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, pr