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In The BreezeIn The Breeze

November 2017 Official Newsletter of the Bluebonnet MX-5 Miata Club Still Free!

Special! In this issue! Chama Run 

and  

 

 

Recap and Photos 

Two years ago we trekked up to Alamogordo, New Mexico. While we had a blast seeing the White Sands, the Ski Apache mountain experience and breathtaking vistas all around, I was continuously asked, “Say George, when can we come see the Balloon Fiesta?” I had to laugh because it seems no matter where we go to head for the mountains, as it were, it seems to spur on more ideas and more places to go. Well, not one to shy away from a honest request, I decided to make going back to New Mexico to visit the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta the goal for 2017’s Head for the Mountains.

Auspicious, you ask? Well, I knew folks would love the Balloon Fiesta because this was about the 6th time I’ve been in attendance. Even though it was twenty years ago since I last took in the Fiesta, I was as excited at one that hasn’t ever been here before. The early rise time to get out to the balloons in time to see the scheduled Special Shapes balloons ascend didn’t seem to bother anyone as we had a big crowd that made it to our awaiting bus at the Park N’ Ride.

But I digress. The trip out of Texas is always the least fun of a trip to the mountains out west. But the payoff is almost always worth it. I always get excited when I know what is ahead is exciting and beautiful. And New Mexico fits that bill. We arrived in Ruidoso in time to get checked in and we scattered to dine. Most of us together, we enjoyed good food and even better company.

That long trip on the first day resulted in our second day trip to our destination, Albuquerque, an easy one. We rolled into the Hampton and I must say, any Hampton Inn seems like a second home for most of us.

Up early Friday morning, we went out to the Balloon Fiesta and the photos on the following pages attest to it’s beauty and gran-deur.

Many of us ate lunch on our own after the Balloons and a group of us had dinner that evening in Old Town Albuquerque at the Church Street Café.

The scheduled runs were scenic and long. We traveled through small towns, saw Indian celebrations, saw too few pit stops, and lots of beautiful fall colors on the Aspens and Cottonwoods.

The Sandia Peak Crest was particularly beautiful. From the top you could see the entire Albuquerque area! And the drive up? Well, some compared it to the Tail of the Dragon, just much less stressful.

The photos on the photo pages will reveal many of the sites we saw including the lava areas south of Albuquerque, which we found out had nothing to do with any volcanoes. Another exciting event for Marilyn and myself was visiting the cabin of Walt Longmire near Caldera, New Mexico. Longmire was a character in a successful TV series on A&E and later on Net Flix.

I could go on and on, but I’ll let the photos tell our story. But, I’ll finish by saying a big thank you to all that attended this years Head for the Mountains. We had lots of first timers and that’s always exciting. We also had guests Toni and Cindee Munro from Arizona and also had several Roadrunner Miata Club of Albuquerque helping us with the lay of the land around Albuquerque.

Where we’ll go next is anyone’s guess, but west Texas is a good guess. I’ll be working hard to offer new findings out near Alpine be-fore we plan on another longer trip to the mountains. Until then, keep on Zoomin’!

-George Lucas, Editor

Auspicious +Ambitious = A New Mexico Adventure Keeping a promise to see the Balloons

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Inside this Issue…

Head for the Mountains 7 Recap...………..…………...…………………………......………………………………………………………………Cover

Officers ………………………..…………………….....……………………………………………………………………………………………………….2

President’s Message………………………....…………..………..…………………………………………………………………………………………..3

Velocity Read from the Editor………………………..……………………………………………………………………………………………………...3

The Faulkner’s Chama Trip, Story and photos.…….………………………………………………………………………………………………….4, 5

HFTM Photos…….………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….6, 7

My new Miata and the Balloons, a story by Ed Polansky……..………………………………………………………………………………………..8

2017 Texas Miata Round Up..……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….9

BBMC Ladies Group………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….9

The Princesses Diaries………………………………….…………………………………………………………………………………………………..10

Remember When?................................................................................................................................................Back Page

Upcoming Runs and Events…..…………………….……………………...…………………………………..…Back Page

2017 Club Officers

President Gus Aguirre

president@bluebonnetmiata.org

Vice President Jim “Jimbo” Treat

vicepresident@bluebonnetmiata.org

Secretary Stephanie Turner

secretary@bluebonnetmiata.org

Treasurer Joe Knight

treasurer@bluebonnetmiata.org

Membership* Harry Maxwell

membership@bluebonnetmiata.org

Newsletter Editor* George Lucas

newsletter@bluebonnetmiata.org

Webmaster* Don Privett

webmaster@bluebonnetmiata.org

*appointed positions

Club Graphic Designer

Judi Privett

judi@bluebonnetmiata.org

Photo Contributors

Ed Smith, George Lucas, & Ed Polansky

Kathleen Quinn

San Antonio

1989 Classic Red

Welcome New Member!

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Presidents Message

Velocity Read Wow, when Marilyn and I returned from HFTM7, I was really tired. But, then, I thought...Geez, Marilyn just got back from here THIRD trip in the

last 3 months! SHE must really be tired! Well, she may be, but she was the ultimate trooper, never complaining for a second. Me? Well, the bulk of the

trip was pure pleasure and until our return trip, I drove all the weekend. I mention until our return trip, I fell victim to some kind of strange illness.

Light headed and dizzy, I had to turn the wheel over to Marilyn. When we got back to SA, my symtoms got worse as I saw breakfast a second time that day. Okay, enough about that.

I continue to be crazy about my new-to-me SE. The car performed perfectly the entire HFTM trip. I love all the bells and whistles it has. One really neat thing was my beloved Veelo was bought by a new member, John Allen. I

must admit it feels a bit strange seeing my last Miata among us. But, by the same token, it’s really cool.

Most everyone did their own thing coming back from New Mexico. Marilyn and I decided to take our time coming

back and see some sights we wanted to stop for on the way out. One such place was the lava area near San Anto-nio. We stopped and collected some ...er...free samples. :-)

Oh, goodness, I almost forgot. I touched on this in my front page story, but several of us were awe-struck by the visit to the Longmire cabin used in the popular Netflix series, Longmire. We got a special tour with one of the Park

rangers at the Caldera Visitors Center.

All in all, the entire Head for the Mountains 7 event was wonderful. I enjoyed seeing so many folks seeing things

for the first time as well as getting to visit with members whom I haven’t had a chance to get to know.

I have more exciting places in mind for future HFTM’s, stay tuned.

Zoom Zoom! George Lucas, Editor

It has been a great couple of months full of long distance runs. I believe everyone has had a great time. I really appreciate all the work the organizers did in order to have these successful runs. I want to wish you all a Happy Halloween and a very Happy Thanksgiving. The Christmas party is scheduled for Saturday December 9, 2017 at the YO Hotel in Kerrville. A block of rooms is available, please make your room reservations directly with the YO using the code “BLUEBONNET MIATA CHRISTMAS PARTY”. Din-ner cost is $ 31.11 per person (tax and gratuity included). Make your checks payable to the Bluebonnet Miata Club and give/send them to Marilyn Hamilton. Remember that elections will be held at the November meeting, and we need every-one’s vote.

Gus Aguirre, El Presidente

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Faulkner’s New Mexico-Colorado Miata Run 2017  

What a fun happening and timed for change of season leaf show it was!!

“Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower.” –Albert Camus

Paul and Judy Faulkner led seven other Miatas of Ed & Barbara Smith, Fred & Beth Still, David & Dorothy Wood, Linda Morrow, Marilyn McCullen, Joe & Cheryl Knight, and were joined later by Rich & Gail Sandenaw.

First stop was Junction, then Big Springs for lunch and next night at Amarillo and of course we had to participate at the Texan Steakhouse via the longhorn limousine. Traveling onward to Santa Fe where we visited the Loretto Chapel with the amazing free-standing, wooden staircase. We stayed the night at the Chama River Bend Lodge. These were cozy rooms with a steel bear-proof front door. That feature made us feel safe! We did not leave food in our cars. Outdoor party broke when Dorothy said she wanted to ride the buffalo statue.

Next day was spent riding the narrow gauge Cumbres & Toltec scenic railroad from Chama to Antonito and returned on a chartered bus. The trip showed off the landscape beautifully. Ed Smith our resident photographer, made some awesome pics. Also there were not too many bad pics on any camera. This was a photo opportu-nity of the tenth power. The ride included a scrumptious lunch at the remote train depot site. All food has to be shipped in. The fare was turkey n dressing, meatloaf, or salad and dessert was provided. This was a good and hearty meal.

The second day was coordinated by Cheryl Knight and we drove south of Chama to visit The Ghost Ranch and Abiqui to the house of Georgia O’Keeffe. The surrounding landscape and features were the subject of her paintings. The house was the way she left it just prior to her death. We thank Cheryl for that enlightening exploration.

Next travel was onward to Lake City, Co. via Wolf Creek Pass. Sights were in wonderful color along the way. We did encounter some rain but it was all good. We set camp in the Matterhorn Mountain Motel and by the way, they are open all year. These were nice cozy rooms and the owner was very impressed with all our Miatas. The next day we rented Jeeps and traveled up the mountainside to Cinnamon Pass, altitude 12,640 ft. It was a snowy scene and some animals were pictured along the way.

The next day we were each somewhat free to explore areas of choice. Some went to Gunnison (the G-spot), others went to the hospital, others visited in Lake City. We cannot forget the eateries that were all good as The Elkhorn Café (Chama) and Sweetshop, Packer Saloon & Cannibal Grill, Restless Spirit Saloon (Lake City). But the most fun stop and real surprise was offered by Linda Morrow on the way home at Sweetwater. Brenda Porter had recommended this eatery, Miss Allan’s Family Fried Chicken. What a treat!! It was family style. They seat the entire party and serve from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm for $10.00/person and $4.00/child. The bowls of food are in a continuous flow until you say stop. Platters of fried chicken, roast beef and bowls of potato salad/mashed potatoes, gravy, biscuits, fresh cooked squash, pinto beans, green beans, boiled okra, corn, pea salad, slaw and with tea or water – all one price. This was an amazing surprise. We thank you Brenda and Linda for that extraordi-nary treat that helped us through the long ride home.

This was one of those memorable rides. Thanks Paul!!

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Faulkner’s New Mexico-Colorado Miata Run 2017  

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My New Miata and the Balloons Well, I had been smitten by the new ND MX-5 styling, and was inspired by Rich Sandenaw who has purchased two of the new ND’s, but had no uncontrollable desire to commit to a new car until a chance meeting with George Lucas and Richard Cortez which occurred at a Subway, practically next door to North Park Mazda.

Richard, the Bluebonnet Miata Club dealership representative, happened to come in on us, and when he saw George he began exhort-ing the North Park’s current great deals on the 2017 Miatas. George, ever the influential, interrupted Richard’s spiel, and launched into what he was sure what I wanted, stimulating Richard to immediately described two perfect models he had in stock, both the RF and convertible, in a reflex blue mica (blue, by the way, is my favorite color). Before I knew it, I had an appointment the next morning, principally due to the fact that I was bringing in my 2012 GT for regular service. Was coincidence or fate at work?

Whatever it was, I drove both cars the next day, was convinced which one I wanted, but said I couldn’t decide without having my wife agree (for domestic tranquility purposes, that is). After all, my Miata was only 5 years old and had only 34,000 miles on it…I felt a bit guilty even thinking about getting another one. But it was such a great deal! Because he didn’t want to lose a customer, Richard of-fered to let me have the car that evening so I could show it to Helenan. I couldn’t say no, could I? So I brought it home, then I got Mark Hungerman (and his critical eye) and George to look over the car and the deal. I was hooked, I’m sure they could tell!

It didn’t take much encouraging, but Mark, George, and Helenan all said, in effect, “go for it”. Mark and George encouraged me to get it for the Balloon trip, which would start in just few days later. Stick a fork in me, I’m done! So staring at a quick deadline, I zipped through the purchase, got it made ready, obtained a new nose mask (the new term of the “bra”), worked around the fact that I had less packing space than my 2012. And was ready for a long trip in a brand new, untried, vehicle…never have done that before.

Ok, about the trip, it was fantastic; the balloon experience was wonderfully entertaining (it’s never boring even though we’ve been to the Balloon Fiesta 3 times before); the runs around Albuquerque and Santa Fe were delightful; and the scenery was exquisite and un-forgettable. And George, in his eccentric ways, provided a highly pleasing trip, although he tried to apologize for the quirky happenings because he planned it remotely from over 700 miles away.

In conclusion, I can’t convey how much I am enjoying my new Miata (uh, MX-5, that is, I can’t get used to that). The car reminds me a lot of my first roadster, the Honda S-2000, in its color scheme, styling, and handling. But I will always have a Miata…at least until they take myHot keys away! Thanks, George, for the new car and a terrific trip despite some quirky things happening along the way!

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EVENTS Thursday: Early Bird Run to be determined

Friday: Registration 10 am - 6 pm

Photo Op at Hotel

Austin Attractions Run (self led) - Explore the many quirks of our State Capitol from the Cathedral of Junk, shopping in SOCO, cruising down 360 over the Pennybacker bridge, and our own Lime Creek for some curvatious roads.

Run to Jester King

Parking Lot Social (Concourse de Zoom Zoom)

Saturday

Convoy to San Antonio for AutoX event (6 AM-2 PM) hosted by SASCA, there will be a $40 (cash) fee payable to SASCA to compete in this event.

The following events will take place during the AutoX for those who do not wish to participate.

Beer and Spirits Run - This run features Hays County liba-tions where Buda is located. This will include assorted win-eries, breweries, and distilleries. Lunch spot TBD based on group size.

Toll Road BBQ Run - Start by heading Northbound on the Toll past Austin to the tiny town of Ding Dong, Texas. From there you'll encounter scenic country roads that snake along the Lampasas River. Destination is Stephenville for Hard 8 BBQ.

Shop to you drop - Just south of Buda is the San Marcos Outlet Malls. If one feels the need to stuff your small trunks to the brim with designer clothing...this is your run! Lunch-eon TBD based on group size

Saturday Evening Events 7:30 PM - Banquet (PinnBallz Kingdom) 10:00 - Boot Scoot Boogie (Dance Across Texas) Sunday: Check out Hotel by 10 AM

North, South, East, West Brunch Runs

LOCATI O N

The Hotel will be the "Holiday Inn Express in Buda" Let them know you're attending the "2017 Statewide Miata Round up.

Address: 15295 I-35, Buda, TX 78610

Phone: 512-295-8040

Grab Bag with T-Shirt and Round Up Swag for each attendee (Grab Bag Deadline 9/30/17

November 2-5 / 2017

$75 Per person

The Ladies Club took a break this month, but the next Ladies Getogether is November 2nd!

Check the calendar or watch your Yahoo Groups email for details!

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The Princess Diaries ...or things you should know by Cheryl Knight (The Princess)

A Year in Review

While the year isn’t over and the activities still abound, I wanted to take a moment to acknowledge all of the members that have participated in orga-nizing activities for the club. Thank you to all those that have organized events this year! The club continues to enjoy the experience of the “regulars”, members that lead runs and events year after year: George Lucas and Marilyn McCullen, Paul and Judy Falkner, Gayle and Rich Sandenaw, Gus and Peggy Aguirre, Mark Hungerman, Stephanie Turner, Jim Treat, Dave and Marilyn Hamilton, Ed and Barbara Smith, Dan and Betty Hicks, George Briscoe, the entire Holbrook Clan, Mike and Betty Jackson, and of course yours truly – Cheryl and Joe Knight! Please don’t be offended if I left any “regulars” off the list – I scanned the calendar thoroughly, but may have missed you.

A special thanks to Barbara Thompson for ensuring there were plans and hostesses for all the Miata Ladies events this year. There was quite a variety of experiences offered and it was a nice way for the women in the group to drive their Miata’s and have some girl time.

Now, there are several of you I want to give a special shout out and congratulations to – you all have led your first organized run for the club this year. CONGRATULATIONS!!!

Craig and his son Jared Martin led the Birthday and Anniversary Run Ed and Helenan Polansky led the Dinner Run to PO PO’s Robin Kendall led the Fun Gun Run Pam and Larry Stivers led the Del Lago Al Rio Run Teresa Marie and Dorothy Oakes led the Bat Out of Hell Run

These club members did a great job, stretched and gave of themselves to provide unique and fun experiences for the rest of us. Please give them a pat on the back – it is well deserved. AND I hope you all consider adding a second run to the 2018 calendar.

Now I offer a challenge to the rest of you: JOIN THE FUN – LEAD A RUN

Next month look for the Master Miata Run Checklist. It will include tips for the following:

Following YOUR inspiration to choose what you do, where you go, etc. Mapping out and testing the route Choosing the start time and location Finding the best pit stops and working with the venue you’ve picked Scheduling and communicating to the club Holding the Drivers Meeting Roles and Responsibilities for Run Leader, Sweep, Relay, and Run Participants

Then in January, attend the calendar planning meeting (date to be announced), and schedule a run!

Zoom Zoom

Cheryl Knight

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Please, Don’t forget our Sponsors!

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Check your mailing label for your renewal date.

Please renew your membership promptly!

In The BreezeIn The Breeze

Bluebonnet Miata Club

San Antonio, Texas http://www.bluebonnetmiata.org

To join club or renew dues, open the above web site and click on the membership tab

Upcoming Runs and Events

Saturday, October 28th, Hiway Clean Up. Meet at the Miata Valero at 8 a.m. This is our quarterly Adopt A High-way clean up along Hwy 1863 near 2009. Jeff Holbrook organizes this event. See you all there!

Saturday, October 28th, Dave & Marilyn Hamilton will team up with Rohm & Barbara Thompson to lead a Halloween Run to the Stars & Stripes Drive-In Theatre in New Braunfels. Prizes will be awarded for the Funni-est, Scariest and Sexiest Costumes. In addition, there will be a prize for the best decorated car. The group will meet at the Buc-ee's Gas Station located at 2760 N. Interstate 35 (Exit 191) in New Braunfels. Snacks will be provided. The thea-tre also offers a nice inexpensive menu of tasty eats! The meeting and departure times, as well as additional information, will be provided at a later date. 1st Update: Barbara Thompson has arranged for the club cars to be admitted 30 minutes before the theater actually opens. This will allow us to have parking spaces together and will give us ample time for costume and car judging. Cars can be decorated once we arrive at the Drive-In. It will also allow us extra time for visiting, laughing and exploring. Bar-bara is also working on obtaining a special entrance fee for us. Check out this site for some information on the facil-ity: http://driveinusa.com/nb/ Additional details will be provided at a later date

Thursday, November 2nd, Lunar Zoomers Dinner, hosted by George Lucas. Location TBA, watch your email and check the websites calendar soon!

Friday, November 3-Sunday, November 5. 2017 Statewide Miata Round Up. Check the Tejas Miata Club’s web-site for further details.

Saturday, November 11th, Cornucopia Craze Run, let by Lisa and Craig Martin. Details TBA soon! Watch your email and check the calendar on our website for details.

Saturday, November 18th, Leaky Run, led by Jimbo Treat. –Details of this run are not yet available. Please watch your emails and check the calendar on our website.

Tuesday, November 28th, Monthly Meeting at Bigz Burger Joint. Meet at 6:30 p.m. and meeting starts at 7:00 p.m.

Remember When?