Dudley Michigan Escort

[BRPjunkie]

Just got off the phone with Dudley and they are in Niagara Falls. They plan to meet up with Director (Bruce) in London on Monday and hit Michigan on Tuesday. Details still not final, but hopefully a few of us can provide an escort for part of the trip across Michigan. Weather report for Tuesday is iffy and I have a dinnner in Jackson at 6:30, but I am going to try to meet them somewhere along the way. He plans to let me know later tonight or tomorrow of details.

[dltang]

Just got off the phone with Dudley and they are in Niagara Falls. They plan to meet up with Director (Bruce) in London on Monday and hit Michigan on Tuesday. Details still not final, but hopefully a few of us can provide an escort for part of the trip across Michigan. Weather report for Tuesday is iffy and I have a dinnner in Jackson at 6:30, but I am going to try to meet them somewhere along the way. He plans to let me know later tonight or tomorrow of details.

Well, depending on what time they leave Bruce on Tuesday morning, Brian and can meet them that morning, early afternoon. We both work second shift so the earlier the better. We only live 5 miles off I-69 and they will be coming across from Sarnia/Port Huron last I heard. So, as soon as we know their plans, we can find a time to meet up with them.

[BRPjunkie]

Well, depending on what time they leave Bruce on Tuesday morning, Brian and can meet them that morning, early afternoon. We both work second shift so the earlier the better. We only live 5 miles off I-69 and they will be coming across from Sarnia/Port Huron last I heard. So, as soon as we know their plans, we can find a time to meet up with them.

You could hand them off to me in Lansing and I could get them to Marshall/Battle Creek and maybe Firefly (Dan) and/or Scotty could pick up there. Some Guy in Lansing (other Mike) may have to work, but I'll let him weigh in when he sees the post. I have to be back in Jackson for 6:30 dinner so I hope it's early also.

[Firefly]

I'm free Tuesday after 5pm.... could do a 'hand-off' in Marshall or Battle Creek.

Lemme know!

[Some Guy]

I have to work Tuesday (OK "other Mike"...you're laughing at me now!nojoke) It all depends on the timing...

[Dudley]

Jennifer and I will stay in Niagara Falls, NY tomorrow (7-27). Our bodies need a day off from road. Will be back on the road on Tuesday. What's the travel time for going from Niagara to London, then to Michigan state line? We want to accommodate everyone we can. May work out to where we sleep soon after crossing into Michigan, then get a fresh start the next day.
We had a great time today at the falls. Used a shuttle to get us around. The driver was very informative and quite funny. We rode the Maid of the Mist boat and did the Cave of the Winds. WOW is the best way to describe it. Also saw the fireworks display tonight.

[bjt]

We rode with Bruce and Gail to the Falls this spring. I'm thinking it was 3 or 4 hours, London to Niagara, but I can't recall for sure. Google maps says it just over 2 hours. London to Sarnia is about an hour and probably something less than an hour to cross the border depending on how backed up they are (not too sure as all my crossings are usually weekends and a weekday crossing may have more or less traffic). Port Huron to Grand Blanc is an hour and GB to Lansing is an hour. FYI, Debbie has to leave for work by 1:30 and I have to leave by 1:00 so anything involving us on a weekday would have to be a morning thing.

[Dudley]

Spending today resting, we hope to leave tomorrow morning around 9-10 o'clock. We will travel into Canada to get to Bruce. After meeting Bruce in London (about 1 PM?), that would put us at the Michigan state line in late afternoon. So, we are thinking of getting a motel sometime after we cross the line. This would put us in an early morning ride towards anyone in Michigan. So let us see what happens. The weather may be a bit wet. Anyway, that's what it seems like it will be for the next few days.

[NancysToy]

Sorry to chime in late. Just got in last night from VMD, and are still groggy. Still have to unload, buy groceries, etc. Not sure how much of a ride we will be up to tomorrow, even if we don't get the predicted thunderstorms, but this looks like it is shaping up for Wednesday in Michigan, unless I am reading this wrong. (Told you I was groggy!) Best thing for us would probably be to stay in close contact and play it by ear. I am willing to ride to meet somewhere or do escort duty as long as there is no lightning and thunder (early Wednesday?), had my share of that this weekend. Hoping to hear from Dudley in person when he lands in Michigan at a motel, so we can set something up. Do you mind if I keep in close contact and just hook up the best I can? Not up to a leadership role for a few days. Had my fair share of that this weekend, too. Never up to selecting restaurants, I'm afraid. Don't look to me in that role...for sure!
-Scotty

[bjt]

Wednesday morning puts the kibosh on dltang meeting as she has prior commitments. My Spyder is still in the shop as of this morning so I may not be available as a Spyder escort but I could do a local meet and greet if Dudley and Kjen pass through my neck of the woods.

[Dudley]

Unless dtang is out of the country, we'll do what we can to accommodate her. If you call me, before then, we can discuss a game plan.
520-400-1671

[BRPjunkie]

The day delay takes me out of the game. I was available Tuesday, but Wednesday, I am tied up all day. Rats, after the long wait Michigan Spyders are getting stuck in their webs. Wednesday looks like rain right now, so keep me posted if plans change.

[bjt]

Thursday would be a better day for us but anything that happened would have to keep us within an hour of Flint as we both work an early afternoon shift. dltang would have to speak for her own work schedule on specific days as they are going through a bit of a staffing change at her work, dealing with vacations, etc. and it's required her to have to vary from her set 2pm - midnight schedule for the past few weeks.

[Dudley]

Hey guys. The escort service you offered is appreciated, but a hand shake and a signing is awesome in of itself (Plan B). We will do whatever we can to get at least that much. Don't worry about an escort. Let's just try Plan B.

[NancysToy]

How far do you plan to travel on Wednesday, Dudley?
-Scotty http://www.pmdawnonline.com/forum/images/smilies/velo.gif

[dltang]

Wed. I can be done by 11:30 a.m. and could plan a meet up by noon at the Belsay Rd. exit, I can't remember for sure but I think it is exit 145 or something like that. It is about an hour from Port Huron/Sarnia border. There is a Sunoco gas station on the south side of the express way and we could have our meet and greet, hand shake and signing right there. From there both bjt and I could be ready to leave for work. I can't be any earlier that is for sure, and 12:30 would be the absolute latest for Brian. It is a tight window but if you want to try for it, I think we could make that work.
Deb

[Dudley]

Wed. I can be done by 11:30 a.m. and could plan a meet up by noon at the Belsay Rd. exit, I can't remember for sure but I think it is exit 145 or something like that. It is about an hour from Port Huron/Sarnia border. There is a Sunoco gas station on the south side of the express way and we could have our meet and greet, hand shake and signing right there. From there both bjt and I could be ready to leave for work. I can't be any earlier that is for sure, and 12:30 would be the absolute latest for Brian. It is a tight window but if you want to try for it, I think we could make that work.
Deb

Let's make it happen! If all goes well, we can be waiting for you all by 11:30. It's exit 141 and I have seen the Sunoco station on Google street view.

[BRPjunkie]

Talked with Dudley today and we will try our best to at least get to meet. I have the Grandsons on Wednesday as his Mom and Grandma have an out of town trip. I can't ride the Spyder, but the boys would probably enjoy a road trip in the car. I was thinking perhaps Scotty, Dan and I could meet them in Marshall. Since they will be coming down 69, we could all meet at the Wendy's on Michigan Ave, exit 36 on 69. I think it might be better for them to stay on 69 down to either the toll road or highway 20 and stay off 94. I think Deb and Brian are going to try to do a hook up around noon, so about 2-3 hours to get to Marshall. We have tomorrow to get a meeting place and time confirmed and Dudley has cell phone numbers and can keep us posted on progress on Wednesday especially if it rains. Any other ideas??

[NancysToy]

Wed. I can be done by 11:30 a.m. and could plan a meet up by noon at the Belsay Rd. exit, I can't remember for sure but I think it is exit 145 or something like that. It is about an hour from Port Huron/Sarnia border. There is a Sunoco gas station on the south side of the express way and we could have our meet and greet, hand shake and signing right there. From there both bjt and I could be ready to leave for work. I can't be any earlier that is for sure, and 12:30 would be the absolute latest for Brian. It is a tight window but if you want to try for it, I think we could make that work.
Deb
Belsay Rd is Exit 141 off I-69.
-Scotty http://www.pmdawnonline.com/forum/images/smilies/velo.gif

[Some Guy]

:gaah::gaah::gaah:

I wish I could join you all, but, unlike BRPJUNKIE (a.k.a. "other Mike"!), I have to work. As always, keep me in mind for other rydes (which you all do! :thumbup:)

Mike

[NancysToy]

Talked with Dudley today and we will try our best to at least get to meet. I have the Grandsons on Wednesday as his Mom and Grandma have an out of town trip. I can't ride the Spyder, but the boys would probably enjoy a road trip in the car. I was thinking perhaps Scotty, Dan and I could meet them in Marshall. Since they will be coming down 69, we could all meet at the Wendy's on Michigan Ave, exit 36 on 69. I think it might be better for them to stay on 69 down to either the toll road or highway 20 and stay off 94. I think Deb and Brian are going to try to do a hook up around noon, so about 2-3 hours to get to Marshall. We have tomorrow to get a meeting place and time confirmed and Dudley has cell phone numbers and can keep us posted on progress on Wednesday especially if it rains. Any other ideas??
I am considering riding to Grand Blanc for the first meet, and riding with Dudley & Jennifer to the Marshall stop. I will probably ride my BMW so I won't have an extra gas stop. From there we will see what Dudley's plans are. Hope to talk to him today. A meet in Marshall, here at the house, or anywhere else would probably suit me. I'll go along with whatever works for the rest of you. My schedule seems to be the most flexible this week.
-Scotty http://www.pmdawnonline.com/forum/images/smilies/velo.gif

[bjt]

I am considering riding to Grand Blanc for the first meet, and riding with Dudley & Jennifer to the Marshall stop. I will probably ride my BMW so I won't have an extra gas stop. From there we will see what Dudley's plans are. Hope to talk to him today. A meet in Marshall, here at the house, or anywhere else would probably suit me. I'll go along with whatever works for the rest of you. My schedule seems to be the most flexible this week.
-Scotty http://www.pmdawnonline.com/forum/images/smilies/velo.gif

:thumbup:

[SpyderRyder810]

Bob (RLS) and I just checked our schedules and we can meet you all at exit 141, Belsay Rd. tomorrow at 11:30 AM and help escort to Marshall, MI. We look forward to seeing old friends and meeting new Spyderlovers. See you tomorrow...Joan

[bjt]

Bob (RLS) and I just checked our schedules and we can meet you all at exit 141, Belsay Rd. tomorrow at 11:30 AM and help escort to Marshall, MI. We look forward to seeing old friends and meeting new Spyderlovers. See you tomorrow...Joan

:ohyea: :ohyea:

[bjt]

Sunoco on Belsay Road just south of I-69. The station is on the left side of the road, a couple hundred yards off the expressway. I can't hardly wait.

[Firefly]

I can't get away from work until 5:00 this week- but I could certainly go to Marshall for a meet-up-- or in Battle Creek.

I *might* have someone getting back from vacation tomorrow- if so I can scoot out early---- but I'm not counting on it....:(

Keep the updates coming---- will hook up one way or another.

[Firefly]

Just found out I WILL be able to get out of work early tomorrow ---- so I can hook up with you guys in the afternoon for the Marshall meet-up.

If you're looking for ideas on a meetup place in Marshall , I can suggest two.

One would be the Hi-Lite drive-in.
1005 E Michigan Ave, Marshall, MI.
Not sure of their hours of operation.
Kind of like an A&W.

The other would be my favorite stop in Marshall:

Dark Horse Brewing
511 S. Kalamazoo Ave.
Marshall, MI 49068
(1/2 mile south of fountain , behind Wacky Willy's Party Store)

Great beer (and other non-beer products for the safety conscious ;))
GREAT pizza and food!
Neat atmosphere including an outdoor beer garden.

There is also Schulers/Winstons Pub.

Not sure if you're just looking for a quick meetup - or a drink--- or some food?

Let me know what you guys think.

[BRPjunkie]

I had only suggested the Wendy's on Michigan Ave at exit 36 simply as an easy off/on as I knew I was not going to be riding and would have two Grandsons in tow. I will go wherever the group wants to meet, but my stay will be short as 3 year old and 1-1/2 year old have short attention spans. I just want to meet the crazy cross country California couple and wish them well on the rest of their journey.

[Firefly]

I had only suggested the Wendy's on Michigan Ave at exit 36 simply as an easy off/on as I knew I was not going to be riding and would have two Grandsons in tow. I will go wherever the group wants to meet, but my stay will be short as 3 year old and 1-1/2 year old have short attention spans. I just want to meet the crazy cross country California couple and wish them well on the rest of their journey.

Heck-- I've been told I have a short attention span too.

So we could----

Now what were we talking about????:roflblack:

Dark Horse has a sandbox for kids to play in...... ;)

Wendy's is fine too--- really---- doesn't matter to me.....

[BRPjunkie]

Heck-- I've been told I have a short attention span too.

So we could----

Now what were we talking about????:roflblack:

Dark Horse has a sandbox for kids to play in...... ;)

Wendy's is fine too--- really---- doesn't matter to me.....

Dark Horse would be fine, but sand box is not. Let's see, when Mom gets home and asks what did you and Grandpa do today, the 3 year old can say we went to the brew pub! As soon as you and I stop twittering on this thread, maybe the real riders and their escorts can weigh in on options. :D

[Firefly]

Dark Horse would be fine, but sand box is not. Let's see, when Mom gets home and asks what did you and Grandpa do today, the 3 year old can say we went to the brew pub! As soon as you and I stop twittering on this thread, maybe the real riders and their escorts can weigh in on options. :D


Whatever our honored guests would like to do is cool with me!

I just tend to avoid chain restaurants --- especially when on vacation---- love to try the local fare. Not that I've been on a real vacation in awhile!

[NancysToy]

I'll be at Belsay Rd. for the meet, then help escort. Sorry, not on the Spyder, it hurts my knee too much right now. Talking to the doc next week about new hardware. It is more comfortable on my BMW, plus I shouldn't have to stop for gas at all. Not sure I will participate in the restaurant gig, since I still have to be exceedingly careful about my eating habits. Don't need another hospital visit just yet! Depending on when we hit Marshall, and when & where our CA Wanderers go from there, Nancy may be able to ride the Spyder to meet us after she returns from the dentist. Looking forward to seeing everyone, even if only briefly or while in transit. BTW, Welcome home Joan & Bob.

[Dudley]

We are now settled in at the Crazy (Super) 8 motel on Lapeer in Flint. We are about a couple of miles west of exit 141. We are gonna sleep in!!!!! We are very looking forward to tomorrow as we have each time we are meeting Spyder Ryders. Looking to make tomorrow happen!:ohyea:

[BRPjunkie]

Scotty/Dan: time to pick a place in Marshall. Sounds like Scotty, Bob and Joan will be escorting them and Dan and I will meet up with you. Flint to Marshall about 2 hours, so let us know when you leave. I will try to get the boys their naps and lunch so I can get to wherever we're going to meet as close to the designated time as possible.

[NancysToy]

Why don't we just meet in the big parking lot at the Shell station coming into town, then folks can decide where to go from there?

[Some Guy]

:gaah::gaah::gaah:

I'm so jealous of you all! I would LOVE to be there, but there is no way I can get out of work for the meet.

Have fun! Eat a couple french fries for me! :D

[BRPjunkie]

Why don't we just meet in the big parking lot at the Shell station coming into town, then folks can decide where to go from there?

I like that plan. Shell station at 69 and Michigan Ave. That way, everyone can meet and then decide on next steps. Hope weather cooperates. Sure would like to be part of the escort group, but I will be escorting some pretty important passengers myself. Just call my cell phone when you leave Flint or from somewhere along the way and give me an ETA.

[RLS]

Scotty,
Joan and I'll be at the Sunoco station between 11:00 and 11:30. Looking forward to seeing you again.

[Dudley]

:gaah::gaah::gaah:

I'm so jealous of you all! I would LOVE to be there, but there is no way I can get out of work for the meet.

Have fun! Eat a couple french fries for me! :D

What would it take to make it happen for you? We could meet just with you later in the afternoon.

[Firefly]

I like that plan. Shell station at 69 and Michigan Ave. That way, everyone can meet and then decide on next steps. Hope weather cooperates. Sure would like to be part of the escort group, but I will be escorting some pretty important passengers myself. Just call my cell phone when you leave Flint or from somewhere along the way and give me an ETA.


Sounds good----- Any idea on about what time? Sometime in the afternoon--- right?

Can you post out here when you hear from them Mike??

Hey--- other mike----- Marshall is only 38 miles from your house---- so even if you left after work--- that might work????

If you don't show up I'll tell all kinds of stories about you--- that may or may not be true! :roflblack:

[retread]

Minor hijack, when will you be getting to IN?

john

[NancysToy]

I forgot to mention that this is the Shell station near I-69, near K-Mart, before you enter town from the west. Not the other Shell station which is downtown.

[Dudley]

Minor hijack, when will you be getting to IN?

john


Not sure yet. Plan on dipping into Ohio for the travels credit, then cutting West through Indiana on I-90, then head North in Illinois for Wisconsin, then cut West on I-90 for Minnesota and South Dakota.

[BRPjunkie]

Just got the call from Scotty and they are leaving Flint and ETA in Marshall at I-69/Mich Ave Shell is 2:30.

[Firefly]

Just got the call from Scotty and they are leaving Flint and ETA in Marshall at I-69/Mich Ave Shell is 2:30.


Thanks!

Good excuse for me to leave work soon!

[Some Guy]

What would it take to make it happen for you? We could meet just with you later in the afternoon.

Sorry I didn't reply sooner, I just read this. I can't get out of work sometimes until 5:30 or 6:00PM and it would take me 45 minutes to get to Marshall. If I could have gotten the afternoon off, I could have met you here in Lansing and escorted you to Marshall.

Sorry I missed you two. :(

Keep having a great trip! :thumbup:

[Dudley]

Sorry to have missed you also. We had a great time meeting everyone yesterday. This trip will be one to talk about for a long time for Jennifer and me. It's gradually winding down. It will be good to get home, but we'd do it again.