NewsLetter - Summer 2024

Summer 2024

2024 Board Members

President Erik Apotheker

203.733.1470 president@fsrpca.org

Eastern Vice President

Scott Hoffman eastvp@fsrpca.org

Assistant Eastern Vice President

Carlton Harris asstvp-eastern@fsrpca.org

Western Vice President

Mike Ball

804.240.9296 westvp@fsrpca.org

Assistant Western Vice President & Tourmeister

Dave Wallace asstvp-western@fsrpca.org

Secretary & Archivist

Carl Bess secretary@fsrpca.org

Treasurer

Jerry Kent 757.971.7849 treasurer@fsrpca.org

Activities Officer

Keith Stone activities@fsrpca.org

Past President

Melinda Cagle pastpresident@fsrpca.org

HO Editor

Brad Jublou editor@fsrpca.org

Charity Chair Ruth Apotheker charity@fsrpca.org

Membership Chair

Ken Thomas membership@fsrpca.org

High Performance Driver

Education Chair

Marco Estrada dechair@fsrpca.org

Safety Chair

Mark Hugel mark.hugel@cox.net

IN THIS ISSUE

Presidential Musings

Treasurer’s Report and Charity Update

Welcome New Members

Member Anniversary Milestones

News From the Secretary

Editor’s Corner

Activities Calendar

Mark Hugel - Portsmouth’s First Citizen Hot Track!

“Taste of the Track”

Collecting Memorabilia

FSR Member Profile: the Ruffins

Tech Tactics East: A Weekend of Porsche Passion

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Horizontally Opposed (HO) is the official publication of First Settlers Region (FSR), Porsche Club of America (PCA). All opinions, views and information appearing in HO are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of the PCA, FSR, its Officers or the Editor.

The HO Editor reserves the right to edit all material submitted for publication. Permission is granted to reprint any material provided that full credit is given to the author and to Horizontally Opposed.

This publication, and previous publications of Horizontally Opposed, are available to view on-line at www.fsrpca.org.

Advertising rates, schedules and commercial partner marketing support is available to all parties interested in engaging the members of the First Settlers Region of the Porsche Club of America. Please contact HO Editor, Brad Jublou, at editor@fsrpca.org for more information.

Presidential Musings, Erik Apotheker

On a chilly spring morning, a blank computer screen stares back at me, the air filled with drizzle and the sky overcast. The cursor blinks on the page, almost tauntingly, signaling that it’s time to write another article for Horizontally Opposed. Writing isn’t something I dislike or find difficult; it’s just that the quality of my work seems to depend on some elusive factors that I still don’t fully understand.

Since my last update, we’ve made significant progress with our events calendar, successfully bringing several aspirational events to life. We’ve held two well-received “pop-up” dine-out events, and more are in the planning stages.

Our recent spring FSR High-Performance Driver Education (HPDE) event was, overall, successful, delivering on our executional vision. We wish we could have had more registrations to take advantage of the hard work of Marco Estrada, Michael Shamas, and our DE Committee. Special thanks go to Kira Mellups, the Foxes, the Grandfields, and the Kahles for organizing a fantastic happy hour at VIR. Your efforts made the gathering both possible and highly successful.

Our Fun Run program remains a perennial favorite. The recent Perimeter Fun Run was enjoyed by many. Registration is now open for the Mountain Adventure Fun Run Weekend, and several other routes are being planned. Thanks to all, especially the new volunteers.

I’m also pleased to report that our website continues to be updated, and volunteer opportunities are available. While the FSR App remains the primary source for upcoming event information, the website is also up-to-date with many new photos to browse. Set aside some time this weekend to check it out.

As we strive to deliver on our promises to members, there’s still much to be done and many insights to gain. We’re currently crafting a short member survey to support our ongoing efforts to enhance member value. When it’s distributed, we hope you’ll take 3-5 minutes to respond and share your thoughts. The insights we gain will help us refine our activities further, so your candid feedback is crucial. With nearly 1,400 members, we aim for at least 25% participation. Look for the survey in the next issue of HO, our app, and via email.

Finally, our 65th Anniversary celebrations will continue throughout the year. Come out and join us to see what the fun is all about. For those who can’t wait for the next round of fun to begin, enjoy this puzzle. The rules are simple: find the listed words in the puzzle.

Words can be in any direction and can share letters as they cross each other.

Treasurer’s Report

Jerry

Kent

Our club is fortunate to have beautiful cars, amazing members, and a healthy bank balance to support our activities. As of January 1, 2024, our balance stood at just over $170,000.00. Chartered as a 501-C(4) non-profit, FSR starts each year with a Program Budget developed by our officers to guide all activities. This budget funds everything on our calendar, including the Horizontally Opposed (HO) magazine, Membership, Charity, the High-Performance Driver Education (HPDE) Program, and administrative costs.

For 2024, we project an income of approximately $204,000.00 and expenses around $217,000.00, with the difference mainly due to our 65th Anniversary celebration related activities. Throughout the year, we make adjustments to stay as close to break-even as possible.

Our primary revenue sources are the PCA distribution of funds based on membership (estimated at $14,000.00 in 2024) and our HPDE program, which varies by year and event. These revenues support activities ($25,000.00), the HO magazine ($14,000.00), and board expenses ($10,000.00). Rising costs make planning and executing our varied programs challenging.

Recently, our Spring HPDE event was a hit for drivers, volunteers, and Taste of the Track attendees, but resulted in a $14,000 deficit. The FSR Board is addressing this earlier than usual to incorporate it into our planning for the rest of the year

A common question is, “Why does FSR maintain such a large bank balance, and what are the plans for its use?” This balance is partly to protect the interests of FSR. Early in the year, we sign HPDE contracts for track rental and related expenses, obligating us to pay around $145,000. While much of this is recovered through registration fees, the financial risk remains. Additional funds are maintained for future opportunities as they may be identified.

The Board welcomes suggestions for new activities or improvements to existing programs.

Jerry Charity Committee Update,

They say that no act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted, and that greatness is not what you have, but what you give. In that spirit, I am happy to report that our community outreach is robust and growing. In support of our committee efforts, the Board has voted to approve the following charities for 2024. While others may be added, we currently focus our time on:

Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters

Feed More

Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore

Horizons Hampton Roads

Samaritan House

Vet Dogs

Upcoming in July, we will be participating in Porsche visits to the Horizons Summer School programs in the Hampton Roads region. This is a great way to give back to the community and get your car out for a ride. Times are Fridays in July from 9:00 to 10:30 am. Look for more information in emails and on the FSR Facebook Group.

Horizons Hampton Roads is looking for workplaces in the area that are interested in offering 2–3-day micro-internships for high school students. Students would visit the workplace so they can have a firsthand look into how companies operate and the markets they serve. Running from June 23rd to August 16th, if you have an interest in helping, please reach out to me at rapotheker@ comcast.net.

New Members February, March, April and May, 2024

Welcome to all our new First Settlers Region Members! We are happy to have you join us. Please come to an event soon and meet some fellow members, have some fun, and see a lot of beautiful Porsches.

February 2024

Josh Allman

Rich Comerford

Robert Thoma

Shannon Talley

Ben Jenkins

William Kelly TI Mid-Ohio

Kurt Boenisch

Virginia Beach 2026 911 Turbo S

Glen Allen 2019 718 Boxster S

March 2024

Virginia Beach 2021 Macan GTS

Moseley 2020 Taycan 4S

Maidens 2014 Boxster

Williamsburg 2018 Macan

Chesapeake 2019 718 Boxster

Lucas Sidor Portsmouth 2001 Boxster

James Matthews

Mechanicsville PCA Test Drive

Alexander Noble Richmond 2022 718 Cayman GT4

Erik Wijtmans

Norfolk 2013 911 Carrera S Cab

Craig Noble TI Saint Louis Richmond 2009 911 Targa 4S

David Irvine

Williamsburg 2008 911 4S

Andrew Hellmann Suffolk 2010 Panamera 4S

Frank Galarraga

April 2024

Virginia Beach 2010 Cayman

Michael Gallagher Richmond 2000 911 Carrera 4

Stefan Mueller

David Zupruk

Dale Gsellman TI Monterey

Rodney Malone

Mark Sewell

Corigan Malloy

Bob Dust

Bjoern Littman

Joel Karlsberg TI Tennessee

Carlos Britos

Michael Taylor

Moseley 2021 911 Carrera 4S

Norfolk 2017 911 Carrera 4S

Portsmouth 2016 Cayman

Virginia Beach 2002 911 Carrera

King George PCA Test Drive

May 2024

Lawrenceville 2002 Boxster

Midlothian 20232015 Boxster

Virginia Beach 2005 911 Carrera

Virginia Beach 1978 911 SC Targa

Yorktown 2017 911 Carrera

Midlothian 2014 Cayman S

Scot Tostenson Moseley 2015 Cayman S

Roger Thaler

Charles Mccorey

Adrian Marchi

Williamsburg 2004 911 Carrera 4S

Norfolk 2023 Panamera Gran Turismo

Virginia Beach 2015 Cayman - 4 -

Member Anniversary Milestones for the 2nd Quarter 2024, Ken

30 Years Leonard Stann

25 Years Edward Saylor

Damien Walsh

Warren Fitz

20 Years Lee Millard

Dan Jones

15 Years Gordon Bass

10 Years Carl Kesgen

Andrew Corcoran

Alex Townsend

Greg Tigani

5 Years Christopher Parsons

Richard Gilbert

Rich Scalea

Dan Swanson

Benjamin Bryant

Thomas, Membership Chair

John Greene

Craig Wright

Neil Partridge

Mark Thomson

Frank Zalegowski

Todd Miller

Jon Montagna

Chris Jones

Mark Devlin

Creighton Northup

Dennis Heidlebaugh

Walt Pristou

Rob Meadows

Congratulations to all our members who celebrate membership milestones in the second quarter of 2024. Thank you for your loyalty to the Porsche brand, Porsche Club of America, and First Settlers Region. We hope you are enjoying your membership and all the benefits that are available to you. If you haven’t come out to an event lately, consider joining us for an event this year. First Settlers offers many popular events throughout the year with a focus on driving, socializing, and charitable activities. Our monthly breakfasts are very popular also.

Hope to see you at an event soon.

News from the Secretary, Carl Bess

My hope is that this is not interrupting your scramble to repurchase your favorite detailing supplies as we are now in spring and enjoying some decent weather at last! I’m also trying to catch up, having just returned from a vacation in the south of France. Somehow, I managed to convince my wife, Karen, into taking a side trip to Monaco where we got to see preparations for the Formula 1 race that would be taking place just a couple of weeks later. We all know the results of that race by now, but I can’t help but think what the competition would be like if things would have worked out for Porsche to join the other constructors for the 2026 season. Enough of wishful thinking and now back to business!

This quarter’s edition of Horizontally Opposed combines the March and May Board of Directors (BOD) meeting minute notes. As we always like to remind everyone, the BOD meets bi-monthly, and anyone may attend. Each meeting is held on ZOOM, so if you’d like to sit in, just let any BOD member know and you’ll get the ZOOM link in advance. Regarding our most recent BOD meetings, here are some highlights:

• Layout of FSR’s 65th Anniversary Celebration continues and will be a presence in events throughout the year.

• On the Charities front, the BOD elected to retain the same charities we served in 2023.

• The Fun Run scheduled for 21 July may be combined with a New Member event.

• This year ’s Air and Auto Show is tentatively scheduled for 19 October; however, that date conflicts with the annual Zone 1 and 2 Boardwalk Reunion at Ocean City, NJ. There’s more discussion to be had, so stay tuned!

• The May 1st Pop-Up Dinner at Hackers Bar & Grill in Virginia Beach was well attended, as was the 24 April one at Extra Billy’s Smokehouse & Brewery in Midlothian, so the BOD is looking at options for additional pop-up events.

That’s it for now and, as always, thanks to all those who volunteer for your Board!

On the cover: Shawn Faherty took this photo of a colorful collection of Porsches stopped on the Mitchell Millpond dam during the Perimeter Fun Run on 1 June. Rescheduled from 18 May due to weather, this Fun Run checked all the boxes!

If you wish to submit a photo or original piece of art to be considered for a future cover, please email editor@fsrpca.org.

Editor’s Corner Brad Jublou

FSR’s driving season has gotten off to a great start over the last few months. We’ve had the Cabin Fever Breakout Fun Run, the Taste of the Track weekend, the High-Performance Driver Education, the Perimeter Fun Run, and probably by the time you get this we will have completed our weekend Mountain Adventure Fun Run! Whoa! Steve Marcom was crowned the new “King of the Twistys” by Ed Merry due to his masterful route at the Perimeter Fun Run. If you’re reading this magazine and you haven’t made it out to a Fun Run yet, check the schedule on the next page or on the FSR App and sign up when registration opens. Bring your car out to play – and don’t have FOMO!!

Hey, Wanna be PRESIDENT?!? Of FSR, that is. This October, FSR will hold elections for the Executive Council positions of President, Western Vice President, and Treasurer. All three of the current incumbents have already served two 2-year terms, so they are ineligible to run again. Want to be of service to our Region in one of these very important positions? All Active members, to include Family-Active members, in good standing (that means you’re paid up!) are eligible to be nominated, and to nominate others. Volunteering to be part of the leadership team in a great club like ours is a fun and rewarding experience; if you think you might be interested, but would like to know more, check out the duties of the positions starting on page 6 of FSR’s By-Laws, which are located on our website at https://www.fsrpca.org/documents/fsr-by-laws.pdf . Details of the election process and how to nominate or be nominated will be contained in a Notice of Elections email from our President, due to be released by 1 September.

Farewell to an FSR Friend. Jo Morris, who worked at Virginia International Raceway for 17 years, passed away on March 25, 2024, at the age of 62. Born in Danville, she was a Director at VIR and a friend to our club, invaluable as an enabler of our High-Performance Driver Education program. The following is from her obituary:

“Jo never met a plant or creature that she did not love. She kept herself happy and busy with taking care of her plants, feeding deer, rabbits, birds and anything else that roamed around that looked hungry. She also enjoyed all kinds of art from painting to ornament making and resin work.”

Rest in peace, Jo.

Brad

That’s it for this quarter; I hope to see you out on the Twistys! Solution to the Presidential Puzzle on page 2

2024 FSR Activities - 2nd Quarter Update

By Keith Stone, Activities Officer

Start your engines! April started out with the Cabin Fever Breakout Run hosted by Ed Merry that hit some of the best back roads in our region, which included great landscapes and curves that were truly thrilling. Using the latest digital navigation, the drive was made much easier than with paper route instructions.

FSR chose Ride with GPS (RWG) which is a popular platform used for planning, navigating, and tracking rides. RWG is free to use for FSR routes, but not outside of the group. Once RWG is installed on your phone, search for “Porsche Club of America – First Settlers Region” to get connected. We are developing and translating old routes into RWG. Here are some benefits of using Ride with GPS:

Turn-by-Turn Navigation: One of the standout features of RWG is its turn-by-turn navigation capability. You can utilize the RWG app on your smartphone to access FSR routes. Routes are generally available the day before the Fun Run. During your ride, the app will provide clear, voice-guided turn-by-turn directions, making it easier to follow your route without having to stop and check a map.

Maps: Ride with GPS allows you to download maps for offline use. This is especially useful if you’re riding in areas with poor or no cellular coverage. You can download maps for entire regions or specific routes to ensure you have access to navigation even when you’re offline.

Upcoming Events

Reminder: Regularly scheduled events (Eastern, Central and Western Breakfasts, and Rennsport Rendezvous) are confirmed for their usual days each month.

Locations (and days) are:

Carrot Tree Restaurant, Williamsburg (1st Saturday)

Joe’s Inn Bon Air in Richmond (2nd Saturday) Pop’s Diner in Chesapeake (2nd Saturday)

54 Beans Coffee (last Saturday). More info on these venues is published to the FSR Activities Calendar (https://www.fsrpca.org/ calendar). Our FSR app also has the dates. No registration is required for these regularly scheduled events.

We are planning some “Porsche Dine Out” social events; stay tuned to the FSR Facebook group or the FSR app.

Event Location

Overnight Fun Run

August Drive

Summer BBQ Social

Porsche Trivia Tour

Air & Auto

October Fun Run

Holiday Party

Waynesboro

Charles City

Chesapeake City Park

Jamestown-Williamsburg

Virginia Beach (Pungo)

Williamsburg - Smithfield

TBD

Date

June 28-30

August 3

August 17

September 28

October 19

October 26 (possible repeat October 27)

January or February 2025

Mark Hugel - 2024 Portsmouth First Citizen

By Brad Jublou

Photos courtesy of Mark Hugel

According to their website, the Portsmouth Service League is a volunteer organization composed of women who are interested in the welfare of their community. It is a training organization with its objective being to produce responsible civic leaders for the community by exposing, educating, and involving its members in all facets of community life. It was founded in 1955 by a group of 34 young women who were concerned with the affairs of their community and decided to organize a group with similar social and educational backgrounds.

For eighty-three years, the citizens of Portsmouth have honored an individual for his or her contributions to the Portsmouth community by naming that individual Portsmouth’s First Citizen. As explained on the Portsmouth Service league’s website, “A Portsmouth First Citizen should be an individual who embodies the spirit of citizenship through his or her service to the community for the sole purpose of and in the spirit of giving. This spirit is evidenced by an individual’s civic, charitable, and religious contributions to fellow citizens, the Portsmouth and Hampton Roads communities, the state and country without remuneration and over and above the pursuit of one’s chosen vocation.”

Mark has had a lot of titles in his life: Portsmouth City Councilman, Rear Admiral, Commanding Officer, and FSR Safety Chair, to name but a few. And on April 25th, one more was added when Mark was honored as the 2024 Portsmouth First Citizen.

From the award ceremony’s program: “Throughout his 32 years in uniform, Mark served the Portsmouth community diligently: serving at Oasis with the Social Ministry Committee of a local church, coaching Little League Baseball, serving as a Boy Scout leader, and playing drums with a praise and worship team. While in command of Norfolk Naval Shipyard, Mark worked with city and community leaders to extend the Path of History, celebrating the unique history of Portsmouth all the way to his favorite shipyard. Mark also assisted Admiral ‘T-Ball’ Hayden, who asked Mark to help provide resources for standing up Starbase Victory, a unique STEM program for children in the Portsmouth Public School System. Mark continues to serve on the Board for Starbase Victory and steers program expansion from grade school all the way through high school. Starbase Victory has now educated nearly 50,000 children in the last 20 years, providing children in Portsmouth Public Schools with the tools needed to develop fruitful careers that give back to their community and the nation.”

When Mark retired from the Navy, he and Luana chose Portsmouth as their home. And he continued to find ways to serve. He was twice elected national president of the American Society of Naval Engineers; and for the past six years, he has supported the Up Center, a social services organization, and he currently serves as President of the Board of Directors. Mark has served on the board for Tidewater Community College, where he helped to advance the college as a national leader in workforce development. He currently serves on the Portsmouth Public Schools Career and Technical Advisory Committee. Mark has worked to expand a Department of Defense program to prepare adults for working in Navy shipbuilding, maintenance, and repair trades in Portsmouth. He has also acquired funding to bring Virginia’s Great Opportunities in Technology and Engineering Careers (GO TEC) program to schools in Portsmouth, expanding opportunities for school children to learn about computing, robotics, 3-D printing, laser cutting, and other technical skills.

The summary from the award program reads in part: “(Mark’s) quiet kindness, professionalism, intelligence, integrity, humility, and supportive demeanor have helped so many people in Portsmouth and beyond. In the words of his wife, Luana, ‘He is a gift to our city. In Mark, Portsmouth has a great champion, mentor, ambassador, and friend. May God bless his continuing endeavors.’”

Congratulations, Mark! Well deserved.

Hot Track! By Kira Mellups

Photos by Phil Grandfield

The weekend of 26-28 April First Settlers hosted our annual spring High Performance Driver Education (HPDE) at Virginia International Raceway (VIR) and it couldn’t have gone better! We have added an awesome pair of Chief Track Instructors (CTIs) and are so excited to welcome Jim Graham and Rob McMahon to our team! They have already implemented some new ideas and there will be more to come. This got me thinking; what have I learned in HPDE’s and how has that translated to driving on the street? I asked committee members and instructors for their input.

“Understanding your car’s limits, learning the correct way to sit and hold the steering wheel, improving awareness, learning how your car reacts and why with various inputs. It will definitely make you a better and more confident driver.”

Michael Shammas

“One thing that I learned was the importance of predicting other drivers’ behavior and having at least two escape routes wherever you find yourself. While driving in Norfolk one day, an elderly driver (who I had my eye on) simply moved over into my lane without warning. I was able to avoid an accident by braking hard and bailing onto the sidewalk. Afterwards I simply drove down the curb and continued, but I would have been rear-ended had I not been scanning for escape routes.”

Rob McMahon

“Awareness of surrounding traffic. Watching for ‘tells’ that someone is about to drive in front of you, such as when their car creeps slightly as their head turns. Car control in wet or slippery conditions, understanding that the level of grip is dependent on the road conditions, and how abrupt maneuvers can upset the balance of the car which reduces your vehicle’s ability to maintain stability. Finally, knowing that you cannot control everything and sometimes going off course in a controlled manner is the safest option.” Jim Graham

“HPDE experience can be incredibly valuable in a variety of situations, especially when it comes to developing advanced driving skills and handling challenging driving conditions. Participating in HPDE often involves track days where drivers can push the limits of their vehicles in a controlled environment. This experience can enhance a driver’s understanding of vehicle dynamics, braking points, and cornering techniques, which can translate to safer and more confident driving on public roads.” Marco Estrada

“Two simple comments: Keep your eyes up. Brake HARD if needed. Your brakes will handle it, but you need to be in control.” Phil Grandfield

A few weeks ago, I had a frightening experience. I was approaching a light near my house as it turned green. As I started to pull through the intersection a large landscaping truck did not seem to be slowing down. After a split second of disbelief, I hit the brakes hard enough to throw everything off my seat onto the floor and myself into the locked seatbelt. He was driving at least 60 in a 35 mph zone and did not even touch the brakes, blasting through the light and, as it turns out, missing my front bumper by just a few inches. Thankfully I was scanning and aware of the truck’s speed and could see that he wasn’t slowing when he should have been. I knew that I needed to threshold brake now and knew what that meant for my car. I am certain that my HPDE experience saved my car, at the very least, and possibly even my life that day.

If you are interested in joining FSR for an HPDE, our next event is 11-12 October at VIR. We have run groups for never-ever and novices through advanced drivers and instructors. VIR is widely acknowledged as one of the best road tracks in the US and we guarantee you will have fun and learn something. If you have questions you can email me at deregistrar@fsrpca.org, and more event information and registration can be found on Motorsportreg.com at msreg.com/FSRfallHPDE.

I

Got a “Taste of the Track!”

By Brad Jublou

Photos by the author, Mike Ball and Phil Grandfield

FSR’s first weekend away Fun Run of 2024, held April 26-28, was chock full of driving and social events, but one event in particular stood out: the Taste of the Track! Now, I’ve had my venerable 996 on the track at Virginia International Raceway (VIR) twice before, but one was a previous Taste of the Track (April 2022) and the other was as Sweeper for some Charity Laps. Those were fun, but this time there was a major difference: we had instructors! More about all that shortly.

Organizers designed a full weekend around the Saturday afternoon track time, including two socials, a dinner, a visit to Smith Mountain Dam, a lunch, and two Fun Runs!

Friday night kicked off the weekend with a social at the 2 Witches Winery and Brewing Company in Danville. Snacks and munchies, as well as two drink tickets per person were served, and the food truck on site provided an interesting selection of sandwiches. It was a great venue, open and airy, with a large outdoor area and a band later in the evening.

Saturday started early with a Fun Run on some particularly awesome back roads in Danville’s backyard. The 14 cars in the group had plenty of twisty-turney curves and lots of elevation changes to enjoy. After about 80 minutes, it was time for a bio break at Jed’s Grocery.

Afterwards, we were on the way again, this time on about a 16mile run to the Smith Mountain Dam and Visitor’s Center. This was a pretty interesting spot, with a very instructive Visitor’s Center, detailing the building of the Smith Mountain dam in the early 1960s and its impact on the surrounding area.

After about an hour’s visit, it was back onto the twistys for around 20 miles to the town of Chatham for lunch at the El Cazador Mexican restaurant.

Now on to the main course: the Taste of the Track at VIR. After parking at the North Paddock, everyone had time to watch some of the High-Performance Driver Education (HPDE) runs that were going on that same weekend at VIR. At 3:30 there was an instruction session, mandatory for those taking their cars on the track, but open to anyone else who wanted to attend.

Then right around 5 pm, there was the on-track session. This was an opportunity to have about 20 minutes on the track without several of the things necessary for HPDE: no pre-inspection at a mechanic’s shop; no safety inspection at the track; no helmet; no special suit. And ragtops were allowed! But yes, you had to wear long pants and a long-sleeved shirt; and yes, you had to make sure there were no obvious mechanical or safety-related problems with your car – all of which was pretty much a common-sense check. You don’t go on a track with a cracked windshield or crappy brakes, right?? And lastly, as mentioned previously, we had instructors.

As we stood by our cars clustered near the red barn, my instructor for the run, Brad Reaves, came over and introduced himself. I was a little nervous, and I took it as a good omen that both our names were Brad. We moved to the grid and chatted about what to do on the track, and then talked a little bit about ourselves – all of which helped me relax somewhat. But I was also super psyched to get on that track!

There were nine cars participating. I was second in line, and Barry Nachman was in front. Then suddenly - we were off! And I didn’t see Barry or his GT4 again until the social.

Having an instructor for an event like this was a game-changer for me. You can sit in a classroom and listen to an instructor talk about “finding the line,” but having a knowledgeable, experienced instructor advising you turn-by-turn on the best way to steer, brake, and shift is next level. I can still hear Brad as we were approaching the Left Hook; “Wait...Waaaiittt...NOW! Brake and turn HARD! HARDER!! Your car was built for this!!” Having an instructor was invaluable in giving me confidence and helping me to push my car harder than I have before.

Some things I learned seemed counterintuitive to me; on my 3rd approach to the Back Straight, Brad said, “Don’t shift into 6th gear; leave it in 5th,” which turned out to be good advice, as it eliminated the momentary lag in speed since the engine didn’t have to deal with the higher gear. It just revved higher and did the job!

Something I didn’t expect: for safety reasons, the track is driven with windows down. Going fast with the windows down made the whole experience that much more exhilarating. (Note to Self: drive with the windows down more often!)

When it was over, I felt excited, happy, and a little mentally tired from the high level of stress and uninterrupted concentration required for the last 20 minutes. But it was an amazing experience. And fortunately for us, right after our track time, FSR had organized just the thing to alleviate stress and mental tiredness: a Happy Hour Social!

After the social, dinner was served at the Oak Tree Tavern at VIR. Kathy and I were fortunate to have dinner with the two Chief Track Instructors (CTIs) for the HPDE, Rob McMahon and Jim Graham.

The weekend’s activities wound up on Sunday with another Fun Run and a lunch at Darby’s Tavern, which we didn’t do. Instead we headed straight back to Norfolk in time to fetch Ali Baba out of his dog resort...where he probably would’ve preferred to stay.

As I’ve said in these pages before, back in fall of 2022, weekend Fun Runs are, IMHO, one of the greatest activities we do as a club. You get more quality time on twisty roads, and more time to get better acquainted with other FSR members – especially those from parts of our Region other than your own.

And my Taste of the Track? Did it convince me to sign up for the next HPDE in October?

Stay tuned...

Collecting Memorabilia

By Erik Apotheker

Collecting is a multifaceted pursuit, driven by various motivations. Some seek the thrill of obtaining elusive items, while others value the potential monetary worth or sentimental connections. For me, collecting is about surrounding myself with things that bring enjoyment, or that I find nostalgic.

As I have aged, my understanding of “enjoyment” has shifted, shaped by the unique qualities of each item I collect. Completing a collection has never been my goal; instead, I see collecting as an ongoing journey, much like chapters in a book that weave together to tell a story. This narrative is constantly evolving, with new additions sparking further exploration. Collecting, I’ve found, has no definitive endpoint - only a broad path for discovery

While some collectors prioritize pristine condition and completeness, I focus on enjoying the items I gather, regardless of their state.

In my collecting journey, I’ve established three guiding principles: collect what brings enjoyment or fuels a passion; never be afraid to pass up an item when cost (or trade) are not aligned with your current perspective; and pass along items when interests shift.

Over time, Porsche collectibles have surged in popularity, and so have memorabilia from other brands. While I am less versed in other marques, the LA Porsche Model and Memorabilia Meet stands out as a prominent gathering for collectors in the US. Yet, it is not the sole destination for enthusiasts. Swap meets like Carlisle give opportunities to find coveted items. Personally, I have found that treasures often find their way to me through various channels, like eBay or charity auctions, word of mouth and swap meets, creating unexpected connections among items in my collection.

Like most commercial items, it is important to understand the market, trends, and value. Take the time to educate yourself, especially if your intentions are to collect for profit, now or in the future. Yes, little imperfections can be huge detractors to value, and in some situations, the exact opposite. Also, learn the lingo so as not to tip your hand or show naivete. If someone asks you if you have any interest in “paper,” and attempts to usher you to a quiet corner of the room, you can be pretty confident that they are not looking to sell you supplies to roll your own tobacco! Instead, “paper” encompasses Porsche factory posters, owner manuals, maintenance books, shop guides, brochures, and dealer training materials. While I have been fortunate to meet some extremely knowledgeable people, not everyone has correct knowledge or operates at the highest levels of honesty. Beware of copycats, knock offs, or “repop” as it is often called. Caveat Emptor. In fact, you may want to begin your memorabilia collection with items that are of little or no value.

These participant badges from the Porsche Experience Center and the Driven to America inaugural event at the Hoffman Estate hold little monetary value, but their significance lies in the memories they evoke. While these badges may not be rare in quantity, they are unique to me, bearing my name. The inaugural event badge, commemorating a special gathering of over 300 cars, including more than 100 356s, serves as a reminder of a memorable trip to Long Island, the many friendships forged over the years, some rekindled at that event, making these badges cherished mementos of experiences.

These cookie jars, sadly sit in a closet these days and are likely to be passed along soon but are fun finds at flea marts and thrift sales.

Autographed items hold moderate value, but their significance often surpasses monetary worth for collectors. While not particularly rare, they add an individualized touch to any collection. Recently I bought a sculpture, marking the beginning of my Porsche family member autograph collection. Though I had chances to collect autographs in person, I hesitated to intrude, a decision I now regret somewhat. Nonetheless, these items, including a third-place medal autographed by the recipient, serve as fond reminders of cherished events and admired individuals.

In my collection of toy/model cars, I have a pewter Speedster from a limited-edition series, although the manufacturer is known for producing sizable editions. While I am not concerned about its current value, it adds visual appeal. Interestingly, it is the second one I have owned, the first being damaged in a move, but sits alongside missing its windshield frame. The smaller 911, gotten from a set found at Walmart or Target, may lack detailed precision but stands out due to its diminutive size. As for the 912 badge, it is a standard item, but its uniqueness lies in its association with cars produced only in 1965 or 1966.

of history? Fitting for the sordid history of the Whittington brothers, this 935 smuggles a bit of whiskey. The bourbon was gone long before my acquisition. I have yet to see another in the market, but I just like it.

Accusing me of being nuts would not be the first time I heard such a thing. These nuts serve as paperweights and filler on my bookshelves. Why? Because I can and because they remind me of the advancement of technology. From left to right is a wheel nut from a Minardi Formula-1 car, a wheel nut from a Gurney Eagle Indy

If you had anything to do with Avon products in the 1980s, you may have purchased cologne in a glass bottle shaped like a Porsche 911, but did you know about this odd piece

Car (obtained at a charity auction), an aluminum 962 wheel nut from chassis HR1 (a gift), and another from a 935 (a cast off at a vintage event many years ago, it is well stretched and unusable).

Who can resist a legit award? This one was acquired because of my association with the actual car that earned it, and it was intended as a gift to the owner. Although “Myrtle,” a 1967 911S, was active in vintage racing at the time, just about the time I found this item, ownership changed hands. Losing sight of the

with the contents than their market value. Inside, you might find unexpected treasures like documentation for aftermarket upgrades or historical ads, adding to the allure.

Sales brochures follow a similar pattern, with scarcity and condition dictating value. Even if you did not buy your car new, having these brochures adds to the joy of ownership. Or serves as inspiration to add to your fleet.

car and new owner, the trophy stays in my hands although it certainly would be my pleasure to reunite it with the car at some point.

Porsche owner manuals vary widely in price depending on factors like condition, completeness, and edition. Collectors look for pristine, period-correct pieces, often paying thousands for the right elements. My collection has grown organically, driven more by fascination

In addition to brochures, I have collected magazine ads, dealership posters, and rare mailers.

Workshop manuals, while primarily for reference, also hold collectible value. Rare editions like those for the Porsche 550 or 906 can fetch thousands. My speculative acquisition of a 959 Factory Workshop Manual may someday be united with an actual car, but for now, it serves its purpose. Not to mention adding trivia to my repertoire that I just may spring on you at the next club meeting or trivia night. Do you know the composition of 959 bodywork? Courtesy of the manual, here is the official answer.

For some, collecting is a hobby, for others a nuisance, but no matter your preference, from postage stamps to 30” x 40” factory posters from diecasts to rare parts, if it enhances your Porsche journey, I say collect it, enjoy it and share your passion with others!

FSR Member Profile: The Ruffins

We are the Ruffins: Darien and Carla. We have been PCA members for 3 years. My wife is an Air Force Brat, and I am a veteran of the U.S. Army with most of my service in the 101st Airborne Division. After Carla and I completed college, I began working in the semiconductor industry and Carla started her career in the banking industry. We moved to the Richmond area in 1998 from Austin, Texas, by way of Albuquerque, New Mexico and Poughkeepsie, New York. We purchased our first BMW in 1996 and then a Volkswagen GTI in 1998. Although both cars were so much fun to own and drive, Carla had not become the car enthusiast she is today. Our lives tend to revolve around the Porsche culture. Being such Porsche fanatics, we have become avid Formula One fans and rarely miss watching the races on TV or at watch parties. The precision engineering and performance of Porsche’s cars has influenced us to follow the excitement of the Formula One circuit, and the people who love the sport.

As I mentioned, my wife wasn’t always into cars like me, but she soon became an enthusiast as soon as we purchased our first Porsche, a 2018 718 Cayman. We have had many cars over the years, both domestic and European, but she was truly hooked after meeting the great people of First Settlers and participating in our first Fun Run. We both understood the passion of the members, and the family bond that we experienced made us yearn for more. The Porsche brand brought us in, and the people kept us coming back. We truly love the experience of talking to the FSR members and seeing the incredible display of precision machinery at every meet. We have grown close to the people of the Porsche club and what they represent.

I have been a car fanatic my whole life. One of my first memories of being infatuated with cars was when I was 15 or so and begging my dad for a used black 1976 Chevrolet Monte Carlo with white interior and keystone chrome wheels for sale near my home. I had so many plans for that car, and I knew it would be my first car, no doubt. Unfortunately, my parents didn’t feel the same way about my beloved Monte Carlo, so it was just a dream and nothing more. My true passion by far has always been European cars. We have owned two BMWs, with our most current being a black 1985 E28 with a manual 5-speed transmission with the factory M-Tech package. It’s one of those cars I have searched for during my early adult life, and finally found one in mint condition in 2015

with 49,000 miles. I have only made some minor changes to enhance the driving experience by installing H&R springs and Bilstein shocks along with some 17” staggered BBS/Style-32 wheels. Even though the car is 39 years old, it’s so much fun ripping through the 5-speed transmission on those Virginia back roads.

As previously mentioned, my wife had not been bitten by the car enthusiast bug until we purchased our first Porsche in April 2021. We found our 718 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (Oklahoma City Porsche) and had it shipped to Virginia. What made it stand out to us was the color, graphite blue. Actually, it intrigued my wife more so than me; I wasn’t in love with the color upon first sight. But once it showed up, I understood why she thought it was the best choice for us. Finding a six-speed manual was a must, and it made our search somewhat long and exhausting, and at times we almost gave up. One of the first modifications I made was to add an APR performance software tune which increased the horsepower by 70 hp with 93 octane fuel. The remapping was like night and day when it comes to performance; it really woke the car up and I haven’t had any issues whatsoever. The tune seemed to change the exhaust slightly and decreased turbo lag with additional power/performance around 5000 rpms or so. I have plans to install a valved Fabspeed exhaust (to be installed at the Fabspeed Headquarters in Pennsylvania) this year along with Bilstein adjustable coilovers. Although I have made some changes to my 718, the car is perfect from the factory.

What’s next? We are currently looking for an addition to our Porsche family. We are on the fence between 997/911 GTS or a 991/911S. This will probably be a PDK this time around, but a 6-speed manual is always welcome. It’s great that we can ask our fellow members for advice and general information to help steer us in the right direction so we can make a sound decision on our next Porsche. We really appreciate the closeness of the FSR family and all the knowledge and experience that it brings.

Cheers!

PCA Tech Tactics East 2024: A Weekend of Porsche Passion

By Roops Ramdon

For a tech-savvy, detail-oriented Porsche enthusiast like myself, PCA Tech Tactics East was nothing short of a paradise of Porschephile knowledge. This event, held at the PCNA Dealer Technician Training Facility in Easton, PA, from February 24th to 25th, 2024, offered an unparalleled opportunity to delve into the intricate technicalities of our cherished marque. It was a weekend where passion met precision, and every moment was a revved-up journey into the heart of Porsche engineering.

Mind-blowing Manthey-Racing

One of the highlights of the event was Stewart McLaughlin’s presentation on the fascinating history of Manthey-Racing and its integration with Porsche Tequipment. As he walked us through their journey, we had the chance to admire the Manthey car up close, especially their state-of-the-art alignment machine. What struck me most was the emphasis on Porsche’s philosophy—not just about adding horsepower but about making small, precise tweaks in handling and aerodynamics to achieve unmatched performance. This reminded me that true excellence lies in the details.

Unlocking Hidden Porsche Features

Rolf Kittlitz, a renowned Porsche guru, captivated us with his knowledge of hidden functionalities within our Porsches. I was astonished to discover features in my own car that I never knew existed. Rolf’s session included demonstrations of specialty tools that are essential for any serious Porsche owner. One particular highlight was his technical explanation of why it’s better to start driving your car moderately after start-up rather than letting it idle to warm up. This advice not only promotes engine health and longevity, but also sparked lively discussions among us enthusiasts about best practices.

Oil Additive Myths Debunked

Another memorable session was with Lake Speed Jr., who debunked common myths about oil additives. His clear and practical advice was a game-changer: choose a good oil and avoid mixing additives. Lake emphasized the importance of using a fuel additive with polyether-amine (PEA) annually, a tip that could save many engines from potential trouble. His session underscored the principle of quality over quantity in car maintenance, and I left feeling much more confident about my own maintenance routine.

Tire Technology Insights

Ed Gliss, Michelin’s tire tech guru, shared critical knowledge on tire selection, pressure, and wear—essentials for any spirited Porsche driver. Through infrared photos, Ed demonstrated the impact of tire pressure on the contact patch, underscoring the sophisticated engineering behind tire design. This session was particularly eye-opening, as it revealed how much thought and precision go into something as seemingly simple as tire pressure. Proper tire maintenance, I learned, is crucial for both performance and safety.

Planning Your Porsche’s Future

Lee Giannone from Mecum Auctions provided invaluable insights on planning for our Porsches’ future, be it through preservation, modification, or sale. His advice on understanding the market trends and making informed decisions about our prized possessions was enlightening. I learned how to better appreciate the long-term value of my car and the importance of keeping up with maintenance and documentation.

Barn-Find to Beauty

John Paterek’s restoration journey of a 356 was a true testament to Porsche’s timeless heritage. His meticulous process from a barn-find to a stunning beauty showcased the dedication and passion inherent in the Porsche community. Watching the transformation was inspiring, and it was a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving and celebrating Porsche history. John’s story was a highlight for me, as it beautifully illustrated the blend of artistry and engineering that defines Porsche.

Preparing Your Porsche for the Track

Brian Gay’s session on preparing our Porsches for the track was packed with practical tips and insights. From safety checks to performance enhancements, Brian covered everything we need to know to get our cars track ready. His emphasis on balancing performance with safety was particularly valuable, and I left the session with a clearer understanding of how to optimize my car for both daily driving and track days.

Die-Cast Model Concours

The Die-Cast Model Concours was a delightful addition to the event. There were numerous impressive car setups on display, with one participant even creating a full car dealership complete with customers and a waiting lobby. The creativity and attention to detail were remarkable, and it was great to see such enthusiasm. Cool prizes were awarded, adding to the fun and excitement of the concours.

Personal Highlights

Driving my yellow Boxster S to Tech Tactics, I was particularly excited to find a Boxster twin to my car there. It belonged to someone I had spoken to online from New York, and we bonded over our shared modifications. It was a joy to finally meet in person and compare notes on our cars.

I was also thrilled to see my good friend, Scott Orr, at the event. Meeting lots of great people and hearing their stories was one of the highlights of the weekend. I was amazed to meet a gentleman who had attended all 43 Tech Tactics events, a testament to the enduring appeal and value of this gathering.

A Gathering of Enthusiasts

Tech Tactics East wasn’t just about learning; it was also a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow Porsche enthusiasts. The camaraderie and shared passion for Porsche made the event even more special. Whether it was discussing the finer points of car maintenance or simply admiring each other’s vehicles, the sense of community was palpable.

Conclusion

Tech Tactics East 2024 was an enlightening experience, filled with technical knowledge and camaraderie. For any Porsche enthusiast, especially those with a technical bent, this event is a must-attend. The hands-on learning and expert insights provided a deeper appreciation for the engineering excellence of Porsche. I highly recommend attending Tech Tactics if you have the chance. It’s a perfect blend of education, networking, and sheer Porsche passion. As I drove back home to Hampton, VA, I felt a renewed connection to my car and the vibrant PCA community.

Let’s work together to redefine what it means to drive impact in commercial construction.