Houston MG Car Club News

HMGCC May 2026 Newsletter

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 20:40:48 GMT

HMGCC April Newsletter

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 20:33:55 GMT

HMGCC April Meeting

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 16:17:33 GMT

Our April meeting was held on Saturday, April 4 at Spring Creek BBQ off the W. Grand Parkway. We had 21 attendees and 8 of which braved the threat of rain and drove their classic cars.

Following recognition of new members and introductions, Scott Kalish asked for volunteers for 2027 leadership postions including running the car show, VP and treasurer. Clay Collins reviewed upcoming club events and Bill Bowers provided an update on our proposal to host the NAMGAR GT53 in 2028 in Katy, TX. Bill also noted the board voted to support the Brookwood Community for our 2026 charity.

For the meeting topic, Scott and Ron Redding teamed up to discuss modifications on our cars. Scott started by listing what are considered upgrades vs. modifications for originality that could affect judging at car shows. Ron followed by discussing valuable upgrades to make cars safer and more reliable including disc brakes, alternator conversions, radial tires, polyurethane suspension bushings, oil coolers, etc. Ron also discussed the potential of saving money by purchasing classic car insurance and how to obtain classic license plates for the year of your vehicle.

Thanks to all who attended to support the club!

Bring A Trailer Meet-Up

Sat, 21 Mar 2026 19:10:00 GMT

The HMGCC was well represented at the March 21 Bring A Trailer Meet-Up. I saw Jon Crocker, David Fowler, Rich Colwell and Clay Ownby. BAT gave out misc. sundries and served a generous continental breakfast. The showroom featured several pristene high-end cars for sale. Behind the showroom visitors could get a glimpse of customer cars in storage with Porsche 911's very well represented.

Summer is almost upon us so get out and drive those MG's while there's still time!

Clay Collins, Rich Colwell and David Fowler in the show room

David Fowler's Mini-Cooper

Jon Crocker's MGA

Clay Ownby's MGA

March 14 HMGCC-TTR Autocross

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 21:56:42 GMT

Once again the Texas Triumph Registry bested our MG's in Saturday's autocross event. Congrats to our brave rubber-bumper MG drivers Rich Colwell, Bill Bowers, Mike Craven, Sergio Sabido, Jay Schwartz, Mike Menard, Peter Maxwell and Mike Woodward for their valiant efforts. Hope to see some MGA's and chrome bumper MGB's next time.

Here are the official times from the event:

Mike Craven checking our Rich's donor car.

HMGCC March Meeting

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 15:36:20 GMT

Our March meeting was held on Saturday, March 7 at Spring Creek BBQ in Cypress. Scott led a round table story-telling session where owners talked about breakdowns and what tool or spare part was needed to get them going again.

After hearing the meeting ideas and reviewing other sources, Scott developed a list of possible spare parts and tools that could come in handy on a road trip:

Parts:

Various Fuses as needed
Various Bulbs: panel, turn, brake and flasher
Points, Condenser, Rotor and Distributor Cap (or Replacement Electrical Unit)Coil
Wire 10/12/14 ga.
Assorted wire connectors (Male, Female, Insulated, etc.)
Hose clamps 3" diameter to smaller
Spark plug top (screw on) or Spark plug wires
Generator brush set
Fuel Pump
Small Fuel Bottle (Aluminum)
Socket set, Spanners & Adjustable Wrenches
Booster Cables or Lithium Battery Jump Starter
Ground Sheet or Blanket
Gloves
Tire Pressure Gauge
Length of 1/4", 5/16” and 3/8" rubber hose
Radiator hose and clamps
Spark plugs
Oil for carb damper (usually 1 ml. needed & can store in 3 ml. syringe for easy use)
Minimum 1 Quart Motor Oil
Clutch – Brake Fluid
Fan Belt
Various assorted sizes of screws, nuts, washers and bolts
Tire Plug Kit
Spare Relay

Hand Tools & Emergency Supplies:

AAA Card
Small Analog Voltage Meter or Test Light
Pliers: Needle, Regular & Large Locking
Wire Crimper
Spark Plug Socket or Wrench
Spark Plug Gauge
Emory Cloth or Sandpaper
Brake Adj. tool (1/4" square)
Assorted sizes of Straight & Phillips head Screwdrivers
Small Hammer
Funnel and Paper Towels in Ziplock Bag (for adding oil)
Rag or Paper Towels
Flashlight
Magnetic Pickup
Repair – Shop Manuals & Schematics (or digital version on your phone)
Space blanket
Scissors Jack
Duct tape, Electrical tape
Leatherman (Multipurpose Tool with Knife and Pliers)
Spare Tire and/or 12V air compressor (or can of fix-a-flat) and/or Tire Plugging Tool
Lug wrench or Spinner Wrench
Boot Opening Tool (MGB)
Fire Extinguisher
Road Flares and Safety – Warning Markers
Water
Hand Cleaner/Soap (for cleanup and soap for finding leaks)
First Aid Kit
Cash

If you have an MGA or MGB and have converted to a single 12v battery (Group 26R usually fits in the left side battery compartment), then installing a plastic bin liner in the right side can serve as a very useful compartment for spare parts or tools.

HMGCC February Pop-Up Lunch

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 17:20:23 GMT

About 15 Club members showed up and enjoyed a leisurely patio lunch at Watson's House of Ales, on a pleasant Winter Thursday. These simple gatherings provide midweek enjoyment and easy mutual support for LBC enthusiasts. A number of MG's (and at least one Mini) were scattered about. Good food and libations were just right. No annoying calls were incoming at the British phone booth.

Well done Events Chairman.

British Car Lap around MSR Racetrack in Angleton - Feb. 28th

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 16:00:57 GMT

LOCAL EVENTS - 28 FEBRUARY 2026:

Fellow HMGCC members,

Thanks to sterling efforts by Dusty (who will be racing his Triumph there - come support him) as he has secured:

Clearance from the event organizers for our club members to drive (y)our own British classic on a lunch time parade lap around the MSR race track in Angleton on Saturday February 28th. (Address: 1 Performance Dr, Angleton, TX 77515. - 35 minutes south of Downtown Houston on Highway 288). There is a suggested donation of $20 per car to “Hands on Driving Academy” which creates racing opportunities for handicap veterans.
In addition, Go-Kart racing: will also be available on the karting track for $20 per race; participants must be aged 13+ (physically, not mentally - so most members, myself included, should scrape by that age bar?). Loaner helmets are provided. Note these karts run 50 mph – they’re not toys!

If you wish to participate in either or both driving events - i.e. (1) parade lap and/or (2) go-kart racing - please contact Dusty with your information so that he can get you signed up. He can also advise whether there is an assigned / available parking area there, if any, for us to congregate.

Please do remember that Dusty is prepping to race his car there all that weekend, so please don’t wait until the last minute to inundate him with your sign-ups. His contact info:

To register, contact: nicholsondustin@yahoo.com and cell if needed: 281-871-9623

Group meeting/departure point?

John and Sam in TTR have kindly arranged for the TTR club’s regular Saturday breakfast venue for that week to be on that side of town at the Busy Bee Café at 4009 West Broadway Street, Pearland TX 77581. (They usually meet at 7:30; order and eat at 8:00.)

Although there is no pre-organized group drive to MSR scheduled, (some) attendees may wish to convoy there from that breakfast location and its associated social opportunity?

Safety Fast

David

David J. Fowler

Membership Director - HMGCC

VP Local Events - TTR

Mobile: 713-412-0661

MGB Rear Brake Setup

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 17:46:16 GMT

I recently replaced my rear brakes after a leaking rear hub seal contaminated the brake shoe linings. I went through a number of online resources including John Twist videos to come up with what I think is the correct spring configuration and thought this photo might be helpful to anyone doing a brake job. Specifically, I believe the left "tail" of the lower internal spring fits under the rear parking brake as shown in the photo. Don't assume the last person who worked on your brakes assembled everything correctly.

My MG is a '63 with the banjo rear axle (1962-1967), but the rear brake setup is the same for all MGB's with the possible exception of the outer lower spring. Last year it was sold by Moss for only the banjo rear axles, but now I see it's no longer listed so I'm assuming they decided it must not be needed or perhaps they wanted to simplify and offer the same parts configuration for all MGB's. The part (17H 8737) is however shown in the official MGB parts manual.

HMGCC February Meeting

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 16:43:34 GMT

Our club's February meeting was held on 2/7 at Lyndon's Pit BBQ.

Our club president, Scott Kalish, led a fun game to identify a list of somewhat obscure British cars. Contestants were awarded points for correct make, model and year. The maximum total of correct points was 188. Only 3 club members scored above 50 points. Congratulations to David Fowler for a winning score of 79 points.

There was some discussions on:

The board looking into issuing a monthly emailed newsletter
A change of venue for the next MG-Triumph club autocross
Future club meeting locations. Lyndon's was noted as one of the few venues that does not charge for the room

Thanks to all who were able to attend.

Late 90's HMGCC Meeting YouTube Video Featuring a VERY Special Guest Speaker

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 17:56:52 GMT

This link is to a rather long YouTube video that was taken in the late 90's at a monthly club meeting when Dwight Dawson was President. It features a very special guest speaker and might be of interest to newer members.

https://youtu.be/fB4TpxryQDw?si=bKy3m-7VwACiqxu

Many Thanks to Dwight for providing this!

Abingdon Factory Demolition Article

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 22:42:43 GMT

Here's an interesting article from the 1998 ROARS suggested by Dwight Dawson. Sadly, the MG factory closed on October 24, 1980 with the production of the last roadster number 523001 two days earlier. I didn't realize the factory wasn't actually demolished until 1997. I remember there was a time you could purchase bricks from the factory from Moss Motors.

The second article shows a wrecked MGF after a chap when berserk pushed it off a cliff with a tractor.

Thanks Dwight!

1998 Roars Article on MG Factory.PDF

MG Driver Article on Rob Ficolara's MG Heater Kits

Sat, 10 Jan 2026 21:07:10 GMT

Those of you who are members of NAMGBR will have received the January/February 2026 issue of "The MG Driver", the Tech Issue, which contained an article written by HMGCC member Scott Hardy. The article discusses problems with MGA/MGB heater valves, and presents an alternative heater valve kit manufactured and sold by your humble HMGCC webmaster, Rob Ficolara. The article is reproduced below for the edification of those who either did not see the article or are not NAMGBR members...

New Heater Valve Kit for MGA/MGB That Solves OEM Deficiencies Now Available

While driving in an autocross last fall, the distributor in my 1972 MGB was doused by an unwelcome shower of coolant from a failed heater valve diaphragm. And judging from the high volume of online posts concerning failed heater valves, what happened to me is not an unusual occurrence. Thanks to the support of Houston MG Car Club members who came up with a blanking plate on site, I was able to complete the three-hour drive home. During that journey, I resolved to identify a more effective solution for controlling the heater.

The deficiencies of the available OEM style heater valve in MGAs and MGBs are well documented. If you have one, you already know. To summarize:

When the diaphragm in the valve fails, the valve leaks directly onto the distributor.
The valve design does not allow adequate coolant flow for optimum heat output.
The valve resists opening and closing, making it difficult to operate with the cable controls.
It is hard to either completely open or completely shut the valve, which results in heat being released when you don’t want it.
The lifespan of the available replacement valves is not equal to the OEM valves. Mine failed after six years of use and I have heard of failures in much less time.
The OEM design does not allow a socket wrench to fit onto the bolt heads, making it difficult to remove or install the valve, particularly the lower bolt.
Failure of the valve has resulted in catastrophic engine failures due to overheating because the temperature gauge will not register when there is no coolant.

Numerous solutions to this issue have been shared on platforms like MG Experience, so I didn't have to start my search for a better valve from scratch. I resolved to use an automotive ball valve with the same push to open/pull to close action as the original valve, and I experimented with creating bases from failed heater valves. However, I found the castings to be poor quality, and the remaining base did not provide enough material to tap a large enough fitting to increase the coolant flow, so I needed a better answer. I designed a couple of trial heater valve bases that Texas MG guru Wayne Kube machined into reality.

Fortunately, I found out that fellow HMGCC member Rob Ficolara was pursuing the same goal of creating a better heater valve design, and he had the great idea of producing an easy to install kit for MGA and MGB owners. We tossed around some thoughts for procuring the valves and fittings, and he had the equipment to turn my heater base designs into beautiful, 6061 aluminum alloy pieces that allow more than twice the coolant flow of the original design. We also fixed the installation problem by using socket head screws for attachment to the block.

I installed a prototype design on my car, and the results were amazing. Installation was a breeze. I was able to use the original heater cable with a small modification. The valve was easy to move from completely shut to wide open and back again. The increased flow allowed the heater to put out more heat for the cold days (rare as they are here in TX!). It even looks proper. And that ball valve will never leak onto my distributor!

Rob has started producing the kit, which provides everything you need to replace the heater valve assembly from the engine block to the heater inlet. Rob is a fellow MG owner who takes pride in his work, and his kit provides a well-designed answer to all the problems created by the OEM design and currently available replacement parts.

The heater valve kit, which contains complete instructions, a pre-assembled valve assembly, and all mounting/hoses/clamps/gasket hardware, is available to MGA and MGB owners for $US 87.50 plus shipping. The ordering details can be found on his website, www.BritCarCraft.com. Don’t wait until your valve fails (again). Look into this upgrade today!

What’s in the box. (Not pictured are complete, easy to follow instructions).

Detailed view of the preassembled valve, fitting and base supplied with the kit.

The valve installed.

January meeting opportunity...

Sat, 27 Dec 2025 18:40:33 GMT

The club received an email and I know our members will rise to the opportunity! If you have an MGA or MGB and would be willing to show your car to a Veteran with cancer, be sure to participate in the January club meeting...

Hello:

I have [an uncle] who is a Viet Nam Veteran who has been fighting cancer for 3 years and is running out of options and time. One of his great loves was his MG’s. He had an MGA and a chrome bumper MGB, (as best as I can remember). He lives close to your meeting location Swanny’s Grill - about a mile away. I have a question and possibly a favor. If he and his son came by during the meeting could one of you show him your cars, and possibly give him a ride around the block.

Thank you!

NAMGBR MG International 2026

Sat, 13 Dec 2025 16:39:57 GMT

2025 HMGCC Christmas Party

Sat, 13 Dec 2025 16:17:52 GMT

This year’s Christmas party was held on Saturday, December 6 at Maggiano's Little Italy in the Galleria area. It was well attended with approximately 70 attendees. Everyone seemed to enjoy the family style Italian dishes and a show of hands voted in favor for a Maggiano's repeat for 2026. A shout out to Candy Dawson for organizing a successful 2025 Christmas party.

At the conclusion of the lunch, our annual club awards were given out and our officers for 2026 were announced. Thanks to Rich Colwell and Lee Drum for serving as the MC's of the event and congratulations to the well-deserving award recipients:

Houston MG Club 2025 Awards

500 Mile Dash Plaques- Traveling Award for driving at least 500 miles to club sponsored events

Bill Bowers

Scott Hardy

Rich Colwell

Rob Ficalora

Scott Kalish

Lee Drum

Pete Sandy

Jay Schwartz

David Griffith

Mike Woodward

Joe Schrodi

Moose Stovall

Backseat Driver Award - Traveling Award: Angie Bard

Driver Award - Traveling Award for most miles driven to club sponsored events:

Bill and Sally Bowers – drove 1553 miles to club events

Safety Fast Driver Award - Traveling Award for most club-sponsored events attended:

Lee Drum – attended 13 events

Kimber Spirit Award: Lee Drum

Board of Directors Award: Rob Ficalora

Presidential Recognition Award: Rich Colwell

Alan Rayne Memorial/Broken Crankshaft - Traveling Award: Ken Evesson

President’s Award:

Greg Fleischer

Joe Schrodi

Ralph Diebert Award: Arnel Brown

Houston MG Club 2026/2027 Officers and Board Members:

2026 Officers

· President: Scott Kalish

· Vice President: Vernon Jones

· 2026 Treasurer: Greg Fleisher

· 2026 Secretary: Mike Craven

Board of Directors: New Board Members for 2026-2027

· John Bowyer

· Art Colwell

· Byron Nash - 2025 (Nov/Dec) & 2026 Board Member seat, previously held by Steve Session

Board of Directors: Returning Board Members for Their Second and Final Year

· Jim Goldmeyer

· Bill Bowers

In addition to the voted positions, the following are appointed positions for 2026

· Events Coordinator - Clay Ownby (new for 2026)

· Membership Chair - David Fowler (new for 2026)

· Roars Editor - Clay Collins (new for 2026)

· Webmaster - Rob Ficalora (continuing)

· Facebook Admin - Angie Bard (continuing)

Congratulations to the new officers and board members and many thanks to the outgoing officers and members – your efforts this year were much appreciated!

Autorama 2025

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 15:32:34 GMT

Once again, the George R. Brown Convention Center opened its doors to hundreds of motor vehicles for the annual Houston AutoRama. The GRB remains a perfect venue: spacious, well‑lit, and comfortably indoors during our Houston “winter.” Over four relaxed days, visitors enjoyed casual conversations, admired the variety of cars, and lingered at our shared display with the Texas Triumph Register.

This year’s lineup featured six Triumphs and five Houston MG Car Club entries. Our members and their cars included:

Jon Crocker – 1955 Morris Minor, 2nd Place, Restored 1947–57 Class
Dwight Dawson – 1973 MGB, Participation Award
Ray Holtzapple – 1975 MGB GT, 1st Place, Foreign Sports Cars, Late
Derek Shelton – 1966 MGB, 1st Place, Foreign Sports Cars, Early
Jonathan Zier – 1958 MGA, Participation Award
Jason Curtis made a determined effort to join with his 1966 MGB, but ignition troubles left him stranded on the freeway and ultimately towed home after a long wait. As every MG driver knows: if you drive them, they will test you. Well done Jason, for the spirit of participation!

Thanks to the Club’s free $30 tickets, many members visited the show, signed in at our display, and enjoyed the sights.

Special recognition goes to Mike Woodward, who coordinated the event with his usual dedication. Mike arranged the cars, transported sign stands, banners, posts, chains, and managed the registration table. With Autorama requiring cars to remain from Wednesday through Sunday—right across the busy Thanksgiving weekend—the logistics are demanding. Thanks to Mike’s leadership and the contributions of many members, everything came together seamlessly.

By showing up year after year, we not only celebrate our MG sports cars but also strengthen the presence of the Houston MG Car Club in the wider community. Let’s carry that momentum forward—please consider joining us for the 2026 AutoRama.

Let's go to Shiner

Sun, 23 Nov 2025 23:35:45 GMT

Shiner, Texas was the destination recently for the HMGCC. Jim and Dody Goldmeyer were the event coordinators and provided a very fun day for us, just a few hours from home. For those who have not traveled to Shiner for some time, recent improvements on the brewery site are impressive, and include a fancy new restaurant. Not only is the beer still flowing, they also serve up very worthy barbecue beef entrees and all the trimmings at the separate walkup counter. These servings can be comfortably consumed, as many of us did, in the expansive courtyard with picnic tables and umbrellas; in the covered dining area, a live folk singer entertained. And, surprisingly, a new Distillery is now in place for various liquors and has its own private bar.

We had 10 cars from Houston and met 13 more from clubs that are west of us. The weather was grand and we were all topless except, of course, Bill Bower in his GT. Greg Fleischer brought newly- retired Skip Robbins as Navigator. He really enjoyed the outing and said this was the first time in a decade that he traveled the country in the marque (MG!) that he had been working on all his life.

The road trip was uneventful except for one unexpected 360 degree turn. (What else would you expect from the leader, Goldmeyer.) Thanks go to Scott and Trish Hardy for their efforts in coordinating participants from Austin, San Antonio and Dripping Springs. One of them asked if we will do Shiner again next year...and Jim said “we will go every year as long as I am able to drive!!”

October Autocross

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 02:10:18 GMT

On Saturday October 18 we enjoyed the Fall Autocross versus our friends in the Texas Triumph Register. This time, it was not a favorable competition for the MG's. Perhaps it was the fact that the TTR turned out twice as many competitors. Or, just check the average completion time, on the attached file, of TTR's Dusty Nicholson in his 1971 Spitfire. He was smokin'.

Fortunately, having a blast on the track is not a problem for anyone. Next time we will want to improve our number of racers; maybe that will work for us.

Autocross October, 2025, Police Academy Time Sheet - Final (1).pdf

Driver Award Results ~ 2025

Fri, 24 Oct 2025 02:06:05 GMT

Here are the final 2025 reports on the MG Driver Award and the MG Safety Fast Driver Award. The first award is to encourage the driving of our MGs by recognizing the member who drove their MG the MOST MILES to attend club-sanctioned events. The second award is also to encourage the driving of our MG's by recognizing the member who drove their MG to the MOST CLUB-SANCTIONED EVENTS.

We can all tip our hats to Member Greg Fleischer for his efforts over the years in tallying the data from the event sign-in sheets and creating these reports. Greg has concluded his time in doing this and the officers of the Club will certainly appreciate another member stepping forward to take over this task in support of these annual Awards.

Detailed description of the award eligibility can be seen on our website under the ABOUT tab.

MG Safety Fast Driver Award 2025.pdf

MG Driver Award 2025.pdf

35th Annual Car Show

Fri, 17 Oct 2025 00:16:20 GMT

35th All British Car Day: A Celebration of Heritage and Heart

On October 4th, under warm Texas skies, at Rudy’s Country Store and Bar-B-Q, the Houston MG Car Club welcomed enthusiasts and admirers alike to the 35th All British Car Day — a spirited gathering of chrome, craftsmanship, and community.

75 cars registered, with about 70 making it to the show field. A few faced last-minute mechanical woes, but two determined participants had their cars towed in AND out, embodying the true spirit of MG grit and British motoring devotion. This event was again so ably directed by Member Lee Drum.

Among the highlights:

• A fully restored pedal car drew smiles from all generations.

• Six Premier Class entries showcased the finest restorations and rarest models.

• A genuine London double-decker bus — a 1964 AEC Routemaster — stood tall among the crowd, reminding us that sometimes you have to travel to Tomball, Texas to see a piece of London history.

First Place Winners by Class

• MGTC: Raymond Barth, 1948

• MGTD: Chuck Quinn, 1952

• MGA: David Lawrence, 1959 Twin Cam

• MGB Chrome Bumper: Ron Redding, 1964

• MGB Rubber Bumper: Bob Schroeder, 1976

• Austin Healey Sprite: Pete Sandy, 1959 Bugeye

• Austin Healey 3000: Richard Hockert, 1966

• British Luxury: John Mottershaw, 1959 Rolls Royce Silver Cloud

• British Modified: Rob Ficalora, 1976 MGB V8

• British Special Interest: Sandy Griffith, 1965 Griffith — daughter of the marque’s founder

• British Vintage: Paul Brownell, 1951 Allard J2

• Jaguar E-Type: James McWhinnie, 1967 XKE

• Jaguar 1970 & Later: Mike Woodward, 1996 Vanden Plas

• Land Rover: Robert Wright, 1959 Series II

• Mini (Pre-2020): Jim Goldmeyer, 2007

• Mini (2020 & Later): Jim Goldmeyer, 2024

• Morgan: Greg Chronowski, 1965 Morgan +4

• Sunbeam: Hunter Larson, 1967 Tiger

• Triumph TR2 & TR3: Melisa Farrell, 1962 TR3

• Triumph TR4 & TR250: Steve Voss, 1965 TR4

• Triumph TR6: Neville Skead, 1976

• Triumph Spitfire & GT6: Jon Barrett, 1963 Triumph Sport 6

Special Honors

• People’s Choice Award: Arnel Brown, 1953 MGTD

• Best in Show: Arnel Brown, 1953 MGTD

The ABCD event raised roughly $3,000, with half of the silent auction proceeds of $550, being donated to a chosen charity — a testament to the generosity woven into our community’s fabric.

Thank you to all who participated, volunteered, and attended. The spirit of British motoring is alive and well — and it roared with pride in October.

The Woodlands Art League had 11 artists scattered about the show grounds. A few of the awarded paintings are in photos below.

Tech Session for $200 MGB

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 16:41:00 GMT

Tech Session: Grease, Gaskets & Good Times

September 27

It was a classic Saturday morning for the Houston MG Car Club—sunshine, snacks, and a stubborn British car. Members gathered at Rich Colwell’s house to tinker with a 1980 MGB and maybe learn a thing or two about its electrical system. Rich, fresh off a flight from India and battling jet lag, a head cold, and a gut parasite, was mostly useful for knowing where the tools were. Fortunately, the club runs on teamwork—and snacks.

Fuel Fiasco: The MGB That Wouldn’t

The car, which had run fine before Rich’s trip, refused to start. Enter Dave Griffith, who diagnosed a fuel delivery issue. The culprit: loss of prime. Previous to Rich's trip a small leak between the gas tank and sending unit was . After installing a new gasket, the system had gone airbound. Dave’s solution? Old-school ingenuity: he pressurized the tank by blowing into the filler neck. Yes, with his mouth. It worked. Don’t try this at home. The tank started leaking again, despite the new gasket.

Grease Is the Word

Next up: front-end lubrication. The kingpins and steering rack got a fresh dose of grease, transforming the handling from “tractor” to “almost power steering.” Plans to torch the kingpins were shelved when a grease gun did the trick. Sometimes, simple wins.

Wiring Woes and Electrical Enlightenment

With the car running, attention turned to the wiring. Rob Ficalora led a deep dive into BMC’s color-coded chaos. Continuity tests, connector replacements, and oxide removal brought the brake lights, indicators, and reverse lamps back to life. The tachometer, long dormant, sprang into action after a faulty relay was swapped out. Victory!

Tank Trouble: The Sequel

Just when things were looking up, the gas tank struck again. Bill Sysman spotted the real leak—not the gasket, but both the tank itself and the sending unit. The spot-welded collar that accepts the sending unit twist fastener was seeping from underneath, and the PTFE joint for the sending unit wire was also compromised. Rich plans to solder the collar and vacuum-seal the joint this weekend. Fingers crossed.

Snacks, Sips, and Solidarity

Kathy Colwell kept morale high with fresh-baked savory treats, soft drinks, and beer. As always, the real joy was in the camaraderie—turning wrenches, swapping stories, and embracing the eternal truth of British motoring: if it’s not leaking, it’s empty.

~ Rich Colwell

Keels and Wheels Founder

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 21:47:12 GMT

Joe Schrodi alerted us to this noteworthy news:

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19j5fusMmH/

Silent Auction at ABC Show

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 16:09:43 GMT

The Silent Auction at our Oct. 4 Car Show will include a good number of quality items. Long-time members Wayne and Isabelle Hardy donated the list you see below. So bring your checkbook and bid early and often.

MG T Register GOF

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 21:46:40 GMT

Our member, Clay Ownby, attended the 111th GOF event of the NEW ENGLAND MG T REGISTER in Danbury, Connecticut. Click this link to see his report on it all.

NEMGTR GOF 111.pdf

from Jackie Session

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 02:27:34 GMT

PRESIDENT'S SOCIAL 2025

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 21:11:52 GMT

From the President’s Octagonal office:

It was a sweltering day for the Houston MG Car Club President's Social. The good part is that it didn’t rain. 54+ members of our club made it out to Richmond to talk cars, talk repairs, talk parts, and get to know each other a little better.

Kathy Colwell was at the heart of the operation, having coordinated the catering and preparing the house. A special thanks to those who helped set things up.

Ron Redding was much relieved, as I learned from our July meeting, he only eats BBQ. We had plenty of BBQ and many boxes of the leftovers when home. While most club members drove their climate-controlled modern cars, there were a few Drivers who tolerated the heat. Joe Bolduc show up with a trailered 1957 MGA that he just purchased that morning! While I thought it was a coupe, it turns out to be a roadster with one of those fabled removable hardtops. Of course, there were also a few MGBs in the car park.

Mike Menard was the club masochist that day, driving his MGB out, and working on his transmission while the car was on my lift. We could hear him conversing with God, looking for a lost bolt, and we also heard him praying that the patron saint of cross-threaded bolts was not present. He drove away exhausted, very dehydrated, but successful in his repair.

It was a joy to have so many club members at our house, some who I have not had the pleasure of getting to know yet. It was a good opportunity to be social, and I think that we accomplished that goal.

I am also happy to report that my $200 1980 MGB is happily on the road. Only a day after our party, but who is counting? She had a couple of bugs, which were worked out after work today. Brakes are much tighter, she idles softly at 800 rpm, and the throttle return springs are now doing their job. I find that the speedometer doesn’t work, and I will have to start thinking about that soon.

I am thankful to the leadership of our car club over the past decade. They revitalized our club, bringing in new members, each with something to bring, something to talk about, and something to drive. It was Kathy’s and my pleasure to have hosted such a splendid event. Thank you for coming.

I am out of the country for 30 days as of next Saturday, and thus will not be attending our September meeting. Vice President, Mr. Scott Kalish, will run that meeting. There is some important business to conduct. The club requires that 3 members step forth, volunteering to be part of a nominating committee for next year's officers. Please think this over, and be part of that committee, and help identify Members who will move our club forward.

Rich Colwell

President, Houston MG Car Club

President's Social

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 00:16:27 GMT

President Rich Colwell is hosting the annual President's Social, at his home on Saturday, August 30. There will be an overflow crowd and Rich has a Request: bring a dessert to share "just a little" and your chairs. You can expect some pretty good BBQ.

The image is what AI thinks Rich must look like (wrong) but they got the MG pretty close.

Driver Award Standings

Sat, 16 Aug 2025 18:59:43 GMT

Safety Fast Award Standings

Sat, 16 Aug 2025 18:27:31 GMT

Kerr County Losses

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 16:34:43 GMT

Fellow British Car Enthusiasts,

As you are aware, Kerr County, Texas, suffered a devastating flash flood earlier this month, resulting in the tragic loss of over 107 lives—27 of them young children and teens. Our hearts ache for their families and loved ones.

In moments like these, prayers alone can feel insufficient. In response, the Houston MG Car Club Board of Directors has voted to donate $500 to the Kerr County Relief Fund. This locally administered fund ensures that every dollar reaches those who need it most, without dilution or delay.

We’ve also learned that the Texas MG Register is making a similar contribution. It’s a quiet testament to the kind heartedness of British car enthusiasts—people who care deeply and act with empathy in times of crisis.

Personally, my wife Kathy and I felt moved to offer additional support. We’ll be contributing another $100, which we’d like to include in the club’s donation. If you’re likewise inclined to help, we invite you to do so.

Our Treasurer, Greg Fleischer, will be present at our August 2nd meeting. Donations of any amount—cash, check, or other—can be brought directly to the meeting, where Greg will include them in our collective gift from the Houston MG Car Club.

Thank you for showing the spirit of generosity and neighborly care that defines our community.

Warm regards, Rich Colwell President, HMGCC (2025)

In Memorium

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 00:34:44 GMT

Honoring Two Beloved Members of Our HMGCC Family

The HMGCC community came together with heavy hearts yet full appreciation to celebrate the lives of two cherished members—Steve Session and Tom Sturm—whose spirit and friendship left an enduring mark on our club.

️ Celebrating the Life of Steve Session On July 21, a moving Celebration of Life was held in Katy to honor Steve Session, whose vibrant enthusiasm and joy were constants alongside his navigator, Jackie. They brought laughter, warmth, and camaraderie to every club event. The room overflowed with love as nearly 200 friends and family gathered to pay their respects, including fourteen HMGCC members, accompanied by British autos gracing the car park—a fitting tribute to Steve’s devotion to his red MGB. Mike Woodward spoke on behalf of our club, beautifully capturing how Steve fully embodied our “Marque of Friendship.” In true Steve fashion, several members arrived early for a spontaneous “Steve Session Pop-Up Breakfast,” reflecting the easy joy and connection he inspired.

Remembering Tom Sturm On July 23 in Brenham, Candy and I joined a heartfelt gathering of family, friends, and fellow “car guys” to honor Tom Sturm, former HMGCC President (2000), who recently passed after a long illness. Tom was the quintessential enthusiast—a gentleman whose love of cars and community was unmistakable. First-place awards, including three from HMGCC shows, stood as quiet witnesses to his passion and dedication. Like Steve, Tom lived the Marque of Friendship to its fullest.

A Gentle Reminder Enjoy the company of fellow club members in the moment. These bonds—made under bonnets and beside roadways—are treasures we carry forward.

Rest in peace, Steve and Tom. You will be missed but never forgotten.

SAFETY FAST DRIVER AWARD 2025

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 02:28:42 GMT

Name Events Number

1 Dawson/1973 MGB 6) 7) 8) 9) 15) 16) 18) 19) 21) 9

2 Woodward/1980 MGB LE 3) 7) 8) 9) 11) 15) 21). 7

3 Colwell/1959 MGA 4) 9) 11) 15) 17) 19) 20). 7

4 Sandy/1962 MGA 3) 5) 7) 9) 15) 20). 6

5 Drum/1976 MGB 3) 6) 8) 9) 13) 14) 20) 6

6 Bowers/1974 MGB GT 6) 7) 9) 14) 17) 19) 6

7 Fleischer/1971 MGB 7) 8) 9) 14) 16) 19) 6

8 Kalish/1961 MGA 7) 9) 11) 13) 16) 19) 6

9 Jones/1965 MGB 1) 3) 7) 11) 13) 5

10 Evesson/1960 MGA 3) 5) 9) 11) 4

11 Hardy/1972 MGB 2) 3) 7) 17) 4

12 Ficalora/1976 MGB 3) 6) 9) 14) 16) 4

13 Menard/1967 MGB GT 3) 11) 21) 3

14 Cordes/1966 MGB 7) 9) 19) 3

15 Chalker/1959 MGA 7) 13) 16) 3

16 Session/1964 MGB 5) 6) 2

17 Kidd/1973 MGB 3) 7) 2

18 Schwartz/1980 MGB 3) 11) 2

19 Early/1962 MGA 7) 9) 2

20 Sumrall/1972 MGB 1) 13) 2

21 Prissovsky/1970 MGB 7) 13) 2

22 Kramer/1960 MGA 1) 16) 2

23 Crocker/1961 MGA 8) 21) 2

24 Griffith/1948 MG TC 1952 MG TD 15) 17) 2

25 Carpenter/1936 MG TA 17) 21) 2

26 Geyser/1952 MG TD 4) 1

27 Galt/1962 MGA 1) 1

28 Horn/1971 MGB 3) 1

29 Guthrie/1977 MGB 3) 1

30 Smith/1969 MGC GT 4) 1

31 Lawrence/1969 MGC 6) 1

32 Bernstein/1952 MG TD 7) 1

33 Curtiss/1966 MGB 8) 1

34 Chase/1948 MG TC 7) 1

35 Schiller/1972 MGB 7) 1

36 Pickle/MGB 11) 1

37 Wright/1971 MGB GT 11) 1

38 Shaw/1972 MGB 11) 1

39 McEwan/1978 MGB 11) 1

40 Nelson/1978 MGB 11) 1

41 Humphreys/1971 MGB 14) 1

42 Stovall/1958 MGA 17) 1

43 Poffenbarger/1966 MGB GT 17) 1

44 McQuaid/1973 MGB GT 17) 1

45 Bowyer/1949 MG TC 12) 1

46 Buerger/1980 MGB 18) 1

47 Uriccho/1979 MGB 16) 1

48 Gentry/1960 MGA 18) 1

49 Shouse/1979 MGB 20) 1

50 Sysman/1971 MGB 20) 1

51 Collins/1963 MGB 21) 1

52 Redding/1958 MG Magnette/1964 MGB 7) 9) 2

1) 2) 6) 7) 19) 20) 6

53 Schrodi/1976 MGB 54 Sykes/1974 MGB GT

Events to Date 05/25

1) Nov Meeting 2) GOF 3) Autocross 4) Autorama 5) Xmas Party 6) Jan Monthly Meeting 7) Feb Monthy Meeting

8) Feb Pop Up Lunch 9) Mar Monthly Meeting 10) March Qtr Breakfast 11) MG/TTR Autocross 12) Apr Monthly Meeting

13) Tech Session 14) Backroad Drive 15) MSR Track Racing 16) May Monthly Meeting 17) Spring GOF

18) Pop Up Lunch-Tomball

HMGCC Driver Mileage Award 2025

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 02:14:38 GMT

Name Events TOTAL MILES

1 Bowers/1974 MGB GT 6) 7) 9) 14) 17) 19) 1,313

2 Hardy/1972 MGB 2) 3) 7) 17) 1,175

3 Colwell/1959 MGA 4) 9) 11) 15) 17) 19) 20) 1,001

4 Drum/1976 MGB 3) 6) 8) 9) 13) 14) 20) 624

5 Griffith/1948 MG TC 1952 MG TD 15) 17) 594

6 Poffenbarger/1966 MGB GT 17) 570

7 Sandy/1962 MGA 3) 5) 7) 9) 15) 20) 528

8 Kalish/1961 MGA 7) 9) 11) 13) 16) 19) 508

9 Ficalora/1976 MGB 3) 6) 9) 14) 16) 492

10 Stovall/1958 MGA 17) 471

11 Schwartz/1980 MGB 3) 11) 400

12 Fleischer/1971 MGB 7) 8) 9) 14) 16) 19) 389

13 Woodward/1980 MGB LE 3) 7) 8) 9) 11) 15) 21) 377

14 Dawson/1973 MGB 6) 7) 8) 9) 15) 16) 18) 19) 21) 330

15 Evesson/1960 MGA 3) 5) 9) 11) 265

16 Jones/1965 MGB 1) 3) 7) 11) 13) 207

17 Cordes/1966 MGB 7) 9) 19) 206

18 Galt/1962 MGA 1) 181

19 Session/1964 MGB 5) 6) 161

20 Humphreys/1971 MGB 14) 140

21 Chalker/1959 MGA/MGB 7) 13) 16) 121

22 Geyser/1952 MG TD 4) 100

23 Kidd/1973 MGB 3) 7) 89

24 Sumrall/1972 MGB 1) 13) 75

25 Menard/1967 MGB GT 3) 11) 21) 72

26 Early/1962 MGA 7) 9) 70

27 Pickle/MGB 11) 70

28 Wright/1971 MGB GT 11) 65

29 Horn/1971 MGB 3) 60

30 Shaw/1972 MGB 11) 60

31 McEwan/1978 MGB 11) 60

32 McQuaid/1973 MGB GT 17) 60

33 Shouse/1979 MGB 20) 60

34 Bernstein/1952 MG TD 7) 58

35 Crocker/1961 MGA 8) 21) 54

36 Carpenter/1936 MG TA 17) 21) 44

37 Curtiss/1966 MGB 8) 40

38 Prissovsky/1970 MGB 7) 13) 40

39 Uriccho/1979 MGB 16) 40

40 Gentry/1960 MGA 18) 28

41 Lawrence/1969 MGC 6) 26

42 Chase/1948 MG TC 7) 25

43 Sysman/1971 MGB 20) 22

44 Collins/1963 MGB 21) 20

45 Guthrie/1977 MGB 3) 15

46 Smith/1969 MGC GT 4) 15

47 Nelson/1978 MGB 11) 14

48 Schiller/1972 MGB 7) 12

49 Kramer/1960 MGA 1) 16) 8

50 Buerger/1980 MGB 18) 8

51 Bowyer/1949 MG TC 12) 5

52 Redding/1958 MG Magnette/1964 MGB 7) 9) 53 Schrodi/1976 MGB 54 Sykes/1974 MGB GT

1) 2) 6) 7) 19) 20) Events to Date 06/25

1) Nov Meeting 2) GOF 3) Autocross 4) Autorama 5) Xmas Party 6) Jan Monthly Meeting 7) Feb Monthly Meeting

8) Feb Pop UP Lunch 9) Mar Monthly Meeting 10) March Qtr Breakfast 11) MG/TTR Autocross 12) Apr Monthly Meeting

13) Tech Session 14) Backroad Drive 15) MSR Track Racing 16) May Monthly Meeting 17) Spring GOF

18) Pop Up Lunch-Tomball 19) June Monthly Meeting 20) Club Picnic 21) Qtr Breakfast

Steve Session

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 22:21:35 GMT

It is with profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of our cherished member and recent chairman, Steve Session. Steve left us at 7:15 PM yesterday evening.

Steve was a cornerstone of our club, dedicating himself wholeheartedly to our community and the passion we all share for MG cars. His leadership, warmth, and consistent positivity touched all who knew him. The outpouring of support from our club during Steve’s recent health challenges, as shared by his wife Jackie in her heartfelt message, reflects the deep bond he fostered within our community. Your generosity through the GoFundMe campaign and your unwavering support provided immense comfort to Steve and Jackie during an incredibly difficult time.

We join Jackie in expressing gratitude for the love and compassion you’ve shown, which exemplified the true spirit of our MG Car Club family. Steve’s legacy will live on in the connections he nurtured and the joy he brought to our gatherings.

Funeral services are planned for Monday, July 21st. We will share details as they become available. In the meantime, let us honor Steve’s memory by continuing to embody the community spirit he so deeply valued.

With heartfelt condolences,

The Houston MG Car Club

From the Sessions

Sun, 06 Jul 2025 13:08:19 GMT

One of our Members has been coping with a life-changing medical challenge. Steve Session and his wife Jackie are amazing in how they have responded. Steve was elected to our Board of Directors and was selected to be its Chairman. This recent note from Steve and Jackie speaks for itself:

Our Dearest Family and Friends

Your kindness, generosity, and unwavering support have lifted us in ways we will never, ever forget.

This GoFundMe campaign organized by the MG Car Club that you are supporting will provide a great level of financial relief and support. You’ve helped ease a tremendous burden, and in doing so, you’ve allowed us to focus more fully on healing, recovery, and just being together throughout Steve’s battle with brain cancer.

Our Facebook family and friends, and the MG Car Club Family, have always meant a great deal to Steve & me, and now we truly understand the deep strength of the bond we share. We are humbled, grateful, and deeply moved.

Please know that your kindness will forever be etched in our hearts. Thank you for showing us what community, love, and support really look like.

With love, and our deepest appreciation!

Thank you,
Steve & Jackie Session

A Car Show in Arkansas!

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 02:21:55 GMT

Here is an invitation of interest that was sent to President Rich Colwell:

My name is Tom Padgett and I am part of the British Iron of Northwest Arkansas British car club (https://britishironnwa.org/). We are having our annual car show that benefits ALS this September 18-20 in Fayetteville, AR. More details can be found here https://britishironnwa.org/brits-in-the-ozarks/. We will have great drives hosted by our members on Thursday and Friday that week as well as a cookout Friday and the show on Saturday with Andy Reid - columnist as a guest speaker.

As a fellow car enthusiast, I'd like to ask that you share this announcement (via website, meeting announcement, FB post, etc...), and the attached registration forms with your membership so they can consider attending it. Please let me know if you have any questions about this or need additional information.

Thanks so much for your support!

Best Regards,

Tom Padgett

Battle of the Brits

Thu, 08 May 2025 13:34:47 GMT

BATTLE OF THE BRITS Golf Tournament

On May 1 the annual Battle of the Brits charity golf tournament took place at Jersey Meadow Golf Course between the Houston MG Car Club and the Texas Triumph Register. The weather was perfect and a good time was had by all.

The event started with a “putting contest” using a unique putter constructed from car parts including a piston from aTR3 as the head. The shaft was actually a gear shift rod from a Morris. This contest was won by Sallie Rouse of TTR.

The “closest to the pin” contest was won by Andrew Fox of TTR.

Michael Cox, also of TTR, won the “longest drive.”

Three TTR teams competed against a single MG team led by team captain Vernon Jones. He also organized the event.

At the end of the day, the MG team completed play with a minus one score. The TTR Team #1 also finished with a minus one score… a look at the score cards quickly suggested that MG was winning. The TTR team #2 then came in with a par score still leaving the MG team in a winning position. Finally the #3 TTR team finished with a minus 2 score…to secure the win of the team event.

So, it was a clean sweep for TTR for the first time in the history of the event. (Fortunately, MG still offers the superior sports car.)

MGB ENGINE SWAP, AND MORE

Wed, 07 May 2025 02:30:17 GMT

Some will be inspired; some won't... Club member Mark Hammerbacher was intrigued enough that he sent this information to be posted thinking some of our members might be interested.

I (Rob Ficalora) know a lot about the car and I agree with Mark that it is worth sharing; in fact, a local friend of mine made the grille emblem for Jim (see if you notice it in the video). And, I'm not sure what's more impressive, the work Jim did on this car (I'll not be a spoiler; you have to watch the video to see) -- or the fact that this was, I believe, his 3rd or 4th iteration of the car -- with the 1st being featured in the 1985 Hot Rod Magazine Engine Swapping Guide!

Even if you're not into engine swaps, the engineering & problem solving involved has to be admired!

~ ROB FICALORA

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9RMv8SzcHO4

MGB Front Springs

Thu, 01 May 2025 21:20:09 GMT

This Link will provide a very useful article, by Simon Austin, on the removal and replacement of the front springs on the MGB.

MGB Front Coil Springs Removal and Replacement (PDF).pdf

Back Roads 100 - April 19

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 19:26:54 GMT

It was a beautiful Saturday for a drive -- a bit overcast which kept the heat at bay, but no real threat of rain. That made for a phenomenal drive through some great roads in the area. We had 14 participants with nine club members (some with spouses) in eight cars including 5 MG's, a '68 Volvo, and a 2015 Bentley GT3-R. We gathered in Conroe at about 10am for the roughly 120 mile drive. We started out heading west across Lake Conroe - with a beautiful view of the lake. We then turned North on FM-149 through the Sam Houston National Forest. This route is characterized by tree lined roads, sparse development, elevation changes, and plenty of sweeping curves. We eventually reached Highway 30 where we turned west toward our lunch stop - the Yankee Tavern & Grill -- which is near Gibbons Creek Reservoir and a little past Roans Prairie (population 63 so you may not be familiar with it ). After a leisurely lunch at Yankee Tavern & Grill, we started south on what is probably the most fun road around - FM-3090. This stretch of road has fast sweeping turns, sharp turns requiring downshifts, and plenty of elevation changes. It's one where, if you're talking too much and not paying attention, you can find yourself headed straight when the road makes a hard turn like Gordon Bard & I almost did (luckily I have good brakes and no MG's were negligently injured on the drive). After FM-3090, we arrived at Highway 6 near Navasota where one car, Neil Humphries' 1971 MGB lost his clutch. It wouldn't be an outing if we didn't have at least one car needing assistance & this drive proved to be especially true of that as a second car, Bill Bowers' 1974 MGB GT (V6 powered) had some odd noises from the hydraulic throwout bearing so he decided to take this opportunity to take a more direct route home for fear it might fail as well. He made it home without incident we're happy to report! The rest of us continued on our route but I alluded earlier to my tendency to chat with my co-pilot. Gordon & I were busy catching up again talking and I missed a turn that, by the time we realized, had added about 10 miles to our total route. We recovered & re-joined our planned route with only a slight detour. The average round trip for the participants - excluding Scott & Trish Hardy who came from the Dripping Springs area -- was about 150 miles. Scott & Trish clocked 530 miles! The best way to ensure your car is prepared to make long drives is, well, to drive it. You may have an issue along the way, but other members will come to your rescue & once you get through any gremlins, you'll be the one helping others out! So, next time there's an opportunity, don't hesitate to join in!

~ Rob Ficalora

Thrills and Turns in Angleton

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 19:40:34 GMT

A short video clip: race bit.mov

A picture-perfect Sunday set the stage for an unforgettable driving event at the Angleton MSR Track 1 racetrack, where eleven MG enthusiasts gathered for a day of camaraderie, curves, and classic car excitement. Members came from near and far—some logging just 20 miles round trip, others nearly 140—but it was the two miles of racetrack that really got the engines (and heart rates) revving.

Though billed as “parade laps,” these sessions were anything but a casual cruise. The sharp corners and quick pace delivered plenty of adrenaline, proving once again that MGs were built for more than leisurely Sunday drives.

Adding a dash of drama to the day’s stories was the revelation that event organizer Pete Sandy had rolled his racer just two days earlier during a track session. Thanks to a solid roll-bar, Pete walked away unscathed—but the same couldn't be said for his car, which took a beating. Pete was tight-lipped about how long he hung upside-down, but we’re glad to report he was in good spirits on Sunday.

Leading the pack in style was David Griffith, serving as our enthusiastic pace car driver in his beautifully supercharged 1948 MG TC—a true crowd-pleaser both on and off the track.

Events like this capture the spirit of MG ownership: the thrill of driving, the joy of community, and the simple pleasure of putting these cars to the test. As we know, our cars are meant to go “Safety Fast”—and this day proved just that.

Participants:
Lee Drum, Mike Woodward, Clay Ownby, Rick Colwell, Ken Evesson, Pete Sandy, Derek Shelton (and grandson), Bill Sysman, Bob Crow, David Griffith, and Dwight Dawson.

Pete Sandy with Lee Drum

Safety Inspection Event

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 21:35:57 GMT

Seven trusty souls attended the recent Safety inspection tech session at the Woodward garage. All seven MGs failed!! The most common failure was non- functioning lights. Two cars had no brake lights and some had other lights not working. Oil leaks and suspension problems were also observed.

Perhaps the most distressing was a Past President's car that arrived with a barely-functioning brake system. Event coordinator Mike Woodward was available to adjust the rear brakes so that Member was able to make it home safely.

This event had a welcome outcome in making participants fully aware of their mechanical issues before they caused a bigger problem. And, as at this inspection, it was great to actually correct the problem on the spot.

For those not attending this event, perhaps some self-inspection of your MG is advised.

~ Mike Woodward

Driver Awards Standings

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 21:26:10 GMT

Click these links to view the latest standings:

MG Driver Award 2025.pdf

MG Safety Fast Driver Award 2025.pdf

The Texas Twisted Sisters Tour – 50th Anniversary Edition!

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 15:49:12 GMT

If you bought your MG because you love driving, you will not want to miss the Texas Twisted Sisters Tour (TTST), which we guarantee will be the best Texas sports car drive you will do this year! This memorable event will take place Thursday, May 8, 2025, to kick off the 50^th Anniversary GoF in Kerrville. If you are planning to go to the GoF this year, do not miss this outing! The drive is a repeat of the Twisted Sisters event the HMGCC co-sponsored three years ago.

What are the Twisted Sisters?

The Texas Twisted Sisters are a trio of rural roads traversing some of the best scenery in Hill Country. Legendary in the motorcycle community, the confluence of Ranch Roads 335, 336 and 337 follows canyons and jagged hills and features twisted curves with a conspicuous lack of guardrails. The route crosses and follows several dry washes, creeks and rivers, including the Nueces River and Hackberry Creek. Altogether, the Sisters total over 113 miles of the best driving roads in Texas. And the roads getting to them are fabulous, too!

How Can I Join in the Fun?

The west Hill Country location of the Twisted Sisters makes the TTST best enjoyed as a day trip from the GoF location in Kerrville. To take part in the TTST, you will first need to register for the Spring GoF on the TMGR website and include your intention to drive in this event. You will need to arrive on Wednesday night, May 7, 2025, so either make or change your hotel reservations to include Wednesday night at the Y. O. Ranch Hotel. A driver’s meeting will be held at 8:00 p.m. Wednesday evening at the hotel to discuss logistics and safety on the drive. We recommend retiring early to be ready to hit the road at 8:00 a.m. in the morning. Please fill your tank on Wednesday night because the Thursday drive will cover 230 miles.

Tour Notes

The TTST is a long and physical drive. Please make sure your car is in top condition and all the usual checks are performed before doing this drive.
We will make regular stops along the route. Lunch will be held at the famous Bent Rim Grill. We should be back in Kerrville before 4:00 pm.
Bring extra tools and consumables such as fan belts and fuel pumps if you have them. These roads are sparsely populated and far from any services.
While all roads on this tour are paved, do not expect perfectly smooth asphalt and road conditions. Your car may get wet crossing a stream.
We will observe the speed limits, but if you have trouble keeping up with the pace, please bring your concerns to the attention of the tour organizers. It is likely that we will have two groups of drivers, and you are welcome to drive with the “sightseeing” group.
Please bring FRS radios if you have them to aid communication among the participants.
Please email, text or phone all questions to the organizer, Scott Hardy, scott.b.hardy@gmail.com, 832-613-3664.

In Memoriam

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 00:29:21 GMT

This note was posted today regarding an original founding member of the Houston MG Car Club.

"It is with a heavy heart I inform you that Dean Kring peacefully passed away Friday evening (March 28th). He had been dealing with various health challenges for the last 2 years.

There are no funeral or memorial arrangements, only an intimate service with family.

I want to extend my sincere gratitude to all who supported his business endeavors and who offered friendship. He was truly one of a kind! I will miss him....Yvonne.

Dean was a character. The last MG we saw him in was a purple chrome bumper MGB. He often introduced himself as "Member No. 2." Only Club Founder Nick Nickles came before Dean.

Thanks for helping to get things started Dean!

Lesser Cars in Autocross

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 02:17:24 GMT

As you can see, cars other than Triumphs and MGs also completed runs at the recent Autocross. It must be FUN if drivers cannot resist taking out the old Cadillac, early Mustang, or Volvo!

lesser.pdf

Oh, So Close!!

Sun, 16 Mar 2025 21:17:09 GMT

Last year the MGs brought home the MG/Triumph autocross trophy. In the Spring 2025 match held last Saturday, the Triumphs won the competion. All the details are posted below.

The 17 competing Triumphs had the better of the Individual Average Times on the course at the Houston Police Academy with 77.757 seconds. The 16 MGs averaged 79.038. Each Driver was allowed 4 runs. The MGs had Fastest Average Times of 75.8988 seconds. They were bested by the Triumph Drivers by only .0001 Second!! (electronic timer). Well done MG Drivers!

Drivers often say that Autocrossing is the most fun you can have with your clothes on.

Autocross Results.pdf

BRINGING MGB TO LIFE

Sun, 09 Mar 2025 22:51:06 GMT

From the Octagonal office:

It was refreshing to see 15 men, applying their skills and experience to assess the 1980 MGB donated to the Houston Club. On Saturday (01 March) they came to my house, and attempted to get the car running for the first time since 1992.

HMGCC Bill Sysman brought a battery, and we completed the 12 volt circuit to the starter.

On first turn over, we verified that we had oil pressure on the gauge, and that oil was lubricating the rockers. The gauge read 50psig.

We then ran a cylinder compress, we achieved 115, 85, 105, and 30 psi on cylinders 1 – 4, respectively. Low pressure was expected, as two of the valves have been in the open position since it was last run.

It was found that the ignition was not working….no spark. Jumpering 12V to the coil, and replacing a faulty relay resulted in spark. I was holding the lead, and jumped two feet when the key was turned. Didn’t see the spark, but definitely felt it.

We also found that the fuel pump wasn’t working, which would have been a real issue had the car been equipped with its original carbs. A little gas into the Weber caused the engine to cough, and then she ignited. We will try this again, hooking up a facet pump to supply a steady stream of fuel, and let this old motor warm-up. I am fairly certain that the cylinder pressure will prove satisfactory after the engine comes to temperature, and the sticky valves begin to operate as expected.

There was plenty of beer and snacks around, helping to keep our members hydrated and happy.

Two members brought over their cylinder heads, and I performed a wet fluorescent magnetic particle inspection on both of them. Both were crack free. This brought Pete Sandy a smile, as he was told that his racing cylinder head had a crack in it. We verified that this was not the case.

It was particularly pleasing to see members turning wrenches, jumpering wires, and applying their skills to get this car running. We have a car club!

If you are in the market for a 1980 MGB, a car with solid metal, and a usable engine, come to the April meeting and bid on her.

Rich Colwell

Pop-up Events

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 16:15:08 GMT

It is interesting to see how a simple gathering of MGs and their drivers, can provide the greatest enjoyment and insights.

Such was the case on February 26 when 14 of us shared a noon-time meal at the Senate Brewery in Jersey Village. On the sun-dappled patio, attendees explored outrageous stories along with intense problem-solving and helpful tech suggestions and internet referrals.

These low-profile, minimal-planning events are so easy to arrange. Anyone can select a location, note the address, set a date (mid-week) and send it all to our Events Coordinator. We call these a Pop-Up event; if you allow a notification two weeks prior, the mileage to and from can be awarded for applicable club awards competition. Give a try at a place near you…you may be amazed at who shows up. A Facebook message can invite non-members too.

The MG R Type

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 23:24:33 GMT

While in New Zealand last year, Candy and I had the opportunity to enjoy a few hours at the Southward Car Museum. Among the many spectacular automobiles we came across was an MG we’d never even heard of… the R Type.

If you are ever in New Zealand, be sure to include this museum on your itinerary. It is on the North Island, near Wellington. It is the most comprehensive we’ve ever seen. We thank fellow Member Michael Shouse for getting us there.

The Rumor is True!!

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 14:38:05 GMT

Some of you have heard that the club has an MGB Overdrive Transmission that we will be auctioning. Well, it is true! If you have an MGB and are tired of running at 3,5400-4,000 RPM or more to cruise at highway speeds, this is your chance! MGB Overdrives reduce engine speed by 18% for any given road speed which is significant.

This is a BLUE LABEL overdrive transmission that club member, Rob Ficalora, refurbished (with a lot of guidance, phone calls, & email support from MGB transmission guru Dick Morritz). It has been disassembled, cleaned, inspected, worn parts replaced, reassembled, and bench tested to operate correctly. All 4 synchros (the main wear components) were replaced in this refresh as were all gaskets and seals.

Auction details:

Date: April 5th during our monthly meeting

Location: Spring Creek BBQ in Shenandoah TX (near The Woodlands)

Must be a club member in good standing no later than April 1st to participate in the auction. If you are not a member and want to participate, you can join at www.houstonmgcc.com/join-us.

Must be present to win.

While it is believed to be in excellent condition and has been bench tested, it is being sold as is/where is. The transmission being auctioned carries no warranty.

Starting bid will be $1500.

The winning bidder must collect the transmission at the auction on April 5th unless otherwise coordinated with Rob Ficalora at or before the auction. If not collected at the meeting, the winning bidder will need to make arrangements to pick it up at Rob's home in Willis, TX.

NOTE: If you are interested but not sure about compatibility for your car, email the club @ HoustonMGCarClub@gmail.com and we will send you the compatibility information we have.

You don't want to miss the February meeting!

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 00:27:51 GMT

In our February Monthly Meeting, Rich Colwell will give a presentation on how to extract horsepower from your engine. Tactics were taught by Carl Heideman and John Twist in their "Tuning for Speed" Course in Grand Rapids Michigan. See the events page for location details.

From the Octagonal President's Office

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 01:56:15 GMT

2024 was a very good year for the Houston MG Car Club. It is clear to me that the leadership during the last 5 years or so has been exemplary, and the club events exhibit a lot of vitality. My thanks to the past leadership for leaving the club in a healthy status as we enter 2025.

It is my hope that the driving trend will increase in 2025, and that the driving events will be desirable and fun, enticing club members to come out and join in celebrating our shared passion. I am going to attempt to run a funkhana during our club picnic, something that I have not done before, but would like to. If you have experience with organizing such an event, please reach out and give me your two cents.

One activity that we will be doing more of is providing tech sessions and vehicle safety inspections throughout the year. Additionally, if you are a club member, and your car is not on the road, please reach out to me. We will come to your house and provide technical consultation/help so that you can benefit from those with experience in keeping these little cars running.

Another fun event will be watching club member Pete Sandy race his little British sports car at MSR (Angleton, TX) on 26 April. More details on this to come.

The first monthly club meeting for 2025 is this Saturday at 11:00 at Lyndon's BBQ , 5320 Hollister just off Highway 290. I hope to see you there.

Rich Colwell, President

2024 Club Awards

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 17:03:34 GMT

Club Awards for 2024 were presented at the Christmas Party. The time and energy devoted to planning and coordinating driving and other events that generate these awards cannot be understated. Well done officers and volunteers!

(Detail about each award can be seen on the website tab ABOUT/AWARDS.)

500 MILE AWARDS

Dash plaques, recognizing 500 or more miles driven in an MG, were provided to:

Ron Redding
Mike Craven
Bob Chalker
Greg Fleischer
Lee Drum
Vernon Jones
Dwight Dawson
Steve Sessions
Scott Kalish
Gavin Kidd

SAFETY FAST AWARD (Most Events in an MG)

Mike Craven, attended 18 events

KIMBER SPIRIT AWARD (Most Events in any Car)

Dwight and Candy Dawson

MG DRIVER AWARD (Most Miles in an MG)

Ron Redding, 1849 miles (many in his 1958 MG Magnette)

ALAN RAYNE MEMORIAL AWARD (also known as Broken Crankshaft Award

Ray Holtzapple

RALPH DIEBERT AWARD

Arnel Brown, 1953 MG TD

BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ AWARD

Ron Redding

PRESIDENT’S AWARD for member who has provided exceptional leadership or service

Jim Goldmeyer

BACK SEAT DRIVER AWARD

Greg Fleischer & Tony Galt

PRESIDENTIAL RECOGNITION AWARD

Bob Chalker was honored for his leadership and accomplishments as President in 2023 and 2024. This included recognition from the North American MGB Register for coordination of a most successful NAMGBR national convention…MG2024 in Katy, Texas.

NAMGBR 2025 - Crystal Lake, IL

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 19:04:05 GMT

The Worst Road Trip… Ever!! NAMGBR 2025 in Crystal Lake, IL

(NOTE: Before you ask, Driver's Award miles are only accepted if 3 or more Members make the trip. This was decided by our Board of Directors.)

UPDATE: This trip is definitely a go! Surprisingly, we have managed to convince some otherwise responsible MG Owners that this trip would not be the worst decision they have ever made. How about you? Have you ever regretted not doing something wild and crazy with a really high potential for disaster? Well then, let your inner teenager make the decision for you and give us a call! Or read on and let us really scare you before you decide.

So you have been thinking that this year you would finally make it to a NAMGBR convention, and you figure that Crystal Lake, IL is a lot closer than Calgary was, right? You’d love to see how Chicagoland puts on a show, but aren’t sure you want to make that long trip yourself? You want to treat yourself and your MG to a nice, relaxing road trip? Well, you’re outa luck, because our planned drive to the Land of Lincoln will be THE WORST ROAD TRIP… EVER!!

“Why?”, you ask, “Why is it going to be THE WORST ROAD TRIP… EVER!! ?” Well, for one thing, you could make the trip in two days. Just hit the interstate and the cruise control on your MG and wake up in Chicago two days later. But no, not us! We’re going to take six friggin’ days! And those nice, comfortable interstates? Fugetaboudit! We’re going to take those miserable, slow, two-lane, twisty roads that will have your arms aching by noon!

What else, you say? How about the scenery? We could choose to drive through the enchanting expanses of suburbia, with their arrays of neat strip malls and outlet stores. But instead, we’re going out of our way to avoid buildings and expose you to endless vistas of fences, pastures, trees and hills. For mile after mile after endless mile.

But surely it gets better when it comes to food, right? WRONG! You will be dying for a chain restaurant by the time we hit Chicago. You better like those run-down local diners, with their “character” and “diverse” menus.

So if we still haven’t convinced you that this road trip is entirely underwhelming, just check out this proposed itinerary:

• Day 1: Meet up in aptly named Sulphur Springs, TX.

• Day 2: Bake in the sweltering Texas summer heat on your way to Hot Springs, AR. Where it also smells.

• Day 3: Fight off mosquitoes in the Ozark National Forest and seek cover in Eureka Springs, AR.

• Day 4: Get your kicks on sleepy Route 66 and celebrate tackiness raised to an art form. Overnight in a forgettable town not named after a spring.

• Day 5: Fight through traffic in St. Louis and overnight in Springfield, IL – a town that still celebrates log cabins. Really.

• Day 6: Try to not let the endless corn fields put you to sleep as you finally spill out of your car exhausted in Crystal Lake.

If you’re still thinking of going to NAMGBR 2025, and if we haven’t convinced you that our route there will be THE WORST ROAD TRIP… EVER!!, then you have our deepest sympathy. If you would like to further discuss this or your other poor life choices, please contact Scott Hardy at scott.b.hardy@gmail.com and we will be glad to offer you a consultation. Offer only available until the end of March, 2025.

2024 All British Showoff

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 18:52:56 GMT

Our 34th Annual All British Car (and Motorcycle!) Day on October 12th was a great success!

We had over 70 cars registered this year and once again the weather cooperated giving us a beautiful day to show off our cars and enjoy everyone else’s pride and joy. In addition to our MGs, we had a beautiful 2 owner original 1961 Rolls Royce along with other Rolls and Bentleys, Jags, Triumphs, and a nice turnout of our marque car this year, the Mini, including a rare example owned by David Fowler who won First Place.

The Butler House Restaurant was once again our host and they came through by opening up their patio for us even though they are closed for remodeling. A special thanks to them for all their help. Again this year we had people driving by that wanted to participate and entered their cars that day.

In addition to our club’s great display of cars, our own Club band, Abingdon Express, provided live music! Thanks goes to John Bowyer on Guitar and vocals, Walter Bernard on keyboards and vocals, Al Slayter on Bass, Ken Evesson on Drums and Ed Evesson as the sound guy and roadie.

Our Show would not be possible without the great help of volunteers that gave their time and efforts during the show to make it the success it was:

Libby Nash, Doty Goldmeyer, Dwight and Candy Dawson...Silent Auction

Byron Nash…Parking

Scott Kalish and Roger Sykes…Entrance Directions/Handouts

Steve Session…Show Co-Chair, art design, voting process, late Registration.

Our Annual British Car Day attracted the attention of the Houston area British Consulate who attended our festivities and handed out the winner awards. This was a treat and added British authenticity.

The biggest thanks goes to all that attended and participated this year! Without you there would only be an empty parking lot instead of little puddles of oil in each parking space! See y’all at the 35th Annual all British Car Day next year!

Lee Drum, Chairman

The Awards:

MGTD - Tracey Davidson

MGA - James McWhinne

MGB Chrome Bumper - 3 tied for first place

James McWhinne

Ron Redding

Gavin Kidd

MGB Rubber Bumper - David Lawrence

Austin Healey 100 - Neville Skead

British Customized - Steve Session

British Luxury - Ed Stacey

British Special Interest - John Mottershaw

British Vintage - Franklin Carpenter

Jaguar E Type - Erik Lipper

Jaguar 1969 & Earlier - Eddie Doughty

Jaguar 1970 & Later - Mike Woodward

Lotus 1988 & Later - Neil Humphries

Mini - Dave Fowler

Mini 2020 & Later - Doty Goldmeir

Morgan - Kim Freeman

Triumph TR2 & TR3 -Kenny Daves

Triumph TR4 & TR250 Mike Hado

Triumph TR6 - Neville Skead

Triumph TR7 & TR8 - Williams Fickle

Triumph Spitfire & GT6 - John Barrett

Triumph Stag - Nik Jindal

Motorcycle - Al Dykes

Best in Show - Neville Skead

People’s Choice - James McWhinnie

Autocross Results

Sun, 17 Nov 2024 21:31:01 GMT

Dear All,

Here are the results.

Published Results.pdf

Let's Make a Run to Shiner

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 17:47:47 GMT

A September Run To Shiner, TX

The trip to Shiner was nicely organized by Jim Goldmeyer and Scott Hardy. The Houston group showed up at Katy’s Bucee’s at 9AM. We had 10 cars including a mixture of British and modern for support. The 100 mile drive to Shiner started with some shade and cooler temperatures. The Alamo Club from San Antonio and the Capital City Club from Austin met us at the Shiner Brewery. There we enjoyed some live music, barbecue and cool Shiner’s beer. There was a good turnout of automobiles from all 3 clubs.

...by Mike Craven

Car Show for Seniors

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 16:02:03 GMT

Saturday, October 26. It was a great day for topless driving. For the Buckner Parkway Place Senior Living Facility, the Club showed 8 cars including a Triumph and a 1956 Austin Healey...owned by one of the Residents. A number of the Seniors showed up at 11 AM to take a look. As usual many of them had an interesting story about when they had an LBC or something like the show cars. As the photograph suggests, Jim Chase’s MG TC was likely the biggest hit of the show. Five MGB’s, including both rubber & chrome bumpers, rounded out the show. A number of the facility staff members made a second visit to the show once the Residents finished, to get a closer look at the cars. Just think of the day as you might experience it...someday in the future...as a Resident!

Photos and Text by Mike Craven

Car-tathalon - Reliving 36 years of MG ownership

Sun, 13 Oct 2024 21:48:15 GMT

Club member Rich Colwell wrote a great article about his 36 years of fun with his MG's. Definitely worth the read -- many of us resonate with his experiences!

The article is shared here with permission of NAMGAR’s MGA! Magazine.

Rich Colwell MGAR Magazine Article.pdf

Caring For Our Community

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 14:42:10 GMT

Anytime the members of the Houston MG Car Club gather it is a special time with the driving of our cars, sharing a meal, helping each other keep our cars running and most importantly enjoying the friendship of fellow members. But every once in awhile a day stands out as being truly special. This month's monthly meeting was one of those days.

It began with a moment of silence in memory of club member and friend Ralph Ratta. He will be greatly missed by all of us. From the many posts on Facebook it is clear that he touched many, many people across Texas and throughout the U.S. MG Community.

Next was the planned program for the meeting, the presenting of financial support to two local charities. Each year the NAMGBR and the local host chapter commit to present 25% of the net proceeds from the NAMGBR Annual Conference and Car Show to support charitable organizations in the local community where the event was held. The decision as to which charities to support is made by the local club. We chose to support Katy Christian Ministries and The Brookwood Community.

Presentation of check to Deysi Crespo, Katy Christian Ministries by Ron Redding and Bob Chalker

Deysi Crespo, Executive Director of Katy Christian Ministries was on hand to receive their check and to share with us a little about the great work they are doing in the community. KCM is a social services non-profit serving Katy/West Houston with programing that includes a food pantry, a crisis center for domestic abuse and sexual assault, emergency financial assistance, resiliency programs and a resale store to provide affordable, and often free, clothing and home goods. In 2023 KCM served over 22,000 families with social services. They also provided nearly 1.5 million meals, distributing 1.7 million pounds of food through the food pantry. The crisis center served more than 3000 victims of domestic violence, sexual abuse and mental health issues. If you would like to learn more about the ministry, make a further donation, or you need their help please go to their website https://ktcm.org.

Carol Thornburgh and Jeremy Weisinger, from The Brookwood Community, receiving their check.

We also presented a check to The Brookwood Community. Joining us to receive the check was Carol Thornburg, Chief Advancement Officer, Jeremy Weisinger, a resident of the community and his parents Janna and Mike Fries. Brookwood's mission is "Through the grace of God, to providing an educational environment that creates meaningful work, builds a sense of belonging and awakens genuine purpose in the lives of adults with disabilities". Brookwood is a residential community that provides work programs, health & wellness activities, fine arts and spiritual growth for the more than 200 citizens they are serving. They also operate a gift & garden center, where the works of the residents are made available for purchase, and a restaurant staffed by the residents. If you are in the Katy, area make it a point to visit this community, you will leave with a full stomach, gifts for your loved ones and a changed heart. To learn more about The Brookwood Community or to make a donation go to https://www.brookwoodcommunity.org/

You should take great pride in knowing that the Houston MG Car Club has provided financial support to local charities nearing $10,000 over the past two years. This club truly is something special.

The Latest Awards Standings

Sat, 05 Oct 2024 13:38:42 GMT

The lastest standings for the Driver and the Safety Fast Award. Results are through the end of September. This is the last posting for the year. Award winners will be announced at the Christmas Party!

Ralph Ratta Memorial Service

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 17:32:03 GMT

As was shared recently, Ralph Ratta, a member of our club and of the Texas MG Registry, died in an automobile accident at the Southeast British Motor Car Festival which was hosted by the Peachtree MG Registry in Dillard, GA.

As many of our club knew and were friends with Ralph, his wife, Fay, asked that we share the following:

The memorial service for Ralph will be held Saturday, October 5 at 11am at Oakwood Cemetery in Waco. Afterwards, we invite everyone to make the short drive to Ninfa's Restaurant for a complimentary lunch & celebration of his life.

Please wear casual colorful attire in celebration of Ralph’s casual and colorful spirit.

Fay will need an approximate count for Ninfa's so if you plan to attend the lunch, please let me know by emailing me at CustomV8MGB@gmail.com.

Rob Ficalora, HMGCC Membership Chair

Wiring information to keep with your car!

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 17:27:33 GMT

This month's Texas MG Registry's newsletter had some excellent information about our car's wiring color scheme which I'm sharing below. In addition, For MGB owners (as well as the lesser Triumph marque), a friend of mine, Steve Carrick, who owns Advanced AutoWire (which offers the absolute best aftermarket & upgraded wiriing harnesses for our cars), has the most complete set of wiring diagrams for Triumphs & MGB's that I know of. They can be found at http://advanceautowire.com/ in the "stock schematics" section. It is worth downloading & printing the schematic for your year and even laminating it to keep in the car.

This information below is what was in the Texas MG Registry's newsletter and is an excerpt from 'Rewiring Your MG' by Dave Braun.

Wiring Colors

Lucas wiring codes are simple and although there are occasional exceptions to the color codes, memorizing the codes is a worthwhile practice for someone rewiring or trouble-shooting a British car. The common color code letters are included here for reference. Please note that each of these codes have sub-codes that are denoted by colored 'tracers' but still follow the main code traits.

BROWN (N) is a direct feed from the battery. It is always hot (un-switched) and un-fused. The only way to isolate a brown circuit is to disconnect it from the battery. Brown feeds go to the ignition switch, headlight switch, some hazard flashers, the starter relay, the alternator and the fuse box.

PURPLE (P) is what become of a brown wire after it goes through the fuse box. Purple is always hot (unswitched) but fused. Purple circuits go to the horns; some hazard flashers; courtesy and door lamps and the flash to pass switch (yes...two 12-volt sources in that little dipping switch!). You can isolate the purple circuit by removing the fuse.

WHITE (W) is what becomes of a brown wire after it goes through the ignition switch. White is only hot when switched and is un-fused. All the components that come on with the need to run the engine are on the white circuit, including the fuel pump, the ignition coil, on some cars the overdrive, any feeds to seatbelt circuits, the radio and the fuse box to provide a switched source of power.

GREEN (G) is from the white wire after it goes through the fuse box. Green is switched and fused. Green circuits provide power to most of the gauge functions (including the infamous 'voltage stabilizer'), the turn signals, heater fan, wipers and brake lights. You can isolate the green circuits by removing the fuse.

BLUE (U) is from the brown wire after it goes through the headlight switch. Blue is only hot when switched and un- fused. Blue goes to the headlight dipper where it becomes two important sub-codes - blue with a red tracer (UR) to the dipped beam lights and blue with a white tracer (UW) to the main beam lights.

RED with GREEN TRACER (RG) is also from the brown wire after it goes to the headlight switch. I think this is where someone at Lucas went to lunch, had a few pints, came back and mixed up the codes. This is the code that goes to the fuse box with a tracer and comes out of the fuse box as a single color. So RED WITH GREEN is only hot when switched by the headlamp switch and it is un-fused. RED WITH GREEN goes to the fuse box as mentioned and also the gauge lamp switch or dimmer. A special subset of the RED WITH GREEN tracer is the RED WITH WHITE (RW) tracer wire that comes out of the gauge lamp switch (dimmer). The RED WITH WHITE tracer is the instrument lighting circuit.

RED (R) denotes the RED WITH GREEN tracer wire after it goes through the fuse box. As such, red is switched and fused. Red circuits are the front parking lights, the tail-lights and the license plate lights.

BLACK (B) wire is a ground wire. Any other color wire with a black tracer is likely the ground side switching wire for that component.

Memories of the HMGCC

Sun, 22 Sep 2024 19:00:31 GMT

Memories of the HMGCC by Wayne Moore

I was asked to jot down a few of my special memories from Dixie's and my days in the Houston MG Car Club, so here goes.

We joined the club in September of 1987. We were new to MGs but we were experienced in time-speed-distance rallies. A year or so after we became members there was a night rally planned for the club. We were excited, hoping to do well, maybe even to win the thing. That is, we were excited until we found out that one of our new members was a professional rallyist! This fellow had rallied in Mexico, South America, and other points north and south. To make matters worse he would be driving his showroom-new Porsche.

The night of the rally the young pro showed up with his rally clothes on, his beautiful Porsche, and his very lovely fiancée. He was to drive and she would be his navigator. Oh, well, we figured you can't win them all.

The rally began with the cars leaving the starting line three minutes apart. Truthfully, I can't remember how we did, but I remember that all of the cars finished; that is all of the cars except for one. You guessed it. The Porsche was nowhere to be seen. After an hour Mr. Pro was disqualified for being late.

Just as Dixie and I were preparing to leave for home the Porsche arrived at the finish line. The rallyist and his bride-to-be were literally screaming at each other. He was accusing her of not being able ot read or follow instructions and she was accusing him of...oh well, you get the picture. The end of the story is that the wedding was called off and we never saw either of them again.

Editor: Competitive club rally events can be hazardous to relationships.

A Sad Day for the MG Community

Sun, 15 Sep 2024 17:37:24 GMT

Ralph was also a member of the Houston MG Car Club and a friend to many of us. As more information becomes available we will pass it along. Please keep Fay (Ralph's wife), Greg and Mary in your thoughts and prayers.

Awards Update

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 15:59:37 GMT

Attached is an update for the Driver's and the Safety Fast Award through the end of July 2024.

Revision of Officer's Terms of Service

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 15:52:59 GMT

At the September, 2024 monthly meeting the Board of Directors recommended and the members in attendance approved a revision to the Club's Bylaws, Article III, Section (8) to revise the term that an individual serves in an officer position from two (2) to one (1) year.

The Board of Directors recognizes that a two year commitment is overly burdensome and preventing many people from being able to serve the club in the officer roles. It is believe that the reduced term of service will facilitate more members being able to participate..

Meet The Press

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 15:23:08 GMT

The city of Shiner is as excited about our trip to the Spoetzl Brewery this weekend as we are. This is obvious by the fact that the Shiner Gazette reached out to club member Jim Goldmeyer, who is coordinating the drive, to do a story.

This event is unique in that we will have members of the MG car clubs in Austin and San Antonio joining us.

Click HERE to read the story.

Award Update through June 2024

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 00:41:04 GMT

Unique MG TD History

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 22:34:46 GMT

All of our MGs have interesting history. Some of it is recent, some long-forgotten, and some unique history goes all the way back to the day it left the factory.

One of our members, Chuck Quinn, has a 1952 MG TD that Skip Robbins layed hands on to keep it running well. In the process of restoration, pieces of the wooden frame were found in poor condition and had to be replaced. One of those tired wood pieces, in this photo, has the name and address of a factory staffer. In this case, it was Dorothy Smith who neatly affixed her name and address. Today, if she has survived, she would be in her 90’s or older. I didn't know that builder autographs were a feature of MGs. Has anyone else seen such history in an MG?

MGB Overdrive Technical Information

Fri, 19 Jul 2024 17:59:33 GMT

Simon Dix, webmaster for the NAMGBR website and general MG guru put together and recently shared this phenomenal article on the MGB Overdrive unit. It's a must read (and bookmark) for anyone with an MGB Overdrive or anyone considering getting one!

https://mg-stuff.stlbrits.com/kb/mgb-overdrive-diagnostics/

NAMGBR and AMGBA

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 20:19:06 GMT

Our hosting of a very excellent national meet of the North American MGB Register this year, in Katy, reminded me that we earlier hosted another national meet, for the AMGBA. In was June 1 and 2, 2001 in conjunction with our All British Motor Vehicle Exposition, which that year was held at Trader’s Village. Ron Redding and I were credited with organizing the combined events.

It was the Annual Meet of The American MGB Association which was formed in 1975 in New York City. Our event in 2001 was their second time in Texas. In 1986, the event was in San Antonio. Candy and I attended it, even before joining the Houston MG Club in 1992. As the photo attests, we came home with an award!

Attorney Frank Ochal of Chicago was a key figure in the functioning of the AMGBA. Unbeknownst to me, Frank died in December 2022 and the organization has since faltered. Their website is no longer active. Some information remains available at MGB.TIPS

The North American MGB Register was formed in late 1990 as the result of a strong demand for a non-profit, democratic organization which would be run by MG enthusiasts, for MG enthusiasts. NAMGBR is completely managed and run by club members. It is a 501(c)7 nonprofit organization registered with the IRS and incorporated in the state of Illinois. NAMGBR also sought and gained the approval and support of the MG Car Club of England, the original and oldest of all MG clubs. Consequently NAMGBR is the only national MGB organization in the United States, Mexico and Canada officially sanctioned by the MG Car Club.

The Patootie Saga

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 19:37:32 GMT

Not quite AAA, but somewhat effective.

In June, three members of the Houston MG Car Club travelled to Dickenson, Texas to help out club member, Ms. Katie Embesi, who owns a red 1976 MG Midget named “Patootie”.  Katie had concerns around a lack-luster response in acceleration, and a car that was running a bit rough.

Rich Colwell, Ken Evesson and Bill Sysman arrived somewhat unprepared, being MGA owners, with tools to adjust SU carbs, and lots of tools that were not needed at all.  However, as has been said: “fools venture where angels fear to tread.”  They had no experience with Zenith-Stromberg carburetors, but ventured ahead anyway.

The car needed a little attention, but started right up.  Under the bonnet was a host of air pollution equipment that none of them were familiar with.  The air cleaner was not clipped into place, but zip-tied.

The Team began by checking for vacuum leaks (using aerosol carb cleaner) around the head and intake manifold, carburetor mounts, smog canisters, tubing, and fittings, and found none.

They looked at the choke assembly, and noted that it seemed to be sticky.  They exercised it and sprayed it liberally with carb cleaner, removing dirt/soot.

Next, they removed the air cleaner (not sooted up). Upon lifting the carburetor piston a tiny bit with a screwdriver, the idle rose and came back to an equilibrium idle.  This was a happy finding, as none of them had any experience with Zenith-Stromberg carburetors, and it appeared that the mixture was correct. The cable was also adjusted.

Ken noted that the piston’s dashpot was empty.  They scrounged for 30 weight oil, added it and got resistance in the chamber. Now the car was running more steadily, and acceleration was responsive.

Next was a very noisy exhaust rattle.  A short-term solution: adding washers to the mounting system, tightening up supports, and creating a little clearance between the muffler and the body.   They saw the back-up lights not plugged in and attended to that.

It became apparent that Katie is clearly one of us.  She dug into the Midget and learned her way around its electrical system. In short order she will develop expertise in Zenith-Stromberg carburetors, and then can teach us a few things.

It was gratifying for the Team to hear the Midget running better, and for them to learn a little bit about another classic MG model. Best of all, it was great to see a smile on the face of our motivated and capable Club member Katie Embesi. Patootie’s future is well-assured.

Morningstar Assisted Living

Sat, 15 Jun 2024 17:35:30 GMT

Steve Session arranged a unique “show and tell” for residents of the Morningstar Assisted Living facility on Richmond Ave. They were pleased to have us there to see our old little British cars and to join and enjoy their “fish fry” which was a lot more than just fish! Participants on that torrid Thursday afternoon were Jon Crocker,Jay Kleinheinz, Dwight Dawson.Steve and Jackie Session. None of us signed up there yet, but it looks like good living, once we hang up our driving gloves.

Membership Trivia

Sat, 08 Jun 2024 21:08:45 GMT

HMGCC Membership Trivia

From a Membership report dated September 1989, there were 98 members. This included 21 new members in the previous 6 months. On this report, there are only 8 names that also appear on our Current Roster. They are John Bowyer, Dean Kring (member #2), Dixie Moore, Hillary Scovell, Dave Renner, Joan Carr, Marilyn Proctor and Tom Dooley. Membership in June 2024 is still growing from 176. We can expect more after the October All British Car Show. Since we have Family Memberships, the actual number of people involved in the Club is currently well over 300. It will be fun to also calculate the number of MGs that are with us collectively!

In the photo, member Joe Lopez reflects with the late Derek Scovell.

NZ Car Museum

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 22:16:35 GMT

When in New Zealand, you must reserve at least a half day for the Southward Car Museum. It is the finest comprehensive collection of cars we have ever seen. It is located in Paraparaumu, Wellington.

Battle of the Brits

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 14:50:52 GMT

Houston MG Car Club Driver Awards Update

Wed, 29 May 2024 22:09:52 GMT

MG2024 - Wow, Just Wow!

Mon, 13 May 2024 21:58:45 GMT

Well, that was one heck of a shindig! Before going further let me thank all of those who travelled far and wide to join us. We loved havin’ y’all here in Katy. Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedules to travel deep into the heart of Texas. When we began the planning, we could not have hoped for such a great event. From the weather to the tech sessions to the driving tours it was a blast!

I also want to take the opportunity to thank all of the volunteers from the Houston MG Car Club and the North American MGB Register. It is their hard work and dedication that made the event a success. I have worked on a lot of events over the years but because of the tremendous support this was one of the most enjoyable.

We had over 250 people in attendance, registering over 150 cars, with 135 making it to Wednesday's Show Field. The banquet was sold out and all of the driving events were a hit.

And I can’t express enough how grateful we are to the City of Katy. Thank YOU!

There aren't enough words to describe what a great week it was, so the best way to enjoy MG2024 is through pictures (we all know they are worth a 1000 words). So here you go!

100 Miles Celebrating 100 Years of MG

Fri, 05 Apr 2024 21:40:55 GMT

On March 16th a caravan of Houston MG Car Club members headed out for a 100 mile drive to celebrate 100 years of the MG Car Club.

It was a spirited drive with lots of twists and turns through the northwestern Houston countryside. From the smiles on everyone's faces it was clear that drivers and navigators alike had a great time.

A little over halfway through the drive we stopped at the Yankee Tavern & Grill for a bit to eat and quench our thirst.

I am not sure how our fearless leader, Rob Ficalora, arranged it but the threatening weather held off and we all stayed dry. Good thing to because a couple brave souls left their hoods at home.

We ended the day with refreshments at Dave Griffith's garage, Thanks Dave!!!

This drive was so well enjoyed that we have added it to the club's "Favorite Roads" page under Resources. If you are looking for a great way to spend a day with your MG check out this page as it has several great roads for your enjoyment.

A Big Thank YOU! to Rob for planning this event. There is no better way that we could have celebrated a 100 years

Did you know that the official Centennial celebration of the MG car company spanned two years, mid-2023 to mid-2024. If any MG Car Club member can share with us at a club meeting why this is the case we have a special prize for you!!

Ken Evesson - Classic MG Magazine

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 03:36:08 GMT

If you've been in our club long, you know Ken Evesson. He's one of the necest people you can meet & an example of the best of what our club has to offer. So, I'm especially excited to get to share (with the magazine's permission) a great article that the North American Classic MG Magazine featuring Ken & his MGA's!

Ken Evesson - Classic MG Article JAN 2024.pdf

2024 Autocross!

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 13:15:39 GMT

If you didn't participate in the Autocross on Saturday, March 23rd, you missed out on one of the most fun activities we can do in our cars! This event is done jointly with the Triumph club -- and it's a bit of a competition. The results are in. While the Triumph club beat us (but only by 0.3 seconds), those results don't do justice to how much fun this event is. If you've never done an autocross, don't let it intimidate you. We have plenty of folks each year who are doing it for the 1st time so you won't be alone. And, you will definitely have fun!

Results are below: Autocross March 23, 2024 Police Academy Published Results.pdf

Great Texas Drives

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 17:22:31 GMT

The other day I came across this video of the 7 Best Motorcycle Roads in Texas. Now we don’t drive motorcycles but our LBC’s enjoy the same roads. Even better 5 of the 7 roads are within a reasonable distance for a day or weekend trip from Houston. One originates out of Montgomery making it very easy to do in a day.

Enjoy, and if anyone makes one of these trips let us know by posting a few pics on our Facebook page.

Driver's Award

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 22:57:04 GMT

Kimber Spirit Award Update

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 22:48:43 GMT

Here is the first update for our 2024 Kimber Spirit Driver's Award...

Safety Fast Driver's Award Update

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 22:46:51 GMT

Here is the first update of our 2024 Safety Fast Driver Award...

Katy Rodeo Parade 2024

Tue, 20 Feb 2024 17:09:27 GMT

It was cloudy, cold and blustery outside but warm, well as warm as an MG can get, inside our cars. The Houston MG Car Club made a great appearance in this year's Katy Rodeo Parade. We had 9 cars and with the cool weather all made it to the end of the parade route with no overheating! Although, I suspect we did put a bit of wear on our clutches.

Thank you to Westenders Car Club member Andres Matheson for taking photos of our cars during the parade.

We even had our own princesses, Jay Schwartz grandaughters, join us in the parade.

We had a few brave souls who drove top down.

Somehow we let a lesser car slip in with us. Not everyone can be blessed to drive an MG.

2024 Is Off and Running

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 19:05:17 GMT

The Club is off to a running start for what is sure to be a fantastic 2024, filled with many driving events, social activities and tech sessions.

We had a great turnout for our January meeting where we caught up with a couple of people to give them their 2023 awards and also the announcement of the 2024 door prize - A Houston MG Car Club wine cooler.

This past weekend the club member's visited the Houston Art Car Museum, a real treat for car buffs and art fanatics. The museum has a rotating art display, this quarter it featured mosaics by Ann Harithas, the museum's founder. For many year's Ann was a strong supporter of Houston artists and the Art Car Parade. Along with her art, there were three cars on display that coordinated with the theme of her work.

The docent, Gary, did an amazing job telling us all about the cars, Ann and her work. Following the Art Car Museum a few of us made the trip over to St. Arnold's Brewery were there are several parade ready art cars on display.

Thanks to Steve Session for the photos from the January Meeting.

The Story behind Christie’s

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 03:04:34 GMT

For many years the Houston MG Car Club met at Christie’s Seafood and Steaks. Many of you may remember the monthly meetings being held in their back room, but I bet you didn’t know the history of the restaurant. It is now the oldest restaurant in Houston and the story is an interesting read. Click HERE to read more.

Merry Christmas and a Very Happy New Year!

Sat, 23 Dec 2023 19:33:07 GMT

2023 Christmas Extravanza

Sat, 16 Dec 2023 16:42:35 GMT

Story and photos by Dwight Dawson

The 33rd Annual Houston All British Car Day Could not be Eclipsed!

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 17:55:14 GMT

What do you get when you mix an absolutely beautiful day with proud British car owners getting together to have fun and help support a wonderful charity, then throw in a solar eclipse for good measure?

Our very own Houston MG Car Club’s 33rd Annual (almost) All British Car Day! This year’s show was held once again on the grounds surrounding The Butler House restaurant. We could not ask for a better host – the Butler House staff went out of their way again this year to help us stage our cars and supported us in every way possible. They even went out and obtained Old Speckled Hen English Ale just for us! We are happy to report that they also found the event a wonderful success and have asked us to return next year.

From the start, one of the main reasons for putting on the show each year is to help support a local charity, and this year’s show was no different. The Isaiah 117 House of Montgomery and Walker Counties was this year’s charity, and we are happy to report that the show raised $1,500 that will be going directly to them. Isaiah 177 House is a wonderful charity set up to help kids transition through a very difficult time in their lives, and we are proud to support it.

The show this year attracted 77 registrants, including six that surprised us all by showing up on the day of the event! Six gorgeous vehicles were in our Premier Class (winner of a first place award in their class two out of the last three years) and were featured in their very own fenced and artificially turfed showcase grounds, complete with cardboard strategically placed under the cars.

Our featured marque this year was Jaguar, and their owners responded with a great representation of their beautiful cars, including our own Mike Woodward who garnered a second-place trophy for his wonderful 2009 Jaguar Vanden Plas. Along with the Jags, Triumph also had a good showing of their fine cars this year, but the largest showing and the best cars (let’s be honest here!) were our very own MG’s, with 34 examples ranging from Raymond Barth’s 1948 MGTC to René Buerger’s 1980 MGB.

The beautiful day also attracted the participation of other British car brands, including Jensen Healey, Sunbeam, Morgan (even a 1937 model), Mini, and a rare 1951 Allard J2. The lone non-British entrant was a crowd pleasing, 97 year old, “I drive the wheels off of it” 1926 Bugatti Type 35 Targo Florio! And yes, it was driven to the show!

This year saw the introduction of a new voting system using our cell phones and a link to vote for your favorite cars. While there were some growing pains with our first use of it, the pluses more than made up for any hiccups encountered and next year it will be even better! We have our own Steve Session to thank for implementing this system. He had the vision for it, found a system that we could work with and adapted it to our needs. By using your phone to vote, the tabulation of votes (and the anxiety that goes along with rushing to get it done) was greatly reduced and allowed us to get to the awards a lot quicker. And who doesn’t like getting their award quicker? The list of class winners can be found in the article below.

Another first this year was the hip sounds and groovy licks from our very own in-club band – the Abingdon Express, made up of Ken Evesson, John Bowyer, Walter Bernard, Al Slater and Rich Cowell. A big thank you to the members of the band for giving their time and energy to come out and play for us and help create a fun and festive atmosphere for us to enjoy.

A big part of the success of the show every year lands squarely on the shoulders of the wonderful people that volunteered to help out. A special thank you to Dwight Dawson for helping to register voters, and his wife Candy and Libby Childs for making the silent auction the success that it was. Thanks also to all who donated items to the auction, to Scott Kalish and Byron Nash for helping with registration and parking, and to Bob and Kim Chalker for making a special trip for supplies and answering all of our last minute questions.

We are excited to be already making plans for next year’s 34th Annual event! It will return to the Butler House on October 12. We look forward to seeing even more beautiful cars and hopefully some motorcycles too, along with the great company of fellow enthusiasts and more of the fine food from The Butler House. Meanwhile, we are working on dialing up more fantastic weather – but arranging another solar eclipse is proving challenging!

- Contributed by Lee Drum

- Photos by Bob Chalker

Class Winners from the 33rd Annual Houston All British Car Day

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 17:02:28 GMT

Class	Winner	Car
MG TC	John Bowyer	1949 MG TC
MG TD	Arnel Brown	1953 MG TD
MG TF	Ed Rosenquist	1955 MG TF
MGA	Neville Skead	1956 MGA 1500
MGA Coupe	Paul Burgess	1959 MGA 1500
MGB Chrome bumper	Dale Schiller	1972 MGB
MGB GT	Bill Bowers	1974 MGB GT
MGB Rubber bumper	Todd Armstrong	1976 MGB
Mini	David Fowler	1975 Mini Cooper Monte Carlo
Morgan	Kim Freeman	1937 Morgan SS
Sunbeam	David Guerrero	1939 Talbot 10
Triumph TR2 & TR3	Mike Hado	1962 Triumph TR3A
Triumph TR4 & 250	Steve Voss	1965 Triumph TR4A
Triumph TR6	Gregory Sidora	1971 Triumph TR6
Jaguar E Type	George Gibbons	1968 Jaguar E Type 4.2
Jaguar 1969 & Earlier	Paul Brown	1963 Jaguar Mark 2
Jaguar 1970 & Newer	Neville Skead	2017 Jaguar F Type R
Land Rover	Sergio Perez	1950 Land Rover Series 1
British Special Interest	Paul Brownell	1951 Allard J2
British Customized	Ken Evesson	1958 MGA 1500

A Very British Costume…

Sat, 04 Nov 2023 13:28:02 GMT

We had a very special costume come to the Witches Brew after party. Scott Hardy came as our very own favorite Brit!

Autocross Results

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 20:45:38 GMT

Here are the results from the TTR-HMGCC Autocross. See the accompanying article below for more information on this great event!

Autocross Results.pdf

Battle of the Brits Redux

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 20:22:18 GMT

The biennial autocross competition between the Texas Triumph Register and the Houston MG Car Club took place on Saturday, October 28 at the usual venue, the Houston Police Academy training track. The day started overcast, warm, and muggy, but no rain came down to confound the competitors. Mike Woodward and Gord Bard assisted with the technical inspections, making sure all the vintage iron was ready to face the rigors of the demanding track.

Seventeen Triumphs answered the call to defend the Tourist Trophy against 16 MGs. The TRs were represented by a TR3A, a TR3B, a pair of Spitfires, a Sports6 sedan, a gaggle of TR6s, a TR7, a pair of TR8s, and their ace in the hole, a race prepared TR3 trailered to the course (boo). The good guys came out with a 1934 MG PA, three MGAs, a pair of MGB GTs, and a bevy of Bs. A smattering of lesser marques also showed up to see if they could best the LBCs.

The Triumph club, who organized the event and set up the course, did a fine job of speeding up the action. The course layout was shorter than in previous years, which created time for more runs around the course. Though short, the layout had more higher speed curves, making it a difficult layout to master. Participants drove around the course during a familiarization lap, and then selected one of four heats in which to run. All contestants were allotted four runs of the track instead of three as in prior events.

The action started fast and furious in Heat One. Lee Drum, pushing his pretty 1957 MGA to the limit, had the fastest time of the day going (self-reported) until spinning out on the sharpest high-speed turn on the track. Attempting to recover, he generated some serious expensive sounding noises when he tried to move forward. He was eventually able to complete the course in reverse when he discovered the damage allowed him to back up slowly without mechanical interference. Back in the pits, the ace pit crew determined that a locked and seized brake drum had shattered the axle splines when he attempted to restart, guaranteeing both an extensive repair and a nomination for this year’s Broken Crankshaft award.

Our own Mike Woodward deserves special mention for his covert attempt to wrest the Tourist Trophy from the Triumph club. Mike owns both an MG and a Triumph, so on this occasion, he elected to drive his Spitfire. In an especially sporting gesture, he comfortably cruised his TR around the track four times, setting a leisurely pace that gave the MGs some needed breathing room. Well played, Mike!

And his efforts might have worked, too, had the Triumphists not had their own trick, a race prepared TR3 that set the four fastest times of the day. This enabled the Triumphs to eke out a narrow 0.931 sec victory. Mike graciously congratulated the TTR for retaining the trophy – this time. The fastest MG time was turned in by Peter Shaw, who guided his 1972 MGB to a 53.785 sec lap. See the accompanying article for a complete list of results.

An exciting time was had by all and be sure to put this event on your calendar for next year. It’s the most fun you will have in your car all year!

- Contributed by Scott Hardy

- Photos by Ed Eveson. Visit ManCaveArt on Facebook to see them all!

The Witch's Minions Where Out and About

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 21:49:11 GMT

The witch's minions where out and about this past Saturday night for the somewhat annual Witches Brew gimmick rallye. Tom and Jeanette Dooley put together a down right spooky affair as we hunted haunted clues through the local neighborhood. We all ended up at Mo's Irish Pub to tip back a pint and enjoy great company.

First Place: Bob & Kim Chalker

Second Place: David & Allison Fowler

Third place: Mike Craven & Larissa Bezouchko

Best Costume went to our very own pirate Sir David Fowler!

Attendance was a bit light but those who made the event had a great time. If you get the opportunity to do one of Tom & Jeanette's rallies in the future you don't want to miss it.

Southwestern Ohio MG Car Club Newsletter

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 15:15:28 GMT

The MG Car Club of Southwestern Ohio shared with us their most recent newsletter - The Octagon News. If you are interesteding in seeing what other car clubs are doing or just enjoy looking at beautiful MG's click HERE.

A Treasure Trove of Parts Just For You!

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 20:13:26 GMT

BREAKING NEWS! Following the October monthly meeting, club member Ray Holtzapple will be hosting a Parts Give-Away at his house. The Holtzapples are moving their homestead and Ray needs to get rid of a large collection of MG Parts of every model and kind. You can find this treasure trove at 2428 Brentwood Drive, Houston. (Easy access off Shepard onto Brentwood).

Flat Stanley's Travels

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 13:43:59 GMT

Flat Stanley has been seeing a bit of the world with the Nash's. Byron and Libby have taken Stanley from the tropics to Alaska and from what I understand he has enjoyed the travels.

Flat Stanley and Libby in Anigua, Guatemala. A splended time was had by all.

First stop on their Alaskan cruise - Vancouver, Canada

Whittier, Alaska the last stop on the cruise

If your travels take you some where fun, Flat Stanley and his friends would love to join you. You can pick one of them up at the Club's monthly meetings. It is a great way to share your adventures with us all.

Jim Goldmeyer Takes On The Thornley Challenge

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 13:22:12 GMT

At the September monthly meeting club member Jim Goldmeyer shared with us photos that he used to win honorable mention in last year's Thornley Challenge. The Thornley Challenge is a photo scavenger hunt hosted by the NAMGBR where participants are given a long list of locations, sites or scenes that they are to take a photo with their car, The NAMGBR's The Driver magazine and themselves in the frame along witht the assigned subject. Jim did a great job, with a bit of humor, sharing with us how he successfully captured the photos. He traveled across the southern U.S. visiting many unique sites and locations. In some cases he had to have a detailed plan to get the photo. In other cases, it was totally seredipitous, being in the right place at the right time. And yes, he received special dispensation to drive his Mini Cooper. I suspect this created a bit of consernation on the part of the NAMGBR team.

We love hearing from club members. If you have a story to share send us an email or catch Bob Chalker at one of our future events.

The Driver's Award Update

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 23:58:39 GMT

Wow, what a trip the Hardy's had to the NAMGBR Convention in Calgary!

Safety Fast Award Update

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 23:55:17 GMT

Kimber Spirit Award Update

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 23:30:26 GMT

Here is the latest Kimber Spirit Award update. Have a question about which events you've attended. Or maybe you think we have miscounted. I have also attached a link to a spreadsheet where you can see the entire list of events so that you can firm that you are getting the appropriate credit.

2023 HMGCC Meeting Attendance Points 082023.xlsx

MG Car Club Podcast

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 19:06:49 GMT

Are you a MG fanatic? Do you love learning about all things MG? Are you and Anglophile? Is history, or auto racing, or techology your thing? Maybe you are none of those but just enjoy a good story, then the MG Car Club Podcast is for you. I recently came across this treasure of all things MG while reading the latest edition of The MG Driver from NAMGBR. I have only listened to a few of them but the few I did listened to had me captivated. If you have a few minutes of downtime or drivetime take a listen you won't be disappointed.

https://www.mgpodcast.uk/

Battle of the Brits II: MG Reigns Triumphant!

Sun, 25 Jun 2023 19:24:34 GMT

The Second Annual Battle of the Brits Charity Fundraiser Golf Tournament took place on the immaculate grounds of the Jersey Meadow Golf Course on June 8. Both sides were tuned up for this event; being the Second Annual, the tournament this year was the foundation of a tradition of links warfare between the LBC car clubs of Houston. The event was organized by the very capable Vernon Jones.

Fifteen participants took place in this year’s tournament. The competition was highlighted by a rare hole-in-one on the 169 yard long 11th hole by the organizer, Vernon Jones. The Texas scramble format of the tournament ensured everyone was competitive and that all participants had a great time on the links.

In the end, it was the team from Abingdon that prevailed for the second year in a row. The MG-B team came up with the lowest score. In addition to his hole-in-one, Vernon Jones also collected the trophy for closest to the pin. The tournament collected $200 to be donated to the HMGCC charity of choice, Isaiah 117 House of Montgomery & Walker Counties.

Until next year, the coveted Claret Mug will remain with the Marque of Friendship, MG. And make sure you don’t miss this event the next time The Tradition Continues!

- contributed by Scott Hardy

- photos by Mike Woodward

Safety Fast Award Update

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 20:28:31 GMT

Driver's Award Update

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 20:26:15 GMT

Something tells me the Hardys may soon take the lead on this one unless someone else makes the trip to Calgary with them (there is still time to sign up). GO SCOTT & TRISH!

Kimber Spirit Award Update

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 20:15:35 GMT

The latest through the end of May. We have lot's of great events planned for the second half of the year. Come on out and join us!

We Are The Champions

Sun, 11 Jun 2023 01:43:41 GMT

This is a bit late but still worth noting…. The club took first place in the Cars, Toys and Tractors class of the Katy Rodeo Parade. The question is did they think we were driving cars or toys, definitely not tractors. Thank you to everyone who came out for the parade!

To see more photos from the day click HERE.

Singin' In The Rain, Just Singin' In The Rain

Tue, 23 May 2023 00:30:51 GMT

Well, I wasn't but the singer-songwriters at the Songwriter Serenade certainly were. The weather kept most people from making the trip but the Dawson's and Chalker's braved the weather. And yes, Kim and I drove the 72B. You'll have to ask Dwight what he drove.

Weather aside, we had a wonderful Saturday afternoon. It began by meeting at Buc-ees in Katy to fill up on coffee and goodies and then a two hour drive through the countryside. Yes, it rained most of the way. In fact, it was raining so hard that the competition had to be delayed while they moved everything to another building that didn't have a metal roof. The noise was deafening.

Once the show started the rain was quickly forgotten as the singers were incredibly talented and creative. How could you not enjoy songs with titles such as "Hold My Beer While I Break My Own Heart" or "Love Songs In Reverse" and "poncho Villa Rides Again." Although some of the songs were written to be funny others had a more serious message. The winner of the competition, Caitlin Cannon sang of her brother who had spent most of his life in prison for a foolish crime as a youth. While incarcerated he found the Lord and love. The music ranged from slow ballads to Mexican melodies to country and the Blues. There were fifteen performers and they hailed from across the country - Nashville, New York City, Denver, Montana, California, Minnesota and of course Houston and Austin. They kept us entertained throughout the afternoon. The organizers also had lunch available and a bar with beer and wine. The setting can't be beat as it is in the Texas Country side.

By mid afternoon the rain dried up and we had an uneventful ride home.

If the club does this event next year, you don't want to miss it. Where else can you see some of the country's top talent for $15.00.

2023 Keels & Wheels Honors a 100 years of MGs

Mon, 15 May 2023 14:49:25 GMT

The 2023 edition of the Keels & Wheels Concours D'Elegance honored the 100th anniversary of the MG Car company and our LBC's and the Houston MG Car Club was well represented. There were 17 MG's entered in the show including Carl Shelby's No. 13 and the Arnolt MG.

Alex Chaykowski took Best in Class Gold Trophy with his 1954 MG TF. Also receiving best in class honors were Rich Colwell's 1959 MGA Twin Cam and Dwight Dawson's 1973 MGB. Leland Drum's 1957 MGA received a Silver Trophy.

HMGCC award winners Rich Colwell, Dwight Dawson and Lee Drum, missing from the photo is Alex Chaykowski

Two very special MG's were on display, Carroll Shelby's first race car, a 1949 MG TC and an Arnolt MG.

Carroll's grandson, Aaron Shelby was on the show grounds sharing his knowledge and experiences with attendees. He took special interest in club member Paul Brownell's 1952 Allard J2.

Other Houston MG Car Club members who displayed there vehicles were Ken Evesson (two MGA's), John Bowyer (1946 MG TC), Charles Sill (1948 MG TC), Curtis Burton (1952 MG TD) and James Mc Whinnie (1960 MGA).

While at the Keels and wheels event we held our May monthly meeting with nearly 40 people in attendence. Roger Sykes, who is a long time volunteer for K&W's shared the story of the event and answered our many questions. Not only has Roger been a volunteer since the inception of K&W's he lived at the Lakewood Yacht Club for 26 years. His stories were fascinating. We also had two perspective new members join us.

Keels & Wheels is a one of the countries premiere Concours D'Ellegence and is held each year on the grounds of the Lakewood Yacht Club in Seabrook, TX. It is a one of a kind event as it combines the best of a world class car and boat show in setting that is unmatched.

Here are more photos from the day. Enjoy!

Club member Dwight Dawson receiving his Best in Class trophy

I couldn't resist this one, I learned to ski on these Cypress Garden Trainers

Kimber Spirit Award Update

Fri, 05 May 2023 22:55:38 GMT

Here is the latest, lot's of time and opportunity to gain points...

100 Years of MG

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 21:17:47 GMT

Since its creation in the early 1920’s, MG cars have been a favorite of sports car enthusiasts. The past one hundred years have seen a history filled with styles of MGs from touring to single-seater racing types.

Although the MG brand was shelved by British Leyland in 1980 when MGB production came to an end and the MGB was no longer imported to the US, the famous octagonal badge still exists in the England, and there is even a very well received electric version that is in great demand.

Morris Garages/MG Car Co. (1923 to 1935)

William Morris started building bicycles in Longwall Street, Birmingham. By 1911, Morris had turned his attention to motor cars and was selling and repairing various makes from the rebuilt premises, now renamed Morris Garages. In 1922 William Morris appointed his head salesman, a young Cecil Kimber, as general manager. The MG name, based on the initials of the garage, first appeared in 1923 on a Kimber bodied bull nosed Morris Cowley special in which Kimber won gold in the Land’s End Trial. Although this winning car is claimed to be the prototype MG, the model recognized today as the first ever MG, or Old Number One, is a preserved pointed-tail two-seater.

In 1930, the year MG went racing, the MG Car Company Ltd was incorporated. Although William Morris personally owned the company, he eventually sold his holdings in MG to Morris Motors in 1935, the lead company in the Morris Organization.

Morris Motors Ltd (1935 to 1952)

The MG Car Company had produced a string of successful models that included several Midgets, K-Type Magnette plus the L and M-Type Magna. One of the first models to be built after MG came under the control of Morris Motors was the 1936 TA Midget, the first of the company’s T-Series sports cars. The saloons, as the British called the family cars were produced included the SA, VA and WA models.

During WWII, MG auto production was shifted to tanks and airplane wings. At the end of the war, the now famous MG TC started production. The returning GIs brought back this model and it started a revolution and is many times accredited as “The Sports Car America First Loved”. In 1950 the MG TD and the four passenger YA and YT were imported, and a US dealership organization was formed.

British Motor Corporation (1952 to 1968)

In 1953 the TF and TF 1500 were introduced and in 1956 the streamlined MGA, with a new 1500 cc engine, was produced. The MGA sold over 100,0000 cars until it was replaced by the MGB in 1962. The MGB GT was added to the model line in 1965. During the period from 1954 to 1958, the ZA/ZB Magnette, the first model constructed with an all welded unit body, became the vanguard of a stream of post war MG saloons. Some shared body styles with other marques.

British Leyland (1968 to 1986)

Consolidation of the British motor industry resulted in the merger of Leyland Motors and BMC under the British Leyland banner. The MGB soldiered on and saw a brief burst of rejuvenation when the MGB GT V8 was produced from 1973 to 1976. Sadly, this high-performance model was never exported and its introduction coincided with an energy crises. On October 22, 1980, now known as Black Friday, British Leyland closed the famed Abingdon MG plant, a move that would result with the MG Car Company name as we knew it finally being consigned to the history books.

After the closing of the factory at Abingdon, there have been several successors to the MG name. Rover for several years tried to revive the marque with the MG RV8 in the 1990s and the mid-engine MG TF at the end of the decade. More recently, the MG is being produced in England but unfortunately not for the US market. The MG brand today is Chinese owned, but is alive, selling well, bringing out an electric sports car, and has a fantastic following throughout the world.

- contributed by Ray Holtzapple

Inside the Octagon movies now available!!

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 04:46:27 GMT

For Immediate Release

March 21, 2023

Inside the Octagon: MG Documentary Films Archived for Educational Research at Revs Institute®

Inside the Octagon and Inside the Octagon 2, the definitive MG history documentary films, are now included in the prestigious archives of Revs Institute® in Naples, Florida. Retired Houston filmmaker Gary Watson donated his two films to the institute in March 2023 to ensure their long-term preservation and accessibility for automotive-history research.

Watson produced Inside the Octagon in 1995 and Inside the Octagon 2 in 2008. Both films have been highly praised throughout the MG community for bringing the story of the classic British sportscar to life through wide-ranging interviews with key MG personalities. This informative, entertaining oral history of the company includes many colorful reminiscences, including those of John Thornley, former MG general manager, and Jean Kimber Cook, daughter of MG founder Cecil Kimber.

“Those who sat for filmed interviews entrusted their stories to me and the film,” Watson said. “It is incumbent on me to ensure that those stories are not lost. Revs Institute’s archive and library are a fitting permanent home for these films and related materials.”

Revs Institute is dedicated to the study and celebration of the automobile. It exists to foster a new level of understanding of the automobile, not only as a technological device, but as an agent for social and economic change worthy to be considered among the masterpieces of human creativity. Housed in the museum is a collection of over 100 historical, exceptional automobiles that meet rigorous standards for importance, rarity and technical, aesthetic, or social significance. Revs Institute also has an extensive archive and library of books, periodicals, photos, film, ephemera, brochures, advertisements, primary source materials, and multilingual technical publications. The library is available as a resource for those interested in automotive history. Revs Institute is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization, housed in 80,000 square feet, purpose-built facility.

Watson’s donation of Inside the Octagon and Inside the Octagon 2 comprises production materials that trace the story of the MG Car Company from its origins in the 1920s to the end of production in 1980. The donation includes original film elements, original audio recordings, master film prints, videotapes, video files, still photos, research material, scripts, and correspondence between Watson and the participants in the film. Revs Institute will store the materials for the short term in a climate-controlled space and will then incorporate them into its yearly plan for processing by archivists.

“The inclusion of Inside the Octagon in the Revs Institute archives is the culmination of a decades-long journey for me,” said Watson. “It fulfills my goal to assure MG enthusiasts that this accurate historical record of an iconic, beloved sportscar is preserved and that these films themselves are now a part of that extraordinary history.”

-30-

Contact: Gary Watson Revs Institute Inc.

gary@gwatson4x5.com 2500 Horseshoe Drive S.

Naples, Florida 34104

https://revsinstitute.org

Kimber Spirit Award Update

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 20:19:27 GMT

Driver's Award Update

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 20:18:53 GMT

Safety Fast Award Update

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 20:10:57 GMT

TXMGR Spring GoF !!!

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 22:52:26 GMT

We received this letter from Heather Marsh & Russell Read who are the coordinators for the TX MG Registry Spring GoF (Gathering of the Faithful)...

Greetings from your Spring GoF hosts Heather and Russell. This will be in your next issue of BACKROADs, but if you want to print it out - see attached! A formal schedule will be forthcoming, but see below for a snapshot.

Thursday Night (April 27th): Caravan to the Spare Birdie Public House. Pay your own way… and get ready to play darts, have fun with a huge variety of video games…and oh yeah…eat and drink! Visit sparebirdie.com for an online preview.

Friday Late Morning-Early Afternoon (April 28th): Caravan to Perissos Winery. Visit perissosvineyards.com for an online preview.

Friday Late Afternoon (April 28th): The Terrific TMGR TECH TEAM will host a session at the host hotel!

Friday (April 28th) Evening: Pizza in the hotel parking lot. First Come- First Served!

Saturday (April 29th) start the day with some spit and polish and get ready for the car show!

And of course, Saturday will include a fun drive, and end with the TMGRs Spring GoF banquet.

Sunday will feature a lot of hugs in the hotel lobby as TMGR-ers say goodbye to friends, and promise to meet up sometime over the summer for fun drives.

AND click below for the online reservation to the host hotel - rooms $149 with breakfast.

Texas MG Register Group Block II | April 2023

Rooms = $149 with breakfast.

REGISTRATION FORM: 2023 TXMGR Spring GoF REG FORM.pdf

SAFETY FAST and Happy 100th birthday to the MG MARQUEE! Heather Marsh and Russell Read / TMGR Volunteers

Everyone Loves A Parade

Tue, 21 Feb 2023 22:40:19 GMT

Photos by Lesley & Gavin Kidd, Bob Chalker

On Saturday the club was represented in the Katy Livestock and Rodeo parade, a two mile affair through the heart of the city. The weather was a bit nippy to start but everyone bundled up and had their cowboy hats firmly on their heads. Soon the day warmed up a bit and everyone had a great time. We had 10 cars with a mix of MGB's and MGA's and we took in a stray Triumph. The streets were filled with spectators and our cars were a hit. Maybe it was all the candy we threw to the little ones. We were pleasantly surprised later in the day when we learned that the club was awarded first place in the class of Cars, Trucks, Tractors & Toys. Gee, I wonder if they thought we were driving cars or toys? Next year we will need to up our game, maybe we will add decorations and choreographed maneuvers down the parade route.

Enjoy the photos below.....

A Visit To Bumbera's

Tue, 21 Feb 2023 21:08:53 GMT

It is hard to believe that February is almost over and that it is 80 degrees outside. Perfect weather for top down driving. Well maybe not so perfect on Wednesday when approximately 20 club members travelled to Sealy for a tour of the Bumbera's Performance shop. We were warmly greeted by their youngest daughter Kendall who led the tour. We had a special treat when family patriarch Kenny joined us to share several entertaining stories. The Bumbera's had a mix of classic restorations, hot rods and racing cars in the shop. As they tell it, they restore and build customer's cars by day and prepare their racing machines by night. It was great to see the mix of vehicles in various states of restoration and build. And we all enjoyed the company of the shop's dog Sarge.

Following the tour we headed to the Wolf Pack Bar & Grill downtown Sealy to break bread and swap stories.

Kendall Bumbera touring us around the shop

Kenny Bumbera sharing one of his many stories

Sarge greeted us at the door

Could It Be Coming Soon…

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 23:36:08 GMT

… Probably not to the U.S. but we can dream. Click HERE to catch up on the MG Cyberster which is forecasted to go on sale beginning in April in the Europe and China.

2023 Driver Awards Update

Sun, 05 Feb 2023 18:44:51 GMT

Here is the latest through the end of January....

Proposed Route to MG 2023 in Calgary

Tue, 17 Jan 2023 16:48:48 GMT

For those considering doing the long drive to Calgary, Alberta, Canada for MG 2023, I have now completed planning for the route from Texas to Calgary. While this is still preliminary and subject to change, I expect the route we take will be pretty close to what is presented below. If you are interested in joining us, please contact me as soon as possible. We will have to finalize the route as soon as we can so that we can make reservations at hotels and other places, like Yellowstone and Going to the Sun Road.

I have shown pdfs of the daily drives. Some of the drives cannot currently be shown in Google Maps because of winter road closures, so I have marked those by hand. This drive to Calgary will take ten days and cover approximately 2,600 miles plus whatever you drive on Day 1 to get to the meeting point in the Texas panhandle.

General rules of the road: We will have breakfast eaten and be ready to leave by 8:00 am each day and will arrive at our destination by 5:00 pm. The mileage shown is for each segment of the planned route, as is the driving time. We will avoid interstate highways where it is possible and reasonable to do so. We will make frequent stops for pictures, bio breaks, food and interesting roadside attractions. All of the roads will be paved, and we will be flexible for route corrections if needed.

Day One - Thursday, July 6: Drive to Hotel Turkey, Turkey, TX Approximately an 8 hr drive from Houston

Meet at the Hotel Turkey, home of Western Swing music, for dinner. If more than four cars participate, we will need to switch to a meeting destination near Lubbock. I am open for suggestions on this as long as we meet in this general area.

Day Two - Friday, July 7: Turkey, TX to Trinidad, CO 338 miles, 5 hr 50 min, time zone change to MDT

We will plan a morning stop at the Cadillac Ranch near Amarillo. Not a whole lot else to see, so we'll just have a leisurely travel day with plenty of rest stops to get used to being on the road. With the time change we will get in early.

Day Three - Saturday, July 8: Trinidad, CO to Georgetown, CO 298 mi, 6 hr 20 min

First day of scenic drives in the Rocky Mountains. Leaving Trinidad we will take the Highway of Legends Byway over our first mountain passes on the way to Walsenberg, CO. We end the day taking the Guanella Pass Scenic Byway over an 11,669 ft pass. An alternative to Guanella would be to drive through Breckenridge and crest the Loveland Pass on Route 6.

Day Four - Sunday, July 9: Georgetown, CO to Cheyenne, WY 228 miles, 5 hr 50 min

A full day of scenic drives in the Rocky Mountains. Leaving Georgetown we head for scenic Hwy 40 which passes Winter Park ski area on the way to Granby. From Granby we head into the Rock Mountain National Park and take the Trail Ridge Road Hwy 34 through the park. One of the highest continuous paved roads in the US, the high point is 12,183 ft above sea level. The road ends in Estes Park, and we will continue through the eastern slopes and catch part of the Cache La Poudre Scenic Byway before heading into the plains and onto Cheyenne.

Day Five - Monday, July 10: Cheyenne, WY to State Game Lodge, Custer Park, SD 299 miles, 5 hr 50 min

A lot of open plains to cover before we hit the scenic roads of the Black Hills. Possible stops include Wind Cave National Park or the Crazy Horse Memorial. We will end with the amazing Needles Highway before stopping at the State Game Lodge in Custer State Park for the evening.

Day Six - Tuesday, July 11: Custer State Park to Gillette, WY 249 miles, 5 hr 35 min

Our day begins with a drive to Mt. Rushmore on Iron Mountain Road, which features unique views of the monument framed through tunnels on the road. After Mt. Rushmore, we drive the fabulouse roads of the Black Hills through the towns of Deadwood and Spearfish on our way to Devil's Tower National Monument. From there we head on to our destination in Gillette, WY.

Day Seven - Wednesday, July 12: Gillette, WY to Cooke City, MT 342 miles, 6 hr 40 min

A lot of driving, but the great plains are broken up by a scenic highway through the Bighorn National Forest and the day ends with a drive on the glorious Beartooth Highway, cresting at 10,947 ft in the mountains east of Yellowstone.

Day Eight - Thursday, July 13: Cooke City, MT to Bozeman, MT 134 miles, 2 hr 50 min plus Yellowstone Loop

We start this day driving through the bison populated plains along the East Yellowstone entrance. We will do a loop through the grandfather of our National Parks that will take us past Yellowstone Falls, Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring and Mammoth Hot Springs, and will spend as much of our six hours or so in the park seeing as much as we can. We end the day in the college town of Bozeman.

Day Nine - Friday, July 4: Bozeman, MT to Whitefish, MT 317 mi, 5 hr 40 min

We get to enjoy a lot of scenic Montana on our way to Whitefish. Plenty of empty roads, trees, large valleys and mountain passes. We end the day in the resort town of Whitefish.

Day Ten - Saturday, July 15: Whitefish, MT to Deerfoot Inn and Casino, Calgary 279 miles, 5 hr 40 mins

Our last day on the road starts with driving through Glacier National Park and the incomparable Going to the Sun Road cresting Logan Pass (small cars only). We will cross the border at the Chief Mountain crossing and stop at Waterton National Park in Canada. From there, we will travel north through the foothills on our way to our destination hotel in Calgary.

Sunday, July 16 Stampede Grounds, Calgary: The closing day of the Calgary Stampede! Gates for the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth open at 9:00 and the show closes with fireworks at 11:00 pm. We can catch both the Rodeo Finals in the afternoon and the Chuckwagon Finals in the evening if we buy our tickets early.

Monday, July 17: Registration for NAMGBR is open until 5:00 pm, so we can spend the day driving through the foothills, Highwood Pass, Kananaskis Provincial Park, and Banff National Park if anyone is interested.

I will work on the return route and hope to have something by the end of the month. In the meantime, register for the MG2023 and reserve the hotel in Calgary. Remember to add the Saturday night July 15. And make sure to register to see the tour of the Phillips car collection on Tuesday, July 18, it is great!

- Scott Hardy

Spring GoF Save the Date

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 03:02:16 GMT

Save the date for the Spring 2023 Gathering of the Faithful. The TMGR has announced that the event will be held April 27-30th in Cedar Park, TX. Cedar Park is an easy drive from Houston and with it's convenient location to Austin and the Hill Country there will be plenty of fun for all.

The host hotel will be the Hyatt Regency - Cedar Park and the organizers have made arrangements for discounted hotel rooms. Here is a link to make your reservations or you can call the hotel directly (512) 337-3001. Tell them you are with the Texas MG Register. But book soon as the rooms will go fast.

Stay tuned for more to come on this year's Spring GoF.

NAMGBR & NAMGAR

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 15:18:06 GMT

Greetings all,

The Houston MG Car Club is an affiliate member of the North American MGB Register and the North American MGA Register. Because of this relationship we get several benefits including the ability to secure insurance for the club and our events at no cost to us. We also have the opportunity to vote on the officers of the NAMGBR.

But to have this benefit there is a requirement for us to know which members of the Houston MG Car Club are also members of the Registers. We are asking that everyone who is a member of one or both Registers to provide us with your respective membership numbers for each of the registers. This is easy to do. Simply go to your profile page on the Houston MG Car Club website and enter them. The field is near the bottom of the page, below where you enter your vehicle information.

And if you are a member of one of the Registers but not a member of Houston MG Car Club, we would love to have you become a member. Simply click on “Join Us” above.

Thank you in advance for your timely response to this request.

Houston MG Car Club Board of Directors

Woo-Hoo to our 2023 Award Winners

Sat, 10 Dec 2022 20:54:53 GMT

During the Club's Christmas party on December 3rd president Mike Woodward, board chair Ron Redding and incoming president Bob Chalker announced the 2022 award winners:

President's Award

Greg Fleischer

Board of Director's Award:

Fran and Glenn Carpenter

Back Seat Driver's Award

Angie Bard

Ralph Diebert Award:

Rich Colwell, 1959 MGA Twin Cam

Alan Rayne Memorial Award

The Broken Crankshaft

Larry Lovins

MG Driver Award

Most miles in an MG

Roger Sykes

Kimber Spirit Award

Most events in any car

Mike Woodward

Safety Fast Award

Most events in an MG

Gordan Bard

Presidential Recognition Award

Mike Woodward

500 Mile Club

Roger Sykes

Rob Ficalora

Bob Chalker

Scott Hardy

Rich Colwell

Ralph Ratta

Ken Evesson

Gary Myers

Alex Laverock

Bill Sysman

Ron Redding

Dwight Dawson

Gordan Bard

Joe Schrodi

MG 2023 Caravan from Texas

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 17:49:36 GMT

Registration is now open for NAMGBR’s MG 2023, “MGs in the Foothills”, to take place in Calgary, Alberta, Canada July 17-20, 2023. The event will be held just after the world-famous Calgary Stampede closes on Sunday, July 16. The link for registration is https://mg2023.regfox.com/calgary.

Scott and Trish Hardy, current members of the Houston MG Car Club, lived in Calgary for over 25 years before moving to Texas. In fact, we are in the blue MG pictured in the promotional photograph for the event!

Scott and Trish would like to invite any HMGCC members who want to visit one of the most beautiful areas of North America to join them on the journey. The goal is to drive mostly MG friendly roads and visit many attractions on the way there and back.

The general outline of our plan is to leave from a meeting place in Texas sometime between July 5 - 7 and arrive in Calgary Saturday, July 15. The route north will take us through New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming and Montana. These dates allow time for a scenic drive, stops at many attractions en route, and enable us to catch the final day of Stampede on Sunday, July 16. We will also offer a drive through the foothills of the Canadian Rockies on Monday before registration opens.

We would depart on Friday, July 21 to return to Texas via an entirely different route going through Utah and Arizona, again stopping to see attractions on the way. Return to Texas would be the weekend of July 29 - 30. Trish and I will not lead this section of the trip, though we will organize it, because we will be staying in Calgary for our son's wedding early in August.

We will be publicizing this drive with all the MG clubs in Texas to try and generate interest in the trip. There are practical limits to the number of participants, but we will face that issue if it arises. And we will welcome input on timing, routing and attractions from anyone who is seriously interested.

At this point we are in the early planning stages of the trip, but we would like to get a rough idea how many ~~crazy~~ dedicated MG people would consider joining us. Please contact Scott at scott.b.hardy@gmail.com for any questions or to express interest. Further information will be sent out as our plans take shape.

A Wild Affair - Updated

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 16:04:30 GMT

UPDATE: The TMGR has posted photos from the event. To see and download the photos go to www.imagemaker.cc. Once there Click on "Cars" button and scroll down to the bottom of the page and select the event. Once the page opens click on the words "Dave Nelson Photos".

The Fall Gathering of the Faithful (GoF) was held November 3-6th in Clifton Texas and it was a wild affair. No, not that kind of wild, it was held at the Texas Safari Exotic Animal Ranch. The Houston MG Car Club was well represented by the Bowers, Carpenters, Chalkers, Crows, Hardys, Schrodis, Sessions and Roger Sykes. One of the highlights of the weekend was seeing Steve Sessions MGB back on the road after a thorough restoration.

By the way, did you know that Clifton has been officially recognized by the Texas Legislature as the Norwegian capital of Texas. Clifton and the surrounding area was settled by Norwegian immigrants in the mid-19th century. To this day they are proudly Norwegian and the town has more than its share of trolls to prove it.

Knowing that we were in town one of the local's put their pride and joys on display along the roadside. If you are looking for a new addition to your stable it looks like at least one of them is for sale.

The weekend began with a wine and cheese party held at Valley Mills Vineyards on Thursday evening. Attendance was great and everyone was happy to be back together again.

Each morning Kim and I had breakfast at a wonderful cafe and soda fountain in town. The food was great and the company even better.

Friday was the busiest days we have experienced at a GoF. It began with a road rally on the beautiful country roads between Clifton and Glen Rose. These towns sit near where Texas transitions from the green climate of the southeast to the more arid in central Texas. As the route meandered we moved back and forth between the different environments. Along the route we passed St. Olaf Kirke church, or more commonly known as the Rock Church. It is located just outside of Cranfills Gap a community often referred to as Norse. The church was built in 1886 and served the local Lutheran community.

The rally ended in Glen Rose before noon allowing us to spend some time walking around the town and enjoying lunch. There was a second rally planned for the afternoon but Kim and I took a more direct route home so that we could spend more time exploring the Rock Church and I would be back to Clifton in time to attend the tech session on carburetors.

One more fun fact, just outside of Glen Rose they discovered dinosaur tracks. Although we did not have time this trip, I hope we will get back to Dinosaur Valley State Park to see the tracks for ourselves.

Following the tech session, the ladies attended the 1st (and hopefully annual) ladies tea at the Bosque Arts Museum. Peggy Schrodi was co-organizer of the event and by all accounts it was a tremendous success. While Kim enjoyed the tea, I spent time cleaning the many bugs off the front of the car getting it ready for the car show the next day.

Next up was a pizza party held in an old western town on the ranch. Well maybe it wasn't so old and probably nota real town but it made for a great venue. Getting to the town allowed us to drive across the ranch's property and to get up close and friendly with the many exotic animals on site. We had fun meeting new people and reconnecting with old friends.

Saturday began with the car show, there was a funkana in the afternoon and it ended with the traditional awards banquet. Once again Houston was well represented claiming several awards:

Roger Sykes, Octagon of Honor with his 1974 MGB GT
Glen & Fran Carpenter, Vintage class 1st place with their 1934 PA
Bill & Sally Bowers, Special class 1st place,1974 MGB GT V6 conversion
Bob & Kim Chalker, MGB Chrome Bumper, 4th place, 1972 MGB.

In addition Peggy Schrodi was given special recognition for her outstanding work in organizing the ladies tea. Scot and Trish Hardy won the funkana and Kim and I were pleasantly surprised to learn that we won the morning road rally. I have always said that Kim is one of the world's best navigators!

If you haven't attended a GoF you really should make a point to do so soon. MG is known as the marque of friendship, the Gof's make an exclamation point on this statement.

2023 Club Officers

Tue, 06 Dec 2022 21:22:48 GMT

On Saturday club president Mike Woodward announced the 2023 officers and board of directors. They are as follows:

President: Bob Chalker

Vice president: Candy Dawson

Secretary: Roald Lokken

Treasurer: Greg Fleischer

Board of Directors:

Ken Evesson

Bob Schroeder

Steve Sessions

Gordon Smith

Mike Woodward

Congratulations to Bob, Candy, Ken and Mike on being newly elected into their role.

In addition to the elected positions the following appointments were announced:

Webmaster: Rob Ficalora

Asst Webmaster: Bob Chalker

Regalia: Alex Laverock

Event Coord: Larry Lovins

ROARS Editor: Scott Hardy

Membership: Rob Ficalora

A BIG, I mean really BIG THANK YOU to all who serve the club. We so very much appreciate their time and energy that you invest in the organization.

2023 Driver Awards Standings

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 17:02:53 GMT

As always thanks to Greg for keeping up with these.

2023 Kimber Spirit Award Standings

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 17:01:11 GMT

As always thanks to Tony for keeping upi with this.

Final Kimber Spirit Award Standings 2022

Sun, 04 Dec 2022 12:06:12 GMT

As always thank to Tony for all hjis hard work on this.

Final Safety Fast Standings 2022

Sun, 04 Dec 2022 12:04:30 GMT

Thanks to Greg for his hard work on this.

Final Driver Award Standings For 2022

Sun, 04 Dec 2022 11:58:15 GMT

As always thank to Greg for his hard work keeping up with this.

Battle of the Brits Vol. III

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 22:19:19 GMT

The morning of October 29 dawned grey and murky, the last vestiges of summer having blown out the day prior. The warriors grimly awoke in the gloom of pre-dawn, knowing they were to face their toughest battle. Yes, the day of the autumn Autocross had arrived, and the Triumphs were waiting to defend their trophy against the heroic onslaught of the Abingdon gang, Houston division.

As our troops converged on the Houston Police Academy training track, the puddles from the rain on Saturday were drying, but a heavy cloud layer still threatened showers and the temperatures made several combatants regret that they had disconnected their weak British heaters. Slowly the battalion assembled, and it looked like the call to arms had been heard wide and far. Twenty-one assorted MGs gathered to face off against seventeen Triumphs, who were sitting smug with their slab sides and looking down their Michelotti noses.

Our troops were led by Brigadier Glen Carpenter in his trusty 1934 MG PA, the most veteran charger in the field. Also joining the fray were a trio of MGAs, matched by a trio of MGB/GTs, and supported by a battalion of Bs. We faced off against a raggedy lot including a TR3A, a TR3B, a TR7, a TR8, four Spitfires, and a passel of TR6s.

Wing Commander Michael Woodward gamely inspected the steeds to ensure that they were ready to face the rigors of the day. The rigorous technical inspection let to many a boot being emptied on the spot.

A parade lap was held to familiarize the troops with the field of battle. At almost a mile in length, the troops would face a gauntlet of 50 gates in order to complete the course. It was a challenging layout, the longest one yet laid out by the field marshals.

The battle commenced as the first of five heats got underway. Each car was allowed three runs around the course, and the air was soon filled with the bark of hot exhaust and the protest of tires being pushed past their limits. The scent of burning brakes and tortured rubber wafted over the field. The competitors watched and waited their turns as adrenaline surged through their veins.

Early on, Team Abingdon suffered a major casualty as the gold MGB/GT belonging to Lieutenant Larry Lovins suffered “the worst that can happen” and had to be carried off the field to a hospital by ambulance. Fortunately, his was the only serious injury and the rest of the team’s steeds endured only minor cuts and bruises.

Several feats of glory stood out amongst the fray. Early in Heat One, Corporal Scott Hardy set a blistering time of 110.013, which stood up for most of the day. The faithful PA of Brigadier Carpenter went the full measure, standing up to the rigors of six demanding laps. And in the last heat of the day, Sergeant Robert Nelson pushed his white MGB to an outstanding 109.974, earning his place in the pantheon of heroes!

Alas, our efforts were in vain, as the dastardly Triumphs reigned, well, triumphant on this day, claiming both the fastest individual time of the day and the fastest average individual time. But we got them where it really counts, taking home the team spirit award by having more troops on the ground!

Our thanks to the TTR for another outstanding event, and be sure to put this event on your calendar for next year. It’s the most fun you will have in your car all year!

- Contributed by Scott Hardy
- Photos by Ed Eveson. Visit ManCaveArt on Facebook to see them all!

Houston All British Car Day

Sat, 12 Nov 2022 22:42:38 GMT

The 32nd Annual Houston All British Car Day was held October 8th at the Butler House in Spring, TX. The weather could not have been more perfect, the Butler House was an amazing host, the cars beautiful and plentiful. A great time was had by all. A BIG THANK YOU to Alex Laverock for organizing this year's event. He did an amazing job. Thank YOU to everyone who volunteered and made this year’s event a success.

The award winners are listed on the AWARDS WINNERS page.

Oh yea, and we have already booked the Butler House for next year. Stay tuned to The ROARS for the 2023 event announcements. In the meantime enjoy reminscing through the photos from this year's event.

2022 Fall Autocross.

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 00:09:18 GMT

For those of you that missed the fall Autocross you missed out on a great event. There were 42 drivers present. 24 from HMGCC and 18 from TTR. The results are shown below :

A Long Way Home

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 17:49:38 GMT

Bear with me as this is a story that covers more than 2 years, or possibly decades. In February of 2020 we were contacted through the club’s email by Paul, a gentleman in Aberdeeneshire, Scotland who is a car enthusiast. He had received a box of parts and found within them two grill badges from our very own Houston MG Car Club. As an enthusiast he knew the value of helping the badges find their way back home to the club they represent.

Paul shared with us that the parts came from an older gentleman’s collection that was stored in a shed owned by one of Paul’s co-workers. They became available when the prior owner passed away a few years back. As a fun fact, the shed is located in Ballater which is very close to the Balmoral Estate where Queen Elizbeth stayed when she was in Scotland.

Recognizing how great it would be to have these in our possession I immediately reached out to Paul thanking him for contacting us and expressing our interest to have them returned to the club. Then the fury of the COVID pandemic hit. In addition, Paul works offshore, interesting enough for a Houston based oil & gas company, and we both had issues with emails being lost in our spam folders. With all these disruptions it took more than two years before we made the proper arrangements to have the badges returned but they are safely in the archives of the club.

I am pleased to report that one of the badges is being put to good use. It is the centerpiece on our newest club award trophy – The Kimber Spirit Award.

The Kimber Spirit Award recognized the club member family who attends the most club sanctioned events each year. You can learn more about this and our other awards on the ABOUT page of our website.

The second grill badge is also interesting, stay tuned to learn more about it in a future post….

Awards Standings

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 16:11:59 GMT

Fluid Therapy

Tue, 06 Sep 2022 15:23:17 GMT

The September monthly meeting was held at the Butler House (home of the 2022 Houston All British Car Day) with a great turnout of members and friends. We had the porch area all to ourselves, the burgers where hot and the beer was cold.

You may have heard of aroma therapy, well Ron Redding and Mike Woodward presented on fluid therapy for our LBC's. Their recommendations for the fluids to be used on our cars are:

Engine Oil - Castrol GTX 20W50 Classic
Gearbox - MGT's 80/90 weight gear oil; MGA & MGB's Castrol GTX 20W50
Rear Axle - 90 weight gear oil
Front Suspension - Multi-purpose lithium grease
Propeller Shaft - multi-purpose lithium grease
Steering Rack - white lithium grease
Brake & Clutch reservoir - Dot 3 or 4; or upgrade to Dot 5, but requires a complete flush and brake system renewal. Do not mix Dot 5 with Dot 3 or 4.
Gasoline - use an additive for long term storage - Stabil
Coolant - 1 part coolant & 2 part water for best performance or 50/50 premixed coolant to make it easy. Also recommend using a super coolant such as Rislone's Hy-per Cool. Will lower the temperature by 10 degrees.
Carburetor dampers - SU's Zenith Damper Oil or 20 weight oil. For older carbs 30 weight oil. non-detergent.

And after a hard day of renewing your cars fluids top it off with a cold beer of your choice.

Award Standings.

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 21:48:52 GMT

Our thanks as always to Greg for keeping up with these:

Kimber Spirit Standings

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 21:16:24 GMT

As always, many thanks to Tony Galt for all his work on this report:

GoF FAQ’s

Sat, 27 Aug 2022 15:29:56 GMT

Details of this fall’s Gathering of the Faithful are slowly being released. The event will be held November 3-6th in and around the small town of Clifton, TX.

The format is similar to what we have experienced in the past beginning with a reception at Valley Mills Vineyards on Thursday Night. Friday afternoon will find us at the Bosque Arts Center for a British Tea and private showing of the art museum hosted by our own Peggy Schrodi and friends. Friday night will be a pizza & dance party at the Safari Ranch. The car show will be held on Saturday with great lunch options. The weekend wraps up with the Saturday evening Awards Banquet.

You can find the registration form in the September BACKROADS.

The TMGR has posted room booking options on their website. Note that it doesn’t appear that there will be a host hotel, but there are several different options for housing including several very nice locations on AirBnB.

Looking forward to seeing a strong showing from Houston at this year’s GoF!

Kimber Spirit Award Standing

Sun, 21 Aug 2022 14:23:41 GMT

As always many thanks to Tony Galt for all his hard work putting this together.

Safety fast!

Mike.

Texas All British Car Days

Tue, 16 Aug 2022 12:42:50 GMT

Per the request of the organizers the following is the latest on the Texas All British Car Days....

31 Years of the Largest British Car Show in Texas!

The 31st Texas All British Car Days will be held Friday, Saturday and Sunday September 23, 24 & 25, 2022.

Save the date and join us at the All British Car Show you love!

Online registration and mail in registration will be open soon.

We're planning an exceptional show this year celebrating our 31st year!

TXABCD is the largest gathering of British cars in Texas and a great place to see the cars you grew up with like Triumph, MG and Mini and to see exotic British cars you may not have seen before like Jaguar, Aston Martin, Bentley, Morgan Rolls Royce and more.

The Sunday show will again be at Centennial Plaza in Round Rock. This is a very nice plaza which will make our show a lot of fun.

Please plan to join us for the last weekend of September. See you there!

Hotel Information

Discounted rates are available using the link below.

Hotel Contact Information

Homewood Suites
2201 S. Mays St
Round Rock, TX 78664
512-341-9200

The hotel is just a 5 minute drive from Centennial Plaza, where the show will be held on Sunday. Click the link below for more information and our discounted rates or to make a reservation.

Reserve a Hotel Room

Click here to reserve a room.

Tentative TXABCD Show Weekend Schedule

Note that this is TENTATIVE and may change!

A more detailed schedule is avalable on the Schedule tab at www.txabcd.org.

Friday - Sept 23

Meet and Greet at The Brass Tap in Round Rock.

Saturday - Sept 24

Mid Day - Registration and hospitality suite.

Afternoon - Rallye, details to be announced. Ending in Salado.

Evening - On your own to meet with friends after the rallye in Salado.

Sunday - Sept 25

The big car show at Centennial Plaza in Round Rock!

Volunteering

This is a big job and we're always in need of help! If you have some time to contribute we have jobs that can be done before the show and jobs that we need help with the day of the show. If you are interested in helping out in any way, please email info@txabcd.org.

Thanks!

The Latest Driver Award Standings

Sat, 30 Jul 2022 14:41:16 GMT

British V8 2.022 Wytheville

Thu, 28 Jul 2022 16:50:55 GMT

This article and photographs were contributed by club member Rob Ficalora, who we thank for the interesting story.

I’ve never written an article for the ROARS, but I’ve decided it’s time that I start – for two reasons. First, to share a little about a great group of British car enthusiasts and our semi-annual gatherings, and second, to share how much fun I had making the trip this year with my older son, Andrew. I hope it will inspire some of you to do similar vacation trips with your family and/or friends.

It would probably make sense to tell you a little about what the British V8 is - or maybe more accurately, what it is not. The British V8 is not a club. There are no dues and no car shows or trophies. Rather, it’s just a group who like to enhance and drive their British cars. The name itself, British V8, is even a misnomer. While it is true that most of the participants have V8 converted MGB’s or other British cars and the group does cater to that community, they also welcome anyone and everyone - no matter how many cylinders their car may have. We regularly have participants with just about every power plant imaginable - including stock MG motors (this year there were two participants sporting their MGB’s with OEM 1800 cc motors). We also regularly have participants in non-British daily drivers just to enjoy the camaraderie and often to learn for a potential project of their own.

The meets are planned and hosted by volunteers from the group. They usually hold the meet near their homes to make their planning and coordination easier so the location of our meets changes every year. This year, it was in Wytheville, VA. Wytheville is such a great venue with beautiful scenery, cooler temperatures due to the altitude, and some amazing driving roads with twists, turns, and elevation changes, that this was our second meet here (hence the “2.0” in the logo). The meets are always characterized by driving events and tech sessions and often include visiting local attractions, which range from automotive related, like visiting vehicle museums and private auto collections, to simply interesting, like riding a steam locomotive once used in coal mining.

Our adventure this year started with my older son, Andrew, and I heading out for Virginia at 7:30 pm on a Friday with both of our V8 MGB’s - his running worse than it had since we completed the engine swap just a few months earlier. Actually, it was running fine; it was just getting progressively harder to start. But he had sacrificed most weekends and worked on it diligently for the better part of a year and I didn’t want to disappoint him, so believing we could fix it once we figured out what was going on, we headed out that evening.

We only made it 32 miles to Trinity, TX before it died coming to a stop and wouldn’t restart. We worked on it for a couple of hours before we got it running and did the same a couple of hours later when we stopped for gas. We finally rolled into our planned stop for the night (Shreveport , LA) at 3:45am; we should have been there by 11:30pm! We were plagued by that pattern of the car not wanting to start, but running fine once it did start for the rest of the trip to Virginia. But we figured out a pattern that made restarting it easier – even if it didn’t make sense at the time and it suggested a more catastrophic engine failure could be on the horizon.

Luckily, Andrew and I both seem to feed off of technical challenges, so while we were worried we might not make it to our destination, we actually had fun trying to diagnose the problem, discussing and agreeing on potential courses of action. We even called ahead to some friends who we knew would have parts and asked them to bring them with them to Wytheville just in case we needed them.

By the time we got to Wytheville, Andrew spotted oil starting to drip from his ignition coil, a coil we both erroneously thought was solid state based on the “Blaster SS” branding. With that smoking gun, we sourced a suitable replacement and his car has run flawlessly ever since!

With that fun (and admittedly some stress) behind us, we were able to enjoy the British V8 meet. This meet, like them all, included an opening pizza party at the host hotel and plenty of time to catch up with old friends, meet new friends, and check out everyone’s cars. The next morning started with a beautiful drive to Big Walker Lookout where five states can be viewed from their 100' tower.

We continued on to a nearby town where Dr. Michael Crews shared his extensive collection of British and European classics with us and we had lunch at the town’s Railroad museum. Dr. Crews sponsored the lunch featuring Pepperoni Rolls, which we learned was a staple for the coal miners as a filling meal that didn’t require refrigeration. After lunch, we broke into smaller groups with options for the return route. Andrew and I connected with a few others to tackle the “Back of the Dragon” with its 438 curves of spirited driving. That evening, like every evening, consisted of a few drinks, stories, and tire kicking in the parking lot.

The next morning started with tech sessions on hydrolysis (did you know your coolant can carry voltage and be used to find bad grounds?) and testing brake fluid before a fun caravan of about 40 British cars to the Elizabeth Brown Memorial Park in Wytheville where we were treated to a catered BBQ lunch and a welcome speech from the town’s Mayor. Andrew and I followed that by joining some friends for a drive on the Marion Loop of the “Claw of the Dragon” with me as passenger in his car for this one. The Claw of the Dragon is a set of five loops, each with twisty, curvy roads. Of course, we reminisced in the parking lot that evening about the drives!

The final day began with an hour long drive to Sparta, North Carolina where we had tech sessions on vehicle detailing hosted by Trilogy Detailing and another on understanding and changing the distributor advance curve for performance and idle characteristics.

Those tech sessions were followed by a visit to Eclectic Rods and Restorations, hosted by owner and fellow British V8’er, Ken Nicks. Andrew and I snuck off to a tire shop to get two tires for his car. He had some turbine style aluminum wheels and between their negative offset, the spirited driving without a panhard bar, and the extra weight Andrew was carrying, the tire sidewalls rubbed and got cut up on the rear wheel opening lips. I say it was from all the tools, but Andrew insists it didn’t happen until I was in the car with him! Back in Wytheville, the evening consisted of a banquet and auction of donated items used to help fund the next year’s meet, followed by an extended evening of visiting over a few drinks in the parking lot. No one wanted the event to end so that night ended up being the longest!

The next morning we slept in a bit, then headed out for our return. Thankfully, the drive home was uneventful. We even surprised my wife by showing up the evening before she expected us (I didn’t tell her we were coming home in two days instead of three just in case something went wrong again!)

I’m glad Andrew convinced me that we could handle both cars. We probably got a year’s worth of sorting out on his car completed over the week. His car is now completely reliable and more fun now as a result! And we got to spend some great father/son time together! I encourage you to find a friend or family member and do the same! Maybe make plans to join us at the 2023 British V8 meet in Monticello, IL hosted by Pete Mantell.

Fixed It!

Sun, 10 Jul 2022 23:37:29 GMT

Since I bought my MGB I have struggled with the driver side mirror. There is not enough adjustment to find the right line of sight. To see what is coming behind me I have always had to tuck my chin into my left shoulder and drop my head. Not only was this uncomfortable, it really was a bit dangerous. That is until today.

A few months back Dwight Dawson shared with me that he had purchased a few bits from Modern Touring, a website that specializes in 3D printing unique parts for our cars to solve those minor annoyances. One of their products is a wedge that goes between the drivers side mirror (I assume it will work on the passenger side as well) and the body of the car providing a better angle for the mirror.

The installation took less than 20 minutes and most of that time is getting the mirror adjusted properly and the lock nut tightened. It is a simple matter of turning your mirror to a vertical position and removing two screws. Place the wedge between the mirror and the gasket and screw it back in place. The product was a perfect fit. The only caution is that the screws provided by Modern Touring were the wrong thread pattern for my car. But, the bolts that were originally on my car were long enough that I could reuse them.

Took it for a test drive and for the first time I am able to comfortably look out my driver side review mirror.

Oh yea, I still need to break my "tuck and drop" habit when I look out my review m

You can find the contact information to Modern Touring and many other suppliers of products and services that have been recommended by club members on the Resources Page of our website.

** We are always looking for people to contribute content to The ROARS. If you have a tech tip or even a story about motoring in your MG please feel free to send it to us at HoustonMGCarClub@gmail.com. And don't worry about how well it is written. We have editors that can help clean it up. Photos and photo essays are also greatly appreciated.

Driver Award Standings

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 17:54:07 GMT

Thanks to Greg and Tony for keeping up with theses awards :

NAMGAR GT-47

Sat, 25 Jun 2022 14:04:51 GMT

Club members Greg Fleischer and Ray Holtzapple attended the 2022 NAMGAR GT-47 in Colorado Springs. Greg provided us a few pictures from the event.

There were approximately 100 MGA's, Twin Cams, Extra's, Coups and Magnettes at the event.

Infamous Cheyenne Mountain (NORAD HQ) in background.

There were a few very unique vehicles as well

Ray Holtzapple center stage with his Magnette

The MGB's were well represented including many from the Texas MG Register.

Thank you Greg and Ray for representing the Houston MG Car Club at GT-47

It was announced that next year's event will be in Memphis, Tennessee so all HMGCC MGA'ers, and those who just love an MG, should truly think about attending.

We Beat The Heat To Attend The Quarterly Breakfast

Sun, 19 Jun 2022 17:38:30 GMT

The forecast of scorching heat didn't keep both new and longtime members from attending the Quarterly Breakfast on June 18th. We had a great turn out as our members got an early start to driving their cars to the Midtown Bar & Grill.

The highlight was Ray Holtzapple' s new Magnette.

The service was excellent as we were met at the door with cold water and hot coffee. The food was wonderful and, as always, the conversation was full of laughter, great stories and sharing of technical knowledge.

Battle Of The brit's Golf Tournament.

Sat, 21 May 2022 22:18:46 GMT

The Battle Of The Brit's Golf Tornament took place on Saturday May 21at Jersey meadow Golf club and ended in a draw with the winning team from HMGCC and TTR both turning in a score of 68.

As a result it was agreed to split the $300.00 reaised for charity 50/50 between the Russ Seto Memorial Fund and The Make A Wish Foundation. Special recognition to Steve Session who won closest to the pin and Dakota Phillips who won the longest drive.

Safety fast!

Mike.

Driver's Awards Through April 2022.

Fri, 06 May 2022 21:12:54 GMT

As always thanks to Tony and Greg for all their hard work :

Adventures With Uncle Nigel at the 2022 Henderson GoF

Wed, 04 May 2022 20:18:53 GMT

Contributed by Glenn and Fran Carpenter

Best In Class

Mon, 02 May 2022 01:30:09 GMT

Roger Sykes won Best in MG class at the 2022 Keels & Wheels 26th Anniversary Concours d’Elegance. Roger Congratulations from all of your Houston MG Car Club friends. Your car really is stellar!

Bimini Tops

Fri, 15 Apr 2022 20:38:21 GMT

Bimini tops are appearing on many of the club’s MGBs and we have had inquiries from other members on where you can get one. They are manufactured by Ed Kirkland in Tallahassee, Fl. His contact information can be found on the Club’s Resource Page. I received a Bimini top for Christmas this year and I must say they are a great alternative to baking in the sun when the top is down or feeling claustrophobic and missing out on the wind in your hair when the top is up. Both Kim and I have found that it adds to our driving enjoyment.

Driver Standings

Thu, 31 Mar 2022 20:49:47 GMT

Below are the current award standings. Thanks to Greg and Tony, as always, for all their great work :

Autocross Results

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 15:09:04 GMT

The results are in. This year we were just pipped at the post by the Triumphs but next year we will regain the trophy!!

Safety fast!

Mike.

Driver Awards Standings

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 19:43:18 GMT

Below please see the current award standings. Thanks to Greg and Tony for all their work on maintaining these reports :

The Circle of (a Classic MG's) Life

Sun, 20 Feb 2022 14:58:55 GMT

Many of us live with regrets. “I never should have punched that cop!” “I never should have had that 10^th beer!” And, of course, “I never should have sold that car!”

Our own Ron Redding knows the last one well and has a story to tell about it:

A customer recently brought me his 1967 MGB to get back on the road. He had owned the car for years but never actually driven it. This was your classic project car: the paint looked good from 10 foot, the motor and transmission were out of the car, the engine was disassembled and machined but never re-assembled, and it came with a basket of parts.

He had enjoyed the car over the years by buying new parts. When he brought the car into my shop, the parts filled one entire side of the garage. So we started putting the pieces together. We rebuilt the dismantled engine. We ordered new seats, door panels and carpet. My customer decided he wanted a 5-speed transmission, so I ordered one of the new Miata transmission conversions Moss sells.

Before the engine went back in, he decided he wanted to paint the car. After we stripped the paint from the car, we could see the car had a rough life. Floor panels need replacing, prior rear end damage was repaired poorly, prior rust repairs were sloppy. A patch panel even fell off when we removed a fender. And there was much more rust that would need to be repaired. Seeing all the damage, my customer decided he would find another car and put his collection of parts and rebuilt engine into it.

He located a rust-free car in Arizona, purchased it, and had it shipped to my shop. The transport arrived at my shop, the rear ramp was lowered, and the car backed out. Wow, that car sure looked familiar! Turns out it was my old 1966 MGB I sold in January of 2012! This car was in the Octagon of Honor from the Dallas Club, was at MG 2006 in Gatlinberg, Tennessee and had won numerous awards from our club. With regrets, I sold the car to a man in New York and had contact with a couple people who had purchased it over the years.

The car has a 5-speed Ford Sierra transmission and a supercharged engine which now has around 8,000 miles on it. We did compression checks on both engines and his rebuilt engine had slightly higher readings, so my customer decided to install the supercharger on his rebuilt engine and match it to the Miata 5-speed. We have transferred the new parts we previously installed on his 1967 car to his new car (my old car!) and we continue installing parts on the 1966. It will be a truly loaded MGB (power steering, tube shock conversion front & rear, rear disc brakes, high output heater unit, and much, much more).

By the way - if anyone needs a low mileage 1800 engine or a Ford Sierra 5-speed transmission, my customer would like to sell them!

- Contributed by Ron Redding

So you think you need another project?

Fri, 18 Feb 2022 00:32:50 GMT

Accounting provided by club member Roger Sykes:

February Club Meeting

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 16:36:03 GMT

Did you miss this month's club meeting and want to catch up. Click HERE to see a video from the meeting.

British Motor Museum

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 18:34:16 GMT

HMGCC member Ian Hankin recently travelled back to the UK to visit family. While there, he had the opportunity to take his son to the British Motor Museum near Warwick. This museum is the source of the British Heritage Certificates club members can obtain for their cars. According to Ian, it is well worth the visit! Here are just a sample of some of the great cars in the museum:

In the Beginning: The red car is the 1925 MG 'Old Number One'. While not the first MG car, it is a one-off special made for Cecil Kimber, Manager of Morris Garages. He referred to it as his first car, and is typical of the early MGs with special coachwork (in this case, Carbodies of Coventry) on a standard Morris chassis. The engine is an OHV Hotchkiss-type 4 cyl displacing 1496cc.

Slice and Dice: Here is an example of a rotisserie restoration gone horribly wrong. At least the resultant display provides insight into the bowels of the heater cavity.

Safety First: This ungainly beast is 'Safety Systems Vehicle number 1', built in 1972 for a safety conference in Washington DC. It features a roof mounted 120° panoramic rear view mirror and the ugliest rubber bumpers ever mounted on a vehicle. Also a sobriety testing computer, necessary in a car for which one would need a few drinks to be seen in.

End of the Road: the last MGB off of the Abingdon assembly line. The 512, 880th MGB rolled out the door on October 22, 1980. This metallic pewter Limited Edition marked the end for Abingdon and represented a new low for management of the British motor industry.

What Might Have Been: This 1989 MG DR2 prototype was developed by Rover while considering the possibility of reviving the MG marque. Based on a TVR, it used the Rover V8 engine later used in the MG RV8. This rear drive model was meant to capture the classic British roadster concept. Eventually the concept was shelved in favor of a more compact, mid-engine design that became the MGF.

- Contributed by Scott Hardy. Photos by Ian Hankin.

Lake Conroe Cruise and Car Collection Caravan

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 17:00:10 GMT

The first driving event of 2022 got the year started in a big way. Organized by Bob Schroder with a big assist from Roger Sykes, the combination of good weather with the prospect of great food and viewing a large, private car collection proved irresistible to over 30 club members and guests.

The event kicked off with a half dozen cars meeting at Willowbrook Mall at 11:00 am on Saturday, January 22. The sun shone brightly as the caravan set off for Lake Conroe via the back roads, led by Dwight Dawson. The MGs were joined by Jon Crocker and his diminutive 1955 Morris Minor, into which he managed to squeeze two additional guests who all became intimately acquainted on the hour-long drive.

The caravan was joined by many other club members at Papa’s on the Lake, a large cabana scenically situated on the shores of Lake Conroe, where the signature muffulettas and plentiful bar food was enjoyed by all. Soaking in the views as well as their beverages, the group relaxed and chatted while getting ready for the highlight of the day.

The club then travelled en masse to view the private collections, housed in two large buildings a short drive from the restaurant. The group was greeted by the owner, Larry Pizzino, who gave a brief introduction to his collections. Larry bought the land in the 1960s and placed the two buildings on the property. He built up the collections with the help of his sons, and they perform all the restoration themselves. The vehicles are either restored or presented in good original condition. His collection features about 90 mostly American automobiles and trucks.

In addition to the vehicles, Larry has amassed a large assortment of collectibles and memorabilia, including gas pumps, toys, sports, tools, furniture, typewriters, juke boxes, lots of signs, and plenty of models and books. Most notable is the bar that came out of the famed Galvez Hotel in Galveston circa 1910-1920.

Even though we had most of the afternoon, it was impossible to see and appreciate everything that went into this private collection that we were fortunate to have the chance to view. Larry was the perfect host and note that the HMGCC was the largest group he had hosted to view his warehouses. Our thanks to Larry and to Bob Schroeder for making the arrangements for the tour.

If you would like to see a video from this event click HERE.

- Contributed by Bob Schroeder, photos by Dwight Dawson

What I learned at the Club’s Latest Tech Session

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 02:26:59 GMT

On Saturday, January 9^th eight Houston MG Car Club members and a couple guests gathered at Rich Colwell’s house for a tech session on replacing the differential in an MGA. One of the guests was Mike Rouse, a member of the local Triumph club and very, let me say it again, very knowledgeable about British car differentials. He added much to the discussion and knowledge exchange.

Following a few stories about the how and why of Rich’s desire to replace the differential in one of his two MGA’s, the work and teaching began. But first let me share Rich’s story. A while back he and Pete Sandy where on a drive where Pete’s MGA was cruising along at 70 MPH at about 3500 RPM, while Rich’s MGA was working hard at 4300 to 4400 RPM. The engines in our MG’s are more than capable of handling the higher RPM’s but there is no doubt Pete was having a much more enjoyable/quieter ride. After discussing with Pete why his car was cruising along so comfortably, Rich decided to make the swap, replacing his original 4.3:1 differential with a 3.9:1. About 5 years ago, Rich bought a 3.9:1 diff. from Dave Griffiths (another HMGCC member). It could have been an easy substitution, but the 3.9:1s' "sun gears" had 10 splines on them (for 1500 MGA), while Rich's MGA half axles had 25 splines (late 1600 MGA). Thus, the sun gears, planet gears, and planet gear shaft from the 4.3:1 diff. (along with new bearings and thrust washers) were installed into the 3.9:1 pumpkin. Saturday was the day to make the swap.

So what did I learn on Saturday.

That a differential is often called a pumpkin. (I suppose it is because it looks like one.)
Our LBC’s are not only tough machines, all things considered they are pretty simple in design.
A 1000^th of an inch matters.
Having the right tool can make all the difference. And Rich has many, many tools. His garage is very well equipped, even with very unique and custom made tools he has had for years.
Also, Rich is now the keeper of the Club’s tool loan program. One of the great benefits of membership is the ability to get your hands on those specialized tools. For more information click HERE.
A great garage with plenty of room to work is a blessing.
There is a tremendous amount of knowledge in our club. And the axiom that two minds are better than one is really true (Thanks again to Mike Rouse).
If you have a problem with your MG or are thinking about an upgrade, don’t hesitate to ask fellow club members. They are more than willing to share their knowledge and lessons learned.
That said, it is always good to have an expert on hand who has years and years of experience. I think Mike Rouse has made it his life mission to learn everything there is to know about the differentials of LBC’s. His expertise was invaluable. It also kept Rich from making mistakes.
Having a shop manual and the knowledge to do the work is very different than actually being able to do the work. Perhaps because it is written in British instead of English. As often occurs, there is both art and science to making an MG hum.
Rich had to fabricate a special tool to tighten up/torque the flange nut to the input shaft. It was comprised of two1-1/2" long 5/16" bolts welded to 1/2 angle iron. With the bolts inserted into 2 of the flanges 4 holes, it provided a method of holding the shaft in one position while torqueing. The car is now back on the road, and much quieter at freeway speeds.
Rebuilding a differential properly takes up to 40 man hours.
If the differential goes on my car, I am sending it to an expert to have the work done. I have pretty much determined that is the case for anything in the powertrain of the car. Too easy for me to screw it up.

Oh yea, one more bonus learning… MG owner’s really are the friendliest folks on the planet. If you own an MG, actually even if you don’t but would like to, and you aren’t a member of the Club what are you waiting for? And to those of you who haven’t renewed for 2022 don’t miss out, your membership will expire at the end of February.

To watch a video of this and our other tech sessions click HERE

UPDATE From Rich: The modification works well. We went out for a nice drive today. In fourth gear I am at 3800 rpm versus 4450 or so with the old diff. While I feel a loss of acceleration in 2nd gear, it is easily overcome by higher revs. For Houston roads, it is a nice trade off. While at 4450 rpm, i know that i was not pushing the car, the new feeling is better, and i think on long trips will be more relaxing.

PS: my tool for torqueing down the diff. input flange nut, I topped out at 150 ft.-lbs., bending the tool. But was able to achieve 10 in.-lbs unloaded, not the 12 asked for, but I am not going to worry about it. At that level, it may be in the noise

Texas Twisted Sisters Tour Details

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 19:44:48 GMT

The Texas Twisted Sisters Tour – the Best Sports Car Drive You Will Make This Year!

If you bought your LBC to enjoy driving, you will not want to miss the Texas Twisted Sisters Tour (TTST), which we guarantee will be the best drive you will do this year (if you don’t leave Texas)! This memorable drive will take place April 8 to April 10, and in addition to the fabulous twisty roads, it features a great base hotel, excellent food, vintage motorcycles, and a bonus trip to Fredericksburg.

What are the Twisted Sisters?

Tell me about the TTST!

The west Hill Country location of the tour makes the TTST best enjoyed by a multi-day weekend drive. The host hotel for the drive will be the Y.O. Ranch Hotel, a former location for the GOF. A block of rooms has been reserved with the possibility of adding more. The hotel features a ranch theme, a western saloon, and a famed steakhouse restaurant. Conveniently located off Hwy 16 near I-10, the Y.O. Ranch Hotel is 3:15 from Buc-ee’s in Katy and 2:15 from downtown Georgetown.

We will gather at the hotel on Friday night and will meet for a driver's meeting at 8:00 p.m. at the Branding Iron Restaurant. Suitably refreshed, we will retire early and be ready to hit the road at 8:00 a.m. in the morning. Please have a full tank of gas because the Saturday drive will cover 225 miles.

Turning south on Hwy 16, we will follow a surprisingly entertaining road to the small town of Medina, where we will join the first sister, RR 337, which we will follow over green rolling hills toward Vanderpool. We take a jog in the road and after an hour of driving we reach our first rest stop, the Lost Maples Country Store and Campground.

From Lost Maples, we will travel 45 mins west to our next stop. On RR 337 we come across the first spectacular vistas of the day as we drive over ridges that afford amazing views. Our route continues through Leakey to Camp Wood, where we have our second rest at the Shamrock gas station. We will also take a short detour to get a scenic group photo shot on the banks of the Nueces River.

Heading north on Hwy 55, we soon reach the middle sister, RR 335. This scenic road follows rivers and creeks as it winds its way north. Some of the best swimming holes in Texas are nearby in the Nueces River. After another 45 mins of driving, we will reach our third stop at the junction of RR 355 and Hwy 41.

From the highway junction we get a chance to blow the carbon out of the cars as we head east on Hwy 41. We meet up with the final sister, RR 336, at the 13 mile mark. Arguably saving the best for last, be prepared for a work-out flailing your steering wheel as the road zigs and zags south through ranching country. Elevation changes and switchbacks are also a feature, so your leg will be well acquainted with your brake pedal. After 50 mins of driving pleasure, we will arrive back in Leakey and assemble at the Bent Rim Grill for lunch.

The Bent Rim Grill caters to the motorcycle clubs that come in droves to experience the route you have just completed. They are accustomed to serving groups, so we can rest, relax, and unwind from our adventurous morning on the road. The Frio Canyon Motorcycle Shop adjacent to the restaurant has a large selection of Twisted Sisters souvenirs. If you are low on fuel, this is your best opportunity to top off the tank.

When we have sufficiently recovered, we will head east on RR 337, re-visiting the road but headed eastbound, which presents equally impressive but totally different vistas. We will head to our next stop, the Lone Star Motorcycle Museum, which is about a 30 min drive. Located just south of the fabulous Lost Maples State Park, the museum features an eclectic collection of vintage motorcycles and gives us a chance to stretch our legs as we peruse the two wheeled vehicles.

Our last leg of the trip takes about 50 mins to drive and has us heading north past Lost Maples State Park on Hwy 139. We turn right on Hwy 39, which features several picturesque river crossings as we wind our way back to Kerrville. Our final stop before dinner is the Southern Sky Music Café, situated nicely between the shores of Lake Old Ingram and the eccentric Stonehenge II, one of the quirkiest Texas attractions. At Southern Sky we can enjoy live music or sit out on the banks of the lake, putting to rest the miles we have traveled.

After refreshing ourselves, we will have time to refuel and relax at the hotel before heading out for dinner at 6:30 p.m. Dinner will be held at the Lakehouse Restaurant in Kerrville on the shores of Nimitz Lake. Enjoy some fine Hill Country cuisine while experiencing the sun setting over the lake. If you can manage desert, you will be completely satiated before we head back to the ranch. After dinner drinks on the grounds of the Y.O. Ranch are a distinct possibility

Sunday morning those who wish will gather for brunch at 8:30 a.m. The itinerary on Sunday is casual, and those who wish to depart may do so at any time. Those who are interested can head up Hwy 16 to Fredericksburg for some shopping and sightseeing, and maybe a winery or two before heading for home.

Tour Notes

The TTST is a long and physical drive. Please make sure your car is in top condition and all the usual checks are performed before doing this drive.
Bring extra tools and consumables such as fan belts and fuel pumps if you have them. These roads are sparsely populated and far from any services.
While all roads on this tour are paved, do not expect perfectly smooth asphalt and road conditions. Your car may get wet crossing a stream.
Caravanning from Houston, Austin and/or Dallas is encouraged. We will let participants know who is coming from their area to assist in coordinating travel.
We will observe the speed limits, but if you have trouble keeping up with the pace, please bring your concerns to the attention of the tour organizers.
A mandatory drivers meeting will be held after the dinner Friday night to discuss safety and logistics.
Please bring FRS radios if you have them to aid with communication among the participants.
Ethanol-free gas is available at Mcbryde Oil Co, 220 Mcfarland Dr, Kerrville TX.
Please email, text or phone all questions to Scott Hardy, scott.b.hardy@gmail.com, 832-613-3664.

Hotel Information

We have reserved a block of rooms at the Y.O. Ranch Hotel, a former location for the GOF. The reduced room rate for the drive is $129. A link to reserve a room at the group rate is given below, or you may call the hotel directly to reserve using the group code. The rooms will be available at the group rate until noon on March 8, 2022, and additional rooms can be made available until the deadline. After March 8 the group rate will not be available and rooms will be subject to availability, so please book your stay before the deadline.

Link for reservations: https://res.windsurfercrs.com/ibe/details.aspx?propertyid=16586&nights=1&checkin=04/08/2022&group=HOUSTO0422

Reservations by phone: 877-967-3767 Reservation code: HOUSTO0422

A Historic Car with an HMGCC Connection

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 19:50:18 GMT

Most HMGCC members love their LBCs, but few of them have any truly enticing history or provenance. But one of our members once owned a car with both historical significance and celebrity connections. Ray Holtzapple , who many of us regard warmly for his large MG collection and his willingness to share his encyclopedic knowledge with the rest of us, once restored a car with a storied past. Please click on the link below to see the story of his 1952 Allard J2 and the part that Ray played in its history.

https://mecumgallery.com/allard-j2-roadster

Photo from Mecum gallery

Safety Fast Driver Standings

Fri, 07 Jan 2022 22:50:15 GMT

Thanks to Greg as always for this report:

Driver's Award Standings

Fri, 07 Jan 2022 22:48:03 GMT

As always thanks to Greg for this report:

* MG2022 Update - January 2022 - Happy New Year! *

Tue, 04 Jan 2022 18:16:09 GMT

A message from Jeremy Holdsworth, MG2022 Vice Chair

The organizing committee of MG2022 continues to work behind the scenes to ensure all our participants enjoy a memorable and fun-filled convention. Registration opened at the beginning of December and our team has been overwhelmed by the fantastic response we have seen thus far.

At the time of writing this update, we are down to our last 10 convention rate hotel rooms. All this allocation at the Holiday Inn has now sold out and the remaining rooms are at the Best Western. Standard rates at both of those hotels are still available by making your own arrangements directly with these host hotels themselves. Peterborough also offers several other choices for accommodations including hotels, motels, traditional bed & breakfast, AirBnB and some excellent campgrounds in the local area.

Our activities are also filling up fast. We kick things off on Sunday when registration opens at the Holiday Inn, followed by the NAMGBR Meet & Greet where you will be able to meet the organization’s officers and registrars.

Monday will have a full schedule of programming including numerous Tech Sessions, Guided Tours, a Rallye and Funkhana during the day, followed in the evening by our Parking Lot Party at the Holiday Inn. We will also have self directed driving routes mapped out for those who wish to explore Peterborough and surrounding areas in their MG.

Tuesday brings us another full day of activities including the famous John Twist Rolling Tech Session plus more Indoor Tech Sessions, Guided Tours and the Hagerty Driving Experience followed in the evening by our Group Dinner at Lang Pioneer Village and then later by our Pub Night.

Wednesday is the day you have all been waiting for. The Car Show is the main feature of all NAMGBR conventions. We will have all the standard NAMGBR classes for MGB, MGC, Midget, 1100/1300 and Post Abingdon cars plus classes for MG T-Series, MGA, MG - Other and British - Other. You do not need to bring a NAMGBR sanctioned car to participate in our car show and we encourage owners of all MGs to consider bringing their cars to MG2022.

This year’s show will take place at Nicholls Oval Park, only a short 5-minute drive from the host hotels. This was the site of the Car Show at the inaugural convention in 1992 and we look forward to making our return to this beautiful location and filling it with hundreds of MGs. There are washrooms on site, plus lots of trees for shade, a playground with splash pad for our youngest enthusiasts and a covered pavilion just in case of any inclement weather. We have lined up a DJ to play British Invasion tunes, some food trucks and British Car related vendors to offer a complete MG Car Show experience.

The Car Show is followed by the Awards Banquet at the Holiday Inn. Ticket holders will be provided with a hearty meal and once the dinner has finished, we will open the Awards Ceremony to all participants. Covid restrictions might make it a bit challenging to fit all participants into the banquet facility, but we are working on finding a way of having the ceremony broadcast on a live feed into one or two of the hotel’s conference rooms. You will not want to miss our Guest Speaker coming all the way from the UK, Dr. Ian Pogson, who spent many years working on Post Abingdon cars for MG. His stories and tales from the modern factory are not to be missed.

Thursday morning, we say farewell with a Pancake Breakfast to promote MG2023 in Calgary. We look forward to hearing more about MG2023 from the Calgary MG Club. I have personally visited the host hotel for MG2023 and can say it will be a fantastic location for another NAMGBR convention.

As previously mentioned, our activities are filling up fast. Some are available on a limited/first come first served basis so please consider registering as soon as you possibly can at www.mg2022.org to avoid missing out.

Safety Fast!

Jeremy Holdsworth

MG2022 Vice Chair

Christmas Party 2021

Wed, 29 Dec 2021 18:58:12 GMT

The season finale for the activities of the Houston MG Car Club is always the Christmas Party, where we take the time to share the spirit of the season and reflect on the events of the past year. And 2021 was indeed a memorable year for the club, marking the return of (almost) normal activities, registering a record number of members, and the achievement of reaching our milestone 50^th anniversary.

The Christmas Party was held in the accommodating and familiar surroundings of The Club at Falcon Point on Saturday, December 4. For those driving their MGs to the golf club, the weather co-operated by being comfortably warm and keeping the showers at bay. The Club was decked out in seasonal livery, adding to the warmth of the Christmas spirit.

As is tradition with the HMGCC, donations of food were accepted for a local food bank, and club members were invited to join President Mike Woodward in an MG caravan delivering the considerable collection of donated food on the following Tuesday. Thank you to all the members who contributed to this worthy cause!

The party started with friends gathering in the banquet room and sharing laughs and Christmas spirits with their friends. Many club members arrived wearing their seasonal finery and ugly Christmas sweaters, reminding us all that Christmas never goes out of fashion. Old and new friends swapped stories about the events of the past year and tales of tribulation with their vintage autos.

Mike Woodward ably demonstrated his extraordinary range of talent as he acted as master of ceremonies, award presenter, activity director, and keyboardist during the course of the afternoon. The first award was the group presentation of the 500 Mile Club, recognizing those enthusiasts who use their car for more than just an objet d’art by driving them at least 500 miles to club events. The members of the 500 Mile Club for 2021 include Bob Chalker, Alex Laverock, Ken Evesson, Mike Woodward, Dwight Dawson, Gordon Bard, Joe Schrodi, Scott Hardy, Roger Sykes, Ray Holtzapple, Rich Colwell, Steve Session, Pete Sandy and Bruce Payne.

After the first award, Club members enjoyed a fine Christmas feast served buffet style. As the guests patiently waited for their table to be called to the bar, those who were first served enjoyed a sumptuous meal featuring both fish and fowl, not to mention holiday treats for dessert.

The presentations recommenced as the members finished their meals. The Club Officers for 2022 were announced, and thanks given to those leaving their positions.

o President – Mike Woodward

o Vice President – Tony Galt

o Board Member – Ron Redding

o Board Member – Bob Schroeder

o Board Member – Rich Colwell

o Board Member – Steve Sessions

o Board Member – Gordon Smith

o Webmaster – Bob Chalker

o Assistant Webmaster – Rob Ficalora

o Regalia – Alex Laverock

o Treasurer – Greg Fleischer

o Membership Chair – Rob Ficalora

o Secretary – Roald Lokken

o Event Coordinator – Larry Lovins

o Roars Editor – Scott Hardy

One of the most anticipated yearly awards is the Driver’s Award, given to the club member who records the most mileage in attending club events in their vintage car. This year’s deserving winner was Joe Schrodi, racking up an impressive 2,945 miles in his yellow 1976 MGB.

The Alan Rayne Memorial Award, better known as the Broken Crankshaft Award, is the trophy nobody really wants, because it memorializes a mechanical misfortune occurring during or driving to/from a club event. The trophy this year was presented by last year’s recipient, Gord Bard (who keeps himself in the running every year). The 2021 winner was Pete Sandy, for losing his distributor at the Autocross held in 2019.

The Ralph Diebert Award goes to the MG that receives the most votes from club members attending the Houston All British Car Day, and this year was presented to the 1972 MGB of Bob Chalker. Bob was a double award recipient, also taking home the Board of Director’s Award for outstanding service to the club. Well done!

The President’s Award is given to any club member who has provided exceptional leadership or service. Service can include, but is not be limited to: contributing articles to the website or Roars, organizing one or more events, or attending multiple events throughout the year in support of the club. Mike mentioned several people he considered for the award, and the plaque went to Larry Lovins for his exceptional job organizing and promoting club events.

The Back Seat Driver’s Award is given to the spouse or partner of a club member who in the opinion of the Board of Directors made the greatest contribution to the Club’s success for the year. For 2021 this award was presented to Trish Hardy in recognition of her success in organizing past events.

After the presentation of the awards, Mike assumed his activity director role and led the gift exchange aerobics. Door prizes were handed out to the lucky winners, and one person at each table went home with the table centerpiece.

To wrap up the party and send everyone home in the festive spirit, the indomitable Oil Spots reconvened and regaled the crowd with their renditions of holiday classics. Our thanks and a tip of the fedora to John Bowyer, electric guitar and vocals; Rich Colwell, saxophone/flute; Mike Woodward, keyboard; Ken Evesson, drums; and Walter Bernard, keyboard.

Our best wishes to all for a wonderful holiday season and a healthier and joyeous 2022!

- Story by Scott Hardy, photos by Greg Fleischer

Tentative 2022 List of Events

Mon, 20 Dec 2021 00:05:29 GMT

Autocross, Twisted Sisters, GoF, tech sessions, movies and many more driving events.

The club has begun planning the schedule of events for 2022 and although it isn't yet official we have published a list of tentative events so that you can begin planning. We encourage you to mark your calendar so that you don't miss out on the fun. The list can be found on the 2022 Tentative Events page. Once they are official they will be added to the Club Sponsored Events Page.

The Best Christmas Ever

Sat, 18 Dec 2021 15:17:03 GMT

For those of us who love our classics, this will touch your hearts. Get your Kleenex’s ready.

https://youtu.be/c4-oyBnknHk

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas, may it be full of family, friends, love and peace. Oh yea, and a bit of driving in your MG!

NAMGBR 2022!! It's not too early to start planning :)

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 16:23:52 GMT

Christmas Party Food Drive

Sat, 27 Nov 2021 14:20:52 GMT

As you prepare to attend our Christmas Party, remember to bring your package for the Food Bank. Here are some Ideas from a person that spoke to people who actually receive donated food items:

Everyone donates mac and cheese in the box but it is hard to make use of because it requires milk and butter which is hard to get at food banks.

Boxed milk is a treasure, as kids need it for cereal which they also get a lot of.

Canned vegetables and soups are great but often need a can opener or a pop top.

Oil is a luxury but it is needed for rice-a-roni.

Spices or salt and pepper make a real Christmas gift.

Tea bags and coffee make people feel like you really care.

Sugar and flour are treats.

Tuna and crackers make a good lunch.

Food Banks get a lot of peanut butter and jelly but little sandwich bread.

Butter or margarine are useful.

Cake mix and frosting make it possible to make child’s birthday cake.

Dishwashing detergent is expensive and always appreciated.

Everyone loves Stove Top Stuffing.

Driver Award Standings

Thu, 04 Nov 2021 12:37:11 GMT

As always thanks to Greg for keeping up with the standings :

Autocross Results

Thu, 04 Nov 2021 12:25:34 GMT

Autocross 2021: Battle of the Brits!

Tue, 02 Nov 2021 17:08:48 GMT

A crisp October morning greeted the participants in this year’s autocross event hosted by the Texas Triumph Register. Held annually at the Houston Police Academy training track, an autocross provides enthusiasts like us with the opportunity to drive their cars in the manner for which they were designed. That is to say, drive it like you stole it! But you can do so in the safety of a closed circuit with the only obstacles being plastic pylons marking the course.

The host club had arrived early to litter the training track with orange traffic cones, marking the figure eight track into a maze of twists and turns. After the participants arrived and finished their coffee, the organizers went through the track procedures and led the group on a parage lap through the maze of cones. Which left everybody to wonder how they were ever going to remember the correct route through the piles of pylons. (Spoiler: many did not!)

The hosts required that the cars be cleared of loose items in the cab and boot, and all cars had to pass a tech inspection. Surprisingly, all did. All drivers who did not bring their own helmets were given a colorful balaclava and a loaner helmet to complete their drives. And so the competition began, with the cars being divided into four heats and drivers being allotted four timed laps each.

The cool morning air was soon shattered with the sound on snarling exhausts and squealing tires as the autocrossers attempted to better their times with each succeeding lap. And those who overestimated the abilities of their classic cars to negotiate the twisties soon provided spectators with some impressive drifts and smoky slides. A special shout out to Pete Sandy, who guided his big Healy through, by consensus, the most entertaining slide of the day. Special mention to Gord Bard for his numerous trips off the tarmac and to Ken Evesson for his brilliantly executed 180° drift to conclude his day on the track.

The HMGCC was able represented by the aforementioned drivers as well as Rich Colwell, Glenn and Fran Carpenter, Renne and Clair Lanphier, Scott and Trish Hardy, Dwight Dawson, Larry Lovins and Steve Loden.

The event was not limited to just Triumphs and MGs, as more modern machinery was also allowed to run. But there is no doubt that the older cars, while they may have been slower, were much more fun to follow as they skittered through the course squealing their tires, smoking their brakes, and listing through every turn.

The Triumph club had a special surprise at the end of the day. They had a trophy made which would be presented to either the Triumph or the MG club, depending on which classic British marque’s devotees had the best average lap times. In a remarkably close decision, which may or may not have come down to some creative Hollywood bookkeeping, the MG club took home the inaugural presentation of the Lucas Memorial Cup. Said trophy will be proudly on display at the Christmas gala in December for all club members to ogle.

The only blot on an otherwise perfect day was that the number of Triumphs greatly outnumbered the number of MGs. All HMGCC participants agreed that the autocross was a wonderful day to spend with your car and fellow club members. Nothing quite matches the adrenalin rush of pressing your car and your skills to the limit, trying to put together the perfect lap. And even if you will never be the reincarnation of Stirling Moss, the excitement of working the steering wheel through the pylons is worth the price of admission. You enjoy the same fun factor regardless of skill level.

Enjoying an event like this is definitely something all club members should seriously consider, and the good news is that you will have another chance to do so in the spring!

- Story and photos by Dwight Dawson and Scott Hardy

Whit's Fur Ye'll No Go By Ye!

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 18:00:58 GMT

(translated into English: You will get what you were meant to have!)

This wee Scots expression perfectly sums up my MG experience! My MG story starts when I was growing up in Scotland and my uncle owned several MGBs. We kids would squeeze in behind the seats and enjoy the ride and the wind in our face! Scroll forward some 40+ years later and I now live in Houston and scan the Hemmings website every other month hoping to find my perfect car.

This summer I took my family back to Scotland, and while in 10 days quarantine I once again turned to scrolling through the Hemmings website. To my surprise I spotted my perfect red 1960 MGA and proceeded to bid. To my amazement and joy I was the highest bidder. To my great disappointment I never made the reserve! I contacted the seller and said that I would get a friend to inspect the car when I returned to the US – although the car was in Toronto, Canada!

I managed to contact an acquaintance who lived outside Toronto and asked if he would help inspect the vehicle. Fortunately, he had a good friend who bought and refurbished old classics, so it was back on again for my perfect car.

They visited the owner the next Saturday morning, and I got a call at lunchtime with all the details. My friend’s classic car guy was a perfectionist and wasn’t sure what standard I was looking for, but he soon realized I was also a perfectionist, and it seemed the car needed a new paint job, re-chroming, and a new soft top. He could hear the disappointment in my voice but said he had been looking online for a few days for comparable cars and had seen a perfect car, to which he promptly sent me a link.

I looked up the link and to my amazement saw the perfect red 1960 MGA, for real this time. My family all looked at it and I immediately contacted the seller up in Idaho for a video of the car running. Ray Myers was the owner, and he duly shot and sent me a video. I called Ray the next day to find out more about the car and got its full history and all the care that he had given the car over the past twelve years. I said I would think about it and get back to him. But I couldn’t wait, so less than an hour later I called back to say I wanted to buy the car and would send a deposit on Monday morning! So in less than 24 hours, and never having seen the car, I let my heart do the talking instead of my brain and hopefully, probably foolishly, bought my perfect MGA.

I sent the deposit and said I would arrange to pay the remainder within the week. Ray was gracious enough to suggest that I come and see the car before I bought it and sent me flight details. What I didn’t realize at the time was that Ray was interviewing my son and I to see if we were worthy of owning his pride and joy! So a few weeks later my son and I flew to Spokane and drove over to Idaho to meet Ray. But not before I had paid the full asking price! This, I explained to my 17 year old son, was something that he should never, ever do and gave him all the reasons why – but the first time in my life I went against my own better judgement. The only reason being my conversations with Ray and the trust I had developed in a man I had never met.

When we arrived, Ray asked questions, but not to me – to my son: Would you work on the engine or put her into a garage? (James wants to learn all about the car and how to maintain a real engine). Would you show her or just keep her in the garage? (James would love to start going to shows and get involved). So while that passed, Ray really got to know us and decided he wouldn’t give me my money back; rather, he would allow us to buy his MGA.

Ray then told me the complete story of his twelve years of tender loving care and refurbishment, including the day he got her, what happened in the local garage, and the time he and his grandson stripped down the engine and rebuilt it together. He also traced the car back to the day of manufacture and received the British Motor Industry Heritage Trust Certified copy of the factory record.

A few weeks after visiting Ray and transporting the car home, I joined the Houston MG Car Club and entered the 31st Annual Houston All British Car Day on October 9th. We invited Ray and his best friend Frank to come down and see us in our first car show, which they both did. We had a terrific weekend with two new friends, spending Friday examining the car to see if it still met Ray’s exacting standards. The next day Ray and Frank were at the show before we arrived and stayed with us the entire day. We had a wonderful time with them, and James impressed them and the rest of the HMGCC with his ability on the pipes. I’m pretty certain Ray was even more proud than we were of us winning first place in our first show with “his” beauty.

So not only have we found our perfect car after all these years, but also have two very dear new friends from Idaho. I’m sure it won’t be the last time we see then down here in Texas at the MG club events! Glasses up to a long-lasting friendship and a beautiful, perfect car for generations to come!

- Story contributed by new member Jim McWhinnie. Photos by Dwight Dawson.

Do you play Electric Bass?

Tue, 05 Oct 2021 19:57:32 GMT

“The Oil Spots” debuted at the HMGCC 50th anniversary party and entertained our membership with a variety of pop and rock-n-roll songs.

We would like to keep the good times going!

The band needs an electric bass player and would like to know any if our HMGCC membership play and would be interested in joining the group.

Our intention is to practice twice per month and play at club events and other extracurricular activities as we build our song list.

If interested, please call or email Rich Colwell at 610-703-7313 or rlcolwell@gmail.com

Beware Of Car Selling Scams

Tue, 05 Oct 2021 19:35:44 GMT

I recently listed my ’61 Morris Minor for sale on our club website with an asking price of $14,100.00. After a couple of days, I was pleased to receive an e-mail from someone offering full asking price. He suggested he would overnight me a cashier’s check for $3,100.00 over the asking price to cover the cost of shipping the car to Florida. He suggested that his “agent” would come by our house and pick up the $3,100.00 in cash and arrange for the transportation.

A tempting offer, right? It would be easy to accept this offer, especially when I received the cashier’s check shown below. I did not, as I realized it was a scam that works as follows:

You deposit the check and then give the agent the $3,100.00. The buyer then puts a stop payment on the check and you are out the $3,100.00.

I determined this to be a scam because there were too many red flags, namely:

1. It is rare to receive a full price offer with no negotiation.
2. It is rare to have an “agent” come by to pick up cash.
3. The cost to ship a car from Texas to Florida is less than $1,000.00.
4. The cashier’s check issuer was not the seller.
5. The check was not sent from the seller’s home address.
6. The seller refused to provide his telephone number.
7. The seller did not provide his address to allow me to send the title and bill of sale.

I offer this article to hopefully make people aware of the types of scams that are out there and suggest if you are not customarily selling cars, seek advice from club members that are so you are not left disappointed.

Safety fast!

- Contributed by Mike Woodward

Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Houston MG Car Club

Tue, 05 Oct 2021 17:50:43 GMT

In many ways, 1971 was a year of transition from the turmoil of the sixties. The war in Vietnam was winding down. All in the Family debuted on television as Ed Sullivan exited. Men were walking and driving on the moon. Bangladesh and Elon Musk were born and, more importantly, so was the Houston MG Car Club. A small group of sports car devotees decided the time was right to share their passion for the most popular sports car in America and to appreciate the celebrated history of the sports car that America loved first. If a few pints could be downed to enhance the enthusiasm, well, so much the better!

2021 is the year we celebrate our 50th continuous year as an MG Club. That small group has now reached a record 189 members, showing that the dedication of the faithful has not flagged. As is appropriate to an occasion of such consequence, the year has been one of frequent celebration. The good times culminated with eight days of unique events beginning on Saturday, Sept. 4 with a regular monthly club meeting at Lyndon’s BBQ. All year, President Mike Woodward has proposed and encouraged participation in a wide variety of extended activities in recognition of the Club’s founding and half century of success honoring our impressive variety of classic MG sports cars.

The good times continued Sunday as club members congregated at the home of John Bowyer for a “FREE FOR ALL” to provide and acquire MG parts, memorabilia, and anything automotive. This super swap meet provided our inveterate hoarders with a way to “clear the garage” …and fill it up again with even more useful new old stuff!

On Monday, the faithful gathered at the venerable Red Lion on Shepard Ave., the location of many a shared pint or two over the years. Ray Holtzapple made the arrangements for the club to share in the excellent pub grub and fine British brews. The weather cooperated, leading members to enjoy their MGs for transportation to and from the pub.

Tuesday saw the activities move back to the Northwest as President Mike Woodward conducted a tech session demonstrating how to use the Club’s laser alignment tool. This device is an easy-to-use tool which, armed only with an adjustable wrench, enables even the least handy among us to enable our MGs to track and steer more effectively. The tool was loaned that very day to a member with dreams of spot-on alignment correcting his squirrely handling. Mike also provided useful information on all the Club tools that are always available to Members.

Wednesday was the day our cinephiles and history buffs gathered at the Alamo Draft House Cinema in Katy to view the MG documentary “Inside the Octagon II.” This film focused on the post-war MGs, whilst the first film of the series, viewed at an earlier August event, featured the pre-war cars. Seeing these 1996 movies projected on the big screen using the original master reels was a unique and rewarding experience. Credit and appreciation are due to club members Gary Watson, Producer and David Renner, Production Assistant and Interviewer. Having food and beverage in a comfy theatre chair made the evening beyond delightful.

By Thursday it was time to spread the joy. The size and geography of Houston presents a challenge for members who don’t live in the usual west Houston locus of club activities, so this year we have held several events in South Houston locations around NASA. Our special event this week was the opportunity to enjoy the excellent Brit-approved curry dishes and a symphony of flavors at Noon Mirch Restaurant in Webster, TX. Everyone who made the trip enjoyed this unique gustatory event arranged by Tony Galt.

The Richmond Arms Pub, a historic site in club lore, seemed like the ideal spot for Friday’s indoor and front deck celebration. Many a tale was told over several pints of the finest British ale. The good times extended well into the afternoon whilst the MGs on display in the car park attracted the attention of commuters and passers-by. A tip of the hat to Dwight Dawson, who made the arrangements for this gathering.

By Saturday, everybody was ready for the main event. The culmination of the week-long HMGCC 50th Anniversary Celebration was the highly anticipated celebratory banquet at the Falcon Point Country Club in Katy.

Planning and arrangements were expertly managed by Rich and Kathy Colwell and their ace team that included: Bob Chalker, Candy Dawson, Ken Evesson, Terry and Linda Myers, and Greg and Dottie Ulrich. The banquet took place from 11:00 to 4:00, and in addition to the opportunity to share with others such a significant milestone in club history, the agenda included:

· a scrumptious buffet luncheon and cash bar

· a Silent Auction of memorable MG and British auto relate items

· a live auction of MG director chairs created by the Myers

For everyone, the highlight of the entire week had to be the unannounced and outrageous entertainment provided by our very own club band, The Oil Spots. Inspired by the Blues Brothers, these club members pounded out the tunes like a well-oiled machine. Featured in a performance more shocking than a Lucas ignition system were: John Bowyer, electric guitar and vocals; Rich Colwell, saxophone/flute; Mike Woodward, keyboard; Ken Evesson, drums; and Walter Bernard, keyboard. We can only hope that this group stays together to highlight many club events well into the future! (see related article)

After the excitement of the banquet, a cooling-off period was in order, so many in the group caravanned to the Baker St. Pub to reflect on the events of the week and the camaraderie that made it possible for an eclectic group of British car aficionados to manage to hang together for half a century. Like many of our cars, we are 50 years young and still going strong!

Overall, this capstone celebration was proper recognition and support of the lofty dream that several aggressively fun people had in 1971 to create a club that promoted the appreciation and preservation of the sports car that America loved first... the MG. To provide a unique perspective of club history, copies of the very first Roars newsletter were made available for attendees. A member in active attendance on this day was also knee-deep in the nascent events half a century earlier that created the Houston MG Car Club. John Bowyer, an original club member, proudly wore the 50-year-old club jersey that he first wore in 1971. Amazingly enough – it still fits!

- Photos and story contributed by Dwight Dawson

Driver's Standings

Sun, 03 Oct 2021 21:34:16 GMT

Our thanks to Greg as always for keeping up with this :

Safety fast!

Mike.

A Message from Club Members Susan and Keith Cannon

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 16:36:16 GMT

Texas MG Register State Fair Day 2021

Mon, 13 Sep 2021 02:52:38 GMT

Our friends from the Texas MG Register have invited us to join them at the Texas State Fair on Friday, October 1st. Although this is not an official Houston MG Car Club event this sounds like a great day for enjoying your car, good people and lot's of fair food!

Come out and enjoy a day at the fair with other British cars on Friday, 1 October. The Texas MG Register has been invited to participate in the Classic Car Corral at the State Fair of Texas. This is a TMGR sponsored event, but we have also invited other British clubs to join us to get the required number of cars to participate. North Texas Healey Club and the Red River Triumph Club. You don’t even have to bring an MG just something British.

So, pack the lawn chairs and ice chest and come out and spend the day at the fair.

There is no cost. You will receive your ticket the day of the event. There is also great trailer parking if wish to trailer.

Eric and Debbie Olson are hosting this even an they need to know as soon as possible if you plan to participating. Please email enogto@yahoo.com ASAP. Eric had to turn in a headcount by 20 September. Eric will send you more details, maps etc. via email.

Her are a few details about the event:

Instructions for 2021 Classic Corral

All cars must use Gate 8 located on Fitzhugh Avenue

See attached map for gate location

Inbound

ü Enter Gate 8 and line up along curb on First Ave. (Dos Equis Pavilion side)

ü All vehicles need to be staged by 8:30AM at Pennsylvania and First Ave

ü A police motorcycle or golf cart will escort you to the Corral

ü NO vehicles outside the split rail perimeter during the show

ü Tow Vehicles will be led out to the Dos Equis parking lot

ü Absolutely NO political signs or flags.

If a vehicle is late (after 9AM) it will not be allowed into the Corral. Ice chests will be allowed but no glass and no alcohol shall be brought in.

Outbound

ü Vehicles shall be ready to go at 5:30 PM

ü A police motorcycle will escort all the vehicles out at 5:45 PM

ü All vehicles must be gone from the Corral by 6PM. The parade stages at about 6:15 on First Avenue, if you are late you won’t be able to exit

Each vehicle must have a Schedule "B" form signed and dated by its owner. (This will be handed out when you arrive) A staff member will collect them on the day of your display.

Only show vehicles will be allowed in the corral. Any vehicle not in the display group will not be allowed in the gates without purchased parking.

MG Driver Award Standings

Sat, 04 Sep 2021 11:26:44 GMT

Thanks as always to Greg for keeping up with the results.

Inside "Inside the Octagon"

Sat, 21 Aug 2021 13:57:51 GMT

Last week, many of our members chose to experience a special event for admirers of the MG marque with the showing of the first film of the two-part documentary “Inside the Octagon” at the Alamo Drafthouse cinema. The Houston MG Car Club was heavily, if peripherally, involved in the production. As those who attended are already aware, the films were produced by Gary Watson, a past president of the HMGCC, and the interviewer was Dave Renner, another past president. We contacted them to get some insights into the production and thought many of you would enjoy their memories of these unique films.

…from Dave Renner, Interviewer:

Now, about Inside the Octagon: the main thing that stuck in my mind about my involvement in making this documentary was how prepared and carefully researched Gary Watson was. Remember, this was in the 1990s before the internet was the source of so much information (and misinformation) as it is today. He told me that he spent months writing letters and making overseas calls, which of course were very early in the morning or late at night for him to accommodate the people he was interviewing. And almost all of them were extremely gracious to spend time with someone who was clearly genuinely interested in the MG story, but unknown to them at the time.

As for my impressions when we got to England, I was excited to be part of something that interested me so much. I had been a journalist in the Coast Guard, so I had some training to do interviews and research stories. Meeting such significant MG people as John Thornley, Don Hayter, Wilkie Wilkinson (my personal favorite character), Jean Kimber Cook, Sid Beer, Jim Simpson, David Bishop and others was a thrill for me. All of them were gracious and seemed genuinely pleased that we cared enough to come to England to make a movie about what had been their lives. And seeing Oxford and Abingdon-On-Thames where MGs originated really impressed a history buff like me.

What a wonderful time it was. Gary did almost all the driving, wrestling a van loaded with three Americans – Gary Watson, Tim Himes and myself. It was crammed full of camera gear and lighting and sound equipment. And driving on the wrong side of the street to boot. Gary did ask me to give it a go once, whereupon I promptly nearly ran up on the sidewalk and terrified a lady pushing a pram. I can assure you I was easily as frightened as she was. He never suggested I take the wheel again.

Later in Oxford, Gary showed his great skill as he drove the van through an increasingly narrowing series of lanes until we finally came to a dead stop at an ancient stone wall. Our map indicated that our destination was just over the wall, but Gary had to reverse that cumbersome van back through the maze of lanes to go around to our destination. All the time he was sitting on the wrong side of the beast. Well done, Gary!

Not much more to add. It was a wonderful time and made me feel just a tiny part of keeping the MG legacy alive.

… from Gary Watson, Producer:

The first bit of trivia is that I was inspired to do the films after producing a special edition of the ROARS in 1990 that commemorated the 10th anniversary of the closing of the MG factory. I read all the MG history books that I could put my hands on and put together a 36-page history for the club.

I was working as a cinematographer for other producers at the time. I was looking for a project to produce on my own and the MG story resonated with me. I knew making a film about the MG story would be expensive and complicated, so I spent a great deal of time thinking about it. Finally I wrote letters to John Thornley and Jean Kimber Cook in care of the MG Car Club in England to see if they would participate in such a production. If either of them said no, I would drop the idea. If they both said yes, it would be a go. In very short order I received letters in the affirmative from both of them.

Using personal seed money, I booked flights for Dave Renner, sound man Tim Himes, and myself to England in January 1992. I was able to get the flights cheap because 1.) it was January, and 2.) it was just after the first Gulf War and overseas flights were in low demand. I don’t think Dave and I slept at all on the trip over and we talked MGs and MG people for the whole flight.

Everyone we met in England was delightful and hospitable. While we were filming John Thornley’s interview (which took all day) his wife was preparing a delicious rack of lamb which we all shared that evening. Mr. Thornley read a short story to us after dinner. I have forgotten the title, but it was a humorous story about (as I remember it) an English film crew trying to film an African scene in the English countryside. Of course everything went wrong during the filming.

Wilkie Wilkinson was the first person we interviewed. He lived in a small village in Lincolnshire and after filming his part we walked in the freezing cold to the nearby pub where we dined and drank in front of a roaring fire. At that moment I thought that this is what a retirement life should be like.

Jean Cook prepared dinner for us and when we sat at the table there was a plate of cheese. We all three began snacking on the cheese thinking it was hors d’oeuvres. When Jean came back with the main course she was distressed. “Oh, boys, the cheese was for afters!” Ugly Americans one and all.

Throughout the trip I had fed Dave and Tim with pub food to save money. On the last night before we flew back to Houston, we took the Gatwick express from our B&B near the airport to London for a quick tour and dinner. I couldn’t find the restaurant I was looking for, but Tim and Dave found a Mexican restaurant. After a week of pub food the guys were dying for Tex-Mex. But I was skeptical. Mexican food in London? Sounds dangerous. But the boys insisted and we went in. Turns out the place was owned by a guy from Bellaire, Texas and the food was a pretty good version of Tex-Mex.

My original intent was to make just one film. As I began editing the interview footage it became clear that I either was going to make a three-hour movie or I was going to have to split the story into two films. I chose to do the latter with the split at WWII.

Tim Himes was so taken by his visit to England that, when he married shortly thereafter, he took his new wife there on their honeymoon.

I just want to say that making In The Octagon was the experience of a lifetime. I was so glad to have Dave Renner along with me to share the experience. The Houston MG Car Club was always supportive and helpful throughout the process, and I am so grateful to all who helped make these films become reality.

A Hot Night in a Cool Town

Sat, 21 Aug 2021 13:26:02 GMT

Summer nights in Texas are going to be hot. It’s a natural fact. So why not cool down with a late afternoon cruise, some live music, and a small town Texas party, joined by your car club companions?

That’s exactly what 17 of our members did on July 31 in Brenham as they participated in the Brenham summer concert series Hot Nights, Cool Tunes. The Saturday evening events also feature a car cruise and show sponsored by the Stray Katz Car Club. Dwight Dawson got the Stray Katz to reserve spaces for the Houston MG Car Club so that we could show off our English eccentrics among the street rods, pick-up trucks, and customs from the area.

The weekend affair began with a caravan starting at CyFair high school, where six of our cars got together to make the run to Brenham. Club members Alex Laverock and Linda, Jon Coon and Vicki Johnson (new members), Bob and Kim Chalker, Gordon and Angie Bard, and Shannon Hodell (also new), with his very original 1967 Sunbeam Alpine, followed Dwight west to Brenham.

Our gang followed a pleasant route through Bellville, past the small town of Kenney and into Brenham, where lunch was held at LJ’s BBQ. Fortunately, Dwight found out just before the drive that the planned lunch stop at the singular Kenney Store was not possible due to the restaurant only opening at noon. Both Scott and Trish Hardy and Brenham locals Tim and Pat Weeks joined the caravan at LJ’s, where BBQ was enjoyed by all and AC by all those who did not bring dogs. Sorry, Gord and Angie!

After lunch, the drive continued through Historic Downtown Brenham en route to Blue Bell Creameries, where we left the cars parked in the shade to partake of the famously cheap $1 Blue Bell sundaes. After a sweet treat, we left to sample the excellent craft beers at the Brazos Valley Brewing Company. We can report that these folks know what they are doing with malted barley, hops, yeast and water. After our libations, we pressed on to our hotels, where we crossed paths with the last members to arrive, Joe and Peggy Schrodi.

We had little time to rest because the downtown cruise started at 5:00, and after a brief wrong turn through the industrial underbelly of Brenham, we got back on route, enjoyed a relaxing cruise, and were guided into our parking spaces. Our group then had plenty of time to set up chairs in the shade and find some food at the food trucks parked around the courthouse.

At 7:00 pm, as the heat of the day finally started to melt away, the music started. The organizers had to scramble to bring in a back-up band after the Journey tribute band Escape cancelled at the last minute. However, the five piece band did a great job of rocking the crowd with a series of hits from the eighties. We all enjoyed the music and dancing as evening faded into night.

We checked out of the hotel on Sunday morning and headed back home. That trip was made more interesting for those heading to Houston by a jack-knifed tractor trailer that blocked all lanes on 290 East just past Chapell Hill. The Dawsons were a dozen cars back and chose the short return to Chapell Hill rather than wait for the wreckers. They found beautiful country roads back to Bellville and onto home. Everybody eventually made it safely home, showing once again that our cars are perfectly capable of giving us safe and memorable weekends, even in the height of the summer.

- Photos contributed by Dwight Dawson

President's Social Postponed

Wed, 11 Aug 2021 13:25:16 GMT

We are disappointed to announce that we will need to postpone the President's Social that was scheduled for August 28th. We are working to reschedule the event in October. More details will follow when they are available.

Rio Grande Valley Rendezvous

Mon, 26 Jul 2021 21:12:34 GMT

British Automobile Owners Association

31st Annual

Rio Grande Valley Regional Rendezvous

Ruidoso, New Mexico

September 17 - September 19, 2021

This 31^st Rendezvous will be in Ruidoso, nestled high (7000 ft) in the cool, Sierra Blanca Mountains of southeastern New Mexico. Events begin on Friday, but come early for hiking forested mountain trails, golf (located at the resort hotel), the high pines, and winding roads. Please visit the BAOA website at www.baoa.org for the schedule of events, registration, and accommodations.

Please note, this is not an official club event and is being posted as a courtesy to the organizers.

Honest Mom, Just One….

Mon, 26 Jul 2021 00:08:24 GMT

Annual HMGCC Picnic

Tue, 13 Jul 2021 23:58:49 GMT

The pictures in this article were supplied by David Dodd, and we are publishing them with our appreciation. The commentary is mine alone. While David actually attended the event, I was not able to do so, therefore my commentary may or may not reflect the reality of the day. But these days, with reality being abused daily, who is to say that my account is wrong? -Scott

The annual Houston MG Car Club picnic was held at Meyer Park in Spring, TX on a partly sunny, warm and mostly dry July 10. The much-anticipated event was hosted by club members Gordon and Angie Bard, who are notorious for dressing up for any reason at all and making any mundane occasion seem extraordinary. Club members thereby braced themselves for the sight of lunch being served by a giant woodland animal (beaver? squirrel? grizzly?) and were relieved to find that Gord elected to present himself only as a teenage girl. In the photo to the right, Gord (the cute one in the dress) takes a break from roasting cicadas spiced with his homemade habanero garlic rub.

Foregoing the traditional “blanket on the ground” approach, the rather more gentrified club members elected to enjoy their gourmet picnic meal on sturdy benches in a shaded pavilion. What better place to enjoy the culinary delights from the fertile imagination of Chef Gordon, including Texas specialties such as Armadillo Poppers, Roast Palestine Possum, Sauteed Brenham Wild Boar Tails, and Longhorn Skirt Steak braised in Dr. Pepper?

An MG is almost the perfect vehicle with which to drive oneself to a picnic. A cheap and cheerful motor is the ultimate conveyance for anyone who can’t afford to actually eat at a restaurant and therefore finds throwing a blanket on the ground with cheap cold cuts scrounged from home an acceptable alternative gustatory experience. And that blanket can be found in most of our cars, because it is a ubiquitous MG accessory, protecting the occupants from either the malfunctioning heater or the ill fitting side curtains / soft top. Picnics attract annoying insects and small rodents; ditto, the interior and wiring of just about any project MG. The following cars found the lure of the great outdoors irresistible, and even managed to start on demand and make it to Meyer Park. The big question – did they all make it home?

Another highlight of any HMGCC event is an address by our Beloved Leader, Mr. Michael Woodward. And the picnic was no exception. In the photo to the right, Chairman Mike regales the adoring throngs with an amusing anecdote from his upcoming book, “Minor Miracles: How to Keep a Morris Running Using Only Articles Purchased from a Dollar Store (Part 3)”.

And the main attraction – fun and games! After that embarrassing incident during Duck, Duck, Goose when Joe tore off his shirt, sprinted to the duck pond and dove in headfirst, our Beloved Leader led the assembly in the intricacies of Blindfolded Reverse Gear Slalom races. In this photo, you can see the fear on his face as his time is about to be bettered by Larry in his race tuned B-GT. Fortunately, Larry’s car lost power just before the finish, leaving victory befittingly in our Beloved Leader’s hands.

All in all, an excellent time was had by all, and tales aplenty will be told at future gatherings. Until next time – Safety Fast!

Driver Award Standings

Fri, 02 Jul 2021 23:13:55 GMT

Once again thanks to Greg for maintaining the records.

Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Houston MG Car Club

Fri, 25 Jun 2021 17:25:28 GMT

What a week the club has planned to celebrate our 50th Anniversary! Experience everything that our club stands for in one exciting week – cars, parts, drives, British fare, drink and most importantly, great friends to share the excitement! Here is a list of all of the great events planned with links to the event details and registration.

The week begins with the Free For All Swap Meet hosted by John Boyer on Sunday, September 5th, 2:00pm – 4:00pm. Remember one person’s junk is another person’s treasure. Free For All-Parts Swap, Sept. 5

On Tuesday, September 8th we will have a free showing of Inside The Octagon II (MG 1946-1980) at the Alamo Drafthouse at LaCentara (Katy). Show time will be 7:00pm. It is pretty cool that we are able to see classic MG’s on the big screen. We will be showing Inside The Octagon I on August 14th as well; don’t miss either of these great features created by our own Gary Watson. And remember, you can’t see these films anywhere else. They are not on YouTube or Netflix. Alamo Drafthouse-INSIDE THE OCTAGON II (MG 1946-1980), Sept 8

One of the favorite food of our friends in the UK is curry. To honor their passion for this spicy delight we will be hosting Curry Night – A Symphony of Flavors on Wednesday, September 9th, 5:00pm – 8:00pm at Noon Mirch in Webster, TX. Curry Night-A Symphony of Flavors, Webster, TX Sept. 9

The celebration wouldn’t be complete if we did not visit one of our favorite British establishments, the Richmond Arms. Join us for lunch on September 10th, 11:30am to 2:00pm to enjoy your favorite British fare and a pint of Old Speckled Hen. 50th Anniversary Week Luncheon, Richmond Arms, Sept. 10

The 50th Anniversary Party will be held on Saturday, September 11th, beginning at noon, at the Falcon Point Golf Club in Katy. There will be great food, friends and a few surprises. This event has limited capacity, so reserve your spot early. For those of you who are traveling from afar or who would prefer to stay locally we have reserved a block of rooms at the Holiday Inn & Suites near Katy Mills Mall. 50th Anniversary Party, Sept. 11

Following the 50th Anniversary party we will wrap up the week’s celebration with a drive to the Baker’s Street Pub. It is a short distance from Falcon Point, but we know some of you will want to exercise your cars a bit, so we will be laying out both a direct route and a more winding route to the pub. We will have a reserved area for us to enjoy one another’s company, swap stories and kick the tires a bit.

This is going to be a great week! Make sure you are registering for all of these great events!

Drive to Drippin' with the Austin Club

Tue, 22 Jun 2021 21:07:10 GMT

We joined the Austin MG Club on a Drive to Drippin’!

The second CCMGC drive of 2021 featured a tour of wineries around Dripping Springs, connected by the scenic back roads of the hill country. The muster point for the drive was on the southwest corner of Austin where everyone gathered and enjoyed some shade while they could. A total of eight cars (seven MGs and one GM!), sixteen people and four members of the Houston club showed up for the drive in what promised to be beautiful summer weather. We left for our first destination shortly after 10:30.

The first leg of the drive introduced the drivers to the turns and twists of hill country driving as we left the weekend shopping traffic behind and headed toward Dripping Springs. This leg of the drive featured the first two river fords, one of which enhanced the experience by having water flowing over the road. Splashing through the stream, we motored on to our first winery, Parmeson Wines, which opened early to offer the club a private tasting.

We gathered our cars in front of the tasting room to get the obligatory scenic shot together and moved into the air-conditioned comfort of the winery to make our drink selections. Trish Hardy pleased everyone’s pallet by providing a cheese and cracker tray to accompany our beverages. We enjoyed resting and chatting in the shade as we tasted the Californian cuvee.

The second leg of the drive was the longest and wound through the countryside between Dripping Springs and Wimberley. This segment featured several more river fords, including another wet one, as well as numerous cattle guards designed to test the compliance of our antique lever shock absorbers. Our cars were in their natural element in these narrow country lanes, and we had the roads pretty much to ourselves. After an hour of driving, we turned into the Wimberley Valley winery, where we again gathered under the shade of giant live oaks. This winery featured a fabulous food truck and drinks served from a double decker London bus. Several of our more parched and adventurous participants cooled off with the wine slushies they served.

After everyone ate and drank their fill, we headed off to our final destination, the Driftwood Estate winery. En route, we followed a heavily decaled 1960’s VW bug, which we figured was part of the Great Race 2021 that had stopped in San Marcos for lunch. Our hunch was confirmed when we saw a timing station further up the road. They shouted that we should join the race!

We parked in the shade and headed into the air-conditioned tasting room to cool down and choose a selection from their all-Texas wines. Gathering our drinks, we headed out to the shaded porch and enjoyed a final few laughs together. All agreed that it was a successful drive, combining great roads with good drinks, excellent food, and even better companions. To top it off, we had no mechanical failures despite the temperatures. As we drove home, we all looked forward to returning to Dripping Springs and our next club drive.

- Contributed by Scott Hardy. Photos by Scott Hardy and Gord Bard

Rick South, Carrie South and Trish Hardy
enjoy the views at Driftwood Estate Winery

Breaking News..

Fri, 18 Jun 2021 03:25:44 GMT

Ray Holtzapple takes first in class at MG 2021 in Atlantic City

Ray with Flat Bernard and his 1974 1/2 MGB GT Jubilee

June Monthly Meeting

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 17:04:43 GMT

The HMGCC monthly meeting in June was only our second face-to-face meeting since Covid restrictions started, but we made the most of it by taking the meeting on the road to Montgomery. Our meeting site, Ransoms Steakhouse and Saloon, was suggested and vetted by Bob Schroeder, who also generously agreed to be the guest speaker.

Club members started arriving around 11:00, and six members took advantage of the warm May sunshine to exercise their MGs for the drive. Smiles and chatting were first on the agenda as members greeted each other and embraced the new experience of seeing old friends in person. When the restaurant had re-arranged the tables for our use, we moved inside and ordered drinks and food while fearless leader Mike Woodward set up the microphone and audio.

The official agenda started at noon when Mike banged the gavel and the serious business began. We all quietly imbibed and enjoyed our meals while we approved the previous meeting minutes and engaged in a hearty discussion regarding plans for the 50th anniversary celebrations coming up in September. The conviviality (and the drinks) encouraged great ideas and volunteers for organizing future events.

One highlight of our monthly meetings is always the presentation of the guest speaker, and Bob Schroeder did not disappoint. He entertained the assembly with a mix of history and automobile trivia, such as the City of Montgomery being the birthplace of the Texas flag, the story behind various monikers given to convertible cars, how to bid at an auto auction, and the reason why later model MGBs have three miniature windscreen wipers.

Dwight Dawson reported that club membership has reached a record high of 179, and we were joined at the meeting by new members Charles and Cindy Still (1948 MG TC) and Delila Carlock (1960 MGA).

As always, we ended the meeting with giveaways and sharing our names and cars. Laughs, smiles and handshakes between the members accompanied our exit as we completed a fun filled day at Ransoms. We left with full stomachs and good memories as we looked forward to the next time we can get together.

- Contributed by Bob Schroeder. Photos by Bob Schroeder and Dwight Dawson

Driver's Award Standings

Fri, 04 Jun 2021 22:34:59 GMT

Dear All,

Please see current standings of the driver's award. As always many thanks to Greg for keeping up with this.

Safety fast!

Mike.

Spring GOF in Killeen

Fri, 04 Jun 2021 19:16:11 GMT

It may have been a year later than planned, but warm May temperatures and well-timed breaks in the clouds made for a delightful setting as the Spring Gathering of the Faithful finally took place Killeen, TX, home of Fort Hood and a new venue for the annual event.

Many of the HMGCC members travelled in style with an LBC convoy through Bellville and on to Kenney for a patio lunch and refreshments at the iconic Kenney Store.

Continuing our adventures a few more miles to the north, we stopped at the Blue Bell Creamery in Brenham. Each of us selected a personal flavor choice for a cup of the World's best ice cream. Our cultural caravan continued with a brief stop at The Downtown Art Gallery, one of many attractions in Historic Downtown Brenham with which members may not be familiar. (Shameless Plug - this Historic Downtown area will be our destination for a July 31 HOT NIGHTS / COOL TUNES event.)

Our caravan ended Friday evening in Killeen, where we parked our cars amongst the many other MGs and trailers and indulged in pizza and heavy socializing on the hotel’s back lawn.

The car show on Saturday morning was conveniently close-by at the Convention Center around the corner. With tons of room, at least 60 MGs of all description were on proud display. As usual at these events, we had the chance to discover little-known MG details and unique features. The wheel pictured was spotted on a right-hand-drive MGB at the show this year. Most of us have never seen these chrome Rostyle wheels. They were a factory option in the early 70’s but were discontinued in the North American Market due to excessive warranty claims that stemmed from the plating rusting through because of our penchant for using lots of salt on our roads. At the same time they became standard equipment on the other markets.

After enjoying a box lunch at the hotel, several of us ran the Hare and Hound Rallye which covered 40 miles of rolling and twisty countryside roads. This event required you to guess the proper direction to turn at every intersection, but also provided clues to keep you on course. The most creative run may have been by Trish and Scott Hardy. When they realized they were hopelessly off course, they wandered off down to Salado and found a vineyard for alternate entertainment.

The Saturday night banquet featured the traditional blue blazer and fancy hat photo shoot for participants, a matchbox derby race, and the ever popular silent and live auctions. After a delicious barbeque dinner, Houston members who received trophy recognition at the banquet included: Roger Sykes 1974 MGB-GT (won Premier Class and advanced to Octagon of Honor), Ray Holtzapple 1975 MGB GT Jubilee, Glenn Carpenter 1954 MGTF, and Scott Hardy 1972 MGB.

The clouds caught up with us on the ride home on Sunday, which featured light to very heavy rain depending on timing and route taken. Wet conditions are always a convenient method for verifying how all MG’s are water-tight-challenged. All things considered, this Spring GOF was a fun time with MGs and friends, both new and long-seasoned.

Houston Members participating in some or all of this weekend were:

Peggy and Joe Schrodi, Bob and Kathy Schroeder, Mike and Stephanie Woodward, Roger Sykes, Greg Fleischer, Ken Evesson, Past President and Brenham resident Tom Sturm, Trish and Scott Hardy, Linda and Terry Myers, Gordon and Angie Bard, Ray and Mary D. Holtzapple, Glenn and Fran Carpenter, Candy and Dwight Dawson, Flat Bernard, Nick and Julie Roccaforte, and new members Steve and Jackie Session, who promise to bring their MG next year!

- Photos and article by Dwight Dawson

50th Anniversary Celebration

Mon, 17 May 2021 01:16:29 GMT

Registration is now open for the Club's 50th Anniversary Celebration Party. The organizing committee, chaired by Rich Coldwell, has a wonderful afternoon planned with great food & drink, a bit of nostalgia and lots and lots of friendly chit-chat and laughter with old and new friends.

The event is scheduled for noon to 4pm, Saturday, September 11, 2021 at the Falcon Point Country Club. Following the event we will take a drive to a nearby establishment to continue the fun.

Attendance for the event is limited to 150 people so make your reservation early. The Club has grown significantly over the past two years now with over 175 member families. Because of this we are limiting attendance to two people per family. We want to give as many members as possible the opportunity to attend.

Don't wait - make your reservation now.

The Club's April Meeting Recording

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 17:44:43 GMT

Better late than never, please find a link to the recording for the Club's April meeting.

https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/9-0Ah4kzhShIzQkcgIhORiHKBBjzlcbbV1WERWK-Xlj_JY9kWwfIv7BgxPpTqTPy.RKfk6FUHpJk_oPgh Passcode: 9!rqImT8

Don't forget, beginning in May we will return to face to face meetings. Here is a link to register for the May Monthly Meeting.

2017 - 2020 Financial Summary

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 17:37:40 GMT

For club members who might be interested, we have just posted a summary of the club's finances from 2017 through 2020. You can find this information under the Members Only tab of our website.

Pro Tip

Tue, 13 Apr 2021 16:58:29 GMT

A Little Classic Car Humour

Sat, 10 Apr 2021 01:08:30 GMT

Dwight & Candy At The 1986 American MGB Association Convention

Wed, 31 Mar 2021 21:17:11 GMT

by Dwight Dawson

In 1985 Candy and I moved to Houston from Oklahoma. In 1986 we traveled to San Antonio for the national convention of the American MGB Association. A young John Twist and his wife were very active in the organization at the time The image below is from the fall 1986nissue of their publication The Octagon. This was the first MG show we ever attended and we snagged a 3rd Place award in the Concours d'Elegance. Our pewter plate is still somewhere in the house. I noticed recently that the 2nd place winner was Ed Malmgren with his 1974 MGB. Ed was the president of the Houston MG Car Club in 1982. We did not join the club until 1992.

Dwight & Candy's 1973 MGB is on the lower left

** Do you have an MG Story? We would love to have you share it with the club. To submit your own MG story send it to HoustonMGCarClub@gmail.com. Don't worry about being a great writer, we have editors who will help refine the writing. **

March Monthly Meeting

Mon, 22 Mar 2021 18:02:35 GMT

Please find the recording from the March monthly meeting:

https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/GYrthvIow5UNAq5AqPsyL4Zy4a3NDNW5n_NO6oLV7hoNViGDkaB_DJS18nImUJZ9.2lVxi4r9tJtDFsu9

Passcode: Gg1s?#YB

Congratulations Renne and Claire Lanphier

Mon, 22 Mar 2021 17:42:18 GMT

It is a pleasure to announce that our Board of Directors has approved Life Membership for Renne and Claire Lanphier. They drive a 1967 Sunbeam Alpine, in green, and were previously long-time active Members. In support of our Membership Chairman, Renne continues to faithfully prepare and distribute our handsome club name tags for new members. The Lanphiers reside in Manvel, Texas and we hope to see them and their Sunbeam soon.

Pub Quiz Extraordinaire

Thu, 18 Feb 2021 02:45:45 GMT

Did you miss this Saturday's Pub Quiz, well you can still challenge yourself with the questions as it was a virtual event and we were able to record it.

Enjoy!

https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/B5QWWTbABOOBd5MXiWPaahZoEgbK1l5j7C7rO5gs2o_8o5_3SkrzMAQJd_-WxPWu.vinejJzpYL2Y3ADF

Passcode: 8Q@eZH?a

February Club Meeting

Thu, 18 Feb 2021 02:42:29 GMT

If you missed the February Club meeting and would like to catch up on the happenings of the Houston MG Car Club, you can see it here. There is good news as we are slowly and safely returning to driving our cars, weather permitting - Yes, we know that is a big IF this year.

https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/GCc-Lks1rji1rrqubuIC5CUOw-z-6wbIjq75kjqex_S289hFECkX96E9nWZFM2NY.GMvee2AcIbI7I0Zm

Passcode: a?T#S!6d

John Oates Tours The MGB Display At The Lane Museum

Fri, 29 Jan 2021 01:31:04 GMT

The following video is of John Oates, of Hall & Oates fame, touring the MG exhibit at the Lane Automotive Museum in Nashville, Tennessee. Oates is a long time LBC fan and owner of a 1959 MGA Twin Cam.

January Monthly Meeting

Sat, 09 Jan 2021 16:14:35 GMT

Want to catch up on what happened at the January Monthly Meeting, you can watch it by clicking HERE.

Passcode: ?BTx9=Sj

Merry Christmas

Sat, 26 Dec 2020 03:17:39 GMT

On The Road With Flatt Nigel

Tue, 22 Dec 2020 22:34:14 GMT

Flatt Nigel was spotted in Sedona where he found a cure for COVID
that only works for him and other members of the Flatt family.

HMGCC Generously Supports Toys for Tots in 2020

Fri, 18 Dec 2020 14:43:19 GMT

On behalf of the Houston MG Car Club, Tony Galt delivered 40 toys to the Toys for Tots regional collection center in LaPorte this week.

Toys for Tots was founded by a Marine in 1957. The organization’s mission is to give donated toys to less fortunate kids during the holidays. The coordinator for Greater Houston Area Toys for Tots, Marine Staff Sergeant Eric Quesada, said that requests for toys this year are double that of previous years, and that “in almost every single one of those requests [is] something about job loss to COVID.”

Thank you to all club members who participated in bringing joy to needy children this 2020 holiday season.

Toys For Tots Update: It's Not Too Late To Give

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 13:54:16 GMT

On December 12, 2020 several members of the club came by Eats Mesquite Grill to drop off toys collected for the club's Toys for Tots campaign. Members present included Candy and Dwight Dawson, Trish and Scott Hardy, Angie and Gordon Bard, Ray Holtzapple, Greg Fleischer, John Blum, Glen Carpenter and Mike Woodward. Even Santa came by with a sackful of toys to help us out!

If you want to donate a toy to a child in need this Christmas, there is still time. Donations will be accepted through this Wednesday, December 16^th. Toys can be dropped off to the following club members:

Dwight Dawson - Near Northwest Houston, off West Little York

Tony Galt - Clear Lake

Ray Holtzapple - Midtown

Tim Weeks - Brenham

Mike Woodward - Sam Houston Tollway and West Road

*Addresses and phone numbers can be found on our website, MEMBERS ONLY tab.

It’s not too late. Please join with your fellow HMGCC members in supporting Toys for Tots this holiday season!

Club members Gordon and Angie Bard sharing the Christmas spirit

Christmas Party 2020

Thu, 10 Dec 2020 01:07:31 GMT

Everyone already knows why we held a virtual “Christmas party” on Zoom this year. As the photo reveals, the attendees of our December meeting were festive and a lot of fun. A competition was held, based on screen appearance, in three categories. It was a demanding task with so many creative contestants, but Judges Dwight and Candy Dawson named the following winners:

BEST CHRISTMAS SPIRIT: Bob and Kathy Schroeder

MOST CREATIVE: Scott and Trish Hardy

MOST OUTRAGEOUS: Joe and Peggy Schrodi

Each winning couple received a $25 Amazon gift certificate.

With so many worthy contenders, consolation prizes were suggested. Trish Hardy kindly offered to prepare a special Canadian Christmas treat for Gordon and Angie Bard. And all contestants will receive the recipe for that rare treat, a Canadian meat pie called Tourtiere.

We also announced the Club’s officers and board of directors for 2021. They are:

PRESIDENT: Mike Woodward

VICE PRESIDENT: Joe Schrodi

SECRETARY: Roald Lokken

TREASURER: Fran Carpenter

Newly elected DIRECTORS: Rich Colwell, Ron Redding, Bob Schroeder

It goes without saying that the Christmas party was not the same as it would have been with a roomful of 100 or so members, but we always find a way to have a good time. 2021 will be much better...

Merry Christmas!

To watch a replay of the party click HERE

Groesbeck

Mon, 07 Dec 2020 22:51:29 GMT

By Rob Ficalora, Photos by Angie Bard

I am, admittedly, very late in writing about the wonderful trip from Houston to Groesbeck over Labor Day weekend. Not officially an HMGCC event due to Covid, this trip started with a simple note on the club’s Facebook page posted by fellow member Gordon Bard. He simply posted to say he was planning to go to the inaugural Groesbeck Grand Prix and Concours and wanted to know who else was up for the trip. Before long, several club members and a few club prospects made plans to participate! We had a great time— and I’ll tell you more about that in a moment— but first I want to extend truly heartfelt thanks to Gordon and his wife Angie. Had they not put out the initial feeler, this trip would never have happened. And they went way above and beyond with great planning, including pre-checking a local hotel for availability and pricing, planning a great route, and even personally buying and making goodie bags for the participants! THANK YOU GORDON AND ANGIE. You did a phenomenal job!!

In addition to its being a driving event, one thing that attracted me to participate was that Gordon had planned the roughly 140 mile trip with only about five miles of highway. That meant some great driving roads, and what MG driver can pass up a chance to get out on the back roads?!

By trip day, twelve people in six cars including four MGs were planning to participate:

Gordon and Angie Bard

new members Cecil and Margaret Ellis

Ken Evesson and Carol McCoin

Mike Shouse

new members Bobby and Randy Nelson

Bryce Gunthrie, friend of the Nelson brothers

Rob and Shelly Ficalora.

On the morning of Saturday, September 5^th, the group congregated at the pre-designated Buckee’s in Cypress, a great location with ethanol-free gas for those who don’t run gas with ethanol in their cars. (NB: Ethanol can wreak havoc by deteriorating some rubber hoses and other materials and, because it absorbs water, can contribute to corrosion in the fuel system.)

As trips like this go, the group had the obligatory drama, but nothing serious. One driver had to bow out at the last minute and one car wasn’t running well—a problem solved by a quick trip to a local parts store for a new fuel filter. Special thanks to Greg Fleischer who came out to see us off.

My wife, Shelly, and I live north of Houston in Willis on Lake Conroe, so rather than drive down to Cypress, we’d arranged to meet the group in Navasota at the intersection of Highway 105 and Highway 6. With some time while the group was sorting out the fuel filter issue, we had a surprise opportunity to check out downtown Navasota. We drive by there all the time going to College Station but had never explored the town. It’s a nice half-day trip from Houston with some neat shops and a great coffee shop (that had ice cream, too!).

The rest of the trip was “smooth sailing” …for the most part. About 30 minutes outside of Groesbeck, however, it was truly “sailing.” We found the rain. And, when I say rain, I mean RAIN. I mean HARD RAIN! All of our cars, were hydroplaning and Ken and his wife didn’t have a top on their car so they were getting drenched. We didn’t know them and were worried about them, so were happy when the group pulled off the road to let the heavy rain pass. I was pleasantly surprised to find they were taking it all in stride and actually having fun! I knew then we were with a couple of real adventurists– especially given that they had entered the concours and would have to dry out and clean up their car before the show the next morning. Now that I’m thinking about it, Ken, I apologize for not offering to help!! For some reason that didn’t even occur to me then but seems like a horrible oversight now!

Once we arrived in Groesbeck, we all checked into the hotel and then headed over to the races— well, all except young guns Bobby, Randy, and Bryce, who had decided to camp out. The Groesbeck Grand Prix was not your typical race where the cars are on the track at the same time. Rather, it is a timed race where the “track” was the park road at Old Fort Parker Historic Site. The cars raced against the clock with one car going at a time. There were two classes; one for vintage race cars and one for more modern cars. It was a lot of fun, especially when we found a vantage point at the end of a long straight with a 90° curve at the end. More than one car found itself in the dirt trying to make that turn!

Saturday was time trials for the main event on Sunday. After watching the racing for a while, we decided it was time to go get dinner. We found a restaurant that happened to have great food. More importantly, it was a great opportunity to get to know each other in a way you never seem to have time for in one day events!

The next morning we grabbed a quick breakfast and headed over to the races again. We made our way through the fort where the cars were displayed, and managed to find Ken and Carol. I’m not sure what time they had to get up, but I know it was early as their beautiful MGA was already on display. It was a fun time getting to know the Evessons a bit better while watching the races.

We ultimately did have to return home, and headed back at about 3pm on Sunday. Again, I can’t thank Gordon and Angie Bard enough for planning and coordinating the weekend. It was a lot of work for them to plan the overnight trip, but such an opportunity to connect with folks wouldn’t have happened if the event had been packed into one day up and back.

Supporting Toy’s For Tots

Sun, 29 Nov 2020 02:08:09 GMT

The club’s Leadership has decided to once again help the local community during the Covid crisis. In this case, it is by providing toys for kids who would otherwise not receive a present at Christmas.

We are asking you to bring unwrapped toy(s) to one of our officers ’ homes between now and December 15. Alternatively, you can drop the toys off at Eats BBQ on Hempstead Rd.on Saturday, December 12 between 8:00 and 9:00 AM.

The collected toys will then be delivered to the Toys for Tots collection center on December 17.

These Leaders ready to receive your donations:

Dwight Dawson (Near Northwest Houston - off West Little York)

Tony Galt (Clear Lake)

Ray Holtzapple (Midtown)

Tim Weeks (Brenham)

Mike Woodward (Sam Houston Tollway and West Rd.)

(Addresses and phone numbers can be found on our website, MEMBERS ONLY tab.)

Thanks for your generosity and, Safety Fast!

Mike Woodward

President, Houston MG Car Club

Jane LaMaster 1934 - 2020

Wed, 25 Nov 2020 21:37:39 GMT

We are very sad to report that long time club member Jane LaMaster passed away on November 18th, a short 32 days after the death of her husband Cole.

Jane Ann LaMaster, 86, passed away Wednesday October 18, 2020. She was born on February 25, 1934 in New Carlisle, Indiana, the daughter of the late Dr. John E. Luzadder and Dorthy Dorland Luzadder. She was predeceased by Coleman LaMaster, her loving husband of 64 years, by one month and a day. She was a graduate of New Carlisle High School and Indiana University, Bloomington. She was noted for her intelligence (she was valedictorian of her High School and a member of the national education honorary Phi Lambda Beta in college) as well as her beauty (she was the Indiana University Homecoming Queen and Miss Indiana University in 1955). She taught school for several years, and then raised her and Cole’s two children. She was very sociable and loved spending time and chatting with her many friends. She and Cole lived in several locations around the U.S., including Indiana, Ohio, Minnesota, Florida and Texas. She and Cole travelled extensively, including throughout Europe, the Caribbean and China. She is survived by her son John (Betsy) LaMaster, daughter Kathy (ML Taylor) LaMaster, as well as numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren. Due to the current circumstances no memorial is planned at this time. Donations in Jane’s memory can be made to CanCare, where Jane volunteered for many years.

TECH SESSION: Cooling Systems Q&A

Sun, 15 Nov 2020 15:57:00 GMT

Yesterday's Q&A tech session on the MG Cooling System has been added to the Member's Only section of the website. If you missed it, go check it out by clicking HERE

One of the valuable benefits of club membership is our growing library of technical resources. There are videos, books, tools available and access to our area's leading experts. If you are not a club member click here to JOIN US.

The Mouse, The Man and The MGB

Sun, 15 Nov 2020 15:03:43 GMT

Are you looking for a stocking stuffer for you children or grandchildren? Here is a new book written by a fellow MG owner based on his real life experiences with a little mouse while working on his MGB.

Click on the book cover above to be taken to the book on Amazon.

1953 MG TD Available in Prescott, AZ

Tue, 10 Nov 2020 20:02:07 GMT

Club member Jim Early shared that Classic Cars Journal is featuring a 1953 MG TD for sale in Prescott, AZ. Check it out if you are looking to add to your stable of MG's. Click on the photo to learn more.

November Monthly Meeting

Tue, 10 Nov 2020 19:40:22 GMT

For those of you who missed this month's meeting you can catch up by watching it HERE:

Passcode: 0%1&6ZB=

More Than A Car Club

Fri, 06 Nov 2020 16:16:12 GMT

Thanks to our MGB Raffle this Fall, the Club was able to make a $2,000 donation to the Houston Food Bank. Development Director Amy Reagan was glad to receive the check from Ray Holtzapple, Dwight Dawson and Mike Woodward. This donation will provide 6,000 much-needed meals in our part of the World.

In Memory of Don Hayter

Fri, 06 Nov 2020 15:44:05 GMT

We have been remiss in not honoring Don Hayter, the last Chief Engineer of the MG Car Company, who passed away on October 9th at the age of 94. Don played a crucial role in the development of our beloved MGB.

Hemmings published an excellent article on Don's life and his career. Click Here

2021-22 Officer and Board of Director Elections

Thu, 05 Nov 2020 15:35:50 GMT

Your voting responsibilities are not yet done. The Houston MG Car Club 2020/2021 Officers and Board of Directors election will be open November 7 to 28th. As a reminder, each member family receives two votes, one in each of two separate polls. An email will be sent Saturday, November 7th with the voting information. You will also be able to access your ballot through a banner posting on the website's home page.

Ballot

The candidates are:

President:

Mike Woodward

Vice President:

Joe Schrodi

Secretary:

Roald Lokken

Treasurer:

Fran Carpenter

Board of Directors (3 positions open):

Rich Colwell

Cecil Ellis

Ron Redding

Bob Schroeder

Fred Whitla

You will be able to submit a write-in candidate by selecting "Other" and then typing in the candidate's name in the dialog box that will open. If you do choose to submit a write in we ask that you speak to that person first to confirm they are interested in fulfilling the positions responsibilities

TECH SESSION: Engine Tune Up

Tue, 03 Nov 2020 00:33:45 GMT

This past Saturday the club hosted a tech session, presented by member Gordon Bard, on how to successfully tune a MG engine. We are pleased to make a recording of the session available to all club members. To see the video go to the Tech Sessions page in the Members Only section of the website.

If you are not a club member but would like to take advantage of the many tech sessions, our library of MG related publications, our tool exchange program and the many other benefits of club membership, why not join us. It is easy to do, click on the Join Us tab at the top of the page.

40 Years Ago Today...

Thu, 22 Oct 2020 15:25:44 GMT

40 Years ago today, the last MGB was built in Abingdon, Oxfordshire

We Want Your Thoughts and Comments

Thu, 22 Oct 2020 15:12:56 GMT

Effective with this post the club has opened up the ability for club members to post comments to articles posted in The ROARS. We believe that the more interactive we can make the website the better it is for everyone.

The pages will be monitored and we ask that all comments are made with the same respect, due care and good spirit that defines our club membership. In appropriate postings will be removed.

Cheers,

Club Member Cole LaMaster Passes

Thu, 22 Oct 2020 15:09:18 GMT

We are very heartbroken to report that long time club member and past president Cole LaMaster has passed away. We have been told that there will be no public service and no memorials or donations are requested. The family has asked that there be no visits or calls to Jane.

Coleman LaMaster, 91, passed away Saturday, October 17, 2020. He was born on October 14, 1929 in Bloomington, Indiana, the son of the late Clarence and Kathryn Coleman LaMaster. He was a graduate of Indiana University, where he also received an MBA in 1956. He served as a 1st Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force. He worked in the propane industry, including as President of Pyrofax Gas Corporation and several executive positions at Texas Eastern Corporation. He enjoyed golfing, restoring and driving MGs and travelling extensively. He is survived by his loving wife Jane Ann Luzadder LaMaster, his son John (Betsy) LaMaster, daughter Kathy (ML Taylor) LaMaster, as well as numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

- Published in The Courier of Montgomery County from Oct. 21 to Oct. 22, 2020.

A Beautiful Day In The Neighborhood

Tue, 13 Oct 2020 18:04:37 GMT

By Dave Renner

It was a beautiful day in the neighborhood and Mr. Rogers, oops, Dwight Dawson, arranged a wonderful pop up car gathering for Houston MG Car Club members to enjoy the sunshine. Dwight got permission for us to park our MGs (and one stray Triumph) on the lawn at the White Oak Conference Center in Inwood Forest for a couple of hours on Saturday morning, October 10th. It was fun to see our friends and their cars while socially distancing during the Time of Covid.

MGAs, MGBs and an MG Midget shared the grass with the Triumph Spitfire provided a text book for Henry, a young lad from the neighborhood, who walked over and spent an hour or more talking to us about our cars. Henry was very knowledgeable about cars in general and keen to learn more about little British sports cars, asking many insightful questions about our British treasures and listening endlessly to our long and winding answers. We suspect we have a future MG or Triumph owner just waiting to come of age in northwest Houston.

We also had the pleasure of meeting Scott and Jennie (apologies for any misspelling of names), who heard about the gathering and brought their lovely 1956 MGA out for the morning. After living in Houston for two years, they seem eager to join the club and come to other gatherings as our restrictions, hopefully, are soon lifted. We extend to them a belated welcome to Houston and a hearty invitation to join the Houston MG Car Club family.

Driving MGAs were Ken Evesson, Jennie and Scott, and Dave Renner. Driving MGBs were Dwight Dawson, Greg Fleischer, Gordon Bard, Bob Chalker, Michael Shouse, Joe Schrodi and Scott and Trish Hardy. Driving the MG Midget was Joel Anderson and driving the wayward Spitfire was Mike Woodward.

Don’t miss the opportunity if our very own Mr. Rogers/Dawson suggests another pop up car gathering sometime soon.

October 3rd Meeting Recording

Sun, 11 Oct 2020 13:57:51 GMT

The following link will take you to a recording of the club's October 3rd virtual meeting.

https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/XhNgPBPOMxBrPmKU7JAdifvRX93kCNHnW90qItR7She1D5LkzMEoRS3TQXamZLtg.0dX-ZTbBGb5YqKvN

Password: .bP+G0?Y

MG Raffle 2020

Thu, 08 Oct 2020 19:27:24 GMT

By Dwight Dawson

Our first MG raffle was more successful than we expected. 32 members purchased 53 tickets, and we have doubled our planned donation to the Houston Food Bank to $2000. The winner, David Dodd, was selected at our live Zoom monthly meeting on October 3rd.

David and Betty Dodd have been members of the Club since June 2019. They have a 1978 MGB that they bought new in California. It has been a super car for them and overall a great experience. They have that emotional connection we often develop for an MG and can never sell it. Overseas assignments for David meant that the car sat in lonely storage for long periods. That car is now under restoration and will stay in the family.

The Dodds have two daughters and now, with the 1977 MGB they have won, there are more options for feeding the need for MG ownership in the family. David purchased two raffle tickets and was delighted to win. He will be working with member Ron Redding at 5RRestorations to finalize the acquisition. Ron took time to trailer the car from the donor, check it out, and store it for several weeks in advance of the October winner selection.

Congratulations to the Dodds!

LBC 2: Car Capers Continue in Calgary

Tue, 29 Sep 2020 14:23:17 GMT

By Scott Hardy

This is a continuation of the story Scott shared during week 10 of the Corona Challenge. Click here to read Part 1.

In the first installment, I introduced you to LBC III, our 1972 MGB, and his spiritual predecessor, LBC 1, my mother’s 1967 MGB GT. This episode highlights some of the many misadventures of LBC 2, the 2007 MINI Clubman that I bought for my wife, Trish, for her birthday in August 2007. Despite the 40 years and significant design differences separating these cars, they had much more in common than one might expect – namely, they both demonstrated an appalling indifference to their owner’s desire to be used on demand. Let me explain…

My early experience with British cars had demonstrated that 1) they were cute and quirky and lots of fun to drive, and 2) they were unreliable, rust-prone, and had a pronounced aversion to actually turning over and running. Admittedly, many of them were basket cases before I ever saw them, being owned by my teen-aged friends. But during my young adult years, the general trend remained the same, even as the cars I knew became newer and nicer. I am reminded of my friend who owned, in succession, an MGB, an Elan, and his crowning glory, a TVR 2500LM, before throwing in the towel and buying a Camaro Z28. The British car industry in the 70s and 80s did not cover itself in glory. Caught between currency and labor crises, the entire industry wracked, heaved, and finally contracted with the passing of many storied brands.

Around the turn of the century, many automotive giants hovered over the carcass of the British industry to pick off the best of the morsels remaining. One of the tastier bits was the legendary Mini, owned by the Rover Group in the 1990s. The Mini had been one of the brightest stars in British automotive history since its introduction in 1959. While the car was stale and technology challenged by 1994, the brand appeal of the name was still strong, so after BMW acquired the Rover Group in 1994, they discarded the entrails and introduced MINI as a BMW designed, British manufactured car line. The first models were offered for sale in 2001. While not universally loved, the new model payed pronounced homage to both the style and the driving/handling characteristics of the original. BMW had a minor hit on its hands, and MINI dealers sprouted adjacent to their BMW brethren.

By 2007, the second-generation MINI had been introduced, including a new Clubman model with a longer wheelbase, a third door, barn doors on the hatch, and a somewhat more commodious interior. This practicality appealed to me, and I figured that a good injection of German engineering and production expertise had probably banished many of the ills of the previous generations of British cars. Also, we were in desperate need of an automotive upgrade from our non-descript econobox, so I decided to order a Cooper S model, which was delivered on Trish’s birthday.

Almost immediately, things started to go wrong. Automotive malfunctions were seriously compounded by a dealer service department that was comically inept, which is why oil changes took five days (out of filters) and the installation of roof rack cross bars was performed using rubber mallets and a Sawzall. Seriously. At first, we focused on the failures of the service department, but it soon became clear that the car itself was a true throwback to the Lucas, Lord of Darkness era.

Emblematic of the troubles we had with LBC 2 was the time that Trish arrived back to the Light Rail Transit parking lot after a day at work to find that both windows were down and the sunroof was open. Knowing that she had not left the car in that state, she assumed that she had been the victim of car vandals. However, in what must surely count as a minor miracle, nothing was missing from the car. So she started the car and drove home after closing all of the open apertures.

She had barely left the transit parking lot when the sunroof opened and the windows lowered – all on their own. Which happened twice more on the five-minute drive home. She was worried about actually making it home, but she did, so she shut off and locked the car. As she left the garage, she heard a noise, and turned to watch the glass stubbornly retreating once again to the open position. That particularly strange malady required another week in the shop to fix.

The most persistent flaw, and one of the only dynamic flaws, was a stubborn engine knock. The noise was most evident in third and fourth gears when accelerating from relatively low rpms. We mentioned this to the dealer every time we saw them, which was to say, quite often. They investigated it every time, and their answer was always some variation of, “You’re not driving the car properly,” or “You’re not using the proper fuel.” Needless to say, the noise never went away.

Actually, I just misspoke. The noise did go away, in a most spectacular fashion. We were on vacation in British Columbia, driving on a rural highway, when a loud BANG! shook the car and the engine immediately lost power. It did not entirely stop running, but it clearly had suffered mortal damage, and an orange Check Engine icon was glowing on the dash. We gleaned from the manual that orange meant to proceed at slow speed to the nearest dealer, which we discovered was in Kelowna, still over 60 miles away. So we made our way there as best we could while running on no more than two cylinders.

A couple of nail-biting hours later, we pulled into the dealer, where we learned the next day that there was a hole in a piston. Fortunately, we were a scant 3,000 miles short of the 50,000 mile powertrain warranty, so this mechanical outrage was covered. Ultimately, the last drive we ever made in that car was to drive it back to Calgary to trade it in (at a criminally low exchange) to the dealer where we had bought it. Thus, the conclusion of our frustrating experience with LBC 2. And for us, a question of how we would get our automotive jollies in the future. So stay tuned for the story of LBC III.

Part 3 of the story coming soon...

Speaking the Queen's English

Tue, 29 Sep 2020 14:17:51 GMT

On September 26th, the club hosted our 2nd Pub Quiz, if you would like to learn more about speaking the Queen's English take a listen.

https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/FG-ycrwLKbCQ8UbWPBtUwFtkDdyaF9yS44LpYhZTdzi-I5IioxJotRDTHRBw3ZQA.YImVIrwGzpz3hhEJ

Passcode: 6R!hm1?D

Lucas the Prince of Darkness Strikes Again

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 12:45:39 GMT

By Mike Woodward

It was the first time we had taken our newly acquired MGB LE (“Ellie”) out at night as we set off for the MG Club monthly meeting, back when it was a live meeting held at Christie’s Steak and Seafood on Westheimer. According to our satnav (GPS for the colonials) the Beltway had a major wreck and so it was navigating us around the back streets of west Houston. As it was winter time and a dinner meeting, it started to get dark and so I turned on the headlights to see where we were going. Then, would you believe it, the GPS that was plugged in to the cigarette lighter stopped working!

I turned off the headlights and the GPS came back to life. Now what to do? Drive in the dark with no headlights, or pray we somehow find our way through divine guidance with the headlights on but the GPS off? We opted for the latter and surprisingly found our way on to Westheimer and subsequently to Christie’s. The trip home was uneventful as by then the Beltway was open and I knew the return route.The following weekend it was out with the multimeter to determine the cause of the electrical problem, which turned out to be the “typical” poor ground connection at the back of the dash.

For anyone faced with a similar “Prince of Darkness” problem, the multimeter, shown in the photo is available through the club’s loaner tool program. - Safety fast!

Unstoppable Us

Fri, 18 Sep 2020 02:46:37 GMT

by Dwight Dawson

What do 140 members of the Houston MG Car Club do in the middle of a global pandemic? Surely there is some grousing about “nothing to do,” and “why can’t I find an initiative in this club to amuse me and make me smarter about my MG?”

To the credit of our stalwart President Mike Woodward, there has been a lengthy list of “virtual events” to engage members who are interested and willing to educate themselves on how to Zoom. Examples of these internet situated activities can be seen on the website under EVENTS. Given that the average age of most active Club members is in the “endangered age group,” there can be no face-to-face gatherings that put people in harm’s way. And while nobody can argue that we must never complain or be unhappy about the way things are in our MG World, complaining doesn’t change anything except perhaps the exacerbation of already foul moods. The many virtual events that Mike has arranged, designed and expertly emceed have included Tech Sessions, Pub Quizzes, a Jeopardy Game, a Virtual Car Show, and monthly Member Meetings. Remember, Zooming is not what he signed up for but he does it!

As in pre-Covid days, not everyone can attend every event. However, an increasing number of us is taking advantage of these digital venues. Perseverance in the shutdown-ness in which we now live enables the willing individual to learn a new factoid to two about MGs and their care. Topics have included detailing and preparing your MG for a show, appropriate lubricants to use in our ancient autos, and dealing with electrical glitches.

This past Saturday, September 12th, about 25 folks tuned into our Zoom session on tires, (or tyres as Mike and Stephanie would spell them). Miles Sandy, the son of long-time member Pete Sandy, was the featured special expert on the subject of the four steel and rubber round things that we rely on when the engine starts and the clutch engages. Miles is the manager of a Discount Tires facility at SH 99 and Westpark. He shared his expertise on wire wheels and many other tire/wheel details that are unique to MGs and other vintage autos. Interestingly, Miles knows a lot what he does because he assisted his father in MG racing and other activities that required roadworthy tires and wheels. President Mike managed to direct this latest tech session even whilst (my new favorite British word) he and Stephanie were cavorting around the state providing grandparent childcare relief for their three daughters and sons-in-law. It was a great session and another one that has been recorded and available to all on the website.

All things considered, we will all recognize the pandemic as a perfect time to begin that challenging project or difficult learning that you always wanted to accomplish. Our Club’s virtual events are a good place to start toward your breakthrough accomplishment. The virus has certainly not stopped us. When the time is right, we will rejoin fellow MG enthusiasts with a new appreciation for pressing the flesh and being in the actual presence of others with shared interests. Maybe we’ll look back and laugh… maybe not.

See you soon for another Pub Quiz on September 26th. Your minimum contribution is to prepare your very own favorite libation, just for attending. Cheers!

Tire & Wheel Tech Session

Sun, 13 Sep 2020 12:44:18 GMT

Dear All,

Here is the recording of the Tech Session :

https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/W7WpNVxXCm9TxbNk33ErZgmTxW6SBwgPZPLImzoyM0rWq5AfAP5C8S8fd3QE9HtS.KJ-DjrsLw_jCAdxV

The password is : N&=Czz7N

Here is Miles's card :

Here is the Powerpoint :

Tire Wheel .pptx

Safety fast!

Mike.

Serving Locally With A Global Reach

Sat, 12 Sep 2020 21:01:08 GMT

We all know that the Houston MG Car Club serves our local members well, but you may be surprised to learn that there are people from around the world who are visiting our website. Through Google Analytics we are able to see where our visitors are from. Of course, the top country is the U.S. and as you would expect the country with the second most visitors is Canada. But from there it gets interesting. The next three are the United Arab Emirates, China and the UK. We have also had visitors from other unexpected locations such as Argentina, Philippines, Turkey and Russia (hope it wasn't to influence the vote of our club elections).

Here are the top countries from where we have had visitors to our website:

USA
Canada
UAE
China
UK
Japan
Netherlands
Australia
France
Germany
Argentina
Brazil
Philippines
Mexico
India
New Zealand
Finland
Turkey
Denmark
Singapore
Belgium
Italy
Russia
Hong Kong

September Monthly Meeting Recording.

Sat, 05 Sep 2020 16:31:24 GMT

Dear All,

Here is the link for the Sptember monthly meeting :

https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/SxB97GXfovGA1Upvtb5vFZS0kEG02zDAF1Tm-jY2_wRykHX_ABMHJHL8uB9iJHNn.YitYrim3S9KXNG12

Password is : 9N?%p#DA

Safety Fast!

Mike.

Growing Like A Bamboo Sprout

Thu, 03 Sep 2020 04:00:06 GMT

Well, maybe not that fast, but our club is growing, we are now at 140 members with 10 new members joining us in the last month. We look forward to welcoming them all in person when we get beyond these crazy time and begin having in person events and driving our cars.

Sept 3, 2020 UPDATE: we added another member today, bringing us to 141 members, 11 in the last 30 days. Isn’t it awesome to be part of a dynamic organization.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Sun, 30 Aug 2020 14:19:50 GMT

We have added a Birthday field to the profile page. If you will share this information with us, we would love to celebrate your special day with you.

To add your birthday to your profile, click on the blue man icon at the top of the page, this will take you to your profile page. Click on "EDIT PROFILE" opening the page for editing. Page down to the Birthday field, near the bottom and simply add your birthday.

Rupes Polishing System Recording

Sat, 15 Aug 2020 16:53:10 GMT

For those of you that missed the Tech' Session today the password is :

&WK?evK9

Here is the link:

https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/z_FPIbX87HtOe4XS9h3ZC5YwTrS8eaa8hiRP_PZYxUf6Mgi2GdtiKyTZxOIRpIUr

Founding Member Frank Glass Has Passed

Wed, 12 Aug 2020 14:05:07 GMT

We received word today that a Founding Member of the Houston MG Car Club, Frank Glass, has passed away at age 89. Frank recovered from serious illness some years ago and subsequently acquired his final MG, a wonderful 1937 Tickford VA. This very attractive old MG was shown and dazzled us at our All British Expo a few years ago.

Frank was an active member in the 70’s and 80’s and served as Club President in 1987. We so appreciate his contributions to the MG World and will miss him. Further details may be posted as they become available.

Frank Ray Glass, 89, of Grimes County, passed away peacefully in his sleep on August 11th 2020 at Colonial Oaks Assisted Living in Katy, Texas. Frank was born in San Angelo, TX, but has been a long time resident of Houston and neighboring counties for most of his life. He is a 1953 graduate of The University of Houston School of Architecture and was a member of Sigma Nu and the Frontiersmen. He has been employed with several firms, most notably, Better Homes and Gardens Magazine in 1960 and was the Chief Architect of Public Works for The City of Houston from 1989 – 1996. He was honored by the city in 1996 when he retired. Frank moved to Grimes County in 1997 and served as their Commissioner from 1998-2002. He was an active member of the Grimes County Republican Committee.

Frank was a founding member of the MG Car Club of Houston and served as President for a term. He has 4 antique MG cars in his personal collection.

Frank was also a long time member of Planters Lodge, number 147, located in Plantersville, TX. He was a lifetime member of the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo and served on the parade committee. Frank served as a Field Artillery Sargent in the Army National Guard from 1949 – 1952

Frank is survived by his three children; Forrest Glass of Abilene, TX, Melissa Hanst (Glass) of Houston, TX, and Michael Glass of Katy, TX. He is also survived by 6 grandchildren; Brian Glass, Laura Parker (Glass), Cody Glass, Elizabeth Glass, William Hanst, and Amanda Hanst. Frank is also survived by 2 step-grandchildren; DL Gibson and Celia Orcutt. Frank is also survived by 6 great grandchildren.

1948 MG YA Saloon

Sun, 09 Aug 2020 13:51:13 GMT

There is a nice project car on Bring A Trailer today. Wouldn’t it be great to have this car refurbished to it’s former glory and belonging to the club.

https://bringatrailer.com/listing/1948-mg-ya-saloon/

1977 MGB Raffle

Tue, 04 Aug 2020 02:09:24 GMT

For raffle, to support the Houston Food Bank, is a 1977 MGB with purple finish and a standard four speed transmission.

Must be a member of the Houston MG Car Club to participate.

CLICK Here To Purchase a Ticket

The car has a clean title and is currently registered with Texas Antique plates. A bill of sale along with the title and registration will be provided with the car. The car has recently had the following replaced:

1. Seat coverings, as original, and carpet.

2. Vinyl soft top.

3. Weber downdraft carburetor.

4. Battery.

5. Pertronix distributor.

6. Fuel pump.

The car is visibly rust-free and the engine turns over freely but currently will not start. The car is being offered in "as is” condition and no warranty of any kind is given or implied. The car is covered and stored and must be picked up at the 5RRestorations shop in Brookshire.

For more information click HERE.

August Monthly Meeting Recording

Sat, 01 Aug 2020 16:31:25 GMT

Dear Members and Friends,

The recording of the Monthly meeting and Gordon's Powerpoint presentation are shown below. The password for the meeting is :

?nQ5wH7.

Safety fast!

Mike.

https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/yux4MvLhxjNLYIHT2UvBR-kbQqn0X6a80SFI_PcNzhnEbMB7Pig2fKGdsMSbplA_

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1AODX4F9Kx8RfplcMpUoTPNponD7Vfpn7uURL8Hl-9Bk/edit#slide=id.p

Houston Food Bank Thanks Us.

Wed, 29 Jul 2020 16:42:10 GMT

Below is the letter from the Houston Food Bank.

Safety fast!

Mike.

The Fall of the British Auto Industry

Thu, 23 Jul 2020 14:42:43 GMT

The attached Youtube video graphically presents the rise and fall of automotive production around the world. It was most likely developed to show the changes among the U.S., Germany, Japan and China, but it also demonstrates how the British auto industry has collapsed since the 1950's.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kZCeuTzc850&list=WL&index=18&t=26s

Cartober Show Cancelled

Tue, 21 Jul 2020 15:57:33 GMT

The cancellations keep rolling in...

2020 TMGR Fall GoF Is Cancelled

Mon, 20 Jul 2020 14:39:25 GMT

In response to further COVID-19 issues, the TMGR leadership has cancelled the 2020 Fall GoF in Palestine, TX, originally scheduled for October 15-18, 2020.

Wayne Kube has cancelled the hotel reservations for everyone who registered under the TMGR special price rate at the Holiday Inn Express in Palestine. Nothing else is needed on your part; however if you do want to get a cancellation confirmation number, you can call the hotel directly.

We have rescheduled this event for October, 2021 – the Good Lord willing and the COVID don’t rise! Exact date TBD.

Safety Fast (or Safety Faster, depending on your MGB!)

Your hosts,

Wayne Kube

Jeremy Youngblood

Nick Pappas

Electrical Problem Tech' Session Recording

Sun, 19 Jul 2020 13:38:44 GMT

Dear All,

Below is the link to the recording of the electrical tech'session held on 7/18/20.

The password is : 3J*2u@@

Safety fast!

Mike.

https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/--NoLqCqzmBLTavp7VPdVvIzMoLqX6a81Ccbr_BcxR5NGIP-TxqfnbWCdoVmq54P

The National Corvette Museum Wants a MG TA, TB or TC

Fri, 17 Jul 2020 18:54:02 GMT

We received the following notification from a member of the New England MG T Register:

The National Corvette Museum (www.CorvetteMuseum.org) in Bowling Green, KY wants a MG TA, TB and a TC to display in its museum. The museum displays the continuing the history of the Corvette (past, present and future) and it looks at the Corvette’s influences, competition and significance in automotive history as America’s sports car.

The MG has been called “The Sports Car America Loved First.” America did not have anything like a MG in the ‘40s. GIs saw MGs during and after WWII in England and started bringing the little sports cars back to America. The first SCCA sanctioned race was held about noon on October 2, 1948 in Watkins Glen, NY on public roads. A local named Cameron Argetsinger, who had a new MG TC, organized it. Eight of the ten cars to finish that first race were MGs.

MGs were an important part of starting sports car races in America. They were quick and fun to drive during the week, and race on the weekend. And they were affordable. Sports car races started drawing crowds of many thousands to Watkins Glen, Elkhart Lake and other public road courses. Harley Earl, a vice president at GM, saw those sports car races, the crowds and MGs. He realized that GM needed a sports car, so he formed a team to secretly design and build one – the Corvette.

Because MG played an important part of sports cars in America and in the creation of the Corvette, the museum has a display with a TC on loan, but the museum wants to have a permanent MG on display. They are looking for a donation of a MG TA, TB and a TC.

What is going to happen with our beloved MG Ts when we are gone? In recent years I have sadly helped heirs fix and sell their dad’s old MG because they do not want them. Is this what you want to happen to your MG? How about donating it to the National Corvette Museum which is a 501 (c) (3) organization knowing that your MG will have a resting place in history and be looked after?

Please think about where you want your MG to go. Do you want to leave a legacy for many generations to see, admire and learn about?

Contact the Director of Collections and Curator of the National Corvette Museum: Derek@CorvetteMuseum.org or Leah@CorvetteMuseum.org.

Story by Russ Sifers of the KC MG Car Club. Photograph by NCM. MG TC on loan from Bill Richey of Bowling Green, KY.

July Monthly Meeting Recording

Sun, 12 Jul 2020 18:18:05 GMT

Dear All,

Below is the link for the recording of the monthly meeting, for which the password is : 8G?24%LP.

Safety fast!

Mike.

https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/-uNSfrHa23lIbc_h1UbxV4IHBNT6eaa8gCZL-vMOz02XyayroaVSl0tIC08FO5j5

Flashbacks From Long Time Member Wayne Hardy

Fri, 03 Jul 2020 20:35:49 GMT

By Wayne Hardy

My first MG is an MGB roadster that we still own and has been in use over the years since I got it back on the road in 1988. It took two years of work and it is now in semi-regular use. I bought this B in 1986 for $200 from a garage sale in Missouri City TX. Picked it up Thanksgiving weekend of 1986, and Isabel felt for sure that I had paid too much. It was in pretty sorry shape. Working on it became a Quest…not a hobby spare-time thing. I had it pretty much done by Easter 1988, but was putting in about 40 hours a week working on it. Yes I had a job; this was an additional 40 hours/wk. It's just not a show car class winner any more. I have driven it more than 75,000 miles since I finished the restoration project

I discovered and joined the Texas MG Register (TMGR) in 1989 and then found the Houston MG Car Club (HMGCC) in 1990 after visiting the first Houston All British Motor Vehicle Expo (HABMVE) at Traders Village. This was the beginning of many years of MG ownership. In 1991, as members of HMGCC, we showed our B but only got a third place in chrome bumper class. We made a bunch of HABMVEs after that, showing the B, our first ZB Magnette sedan, our third MG, an MG Midget and finally our second Magnette.

The Midget was going to be a racer when I bought it, but was just too nice to cut up like was needed then for racing. Instead I turned it into lovely little hot rod by lowering it, building a really sporty motor of about 1340 ccs, and finally putting a 5-speed adaption from a Datsun sedan into it, which made it better for highway cruising.

The first ZB and the Midget both were shown at and participated in HMGCC events, and we won some trophies, too. I even ran the ZB Magnette sedan in a couple Jaguar Club autocross events and won a couple 1st in class trophies with it. It helped that they were never sure how to classify it. When we sold that Magnette, it first moved to Iowa, then all the way to the Seattle area. When we sold the Midget, it just moved down the road 15 miles away. We then started again with another ZB Magnette sedan. That one we kept for 14 years, showing it at a number of HMGCC car shows, some TMGR GOFs and the like.

In 1996, while at a Fall GOF in College Station, I discovered vintage sports car racing nearby via the Corinthian Vintage Auto Racing (CVAR) club. Over the next 22 years my wife and I got involved with this bunch in a pretty big way. Isabel worked in race control, while I worked on corners, as starter, on the grid, was flag chief two different times, ran fast pits and the penalty box for about five years and finally worked in Tech Inspection area for a couple years— which also involves the opportunity to be the pace car driver for a variety of different vehicles as well as my own. After fellow HMGCC member Ed Rosenquist yielded his duty at College Station as pace car, I had a couple goes there too in the pace car at CVAR races at New Orleans LA, Hallett OK, and at three or four other tracks in Texas including College Station's "Texas World Speedway."

The HMGCC big fall show kept moving farther and farther away from me. It seemed that we always had a big race weekend out of town on the same weekend as the show. I did make the show when I could and was even included in Gary Watson's Inside the Octagon video documentary representing the sedans side of the MG Car Company business.

In 2000 I was offered an early out by my company (Temple-Inland Forest Products Corp. in Diboll TX) at the age of 62, so jumped at it. I started to attend other racing events around the country at tracks I hadn't visited in many years, or had never visited. I went to the PittsburgH vintage race conducted on park roads through a beautiful city park…what a hoot that is; went a number of times to Mid-Ohio in Mansfield OH, and Road America in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin. I took my son and sometimes his girlfriend with me to these functions, too, and we made some wonderful friends in Ohio that we keep in touch with all year. We also found a source for some really good blueberry Moonshine in Ohio as an extra.

So we stayed busy, working six CVAR race events a season and attending two or three others as spectators. I was also the local paper correspondent for the NASCAR race in Ft. Worth for the first ten years of that event while hitting the World of Outlaw dirt track races in Baytown or Kilgore a couple of times each summer.

In 2005, a friend introduced us to the Antique Auto Clubs Texas Tour event in the springtime. These events feature 2-1/2 days of driving and visiting interesting places and things (like the nuclear power station at College Station run in part by A&M engineering), followed up with a shiny car show, only allowed for judging if you make the drives successfully. We've done these in both the ZB sedan and the MGB when it became old enough to be allowed...30 years is expected age of entrants. After doing six of those events, I decided last year that these end of May to early June events were becoming too much of an endurance contest for us (I was then approaching 81 years of age), due to the heat in south and central Texas.

We sold the Magnette to HMGCC member Ron Redding, as he had asked many years ago to be on the list when we decided to sell. We had enjoyed it for the best part of 15 years. For the purpose of doing more of these multi-day touring events we went looking for a replacement automobile, one old enough to be allowed in as an antique, but with air conditioning. We wanted to make it less of a survival contest; yet still interesting enough to be a possible trophy winner.

We purchased a 1988 Special Anniversary edition Corvette to drive in the autocross. It is one of only 2023 made by Chevrolet and is important because this was an anniversary issue model celebrating 35 years since introduction in 1953 of the first Corvette. This is the all-white version and at the time was a nice expensive option. The Triple White treatment car came with white paint, white powder coated wheels, and white leather interior. They were all intact in this car. It had only 50,000 miles on it at the time we bought it, having mostly lived in a warehouse up in Arlington TX. This one had all the bells and whistles including a good GM air conditioning unit.

I had to start a little re-commissioning of this vehicle as it really hadn't been out and about very much in years. The run at the autocross admittedly was leisurely to say the least. My first time out was to drive to and from the event and make four runs on the course with no glitches…making headway. Then came this COVID mess and all driving tours were cancelled until further notice. Rats!!!!

What we've been thinking of doing is organizing our own little several hours driving rallye event up here in the cool piney woods for the Houston club members so inclined to actually use their shiny cars. We have lots of lovely hard surfaced roads up here, quiet with no traffic, scenic and not usually visited by casual travelers. We think we'll put together a little 5-10 minute video of what to expect and see if we get any takers. Half a dozen cars would be good, but more is better. There are lots of inexpensive motels between here and Lufkin for folks who want to do the overnight thing. And there are plenty of places to dine in Lufkin, including a really good Roadhouse near here with good food and adult beverages available, and lots of room for safe spacing of people.

Anyhow, we haven't died and we do still do car stuff, still pay our dues, and do make an occasional event of the HMGCC...like the recent autocross event at the cops driving school a couple months ago. There ought to be a story in here somewhere.

Picture credits: Here's a collage of pictures of my MGB in use over the years since it went back on the road. There are a couple of images from Jaguar club autocrosses we used to run at the HABMVE gatherings and one picture of the B leading the convoy over to downtown Montgomery, Texas at the fall Gathering of the Faithful (GOF) in 1997. Finally, there is a picture of it on display after completing a Texas Tour event. This event included a 2-1/2 day drive followed by a shiny car show with the Antique Automobile Club of America in Tomball. Funny thing is I don't remember seeing any other HMGCC folks at any of these driving events except maybe the Fall GOF at Lake Conroe. I've also got a picture doing pace car duty at Texas World Speedway in College Station, up on the High Banks at the "NASCAR" turn 1, that someone else took of me and the B, in 1996 or 1997, when I first went to the vintage car races out there.

Detailing Tech Session Recording

Mon, 29 Jun 2020 19:29:01 GMT

Below is the link to the recording of the Tech session on detailingheld on Saturday June 27. Password is 1Y?cGE=+

Safety fast!

Mike.

https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/5eVbIOzt1DNJR4nWtkznX60bTtu8X6a803BMrPcMyRMEGDB_XxwtuEvi9m9hJsg

MaryJo Rutstein

Sat, 20 Jun 2020 12:44:57 GMT

Longtime Houston MG Car Club member Harvey Rutstein sent this very sad message to the club concerning the passing of his beloved wife MaryJo. Our deepest sympathies are with Harvey and the family.

“For information for the club, my wife MaryJo passed away this weekend on June 14, 2020. She recently developed stage 4 cancer. MaryJo was determined to make it to our 50th anniversary on June 13th. All three of our children and our six grandchildren were at our home while MaryJo was in hospice at our house. I will see everyone at some time in the future.”

Derek Scovell (1931-2020) Safety Fast!

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 20:02:21 GMT

Derek and Hilary Scovell joined the HMGCC in November 1977 and remained active members from then on. Derek made many contributions to the club, serving as President in 1991. After bravely fighting difficult health circumstances for several years, Derek passed away on June 16, 2020 at the age of 89. He died peacefully at home after a short time in hospice care.

In memory of longtime Houston MG Car Club member Derek Scovell, we are re-publishing an article from 2013 recalling Derek’s love of racing and cars of all sorts. His was the fourth article in the series, Racing Stories – Memories of Houston MG Car Club members. Derek died this week but his legacy and larger than life personality will live on.

From MGs to a Power Scooter

by Derek C. Scovell

I have been a motor car racing Enthusiast for about sixty years, which includes our years ‘learning’ to drive a race car. When we returned to the States in 1976 after working in Singapore, I was hoping to get back into racing but SSCA required going to their school and buying a suitable car. Work and frequent overseas travel made it not possible so I purchased a MGC and joined the Houston MG Car Club and, as they say, the rest is history.

Racing in the UK

In the mid-fifties I was living about 30 miles from London and at this time there were about six racing teams within ten miles where one could poke your head in the door and see what was going on. This was a time when UK racing was top news with drivers like Moss, Hawthorne, Steward, Brooks and teams like Jaguar, Aston-Martin, Lister, Vanwall and Cooper. So the racing car bug bit me.

After attending many race meetings in the UK and owning three MGs, a 1932 J2, a 1948 TC and a TD Mark II at one time or another, I decided to purchase a new 1957 A-H Sprite Bug-eye when this car was first announced with the intent to go club racing. I obtained a RAC Restricted License and joined the British Automobile Racing Club (BARC), which organized most of the racing in the UK.

This car was fitted with an 849cc engine, and for its size it was fairly quick in those days. My car was stripped of upholstery and other items and the engine was modified. Changes included machining the head, re-bored to 998cc, putting in a racing cam and exhaust system. Even with the suspension changed to Koni shocks, heavy roll bars and intermediate racing tires it was not really competitive.

Biggest mistake

However, my biggest mistake was trying to use the car for everyday use and then try to race it at weekends. In those days for club racing, drivers’ roll bars and Nomex suits were not required; you just had to wear an approved helmet. I raced the Sprite for only one season and entered five events with no success, three times at Goodwood, once at each of the club circuits at Brands Hatch and Silverstone. My best finish was 10^th out of about 30 cars. I put the car on its side once by going too fast in a corner at Goodwood with no major damage and managed to drive the car home, slowly. I prefer longer races more than 10 lap sprints.

At the end of the season I ran out of money to continue racing. However, I had three interesting contacts during the year.

A girl and John Cooper

The first occurred because of a girl I was dating at that time. Her parents were very friendly with Charlie and John Cooper and during one of their test period at Brands I was ‘invited’ to drive one of their Formula II cars. It was good experience but I somehow did not feel comfortable driving a single seat car, and with a double declutch gearbox, this may be the reason for my uncompetitive lap times. At least this is my excuse

The second was meeting Bob Brown, who sponsored Mike Hawthorn at the start of his career. Bob wanted me to buy a Formula Ford race car, which they would maintain, service and prepare for racing. I didn’t have the money to do the deal.

The third opportunity occurred during a speed trials event when I was given the chance to drive an Allard coupe with a Cadillac engine, magnesium body and a Wilson-Cortex electric gearbox. To change gears in this transmission, you selected the next gear by moving a small lever up or down, then when you wanted to change gear you pressed the clutch.

In the winter months of 1958 I became involved in rallying as a navigator using an early Mini (849 cc). We did three all-night rallies, starting at 6pm on Saturday night and finishing at noon the following day with two breaks for food, etc. We finished each rally, though without any success. We did see a lot of country roads in England and Wales.

Racing in Singapore & Malaysia

In 1967 I was offered employment in the USA. Then in 1971 I was one of five staff assigned to build and open a new shipyard in Singapore. Although I had use of a company car, Hilary and I decided to purchase a used 1970 Australian built Mini-Cooper S and joined the Singapore Motor Club. It was supposed to be a run-around car, but soon I started to compete in local hill climbs, though without much success.

I found there was some interesting club racing in Singapore on closed streets and the same in Malaysia. At Kuala Lumpur there was a very interesting race track. This circuit was about 1¾ miles in length with a series of non-straight line corners, a ½-mile straight, a 180-degree tightening corner and a one-car chicane. The pits were very good. Unfortunately this circuit has now been closed to make way for a larger, new GP circuit.

Having been bitten by the racing bug again we decided to make the Mini more competitive. We started by modifying the cylinder head, adding stronger valve springs that allowed going up to about 8,000 rpm, adding a racing cam, an oil cooler, and a new, much larger exhaust manifold and system. We ran 6¾” width tires (Dunlop SP-4) and added a roll cage, which was a work of art made and installed by the shipyard pipe fitters. When racing, the fuel consumption dropped to about 14 to 16 miles per gallon, so a larger gas tank was required.

We ran six races in Malaysia including a supporting race for the GP, and similarly for the Singapore GP. The drive to KL was about a four hour run and we would leave Singapore with three or four other competitive cars between 5 and 6 Friday evening. Our car included Hilary, two kids, luggage and racing items. It was a ‘hairy’ run with open exhaust through tropical forest. We raced Saturday and Sunday and then returned Sunday evening for work and school on Monday.

I had limited success and finished on the plus side with racing expenses because of some class wins or good positions, and my two sponsors, Castrol and Dunlop, matched any money paid by the race organizers.

Singapore Grand Prix

The Singapore Grand Prix is held on public roads, which make for some exciting racing. The salon car race is a supporting race to the main event. There were about 40 cars entered, which included a number of factory entries such as Toyota, BMW, Alfa, Ford, Mazda and BMC. To reduce the field there were two heats with the fastest thirty cars for the main event, a one hour timed race.

I was placed in the first heat in about 12^th position. Unfortunately when the flag dropped, the car in front stalled and I hit the back of this car and damaged my front fender so that I could not start. I got back to the pits and made temporary repairs. I met with the race director and he let me enter the final, starting last in 30^th place. After an interesting race I finished in 10^th place, but first in my class for cars up to 1300cc.

Malaysia Grand Prix

For the Malaysia Grand Prix, the supporting salon car race was a similar one hour race but only the 30 fastest cars qualified for this race. I made the cut and finished 3^rd in my class after driving through a tropical rain downpour. My thrill was to pass a 911 Porsche and several other faster cars in the rain. The Mini with intermediate tires is very good in the rain compared to those factory cars on slicks.

During our three years in Singapore I was invited to be a team member for the local Mini distributer in a six hour endurance race. Unfortunately because of the lack of support it was cancelled. In the two years of racing in Singapore and Malaysia, I did not have a DNF with the Mini. Hilary drove the car around Singapore during the week days, with waves and thumbs up from the taxi drivers to go faster.

On one occasion my friend and I were approached by Subaru to purchase two team racing cars and the company would prepare and maintain these cars for racing. Since we did not intend to stay in Singapore, we declined.

Return to the USA

I thought about getting involved in racing when we came back to the States, but it was impractical. The requirements for the race car were too involved. And going to a driving school and testing for a SCCA license was too difficult with a new job that included frequent overseas business trips. All of this left too little time to have fun.

These days my main means of transportation is by a power scooter or wheelchair and I accept with thanks being helped around by Hilary and friends.

Derek Scovell 1931-2020

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 19:59:16 GMT

We regret to advise that our long-time Club Member, Derek Scovell, passed away on June 16 at the age of 89. Derek bravely fought difficult health circumstances for several years. He died peacefully at home after a short time with Hospice care.

Derek and his wife Hilary have been with the HMGCC since the 1977 and he was President of the Club in 1991. They cared for a 1967 MGC Automatic and an early MGB, both of which were right- hand drive. The MGB previously returned to the UK to stay in the family. Derek and Hilary are natives of the UK.

Derek will be cremated and there will be a Family-only gathering in Houston.

Big Boys, Little Toys

Sat, 13 Jun 2020 16:28:37 GMT

By Dave Renner

I met my friend Chuck when we were in US Coast Guard enlisted basic training in Alameda, CA in the summer of 1969. We had no idea that we would stay in touch once we finished those intense 10 weeks of our lives.

After graduation, Chuck left the base to train as a marine science technician while I stayed there working in the Public Information Office, waiting for an opening in the Defense Information School to become a photojournalist. Neither of us expected to be stationed anywhere near each other again during the remainder of our tours of duty. But, one thing you learn in the military is, never say never.

About five months later, Chuck got in touch with me to let me know he had finished his training and was being assigned to duty in the Bay Area. He was renting a place in Oakland, just a few miles from the base. He asked if I wanted to be his roommate. Seemed like a good idea to me, so I did.

Soon after I moved in, Chuck decided he needed a fun car to mess around with on weekends. Somewhere he found a decent and inexpensive Austin Healey Bugeye (aka Frogeye) Sprite to play with. For several weekends just bombing around in it was plenty of fun. But one Friday afternoon, Chuck announced his next great idea. He was going to turn that little car into a mini command car. And I was going to help.

Chuck bought an assortment of cans of brown, tan and green paint, a few brushes and a couple of six packs of Olympia beer (Chuck was from Oregon, next door to Washington State, home of Olympia beer) and creativity broke out almost immediately. As the resident artist, I had the important job of designing a camouflage pattern. We sat down on the curb in front of the house and slathered on the paints. After a few beers the Sprite command car began to look really good to us. Watching paint dry, we finished off the afternoon and the remaining cans of Oly.

Not satisfied that the newly painted Bug looked enough like a desert rat mobile, Chuck decided the next day that the poor thing needed a machine gun to complete the effect. So he fashioned a simulated weapon out of an old wooden box and a piece of broom handle properly painted to look sinister. We duct taped the gun to the trunk rack and called it good. All that remained was for us to go on a strafing run through the neighborhood. Two big boys with a little toy went out to play.

What a great idea that was, considering those were the days of the Symbionese Liberation Army kidnapping and robbing banks in the Bay Area, native American protesters invading Alcatraz, angry students occupying the administration building at Berkley, and Charles Manson and his crowd of crazies running amok who-knows-where in the rest of California. Maybe not the smartest thing to do, but an Oly haze made it seem like a good idea at the time. We completed our daring mission without being grounded and called it a job well done.

Once the novelty wore off after a few weeks, Chuck tired of his painted lady and sold it on to some other demented young fool (not me). I have no idea what became of it. After all, it was nothing but a cheap used car at the time. I sometimes wonder if it might still be stashed away somewhere in a dusty garage, patiently waiting to be restored or maybe just taken out for one more strafing run on a sunny Spring day by a couple of lads with a belly full of Olympia. I would certainly rather remember it that way.

Thank You to the Houston MG Car Club

Wed, 10 Jun 2020 18:00:38 GMT

Dear Houston MG Car Club,

My name is Lori Seto; I am Russ Seto's oldest daughter. I wanted to share this announcement (below) and thank you all very much from the Seto family for being one of the initial contributors to help fund this scholarship in my dad's memory. The first recipient, Cristobal Aguilar - a self-described "devoted automotive enthusiast" - received his award this past winter and just graduated. In his three-page thank you letter, he wrote:

"It is people like yourself that make the world a better place by contributing to the education of students in need such as myself. My future plans are to finish my Lone Star program, get promoted at my current job from a quick service technician to an all-system technician, and work at a better dealership or even open my very own shop, a dream I've had all of my life."

I think that my dad and Cristobal would have had a lot to talk about!

Thank you for helping future Russ Seto's hone their skills and earn a living from their love of cars. My dad's spirit and generosity lives on through this scholarship, thanks to the contributions of his many friends. Thank you!

Sincerely,

Lori Seto

June 6 Monthly Meeting Recording

Sun, 07 Jun 2020 20:28:47 GMT

Dear Members and Friends,

Click on the link below to watch a recording of our June 6 meeting.

Safety fast!

Mike.

https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/4c9oDYv69E5LT4nWznvPHbZ7FIrVT6a82iJN_fsJxUp0PFpfWNmdQogB-a7csL-h

C130 Alternator Upgrade

Sat, 06 Jun 2020 15:31:51 GMT

by David Terry

The Problem

Driving my MGB at night using either the auxiliary lights, overdrive, or fan would cause the ignition light to glow, indicating that the battery was augmenting the alternator to power these items. Resolving this issue would require an alternator that generated sufficient power in excess of what the original Lucas 18ACR could provide.

The Remedy

First, I needed to charge the battery. Since the previous owner (PO) had reworked much of the engine bay with nonstandard wiring colors, I had to trace the wiring against a wiring diagram.

I ordered a CS 130 alternator from 123ignitionusa.com and removed the Lucas alternator. On installation, I cut the plug off of the existing alternator (I cut it about two inches below the plug), then connected the brown and yellow wire from the loom to the brown wire on the new alternator plug. The next steps were:

· connect the medium brown wire from loom to battery post on alternator

· connect the red wire from new plug to battery post on alternator

· connect thin brown wire from loom to battery post on alternator.

Finally, I installed the fan belt and tensioned it appropriately and started the car. The PO had connected the wires from the ignition relay to the Lucas alternator rather than the battery post on the starter. Once I was able to address this anomaly, connecting the wiring was easy. The new alternator now generates sufficient electricity to power the headlights, overdrive, wipers, and aux lights at night without causing the ignition light to glow. My headlights have never been brighter.

Conclusion

Upgrading from the Lucas alternator to the CS 130 was an easy project that took about thirty minutes to complete but resolved the power issues I was experiencing. If you are interested, order from Ed Madak at 123ignitionusa, LLC. The unit comes complete with pulley and ready to install. You may have to adjust the spacer provided to align the belts but, again, this is straightforward and easy to accomplish.

A big THANK YOU to David Terry for submitting this article. It will be a benefit to many of our members and followers. If you would like to submit an article to the ROARS, either technical or social, please do, we are always looking for content. Don't worry about your writing capabilities our editors, Dave and Linda Renner, will work with you to make it stellar. You can submit articles by sending them to HoustonMGCarClub@gmail.com

Corona Competition Week 10

Fri, 29 May 2020 16:36:31 GMT

This week’s winner is….

Scott Hardy!

LBC 1: Car Capers in Cleveland

Corona Competition entry, week 10

By Scott Hardy

My wife Trish and I are the current car(e)takers of a 1972 MGB that I christened Leicester B. Carlysle III (LBC III for short). Leicester shows every sign of being a stalwart, even reasonably reliable, little British car (notwithstanding the rather unfortunate incident involving gasoline spouting from a disappeared carburetor screw onto a hot exhaust manifold; having survived that, he now travels with a fire extinguisher onboard wherever we travel.) This story, however, concerns the first of Leicester’s predecessors, the little British cars that preceded LBC III in my life. In the interest of technical accuracy, I will mention that even though the body of my late, lamented Volvo 1800S was stamped in England by Pressed Steel (who also did the MGB), by 1966 final assembly had moved from Staffordshire back to Sweden.

LBC 1 came into my life in 1970 when I was a car crazed high school sophomore in Berea, Ohio. My mother drove a 1965 Rambler American 660, with two-tone aqua paint, automatic transmission, and vacuum wipers. It was the prototypical box on wheels, and she hated it. My mother was a stylish, progressive woman, and the Rambler just was not her cup of tea. I was also embarrassed to be driving it, on those too-rare occasions when I could finagle the keys to the car. Sensing an opportunity, I searched through the Plain Dealer classifieds, and finally found something that caught her interest – a 1967 MGB GT. It was owned by an ex-GI who had returned from Germany with it, and it was a tidy little motor: BRG with wire wheels and an Italian Stebro exhaust. My mother loved it, and so did I – figuring that I might finally be noticed by the girls in my school. But like many youthful loves, there was both joy and anguish in our relationship.

While the MG was not technically “mine,” I did inherit the not-inconsiderable job of keeping it on the road. So I bought my first workshop manual, went to Sears for some Craftsman wrenches, and got to work. I quickly learned intimate secrets about SU carbs, so I sprang for a Uni-Syn. So equipped, and with occasional help from MG Motors in Lakewood and a sympathetic independent mechanic, I kept it on the road. But I could not solve the starting problem. Like other MGs, ours had come standard with two six volt batteries. Unlike other MGs, ours was never converted to one 12 volt, and the dual batteries kept dying with alarming regularity. My mother was less than amused at the car consistently failing to get her home from the office; I was not thrilled at having to go with my father and tow the car home (via a dangerously short cable); and my father was generally pissed at having to replace all these 6 volt batteries, each which cost twice as much as a 12 volt would have.

I resolved to solve the problem, so I found myself in familiar territory under the aluminum hood. Anticipating this moment, Lucas engineers had helpfully installed a switch on the starter solenoid, so I could start the car from the engine bay. Over time, I really appreciated their foresight. On this occasion, I held down the button and the engine reluctantly – very reluctantly – turned over. Slowly. And even slower. As I watched, the engine ground to a halt, while the throttle cable went up in smoke!

Convinced that Demons sent by the Prince of Darkness were occupying my Mom’s car, I gave up and went to call the mechanic. His telephone diagnosis proved to be correct. The car was being grounded primarily through the throttle cable, and a simple grounding strap proved to be the cure. And the batteries started lasting longer than the Dunlop tires, which were generally good for a maximum of 10,000 miles. More often 5,000 miles.

My mechanical skill set expanded the longer we had the car, culminating in pulling the engine and transmission not one, not twice, but thrice when replacing the transmission. The MGB GT taught me how to rent tools, browse auto shops, and prowl through junk yards. I do miss the last of those skills. It was such a sense of expedition and discovery to prowl though a weed-choked and mud-soaked salvage yard in search of foreign automotive gold in the form of half crashed, rust ravaged carcasses.

I would like to say that LBC 1 is these days in the hands of a grateful collector, but I’m afraid that would be a lie. After I went off to college, my mother eventually had the local vocational school replace the steel front fenders with fiberglass, hoping that would keep the rust demons at bay. The fender and paint job she received were written up in a nice story she did for the local paper, and the car looked great for a couple of months. However, the fender rust was only one symptom of a far greater cancer, and when the floor mats eventually provided more structural support than the floorboards, she sold the car. I’m sure it went off to one of those salvage yards within a year or two.

The good news is that her replacement for the MG was a new model, the first-generation Honda Accord that came out in 1976. That was a landmark car, marking the first movement of Honda into mainstream automobiles. I really enjoyed driving it – but it taught me absolutely nothing about automobile mechanics!

To read part 2 of this story, Click Here.

Corona Competition Winner Week 9

Fri, 22 May 2020 19:40:37 GMT

This week’s winner is….

Greg Ulrich!

This ‘n’ that…

Corona Competition entry week 9

by Greg Ulrich

SU Carburettors

Did you ever wonder where the name “SU” comes from in the SU Carburettors that are fitted to most MGs? Two brothers named Skinner invented the carburettors in the early 1920s. Their family was in the shoe manufacturing business and the brothers named their carburettor business “SU” for Skinner’s Union. William Morris (the Morris of Morris Garages) was so impressed with the carburettors that in 1927 he bought the company and, with Carl Skinner still in charge, built a highly successful business. From the time of the takeover in 1927, all Morris cars were fitted with SU Carburettors.

(From the book, LORD NUFFIELD, by Peter Hull)

Rally Tip from the Past

Everyone knows what a terrific job Wayne Moore has done in educating THE ROARS newsletter readers over the years about the proper way to conduct an MG rally. I recently came across the very first rally tip from our own Dean Kring, Houston MG Car Club Member #2, in the very first ROARS newsletter, dated June 1971. And I quote:

If you have a temper but want to win, don’t have your spouse as your navigator. Good navigators are easier to come by than good spouses….maybe.

Seems like good advice in 1971 and it still is today!

SAFETY Fast!

Did you ever wonder where the MG slogan “SAFETY Fast!” came from? According to an article by Norman Ewing in the December 1978 MG Car Club’s magazine, Safety Fast, the slogan originated in November 1929. Ted Colegrove, the MG publicity manager at Abingdon, was driving through Oxford one day and came up behind a bus. On the back of the bus was a large triangle with the words “Safety Fast!” to indicate that the bus had brakes all around— a new innovation in 1929. Mr. Colegrove altered the slogan to read “SAFETY Fast!” and eventually sold the idea to Cecil Kimber. By the way, to be proper, the slogan should always be shown with an exclamation point.

Corona Competition Week 9

Wed, 20 May 2020 22:09:26 GMT

The Unfinished Road Test

Corona Competitionentry, week 9

by Ray Holtzapple

It all started out while surfing eBay for MGC parts in June 2016. I had recently made my first venture into the world of MGCs when I purchased a complete left hand drive MGCGT from a fellow in West Texas and I was starting to make plans for its restoration. To my delight and dismay, however, that plan was about to change as I saw a 1969 MGCGT listed in Atlanta, Georgia that was right hand drive. Many of you know that I am deeply smitten by the RHD fever. My stable of MGs includes a 1974 factory BGT V8, a ‘64 MGB, ‘75 BGT Jubilee and a ‘36 MGPB former Lancashire police car, all of which are RHD.

Looking at the pictures on eBay, this car checked all the right boxes: first, it was RHD; second, it had a Britax sunroof like my V8; and third, it was here in the States. After my challenge of shipping a 1975 Jubilee edition MGBGT from England, this looked like it would be a cake walk. I followed the car auction for six days and corresponded with the dealer about the CGT. Satisfied with what I heard, I placed a bid, won the auction and arranged for shipping. The adventure began.

On its arrival, I found the car was lacking brakes and a clutch. No problem for an enthusiast like me, right? I got to work sourcing parts and said to myself, “Let’s just tidy up this wonderful engine compartment.” That concept had never worked for me before and, being true to the faith of a purist, it did not work this time.

Before I knew it, the car was in many pieces, no two together. The engine was tired and the crank thrust washer was gone, causing metal-to-metal contact. Luckily, the crankshaft could be saved and I had it welded at a very reasonable cost. As I read about rebuilding the MGC engine, I found that common wisdom said to lighten the flywheel by 25%. That is a lot, but just picking up the hefty flywheel made it obvious it was the right thing to do. The machine shop undertook the necessary machine work; a road test would prove the benefits. Hence, the plan for a road test is the subject of this article.

During the introductory road test of MGCs back in 1967, the press was not very kind to the performance and handling of the subject cars. The 1969 MGCGT I purchased is the first and only CGT to be road tested by a magazine after the original poor reviews. When Road Test 334 was published in Autocar magazine, ("Used Car Test: 1969 MGC" Vol. 135, nbr 3940, 30 September 1971, pp. 18-19), the car performed very well when compared to the earlier factory tests. It was this road test history that drew me to the car. Along with subsequent references to that road test in two other publications, a picture of it appears in the book The Mighty MGs. What a neat history to preserve!!

This brings me back to my multiple buckets of bolts, miscellaneous parts and the daunting restoration project facing me. Before his relocation to the Atlanta area, the previous owner, William Williams, had worked on the car in the UK. New rear wings were installed—but not exactly right, as the right hand door had more than a ½-inch gap at the back edge. New front wings were installed, too—but by now they were gone at the bottoms—and the right headlight bucket was rusted through. The English weather has never been kind to anything steel or aluminum, so it was no real surprise that I also found major rust in the frame rails, front floor boards, right hand rear area of the inner fenders and the boot floor. The internet proved to be a wonderful place to find new bits, and a very good West Texas rust-free MGBGT provided donor parts.

When all of the rusted areas were replaced or repaired, the process of going back together began.

The impressive, big six cylinder engine was great fun to assemble. As always, I started by painting the inside of the block as was done to the original castings. I have learned that is a great way to keep the inside from carboning up over the years. One part after another went on until the beast was complete.

With the refurbished engine, transmission and running gear in place, the CGT was approaching completion and seemed nearly ready for a road test. Sadly, the clutch decided to become problematic and that has taken time to sort out.

On examination, I discovered that the clutch master cylinder push rod was too short, a manufacturing flaw. Once I was able to overcome this, I conducted my own quick test up the street.

It was time to close my longtime shop and move everything to my new home workshop. As is so often the case, other projects have made their way to the front of the queue, so the CGT will have to wait its turn to get on the road. To complete the real road test and compare it to the Autocar test, I will have to get it off the lift in the next couple of months. Stay tuned.

Corona Competition Week 8

Fri, 15 May 2020 14:54:04 GMT

This week’s winner is….

Bob Chalker!

The Unplanned Adoption of Tiffany

Corona Competitionentry, week 8

by Bob Chalker (with incredible patience from Kim Chalker)

In 2014 we became the unplanned owners of Tiffany, an Aqua 1972 MGB, our first MG, actually our first classic car of any type. Our love affair started when I spotted an article titled, “Five Classic Cars You Can Buy for Under $5000.” Well, as a car guy, I couldn’t resist reading the article. You see, I spent 23 years of my career working in the auto industry. Now, I have to admit it had been a long time since I considered buying a classic car and I had sort of lost track of pricing… but under $5000, how could I not take a peek? To my surprise, on the list was the MGB. I found it hard to believe and was intrigued enough to go to eBay and check out the claim.

Sure enough, I found several rubber bumper MGBs listed for under $5000. They were of all colors– yellow, red and white. The red one looked nice and I knew my wife, Kim, always liked red sports cars. So I hauled my iPad over to where she was sitting and showed her the car. She looked up and said, “Well, that’s nice, but I really like that one,” pointing to the car that eventually would become our beloved Tiffany. That led to my second surprise of the morning; when I suggested putting in a bid, she didn’t say no. So being someone who doesn’t miss an opportunity, I did some quick research to get an idea of what a reasonable price might be. This is where I learned my first lesson of MGB ownership. Those chrome bumpers are worth about $7000. Once I made up my mind on what I wanted to pay, I set my max bid and watched the auction over the next couple of days. To my surprise I was the high bidder but, to my disappointment, I was not above the auction reserve price. I thought the deal was done, as I was not going higher.

Then a day or so later, I received an email through eBay, asking if I was still interested in the car. Well, of course I was, so I replied. The seller and I exchanged a few emails about the vehicle through which I asked him all kinds of questions about its condition, drivability, history, etc. We also came to agreement on a price with the caveat that the car must be in the condition he described. Now came the next challenge; the vehicle was in Colorado and we were here in Houston. I decided it would be a good idea to let Kim know that we may have just bought a car and that she might be flying to Denver with me to pick it up.

We arrived in Denver on a very, very early flight, rented a car, and headed out to the home of the seller, approximately an hour up the road. When we saw the car, it was love at first sight. We checked her out all over, using my kitchen magnet to search out rust. We then headed out on a test drive. Boy, did she run great. The engine purred (well, actually rumbled as she needed a new muffler) and the transmission shifted like butter. The car was as good as the owner had described.

We loaded her up with our luggage, which wasn’t much, and headed south for our 1000 mile trip back home. Now at this point all of you experienced MG owners are saying, “Are you crazy, you drove a 40 year old MG that you know nothing about, 1000 miles across open country?” “What do you mean you didn’t have a mechanic check it out first?” “Why didn’t you rent a truck or trailer to bring it home?” “You could have shipped it?” Did I mention that I really knew nothing about MGs or classic cars? If I knew then what I know now, I would have done one of those things, but I didn’t. I was blessedly Naive.

We made the trip, taking back roads the whole way, and Tiffany ran flawlessly. We stopped at a hotel for the night and I have to admit I was up every hour or two looking out the window to see if she was still there. It also got a bit hot driving across central Texas on a late spring afternoon. On this trip I learned my next lesson of MG ownership. Everywhere you stop, people want to talk to you about the car. If you are pumping gas or eating at a restaurant, plan on it taking much longer than it should as you will be the most popular person in the parking lot.

Kim and I are not necessarily the adventurous types, but this trip—going from not even thinking about owning a MG to being the happy owners of Tiffany in less than six days—has put us on an adventurous road filled with great cars, good friends, fun road trips and a tremendous amount of learning about cars.

First Virtual Pub Quiz.

Tue, 12 May 2020 23:05:36 GMT

First Zoom Pub Quiz held

Saturday, May 9, 2020

During the Saturday morning Zoom session, a dozen or so members gathered on our screens and two teams sought their best collective answers in their virtual break-out rooms. Twenty MG-related questions, some with 2 or 3 responses required, were to be answered, such as:

Q: What was the old speckled hen?

A: 1) the factory parts car that spent too much time near the paint booth; 2) a premium bitter beer first brewed in 1979 in Abingdon to commemorate the 50^th anniversary of the MG car factory

Q: Which brewery produced this beer?

A: Morlands

The competition was close but the winning team claimed 22 points out of a possible 33 correct answers. With a little more time, both teams would have done much better.

The winning team included: Marius Chanson, Jim Chase, Jim Early and Dwight Dawson.

Spring Break 1975

Thu, 07 May 2020 23:31:13 GMT

This week’s winner is….

Vernon Jones!

Spring Break 1975

Corona Competitionentry, week 7

by Vernon Jones

I first made the decision to attend college out of state at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. The Arkansas back roads were great fun to drive in my 1957 MGA, but you just couldn’t buy a beer in that town as a freshman. And I had my first real girlfriend at home. So, having my priorities as I did at that time in my life, I made the move back in-state to the University of Oklahoma after my freshman year. By March it was appearing that my third major was actually going to work out (mechanical engineering, a vocation in no small part dictated by my first MG— but that’s another story). I maneuvered my brother out of his 1966 MGB after he dropped out of college, convincing Dad that I needed the “newer” car.

Spring Break was here! A group trip was planned for about a dozen of us to caravan to Texas’ South Padre Island and stay in a motel right on the beach. The caravan shaped up with my white with red upholstery/wire wheeled/wood plank mounted 8 track player-equipped MGB; a ’66 VW with interior air flow enhanced by a rotted out bonnet seal; a robin’s egg blue Plymouth Duster that was the only new car in the pack; and others I can’t remember, but all well-used and all unlikely to make the 1,500+ mile round trip without mechanical difficulties.

My car, as the only convertible, was clearly the most desirable way to make this trip. I had no shortage of offers from others to drive it, and I coolly agreed as a means to build favors that might come in handy during the coming week.

Sadly, by San Antonio I had run out of drivers and even my girlfriend refused to ride with me. It seems the ride was just too harsh. How could this be? Just the month before, I had “rebuilt” the seat suspensions because the spring mounted rubber diaphragms underlying the upholstered padded seat bottoms had rotted to collapse. My solution seemed so elegant and expeditious! I simply crisscrossed the bottom seat frame with a weave of nylon straps that were pop-riveted into position. The whole fix had taken less than an hour. Unfortunately, the 1-¾ hour drive from home in Tulsa back to school in Norman had not been quite long enough to reveal the shortcomings of my solution.

The seven hours after San Antonio were brutal, even with the cast iron ass I possessed at the time. My inebriations over the course of Spring Break week were largely an effort to forget about the upcoming drive back to Norman. In the course of the beach partying I also got the worst sunburn of my life, adding yet more misery to the trip back.

I required many, many stops on the way home. I had no trade offer valuable enough to entice alternate drivers. By San Antonio my friends (and girlfriend!) could no longer take my whining and solicitations at the too-frequent stops. I never saw them on the rest of the road north or until school restarted the next week.

I still have that 1966 MGB. To this day I sometimes run across a little collection of sand in the trunk, a corner of the floor pan, or a crevice in the engine compartment, and think back to that hard party trip. If only I could remember all the fun they told me I had that week!

Rain drops keep falling...

Tue, 05 May 2020 00:40:12 GMT

Rain drops keep falling…

Corona Competition entry, week 7

by Dave Renner

Back in the early 1990s, I had the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to work with my MG Car Club friend and cinematographer Gary Watson on creating a documentary film about the history of the MG Car Company, known as Inside the Octagon. I played several roles during that experience, but none more memorable than the time I drove with Linda in our 1974 MGB while Gary filmed us on our way into downtown Houston on I-45 from Houston Avenue to Pierce Street.

Gary intended this segment to describe the ongoing roadworthiness of the MGB in contemporary traffic of the time. While the oldest MGB was most of 30 years old by then, the final version was less than 15 years old. Our MGB was still a barely well broken in used car to us. Gary’s approach involved filming our car from multiple vantage points, which would be edited together to show a carefree drive into the city.

The plan was for Shot One to be created using a camera secured on our boot rack so he could film over our shoulders as we happily cruised down the freeway. Shot Two would be filmed driving the same stretch of road with Gary shooting beside us from the open door of a van. Shot Three would retrace the route one more time, with Gary shooting from an overpass looking down as we drove under. Melded together, the three views would portray a happy couple enjoying a delightful afternoon of open top motoring. We imagined shades of Cary Grant and Marilyn Monroe, cheerily driving an MGTD in the movie Monkey Business. What could possibly go wrong?

Linda and I met Gary and his wife Roz one overcast Saturday morning at the McDonald’s restaurant on Houston Ave, ready to make our movie debuts. He securely lashed his precious and valuable 16mm camera to the rack and explained that he would start the camera just before we left the parking lot; he would then follow us to another lot just off the exit ramp on Pierce St, where he would hop out of his car and turn off the camera. He did not have the luxury of a remote control for the camera— tight budget, you know.

On cue, Gary turned on the camera and we accelerated smoothly toward the entrance ramp for I-45. As we pulled into traffic on the highway, a fine mist began to fall. In the spirit of the scene, Linda and I chatted to each other as if we didn’t have a care in the world. As we drove along, however, the mist became a sprinkle, and the sprinkle a drizzle. Did I mention that there was no exit ramp until we got to the Pierce exit? No way out. We were committed.

We did our best to pretend to be having a wonderful time as the drizzle turned into a steady downpour. Caught on film was the rain running steadily down our noses and our hair becoming elegantly plastered to our heads. I finally gave up and turned on the windshield wipers when I could no longer see the road. All pretense was abandoned. By the time we got off of I-45 there was not a bit of film that could be used. When we came to a halt, Gary rushed up to turn off the camera and cover it from the rain. Linda and I leaped out of the MG, put the top up and stood dripping in the parking lot, too late to worry about being wet.

Not much was said as we parted company after the camera was removed from the car. We agreed that a reshoot was no doubt in order, once a weekend with a better forecast should arrive. That did happen and the shoot went without incident, but the best shots never made it into Inside the Octagon. Too bad really.

Getting ready for a dry run

May Monthly Meeting Recording

Sat, 02 May 2020 16:17:04 GMT

If you missed the May monthly meeting here is a link to the video recording :

https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/play/ucAtJe36-zw3EoWV4gSDBPIqW9TpLK-s0XVP_PQIyUi8AXILYFH1M7USZeNfsOtS7lKP9-nNu6_xD7pV

Safety fast!

Mike.

Corona Competition Winner Week 6

Fri, 01 May 2020 13:29:57 GMT

The winner of week 6 is….

David Thomas!

MG Dreams

Corona Competitionentry, week 6

By David Thomas

My wife Petunia and I were born and educated in the former British colony of Ceylon (renamed Sri Lanka in 1972), where British cars made up about 50% of the vehicles on the roads in the 1950s through the early 1960s. My grandfather purchased a 1947 Morris 8 saloon car in 1949, and it stayed with him through 1978, when I sold it for him with 99,000 miles on the odometer. I recall watching horse races in 1962 from the public road outside the fence at the Colombo Racecourse, sitting on the roof of that car. Those were the days that you could sit on a tire by the mechanic and watch brake jobs, decarbonizing, body work, painting, etc. During the next few years, I would ride my bicycle to the repair garage that looked after the 1954 family Opel Caravan, and would watch as Austin, Ford Anglia/Prefect/Popular, Hillman, Humber, Morris Minor, Rover, and Vauxhall cars were worked on, along with Audi, DKW, Mercedes, Opel, Peugeot, Renault, Skoda, Volkswagen and others. Petunia’s parents owned a 1952 Wolseley 4/50 until they migrated to the USA in 1993.

It was about 1968 and I had a school friend whose father was Chairman of a dealership for Riley, MG, Holden, and Buick. One day the father sent over a new MGB GT that his son was to ride home in. I was offered a ride, too, and got to squeeze into the back seat along with another teenage classmate. I was thrilled, and thought that the steering wheel and dashboard were just beautiful. Around the same time, somebody came to our home in an immaculate 1953 MG TD that had been restored for his daughter as a wedding present. I thought to myself that I would one day like to own one of those cars. It took me just 40 years for that to come through, as a 55^th birthday gift!

College, first job, marriage, and two kids came along next, with an intercompany transfer to the USA in 1986. Petunia and I arrived at IAH on 26^th March ’86, with two large bags, two kids (4 & 2 years old), and $2000 to begin life in the USA. We went straight to the little house rented and furnished for us in The Woodlands, and the next day a brand new 1986 Ford Escort wagon was delivered to us. Ten years later I did look at a MG TD, but it did not join the family; there were more pressing matters at hand. By 2001, we had two cars in the family. The two kids took the ’94 Mazda Protégé to school each day, while Petunia had the 2000 Chrysler 300M; I had to coordinate rides for myself.

One day in 2001, sometime after 9/11, Petunia saw an ad for a 1971 MGB on her company’s intra-web. That car had been purchased new by a young lady in 1971, who went on honeymoon in it a year later, and turned it over to her son when he turned 16. He used it for 10-12 years, and offered it for sale after a minor collision, as is. We bought the car, did some work on it including bodywork and touchup painting, and voila! — I had my own car to go to and from work, 15 miles round trip. Since the car was parked indoors at both home and work, the top hardly went up.

Well, time marched on, and both kids were off to college and subsequently med schools. Our son took the MG down to Rice University one day for a game, and scared Petunia no end. He casually mentioned that the car was just about the right height to change lanes on I-45 by passing under the trailer of an 18-wheeler!

In 2008, I saw a posting for a 1953 MG TD, did my due diligence on it, and was the winning bidder. The car was located in Daphne, Alabama, near Mobile, and I went and saw it right before Hurricane Ike. It was my first drive in a MG TD! I returned for the car three to four weeks later with a trailer in tow. One of the first things I did was to install a negative ground cigarette lighter, for Petunia to plug in her negative ground electric blanket! The fact that the dashboard in the TD is very similar to what was in my grandfather’s Morris 8 brings me great delight.

A few years later, we felt that it was time to improve the MGB, so I took it over to 5R Restorations for new floorboards, wiring, and rear suspension improvements. When it got back, I installed new upholstery, steering wheel, changed out the Rostyle wheels for wire wheels, and made other improvements. We now enjoy both MGs, and Petunia and I look forward to participating in more of the HMGCC activities from about June 2021—when we won’t be spending so much time away from home watching over grandkids in St Louis. We expect that the two MGs will ultimately be in the hands of those two grandsons, currently three years & one year old!

Houston MG Car Club and the Corona Virus

Thu, 30 Apr 2020 13:23:35 GMT

Houston MG Car Club and the Corona Virus

During the vexing times forced upon us by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Houston MG Car Club has continued as the “Marque of Friendship” by seeking ways to bring club life closer-to-normal for members and friends.

With time on our hands, we continue to challenge each other to share our MG-related stories for the digital newsletter, THE ROARS, with a timely reward to entice us. Virtual events via Zoom have offered online tech sessions, monthly member meetings, and even a proper “pub quiz.” While perhaps not providing the usual face-to-face camaraderie, these have been welcome substitutes for our normally scheduled events.

We eagerly invite you to participate in these events. Just go to http://Zoom.us and set up a free account. Then send an email to Houstonmgcarclub@gmail.com requesting you be added to our email list. You will automatically receive Zoom sign-in information for any upcoming events. You may also find a listing of times and topics for upcoming events on the Events section of the website (houstonmgcc.com).

The economic impact of COVID-19 in our area has been more severe than in many of the world’s other large cities due to our dependence on the oil and gas industry. In our “shut-down” state, world oil prices have plummeted to the lowest level in decades. To reach beyond ourselves, the HMGCC has responded to assist those hit hardest in our community by providing a charitable contribution to the Houston Food Bank. They do sterling work to provide food and vital services to many local residents devastated by job loss and severe reduction in income. We are proud to support the Houston Food Bank.

I wish to thank the Board of Directors and Officers of the Club for all of their hard work during these trying times. We all wish the best for each of you and your families as we move forward to brighter days.

Safety Fast!

Mike Woodward, President

Houston MG Car Club

Safety Fast Through The American West

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 17:42:45 GMT

Corona Competition entry, week 6

by Scott Hardy

Club's Zoom Meetings Are Well Received.

Sat, 25 Apr 2020 18:15:19 GMT

Club gatherings via http://zoom.us continue to be successful and well-attended. Our last event was an open tech session that included discussion on carburetors, brake systems, how to increase horsepower on an MGB and more.

A link to the session is here : https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/play/vJMpc-37qmk3HYHDuASDBP5-W9S4LP-s1SEbqaYLzBnhVSQHYQX1ZrQSMLHVAI1WHlmdTj6Ubfu6qOS9

The next event is our MG Club Virtual Monthly Meeting for May.

Time: May 2, 2020 10:00 AM Central Time (US and Canada)

To participate just obtain a free account at http://zoom.us and then log on to Zoom using the meeting ID and password that will be emailed to you if you are on the club’s email list.

– If you want to be added to the club's email list, email us at mailto:houstonmgcarclub@gmail.com

Zoom is easy but if you would like to learn more about how to Zoom in, you can contact Mike Woodward or Dwight Dawson.

Safety fast!

Mike.

Corona Competition Week 5 Winner

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 19:52:06 GMT

The winner of week 5 is….

Mike Woodward!

Why Do I Have Such Poor Acceleration?

Corona Competitionentry, week 5

By Mike Woodward

Several years ago I sold my MGTD trailer queen and replaced it with my current 1980 MGBLE, which was and is a driver’s car as opposed to a concours car. Upon opening the bonnet (‘hood’ for you Colonials), I noticed that the distributor body was damaged and that one of the clips that is supposed to hold the distributor cap in place was missing. An enterprising previous owner had solved this problem with a bungee cord! Not wanting to have my driver’s car stranded on the side of the road with a failed bungee cord, I elected to replace the distributor with a complete brand new distributor from Pertronix.

I installed the new distributor and then set the timing at idle, per the book, with my conventional timing light; turned the key, and it started right up and idled perfectly. I then proceeded to drive the car all over Texas and it ran smoothly with no obvious problems.

Three years later, with the help of club member Dwight Dawson, I went to Weatherford, Texas to trailer home (dare I say) a 1979 Triumph Spitfire that was in need of some serious TLC. Several months after that, the Triumph was ready for the road and so I took it for a spin. I noticed immediately that this car accelerated far quicker than the MGBLE, despite only having a 1500cc engine instead of the 1800 cc in the MG. It appeared something may not be quite right with the MG.

A couple of weeks later I attended a tech session put on by club member Ron Redding. On the way to Ron’s shop I was following six other MGBs, all of whom left me in the dust. Something was definitely wrong with my MGB!!!

I started to check what could be the cause of the problem and noticed that when the engine speed increased, the ignition timing did not alter. I realized that for 3-1/2 years I had been driving a car with a non-functioning centrifugal advance mechanism in the distributor. By this time the warranty on the Pertronix was well out of date. I elected to buy a used 25D distributor on eBay and install an Accuspark electronic module in it, thereby having the reliability of modern electronics but for a total parts cost of $65 instead of the $200 I had paid for the Pertronix.

Next came the question as to whether the centrifugal advance on the replacement unit was working, and also what amount of advance I was getting at full engine speed. Enter the setback timing light, which is now in the arsenal of the HMGCC loaner tool program and is pictured here.

I am happy to report that the MG now out-accelerates my Spitfire, albeit only by 0.5 seconds in the run up from 0-60 mph!

Corona Competition Week 5 Entry.

Wed, 22 Apr 2020 19:31:34 GMT

This entry is our first international contribution from a longtime friend of the Renners and the HMGCC. Composed especially for this time…

MGBGT PPE

Corona Competitionentry, week 5

By Angus Jamieson, Inverness, Scotland

If you have to buy a British Car

The Rolls Royce is the nicest

But the old MG is the best by far

For such a time of crisis.

We could buy a flashy vehicle

So that others would admire us

But the MG is a miracle

That deters Corona Virus.

A mask might be protective

Or some other PPE

But there’s nothing as effective

As an MGBGT.

It’s the perfect safe environment

A compact sterile bubble

That keeps those in retirement

From every kind of trouble.

I asked the guy at AVIS

Why he rented MGBs

And the reason that he gave us

Was very plain to see,

“The reason people hire us

Is there’s very little room

And the poor Corona Virus

Can’t survive the petrol fumes.”

When it comes to social distancing

No matter where you are

With the guidelines there’s consistency

By staying in your car.

You can tell police inquisitors

That your wife and you complied

For there’s no room left for visitors

By the time you’re both inside.

If your state has driving limits

And you can’t exceed your quota

In an MGB in minutes

You could drive to North Dakota.

And if the cops seek vengeance

(You’re the type they keep their eyes on)

By the time they start their engines

You’ll be over the horizon.

So you took a good decision

When you bought a small MG

Though you’re subject to derision

From the ones that cannot see

That as they sit there in their Cadillac

All elegant and posh

That crowd of passengers in the back

Are among the great unwashed.

Corona Competition Week 4 Winner

Thu, 16 Apr 2020 22:53:37 GMT

Week 4’s winner is….

Ed Rosenquist

DAMN IT

Corona Competitionentry, week 4

By Ed Rosenquist

This story begins in 1969 when I was transferred from St. Louis to New York City. Kaye and I found home in Connecticut and I planned to commute to the City on the old New Haven Railroad. This required Kaye, along with our one year old son, to drive me to the train station in our only car every morning and then pick me up in the evening. This was especially trying since, in the evening, the train could be one to two hours late with no notification. The train station closed in the afternoon and cell phones didn’t exist then. It quickly become apparent that we had to get a second car. As the trip was only three miles and I had always wanted an MG TF, that was going to be my station car.

I found a TF in New Jersey for $1100. The car had been driven hard and left outside under a tarp. It was in bad shape and the lights were not in good working order. After spending most of a weekend getting the lights working, Kaye took the car to the state inspection station to get it registered. I asked her to stop about a block before the station and check that the lights were still working. If a light was stubborn, she was to just tap on the fender and it would come on. Of course she didn’t do that, but instead just pulled into the station and, when one of the lights was out, asked the inspector to tap the fender. Much to my surprise he did tap on the fender, the lights all came on and the inspector passed the car with the advice, “Have your husband work on this car.” This was my wife’s first frustration with the TF and not the last.

A couple of weeks later after tracking down most of the TF’s problems, we went on a Sunday afternoon drive. The car ran out of gas on the Merritt Parkway. Someone gave me a ride to a gas station and, when I returned with a can of gas, I found Kaye and our son sitting on a hill next to the very busy Parkway, looking perturbed. Over the next two years living in Connecticut there were many similar incidents, but they happened at the train station and fortunately didn’t involve Kaye. A typical comment from commuters was, “I owned one of those damn cars. Let me let help you get on the road.”

The story doesn’t end in Connecticut. In 1970 I was transferred to Houston, where I later joined the Houston MG Car Club, and then in 1973 returned to St. Louis. In Houston I was in a car pool and the TF was driven only on weekends. Back in St. Louis, however, I needed to drive our only reliable car to work since it was 45 miles from home. And here is where Kaye and the TF created more fond memories. We now had two children and Kaye was eight months pregnant. One day she needed go to the grocery store so she piled the two kids into the TF. After shopping, the car wouldn’t start. She called me at work and, knowing the battery terminals were a little corroded, I suggested she take off a shoe and tap the terminals. You can imagine her response, and some kind soul offered her a ride home. When I got home we retrieved the car from the grocery store parking lot. Tapping on the terminals did get the car started.

Two weeks later Kaye got adventurous again, piled the kids back into the car and went off to the grocery store. Once again, the car would not start after shopping. This time when she described the problem to me over the phone, I realized the starter wouldn’t engage. Even though the TF was parked on a hill, she declined to start the car by rolling it down the hill. That weekend we went out and bought a second reliable car.

From this you can understand how the poor little TF got its nickname DAMN IT. The story doesn’t end here. A few weeks later Kaye parked the TF out in the driveway and put a FOR SALE sign on the windshield. Despite living on a quiet street, within a couple of hours someone stopped to inquire about the car. Kaye was totally baffled that anyone would be interested in DAMN IT.

Today we still own that same car, and it has gone through two total restorations.

2020 Spring Thing Cancelled

Sun, 12 Apr 2020 20:13:23 GMT

The 2020 Houston MG Car Club Spring Thing, originally scheduled for April 18th, has been cancelled and will not be rescheduled. All registered attendees have been contacted by email to make arrangements for receiving a refund or to donate the registration fee to the club to support future events and activities.

Coloring Competition.

Sun, 12 Apr 2020 20:00:37 GMT

Just think of the hours of fun, you too can have, with your own Renner cartoon. All it takes is a winning article in the Covid-19 Roars competition.

Artwork courtesy of Dave Renner and Dwight Dawson.

Safety fast!

Mike.

No Cure For The LBC Bug

Fri, 10 Apr 2020 11:37:06 GMT

This week’s winner is….

Dwight Dawson!

No Cure for the LBC Bug

Corona Competition entry, week 3

By Dwight Dawson

Like most everyone else in Covid America today, I have lots of time to recall important moments from my past.

When I was 20, my future father-in-law, the car dealer, gave me an opportunity to “test drive” one of his trade-ins, with his daughter as a ride-along. It was the low-slung Austin Healey blue and white that we took out. The most memorable moment was at a road-side eatery not far from home, where I managed get the sleek roadster high-centered in the parking lot. Fortunately, all I had to do was step out of the car to un-weight it and roll it a few feet. A nice ride, but what did I know..? I never owned a car until I was 21. I certainly could not afford this one.

My next exposure to little British sports cars was at the end of Christmas break in 1968 as we traveled the 400 miles east back to Washington State University. On the top of Snoqualmie Pass in Washington State, it was snowing but the road was just messy flying road-slush. Passing on our left in the fast lane was a yellow sportster with the TOP DOWN. The clowns in the two-seater were having a GREAT time by appearances. The car was an MGB. On that same mountain pass just a few weeks earlier I also had been attracted to a new Lotus in the ski area car park.

Back on campus, a fraternity brother had a late model Jaguar XKE. When he showed me its speed on the straight road between Moscow, Idaho and Washington, I was once again smitten. At a senior year event on the Snake River in May, another fraternity brother introduced me to the 8 cylinders of his Sunbeam Tiger. Now I was a goner.

I graduated in 1969 and started my first career position in Casper, Wyoming. In August I married my co-pilot Merry Candace. While we had been pleased with our noisy yellow 1969 Toyota Corona with special wheels, 4 speed on the floor and a wood trim steering wheel, another temptation emerged. The father-in-law recognized that his daughter and I had jobs and both needed transportation. After a visit to our home town, we drove a very fun, bright red 1967 Triumph Spitfire from the dealership on Fidalgo Island in Washington to windy Casper, Wyoming. “Dad” insisted on a roll-bar, and who could argue? With the wires on the Spitfire, I learned quickly about the importance of keeping the wheel nuts tight, and what happens to hub splines if you get lazy. A wheel did not leave the car, but it could have.

A year later, I accepted a new job in Columbus, Ohio. Both the Toyota and the Triumph made the trip comfortably in the moving van. While we were still apartment-dwellers, the Spitfire started making worrisome noises in its back end. Young and stupid, we sold a perfectly good sports car because of a simple worn u-joint. After several months of regret, a new possibility emerged. Candy worked with a salesman at Borg-Warner who had purchased a beautiful 1973 Blaze MGB. She told him that if he ever wanted to sell it, we wanted it. A year later in 1974, the original MGB owner got a company car and we took over his monthly payments for the Blaze. Wheee. Life has never been the same.

After household moves to Montana and Oklahoma, we again loaded the MGB in our last moving van for its trip to Houston, Texas in 1985. We finally became members of the Houston MG Club in 1992. In our first driving event, a gimmick rally run by current members Wayne and Dixie Moore, we won Third Place and it was another “hook” for MG-ness. At one point there were three Dawson MGBs on our driveway, including one that narrowly survived a high school parking lot.

So, let there be no doubt. Once you have been bitten by the Little British Car bug, you can never go back. I’d like to hear your stories.

BIG BEND IN 2021?

Wed, 08 Apr 2020 20:57:01 GMT

There has been talk about an encore road tour to Big Bend National Park.

Here is a look at a couple of things that happened during that event in 1994.

https://youtu.be/InbgsoOS7rY

Rallye Navigating Made Easy

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 23:13:51 GMT

Rallye Navigating Made Easy

Corona Competition entry, week 3

by Wayne Hardy

Way back in 2008, we took our little 1958 MG ZB Magnette sedan out to Waco, TX for the TMGR fall GOF. I hadn’t been to Waco in 30 years or more, so I was really looking forward to the event. A special treat for this outing was that Ms. Marilyn Lane, my car’s second owner would be joining us for the event. Ms. Lane’s father had been the original owner of this car. He purchased it new while stationed in England in the Navy, with every intention of bringing it back to the states after his tour there, hence the left-hand drive layout. After 10 years and 100,000 miles of ownership, her father had given her the car, as she always loved it, and it continued in her ownership for another 12 years. So the first 22 years of ownership of this little car were well accounted for. Marilyn even provided me with a couple of pictures from the day the car was purchased new, and her father picked up her and her sisters at school in England. So this was to be a somewhat special outing for our little car.

Among the planned GOF events was a self-timed and checked rallye on Friday afternoon—run it when you wish, you keep track of your times and identify landmarks as required to prove you ran the course, and time closest to the set time wins. Now, my wife can be a good road navigator when she wants to, having won trophies at previous GOFs navigating for Wayne Kube and Talley Bell in different outings. She was proud of this fact, too. This ”trophy winning” navigator decided that we needed to do the Friday driving event in order to show our out-of-state visitor some central Texas scenery, and to show off her navigating skills and let Marilyn enjoy her little car again.

Off we went, with me going exactly where the navigator said to go (the only way it works). Even though I had my doubts about some of the route, I kept being assured that we were under the guidance of a “Prize Winning Navigator,” so we pressed on with our nice little drive along the river on the edge of town. “Turn left, turn left,” said the navigator suddenly, even though I was looking at a sign that said this little side road goes to the Waco Zoo. “Go, don’t worry, I’m a prize winning navigator,” said our navigator, while our passenger and out-of-town guest just observed the whole affair. And suddenly, there we were in a nice grassy field, next to the parking lot for the zoo. The navigator flipped the page on her instructions sheet, and BINGO, we were on the display field for the Saturday morning car show, which was supposed to follow a little drive from the hotel to the show area. We’d just followed the Saturday directions to the display field, rather than the rallye route for Friday. We were on the wrong day at the wrong place. So we returned to the hotel, went to the beverage area and got a nice adult beverage—at least our guest and I did, while wife/prize winning navigator went and hid in the room for a while.

No harm done really, and we certainly were able to lead the way in the car convoy to the car display grounds the next morning. On top of this we won “Show Favorite” at the Saturday event, thanks in part I’m sure to Marilyn’s staying with the car all morning, telling everyone who ventured by all about my little car’s very earliest life adventures, complete with a couple of old photos from 1958 and later.

So much for prize winning navigators.

Too Funny

Sat, 04 Apr 2020 15:44:26 GMT

Week 2 Corona Competition Winner

Fri, 03 Apr 2020 13:33:01 GMT

This week’s winner is….

Roger Sykes!

A Mexican Honeymoon

Corona Competition entry, week 2

by Roger Sykes

Ironic that this competition should mime a Mexican beer, since this is a story about Mexico and another of its beers. In mid-May 1968, Kaye and I had been married less than a month. She was finishing her last semester at Texas Tech and I was waiting to be drafted. We had not had a proper honeymoon yet. Some friends were driving to Acapulco for vacation, so we decided to tag along--- in an un-air conditioned '67 MGB GT. We WERE young and crazy.

So off we went, Lubbock to Laredo in day one (try that today!), long before the advent of interstates. We spent the night at our friend's house in Laredo and crossed the border the next day. I carried a spare fan belt, a set of plugs and a couple of quarts of Castrol. There was not a single MG dealer in all of Mexico, so I was truly a trusting soul (or certifiable). Less than a hundred miles later the right front tire—a Gold Stripe Cinturato with less than 1000 miles on it—blew a quarter-sized hole though the sidewall. At $50 a pop, and having a perfectly good Dunlop Gold Seal spare, I had bought only four Cinturatos. You can imagine what the handling was like with 3 radials and 1 bias ply on the ground. We drove all the way through Monterrey without seeing a single tire store. Facing several hundred miles of nothing, we stopped in Saltillo at "Pedro's" tire store to replace the spare. It was while waiting to find anything that might fit that we discovered Tecate beer, in cans, with lime and salt on top.

At that time, Tecate was the only beer in Mexico in cans and it would not be exported to the US for many years to come. I don't recall (surprise) how many beers it took, but "Pedro" finally turned up with a 600-14 tire. While it fit the rim just fine, it did not fit the spare compartment designed for a 5.60-14. Swapping luggage with spare, off we went into the night to San Luis Potosi. Thanks to my Cibie driving lights, I did NOT run over a dead donkey occupying all of my lane.

The next day found us in downtown Mexico City with some of the crew down with The Revenge. After a couple of days in the worst heat wave the city had seen in years, we pushed on for Acapulco. You can imagine how happy the B was with heat, traffic and altitude, but we managed to get out of town before things got out of hand. About half way to Acapulco, Kaye had had all she could stand of the heat and transferred to the air conditioned Olds 442 that our friends were in. Well, alone in a sports car in the mountains, what's a fellow to do? I fell in behind a hard driven Opel Commodore (a model never imported to the States) and chased him for an hour or so. Remember the tires? Blind corners in open range country got very interesting. After a while, it was time to stop and let the 442 catch up. 45 minutes and several Tecates later, they finally showed up. Kaye was cool, but decidedly car-sick. Seems the 442, for all its vaunted performance, was not a car for corners.

When we got to Acapulco, we checked into an inexpensive downtown motel and went for a burger at Denny's. It would be many years before Kaye or I would ever darken a Denny's door again. One of our cheerful gang had to point out the dearth of stray dogs in the area. After a few days doing the tourist thing, our friends decided that they had had all the fun they could stand and left for home.

Kaye and I were not done honeymooning and had just enough funds to do a week at the famed Las Brisas resort across the bay. It was truly a charming setting (probably is to this day) with individual casitas on a hillside dropping right into the bay. As there was not even the possibility of a beach, they built a salt water pool opening out into the bay, called La Concha. More Tecate beer and the chance meeting of a lifetime followed. While sharing a visit from the local parrot, we met another honeymooning couple from Houston. We spent most of the next few days with them, including my short but intense bout with The Revenge. Turns out she was a doctor's daughter and had come properly equipped. When we parted company, his last words to me were, "When you get out of the Army, call me. I'll have a job for you."

Our trip home was uneventful other than over-heating in Mexico City. The first English news we got in Laredo was that Bobby Kennedy had been assassinated. Even though we were both Republicans at the time, we drank most of our duty-free Chivas that night.

It’s a long story covering a short period of time, but I did not get drafted, so I called my new friend. Not only did he hire me then, but again six years later when both of us had moved on to new careers. We remain friends to this day, 52 years later.

I still like Tecate.

Corona Competition Addendum

Tue, 31 Mar 2020 21:55:48 GMT

The intention of the Corona Competition is to stay connected during this time of no face-to-face meetings. As a further refinement to its “rules,” we encourage everyone who is interested to submit their stories about life with MGs and we welcome repeat submissions from all members. Depending on the number of entries at any given time, we may spread the posting of them out over more than one week so that we don’t find ourselves having to skip a week. Since there is a highly coveted cup awarded to the winner, we feel it is fair that only one cup will be presented per family. For any member who submits additional winning entries, the honor of recognition will be the reward, along with a cartoon illustrating the tale. We trust this will encourage many of you to participate. Let’s stay connected!

The editors

Driver Awards Standings

Tue, 31 Mar 2020 21:01:14 GMT

Corona Competition Week 1 Winner

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 18:55:33 GMT

At the end of week 1 of the Corona competition we had three entries: "Just A Little Leak" from Chip Uricchio, "Hub-Centric vs Lug Centric" by Mike Woodward and "My First MG Drive" by Wayne Hardy. And the winner is :

"My First MG Drive" by Wayne Hardy. - Congratulations Wayne !!

Thanks to Dave and Linda for editing, judging and providing the cartoon.

Safety fast!

Mike.

My First MG Drive

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 18:49:38 GMT

My First MG Drive

Corona Competition entry, week 1

by Wayne Hardy

My very first drive in an MG occurred when I was nearly 15 years old, living in Orange, Texas in 1953. I knew all about MGs from first reading Kings of The Road by Ken Purdy, and from reading a new magazine called Road and Track. I saved and hoarded and reread these things over and over. At one time a few years ago, I had every R&T published from 1955 through 2015. Anyway, I first spotted an MGTD on a used car lot in Orange and had been giving it the eye for several days. When I finally decided to go give it a closer look, I found the lot closed; but someone was there and opened the place for me. Now, Orange had a big Navy presence during the war and the base stayed open for a number of years afterward, so for the past few years we’d seen sporty European cars— Jaguars, Simcas, a big Lancia, a few VWs and several MGTCs and TDs—brought home by Navy GIs. This was one of those cars, traded in on something else, American made.

On that fateful day, I rode my bike downtown and parked it in an alley where it wouldn’t be seen from the car lot (I don’t know why, but I thought this would make me seem older, not a kid on a bike), and walked around the corner to the car lot. I sniffed around the car a bit and here came the salesman from the office. I asked if I could roll down the tonneau cover (the top was down) and look at the insides. No sooner did we do this than another customer came into the lot who had his attention for a while, working on completing a sale started earlier. When the salesman returned to me, I was sitting in the car studying the owner’s manual that was still in the glove box. Believe it or not, he asked me if I would like to take it for a drive. Oh yeah, I would.

Now, I could drive and operate a clutch and gear box from driving the old ‘35 Dodge on my grandparents’ farm in the summers, and taking loads of grain into town towing a trailer. This was done all the time in the farming area of Indiana, and it was not unheard of for 10-year old kids to drive farm buggies around town to sell grain or hay to the CO-OP. Still, the MG was a different deal; but I had been studying the controls layout in the owner’s handbook and I was ready to go!

I pulled the choke out a bit, pulled the starter and the thing fired up! Salesman said he was alone at the lot, but if I’d be really careful, he’d stay there and let me take it out by myself. Now remember, I’m 14 years old, no driver’s license and no insurance either. I took it by to show to a couple of school friends, and then by my own house to show my dad what a find I’d made and to discuss my car-owning possibilities for the near future. Not a smart move… He was all concerned that I had no driver’s license and no insurance, and pretty mad at the car lot salesman for turning me loose in a car without asking about either of those things.

Of course we had to take it back immediately, but Dad couldn’t find the starter and I wouldn’t tell him where it was, either, so I got to drive it back to the dealer lot with him riding and my mother following in the car to bring him home. My bike was still safe in the alley, of course, being 1953 not today.

Well, there were lots of discussions with my dad about what a foolish thing that was to do. Still, he recognized the fact that in the summers I drove around the farm and delivered loads of grain worth several hundred dollars into town five miles away, without incident. My Grandfather trusted me, and he should trust me too.

No, we didn’t buy this car, but I did get a driver’s license before I was 16, and did buy a different MGTD in late 1956… followed by a TC, followed by a TF-1500, followed by an MGA, a Midget, MGBs, and 2 MG ZB Magnette sedans, mixed in with a TR-3, an AH-3000, a Jag XK-120, an MK1 Jag sedan, and 3 XJ Jag sedans (2 XJ-6s and an XJ-8 model).

I still drive an MGB along with a nice older Corvette. But my very first drive in an MG, 67 years ago, was that black one with “apple green” leather insides.

Virtual Events Planned For HMGCC

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 21:07:03 GMT

Hub-Centric vs Lug-Centric Wheels

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 02:20:16 GMT

By Mike Woodward

HUB-CENTRIC WHEELS

Hub-centric wheels are designed for the hub center bore of the wheel to be a perfect match to the vehicle. This allows the wheel to be centered on the vehicle hub, which is the most accurate way to center the wheel. Most original equipment wheels are designed to be hub-centric because the manufacturer designs wheels specifically for each vehicle.

LUG-CENTRIC WHEELS

As opposed to hub-centric wheels, lug-centric wheels are centered on the vehicle using the lug holes. Most aftermarket wheels are lug-centric because this allows the manufacturer to make the wheels with larger hub bore diameters so that the wheel can fit a wider array of vehicles. Manufacturers make the center bore larger because a center bore that is smaller than the vehicle hub will not be able to secure safely to the vehicle.

HOW DOES THIS APPLY TO MG?

Most MGs use hub-centric wheels but the MGB LEs use lug-centric wheels that were also used on the Triumph Stag. This means that when you take your LE wheels to be balanced on a standard dynamic wheel balancer that is designed for hub-centric wheels and locates on the hub, it may not work! The solution is to use an adaptor that fits on the machine that locates the wheel in the lugs while it is being balanced. A typical adaptor is shown below and can be borrowed from Mike Woodward by any HMGCC club member.

Safety fast!

The second entry in this week’s Corona Competition, check back throughout the week for more entries.

Just A Little Leak

Sun, 22 Mar 2020 01:11:20 GMT

By Francis (Chip) Uricchio M.D.

Forty years ago I owned my first MGB. I was living in Philadelphia and going to school in Boston. Upon driving back to school up I-95 in MGB #1, I stopped at the Vince Lombardi rest area just south of NYC. When I turned off the ignition, the car saw fit to dump an entire oil pan of motor oil on the ground. I was aware that automobiles occasionally leaked oil, but this was unusual. I figured out that as long as the engine was running, the oil stayed put. So I turned around, drove back to Philly, and made other arrangements to get to Boston. I left the car with a mechanic friend who made the necessary repairs. As it turned out, the gasket on the mount that holds the oil filter away from the block failed and caused my difficulty.

This seems like a problem that only an MG could have. I laugh about it now, but I was not amused at the time!

The first entry in the Corona Competition, check back throughout the week for more entries.

The Corona Competition

Sun, 22 Mar 2020 01:01:01 GMT

The first week of The Corona Competition is complete and we, your faithful editors, had mail! All of the submissions received each week will be published in The Roars and the winner of the breath-taking prize for that week will be announced after the final entry is posted. So, read on intrepid members.

And as Dean Martin used to say, “…keep those cards and letters coming in.”

Linda and Dave Renner

Breath-taking Corona Competition Prize

2020 Spring GoF Cancelled

Sat, 21 Mar 2020 20:06:03 GMT

The Texas MG Register announced earlier today that their 2020 Spring Gathering of the Faithful scheduled for May 7-10th has been cancelled. The following is a letter from TMGR President Greg Poffenbarger.

In response to COVID-19 and restrictions on gatherings, the TMGR leadership has cancelled the 2020 Spring GoF in Killeen, originally scheduled for May 7-10, 2020. Eric Olson cancelled the hotel reservations for everyone who registered under the TMGR special price rate at Shiloh Inn Suites. If you registered individually without advising the hotel you were with the TMGR group, you will need to call the hotel and cancel your stay. The TMGR will be making full refunds to those who have already registered and made payments.

TMGR is also cancelling all other club sponsored events until further notice.

Announcement of new Board Members will be made through BACKROADS, the TMGR website and Facebook.

We will keep everyone informed about future activities using these three forums.

Please stay healthy and safe.

“Safety Fast”

Greg Poffenbarger

President, TMGR

Corona Competition.

Wed, 18 Mar 2020 22:28:53 GMT

The Club wants to provide a fun, alternative event while all our normal activities are virus-limited.

To participate, Members are invited to submit an MG-related piece for our online newsletter, The Roars. Eligible are short stories, technical tips, interesting photos or other bits that celebrate our Octagonal World. Each week, a Prize Winner will be selected by our ROARS EDITORS. Send your email entries to David Renner at drenner@sbcglobal.net.

Dave and Linda will review the entries and notify our President of their winning selection. A breath-taking prize will be awarded to each Winner and the submission posted on The Roars page.

Have fun!

Safety fast!

Mike.

First join the club ,then buy the car and then become involved.

Tue, 10 Mar 2020 19:35:39 GMT

Our long time member, Bob Crow, passed on a couple of articles from mgenthuisiast and Hemmings which we cannot publish due to copyright restrictions but we can point out the high points, from these articles in this reader's perspective which were :

1. Before buying a classic car join the local club and get guidance as to how much to pay and where to get your next classic car.

2. Participate in monthly meetings to learn more about the cars, where to get them repaired, how to fix simple problems yourself and where to obtain parts etc.

3. Meet other members and enjoy the social aspects of the club.

4. Recommend guest speakers and topics for the monthly meetings and even consider being a guest speaker yourself and provide an interesting story about your involvement and introduction to this fascinating hobby.

5. Above all get involved to appreciate all the club has to offer.

Safety fast!

Mike.

p.s. I am always open to suggestions for monthly meeting topics, just send me an email through the club website. :)

How To Have The Most Fun In A MG

Sun, 08 Mar 2020 21:16:10 GMT

On Saturday March 7 fourteen members of the Houston MG car club attended the Autocross co-sponsored by the Texas Triumph Register and the Houston MG Car Club. Ten of them then proceeded to don crash helmets and take to the track for an absolute fun experience.

A picture is worth a thousand words so here is a taste what happened :

After the event the results were published and here they are :

Regrettably we had our first contender for the Broken crankshaft award when Pete Sandy's Pertronix ignition failed :(

Fortunately this happened on Pete's last run and needless to say the "Mark Of Friendship" came through and a band of MG volunteers helped Pete get his car home.

-Mark your calendars for the next Autocross so you too can enjoy this fun and safe activity.

Safety fast!

Mike.

Driver Award Standings

Fri, 06 Mar 2020 00:34:17 GMT

Here are the current standings. Thanks as always to Greg for putting this together.

Safety fast!

Mike.

Quarterly Breakfast Meeting

Sat, 29 Feb 2020 21:22:53 GMT

A great time with good friends at the Quarterly Breakfast in Rosenberg. It was great to see Wayne and Dixie once again at a club event. Thanks as always to our events chair Trish Hardy for putting this together.

A 1968 MGB Put To Good Use...

Mon, 17 Feb 2020 13:10:04 GMT

...Or not, you decide. This vehicle was posted for sale on the Bring A Trailer website.

https://bringatrailer.com/listing/1968-mg-mgb-brooklands-renaissance/

A Brooklands Renaissance Roadster based on a 1968 MGB

Driver's Award Standings

Sun, 02 Feb 2020 02:23:23 GMT

Thanks to Greg as always for keeping up with the standings.

Safety fast!

Mike.

New Payment System Goes Live

Sat, 01 Feb 2020 13:02:52 GMT

Effective today the new payment system is live. Payment’s will now be taken through AffiniPay. The first time you make a payment through the website you will need to enter a credit card, at that time you will have the option to store the card for your convenience. Please know that affiniPay is 100% PCI compliant and that neither the Houston MG Car Club nor the host of our website Wild Apricot store or have access to your credit card information. AffiniPay offers all of the same protection as PayPal. If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to send an email to HoustonMGCarClub@gmail.com.

New Payment System

Sun, 26 Jan 2020 14:44:28 GMT

Effective February 1st the club will be moving to a new online payment system for the website. We currently use PayPal but the cost to support this system have continued to increase. Our website host, Wild Apricot, has their own payment system, provided through AffiniPay, which offers many, if not all of the features and conveniences of PayPal and will save the club administration fees. AffiniPay is fully PCI compliant and has a Better Business Bureau A+ rating.

A Tale of the Hardy's Trek from Calgary to Houston

Fri, 17 Jan 2020 01:08:13 GMT

During the January Houston MG Car Club meeting Scott Hardy shared an informative and entertaining presentation of his and Trish’s adventurous trek in their 1972 MGB from Calgary, Canada to their new home in Houston. If you missed it, you missed a good one. Not to worry, though, as you can see his presentation slides here. Plus, this was only part one of a two-part presentation. Scott will continue his tale at the April monthly meeting.

Stories From The Past

Fri, 10 Jan 2020 16:10:48 GMT

Year's ago Dwight Dawson had a blog about life with their MGB. Following is an excerpt from that blog.

Welcome to my blog about our longstanding and unshakable love affair with a car. Well, its not just any car, but a 1973 MGB Tourer. It is pictured here with a hardtop that I hauled around for 25 years before selling it to an MG colleague in Austin, TX. As a resident of Houston, I found that the heat and humidity rendered the hardtop rarely used. Plus, I needed the space. When I bought the top we lived in Billings, Montana. There, it got some use as I drove the car year round.

Do you have a story about life with your MG? If so, we would love to have you share it with us. Simply send it to houstonMGCarClub@gmail.com.

Driver's Award Standings

Sat, 04 Jan 2020 11:09:52 GMT

As always, many thanks to Greg for preparing the below report.

2019 Awards and Christmas Celebration Photos

Wed, 01 Jan 2020 22:44:00 GMT

By Mike Woodward, photos by Scott Hardy

This year’s Christmas party was once again held on December 14^th at Falcon Point Country Club in Katy. Mike Woodward presided over the event and handed out the annual awards.

The 2019 Driver Award went to Gordon and Angie Bard, for the most round-trip miles driven in an MG to club sponsored events. Additionally, plaques were given to previous years’ winners of the Driver Award who did not receive them at the time, including:

2011 John and Nancy Youens

2012 Ray & Mary Dee Holtzapple

2014 Gordon & Angie Bard

2015 Bob & Kim Chalker

2016 Roger & Kaye Sykes

2017 Mike & Stephanie Woodward

2018 Dwight & Candy Dawson

The twelve members who received the 500 Mile Club Award for their extensive driving of 500 miles or more this year were Bob Chalker, Nick Roccaforte, John Blum, Alex Laverock, Scott Hardy, Walter Bernard, Ron Redding, Bob Schroeder, Ken Evesson, Mike Woodward, Dwight Dawson and Gordon Bard. Well done, drivers!

The Alan Rayne Memorial Award, AKA the “Broken Crankshaft Award,” was presented by Dwight Dawson to Gordon Bard. After receiving both this year’s Driver Award and 500 Mile Club Award, Gordon appropriately pointed that “You gotta drive it to break it!”

The Ralph Diebert Award went to Jim Early for the All-British Car Show’s most popular MG marque vehicle, his 1962 MGA MK II.

In recognition of their respective outstanding leadership and service to the club, Ron Redding was awarded the Board of Director’s Award by Mike Gentry; and Dwight Dawson received the President’s Award.

Finally, the first ever Back Seat Driver’s Award was presented to much-deserving Candy Dawson for her extraordinary behind-the-scenes work throughout the year.

In addition to the awards celebration and wonderful buffet lunch, the customary silent auction and food donation took place, along with a unique and fun gift exchange. Most important of all, our members enjoyed both the spirit of Christmas and the lasting MG friendships within the club.

Merry Christmas

Tue, 24 Dec 2019 17:04:07 GMT

The Houston MG Car Club wishes all of our members and friends a very Merry Christmas and a joyous and prosperous New Year. Thank you for making 2019 one of the club's most successful years.

Flashback to the Club’s 25th Anniversary

Tue, 10 Dec 2019 16:24:47 GMT

The following article was published in the 25th Anniversary edition of The ROARS. Joe Lopez, was the 4th member of the Houston MG Car Club and continues to be a member to this day.

2019 Black Friday Drive

Sun, 01 Dec 2019 12:22:30 GMT

By Mike Woodward

On November 29, 2019 Gordon and Angie Bard, Roger Sykes, Ken Evesson, Mike and Stephanie Woodward and their granddaughter Avi met at Willowbrook Mall to start this year’s Black Friday drive. Amongst them were three MGs (LBC) and one Jaguar (BBC!!). Unfortunately, Fred Whitla and his MGB were stricken by the “Prince of Darkness” on the way to the mall, providing us with our first qualifier for next year’s Broken Crankshaft award!

A picturesque one-hour drive through the countryside led us to the Cozy Grape restaurant in Montgomery. Joined there by Ed Rosenquist and Avi’s mom Fionna Phillips, we all enjoyed a wonderful lunch and, of course, great MG friendship. Towards the end of lunch Fred and Lisa appeared, courtesy of a local tow truck, and so at last the group was together, reminiscing about the wonderful “Prince of Darkness.”

The Results Are In....

Fri, 22 Nov 2019 09:33:50 GMT

…. and Houston MG Car Club members excelled at the Fall GOF. The following HMGCC members and their cars took home awards:

First, club members swept the MGA Roadster Class with

Don & Dottie Lantz’s 1961 MGA taking 1^st
Jim Early’s 1962 MGA MK II taking 2^nd
Robert Schroeder’s 1957 MGA taking 3^rd.

In the other classes

Ron Redding’s 1958 Magnette – 1^st Place Variant Class
Mike Woodward’s 1980 MGB LE – 2^nd Place MGB Rubber Bumper Class
Roger Sykes’ 1974 MGB GT – 1^st Place MGB GT Class
Terry Myers’ 1971 MGB – 1^st Place MGB Chrome Bumper Class
Greg Fleischer’s 1971 MGB – 4^th Place MGB Chrome Bumper Class
Dale & Debbie Schiller’s 1972 MGB – 5^th Place MGB Chrome Bumper Class
Glen & Fran Carpenter’s 1954 MG TF – 1^st Place MG TF Class
Arnel Brown’s 1953 MG TD – 2^nd Place MG TD Class
Jim Chase’s 1948 MG TC – 1^st Place MG TA/TB/TC Class.

Sitting proudly in the Octagon of Honor were

Ron Redding’s 1952 MG TD
Greg & Dottie Ulrich’s 1953 MG TD
Alex Chaykoski’s 1954 MG TD.

Congratulations to all award winners!

Monthly Meeting Trivia

Thu, 14 Nov 2019 17:06:25 GMT

By Dwight Dawson

Our monthly membership meetings are held in various parts of the Houston Metroplex. It means that active members sometimes have to drive a considerable distance. The November meeting, at Lyndon’s BBQ off 290, had 26 attendees. Among them were:

Jim Chase, 50 miles

Bob Chalker, 52 miles in his MGA

Ron Redding, 65 miles

Jim Early, 66 miles

Ken Evessen, 75 miles in his MGA

10 Members drove their MG or other LBC

Well done Driver Members!

Asheville Chronicle

Fri, 08 Nov 2019 13:55:27 GMT

By Bob Chalker

During the last week in October, Kim and I had the pleasure of spending several nights at the Grove Park Inn in Asheville, NC. I was there for business and Kim came along to enjoy the changing color of the leaves, great shopping, and the company of several of my colleagues and their spouses. We also enjoyed a couple pints at a few of the over 100 breweries in the area. The Grove Park Inn, built in 1913 in the arts and craft style, is an incredible lodge located on pristine grounds with breathtaking mountain vistas.

The Grove Park Inn, Asheville, N.C.

A highlight of the trip was visiting the automobile museum at historic Grovewood Village, located on the hotel grounds. Grovewood Village is a small collection of buildings that have been preserved to celebrate the history of the area. Along with the automobile museum there is an art gallery, gift shop from local artisans, and the Biltmore Industries Homespun Museum of weaving and woodworking factories established in 1901.

Grovewood Village Car Museum

The antique car museum was established in 1966 by Harry Blomberg, Asheville’s Cadillac-Pontiac dealer for more than 50 years, and houses his personal prized collection of antique and vintage automobiles. As you might suspect, this museum is a tribute to the American automobile that includes a 1957 Cadillac Eldorado Brougham, a 1916 Willys Overland Touring car, a 1927 REO Flying Cloud, and a 1940 Packard Coupe along with many more rare and unique American made cars.

1959 Edsel Corsair

But there was one exception. The only non-American car in the collection is a 1950 MG TD roadster proudly on display in the very front of the museum. Like all the cars in the museum, the TD is unrestored but in excellent condition. In fact, the attendant at the museum told us that all of the cars are kept in running condition and are periodically driven.

MG TD leading the pack

1950 MG TD

1950 MG TD Interior

As I stood there admiring this beautiful car, I imagined myself driving it up the Grove Park Inn’s long driveway on a crisp fall day with the smell of freshly fallen leaves mixing with the aroma from the inn’s kitchen in the air. The Grove Park Inn is a historic gem built from massive granite stones quarried from the local mountainsides. As we explored the hallways we came across a collection of paintings depicting the cars in the museum. I couldn’t resist snapping a photo of the MG TD painting. We couldn’t afford to buy it, so we will settle with a photo on my phone.

If you are ever in the Asheville area, the Grove Park Inn and the Grovewood museums are a worthy destination.

1926 Cadillac Sedan

1922 American laFrance Fire Truck

2019 Great Pumpkin Rallye

Sun, 03 Nov 2019 01:39:13 GMT

By Tom Dooley

It was strictly top down weather for the Great Pumpkin Rallye on October 26th. After sign-in and drivers meeting at Bleyl Middle school parking lot, one Morris, one Allard and seven MGs were sent off at 2-1/2 minute intervals for the 2+ hours of sports car adventure. Their mission took them through the pristine neighborhoods of Norchester, Cypress Forest, Lakewood Crossing and Lakewood Forest.

A Very Focused Driver's Meeting

Drivers & Navigators Heading To Their Trusty MG's

These gallant MG enthusiasts spent the duration going forwards and occasionally backwards, looking for the answers to the great pumpkin questions. Along the way they learned of such fascinating oddities as a one legged horse, a tree growing out of a chimney, a house with crosshairs on it, the location of Peanut Island, what a clerestory is and what kind of windows it has, as well as a street named after a type of Toyota (or perhaps that’s the other way around).

The Big Send Off

Their journey brought this group of navigational and observational experts to Mo’s Irish Pub at Vintage Park for relaxation, camaraderie and a little low impact elbow exercise. All in all, the consensus seemed to be that it was a very good way to spend a Saturday afternoon with your best girl and your best car.

The Houston MG Car Club Has The Best Girls In Town

In the fine tradition of British motoring, there can’t be a challenge without a reward and therefore our best of the best were: 1^st place Bob and Kim Chalker, 2^nd place Scott and Trish Hardy, and 3^rd place Paul and Karen Brownell.

I wish to sincerely thank everyone who attended for making this event as much fun to put on as it was to participate in.

Enjoying A Pint and Celebrating The Victors at Mo's Irish Pub in Vintage Park

** The Club thanks Tom & Jeanette Dooley for planning this outstanding event. We are always looking for members who are willing to help plan an event. If you are interested send a quick email to HoustonMGCarClub@gmail.com letting us know. Remember the HMGCC is completely led and operated by volunteers, the more help we have the better the experience for everyone.

Photo's From the GoF

Wed, 30 Oct 2019 13:21:23 GMT

The Texas MG Register has posted an online album of photos from the GoF on their website. Thank you to Gary Sandusky for his great work as photographer.

https://www.tmgr.org/fall-2019-gof-photos/

2019 GoF Katy, TX

Fri, 25 Oct 2019 01:56:53 GMT

Story by Dwight Dawson, Photos by Dale Schiller, Gary Sandusky, Mike Gentry & Bob Chalker

It was a special weekend in October for the HMGCC, being our privilege to host the 2019 Fall Gathering of the Faithful. The Texas-sized event that MG aficionados enjoy once or twice a year was held at old Downtown Katy and several other nearby locations on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, October 17-19, 2019.

Arriving at the Holiday Inn - Katy

The Holiday Inn at Katy Mills Mall was our home base and registration center. Most participants from Dallas, Austin, and other cities north of us stayed there and enjoyed meals and adult beverages in nearby restaurants. The festivities began Thursday with a Nacho & Rita party at Los Cucos, a short walk from the hotel.

Thursday Night Dinner at Los Cucos

Then Friday morning’s tour on swooping country roads west and south of Katy challenged driving skills in many of the MGs present. In the afternoon, participants enjoyed visiting Hemi Hideout in Brookshire, where owner John Hovas houses an amazing collection of American muscle cars, neon signs and memorabilia in the largest timber structure in Texas.

The GoF crowd touring Hemi Hideout

Back in Katy, the No Label Brewery was an evening gathering place for thirsty drivers and navigators.

Before the sun was up Saturday morning, heavy dew was being wiped from pristine MG paint of every color. Organized chaos ensued as nearly 70 LBCs were lined up for the caravan to the show site in old Downtown Katy.

Sunrise over MG's

Every MG stopped en route for a photo with the caboose at the MKT Railroad Museum.

MKT meets MGTD

Photos attest to the wide display of the various classes of MGs parked on the streets near Katy’s historic City Hall. Street vendors of all description filled the Katy Market Day stalls, ensuring sauntering foot traffic from hundreds of admirers of our now little-seen British sports cars.

A couple great views of the show field

MG Expert and Technical Guru John Twist from Michigan spent hours at the show in his “rolling tech session.” A number of lucky GOF participants shared time under the tent with John as he made minor mechanical adjustments. His endless recitation of MG facts and recommendations were informative and entertaining for all who gathered around.

John Twist sharing his expertise

The traditional awards banquet followed at Midway Barbecue as the sun retired for the day. A silent auction provided distraction during the cocktail hour and a generous buffet dinner followed. The evening closed with awarding of trophies to the winners in the show competition, along with more live auction fun and camaraderie.

A sold out banquet at Midway BBQ

Back at the hotel, participants extended their evening of socializing and storytelling on the patio and other gathering spots. Sunday morning provided yet another great breakfast as MGs rolled out at leisure for the road home.

The expansive efforts required to plan and produce a GOF were fully realized by Ron Redding, Bob and Kim Chalker, and the dozens of volunteers from the Houston MG Car Club. We have enjoyed the organization and hospitality of other clubs for many years and were pleased to take the lead this year as hosts of the 2019 Fall Gathering of the Faithful. GOFs occur twice a year, and we encourage all HMGCC members to attend and enjoy these great events filled with delicious food, friendly folks and twisting roads. It is truly a time-honored tradition.

Departing the Hemi Hideout

It's the Great Pumpkin Rally Charlie Brown

Mon, 21 Oct 2019 21:51:18 GMT

Just because you missed the Gof doesn't mean you won't be able to drive your MG in October. On October 26th the club is hosting the Great Pumpkin Rally from 2:00 to 5:00pm. Get your car out, put on your best Halloween costume and come on out for a bit of fun with the cars. Great Pumpkin Rally

It's A Wrap...

Mon, 21 Oct 2019 21:30:44 GMT

Photos by Mike Gentry & Dale Schiller

The 2019 Fall TMGR was this past weekend in Katy and by all accounts it was a huge success. We had great weather, over 65 cars, hundreds of people and a great weekend full of driving, eating and enjoying a bit of merriment with friends, from across the great state of Texas, who love their MG's. There will be more to share in the near future but for now here are a few photos from the event. Enjoy!

HMGCC's Mike Gentry and Jim Early with the legend, John Twist

Gracie - Wayne Kube 1937 MG VA Saloon

We aren't sure what this is but it does have an MG logo

Ron Redding's 1958 Magnette

GoF Registrations potentially lost or delayed

Fri, 04 Oct 2019 00:21:39 GMT

We have learned that during tropical storm Imelda the post office in Houston had damage and there is the potential that mail has been lost or delayed. If you mailed in your registration and have not received a confirmation email please contact Bob Chalker at houstonmgcarclub@gmail.com and let him know. Bob and Kim will make arrangements for taking your registration.

2019 Houston All British Car Day Award Winners

Wed, 02 Oct 2019 22:20:50 GMT

We are pleased to share the award winners from this year's Houston All British Car Day. We had an outstanding field of cars with over 70 entries. I am sure that they crowd found the voting to be difficult with so many great cars.

Arnel Brown won Best of show with his 1953 MG TD

We also gave away two prizes in a random drawing. Kenny Daves won a $100 gift certificate from Moss Motors and Richard Langer won a $25 certificate from Rock Auto. We thank both companies for the support of our event.

CONGRATULATIONS to all of our winners. (click here to be taken to the award winners.

Once again this year a significant portion of the proceeds went to support the Russ Seto Scholarship.

Driver's Award Standings

Tue, 01 Oct 2019 11:17:39 GMT

Thanks as always to Greg for preparing the below report :

The Houston All British Car Day

Sat, 28 Sep 2019 14:47:19 GMT

The Houston All British Car Day was a true success despite the threats of tropical storm Imelda, the skies cleared and we had a beautiful day with over 70 British classics, from across the decades, on the show grounds at the Wild Stallion Vineyards.

Here are scenes from the day....

Houston The Show Is A Go!

Fri, 20 Sep 2019 02:47:02 GMT

Several of you have asked if the Houston All British Car Day will be happening on Saturday. AccuWeather is calling for the storms to be out of the area, partly cloudy skies and no rain for Saturday morning and early afternoon. The organizers will be visiting the site tomorrow to confirm all is well but we are planning for the show to go on as planned. If anything changes we will post it here.

We have over 75 cars registered, even if you are not showing your LBC come on out and see these beautiful vehicles.

Safety fast!

Hotel Rooms for the GoF

Sun, 15 Sep 2019 13:41:17 GMT

The excitement around the Gathering of the Faithful continues to build. Hotel registration has been strong. Through the cooperation of the host hotel, the Holiday Inn Katy Mills we have been able to add a few rooms and extend the cut off for the discount room rate until September 26th.

If you want a room at the host hotel don't wait

Room rate is $85.00 for double or king bed, includes breakfast Buffet

Rate is available for Thursday, Friday & Saturday night

Reservations can be made by calling 281-712-2363 or online HERE

The room block is in the name of Texas MG Register

When booking online make sure TMG is in the Group Code box

The Marque of Friendship

Wed, 11 Sep 2019 18:56:22 GMT

Incase you missed it on our Facebook page, here is a photo from our club meeting new members Scott & Trish hardy as they drive their MG from Calgary to Houston. The Gilberts, Dawsons, Bards and Laverocks met them in College Station to escort them to their new home. Does this not make you thankful that you are a member of such a warm and welcoming club of people. Safety Fast!

Driver's Award Standings.

Mon, 09 Sep 2019 18:47:58 GMT

Dear All,

Here is the latest standings of the driver's award. As always, thanks to Greg for keeping up with all of the arithmetic. :)

2020 - 2021 Officer and Board Elections

Fri, 06 Sep 2019 02:24:21 GMT

The election for the Houston MG Car Club's Officers and Board of Directors for 2020-2021 is now open through October 3rd. As in the past, each member family has two votes. Below you will find two links, one for your family's first vote and one for the second. You must be a member of the Houston MG Car Club to vote.

Member family's first vote

Member family's second vote

You can also vote by emailing your selections to HoustonMGCarClub@gmail.com

Nominated slate

Secretary

Trish Hardy

Treasurer

Fran Carpenter

Board of Directors (Select 2)

Tony Galt

Tim Weeks

Write in candidates will be accepted for all positions but please confirm with the individual that they are willing to accept the responsibilities of the position before adding their name to the ballot.

Remember your vote needs to be received by October 3rd. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to ask

HELP Wanted!

Mon, 02 Sep 2019 14:36:25 GMT

We still need volunteers for the GoF. If you would like to help out you can either sign up at the September monthly meeting or send an email to houstonmgcarclub@gmail.com with the activity for which you want to volunteer and your phone number.

If you would like to help out in more than one are please feel free to do so, but be consonant that your commitments don’t overlap from a timing standpoint.

Registration – 5 Volunteers

Kim Chalker has agreed to lead the registration effort with the assistance of Dwight & Candi Dawson. We have a good team, but we could always use more help during the event. Registration will be open Thursday, 4 to 6pm; Friday 8 to 11am and 2 to 4pm; and Saturday, 7 to 8:30am. If you can help during one or all of these times, please volunteer.

Auction Items – 2 Volunteers

The GoF always gets a wealth of items donated for the auction held during the banquet. Those items are on display at the registration site and then are moved to the banquet hall on Saturday afternoon. We need two volunteers to help move these items, total trip is approximately 3 miles. The commitment for this is 1 to 2 hours late Saturday afternoon.

Friday Morning Drive – 3 Volunteers

We need a couple volunteer to assist Bob Chalker with the Saturday morning drive. The volunteers will be responsible for meeting the other participants in the parking lot and leading them out of Katy and on the drive following a pre-planned route. Since the route is already planned, this is a fun way to volunteer and the commitment is only for Friday morning.

Hemi Hideout drive – 3 Volunteers

We need a couple volunteers to assist Ron Redding with the Saturday afternoon drive.. The volunteers will be responsible for meeting the other participants in the parking lot and leading them out of Katy and on the drive following a pre-planned route. Since the route is already planned, this is a fun way to volunteer and the commitment is only for Friday afternoon.

Saturday Morning Car Line up – 3 Volunteers

We need someone to lead and a couple of assistants for the lining up of the cars in the Holiday Inn parking lot for the drive to the car show. Based on the instructions of Barry Glass, the car show planner, you will line the cars up, by model, in the order that they are to enter the car show area downtown Katy. Once lined up, you will lead them, following a map which will be provided, to the location for photos and then on to the car show. There will be volunteers in the photo area and in the car show area to assist with direction. The commitment is for an hour or so on Saturday morning.

Car Show Staging – 4 Volunteers

We need three to four people to assist with the staging of the cars on the street downtown Katy for the car show. Barry Glass, from the TMGR will lead this activity but he needs a few people to help him. The volunteers will need to be available from approximately 7 to 10am on Saturday morning.

Car Photos – 2 Volunteers

We will be taking photos of the participants in their cars in front of the MKT Caboose. Gary Sandusky, from the TMGR, will be taking the photos, as he does for most GoF’s and his wife will be assisting him, but he could use one or two more volunteers to assure everything run smoothly. You will need to be available Saturday morning from approximately 8:30 to 9:45am.

Saturday Lunch – 3 Volunteers

Fran Carpenter is the lead for the lunch and is making all the arrangements, but she needs two or three volunteers to help the day of the show to set up, distribute and clean up.

Car Show Clean Up – 4 Volunteers

In the past we have had issues with leaving litter behind at the show. We have made a commitment to the City of Katy to assure we leave the area of the car show as good, if not cleaner, than we found it. We need someone to lead this effort and two or three people to help. We will be purchasing garbage cans and liners to place in the area of the show. We need volunteers to make sure those cans are emptied when they are full and then to police the area during the event. This commitment is for Saturday from 10:00am until the show ends Saturday afternoon.

Banquet Set Up and Clean Up – 5 or More Volunteers

Ron Redding is coordinating the banquet and he needs at least four people the day of the banquet to assist in setting up, decorating and cleaning up afterwards.

Please volunteer by signing up during the monthly meeting or sending an email to HoustonMGCarClub@gmail.com

THANK YOU!

Christmas Party Registration Is Now Open

Thu, 29 Aug 2019 17:12:57 GMT

It may be 100 degrees and 85% humidity outside, but the Houston MG Car Club already has visions of sugar plumbs dancing in their heads. This year's Christmas party will be Saturday, December 14th, Noon to 4:00 pm at Falcon Point Golf Club. Mark it on your calendars, you don't want to miss it. Registration is now open on the website.

Club Events & Activities

Wed, 28 Aug 2019 02:21:35 GMT

There is no doubt that the Houston MG Car Club is not letting the moss grow under our wheels and the mice to make nests under our bonnets. There are several new events that have been posted. Check them out, there is something for everyone.

Texas All British Car Days - The club will be traveling together for the weekend in Round Rock for this excellent event.

Great Pumpkin Rally - It has been a while since the club has had a rally, don't miss this not so scary event.

Don't forget to register for the 30th Annual Houston All British Car Day and the Texas MG Register Gathering of the Faithful, the early bird registration for both events will be expiring soon.

And stay tuned to the website as we will be announcing the plans for the Christmas Party very soon!

It's awesome to be members of a club that is active and whose members love to drive their cars.

Safety Fast!

MG House Call #3

Sat, 17 Aug 2019 21:27:23 GMT

By Dwight Dawson

Saturday morning was again a perfect time to stop by a new member garage to welcome fellow LBC people. David (Nugget) McNett and Monica Harrison rolled out their (3rd generation ownership) 1960 Austin Healey Bugeye Sprite in solid original condition. It runs well but, like all our cars, it needs a little attention. Nugget and Monica are both serious race aficionados and contenders and have the hardware to prove it. Don’t be fooled when you see just their seasoned Bugeye at a future event or meeting. Rich Colwell, Ray Holtzapple and Dwight Dawson enjoyed Nugget and Monica’s hospitality at their home inside the Loop and hope you too can meet them soon.

Would love to have you all join us on these visits.

(Dwight promises to have photos in the future)

A New Twist on the GoF

Sat, 10 Aug 2019 01:45:13 GMT

We are pleased to announce that John Twist will be attending the 2019 Fall TMGR Gathering of the Faithful offering one of his famous rolling tech sessions on Saturday afternoon following the car show. John will join us, in Katy, for most of the event, joining us on the drives, walking the car show and attending the social events. There will be plenty of opportunity to meet John and discuss the ins and outs of MG’s.

The rolling tech session will be held on the Katy square, the location of the car show, from noon to 3:00pm. During onsite registration, anyone interested in having John work on their car will be able to sign up for a random drawing. The names of the 10 lucky registrants will be drawn onsite at the car show. You must be present, with your car, at the time your name is drawn, otherwise we will move on to the next name.

If you have never participated, or if you have, in one of John’s rolling tech sessions, it is a great experience. Not only does John address issues with the cars, he takes the time to show and explain exactly what he is doing. He is a patient teacher and enjoys answering questions and discussing the cars. We are also working with John for him to make a slide presentation while he is with us.

If you have not already registered for the GoF, we encourage you to do so soon. You don’t want to miss this opportunity to learn from one of the world’s leading MG experts. Early Bird registration closes September 30^th.

UPDATE: GoF Breaking News!

Fri, 09 Aug 2019 17:43:32 GMT

Although the organizers are being very tight lipped about the changes to the schedule and who the special guest might be, they have said that this will bring a very unique twist to the event, making it one no one is going to want to miss. They also said to expect an announcement later today or early tomorrow morning.

Cool Bowling

Fri, 09 Aug 2019 17:23:15 GMT

By Dave Renner, photos by Dwight Dawson

A baker’s dozen of HMGCC members and friends rolled into the air conditioned Del Mar Lanes at 3020 Mangum Rd on Saturday, July 27, 2019 to knock down some tenpins out of the summer sun. The high rollers split up between two lanes with random teams of six bowlers assembling per lane and the fun commenced. By chance, the more skilled bowlers in the group gravitated to one lane, while the rest hammered the hardwood on the other.

The skilled team included Mike and Stephanie Woodward, Alex and Linda Laverock and Scott and Trish Hardy. Many strikes and spares were recorded on their scoreboard. On the other lane, Gordon Bard, Dwight and Candy Dawson and Dave and Linda Renner were joined by the Renners’ son Colin and “ringer” 2½ year old grandson Philip. While the skill level wasn’t as high, the spirits certainly were as Philip tried bowling for the very first time. Even gutter balls were cause for pure delight followed by total joy once the bumpers were raised and he knocked down some pins. Two hours passed with lots of laughter and more than a few groans. Several members of Team Philip would have loved to have the bumpers to improve their games.

Once the last ball was rolled, the hungry and thirsty crew drove to the nearby Live Oak Grill for lunch and drinks. Tall tales were told and scores were inflated as the camaraderie was shared. Out in the parking lot under the tall oak trees, Gordon Bard’s 1973 MGB, the Dawsons’ 1973 MGB and the Hardys’ 1980 MGB gave other guests fair warning that the HMGCC was inside.

BREAKING NEWS!

Fri, 09 Aug 2019 00:59:15 GMT

A breaking story from the planning of the 2019 TMGR GoF in Katy, TX. The news staff from The ROARS are pursuing a story that there will be a very special guest at the TMGR Gathering of the Faithful in Katy, TX. It is expected that the story will be confirmed over the weekend. Check The ROARS regularly for updates.

Great Turnout At Monthly August Meeting

Mon, 05 Aug 2019 11:44:39 GMT

Over thirty HMGCC members and guests attended our monthly meeting at Lyndon's BBQ and we almost exceeded the seating capacity of our assigned meeting room.

Members were provided with informative talks from Paul Kwan of the Lotus club and Nick Roccaforte of the Austin MG club both of whom extended invitations for us to join in some of their respective club activities.

Dwight reported that our numbers continue to grow with 127 paid up members at this time. In a similar manner our bank account continues to grow with a current balance of around $12,000.00 although, as Glen pointed out, approximately $4,000.00 of this is assigned for the ABCD and GOF.

See y'all next month in Katy.

Safety fast!

Mike.

The pictures below are courtesy of Roberto Fernandez :

Driver's Award Standings

Fri, 02 Aug 2019 01:50:20 GMT

As always many thanks to Greg for keeping track of the award standings.

Safety fast!

Mike.

We Need YOU!

Thu, 25 Jul 2019 17:37:03 GMT

The 2019 TMGR Fall GoF is getting closer and closer and the planning continues to go well. We are now at the point where it is time to assure we have a line up of volunteers to help during the days of the event. The following is a list of positions. If you would like to help out you can either sign up at the August and September monthly meeting or send an email to houstonmgcarclub@gmail.com with the activity for which you want to volunteer and your phone number.

If you would like to help out in more than one are please feel free to do so, but be consonant that your commitments don’t overlap from a timing standpoint.

Registration – 5 Volunteers

Kim Chalker has agreed to lead the registration effort with the assistance of Bob and Dwight & Candi Dawson. We have a good team, but we could always use more help during the event. Registration will be open Thursday, 4 to 6pm; Friday 8 to 11am and 2 to 4pm; and Saturday, 7 to 8:30am. If you can help during one or all of these times, please volunteer.

Auction Items – 2 Volunteers

Friday Morning Drive – 3 Volunteers

We need a volunteer to lead the Saturday morning drive and one or two people to assist. The person would be responsible for meeting the other participants in the parking lot and leading them out of Katy and on the drive following a preplanned route. Since the route is already planned, this is a fun way to volunteer and the commitment is only for Friday morning, although it is recommended that the lead person drive the route at least once prior to the event to familiarize themselves.

Hemi Hideout drive – 3 Volunteers

We need a volunteer to lead the Saturday afternoon drive and one or two people to assist. The person would be responsible for meeting the other participants in the parking lot and leading them out of Katy and on the drive following a preplanned route. Since the route is already planned, this is a fun way to volunteer and the commitment is only for Friday afternoon, although it is recommended that the lead person drive the route at least once prior to the event to familiarize themselves.

Saturday Morning Car Line up – 3 Volunteers

We need someone to lead the lining up of the cars in the Holiday Inn parking lot for the drive to the car show. Based on the instructions of the car show planner, you will line the cars up, by model, in the order that they are to enter the car show area downtown Katy. Once lined up, you will lead them, following a map which will be provided, to the location for photos and then on to the car show. There will be volunteers in the photo area and in the car show area to assist with direction. The commitment is for an hour or so on Saturday morning.

Car Show Staging – 4 Volunteers

Car Photos – 2 Volunteers

We will be taking photos of the participants in their cars in front of the MKT Caboose. Barry Glass, from the TMGR, will be taking the photos, as he does for most GoF’s and his wife will be assisting him, but he could use one or two more volunteers to assure everything run smoothly. You will need to be available Saturday morning from approximately 8:30 to 9:45am.

Saturday Lunch – 3 Volunteers

Fran Carpenter is the lead for the lunch and is making all the arrangements, but she needs two or three volunteers to help the day of the show to set up, distribute and clean up.

Car Show Clean Up – 4 Volunteers

Banquet Set Up and Clean Up – 5 or More Volunteers

Ron Redding is coordinating the banquet and he needs at least four people the day of the banquet to assist in setting up, decorating and cleaning up afterwards.

Please volunteer by signing up during the monthly meeting or sending an email to HoustonMGCarClub@gmail.com

THANK YOU!

FLASHBACK! 1994 Big Bend Road Trip

Tue, 23 Jul 2019 17:57:57 GMT

Club member Dwight Dawson recently shared with us this write up from the Club's 1994 tour to Big Bend National Park.

Rumor has it there is a plan in the works for a return to Big Bend in 2020.

We love hearing great stories and seeing photos from the club's history. As the Houston MG Car Club approaches it's 50th anniversary, please share your stories. Email them to Houstonmgcarclub@gmail.com and we will post them in The Roars.

MG House Calls

Mon, 15 Jul 2019 13:05:29 GMT

Say what?? Does that involve a doctor?

These brief visits to the driveway/garage of newer members are designed to welcome them, admire their cars, field their questions, and encourage their club participation.

A few House Calls have already been scheduled and members will soon receive an email with the details. If you are able to give a couple of hours on a Saturday morning, please plan to participate and help others really understand what the Houston MG Car Club is all about. MG is the Marque of Friendship, and helping and encouraging new members get their cars on the road and enjoying our events will be the happy result.

HMGCC members exist in all parts of our huge Houston metropolis. When you see an address in your area, you will know what to do. House Call emails are coming soon as our Club continues to grow.

Membership Chairman, Dwight Dawson, is coordinating this and will appreciate your assist.

NEW MEMBERS IN 2019

Mon, 15 Jul 2019 12:58:11 GMT

The Houston MG Car Club, in its 48th year of activity, continues to attract great people who share our affinity for the beloved MG Sports Car. While some members enjoy other British autos as well, we are a family of MG Friends.

Since Jan. 1 these are our new members:

ROBERT BAMFORD 1963 MIDGET

ARNEL BROWN 1953 MGTD, 1967 MGB

GUILLERMO CORPUS

JON CROCKER 1955 MORRIS MINOR

DAVID AND BETTY DODD 1978 MGB

TOM AND JEANETTE DOOLEY (Were also Earlier Members 1978-1990)

ROBERTO AND NORMA FERNANDEZ 1966 MGB

PETER AND MARIA FERRER 1963 COBRA REPLICA, 3 JAGUARS

TOM FINNIS Riley RMC

DAVID AND ANA GARZA 1978 MGB

SCOTT AND TRISH HARDY 1972 MGB

ED AND JUDI HELSING 1967 MIDGET

NEIL AND PAULA HUMPHREYS 1970 MGB

ALEX AND LINDA LAVEROCK 1980 MGB

JIM AND MICHAEL ANN LENTZ 1969 MGB GT

DAN LIMBAUGH 1970 MGB

DENNIS LUDA

SHANNON SASSER 1957 MGA

TERRY AND YVONNE SIMONDS 1953 MGTD

RICHARD AND JENNIE SMITH 1958 MGA

SAMUEL STENGLER 1972 MGB

JOHN WALTON 1977 MGB, 1974 MGB, 1947 MGTC

JANE AND RUEL WILEY 1953 MGTD

ALASTAIR AND SAMANTHA WINNER MGA, ASTON MARTIN V12 VANTAGE S

KIM AND JENNIFER WITTENBERG 1977 MGB, 1968 MGB GT

DANA WOODRUFF 2008 BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT SPEED, 2018 TESLA MODEL 3

ROBERT AND ANTOINETTE WRIGHT 1971 MGB GT

WELCOME EVERYBODY!!

All members are reminded that they can modify their Membership details (cars, names, phone, address, etc.) on the website as follows:

1. log in at http://houstonmgcc.com

2. click on the “little blue man” icon on upper right of page

3. View Profile

4. Edit Profile

125 Members

Tue, 09 Jul 2019 02:13:20 GMT

We are pleased to welcome Jane & Ruel Wiley and their 1953 MG TD to the club, our 125th member family.

Yes, The Day Was Hot, But The Turn Out was Even Hotter

Mon, 08 Jul 2019 20:20:53 GMT

The Club's July monthly meeting, held at Mo's Irish Pub in Katy, was a hot one. Our weather returned to typical Houston July heat and humidity but this didn't stifle a great turn out. We had over 50 club members and guests joining us for great fellowship, good food and a splash of cool refreshing ice tea or a wallop (look it up, wallop is a British term).

We heard from Pete Sandy of the Austin Healey club and Steve Bauserman with the Morgan's on the Coast (the local Morgan Owners Group), who shared about their organization's activities and how they are keeping the spirit of the British car culture alive in the Houston area. We were also pleased to have Nick Pappas from the Texas MG Register join us. Nick was in town to help a friend work on his car. We received updates on both the upcoming Gathering of the Faithful, October 17-19th, and the 30th Annual Houston All British Car Day, September 21st, where the featured marquee is the Jaguar.

Mo's Irish Pub are fantastic hosts, taking great care of us with food that has a touch of the British Isles and was bloody good. We also had the opportunity to speak with the Regional Manager and he could not have been more happy to have us in the house. We will be returning to Mo's for the September club meeting. Don't worry, we have already arranged to be inside on the lower level, well out of the heat and where we should have much better acoustics.

Stephanie Woodward is introducing the next generation to our LBC's

Steve Bauserman looks ready for the Tour De France

All Aboard The MKT

Fri, 05 Jul 2019 16:42:13 GMT

The Fall GoF train is picking up speed and we all look forward to a great time in Katy, TX, Oct 17 to 19th. The theme is built around Katy’s long history as a railroad stop on the Missouri-Kansas-Texas railway. We will be enjoying the small-town atmosphere of local restaurants, old railroad sites, Antiques, beautiful country sides and an old-fashion town square.

Our festivities will kick off on Thursday night with a margarita reception at Los Cucos’ Mexican Café. The first margarita is complimentary. On Friday we will start the morning early with a drive into the country-side touring through the area’s ranchland and rice farms, returning to the Katy for lunch at Mo’s Irish Pub (we had to sneak a little of the UK into the weekend ). On Friday afternoon we will be headed out to visit the hemi-Hideout one of Texas’ best kept automotive secrets.

The HH is a 21,700 sq. Ft. ultimate man cave that is full of classic Dodge and Plymouth muscle cars, antique tractors, classic motorcycles, neon signs and other memorabilia, all restored to their original glory. The facility is surrounded by beautiful landscaping with pecan and weeping willow trees. The $10.00 donation will be given to a local charity and matched by the owner of the Hemi-Hideout. This is one you won’t want to miss.

Friday late afternoon/early evening we will be at the iconic No-Label Brewery a local craft brewery located in the historic Katy rice silos, situated along the tracks, where we will kick the tires and swap stories of our MG adventures. No Label will have food trucks available for those who just want to relax and enjoy the fall evening. There is plenty of space, but it wouldn’t hurt to bring a bag chair along as the tables can fill up quickly. For those of you who would like to head out to a restaurant, there are plenty of options.

On Saturday morning we will be holding the car show downtown Katy around the newly renovated town square. The show will be in conjunction with Katy Market Day, a monthly outdoor market with over 65 vendors, food trucks and live music. The vendors will be offering jewelry, original artwork, handmade goods, home décor, furniture, clothing and so much more. And if your passion is antiques (which it must be or why else own an old car), Katy is home to many fine antique shops. Lunch will be from Jason’s Deli. On Saturday morning, on our way to the show, you will have the opportunity to have your car photographed in front of the MKT Caboose.

Saturday night we will head to the Midway BBQ to celebrate the show’s award winners. Starting as a small shack in the 1990’s, Midway has grown to be one of the 314 most popular BBQ restaurants in the Houston Area, truly a local favorite. We will be hosting a social hour from 6 to 7 pm with dinner starting at 7pm, cash bar throughout the evening.

Host Hotel

Hotel space at the Holiday Inn is going fast, if you haven’t made your reservation please do so soon. You can call the hotel at 281-712-2363. The room block is under “Texas MG Register.” You can also register online by clicking HERE. Make sure when registering online to use Group Code TMG. The rate is $85.00 per night for Thursday, Friday and Saturday night.

If you haven’t yet, it is time to get onboard the MKT. Register for the event HERE

Driver's Award Standings

Tue, 02 Jul 2019 10:43:02 GMT

Here are the current standings for the Driver's Award. Thanks as always to Greg for preparing the report.

Club Drives to Richmond, TX

Mon, 01 Jul 2019 12:36:47 GMT

By Dwight Dawson

Our June 29 driving event provided new reasons to visit the Richmond area…and to participate in Club events.

To get started, our gathering at the Hickory Barn BBQ ensured a hearty Texas lunch. Then, driving just a short distance in town, we discovered the Dry Creek Social Club for beverages and social repartee in the ice house and on its comfortable patio. These events are always a great place to get to know newer members. Once again, Alex Laverock was there with his 1980 MGB LE. Dana Woodruff, a member for just a few weeks, braved the heat in her modest British auto, a smart-looking 2008 Bentley Continental GT Speed. (Haste. Rapidity. Precipitousness. With another 48 horsepower extracted from the twin-turbo W-12 to make 600 net, and another 74 pound-feet of torque making 553 net, and a 60-mph time of four seconds flat, they should have called it the Continental GT Whupass. Car and Driver Apr 1, 2008)

Our organization has always been an “open-marque” car club, and Dana’s car will be a very welcome addition to our All British Car Day in September. Peter and Maria Ferrer trekked in one of their Jaguars; the Jaguar will be the Featured Marque at the September show. Who knows… anyone can “move up” to an MG once they have owned other British marques.

The skies were threatening that Saturday and the radar maps were quite colorful. But we drove 80 miles total and our MGB did not see a single drop of rain. The Texas climate truly enables year-round excursions. Thanks, Jim Early, for arranging a very fine event. As the photos illustrate, there were 14 attendees and 6 MGs.

30th Annual All British Car Day

Mon, 24 Jun 2019 13:22:13 GMT

REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN!

We are pleased to announce that the 30th Annual All British Car Day will be held Saturday, September 21st at the Wild Stallion Vineyards in the Woodlands. Registration will be opening soon. For more details go to the event's page.

2019 Fall GoF Registration Is OPEN!

Tue, 18 Jun 2019 15:03:58 GMT

Registration for the 2019 Katy GoF is now open, click the image below to be taken to the event page to register and book your hotel rooms.

Announcing the Artwork for the Katy GoF...

Wed, 12 Jun 2019 23:55:58 GMT

Setting The Pace

Sat, 08 Jun 2019 14:22:50 GMT

Wayne Hardy drove his 1958 MG ZB as the pace car for the Corinthian Vintage Auto Racing held at MSR Houston the weekend of May 4 & 5th.

Above is a photo of a member Wayne Hardy's 1958 MG ZB Magnette doing a different kind of outing..serving as the official pace car at a vintage sports car races south of Houston at Houston Motorsports Ranch, early in May. Wayne says "this is our 1958 MG ZB Magnette sedan, winner of a trophy or 2 of it's own in various HABMVE and HMGCC evnts over the years. It's still running great, gets driven almost every weekend up here in the Piney Woods, and also participates in an annual Antique Auto Club of America (AACA) Tour Texas event, which is a 3 days driving and visiting interesting places, followed by a shiny car show judged according to Antique Auto Club standards where originality counts for a a lot." Wayne and his family have been Houston MG Car Club members since 1988.

Italian Job Flare

Sun, 02 Jun 2019 16:43:02 GMT

There were no Mini's present but the July meeting was a smashing success with Italian flare. We gathered at the Grotto, an Italian Bistro in the Woodlands, with more than 35 people in attendance. We even had a Ferrari Mondial in the parking lot owned by new member Ed Hesling and his wife Judi.

Sneed Adams provided an update on Keels & Wheels and John Bowyer shared with us the happenings and member benefits of the Rolls Royce Owners Club.

Sneed Adams

John highlighted how valuable the technical bulletins and knowledge sharing is to keeping his cars running well. If you are not a member of the MG National organizations we highly encourage you to join. They also have a wealth of information about our cars with lots and lots of great advice. You can get more information on joining on our resource page.

John Bowyer

We were also joined by new members Scott and Trish Hardy who just moved from Calgary. They have a 1972 Teal Blue MGB that is back in Canada waiting for them to bring it to Houston. I suspect the weather will be a bit of a shock to its system.

With the addition of the Helsing's and the Hardy's our membership now stands at 120 families.

Other reports included an update on the Katy GoF, financial report and news on other club events and happenings. We were pleased to learn that Ron was able to secure the City of Katy's support for the GoF as an official event of the Katy Convention and Tourism Bureau.

We even had a few club members brave the heat and join us in their cars.

Driver's Award Standings

Fri, 31 May 2019 14:57:17 GMT

Here is the latest standings in the driver's award. Many thanks as always to Greg for compiling the report.

Sunset over MGA

Fri, 31 May 2019 02:57:10 GMT

A beautiful photo from club member Ken Evesson who was in Kemah, TX...

Do you have a great photo of your car? Send it to HoustonMGCarClub@gmail.com and we will post it in The ROARS. Let's celebrate these beautiful vehicles.

2019 Safety Inspection Day

Mon, 27 May 2019 13:58:48 GMT

On Saturday the Houston MG Car Club held a safety inspection thanks to the generosity of Ron Redding. Although only six cars made it out to 5R Restorations, the day was a success for those who were there. Ron, with assistance of Mike Woodward completed a thorough stationary review of the cars checking, lights, brakes, horn, windshield wipers, suspension components and steering and a variety of other safety related items.

Ron showing Robert Fernandez a needed repair

I think we were all a bit surprised what was found. All the cars at the session are well maintained and driven frequently by their owners who are knowledgeable and capable of doing the needed maintenance work. That said, we found brake lights that were not working, broken suspension strap, dry-rotted bushings and missing or damaged parts of various kinds. Kind of makes you wonder what may be found on other cars in the club.

A broken rebound strap

MIke Woodward inspecting Dwight Dawson's MG

After completing the inspections we headed down to Fulshear to Dozier's BBQ to swap stories and a bit of all-in-fun ribbing of one another over what we found wrong with our cars.

Don Lantz MGA at Dozier's

Our cars all lined up outside, while we were inside enjoying delicious food and great friendships!

The maintenance of our cars is critical to assuring that we can safely drive them. Having a qualified expert inspect the car is an important part of regular maintenance. For those of you who were unable to make it this time, please do not miss the next one. It is one of the great benefits of being a member of the Houston MG Car Club.

Remember always be Safety Fast!

Ron completing an inspection form while Dwight, Mike and Don look on, hoping their own cars will fair a little better

Bob Chalker and Mike discussion the broken turn signal switch on Bob's 72 MGB

One of the project cars in Ron's shop

Roberto and Norma Fernandez enjoying the beautiful weather while waiting for Roberto's car to be inspected

A unique innovation for keeping oil off the pavement on Mike Woodward's MGB

A great big THANK YOU to Ron Redding for hosting the safety inspections at his shop - 5R Restoration

All Aboard The MKT

Mon, 13 May 2019 21:01:33 GMT

With several club members putting the final touches on their plans for the Spring GoF in Salado next weekend, we thought it would be a good time to share with you the tentative plans for the Fall GoF being hosted by our club in Katy, October 17 -20th. Mark your calendars today!

We are excited about the line up of events including:

A Welcome reception at No Label Brewery
A country drive in the areas surrounding the City of Katy
Lunch at Mo's Irish Pub
A tour of the Hemi Hideout
Social hour at the MKT Distillery
Car photos in front of the MKT caboose
The car show being held in conjunction with Katy Market Day
The banquet at a Old Katy favorite, Midway BBQ

Registration for the event will open soon, in the meantime don't hesitate to make your hotel reservations at the Holiday Inn, Katy Mills Mall. Room rate is $85.00 for a double or king bed. Reservations can be made by calling 281-712-2363. The room block is in the name of Texas MG Register.

For those of you who have volunteered to help with the event, stay tuned, we will be ramping up the planning in early summer.

Club Name Tags

Mon, 13 May 2019 20:30:40 GMT

When new Members join the club they are provided up to two name tags per family, with magnetic clasp at no additional cost. Use of the tags makes it easier for all of us to know each other and socialize. (If magnets are an issue, they can be ordered with just a safety pin.)

If you would like an additional name tag or have lost yours a new one can be ordered through the website's store. Additional tags or replacing lost tags are $20.00. Once you place your order send your preferred name to be put on the tag to the Membership Chairman, HoustonMGCarClub@gmail.com

If you did not receive name tags as a new member and would like to get one, AND WEAR THEM, also send an email to the membership chair at the HoustonMGCarClub@gmail.com. Additional tags or replacing lost tags are $20.00.

May Meeting

Wed, 08 May 2019 16:40:36 GMT

Door prize winners from our May monthly meeting

New Members Peter & Maria Ferrer

Terry & Linda Myers love their new HMGCC coffee mug

Club Treasurer Fran Carpenter drawing the next winner

Don & Dottie Lantz checking out their prize

A great time was had by all !!!

New Members Peter and Maria Ferrer

Texas Songwriter Serenade

Mon, 06 May 2019 02:40:58 GMT

By Bob Chalker

This Saturday’s weather was incredible, was it not? Maybe the best driving day of the year. So, reminiscence of our high school years, we played hooky from the Club’s monthly meeting and put the car to use doing what it was designed to do – a country drive. But this time it was a drive with a purpose. We went over to Moravia Texas to attend the Songwriter Serenade.

The Texas Songwriter Serenade is an annual competition, held the first Saturday in May, with singer songwriters from across the country competing for the top prize. It is held in Parish Hall, a very Texas style dance hall. The judges are all renown songwriters in their own right and the performers were outstanding. They weren’t just local talent, but were 15 of our country’s best, selected from over 170 entries. This year’s contestants were from Colorado, Ohio, Nashville, New York, Georgia, Boston, Utah, California as well as Texas.

The music was simply the songwriter and his or her guitar. No background musicians, no fancy electronics, just a person standing on the stage putting their talent on display in the rawest form. The lyrics covered topics ranging from love found to love lost, fast cars and old trucks, small towns and big cities, our country’s history to concerns of what the future holds and the Lord’s forgiveness and our salvation.

It was an afternoon of pure entertainment and the ticket price was just $15.00. They had food and beer for sale at the venue and the people couldn’t have been more friendly. Moravia is a short hour and 15 minute drive from Katy via I-10. If you want a little more enjoyable drive you can get there on country roads in under 2 hours. I see next May’s Club meeting possibly being a field trip.

To learn more about the Texas Songwriter Serenade click here.

Octagon Logo

Wed, 01 May 2019 16:56:31 GMT

95 years ago today Morris Garage trademarked the octagon logo. Here is a look at the logo’s over the years.

MG Royalty???

Wed, 24 Apr 2019 14:20:37 GMT

By Bob Chalker

Today on my MSN news-feed the following photo of Prince William and Princess Kate popped up. Could their chariot be an MGB? Nope, it is an Aston Martin.

Click on the photo to be taken to the full story.

(Warning it is a story about their romance, not about MG cars)

Drive Your MGA Day

Sun, 14 Apr 2019 03:42:55 GMT

Did you know that May 4th was Drive Your MGA Day. The NAMGAR has declared that this is the day that all of us who own MGA’s should have them out on the road. It just so happens that the Houston MG Car Club meeting is the same day at Lyndon’s BBQ, starting at 11:00am.

Looking forward to seeing all Houston local MGA owners there with your cars!

Back to the Future

Mon, 08 Apr 2019 02:50:40 GMT

Looking back almost 40 years, here is a page out of The ROARS from the 1980’s. Some dilema’s aren never resolved....

Latest Driver's Standings

Wed, 03 Apr 2019 11:42:42 GMT

Thanks as always to Greg Fleischer for keeping up with the latest standings.

Museum of the American G.I. 2019

Sun, 31 Mar 2019 19:02:26 GMT

By Fred Whitla

On Saturday March 23rd, MG Club members Ed Rosenquist, Tim and Pat Weeks, Fred and Lisa Whitla and a few family members enjoyed a day out at the Museum of the American G.I. As part of the Museum’s annual Living History Weekend, Saturday’s event was a tribute to World War II. We first met up at the Magnolia Diner for a great breakfast and lively discussion about our cars and military history. We then headed over to the museum about 45 minutes up Highway 6 to College Station, with one MG making the drive.

At the event there was much to see, including many operating vehicles such as Willys Jeeps, various military transport vehicles, tanks and motorcycles. There were many men and women in uniform as well as camp setups showing life as a soldier in WWII.

Demonstrations were given throughout the day, and rides on a tank or a Huey UH-1 helicopter were offered. The day’s climax was a re-enactment of a WWII battle with all the vehicles participating. All in all, it was a great outing and highly recommended if you get the chance to go.

Nacogdoches Weekend 2019

Mon, 25 Mar 2019 12:08:47 GMT

By Dwight Dawson, Photos by Greg Fleischer

A road-trip to a part of Texas many of us had never experienced… it was a March event that exceeded expectations. The official start was breakfast at the Roadhouse in Tomball.

Mike Woodward “borrowed” some routes and ideas from the Texas Triumph Register and refined a plan for our travels over a Friday, Saturday and Sunday. It was about 500 miles total driving and moved us through some very rural territory. Our noon meal was “in the woods” at a place that provided very tasty nourishment. Every entree was $10 but we would have paid that much or more for their scrumptious apple dumplings. Larry Bruce Gardens is near Kennard and a dining establishment really worth the trip.

By late afternoon, we arrived in Nacogdoches for a final stop at Toyland. In reality, it is a small warehouse full of toys from the ’50s and ’60s. Owner Randy Legler says, “I buy old toys and pedal cars.” As the photos attest, Randy has thousands of old toys that bring back childhood memories for most of us. It must be one of the largest collections of its type in the U.S.

Nacogdoches claims to be the “first town in Texas.” (There is evidence of Indians living there about 10,000 years ago.) The city of 33,000, home of Stephan F. Austin State University, has done a great job in preserving the past and providing a very comfortable small-town getaway with lots of history. As the sun set, we walked to a fine restaurant for a well-arranged group dinner. The bar back at the hotel provided beverages for easy sleep.

After breakfast on Saturday we traveled 65 miles back to Palestine in search of the Texas State Railroad. As we pulled into the parking lot we heard, “All Aboard!” With minutes to spare we found our assigned passenger “luxury car” for travel to Rusk, Texas, an hour and a half to our east. It was a comfortable Piney Woods journey, with lots of distractions on a mostly sunny day. In Rusk we enjoyed a pleasant picnic lunch by the lake as the ’50s era locomotive prepared for the return trip to Palestine. The road trip back to our hotel included many rolling, twisty country roads.

On a previous driving event, Gordon and Angie Bard tangled with a deer. We all observed that it rearranged the front of the 1972 blue MGB a bit. As you could almost predict on this trip, another deer was dancing at the side of the road as it timed its crossing over. After Gordon came to an abrupt STOP, the deer bolted across the narrow roadway. “Hit me once, shame on you. Hit me twice, shame on me.” We watched it happen from behind but could not get a camera up in time for a picture. We are glad that no British metal or deer hide was damaged this time.

Back in the oldest town in Texas, we enjoyed a little time at a local brewery, a block from the hotel, along with other St. Patrick’s Day patrons. Then it was another short walk to a restaurant for fine Italian cuisine.

With a leisurely start in the morning and a 10am rollout, we traveled west to our lunch spot, Jerry’s Cafe in Onalaska. There, Shy Quiet Gordon, reconnected not with a deer, but a dear, that he got know while securing vintage motorcycle parts some years ago. Ahhh… small-town Texas.

Stuffed again, we all headed back to the Big City using a variety of routes dictated by exact final destinations. Once again we observed that overnight Club events are not only fun but most effective in promoting closer friendships among participants. We welcomed brand new members Peter and Maria Ferrer who were compelled to drive along in their late model Jaguar. Others who will recall the enjoyment of this LBC trip for years ahead are: Gordon and Angie Bard, Walter and Leona Bernard, John and Cindy Blum, Dwight and Candy Dawson, Greg Fleischer, Bob and Kathy Schroeder, and Mike and Stephanie Woodward.

As participants who had no choice but to drive “a lesser car,” we can encourage that you tag along on these trips without an MG if you must. It will be well worth some embarrassment and minor harassment.

TTR Autocross 2019

Sun, 17 Mar 2019 02:52:44 GMT

By Dwight Dawson, Photos by Greg Fleischer

So what is an autocross? Several of us found a unique answer to that in an early March event organized by the Texas Triumph Register. Invited to play along were the Jaguar Club and the Houston MG Club.

On the Houston Police Academy grounds in far northeast Houston, a challenging .81 mile course with 43 ‘gates’ was created by event planners. The diagram here was provided to participants. To keep frequent drivers sharp, the exact course is modified each time the event is offered.

A slow drive-through with an event volunteer was the first exposure to the track for most of us. “A sharp turn is required here…a slowdown is recommended at this corner to avoid drifting into the mud…on the first lap you must turn RIGHT, and then turn LEFT on the second round to begin the slalom to the end alley.” This prompted us to study the diagram more carefully before the first official run. The experts told us to make the initial run deliberately slower and focus on the route. But once on the course, it was difficult to hold back. Run the best line and hug the pylons and press for speed… or some-such strategy. With top speeds varying greatly between 20 and 35 mph, many cars were only in 2nd gear or maybe 3rd. Screeching tires around the pylons and full acceleration exhaust notes were common. Some mud was observed on the sides of racers. A few total spinouts drew “oooohhh”s from the pits. The elapsed time of each run was recorded via electronic timers at the Start and Finish, and the number of runs limited only by waiting your turn behind other racers. Only one car was on the course at any given time.

With the run-time being so brief, your turn came around quickly. The truly most difficult part of the event may have been putting on and taking off the required helmet that was borrowed from a supply at the Start line (or maybe mine was just too small).

Bob Schroeder driving his 1957 MGA

What a treat it was to press an aged sports car to the limit! The greater limitation was usually the Driver. In my case, I had five runs— two of these were DNF (did not finish) because I missed that damn LEFT turn on the first lap, and went directly to the final slalom run and end alley. Each of my three successful runs was faster than the previous. Gordon Bard said one of his runs was slowed a bit because he started with the emergency brake engaged. The run times that day ranged from 138 seconds to less than 80. The data was available from the Timer at his computer consul, once you dared to ask and compare to others. The day’s final results appear here:

A time of 80 seconds means an average speed of 36.4 mph. On course, it seems much faster.

The greatest fun was going all out through the slalom segments. I hit one pylon soundly, which scuffed up the right front wing a bit. (Involuntary curse.) A fun surprise, when the day was done in my convertible, was finding bits of road-rubber debris (‘marbles’) spread upon the passenger seat. That had to be evidence of real RACING!

Who is that in the MGB wanna-a-be, it couldn't be Dwight, or could it?

In attendance from HMGCC were Greg Fleischer, Bob and Kathy Schroeder, Gordon Bard, Ray Holtzapple, Dwight Dawson and former member Keith Ryder. Running the autocross is a MUST-DO for all MG drivers. There is no better way to enjoy and really understand your LBC.

Gordon Bard pushing his 1972 MGB around the track

How To Fit Three Cars Plus their Parts In A Two Car Garage

Mon, 11 Mar 2019 01:19:33 GMT

By Mike Woodward

If you are like most of us with LBC’s sooner or later you simply run out of storage space for the cars and their parts. One solution is to rent an off-site storage unit but this needless to say requires the payment of rent. Another option is to consider a storage lift as I did and store one car on top of another:

Please be advised though that overhead clearance may be a problem requiring a solution such as this:

Then comes the question of where to put the parts, such as a factory hard top. My solution, inspired by Dwight Dawson, is shown below:

Should anyone need plans on how to construct this “hanging shelf” please pop me an email at mike.woodward@sbcglobal.net.

Safety fast!

Note from the Houston MG Car Club: If you have a tech tip that you think would be a benefit to your fellow club members, please submit it to houstonmgcarclub@gmail.com. We will publish it in the ROARS giving you attribution. Photos are always helpful but not required.

The Latest Driver Award Standings

Sun, 03 Mar 2019 04:37:59 GMT

Tech Tip: A Quick & Easy Way To Maintain Your LBC's Battery

Thu, 21 Feb 2019 16:43:35 GMT

By Mike Woodward

If you are like most of us your LBC is not your daily driver. As a result it can sit for a period of time over which the battery can drain down, so that when you want to go the car will not start as the battery is depleted. To solve this problem most of us connect a battery maintainer an example of which his shown here :

However getting power from the maintainer to the battery usually involves connecting those pesky alligator clips to the battery posts, which if it is like my MGB LE, is under the back parcel shelf and seemingly next to impossible to get to.

A simple solution to this situation is to connect an accessory power plug to the maintainer as shown below:

Then simply plug the power plug into the cigarette lighter socket of your LBC. If your car did not come equipped with a cigarette lighter outlet, it is a simple matter to add one as I did on my Morris Minor 1000 as shown here :

If you are in any doubt as to how to perform these modifications please contact your local auto electrician for advice.

Safety fast!

Club and Car Show Awards for 2019

Sun, 17 Feb 2019 19:49:11 GMT

By Mike Gentry

Your Houston MG Car Club has clarified and changed the annual awards for the Club and annual Car Show. The intent of these changes is to clarify eligibility requirements and provide a guideline on what awards are available and who is eligible to participate. All Club awards are presented at the annual Christmas Party.

First of all, let’s start with the HMGCC annual awards:

Driver’s Award: Awarded to the member with the most round trip miles (points) driven in an MG to a sponsored Club event. If no MG is owned by a member, miles (points) may be accumulated by driving another vintage (1980 and older) British marque vehicle. Timeline is November 1^st through October 31^st.

Alan Rayne Memorial Traveling Trophy (aka “Broken Crankshaft”): Humorously recognizes a Club member who incurs mechanical or other MG car breakdown issues to/from an official Club event.

Board of Directors’ Award: At the discretion of the Board, given to any Club member who provided exceptional leadership or service to the Board during the previous year.

President’s Award: At the discretion of the President, given to any Club member who provided exceptional leadership or service to the President including:

Contributing articles to the website or ROARS
Organizing one or more events
Attending multiple events during the year.

Presidential Recognition Award: Recognizes a successful term as President of the HMGCC. Given out every two years.

As most members are aware, our Club hosts an “All British” Car Show in the fall of each year. This show is open to all British marque vehicles and is open to the public. A long-standing tradition for our Club, 2019 will mark the 30^th annual event sponsored by our Club! The show this year will be held on Saturday, September 21st, 2019 and will be held in The Woodlands area for the first time in our Club history.

The “All British” Car Show awards are as follows:

Individual Class Awards: First, second & third class awards (depending on the number of vehicles registered). Voting is conducted by all registered participants.
Best in Show Award: Recognizes the vehicle that appeals most to registered participants. Voting is conducted by all registered participants.
Ralph Diebert Award: Award for the most popular MG marque vehicle whose owner is a current member of the HMGCC. Voting is conducted by all registered participants.
People’s Choice Award (new): Award for the British marque vehicle that appeals most to spectators and the general public, all of whom are eligible to vote.

Additional details for the Club and Car Show awards can be found in the “ABOUT” section of our website: www.houstonmgcc.com. Thanks and please reach out to any Board Member or Club Leadership if you have any questions.

Mike Gentry

Ralph Lauren's Love Of Cars Begins With A ....

Mon, 11 Feb 2019 18:38:30 GMT

1954 MG TD. That's right one of the richest men in the world, more importantly the man who has defined American clothing style for more than 50 years began his love affair for cars with a 1954 MG TD owned by his brother.

While on a flight for a business trip, I had the opportunity to catch up on reading past issues of AUTOWEEK Magazine. The December 3, 2018 issue has an excellent story on Ralph Lauren's incredible collection of the world's finest automobiles.

Lauren, born Ralph Lifschitz (I am not kidding, that is his birth name) did not come from a rich European family but from very humble New York beginnings. Growing up he didn't even own a bicycle, there was no way he could have conceived owning one of the world's finest collections of rare automobiles. As a young man, his first introduction to "exotic" cars was when his brother bought a 1954 MG TD. He also recalls staring in to the front window of Fergus Motors showroom in Manhattan, at the Morgans. According to the article, When Lauren was first getting started he couldn't afford much, but he bought a 1961 Morgan, British racing green with a leather strap across the bonnet. He is quoted "It said something to me...it went with my style." Even though Lauren own's everything from 1938 Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic to a McLaren F1 LM to Ferrari's, Porsche's and Mercedes, British cars hold a special place in his heart. And yes, he does have LBC's in the collection.

Go figure, once again MG's are at the heart of all things automotive.

Jaguars In February

Sun, 03 Feb 2019 19:51:02 GMT

The February monthly meeting was another smashing success as we received an update on the activities of the Houston Jaguar Club. We have dedicated this year to strengthening the bond between the members of the Houston area car clubs that have a love for LBC's. That is Little British Cars for those of you who may be reading this and haven't been initiated into the passion.

The presentation was made by Keith Ryder, a long time member and friend to the HMGCC.

Club members are paying close attention to what Keith has to say!

President Woodward, is this new club regalia?

Driver Awards Standings

Thu, 31 Jan 2019 11:56:36 GMT

Dear Members,

Below is the current standings for the drivers award. Thanks as always to Greg for keeping up with this.

HMGCC January Tech Session

Sun, 27 Jan 2019 15:03:20 GMT

By Dwight Dawson

Our tech session on Saturday, January 19th was only worthwhile if you love and care for your MG and would like to keep it looking marvelous. The event with owner John Gray at Gulf Coast Auto Shield was the most advanced and useful session on auto paint maintenance and preservation that most of us had ever attended. A few members of the Jaguar club joined 10 or so HMGCC members for a detailed and generous sharing of tips, tricks and recommended products in support of the subject.

John Gray, owner Gulf Coast Auto Shield, discussing how to properly detail a car with the members of the Houston MG Car Club

John is very well-informed in this narrow niche of car maintenance and he talked at length about the methods, tools and materials needed to do it right. The clear shine on the 15 or so high-end customers’ autos in his shop, including a newish McLaren, was testament to the quality of his efforts.

The pinnacle of service in this shop is the application of a ceramic finish that protects the paint job like nothing else can. Some products will even self-repair scratches with the heat of the sun. Though the cost of this protection is not insignificant, it must be very satisfying when the best outcome is desired on a precious vehicle.

Many very practical tips were provided, such as:

Use 2 or even 3 water buckets when washing the car.

Use a “grit guard” at the bottom of the bucket to minimize the application of grit from the bucket onto your paint job.

Wash your wheels first and never expose your paint to wheel water or wash rags. Wheel debris does a nasty job on fine paint.

Use the various available microfiber cloths for drying, polishing, etc. Use a detergent especially for microfibers to wash used cloths, though some experts say use a cloth once and THROW IT AWAY.

One surprising tip was to use a 50/50 solution of 91 percent alcohol and water before waxing to clear any previously applied and remaining wax.

Endless practical tips for cleaning interiors, glass and tires were also given. Lots of information was provided on the need for a quality, long-throw, random orbital buffing machine. Trox was one name we saw; Porter-Cable was also cited as a worthy brand among others. We watched and participated in the use of a power machine and cleaning materials on the trunk lid of a late model Bentley. It looked basically clean to start, but the professional efforts rendered results that you could not only SEE but FEEL.

John invited any and all of us to bring our cars to his shop on a Saturday to make use of its interior space in pursuit of a really clean paint job and detailed vehicle (and lots of learning.) His contact information is:

John Gray

Gulf Coast Auto Shield

http://gcautoshield.com

832.264.0670

9442 Summerbell Lane (near Hwy 59 and Bissonnet)

Brian Daly’s 62 MGA MK II

Thu, 24 Jan 2019 02:13:12 GMT

Way to go Brian....

Brian Daly’s 1962 MGA MK II Roadster is featured on the back cover of the

January/February 2019 issue of MGA! Magazine (upper left).

Car Show Etiquette

Wed, 23 Jan 2019 02:30:25 GMT

The following article was posted on Facebook by J. C. Hackett. We have no idea who he is but he did ask that this be shared and it is sage advice on car show etiquette.

While most people who attend car shows are kind and considerate, a small percentage are not. They will do things that annoy or insult car owners, belittle their hard work, or even damage their vehicles. No one wants scratches on the car they spent HOURS polishing to a high gloss. The trouble is, most of us have said or done something that qualifies as being rude without realizing it or meaning to. So give the following a look and make sure your not "That person."

Don’t Touch the Cars!

Seriously – don’t touch the cars.

Just don’t do it!

Don’t lean on it.

Don’t reach out and put your hands on it.

Don’t accidentally brush it with your coat or bag as you walk by.

Don’t back into it while you’re trying to take a photo of another car.

Don't rub against it as your trying to squeeze between two cars.

Just don’t do it.

Don't touch unless your naked. Zippers, snaps, buckles, rivets, watches even fingernails can and will scratch paint.

Seriously – don’t touch the cars.

Mind Your Children

Bringing a kid to a car show is wonderful thing, but your kids are your responsibility. They shouldn’t ever touch cars, throw toys that hit cars, sit in cars, sneeze on cars, stick their heads into cars and drip snot on the seats, etc. Don't let them throw dirt, rocks, toys, etc. Some people don't mind if the kid gets in the car but make sure it is okay before your kid climbs on or in a car, most people don't want fingerprints or candy stuck all over their car.

Don’t Talk Trash

You just spotted a terrible show car. It’s sloppy. It’s ugly. It’s not even clean. You roll your eyes, make snide comments, chuckle, tell your buddy what’s wrong with it, and move on. Here’s the thing, someone in the world loves that car like a member of the family. They don’t see the problems, the dirt, or the fact that it’s downright hideous. They see a beautiful machine worthy of endless attention…and they don’t need your disrespect.

The same goes for the newer cars. It doesn't have to be 40+ years old to be beautiful, fast, expensive, have a lot of work into it. Not everyone can afford a show car and a driver or they love their car so much they prefer to drive it all the time.

Unlike some, they made a big effort to come to the show, paid the entry fees, spent their time to do things to their ride, spent hours cleaning and polishing (or maybe not, you rat rod guys know what I mean) and subjected themselves to the public eye. They don’t deserve to hear trash talk…so if you can’t say anything nice, just don’t say anything. Maybe they are just getting started and wanted to show what they have started with or the mods they have done so far. Not everyone has a $200,000+ show car build by so and so. We all start somewhere.

Watch for the Lenses!

Tough to shoot photos when there is always someone in the way

There are always automotive photographers at cars shows, always someone that wants to get a picture of some nice ride. Some are there for fun and some are earning a living, news paper, magazine, etc. Don’t just ignore the photographers because you want a better look. Be polite and look around often and check that you aren’t messing up someone’s shot. Just as importantly, don’t walk into someone else’s shot. This is more true now with the high quality cameras built into phones so pay attention to your surroundings. I see this a lot and deal with it a lot myself, it's not easy getting a clean shot.

Be considerate of others.

If your showing your car, don't crank your stereo. Some people enjoy the music already playing by the DJ or Announcer. They also want to listen to any information, door prize give away, contests, problems etc. that might come across the loud system. If your blaring you bazillion watt stereo, no one can hear it.

Pick up your trash.

Don't just leave your nasty rags, empty cleaner or detail spray bottles, soda cans, water bottle etc. Someone has to clean up after the event, most times it is the person that had to get there two hours before the show to set things up. They are hot, tired and ready to go home too.

Very important, no matter what you think of the other cars, remember that a lot of hard work, blood, sweat and tears have gone into them. Someone has spent their hard earned money, time away from family or with someone special that might not be around anymore. In the end, we all share a passion about cars, we are all the same at the core.

In the end, a little common sense and courtesy goes a long way to helping everyone enjoy the show. Hope to see you there!

Spring Fling 2019 Coming April 20th

Thu, 17 Jan 2019 03:43:27 GMT

This year’s Spring Fling will be held in conjunction with Katy Market Day, April 20th, with cars in place by 9:00am until 2:00pm

Register Today

2019 Spring Fling

Cleaning Vinyl & Leather

Sat, 12 Jan 2019 05:27:03 GMT

By Bob Chalker

When I made the decision to put a cream colored vinyl top on my MGB, I knew that my nemesis was going to be dirt and that keeping it clean would be an ongoing battle. Up until a couple of weeks ago I had been successfully winning the battle— that is, until I ran into an army of bugs on the way home from the GOF in Waco.

Upon arriving home, the top had several bug splats, most of which were easily removed with a combination of soap and water, vinyl cleaner, and a little elbow grease; except one, which was a brilliant baby poop yellow. It wasn’t very big, but because of its color and location right dead in the middle, it drew your eye right to it.

Beyond the cleaning methods already mentioned, I tried just about everything else, even mineral spirits and a lacquer thinner. I bought some expensive cleaner from Amazon that had a 4-1/2 star rating and rave reviews. Nothing worked. In fact, it was getting worse as my efforts just seemed to spread the stain. I was reaching the point where I thought I was just going to have to accept the fact that the top would be discolored. Then I had the most brilliant of ideas: ask my wife Kim. She’ll know what to do. She is the master cleaner. She cleans everything in our home.

So I trooped into the kitchen, taking off my shoes at the door because she had just cleaned the kitchen floor, and with sadness in my voice shared with Kim my dilemma. She didn’t hesitate. “Did you try coconut oil?” Coconut oil? Who would use coconut oil to clean a car’s vinyl top?

Well, without much expectation of success, I asked Kim if she had any coconut oil, which, of course, she did. As she handed me the jar, she said, “I use it all the time, even to clean the gummy residue on our suitcases from those stickers the airlines use.” Hmm, maybe she was onto something. So I trod back out to the garage with my spoonful of coconut oil and applied it liberally with my finger. As I rubbed it in, the oil began to melt and the bug guts started to come off as I wiped the area with a wet cloth. With that first application it didn’t get fully clean, but the stain lightened enough to give me hope. So I put on a second application and let it sit overnight.

The next morning I was out in the garage very early, with my wet cloth in hand and expectations high. As I wiped it down, the stain was almost completely gone. One more application of the coconut oil and— success! You would never know that a bug gave up his life on my cream colored vinyl top.

Since then I discovered it works well on my leather seats. Plus I found an article online noting that not only does coconut oil clean the leather safely it also is a natural conditioner. Like all new cleaners it is recommended that you try it in a inconspicuous place first.

Coconut oil is my new favorite cleaner. I just hope Kim keeps the pantry in stock.

MG's Get A Taste Of Home At Moe's Irish Pub

Mon, 07 Jan 2019 01:12:58 GMT

By Bob Chalker

2019 is off to a great start with our first monthly meeting of the year. We had almost 40 people turn out at Moe's Irish Pub in Katy. So many people that Moe's staff had to add additional tables and chairs multiple times. The banger's and mash, fish & chips and shepherd's pie were brilliant and the conversation and energy was as high as it has ever been at a club monthly meeting. The warm temperatures and blue sky allowed many of us to drive our cars.

We had several first time guests, including a few members of the Texas Triumph Register. (No, we did not make them park their cars in the back of the parking lot). The highlight of the meeting was a report from Triumph Club Events Chair, John Blum, on their plans for 2019. In addition, President Mike Woodward reviewed our 2019 events calendar. Board Chairman Mike Gentry presented the new format for this year's awards program.

Mike Woodward, 2019-20 Club President asking for quiet so he can give his report

Dwight Dawson had a selection of new club shirts available to purchase or order. Photos of the shirts can be seen in the December 15th post below. If you are interested in ordering a shirt go to the websites store or contact Dwight. They were very popular.

A shirt to match every color of car

A good time was had by all as demonstrated by the great conversation, laughter and tire kicking. So much so that we were honored to have three of the guests join the club bringing our club membership to over 110.

Speaking of club membership, please don't forget to renew your membership. We still have 25 members who have not renewed for 2019.

Houston MG Car Club members friendly as always

So many people that Mike and Kim helped out with the serving

Mike Woodward and John Blum planning joint Triumph and MG Car Club Events

Now to the cars.....

Check out the two MG Wanna-be's in the middle

See, I told you we let them park with our babies

Not sure why the tops were up on a warm blue sky day

Property values are going up

The End!

2019 Driver Award Standings

Sun, 06 Jan 2019 20:54:33 GMT

Dear Fellow MG Enthuisiast,

Please see attached standings as of December 2018. Thanks as always to Greg Fleischer for keeping up with all of these events.

Safety fast,

Mike.

MG Driver Award 2019 (1).pdf

Flashback

Fri, 04 Jan 2019 15:28:22 GMT

Dwight Dawson reports "This is a favorite and rather infamous memory from a Club event. The game was Butt Darts. Note the bowl at Charlie Wiggins feet."

Goodbye 2018, Hello 2019

Tue, 01 Jan 2019 14:26:00 GMT

Happy New Year!

2018 was a great year for the club as we saw an increase in the number of events, both driving and social, a new website and improved communication with the members. As a result we are experiencing growing participation and several new members have joined the club.

2019 is looking even better. The highlight of the year will be in October (17-20th) when the club hosts the Fall Gathering of the Faithful in Katy. In addition, Mike Woodward, Club President & Events Chair, has put together an excellent schedule with both social and driving events every month. The year will have a mix of our traditionally popular events and several new experiences.

What's new you ask? Well let me tell you - We will host several tech sessions, a gimmick rally, two overnight trips, a day drive to a WWII museum, a bowling party, a beach party and a visit to the Art Car Museum.

The traditional includes the annual picnic, Tour of Rice Village, quarterly breakfasts, tech sessions, president's social, the Spring Thing and Houston All British Car Day.

And remember, our club is made up of all volunteers who give of their time to plan these events, so please come out and support them. Our cars were made for driving. If you would like to help with any of the events or have an idea for an event please send an email to HoustonMGCarClub@gmail.com. We will especially need volunteers for the Fall GoF. With your help, we can make it the best ever.

To see all the events go to the 2019 Events page.

REMINDER: If you have not already renewed your membership for 2019 now is the time to do it. Go to your profile page and follow the instructions at the top of the page or mail a check to our Membership Chair Dwight Dawson. His address is in the Directory.

2019 Preliminary Events Calendar

Sun, 23 Dec 2018 14:32:03 GMT

Dear All,

To help plan your new MG year please see below the preliminary event calendar for 2019. Additional information on each event will be posted on the website nearer to the event. Please be sure to mark your calendars for the Fall GOF which this year will be hosted by our club.

Safety fast!

Mike.

Month Date Activity Organiser

January 5 Monthly Meeting Mike Woodward

12 Quarterly breakfast Mike Woodward

19 Ceramic Coating Tech Session Mike Woodward

February 2 Monthly Meeting Mike Woodward

16 President's Social Mike Woodward

23 Tech Session Ray Holzapple

March 2 Monthly Meeting Mike Woodward

9 Gimmick Rally Dave Renner

15,16,17 Nacodoches Trip Mike Woodward

23 WW2 Museum trip Fred Whitla

April 6 Monthly Meeting Mike Woodward

20 Spring Thing Ron Redding

27 Quarterly Breakfast Mike Gentry

May 4 Monthly Meeting Mike Woodward

11 Tech Session Ron Redding

18 Spring GOF Ron Redding

June 1 Monthly Meeting Mike Woodward

15 Picnic Dwight Dawson

22 Off to the Races Mike Woodward

29 Richmond Winery Jim Early

July 6 Monthly Meeting Mike Woodward

13 Quarterly Breakfast Ray Holzapple

20 Bowling Dave Renner

August 3 Monthly meeting Mike Woodward

10 Quarterly breakfast Bob Chalker

17 Beach Party Marylin Procter

24 Art Car Museum Dave Renner

September 7 Monthly meeting Mike Woodward

14 Tour of Rice Village Ray Holtzapple

21 Houston All British Car Day John Bowyer/Mike Gentry

27,28,29 All British Car Day Nick Roccaforte

October 5 Monthly meeting Mike Woodward

17, 18, 19, 20 Fall GOF Bob Chalker/Ron Redding

26 Quarterly Breakfast Dwight Dawson

November 2 Monthly Meeting Mike Woodward

9,10 Galveston Weekend Dave Renner/Bob Chalker

22 Black Friday drive Mike Gentry

December 14 Christmas Party Mike/Stephanie,Candy,Hillary

Merry Christmas

Sun, 23 Dec 2018 03:50:19 GMT

Wishing Everyone a very Merry Christmas!

May it be joyous, peaceful, filled with family and friends

The Perfect Christmas Present for a HMGCC Member

Sun, 16 Dec 2018 05:56:04 GMT

Are you looking for a great Christmas present for you favorite Houston MG Car Club Member. How about a club shirt! We have two styles available in our website store.

Let's Party - Christmas Party

Thu, 13 Dec 2018 01:26:31 GMT

By Bob Chalker

The Club’s 2018 Christmas party was a smashing success. Falcon Point had the room beautifully decorated, a fire in the fireplace, and excellent food. Our President, Susan Cannon had prepared two fun trivia games with very nice prizes. (Ask Ron Redding to show you his new watch!) The only thing that didn’t work out was the weather but, of course, it wouldn’t be a Houston MG Car Club event if it didn’t rain. Two MGs— the Bards’ 1973 MGB and the Chalkers’ 1972 MGB—graced the parking lot in spite of the cold, wet day.

The best part was the great turnout of club members and guests. As we all know, we joined the club because of the cars, but keep attending events because of the people. Each year the Christmas party is a highlight of our motoring season.

A very special thank you to Susan and Keith Cannon for their hard work in planning a wonderful event.

Traditionally, one of the most anticipated moments of the party is the presentation of the annual awards. This year’s winners are:

Ralph Diebert Award - Jim Early

Driver’s Award - Dwight Dawson

Kimber Spirit Award - Mike Woodward

Safety Fast Award - Bob Chalker

Broken Crankshaft Award - Dwight Dawson

Board of Directors’ Award - Bob Chalker

Presidential Recognition Award - Susan Cannon

A few more photos.....

2019 Officers and Board of Directors

Sat, 08 Dec 2018 23:39:48 GMT

The Club is proud to announce the new 2019 officers and board members.

Mike Woodward, President

Greg Fleischer, Vice President

Dwight Dawson, Board of Directors

Ray Holtzapple, Board of Directors

John Bowyer, Board of Directors

Continuing in their roles are:

Mike Gentry, Chairman of the Board

Tim Weeks, Secretary

Fran Carpenter, Treasurer

Dwight Dawson, Membership Chair

Mike Woodward, Events coordinator

Bob Chalker, Webmaster

Stephen Fillmore, Regalia

Dave & Linda Renner, Editor, the ROARS

If you would like to volunteer with the club we can always use the help and would love to have you join us. There are many opportunities - plan an event, submit an article to the ROARS or help with the organization of the car shows. In October, 2019 we will be hosting the Texas Gathering of the Faithful, we will need lot's of help with this.

What The Heck Is The OLD SPECKLED HEN?

Sun, 02 Dec 2018 23:08:12 GMT

By Greg Ulrich

Ever wonder why you frequently see bottles of “Old Speckled Hen” English Ale displayed along with those cute little MG’s at our car events? The ale was originally brewed in Abingdon, England, the same town where MG’s were produced for over 50 years. In fact, the ale was first brewed to commemorate the 50^th anniversary of the MG factory in Abingdon. The strong brew was named after an old canvas sided MG that was used as a factory run around car. Once again, all things MG have various versions. I happen to like this one.

Over the years, the sides of the run around car became “speckled” with various shades of paint used in the factory. Factory workers and locals dubbed the MG “the owld speckled un”. Hence, “Old Speckled Hen” ale was named after an old trusted factory MG called “the owld speckled un”. Moreland’s Brewery now brews Old Speckled Hen and claims that the distinctive flavor of their ale comes from the waters around Abingdon. Moreland’s further claims that their ale is so popular that it now outsells Newcastle Brown Ale, a very popular English ale in the United States.

Want to learn more, click on the beer bottle below....

Jim Early ‘s Car Makes The Cover

Mon, 26 Nov 2018 18:13:15 GMT

Club member Jim Early’s 1962 MGA graced the back cover of the latest issue of MGA Magazine. His is in the top photo. Congratulation’s Jim on your car once again being recognized as a premier example of the MGA.

A Better Black Friday

Sat, 24 Nov 2018 16:37:24 GMT

While most people throughout the U.S. were in malls and shopping centers, standing in lines, wrestling for that last sales item and generally frustrating themselves, a few of us were out and about in our Little British Cars enjoying the day. We had a great turnout with 17 people driving 9 MGs and one modern Mini Cooper. Not sure how the Cooper snuck in, but hey, we are the Marque of Friendship, so we will let anyone join us. Before leaving, we even had a great conversation with the proud owner of a classic Pontiac.

Meeting up at Buc-ee's in Katy

We gathered at the Katy Buc-ee’s, filling ourselves with coffee & kolaches and our cars with pure-gas. Then we headed out onto a series of twisting, meandering country roads.

Kicking the tires before departure

Out of town visitors joining us for the drive

(Can't believe Bob let his son-in-law drive his baby)

Our 58-mile route took us through Brookshire, out past San Felipe de Austin State Park, turning south towards Simonton, into Fulshear and finally into Richmond where we ended the Trip at Bob’s Taco Station. This area is still wonderfully rural with lots of great driving, allowing for mostly unfettered 50 to 60 mile per hour driving on well-maintained roads. There are only a few small towns, requiring minimal stop and go traffic.

The gang's all here

The sights along the way were very much Texas – Longhorn cattle, horses, beautiful ranches and one very large roadkill (a wild boar) that made for an extra chicane in the roadway. Oh yeah, and let’s not forget the house that was being moved and looked like something out of the Wizard of Oz.

Auntie Em, Auntie Em...

A very special shout out to the world famous Bob, of Bob’s Taco Station. He arranged for special parking in the front of his restaurant and reserved seating inside. We had great food, fun and laughter sharing stories and discussing potential future drives.

No better place to end a drive than Bob's Taco Station in Richmond, TX

I am happy to report that the weather held with moderate temperatures, clouds, and only a couple very light sprinkles in the morning. As we came out of Bob’s Taco, the clouds cleared, the sun came out and we had excellent top down driving weather. I am also happy to report that no one qualified for next year’s Broken Crankshaft Award. The cars ran flawlessly.

Drivers and navigators were: Roger & Kaye Sykes, Ron Redding, Dwight & Candy Dawson, Mike & Stephanie Woodward, Jim Early, Bob & Stephen Chalker (Bob’s son), David & Taylor Smit, Kim Chalker & Bob Loomis (Kim’s dad) Dave & Linda Renner and Gordon Bard.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Thu, 22 Nov 2018 15:26:45 GMT

Wishing one and all a very Happy Thanksgiving!

Planes and Automobiles

Sat, 17 Nov 2018 20:38:34 GMT

HMGCC at the Lone Star Flight Museum at Ellington Field Joint Reserve Base

By Bob Crow

More than a dozen of our members arrived for breakfast at the Whiskey Cake Kitchen and Bar, Baybrook Mall on Saturday, November 10th. Several people took advantage of the chilly weather and arrived with tops down, heaters on, in the proper spirit of British motoring. Whiskey Cake offers a different breakfast /brunch sort of menu and folks at one end of the table - names withheld - enjoyed Mimosas while waiting for their eggs Benedict.

As events coordinator, I'd foolishly assumed that breakfast would be over and we'd all be on the road for the short drive to Ellington and the Lone Star Flight Museum by 10am. Instead, perhaps lubricated by decent drink and tasty food, we were still sitting at the table talking and laughing when someone realized it was after 11!

After settling our bills, few instructions were needed for most to find their way to Ellington and the museum. I couldn't resist the offer to ride in Terry Charlton's modified V8 MGB and enjoyed the 'getting up to freeway speed' acceleration and beautiful V8 music.

There was plenty of parking at the museum and in we all went. Lone Star Flight Museum really is one of the nicer aircraft exhibition spaces anywhere. We saw lots of very beautiful and interesting planes and enjoyed informative displays. Many of us saw the restored B-25 bomber that is based at the museum take off while we were there. What a magnificent noise those big old radial engines make when they lift the big bird into the air!

I want to add a special thanks to my friend Ron, a veteran hero helicopter pilot, for coming along and explaining how the heck helicopters can fly. I spent over two hours in the museum and barely saw half of it. Maybe we can come here again.

Fifteen hardy souls attended, five of whom drive MGs. They are: Gordon Bard (1972 MGB), Paul Brown, Terry Charlton (1963 modified MGB), Rick Coblents, Bob and Elke Crow, Dwight and Candy Dawson, Greg Fleischer (1971 MGB), Ray Holtzapple, Marilyn Proctor (1977 MGB), Bob and Kathy Schroder, and Fred and Lisa Whitla (1977 MGB).

From the club: THANK YOU to Bob Crow for coordinating this event. The Houston MG Car Club is an all volunteer organization and is only as good as we the members make it. If anyone is interested in coordinating a future event you can volunteer by sending an email to the Mike Woodward, Events Coordinator,through the club's email HoustonMGCarClub@gmail.com or speaking to him at a future event.

John Rushing

Thu, 15 Nov 2018 12:24:16 GMT

Yesterday we received the following email from Sharon Rushing. Please keep Sharon and her entire family in your thoughts and prayers. As you will note in her message, Sharon would very much appreciate it if a couple of us were able to attend the services, driving your car.

Dear MG Car Club Members,

My father, John Rushing, and I were able to join your club for many events and he truly loved every minute of it. He just officially joined last month. Unfortunately I have to share the sad news that my father passed away last week. I wanted to let everyone know and to make a request for anyone who is willing and able to attend the services this Saturday for my father. He would be so pleased to have MG’s there. He was especially fond of the yellow MG TC owned by John, I believe. There is also a couple that lived near us in NW Houston, but I can’t find the paper where I wrote their number. Honestly it all still feels like a horrible dream.

Feel free to pass along this information to everyone.

Here is the service info:
John Bryan Rushing Jr., of Jersey Village, TX, b. Jan 29, 1932 Hemphill, TX, passed away at 86 on Nov 7, 2018 in Houston. All are welcome to attend the service, on Saturday, November 17 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at McWilliams Funeral Home, 706 Bremond St, Hempstead, (979) 826-2421.

Thank you for accepting him into your group. It was truly one of the highlights.

Russ Seto Scholarship Donation

Sun, 11 Nov 2018 16:54:45 GMT

The Houston MG Car Club was proud to make a donation to the Russ Seto Scholarship Fund from the proceeds of this year’s Houston All British Car Day. The Russ Seto Scholarship was established by the Texas Triumph Register to provide financial support to people who are pursuing an education in automotive technology. To learn more about the scholarship click HERE.

Mike Gentry, Chairman of the Houston MG Car Club, presenting a check to Fred Wagner of the Texas Triumph Register for the Russ Seto Memorial Fund.

Wire Wheels & Classic Cars

Sat, 10 Nov 2018 14:12:49 GMT

Wire wheels provide great performance and a great look for our British classics, but they don't come without their own set of challenges. The attached article from Classic Motorsports Magazine provides excellent "what to do" and "how to do it" advice for those of you who cherish wire wheels (and for those of us who are in a love - hate relationship with them.)

https://classicmotorsports.com/articles/wire-wheels-classic-cars/

Flat Bernard Gets Out and About

Tue, 06 Nov 2018 21:33:30 GMT

Did you know that Flat Bernard loves to travel, especially if he can check out great cars. I also hear he doesn't mind traveling on airplanes, visiting sites with great views and despite his slim build, he loves a good dinner on occasion. His problem is, that he doesn't have any transportation of his own and relies on Houston MG Car Club members to take him along with us when we travel. Bringing Flat Bernard on your trips is a great way to share your adventures with the club. If you will simply take a few photos of Flat Bernard in interesting places, and provide a brief story, we will post your adventures here in the ROARS. If you would like to take Flat Bernard along with you contact Dwight Dawson, our membership chair, and he will send Bernard over to your house with his bags packed.

Photos by Dale Schiller

Most recently Flat Bernard was at the Houston All British Car Days. He seems to have taken a fancy to the MGA's.

29th Annual Houston All British Car Day

Fri, 02 Nov 2018 17:12:58 GMT

By Dave Renner

The 29^th Houston All British Car Day, sponsored by the Houston MG Car Club, was held October 20, 2018 in Katy, Texas. The undaunted participants gathered under cool grey skies but no rain fell at the show to dampen spirits. Fifty classic British cars representing thirteen marques were on display for the approving crowds at Katy Market Day to enjoy.

The entries read like a Who’s Who of British auto legends. The more familiar badges of MG and Triumph, Aston Martin and Austin Healey, Jaguar and Range Rover, Morris Minor, Morris Mini and Mini Cooper shared the tarmac with less often seen TVR, Berkeley, Sunbeam and Shelby Cobra. They were dazzling, charming, beautiful and unique-- history lessons on wheels, with the expected oil drips, leather upholstery smells and engine roars to add ambiance to the experience.

The Best of Show award went to Arnel Brown for his lovely 1953 MGTD, which sports a very rare and stylish, period correct hard top. It was a standout in a sterling crowd. The cars owned by Albert Amato (1966 Austin Healey Sprite Mk III), Peter Ferrer (2010 Jaguar XKR) and Nancy Money (1976 TR6) were placed into the Premier Class.

Arnel Brown’s 1953 MGTD also won first in the MGTD category, with Ron Redding taking second with his 1952 MGTD. Barry Jones took first place in the MGTC class with his 1947 MGTC. In the MGTF category, Alex Chaykoski (1954 MGTF) was awarded first place and Glenn and Fran Carpenter (1954 MGTF) garnered second place. Jim Early (1962 MGA MK ll) and Mike Gentry (1960 MGA 1600) shared first place in the MGA class while Roald Lokken (MGA 1600) and Don Lantz (MGA 1600) shared third place.

In the MGB Chrome Bumper class, Terry Myers (1971 MGB) took first place, Dale Schiller (1972 MGB) took second place and Dwight Dawson (1973 MGB) took third place. In the MGB GT class, Nick Roccaforte (1973 MGB GT) took first place, with Roger Sykes (1974 MGB GT) awarded second place. In the MGB Rubber Bumper category Ray Matocha (1979 MGB) took first place, Robert Gilbert (1975 MGB) took second, and Kim Michael Wittenberg (1977 MGB) took third place. Susan and Keith Cannon (1971 MG Midget) took first place in the MG Midget class.

Clark McKinley was awarded first place in the Triumph TR2 & 3 class with his 1959 TR3A. David Smith (1967 TR4A) took first place and Mike Hado (1965 TR4A) took second in the Triumph TR4 & 250 class. In the Triumph TR6 category, Gary Myers (1976 TR6) won first place, Timothy Maxwell (1974 TR6) placed second and Mike Rouse (1971 TR6) was awarded third place.

Greg Chronowski took first place in the Austin Healey 100 class with his 1954 AH 100 roadster. Marc Dickson took first in the Austin Healey 3000 category with his 1967 AH 3000 BJ8. Jorn Schrenus took first place in the Land Rover class with his 1983 Range Rover Vogue. Michael Thingstad took first place in the British Luxury class with his 2008 Aston Martin Vantage.

Keith Ryder (2018 Jaguar F-Type) was awarded first place in the Jaguar 1969 and newer class. John Ramsey (2003 Jaguar XK8) placed second and Matt Cox (2014 XJ-R) took third in that class. Michael Carter took first place in British Modified class with his 1958 Berkeley SE492. The 1967 Sunbeam Alpine owned by Shannon Hodell was awarded first place in the Sunbeam category.

Hal McGinnis (2006 Mini Cooper S JCW) took first in the New Mini class and James and Tebbi Mayes (1966 Morris Mini Traveller) took first place in the Mini category. Michael and Stephanie Woodward (1961 Morris Minor 1000) took first place in the British Special Interest class. Peter Ferrer (1965 Shelby Cobra) took second place with Steve Russell (1974 TVR 2500M) taking third place in the British Special Interest class.

Proceeds from the show support the Russ Seto Memorial Scholarship, which is given to support the education of future automotive technicians.

2018 HABCD Award Winner Photos

Views of the Show

Second Chances

Sat, 27 Oct 2018 02:44:45 GMT

By Dave Renner

I was reading an article today about driving seldom used classic cars with out-of-date tires. The writer was bemoaning the expense of fitting new tires when the ones on the car still looked good. It reminded me of a frightening experience I had some years ago that made me a believer in up-to-date rolling stock.

One summer, I drove a church van loaded with summer camp kids on the way home from a fun week. The van had "good looking" tires, according to the person charged with maintaining it. When a tire blew at highway speed I was just lucky to bring it to a safe halt with no injuries to the 14 people on board. Another old tire shredded a few miles down the road as we limped home at considerably reduced speed. Again no injuries occurred, but I have been a zealot about tires ever since.

It is one thing to endanger yourself, but quite another to endanger others. We replaced decent looking tires on our MGA when we purchased it last year because the codes said the ones on the front were from 1987 and the ones on the back from 1982. Not taking any chances, thank you. Sometimes you don’t get a second chance to be safe.

Dave & Linda Renner’s MGA with new tires

Flat Bernard Visits Waco GoF

Thu, 18 Oct 2018 17:19:48 GMT

As reported in yesterday's article on the GoF, Flat Bernard had a very busy visit to Waco. He really loved seeing all the cars.

2018 Texas GoF In Review

Wed, 17 Oct 2018 17:33:39 GMT

By Dwight Dawson

The Houston MG Car Club was represented at this year’s statewide gathering of MGs by Glenn and Fran Carpenter, Bob and Kim Chalker, Alex Chaykoski, Dwight and Candy Dawson, Rob and Shelly Ficalora, Bob and Kathy Schroeder, Ron Redding, Mike and Stephanie Woodward, John and Nancy Youens, and Jane and Cole LeMaster.

About the GOF

(Pronounced Gee Oh Eff)

Twice yearly since 1964 the members of the New England MG T Register have gathered to enjoy the magic of the MG marque and the people who own them. The first GOFs were billed as a "low key weekend to enjoy the cars and new friends." And it is much the same now. The GOF provides owners of MG T series and other early MG variants a chance to gather for a weekend of tours, talk and tire kicking.

Our Texas GOF has been coordinated by the Dallas club, Texas MG Register, for many years. To join them for the 2018 event, 3 Houston MGBs met at Hwy 290 and FM 1488 and caravanned 190 miles along the country roads to Waco. Drivers were Woodward, Dawson and Chalker. Greg Fleischer even made the trip out to 1488 in his B to see us off. Others from Houston arrived in Waco with their MGs safely secured in trailers.

Upon our Friday morning arrival, there were various venues for beer, wine, burgers, and more. Dinner was organized for the Houston group at Outback Steak House. I was impressed with them for the food and because you could actually HEAR conversations at the table. Some good restaurant design at work that ensured a fun evening with good friends.

Saturday morning provided light rain for the Show Parade on the hilly, twisty, tree-lined MG-style roads just out of town to Bosque River Park. For the first time, the show itself was held in a parking garage—different, but it worked out great and included a sumptuous box lunch. After the show there was an optional event to Balcones, a whiskey distillery in Waco. Ask Bob Chalker for details about it! He and Kim also toured the Dr. Pepper plant. Back at the hotel, with the rain picking up, several of us enjoyed adult beverages and snacks in the lobby.

The Saturday banquet was at the Baylor Club in McLane Stadium. We enjoyed a great Baylor buffet dinner. The evening continued with awards and intermittent offerings of auction items. A very rare 1937 MG VA Salon owned by Wayne Kube from Plano, Texas won the award for Show Favorite. I had a short ride in it and can report it was a luxury ride in its day. The unique interior features, like the fold out windshield, are impressive.

It seemed that Honorary Member Flat Bernard had a high-time and was always where the action was.

The following HMGCC cars were AWARD WINNERS:

Ulrichs’ 1953 MG TD Octagon of Honor.

Chaykoski’s 1954 MG TF 1st place Premier Class;

Redding’s 1975 MGB 4th place Premier Class;

Ficaloras’ 1976 MGB V8 1st place VARIANT MG;

Chalkers’ 1972 MGB 2nd place Chrome Bumper

Woodward’s 1980 MGB 2nd place Rubber Bumper

Rob and Kathy Schroeder took 2nd place in the rally.

The drivers from Houston accumulated about 430 miles traveling to and from the 2018 GOF.

Houston MG Car Club members breaking bread together on Friday night

Ficaloras' MGB V8 took 1st place in the Variant class

Rain, rain go away....

A highlight of the show was this 1937 VA Salon.

Glenn Carpenter spiffing up his 1954 MG TF

Bob & Kim Chalker with their 2nd place trophy in the Chrome Bumper class

Alex Chaykoski accepting his 1st place in the Premier class for his 1954 MG TF

It Depends...

Fri, 12 Oct 2018 11:39:24 GMT

MG DRiver's Awards 2018

Mon, 08 Oct 2018 11:17:38 GMT

As always many thanks to Greg Fleischer for keeping up with all the events. Do not forget you still have many more qualifying events to go.

Texas All British Car Days Report

Thu, 04 Oct 2018 17:44:22 GMT

Attached is a great report from Dwight Dawson on the Texas All British Car Days, where club members took home a few trophies.

TABCD 2018[22085].pdf

In The Movies...MG's

Tue, 02 Oct 2018 04:00:40 GMT

by Greg Ulrich

Do you get all excited and weak-kneed every time you see an MG in a movie? I do. Ever since I saw Love Story with Ryan O’Neal and Ali MacGraw and that little black MGTC, I have been on the lookout for MGs in the movies. A couple weeks ago I was watching the made-for-TV movie, Curacao with George C Scott. Nine minutes into the movie, the main character is hand cranking a rather natty looking MGTC and driving around the island of Curacao. I added the film title to my list of MGs in the movies and told a couple of friends who happen to own TCs. While one friend was trying to locate the movie, he came up with an amazing website. In fifteen years of searching, I probably had a couple dozen titles of movies with MGs in the film. Suddenly, I was looking at a website with 720 movies with over 60 different MG models in those movies.

Wait, it gets even better. You click on the model of MG you are interested in, say “TD,” and photos of MGTDs from 39 different movies pop up as thumbnails with a photo of the TD taken from a scene in each film. A link also pops up showing thumbnails of all other vehicles shown in the film. Even tractors and heavy machinery are shown and identified in every film listed. You next click on the thumbnail and up pops a full page photo with comments about the car and the film. The comments also frequently have additional photos of the MG from other scenes in the film.

There’s more. Every thumbnail has a one to five star rating for the role the MG played in the film. A single star would be a background vehicle such as an MG in a parking lot, down the block from the main scene. Three stars might mean the vehicle was used in a chase scene. Five stars would mean the vehicle was used throughout the film. Someday we will probably be able to click on the thumbnail and actually watch the movie but not yet.

Be warned. This site can be addictive. You can spend hours looking at the 720 thumbnails of MGs. You also can look up any of the 2000 other models of cars, trucks, and heavy equipment that appeared in thousands of films.

Oh! In my excitement I almost forgot to tell you the name of the website. It is the Internet Movie Cars Database at: www.imcdb.org/vehicles_make-MG.html .

And remember, it’s always

Safety Fast!

Greg Ulrich

Danny Savitzky

Fri, 28 Sep 2018 18:56:59 GMT

We have recently learned, from Helen Savitsky, that former Houston MG Car Club member and long time MG aficionado Danny Savitzky passed away after a hard fought battle with cancer.

Danny's MGA which is now owned by Parker Floyd, a very patinaed survivor that many club members found fascinating because of its originality.

The T Series

Mon, 24 Sep 2018 21:34:21 GMT

“After launching the postwar sports car boom here in the States, all these decades later the T-series remains a staple at nearly any British car event. What is it about this simple machine that continues to captivate the soul of sports car aficionados the world over?"

he attached article from Classic Motorsports Magazine answers that question.

https://classicmotorsports.com/articles/t-time-comparing-mg-t-series-lineup/

Thank You Dave Renner

Sun, 16 Sep 2018 08:04:14 GMT

Dave Renner has graciously made some of his cartoons available for us to publish in the ROARS, the first of which is below. A BIG THANK YOU to Dave, your work is excellent.

Parts Falling Off....

Sun, 16 Sep 2018 07:54:53 GMT

Tuning SU Carburetors for an MGA

Sun, 16 Sep 2018 07:23:48 GMT

By Don Lantz

Start by removing both air filters, and (brass or black plastic) dash pot covers. Check to make sure that enough oil is in the piston dampers on both carbs (no higher than the top of the smaller part of the inside bore of the inner moving piston. Also, feel the bottom of the carburetors to check if it is damp indicating a bit of fuel leakage.

From inside the car, pull out the choke full open and release it. The choke on both carburetors should be closed. Check by reaching under each carb and pressing up to check if the jets have returned to the full up rest position. In the process, if you noticed a jet is not up to the rest position, then check that the jet tension spring is attached to the jet lever and carburetor body.

SETTING THE FUEL MIXTURE

1) Start the engine and run it up to normal running temperature. Loosen one of the screws on an accordion (zig-zag looking) clamp on the throttle shaft between the carbs so that the carbs can be adjusted one at a time.

2) With the engine running, turn the idle screw on one of the carbs back (counter clockwise) until its lever is resting on the top of the throttle stop and the throttle disc is completely closed. This will isolate that carb so the other carb can be adjusted and tuned. The engine will not stop running as there is a balance tube on the intake manifold connecting the two carbs so that all the cylinders will continue run on the fuel air mix from the one carb.

3) Now, set the idle just below 1,000 RPMs using the idle screw of the operating carb.

4) Keep the idle adjusted to stay below 1,000 RPMs during the tuning process.

5) Turn the jet adjusting (mixture nut) clock wise when looking down from above (this lowers the jet in the bridge area of the carburetor) which allows more fuel to be exposed to the incoming air, causing the fuel air ratio to be richer.

6) Continue turning the jet nut downward until the car engine makes a galloping like sound at idle.

7) Then turn the jet nut back slowly towards lean until the engine begins to shake and may have a slight misfire indicating the fuel air mixture is too lean.

8) Next, turn the jet adjusting nut back towards the rich directions until the engine shake just goes away.

9) Then turn the jet adjusting nut two more flats towards rich. As the engine smooths out, the idle speed will increase slightly.

10) Reduce the idle speed back down to under 1,000 RPMs.

11) That carburetor’s mixture adjustment is now complete.

12) Close the throttle on that carb and open the second carb’s throttle.

13) Repeat steps number 5 through 11 on the second carb.

SYNCHRONIZING THE CARBURETORS

1) After completing the second carb’s mixture adjustment, the carbs need to be synchronized. This can be done with or without special equipment.

2) We will synchronize without any special equipment.

3) Carefully determine when the throttle arm and its adjustment screw contact the throttle stop at the same time. Do this by slowly backing the idle screw out while placing a finger on the idle arm. When the idle arm stops moving, turn the idle screw back and forth several times to be certain of when the idle arm is just resting on the idle stop. Now turn idle screw ½ turn clockwise to open the throttle for slow idle on that carb.

4) Do the exact same procedure for the other carb.

5) Tighten the previously loosened screw on the accordion clamp to lock together the two synchronized carbs.

6) Adjust the engine idle to just below 1,000 RPMs by turning both idle screws the same amount in the same direction.

7) Any time the idle needs adjusting, adjust both carb’s idle screw the same amount of turn, and in the same direction.

8) You can check for proper adjustment by reaching under the rim on the right side of each carb pressing upward on the piston lifting pin. This pin raises the air piston about 1/32”. If the engine stumbles, the mixture is too lean; if the engine speeds up and runs faster, the mixture is too rich; if the engine speeds up a small amount and then slows back to the original speed, the mixture is well adjusted. Note that the difference between being too rich and too lean is about one flat turn of the jet adjusting nut.

CHOKE LINKAGE ADJUSTMENT

Next is the adjustment of the linkage connection between the two carbs. This can be very important especially in cold climate areas as they allow for more fuel to enter the carbs for richer start up and running till the engine reaches normal operating temperature.

1) Remove the slack out of the choke linkage at the interconnector link by loosening the top and bottom nuts.

2) Tighten the lower nut on the interconnector so that there is a slight bit of pressure on the lever. Do not over compensate as it preloads the choke causing a richer mixture.

3) Tighten down the top nut to lock the adjustment.

4) Hook up the choke cable by giving it a slight twist and a little slack before locking it down.

5) Connect the choke cam link to the #2 hole on the cam for our climate area and secure it.

The ROARS is Back

Sun, 16 Sep 2018 07:12:52 GMT

The "News" page on the clubs website has been re-named the Roars. Like the printed version of The ROARS in the past, this page will be the place to come for all the clubs latest news. We will be placing special announcements, stories from our most recent events, entertaining tidbits and lots of information here, so check back often. Or better yet, subscribe by clicking on the RSS logo (the icon that is 3 concentric quarter circles) on the first page. This way you will receive notification every time something new is added.

NAMGBR & NAMGAR

Thu, 30 Aug 2018 20:27:53 GMT

Greetings all,

And if you are a member of one of the Registers but not a member of Houston MG Car Club, we would love to have you become a member. Simply click on “Join Us” above.

Thank you in advance for your timely response to this request.

Houston MG Car Club Board of Directors

Meetup Closing Down

Fri, 17 Aug 2018 13:35:24 GMT

Dear MG Enthusiast,

Please be advised that with the functionality of our new website we will soon be closing down our Meetup site. If you have any photo's etc. on the MG Meetup site that you wish to keep, now would be an optimal time to save them to an alternate repository.

Safety fast!

Mike.

We Are Live

Tue, 07 Aug 2018 03:38:43 GMT

The new Houston MG Car Club went live today, Monday, August 6, 2018. As was shared at this past Saturday's club meeting the new website brings us tremendous improvements including:

Event announcements and easy online registration
A forum for club members, and all those who are interested in our LBC's, to discuss our cars, events and ideas
The ability for us to publish club news
A Members Only section where you can easily access the club directory and other club information
Dynamic photo and video albums
The ability for members to keep there personal profile up to date with the latest information, including photos of your MG's
The ability for members to post MG items, including your cars and parts, for sale
In the very near future we will be adding the ability to make online payments and hosting an online store for ragalia.

Also, as a head's up some of you, well actually a lot of you, may have received to copies of the launch email. Sorry for the inconvenience. Let's attribute it to a rookie webmaster who was a bit over zealous. The two emails are exactly the same.

This site is new and we know we don't have it perfect out of the box, if you would like to make suggestions for improvement, please send an email to HoustonMGCarClub@Gmail.com.

If anyone wants to see something on the old website, it is still available http://houstonmgcc.wordpress.com

The Board gives a great big thank you to Mike Woodward and Dwight Dawson for their hard work and dedication to making this new site a reality.

Safety Fast!

BBQ, Cars and Good Friends

Sat, 28 Jul 2018 21:42:57 GMT

We had a great turnout for today's event at Corkscrew BBQ in Spring, TX. We also had the pleasure to meet new club member, Bob Gilbert and his beautiful green 1977 MGB. Many of us arrived early, knowing the reputation of Corkscrew BBQ and how early and long the lines cue up. And they did not disappoint. The brisket was awesome. I also understand a few of our members took advantage of the local shopping in historic downtown Spring. If you haven't been to a recent Houston MG Car Club event recently, we would love to see you join us at our next event. Check out the Events page of the website to learn what is coming up.

Future MGers

Tue, 03 Jul 2018 15:26:42 GMT

Mike Woodward and Dwight Dawson delighted 15 or so youngsters appearing at the St. Marks Childrens' Development Center in the Heights. Lots of questions from kids and teachers. Everyone had to sit in the LBCs and they wanted the TOP DOWN on the B despite the 95 degrees of the day.

Our New Website

Sun, 01 Jul 2018 17:05:54 GMT

Welcome to the Houston MG Car Clubs new website. We are proud to announce that we now have a modern website which allows for our members and guests to have everything they need to know or do in one place. Event announcements, membership, regalia and news. Even a forum for staying in touch, sharing ideas and expertise. You will be able to register and pay for events online. The best part is that the member contact list will always be up to date and easy to use. Check it out. If you have questions on how to use it, send a note to Bob Chalker.