personnel can learn about GMAC financing options and if they qualify for pre-approved GMAC financing. They also can apply quickly online at http://www.gmacfs.com and visit their GM dealer to complete the
credit application process.

And for all U.S. Residents:

AD CAMPAIGN FOR TEST DRIVE KICKS OFF . . . An aggressive national TV and print ad campaign for GM's 24-hour test drive program begins today. The TV campaign includes one 60-second and two 30-second spots that invite consumers to take a 24-hour test drive, features music by Meatloaf and will appear on network and cable TV. There will also be two 30-second radio spots and a print ad breaking in national newspapers in the top 75 markets, as well as an Internet presence. The ad copy says: "Drive it around the clock. Not just around the block," and encourages consumers to go to the Test Drive website to get more information and to find their nearest participating dealer.
Visit the site at http://gm.com/24hour

Berger Chevrolet cordially invites you to attend a very special occasion.....

They will simultaneously deliver 10 to 12 new "Super Cars" (ZL-1s) to their proud owners on Sunday, May 18th.

Quoting our friend, Dennis Barker:

"We will be delivering 10 to 12 of the coolest Camaros in history on this day and we would like everyone to share in the fun. Dale and Matt Berger will be turning the keys over to the proud owners of these very rare Camaros in which there were only 69 built. We will be making a very special day of this. Please feel free to bring family and friends and be a part of history in the making."

SUNDAY, MAY 18TH

1:00 PM

BERGER CHEVROLET
2525 28th Street Southeast
Grand Rapids, MI 49512
616-949-5200
Contact is Dennis Barker dbarkerss@hotmail.com

From a personal perspective.....I really wish I had the opportunity to see Fred Gibb Chevrolet back in the late 60s. I was fortunate enough to visit Yenko Chevy....but didn't bother to take any pictures. (who would have known???) This is quite an occasion and without question, is an event you really don't want to miss...........

I hope to see many of you there.

I could listen to John talk for days on end......because I always learn a ton of stuff.........and he knows our Camaros and Firebirds inside out............not to mention that he's an all around great guy.

Recently, he gave a talk about the power of the engines in Drag Racing...and I thought you might find the following facts interesting (and in some cases, somewhat startling.........)

One top fuel dragster 500 cu in engine makes more power than the first 8 rows of the Daytona 500..............

Under full throttle, a top fuel dragster engine consumes nitro at 1.5 gallons per second, the same rate as a fully loaded 747 but with 4 times the energy volume.

With 3000 cfm of air being crammed in, the fuel mixture is compressed into a nearly solid state.......................

Dual magnetos supply 44 amps to each spark plug................

At 1.7 air/fuel mixture, the flame front is 7050 degrees..................

Spark plug electrodes are totally consumed during a pass....after half the track, the engine is running like a diesel being fired by the cylinder pressure and red hot exhaust valves...............................

If spark momentarily fails early in the run, the fuel builds up and explodes with a force that can blow the heads off the block..............

To exceed 300 mph in 4.5 seconds, dragsters must accelerate at an average of 4 g's but in reaching 250mph well before half track, the launch is around 8 g's....................

Dragsters reach 300 mph before you have read this sentence.

Just thought you'd like to know........................and ponder........................

CHEVY HELPS SUPPORT OUR FRONTLINE TROOPS . . . Two lucky sailors onboard the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln will receive a Silverado or an S-10 Pickup as part of a Chevrolet promotion designed to keep morale high for our frontline troops. The servicemen and servicewomen on the aircraft carrier have been stationed in the Persian Gulf since June. Upon their return, representatives from Chevy will be on hand to present the trucks, as well a "behind-the-scenes" weekend at a NASCAR race. Members of VSSM will have the opportunity to sign banners that will be used to drape the trucks before their presentation. "This is just one small way that we are able to express our thanks and goodwill wishes to the U.S. troops that are participating in Operation Iraqi Freedom," said Tom Suman, promotion manager ? Chevy Trucks. The promotion is part of Chevrolet's ongoing support of the U.S. Navy. Earlier this year,
Chevy Trucks threw a Super Bowl party for about 25,000 servicemen and women on five aircraft carriers, including the USS Abraham Lincoln.

In reading this, however, I found it shocking about how the people calling our leaders "moron" have very little formal education......

Now...I'm not calling anyone a moron......but I find it very interesting to look at the background of some of our 'esteemed' entertainers.........

I made a remark last week to a group of enthusiasts that I will repeat here: "The good news is that in this country, we have freedom of speech.....the bad news is that you don't necessarily have to have any idea of what you're talking about in order to practice this free speech......"

----- Forwarded by SCOTT SETTLEMIRE/US/GM/GMC on 03/31/2003 12:41 PM -----

Subject: Good Reading

Who's Smarter?
by Cindy Osborne

The Hollywood group is at it again.  Holding anti-war rallies, screaming about the Bush Administration, running ads in major newspapers, defaming the President and his Cabinet every chance they get,  to anyone and everyone who will listen. They publicly defile them and call them names like "stupid" , "morons", and  "idiots".   Jessica Lange went so far as to tell a crowd in Spain that she hates President Bush and is embarrassed to be an American.

So, just how ignorant are these people who are running the country? Let's look at the biographies of these "stupid", "ignorant" , "moronic" leaders, and then at the celebrities who are castigating them:

President George W. Bush: Received a Bachelors Degree from Yale University and an MBA from Harvard Business School. He served as an F-102 pilot for the Texas Air National Guard. He began his career in the oil and gas business in Midland in 1975 and worked in the energy industry until 1986. He was elected Governor on November 8, 1994, with 53.5 percent of the vote. In a historic re-election victory, he became the first Texas Governor to be elected to consecutive four-year terms on November 3, 1998 winning 68.6 percent of the vote. In 1998 Governor Bush won 49 percent of the Hispanic vote, 27 percent of the African-American vote, 27 percent of Democrats and 65 percent of women. He won more Texas counties, 240 of 254, than any modern Republican other that Richard Nixon in 1972 and is the first Republican gubernatorial candidate to win the heavily Hispanic and Democratic border counties of El Paso, Cameron and Hidalgo. (Someone began circulating a false story about his IQ being lower than any other President.  If you believed it, you might want to go to URBANLEGENDS.COM and see the truth.)

Vice President Dick Cheney earned a BA in 1965 and a MA in 1966, both in political science. Two years later, he won an American Political Science Association congressional fellowship. One of Vice President Cheney's primary duties is to share with individuals, members of Congress and foreign leaders, President Bush's vision to strengthen our economy, secure our homeland and win the War on Terrorism. In his official role as President of the Senate, Vice President Cheney regularly goes to Capitol Hill to meet with Senators and members of the House of Representatives to work on the Administration's legislative goals. In his travels as Vice President, he has seen first hand the great demands the war on terrorism is placing on the men and women of our military, and he is proud of the tremendous job they are doing for the United States of America.

Secretary of State Colin Powell was educated in the New York City public schools, graduating from the City College of New York (CCNY), where he earned a Bachelor's Degree in geology. He also participated in ROTC at CCNY and received a commission as an Army second lieutenant upon graduation in June 1958. His further academic achievements include a Master of Business Administration Degree from George Washington University. Secretary Powell is the recipient of numerous U.S. and foreign military awards and decorations. Secretary Powell's civilian awards include two Presidential Medals of Freedom, the President's Citizens Medal, the Congressional Gold Medal, the Secretary of State Distinguished Service Medal, and the Secretary of Energy Distinguished Service Medal. Several schools and other institutions have been named in his honor and he holds honorary degrees from universities and colleges across the country.

Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld: attended Princeton University on Scholarship (AB, 1954) and served in the U.S. Navy (1954-57) as a Naval aviator ; Congressional Assistant to Rep. Robert Griffin (R-MI), 1957-59; U.S. Representative, Illinois, 1962-69; Assistant to the President, Director of the Office of Economic Opportunity, Director of the Cost of Living Council, 1969-74; U.S. Ambassador to NATO, 1973-74; head of Presidential Transition Team, 1974; Assistant to the President, Director of White House Office of Operations, White House Chief of Staff, 1974-77; Secretary of Defense, 1975-77

Secretary of Homeland Security Tom Ridge was raised in a working class family in veterans' public housing in Erie. Heearned a scholarship to Harvard, graduating with honors in 1967. After his first year at The Dickinson School of Law, he was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he served as an infantry staff sergeant in Vietnam, earning the Bronze Star for Valor.   After returning to Pennsylvania, he earned his Law Degree and was in private practice before becoming Assistant District Attorney in Erie County. He was elected to Congress in 1982. He was the first enlisted Vietnam combat veteran elected to the U.S. House, and was overwhelmingly reelected six times.

National Security Advisor

Condoleezza Rice earned her Bachelor's Degree in Political Science, Cum Laude and Phi Beta Kappa, from the University of Denver in 1974; her Master's from the University of Notre Dame in 1975; and her Ph.D. from the Graduate School of International Studies at the University of Denver in 1981.(Note:  Rice enrolled at the University of Denver at the age of 15, graduating at 19 with a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science [Cum Laude.) She earned a Master's Degree at the University of Notre Dame and a Doctorate from the University of Denver's Graduate School of International Studies. Both of her advanced degrees are also in Political Science.)

She is a Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and has been awarded Honorary Doctorates from Morehouse College in 1991, the University of Alabama in 1994, and the University of Notre Dame in 1995. At Stanford, she has been a member of the Center for International Security and Arms Control, a Senior Fellow of the Institute for International Studies, and a Fellow (by courtesy) of the Hoover Institution. Her books include Germany Unified and Europe Transformed (1995) with Philip Zelikow, The Gorbachev Era (1986) with Alexander Dallin, and Uncertain Allegiance: The Soviet Union and the Czechoslovak Army (1984). She also has written numerous articles on Soviet and East European foreign and defense policy, and has addressed audiences in settings ranging from the U.S. Ambassador's Residence in Moscow to the Commonwealth Club to the 1992 and 2000 Republican National Conventions. From 1989 through March 1991, the period of German reunification and the final days of the Soviet Union, she served in the Bush Administration as Director, and then Senior Director, of Soviet and East European Affairs in the National Security Council, and a Special Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs. In 1986, while an international affairs fellow of the Council on Foreign Relations, she served as Special Assistant to the Director of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. In 1997, she served on the Federal Advisory Committee on Gender -- Integrated Training in the Military. She was a member of the boards of directors for the Chevron Corporation, the Charles Schwab Corporation, the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, the University of Notre Dame, the International Advisory Council of J.P. Morgan and the San Francisco Symphony Board of Governors. She was a Founding Board member of the Center for a New Generation, an educational support fund for schools in East Palo Alto and East Menlo Park, California and was Vice President of the Boys and Girls Club of the Peninsula. In addition, her past board service has encompassed such organizations as Transamerica Corporation, Hewlett Packard, the Carnegie Corporation, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, The Rand Corporation, the National Council for Soviet and East European Studies, the Mid-Peninsula Urban Coalition and KQED, public broadcasting for San Francisco. Born November 14, 1954 in Birmingham, Alabama, she earned her bachelor's degree in political science, cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa, from the University of Denver in 1974; her Master's from the University of Notre Dame in 1975; and her Ph.D. from the Graduate School of International Studies at the University of Denver in 1981. She is a Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and has been awarded Honorary Doctorates from Morehouse College in 1991, the University of Alabama in 1994, and the University of Notre Dame in 1995. She resides in Washington, D.C.

So who are these celebrities? What is their education? What is their experience in affairs of State or in National Security?   While I will defend to the death their right to express their opinions, I think that if they are going to call into question the intelligence of our leaders, we should also have all the facts on their educations and background:

Barbra Streisand : Completed high school.
Career: Singing and acting

Cher: Dropped out of school in 9th grade.
Career: Singing and acting

Martin Sheen Flunked exam to enter University of Dayton.
Career: Acting

Jessica Lange Dropped out college mid-freshman year.
Career: Acting

Alec Baldwin Dropped out of George Washington U. after scandal.
Career: Acting

Julia Roberts Completed high school.
Career: Acting

Sean Penn Completed High school.
Career: Acting

Susan Sarandon Degree in Drama from Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C.
Career: Acting

Ed Asner Completed High school.
Career: Acting

George Clooney Dropped out of University of Kentucky.
Career: Acting

Michael Moore Dropped out first year University of Michigan.
Career: Movie Director

Sarah Jessica Parker:  Completed High School.
Career: Acting

Jennifer Anniston: Completed High School.
Career: Acting

Mike Farrell Completed High school.
Career: Acting

Janeane Garofelo Dropped out of College.
Career: Stand up comedienne

Larry Hagman Attended Bard College for one year.
Career: Acting

While comparing the education and experience of these two groups, we should also remember that President Bush and his cabinet are briefed daily, even hourly, on the War on Terror and threats to our security.  They are privy to information gathered around the world concerning the Middle East, the threats to America, the intentions of terrorists and terrorist-supporting governments. They are in constant communication with the CIA, the FBI, Interpol, NATO, The United Nations, our own military,  and that of our allies around the world.  We cannot simply believe that we have full knowledge of the threats because we watch CNN!!  We cannot believe that we are in any way as informed as our leaders.

These celebrities have no intelligence-gathering agents, no fact-finding groups, no insight into the minds of those who would destroy our country. They only have a deep seated hatred for all things Republican.   By nature, and no one knows quite why, the Hollywood elitists detest Conservative views and anything that supports or uplifts the United States of America.  The silence was deafening from the Left when Bill Clinton bombed a pharmaceutical factory outside of Khartoum, or when he attacked the Bosnian Serbs in 1995 and 1999.   He bombed Serbia itself to get Slobodan Milosevic out of Kosovo, and not a single peace rally was held.  When our Rangers were ambushed in omalia and 18 young American lives were lost, not a peep was heard from Hollywood.  Yet now, after our nation has been attacked on its own soil, after 3,000 Americans were killed by freedom-hating terrorists while going about their routine lives, they want to hold rallies against the war.   Why the change?  Because an honest, God-fearing Republican sits in the White House.

Another irony is that in 1987, when Ronald Reagan was in office,  the Hollywood group aligned themselves with disarmament groups like SANE, FREEZE and PEACE ACTION, urging our own government to disarm and freeze the manufacturing of any further nuclear weapons, in order to promote world peace.   It is curious that now, even after we have heard all the evidence that Saddam Hussein has chemical, biological and is very close to obtaining nuclear weapons, their is no cry from this group for HIM to disarm.   They believe we should leave him alone in his quest for these weapons of mass destruction, even though it is certain that these deadly weapons will eventually be used gainst us in our own cities.

So why the hype out of Hollywood?   Could these celebrities believe that since they draw such astronomical salaries, they are entitled to also determine the course of our Nation?  That they can make viable decisions concerning war and peace?   Did Michael Moore have the backing of the Nation when he recently  thanked France, on our behalf, for being a  "good enough friend to tell us we were wrong"?   I know for certain he was not speaking for me.    Does Sean Penn fancy himself a Diplomat, in going to Iraq when we are just weeks away from war?  Does he believe that his High School Diploma gives him the knowledge (and the right) to go to a country that is controlled by a maniacal dictator, and speak on behalf of the American people?  Or is it the fact that he pulls in more money per year than the average American worker will see in a lifetime?   Does his bank account give him clout?

The ultimate irony is that many of these celebrities have made a shambles of their own lives, with drug abuse, lcoholism, numerous marriages and divorces, scrapes with the law, publicized temper tantrums, etc.   How dare they pretend to know what is best for an entire nation!   What is even more bizarre is how many people in this country will listen and accept their views, simply because they liked them in a certain movie, or have fond memories of an old television sitcom!

It is time for us, as citizens of the United States, to educate ourselves about the world around us.  If future generations are going to enjoy the freedoms that our forefathers bequeathed us, if they are ever to know peace in their own country and their world, to live without fear of terrorism striking in their own cities, we must assure that this nation remains strong.  We must make certain that those who would destroy us are made aware of the severe consequences that will befall them.

Yes, it is a wonderful dream to sit down with dictators and terrorists and join hands, singing Cumbaya and talking of orld peace.  But it is not real.     We did not stop Adolf Hitler from taking over the entire continent of Europe by simply talking to him.  We sent our best and brightest, with the strength and determination that this Country is known for, and defeated the Nazi regime.  President  John F. Kennedy did not stop the Soviet ships from unloading their nuclear missiles in Cuba in 1962 with mere words. He stopped them with action, and threat of immediate war if the ships did not turn around.   We did not end the Cold War with conferences.   It ended with the strong belief of President Ronald Reagan...  PEACE through STRENGTH

John M Schmidt

TRYING TO HELP
By Dennis Miller

All the rhetoric on whether or not we should go to war against Iraq has got my insane little brain spinning like a roulette wheel. I enjoy reading opinions from both sides, but I have detected a hint of confusion from some of you.

As I was reading the paper recently, I was reminded of the best advice someone ever gave me. He told me about the KISS method ("Keep it Simple, Stupid"). So, with this as a theme, I'd like to apply this theory for those who don't quite get it. My hope is that we can simplify things a bit and recognize a few important facts.

Here are 10 things to consider when voicing an opinion on this important issue:

1) President Bush and Saddam Hussein.....Hussein is the bad guy.

2) If you have faith in the United Nations to do the right thing, keep this in mind. They have Libya heading the Committee on Human Rights and Iraq heading the Global Disarmament Committee. Do your own math here.

3) If you use Google Search and type in "French Military Victories," your reply will be "Did you mean French Military Defeats?"

4) If your only anti-war slogan is "No war for oil," sue your school district for allowing you to slip through the cracks and robbing you of the education you deserve.

5) Saddam and Bin Laden will not seek United Nations approval before they try to kill us.

6) Despite what some seem to believe, Martin Sheen is NOT the President. He just plays one on TV.

7) Even if you are anti-war, you are still an "Infidel" and Bin Laden wants you dead, too.

8) If you believe in a "vast right-wing conspiracy," but not in the danger that Hussein poses, quit hanging out with the Dell computer dude.

9) We are not trying to liberate them.

10) Whether you are for military action, or against it, our young men and women overseas are fighting for us to defend our right to speak out. We all need to support them without reservation.

I hope this helps.

I received the following from a very good friend........

There are many varying points of view on the war.....regardless of what your position is, I think we owe our very lives and livelihood to the American Soldier. (I don't agree with generalizations...but this certainly is food for thought....)

Pass it on....

The average age of the military man is 19 years.

He is a short haired, tight-muscled kid who, under normal circumstances is considered by society as half man, half boy. Not yet dry behind the ears, not old enough to buy a beer, but old enough to die for his country.

He never really cared much for work and he would rather wax his own car than wash his father's; but he has never collected unemployment either.

He's a recent High School graduate; he was probably an average student, pursued some form of sport activities, drives a ten year old jalopy, and has a steady girlfriend that either broke up with him when he left, or swears to be waiting when he returns from half a world away.

He listens to rock and roll or hip-hop or rap or jazz or swing and 155mm Howitzers.

He is 10 or 15 pounds lighter now than when he was at home because he is working or fighting from before dawn to well after dusk.

He has trouble spelling, thus letter writing is a pain for him, but he can field strip a rifle in 30 seconds and reassemble it in less time in the dark.

He can recite to you the nomenclature of a machine gun or grenade launcher and use either one effectively if he must.

He digs foxholes and latrines and can apply first aid like a professional.

He can march until he is told to stop or stop until he is told to march.

He obeys orders instantly and without hesitation, but he is not without spirit or individual dignity.

He is self-sufficient. He has two sets of fatigues: he washes one and wears the other. He keeps his canteens full and his feet dry.

He sometimes forgets to brush his teeth, but never to clean his rifle.

He can cook his own meals, mend his own clothes, and fix his own hurts. If you're thirsty, he'll share his water with you; if you are hungry, his food. .

He'll even split his ammunition with you in the midst of battle when you run low.

He has learned to use his hands like weapons and weapons like they were his hands. He can save your life - or take it, because that is his job.

He will often do twice the work of a civilian, draw half the pay and still find ironic humor in it all. He has seen more suffering and death then he should have in his short lifetime.

He has stood atop mountains of dead bodies, and helped to create them.

He has wept in public and in private, for friends who have fallen in combat and is unashamed.

He feels every note of the National Anthem vibrate through his body while at rigid attention, while tempering the burning desire to 'square-away' those around him who haven't bothered to stand, remove their hat, or even stop talking. In an odd twist, day in and day out, far from home, he defends their right to be disrespectful.

Just as did his Father, Grandfather, and Great-grandfather, he is paying the price for our freedom.

Beardless or not, he is not a boy.

He is the American Fighting Man that has kept this country free for over 200 years.

He has asked nothing in return, except our friendship and understanding.

Remember him, always, for he has earned our respect and admiration with his blood.

For our Military

Prayer wheel for our military...please don't break it Please send this on after a short prayer.

Prayer Wheel

"Lord, hold our troops in your loving hands. Protect them as they protect us.

Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they perform for us in our time of need. Amen."

Prayer Wheel: When you receive this, please stop for a moment and say a prayer for our ground troops in Afghanistan, sailors on ships, and airmen in the air, and now for those in Iraq. There is nothing attached.... "

This can be very powerful.... Just send this to all the people in your address book. Do not stop the wheel,please.... Of all the gifts you could give a US Soldier, Sailor, Marine or Airman, prayer is the very best one.

Good morning, Camaro and Firebird Friends......two notes of interest....

>Chevy SSR will pace the Indy 500

>Pontiac will be hitting Broadway in New York City in a big way at the
>New

York Autoshow.........

CHEVY'S SSR READY TO SET THE PACE 2003 INDY 500

Heritage-Inspired Super Sport Roadster Is Prelude to Production Model

Indianapolis -- Representatives from Chevrolet and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway announced today that the all-new 2003 Chevy SSR will serve as the Official Pace Vehicle for the 87th running of the Indianapolis 500 on May 25.

"As we continue to build upon Chevrolet's strong performance heritage, we couldn't imagine a more appropriate venue for us to showcase our new SSR as we near the start of regular production," said Janet Eckhoff, marketing director for SSR and Chevy's mid-size trucks. "This will certainly be another great milestone for the Chevrolet and Indianapolis Motor Speedway record books."

This marks the 14th time a Chevrolet product has served as the official pace vehicle ? the most appearances by any brand since the first use of a pacemaker in 1911 ? and the first time a truck-based Chevrolet will lead the charge to the green flag.

Chevrolet and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway have often been linked together as powerful symbols that stir the magination of automotive enthusiasts around the world. "We're pleased that the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Chevrolet are continuing this long-time relationship," said Tony George, president and CEO of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. "Having the new Chevy SSR leading the field to the green flag on May 25 will certainly contribute to a memorable Indianapolis 500."

This year's edition of the Memorial Day classic will find Chevrolet out to repeat its recent on-track winning erformance. The "Bowtie" returned to open-wheel competition in 2002, capturing 14 of 15 IRL events, including the Indy 500, and the series championship. In all, Chevy has won 100 Indy-style races, including seven Indianapolis 500 victories, and six series titles since 1986.

"Everyone at Chevrolet is proud to be associated with the Indy Racing Series and the Indy 500," said Brent Dewar, the recently-appointed general manager of General Motors' largest division. "The SSR is the latest in a series of SS-branded Chevy cars and trucks that will rekindle the fun-to-drive heritage of the Super Sport name. In keeping with our long-term goals, they will be vehicles many people will aspire to own and also be able to afford."

The Chevy SSR that will serve as the Indy 500 Pace Vehicle is virtually identical to the 25 unique 'Signature Series' saleable units to be built before regular retail production and shipment to Chevrolet dealers begins this summer. The Signature Series vehicles will be used to create one-of-a-kind "pedigrees" for each vehicle before they are offered for sale through public or GM dealer auctions during 2003.

"The SSR (standing for 'Super Sport Roadster') is like nothing else in the market today. It's part roadster, part pickup and is a completely innovative expression of Chevy's proud heritage," said Eckhoff. A highlight of SSR's design is a unique one-button power-operated retractable hardtop that stores vertically and out-of-sight between the passenger and rear stowage compartments. The frame and chassis of the SSR are similar in design to Chevy's mid-size TrailBlazer family of sport utilities. All major exterior panels are of one-piece stamped steel. Under the hood is a new aluminum-block version of GM's Vortec 5300 (5.3-liter) small-block V8 that develops 290 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 325 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. That power drives the rear wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission. Rounding out SSR's sporty street machine appearance are 19-inch front and 20-inch rear tires and wheels.

Two SSRs have been prepared for pace duties:

· The primary pace vehicle emulates the appearance and content of a Signature Series model. When the checkered flag falls, it will be placed on display in the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame Museum.

· The back-up pace vehicle is VIN #4 of the saleable Signature Series model run, carrying the signatures of John Middlebrook, GM Vice President for Vehicle Sales & Marketing, and Mark Reuss, Executive Director of Operations for GM Engineering & Special Vehicles. After the race it will continue to be used in various pedigree-building activities then, like nearly all other Signature Series units, will ultimately be offered for sale through auction.

A third SSR that emulates the appearance and content of a Signature Series model will be on display during the month of May for up-close viewing by visitors to Indy's Hall of Fame Museum. After the May race it will be a welcome addition to GM's historic collection in Detroit.

Few modifications were made to the three vehicles to prepare them for pacing the 33-car field on the 2.5-mile oval. Exteriors receive a subtle silver ghost-flame paint scheme across the hood, front fenders and doors, a safety strobe light bar recessed into the tailgate, polished stock cast aluminum wheels and race event graphics. Inside, racing-type safety belts have been added. Inclusion of heavy-duty engine and transmission oil coolers, higher rate springs and shocks, and a lower restriction exhaust system provide further assurance of optimum performance in the harsh environment of professional racing.

The history of Chevrolet vehicles that have paced the Indianapolis 500, and their drivers:

2002 Corvette 50th Anniversary (Jim Caviezel)
1999 Monte Carlo SS (Jay Leno)
1998 Corvette (Parnelli Jones)
1995 Corvette (Jim Perkins)
1993 Camaro Z28 (Jim Perkins)
1990 Beretta (Jim Perkins)
1986 Corvette (Gen. Chuck Yeager)
1982 Camaro Z28 (Jim Rathmann)
1978 Corvette (Jim Rathmann)
1969 Camaro SS (Jim Rathmann)
1967 Camaro SS (Mauri Rose)
1955 Bel Air (T.H. Keating)
1948 Fleetmaster (Wilbur Shaw)

BIG NEWS FOR PONTIAC . . . On April 1, just in time for the New York International Auto Show, Pontiac will launch an eye-catching video billboard advertisement initiative in New York City. Streaming video and print ads for both the new 2004 Grand Prix and GTO will be featured, and it's not likely anyone will miss seeing them. The billboard spans the entire block of Broadway between 51st and 52nd streets and is 25.6 feet high and 202 feet wide. It will be visible to the nearly 1.5 million people who pass by each day, as well as the 13 million individuals expected to attend the auto show. As the only projected-image billboard in the Times Square area, this placement will offer "an opportunity to see Pontiac vehicles in action like never before," according to Pontiac's advertising director, Mark-Hans Richer.

Some "Corvette Stuff" that you may be interested in............

As many of you probably know, the Corvette 50th anniversary celebration will be capped off with one HUGE party in Nashville on June 27th and 28th. For more info. on this event of a lifetime, log onto www.corvette50th.com.

What's your favorite Corvette from the past fifty years?
Is it the 1953 Corvette that started it all, or the high performance C5s? Maybe it's a Corvette Sting Ray, or the 1956 Roadster. Since 1953, Corvette enthusiasts have debated the question endlessly. Now, it's up for a vote. Which is the most popular Corvette model year? The Corvette model year with the most votes will be featured on the new Corvette MasterCard design to be unveiled at the 50th Anniversary Celebration in Nashville, June 2003. Complete the information and vote at www.CorvetteMasterCard.com "Vote For Your Vette" promotion for the chance to win a 2003 50th Anniversary Corvette and a trip for two to the 50th Anniversary Celebration in Nashville, Tennessee in June 2003. Register today as this promotion ends on 4/30/03.

GET 10% OFF WITH YOUR CORVETTE MASTERCARD, AND WEAR YOUR PASSION ON YOUR SLEEVE The Corvette MasterCard offers a 10% discount on Corvette and Corvette 50th Anniversary merchandise available at www.corvette50thstore.com. The card has no annual fee and a low introductory interest rate. The card offers a personalization feature, with up to 26 characters for your Corvette club name or license plate id. Apply for your Corvette MasterCard today by logging onto www.corvettemastercard.com.

SLP has just announced some new Camaro SS, Camaro 35th, and Firehawk stuff........

Folding Lawn Chairs
Folding Lawn Chairs with attaching umbrella (just in time for show season.......)
Beach Towels
Jackets
Shirts
Caps
Tumbers

You can see and get more information on these products at
http://www.slpeng.com/wearables/index.shtml

Scott

GM has just announced an additional $1,000 'Loyalty Cash' on the purchase or lease of any new 2002 or 2003 GM car or truck. If you own or lease any GM car or truck (proof of registration or title is all that is needed) you are eligible for the extra $1,000.

A list of current incentives is located at:

http://www.gm.com/automotive/vehicle_shopping/overdrive/retail/index.html

Here's a press release with an overview:

GM REWARDS LOYAL OWNERS WITH $3,000 TOTAL CASH . . . GM has announced its latest retail marketing program, which makes $3,000 total cash available to current GM owners. Here's how it works: GM will reward its owners with $1,000 loyalty cash toward the purchase or lease of any '02 or '03 model vehicle (excluding HUMMER) through March 31, as well as offer customer cash rebates of $2,000 on most Buick, Chevrolet, GMC, Oldsmobile and Pontiac 2003 models. As an alternative to the $2,000 consumer cash on '03 models, GM is offering 0.0 percent APR finance rates for qualified buyers on most '03 passenger car and truck models. Keep in mind that the $1,000 loyalty offer can also be combined with GM's current lease pull-ahead program, as well as with the GM Card Program. The lease pull-ahead program runs through March 31 for customers whose leases expire between April 1 and Aug. 31.

"This is an absolutely great time to purchase a GM vehicle," said John Smith, group vice president of VSSM. "Our truck lineup is the best in the
industry and we are bringing out more new cars than at anytime in our history. Our new marketing program rewards our loyal GM customers, and
provides flexibility and affordability for any consumer shopping for a new GM vehicle."

NEW AD . . . GM has the highest industry loyalty ratings from R.L. Polk for three years running, and a new GM ad announcing GM's $1,000 loyalty cash offer thanks customers for that loyalty. "For making us the leading manufacturer in owner loyalty for the third straight year, GM thanks you a
thousand times," the ad copy reads. National print advertising for the new program kicked off March 1, with ads running in top markets around the
country.

I will be coming to your cities for the Auto Shows next week......

If you would like to get together and talk about all things Camaro/Firebird, here's my schedule:

Wednesday, March 12 -- meet at the Marriott Atlanta Airport -- 4711 Best Road in College Park.....9:00 pm (Nine) in the main lobby where we will
retire to the lobby bar/lounge.

Thursday, March 13 -- meet at the Marriott - Richmond -- 500 East Broad Street in Richmond... 8:00pm (Eight) in the main lobby -- again, retire
to the lobby bar/lounge.

Hope to see you there,
Scott

More Camaro 'stuff' including a diecast "Camaro Legends Tour" Truck and Trailer -- 1:64th scale model..........(hey....you can never start your Christmas shopping too soon!)

Camaro merchandise from MIC

1. 1994 Camaro Z-28 Coupe in Teal (1:25 plastic promo) Item # 400 400 358 $8.00 ea + shipping
2. 1995 Camaro Z-28 Convertible in Green (1:25 plastic promo) Item # 400 000 412 $8.00 ea + shipping
3. 1995 Camaro Convertible in Black (1:25 plastic promo) Item # 400 000 413 $8.00 ea + shipping
4. 1995 Camaro Coupe in Mystic Teal Metallic (1:25 plastic promo) Item # 400 000 414 $8.00 ea + shipping
5. 1994 Camaro Coupe in Medium Blue (1:25 plastic promo) Item # 400 400 357 $8.00 ea + shipping
6. 1993 Camaro in Red (1:25 plastic promo) Item # 400 400 371 $8.00 ea + shipping
7. Camaro 30th Anniversary Poster (24" x 36") Item # 211112411S $7.50 ea + shipping
8. 1969 COPO Camaro in White (1:18 die cast from Ertl VERY LIMITED) Please call for availability!
9. 1969 Camaro "Old Reliable" driven by Dave Strickler - #2 Car in the Chevrolet Legends Racing Series from MIC. Limited to just 2004 cars, each will be numbered on the chassis and will come in a special window box. This item will be released in April 2003. Taking Pre-orders NOW! These will sellout FAST! Item # 401 007 605 $64.95 ea + shipping
10. Camaro Legends Truck and Trailer (1:64 scale die cast) Item # 401 112 602L $29.95 + shipping
11. 2002 Camaro SS in Red with 35th Anniversary Graphics (1:18 scale die cast) Item # 401 007 609 $ 26.95 ea + shipping (Limited amount of these are available. Please call for Availability)

MIC website is www.mic-store.com - Our Chevrolet Customer Service Toll-Free Number is 1-800-647-2702 Orders can also be faxed** to 1-248-362-1535 attn Customer Service Dept

**Please be sure to include Full Name, Address, Phone Number (daytime) and Credit Card number with exp date. UPS shipping charges will be added to each order.

Got the attached from our friend Ken Fengler at the Justin Bell GT Motorsports Experience in West Palm Beach, Florida........one of the official Chevrolet Driving Schools that have featured the Camaro SS, the Corvette Z51 Coupe and the Z06.

The Camaro SS did us proud at both Justin Bell and Bragg-Smith.........and as much as it hurts to see a beloved car disappear from the market, I believe there is a bright future --not in the next year or so.....but in the future. ( 'nuff said about that....)

Those of you who know me well know that nothing seemed to make me happier than to take a Camaro SS around the track at Bragg-Smith -- at ridiculous (to some) speeds with the tail hanging out. It really made a point of how well our Camaro Guys and Gals put the 'right stuff' into the Camaro to make it one of the best handling automobiles ever.

People like Jim Perkins, Harry Turner, John Heinricy, Ted Robertson, Mel Richards, Norm Fugate, John Cafaro, Jerry Palmer, Jim Westby, Bill Vantiem, Art Spong, Cheryl Pilcher, Stacy Tucker, and manymanymany more within GM (and I know I've probably left some very important people out...but hey, the hour is late)--- and of course, we can't forget our friends at SLP Engineering such as Ed Hamburger and Jeff Yachnin and their great group of men and women.................

The REAL test was to see how well the Camaro would perform against the Corvette. We knew it would be good....we just perhaps did not realize HOW good......

On many occasions, I had the opportunity to watch owners of some very high priced 'imports' shake their heads in disbelief as they found the Camaro SS a real contender in terms of overall performance to cars costing 3 times as much. The tracks proved that point very clearly.

It made us proud to see just how durable the Camaros would be -- day in and day out-- on the tracks as thousands of students learned the 'art' of performance driving. I also think you'd be surprised to know how inexpensive it was to maintain the fleets of Camaros from day one......another testament to how inherently good these cars are..............

Ah well...................enough from me................on to Mr. Fengler's note:

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2003
MIAMI HOMESTEAD SPEEDWAY DAY 3 THE JUSTIN BELL GT RACING SCHOOL

WHAT COULD BE BETTER, CRYSTAL CLEAR BLUE SKIES, 76 DEGREES IN MID FEBRUARY, I STAND IN PIT LANE OF THIS SPARKLING 55 MILLION DOLLAR RACING FACILITY STEWARDING A GROUP OF 20 STUDENTS LAPPING THE 2.25 MILE ROAD COURSE IN CAMAROS AND ZO6 CORVETTES.

THIS FINAL LAPPING SESSION HAS STUDENTS GRINNING WITH ACCOMPLISHMENT, SATISFACTION AND EXCITMENT. A CAMARO COMES DOWN PIT LANE, THE DRIVER GETS OUT GRINNING. AS HE PULLS OFF THE HELMET HE EXCLAIMS TO ME, "THAT CORVETTE GROUP DOES NOT RUN AWAY FROM THE CAMAROS TODAY KEN, NOT LIKE DAY ONE!"

YUP, THATS THE WAY IT ALWAYS GOES.

AFTER SOME TRAINING, PRACTICE, AND INTENSE COACHING THEY START TO UNDERSTAND HOW TO WORK WITHIN THE LIMITS OF THE CAR BUT YET GET THE MOST OF WHAT CAR HAS TO OFFER. BUT AS I WATCH THE CARS ACCELERATE OUT OF TURN 14 UP ON TO THE BANKING OF NASCAR 4, IT IS SAD TO THINK THAT IT IS ALMOST 2 YEARS TO THE DAY THAT A SHINY NEW FLEET OF CAMAROS AND CORVETTES SHOWED UP FOR OUR NEW CHEVROLET SPONSORED PRORAM.

THE INSTRUCTORS, STAFF AND STUDENTS WERE EXCITED ABOUT THE NEW CARS. WE ALL KNEW WHAT THE CORVETTES WOULD BE LIKE ON THE THE TRACK, BUT WE ALL WONDERED IF THE CAMAROS WOULD BE UP TO THE TASK.

OUR PROGRAM PUTS OVER 500 TRACK MILES ON EACH CAR OVER A THREE DAY PERIOD WITH A VARIETY OF DRIVING TALENT BEHIND THE WHEEL. BUT FROM THAT FIRST DAY IN JANUARY 2001 TO OUR LAST DAY FEBRUARY 13, 2003, THE CAMAROS HAVE NEVER DISAPPOINTED OR LET US DOWN.

OUR STAFF ENJOYED THE OPPORTUNITY TO TEACH THE FINER POINTS OF PERFORMANCE DRIVING IN THEM.

OUR CUSTOMERS APPRECIATED THE OPPORTUNITY TO DRIVE "AN OLD FASHION KICK IN THE PANTS--I HAVE TO DRIVE IT--NO EXCUSES--DRIVE AROUND THE RACE TRACK CAR!" THEY MAY NOT HAVE BEEN THE KING/QUEEN OF THE PROM, BUT THEY LOOKED GOOD AND WERE A HELL OF A LOT OF FUN!

SO OVER THE NEXT WEEK WE WILL SAY GOODBYE TO AN OLD FRIEND, REPLACED BY A SHINY NEW FLEET OF CORVETTE Z06'S AND COUPES.

----NOT SUCH A BAD DEAL---

BUT WE WILL ALL MISS THAT SS NAME BADGE ON PIT LANE. AND WE CAN ONLY DREAM OF WHAT COULD HAVE BEEN IF THE SPOTLIGHT OF THE CAR MAGAZINES AND AUTOSHOWS WERE SHINING ON THE NEXT GENERATION OF TWO OF THE
STRONGEST BRAND IDENTITIES IN THE ENTHUSIASTS MARKET -- MUSTANG AND CAMARO AND IN SOME WAYS IT WOULD HAVE FELT LIKE 1967 ALL OVER AGAIN.

KEN FENGLER, EVENT MANAGER, JUSTIN BELL MOTORSPORTS

You can get more information on the Justin Bell GT Motorsports Experience by logging onto www.justinbell.com

We have some new Camaro/Firebird "stuff" on chevymall.com and pontiacmall.com and more coming by February 20th.

Some highlights:

ADDITIONALLY: SLP will be offering something we all can use during the show season; folding lawn chairs with either Camaro SS or the 35th Anniversary Logo -- and an optional attaching umbrella. These should be on slpeng.com very shortly.

Good afternoon, all,

I've gotten quite a few emails in the past two weeks asking about availability of 2002 Camaro and Firebird. (yes, there are still quite a few LS1 equipped Camaros and Firebirds out there.)

The numbers are low, but I figured I'd send the counts to you and you can forward the info. to your respective clubs and friends if you feel it is appropriate.

You can access dealer inventory thru gmbuypower.com.

This represents new cars in Dealer Inventory (including demonstrators) as of 1/21/03

Firebird Coupe 200
Firebird Conv. 55

Formula Coupe 13

Trans Am Cpe 423
Trans Am Conv. 288

Total Firebird 979

(Unfortunately I do not have a breakdown for WS6 or Firehawk.)

Camaro Coupe 250
Camaro Convert. 90

Z28 Coupe 235
Z28 Convert 285

SS Coupe 86
SS Convert 98

Total Camaro 1,044

Good morning all, As many of you know, when I travel to various Major Auto Shows within the U.S. I try to set some time aside to meet with my fellow Camaro/Firebird Enthusiasts.

I'm going to be in several cities in the next three months....and if you are going to be at any of these shows, I'd love to get together with you as a group to visit and talk about all things Camaro/Firebird.

Houston, TX -- Sunday Evening, January 26th - 9:00pm at the Marriott - Intercontinental Airport - 18700 Kennedy Blvd.
probably inside the front lobby....we'll go to the bar/lounge in the Marriott...whereever it may be........

St. Louis, MO -- Tuesday Evening, 28th of January 9:00 at the Marriott St. Louis Airport (314-423-9700) --again, meet in front lobby and retire to the bar/lounge.

Chicago, IL -- Saturday Evening, February 15th -- at the Marriott Downtown 540 N. Michigan Ave. 9:00pm -- again, in the lobby and retire to the bar/lounge........(note: this assumes that my flight from Phoenix does not get cancelled or delayed big time.)

Additionally, I will be travelling to the following cities and put updates on time/place at the following websites:

chirpthird.com (click on SSOA back porch)
slpeng.com

Cleveland, Ohio tentative date is Sat, March 1
Kansas City tentative date is Wed. March 5
Atlanta tentative date is March 11
Richmond, Virginia tentative date is March 13
Minneapolis tentative date is March 15
Ft. Lauderdale tentative date is March 21
Denver tentative date is March 18th.......(this trip may be cancelled at the last minute.....)
Dallas tentative date is March 25th
New York (Manhattan) will advise.........

Scott

Good afternoon all, got a few emails this morning wanting to know more about the Chevy Display at the North American International Autoshow in Detroit this week.

Chevrolet has three new vehicles on display:

2004 Malibu
2004 Colorado (two vehicles shown)
2005 Equinox

We will also feature the SS Concept and the Cheyenne in the GM Concept Studio directly behind the Chevrolet Exhibit.

Chevrolet has two 'salons' -- one is the SS Salon that features a 1/8th scale model of the SS concept, three historic Chevy V8s (327, 409, 396) some great videos of SSs past, present and future -- and other SS stuff.

The second salon is the "Z71 Salon" which features parts and suspension systems from the Z71 package which will be offered over a wider variety of trucks. (also has videos and other stuff.)

(note: Chevrolet has a strategy for both SS and Z71 as we go forward....and in terms of SS, it has to mean something....no longer just decals, nameplates, and stripes.)

Naturally, the 50th Anniversary Corvette and SSR Signature Series are displayed as well as the rest of the 2003 Chevrolet Lineup.

And at the back of the Chevy Display is the Chevy Motorsports display featuring a NASCAR Monte Carlo, an IRL car, and the C5R Corvette, along with small video screens and such.

The GM Experience Mezzanine (stairs go up from either side of the Chevrolet display) offers visitors a lot of stuff.......from the new GM HyWire -- and an NHRA Cavalier -- to a restored 1970 Chevelle SS with modern-day GM Performance Parts Driveline. There is a substantial number of current GM engine displays...and a test Dyno where an LS6 gets put through its paces (talk about loud.) Also a chassis dynamics "shake test" that shakes a Silverado (quite a torture test) --Also the "GM Proving Ground Theatre" which takes you on a 5 minute run through various testing -- in a very unique audio/visual way. -- some Historic engines and components...and more....

If you're coming to Detroit between January 11 and 20...make sure to stop by COBO Hall --

Concerning the Brickyard 400 Camaro SS convertibles.....

Because this was the last year of the 4th Gen Camaro, I felt it was important to do a special Camaro for the 2002 Brickyard 400.... (as you will recall, the 35th Anniversary Camaro was used at the 2001 Brickyard 400...and we did not want to do a 'repeat')

Thus, we looked at doing a limited number of "special" Camaro SS convertibles. The original intent was to offer the two-tone Ebony/Pewter Leather interior from the Anniversary car...however, it would not have been appropriate to put the 35th Anniversary Badge on the seats....and to do a two-tone seat without the badging would have required new part numbers...which was a 'no-no' with engineering, the assembly plant, and GMSPO..............thus, we took the 35th Anniversary wheel....the 17" painted/machine finish aluminum wheel -- and assigned that content to a new RPO code, "Z7D" which was then given the name "Brickyard 400 Package."

We built 57 of these cars........all but 5 of them had Automatic transmissions........the other 5 of course had 6-speeds....and all the six-speeds delivered to VIPs......

We have never done a special RPO code prior to this for the Brickyard 400 ...thus, the cars are somewhat unique...and because we have made the VINS available to WorldWide Camaro and Chevy Historic Services, it will be hard to do a 'knockoff' -- the code shows up on the window label and also in the build manifest sticker on the driver's door......

The cars had the Brickyard 400 decals installed at Indianapolis (ARELCO -- which is the owner of National Car Sales and National Car Rental at Indianapolis is the company that sees that the decals are installed and that the cars are cleaned and staged throughout the Brickyard 400
activities.)

I hope this information is helpful -- and I think they are dynamite looking cars, if I must say so myself!!!!!

Trivia: all but one of the 57 cars were built the same week...the first car was actually built in April as a "pilot" and was immediately striped and put on the Camaro Legends Tour...we unveilled it at the Fbody Gathering over Memorial Day Weekend in Atlanta...and Scott Blewitt....project manager for the Camaro Legends Tour bought the car....it is car #1 and has a 6-speed.

Good afternoon, Friends,

As we approach the end of yet another year, I want to offer, on behalf of all of us at Chevy and Pontiac our best wishes to you and yours for a safe, happy and healthy Holiday season.

Reflecting on 2002 raises a number of emotions for me. I believe the F-car enthusiast community has never been healthier. Looking back over the 2002 show season, it is obvious that the clubs and websites are growing -- some at an astonishing rate. SLP Owner Appreciation Days continue to draw record crowds. World Wide Camaro continues to grow at a steady pace. The American Camaro Association once again drew record numbers at Carlisle. The various F-car websites show a marked increase in members -- and posts. Regional shows such as the Fbody Gatherings at Atlanta and Bowling Green showed a huge increase in attendance. It was a great year for Camaro and Firebird shows.

Our nations continued the healing process after the unthinkable happened on September 11, 2001. Many of us lost loved ones -- but we were also blessed to make new friendships. And while the world may seem to some as a more dangerous place, those of us fortunate enough to live in the United States and Canada are able to enjoy unequalled freedom and liberty.

Of course, many of you mourned -- as did I -- on August 27th when the last 4th Gen Camaro and Firebird rolled off the assembly line at Ste. Therese.
Many of us viewed this as losing a 'best friend.' I know I did.....a sad time. But I assure you that the men and women at Ste. Therese and those at SLP built the fastest, most powerful, most fuel efficient, highest quality, cleanest emissions Camaros and Firebirds ever. And they are truly missed.

While I cannot tell you the future of these great brands -- because I am prohibited from doing so, let me assure you once again that performance at GM is not dead. For those of you attending the North American International Auto Show in Detroit this coming January: You will get a glimpse of the future. We will show even more vehicles at the Chicago Auto Show in February.

Enough about GM........

I want to thank each and every one of you for all your support of the Camaro and Firebird over the past year. It was great to get together with old friends......and to make new ones I've said it many times before and I will continue to say it: "We are so very blessed to have such great enthusiasts in the F-car Community." In fact, the F-car community may be one of the things that sets Camaro and Firebird apart from other cars.

As we celebrate this Holiday Season -- and as we ring out 2002 and bring in 2003, please -- I'm begging you.

Don't Drink and Drive.......It just isn't worth it.

Buckle Up.......and that goes for every passenger in your car or truck.

Enjoy your friends and family. Now is a good time to tell them that you love them -- and what they mean to you.

And here's to a healthy and prosperous 2003.

Your friend,

Scott
(aka Fbodfather, aka Red Planet)

For those of you that may be in Detroit between now and January 20, (and those coming to the North American International Autoshow at Cobo Hall in Detroit) be sure and stop by "GM World" in the lower level at General Motors Global Headquarters at the Renaissance Center (hours are 10:00 am thru 5:00pm Monday thru Friday) to see 23 various GM Motorsports Vehicles -- from NHRA Drag cars and NASCAR Montes and Grand Prix to IRL and the C5R Corvette. Also on display are various historic Pace Cars.

F-cars featured are a 1967 Indy 500 Camaro, the 1993 Indy 500 Camaro Pace Car, an IMSA Camaro, and the 1989 Indy 500 Firebird Pace car.

Attached is the first issue of Camaro/Firebird Events that the various clubs have sent me. It is in excel spreadsheet format. If I am missing YOUR club event, please send me the information in excel spreadsheet format filling in all the columns (so that I can cut and paste to the master sheet) and I will be publishing this list monthly.

Have a great Holiday!

Scott
(See attached file)

In a week, most of us will be gathering with friends and family to give Thanks for all we enjoy in this life. The Thanksgiving Holiday is the heaviest travelled time of the year in terms of motor vehicle traffic.

Many have heard my plea before, but I believe it bears repeating:

On behalf of all of all the men and women at General Motors......please......I beg you:

• Buckle up when you get in your cars and trucks......and that goes for EVERY passenger as well. We put seatbelts in all of our vehicles for a good reason -- they can save your life and those who are riding with you.
• Don't drink and drive.....if you're going to be drinking, then please designate a driver before you leave for the party. If you'll be by yourself, please call a cab.
• If you're going to be driving any distance, please stop every once in a while to stretch and refresh yourself. Get a cup of coffee or a soda............The latest studies show that most accidents occur because the driver is fatigued and/or sleep deprived.
• Cell phones are great.....but pull off the road into a parking lot if you need to make a call. (I love those bumper stickers that say 'Hang up and Drive!')

While it may seem trite, I'm sincere when I say: ' we want you around for many more years..............'

Please enjoy your holiday!

Scott