Newsletter of the Bluebonnet Miata Club OCTOBER 2007

Transcription

1 In The Breeze Newsletter of the Bluebonnet Miata Club

2 PAGE Club Officers President Pat Franklin Vice President Virginia Weaver Secretary Lynn Knapik Treasurer Gene Carlow Membership Betty Jackson ewsletter Tim McCurdy Webmasters Don Privett Welcome New Members Bob & Sue Castle 2001 Red San Antonio Neal & Merche Sintek 2005 Silver San Antonio Christina & Daniel Delgado 05 Black Cherry New Braunfels Glen & Marsha Henry 92 Blue Boerne Prez Sez: A big thank you goes out to the Tumbleweed Miata Club for putting on the Statewide Roundup. The picturesque backdrop of west Texas was spectacular. The run that went from Alpine to Presidio, Lajitas, Terlingua, and back to Alpine was fantastic. The stretch of road from Presidio to Lajitas made the Leakey run look like a short road with gradual turns. It was awesome! Of course some of you went the opposite direction, and had the same amount of fun. I ve had several comments and received s concerning the non-miata cars that are joining us on the runs. One couple has a miata and a non-miata and two kids. They want to be able to bring their family with them. Plus rumor has it that they are looking for a copper red 6speed. That s cool. Sometimes going on a run with us has resulted in that Miata Smile and shortly after, a miata is purchased. And then again there are cars that join us and don t plan on buying a miata. You have made your desires known for us to be a miata only club and I agree. The solution is a change/addition to the club bylaws. I had a chance to buy back my 95M-patsmerlot. It was the car that began our involvement with the Bluebonnet gang. We ve driven to Ottawa, Canada, had lunch in Kennebunkport, Maine, and played the slots in Vegas, driven to Bryce and Zion Canyons in Utah. Wow, what wonderful times this trip down memory lane brings back. With two turbo charged miatas in our garage, there isn t room for another. Did I forget to mention a motorcycle? I know that somebody out there will give my baby a good home. In two more meetings, it will be time to elect new officers. Think about giving some time back to a great club. Gotta Miata!!!!!!! Pat Franklin, Pres. THANK YOU Just wanted to give a big thank you to Steve Spain for his planning and coordinating the Texas Miata Round-up in Alpine this year. Although it takes more than one to make an event such as this successful, having a good leader and organizer can make or break it. I m sure Pat Franklin would understand the pressures and demands that are required by the coordinator. But, Steve has done much more than this. He has invited the club to the Davis Mountains over the past few years. Through his leadership we have seen the Marfa lights (maybe), observed the planets through the McDonald observatory (when it wasn t raining), and no one will forget our visit with Dave Kimble in Marfa, a world renowned illustrator that opened his shop for us to visit because of his friendship with Steve. So again, thanks and a cheer for putting on such a memorable round-up

3 Bend The Bend Texas Miata Round-Up 2007 PAGE 3 DAY 1 Alpine, Texas Thanks to the Tumbleweed Miata Club from Midland, Texas for their hard work hosting this years Miata Round-up. After numerous years in Kerrville, the Tumbleweed Club brought us out to west Texas to enjoy the Alpine area, the Davis Mountains, and especially Big Bend National Park and the roads surrounding it. It was Labor Day weekend, and the local celebration was in the air. Besides the Miata Club, the Shiners were in full force to take part in the Marfa Parade, and the Alpine balloon festival was also on the schedule. Add to that some great runs it looked to be an outstanding weekend. After a month of figuring where to leave San Antonio from, most of the Bluebonnet group met in Castroville at the Haby Bakery. The largest group participating in the Round- Up were from the Bluebonnet group so we had a large contingent ready for the 7 hour drive to Alpine. We also had some guests, including Paul & Judy s new exchange student, Morgane, from Switzerland, Jack and Candy Holbrook, and also a few members of the Tejas Miata Club from Austin including Mike & Colleen Lucas (George's brother.) A few members went on their own. Glen and Liz Coker spent a few nights at Fort Davis before joining us at the Ramada on Friday night, and Doug and Kathy Smith drove their Toyota up by I-10 so their dog could accompany them (they don t trust kennels). John and Shirley were driving their Mustang convertible as their Miata was in the shop for repairs. After a group meeting, Leon Franklin led us out US 90 W. The first break was in Uvalde to drain the coffee from Haby s and then on toward Del Rio where we would have lunch. Along the way we stopped at the bridge over the Pecos River. A local from the area was there and gave us a short history of the area. Such a beautiful view!! GLENN AND LIZ COKER SPENT A FEW RESTFULL DAYS IN FORT DAVIS AT THE PECOS RIVER TIM & ENNIE DAVE & MARILYN

4 PAGE 4 GOERGE...ALWAYS LOOKING FOR A GOOD PICTURE PAUL.ALWAYS HAMMING FOR A PICTURE LOTTA MIATAS LOTTA MIATAPHTES Arriving in Del Rio some stopped for gas, some stopped for food, some kept on going. For reasons unknown the group split up so those that ate together stayed together and others went on with a group or by themselves. An attempt to take a photo at Langtry was aborted by a heavy rainfall, so most of us left, some stayed and saw the museum inside. A few of us gathered at Sanderson and made our way to Alpine. The hotel lobby at the Ramada was crammed with round-up participants. The Tumbleweed club was very efficient getting people signed in, passing out gift bags with shirts, hats, and other goodies. (The shirt manufacturer must have heard that Miata people love to eat so they oversized all the shirts.) After getting settled in the rooms some socialized and some took naps. A large group went to downtown Alpine to the Holland House restaurant where George said, the food was great, the service was not, after a long wait, the food finally came - with a reduction in price. Don & Judy, Doug & Kathy, Tim and Ennie, Kathy and MaryAnn opted for the little restaurant next door to the motel The Shotgun Grill. What can I say..not much, but it was convenient and service was quick. After dinner, we strolled over to the hotel where the Ramada was having its outdoor concert on the porch. For Friday night the concert was free, the beer was not so we

5 PAGE 5 found us a table and settled in for a night of music. As the night went on more and more people joined us so that we filled up 3 picnic tables. A few danced, the music was good, and the fellowship with friends was outstanding. Add in the clear, dry, mosquito free summer night air and it was a perfect way to end the day. Tim & Ennie 2-stepin It s been awhile...a long while, but after a few sore toes and a few trips we made it work! FRIDAY NIGHTS EATS!! PAULA O DOCHARTY. JEFF, JACK AND DIANE HOLBROOK Day 2 Saturday morning started early as their was a full day of activities ahead. The Ramada advertised a continental breakfast, but it was much more besides juice, pastries, and fruit, there was oat meal, yogurt, different types of juices and coffee, plus a hot grill where you could order eggs any style with sausage and bacon available too! Now, nice and full we pulled out into the still darkness to attend the Balloon Bash right outside Alpine. The sun was starting to come up and both spectators and participants found their designated spots. Upon entering the site we were asked if we would like to help set up balloons and possibly take a ride. A few of the Miataphytes took them up. Although only a few were able to ride, others helped get the balloons ready, while others got close for great pictures. The only negative was that George s miata got dirty on that dirt road. How inconsiderate! The Balloon Crew By Dave Hamilton One of the many highlights of the 2007 Miata State Round-Up was serving as crew members for the Peppermint Patty hot air balloon at the Big Bend Balloon Bash in Alpine. Marilyn and I were recruited for this by our friends Bob and Ruth Price from the Tumbleweed Miata Club. They needed to recruit a crew of four so Gene and Marcia Carlow also quickly signed up. Peppermint Patty is owned by Jim & Millie Moore who live in New Mexico. They are old friends of Bob and Ruth. The only bad thing about being a crew member was that we had to be at the launch site by 6:45am on Saturday morning. This meant that Gene, Marcia, Marilyn and I had to get up at 5:30am. Nonetheless we were at the launch site on time and were excited about participating in the balloon launch. When we

6 PAGE 6 got to the launch site the balloon (which is actually called the envelope) and the basket were still locked in the trailer. We helped get them out and assembled. The balloon was initially filled with air by a large, portable fan. The air was then warmed by the propane blower (which is actually called the heater). As the air warmed, the balloon began to rise off the ground into an upright position until it floated directly over the basket. At this point Jim Moore made numerous last minute checks to be sure that everything was in order. He then lifted the balloon a foot off the ground and we walked it to a good launching position in the field. The balloon was sponsored for this event by Dr. James Luecke and his Fort Davis Family Practice Clinic. He is a rare physician who still makes house calls and once drove 120 miles to treat an isolated patient in the Big Bend area. As the sponsor, he and his girlfriend Barbara got to fly in the balloon. We held the basket down as they got in and then we helped guide them off with ropes. Now came a really fun part. We all jumped into the back of the pick up truck and took off cross country chasing the balloon. Millie was driving and kept in contact with her husband in the balloon by radio. They finally landed nearby and we all helped hold the balloon down while they got out. At that point we received an unexpected surprise. Jim announced that he had enough propane left to take two crew members for a ride. He said they had to go one at a time due to the low fuel. Marilyn went first and had a fantastic and unforgettable ride. We again piled into the pickup truck and chased the balloon cross country. When Marilyn landed we all held the balloon down while she got out and Gene took her place. We helped them launch and then again chased them cross country in the back of the truck. We had a minor problem at one point when the truck went off in one direction and Gene and the balloon unexpectedly went in the opposite direction. We lost sight of the balloon behind some hills and for about 10 minutes had no idea where they had gone. Eventually Millie made contact with Jim and we found them in a field near a small hill. By this time the propane was gone so it was time to pack up. The balloon fell on its side as the hot air cooled. It took all of us to control it and get all the air out. We then had to fold and roll the balloon. Finally we put it into the balloon bag. Next, all of us had to sit on the bag at the same time to get all the air out and to make it a size that would fit in the trailer. After the balloon was in the trailer we had to put in all the accessories and the basket. Needless to say, the basket is really heavy. With everything locked back in the trailer we all climbed into the pickup for the return ride to the original launch site. As soon as we returned Marilyn and Gene were kidnapped and taken to a special ceremony honoring all who had just taken their very first balloon ride. Everyone got to watch the ceremony or initiation which was a hoot. I won t give the details of the ceremony because I don t want to ruin it for any future first timers. Just before we departed for the motel, Marilyn and Gene were also awarded a special Peppermint Patty pin to commemorate their first flight. It was a truly fantastic and unforgettable experience for all of us. IF YOU WANT THE RIDE, YOU MUST DO THE WORK! GOING UP?

7 PAGE 7 BALLOON BASH PICS Naw...upon closer inspection these are Bluebonnet types drinking.something? Are these I.E. s praying? Marilyn s balloon Dave & Marilyn, Glen & Liz, Gene & Marcia did the hard work. Leon helped out by supervising! BALLOONS, ULTRALITES, AND FRIENDS! WHO COULD ASK FOR MORE???? LIZ AND PAULA LET EVERONE KNOW WHAT WAS HAPPENING HERE!! I KNOW I HEARD A RATTLESNAKE

8 PAGE 8 Following the Balloon Bash some took off for the car wash to wash off the west Texas dust and get ready to take part in THE MARFA PARADE. Leaving from the Ramada we promptly got separated by the time we got to Marfa, but with the use of cell phones most made it to the gathering site. Everybody had their club decals on the side of the cars, and there was a long line of Miata s ready to parade. The Shriner s were right next to us and all their fun vehicles. The clowns were a real treat for the Marfa folks, especially the kids. Ennie saw one of the Shriner s with his little cart and asked to get her picture taken with him in the cart and he asked if she wanted to ride in the parade with him. So Tim is by himself while Ennie rides on the little cart throwing candy. This was not like most of the other parades we have been a part of. Not only do they allow you to throw candy, the kids come right up to cars to get it. The Shriner had to remind Ennie not to throw it to adults, but to the kids only. The parade went down main street and then weaved itself around nearby residential neighborhoods. We saw a few people from the Miata clubs in the crowd and didn t know if they chose not to ride in the parade or got there too late. But, after I finished I went back to get Ennie as the Shriner s were behind the Miata s and lo and behold here came another group of Miata s. So I don t know if they split us up or they got there too late to join the first group or what!!! The weather was wonderful though and I think all had a good time. Many of the folks from Marfa, were saying thanks for coming, which is always a nice thing. After the parade everybody took off to eat lunch and rest a little before the loop drive around Fort Davis. Leon and Don washing off the Balloon Fest dirt road dust.

9 PAGE 9 There was a considerable wait before we started, but the time was well spent to meet Miata enthusiasts from other clubs and other states, and a little shining to make our babies look their best. FORT DAVIS LOOP DRIVE I remember when I used to live in El Paso in the late 1970 s how we would normally make our trips back east or west along the road that was eventually replaced by I-10, but one year coming back to El Paso I decided to drive Hwy 90 just for a change. Seeing Langtry was such a trip. I saw the movie in 1973 and had no idea that there was a Langtry, Texas and a real life historical figure of Judge Roy Bean. Next stop was Fort Davis to look at the Fort which was nice and then we took the highway through the Davis mountains back up to I-10 (or whatever was up there back then.) What a treat, the Davis Mountains are a such a beautiful area. With the rock faces and Juniper s growing everywhere we always made it a point to going through the Davis mountains either coming or going back from visiting family in North Carolina. But Steve Spain knows the mountains better than I ever did and he led us on the 78 mile loop drive around Fort Davis. Surely this road was made for Miata s with it s winding multiple curves and long straight-a-ways for some spirited driving. There were so many cars that keeping together was a real test, but Steve had a good sweep and no one got left behind. It was an exciting run, especially for those who drove on the loop for the first time. Ending up in Fort Davis, the run was finished. A few took some time to look around Fort Davis and others took off for Alpine to rest a bit more before dinner. Steve Spain explains the rules of the road THE LINEUP

10 PAGE 10 THE ROADS AROUND FORT DAVIS & SOME WHO ENJOYED THEM THE HOLBROOKS JACK, CANDY, DIANE & JEFF THE O DOCHARTY S PAT & PAULA

11 PAGE 11 A DINNER THAT WAS AND WASN T After a full day of balloon, parades, and Miata runs, the Miata folks would be treated to a steak dinner put on by the Shriner s. I m sure that our Round-up fees went toward the purchase of the food, but it was still a nice gesture. We were told to bring folding chairs because there probably wouldn t be enough chairs to seat everybody. We also found out that we would eating outdoors, which is O.K But the big problem came when we found out that steak was the only choice. For those who can t or refuse to eat red meat that left them out. In a move that probably wasn t real popular with the organizers or the Shriners, a group of mostly Bluebonnet members decided to go to a restaurant that would provide steak and other items for those that can t eat steak. The Long Horn Steak house was the logical choice. They had good steaks for those who wanted steak along with fish and chicken for those that didn t. We had a nice comfortable table, salads and sides and after the first 6 of us sat down, more kept coming and joined us. So we moved the tables together and by the time we finished there were probably12 of us enjoying a great meal. We heard that the steak at the cookout was really good too, but an abundance of flies that invited themselves were quite a nuisance. All in all, no one went hungry and we hope the Shriners are not angry with us. Just a couple of tidbits about the Roundup At the last minute, we had to bring our old girl Eva who many of you got to meet at the Roundup, so instead of the Miata, we arrived in our new Corolla S. We did attempt a run to Fort Davis, and made the first 20 or so miles ok, but the next 24 miles up and around proved that just because we have an S, (sport package), a Corolla is in no way a match for a Miata (which of course, we already knew)! So, we dropped off and went back to the hotel. One day we (Kathy Grant, Mary Ann Gaudette, Kathy and I) got into the Corolla, took a cooler, and drove over to a city park where we had a cool one in our lawn chairs in the shade, loving the lack of humidity. Having been told that the Shriners were going to feed us on Saturday night, and not knowing what to expect, we thought, ok, we ll see. We dutifully took our lawn chairs and went to the designated meeting place. Seating was already taken under the awning, so we improvised by grabbing a couple of empty cable spools and turning them into picnic tables. We found a great spot under a shade tree, and it was a wonderful evening for having a cool beverage, also provided by the Shriners for a simple donation. Kathy G., Mary Ann, Kathy and I met three of the Houston members who came to share our shade and the meal, and we really enjoyed meeting them. Back to the steak dinner: It was quite an operation; those guys know how to cook a mean rib eye, and the new potatoes, southern style perfectly seasoned green beans (you know, the requisite bacon and onions) and plenty of bread and butter completed a terrific meal. I don t know how long they d been out there cooking, but it was no small feat to feed that many people. It was very generous and we greatly appreciated their efforts. Submitted by Doug & Kathy Smith

12 PAGE 12 THE DASH AND SPLASH WARS (continued) and what happens in Alpine stays in Alpine? Being competitive creatures, those that attended the dash and slash run in August were not satisfied with the apparent tie in the cloth ball pelting contest. With each side claiming victory, we went at it again. The boys were Dave Hamilton, Doug Smith, Don Privett and Tim McCurdy. The girls consisted of Marilyn Hamilton, Kathy Smith, Judi Privett, and Ennie McCurdy. There was no mercy as face shots were best, but anywhere a hit was made was cause for celebration. With a tie in the making, Kathy Grant, who had been watching, suggested a different way to play. She would throw all the balls in the center of the pool, then it was a race to grab the balls and pelt the enemy with it. When you were hit you were out and it became a game of dodge ball. Who won? should have been there! Then Dave decided it was time for the pool ballet. Although the oblong shape of the pool didn t lend itself to symmetrical moves, we persevered and were satisfied with the outcome. Walking back to the room we saw some of our Miata friends in their room, and walked over and tapped on the window. We regretted that decision when a full moon came into view. Whose? what happens in Alpine stays in Alpine! Anyway, it was time to go to bed and rest up for our 278 mile run the next day. COED WATER BALLET 50 something Mermaids Day Three The Big Bend and the River Road Those that have been driving Miata s for a few years have heard about all the great roads across America. There is Deal s Gap, the roads around Moab, the Pacific Coast Highway, even our highways in the Hill Country around San Antonio, New Braunfels, and Austin. Included in any list of great roadster drives I think you would have to include the River Road (Hwy 170) between Lajitas and Presidio. I had read a while back that it was one the top 10 drives in America and I heartedly agree. Steve set up three drives on Sunday morning hoping that everyone would find one that would be fun, exciting, and yet comfortable based on their driving ability. The first group would go through Lajitas a more spirited run, and another group would go through Lajitas at a more leisurely pace, while the third group would do a reverse run heading from Presidio to Lajitas. Following a good breakfast cars began lining up outside the Ramada, each finding the group they had signed up for upon arrival on Friday. A fourth group was added - some members of the Bluebonnet club, not know for being a conforming group of people this weekend, did not want to drive the river run. They wanted to go into the park! (It should be noted that all had taken part in runs on the River Road on

13 PAGE 13 previous trips to the Big Bend area, but most of this group had never been inside the park.) So they journeyed south, through Study Butte, and spent their day in the park. Gene s Story Big Bend National Park Run It was suggested prior to the start of the run that it should be called the Big Bend Maverick Run. However, when it was all said and done, the more appropriate title might have been the Big Bend Run of Mavericks. After starting with a suppressing ten Miatas (which grew to eleven along the way), at the end of the day only two returned on the planed route into the Ramada together; the run leader (Gene and Marcia) and the sweep (Alan and Sandy). Everyone else had separated from the group somewhere along the way to visit additional points of interest or for other personal reasons. One might think that no one was enjoying the run; however, all participants were thrilled with the beauty of the Park. Those who had been there before pointed out how much greener it was than they remembered. The spring and early summer rains had raised the beauty of the Park to a new level. The run was planned to start minutes after the second River Run group, on Hwy 118 south, and arrive at Study Butte after they departed west for Lajitas. However, they were still there when we arrived, but it didn t appear to create any confusion. After they departed, we headed east into the National Park behind a new leader (Glen and Liz) who were familiar with the roads from previous visits. To every one s pleasant surprise no one was at the entrance to collect a fee. The pace had to be reduced drastically due to the Park speed limit of 45 mph, but no one complained as they were mesmerized by what was all around them. The first stop was a side trip to the Chisos Mountains Lodge in the Chisos Basin (5,400 ft elevation). It was here that we picked up the eleventh Miata, a gold M2 from Houston. After a tasty lunch at the Lodge dinning room, a little walking exercise around the Lodge grounds was in order. Several started down a 2+ mile trail to the window ; an opening between the sides of two mountains that provides a spectacular view of the Park s low lands. However, after about 0.2 miles, they all decided enough was enough, took their window pictures, and returned to the Lodge. Back on the main road, the decision had been made to add an extra leg to the run. So, we headed past the Park midpoint and southeast about 22 ml to the Mexican border. After pictures and tops up for most cars due to the increased heat in the area, we returned to the Park midpoint for a pit stop at the Visitor Center. It was here that the run split into two groups. One group preferred to backtrack to Study Butte to visit Terlingua and then return to Alpine via Hwy 118. The rest continued on the planed return path, Hwy 385 north thru Marathon to Alpine. All made it back safely to the Ramada with lasting memories of one of the most beautiful areas in Texas, Big Bend National Park. Submitted by Gene & Marcia Carlow

14 Page 14 Sandra & Juki singing Lean on Me David and Marilyn - Window beneath the V in the mountain behind George sunning in the desert THE OUTLAW GROUP

15 PAGE 15 Two beautiful sites, Big Bend National Park Mountains and a group of Miata s GENE & MARCIA LED THE RUN TO THE PARK GLEN & LIZ LED THE RUN INSIDE THE PARK

16 PAGE 16 AND SOME THOUGHT RATTLESNAKES WERE THE ONLY THING TO WORRY ABOUT? STARLITE CAFÉ TERLINGUA, TEXAS Tim s Story The River Road - Hwy 170 Ennie and I signed up for the leisurely run along with a collection of Miataphytes from Bluebonnet, Tumbleweed, Houston, Dallas, and others from other states. Being led by Mark Snowden we pulled out of the Ramada and headed south toward Study Butte. Now we chose the leisurely run because we had heard the River Road could be..challenging?...and we wanted to enjoy the scenery too. But as beautiful as the scenery is around Big Bend, it is just as boring on the road getting there. Mark was not topping 60 mph on a straight road with a 70 mph limit. By the time we got to Study Butte I was tired from the boring drive. After a short break we headed out again for Lajitas. Bypassing Terlingua, we still were going at a slow pace as the roads started getting interesting. We stopped at Lajitas to take a look at the town that looks like Main Street, circa Lajitas is basically a high end resort area, and sometimes used for western movies. Many of the stores were closed as it was Sunday morning and Labor Day weekend, but the hotel was open and had several interesting relics inside. The Chameleon was having over heating problems and required the attention of Jack and Jeff. John and Shirley had their convertible Mustang with Freda Treat and Debbie (Freda s sister-in-law) in the back seat. After touring Main Street we drove further into the village and paid a visit to the beer drinking goat. Nothing more, nothing less, but that goat can put away the brew. After everybody (that wanted to) got a chance to give a cold one to the goat, a few of us were somewhat concerned about the speed we were traveling at, and we afraid we might miss the excitement that River Road offers Main street pic..ennie lounging the ghost of wrecked Miata s snuck in!

17 PAGE 17 The adobe picture wall Rohm & Barbara Thompson Al Powers and Dwight Mickelthwait Tim & Ennie McCurdy THE DRINKING GOAT This goat needs no encouraging!! The Chameleon was feeling poorly Mark said, no problem, go ahead and we will gather at the tee-pee picnic area. So on the way back to 170 Mark pulled out in front of us and took off. Somewhat confused, we took off after him. What a ride, a literal roller coaster, up the hills, down the hills, through the dips, blistering through the curves. (Maybe Mark was upset that we considered him a slow driver.) By the time we got to the teepees the group arrived in waves as no one was able to stay together at the speed we were traveling. Mark said he wasn t sure what people wanted on the leisure run but after people started grumbling about slow speeds so he decided to pick it up. DID HE EVER! After a break at the tee-pees and several photo s taken we were off again, and the road got curvier, and more roller coast like and Mark was running like a bat out of h. Pat O Docharty said that he did not think that he could have kept up if he had gone just a little bit faster I thought the same thing too. But the run was a blast. I loved the curves, Ennie loved the dips. There is no way to describe it although Texas Monthly offered this description, sometimes, from a hilltop, the squiggling river lies fully exposed, with the gray-green mountains of Mexico as backdrop. The road, evidently overjoyed with the relationship, sweeps down and out of arroyos, flings itself around hairpin curves, squeezes between hoodoos, and climbs at least one grade (some say the steepest of any state highway) that can leave RV s gasping. end quote. By the time we reached Presidio we were ready for a large glass of tea, and some food which we got at the little Mexican restaurant at the center of town. Of course, first things first, we had to praise Mark for the exhilarating ride and he making it one that we would not soon forget. Following lunch most made the ride back to Alpine at their own pace. The next time I go to Big Bend, I will enjoy the park but also Hwy 170!

18 PAGE 18 Pat & Paula rock climbing This Mustang looks like a Chic mobile - John got the job of driving Shirley, Freda & Debbie around Tee Pee picnic tables are about half way between Lajitas and Presidio ZOOM ZOOM

19 PAGE 19 A final roundup note This year's venue for the 2007 Miata Round-Up was spectacular. The weather couldn't have been better and the scenery was majestic to say the least. The fun started early on the morning of the 31st with everyone meeting at Haby's Bakery in Castroville. We had alot more cars than were expected and were eager to get on our way to Big Bend. We were greeted in the parking lot by the Castroville Mayor, who even had a Miata of his own, he expressed an interest in getting our club to participate in some type of Castroville event. We invited him to come visit one of our Miata meetings. It was nice to know that even other cities close by are interested in our Miata club. The trek to Big Bend was fun and filled with a lot of fabulous scenery. We were greeted at The Alpine Marriott by some fantastic Tumbleweed Club members who gave us our goodies and helped explain the weekend events. The Alpine Marriott staff were also extremely hospitable. That evening a lot of us participated in their street dance, listening to the band and dancing to the music and generally just having a great time with all the Miata folks! Saturday morning we got up early and ventured out to the Balloon Festival... Don and I had never been to a Hot-Air balloon festival and we were just awed by the beauty of it all. It was fantastic! We took lots of fabulous pictures you can see these at maneuver to the Bend the Bend picture gallery and if you didn't get to see this spectacular event these pictures will give you just a glimpse of what we saw. We left the balloon festival and were in our very first parade. It seemed like everyone enjoyed it. As we met people all over the Big Bend area they said they saw our club in the parade, and we even sparked the interest of many people that were considering getting Miata's too! Then on to the Fort Davis Loop... Wow... what a spectacular drive! Then that night... THE CONTINUATION of the SPLASH & DASH POOL WARS!!... I'm not sure if there was still a clear winner between the men and the women... I guess this war is TO BE CONTINUED! A group of us decided to break away from the normal runs on Sunday and we actually drove "into" the Big Bend national park, we had a fabulous lunch at the park restaurant and took a small hike to "The Window". The scenery was incredible and the company was fantastic. You can see these pictures at the photo gallery also - the National Park pictures. The Tumbleweed club did a great job - especially when they had such short notice on how many of us were actually coming. They never anticipated that so many of the Bluebonnet members would come to this event. It was great that they continued the tradition of giveaways at their final dinner... and everyone got a gift and many people even got 2 gifts! All in all Don and I had a fabulous time, saw lots of incredible scenery, traveled through the "hall of the Mountain Kings", contemplated God and his infinite wisdom in the creation of the beauty and majesty of Big Bend, got a lot of "quality" zoom zoom time in, and were even treated to many cute songs and anecdotes from Paul. It was a picturesque event that we will always remember. Thanks Tumbleweed Club! Judi & Don

20 PAGE 20 TECH DAY - November 3, 2007 YOUR INVITED - Jack and Jeff Holbrook will allow us to use their business (Jack s Paint Place) at the Converse Business Park off FM78 to work on our cars. Lifts and tools are available. Following the tech time, their will be a BBQ, and pot luck dinner. Hamburgers, hot dogs, and drinks are provided by the club, and you bring your favorite recipe or dessert. Call Jeff at or (jeff@jackspaintplace.com.) if you have some extensive work to do. Now is the time to order your aftermarket items to customize your baby! Usually there is a paintless dent guy to correct the dents caused by parking next to a truck or SUV at Wal-Mart. For those new to club this is an excellent day to meet fellow club members. If your mechanical and want to help, there will be a place for you. If your not but want to watch, that s OK too. Those who have a favorite recipe, bring it on.miata enthusiasts love to eat too. This is one of the favorite non-driving events of the year so mark your calendar HIGHWAY CLEAN-UP, Sat 29 Sept I was out cruising on our 2 mile section of 1863 this morning and it looks like they are done with the construction so I think we'll be able to perform our first trash pickup of the year. They really widened the shoulders of the road so we have less area to clean up. There are also sections with new guard rails that will limit our access to some or the areas. Meet at Big's Valero located 2.5 miles north of Rolling Oaks Mall on Nacogdoches Road. Show Time is 8:00 A.M. Go Time is 8:15 A.M. We should be back to Grumpy s for breakfast by 10:00 A.M. For any new folks, this is our community service project. We pick up trash along a two mile section of FM1863 as part of the Texas Adopt a Highway program. We have this organized very well and we can have the whole section picked up in an hour and fifteen minutes. Also, you need to bring comfortable shoes, long pants, and some kind of gloves. I ll bring some water and the rest of the supplies. Sometimes the grass is pretty wet so a spare pair of socks and shoes comes in handy for the trek back to Grumpy s. We don t have a formal fowl weather plan but as long as it isn t monsoon type weather we ll probably still pick up. Thanks for all your help. Jeff An Enchanted Run by Larry Vervack As you all know, any day in the Hill Country is a great day, but Saturday, September 22 nd was a glorious day with blue skies and not a cloud to be found. Starting from the parking lot at 1604 and Blanco Road, Larry and Carol Vervack led 17 cars on our annual run to Enchanted Rock. This run to one of south Texas most wonderful natural attractions followed some familiar roads as well as some new ones that almost no one had ever been on before. After a brief stop at the Valero at Highway 46 and 3351 where we picked up three more cars, but lost Jose who had to return to San Antonio, we headed

21 PAGE 21 north to Edge Falls Road. This great little road that goes all the way to Kendalia, intersects with a low water crossing running beautifully this year, where we encountered several kayakers who were happy to see our Miata parade. A little farther down the road we passed an area where a series of cascading waterfalls certainly proved to be a must stop for a quick picture. After sailing through Sisterdale, we head north on Old Luckenbach Road, Jung Lane and later on Herber-Schaeffer Road. Most of these roads were new to the group who all agreed that they were great roads with lots of scenery and great curves. After a short trip on Highway 16 we took a left on Eckert Road and had a close encounter of the Cow kind before hitting Lower Crabapple Road. From there it just a short trip up Highway 965 to Enchanted Rock. Entering Enchanted Rock Park is always somewhat challenging as you never know how crowded it will be and whether the Park Rangers will give you a hard time about turning around and parking. Even through Carol and I had coordinated with the Park Rangers two weeks in advance, you never know who ll be working and how crowded it will be. Fortunately, we had a very understanding Ranger who welcomed us in and an almost empty parking lot that allowed us to park and take a few pictures and a quick potty break before we headed to Fredericksburg. While stopped, we had a couple of bikers take a group picture with the beautiful Enchanted Rock in the background. Many of our group had never been to Enchanted Rock and had an almost irresistible urge to climb it. That urge subsided quickly when they saw the small specks that were people actually climbing the rock. After a quick stop, we headed to Fredericksburg where a great German meal at Friedhelm s Bavarian Restaurant awaited. After a quick turn on Highway 965, we head down Keese Road, made a quick turn on Gypsum Mine Road to Cherry Mountain Road all the way to Highway 87 straight into Fredericksburg. I think we were all ready for the cool and somewhat dark setting of Friedhelm s German restaurant with most enjoying a great schnitzel or an all American hamburger. As always, it seems like the real joy of our club comes from the fun of driving our wonderful little cars to a nice restaurant and chowing down. It s always great to relax in a nice, cool environment and enjoy each others company. That s the real beauty of our club, nice people, great cars, wonderful drives and lots of great food! What could be better??? B E A U T I M I A T A S F U L Run Leaders - Larry and Carol Vervack ON A BEAUTIFUL DAY

22 PAGE 22 WELCOME TO NEW GUEST ED SMALL 2006 GALAXY GRAY ROMANTIC POSE DOUG WITH AN OL ARMY BUDDY FROM ALABAMA

23 PAGE 23 NASCAR HAMBURGER RUN - Sat, 15 September A new run to a new place. Good participation, on a nice evening run. Bubba s wasn t too fancy, but that s what a makes a burger GOOD! Run Leaders - Jim & Freda Treat? HAPPY GROUP??!! Why is this doll upside down?? ANOTHER LUCKY WINNER I SEE THE MOON PIES, BUT WHERE S THE RC COLA? HOUSEKEEPING 1. Let s beat this one to death item. It s not a free club, but it s not expensive either. Betty has sent out another to those who have not paid their dues have no intention on paying their dues have no money to pay their dues or are just plain deadbeats Solution - look at the last page, upper right hand corner, open the website, click on membership.join the club or pay your dues. Send form and/or money to Betty Jackson at address indicated. Your due date for your membership is on the address label. Easy. 2. A KUDO for Don and his work on the website. The website will tell you what you need to know, but were too afraid to ask. Of particular note visit the gallery. Don works long and hard to provide pictures of our events in vivid color. Send your pictures in and tell him what a great job he is doing. CHOICES, CHOICES A HAMBURGER OR A HAMBURGER?

24 PAGE 24 2nd ANNUAL LEAKEY AND BEYOND RUN Saturday, October 20 By Larry Bader OK, So the masses have spoken, our illustrious leader has mandated and the Houston crowd is willing to play. Thus, the "Second Annual Leakey and Beyond Run" will be held as scheduled! What does this mean? It means not one, not two, but four runs in one! - That's right, for the reasonable price of a Saturday afternoon, several gallons of gasoline and potentially measurable portions of rubber you and friends get to jaunt throughout the Texas Hill Country as I orchestrate our paths. As before, I have divided the run into the Iron Butt and Cotton Tail classes. But new this year are the Northern and Southern routes. The Iron Butt class is the longer of the routes, with the Cotton Tail being for the less adventurous (or more time constrained) of the group. The Southern routes are for those of us starting in San Antonio, whereas the Northern routes originate in Kerrville. The Northern and Southern groups will rendezvous (est 1:30p) at the Vanderpool Post Office on FM-337. (Just prior to "where the good part starts".) There we will split into two groups; those interested in the road (on the right) and those interested in the view (on the left). Once we make it into Leakey, the group will split into the Iron Butts and the Cotton Tails, each with seperation points later in the routes to allow Southerners to return to San Antonio and Northerners to return to Kerrville. FOR THE SOUTHERNERS: Departure: 12:00, Sat, 20 Oct from the parking lot next to the Vallero on SH-16 and Circle A Trail. (About 1 mile up 16 from 1604 & Bandera) - This will allow us to bypass a majority of the Saturday afternoon traffic at the foot of Helotes. (And three traffic lights...) Trip Length: - Cotton Tails: ~175 miles, est 3.5 hours - Iron Butts: ~280 miles, est 5.5 hours

25 FOR THE NORTHERNERS: PAGE 25 Departure: 12:30, Sat, 20 Oct from the Backlot of the Y.O. Trip Length: - Cotton Tails: ~150 miles, est 3 hours - Iron Butts: ~150 miles, est 3 hours (the run is ~3.5 miles longer than the Cotton Tail run. - Truth in advertising...) I will get copies of the Run Sheets to Don for transport to Kerrville, where he will distribute accordingly *once the run waivers have been signed*. I will take care of the pack heading out of San Antonio. For those of you that don't already know. Corky Bell and I are cooking up some goodies for my Miata. At present, we don't expect to have the car on the road by then. However, I have already received offers for alternative transportation, so I won't be walking. If you want to add to my list of choices, please send me a private message. (Serious offers only, please...) As you can tell, (as most run leaders do) I've invested time and effort to ensure this will be a memorable event. So, if you can arrange it, we'd love to have you join us. I hope to see you then, If you want to join the group that is going to Kerrville, we are leaving Friday, staying Friday and Saturday night at the YO Resort in Kerrville. We will join up with some of the Houston Club. Tentative plans are to eat at the Cowboy Steak House Friday night, join up with the Bluebonnet group Saturday afternoon at 1:30, eat at Chili s on the river Saturday night, and make a run for Hondo and the Flightline Café Sunday morning. If you are interested in spending the weekend in Kerrville you will need to call the YO Resort to make reservations. Rooms are normally $99 per night, but are giving the rooms to us at $89.

26 PAGE 26 In The Breeze Bluebonnet Miata Club 9026 Richmond Hill Sponsored By: San Antonio, TX PRINTED BY POSTNET To join the club or to pay dues, enter the above web site and click the membership tab. Check Your Mailing Label for Your Renewal Date! Please Renew Your Monthly Membership Promptly! Bluebonnet Miata Club Upcoming Events September 2007 Tues, 25 Sep - Club Meeting at Mama s Café at San Pedro Ave. Eat: 6:30 Meeting:7:30. Sat, 29 Sep - Highway cleanup led by Jeff Holbrook. See article this issue. Sun, 7 Oct - Crocodile Gap Run led by Gene and Marcia Carlow. There will be a short and dinner prior to 9-11pm go- kart rumble. Details to follow. Sat, 13 Oct - Cuero Turkey Fest led by Paul and Judy Faulkner. Details to follow. Tue, 16 Oct - Tip Top Cool Press Putt-Putt led by George Lucas Details to follow. Sat, 20 Oct - Leakey and Beyond led by Larry Bader. 12:00 from the parking lot next to the Valero on Sh 16 amd Circle A Trail (about1 mile up 16 from 1604 and Bandera. Details in this issue. Tues, 23 Oct - Club Meeting at Mama s Café at San Pedro Ave. Eat: 6:30. Meeting:7:30. Tues, 30 Oct - Costume Hamburger Run led by Dave & Marilyn Hamilton. Details to follow. Sat, 3 ov - Tech Day hosted by Jack and Jeff Holbrook. See info this issue.