Monthly Newsletter for June 2005
| Table of Contents |
| Note from Rob |
Sorry for the late newsletter. I've been behind as this is my busiest time of the year. Following Indianapolis my schedule clears up for the 2nd half of the year and I can get back on schedule along with providing many planned enhancements. We are still working on the 2nd Issue of Velostrada, please stay tuned as more great articles written by the top Ferrari personalities in the World are included.
Now and then users need to hear from me about the "State of FerrariChat.com". I can't say it much better than this recent post...
First of all, I appreciate everyone's feedback online and offline. I appreciate everyone's support. It may not seem like it individually, but I love and want nothing but the best for the entire FerrariChat.com community. I think that defines everything simply that sometimes I have to make tough decisions that aren't popular to do what I think is best overall. Taking on sponsors for the site wasn't popular for the majority of users at that time. Switching and upgrading software was never popular for the majority (each and every time). Adding moderators, creating forum rules, and enforcing those rules wasn't popular when implemented. Starting subscriptions wasn't popular.
So who wants me to revert FerrariChat.com back to 1999 Discusware software, hosted on a shared 500 Mb. drive, networked 124k speeds, no moderators, no rules, public open forums, and no restrictions on users? There will be no archives, no user profiles, no FerrariAds.com, and no Velostrada.
It has been no easy task to evolve the way we have with the number of users we have. Maybe not popular, but I believe FerrariChat.com will be of the highest quality and have the longest endurance if operated as a business. If I didn't think so, I would hand pick 1,000 users and lock it down with no extras like the day we started and described above. Do you think any community out there will last more than several years without strong passion and capital to keep it going? Why would I want to continue the way we are without profit potential or at least breaking even? I lost over $20,000 in FerrariChat.com from 2000 to 2003. Last year we made a profit on paper that amounted to around a dollar an hour for my time. We have no office, we have no utilities, we have no employees, and I make no money as every extra dollar goes back into making the community better for YOU. So take that profit figure with a grain of salt we really don't have many expenses.
So I think there are several keys to the success and quality of FerrariChat.com.
I'm not afraid to remove any individual if I think it is better for the overall community. I will remove any challenges to our positive evolving community precisely and swiftly. Those are the tough micro-decisions I have to make.
Looking forward there are no issues related to not enough growth. We are continuing to add 800 new users a month. Many of these are owners, soon to be owners, people in the industry, or just people with a passion for Ferrari. We have to constantly find the best formula to balance the benefits of a public community while maintain the quality of users and posts. Each and every user is partially responsible. First of all in their own right and secondly to be part of the "neighborhood watch". Don't expect someone else to always be there to ensure the quality of FerrariChat.com, each and every good user should take on this responsibility.
Sincerely,
rob
| Thread of the Month |
At last, the cause of 308 backfiring...
| Site Statistics |
| User Statistics |
Top 20 Posters...
| User Name | Join Date |
Posts
 |
Last Visit | Full Name | Location | Personal Ferraris |
| NNO | 08-03-2002 | 19,163 | Yesterday | Scuderia Carbon | Atlanta, GA. | Do 1:18s count...? |
| Wolfgang | 03-08-2003 | 13,772 | 06-09-2005 | Wolfgang | Germany, Heidelberg | `91 Testarossa ZFFAA17B000091239 |
| Rob Lay | 12-01-2000 | 13,334 | Today | Rob Lay | Southlake, TX | 1986 328 GTS, 1995 355 Challenge |
| BigTex | 12-06-2002 | 10,019 | 06-08-2005 | Bubba | Houston, Texas | '42 - '04 |
| matteo | 08-01-2002 | 9,547 | Today | Heir Butt | stuck in Indy now | 83 308 QV GTS #45563 |
| Cavallino Motors | 05-31-2001 | 9,216 | Today | Martin W. | Miami Beach | 355 Challenge, 360 Challenge |
| tonyh | 12-23-2002 | 9,125 | Today | Tony H | SW London | 355 Spider |
| tifosi12 | 10-03-2002 | 9,119 | 06-10-2005 | Andreas | USA | 308 QV |
| maranelloman | 01-31-2002 | 9,000 | Today | Wilma Dikphit | location location | 550 Maranello |
| darth550 | 07-14-2003 | 8,308 | Today | Darth Diggler | Westwood, CA | '98 550 |
| MarkPDX | 04-21-2003 | 8,117 | Today | 2932N09816W | ||
| Dino 208gt4 | 06-24-2003 | 7,665 | Today | Roel B. | Dutch Mountains | 1982 Mondial 8 Rosso Corsa |
| Gimme Fuel | 03-15-2003 | 6,914 | Today | Paul (Norway) | NurburgRing....soon | About 150 (1/18) |
| jimpo1 | 07-30-2001 | 6,862 | Today | Jim E | Dallas, TX | 1987 328 GTS |
| ForzaFerrari | 07-25-2003 | 6,788 | 06-09-2005 | Waldo | The Netherlands | none...yet |
| BWS550 | 04-01-2002 | 6,722 | Today | BRUCE WELLINGTON | NEW JERSEY | 2000 TDF 550 |
| Mrs_Bugattiart | 06-23-2004 | 6,680 | Today | Tina Christensen | Denmark | unfortunately none |
| Auraraptor | 09-25-2002 | 6,540 | Today | Omar | Charm City | "Alissa" SN# 77353 |
| 2000YELLOW360 | 06-05-2001 | 6,477 | Today | Art | California | N/A |
| Fan512bbi | 03-25-2004 | 6,464 | Today | Steve. | Wales-UK | 456GTA soon |
| Sponsors |
Tubi Style are the worlds premier aftermaket performance exhaust manufacturer, specializing in high-end performance road-car applications.
With the complexity of modern performance cars, a special exhaust note alone is insufficient. Each owner can rest assured that his or her Tubi Style has been painstakingly developed to yield a power increase, outstanding durability, excellent fitment, lower running temperatures than stock discreet special looks and of course, a truly spectacular exhaust note. This ability to develop such all round excellence is UNIQUE to Tubi Style - the factory has leveraged it's location in world-famous Maranello, Italy with it's outstanding record in International Motorsport applications to develop the worlds finest all-round sport exhaust equipment applications. Tubi Style's world-beating product range consists of everything from replacement stainless-steel mufflers up to special equal length headers made of F1-inspired Inconel for some of worlds most exotic and sophisticated performance cars. No other manufacturer has access to such outstanding developmental resources (all local to the factory) and the ability to create such thoroughly engineered products which will THRILL the buyer! Click on the banner and welcome to Tubi Style.
 |
The Bridgehampton Motoring Club is unlike any collector car facility in the nation. BMC offers what was once only available to private collectors with tremendous resources: the perfect home for your important automobiles. We provide 24 hour key card access, humidity and temperature control, comprehensive video security, epoxy floors, tasteful lighting, rare automobilia, and most importantly services: Pick/up and delivery, battery maintenance, bi-weekly mechanical integrity routines, and detailing. Every member of BMC has unfettered access to their collection. Finally, the perfect way to enjoy your passion. http://www.bridgemc.com/ |
 |
Carrozzeria Design is the authorized dealer of full tuning lines and accessories that cater to the discerning customer. Our passion, professionalism and attention to detail towards vehicle customization enable us to transform your dreams into reality. Full tuning lines for Aston Martin, Audi, BMW, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Mercedes Benz, and Porsche are available to individualize your vehicle. Accessories such as Brembo brakes, HRE wheels, KW suspensions, or Remus exhausts provide further options in the creation of your perfect vehicle. The combination of a retail facility in Irvine, California, along with a strong online presence, allow us to completely satisfy your vehicle tuning needs. http://www.carrozzeriadesign.com |
 |
CarStore of Glenside has been known for locating and selling Ferrari and other exotic sports cars since 1988. Owner Tom Mellett was a fully factory trained and Master ASE technician by age 19. Manager Carol Morwald is without a doubt the most professional person you will have the pleasure to meet in the Automobile business. These are real car people. Neither of them sold a car before launching the CarStore of Glenside. The CarStore of Glenside is a business that was developed out of the passion these two have for exotic and highline cars. The success of the CarStore of Glenside has developed from the enjoyment they get out of finding the right car for the right value and then placing it in the right home. We hope that next home is yours. http://www.carstoreofglenside.com/ |
|
|
Cavallino Motors is proud to offer Ferrari sales and consignments to Ferrari owners and fans straight from another Ferrari owner. Who better to give you advise on Ferraris than another owner. Feel free to visit our website and browse our inventory. We gladly take your car for sale as a consignment. No obligation to you and you keep your car until we have a buyer to match. All consignments are a flat fee, no matter if it is a 308 or a 250GTO. Our business is Ferrari ONLY. http://www.4ferrari.com |
 |
We would like to take this opportunity to introduce you to Cavallino Models. We are diecast model collector's source for rare and custom 1/18-scale Ferrari models. Along with limited production models we carry various hand-built and custom painted models, and will try to locate or custom make any model we do not have. Please feel free to email us at cavallinomodels@attbi.com. We will be happy to answer any of your questions. We hope to do business in the future. Please visit our website at http://www.cavallinomodels.com. |
 |
CAROBU Engineering LLC provides performance engine building, restoration and performance accessories for Ferrari and other exotic marques. CAROBU Engineering LLC is uniquely positioned to develop performance engine packages for vintage race-cars. Utilizing state-of-the-art techniques including engine design software, flow bench testing, engine dynamometer testing combined with experience of over 30 years of Ferrari engine building, an optimal engine package is assured. CAROBU Engineering LLC can provide full-scale restorations for vintage Ferraris in our well-equipped restoration shop. CAROBU Enginnering LLC is also a dealer for Tubi-Style, Brembo, Koni, Novitec-Rosso and Razzo Rosso products. http://www.carobu.com/ |
 |
New and used Ferrari parts. Everything Ferrari. Body panels,Bumpers,engines, ect. http://www.ferraripartsexchange.com |
 |
FerrariStuff.com is a virtual heaven for the Ferrari fanatic... Our offerings range from brochures, parts catalogs, owner's manuals and media kits to press sheets, vintage Ferrari photographs, modified scale models and autographed items such as F1 car parts signed by Michael Schumacher and vintage letters signed by the great man, Enzo Ferrari himself. Feel free to browse our website at http://www.FerrariStuff.com which carries over 1,000 different Ferrari collectables or contact us at your leisure at info@ferraristuff.com. |
 |
Ferrari UK has been entrusted by the Ferrari factory to be guardians of the marque for world-wide parts distribution for vehicles which have been out of production for ten or more years. Ferrari UK have the largest stock of parts in the world for these models and are in a unique position, being able to remanufacture Ferrari spare parts from the original drawings and specifications with the full authority of Ferrari SpA. http://www.ferrariparts.co.uk |
 |
FX Performance has been built from the ground up with the passion and the knowledge derived from the racing world. Lucio Nicolodi won as a driver the 2001 North American Ferrari 360 Challenge Championship. Costantino Bertuzzi was the team manager for both winning teams of the 2001 and 2002 seasons, not to mention the World Champion driver for 1996, 1997 and 1998, and a Ferrari Factory test driver for several years. This new state of the art technical, engineering and body shop brings into one very convenient location all the fundamental elements necessary to a perfectionist philosophy of work. We are committed to producing art out of our makings, and every repair, every service and every upgrade gives us an opportunity to excel. http://www.fxperformance.com/fx/ |
 |
Girodisc is a company dedicated to brake component and system engineering and development for racing and high performance automobiles. Girodisc produces a line of two-piece replacement discs for select models and develops individual brake components and entire systems for road, racing, and manufacturers. http://www.girodisc.com/ |
 |
H3R halon fire extinguishers have a rapidly growing following among Ferrari enthusiasts for the same reasons they are the standard for commercial aircraft: Halon is extremely effective, and will not corrode electronics or surface finishes like common dry chemical extinguishers do. In fact, halon leaves no mess at all, while dry chemical extinguishers can cause more damage than the fire itself! Contact H3R at http://www.h3r.com/products/home_vehicle.htm info@h3r.com, or 800-249-4289 and see why FerrariChat.com members are among our most satisfied customers! |
 |
Highlinewheels is the leading distributor of modular wheels in the nation. Our new line of G-Force wheels are especially designed and custom built for your Ferrari. These custom wheels are available in all original colors and found nowhere else. Highlinewheels is focused on the uncompromising standards of engineering, innovation and quality for its customer. http://www.hlwcorp.com |
 |
Hill Engineering has been established for over 50 years and has been supplying the F1 & Motorsport industry with ultra high quality precision components for the last 25 years. All of our products are designed & manufactured at our factory in London where we use state of the art manufacturing processes. Our goal is to provide a first class product at a price that you would expect to pay direct from the manufacturer. http://www.hill-engineering.co.uk |
 |
At Meridian Automotive Design we have built the foundation of our business on taking some of the most exemplary vehicles and raising the performance standards above and beyond the benchmarks set by some of the finest factories in the world. Through a combination of factory perfect product, unparalleled customer service, and impeccable installation all working in concert, we provide the ultimate atmosphere for the most discriminating enthusiast. From adding fifty additional horsepower to a brand new Stradale, or making a standard 360 Modena fit you better than a fine Italian suit, there is no challenge we can't tackle. While the world's finest tailors use the finest fabrics, we utilize the world's finest aftermarket products. http://www.meridianonline.us/ |
 |
NAPerformance specializes in OEM and Aftermarket Ferrari parts. We also build custom parts for any customers upon request. NAPerformance will pricematch and beat all competitors prices. Call us today at 405-255-1803 or email Kevin@NAPerformance.com. |
 |
Newport Luxury offers services and products for the following, Bluetooth Hands Free Mobile Communications, Satellite Radio Installation, Apple Ipod Music Player Installation, K40 Radar Diffuser/Detector...and much more. http://www.NewportLuxuryAudio.com |
 |
Ferrari Chat’s oldest running sponsor Nick's Forza Ferrari is the place to go for Ferrari performance parts and modifications. We are distributors of Capristo Exhaust Systems* Value added Electromotive Engine Controls dealer* Power Chip development partner and official reseller* authorized reseller for ANSA Exhaust, CSC Exhaust & Millie Miglia Exhaust Systems* Wheels by Ronal, Compomotive & HRE* Brake products by Brembo, Tarox* Evans Coolant, K&N, Energy Suspension and custom double adjustable suspension packages for Ferrari’s 308* early 328 cars & the much talked about 400 + HP 4.1 Liter Engine Development Project. For the 308/328 & Mondial series cars*. Please check Nick's website at http://www.nicksforzaferrari.com. |
 |
At Norwood Performance we have specialized in Ferrari service for over twenty years and are a recognized leader in performance engine modifications. We feature turbo and fuel injection systems, custom engine rebuilds, machine shop services, a full line of performance engine components and engine building tools as well as full maintenance and services facilities for all Ferrari models. http://www.norwoodperformance.com |
 |
Pole Position USA is an Authorized master distributor of
Motorsports Parts, accessories and racing equipment. We have been
trusted by the following companies Momo, Koni, Brembo to provide enthusiasts
like yourselves with the best parts in the business. Official racing
equipment supplier to the Penske Scottsdale Ferrari Challenge Team. Please feel free to give us a call or email with any questions or inquiries. The brands you trust, priced right with free shipping. http://www.polepositionusa.com |
 |
Ricambi America—your destination for the largest catalogue of Ferrari parts on the internet. At Ricambi America, Ferraris are our passion—we understand how important it is for you to find have the right part for your beloved car. We specialize in "ricambi originali" (Ferrari OEM products). As an authorized reseller of Hyper-Flow and Hill Engineering, we are uniquely qualified to give you the personal attention that your Ferrari craves. Using our online reference catalogue, you are sure to easily locate precisely what you want, from spark plugs to shift gate locks to prepackaged 30K service kits. Let Ricambi America be your destination for attentive service and support whether you race, show, or just drive like Enzo intended! http://www.ricambiamerica.com |
 |
http://www.ronalusa.com/cars/ferrari_testarossa.html |
 |
Ryalex Design offers an original line of beautiful, custom-crafted body kits and accessories for your Ferrari. Our bold and athletic race-inspired designs balance art and application, and are produced in the finest materials. Visit us today and preorder our fascia for the new F430. http://www.ryalexdesign.com |
 |
SimpleTech, Inc. (Nasdaq: STEC) is a global engineering and manufacturing company that offers memory and storage products for a wide range of industrial and consumer applications, including IP networking, consumer electronics, personal computing, and telecommunications. http://www.simpletech.com/estore/ |
 |
Texas Driver Magazine is the automotive lifestyle magazine for enthusiasts who have a passion for what they drive, what they do, where they go and how they do it. Check out our website at http://www.texasdrivermagazine.com |
 |
TRAFFIC TICKETS? Call us for assistance with your suspended license, Reckless driving, DWI, Drag Racing, Speeding, etc. (516) 505-7715 – http://www.ticketproblems.com |
 |
Valence USA specializes in the design, fabrication, and repair of high performance composite products using carbon fiber, Kevlar, and fiberglass. Valence's ever-growing line of Ferrari products includes clear-coated, cosmetic interior components and lightweight, performance-enhancing exterior bodywork. In addition to welcoming custom work, Valence now offers a comprehensive line of components for 360, F355, 348, 328, 575, 550, 456, and soon the F430 and 612. Valence is committed to providing its customers with unsurpassed performance, style, and durability while maintaining the original design aesthetic. Visit us online at http://www.valenceusa.com. |
 |
Verdi has a long established history of working on Ferrari cars. Founded over fifteen years ago, they have consistently maintained and repaired the famous marque. Their staff have accumulated years of mechanical expertise - including factory training - and are backed by their long term commitment to the marque. http://www.verdiferrari.biz/home.htm |
If you would like to inquire about advertising on FerrariChat.com, please fill out the following form.
[ Newsletters | FerrariChat.com ]
