7/7/07 Cruise to Tail of the Dragon

[slngsht]

After much discussion and interest in a cruise on 7/7/07 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Lotus 7, I'm starting this to serve as the central place for group discussion for this event. Thanks for Al, the event has captured alot of interest.



Al and I will update this first post on the thread with the latest developments.



An event registration page is almost complete, and will be online by Wednesday, July 19th.



Looking forward to a great outing with fellow seveners!





<font color=RED>Registration Page:</font>>http://www.usa7s.com/forum/shopping.asp (http://www.usa7s.com/forum/shopping.asp)

---------------------------------------------------

Here is some basic event information:



General information about the dragon can be found here:

>http://www.tailofthedragon.com/ (http://www.tailofthedragon.com/)



Preliminary schedule of events:

7/6 Friday AM Registration

7/6 Friday PM Informal Car Show and Mixer

7/7 Saturday AM Auto X/Track Day/Group Drive

7/7 Saturday PM Group Dinner

7/8 Sunday AM Group Drive

7/8 Sunday PM Farewell



Recommended place to stay:

>www.tapocolodge.com (www.tapocolodge.com)

Ask for Marsha Cody or Dana

Adams and tell them you're part of the Sevens group. Phone number is 828-498-2435/800-822-5083



Autocross event:

We have had discussions with the TN valley SCCA group, and they are ready to step up and host an event for us. More details to come...



Guest speaker:

Al is working on this one... more to come...



Registration page: to be announed on 7/19/06

<font color=RED>Registration Page:</font>

>http://www.usa7s.com/forum/shopping.asp (http://www.usa7s.com/forum/shopping.asp)<edited><editID>slngsht</editID><editDate>2007-03-10 13:28:45</editDate></edited>

[slngsht]

A little update on the autocross...



I've talked to the local TN SCCA chapter, and they are willing to setup an autox for us.



They prefer to do it on Sunday, but Saturday is possible too.



The next step is to reserve the lot, which they normally do in January. I'll keep you posted.

[slngsht]

Registration page is up!



I asked my QA team to look at it <img border="0" src="smileys/smiley36.gif[/img]



Let me know if you run into any problems



>http://www.usa7s.com/forum/eventregistration/index.aspx (http://www.usa7s.com/forum/eventregistration/index.aspx)

[snettleship]

<P>I'm getting really excited about the 7-7-7 "rally" next year.&nbsp; One thing I was thinking of is how much do we want this event to grow?&nbsp; Is the intent to have a LOG 27 East?&nbsp; If that's true then the humble beginnings from Al may need a bit more organization, and possibly financing.</P>
<P>Personally, I like the lower key approach but if people want to volunteer their time and not add too much to the overall cost of the event, then so be it.&nbsp; Either way, we'll be there.</P>
<P>Scott</P>
<P>&nbsp;</P>

[slngsht]

Hi Scott,



My personal preference is to keep the atmosphere as a big group of friends going cruising :).

We'll have an autocross to take some of our aggression out safely.

We'll have to pay something for the autocross event, but generally I'd like to keep the cost to a minimum.



I do an event like this with the vette crowd every year. We generally get 150 cars... There are no guest speakers, but we do a group lunch, etc... It's a great way to make new friends and catch up with the old ones.



As things are now, Al is focusing on sponsors and speakers, I'm working on registration and autox setup, and Marsha and Paul will be doing alot of the tasks that require local presence.



We have a year to go - so time is on our side at this point to make sure this goes smoothly.

[slngsht]

When I called to register for the room, I did ask about parking for trailers. They do have an area for dropping off our trailers, although it won't be in the main parking area if alot of us tow our cars down.

[Al Navarro]

For starters, I want to state for the record that although I may have been

the one to pen the first email, the idea for the 7-7-7 TotD really came out

of a dialog among the June 2006 Skyline Drive VA attendees (which

Mazda organized).



I actually remember a quote by Steve T. when we were talking about the

potential dangers of the road and he said "Yeah, but I still want to do it."



As for what do I want this event to be? I'm with Mazda & Scott. As low

key (and as inexpensive) as possible. I did want the manufacts & dealers

to be in so that we can all have a looksie at the latest and greatest.



And since we're all convening, it would be nice to hear a speaker - if the

costs aren't crazy. I've got the LOG price sheet one hand to see what is

reasonable and customary.



Here's a selfish reason for this not getting TOO big...I want to enjoy

myself at this thing. And if I have to worry about some hotshot speaker's

coffee being cold, that is going to harsh my mellow.



Just my "fitty" cents.

[Al Navarro]

Additionally, the "bigger picture" of this event IMHO is really captured by

the Dennis Ortenburger book, "Lotus Seven & Independents"...it's a

celebration of the original "four wheeled motorbike" concept, and the

MANY executions that have followed in its wake, even long after Lotus

stopped making the car in any form.



I think we are going to have original Series 1, Series 2, Series 3, and

Series 4 vehicles represented - which is just a great historical timeline for

all LSiS enthusiasts to see in one place. I envision those being on static

display for the evening events so that we can all touch and feel them and

ask their keepers all sorts of silly questions.



Finally (for now), I really dig all the variants and have always wanted this

to be all inclusive - so if Cat USA or one of the speakers won't touch the

event because of our diversity, it's their loss. I could see it from an

editorial POV, but this is just an enthusiasts event and hopefully they

could get over themselves and just come out to have fun.

[slngsht]

all, I got this question via email from Jeremy (posting with his permission). Chime in with your opinions...

Hi guys,



I've registered for the Dragon Event. But I'm a bit concerned about the

direction you are going with the preliminary schedule of events.



Here's my impression from an initial look at your registration page

I would find it a very long way to go just for a "Car Show" and an

"Auto X".

What are the Group 1, 2 & 3 Drives?

Will we have to sign up for a Group in order to run the Dragon?

If so, does that mean we only get to run it once?

Is there any way you could run timed runs on the Dragon?



I run a lot of Vintage Hill climbs and track days with my Seven as well

as driving it on the street.

I also go to a lot of events where there are many other Sevens in

attendance. So the idea of standing around at a small car show or

watching people burn tires in a parking lot is not a real motivator for

driving seven hours to an event.



If the draw of the event is the Dragon, then why not concentrate your

activities on driving it?



Just my thoughts. Keep up the great work.







... and my response...



Group drives 1, 2 and 3 are just placeholders right now. You don't have to register for them. As we get closer and make some dry runs down there (we have a couple of local volunteers signed up), we will

nail down the times.



The idea is to run the dragon several times. Some of us will bring family down, so not everyone may be able to make every run. The group drive is just a way of nailing down the departing times, so everybody

is ready to leave together.



As for a timed trial, that won't be possible. the Dragon is a public highway, and from what I've read, the local law enforcement has not make a habit of closing the road down (unlike some other roads in the West).



Regarding the car show, there will probably a few "mint" early cars there, as well as demo cars (I think Dennis already said something about bringing a few Stalkers). This probably won't be a formal car show, where you have to camp out by the car. Again, drawing parallels to the corvette cruises I go on... we gather an hour before the cruise starts, and while people are gathering and chit-chatting, we have a group of kids walk through and pick out their favorite car - that's the "car show" winner.



All this still has to be hashed out. The schedule will probably be different when we're done.



about the autox... Al already knows I earned a speeding ticket at the last cruise we were on. I wanted to provide a venue for people to take out some of their aggression. This won't be an official autocross event, so you will get more than just 4 runs. When I talked to the local SCCA chapter down there, I made a point to make sure we have the same understanding. They have done similar setups for other

car clubs, and he mentioned that they haven't had anyone complain about not getting enough runs.

<edited><editID>slngsht</editID><editDate>2006-08-31 17:55:39</editDate></edited>

[Al Navarro]

Here's what I wrote to Jeremy (another example of redundant efforts!):



----



Everything is just preliminary, so thanks for the input. It will only make

the event better.



One or more of the group drives will definitely be on the Dragon, and

obviously we won't be so overly scheduled that you can't pop out and

crush it yourself in between dinners, before breakfast etc. The other

group drive will most definitely be the Cherohola Skyway, which will

probably have far less traffic. And, I've heard that there are lots of other

great roads to hit in the area with less idiot bikers. The Dragon is still a

public road so you are free to drive it all you want.



The locals tell me that it will be near impossible to get too many cars to

get a "clean" run at the Dragon. So my initial thinking is to send cars out

in "flights" of 3-5, with a rendezvous at the end, then as slow parade lap

back. I'm trying to coordinate some chase car/bike video too.



As for why you should come and how it's different than everything else.

Well, technically it's not. However, not many of us have the Dragon in our

backyard. Nor upwards of 25 (so far) Sevens of all types available to

check out - including a Series 1, Series 2, Series 3, and Series 4.



As for "timed runs" Japanese touge style, I doubt that will happen. All

sorts of liability that I don't want. And besides, if the bike clubs who stalk

the dragon haven't done it yet, then I doubt we'll be able to. It's not Pikes

Peak, after all.

[Al Navarro]

Folks-



I went through all my "confirmed" emails last night, as well as through

most of the threads on se7ens.net.



And I'm both happy and shocked to say that we have 24 people who are

either already booked into the Tapoco or very seriously intending to

come.



I sense that there might be a need for overflow lodging, so I'm going to

contact the Fontana Village and let them know to block out some rooms

for the Friday/Sat nights.



Don't forget to register at usa7s.com (there are 13 folks signed up there),

which will be the "official" host site going forward.



-Al



X-post on se7ens.net

[Al Navarro]

ANOTHER REASON TO 7-7-7



I just got off the phone with Ron Johnson, the person who runs the TotD

website.



He and his wife will be available to give a presentation on the history of

the Dragon as well as show a video they have (probably on bikes, with a

fair about of lean angle involved!)



Sounds like a good event for Friday night.



Additionally, some folks have asked me about what nights to book.

Here's what I wrote to them:



"There is a two night minimum, so all we are asking people to do is make

one of the nights the Saturday 7/7.



It’s up to you what other nights you wish to come. So you could do a

Friday Sat and leave Sunday, or a Sat/Sun and leave Monday (But then

you’d miss out on the Friday events.)"



Also, USA7s.com has got the reg site up



http://www.usa7s.com/forum/eventregistration/index.aspx



and running and a thread about the event here



http://www.usa7s.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=137&PN=1



EVEN IF YOU'VE WRITTEN TO ME THAT YOU'RE COMMITTED, PLEASE

REGISTER. Mazda and I will be reconciling our lists on an ongoing basis.

[Al Navarro]

Would people be interested in either of the following:



• Using this event to kick off a US chapter of the UK/worldwide club?

• Having an "attendees scrapbook" that catalogs the folks/cars in

attendance (you fill out a form early next year and take a pic or two of

your car, I compile, proofread, print, bind, and give out at ToTD) ?



I want to touch on costs for a brief second...hopefully everyone

understands that there will be some out of pocket for the dinners/

lunches/auto x events/car stickers or dash plaques, etc.



I've got the LOG form on hand to see what's reasonable and customary,

and we'll try to keep it as cheap as possible (from what I know already,

our main dinner will be pretty inexpensive compared to LOG).



PLease chime in on this topic(s), as we want as much input as possible to

make as many people as happy as possible.

[Bill/Marcy P]

<P>Bill and Marcy Power took a drive on the Tail today.&nbsp; We visited Tapoco and had Sunday dinner there.&nbsp; The whole place is immaculate.&nbsp; There are a pool, horseshoe pits, shuffleboard, tennis court,&nbsp;and ping pong for recreation.&nbsp; The food was great and plentiful.&nbsp; The accommodations, while simple, are fine.&nbsp; There is a large lot for parking trailers.&nbsp; A great area for parking our cars and displaying to interested folks.&nbsp; The drive on the Tail was great.&nbsp; The cautions about traffic and policing are appropriate.&nbsp; One cannot always travel as quickly as one might like!&nbsp; The alternative accommodations at Fontana Village Resort are quite nice and not but a few miles down "Hellbender 28", NC Hwy. 28.&nbsp; There are also camping facilities available in Fontana.&nbsp; </P>
<P>Tapoco annually hosts gatherings of Minis and Miatas.&nbsp; They know how to handle us car folks!http://www.usa7s.com/aspnetforum/images/emoticons/smiley2.gif</P>
<P>Mazda has posted some photos we took.&nbsp; Although they're not captioned, perhaps you'll find them helpful.</P>

[slngsht]

Here are the pics:

http://www.usa7s.com/forum/uploads/slngsht/ToTD/Bill%20and%20Marcy%20having%20fun.JPG



http://www.usa7s.com/forum/uploads/slngsht/ToTD/Fontana%20Resort%20Lodge.JPG

http://www.usa7s.com/forum/uploads/slngsht/ToTD/Lawn%20and%20Pool%20at%20Tapoco.JPG

http://www.usa7s.com/forum/uploads/slngsht/ToTD/Our%20Caterham%20parked%20below%20cabins.JPG

http://www.usa7s.com/forum/uploads/slngsht/ToTD/The%20Obstructor%20II.JPG

http://www.usa7s.com/forum/uploads/slngsht/ToTD/The%20Obstructor.JPG

http://www.usa7s.com/forum/uploads/slngsht/ToTD/Trailer%20Lot%20at%20end%20of%20cabin%20drive.JPG

[slngsht]

Marcy, thanks for all the notes and the pictures. The back lot seems perfect for trailers. I wasn't sure how good it was going to be after talking to the guy on the phone there.

[Bill/Marcy P]

Mazda, thanks for putting my post and photos on the correct topic.&nbsp; For anyone who's interested the photos are 1) a self portrait; 2) the entrance to Fontana Village Resort Lodge (alternative accommodations); 3) the lawn at Tapoco; 4) our Caterham parked at the foot of the cabin closest to the lodge; 5) &amp; 6) traffic on the Tail;&nbsp;and 7) the trailer lot at Tapoco.&nbsp; Bill had to remind me that several years ago we'd done a drive with the local English Auto Society and had lunch at the Tapoco Lodge.&nbsp; We enjoyed it then, too.&nbsp; Other photos I took are of scenery and some cycles.&nbsp; There are photographers who camp out on curves, and we had our picture taken several times yesterday.&nbsp; Be prepared to smile and wave!

[Al Navarro]

X-post from Se7ens.net:



Regarding 777, we're now up to to 29 cars (and last night I looked at my

initial list of handraisers to dedupe lists and the actual number is more

like 35!) And one recent addition is coming from Cali! Hoorah!



I now think 50 vehicles is not out of question, and perhaps we should

even start to consider a ceiling number. As noted by others, we still have

lots of time. The nice thing about people signing up early is that the

volunteer organizers can gauge the interest in "optional" events (like auto

x and tech sessions) and also get a read on where the "birthday" dinner

should be held (really depends on # of attendees). Thanks again for all

your interest.



A few thoughts on the inclusiveness of the event:



• I haven't reached out to the Lotus Limited folks directly because of the

potential snob factor I sense I may receive, and don't really intend to

reach out to them any time soon. I think the Seven crowd among them

will find us one way or another. (That said, I am indeed a relatively recent

member of LL.)



• I have already reached out to the UK club and they think it's a great idea

(although I think Tony P. thinks we're all crazy for our choice of road) and

may even promote it in an upcoming Low Flying (the full color club mag)



Additionally, my correspondence with the UK club leads me to believe

that they are fairly inclusive over there (not that there's as much variety in

available MFGs there as over here). I found this attitude refreshingly

encouraging, and feel we should err toward this inclusiveness.



If some people don't want to mingle with the other makes and even get a

chance to meet some manufacturers and hear how they've evolved Colin

Chapman's original concept, then I think it's really their loss.

[slngsht]

It takes all kinds... <img border="0" src="smileys/smiley36.gif[/img]



> http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-3023099021721761508 &q=deals+gap (http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-3023099021721761508&q=deals+gap)

[DeanG]

Al;



Please stop with the ugly comments about other groups. The world of Lotus is too small without further Balkanization of the community.





The board of Lotus Ltd has already had a brief discussion about the 7/7/7 event. We as a club are trying to find ways support more and better events. I personally believe that local Lotus Ltd affiliated clubs should try to do more and the national organization should try and help them.



As an aside, one Lotus Ltd. board member is already planning to attend the event and another (that would be me) would like to attend provided I have a running Seven and can afford the time and treasure necessary.

[slngsht]

Dean, welcome to the forum.



As far as I'm concerned, this is a dead issue. All are welcome here and at the event, and based on everything I've heard, everybody is OK with it.



That said, go to the General section and post up some pics of your ride :)



BTW, where in Virginia are you?

[Al Navarro]

Dean-



I apologize if I have offended anyone in the bona-fide Lotus community

or within Lotus Limited.



I reviewed my posts here and don't see too much that I would consider

"ugly":



"I haven't reached out to the Lotus Limited folks directly because of the

potential snob factor I sense I may receive, and don't really intend to

reach out to them any time soon. I think the Seven crowd among them

will find us one way or another. (That said, I am indeed a relatively recent

member of LL.)"



Note my use of "potential" and "sense". Other members of the Se7ens

community have set me straight on this already, and right quick.



Thanks for your input. Keep the faith.



-Al



P.S. Serious bonus points for your use of "balkanization". <img border="0" src="smileys/smiley2.gif[/img]

[Al Navarro]

X-POST FROM usa@se7ens.net:



Regarding 7-7-7, I want people to understand that there are a bazillion great drives within spitting distance of the Dragon, and some others a little more distant. And in between all the "official" drives and meals, we should all hit as many as possible. George H. even proposed a "Asheville and back" blat for those who crave a little interstate pace. I personally would love to visit a town called Sylva that from my guidebook looks incredibly quaint. And I'm sure our group drive on the Cherohola will include a lunch in Tellico Plains.



What else. Not much besides the fact that I would love to see Keith Tanner and the Locost contingent represented, as well as having at least one Series 1 owner officially commit to the event so we have the lineage display locked up. Anyone? Anyone? Dean G. can you forgive me?

[DeanG]

I am located in Newport News, VA.



The 7 is not quite photogenic yet, although nose is getting shiny as I find I polish it when I want to work on the car and can’t think of anything more productive to do. At the moment the 7 needs a bunch of work before it will be safe to drive. I did get my Lotus fix by taking a spin in our M100.

[slngsht]

I am located in Newport News, VA.



The 7 is not quite photogenic yet, although nose is getting shiny as I find I polish it when I want to work on the car and can’t think of anything more productive to do. At the moment the 7 needs a bunch of work before it will be safe to drive. I did get my Lotus fix by taking a spin in our M100.



Next time I come down that way, I'll send you an email before hand. I used to come down alot since my brother lived at VB, but not so much anymore.

[solder_guy]

I see that there are 33 car/drivers planning to attend as of today (Aug 8th). It would be helpful if you added another column which lists those who plan to tow their cars and those who wish to drive.



Rob Mitchell

[slngsht]

Rob, we are collecting that info.



I don't see any harm in showing it, but when we collected the info, the field wasn't marked as one we would publicly show.



I will be sending out a note in a little bit, asking for some more info from the people who registered, like how many people they are bringing (to help with meal planning). At that time, I'll also ask if anyone has any objection to displaying that field.



Are you going to attend?



-Mazda

[solder_guy]

Are you going to attend?



Plan toooo.



Rob Mitchell

[slngsht]

Sign up if you haven't already. Tapoco is already filled up. There are not many lodging choices that are super close (numbers are listed on the registration page)

[powderbrake]

Tapoco was filled up so I registered at the Fontana Resort. They said they had room for the trailer near the Lodge. looking forward to the trip.

[DeanG]

A modest proposal - It might be a good idea to hold an informal information sharing and planning session for the 7/7/7 event at LOG. There will certainly be a bunch of 7ish cars in attendance (at least it always seems there too many nice cars to pick from when voting at the concours) and even more 7 enthusiasts/owners.

[slngsht]

A modest proposal - It might be a good idea to hold an informal information sharing and planning session for the 7/7/7 event at LOG. There will certainly be a bunch of 7ish cars in attendance (at least it always seems there too many nice cars to pick from when voting at the concours) and even more 7 enthusiasts/owners.



Hi Dean,

I won't be there (since I don't own a Lotus) and I don't think Al will either, but there are quite a few Lotus 7s on the reservation list. I look forward to any ideas you guys come back with after LOG (the same with suggestions from anybody attending the 7/7/7 event), and if you manage to snag a few more Lotus 7s to join us, that'd be awesome.

Thanks.

[Al Navarro]

Fontana now MORE aware of our event.



Folks. Apparently a few people were asking for Toni Crisp at Fontana (as we directed on the reg page) this week, and she told them she didn't know anything about it.



The deal is I had spoken with and corresponded with Toni back in July, but had not officially blocked out rooms as I didn't know if we'd even need them (and nothing is worse than people who say they're going to need 25 rooms and then bailing!). I was and still am planning on going to NC in Nov, and was going to meet with Toni then.



When I heard today that some folks had reached out Toni and there was some confusion, I called her right away. We have revised the registration page accordingly...you are now supposed to merely mention the Sevens event and don't worry about speaking specifically to Toni.



Sorry for any inconvenience this may have caused folks.

[Al Navarro]

Update on 7-7-7.



Mazda and I met up this past weekend to go over odds and ends for the Tail of the Dragon Event.



In an effort to make it the event that attendees have in mind, we will be sending an email with some questions (or a link to questionnaire) to current registrants. We want to know stuff like:



• How many people are you bringing? Will you be bringing non-driving spouse and/or kids? (so we can possibly plan for non-car activities and day trips, and perhaps even baby sitting...note that Mazda and I have small children and as of now are planning to bring them)



• What hotel are you booked into and which nights (so we can plan in transit times for our full group events)



• What sorts of souvenirs would you want included in your registration fee or a la carte (not everyone may want a t-shirt, etc.)



And so on. If you are a registrant, please be on the lookout for this email the first week of Sept. The questionnaire may seem on the long side, but your answers will help mold the event into something that people will really enjoy.



Additionally, Mazda and I spoke about the registration fee. As I noted earlier, there will be some sort of fee to cover insurance, some printing fees (not everyone will enjoy downloading and printing a 5 meg route map PDF), and possibly some labor (locals to help with day of activities so the organizers can also have fun with the rest of the gang) but we'll keep this minimal.



Right now we are thinking about including the group meals in this reg fee (for 1 adult), with a la carte meal pricing for additional family members.



Again, we welcome your input. Post here or write to Mazda and I directly. Also, Mazda and I fully intend to visit the Dragon in November to sort other issues out and meet with the semi-local Seveners who have raised their hands to volunteer help. We should be able to sort out all fees by the end of November and will post them here and on the reg page.



Oh, finally, note that Mazda and I are shooting for a May 7, 2007 registration deadline so that we have 2 months to finalize the attendee welcome packs, souvenirs, etc. Of course, we will allow people to register after the deadline and even at the event itself (if you can find lodging remotely close by at that point), but they may not get the official t-shirt or whatever until after the event is over.



That's all for now!

[Al Navarro]

BUT WAIT, THERE'S MORE (X-POST FROM USA-REQUEST@SE7ENS.NET)



----



Regarding 777, we think it would be interesting and fun to have a dyno and/or scales on hand. After all, who doesn't want to know how much they're putting out at the wheels?



So, while we will do our research into semi-local places that may want to come out the Dragon, I put this out to you all too. If you know of or have either of this devices, please chime in.



Note that we are VERY open to a dealer or shop sponsoring this partially (could charge a reasonable per car fee) or in whole. You would of course, get plenty of marketing exposure.



Also, if any of the dealers with lists of people who are "interested but not yet owners", feel free to tell them about the 7-7-7 event as there will be cars of virtually every type on hand to check out. Dealers/Mfgs may also want to consider offering test drives to people who sign up for them in advance.

[slngsht]

I'm looking forward to putting the little beast on the dyno http://www.usa7s.com/aspnetforum/images/emoticons/smile5.gif hopefully the rear will hold - if I haven't upgraded by then.

[stevet]

Something for the ladies perhaps - or even those of us planning to
drive down to the 777 weekend... my wife went down to meet some
girlfriends for a 50th bash at a Spa near Bryson City recently. The
place was pretty rustic but the treatments were excellent in her view
(and she knows a bit about this stuff). They also ate at a very good
restaurant in Nantahala called Ralia's where all the veggies were home
grown, but you need to supply yoar own booze. Also, if you stop in
Nantahala it's well worth getting some local sausage - fabulous.



Details for the Spa;





Aleen Whyte

Contact Lakeview at Fontana at:

171 Lakeview Lodge Dr. -
Bryson City, NC 28713

Phone: 800.742.6492

Email: >info@lakeviewatfontana.com (mailto:info@lakeviewatfontana.com)

>http://www.lakeviewnc.com/ (http://www.lakeviewnc.com/)

[slngsht]

Steve, Excellent. Thanks for the input. I'm sure Gail will appreciate this http://www.usa7s.com/aspnetforum/images/emoticons/yesnod.gif

[Bill/Marcy P]

The Spa sounds wonderful to me, too!&nbsp; Marcy

[Al Navarro]

I had a very good conversation with a premier mobile dyno outfit today. They have not finalized their 2007 calendar yet, but seemed very interested in our event as it is something out of the ordinary.



Additionally, I've been corresponding with various media sources regarding our event and got a nice email today from a publication you all have heard of...still too far off to commit, but they want us to keep in touch.

[slngsht]

I had a very good conversation with a premier mobile dyno outfit today. They have not finalized their 2007 calendar yet, but seemed very interested in our event as it is something out of the ordinary.



Additionally, I've been corresponding with various media sources regarding our event and got a nice email today from a publication you all have heard of...still too far off to commit, but they want us to keep in touch.



Why do I have this sudden urge to get a head / cam package? http://www.usa7s.com/aspnetforum/images/emoticons/confused5.gif

[Al Navarro]

Well, if one recent registrant's description of his ride is accurate (a 500 hp CMC), I'd say you're going to need it Mazda, to take the "King of the Dyno" title at TotD.

[slngsht]

or to take the leftovers from my rear axle home

[Al Navarro]

07/07/07 covered by radiose7en.com



I hadn't been to Andrew P's site in a few days (that day job is killing me!) and was pleasantly surprised to see that our not-so-little event warranted a post.

[Al Navarro]

What better way to end a CRAZY work week before a long holiday weekend than to post at my home away from home.



49 people have signed up for the July 07, 2007 meet...how crazy is that. Scott N. had asked early on what kind of meet we wanted it to be. Somewhere between the bicoastal Skyline weekend day trips and LOG I think is going to be eventual answer.



Thanks again everyone!

[Al Navarro]

Folks-



All 49 Se7eners registered for 7-7-7 should be getting an email from Mazda in the next few days that asks you to complete an online questionnaire which will greatly assist in the planning of 7-7-7.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Please look for that and try and complete the questionnaire as soon as you can. Note that the online format helps Mazda and I avoid manually entering data.



FYI Mazda and I are planning to go to TotD the first weekend of November to recon and meet with various hospitality and service providers. If you're interested in rendezvousing with us, let us know. We will NOT be bringing our LSiSes.



-Al



P.S. I think there may be one or two folks who have made 7-7-7 hotel reservations but who are not "officially" signed up at USA7S.com. If you are one of these people, please write to Mazda and I off board or register at USA7s.com (enter "777" for the vehicle type if your aren't bringing a LSiS to the party).



X-post from usa@se7ens.net

[Al Navarro]

REVISED (NOW WITH ACCURATE SUBTRACTION!...SORRY FOR THE EARLIER ERROR)



REGISTER NOW TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT (X-post from usa@se7ens.net)



In the very beginning, I thought we'd get like 30 or so cars for the TotD next July. That is, until Michael D. put into my head that 50 might be possible.



I know now that 53 is very possible. However, Michael's recent post made me think..."How many cars is too many?" And so I called our primary host hotel, Tapoco Lodge, to see if there is a ceiling past which things will get ugly.



Based on my talk with them today (and their previous history hosting car clubs), I'd like to officially set a hard limit of 77 LSiS vehicles.



That's seventy-seven.



Past that number, I don't think we'll fit into parking lot with any degree of comfort and civility (not to mention the space we need for trailers!).



Which means that there are basically 24 open spots left. I'd sure love to lock in a Series 1 (even for static display!), as Dean G. will try to get his together in time but understandably can't commit this far out. Maybe the LOG attendees can circle the wagons and rustle up an S1? We have S2, S3 (in the form of early Cats), and Scott N's S4.



If we reach 77 and still have interest...well, we'll cross that bridge when it comes.



Thanks again all. BTW, for those of you who have not been following the national-level club thread at USA7s.com...it's starting to get very interesting as the West and East try to come to a meeting of the minds (and merging of the forums?).



http://www.usa7s.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=154



---



As you can see, I am at work instead of Watkins Glen. It's been that kind of work week/month.

<edited><editID>Al Navarro</editID><editDate>2006-09-08 20:36:29</editDate></edited>

[kreb]

I think that you may wish to consider how a larger group may be accomodated. I'm seriously considering a cross-country trip to participate (From Oakland, CA), and have a couple pals who may want to jump in too. I know that you don't want a mob scene, but a 50-year celebration only happens once, and it just seems wrong to limit it.

[slngsht]

All, If you have registered, you should have received an automated email with further questions. Let me know if you have any trouble completing them.

[Al Navarro]

Regarding the number 77...



We picked the 77 limit after discussing lot size, parking, and other facility restrictions with the folks at our main host hotel, Tapoco Lodge.



Mazda just posted a questionnaire that will be going out to everyone who has officially registered to get a better feel for what the event will be like.



He and I are going down to ToD in early November armed with this data to talk to the locals, find local vendors for food, music, etc... After that trip we should have a much better assessment of what the true capacity is and what we can do to accomodate more.



So far we feel confident that 77 LSiS vehicles can be supported in an organized fashion. Thanks again for your interest Kreb (or is that berk?)



-Al http://www.usa7s.com/aspnetforum/images/emoticons/wink5.gif

[kreb]

Fair enough. I don't want to be a newbie barging in here and making demands. Unfortunately brokering vacations with my wife would be a good warmup for brokering peace in the middle east!



Yeah, this is Berk. I started using kreb when I first joined discussion groups in fear of making a fool of myself. Now that I've ceased to care, I suppose that I can use my real name http://www.usa7s.com/aspnetforum/images/emoticons/lol.gif

[slngsht]

All, so far we've gotten 27 responses out of the 57 that were sent out.



I have communicated with 3 of you who experienced problems, and in all 3 cases, it turned out one of the fields was too small, which is taken care of.



If you get a chance, please complete the questionnaire. It will really help with the planning of the event.



Thanks,

Mazda

[Al Navarro]

<strong>!!!MONTHLY ORGANIZER UPDATE!!!</strong>



Note that this email was sent to all 62 people who have registered for the event at the official registration page:



http://www.usa7s.com/forum/eventregistration/index.aspx



I am posting it here as a courtesy for people who have not yet registered as well as the few people who may have not received it due to technical difficulties or incorrect email address (if this applies to you, please shoot a note to Mazda). FYI, Hempy and Pete C. from TX, I got error messages from the email addresses you supplied when you registered. Please correct those when you get a chance.



Note that this is a very long post, but worth reading (IMHO!). FWIW, on my way to Niagara Falls this past weekend, I saw a convoy of motorcycles...probably about 25 strong. Impressive. Now imagine a convoy of Sevens 50 or more strong! Not a bad way to spin up interest in our little cars.



----------



Dear 7-7-7 Registrant-



Thanks to all the folks who took the time to complete our short online questionnaire from early September.



We wanted to share some of the results with you — which were definitely helpful to us, in terms of knowing what people want (and don’t want) out of the event next July.



In the responses to open-ended questions, many people have expressed a desire to keep things as laid back as possible, with a minimum of idiotic behavior, on and off the road. We couldn’t agree more and will work hard to make it a civilized, fun event where fans and owners of “four wheeled motorbikes” can meet other folks who share the same passions.



Now, on to the results of the questionnaire:



Mix of marques

Caterham – 19

Birkin – 11

Locost (including CMC & Coveland) – 8

Stalker –8

Lotus – 6

Ultralite – 4

Rotus – 4



Misc –1 (Lotus Elise)



Headcount

If we count correctly (some folks stated “0” for Total Number Attending, which we converted to “1”s), there will be between 100-125 people (owners/enthusiasts/family) attending this event. Note that as the date approaches, interest in the event will most likely grow, so that the numbers of non-owning spectators may grow too.



Very few people are bringing kids, and all but one of kids are under 10 years of age (still may be enough to warrant a dedicated babysitter).



Geographic distribution

TX & VA – 9 cars each

PA, OH, MD – 5 cars

GA & NC – 4 cars

NJ, FL, IN, MI, NY – 2 cars

CA, CT, IL, KY, MA, MO, TN, SC – 1 car



Interest in proposed events

Informal Car Show – 85%

Auto-X – 80%

Tech Sessions – 83%



The most popular suggested topics for Tech Sessions were:



Tuning, upgrades, drivetrain

and

Suspension, setup, etc.



Interest in memorabilia included as part of registration fee

T-Shirt – 68% Yes/32% No

Dash Plaque – 45% Yes/55% No

Poster – 24% Yes/76% No (I guess we definitely won’t be doing a poster then!)



When asked what sorts of other things might be interesting, the following came up: Ball cap, program booklet, and Vinyl sticker (the sticker is a great idea, since it’s relatively cheap and would look pretty mean on the tail of a Se7en).



Interest in memorabilia available “a la carte”

T-Shirt – 51% in favor

Dash Plaque – 32% in favor

Poster – 29% in favor

Hardcover Book – 24% in favor

Group Photo – 70% in favor



Some interest was expressed in an event video as well as polo shirts and other small memorabilia.



Interest in live music

51% Yes

49% No



In the open-ended comments portion, some folks expressed a desire not to have a loud DJ. Rest assured, we won’t. However, if we can get some sponsorship (more on that later) it might be nice to have a local band play for the car show/mixer.



How much free time would you like to have

Answers ranged anywhere from 10% to 80%, with the average figure coming in at 35%.



Large and Small Group Drives

The average number of Large Group drives suggested was 1.67.

The average number of Small Group drives suggested was 2.29.



One interesting approach would be t

[slngsht]

Turnout from Texas is outstanding!

[Boxologist]

http://cgi.ebay.com/CATERHAM-LOTUS-WESTFIELD-7-T-SHIRT-CYCLE-WINGS-STYLE_W0QQitemZ150044303957QQihZ005QQcategoryZ5301 0QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem



http://cgi.ebay.com/CATERHAM-LOTUS-WESTFIELD-7-T-SHIRT-CLASSIC-FRONT-WINGS_W0QQitemZ150044638917QQihZ005QQcategoryZ5301 0QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem



these look promising. maybe they'd be interested in a large order. Tail of the Dragon logo and a 7/7/07 screened on the shirt as well would make an excellent reminder of the event.



i like the idea of the poster being the group photo.



i can not give a definite answer till early next year if i will be an attendee.

[slngsht]

Pretty cool design

http://i15.ebayimg.com/02/i/08/9d/8a/4c_1.JPG

[Boxologist]

i like it that the vendor has both the image of teh cycle and clamshell wings!

[Al Navarro]

i wonder if this guy has the rights to use the silhouettes for those cars...if he's calling it a Caterham/Westfield, seems a bit odd. Trying to stay in the factories' good graces and all that.



I've got some ideas for a cool shirt design and we're going to try to work with the folks who run the Tail of the Dragon website to make the shirts...all about supporting the local and all that.



----

On a related note, a reminder that Mazda and I are going down to the Dragon for a recon trip in two weekends. If you have any questions or issues that you want answer/guidance on — please post them here or write to us offline.



Our basic objective is to check out the roads and host hotels, and also meet with various and sundry locals (like the photographer Daryl "Killboy" Cannon) to help get all of this stuff in place and finalized months before 777.



Keep in mind that the official deadline to register will be May 7, 2007 - so that we have 2 full months to wrap up planning and coordination of the event.

[slngsht]

We need to coordinate the look of the silhouettes with Magnus F. His wife is planning to design a silhouette for the club logo next week.



-----



Oh, and on our trip, don't foret that we'll be sampling the food too http://www.usa7s.com/aspnetforum/images/emoticons/wink5.gif

[Al Navarro]

Thanks to the new folks who've signed up recently. Remember that Mazda and I are headed down to TotD next weekend for a recon trip.



If you have specific questions about the event or the area, please email us directly or post them here before next Wed, Nov 1.



Also, don't forget to complete the event questionnaire and/or read the current results in one of the posts above.



Thanks again for your interest in the 7-7-7 event.



-Al

[Al Navarro]

Wow. There's been a surge of forum members as well as registrants for 7-7-7. Thanks again all.



A few weeks back, I had a discussion with the primary host hotel to see what the max capacity (for cars, not guests...we hit that a long time ago) is and the figure I was given was 80.



Mazda and I are headed down this weekend and will confirm this. But, seeing as we are at 71 already, I think that it will be prudent to start the waiting list at the 80th car, so we have guaranteed space for 77.7 LSiS vehicles (there's only one non-LSiS signed up as of today).



We'll be sure to keep the folks on the waiting list in the loop for everything going forward and then, at least 2 months before the event, have a "are you really in?" deadine for the first 77.7 to sign up — if there are people who withdraw (expected and totally fine as long as you let us know in advance instead of bailing the weekend before), then we'll offer spaces to the people on the waiting list in order of registering.

<edited><editID>Al Navarro</editID><editDate>2006-11-01 09:56:14</editDate></edited>

[Al Navarro]

X-post from RECON Thread.



A report from our Nov. 4 visit to TotD.



My initial and lasting impression is that the Tapoco Lodge is PERFECT for our needs. We can park lots of cars there, in the main lot and also up the access road to the cabins and quonset hut/theater. We were able to ask the owners lots of questions and get a lot of guidance on how we want to structure meals and meets and menus.



Right now, we're thinking about having 3 official group meals...Friday Dinner (burgers and portable foods so you can walk around and check cars out), Saturday buffet breakfast (including eggs and such), then Saturday dinner again (perhaps a pig roast, so it's more festive). For Sat lunch and Sunday meals, you're on your own (some folks are leaving early Sunday anyhow).



We're still discussing how to bill registrants for the meals — I personally prefer to not have to shell out for every little thing, instead paying a flat rate that includes all the stuff, including gratuties, etc. I don't know about the rest of you, but I want to just enjoy the time with everyone and not have to keep reaching for my wallet. Please post your thoughts on this matter here.



Another idea that came up on the visit was the notion of having movie screenings at night in their large quonset hut, a large building with vaulted ceiling that seats up to 150. Stuff like "The Prisoner", "Rendezvous", "Le Mans", "Grand Prix", etc. <edited><editID>Al Navarro</editID><editDate>2006-11-04 13:56:35</editDate></edited>

[Al Navarro]

X-post from RECON Thread.



FULL DRAGON RUN VIDEO



In 5 parts.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;



No sound, but all you're missing is Mazda and I talking about cars and corners.



PART 1:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m4-a9t5Jd8Q



PART 2:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Np6slCqP6hM



PART 3:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9IXKP9RNK08



PART 4:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=edBiQ-u-ecA



PART 5:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kn3sjBkAhc4

[Al Navarro]

<strong>!!!MONTHLY ORGANIZER UPDATE!!!</strong>



Note that this email was sent to all 75(!!!) people who have registered for the event at the official registration page:



http://www.usa7s.com/forum/eventregistration/index.aspx



I am posting it here as a courtesy for people who have not yet registered. It’s not my intention to rehash everything from the trip in this post. But I did want to share some observations about the area. Pardon me if I ramble:



For starters, it’s quite a beautiful part of America. And still, seemingly unspoiled (read: there is no Starbucks or Walmart in Robbinsville….yet). It’s also quite affordable, all things considered. For example, a 12 oz. bottle of soda at a vending machine cost me 75¢ — I was already pulling a dollar and change out to pay. A great meal for 4 adults (no alcohol) at the one Mexican restaurant in town was $40, with tip. You’d pay 50% over or more in my neck of New Jersey (and I live in a very rural part of NJ). I also saw gas under $2.



Speaking of no alcohol, Graham County NC is dry. Meaning they do not sell beer, wine, or hard liquor in stores. However, thanks to a grandfathered loophole that has to do with having a tennis court on site, the Tapoco Lodge can sell beer and wine. You can bring your own hard alcohol if desired, but please support the locals in your consumption of beer and wine.



All the people we met with were extremely nice. Alas, we were not able to get to Fontana Lodge on this outing — we just ran out of time and put researching possible auto-X sites first. Apologies to anyone who was looking for a POV on Fontana. The good news is that we will try to make one more visit in the Spring and will make Fontana a priority. If anyone who lives closer feels like taking pix of rooms and such for the group, that would be appreciated too.



Do not be fooled by mileage signs. Because of the general meandering of virtually every road in the area, it takes about twice as long to get where you’re going. So if something is 15 miles away, count on it taking about 30 minutes. Robbinsville is about 20 minutes to Tapoco, which is 30 minutes away from Fontana. There are serious elevation changes between Tapoco and Deal’s Gap and Fontana too.



While I’m on the subject of driving…even if the Dragon didn’t exist, this would be a driver’s/motorcyclist’s paradise. 129 from Tapoco to Robbinsville (technically not part of the Dragon) would be a prime blatting road just about anywhere else. Ditto Rte. 143, which takes you past Ron and Nancy Johnson’s house on the way to the Cherohala. An aside about the Johnsons…they have a gravel drive at their property, but they assure me that one of their rental homes (“The Ridge”) has easy access for sports cars, in addition to including a large barn that could house quite a few Sevens…so if you don’t have a place to stay yet (it’s about 30 minutes from Tapoco, in the opposite direction from Fontana) you may want to check it out.



Mazda and I stayed at the MicroTel, which is new and offered small and spare but clean and comfortable rooms. The only potential drawback to staying there (or the nearby San Ran) is that your car is visible from the main road. Not that that is necessarily a problem — there were a few high-end cars parked in the lot during our stay, including a GT3ish looking Porsche. If you are concerned and want a more private place to park you car, then choose Fontana or perhaps the Blue Boar Inn or Blue Waters Lodge (see tailofthedragon.com for links to the sites of these properties). People looking for more upscale lodgings should look into the Snowbird Resort, where we’re told Porsche has hosted several journalist junkets.



We thought about rain contingencies quite a bit over the weekend. And I think capping our numbers at 77.7 gives us an advantage because we can fit everyone into Tapoco’s quonset hut (seats 150) for meals. And should it rain for the bulk of Saturday, we will have some activities (slot and/or RC car racing, as well as movies) to keep the less hardy

[Al Navarro]

And just in case you haven't made yourself sick enough watching the videos above...whoop, here it is (a condensed version that flies through half an hour of driving in about 6 minutes):



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6mWEKGejHDM<edited><editID>Al Navarro</editID><editDate>2006-11-09 07:51:17</editDate></edited>

[powderbrake]

I am looking for advice on the best route to the Dragon.

I am coming from St.Louis, pulling a 16' enclosed trailer with a Tahoe, and I don't think I want to drive that combination through the Tail Of The Dragon. It appears to be very tight for a car-trailer combination, and I don't want to tie up the traffic in case someone is making a "Banzai" run.

I am staying at the Fontana Village, so if I come at it from the south, through Chattanooga, then hwys 64, 129,74,and 28, I can avoid the Dragon.

Can anyone advise me if this is a good route?



My Microsoft Trips & Streets says this is 606 miles for me, which is about 50 miles further than coming from the north through Knoxville and via the Dragon, but I want to experience the Dragon for the first time in my Se7en.



Any advice would be appreciated.

[Al Navarro]

Jerry-



I think Bill & Marcy P. would be best qualified ot answer...the Cherohala from Tellico Plains, TN (off of 40/75/411) may not be terrible either...see tailofthedragon.com for a map of regionl.



http://www.tailofthedragon.com/maps_directions_knoxville.html



-Al

[Al Navarro]

Folks...apparently the email I sent to the registrants earlier today never came through (I cc'd myself and still haven't received it!). I tried one more time just now but don't want to push my luck and start peeving people off in case they both come through at once. Rest assured that teh post above contains entirety of email.-Al

[Al Navarro]

NOW JUST ONE SLOT LEFT!!!



Wow, I just saw that there are 78 people signed up as of this PM. Less Tony V's Elise, that's 77 LSiS cars. Throw in a point-seven (0.7) that gets rounded up (or covers a semi-complete car) http://www.usa7s.com/aspnetforum/images/emoticons/wink5.gif



As I mentioned on a recent post to the usa@se7ens.net list, we'll be keeping a standby list from car 80 on up. Before the end of 2006, we'll announce the reg. fee (will cover meals, insurance, some printing costs of maps, etc.) and start taking deposits, with a hard deadline sometime in the Spring, to give us time to offer any unclaimed/unpaid slots to people on the standby list.



Thanks again all for your interest and support.

[Al Navarro]

X-post from General Thread



Friends, romans, carntrymen...



I'm happy (and frankly shocked!) to report that it seems like we have met our full complement of 77.7 LSiS vehicles for the 7-7-7 Event down at Tail of the Dragon next July.



We will start taking names for the waiting list now.



Note that the cap on the number of cars is really based on wanting to have an organized fun event and not mass chaos.



On another note, we will be announcing the costs of the event (reg. fee) and what will be included for the reg. fee somewhere around Dec. 7, in our monthly organizer updates.



X-post from Events Thread

[Al Navarro]

<strong>!!!Monthly Organizer Update!!!

</strong>



This email was just sent out to everyone who has signed up via the 7-7-7 registration page.



----------



Dear 7-7-7 Registrant-



Al Navarro again.



Time, it appears, is one of the only things that flies faster than a Se7en.



It seems like just yesterday when the East Coast Skyline group that Mazda brought together was sitting around a table poking around the idea of meeting up again, perhaps with even more Se7eners… at a certain road that traverses the North Carolina-Tennessee border.



That was over 6 months ago, and thanks to the efforts and interest of many, our little meet at Tail of the Dragon has grown to what I think will probably be the largest gathering of LSiS vehicles ever in the USA. And now is the time when the rubber truly meets the road.



Based on our recon trip to the Dragon, input from folks who have registered, and further discussion among the event organizers, we have established a registration fee for the event of $100/per driver. This fee will be collected via a secure online page that uses the popular and reliable PayPal system. You can pay with a PayPal account or any credit/debit card. The normal (and nominal) PayPal fees will be added to your total. If you would like to avoid these fees or prefer an offline transaction, an address to which you can send a check or money order will be provided. The online order form will be live on or around January 7, 2007 — we’ll send an email announcement.



The $100 fee breaks down as shown. Each line item is more fully described below.



$40 group meal package

$20 Annual USA7s Club membership — includes insurance

$20 Regalia (T-shirt and other souvenirs)

$20 Route Map/Event Booklet Printing and Misc. On-site costs



<u>Group Meals</u>

There will be 3 group meals.



- Friday casual dinner

(Outdoor grill: hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken breast sandwiches, veggie burgers, assorted trimmings, non-alcoholic beverages)



- Saturday breakfast buffet



- Saturday Night Pig Roast



Non-alcoholic beverages will be included in the meal price. Beer and wine will be available for purchase at the dinners. For the sake of convenience, we have built in a gratuity for all meals.



The meal package is available separately for additional adults attending with the primary registrant. Because of the relatively small number of children coming, kids’ meals will be handled on an a la carte basis. Additionally, no official group breakfast has been scheduled for Sunday morning, as autocross participants may have to leave fairly early in the morning.



<u>Club Membership</u>

Building on the momentum of the USA7s.com forum, a fledgling national-level marque-inclusive club has been created. More details on the goals and benefits of this not-for-profit organization will be available in January.



The primary benefit of membership as it relates to this event is insurance coverage for the event organizers and attendees. Note that this protection applies to the PNW 2007 Tour organizers and attendees also — if you register for the 7-7-7 event, the membership fee is waived for PNW 2007, and vice versa.



Some of the annual membership fees will go toward the hosting costs of the USA7s.com site — which I think has proven to be a valuable resource to all LSiS enthusiasts. Additionally, the costs of incorporation and non-profit status registration for the club have been shared among a core group of founding members and we’re planning to reimburse these guys as dues revenue allows. Again, look for an announcement in January 2007 about this exciting new club for LSiS owners and fans.



<u>Regalia</u>

Based on replies to our registrant survey, we will have a custom T-shirt printed for all event attendees — with some additional shirts available for purchase or order at the event. A dash plaque or some other keepsake may also be created.



<u>Printing and Misc. Costs</u>

When Mazda and I were down at TotD, Ron and Nancy Johnson (tailofthedragon.com) pro

[Al Navarro]

<strong>NOTE: The following email addresses bounced back to me:



anthonyseven@mac.com



JglenG@jimgunther.com



peterhallinor@judgefite.com



PLPerryiii@prdigy.net



alkitch@microntransformers.com



If you are one of these people and would like to keep getting the monthly event updates, please email Mazda E. or I with an updated email address or chime in here.



UPDATE: I've gotten corrected email addresses for the first 3. Thanks!



</strong>

<edited><editID>Al Navarro</editID><editDate>2006-12-14 06:14:05</editDate></edited>

[DeanG]

Finally made our reservation at the Fontana Village Resort.



Dean

[Al Navarro]

A point of clarification:



I got a reply from one registrant who asked what the costs for spouses/significant others would be.



My response to him was that you'd have to simply pay another meal package ($40). He also asked about getting a t-shirt for the spouse/significant other to help them feel like they're more part of the event. I'd like to know people's opinions on including a t-shirt for spouse/significant others with the additional meal package — we were trying to keep the prices as low as possible and decided to handle the additional t-shirts a la carte. Please chime in if you have any opinion on this.



<strong>A second point of clarification:</strong>

I want to point out that Mazda and I are merely "Acting" President and Treausurer of the USA7s Club. In the paperwork for the incorporation and not-for-profit status, a minimum of 3 officers had to be noted. Jerry E. is the Acting Secretary. Elections will be held sometime in 2007, after the Club membership gets some critical mass.

<edited><editID>Al Navarro</editID><editDate>2006-12-12 13:17:36</editDate></edited>

[Boxologist]

make an extra meal package/t-shirt option. there may even be some gray market aparel. apparrel. in peril? clothing, whatever.

[mr2dux]

In the post above, there is a breakdown of costs of the $100 registration fee. Seems to me simple enough to allow a second participant in the same car to choose what additional features they want. My passenger will definitely want the Regalia (T-shirt and other souvenirs) option, and may want a book. I'm happy to pay the additional $60 for the food and stuff options, and think that would be an easy way to handle it. FWIW.

Mark

[slngsht]

We'll make it happen http://www.usa7s.com/aspnetforum/images/emoticons/cheers2.gif

[solder_guy]

memorabilia? USA7s.com keychain??



Rob Mitchell, Atlanta, GA

[Al Navarro]

Rob-



We're still sorting out the non-t-shirt mementos...got a good lead on panoramic photography from one registrant and lots of good feedback from others.



Our January email should be going out by Mondayish...keep an eye on your in boxes.



One note I'd like to make is for all the manufacturers/distributors who have signed up or who are interested to email me (al@mintadv.com). I have an idea that I'd like to bounce off you all and want to make sure I'm connecting with the right people instead of guessing from your names on the list.



Thanks in advance. I'm looking forward to meeting all of you in person in July.



-Al

[Al Navarro]

A thought...



Since everyone has a different level of tolerance for g-forces exerted while driving their seven on the street...it might make sense to let people self identify for the 7-7-7. That way, people can hook up with people who drive at a similar pace and won't feel like the odd person out.



For example, I'm a total softy compared to Mazda. Perhaps we have sign up boards with A, B, and C groups...where Mazda is an "A" and I am more of a "B" or "C" if I've got a passenger!



Just a thought. Would love to know what people think. Also...note that the organizers will not technically not be leading or organizing individual group drives, but will allow for attendees to find other attendees and drive pre-mapped routes, starting out at mutually convenient times.

[slngsht]

I have a feeling that in July, the dragon itself will be pretty traffic constrained.



Since we'll have the autox day, I'll be saving some mojo for that.

[Al Navarro]

You may want to invest in a set of dedicated track tires to go with that mojo!



FWIW, I will be content to run mid to back of the pack, with the car's engine, tires, and close ratios making up for my numerous deficiencies. And of course, enjoy watching the really fast guys duke it out.

[slngsht]

I'll stick to about 75th percentile http://www.usa7s.com/aspnetforum/images/emoticons/smile5.gif. Dragon is not a place for saying oops.

[Al Navarro]

Now Mazda, your 75th feels more like my 99th...hence my suggestion for tiered groups above. http://www.usa7s.com/aspnetforum/images/emoticons/blush5.gif

[Al Navarro]

<strong>!!!Monthly Organizer Update!!!</strong>



Folks-



The PayPal shopping cart for 7-7-7 is up and running. The first 78 people who raised their hands for the event have been sent an email with a link to the page.



If you are one of these people, please pay your registration fee(s) before January 31, 2007. Any remaining slots will be given to people higher up the list. Directions are provided in the email for people who do not wish to use the secure e-commerce shopping cart.



If you know already that you will not be coming to this event, please let the organizers know via email (al@mintadv.com, mazda_ebrahimi@yahoo.com) so we can take your name off the registration page and offer your slot to another person.



Thanks again for your interest and support. Feel free to email or post questions/comments.



Best,



Al Navarro

[locostv8]

Al, Mazda

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I would like to suggest the possibility of a non competing participant. I am in the process of building but don't know if the 7 will be finished by then so dinn't feel right about registering as a compeditor when there might not be a car to compete in. 7/7 is our anniversery and my non car person wife is interested in going for the weekend.

Jim

[Al Navarro]

Jim et al.-



Other than the auto-x, there's no real competition going on (with the exception of a just for fun car show).



However, you do raise a good point and we'll create an option for non-LSiS driving people just as soon as we get the registrants bringing LSiS vehicles squared away.



BTW, thanks to everyone who has stepped up already and paid their registration fees...and also to those who have alerted Mazda and I to any issues with using the shopping cart.



Finally (for now), I stand corrected...JPE stands for Johnathan Palmer Evolution (how could I have forgotten that!) and I mistakenly added an "s" to the last name of Bill and Marcy Power.



-Al

[slngsht]

So far, I have payments from 13 people. Everyone who has paid should have received an automated email from paypal. You should also notice right below your name, in bold letters, that you car a <strong>club member</strong> http://www.usa7s.com/aspnetforum/images/emoticons/thumbsup.gif

[Al Navarro]

I wanted to thank everyone who's paid the registration fees so far, as well as those who have written to Mazda and/or I with questions or comments.



If you haven't already gone to the Event "shopping cart" and still intend on going to the event, please try and sign up before the end of January — this will help us plan things much more effectively.



Thanks again and Happy New Year!

[Al Navarro]

Reminder....



Will any manufacturers, distributors, and dealers who are planning on coming to the Tail of the Dragon meet please send me a Private Message via USA7s.com (see button above).



I am trying to coordinate a designated area for you to exhibit at Tapoco (under a tent, no less) and want to see how many are interested.

[Al Navarro]

TWO X-POSTS FROM USA@SE7ENS.NET



Exciting to see some of the regions starting to rally for plans to meet us all at the Dragon in July.



And it looks like Brian and the WCMs will be packing serious heat for the 7-7-7 Auto X...will the best of the East be enough to stop an Ultralite sweep? Actually, it might be good to start a subthread over on USA7s.com, under the ToTD thread specifically about the Sunday Auto X. Should there be a few simple classes (Novice, Stock, Prepared)? Not trying to over complicate, but it seems that there are enough serious folks to warrant at least a dialog/forum about it.



On a related note to all of this, I wanted to once again suggest that people try and arrive in Robbinsville on Friday, early to mid-day. This will allow you to check in, get your welcome pack, and explore the area on your own before the Friday night gathering. Saturday I think will be jam packed with to dos (group photo, full group "parade lap" of the Dragon, dinner), and I don't want anyone to miss out on some of the less famous roads in the area.



I also suggest, even if you aren't Auto-xing, to either come and watch it and/or spend Sunday doing more driving/exploring of the area. I'm sure there will be many funny stories from the Auto-X that will be passed around the table at informal dinners Sunday night.



Basically, I want everyone to get as much out of the event as possible, and I think being there all three days is critical to getting the most out of it. Just my opinion, of course...



-----



And this, in reaction to some reports that hotels are fully booked:



For anyone still without a room, or for people who are interested in splitting costs...I recommend looking into one of the house rentals featured on tailofthedragon.com.



If I were not already staying at Tapoco, I'd probably look into Snowbird Mountain Lodge (except they don't allow kids under 12)...perhaps the most upscale joint in town. Then the Blue Boar.



If anyone has made a reservation at any area hotel, but does not intend on using it, be sure to call to cancel so that people on the waiting lists can have a shot at your room.



-----



I am seriously shocked that hotels are booked, and am glad that we gave people the heads up back in July 2006. I guess we'll have some large galleries on our drives!

[Boxologist]

http://www.blueboarinn.com/



http://www.snowbirdlodge.com/index.html

[DeanG]

Please update the registration list noteing those who have paid up. This will give a better understanding of who will be there.

[slngsht]

Please update the registration list noteing those who have paid up. This will give a better understanding of who will be there.



Dean, we were going to take that page down in the next couple of days, because registration will be open to all.



You do have a good point though, regarding a central list of who is coming.



Just to give you an idea though, of the first 77, 41 have paid already.

[Al Navarro]

After reading Mazda's recent post, I wanted to again thank everyone who's taken the additional step of paying their reg fees...I knew some folks would fall out, but I am truly surprised at just how few have! At this rate, we'll easily have 50 cars on hand...probably quite a few more. The event is still 5 months away.



A few people have contacted me via PM or email with questions wondering if their deposit went through or regarding use of the shopping cart. If you were one of the first 77.7 (78) people to raise your hand for the event using the registration page we posted in the summer, you were sent an email with a link to the cart. People from 79 on up will get the link in a few days (Feb 1).



Note that in addition to a confirmation email from PayPal, you should have also received an email from Mazda that starts out: "On behalf of USA7s, Inc., I want to thank you for your payment of fees for the 7-7-7 50th Birthday Bash at Tail of the Dragon, scheduled for July 6-8, 2007."



If you paid via PayPal and did not receive an email like this, please write an email to both Mazda and I and we will track down your order. With one or two exceptions, the system seems to working as planned.



Thanks again for your support. As noted, we will be updating that info page soon — and will have an updated list of paid registrants.

[Boxologist]

i suspect that attendance will be in excess of what Al is expecting. My fear is poor weather and many of us will contemplate not coming.



ABSOLUTELY NOT!



i would bring one of my subarus and attack the dragon with that, an I suggest anyone who considers not coming due to inclement weather to just bring their tin top!

[scannon]

Is July the rainy season at the Dragon?



Skip

[slngsht]

Is July the rainy season at the Dragon?



Skip



We asked that question. They said that it rains on a regular basis, early afternoon - for 15 minutes, then the sun comes out, and it's dry again.

[Al Navarro]

Right now, we're thinking of a trip to the Biltmore Estate as a "Continuous Rain Contingency Event" for Saturday (or you could just sit in the quonset trying to set best time on the dragonesque Scalextric course I'm planning on having set up or watch Grand Prix or something)...having driven hundreds of miles in the pouring rain with just a half-hood and half doors, I can say that it makes for a memorable experience. I didn't feel all that unsafe driving at 45 in the right lane with my hazards on. And a caravan of Sevens would be quite a scene.



On another note, I wanted to ask people what they think would be a good time to try a full "parade" drive of the Dragon? Friday night before dinner? Saturday AM before/after our group photo? Saturday before our main barbeque?<edited><editID>Al Navarro</editID><editDate>2007-01-31 13:21:44</editDate></edited>

[DeanG]

Have the parade sometime before any alcohol would normally be consumed and during a light traffic part of the day.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;This could be a Sunday thing. Perhaps a parade to the auto-X site would work.

[gtaebr]

<font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font color=red><font size="2">Firstly I believe this to be my second post on this forum and my first from the UK (visiting family)



So it should be taken way to seriously!



I object to Al's comments re WCM which I rename Ultra Heavy, After all Stalker put the LITE in truck~and I put the LITE in the LITE,truck that is.



Only LITE any WCM will see from me is a tail LITE thank you very much.



Felin

LITEhearted Owner Stalker R600 #09

Way out on the lunatic fringe & the dark side

PS shout out to Berk <font color=red>!</font><edited><editID>gtaebr</editID><editDate>2007-02-01 21:09:35</editDate></edited>

[slngsht]

http://www.usa7s.com/aspnetforum/images/emoticons/rofl.gif



PUI?

[Al Navarro]

Felin-I've never met you, and I already like you! I hear a Stalker vs. Ultralites friendly rivalry shaping up for the Auto-X, with one very powerful Rotus and a few potent Caterhams, Birkins, Locosts, and Demans just to keep things interesting.-Al

[powderbrake]

<font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><font color=red><font size="2">Firstly I believe this to be my second post on this forum and my first from the UK (visiting family)



So it should be taken way to seriously!



I object to Al's comments re WCM which I rename Ultra Heavy, After all Stalker put the LITE in truck~and I put the LITE in the LITE,truck that is.



Only LITE any WCM will see from me is a tail LITE thank you very much.



Felin

LITEhearted Owner Stalker R600 #09

Way out on the lunatic fringe & the dark side

PS shout out to Berk <font color=red>!</font>



Them's fight'n words pardner!! I'm not Lite, but i'm not Ultra Heavy. I'll keep my foot on the brakes as I pass you, so you can clearly see my "lites"



Jerry

LITEhearted, but Heavyweight owner of WCM Ultralite #36<edited><editID>powderbrake</editID><editDate>2007-02-02 08:35:12</editDate></edited>

[Al Navarro]

Organizers Update (not the monthly one...that's coming soon)



Thanks again to everyone who has taken the step of paying the reg fees. According to our most recent counts, we have over 50 people paid and ready to meet in July 2007.



I did want to reach out and say that anyone who may have signed up on the initial registration page (the one where your name, state, and car type are listed)...please be sure to send an email to Mazda and/or I if you have not received an email with a link to the secure online shopping cart.



We will be taking that initial registration page down soon...and eventually be replacing it with some info for people who aren't owners yet but who might want to stop by to check out what Se7ens are all about.



I hope to get the formal February annoucement email out by this Friday...there's not too much to update as January was pretty much dedicated to sorting out registrations. Thanks to everyone who wrote with questions, comments, or issues.



-Al

[Al Navarro]

<strong>!!!MONTHLY ORGANIZERS UPDATE - FEB!!!</strong>



Note that the February Monthly Organizer's Update email was just sent out.



There are 2 versions of the email: one sent to the 54 PAID REGISTRANTS, and one sent to everyone who had signed up on the initial "I'm interested in going" registration page.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The PAID REGISTRANTS version included a list of the paid registrants names, home states, and car types.



If you fall in to either of these categories but did not receive an email from me today (be sure to check all of your email accounts, including the one you may have used for PayPal), please send me an email: al@mintadv.com.



A copy of the email without the list of paid registrants (for privacy) follows below. Note that there are still about 25 available slots for LSiS owners. We are working out the details of how future owners and enthusiasts can be involved with the event and should post that within the next month.



One final note: Based on paid registrations and other correspondence, I'm very confident that we will be able to meet our goal of having examples of original Series 1, 2, 3 and 4 Lotus vehicles at the event. Special thanks to all the Lotus owners who have committed to our mixed-marque meet!



-----



Dear 7-7-7 Registrant-



First, my apologies for the delay in getting this February organizers’ update out to you.



January was quite a busy month for Mazda and I in terms of our “day jobs”,not to mention the first month of “official” registration for the event — when you all finally got the opportunity to turn intent into some level of commitment to the event by paying registration fees.



Thanks to all of you who took the step of paying the reg. fees. And thanks for all your patience with the PayPal set up and follow up in the few cases it was required.



Here are a few at a glance facts about the registrants so far:



• As of this past Friday, Feb 9th, 54 people have paid their registration fees. And I know of at least a few people who are either stationed overseas or who are still sorting their plans out to come. We have roughly 25 open slots.



• Counted by marque, there are 11 Birkins, 10 Brunton Stalkers, 22 Caterhams, 1 Deman, 2 Locosts, 3 Loti, 2 Roti, and 4 WCM Ultralites. If you add those numbers up, you will get 55 LSiS vehicles — one attendee is bringing both a Birkin and Brunton Stalker. (Based on all the cool Locosts I’ve seen and heard on the forum, I’d love to see more representation from the Locost crowd.)



• 26 cars are signed up for the Auto-X (more about this below the registrants list): 7 Birkins, 2 Brunton Stalkers, 12 Caterhams, 1 Deman, 2 Roti, and 2 WCM Ultralites.



• Geographically, Virginia tops the count with 8 cars. Texas has 7 cars committed and Ohio & Illinois are sending 5 each. People are coming from as far away as Colorado, Minnesota, and Wisconsin — truly remarkable.



• So far 3, dealers/manufacturers/distributors have signed up, and I know that at least 2 or 3 more were intending to. I think it’s a great opportunity to show off your latest and greatest to the Se7en community in the US (and thanks to the web, the world). I would love to have some

representation from all the available marques, and am especially interested in perhaps having a roundtable where you can all present the latest developments.



Some updates and other things to think about:



Auto-X

We finally got final confirmation this week about the AUTOCROSS, which will be held on SUNDAY, JULY 8th at William Blount High School in Maryville, TN.



Here’s an overhead view:



http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&q=219+County+Farm+Rd+37801&ie=UTF8&z=18&ll=35.741453,-84.032171&spn=0.003205,0.006748&t=k&om=1



The actual event will be from Noon to 4:30 PM, with setup starting at 10 AM and takedown lasting until about 5:30 PM. If I recall correctly, because of the local roads’ circuitousness, the drive from Tapoco will take about 1 hour and 15 minutes. I will try to post pix of the lot on USA7s.com ea

[Al Navarro]

In my haste...forgot to give special mention to Bill & Marcy Power for helping with the Auto-X planning!!! With Mazda and I living well to the North, we couldn't have done it without them. Thanks again, guys.

[Al Navarro]

<strong>!!!PAID REGISTRANTS - YOUR HELP REQUESTED!!!</strong>



Folks-



It has come to my attention that some people may have used secondary email addresses when they paid the event registration fees online (and I can't say I blame you!).



However, note that we updated our initial email list with those email addresses. And I know of at least one paid registrant who did not receive our latest update.



If you would prefer that we use your main email address, please send an email to me ASAP (al@mintadv.com). Also, don't forget to check the spelling of your name in the list that was provided in the email we sent out on Monday, Feb 12th.



Finally, some folks have written inquiring about contact info for other Se7eners in the same state. I will make email information available only to other paid registrants next Monday, Feb 19th. If you would like this information —*OR IF YOU PREFER NOT TO SHARE YOUR EMAIL INFO WITH OTHER PAID REGISTRANTS, please let me know by EOD Friday Feb. 16th.



Best,



Al

[R1 Seven]

Well, I am all the way in now...



My wife made us reservations at Fontana Village today, and I sent my registration fees by PayPal tonight. Make that one more entry from VA and one more Locost to the total. http://www.usa7s.com/aspnetforum/images/emoticons/biggrin5.gif

[Al Navarro]

Thanks to Jeff and the other folks who signed up recently. We are at 58 now...and most of the recent ones are Locost/scratchbuilts!

[solder_guy]

memento: how about a license plate frame with w w w. usa7s. com at the bottom .. and Tail of the Dragon at the top?<edited><editID>solder_guy</editID><editDate>2007-02-24 06:12:06</editDate></edited>

[Al Navarro]

Funny, I was just looking through a Premiums catalog and thought a license plate bracket would be a good USA7s Club item. "My other car is a Se7en" and all that.



Here's a short list of what I'm thinking so far (still have to price it all out):



Tshirt

Dash/Window Decal

Pen/Pad set (for jotting down rendezvous times/places, people's names, etc.)

Key chain (only if I can get a nice one)

License Plate bracket

Water Bottle

Pin (Event specific)

Lanyard & ID holder



I'll start getting pricing on all of this to see where we end up.



Oh, and I'm also looking into a baesbal cap, which will probably have to be a la carte given our memorabilia budget.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Again, I have to price everything out - but I think enough people would spring for a hat if we had it for sale in July.<edited><editID>Al Navarro</editID><editDate>2007-02-24 11:38:06</editDate></edited>

[Al Navarro]

http://www.usa7s.com/forum/uploads/20070307_094620_fontana_dam_7.jpg



This photo will be explained shortly.<edited><editID>Al Navarro</editID><editDate>2007-03-07 09:46:50</editDate></edited>

[Al Navarro]

<strong>!!!Monthly Organizers Update - March!!!</strong>



The Monthly Email was sent out earlier today. For Paid Registrants, it included a revised working (ie. it may change) Schedule of Events for July 6, 7, and 8 2007.



Paid registrations continue to flow in, and we’re now at 65 drivers and 113 total attendees. With the exception of one Europa, all Se7ens so far — including a few original Lotus Series 2 cars added just this week! To date, 29 brave souls have signed up for the Auto-X scheduled for Sunday.


[I DELETED THE DAM PHOTO ABOVE AFTER SPEAKING WITH THE TVA...WE WILL NOT BE ABLE TO FILL THAT LITTLE TEARDROP SHAPED LOT AND WILL USE THE GRASSY AREA ON THE SIDE OF THE ACCESS ROAD INSTEAD.]

<edited><editID>Al Navarro</editID><editDate>2007-03-08 09:27:12</editDate></edited>

[powderbrake]

The dam is in a strange neighborhood, the trees grow downwards

[DeanG]

Oh the pressure. Engine is out. Transmission is out. Hope we can make the meet with a working car.

[slngsht]

mine will soon have a front suspension redesign, and axle change, but at least my engine and tranny are staying in place. Between the two of us, we'll have a complete car - or 2 incomplete cars http://www.usa7s.com/aspnetforum/images/emoticons/smile5.gif

[Al Navarro]

Dean-We will push your car up the hill to and through the Dragon, if that's what it takes!

http://www.usa7s.com/aspnetforum/images/emoticons/hurray.gif

[Al Navarro]

A reminder to all paid registrants...don't forget to send me your contact info by this Friday, March 16th. I'm working on updating the database and want to make sure we have everyone entered correctly.



Thanks to the many folks who've already shot me an email.

[DeanG]

If our 7 is on 4 wheels we will bring it! In that case I will need help pushing!

[slngsht]

I'll add a hitch to my seven and pull you up and down the dragon if necessary http://www.usa7s.com/aspnetforum/images/emoticons/wink5.gif

[locostv8]

Al, Mazda

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;I would like to suggest the possibility of a non competing participant. I am in the process of building but don't know if the 7 will be finished by then so didn't feel right about registering as a compeditor when there might not be a car to compete in. 7/7 is our anniversery and my non car person wife is interested in going for the weekend.

Jim



???

[slngsht]

Jim, the only competitive part of the event is the autocross, which is an optional event with its own seperate fee. Only about half the participants are going to that. By the way, even the autocross is not limited to Sevens, as the local SCCA will have some of their own cars there.



The rest of the weekend is just for get-togethers and just cruising public roads, which you can do in any car.

[Al Navarro]

Folks-



Thanks to everyone who sent me their up to date contact info and hotel/guest updates. I have been very busy with new business at work (leaving in minutes for another pitch), but will finalize the 7-7-7 database between now and Sunday...look for an email early next week. Also, note that there will probably be 2 "Organizer Updates" in April...one brief one before I head down to Tail of the Dragon for a final recon, and one when I get back.



A reminder that we still have about 12 open slots for 7-7-7 and that the final date to sign up is May 7th. There are a few folks (like Dennis B.) whom I'm fairly certain are coming, but who have not signed up yet. If you know anyone who fits into this category, please let them know about the May 7th deadline....it would be great to get 77.7 cars — a number that would rival the 2005 USA Tour.



-Al



P.S. We received a bunch of info regarding the 7-7-7 Auto-X recently. Hopefully Mazda will post that soon. Thanks again to Bill and Marcy Power, our Se7eners on the ground in nearby Knoxville (well, nearer than MD or NJ!).<edited><editID>Al Navarro</editID><editDate>2007-03-28 08:53:07</editDate></edited>

[Al Navarro]

Folks-



FYI, I just sent out the updated 7-7-7 Database. Please check your email and get back to me with any corrections/questions/clarifications.



If you are a paid registrant and did not receive anything from me today, shoot me an email too.



I will be out for most of the day today.



-Al

[Al Navarro]

<strong>!!!7-7-7 Auto-X Info!!!</strong>



Bill Power forwarded this info from the Auto-X organizers/sponsoring SCCA chapter:



The course we will run is the one shown below with a few modifications (improvements). One is to remove a little pain on one of the turns in the back. The course map from last year is shown at the bottom of this post. Some of the cones shown on the drawing will be removed as they are not necessary and just add to the visual clutter.



Date: Sunday July 8, 2007.

Location: William Blount High School http://www.etrscca.org/directions/wbhs.html&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;To get to the autocross venue from the intersection of 129 and 28 (Crossroads of Time) head north on 129 until reaching Hwy 411.

Turn right on 411 and travel 1.8 miles.



We highly recommend you arrive before 9:00 a.m.



The course should be set up so you can walk it around 9:00 a.m.



If you register online, you have until 11:00 a.m. to check in with Registration. [I WANT TO CHECK WITH MAZDA WHETHER USA7S WILL BE HANDLING THE PRE-REG. IF SO, WE MAY HAVE TO CONTACT YOU REGARDING MOTOR SIZE AND/OR VEHICLE WEIGHT]



If you register on-site ($45 plus lunch) , you should do so by 10:00 a.m. If you register after that time, you will be charged a $15 late fee.



No registrations or check-ins will be accepted after 11:00 a.m.



Tech will also close at 11:00 a.m.



If you have not registered and been tech'd by 11:00 a.m., you will not be able to run the event, No Exceptions.



Mandatory driver's meeting at 11:30 a.m. sharp.



First Car Off at 12:00 noon. (There is a church nearby.)



Entry number cap: 7’s entries will be capped at 65.



Helmets: Required to wear a Snell 95 or later SM or SA certified helmet. ETR (Eastern Tennessee Region...the sponsoring chapter) will have loaners available. DOT certifications are not recognized.





Insurance waiver: Everyone on site will be required to sign an insurance waiver, driver or spectator (same as all SCCA Solo events).



Workers: For these events to work, everyone will also have a work assignment when their run group is not active. We will have experienced autocrossers with all of the novices if they are assigned to shagging cones.



Car Numbers: Numbers and class need to be on both sides and readable at a distance when the car is on course. Painters tape or drafting tape of a color contrasting with the car color works, or numbers on paper taped to the car (not good in the rain). We will have materials at the event. Choose your number when registering on MyAutoEvents.com. Duplicates are obviously not allowed. Do not register in the “Pro indexed class”. We will use this for ETR drivers.



Technical inspection: All cars will have to pass the standard SCCA Solo tech inspection. Tech will close at 11:00 am. Be prepared by having all loose items removed from the car including the drivers side floor mat, car un-locked, hood and rear hatch open. Some tech items:



Tires should have no cord showing

Brakes – Fluid at proper level and firm pedal

Seat belts in good operating condition

No excessive fluid leaks

Wheel bearings, shocks, suspension and steering in good condition

Throttle return action safe and positive

All wheel lugs present and tight

Hub caps and wheel rings removed



Cars will be classed according to the SCCA Solo rules. Choose your class when registering on MyAutoevents.com.



PAX (RTP) index will be used to determine overall winner



No smoking in grid area



Please respect the site, pick up after yourself, and leave it in better shape than when you arrived. We want to be able to use the site in the future. Some links of interest:



ETR FAQ’s (some info relevant, some not): http://www.etrscca.org/soloii/etrfaq.html



Novice Handbook: http://www.etrscca.org/soloii/handbook/handbook.htm



PAX (RTP) Index http://www.etrscca.org/soloii/other/rtp.html



SCCA rule book for those with too much time on their hands http://www.scca.com/_FileLibrary/File/2007SoloRules.pdf

[slngsht]

#7 is now taken http://www.usa7s.com/aspnetforum/images/emoticons/smash.gif

[scottgib]

It seems I left out the registration link in my e-mail to Bill.



http://www.myautoevents.com/pls/mae/frmEventDetail.Show?psevent_id=6988&psrnd=.7556811563444495584530643303185690072





Scott Gibson

ETR Solo Chair

<edited><editID>scottgib</editID><editDate>2007-03-31 18:14:39</editDate></edited>

[Al Navarro]

Okay...so "777" is now taken too. (77 is probably still available!)



After some discussion with Mazda, we are asking that everyone who signed up for the 7-7-7 Auto X (actually on July 8th!) please sign up yourself using the link provided above by Scott Gibson (of our host SCCA chapter...the Eastern Tennesee Region).



The form asks for your age, car color, car and number preferences (top 3)...none of which we have on file. So instead of asking you then inputting them ourselves, we ask you to take this step yourselves. You do not have to pay when you register online...USA7s will pay in bulk for everyone who chose the autocross option when paying for the entire event.



I did have a question when it came to car class...the Lotus 7 and 7a (?) are listed in C Stock. I don't know if the Caterham Superlight R falls into this category, so put my car into D Mod. Mazda and his massive motored machine are in EMod.



Here is some info on classes from Scott G.'s original email:



·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;MODIFIED PRODUCTION-BASED CARS - Classes DM and EM contain production-based cars which are permitted additional modifications beyond those allowed in Prepared classes CP through GP. The following chassis are approved as clones of the Lotus 7 and are eligible for competition in DM and EM as modified production-based cars: Caterham Super 7, Birkin, Locost 7, Rotus Seven, Stalker V6, Laminar Concepts Viking, Westfield, WCM Ultralite, Sabre Seven.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Modified Class D - Modified Production and GT cars with engine displacement 2000cc and under. Minimum weight - 1280 lbs. Minimum weight when utilizing four-wheel drive - 1480 lbs. The 12A Mazda and 13 B Rotary engines are permitted in D Modified with the following restrictions: 1. No replacement of cast iron engine case segments with aluminum. 2. On the 12A engine, only side and rotor housings from 1974 to 1986 engines shall be used. 3. No replacement of 12A or 13B sections such as side plates with those from other series engines, i.e. Renesis type parts. 4. On 12A engines, no peripheral porting or J-porting is allowed. Bridge porting that does not cut into the water o-ring is permitted. On 13B engines, 4 and 6-port: Maximum porting permitted is street porting. No bridge porting, J-Porting, or peripheral porting.

·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Modified Class E - Modified Production and GT cars as follows. Minimum weight - 1700 lbs. Minimum weight when utilizing four wheel drive - 2000 lbs.



----



They are not really enforcing the classes for our Auto-X since it's basically a single car type event...we'll have to invent our own categories, I guess...perhaps a good way to sort out an LSiS-specific set of classes?



If you are in doubt and have a motor 2 liters or less, pick DMod. Larger than 2 liters, EMod.<edited><editID>Al Navarro</editID><editDate>2007-04-02 13:59:38</editDate></edited>

[slngsht]

SCCA has its own class definitions, but for bragging rights, what do you all say we just have 2 classes: Slicks, and DOT tires?

[powderbrake]

SCCA has its own class definitions, but for bragging rights, what do you all say we just have 2 classes: Slicks, and DOT tires?



I registered in D mod, as #1, if we only have dot and slick classes, I will run in DOT, as I have street tires.

[Al Navarro]

Folks-



I'm going to start a new thread in the AutoX area regarding 7-7-7 AutoX and classes...just so that it doesn't get lost.



-Al

[Al Navarro]

<strong>!!! MONTHLY ORGANIZERS UPDATE - APRIL!!!</strong>



The first of what will be a few April update emails has been sent out to anyone who is a paid registrant of the event, as well people who signed up on the initial "hand-raising" registration page.



Please check your email boxes for it! Note that a second brief email was sent out confirming the identity of the journalist from Hemmings who has committed to covering the event.



After I return from Robbinsville, I will surely have more updates for this month!<edited><editID>Al Navarro</editID><editDate>2007-04-09 10:12:29</editDate></edited>

[Al Navarro]

<strong>!!!Live from Tapoco Lodge!!!</strong>

First of all, although quite rustic (no TV or phone in room), Tapoco is very nice and charming. Since we visited it last Nov., the greenery has naturally filled out and it's quite pretty.



Well, it rained like heck yesterday, so we took the opportunity to go to the Biltmore, which I think is still a good bet for a rainy day contingency plan during 7-7-7. The way there is still interesting enough and you're not on Route 40 until the very end. And the towns of Waynesville and Sylva on the way back are very charming and have good grub too.



I will inquire about getting permission to shoot the cars at the Biltmore (again, this is just a rain contingency plan....however I would totally recommend as a Sunday trip for non Auto-Xers who do not feel like spectating). Adult admission with audio tour was about $54. Worth it though, IMHO. It takes about 1 hour 45 minutes to get there...tour takes about 2 hours. Route there or back can use Blue Ridge, although it was fogged over something fierce when I was on it, so I got off as soon as I could.



Driving a few good alternate routes today...Route 28 to Franklin and Wayah road...



<edited><editID>Al Navarro</editID><editDate>2007-04-17 13:49:34</editDate></edited>

[Al Navarro]

<strong>!!!Live from Tapoco Lodge!!!</strong>

Had a really great day today. Went down to Franklin via Wayah Road and back via 28. I will definitely be doing that drive on Saturday 7/7 after our group pic. Franklin's not as charming as Sylva or Waynesville, but very serviceable...and the roads make it worthwhile.



Also stopped by Ron & Nancy Johnson's to drop off a very belated thank you gift for the dinner they hosted for Mazda and I back in November. Stopped by Fontana Village too, very nice and more modernized than Tapoco...larger too. If we were trying to throw an event the size of LOG, perhaps it would be a better choice, but I like the intimacy of Tapoco for our meet. Hope you all agree come July! I think everyone who is reserved at Fontana will be very happy with their choice of housing - just remember that it's about 25 minutes away from Tapoco, so leave time before our rendezvous.



What else...had a good meeting with Marsha Cody of Tapoco to finalize a few minor details. Our event is the same weekend as a water release on the Cheoah River...so it will be crowded at the resort on Saturday and Sunday during the day - thankfully when we'll be out driving.



Tomorrow, I'll hit the Foothills Parkway on the way back to NJ.

[Al Navarro]

<strong>!!!Live from New Jersey!!!</strong>

Damn, that's one hell of a long drive to pull in a single day! Got home about 30 minutes ago after leaving Tapoco around 9 AM. A few stops for meals and breaks, after all, the kids have to eat once in a while! (Mazda, without planning to, we stopped at that mall where you and I had Chinese food on the way home in Nov.)



Just a few points for now...Foothills Parkway is a very nice scenic drive...more like Skyline Drive in Shenandoah or the Blue Ridge Parkway. Speed limit 45, and I only saw one motorcycle cop.



Since I passed through today, I would advise everyone to stay as far away from Sevierville/Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg area (Route 441) if you can...traffic was TERRIBLE, even on this weekday. We took the Foothills off the Dragon intending to intersect with 40 east of Knoxville. Ate up a lot of time in traffic and at lights getting through Seviervile (reminded me a lot Myrtle Beach, with same mini-golf and go-karting attractions, and similar crowds/congestion).



What else...the S2000 meet is this weekend and I saw a few tearing up the Dragon, mostly in control. They stay primarily at Fontana, but one guy was staying at Tapoco, because in his words "I prefer the peace and quiet here". <edited><editID>Al Navarro</editID><editDate>2007-04-15 17:17:57</editDate></edited>

[slngsht]

Hey Al, another marathon drive!



Thanks for the updates http://www.usa7s.com/aspnetforum/images/emoticons/thumbsup.gif

[Al Navarro]

Need a good "Book on Tape" for your drive to and from 7-7-7??



Try "Thirteen Moons", by Charles Fraizer.



Laura (my wife) had received the print version of this novel by the author of "Cold Mountain" and brought it along for reading material. It's a historical novel, set in the Cherokee Nation of the 1800s. So far, Laura has recognized quite a few of the town and area names we visited on our recent trip to Tapoco — including Franklin and Wayah Bald (a mountain).

[Al Navarro]

Was cleaning out my email box today, and found the email below...look at the date — things that you want to happen, happen eventually, I guess!



FWIW, I think I remember more clearly the exact point the conversation that kicked off idea the 7-7-7 meet occured...I'm pretty sure we were talking about how Tail of the Dragon might compare to Skyline Drive, at a scenic overlook - Steve T. definitely brought up the 50th anniversary. Who else was part of that convo...Scott L., Mazda, Ed E., Bart?? Then we picked it up at the bar after our run in with the local constabulary.



While I'm in a nostalgic mood, I want to single out Michael D...who was the very first person to write to me directly back in July 03 when I sent a message to the USA list-serv with the headline "Impatient newbie asks for help..." It'll be good to meet you in person finally, Mr. D!



------ Forwarded Message

From: Al Navarro &lt;al@mintadv.com&gt;

Date: Wed, 28 Sep 2005 12:40:50 -0400

To: &lt;usa@se7ens.net&gt;

Conversation: Tail of the Dragon?

Subject: Tail of the Dragon?



Has anyone here done this fabled route in a Seven? Is is worth going down there? Is overly dangerous?



------ End of Forwarded Message

<edited><editID>Al Navarro</editID><editDate>2007-04-19 15:03:27</editDate></edited>

[Al Navarro]

Just a reminder that the official deadline for registration for the 777 Event is Monday, May 7th.

We're trying to give the organizers enough time to finalize arrangements and not have it be too frantic at the last minute (after all, we are Se7en enthusiasts too!).

-Al

P.S. If you paid for the Auto-X, don't forget to pre-register online using the link above...so far only 1/3 of paid Auto-X registrants have used the ETR SCCA's online form.

[Kitcat]

Misc:

Ditto the comments about Pigeon Forge, Cherokee, Gatlinburg etc. Talk about America gone bad! Wax museums/Gondola rides/salt water taffy and every other possible way of commercializing the countryside. In spite of that, or because of it, it is a hugely popular tourist destination. Travel is like mid-Manhattan on Friday afternoon.

When driving on the little jammed roads leading in an out, people will stop their vehicles in the middle of the road and photograph wildlife (deer/bears, etc.) So you get to stare at the back of an SUV whilst they commune w/nature. Then multiply that times the number of city folks who have never seen a live animal and your 30' trip becomes 2 hours.

Cold Mountain-great novel, so-so movie.

[Bill/Marcy P]

I haven't logged on in sometime. Just reread Al's post from his April visit. LET ME REPEAT. DO NOT EVEN THINK OF GOING TO PIGEON FORGE, GATLINBURG, CHEROKEE, SEVIERVILLE OR ANY PLACE CLOSE. We live in Knoxville and avoid it like the plague. I made the mistake of going to Myrtle Beach ONCE - reminded me too much of the above. It is so sad that in this very beautiful part of the country people have to travel through that trash to get into the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. A word to the wise and all that...

[Bill/Marcy P]

One other thing. A great big thanks to Al and Mazda for all their hard work getting 7-7-7 organized! It's going to be fun!:hurray:

[slngsht]

Mostly Al... My contribution will be to finish my car in time :lol:

:cheers:

[Al Navarro]

:o Aw shucks...

It's been fun seeing it all grow. And of course, I couldn't have done any of it (nor would have I wanted to) were it not for folks like Bill & Marcy, Mazda, Jerry E., the rest of founding club members — not to mention all the forum/club members at large.

FYI, I just sent out the May update. So check your email boxes. Forgot to mention that we were not able to get the 100 octane fuel thing lined up...price would have been about $9/gal. However, we will have Texaco Super Unleaded available at Tapoco, an upgrade from the Regular fuel they generally carry.

[Al Navarro]

[X-post from USA@SE7ENS.NET]

A few points regarding the event...

A) Some folks have emailed with minor changes in plans (adding Auto-X, dropping Auto-X, etc.) We've been handling these requests as they come in.

Please note the following refund policy, which we sent out when you paid:

DUE TO THE SCALE OF THE 7-7-7 MEET, THE REFUND DEADLINE FOR THIS EVENT IS JUNE 7, 2007. YOU MUST NOTIFY USA7S, INC. IN WRITING AND RECEIVE A CONFIRMATION EMAIL/LETTER TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR A REFUND.

We're totally fine with people changing plans, just be sure to get any changes in before June 7 — otherwise we cannot guarantee you a refund. We have to make firm arrangements/commitments and headcounts with vendors, as I'm sure you understand. Refunds will be made by PayPal if applicable or by check.

B) I'm happy to report that there has been a flurry of new sign-ups in the past week or so, which we are handling manually since the migration of USA7s.com to new forum software. I have to look at the numbers (some folks who signed up are in build), but I think we're at about 71 cars...which means there are less than 10 open slots left.

C) I got an email today from someone who signed up on our original "handraising" registration form...but who hasn't gotten any of the monthly updates regarding the costs and schedule.

If you are in a similar situation, please write to Mazda and I directly or visit the appropriate thread at USA7s.com:

http://www.usa7s.com/aspnetforum/Default.aspx?g=posts&t=137

That's about it for now.

-Al

P.S. We're holding elections on 7-7-7 for a new club president and secretary, so if you feel like nominating someone or yourself, find the appropriate thread at USA7s.

[Al Navarro]

[ANOTHER X-POST FROM USA@SE7ENS.NET]

I received an email from someone after sending out my previous message to the list. Here is the exchange:

ME:
>C) I got an email today from someone who signed up on our original
>"handraising" registration form...but who hasn't gotten any of the monthly
>updates regarding the costs and schedule.

HIM:
I might fall in that category. I've gotten some mailings, but I think I've missed others. I'm not sure if I'm still registered or not. I've never paid a registration fee...don't even know how to.

----

FOR CLARIFICATION:
The easy way to know if you are officially signed up for the Event: If you've paid any fees, you are registered. If you have not, you are not.

The original "handraising" registration was set up to get a feeling for how many people we might expect to commit to the event. Back in January, we sent an email out and posted in several places how to pay the reg fees. Note that we are now taking registrations manually, since USA7s.com switched forum software packages.

The good news is that of the original 90 or so folks who raised their hand that they were interested, about 70 have followed through on paying.

[Al Navarro]

An update/request, but mostly a way to wind down after a long week (Jon C. and Mazda may know what I'm talking about) :boxing:

In the last week or so, we've had a few people drop out of the event with about the same number signing up. I somehow think we'll hit our projected ceiling by the time it all rolls around in just a few short weeks.

Here are the things which are on my mind right now...and really, they're not that major:

A) Although we've had a few people drop out of the Auto-X, many of the remaining people still have not gone to the SCCA chapter site to pre-reg:

http://www.myautoevents.com/pls/mae/frmEventDetail.Show?psevent_id=6988&psrnd=.7556811563444495584530643303185690072

If you still intend on participating, please take the time to pre-reg. Also, if you are not participating, please come out to watch the rest of us go through hundreds of dollars worth of tires and gas! FYI, Maryville is on the way out of town for the folks from the North. Note that with the numbers we have, we'll be able to get in lots of runs and perhaps still end early enough to have a blat back down in the Robbinsville area. Still looking for someone to coordinate a dinner meet up (in town or perhaps at Fontana?).

B) Not everyone has supplied T-shirt sizing. If you are a paid registrant, you get a t-shirt (final design TBD, my art director is at the Nurburgring...no, seriously), and if you ordered any extra memorabilia packs, those include one too. So, regardless of whether you specified a size in the past — take the time in the next week or so to drop me an email with the subject line "Dragon Tshirt Size" and your desired sizes in the body of the email.

If I don't hear from everyone, we will print some additional XL ones, and take orders at the meet for exact sizing for anyone who wants something smaller — though this means you won't be sporting the USA7s at the Dragon flair that weekend.

THANKS TO YOU ALL FOR YOUR INTEREST AND SUPPORT OF THE EVENT. AND TO THE SERVICEMEN AND WOMEN OF THE US. Enjoy the long weekend.

[slngsht]

An update/request, but mostly a way to wind down after a long week (Jon C. and Mazda may know what I'm talking about) :boxing:




Serious

[Al Navarro]

A few more points to ponder...

Looking for a few folks to be "route buddies" (don't call 'em "drive leaders" what ever you do!) for both Friday and Saturday...would be best if you were familiar with the area or coming in thursday to do recon for yourself.

Also was able to secure a sponsor for the "farthest traveled" and "farthest driven" awards...the winners will receive a very special "driving shirt" from my friends at groupe1620.com. Finalizing a very special sponsorship of the welcome receptions, details TBD.

[Al Navarro]

Slots in North Carolina?

Here's a preview of the Ninco Rally set we'll have set up at the meet. Note that the actual layout is much larger than what I'm showing here, and like the Dragon has both increasing and decreasing radius turns. On the second photo, you can see the timing "bridge" as well as the scale of the cars (that's a quarter on the track). I'm bringing two Ninco Renault Rally cars as well as 2 Se7ens from another mfg.

http://www.usa7s.com/aspnetforum/upload/1400239000_IMG_1537.jpg

http://www.usa7s.com/aspnetforum/upload/1725038238_IMG_1538.jpg

[slngsht]

make sure the sevens are faster than the renaults :D

[Al Navarro]

!!!ONE MONTH TO GO!!!

To make it easier to get the message out to everyone, I'm posting an interim MONTHLY UPDATE here instead of sending a long bulk email. Everyone who paid a registration fee (as well as a few who merely raised their hand a while back, and the handful of folks who have dropped out) will get a brief email directing them here.

Minor admin details first:

1. If you have not sent me your T-shirt size by now, you will get an XL or the option to order another size at the meet.

2. If you have not pre-registered for the Sunday Auto-X, but have paid and intend to participate, please click on this link and pre-register:

http://www.myautoevents.com/pls/mae/frmEventDetail.Show?psevent_id=6988&psrnd=.7556811563444495584530643303185690072

Cancellations and Openings:

There are 8 parties who have officially withdrawn from the event for one reason or another. Meaning we received an email from you and sent you a confirming email.

Not too bad, really...and a few new folks have thrown their hat into the ring. So our overall numbers are about the same. Note that the June 7th refund deadline has officially passed — any cancellations from now until the event are non-refundable.

Just so that everyone knows where they stand, here is a list of the people who have withdrawn from the event:

Fred S.
Skip C.
Bernie L.
James W.
Bob R.
Sal F.
Mitch L.
Steve W.

If your name is not on that list and you thought you had withdrawn and waiting for a refund, please write to both Mazda and I for clarification. Likewise, if your name is on that list and you still intend on being there, let us know.

Here are the folks who have withdrawn from just the Auto-X:

Michael D.
Jim G.
Cherik B.
Graeme G.
Rob M.

Again, if you feel there is an error, please write to Mazda and I.

Finally, I want to say that just because your car is not ready or running does not mean you shouldn't come to the event. While we would like to have as many LSiS vehicles there as possible, the camaraderie and networking is worth coming for, IMHO. And I'm sure there will be plenty of opportunities to grab some passenger seat time from fellow Se7eners.

So if you are still intersted in coming, whether you had paid and withdrawn or are just finding out about the event and want in, here's what you should do:

1. Call to find a room for at least Friday and Saturday nights. Tapoco, Fontana, MicroTel, or any other place in the Robbinsville area.

2. Send an email to Mazda and I, Mazda will tell you how to pay. A reminder that the cost for 1 individual is $100, including memorabilia, insurance, and 3 meals (Friday Dinner, Saturday Breakfast, Saturday Dinner). Additional Memorabilia and Meal Packs are available.

That's about it...things are really coming together and rain or shine, it promises to be a fun event for all Se7en enthusiasts.

[stevet]

The latest edition of 'Automobile' magazine (July) has an article of the Audi A8 on the dragon (steady, Al). Page 120. Enjoy.

[Al Navarro]

Steve, my brother just called me with the same message. I think that R8 was down there when I was in April...some bikers who were staying at Tapoco told us about it and also, that was the S2000 weekend, apparently they are mentioned/shown in the pix.

The only question is...where will we go next that has the same concentration of twisties? BTW...I think I was able to score the club a loaner Digital recorder and lipstick cam for the event. We'll have to make sure to capture some of the drives for posterity.

[slngsht]

Rt 33 on the way to Snow Shoe, WV has some awesome runs. Higher speed switchbacks with alot of 180 degree turns mixed in. It is probably not suitable as the next "big" event, but for some of us in the midatlantic, it'll be great. I'm thinking early fall.

[Al Navarro]

make sure the sevens are faster than the renaults :D
I'm keeping the Se7ens in the boxes...who knows, they might make good prizes at the event! :)

For the record, I just ran a few laps with my old Scalextric Panoz LMP racer and beat my best time with either of the Renaults by a pretty wide margin. Better throttle response and "aerodynamics" (stronger magnets).

[Al Navarro]

Some recent good news and other things to note:

A) I think that the Organic Racing "One Lap" car is going to make an appearance courtesy of Kevin B., Loren's co-driver in that crazy endurance event. Thanks for stepping up Kevin, I know a lot of folks who are going to want to see that supercharger!

B) The Tamiya JPE model is done and will be at the event. However, instead of giving it away as a prize for something, we are thinking of raffling it off — with proceeds split between club and perhaps the local EMS/Sherriff. Would love know what people think (and what's a fair ticket cost?). In the end, I personally felt that everyone should have a shot at taking this great model home, and not just people with the "nicest" Se7en (whatever that might mean). Thanks again to Bill and Marcy Power for their efforts on the model.

C) In a similar "support the locals" vein, it might be nice to have a food pantry drive at the event. Even one can or box of nonperishable food per car would be welcome, and I found a pantry in the area who would appreciate it. Don't stress about it when you're packing, you could even pick up something from the grocery store in Robbinsville.

D) In a leap of faith, we ordered some logo'd baseball caps. Black with silver 7-tail icon. They'll go for about $15, and are first come first-served (we can always order some more if the demand is high).

E) PLEASE KEEP IN MIND that the Friday night "car show" was intended to be totally casual and not something that anybody should lose sleep over "entering" or preparing for. If you are a paid event attendee, you're entered. It's just a nice way to meet people and cars up close, and make use of the space at Tapoco.

I'm just two weeks away from starting my trek down to the Dragon. Looking forward to meeting all of you.

-Al

[slngsht]

TWO WEEKS!!

:willy::willy::willy::willy:
:willy::willy::willy::willy:
______:willy::willy:
_____:willy::willy:
____:willy::willy:
___:willy::willy:
__:willy::willy:
:willy::willy:
:willy::willy:
------------------------------------------

[Al Navarro]

Some more prizes came in...from my friends at Groupe1620 and Seize sur Vingt in NYC.

An incentive for those of you traveling/driving for far off...these guys frequently top the "Best of NYC" reviews in New York Magazine (one of the owners is a friend from college):

http://www.usa7s.com/aspnetforum/upload/284580314_Traveled-Driven.jpg

[stevet]

Extra large please, Al :d

[Al Navarro]

They are 17 x 35 and 17 x 37...exchangable for any size, natch.

But you're going to have to get to the Dragon via California to snatch either from some of the other attendees....:cheers:

[Al Navarro]

FYI, From TailoftheDragon.com website:

BULLETIN: Two motorcycle fatalities in area on Saturday. Neither was on the Dragon.
A VRod rider was killed in a head-on collision with a car on US129 near TN336. He was passing other bikes in a no passing zone and met his fate at the crest of a hill. The Daily Times of Maryville got the location right, but the much larger Knoxville News report the death as occurring on the Tail of the Dragon even though it was some 14 miles distant. Do you believe everything you hear and read in the news? Also let it be known that there are more motorcycle deaths on other roads in Blount County than on the Dragon.
The second death occurred on the Cherohala just on the North Carolina side. This sportbike rider was new in the seat and fixated on a low side by the rider in front of him. He went off the road and struck a tree. We reiterate that the Cherohala is more dangerous that the Dragon. Please slow down wherever you ride.

The Tennessee Highway Patrol had three cars on the Dragon late Saturday afternoon and they stayed until 9 pm. Sunday there were four there most of the day. It seems they focused on the extreme riders only. This is probably a reaction to the death on Saturday even though it was 14 miles away. We believe that enforcement will be stepped-up along US 129 so be warned to watch your speeds from US411 through the residential sections and along the Little Tennessee River all the way to the Dragon.

[Al Navarro]

One of my last posts before the big old event....

Folks - Wow, I can't believe I'm just one week away from pulling into Tapoco to start set up for USA7s at the Dragon. A week away from having breakfast at Mrs. Rowe's with old friends and new en route. If I don't stop waxing lyrical, I might even get misty about it all.

I wanted to let you know that I'll pretty much be offline starting tomorrow. I took all of next week off, and am starting my trip down on July 3rd (someone's thirty-somethingth birthday, btw). Like many registrants, I'm getting in Thursday early evening. Was thinking of going into town (mexican or bbq) for dinner, but perhaps will just settle into Tapoco and start the set up process. If you're around, please come by and find me or one of the other co-organizers to introduce yourself and perhaps lend a hand if needed.

FWIW, I just visited the weather.com site and here's the forecast:

Fri
Jul 6
Partly Cloudy
87°/61°
20% chance of precip

Sat
Jul 7
Mostly Sunny
86°/59°
10% chance of precip

:hurray:

What else...oh, I'm happy to announce that Manik, LLC - the Westfield distributor for the US - has stepped up to sponsor the opening Welcome reception on Friday afternoon. Much thanks to Tom M.! Westfield dealer Doug B. will be bringing the just registered Westfield/Miata (the one that was at Carlisle) to the festivities. You might not know this, but it's actually the 25th Anniversary of Westfield (those cheeky monkeys)...really, thanks again guys.

In other news, Dick Brink of Texas Motor Works is going to donate some items to the Club for raffle/auction - he mentioned a "7" belt buckle that I'm sure will be most coveted. Dick will also join the swap meet with some parts and other odds and ends. Thanks Dick & Lynn!

Some of the materials and memorabilia have started to arrive too.

Like this Pencil (a pen might explode if left in car during summer heat):

http://www.usa7s.com/aspnetforum/upload/1407178510_Pencil.jpg

And these name badges (decided against a fancy lanyard for cost reasons...does anyone really keep/reuse those lanyards?):

http://www.usa7s.com/aspnetforum/upload/674833831_Badge.jpg


(Billy Joe is the creative director on the art side here at Mint.)

[slngsht]

Al = Superman

[Al Navarro]

Aw shucks. :o

[powderbrake]

I like the badge, it will help a lot if everone wears theirs so I can put some names and faces together. I need repetition and reinforcement to remember the names. ( My wife says I leave the house with a clean slate each morning)
The pencil is a good idea as well. Good job Al.

[Al Navarro]

More swag arrived via brown truck today...I guess I could have had it shipped down, but wanted to make sure it was a-ok before showing up in NC.

All this and a t-shirt and a few other items for $20? What a bargain! (hope you all agree)

I have to say that getting my art direction (I'm a copywriter by trade) act together in time for patches was not possible. And stickers require crazy quantities...though there is one surprise waiting.

BTW, the decision to go with Club branding and not event branding is due to the minimum quantities...let's just say the PNW2007 folks will benefit from our order.

And yes, the bottle is polycarb (like Nalgene bottles). Little spiral pad (for jotting down FTDs and names of new friends) has zip pocket for receipts and registration/insurance card.

http://www.usa7s.com/aspnetforum/upload/2059153323_Swag.jpg

[Al Navarro]

This is not the surprise.

There will be a limited number of these hats available at 7-7-7, first come first served basis. Although we could order another batch if there is enough interest. I happen to like the retro look of the white stitching contrasted with the modernish logo (in silver).

http://www.usa7s.com/aspnetforum/upload/1895184182_Hat.jpg

[stevet]

:cool:

[Al Navarro]

For HRK and anyone who would like to come to 7-7-7 but has not registered or paid...an updated schedule of events follows below.

To register & pay, please arrive at Tapoco on Friday July 6, 2007 between Noon and 4 PM. The Club will be accepting only cash and checks for fees and memorabilia during the event. The Club reserves the right to limit registrations — which will be handled on a first-come first served basis. (If you've already paid, you're in...don't worry.)

---------

USA7s at the Dragon Event Schedule (July 6-8, 2007)

All asterisked items will be held at Tapoco Lodge.

Friday — July 6th

12 Noon – 5:00 PM
Open Registration (Main Lodge Building)*
Open Driving Time/Registrant Rendezvous
Open Slot Car Track (Main Lodge Building)*

4:00 – 5:30 PM
Opening Reception sponsored by Westfield*
Meet & Greet/Car Show Prep*

5:30 – 7:00 PM
Informal Car Show/Casual Dinner*

7:30 – 9:00 PM
“Introduction to the Tail of the Dragon”
Presentation (Location TBD)*

9:00 – 10:00 PM
Regional Roundtables (Location TBD)*

10:00 – Midnight
Movie Screening, “Grand Prix” (Quonset Hut)*
Networking*
Slot Car Track/Main Lodge Closes at 11 PM

Saturday — July 7th
6:00 AM
Early Bird Drive Rendezvous (Crossroads)

7:00 AM
Slot Car Track Opens (Main Lodge Building)*

7:00 – 8:00 AM
Marque-Specific Roundtables (Location TBD)*

8:00 – 9:00 AM
Breakfast Buffet (Main Lodge Building)*

9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Open Driving Time/Registrant Rendezvous

4:00 PM
Group Photo Shoot Rendezvous (Fontana Dam)

4:15 – 5:30 PM
Group Photo

6:00 PM
Slot Car Track “Qualifying” Ends
(Main Lodge Building)*

6:00 – 7:30 PM
BBQ Dinner (Quonset Hut)*

7:30 – 8:00 PM
Club Elections & Awards (Quonset Hut)*

8:00 PM
Slot Car Track Reopens for fun runs

8:00 – 9:30 PM
Builders Roundtable (Quonset Hut)*

9:30 – 10:30 PM
Screening of “The Prisoner” Pilot
(Location TBD)*

10:30 – 12 Midnight
Networking*
Slot Car Track/Main Lodge Closes at 11 PM

Sunday – July 8th
7:30 AM
Auto-Xers Depart for Maryville, TN*

9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Auto-X (William Blount High School)

7:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Non Auto-Xers are welcome to watch the Auto-X or
further explore local roads

7:30 PM
Ad Hoc Dinner/Farewell Party
(MEAL NOT INCLUDED IN REG. FEE, SITE TBD)

[Mutt]

Unfortunately, the Asheville Cat is not going to be on the road for the Sevens at the Dragon. Oh, well. I can quit obsessing about clutch parts. Mary and I will be there, however, along with James and the 88th Series One built.

Mutt

[Al Navarro]

Good news/bad news there Mutt.

See you all very soon. Thanks for everything everyone!

[Al Navarro]

Well, the event programs are done. :hurray:

Now I just need to fit it all in the tow vehicle.:cry:

[stevet]

You need one of these Al...

[stevet]

Doh, remember to upload image :banghead:

http://www.usa7s.com/aspnetforum/upload/1072373949_road train060.jpg

[andrew7]

Hi Al, everything looks great. My head would have been spinning getting everything organized.:crazy:

I have 1 stupid question to ask, I'm planning my routing down to the Dragon and started to think, Is there local road maps in the event planner?:confused: I was getting ready to print maps out from http://www.tailofthedragon.com/maps.html but wasn't sure if its one of those little overlooked things.

see you in a few days:)

[Al Navarro]

Yes, there are 2 area maps in the program...one of the Dragon and another of the general vicinity, extending from Knoxville area to Asheville and down past Franklin NC a little bit.

There are also all sorts of other Maps available for free when you are down there.

[ce1984]

My dad and I are getting ready to purchase a LSiSC and I'm hoping we might be able to drop by on 777 and check out all the cars and maybe get the kind of input that's hard to garner on internet forums. We'll be crossing through the area on the 7th on the way to my college orientation, and hopefully will be able to stick around for a few hours, say 12-4. Are people going to be around to converse with, or is everyone going to be using every waking hour slaying the dragon? One of the main reasons we're doing this is to clarify whether we really need to order an SV size chassis (obviously we'd rather not if we can manage otherwise). Please let me know if your going to be 'around' during this time so we might be able to have a chat.

Thanks

ce1984

[Boxologist]

from the saturday timetable ur best bet to see everything is the event just after 4pm at the Fontana Dam photo.

[slngsht]

My dad and I are getting ready to purchase a LSiSC and I'm hoping we might be able to drop by on 777 and check out all the cars and maybe get the kind of input that's hard to garner on internet forums. We'll be crossing through the area on the 7th on the way to my college orientation, and hopefully will be able to stick around for a few hours, say 12-4. Are people going to be around to converse with, or is everyone going to be using every waking hour slaying the dragon? One of the main reasons we're doing this is to clarify whether we really need to order an SV size chassis (obviously we'd rather not if we can manage otherwise). Please let me know if your going to be 'around' during this time so we might be able to have a chat.

Thanks

ce1984

I'd think there will be a few cars around during the mid part of the day at least. People will get tired of driving a little bit and will come in to rest during the mid-day.

[scannon]

Hey everyone headed to the 7/7/7 event.

Have a great time and a safe trip. I'm not going to be able to make it but I expect to see lots of photos and videos.

Skip

[slngsht]

Hopefully we can get some type of connectivity there. I will upload nightly.

[Al Navarro]

Folks-

The location of the group photo may be changed. I just got word from Fontana that their ballfield may be available. This would be a lot easier, since apparently the TVA police are gettting very strict about cars and their grass down there. I'm going to discuss it with Darryl Cannon and the other organizers and hsould have resolution by Friday AM.

FWIW, the weather looks like it's going to be true to what locals said might happen...an occasional shower but not constant. Isn't that why you bought the Jill Judd in the first place?

-Al

[slngsht]

Jill who? :jester:

[stevet]

Kate's sister.

[andrew7]

Just a thought, but what about Biltmore house? 70 english cars in front of a castle sounds like it would be a nice picture. The ride out to it could be fun as well.

Who's bringin the tarp for Mazda? Should it be green?:d

[slngsht]

:rofl:

I'll come by myself. They may not let y'all in if I'm with you.

[stevet]

THIS IS AL LOGGING ON FROM STEVE'S HOUSE.

The drive to Biltmore is LONG (4 hours round trip) and a littl eboring just for a photo (IMHO) and you need special permission to park in front and take pix.

I just heard back from Darryl and he thinks the paved parking area down a t the dam should work for us.

---

FYI...A ROOM JUST OPENED UP AT TAPOCO. CALL AND ASK FOR MARSHA IF YOU ARE INTERESTED. TELL THEM YOU'RE WITH THE SEVENS GROUP.

Also, my in laws ran into someone coming to the event from Long Island...I don't recall anyone from out there being registered...maybe we're going to get more Se7ens than we planned?:hurray:

[solder_guy]

Great time at the dragon! Thanks to Al, Mazda and the other organizers for pulling off a great event !! (http://www.usa7s.com/aspnetforum/Default.aspx?g=posts&t=1058)

Rob Mitchell

[slngsht]

Also, HUGE thanks to Bill and Marcy!!!

Bill donated his fantastic work on the model, as well as helped us with the autocross setup.

Marcy did so much work at the registration desk, as well as so many other things.

[David Seybold]

Al:
Thank you again for all your help sending me to the place to get entered in the 7's auto cross on the 8th. I only wish things wernt moving so quickly and my car wasnt overheating so badly. Would have enjoyed talking with you much more. I really enjoyed meeting you and all the 7 guys, and the east Tennessee SCCA guy's. I had a great time and enjoyed the course very much. My daughter just saw my trophy and wants to put it on her Land Rover! I tryed to get to Deals Gap on Sat. but my heating problems and throttle sticking forced me to turn around and head back to the RV park, and to auto zone for parts. I hear you have an event of some sort out my way latter this summer? If so let me know and I'll try to be there. I'll check you web site also.
Thanks again and hope to meet you guy's again real soon, maybe at Nationals?
David Seybold, Espanola New Mexico

[Al Navarro]

David-

Great to meet you, albeit briefly...thanks for showing that Formula Ford what a well prepped, well driven street car can do. I can't imagine what might have been if your car was 100%.

As for the "070707FTD" plate...tell your daughter she has to earn the right to put it on her car!

-Al

[Al Navarro]

NON SEQUITUR/COUNT OUR LUCKY STARS POST:

From TailoftheDragon.com....


Friday July 13, 2007 - Two Florida riders were the second and third fatalities on the Dragon in 2007. According to witnesses the three-wheel Honda crossed the centerline and struck a vehicle towing a boat. The trike was northbound near mile 1.5 near The Wall. US129 was closed for several hours after the 5:30 PM accident while the scene was cleared. Another bike following the trike was also involved, but the rider refused treatment.

---

The pic they have up made my stomach turn. I think this a good reminder of driving within your comfort zone...and how lucky we all were July 6-8...what if one of those trikes had run into a Se7eners. And there was a fatality earlier in the week (after we had left the area). And another good reminder of the needs of the local EMS.

I don't know if I mentioned this, but on Sunday night, while I was giving Nancy Johnson a ride in the Cat, we saw a rider down...right after the TN/NC border sign. Yikes.

[slngsht]

Arya and I almost bought it while coming down to Tapoco saturday morning. I had noticed a noise in the front end and had slowed down to the speed limit - taking it easy coming down from the crossroads. Just as we were going passed a full size Chevy truck (he was coming up the hill), a crotch rocket decided there was plenty of room between our car and the truck to make a pass. I put the right wheels on the white line and prayed for the best. The moron made it through.

You cross the center line, you pay the price. I feel more sorry for the truck/boat owner, and the bike passenger.

[Al Navarro]

Mazda and I had a conference call on Monday night to reconcile the expenses and revenues from the 7-7-7 event and are happy to say that the Club broke just about even — and were able to make a donation of $500 to the local EMS (this is slightly higher than estimated).

Thanks to everyone for your support. I have a few t-shirts and things I have to mail out still...in the next week or so.

[MichaelD]

FYI,

777 was an event I will never forget. Meeting everyone, seeing the cars and driving THE ROAD was one of the most fun events I have ever attended. Many thanks to Al and Mazda.

Since the trip I have been collecting 777 photos for anywhere I can find them. So far I have collected 259 great photos. I guess the goal is to place as many as possible on USB drives or in Power Point and redistribute them to the group or to have them posted on this site for easy download to members. I will talk to Mazda about that.

If you wish to contribute you photos to the cause send them to me:

On line - michael@mjdpc.com

Mail - Michael Dougherty
4910 Edgemoor La.
Bethesda, MD 20814

Thanks for your contribuions.

Michael D.

[DeanG]

The Automobile magazine article starts off "
Mazda Ebrahimi is ruggedly handsome, unfailingly affable, remarkably generous, extraordinarily clever, and certifiably insane..."

http://www.automobilemag.com/features/0711_lotus_seven/index.html

[Kitcat]

Not necessarily in that order:)!

[solder_guy]

I just reread the Automobile magazine article (http://www.automobilemag.com/features/0711_lotus_seven/index.html).. that sure was a fun event! I'm glad I made it .. even though at the time my Rotus was not up for the road yet .. Good thing I made it to Birmingham! Look forward to 2011 too.

Rob

[DeanG]

Reliving the good life.

[DeanG]

Still more to come.

[DeanG]

Sorry, I couldn't photograph everyone. The recycle time of our digital camera made that impossible.

[DeanG]

A few more

[DeanG]

Hope to see you at LOG 30

[DeanG]

A blast from the past gets revived at Jalopnik

http://jalopnik.com/277056/se7en-se7en-oh-my-se7en

[Croc]

Thank you for resurrecting this posting. While I was not there....I wish I was...it looks like it was a great time for everyone.

Another 7 years to the next one?

[Boxologist]

i sensing the Rockies next summer.

[DeanG]

Someone has been playing on the dragon and not sharing

http://killboy.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2010-07-28T06%3A51%3A00-04%3A00&max-results=20

[slngsht]

Nice looking seven

[mac w]

Thanks it was me July 24 08 great time with the Lotus owners here in Atlanta no problem keeping up with the Elises and Exieges