Checkered Blog by Checkered Flag is the automotive play place in Hampton Roads Virginia

Meet Checkered Flag Customer Valerie Duus-Jamison

Valerie loves her Laser Blue 2009 MINI Cooper Sport! That's the very first thing she said when she walked into the Checkered Flag MINI showroom. This very friendly MINI enthusiast has been a resident of Virginia Beach for 15 years and works at Kemps Landing Middle School. Thanks for speaking with us, Valerie!

CB: What do you love about your MINI?
Valerie: (Sighs) Absolutely everything! It looks good. It drives well...it's so fun to drive. It's also economical and efficient. I just got back from a trip and we were able to get 500 miles on a just a tank of gas! And some people think that the MINI looks like it wouldn't have a lot of room, but it does. It offers a lot of room.

CB: What are your hobbies?
Valerie: Knitting. Buying yarn (laughs).

CB: What's your favorite restaurant?
Valerie: Bravo's. Everything I've ever had there has been good.

CB: What was the last movie you've seen?
Valerie: I don't really go to the movies much, but the last movie I've seen was the Bucket List, and I really liked it. Good movie.

CB: Do you have any pets?
Valerie: Yes, 3 Maltese dogs and a cat. Their names are Twinkie, Buttons, Lucy, and Ginger.

CB: What's the one invention you couldn't live without?
Valerie: Makeup! No actually, I think soap or toothpaste are better answers (laughs).

CB: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
Valerie: Probably back to England...to where they make the MINIs.

CB: I've heard rave reviews from the Checkered Flag MINI sales team that your cookies are incredible. So tell me what made you think of bringing cookies for them?
Valerie: Well, I'm a really good baker. I just sort of have a knack for baking chewy and soft cookies. My technique is a secret though (laughs). But I decided to bring in cookies because I used to come in and drive them nuts (laughs) by test driving every MINI I could before I bought mine. They were all so great, I thought I'd do something nice to thank them. Chuck (Chuck Akers, Motoring Advisor) said he liked peanut butter cookies, so I brought those.

CB: What do you enjoy about Checkered Flag MINI that keeps you coming back?
Valerie: The customer service. And Chuck! This truly has been the best car buying experience I've ever had. It could not have been any better. They're just great over here, and that's why I keep coming back with cookies! I think they'll be oatmeal raisin next time.

Motor On Over to MINI

It never ceases to amaze me how much fun takes place at Checkered Flag. And this Saturday, October 25th, Checkered Flag MINI is keeping the fun meter running with their MINI Motor-Tober Open House and Test Drive Spectacular.

Susan Drees, brand manager says, "On Saturday we're inviting everyone to come out and join us to celebrate Motor-Tober." The open house will feature several MINIs that are available for test drives and an assortment of yummy refreshments will be served. They'll also have a display for Gran Turismo, the popular driving simulator video game where you can get behind the wheel of a "virtual" MINI.

Oh, and I've got a great tip for all of you early holiday shoppers...they're offering a 15%  discount on Motoring Gear! I took a peak into the Motoring Gear showcase, and a lot of really cool items are available including t-shirts, caps, and bags. It's never to early to start stocking up on gifts.

Also, while I was at Checkered Flag MINI today, I noticed that they currently have a very nice selection of MINIs to choose from. In recent months, the very fuel efficient MINIs have been so popular that they often don't stay on the dealership lot too long. But Susan tells me that they've restocked on vehicles, and on Saturday a 90-days-til-first-payment offer on a new MINI will be available to eligible customers.

Come out to Checkered Flag MINI, 5209 Virginia Beach Boulevard, Virginia Beach and have the MINI driving experience for yourself! Check out the flyer above for details or call (757) 490-1111 and ask to speak with the MINI sales team. Happy Motoring and have a great weekend!

John Cooper Works for MINI and Clubman

These days most cars come with a host of standard features. On the all-new, factory-built MINI John Cooper Works models, a rich racing tradition also comes standard. Inspired by the motoring passion and legacy of John Newton Cooper, the MINI John Cooper Works and MINI John Cooper Works Clubman bring excellent performance and handling, great efficiency, and the fun-to-drive personality that's characteristically MINI.

John Cooper, the son of a mechanic, pioneered the rear-mounted engine, founded the Cooper Car Company, and won three Monte Carlo titles and 16 Grand Prix. 

As soon as I heard the John Cooper Works (JCW) models had arrived, I dropped in at Checkered Flag MINI and spoke with Ryan Allen, a motoring advisor there. He gave me a tour of the JCW Clubman (pictured here) that's on display in the showroom. By the way, Ryan is the newest team member at MINI. Congrats, Ryan!

At the heart of both JCW models, is a tuned 1.6-liter 4-cylinder with twin scroll turbocharger engine that produces 208 hp and 192 lb-ft of torque. Using the equipped overboost function, torque increases to 207 lb-ft.

The direct injection aluminum block engine helps the JCW MINIs manage great fuel efficiency even with all that sports car power. It's rated at 34 miles on the highway, and 26 in the city. The transmission choice offered is six-speed manual.

The genuine race car feel doesn't stop with the powerful engine. Outside, the JCW MINIs receive specially designed 17" challenge-spoke alloy wheels; dual-split sport exhaust tips; and  contrasting roof (pioneered by John Cooper himself to add a unique look on the racetrack; choice of either silver or black) with complementing rear c-pillar trim. You also get signature badging on lower front grille, tailgate, front brake calipers, and door entry sills.

Inside, both models get the red gear shift pattern knob in "race-ready red"(only the JCW MINIs get this). Other standard features include: 6-way adjustable sport seats; stainless steel pedals; start/stop button; 6 speakers with AM/FM & CD; plug and play electronic system; and leatherette upholstery. The LED Waterfall lighting and color-adjustable ambient light also add a cool feel inside.

One the safety side, the JCW MINIs have you protected with: 4-piston aluminum Brembo brakes with large, 12.4-inch, ventilated brake discs; dynamic stability control; dynamic traction control; Electronic Differential Lock Control (this helps prevent the "inside" wheel from slipping during cornering); and smart 6-airbag safety system (two front, two side, two head side-curtains).

If you'd like to find out more, stop by Checkered Flag MINI, 5209 Virginia Beach Boulevard, Virginia Beach or call (757) 490-1111 to speak with someone from the sales team.

Meet Checkered Flag MINI's John Bernhardt!

CB: Thanks for speaking with us, John. What do you do here at Checkered Flag MINI?
John: As a motoring advisor, I discuss with customers which MINI vehicle would best suit their needs, and based on that I help them make an informed decision.

CB: How long have you worked here?
John: About 3 months. I also own a record label. A friend suggested working for Checkered Flag MINI, so here I am.

CB: Which Hampton Roads city or county do you live in?
John: Virginia Beach. I've lived here for years and years. I don't know why (laughs). No, I'm kidding...my friends are here and so is my daughter.

CB: What are your hobbies?
John: MUSIC. Playing the guitar. I listen to pretty much everything. And I go to music shows and concerts.

CB: Where's your favorite place to eat out?
John: Carrabba's Italian Grill. Have you tried their Chicken Marsala?!

CB: What's the last movie you've seen?
John: Uhm...it was a French horror movie, but I can't remember what it's called. I think it's Wreck. But the last movie I saw at the theater was Indiana Jones, and that was a disappointment. Had potential in the beginning, but was a let down at the end.

CB: Do you have any pets?
John: Yes, a dog. Half German Shepherd, half Shiba Inu. Her name's Sandy and she looks like a fox.

CB: What's the one invention you couldn't live without?
John: Definitely a cell phone. Before cell phones meeting up with people was ridiculous. You'd get there and the person you're meeting wouldn't be there, so you'd have to get a hold of them somehow. It's just a lot easier now.

CB: What's the one thing about you that people would be surprised to know?
John: I don't know really...hmm I guess that I own a record label.

CB: What's the best thing about working for Checkered Flag?
John: Well, working for MINI (laughs). Really though, it's a relaxed working environment and the people here are very nice. The customers are great, too. They're so dedicated to the MINI experience, and it's cool to be part of that.

A Rickshaw Model for the MINI Clubman?

For centuries now, the rickshaw has served as a staple of Chinese transportation. To celebrate the release of the MINI Clubman in China, a new version of the traditional two-wheel rickshaw cart was introduced to the streets of Beijing. So you're wondering, what does a rickshaw have to do with a MINI Clubman? Well, this new version dubbed "MINI Clubman: The Other Rickshaw" is a "hybrid" of sorts. From the front it looks like a typical rickshaw. Move towards the back and you're in for a unique addition, a Clubman rear-end!

A fleet of these MINI rickshaws are shuttling locals and tourists alike around the Olympic city. Powered by pure man muscle, the MINI rickshaw is as fuel efficient and emission-free as a vehicle could possibly be. Here's a list of the rickshaw's technical specifications, provided by MotoringFile.com. 

Horsepower: 1 manpower
Torque: Variable
Driveline: Chain. Rear wheel drive!-Brake: Wire operated e-brake
Doors: 3
Seats: 3
Emissions: None
Mileage: Results vary depending on drivers' food consumption

Styling wise, the MINI rickshaw is equipped with a glass sunroof and leather interior. It's also decked out with real Chinese lucky charms and talismen. They're intended to bring luck to passengers and also release positive vibes for the Games. Speaking of which, maybe these rickshaw drivers deserve some Olympic medals too. I'm sure it takes major athleticism to drive one, especially with a couple of tourists in tow! Check out the photos below from Autoblog.

Meet Checkered Flag MINI Customer Alice Schooler!

Alice is a Virginia Beach resident who LOVES her British Racing Green 2006 MINI Cooper. She works as a civilian employee at Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek and has lived in the area for almost 20 years. Thanks for talking with us Alice!

CB: What's the best thing about being a MINI driver?
Alice: I love MINI! I like smaller cars, so it's perfect for me and it handles well.

CB: What are your hobbies?
Alice: Hmm my hobbies...knitting. And I like reading, romance novels.

CB: Where's your favorite place to eat?
Alice: I like the Cheesecake Factory and Olive Garden. The food is good and they give you a good quantity of it. (Laughs) You know they don't just give you a small scoop. It's good portions.

CB: What do you have in your MP3 player or CD player right now?
Alice: I listen to a variety of things. Mostly anything. I really like Madonna.

CB: What's the last movie you've seen?
Alice: Now, that's a question I can't answer. I don't go to the movies. And I couldn't tell you what the last one I saw on T.V. is (laughs). I don't remember.

CB: Do you have any pets?
Alice: Yes, a cat named Rusty.

CB: What's the one thing about you that people would be surprised to know?
Alice: Hmm...I was in the Navy. Not too many people know that I was in the military.

CB: What's the one invention you couldn't live without?
Alice: Oh geez, at my age I don't think I would give up anything (laughs). Probably Cable T.V. or a computer. I just want to keep going forward because technology just makes life easier.

CB: What's the best thing about being a Checkered Flag customer?
Alice: I never have a problem here. The customer service is always great, and the atmosphere is very comfy.

 

Meet Checkered Flag MINI's Nikki Kern

CB: What exactly do you do here as the AdMINIstrative Assistant?
Nikki: I wear many hats here. I am the administrative assistant for the managers. And I also oversee reception.

CB: And how long have you been working here?
Nikki: In November it'll be 3 years. Before here I worked at a bank. I definitely like it here much more.

CB: Which Hampton Roads city do you live in?
Nikki: I live in Norfolk. I've lived in this area for probably 20 years. I was born here but then we moved to New Orleans. We're a military family, so we moved around.

CB:  What are your hobbies?
Nikki: Many things. I like visiting my best friend in New York City. We have girls' nights. I lay on the beach in my backyard, and all the normal housewife things.

CB: How often do you go to NYC?
Nikki: Uhm, probably twice a year. We go to see the ball drop on New Year's, and then we usually go in the summer time too.

CB: Where's your favorite place to eat?
Nikki: Chili's. I love their margaritas and the chips and queso dip. Ruth's Chris is always good too. 

CB: What do you have in you MP3 player or CD player right now?
Nikki: The new Usher. I love him. I can't pick a favorite from his CD. I really like Rhianna too. Take a Bow is probably my favorite song off of her CD.

CB: What's the most recent movie you've seen?
Nikki: Sex and the City. I absolutely loved it! I watched it with my mom and we had a good time.

CB: What pets do you have?
Nikki: I have a cat named Ali. She's a Maine Coon and has beautiful markings.

CB: What's the one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
Nikki: I graduated high school early. Did it in three years. During my senior year I took all A.P. classes so I entered college as a sophomore. I went to Lake Taylor, ODU, and TCC too.

CB: What's the one invention you couldn't live without?
Nikki: Probably the cell phone. I don't want to go back to using quarters for the payphones (laughs).

CB: What's the best thing about working for Checkered Flag?
Nikki: The interaction I get with the people I work with. We're like a family here. Interacting with customers is always really good too. A customer came in with cookies just to say thank you. So that was really sweet, and we're glad that we could help them.

A Mighty Cool View of MINIs

Seeing a convoy of MINIs is always impressive.

Seeing a convoy of MINIs from the air is REALLY impressive.

When a group of MINIs left Virginia Beach last week after stopping for one night as part of the MINI Takes the States rally up the East Coast, they drove in formation across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel.  Photographer Patrick Mclaughlin was hovering in a helicopter and he captured the action from his literally birds-eye view.  Patrick graciously shared some of the photos with the Checkered Blog.  These are actually just a few of the really cool pictures that he got that day.  You may see all of them and purchase them if you wish on the web site where Patrick has a gallery of shots. Thanks, Patrick!

MINI Takes the States Takes Virginia Beach in Style

WOW! Yesterday evening and this morning were a lot of fun. That was when Checkered Flag MINI hosted the Virginia Beach stop of the MINI Takes the States Rally with the Flying Finn. This is a drive by MINI owners up the East Coast, from Miami to Boston, that is taking place this week and is one of several rallies across the country. This one is named Flying Finn in honor of Rauno Aaltonen, the Finnish-born rally champion who is participating in the East Coast event.

Checkered Flag MINI held a meet and greet outside of the Virginia Beach Convention Center yesterday evening, where local MINI owners welcomed the rally participants to town. This morning, Checkered Flag had a breakfast send-off for the group at First Landing State Park.

WinsGal and I had the "job" ("fun" is a more accurate word) of helping with the two events. As always, WinsGal did much more work than I did. I spent a lot of time meeting the MINI owners and looking at the cars. A highlight of the meet and greet was a talk by Rauno about rallying in a MINI Cooper S in the 1960s (that is the car he and Bob Holden were driving when they won the Gallaher 500, a premier touring race in New South Wales, Australia in 1966.) Rauno also autographed postcards and he signed the one shown here for the Checkered Blog.

Something else cool that happened last night was that WTKR Channel 3 television stopped by and reporter Ted Alexander interviewed Checkered Flag MINI brand manager Susan Drees, who explained that at 37 miles per gallon, the MINI combines fuel efficiency and flair. I saw Susan on the 11 p.m. news last night and of course, she was great.

This morning was a super time, too. It was a relaxed breakfast amid the wooded beauty of First Landing. As you can see here, the MINIs looked especially lovely in this setting. True to form, the rally participants departed in style. They formed a convoy and headed toward the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel for a photo-op of crossing the bridge. They are en route to Philadelphia now.

Happy motoring to everyone in the rally and thanks for visiting Virginia Beach!

 

MINIs Will be Gathering in Hampton Roads

 

If you see more MINIs than usual on the local roads tomorrow afternoon and Wednesday morning, there is a reason: that is when the Virginia Beach stop of MINI Takes the States 2008 is taking place.

MINIs (and their owners, of course) are heading up the East Coast, from Miami to Boston, in one of several rallies across the country. The East Coast event is named "Rallying with the Flying Finn" in honor of participant Rauno Aaltonen. He is a former rally champion whose many achievements include teaming with Bob Holden to drive a Mini Cooper S to victory in the Gallaher 500, a premier touring race in New South Wales, Australia in 1966.

Aaltonen will sign autographs in parking lot 5 of the Virginia Beach Convention Center, 1000 19^th St., Virginia Beach from 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, June 17, as Checkered Flag MINI welcomes the rally to town.

A warm (or, given the weather lately, should we say "hot") Hampton Roads greeting to everyone involved in MINI Takes the States 2008!