Volume 61 Issue 08 August 2020
New Member Profiles 986/987 Gas Pedal Modification Car Activities during COVID
Chesapeake Region
Events Calendar / Porsche in the News Month
Day
Event
Venue
August
14
Cancelled: WERKS Reunion
Monterey, CA
20
Patter input due to Editors
editor@pcachs.org
29
Cancelled: Crab Feast and Social
Monrovia, MD
12
PCA Open House
PCA Headquarters, Columbia, MD
12
Cancelled: Autocross #6
Ripkin Stadium, Aberdeen, MD
16
PCA Chesapeake Board Meeting
PCA Headquarters, Columbia, MD
16 - 19
Treffen Greenbrier
White Sulphur Springs, WV
18 - 19
PCA Club Race
Summit Point Raceway, Summit Point, WV
20
Patter input due to Editors
editor@pcachs.org
23
Social (tentative)
TBA
26
Cancelled: Autocross #7
Ripking Stadium, Aberdeen, MD
September
Porsche in the News New Porsche 911 Turbo S vs Taycan Turbo S: DRAG RACE! (Source: Motor1.com)
Was the Porsche 924 A Success? (Source: Jalopnik.com)
Porsche Taycan Vs BMW M8 Gran Coupe Drag Race Is Not Even Close (Source: Motor1.com) 5 Cars of the 1980s You Should Be Buying Right Now (Source: Autoweek.com)
Member Support Do you know a Porsche Club member that could use a little sunshine? Please let us know. The Club has established a new Sunshine position. If you know a Club member who is ill, has a hospital stay, a family member has passed, or is facing some difficult or challenging times, we would like send a card to let them know the Club is thinking about them. Please contact Doug Ehmann at Sunshine@pcachs.org. Thanks! 2
Chesapeake Region
Inside This Month! Club Info
Events Calendar 2020 Tour & Rally Schedule Membership & Anniversaries PCACHS Board Member Directory
Features
President’s Message History Channel PCA-Style Racing News Porsche in the News Autocross
Articles
The Lighter Side Boxster Gas Pedal Modification Car Activities During COVID
Member Profiles Ken Wilmers
Market
Mark & Donna Metzger
Ridgely Mckinless
Sim Racing PCA PSAs / FYI: Tech Library Name & Car Badges / PCACHS Jackets PCA License Plates / PCA Juniors Classified Ad: 2012 Cayenne Turbo
The Porsche Patter is the official newsletter of the Chesapeake Region of the Porsche Club of America. Contributions to the Porsche Patter should be sent by the 20th of the month preceding the month of publication in Microsoft Word format to editor@pcachs.org. Please send images in their original dimensions and resolution. Editors: John D. Lewis, Larry Robinson, Tristan Hinkley, James Beavan III, Ridgley Mckinless; Contributing Photographers: Lynda Sobus, Aniano Arao, Al Saxon, Bob Zach; Contributing Writers: Bob Rassa, Aniano Arao, Mark Miller, Greg Hartke. Advertising: For questions about advertising rates and placement in the Porsche Patter, please contact Editors at editor@pcachs.org. Unless otherwise reserved, permission is granted to reproduce material published, provided full credit is given to the Porsche Patter and to the respective author. Subscriptions: join the Porsche Club of America — www.pca.org. The Porsche Patter is published monthly by the Chesapeake Region, Porsche Club of America. Subscription is limited to members of the Chesapeake Region, Porsche Club of America.
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2020 Tour & Rally Schedule Aniano Arao and Randy Moss
PCA Chesapeake’s Driving Events on Hold
PCA Chesapeake’s Tour & Rally Committee has several events on the calendar for 2020, but they will remain on hold until further notice because of the pandemic emergency. Dates and events are subject to change. Registration for most events will open 2 to 4 weeks before their scheduled dates. We will have no 3-day West Virginia Grand Tour this year. We are postponing Bob Rassa’s TSD rally for now. Log on to your account at www.motorsportreg.com to sign up once events are scheduled. (Ver. 7, 07/22/20. Photo: Aniano Arao) April 18
(0) Drive to Porsche Swap Meet in Hershey, PA – CANCELED due to COVID-19 emergency
May 16-17
(1) Allegheny Mountains Tour in PA, with guest tour master Ron Farb -- POSTPONED
June 6
(2) Allegheny Mountains Tour in PA, with guest tour master Ron Farb -- CANCELED
July 18
(3) West Virginia Tour, 1 day -- CANCELED; Southern Maryland Tour – CANCELED
Aug. 2
(4) Ice Cream Tour, with guest tour master Steve Graham -- CANCELED
Sept. 5
(5) Off-Road Tour, Catoctin Mountain, with guest tour master Jim Hemig -- CANCELED
Oct. 3
(6) Chesapeake Challenge Gimmick Rally
Oct. 25
(7) Fall Colors Tour No. 1 (rain date Oct. 24)
Oct. 31
(8) Fall Colors Tour No. 2 (rain dates Nov. 1, 7 or 8)
Dec. 6
(9) “Kindertime & Giving Back – Linda’s Legacy” Driving Tour, Baltimore County
Check details about our events on www.pcachs.org, www.motorsportreg.com and in Patter. To join our registry and receive event notifications via e-mail, please send your request to tour@pcachs.org. -- Aniano Arao & Randy Moss, Co-Chairs, Tour & Rally Committee
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PCA-CHS is... The Chesapeake Region of the Porsche Club of America (PCACHS) serves it’s club members and hosts activities within the Baltimore, Annapolis and surrounding geographic area, including Maryland’s Eastern Shore. The general objectives of PCACHS are, as indicated in the by-laws: •
Promote the highest standards of courtesy and safety on the roads.
•
Promote the enjoyment and sharing of goodwill and fellowship engendered by owning a Porsche vehicle and engaging in such social or other events as may be agreeable to the membership.
•
Promote the maintenance of the highest standards of operation and performance of the marquee by sharing and exchanging technical and mechanical information.
•
Establish and maintain mutually beneficial relationships with Porsche AG, Porsche Cars North America (PCNA), Porsche dealers, and other independent service sources to the end that the marque shall prosper and continue to enjoy its unique leadership and position in sports car annals.
•
Promote the interchange of ideas and suggestions with other PCA Regions throughout North America and the world, and in such cooperation as may be desirable.
•
Establish such mutually cooperative relationships with other car clubs as may be desirable.
•
Establish a community service initiative with the goal of engaging members to participate in activities that benefit the community through fundraising or volunteering of time.
Cover Photo: Multiple Sources
The Porsche Patter is published monthly. Articles from members are welcomed and encouraged and should be sent electronically in Microsoft Word format to editor@pcachs.org at least 1 week before the end of the month preceding publication. The editor reserves the right to edit or reject all material submitted for publication, including advertisements, and the right to cancel advertisements at any time, for any reason, at the editor’s sole discretion. Statements appearing in the Porsche Patter are those of the contributing authors and do not constitute the opinions or policy of the Chesapeake Region, Porsche Club of America, its Board of Directors, or the editor of this newsletter. Unless otherwise reserved, permission is granted to reproduce material published, provided full credit is given to the author. The Chesapeake Region, Porsche Club of America, neither endorses any advertiser nor warrants any product or service.
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Membership & Anniversaries Committee Chair Report: Membership - July 2020 STATISTICS Chesapeake Region Membership Primary Members: 921 Affiliate Members: 526
Life Members: 1 Total Members: 1448
New Members (11) Edwin Aguilar Kishan Amarasekera Bryan Combs Jameson DeSalu David & Kyle Fultz Morgan & Robert House Sarah Mascaro Ridgely McKinless Joshua Metzger
Test Drivers (2) Jim Adams, Bel Air, MD Toni Stone, Ellicott City, MD James Turner, Davidsonville, MD
Anniversaries 20 Years Don & Nancy Malson Bryan & Leslie Moore 15 Years Bryan & Leslie Moore 10 Years Joseph & Julia Anisko David & Kathy Arnold Rick and Gloria Merriken Charles Wilmarth
Ellicott City, MD Columbia, MD Westminster, MD Baltimore, MD Highland, MD Gambrills, MD Columbia, MD Towson, MD Manchester, MD
1992 968, Black 1986 944, Grey 1986 944, Guards Red 2000 Boxster S, Black 1987 944, Red 1955 356 1998 Boxster
PCA Juniors: 74 Member Renewals: 30 Non-Renewals: 18 Transfers In: 0
Transfers In (2) Joseph J. Anisko ← California Central Coast (CCC) John Bunch ← Transfer From: Everglades (EGS)
Transfers Out (3) Everette Goins → Northern New Jersey (NNJ) Robert H. Heller → Delaware (DEL) Michael J. Snyder → Orange Coast (ORC)
5 Years Johan & Scott Trumpy Peter von Pawel 1 Year Joshua & Samantha Breger Wendy Flick Kevin Gibson Larry Guttman Benjamin Lewis Nicholas Kurlick
Brian & Traci Machi Kim Powell Dan Ruddick Lucas Tyssowski Clarke Van Slice Ellen Williams Mark Williams
Full Membership Committee Reports can be found on our website: https://pcachs.org/ Please excuse us for any inconsistencies in reports as PCA HQ continues to improve our system
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Passion for Cars & Driving
James B. Beavan III
What can we do with our passion for cars and driving during the current shut down? This is an excellent question with a number of options opening up the last month or so. Like most of the country PCA Chesapeake has suspended all activities since March. Like you I miss the tech events, official tours to a lunch destinations, autocross, and Porsche dealership sponsored new member events, etc. One option you’ve had is to simply take your Porsche out for a drive on your own schedule, which is a lot of fun in itself. However, many people have been getting together in small groups (4-10 cars) for 1-2 hour drives around the local area. These drives allow for social distancing while still having fun driving your car in a group setting, often times on back roads you haven’t driven before. If you would like to join a local tour please send an email to tour@pcachs.org. You’ve probably noticed that most Cars & Coffee events are now running on a regular schedule with normal levels of turnout. Annapolis C&C is every Sunday morning at the City Dock starting around 8AM, but arrive earlier as parking is limited. Burtonsville C&C is also every Sunday morning at the Burtonsville Crossing Shopping Center from 8-10AM. Every other Sunday from 8-10AM at the Harris Teeter in Clarksburg MD is the Clarksburg C&C with August dates of 8/9 & 8/23. For you Saturday morning folks there is the big daddy of them all, Hunt Valley Horsepower which runs from 8-10AM every Saturday with a large turnout. All of these events can be found on their own Facebook pages or via web search. Lastly, if you are feeling more adventurous, some of the regions surrounding us have started running events of their own. As a PCA member you may usually attend events hosted by any region. I know Potomac is running DE, Autocross and tours currently with limited capacity and safety regulations in effect. PS. None of the above described events are sponsored or endorsed by PCA Chesapeake region and facial coverings are highly recommended.
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President’s Message Vincent Rock Greetings Chesapeake, I am hopeful that everyone has been able to find enjoyment and a respite from the current environment in their Porsche(s). It is difficult to watch the numbers of COVID-19 cases increasing in Maryland and around the country. While the increases in Maryland appear to be less severe than other states, we have decided to cancel all events through September 30th that would have face-to-face elements. We are all hopeful that we will be able to resume normal events as soon as will safely allow, and we will continue to monitor the situation and make any adjustments as new information becomes available. We are currently exploring options, and the feasibility of how a virtual Chesapeake Challenge would work or Concours event. Doug Ehmann, Ron Gordon, and Donna Brandt have been exploring plans of both a virtual and drive-through Concours event, and Minta Miller is exploring the logistics of incorporating all the events and most importantly, scoring and trophies from a normal Challenge into a virtual event. Jim Earlbeck and Randy Richter are also exploring options for Tech and possibly with virtual garage tours. If you have suggestions, ideas, aspects of the events that are important to you or you would like to see, please do not hesitate to send an email to the Board as a whole at board@pcachs.org or the respective committee who’s email can be found at pcachs.org/about-us/officers/ Please make sure to monitor our calendar for any changes and make sure to “like” our Region’s Facebook page. I would like to thank everyone for their support and understanding in working through the current situation. I hope everyone is staying safe, and I hope to see you all soon at our next event. Thank you!
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Chesapeake Region
Boxster 986/987 Gas Pedal Mod Richard Townsend If you drive an early Boxster you may have noticed that using a HEEL-TOE technique to downshift while cornering is pretty doggone tricky. The stock pedal layout is less than ideal for this standard racing nuance. I presume this was done by Porsche in the interest of leg room, as the gas pedal is farther away than the brake/ clutch pedals, allowing a bit more room while cruising. There are some custom pedals on the market, however I decided to modify mine without adding a high-tech brushed metal appearance. I constructed a simple black panel which I added to the face to my existing pedal using 1/2 inch plywood and thin rubber anti-slip mat sourced from McMaster-Carr although usually sold by the foot at Home Depot too. I used #6 screws. Here are the steps that I used to achieve this 1. I snipped out a template for what I guessed should be the shape of the new pedal using corrugated cardboard, and marked the rough positions of obstructions on the back of the pedal. and taped it to the existing pedal using double faced tape.
2. Once I was satisfied with the width and shape of the template (basically a guess), I cut a piece of half inch plywood to match the shape of the template. I found it was necessary to taper the lower part of the wood to conform to the pedal (see picture). Sandpaper on a block or a plane will do the trick. 3. I removed the E-GAS (post 2002) pedal unit by disassembling it in the foot well of the car. One screw holds the entire unit to the floor. I removed said screw from the upper left corner, the pedal unit could then be pulled away from the floorboard (to disengage a lug keyed into the floor), and wiggled skyward until it was free. It was then dangling on the actuation cable. At this time I disassembled the pedal assembly by removing five (?) screws on the right side of the assembly and popping two clips at the top and bottom, after which I wiggled the two housing halves apart. Then I brought the parts to my workbench. NOTE: removing the drivers seat would make this job a lot easier but remember to disconnect the negative pole of the battery first so as not to trigger the airbag warning light.
4. I drilled four holes through the existing gas pedal (5 including a goof), carefully choosing places where a nut on the back would not foul the pedal action. Then through the wooden pedal. The screws were countersunk and adjusted to length then epoxied to the wood and allowed to harden overnight. Super glue would also work well here. This allows the nuts to be loosened in the
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Chesapeake Region
Boxster Gas Pedal Mod (cont’d) future without having the screws rotate, making it necessary to destroy the rubber cover (see step 5). 5. The edges of the plywood were then spray-painted black. Rubber was scuffsanded to offer some tooth for the glue before I super-glued the rubber to the face and trimmed it around with a razor. Mounted the new wood pedal with nuts using medium Loctite. Don't skip this!
6. I then practiced reassembling the unit on my bench to ensure smooth operation and improve my Braille. I cleaned and lubricated the moving parts using grease that is rated for plastic (Krytox or‌) and then replaced the unit into the car, assembling it in the foot well (ug). Be patient and be sure the rubber dust boot is seated nicely and the cable is not twisted. I used a small mirror and flashlight to see some aspects. 7. I took a careful test drive to be sure I did not encounter any problems and to assure smooth action. Done! This mod made a nice difference, and I now find it possible have my foot securely on the brake while tapping the gas for a blip. A huge improvement, although time will tell if I got the dimensions of the pedal just right.
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New Member Profile: Ken Wilmers James B. Beavan III
Current Car: 1987 Porsche 944 When it came time to buy a vehicle, what made you choose your Porsche and is this your first Porsche? This is my first Porsche, although my family has had Boxster’s and Cayman's. I wanted a 944 since I first rode in one back in the 80's. Funny story - I was sitting outside at Starbucks when Bob Miller drives up in a pristine Mercedes. So I started talking to him about cars and I mentioned that I was looking to buy a corvette as a weekend car. He asked me how about a Porsche? I said - well the 944 has been my favorite and has been on my wish list for years. He then mentioned his affinity for Porsche's and mentioned that he happens to have one for sale. Needless to say I was extremely interested. I went to check it out and it was in great condition and all original. I test drove it on a Tuesday and it was mine by that Friday. What a great chance encounter, loving every minute of it!!!!! What encouraged you to join the Porsche Club of America? I also ride a Harley and belong to the local HOG (Harley Owners Group) Chapter. In fact, I was the past Director. So I joined the PCA to get the same comradery with a group of Porsche owners. It has been a rewarding experience so far. In the short time I have been a member, I feel I have made some great friends already. As a new member of PCA Chesapeake are there any particular events you are interested in participating in or would like more information on (we also take suggestions)? I would like to take in an Autocross one day, although my car is 33 years old. It would be fun to do a weekend drive somewhere with other Porsche owners. Have you attended a New Member party at one of our three local sponsoring dealerships (if not that should be on your list for 2020)? I did attend a new member event at Porsche of Annapolis, good event. Anything additional you would like to share about yourself: So far everyone I have meet has been great and friendly. I am looking forward to attending additional events when we are over the Covid situation.
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New Member Profile: Mark & Donna Metzger James B. Beavan III
Current Car: 2017 Porsche 718 Cayman When it came time to buy a vehicle, what made you choose your Porsche and is this your first Porsche? The car’s styling, history, and performance. This is our first Porsche, although we have had a Porsche 911 poster for 20 years. What encouraged you to join the Porsche Club of America? We have been members of other car clubs and enjoyed the driving and social events. As a new member of PCA Chesapeake are there any particular events you are interested in participating in or would like more information on (we also take suggestions)? We enjoy the driving and social events. We have not participated in an Autocross event so are looking forward to participating in one. Have you attended a New Member party at one of our three local sponsoring dealerships (if not that should be on your list for 2020)? No – but we plan to. Anything additional you would like to share about yourself: We currently live in Chester, MD on Kent Island and enjoy boating, bikes, and cars. Yes – we would be interested in knowing more about volunteer opportunities.
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New Member Profile: Ridgely Mckinless James B. Beavan III
Current Car: 1998 Porsche Boxster When it came time to buy a vehicle, what made you choose your Porsche and is this your first Porsche? I was bit by the Porsche bug when I got behind the wheel of my uncle's 991.1 Cabriolet about five years ago. That drive converted me in just a few minutes. After that, I knew I would never willingly buy a front-engine car again. Fast forward a few years, and after graduating college I decided I'd treat myself with my very own Porsche. I had my heart set on a 996. After months of searching, I kept seeing Boxster's at half or even a third of the price of a comparable 996. My curiosity got the best of me, and I started considering 986's as well. Then I found someone who had two Boxster’s and was willing to sell either. They were both 1998's with the 2.5L, but I fell in love with this one because of the 'Boxster Red' interior and turbo twist wheels...so I pulled the trigger! What encouraged you to join the Porsche Club of America? A friend of mine invited me to a meet & greet event at Porsche of Towson last year. I thoroughly enjoyed the cars and company, and wanted to be a part of future events. At the time, I hadn't found a Porsche yet, so I joined as a test-drive member! The classifieds were a big help during my search. As a new member of PCA Chesapeake are there any particular events you are interested in participating in or would like more information on (we also take suggestions)? For me, the two types of events I'm most looking forward to are the 1-2 day tours to interesting places in the region, and the autocross events! I'd love to learn better car control and the limits of my car. Have you attended a New Member party at one of our three local sponsoring dealerships (if not that should be on your list for 2020)? It was one of these events that got me to join the club in the first place! Anything additional you would like to share about yourself: I'm into German cars and German beer, so if any of you want to go for a drive and have a bier, let me know! Let's just get the driving done before the drinking ;)
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Classified Ad: 2012 Cayenne Turbo 2012 Porsche Cayenne Turbo, Meteor Gray Metallic, Espresso/ Cognac 2-tone leather interior, 80,050 miles: $28,500 OBO Contact James Beavan 301-535-7380 or beavanjb@hotmail.com Also Listed on Cargurus.com This 500 horsepower 2012 Porsche Cayenne Turbo. Comes with Porsche 21" summer wheels with newer tires. Always garage kept and well maintained, records included. Features include 2-tone full leather interior with aluminum accents, intelligent cruise control, heated front/rear seats, cooled front seats, power lift gate, tow package, roof rails, Bose stereo with Bluetooth audio, memory power driver & passenger seats, Panoramic Moon roof with power sunshade. New transfer case installed by Porsche 2 years ago. Lane change control module doesn't work but can be replaced if desired. Original MSRP $126,770. PPI's are welcome, Porsche Silver Spring and Autobahn Pro are within 15-minutes of me. VIN: WP1AC2A28CLA84321 Also for sale will be a set of winter 18" Porsche wheels and tires if interested.
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History Channel PCA-Style Bob Rassa A monthly feature depicting some highlights from past years, 50, 40, 30, 20, 10 years ago 40 years ago (August 1980) founds this writer still President, and the presidential patter focused on the justcompleted 13th Chesapeake Challenge, which was one of the best ever. Special guests at the event were Lou Marable, a former National PCA President and before that, an American Airlines Captain, and Ashley Carroll, a former National PCA Treasurer [both were good friends of mine, both long-deceased unfortunately]. Asley and Lou were also guests at the Region’s monthly meeting, at the [now-closed] Steak-and-Ale in Timonium. The 1980 Challenge used 3 hotels this time [we have forgotten why that was] but that didn’t seem to matter – attendance was way up, and the banquet meals were excellent. New members were announced; Clay Gorman, Charles Rehm, Randy Hall, Charles Lewis, and Elliott Hall. A repeat piece from Brian Lee of Potomac Region talked about the Carter administration [the peanut farmer from Georgia, remember?] is suggesting cooperation with European auto manufacturers. He noted that GM was developing some very small cars to try to better compete with the European and Japanese manufacturers, so that by 1985 the US Big Three will have cars competing head-on with the imports. [remember that the 1st gas crisis started Thanksgiving weekend 1973 and the 2nd one hit in 1979]. Brian also noted that the MG marque was now gone for good. Area representatives were highlighted as Ray Chlan, Baltimore; Steve Heyse, Columbia, and Brenda White, Annapolis. 30 years ago found Dennis Howard still swinging the gavel, and he announced that the monthly meetings were being moved to Snyder’s Willow Grove restaurant on Hammond’s Ferry road in Glen Burnie [which closed in Nov 2019 after 83 years in business] in order to attract more members from our southern areas. Chesapeake Challenge 22 was announced for Sept 14-16, 1990 at the Sheraton Towson with the Concours d’Elegance at Goucher College and the autocross at Towson State University, and the victory brunch and awards at the Eagle’s Nest at Towson Golf and Country Club. We were still getting major sponsors for the event, as Bridgestone agreed to sponsor the autocross. The annual crab feast was also announced for Sunday August 12 at Walt and Rubye’s bayside home on the eastern shore in Stevensville, MD. Finally, it was noted by Bob Gutjahr that Porsche’s 3-year commitment to CART racing, including the Indianapolis 500, under Quaker State Oil sponsorship was ending, due to withdrawal of sponsorship, lack of success and perhaps too much arrogance. Finally, results of the Wee Weissach autocross results were recorded [this is the jointlysponsored event in Harrisburg by Chesapeake and Central Penn Regions] and Gary Wigglesworth had FTD in his modified 914-6. And the Mar noted a restored ’64 356C coupe, loaded, for the cool sum of $13,500 [oh wow – it would go for between $70k and $100k today] 20 years ago we see that Gene Fiero is still the Region leader, and we were meeting in August at Valley Motors [the new Timonium location north of Padonia Rd, hence dropping of “Towson” from the name] but in September at Peerce’s Plantation [where we used to meet decades ago]. 24 new members were announced as the club continued to grow, with Don and Nancy Malson the only names we recognize. Membership was at an all-time high of 563 members! The August 4 midnight autocross at Hunt Valley Mall was highlighted. Manny Alban was Zone 2 rep and he recounted his drive to the Sacramento Parade in his 4-year-old Chevy Suburban towing his ’73 914. His observations: Nebraska, Iowa, Wyoming and Nevada are much too big, with
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History Channel (cont’d) the same fields, cattle and road signs for 400 miles in each state; don’t drive cross-country in a gas crisis; Concours d’Elegance participation at Parades is on an upswing; use only one hotel at a Parade; the autocross was the mother of all autocrosses as Manny got into 5th gear in his 85-bhp 914, but noted that if the wind had been blowing the other way he would only have managed 4th; do not host Parades where you need tents for meals [this Parade did not use tents!]; SUV is not a nice word as the new Cayenne is drawing very mixed responses; PCA people are the best; the “how many Parades” thing at Parades is a favorite; and get ready for the 50th Parade in Hershey. The Region’s first annual Braille Rally and Car Show held in July and starting at Oregon Ridge Park was reported, and it was a huge success with 28 teams participating from 3 Regions. The event raised over $17,000 for the Maryland School for the Blind. Potomac Region’s DE [driver’s ed] events at Summit Point in June and Watkins Glen in July were reported, with a dozen Chesapeakers participating including Manny Alban, Dennis Howard, Andrew Toth, Dan & Dennis Cignatta. Dennis was an instructor, and an interesting photo included showed Dennis kneeling and praying before climbing into the 993 passenger seat of student Chip Rosse’ [so Dennis, was he THAT bad of a driver?] Finally, the annual crab feast was announced for late August at Downs Memorial Park in Pasadena, MD. The cost? A mere $15. Bob Rassa Region Historian
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Autocross Greg Hartke As I reported last month, Potomac held an AX in mid-June at Summit Point Motorsports Park, which I and other CHS members attended. POT held a second AX on August 1st at Summit Point, which I also attended. As at the last event, there were significant restrictions in place (face masks were required, of course, among a whole host of restrictions and requirements) to help keep everyone safe. My observation was that everyone treated the situation quite seriously and remained respectful of the requirements imposed by the organizers. I don’t think I saw even one example of anyone deliberately ignoring the rules. The course was designed by John Clay and it was lots of fun, fast and interesting. For comparison, a really fast time at the last POT SP AX was in the low 50’s sec, but a fast time at this event was in the mid- to high-30’s. Same venue, but a faster course. A little variety isn’t a bad thing! At the last POT AX, we had over 70 participants, but this event found us with only 45 and a dearth of POT AX Committee participants to run the event. Even so, we managed. Steve Bobbitt (POT AX Co-chair) originally decided to do 8 runs due to the limited number of entrants (we were really flying!), but changed that to 6 runs with fun runs after the event in order to make sure we finished before any rain appeared. As it turned out, we had a short period of light rain during the second part of the first heat, but it was otherwise dry and we finished the competition around 2:00 PM. Not too shabby! This event gave me a chance to catch up with a few friends, but because of the restrictions on congregating, the interactions were decidedly limited. (SP now requires that racing participants stay with their cars or in the paddock when not actually racing.) Marcy Calcagno was present, though she was there strictly as a helper (which deserves special kudos). Pam Clay was also there and I haven’t seen her in like forever. What I remember most about Pam was the excellent slalom advice she gave me when I did the POT AX School back in the spring of 2016 right after buying my Cayman S. Smilin’ Mark Hubley was there and of course he was smiling, though he had reason not to be. Poor Mark, he missed almost all of last season with mechanical problems, but finally got the car running properly again with a new engine installed. So what happened? He told me he was at a DE event a couple of weeks ago (Road America, IIRC) when his engine blew up. Oh no! What else could go wrong for poor Mark??? The car is in the shop now being evaluated and he told me that if the repair runs more than a certain amount, he was going to cut his losses. In fact, he sat in my 2014 981 Cayman S to evaluate the car for fit. (Mark is 6’ 4”, IIRC.) Steve Bobbitt was kind enough to let Mark drive his wellprepared car for the event and he did well, but I’m sure the opportunity was bittersweet. Dave Critcher was also there and it was great to catch up with him again – haven’t seen him since last year. For those of you that don’t know Dave, he’s a great guy and a superb driver, one of the top CHS AX’ers. He’s also a fabulous instructor, so count yourself fortunate if you get him in your car when you request an instructor at one of our events. Marcus Frank was there with his re-engined (and re-suspensioned) 987 Cayman, but he told me he had a rev limit of 5300 right now because the engine isn’t fully broken in yet. Like me, Marcus struggled at first because he was out of practice, but he was getting back
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Autocross (cont’d) into by the end of his runs. He still has a lot of work ahead to dial in the suspension, but he’s really looking forward to seeing what the changes will do for him. Next up is an ECU tune to get his ride up to the magic 400 bhp level. He’s really going to have fun when he has it all sorted out and ready to go! Tell you what… I’m finding it really hard to get up to my usual level of racing due to lack of practice. Worse, I totally blew my first run when I lost concentration shortly after entering the course and was so far off that I simply exited the course ASAP instead of continuing. There were many reasons why that happened, but the result was that I really only had 5 runs instead of 6 after such an egregious error. D’oh! I was pretty bad to start with, but was getting it back by the end. Unfortunately, losing that first run really cost me a chance to be competitive. Oh, well. Dave Critcher and Marcus Frank told me I looked great during my last couple of runs, but I wasn’t pushing it nearly as hard as I should, though I was getting the feel back for doing so. Practice! It means a lot to me because I don’t drive like my hairs on fire in ordinary life and that’s what you need to do at an AX to be competitive. Chris Markwood tried to get me to blame my tires, but my tires are in great shape. Believe me, it wasn’t the tires. ;) It’s likely you’ve seen the announcement in a CHS PCA eBlast, but in case you didn’t, all events for our Chapter are cancelled through the end of September. Since the final two CHS Autocross events for 2020 were scheduled for September, this means there will be no AX events held by CHS this season. Brad, Meilyng, and I were really looking forward to the 2020 season, too, so we’re certainly disappointed that we won’t be able to bring you any fun racing events this year. On the other hand, we’re also 100% behind the decision to do so. Let’s examine why that is so. A major question in holding an event right now is liability in case someone is infected with CoVID-19 as a result of attending a CHS PCA event. Lee Rock (the CHS Insurance Chair) is quite concerned about this. There are medical waivers used for situations like this, but Lee pointed out that these waivers essentially offer little or no protection in the event someone is infected at a CHS event. Besides that, even I (who knows nothing about such things) could come up with realizable situations that were simply not covered by the waiver and the Board elected with good reason not to put our Chapter (and, not incidentally, event organizers) in a position of liability. Liability is an important concern, but it’s not the only concern. As was pointed out to me by the Board, it would not be a very good advertisement of the PCA for our Club to be holding events with what might be seen as our toys when others are suffering so much due to the effects of the coronavirus. Frankly, I find this to be an extremely compelling argument against the Club holding overt gatherings and together with the question of liability explains why Brad, Meilyng, and I applaud the Board for making what we deem to be the right decision rather than the expedient decision. So let’s hope the situation improves so that events are possible in 2021. At this time, we can’t say that’s a foregone conclusion, but we can certainly hope. In the meantime, be careful and stay well. I’ll be looking forward to seeing everyone when we get past this terrible coronavirus pandemic. Greg Hartke, CHS AX Co-chair
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Lighter Side Ridgely McKinless
Three Laps in a Porsche 911 GT3 on Track
As a recent college graduate, and a new member of the PCA, there are a few factors (read: money) that have prevented me from experiencing the latest offerings from Zuffenhausen. I own a 986 Boxster, and have driven/owned a few late 90’s sports cars, but my experience with modern Porsches is relegated to online car reviews. So naturally, I was ecstatic when I was gifted a supercar driving experience last Christmas. I’ve long wanted to get behind the wheel of a GT car, and I was not only going to be able to take the helm of a 991.2 GT3, but I was going to do so on a proper racetrack! The driving experience company hosts events around the country, and the closest one was at the New Jersey Motorsports Park (NJMP) in July. I spent the days leading up to the event studying the track, wanting to make the most out of my 3 laps. The NJMP Lightning Course is a 1.9 mile, 10 corner circuit with a few elevation changes, banked turns, and blind corners. The day of, I woke up bright and early, and embarked on the hour and forty-five minute drive. Once I arrived at NJMP, I was greeted with a sight that will be familiar to anyone who has been to a grocery store in the past few months: a line. As you can imagine, the organizers have to be extremely careful in this climate to prevent the spread of germs. As a result, the cars had to be sanitized between drivers, doubling the time it would normally take for a driver change. In addition to sanitizing the cars, the helmets had to be disinfected as NJMP Lightning Course Map (Source: https://www.n2td.org/track-days/tracks-we-ride/njmpwell, and everyone had to wear a lightning/)
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Lighter Side (cont’d) face mask or head sock. To make matters worse, it was 100+ degrees and sunny that day. After a ride-along in a Chevy SS and an hours worth of lines and prep, I was finally up to drive the carmine red 911 GT3. I hopped into the carbon bucket seats, and immediately learned A brightly-colored Porsche next to a subtly spec’d Ferrari, don’t see that often. a valuable lesson: don’t ‘hop’ into carbon bucket seats unless you want to be castrated. Once I regained feeling and adjusted my seat, I was off! My first lap was completely overwhelming. Learning the track, the car, and getting feedback from my instructor all at once. By the time I passed the pit lane for lap two my confidence was building. I started getting more comfortable with the corners. Specifically turn 9, which is a long sweeping banked corner, where you have to accelerate mid-corner to keep momentum, which runs counter to your instincts. Immediately after that turn the track crests over a hill into the straight, so the more speed you carry through the turn directly correlates to how fast you go on the straight. But by the time I was hitting my stride, my time was up. Three laps, 6 minutes, and it went by in a blur. These events are great if you want to experience driving a supercar, but not if you want to better acquaint yourself with track driving. For me, I was doing it for the former, so I wasn’t let down. But if you are looking for the latter, then you’d be better served by an autocross event. That being said, for a few hundred dollars, how can you not enjoy going to a track, watching exotica doing constant fly-bys, and piloting your dream car? Even if it’s only for three fleeting (but glorious) laps.
Piloting the GT3 through turn 7
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PCA CHS Board President
Vincent Rock
Vice President
Aaron Miller
vicepresident@pcachs.org
Treasurer
Tom Morton
treasurer@pcachs.org
Secretary
John Jensen
secretary@pcachs.org
Past President
Michael Murphy
Autocross
Brad Martinez
autocross@pcachs.org
Greg Hartke
autocross@pcachs.org
Meilyng Wigney-Burmaka
autocross@pcachs.org
Newsletter
president@pcachs.org
pastpresident@pcachs.org
John D. Lewis
editor@pcachs.org
Larry Robinson
editor@pcachs.org
James Beavan III
editor@pcachs.org
Tristan Hinkley
editor@pcachs.org
Ridgely McKinless
editor@pcachs.org
Publicity
James Beavan III
Social
Donna Brandt
social@pcachs.org
Tech Session
Jim Earlbeck
tech@pcachs.org
Randy Richter
tech@pcachs.org
Aniano Arao
tour@pcachs.org
Randy Moss
tour@pcachs.org
Tour/Rally
publicity@pcachs.org
Safety Chair
John Jensen
Chief Driving Instructor
Ellen Beck
Community Service
Open
Concours d’Elegance
Ron Gordon
concours@pcachs.org
Doug Ehmann
concours@pcachs.org
Donna Brandt
concours@pcachs.org
Minta Miller
challenge@pcachs.org
Joan Wood
challenge@pcachs.org
Historian
Bob Rassa
historian@pcachs.org
Membership
Minta & Aaron Miller
Webmaster
Jim Hemig
Insurance
Lee Rock
PCA License
Laurie & Bruce Tarsia
PCA Zone 2 Rep
Rose Ann Novotnak
Chesapeake Challenge
safetychair@pcachs.org instructor@pcachs.org communityservice@pcachs.org
membership@pcachs.org webmaster@pcachs.org insurance@pcachs.org pcalicenseplates@pcachs.org zonerep@pcachs.org
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Porsche Annapolis
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Racing News
Ridgely McKinless
Race Calendar Revised for cancellations due to COVID-19 • August 1-2: Donington Park (Carrera Cup GB) • August 8-13: Berlin E-Prix 6 Round • August 8-9: Brands Hatch (Carrera Cup GB) • August 15: Total 6 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps (FIA WEC) • August 21-23: VIRginia International Raceway (IMSA/GT3 Cup) • August 22-23: Oulton Park (Carrera Cup GB) • August 29-30: Knockhill (Carrera Cup GB) • September 4-6: WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca (IMSA/ GT3 Cup) • September 19-20: Thruxton (Carrera Cup GB) • September 19-20: 24 Hours of Le Mans • September 25-27: Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course (IMSA/GT3 Cup) • September 26-27: Silverstone (Carrera Cup GB) • October 2-4: Watkins Glen International (IMSA/GT3 Cup) • October 10-11: Croft Circuit (Carrera Cup GB) • October 14-17: Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta (IMSA/GT3 Cup) • October 23-25: Grand Prix of St. Petersburg • October 30-31: Lime Rock Park (IMSA/GT3 Cup)
Racing Schedule Links •https://sportscarracingnews.com/2020/05/26/porschemotorsport-gb-poised-and-ready-for-revised-2020-calendar/ •https://www.imsa.com/news/2020/05/15/revised-2020-porsche-gt3-cup-challenge-usa-by-yokohamaschedule-begins-at-road-america/ •https://www.imsa.com/news/2020/05/15/imsa-announces-updated-return-to-racing-plan/ •https://www.autosport.com/fe/news/149253/fe-cancels-new-york-eprix-and-london-season-finale •https://www.imsa.com/news/2020/05/15/imsa-announces-updated-return-to-racing-plan/ •https://www.autosport.com/fe/news/149253/fe-cancels-new-york-eprix-and-london-season-finale
Renault protests Racing Point again in Hungary https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/racing-point-renaultprotest-hungary/4840477/
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HEADLINE
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Public Service Announcements Maryland Real ID—New Drivers License Requirements If you haven’t already visited the MVA to secure a Real ID, the clock is running to meet a federal law. “Please plan ahead,” said MVA administrator, Chrissy Nizer. “The deadline is October 2020 but we don’t want our customers to wait ’till then.” By 2020, older Maryland licenses will no longer exist. The new ones will look different but even if you have one now it won’t be a Real ID until conditions are met.
“What that is, is four documents that you need to bring to your local MDOT MVA branch office,” said Nizer. “Those are proof of age and identity.” Meaning that, along with either a birth certificate or passport, you must also bring a social security card, a driver’s license, and proof of Maryland Residency, like a utility bill or a bank statement. http://www.mva.maryland.gov/realid/index.htm
**AVOID I-895** MAJOR ROADWORK ON I-895 IN BALTIMORE The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) warned motorists today to avoid I-895 and the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel due to major construction and traffic impacts beginning this month. Two-way traffic will operate on I-895 for two years starting Nov. 27. Motorists should use I-695/Key Bridge and I-95/Fort McHenry Tunnel as alternate routes. The work is part of the MDTA’s $189 million I-895 Bridge Project, announced on Dec. 21, 2017, to replace the 60-year-old bridge north of the Harbor Tunnel. “To avoid sitting in traffic, motorists should plan on using I-695 or I-95 as alternate routes,” said Maryland Department of Transportation Secretary and MDTA Chairman Pete K. Rahn. On Nov. 27, northbound I-895 will close completely for one year from the north side of the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel to the Boston/O’Donnell Street exit ramp (Exit 11).
• • • •
Two-way traffic – one lane in each direction – will operate on southbound I-895. The I-895/Holabird Avenue exit ramp (Exit 10) will close completely during this time. Additionally, the northbound bore of the Harbor Tunnel will close 24/7 for 60 days in spring 2019 with twoway traffic operating in the southbound bore. Northbound I-895 and the Holabird Avenue exit ramp will reopen to traffic in spring 2020.
If you know of information that you think our members would benefit from, please bring it to the attention of the Editors at editor@pcachs.org.
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FYI New Tech Library Online! Visit our new library at http://pcachs.org/tech-library/
Annual Advertising Rates: Personal/Classified Items—Free to PCA members Full page ad—$600 Half page ad—$450 Quarter page ad—$200 Business card—$200
Send to: editor@pcachs.org
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Name and Car Badges! Now you can obtain your Chesapeake Region Name Badge! Go to www.pcachs.org and use the “GOODIE STORE” menu from the main page. Click the button and complete the order form page. The Name Badge cost is $25, inclusive of handling and shipping.
This is your opportunity to purchase a heavy “gold- plated” Chesapeake Region metal car badge. Each metal car badge comes complete with stainless steel slotted retaining plate, screws, washers and nuts to mount it through your car grille or separate mounting plate. You can order right now! The cost per metal car badge is $30 or two for $50, inclusive of handling and shipping. Here’s how you order your metal car badge: Go to www.pcachs.org and use the “GOODIE STORE” menu from the main page. Click the button and complete the order form page and make your payment by check or Pay- Pal. 31
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PCA Jackets! If you want one of these killer jackets, please remit $80 to our Treasurer, Vincent Rock via check or PayPal. If by check, send your check to Treasurer P.O. Box 1720, Germantown, MD 20875. If by PayPal, send it to: treasurer@pcachs.org from the PayPal.com website.
In addition to your payment, complete the online order form at www.pcachs.org and indicate: a.) Color, b.) Style (male or female), and c.) Size from the Sizing Chart on the following pages.
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Order your PCA Embroidered Jacket!
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PCA Jackets!
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PCA License Plates What Are PCA License Plates: Chesapeake Region PCA coordinates the purchase of PCA Organizational License Plates issued through the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). The PCA License Plate Program promotes the visibility and camaraderie of PCA. PCA Maryland License Plates are pre-numbered Organizational Plates, not vanity plates. PCA License Plates are available for all cars, trucks and minivans, but not for motorcycles or trailers. Cost: The one-time cost for the PCA License Plates is $35.00, which includes the $25.00 MVA fee and a $10 Chesapeake PCA fundraising fee to support the PCA License Plate Program and Chesapeake Region events. How To Apply: The only way to apply for PCA Organizational License Plates is to complete the online PCA Maryland License Web Form at https://pcachs.org/pcamaryland-license-plate/ and submit it electronically. Please click on the above link to learn the details and requirements to apply for PCA License Plates. If you have any questions regarding the purchase of PCA Maryland Organizational License Plates, please contact us at: pcaLicensePlates@pcachs.org. Safe and Happy Motoring. Requirements: You must be a PCA Member and the car must be registered in Maryland. The PCA Plates are not limited to Porsches. You can apply for PCA plates for all your cars registered in Maryland!
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PCA Juniors
What is the PCA Juniors program? ✓ PCA Juniors is a program for Porsche enthusiasts under age 18. ✓ Participants must be registered by an active PCA member. ✓ It’s not just the cars… and now it’s not just the grown-ups! ✓ With our new PCA Juniors program, PCA is about the kids too!
The PCA Juniors program has been created so kids can enjoy PCA events, learn about Porsches and build the enthusiasm that runs through all of the Porsche Club of America. Who is eligible? Any child under age 18 who is registered by a current PCA member can participate in the program. (Note: This is not a PCA Membership.) What will the child receive? PCA Juniors will receive a welcome package that includes an ageappropriate gift and PCA Juniors ID badge. We look forward to developing the program and its features over time. What does it cost to register? It’s FREE! Participants must be registered by an active PCA member, and there is no cost to join!
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President's Message (cont’d)
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