President's Message

"Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stays these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds."    That unofficial motto of the US Postal Service can justifiably be adopted by the Chesapeake Region.  Roughly fifty cars and their owners arrived for the Car Show and Concours d'Elegance at Downs Park in Pasadena, which kicked off the 39th annual Chesapeake Challenge.  Snorkels were optional, but recommended.  The fun continued as participants navigated the Gimmick Rallye through some of the most beautiful parts of Anne Arundel County to the area's newest Porsche dealership, Porsche of Annapolis.  If the turnout for this event didn't demonstrate the enthusiasm and dedication of our membership, I don't know what would.  This participation is the kind of thing that makes our region truly outstanding.

My sincere appreciation goes to everyone who worked so hard to make CC39 a success. Paul Faupel, Maureen Stuart, and John and Barbara Moore braved the rain to judge the concours cars, and were soaked in the process.  Steve Kinsley and John Patterson planned a fun and challenging rallye that was flawlessly executed.  Emily Burns from Johnson Automotive Group and Scott Heishman from Porsche of Annapolis pulled out all the stops to throw a party commensurate with the quality of Porsche of Annapolis.  And last, but by no means least, Ellen Beck and Bob Gutjahr envisioned the new single-day event format and co-chaired CC39, pulling together all the bits to make a complete whole.  Without the hard work of all these people, we would not have experienced the success that will make this event memorable for years to come.

Now we'll turn our attention to 2009 for the After Holiday Party to be held at Turf Valley Resort in Ellicott City on January 10, followed by Slot Car Night on January 17.  These events are region favorites, so mark your calendars!

I'm also going to take some space to welcome two new members to the Chesapeake Region Board.

Jan Borchardt has graciously offered to be our new Patter editor.  It's a long-held understanding that the editor position is the toughest on the board, but it's clear that Jan's experience gives her ample skills for the task.  I think she'll do an excellent job keeping us in line.

Allen Gunzelman, a past President of the Chesapeake Region and long-time active member, has taken on the role of our Tour Meister.  By the time you read this, Allen will have already taken us on his Friendly Farm Tour.  Please join me in welcoming Jan and Allen to the board.

Andrew