10/9/2009 - 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!

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...