That's a bummer Bob (that you can't attend and the budget!). I think we are coming back next Tues., but unless the trip up goes horribly wrong, I think we'll come back through SC (Greenville, Columbia, Florence). How far from CMP are you? I'll be there April 17-18 and can possibly get the stuff then either before or after.

 

April 17-18 I will be at the DE at NCCAR.

 

hey is 485 out of southern Charlotte open around to 85?

 

485? it does heading around the south way, but not from the north side yet...not even started between 77 and 85 up north.

 

I'm still trying to figure out which is the best way to go. Even if I came through Char., I would have a lot of time to stop. I'll have the wife and kids (and car in tow) with me, and 7-8 hours is more than enough without extra stops I'd love to look through what you've got, but I'm not sure the time is right. I will need the parts, so a meeting is inevitable. The car is being blasted right now back to bare metal, moving ever so slowly
We'll figure something out

 

according to dealsgap.com daily update
Sunday March 21

Hey Gang

Fantastic day yesterday, 70 degrees and sunny. A few riders were out and about and enjoying both 129 south and NC 28 while the Dragon remains closed at the state line. The skyway is in great shape but with the snow still melting watch for water on the road.

Still no word on the road but we will be back into it bright and early on monday morning.

Today is shaping up to be nice as well but looks like we are in for some rain on monday and possible tuesday, lets hope that knocks the rest of the rock down so they can get things moving.

Thanks for all the calls and emails to our state and federal reps, and yes we are still open and plan on staying that way.

Hope everyone has a great day

 

I won't be able to make it, wife has to go out of town for a med. appt.

 

Sorry to hear Bill, hope all is ok. We'll try and have some enjoyment for you, pass along any good vibes that may come from it

 

THE OFFICIAL SCHEDULE

- Meet at Newfound Gap (NC HWY 441 within the Smokey Mountains Nat. Park) 10 AM

The rest is below and we can really make it up as we go and/or conditions change. IF YOU CAN'T MAKE THE 10AM RENDEZVOUS, MEET US AT THE RESTAURANT (ADDRESS BELOW)

Calhouns in Gatlinburg would be best for lunch. We should all arrive there around 11:30 or so after our meeting at Newfound Gap at 10:00. Calhouns is near traffic light #10 in Gatlinburg (they are numbered) with parking in back off the main road. The actual address is 1004 Parkway. They open at 11:00 a.m. Saturday is looking sunny with a high around 60. The TOTD is closed but may be open by Friday the 26th. If it is not open the Cherohala Skyway is open and we can do that instead. It is further away but plenty of time to complete.

I will be leaving for the area Wednesday and may or may not have internet access where we are staying (wife's friend's cabin, we've never been). If not, please direct all inquires to Dave (95 NC 993) and he can assist. He has my cell number and should be able to get in touch with me.

Hope to see a large crowd!

 

Chris,

I was trying to make it but my cab is still taken apart to fix the most famous convertible top controller, and we are also having an apointment to do our income tax. The taxes could be postponed but I'm still waiting for the controller to return!

Maybe another time! Hope everyone has a fun and safe trip!

Andre'

 

I'm gonna try to make it. Haven't consulted with management - errr... wife yet, so we'll see.

JC

 

Still plenty of time! Just put the top up and down manually!!! Supposed to be a beautiful Saturday.

 

Yes, Saturday weather still looking good. 77 degrees here today. Just crazy 'up and down' weather, a typical March. I did take the opportunity to wash the cab top today and let it dry real nice in the sun. I doubt I have done that since last October but I also haven't even put 500 miles on the car since last October either. That's about to change.

 

Looks like the TOTD will be closed for much of the summer if I am reading the update correctly. It isn't just a matter of clearing the debris but securing the weak area where the rock slide occurred. This is the main reason I-40 has been closed all these months. Fortunately the roads are endless in this area and the Cherohala Skyway is open and clear and should be a nice run with very little traffic this time of year. Looks like we can keep the same schedule and just head there instead. Please post your plans here if any changes and I can update Chris by phone if he doesn't have internet access at his place in TN.

 

Alas, I'm overbooked that day, lads. Have fun and take tons of pics!!!!