Havasupai 2021 Rallye - October 22-24, 2021 - Desert Stars
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July August 2021
Havasupai 2021 Rallye – October 22-24, 2021
Rallye Masters – Ed and Annette Crawford
We need to make a U-Turn!” “We’re off course!” These
statements are often spoken between the driver and the navigator
on a Desert Stars Rallye. We know this because Annette and I
have personally said these words to each other on previous
Desert Stars events. We must now use these words regarding the
location and plans for the upcoming Havasupai 2021. We took a
U-turn and the Fall Havasupai 2021 will now be taking fellow
Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts to Northern Arizona.
Mark your calendar for October 22-24 for a
weekend of fun and camaraderie with your fellow
Desert Star members. Our accommodations on
Friday and Saturday will be familiar to most
members, as we converge on Little America
Hotel located in Flagstaff, Arizona. We have
negotiated a limited number of rooms at the
special rate of $199.00/night (plus 11.18% tax).
Registrants will need to book their hotel rooms
directly with the hotel and for your convenience;
the hotel has established an 800 number for
reservations, which is 1-800-352-4386. When
calling, please make sure to mention “Desert Stars
Mercedes Benz Club” to receive the negotiated
rate. Please note that your room and tax are the
responsibility of individual member. The Havasupai 2021 registration fee is $249.00 per
couple. Single/additional registrant fee is $125.00. Fees
cover Friday evening’s appetizers, Saturday’s lunch,
Saturday evening’s awards dinner and prizes for those
that compete in the Rallye, and non-alcoholic beverages
at meals. As with all Desert Stars events, alcoholic
beverages are the members’ responsibility. Lastly,
breakfast each morning is on your own. The weekend
events will start late Friday afternoon with hosted
appetizers.
Continued on page 4
Page 2 The StarDust
President’s Message
By Debbie Ichiyama July – August 2021
Volume 57 Number 4
The Desert Stars are very fortunate to have awesome ©2021 MBCA Desert Stars Section
The StarDust Newsletter is published by the MBCA
members and volunteers who work hard to make the club the Desert Stars Section bi-monthly. All rights reserved.
success it is. I would like to thank everyone who has stepped Permission to reprint original articles is expressly granted
to all MBCA Sections.
up for all the hard work.
Newsletter Editor:
Interim Debbie Ichiyama
But we can’t do it alone, we need your help. If you have a • Email StarDustMBCA@gmail.com
favorite restaurant that you would like to share with other Contributing Credits for this Issue:
members please consider inquiring about setting up a “Star Ron Borino
Ed Crawford
Night” gathering there. If there is any other event that you Debbie Ichiyama
think the club would like to participate in, please reach out Chuck Stanford
and we are here to help you organize and plan. Photography Credits for this issue:
Mark Ichiyama
Chuck Stanford
Enjoy your summer and watch for emails about any events
that may take place during the summer. Activities & Events:
Karen Manser
• Email nspinaz@gmail.com
Advertising:
Ron Borino
• Email advertising@desertstars.club
Website: https://desertstars.mbca.org/
Facebook: DesertStarsMBCA
Twitter: @MBCADesertStars
Club Email: desertstars@desertstars.club
Welcome our new Members!
April May
Norman Ernst Hazel Giannino
Stefan Hannes Paulette Johnson
Gary Orman Dennis Lloyd
Richard Paixao Michael Shulman
Jeff Palmer
Peter Pfeffer
Donald Rutherford
“More Than a Car Club | We’re a Community”
Desert Stars Section Officers and Board Members
Officers: Directors: Chairs:
President: Ron Borino (602) 550-9939 Activities & Events:
Debbie Ichiyama (480) 268-9535 Katherine Coult (480) 907-4248 Karen Manser
Ed Crawford (562) 505-7698 Membership:
Vice President:
Carey Hobson (480) 455-9201
Karen Manser (425) 478-5509 Debbie Ichiyama
Kathy Hobson (480) 455-9202
Treasurer: John Hutchison (480) 473-4887 Publicity/Webmaster:
Rhonda Borino (602) 989-6833 Bob Yoder (480) 998-0194 Mark Ichiyama
Secretary: Newsletter Advertising:
Interim SW Regional Director: Ron Borino
Karen Manser (425) 478-5509 Bud Cloninger (602) 326-6210 Newsletter Editor:
Interim Debbie Ichiyama
July – August 2021
The StarDust Page 3
Tech Session Airpark Collision Center September 18
9:00 -AM 11:00 AM
7333 E Butherus Dr. Suite A-200 Scottsdale AZ
By special invitation from Tina Small of Airpark Collision please join us for a special tech session sponsored
by them. Snacks and refreshments included.
They will demonstrate how repair methods for aluminum panels differ from techniques and tools used for
steel repair. Also, see their latest piece of high tech equipment-the Matrix Wand. An advanced camera
system helping to ensure that vehicle measurements are properly restored to pre-accident condition.
Airpark Collision Center was opened in 2006 by Gerald Small, a master auto refinish technician. Starting in
the industry in 1988 at a BMW collision repair center, Gerald worked to be the best at his trade and
eventually opened his very own shop. To this day it continues to be family owned. You will find his wife Tina
at the front desk and Gerald performing quality controlling for each car in process.
Restoring vehicles to factory specifications has always been the focus. Airpark Collision Center uses top
notch materials, factory paint, and employs very skilled technicians. This combination allows the shop to
meet high customer expectations. Each year ACC continues to earn the highest certification in the industry, I
- Car Gold Class. This certification means technicians train annually and use the latest industry repair
methods. With technology and safety standards changing everyday, customers can count on a proper
repair.
For over 11 years, the level of attention and quality has earned Airpark Collision Center a reputation for
repairing high end vehicles like Mercedes Benz and other premium brands. Their philosophy of competitive
pricing, best quality, issuing completion dates and solid customer service has allowed ACC to strongly
compete with other auto body shops in the valley.
RSVP to Tina Small at tina@airparkcollisioncenter.com
July - August 2021
Page 4 The StarDust
Havasuapai continued
On Saturday morning, we will, in essence, have two Rallye’s, the traditional, competitive rallye with prizes for
the top 3 winners AND a “Relax- A-Rallye” where registrants can come and enjoy the camaraderie, scenic
drives, and sharing meals together without feeling that they have to “compete”. Those choosing the “relax-a-
rallye” will be provided with a map and timetable for the day to enjoy a more leisurely event, but will not be
eligible for the rallye prizes/awards.
Registration form is on page 7
Ed & Annette Crawford
The Rallyemasters
Watch for an email about an upcoming Star Night
July – August 2021
The StarDust Page 5
Annual Meeting
By Debbie Ichiyama
MBCA Desert Stars
Annual Meeting and Breakfast
Minutes
Saturday May 22, 2021
Soul Cafe
8:00 AM
Board Members Present: Karen Manser, Debbie Ichiyama, Bob Yoder, Carey Hobson, Kathy Hobson,
John Hutchinson
Board Members Absent: Susan Cadis, Ron Borino
Others in Attendance: Mark Ichiyama, Ed Crawford, Annette Crawford, Steve Jensen, Marianne
Hutchinson, Kim Cesal, David Cesal, Harriott Gartner, Elliott Gartner, Ava Stanford, Chuck Stanford, Ed
Kasmar, Joyce Kasmar
Minutes Taken by: Karen Manser
The meeting informally started at 8:00 AM. Nineteen people were in attendance.
The following was included in the recap:
Current membership 346
Desert Stars – Financially strong with no debt and reserves of $27,097.81
Activities and Events over the last year – 5 events (including 1 regional) and 1 Star Night
Class of 2021 Retiring Directors – Susan Cadis
Desert Stars Leadership
Activities and Events Karen Manser
Advertising Ron Borino
Membership Debbie Ichiyama
Newsletter Editor Debbie Ichiyama (Interim)
Publicity/Webmaster Mark Ichiyama
Chief Information Officer Bob Yoder
July - August 2021
Page 6 The StarDust
Ballots were distributed for Officer and Directors as follows:
Candidate Slate for Officers
President: Debbie Ichiyama
Vice President: Karen Manser
Treasurer: Rhonda Borino
Secretary: Karen Manser (Interim)
Candidate Slate for Class of 2024
Katherine Coult
Ed Crawford
All were elected with 29 yes votes, 10 were received electronically.
Meeting concluded at approximately 9:30 AM.
Enjoying Breakfast and catching up with friends
Enjoying Breakfast and catching up with friends
July – August 2021
The StarDust Page 7
Havasupai
Please register and pay by, October 1, 2021
Name(s) Registering: _____________________________________ Number Attending: _______
Phone No.: ________________________Day/ Night Email Address: ________________________________
Registration Fee is $249.00 per couple. Single/additional registrant fee is $125.00. Registration fee includes Friday
evening appetizers, Saturday lunch, Saturday night awards dinner, non-alcoholic beverages at meals, and
awards/prizes.
Remember to book your accommodations directly with the hotel by contacting Little America Flagstaff @ 1-800-352-4386.
Please let them know you are with the Mercedes Benz Club. Our negotiated rate is $199.99 per night. Please note that there
are a limited number of rooms available at the special rate and are encouraged to make reservations by September 22, 2021.
Reservations made after September are subject to higher rates and subject to availability.
Make your check payable to: MBCA Desert Stars; and mail to:
MBCA Desert Stars c/o Debbie Ichiyama
6502 E Evans Drive, Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Credit Card payments available: Call Debbie Ichiyama at (480) 268-9535.
July - August 2021
Page 8 The StarDust
Sponsor Spotlight – Radford Racing School
1. Tell us a little about Radford Racing School and its history.
2.
Radford Racing School, the Official High Performance Driving School of Dodge//SRT, is a premier
performance driving and racing training center offering world-class experiences. Located in Chandler,
the school offers more than 100 race-prepared vehicles, sedans, SUVs, Ligier JS F4 single seaters,
and gas-powered go karts. Radford Racing School includes state-of-the-art facilities and event space
for private parties and corporate meetings.
The school has been in operation for 53 years and is the site where professional drivers, celebrities,
sports stars, everyday drivers, and teens have trained. It rebranded this spring from Bondurant High
Performance Driving School to the Radford Racing School. The name change is part of the school’s
evolution into more of an experience destination and a go-to spot for celebrities and influencers who
are passionate about cars. Kevin Hart and Christian Bale are two of the recent visitors to add their
names to the storied guest list that has included Tom Cruise, Clint Eastwood, Paul Newman, and
many others. The new name is part of the next chapter of the school, capping off a renovation and
expansion, enhanced curriculum, new courses and license-earning opportunities, and new association
with the lifestyle Radford brand, and much more to come.
3. What types of driver training does Radford Racing School offer?
High-performance driving courses, Grand Prix and advanced road racing, drag racing, new driver
training, police and military training (available to civilians too), a course for new owners of Dodge//SRT
vehicles which comes free with purchase of the vehicle, and private instruction.
4. Can the track be configured for different driving situations?
There are several tracks, including drag and off-road, a safety course pad and a main track that is a
15-turn, 1.6-mile road course used for high-performance, race cars, and go karts.
5. Are there any special qualifications or certifications that Radford Racing School has?
Radford Racing School is the only school in the world that offers the opportunity for guests to earn
both a SCCA and NHRA license. Its 9-Second Club program is approved by NHRA as part of the drag
racing course. Students in the course can participate in an optional extended program to earn their 9-
second license from the NHRA. Following private, one-on-one instruction, each driver runs a minimum
of two eighth mile passes and quarter mile passes behind the wheel of a dedicated, race fuel Dodge
Demon. Students who successfully complete two passes in under 9.99 seconds or reach a speed of
135 mph twice will earn their NHRA 9 Second license.
6. Who is Radford Racing School typical client?
Every day drivers who are auto enthusiasts who return for multiple experiences, send their teens, and
host parties or encourage their employers to use the track for events. Guests become loyal fans of the
school and its world-renown instructors.
July – August 2021
The StarDust Page 9
7. What else can you tell us about the facility?
Guests can bring their own cars to drive on the track during open track days or in groups when they
rent the track. The curriculum on the school’s classic courses has been enhanced. And the entire
facility has been renovated and expanded, including the first resurfacing of the main track in 30 years,
enhancements to the event center, visitor center, gift shop, student lounge, classrooms, skills pad, and
eagle’s nest viewing platform. The school is also located on the Gila River Tribal community that offers
overnight accommodations and other entertainment, which is perfect for visitors taking multi-day
courses at the school.
8. What kind of events can be hosted at Radford Racing School?
From small events like birthday and bachelor parties to large corporate team-building and incentive
outings. The school has a large, renovated event center that opens onto the track and an auto
showroom. A huge parking lot also accommodates major events such as live concerts and car shows.
Hot laps, lead and follows, go karting are popular experiences. The school also has a new Radford
Rides program when guests start at the track, visit private auto collections around the Phoenix area,
and take scenic drives around the picturesque landscape. The Rides experience includes track time in
Dodge//SRT Hellcats and gourmet meals.
Dodge SRT Redeye Radford Driving School F4 Twilight Final
Radford Racing School Track at Sunset
July - August 2021
Page 10 The StarDust
Local Car Culture
The Scottsdale Motorsports Gathering
7:00-10:00 am on the first Saturday of every month.
Free for spectators!
Market Street at DC Ranch
20789 N Pima Rd
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Alpio’s @ TROON
Car’s & COFFEE at Pinacle Peak
7:00 – 10:00 am on the second Saturday of every month.
10452 East Jomax
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
July – August 2021The StarDust Page 11
Barrett Jackson Road Tour
By Ron Borino
In the month of May, Rhonda and I participated in the 2nd Barrett Jackson Road Tour which began in
Scottsdale and ended in Tacoma Washington. These tours are exclusive experiences that combine scenic
routes, national landmarks, money-can't-buy activities, fine dining and luxurious hotels. The tours are
comprised of Barrett-Jackson customers, influential business executives and collector car hobbyists. Road
Tours offer guests the chance to get out and drive their collector cars while exploring some of the most
beautiful landscapes our country has to offer - and to show that these cars are as much fun to enjoy as they
are to display. We visited some very cool museums, private car collections and famous racing facilities as part
of an intimate group of like-minded car enthusiasts. Each day of driving culminated with nightly gatherings for
dinner and socializing at some upscale hotels and resorts. We participated in the tour in our 2014 Mercedes
SL550 and were able to easily pack for the 8 daylong event.
To sum things up we had an absolute blast! If you ever get the opportunity to do so take the tour.
Please take a look at the link to see what we experienced https://barrettjacksonroadtours.com/tour/may-
2021/ and view each of the videos and selected photos from day 1 through day 8.
Thinking of Visiting Germany?
By Chuck Stanford, Jr.
Of all the benefits your MBCA membership brings, certainly one of the most enticing is the opportunity to visit
Germany and the home of all things bearing the three-pointed STAR! For many years, groups of 12-20 members
have enjoyed week-long tours of the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart and Classic Center at Fellbach, the
expansive assembly plant at Sindelfingen, the AMG engine shop, and various Mercedes-Benz tuners, restorers,
and other historical sites. Enthusiast guides make sure there really is something for everyone, with lodging and
authentic German cuisine absolutely first class!
Many travelers chose to extend their stay in Europe with an accompanying River Cruise or side trip elsewhere in
Germany or Europe. And a new option is enthusiast driving tours in Germany, France or Italy with vintage
Mercedes-Benz SL roadsters!
Like most everything else, the pandemic has had an effect on our trips, causing postponement in 2020 and 2021
due to travel and business restrictions in Germany. Already, the German Government has announced that all
2021 Oktoberfest Activities are cancelled, and most of the museums and restaurants we typically visit during the
MBCA Trips are still closed.
We believe that 2022 will bring back these very worthwhile tours, which are an excellent benefit and value for Club
members. We are hopeful that spring, summer and fall 2022 trips will be available for members. If you would like
t to keep up to date on the status and availability of travel, please let me know and I’ll add you to my list for periodic
updates as the travel picture becomes clearer. You can also find regular updates in The STAR.
Hope to see you in Stuttgart in 2022!
Chuck Stanford, Jr.
MBCA German Trip Leiter The Visitor Center at AMG’s Campus is a
MBCA-Trips@outlook.com popular stop for all members
Sedona AZ
July - August 2021Page 12 The StarDust
July – August 2021The StarDust Page 13
Your Company Could Be Here
We welcome inquiries from businesses who would like to advertise to an influential group of purchasers.
Call Ron Borino at 602-550-9939 for information.
July - August 2021Page 14 The StarDust
As a Desert Star. You can list your for-sale Mercedes-Benz here and let all our readers
know it’s available for them to enjoy. Whether you have a high mile driver, or a collectible
with more wax than miles on it, contact us and get your car listed in the StarDust. Contact
info StarDustMBCA@gmail.com
July – August 2021The StarDust Page 15
Please support our awesome sponsors and small
business owner, when possible. Let them know
you heard of them through the Star Dust.
July - August 2021Page 16 The StarDust
Keep your address updated with the
MBCA National Business Office at
(800) 637-2360
Online at http://mbca.org
Update your email address with The National Business Office
Contact our Membership Chair, Debbie Ichiyama, at 480-268-9535 or dichiyama@me.com
SAVE THESE DATES
September 18 Saturday Tech Session ACC
Oct 22 - 24 Fri - Sun Havasupai
TBD Arboretum & Lunch
Dec 5 (tentative) Sunday Holiday Party
January 29, 2022 Saturday MB Enthusiast Dinner
Visit us at:
www.desertstars.mbca.org
Like us on Facebook
DesertStarsMBCA
Follow us on Twitter
@MBCADesertStars
July – August 2021You can also read
