tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-85311930751956951252024-02-08T00:56:10.088-05:00William West Hopper's Travels and TalesLet me share with you, my ramblings on cars, places and cool things!William West Hopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731459759270915266noreply@blogger.comBlogger24125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8531193075195695125.post-71067148131196535672016-10-27T09:49:00.001-04:002016-10-27T10:34:07.655-04:00Kalahari Resort, Visit Africa in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9-qJlzXKrh2ryGQmSLIyzxPFPUNFrQNbi-DJzQRFvP4WJ8TzbdO0DleCU6rjAvTKLYWxjaPU2OPU6TZI9Ia0Rlr5yw3aowKQ518bl4ryHedKpjWdhvC0cX7sHG0jpDWl159GWfNUeAo7S/s1600/IMG_0475.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Kalahari Resorts and Convention Sign in the Pennsylvania Poconos." border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9-qJlzXKrh2ryGQmSLIyzxPFPUNFrQNbi-DJzQRFvP4WJ8TzbdO0DleCU6rjAvTKLYWxjaPU2OPU6TZI9Ia0Rlr5yw3aowKQ518bl4ryHedKpjWdhvC0cX7sHG0jpDWl159GWfNUeAo7S/s320/IMG_0475.JPG" title="Kalahari Resorts and Convention Sign in the Pennsylvania Poconos." width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kalahari Resorts & Conventions in the Pocono Mountains</td></tr>
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<i><b>Kalahari Resorts & Conventions have opened a facility in Northeastern Pennsylvania.</b></i><o:p></o:p></div>
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The Poconos, long a destination for outdoor family fun, has now
become even more to attract both leisure and business travelers to the
legendary Pennsylvania mountains.
Kalahari Resorts & Conventions is finishing the next phase of their
recently built resort to include more options in sleeping rooms supporting both
a state of the art convention center, banquet and meeting facility, as well as
a year-round family activity adventure park.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3NvycGx_HiEeqGfoDwG-pJ2QuBJVjKSfy97wRdeL_dzkdHMdJuPrdYqh8nUQpnBF91rwm0YvaTrxOJ4xGoUh-Pep33lcyKj2LRc_1TN1tjbGSXVUg_29XJZB3p7s9-U9csoUczZ2hBfUZ/s1600/IMG_0472.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="African wildlife sculptures on the Kalahari Resort property." border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3NvycGx_HiEeqGfoDwG-pJ2QuBJVjKSfy97wRdeL_dzkdHMdJuPrdYqh8nUQpnBF91rwm0YvaTrxOJ4xGoUh-Pep33lcyKj2LRc_1TN1tjbGSXVUg_29XJZB3p7s9-U9csoUczZ2hBfUZ/s320/IMG_0472.JPG" title="African wildlife sculptures on the Kalahari Resort property." width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plenty of African wildlife sculptures on the<br />
Kalahari Resort property.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsQ2Ve06DvL55bRndnzMOhBfnwN_R1drmGY324FDxzDlQB6gvlETU7LKjExK2xdp7cpE4gXNjlCEyys3Mkgm8CNvPfCSLBRFpMRxgvDBJYxTNCvmxvjY2Kw2vO2cTBjdv-sEufyEGN9qlG/s1600/IMG_0463.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Kalahari Resort Room Signs in the shape of the African continent" border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsQ2Ve06DvL55bRndnzMOhBfnwN_R1drmGY324FDxzDlQB6gvlETU7LKjExK2xdp7cpE4gXNjlCEyys3Mkgm8CNvPfCSLBRFpMRxgvDBJYxTNCvmxvjY2Kw2vO2cTBjdv-sEufyEGN9qlG/s200/IMG_0463.JPG" title="Kalahari Resort Room Signs in the shape of the African continent" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">African themes throughout. </td></tr>
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Kalahari Resorts group opened their African themed 150-acre Pennsylvania
property in 2015, continues to expand with phases opening up now through 2020. Initially
with 456 sleeping rooms straddled in between a 65,000 square foot, full service
convention center on one side and a 100,000 square foot waterpark and family
activity center on the other. While some find the business and the family
leisure focus are conflicting on the same property, Kalahari wants to provide
the opportunity to combine both family fun time and business offerings on the
same property, so that at the end of the business day, a family can re-connect
together.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdfRIbu4i8gYIDr5veJTRLaBFoHRK4iz7obsVVAYelJ5YpA4uYxxduX4HUKGy1MTvMz1FHXVuQ2vI8Hqox9smA87wyffqrW6_XJneLKbaNRCZV5a4K0VMlqud2y-5kg2yyxlWaZgYyNJ5q/s1600/IMG_0459.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Kalahari Poconos doubles their water park to 220 K square feet" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdfRIbu4i8gYIDr5veJTRLaBFoHRK4iz7obsVVAYelJ5YpA4uYxxduX4HUKGy1MTvMz1FHXVuQ2vI8Hqox9smA87wyffqrW6_XJneLKbaNRCZV5a4K0VMlqud2y-5kg2yyxlWaZgYyNJ5q/s320/IMG_0459.JPG" title="Kalahari Poconos doubles their water park to 220 K square feet" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kalahari Poconos will double the size of the water park to 220 K<br />
Square feet all indoors, for year-round fun.</td></tr>
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The property will boast the largest indoor waterpark in
America, with 220K square feet, doubling its present size. With a zip line and
treetop adventure facility opening soon followed by snow tubing and miniature
golf, bringing more family activities as well as opportunities for business
team building, on site.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtvYGh1mFRRUXLhxEB-mVnHNG560KM7Y1nOX63F7o-kkO5UlEW6K3Ki7-VTvP_zxUjYJMbUqqfa49tI7btgZnxclQQoE3uEHtLpMbYevsh4F5DJvxljLDK0TLrHAsHR3EpFjwJ83PRjAUv/s1600/IMG_0452.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Kalahari Resorts has plenty of rooms to accommodate both convention and family events" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtvYGh1mFRRUXLhxEB-mVnHNG560KM7Y1nOX63F7o-kkO5UlEW6K3Ki7-VTvP_zxUjYJMbUqqfa49tI7btgZnxclQQoE3uEHtLpMbYevsh4F5DJvxljLDK0TLrHAsHR3EpFjwJ83PRjAUv/s320/IMG_0452.JPG" title="Kalahari Resorts has plenty of rooms to accommodate both convention and family events" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kalahari Resorts has plenty of rooms to<br />
accommodate both convention and family events.</td></tr>
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Business planners will appreciate the flexibility of having 65,000
sq feet of flexible space, all in one place, from convention floor to ballroom,
reception and board meeting space. A 25,000 square foot exhibit hall that can
be broken into 8 individual spaces, connected to a separate 9K hall that opens
to a covered terrace overlooking the nearby forest and mountains. Add to that
six board and meeting rooms that range in size from 750 to 1500 square feet,
with dedicated grade level access loading dock. All with the internet bandwidth
with speeds up to 100Mb/s with capacity to increase to 1Gbs with advanced
order. State of the art HVAC, lighting and audio visual, and numerous built in
hi-lumen/Hi-Def projectors and monitors. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzjcEMeTeus9RDL5-DcJKS7Q_Zn60jZjXRuSU0bYFwTgHVnflIDsrsKMw65dHIL2x4iCeHu2q6sy8uNk6s7dqc957tTpVSV_5jMY8775j3_MjPX1-2DxFGCtBdhKlt7yiA3DeNqB55qOt5/s1600/IMG_0453.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Wonderful African inspired art is a highlight throughout the Kalahari Resort property." border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzjcEMeTeus9RDL5-DcJKS7Q_Zn60jZjXRuSU0bYFwTgHVnflIDsrsKMw65dHIL2x4iCeHu2q6sy8uNk6s7dqc957tTpVSV_5jMY8775j3_MjPX1-2DxFGCtBdhKlt7yiA3DeNqB55qOt5/s320/IMG_0453.JPG" title="Wonderful African inspired art is a highlight throughout the Kalahari Resort property." width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wonderful African inspired art is a highlight<br />
throughout the Kalahari Resort property.</td></tr>
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Leisure planners will appreciate the family friendly spaces
with activities for the youngest child to the Spa services for adults looking for
a relaxing escape. An activity center set up with everything from a separate
area with child sized chairs and tables to plenty of arcade games, duck pin
bowling and more for the teens. Of course the 200 K sq foot indoor waterpark
with a lazy river, tubes and slides. The full service spa, wellness center and
gym to get mind and body in shape. Outdoors is a seasonal swimming pool and
humongous hot tub that the entire family can enjoy. Then when everyone wants to
get their inner American Ninja going there is the new zip-line and the tree-top
adventures. Toss in 6000 square feet of retail shopping, including a Moroccan
style market place featuring hand-made African items, clothes and more.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDnzT8aE9_BOFoZOA46zJp19dTf_5JLAdltrQfzyAsILx04nPHSk5cKFKTZf16oEo_x1Qvb8I4gm4AaqldvK0R5oKZqgo2cWJqpAiSoUmAJC3vhoRxTqo55P876yeI4pnazpNXc-0qF_Hy/s1600/IMG_0458.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Lots of food and libation options on property at Kalahari Resorts, with more coming soon" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDnzT8aE9_BOFoZOA46zJp19dTf_5JLAdltrQfzyAsILx04nPHSk5cKFKTZf16oEo_x1Qvb8I4gm4AaqldvK0R5oKZqgo2cWJqpAiSoUmAJC3vhoRxTqo55P876yeI4pnazpNXc-0qF_Hy/s320/IMG_0458.JPG" title="Lots of food and libation options on property at Kalahari Resorts, with more coming soon" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots of food and libation options on property at Kalahari<br />
Resorts, with more coming soon</td></tr>
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Wi-Fi in all rooms, meeting, convention and public spaces,
so everyone can stay connected. No one goes hungry, as meal options abound,
with grab & go, buffet and cafeteria to white table cloth fine dining
options, all on site, with more coming as Kalahari continues building.</div>
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<a href="https://www.kalahariresorts.com/pennsylvania"><b>https://www.kalahariresorts.com/pennsylvania</b></a></h2>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrzXbqLBFrcEtQ963EeBSQ3DXH4vLkGcASjoB6Hy9zv_EJEoQ1Y4EgSMqUKhyphenhyphenaHKnWCg_burM6TE8Le79AmVoR9ZbNXzNI1fw6yEPM6tOyMj6Jp2JymsckZRjmWkaaoqOv1IkBcS-PBntn/s1600/IMG_0447.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Kalahari's Desert room features two queen beds and a pullout sofa in a large room space for the entire family to stay." border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrzXbqLBFrcEtQ963EeBSQ3DXH4vLkGcASjoB6Hy9zv_EJEoQ1Y4EgSMqUKhyphenhyphenaHKnWCg_burM6TE8Le79AmVoR9ZbNXzNI1fw6yEPM6tOyMj6Jp2JymsckZRjmWkaaoqOv1IkBcS-PBntn/s320/IMG_0447.JPG" title="Kalahari's Desert room features two queen beds and a pullout sofa in a large room space for the entire family to stay." width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kalahari's Desert room features two queen beds and a pullout<br />
sofa in a large room space for the entire family to stay.</td></tr>
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Want to try a taste of Kalahari, and you have a <a href="https://www.groupon.com/" target="_blank">Groupon account?</a> Kalahari has a <a href="https://www.groupon.com/deals/ga-bk-kalahari-resorts-conventions-poconos-7" target="_blank">Groupon available at the moment. A $149 per night in the Desert Room,</a> their basic room with two
queen beds and a pull out queen sleeper sofa, includes the room that sleeps<span style="background: white; color: #333333;"> four with $50 arcade credit per night
and waterpark admission; dates into December. Additional waterpark passes (2)
may be added at check in for $35 each, (normal water park admission is $79 per
day.) </span></div>
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<b><i>Words and images by William West Hopper</i></b><br />
<i><b>Note:</b> Kalahari Resorts and Conventions hosted</i><br />
<i>my trip to their Pocono PA property, covering</i><br />
<i>lodging, travel and meals for this review trip.</i></div>
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<o:p></o:p>William West Hopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731459759270915266noreply@blogger.com0Kalahari Blvd, Pocono Summit, PA 18346, USA41.1025239 -75.38413650000001141.0965414 -75.394221500000015 41.1085064 -75.374051500000007tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8531193075195695125.post-27140299273742567612016-05-23T19:12:00.002-04:002016-05-23T19:12:27.819-04:00Post Transformers, a Daylong Technology Conference - An opportunity to hear from leading voices on a variety of topics designed to provide a more educated vision of the world around us.<div class="MsoNormal">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Washington Post Transformers Conference May 18, 2016.</td></tr>
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Post Transformers, a daylong Technology Conference at
Washington Post Headquarters in Washington DC. Here was an opportunity to hear from leading voices from a number of high tech industries on
a variety of topics. The conference was designed to provide a more educated vision of the world
around us, and for me it did.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Held at the Washington Post Headquarters in Washington DC.</td></tr>
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As the Washington Post promoted their
upcoming Transformers Conference, and seeing the list of noted speakers, it occurred
to me that it would be a chance to expand my own horizons and to educate myself
on topics, that I do not come in contact with daily. From drones transporting human organs for transplant, to Artificial Intelligence. From 3-D printing of spacecraft to process of philanthropy.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Katie Couric leads a panel on philanthropy.</td></tr>
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While a day-long series of panel discussions on Brainiac
subjects may seem like a sleeper, it was anything but. The energy level from
both the audience and the speakers was switched on HIGH, just when you were
lulled into a routine of a panel discussion, a single presenter would emerge,
generating a very different energy.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZskrvWPj8TVdAbps9MwWi1jWUzbaVpOT8OghuQH25eNnPZm0V1JsLMaDjWStS_eoETK1qGIlCOYWcRafsIg9RO4dwXTg96KMRUrUPWv3UGPxHnenf9K4Bzb8W5C9_1VuJTUdFPHohPTTB/s1600/DNA+Talk.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Eric Schulte did a stand up routine on DNA, Is it the Cosmic tool or the universal messenger? #PostTransformers" border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZskrvWPj8TVdAbps9MwWi1jWUzbaVpOT8OghuQH25eNnPZm0V1JsLMaDjWStS_eoETK1qGIlCOYWcRafsIg9RO4dwXTg96KMRUrUPWv3UGPxHnenf9K4Bzb8W5C9_1VuJTUdFPHohPTTB/s320/DNA+Talk.JPG" title="Eric Schulte did a stand up routine on DNA, Is it the Cosmic tool or the universal messenger? #PostTransformers" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eric Schulte did a stand up routine on DNA, Is it the Cosmic<br />tool or the universal messenger?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
As evidenced when Eric Schulte, a Science
Communicator did a stand-up routine on DNA: Is it the cosmic tool or the
universal messenger? Or when Vinton G. Cerf, labeled “The Father of the Internet,”
an internet evangelist from Google “Techsplained” the internet, using a basic
postcard as the visual image, explaining how billions of devices connect to one
another in what we call the world wide web, and what is needed for it to
continue in the future.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXJo-xV_f71qRXH146K0IpYL1-nVIiFe52VmdiZ6nTmMnDpra_8nc2GyYeEBeSzS_kI-hArqIe24FbbYyPj_tB32PuC8gVmp9UDaz2grdLHs6iofLXfYhl6eEPbt27xVVAgN_EUMdXDufg/s1600/space+smiles.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="There's No Place Like Space. Recent milestones in commercial crew space transport, and new frontiers for business. #PostTransformers" border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXJo-xV_f71qRXH146K0IpYL1-nVIiFe52VmdiZ6nTmMnDpra_8nc2GyYeEBeSzS_kI-hArqIe24FbbYyPj_tB32PuC8gVmp9UDaz2grdLHs6iofLXfYhl6eEPbt27xVVAgN_EUMdXDufg/s320/space+smiles.JPG" title="There's No Place Like Space. Recent milestones in commercial crew space transport, and new frontiers for business. #PostTransformers" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There's No Place Like Space. Recent milestones in commercial<br />crew space transport, and new frontiers for business.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
the Transformers Conference brought together an audience of over 200 attendees to hear from panels and single presenters on a topics, from Artificial Intelligence to philanthropy, from,
neuroscience to one-on-one conversations with business and technology leaders
like Arati Prabhakar, Director of DARPA, Craig Venter, co-founder of Human
Longevity, Inc. and others including at the very end, Jeff Bezos, owner of
Amazon and the Washington Post.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnXRTF5a0a_Imn88Ia2tcHkYd_auXB1tc8ZhwDWTmNqNr7SLcjtbd_eB1cEyPY4Nd1knC0oaLb4RzzR5b37jU1taqU_TZuJjPxUzrqZh4WtOay1dPVWxaQD3zzIDr4yd0TvZc4827spWwF/s1600/Martine.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Martine Rothblatt opened the day with a discussion on technology with Neely Tucker, of the Washington Post. #PostTransformers" border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnXRTF5a0a_Imn88Ia2tcHkYd_auXB1tc8ZhwDWTmNqNr7SLcjtbd_eB1cEyPY4Nd1knC0oaLb4RzzR5b37jU1taqU_TZuJjPxUzrqZh4WtOay1dPVWxaQD3zzIDr4yd0TvZc4827spWwF/s320/Martine.JPG" title="Martine Rothblatt opened the day with a discussion on technology with Neely Tucker, of the Washington Post. #PostTransformers" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Martine Rothblatt opened the day with a discussion on<br />technology with Neely Tucker, of the Washington Post.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It pleased me that the Washington Post opened the event with
Martine Rothblatt, founder of Sirius XM satellite radio, and a number of other
technology companies, and now heads a healthcare group that employs hundreds of
people in states that still repress the idea of equal rights for many. While
LGBT rights were not center stage, Ms. Rothblatt presented on technology and
has it outrun humanity. Though a brief discussion was held on her thoughts of the
state of LGBT affairs, interracial marriage discrimination as well as other
issues where equal rights have not been afforded to human beings.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi68XgZN-LzhBsE435tQKh-lk1DpkQgL8xb_KV87iEtYLf2CsS5CN27YnFGbJTEJi0vHk5xOBJ9n49JjzYymo6slreFr0euacdhsXCB7MwQtBQsSw7NkJxZCWOezxXOt8VA-JT412dE2LIr/s1600/Cyborg.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Neil Harbisson, a Cyborg, with John Werner and Shelia Nirenberg on a panel about neuroscience moderated by Lois Romano. #posttransformers" border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi68XgZN-LzhBsE435tQKh-lk1DpkQgL8xb_KV87iEtYLf2CsS5CN27YnFGbJTEJi0vHk5xOBJ9n49JjzYymo6slreFr0euacdhsXCB7MwQtBQsSw7NkJxZCWOezxXOt8VA-JT412dE2LIr/s320/Cyborg.JPG" title="Neil Harbisson, a Cyborg, with John Werner and Shelia Nirenberg on a panel about neuroscience moderated by Lois Romano. #posttransformers" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Neil Harbisson, a Cyborg, with John Werner and Shelia Nirenberg<br />on a panel about neuroscience moderated by Lois Romano.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As a gay man in my late 50’s, who has seen LGBT acceptance
emerge as the norm, I found several moments throughout the day exposing my
own prejudices. I wrestled with accepting a cyborg, who had an antenna implanted
in his skull. Neil Harbisson, a Cyborg Artist, with the Cyborg Foundation and recognized
as a cyborg, spoke on the topic of neuroscience and augmented reality along
with John Werner, of Meta, and Shelia Nirenberg, a Cornell University Neuroscientist. While it may also have been a first for
many in the audience, I found myself saying this is just too weird. Though
listening to the other panelists, and the moderator, Lois Romano, Washington
Post Live Editor, and the main force behind Transformers, who appeared also
struggled with the cyborg concept. This moment of personal confrontation turned
me around to be more open minded and accepting.</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqbmEy7tk7ttTGxoyKgd-9F4EzXa9tdfxCffiEcFTQItRgbFOyV6dtod_jzXtD4p8QoXySVEf3cSGhXIbS03EWzE8pPXXDeVov0irY6Mi4v7Ea_ubjJT7A2T2ZOG9TZ89gbW2Io6MWtMr2/s1600/WhatsUP.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Reddit co-founder Steve Huffman and Twich Founder, Emmett Shear speak with Caitlin Dewey." border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqbmEy7tk7ttTGxoyKgd-9F4EzXa9tdfxCffiEcFTQItRgbFOyV6dtod_jzXtD4p8QoXySVEf3cSGhXIbS03EWzE8pPXXDeVov0irY6Mi4v7Ea_ubjJT7A2T2ZOG9TZ89gbW2Io6MWtMr2/s320/WhatsUP.JPG" title="Reddit co-founder Steve Huffman and Twich Founder, Emmett Shear speak with Caitlin Dewey." width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reddit co-founder Steve Huffman and Twich Founder,<br />Emmett Shear speak with Caitlin Dewey.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The Washington Post’s selection of moderators was well
curated. Each bringing with them a wealth of knowledge, but not at all
overshadowing the panelist. Young and old were brought together on stage in
interesting and diverse panel discussions led by moderators befitting to the
topics presented. Caitlin Dewey, Digital Culture Critic from the Washington
Post introduced two young tech company founders and CEO’s with a “What’s UP?”
opening, the millennial way of starting a conversation.</div>
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Katie Couric, a well-known personality now a Global News Anchor
for Yahoo, moderated a panel on the new currency of giving. Talking to three wealthy
donors about the current wave of tech entrepreneurs become wealthy philanthropists
and starting their own foundations for good.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitH_dYQtT_y0QDrUtfrNiehr4I6LT6qbj20NG8HL6o4XZpSkdDcI_MeWe_tKPho8qnzjp1qQxVATwvMKBpsBYb-d2xQrlboNQ7xdXpWRZNZ5VXE0Tjv0Kygm0Naqbb6F5_zcKSrurs0XW0/s1600/Robot+build.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="High School Students building robots for competition." border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitH_dYQtT_y0QDrUtfrNiehr4I6LT6qbj20NG8HL6o4XZpSkdDcI_MeWe_tKPho8qnzjp1qQxVATwvMKBpsBYb-d2xQrlboNQ7xdXpWRZNZ5VXE0Tjv0Kygm0Naqbb6F5_zcKSrurs0XW0/s320/Robot+build.jpg" title="High School Students building robots for competition." width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">High School Students building robots for competition.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Bringing the panel discussions to a close was an award
ceremony for students from three different high schools who throughout the day had been participating in a robot
build and testing their machines outside of the auditorium.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmLQm_IFy29tVfqZH7MyxWNnwLkc6OwKcm0d-OHaQ3Xs8q51SSaicUfp98ROJPFWdQxiBvL-YgzxkER6JuP81v1ghXOzViuTHH-KZPR0qtjZkwYuRhulumsATXq3svnwGLbJhuUpqsr9Rl/s1600/20160518_162719.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Jeff Bezos, Founder of Amazon, presenting awards to students who built robots." border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmLQm_IFy29tVfqZH7MyxWNnwLkc6OwKcm0d-OHaQ3Xs8q51SSaicUfp98ROJPFWdQxiBvL-YgzxkER6JuP81v1ghXOzViuTHH-KZPR0qtjZkwYuRhulumsATXq3svnwGLbJhuUpqsr9Rl/s320/20160518_162719.jpg" title="Jeff Bezos, Founder of Amazon, presenting awards to student who built robots." width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jeff Bezos, Founder of Amazon, presenting awards to students.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
The student robot build was judged by Amazon founder, Jeff Bezos, Cyborg
Artist, Neil Harbisson, and others, with the top award going to the Robotics
Team from Woodrow Wilson High School in Northwest Washington DC. Jeff Bezos, conversed with the students from
the teams, bout their desires to be engineers, one student responded with how
it would better his world already made better by Amazon. (which got an
announcement of unsolicited endorsement, from Mr. Bezos.)</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBZf1V2NdkxlYDVHN1LcCbZr5s_FkPqOvc2ltajEkUK7qpJi9T8L7pfWgzpWTHkJHaiGMKtUlHcCViUssYmaVJHfI0IWVSJT27AQbL4sqx5d12JY7i-yN9pu02KOO2zgK_PQqwUlXEFfw4/s1600/Bezos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Martin Baron, Executive Editor in candid conversation with Washington Post owner, Jeff Bezos." border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBZf1V2NdkxlYDVHN1LcCbZr5s_FkPqOvc2ltajEkUK7qpJi9T8L7pfWgzpWTHkJHaiGMKtUlHcCViUssYmaVJHfI0IWVSJT27AQbL4sqx5d12JY7i-yN9pu02KOO2zgK_PQqwUlXEFfw4/s320/Bezos.jpg" title="Martin Baron, Executive Editor in candid conversation with Washington Post owner, Jeff Bezos." width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Martin Baron, Executive Editor in candid conversation with<br />Washington Post owner, Jeff Bezos.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The day closed with a conversation with Washington Post
owner, Jeff Bezos and a bashful, Martin Baron, Executive Editor of the
Washington Post. Bezos, who himself was a draw to attend the event, came across very frankly and relaxed as if he were talking among a close group of friends, which resonated well with the audience. Baron presented a number of topics including current political controversy involving Bezos and the GOP presumptive Presidential candidate. As well as the question of why he purchased the Washington Post in the first place.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB1ssWKxdrIKCclpJ0HjJA0FmAufbi4v4CreuEWUVA6BVLHFbEr-_DJ0cFEKJlIGHQbXSSThSIWlssZdYD01fPxZHIekqQm7acNIzxvcPFlD-m832xa_RjR9U0cKeaV25QF33oe2S73ztv/s1600/20160518_171821.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Frederick J. Ryan, Publisher, The Washington Post with Martin Baron and Jeff Bezos, conclude the #PostTransformers" border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB1ssWKxdrIKCclpJ0HjJA0FmAufbi4v4CreuEWUVA6BVLHFbEr-_DJ0cFEKJlIGHQbXSSThSIWlssZdYD01fPxZHIekqQm7acNIzxvcPFlD-m832xa_RjR9U0cKeaV25QF33oe2S73ztv/s320/20160518_171821.jpg" title="Frederick J. Ryan, Publisher, The Washington Post with Martin Baron and Jeff Bezos, conclude the #PostTransformers" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Frederick J. Ryan, Publisher, The Washington Post with<br />Martin Baron and Jeff Bezos, conclude the #PostTransformers.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Bezos spoke of his childhood
interest in world news. An interest encouraged by his parents, and how as a family, they discussed stories written in the
Washington Post during the Watergate era. He further explained that that
the Post had a seat at the Washington DC, thus the world table, and how the Post had so much
potential in providing digital information to a greater audience. Personally, I gave the Post great credit for
putting Mr. Bezos at the end of the event, so that he did not overshadow the
event's speakers.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOsS8B0hBRvLM0M0J1Y1r8FkjEISdxFxdq3Fiawk5Qsd4Ol7iBg4HvbRkoTSKIE2xzAAGNLZxM6qxhhHW4Ol0peEKHVcp9Xw9HkPn4Yy6MjZW8bbv6tjmMAdn83_m42vB_TyYrFcFfPEZT/s1600/samsung+leader+Transformers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Shankar Chandran, V-P of Samsung Electonics Spoke to the audience on Investing in the Futur" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOsS8B0hBRvLM0M0J1Y1r8FkjEISdxFxdq3Fiawk5Qsd4Ol7iBg4HvbRkoTSKIE2xzAAGNLZxM6qxhhHW4Ol0peEKHVcp9Xw9HkPn4Yy6MjZW8bbv6tjmMAdn83_m42vB_TyYrFcFfPEZT/s320/samsung+leader+Transformers.JPG" title="Shankar Chandran, V-P of Samsung Electonics Spoke to the audience on Investing in the Futur" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shankar Chandran, V-P of Samsung Electonics<br />Spoke to the audience on Investing in the Future.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Samsung and Lockheed Martin were Presenting Sponsors, while both had key placement throughout the day, with Samsung’s Shankar Chandran providing a sponsored content on trans-formative technology: Investing in the Future. Samsung offered attendees a hands-on</div>
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experience with their virtual</div>
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device charging kiosk</div>
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(not compatible with Apple</div>
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auditorium.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt0VTflZZicjfaPvLsmRfuvyA34kgPqIRqSTCKp1cwGfaGjYfU0UJyYxf3miJKTrIXa8ZaZgwEot3q8aplhjlEr9MwcRsoDp8GZRAFOtUBGsc-viZKt0_QF3wuRVOS5gkKeGu9ov1KpW_u/s1600/main+sponsors.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="#PostTransformers presenting sponsors Samsung and Lockheed Martin." border="0" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt0VTflZZicjfaPvLsmRfuvyA34kgPqIRqSTCKp1cwGfaGjYfU0UJyYxf3miJKTrIXa8ZaZgwEot3q8aplhjlEr9MwcRsoDp8GZRAFOtUBGsc-viZKt0_QF3wuRVOS5gkKeGu9ov1KpW_u/s200/main+sponsors.JPG" title="#PostTransformers presenting sponsors Samsung and Lockheed Martin." width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">#PostTransformers presenting sponsors<br />Samsung and Lockheed Martin.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Georgetown University McDonough School of Business, The Home
Depot, Makeblock, GoPro, &Pizza and adafruit were contributing sponsors
supporting the event, and the student’s robot build competition.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIqUI8vSlO72SGIY5CwZ_nA-5hgZk_xE7wwp-SehE2lBubXQ-z9Sk_XghGz0PUoZkNLwTBFWyTae1H1A6IBZ8IQ6PsaOGhzFffVSuPk5-PCuMR9rUt-CrC-sgHiSoOlyk3NB-wIYqrTwJZ/s1600/Sponsors.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="#PostTransformers contributing sponsors Georgetown University, McDonough School of Business, Home Depot, Makeblock, GoPro, &Pizza, adafruit." border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIqUI8vSlO72SGIY5CwZ_nA-5hgZk_xE7wwp-SehE2lBubXQ-z9Sk_XghGz0PUoZkNLwTBFWyTae1H1A6IBZ8IQ6PsaOGhzFffVSuPk5-PCuMR9rUt-CrC-sgHiSoOlyk3NB-wIYqrTwJZ/s200/Sponsors.JPG" title="#PostTransformers contributing sponsors Georgetown University, McDonough School of Business, Home Depot, Makeblock, GoPro, &Pizza, adafruit." width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">#PostTransformers contributing sponsors<br />Georgetown University, McDonough<br />School of Business, Home Depot,<br />Makeblock, GoPro, &Pizza, adafruit</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The event ended with a light reception with wine and beer
and hor d’oeuvres served on silver trays by tuxedo clad wait staff, in the auditorium's lobby, the
perfect way to end an intelligent discussion.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u><i><a href="http://wapo.st/transformers" target="_blank">For more info: Wapo.st/transformers</a></i></u></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpTf9YHVzxSDlH9hyVlQExmUFCoRSEzePo32uoPrBZU3corbyGAKsQTaZMsHOaBiaNVJAf9VW8Un4WctY-OhPq3eJgCEDX8yOQMQVfI_ZaBnN0BpUTJWhneOgknshCUbcirp3gkJ2HYtZW/s1600/20160518_083839.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="William West Hopper "Selfie" at the beginning of the #posttransformers event." border="0" height="123" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpTf9YHVzxSDlH9hyVlQExmUFCoRSEzePo32uoPrBZU3corbyGAKsQTaZMsHOaBiaNVJAf9VW8Un4WctY-OhPq3eJgCEDX8yOQMQVfI_ZaBnN0BpUTJWhneOgknshCUbcirp3gkJ2HYtZW/s200/20160518_083839.jpg" title="William West Hopper "Selfie" at the beginning of the #posttransformers event." width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">William West Hopper "Selfie" at the<br />beginning of the #posttransformers event.</td></tr>
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<b><i>William West Hopper</i></b><br />
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William West Hopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731459759270915266noreply@blogger.com0One Franklin Square, 1301 K St NW, Washington, DC 20071, USA38.9029257 -77.03054350000002238.9021532 -77.031804000000022 38.903698199999994 -77.029283000000021tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8531193075195695125.post-36051876257590764892015-12-04T11:41:00.001-05:002016-01-10T16:27:43.982-05:00Pennsylvania 6, The New Meeting & Dinning Spot in Downtown Washington DC<h2>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Pennsylvania 6</span></span></h2>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3hdJ3rh-OH99BuYRJcjQA2B3gkU4npfOQLYHfu-9WVdcCYdOHcrkAQtchmuompSS1iZgemQjqgawV-qO2AEV88dDr0O7XqRmaBkqGurKG6zkgzLTL4njDSjAP7sRinheB1Zv7TljJzRxx/s1600/20151118_190616.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Marquee for Pennsylvania 6" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3hdJ3rh-OH99BuYRJcjQA2B3gkU4npfOQLYHfu-9WVdcCYdOHcrkAQtchmuompSS1iZgemQjqgawV-qO2AEV88dDr0O7XqRmaBkqGurKG6zkgzLTL4njDSjAP7sRinheB1Zv7TljJzRxx/s320/20151118_190616.jpg" title="Marquee for Pennsylvania 6" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Marquee reminds of the great<br />
era in entertainment and dinning out.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">When a new restaurant opens, it is
a party, and we were invited to participate in one of the opening parties for
this new downtown DC eatery, located in the heart of the business district
right off of Franklin Square.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7UKQpXj60i8jzQRUweYWWhovnvw_b-joSH5A42yPA1YNbzlTHe56CE5rBE84j7HO_Rcw4voxsG13GfPa2bCLQ176x5rjgCGzhpCt7spA4fbBYeX6_WH7ZVYpFRXF9U2dvbJCT2OaHTRrO/s1600/20151118_190320.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Pennsylvania 6 Bar" border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7UKQpXj60i8jzQRUweYWWhovnvw_b-joSH5A42yPA1YNbzlTHe56CE5rBE84j7HO_Rcw4voxsG13GfPa2bCLQ176x5rjgCGzhpCt7spA4fbBYeX6_WH7ZVYpFRXF9U2dvbJCT2OaHTRrO/s320/20151118_190320.jpg" title="Pennsylvania 6 Bar" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The bar is large and has lots of options and friendly bartenders.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Pennsylvania 6 at 1350 EYE (I)
Street NW, is the new restaurant that opened in what was once an Italian eatery.
And this new hotspot is going to be known for cotemporary cuisine, as well as
handmade cocktails, a great wine selection, and a fine selection of craft
beers. Pennsylvania 6 totally transformed the space, when you walk in there is
no question that the lively bar will be a go to place meeting up with friends
and business colleagues in DC. For those that want to sit and convene in a quiet
environment, there is an elegant parlor, complete with fireplace, and seating
areas for two or four, or eight, or more.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh2VUApPCYEMlNIEcxy-g49xXhf7m2wjmAT-S5r9YXhAaPt5gznmSE62weLffTXyht_JN3P-O8_RACDIGsYsjkP6XdB6rFY9s6Yg5AUIqur4C91h9GwkvM4S_vJWLyUEi6O1BsvqJaeg_3/s1600/20151118_190225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Pennsylvania 6 Parlor" border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh2VUApPCYEMlNIEcxy-g49xXhf7m2wjmAT-S5r9YXhAaPt5gznmSE62weLffTXyht_JN3P-O8_RACDIGsYsjkP6XdB6rFY9s6Yg5AUIqur4C91h9GwkvM4S_vJWLyUEi6O1BsvqJaeg_3/s320/20151118_190225.jpg" title="Pennsylvania 6 Parlor" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The parlor is an intimate space just off the bar, great place<br />
to meet friends and relax with a handcrafted cocktail.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Pennsylvania 6 is not just a hot
new bar, or meeting place, it is a darned fine place to eat! With several large
Dining rooms, as well as a VIP table for entertaining 6 or 8 guests. We expect
that it will be this table, and who dines here, that you will read about in the
celerity blogs and style columns. Surrounded by a wine display, and quite visible,
yet removed enough, so you can see and be seen.</span><span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitSYl_vBsL4mebK1YRTsza8GX_n_K3rBkBLzKnpMG2gmPaK3HAhoNGpXqZdKjJMP6BXgnEUirdmvBmYJSoZsirptEtNM6epGilGap7UYqv37r-zYh0Z6_ozASIDflw_nzxNARhE1v1LySP/s1600/20151118_185417.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Pennsylvania 6 Chef, Staff and Friends" border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitSYl_vBsL4mebK1YRTsza8GX_n_K3rBkBLzKnpMG2gmPaK3HAhoNGpXqZdKjJMP6BXgnEUirdmvBmYJSoZsirptEtNM6epGilGap7UYqv37r-zYh0Z6_ozASIDflw_nzxNARhE1v1LySP/s320/20151118_185417.jpg" title="Pennsylvania 6 Chef, Staff, and Friends" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pennsylvania 6 staff, including Chef Matt Ifkovits<br />
with our team member, Missy Millikan.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">We were
lucky enough to get a private tour of Pennsylvania 6’s kitchen with Chef Matt Ifkovitz,
trained at the Culinary Institute of America, he proudly showed us around back
of the house, where they prepare an eclectic culinary assortment of different
dishes, not just the old fare that of steaks and chops, plenty of fresh fish
and seafood options, abound as well. What was being served the night we were
there was quite delicious.</span><span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8YyDX0SL3trX2unL9e5wLrVMMyAnKcDzzV88ytkfvXP9_sQDhvSOxoBHCneEIAhDKOQqqv5KBCshoV0OmmaRcKyHKegPiXyerg9de6kHZUhFcqSzNHPw_Rv6pqCk8FX7SEg6ws8_hFct2/s1600/20151118_185440.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Pennsylvania 6 Kitchen" border="0" height="177" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8YyDX0SL3trX2unL9e5wLrVMMyAnKcDzzV88ytkfvXP9_sQDhvSOxoBHCneEIAhDKOQqqv5KBCshoV0OmmaRcKyHKegPiXyerg9de6kHZUhFcqSzNHPw_Rv6pqCk8FX7SEg6ws8_hFct2/s320/20151118_185440.jpg" title="Pennsylvania 6 Kitchen" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A behind the scenes tour of the Pennsylvania 6 Kitchen<br />
was a highlight of our visit. </td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Owned by </span><a href="http://www.publichouseusa.com/" style="font-family: Garamond, serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Public House USA</a><span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> which has restaurants in New York City, Philadelphia, Stamford, and two locally, at
National Harbor. Pennsylvania 6 is reminiscent of a mid-20 century New York
Celebrity hangout, you can just imagine looking across the bar and seeing Dean
Martin, Frank Sinatra and anyone from the Rat Pack enjoying one of the
delicious drinks, or a glass of wine from their amazing wine selection that
their sommelier has gathered. No doubt you will want to put this on your list
of downtown DC spots to spend some time in this winter. (Hint) If your party is 6 to 8 for dinner, ask to be seated at the VIP Table. No doubt you will be noted as a DC Celebrity.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; line-height: 17.12px;">Want to get a look at Pennsylvania 6?</span></h2>
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<a href="https://youtu.be/0E9q0SFhRvM">Video of the HIP Network Opening Party 11/18/15</a></h2>
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px;"><a href="http://www.opentable.com/pennsylvania-6-dc-reservations-washington?rid=171532&restref=171532">Open Table</a> </span><span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 17.12px;">takes reservations online, </span><span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px;">or you can call them directly.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; line-height: 17.12px;">1350 Eye (I) Street, NW, Washington DC, </span><span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; line-height: 17.12px;">20005</span></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; line-height: 17.12px;">202.796.1600</span></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; line-height: 17.12px;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">http://www.pennsylvania6dc.com/</span></span></b></div>
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William West Hopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731459759270915266noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8531193075195695125.post-83808591017240552212015-12-01T12:43:00.003-05:002016-01-10T16:39:22.333-05:00Vanity Fair & Shinola Open the Holiday Season with a Benefit Party in Washington DC<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6OH0SwSlH_AVT3sM_o2swn-sBS_8wLqxFkYeeYJAYUhLfG7lsFpppi4r5_v6I_Q4bijWTs3SpmaUROVPA5FOoRwdIrggrepp6h3hcO6RbkhLXbyn7Q0c77CSu8AcAmzQ8b9YS9IOwDNbE/s1600/20151123_194721.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Shinola DC Clock" border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6OH0SwSlH_AVT3sM_o2swn-sBS_8wLqxFkYeeYJAYUhLfG7lsFpppi4r5_v6I_Q4bijWTs3SpmaUROVPA5FOoRwdIrggrepp6h3hcO6RbkhLXbyn7Q0c77CSu8AcAmzQ8b9YS9IOwDNbE/s200/20151123_194721.jpg" title="Shinola DC Clock" width="112" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Iconic Shinola Clock</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Washington DC Shinola Store </span></span></h2>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5zqfA-OQjtWd3RCXO_8sEIutu3yf0TRmLMtL6YLba7wSYM-LudqAuCH54oTpz8uID36PiFZrMrLbdpt9sBVoo1uBOhFTGKZlvpeatM4355MGR9L6DIdZVCMZFrBR1Du33Lkbba8N8iJas/s1600/20151123_192814.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Shinola DC Party" border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5zqfA-OQjtWd3RCXO_8sEIutu3yf0TRmLMtL6YLba7wSYM-LudqAuCH54oTpz8uID36PiFZrMrLbdpt9sBVoo1uBOhFTGKZlvpeatM4355MGR9L6DIdZVCMZFrBR1Du33Lkbba8N8iJas/s320/20151123_192814.jpg" title="Shinola DC Party" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Washington DC Shinola Store was decked out.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP-P4h-uhdOedknQ3nfRIzJUQIRzRh0xusC2Kx21O8cJkMYLk67_vFixmK0RLuz0nSSUIkFf5D0PyrqermzX1m5y3BM4ubQI8dHDB8aBImJRZ67wwj2RbSyaEae5JOB_hIeSQLBfPFZrfP/s1600/20151123_193541.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Shinola DC Goods" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP-P4h-uhdOedknQ3nfRIzJUQIRzRh0xusC2Kx21O8cJkMYLk67_vFixmK0RLuz0nSSUIkFf5D0PyrqermzX1m5y3BM4ubQI8dHDB8aBImJRZ67wwj2RbSyaEae5JOB_hIeSQLBfPFZrfP/s320/20151123_193541.jpg" title="Shinola DC Goods" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shinola known for shoe polish</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; line-height: 107%;">We were thrilled to be invited to
a holiday shopping party at the Washington DC Flagship store for</span><span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; line-height: 107%;"> Shinola, </span><a href="https://twitter.com/Shinola"><span style="background: rgb(245, 248, 250); font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">@<span class="u-linkcomplex-target">Shinola</span></span></a><span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; line-height: 107%;">
1631 14<sup>th</sup>, NW. Shinola is a luxury goods maker and purveyor that
promotes Made-In-America goods, that people want to buy, classic watches, bikes,
leather goods, and more. This by-invitation only was promoted by Vanity Fair </span><a href="https://twitter.com/VanityFair"><span style="background: rgb(245, 248, 250); font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">@<span class="u-linkcomplex-target">VanityFair</span></span></a><span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; line-height: 107%;">
as an event to showcase their new DC location, recently moved from the West to
the East side of the street, and more than tripled their display </span><span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; line-height: 107%;">space to this
corner of 14</span><sup style="font-family: Garamond, serif; line-height: 107%;">th</sup><span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; line-height: 107%;"> and R Streets, NW, in the now hip, Logan Circle
neighborhood.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">While the Shinola Store and its line
of luxury products are relatively new, beginning in in 2011, with the first watches
produced in 2013. The brand name is one that has a long history in the leather
goods industry, as Shinola produced and sold shoe polish products, mostly
known from the World War II era with the colloquialism, “You don’t know shit
from Shinola.” Referring to the brands shoe polish. While the original brand
was no longer in business, the name was resurrected for this Detroit Michigan
manufacturer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2fl-9NpKgUusvkcTVPckxazH09xKjURmvMKsE22lG-YyuNHRlGAqqAnf1F_zBSeUT7U4O9jYnY1DFP4v_9eXw0LQedUIx5QGSgCEXK6UMAY3p8S7rHzAXH89C9EQrMmTYHXnquUpsLkZ7/s1600/20151123_192755.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Shinola DC Pet Goods" border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2fl-9NpKgUusvkcTVPckxazH09xKjURmvMKsE22lG-YyuNHRlGAqqAnf1F_zBSeUT7U4O9jYnY1DFP4v_9eXw0LQedUIx5QGSgCEXK6UMAY3p8S7rHzAXH89C9EQrMmTYHXnquUpsLkZ7/s200/20151123_192755.jpg" title="Shinola DC Pet Goods" width="112" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dog Collars and Leash</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjoPJO1NSZ2BuBkNFALccXHvXAyUsREThH3DnVorxUDucZ4uzCl0InBtFOo0F-ImUAhBnletG4waB9_8tYjatSFlNQxbyTDjgnPjNWlyWmn1deDkBhrHuLVVOh3PGBa0UzL3xPXrAoZqy9/s1600/20151123_192147.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Shinola DC Watches" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjoPJO1NSZ2BuBkNFALccXHvXAyUsREThH3DnVorxUDucZ4uzCl0InBtFOo0F-ImUAhBnletG4waB9_8tYjatSFlNQxbyTDjgnPjNWlyWmn1deDkBhrHuLVVOh3PGBa0UzL3xPXrAoZqy9/s320/20151123_192147.jpg" title="Shinola DC Watches" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shinola Watches</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1XGd87JsXUQmnk_8U67BDc8lYSeTKPISXFKoLMo33u09rkTQEYYcbvih_1tHsuaWNB62GSxVCr9boYMl9YHoz-DSSaoT3DodKVX0ejDrxlcKCqWXJIPfi0sJTxA7__50TvX1qUzttLw_c/s1600/20151123_192133.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1XGd87JsXUQmnk_8U67BDc8lYSeTKPISXFKoLMo33u09rkTQEYYcbvih_1tHsuaWNB62GSxVCr9boYMl9YHoz-DSSaoT3DodKVX0ejDrxlcKCqWXJIPfi0sJTxA7__50TvX1qUzttLw_c/s320/20151123_192133.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shinola Signature Watches</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Shinola
Stores, which are showing up in many cities, sell products made in their own
workshops, primarily in Detroit Michigan. Though they do source materials from
elsewhere, their focus is to make American made products, and employ workers.
The most well-known products are their distinctive watches, which are becoming
the “It” watch to be seen wearing. Shinola also builds bicycles in a classic
American style, offers leather goods, folio’s wallets, key fobs, and Shinola
Pet, a line of dog collars, leashes, and alike, all branded with their distinctive
name. Recently a watch with a classic mid-20<sup>th</sup> Century design was
released under the iconic name of Muhammad Ali, celebrating the Muhammad Ali
Center in Louisville Kentucky.</span><span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> <a href="http://bit.ly/1NbspN5">http://bit.ly/1NbspN5</a>
</span><span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; font-weight: normal; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">The purchase price of
$2,250 comes not only with the watch in a hand-crafted hickory box, prints of
the athlete and membership in Shinola’s Foundry, a members only collective that
offers VIP benefits to members.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Shinola has expanded to offer a
limited signature line of coats and sweatshirts, as well as elegant writing
journals. Price points for their items,
are higher than items sourced from off shore, their market research has shown
that consumers will pay a premium for American-Made goods.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiljDW7VhQx10foqOsHFmRvfZPOnYEN_ctUolxcYk6MhNVssvb0GOh4Qv4ooNwMhP9KY6SrHBiIa1jvQuQmgHYosLGMuz9Phc6KE5S31vll_sWpie2F72k8IxJGW3lPqKLRykwAzeX985j4/s1600/20151123_194014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Shinola DC" border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiljDW7VhQx10foqOsHFmRvfZPOnYEN_ctUolxcYk6MhNVssvb0GOh4Qv4ooNwMhP9KY6SrHBiIa1jvQuQmgHYosLGMuz9Phc6KE5S31vll_sWpie2F72k8IxJGW3lPqKLRykwAzeX985j4/s320/20151123_194014.jpg" title="Shinola DC" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shinola's VF Partygoers shop and socialize</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The Party which was promoted by
Vanity Fair, as a fund raiser for the Sasha Bruce Youth house (<a href="http://sashabruce.org/">http://sashabruce.org/</a>) and was quite swank,
with a guest list at the door, coat check, cocktails and passed bites. Shinloa
staff were throughout the store with iPad in hand to write orders, and pack
purchases for customers. VF Celebrities Michael Carl, </span><a href="https://twitter.com/carlscrush"><span style="background: #F5F8FA; color: #8899a6; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">@<span class="u-linkcomplex-target">carlscrush</span></span></a>,<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">
Mat Ullian, </span><a href="https://twitter.com/mullian"><span style="background: #F5F8FA; color: #8899a6; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">@<span class="u-linkcomplex-target">mullian</span></span></a>,<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> Carol Blue Hitchens, as well as local names like
Heather Podesta, </span><a href="https://twitter.com/HMPodesta"><span style="background: #F5F8FA; color: #8899a6; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">@<span class="u-linkcomplex-target">HMPodesta</span></span></a>,
<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Luma Hakki, and Sohelia Rostami were touted as
participants. While we did not meet them, there was surely a well turned out
crowd of young and upcoming Washingtonians on the scene that night.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwRO6wToZHxzaZakpmbj7uo1TnZ61CNMS9xOl1QQ6bL4a9lOCVBhYMm1HNFOobw2ZUNzl9u-99-42kNQ88fheh0KKrDHeZMch-_S7xSCkCWPKVstoCvfCplDF81-q0MEuo3CI_c4eUR4ye/s1600/20151123_194741.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Shinola DC" border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwRO6wToZHxzaZakpmbj7uo1TnZ61CNMS9xOl1QQ6bL4a9lOCVBhYMm1HNFOobw2ZUNzl9u-99-42kNQ88fheh0KKrDHeZMch-_S7xSCkCWPKVstoCvfCplDF81-q0MEuo3CI_c4eUR4ye/s320/20151123_194741.jpg" title="Shinola DC" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shinola DC has a new Store on 14th St NW<br />
in the Logan Circle neighborhood.</td></tr>
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Having such a high-end luxury
goods<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkOY0rNAHNy5mbhxUXe64F9cuTkScFe6yrm97O93t_FYs3V17Mfo1YNAO0eSAOCvzT_Xrfs1G6TL043b8CibVDUSFFc4yhYG5DJj0zPOsvB0XteGwGCmxV4tLVd0vG02Z2CPl6TigjvYF9/s1600/20151123_195136.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Shinola DC" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkOY0rNAHNy5mbhxUXe64F9cuTkScFe6yrm97O93t_FYs3V17Mfo1YNAO0eSAOCvzT_Xrfs1G6TL043b8CibVDUSFFc4yhYG5DJj0zPOsvB0XteGwGCmxV4tLVd0vG02Z2CPl6TigjvYF9/s320/20151123_195136.jpg" title="Shinola DC" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">14th St NW is a lively friendly place</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">store like Shinola in the heart of the now vibrant 14<sup>th</sup> Street
shopping mecca, with its restaurants, home furnishings stores, and alike is a
boon for Washington DC, where just a generation before the area was in dire straits.
New business and building development is bringing young professionals back to
live in the city. And they are staying to raise their families. This new energy
defines the Logan Circle neighborhood as more than a passing fad of a hip
community, making it a place where people want to live and work. So much of DC
is changing, such as the new City Center, the now lively U Street NW and H
Street NE, making the city a thriving residential/commercial community that it
once was known to be. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "garamond" , serif;"><span style="line-height: 17.12px;">Story and Photos by William West Hopper </span></span><a class="DashboardProfileCard-screennameLink u-linkComplex u-linkClean" href="https://twitter.com/wwhopper" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #1f98c7; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16px; outline: 0px; padding-right: 5px; text-decoration: none !important;">@<span class="u-linkComplex-target" style="text-decoration: underline !important;">wwhopper</span></a></b></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.6;">Shinola Store - DC</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 1.6; margin-bottom: 3px; margin-top: 3px; outline: none; text-align: center;">
1631 14th Street NW, Washington, District of Columbia <span style="line-height: 1.6;">US, 20009 </span><span style="line-height: 1.6;">202-470-0200</span></div>
William West Hopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731459759270915266noreply@blogger.com01631 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009, USA38.912402 -77.03157499999997513.257330500000002 -118.51594999999998 64.5674735 -35.547199999999975tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8531193075195695125.post-45540556027094993172015-11-07T15:03:00.000-05:002015-11-07T15:03:21.075-05:00Dinner on the House @ Uncle Julio's, Mexican Made From Scrach <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2hqlIbuJ3rxUF5UWbyBNpG7s5pq-LmgDrt2BCd7DVKDE3iJ7cl-sOXyiEPObqMKl5B0yMn2ihyphenhyphenyiIV3a0IFoD_0vUQnBOq3KQMrTHJP_2TgnKHrC_tvWr9Bts3oNpx-3HEBvB9b9YSuHC/s1600/Uncle+Julios.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2hqlIbuJ3rxUF5UWbyBNpG7s5pq-LmgDrt2BCd7DVKDE3iJ7cl-sOXyiEPObqMKl5B0yMn2ihyphenhyphenyiIV3a0IFoD_0vUQnBOq3KQMrTHJP_2TgnKHrC_tvWr9Bts3oNpx-3HEBvB9b9YSuHC/s320/Uncle+Julios.jpg" width="320" /></a>A visit to Uncle Julio’s -Mexican- from Scratch – Bethesda Avenue,
Bethesda MD <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG6mdt1Jkricj_K6coFXtydKJVbRBQD5U3tmizGyH0G613sna5R8UC76CnwZAOGuQ7U4jSt6edFWbnNRo1WVnalyAKRLrwnKis2cicZSg5hdjkNDGtUzDiqUNJrH78hVWGyf6kTkUdVMJt/s1600/UJ+Tile+Invite.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG6mdt1Jkricj_K6coFXtydKJVbRBQD5U3tmizGyH0G613sna5R8UC76CnwZAOGuQ7U4jSt6edFWbnNRo1WVnalyAKRLrwnKis2cicZSg5hdjkNDGtUzDiqUNJrH78hVWGyf6kTkUdVMJt/s320/UJ+Tile+Invite.jpg" width="320" /></a>We got an invitation in the mail for Cena con Amigos, a complimentary
dinner at Uncle Julio’s Mexican restaurant. And like anyone who is invited, we accepted,
though wondering why a Mexican restaurant chain would invite us for a free
dinner.<o:p></o:p></div>
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While our local Uncle Julio’s has been around for a while,
it seems they are upping their game, with some new food and with their great
service it was a chance to revisit a restaurant that we have not frequented in
a few years.<o:p></o:p></div>
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This special event came with complimentary freshly prepared
table side guacamole for our group of four, and our choice of ten entrees from Fajitas
and tacos to taco salad and Enchilada, non-alcoholic beverages and a tasty
though very doughy desert covered with powdered sugar and served with a honey
dip. While the alcoholic drinks were our responsibility, we did get a chance to
taste a fresh watermelon margarita, which was quite tasty, and will have to
remember to order during the summer months.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOpURr2kVTw7UQ8UaJ2rpwsbayGVC8ZIFsXJbJRVWvlBKlfI03neytBcnCStb9wKT_LrMbET-kpEUB9HtqsndJ_GgHNeb3wnCWxAbypf5z3CcqbG0mddR83GjQGvskFYi87IoCcs3upiCV/s1600/UJCard+Benefits.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOpURr2kVTw7UQ8UaJ2rpwsbayGVC8ZIFsXJbJRVWvlBKlfI03neytBcnCStb9wKT_LrMbET-kpEUB9HtqsndJ_GgHNeb3wnCWxAbypf5z3CcqbG0mddR83GjQGvskFYi87IoCcs3upiCV/s320/UJCard+Benefits.jpg" width="320" /></a>Our selected reservation time was later in the evening, 8pm,
and the restaurant was lively, though not packed we were quickly shown to our
seats. We got a booth by the window, which was great for our little foursome,
larger tables are available for bigger groups, and the place is set up into
multiple dining rooms and a lively bar area, so there is plenty of space. The interior
is well appointed and maintained, not dominated by heavy decoration, as seen in
some other Mexican restaurants.<o:p></o:p></div>
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At the end of our meal, the Manager stopped by to thank us
for coming in for dinner, and introduced us to their Amigo Especial Loyalty
Program. Giving us a card, which will be loaded with a $25 welcome credit for
use the next time we stop in. The Amigo Especial Loyalty Program has a number
of reward levels from free tableside Guacamole on your next visit, to credits
towards complimentary dessert and an appetizer fiesta, as well as priority
seating, all depending on the number of points you earn.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3q6b2O_fA2F5te7mSUrVxveR2RJf5CesZhFXQ5ZymIn1u-kl58HKQfGs0uazi0sg565uivMskcRAoesjQTAiF_GoERklX4mYoH-yIULt2ePOWMjio4HlCykR1mbI0WH77nSTapenb03ay/s1600/UJCard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3q6b2O_fA2F5te7mSUrVxveR2RJf5CesZhFXQ5ZymIn1u-kl58HKQfGs0uazi0sg565uivMskcRAoesjQTAiF_GoERklX4mYoH-yIULt2ePOWMjio4HlCykR1mbI0WH77nSTapenb03ay/s320/UJCard.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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What’s next, for us it will be a regular stop when we are
hankering for some good Mexican from Scratch, and tasty Margaritas.<o:p></o:p><br />
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<a href="http://www.unclejulios.com/">http://www.unclejulios.com/</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://www.unclejulios.com/menu/">http://www.unclejulios.com/menu/</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://www.unclejulios.com/locations/">http://www.unclejulios.com/locations/</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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http://www.unclejulios.com/loyalty/</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfu0VwdDUNf6YFnW0qlWzLdy8JKsWdBqqb8WcYhNJj8nk2yXUVWaclCg1lHUNR5wJQBFTLaUeqMq7ZBj-uBk__nQ8jnhwDTfSXjIKOyE3lTA6-JiwdfKJt-9V0iMeC5h9s_dWTCFYcU7uU/s1600/Uncle+Julios+Friends.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfu0VwdDUNf6YFnW0qlWzLdy8JKsWdBqqb8WcYhNJj8nk2yXUVWaclCg1lHUNR5wJQBFTLaUeqMq7ZBj-uBk__nQ8jnhwDTfSXjIKOyE3lTA6-JiwdfKJt-9V0iMeC5h9s_dWTCFYcU7uU/s320/Uncle+Julios+Friends.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<o:p></o:p>William West Hopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731459759270915266noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8531193075195695125.post-77339022001867143202015-09-30T09:45:00.001-04:002015-09-30T09:45:57.980-04:00Mercedes-Benz's New Mid-Sized Van the Metris<div class="MsoNormal">
Vans, who drives a van anymore? Those relics of the late 20<sup>th</sup>
Century, like blue jeans, both were first designed for work, then morphed into a
cultural icon.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-umy5xtBsGK_gj3EBA_9-c5UudGZRWdnixUFF_SHC0iSzLS8-zzx2dAa_ByJiLhb6fXGAXvNNE_iy64-UClzCH6HO1rcEoiakrJ92YqTYLmEZVBGttqH847d7ksXCE5uHuzPZZLWEDY_C/s1600/IMG_7729.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-umy5xtBsGK_gj3EBA_9-c5UudGZRWdnixUFF_SHC0iSzLS8-zzx2dAa_ByJiLhb6fXGAXvNNE_iy64-UClzCH6HO1rcEoiakrJ92YqTYLmEZVBGttqH847d7ksXCE5uHuzPZZLWEDY_C/s400/IMG_7729.JPG" width="400" /></a>Meet the new Mercedes-Benz Metris, a mid-sized van, not as
large as the Sprinter, and not as small as the competition, the City Express,
NV200 or Transit Connect. Euro style
with American functionality. Combine that with a low price and great handling,
and you might be behind the wheel yourself!<o:p></o:p></div>
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While it is hard to think of this as a hard working van,
that is what it is, and why it is sold by Sprinter dealers, so don’t look for
it in the luxury car Mercedes-Benz showroom. Though it is hard to not think of
it like any other Mercedes-Benz vehicle, as the Metris combines plenty of
standard features, passenger comfort, and Mercedes-Benz handling and ride, ant
this will become the best van in its class. Called the V-Class in Europe, here
in the US, the name Metris fits its use as a Metropolitan vehicle, with a small
foot print, and plenty of interior space, both appreciated by urban users.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiscz3ir-8T127pyNvw3HfMcb2NI38Vpc1RgO1MaD-qShyphenhyphen7WP0GpfNq008wBh-dT1O_wr4nc9NwoAcfjKHdG3lm9BcPjnia5-nSgZsXB3ZeUfJCDkAFZ9OxbMOpw3zZ4aeIgIcGbCa3o44/s1600/IMG_7791.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiscz3ir-8T127pyNvw3HfMcb2NI38Vpc1RgO1MaD-qShyphenhyphen7WP0GpfNq008wBh-dT1O_wr4nc9NwoAcfjKHdG3lm9BcPjnia5-nSgZsXB3ZeUfJCDkAFZ9OxbMOpw3zZ4aeIgIcGbCa3o44/s200/IMG_7791.JPG" width="110" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6VswRvs1vx-Em4hdKUtuXQ676HM-5J2no7fupC9u4pbab3MHG85-pthkYstih0qCN3fCdD5wWbVDpq2YmsZlFmyxs6WJ0xuQ8AARbYHpTp4AC0HaQWya_rnXJrD0Jj8uQfZ9RdPMUHzLz/s1600/IMG_7786.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6VswRvs1vx-Em4hdKUtuXQ676HM-5J2no7fupC9u4pbab3MHG85-pthkYstih0qCN3fCdD5wWbVDpq2YmsZlFmyxs6WJ0xuQ8AARbYHpTp4AC0HaQWya_rnXJrD0Jj8uQfZ9RdPMUHzLz/s320/IMG_7786.JPG" width="320" /></a>The Metris is very much like the C-Class with plenty of
standard features and Mercedes-Benz handling and ride, there is no doubt this
will become the best-selling vehicle in its class. Any M-B driver will feel
comfortable with design of the interior, the switches, radio, and other
operational aspects of the vehicle. The turn signal, and electronic 7-speed
transmission selector stalk are right where they are in a passenger car, and
for those vans equipped with cruise control, that is right where you would
expect it to be. Even the familiar Mercedes-Benz smart key, while not adorned
with chrome, it operates the central locking as any M-B key would.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAkmqg-bHZohYWpplwv_vTcWZSRKWXp6kj3XGOnKrv55Gl60PPN8ZA1qehQ20uYl-1EweO_b4ZR4dYxZI1haYngw-LDV-STqBbzP-dnHvoOIn9B6yFVKbpdLaZnqoGuAKWwdnHaI_Tasvb/s1600/IMG_7795.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAkmqg-bHZohYWpplwv_vTcWZSRKWXp6kj3XGOnKrv55Gl60PPN8ZA1qehQ20uYl-1EweO_b4ZR4dYxZI1haYngw-LDV-STqBbzP-dnHvoOIn9B6yFVKbpdLaZnqoGuAKWwdnHaI_Tasvb/s320/IMG_7795.JPG" width="320" /></a>Like the C-Class, it is powered by the same 2.0 liter 4
cylinder direct injection turbo gasoline engine and 7-speed electronic
transmission, with paddle shifters. Handling and ride are also similar, with its
front engine, rear drive power train. The wide doors and comfortable seats<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"> make this
a very easy vehicle to get in and out of, no climbing up and into this van,
just step in and sit down. Seat coverings, are either cloth or M-B Tex like
leatherette. Good visibility with large outboard mirrors and plenty of window
glass, even in the cargo models, and option rear view camera that displays on
the 5.8” radio screen, just like a </span>Mercedes-Benz passenger car. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Though the engine is noisy, it has no problem quickly
getting up to well past the speed limit and keeping ahead in the left lane. It
is designed to run on regular, it will perform better on 91 octane, with an estimated
combined 23mpg. Service intervals of 15K miles will keep it economical to
operate. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs0N2JvEIoq5CEhKyoAmGMFlRztwf4Or2oE-i7JMW_ELns798VK0tSOliPckw0P2QaeKBfqvRb0vdyCtchnr9VDYgEo3LZd_HgOw_OrdyNxoyr7lzNFbCsczQprkImd6F4IKEbVr_-PyiA/s1600/2015-09-25+15.28.34.mp4" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs0N2JvEIoq5CEhKyoAmGMFlRztwf4Or2oE-i7JMW_ELns798VK0tSOliPckw0P2QaeKBfqvRb0vdyCtchnr9VDYgEo3LZd_HgOw_OrdyNxoyr7lzNFbCsczQprkImd6F4IKEbVr_-PyiA/s1600/2015-09-25+15.28.34.mp4" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Park Assist, where the Van will park itself with some help<br />from the driver. An option found on expensive luxury cars.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The two places where this van will beat the competition, is
the amount of interior space and the fact that the cargo model will now become
the lowest price Mercedes-Benz model sold in the USA. The passenger version is
only $32,500 all with standard blind spot, collision and lane keeping assist
and electronic stability program. You can add Parking Assist, for $740 as an
individual option. Like on the S-Class the vehicle will park itself, with a
little help from you. Plenty of optional packages and equipment to customize
this van, including a number of no-cost colors, other than just white and
black.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEKdwdweyoBn5PkDPb9tY2c1P7eLpGRrYHKJfBnL_hgAHsyNuMUAJDEJ_qx2RNThzPZpcSAG8TwIJ2DMQREyCyZbvwRxJOkGvtiuGchB1QcuNEvMpKJ7PxbfyRopGaFI1596VyHq9NS2_j/s1600/IMG_7693.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEKdwdweyoBn5PkDPb9tY2c1P7eLpGRrYHKJfBnL_hgAHsyNuMUAJDEJ_qx2RNThzPZpcSAG8TwIJ2DMQREyCyZbvwRxJOkGvtiuGchB1QcuNEvMpKJ7PxbfyRopGaFI1596VyHq9NS2_j/s320/IMG_7693.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="176" /></a>This will be an economical, comfortable and very functional
little hauler, be it for cargo or passengers, and at the under $30K price point
for a base cargo model, the most inexpensive vehicle sold in the USA
Mercedes-Benz line up. Take a test drive and experience it for yourself. </div>
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Plenty of interior room in the Cargo Model for hauling!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_v_tJToQm8LRPWGBHXkmEtuSs1gJWpMjzarpVt5zJ0vUsiUpBXUEm0xYe2xv63rF9Lrb96bY3f9qwTZ9tb_g7fZZKBkugeS5FR1Ob8YRN3hs3miIo5mJVN-6nDovcWAoSQCjzw7VSseVX/s1600/IMG_7781.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_v_tJToQm8LRPWGBHXkmEtuSs1gJWpMjzarpVt5zJ0vUsiUpBXUEm0xYe2xv63rF9Lrb96bY3f9qwTZ9tb_g7fZZKBkugeS5FR1Ob8YRN3hs3miIo5mJVN-6nDovcWAoSQCjzw7VSseVX/s400/IMG_7781.JPG" width="220" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk2vWQDY5Le9uB32vUorUtjev0VPx3DdLAWkMfaRYFM3YUSaxhy00qUZot0iAn2na-yk2z77pIOb0HFy7W6m7qLzgCoxbA8gl6OHfXsmZHS10F8owML26gA8CEnQinx-aVHht4Fl3BjK5n/s1600/IMG_7785.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk2vWQDY5Le9uB32vUorUtjev0VPx3DdLAWkMfaRYFM3YUSaxhy00qUZot0iAn2na-yk2z77pIOb0HFy7W6m7qLzgCoxbA8gl6OHfXsmZHS10F8owML26gA8CEnQinx-aVHht4Fl3BjK5n/s320/IMG_7785.JPG" width="178" /></a><br />
Lots of tie down hooks and an innovative floor and wall track system to attach various items to.<br />
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Between the tie down hooks and the track, you can secure just about any load.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNuRrHqXOwp6He6z6fmmH6XfS2-lBO-FUnkyN0DTCJ9siOim9NbOtwYuA9pl0LZ3gh-HxCx2gWiIYfBQIlGKTzBHoEYz-U0MeDlSQ9ORWZP_sup9uUHEUQl0nEOqB4E-amcznN4jq1s3mZ/s1600/20150924_164702.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNuRrHqXOwp6He6z6fmmH6XfS2-lBO-FUnkyN0DTCJ9siOim9NbOtwYuA9pl0LZ3gh-HxCx2gWiIYfBQIlGKTzBHoEYz-U0MeDlSQ9ORWZP_sup9uUHEUQl0nEOqB4E-amcznN4jq1s3mZ/s320/20150924_164702.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
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The Metris has a the Mercedes-Benz Star front and Center.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKbNS1B5dG7fu4DIqqW7YhzlY3vrnW5M7toamaMtQP3Wkvi7w2rxxvDHb8XJ337d_Q3DWQ8R1AVno6pDAGznYDT7m2r9brazWZ4VnQhyphenhyphengQ8JZXJ8EyUfV4IcV_ARZ5KbjBsIbnKbr4mc6l/s1600/IMG_7741.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKbNS1B5dG7fu4DIqqW7YhzlY3vrnW5M7toamaMtQP3Wkvi7w2rxxvDHb8XJ337d_Q3DWQ8R1AVno6pDAGznYDT7m2r9brazWZ4VnQhyphenhyphengQ8JZXJ8EyUfV4IcV_ARZ5KbjBsIbnKbr4mc6l/s320/IMG_7741.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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The Mercedes-Benz Metris has a classic van look and timeless profile that will look good for years to come. Just like other M-B models had done for decades.<br />
<o:p></o:p>William West Hopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731459759270915266noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8531193075195695125.post-47121698457829223652015-09-21T10:33:00.000-04:002015-11-07T15:04:06.350-05:00Tires and Technology, Your Car’s Connection to the Road.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIZEX7iAL7tCoW0Pyg1yowisftq5E7XACqiKjpiArM4mZvhQ4IE3TY5qjtIMErZu4WZqfY1TAdrBTUAeDo4oe08tPfeTuCJ4aF_XZ5rRxCEP4Df1HZ8vyKBT4QiVnXpaqjyQe2NmWWMV1G/s1600/20150825_163646.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIZEX7iAL7tCoW0Pyg1yowisftq5E7XACqiKjpiArM4mZvhQ4IE3TY5qjtIMErZu4WZqfY1TAdrBTUAeDo4oe08tPfeTuCJ4aF_XZ5rRxCEP4Df1HZ8vyKBT4QiVnXpaqjyQe2NmWWMV1G/s320/20150825_163646.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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How much tire keeps your Car or Truck on the Road! Think about it, in reality it is not that
much between your car and the road, about the size of four palm prints, one for
each tire. Look at the palm of your
hand, and that is your cars footprint in four places. In essence those four
patches of rubber is all that keeps your car on the road. That small amount of
space is what keeps a couple of tons of moving machine with you and your family
inside, safe and on the road.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Aefjgu9X_O2Ut8E5yAu2xRCyliE4J20zvyCiUgUYZPjHv9LCWsnuaP3gVLo4IazJe1Oj8h_cL7Y8zEeQaNkWQ9pNWjKrQJxXjuUHbCGMasd7XdKOtza7KBHXVyCdWFS7c4_U5nkp_HE0/s1600/IMG_7322.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Aefjgu9X_O2Ut8E5yAu2xRCyliE4J20zvyCiUgUYZPjHv9LCWsnuaP3gVLo4IazJe1Oj8h_cL7Y8zEeQaNkWQ9pNWjKrQJxXjuUHbCGMasd7XdKOtza7KBHXVyCdWFS7c4_U5nkp_HE0/s320/IMG_7322.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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How those tires are engineered and made is the difference of
how those four patches of rubber keep you on the road. What is the first thing
you think of when you drive over that pothole on the highway? “Ouch!” Is my first
response, as the car jumps and bounds out of the pothole and on its way, then again
as the back tire hits the same spot, yep I am sure that I will have two flats
within a few miles. How does that black doughnut withstand that and still come
out round and full of air?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0piMX5gBZ3kjJ3UefpRMhAcXbwnTNXCSTmKZfcHf9jJDy0q7o-LeLcb07bsB5Os-152Ma-PhRjrQQKkbqj2FewxhMAE3ebXB6jOts7QGFSg_HaAgz2QRWWqoJusbRjfrC_puXFiXRO5TC/s1600/20150825_133941.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0piMX5gBZ3kjJ3UefpRMhAcXbwnTNXCSTmKZfcHf9jJDy0q7o-LeLcb07bsB5Os-152Ma-PhRjrQQKkbqj2FewxhMAE3ebXB6jOts7QGFSg_HaAgz2QRWWqoJusbRjfrC_puXFiXRO5TC/s1600/20150825_133941.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0piMX5gBZ3kjJ3UefpRMhAcXbwnTNXCSTmKZfcHf9jJDy0q7o-LeLcb07bsB5Os-152Ma-PhRjrQQKkbqj2FewxhMAE3ebXB6jOts7QGFSg_HaAgz2QRWWqoJusbRjfrC_puXFiXRO5TC/s320/20150825_133941.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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We found out that there is more to tires than just looking
good on your car when – BFGoodrich® Tires, invited us to one of their dealer
training events designed to educate tire dealers on their main products. BFG
has been making tires since the end of the 19<sup>th</sup> Century, while its
hardworking history may not be as fancy as some of the designer brands of
tires, the BFG brand is a part of the Michelin family, keeping its American
tough guy heritage.</div>
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Known to the Off-Road 4X4 Community for their All-Terrain
T/A® KO2 tire, – BFGoodrich® Tires, <a href="http://www.bfgoodrichtires.com/">http://www.bfgoodrichtires.com/</a> they
also offer street as well as competition tires.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizEdih5HGHr-mDCZMOiN0hcKhzVhgT7vkLVsQrvDyJSgEyi4Fw_fzZenkGDMgobjmZrx6A8OWEY6l4ZyXNFxXtvfgSZGfgRcv-QEDl9WHGNqyrUrLnONVjUXw5kxqvJFyTnf5uN0IFh3lt/s1600/20150825_163706.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizEdih5HGHr-mDCZMOiN0hcKhzVhgT7vkLVsQrvDyJSgEyi4Fw_fzZenkGDMgobjmZrx6A8OWEY6l4ZyXNFxXtvfgSZGfgRcv-QEDl9WHGNqyrUrLnONVjUXw5kxqvJFyTnf5uN0IFh3lt/s320/20150825_163706.jpg" width="180" /></a>Aggressive traction be it in snow, mud, on road or off road,
is key to moving as well as stopping, better grip in mud and snow, Side-Biter
lugs in the sidewall improve traction in mud, snow and rocks. Raised bars in
the shoulder help release compacted mud for better traction in soft soil. 3-D
sipes create biting edges for better snow traction. With 3 Peak Mountain Snowflake
symbol, indicating the Rubber Manufacturer Association’s severe snow traction
requirements. The BFG KO2 tire has 10 percent greater traction in the mud and
19 percent greater traction in the snow4 compared to the previous-generation
tire.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Durability is equally important with the KO2 lasting twice
as long on gravel roads and 15 percent longer on asphalt, (think of a gravel
road is very rough sandpaper, and asphalt is finishing sandpaper, both scrub
off the tread.) The KO2 has a new tread design and rubber formulation that gives
it better tread life, helping it to last twice as long on gravel and 15 percent
longer on asphalt than the previous tire. The tread rubber has been optimally
blended to reduce chips and tears on gravel. The footprint shape and interlocking
tread design provide more uniform wear over the long haul. Special stone
ejectors push objects out of the tread to reduce drilling into the tire.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The BFGoodrich® All-Terrain T/A® KO2 tire incorporates
race-proven and race-winning CoreGard™ technology for split and
bruise-resistant sidewall rubber, and a thicker, extended shoulder to prevent
sidewall failures, giving it unmatched toughness. Twenty percent stronger sidewalls
are critical in off-road performance. The BFG KO2 sidewalls are designed to
deflect protruding objects, reducing the chances of splits and snags.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Off Road Tires are not the only products BFGoodrich has to
offer. The same is engineered into their high performance tire, the gForce™
COMP-2™ A/S. Incorporating a Performance Racing Core (PRC) that delivers crisp
responsive control while cornering hard, on wet, dry or light snow covered
roads. Delivering wet and dry traction, stopping up to 15 feet shorter on wet
roads and up to 5 feet shorter on dry roads, with better snow traction. Technology
directly derived from track tires and optimizes the contact patch (that spot
the size of your palm,) for enhanced traction at speed for increased
acceleration, while adding sidewall stiffness to resist deflection for immediate
turning response, while still maintaining ride comfort. <o:p></o:p></div>
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UltiGrip™ Technology: The g-Force™ COMP- 2™ A/S is made with
a high-silica, cold-weather flexing compound designed for the best wet and dry
grip, with all-season traction. This combined with Directional Tread Design and
V-shaped angled lateral and longitudinal grooves optimize rubber-to-road
contact for ultimate dry grip while efficiently evacuating water for better wet
traction.<o:p></o:p></div>
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G-Force™ Tread: With advanced mold design and a performance
tread profile evenly distributes stresses across the tire footprint improving
long-term wear, as well as resisting irregular wear typically associated with
directional tread designs.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Performance Racing Core (PRC): ETEC System™ (Equal Tension
Containment System), Dynamic Suspension System (DSS), and g-Control™ Sidewall
Inserts provide a reinforced internal structure that increases control while
maintaining ride comfort and added sidewall stiffness to resist deflection for
immediate turning response.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFJF7p4yQI2Kv1VV_Xxwuzww7n9I7zbQ_QWAbRXZf8i8vpMYNqdodvjKxWj12TjU_zJ4mqTPY0abdSfslxvjY_A1PijVJCtjApigDf85HK-ADnSyh5uFFpjnSQVASLltdgXZTSdYyUl7AW/s1600/20150825_150032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFJF7p4yQI2Kv1VV_Xxwuzww7n9I7zbQ_QWAbRXZf8i8vpMYNqdodvjKxWj12TjU_zJ4mqTPY0abdSfslxvjY_A1PijVJCtjApigDf85HK-ADnSyh5uFFpjnSQVASLltdgXZTSdYyUl7AW/s320/20150825_150032.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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BFGoodrich® Tires now boasts two of the highest performing
all-seasons tires in their respective tire categories. Engineered from
BFGoodrich’s rich heritage of pavement racing and motorsports technology, BFG
knows that performance seeking drivers demand the same attributes in a tire on
the street in all seasons. BFGoodrich Tires’ UltiGrip™ Technology and g-Force™
Tread provide enhanced wet and dry traction, optimized rubber-to-road contact
and the ultimate grip in hard cornering for control all year long.<o:p></o:p></div>
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For more information about the BFGoodrich® Tires g-Force™
COMP-2™ A/S tire, please visit <a href="http://www.bfgoodrichtires.com/">http://www.bfgoodrichtires.com</a>.</div>
<o:p></o:p>William West Hopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731459759270915266noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8531193075195695125.post-32413878760294403092015-06-25T12:40:00.004-04:002015-06-25T13:21:13.834-04:00Wilderness does not mean living without luxury<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT14BciccFf9ioat06CvmqaimjziyA2H9zECY_Fv6OgCzAFmS2J_3k8cBuwzgVrDLNEsqHpV6CrdqqSJNqZ5iiesQtGUb9RzHA7y-529uqzfnDiEaao_-e8XV8NwqoRXGkP2GJJMMUEXCW/s1600/dunton-hot-springs-frame.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT14BciccFf9ioat06CvmqaimjziyA2H9zECY_Fv6OgCzAFmS2J_3k8cBuwzgVrDLNEsqHpV6CrdqqSJNqZ5iiesQtGUb9RzHA7y-529uqzfnDiEaao_-e8XV8NwqoRXGkP2GJJMMUEXCW/s320/dunton-hot-springs-frame.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<span style="text-align: center;">Going into the wilderness does not mean being without
luxury. We recently went “Glamping” in
the San Juan Mountains of Colorado at Dunton Hot Springs just outside of Dolores
Colorado, and found out that you can be at one with nature and also be in the
lap of luxury, all at the same time. While remote we found it relazing and amazing to be in the middle of nowhere.</span><br />
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Owned by a European family who use it for an American
get-a-way. When they have not booked the 12-plus cabin property complete with a
Teepee and hot spring bath house for their personal use, it is available for private or corporate
uses. Though you may just want to bring yourself, friends and your immediate family and spend a few days off the grid.</div>
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few miles down the dirt road where posh tents on platforms provide
additional suites for guests to stay the night. These tents are fully equipted with all modern amenties, yes, that includes indoor plumbing, which is more elegant than most five-star hotels.</div>
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While we were there a high-line automobile manufacturer was pressenting their line of up-scale recreational vehicles and other trucks to the automotive press. In addition
to tents and cabins we were able to stay aboard some pretty amazing and well equipped
RVs. <br />
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While you may not be so inclined to spend much time in your rustic abode while at Dunton, they do offer you elegant comfort with
many refined touches including world-class food and libations. while your cabin has high end showers, western furnishings, and monogramed robe and slippers. All in what was once a booming 19<sup>th</sup> century gold mining town deep in the Rocky Mountains.</div>
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spring, and of course sip some wine in the town saloon, with a world class Chef behind the stove,
and some of the most amazing food and drink, you can indulge in the cowboy life
without really missing the necessities of big city living.</div>
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hour or so from Telluride, and not far from Aspen, the location is well removed
from the hectic pace of civilization, with no cellular phone or data service, though
thankfully the village does have Wi-Fi. So make sure your Skype Account is
funded, or your friends have FaceTime if you want to make a phone call, or
bring a satellite phone to keep in touch with the outside world. And do not expect to be able to find a
television except in a couple of cabins.</div>
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While you may want to go just to get away from it all,
there is plenty to see and do right on the property without having to leave. From
a short walk to a wonderfully relaxing waterfall, to hiking, horseback riding
or some fishing. <span style="font-size: 13.5pt; line-height: 107%;">Even
just a walk around the property is an experience in nature.</span> Thinking about what it was like living and
working here during its hey-day in the late 1800's, makes you appreciate the
life we have with today's conveniences.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixBKZXSI2kzIeVR2nUFkH17aUuvBWJ6vwGfCKd8uekpt1nYwmuaXVOYEBWQTy_bmCCZzrV7ixNxWPSdDSM4AAzgAo7Tq7ftPRg7KGfvwERQCKd7rYhg4BuiC3ggHiDSC-nkfJpNBlYFgt2/s1600/MercedesBenz_VanCamp_137.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixBKZXSI2kzIeVR2nUFkH17aUuvBWJ6vwGfCKd8uekpt1nYwmuaXVOYEBWQTy_bmCCZzrV7ixNxWPSdDSM4AAzgAo7Tq7ftPRg7KGfvwERQCKd7rYhg4BuiC3ggHiDSC-nkfJpNBlYFgt2/s320/MercedesBenz_VanCamp_137.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4g0V7iTPOCRL2AmeZn5D50xlMyh6htfrALhpfoHvhabVhF69WkbpnxXJ76CZqE5emzPP7bV9vFirzO3IMIH-oAmLglVk39ZkzgIIdZ3pHq6DQxa9ldNuXKZJL58zDOleE08oTA-W6LkZf/s1600/2015-06-02+08.14.12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4g0V7iTPOCRL2AmeZn5D50xlMyh6htfrALhpfoHvhabVhF69WkbpnxXJ76CZqE5emzPP7bV9vFirzO3IMIH-oAmLglVk39ZkzgIIdZ3pHq6DQxa9ldNuXKZJL58zDOleE08oTA-W6LkZf/s200/2015-06-02+08.14.12.jpg" width="112" /></a>Seeing another human being is rarer than seeing the local heard of cattle moving to a new grazing pasture!
The village of Dunton is set in a field between two mountain peaks, and you will find plenty of creatures ever present, including snakes, (not the biting kind) rabbits,
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paved roads are the way to get between the nearby major population centers. </div>
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Just standing on the porch of your cabin and taking in the
views is enough to lower your blood pressure and breathing the clean mountain
air, and bathing in the hot mineral waters of the indoor or outdoor hot springs
will no doubt improve your health, if only your perception of it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4GYZtHNMkM8rZh-rXMk3-9bwelS1OYjOf7eI1FILdrbRnL8MKGfd3NEJaOP46WeI1djePsLa1N2N8YOOGxiTCaHo-H9DyNJW2hdMz1tmmiaIlVc_T8BtA7eyFTMFR24IZmmBHOvSxvQss/s1600/2015-06-02+20.09.05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4GYZtHNMkM8rZh-rXMk3-9bwelS1OYjOf7eI1FILdrbRnL8MKGfd3NEJaOP46WeI1djePsLa1N2N8YOOGxiTCaHo-H9DyNJW2hdMz1tmmiaIlVc_T8BtA7eyFTMFR24IZmmBHOvSxvQss/s320/2015-06-02+20.09.05.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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While this may not be the resort for everyone, it welcomes children and pets, making it a perfect family get-a-way to
reflect and connect with nature. Nightly
rates for the cabins run from $600 to $2,000.
Though you might want to rent out the entire town and camp which runs
from $21,000 to $36,000 per night. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcF6viu_aVMt5Njy24Egkf5hYbCVIuFYVHApWmGzJ2fOgL4DRSi1NAsMSawaqtRQWZ3hao9J9CoJePki0FetyWdOXgjjfWOwMAOKQt2QfiEuMARdOFd6qprIp4E1pi0F8xqn6XjPd7U1tM/s1600/2015-06-02+20.28.00.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcF6viu_aVMt5Njy24Egkf5hYbCVIuFYVHApWmGzJ2fOgL4DRSi1NAsMSawaqtRQWZ3hao9J9CoJePki0FetyWdOXgjjfWOwMAOKQt2QfiEuMARdOFd6qprIp4E1pi0F8xqn6XjPd7U1tM/s320/2015-06-02+20.28.00.jpg" width="320" /></a>Make sure you add on for the excellent food
they offer, with an experienced Chef on staff, you will not get cowboy grub,
more like sophisticated big city meals made from local farm fresh ingredients. Served in the saloon, or go ahead and have a cookout, they indeed cater to any need you may have. And do it in very fine style.</div>
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For more information <a href="http://duntonhotsprings.com/">http://duntonhotsprings.com/</a> Including rates, location, and lots of great photographs.<o:p></o:p><br />
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To check out their webcam: <a href="http://duntonhotsprings.com/webcam/">http://duntonhotsprings.com/webcam/</a> Though it may be redirected or turned off
depending on who is camping at any specific time.</div>
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- William West Hopper </div>
</div>
William West Hopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731459759270915266noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8531193075195695125.post-17537165598427903522013-07-11T20:52:00.003-04:002013-07-11T20:52:27.573-04:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif04lv32RyvxvO7XaWmRJ8qV-3fvke1GtM2hv-WQsu1Q4TMp5spLvmNgo-AojuWAL15B33zvFrRDYcKzfLMM8uRCtW4mQE6g1Hn64-cnhkjIx5kUspH8Qmef6sPiX3zkj9ZG9KMgESAUqq/s1600/IMG_1054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="353" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif04lv32RyvxvO7XaWmRJ8qV-3fvke1GtM2hv-WQsu1Q4TMp5spLvmNgo-AojuWAL15B33zvFrRDYcKzfLMM8uRCtW4mQE6g1Hn64-cnhkjIx5kUspH8Qmef6sPiX3zkj9ZG9KMgESAUqq/s640/IMG_1054.JPG" width="640" /></a><span lang="EN"></span><br />
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The GLK, first with a face-lift in 2013, and now a new diesel engine this model year, has become a staple in the Mercedes-Benz model line up. We had the opportunity to try this new diesel in an afternoon test drive, thanks to fellow MBCA member and Euro Motorcars Bethesda Sales Professional, Eric Scott.</div>
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At first glance,the GLK 250 doesn’t look like an SUV because it has such a short overall length. I kept pulling up too far in parking places and at fuel pumps, especially because I am used to driving the longer ML. The GLK rides like a C Class Sports Sedan, a little rough on patched pavement but just as nimble with a great with a great turning radius. This, combined with the short length, makes the GLK a perfect urban vehicle.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu66h8DtRsi_g_1Okvvp1qPVFhBKbBv8TzDjNmhB6R6Nujgc5rllQ4LZANRLgJE0Z7ktq3wpZtYpmy3hVqWr5G0WF2QcJUUtcsZmpJ1613abXjBHY_PxVmjOXBET6guw8Kd934xl8TZ3kK/s1600/IMG_1019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="177" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu66h8DtRsi_g_1Okvvp1qPVFhBKbBv8TzDjNmhB6R6Nujgc5rllQ4LZANRLgJE0Z7ktq3wpZtYpmy3hVqWr5G0WF2QcJUUtcsZmpJ1613abXjBHY_PxVmjOXBET6guw8Kd934xl8TZ3kK/s320/IMG_1019.JPG" width="320" /></a>This model is equipped with a turbo-charged, four-cylinder, direct injection BlueTEC diesel engine. I found this intriguing. This is not the "olde tyme" diesel engine! There’s no hint that this car is powered by an oil burner. In fact, you need to remember to get in line at the "diesel only" fuel line, and use the fuel with the green-handled nozzle! The prominently green filler cap labeled "Diesel Only" and the sign on the inside of the fuel door on the right side of the car are also helpful reminders!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicRE0rig4iSy1Paa-Sg6e7OxwlyvHcW38NnEBxWrpx6ecxE4Ha4CwPU56mPD1fYvNop-eEarYNgZEjaFOVNm2zGX59al1r-AxMnK_yZohXGkmsVCosbpprD8iPOlzkfcc39WvJ5B9mmEb1/s1600/IMG_1082.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicRE0rig4iSy1Paa-Sg6e7OxwlyvHcW38NnEBxWrpx6ecxE4Ha4CwPU56mPD1fYvNop-eEarYNgZEjaFOVNm2zGX59al1r-AxMnK_yZohXGkmsVCosbpprD8iPOlzkfcc39WvJ5B9mmEb1/s200/IMG_1082.JPG" width="111" /></a>Riding in the GLK does not give much indication of the diesel power either. There is no smoke, very little turbo lag and minimal engine chattering. The lag was easily compensated for by feathering the accelerator, and there were only occasional sounds of clattering, as if someone were clacking drumsticks together in the distance.</div>
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When the GLK came out in 2010, I found the exterior styling too boxy and not reminiscent of other M-B SUVs in the line up. Other M-B models look similar to their bigger cousins. However, the GLK looks nothing like the ML, GL or even the über square and boxy G-wagon, nor does it have the graceful, classic Mercedes-Benz lines of the C-Class wagons.</div>
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Driving the GLK on DC city streets and the local parkways showed that it can handle some tough driving conditions without issue. It has nice engine performance and great fuel mileage—an average of 23 mpg on the day we drove it. Driving the GLK on rough, unpaved park roads along the Potomac demonstrated that is was every bit a Mercedes-Benz with a solid ride and handling. This 4MATIC model was light and responsive to the touch, with just a tad bit of torque steer.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikfGJsTACZB0PZVZUVPn5mVyBYCVLj5RKgUrLYYDRFHJbGgOswR0y7-LJ2SNCFjvr3f2Ekilo2W1d4s7fxs9GXTA_q_mbmWaounT0wAyt6534cDtkENSTY-CmwdA3IJjoRxdeuVhrlP2zm/s1600/IMG_1024.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikfGJsTACZB0PZVZUVPn5mVyBYCVLj5RKgUrLYYDRFHJbGgOswR0y7-LJ2SNCFjvr3f2Ekilo2W1d4s7fxs9GXTA_q_mbmWaounT0wAyt6534cDtkENSTY-CmwdA3IJjoRxdeuVhrlP2zm/s320/IMG_1024.JPG" width="320" /></a>The turning radius is impressive, especially for a four-wheel drive vehicle. Acceleration was good, not AMG style that throws you into the back seat, but still plenty of giddy up and go to get around that slow poke puttering in the fast lane. Secure handling gives peace of ming that this little SUV is going where you’ve asked it to go. The onboard computer system will tell you if it thinks you are not qualified to go where you think you want to.</div>
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When I spent a little too much time looking at the scenery on the Clara Barton Parkway, the lane keep assist kicked in, and I got the steering wheel vibration nudge. The park assist and side assist let you know when you are too close to anything that might interfere with your forward or backward movement. The rear camera was a great help, even if it does stay on for 100 feet after the car is going forward, just to let you see if, indeed, you ran over something.</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh42iBN78Tk5oOQrmFMH5Zo0b0ct4PqKWTPR7vIumP5WlxkgpvVyaEhBNROewf9kBEYgMNrTptyfxb4DFR7fHJaH3ghJNrVj_blWnmw330mNFk6gTEwruAyJWJKbjcxn-7ZyTXaU1-yib4G/s1600/IMG_1025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh42iBN78Tk5oOQrmFMH5Zo0b0ct4PqKWTPR7vIumP5WlxkgpvVyaEhBNROewf9kBEYgMNrTptyfxb4DFR7fHJaH3ghJNrVj_blWnmw330mNFk6gTEwruAyJWJKbjcxn-7ZyTXaU1-yib4G/s320/IMG_1025.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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Interior instrumentation, radio/navi and seating is directly related to the current generation W204C Class. My only complaint is that the HVAC controls are a tad out of reach, so that the driver’s eyes leave the road to change the settings.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEGTvJHvzrj13X8XAPXpbzONH74sLXenBeBXcC3jBtLsDqRbyMdbI1cSnYHNAnjHp4E-7ADe0U_J63NyV7L2EV9eeRAP4-gT0tqN7AjTCFAQtvRXRfYsofu80OTt_ifkjt__a6h3vLvCCw/s1600/IMG_1030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEGTvJHvzrj13X8XAPXpbzONH74sLXenBeBXcC3jBtLsDqRbyMdbI1cSnYHNAnjHp4E-7ADe0U_J63NyV7L2EV9eeRAP4-gT0tqN7AjTCFAQtvRXRfYsofu80OTt_ifkjt__a6h3vLvCCw/s320/IMG_1030.JPG" width="179" /></a>Seating and ergonomics are comfortable. The rear seats fold down, and the boxiness of the body allows for a large hatch opening. There is plenty of room inside to carry what you bring home from the big box store or the local farmer’s market.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6wl4w9WvwrnoX_oYakE4BsR3vyaexJYpzH9xEAB2F9dGvuWAHVDnOwqGyHx5oJwpjEiVX5ZSY3t6zTmUHIeZ-bR6WRpOXp7BXCCOaZnBZDux7pnKAiui9HHTO4hBlZHHzaUeSLCeWRyT3/s1600/IMG_1061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6wl4w9WvwrnoX_oYakE4BsR3vyaexJYpzH9xEAB2F9dGvuWAHVDnOwqGyHx5oJwpjEiVX5ZSY3t6zTmUHIeZ-bR6WRpOXp7BXCCOaZnBZDux7pnKAiui9HHTO4hBlZHHzaUeSLCeWRyT3/s320/IMG_1061.JPG" width="320" /></a>If you are in the market for an urban hauler with good fuel economy and a comfortable ride with all the qualities of a Mercedes-Benz, the GLK 250 is certainly worth taking out for a test drive of your own! - William West Hopper<br />
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William West Hopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731459759270915266noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8531193075195695125.post-39470579866517371422012-07-05T10:41:00.000-04:002012-07-05T10:41:06.575-04:00<span lang="EN"><h2 align="CENTER" dir="LTR">
The Daily Driver’s Practical Car</h2>
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2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 350</h3>
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<span style="color: black;">I have to admit, my first thoughts were that I was not going to like this car. The preconceived notions were that it was a SLS wannabe, small inside, basically a chick car. Those were quickly dissolved on the 1,000 mile, two-day drive to North Carolina for an MBCA event to tour the legendary Hendrick Mostorsports NASCAR facility.</span></div>
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My first thought was; "Is it practical? Well after driving it and getting very good fuel economy and engine performance, practical may need a better definition! The second, "Is it a chick car?"Although women are attracted to the SLK, and do drive them, men do not lose their masculinity by driving the SLK, as they may with the competitors, the Porsche Boxter and the Audi TT. Within a few miles, there was no question this is a driver’s car, the SLK is nimble, and powerful, it goes where you point it!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ76guOJscaV05rgOwdeDJ4dWzVeMGnpLzL8unsYXRQgKtFBT-dd5hQ90clSK7xu4bYPqr-IpTGa0Rc81wQ-FNVIsK9ijGr5rtWm0vSO6o9fHFVeBkzF61CIZ-F0_B-nNrDh2qR0YpvRe6/s1600/DSC03722.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ76guOJscaV05rgOwdeDJ4dWzVeMGnpLzL8unsYXRQgKtFBT-dd5hQ90clSK7xu4bYPqr-IpTGa0Rc81wQ-FNVIsK9ijGr5rtWm0vSO6o9fHFVeBkzF61CIZ-F0_B-nNrDh2qR0YpvRe6/s200/DSC03722.JPG" width="200" /></a>The look of the car is very iconic, even more so now, with the arrival of the new 2013 SL. This truly is a little brother in the line with the SLS and SL. Color and options play a big difference in the experience of any car, the deep black (no cost) exterior and black interior with aluminum trim (no cost option) made this car look quite stealth like. This SLK had the aluminum roll bar trim delete (takes $150 off the price) and is worth doing to keep the monochromatic look. Upgrading the wheels to one of the AMG options will make this car stand out even more.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjFBBpWXBVeDSDXMw1VwORekiNW4BG9GqKJyxATlxC4EgqqSXezVZk_C2iQAlQ9c0aFCO_kNOXV34ejaz3bsTh0oGr9sk6OH5IkQMqjY7FU6dViaRhFhcY0bCyA89LnsyH-9XhaFruKNcW/s1600/DSC03797.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjFBBpWXBVeDSDXMw1VwORekiNW4BG9GqKJyxATlxC4EgqqSXezVZk_C2iQAlQ9c0aFCO_kNOXV34ejaz3bsTh0oGr9sk6OH5IkQMqjY7FU6dViaRhFhcY0bCyA89LnsyH-9XhaFruKNcW/s200/DSC03797.JPG" width="200" /></a>Upon getting into the driver’s seat I was impressed at how roomy it was; the dash and controls are well laid out,the seats allow you to stretch out with infinitely adjustable backs. The air scarf in the top of the seat blew heated or cooled air on our necks and shoulders, and, as odd as that sounds, it was very comfortable. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMZt6XeN7behwMDCFMVHNqL5uV20XXSsm-wdZk2NIRxw7f7I2RZLGAFnbzBgugSEoGLW8fX1XBDy0gfSQ8aOq7YQKmkMXh3izD3USREZGaKXnOgdszvqEVLeMN9T5ZrCf0Mkc-rScA4OBC/s1600/2012-04-26_13-48-46_657.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="111" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMZt6XeN7behwMDCFMVHNqL5uV20XXSsm-wdZk2NIRxw7f7I2RZLGAFnbzBgugSEoGLW8fX1XBDy0gfSQ8aOq7YQKmkMXh3izD3USREZGaKXnOgdszvqEVLeMN9T5ZrCf0Mkc-rScA4OBC/s200/2012-04-26_13-48-46_657.jpg" width="200" /></a>Interior volume was more than I expected. Any sports car, coupe or cabriolet is not going to be as roomy as the ML that I drive on a daily basis. The seating and leg and head room were perfectly comfortable, though the seat bottom can become tiring on a six-hour ride. Driving a sports car this size, you do not need to bring along anything but your driver’s license and bail money!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbeY65ChYN_x15vokdMTywiT9499_PJvDxlL5MK6PtzP-Wzv9IGb8iwtXplXkva3qe9J5ENR-J_W3IQEgxGomaFqTeG9Ar_lZ14jZmbWpmUq2gDa8DdgvBYOU9AVqnSvXuvwEcDt3X9dO_/s1600/DSC03807.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbeY65ChYN_x15vokdMTywiT9499_PJvDxlL5MK6PtzP-Wzv9IGb8iwtXplXkva3qe9J5ENR-J_W3IQEgxGomaFqTeG9Ar_lZ14jZmbWpmUq2gDa8DdgvBYOU9AVqnSvXuvwEcDt3X9dO_/s200/DSC03807.JPG" width="200" /></a>As far as engine performance, driving both the Interstate as well as back roads, I found the 350 engine had power to spare, which demonstrated itself during a long hill climb on I77 in Northwestern North Carolina, passing a 7 series BMW. There was as much power as needed, and more when asked for! I did not expect much fuel economy with my lead foot, but the SLK averaged a respectable 27.5 average mpg for the trip.</div>
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The ride was sporty OK, I will even say rough- definitely more athletic than I am used to in my M or C Class! Not that I expected the soft ride of an S Class! It is, after all a small sports car!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Gz9S8-hPspLhu0yWzi5_Nw7MSAODQuQQXHLDO6nQ2zQ4dST7_Qz8m420RVqbPDu3ZN4LwmNkfaBY4ClALSRP4IyJpLRs-H_6Is0eg4An3Zhp6fwNxV8kMywXgQ9mzbWOs8LVLZtd3-6z/s1600/DSC03725.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1Gz9S8-hPspLhu0yWzi5_Nw7MSAODQuQQXHLDO6nQ2zQ4dST7_Qz8m420RVqbPDu3ZN4LwmNkfaBY4ClALSRP4IyJpLRs-H_6Is0eg4An3Zhp6fwNxV8kMywXgQ9mzbWOs8LVLZtd3-6z/s320/DSC03725.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEGaIKP6gsgWC3PDPXtBKUvGkS28z5_8MeG_FI2oNLpcL8pMpSK1hUNJhl8eh1UkjEZBAPoajkMzbS1o3emYfcpYs6CWoD8cbqgzIcXSL6Ko5QRecG4Opi4OGklqOUKfXHOxqQ0_ohno8V/s1600/DSC03794.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEGaIKP6gsgWC3PDPXtBKUvGkS28z5_8MeG_FI2oNLpcL8pMpSK1hUNJhl8eh1UkjEZBAPoajkMzbS1o3emYfcpYs6CWoD8cbqgzIcXSL6Ko5QRecG4Opi4OGklqOUKfXHOxqQ0_ohno8V/s200/DSC03794.JPG" width="200" /></a>Luggage space is surprisingly roomy, even with the top down; just don’t expect to be able to access much in a fully packed trunk with the top down. Once the top is in place in the trunk, you can only access a few items. Speaking of the top down, who owns a cabriolet without driving it topless? Like any convertible, your hair will be windswept and the noise level increases, but not so much that you cannot have a conversation or listen to the sound system without maxing out the volume.</div>
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<object width="320" height="266" class="BLOGGER-picasa-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk3x_pzeaZXMRkMqj8TErE8JFSkpArHLiBuu-41Qgs116QPLiI0KXPPPVp4-oSoB1Dc5IYJo-4Kn8cUPV3llJVUSA-D31W0HiI5LGqLtFPEKvLBKEM1jpaLuIUYBBSUB64MORlBKr7tmlw/s1600/IMAG0007.MP4"><param name="movie" value="http://video.google.com/googleplayer.swf?videoUrl=http://redirector.googlevideo.com/videoplayback?id%3D1060145b8fb3195d%26itag%3D5%26source%3Dpicasa%26cmo%3Dsensitive_content%253Dyes%26ip%3D0.0.0.0%26ipbits%3D0%26expire%3D1344090824%26sparams%3Did,itag,source,ip,ipbits,expire%26signature%3DD599EFD2CF45203DFF95C9C53629C1BE513A7F58.DAF2A373C01750FE0333C8CD358EA999EC8B01AF%26key%3Dlh1" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://video.google.com/googleplayer.swf?videoUrl=http://redirector.googlevideo.com/videoplayback?id%3D1060145b8fb3195d%26itag%3D5%26source%3Dpicasa%26cmo%3Dsensitive_content%253Dyes%26ip%3D0.0.0.0%26ipbits%3D0%26expire%3D1344090824%26sparams%3Did,itag,source,ip,ipbits,expire%26signature%3DD599EFD2CF45203DFF95C9C53629C1BE513A7F58.DAF2A373C01750FE0333C8CD358EA999EC8B01AF%26key%3Dlh1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object>Considering that this a convertible, the sound performance on the audio system was just fine of course upgrading to the multimedia package would improve it. No question the audio system is designed to support the Apple product line, through the pig tail connector, and an on-screen display of songs. The pig tail was easy to access in the center console, but if you wanted to connect an iPad, the issue would be where to stow it? Droid smart phones are an afterthought, the Bluetooth® connector worked just fine for the phone and playing standard music files. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs_dOa-kBOIMD-qFpAr8CgwCFE3CIhYPNuYDllVaTmIsQLbdP5EojpqfLqrKOqW1KBhLcJ4PSzY2ID-R5cGW0-9dyXLpPCMxUYWbYl5Hp13TpX8keESkvYJkJKF-5PiQUWmC9Yzv-su3Le/s1600/DSC03800.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs_dOa-kBOIMD-qFpAr8CgwCFE3CIhYPNuYDllVaTmIsQLbdP5EojpqfLqrKOqW1KBhLcJ4PSzY2ID-R5cGW0-9dyXLpPCMxUYWbYl5Hp13TpX8keESkvYJkJKF-5PiQUWmC9Yzv-su3Le/s320/DSC03800.JPG" width="240" /></a>It took some intense computer programming of both the phone and the system to program to continuously stream Pandora.</div>
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Pricing for this black-on-black SLK 350 with the Premium 1 package and basic options, sticker was just over $58K. Adding some nice-to-have add-ons will bring it just a little more than $63K. If you are in the market, speak with your favorite Mercedes-Benz dealer and see what incentives and promotions are available at the time of purchase.</div>
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Always remember your Mercedes-Benz Club Member Loyalty bonus of $1,000 off any new M-B for club members who have been members at least one full year! That bonus is on top of the best deal your dealer has for you, so do not forget it! It is available on any new M-B sold in the USA. Log onto the mbca.org website for full details and to print your member savings certificate.</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjynoECyftZ7XWCpVyRjzUX9QLQR6qznyMg1aiNyzIQyCTHxm38Ldp19wVWDEN3g5hkgZZSNJPeWiHWJ5mjKHZlck6ZFrcgGEdXKOl_4o343tPs-l-IxEYrBvnEbhtet3cGwJ3vrMASKLHa/s1600/DSC03528.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjynoECyftZ7XWCpVyRjzUX9QLQR6qznyMg1aiNyzIQyCTHxm38Ldp19wVWDEN3g5hkgZZSNJPeWiHWJ5mjKHZlck6ZFrcgGEdXKOl_4o343tPs-l-IxEYrBvnEbhtet3cGwJ3vrMASKLHa/s200/DSC03528.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
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This is a fun car to drive! I was sad to hand the keys back to the dealership at the end of the trip. I was surprised at how my impression on the car changed in just two days. Practical really depends on your definition. A sporty fuel-efficient car for running around does not have to be a boring mini-car! Nor do you have to drive around every day in a car capable of carrying a month’s worth of groceries. The SLK can be practical, efficient, as well as, attractive and fun to drive!</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzsYAcjaoMeVLwaQIy1S81pT9bWKMA80nYGO7iJJMjV-mrr7GEtbfGSFhBxRXgMD1WymDhZ-FWJpo2_Saa0SRXTTVIMwPnu1v8yLhDv3NWU0dtZ7ASSseUqEDzQZ63kxr4HukvxvbWMpJd/s1600/DSC03724.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzsYAcjaoMeVLwaQIy1S81pT9bWKMA80nYGO7iJJMjV-mrr7GEtbfGSFhBxRXgMD1WymDhZ-FWJpo2_Saa0SRXTTVIMwPnu1v8yLhDv3NWU0dtZ7ASSseUqEDzQZ63kxr4HukvxvbWMpJd/s320/DSC03724.JPG" width="240" /></a></span><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></i></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKgIVqbwmf3aWUY_MRE5ID0gc2udEZkgGGSn5GRzwofwFMgZXZ0YR22WqhwghQ23a6aaY40mMzW23Qs-9qZIRC-LHxN5VWgKxuWHd5PAnCOaT_qSI4I_Ji8-pdSXO8NKjG1YeQ2jGwrw_f/s1600/DSC03723.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKgIVqbwmf3aWUY_MRE5ID0gc2udEZkgGGSn5GRzwofwFMgZXZ0YR22WqhwghQ23a6aaY40mMzW23Qs-9qZIRC-LHxN5VWgKxuWHd5PAnCOaT_qSI4I_Ji8-pdSXO8NKjG1YeQ2jGwrw_f/s200/DSC03723.JPG" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKgIVqbwmf3aWUY_MRE5ID0gc2udEZkgGGSn5GRzwofwFMgZXZ0YR22WqhwghQ23a6aaY40mMzW23Qs-9qZIRC-LHxN5VWgKxuWHd5PAnCOaT_qSI4I_Ji8-pdSXO8NKjG1YeQ2jGwrw_f/s1600/DSC03723.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></h4>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKgIVqbwmf3aWUY_MRE5ID0gc2udEZkgGGSn5GRzwofwFMgZXZ0YR22WqhwghQ23a6aaY40mMzW23Qs-9qZIRC-LHxN5VWgKxuWHd5PAnCOaT_qSI4I_Ji8-pdSXO8NKjG1YeQ2jGwrw_f/s1600/DSC03723.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><h4>
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William Hopper, MBCA Eastern Regional Director thanks Euro Motorcars of Bethesda Maryland for a chance to review the SLK 350.</h4>
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<a href="http://www.eurobethesdamercedes.com/">http://www.eurobethesdamercedes.com/</a></div>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></i><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span>William West Hopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731459759270915266noreply@blogger.com07020 Arlington Rd, Bethesda, MD 20815, USA38.979833 -77.098383738.97829 -77.1008512 38.981376 -77.0959162tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8531193075195695125.post-82931274968227974952012-06-05T18:44:00.000-04:002012-06-05T18:44:08.231-04:00Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance 2012<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFnWuWesKwGnarmPGgW7YbvKRQ2VqEdbmjZdLHcQrX-Cw0Wgae22kIKNpSV0Vh-fYd11nJWqhJKUXLDB3Y-nBPW5hdzXFoYcauTNzCdhJASnaPxOi5RTC5jXnVh2BKXa7sHvbbXs1kxZXc/s1600/DSC03467.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFnWuWesKwGnarmPGgW7YbvKRQ2VqEdbmjZdLHcQrX-Cw0Wgae22kIKNpSV0Vh-fYd11nJWqhJKUXLDB3Y-nBPW5hdzXFoYcauTNzCdhJASnaPxOi5RTC5jXnVh2BKXa7sHvbbXs1kxZXc/s200/DSC03467.JPG" width="200" /></a><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="color: #002654; font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";"><span style="color: black;">You do not have to be a
college student to experience Spring Break! Amelia Island Concours is the first
of the triple crown of USA Concours events, held in early March, this is the
first sense that winter is over, and how the season begins for many MBCA
members.</span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVHX2gCYfdd_W9BOusTCVMqQLXXY7rSsxA9HAipwX02J9zDvTtgRbCp0cYXZeFyDBqd8y1LfRo5n7dVSsmccEUXNP4LaPVec1_Qaugb62FLFzEERrspWR6fUgqNx-K9lBbIvg3tORJljYg/s1600/DSC03429.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVHX2gCYfdd_W9BOusTCVMqQLXXY7rSsxA9HAipwX02J9zDvTtgRbCp0cYXZeFyDBqd8y1LfRo5n7dVSsmccEUXNP4LaPVec1_Qaugb62FLFzEERrspWR6fUgqNx-K9lBbIvg3tORJljYg/s200/DSC03429.JPG" width="200" /></a><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";"></span></span><br />
<span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";">The week before the “Amelia Island
Show” is filled with events that satisfy any automotive enthusiast. Car
auctions, seminars, marque drives of new models and celebrity-studded social
events make up the glamour and excitement of the Amelia Island experience, and
has for the last 17 years.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br /><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIBV-zoaHJYk6k5S44Zyka9anE4f4GWqfvifQ0si9dhrobpmP9iFNz74SN5lHdkDhxroTvZxm8fWbVwEXapVILAq_P7XQ7yxIFDSe58Q1qKUohGoBmsnlq6BtZbYiuYeF7zkRYI_a5a4B4/s1600/DSC03439.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIBV-zoaHJYk6k5S44Zyka9anE4f4GWqfvifQ0si9dhrobpmP9iFNz74SN5lHdkDhxroTvZxm8fWbVwEXapVILAq_P7XQ7yxIFDSe58Q1qKUohGoBmsnlq6BtZbYiuYeF7zkRYI_a5a4B4/s200/DSC03439.JPG" width="200" /></a><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";">Mercedes-Benz is right there in the
center of everything - as a founding sponsor of the show, showing off classic,
as well as brand new models, highlighting the brand in a number of ways. From
displays and drives, to dinners and press introductions of new models!<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br /><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh737YIUrkA_wg22tfT0sKXqasEdHGgR5SbOUPjbmMdlZzRaOomnEZ_xPutzippCN9vdIJtPVb2Dm8sJxBOhhOjaDn3zv0sTNYpJlYs0cARYNThC8fI3Rap0Xl0e0Ip-pmMwrEu1_ixsROp/s1600/DSC03430.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh737YIUrkA_wg22tfT0sKXqasEdHGgR5SbOUPjbmMdlZzRaOomnEZ_xPutzippCN9vdIJtPVb2Dm8sJxBOhhOjaDn3zv0sTNYpJlYs0cARYNThC8fI3Rap0Xl0e0Ip-pmMwrEu1_ixsROp/s200/DSC03430.JPG" width="200" /></a><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";">This year AMG played a big role having
the AMG Driving Academy staff on hand to demonstrate the AMG product line. From
the C63 AMG Coupe to the E63 Wagon, and of course the full line of C, E, and S
sedans, CLS, and SLS. Not just a display of Mercedes-Benzs alone, attendees are
able to test drive many different high-line brands around this island paradise.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf_-Js5CkixG69-gLdHkHiSm_gF4JqcnauD4eRfTMuSl55BBSx8Y9I1QiCFWp9ybkrjE5YD4WvhLKCFdoldb_Eb0-wkHXTkoPO2BSCsdBnHxDxP3CbGFhEE3bec2_bMRbBNYpq6rMXF-wf/s1600/DSC03399.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf_-Js5CkixG69-gLdHkHiSm_gF4JqcnauD4eRfTMuSl55BBSx8Y9I1QiCFWp9ybkrjE5YD4WvhLKCFdoldb_Eb0-wkHXTkoPO2BSCsdBnHxDxP3CbGFhEE3bec2_bMRbBNYpq6rMXF-wf/s200/DSC03399.JPG" width="200" /></a><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";">For those who like to shop, you can buy
everything from auto themed art work and jewelry to the cars themselves. Two
prestigious auction houses, RM Auctions and Gooding & Company hold
high-line vehicle auctions in the days prior to the show, with vehicles going
into the six and seven digits!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFEM_ytY0MqkNEsjHt3dcD2WpC9kJyfKURMw9weCQbC-lJAqV4WMCvxAJOYUVc9f4IV0iv5QKsYfAUDXnlapzwrjXX9NugWT5P5RrAaqTYZpqa0xDmw1FJ1aubtnXtaXn9MITIq2Pxire5/s1600/2012-03-09_12-16-03_212.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFEM_ytY0MqkNEsjHt3dcD2WpC9kJyfKURMw9weCQbC-lJAqV4WMCvxAJOYUVc9f4IV0iv5QKsYfAUDXnlapzwrjXX9NugWT5P5RrAaqTYZpqa0xDmw1FJ1aubtnXtaXn9MITIq2Pxire5/s200/2012-03-09_12-16-03_212.jpg" width="200" /></a><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";">Arriving on Friday we attended the
Gooding & Company Auction at the Omni Plantation. Although not directly
affiliated with the Amelia Island Concours, RM benefits from the excitement and
the crowds that come for the Amelia Island Concours weekend of events.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br /><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcQhbC-df-xPu1AmjgswaQPy_TKd5LREdbk4TskmHncF8OHR_YJJ8tj0xnHW9_EAOopn1I8ODzU7UT9cZ9ffUSylPvvn_BPpwNihdvoj_0h8D3nXU0yBimtYEKYmHqWv6x2qP0FEFOagAS/s1600/DSC03419.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcQhbC-df-xPu1AmjgswaQPy_TKd5LREdbk4TskmHncF8OHR_YJJ8tj0xnHW9_EAOopn1I8ODzU7UT9cZ9ffUSylPvvn_BPpwNihdvoj_0h8D3nXU0yBimtYEKYmHqWv6x2qP0FEFOagAS/s200/DSC03419.JPG" width="200" /></a><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";">Friday is a great day to take in the
seminars, vendor displays and new marque drives held at the Ritz Carlton where
the Amelia Concours is hosted. Friday is a more intimate experience than
Saturday, you are not overwhelmed by the crowds and you get to see the cars and
talk with manufacturers representatives, visit with friends, that may not be as
easy to do on Saturday or Sunday.</span></span><br />
<br />
</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW8gSPmGnhXSeUBmljXTViL0hivKg2jb-1gSpZq9Pwsk0PuRe9dBdtcpEwxij2fW_3QbXZfDK6AYc7_-ZzPua1n8UBqhfa4cB_zgRoKMRGdUW1Er2SB2ft1XAD3-_ppZKf_X0dRJL0g-qV/s1600/2012-03-09_13-34-02_956.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW8gSPmGnhXSeUBmljXTViL0hivKg2jb-1gSpZq9Pwsk0PuRe9dBdtcpEwxij2fW_3QbXZfDK6AYc7_-ZzPua1n8UBqhfa4cB_zgRoKMRGdUW1Er2SB2ft1XAD3-_ppZKf_X0dRJL0g-qV/s200/2012-03-09_13-34-02_956.jpg" width="200" /></a><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";">Saturday repeats what happens on
Friday, just with more enthusiasm! Saturday night is when a number of dinner
and social events happen, including the annual MBCA | Peachtree and
Mercedes-Benz Dinners.</span></span><br />
<div class="Cutline" style="margin: 0in 4.5pt 5.25pt;">
<span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";"><span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span></span></span><br />
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<span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";">This year the MBCA | Peachtree Section
dinner was host to members from 17 different sections around the country. A
select number of MBCA members are invited to attend the black-tie dinner held
at the Ritz Carlton hosted by Mercedes-Benz.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg-MWvD-kbRvb2hNu8gRHScX47qD9UNSlY79eUobMMpz_ZsJzo8q0GOP0dccuKIA9X3FTRFcHizs_foqRXGhLzzag2qvDzC8PlxNp1Kz7Be4brCnxOTyl6_SdKsdQHwQrDsMuCR2y9SfCH/s1600/DSC03445.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg-MWvD-kbRvb2hNu8gRHScX47qD9UNSlY79eUobMMpz_ZsJzo8q0GOP0dccuKIA9X3FTRFcHizs_foqRXGhLzzag2qvDzC8PlxNp1Kz7Be4brCnxOTyl6_SdKsdQHwQrDsMuCR2y9SfCH/s200/DSC03445.JPG" width="200" /></a><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";">The culmination of events is the show
on Sunday. This year it has expanded to include more cars and more people than
ever before. Mercedes-Benz Club of America this year provided </span></span><span class="NewMembersList"><b><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro Bold","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro Bold";"><em>“The
Mercedes-Benz Club of America Award”</em></span></b></span><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";"> for the Most Historically Significant Mercedes-Benz.
Presented by MBCA Past National President, Roger Van Ness. I was awarded to a
1952 Mercedes-Benz W194, owned by Bruce and Jolene McCaw of Bellevue, WA.<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";">Each year this event becomes more
popular and grows in strength, from the activities and the vendors, to the show
itself! If you have not attended, you are missing a great opportunity to see
and experience an amazing Concours event.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Next year’s event will be held March 8-10 2013, plan on attending, and
participating as an MBCA member.</span></span>William West Hopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731459759270915266noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8531193075195695125.post-49913688821487454832012-06-05T17:56:00.001-04:002012-06-05T17:56:40.238-04:00Book Review: Pagoda Style: Our Stories, Our Pictures, Our Cars.<br />
<div class="Cutline" style="margin: 0in 0in 5.25pt;">
<span class="NewMembersList"><span style="color: #002654; font-family: "Arial Black","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arial Black";">Pagoda Style:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our
Stories, Our Pictures, Our Cars.</span></span></div>
<div class="Cutline" style="margin: 0in 0in 5.25pt;">
<span class="NewMembersList"><span style="color: #002654; font-family: "Arial Black","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arial Black";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>by Michael Salemi</span></span><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="color: #002654; font-family: "Arial Black","sans-serif"; font-size: 13pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Arial Black";"></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOhzU3mpaHRnqwXbcIXpTk0RfDDYnIAK-_0crnfQOZmCGCVfFE97_mBbsSmHsSBiM6Z0JK8nmd9bhpORrGudyDQYqmDKzDKItszL_lOdyTEFhYvpO_-f565UwmA82e2Mbw80NpLmn_gLXt/s1600/Front+Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="158" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOhzU3mpaHRnqwXbcIXpTk0RfDDYnIAK-_0crnfQOZmCGCVfFE97_mBbsSmHsSBiM6Z0JK8nmd9bhpORrGudyDQYqmDKzDKItszL_lOdyTEFhYvpO_-f565UwmA82e2Mbw80NpLmn_gLXt/s200/Front+Cover.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div style="mso-element-anchor-horizontal: column; mso-element-anchor-vertical: paragraph; mso-element-linespan: 2; mso-element-wrap: auto; mso-element: dropcap-dropped; mso-height-rule: exactly;">
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</span><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" hspace="0" vspace="0"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><tbody>
<tr><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><td align="left" style="background-color: transparent; border: rgb(0, 0, 0); padding: 0in;" valign="top"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><div class="Cutline" style="line-height: 75%; margin: 0in 0in 5.25pt; mso-element-anchor-horizontal: column; mso-element-anchor-vertical: paragraph; mso-element-linespan: 2; mso-element-wrap: auto; mso-element: dropcap-dropped; mso-height-rule: exactly; page-break-after: avoid;">
<span class="NewMembersList"><span style="color: #002654; font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 32pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 75%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";"></span></span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"></span></div>
</td><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></tr>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></tbody></table>
<span style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">
</span></div>
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<span class="NewMembersList"><span style="color: #002654; font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";"><span style="color: black;">If you’ve ever wanted a
W113 SL (230, 250,280) or if you own one already, you will want to pick up this
hardcover book. It is a collection of stories from owners all over the world! How they came about the car, what drove them to own the car, and how they have cared for the car(s) they have owned.</span></span></span></div>
<div class="Cutline" style="margin: 0in 0in 5.25pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman; font-size: small;">
</span></div>
<div class="Cutline" style="margin: 0in 0in 5.25pt; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
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<span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";"><span style="color: black;">The 144 page book also contains
beautiful pictures that accompany each article. Photos of the cars, and the owners including orginal works of Paul Bracq, such as his Pagoda painting. Pagoda Style </span></span></span><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";"><span style="color: black;">recently won the Silver Award from the Indpendant Publishers Book Awards! </span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7N0XfQV5eGMO-0EbgxnjiDdj_NMgXlOOYktLamlP7CmEhBiIpx0A0RdsPBbK4xla0_LU5cRv-G7LAAKQanJSScXEafAPvjzp_s4L8GzkCufODiJQ4uaZWM-Mjz-Uw17YtEEoRWdZ8_pmA/s1600/David+Brough.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7N0XfQV5eGMO-0EbgxnjiDdj_NMgXlOOYktLamlP7CmEhBiIpx0A0RdsPBbK4xla0_LU5cRv-G7LAAKQanJSScXEafAPvjzp_s4L8GzkCufODiJQ4uaZWM-Mjz-Uw17YtEEoRWdZ8_pmA/s320/David+Brough.jpg" width="320" /></a><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";"><span style="color: black;">It will be an excellent
addition to your MB library, one you will want to display or give as a gift to
a friend. </span></span></span><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";"><span style="color: black;">A limited edition print run with less
than 100 copies remaining, order soon before they are all gone! </span></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></span></span></span></div>
<span style="color: black;"><div class="Cutline" style="margin: 0in 0in 5.25pt;">
<span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";">Find out more about the book on the
www.sl113.org website, as well as Facebook. If you aspire to own one of these
classics or if you own one, this book is a “must have”.</span></span></div>
</span><div class="Cutline" style="margin: 0in 0in 5.25pt;">
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<span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";"><span style="color: black;">Michael Salemi, past president of MBCA’s International Stars Section and a contributing editor to MBCA’s Star magazine, conceived, designed and edited the book and is now offering it for sale to the public.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span class="NewMembersList"><b><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro Bold","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro Bold";"><span style="color: black;">The cost is $75 (US) available on Amazon, as well as
directly from the author Michael Salemi<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>mdsalemi@sbcglobal.net.<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></span></div>
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<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>William West Hopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731459759270915266noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8531193075195695125.post-25984651168632076442012-04-06T12:10:00.000-04:002012-04-06T12:10:22.510-04:00Mercedes-Benz Concours d'Elegance Juding School - April 14 2012<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlA-bFC2ITn48vvl9Mqc4x2gwrjPCZos4v0QmS8Wu8WsjEMoebUA64hov12rK5Ect3_NK0gm84GqOpBrjsqw30jO4UJyZiWXSNdsA0Ho4OjXgu84XCmGj9RlsI1bV-0krBxn8PEqB_WTeo/s1600/09JJCombination.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlA-bFC2ITn48vvl9Mqc4x2gwrjPCZos4v0QmS8Wu8WsjEMoebUA64hov12rK5Ect3_NK0gm84GqOpBrjsqw30jO4UJyZiWXSNdsA0Ho4OjXgu84XCmGj9RlsI1bV-0krBxn8PEqB_WTeo/s320/09JJCombination.jpg" width="320" /></a>The Tarheel Section of MBCA will be holding the 2012 MBCA Concours Judging Class for the Eastern Region At Mercedes-Benz of Greensboro, in Greensboro NC on Saturday, April 14. This one-day class will have you ready for the coming year of MBCA Concours events! </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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How can you become an MBCA Concours Judge, or just improve your skills? What does a judge look for when judging a Mercedes-Benz? This is your opportunity to find the answers! <br />
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This class is open to all MBCA members, and will teach you how to prepare and judge Mercedes-Benz cars for MBCA Concours d’Elegance events. You will learn what judges look for when Mercedes-Benz’s are being judged. Taught by Pete Lesler, MBCA Concours Chair and past MBCA President, the class will teach you what to look for when judging, as well as what to prepare on your M-B when it is to be judged. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTlKQs-P0_uPsPlChZELrSDLi4YMY0RFj-vNHAShkuU3H4QE0ZzS6w5DFBLg5koRGOBf9SCA3bGvgoZLlnWZ4TNWQ04qb1-UcV4w3mTOVG2CYsaqaQZAgIlR2hXyeGM_u51VapKNS6ukqf/s1600/judges.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTlKQs-P0_uPsPlChZELrSDLi4YMY0RFj-vNHAShkuU3H4QE0ZzS6w5DFBLg5koRGOBf9SCA3bGvgoZLlnWZ4TNWQ04qb1-UcV4w3mTOVG2CYsaqaQZAgIlR2hXyeGM_u51VapKNS6ukqf/s200/judges.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><br />
The class will be taught at Mercedes-Benz of Greensboro in the conference room starting at 9:30 am. We will break for lunch and get a private tour of the dealership. After lunch the group breaks into judging teams reviewing participants cars based on what was learned in the class. Everyone will then return to the conference room where Pete will go over the judging and discuss the scores. <br />
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A light breakfast will be offered and lunch is included in the cost of the class. The cost of the class will be $10 you will need to reserve your spot early, as Pete’s classes fill up quickly! Please RSVP by April 7 for this great opportunity. <br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><strong><em><u>For More Information or to RSVP, contact: </u></em></strong></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEdGmh4bcxNO6tDSpErePgRaoW_-mujd5WYjgdxV7SM6uKePaUGewlSLS3FKRLl_aRJ1rkVGbqMaMDi-ufYWNPoyIWItJFihGRVaF2C6szq6-ttewB__Ev9apxMhwYUP6sFSi-puRzwtCi/s1600/DSC00105.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" nda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEdGmh4bcxNO6tDSpErePgRaoW_-mujd5WYjgdxV7SM6uKePaUGewlSLS3FKRLl_aRJ1rkVGbqMaMDi-ufYWNPoyIWItJFihGRVaF2C6szq6-ttewB__Ev9apxMhwYUP6sFSi-puRzwtCi/s200/DSC00105.JPG" width="200" /></a><strong>Scott Coley 828.433.8486 </strong><a href="mailto:scottmci@directus.net"><strong>scottmci@directus.net</strong></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><strong>The Concours Judging Class will be held:<br />
Saturday April 14, 9:30 AM </strong></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><strong>Mercedes-Benz of Greensboro </strong></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><span><strong>819 Norwalk st, Greensboro, NC, 27407 </strong></span><span><a href="http://www.greensboro.mercedesdealer.com/about_us/opening_hours_location">http://www.greensboro.mercedesdealer.com/about_us/opening_hours_location</a></span></div>William West Hopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731459759270915266noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8531193075195695125.post-88751038917742997742012-03-02T16:42:00.000-05:002012-03-02T16:42:01.143-05:00Mercedes-Benz Club At the Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance<span style="font-size: large;"><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="color: #002654; font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";"><span style="color: black; font-family: Times New Roman;">F</span>or many of us in the Mercedes-Benz Club, Spring starts its engine with the Amelia Island Concours!</span></span><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span><br />
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<div class="Cutline" style="margin: 0in 0in 5.25pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnNX8g4A7ZAyWs92TTkucAtuSinAgH6rME9n0n8ANr-bpFcYQqT-g56YzML1-YyXDbNJb50sr6098_Ypciy365ei3wqa9S5pLOnPyiWmOAQR0q7at_wFBpCq-IO4HSsukatdUoV3Wsk3pX/s1600/DSC01489.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnNX8g4A7ZAyWs92TTkucAtuSinAgH6rME9n0n8ANr-bpFcYQqT-g56YzML1-YyXDbNJb50sr6098_Ypciy365ei3wqa9S5pLOnPyiWmOAQR0q7at_wFBpCq-IO4HSsukatdUoV3Wsk3pX/s200/DSC01489.JPG" width="200" /></a><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";">Here, a well-vetted display of automotive design, engineering and history as well as rarely seen one-of-a-kind automobiles are presented. But that is just on Sunday. If you miss Friday and Saturday, you are missing a weekend full of events!</span></span></div><div class="Cutline" style="margin: 0in 0in 5.25pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXiiHnju1v2Q0r40inB-St3Zg1bv5MlMbV8h1NCxHnRUn9Jm_gODyAl8LTYsk1O5CR7x0NAk8u24bwJDzoRGtf1Nlonk_ZE9fbdIkS85mQhGJxJ1DbQIU2uetnJO7X-mhwZe8FqJDFFktS/s1600/DSC01491.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXiiHnju1v2Q0r40inB-St3Zg1bv5MlMbV8h1NCxHnRUn9Jm_gODyAl8LTYsk1O5CR7x0NAk8u24bwJDzoRGtf1Nlonk_ZE9fbdIkS85mQhGJxJ1DbQIU2uetnJO7X-mhwZe8FqJDFFktS/s200/DSC01491.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="Cutline" style="margin: 0in 0in 5.25pt;"><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";">High-end lifestyle events run all weekend long! On Friday, the Gooding and Co. Auction is held at the nearby Omni Plantation Resort. Saturday, the RM Auction runs at the Ritz-Carlton, where you will also find seminars, an extensive vendor area, cigar and wine tasting and the Mercedes-Benz black tie dinner.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="Cutline" style="margin: 0in 0in 5.25pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic4KqMzhyphenhyphenfXsjlC6JDMfSWT0SO6eH7KPQDQ-8mJ5wl1ct2Z3EFkTbR4tRSGAHr6D7ySdtSX9FXgOGiFGhS2K7JAYEQpZBtCjjboMq1ZsFZC6JqyFLl6xHwoqSNqMmKR2FHrzHEsehJEp4B/s1600/DSC01486.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic4KqMzhyphenhyphenfXsjlC6JDMfSWT0SO6eH7KPQDQ-8mJ5wl1ct2Z3EFkTbR4tRSGAHr6D7ySdtSX9FXgOGiFGhS2K7JAYEQpZBtCjjboMq1ZsFZC6JqyFLl6xHwoqSNqMmKR2FHrzHEsehJEp4B/s200/DSC01486.JPG" width="200" /></a><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";">Saturday is a great chance to see the latest from AMG, Maybach and Mercedes-Benz, as well as Jaguar, Porsche, Bentley and others. A couple of years ago Hyundai chose to release the Genesis, showing that their upscale line could compete directly with the well-known luxury marques. Displays often include drive opportunities and talks with the manufacturers.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="Cutline" style="margin: 0in 0in 5.25pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWBB_-ZnrZgbbdkQhtUUWa0-LAQ77DvUXotNRUzvAfSTVsKODkrA-ICPw3XkhObHkT_ufh_Bq0jPVhBnFgwp-4ntyLnYq9YoucCUHm7fk3lRcJMbgdtMEcrQrPh6t1J_Vkh5vHEYRDqWPu/s1600/DSC01513.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWBB_-ZnrZgbbdkQhtUUWa0-LAQ77DvUXotNRUzvAfSTVsKODkrA-ICPw3XkhObHkT_ufh_Bq0jPVhBnFgwp-4ntyLnYq9YoucCUHm7fk3lRcJMbgdtMEcrQrPh6t1J_Vkh5vHEYRDqWPu/s200/DSC01513.JPG" width="200" /></a><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";">For MBCA members, the social highlight of the weekend is the MBCA|Peachtree Section Dinner on Saturday night at the Crab Shack in nearby Fernandina Beach. A casual meal with a chance to catch up with and enjoy the company of MBCA members from around the country.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="Cutline" style="margin: 0in 0in 5.25pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9rYXn5hyTe8ffPK3kxXz4SZMeYCQMbcC3YeqGpt5-n8TwihGvZOwgS49s4VhISKHS2Gq1wUqQmZUTMe-zFtEfYjMdcuNI6ikN7lH-3T6CPJeCMr8PAd93TdyE7Csg8zbjXXkv1uLajlsk/s1600/DSC01572.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9rYXn5hyTe8ffPK3kxXz4SZMeYCQMbcC3YeqGpt5-n8TwihGvZOwgS49s4VhISKHS2Gq1wUqQmZUTMe-zFtEfYjMdcuNI6ikN7lH-3T6CPJeCMr8PAd93TdyE7Csg8zbjXXkv1uLajlsk/s200/DSC01572.JPG" width="200" /></a><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";">Sunday morning the judging is well underway by the time the field opens to the public. By mid-afternoon, the show field is teeming with people inspecting the amazing variety of cars. Throughout the day, famous drivers and automotive luminaries can be found autographing posters and books. Mid-afternoon is when the award ceremony starts with the winning vehicles being driven to the podium to receive their honors.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="Cutline" style="margin: 0in 0in 5.25pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV8YPTNNz12p0R94J_m7dkBs8rXb-LLj57Klfhk74Guey8WxxPjGtmhk7NTXOPH8_zKVs45dtOtBbj3coOach-Fv8KwK0tvSQORws5vfJ0jQn40th55wEJ2s7aODiPCVtO4Hns0-HmPjUs/s1600/DSC01602.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV8YPTNNz12p0R94J_m7dkBs8rXb-LLj57Klfhk74Guey8WxxPjGtmhk7NTXOPH8_zKVs45dtOtBbj3coOach-Fv8KwK0tvSQORws5vfJ0jQn40th55wEJ2s7aODiPCVtO4Hns0-HmPjUs/s200/DSC01602.JPG" width="200" /></a><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";">Various auto manufacturers have tents and displays around the field, with Mercedes-Benz being one of the most prominent with a by-invitation only Star Lounge, complete with reviewing stand overlooking the award ceremony.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div align="center" class="Cutline" style="margin: 0in 0in 5.25pt; text-align: center;"><span class="NewMembersList"><b><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro Bold","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro Bold";"><em><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Travel Hints for attending the Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance</span>.<o:p></o:p></span></em></span></b></span></div><br />
<div class="Cutline" style="margin: 0in 0in 5.25pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1qa0VTJ6QLOfeWFEsaI-gr7jxnWA67cS7xcwzmzo6Ln3aAhcouFro7mUmF53ox4S5203pKlUVgVeeDL3GsWRSHFfH3knHC-iN_EHFIJIUJy2rSCj3jFLy3NJh-0FNMGWxsvgRW6vRQi8i/s1600/DSC01548.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1qa0VTJ6QLOfeWFEsaI-gr7jxnWA67cS7xcwzmzo6Ln3aAhcouFro7mUmF53ox4S5203pKlUVgVeeDL3GsWRSHFfH3knHC-iN_EHFIJIUJy2rSCj3jFLy3NJh-0FNMGWxsvgRW6vRQi8i/s200/DSC01548.JPG" width="200" /></a><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";">This year’s weekend is March 9 - 11. Amelia Island FL is located just south of the Georgia/Florida border, about 20 miles north of Jacksonville. It’s an eleven-hour drive down I-95 from Washington DC.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="Cutline" style="margin: 0in 0in 5.25pt;"><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";">If you are flying, Jacksonville (JAX) is the closet airport, about 30 minutes to the south. Fernandina Beach/Amelia Island has an airport for private planes and small corporate jets, if you choose to arrive that way.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="Cutline" style="margin: 0in 0in 5.25pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSqUZXJVpPoh5bSSg5GxrMKYCp9atjub0LVpwR-1q0bChZmlJKvCZMj1LFwYXXsy0QB12YSMKxEcKh2XcbkXqvpKdjB7I3zHcjR-XzJjH_K3qlANGl8phSb7228B5BIeVKSnjrYqcC29TZ/s1600/DSC01579.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSqUZXJVpPoh5bSSg5GxrMKYCp9atjub0LVpwR-1q0bChZmlJKvCZMj1LFwYXXsy0QB12YSMKxEcKh2XcbkXqvpKdjB7I3zHcjR-XzJjH_K3qlANGl8phSb7228B5BIeVKSnjrYqcC29TZ/s200/DSC01579.JPG" width="200" /></a><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";">Hotels, guest houses and bed and breakfasts on Amelia Island are expensive, if you can find one that has not been booked months in advance. Hotels in nearby Yulee FL, Kingsland or St. Mary’s GA or along I-95 into Jacksonville can be found at affordable prices. No matter where you stay, you will still have to drive and pay to park at the Concours events each day you attend.</span></span></div><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";"></span></span><div class="Cutline" style="margin: 0in 0in 5.25pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPu-PElUakqfRXK6TDuw0j-bT8QlKGe9gaSJrjLuaF2puEa8ufKcxkFH9YH6SHhGB5hQBFaW46nBhuiAp361MxHxNTWM4HX3Et3u1F5iscnOSpfDZmbrtQtQRofEZwn6aRa2krPZjfXqOR/s1600/DSC01509.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPu-PElUakqfRXK6TDuw0j-bT8QlKGe9gaSJrjLuaF2puEa8ufKcxkFH9YH6SHhGB5hQBFaW46nBhuiAp361MxHxNTWM4HX3Et3u1F5iscnOSpfDZmbrtQtQRofEZwn6aRa2krPZjfXqOR/s200/DSC01509.JPG" width="200" /></a><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";"></span></span></div><div class="Cutline" style="margin: 0in 0in 5.25pt;"><br />
</div><div class="Cutline" style="margin: 0in 0in 5.25pt;"><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";">There are numerous parking lots at the Concours, charging about $20 per day with regular shuttles running to and from the show grounds. </span></span></div><br />
<div class="Cutline" style="margin: 0in 0in 5.25pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEishd8n-eDCq1oTjYjEc446Dr_w_mFljbYdWzphd0nKNPgHUSPBrEcvESF3J83jfGb1iwRVE8hHJtcld-neHrjk85wHf_3VVbmDQYxf7hpaYEmGdOfm9tNRNtY7NCddk6koLmPJ8j9Eqept/s1600/DSC01561.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEishd8n-eDCq1oTjYjEc446Dr_w_mFljbYdWzphd0nKNPgHUSPBrEcvESF3J83jfGb1iwRVE8hHJtcld-neHrjk85wHf_3VVbmDQYxf7hpaYEmGdOfm9tNRNtY7NCddk6koLmPJ8j9Eqept/s200/DSC01561.JPG" width="200" /></a><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";">General admission to the Concours can be purchased before the event at a discount on the </span></span><span class="NewMembersList"><b><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro Bold","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro Bold";"><em>ameliaconcours.org</em></span></b></span><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";"> website for $50 per person. On the day of the event the gate event the price is $60. There is no charge for admission on Friday or Saturday, though if you want to attend the auction you do need to purchase a bidder’s pass. Otherwise you are free to walk around the staging area and vendor area at will.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="Cutline" style="margin: 0in 0in 5.25pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZQJxISS8KPdEj6OW7WxviHWIkGrYEi70jL-z86QY2_-Q6D-HMHk6oUH7twifMxyzgU5rUYREK3yJw0C5OcHzoSn5GkIlfwNI8GQe4ohbUpcMpsx9XQBhKdLRJIxK_OVIPZAXJ37kBodzO/s1600/DSC01511.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZQJxISS8KPdEj6OW7WxviHWIkGrYEi70jL-z86QY2_-Q6D-HMHk6oUH7twifMxyzgU5rUYREK3yJw0C5OcHzoSn5GkIlfwNI8GQe4ohbUpcMpsx9XQBhKdLRJIxK_OVIPZAXJ37kBodzO/s200/DSC01511.JPG" width="200" /></a><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";">The MBCA | Peachtree dinner is held early on Saturday evening at the Crab Shack in Fernandina Beach, and is open to all MBCA members. Space is limited, so register early. Contact the Peachtree Section to assure a reservation </span></span><span class="NewMembersList"><b><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro Bold","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro Bold";"><em>mbcapeachtree.org.</em></span></b></span><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";"> This year’s cost is $35 per person.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="Cutline" style="margin: 0in 0in 5.25pt;"><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";">The Black Tie Mercedes-Benz dinner held at the Ritz-Carlton is often sold out, though if you have connections with sponsoring dealers you may be able to score an invite to the $250+ per seat dinner featuring famous personalities as keynote speakers and guests.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcyaWiJejA9OkU5uyr-jJdUyVh0waXjN_2WFG6BaEyMjAF10HnRnhxiePQ02mSCdhcmjc-wBOpGmFIl1QpuTzAUJosHx0q9QKJrSOdKkjoWjFRzou7hS3UzF-Hn0lNQNaWuWemzRicFxyP/s1600/DSC01601.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcyaWiJejA9OkU5uyr-jJdUyVh0waXjN_2WFG6BaEyMjAF10HnRnhxiePQ02mSCdhcmjc-wBOpGmFIl1QpuTzAUJosHx0q9QKJrSOdKkjoWjFRzou7hS3UzF-Hn0lNQNaWuWemzRicFxyP/s200/DSC01601.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
<div class="Cutline" style="margin: 0in 0in 5.25pt;"><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";">The Mercedes-Benz Star Lounge on the field the day of the show is by-invitation-only! It is not open to the general public or MBCA members who have not been invited. Top customers of Mercedes-Benz dealers tend to be able to get on the list without a problem.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="Cutline" style="margin: 0in 0in 5.25pt;"><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";">The weather can be cool and wet, or sunny and warm, often on the same day! Dress in layers as the mornings are cold and the afternoons become sunny and hot. The crowd is well turned out in most fashionable attire. Dressing in Mercedes-Benz chic or MBCA attire is always a great way to be recognized by your fellow MBCA members!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBIzGe7YzS1vrIp7lsyAQhg2k63M4AFoYxNirDGhivfbg2830yXB4jnZnuFTxJY5xEAb24Ok0oshGjwUbK0sgP4fNyjxMeV5Q6tc0Nl5hZnzpyV8rHW2oTmuoxRTt-nl0HcHScklte8cly/s1600/IMG_1929.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBIzGe7YzS1vrIp7lsyAQhg2k63M4AFoYxNirDGhivfbg2830yXB4jnZnuFTxJY5xEAb24Ok0oshGjwUbK0sgP4fNyjxMeV5Q6tc0Nl5hZnzpyV8rHW2oTmuoxRTt-nl0HcHScklte8cly/s200/IMG_1929.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span class="NewMembersList"><i><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Adobe Garamond Pro;">Other 2012 Concours where MBCA members will this season are: The Concours of America at St. Johns in Michigan (previously known as Meadowbrook) on July 29 </span></span></i></span><span class="NewMembersList"><b><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro Bold","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro Bold";">concoursusa.org,</span></b></span><span class="NewMembersList"><i><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Adobe Garamond Pro;"> and Pebble Beach in Monterey CA August 19 </span></span></i></span><span class="NewMembersList"><b><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro Bold","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro Bold";">pebblebeachconcours.net.</span></b></span><span class="NewMembersList"><i><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Adobe Garamond Pro;"> All of these are events to be experienced and shared with fellow MBCA members.</span></span></i></span></div>William West Hopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731459759270915266noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8531193075195695125.post-64709104974515503892011-09-20T18:08:00.000-04:002011-09-20T18:08:46.427-04:00It is that time of year again! For MBCA To Announce Its Largest National Event, StarFest®<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">It is that time of year again!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For MBCA to announce its Largest National Event, StarFest<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">®</span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The Mercedes-Benz Club or America holds the largest gathering of Mercedes-Benz Enthusiasts on the even years, so for 2012, StarFest<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">®</span> will be<strong>...….<o:p></o:p></strong></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Drum Roll Please……..<o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">For 2012 StarFest<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">®</span> will be held at the “Jewel of the Desert” The Arizona Biltmore Resort in Phoenix Arizona September 28 to October 3!<o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMon2u4k1ZOn7RK5wD8GIe9zWcjdJB2F8BuLaLwIxSLookLaZPvq4R2u043njPigyu6UdVsQwvUMKzUtf1Wx2_kdfujCtlYJud4YaDXkyGjF5r7Jotd_-Of8Za7iFCv6u5Q-6-R394QG3F/s1600/StarAd.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMon2u4k1ZOn7RK5wD8GIe9zWcjdJB2F8BuLaLwIxSLookLaZPvq4R2u043njPigyu6UdVsQwvUMKzUtf1Wx2_kdfujCtlYJud4YaDXkyGjF5r7Jotd_-Of8Za7iFCv6u5Q-6-R394QG3F/s320/StarAd.jpeg" width="248" /></a><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The Biltmore with its 39 acres of lush gardens will be the host for all StarFest<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">®</span> activities including the StarFest<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">®</span> 2012 Mercedes-Benz Concours which will be held on the hotel's Squaw Peak Lawn and the Cottage Court. This is sure to make for one of the most striking and beautiful Concours venues in the history of MBCA.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">This world-class venue will be an exciting place for members and their families. On the Biltmore’s grounds are seven tennis courts, gardens and eight swimming pools and a full-service resort spa, salon and fitness center, adjacent are two 18 hole PGA golf courses. The Arizona Biltmore is not only a great place to stay; it is a destination all its own! Bring the kids, grandkids, bring the entire family, and with the Biltmore’s discounted StarFest<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">®</span> hotel rates, you have no reason not to enjoy this kind of resort!<o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">StarFest<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">®</span> 2012 will feature an expanded two-day Mercedes-Benz Concours d’Elegance. Saturday will feature the judging and then Sunday, the vehicles will be on display for the public to view, along with celebrity guests and media interviews. The StarFest<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">®</span> weekend will also feature a series of seminars and exhibits on automotive restoration, presentation, and preservation.<o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Firebird International Raceway will be the site for the StarFest<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">®</span> Track events. Accelerations runs will be run on the same 1/4 mile drag-strip used for NHRA events complete with Christmas Tree Starter Lights and Electronic Timing Scoreboard. Just like the NHRA rails and funny cars! Time Trials will be on Firebird's 1.6 mile main track. So lots of fun for both drivers and spectators!<o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Mark your calendars <b>NOW</b> for September 28 to October 3 2012, and start planning to attend StarFest<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">®</span> 2012!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Keep an eye on <a href="http://www.starfest.com/"><span style="color: blue;">www.starfest.com</span></a> for updates and more information.<o:p></o:p></span></div>William West Hopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731459759270915266noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8531193075195695125.post-47346224861524526742011-07-27T15:02:00.028-04:002016-01-10T16:49:50.149-05:00It All Starts With Membership.<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Joining an organization is something you do if you; One, believe in the group’s mission, or Two, share in the group's passion. Joining an auto enthusiast club like the Mercedes-Benz Club of America (MBCA) is done because of the passion members share because of their automobiles, or in many cases with events that the club holds which members enjoy participating in.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A new member joins the club, right then and there!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Once joined, the key is to keep members engaged so they stay as club members.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>MBCA members join for a number of reasons, one is the award winning STAR Magazine, published bi-monthly, and the other are the events the club holds, be they<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>local Section, Regional or National events.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Retention of members is an important part of growing MBCA.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like any business you want to keep your customers. It is easier to retain a member, than to go out and find a new member.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The MBCA National Business Office has put together an incentive program to get the section leadership to encourage members of that section to renew.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Hang on to Homer!”</i></b> Contest was announced last week and will run from August 1, 2011 to January 31, 2012.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is a unique opportunity for Section Officers; Presidents, V-P’s, Secretaries, Treasurers and Membership Chairs to be active in retaining members and grow the section.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPJ3n8o2lGbqCfFiLL5nvpnGUvYVTr5k6kTft4oSn6Nx7Fj92Nv90CTbGu3PlUwW9xVa7ZWP5jaiZlv-sryO4IHDua2NXHB-6-Zos5BxWrvYtitBlud3plYpYsY2Ow7Iq7klRvIEYawswx/s1600/DSC01589.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPJ3n8o2lGbqCfFiLL5nvpnGUvYVTr5k6kTft4oSn6Nx7Fj92Nv90CTbGu3PlUwW9xVa7ZWP5jaiZlv-sryO4IHDua2NXHB-6-Zos5BxWrvYtitBlud3plYpYsY2Ow7Iq7klRvIEYawswx/s320/DSC01589.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">SL's on the Field at the Amelia Concours d'Elegance in 2011.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In February 2011 the NBO will award the five sections with the highest percentage of membership renewal, the grand prize of a trip for two to Pebble Beach California, August 16-20, 2012.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just in time for the world famous Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>http://www.pebblebeachconcours.net/ on Sunday August 19.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is an all expense paid trip with an approximate value of $3500, including round trip airfare for two, four nights lodging, car rental, and VIP tickets with parking at the Concours. Ten sections will win a Hilton Hotel & Resort gift card worth $150, and 25 sections will win an MBCA Directors Chair.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMxytrn2cKOh0vnnrfSQ3S3dt3iBnes96rLNua4E3cYjGdANXsusZo7BXhb0-kiqeQd9an43ea7qx-EXZkO1jPatnntVzgAD-sJ5BtZ4-Hg7omV89PxY68IyirP-8_f-opy4A04Z3msuK_/s1600/DSC01570.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMxytrn2cKOh0vnnrfSQ3S3dt3iBnes96rLNua4E3cYjGdANXsusZo7BXhb0-kiqeQd9an43ea7qx-EXZkO1jPatnntVzgAD-sJ5BtZ4-Hg7omV89PxY68IyirP-8_f-opy4A04Z3msuK_/s320/DSC01570.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A friendly smile is a welcome remembered!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong><em>What does your Section have to do to win?</em></strong><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><strong><em> </em></strong> </span>Contact your section members who are due for renewal from August first of this year until January 31<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">st</span></sup><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>2012 and encourage them to renew their MBCA membership.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A friendly phone call, a note, or just talk with them at an event!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Something that will let them know that you are thinking of them, and hope they renew their MBCA membership so they can continue to benefit from all that MBCA membership has to offer.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">What can I do to get members to renew?</i></b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Be creative and reach out to all your section members who have a renewal date coming up, make a list of those members, send them a post card with a special note, also call them and encourage them to renew. You may want to include a note on their copy of the section newsletter, thanking them and reminding them to renew!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> You will be surprised what a simple “Just wanted to let you know we are thinking of you” will do!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_E6AiN9VnzyTyGbNzRAwpfuvptnrnM-s89GGBvhsqxP3lNE6jbUlDmY5ZZYG_iM-jCwKM-bODPj34kWJ-9vMyS7XtuzVdNzAIPO0mV11IOmzRmI1b1wvMDKEGJGK8YbAvKQZYcNGtSXO3/s1600/DSC01605.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_E6AiN9VnzyTyGbNzRAwpfuvptnrnM-s89GGBvhsqxP3lNE6jbUlDmY5ZZYG_iM-jCwKM-bODPj34kWJ-9vMyS7XtuzVdNzAIPO0mV11IOmzRmI1b1wvMDKEGJGK8YbAvKQZYcNGtSXO3/s320/DSC01605.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Happy members renew their membership in MBCA!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">So if my section wins, who gets the prize?</i></b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The winning sections will choose from the Section Officer, Membership Chair, who did the most to encourage the members to renew, and they will award the prize. So share with your fellow officers all that you have are doing to encourge your section members to renew their MBCA membership. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And once you found out how easy it is to encourage members to renew, your section will be doing this all throughout the year with all of its members.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>Members enjoy the attention.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>So make some calls today!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">By your s</span>howing that you want them to renew their membership, this will encourage them to do just that! You welcomed them into the club, now encourage them to stay and enjoy all the benefits of MBCA membership for years to come.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For more information on membership in the Mercedes-Benz Club of America, see </span><a href="http://www.mbca.org/"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">www.mbca.org</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> To join the club, </span><a href="http://www.mbca.org/join-today"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">http://www.mbca.org/join-today</span></a></div>
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William West Hopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731459759270915266noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8531193075195695125.post-66867426298744819782011-07-15T09:48:00.000-04:002011-07-15T09:48:08.031-04:00The Electric Car; Not So New An Idea, It Is The New Technology That Is Amazing!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha5T0Sftj-z-L0AiT9UnVcfBL4RheLzDUqUwKkkuLtBFY2Ybk5R2g0akF9-aQHYWqpa0zW_3N9_YaLAJQEyk4qzp3RQcspWIHgNEX8X17iRDE-8Imsd-QZuw3kfbQnE3eQB83B2KIgTBfD/s1600/DSC02006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" m$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha5T0Sftj-z-L0AiT9UnVcfBL4RheLzDUqUwKkkuLtBFY2Ybk5R2g0akF9-aQHYWqpa0zW_3N9_YaLAJQEyk4qzp3RQcspWIHgNEX8X17iRDE-8Imsd-QZuw3kfbQnE3eQB83B2KIgTBfD/s320/DSC02006.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2011 Chevrolet Volt</td></tr>
</tbody></table><strong><em>“Why am I looking at a CHEVY?”</em></strong> a comment with a lot of attitude, if not disgust, was what I heard from an attendee of a recent Cars and Coffee when I brought the 2011 Chevrolet VOLT out to the Great Falls Virginia gathering. He was shocked to find a mere mortal Chevrolet in this prestigious gathering of rare and expensive automobiles. When I shared with him that it was an Electric Car, he looked at me quizzically as if I had two heads, and just walked off in the direction of a collection of Aston Martins and Porsche 356’s. <br />
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<div>At this Saturday morning public car show a number of people came up and shared with me their opinions on the Electric Vehicle Technology. Being an early adopter of the Segway® Human Transporter technology, a battery powered electrically propelled platform that transports a single human being, with a range of 20 miles at up to 12.5 mph. I knew that there are plenty of haters of electric transportation technology out there. Though I still found it interesting that the haters seem to feel compelled to share with you, in no uncertain terms, their feelings on why these vehicles should not exist!</div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3c9f3OASSVLfmlCDI0aADqCKewy0E9KWqMrJE3i_gffmV_hvyj400vcNbtu2oQWM_2Ej1j9ubtbhZ9IJVVru2rhu0ZxHpMBGsy6ZOWiH7wpJD9fOI6PSY2XpNiIFrT4Q0AyIHPCTfvFnG/s1600/DSC01984.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3c9f3OASSVLfmlCDI0aADqCKewy0E9KWqMrJE3i_gffmV_hvyj400vcNbtu2oQWM_2Ej1j9ubtbhZ9IJVVru2rhu0ZxHpMBGsy6ZOWiH7wpJD9fOI6PSY2XpNiIFrT4Q0AyIHPCTfvFnG/s200/DSC01984.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A fine display of automobiles at<br />
Great Falls VA Cars and Coffee.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>From a couple of very proper Brits who expressed with a British accent, that “This vehicle will not be around in forty years” then turned and gushed over a 1950’s MG, saying, “Now there is an automobile.” To the six foot eight, two ninety, plus pound salesman of the electric smart Four Two who deplored the lack of space in the VOLT, saying that the back seat was just not big enough for him. My only thoughts were, one hundred years ago cars were commonly powered by electricity and buddy, can you even fit in a smart?<br />
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But the haters are far outweighed by the lovers of EV technology. People, young and old found the VOLT to be quite impressive, asking about the technology, sharing their knowledge of it, often somewhat misguided, but still very much appreciating the way this “New GM Vehicle” was built. Commenting on the high quality of the fit and finish, and that the VOLT felt like a $40K plus sports sedan, not an American ecnonobox, as they expected from an old line American auto manufacturer.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1feT_ryINRZuUqJPimBVVhgwBgkEW2hIwbP-U37vs-FbFmRAQMWweYpGka7t4v_pkY7yL0GAwE_zdk4muGRjAOEEnBcj7bW1hLINQ1o1hsipi9Kr0HkMsaX5g3MlaUQXhzVniuScsqZ8C/s1600/novstudebakerelectric.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1feT_ryINRZuUqJPimBVVhgwBgkEW2hIwbP-U37vs-FbFmRAQMWweYpGka7t4v_pkY7yL0GAwE_zdk4muGRjAOEEnBcj7bW1hLINQ1o1hsipi9Kr0HkMsaX5g3MlaUQXhzVniuScsqZ8C/s200/novstudebakerelectric.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Studebaker Electric from the early 1900's.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Driving an Electric Vehicle is not something new; plenty of early automobiles were all electric. Back in the days when cars shared the road with horses, the noisy and smelly gasoline engine cars were far out numbered by electric vehicles, which were thought to be superior, especially for urban settings. So much so that in the beginning of the 20th century Studebaker fought to keep its vehicles with an electric power train, but in the end had to go with gasoline engines as the competition was not producing electric vehicles, thus the market was developing for fossil fuel powered vehicles.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Wt18zbOzJRXOKjPlzsjE4GlT6dUN3vT2ss9okZXA0u55s1C7BjX9z_DPc-4AvCseU-jGxKQrx-ixpBHZ5abJs0KssVHJ1Men2nu-PNgSBItF7oljYbQPyz3qZAELiMKsa3XA4BQaHy1r/s1600/IMG_1882.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Wt18zbOzJRXOKjPlzsjE4GlT6dUN3vT2ss9okZXA0u55s1C7BjX9z_DPc-4AvCseU-jGxKQrx-ixpBHZ5abJs0KssVHJ1Men2nu-PNgSBItF7oljYbQPyz3qZAELiMKsa3XA4BQaHy1r/s200/IMG_1882.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chevrolet Volt engine compartment.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Looking at and driving the VOLT, one would not realize this is an electric car. Though in the past driving an all electric vehicle means you always had to watch your remaining battery charge, to make sure you will end up at your destination! One with a place to plug in and recharge the batteries so you could return home. That is not the case with the VOLT. Plug it in, drive it until you run out of battery charge; it seamlessly changes over to producing its own electricity, until you have the chance to plug it in to recharge the Volt’s batteries, so that you can run with out the generator.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHIdB4QJWn54rD2rAq9Xnjy4a9ylbi3LRXI9juAZb5pe88TpEYBwLDAI8ZWFiHLbJmrwUb-Ta2KLW9Cr0FZZuckoySuaBhGsfS9vysprREokXonBFOebaaJfPbXugO4p48ev43wrzhQKlm/s1600/volt+engine+right.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHIdB4QJWn54rD2rAq9Xnjy4a9ylbi3LRXI9juAZb5pe88TpEYBwLDAI8ZWFiHLbJmrwUb-Ta2KLW9Cr0FZZuckoySuaBhGsfS9vysprREokXonBFOebaaJfPbXugO4p48ev43wrzhQKlm/s200/volt+engine+right.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cutaway of the Voltec powertrain.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>First and foremost the VOLT is powered by electricity, with the Voltech® power train, a marriage of an electric motor, a transmission, batteries to power them, and a computer to control them. The big difference between a VOLT and the familiar hybrid vehicle is that this is an all-electric vehicle that travels with its own recharging unit built in, an onboard 1.4 liter four cylinder gasoline engine with a gas tank, refillable at any normal gas station. The gasoline fueled engine powers a generator that then makes electricity. The electricity is either sent to the drive motor, or to charge the batteries. The engine does not drive the vehicle’s power train, which is how the current hybrid models are configured.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqpzAQUZ1E-R596Arrrixy36XXR-q7D4XkZSPsWExgy2h7RyhKPmz28xbx0R5NCj5leIqidOglmvLvRlzkQUm0XXxc5yqJgnV3wu0fDwL-OwOcPC5_VdSKQseukkegmmFe11yXiri-qRF5/s1600/fuelcellathome.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="130" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqpzAQUZ1E-R596Arrrixy36XXR-q7D4XkZSPsWExgy2h7RyhKPmz28xbx0R5NCj5leIqidOglmvLvRlzkQUm0XXxc5yqJgnV3wu0fDwL-OwOcPC5_VdSKQseukkegmmFe11yXiri-qRF5/s200/fuelcellathome.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
A Chevrolet Equinox running a<br />
GM Fuel Cell powertrain.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Driving the VOLT was much like driving any European sports sedan, the handling, the steering the seat feel gave the driver an excellent feel of the road, just as you would have with any European sports sedan. Road manners of the VOLT are top notch. Acceleration and lane changing on the highway was flawless as was the around town stop and go driving ability. Responsiveness was quick and smooth, though more muted than I had felt driving a Tesla Roadster or GM’s Hydrogen Powered Chevrolet Equinox. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRYIFBrShzFliywltn_ANKDfH3xBanF4hFum8gcT7VrfGdN9gEYZIq1lJ0Qa17T0LzuS2dULED2u4o_uDzoCoBNKZMxLXKSuuNCh6fB0HJCvXVaaVyalpG9WbYAVQK0auxOuix-D1E3l09/s1600/DSC02012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" m$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRYIFBrShzFliywltn_ANKDfH3xBanF4hFum8gcT7VrfGdN9gEYZIq1lJ0Qa17T0LzuS2dULED2u4o_uDzoCoBNKZMxLXKSuuNCh6fB0HJCvXVaaVyalpG9WbYAVQK0auxOuix-D1E3l09/s200/DSC02012.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aerodynamic comparison of the<br />
2011 Chevrolet Volt with a<br />
1986 Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.3-16 </td></tr>
</tbody></table>The major downfall that this car has, are the sight lines and numerous blind spots, which could all be eliminated with the use of back up camera’s, and front and side detection technology. The cause is the Volt’s aerodynamic design; long “A” pillars that hide a lot of what is ahead and to the right and left sides of the vehicle. The “C” pillar and rear doors require you to turn your head, which is something you should do anyway, so that you do not pull into someone else’s lane. The high rear end and the rounded front corners do not offer a sight line so that you know where the corners of the VOLT really are. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbSCoCya3QKxcsT-qMHP7CuHEnYI7ACAxk7K6-_v7dvRsyUe7_HeGXgqHbTZKF_Wba48jflv9n5nQuJu68LCQWZETAsl2U53NCjUi0VC6tq003fV2FImSSSmT6XTT17PhUlGOucRvlFTp0/s1600/Front+Passgener+Area.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" m$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbSCoCya3QKxcsT-qMHP7CuHEnYI7ACAxk7K6-_v7dvRsyUe7_HeGXgqHbTZKF_Wba48jflv9n5nQuJu68LCQWZETAsl2U53NCjUi0VC6tq003fV2FImSSSmT6XTT17PhUlGOucRvlFTp0/s200/Front+Passgener+Area.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Volt's passenger compartment<br />
provides plenty of space and comfort</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Driving this car brings home that the old way of driving, of knowing the dimensions of your vehicle, setting your side mirrors to a more outboard setting, and just being aware of your surroundings does help, but the addition of the modern technology would make it a better and safer vehicle.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN01Zu3gpCv44JW_NmR0HLhoE3ajOkiD5OuE8dfjjlMK0XL7l60sleRN2Rb-vQfphrjKZ1tdCExTiHXcGXgsZnZevDh4nkiummYs3MwZuf6UKu2aNr3tKygKvTmiMqh1h4HtE6jNWnzl8P/s1600/Rear+passenger+area.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" m$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN01Zu3gpCv44JW_NmR0HLhoE3ajOkiD5OuE8dfjjlMK0XL7l60sleRN2Rb-vQfphrjKZ1tdCExTiHXcGXgsZnZevDh4nkiummYs3MwZuf6UKu2aNr3tKygKvTmiMqh1h4HtE6jNWnzl8P/s200/Rear+passenger+area.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rear bucket seats astride the center<br />
"hump"where the battery is stored</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFZ5eNhv79-JsHcR_bueyWq9qhjx6Z7Iwh36NIfoqAYqpiWhcJ68_UdgRXQvhYTluRg2BjOA6oBahQc943CQeQ5WN-T7lvAYm3QXnDQLs4oQFi5VA60kRZf9sm64DuK9_qZDnYDNLwF2FU/s1600/Trunk.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" m$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFZ5eNhv79-JsHcR_bueyWq9qhjx6Z7Iwh36NIfoqAYqpiWhcJ68_UdgRXQvhYTluRg2BjOA6oBahQc943CQeQ5WN-T7lvAYm3QXnDQLs4oQFi5VA60kRZf9sm64DuK9_qZDnYDNLwF2FU/s200/Trunk.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Air compressor and charger storage<br />
under trunk area.</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Interior Comfort is excellent, the VOLT I drove was equipped with heated leather seats, though not electrically adjustable, they were comfortable for both short and long term drives. Due to the “T” shaped battery pack that runs through the center of the car, the rear has bucket seats, which fold down making the hatch area roomy enough to hold plenty of cargo. Even with the rear seats in the upright position there is plenty of space for luggage and packages. Under the rear is a small storage area that keeps the 110v plug in power cord, a heavy gauge yellow wire and EV power adapter, as well as the now common, electric powered air compressor/tire pump, that you find as a standard on most new cars as a weight saving replacement for the spare tire.</div></div> <br />
<div>Speaking of weight saving, you also find that this car has no optional sunroof, which would also take away on the interior space. The interior is roomy enough for most people, with interior roof height and passenger width spacious enough for the modern American body type.<br />
</div><div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNvEM_PdC0mZybz2sKUwe15asqWKk38D_0ojshpMzUyNYr7pEfsNokSdF0PSiTLGYPRltq8Dl9YB9GWtY4dgc4rAT96Sl89IJIH8xElWqAV7kKdyEyjJzJqekn3tvIt30EumaArdyHFkq6/s1600/Console+Screen.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" m$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNvEM_PdC0mZybz2sKUwe15asqWKk38D_0ojshpMzUyNYr7pEfsNokSdF0PSiTLGYPRltq8Dl9YB9GWtY4dgc4rAT96Sl89IJIH8xElWqAV7kKdyEyjJzJqekn3tvIt30EumaArdyHFkq6/s320/Console+Screen.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Volt's center console touch screen<br />
and touch pads.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div>Interior technology takes a bit getting use to! Instead of gauges, switches, buttons and dials, pretty much everything is a touch screen or a touch panel. Basic vehicle controls are where you would expect them, stalks for lights, turn signals and wipers, steering wheel controls for cruise control, using a Bluetooth® equipped phone, as well as mute and radio controls. The center console houses numerous touch controls for everything, which big hands can inadvertently cause another switch to be activated. You will find finger activated mechanical pull and push switches to turn the vehicle on and for power levels for the drive train, as well as the electrically powered emergency brake, and in a location that a passenger familiar to classic European cars might mistake it for a power window switch.</div><br />
<div>For driving you have a normal drive mode, a sport mode, which gives the VOLT a little more umph, and a mountain mode, which when activated, you feel the gasoline powered generator go into heavy duty electricity production to charge the battery so that you have extra power for driving up steep mountain grades.</div><br />
The center mounted gear shift, feels very clunky, not smooth like the rest of the car, with Park, Reverse, Neutral and two Drive modes, D and L. Very familiar to anyone driving an automatic transmission car. The only difference is that the L position is like Drive, but gives the car more sensitivity to regenerative battery charging activities when you take your foot of the accelerator pedal.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj94HIeoMNTSrbLneZgTBB1mwBlKBrMF7PxB_K956DrpCOHx4mQxmkXAFLlH_DVcoe2OBEidUufNnx7D_n6C7T45WbsVeBQ-FdvJDo4QBtEd-zW6BCzf2B21XMkFBH5RHvfNIWi7DD1d7-I/s1600/Power+Flow.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" m$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj94HIeoMNTSrbLneZgTBB1mwBlKBrMF7PxB_K956DrpCOHx4mQxmkXAFLlH_DVcoe2OBEidUufNnx7D_n6C7T45WbsVeBQ-FdvJDo4QBtEd-zW6BCzf2B21XMkFBH5RHvfNIWi7DD1d7-I/s200/Power+Flow.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Power usage and production can be<br />
viewed on the touch screen.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Overall styling; this is not the space craft design of the 1990’s GM’s EV1 that was offered by the Saturn division, nor is it the bullet shape of the early Honda hybrids either. In all fairness, it looks like every other car on the road today with a classic Chevrolet grill displaying the familiar bow tie logo (the grill is not open to the engine compartment, like in a regular car, as there is no need for a large airflow to cool the engine.) The swooping sides, roofline and upright rear could be mistaken for a current model Acura. Door clunk on closure gives the car a feel of solidity, something that American cars have lacked. Tires are standard issue low rolling resistance Goodyear radials, just like the tires on any new car today, not run flats.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-7VhULpWWZpNBLCofPH4UNbRCMGFvsCdHySezINtMvHsBQ41qlShuM1C1gLb_23qemT9__2GTXm8Y_UlgQwOHX1_9IJx2EBao4EihRgPGSCiih1F5owdWAtACDAX0hsWHhBgZescnSMRm/s1600/Plugging+in+at+home.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" m$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-7VhULpWWZpNBLCofPH4UNbRCMGFvsCdHySezINtMvHsBQ41qlShuM1C1gLb_23qemT9__2GTXm8Y_UlgQwOHX1_9IJx2EBao4EihRgPGSCiih1F5owdWAtACDAX0hsWHhBgZescnSMRm/s200/Plugging+in+at+home.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Volt comes with a 110v plug in charger.</td></tr>
</tbody></table> My overall impression of this vehicle was very good. I would buy this vehicle! Especially if I had less than a 40 mile one way commute and an EV charging station at my destination. With more manufactures’ producing these vehicles, EV charging stations are now becoming more and more common as more communities are supporting the infrastructure for EV technology.<br />
<div><br />
</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyKJ2dDk_cbEyuy8TsrB-r9DDNrP1LPVVp7xSQXL6MW8-ljmOmHHskYvsWrQJdo0bwfSPPY_Sn-h30uj3hDDUcRnOcTlEVSBzKUDMCw_vNC-zm_wuD4LM1qAeuWQUFk-MXc5HSKjMiMkcZ/s1600/DSC02016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" m$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyKJ2dDk_cbEyuy8TsrB-r9DDNrP1LPVVp7xSQXL6MW8-ljmOmHHskYvsWrQJdo0bwfSPPY_Sn-h30uj3hDDUcRnOcTlEVSBzKUDMCw_vNC-zm_wuD4LM1qAeuWQUFk-MXc5HSKjMiMkcZ/s320/DSC02016.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You will still be able to stop at your local gas station<br />
when driving a Chevrolet Volt. The gas fuels the<br />
onboard electric generator.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>The value is there for this vehicle, and with the current high resale values of Hybrids, the VOLT will no doubt retain its value when it comes into the resale market in the coming years. Purchasing it entitles you to a $7500 tax credit making EV ownership more attractive, though you have to have at least $7500 in federal taxes to be able to deduct this credit in the year you purchase the vehicle. In the current cost cutting political climate it is doubtful that we will see that tax credit turn into a tax rebate upon purchase.</div><div><br />
</div><div>EV technology will only continue to improve in the future, GM has done an excellent job in producing the VOLT, and I look forward to seeing what GM has next in the EV Technology pipeline. So for the haters out there: Get used to it; you are going to see this technology developing a whole new automotive enthusiast community!</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbB5T9KiRf0EFgUamFBoYxi8-F-wwY_D8wZJu0wfprQ_-8nketcnLONKFV_QPgCFVG2Dco_a_9UAoSfn4_AWIHuAzWUAYLo56gerhHYk6NcGfJi4TlWgPU_qUKhYkvm9sUVyzzx2LT-SsZ/s1600/GM+Futurelinerblog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbB5T9KiRf0EFgUamFBoYxi8-F-wwY_D8wZJu0wfprQ_-8nketcnLONKFV_QPgCFVG2Dco_a_9UAoSfn4_AWIHuAzWUAYLo56gerhHYk6NcGfJi4TlWgPU_qUKhYkvm9sUVyzzx2LT-SsZ/s640/GM+Futurelinerblog.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">GM Futureliner from the 1940's Autorama traveling technology shows put on by GM.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: right;"></div> <br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>William West Hopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731459759270915266noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8531193075195695125.post-24513902888667699372011-06-17T17:07:00.000-04:002011-06-17T17:07:03.235-04:00Concours d’Elegance of America at St. Johns, Plymouth Michigan on Sunday July 31 2011<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXFExikIsrCA9Qh_RIQEHeZ6sfGL3nOq7CeJGrEAaYjoiy-RwVsx7Fge8yIAErhFrV-glYfAoNGeihfO6cU9_EBGyFJVO-HiXCa4CeoosGMbwEL_s7UPmdJZUEY0V4hy8o1nkNySSXJ7Fm/s1600/slr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXFExikIsrCA9Qh_RIQEHeZ6sfGL3nOq7CeJGrEAaYjoiy-RwVsx7Fge8yIAErhFrV-glYfAoNGeihfO6cU9_EBGyFJVO-HiXCa4CeoosGMbwEL_s7UPmdJZUEY0V4hy8o1nkNySSXJ7Fm/s320/slr.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mercedes-Benz SLR on display at Amelia Island Concours</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I am pleased to report that The Mercedes-Benz Club of America (MBCA) will be a major player in this nationally recognized Concours d'Elegance this year with the participation of the MBCA | International Stars Section in the Concours d'Elegance of America at St. Johns. Formally known as the Meadowbrook Concours d’Elegance, this world-class competition will be a display of significant and rare cars of the highest quality of design craftsmanship and style, not just Mercedes-Benz vehicles, but all kinds of interesting ones. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">MBCA, in celebration of Mercedes-Benz's 125 anniversary of the automobile, will be holding events in conjunction with Mercedes-Benz Financial Services (MBFS), major sponsors of Concours of America, on Friday and Saturday leading up to the Sunday display, with social events as well as a Defensive Driving School for registered attendees. The National Board of Directors of The Mercedes-Benz Club of America has voted for this to be a special MBCA National Event for 2011, and will be on hand to support the International Stars Section throughout this event.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8zWbTABkABV2RFbfFTWm_QhK-d9gB2kaG45p2yLL7sN1Xsh2OCx3vYdbk6d3CmGbBaBKx_qATt30o2iWQDOK5w8P87CWKYQlJBxDql97iPHA67SOGOrSe74qZvGabW6y-ZKeVR0DNA7W7/s1600/rclassaxcones.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; cssfloat: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8zWbTABkABV2RFbfFTWm_QhK-d9gB2kaG45p2yLL7sN1Xsh2OCx3vYdbk6d3CmGbBaBKx_qATt30o2iWQDOK5w8P87CWKYQlJBxDql97iPHA67SOGOrSe74qZvGabW6y-ZKeVR0DNA7W7/s320/rclassaxcones.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mercedes-Benz R320 at an MBCA Defensive Driving School</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><strong><em>Saturday July 30th</em></strong> the International Stars Section will be hosting a Defensive Driving and Autocross at the Compuware Sports Arena parking lot in Plymouth, MI, just down the road from the Inn at St. John, where the Concours will be held on Sunday. For those who are interested in taking the school, the cost is $30 if purchased by July 22, or $40 day of the event (cash only.) Admission includes lunch; the school begins at 8 am sharp. Depending on attendance, two full courses may be run, loaner helmets will be available.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><strong><em>Sunday July 31st</em></strong> For those who are interested in participating in a special Mercedes-Benz Concours on Sunday,, Mercedes-Benz’s will be selected from the advanced entries and will be placed in a special (MBFS) branded viewing area. This display will be in addition to those vehicles on display at the Concours of America.</div> <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpw0kyB9-peQskuAg5evFf8QeiEvNBKugcxcut-lzQYp3NKXcCGjKlD3HaLurUqOVE7Ad_VFZ9jHvx5MxCPbadtaR-42yQSxQfhT3YNY0tuYIicB2Pbv9dbfIBadDee8DXvYhIr4jBTE-c/s1600/IMG_0997.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" i$="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpw0kyB9-peQskuAg5evFf8QeiEvNBKugcxcut-lzQYp3NKXcCGjKlD3HaLurUqOVE7Ad_VFZ9jHvx5MxCPbadtaR-42yQSxQfhT3YNY0tuYIicB2Pbv9dbfIBadDee8DXvYhIr4jBTE-c/s320/IMG_0997.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Classic Mercedes-Benz's on display at June Jamboree</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">For those not showing a car, Mercedes-Benz vehicles will be able to park on the St. John’s Inn golf course in a special (MBFS) employee parking area adjacent to the Concours d’Elegance show field. You need to sign up in advance to get a pass to be allowed to park in the (MBFS) general parking area. Damaged M-B vehicles and non M-B vehicles will be directed to park in the general admission parking lots.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div>MBCA will have a tent on the Concours of America show field across from the Concours d’Elegance grouping of 125 years of Mercedes-Benz. As ambassadors for MBCA (this means we need your help to join us in the tent to promote the club) we will be using the tent as our base of operation and hospitality area. <br />
<br />
<strong><u>For More Information on the MBCA Activities</u></strong><br />
<br />
http://internationalstars.mbca.org/125th-mercedes-benz-concours-celebration<br />
<br />
<strong><u>MBCA Defensive Driving and Concours Registration Form</u></strong><br />
<br />
http://internationalstars.mbca.org/sites/internationalstars.mbca.org/files/Concours_Registration_Form.pdf<br />
<br />
<strong><u>Concours of America Information:</u></strong><br />
<br />
http://concoursusa.org/<br />
<br />
<strong>General Admission - $25</strong> - Ticket includes free off-site parking and shuttle, admission to Concours, and 2011 Souvenir Program Book. Children 12 and under are free.<br />
<br />
<strong>VIP Ticket - $125</strong> - Ticket includes premium onsite parking, admission to Concours, 2011 Poster, 2011 Souvenir Program Book, VIP Viewing Tent, and VIP lunch.<br />
<br />
<strong><u>MBCA Hotel Information</u></strong><br />
<br />
<strong>Towne Place Suites by Marriott, Detroit – Livonia </strong><br />
17450 Fox Drive • Livonia, Michigan 48152 USA <br />
734.542.7400 (direct to the hotel) or 800-257-3000 (Marriott Reservations) identify yourself with the code: MBC - Mercedes Benz Club<br />
<br />
We have the direct registration information from the Marriott Towne Place Hotel for you.<br />
<br />
http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/dtwtl-towneplace-suites-detroit-livonia/?toDate=8/1/11&groupCode=MBCMBCA&fromDate=7/29/11&app=resvlink<br />
<br />
Studio $69 / night <br />
<br />
Two bedroom suite $119<br />
<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Each room has a kitchenette. Continental Breakfast is served daily. There is an outdoor pool. (The rates do not include applicable taxes.)</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Reservations for the rooms above must be made no later than Friday, July 15, 2011 to receive the group rate. Reservations after this date are subject to availability. Confirmed reservations cancellation is by 6PM of the day of arrival to avoid one night's room and tax fee. A major credit card is required at check in.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I look forward to seeing you there!</div>William West Hopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731459759270915266noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8531193075195695125.post-85672175571306510772011-06-12T23:29:00.001-04:002011-06-12T23:29:55.942-04:00A Black-on-Black 2011 Mercedes-Benz C 300 Sport<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNjrcMq_LdvgzR8a-Tm0DFG6drtj7QUtA_3L8PVMVrfZYEHHH9djn9moqdtB9zotb5vQfOv_Q-Sn_j6TUkAtSkBOeN8FlYi9EUg4avtO-UNfcKzvRpv17uRY4-TohAxmn4EavqE6SwmI7P/s1600/Heimatfest+008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNjrcMq_LdvgzR8a-Tm0DFG6drtj7QUtA_3L8PVMVrfZYEHHH9djn9moqdtB9zotb5vQfOv_Q-Sn_j6TUkAtSkBOeN8FlYi9EUg4avtO-UNfcKzvRpv17uRY4-TohAxmn4EavqE6SwmI7P/s320/Heimatfest+008.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">C300 at Barber Motorsports Park. Photo by Kathie Steele</td></tr>
</tbody></table><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";">Recently I had the opportunity to attend MBCA | Alabama Section’s </span></span><span class="NewMembersList"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";"><em>Heimatfest 2011</em></span></b></span><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";">, held at Barber Motorsport Park outside of Birmingham, Alabama. Because this was an MBCA event where the cars were as much a part of the event as were the members, I picked up a new 2011 C Class sedan from my local Mercedes-Benz dealer’s Enterprise rental fleet to drive to the event.</span></span><br />
<div class="Cutline" style="margin: 0in 0in 9pt; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="Cutline" style="margin: 0in 0in 9pt; text-align: left;"><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";">This was your basic, no-frills service loaner, and it provided me with a chance to experience the W204 RWD first hand. The size of the vehicle is excellent for everyday driving, with an excellent turning radius and very good handling, especially in sport mode, where the transmission tends to be a little more spirited, as opposed to the fuel saving economy mode.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNE_mjDlrdbfQG12T_r6cd6Q3Dv1o7MGsBlXIWogF221pxDGHquH1K99jpUm3v6_u8c2B7Lu6NAOKL2uf5vDY3SUQe8dzvvmheC1xykRwC3LkgbbW3xy3jzGWqygUYvOpk754DobRm8ZEX/s1600/DSC01915.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNE_mjDlrdbfQG12T_r6cd6Q3Dv1o7MGsBlXIWogF221pxDGHquH1K99jpUm3v6_u8c2B7Lu6NAOKL2uf5vDY3SUQe8dzvvmheC1xykRwC3LkgbbW3xy3jzGWqygUYvOpk754DobRm8ZEX/s320/DSC01915.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">C300 Engine compartment. Photo by William Hopper</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="Cutline" style="margin: 0in 0in 9pt; text-align: left;"><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";">However, my first impression was that for a base model, the 3 liter engine and seven speed automatic transmission is very powerful for daily driving as well as highway situations. After taking it on a parade lap at the Barber Motorsports Park Track, it made me yearn to try out the 350 or AMG 63 version, as this one was a bit out of breath when I stomped on the accelerator. Because I was on a budget, the fuel sipping virtues of the 300’s engine were perfect with MPG’s in mid-to upper-20’s in town and low 30’s on the highway, cruising at posted highway speeds, using $4 a gallon premium gasoline.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div class="Cutline" style="margin: 0in 0in 9pt;"><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";">The black-on-black in the sport trim gave the vehicle a classic, though athletic look. The durable M-B Tex was impressive. The dash and door panels had faux wood trim, making it feel a bit more upscale than a previous C300 I had driven with brushed aluminum trim. Although not equipped with navigation, satellite radio or MBrace®, the standard audio system had weather band, a classic Mercedes-Benz touch, very helpful when traveling to follow weather conditions along the way. The unit was Bluetooth® equipped and easily connected to my mobile phone, making it safe to talk hands free.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div><br />
<div class="Cutline" style="margin: 0in 0in 9pt;"><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";">The W204 C Class interior is roomy for driver and passenger, but leg room for rear passengers can get tight if either are on the tall side or like the seat back. This model had basic power seat functions, and the console/armrest had plenty of storage inside. The two level glove box was roomy with plenty of storage space, and featured an air vent to keep it cool. The dual front to back cup holders also worked well to hold more than just a water bottle, like an iPod or other electronics. The W204’s trunk is quite roomy and there was no stuffing in suitcases or the other various items I was carrying for my 10-day trip. I was also impressed with the use of space within the engine compartment, and could see that this model was designed to accommodate more than just the base engine.</span></span></div><div class="Cutline" style="margin: 0in 0in 9pt;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9p5Miz6DGcpgREYqMo7v3gZEMUkdveGWSvZ6yXyfYpvDSzwla4_drH_xgmWEi-Pfdi2W9QQD-H_hF7A0oLjK279owROwvMZIyF66SNiWetCWzMUGkNNKLyNZmrDitOM93trARc28JlgAP/s1600/axc300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9p5Miz6DGcpgREYqMo7v3gZEMUkdveGWSvZ6yXyfYpvDSzwla4_drH_xgmWEi-Pfdi2W9QQD-H_hF7A0oLjK279owROwvMZIyF66SNiWetCWzMUGkNNKLyNZmrDitOM93trARc28JlgAP/s320/axc300.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">C300 at GWS Autocross. Photo by Harry Newman</td></tr>
</tbody></table><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro","serif"; font-size: 12pt; font-style: normal; line-height: 120%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Adobe Garamond Pro";">To test its handling and sportiness, I attended our section’s autocross. The electronics caused the car to correct itself during maneuvers around pylons, cutting power, keeping the operator out of trouble, just as it should if it were in a real-world situation. Once the program was defeated through the steering wheel controls, the car maneuvered excellently with only a hint of the advanced electronics. On the road, I took it on the legendary Tail of the Dragon in the Smokey Mountains. An eleven-mile road with three hundred and eighteen curves from Tennessee into North Carolina. This twisty road traverses up and down hills deep in a heavily wooded National Forest. A road that you do not want to speed along, but quite that fun to drive in the right car. The C300 was sprightly and handled well on the tight hairpin turns, the right car for this kind of drive!<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Adobe Garamond Pro;"><span class="NewMembersList"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Leaving the mountain roads and heading back to the Interstate, while driving through a small town, the local constable saw me and quickly turned around and tailed me until I reached the town limits. A black-on-black Mercedes-Benz, even one that is a stripped down rental car, turns heads!<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span></span><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>William West Hopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731459759270915266noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8531193075195695125.post-36334824735164895962011-05-30T12:35:00.001-04:002011-05-30T13:11:47.003-04:00Four Young Guys Spend The Summer Playing With Cars In The State Of North Carolina<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Sounds like something you would have done in your 20’s?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then check out Final Gear NC (FinalGearNC) on YouTube this summer for some amazing videos of this quartet of young guns having fun with their cars in and around the State of North Carolina.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Videographer Rex Yau is documenting the automotive antics of his three friends as they play with cars this summer.</span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Using iconic vehicles from the 1980’s, a Mercedes-Benz SEC, a Ford Mustang and a Toyota MR2 , the three drivers, each with distinctive personalities, driving and competing in various events and venues in and around the state of North Carolina.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A state with quite an automotive racing heritage, though as you will find, not all things on four wheels in NC are NASCAR!</span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Modeled after BBC’s top rated show Top Gear, this has a definite American flavor, and a style that is all its own!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think you will enjoy it!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Follow their videos on YouTube:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>http://www.youtube.com/user/FinalGearNC</span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Follow them on facebook:</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Final-Gear/114497495295828?sk=wall&filter=2</span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Follow them on Twitter:</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>@FinalGearNC</span></div>William West Hopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731459759270915266noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8531193075195695125.post-83148049613820447292011-05-29T15:44:00.004-04:002011-05-29T16:14:56.898-04:00Heimatfest 2011There was so much about MBCA \ Alabama Section's Heimatfest to share, not quite sure where to start.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzFYPEDFvAmbukiL7ree1NLAwY1653HPta7Fp88O9B3Kbip3jCQJUmVIxnsHBvo1zsGPn2ocpNZ2DrhBFY1BaDEBp11i-R3umF1lPbmK-A1aWS6BIRtKMHkGZWqvENdOcfH8XNt3om3Wvs/s1600/DSC01937.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzFYPEDFvAmbukiL7ree1NLAwY1653HPta7Fp88O9B3Kbip3jCQJUmVIxnsHBvo1zsGPn2ocpNZ2DrhBFY1BaDEBp11i-R3umF1lPbmK-A1aWS6BIRtKMHkGZWqvENdOcfH8XNt3om3Wvs/s320/DSC01937.JPG" width="320" /></a>First of all the Barber Motorsports Park and Museum is a magnificent place, be sure to make a note to visit it if you are anywhere near Birmingham Alabama. The facility is pristine and maintained to top standards that even a non automotive or motorcycle enthusiast would appreciate. The park with its 2.38 mile long road track is a delight to drive, and the Barber Museum is a wonderful facility packed to the brim with artifacts of the motorsports world.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL0vx1JibfU5usWMIRSdq0OYEXcL3mpYtU2uY-zUL5eElQRiFuA4pIIfTr81yujV4qwmycTXuB9Vx2tpYPr70-c1sFux0YXkXTRxk4MfAmEI3PhtfeU6RyWQp01g879Q46EIxB9bp1NidT/s1600/DSC01780.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL0vx1JibfU5usWMIRSdq0OYEXcL3mpYtU2uY-zUL5eElQRiFuA4pIIfTr81yujV4qwmycTXuB9Vx2tpYPr70-c1sFux0YXkXTRxk4MfAmEI3PhtfeU6RyWQp01g879Q46EIxB9bp1NidT/s320/DSC01780.JPG" width="320" /></a>Friday was the first day and it was a great opportunity to spend time in the paddock and visit with the Legends of Motorsports race teams. The group got an opportunity to have a one-on-one tour and visit a number of the different crews working on the cars as they were in under the tents for mechanical adjustments between practice races. For those of us who do not have the background knowledge of vintage racing this was a great primer on these historic vehicles. They are not just race cars, but handmade works of art that are passed from one to another to preserve them for the future.<br />
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Having the chance to tour the mechanical shop areas and watch the practice laps got everyone interested in going out for the first of three parade laps that were held throughout the event. Attendees lined up and drove about ten times around the track getting the chance to see the racers line and understand where the apexes were. The lead follow was a great exercises, though for some of us who had driven tracks before it got a bit frustrating as the driver in front was not as experienced on the line as others were. Here is a YouTube video of the first day's parade lap following Matt Johnson in his S2000 <a href="http://youtu.be/CMPCT3gEh6I">http://youtu.be/CMPCT3gEh6I</a><br />
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Later on that evening what has become a ritual for this event was the road rally to Mountain Brook Village. Three groups of vehicles went out with full Police escort to drive to this quaint upscale village. YouTube video of the drive, complete with Police motorcyles and roads blocked off. <a href="http://youtu.be/zCcYW58L_BY">http://youtu.be/zCcYW58L_BY</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWofOAqU8xdMOR6Vin0d2bt5xQ2fXuSn5LAYaQXT01DhoRFTSXY5gIusnaK5Qw1dblP9ITTlowTzN4f5FGO9O8dc_ubePlvNgq4Ry8lLpPquA9xOi99J0EH57dwJbtXnDfC15J-ebLQ71h/s1600/DSC01819.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWofOAqU8xdMOR6Vin0d2bt5xQ2fXuSn5LAYaQXT01DhoRFTSXY5gIusnaK5Qw1dblP9ITTlowTzN4f5FGO9O8dc_ubePlvNgq4Ry8lLpPquA9xOi99J0EH57dwJbtXnDfC15J-ebLQ71h/s320/DSC01819.JPG" width="320" /></a>For members of the Mercedes-Benz Club of America we had reservations for dinner on the balcony over looking the town green at Avo. This provided members a tree top view of the cars on display and the perfect place to watch the arrival and departure of the caravans of show and race cars. The towns was decked out and prepared to celebrate the event in style, closing down the town green for this special event. Kids joined seniors in discussion of the different cars. One of the MBCA members was kind enough to allow several young guys an opportunity to sit in his SL550 AMG. Saying that he remembered being a car crazed kid at their age, and how getting to feel and touch the cars of his dreams led him to be the car enthusiast he is today.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Saturday was an opportunity to meet and greet with other club members, as well as members of other clubs. Because this was a vintage race, many people brought out their classic and historic cars, like Porsche 914's, which take me back to my teenage years, as well as some pretty impressive high performance Ferrari's and other exotics. Of course a Lotus or two was always around, as they were well represented in the weekend's races and their club is very active in the Birmingham area.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMqqiZvFHXd4frzfBF4EeEPSGRemMe8BegmLc4GDTQerEpxxgANAd2ITXICsUAhviIRcJEW67rjNNs7_7Q35lGBZdFHyDrUhkNso23RFZXrx-PrBcc0iJKd6yYt2uo44D0zLcEufiNALJo/s1600/DSC01876.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMqqiZvFHXd4frzfBF4EeEPSGRemMe8BegmLc4GDTQerEpxxgANAd2ITXICsUAhviIRcJEW67rjNNs7_7Q35lGBZdFHyDrUhkNso23RFZXrx-PrBcc0iJKd6yYt2uo44D0zLcEufiNALJo/s320/DSC01876.JPG" width="320" /></a>Another evening, meant another great dinner outing for MBCA members, this time at the Village Tavern at the Summit. Where MBCA members had reserved parking to display their Mercedes-Benz vehicles together as a group. So a great line of M-B's made for quite an impressive sight. This was a great opportunity for the more than 40 diners to visit and share stories from their home sections and find connections with other members on topics from pets, to careers to models of M-B owned. Special thanks go out to the valet staff at the Tavern for their help in placing the cars.</div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrkvNOlTh7lS9vjylZ9WCKkIh0KBI6g06LvgADOp4kir8_ezB7ZK4cPMkjUerrq_E7lChcY_WKh5LU6yN7jxNYmNYJUfcZJY1Yb2UMtZ7dK_-JQRBR5Pr3FZj4dauudKwg456RAbuQOKqA/s1600/DSC01889.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrkvNOlTh7lS9vjylZ9WCKkIh0KBI6g06LvgADOp4kir8_ezB7ZK4cPMkjUerrq_E7lChcY_WKh5LU6yN7jxNYmNYJUfcZJY1Yb2UMtZ7dK_-JQRBR5Pr3FZj4dauudKwg456RAbuQOKqA/s320/DSC01889.JPG" width="320" /></a>Sunday dawned, and MBCA members arrived early to prepare their cars for the Concours, a popular vote with four categories with three winners in each category. The C300 that I had rented from Enterprise Rental at EuroMotorcars Bethesda came in third in the modern sedan category. Quite an impressive array of Mercedes-Benz's were on display from a classic Adenauer to a CDI ML, from a speedy SLK55 owned by a young Alabama car crazed member to the E and S Class sedans.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjREoIv8QSSDBDHBMJl3EC2VQ0Riz5nVGLWCT_d0tipkzHNM5CZGPS-r2-77_kOJ-D4zOjxTomfJie7EV6UsVjQCE_F98XK2VrF2z6MTd_NiEbo6gQLmmnY9ha2l6NC8_5BR2CcAWM7L2kS/s1600/DSC01917.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjREoIv8QSSDBDHBMJl3EC2VQ0Riz5nVGLWCT_d0tipkzHNM5CZGPS-r2-77_kOJ-D4zOjxTomfJie7EV6UsVjQCE_F98XK2VrF2z6MTd_NiEbo6gQLmmnY9ha2l6NC8_5BR2CcAWM7L2kS/s200/DSC01917.JPG" width="200" /></a>Part of the VIP experience was the chance to get to meet Bobby Rahal the founder of Legends of Motorsports and a racing legend himself in person. Mr. Rahal took the time to stop by the car corral during the afternoon and visit with our members. He talked of his racing career, what membership in the car clubs meant to him, and shared some personal one-on-one time with those in the car corral. A raffle was held during the event to raise funds for local tornado victims two of the raffle items were, a ride around the track with Mr. Rahal, and a Bobby Rahal signed helmet, that was won by one of our Central Georgia Members.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">The reason that this MBCA event is called Heimatfest, is because that translates from German into "Home Festival" since Alabama is the home to the American made Mercedes-Benz, the ML all activity vehicle, the GL sport utility vehicle, the G Class an all around people mover and wagon and soon the new C Class will be made there in the Vance Alabama plant as well starting in the 2014 model year.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpA0U_qhdJoQuiP3KgzxVowhsyMXIvQSAVnSIi7UIWS65Q-R6QYERaQZ1Qdi_yu55J_H3BldD4TdVPxvB-eDsqycXgkGuDgg_FBOlI2VPZ-CrfDG52j4YPA74TVWhLJzDIzDj48QhESCfW/s1600/DSC01969.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpA0U_qhdJoQuiP3KgzxVowhsyMXIvQSAVnSIi7UIWS65Q-R6QYERaQZ1Qdi_yu55J_H3BldD4TdVPxvB-eDsqycXgkGuDgg_FBOlI2VPZ-CrfDG52j4YPA74TVWhLJzDIzDj48QhESCfW/s320/DSC01969.JPG" width="320" /></a>And no trip to the MBCA | Alabama Section would be complete without a visit to the plant. So on Monday morning, the hearty arrived early for a 9am tour of plant one, to see the GL being produced. Plant two was closed to the public as they are currently building the yet-to-be-released new W166 ML, due out later on this summer. Along with this visit was also a chance to tour the small Mercedes-Benz museum that is located at the Plant's visitor's and training center. This was a chance to see some of the history of the marque, not only here in America but throughout the world.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">In all Heimatfest 2011 held during the Legends of Motorsports at Barber Motorsports Park was an overwhelming success, members, friends and potential members alike got to join together and share their passion for the Mercedes-Benz brand.</div>William West Hopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731459759270915266noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8531193075195695125.post-87300928944179364862011-05-29T14:31:00.000-04:002011-05-29T14:31:34.755-04:00May 2011 MBCA | Alabama Section Board MeetingI had the pleasure of attending the MBCA | Alabama Board meeting held on Tuesday May 17 at Dale's Southern Grill in Hoover Alabama. <br />
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This was a great chance to meet many of the members of the section, and introduce myself to them.<br />
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The big topic of discussion was the upcoming Heimatfest event to be held at Barber Motorsports Park the following weekend in conjunction with Bobby Rahal's Legands of Motorsports. The details of the dinner events, Concours and special tour of the MBUSI plant in Vance Alabama were all discussed. A presentation from Rena Shanaman President of Legands of Motorsports was made to prepare the members for the event and provide them with last minute details that they would need to have for the event.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK1c_s2j47VFj1urqTmidjtS5mdPpirQ-t4wJrvyDtJ9owV1S-V0wl5AqbSmzR0In43_eP5sAJlwNEuPqenv_Ibl0YE75hc9Vdwyy8A73bUVE0qLWJq_57bcIPphdz9wwB-TE5e1toJTdh/s1600/DSC01736.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK1c_s2j47VFj1urqTmidjtS5mdPpirQ-t4wJrvyDtJ9owV1S-V0wl5AqbSmzR0In43_eP5sAJlwNEuPqenv_Ibl0YE75hc9Vdwyy8A73bUVE0qLWJq_57bcIPphdz9wwB-TE5e1toJTdh/s320/DSC01736.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
It was a great opportunity to socialize and take care of MBCA business.William West Hopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731459759270915266noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8531193075195695125.post-3997739921687157842011-04-23T10:04:00.000-04:002011-04-23T10:04:59.532-04:00Alabama Section Hosts HeimatFest May 20 - 23 2011Join MBCA members in a weekend of Automotive fun topped off with a visit to the MBUSI plant where they make the GL, ML and R Class for a tour of the plant. <br />
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Friday and Saturday will include trips and events at the Barber Motorsports Park as well as group drives, shopping trips and more. Sunday will feature a multi-marque car show at Barber, and Monday will culminate in a tour of the MBUSI Plant where the new 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is now being produced.<br />
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For more information contact Jim Roberts at jertoothsaver (at) bellsouth (dot) netWilliam West Hopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731459759270915266noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8531193075195695125.post-79212080888140172522010-04-19T21:58:00.001-04:002010-11-25T13:12:04.237-05:00Latest MBCA Eastern Region NewsMBCA Fall 2010 National Fall Meetings seat new Directors at Large and Regional DirectorsWilliam West Hopperhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04731459759270915266noreply@blogger.com0