SEMA invites you to celebrate National Collector Car Appreciation Day 2013, slated for July 12.

The annual event—which comprises shows, cruises, barbecues, and other car-themed get-togethers held throughout the country—was conceived as an enjoyable way of honoring the collector-car hobby and preserving it for future generations of enthusiasts.

You can find a list of currently scheduled events on the home page of the SEMA Action Network, at www.semaSAN.com/CCAD.

For more information, or to register your own event, call SAN Director Colby Martin at (909) 978-6721 or email san@sema.org.

We’re always interested in seeing what awesome Corvettes our readers own! After all that work you’ve put into it, why not show it to the world in the ‘Glass Menagerie section of VETTE Magazine?

If you want a chance to show off your ride, send us a few high resolution photos and don’t forget to include information like modifications and what makes your Vette awesome. Your full name and location are important too!

Send your submission to vette@sorc.com with the subject line “Glass” or mail it to us at:

VETTE Magazine

c/o ‘Glass Menagerie

9036 Brittany Way

Tampa, FL 33619

If you missed out on the first round of the Mantic Performance Clutches Photo Contest, now’s your chance to get in on the fun. Through July 31, 2013, VETTE and Mantic are teaming up to present Round 2 of the contest, which is once again open to all LS-powered ’97-’13 Corvettes. The winner, as selected by our staff, will receive a $2,500 check from Mantic.

To enter, just submit the following material to Mantic-Vette-Giveaway@sorc.com:
- A high-res photo of your LS-powered ’97-’13 Corvette (1-5 MB)
- A short (160 words or less) description of the car
- Your contact information, including e-mail address

Submissions will be judged on both the appearance of the car as well the overall quality of the photo, so don’t be afraid to get creative.

That’s it. Now get out there and start snapping!

While in Bowling Green recently for the NCM Birthday Bash event, our man Walt Thurn snapped this shot of five early-production 2014 Stingrays parked behing the Corvette Assembly Plant.

Which paint color--silver, blue, black, burgundy, or (barely visible in the background) red--would be your pick?

 The 2014 Corvette Stingray has some interesting regular production options.

Here's some of the more unusual ones.

RPO N26 3-spoke, sueded microfiber-wrapped steering wheel

RPO BV4 Plaque, personalized, custom-made with your name and VIN

RPO FAY Carbon fiber instrument panel.

We'll bring you more RPO codes from the 2014 Corvette Stingray next month.

Magnificent and serene Kansas City, Missouri, turns into a car collector’s paradise twice a year when Mecum Auctions comes to town. Last weekend, April 25-27, the Kansas City Convention Center was transformed into that dream location with 735 cars spread across the gleaming floor of beautiful Bartle Hall. With 446 cars selling over the three-day period for a 61 percent sell-through rate, the enduring auction brought a strong $9.6 million total.

1961     CORVETTE                                           ROMAN RED                       $50000

1967     CORVETTE      CONVERTIBLE      MARLBORO MAROON   $56500

1967     CORVETTE      CONVERTIBLE      GREEN                                    $55000

1967     CORVETTE      CONVERTIBLE      WHITE                                    $64000

1967     CORVETTE      CONVERTIBLE      ELKHART BLUE                  $58500

For access to complete auction results and other member benefits, sign up for the free InfoNet service offered at www.Mecum.com.

Mecum’s next auction is just around the corner with the original, largest and best muscle car auction returning to Indianapolis this May 14-19 with Dana Mecum’s 26th Original Spring Classic at the Indiana State Fairgrounds. To consign a vehicle or to pre-register to bid at one of Mecum Auctions’ upcoming events, visit www.Mecum.com or call (262) 275-5050.

 Welcome Gearheads!

 It's warming up and Holley is out on the road. Make sure you come and see them at the Holley trailer at the following events. 

May:
(5/3-5) NHRA Summit Racing Equipment Southern Nationals - Commerce, GA


(5/3-5) NSRA Street Rod Nationals South Plus - Knoxville, TN


(5/16-19) Cruisin' Ocean City - Ocean City, MD


(5/17-19) NHRA Kansas Nationals - Topeka, KS


(5/30-6/2) NHRA Toyota Summernationals - Englishtown, NJ



June:

(6/1-8) HOT ROD Power Tour! - Various Locations


(6/13-15) Holley Hot Rod Reunion - Bowling Green, KY


More to come!

 Dart LS Next Quick Specs
• 9.240in deck height

• Cylinders extended by .375in (effective deck height 9.615in)

• Stock & aftermarket LS components utilized

• Available in standard 4.000in & 4.125in bore sizes (4.200in maximum)

• Manufactured in US using premium cast iron

In Dart’s dyno room on April 4, their new LS Next block was undergoing its final stages of testing before making its production debut.  “It produced 740hp @ 7,000rpm,” said its creator Richard Maskin “and it sustained 700hp for a long way.” Configured with 4.155in bore and 4in stroke the 434cu in test engine made 600ft lbs of torque.

Introduced by General Motors in 1997, the purpose of Dart’s LS replacement block is to exploit greater potential from the engine, particularly in the reduction of windage and improved lubrication.

To keep the tests simple and meaningful Dart used a distributor and a carburetor. In so doing they isolated the effects of modern ignition, fuel injection, and electronics from the equation. “It’s got a mechanical roller camshaft in it,” said Richard, “because I wanted to be able to rev it to 8,000rpm with the existing springs. It makes over 690hp @ 8,000rpm. It has a real flat power curve emphasizing its suitability for street use. It’s got a small cam in it, 255/265. It’s got our Cathedral-port heads, GM intake manifold, and a conventional-looking oil pan. It has, however, 12:1 compression ratio.”

To monitor the oil level during testing, a sight gauge was installed on the side of the engine. Because the lubrication system was altered significantly, an external pump was used for ease of adjustability. “When we started out we had too much pressure, so we had to constantly change the bypass spring till we got it functioning within the appropriate range. Now we have the final specification for a stock-style pump.”

Dart felt there was little to be gained by putting an efficient oil pan on the stock block because of its reputation for excessive windage and numerous oil leaks in the crankcase. “You can minimize some of the leaks with lifter bushings in the stock block, but there is still excessive leakage around the main bearings.”

For the new LS Next block, Moroso will produce a full kick-out dry-sump pan, similar to that used in Pro Stock. In the meantime by adapting an existing dry-sump oil pan for testing purposes, Dart charted an engine power increase of 25hp average. Compared with the stock block, which tends to pickup around 10hp, these results were encouraging.

Lastly, Dart’s LS Next block employs 350-style upper main bearing shells, and bearing manufacturer Clevite is currently producing the initial 1,000 sets. Importantly the new bearings accommodate the stock crank. Reassuringly, Dart’s new LS Next block accepts all the stock components including, pistons, front cover, rear cover, cylinder heads, top plate, and so on—everything is designed to accommodate stock LS parts, except the oil pan.


Chevrolet announced today that the all-new C7 coupe will carry an MSRP of $51,995, while the Convertible version will start at $56,995.

Standard features include the following:

• Eight-way adjustable power seats with lightweight magnesium frames
• Five-position Drive Mode Selector
• New seven-speed manual trans with Active Rev Matching
• 6.2L LT1 engine with DFI, AFM, and continuously variable valve timing
• A carbon-fiber hood on all models, with a carbon removable roof panel on coupes
• An aluminum frame that is 99 pounds lighter and 57 percent stiffer than its predecessor
• HID/LED lighting
• Dual driver-configurable infotainment screens, with MyLink and rear-vision camera
• Bose nine-speaker sound system with SiriusXM, Bluetooth connectivity, and auxiliary input jack
• Remote keyless entry with pushbutton start
• Power tilt/telescoping steering wheel
• An fully electronic top that can be lowered remotely using the key fob (Convertible only)

Major options include the 3LT interior package with leather-wrapped interior ($8,005); Z51 Performance Package ($2,800); Competition sports seats ($2,495); exposed-carbon roof panel ($1,995); Magnetic Ride Control with PTM ($1,795); dual-mode exhaust system ($1,195); carbon interior trim ($995); suede microfiber-wrapped upper interior trim ($995); red-painted calipers ($595); black-painted wheels ($495).

Legislation (H.B. 4001) to repeal the requirement that all gasoline offered for sale in the state contain a percentage of ethanol was approved by the Senate on a 33 – 1 vote.    

Currently, the Florida Renewable Fuels Standard requires that all gasoline sold or offered for sale by a terminal supplier, importer, blender or wholesaler in Florida contain 9-10 percent ethanol, or other alternative fuel, by volume.  The bill will now be sent to the governor for his signature and enactment into law.

Contact Governor Rick Scott (Contact Info Below) Immediately to Request his Support for H.B. 4001

• H.B. 4001 recognizes that ethanol increases water formation which can then corrode metals, plastics and rubber, especially over a period of time when the vehicle is not used.  Current high performance specialty parts along with pre-model year 2001 cars and parts may be most susceptible to corrosion.

• H.B. 4001 recognizes that the life span of vehicles and equipment can be dramatically reduced with the wrong fuel and that owners could be confronted with break downs. Anti-corrosion additives are available for each purchase of gasoline but can become expensive, burdensome and require consumer education.

• H.B. 4001 recognizes that while the current ethanol mandate does not apply to fuel used in collector vehicles, off-road vehicles, motorcycles or small engines, there has been an inability to obtain unblended gasoline for engines that may be damaged by ethanol.

Please e-mail a copy of your letter to Steve McDonald at stevem@sema.org.  Also, please forward this Alert to your fellow car enthusiasts.  Urge them to join the SAN and help defend the hobby! Thank you for your assistance. 

Florida Governor Rick Scott

Address:
Executive Office of Governor Rick Scott
400 S. Monroe St.
Tallahassee, FL 32399 

Electronic Message:
http://www.flgov.com/contact-gov-scott/email-the-governor/

Office Telephone: 
(850) 488-7146

Vette Magazine has just released a line of merchandise and apparel proudly branded with the Vette logo. The line features both men’s and women’s shirts, as well as visors and beverage koozies to help keep your drinks cold at car shows!

To see the full line, visit: www.musclecarmagswag.com

CORSA Performance Exhausts will offer free installations of its C5 and C6 Corvette exhaust systems this Thursday, April 25 through Saturday, April 27 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the 2013 National Corvette Museum Bash in Bowling Green. Ky.  
 
Mid America Motorworks, Inc. will be selling the CORSA systems for C6 ZR1/Z06, C6, C5 and C5Z06 models in two different sound levels: Xtreme and Sport.  A choice of polished stainless steel Pro-Series Tips or Black Tips will be available, depending on the exact part number.  The manufacturer's patented Reflective Sound Cancellation(tm) (RSC(tm)) technology is precisely tuned to each specific vehicle, giving Corvette owners a high-performance exterior exhaust note without interior drone that is unmatched in the industry.

  
"CORSA Performance Exhausts are nearly synonymous with Corvettes, so we're pleased to be able to offer complimentary installs during the NCM Bash, which draws so many of our customers," said Craig R. Kohrs, VP and General Manager, TMG Performance Products. "Our customers appreciate the convenience of on-site installations during events like this to help streamline the purchasing process and enable them to immediately enjoy their new CORSA system on the drive home."


This year Corvette aficionados will have the opportunity to view the unveiling of the long-awaited, all-new 7th Generation Corvette. The NCM Bash offers fun and excitement for Corvette enthusiasts of all ages, including appearances by the Corvette race team members. Also offered will be vintage race car rides, celebrity choice car shows, the Ladies' Oasis, and a Garage Party with women of the GM Corvette Team.   The NCM also will offer free guided tours during the event, and provide directions for 10 of the longer Museum Road Tour Routes.  To view the Tour schedule, visit http://www.corvettemuseum.org/registration/bash/info.shtml.


CORSA Performance Exhausts, a TMG Performance Products, LLC company headquartered in Berea, Ohio, is a leading manufacturer of premium performance exhaust systems for cars, trucks, SUVs and marine applications.  Through its patented Reflective Sound Cancellation(tm) (RSC(tm)) technology, CORSA Performance Exhausts provides the industry's only guaranteed drone-free driving experience backed by premium performance and superior customer service. For more information, call 800.486.0999 or visit www.corsaperformance.com. 
 

Recently we wrote to tell you about pending legislation in Florida that would change regulations regarding ethanol-infused gasoline. As previously mentioned, ethanol can be responsible for the deterioration of plastic, metals, and rubber, especially in pre-model year 2001 vehicles as well as the corrosion of aftermarket performance parts. H.B. 4001 Legislation recognizes that ethanol use can cause more frequent breakdowns and significantly reduce the life span of a vehicle. The bill is seeking to repeal the requirement that fuel sold in Florida contain a 9-10 percent blend of ethanol or equivalent.

We also included an email list of Florida representatives and asked you, the readers, to help support H.B. 4001. All of your hard work has paid off, as the house version has passed with a vote of 77 to 39. The bill will now be considered by two Florida Senate committees, the Environmental Preservation and Conservation and the Communications, Energy, and Public Utilities Committees. Again, we’re asking you to show your support and send emails backing H.B. 4001 and its goal to remove the ethanol requirement.

Also be sure to send a copy of your email to Steve McDonald at stevem@sema.org and encourage your friends to do the same. More information is available at www.semasan.com.

Act now to defend the hobby!

dean.charles.web@flsenate.gov
abruzzo.joseph.web@flsenate.gov
altman.thad.web@flsenate.gov
bullard.dwight.web@flsenate.gov
gardiner.andy.web@flsenate.gov
grimsley.denise.web@flsenate.gov
latvala.jack.web@flsenate.gov
simpson.wilton.web@flsenate.gov
soto.darren.web@flsenate.gov
flores.anitere.web@flsenate.gov
garcia.rene.web@flsenate.gov
abruzzo.joseph.web@flsenate.gov
bean.aaron.web@flsenate.gov
evers.greg.web@flsenate.gov
gibson.audrey.web@flsenate.gov
hukill.dorothy.web@flsenate.gov
simpson.wilton.web@flsenate.gov
smith.chris.web@flsenate.gov

 Corvette Racing scored two top-five finishes at Long Beach on April 20, 2013, to maintain a share of the lead in the American Le Mans Series (ALMS) Manufacturer Standings through the first two races of the season.

Tommy Milner and Oliver Gavin, drove the No. 4 Compuware Corvette C6.R to a fourth-place finish in the GT class in the two-hour Tequila Patron American Le Mans Series at Long Beach on the 1.968-mile, 11-turn street circuit. Antonio Garcia and Jan Magnussen finished fifth in the No. 3 Compuware Corvette C6.R.
 
“As we saw in qualifying, the cars are just so close in performance,” Milner said. “We were in a good spot, but just a little unlucky there.”
 
Milner, who earned his first career ALMS race at this event last year, qualified sixth and had driven up to fourth when the team pitted with just over an hour remaining, and changed drivers. During the exchange, the team had a difficult time securing the steering wheel.
 
“Pretty much our race was so dictated by that pit stop where I got in and really just struggled to get the wheel on,” Gavin said. During the stop the team also experienced some trouble with one of the tires, and “the wheel got spun around and I was then trying to find the point where it had to slot on, and it wasn’t so easy to see. By the time I got it on, everybody else had finished up their pit stops and we came out pretty much at the back.”
 
Garcia, meanwhile, started fourth and quickly moved toward the front.
 
“Everything went to plan, basically,” Garcia said. “We knew how usually the first lap works here. I basically put pressure on, and the two cars in front of me both went off so I kind of made myself a little bit of a gap and made a pass on both.”
 
But, a series cautions slowed the No. 3 Corvette C6.R’s momentum, and brought pit strategy into play.
 
“All of those yellows – especially that first one, it was like flipping a coin,” Garcia said. “I think it was the right call to stay out, but then with all of these yellows coming after is where being in the lead wasn’t such an advantage anymore.”
 
The No. 3 Corvette C6.R was running second when the driver change was made.
 
“It started off pretty well,” Magnussen said. “I think the way the strategy and the pit stops worked out really hurt us. It seemed like everybody else was trying to salvage something and kind of went out of sequence and gained really well on it, and we lost on it, unfortunately. We were struggling a little bit too much right there at the end with grip.”
 
With less than 15 minutes remaining, Gavin passed Magnussen for fourth place.
 
“It was another learning lesson for us,” said Gavin, who teamed with Milner and Richard Westbrook last month to win the season-opening Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring. “It was good just to score the points in the championship, to get fourth place, I’ll take that every day with how rough that race was. It was pretty nasty at times, and difficult, and traffic was hard. There was plenty of bumping and banging, and you just have to try and keep the car clean. There were a number of times where I thought, ‘Oh, this could get pretty messy here. We’re going to lose a corner off the car.’ Or, it was just sliding and sliding and you were just hoping that it was going to stop sliding before we ended up hitting the wall, and fortunately it did.”
 
The No. 55 BMW Z4 GTE won the race, followed by the No. 56 BMW Z4 GTE, the No. 91 SRT Viper GTS-R, and the two Corvettes.
 
Unofficially, Chevrolet and BMW share the Manufacturers Standings with 34 points apiece.
 
“Those guys battled the whole race,” said Jim Campbell, Chevrolet Vice President of Performance Vehicles and Motorsports. “I would say tires were a factor throughout the race. It was tricky out there. I commend the whole Corvette Racing team for really staying focused and driving toward the front. You know, a couple of cars in front of us were a little tight on gas. We didn’t get them today, but it was a good points day and momentum in the season continues. So, on to Monterrey.”
 
The ALMS season resumes with Round 3 on May 9-11 with the American Le Mans Series Monterey (Calif.) at Laguna Seca, where Gavin and Milner won last year.

April 25-27, 2013 marks the official kick-off for on-site National Corvette Museum event season as the NCM Bash welcomes hundreds of Corvette enthusiasts for a weekend of fun and camaraderie.

The main highlight of the event is the chance to see not only the C7 coupe and convertible Stingrays, but also attend seminars and walk-arounds with GM engineers and designers from Warren Tech Center, Milford Proving Ground and the Bowling Green Assembly Plant. These presentations will provide an up close and personal look at the newest generation and give attendees and media the opportunity to ask questions of the team who created the car.

Also on hand will be members of the Corvette Racing team, including Program Manager Doug Fehan, Crew Chief Dan Binks and Driver Tommy Milner. The guys will share stories from the 2012 winning season, what to expect for 2013 and other details on the race team. After the seminar, attendees will have the chance to bid on unique and special items donated by Doug Fehan and Corvette Racing via a live auction.

Participants can enter one of two Celebrity Choice Car Shows, giving Corvette owners the opportunity to have their ride judged by VIPs in attendance with winners earning a special plaque.

The women in attendance haven't been left out of the fun as a number of activities are planned to keep them busy - including a shopping excursion to Opry Mills Mall in Nashville, Ladies' Garage Seminar presented by the women engineers of GM teaching how things work, how to have things fixed and other tips to be a smart automotive consumer, and a Ladies' Oasis with a variety of goods and services.

Racing enthusiasts will enjoy autocross, while those who like scenic drives can participate in a number of free guided road tours.

View the complete event agenda online here: 
http://www.corvettemuseum.org/registration/bash/info.shtml.

Mid America Motorworks is inviting all Corvette enthusiasts to start celebrating Corvettes 60th Anniversary early, with a lineup of activities leading up to the historic birthday.

“Corvette’s 60th Anniversary will only come around once and we want all enthusiasts to be able to participate in celebrating America’s Sports Car,” said Mike Yager, founder and Chief Cheerleader of Mid America Motorworks.

“These activities and events will allow all Corvette owners to celebrate the anniversary without going to a large show.”

The party is currently underway, with a call for Corvette owners and enthusiasts to submit a photo of them enjoying their Corvettes, for a chance to be featured on the Mid America Motorworks’ Facebook page, www.facebook.com/mamotorworks.

Beginning May 1, Mid America Motorworks will feature a different Corvette photo every day leading up to the 60th Anniversary of America’s Sports Car, June 30. Submissions for the promotion “60 Corvettes for Corvettes 60th Birthday” will be accepted through April 30. Photos will be randomly chosen from all entries.

Stage two of the celebration is the 13th Annual Drive Your Corvette to Work Day, which is sponsored by Mid America Motorworks and will be Friday, June 28 this year. In honor of Drive Your Corvette to Work Day, enthusiasts across America will make “America’s Sports Car” their commuter car for the day. Mid America Motorworks promotes Drive Your Corvette to Work Day among Corvette owners and clubs with a goal to get as many Corvettes on the road as possible, creating a traveling tribute to America’s Sports Car. Corvette owners who observe Drive Your Corvette to Work Day are encouraged to post photos of their work commute to our Facebook page to be included in the DYCTWD 2013 photo album.

The third stage will take place on Sunday June 30, the day the first Corvette rolled of the assembly line 60 years ago, in 1953. Mid America Motorworks is inviting all Corvette Clubs and enthusiasts to get together for a sound off at 12:00 p.m. in honor of this momentous occasion. Whether you have a barbecue with your Club and sound off together or you rev your engine at noon in your driveway, let’s make sure Corvette’s are heard across the country in recognition of this historic event.

To participate in the photo contest, post pictures of Drive Your Corvette to Work Day or for more information on all the events, visit Mid America Motorworks’ Facebook page at www.facebook.com/mamotorworks.

During its reveal at the 2013 Detroit auto show in January, the new C7 Stingray was met with gasps and flashing lights. The iconic 2014 Corvette was sporting a whole new look, and the press and legions of Corvette fanatics couldn’t get enough of it.

Last week, General Motors posted a new video on its YouTube channel describing the five goals that GM set out to achieve while designing the exterior of the new Stingray.

Firstly, “we wanted to change the upper. We wanted something new, different, compelling that would give you that 100-yard away distinction,” explains Corvette Exterior Design Manager, Kirk Bennion in the video.

Bennion goes on to explain that the front end was revamped to give it a more serious look. “Not angry, but serious,” he clarifies. This “serious look” is achieved through more angular lines of the hood, a more pronounced grille, and foreboding headlights.

The side coves which he describes as a “signature Corvette cue” have been enhanced to appear “more expressive and more bold.” This has been achieved through the use of sharp angles, and larger exposed black vents. The C6 design was a little simpler, and the side coves were not nearly as noticeable.

Bennion also stresses the idea of sculpture as a main design goal. The acute lines and angles of the new Stingray make the car look as if it might have been chiseled from stone.

Lastly and perhaps most controversially, is the modification of the rear end. “We wanted a game-changer,” Bennion says. The signature circular taillights of the C6 have been replaced by more rectangular lenses, which has some Vette traditionalists up in arms. In a video posted on GM Authority in late March, GM exterior design director Tom Peters defended the change, stating, “I wanted to push it away from the traditional round signature to create as much newness as possible. I really wanted to shake it up.” Peters goes on to explain that the circular lights were considered, but the idea was dashed when it was decided that they aged the look of the car and “just didn’t work.”

The initial reaction to the newest Corvette has been mixed. However, with time it’s likely that skeptical enthusiasts will learn to love the sharp new look of the 2014 Corvette Stingray.

Sources: GM Authority, General Motors

The use of ethanol, an agent found in gasoline sold at most every gas station in the country, could be going by the wayside in Florida if the Florida House of Representatives decides to pass H.B. 4001 this week. H.B. 4001 calls for a full repeal of the ethanol requirement. The Senate bill (S.B. 320) was amended to only “encourage” rather than require ethanol blends.

Most gasoline is currently rated at 10% ethanol, or E10. The issues with ethanol are pertinent to the automotive hobby. Water formation caused by ethanol use can corrode plastic, metals, and rubber, especially in pre-model year 2001 vehicles. High performance specialty parts are also susceptible to corrosion caused by ethanol-infused fuel. H.B. 4001 Legislation recognizes that ethanol use can cause more frequent breakdowns and significantly reduce the life span of a vehicle. It is important to car enthusiasts that Legislation H.B. 4001 passes!

Do your part to request support for H.B. 4001. If you have yet to do so, please contact members of the Florida House of Representatives (listed below) to voice your opinion on this important matter. Also send your email to Steve McDonald at stevem@sema.org and encourage your friends to do the same. More information is available at www.semasan.com.

Swift action is needed to defend the hobby. Act now!

Clay.Ingram@myfloridahouse.gov;
Doug.Broxson@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Matt.Gaetz@myfloridahouse.gov;
Marti.Coley@myfloridahouse.gov;
Jimmy.Patronis@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Halsey.Beshears@myfloridahouse.gov; 
John.Wood@myfloridahouse.gov;  
Michelle.Rehwinkel@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Elizabeth.Porter@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Janet.Adkins@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Lake.Ray@myfloridahouse.gov;  
Reggie.Fullwood@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Mia.Jones@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Daniel.Davis@myfloridahouse.gov;  
Charles.McBurney@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Ronald.Renuart@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Travis.Cummings@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Charles.VanZant@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Clovis.Watson@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Keith.Perry@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Charlie.Stone@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Dennis.Baxley@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Travis.Hutson@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Dave.Hood@myfloridahouse.gov;  
Dwayne.Taylor@myfloridahouse.gov;  
David.Santiago@myfloridahouse.gov;  
Jason.Brodeur@myfloridahouse.gov;  
Mike.Clelland@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Karen.CastorDentel@myfloridahouse.gov; Bryan.Nelson@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Larry.Metz@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Marlene.OToole@myfloridahouse.gov; Jimmie.Smith@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Robert.Schenck@myfloridahouse.gov; 
mike.fasano@myfloridahouse.gov; 
 Richard.Corcoran@myfloridahouse.gov; Will.Weatherford@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Neil.Combee@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Seth.McKeel@myfloridahouse.gov; 
 Steve.Precourt@myfloridahouse.gov; Mike.LaRosa@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Ricardo.Rangel@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Steve.Precourt@myfloridahouse.gov; Randolph.Bracy@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Bruce.Antone@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Linda.Stewart@myfloridahouse.gov; Victor.Torres@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Joe.Saunders@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Tom.Goodson@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Steve.Crisafulli@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Ritch.Workman@myfloridahouse.gov; 
John.Tobia@myfloridahouse.gov; Debbie.Mayfield@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Cary.Pigman@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Ben.Albritton@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Jake.Raburn@myfloridahouse.gov; 
dan.raulerson@myfloridahouse.gov; Ross.Spano@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Dana.Young@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Betty.Reed@myfloridahouse.gov;  
Janet.Cruz@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Mark.Danish@myfloridahouse.gov; 
James.Grant@myfloridahouse.gov; Carl.Zimmermann@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Larry.Ahern@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Dwight.Dudley@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Kathleen.Peters@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Darryl.Rouson@myfloridahouse.gov;  
Jim.Boyd@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Ray.Pilon@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Greg.Steube@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Doug.Holder@myfloridahouse.gov; Ken.Roberson@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Ray.Rodrigues@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Dane.Eagle@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Heather.Fitzenhagen@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Matt.Caldwell@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Matt.Hudson@myfloridahouse.gov;  
Kevin.Rader@myfloridahouse.gov; 
MaryLynn.Magar@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Gayle.Harrell@myfloridahouse.gov;  
Larry.Lee@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Pat.Rooney@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Mark.Pafford@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Dave.Kerner@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Bobby.Powell@myfloridahouse.gov;  
Bill.Hager@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Lori.Berman@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Irving.Slosberg@myfloridahouse.gov;  
Gwyn.Clarke-Reed@myfloridahouse.gov; 
George.Moraitis@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Perry.Thurston@myfloridahouse.gov; 
 Hazelle.Rogers@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Jim.Waldman@myfloridahouse.gov;  
Jared.Moskowitz@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Katie.Edwards@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Elaine.Schwartz@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Joe.Gibbons@myfloridahouse.gov; 
shevrin.jones@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Sharon.Pritchett@myfloridahouse.gov;  
Manny.Diaz@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Richard.Stark@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Carlos.Trujillo@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Kathleen.Passidomo@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Barbara.Watson@myfloridahouse.gov;  
Daphne.Campbell@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Cynthia.Stafford@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Jose.Oliva@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Jose.Rodriguez@myfloridahouse.gov;  
David.Richardson@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Erik.Fresen@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Michael.Bileca@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Jose.Diaz@myfloridahouse.gov;  
Kionne.McGhee@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Frank.Artiles@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Jeanette.Nunez@myfloridahouse.gov; 
Holly.Raschein@myfloridahouse.gov;  
eddy.gonzalez@myfloridahouse.gov; 
ed.hooper@myfloridahouse.gov 

  Premium synthetic oil manufacturer, Royal Purple, today announced it will again host a contest that sends one lucky winner to participate in and drive on the Hot Rod Magazine Power Tour®. The 2013 Royal Purple High Performance Experience will be hosted on the brand’s Facebook Fan Page beginning April 15.

Entrants must submit a photo of their American muscle car or performance vehicle between April 15 and April 23 on the contest tab of the Royal Purple Inc. Facebook fan page to be considered. The winner will be announced April 30 and will receive tour registration fees, VIP parking, and a Royal Purple Visa gift card to use towards expenses. Royal Purple apparel and decals will also be furnished to the winner.
 
Prior to final judging, a field of five semi-finalists will be determined by popular vote April 24 – 26 on the contest tab from all entries submitted. A grand-prize winner will be selected from the five semi-finalists by a panel of independent judges after each submits a detailed list of the vehicle’s specs and modifications, as well as providing proof of registration, insurance and a valid driver’s license.
 
Last year’s winner of the Royal Purple High Performance Experience, Scott Shanks, will serve as one of six judges for this year’s contest. Including Shanks, this year’s panel of judges are Jeff Dahlin, Publisher of Hot Rod and Hot Rod Deluxe; Greg Gill, Vice President of Marketing and Communications for Pirelli World Challenge; Jim McIlvaine, eCare Manager for Optima Batteries Inc. and Jeff Lacina, Owner of Track Guys Performance Driving Events.
 
In addition to the winner, one runner-up will also be selected in the event the winner cannot fulfill contest winner requirements. As a runner-up, they will receive a case of Royal Purple Motor Oil and variety of Royal Purple gear.
 
For a complete list of rules and further details about this contest, please visit the Royal Purple Inc. Facebook fan page at Facebook.com/OfficialRoyalPurple.

The first 2014 Chevy Corvette Stingray convertible sold this past weekend at the Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach auction -- fetching an incredible $1 million. The car was sold to none other than the famed NASCAR team owner Rick Hendrick, who also made headlines earlier this year when he purchased the first 2014 Stingray coupe in January at Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale. Although the price of the car may seem extreme, all of the money from the purchase of the convertible will go directly to the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute.

"I paid a little more than I wanted for that car," Hendrick explained to FoxNews.com in an interview after gavel dropped, "But I owe so much to Corvette for getting me into the car business in the first place."

Since the convertible has yet to be built, Hendrick will have the opportunity to start up his new 6.2L V8-powered convertible at a ceremony on the production line upon the completion of the build at the Corvette assembly plant in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Hendrick will also be able to choose the color, trim, and specifications of his new Corvettes worth a staggering $2.1 million as a pair.

Hendrick -- an avid collector of expensive automobiles -- explained that he has long had a soft spot for Chevys.

"Corvettes are a passion of mine. I love those cars so much, and to have the first Corvettes from the new generation means so much to me," he told FoxNews.com.

The 2014 Stingrays will join a host of other special Chevrolets in Hendrick's private collection that he has purchased through Barrett-Jackson auctions, including a 2010 Camaro SS, 2011 Corvette Z06 Carbon Edition, and 2012 ZL1 Camaro -- each the first of its kind.

The 2014 Stingray production is scheduled to begin later this year, with the completion of Hendrick's Corvettes planned for some time this summer.

Sources: Barrett-Jackson, Foxnews.com

 In a recent rare find, two classic Chevrolet Corvettes (one '62 and one '63) - stored for decades-are being made available by the Vicari Auction Company. Both vehicles will cross the block during 2013 Cruisin' Nocona, a north Texas collector car auction and classic car poker cruise set for April 19th and 20th in historic Nocona, Texas. 
     

The Corvettes are virtually all-original, and have been stored in Texas by a classic-vehicle aficionado and collector since the 1980s.
     
"These exceptional Corvettes add even more excitement to our auction, as our roster of high quality, difficult-to-find classic automobiles continues to grow for Cruisin' Nocona," said Pete Vicari, president, Vicari Auction Co. "Both vehicles are in excellent  condition and any classic Corvette collector will find them to be highly sought-after."
     
The 1962 Fuelie Corvette with 4.56:1 differential has less than 60,000 miles, and is one of only 254 "Big Brake" cars to roll off the line that year. "Big Brake," which is an enthusiast's term for RPO (regular production option) 687, refers to Chevrolet's racing formula, consisting of a four-speed manual transmission, top-rated 360 horsepower fuel injected 327 V8, heavy duty shocks, fast steering adapter, finned brake drums that have internal cooling fans with metallic linings and vented backing plates with attached air scoops commonly known as "Elephant ears." Delivered to the dealer in primer, its first owner painted it British Racing Green. It was driven by its current owner during his college days and painted black before putting it into controlled storage in the late 1960s. It comes with a well-documented history, its original transmission, as well as a rag top and hard top, which are both original.
     
The 1963 split window Z06 Corvette also has a well-documented history, and was purchased by the current owner in Houston in the '80s. One of only 199 Z06 Coupes produced in 1963, (all of which had the top-rated 360-horsepower Rochester fuel injected 327 engine, four-speed manual transmission and "Big Brakes"), this Vette has just 38,000 original miles and sports its original black interior. Its gold (Saddle Tan) exterior paint has been repainted once and only the mechanical change believed to be made to the Z06 is a different master cylinder.
     
Located just north of Dallas, Cruisin' Nocona will feature a collector car auction by Vicari Auto Auctions and a Classic Car Poker Run during two days of food, fun and festivities geared for the whole family. All classic automobile enthusiasts are invited to attend.
     
For more information about the Cruisin' Nocona event, contact Nocona Chamber of Commerce at 1522 U.S. 82, Nocona, TX 76255; call 940.825.3526; or visit www.nocona.org. For more information about Vicari Auction at 1900 Destrehan Ave., Harvey, LA 70058; call 504.875.3563; or visit www.vicariauction.com.

 

Windy City Corvettes in Lisle, Illinois, has announced its 2013 show schedule.

The schedule is highlighted by the Entrants Choice Corvette Show and Corvette Raffle for IL Spina Bifida Association, presented by Bill Kay Chevrolet, which will take place on August 4.

For more information, visit www.windycitycorvettes.com.

April 25-27, 2013 marks the official kick-off for on-site Museum event season as the National Corvette Museum (NCM) Bash welcomes hundreds of Corvette enthusiasts for a weekend of fun and camaraderie.

The main highlight of the event is the chance to see not only the C7 coupe and convertible Stingrays, but also attend seminars and walk-arounds with GM engineers and designers from Warren Tech Center, Milford Proving Ground and the Bowling Green Assembly Plant. These presentations will provide an up close and personal look at the newest generation and give attendees and media the opportunity to ask questions of the team who created the car.

Also on hand will be members of the Corvette Racing team, including Program Manager Doug Fehan, Crew Chief Dan Binks and Driver Tommy Milner. The guys will share stories from the 2012 winning season, what to expect for 2013 and other details on the race team. After the seminar, attendees will have the chance to bid on unique and special items donated by Doug Fehan and Corvette Racing via a live auction.

Participants can enter one of two Celebrity Choice Car Shows, giving Corvette owners the opportunity to have their ride judged by VIPs in attendance with winners earning a special plaque.
The women in attendance haven't been left out of the fun as a number of activities are planned to keep them busy - including a shopping excursion to Opry Mills Mall in Nashville, Ladies' Garage Seminar presented by the women engineers of GM teaching how things work, how to have things fixed and other tips to be a smart automotive consumer, and a Ladies' Oasis with a variety of goods and services.

Racing enthusiasts will enjoy autocross, while those who like scenic drives can participate in a number of free guided road tours.

View the complete event agenda online here:
http://www.corvettemuseum.org/registration/bash/info.shtml

Tommy Milner made a late pass for the lead and then held on for the final 15 minutes as the No. 4 GT Compuware Corvette C6.R won the American Le Mans Series GT class 61st Annual Mobil 1 12 Hours of Sebring at Sebring International Raceway on Saturday, March 16, 2013.

The No. 4 Corvette C6.R – driven by 2012 Drivers’ champions Milner and Oliver Gavin, and Richard Westbrook – overcame an early electrical issue and two key penalties to win the 2013 ALMS opener. It is Gavin’s fifth victory at Sebring; Milner and Westbrook each recorded his first.

“What an incredible effort by Corvette Racing; these guys never gave up,” said Jim Campbell, Chevrolet U.S. Vice-President for Performance Vehicles & Motorsports. “They came from behind multiple times. It was a focused team effort, with great driving and great calls in the pits, and great pits stops, and they delivered a big win. I’m proud of them.”

The No. 3 GT Compuware Corvette C6.R – driven by Antonio Garcia, Jan Magnussen and Jordan Taylor – retired with just over three hours remaining due to an overheated gearbox. The team, which also experienced an electrical issue early in the race, finished in 11th place in class, 120 laps off the pace in class.
Milner took over for Gavin with two hours to go and the No. 4 Corvette C6.R the No. 62 Ferrari F458 Italia by about one minute; when he pitted with an hour remaining, he was about a half minute behind.

“Those guys had an unreal pit stop at the end,” Milner said. “We were about a minute back and then 35 seconds at the next pit stop, and then we were 14 seconds back. And once I got to see him, I thought, ‘Here we go. I’ve got a chance here.’ Once I got close to him, he went wide in one and I knew he was pushing hard and he kept making mistakes, and that was it, that was the moment.”

“Really, it came down to when Tommy got on the back bumper of the leader, and that’s when I thought this is when we can really make this happen,” Gavin said. “Tommy was relentless – chasing him down, chasing him down, putting the pressure on. It was a spectacular victory for everybody at Corvette Racing. I’m really delighted.”

Gavin qualified second in the No. 4 Corvette C6.R, and on the very first lap gained the lead. The team was still out front in its class when, nearing the race’s third hour, Westbrook reported that smoke was coming from the dashboard.
“It was clear that we had a good car from the beginning, and then when I had that problem with the dashboard, which put us two laps down – it took a few yellows and some great stints by these two to get us back into position on the lead lap,” Westbrook said. “The pit stops and Tommy’s stint was just amazing at the end, and on balance I thought we deserved it, and we did it the hard way.”

Corvette Racing, which last year won the ALMS Manufacturers’ and Team championships, earned its ALMS-leading 78th all-time victory.
“You can’t start a better way,” Gavin said. “We had a very good year last year in the championship. We didn’t have a great Sebring last year, but this win just puts us up there straightaway, leading the championship off the bat. Tommy and I just sort of picked up where we left off last year, which is exactly what we wanted to do. Proud of all the guys at Corvette Racing today. They nailed every single stop. It was spectacular to watch.”

The No. 3 Corvette C6.R started fifth but experienced a couple of problems early. Garcia accidently ran into the back of a slower car which was in the middle of the track, and incurred a 60-second penalty, then he reported problems with downshifting. Starting on lap 20, the car three times came in for repairs – which included changing the gearbox, steering wheel and electronics.
The car is very, very good, it’s just a shame that we’re so far back,” Taylor said after his first stint. “We have a very competitive car.” The team used its remaining time on track as a test session before its night ended early.

A new survey by CarInsurance.com finds drivers would be willing to trade a lot  of their privacy in return for a discount on their car insurance rates.

The survey of 500 licensed adults found nearly two-thirds would agree to install a breathalyzer in their cars if an insurance discount were the result.

“Insurance companies are already dabbling with these technologies,” said CarInsurance.com managing editor Des Toups. “But clearly they could push the envelope even further than they are now.”

The driver survey found that, in return for a discount:

64% would let an insurance company install a breathalyzer in their cars.
39% would let an insurance company install a data-monitoring device.
37% would install a cellphone disabling device.
28% would let an insurance company limit how fast their car can go.
27% would severely restrict their driving miles.
24% would severely restrict when they drive .
20% would let an insurance company install an observation camera.
There are no discounts currently for breathalyzers, speed governors, in-car cameras or cellphone disabling devices.

”Of course, a driving record that doesn’t have a DUI or speeding ticket on it will mean cheaper insurance rates,” Toups said.

But insurers are rapidly rolling out what are known as pay-as-you-drive plans, he said, with substantial discounts for installing devices that monitor driving habits, the number of miles driven and the time of day the driver is on the road. (See “Pay-as-you-drive insurance plans.”)

Drivers in the survey were also asked about discounts for safety systems.

70% said antilock brakes would result in a discount.
80% said collision-avoidance systems would result in a discount.
31% said voice-operated controls for navigation, phone and e-mail would result in a discount.
Of those three items, Toups said, only antilock brakes typically result in a discount. Most discounts currently stem from demographic factors, he said, with education, marriage, military service and even profession affecting rates.

See CarInsurance.com’s complete “Guide to Discounts” at http://www.carinsurance.com/car-insurance-discounts.aspx.

Methodology

CarInsurance.com commissioned a survey of 500 licensed drivers over age 18. Participants were asked 10 true/false questions and demographic information. The survey was fielded in January 2013.