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Miata Story
2026

Jim and Rosemary (Rosie) Thomas have been growing certified organic vegetables in Marshall, Missouri since 2004. The Thomas family has cultivated the farm since 1929. Jim Thomas transitioned the land to only farm organic produce because of his wife Rosie’s autoimmune disorder. Rosie’s condition makes her sensitive to certain chemical products commonly found in fertilizers and pesticides.

AJ Baehr steps down a ladder while helping Reid Fairlamb, not pictured, fix his 1994 Mazda Miata on Friday at Fairlamb’s garage. “This is kind of the retirement space for my dad, so I love caring for it too,” Fairlamb said.
Reid Fairlamb drills a bolt back onto his 1994 Mazda Miata on Friday at his garage. For specialty parts, Fairlamb searches eBay and Facebook marketplace. Fairlamb plans to keep car repairs as a hobby.
Reid Fairlamb reattaches the tie rod end to the wheel of his 1994 Mazda Miata on Friday at his garage. “Including the purchase of the car, I’m in for about $2,200,” Fairlamb said. “So, I got a good deal on it.”
AJ Baehr, left, and Reid Fairlamb work on the 1994 Mazda Miata’s rear sway bar on Friday at Fairlamb’s garage in Columbia. Since July 2025, Fairlamb has worked on the car, making it operable by replacing brakes and the fuel pump, and changing its oil. Fairlamb said painting and body work are all he has left to complete on the car.
Reid Fairlamb works on his 1994 Mazda Miata on Friday at his garage. Since last July, Fairlamb has made several upgrades to the car, and plans to reach out to the old owner once the car is completely repaired.