5/16/2013 - May Monthly Club Planning Meeting

Well the rain held off and we had a great turn out for our May meeting. Hosted by Tom and Suzanne Arnold in their usual welcoming style, we sat around the pool and enjoyed chicken and bbq as well as drinks and ice cream sandwiches! Since we had a large group and several first time members Kirk had us all introduce ourselves and our cars.

Tom, as Membership Director, reported that we have 61 paid members, 19 who have not renewed from 2012 for 2013 as of yet, and 13 2011 active members who did not renew in 2012, but will be asked if they would like to renew for 2013 without being charged for last year. Tom will be contacting all of those who have not renewed.

Tim Ross, as Treasurer, reported no changes in Treasury at this time.

Kirk Hodulik, President, then asked for hat orders. He had samples available and was able to fill the minimum group order number. If you still are interested in a hat, please contact Kirk before the end of the month to get your order and payment in. Kirk will be getting the order placed on June 1 and hopes to have hats available for the June 20 club meeting.

Rose GOTamiataSky then advised all first time members to see her after the meeting to get their name badges ordered. They will be available at the next event/meeting.

The remainder of the meeting was spent discussing our events calendar. Kirk will be leading a "Dairy Dip Dash" on the west side of Cincinnati in August, Larry and Jan Middendorf will be leading a drive to Elk Creek Winery in September, Ken Bogart will be leading a Covered Bridges Fall Foliage Drive in October, and Rose is planning a drive to Moyers Winery. Chris Bogart is also planning a Girls Drive. Please keep checking the website for updates on these events.

We also reviewed the events currently on the calendar as well as our recent participation in the Sharonville Car Show.

If you weren't able to join us we hope to see you soon at an event or our next meeting which will be June 20 at Blue Ash Park.

Rose GOTamiataSKY, Secretary

4/28/2013 - MIATAS in the 36th Annual Sharonville Classic Car Show!

Marking its 36th anniversary, the 2013 Sharonville Classic Car Show was held on the streets of downtown Sharonville (Reading Rd). This is the longest running car show in the region. These are not the cars you will see in early June at the Concours d'Elegance, but the cars you remember from when you were young because your grandfather, dad, uncle or the neighbor next door had one.

GCMC member Bruce Buckley convinced the show committee that a new show class was needed and got them to create a class just for Miatas this year. Thirteen Miatas showed up under somewhat rainy conditions to display their bling. Twelve of the 13 cars were GCMC members. Owners scrambled several times to put tops up as a rain shower passed through and then meticulously wiped off all the water after the shower passed and put their tops back down.

As the skies cleared, pedestrian traffic picked up and lots of folks stopped to inspect our Miatas and chat with various owners about the cars or share memories of prior ownership experiences. Membership chairman Tom Arnold recruited several potential new club members during the day.

Each car class was presented a first, second and third place trophy based on voting of all the owners in that particular class. Congratulations to Kirk Hodulik, our club president, who took first place honors with his ’92 Black & Tan, Tom Hemsath for second place in his ’90 Classic Red and John Haas in his ’03 Garnet Red Mica. A big thanks goes to Bruce Buckley for also sponsoring our class for this first year!

4/6/2013 - Kings Mazda Tune Up and Club Meeting

What a fantastic day and turn out at Kings Mazda!!! We had to close registration for the first time at 30 cars. Kings did free oil changes and inspections on the cars as well as providing juice, coffee and donuts for us. THANK YOU KINGS MAZDA. This event alone is worth the cost of a year's membership in our club. But your membership also entitles you to discounts on parts and services at Kings-just show them your current membership card.

We also had our April Club meeting. Kirk Hodulik, President, introduced the club leadership folks that were in attendance (complete list here on the website).

We still need about 6 additional orders for club hats-we need to order 12 for this first order. Please contact Kirk for more info.

We are working with Joe Portas aka "The Knobmeister" on updated name badges. The samples were presented and information was taken from those in attendance for our first order. The club will purchase the member's badge after they attend their first meeting or event. You may pick it up at the next meeting or event that you attend. If additional badges are needed for spouse, children etc they may be ordered for $6 each, which is our actual cost.

Tom Arnold updated us on current memberships and Tim Ross gave us the year end Treasurer's report.

We welcomed Larry Clark and Dennis Helferich who were attending their first club event.

The Hawks Nest / Blackwater Falls West Virginia trip and the Geocaching 101 Drive were presented by the drive leaders. See the website Event Calendar for all the details.

We are still considering a pocket sized membership directory and club calendar but it will probably be next year before these are finalized and completed.

The remainder of the meeting was spent on filling out the Event Schedule. We got commitments for 5 member led drives - Girl's Drive to Metamora led by Chris Bogart in July, Kentucky Twisties Drive led by Rose Gontkovsky in June, Elk Creek Winery Drive led by Larry Middendorf, Moyer's Winery Drive led by Rose Gontkovsky in September, and Jim Vornberger will lead a drive to Midway. We also have a partial commitment for the Covered Bridges Drive in July and rumor has it that Kirk will lead a drive. These will be added to the schedule as soon as we finalize the dates. Tim Ross will be happy to work with anyone who has not led a drive in the past but would like to do so. We do require that you have been on at least one drive with us and the upcoming May 4th Geocaching Drive would be a great time to meet that requirement : ) There are a number of preplanned drives already listed on the website that you can download, but you will need to run them as roads change over the years. And we always welcome Impromtu Drives or "Get Togethers" such as Sonic, Root Beer Stand or Quaker Steak and Lube on a particularly nice day. Look for the drive dates to populate the Event Schedule and emails to let people know about these drives and the Impromptu Drives.

Our next event is the Sharonville Car show on April 28th where we will have a Miata class for the first time. Thanks to Bruce Buckley for sponsoring the trophies!!! There is still time to register early at the $15 per car rate before April 15th, which will insure you ease of entry into the car show and a good parking spot to show your Miata if nothing else!

It finally feels like Spring-time to Zoom Zoom!

Rose GotaMiataSky
Secretary

2/23/2013 - Chili Cook Off & February/March Club Planning Meeting

WOW-it sure was difficult to pick just one out of 13 great pots of chili but balloting declared Teri Haas the clear winner. Her surprise ingredients were raisins and coffee!!! Many thanks to all who participated in the cook off and to those who brought yummy desserts, corn bread and appetizer trays.

We did more eating and socializing than business but did discuss the upcoming events on the calendar, particularly the overnight to WV on Memorial Day weekend and our first ever geo caching drive in early May. Kirk brought a video of the early days of the Miata which was presented to Teri along with a $50 Kroger gift card. All other participants went home with their choice of items from the club's goodie bag.

We welcomed new members Mike and Linda Rubush and John and Connie Wagner. Both couples brought chili and were a welcome addition to our evening. We hope to see them at many more events!

We are still working on club name badge designs and members can contact Kirk to place their hat orders.

Be sure to keep checking the Events Calendar as things are added as we learn about them. And remember, if you are going somewhere in your Miata there are probably others who would enjoy the ride and activity. We welcome impromptu get togethers which are usually prompted by outstanding weather!!! Contact any of the officers or board members and we can add your event to the calendar.

Is it Spring yet??????

Rose GotaMiataSky
Secretary

1/17/2013 - January Monthly Club Planning Meeting

Many topics were discussed at the meeting, and elections for club leadership were also held.

First we recognized Marcia Jones, who although was not able to attend the meeting, received a round of applause for her years of service as Membership Director and last year as Club Secretary. Tom Arnold has volunteered to take over the role of Membership Director, and has established a new PO Box address accordingly. The new PO Box address information has been added to the website, including the Membership Application Form PDF page. Remember to use the new PO Box address for those that pay their dues by U.S. Mail.

Five club members were nominated and elected to the Executive Board. The elected board members are: Tom Arnold, Bob Askin, John Haas, Kirk Hodulik, and Tim Ross. These Executive Board Members then reappointed Kirk Hodulik as President, Allen Schutte as Vice President, and Tim Ross as Treasurer. Rose Gontkovsky offered to be Secretary and was appointed as such. Their contact information on the About the Club has also been updated.

OUR BIG NEWS is as a club we have had a Miata Class added to the Sharonville Car Show, which is the longest continuous running car show in the Cincinnati area! This event is April 28th. See the Event Schedule for further information and to sign up!

Club president Kirk Hodulik had Kevin Mitchell make a presentation on ball caps which will be embroidered with the club logo reading Greater Cincinnati Miata Club on the lower portion of the logo under the car silhouette, with a price around $20.00 each depending on hat style/type. If you wish to receive an order form, please contact Kirk Hodulik and he will send you the form. Forms and hat samples will be available at the February Chili Cook-off as well. A minimum order of (12) hats is required.

We also briefly discussed club name badges with samples from the Knobmeister. Rose Gontkovsky will be following up on having additional samples made for review.

Tom Arnold is looking into the production of a GCMC Calendar available for members, featuring photos of our Miatas with our events pre-printed on the actual calendar date, running from April 2013 - March 2014. Stay tuned.

A club directory is something also in the works, which Tom Arnold has also agreed to help facilitate as part of his new role as Membership Director.

Lastly we discussed events for the coming driving season. For a complete list of events that have been scheduled, see our Event Schedule area of the website.

It looks like 2013 will be another great year for the club. The only thing that can make it better is your participation and involvement in the club's various activities. I hope you will be able to take full advantage!

Zoom Zoom!

Kirk Hodulik
GCMC President

12/9/2012 - Greater Cincinnati Miata Club Holiday Party

On Sunday evening 28 club members celebrated the holidays with our annual holiday party. For the second year in a row, we were hosted by club member Joe O'Gorman at his Full Throttle Indoor Karting facility. A Honey Baked Ham, provided by the club, was prepared to perfection by Wendy and Bob Askin. Side dishes and desserts were brought and shared among club members while soft drinks were also provided by the club. More "exotic drinks" were available to imbibe for those who had more sophisticated palates.

Club directors and officers were recognized for their leadership roles and efforts and all in attendance received a Mazda Goodie Bag.

Not to be forgotten, a brief meeting to discuss the coming year was also held. Besides the typical January election of directors and officers and the planning of our 2013 club events schedule, we also discussed new items for membership. These included new name badges for all club members and spouses/significant others featuring our current club logo, a passport sized printed membership directory handy to keep in your Miata glove box or center storage console, and an annual calendar that most likely would coincide with our driving season schedule (running April to April). To whatever extent possible, it will list primary information of club and other automotive events during the year that would typically be featured on our website events schedule.

After the meeting, those that brought gifts, participated in our annual White Elephant gift exchange. As is typical, there is nothing typical about these gifts. Some are quite thoughtful and perhaps even useful while others will, shall we say, find their best purpose in being re-gifted in a future White Elephant gift exchange.

Lastly, shortly after 7:00 pm, those that were interested participated in kart racing. We had two racing heats - an aggressive heat won by Jon Roberto followed by Ken Bogart (both of whom lapped the rest of the group) and a novice heat for those interested in getting a little seat time in a kart on the track, but also didn't want to lose their dinner in the process. Others who did not race watched some of the racing while also having an opportunity to relax and further socialize.

Besides the great venue and all of the great food a special thanks goes out to Tim and Bobbi Ross for bringing soft drinks, hot chocolate with marshmallows, cups, plates, and bowls, flatware and ice for the event. As always you guys ROCK!

Thanks to everyone for making 2012 a great year and we look forward to another great year in 2013!

Happy Holidays!

Kirk Hodulik
GCMC President

11/11/2012 - Impromptu Rabbit Hash Dash

Nine cars met at Devou park to take advantage of the last fine weather of the driving season on Sunday 11/12 with an impromptu dash to Rabbit Hash, KY. No one had had a chance to check the drive directions in some time but we headed out with our family radios and crossed fingers anyway! It didn't take long to figure out that just getting out of Devou park and onto the right road to start the dash proved to be a real challenge - that's what turn-arounds are for, right?

A few missed turns, unlabeled roads and an hour later resulted in a bit more confusion along the way. Traffic lights and slow-poke farmers in pickup trucks caused a few group separations. Teri Haas and her granddaughter had to leave us before we reached our destination as Rainey had to be back in time for a driving lesson of all things! I hope we weren't too bad an influence in her. Finally Ken Bogart and his GPS unit was pressed into service to lead us the last few miles into Rabbit Hash. The 'Mayor' was off duty Sunday, so we didn't get to pet her. A few refreshments were consumed and a comfort break was most welcome. We headed back toward Newport on a more direct route to have lunch at Buckhead Mountain Grill. (Is this becoming a trend?)

All in all, it seems we had a pretty good drive - even if there were a few missed turns and some turn-arounds. The weather was perfect for some top-down driving. We don't get many days like that in November with mostly sunny skies and temperatures near 70!

Thanks to all that participated!

Bob Askin

11/1/2012 - Unexpected Loss of Past President Mike Lukey

On Wednesday, October 31, past Greater Cincinnati Miata Club president Mike Lukey unexpectedly passed away due to heart complications. He had recently had a heart attack but was on the mend and had returned to work. He was 59 years old and guided the club as president in the early to mid 2000's. While Mike led the club, he constantly made remarkable changes and upgrades to his black NA Miata.

Mike Lukey, as president each year established a planned events calendar at the January meeting for the entire year, coordinated, ran and participated in almost every event and meeting, continued the running of the MMG with Rose Gontkovsky typically at the helm as MMG chairperson and vice president of the club, and provided all sorts of tech talk on upgrades and car care for the Miata both formally and informally at meetings and events. He was sort of a guy’s guy regarding talking cars, upgrades, performance, and driving.

Mike was a wiz at installing components including electrical upgrades and cosmetic upgrades. While leading the club, Mike constantly made remarkable changes and upgrades to his black NA Miata. His black NA was the sharpest car in the club and had almost every upgrade and aftermarket component known to man on it.

Mike kept his Miata longer than any other car he had ever owned, as he loved to buy good, pre-owned, often high end sports cars and then trick them out to his liking. He usually kept a car 24 to 30 months and then flipped it for a different car and car upgrade project. Mike left the club after selling his car, but we would bump into him at various car related events, including parking with us in our Miata parking area at the Concours d’Elegance when he had his deep metallic blue Nissan Z car.

He had his Miata much longer than his other previous cars, and when he decided to sell, Ken and Christine Bogart bought it as Christine’s car. When the supercharged engine blew on the car, Ken replaced the engine with a stock NA engine and that is the car you will see today when Christine brings it to an event.

For those of us who knew Mike Lukey well, he will be missed.

Kirk Hodulik
GCMC President

10/24/2012 - October Planning Meeting

The October planning meeting was held Thursday, October 18, at the Lebanon home of members Bob and Wendy Askin. After a delicious meal of chili, cornbread, salad and cherry tomatoes, VP Allen Schutte called the meeting to order. Present were Tim and Bobbi Ross, John and Teri Haas, Bob and Wendy Askin, and Allen and Marcia Schutte.

The October 20 Fall Drive and Lobsta Bake event was cancelled due to lack of participants, but could possibly be rescheduled some time next year.

We received a (late!) invitation to join the Ohio Valley Miata Club for their Fall Leaf Run at Shawnee State Forest for Saturday, October 27. Tim and John were familiar with the proposed route, and it was agreed that this is an event our members would likely enjoy. Teri Haas agreed to check into availability of accommodations so our club could drive up Friday night. The details will be posted on the club events schedule.

Allen suggested an overnight trip to Nashville Lane Motor Museum (and to sample local music venues) for early November, but Tim said a good drive takes six months to plan, so the idea was tabled.

Joe O'Gorman of Full Throttle was holding the first two Sundays of December for us to use his facility for our annual Christmas party. It was decided the party will be held December 9. Arrive at 5:30 to decorate our cars for a ride around Glendale to look at homes decorated for Christmas. Wendy Askin volunteered to pick up the ham from Honey Baked as our main dish. A-series car owners bring desserts; B-series bring appetizers, C-series bring side dishes. Bobbi and Tim will bring a hot chocolate fountain so we can warm up after our drive! The party will feature the ever-popular white elephant gift exchange, and we will nominate and elect our Board of Directors at the party, who are responsible for electing officers for next year.

A new event was suggested by John Haas, the Hawks Nest/Blackwater Falls drive in West Virginia tentatively scheduled for April 19-20. More details will be posted as they become available.

Allen and Marcia volunteered their home at Hidden Valley Lake on the WEST side of Cincinnati for the November 15 planning meeting, but it was decided to cancel the November meeting because it is too close to Thanksgiving this year. Therefore, our next meeting will be at the Christmas party December 9.

Marcia mentioned that if the club is going to host the MMG for 2013, now is the time to start planning and forming committees. Two years ago another club was supposed to host, and backed out. There was no MMG last year. It was decided that Cincinnati will pass on hosting this year, but will contact other clubs in the Midwest to offer planning guidance if any of them are interested in hosting.

There was a discussion of our current economic situation. It was agreed that $2500 would be kept on hand for future deposits, gifts, meeting expenses, etc. Several charities were suggested to receive any overages. We will discuss this further at a future meeting.

Respectfully Submitted,

Marcia Jones Schutte,
Membership Secretary

9/20/2012 - September Monthly Planning Meeting

The meeting was hosted by Jon & Lori Roberto, along with their dogs Lulu and Cooper. Burgers and hotdogs provided by our hosts were enjoyed by all along with all of the great side dishes and desserts everyone brought.
• The directors and officers present at the meeting agreed to discern/approve future club expenditures related to events and/or event prizes for club sponsored functions. As a nonprofit organization, it is our responsibility from time to time to use dues collected monies on club related events for the benefit of the members. It was also approved to continue the tradition of distributing $25 gas gift cards to any member(s) who plan and lead a driving event.
• The Union Centre Music and Food Festival is on Saturday, September 29. We need to be on site sometime shortly after 9:00 AM to participate in the show from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Cars need to remain on site during the car show hours and may remain after as long as you wish to remain at the event. Registration table with signs will be present to register your car and pay the $10.00 fee. A final car count is required by September 27 to be in the show.
• Tim and Bobbi Ross and Bob and Wendy Askin reported on their trip to attend the Nashville "Miatas Play Music City - Verse 1." Great drives, well planned, lots of drive and event options. Sites included visiting the Lane Motor Museum, the Parthenon replication and the Pyramid. This will be an every other year event, so "Verse 2" will be in 2014.
• The October 20th Fall Foliage Drive and Lobsterfest is going to go another direction. Tim Ross is looking into the Lobster bake option in Milford (at $40.00 per person) along with doing a drive in Northern Kentucky, possibly the Augusta drive featured in the Miata Enthusiasts Handbook submitted by Jon Roberto.
• Other events that were discussed is a joint event with the Buckeye Club (Columbus area club) when Bob Askin met a former past president of the Buckeye Club at the "Miatas Play Music City" event. Kirk will contact the Buckeye Club contact person to get the ball rolling. Bob also received information at the Nashville event about the "Miatas in the Ozarks" in northwest Arkansas event planned for May 16-19, 2013. Registration has just opened and closes April 1, 2013. Check it out at www.nwamiataclub.com/MitO.
• Bob & Wendy Askin have graciously offered to host our October planning meeting at their residence in Lebanon, as usual providing meat (2 types of chili - one without beans, one traditional) and beverages, with attending club members providing side dishes.

9/16/2012 - Dayton Concours d'Elegance

Ken Kramer and Kirk Hodulik met at the Perkins at Tylersville Road and I-75 for breakfast at 8:30 am and about 9:30 headed up to Carillon Historical Park in Dayton for the 6th Annual Dayton Concours d'Elegance. Both of us, having attended the Cincinnati Concours d'Elegance on several occasions, were interested in seeing what Dayton had to offer. What would be the same and what would be different about the two shows. With the featured marques being Auburn, Cord and Duesenberg, we looked forward to what we would see.

First, the Park is very interesting in itself, with a visitor's center/museum and an historic village telling the story of Dayton's transportation history, inventions, and manufacturing significance. This, in itself, is more than worth the visit. Then of course there were the cars.

The number of cars were fewer than Cincinnati's show, but much more to my liking where you were not overwhelmed by the numbers. And, with the historic village as a backdrop, it just seemed a little less formal and a little more easy going. There were several food and drink options and with the show being in mid September under several mature shade trees, the weather could not have been more pleasant.

At a show admission price of just $15, this is an event that should not be missed!

8/16/2012 - August 16 Club Meeting Highlights

The meeting was hosted by Larry and Jan Middendorf with excellent grilling by their son consisting of chicken breasts, hamburgers, and mets/brats provided by our hosts.
• The directors and officers present at the meeting agreed to discern/approve future club expenditures related to events and/or event prizes for club sponsored functions. As a nonprofit organization, it is our responsibility from time to time to use dues collected monies on club related events for the benefit of the members. It was also approved to continue the tradition of distributing $25 gas gift cards to any member(s) who plan and lead a driving event.
• The Union Centre Music and Food Festival has invited our club to participate in their first annual car show. The event is to take place on Saturday, September 29. Kirk Hodulik, GCMC President, sees this as an opportunity for us to show off our Miata's to a large audience and be part of this inaugural to be annual event. If the club has enough club members participate, we will have our own parking area to rival or surpass other car clubs. A dash plaque will we given to all participants with judging to come next year. It would be great to have a dozen or more Miatas at this event. See the Event Schedule for details.
• Two new event ideas were discussed. The first is a possible Labor Day weekend drive and the second is a Fall Foliage Drive and Lobster Fest tentatively set for the weekend of October 20/21. Through Larry and Jan Middendorf's other son, a Maine fisherman, we can have fresh lobster at a reasonable price per person and then boil them to perfection. Drive and location of the Lobster Fest final destination is yet to be determined although a club member's residence is most likely. This would be a fitting end celebration to the 2012 driving season. Stay tuned for details.
• Jon and Lori Roberto have graciously offered to host our September 20 planning meeting at their residence, as usual providing meat and beverages, with attending club members providing side dishes.

8/12/2012 - Cincinnati Hometown Rally

On a beautiful Sunday morning and early afternoon, 10 cars, including Ron and Lisa with a Porsche, participated in the Hometown Rally put on by Jon Roberto and John Haas. Nineteen somewhat obtuse images of Cincinnati area landmarks and points of interest had to be identified and then found with photographic proof of being there. Points were awarded based on photo proof, photo with participant in it, photo with both participants from the team in it, photo with participants and car in it, and most creative / make the judges laugh. Of the nineteen, on average only about ten were found and photographed in the two hour timed rally, as points would be deducted for each minute late.

Bob and Terri Mackey won the event with their creative photo images, while Bob Askin and his buddy Bob Thalheimer took second followed by Rose GOTamiataSKY and Jerry Jaspers taking third. While a Zoom Zoom goodie bag of items was handed out to all particpants, prizes for the top three finishers were Cincinnati favorites gift certificate of The Montgomery Inn/Boathouse ($100), LaRosa's ($50) and Graeters ($25).

Jerry has NO CHANCE of getting any of the Graeters from Rose (just saying)...

Kirk Hodulik

7/30/2012 - Heading South on I-75 this Summer?

If you are going South via I-75 you will hit a major tie up just South of the Ky-Tn border. I saw the sign "long delay" and stopped in the rest area to check it out. They had a cue sheet that gave an alternate route via 25W. It was described as 3o miles with the the first 20 as 2 lane winding road and the last 10 as 4 lane. Because I was in my truck 20 miles of winding roar did not have much appeal so I decided to go thru on 75. BIG MISTAKE!!! When I hit the back up it took me 30 minutes to go 2 miles. Again, because I was in the truck I made a U across the grass median and went back to the by-pass route.
On my way home from Fl 2 weeks later I could see where I had turned back. It was still 4 miles from the actual construction. If the traffic is the same you are looking at a minimum of 1.5 hour delay. 75 is down to 1 lane South.

Dick Getoor

PS they told me in the rest area that it would be like that all summer long

A better option is to take 25EAST/33SOUTH. I did not have to sit in any traffic while those who took 25 WEST did!

7/29/2012 - Miatas at the Gap XVI & Biltmore Estate Tour

Eight GCMC cars attended this annual event in Deal's Gap, NC.-Tom Arnold, Bob Mackey, John and Terri Haas, Mark McCormick, Jon Roberto, Ryan Collins, Bryan Wyatt and myself. 5 of us ran down together Friday morning. We got rained on twice (tops down of course) and it was pouring when we arrived but quickly cleared up. We relaxed by the pool then had a nice dinner at the Lodge. Ryan Collins got down there late due to car trouble and had his first taste of the Dragon in the dark!

Saturday morning three cars headed to the Biltmore Estate. On the way we were stopped for doing 63 in a 55 zone but just got a warning. Our mistake was passing an unmarked patrol car : ) We toured the house and then did a little shopping and wine tasting. After some fantastic ice cream we headed to the Winery, driving through the beautiful gardens on our way. We shared some wine and cheese and good conversation before heading back to Fontana. Those who stayed behind went to the Dam for the annual group picture and did some drives. Sat night was the popular Beer Exchange (bring your local beer and trade it) and wine tasting. Then more socializing around the pool.

Sunday everyone left at different times to head back. I decided to drive the Foothills Pkwy and instead of ending up in Townsend my GPS took me back to Rt 129 via an awesome road- N334 I think. Definitely worth doing again next time!

Thanks to Bryan Wyatt for adding the photos to the photo gallery as all I had were from the Biltmore Estate.

Rose

7/15/2012 - 2012 British Car Show of Greater Cincinnati

On Sunday Tom Arnold, Dave Gasper, John Haas, Kirk Hodulik and Bob Mackey braved the elements and drove their Miatas over to Fairfield to check out the British Car Show. We had anticipated seeing Tim Ross's Austin Healey 3000, but this was to no avail. Tim's car was in the shop still trying to get the engine tuned properly, so we will all have to wait until next year to vote for Tim's car. There were a couple of cars in the Miata Class including club member Jim Ollier's 1999 BRG which is a near perfect car. Because the rains came, we did not stay to see how the judging turned out.

7/14/2012 - James Bond's Aston Martin DB5 at the Cincinnati Art Museum and Moerlein Lager House

John and Teri Haas, Tom Arnold, Bruce Fahey, Bob Askin, Jon Roberto, Kirk Hodulik, and Larry and Jane Middendorf along with their daughter and son-in-law were in attendance for this event. The car was awesome, as only a James Bond car can be but not being able to take pictures was not so awesome, so many had to settle for a $1.07 postcard (including tax). Afterward we headed down to the Moerlein Lager House were we enjoy delicious lunches and imbibed in our favorite drink.

7/12/2012 - July 12 Club Meeting Highlights

The meeting was hosted by Ken and Chris Bogart with excellent grilled hamburgers and hotdogs,etc provided by our hosts.
• Tim Ross, who was unable to attend provided a GCMC treasury update that after paying for club clings, pins and magnets shows a health positive balance. This will allow us to underwrite future club functions.
• New member Larry Middendorf (1999 BRG)and his wife Jan were in attendance. They have graciously offered to host our August 16 planning meeting at their residence, as usual providing meat and beverages, with attending club members providing side dishes.
• To widen the number of participants, the Sunday morning, August 12 Cincinnati Hometown Rally may be rescheduled for the same day in the afternoon. Stay tuned for details.
• John Haas mentioned that the current Minis Club president is interested in putting together a Miatas and Minis event down to Memphis, TN. The "3M" event will be a 3-4 day trip over a long weekend taking advantage of the food, music and sights of Memphis. This is being planned as a 2013 event.

6/28/2012 - June 28 Club Meeting Highlights

The meeting was hosted by original members Tim & Bobbi Ross. The cookout, mojitos and potato acceleration device were great as always.
• Marcia Jones Schuttte reported that we have just over 80 paid membership this year.
• Tim Ross reported that after the club had purchased club cling decals and fronted the money for club car door magnets and club hat/lapel pins (to be sold to members at/near cost), the club's financial situation is good.
• New member Larry Cummins was introduced. He and Tim go way back to the old Spitfire club days. See the New Member section of the newsletter for more on Larry and his car.
• We have also added one event for July 14 to drive up to the Cincinnati Art Museum to see the James Bond Aston Martin DB5 and then cruise down from Mt. Adams to the new Moerlein Lager House located next to Great American Ballpark for lunch and suds for those that wish to imbibe after drooling over the Aston Martin. See the event section for further details.
• There is a cruise-in at the Shops of West Chester at the opposite end from the Rave Theaters every Tuesday night if anyone is interested. A similar event also occurs on Thursday evenings centered around the post office in downtown Sharonville. The cruise-ins begin around 5:00 pm and go to 9:00 pm or dark as the days shorten. See the table in the July newsletter for all the cruise-in offerings in the Tri-state. Thanks to Tom Arnold for forwarding this information.
•Tim & Bobbi Ross have the GCMC logo car door magnets 11.5” x 7”) and hat/lapel pins (1" wide) for sale. The door magnets are $15 each. These are really heavy duty magnets and look really nice. The hat/lapel pins are $2.50 each. They are also quite nice. See Tim or Bobbi at the next club event to purchase.
• The July meeting will be July 12 at Ken Bogart’s house. The theme will be another grill-out. Ken will provide the meat and asks that everyone else bring a side dish to share. Check the club website Events Schedule for details and directions to the Bogart’s house.
• Congratulations go out to Marcia Jones Schutte (club membership director) and Allen Schutte (club VP) on their recent marriage. We wish them many years of happiness and of course lot of Miata zoom zoom time together!

6/23/2012 - Burlington House Car Show

There were some really beautiful automobiles that turned out for this event. Congratulations to Ms. Mary Manska for taking the 3rd place trophy for her lavender '91 Miata. I think she is gong to use it for her hood ornament-Marvin was already measuring : D Fresh from her victory she and Marvin are heading to the Gap tomorrow!

Burlington House plans to do this as an annual event so I hope more of you can join us next year. The staff was so welcoming and the residents were so thrilled to see all the cars. It was a very nice event.

Again, CONGRATULATIONS to Mary and Marvin!

Rose

6/10/2012 - 2012 35th Annual Ault Park Concours d'Elegance

We had 30 members and friends join us with a car count of 19. Don Slicker, former club member, was ever so thankful to ride and park with us. I think I noticed we picked up a couple of other Miatas joining us in our parking paddock later in the day. This included a couple with a recent model year Copper Mica Retractable Hard Top. Despite the heat, a good time was had by all.

Frank Diedrich enjoyed what he experienced with his stock 1990 red Miata in the Asian Car Division display area and seeing the show for the first time. He has a whole new appreciation for car condition, preparation and forward thinking maintenance.

Attendance probably exceeded the previous years' norm of 5,000. There were quite a few cars that were first time attendees, including a Stutz Bearcat and Stutz coupe from Houston, cars from St. Louis and elsewhere and the surprising number from our own area. The wooden boats were also magnificent to see. Food, especially the shrimp and crab cakes, were great and the Samuel Adams beer was extra cold and flowing fast.

Mark your calendars for next year because this is an annual true highlight of the summer.

5/20/2012 - May Miatas at Deals Gap Trip

BIG THANKS to John Haas for planning and leading our trip this year. We had a great time driving and then socializing in the evening. The cocktails and sushi on Friday night were especially good! We had some really good early morning Dragon runs and first time driver Terri Mackey was very impressive. Bob and Wendy did a lot of geo caching in addition to driving. Ken Bogart took us to the Falls which I didn't even know existed, and since the Bistro is now closed I introduced everyone to the ice cream place by the river. We missed our Saturday morning connection with Jon and Lori and since cell phone reception is so poor down there we never saw them again! Hopefully John H and Terri M will post their pictures.

If you missed this trip we are going again in July for the 16th National Miatas at the Gap. All the details are on the website. Since I did so much driving in May, for the July trip I am planning to go to Biltmore Estate on Saturday. Please join me as we tour the mansion and then grab a bottle of wine and some cheese and crackers and sit on the patio at the winery. Don't forget to sign up on the website if you are coming along.

Rose

4/29/2012 - 35th Annual Sharonville Classic Car Show

This year, despite the threat of rainy weather, a few brave souls from the club toured the car show. GCMC member Bruce Buckley had his 1972 Cuda in the show which was a very nice example of 70's Mopar Muscle.

Because of the overall variety of cars in this show, and the fact that the Miata has been around for 22 model years and about to unveil it's fourth generation car, we are will be, with Bruce Buckley's help, looking into adding a Miata class to the Sharonville Classic Car Show for 2013. With any luck for next year, we will not only be admiring other peoples rides, but also displaying ours!

4/15/2012 - Cincinnati SCCA Autocross at Wilmington Air Park

The Cincinnati SCCA began their autocross season at the Wilmington Air Park in Wilmington, Ohio. Member Gary Benz attended and finished 8th in his (Miata NC) class of approximately 20 cars. Gary said he had a blast and intends to take advantage of future autocross events. He also stated there were several Miata's at the event. It sounds like the autocross event is worth club members taking advantage of by participating this driving season.

4/14/2012 - Spring Clean-Up

Mike Harris, owner of Poppadent, opened up his garages to us so cars could be pulled out of the rain and have dent and door dings removed. In addition club members Jon Roberto, Tom Arnold, and others assisted club members clean, detail, buff, and polish members' Miatas. Bob Mackey's Black NA received the whole treatment including cleaning, protecting and buffing the rear plastic window to the point he no longer is looking to replace it! Mike Harris (Mr. Poppadent himself) was the gracious host who touched up scratches and performed his dent removal wizardry. We even had Bob Nix and his friend bring their Miatas up from Louisville to take advantage of Mike's work.

3/31/2012 - Spring Tune-Up at Kings Mazda

With all of the great weather we have had in March many have brought their Miatas out of hibernation a little earlier this year. With that in mind, on Saturday, March 31, twenty Miatas were inspected, oil changed, minor service work completed, and in some instances have additional service scheduled for our cars at Kings Mazda. Although we had as many as thirty-one cars signed up for this event, we had a few club members decline having their car(s) serviced due to the high volume of cars to be inspected along with a few no shows.

The Kings Mazda crew provided breakfast and space for us to have our Spring Driving Season Kick-Off Meeting. Many issues were discussed including the announcement of new officers and board members (see the "About the Club" section on this website to see the 2012 leadership team), planning drives and events, etc. Club dues were also paid by new and renewing members (which annually come due on April 1). With each membership paid, a new static window cling was provided along with a membership card for 2012. From this date forward, all new and renewing memberships will receive these items as part of their membership package. For those that have not renewed in person, these items will be sent via U.S. Mail by the membership director along with a printed out hard copy of the website registration directions.

As GCMC dues paying members, Kings Mazda offers discounts of 18% for all OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer's) parts and OEM accessories and $20 off of the standard service technician's (mechanic's) hourly rate, which is over a 20% discount, while any aftermarket work is discounted 10%.

All participating club members for this event have been entered into Kings Mazda database, and now with your new membership card, you can simply show it at point of service with Kings Mazda to receive your membership discounts. In addition a list of all paid up club members as of June will be submitted to Kings for service and parts discount purposes. So please take advantage of this offer!

Thank you Kings Mazda for the great event, and all service and parts discounts throughout the year to our club members!

Kirk Hodulik

2/16/2012 - February Monthly Planning Meeting

On Thursday evening sixteen of us met at Full Throttle Indoor Karting. The meeting basically reviewed our event schedule through June, giving additional information on those events already listed, as well as a few additional events to be added. A reminder of the Machine Gun Shoot with the Mini Club is set for April 14th, which is the same day as our Poppadent Spring Clean-Up Event. The additional events include a Saturday, July 7th drive to the Wolf Park in Indiana (about an hour northwest of Indianapolis) that is being coordinated by Mary Manska, and a Drive-in Drive-in event being coordinated for a date this summer by Marcia Jones and Sherry Glover. We will also get the SCCA, CSCC (Cincinnati Sports Car Club) and the Austin-Healey Club's Autocross events on our schedule once that information is made available.

Tom and Suzanne Arnold will be hosting our May 10th club meeting at their residence. This meeting will be a week early due to our May events of the Mecum Auto Auctions in Indianapolis and our club's Deals Gap trip. An April meeting host is undetermined at this time.

We had one new member at our meeting, Mark McCormick, who is the proud owner of a True Red 2010 Retractable Hardtop Miata. It sounds like Mark is into aftermarket enhancements to his car, so I am sure we will get a chance to see what changes he has made soon.

Because we will be having our monthly club meeting at the Spring Tune-Up Event on March 31, it was decided to not have a third Thursday club meeting in March. At the Spring Tune-Up Event meeting, new club officers will be announced.

New Executive Board Members were solicited and voted in by club members at the meeting. The new Executive Board Members are: Tom Arnold, John Haas, Kirk Hodulik, Marcia Jones, and Tim Ross. The new Executive Board Members also have met and selected new club officers. New club officers will be announced at the Spring Tune-Up Event meeting.

1/23/2012 - 2012 Events

Several events have been added for the 2012 driving season, so please check them out in the Events Schedule.

Other 2012 events are still in the early planning stages and are not listed by date on the Events Schedule at this time. These additional events include the following:
- Spring: Hometown Rally
- Summer: Drive-in Drive-in (Drive-in restaurant and Drive-in movie)
- Summer: Drive to Frank Lloyd Wright's Westcott House, Springfield, OH
- SCCA Autocross Events
- Invitation to participate in other car clubs' events

1/22/2012 - January Planning Meeting

On Sunday afternoon we had twenty diehard GCMC members meet at Full Throttle Indoor Karting to outline the 2012 events calendar. Much was discussed including local driving events, regional events, a return to monthly meetings on Thursday evenings, and the election of new board members to elect new officers for 2012. Stay tuned to see all of the events listed in the Event Schedule.

Two new members were also in attendance for the first time, Gary Benz and Doug Kowalski. Gary recently purchased a 2008 NC with a black factory detachable hardtop and Doug, after five years of storing an original owner's Velocity Red 2006 NC, convinced her to sell it to him. Welcome to our new members and we look forward to seeing them at future events.

Our next monthly meeting will be at Full Throttle Indoor Karting on Thursday February 16 at 7:30 PM in the Party Room (where we met for the Holiday Party).

12/12/2011 - Year End

Another Miata year comes to an end with a great party at Full Throttle Indoor Karting. Plenty of food, laughs, white elephant shenanigans, go karting and a chocolate fountain!!! Can't wait for the pictures to be posted.

We have lots of plans for the upcoming year so keep checking the website. Happy New Year everyone.

Rose

12/11/2011 - No Miata Required

The Holidays are for spending time with family and friends. With that in mind we would like to invite all former and current GCMC members to join us for our annual party. The venue can handle a large crowd and we hope to fill it! Details are in the EVENTS section.

10/24/2011 - Valley Vineyards Drive

A big THANKS to Tim and Bobbi Ross for putting together a sweet drive to the Vineyards. We had 6 cars on the drive and 3 more that met us at the Vineyards for a total of 19 folks. Former club members, Ande and Sandy Weinstein joined us. (They were the inspiration for this drive). We enjoyed grilling our own salmon and steak and nobody left hungry : )

This was a great drive-plenty of Fall Foliage, chatter on our radios, twisties, everyone stayed together and no mishaps! Check out the photos and plan to join us on a drive next year.

9/17/2011 - Girls Drive to Berea, Ky

The women of Greater Cincinnati Miata Club left the rest stop on I-71/75 just after 8:00 on Saturday morning, September 17, for a trek down I-75 to Berea , KY. We arrived at the Kentucky Artisan Center about 9:30. WOW – they really MEAN “Artisan”, not craftsman! We explored the Center until the trolley arrived to give us a tour of Berea so we could get the lay of the land. After the trolley ride, we drove to the Boone Tavern Hotel for an early lunch – delicious food in a delightful setting. Then the shopping started – first near the Tavern, followed by Old Town . We explored the arts and crafts shops and were treated to the 15th annual Spoon Bread Festival, complete with a parade – old tractors, princesses, kings and queens, professional cars (hearses and ambulances), and horses, but no floats, bands or cheerleaders! When we had worn out our feet, we headed back to the Artisan Center for a snack, more shopping, and the end to a delightful day.

8/20/2011 - Root Beer Stand to Adventure Golf Scenic Drive

On a Saturday evening with questionable weather, nine MINIs and seven Miatas joined Tim (in his Miata) and Bobbi Ross (in the Ross MINI) at The Root Beer Stand in Sharonville. After those hungry and thirsty participants enjoyed some of The Root Beer Stand’s finest, everyone set off on a twisty one-hour route to Eastgate Adventures. Creek Road winds and curves through Blue Ash. Baker Lane , with its “k” missing from the sign you see when eastbound on State Route 28, connects 28 with U.S. 50 in Milford . While a few were thrown off course for a short period, everyone made it to the golf course okay. The route proved that you can go from The Root Beer Stand to Eastgate using nice, windy roads inside I-275 (mostly). The miniature golf course was busy, but those who played had a good evening – reconnecting with old friends and making new ones. Thanks to those who came – we hope you had an enjoyable time and will join us again. To those who didn’t – next time!



Tim and Bobbi Ross

7/16/2011 - Greater Cincinnati Miata Club Gear Is Here!

That’s right. For all of you club members wanting to show your pride in club membership, you may now order apparel (aka “Gear”) via our website link. As has been discussed in the last two club meetings, we have partnered with the SCCA to give our membership the opportunity to order as many or as few items as you wish, in colors and varieties you wish.

To do so simply select the "Login" button near the bottom of the left side tabs list, and login using your User ID and Password. After doing so, an expanded list of the left side tabs appears for logged-in members. In the middle of that grouping list is "Club Gear." Simply click on this tab and a new browser window will open to the SCCA Gear website page dedicated to the Greater Cincinnati Miata Club.

You will see "Cincinnati Miata Club" along with a sample of the embroidered club logo (actual size is about 3-1/2" wide) toward the top of the page and immediately below the first of two pages listing apparel items you may buy with the club logo. At this time I do not see hats as an apparel option, so we will have to look into their availability.

Thanks go to Joe O’Gorman, Sherry Glover, Rose “Gotamiatasky” and Ken Bogart for their efforts in making this possible!

Enjoy shopping!


Kirk Hodulik

7/4/2011 - Cedar Village Car Show

A HUGE thanks to all who came out despite the rain! Everyone who signed up was there-we had 8 Miatas and Bill Bowser joined us with his Lotus Elise. I will post pictures shortly.
The residents got a big kick out of the cars-especially Mary's Lavender Baby!!! We were prepared to take them for rides but the weather wasn't real cooperative for that. They took great care of us too-brought us water and fed us lunch as well as giving each of us a copy of their cook book. It really felt good to do something to bring a smile to the faces of others-and all we had to do was talk about and show off our cars : )

Later in the afternoon I headed over to Tri County to see Joe O'Gorman's new facility-Full Throttle Indoor Carting. WOW! It is huge and will be VERY nice as well as lots of FUN. They hope to open Labor Day weekend and have agreed to host our club's Christmas Party! YAY! I see some karting in our club's future.

Rose

6/25/2011 - Drive-in to Drive-in Impromptu Event

On Saturday evening five Miata's and past member and treasurer Bruce Fahey met at the Sonic Drive-in on the main drag in Hamilton for dinner outdoors. A pleasant evening's short drive and we were at the Holiday Drive-in theatre just outside of Hamilton. While we waited for the sky to darken, members socialized and enjoyed each other's company. We then enjoyed the Movie "Cars 2" (accept for the fireworks that were going off next door for the first 10-15 minutes). For those of you wanting to know if a Miata is in the movie, the answer is yes. But you have to watch closely because it only happens for a few seconds when the Miata exits the bathroom stall that Mater goes into. I know that's not what I was hoping for, but then again the movie won't win best picture either.

In the meantime, zoom zoom!

Kirk Hodulik

6/12/2011 - Concours d 'Elegance, Ault Park

Attending:
John Haas
Tom Arnold
Don Slicker +2
Dave Gasper
Ken Bogart +1 (Doug)
Ed Walker and friend from the Dayton Miata Club
Jon Roberto + 1
Greg Bodenburg + 1
Tom Draper +1

While this year’s group of club members was smaller than usual, the show was notably bigger and better even after 34 years of successful events. This was our tenth year of attending.
The weather was also the best we could recall for many years, so you never know. By noon the temperature had risen to 78 and the sun was shining bright.
This year’s marquee was Red Hot Rides-Ferrari and Fire Engines plus the 100th year celebration of Ault Park and the Indianapolis 500 and 50th anniversary for Jaguar XKE. They had put together a special collection of station wagon cars that were very nice. Studebaker and Ford were in stiff competition with each other. All in all, there were 13 classes of vintage, classic and exotic cars.
You can picture the old fire engines, so big and strong and heavy. Each one was shinier than the next and, yes, a few Dalmatian dogs were present, as well. In the center area, Ferrari’s were plentiful. Some were old and some brand new. The dominant color was red and we saw a couple that were black and one yellow. The engines in these cars were a sight to see and hear. The judges would ask each car owner to start his car, so cars, Indy racers and Packards were staring and revving. Wow, what a sound.
We did have a group of twenty tickets that went to club members and friends. In addition to our Miata’s (six) we had a Mini, Mustang, Subaru and Infinity G35.
I do hope next year we can attract a bigger group to equal or surpass previous years when we had 34 tickets and 17 Miata’s. Don’t miss it!

Tom Arnold

6/2/2011 - ZMOET-Zoomin the Mountains of East Tn

Several of us went down to this event and it was a blast! Mark your calendar for next year and join the fun. Lots of good drives,car show, autocross, corn hole, pool parties, live charity auction and LAPS ON BRISTOL MOTOR SPEEDWAY!!! All events were ala carte so you could do as much or as little as you chose. The people were great, hotel was very nice and there were lots of places to eat if you didn't want to join the party at the pool.

Bristol was the highlight of the trip for me. We went out onto the track in groups of 10 with a pace car-my group was moving fast enough that we were about to lap the 10th car. We weren't allowed to pass on the track so we had to slow down for our final (5th) lap. : (

Go to tri-citiesmiataclub.com to see all the pictures of what you missed : D It would be great to have a good group from our club next year. Think about it : )

ZOOM,ZOOM
Rose

4/23/2011 - Spring Tune-Up at Kings Mazda

Between all of the rain we've had in April, on Saturday fifteen Miatas were inspected, oil changed, minor service work completed, and in some instances have additional service scheduled for our cars at Kings Mazda.

The Kings Mazda crew provided breakfast and space for us to have our first club meeting of the year. Many issues were discussed including club shirts & hats, planning drives and events, etc. while club members enjoyed pizza and soft drinks provided by the club.

Also, for all dues paying members, Kings Mazda is offering discounts of 18% for all OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer's) parts and accessories and $20 off of the standard service technician's (mechanic's) hourly rate, which is over a 20% discount, while any aftermarket work is discounted 10%.

All participating club members for this event have been entered into Kings Mazda database, and a list of all paid up club members as of June has been submitted to Kings for service and parts discount purposes. So please take advantage of this offer!

Thank you Kings Mazda for the great event, service and parts discount!

Kirk Hodulik

11/14/2010 - Car Museum Drive Recap

We left The Original Pancake House in West Chester on Friday, November 12, with 4 Miatas, 3 MINIs, 1 BMW and 1 Porsche. We added a Miata in Hamilton for a total of 19 people in 10 cars. When we got to the Auburn Inn, we added two people in a Jeep. Supper was at Auburn’s Town Tavern, followed by videos at the Inn. On Saturday, all 11 cars motored to the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Museum – an elegant showplace for colorful, elegant cars. We lunched at Sandra D’s, then walked back to the same parking lot, shared by the National Auto and Truck Museum of the U.S. (NATMUS). This museum is an eclectic collection of vehicles – cars, trucks, motorcycles – in an old factory – not elegant but interesting. Eight cars continued on to Dearborn. Dinner on Saturday was at Edison’s in the Dearborn Inn. On Sunday, the remaining eight cars drove about ½ mile to The Henry Ford. What a museum! Cars, trucks, trains, planes, furniture, agriculture equipment, steam-powered generators, clocks, jewelry, silver and pewter – and that’s just in the Museum building! At this point, the group separated, each car returning home on its own schedule.

10/21/2010 - October Tid Bits

We had a good turn out for last nights meeting.

John & Teri, Mike & Kimberleigh, Tim & Bobbi, George & Cathy, Jon & Lori, Paul & Carol, Ken & Chris, Kirk, Rose, James Vornberger, Tom Draper, Alan Schutte, Marcia Jones and new members Mary & Marvin Manska for a total of twenty two in attendance.

After some Yummy Snacks from Chic-fil-a and lots of chatting we opened the meeting with an up-date of the Auburn Museum road trip from Bobbi Ross. Right now we have Tim, Bobbi, John, Teri, Alan, Marcia and Dave Gasper signed up from our club and there are a number of Minis going. We also have one Z4 going. This will be a flexible trip allowing for a one or two night stay depending on your level of interest. The second night will involve a drive to Dearborn and a visit to the Ford Museum on Sunday. If you would like to join us, there is still room at both of the Hotels. (Auburn Inn for Friday night and the Dearborn Inn for Saturday night.) But you do need to make a decision soon and get those reservations made by Monday or Tuesday of next week. Then let Bobbi know so she can adjust some lunch and dinner reservations she has made. Check you emails from last month for details that Bobbi sent to everyone or call myself or Bobbi if you need assistance with anything.

The venue for the November was identified and will be held at the home of Michael and Kimberleigh Szaz. Detail are forthcoming…..including directions.

The venue for the Club Christmas Party was finalized and will be held at the home of Marcia Jones. Details are forthcoming……including directions. Be sure to get those “White Elephant” gifts identified and we are all hoping for a repeat by Angie Sabet; who kept every body in stitches with her great sense of humor.

A Calendar Planning Meeting was added for the last weekend in January and will be held on a Saturday around 4:00PM to allow lots of people to attend. We will identify and post to the 2011 calendar as many events as we have ideas for. So, start writing down all those fun things you’ve enjoyed over the years as well as activities you think you would enjoy doing with this group.

We ended the meeting with a discussion regarding the succession of the current Board of Directors and Club Officers. If you have any interest in participating in the leadership and would like to provide direction for our events and activities please drop me a note with your thought.

John Haas

9/13/2010 - MMGXI in St Louis

They can't catch the Reds but they hit this one out of the park! : )

The event was outstanding from the beginning-hotel welcomed you with big,fat,warm chocolate chip cookie!-to the end. Instead of a park everything was staged from the hotel-and they were able to negotiate a really great price because of it. We had the whole back parking lot with washing station available all week end. The group picture, car show and Funcana were all set up in the lot. We had 2 2010 Miatas to drive in the Funcana and it was a blast. There was a Hospitality Suite with cold water, candy and snacks all the time as well as plenty of big round tables so folks could socialize. (and we made good use of it!)

The drives were broken into categories-Leisurely, Spirited and my favorite-Zoom Zoom! There were self guided tours to wineries, a Landmark Rally, a Scavenger Hunt and lots of awards including Best Engine Bay, Best Vanity Plate, Best Paint, Best Stock Na,NB,NC and then 1st,2nd 3rd in each generation. Best in Show was a gorgeous Stormy Blue with matching trailer and custom pin striping. There were several drives to Ted Drewes Frozen Custard-only found in St. Louis-think DQ but better!!! Who knew St Louis had MANY roads to rival out favorites in KY? On the Zoom Zoom Drive we did 90 miles of twisties with 3 pace car slow downs and a bio break and 13 Miatas in 2 HRS! : D Sunday morning there was a drive to Grant's Farm, owned by the Busch family and where they raise their famous draft horses. And of course at the hospitality tent there was free beer from 8 draft selections. : D

The weather was rainy from Louisville to St Louis on Friday but then only rained at night and was warm and sunny all day.

The Dayton club has expressed interest in doing the event next year and I was talking to some folks from Chicago about the following year. WooHoo! Rose and Ginny had a blast and I'm sure Tim and Bobbie enjoyed themselves too. Wish a lot more of you could have made it-it was outstanding.

Rose

PS Pics will be posted at gatewaymiataclub.com

9/10/2010 - MMG 11

The 2010 MMG will be in St Louis, Mo!!! The dates are 9/10-9/12/10. Make your plans now as I am sure this will be a great event!

http://www.mmgxi.com

6/21/2010 - Miata MX5 video featuring Jon Roberto cameo

6/13/2010 - Concours d'Elegance

Saturday's rain of 3 inches produced flooding, puddling and soft ground every where but Ault Park (almost).

17 Miata's with drivers and guests totaled 34 people to attend the ninth or tenth year at the midwest Concours supreme. The sun rose with sunshine and that is what we had all day long with temperatures in the mid to upper 80"s. Yes, it was hot but not wet. The Vintage Beach Cars and Alfa celebrations were great. The prestige coach cars of Packard, Cord, Rolls Royce and Cadillac never seems to fade in popularity. And then there are Ferrari's, Porsche, Lamborghini and Maseratti. Deep pockets would get you any model you want. The old Ford's and Plymouths with wooden wheels were right close to the art show of the day which drew a lot of attention.

A cold beer and a met were a welcome pause to sit in the shade. Thanks to everyone who signed up and showed up. Our parking coral space was great. The committee has done a nice job giving each year's show a few tweaks to improve on what was thought to be under total control and this year was no exception.

Thank you everyone who made this a fun day in the park. See you next year......

Tom Arnold

10/7/2009 - MMG Pix

Check out all the great pictures on the MMG website! miatagathering.com
Thanks to the committee for all your hard work-it was a great event!!!

Rose

9/15/2009 - Tom O and Auto X

Let me add that I had Tom ride with me as an instructor at an SCCA event and he is fantastic! I took about 30 seconds off my time!!! Then I got to ride with him in his car-I can't see ahead as fast as he can drive : D If you get the chance, definitely take advantage of his expertise. (Dad isn't too bad either!)

Since the apple doesn't fall very far from the tree CONGRATULATIONS to both Tom and Joe on this latest achievement.

Rose

9/10/2009 - Tom O'Gorman takes 6th in E stock at SCCA Solo National Championship

Club member Tom O'Gorman, age 17, ran in his 1st SCCA solo National Championship and took 6th place out of 42 drivers in E Stock. Tom was driving an MR2 and was just .48 seconds behind 1st place in class. The event was in Lincoln Nebraska and had over 1200 competitors competing in the weeklong event.

Sign up for the Autocross on 10/11 on the events page and look for Tom at the event(where he will be driving his Miata...)
. He will be happy to instruct club members how to get the most of their Miata on an autocross course.

- Proud dad -

Joe O'Gorman

8/19/2009 -

Miata mountain Mania 2O1O
Website is up and running
Check it out
www.westpennmiataclub.com/mania1O.html

7/12/2009 - British Car Day

Twelve people arrived at 8:00 to consume a high calorie, high sweet breakfast at the Original Pancake House at Union Center Blvd exit off I-75. There was a lot of swapping and sharing of waffles, pancakes and other deluxe pastries (before any bites were taken of course.

At nine o'clock, Mr. Garmin led us using John Haas' Red Gem for a smooth ride from the pancake house to the park. $5 got us into the event at Willam Harbin Park which is very nice. They had a quasi corral set for us which was also very nice. Mike Lukey (former rex of the GCMC) joined us in his BMW 330ci (convertible) as did Greg Bodenburg in his Mini. Jon and Lori Roberto (newly weds) got up early to venture out in their British Mini.

Anyway, we walked as a group and saw a lot of very nice Triumphs, MG's, DeLorean, Jaguar, Morgan's and several other sports types. In my opinion, we have pretty darn nice vehicles that shine, run and stand tall in design and performance.

Join us next year for sure.....

Tom Arnold
Correspondent

5/24/2009 - Autocross Photos

For the first Autocross of the season, the Miata club was well represented by 10 Miatas and 1 Crown Victoria (Crown Victoria was piloted by Ken Bogart's 16 year daughter, epitomizing the true spirit of this "Driver Education" event).

See Autocross Photos.

A big thank you to Michael Szaz for acting as club photographer!

p.s. The Big Red Sled was a blast to drive and put quite a few car to shame!

5/15/2009 - GCMC TO HOST MMG X REGISTRATION NOW OPEN!

We are excited about the plans for this event which was started by Jon Roberto and Chris Reiff in 1999. From a small gathering at Sharon Woods the event has grown into a regional event that attracted over 160 Miatas in Indy and has other clubs asking to host it!!!!

This years venue will be Kincaid Lake State Park in Falmouth, Ky. Come join us for a great event!

We will need a lot of help to pull this off and will be calling on members to assist us in planning and producing MMG X. If you can help please let one of us know-otherwise we'll be calling you!!!!!

www.MiataGathering.com

3/20/2009 - Annual Club Dues are due 4/1/09

Remember - club dues for all members are due on April 1st. You can use the handy PayPal payment or To pay your membership fee by mail, please send a $20 check to:

Greater Cincinnati Miata Club
8216 Princeton-Glendale Rd
PMB #164
West Chester, OH 45069-1675.

Joe

12/13/2008 - Club Christmas Party

What a fun time! Great food and white elephant gifts! For the sesond year in a row, gifts went home from where they came...we shall not release names to protect the innocent! We do have a pool going on for next years exchange to see if we have a trifecta!

11/27/2008 - Bluegrass Motorsports Update

I added 3 pictures in the photo gallery of the latest progress of MMGX.

Enjoy!

John

10/18/2008 - MMG X Volunteers needed!

At our meeting Thursday night, a number of people stepped up to volunteer to work the MMG next year. Keep in mind if you volunteer, concessions will be made towards registration fees.

This will be a big event and Jon Roberto and myself have already had people contacting us to register. We WILL sell out quickly! Any help will be greatly appreciated. We will also have a pre-registration for our club to assure you have a spot in the MMG next year. This will be an event not to miss! You will not need a rollbar for your car, but if you do plan on driving the road course, helmets are required. We are going to set up a special purchase though the Blugrass Motor Sports Club if you are interested.

We will have monthly planning meetings starting in a couple weeks. Please email Jon Roberto or Rose GotaMiataSky if you are interested.

Zoom-Zoom,

John Watson
President, GCMC

9/28/2008 - MMG 2008 a huge success!

WOW! Our sister club in Indianapolis did a great job! For those of you who did not make it, you really missed a great event! The highlight of the weekend was driving our cars on the "Indianapolis Race Track" to have our individual photo's taken crossing the "Bricks" at the finish line. Getting there was also a thrill. The entire group of 150 participants Que'd up at the venue hotel and had a Motorcycle Police Escort to the track. The Police shut down I-70 and I-465 to accomodate our three mile long procession. Driving down the strait-a-way to the finish line is a rush!

We announced that we will be hosting next year’s event over Labor Day weekend at the Bluegrass Motorsports Club. Jon Roberto and Rose Gontkovsky have volunteered to chair the event. We will need many volunteers to pull this off. Please contact Jon or Rose if you are interested in contributing. The more volunteers we have, the better the event will be. Judging by the turnout we had this year, we might be looking at close to 200 cars!

Anyone having photo's that they would like to add to the club web-site, please do so. Contact Ken Bogart if you need some expert help getting them from your camera to the photo board.

Pictures Taken by the Indianapolis club photographer can be viewed on the MMG site, after October 15th. (they need a little break from all the hard work they put into this years event):

http://www.miatamg2008.com


Zoom Zoom!

John

8/21/2008 - August Club Meeting Minutes

What a wonderful night and venue for our meeting! I lost track of just how many we had, but this is the largest group I have seen at a club meeting! We had a sprinkle of new members and seasoned members with new Miatas!

If anyone has not checked out Warner's in Ft. Thomas, you need to get there and eat on the huge outdoor patio before it gets too cold.

A few notes from the meeting: John Haas informed us that there are 4 rooms left for the fall Deals Gap Trip October 24th-26th. The rooms will be offered at a discount rate through the club at Fontana Village. There are numerous offers through the club and on the Fontana web site...the should be a great foliage season with all the rain we have had.

Next we discussed getting ready for this years MMG. We will have a detail/dent removal party with the location TBD. Jon Roberto went to a professional car detailing meet and will share his knowledge with us at the party. This will take place September 20th and we will make it a covered dish event.

Finally...we discussed MMG X! We are excited about possibly hosting the 10th anniversary of the event at the new Bluegrass Motorsports Club. Kurt Niemeyer, VP of sales for the Club and Miata owner, gave a presentation on the club and what they have to offer. I f we can pull this off, we might even trump this years event. If you are interested in serving on the planning committee, please let us know! Kurt offered to take us down for a tour of the Bluegrass Motorsports Club...an event has been added for 8/30 to tour the facility!

Lets enjoy the last days of summer with the tops down and shiny side up!

Zoom-Zoom

John

8/5/2008 - Wedding Bells are ringing!

Our own Mike "Poppadent" Harris will be marrying Sarah "Mommadent" Johnston this Sunday, August 10th in North Carolina. We wish them the best!

They are registered at Wal-Mart and JC Penney if anyone would like to give a gift. We will have a small reception at a future meeting for Mike & Sarah.

Congratulations Mike & Sarah!...we will take a rain check on that bachelor party! LOL

John

7/21/2008 - MATG XII Travel Plans

Here are our plans for going down to the Gap this weekend. We are headed out early and leaving this Thursday morning July 24th. Anyone that wants to go at the last minute, feel free to join us. I am sure we can find lodging of some sort...it sounds like there has been a lot of cancellations according to Fontanna...I am sure $4 gas has nothing to do with this!

Here we go:

Leave from the Bob Evans Restaurant on Pheiffer Road/I-71 in Blue Ash, OH. Meeting at 8:00 for breakfast and leaving no later than 9:00 AM.

The loose itinerary will take us to Portsmouth via 32/247/41/125/52 and on to Ashland to pick up 23 south all the way to Erwin, Tennessee where we will overnight at the Holiday Inn Express.

You can make reservations by calling Melissa a t 1-423-743-4100 and tell her you are with the GCMC (Greater Cincinnati Miata Club) for the rate of $ 83.68. (Normally $ 91.00)

Day two is still up in the air but can go two ways. One will take us to Grandfather Mountain on the Blue Ridge Parkway and over the Linn Cove Viaduct for another eight hour day of driving. Option 2 would head South to Asheville to pick up the Blue Ridge Parkway and on the Fontanna Village in 4-1/2 to 5 hours in lieu of the eight hour trip to Grandfather Mountain. It’s drivers choice.

The weather looks nice and it sounds like thus far we have a caravan of 6 Miatas and 1 Mini coming along. Call me at 513-604-6353 with any questions.

Zoom Zoom!

John

7/18/2008 - Monthly Meeting minutes.

We had a nice turnout for the meeting! I was happy to see a mix of new members and the usual crew!

We discussed our trip to the Gap next weekend. Anyone still wanting to go is welcome to join us. A couple of us are going to double up on rooms so we will have extra lodging available at Fontanna Village. We will be leaving early Thursday July 24th and take the back roads down and eventually getting to Fontanna via the Blue Ridge Parkway. Please email me if you have questions or want to go.

I thank everyone who has been stepping up for drives. Anyone organizing and leading a drive will get a $25 gas card. That is worth its weight in gold these days!

Greg Braun also informed me he runs an auto parts store. They just bought out a chain that deals with import parts so feel free to contact him with your parts needs...we will get something in the resources section of the website.

Zoom Zoom!

John

7/8/2008 - MMG Cancellation Policies....waiting list

The Indy Club be doing a drawing after the deadline for cancellations, which is July 31st. There have been just a few thus far...

If anyone wishes to be on the wait list you should contact the Event Chairperson, Gary Colling, by going to the Schedule of Events page and scrolling to the bottom of the page where you'll find a link to Gary's email.

http://miatamg2008.com/

7/3/2008 - Tom O'Gorman takes 1st in STS2 at the SCCA Nationals in Peru, IN

Tom O'Gorman took 1st place the STS2 class in a 90 Miata at the SCCA National solo event in Peru, IN. on 6/29. Tom represented the Cincinnati region of the SCCA and the Greater Cincinnati Miata Club. Tom was co-driving a car owned bt Geoff Chambers of the Indy SCCA region. Geoff took second place at the event.

Tom is a Junior at St. Xavier High School with a strong interest in racing. This was his 1st national event and the 1st place win earned him prize money from Bridgestone and Mazdaspeed.

6/8/2008 - Concours de Elegance...One HOT Event!

Sunday in Ault Park was really great. We had 19 cars and 32 people come
along in a parade through Hyde park and into Ault Park with our lights on
and horns a tootin'. Our parking space was perfect being right across from
the south entrance. Our Miata's were lined up for all to see as they entered
the show area. Mike Harris, Mr. Poppadent, came along with his wife in their
newly acquired 1992 white NA. He found himself a find specimen for $1,000.

The Concours show was filled with classics, pre war sports cars,
motorcycles, American muscle cars and an unusual display of real mini cars.
These little gems are single passenger for the most part specialties. One
model, made by Vespa, reminded John Haas to have had one of these as his
first car. He loved the open roof which made for easier newspaper delivery
being able to throw right or left.

One very popular touring car was a 1918 Buick that was straight from the
barn. This car was in pretty sad show condition, but it's motor purred like
a Rolls Royce. The engine has no valve cover, so when running, the rocker
arms are rockin' in plain sight. The owner fit the part in his Levi bib
overhauls, white shirt, bow tie and narrow rim bowler hat. What a sight!

The sun was hot, but a nice breeze made it tolerable. There was ample shade
to be found within the show and along the woods behind our parking coral.

Thanks to everyone for adding to the fun, and to those who couldn't make it,
there is always next year.

Tom Arnold

6/3/2008 - Blue Ridge Parkway Closures

FYI......Thanks Vic M!

More closures of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Closures can be fast-changing and are updated on the BR park information line at (828) 298 0398.

NORTH CAROLINA

Milepost 367.6 to 355.3 – Asheville Area

A rockslide and roadway failure has closed the Parkway to all activities including foot traffic and bicycling between the entrance to Craggy Gardens Picnic Area and the entrance to Mt. Mitchell State Park. The picnic area is accessible driving north from the Asheville area and the state park is accessible via the NC Highway 80 entrance to the Parkway. This road closure will remain in effect until late spring 2009.

Milepost 285.5 to 291.8 – Boone/Blowing Rock Area

Goshen Creek Bridge repair has closed the Parkway between US Route 421 east of Boone, NC and US Route 321 south of Boone. The detour will begin for visitors traveling south at milepost 285.5, Bamboo Gap. Visitors will follow state road (SR) 1514 Bamboo Road to Deerfield Road, following the detour signs along US Route 321 south of Boone then connecting back to the Parkway at milepost 291.8.

Visitors traveling north will begin the detour at milepost 291.8, intersection US Route 321; follow the detour signs along US321 to state route 1514 Deerfield Road to Bamboo Road which will bring them back to the Parkway at milepost 285.5. The total detour is estimated to be approximately 8 miles. Bridge repair is anticipated to be complete by late December 2008.

Milepost 223-225 – Near NC/VA Line

Pine Creek Bridge repair has closed the Parkway just south of the Cumberland Knob Developed Area, milepost 217.5 and US Highway 21 at milepost 229. The detour will begin for visitor traveling south, at milepost 221.8, NC state road (SR) 1461, Saddle Mountain Church Road and follow the detour signs to Glade Valley Road, then on to Shaw Town Road and then on to Mountain View Road connecting back to the Parkway at milepost 226.3.

Visitors traveling north the detour will begin at milepost 226.3, NC-SR1433, Mountain View Road following the detour signs to Shaw Town Road, then turning on to Glade Valley Road connecting with Saddle Mountain Church Road that will bring you back to the Parkway at milepost 221.8. Bridge repair is anticipated to be complete by early October 2008.

VIRGINIA

Milepost 105.8 – 112.2 – Roanoke Area

Beginning in January 2008 and continuing until December of 2008, the Parkway between US 460 and VA Route 24 in Roanoke will be intermittently detoured/closed for repairs to the Glade Creek bridge. These closure will be in place between 9:30 PM and 5:30 AM and visitors will be made aware of the closures through local media and signs. The Parkway will remain open during the daytime hours, although with intermittent one lane closures.

5/25/2008 - Happy Memorial Day!

I just wanted to wish everyone a Happy Memorial Day! It is time to reflect on why we enjoy our liberties and who afforded us our freedoms. Take the time to thank you local veterans...and to the many veterans in our club...this day is for you because of you!

Just a reminder that the Blue Ash Parade is tomorrow. The weather looks great and we will be done around noon. For those interested, we will be going to The Root Beer Stand afterwards. We will meet at the parking lot of BW3s on the corner of Reed Hartman and Glendale Milford Rd across from the Blue Ash Airport no later than 9:30.

Please register of give me a call if you have any questions!

John

http://cincimiata.com/Event_View.asp?id=237

5/18/2008 - Spring Clean 2 a Great Success!

The rain held off and the sun came out for a wonderful afternoon. A huge thank you to Steve & Lynn Mokrovich for being such generous hosts! They went over and beyond to make everyone welcome!

Mike Harris & family was there doing what he does best. It is always great to see the reaction of someone who sees Mike do his craft for the first time...Steve was amazed! He had on little ding taked out on his 2003 Special Edition.

Bryan Wyatt revealed "The Tick" for the first time. He probably has the rarest car in the club...a 2002 Laser Blue that less than 150 were made. The car was an internet order only car along with the Vivid Yellow.

Andy MacKay showed off his freshly painted 94R, Allen & Mary Shutte showed off their new beautiful Black Cherry, Dave & Alice Seeger was there with thier prestine 1990 red...if you have not had a chance to hear the story on the car, ask Dave...amazing! Rose was ther with Mimi...and we have photgraphic proof that she was detailing and even turning wrenches...or screwdrivers, on her own car!

Fun was had by all! For all those who need work from Mike let me know and I will arrange a date at some park in Loveland.

Thanks again to Steve & Lynn!

Zoom Zoom,

John Watson

5/17/2008 - Meijer 300 at KY Motor Speedway June 14th 8:30pm

I ran across a friend last night who has a block of tickets to the Meijer 300. There is a pre-race concert by Smashmouth.

The tickets are in GS6 (turn 4) rows 16-18.

Tickets are $20 each. (face price is $60!)

Call Angie 513-265-9558.


John Watson

5/12/2008 - Club Meeting & Rescheduled Spring Cleaning Party this week!

Thursday May 15th 7pm:

Club Meet & Greet @ Warners in Ft. Wright.

Come meet your fellow Miataphiles and share ideas & stories. Jon Roberto will be running the meeting. If you have anything you would like to talk about feel free to bring it up at the meeting. Summer is upon us and it is top down weather!

Saturday May 17th 4pm:

Spring Clean 2

OK...we will try it again...weather looks good, so far! Steve & Lynn Mokrovich will host the event at their home...953 Riverwatch Dr, Villa Hills, KY 41017. Please bring your cleaning supplies and sign up on the web site so we have enough dogs and burgers.

We invite everyone to bring a dish or drink. (New guidelines started by Rose will be observed......NA's to bring appetizers, NB's will do Side Dish's and NC's will do deserts but remember, that this is optional, not required for admission.)

Sunday May 18th 5:30pm:

QSL Car Show

QSL in Milford runs a car show every Sunday night. I figured this would be a good way to show off our clean cars. There is a DJ and door prizes. The event is open to all sports cars. QSL has excellent wings & burgers also as an added benefit!

5/3/2008 - CANCELLED! Spring Cleaning Party

Based on the weather forecast - we will be cancelling the party tonight.

4/26/2008 - Live Strong Rally Sunday April 27th

Sunny, 70 and an event to help fight cancer! Jon Roberto and I have both lost parents to cancer so we both feel very strongly about this cause. I met Lance Armstrong in 2000 in Houston when my mom was dying of cancer. He stopped what he was doing and pulled me aside when I told him about mom. He took the time to have an aid go to his car, get a book and wrote a lenghty note to mom in the cover of his book. He is a real class act!

Now for the fun stuff...meet at Kohls 6580 Harrison Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45247 by 10am. This rally will be a follow-directions and answer-questions type. We will be driving on the very Miata friendly roads on the West Side of town. The meeting spot is to be determined. Entry fee is at least $20 per car. I encourage you to donate more to this great cause. There will be prizes to be awarded at the end of the rally. You don't need a co-pilot but it will make it much easier if you do. Clipboard and pen is also helpful to have.

We will end up and Jon Robertos house and cook out some dogs and hand out prizes to the winners.

If you cannot make it and want to donate to the cause, please follow the link below. All donations and entrance fees for this event will be tax deductable! If you have not signed up and plan on attending, please let Jon Roberto know at 513-295-3332.


Hope to see everyone there!

John Watson


www.livestrong.org/grassroots2008/rallyforhope

4/6/2008 - Impromtu Drive

Meet at Willy's in Covington at 1:30 for a run to Rabbit Hash. Download directions from the drive section here on the website. See you then!

Rose

3/29/2008 - March Madness Drive

We stole a day from a long winter!

Bob Mackey celebrated a birthday and showed off his new ride.

Rose celebrated her last weekend as President...will she pardon anyone???

Farzin decided he did not like his front license plate and ditched it.

Tom O'Gorman paced us in his Civata.

Terri Frazier got jumped...her battery was dead!

So goes life as the Miata turns!

Terri has stepped up to do a drive already!

We will be handing out $25 gas cards again this year to drive leaders.

Sign up for the, "Drive the Speedway Drive!" It is not every day you can get your car out on a professional race track!

3/20/2008 - March Meeting

What a great turnout at Max & Erma's for our meeting on the First Day of Spring!!! We welcomed new member Dave Thomas and celebrated Andy Mackay finally becoming a proud Miata owner!!

Board of Directors for the GCMC for the coming year are Jon Roberto, Joe O'Gorman, Bruce Fahey, John Haas and Kirk Hodulik. Officers will be elected shortly-let Jon know if you can serve as President.

We decided that we DO want to host the 10th Annual Midwest Miata Gathering in '09 and are beginning to explore some venues and dates.

We do have enough orders to get the discount on the Cool Breeze Scoops.
If anyone is interested in one please let me know ASAP. I will place the order next week.

Zoom Zoom

Rose

3/17/2008 - Miata Magazine Revived! aka Forever MX-5

http://www.forevermx5.com/

Forever MX-5 Magazine, 1-Year (4-issues) USA: $19.99
Forever MX-5 Magazine, 2-Year (8-issues) USA: $36.99

Forever MX-5 Ships Debut Issue
Redmond, Wash. (PR WEB) March 17, 2008 – The first issue of Forever MX-5 Magazine is bundled up and in the hands of the United States Postal Service for delivery to subscribers across America and around the globe. The all-new independent MX-5 Miata enthusiast publication represents the long-awaited revival of Miata Magazine.

1/17/2008 - First Meeting of the Year

We had a lot of enthusiasm for the upcoming year and got some new events on the schedule. We welcomed new members Teresa Gobble and Paul Wylie.

Mike Benzinger, who was not in attendance, has volunteered to be the Drive Director for the upcoming Season. He will replace John Watson who did a great job last year but is expecting to be moved out West shortly.

Jon Roberto and John Haas are going to put together a Hometown Rally which sounds like a blast. Watch the schedule for this one to be added.

Board member elections will be in March-the current candidates are Jon Roberto, Bruce Fahey, Joe O'Gorman, Kirk Hodulik and John Haas. The new Board will elect the Officers to take over in April. If you are interested in serving on the Board or as an Officer please contact myself or Jon Roberto. I will not be continuing as President so we definitely need someone to fill that position. : )

Paul Wylie told us of an event being sponsored by his 101st Airborne group and Joe O'Gorman will be attending one of their meetings to see how we can be involved. It is on the schedule as the Poker Run on May 10. Watch the event calendar for more details.

It looks like another great driving year and I for one am looking forward to some impromtu "Hey it's 75 and sunny in March let's drive" drives!!!

Zoom Zoom

Rose

12/16/2007 - ANOTHER GREAT PARTY!

We weren't "top down" like last year but at least the snow held off so we could all gather at the home of Shirley Bennett last night for the Christmas/Holiday Party. As usual there was a LOT of good food, Mojitos by Tim and Bobbi and we even had entertainment from budding rock star, Nick Sabet! Santa (also known as Tim Ross!) had a Car Tunes cd for everyone.

The creativity of the White Elephant gifts continues. In two years we'll probably be seeing the "lovely" paper mache bowl (can't get it wet!)the decorated bird cage and the computer that Farzin had under the tree but his son picked as his gift!!! The rapping Penguin was hilarious but the gift of the evening was one that Jon Roberto found on a website called "roastmyweenie.com". We're not sure how he found that website??? : D Check out the pictures for all the fun.


THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU to Shirley for hosting the event.

Farzin and Angie Sabet will be hosting the party next year! As soon as we get a date I'll get it on the event calendar. Try not to miss it!!

Best Wishes to all of you for a wonderful Holiday Season!!

Rose

10/27/2007 - Fall Farm Drive

A big thanks goes out to Gary Peacock for hosting a great drive on Sunday. The colors of the trees, the quaint little towns, the awesome food, and the yummy ice cream all made for a great day. We could not have asked for better weather. The Rothchild Raspberry Farm was very cool. You could pet goats, shop for great stuff, and eat some really great food. We stopped by Young’s Dairy and topped off the day with some awesome ice cream.

We had 8 cars in our group. It was very manageable. We had 3 new members join our drive and Sandy even let Herb drive her car yesterday. She must love him. HA!

For those who missed this even, you really missed a great time.

Jon

10/14/2007 - Sauerkraut Festival Drive

What a beautiful day for a Miata drive! THANKS to Gary Peacock for leading us from Quaker Steak and Lube to Waynesville on some really nice back roads. Once we got to the festival everyone seemed to head for the food : ) I've never seen so many craft vendors-not so much about sauerkraut anymore! It actually got hot and the top down drive home felt really good. Sure hate to see this weather end-hopefully it will hold out for one more week and Gary's Fall Foliage Drive next Sunday!!!

Rose

10/13/2007 - Girl's Drive

Hey Mary Beth-great job leading your first drive. We started with breakfast at the Breakfast Club in Lebanon then took some really nice back roads to the Jeffersonville Outlet Mall. It was a little chilly in the morning but warmed up nicely as the day went on. After shopping and a late lunch we headed back. We're already thinking about where to go next year!!!

Rose

10/2/2007 - Friday Night Drags!

A big thanks goes out to Mike Benzinger for hosting his first event. Only 3 cars showed up but one of them was Glenn Smith. This was his first event that he was able to attend. He had his red '99 that he bought in December. Glenn crews for the Doran Race Team so maybe he can be of help at a shadetree event.

The roads to Edgewater were short but amazing. If you haven't been on Buffalo Ridge Rd. you need to. It is a roller coaster.

We met up with 3 other Miata owners at the track. They were surprised to see other Miatas at the track. I am just getting my hearing back today. ;o)

Mikey B....you did good!

Jon Roberto

9/20/2007 - Club Meeting

THANKS to Jon Roberto for hosting the meeting. We rehashed the MMG and discussed upcoming plans for this event in the future. We also talked about adding some drives to the schedule for the remainder of the year. We should have some good driving weather left : )

We are still looking for a host/hostess for the annual Christmas Party. The date is on the schedule and we are looking into some options for where to have it. Any volunteers?

Our annual club Gap trip will be in the Fall next year-Oct 24-26. We will need to get reservations early and John Haas is working on that with Fontana Village. This should be a gorgeous time of year to be down there-combining our Fall Foliage drive with our Gap trip : )

Keep checking the schedule for events.

Rose

9/9/2007 - MMG

The 8th MMG is history-and what a good time-especially for us Cincinnati folks who only had to show up and enjoy!!!

CONGRATS to Jon Roberto who won the President's Award for his car and the coolest door prize-an autographed copy of the History of the Miata. Look for it on his coffee table at our September meeting : )

THANKS to the Louisville club for stepping up and providing another opportunity for Miata folks to gather and enjoy this car we all love. There were 129 participants and 80 cars making this year the biggest ever!! Churchhill Downs was wonderful-food, drink, horses, the Museum and of course, Miataphiles. I missed the Makers Mark tour but heard it was lot of fun. The rain held off until Sunday and there was a lot of sun and heat on Sat-especially in the Car Show : ) I went on both drives and really enjoyed them-nice roads and scenery. They were well organized too with their club members interspersed in the group. Check out the pix on our website and the www.miatagathering.com website.

Not sure where the event will be next year but you know we will keep you posted!!!

Rose

9/1/2007 - Pre MMG Detail Party

a HUGE thanks to Ken and Chris Bogart for hosting this well attended event. It was a perfect day for it and much "detailing" was accomplished. : ) As always it was great to see everyone. Pictures are in the Photo Gallery.

Rose

8/16/2007 - Club Meeting at Quaker Steak and Lube

First time I've dined under a car on a lift!! Thanks to all who came out.

Keep checking the event calendar for upcoming drives. We have a number of them being prepared for the latter part of the driving season. And there are always the impromptu drives-please contact John Watson if you'd like to do something either impromptu or scheduled.

WE NEED SOMEONE TO HOST THE ANNUAL CHRISTMAS PARTY-please contact me to volunteer. The club helps with the food cost and this is always a great time for everyone.

Club t shirts and hats are available for order through the Resource link here on the website. Anyone who hasn't gotten their new club logo sticker please see myself or John Watson or Jon Roberto at an event or meeting. We also have new club magnets for $5. We hope to have the new club banner for the MMG.

Don't miss the pre MMG shine Party at the Bogart's on 9/1. Be sure to sign up so we can plan for food.

Zoom Zoom

Rose

8/11/2007 - Backroads to Waynesville Drive

22 Miatas and 1 BMW gathered in West Chester to take a really nice drive to Waynesville. Lots of curves, sunshine and grins! We had several new and first drive members join us, I heard there was a deer siting up toward the front and no one got lost!! Andy still doesn't have a Miata but managed to keep up in his Buick-oops, BMW : D Of course we had lunch and then split up for shopping or heading back.

Thanks to Ken Bogart for organizing this one-he always does a great job of finding "Miata Roads". And thanks to John Watson's daughter Anna who rode with me and took all the pics!

We are planning a Girl's Drive-just a heads up for the ladies!!!

Rose

8/3/2007 - Drive in to Cruise In

Whew it was hot but we had a good turn out at Sonic for some food and socializing! Our newest member showed up on his motorcycle (no Miata yet!)and another potential member joined us to see what we are all about! Dan Mason then led us on a nice little drive to Milford for the Friday Night Cruise In. We lined up in the back of the lot and walked around looking at all the American cars. After we saw some other "foreign" cars we moved our babies to the front!

Ken Bogart's drive is this coming Sat. Ken knows some great roads so don't miss it. See you then!

Rose

7/31/2007 - Hot Rod Movie Screening

We had a good time getting together and seeing the movie Hot Rod. The movie was a Will Ferrell style comedy, it had its moments.

Jon Roberto won a prize for best convertible, Rose won a prize for best license plate and Kirk won a prize for best paint job. They all won a cool Hot Rod t-shirt!

Rose even recruited a new memeber that does not even have his Miata yet! See everyone Friday night at Sonic @7 pm in Mainville!

7/28/2007 - MATG XI

11 years, 11 miles was the theme this year. For the second year in a row the weather was hit or miss. We had a good time looking at all the different models from over the years. The Dragon was heavily patrolled because of wreckless driving in previous weeks, but there were plenty other roads just as challenging. Take a look at the pictures and make your plans for next year. The Dayton club had 13 cars attend...we can do better than that! The new lodging arrangements worked out great. We were able to eat in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge and still enjoy the NC roads. A special thanks to Bryan & Christie Wyatt for taking down the canopy & table so we could promote the MMG.

7/21/2007 - Vic Nelson's Deliverance to Freudenfest in Oldenburg, IN

On a wonderful Spring day in July we had 11 Miatas wagon train over some deep back roads to Oldenburg, IN. Vic did a wonderful job on his first drive with his navigator John Haas. Rose found a crown and I think almost everyone enjoyed some delicious corn on the cob and other treats. We even ran into a couple from the Indy club and saw a Pink Miata on the way back!

7/19/2007 - Club Meeting

We had a great turnout for our mid-summer meeting. Joe came with his hands full with our new hats, t-shirts and visor hats. All the new gear is very high quality and looks wonderful...thank you Joe!

Our calender is pretty full right now. The National Miata Gap trip is next weekend (July 27,28,29). If you want to go there are rooms available and we could always bunk up of offset gas prices. Please contact John Watson @ 513-604-6353 with any questions.

We also tenatively have 10 free passes (good for 2 people) for the premier of Hot Rod Tuesday, July 31. Please sign up on the web site if you are interested, first come first serve. There will be a car show prior to the movie and then free wings at Quaker Steak and Lube afterwards. The festivities start at 6pm at the theatres off Milford Parkway and 275.

We also discussed our fall driving season. It will kick off with the MMG September 7-9th in Louisville. This is usually the best attended event by the club and if there is one event to attend, this would be it. You can get more info at www.miatagathering.com . We are trying to arrange a detail party the weekend before (Labor Day Weekend). We discussed renting a shelter in Sharon Woods and inviting Mike and Reggie to assist us with detail/ding work. Of course there will be a cook out. I have the event on the web site so please sign up. I will be scouting shelters this week.

We had 2 ideas for fall drives. Gary peacock will lead a drive the the Renaissance Festival and Shirley suggested the Pumpkin Festival. We will coordinate schedules. I have not heard from Andy but I would assume we will also be doing the Valley Vinyards dinner again this year. I will update the site when we get a firm date. I will intermittendly put in some Friday night cruise in's. the first one will be at Sonic in Mainville August 3rd. I will try to coordinate with the Dayton club to do one in Middletown also.

We also will have the First Annual all Ohio Miata (OH-Miata) get together in Marietta Sept 29-30. I will have more detail after I talk to other clubs down at the gap next weekend.

Last but not least, we had a new member Sandy Teasdale join us. Sandy has a Forrest Green NB Special Edition. Welcome Sandy and all other new members. Come join us for an upcoming event.

John Watson

6/23/2007 - MX-5 Summerfest Report

Shirley and I were the only ones from the club who made the trek to Joliet, IL for, what it should have been called, MX-5 Rainfest. This was the first time for Shirley on a track so she got some classroom time. I put myself in intermediate so it was right out to the track for me. I really learned a lot on this outing. Threshold braking, finding the right lines, and if you want to go fast in the rain you need ABS and traction control, neither of which I had.

Everytime Shirley got done with her 20 min session she was all grins. Part of that might been because she had to follow her instructor around the track who was driving a black Lotus Exige. It looked like a mini Batmobile. Total time on the track was 120 mins. That is 40 mins more than last year.

This year this event was not as nice as last year. No marketing presentation, no free t-shirt, no free lunch, no big wig Mazda exec, no autocross, no real use of Mazda factory cars. It was basically tacked on to a lapping event that was being held by a private company called Laps, Inc. Was the event worth the $150? Oh yeah...we had a blast even though I spent most of the day on Sunday cleaning my Miata. There is nothing like the feeling of passing Porsches and Mustangs in your little roadster. Gotta love it!

Check out the pics in the photo gallery.

Jon Roberto

6/16/2007 - Drive-In

We had a caravan of 9 Miatas and chase support vehicles! The weather and movies were perfect. We again was asked if we belong to a car club...ok...we were in Amelia! LOL

6/10/2007 - Concours d' Elegance

Tom Arnold out did himself this year-our parking spot was PERFECT. We had 19 cars from our club and invited any Miata driving by to park with us-gaining us several new members and lots of attention. Hopefully this will be our new permanent spot : D THANKS TOM-and for the continental breakfast and "drooling" towels!

Joe O'Gorman had sample hats and t-shirts with our new logo and they are really NICE!! You'll be able to order them through the website soon. The magnets and decals are on their way too.

It was a beautiful day to walk around and look at the stunning cars-but difficult to make a decision on the People's Car Show choice you wanted. Film at 11 : D

View the Photo Gallery

Rose

6/8/2007 - The Root Beer Stand and Rusty Griswolds

The rain held off...sort of. We had some great food and then headed down the road for some deep fried twinkies & cheescake and some good music!

View the Photo Gallery

6/6/2007 - Midwest Miata Gathering

Just got back from Louisville and a meeting with the Bluegrass Miata Club who are hosting this year's event which is still being sponsored by our club. They have a really nice event planned with some different twists!! Friday night at Churchhill Downs looks to be the highlight of the event complete with thoroughbreds. They have some nice drives planned for Saturday as well as some different things for the Annual Car Show. The Saturday dinner sponsored by Mazda will be a Tailgate theme and they pkan to have a DJ at the venue for after dinner. What fun : )

PLEASE send in your registration as soon as possible so they know how many to plan for-and make your reservations-the hotel is really nice. All the rooms are suites, and they will have a car wash set up for us!!!!

Let's really support this event since we have very little to do but just show up and enjoy it : D

Rose

5/28/2007 - Blue Ash Parade

We braved the drizzle and made it through the parade top down. 9 Miatas represented the club. In between the drizzle storms we all wiped down our cars...it reminded me of the gap trip last July. We all laughed at ourselves until we looked behind us to see the Prowler club doing the same, we stopped, laughed and pointed. We were done by noon and cooking out by 1! John W

View the Photo Gallery

5/20/2007 - Gap Trip Proclaimed "Best In Years"!

We couldn't have asked for better weather-for a change NO RAIN! People arrived on Friday at different times but a group of us went to dinner at Lynn's and then made a stop at the grocery for campfire supplies. We headed back and had S'mores around the fire, accompanied by much hilarity.

John Watson put together a nice little drive for the folks who wanted to get an early start Sat morning, and then the whole group met in Robbinsville late morning. We avoided the Dragon due to an unprecendented number of motorcycles, and even bicycles, as well as Z's. Instead we did the Cherohala Skyway, had a group photo taken, stopped at the Cascades for lunch (how 'bout that BBQ Vic?) and then back on the Skyway. Shirley Bennett proved to be quite the driver, throwing her beautiful Winning Blue NC through the curves with the best of them! Turns out she learned to drive on those kind of roads. We got back to Fontana in time to make dinner reservations at the Lodge for the whole group and then on to another campfire.

It was a very relaxing and fun time with no mishaps, no breakdowns, no lost items-yes, Dave found his cell phone! Tom A, Ginny, John and Teri-we missed you!!

Thanks to John Watson and Jon Roberto for organizing and leading the drives.

View the Photo Gallery

5/15/2007 - Club Meeting

We had the meeting at a new location-Mio's in Anderson, and enjoyed the outside patio, cold beer and good Italian food.

Joe O'Gorman is still pursuing the logo hats and has some new options. There will be a survey through the website to get some feedback on preferred styles and colors and commitment and then we will place an order. Estimated cost will be in the $10 range.

Joe also reported that we have 58 members renewed at this point. We discussed some ways to increase membership and are looking into a "Recruitment Run". The Board also approved a free membership to all new Miata buyers through the local dealerships. John Watson will coordinate with the dealers.

We discussed events for the rest of the year. We have four more potential drive leaders and John will contact them to make arrangements and get them on the schedule. We also will be picking a date for a local Fall Foilage Drive.

Jon Roberto will be taking charge of all club meeting locations. Please coordinate with him if you are hosting a meeting so we can get the info on the schedule.

WE NEED SOMEONE TO HOST THE ANNUAL CHRISTMAS PARTY!!!!!! Contact John Watson to volunteer and set a date.

3 days 'til the Gap-WOOHOO.

Rose

5/13/2007 - AutoX results...and a new crowning of the

We had 10 club members plus a new potential member trump the field of 25 on a Sunday drive through the cones...and in some cases, over the cones!

We had 2 new nominees for "Cone Killer". Terri and Shirley both managed to drag a cone around the course. Since Terri really had hers jammed up under her car, I think she wins the title!

On a serious note. Ken Bogart showed what his coldside was capable of. He finished with the best Miata time of the day at 68.47. A very notable second was Tom O'Gorman (69.03). Tom has had his temps for less than a month and even beat dad. I think we are all in trouble here in the near future! Joe, can Tom borrow the car for Prom??? LOL

As for the ladies...Rose had stiff competition and proving the fruit does not fall far from the tree, Mary Beth O'Gorman finished first with a 71.02 second was Terri Frazier, cone and all, with a 74.67. Rose and Shirley Bennet rounded out the field.

We had 4 first timers who learned a lot. I invite Terri, Shirley, Tom and Ryan to share their experience with everyone.

Times:

Ken B 68.47 NA
Tom O 69.03 NB
Joe O 69.88 NB
Greg R 72.19 NA
Mike S 70.05 NC
Ryan C 72.44 NA

John W 75.00 Beetle Turbo S

Mary Beth 71.02 NB
Terri 74.67 NA
Rose 74.69 NA
Shirley 76.51 NC

The next AutoX is July 8th. Make your plans early!

View the Photo Gallery

5/12/2007 - Scrub and Grub

Papa John Haas and Teri did it asgain! What a wonderful time-perfect weather, great crowd, food and drink, new members, kids, dog and cats-we had it all-even Birthday Cake! Poppadent was there working his magic and Reggie did the buff and shine to perfection. See the photo gallery for the proof.

Thanks John and Teri for opening your home and getting us ready for THE GAP TRIP!!!

View the Photo Gallery

5/5/2007 - Cinco de Mayo Drive

The rain held off and Joe & Mary Beth O'Gorman led a nice spirited drive on the West Side of town. We had 12 people show and enjoy the twisties and avoid cornholes..oops, potholes! You know you are on the west side when you are asked multiple times if you are in some kind of club or sumthing. Just kidding, no offense to anyone who lives on the west side!.

Gary and Lea Peacock bought along a new potential member, Connie Steger. Connie was driving a beautiful Black Cherry NB. She was already talking about mods at the first break!

We ended up at Aculpucos for lunch which was very good! Note to self, order luch portion next time.

Thanks again to Joe and Mary Beth, excellent drive as always!

Remember next weekend is the shine party at the Haas's house and then Sunday is autocross. Two weeks from now is the annual Spring gap trip. If you want to go and need accomodations please let Rose or I know so we can try to accomadate.

View the Photo Gallery

John Watson
Cruise Director, Cougar Ace

4/22/2007 - Emergency Burger Drive

First real drive of the season and what a turn out.

Twenty three cars caravaned to Lebanon for Ice Cream.

View the Photo Gallery

Thanks to Tom and to all the new members who showed up! Anyone who volunteers to lead a drive will get a $25 gas card for scouting the route and a hat...this is for the first five signed up...I think we have 1 more spot left for the gas card and hat...one per member only.

3/29/2007 - Board Meeting

The Board met to appoint Officers for the coming year. They are:

President Rose Gontkovsky (I tried to resign and was told I have to serve until someone steps up to replace me or I sell my car-NOT going to happen!!!)

Vice President Jon Roberto
Treasurer Bruce Fahey
Membership Dir Joe O'Gorman
Drive Director John Watson

We are looking into new decals,magnets etc. AND we are having a new magnet made just for Drive Leaders, which will incorporate the very cool Tachometer logo. Sign up now to lead a drive : )

Thanks to John Haas and Kirk Hodulik for their past service as Officers.

Rose

3/15/2007 - And the winner is....

The Skyline Logo!!! The voting was really close but we have declared a winner and will be pursuing new car magnets, window decals and other items. It was a tough decision with such outstanding entries. Thanks to all who participated.

Also winners tonight are your Board members for the next year-effective immediately-Tom Arnold, Bruce Fahey, Rose Gontkovsky, Joe O'Gorman, Chris Reiff and Jon Roberto. The Board will be selecting the Officers for the coming year and announcing them at the April meeting.

Keep checking the website for updates on events. Hope to see you.

3/10/2007 - Cast Your Vote for Our Club Logo

Voting is now closed!

2/15/2007 - Club Meeting

Thanks to all the diehards who braved the weather to come out.

Please see the event schedule for changes and additions. If you would like to organize a drive please let me know-we are starting to fill up the calendar!

New by-laws have been approved by the Board and will be posted to this website.

It is again time to elect Board Members-please let Bruce Fahey know if you are interested in serving your club in this role.

We have been awarded $1000 from Mazda for the Midwest Miata Gathering, sponsored by our club and hosted by the Bluegrass Miata Club.

We reviewed the logo submissions and have selected 3 possibilities (one of them being the current logo). Final changes are being made and we hope to have them on this website for a vote by the end of the month. We will then announce the winner at the next meeting.

We will be reviewing possibilites for embroidered shirts, hats etc at the March meeting.

Don't forget the Accessories Party at Sweeney's on Sat 2/24-the club will provide pizza and pop so come on out and get ready for Spring and DRIVING!!!

Rose

1/18/2007 - Club Meeting

We had a great turnout for the first meeting of the year, including 2 new members!! We are up to almost 100 members now and look forward to seeing all of you at one event or another this year.

The Louisville Miata Club has committed to hosting the Midwest Miata Gathering this year and we expect it to be another great event. We are still waiting to hear from Mazda about our sponsorship application.

Jerry Jaspers reported that the Newsletter will be 4 times a year-Spring,Summer,Fall and Winter. The Board agreed to purchase an external hard drive that will house all the club information and can be passed on as necessary.

Chris Reiff has completed 5 drives to be posted on the website and will be working with Webmaster Ken Bogart to get them posted.

There are a couple of regional events being posted on the schedule-details will follow. One is 3/10 in Columbus and the other is a Fall Foilage trip 9/29-9/30 in Marietta.

The highlight of the meeting was the slide show put together by Tom Arnold. We relived some moments from the past driving season and then moved on to the 10 logo submissions. At the next meeting we will have the final presentations-anyone is welcome to submit one-then the plan is to have a poll on the website where everyone can vote for their favorite. The current logo will be included.

It won't be long 'til the Accessories Party which always seems to kick off our year-hope to see you there!!! And don't forget the next meeting-2/15 at Panera Bread at Union Centre.

Rose

11/16/2006 - Club Meeting

Thanks to all who came out on a cold and rainy night-is it Spring yet??? Highlights are:

The Louisville Club is considering hosting the MMG this year in conjunction with our club. We would handle advertising and door prizes. We have submitted the application for Mazda sponsorship and hope to hear soon that we again have their financial support.

We are going to pursue an updated Club Logo!! All you artists and designers (and anyone else who's interested) are asked to bring your design to the January club meeting. We are being given an anonymous donation to defray the costs associated with this change.

Anyone with ideas or suggestions for the newsletter are asked to submit your info or articles to Jerry at jerryjmx5@yahoo.com or to me at the_barwench@yahoo.com. We still hope to have the first newsletter sent out by the end of the year.

There is no December club meeting-see you at GoKarting or the Christmas Party!!!

Rose

10/18/2006 - Club Meeting

We had a great turnout for the meeting. It was good to see so many new faces!! Some highlights are:

We will be posting our club drives on this website. Anyone who has past drives, or anyone doing new drives, please forward a copy to Chris Reiff. He and Ken will get them on the website.

Be sure to update your member information on this website-we will be using that information for the newsletter which will be sent out quarterly. If you have any articles please forward them to Jerry Jaspers. The first newsletter will be out by the end of the year!!

The MMG was a financial success and we will be donating $750 to Hospice of Cincinnati in memory of Ruth Bowser.

There was a lot of discussion of the '07 MMG but nothing was decided. We are currently working with the Louisville Club to see about hosting a joint event. We'll keep this site updated.

Rose

9/18/2006 - MMG Photos are posted

There are several hundred photos posted on the MMG website under the photos link!

The Group Car photos can be viewed at the photographers website at Glutz Photography.

If you have photos to share, please send me an email.

9/8/2006 - Midwest Miata Gathering 2006

September 8-10th 2006

The event-The Wild, Wild (Mid)West, will be held at Steamboat Bend Shelter on the Ohio River. The Saturday night dinner, sponsored by Mazda, was a highlight of last year's event. We have the same caterer and will be doing a Texas BBQ-bring your western attire!!

Please register early to ensure that you receive the full event packet. All forms received by August 1, 2006 will be guaranteed to receive the event packet which includes the souvenir booklet and magnet. We will accept registrations at the pre-registration prices up to September 1, 2006 but cannot guarantee booklets after the August 1 deadline. As soon as we receive your registration we will send an acknowledgement as well as directions to the event hotel and venue.

Access the 2006 Midwest Miata Gathering website at:

http://www.miatagathering.com

9/2/2006 - Poppadent Party a success!

The clubs visit to Mike Harris's Poppadent shop was a big success. we had 25 cars come out and brave the rainy day for an opportunity to remove dents and dings from our beloved Miatas.

Here is a testimonial from a satisfied club member:

I haven’t had my Miata long and since I had purchased it on the “used” market it came with a collection of parking lot dents. Knowing how expensive it was to have these fixed at a body shop I had resigned to live with them. Also, when I went to the GAP with the club I watched another vendor try and remove some dents in a Miata and was very unimpressed with the work that guy did. However, after talking to some of the Cincy club members I decided to go out and see the work Mike Harris did. Last Saturday I was the first to arrive at his shop as I didn’t want to wait too long, behind what I was told was going to be a lot of club members who wanted Mike to work on their cars. Luckily, Mike opened his shop even earlier than he was supposed to. I was still skeptical about being able to get dents out without letting a “real” body shop do them. I told Mike of my experience at the GAP and my doubts. I was really impressed when Mike said that if I could see where a dent had been after he worked on it then he wasn’t doing his job. With that assurance I decided to let Mike do his thing. I am very happy to say that when Mike was done I could not tell where the dents had been. Wow I feel like a got a new car!!! Being so happy with Mike’s work, I had Reggie (detailing guy) buff out the hood and trunk lid – he also did a great job. To top off Mike and Reggie’s work, our club president, Mike Lukey pinstriped my car. What a great day --- thanks to Mike H, Mike L, and Reggie. Also, thanks to Rose who brought breakfast! What a great club!! I have included some pictures of Mike Harris and Reggie doing their thing.

Thanks,
Roger Corrado

5/10/2006 - Concours d’Elegance @ Ault Park

June 11, 2006, Concours d’Elegance @ Ault Park

The Cincinnati Miata Club will be afforded prime parking and show space at the 29th Annual Concours d’Elegance Show at Ault Park,
Sunday, June 11, 2006. The web site address for the show is www.cincyconcours.com

This will be the fifth year the club will awarded preferred parking and display space for the show, which opens to the public at 10:00 AM. The show runs until 4:00 PM. You can stay as long as you wish, so don’t think you are locked in until 4 o’clock. The entry ticket for our club members will be a reduced price of $15 per person versus the door price of $20. The show is organized for the benefit of The Arthritis Foundation.

You can pay me, Tom Arnold, at the show when you get your tickets.

It is very helpful to send me an email or call (numbers below) with a name and how many tickets you want so I am sure to have enough. My email address is: eta1@fuse.net

In years past we had a nice group attend. Although space is somewhat limited, we have space for 10-15 cars and can always squeeze in more if necessary. We plan to meet promptly at Panera Bread Company in Hyde Park Plaza at 3806 Paxton Ave. at 8:30 AM, as we must arrive at Ault Park at or before 9 o’clock. If you over sleep, get up and come on to Ault Park. We will be parking where Principio Ave intersects the circle around the main park and around the pavilion (show main entrance). This location is the center for the show featured car, this year being Italian Beauties.

Bring a chair(s), blanket, cooler or anything else to comfort your position.

Call Tom Arnold with questions/suggestions. 792-1190 (office) 321-9589 (home) 708-3850 (cell) eta1@fuse.net

4/2/2006 - Root Beer Drive

Check out the photo's from this impromtu drive in the Photo Galleries. What a great day. A perfect cure for "Cabin Fever".

Photo contributions from John Watson, Teri Haas and Joe O'Gorman.

3/31/2006 - Hard Top Hoist from Racer Chuck

Looking for that DIY project you'll be really proud of......take a look at the terrific Hard Top Hoist from Racer Chuck. Link below:

http://2cat.com/openroad/2002/june/page5.pdf

If anyone in the group attempts this.....send article and pics.

John (Not jon....or johnnymx5)

3/27/2006 - Eric's River Run 2006

RIVERRUN

SATURDAY, MAY 27, 2006
A Sports Car Driving Tour

Riverrun is a 300+ mile, all-day driving tour using some of Ohio’s most interesting and challenging roads. This year we’ll go southeast to Sistersville WV. After a picnic on the riverbank (recommended) or a meal at Murph’s, we’ll take the Covered Bridge Scenic Byway (SR 26, one of Automobile Magazine’s 20 Best Roads) to Marietta, then SR 555 north to Zanesville and Tom’s Ice Cream Bowl, and on to finish at Clark’s Dining Room in Jacksontown.

Cars leave the Bob Evans at Brice Road & I 70, between 8 and 9 am. We should be at the Ohio River around noon and finish by 6 pm., depending on the time spent sightseeing. There is no fixed schedule nor any assigned speeds. This is a tour rather than a rally.

The Central Ohio British Car Club Council invites all driving enthusiasts, regardless of vehicle make, model or type, to join us on Riverrun 2006.

Call Eric Jones at (740) 363-2203 for more details and to reserve your spot. There is a $5.00 fee. All profit will be donated to Canine Companions.

3/19/2006 - Economy Run 2006

On a bright and sunny Sunday morning, eight cars met at the Shell station on Tylersville Road at Tylers Place Boulevard. The gas tank of each was filled to the first click, and then sealed. The drivers set off on a route approximately 100 miles long that wound west in Ohio into Indiana and south into Kentucky, ending at the Shell station on US 42 just west of I-75 in Florence. The roads were city roads and country roads, some straight, some twisty, some up hill, some down hill (Coasting is economical!), even a stretch of Interstate.

After three hours including a visit to Governor Bebb Preserve in Butler County, the cars arrived at the finishing Shell station where the tanks were unsealed and again filled to the first click. While Bill Bowser’s record set in April, 1998 (on a turbocharged Miata, no less) was neither equaled nor surpassed, the drivers did a good job at proving that you can save gas.

The thriftiest was Rose Gontovsky in her ’95 Miata who achieved 39.87 mpg. Al and Ruth Bailer, driving an ’04 MINI Cooper S, achieved 39.66 mpg. Gary Peacock, driving his ’00 Miata without a navigator, used 2.725 gallons for 35.89 mpg. Ken and Kathy Kubick, having driven their ’00 Z3 from New Palestine, IN, achieved 35.85 mpg. Bruce and Scottie Fahey decided to bring their ’92 Miata instead of their Z3; they got 35.71 mpg with the new engine. Jane Day and Ruth Himonidis had an extra passenger, Jane’s son Jason came along for the ride. Even with the extra weight, they got 35.56 mpg in Jane’s ’05 MINI Cooper S. Michael and Karen Connolly’s ’01 M Coupe was a bit thirstier. They got only 29.58 mpg. The thirstiest of the group, however, was the red ’04 Viper of Mark Kile. He used 5.35 gallons of gas for a lowly 18.28 mpg. The car looked fast just sitting at the gas station!

Awards were presented at a nice lunch at Smokey Bones on Mall Road. Thanks to all who joined us on a beautiful Sunday. To those who didn’t make it, we’re sorry we missed you – maybe next time!

Tim and Bobbi Ross

2/10/2006 - Sweeney

In their continuing efforts to support the GCMC, Sweeney has offered $50.00 to anyone sending them a customer that results in new car sale! This applies to any product Sweeney sells, not just Mazda. Not only does the person responsible for this sale receive $50.00, the GCMC also will receive $50.00. So, Sweeney, you, and the GCMC all benefit from any new car sale that we are responsible for. Please make sure that when you refer someone to the Sweeney dealerships, that they mention you AND the GCMC so that proper credit is given. Sweeney has helped us for years, let's do our part to help them! I also understand that they are working on special pricing for GCMC members. This is just another perk for keeping your membership current.
Any questions, contact me (Mike Lukey), or Keith Kennedy direct at Sweeney Mazda.

2/7/2006 - Event schedule for 2006

Flip over to the event schedule to check out scheduled upcoming events for this coming season. Some event dates have been scheduled without a venue, so if you would like to plan something, or be involved with someone planning something, please let us know. New, fresh ideas are always welcome!

9/22/2005 - MMG Feedback

Click here for feedback from the 2005 Midwest Miata Gathering

9/9/2005 - 2005 Midwest Miata Gathering

Important Note: 8 Mile Road has a road closure and detour. See MMG site for alternate route information!

Got MMG?

http://www.miatagathering.com

9/4/2005 - Autocross Results

The sixth and final Ohio Valley Austin-Healey Club autocross of 2005 was a very successful event. On Sept 4th, Labor Day eve, nineteen drivers took the grid and tried their best to drive fast and safe. That reflects or motto: "SAFETY FAST" which demonstrates that safety is first, and speed second. As always, safety was highlighted by our course designer Don Klein. He set a fun yet challenging course for us to enjoy. We experienced beautiful weather and received tremendous crowd support on this final Sunday.

We gave away 9 prizes to drivers from six various classes.

• The Fastest Lady class winner was Kate Stone with her red 1990 Maxima in at 56.7 seconds.


• The even quicker Lady Healey Driver was Hazel Klein in her 1960 "Purple Haze" Bugeye A-H Sprite with a time of 54.6 seconds.


• The S.O.B . (some other British) winner was Dave Barrett in his 72 red Triumph Spitfire with a 53.9 second run.


• The None of the Above (NOTA) class second best car was Doug Lipski with a 49.1 second pass in his silver 1984 WV GTI.


• The NOTA overall Champion was Mike Bodnar in his 2003 silver Mitsubishi when he managed a time of 46.7 seconds.


• The Haulin' Healey winner in his orange 1962 racing A-H Sprite was Mike Spence from Louisville with another time of 46.7 seconds.


• The second fastest Miata and a mug winner was Sam Thieman in his black 2005 Miata with even another time of 46.7 seconds. He surely made his dad Tom very proud.


• The Mighty Miata Champ and FTOD title holder was James Scott in his 2000 "Lean Green Motoring Machine" with the overall best run of 46.4 seconds. He got a Safety Fast glass mug and a Safety Fast coffee mug as his reward.

A special "thanks for all your help" goes out to Gary Kestin and Todd Spaulding from the Ohio Valley Alfa Romeo Owners Club. The PA was donated by another Alfa guy, Bob Santoro. Joel Edinburgh from the Alfa Club directed our "driver's school" in April. Thanks also to the many OVAHC members who came out and supported our events. A big THANK YOU to everyone who participated during this year and I hope to see you next year when we hold more fun and action packed sessions. Any questions or comments can be directed to me at DLB55AH@CS.COM and the future dates will be posted in the spring on the OVAHC web site http://hometown.aol.com/ovaustinhealey/ early next year.

8/21/2005 - Autocross Result

Sunday August 21st. we held our 5th autocross. It was a beautiful sunny breezy day. We had 31 participants and 6 of them were ladies! We had to turn some away as the 30 drivers or 11 a.m. had already expired.

7/10/2005 - July Autocross Results

The Ohio Valley Austin - Healey Club drivers' training session held on Sunday, July 10 was a fun event for all. Everything went smoothly and the competition between the twenty-one drivers was close as usual. The weather was great and the variety of automotive iron was also. Since we had five Porsche drivers on the grid we created a class just for them. Several spectators got into the act by riding along throughout the afternoon. Hazel Klein had Cindy Loos grinning from ear to ear as they wove between the cones. The two Mazda Miatas both had riders and so did the Corvette. The two Triumphs each carried a passenger and I had one in my Healey as well. Hope to see you on August 21st.

7/5/2005 - Sponsors Page Added

We have added a sponsors page to the website to highlight those vendors that support the Cincinnati Miata Club. Some vendors contribute money or services that permit our club to host the Midest Miata Gathering.

Some of the vendors offer discounts to club members.

It is important to recognize their support by patronizing their businesses. Without our sponsors, we would not be able to host the events.

5/29/2005 - Autocross Results

The Ohio Valley Austin - Healey Club proudly hosted the third driving session of 2005 on Sunday, May 29 at Live Oaks Campus. Of the twenty-one drivers, eight were in Mazda Miatas and four were ladies. The course was set up in a manner which allowed us to do two laps on each of our six runs. Everyone had a real good time and enjoyed the wonderful weather on this beautiful day. All was great... until Dales' right front axle broke. Thanks to everyone to helping out and also for being patient. The proud OVAHC "safety fast" champion mugs winners were as follows.

5/8/2005 - Mother's Day Autocross Report

The Ohio Valley Austin - Healey Club proudly hosted the second driving session of 2005 on Sunday, May 8 at Live Oaks Campus. We thanked all mothers for allowing their mates to attend. Of the twenty drivers, ten were in Mazda Miatas and two wereladies. We were pleasantly surprised to have such a large contingent of enthusiastic Miata drivers. They always provide close and fierce, but friendly competition. The course was set up in a manner which allowed us to do two laps on each of our six runs.It was a wicked, snakelike layout entirely in the main parking lot. Everyone had a real good time on this beautiful eighty degree day. The nine OVAHC "safety fast" champion mugs winners were as follows.

4/26/2005 - Driving Weather Forecast Now Available

Wonder how the weekend weather is looking for an upcoming drive? Wonder no more... The local weather forecast is now available on the left navigation menu.

4/23/2005 - April OVAHC Drivers' Training Session Report

The annual "drivers school" session was hosted by the Ohio Valley Austin-Healey Club on Sunday, April 10. We were fortunate to have an incredibly warm and beautiful day with abundant sunshine. Twenty - three drivers took to the course whichour rally master, Don Klein set up in the main lot. Joel Edinburgh from the Ohio Valley Alfa-Romeo Owners Club provided the motivational and educational talk to rookies and experienced drivers alike. Fellow members, Todd Spaulding and Gary Kestin manned the timing equipment very capably. It was evident that everyone enjoyed themselves and the close competition. The following drivers received one of our new blue marbleized OVAHC Safety Fast Champion coffee mugs for their efforts.

Tom also was the FTOD (fastest time of the day) title holder.

Be sure to check out the photo gallery for pictures of this event!

4/19/2005 - Register for the 2005 Midwest Miata Gathering

The registration form is available for the 2005 Midwest Miata Gathering. Please open and print the linked form. Pre-registering guarantees you all the goodies AND helps us plan for food, drive leaders, photos etc. We are very excited about this year's event and want to see YOU there!!!!!

Registration Form

3/18/2005 - New Website Goes Live!

Welcome to the new Greater Cincinnati Miata Club Website.

As you can see the format has changed and there is now an option for login and registration. Look for the next Topless Maneuvers newsletter for instructions on how to obtain your registration code and update your profile information.

Please use the Contact Us page if you have any questions or comments on the site.

3/1/2005 - Mid-West Miata Gathering 2005

This years MMG should be the best one yet. It is scheduled the weekend of September 9-10-11 and will be held at the scenic riverside park in Woodland Mound Park-Steamboat Bend.

If you are interested in assisting with any aspect of the MMG planning, please contact Rose Gontkovsky, 513-258-6601 or Email Rose.

2/18/2005 - To All Our Members

The GCMC would like to welcome all the new members to the club. New members bring enthusiasm and ideas to the club. Long time members still get a thrill as new Miata owners learn about their cars and share their experiences.

We all know what a wonderful car the Miata is and the joy it brings each each one of us. Share your enthusiasm with others who feel the same way. This club is about our common Miata interests.

This year promises to be an exciting year, and we hope to involve ALL the club members in events this year. We challenge every member to try something new this year. Make this YOUR club by participating.

Here are some of the exciting things happening in 2005.

2/17/2005 - GCMC Website

New for 2005 is a redesign of the www.cincimiata.com website. This site has been designed to be a two-way communication medium for all our members. You are encouraged to explore the site and contribute your own content to make this site a dynamic part of the club. Members will be permitted to post information about events, photos, links and other resources for others to share.

1/1/2005 - This Years Events

Event planning is well underway and this year will have numerous events that will appeal to every type of Miataphile: Scenic drives, Weekend Getaways, Racing and Autocrosses, Club Dinners and Social Gatherings, Parades and Car Shows, and more...

Please see the Events Schedule for details about all the upcoming events. And be sure to use the GCMC 24hr Hotline (513) 333-6875 for last minute changes...