1st Quarter 2008 a quarterly Publication of the Texas Vehicle Club Council
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1st Quarter 2008 A Quarterly Publication of the Texas Vehicle Club Council Website: http://clubs.hemmings.com/TVCC/ We encourage your Newsletter Editor to reprint articles from the TVCC News in your local club's newsletter. Please contact SunShine Jackson for an MS Word file to assist in that situation. Please give TVCC authorship credit. 
Membership is DUE!! C Membership is DUE!! Membership is DUE!! Membership is DUE!! OMMENTS FROM THE GENERAL CHAIRPERSON I hope everybody has made it through the first part of the Year 2008 reasonably well! Plus that you are making plans to enjoy and participate in the many automotive-related events in the coming year. The indoor shows and the first swap meets of the year have already begun, so making plans for the (fast-approaching) warmer months can be important. At the First Quarter 2008 TVCC Board Meeting, we discussed many things and acted on some items which will allow the TVCC to progress into the future. The final item regarding the new TVCC Associate Membership (the recognition plaque for this membership situation) was considered, discussed and voted on. Thanks to the investigations (with samples from several awards vendors) by our Newsletter Editor and Webmistress, SunShine Jackson, we now have a great-looking plaque. Her efforts in this area are greatly appreciated! As the final action of the TVCC Board (Year 2007), nominations for the TVCC Board (Year 2008) were presented and voted upon. All existing TVCC Board Members were elected and will serve in their prior capacities (from Year 2007). We appreciate their service and look forward to another productive year for the Texas Vehicle Club Council! One of the stated purposes of the TVCC is to be a “legislative watchdog.” The TVCC’s heritage is just that, plus other things. Another purpose of the TVCC was to allow a way for car clubs “to talk to each other.” To do this, the TVCC organized a few car shows to get everybody together “and talk.” At that time, there were much fewer car show/cruise events than there are in more current times. As a participant in the first such event (held at the Texas campus of Northwood Institute), I can say that that particular show brought one of the widest ranges of diverse vehicles that I had ever seen (after having attended weekend cruise events for several years at that time). In those earlier times, few car clubs tended to intermingle with each other . . . yet many shared common bonds and interests in the vehicle hobby. Some had no knowledge that others of their vehicular orientation even existed, by observation. With the expansive (even “explosive”) growth of the populace in many areas of Texas, the number of car clubs and related car events has greatly mushroomed from what it was even 20 years ago, much less 30 years ago. It used to be easy to pick which event to attend or participate in, but it’s certainly NOT that way now! For this and other reasons, the TVCC has evolved away from sponsoring/organizing vehicle events. This leaves the focus of “legislative issues” as a more central focus of the TVCC. Although the Texas Legislature is in session only a few months bi-annually, that does not mean the TVCC curls up and hibernates in the interim. Quite the contrary! Although the Legislature might not be in session, there are still many items to be monitored, observed, considered, and projected to be emerging issues “over the horizon.” Some of these things are at the state level and others are at the federal/national level of things. Watching the progression of certain legislative subjects in other states (whether as proposed legislation or “tabled” or “passed” legislation) can help us be ready for what might be headed this direction. Much of what has been considered and passed here in Texas has tended to be very positive in vehicular areas. We have an “accelerated vehicle retirement” program that is without many of the loopholes of other states’ similar legislation. If a vehicle can be considered for this program, it must first fail the emissions test, but then must pass a “qualification process” (including driving to the facility under its own power and then successfully passing a road test administered by the facility itself, plus meeting other criteria). A recent revision allows these vehicles to be repaired and resold rather than be arbitrarily “recycled,” which I feel is very positive and can keep many nice “estate cars” from meeting an untimely demise. Many of the changes in our automotive landscape are the evolving result of earlier environmental legislation at the national level. One of the first things was unleaded fuel to allow catalytic converters (and other emissions hardware) to operate efficiently for an extended period of time. Then came Reformulated Fuels, replacement of refrigerants for vehicle air conditioning systems (R-12 being replaced by R-134a), and now reformulated motor oils to enhance the longevity of newer emissions systems’ hardware. Each ONE of these changes, as the result of earlier legislation (and later revisions) tended to cause much concern in the vehicle hobby . . . but each one’s significance has tended to fade as private industry and other evolving knowledge has shown us how to better deal with these things. In many cases, just as in politics, getting the “hype” away from “fact” is important to do before any real determination of how to best deal with these things can begin. In the case of unleaded fuels, Amoco had High Octane (by the “Research” method) unleaded gasoline in the times before unleaded fuel was required (with no negative press about engine problems, which might indicate that other valve-seat anti-wear agents were in the fuel additive package, other than the more common TetraEthyl Lead item). Certain engines were less critical than others in their tolerance of later unleaded fuels, by observation – whether by design or the combination of design and internal components. In other cases, fuel additive manufacturers came up with “lead-replacement” additives . . . as the need for such developed. Or, the cylinder heads could be rebuilt with “hard seats.” Many options! Some were easy to deal with and others required a higher degree of execution (as in the case of adding “hard seats” to existing cylinder heads, as many truck engines already had in them) or a modest additional cost. In the case of automotive air-conditioning refrigerants, there was much concern (initially) about the use of a refrigerant that was not quite as efficient as R-12 in its “cooling” or “heat exchanging” capabilities. Initially, there were three refrigerant oils (depending upon where the vehicle was manufactured and by whom), but I knew that eventually there would be a more common “one size fits all” refrigerant oil . . . which has basically happened now. My further research on auto air conditioning “retro-fit” activities to use R-134a (rather than the R-12 the systems were designed for) is also very simple and easy to do. A simple adjustment of the evaporator pressure regulation mechanism (on systems where the compressor runs continually, plus some which cycle the compressor) is all that’s required to get the desired output “vent temperature.” An adjustment of an allegedly non-adjustable valve (yet a valve which had to have some capability of adjustability to do the initial calibrations when it was built). This covers all GM, Ford, and Chrysler systems back into the 1950s, which used a pressure regulation mechanism to optimize evaporator temperature. Although some have successfully used hybrid refrigerants available from many companies, I personally feel it’s best to use readily available refrigerant rather than rely on the continued availability of an alternative—in the long term. So, to me, helping members of the automotive hobby to deal with situations which have evolved from prior legislation can be equally as important as trying to affect future or potential legislation. Situations which, at the time, generated “What are we going to do now?” comments by many vintage vehicle owners. Sharing this “found knowledge” to help members of the vehicle hobby better enjoy their vintage vehicles in a modern world is, I personally believe, highly mutually beneficial. I feel that my employment in the automotive area (in the parts and service areas at the new vehicle dealership level, for 31 years and counting) and also being an automotive enthusiast give me a unique perspective on how technology on newer vehicles can help older vehicles to live longer useful lives and provide greater enjoyment for their owners at the same time. Plus to understand why some of the earlier designs were as great as they were . . . or where their weaknesses have proven to be and how best to lessen them . . . over time. Knowing how many things act and interact can be very helpful in projecting or estimating what might happen in the future. In recent times, the focus of future legislation has tended toward newer and future vehicles rather than more vintage vehicles. Exhaust emissions, fuel economy, public transportation and vehicle occupant safety are some of the main areas of focus. Still, our TVCC operatives are vigilant on any items or areas of concern with respect to vintage vehicles and those who own and enjoy them . . . even in an “off” legislative period. Please remember that TVCC Board Meetings can be attended by representatives of any current, former and future TVCC member club. Our current meeting location in Buffalo, TX, can accommodate many visitors, so feel free to attend these quarterly meetings if you like. Also, please note that my use of “I personally . . . ” in my comments should be interpreted as “me” speaking for “myself” rather than as speaking for the TVCC as such. I can supply the document file regarding the use of R-134a to those who might be interested. The issue of engine lubricants has been covered previously, but information is still surfacing as time progresses (as more information is discovered and private industry offers more oil additives for sale). I offer this information in the orientation of sharing accumulated knowledge with others of similar interests. I hope to see you all at the next TVCC Board Meeting! Willis Bell General Chairperson MEMBERSHIP NEWS The Texas Legislature’s 80th Session passed or enacted no major bills detrimental to automotive enthusiasts and their vehicle hobby activities. On behalf of TVCC, we would like to thank you for your membership and interest in monitoring proposed vehicle hobby-related legislation. TVCC membership runs on the calendar year from January 1st through December 31st. We are now asking that you initiate or continue your club’s/group’s membership for 2008. Several clubs have already renewed! Dues remain the same: $1 per car club member. Many clubs change presidents / newsletter editors annually. When renewing, please send me a Membership Application / Update form so we can ensure that our information on your club / group is current! We also have a “Club of the Month” feature where a particular club is showcased in an issue of The TVCC News. Your support of and membership in the TVCC is appreciated! Nick Harper, 8415 Old Moss Rd Dallas, TX 75231-1610
Third Quarter, 2008 July 20, 2008 Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, Buffalo Fourth Quarter, 2008 October 19, 2008 Dickey’s Barbecue Pit, Buffalo
Greetings from your TVCC Calendar of Events Chairperson; if your club publishes electronic copies of your newsletter to your membership, please consider sending the TVCC Calendar of Events Chairperson a copy. Having an electronic copy will make it much easier to include your events in the TVCC Calendar of Events. We can use any file type, PDF, Word Document, ASCII text, etc. My email address is SunShineJ@jackson57.net. Thank you,
Nick Harper - Dallas Trinity River Project review by Army Corps of Engineers. Membership renewal notices were sent to 27 member clubs; 16 paid. SunShine Jackson (Newsletter & Website) – $103.74 in petty cash, changing newsletter font size. Gary Butler – trademark of TVCC logo: for federal trademark must be engaged in interstate commerce. May be eligible for state of Texas trademark. Willis Bell – “contact TVCC” item. Receives one or two inquiries per week.
Logo simplification: number of colors no longer a cost issue. Trademark or copyright: which is stronger? New Business Complaint from member of Special Interest Fords of the ’50s Houston because current issues of TVCC newsletter are password-protected from general public. Protection of intellectual assets is permitted! Password-protecting the newsletter area of the website allows current member clubs to access current newsletters. Executive Session was convened to discuss and formulate policy for website items. Nominees for 2008 TVCC Board: Nominations were received for Willis Bell, Gary Butler, Nick Harper, SunShine Jackson, Wendall Spreadbury. Election of Officers for 2008 TVCC Board: Moved, seconded, passed to elect all nominees. General Chair: Willis Bell Co-Chair: Gary Butler Secretary: Nick Harper Treasurer: Wendall Spreadbury Membership: Nick Harper Newsletter Editor & Webmistress: SunShine Jackson
Associate Member plaques: SunShine displayed seven designs from businesses ranging from Houston to Cleveland, TX. Physical sizes were 6 by 8, 7 by 9, 8 by 10 inches. Prices ranged from $85 to $15.50 including lettering, logo, replaceable year token; 8 by 10 plaque with grain walnut-wrapped edges, black plate, gold border, year token in shape of state of Texas was approved. Upcoming Old Car Picnic -- Print 25 color copies of newsletter, 50 color copies of TVCC history page: expense approved. Next Meeting: Sunday, 27 April 2008 at Dickey’s conference room, Buffalo, TX, 1:00 p.m. Nick Harper Secretary Logo for TVCC Members The TVCC Member Logo is available as a digital file from me via email – SunShineJ@jackson57.net. Feel FREE to ask! SunShine Jackson Newsletter Editor and Webmistress Membership Renewals/Additions Please forward your updated membership form and dues to Nick Harper, our Membership Chairperson. Please forward a CURRENT TVCC Membership Application (http://clubs.hemmings.com/clubsites/TVCC/Application.html) to me with your membership renewal check. Please contact Nick Harper via snail mail, telephone or email: 8415 Old Moss Rd. Dallas, TX 75231-1610 (214) 349-6584 - harper1425@sbcglobal.net You can check your club’s membership status on the TVCC web site http://clubs.hemmings.com/TVCC/ by picking the Membership link on the left side of the page. The web site should be updated shortly. If you have any questions, feel free to contact Nick. If you are a member, please contact SunShine Jackson for your TVCC Member Logo and URL combination for inclusion in your club’s newsletter. TVCC Calendar
Spring is about to be upon us. Is your ride ready? We have several events for you to attend, listed below. Please send a copy of your Club’s Newsletter to the TVCC Calendar of Events Chairperson upon each publication, in order to have ‘your’ events current in this publication. Here are the current categories: EAST (East Texas), WEST for West Texas and PAN for Plains/Panhandle locations, Dallas – Fort Worth (DFW), Houston – Gulf Coast (HOU), and Central (Austin/San Antonio) (CEN).
SCHEDULED EVENTS
Let us showcase your Club! TVCC Club of the Month Club Information Sheet Member Club’s Name: _________________________________________________________________ How many members do you have? _____________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Single- or multi-marque? Stock/Original? Modified? Custom? Race? Is Your Group Affiliated with a National Club Organization(s)? __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Do you have any Civic/Charity involvements? __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Do you sponsor/associate with particular cyclical events (weekly, monthly, annually)? If so, what are they? _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Please send your TVCC Club of the Month Information Sheet to: TVCC Membership - c/o Nick Harper - 8415 Old Moss Rd. - Dallas, TX 75231-1610 Or E-mail to: harper1425@sbcglobal.net Please check your Newsletter Address Label for the expiration date of your club’s membership. FROM: Texas Vehicle Club Council http://clubs.hemmings.com/TVCC/ 19251 Spanish Needle Drive Houston, Texas 77084-4343 
Texas Vehicle Club Council http://clubs.hemmings.com/TVCC/ 19251 Spanish Needle Drive Houston, Texas 77084-4343 
Next TVCC Board Meeting The next TVCC Board meeting will be April 27, 2008, in Buffalo, Texas, at Dickey’s Barbecue Pit at 1:00 p.m. [Eat at Noon or sooner.] Phone: (903) 322-5248 Dickey’s Barbecue Pit is located on the west side of Interstate 45 at the Highway 79 exit (Exit 178). For more information, contact your local TVCC Board Member. The TVCC encourages all members and guests to attend. SEMA Government Relations Office 1317 F St., NW, Suite 500 Washington, D.C. 20004 (202) 783-6007 FAX (202) 783-6024 Steve McDonald: VP, Government Affairs Stuart Gosswein: Director, Federal Government Affairs Jason Tolleson: Director, SEMA Action Network Ben Burdick: Research Coordinator For more legislative and regulatory information, check out the SEMA website: http://www.semasan.com TVCC Board Members 2008: General Chairperson Willis Bell (817) 594-3558 220 E. Second Street C-BODY@webtv.net Weatherford, TX. 76086 Membership Chairperson Nick Harper (214) 349-6584 8415 Old Moss Rd. harper1425@sbcglobal.net Dallas, TX. 75231-1610
Nick Harper (214) 349-6584 8415 Old Moss Rd harper1425@sbcglobal.net Dallas, TX. 75231-1610 Treasurer Wendall Spreadbury (936) 564-0620 7437 E. St. Hwy 21 wendall@suddenlink.net Nacogdoches, TX. 75961 Co-Chairperson Gary Butler (713) 862-4686 315 W. 17th Street gtbtlr@cs.com Houston, TX 77008
SunShine Jackson SunShineJ@jackson57.net Calendar of Events Chairperson SunShine Jackson (281) 381-6211 19251 Spanish Needle Drive SunShineJ@jackson57.net Houston, TX 77084-4343 Directory: tvcc -> newsletter-Word newsletter-Word -> 4th Quarter 2007 a quarterly Publication of the Texas Vehicle Club Council Download 137.17 Kb. Share with your friends:
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