December 2015 E-newsletter

In Memoriam: Dick Knox, YATC president emeritus

Published December 2015

YATC is saddened by the loss of a member of our founding Board of Directors and president emeritus, Richard Knox. Mr. Knox passed away peacefully in North Carolina at the age of 87.  He was a close friend of Founder Jim Moran, working with him as YATC was established and serving on the Board of Directors 1984-2008.

More than just a supporter of YATC, Mr. Knox was an automotive industry expert who embodied the mission of the program. He worked tirelessly to develop the program to ensure students and graduates would receive the education and life skills necessary for them to build successful lives. He also worked closely with Jim Moran to develop the Jim Moran Classic as YATC's sole fundraiser. 

"Dick Knox was a critical member of our founding team and we are forever grateful for his leadership and devotion to the school," said YATC Board President Larry McGinnes. "A fund for the welfare of students and graduates will be established in his memory in 2016. Dick will be greatly missed by all of us at YATC."

2015 Jim Moran Classic

Published December 2015

This fall, more than 800 individuals and corporations stepped up to support the 2015 Jim Moran Classic, providing funding to cover the operating expenses of the program for one year. 

Founding Sponsor The Cross Country Group and Super Big Heart Sponsors Auto Carrier Express and Jan Moran were among nearly 30 Major Sponsors, and more than 50 celebrity guests joined the Classic weekend. 

Guests heard from current student Jameson Dely (right) at the Classic Banquet, learning how the program is steering him toward a better future. Graduate David Ruiz (Class of 2005) also shared how YATC has shaped his life in the past 10 years.

The presentation of the Jim Moran Award to Chi Chi Rodriguez (below) was a weekend highlight.  Executive Director Terry Routley (left) and Jan Moran presented the golf legend with this special honor in recognition of his outstanding dedication and commitment to the school and the Jim Moran Classic, which he has participated in for 27 years.

Thank you to all of our 2015 Jim Moran Classic sponsors!

2016 Cool Wheels Car Show

Published December 2015

January 17, 2016 

The 5th Annual Cool Wheels Car Show will feature more than 500 fantastic show cars, a silent auction, raffles, food trucks and the Broward Sheriff's Office SWAT presentations. Cash prizes and trophies will be awarded. Car entry is just $20 until January 12. Spectators are free (just pay park fees). 

For more information on entering your car, call Joe Aliseo at (561) 452-3684, visit the event Facebook page or see the registration page online.

Remembering Our Founder

Published December 2015

YATC Founder Jim Moran enjoyed spending time with students and graduates. Here he visited with a student in YATC's first class in 1984 at the original facility in Hollywood, FL.

Tech Tip

Published December 2015

Winter is coming

Smart drivers know how important it is to keep their vehicles well-maintained in snowy, cold weather.  But even car owners in the southern states should take the time for some winter preparation this season.  The following tips come from the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). 

• Change oil and filter as recommended and more often if you do a lot of stop-and-go driving.  This simple step is essential to protect your engine.
• Check brakes regularly for safety and to prevent unnecessary damage caused by worn-out brakes.
• Keep an eye on transmission fluids to head off a major failure or costly repairs.
• Stow an emergency kit in the car. Drivers who may encounter snow or freezing temperatures should have gloves, boots, blankets, flares, a small shovel or kitty litter, flashlight with extra batteries, snack bars and water.
• Above all, always follow the manufacturer's recommended service schedule to keep you on the road in a safe, well-performing vehicle.