[Nobbc] 10 years old!

Mon Aug 1 10:33:19 MDT 2011

  John,
I stated there is no centralized location for us all, but didn't also 
clarify that there are isolated picnic tables. Thanks.
Greg

On 8/1/2011 9:11 AM, John Kenner wrote:
> I need to correct Greg,
>
> I seem to remember at Fisk Mill Cove there are 3 or 4 picnic tables.
> There is also the walk to the observation point but that is usually after
> we eat at the picnic tables.  Am I wrong?
>
> JOHN KENNER
>
> 510 231 6803 P
> 415 806 2457 C
> 510 231 6805 F
>
>
>
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: nobbc-bounces at autox.team.net [mailto:nobbc-bounces at autox.team.net] On
> Behalf Of Greg Tatarian
> Sent: Monday, August 01, 2011 8:43 AM
> To: nobbc at autox.team.net
> Subject: Re: [Nobbc] 10 years old!
>
>    Folks,
>
> I know Betty's sentiments have been stated by others in the past, and
> it's true - our events are typically pretty much romping drives, often
> with minimal focus on comfortable destinations or extended social events
> or restaurant lunches.To be fair, that is not always the case, as we
> also do make stops at cafes, wineries, and more casual restaurants.
> Being a very loose group, we are pretty spontaneous with our drives.
>
> However, I have also seen greater attendance at our drives that are
> pre-planned, on better roads, and with destinations where we can
> socialize a bit more than at the start of the drive, and sit together
> for lunch. I think that is much of what has made the WCC popular,
> particularly with some of the drivers of cars that are either (use your
> own adjectives) - more sedate/valuable/larger/less sporty, etc.
>
> It's probably safe to say that an NOBBC drive will be less well
> organized, more spontaneous, on somewhat rougher roads, at somewhat
> higher speeds, and with more casual destinations (and at lower cost).
> That actually appeals to many members. But there are also the
> pre-planned events such as Dawson's Valentine's Day drive, drives that
> have ended at John and Julia Kenner's place where we have a wonderful
> BBQ, even one or two of the drives Trish and I have led in the past, as
> well as destination drives thanks to the efforts of other members.
>
> It would be nicer if people like Betty didn't feel excluded from our
> group due to drive experiences that are not to their liking, since NOBBC
> drives really are quite diverse, and there will always be enjoyable
> events for those looking for a bit more comfort at a bit less speed. So,
> I have a proposal:
>
> Whenever possible, perhaps it would be more helpful to communicate our
> ideas for drive routes and destinations ahead of each drive, and do a
> better job of characterizing the road surface/speed/windiness conditions
> ahead of time, so people can decide whether that particular drive is for
> them. For example, I agree with Ron that British cars were designed for
> British roads, but I've spent time in England, and our roads tend to be
> less well maintained, and have more elevational changes, particularly in
> Sonoma and Napa Counties. Ask some of the big Jag owners how happy they
> are about their brakes at the end of some of our steeper routes, for
> just one example.
>
> Let me give it a shot with the route(s) that Ron has tentatively planned
> for the anniversary drive:
>
> The Fisk Mill Cove destination is a rugged, beautiful oceanside picnic
> destination, with a high bluff (windy, cool) observation area where some
> people can eat lunch, but with no centralized location for everyone to
> sit and socialize together. It is a bit of a hillside scramble to the
> bluff, so not appropriate for everyone, or those in nice shoes or
> clothes. It's beautiful, but mostly appreciated by those who like
> outdoor activities.
>
> Meeting at Warm Springs Dam means the drive will appeal most to those
> members in Sonoma County, since it's a bit of a drive to get there, and
> a longish drive to Fisk Mill Cove and back home.
>
> Skaggs Springs Road has some great curves and scenery, but also potholes
> and blind turns, and steep sections. There are some very fast sections,
> which is why it appeals to the fast motorbikes and fast cars.
>
> King Ridge Road is very narrow, slower, more scenic (if that can be
> believed), steeper, and longer, but in my opinion, with a slightly
> better road surface.
>
> Neither route is anywhere near as long as the typical REME drives, which
> last for hours and hours, but it seems most of us with 40-50 year old
> cars don't want to subject ourselves or the cars to long, grueling
> drives that new MINIs take in stride (including myself). Nevertheless,
> it is the anniversary drive, so is intended to be longer, with more
> striking scenery along the way. Be prepared with a full tank of gas,
> brakes in good condition, a good spare tire, tools, warm clothes, and a
> picnic lunch. You might even want to bring a light folding camp chair if
> there's no room at tables.
>
> If this more strenuous drive does not appeal to you, please voice your
> opinion and ideas for other routes and destinations so the NOBBC can be
> more inclusive, and not drive people away.
>
> Best to you all,
> Greg Tatarian
>
>
>
> On 7/31/2011 7:31 PM, Betty Miller wrote:
>> Ron,
>> Truthfully, the last event that we attended was not our cup o'tea.
> Sitting
>> on hard rocks to picnic in the middle of nowhere is not my idea of a fun
>> time.  Perhaps I'm not cut out for your club.
>> Betty
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