SAMA
got off to a great start in the new year when more than 40 members and
guests attended the January luncheon sponsored by Acura, which was
represented by Sara Pines, regional media relations manager for Acura;
Gary Robinson, National Manager, Acura PR; and Chuck Schifsky, manager
of Acura Regional PR Operations.
Members started
gathering at 11:30 at the Tempo hotel on Biscayne Boulevard, where the
second-story venue provided views of the Port of Miami in the afternoon
sunlight.
President Paul Borden
called the business session to order just after noon.
Several news items
were noted:
Joe Castello’s WFO
Radio show was recognized as The Internet Radio Show of the Year in
voting conducted by of CompetitionPlus.com. This is really a great award
for Joe, one of the hardest workers in the business.
Bill Adam has been
selected to do commentary for ABC’s coverage of the American Le Mans
Series racing, which starts at Sebring and includes races in Long Beach
and Toronto. This, too, is great news but with a downside: Bill is going
to have to give up driving in the Historic Sports Car racing series,
where he has won several championships.
Nathalie Salas from
Homestead-Miami Speedway reminded members about the upcoming Grand Prix
of Miami on March 5 at the speedway. You can find more information about
the event at the website
www.homesteadmiamispeedway.com.
Treasurer and
membership chairman Marcello Serrato introduced new members Vivian
Crucet and Jason Alpert and noted that a third new member, Steven Marks,
would be attending future events. We are continuing to grow, and it’s
thanks to your participation as members.
The program featured
a preview by Gary Robinson of Acura’s all-new TSX Sport Wagon, a vehicle
that combines the features and comfort of the popular TSX sedan with the
functionality and carrying capacity of a wagon. The entire TSX line has
received some refinements such as a new front fascia, new chin spoiler
and fog lights, and a revised grille, similar to but slightly smaller
than its predecessor.
After the presentation,
members were able to get a close look at the vehicle in the valet area
at the entrance.
We want to thank Acura
for hosting our kickoff luncheon for 2011 and look forward to a later
event sponsored by Honda.
Our next SAMA meeting
will be February 18. Be sure to check your email box for further details
on the site.
As at our first
luncheon of the year, we will look to start gathering at 11:30 a.m., so
please arrange your schedules accordingly.
Also, if you have not
paid your dues, please make arrangements to do so with Marcello Serrato.
He can get you an invoice if you require one. Fees, etc., are on the
website.
Looking forward to
seeing you in February and beyond!