STERLING BRITISH MOTORING SOCIETY -- February 4, 2003

The Sterling British Motoring Society grinds on through another Kentucky winter. The rain, wind, ice, clouds and cold temperatures call into question whether sunshine will ever return. To make matters even more infuriating, our rare warm days still find us stymied in terms of British car driving because of the salt spread generously on the roadways. This time of year thus finds most of us brooding around the garage, pretending to do repairs, and impatiently biding our time.

Perhaps the only ray of light which penetrates this abysmal weather is found in our meetings on the first Tuesday of each month at 6:30 PM. These gatherings involve a little business, and socializing amidst good food and drink. For the past couple months, we have met at the Old Silo Golf Course in Mt. Sterling -- a site which offers a private room and an excellent buffet meal. This arrangement greatly shortens our meetings, and permits more time for important discussions about our cars. Because the price is right, the beer cold, the surroundings salubrious, and the location central, we will meet there again on March 4.

Other short-term plans include our annual trip to 'Moyers' Winery on Saturday, March 15. This journey takes us through Flemingsburg and Maysville, across the bridge into Ohio, and up the river to the winery. The food and service are always good, and the wine is varied and relatively inexpensive. Susan Wills will make the arrangements, as always. Feel free to email Mike Razor with any questions or for directions.

Discussion continues as to other trips and events, including a possible trek to a new restaurant near Natural Bridge State Park. Be sure and provide your ideas either to Mike or at one of our monthly meetings.

With any kind of luck, we can have a trip or outing planned for every warm weather month.

Of course, our principal activity this time of year will involve planning for The Bash. This all-British event has grown yearly, and has become a favorite regional springtime kickoff for our British cars. As is always the case, The Bash will be held on the first weekend in May, and will be headquartered at The Springs Inn in Lexington, Kentucky. The weekend will begin late Friday afternoon and evening with registration in our hospitality room, outstanding snacks and beverages provided by our club, and general discussion about the adventure of driving all the way to Kentucky. Saturday morning will find us topping up the oil and coolant in anticipation of our popular scenic tour around the Bluegrass; this always involves a different route, and always offers a glimpse of our beautiful Kentucky countryside. Lunch will be enjoyed on the road, and we will return to enjoy/revel in a Derby party and auction of valuable automotive parts. Although the club will provide donuts for Saturday and Sunday morning, and while the snacks will be available all weekend, meals are otherwise on your own and will offer a fine opportunity to experience some of Lexington's best eateries.

Those who have attended The Bash in the past should receive registration materials in the near future. Otherwise, just make contact with Del White, and he will be glad to send registration materials. You should also call The Springs Inn (859-277-5751), tell them that you are with the British Bash, and book your room. We guarantee a fine, fun-filled weekend. Be there!

Catesby Woodford, Editor

(This article is also published in The British Marque Car Club News)