National Corvette Museum

It's a Nano World Exhibit Opens at the Corvette Museum

2012-01-11T07:11:00.001-08:00

January 14 the National Corvette Museum welcomes a special traveling exhibition from the Ithaca, New York Sciencenter entitled “It’s a Nano World.” The exhibit introduces children and their families to the biological wonders of the nano world and inspires curiosity, creating a context for future learning about nanobiotechnology.

The hands-on exhibit’s focus is on the “adventures” of very tiny things and demonstrates the tools scientists use to see them. At the ‘Magnification Station’ visitors can use microscopes of different strengths to look at items such as shells, paper, sand and hair. Children can become larger than life at the ‘Giant Magnifying Glass’ and can learn about the effects of small things in the air while playing ‘germ, dust and pollen pinball.’ There is also a ‘Giant Blood Drop’ represented by a large pit filled with over one thousand red balls (red blood cells) and the challenge is to hunt for the few fluffy white balls (white blood cells).

“This will be the third year in a row that we’ve brought in a special exhibit during this time period,” said Katie Frassinelli, Marketing and Communications Manager. “Your ticket into the Museum gives you access to both Corvettes and this hands-on children’s science exhibit… it’s like two in one!”

The exhibit will officially kick off on Saturday, January 21 with Family Fun day, offering free activities in the Museum’s Conference Center from noon-3pm.

The exhibit is funded in part by a sponsorship from PNC Bank. “PNC has developed a program called ‘Grow Up Great’ which helps prepare children for success in school and life, especially underserved children,” said Katie. “This will be our second exhibit to work with PNC on, and this year we are bringing in all of the Bowling Green Headstart children as part of their sponsorship to give them the opportunity to enjoy the exhibit.”

Through Grow Up Great, PNC supports families, educators and community partners to provide innovative opportunities that enhance learning and development in a child’s early years. Research shows that children who participate in high-quality preschool programs are far more likely to experience greater educational achievements, strive toward higher vocational aspirations and contribute to society later in life. Their website, http://www.pncgrowupgreat.com/ offers a number of great Sesame Street themed activities, downloads and information.

"We’re excited to bring this hands-on exhibit to Bowling Green,” said Kevin Carrico, PNC Regional Manager. “PNC’s Grow Up Great program offers educational opportunities to children everywhere, and It's a Nano World has activities families not only from south central Kentucky can enjoy, but also the many visitors who pass through our wonderful community.”

In addition to PNC’s commitment the Museum is seeking businesses and individuals to sponsor classrooms and schools that might not otherwise get the opportunity to take a field trip. The “Fund-A-Fieldtrip” program has the potential to increase the number of visitors to the Museum while providing kids with a fun, educational learning opportunity outside the classroom walls. Classroom sponsorships are $300 and include a number of recognition benefits. Contact Katie at 270-467-8846 or katie@corvettemuseum.org to find out how you can sponsor a classroom.

Admission to the Museum and Exhibit
(Regular admission price includes the exhibit)
$10 for adults
$5 for kids age 6-16
$8 for seniors
$25 family admission (everyone in a household)
$4 student groups age 6-16
$3 student groups age 3-5
(1 free teacher/leader with every 10 students, bus drivers free)

Discount tickets to the exhibit are available at Bowling Green and Smiths Grove branches of PNC Bank, and PNC Bank customers may simply show a bank card to purchase discount tickets at the Museum.

Hours & Location
Open seven days a week, 8am-5pm CT
350 Corvette Drive, just off I-65 exit 28.
The exhibit is open January 14 - April 15, 2012

Learn more about this and other educational programs offered by the Museum online at www.corvettemuseum.org/exhibits/nanoworld.shtml.

For more information on the National Corvette Museum, visit our website at: http://www.corvettemuseum.org/ or call (800) 53-VETTE (83883).

Family Fun Day
Saturday, January 21 - 12-3pm
The exhibit will officially kick off on Saturday, January 21 with Family Fun day, offering free activities in the Museum’s Conference Center from noon-3pm. Activities include an indoor inflatable, face painting, arts and crafts activities, games, vendor booths and more. The first 50 kids to attend will receive FREE admission to the Museum and Nano World exhibit!

Character Breakfast
Saturday, January 21 - 8-11am
Kid Stuff Around Town, a local nonprofit organization who matches youth volunteers with opportunities, is hosting a "Character Breakfast" in conjunction with Family Fun Day. The breakfast will give families the opportunity to dine with various "characters" including Big Red, Yogi Bear and Boo Boo, Cinderella, Iggy, Licky, Axel the Hot Rods Bear and many others. Tickets are $12 each and can be purchased online at:http://www.kidstuffaroundtown.com/.

2012 Corvette Hall of Fame Inductees Announced

2011-12-08T12:25:00.000-08:00

The National Corvette Museum has announced the following inductees to be recognized as part of the 15th Annual Corvette Hall of Fame Ceremony in 2012: Gary Claudio in the category of GM/Chevrolet; Patrick Dolan in the category of Corvette enthusiast/historian ; Bob McDorman also in the category of Corvette enthusiast/historian; and Andy Pilgrim, a champion driver for Corvette Racing will all be recognized with the highest honor bestowed by the Museum for their contributions to the past, present and future of Corvette.

The 2012 Hall of Fame recipients will be inducted into the Corvette Hall of Fame during a ceremony and banquet on Friday, August 31, 2012. Their induction will take place as part of the Museum’s 18th Anniversary Corvette Celebration festivities August 30 – September 1, 2012.

Corvette Hall of Fame Inductee Gary Claudio spent over 27 years at General Motors, starting in the Pontiac Division but transferring to Chevrolet in 1998 as Manager of the Chevy Race Shop. Claudio worked with Doug Fehan (current Corvette Racing Program Manager) to develop the Corvette Race Program. While Doug handled the technical issues, Gary handled everything else including securing the original sponsors, plus obtaining additional funding from Chevrolet Management which allowed GM to race two cars and to race at Le Mans.

Claudio developed and implemented Corvette Corrals, negotiated the participation of Dale Earnhardt and Dale, Jr. to drive the #3 Corvette in the 2001 Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona, was intimately involved with several special edition Corvettes, presided over the successful launch of the ZR1, landed two noteworthy drivers to pace Indy (Jay Leno and Colin Powell), helped develop and name the Corvette Racing mascot “Jake” and served on the NCM Board of Directors for two years. Though he retired from GM in 2008, his Corvette and Corvette Racing marketing accomplishments and support of the Museum continue to be noticed today. Claudio continues to be a true fan and supporter of the Museum, uniting eight Corvette Clubs in the Detroit area for the Motor City Corvette Concours naming the Museum as a beneficiary of the annual show.

Corvette Hall of Fame Inductee Patrick Dolan first started collecting Corvettes at age 9 with a 1953 large scale model and at age 22 purchased his first Corvette – a 1966 white convertible. Dolan has owned a Corvette each year since 1967 and currently owns five. He joined the Royal Corvettes of Western Michigan in 1968 and started participating in circle track racing in 1969. Dolan was very active in the NCCC competition program from 1973-1991, racing in numerous autocrosses throughout the country – winning his class and posting the Fastest Time of Day in 95% of the events he entered.

Dolan has been very active in NCCC, serving as VP of Competition, President for two consecutive terms, Director of Charity and developing the NCCC sponsorship program. In total, he has served on the NCCC Executive Board for 22 of the past 23 years. Dolan is a Founding Member of the National Corvette Museum. He was present at the first general meeting in Cypress Gardens, FL in January 1989, served on the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors and headed the Acquisition Committee from 1991-1994. His dedication and continuing involvement with the NCM was crucial to its initial success.

Corvette Hall of Fame Inductee Bob McDorman has been one of the premier Corvette enthusiasts for more than 50 years. His automobile collections have literally contained hundreds of Corvettes, many of which have been the most sought after and prized Corvettes in the world. McDorman’s collection once included 150 collector cars, all GM, and mostly Corvettes housed in eight buildings on the grounds of his dealership in Canal Winchester, Ohio. Bob spent 16 of his early years working in GM dealerships learning the ins and outs of running a successful business. In 1965 he purchased the Ralph Smith Chevrolet dealership in Groveport, OH and in 1968 moved it to the 33-acre lot in Canal Winchester where he remains today.

Each September McDorman hosted an annual “Corvettes and Chevys on the Canal,” which raised over $275,000 for the local children’s hospital. In addition to being a Lifetime Member of the National Corvette Museum, he has loaned Corvettes for Museum use, including several rare Corvettes for display, and has supported many programs of the Museum including bricks, membership, events, advertising and donations. McDorman was awarded the Time Magazine Quality Dealer Award in 1978 and 2007, 2010 Bloomington Gold “Great Hall” Inductee and numerous other humanitarian and achievement awards.

Corvette Hall of Fame Inductee Andy Pilgrim joined the Corvette Racing team in 1999 after a successful career in IMSA racing where he earned four championships in four consecutive years. Teamed with Ron Fellows, Pilgrim scored the team’s historic first victory at Texas Motor Speedway in September 2000. In 2001, Pilgrim finished second in GTS in the Sebring 12-Hour and Le Mans 24-Hour endurance races, and was on the winning team for the Petit Le Mans season finale at Road Atlanta.

In 2001 he was selected as Dale Earnhardt and Dale Jr.’s teammate in the 24 Hours of Daytona, finishing second in the GTS class behind the sister Corvette C5-R. Pilgrim left the Corvette program in 2004 but stayed with General Motors, driving for the winning team at the Daytona 24 in a Doran-Pontiac, and spent the rest of the season driving for the new Cadillac CTS-V factory team in the SPEED World Challenge GT Series. Pilgrim won the driver’s championship in the CTS-V, and finished 3rd and 2nd in the series in 2006 and 2007. He also made his NASCAR Busch Series debut, driving two road course races for Dale Earnhardt, Jr.’s JR Motorsports team. In 2011, he joined former Corvette Racing teammate Johnny O’Connell in driving the factory Cadillac CTS-V Coupe in the World Challenge and made his Sprint Cup debut driving the 46 car for Whitney Motorsports, finishing 26th.

Pilgrim started the Andy Pilgrim Foundation in 2008 to educate new street drivers and raise awareness of the problems of distracted driving. He has a long history of attending and serving as an instructor at the Museum’s High Performance Driving schools, and has hosted golf tournaments in conjunction with the Museum’s annual C5/C6 Bash with proceeds benefitting the Museum.

The National Corvette Museum established the Corvette Hall of Fame in 1998 to confer the highest honor and recognition upon the most influential individuals in the history of the Corvette. The award recognizes those who have made significant contributions to their respective fields, each having reached the highest level of accomplishment. Inductees must also reflect the highest standards of integrity and character to positively enhance the prestige of the Corvette and the National Corvette Museum.

Additional information on reserving a spot at the prestigious Corvette Hall of Fame banquet will be available in the coming months via our website at: www.corvettemuseum.org or can be obtained by subscribing to our weekly eNewsletter “NCM eNews” at: www.corvettemuseum.org/ncmenews/.

The National Corvette Museum is a member-driven, non-profit foundation dedicated to educating the public through the preservation of the Corvette’s past, present and future heritage. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT, the Museum is located at Exit 28 off I-65 in Bowling Green, KY.

National Corvette Museum Offers "Dollar Days" to Kentucky Residents Visiting in the Month of December

2011-12-08T12:24:00.000-08:00

The National Corvette Museum has named the entire month of December “Dollar Days” for residents of Kentucky who visit the Museum. All month long, Kentucky residents can tour the Museum for a $1.00 admission per person, and will only need to show a Kentucky drivers license or other proof of residency to take advantage of the special offer. Children will be admitted at the $1.00 price with adults presenting the Kentucky identification.

The Museum features over 70 Corvettes, from the 1953 - the first Corvette to capture the hearts of America, to one-of-a-kind prototypes, the only 1983 in existence and historic Corvettes normally unavailable to the general public. A special "100 Years of Chevrolet" exhibit with more than a dozen examples of various Chevrolet marks are on display throughout December as well. Visitors can sit behind the wheel of a new Corvette, race against the clock with the interactive Pit Crew Challenge, and take a drive in the new educational Driving Simulators.

“Dollar Days” is the Museum’s way of giving back to Kentucky residents to thank them for their support and gives them an opportunity to see first-hand why the Corvette is one of the state’s greatest resources and the official state sports car. “We are proud to be able to showcase our Museum dedicated to this extraordinary automobile and celebrate, educate and preserve Corvette’s legendary past and future,” states NCM Executive Director Wendell Strode. “Each visit to the Museum is different because exhibits are ever changing. We look forward to welcoming our Kentucky friends.” Visitors can also take a chance to win a 2012 Corvette for only $10 and do some holiday shopping in the Corvette Store.

The National Corvette Museum is the ‘Gateway to All Things Corvette’ and a member-driven, 501(c)(3) non-profit foundation. Weekly news on the latest Corvette developments, racing updates, event features and raffles are available by subscribing to “NCM eNews” at: corvettemuseum.org/ncmenews. Dedicated to the mission of celebration, education and preservation, the Museum is open seven days a week, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT - located at Exit 28 on I-65 in Bowling Green, KY.

Breakfast with Santa and Santa's Market at the Corvette Museum

2011-11-18T12:27:00.000-08:00

There’s nothing like seeing the face of a child light up when they first spot Santa each holiday season… except maybe when you see a child spot Santa driving a red Corvette into the room! For kids (and kids at heart) it will be a memory they will never forget and for Santa – well, he gets a taste of what it must have been like when the Beatles would take the stage.

The National Corvette Museum is hosting the 3rd Annual Breakfast with Santa event on Saturday, November 26 at 9am, complete with the man in red in a Corvette of red! “There’s something magical about the moment when the garage doors open up and Santa comes driving in,” said Katie Frassinelli, Museum Marketing Manager. “I have to admit, even I get a little excited when it happens! It’s not something you’ll find anywhere else.”

This fun-filled event not only offers a hot breakfast for families and a chance for pictures with Santa AND a red Corvette, but also loads of activities like arts and crafts stations, dance performances, music, story time with Mrs. Claus, an IGA sweet treat station with goodies to take home, life-size gingerbread play houses and more.

“Each year we try to pick a theme and have craft activities, decorations and more that focus on the theme,” said Jackie Utzler, Education and Community Events Coordinator for the Museum. “This year each child will get the opportunity to actually make a mini gingerbread house to take home, in addition to other fun crafts.”

A new activity for this year is kid-sized gingerbread houses. The houses, transformed from empty appliance boxes into a miniature replica of historic downtown Bowling Green, will give younger kids a little extra activity to do. In addition, after the festivities the houses will be placed in the Museum for visitors to enjoy throughout the month of December.

Tickets for the event are only $12 for adults and $8 for kids 12 and under. Infants under 1 are free. Tickets must be reserved in advance by phone at 270-781-7973, online at www.corvettemuseum.org/registration/santa or in person at the National Corvette Museum, open daily 8am-5pm. A limited number of tickets are available.

New for 2011 is “Santa’s Market” – an indoor craft and shopping fair offering holiday gift ideas. The fair will also be on Saturday, November 26 on the Museum’s Corvette Boulevard and is free for the public to attend. The Market is 9am-3pm and vendors will be offering goods including sports merchandise, jewelry, homemade packaged foods, cookwear, doll clothing and accessories, children's books, candles, purses, totes and more.

Corvette Museum Offers "Free Admission" to Recognize US Military, Fire Fighters and Police in November

2011-11-18T12:06:00.000-08:00

The National Corvette Museum would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank the many men and women who have served, and are serving our country.

November is "Military Appreciation Month" at the National Corvette Museum and all military personnel, fire fighters, police officers and their immediate families receive "Free Admission" during the entire month of November. All American branches including active, retired and reserve members will be honored with free admission when presenting a military or service ID.

"We are truly a blessed nation and our military provide the safety we have to enjoy our American privileges," states NCM Executive Director, Wendell Strode. "Corvette is an American icon and we invite these special individuals and their family members to experience a tour of the Museum dedicated to America’s favorite sports car."

THANKS FOR EVERYTHING YOU DO TO PROTECT OUR FREEDOM!

Adam Turpin of Henderson, KY Wins a Vette

2011-10-17T09:25:00.000-07:00

Adam Turpin, a native of Henderson, KY (now stationed out of Norfolk, VA) received a special and exciting phone call on Thursday, September 22. He was drawn as the winner of a 2011 “Build Your Own” ZR1 Corvette in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Adam had visited the National Corvette Museum in August and entered a fundraising raffle sponsored by the Museum – a 501(c)(3) nonprofit foundation. His lucky ticket, number 153, was drawn.

Adam had the option of building a ZR1 Corvette, choosing the color and features of the car – or taking an $80,000 cash option. Adam is currently deployed to the Middle East, serving in the US Navy on the USS Typhoon in the Persian Gulf, and decided to take the cash option on the raffle.

The National Corvette Museum holds a series of fundraising raffles each year, varying in ticket price, odds and type of Corvette. The raffles help support the Museum, which is not only a nonprofit organization, but also a membership organization created solely by Corvette enthusiasts. The Museum is located just off I-65, exit 28 in south central Kentucky and is open daily, 8am-5pm CT. Learn more about the Museum online at www.corvettemuseum.org or call 800-53 VETTE.

Congratulations to Adam!

Chevrolet Fireball Run Brings National Search for Missing Children to Bowling Green, KY

2011-09-21T10:57:00.000-07:00

Next Thursday, September 29 the National Corvette Museum will play host to a very special group of people.

The Chevrolet Fireball Run is an eight-day adventure rally race to raise awareness in the search for missing children, including Amy Lyn Haueter, from Fern Creek, KY. The entire Chevrolet Fireball Run fleet and team members will make a stop in Bowling Green where they will be greeted by the folks from the National Corvette Museum and treated to a light lunch.

Over 40+ teams are participating in this excursion which began in Melbourne, Fla., and will conclude in Gulfport, Miss. On the fifth-day of their journey, all Fireball Run teams, including Daytona 500 Winner and NASCAR legend Geoff Bodine and Astronaut Winston Scott, will make their way to the National Corvette Museum to continue their mission of distributing flyers announcing the search of their designated missing child.

As one of America’s most popular motoring events and largest awareness campaigns, Chevrolet Fireball Run has aided in the recovery of 35 missing children to-date. The teams will be driving a fleet of exotic vehicles, which includes an Angel-1, a specially designed 2011 Chevrolet Camaro dedicated to the more than 1,000 first responders who lost their lives on 9/11 and since Sept. 11. The fleet also features famous vehicles.

Fireball Run participants will distribute more than 50,000 flyers during their journey to aid in the recovery of missing children. Teams will also face-off in motorsport challenges and solve clues during the competition.

Media and spectators are invited to come out from 2-4pm to visit with the group and send them off in style! Learn more about the Fireball Run at http://www.fireballrun.com.

Smithsonian Magazine's 7th Annual Museum Day Offers Free Admission to Area Museums

2011-09-14T09:00:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, September 24, 2011, the Historic Railpark and Train Museum, National Corvette Museum, and Riverview at Hobson Grove will participate in the seventh annual Smithsonian Magazine Museum Day. The Museums will join other participating museums and cultural institutions nationwide to open their doors free of charge to all visitors who download the Museum Day Ticket from Smithsonian.com. A journey to celebrate our world’s dynamic heritage and cultural life, participating Museum Day venues emulate the free admission policy of the Smithsonian Institution’s Washington, D.C.-based facilities.

The Historic RailPark & Train Museum takes a step back in time to the golden era of passenger service. A guided tour of vintage railcars showcases the workings of a Post Office Car, Dining Car and Sleeper Car. The self-guided tour of the two story museum immerses visitors into the cultural story of the railroad including two new exhibits. "Hobo Times explores the life of the Hobo with the secret language interpreted into quilts by Creative Quilters Guild," said Sharon Tabor, Executive Director of the Railpark. "The Civil War and the Railroad includes personal stories, models and antique photography," she added.

Visitors to the National Corvette Museum will view 14 examples of Chevrolet models through the decades as part of the special 100 Years of Chevrolet Exhibit. The Museum also offers a new display of NASCAR race suits worn by Jimmy Johnson, Dale Earnhardt, Jr., Jeff Gordon and Mark Martin - on loan from Hendrick Motorsports. "We are an ever-changing Museum and no two visits with us are the same," said Katie Frassinelli, Corvette Museum Marketing Manager. "We are more than just Corvette, offering a little something for everyone!"

Riverview at Hobson Grove is celebrating the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War in Kentucky with a juried art show with a Civil War theme. The home is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and an official site on the Civil War Discovery Trail.

Other participating Kentucky museums include: Kentucky Historical Society (Frankfort), Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory (Louisville), My Old Kentucky Home (Bardstown), Owensboro Museum of Science and History, The National Quilt Museum (Paducah), Kentucky Derby Museum (Louisville) and International Museum of the Horse at the Kentucky Horse Park (Lexington).

The Museum Day Ticket is available to download at www.smithsonian.com/museumday. Visitors who present the official pass will gain free admission for two people to one participating museum or cultural venue of their choice. One ticket is permitted per household, per email address. Listings and links to participating museums’ and sponsors’ sites can be found at www.smithsonian.com/museumday.

About Historic RailPark & Train Museum
Located off I-65 at exit 28, The Historic RailPark & Train Museum is open 9-5 Monday – Saturday and 1-4 on Sunday. For more information visit http://www.historicrailpark.com/ or call 270-745-7317.

About National Corvette Museum
The National Corvette Museum is the ‘Gateway to all things Corvette’ and is open daily from 8am to 5pm Central Time. It is located at I-65 exit 28 and more information can be found by calling 800-538-3883 or online at http://www.corvettemuseum.org/.

About Riverview at Hobson Grove
Open daily, 10am-4pm, Riverview is located at 110 W. Main Avenue and can be reached at 270-843-5565 or online at www.bgky.org/riverview.

About Smithsonian Media
Smithsonian Media comprises Smithsonian magazine, Air & Space, goSmithsonian, Smithsonian Media Digital Network and the Smithsonian Channel. Smithsonian Media’s flagship publication, Smithsonian magazine, is one of the nation’s largest magazines with a circulation of more than 2 million and nearly 7 million readers. Smithsonian Media is a division of Smithsonian Enterprises, the revenue-generating business unit of the Smithsonian Institution. The Smithsonian Institution is the world’s largest museum and research complex consisting of 19 museums and galleries, the National Zoological Park and nine research facilities. Approximately 30 million people from around the world visited the Smithsonian in 2009.

National Corvette Museum Insurance Agency Launches New Online Services

2011-08-30T11:21:00.000-07:00

NCM Insurance Agency and American Modern Insurance Group, has introduced new online self-service capabilities for policyholders which will launch in phases over the next few years. This month we have introduced a new Online Services portal which allows customers to receive electronic notification when new policy and billing documents are posted online and the ability to download and print the documents.

The online services not only give customers the option of doing business online 24/7, but saves paper in the process and helps customers better manage their insurance documents electronically.

“The Museum is fortunate to have customers from across the country and we realize that our business hours may not always be convenient – especially for those on the west coast,” said NCM Insurance Agent Adam Boca. “The new online services gives our customers 24/7 self-service access, and you can even signup to receive email and text notifications.”

Customers can also file non-emergency claims at their convenience, and request simple policy modifications like change of name, address or payment plan online at any time.

To learn more about the NCM Insurance Agency’s Online Services visit: www.ncminsurance.com/manage or if you would like a no obligation quote, visit www.ncminsurance.com.

National Corvette Museum Launches Audio Tour

2011-08-25T13:41:00.000-07:00

Tour Enhances Visits to the Museum with Information and Stories

The National Corvette Museum now offers an audio tour to accompany self-guided tours through the Museum. The audio tour is 45 minutes in length and can be downloaded to any MP3 device through the Museum's website free of charge, or visitors may rent an MP3 player at the Museum for only $5 each.

“'The audio tour will greatly enrich visitors' experiences as they navigate through our seven sections of the Museum: Gateway, Nostalgia, Performance, Engineering & Design, Enthusiast, Skydome/Hall of Fame and Exhibit Hall,” said Katie Frassinelli, Marketing and Communications Manager at the National Corvette Museum.

Listeners will hear how Corvette got its name, where Harley Earl got the idea for "Project Opel," why the Corvette emblem was changed at the last minute and how Bill Mitchell's paint shop guys got the car to match the shark.

Susan West Woodard, Program Director of Christian Family Radio in Bowling Green, loaned her vocal talents by recording the tour for the Museum. "The Museum has a lot of sights and ambient sounds in the different exhibits, so we felt Susan's voice would be a fantastic complement to the excitement already in place," added Katie.

The audio tour is currently available in English and can be rented at the Museum's admissions counter or downloaded here.

Corvette Museum Celebrates 100th Anniversary of Chevrolet

2011-08-09T13:47:00.000-07:00

Chevrolet’s first car pulled onto the auto scene like a decked-out debutante. Race-car driver Louis Chevrolet imagined an upscale dream car based on the racing cars he loved. The Series C Classic Six produced 40 horsepower and could go a whopping 65 miles per hour, competing with the high-performance cars of its time. For the first couple of years, it was simply called “the Chevrolet.” While Chevrolet co-founder Bill Durant would quickly shift the company toward affordability, performance would stay at the heart of Chevrolet for a century to come.

The National Corvette Museum celebrates Chevrolet’s 100th anniversary with a special 14-car exhibit, showcasing a variety of Chevrolet vehicles through the decades. On display are a 1912 “Little” – a product of the Little Car Company which was dissolved into Chevrolet; a 1928 Phaeton Touring Car; a 1935 Chevrolet; a 1936 Canopy Express Pick-up – used for produce display and delivery; a 1942 ‘War Car’, a 1955 Bel Air; a 1958 Impala; a 1964 Corvair; a 1965 Chevelle 300; a 1970 Chevelle; 1987 Monte Carlo; a 1996 Camaro; a 2003 50th Anniversary Corvette and a 2012 Volt.

“Our goal for this exhibit was to not only offer a wide variety of Chevrolet models, but also select vehicles to represent each decade of the 100 years,” said Katie Frassinelli, Marketing Manager and member of the Museum’s Display Committee.

As with the majority of vehicles on display in the museum, all of the exhibit cars are on loan from private individuals with three of them on loan from the General Motors Heritage Center. The display runs through December 31, 2011 in the Museum’s Exhibit Hall and is included with regular museum admission.

The National Corvette Museum is located at I-65, exit 28 in Bowling Green, Kentucky and is open daily, 8am-5pm CT. Admission is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, $5 for kids age 6-16, kids under 6 are free, or family admission (everyone in the same household) is $25.

In addition to the Museum’s celebratory exhibit, Chevrolet has launched a special “Chevy 100” channel on Pandora featuring 100 popular songs with Chevrolet-related references such as Prince’s “Little Red Corvette” and Don McLean’s “American Pie.” Additionally, Chevrolet is sponsoring the August 20 Woodward Dream Cruise – a grassroots event which draws an estimated 1.5 million car enthusiasts and 30,000 muscle cars to Michigan’s legendary Woodward Avenue. Chevrolet fans can also vote for their favorite models in a tournament-style bracket challenge which will eventually crown just one Chevy as “the best” at www.chevrolet.com/100-years/best-chevy-of-all-time/.

National Corvette Museum Staff Join "One Acre Club"

2011-06-16T14:45:00.000-07:00

Museum Team Demonstrates Support of Project with $15,000 Commitment

For just over a year the National Corvette Museum has offered a unique sponsorship opportunity for those wanting to play a role in helping to build the Motorsports Park. By participating in the “One Acre Club,” individuals, groups, clubs and businesses can help raise funding for the project, one acre at a time.

At the May National Corvette Museum staff meeting, development assistant Virginia Crump brought an idea to the group. She proposed the staff coming together to purchase an acre.
“During the Winner’s Circle celebration dinner, I was so impressed with Doug Fehan’s talk. The group of donors he was speaking to have a powerful influence on others, which if that power was utilized, could have an enormous impact on the reality of the Motorsports Park,” Virginia said. “Then, when individuals started coming forward to make their one-acre commitments, I felt like we as an employee group could make a powerful statement to others by buying an acre!”
Virginia proposed at the staff meeting that individuals could sign up for payroll deductions, spread out over a period of time, or make a one-time donation. Staff members felt this was a great idea and signed up to commit. At the June staff meeting Virginia announced that we were just shy of the $15,000 mark so some staff stepped up and agreed to pitch in more – bringing the total to $15,000.

“I’m so thrilled that we DID IT!” Virginia added. A total of 34 staff members stepped up to the plate to become a part of the “One Acre Club.”

Currently the “One Acre Club” Campaign has a total of 27 full acres committed, 2 half acres and 8 quarter acres. The “One Acre Club” promotion ends December 31, 2011 and affords full acre participants the choice of receiving track time in exchange for their contribution, or they can be recognized as donor members and receive an acknowledgement letter for tax purposes. All full acre participants receive an honorary “deed” for their acre.

For more information on the Motorsports Park project, visit www.motorsportspark.org and become a ‘fan’ on Facebook at www.facebook.com/motorsportspark.

ZR-1 Net Registry Joins “One Acre Club”

2011-06-06T07:43:00.000-07:00

Organization Helps Further the Motorsports Park Fundraising Campaign with $15,000 Commitment

In December 2008, the ZR-1 Net Registry kicked off what would become a friendly rivalry between themselves and the Grand Sport Registry by purchasing a quarter acre as part of the National Corvette Museum Motorsports Park fundraising campaign. Three years later that rivalry is in full force as the group presented a check for $15,000 to the Museum at this year’s C4/ZR-1 Gathering, making their total contribution to date 1-1/4 acres.

“We were challenged by the Grand Sport Registry, and I challenged myself and other members of the ZR-1 Net Registry to upgrade our quarter acre. I said ‘we can do better.’” Dave "Mom" Bright, founder and driving force behind the nonprofit organization said.

The Grand Sport Registry had presented a check to the Museum at the 2010 C4/ZR-1 Gathering, paying off a full acre as part of the campaign.

The registry actually started out as two separate organizations – the ZR-1 Net and the ZR-1 Registry, but in 2005 they officially became the ZR-1 Net Registry. The group has over 600 members worldwide and is registered as a nonprofit organization.

Dave "Mom" said his group is very excited about the park, “You can’t build it quick enough!” Dave added that they come down every year for the Gathering and enjoy participating in drag racing and autocross – but that the weather is unreliable. “You will be there for a three-day event, and maybe the day you are scheduled for drag racing its raining, but one of the other days the weather might be ok but can't reschedule. When you own the track, you have the flexibility of changing around the event at the last minute whereas now you can’t.”

Currently the “One Acre Club” Campaign has a total of 26 full acres committed, 2 ½ acres and 8 ¼ acres. The “One Acre Club” promotion ends December 31, 2011 and affords participants the choice of receiving track time in exchange for their contribution, or they can be recognized as donor members and receive an acknowledgement letter for tax purposes. All full acre participants receive an honorary “deed” for their acre.

For more information on the Motorsports Park project, visit http://www.motorsportspark.org/ and become a ‘fan’ on Facebook at www.facebook.com/motorsportspark.

National Corvette Museum Participating in Blue Star Museums

2011-06-02T13:39:00.000-07:00

Corvette Museum one of more than 1,300 museums across America to offer free admission to military personnel and their families this summer

The National Corvette Museum has joined Blue Star Museums, a partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, and more than 1,300 museums across America to offer free admission to all active duty military personnel and their immediate family from Memorial Day through Labor Day 2011.

The National Corvette Museum kicked off the Blue Star initiative with an American Warrior Recognition event on Thursday, May 26 bringing nearly 80 wounded warriors from Fort Knox and Fort Campbell to the Museum for complimentary tours, a luncheon and souvenirs.

“We think it is only fitting that America’s sports car – the Chevrolet Corvette – shows its appreciation to American warriors,” Museum Executive Director Wendell Strode said.

The Museum also offers free admission during the month of November to any American veteran (not just active) and their immediate family as part of Military Appreciation Month. Additionally, active military receive free admission to the Museum year-round, while the Blue Star summer program extends the benefit to their immediate family.

“Blue Star Museums may be the program at the NEA of which I am proudest,” said NEA Chairman Rocco Landesman. “Blue Star Museums recognizes and thanks our military families for all they are doing for our country, and simultaneously begins young people on a path to becoming life-long museum goers.”

“Last year the success of the inaugural year of the Blue Star Museums program showed that partnerships between the nation’s museum and military communities are a natural,” said Blue Star Families Chairman Kathy Roth-Douquet. “We are thrilled that 300,000 military family members visited our partner museums in the summer of 2010. We hope to exceed that number this year as the military community takes advantage of the rich cultural heritage they defend and protect every day.”

This year, more than 1,324 (and counting) museums in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and American Samoa are taking part in the initiative, including more than 500 new museums this year. Museums are welcome to join Blue Star Museums throughout the summer. This year’s Blue Star Museums represent not just fine arts museums, but also science museums, history museums, nature centers, and 70 children’s museums.

Participants in Kentucky also include International Bluegrass Music Museum in Owensboro, Kentucky Historical Society in Frankfort, National Quilt Museum in Paducah, Museum of Science and History in Owensboro and Speed Art Museum in Louisville. In nearby Nashville, TN, The Frist Center for the Visual Arts and the Parthenon Museum are participating.

About Blue Star Museums
Blue Star Museums runs from Memorial Day, May 30, 2011 through to Labor Day, September 5, 2011. The free admission program is available to active-duty military and their immediate family members (military ID holder and five immediate family members). Active duty military include Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, and active duty National Guard and active duty Reserve members. Some special or limited-time museum exhibits may not be included in this free admission program. For questions on particular exhibits or museums, please contact the museum directly. To find out which museums are participating, visit www.arts.gov/bluestarmuseums. The site includes a list of participating museums and a map to help with visit planning.

Museums that wish to participate in Blue Star Museums may contact bluestarmuseums@arts.gov, or Wendy Clark at 202-682-5451.

About National Corvette Museum
The National Corvette Museum is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit foundation and is open daily, 8am-5pm Central Time. It is located at 350 Corvette Drive, Bowling Green, KY – just off I-65 exit 28. For more information about the Museum visit www.corvettemuseum.org or call 800-538-3883.

Chevy and Indy 500 Celebrate 100 Years of Shared History

2011-05-27T06:21:00.000-07:00

• Louis, Arthur, and Gaston Chevrolet all competed in early Indy 500 races
• 2011 Camaro SS Convertible will be 22nd Chevrolet to start iconic race
• New 2.2L turbocharged Chevrolet V-6 to compete in 2012 IZOD IndyCar Series

On May 30, 1911, Arthur Chevrolet competed in the inaugural Indianapolis 500. One hundred years later, a Chevrolet Camaro SS Convertible will lead the 2011 Indianapolis 500, as the car maker and iconic race celebrate their Centennial anniversaries – and start the countdown for Chevrolet’s return to IndyCar racing in 2012.

“Before Chevrolet was a brand, Louis Chevrolet and his brothers made a name for themselves behind the wheel of a race car,” said Jim Campbell, GM vice president of Performance Vehicles and Motorsports. “After Chevrolet became a car company, Louis and his brothers continued to race at Indy, forging one of the most storied relationships in automotive racing.

“That history includes some of the most memorable cars that have paced the Indianapolis 500, well as many checkered flags won under Chevrolet power,” Campbell said. “With a new Chevrolet race engine competing in next year’s race, the relationship between Indy and Chevrolet is heating back up.”

1911 - 1920: Louis, Arthur, and Gaston Chevrolet compete at Indy.

Although 2011 marks the 100th anniversaries for Chevrolet and the Indianapolis 500, the connection can be traced back to as early as 1905.

That year, Louis Chevrolet and Carl G. Fisher competed while touring the Midwest as daredevil drivers in racing exhibitions, and the excitement of automobile racing shaped the fortunes of both men.

In 1909, Fisher began building his brick-paved auto-racing track near Indianapolis as Louis Chevrolet became a nationally known celebrity driving for Billy Durant’s Buick racing team.

In early 1911, Durant invited Chevrolet to partner on automotive projects, including a new car to be called a “Chevrolet.” Louis soon took a break from engineering to help his brother, Arthur, prepare a Buick for the inaugural 500-mile race at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

On May 30, 1911, Arthur Chevrolet drove 30 laps in the first Indianapolis 500 before mechanical problems sidelined his car. On November 3, 1911, Louis Chevrolet and Billy Durant incorporated the Chevrolet Motor Car Co. in Detroit.

Three years later, Louis Chevrolet sold his interests in the Chevrolet car company to Durant and moved to Indianapolis to pursue racing with his brothers. Louis competed in the 1915 Indianapolis race, lapping the track at more than 80 mph before dropping out with engine trouble. He returned for the 1919 Indianapolis 500 with brother Gaston, campaigning in cars from their own company, Frontenac Motors Corp. Louis and Gaston finished seventh and tenth, respectively. In 1920, Gaston won the Indy 500 in a Monroe-Frontenac, becoming the first winning driver to finish the race on one set of tires.

1945 to Today: 22 Chevrolet Vehicles Pace the Indy 500

Carl Fisher paced the first Indianapolis 500 – in his personal car – because he felt a rolling start would be safer than the traditional drivers’ sprint. Since then, the pace laps that start the race have become a popular tradition of the Indy 500. This year, a 2011 Chevrolet Camaro SS Convertible will pace the 500-mile race – the 22nd Chevrolet to do so.

“Chevrolet has paced the Indianapolis 500 more times than any other brand,” said Campbell. “The 2011 Camaro SS Convertible Pace Car brings a modern interpretation of one of the most iconic cars ever to pace Indy – the 1969 Camaro SS Pace Car. We think this is a fitting way to celebrate Chevrolet’s history with the Indy 500, while gearing up for our next 100 years at Indy.”

The first Chevrolet to pace Indy, a 1948 convertible, was driven by Indianapolis Speedway President Wilbur Shaw.

Ten Corvettes have paced the Indianapolis 500. The first appearance was in Corvette's 25th anniversary year, 1978. That year, the Wall Street Journal triggered a buying frenzy for the official 1978 Corvette Limited Edition Pace Car replicas when it published a front-page story about their collectability

The 2011 Camaro SS will be the seventh Camaro to pace the 500. The first was in 1967, the year of Camaro’s introduction. Camaro was invited back to pace the 1969 race. The white 1969 SS Convertible pace car, with its domed hood, "Hugger Orange" stripes and specially trimmed interior, became a singularly iconic Indy pace car. Today, Camaro collectors treasure the remaining examples of the 3,675 official replicas built in 1969.

The 2011 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible Indianapolis 500 Pace Car’s Summit White exterior, with orange stripes, is a direct lift from the 1969 pacesetter, while the orange leather-trimmed interior is a modern counterpoint to the historic exterior. To bring the pace car look to the street, Chevrolet will offer 500 of the 2011 Chevrolet Camaro Convertible Indianapolis 500 Pace Cars for sale. They are slated for delivery this spring.

2012: The Return of Chevy Power to IndyCar

In addition to pacing the Indy 500, Louis Chevrolet’s namesake has also powered many of the cars that competed at the Brickyard.

Most recently, Chevrolet competed in Indy-style competition as an engine manufacturer in 1986-93 and 2002-05 with V-8 engines, winning 104 races, powering six driver champions, and scoring seven Indianapolis 500 victories.

Next year, Chevrolet will return to the IZOD IndyCar Series with a new twin-turbocharged, direct-injected V-6 racing engine powered by renewable E85 ethanol fuel. Developed by General Motors and Ilmor Engineering, the Chevrolet IndyCar V-6 will have a displacement of 2.2 liters, aluminum block and cylinder heads, and will be a fully stressed chassis member supporting the gearbox and rear suspension.

The Chevrolet IndyCar engine will be available to all entrants in accordance with the series' regulations. Team Penske is the first IndyCar team to commit to Chevrolet power in 2012. Team Penske previously tallied 31 open-wheel victories with Chevrolet engines, including four Indianapolis 500 wins.

For Chevrolet coverage during the Indy 500 weekend, visit the Chevrolet Facebook page, or follow us on Twitter, hashtag: #ChevyIndy500.

About Chevrolet
Founded in Detroit in 1911, Chevrolet celebrates its centennial as a global automotive brand with annual sales of about 4.25 million vehicles in more than 130 countries. Chevrolet provides consumers with fuel-efficient, safe and reliable vehicles that deliver high quality, expressive design, spirited performance and value. The Chevrolet portfolio includes iconic performance cars such as Corvette and Camaro; dependable, long-lasting pickups and SUVs such as Silverado and Suburban; and award-winning passenger cars and crossovers such as Spark, Cruze, Malibu, Equinox and Traverse. Chevrolet also offers “gas-friendly to gas-free" solutions including Cruze Eco and Volt. Cruze Eco offers 42 mpg highway while Volt offers 35 miles of electric, gasoline-free driving and an additional 344 miles of extended range. Most new Chevrolet models offer OnStar safety, security and convenience technologies including OnStar Hands-Free Calling, Automatic Crash Response and Stolen Vehicle Slowdown. More information regarding Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com.

National Corvette Museum Displays Roy Orbison's 1967 Corvette Stingray

2011-05-26T12:55:00.000-07:00

Roy Orbison was one of the world's first car collectors, and took great pride in his collection. His red 1967 Corvette Stingray is now on display at the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, KY.

Roy was a big Corvette fan and owned several over the years. The display car was Roy's personal car, used daily to drive to the studio during the making of "The Traveling Wilburys" and "Mystery Girl" albums. It was also the last car that Roy purchased before his death in 1988.

The car has 390HP and 427 CI. It features factory side pipes, air conditioning, OEM bolt-on alloys, chrome step plates, 4-speed manual transmission, electric windows, power steering, OEM gauges, 3 2BBL carburetors and matching numbers. The car is on loan from Roy's wife, Barbara Orbison.

Crank up your favorite Orbison tunes and take the scenic drive to Bowling Green this summer to see Roy's car, as well as many other American classics!

America's Sports Car Recognizes America's Warriors

2011-05-23T13:05:00.000-07:00

Event Welcomes Wounded Warriors from Fort Knox and Fort Campbell to Corvette Country

Sometimes it can be hard to find a meaningful way to show your appreciation towards those who give so much to protect our freedom, but on May 26 Corvette enthusiasts have a unique opportunity to do just that.

The National Corvette Museum in collaboration with hundreds of Corvette enthusiasts and other supporters of our nation’s military are joining together to honor our American Warriors with a special caravan that will bring Wounded Warriors to Bowling Green, Kentucky for a day of immersion in America’s Sports Car, the Corvette.

Approximately 80 wounded warriors will be given a scenic ride from Fort Campbell and Fort Knox to Bowling Green by enthusiasts from all over the country in Corvettes, escorted by Kentucky State Police. The day’s activities include guided VIP tours of the GM Corvette Assembly Plant and National Corvette Museum, lunch and a complimentary gift card to the Museum’s Corvette Store.

Financial support for the event was provided by ExxonMobil, National Association for Uniformed Services, American Legion Post 23 and numerous other individuals, clubs and organizations.

"We are very proud and honored to support the American Warrior Recognition," said Rebecca Aldred, Mobil 1 global brand manager, ExxonMobil Lubricants & Petroleum Specialties Company. "We are extremely grateful to these brave men and women for the sacrifices they made in service to their country, and intend to demonstrate that appreciation during their visit to the National Corvette Museum and the GM Corvette Assembly Plant."

Those who cannot attend the event but would like to contribute to the cause may make a tax-deductible donation online at https://store.corvettemuseum.com/services/donations.asp.

A second American Warrior Recognition event is planned to be held during the Museum’s annual “Vets ‘n Vettes” event in November.

National Corvette Museum Honors Teachers with Appreciation Expo

2011-05-16T12:39:00.000-07:00

This Sunday, May 22 from 1-3pm area teachers have the opportunity to be rewarded for their hard work and efforts at the 2nd Annual Teacher Appreciation Expo. The event began as a way for the local community to show their appreciation to educators who work so hard to educate our youth. Last year’s event welcomed educators from 13 school districts and offered an afternoon of free food, massages, door prizes, swag bags and vendor booths geared towards teachers plus free Museum tours for the teacher and their immediate family.

“Growing up with a parent who worked in the school system I saw a lot of behind the scenes work they do to prepare for their students,” said Katie Frassinelli, Marketing and Communications Manager. “An event like this gives our community the chance to thank the teachers for everything they do because often the teachers don’t get thanked enough.”

This year offers loads of door prizes including $50 worth of Mary Kay cosmetics; free color, cut and style from Spa Fabulous; jewelry by A Sterling Performance; wreath by Lolly Dots Boutique; Tastefully Simple gift bag; $50 Parent-Teacher Store gift card and much more. Teachers and their immediate family will also enjoy food and drinks provided by Puerto Vallarta, Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken, Mariah’s, Buffalo Wild Wings, Sam’s Club, Riley’s Bakery and Fazoli’s.

“We have some demonstrations that will take place on our stage throughout the event, and the first 150 teachers will take home a swag bag filled with loads of goodies,” said Jackie Utzler, Education and Community Events Coordinator at the Corvette Museum.

Teachers are encouraged to register online for the event at www.corvettemuseum.org/teacher.

For more information , visit our website:
http://www.corvettemuseum.org/teacher

General Motors Announces C7 to be Built in Bowling Green, Kentucky

2011-05-04T09:46:00.000-07:00

The General Motors Corvette Assembly Plant was packed full of community and state leaders, GM officials, media and supporters of Corvette today in hopes of good news with regards to the future of Corvette and Bowling Green. It was good news indeed as GM North American President Mark Reuss took to the podium and announced their plans to invest $131 million in the Bowling Green Assembly Plant, "This facility is particularly thrilling for me to be at because I've had Corvettes, in fact, Corvette is one of the reasons why I went to work for the company a long time ago," said Reuss.

"It's a thrill for me to be here today in Bowling Green as the bearer of good news at one of our very best facilities building" our most iconic car," Reuss said. "When I say our most iconic car, I really mean America's most iconic car."

Reuss then cut to the chase and made the announcement everyone had been hoping for, "I'm here to announce that GM will invest $131 million in Kentucky to ensure that the next generation Chevrolet Corvette will be produced by this team, in this plant, in Bowling Green - the Home of Corvette.

Reuss's announcement was met by resounding applause, cheers and a standing ovation

"Thank you to you because you are the reason and the quality and the innovation and the craftmanship that happens here is a direct reflection of our re-investment, but more importantly as much money as that is, we really are adding about 250 jobs to the area..."

Reuss said the current generation will continue for about two more years while work happens behind the scenes work will begin to update the facility and ensure the Corvette will continue to be the true American sports car built here for many years to come. The C7 model is predicted to be debuted Spring of 2013 for a 2014 model year Corvette.

"As you know Bowling Green is a special place and not just to me and to GM but to Corvette lovers around the world. This place is THE mecca for those who appreciate true affordable sports car performance and they come from the four corners of the globe to see what you do here," said Reuss. "It is amazing and it is inspiring and it is very American. "

Reuss added that they come to see the birthplace of the American car that holds it own against Porsche, Ferarri, BMW and the rest of the legendary European sports car makers, both on the street and on the track. "They come to see how on earth Americans can build such a car... a car that meets and beats the best in the world, and the world has to offer, although typically the world has to offer theirs at a MUCH higher price point."

Reuss praised the craftsmanship of the Bowling Green Assembly Plant, that the plants in Italy wish they could match. He added that though GM boasts the Corvette getting 27 miles per gallon, that he had a Corvette in school and would get better than that - 29 miles per gallon from Detroit to Nashville. "Like the ad says, you are building rockets."

"Unlike any other facility in North America your doors are open to our customers who make pilgrimmages to Bowling Green to see their car being built, meet the people, and visit the National Corvette Museum." Reuss also praised the Museum pointing out that it is not funded by General Motors. "I'm one of the lovers of the Museum and the heritage of Corvette and this state means a lot to me personally."

Reuss closed his presentation saying "Tadge and the team are doing the next generation Corvette and it will thrill all of the sports car drivers of the future and it will be built right here." He added that this is just one of their ongoing investments of billions of dollars in their US facilities, keeping and creating jobs for their American workers.

Later in the presentation Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear named Reuss a Kentucky Colonel, presenting him with a framed certificate and mint julep cup.

Watch a complete video of Reuss's speech on the National Corvette Museum's You Tube channel at www.youtube.com/corvettemuseum. High res images are also available for download at:
https://picasaweb.google.com/corvettemuseum/GMC7Announcement

NCM Motorsports Park Project Kicked Into High Gear

2011-05-03T14:24:00.000-07:00

Six more acres committed for Motorsports Park Project, Phase 1 Progressing

Each April during the National Corvette Museum’s C5/C6 Bash festivities an evening banquet is held to recognize and thank those who go the extra step to support the Museum with donations totaling $1,000 or more for the previous year, and those who have added the Museum to their estate planning.

The 2011 banquet brought special guests, members of the Corvette Racing team including Program Manager Doug Fehan, Car #3 Crew Chief Dan Binks, and Driver Tommy Milner. Doug inspired the group with a moving speech on how important dedicated enthusiasts are to both the Museum and the brand, saying that the Motorsports Park is the “final jewel in the crown of Corvette.” He added “nobody has a museum funded by the people who buy the car, love the car, have a passion for the car.” Nobody except Corvette of course! Doug reminded supporters that they have the power to make the Motorsports Park a reality and they have the power to influence others to join with them.

After presentations were made to the nearly 100 donors and supporters in attendance, Larry and Peggy Martin of Louisville, Kentucky made a surprise visit to the stage. Larry spoke of how Doug’s words inspired them, and how they wanted to come forward and commit to joining the “One Acre Club” with a contribution of $15,000. Larry welcomed others who felt as strongly about Doug’s speech to also come forward and share the stage… and joining Larry and Peggy were Jack and Doris DeLong of Huntingdon Valley, PA; Andy Guinn of Douglassville, TX and Wendell (and Jan) Strode of Bowling Green, KY . Also making a commitment of purchasing an acre that evening were Steve and Debbie Uhrig of Arcanum, OH. Steve and Debbie had previously committed to purchasing an acre and increased that commitment to two acres. The following day, Wayne and P.J. Ray, founding members from Roswell, GA, came on board, committing to an acre. Other members and clubs also expressed interest in supporting the project in the near future.

“We’re so thrilled with the support and enthusiasm for our project,” said Museum Executive Director Wendell Strode. “In a tough economy, it means a lot to have so many Museum and motorsports supporters step up to the plate.”

Strode also announced at the Bash that the Motorsports Park would now be completed in phases so that the project can continue to progress. The museum currently owns 70 acres of land, and will be executing the option to purchase an additional 92 acres for Phase 1. Phase 1 will include a two mile “west” road course and autocross/skid pad area.

“Rather than hold up the entire project, hoping for major sponsorships to cover the initial $35 million project, we decided to break it into smaller, more achievable phases so that motorsports enthusiasts could begin enjoying portions of the park in the near future,” added Strode.

Phase 2 will include a ¼ mile drag strip, followed by an “east” road course, karting track and separate autocross / skidpad area in future phases.

Keep up to date on the Motorsports Park project at www.motorsportspark.org and become a Fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/motorsportspark!

Chevrolet Honors America's Military

2011-04-28T06:23:00.000-07:00

GM Military Discount Expanded

From May 1st - 31st, 2011, the GM Military Discount is being expanded to include Military Retirees and their spouses. So for May, Active Military, Reservists, National Guard & Spouses plus Retired Military Members & their Spouses will be eligible for the special Military Discount toward the purchase or lease of a new Chevrolet - It's simply the best Military Discount of any car company!

For additional information, go to http://www.gmmilitarydiscount.com/

Honor Badge to Recognize Your Service

In addition, every eligible Military customer that purchases, leases or orders a new Chevrolet during Chevrolet's Military Appreciation Month (May 1st-31st) can also order a complimentary Honor Badge which can be placed on your new Chevrolet vehicle at no additional charge. This honor badge will be shipped to you separately after you take delivery of the vehicle. You may contact your Chevrolet dealership's service department to schedule a convenient appointment to have your Honor Badge installed.

For each Honor Badge that is ordered with a vehicle, Chevrolet will make a $100 donation to "Cell Phones for Soldiers", enabling troops far from home to keep in touch with their loved ones. The charity collects used cell phones and recycles or resells them. The proceeds of these sales are used to purchase prepaid calling cards for U.S. troops stationed overseas.

For additional information, go to http://www.gmmilitarydiscount.com/

2012 Chevrolet "Honor & Valor" Limited Edition Camaro SS

To honor the service of the men and women of America’s armed forces, Chevrolet is proud to announce the exclusive 2012 Chevrolet Honor & Valor Limited Edition Camaro SS – a vehicle whose rare combination of power, performance and precision exemplifies the indomitable spirit of our troops, and is ready for action as America’s 21st century sports car.

In recognition of Chevrolet’s 100th birthday, only 100 units of the “Honor & Valor” Limited Edition Camaro SS will be built and are only available to eligible members* of the military (the first unit will be auctioned with net proceeds going to Cell Phones for Soldiers). Orders are now being accepted and will be prioritized on a first-come, first-served basis. Production of this special 2012 Camaro SS military model begins in July, and deliveries are scheduled for August.

“Honor & Valor” Limited Edition Camaro SS Coupe Highlights:
• Available in three colors: Victory Red, Summit White or Black (all models feature a black leather appointed interior)
• Available with 2SS trim level and RS Exterior Appearance Package(RPO: WRS)
• Available in either Six Speed Manual or Six Speed Automatic Transmission
• Legendary SS Performance: 6.2L V8 with 400+ horsepower and torque
• Surprising Fuel Economy: Estimated 25 MPG Highway with 6-speed Automatic
• Prominent Heritage Grille
• Unique Painted Ground Effects
• Distinctive Side Stripe
• Premium Floor Mats
• Two Special “Honor and Valor” Limited Edition badges
• One-Year Subscription of XM Satellite Radio
• License Plate Bracket
• Chevrolet will make a $100 donation to Cell Phones for Soldiers

*To order this Limited Edition Camaro, go to www.gmmilitarydiscount.com to get all the details.

Corvette Performance Reaches Higher in 2012

2011-04-28T06:08:00.000-07:00

Interior enhancements, new performance packages highlight upgrades

Chevrolet announced today that it will once again elevate Corvette’s performance capabilities with a series of improvements for the 2012 model year that enhance on-track performance and on-road comfort. They include enhancements to the high-performance Z06 and ZR1 models as well as interior upgrades across the Corvette lineup.

Sports car fans will get their first look at the 2012 models – including the racing-inspired appearance of the Chevrolet Centennial Edition – at a special event this weekend at the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Ky. Production begins in July.

“We constantly strive to make the Corvette a better car on the road and the track,” says Tadge Juechter, Corvette vehicle line director and chief engineer. “For 2012, the Corvette lineup achieves its highest performance level ever, while at the same time being easier to drive and enjoy thanks to several changes and new features inside the car.”

New Michelin Cup ZP tires elevate Z06/ZR1 performance Corvette’s greater performance for 2012 begins with the new, optional Michelin® Pilot® Sport Cup Zero Pressure tires, which are available on the two highest-performing models, the lightweight, 505-hp (377 kW) Z06 and the maximum-performance, 638-hp (476 kW) supercharged ZR1. They are competition-oriented tires, optimized for warm, dry conditions to increase cornering and handling capability.

When combined with the Corvette’s exclusive Performance Traction Management (PTM) technology – which manages torque delivery for maximum performance – the tires are expected to help set new benchmarks for Corvette performance. Engineers estimate an 8-percent gain in maximum lateral acceleration, to more than 1.1g, and improved braking distance. Testing at Virginia International Raceway has demonstrated improvement of approximately three seconds per lap.

The Cup ZP tires were developed by the same Michelin engineers who develop tires for Corvette Racing in the American Le Mans Series and are essentially streetlegal versions of a racing tire. They are included in the optional Z07 performance package on the Corvette Z06 and a new PDE performance package on the ZR1. The 285/30-19 (front) and 335/25-20 (rear) tires are matched with all-new aluminum Cup-style wheels in satin black or machined finishes. They are about five pounds lighter (2.2 kg) and stronger than the 20-spoke wheel offered in 2011.

Performance Traction Management (offered on the Z06 for the first time in 2012) is an advanced system that optimizes traction for greater and more consistent on-track performance.

PTM also integrates traction control, active handling and selective ride control systems to enhance race track driving consistency and overall performance. When full throttle is applied upon exiting a corner, it automatically manages acceleration dynamics.

A full-width racing style spoiler for improved aerodynamics is also included in both the ’12 Z07 and PDE packages. The Z06 model will now offer Magnetic Selective Ride Control, the world’s fastest-reacting suspension technology – an innovation Corvette pioneered several years ago.

And as before, Brembo carbon ceramic brakes will be a part of the Z07 chassis package (they are standard on ZR1). Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tires remain standard on the ZR1.

A carbon fiber hood will be an available option on 2012 Z06 models, while the standard manual transmission for ZR1 will include taller gearing in fifth and sixth gears, for a 2-mpg improvement in highway fuel economy.

Interior and feature changes All 2012 Corvette models will include a new seat design and a new steering wheel. The seats feature improved appearance and larger bolsters on the seat back and cushion areas, which provide better driver support, especially in high-performance driving while remaining comfortable for daily street driving. Microfiber suede seat inserts are optional and improve tactile feel, as well as add additional support.

The new seats are complemented by the revised steering wheel, featuring model-specific badges, streamlined switch trim and wrapped spokes. Padded center console and armrests for all models are now included for 2012. An additional visual touch inside the car is contrasting color stitching – in red, blue and yellow – which is available with the custom leather wrapped interior.

Also coming in 2012 is a new Bose uplevel audio system, which includes nine speakers (compared to seven in 2011) for improved audio quality that is more precisely tuned to the cabin’s acoustics. New tweeters located in the instrument panel and improved Bose Nd next generation bass performance are the main benefits that Corvette drivers will hear.

A new Technology Package (2LT trim level) brings together many of the Corvette’s popular infotainment features and makes them available for more models. The package’s equipment includes the navigation radio, head-up display, Bose premium audio system, Bluetooth wireless phone connectivity and a USB port.

Wrapping up the new features for 2012 is the availability for customers to select brake caliper colors, for more personalization of their Corvette. The calipers are offered in the red, yellow, silver or gray.

Replica 'General Lee' Part of 14 Vehicle American Muscle Car Exhbiit

2011-04-19T08:55:00.000-07:00

Kelly Ransom has been a Dukes of Hazzard fan since he was five years old. “That was the one night a week Mama would let us eat dinner in the living room,” Ransom said. In fact, Ransom has been dreaming of owning his very own General Lee, a 1969 Dodge Charger, for years, but it wasn’t until 2009 that he started seriously looking into purchasing one.

In July 2010 he ran across one for sale on eBay and the car happened to be in Hendersonville, TN. Ransom said the owner had fallen onto some hard financial times and needed to sell. The owner, Gary Dull, had taken a soft top and slowly transformed it into a replica of the General Lee. The car has the same motor – a 383 – as the real cars used in the show. It also has a three-speed 727 Torquefite transmission, 383 Richmond gears, 8-3/4 sure grip rear axle and “official issue” decals from the Confederate General Lee Fan Club.

Ransom said only 12 General Lees survived the popular late 70s-early 80s show… the rest are replicas.

Ransom, being very community-minded, brings the General to kid’s birthday parties, schools, fundraisers and other public events. “I like to have fun with it,” he said. And unlike other General Lee owners, Ransom doesn’t charge a fee to bring his car out… but he said he won’t turn down gas money! The car gets a whopping 12 miles per gallon.

Monday, April 18 the General found a temporary new home at the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky. The car is part of a 14 vehicle ‘American Muscle Car’ exhibit which runs through Father’s Day weekend in June, however the General Lee will only be on display until May 26. Several hundred Allen County school children will be awaiting its arrival back to Scottsville on May 27 for an event, and Ransom doesn’t want to disappoint the kids.

The 1969 Charger is the first Dodge to be displayed in the Museum. Ransom said “I’m so happy, yet so sad… I’m gonna pretend it is like summer camp.”

Other cars on display include a 1970 Buick Grand Sport Stage 1, 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS, 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Rally Sport Convertible, 1970 Pontiac Ram Air IV Trans Am, 1968 Pontiac GTO, 1968 Oldsmobile 442 Convertible, 1967 Chevrolet Nova SS, 1968 Shelby GT 500, 1969 Javelin SST, 1970 Dodge Challenger, 1970 Plymouth Barracuda and 1966 Plymouth Belvedere. The display is in the Museum’s Exhibit Hall.

The National Corvette Museum is open daily, 8am-5pm Central Time and is located at 350 Corvette Drive, just off I-65 exit 28 in Bowling Green, Kentucky. For more information call 270-781-7973 or visit www.corvettemuseum.org.

Race Fans Can Register to Win a Corvette Starting April 15

2011-04-15T14:41:00.000-07:00

Grand Prize: 2012 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport Convertible, Trip to Le Mans Race fans can enter for a chance to win a 2012 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport Convertible and a trip to Le Mans, France, for the 2012 24 Hours of Le Mans by entering the “Race To Win Corvette” promotion at www.racetowincorvette.com now through June 30, 2011. “‘Race to Win Corvette’ is a tremendous opportunity for a race fan to win one of the most iconic sports cars ever produced, and watch it compete in the oldest and most famous endurance race in the world,” said Terry Dolan, Manager, Chevy Racing. “Team Chevy is proud to partner with the American Le Mans Series, AutoWeek, Michelin and Mobil 1 to help make this racing experience a reality.” No purchase necessary. See official rules for details at www.racetowincorvette.com.

National Corvette Museum Recognizes Other Area Non-Profits

2011-04-13T15:02:00.000-07:00

Museum provides non-profit volunteers free admission April is marked as “Volunteer Appreciation” month and in an effort to recognize fellow non-profit organizations’ hard work and community efforts the National Corvette Museum provided complimentary admission passes as a gift to the volunteers, employees and other members of those organizations. The passes offer a free admission to the “living” Museum which features ever-changing displays and a new Muscle Car exhibit. “As a non-profit organization, we understand the importance of community support,” said Marketing & Communications Manager Katie Frassinelli. “The hard work and dedication that each and every one of the area non-profits unselfishly provides is vital to our community. These passes are a way of saying ‘thank you’ for their contributions that impact so positively on our community.” In 2010, volunteers provided 5,396 hours of service to the National Corvette Museum. In order to “pay it forward”, the Museum provided complimentary passes to over 60 non-profit organizations within Warren County. The National Corvette Museum is dedicated to the mission of celebration, education and preservation, and is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT - located at 350 Corvette Drive, just off exit 28 on I-65 in Bowling Green, KY. For more information contact the Museum at 270-781-7973 or visit www.corvettemuseum.org.

2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette Celebrates Racing Heritage

2011-04-07T12:30:00.000-07:00

Z06 Centennial Edition to be auctioned at Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach sale

Chevrolet, founded by a racing pioneer 100 years ago, celebrates its performance heritage with the 2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette, which features a sleek black color scheme, unique design elements and Corvette’s trademark sports car technology.

The 2012 Centennial Edition package will be available on all Corvette models – including Grand Sport, Z06 and ZR1 – starting this summer.

The special package was inspired by Chevrolet’s racing-bred foundation, which continues with Corvette’s international racing excellence and production sports car prominence.

“Racing and performance are the roots of Chevrolet, a tradition carried forward today by Corvette,” said Rick Scheidt, vice president of Chevrolet marketing. “The Centennial Edition not only celebrates our 100 years, it once again pushes Corvette forward for a new generation of sports car fans.”

Chevrolet will auction a Corvette Z06 Centennial Edition at the Barrett-Jackson collector car auction, in West Palm Beach, Fla., on April 9, with the proceeds to benefit the Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer. It will be the 100th 2012 Corvette off the assembly line, with a vehicle identification number ending in “00100.”

The Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette expresses racing heritage, but does so with a sleek, modern, even sinister-looking appearance. The Centennial Edition package comes exclusively in Carbon Flash Metallic, with satin-black graphics and unique Centennial Satin Black wheels and red brake calipers. The wheels are constructed of lightweight cast-spun aluminum and include a thin red outline around the perimeter of its surface on the Z06. The wheels are specific to the respective Corvette models, including 18-inch/19-inch for Coupe, Convertible and Grand Sport; and 19-inch/20-inch for Z06 and ZR1.

Magnetic Selective Ride Control, the world’s fastest-reacting suspension and a technology advance initiated by Corvette, is included on all Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette models.

The Centennial Edition also features special badges that signify Chevrolet’s racing history. A graphic logo featuring an iconic image of Louis Chevrolet appears on the B-pillars, the center caps of the wheels, and the center of the steering wheel. The seat headrests also carry an embossed centennial logo.

Aficionados will note one other small detail: The historic crossed flags badge contains a small adaptation, with “100” in place of the traditional fleur-de-lis symbol, only for the Centennial Edition.

The exterior color scheme is reinforced inside the car, with the Ebony leather-wrapped instrument panel and doors complimented by red stitching also on the steering wheel, seats, console and shifter. The seats feature microfiber suede accents on seats, steering wheel, shifter and armrests, which were first used on the 2011 Z06 Carbon Limited Edition.

The Chevrolet Centennial Edition will be available on all Corvette models via order code ZLC. Pricing will be released this summer prior to the start of availability. “Louis Chevrolet was a fearless racing pioneer who also designed our first car,” Scheidt said. “Corvette is a natural fit to honor that legacy, while creating a compelling new package for sports car drivers.”

Barrett-Jackson auction details

Chevrolet chose to debut the Centennial Edition Corvette at Barrett-Jackson to enable the auction proceeds to go to the Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer. The foundation supporting children and families dealing with cancer is a key partner with the American Le Mans Series, in which Corvette Racing is an integral participant.

The 2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette Z06 (VIN 100) to be auctioned is based on the production 3LZ model with the Z07 performance package, new Z06 carbon fiber hood and CFZ carbon fiber package, which includes:

• Bose premium sound system, with one-year XM subscription, navigation and USB

• Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity

• Power-adjustable and heated seats

• Memory package, home remote, Head Up Display and power-telescoping steering wheel

• The Custom Leather Wrapped Interior Package, with leather-wrapped upper instrument panels, upper door trim panels and console storage cover and red contrasting stitching

• Z07 performance package, including Brembo ceramic brakes, Magnetic Ride Control and 19-inch/20-inch wheels and Michelin tires

• CFZ package includes carbon fiber rockers, front splitter and roof

• New Carbon Fiber raised hood option for Z06, which was introduced on the 2011 Z06 Carbon Edition.

The winning bidder will also receive the Corvette Engine Build Experience program – which allows Z06 or ZR1 buyers to build their own engine alongside expert technicians – as well as the opportunity to take delivery of the car at the National Corvette Museum, in Bowling Green, Ky.

National Corvette Museum's Insurance Agency Launches New Website

2011-02-09T13:19:00.001-08:00

The NCM Insurance Agency unveiled a redesigned website this week that makes quoting collector car insurance as easy as the click of a button. The redesign allows current customers the opportunity to manage their policies, request ID cards, make policy changes and more. The new site also helps the National Corvette Museum more effectively provide useful information about collector vehicle coverages and offer online tools to facilitate the process for them.

“The previous website had a great nostalgic feel, but failed to provide important and useful information to current and future clients,” said NCM Insurance Agent Adam Boca. “The new website is easier to navigate for visitors and creates a positive experience, with useful Corvette and collector car insurance information in an easy-to-browse format.”

NCM Insurance is provided through American Modern Insurance Group, which offers discounts for eligible Museum Members. “American Modern Insurance Group was founded in 1965 and is a national leader in specialty insurance. The company’s financial stability is rated A+ (Superior) by an independent industry analyst and is acknowledged for its claim service,” according to Dave Seibert, American Modern sales representative.

“What makes NCM unique is its national reach from its vantage point within the National Corvette Museum,” Seibert explained. “It is truly integrated into the history and future of the ‘Corvette culture’ and has leveraged its special knowledge to serve the insurance needs of virtually all collector vehicles. This new website should allow the NCM Insurance Agency to enhance their customers’ experience, and that supports the mission of the Museum.”

Boca said that 100% of the agency’s commissions go to support the Museum. “We want to become a leading provider of Corvette and collector car insurance, and with this new website, we are on the right track,” he said.

NCM Insurance offers insurance plans for owners who drive up to 1K, 3K or 6K miles per year who occasionally drive their cars to enthusiast events, club meetings and on special trips.

“The new website provides free quotes, making it simple to compare your coverage options,” Boca said. “I encourage owners to log on to www.ncminsurance.org to discover what the NCM Insurance Agency has to offer. You can also connect with NCM Insurance on Facebook and Twitter at facebook.com/pages/NCM-Insurance-Agency/225876839230 and twitter.com/NCMInsurance.”

The National Corvette Museum is dedicated to the mission of celebration, education and preservation, and is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT - located at Exit 28 on I-65 in Bowling Green, KY.

Corvette Museum Needs Pepsi Refresh Grant Votes!

2011-01-21T09:50:00.000-08:00

We Need Your Help! Please Vote to Help us Get a Grant!

The National Corvette Museum is competing during the month of January for a $50,000 Pepsi Refresh Grant to develop and build a KidZone within the museum.

The planned KidZone will expose children to ‘real world’ science and math, giving the 146,000 annual visitors to the Museum the chance to educate their children about the automotive industry and how it affects their everyday life. Interior design students from Western Kentucky University worked with museum staff to develop design proposals for the nearly 500 square foot space, incorporating a number of hands-on activities, colors, imagery and themes which focus on the automotive world and Corvette.

Voting began January 2 and concludes on January 31. Voters can vote for up to 10 different projects every day through the Pepsi Refresh website, Facebook and texting.

You can vote EVERY DAY THREE DIFFERENT ways:

VOTE VIA FACEBOOK

•Click the link on this page that says "Vote for this Idea"
•Vote by signing into your Facebook account thru Pepsi. (click here and then sign on to Facebook)
•Be sure and click the Vote button again on our pageafter you are signed in (it will say "Awesome" or "Oh Yeah" on the screen after you vote and won't give you the option to vote again)
•Click the "sign out" button on the bottom to sign out of your Facebook account
VOTE VIA THE PEPSI WEBSITE

•Go to our page again, click the Vote button again, then sign up for a Pepsi account on their site.
•Be sure and Click the Vote button again on our page to register your vote.
VOTING BY TEXT

•Text 105439 to PEPSI (73774) (no charge to do this, other than your normal text plan). If you have texting on your phone, the phone number you send the text to is 73774, and the message is 105439.
PLEASE vote via each method once per day. Voting ends January 31. PLEASE share this with all your friends and family so we can get the $50,000 to build the KidZone!

If you are on Facebook, you can go to our Fan Page and click the “Share” button under the Pepsi Refresh link to make it post to your wall.
http://www.refresheverything.com/corvette

Corvette Museum Welcomes 'From Here to There' Science Exhibit

2011-01-17T06:50:00.000-08:00

Explore the science of how things move by land, sea and air at the National Corvette Museum’s new traveling exhibition, From Here to There, open now through April 16.

Lift, launch and levitate as you experiment with hands-on exhibits that make learning about gravity, friction, and the laws of motion fun. Ride a hovercraft to experience how air pressure works, adjust wind speed to form fabric into an airfoil, and float your sailboat to experiment with the effect of wind, rudder and sail positions.

Visitors can turn up the heat to launch a colorful hot air balloon, operate an authentic canal lock system to move a boat from one water level to the next, and experiment with pneumatics, pulleys, hydraulics and levers to see what kind of mechanical advantage works best.

From Here to There consists of twelve fun, interactive exhibits. “Each exhibit is designed to spark conversation and encourage interaction among families, friends and other museum visitors,” said Katie Frassinelli, Marketing Manager.

The 1,500 square foot exhibition is color-coded and divided into three main categories: transportation by land, sea and air.

At the Earthmovers exhibit, visitors can discover how simple machines can help move things across land. This ball-pit is fun for all ages, but is designed with the museum’s youngest visitors in mind.

Air Tubes allow visitors to send colored balls in a rushing channel of air from one station to another. Visitors can watch the balls as they dart across walls, over the exhibition entrance, and appear at the other station in record time.

In addition to exhibits like Waterways and Set Sail that explore transportation by water, visitors will have the opportunity to interact with exhibits that explain the principals of how things move.

Visitors can Feel the Friction as they try to move different weights across dirt, tracks and through water and Start Your Engines! to explore how internal combustion engines work to power anything from cars and airplanes to lawnmowers and snow blowers.

“We’re excited to bring this hands-on exhibit to Bowling Green,” said Kevin Carrico, PNC Regional Manager. “PNC’s Grow Up Great program offers educational opportunities to children everywhere, and From Here to There has activities families not only from south central Kentucky can enjoy, but also the many visitors who pass through our wonderful community.”

This exhibition will be on display through April 16, 2011 in the Museum’s Exhibit Hall. Discount tickets are available for the public at any Warren County PNC branch. Additionally, PNC customers may show a bankcard to receive discount admission.

The Rochester Museum & Science Center of Rochester, NY and the Sciencenter of Ithaca, NY developed From Here to There as part of the Traveling Exhibits At Museums of Science (TEAMS) collaborative. Funded by a grant from the National Science Foundation, From Here to There is sponsored locally by PNC.

The National Corvette Museum is a 501 (c)(3) educational non-profit organization located at I-65, exit 28 in Bowling Green, Kentucky. The Museum is open daily from 8am to 5pm CT.

Based in Pittsburgh, PA, PNC operates more than 2,400 branches and 6,500 ATMs in 15 states and the District of Columbia. Warren County offers five branches and 8 ATMs for your banking needs. PNC’s Grow Up Great program is a 10-year, $100 million investment in school readiness to help prepare children from birth to age five for success in school and life.

National Corvette Museum to Auction VIN 001 - 2011 Special Edition Le Mans Z06 Corvette at Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale

2011-01-12T11:36:00.000-08:00

Tribute Car to Benefit Planned Motorsports Park

2010 marked the 50th anniversary celebration of Corvette’s first appearance and win at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and to celebrate that significant occasion Chevrolet built a special 2011 Corvette Z06, donning the same Arctic White paint, blue racing stripes and number “3” as the car it pays homage to… the 1960 Cunningham Corvette which won its class 50 years ago.

Bidders at the 2011 Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction will get a unique and rare opportunity to own this true one-of-a-kind Corvette on Friday, January 21 when it hits the auction block in support of the National Corvette Museum. Proceeds from the auction will benefit the Museum’s planned Motorsports Park – a nearly 500 acre facility complete with road courses, autocross course, skid pad, karting track and drag strip.

In celebration of the 50th Anniversary, the 2011 tribute Corvette participated in a Legends of Le Mans event with a memorable parade lap at Laguna Seca alongside three historic Le Mans cars (1960 Cunningham, 1967 Bondurant/Guldstrand, 1973 BF Goodrich) as well as the Corvette C6.R GT2 car. The car has also been used for a number of other publicity functions including the first public showing at the Corvette Museum’s C5/C6 Bash April 30, ALMS Races at Utah, Lime Rock, Mid-Ohio and Road America, Corvettes at Carlisle and finally the NCM Hall of Fame event. The car is autographed by racing legends and Corvette Hall of Fame members Dick Guldstrand, John Fitch and Dick Thompson as well as the 2010 Corvette Racing drivers Johnny O’Connell, Oliver Gavin, Olivier Beretta and Jan Magnussen.

In addition to being a tribute car, Chevrolet with the help of GM’s Design Center added special one-off features to this production Corvette Z06 which is also the first saleable 2011 Z06 Corvette with VIN 001, manufactured on April 19 in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Features include Competition Gray headlamps, mirrors and wheels; heritage 1960 style blue split stripes and #3 door numbers; special 50th Anniversary of Le Mans Racing logos; blue brake calipers; Z07 Performance Package with Brembo carbon ceramic brakes, 19” front / 20” rear 20-spoke competition gray wheels, Michelin PS2 tires, and Magnetic Selective Ride Control; black carbon fiber front splitter and rockers; ZR1 style rear spoiler; ebony leather wrapped interior with Competition Gray trim; LS7 7.0 I 427 ci 505 hp small-block V8 with dry sump system, titanium components; 6-speed manual transmission with launch control; carbon fiber fenders and floor panels; and an aluminum frame structure and magnesium engine cradle.

The Corvette is listed on the Barrett-Jackson website at: http://www.barrett-jackson.com/application/onlinesubmission/lotdetails.aspx?aid=403&ln=1032&pop=0&it=1 and the auction of this car will be televised live on the Speed Network between 7 and 9pm MST. The National Corvette Museum will be in attendance at the show with a booth by the General Motors area to answer any questions about the car and offer Corvette merchandise and raffle tickets for purchase.

Download a hero card about the car here:
http://www.corvettemuseum.com/lemansauctioncar.pdf
Download a fact sheet here:
http://www.corvettemuseum.com/lemansfactsheet.pdf
View high res images of the car here:
http://picasaweb.google.com/corvettemuseum/2011SpecialZ06#
View a short video of the car here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ATyrea7Qv4

The National Corvette Museum is the ‘Gateway to All Things Corvette’ and a member-driven, 501(c)(3) non-profit foundation. Weekly news on the latest Corvette developments, racing updates, event features and raffles are available by subscribing to “NCM eNews” at: corvettemuseum.org/ncmenews. Dedicated to the mission of celebration, education and preservation, the Museum is open seven days a week, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT - located at Exit 28 on I-65 in Bowling Green, KY.

National Corvette Museum in Running for Pepsi Refresh Grant

2011-01-04T11:20:00.000-08:00

The National Corvette Museum is competing during the month of January for a $50,000 Pepsi Refresh Grant to develop and build a KidZone within the museum. In 2010, Pepsi launched the Pepsi Refresh Project, awarding over $20 million in grants to over 400 ideas, and this project is one of 1,000 ideas submitted and approved nation-wide for the final round of voting.

The planned KidZone will expose children to ‘real world’ science and math, giving the 146,000 annual visitors to the Museum the chance to educate their children about the automotive industry and how it affects their everyday life. Interior design students from Western Kentucky University worked with museum staff to develop design proposals for the nearly 500 square foot space, incorporating a number of hands-on activities, colors, imagery and themes which focus on the automotive world and Corvette.

Each round, Pepsi awards two $250,000 grants, ten $50,000 grants, ten $25,000 grants and ten $5,000 grants. Grant categories include health, arts & culture, food & shelter, the planet, neighborhoods and education. Voting began January 2 and concludes on January 31. Voters can vote for up to 10 different projects every day through the Pepsi Refresh website, Facebook and texting.

To learn more about the National Corvette Museum’s KidZone project, visit http://www.refresheverything.com/corvette. You can also vote when you visit this site by clicking the VOTE link, then logging in to your Facebook account from the Pepsi page to vote, or sign-up for a free Pepsi Refresh account. To vote by phone, text 105439 to 73774. There is no charge to vote other than your normal text messaging rates.

The National Corvette Museum is the ‘Gateway to All Things Corvette’ and a member-driven, 501(c)(3) non-profit foundation. Weekly news on the latest Corvette developments, racing updates, event features and raffles are available by subscribing to “NCM eNews” at: corvettemuseum.org/ncmenews. Dedicated to the mission of celebration, education and preservation, the Museum is open seven days a week, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT - located at Exit 28 on I-65 in Bowling Green, KY.

National Corvette Museum Announces 2011 Hall of Fame Inductees

2010-12-09T13:03:00.000-08:00

The National Corvette Museum has announced the following inductees to be recognized as part of the 14th Annual Corvette Hall of Fame Ceremony in 2011. Ron Fellows, a champion driver for Corvette Racing, Clare “Mac” MacKichan, a key designer for the first and other early Corvettes, and Ray Quinlan, donor of a 1953 Corvette to the Museum taking the project from an archives facility to museum will be recognized with the highest honor bestowed by the Museum for their contributions to the past, present and future of Corvette.

The 2011 Hall of Fame recipients will be inducted into the Corvette Hall of Fame during a ceremony and banquet on Friday, September 2, 2011. Their induction will take place as part of the Museum’s 17th Anniversary Corvette Celebration festivities September 1-3, 2011.

Corvette Hall of Fame Inductee Ron Fellows’ impressive skill as a driver for the Corvette Racing Team has earned him the respect of Corvette fans everywhere. His 27 wins, three ALMS championships and two wins at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, along with his unprecedented four consecutive "Most Popular Driver" awards from ALMS fans, testify to his track record of success. Although he has not raced for the factory team since 2008, he remains one of the most recognizable, respected and popular personalities to ever represent Corvette's racing heritage. As evidence of his enormous popularity, GM paid tribute to Ron by creating the "Ron Fellows ALMS GT1 Champion Corvette Z06" in 2007.

While he still races in NASCAR events and is tied with Terry Labonte for the most road course wins in NASCAR history, Ron has served as an advisor for the GM/Pratt & Miller factory team and an ambassador for Corvette in general, showing up at races, Corvette Corrals, Corvette functions and charities, often auctioning off passes to the Ron Fellows Driving School for worthwhile causes.

Corvette Hall of Fame Inductee Clare “Mac” MacKichan was instrumental to the design and success of all Chevrolets in the mid-twentieth century. In his position as Chief Designer of the Chevrolet Studio, General Motors Design Staff, he was directly responsible for the design of all of the Corvettes from number one, through the 1950s and early 1960s. It was under his guidance that the 1954 Waldorf Show Corvettes were designed. In addition to his position as Chief Designer for Chevrolet, Mac also served as Director of Design for GM's Adam Opel AG in Germany, and later as Executive in Charge of Advanced Design and Engineering for Design Staff.

While he didn't always work on the Corvette brand, he continued to own one and participate in many Corvette activities - appearing and speaking at car shows and event all over the country. He would even decorate his office with parts of Corvettes that had been thrown away. Mac bought Corvettes and truly loved having a role in the creation and evolution of America’s sports car, even though it was unrecognized due to Harley Earl’s policy of giving credit only to himself, and later to Bill Mitchell. Sadly, Mac passed away but his contributions to the Corvette live on.

Corvette Hall of Fame Inductee Ray Quinlan is probably the first Museum enthusiast, and it's fair to say the Museum might not be where it is today without the support of this NCM Lifetime Member No. 001. When the idea of a Corvette Library & Archives first came about, it was Ray who came forward and said he would donate his 1953 Corvette if the plans would incorporate a Museum... a place to house not only historical documents but also artifacts and cars. Memberships were the sole means of raising money in the early days, and Ray was right there, joining at the beginning.

While Ray owned a number of collectible cars, Corvettes were his passion. He was a member of the Corvette Club of Illinois and active with the National Council of Corvette Clubs and National Corvette Restorers Society. Ray always loved the Museum and all it represented, talking to visitors that were looking at the 1953 on display and sharing with them the history. Today, every visitor passing through the halls of the Museum hears the story of Ray and how his donation started the Museum.

The National Corvette Museum established the Corvette Hall of Fame in 1998 to confer the highest honor and recognition upon the most influential individuals in the history of the Corvette. The award recognizes those who have made significant contributions to their respective fields, each having reached the highest level of accomplishment. Inductees must also reflect the highest standards of integrity and character to positively enhance the prestige of the Corvette and the National Corvette Museum.

Additional information on reserving a spot at the prestigious Corvette Hall of Fame banquet will be available in the coming months via our website at: www.corvettemuseum.org or can be obtained by subscribing to our weekly eNewsletter “NCM eNews” at: http://www.corvettemuseum.org/ncmenews/.

The National Corvette Museum is the ‘Gateway to All Things Corvette’ and a member-driven, 501(c)(3) non-profit foundation. Weekly news on the latest Corvette developments, racing updates, event features and raffles are available by subscribing to “NCM eNews” at: corvettemuseum.org/ncmenews. Dedicated to the mission of celebration, education and preservation, the Museum is open seven days a week, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT - located at Exit 28 on I-65 in Bowling Green, KY.

Corvette Museum Offers $1 Admission for Kentucky Residents

2010-11-30T13:18:00.000-08:00

The National Corvette Museum has named the entire month of December “Dollar Days” for residents of Kentucky who visit the Museum. All month long, Kentucky residents can tour the Museum for a $1.00 admission per person, and will only need to show a Kentucky drivers license to take advantage of the special offer. Children will be admitted at the $1.00 price with adults presenting the Kentucky identification.

The Museum features over 70 Corvettes, from the 1953 - the first Corvette to capture the hearts of America, to one-of-a-kind prototypes, the only 1983 in existence and historic Corvettes normally unavailable to the general public. A special Camaro exhibit with more than a dozen examples of the model is on display throughout December as well. Visitors can sit behind the wheel of a new Corvette and Camaro, race against the clock with the interactive Pit Crew Challenge, and take a drive in the new educational Driving Simulators.

“Dollar Days” is the Museum’s way of giving back to Kentucky residents to thank them for their support and gives them an opportunity to see first-hand why the Corvette is one of the state’s greatest resources and now the official state sports car of Kentucky. “We are proud to be able to showcase our Museum dedicated to this extraordinary automobile and celebrate, educate and preserve Corvette’s legendary past and future,” states NCM Executive Director Wendell Strode. “Each visit to the Museum is different because things are ever changing, and guests visiting in December will be able to see our new Camaro display. We look forward to welcoming our Kentucky friends.” Visitors can also take a chance to win a 2011 Corvette or Camaro for only $10 and do some holiday shopping in the Corvette Store.

The National Corvette Museum is the ‘Gateway to All Things Corvette’ and a member-driven, 501(c)(3) non-profit foundation. Weekly news on the latest Corvette developments, racing updates, event features and raffles are available by subscribing to “NCM eNews” at: corvettemuseum.org/ncmenews. Dedicated to the mission of celebration, education and preservation, the Museum is open seven days a week, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT - located at Exit 28 on I-65 in Bowling Green, KY.

Corvette Museum to Offer Limited Edition Z06 Carbon Raffle

2010-11-18T15:24:00.001-08:00

Car is one of only 500 to be built.

The automotive world received an exciting announcement this year when information was released on the new 2011 Corvette Z06 Carbon Limited Edition. The car represents the latest track-to-street technology transfer, and with only 500 to be produced it is sure to be on every Corvette lover’s holiday wish list this year.

“Designed to further incorporate technology developed through racing, the Corvette Z06 Carbon Limited Edition is a tribute to the 50th anniversary of Corvette’s first race in the 24 Hours of LeMans,” said Jim Campbell, Chevrolet General Manager. “With a limited production of 500 units, this car is a must-have for the true Corvette collector and driving enthusiast.”

The National Corvette Museum is offering the chance for someone to win one of these cars through a fundraising raffle. The car, a Supersonic Blue Carbon Edition Z06, VIN #03 AND the FIRST production Carbon Edition in Supersonic Blue, will be raffled on Thursday, January 13, 2011 at 2pm CT. Winner need not be present to win and as with most Museum raffles there are a limited number of tickets available. Chances to win this collector car are $300 each, with only 1,000 tickets available.

“For track use, the Z06 Carbon is the best balanced Corvette yet. It combines the lightweight and naturally-aspirated Z06 engine with the road-holding and braking of the ZR1,” said Tadge Juechter, Corvette Chief Engineer. “For technical tracks like Laguna Seca, the Z06 Carbon could shave up to three seconds off the Z06 lap time.”

This limited edition Z06 boasts Brembo carbon ceramic brakes with specific dark gray metallic calipers and black 20-spoke 19-inch front/20-inch rear wheels complementing the car’s Michelin PS2 tires. Other mechanical features include Magnetic Selective Ride Control for the first time on the Z06 and enhanced cooling. The car also features a special carbon pattern engine cover.

Exterior features include black headlamps and mirrors, a ZR1-style body color spoiler, body color door handles, carbon fiber raised hood and black carbon fiber rockers and splitter.

The Z06 Carbon’s ebony leather and suede interior is complemented by blue seat stitching to match the exterior. Other features include a unique steering wheel emblem, sill plate and logoed headrest. The car has all the options, and MSRP is $99,925.

Tickets are available online at corvettemuseum.org/raffle or by phone during normal business hours at 800-538-3883. The winner will be contacted by phone following the drawing, and raffle winners are posted on the Museum’s website at corvettemuseum.org/raffle_winners/. “Our raffle fundraisers offer a chance to make someone a Corvette owner and truly benefit the Museum in many ways,” states NCM Executive Director, Wendell Strode. “We look forward to welcoming another raffle winner to the Museum to take delivery.”

GM Corvette Assembly Plant Begins Development of New Onsite Wildlife Habitat

2010-11-08T14:40:00.000-08:00

Plant Manager Dave Tatman and UAW Chairman Shane Colvard Plant Tree Together

For 29 years, the General Motors Bowling Green Corvette Plant has been committed to actions that restore and preserve the environment while building America’s favorite sports car – the Chevrolet Corvette. The Corvette Plant continues to demonstrate its commitment to the environment through its development of a new 75-acre onsite Wildlife Habitat, which will be open to the public in the spring of 2011. At 9:00 am on Friday, November 12, 2010, Plant Manager Dave Tatman and UAW Local 2164 Chairman Shane Colvard will join together to plant the second tree on the habitat. The first tree was planted by WKU’s very own Big Red in conjunction with the plant’s WKU Red is Green partnership.

The Wildlife Habitat project will be broken up into three phases over the next three years:

Phase A began September 27, 2010 and is estimated for completion in spring 2011. Approximately 25 acres will be bush hogged and disked for the grasses and tree planting areas. The initial planting of 400 saplings will be utilized as buffer zones. A driveway and parking area with picnic tables will be placed at the entrance.

Phase B is estimated for completion in spring 2012. During this phase shelters will be placed over the picnic tables, a one-mile walking/running trail will be made, and old tank saddles will be removed. Endangered species will be transplanted into the habitat, and the construction for wetlands will be initiated.

Phase C is estimated for completion in spring 2013. During Phase C the wetland will be constructed, and an additional 12 acres will be planted with wildflower and grasses - bringing the total planted area to 37 acres. The parking lot will expand as needed, and solar technology enhancements will be made. There will be a sink hole path and viewing location for education and Geological purposes.

The Corvette Plant is open to allowing the community to use the Wildlife Habitat for projects and educational purposes. Plant Manager Dave Tatman has been a part of this type of important environmental venture before, although on a much smaller scale. Tatman says, “The Corvette Plant is excited to begin work on the habitat and to give back to the community by opening this natural environment to the public. The opportunities are endless with a habitat like this. We want area schools to bring their classes to the habitat for outdoor teaching sessions. We invite local groups, such as Boy and Girl Scouts, to use the habitat for tree planting projects, restoration of habitat and native wildflowers and grasses, construction of bird/bat houses and butterfly habitats, and more.”

According to Tim Bartee, District Conservationist with the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), “The diversity this project will provide will not only be an eye appealing wildlife habitat but will be an excellent resource for educational projects due to the karst geology and cave systems we have in central Kentucky. The project involves cultivating a wildlife habitat and public education - both important to our agency mission of Helping People Help the Land.”

If you have ideas or would like to help with the Wildlife Habitat, please contact Olin Desonier, GM Corvette Plant environmental engineer, at 392-6457.

National Corvette Museum Offers "Free Admission" to Recognize U.S. Military, Fire Fighters and Police During "Military Appreciation Month"

2010-11-03T08:08:00.000-07:00

The National Corvette Museum would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank the many men and women who have served, and are serving our country.

November is "Military Appreciation Month" at the National Corvette Museum and all military personnel, firemen, police officers and their immediate families will receive "Free Admission" during the entire month of November. All branches including active, retired and reserve members will be honored with free admission when presenting a military or service ID or copy of their DD-214.

"We are truly a blessed nation and our military provide the safety we have to enjoy our American privileges," states NCM Executive Director, Wendell Strode. "Corvette is an American icon and we invite these special individuals and their family members to experience a tour of the Museum dedicated to America’s favorite sports car."

In addition to free admission, this year will be even more special as the Museum has added some displays and activities to enhance the experience.

3rd Annual Vets ‘n Vettes Event – November 4-6, 2010
Regular Registration $10
While many of the participants will have a Corvette, owning one is certainly not a requirement to participate! The event features road tours, a poker run, warrior session BBQ luncheon, military history team trivia, participation in the Bowling Green, Kentucky Veteran’s Day Parade, presentation of colors by WKU's ROTC, seminars and a banquet.

Special Displays and Activities

- Military vehicle displays provided by the Kentucky National Guard Nov. 4-6: himar, resupply vehicle,and rigid wall shelter. Representatives from the Kentucky National Guard will be on-site to tell visitors about the vehicles, answer questions and even let visitors sit in them They will also perform himar demonstrations at 10am, 11am, 1pm, and 2pm.

- Memorial circle on the Museum's front lawn. Purchase a flag for $1 to place in memory or in honor of someone. The names of those who the flags represent continuously scroll on the lobby television monitor.

- Aviation Heritage Park, a local group who acquire and restore military aircraft for display at Basil Griffin Park in Bowling Green, has display cases of memorabilia on Corvette Boulevard.

- Flag raising ceremonies available by reservation. Guests can reserve a day to bring a loved one’s American Flag and the Museum and National Guard will perform a ceremony, raising and flying their flag at the Corvette Museum. Reserve your spot by calling Pam at 270-467-8800 or email pam@corvettemuseum.org.

- Holiday greeting cards are available for people to write messages for the troops. The cards will be sent overseas in late November. In addition, for only $5 you can purchase a family admission pass to the Museum to send to the troops overseas so that they can visit with their family upon their return.

THANKS FOR EVERYTHING YOU DO TO PROTECT OUR FREEDOM!

Open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT, the Museum is located at Exit 28 on I-65 in Bowling Green, KY. For more information on the Museum visit us at:
http://www.corvettemuseum.org/ or call 800-538-3883.

National Corvette Museum and Historic Railpark & Train Museum Offer Free Child Admission with Kid-Friendly Food Donation

2010-10-04T09:07:00.000-07:00

Promotion to Benefit Feeding America: Kentucky's Heartland Adopt-A-BackPacker Program

Have you ever had to go a day without food? Two days? Many school children in Kentucky do just that. Feeding America: Kentucky's Heartland, based in Elizabethtown, has what's known as 'Adopt a BackPacker'... a program where the organization prepare bags of food each week, with at least eight kid-friendly food items, that are discreetly placed in the child’s backpack each Friday by their teacher while the kids are at recess or lunch.

The mission of Kentucky’s Heartland is “to meet the needs of hungry children by providing them with nutritious and easy-to-prepare food to take home on weekends and school vacations when other resources are not available.”

The foods are all easy to prepare and nutritious, like pop-top soups, peanut butter crackers, cereal bars, pudding cups, juice boxes and other nutritious foods. Children who don’t get enough food do not perform well academically, display unacceptable behavior and have poor attendance due to illness or other reasons that are unexcused.

The National Corvette Museum and Historic Railpark and Train Museum in Bowling Green are helping to create awareness and support of this program by accepting donations of these items October 1 - 11. Visitors donating a food item will receive free child admission (or $2 off adult admission) to that museum.

The National Corvette Museum is located at I-65, exit 28 and is open daily, 8am to 5pm. Learn more at http://www.corvettemuseum.org/ or call 270-781-7973. The Historic Railpark and Train Museum is located at I-65, exit 26 and is open Monday through Saturday, 9am to 5pm, and Sunday 1-4pm. Visit their website at http://www.historicrailpark.com/ or call 270-745-7317. Both the National Corvette Museum and Historic Railpark and Train Museum are 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations.

You can also learn more about the Adopt-a-BackPacker program at http://www.feedingamericaky.org/. The program services 30 Kentucky counties.

National Corvette Museum Offers Free Admission on Smithsonian Magazine's 6th Annual Museum Day

2010-09-15T14:07:00.001-07:00

12 Museums in Kentucky Signed Up to Participate

On Saturday, September 25, 2010, the National Corvette Museum will participate in the sixth annual Smithsonian Magazine Museum Day. The Corvette Museum will join participating museums and cultural institutions nationwide to open their doors free of charge to all visitors who download the Museum Day Ticket from Smithsonian.com. A journey to celebrate our world’s dynamic heritage and cultural life, participating Museum Day venues emulate the free admission policy of the Smithsonian Institution’s Washington, D.C.-based facilities.

Museum Day 2010 is poised to be the largest to date, outdoing last year’s record-breaking event. Over 300,000 museum-goers and 1,300 venues in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico participated in Museum Day 2009. Last year, two million visitors logged on to www.smithsonian.com/museumday to learn more about the program.

“This year’s Museum day we are also the host facility for the final BiG Cruise of the year, so visitors will get to see not only over 80 unique Corvettes – but also some hot rods,” said Katie Frassinelli, Museum Marketing Manager.

Visitors will also enjoy new hands-on, interactive exhibits, the Corvette Café, Corvette Store, Conference Center, plus the chance to sit in a Corvette and even register to drive one home.

Other participating Kentucky museums include: Frazier International History Museum (Louisville), Headley-Whitney Museum (Lexington), Kentucky Gateway Museum Center (Maysville), Kentucky Historical Society (Frankfort), Liberty Hall Historic Site (Frankfort), Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory (Louisville), McCreary County Museum (Stearns), McDowell House Museum and Apothecary (Danville), Perryville Battlefield State Historic Site Museum (Perryville), The Speed Art Museum (Louisville) and Wickliffe Mounds State Historic Site (Wickliffe).

The Museum Day Ticket is available to download at www.smithsonian.com/museumday. Visitors who present the official pass will gain free admission for two people to participating museums and cultural venues. One ticket is permitted per household, per email address. Listings and links to participating museums’ and sponsors’ sites can be found at www.smithsonian.com/museumday.

Camaro Exhibit Coming to Corvette Museum this Fall

2010-09-13T13:50:00.000-07:00

Transformers 'star' Bumblebee scheduled to make an appearance

While you can see over 80 unique and rare Corvettes on display at the National Corvette Museum anytime, the Museum will also welcome some cool Camaros for your viewing pleasure this fall. October 1 through December 31 the Museum’s exhibit hall will include a dozen unique, fast and even rare examples of Corvette’s younger sibling.

Those who remember John Schnatter’s search for his long lost Camaro, (founder of Papa John’s Pizza) will enjoy seeing it on display as part of the exhibit. Schnatter had sold his beloved 1971 ½ Camaro Z28 in 1983 when his father’s tavern was on the verge of closing because of a bankruptcy. With the $2,800 he received for the car he was able to save their business and later launched the Papa John’s pizza empire. Schnatter says that for 26 years he wanted the car back, and in 2009 by offering a finder’s fee of $25,000 and $250,000 to purchase the car John was re-united with the Camaro.

Joining Papa John’s car is PGA golfer Kenny Perry’s 1969 Camaro, a 2001 Dale Earnhardt Camaro (1 of only 81 made), a 1987 1LE Prototype, a 2010 Indy 500 Pace Car, a 1968 Big Block plus several more head-turners.

Of course, the icing on the Camaro cake will come October 18-28 when the Museum welcomes “Bumblebee,” star of the Transformers films. The Camaro is one of the actual “autobots” used in the first and second Transformers movies (2007 and 2009), driven by actors Shia LaBeouf and Megan Fox. The third film is currently in production and is set to release July 1, 2011 in 3-D.

Camaro lovers will have the opportunity to not only sit behind the wheel of a new Camaro, but also register to take one home! The Museum will be holding a fundraising raffle for a 2011 Black Camaro SS/RS and chances are only $10 each. The car features black leather interior, LS3 – 6.2L V8 engine with 426 horsepower, 6-speed manual transmission, silver stripe package, Hurst short-throw shifter, 20” aluminum polished wheels and more. The prize also includes a voucher to participate in a Bondurant 3-Day Driving School, valued at over $4,000! The drawing will be held in February of 2011 at the National Corvette Museum.

For the full Camaro-experience, a one-day Camaro/Firebird Classic event is planned during the exhibit. Saturday, October 23 will be packed with autocross, drag racing, a car show, poker run, BBQ lunch and more. Participant registration is all-inclusive at just $50 per person. Spectators/guests can pay just $20 for the lunch and museum admission. Event credential pick-up begins at 8am.

For more information on the exhibit and event, visit our website at http://www.corvettemuseum.org or call (800) 538-3883. The National Corvette Museum is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the Corvette’s past, present and future. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT, the Museum is located at Exit 28 on I-65 in Bowling Green, KY.

Calling All Cars! Kentucky State Police Team Up With National Corvette Museum to Offer Scenic Road Tour

2010-08-24T13:32:00.000-07:00

Kentucky is known for horses, bourbon and history… but October 12-16, 2010 participants of a first-ever scenic Kentucky road tour will get to experience more than just that. The National Corvette Museum has teamed up with the Kentucky State Police to lead a fundraising event like no other – taking participants to some of the most popular attractions and best dining the Bluegrass State has to offer. The proceeds from the event will benefit both the National Corvette Museum, a 501(c)(3) non-profit foundation, and the Kentucky State Police’s Trooper Island Camp, a free of charge, weeklong experience designed to help underprivileged kids age 10-12 develop their self image, build healthy eating and exercise habits, provide spiritual growth and further mental capabilities.

“The ‘One Lap of Kentucky’ Event is a great way to spend some time seeing the many wonderful sites our state has to offer,” said Kentucky State Police Commissioner Rodney Brewer. “The Kentucky State Police are excited to be a part of the event and are honored that a portion of the registration will benefit Trooper Island. Since 1965, the island has been run entirely on donations. It is from the generous contributions of people across this great state and beyond that we are able to continue to operate this magical place,” he added.

The road tour begins on Wednesday, October 13, departing from the National Corvette Museum down US-68/KY-80 to the Shaker Museum at South Union, the Jefferson Davis Monument, Metalsa Factory (formerly Dana) in Hopkinsville to see how Corvette frames are made and on to lunch at the Pennyrile State Park. The day continues with a visit to the “Land Between the Lakes” with dinner at Patti’s 1880’s Settlement in Grand Rivers and overnight at Kentucky Dam State Park Lodge.

Thursday takes the group to Paducah with visits to the Dippin’ Dots factory and Quilt Museum, time to browse Lowertown ending with dinner at the famous Moonlite BBQ in Owensboro. Friday includes a tour of the International Bluegrass Museum, taking the Kentucky backroads to Rough River State Park for lunch and wrapping up with visits to Churchill Downs and the Derby Museum in Louisville.

The trip comes to a close on Saturday with visits to the Louisville Slugger Factory and Museum, including a souvenir of your own custom bat, shopping and lunch at the Whistlestop Café in Glendale and finishing back at the National Corvette Museum. While caravanning is a signature Corvette activity, this road tour welcomes all makes and models of cars.

“Corvettes share a common passion for road tours, and we feel by hosting this tour with the Kentucky State Police this passion will rub off on others,” said Roc Linkov, Events Manager at the National Corvette Museum. “What better time to explore Kentucky than the fall!”

The tour fee is $625 for the driver, and $225 for their guest. The fee includes lodging for three nights, lunch on three days, admission to all attractions and dinner the first two nights. Registration closes October 4. For more information on the ‘One Lap of Kentucky’ Road Tour, visit our website at http://www.corvettemuseum.org/ or call (800) 538-3883. The National Corvette Museum is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the Corvette’s past, present and future. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT, the Museum is located at Exit 28 on I-65 in Bowling Green, KY.

National Corvette Museum to Raffle Special Edition Corvette at 2010 World Equestrian Games in Lexington, KY

2010-08-05T13:37:00.000-07:00

While the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games will bring a lot of horses to Kentucky, the National Corvette Museum in conjunction with the Kentucky Department of Travel will bring a lot of horsepower to the games as well.

One lucky fan will get a high powered ‘souvenir’ to bring home from the games. On Sunday, October 10 a raffle drawing will be held at 12pm ET at the Kentucky Experience of the World Equestrian Games for a special edition 2010 Crystal Red Grand Sport Corvette Convertible. The car, VIN 14, has a strong Corvette show history and was used by Chevrolet to promote the new Grand Sport all over the country. In addition, Chevrolet's design team has made a few special, custom modifications to make it truly a collectible car, including special ‘one off’ centerstack and steering wheel finish, unique center console leather wrap, special detail on the steering wheel center and special rear badge and windshield decal.

“This is definitely a collectible Corvette with a rich history,” said Harlan Charles, Chevrolet Corvette Product Marketing Manager. “We’ve selected a special low VIN Corvette which has traveled the country with us at Chevrolet to promote the new Grand Sport model. Our designers have also made a few special modifications to the car, making it truly one-of-a-kind,” he added.

The Corvette will be on display by the Welcome Center of the Kentucky Experience during the 16 days of the event. In addition, a Corvette that visitors can try on for size will be located within the ‘Caves, Lakes, Corvettes’ section of the Kentucky Experience, making a perfect photo op for visitors.

“Bowling Green, Kentucky is the only place in the world Corvettes are manufactured,” said Mike Cooper, Commissioner of the Department of Travel. “It is only fitting that we offer one up for raffle so that an event attendee has the opportunity to bring a little piece of Kentucky back home with them.”

Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear just this summer signed into law a bill designating Corvette as the official state sports car. "Sports car enthusiasts have been in love with the Corvette since it was first unveiled in the Motorama show in New York in 1953," said Gov. Beshear. "For nearly 30 years, Kentucky has been the exclusive home of this iconic sports car. We proudly honor this fine example of American ingenuity by designating the Corvette as Kentucky's official state sports car."

Both the General Motors Corvette Assembly Plant and National Corvette Museum are located in Bowling Green, Kentucky at I-65, exit 28. “I can’t think of a better piece of Kentucky craftsmanship and engineering to showcase at the games,” said Wendell Strode, Executive Director at the National Corvette Museum. “Who doesn’t get revved up and ready for action when they see a Corvette?”

Tickets for this one-of-a-kind raffle are only $20 each, and an unlimited number of tickets are available. They can be purchased at the Welcome Center of the Kentucky Experience, the National Corvette Museum and online at corvettemuseum.org/raffle. Additional information about this exciting car is also available online at corvettemuseum.org/ky.

The National Corvette Museum is a 501(c)(3) educational non-profit organization which celebrates, educates and preserves the past, present and future of Corvette. The Museum is open daily from 8am to 5pm CT.

National Corvette Museum to Host Corvette Pace Car Reunion September 22-25, 2010

2010-07-30T12:40:00.000-07:00

Without a doubt, this year’s Pace Car Reunion offers some of the most exciting activities in the history of the event. The National Corvette Museum’s Pace Car Reunion celebrates Corvette’s legendary showing as a ten-time pace car for the Indy 500. Owners of the highly valued 1978, 1986, 1995, 1998, 2002, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008 Indy Pace Corvettes will be in attendance, as well as Parade Corvettes, Brickyard 400 Pace Cars, Daytona 500 Pace Cars and a multitude of others.

Event participants will begin gathering on Wednesday, September 22, kicking off with a private group tour of the Corvette Assembly Plant and a visit with new BGAP Manager Dave Tatman, an update on the Motorsports Park and a guided tour of the Museum. Shortly afterward a lunch and a gathering of the cars will be staged along the front drive in preparation for the caravan to Indianapolis, the spiritual home of Corvette Pace Cars.

Thursday morning brings a full day of activities in Indianapolis starting with a tour of the Chip Ganassi /Target Racing team garage, a garage which normally does not provide tours. This is followed by a trip to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Speedway Hall of Fame Museum, and the Ray Skillman Car Collection - a large private collection of all kinds of cars and automobile memorabilia. The day closes out with a visit and dinner at Andy Wolf’s Car Collection.

Saturday morning the tour participants will depart for Troy, Michigan with a special stop in Auburn, Indiana at the Auburn-Cord-Duesenberg Museum. The highlight of the trip is a caravan out to Milford, Michigan for a special access visit to General Motors’ top secret Milford Proving Ground to check out the famous high speed oval. Of course, a few laps and group photos will wrap up the visit.

Pratt & Miller welcomes the group for lunch and a tour of the engineering firm’s race facilities including the C6.R cars and the transporters. This is the heart and soul of Corvette Racing and participants will be able to meet some of the people critical to the team’s success. After Pratt & Miller is a trip to Sterling Heights and the opportunity to view a portion of GM’s Heritage Collection. The event draws to a close with a dinner in Troy joined by a number of VIP guests. The Tour bears the hallmark of NCM events… go where the public can’t go, do what the public can’t do and have fun doing it! The price for the entire package is $690 for the primary registrant and $290 for their guest.

“The Chevrolet Pace Car Registry is thrilled to have never-before features included in the Pace Care Reunion Tour,” said Pace Car Registry Public Relations Director Jim Egan. “The Registry members are excited that the Target/Chip Ganassi Racing Team shop and the very restricted GM Milford Proving Grounds are part of this year’s long awaited Tour which is held every other year.”

For more information on the Pace Car Reunion, visit our website at http://www.corvettemuseum.org or call (800) 538-3883. The National Corvette Museum is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the Corvette’s past, present and future. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT, the Museum is located at Exit 28 on I-65 in Bowling Green, KY.

National Corvette Museum Displays Rare Pace Car

2010-07-21T12:36:00.001-07:00

The National Corvette Museum’s Skydome is home to not only rare Corvettes, but also a mini “Gasoline Alley” with a representation of every Corvette that ever paced the Indy 500. 1986 marked the return of the convertible to the Corvette line-up, and the return of the Corvette to Indianapolis. As with the first Corvette Pace Car in 1978, the 1986 Corvette needed no mechanical modifications to pace the race. In fact it was the first street-legal car to pace Indy since the previous Corvette. Test pilot and retired Air Force General Chuck Yeager was selected to drive the Indy Pace Car.

As with all Indy 500 Pace Cars, one is kept by the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, one is presented to the winner of the Indy 500 Race, and one is given to the driver of the Pace Car. Displayed in the National Corvette Museum Skydome is the very car driven by General Chuck Yeager.

Current owner Bart Riebe of Grass Valley, CA acquired this Corvette from General Yeager himself. Yeager’s daughter, Susie, worked for Bart, and at the time Yeager was presented the Corvette at the Indy race, he already had a Corvette. He told Bart if he would buy him two Chevy pickup trucks, they could trade. After some negotiation with GM, Bart was able to get the Pace Car. Due to some modifications the track made to the car, it is not street legal and has only been driven in parades. According to Bart, very few, if any, real Pace Cars are ever released for private individuals to own.

See Chuck Yeager’s Pace Car now through April 2011. The National Corvette Museum is located at I-65 exit 28 in Bowling Green, Kentucky. It is open daily, 8am until 5pm central time. Regular admission prices are $10.00 for adults, $8.00 for seniors, $5.00 for youth age 6-16 and children 5 and under are free. For information call 800-53-VETTE (83883) or visit the Museum online at www.corvettemuseum.org.

National Corvette Museum Offers Buy One, Get One Free Admission with School Supply Donation

2010-07-19T09:23:00.001-07:00

The National Corvette Museum is offering Buy One, Get One Free Admission now through Sunday, July 25 to any visitor who brings a donation of school supplies to the Museum. A Corvette will be “crammed” with the donated supplies, and then caravanned to the Tony Rose / Sam 100.7 “Stuff the Bus” on Monday, July 26. Sam 100.7 distributes the donated items to the many schools in South Central Kentucky.

“Last year visitors to the Museum and Museum employees donated six large boxes of school supplies,” said Katie Frassinelli, Marketing and Communications Manager. “We hope to top that this year, and the Corvette caravan over to the bus is always a fun way to wrap up the Sam 100.7 Stuff the Bus campaign.”

Anyone with a Corvette is welcome to join the caravan to the bus on Monday, July 26. The caravan will depart the Museum around 8:15am.

The National Corvette Museum is open daily, 8am until 5pm. Regular admission prices are $10.00 for adults, $5.00 for youth age 6-16 and children 5 and under are free. For information call 800-53-VETTE (83883) or visit the Museum online at www.corvettemuseum.org.

National Corvette Museum's Anniversary Celebration to Showcase Corvette Racing's Past and Future

2010-07-13T14:16:00.000-07:00

Display Celebrates 50th Anniversary of Le Mans Participation

This year's 24 Hours of Le Mans marked the 50th anniversary of Corvette's first participation in the world's most celebrated sports car race. And this year’s NCM Anniversary Celebration will re-unite Briggs Cunningham’s No. 3 Corvette with the 2011 Special Z06 created as a modern version of the 1960 racer.

"When you look at the Corvettes that raced at Le Mans 50 years ago, it's impossible not to be impressed by the passion, the immense courage, and the physical stamina that was required to race for 24 hours in those vehicles," said Corvette Racing program Doug Fehan. "It was an astounding feat, and the men who drove them have my respect. Regardless of what Corvette Racing may have accomplished in the past or what we may accomplish in the future, we will always work in the shadow of these racers."

Briggs Cunningham's No. 3 Corvette was purchased by the late Chip Miller who went through great lengths to restore the car. His son, Lance, has carried on the passion by shipping the car to this year’s 24 Hours of Le Mans race… a race where it finished first in the large displacement GT category and eighth overall at Le Mans in 1960.

Driver Johnny O'Connell enjoyed the rare opportunity to drive the No. 3 1960 Corvette during a photo shoot at Le Mans. "The race cars and technology have changed greatly over the years, but Chevrolet's approach to racing has been consistent," O'Connell said. "The Corvettes that raced at Le Mans in 1960 were very nearly stock vehicles, and to this day, Corvette Racing is still a tool to improve the breed. The relationship that the race team has with the production engineers definitely benefits Chevrolet customers.”

Lance will travel to Bowling Green, Kentucky September 2-4 with the Cunningham Corvette, and conduct a seminar as part of the National Corvette Museum’s weekend activities. His Corvette will be displayed side-by-side with the 2011 Special Z06.

The 2011 Special Z06 was created by Chevrolet as a one-off production Corvette Z06, the first 2011 Corvette manufactured with VIN 001. GM Design Center created a modern version of the famous white and blue stripe 1960 Le Mans winner, adding many special features. Event attendees will get the chance to photograph both cars together at the Museum.

KY Gov. Ceremonially Signs Bill Naming Corvette Official State Sports Car

2010-06-22T15:00:00.001-07:00

Governor Steve Beshear today visited the Corvette Plant in Bowling Green, Ky. to ceremonially sign House Bill 104, which designates the Corvette as the official state sports car of Kentucky.

"Sports car enthusiasts have been in love with the Corvette since it was first unveiled in the Motorama show in New York in 1953," said Gov. Beshear. "For nearly 30 years, Kentucky has been the exclusive home of this iconic sports car. Today, we proudly honor this fine example of American ingenuity by designating the Corvette as Kentucky's official state sports car."

In 1981, General Motors moved production of the Chevrolet Corvette from St. Louis, Mo. to Bowling Green, Ky., where currently 471 employees build the distinctive high-performance vehicles. Approximately 50,000 people visit each year to watch the manufacturing process at the Bowling Green Assembly Plant, which has a tourism economic impact of more than $205 million. This figure does not include the nearly 150,000 who visit the National Corvette Museum, located directly across the street from the Plant, which attracts Corvette enthusiasts from all over the world.

"This is an exciting day for Bowling Green and the entire state of Kentucky as we celebrate the Corvette as the state's official sports car," said Rep. Jody Richards, of Bowling Green. "This passage of this legislation during the legislative session and the ceremonial bill signing that is being held today highlights the importance of the Corvette Assembly Plant to the Commonwealth and especially to the south central region of our state."

"I am pleased that we were able to move legislation through the lawmaking process during the 2010 session to highlight the importance of the Corvette Plant to Kentucky's economy," said Sen. Mike Reynolds, of Bowling Green. "Bowling Green continues to become more of a tourist destination. Therefore, drawing attention to our community and the Corvette's unique role in our American heritage can only boost economic development in our area. The Corvette has become a tangible symbol of our Commonwealth and I am grateful that Governor Beshear has taken the time to come to Bowling Green to make that symbolism official."

Kentucky ranks third in total light vehicle production, placing it at the hub of "auto alley," the strip of middle America that stretches from Michigan into the deep south. In fact, 9.8 percent of all cars and trucks produced in the United States are manufactured in Kentucky. As of early June 2010, more than 64,600 people work in Kentucky's 418 auto-related industries.

Governor Steve Beshear signs House Bill 104 with witnesses GM Bowling Green Assembly Plant Manager Bob Parcell, Warren County Judge Executive Mike Buchanon, Bowling Green Mayor Elaine Walker, Representative Martha Jane King, Representative Jody Richards, UAW Local 2164 Chairman Shane Colvard, Senator Mike Reynolds and Representative C. B. Embry.

2014 Corvette Caravan - Letter from the Chair

2010-06-17T13:45:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to all of you who have already sent your best wishes and offers of help. All support is greatly appreciated. I most certainly will be soliciting your assistance, advice, and action in the days and months to come.

Although the next caravan is four years away, the time will pass so rapidly we will wonder why all the planning didn’t start in 2009. With that certainty in mind, I have set the following goals for completion by the end of this year. I want to have all the caravan segments identified and the captains for each assigned.

So, how do we get there by Christmas? First, I am soliciting inputs from all those who would like to captain a caravan segment in 2014, both past and future captains. If you felt like your area of the country was not served by an authorized caravan and you think an added segment is warranted, let me know. If you are a past captain and wish to assume the task again, let me know. If you weren’t a captain on the last caravan, but would like to lead a group this time, let me know. In other words, to paraphrase the rum commercial, “calling all caravan captains”. Please let me know your telephone number when responding. Once the captains have been installed, we can begin to massage the routes. Not down to the rest stops, but the overall plan to ensure we have optimized all the routes.

The traffic pattern from the past caravan will be the basis for the one in 2014. Some additions, deletions, and modifications may occur, but in general, not much will differ from that successful event. I do want to review all the past routes so I am familiar with how the segments were connected.

Having been involved in the organizing and funding of two caravans, I know all the hard work is done by the caravan captains and their local teams. My job will be to help make that task as trouble free as possible and keep everyone informed, on a timely basis, of the caravan status. In addition, the NCM will be streamlining the registration process and further reducing the workload of the captains. I solicit all participants to join in and help support your captain. It is a huge task to raise funds, book venues, publish route books, time daily routes, etc. Please volunteer and become part of the caravan process. You won’t be sorry.

This caravan will mark the twentieth anniversary of the opening of the museum and the silver anniversary of its conception. We have the opportunity to make it the largest and best caravan ever. All we need is an abundance of new ideas and a ton of hard work.

You can contact me at vettltd@hotmail.com. I promise to get back to you within a 24 hour period. One exception, I will be out of the country from June 8 until June 27. If I can reach a computer, I’ll get back to you during this time.

Paul Mariano
National Chair
2014 NCM Caravan

Kentucky Teen Loans Stingray Skateboard Artwork to National Corvette Museum

2010-06-15T14:57:00.001-07:00

Artwork is on display in front window of Museum's Library & Archives

The National Corvette Museum received a unique and interesting piece of art for display on Thursday, June 10. Harrison County High School Senior, Tyler Hardin presented the museum with a skateboard bearing artwork of a 2011 Stingray Concept Corvette in multiple perspectives.

Tyler was first given the skateboard by members of the Harrison County High School “Skaters with a Purpose” club (S.W.A.P.). The club gave out 13 boards to multiple artists around the county and some to other states. “I am a diehard Corvette fan, so I figured that this was one way to show it,” Tyler said. “Beneath the center image is the reflection, which is that of a 1965 model and the top right hand corner is a 1969 model, but it’s all about the 2011 model,” he added.

Tyler just graduated from Harrison County and is from Sadieville, Kentucky. He will be entering Spencerian College this summer, majoring in Graphic Design. Tyler currently has no formal training in the area of drawing and design, and learned his technique from his grandfather at an early age. Tyler said everything on the skateboard was hand sketched, and amazingly – it only took four hours of drawing and two hours of finishing to produce this one-of-a-kind skateboard.

Tyler’s Stingray Skateboard will be on display in the front display window of the Library and Archives at the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky for a period of 6-9 months.

The National Corvette Museum is located at I-65 exit 28 in South Central Kentucky. It is open daily from 8am until 5pm Central Time. More information is available online at www.corvettemuseum.org or by calling 800-53 VETTE (53553).

Pictured: Tyler Hardin presents National Corvette Museum Executive Director Wendell Strode with the Stingray Skateboard for display.

Photos of the skateboard can be downloaded at:
http://picasaweb.google.com/corvettemuseum/StingraySkateboard?feat=directlink

Horses to Meet Horsepower This Friday at the National Corvette Museum

2010-05-26T15:15:00.000-07:00

Alltech and the First Lady of Kentucky to hold formal press conference on the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games

The First Lady of Kentucky, Jane Beshear, is partnering with Alltech’s president and founder, Dr. Pearse Lyons, to travel the Commonwealth and states surrounding Kentucky to promote the largest sporting event to come to the United States since the 2002 Winter Olympics – the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.

On Friday, May 28 the National Corvette Museum will host a press conference for the event, allowing area media to interact with the First Lady, an accomplished equestrian herself, and Dr. Lyons in regards to the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games. In just over 100 days the world’s finest athletes will gallop into the Bluegrass to compete in eight world championships over 16 days at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky.

The press conference begins at 8am Central Time in the National Corvette Museum Conference Center and will last approximately one hour, including a short video about the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games. Media and the public will have the opportunity to ask questions.

National Corvette Museum Announces 2014 Caravan National Chair

2010-05-12T13:53:00.000-07:00

They come from miles around… lines of colorful Corvettes, all generations represented, traveling from every continental United State and even a few foreign countries to gather in the Home of the Corvette. 2014 will bring the 5th National Corvette Caravan and will mark the 20th Anniversary of the National Corvette Museum. Leading the spectacle is Paul Mariano of Huntersville, NC, a 20-year Museum member who is not only a lifetime member of the Museum but also a founding member.

Paul is currently the ambassador to the Museum for the Queen City Corvette Club in Charlotte, NC, and previously was the ambassador for the Corvette Club of Santa Barbara, CA. He is a member of the NCRS and was a participant of the Southern California caravan in 1999, co-captain of the Southern California caravan in 2003, and sponsorship/advertising chairman for the 2009 North Carolina / South Carolina / Virginia caravan.

“When Roc Linkov, NCM Events Manager, asked if I would do it, I did have a little trepidation,” said Paul. “But as when I agreed to take the Southern California caravan at the last minute, I thought if not me then who? I have such a deep love affair with the museum that I want to contribute as much as I can, wherever I can. Without the great help that my wife Barbara provides, I could not manage to take on any of these caravan tasks. I just hope I can provide the service that everyone has entrusted to me.”

Paul is an avid supporter of the National Corvette Museum, the Corvette Race Team and the Corvette lifestyle. He currently owns a 1967 big block coupe Corvette and a 2007 Z06.

The 5th National Corvette Caravan will take place the first week of September, 2014. Regional caravans will form and join other caravans as they travel across the United States to gather in Bowling Green, Kentucky for four days of festivities at the National Corvette Museum. “A national caravan such as this requires years of planning and coordinating and the Museum is fortunate to have a volunteer like Paul to take on this monumental task,” stated National Corvette Museum Executive Director, Wendell Strode.

The Museum is located at I-65, exit 28 in South Central Kentucky and is open daily, 8am to 5pm Central Time.

National Corvette Museum Helps Stamp Out Hunger

2010-05-04T08:28:00.001-07:00

The National Corvette Museum is offering two dollars off admission now through Saturday, May 8 to any visitor who brings a donation of nonperishable items to the Museum. The National Corvette Museum is participating in ‘Stamp out Hunger Day’ by collecting canned food items for local food banks.

Visitors will be sure to enjoy hands-on, interactive exhibits, a new Corvette Café, expanded Store, Conference Center, the chance to sit in a Corvette and even register to drive one home. Not only will visitors enjoy an afternoon within the ‘Gateway to all things Corvette’ but they will be helping stamp out hunger in South Central Kentucky.

‘Stamp Out Hunger’ is an annual drive by the National Association of Letter Carriers. Items collected by the National Corvette Museum will be picked up on Saturday, May 8 by the local postal service.

The National Corvette Museum is open daily, 8am until 5pm. Regular admission prices are $10.00 for adults, $5.00 for youth age 6-16 and children 5 and under are free. For information call 800-53-VETTE (83883) or visit the Museum online at www.corvettemuseum.org.

For more information on the National Association of Letter Carriers Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive, visit: www.helpstampouthunger.com.

Act Designating Corvette as the Official State Sports Car of Kentucky Signed by Governor

2010-04-27T12:47:00.000-07:00

Kentucky can now add one more item to its list of state “symbols”… the Corvette. April 26, 2010 Governor Steve Beshear signed House Bill 104 - an act designating the Corvette as the official state sports car of Kentucky.

“Since 1953, the Corvette has been considered America’s sports car. As home to the Corvette plant in Bowling Green, Kentuckians have long considered the Corvette to be Kentucky’s sports car and a great symbol of Kentucky pride and craftsmanship. House Bill 104, which was passed during the 2010 General Assembly, now makes that designation official. It was with great pleasure that I signed HB 104 into law,” said Governor Beshear.

A companion bill (Senate Bill 111) was first introduced by State Senator Mike Reynolds, D-Bowling Green in January. “Bowling Green is becoming more of a tourist destination. The National Corvette Museum is a major part of that and is a definite drawing card for the traveling public. Drawing attention to our community and the Corvette’s unique role in our American heritage can only boost economic development for our area,” said Reynolds.

Representative Jody Richards, D-Bowling Green, is the primary sponsor of HB 104. “I am pleased that we were able to move this legislation during the late hours of the session,” Senator Reynolds said. “I want to commend my colleague, Rep. Jody Richards, for his hard work on pushing this bill in the House.”

Bowling Green, Kentucky is home to both the General Motors Corvette Assembly Plant (the only place in the world Corvettes have been manufactured since 1981) and the National Corvette Museum, a non-profit foundation with a mission of celebrating the invention of the Corvette and preserving its past, present and future since 1994.
"With the Chevrolet Corvette being one of the most recognizable symbols of Kentucky, it only makes sense for the car to be designated as the state's official sports car.

Many people who think of Kentucky, think of Corvette. Our workforce is proud to have been building the Corvette in Bowling Green for almost 29 years," said GM Bowling Green Assembly Plant Manager Bob Parcell.

The act reads as follows:
AN ACT designating the Corvette as the official state sports car of Kentucky.
Be it enacted by the General Assembly of the Commonwealth of Kentucky:
SECTION 1. A NEW SECTION OF KRS CHAPTER 2 IS CREATED TO READ AS FOLLOWS:
The Corvette is named and designated the official state sports car of Kentucky.

A ceremonial signing of the act is planned to take place this summer in Bowling Green.

Race Fans Can Register to Win a Corvette Through June 30

2010-04-21T12:54:00.000-07:00

Grand Prize: 2011 Chevrolet Corvette, Trip to Le Mans

To help celebrate the 50th anniversary of Corvette’s first appearance at the historic 24 Hours of Le Mans, race fans can enter for a chance to win a 2011 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport by entering the “Race To Win Corvette” promotion at www.racetowincorvette.com now through June 30, 2010.

One Grand Prize Winner will receive a 2011 Corvette Grand Sport, and a trip to Le Mans, France, for the 2011 24 Hours of Le Mans. Corvette made its Le Mans debut in 1960, finishing first in the large displacement GT class and eighth overall.

“This is an exciting opportunity for race fans to win one of the most iconic sports cars ever produced, and watch Corvette compete in the oldest and most famous endurance race in the world,” said Terry Dolan, Manager Chevy Racing. “Team Chevy is proud to team up with our Corvette Racing partners – American Le Mans Series, AutoWeek, Compuware, Michelin, Mobil 1 and PRS Guitars – to help celebrate the 50th anniversary of Corvette’s first appearance at Le Mans.”

No purchase necessary. See official rules for details at www.racetowincorvette.com.

Chevrolet is one of America’s best-known and best-selling automotive brands, and one of the fastest growing brands in the world. With fuel solutions that range from “gas-friendly to gas-free,” Chevrolet has nine models that offer an EPA-estimated 30 miles per gallon or more on the highway, and offers two hybrid models. More than 2.5 million Chevrolets that run on E85 biofuel have been sold. Chevrolet delivers expressive design, spirited performance and strives to provide the best value in every segment in which it competes. More information can be found at www.chevrolet.com. For more information on the Volt, visit http://archives.media.gm.com/volt.

Tom Wallace Joins the Corvette Museum Motorsports Park Team

2010-04-20T11:35:00.000-07:00

The dream of an educational and recreational track at the National Corvette Museum shifts into high gear

Tom Wallace knows Corvettes. As a former Vehicle Line Executive for General Motors and Corvette Chief Engineer, he was at the wheel when the ZR1 Corvette was born, giving the world a 638 horsepower, 200+ mph, American-made super-car. Today, he's working on a new chapter of motorsports history and teaming up with the National Corvette Museum to promote and develop a 400-acre Motorsports Park.

The proposed Motorsports Park (not just for Corvettes) is being designed with the help of Pratt/Miller Engineering who is the company behind the ALMS Championship winning Corvette Racing team. Once their conceptual design is fine-tuned by a professional track designer, this track will be the only one in the world where professional and amateur drivers of all makes of cars and motorcycles can experience many of the signature features of the LeMans road course. Along with the track, (which can be reconfigured into four different courses) there will be an autocross/skid pad area, a drag strip and a karting track, allowing for everything from teen driver safety training to a wide variety of motorsports applications and events.

“What makes Tom an ideal member of the team,” says Wendell Strode, Executive Director of the Museum, “is that he is also a race car driver. Because of that, he knows what makes a track challenging for drivers and he understands what features would make it useful as a testing facility for race teams and manufacturers. In addition to that, Tom is a driving instructor so he understands the track’s importance as an educational facility for people of all skill levels. We are thrilled to have him on board with us.”

Tom's experience in racing goes back to his college days and includes drag racing, autocross, IMSA, Sebring 12 hour, Daytona 24 hour, SCCA Road Racing in GT1 (including several trips to the SCCA National Championship Runoffs) and Waterford Hills Road Racing. Today he is still very active in motorsports, along with his two sons.

Tom is enthusiastic about the project and looking forward to being involved. His first focus will be on fundraising, corporate sponsorships and planning for track operation.
“Since before my retirement in 2009, I have thought that a Motorsports Park at the Museum would raise the whole Corvette community to another level,” Tom said. “Initially, I’ll be working with Tom Blair in pursuing sponsors for the project. Tom (Blair) is an outstanding businessman and researcher and a good strategist of visionary business models.”

“What I’ll bring is my perspective as a racer. I know what makes a track great. I understand wheel to wheel, autocrossing, drag racing and karting. My background has given me insight into how different market segments will want to use this complex for competitive events, practice and educational purposes. I know a lot about driving and what drives people to want to get on a track. This will be the ideal facility for all kinds of applications, and a great place to showcase America’s sports car.”

For more information on the National Corvette Museum’s Motorsports Park project, visit http://www.motorsportspark.org.

Rare and Prototype 4th Generation Corvettes to Be Displayed at Upcoming Event

2010-04-14T14:07:00.000-07:00

Rare cars, good times and fast fun are expected at the National Corvette Museum's C4/ZR-1 Gathering

May 13-15 will bring a rare opportunity to see some of the best fourth generation Corvettes around. The National Corvette Museum will host the annual C4/ZR-1 Gathering and on site will be several ground-breaking and record-shattering Corvettes that were responsible for taking the marque back to supercar status. Among them are four prototypes that escaped GM’s destruction orders for test vehicles, including a 1988 (known as Queenie), the 1989 DRM ZR-1, and the 1989 ZR-1 prototype that was recently sold at Barrett-Jackson. Two 1990 Lingenfelters in the 600 hp range will be present, as well as one of only two Aerobody Lingenfelters in existence. Also making an appearance will be the car that broke the 24-hour World Speed Record in 1990 and the members of the team responsible for this historic achievement, including Tommy Morrison, John Heinricy and Jim Minneker.

This collection of C4 Corvettes will be one of the most impressive exhibited in one place. Included in the 24 car special-exhibit will be the Corvette that introduced the ZR-1 to the world as well as the last ZR-1 to roll off of the assembly line and many significant models in between.

Along with the Fourth-Generation ZR-1 Corvettes, a very rare 1970 ZR-1 will be on display, too. One of only 25 made, this track-inspired C3 is another example of Corvette’s early connection to racing.

Seminars and clinics during the three-day event will cover drag racing fundamentals, detailing, diagnosing and maintenance tips along with informative presentations from C4 Corvette Chief Engineer Dave McLellan and some of the others responsible for creating this car.

While the event focuses on the C4 Corvette, the 2011 Z06 Carbon Corvette will also be on site for fans to look over during a “walk around” with GM staff.

Former Corvette Test Engineer and 2010 Corvette Hall of Fame Inductee Jim Ingles will lead participants on a road tour to nearby Hopkinsville, Kentucky for a tour of a Dana Corporation Plant. The facility manufactures Corvette frame rails and the Z06 frame. Included with the tour are guides explaining the various production steps and lunch will be served at the plant. Additional event activities include drag racing, a car show, auction, autocross, scavenger hunt and road trips that will take drivers over the same routes the GM uses to test the handling of Corvettes. For a more detailed agenda and registration information, visit http://www.corvettemuseum.com/registration/gathering/info.shtml.

Governor Beshear Attends Opening of Educational Driving Simulator Theatre

2010-04-06T09:58:00.000-07:00

National Corvette Museum visitors to experience realistic driving scenarios virtually

Gov. Steve Beshear today joined local and National Corvette Museum officials to open the educational driving simulator theater—a learning tool designed to instruct visitors on realistic driving situations.

“We cannot stress the importance of responsible driving enough,” Gov. Beshear said. “These simulators can teach drivers how to correct mistakes virtually, within a safe environment without the potential consequences of actual crashes. I applaud the Corvette Museum for taking the lead on this safety priority.”

The one-of-a-kind theatre features numerous widescreen televisions and two driving simulators within stationary automobiles, to give the driver lifelike effects of the road. The simulators also feature the highest quality graphics and surround sound.

“The simulators will not only enhance a visitor’s experience at the National Corvette Museum, but also result in having better educated drivers on Kentucky’s roads, making them safer for everyone,” said Wendell Strode, executive director of the National Corvette Museum.

Realistic driving scenarios play out on simulated highways in urban and rural settings and in different weather conditions. As drivers maneuver the simulator, they will feel tension on the steering wheel; feel the car react to the road surface; and hear highway and vehicle sounds. The experience will include a variety of common driving tasks, taking drivers through situations involving some of the most prevalent factors in highway crashes. Visitors 16 or older to the museum in Bowling Green can participate in this educational experience.

“The National Corvette Museum continues to be a great tourist attraction for the Bowling Green area,” Tourism, Arts and Heritage Secretary Sparrow said. “The addition of the driving simulator theater makes this museum an even better attraction.”

“The National Corvette Museum has been a mainstay of our community for years, and we’re proud to support its growth and its announcement today. We congratulate and thank the Museum for bringing two simulators, which will promote safe driving, to South Central Kentucky,” said Warren County Judge Executive Michael Buchanon.

The Corvette museum received a $198,000 Transportation Enhancement award in 2007 to fund the project.

"This celebration today represents the forward-thinking nature of our community, the "Home of the Corvette." We're proud to be the home to two driving simulators at the National Corvette Museum, and we congratulate the Museum on their additions to their facility," said Bowling Green Mayor Elaine Walker.

“The simulator theater is an excellent educational addition to the National Corvette Museum as it offers a hands-on driver safety program to families and groups in a fun environment. With this being the only one of its kind in the area, it has the opportunity to make a difference in the safety of our highways as visitors and locals experience the consequences of their behavior under various driving conditions,” said Vicki Fitch, executive director of the Bowling Green Area Convention & Visitors Bureau.

About the National Corvette Museum: The National Corvette Museum was established in 1994 as a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit foundation with a mission of celebrating the invention of the Corvette and preserving its past, present and future. The 115,000 sq. ft. facility is a popular tourist destination in Bowling Green, Kentucky with an ever-changing collection of historic Corvettes, interactive displays, rotating exhibits, a café, conference center and store. While located near the GM Assembly Plant, the National Corvette Museum is not supported by, or affiliated with the General Motors Corporation. For more information on the National Corvette Museum, please visit http://www.corvettemuseum.org.

About the Grant: Transportation Enhancements are transportation-related activities designed to strengthen the cultural, aesthetic, historic and environmental aspects of Kentucky’s transportation infrastructure. Federal funding is available to government agencies to provide support for transportation and community improvement projects. TE funding is administered by the Transportation Cabinet. Information about TE is available at http://www.tea21.ky.gov.

Lance Miller of Corvettes at Carlisle to Give Seminar at the National Corvette Museum's C5/C6 Bash

2010-04-06T09:08:00.000-07:00

Seminar celebrates the 50th Anniversary of the first Corvette Le Mans win

Attendees to the National Corvette Museum’s C5/C6 Bash will get a special treat on May 1 as Lance Miller of Corvettes at Carlisle shares the story of the discovery and restoration of the first Corvette to win at the 24 Hours of Le Mans race, 50 years ago.

The 1960 Briggs Cunningham Corvette was driven to that first victory by the legendary duo of John Fitch and Bob Grossman, but despite its historical win, the Corvette was later converted into a street car and driven off into obscurity sometime in the 1960s. The car resurfaced just a few years ago, and when Chip Miller, founder of Corvettes at Carlisle, heard about it he acquired the car and began the process of restoring it. His dream was to bring it back to Le Mans, France in 2010 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of its historic win there.

Sadly, Chip passed away before his dream could be realized, but his son Lance took on the project where his dad left off. “The plan is to have the 1960 Cunningham Corvette and one of the drivers, Mr. John Fitch, attend the 2010 Le Mans race in June,” said Lance. “My father wanted to make sure the car would be at the race for its 50th Reunion. Needless to say I'm going to make sure it happens with the help of a lot of great friends!”

General Motors is also honoring that win with the new Corvette Z06 Carbon Limited Edition which will be at the National Corvette Museum’s C5/C6 Bash. A tribute to the anniversary of this great race, each car comes with race number graphics that reference the famous victory.

For Lance though, taking part in the 50th anniversary of the win is just one more thing he can do to honor his father and to bring attention to the Chip Miller Charitable Foundation. The foundation was formed to help spread awareness of amyloidosis and raise money for education and research.

There will be several other exciting and informative seminars at this year’s Bash event, including one featuring members of the Corvette Racing team. Program Manager Doug Fehan and championship driver Johnny O’Connell will be on hand to talk about the triumphs and challenges of GT racing during a special lunch for a limited number of participants.

For registered event attendees, GM will also be conducting “Ride and Drives” from Thursday through Saturday, (4/49-5/1) giving visitors a chance to get behind the wheel of a new Corvette, Camaro, Traverse, Equinox, Malibu and other vehicles from their product line. This will be a fun chance to get to know more about these cars from the people who make them.

In addition, scenic road tours are offered to see some of Kentucky and Tennessee’s other wonderful attractions, as well as digital scavenger hunts, autograph sessions, a Celebrity Car Show, silent auction, autocross, drag racing, dyno pulls, vendors and clinics that cover just about every aspect of the Corvette experience.

Attendees can find up-to-date event agendas and register online at: http://www.corvettemuseum.com/registration/c5_bash/info.shtml.

Wil Cooksey to Receive Prestigious Lee Iacocca Award

2010-03-25T12:53:00.000-07:00

Wil Cooksey, former manager of the world's only Corvette Assembly Plant in Bowling Green, KY and a member of the Board of Directors of the National Corvette Museum will receive the prestigious Lee Iacocca Award August 21, 2010 at the "Cool Cars, Cool Mountains" Car Show in Gunnison, Colorado. Only 20 car clubs in the United States are designated annually by Mr. Iacocca to select recipients for the award that bears his name. 2010 marks the third year he has chosen the Gunnison Car Club, host of the nation's first carbon neutral car show.

The Iacocca Award was created in 2006 by automobile industry legend and best selling author Lee Iacocca to honor, in his words, "some of the world's most committed classic-car collectors and their passion for maintaining an American tradition."

Mike Callihan, president of the Gunnison Car Club, says the choice of Wil Cooksey for the Iacocca Award was a natural one. "Wil is simply an incredible individual. Whether in the car business, on the boards of non-profit community organizations or on the race track he never gives less than his all out best. It doesn't hurt that he's a car nut from head to toe, either."

A Distinguised Graduate of the Officer's Training School, Cooksey served as an executive officer in the U.S. Army Artillery, 1st Lieutenant. His last assignment was a year in Vietnam where he was awarded the Bronze Star.

Cookey's General Motors career is the epitome of achievement beginning with his first job as an assistant professor in industrial engineering at GMI in Flint, MI. In 1976 he transferred to the St. Louis plant where he held several positions before being transferred to the Doraville plant in Atlanta. After working at various superintendent positions at Doraville, he was named the production manager at the Fairfax plant.

Cooksey takes an active role in the community. He currently serves on the boards of the United Way of Bowling Green, First American Bank, Greenview Hospital, the Kentucky Museum, Western Kentucky University School of Business Advisory Board, Drug Abuse Resistance Education Advisory Council and Advancing Minorities' Interest in Engineering Executive Advisory Board.

In 1997 Cooksey received the "Black Engineer of the Year President's Award." Also in 1997, Austin Peay University named him "Achiever of the Year" in their Focus Program. This year Cooksey received a Presidential Citation from the National Association for Equal Opportunity in HIgher Education in recognition of exemplary experience that honors Tennessee State University. Dollars & Sense Magazine honored COoksey in their 1998 "Salute to America's Best & Brightest Business and Professional Men and Women." Cooksey is featured on the cover of African Americans on Wheels magazine as they named the Corvette the "Best Urban Car of the Year." He has been honored as Outstanding Graduate of Tennessee State and named a "Black Achiever in the Industry" by the Southern Christian Leadership Conference.

Wil Cooksey will receive his Lee Iacocca Award at the Gunnison, Colorado Car Club's 23rd Annual "Cool Cars, Cool Mountains Open Car Show" which runs August 20-22.

National Corvette Museum Offering New Grand Sport Raffles

2010-03-25T07:36:00.000-07:00

Most Popular Corvette Model Offered as Part of Raffle Program

Summer will be a little bit sweeter for some lucky Corvette raffle participants as the National Corvette Museum is now offering more Grand Sports to their line-up of available raffle cars. "NCM Board Member and Corvette Assembly Plant Manager Bob Parcell shared with us that Grand Sports have become the most popular model of Corvette, and overall Corvette sales are up this year," said Museum Executive Director Wendell Strode. "We thought we'd follow the trend and offer more of what customers are wanting."

The first of several Grand Sport raffles is a 2010 Black Coupe. The coupe features a manual transmission, which includes the dry sump oil system. Something many people who love to experience the high performance of Corvette enjoy having. The coupe also includes ebony leather interior, dual-mode performance exhaust, Grand Sport chrome aluminum wheels and is equipped with the 3LT package which includes options like the Bose Premium 7-speaker system, 1-year Satellite XM radio, head-up display, power telescoping steering wheel, heated seats, memory package, adjustable sport bucket seats and 6-way passenger power seat adjustment. Tickets for this raffle are $400 each, and the raffle is limited to 500 tickets. The drawing will be held on Thursday, May 20 at 2pm Central Time regardless of the number of tickets remaining.

Just two weeks later the Museum will offer yet another Grand Sport - this time Arctic White with red hash marks, black convertible top and two-tone red and black leather interior. The car is equipped with the Grand Sport Heritage Package which features Grand Sport logo in the seat headrest, iPod connectivity and racing-style pedals. The car features an automatic transmission and tickets are $100 with 1,994 tickets available. "Our $100 raffles offer a lower price point, but you are still getting really good odds," said Strode. The drawing will be held on Thursday, June 3 at 2pm Central Time.

National Corvette Museum raffle winners also receive the exciting R8C Museum Delivery Program option benefits when picking up their new Corvette. The program is a memorable experience for new Corvette owners and offers a VIP tour of the Museum and Corvette Assembly Plant, one-year individual membership to the Museum, hands-on training by a delivery team member, program decal and plaque.

The National Corvette Museum is the "gateway to all things Corvette" and a member-driven, non-profit foundation. Dedicated to the mission of celebration, education and preservation, the Museum is open seven days a week from 8am to 5pm CT and is located at Exit 28 on I-65 in Bowling Green, KY.

National Corvette Museum Welcomes Two New Driving Simulators

2010-03-01T12:00:00.000-08:00

Simulators are the first of their kind in the United States

Created by some of the same engineers that developed the flight simulators for the aeronautics industry, Virage Simulation Inc. has taken the danger out of learning to drive with two new, state-of-the-art driving simulators located in the National Corvette Museum. The simulators are designed to present a limitless number of scenarios that drivers can face… challenging situations on city streets and freeways and in all kinds of weather conditions. The National Corvette Museum purchased and installed the simulators as a permanent addition to the Museum, furthering the Museum’s mission of educating the public and making a positive impact in the community.

Based in Montreal, Canada, Virage creates simulators that are so realistic that student drivers in Canada can earn drivers education hours by training with them. When the seatbelt is secured and the key is turned, the dashboard lights up and drivers can feel and hear the virtual engine running. The driving experience is so authentic that drivers will feel the vibration of the pavement under their virtual tires, and the weight of the car shift as the wheel is turned.

“A realistic cockpit was essential,” says Danny Grenier, Chief Software Architect for the system. “We wanted to duplicate the driving experience as closely as possible for students so that they could really get a feel for what it is like to be on the road.”The simulators are so real, in fact, that warnings of motion sickness are posted, and all drivers must have at least a learner’s permit to operate the equipment. Five educational programs are offered on the simulators, including Emergency Driving Situations; Driving Under the Influence; Speed, Road Conditions and Stopping Distances; Hazard Perception and Fuel Efficient Driving.

“We can do things with this system that you just cannot duplicate in real life. We can simulate a car coming into your lane, or a blow out, or brake failure and teach students how to react properly in a way that minimizes the risk of injury,” said Dr. Pierro Hirsch, Road Safety Research and Driver Training Program Development Manager for Virage. “We can replay these events if we need to and practice them, allowing students to face the situations without the consequences. We can rehearse them until the proper response comes naturally.”

Not only are the simulators a powerful training tool for student drivers, but it also has classroom applications as well. With a few clicks, the panoramic view of the road switches into a PowerPoint presentation on the effects of driving while intoxicated.

Drivers can wear a special set of goggles that skews their vision similarly to the way that alcohol does. “People are amazed when they do this exercise and get to see for themselves what the effects of alcohol are on the system. What really makes the point is when we set the simulator to duplicate the impaired driving experience.” The simulator adjusts itself to mimic impaired reaction time of an intoxicated driver, over-compensating, and over braking, delaying and speeding up the actions of the driver.

Another useful function of the simulator is the “Eco-Driver” training feature. With this program, drivers are challenged to change their driving styles in such a way that promotes good fuel economy by learning how to accelerate properly and time their stops more precisely. “What is interesting,” Dr. Hirsch notes, “is that often students will get to their destinations just as quickly as another will while saving fuel at the same time.”

The simulators will serve as an important tool to help educate drivers of all ages on safe driving and ultimately make our roads safer by helping to prevent accidents, reduce injuries and ultimately save lives. Statistics indicate that nearly 5,000 young people die in car crashes every year and another 300,000 teens are injured in car crashes annually. New methods of teaching driver safety is imperative to ensure teens are given the best chance to survive their early, and most risky, driving experiences.

“We are extremely fortunate to have the only simulators of this kind in the U.S.,” said Chris Sweeney, Tours and Admissions Supervisor for the Museum. “They will give us the opportunity to educate drivers of all ages and experience levels – providing useful knowledge and a safe learning environment for students to develop their driving skills.” The simulators are open to Museum visitors from 8am until 4:30pm daily at no additional charge. Visitors can reserve a 15-minute slot at admissions. Simulators are also available for private rental for a fee during or after hours and anyone interested can contact the Admissions team to schedule a time.

The National Corvette Museum is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for kids age 6-16, $8 for seniors and $25 for a family. The Museum is located at Exit 28 off I-65 in Bowling Green, KY. For more information on the National Corvette Museum, visit our website at: http://www.corvettemuseum.org/ or call (800) 53-VETTE (83883).For more information about the Driving Simulators visit: http://www.viragesimulation.com/.

For images of the driving simulators, please visit: http://picasaweb.google.com/corvettemuseum/DrivingSimulators#High res versions can be obtained by contacting Katie Frassinelli.

Get Up Close and Personal with Corvette Racing April 29, 2010

2010-02-23T13:27:00.000-08:00

Everyone knew that ALMS racing was going to get a lot more interesting when Corvette Racing entered the GT2 picture but few expected it to come to blows the way it did in the last race of the year at Laguna Seca on October 10, 2009. A collision between the No. 45 Porsche and the No. 3 Corvette C6.R sent the Corvette and driver Jan Magnussen head on into a concrete barrier at nearly 200 mph. In the end, Corvette Racing earned their fifth podium finish in five races since moving to the GT2 category.

This April, race fans will get the unique opportunity to lunch with Corvette Racing Program Manager Doug Fehan and C6.R No. 3 driver Johnny O’Connell, hearing “behind the scenes” stories and getting a preview of what to expect this season.

Fehan recently shared details with the National Corvette Museum about how Corvette Racing works with the Corvette Design team to develop a better race car, and how that technology is transferred into Corvettes built for consumers.

“Our guys do the driving at the test tracks and have input into the cars, looking at shock balance on the car, over-all handling and performance. GM takes what we learn in racing and they put it into play for you,” said Fehan.

As part of the National Corvette Museum’s C5/C6 Bash April 29 through May 1, 2010, Fehan and O’Connell will share information about why they made the move to the GT2 race program, and provide insight to the all new car for 2010.

“For GT2, we obviously wanted to come out strong and prove that we could be competitive, but only looked at the five-race schedule [in 2009] as a testing program for the car and the team,” said Fehan. 2010 will be the first time the team has competed in GT2 at Le Mans. “If you come out you won’t be disappointed as we wave the Corvette flag, taking on BMW, Porsche and Ferrari. We won’t let you down,” he added.

The luncheon and private autograph session is on Thursday, April 29 from 11am to 1pm. The fee is $18 for National Corvette Museum members and $25 for non-members. More information and an online registration form are available at http://www.corvettemuseum.com/registration/c5_bash/info.shtml. An autograph session is also scheduled to be held in the Corvette Store immediately following the luncheon and is open to all event participants.

High res Corvette Racing images can be obtained from Richard Prince Photography at http://www.rprincephoto.com/. The Museum also has a small selection of images available for media use.

Senator Reynolds files bill naming the Corvette as the official state sports car

2010-02-03T06:07:00.000-08:00

State Senator Mike Reynolds, D-Bowling Green, has filed legislation (Senate Bill 111) designating the Corvette as the official state sports car of Kentucky.
The Corvette’s role in Kentucky’s manufacturing and tourism industries make it a natural choice for “official sports car of Kentucky.” Warren County is the home of the General Motors Bowling Green Assembly Plant and the National Corvette Museum.

“Bowling Green is becoming more of a tourist destination. The National Corvette Museum is a major part of that and is a definite drawing card for the traveling public. Drawing attention to our community and the Corvette’s unique role in our American heritage can only boost economic development for our area,” Senator Reynolds said.

The first 300 Corvettes were built by hand in 1953 in Flint, Michigan, just after General Motors unveiled the Corvette as a “dream car” in the Motorama show in New York’s Waldorf Astoria Hotel. The next year, the production was moved to St. Louis and in June of 1981, the Corvette production was transferred to Bowling Green. Today, the Bowling Green plant employs more than 500 Kentuckians and is known throughout the world for its famous high-quality product.
On July 2, 1992, the one millionth Corvette was manufactured. The 50th anniversary was marked in June of 2003 with a special 50th anniversary Corvette package. The Corvette plant received a number of awards in 2009 including the J.D. Power’s Top GM Model, Best in Segment and the Bronze Plant Award.

Each year, approximately 50,000 tourists from around the world visit the Corvette plant to watch the manufacturing process. The plant has partnered with the National Corvette Museum to enable Corvette enthusiasts the opportunity to watch their own dream car being built and to take a personalized tour of the facility. The museum has around 150,000 visitors a year.

Senate Bill 111 has been referred to the Senate Committee on Economic Development, Tourism, and Labor. “The Corvette has become a tangible symbol of our Commonwealth, and I’m excited to make that symbolism official,” Senator Reynolds said.Senator Reynolds represents the 32nd district, which includes Butler and Warren counties.

Celebrate National Boy Scout Day February 8!

2010-02-01T12:55:00.000-08:00

On Monday, February 8 the National Corvette Museum is celebrating National Boy Scout Day! The Museum is extending our hours, and running a special to welcome Boy Scouts. From 4 - 6pm we are offering a museum tour, hot dog and soft drink for just $6 per person!

Boy Scout Groups can RSVP at 270-781-7973 ext. 185. Individual visitors can simply show their Boy Scout identification to receive the offer.

Can't make it on February 8? Boy Scout groups can book this special the entire month of February! To reserve your spot, contact our Admission Coordinator, Chris Sweeney, at chris@corvettemuseum.org, or call 270-781-7973 ext. 185 or toll-free at 800-538-3883.

Scouts won't want to miss our new, temporary exhibit, 'The World We Create.' The exhibit includes 10 hands-on displays within three unique 'zones' including the Transit Hub, Tech Works and Construction Zone. The exhibit is from the Louisville Science Center and is available through April 18.

The National Corvette Museum is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT. The Museum is located at Exit 28 off I-65 in Bowling Green, KY. For more information on the National Corvette Museum, visit our website at: http://www.corvettemuseum.org/ or call (800) 53-VETTE (83883).

Explore 'The World We Create' Traveling Exhibit at the National Corvette Museum January 9 - April 18, 2010!

2010-01-13T09:52:00.000-08:00

The National Corvette Museum has hosted dinosaurs, dresses, Corvairs and even creatures of the deep... but now the Museum is hosting a hands-on exhibit that will entertain both kids and kids at heart. THE WORLD WE CREATE Traveling Exhibit blends concepts of science and technology and translates them into hands-on, heads-up activities for all ages. The exhibit, on loan from the Louisville Science Center, offers captivating designs, informative graphics and exciting activity stations to create a one-of-a-kind experience for our visitors.

“We enjoy bringing in exhibits that appeal to a younger generation, and have an educational aspect that attracts school groups. We have found this is a great way to expose young people to the Corvette brand and start growing enthusiasts from a very young age,” said Stephanie Morrill, Membership and Admissions Manager.

The 2,500 square foot exhibit celebrates human ingenuity through hands-on exploration of our material world. Imagination guides children through three themes from the manufactured world: Construction Zone, Transit Hub and Tech Works. At each stop, they’ll experience how human creativity solves problems and advances technology. Activities promote concepts like teamwork, problem solving, and communication. The temporary exhibit is on display January 9 through April 18 and is included with museum admission.

Download high resolution images on our Flickr site!
View a short video clip about our exhibit on our You Tube channel!

Family Fun Day January 16, 2010
A kick-off day of free activities will be held this Saturday, January 16, 2010 at the Museum. Activities are scheduled from 10am until 3pm and includes a fossil dig, bounce house, book fair, story time, Hot Rod's baseball team's mascot Axle the Bear, a model railroad, booths from other area attractions, arts and crafts, kid-friendly cooking demonstrations, Master Tom Pardue’s East West Kung Fu will perform and much more! Museum admission is separate from the free activities.

The National Corvette Museum is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for kids age 6-16, $8 for seniors and $25 for a family. The Museum is located at Exit 28 off I-65 in Bowling Green, KY. For more information on the National Corvette Museum, visit our website at: http://www.corvettemuseum.org/ or call (800) 53-VETTE (83883).

National Corvette Museum Announces 2010 Corvette Hall of Fame

2009-12-14T14:17:00.000-08:00

The National Corvette Museum has announced the following inductees to be recognized as part of the 13th Annual Corvette Hall of Fame Ceremony in 2010. Grady Davis, a pioneer for corporate sponsored private racing, Fred Gallasch, steward of the Corvette legacy, and James Ingle, 40-year GM development engineer will be recognized with the highest honor bestowed by the Museum for their contributions to the past, present and future of Corvette.

The 2010 Hall of Fame recipients will be inducted into the Corvette Hall of Fame during a ceremony and banquet on Friday, September 3, 2010. Their induction will take place as part of the Museum’s 16th Anniversary Corvette Celebration festivities September 2-4, 2010.

Corvette Hall of Fame Inductee Grady Davis graduated from both the University of Texas and Harvard University, gaining employment with Gulf Research and Development Company where he spent the first 20 years in Venezuela. During his 44 year career with the company, Davis created the country’s first corporate sponsored private race team, around Don Yenko and Dr. Dick Thompson, as a dynamic test lab for Gulf Oil Company’s lubricants and fuels. With Corvette being his first love, Davis began a racing program around it that started in earnest in 1961, and continued until 1966. The Davis program successfully competed regionally, nationally and even internationally, earning the Corvette marque legions of fans that exist to this day.

With the extraordinary results of Davis’ initial venture into the racing business, the program earned four national championships, two runners-up, three regional championships and the awarding of more than 214 trophies. “His efforts established the Corvette as a genuine competition sports car, and set the bar that others would shoot for,” said Carroll Shelby, veteran automotive designer and racing driver. Donna Mae Mims, champion race car driver, credits Davis with her being the first woman driver to win a national race championship. She added “Grady lived and breathed Corvette. Grady sold the Corvette to the world.” Davis passed away September 29, 1995 at the age of 87 in Boca Raton, FL.

Corvette Hall of Fame Inductee Fred Gallasch has a long history of accomplishments which have and continue to enhance the prestige of Corvette, beginning shortly after he earned his Doctorate of Philosophy and Masters in Economics from North Carolina State University. Gallasch spent his first 12 years with General Motors in the Societal Analysis Department of the research laboratories refining his marketing acumen and acute sensitivity to the ever changing needs and wants of GM’s customers. During that time, he also published over 35 research documents, several of which appeared in professional journals.

Gallasch’s direct association with Corvette began in the late ‘80’s when he became Assistant Brand Manager for Corvette. His work helped GM to strengthen its customer focus and reinvent its product line up. According to Dave McLellan, “he constantly helped make Corvette programs happen when investment capital was scarce and the Corvette needed inside support… From an engineering perspective, I credit Fred with holding engineering’s ‘feet to the fire’ until we found the right fuel tank solution for the C5.” Gallasch has written articles for Corvette Enthusiast and Corvette Fever, and often speaks at Corvette gatherings. “If you own a Corvette, names like Duntov, McLellan and Hill are always heard or mentioned in discussion,” wrote Robert Truilzi, General Director, General Motors Asia Pacific. “At the same time, quietly and unobtrusively, the name Gallasch is also spoken frequently in those gatherings, and usually Fred is not too far behind… doing what he does best, listening to the Corvette owner and sharing his passion!”

Corvette Hall of Fame Inductee James Ingle had been the source of Corvette development engineering from the mid 70s until the launch of the C5 when he moved on to Quality Rides Group Manager conducting ride trips for all General Motors North America products. Ingle’s efforts were the result of a very disciplined engineering approach to problem solving and an ability to understand the Corvette customers and translate those into a development solution. Ingle became the quintessential Corvette test driver, logging numerous hours behind the wheel, testing new and future Corvette designs on the GM Proving Grounds. He was responsible for the published performance numbers for Corvettes from the 70s to the 1997 model including the famous ZR-1.

Long drives were his enjoyment and he became so proficient at checking out every feature of a new product that GM decided to have him develop a consistent and uniform quality drive audit process for new vehicle launches. “Jim was an excellent development driver, able to wring out a car by the seat of his pants,” said Dave McLellan. “Jim made major contributions to the C4 Corvette out through the ZR-1 in both test and development. The ZR-1 Power Key was his idea.” Ingle retired in 2006 after 43 years of work at GM.

The National Corvette Museum established the Corvette Hall of Fame in 1998. The purpose is to confer the highest honor and recognition upon the most influential individuals in the history of the Corvette. The award recognizes those who have made significant contributions to their respective fields, each having reached the highest level of accomplishment. Inductees must also reflect the highest standards of integrity and character to positively enhance the prestige of the Corvette and the National Corvette Museum.

Additional information on reserving a spot at the prestigious Corvette Hall of Fame banquet will be available in the coming months via our website at: http://www.corvettemuseum.org/ or can be obtained by subscribing to our weekly eNewsletter “NCM eNews” at: http://www.corvettemuseum.org/ncmenews/. The National Corvette Museum is a member-driven, non-profit foundation dedicated to educating the public through the preservation of the Corvette’s past, present and future heritage. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT, the Museum is located at Exit 28 off I-65 in Bowling Green, KY.

DECEMBER IS DOLLAR DAYS FOR KENTUCKY RESIDENTS VISITING THE NATIONAL CORVETTE MUSEUM!

2009-11-30T14:04:00.000-08:00

The National Corvette Museum has named the entire month of December “Dollar Days” for residents of Kentucky who visit the Museum. All month long, Kentucky residents can tour the Museum for a $1.00 admission per person, and will only need to show a Kentucky drivers license to take advantage of the special admission offer. Children will be admitted at the $1.00 price with adults presenting the Kentucky identification.

Guests visiting will also be able to see the Museum’s completed 47,000 sq. ft. expansion including the Corvette Café, Library/Archives and Corvette Store. Corvette Boulevard features an indoor street scene with a barrel roof, street lights and sidewalks, and provides access to many new areas of the Museum’s building expansion.

The Museum features over 80 Corvettes, from the 1953, the first Corvette to capture the hearts of America, to one-of-a-kind prototypes, the only 1983 in existence and historic Corvettes normally unavailable to the general public. Guests can also sit behind the wheel of a new Corvette and photograph the experience, and race against the clock to change tires, fuel up and keep our Corvette race car in the lead as part of our Pit Crew Challenge exhibit.“Dollar Days” is the Museum’s way of giving back to Kentucky residents for their support and also gives them an opportunity to see first-hand why the Corvette is one of the state’s greatest resources and a true sports car. “We are proud to be able to showcase our Museum dedicated to this extraordinary automobile and celebrate, educate and preserve Corvette’s legendary past and future,” states NCM Executive Director, Wendell Strode. “Each visit to the Museum is different because things are ever changing, and guests visiting in December will be able to see new displays including a temporary Corvair exhibit and some of their favorites. We look forward to welcoming our Kentucky friends.” Visitors can also take a chance to win a 2010 Corvette for only $10 and do some holiday shopping in our new 4,600 square-foot Corvette Store offering unique gift items found nowhere else.

The National Corvette Museum is a member-driven, non-profit foundation dedicated to educating the public through the preservation of the Corvette’s past, present and future heritage.

Open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT, the Museum is located at Exit 28 off I-65 in Bowling Green, KY. For more information on the National Corvette Museum, visit our website at: www.corvettemuseum.org or call (800) 53-VETTE (83883).

NCM Offers "Free Admission" to Recognize U.S. Military, Firemen and Police Officers During November's "Military Appreciation Month

2009-11-17T13:14:00.000-08:00

November is "Military Appreciation Month" at the National Corvette Museum and all military personnel, firemen, police officers and their immediate families will receive "Free Admission" during the entire month of November. All branches including active, retired and reserve members will be honored with free admission when presenting a military or service ID.
The newly-expanded, 115,000 square-foot Museum features over 80 rare and classic Corvettes from the past, present and future along with many interactive displays including the "Pit Crew Challenge," new hands-on trivia games and much more. The expansion also includes a new Corvette Cafe, a perfect 'pit stop' for breakfast, lunch or an afternoon snack.

In conjunction with Veterans Day on November 11th, we are offering free admission for the entire month to these service men and women to honor those who fight and protect our country and our freedom. "We are truly a blessed nation and our military provide the safety we have to enjoy our American privileges," states NCM Executive Director, Wendell Strode. "Corvette is an American icon and we invite these special individuals and their family members to experience a tour of the Museum dedicated to America’s favorite sports car."

The National Corvette Museum is a member-driven, non-profit foundation dedicated to continuing the mission of education, preservation and celebration of the Corvette’s past, present and future heritage. Regular updates and details on special promotions, events and important Corvette news announcements are sent weekly via our eNewsletter – "NCM eNews" available by subscribing at: http://www.corvettemuseum.com/ncmenews/.

Open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT, the Museum is located at Exit 28 on I-65 in Bowling Green, KY. For more information on the Museum visit us at:http://www.corvettemuseum.org/ or call 800-538-3883.

2010 National Corvette Museum Events Posted

2009-10-28T11:25:00.000-07:00

The NCM has locked in our Corvette events for the 2010 season! Below are the dates so mark your calendars. More information on each individual event will be posted online at a later time.

Family Fun Weekend - January 16-17
C5/C6 Bash - April 29-May 1
The Gathering - May 13 - 15
Forum Cruise-In - May 27 - 29
Father's Day Brunch - June 20
High Performance Driving Event at VIR - June 28 - 29
NCM Birthday Bash - September 2 - 4
Z06 Fest - September 16 - 18
Pace Car Reunion - September 23 - 25
Vets 'n Vettes - November 4 - 6
Breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus - November 27

What's in the Museum Now?

2009-10-22T11:31:00.000-07:00

The National Corvette Museum is a living museum with constantly changing display cars. Below is a list of what's on display right now!

Total Cars on Display – 88
Total Cars Owned by Members – 43
Total Cars Owned by GM – 26
Total Cars Owned by NCM – 21
Total Cars Owned by Others - 12

Vehicle Description, Date Arrived - Scheduled Date of Pickup

Revolving Circle
1968 Astro-Vette, April 2009 - March 2010

Lobby
2005 Silver Convertible (C6 Sitter Car), Jan. 2005-Not Determined

Corvette Boulevard
1980 Vette for Vet’s , Oct 2008 - Oct. 2009

Gateway
1959 Black Convertible, June 2004 - N/A
1962 Fawn Beige Convertible, Aug. 2006 - N/A

Barber Shop
1953 White Convertible, Aug. 1994 - N/A

Zora
1974 Blue Coupe, Feb. 1998 - N/A

Mobil Station
1954 Red Roadster, April 2009 - April 2010
1957 Black Convertible, N/A

Route 66
1966 Blue Coupe, April 2009 - April 2010
1958 Silver Olive Convertible, Dec. 2008 - Dec. 2009

Assembly Plant
1972 LT-1 Silver Convertible, Aug. 2007 - Sept. 2008
1973 White Convertible, Aug. 2001 - Negotiable

Dealership
1965 Blue Coupe, March 2008 - March 2009
1965 White Coupe, October 2008 - October 2009
1965 Open Chassis, Dec. 2008 - June 2009

Performance Area
1963 Z06 Race Car, N/A
1959 Fuelie, Sept. 2009 - Sept. 2010
1954 Pizza Man, May 2009 - May 2010
1989 ZR-1 Morrison, Aug. 1994 – Not Determined
IMSA GTP, April 2005 – Not Determined
#7 Owens Corning Race Car, Sept. 2009 - Sept. 2010
1972 GT1 Racer #40, Aug. 2005 – Not Determined

Nurburgring Track
2008 Sunset Orange ZR1, April 2009 – Not Determined

Design Area
C5R Homologation Car, Jan. 2005 – Not Determined
Black Concept , April 2002 – Not Determined
Corvette Indy Concept
Red Concept, April 2002 – Not Determined

Engineering Area
C5 Rolling Chassis
C6 Red Seating Buck, Mar. 2004 – Not Determined
Z06 Aluminum Frame, June 2006 – Not Determined

Crash Test
1997 White Coupe

Sky-Dome / Outer Circle
1978 Pace Car, Not Determined
1986 Pace Car, June 2002 – Not Determined
1995 Pace Car
1998 Pace Car
2003 Pace Car, March 2003 - Not Determined
2004 Pace Car, March 2005 - Not Determined
2005 Pace Car, March 2006 - Not Determined
2007 Pace Car, Sept. 2007 - Not Determined
2008 Pace Car, April 2009 - April 2010
2005 Red Coupe (Dempster Corvette), Sept. 2007 – Not Determined
2005 NASCAR Mexico Pace Car , June 2008 - June 2009
2004 Daytona 500 Pace Car, April 2005 – Not Determined
1986 Malcolm Konner
2008 Wil Cooksey Edition Z06, July 2008 – Not Determined
2007 Ron Fellows Z06, March 2008 – Not Determined

Sky-Dome / Inner Circle
1977 White Coupe 500,000th, May 2009 - May 2010
1992 White Convertible 100,000th
1969 Orange Roadster, April 2008 - April 2009
1971 LT-1 Blue Coupe, Not Determined
1981 Red Coupe, March 2008 - March 2009
1987 Red Callaway, Aug. 2005- Not Determined
1998 Aztec Gold Coupe, March 2009 - March 2010
1989 ZR-1 Yellow Coupe Geneva
1995 #3 Grand Sport Prototype, Sept. 2006- Not Determined
1983 White Coupe “The one and only”
1993 ZR1 Black Spyder, Sept. 2006- Not Determined
1990 ZR-1 Cutaway Chassis
1989 Red ZR12 Falconer, April 2009 - Sept. 2009
1968 Astro II, April 2009 - Sept. 2009
1995 ZR1 Red Coupe (The Last One)
1953 White Convertible, Sept. 2009 - Sept. 2010
2009 White Convertible (1,500,000th), Sept. 2009 - Not Determined

Exhibit Hall
1960 700 Sedan Corvair, Oct. 2009 - Dec. 2009
1961 Station Wagon Corvair, Oct. 2009- Dec. 2009
1963 Rampside Corvair, Oct. 2009- Dec. 2009
1964 Spyder Conv. Corvair, Oct. 2009- Dec. 2009
1965 Fitch Sprint Corvair, Oct. 2009 - Dec. 2009
1966 Yenko Stinger Corvair, Oct. 2009- Dec. 2009
1969 Monza Conv. Corvair, Oct. 2009- Dec. 2009
1964 Monza Coupe Corvair, Oct. 2009- Dec. 2009
1964 Monza 4-door Sedan Corvair, Oct. 2009- Dec. 2009
1965 Greenbrier Sportswagon, Oct. 2009- Dec. 2009
1967 Monza Sedan Corvair, Oct. 2009- Dec. 2009
1966 Corsa Coupe Corvair, Oct. 2009- Dec. 2009

National Corvette Museum’s 15th Anniversary a Success

2009-09-24T08:32:00.000-07:00

Event attendance topped 24,000 over five days
Labor Day weekend 2009 saw one of the world’s largest moving automotive events take place as Corvettes from all over the country participated in Caravan 09. As part of the 15th Anniversary and Grand Reopening of the National Corvette Museum, over 4,500 Corvettes came from all over the United States, Canada, Netherlands, the UK and Australia, got together in major cities as they grew in numbers and then converged on Bowling Green Kentucky.

As the “Gateway to All Things Corvette” the National Corvette Museum held a ribbon cutting ceremony welcoming Corvette enthusiasts to the newly expanded 115,000 sq. ft. facility, and hosted a five-day event that included a special exhibit of rare Corvettes, seminars with Corvette designers, engineers and experts, GM Assembly Plant tours, road trips, drag racing, autocross and a surprise appearance by the Stingray Corvette concept car that played the role of “Sideswipe” in the Paramount film Transformers 2: Revenge of the Fallen. Attendance over the five-day event exceeded 24,000, as visitors toured the new facility including the exhibit hall, library and archives, Corvette café and interactive exhibits.

Three 2010 Corvettes and $15,000 in cash were raffled off and several cash drawings were held for those who pre-registered for the event. The annual membership meeting was held yielding great ideas and feedback for the Museum team, a special reception recognizing Lifetime Members took place after hours at the Museum and four Corvette elite were inducted into the Corvette Hall of Fame at the annual dinner. News and developments of the planned NCM Motorsports Park were shared, and more details can be found on the new website at http://www.motorsportspark.org/.

Museum Executive Director Wendell Strode commented afterward, "The tremendous success of this event says a lot about the love people have for – America's sports car, and for fellow car enthusiasts." The Museum welcomed 1,875 new members to the Corvette family during the event.

Fast Facts:

- 25 Broad Range Caravans, some made up of 2-3 smaller caravans, largest composed of over 900 Corvettes
- Over 4,500 Corvettes in attendance and 5,290 people were registered for the event
- 5,290 people were registered for the event
- Overall event attendance topped 24,000
- 1,875 enthusiasts became new members of the Museum

2010 Torch Red Corvette Coupe Raffle Opens

2009-09-15T11:50:00.000-07:00

Tickets Only $10 Each - Winner to be Drawn January 28

The National Corvette Museum has begun a Corvette raffle fundraiser featuring a 2010 Torch Red Corvette Coupe. This Corvette raffle car features a six-speed transmission, paddle shift with automatic modes, NPP dual-mode performance exhaust, removable transparent roof panel, ebony leather seats, 5-spoke forged chrome aluminum wheels and an audio system with 6-disc in-dash CD changer and MP3 playback. The winner will be drawn on Thursday, January 28 at 2:00 p.m. CT. Tickets are available at $10 each with an unlimited number of tickets to be sold.

The winner of the new Corvette will also be able to take part in the Museum’s highly requested “R8C Museum Delivery Program” which provides a private VIP tour of the Corvette Assembly Plant and Museum, a hands-on demonstration by a trained NCM Delivery Team member and includes a one-year Individual Membership to the Museum. In addition, an “R8C Delivery” decal and plaque exclusive to only Museum Corvette Delivery participants will be presented to the winner. R8C deliveries are viewed world-wide via the Museum’s webcams available at: http://www.corvettemuseum.org/webcam/

“The success of our raffle fundraisers is a team effort and one that we could not count on without the help of our ambassadors, members and supporters,” states NCM Executive Director, Wendell Strode. “As a non-profit foundation, we are always creatively using other means to raise funds and continue our mission. The Corvette raffles we offer each year are a tremendous help to us and we appreciate the support of everyone who buys a ticket and helps promote them.”

Tickets for the Red Corvette Coupe are available online at: http://www.corvettemuseum.org/raffle/ or they can be purchased by calling (800) 53-VETTE (83883). The raffle is available to participants world-wide and is void where prohibited by law. Participants do not have to be present to win. Previous raffle winners are posted via our website at: http://www.corvettemuseum.org/raffle_winners/.

The National Corvette Museum is a non-profit foundation dedicated to the mission of education, celebration and preservation of Corvette and its heritage. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT, the Museum is located at Exit 28 off I-65 in Bowling Green, KY. For more information on the National Corvette Museum visit our website at: http://www.corvettemuseum.org/ or call (800) 53-VETTE (83883).

National Corvette Museum to Host Special Corvair Exhibit

2009-09-14T11:40:00.000-07:00

Corvair Celebrates 50th Anniversary on October 2

October 2nd of this year marks the 50th anniversary of the unveiling of America’s first mass produced rear engine, air cooled automobile, the Corvair. In recognizing this special time in automotive history the National Corvette Museum will host a 6,000 sq. ft. exhibit solely featuring the Corvair.

“Occasionally we have ‘second season’ exhibits as a way to draw people in to the Museum,” said Executive Director, Wendell Strode. “We have found that often our non-Corvette exhibits bring in folks who may not have otherwise visited and in doing so are able to educate others on the Corvette.”

The Corvette and Corvair’s history overlap in many ways. Looking for a new and innovative design, designers used the new Corvette model as the basis for the new Corvair. Some called the car the "Corvette Corvair." In fact, former Chief Engineer for Chevrolet Ed Cole was key in the development and promotion of both, and former GM Design Chief Bill Mitchell designed the interior on certain years of the Corvair, and was instrumental to Corvette’s overall design from the late 50s through early 80s. These common denominators were strong selling points for Corvair’s temporary presence in the National Corvette Museum.

The 1954 Corvair and the 1960 Corvair have nothing in common but for the name. The ‘54 Corvair used the Corvette front end, had ribbed air intakes on the hood and fender vents. It had a wrap-around windshield and the fastback roof swept into a chrome-trimmed licensed plate housing. The rooftop seems to have simply been inserted upon a Corvette body as there was no storage behind the rear seats. The chassis and power train of the Corvair was Corvette 100%. Its windshield had a 53-degree slant. The interior of the car was really a ‘54 Corvette. Aside from the Corvette, the Corvair was the only American automobile that consistently appeared at American rallies, autocross meets, hillclimbs and sports car racing events.

Besides the first year four-door sedan and two-door coupe, the Chevrolet Corvair fleet included a station wagon (Lakewood), pick-up truck (Rampside and Loadside), panel van (Corvan), passenger van (Greenbrier), Spyder, Corsa and other specialty versions like the Fitch Sprint and the Yenko Stinger. Visitors to the Museum will not only see over 80 Corvettes on display, but also some of the finest Corvairs in the country including a: 1960 Sedan; 1964 Spyder Convertible; 1961 Lakewood; 1969 Monza Convertible; 1966 Corsa Coupe; 1966 Yenko Singer; 1965 Fitch Sprint; 1963 Rampside; 1964 Coupe; 1966 Sedan; 1965 Greenbrier and 1964 4-Door Sedan. The Corvair was produced from 1960 through 1969.

“In our minds, Corvette is the God and we’ve been allowed to participate in their heaven,” said Corvair Exhibit Chairperson Greg Scarboro. “We’ve been looked upon as the poor man’s sports car enthusiast, so to us it is very much an honor to be allowed in the Corvette Museum.”

The exhibit offers the chance to take an informative stroll down memory lane and learn about the rise and demise of the Corvair, and their similarities with the Corvette. The display will be on exhibit from October 2 through December 31, 2009. The National Corvette Museum is located in Bowling Green, Kentucky on I-65 at exit 28. The Museum is open daily from 8am until 5pm. For more information call 800-53-VETTE (83883) or visit the Museum website at http://www.corvettemuseum.org/.

Transformers Concept Corvette ‘Sideswipe’ on Temporary Display at the National Corvette Museum

2009-09-01T14:57:00.001-07:00

Visitors to the Museum can view a piece of Hollywood

Visitors to the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky will get an extra special treat September 5 through 9th when they visit the Museum. Sideswipe - the Chevrolet Corvette concept vehicle character from the new “Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen,” movie is on display on Corvette Boulevard and will be unveiled Saturday. Sideswipe is a sleek concept created by Corvette Designers and is influenced by the original Sting Ray race car, introduced in 1959.

“In honor of the 50th anniversary of the original Corvette Sting Ray concept racer, GM Design created an all new Sting Ray Vision that is a homage to the original 1959 concept and continues the long tradition of Corvette Concept Cars,” said Harlan Charles, Chevrolet Corvette Marketing Manager. “This futuristic Sting Ray vision of America’s performance icon was featured as Sideswipe in Transformers 2,” he added.

The concept, along with the four other Chevrolet Transformer Autobots, debuted at the Chicago Auto Show in February. The DreamWorks Pictures and Paramount Pictures film opened in the United States on June 26. The car is on display as part of the National Corvette Museum’s 15th Anniversary Celebration event.

The National Corvette Museum is located at I-65, exit 28 in Bowling Green, Kentucky and is open daily 8am to 5pm. The Museum will be open until 8pm on Wednesday, September 2, Friday, September 4 and Saturday, September 5. For more information, visit http://www.corvettemuseum.org/ or call 800-53-VETTE (83883).

KSP to Participate in National Corvette Museum 15th Anniversary Celebration and Caravan

2009-09-01T13:19:00.000-07:00

The Kentucky State Police are participating in the Corvette Museum 15th Anniversary Celebration and National Caravan. KSP will escort four separate caravans of Corvettes traveling to the Bowling Green Museum from across the country.

As a unique twist, each of the caravans will be escorted by a Corvette detailed to resemble a marked KSP cruiser including flashing blue lights.

The Corvettes that will be driven by KSP personnel are on-loan for the day from local owners. Drivers include Commissioner Rodney Brewer, Lt. Col. Mike Sapp, Captain Deron Berthold and Trooper Mike Hatler.

KSP units will escort the caravans as they enter the Commonwealth and remain with the groups until they arrive safely at the museum.

The Corvette Caravans traveling to Kentucky will originate in Georgia, Indiana, Nebraska and North Carolina. These caravans will pick up additional Corvette drivers in Florida, Kansas, Michigan, Montana, South Carolina, Tennessee and Wyoming with the final destination set for the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green.

The museum has a full weekend of events planned to celebrate their 15th anniversary. Activities include special displays such as “Firsts and Lasts;” showing the first and last model of each generation of Corvettes, entertainment in the Museum's amphitheater, daily arrivals of Corvette Caravans from across the U.S., and the completed renovation of the entire Corvette Museum which is ready to tour and enjoy!

Caravans will begin arriving in Bowling Green at noon, Sept. 2, 2009 and will continue through 3 p.m. (central time) on Friday when the last caravan is set to arrive. Over 5,000 guests and spectators are expected to be on hand for the celebration. A view of Corvettes for miles is a sight to see and the staggered arrivals give participants a chance to both be greeted on arriving and be greeters for the next group

For more information about this event, please contact the National Corvette Museum at 1-800-53-VETTE or visit their website at http://www.corvettemuseum.org/

One-of-a-kind Corvettes to be Displayed for a Limited Time

2009-09-01T12:22:00.000-07:00

Visitors will have just one week to view the Mako Shark, Manta Ray, Aerovette and Stingray Racer

You had posters of them on your bedroom wall as a kid, maybe even a book featuring their sleek designs. Now, for a very limited time, you can see these one-of-a-kind concept cars in person at the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky. The four Chevrolet Corvettes, a 1961 Mako Shark Concept, 1965 Manta Ray Concept, 1973 Aerovette Concept and 1959 Stingray Racer, are all on loan from the General Motors Heritage Center in Sterling Heights, Michigan.

“These cars were some of the top prototypes developed by GM and hold a significant place in Corvette’s history,” said Betty Hardison, NCM Library and Archives Coordinator. “They were on display when the Museum held the grand opening in 1994, so it was fitting to have them back for this grand re-opening event, 15 years later.”

The temporary display begins Tuesday, September 1 and continues through Wednesday, September 9, as part of the Museum’s 15th Anniversary Celebration. The cars can be viewed in the National Corvette Museum’s new Exhibit Hall. The Museum is located at I-65, exit 28 and is open daily, 8am-5pm Central Time. The Museum will have extended hours on Friday, September 4 and Saturday, September 5, closing at 8pm. For more information please contact the National Corvette Museum at 800-53-VETTE (83883) or visit us online at www.corvettemuseum.org.

About the Display Cars

Mako Shark
The Mako Shark was designed by Larry Shinoda under the direction of GM Design head Bill Mitchell in 1961 as a concept for future Chevrolet Corvettes. In keeping with the name, the streamlining, pointed snout and other detailing were partly inspired by the look of that very fast fish. The “Mako Shark” was very similar to the 1963 production Corvette it inspired, with some alterations. These included adding two more brake lights in the rear (six total), making the nose of the car longer and more pointed, creating a clear glass roof with a periscope-like rear-view mirror and remodeling the interior.

Manta Ray
In 1969 development began on the Manta Ray, created through a transformation of the Mako Shark II primarily from the cockpit to the rear of this elaborate car. Only the tapered “boat tail” motif remained with the addition of a new and considerably longer rear end in place of the abrupt duck tail. During the winter of 1969-70, the Manta Ray underwent subtle additional changes. These were the last changes to a dream car that had since become reality.

Aerovette
In 1976, the 1973 Corvette 4-Rotor concept was taken out of storage and renamed the Aerovette. The double rotary engine was replaced with a transversally mounted 400 CID V8 engine. Bill Mitchell, Vice President of Design, lobbied for the Aerovette as the next Corvette and GM chairman and CEO, Thomas Murphy actually approved the Aerovette for 1980 production. In the end, management decided that they were selling every fiberglass bodied, front engine V8 “traditional” Corvette they could build, so why make a huge risky investment in a mid-engine car. The Aerovette project was cancelled.

Stingray Racer
Bill Mitchell wanted to build a Corvette racecar capable of beating Europe’s best. With an AMA ban on manufacturer-sponsored racing, the project had to be privately financed and the design could not have any recognizable association with Chevrolet. With Mitchell’s own time and money heavily invested into the project, he contracted Larry Shinoda to assist in the development of the revolutionary concept.

Combining the 1957 SS chassis with the new fiberglass body resulted in a sleek and muscular roadster. Mitchell’s Stingray was completed in 1959 with the engineering help of Zora Arkus-Duntov. Accomplished SCCA driver Dick Thompson raced the Stingray and piloted it to two consecutive class championships. At the end of the 1960 season, Mitchell retired the Stingray from competition, detuned it, added a full windshield and passenger seat, drove it on the street and exhibited it as an experimental show car.

Shortest Caravan Departs Tonight

2009-09-01T12:06:00.000-07:00

Local Residents will have their chance to see a caravan of Corvettes

They come from all across the U.S… the miles of Corvettes traveling the country’s highways and byways to convene in Bowling Green. But what about those fiberglass beauties that already call South Central Kentucky home? Area residents can join in what has been deemed the “shortest caravan”, departing tonight, Tuesday, September 1 at 6:00 p.m. from the WKU Ag Expo Center on Elrod Road.

The caravan will travel a whopping 12.5 miles, up the Natcher Parkway and I-65 North to the National Corvette Museum. Dozens of Corvettes are already pre-registered to attend and spectators are welcome! There’s no cost to participate, and the Corvette Café will be open at the Museum upon arrival so participants can enjoy refreshments.