Volunteer for Tour to Tanglewood

[Mr. Magoo]

In keeping with MINI's campaign to do good things in the community, the club has approached the Central NC chapter of the MS Society. On Saturday, September 9th, they will hold their annual Tour to Tanglewood to raise fund to help battle Multiple Sclerosis. They were very happy to have a group of our size to help, and have been assigned the task of Parking and Traffic. In the past parking has been an issue. They are looking for us to direct traffic at both the start and finish that Saturday. They have agreed to recognize the club (i.e. have our cars placed somewhere at the Tour and the finish). Additionally, we will be given lunch provided by Carrabbas and will be able to participate in the festivities once the parking is over. This is a big event and will be covered by local TV and other media, and would be a great chance to publicize the club.

The plan, at this time, is to meet at the start (Greensboro, Volvo Headquarters on I-40) to direct traffic and parking, then leave after the cyclist have departed around 9:00 and drive to Tanglewood (just west of Winston) to coordinate the parking at that end.

This is just a "head's up" to place on your schedule, and I would hope that we can have about 30 people. This is a great cause and has a special meaning to one of our members who is battling MS herself.

This is your chance to get a MINI Motoring Heart

Volunteers & T-shirt size

VOLVO
Steve M + 1 XL & M
Pir8 97 L
Griff L
Midnight Dave L
CooperSKart +1(?) L & (?)
HPUdrew +??? XXL

Tanglewood

Mark V +3 XXL, L, M, S
Jim Halley +1 L + S
Mr. & Mrs. Miniani XL & L
Salemgym L
Sandy Browder ?
BullFrog L

[Pir8 97]

That sounds fun. I'll see if my wife and I have anything scheduled that weekend.

[Mr. Magoo]

Yeah! I think you will like this. After the "race" they usually have a big event in the evening, for the participants/volunteers. If I recall last year it was a big beach music festival.

[Chuffed2Bits]

I am not sure if I will be able to attend this. I told Mark that I would try but that is also the same weekend of the MS 150 Bike Tour down in New Bern and I am not sure if I am doing that again this year. I am not sure how the Central NC Chapter of the MS Society is but if they are like the Eastern NC Chapter (and I am sure they are), then the festivities for the volunteers will be a lot of fun. I have been to several events that were co-sponsored by the Central, Eastern and Mid Atlantic chapters and they were great. Speaking as a person with MS, I can truly say that the Society, as well as those of us living with MS, greatly value the volunteers!

~Lyn

[Mr. Magoo]

Need to start a list of people that are interested in participating in this. I just heard from the coordinator and they are ordering shirts for us and need sizes. Please let me know who and what size shirts. This is not a definate but it will be helpful to get an idea of who can participate so we can begin planning the logistics. I am meeting with the coordinator next week to get more details.

[Pir8 97]

Count me in. Size L :D

[TWISTER]

Me +3
XXL
L
M
S

[Mr. Magoo]

Both of you are counted. List is at the first post in this thread.

[minianni]

OK we're in. Steve D. and Ann D. size L and XL

[Mr. Magoo]

Gotcha!! More ???

[CooperSKart]

This sounds like a definite possibility - I'll check w/ my wife & see what she thinks.

[MidnightDave]

I'm in, need a large T pls, that's the day after my birthday and what a great way to "give back" while doing something I enjoy!

[CooperSKart]

OK - I am definitely in for sure (L T shirt). My wife is still a distinct maybe - we need to see if her parents or mine can watch Ethan (our 3 YO - I'm not sure how he would be directing parking :eek: ) for the day.

[Mr. Magoo]

Got Midnight Dave and CooperSKart. Need more. This is a going to be a great time to have fun, food, music, and drink, at no cost and volunteer for a great cause.

[HPUdrew]

Count me in on this one. I need an XXL shirt. I'll see if one of my sisters or anyone else wants to ride along and help out too. If anyone else comes I'll let you know what size shirt asap.

Drew

[Mr. Magoo]

Got you counted, Drew. Yes, invite sisters, friend, even bosses. This is going to be a very worthwhile volunteer effort... and a lot of fun. A festival for free!!!

[Mr. Magoo]

Met with the coordinator yesterday, and they are really organized. Additionally, this is going to be a great day and lots of fun. Free t-shirts, music (bluegrass and hits), free food (Carrabba and Elizabeth Pizza), free drink (Coke and beer), and more. I'll have more info later in August. Basically, we need 8-10 people at each of the two locations. One in Volvo in Greensboro, and one at Tangelwood in Clemmons.

They expect about 1500 riders and our help is going to be greatly needed. There will be a motorcycle club and a Corvette club there also (doing other work), so we need a good presence.

The only down side is the beginning time. 5:30 for Greensboro, and 6:30 for Tanglewood. Don't let that discourage you, for such a really worthy cause. One of our members is stricken with this disease, so it is even more relative.

BTW, my wife has agreed to be there by 5:30.

[Pir8 97]

I posted a thread on motoring|underground... maybe it'll attract a couple other people.

[Mr. Magoo]

I posted a thread on motoring|underground... maybe it'll attract a couple other people.

Thats great, thanks. Since you have a long way to come, I you want to come on Friday night, I would be glad to have you spend the night at my house.

[Pir8 97]

Hey that sounds good. Thanks for the offer :) I wasn't crazy about the idea of getting up at 2:00 am on a Saturday.

[Mr. Magoo]

Hey that sounds good. Thanks for the offer :) I wasn't crazy about the idea of getting up at 2:00 am on a Saturday.
OK, your room is reserved.

[simplygriff]

I posted a thread on motoring|underground... maybe it'll attract a couple other people.
:D
I won't be able to make this guys. I'm gonna have to work cause it will be our busiest weekend of the month. :( Sorry and do some good out there! :)
-G

[TWISTER]

Mr and Mrs minianni volunteer for the 6:30 Tanglewood!

[MidnightDave]

I'll go wherever, whenever and do whatever, just let me know...thanks!

[Mr. Magoo]

I'll go wherever, whenever and do whatever, just let me know...thanks!
I can use you at Volvo, then we will go to Tanglewood about 10 for the party. More info to follow.

[HPUdrew]

I'll see you at VOLVO at 5:30, and I am still trying to find someone to come with me and help out, so I will let you know if anyone comes through for me as soon as I know. :)

Drew

[Mr. Magoo]

I'll see you at VOLVO at 5:30, and I am still trying to find someone to come with me and help out, so I will let you know if anyone comes through for me as soon as I know. :)

Drew

Great we can use as many as you find. Right now we have about 4 for Volvo. Will need twice that at a minimum.

[CooperSKart]

We can be there for the Volvo event - Bright tailed & bushy eyed ;)

[Bullfrog]

Steve -

I spoke to Mark last night, and I'm planning on being at the Harris Teeter outside of Tanglewood at 6am, barring something exploding at work.

See ya.

[Mr. Magoo]

Steve -

I spoke to Mark last night, and I'm planning on being at the Harris Teeter outside of Tanglewood at 6am, barring something exploding at work.

See ya.

That is great. BTW, I went to the auto-cross today in Greensboro, and was hoping to see you there. You weren't but there were several l MINI's there. In fact there was a yelllow/white Cooper team (husband and wife) that were taking several S's to the cleaners.

So much for "justacooper".

Let me know your plans for MTTS. I have a room reserved for Thursday night and need to know your plans.

[Mr. Magoo]

Just talked with the coordinator for the Tour. They have 1350 cyclist registed to date, and more a coming in each day. They expect over 1500 cyclist and are really glad to see that we are going to help with the parking. In the past parking has really been a "pain" and a problem.

I know that currently we have about half of what we need at each location, but I told him that I was sure the club would step up and staff each location.

More update to come.

[simplygriff]

Since it's early enough for me to do that then go to work, I'll be at Volvo...
-G

[Pir8 97]

Since it's early enough for me to do that then go to work, I'll be at Volvo...
-G
That's ma boy!!

[minianni]

Since it's early enough for me to do that then go to work, I'll be at Volvo...
-G

Ha, you never should have told me what time you went to work :p Then you would not have been"guilted" into coming :D
Seriously tho' glad you can make it. Sorry you can't be there for the whole day and get free food.( Rememeber Susan, Those are my two favorite 4 letter words that begin with "f").

Steve

P.S. Things worked out, we're MUCH closer to getting the house!!!!

[HPUdrew]

Griff, glad to hear you'll be joining us waaaaaay early in the AM at Volvo. Will it be just you or are you both planning on coming?

Steve, glad to hear the news on the house, I hope it keeps going your way!

Drew

[Mr. Magoo]

Ha, you never should have told me what time you went to work :p Then you would not have been"guilted" into coming :D
Seriously tho' glad you can make it. Sorry you can't be there for the whole day and get free food.( Rememeber Susan, Those are my two favorite 4 letter words that begin with "f").

Steve

P.S. Things worked out, we're MUCH closer to getting the house!!!!

Free food, drink, music and bands go into the evening. You can always go to the "dark side" (work) and come back.

[simplygriff]

Ha, you never should have told me what time you went to work :p Then you would not have been"guilted" into coming :D
Seriously tho' glad you can make it. Sorry you can't be there for the whole day and get free food.( Rememeber Susan, Those are my two favorite 4 letter words that begin with "f").

Steve

P.S. Things worked out, we're MUCH closer to getting the house!!!!

Glad to hear your getting close Steve. That's great!

Susan won't be there. Just little ole me.

And that's very true Magoo, but there's so many other things going on that weekend too... NC Tattoo convention, Violent Femmes concert, Axe murderer's coming to visit... I'll need to get a map of where to go and all those details but I'm sure you're still working on that part. :D
-G

[Pir8 97]

Glad to hear your getting close Steve. That's great!

Susan won't be there. Just little ole me.

And that's very true Magoo, but there's so many other things going on that weekend too... NC Tattoo convention, Violent Femmes concert, Axe murderer's coming to visit... I'll need to get a map of where to go and all those details but I'm sure you're still working on that part. :D
-G

--> me = tag-along :D

[simplygriff]

Pir8 97 = axe murderer. :p
-G

[Pir8 97]

Pir8 97 = axe murderer. :p
-G
Shhhh... don't tell Steve! I wasn't going to say anything about that :D

[simplygriff]

He was the one that brought it up to me... he's been checking up on you apparently. HAHAHA :D:D
-G

[Mr. Magoo]

He was the one that brought it up to me... he's been checking up on you apparently. HAHAHA :D:D
-G
It's my wife, she thinks everyone I invite to spend the night at the house is a "mass murderer". When you meet her, just growl.

[Mr. Magoo]

Glad to hear your getting close Steve. That's great!

Susan won't be there. Just little ole me.

And that's very true Magoo, but there's so many other things going on that weekend too... NC Tattoo convention, Violent Femmes concert, Axe murderer's coming to visit... I'll need to get a map of where to go and all those details but I'm sure you're still working on that part. :D
-G
I gave a map with directions to Mark. He is going to jpeg that and put it on an email.

[simplygriff]

I gave a map with directions to Mark. He is going to jpeg that and put it on an email.

Cool. I'll keep an eye out for it!
-G

[minianni]

Thanks all for the encouragement. Started the ball rolling today..Closing 9/15/06..move the following weekend. Keep your calenders clear :D

Steve

[Mr. Magoo]

Your on my calendar. Remember "Beer moves everything"!!

[simplygriff]

Thanks all for the encouragement. Started the ball rolling today..Closing 9/15/06..move the following weekend. Keep your calenders clear :D

Steve

I'll check the calendar and let you know. I know we can pack a fair amount of stuff in the Mini... ;)
-G

[Pir8 97]

G, tell Susan all my good axes will be in the shop getting sharpened that weekend :D

[Pir8 97]

Miniannis - I am so happy to hear everything is working out with the house!! BTW, I am a great packer!! (Can't help with heavy lifting because of my back.)


Pir8 - I'm not worried. I have 4 cats and 2 dogs that can smother you to death in your sleep. Not to mention 2 rats that will nibble your toes off! ;)


-Susan (Yes, I finally registered!)
Sweet! I'll feel right at home :D BTW, you guys are great for making the offer :)

[simplygriff]

Even if you are a pirate... :rolleyes: :p
-G

[Chuffed2Bits]

I finally have an answer guys.....I am not going to be able to make it. I am part of a new program with the MS Society called Champions Against MS that pairs people with MS with people that are participating in events such as the MS Walk or the Bike Tours. Each party is considered a champion. I was paired up with a cyclist that will be riding in the MS 150 down in New Bern. I was given a red bandana to sign for her to wear during the event....so keep an eye out for the cyclists wearing those. Anyway, my participant is part of a team called the Selma Cyclepaths :D and I went to their team cookout this past weekend. It is my intention to be down in New Bern that same weekend as the Tour to Tanglewood to cheer on my Champion and the Selma Cyclepaths in the MS 150 in New Bern......I hope you guys can understand. But again, as a person with MS, I really appreciate you guys stepping up to the plate for this and I know you guys will enjoy it.....the Society events are always so well put together! Have fun!!!


~Lyn

[Chuffed2Bits]

I just realized that my post from last night did not make that much sense. I was really too busy talking about the Selma Cyclepaths & the MS 150 in New Bern.....the MS 150 takes place over the course of Saturday & Sunday, so they will be crossing the finish line on Sunday but I will also be going down to New Bern on Saturday to help with festivities at that bike tour being that it is being sponsored by the Eastern NC MS Chapter, which is my local chapter. Does all of this make sense or am I making a bigger mess out of this the more I try to explain? *sigh* But I am telling you, those of you who go, you are going to have a great time.....you might even find yourself volunteering for the MS Walk too! :)


~Lyn

[Mr. Magoo]

Lyn,

Thanks for remembering us. We fully understand why you won't be there, but will miss you. Currently we have about half to 3/4 the number of people we need but I'm confident that the rest will step up to the plate as time gets closer.

[Chuffed2Bits]

I know you guys will have a good time and maybe the club might do it every year. I don't know why both bike tours where scheduled on the same weekend....the Cyclepaths told me that a lot of cyclists like to do both tours! Maybe if the club finds it an enjoyable experience and the club participates again next year and there is not a date conflict....then I will join y'all. But seriously guys, I just can't thank y'all enough from the bottom of MY heart!

~Lyn

[MidnightDave]

Lyn, I'll have my in-laws in town, and I'll leave the house at 4am, (Charlotte), work the parking, then drive right back, and it'll all be worth it.

These guys speak so highly of you, and I am familiar with MS, and as I'm too old and my knees too weak to ride any more MS150s, this is a great way to contribute.

I for one, will push that we make this an annual club event, and I'm sure more people will "step up the plate", like Griff, who's going to come out and help before he goes to work all day...

[Chuffed2Bits]

Thanks Dave! I just want you guys to know that *I* personally appreciate y'all doing this and I know that the MS Society does too! Y'all really are awesome for doing this and truth be told, when I read the original post that the club was going to volunteer for this, I cried! This is just such a great group of people!

~Lyn

[Chuffed2Bits]

Will y'all please post and tell me/everyone how this went when all is said and done? I got my assignment for the MS 150 in New Bern...I will be working the Hope Tent. I am an ambassador for the Champions program, so I will be there to sign those red bandanas that you will be seeing the cyclists wear or tied to their bikes. You guys will be in my thoughts that day! I really am so excited that the club is doing this! I really wish I could be there!! But my obligation to my local MS chapter comes first. But really guys, it is one big party and your hard work will not only be appreciated but it will be rewarded. Remember that I will be with y'all in spirit!


~Lyn

[Minime]

Count me in for Tanglewood plus one? 1 L and 1 S.

Let me know where we will meet at Tangelwood and at what time?

[Mr. Magoo]

Thanks Jim, I have you listed on the first post of this thread. I know there are others out there that would like to help. Please let me know. Just talked with the Event Coordinator at MS and he informs me this is going to be the largest event since the inception. He is extremely pleased that our club has volunteered and wishes more clubs in the area would step up as have we.

I know that this starts early in the morning, but we have people coming from as far away as Greenville, NC and Charlotte. If you can help in the morning you can rest later and return to the festivities in the afternoon and early evening.

If I can get my wife there at 5:30 and Mark can get teenagers there at 6:30, we can surely get some more people.

BTW. not to confirm, but we are trying to get MINI Motoring Hearts for all MINI drivers that help. If you have not seen these, they are very nice pewter badges that can stick on the car or placed on the rear tray. Very nice, not a cheap piece of plastic.

Let me know who else is available and what size T-shirts you need.

We will have maps and details after we come back from leg 12 of the MTTS.

[TWISTER]

me know where we will meet at Tangelwood and at what time?
There is a harris Teeter outside Tanglewood and we plan on meeting there around 6AM

[simplygriff]

I'm planning on being there Magoo. I need a Large T-Shirt. :cool:
-G

[Mr. Magoo]

Thanks I have you down. Appreciate your help. Check out the details on the first post of this thread.

[Mr. Magoo]

For all those that have already volunteered, and those that are going to (hopefully), please refer to the first post of this thread. It give the details and locations of the stations that we are manning/womannning (is that a word? just wanted to be PC).

Any questions let me know.

[Bullfrog]

Steve -
Just wanted to make sure you had me down for Tanglewood. Harris-Teeter at 6am. Got it.

[Mr. Magoo]

Steve -
Just wanted to make sure you had me down for Tanglewood. Harris-Teeter at 6am. Got it.
Shirt size?

[Bullfrog]

Large I guess.

[Mr. Magoo]

Those that have the FRS radios, please bring them to the Tour this Saturday. We will use them to communicate between us at the various parking locations at each Volvo and Tanglewood.

Still would like to have a couple more at each location. Any more volunteers?

[Pir8 97]

Those that have the FRS radios, please bring them to the Tour this Saturday. We will use them to communicate between us at the various parking locations at each Volvo and Tanglewood.

Still would like to have a couple more at each location. Any more volunteers?

I have two radios... I put them in the car just now so I'll be sure to have them.

[HPUdrew]

I haven't had any luck rounding anyone up so far, so expect just me at Volvo this Saturday. Something about 5:30am on Saturdays seems to run people off... slackers!

I don't have a radio, so I'll need to borrow one, that or learn sign language and baseball like hand signals...

Drew

[TWISTER]

I'll have 3 to loan out, poss more

[simplygriff]

I have a pair of radios so someone can borrow one of mine.
-G

[MidnightDave]

Hey, I've been looking for an excuse to get a set of radios! Please give me brand/spec suggestions of some sort and I'll pick up a couple before then?

Thanks!

[Mr. Magoo]

Just talked with Twister last night and MINI USA has again stepped up!! They are sending 20 of the pewter Motoring Hearts for those participating at the Tour. These are not some cheap tin piece. These are very high quality. So first, we help out a very great cause, and second get free T-shirts, food and drink, but also get a very nice gift from MINI that will set you aside from other MINI drivers.

I could use a couple more people at Volvo.

[Mr. Magoo]

Not to name names, but just learned that we will have a young volunteer (pre-teen) helping with traffic at Tanglewood. Thanks, Haley. Too bad your older sister needs her beauty sleep and can't make it.

I guess she has no interest in driving my car any more!!! :) :)

[Pir8 97]

That's cool that we get Motoring Hearts :) Bonus!

I'm still trying to get my wife to come. I think she's weakening.

[TWISTER]

Badges will most likely be mailed to you. Flow is to get them next week

[Mr. Magoo]

That's cool that we get Motoring Hearts :) Bonus!

I'm still trying to get my wife to come. I think she's weakening.

Bring her on. Plenty of room.

[twstrgrl]

Not to name names, but just learned that we will have a young volunteer (pre-teen) helping with traffic at Tanglewood. Thanks, Haley. Too bad your older sister needs her beauty sleep and can't make it.

I guess she has no interest in driving my car any more!!! :) :)

hahaha sorry mater, i'm just not big on waking up before 8am on saturdays. i'll keep thinking about it though.

[TWISTER]

I'm just not big on waking up before 8am on saturdays.
Make that 11:30 am on any day she has off. I should know, she lives here.

[HPUdrew]

I'm not a fan of waking up before 10 on Saturdays, but some things are worth it. ;)

Drew

[minianni]

Heck I start everyday at 5am. Too many years of early rising I guess.

mr.minianni

[Mr. Magoo]

hahaha sorry mater, i'm just not big on waking up before 8am on saturdays. i'll keep thinking about it though.

You have to do more than just think!! You know if you are not there, I am going to give you a hard time. "I take no prisoners".

[simplygriff]

Hey magoo...
You and Pir8 wanna caravan over to Volvo on Sat. or do you have to be there earlier than the rest of us? McD's on Westridge again?
-G

[Pir8 97]

Hey magoo...
You and Pir8 wanna caravan over to Volvo on Sat. or do you have to be there earlier than the rest of us? McD's on Westridge again?
-G

I'm down with that

[simplygriff]

Werd! :p

Oh and what time are we supposed to be there cause it doesn't say in the first post.
-G

[HPUdrew]

I think we're supposed to be there at 5:30, but maybe it's a few minutes before that.

By the way, Magoo, your license plate is in the new issue of MC2! :)

Drew

[Mr. Magoo]

Hey magoo...
You and Pir8 wanna caravan over to Volvo on Sat. or do you have to be there earlier than the rest of us? McD's on Westridge again?
-G
Works for me. How about Krispy Kreme on Battleground? That should be a straighter shot out Wendover to I-40. What time to meet to be at Volvo by 5:30? I think they are going to have some sort of breakfast at Volvo, but don't know for sure.

[Mr. Magoo]

I think we're supposed to be there at 5:30, but maybe it's a few minutes before that.

By the way, Magoo, your license plate is in the new issue of MC2! :)

Drew

Yeah! I know. Remind me on Saturday, I have something for you.

[simplygriff]

Works for me. How about Krispy Kreme on Battleground? That should be a straighter shot out Wendover to I-40. What time to meet to be at Volvo by 5:30? I think they are going to have some sort of breakfast at Volvo, but don't know for sure.

Works for me. I'd say we need to meet at 5 to be on the safe side. Damn that's early... :rolleyes:
-G

[Mr. Magoo]

Works for me. I'd say we need to meet at 5 to be on the safe side. Damn that's early... :rolleyes:
-G
I'd rather think about that as "late Friday night".

[simplygriff]

Yeah it might be... I just found out the Tremors (local rockabilly band) are playing at the NC Tattoo show (Downtown GSO) Friday night and that doesn't start til 9. Geez. Everything is going on this weekend. :eek:
-G

[Pir8 97]

Steve, my wife caved in tonight and she's coming with me. Sorry for the late notice.

[MidnightDave]

I picked up a set of Cobra radios, what channel will you guys be on?

I'll meet you guys at Volvo, tomorrow's my b-day, so we're going out tomorrow night and the extra half an hour of sleep will help.

Looking forward to this...get to see you guys and the cars again, play with the new radio, and do something worthwhile!

[Mr. Magoo]

Steve, my wife caved in tonight and she's coming with me. Sorry for the late notice.

Great !!! Will look forward to meeting you both.

[Mr. Magoo]

I picked up a set of Cobra radios, what channel will you guys be on?

I'll meet you guys at Volvo, tomorrow's my b-day, so we're going out tomorrow night and the extra half an hour of sleep will help.

Looking forward to this...get to see you guys and the cars again, play with the new radio, and do something worthwhile!

The MINI channel is 7-21. That is channel 7 with a sub-channel of 21.

[Mr. Magoo]

Those volunteers for Tanglewood will not have to meet at the grocery store until 7:00. That is a one-hour push back from the original plan.

Volvo people are on as scheduled.

[simplygriff]

...
Volvo people are on as scheduled.

Crap... HAHAHA!!! :D
-G

[CooperSKart]

Ditto!!!!!!!!

[Mr. Magoo]

I agree!! For some reason I woke up at 4:30 this morning. I don't know if it was a dress rehersal for tomorrow or what, but at least I know I can do it.

But just remember this is for a good cause and you are getting the Motoring Hearts (confirmed by Mark).

[simplygriff]

Gack! 2 days in a row... Geez Magoo... I normally wake up around 4:30 for a brief second look at the clock and go right back to bed. Guess tomorrow I'll have to actually get up. Actually a little earlier I think. I've been kinda in slowmo in the mornings this week..

Just to confirm... 5am Krispy Kreme on Battleground correct!?
-G

[HPUdrew]

I'm only about 4-5 miles from VOLVO so I won't be coming to the K/K in the morning. I'll take my coffee large with lots of cream and sugar. ;) Just kidding, I'll have my own coffee tomorrow, I know how crappy our cupholders are! :p

See you guys around 5:30!!! I might have to wake up earlier so that I can get a few minutes of "spirited" driving in to wake me up before I get to VOLVO. :D

Drew

[simplygriff]

Careful. I'm sure it'll still be dark out. :p
-G

[Mr. Magoo]

Gack! 2 days in a row... Geez Magoo... I normally wake up around 4:30 for a brief second look at the clock and go right back to bed. Guess tomorrow I'll have to actually get up. Actually a little earlier I think. I've been kinda in slowmo in the mornings this week..

Just to confirm... 5am Krispy Kreme on Battleground correct!?
-G
Yes, both myself and the "axe murder", also both wives

[simplygriff]

Is there a rain plan?

I know it's not supposed to but it wasn't supposed to today either... :rolleyes:
-G

Rain or shine. Of course you can't see the shine at that time of the morning.

[Pir8 97]

Yes, both myself and the "axe murder", also both wives
:p

I'll be the sleepy one :)

[HPUdrew]

Yay, I got my first "purchased" mods in today! :D Aero Grille and Reverse Light from MyMini. Now lets just see if I can get anything done before tomorrow... I know I won't be rushing the lower grille! :eek:

Drew

[Mr. Magoo]

Wow!! an extra hour!! See if Twister Girl can make it out of bed!!! :D

[minianni]

Dang, 7:00am? It's just like a regular work day for me. Even on the same side of town. Piece of cake!

mr.minianni

[MidnightDave]

Hmmm...so I need to be up in 5 hours and 43 minutes and I still have to figure out how to get to channel 7-21? :confused: Have to do the unthinkable and read the directions! (Sorry men, I'm going to have to break one of our cardinal rules!)

Also, took my cup holder out, 'cause it sucked...bad. (Pardon the French) so I'll be chugging a 2 liter Mt Dew as I drive enthusiastically up I-85 and across 40, so by the time you guys see me, I should be good and wired! :eek:

Looking forward to seeing everybody...

[HPUdrew]

I'm not really sure why I am still up... Crazy girl gotta keep me out late. :cool: So yeah, see you guys in 5 hours, lol.

Drew

[MidnightDave]

Thanks to all--What a great time/cause/turnout!

(My bro-in-law is delayed 2 hrs so I'll post these quick before I get him and the electrical games begin...I won't be back on here till Tue night)

We all got up and were already at work at o'dark thirty
http://img420.imageshack.us/img420/2619/1181847imgys8.jpg

The club was represented with parking front and center, others will have better pics, and we had even better placement at Tanglewood!
http://img506.imageshack.us/img506/6094/1181854imgjz7.jpg

Drew hit it off with the Red Bull "hotties" so they came with us...doo doo doo dah doo, I'm lovin' it...that's right, we went to McDonald's for breakfast, what were you thinking I meant? :rolleyes:
http://img420.imageshack.us/img420/91/1181853imgyj0.jpg

[HPUdrew]

LOL I didn't hit it off with the Red Bull ladies, though one of them made her way into a bunch of my pictures somehow. :p

I had a good time guys. As long as they listen when we give them some ideas for next year, I'd be glad to help out again!

Drew

http://www.northamericanmotoring.com/gallery/data/500/volvo1.jpg
http://www.northamericanmotoring.com/gallery/data/500/volvo2.jpg
http://www.northamericanmotoring.com/gallery/data/500/volvo3.jpg

[HPUdrew]

http://www.northamericanmotoring.com/gallery/data/500/volvo4.jpg
http://www.northamericanmotoring.com/gallery/data/500/volvo5.jpg
http://www.northamericanmotoring.com/gallery/data/500/volvo6.jpg

Somehow I forgot to take pics once we got to Tanglewood... hopefully someone has a few good ones of the group there!

Drew

[Pir8 97]

Nice shots guys! I'll try to process mine tomorrow.... Hey! What's that bike doing next to my car :p

BTW, Magoo, his wife, Griff, & Nullipara are still alive ;)

[Pir8 97]

I forgot to mention that Red Bull MINI has issues... it's a 30 footer. A little wax every now and then would be a good idea :p

[Chuffed2Bits]

But did you guys have fun at the bike tour festivities? I sent Mark an e-mail and told him that y'all were in my thoughts yesterday as I too was up at the butt crack of dawn to get my happy butt down to New Bern on time for my volunteer duties down at the MS 150 Bike Tour in New Bern. I stayed for their festivities and I did not roll back into Clayton until 10:30 last night so I was one tired puppy having been up since about 4:30am. But I did wear my club shirt down there....so y'all really WERE in my thoughts (I even sent Mark a picture of my champion and I after she crossed the finish line having ridden 75 miles)! And once again, from the bottom of MY heart and on a personal level, I want to thank you all for doing what y'all did yesterday.

~Lyn

[Pir8 97]

I had fun. Red Ryder worked his butt off! He met with Griff and me at Krispy Kreme at 5:00 am to caravan over to Volvo. After we finished at Volvo we drove to Tanglewood and continued to park cars. We had some issues because the traffic and the riders were coming in at the same time on the same road.

The Carabas food was good and the party was huge... I heard there were 1500 riders there.

My wife and I left at 3:00 and Magoo had just taken his first break since getting to Tanglewood! I don't know when he got out of there.

Thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Magoo for giving us a place to stay Friday night. And thanks to Griff and Nullipara for hanging with us and giving us a place to stay last night. We had a blast!

[Chuffed2Bits]

They had about 1500 cyclists down in New Bern too. The food they had down there was catered in (it was held at the New Bern Convention Center) and it was actually kind of funny because they had some kind of pineapple salsa and everyone that was sitting at my banquet table thought it was cole slaw (it kind of looked like pureed slaw) and we all agreed that it was the nastiest slaw we had ever had! We didn't realize that it was pineapple salsa and we were supposed to eat it with the tortilla chips! DUH! LOL But the funniest thing I think I have ever seen though is just how crazy those cyclists got once they got a few beers in them....I guess it doesn't take much after you have been sweating your ass off cycling for 75 miles! But hey, I am thrilled that you had a good time!

~Lyn

P.S. I asked our chapter president why both chapters scheduled their bike tours on the same weekends and apparently this year there were too many scheduling conflicts to work it out to not be on the same weekend. Oh well. Maybe next year.

[Mr. Magoo]

Thanks to everyone that helped. This was truely a team effort and things were very organized. I particulaly want to thank Mark for organizing Tanglewood. He did not have much direction, but when the Volvo people got there he had everything organized. I had several comments from people indicating that the parking and traffic went so much better than last year. Having said that, we certainly observed several area that could be improved.

Yeah, Saturday was a long day for me. I got up at 4:15 and got home about the same time. Then we decided that we should go downtown and did not hit the bed until around 10:30. Made for a long day. But, I know there were many people that outlasted me.

Thanks again, and I promised next year will be much more organized. I will talk with the people at MS to discuss ideas.

Steve

[Mr. Magoo]

10. Parking directors are expected to know everything. (Even if someone's son has finished the ride.)

9. Corvettes do not like to park in the grass field with other cars.

8. Three wheeled Honda drivers can't drive.

7. Massage therapist are good looking!!

6. Red Bull girls must not drink their liquid, as they don't have much energy.

5. It is possible to roller blade from Volvo, but I'm not going to .

4. Axe murders can be really nice people.

3. At 5:30 in the morning there are a lot of cyclist. And at least half of them look good in bike shorts (not the guys!!).

2. Contrary to popular belief, Krispy Kreme is not open at 5:00.

1. Tar Heel MINI Motoring Club members can really like to play with cars. (Parking them, directing them, driving them, etc.)

[Pir8 97]

Well said :)

Those vettes wouldn't have scraped if they had paid attention to me and drove over at the place I showed them. I actually took the flag and touched the perfect spot for them to drive over and said "right here!" Nice smooth transition from pavement to dirt... no, lets drive over the broken pavement in to the hole :p

[simplygriff]

Even at the butt-crack of dawn this is a fun bunch. I had a good time sending cars your way that morning. I still need to figure out where Pegg road goes. :eek: Sorry I missed the bigger rally of Mini's but duty called... :rolleyes:

Pir8, glad you guys could come stay with us. We had a great time too and enjoyed the Femme's show with ya! :cool:

Wonder if that lady is still doing laps around Volvo...? :D
-G

[Mr. Magoo]

I agree with Griff, "this was fun" and definately worth doing again. Next year I would like to have two or more shifts at Tanglewood. For those that can't do early shift, they can come around 11 and work till about 2:30-3:00. I think this could be the replacement to picking up diapers on the side of the road.

[Pir8 97]

I agree with Griff, "this was fun" and definately worth doing again. Next year I would like to have two or more shifts at Tanglewood. For those that can't do early shift, they can come around 11 and work till about 2:30-3:00. I think this could be the replacement to picking up diapers on the side of the road.

Brilliant! Yeah, somehow the 5:30 crew ended up taking over for the 7:00 crew at Tanglewood :confused:

Here are some of my pics.

http://www.emeraldcityminis.com/images/pir897/06tanglewood01.jpg

http://www.emeraldcityminis.com/images/pir897/06tanglewood02.jpg

http://www.emeraldcityminis.com/images/pir897/06tanglewood03.jpg

[Pir8 97]

http://www.emeraldcityminis.com/images/pir897/06tanglewood04.jpg

http://www.emeraldcityminis.com/images/pir897/06tanglewood05.jpg

[Minime]

This was my first time helping out at Tanglewood. Overall I think things went well. Some folks took some convincing that they couldn't drive their car down to the finish line and some pedestrians were oblivious to the approaching riders as they walked down the middle of the road forcing the riders to dodge them at high speed. Luckily no one got hurt.
As a bike rider, I can appreciate the cheering section at the finish line after a long hot ride.
I think for next year a volunteer needs to be placed down near the finish line to direct the riders where to turn. There weren't any signs directing the riders where to go and if they made the wrong choice they'd end up on the road leaving the park. Quite a few riders thanked me for our support directing traffic.

Carrabas had good food for lunch. The chicken, bread and beer were especially good.

[Mr. Magoo]

This was my first time helping out at Tanglewood. Overall I think things went well. Some folks took some convincing that they couldn't drive their car down to the finish line and some pedestrians were oblivious to the approaching riders as they walked down the middle of the road forcing the riders to dodge them at high speed. Luckily no one got hurt.
As a bike rider, I can appreciate the cheering section at the finish line after a long hot ride.
I think for next year a volunteer needs to be placed down near the finish line to direct the riders where to turn. There weren't any signs directing the riders where to go and if they made the wrong choice they'd end up on the road leaving the park. Quite a few riders thanked me for our support directing traffic.

Carrabas had good food for lunch. The chicken, bread and beer were especially good.

Jim,

I can't agree with you more. It was amazing the number of cyclists that thanked us for directing traffic. In turn we tried to thank each and everyone for doing the ride.

The biggest problem, was the road leading into the campground. It was very dangerous with cars going each way as well as the cyclist. That is one of the reasons that I stayed at the parking area. We needed to direct the cars to the grass area and the cyclist, straight ahead. I am going to talk with the coordinator and share our comments with him.

Thanks for the help.

[CooperSKart]

Hey all!

The riders did seem to be thankful for a bit of encouragement at the end - I did a 50 mile charity ride once (on a mountain bike in the MS150 - didn't make it all the way 'cause of bad knees) & I can appreciate what some encouragement can do. I hope my wife didn't offend anyone - she got a very up close & personal view of the bikes dodging the cars & vice versa on that last stretch & was pretty worried about the safety of the riders. Red Ryder - sorry we had to leave ya'll at the end, but we had to pick up Ethan & head back to Raleighwood that night. I totally agree about the food - the Carrabbas was awesome!

[Pir8 97]

I didn't see any reason to get offended :)

[Mr. Magoo]

Hey all!

The riders did seem to be thankful for a bit of encouragement at the end - I did a 50 mile charity ride once (on a mountain bike in the MS150 - didn't make it all the way 'cause of bad knees) & I can appreciate what some encouragement can do. I hope my wife didn't offend anyone - she got a very up close & personal view of the bikes dodging the cars & vice versa on that last stretch & was pretty worried about the safety of the riders. Red Ryder - sorry we had to leave ya'll at the end, but we had to pick up Ethan & head back to Raleighwood that night. I totally agree about the food - the Carrabbas was awesome!

I've been married for over 37 year, so I am used to ranting and raving. No problem. I have actually shared your wives concerns with the coordinator and actually sent him a aerial photo noting the are of concerne and a suggested correction for that. I also indicated that there should be at least 3 people there including a way to get hold of medical if needed. So your wife's comments have been addressed. Thanks

[Pir8 97]

Do you guys need any info to mail the motoring hearts?

[TWISTER]

I was at FLOW yesterday and they are still not in. I just need a list of all attendees. I have addresses from the member list when you joined.

[Mr. Magoo]

I will work with you on that list Saturday, when I see you.

[Mr. Magoo]

I attended a final meeting for the Tour to Tanglewood last night, as a representative for the Tar Heel MINI Motoring Club. They had more than 1350 riders, and while they have not hit their monetary goal, they did hit their budget.

When I introduced my self as a representative for the Club which was responsible for traffic and parking, we got a round of applause. We were the only ones that got a complete round of applause and praise. Addtionally, the cyclist are asked to rate various aspects of the tour from check-in to route to food. Only two categories received increased marks. One was traffic (from 6.5 in 2005 to 6.7 in 2006 out of 7), the other was Volvo check-in (that hopefully was also a result of our traffic control at Volvo).

They were very grateful for our help, and have listened to ideas that we have. I told them that we enjoyed this very much and are planning to continue this commitment in the future. Speaking of future the next year date will be Sept. 15th. Mark your calendars early.

Again, thanks to everyone that made this a success, and display your MINI Motoring Hearts proudly for a job well done!!

[simplygriff]

Awesome! I felt like we were doing something right by the attitudes of the people arriving at Volvo. They were very appreciative!

-G

[Mr. Magoo]

Awesome! I felt like we were doing something right by the attitudes of the people arriving at Volvo. They were very appreciative!

-G

I agree and with the evaluation by the cyclists, you observation must have been correct.