Mike (Lance) Billotte’s Birthday Party in the “Cave Room” at Old Germany Restaurant
Upcoming events:
July 1 – Monthly Meeting – Shorty Small’s Restaurant, I-40 & Meridian. Come At 6pm to Eat and Visit, Business Meeting At 7pm
July 20 – Redhawks Baseball & Bass Pro Shop (details at the monthly meeting)
July 26 – Dennis & LuAnne Tie the Knot! RSVP if you have not done so!
COVTR STAFF
PRESIDENT
Jerry Stewart
5100 Trail Ridge Ln
Choctaw, OK 73020
(405) 391-6392
VICE-PRESIDENT
Jean Scott Gauldin
Edmond, OK 73034
(405) 844-0413
TREASURER
Bill Gingerich
18600 Andrew Ln
Newalla, OK 74857-8774
(405) 386-4777
SECRETARY
Nancy Wise
3900 Patterson Dr
Edmond OK 73013
(405) 285-7157
howard87@cox.net
HISTORIAN BOY
Mike Billotte
8101 NW 28th St
Bethany, OK 73008
(405) 789-1725
piwac@swbell.net
MEMBERSHIP
Jean Scott Gauldin
Edmond, OK 73034
(405) 844-0413
MEMBER-AT-LARGE
Dennis Eckhout
641 Jean Marie DR
Norman, OK 73069
(405) 366-0137
deckhout@sbcglobal.net
ACTIVITIES
Anne Gingerich
18600 Andrew Ln
Newalla, OK 74857-8774
(405) 386-4777
raggetyannie@yahoo.com
NEWSLETTER EDITOR
John Gauldin
Edmond, OK 73034
(405) 250-0903
WEBMASTER
Kay Wall
(405) 341-7134
MISSION STATEMENT
The Central Oklahoma Vintage Triumph Register (C.O.V.T.R.) was established in 1982 by Triumph owners and enthusiasts for the purpose of preserving the future of the Triumph Marque. Triumph ownership is encouraged but not a prerequisite for membership. The C.O.V.T.R. sponsors a monthly meeting, monthly SOB’s, car shows, road tours and technical inspections.
From Your President:
Well folks, here it is July 2008 and once again it’s time for our monthly newsletter. The summer solstice occurred last week so I guess it’s officially summer in Oklahoma. At my house and probably yours too, summer has already been around for several weeks. I must say however, after seeing all the devastation in the upper Midwest, Oklahoma’s weather is great.
June was an interesting and enjoyable month, at least in terms of things happening with COVTR. With the New Mexico trip and Mike Billotte’s 70th birthday party, June was indeed a great month.
I would like to say thanks to everyone who participated in Mike’s BIG 70 surprise birthday party and the Saturday Run on the 21st. The turnout was great. If I remember correctly, there were nine cars on the road…..including Max and Linda Speegle. It was certainly good seeing Oz and the Speegles on the road again! Now COVTR is back to normal.
Mikes birthday party day started with a morning, top down drive through eastern Oklahoma County, up through Chandler then down old Route 66 where we ended up at the Old Germany Restaurant in Choctaw. We all gathered around tables and booths inside the “Cave” (the owner refers to it as the beer garden). I never quite understood “beer garden” since the ceiling and walls are covered with rocks. Regardless, the cave is a great place to have a get together, eat great food and celebrate someone’s birthday. I truly believe Mike was “surprised” at his surprise birthday party. His daughter, granddaughter and son-in-law drove down from Tulsa to be with him. Michael Lake, our temporarily displaced member stationed in Italy, came in from Texas, where he is attending an Air Force training school, to surprise Mike. Mike even got a phone call from Kathie Lake, who was still in Italy, wishing him a happy birthday. Lonny Wall sang his famous birthday song and we all joined in to wish him a great 70th birthday. As mentioned, the food was excellent and Mike’s German Black Forrest birthday cake made the end of a special day even more enjoyable. He even blew his candle out!! A great milestone for an absolutely great guy! Mike, happy birthday from all the COVTR guys and gals and we hope you have 70 more.
Before ending, I must mention our June New Mexico trip hosted by John and Jeannie Gauldin. If you missed it, you missed an event! Without a doubt, New Mexico has some of the most beautiful country I have ever seen. Whether you like the desert, the mountains or the in between, New Mexico has it all. A photographers dream!! It’s also a great place that gives your Triumph a good workout. Please check out Sue Stewarts New Mexico article for a preview. She will give you a little insight as to what we did and saw during our four days on the road. Let me add this, if the Gauldin’s host the trip again next year, you need to seriously think about joining in. It’s a trip you will not soon forget.
Don’t forget this month’s event. On July 20th, Bill and Anne Gingerich are hosting a Oklahoma City Redhawks baseball game at the Bricktown Ballpark, plus a trip through the Bass Pro hunting and fishing store. I’m looking forward to that one.
One more thing: Can anyone besides me tell the difference in their gas mileage when using our new corn gas? I filled Spidy yesterday with Loves 89 octane (10% alcohol) and used 6 gallons to run a little over 90 miles. That’s about 15 mpg!! My truck got that pulling Spidy to New Mexico last month. Hummm!! See everyone at our next meeting. Please drive safe.
Jerry Stewart
From the Veep:
Like the Corners of My Mind
One of our members, and former presidents, was with us briefly when we gathered to celebrate Mike Billotte’s birthday. Michael Lake is in the U.S. Air Force stationed in Aviano, Italy. He happened to be coming to El Paso for some training and decided to come to Oklahoma City to be with Mike, and the rest of us, for the weekend.
What a great surprise to see Michael and hear all about his, Kathie’s and Richard’s life in Italy. Michael was last deployed to Afghanistan and is facing his next deployment probably this fall (location unknown by this author). It really felt good to have Michael here and re-connect with us. I watched at the ease with which old members settled into conversation with him as if he had not been gone 1 ½ years. I also notice how new members visited with him because of the common interest in Triumphs, yes, but also because the COVTR is a group of friends.
26 people helped to celebrate Mike’s birthday – whether during the drive prior to the party or gathering at Old Germany to wish Mike the best. 26 friends who wanted to make sure Mike knew how much his friendship meant to them. And on July 26 I hope to see many of you at another special event for some of our COVTR members. That is the date of LuAnne and Dennis’s wedding. Now that’s a special occasion!
Great to have friends, and great to have occasions to be with friends. I look forward to seeing you at the next occasion.
Jean Scott Gauldin
Activities Report
The Summer Solstice Synopsis… the midpoint of our tour through 2008 activities.
I hope many of you were able to drive your British car a lot during British Car Week. We couldn’t, as the Spitfire was suffering from a damaged rear axle.
I’d like to extend a big thank you to everyone who attended the June meeting on the 3rd for helping to celebrate my 50th birthday. A special thanks to Lonny Wall for the happy birthday song – a version he’ll be leading whenever present at future B-day events. I’d also like to ask “Clark Kent” to use his super powers to send employment opportunities Bill’s way.
Since Bill & I were again unable to attend the NM tour led by the Gauldins, I’m looking forward to reading and hearing all the details of this year’s event. Perhaps we could have a presentation at one of our meetings? There’s a projection screen at Shorty’s.
Jerry and Sue Stewart’s SOB event was an enjoyable drive on the 21st, save for one “flat” moment for Lonny & Kay’s vehicle. Always prepared, as any good Boy Scout would be, he changed it in a snap after a little human lifting power allowed him to get the jack positioned just right. We marked the spot with a solemn cross – an empty beer bottle stuck upside down in a fence post, topped with a shredded retread. Back on the road, our drive terminated at The Old Germany restaurant with lunch and a surprise birthday party for our beloved historian boy, Mike Billotte. It was awesome! Mike’s daughter Creanete was there with her husband and daughter Addison. Max and Linda Speegle came out, and Michael Lake made a surprise appearance while back from his station in Italy for some training in Texas. If you’re keeping score, Monsieur Billotte’s actual DOB is 06/22. Time of arrival was around 4:00 AM.
Howard and Nancy Wise are the point of contact for this year’s Red River Shootout. The first planning meeting took place at the Wise’s house June 22nd, and was well attended. There will be more meetings in the future, and opportunities for anyone to get involved in this event. We’ll need everyone’s attendance in October so we can pass those dreaded Red Shorts back across the border where they belong!
Cheers, Anne Gingerich
Membership Meeting Minutes
May 6, 2008
The meeting was called to order by President Jerry Stewart at 7:05 pm. Anne Gingerich is celebrating her 50th birthday today. Lonny Wall volunteered to sing happy birthday to Anne. He sang his own version, circa 1955. Everyone had a good laugh. Happy Birthday, Anne!
Minutes of the previous meeting were approved.
Treasurer’s Report: Bill Gingerich
Membership Report: Jean Scott-Gauldin
No report.
Activities: Anne Gingerich
Anne stated that British Car Week is now through June 8. No one is attending TRA on June 11.
Anne also reported that the last SOB was to Mt. Scott and Meers on May 4. Beth Gilbert stated that everyone enjoyed Mt. Scott and thanked the Wises for leading the trip.
John Gauldin reminded everyone that the New Mexico trip is beginning Friday and that currently twelve people are going. There is still time to join the group, just call John. They will meet at the Braums at I-40 and Garth Brooks Blvd in Yukon at 7 a.m. The trip is June 6 through 9.
Dennis Eckhout reported that on June 14 the European Car Show will held in Sands Springs. The entry fee is $20.00. He invited anyone who is interested to join him and LuAnne. After the show, the plan is to go to the White Lion in Tulsa for lunch.
The Scheduled SOB for June is on the 21st. It is to be led by Jerry and Sue Stewart. It was originally to be a trip to Stroud and to eat at the Rock Café. The café burned last month so a change of plans was made. The trip will now be to Amber with lunch at Ken’s Restaurant. Jerry will send out and e-mail with particulars when they return from the New Mexico trip.
Howard Wise announced that the first planning meeting for the Red River Shootout will be held at 7:00 p.m. on June 24 at the Wises in Edmond. It will be a hamburger supper.
The Shattuck Car Show is again scheduled for September. Entry forms are available.
Newsletter: John Gauldin
John commented on the great picture of the group taken at the top of Mt. Scott. He could not figure out who took the picture since Kay Wall was not on the trip and Jerry Stewart was in the picture. (The picture was taken by Dempsey Gross, friend and guest of Howard and Nancy Wise who joined us on the trip). He also reported that the winner of the Mystery Picture contest in the newsletter was Dennis Eckhout.
Old Business:
Kay Wall suggested that the club needs a new banner. Jerry Stewart stated that he would check into procuring a new one. Kay also said that she needs pictures of cars and drivers that are not currently in her file. Jerry said he would be happy to take any needed at next SOB. Kay will also take a picture or you can just send or bring her one.
New Business:
Mike Billotte brought up the fact that the club’s liability insurance is up for renewal. This policy protects the club’s assets in case of lawsuits, etc. over problems at functions and indemnifies the officers in case of suits, etc. The cost for the insurance is $5.00 per person for an average of twenty-five members at activities and $50.00 to cover officers. This makes the cost $175.00 for one year. Lonny Wall made two motions, one to cover the cost of membership coverage and a second to cover the cost of insuring officers. Bill Gingerich seconded both motions. Discussion followed. A call for a show of hands vote was requested. Both motions passed unanimously.
B&B:
Bill Gingerich noted that he and Anne celebrate both their birthdays and their wedding anniversary in a ten day period at the end of May and the beginning of June. Jim Ware announced that he and Judy are celebrating thirty-five years of marriage this month. Lonny and Kay Wall announced that they will celebrate forty-five years of marriage on June 25. Frank Steindl presented a sign which stated, INVU2. Dennis Eckhout sang the praises of his new car buffer and the great results it had on Jerry Wall’s Stag.
Anne Gingerich moved and Howard Wise seconded adjournment. Adjourned
Road Trip to Northern New Mexico
Last year Jerry and I were very disappointed when the dates of John and Jeannie’s New Mexico trip conflicted with finals and graduation at OCU. This made it impossible for us to get away. Needless to say, we were very excited to learn this year’s trip was scheduled during summer break. Nothing to stop us now! Our plans were to load Spidy and pack our truck the night before in order to get a good night’s rest. As usual, the infamous Oklahoma weather had other ideas. With the threat of storms, large hail, tornados and no electricity, loading Spidy and the truck had to wait until early next morning. Thankfully, the storms passed and our first travel day began with perfect weather. By 6:00 a.m., we were on our way to meet our fellow travelers, John and Jean Gauldin, Mike and Bonnie Billotte, Lonny and Kay Wall, Kelly and Beth Gilbert, and Jim and Judy Ware. Five Triumphs in tow and one Lexus headed toward the Ohkay Owingeh Hotel/Casino in Espanola, New Mexico. When we arrived we checked in, unloaded our cars and headed out for our first of many wonderful meals of authentic New Mexican cuisine.
The next day we headed out on our western route, with a stop at Bandolier National Monument, the site of Indian ruins and 12th century Pueblo cliff dwellings. On the road again, we drove through the mountains towards the Valle Grand, where one of the world’s largest volcanic calderas was formed over a million years ago. It was amazing to see, and also was one of many great photo opportunities along the way. Our next stop was Jemez Springs where we had lunch. Some chose to take advantage of the healing hot mineral spring water for a soak and/or a massage. Others took photographs, shopped, or relaxed with a cool beverage or a dish of ice cream. It was wonderful just being in such a beautiful, peaceful place. Another stop was at the Ponderosa Valley Vineyards & Winery, where we sampled award-winning New Mexico wines. We hit the road again heading for Chimayo`. With no time to freshen up at our hotel, we barely made it in time for our diner reservations at the historic Rancho de Chimayo` restaurant. The food and the margaritas were wonderful. A strolling guitar player, who sang and played for us, made the evening a very festive one. John and Jeannie joined in and serenaded each other with a love song or two. What fun!
Day two took us on the high road to Taos. Our first stop was the Sanctuario de Chimayo`, whose main claim to fame is the “healing dirt” that is credited with cures for pretty much everything. Even Triumphs? Giving it a try, some was sprinkled on Wedgie, who had been giving Lonny and Kay a bit of trouble…it seemed to help! On across the mountains to Taos for shopping! Judy Ware was anxious to spend her winnings from the casino on jewelry. She bought a beautiful bracelet and some earrings. You go girl! I loved Taos. I’m hoping that we can spend more time there next year. We met for lunch at Orlando’s, where we had a wonderful, relaxing lunch on the patio under colorful umbrellas. We then headed out for one of the most beautiful drives I’ve ever been on. The scenery goes from high desert with red rocks and cactus to pine forests with snow-capped peaks and mountain wild flowers. The sky was a brilliant blue, and the air was crisp. We stopped at the Rio Grand Gorge, one of the most stunning river canyons in the country. It was beautiful . . and a long way to the bottom. Some of us had a little trouble with knocking knees, and didn’t venture all the way across. I won’t mention names. We were off again and soon stopped for another photo op and to play in the snow! We had a great time frolicking and throwing snowballs. The day was topped off with another wonderful dining experience. Good friends sharing food, travel tales and conversation.
The drive home was filled with great memories and much anticipation for next year’s trip. Thanks John and Jeannie for leading us on such a fabulous adventure.
– Sue Stewart
Classifieds:
For Sale:
Ashley GT Conversion Top – Also known as a “fast-back”. Rare and very hard to find! Includes deck lid, fits early Spitfires only (63-70). Personal pick-up only, no shipping. Asking $600 or best offer. Contact: Larry Melton 405-692-1094, located in South OKC area.
80 TR7 & 64 TR4
This is a sad day, indeed. The items listed above hold great memories. In 1982 or 83 when we joined the COVTR it never dawned on me this day would ever come but due to several things including, but not limited to, this particular time in my life (some people would want you to believe I might be getting old but don't you believe them) and the fact I no longer have storage space for the cars has brought me to this conclusion to liquidate. Many of you know me and are familiar with my cars, even though Janet and I have not been active in the club for several years. You probably will remember I first had a 1959 TR3A (modified) we drove on all the trips, the first extended one to the Nationals in Albany, NY with a few other brave club members. Also, many other trips to the Nationals at various places around these United States. Someday, if the members would like I would be glad to write an article covering some interesting points along the way.
I bought the TR4 in 1993 and spent a couple of years doing a complete frame off cosmetic restoration, only replacing mechanical parts as necessary, inasmuch as it ran and drove quite well and it still does. It is equipped with overdrive, although not presently functioning properly. The overdrive quit on me on the return trip from the regional meet in College Station, TX a few years ago and I have never had it repaired. No more than I drive it I just didn't see the need.
I bought the TR7 Roadster in 1985. It was in great shape physically but didn't run well. Overhaul of the carbs fixed that but it was always hard to start. I eventually replaced the automatic choking Strombergs with manual choking Strombergs off a TR6. It has subsequently started much better and runs great. It is equipped with a 5 speed manual transmission, air-conditioning not presently working (compressor frozen) but I have a couple of replacements and AM-FM CD player w/great sound system. It needs new struts, otherwise is a very nice serviceable, fun car.
The spare parts are varied, mostly for TR3 & TR4 including, but not limited to, transmission (no overdrive), clutch assemblies, front suspension, front rotors, rear drums and shoes, rear differential, axles, housing, hubs, drums and shoes complete, clutch and brake pedal assembly, brake and clutch master and slave cylinders, fuel tanks, carburetors both SU H-6 and Stromberg 175 CD, generators and starters. If you have a particular need, call me even though it may not be listed. Body parts for TR4 include rear fender, right or left; front fender, left only; door assembly with glass, right only; trunk lid with support.
Spitfire parts include Starter; generator; Stromberg carb; water pump; fuel pump; oil pump; master cylinder for clutch or brake; clutch assembly w/cover and disc; fuel tank; radiator; differential; driveshaft with U joint. Remember, this is not a complete listing so call me with your needs.
Clyde Lorance
1200 Mary Lee Lane
Edmond, OK 73034
Phone: Home 405-341-5521
Cell 405-202-0948
Email; clorance@sbcglobal.net
CENTRAL OKLAHOMA VINTAGE TRIUMPH REGISTER MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION
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NAME: _____________________________________________________________________
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AUTO #1: ______________________________________________________
AUTO #2: ______________________________________________________
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MAIL TO: TREASURER, BILL GINGERICH
18600 ANDREW LN
NEWALLA OK 74857-8774
__________________________________________________________________________
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Dues: $25 per year
Send to: VTR – Membership – 15218 W. Warren Ave. – Dearborn, MI 48126 U.S.A.
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TRIUMPHS OWNED: MODEL YEAR COMMISSION # CONDITION
AUTO #1: ______________________________________________________
AUTO #2: ______________________________________________________
AUTO #3: ______________________________________________________
AUTO #4: ______________________________________________________
CONDITION CODE: O=ORIGINAL, R=RESTORED, B=BEING RESTORED, P=PARTS CAR
COVTR Activities for 2008
Date Activity Notes POC
7/20 Baseball & BassPro Redhawks Game in Bricktown B&A Gingerich
7/26 Wedding Bells LuAnne & Dennis Get Married
8/4-8 VTR Nationals Ypsilanti,, MI www.natc2008.com
8/23 Drive-In Movie Guthrie OK, Movie TBA Jean Scott Gauldin
9/6 Mystery Breakfast Come Along, It Will Be Good! M&B Billotte
9/20 Progressive Dinner Fine Dining in Edmond K Wall & L Speegle
10/3-5 Vintage Racing Hallett Motor Racing
10/24-26 Red River Shootout No More Red Shorts! H&N Wise
11/7-9 Fall Foliage Tour Eureka Springs AK WHEEEE! J&J Gauldin / L Wall
12/6 Tour-O-Lights ~*Twinkle*~*Twinkle*~*Twinkle* M&B Billotte
12/14 Christmas Party Dinner & Dirty Santa H&N Wise
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COVTR
PO BOX 12272
OKLAHOMA CITY OK 73157-2272