Does it matter to you if UC is a part of TLCA?

[GXO]

hmmm, fair enough. If you put it on an individual vs. club level, I don't think TLCA has much to offer us except liability insurance.

 

[CC Shuett]

I believe in what TLCA does for the cruiser community and I enjoy TT so I would agree that it is important to support TLCA on an individual level, but that is not the point of this discussion. As a club, I don't know enough about how TLCA operates or what they require to provide any input as to whether or not it is a benfit to UC. can anyone list the pros/cons or costs/benefits?

TOYOTA Land Cruiser Association. TOYOTA is the operative word in the name of this national/international organization. Surely it's worth annual dues of $30 to be a member of this group which sanctions regional/national events and promotes TOYOTAS ??!?!?!?!?!?

Many tools exist on their web site - www.tlca.org
In short, here is what you get for your $30 bucks. Do we think we can rival this type of exposure?

Membership FAQs

What benefits come with TLCA membership?
Perhaps the biggest benefit is the subscription to Toyota Trails, TLCA's bi-monthly newsletter publication. It has been called the ultimate resource for Land Cruiser parts and aftermarket products. Every major Land Cruiser supplier, and most smaller suppliers, in the U.S.A. and Canada advertise in Toyota Trails.
The Trails also has articles and features on every aspect of technical maintainance and modification (eventually), trail rides, trail tips, funny stories, first aid, and more. In addition, there is a Tech Exchange section, where you can get answers to your questions (or comment on other members questions), and a 'For Sale' section - free to members - through which many new and used parts are bought and sold. And, the Trails is loaded with pictures and drawings of our favorite vehicles.
As a TLCA member, you'll be able to receive "Member Only" discounts from many of our Associate (Business) Members. Not all Associate Members give discounts, but enough do that the cost of your TLCA membership could easily be returned in discounts alone. Our Associate Members also advertise exclusive product sales that only our members see.
Can I see a copy of Toyota Trails for myself?
Yes... a sample issue of the Toyota Trails is included in our free information packet.
Does TLCA have off road events?
You bet! Check out our Calendar of Events for specific events and details. You may also want to contact Member Clubs in your area, which will have their own club runs.
What will I receive when I become a member?
Within 4-6 weeks, you should receive a confirmation letter, membership card with your personal TLCA Member Number (necessary to receive discounts), two 3" TLCA decals and one TLCA dash plaque to proudly display that you're a Toyota Land Cruiser Association member. There is usually other 'stuff' included, but exactly what changes continually.
How long does my membership last?
TLCA membership is annual. To continue to receive TLCA benefits, such as the Toyota Trails, without interruption, you must to renew prior to your expiration date. You can find your membership expiration date on your address label of your Toyota Trails and on the ID card provided to you when you joined.

 

[cruiser4life]

TOYOTA Land Cruiser Association. TOYOTA is the operative word in the name of this national/international organization. Surely it's worth annual dues of $30 to be a member of this group which sanctions regional/national events and promotes TOYOTAS ??!?!?!?!?!?

Many tools exist on their web site - www.tlca.org
In short, here is what you get for your $30 bucks. Do we think we can rival this type of exposure?

Membership FAQs

What benefits come with TLCA membership?
Perhaps the biggest benefit is the subscription to Toyota Trails, TLCA's bi-monthly newsletter publication. It has been called the ultimate resource for Land Cruiser parts and aftermarket products. Every major Land Cruiser supplier, and most smaller suppliers, in the U.S.A. and Canada advertise in Toyota Trails.
The Trails also has articles and features on every aspect of technical maintainance and modification (eventually), trail rides, trail tips, funny stories, first aid, and more. In addition, there is a Tech Exchange section, where you can get answers to your questions (or comment on other members questions), and a 'For Sale' section - free to members - through which many new and used parts are bought and sold. And, the Trails is loaded with pictures and drawings of our favorite vehicles.
As a TLCA member, you'll be able to receive "Member Only" discounts from many of our Associate (Business) Members. Not all Associate Members give discounts, but enough do that the cost of your TLCA membership could easily be returned in discounts alone. Our Associate Members also advertise exclusive product sales that only our members see.
Can I see a copy of Toyota Trails for myself?
Yes... a sample issue of the Toyota Trails is included in our free information packet.
Does TLCA have off road events?
You bet! Check out our Calendar of Events for specific events and details. You may also want to contact Member Clubs in your area, which will have their own club runs.
What will I receive when I become a member?
Within 4-6 weeks, you should receive a confirmation letter, membership card with your personal TLCA Member Number (necessary to receive discounts), two 3" TLCA decals and one TLCA dash plaque to proudly display that you're a Toyota Land Cruiser Association member. There is usually other 'stuff' included, but exactly what changes continually.
How long does my membership last?
TLCA membership is annual. To continue to receive TLCA benefits, such as the Toyota Trails, without interruption, you must to renew prior to your expiration date. You can find your membership expiration date on your address label of your Toyota Trails and on the ID card provided to you when you joined.

Individual membership appears to have value for most, club membership is the issue in question...

Insurance is the only item brought forward as an added value from TLCA and I would think that can be procured independently elsewhere on the free market with similar benefits and options.

 

[Sputnik40]

Marshall - Thanks. To clarify one of my points, it is to TLCA's advantage to retain UC as a member club. UC is a huge success due to the fact that so many great Cruiserheads seem to be within your area - period - I've never met a nicer group of folk period, but maybe I'm biased as I look forward to my 3 days in Pumpkintown every year almost as much as GSMTR. It's a great club with or without TLCA - and I bet it always will be. With that being said - I guess the gist of my point is that TLCA should be doing more to obtain UC's feedback than the other way around - UC is a huge eastern asset. Period.

Lawyers - that kills me, from what I know of the one lawyer I'd never want to tangle with UC .

Several comments on having to be a TLCA member to attend an event - this is correct for sanctioned/ensured events - FLCA always tried to enforce that as well, we were prolly about 80% successful or better. Note - I recently chose not to participate in GSMTR due to some issues that several fellow Florida and UC members had to endure - but mostly due to fact I simply need to be closer to the trail head and cannot camp over in Hanging Dog Valley - the drive wreaks havoc on my hearing problem (yeah, laugh all you want . I understand STLCA is looking into more options to encourage those who want to camp on the river to be a part of the event - if that follows thru, then yes I will maintain my TLCA membership solely so I can faithfully register proper for GSMTR. If not, well..... we'll see.

Great discussion - one that I think TLCA board members should put on their next agenda - note - I'd hope they lurk or have nothing but positive feedback (read tactful) should they chose to do more .

 

[Sputnik40]

Note - looking back thru this thread, of those who have their TLCA # proudly posted - I have the oldest - now ya'all are starting to make me feel old....

If you don't have yours posted under your avatar and you're pro TLCA - get it fixed

TLCA #6187
FLCA #8
STLCA - no longer a dues paying member
UC - does the fact I keep giving David my dues mean I havn't gotten a number hmmmmmmmmm

 

[Trollhole]

Note - looking back thru this thread, of those who have their TLCA # proudly posted - I have the oldest - now ya'all are starting to make me feel old....

If you don't have yours posted under your avatar and you're pro TLCA - get it fixed

TLCA #6187
FLCA #8
STLCA - no longer a dues paying member
UC - does the fact I keep giving David my dues mean I havn't gotten a number hmmmmmmmmm

You old bastard.

 

[Capt. Jim]

Note - looking back thru this thread, of those who have their TLCA # proudly posted - I have the oldest - now ya'all are starting to make me feel old....

DAMN YOU, SPUTNIK!!

 

[Capt. Jim]

Guess I need to chime in here. 10 years ago, when I joined TLCA, it was a great network to meet other people like us. Many of my best friends have been made through my off-roading. The three clubs that I belong to have prospered as a result of TLCA as well as the internet (The old LCML and IH8MUD).

I am unaware of any participation of TLCA in the land issue we have faced here in Florida over the years.

TOYOTA TRAILS is a good mag, although I think it has succombed to the FJ Cruiser. Years ago, TOYOTA did little to nothing as far as supporting TT or TLCA. Sure, some of the local dealerships did but TOYOTA USA had little to do with us. Now that they have access to the next generation of off-roaders via TLCA/TT, they have overwhelmed us and TT with their FJC ads.

STLCA is just another TLCA chapter same as UC, FLCA, GA. CRUISERS, or any other chapter out there. I don't know if aligning ourselves or merging with another chapter will be beneficial. I am opposed to merging with any other chapter.

I believe we have an extremely active and successful club for several reasons:

Our leadership, past and present, has always picked up the ball and ran with it.

Our membership, good people, always willing to help, share, wheel, work, contribute.

Location and proximity, the upstate has some fine wheeling in our own back yard and other places that are not so far away. Try living here in South Florida, no wheeling for at least a 4 hour drive.

And lastly, with the exception of a couple of renegades from Florida, Georgia and NC, everyone is living in the same area, which allows for more frequent events and get-togethers.

I am proud to be a TLCA member and have been so since 1997. I will still continue my membership with them. However, this thread of Marshall's begs the question, what has TLCA done for us lately?

 

[CandyPants]

TOYOTA TRAILS is a good mag, although I think it has succombed to the FJ Cruiser. Years ago, TOYOTA did little to nothing as far as supporting TT or TLCA. Sure, some of the local dealerships did but TOYOTA USA had little to do with us. Now that they have access to the next generation of off-roaders via TLCA/TT, they have overwhelmed us and TT with their FJC ads.

Hey now...ain't nothin' wrong with a little TLCA FJC love.

 

[Capt. Jim]

Hey now...ain't nothin' wrong with a little TLCA FJC love.

Never said there was anything wrong with it. My point is TOYOTA USA never did much with TT/TLCA until they came out with the FJC. Now we are saturated, at least for us old school guys. Peace.

 

[CandyPants]

Never said there was anything wrong with it. My point is TOYOTA USA never did much with TT/TLCA until they came out with the FJC. Now we are saturated, at least for us old school guys. Peace.

I know Jim, I understand. No worries...just gotta give you old school guys just a little crap here and there.

 

[Trollhole]

You know he wants an FJC. He's been collection those thick carboard ads they put in TT in hopes of building a garage to shelter it one day.

 

[Capt. Jim]

No worries, Heather. I actually remember when all the negative stuff was directed at the FJ60's. Then later, at the FJ/FZJ80's. New kid on the block always has to prove himself. I showed up at the first FLCA meeting in a new FZJ80 as I was still re-building my 40. Lots of nay-sayers that day amonst the 40 owners until we hit the trails.

I would indeed like an FJC. I have not yet saved up enough of those FJC inserts, yet.

 

[Sputnik40]

You know he wants an FJC. He's been collection those thick carboard ads they put in TT in hopes of building a garage to shelter it one day.

Hahahahahahhhahahhaha!

Yes Jim - that was bait to get you to post .... - now lets see, can't imagine what Barry's number might have been.

 

[informationjunky]

Hahahahahahhhahahhaha!

Yes Jim - that was bait to get you to post .... - now lets see, can't imagine what Barry's number might have been.

I'm glad I'm a newb like you and not a old fart with a 5xxx number.

 

[GXO]

I am almost twice as young as you in that case John....

oh, and my TLCA number is higher too. hehehe

 

[Chef]

Really?
I'd sure appreciate an explanation of that?

Does it matter if UC is part of TLCA?

Short answer: yes, but in negative way.

IH8MUD renders TLCA insignificant, intrusive, and obstructionist.

MUD has done what TLCA should have, but wouldn't.

So, why bother? TLCA is last month's milk!

 

[GXO]

Alert! Alert! We are on radar!!!

 

[Chef]

Howdy y'all;
Interesting conversation here, and a lot of what I would bring to it has already been covered.
The TLCA bylaws clearly spell out what it takes to be a chapter:
http://www.tlca.org/clubs/chapter_startup.shtml#So_you_want_to_start_a_Chapter
There aren't TLCA police that are gonna come make sure every dang one of you is a member. It's your club, run it as you choose.

TLCa is a car club, made of individual members. Volunteers. It is what ever any one of you bring to it. In other words, if you think TLCA is not doing enough of any one thing to suit you, then become part of the answer. Yes, Greg Mumm, TLCa member is the Pres of the Blue Ribbon Coalition...but he's only one guy, in one part of the country. Any land use issue is best addressed by local people implementing local solutions. (Obviously) as just some guy from Columbia Missouri,. there's not a lot I can do over in Tellico Tn. But, you can meet with Park Service, Forest Service and other people on your area, chat, volunteer, clean up, be seen acting responably, raise money for them. A hundred things.
Toyota Trails is filled with strictly member submissions. You don't like what's in there? By all menas, write something and submit it! I don't think we all of a suddne FJC biased, but it is really cool that Toyota corporate cares enough to be involved with us. That's something several boards of directors preceding me helped initiate.

The bottom line is that TLCa is much like your local club; a bunch of friends with a common interest, that add up to whatever it's membership puts into it.

I'm glad to answer any specific q's you have; and thanks for listening.

alan

 

[Chef]

That's right, Big Brother's watching
Really, I don't spend any time here or at Pirate anymore, I'm just too dang busy.
But I'm always reachable with any direct questions or input you'd like to contribute.


alan

Alert! Alert! We are on radar!!!