OpenRoad - Summer 2016 - Volume 12 / Issue 2

SUMMER 2016 / VOLUME 12 / ISSUE 2

OPENROAD

Presenting Sponsor

Sustaining

Official

Partners

Providers

Donor/Sponsor Recognition

OUR WAY OF LIFE. Since 1968.

LOYALTY

Passionate team members dedicated to building lasting and impactful relationships.

INTEGRITY

Exercising the highest ethical values and professionalism.

FAMILY

Our home is locally owned and grown in the Pacific Northwest, welcoming and supporting our community since 1968.

EXCELLENCE

We take pride in being great today, better tomorrow.

Family Owned. Manfred and Werner Scharmach

BMWNORTHWEST.COM

DID YOU KNOW?

Proud Sponsor of LEMAY-AMERICA'S CAR MUSEUM

4011 20th Street E | Tacoma, WA 98424 | 253.922.8700

We’ve all seen the initials, “SAE” on quarts of oil. Those of you who drive 1950s and 60s vintage British sports cars have seen those three letters many… many… many times. First off, they do not stand for Sigma Alpha Epsilon, unless of course they’re printed on a college student’s sweatshirt. For our purposes, the letters connote “Society of Automotive Engineers.” SAE International is an organization of engineering professionals that coordinates the development of technical standards for both ground and air vehicles. They publish over 1,600 of them for automobiles—including motor oil classification. Thus, when you see SAE 10W-30 printed on the label of a quart of oil, rest assured it is both 10W-30 grade and a full quart. Thank you Society of Automotive Engineers. Now, back to the lab!

F E A T U R E S

10

FEATURE:

AMERICA’S AUTOMOTIVE TRUST

A bold new initiative to secure America’s automotive heritage.

20

AUTOBIOGRAPHY:

1971 BMW ALPINA CSL

A rare and striking car that just may well be the ultimate BMW.

D E P A R T M E N T S 5 BEHIND THE WHEEL

24

GUEST EDITORIAL:

ELKHART LAKE WISCONSIN

William Hall gives us an insider’s look at a town with a rich motorsport connection.

A report from David Madeira, AAT CEO

6 IN THE HEADLIGHTS Summer Ender Fender Bender 7 ALONG FOR THE RIDE Random musings by the managing editor of OpenRoad 8 SIGNPOST Late breaking news & items of interest 8 DOWN THE ROAD Happenings worth saving the date

Photographs top and bottom by Deni Sullivan

9 ACM STORE New arrivals for summer 9 RECENTLY READ Interesting and informative car themed books 15 ON EXHIBIT New exhibits gracing our galleries 16 FUEL FOR THE FUTURE Special friend of ACM 17 FUEL FOR THOUGHT Financial advice for car enthusiasts 18 ROAD WELL TAKEN San Juan Island Loop 26 MEMBERSHIP Highlighting perks of membership 27 EDUCATION AT ACM Learning opportunities for all ages 28 RPM FOUNDATION Restoration. Preservation.

Mentorship.

AMERICA’S AUTOMOTIVE TRUST

PRESIDENT & CEO David Madeira

BEHIND THE WHEEL WHEN WE FIRST PROMOTED THE IDEA OF “AMERICA’S CAR MUSEUM” OVER A DECADE AGO, WE PROMISED TO BE SOMETHING SPECIAL, SOMETHING UNIQUE. WE SAID WE’D GO BEYOND THE TRADITIONAL NOTION OF A CAR MUSEUM. THAT ACCOMPLISHED, WE’VE NOW TAKEN THE NEXT LOGICAL STEP, THE CREATION OF AMERICA’S AUTOMOTIVE TRUST—AN INSTITUTION WHO’S SOLE MISSION IS TO SECURE AMERICA’S AUTOMOTIVE HERITAGE.

T

HE 2016 NICOLA BULGARI AWARD

NAMED IN HONOR OF NICOLA BULGARI, A MAN WHOSE LIFE MIRRORS THE SAME CRITERIA THE ACCOLADE RECOGNIZES

Each year, we recognize an individual whose lifelong efforts have promoted America’s automotive heritage through education, restoration and/or the collecting of classic cars. That level of commitment and passion provides an invaluable service to the collector car community and car culture at large. You, as a member of ACM, either directly or indirectly, benefit from that passion.

Born and raised in Chatham, Ontario, Mr. Myers began his career more than thirty years ago—in a one-car garage—making repairs and engine and performance upgrades. He next added bodywork modifications and custom painting. By 1979, Myers had established a loyal following among enthusiasts and collectors and was able to open a dedicated restoration and sales facility.

The award is named in honor of Nicola Bulgari, a man whose life mirrors the same criteria the accolade recognizes. His efforts to preserve America’s automotive treasures are unparalleled. To find the truth in that statement, one need only look to his remarkable collection, long service to America’s Car Museum and generosity to countless heritage organizations.

We’re proud that he allows us to confer this award in his name. It should be noted Mr. Bulgari does not delegate the selection to others—he’s far too involved for that. He is presented a list of worthy candidates from which he chooses.

With Rob’s drive and determination, the resources of his partners and staff and an expansion into Europe, RM Auctions quickly carved a reputation as the world’s premier auction house and restoration facility for vintage motorcars. His commitment and efforts have been a major force in creating the multibillion dollar restoration and preservation industry we see today. That business vitality has led to countless jobs for restoration experts and has been instrumental in preserving innumerable classic and vintage cars.

This year’s award was presented at a reunion of previous winners at Bulgari’s private collection during the 2016 Buick Club of America 50th Anniversary Celebration in Allentown, Pennsylvania. The 2016 Nicola Bulgari Award recipient is Rob Myers, the “RM” behind those fabulous auctions. If you’ve ever attended one, you’ve experienced the best the trade has to offer both in presentation and the quality of cars crossing the stage.

I’ve always found it interesting how many highly successful people in the various sectors that make up collector car culture began working in the trenches as hands-on craftsmen. I think it gives them a greater and more seasoned appreciation of automotive heritage. They come at things from the inside. They understand the nuances and notice the details that separate the truly “great” from the “pretty good.”

Once again, our most prominent award has found a worthy recipient.

OPENROAD 5

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

IN THE HEADLIGHTS

Karl Anderson, Chairman Concrete Technology Corporation Tacoma, Washington Neal Arntson, President Albina Fuel Company Vancouver, Washington John Barline, Attorney Harlowe & Falk, LLP Tacoma, Washington Dale Bloomquest, Enthusiast Seattle, Washington Stephen Boone, Enthusiast and Collector Olympia, Washington Nicola Bulgari, Vice Chairman BVLGARI S.p.A. New York, New York Richard (Rick) B. Davis, President Standard Parts Corporation Tacoma, Washington John C. Dimmer, President FIRS Management, LLC Lakewood, Washington Dawn Fisher, CEO MFD Classic Motors Instructor and vintage car driver Traverse City, Michigan Larry Gordon Gordon Trucking Pacific, Washington McKeel Hagerty, CEO Hagerty Traverse City, Michigan

A

merica’s Car Museum is celebrating the

If you love both cars & guitars, you will be able

end of summer with a bash named the

to experience the latest models from Fender, and

“Summer Ender Fender Bender” This incomparable festival will embrace what’s best in the Northwest; great cars, specialty food trucks and live music.

even get a chance to take one home.

ACM members will also be treated to an exclusive showing of the Museum’s latest exhibit celebrating the special collection of this year’s Master Collector.

There will be an organized “Friend N’ Fenders” Club Auto driving tour for those who wish to get out on the road or, you can take your own road trip through history in the Museum’s ten exhibits. We also encourage you to motor down

Don’t let the season fade away, come join the Summer Ender Fender Bender celebration at America’s Car Museum on September 10.

It promises to great fun for the whole family.

in your own collector car for the Cruise-In on the Haub Family Field.

Tom Hedges, Co-owner Hedges Family Estate Seattle, Washington George Ingle, President/General Manager The Ingle Company Tacoma, Washington Doug LeMay, Vice President LeMay Investments LLC Tacoma, Washington Nancy LeMay, CEO LeMay Investments LLC Tacoma, Washington David Lowe Madeira, President & CEO America’s Automotive Trust CEO LeMay– AMERICA’S CAR MUSEUM Tacoma, Washington Keith Martin, Publisher Sports Car Market Portland, Oregon James Gary May, Owner, President Hopewell Land Partners LLC, Winter Haven, Florida B. Corry McFarland, President Cedar Management Company Fife, Washington Paul E. Miller, President/COO LeMay– AMERICA’S CAR MUSEUM Senior Vice President America’s Automotive Trust Tacoma, Washington Michael J. Phillips, Chairman Altaira Wealth Management Geneva, Switzerland Manfred Scharmach, CEO and President Scharmach Enterprises BMW Northwest, Northwest Mini, Seattle Mini, NW Pre-owned Center Fife, Washington Bill Sterud, Vice Chairman Puyallup Tribal Council Tacoma, Washington William T. Weyerhaeuser, Director/Chairman Columbia Bank Tacoma, Washington James M. Will, President Titus-Will Enterprises, Inc. Olympia, Washington

6 OPENROAD

OPENROAD PUBLICATION CREDITS Managing Editor & Head Writer Walt Tomsic, Tomsic Sullivan Design Professor Emeritus at Pacific Lutheran University, Walt is a confirmed “car nut.” He started with a ‘53 Austin-Healey 100 in high school and continued through a procession of Triumphs, an Alfa Romeo, a Shelby GT-350, three ‘60s vintage ‘Pagoda’ SLs, a Beck 356 and a couple of E-types.

His current ride is a 1955 Austin-Healey 100.

Art Direction & Graphic Design Deni Sullivan, Tomsic Sullivan Design Deni has a BFA in graphic design from Pacific Lutheran University and has operated her own design business for over 30 years. Passionate for sports cars, she has owned several throughout the years including a ‘64 TR4 Sebring, a ‘72 TR6, and a 1979 Porsche. Her current ride is an ‘08 Special Edition Miata.

Guest Editor, William Hall America’s Automotive Trust Midwest Representative William Hall is a writer and collector car broker in Elkhart Lake, WI. He has authored numerous blogs on sites such as hemmings.com and classiccars.com. William rode along and covered last winter’s epic The Drive Home from ACM’s campus in Tacoma to the NAIAS in Detroit.

Michael Craft ACM Official Provider Special thanks to Advertising Photographer Michael Craft for creating many of the beautiful images printed in OpenRoad.

MichaelCraftPhotography.com

STEERING COMMITTEE Rod Alberts, Executive Director North American International Auto Show Troy, Michigan Thomas L. Bryant VP/Editor-in-Chief Emeritus Road & Track (retired) Bainbridge, Washington

There is a great line in the movie Annie Hall that is both a toss-off-joke and a painful truth. By way of a breakup line, Alvy tells Annie, “A relationship is like a shark. It has to constantly move forward or it dies. I think what we got on our hands is a dead shark.” It’s basically a funnier version of the old French Foreign Legion “march or die” concept. Things that don’t move, adapt, evolve eventually succumb to the natural process of entropy… just ask a wooly mammoth… if you can find one. The same holds true for institutions and America’s Car Museum has no intention of joining the wooly mammoth.

If you stop and think about it, and to continue the extinction analogy, just what is it that most threatens the future of our beloved collector car culture? Are we going to suddenly run out of vintage and classic vehicles? I don’t see that happening. Are autonomous transport pods going to kill off driver-operated cars?

Sure, in the dreams of ‘technos’ currently asleep in Cupertino. Will the day arrive when every kid will say, “why do I need a car when I have the twenty-second generation smart phone?” I’m still going to go with a “no.” So what is the big threat? My money’s on apathy and inaction. First, you have to care, then you have to get off the dime and do something.

The leadership team that guides this institution cares deeply and they’ve seized the initiative. That initiative is appropriately named “America’s Automotive Trust.”

Its mission is to secure our automotive heritage, now and into the future. To accomplish that goal, AAT will act as a unifying force to combine and focus the resources and expertise of entities linked by this common objective. As currently constituted, AAT is comprised of America’s Car Museum, RPM Foundation (formerly Hagerty Education Program at America’s Car Museum), Club Auto and Concours Club. More may be added as the Trust evolves.

Of particular interest to me, as a former educator, is the component of AAT charged with the transfer of knowledge and skill necessary to keep collector cars running. Each of the letters in “RPM” stands for something that ultimately allows an engine to revolve over the course of a minute. Through restoration, preservation and mentorship, the RPM Foundation is not about to let the care and feeding of the cars we love become a dying art.

There are numerous ways you can support the effort to help secure America’s automotive heritage.

Beginning with the upcoming fall/winter issue, OpenRoad will be providing regular coverage of AAT and its multi-pronged initiatives. And just think, someday, when they drop off that Duesy, or Packard or Stingray for a tune up, your grandson or granddaughter will thank you for making sure there was still a place to take it and a trained mechanic capable of performing the job.

Sandra Button, Chairperson Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance Carmel, California Gill Campbell, CEO Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca Monterey, California John J. Carlson, CEO National Association of Automobile Clubs of Canada Corp.

Belcarra, British Columbia, Canada Robert Falleur, Owner and Collector Bob’s Toys, Rods and Restorations Milwaukie, Oregon Keith Flickinger, Owner Precision Motor Cars Inc. Allentown, Pennsylvania Mark Gessler, President Historic Vehicle Association Potomac, Maryland Gerald Greenfield Automotive Enthusiast Lake Tapps, Washington Peter Hageman, Founder Suite 200 Automobile Collection Santa Barbara, California William Hall, Writer. Car Collector, and Classic Car Broker Milwaukee, Wisconsin Tabetha Hammer, Manager Advocacy & Public Relations Hagerty Traverse City, Michigan Paul Ianuario, Executive Director BMW Museum Reidville, South Carolina Rock Jenkins, Executive State Farm Insurance Tacoma, Washington Al McEwan, Founder Suite 200 Automobile Collection Kirkland, Washington Mark McKee, Chief Gear Head Ace Cafe NA Overland Park, Kansas Glenn Mounger, Former Chairman Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance Bainbridge Island, Washington Michael T. Phillips, Financial Consultant AXA-Advisors Seattle, Washington Candida Romanelli, President Romanelli Event Services Frisco, Texas

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Peter Brock

Car Designer, Writer and Photographer

Thomas L. Bryant

Editor Emeritus, Road & Track

McKeel Hagerty CEO, Hagerty

Sandra Button

Chairman, Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance

Bill Warner

Chairman, Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance

Keith Martin

Publisher, Sports Car Market

Jay Leno Website Host

Collector & Enthusiast

Lyn St. James Racer, Collector & Enthusiast

Subscription to OpenRoad triannual magazine published by LeMay – AMERICA’S CAR MUSEUM® is a benefit of Bronze Key Driver membership and above. LeMay – AMERICA’S CAR MUSEUM is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. A portion of your gift towards membership and sponsorship are tax deductible.

Administration: David Lowe Madeira, President & CEO – America’s Automotive Trust | CEO – America’s Car Museum Paul E. Miller, President & COO – America’s Car Museum | Sr. VP – America’s Automotive Trust Dean Carrell, VP for Institutional Advancement | Keith Flickinger, Curator of the Collection | Scot Keller, Curator of Exhibitry Valerie O’Shea, Executive Assistant to the CEO & Concours Club Manager | Diane Fitzgerald, President – RPM Foundation

Richard Rurak, Retired Grenzebach-Inos Automation Software Inc. Richmond, Virginia Lyn St. James, President/Founder LSJ Enterprises Phoenix, Arizona Bill Warner, Chairman Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance Jacksonville, Florida Todd Wells, General Manager Global Marketing Operations, Microsoft Redmond, Washington John Weymer, Media Relations Puyallup Tribe of Indians Fife, Washington Hans Wurl Vintage Racing Motors, Inc. Sammamish, Washington

Please Address Correspondence to LeMay – AMERICA’S CAR MUSEUM/OpenRoad, 2702 East D Street, Tacoma, WA 98421 Phone: 253.779.8490 Toll Free: 877.902.8490 Fax: 253.779.8499 Website: www.americascarmuseum.org Not all of the automobiles depicted in OpenRoad are part of the ACM Collection. Some of the photographs were chosen in order to illustrate or enliven a featured story while others were selected purely for their artistic merit.

OPENROAD 7

SIGNPOSTS

DOWNTHEROAD

New Festive Event Joins the ACM Late Summer Schedule No doubt by now you’ve noticed the absence of the Pacific Northwest Concours d’ Elegance in ACM’s lineup of summer activities. After careful consideration, we have decided to take a fresh approach to our late summer event schedule. The reasons for this decision are compelling. A world-class concours is an extremely expensive undertaking in terms of staffing and monetary expense while serving a relatively small segment of the enthusiast community. In addition, the past few years have witnessed a proliferation of concours style events nationwide diluting the pool of truly concours-class vehicles available for display. It’s our view, Amelia Island and Pebble Beach will remain the true standard bearers of this exclusive form of automotive presentation and it’s best for us to enhance our partnership with and support for those institutions rather than conduct our own concours.

We’re excited that those energies and resources can now be directed to create a car ‘festival’ —the Summer Ender Fender Bender on September 10! This informal celebration and car show, in partnership with Fender to provide live music, is open to all types of vehicles and promises to appeal to a broad spectrum of enthusiasts and families alike. Additionally, as a ‘festival,’ and in keeping with the mission of America’s Car Museum, it will truly celebrate America’s love affair with the automobile. Mark your calendar for September 10 and join us for the inaugural Summer Ender Fender Bender!

Casino Royale Sponsors, Take a Bow! Another Wheels & Heels Annual Gala, another fabulous night at the Museum.

We couldn’t keep pulling this off year after year without the generous support of our sponsors. Be sure to return the favor with your patronage whenever possible. And be sure to check out the “Casino Royale” photo spread on page 13.

So, without further ado, give a hand to these generous supporters of Wheels & Heels: n Title Sponsor – Emerald Queen Hotel & Casino n Supporting Sponsor – Propel Insurance n Platinum Sponsors – Ascent and U.S. Bank n Gold Sponsor – Titus-Will n Silver Sponsors – Columbia Bank, Hagerty and Key Bank Foundation n Bronze Sponsors – Auto Warehousing, Gateway Capital LLC, Hedges Family Estate, K&H Printing, LeMay Family Collection, Pacific Portfolio Consulting LLC, Puget Sound BMW Centers, Uptown Gig Harbor, Valley Freightliner

ACM Earns Another “Best Museum” Award People know a good thing when they see it and that includes museums. The votes have been tallied for South Sound magazine’s “The Best of the South Sound 2016” and its readers have selected ACM as the best museum in the region. The magazine noted how the Museum’s location features a “picturesque view of the city” while the extensive collection offers “a taste of America’s rich automotive culture.” By the way, if after visiting ACM, you feel the need to belt out a tune, that classic piece of Tacoma roadside Americana, Bob’s Java Jive, was voted “Best Karaoke.” Just sayin!

8 OPENROAD

August 8-12 Summer Camp “High Speed Fun” Session 2 Aug. 11, Sept. 8, Oct. 13, Nov. 10, Dec. 8 Race Night at ACM August 11, September 8, October 13 Cruise-In at ACM August 13 Cars & Cigars Aug. 20, Sept. 17, Nov. 19, Dec. 17 Family STEM Day August 23, September 24 Take A Spin August 25 Club Auto Night Out August 27 Drive-In Movie Series September 4 Member Double Discount Day Sept. 6, Oct. 4, Nov. 1, Dec. 6 If Cars Could Talk September 10 Summer Ender Fender Bender • Friends n’ Fenders Drive • Cruise-In at ACM • Master Collector Exhibit Opens September 11 Concours Club Red Mountain/Walla Walla Driving Tripx September 17 Hagerty Driving Experience September 19 - October 2 Club Auto Wine & Wheels Tour Lake Chelan, Washington October 13 Educator Night at the Museum Tacoma Art Museum November 1 - 30 Drive Down Hunger See “Events” link at www.americascarmuseum.org.

All events at ACM Campus unless otherwise noted Member Benefit/Discount Applies

ROADSIDEASSISTANCE Ashley Bice Marketing & Communications Manager Renee Crist Collection Manager Laurie Humphrey Annual Giving & Membership Manager Jeff Keys Guest Services Manager Debbie Kray Education Manager Ann Sweeney Private Event & Sales Coordinator Kristen Wells Office & Club Auto Coordinator Contact ACM Administrative Office 253-779-8490 or info@americascarmuseum.org

RECENTLY READ

ACMSTORE

It’

s Summertime, Summertime

Sum-sum-summertime!

Time to check out the new arrivals!

Z

C

heck out heck out these two these recentlytwo read

recently read books dealing the bookswith about world of the classic era automobile car racing

This

edition of

Recently Read

brings forward two

books that occupy opposite ends of the historical spectrum.

On

the

one

hand,

we

find

‘macro’

history… big time corporate stuff from the early years of the automobile in

America. On

the other,

we have ‘micro’ history… personal stories of the one car no one ever forgets.

is engrossing in its own way.

Each Put

of these books

together, they

demonstrate the full impact of the automobile… on both a national and an individual level.

Car Crazy – by G. Wayne Miller

n “Obsessive Classic Car Disorder” T-shirt for that car enthusiast who likes to take things to the next level! ACM Member $22.49 n A great selection of exciting book titles in the ACM library featuring auto aficionados such as James Dean, Paul Newman and The STIG! $22.95-$45.00, members always receive 10% off! n A new line of Die Cast collectibles including models such as the 1955 Pontiac Star Chief!

ACM Member $13.49

Triple-Hot Summer SALE! Take $15 off any ACM branded travel Items including; Car Blankets, I-Pad/Tablet Pouches and Water-proof Back Packs, with any purchase while supplies last! (up to a $40 value)

The subtitle pretty much says it all, “The battle for supremacy between Ford and Olds and the dawn of the automobile age.” The book traces the period between the introduction of the first American built automobile in 1893 through 1908 when General Motors was founded and the Ford Model T first hit the road. It’s an entertaining look at the cutthroat business climate of the time, the wacko world of early marketing and promotional stunts and the courtroom drama that would shape the industry going forward. It’s a good read!

My First Car – by Matt Stone I’ve forgotten most of the places I’ve lived, half the people I’ve known and where I last put my glasses. What I will never forget is where I was when Kennedy was shot, when Neil Armstrong put his foot on the moon… and my first car.

OpenRoad guest editorial contributor Matt Stone has put together a wonderful compendium of stories that illustrate just how powerful the “first car” is in people’s lives. You’ll be surprised at the scope of personalities cited… some are predictable like Leno, Lutz, Shelby and Andretti. Others come at you out of left field like Dan Ackroyd, John McEnroe and Ray “Boom Boom” Mancini.

Fascinating stuff!

OPENROAD 9

By David Lowe Madeira President & CEO, America’s Automotive Trust

INTRODUCING AMERICA’S

AAT AUTOMOTIVE

TRUST “SCOPE

WHEN OF PURPOSE”

TRANSCENDS “PLACE”

A a member of America’s Car Museum, you are, by nature, an active participant in the life and evolution of the Museum. It is thus my expressed duty and pleasure to introduce you to an important initiative we’ve recently undertaken. It’s called “America’s Automotive Trust” (AAT) and it has been created specifically to ensure future generations have the same opportunity as we to experience the enjoyment of the car and the camaraderie of the collector car community.

Here is a run down of what the Trust is and how it works.

AAT: What is it?

At its Annual Meeting in Scottsdale this past January, ACM’s Board re-organized the institution under the name America’s Automotive Trust. In strict legal terms, America’s Automotive Trust is a 501C3 not-for-profit organization, the sole purpose of which is to secure America’s automotive heritage—now and into the future. AAT unites a number of distinct entities and focuses their combined efforts and resources to better achieve that common goal.

10 OPENROAD

Repository for America’s automotive treasures, a gathering place for enthusiasts and the public to enjoy events based on automotive culture, educational programs for all ages and changing exhibitions and events.

Providing for the transfer of knowledge to the next generation in the applied arts so that young people may find rewarding careers in automotive and wooden boat restoration and preservation and the skills necessary for a vibrant future for collector communities

are not lost.

The entity which provides enthusiasts and collectors the opportunity to drive their cars —collectible and modern— and enjoy the camaraderie of others in auto-related activities. In doing so, it promotes our vision to secure America’s automotive heritage to the broader public.

An organization of those whose philanthropic support enables AAT and its member entities to fulfill our vision.

Members are asked to encourage others of means and influence to join the movement to secure America’s automotive heritage. Club events, gatherings and ‘summits’ are designed to promote our mission.

America’s Automotive Trust will work to make certain future generations will have the opportunity to experience and enjoy magnficent heritage classics such as this 1939 Packard donated by AAT Board member Nicola Bulgari.

Photo by Michael Craft

Continued page 12 OPENROAD 11

Why the change, and why now?

When America’s Car Museum first entered the scene, its stated mission was to celebrate America’s love affair with the automobile. And we certainly achieved that goal quickly and with striking success.

It was also always our goal to be distinct from traditional museums and to have a significant impact for the benefit of the collector and enthusiast communities.

Over time, that mission matured and expanded to include a wide range of essential goals and objectives, not the least of which are educational initiatives and an increasing concern for the longterm sustainability of America’s automotive heritage. In short, it has become a case of our scope of purpose expanding well beyond a specific place—the ACM campus.

We have now entered, and engaged with, a much wider social and cultural arena.

As to why now, if ever there was a “hot iron” in need of striking, it’s now. It’s no secret automotive culture, and especially collector car culture, has reached a crucial point in its history. Increasingly strict CAFE mileage standards, “driverless-cars,” Uber and high-speed pneumatic transport tubes may be getting all the media hype, but the real threat to the continued enjoyment of driving the kinds of cars we love lies elsewhere. There will always be a collector car enthusiast community. What there may not be is the trained support structure needed to restore, maintain and keep those cars on the road.

Our national system of education, with its emphasis on “college-prep” curricula, neglects the applied arts, crafts and trades.

Young people are counseled to avoid the “manual arts” and to seek careers of a more “lucrative” and “prestigious” nature.

This misguided notion ignores the fact that rewarding careers, both in terms of personal satisfaction and monetary gain, continue to exist in the technical sector. The restoration, preservation and maintenance of vintage vehicles, boats and aircraft is a viable, attractive and expanding career path and one worthy of encouragement and material support.

America’s Automotive Trust will ensure our automotive legacy does not languish due to neglect but rather, is celebrated and nourished. AAT will further ensure the skills and knowledge needed to secure the future of the enthusiast community are transferred to the next generation. Being at the center of a movement to attain these objectives is THE defining mission of America’s Automotive Trust.

How does this affect

you as a member of

America’s Car Museum?

I doubt you will notice any difference in your membership experience. ACM will continue to be the lively and innovative place you’ve come to know and enjoy. We will continue to host fun events, offer stimulating educational programs and debut engaging exhibits. If anything, your membership has become enhanced. You are now part of a larger movement with a clear, crucial and attainable mission… to secure America’s automotive heritage.

We’ll make sure to keep you well informed as we begin to put the pieces in place. Beginning with the upcoming fall/winter issue, OpenRoad will become a source for information about the Trust and its wide ranging activities. I look forward to sharing this exciting journey with you.

12 OPENROAD

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Photos by Phototainment

Visit americascarmuseum.org for information and details

ON EXHIBIT

Cars cycle in and out of the exhibits.

Actual vehicles on display may vary.

FROM AESTHETICALLY STUNNING CLASSICS TO BRUTALLY EFFICIENT TRACK CARS

W

orking vehicles have always played a pivotal

role in our nation’s history. These rugged, purpose-built, four-wheel work-horses are inseparably connected to the American experience and the burgeoning economic vitality of the country. With critical application in every industrial sector, they evolved dramatically during the first decades of the last century.

The Tools of the Trade Exhibit at ACM will tell the story of the steadfast work vehicles that formed the backbone of American commerce in the first half of the 20th century.

Rough, rugged and no-nonsense, the trucks and specialty vehicles from this period put utility squarely ahead of creature comforts in their pursuit to get the job done.

The exhibit will provide viewers a fascinating look at the culture of the time as told through the lens of the unique vehicles on display… trucks that span the first fifty years of the twentieth century in America.

Peter Gleeson Once a year, ACM presents the Master Collectors exhibit to honor a leading collector and devoted enthusiast whose passion for cars knows no bounds. A Master Collector’s devotion to fine automobiles leads them to preserve and protect automotive heritage through restoring and maintaining historically significant vehicles.

The 2016 Master Collectors exhibit honors a prominent Washington collector, Peter Gleeson, for his dedication to preserving, restoring, and generously sharing his expertise

about some of the world’s finest automobiles. Peter’s collection of rare, diverse and historically significant automobiles rivals the best.

To learn more about one of the cars in Peter’s collection, a 1971 BMW Alpina CSL, see the AutoBiography article beginning on page 20.

The Master Collectors exhibit featuring the Gleeson Collection opens September 10th.

Exhibit scheduled to open November 5, 2016 Photo by Wallflower Photography

Tools of the Trade – Power Powering the Working Class Among the trucks on view you’ll find: 1912 High Wheel International Harvester 1920 Packard 3-Ton Grocer’s Truck 1932 Chevrolet Huckster 1940 Chevrolet Panel Paddy wagon 1947 Ford Railway Express

OPENROAD 15

FUEL FOR THE FUTURE Special Friends

John Hogan is truly a special friend of the America’s Car Museum.

Born in Puyallup in 1966, John grew up admiring Detroit muscle and although he loves European exotics, his emotions resonate most strongly with American built cars. When John was five, he remembers seeing a Panther Pink 1970 Dodge Challenger T/A in his family’s grocery store parking lot.

He was simply awestruck. Now at age 50, Hogan has been fortunate enough to own many of the cars he dreamed of as a kid…and yes, you can bet there is an authentic pink Challenger T/A in his collection.

n John Hogan, Seattle, WA Commercial construction and development throughout the Puget Sound area.

16 OPENROAD

F

or years I was aware of Harold and Nancy’s collection. I knew about Harold’s zany road trips to locate and buy cars and I’ve experienced some wild car hunting adventures myself. The way Harold viewed cars aligns with my views of looking at cars as a reflection of the era when they were built rather than just beauty and design.

Ten years ago, Dominic Dobson’s son Aidan and my son Andrew were in the same Cub Scout den allowing us adults time to talk about the construction of America’s Car Museum.

As a businessman within the community where ACM is located, I’m really proud to be associated with such an important institution. My only regret is not getting involved earlier.

Nancy LeMay has earned a ton of respect among the business community through her financial contributions to ensure success at all levels. All of those early sacrifices and commitments are now paying off. ACM has become an undisputed asset to Tacoma and the global car community.

What I find so attractive about cars is that I am constantly discovering the many ways and levels on which to appreciate them. It is really a true sense of discovery and something ACM does very effectively. The exhibits are always changing and the cars on display come from a variety of sources across the country in addition to the LeMay Collection. The exhibits go beyond the individual make or model and extend into society at large in order to tell a story. Over the last couple of years the Ford F Series, Volkswagen and Route 66 Exhibits revealed the connection between cars and culture. They represented an engaging way for both kids and adults to learn! Not many museums pull that off so effectively and it makes me excited to see what’s on tap for future exhibits. If I have a car that can add to the ‘story line’ of a particular exhibit, I will certainly offer to loan it. ACM can use any car in my collection at any time and the three I’ve placed in previous exhibits have all been returned to me looking more detailed than when loaned!

Some people look at cars as art and that is great. Others see designers like Bertone, Virgil Exner, Pininfarina, Figoni and Falaschi as the artists… and that’s cool too. Certain cars should be viewed as art to fully appreciate them. I own a couple hot rods which offer a whole different level of interpretive artistry as performed by their builders. Like most people (including Harold), I view cars as a reflection of society at the time they were built and that is where I fully align with the mission and focus of ACM. David Madeira has done a great job of lacing a meaningful educational component into the fabric of the Museum. Would the most sought after paintings in the world hold the same value they do today if art history never existed in high schools or colleges? Absolutely not!

Likewise, if future generations do not have skills and knowledge passed on to them from institutions and mentors, that knowledge would recede and eventually disappear. America’s Car Museum is playing an increasingly important role in keeping automotive culture alive and I’m proud to play a part in that.

FUEL FOR THOUGHT

The Role For Life Insurance in Your Estate Plan - Part Two By the Center for Wealth Impact

Ascent Private Capital Management of U.S. Bank

LIFE INSURANCE IS OFTEN NECESSARY TO SUPPORT THE DECEASED’S FAMILY OR PROVIDE LIQUIDITY. YOU MUST DETERMINE NOT ONLY THE TYPE AND AMOUNT OF COVERAGE YOU NEED, BUT ALSO WHO SHOULD OWN INSURANCE ON YOUR LIFE TO BEST MEET YOUR ESTATE PLANNING GOALS.

Life Insurance This material is provided for education and illustrative purposes only and does not guarantee the success of any strategy or recommendation.

This material is not intended to constitute tax or legal advice.

Each individual’s tax and financial situation is unique. Individuals should consult their tax and/or legal advisors for information concerning their unique situation.

This material is based on data obtained from sources we consider to be reliable. Effort has been made to ensure that the material presented is accurate at the time of publication, although this material does not purport to be a complete explanation of the tax laws or strategies available.

In part two of this two-part series, we will explore who should own insurance on your life to best meet your estate planning goals.

If you own life insurance policies at death, the proceeds will be included in your your estate and subject to federal (and possibly state) estate taxes. Ownership is usually determined by several factors, including who has the right to name the beneficiaries of the proceeds.

To choose the best owner, consider why you want the insurance, such as to replace income, provide liquidity or transfer wealth to your heirs. You must also determine the importance of tax implications, control, flexibility, and ease and costs of administration.

You or your spouse. Ownership by you or your spouse generally works best when your combined assets, including insurance, don’t place either of your estates into a taxable situation. There are several benefits to your ownership, primarily relating to flexibility and control.

The biggest drawback to ownership by you or your spouse is that, on the death of the surviving spouse (assuming proceeds were initially paid to the spouse), the insurance proceeds could be subject to federal (and possibly state) estate taxes, depending on the size of the estate and the tax laws in effect at the survivor’s death.

Your children. Ownership by your children works best when your primary goal is to pass wealth to them. On the plus side, proceeds aren’t subject to estate tax on your or your spouse’s death, and your children receive all of the proceeds tax-free.

The key disadvantage is that policy proceeds are paid to your children outright. This may not be in accordance with your general estate plan objectives and may be especially problematic if a child isn’t financially responsible.

For assistance with questions, please contact AAT V.P. for Institutional Advancement Dean Carrell at 243.683.3943 or dean.carrell@americasautomotivetrust.org.

OPENROAD 17

BY WALT TOMSIC MANAGING EDITOR, OPENROAD

ROAD WELL TAKEN Great American Road Trips

A Circle Loop of San Juan Island Start: Friday Harbor, San Juan Island Finish: Friday Harbor, San Juan Island Distance: 30 miles +/- (varies as to route) Time Required: Plan on spending the day

As John Cleese of Monty Python used to say, “And now for something completely different.”

In this edition of Road Well Taken we’re going to introduce you to one of our favorite offthe-beaten-path driving adventures… or more precisely, “riding” adventures. If you’ve never done this, book your passage now. You won’t regret it. It’s a circumnavigation of San Juan Island by—depending on your preference—scooter, electric bike, moped or scoot coupe.

When we did it a few years ago it was by moped so I don’t even know what a scoot coupe is, but it sounds very cool. Plan on spending the whole day rather than trying to recreate the Isle of Man TT… on a moped.

THE TRIP By whatever means you deem best, get to Friday Harbor on San Juan Island. You can take a Washington State Ferry out of Anacortes or fly in via Kenmore Air from Seattle. Once in Friday Harbor, and providing you haven’t brought your own wheels, make your way to Susie’s Mopeds.

They’ve been there since 1986, which makes them an island fixture. Just ask a local for directions. Why Susie’s? Personal experience… we found them friendly and knowledgeable and the rentals performed perfectly. They’ll provide detailed directions, maps and, if need be, a little basic instruction.

Above: Three orca pods call these waters home Below: A Washington State Ferry makes port in Friday Harbor Far Right: Lighthouse at Lime Kiln Point State Park

18 OPENROAD

Starting off, point your ride south out of Friday Harbor and head down island for six miles to American Camp where you can learn about the infamous “Pig War,” a boundary dispute shoving match with the British. Another two miles will get you to South Beach and its stunning views of the Olympic Mountains.

Mount up and retrace your route until you see a sign for False Bay Drive. Hang a left and enjoy some of the prettiest scenery on San Juan Island. Turn left on Bailer Hill Road and make your way to Whale Watch Park, the most popular spot on the island. Summer is the best time to catch sight of one of the three Orca pods that call these waters home. If you brought a picnic, this is a good place to chow down. And yes, there are “facilities.” Note of caution, north out of Whale Watch Park the road climbs steeply so exercise some prudence.

From here, the journey back to Friday Harbor is peppered with one tourist-worthy stop after another; San Juan County Park, the romantically named “Smallpox Bay,” British Camp (yes, they had a camp too), Westcott Bay Oyster Farm, Roche Harbor, Mona the Camel (and yes, there is a Mona the Camel), San Juan Vineyards and finally… the picturesque village of Friday Harbor. Even if you get a little lost it’s no big deal. After all, it is an island, just manage to keep the water on your left—or right, and you’ll eventually find your way back.

Lime Kiln Point St. Park

Now for the burning question… is there now or has there ever been… a Susie? Yes!

TRIP TIPS The San Juan Islands are a must do summer get away destination. Visit the Washington State Ferries website for schedules and reservations. If you plan on flying in, check with Kenmore Air out of Seattle.

As to where to eat and stay, here is what the locals recommend most often. For a good, old-fashioned diner-style breakfast, try the Hungry Clam. The favorite choice for lunch by a wide margin of those canvased, the Madrona Grill at Roche Harbor Resort. When asked about dinner, the Cask and Schooner is mentioned most often.

We also asked about good places to stay. At the economical end of the scale (less than $100 per night), the Orca Inn drew raves despite its “very small rooms.” On the plus side, it was rated “extremely clean” with a friendly staff. For the high-end experience there were lots of options mentioned. The Island Inn was mentioned most often.

We do not request, nor do we receive, any compensation for the previously noted trip tips.

OPENROAD 19

A U T O B I O G R A P H Y

1971 BMW Alpina CSL

DAS “BIMMER” LICHT und SCHNELL Like Sharper Image, Flashdance legwarmers and that noxious weed—anointed nouvelle cuisine— arugula, certain things will always be emotionally embedded in the 1970s and 80s. In the same way most architects seemed to be driving a Saab, “Bimmers” (not pronounced like “Beam me up Scotty” – see Auto Trivia on pg. 23) were considered de rigueur for every young-upwardlymobile-urban-professional. This in no way is a knock on the car… quite the reverse. After all, that stuff in the Sharper Image catalog was really pretty cool… and so too were—and still are—BMWs.

If BMW is the ultimate driving machine, this may well be the ultimate BMW.

Words by Walt Tomsic | Photographs by Michael Craft

B

efore BMW became the BMW we know today, it endured a business ancestry more convoluted

than a Prussian hedge-maze. The earliest multisyllabic monikers fairly flow off the Teutonic tongue…

“Flugmaschinenfabrik, Flugzeugwerke, Rapp Motorenwerke.”

The “flug” part of all that translates as “flight” and speaks to the company’s progenitor’s ties to the aircraft industry.

It’s thus not surprising BMW engines powered fighter aircraft in both world wars. On March 7, 1916 Rapp Motorenwerke became Bayerische Motoren Werke or, in the King’s English, “Bavarian Motor Works.”

Needless to say, BMW, along with its other Germanic siblings in the automotive industry, navigated a tortured path during and after WWII. The history of those times is both fascinating and worthy of volumes… much more so than we have room for here. For our purposes, we’ll jump ahead to the point in time at which BMW became relevant in the American marketplace… the late 1960s. Granted, Elvis drove the first really attractive BMW while serving his army duty in Germany, the handsome 507. But I maintain the real “eureka moment” came via the April 1968 issue of Car & Driver magazine. It was a road test of the BMW 2002 penned by David E. Davis. The print ink might as well have been purple as D.E.D. waxed rhapsodic about the car’s near ‘Siegfriedean’ prowess.

My personal history with BMW began with that very same article. I was teaching at a small private university in Seattle when I read the piece and was moved to check out the car.

What followed was a terrifying warp-drive blast through Seattle’s Capitol Hill/Volunteer Park District in a 1600 (no 2002s were available) driven by a psycho-maniacal salesman wearing— and I’m not making this up—plaid sansabelt slacks, pink banlon polo shirt, white patent leather loafers and a disturbingly demonic smirk. I can still smell the odor of incandescent brake pads and smoldering tire rubber. If that car yet exists, the indentions made by my bloodless, grip-of-death fingers must still blemish the dash.

The subject of our story is the achingly beautiful BMW 3.0CSL, or “E9” in company parlance. Why the ache? One need only look at the car’s perfect proportions in profile view. Notice the soaring expanse of glass supported by pencil thin A and B pillars—a veritable arboretum compared to the bunker slits for windows on many current cars. The delicately arched waistline is low… elbow resting on the windowsill low. Try that on today’s cars and risk a torn rotator cuff. And then there’s that inverted angle on the nose and rear, a design element that further lightens the sense of mass and makes the car almost appear to be slightly levitating.

Continued page 22

“The earliest multi-syllabic monikers fairly flow off the Teutonic tongue…

“Flugmaschinenfabrik, Flugzeugwerke, Rapp Motorenwerke.”

OPENROAD 21

Continued from page 21 Which brings us to our subject car, a 1971 BMW Alpina CSL. We’ll let the car’s owner “Master Collector” Peter Gleeson fill in the details.

“This car is an Alpina CSL which takes a little explaining because there are different grades of “Alpina” CSLs and many different CSLs. This particular car was manufactured on December 10, 1971, which makes it an extremely early version of the first 169 Carb CSLs, the lightest and purest of all. They possessed no creature comforts, no power windows, power steering or steel bumpers.

Of the first 169, many have either been destroyed in racing or have simply disintegrated due to the lack of any undercarriage sealing, a weight saving measure along with thinner gauge steel. I would guess the highest survival rate to be only about 50% and that is being seriously optimistic. CSLs also had aluminum hoods, trunk lids, door skins and thinner glass. In their purest form—again, the first 169— they featured Lexan (plastic) rear and rear quarter windows.

The most important Alpina CSLs are of course the ones originally delivered to Alpina. This is not one of those cars. It was bought new as a CSL and then roughly a year later sent to Alpina for conversion to what was designated as the B2-S. At the time, the car was owned

by Ben Huisman, a Dutch racer and team owner. Mr. Huisman kept the car and drove it for many years before selling his whole collection to a fellow Dutch collector some fifteen years ago. The sale included a number of significant BMW racecars. In 2012, I was able to arrange a deal for this very special Alpina CSL B2-S and all the racecars, a purchase I’ve never regretted.”

No. Produced: 169 (Carburetted CSLs) Engine:

B2S, straight six – 250BHP 3.0 liter (2,985cc)

Carburetors: Triple twin choke

side draft Webber Transmission: ZF 4-speed race gearbox

Brakes: F/R Ventilated discs Steering:

Worm & roller

Dimensions:

Wheelbase – 103.3” L – 182.3”/ W – 68.1”/ H – 53.9” Ground clearance – 5.5” Weight – 2,568 lbs.

Fuel capacity – 18.5 U.S. gal.

*Specification data can, and often does, vary from source to source. When in doubt, we use those most often cited.

22 OPENROAD

A U T O B I O G R A P H Y

is the derivation of the BMW logo? Evidently the commonly held belief that the image represents a spinning propeller is more anecdotal conjecture than fact. No less an authority than the BMW Museum in Munich has put the myth to rest. The logo, in fact, represents the blue and white colors of the Free State of Bavaria.

n The evolution of BMW design from appalling to appealing resulted from the combined efforts of an international group of designers.

It began in the 1950s with Germans Wilhelm Hofmeister and Albrecht von Goertz who penned the stunning 507, continued into the 1960s with Italian Giovanni Michelotti and finally, Frenchman Paul Bracq in the early 1970s. Two of BMW’s stylistic touchstones have remained constant throughout the years, Hofmeister’s “kink” at the base of the C pillar and the “double-kidney” grill.

n Whether to “bimmer” or

n The “L” in CSL stands

MOTO TRIVIA

n What

to “beemer”... depends on to what you are refering. “Bimmer” is slang for a BMW car while “beemer” denotes one of the company’s motorcycles. n BMW launched the compact 1500 sedan at the 1961 Frankfurt Motor Show. It was the first BMW to feature the “Hofmeister kink,” a design element that has been a BMW hallmark eversince. n So, if the CS is so gorgeous why don’t cars look like this now? It’s

a little thing called “occupant crash survivability.” Those high waist doors on new cars allow space for airbags and additional side impact protection. Current thick roof pillars provide rollover strength. Today’s upside down drop test would splinter those delicate pillars and transform the CS into the automotive equivalent of a Bavarian potato pancake. Modern bumpers and front facias are designed so as not to skewer pedestrians. In short, the BMW 3.0CS is a car that could not exist in today’s highly regulated world. We’ll just have to make do with admiring surviving examples of the original.

for “licht” (or “light” in English). The car in weighs about 440 pounds lighter than an equivalent CS. Special thanks to Peter Gleeson for allowing us to feature his rare and beautiful “Golf Yellow” 1971 BMW Alpina CSL. You will find additional information on Peter and his collection in the On Exhibit section on page 15.

“Bimmer” is slang for a BMW car while “beemer” denotes one of the company’s motorcycles.

Michael Craft, an ACM Official Provider, created these striking photographs. To see more of his work visit www.michaelcraftphotography.com

Inverse angle on front and rear, delicately arched waistline, tall greenhouse and thin roof pillars all contribute to the car’s sense of “lightness, almost as if it’s floating just off the pavement. It’s why this, the E9 series BMW, has made so many automotive designer’s lists of the top ten most beautiful cars ever made.

GUEST EDITORIAL

Racing Home - Elkhart Lake

By William Hall

As the Club Auto presence grows in the Midwest, we look at one of the premier motorsports destinations in the country, Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, home to the world-famous Road America racetrack and one of the original road race towns in the U.S.

W

hen the Greatest Generation returned home from war in Europe, they brought with them an admiration for the small, nimble sports cars they’d encountered there. Fueled by post-war prosperity, America became the largest customer for famous marques like MG, Jaguar, Triumph, Alfa Romeo, Maserati and Ferrari. As interest increased, it was only natural that the desire to compete through racing would soon follow.

But where? The old, famous oval and dirt tracks did not suit these high-revving, manoeuvrable vehicles. In 1949, a few enthusiastic members of the Chicago Region of the Sports Car Club of America set out to find a place to stage the first European-style road race in the Midwest. They conducted their search in a light aircraft, and soon discovered the winding roads and glaciated hills known as the Kettle Moraine near the little village of Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin.

Elkhart Lake was the northernmost extension of the Chicago rail line, an hour due north of Milwaukee and was a Victorian-era resort town complete with opulent palm gardens, bandshells and even a horseracing track. In an effort to attract resorters in the 1920’s, the town became known for its gambling and speakeasies which openly skirted Prohibition. Gambling became so pervasive that residents, eager to collect revenue from tourists, featured slot machines in their homes. By 1946 the party was over. Enforcing new legislation, police cracked down on the illegal wagering, seized the slot machines and roulette wheels and dumped them in the deep lake that shares the town’s name.

Keen to find a new attraction for tourists, the village fathers were all ears when SCCA members suggested a new road racing event.

A date for the inaugural race was picked—July 23, 1950—and a committee was formed to make the arrangements. Although the initial feature race attracted only nineteen entrants and an estimated 1,500 spectators, the fuse was lit; Elkhart Lake would forever be associated with motorsports.

24 OPENROAD

R

acing on public roads, however, became untenable due to its inherent danger to participants and spectators. Tragic deaths in Watkins Glen, New York, weighed heavily on the minds of Elkhart Lake’s race committee and they initiated an effort to construct a purpose-built racing facility. The result was the 4-mile Road America racetrack which opened in September of 1955. The design proved enduring; the original course still accommodates the incredible speeds of today’s superbikes, NASCAR and Indy Cars and remains a driver and fan favorite.

Not to be missed is the quaint village itself. True to its origins, it remains an elegant yet relaxing resort town, with top-notch lodging, spas, and nationally-recognized restaurants. Siebkens Stop-Inn Tavern, a famous watering hole on the race circuit, celebrates its 100th anniversary this summer. Gessert’s ice cream parlor is still a top-down, Sunday-drive destination. The Victorian Village Tiki Bar is where vacationers and locals gather to regale in stories of the day’s racing on a deck overlooking the clear lake.

With its small-town America backdrop, Elkhart Lake is a popular destination for classic motorcycle and car club national conventions, rallies and reunions. The Chrysler 300 Club will host its Fall National Meet here September 21-25, 2016. A visit to this scenic car culture and racing-rich region should be on every automobile enthusiast’s bucket list.

William Hall is a writer and collector car broker in Elkhart Lake, WI and is the Midwest Representative for America’s Automotive Trust.

Top: Crowds line the streets for a police-escorted parade of race cars during the summer vintage races. Photo by Joe Golichnik Above: Racers roar by the Start/Finish line at the town Feed Mill in the 1951 Road Race. Photo courtesy of Sheboygan County Historical Society.

OPENROAD 25

MEMBERSHIP Members Drive AMERICA’S CAR MUSEUM

By Laurie Humphrey, Annual Giving & Membership Manager Kristen Wells, Club Auto Coordinator

DRIVER & KEY LEVEL MEMBERSHIP: If you are reading this, you are one of many loyal ACM members, and we are grateful to you for your continued support. Thank you for joining, renewing and upgrading your membership over the years. In addition to offering a myriad of benefits at each membership level, memberships help enable ACM to offer free community programming like our popular CruiseIn at ACM and Drive-In Movie series.

Did you know that you may be eligible to stretch your membership gift through a company match? Many companies match all or a portion of your donation and some will make a contribution to ACM if you are a Museum volunteer. To learn about your employer’s offerings, check with your Human Resources Department.

Membership has its perks!

Member Preview, BMW Exhibit

Need a gift for a special occasion? ACM memberships make a great, lasting gift. Think about giving family members, friends and coworkers the gift of membership. We have a membership level suitable for every need and each membership includes unlimited Museum admission for a year.

Please contact the Annual Giving and Membership Manager, Laurie Humphrey, at laurie.humphrey@americascarmuseum.org or 253.683.3952 to renew, upgrade or to give a gift of membership or with any questions you may have abut ACM membership.

Club Auto Shine n’ Social

Club Auto is not a location but rather a movement of likeminded individuals meeting and socializing with fellow car enthusiasts. Membership in Club Auto includes access to a fun and vibrant calendar of events.

Upcoming Club Auto Tacoma events include a Friend ‘N Fenders Drive on Saturday, September 10 and the popular Wine & Wheels Tour to Lake Chelan from September 29 – October 2.

For more information about Club Auto membership and events contact the Club Auto Coordinator, Kristen Wells at kirsten.wells@americascarmuseum or 253.683.3955.

Club Auto Mt. Rainier Drive 26 OPENROAD

EDUCATION AT ACM Where learning is more like recess...fun!

By Debbie Kray, ACM Education Manager

A

Operation SPARK

CM’s Museum Education program is on a mission to spark lifelong learning. Just as the automobile introduced new freedom and mobility to our society, ACM offers all ages opportunities to ignite their own learning journey. Be inspired at If Cars Could Talk, a lunch and lecture, on the first Tuesday of each month. Participate in our Family STEM Day on the third Saturday of each month. Bring a group of students or scouts for an educational tour, workshop, or merit badge program. Enjoy fun and interesting hands-on activities in our Family Zone. We have the perfect vehicle to inspire family, friends, students... and you!

By providing a spark to engage visitors with real life experiences through the automobile, we aim to build 21st century critical thinking skills and make learning FUN. ACM is particularly committed to making this opportunity available to students of all ages in order to fuel their interest in lifelong learning. We offer scholarships and reduced rates to educational groups along with resources to support integration and standards whereever your learning journey takes you; the classroom, your home, a club or on the road.

At ACM, we’re proud of the growth of our educational programs. Since the opening of the Museum we’ve served over 150,000 participants through our free or reduced rate learning opportunities and over 4,500 through our scholarship programs. While the Museum serves a national audience, these scholarship programs make sure those in our region least able to attend may do so. Spread the word and encourage educators, families and friends to take advantage of these offerings.

You never know what pursuits a SPARK might ignite. Together we may all kindle a quest for learning and a passion to preserve America’s automotive heritage.

Visit americascarmuseum.org under LEARN for more information or share your ideas at education@americascarmuseum.org.

OPENROAD 27

RPM FOUNDATION New Name... Same Vital Mission

By Diane Fitzgerald,

H

ere’s a sobering thought: imagine if you will, you’re an equestrian and suddenly everyone who knew how to make saddles and tack had just disappeared. Or what if all the schools teaching digital technology closed because new students had stopped enrolling. In a few years there would be no one who knew how to reboot a crashed computer.

Ludicrous? Probably in the examples cited, but what about vintage collector vehicles… or classic wooden boats for that matter? The savvy needed to keep these treasured pieces of history functioning might actually be at risk.

I truly believe there will always be collector car and boat enthusiast communities. But unless something is done now, there may not be the trained support structure necessary to restore, maintain and keep those cars and boats functioning. Fortunately something is being done.

The RPM Foundation has been formed specifically in response to this pressing need.

The RPM Foundation is actively developing and supporting programs designed to transfer the skills and knowledge necessary for the restoration and preservation of collector cars and boats. Further, it provides directed mentoring and grants to educational institutions for scholarships, internships and apprenticeships for young people whose career goals lie in the applied arts.

The initiative to secure a future for restoration and preservation began in 2005 through the vision of Hagerty. You followed its progress and accomplishments in OpenRoad under the banner of the Hagerty Education Program at America’s Car Museum (HEP). As was the prior

You can be a part of the movement to secure a future for America’s automotive heritage… and that includes classic boats as well. To learn how you can be an active participant visit www.rpm.foundation

President, RPM Foundation

case, the RPM Foundation will continue—and expand—the work of HEP to accelerate the growth of the next generation of automotive and classic boat restoration and preservation craftsmen—and women through formal training and mentorship.

There are two possible scenarios that could describe the future of collector vehicle culture. In one, these magnificent cars and boats will exist only in static display behind velvet ropes. In the other, they will continue to be enjoyed as they were intended... on the road and on the water.

The net effect of the RPM’s efforts will be to make sure when your children—or their children—take that cherished classic in for service, there will be a place to take it and a person there with the skills and knowledge necessary to do the job. When that day comes, the mission of the RPM Foundation will have been achieved.

Preferred Providers

Puget Sound BMW Centers

Providers Ace Cafe NA

Chateau Ste. Michelle

Heritage Distillery

RM Auctions

Alvin Goldfarb Jeweller

Chihuly Workshop

Hyman Ltd. Classic Cars

Rodda Paint Company

Art Morrison Enterprises

Concorso Italiano

J&L Fabricating

Simpson Investment Co.

Athletic Awards

Collectors’ Car Garage

South Sound Motorcycles

Audi of America

Custom Clear Bra

Kansas City Automotive Museum

Auto Warehousing

DCG ONE

BF Goodrich Tires/ Michelin North America

Fender

Butler Valet CCCA Pacific Northwest Region

Fresh Northwest Design Gallopin’ Gerties Model A Club Hendrick Motorsports Heritage Bank

Key Bank

The Arizona 500

Lincoln of Troy

Titus-Will Chevrolet, Buick, GMC & Cadillac

NW Chevy Dealers

Valley Freightliner

Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance

Xpel

Porsche Club of America Pacific NW Region

Thank You to all our Current Sponsors

LeMay-America’s Car Museum: 2702 East D Street, Tacoma, Washington 98421 Phone: 253.779.8490 Toll Free: 877.902.8490 Fax: 253.779.8499 Website: americascarmuseum.org

S e c u r i n g A m e r i c a’s automotive heritage

Non Profit Org.0 U.S. Postage PAID Tacoma, WA Permit NO 899