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CFFC Fall Color Tours 2019!

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Topic: CFFC Fall Color Tours 2019!
Posted By: m38mike
Subject: CFFC Fall Color Tours 2019!
Date Posted: 07 Jan. 2019 at 3:02pm
Welcome to the 2019 CFFC Fall Color Tour Announcement and Discussion Thread!

Let us take you on a tour of the Colorado Rockies, complete with blue skies, gold and red aspen leaves, lots of rocky dusty roads, and some of the best folks you could ever go Jeeping with. 



Mark your calendars for the week of September 15 - 20 for some high adventure!  Bruce, Ron, and myself will be leading two tours every day, taking you into the mountains, crossing creeks, exploring high meadows and passing through the shadows of aspen in full fall foliage.  I hope you'll be able to join us.  We're planning to make a few changes for this year.  Stay tuned to this thread to learn what's new for 2019.  

As we have in the past, we'll offer free camping at Thirsty Dirt Ranch.  And we'll have our potluck dinner and raffle prize giveaway on Thursday evening.  And we'll offer some training in mountain driving for those who are new to the challenges that our Jeep trails offer.  Nancy and I, along with Bruce and Ron, are looking forward to seeing old friends and meeting new friends in this year's Fall Color Tours! 


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M38Mike
46 CJ2A SAMCJ2A
4?-5? CJ2A/3A/M38 Jigsaw
51 M38 Green Jeanne
52 M38 Blue Mule, 51 M100 Blue Mule Tale
52 XM38EV1 Electro-Willys, 52 M100 Juice Box



Replies:
Posted By: mickeykelley
Date Posted: 07 Jan. 2019 at 3:30pm
We missed our first planned year last year with too many last minute jeep issues.  But they are mostly worked out now and hopefully will even have the PTO winch installed. So we are marking the calendar. We are the ones with the droopy front fenders. Embarrassed

Not thinking wife is up to a full week, but probably just 3 days.  I should get some mountain trail experience in NM I this summer.  Which days do you suggest for newbs?  


Posted By: m38mike
Date Posted: 08 Jan. 2019 at 12:20pm

Welcome to the 2019 Fall Color Tours discussion thread. We look forward to seeing many smiling faces again in September.  But we’ve got a few changes we’d like to make for this year.

 

2018 was one for the record books.  We had 68 Jeeps participate in the FCT, and over 130 people attended.  We had several new runs that folks enjoyed.  And we had 22 states represented in the group.  We were successful beyond my expectations in bringing so many Flat fender Jeeps together to celebrate good Jeeps, good friends, and good trails.  In fact by mid-week I think my fun-meter was pretty well pegged.  Despite the great cooperation from all who were here, and the handful of folks who help me host this event, I began to feel like this had gone beyond what I was comfortable trying to manage.  I came to the realization that I need to limit the size of this event to retain my sanity, and to be able to enjoy my guests. 

 

So for 2019 I am making a few changes that I hope will help.  The first change will be implementing advanced registration.  We’ve had registrations for the last two years and we’ve appreciated everyone’s cooperation in filling them out.  We don’t charge for registration, or participation, and that won’t change.  The purpose for having the registration is to have information about all participants in the event we have a medical emergency affecting any of our guests.  We’ve had old friends suffer from medical conditions in other places, and if they should suffer when they are with us, we want to know who to contact and how to reach them. 

 

As part of the registration form, we are including a liability waiver.  I’ve been advised that I should have one by many people over several years.  This last year we had a few instances that could have put us in jeopardy of being held liable for tragic events.  Fortunately those events did not become tragic, but they were close enough to raise concern.  As a result I sought assistance and guidance in putting together a Liability Waiver that will now be part of the registration.  It’s written in plain English so most folks should be able to read it and understand what it says.  If you have questions about it I’ll be happy to discuss it with you.

 

I’m planning to limit the size of the Fall Color Tours to 50 Jeeps, around 100 people. We were close to that number in 2016 and 2017, and I was fairly comfortable with those numbers.  So how am I going to limit the numbers, and how will I choose who can come?  I’ll tell you now.

 

The first part will be the pre-registration.  The form is available online at this web site:

https://www.thecj2apage.com/forums/uploads/1479/cffc_fct_2019_Registration_2018-11-29_15-09-43.pdf" rel="nofollow - https://www.thecj2apage.com/forums/uploads/1479/cffc_fct_2019_Registration_2018-11-29_15-09-43.pdf

Anyone who wants to participate needs to print out the form, then fill it out. Mail it to me at:

Mike Picard, 20123 Hideout Lane, Nathrop, CO 81236.

 

The form will be available from now through the end of April. I need to have forms from everyone by April 30, 2019.  For the second part of the process, on the 1st of May I will use a random number generator to assign numbers to each form. I will put the forms in order from 1 to 100.  The first 50 will get to come. The rest will have the option of being on an alternate list if someone in the first 50 cancels out. I will send out notices to the address on each registration form with the results. This is the fairest way I could come up with to select the 50 Jeeps for this year.

In the coming months we’ll post a list of essential and recommended parts that each Jeep should have.  By sometime in June we’ll post the roster of trail rides for the week. In between we’ll answer questions and talk about many aspects of the tours.

 

I don’t want this to become the ‘Woodstock’ of Willys events by growing too large.  I also don’t want it to become a business.  I want it to continue to be an informal gathering of Willys Jeep enthusiasts who enjoy riding rugged trails in the mountains together. By limiting the numbers in a fair fashion, I hope to keep this event available to any old Jeep owner, and help our circle of friends continue to grow.

 

Again, Welcome to the 2019 FCT thread.  I hope we’ll have many engaging discussions in the months to come.



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M38Mike
46 CJ2A SAMCJ2A
4?-5? CJ2A/3A/M38 Jigsaw
51 M38 Green Jeanne
52 M38 Blue Mule, 51 M100 Blue Mule Tale
52 XM38EV1 Electro-Willys, 52 M100 Juice Box


Posted By: bretto
Date Posted: 08 Jan. 2019 at 1:39pm
Printed.
On the list, you have 4 lines for 4 different names.  I assume that's to mean a max of 4 people per Jeep/entry.  What if that line up of people were to change before the event?  Can that be adjusted as needed as long as it stays within the max of 4?
Brett


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http://s1201.photobucket.com/albums/bb356/1brale/M38%20restore/" rel="nofollow - PHOTO DIARY OF MY BUILD


Posted By: lowenuf
Date Posted: 08 Jan. 2019 at 2:04pm
Originally posted by bretto bretto wrote:

Printed.
On the list, you have 4 lines for 4 different names.  I assume that's to mean a max of 4 people per Jeep/entry.  What if that line up of people were to change before the event?  Can that be adjusted as needed as long as it stays within the max of 4?
Brett

For people like myself, and a few others, we come alone most of the time, so that should garner enough room for ppl that have more than one, and still remain near Mike's 100 ppl total...


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45 #10012
45 #10033 ACM #47
45 #10163 ACM #188
57 CJ5    Dauntless V6, T-18 4-speed, D-44 rear/D-30 front, D-20 twin stick





Posted By: m38mike
Date Posted: 08 Jan. 2019 at 2:56pm
Originally posted by bretto bretto wrote:

Printed.
On the list, you have 4 lines for 4 different names.  I assume that's to mean a max of 4 people per Jeep/entry.  What if that line up of people were to change before the event?  Can that be adjusted as needed as long as it stays within the max of 4?
Brett
Here I am very flexible.  If you have 6 people in your family and they will all be going out, then add some lines to the back of the form and add the extra folks on there.  We don't usually get more than 3 folks per Jeep, but sometimes the whole family comes.  I don't want to cut it off at 4 people per Jeep in attendance.  

Can you change the names after you send in your registration?  Yes.  Right up to the day you arrive, you can make adjustments.  Part of the reason for having the early registration is so I have time to input all this info into a spreadsheet that I can print out for Ron, Bruce, and myself to take with us.  That way we'll have critical info about each person at hand, and we won't have to shuffle registration cards every morning.  That is a pain.  Changing a name will be easy to do in the spreadsheet, then we'll reprint that page for our field copy. 


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M38Mike
46 CJ2A SAMCJ2A
4?-5? CJ2A/3A/M38 Jigsaw
51 M38 Green Jeanne
52 M38 Blue Mule, 51 M100 Blue Mule Tale
52 XM38EV1 Electro-Willys, 52 M100 Juice Box


Posted By: chasendeer
Date Posted: 08 Jan. 2019 at 4:06pm
What "type" of jeep os best for this trip? Can a stock restored one go without too much worry of damage, or is a modified one better?
Thanks
Jay



Posted By: m38mike
Date Posted: 08 Jan. 2019 at 4:27pm
chasendeer,  The best Jeep for these tours is a flat fender Jeep.  We offer a range of tour challenges from mild to wild.  We have had museum quality restorations join us and tour the week without damage.  And we have a modified crowd that loves to tackle the tough stuff.  Most folks and most Jeeps are in the middle.  The Jeeps are mostly stock, but some will have a few mods.  Anything from cup holders to overdrives.  Some have reproduction fabric-covered wires and a few have V6 engines.  You get to choose the degree of difficulty for the trails you'd like to try.  Most will leave here without putting a single scratch on their Jeep.  All 3 guides drive Jeeps with 4 cylinder engines.  We're not out to race around the countryside, but to tour around the countryside.  I hope this helps.  

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M38Mike
46 CJ2A SAMCJ2A
4?-5? CJ2A/3A/M38 Jigsaw
51 M38 Green Jeanne
52 M38 Blue Mule, 51 M100 Blue Mule Tale
52 XM38EV1 Electro-Willys, 52 M100 Juice Box


Posted By: chasendeer
Date Posted: 08 Jan. 2019 at 4:41pm
Mike 
Glad to hear this. I have a 2a that went over the Rubicon this summer with the Qwaaazy 8's, but I would prefer to take my GP. Not afraid to scratch it, but don't want to roll it down the rockies!

Thanks
Jay



Posted By: 64CJ5
Date Posted: 08 Jan. 2019 at 5:11pm
Mike thanks for the post on the dates of the '19 FCT.  My calendar is marked and I will get the registration off to you soon. 

Till we Jeep again!  Tom


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64CJ5 "Eeyore"
01TJ "Tigger"
52 M38 Severely demilitarized, "Popeye" The Coast Guard Jeep.
14 JK "Jake"
To Trust Government Defys Both History and Reason.

PUBLIC LAND Owner/User


Posted By: Fred Coldwell
Date Posted: 08 Jan. 2019 at 9:37pm
Mike and Nancy:

Thanks for hosting this wonderful jeep event again this year.  My calendar is marked and the registration form has been mailed.  Com'on snake eyes . . . baby needs a new pair of tires.  LOL


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Happy Jeep Trails,


Fred Coldwell
Denver, CO
1944 CJ2-09 - X-33
1945 CJ2-26 - X-50



Posted By: tamnalan
Date Posted: 08 Jan. 2019 at 11:19pm
Mike that’s a good plan. I used Excel spreadsheet generators a lot in my work. It’s fair, and I’m hopin’. 

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Alan Johnson
1942 MB - "TBD"
1943 MB - "Lt Bob"
1950 cj3a
M-100 x2
teardrop camper: https://forums.g503.com/viewtopic.php?f=141&t=201740


Posted By: tamnalan
Date Posted: 08 Jan. 2019 at 11:23pm
Jay you gotta bring the GP. 
An annual military-heritage lineup on Aspen Ridge is a great pic. 


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Alan Johnson
1942 MB - "TBD"
1943 MB - "Lt Bob"
1950 cj3a
M-100 x2
teardrop camper: https://forums.g503.com/viewtopic.php?f=141&t=201740


Posted By: Katiedid
Date Posted: 08 Jan. 2019 at 11:33pm
I know better than to ask for preference points as your sister. I will however remind you that my shoulder will be healed and capable of handling the coffee pot ….. if I make the cut. Oiy, the pressure. It's mean to make us wait until May, just sayin' …...

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Katiedid
48 CJ2A Waltzing Matilda


Posted By: Joe Friday
Date Posted: 08 Jan. 2019 at 11:54pm
Kate - although I didn't see it specifically stated, there is only one entry form per person allowed. Sending one every week till the deadline will not help your chances. Or will it?


Posted By: Katiedid
Date Posted: 09 Jan. 2019 at 12:23am
Joe Friday - you're a genius! This is the FCT after all, no holds barred.
You guys have shown me creative genius on the trail, I hope I can rise to the occasion.
Besides which I have a secret weapon -- and her name is Mom.


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Katiedid
48 CJ2A Waltzing Matilda


Posted By: m38mike
Date Posted: 09 Jan. 2019 at 12:41am
So Katiedid raises an interesting question.  Why wait until May to find out if you're selected?  I picked May because it gives everyone 4 months to get the registration forms in to me, and it gives you 4 months to get your vacation lined out if you're coming.  I'm not opposed to moving it up to the first of April if there are enough folks who are interested in that.  I'm sympathetic to those who are still working for bosses who want to know vacation plans months in advance. 

And Joe Friday, with his tongue firmly planted in his cheek, asks "will sending in one form every week help your chances?"  Or something like that.  While I smile at the "lottery potential" of having a new form each week from some caring 4-wheel fanatic, to be truthful, the answer is no.  Sending in new forms for personnel changes, or corrections is fine.  But when the new one comes in, the old one is archived - and not used in the random number lottery.  So save the stamps and make your best guess on your first registration.  


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M38Mike
46 CJ2A SAMCJ2A
4?-5? CJ2A/3A/M38 Jigsaw
51 M38 Green Jeanne
52 M38 Blue Mule, 51 M100 Blue Mule Tale
52 XM38EV1 Electro-Willys, 52 M100 Juice Box


Posted By: mriceflinter
Date Posted: 09 Jan. 2019 at 2:50pm
Mike, My registration is in the mail! Even though I would like to know sooner than May, It makes no difference between the two for me. Let those who have to know sooner make the call. Looking forward to seeing everyone again this year. I guess we will see about that, and thank you and Nancy for doing this every year. It means a lot to all of us. Mike


Posted By: TERRY
Date Posted: 09 Jan. 2019 at 10:46pm
So, when do the scalpers start selling their places!Dead


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BOULDER 48 2A


Posted By: aboyandhisdog
Date Posted: 09 Jan. 2019 at 10:58pm
Originally posted by TERRY TERRY wrote:

So, when do the scalpers start selling their places!Dead


No doubt May 2, Terry!


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Tom
1949 CJ3A

http://www.fuelly.com/car/willys/cj3a/1949/aboyandhisdog/367873" rel="nofollow">


Posted By: SE Kansas 46 CJ-2A
Date Posted: 09 Jan. 2019 at 11:04pm
Well, I probably don't stand a snowball's chance in hell of getting picked to go, but my registration will be in the mail tomorrow.

Missed last year because the trailer I had planned to use didn't arrive in time. That is how my luck goes...

I do understand the reasoning for putting a limit on the number of participants. Frankly, I am amazed that limits weren't established some time ago.

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46 CJ-2A #64462 "Ol' Red" (bought April 1969)(second owner)(12 V, 11" brakes, M-38 frame, MD Juan tub)

U.S. Coast Guard Chief Petty Officer(ret.)
U.S. Army Vietnam veteran and damned proud of it.





Posted By: m38mike
Date Posted: 09 Jan. 2019 at 11:47pm
Originally posted by aboyandhisdog aboyandhisdog wrote:

Originally posted by TERRY TERRY wrote:

So, when do the scalpers start selling their places!Dead


No doubt May 2, Terry!

Yeah!  Scalpers!  Why didn't I think of that?  And if they don't give me 60% then they don't get to pick the replacement.  What an idea! 

NOT!!!
SE Kansas CJ2A, I'm sorry you missed last year too, but then I'm also glad.  Then we'd have had 69 Jeeps.  Yup, just too many.  But don't despair.  If you look at the odds of getting to go they are far better than you may think.  Let's say I get 70 registrations.  I've got 50 slots to fill.  50 divided by 70 gives me 0.71 or 71%.  So you have a 7 in 10 chance of getting a lucky registration.  Show me a lottery with those odds and I'll be buying every ticket I can.  

And speaking of "buying" your ticket, for anyone contemplating sending a "donation" to sweeten the odds of selection, well, let me explain how that works.  You see, the registration will go into the registration folder, and the "donation" will go into the expenses folder.  They will forevermore be separated and disassociated with each other.  The random number generator will pick your number, and that's the number you'll get.  So save the "donation" until you arrive here next fall.  

So Lee, what do you want me to do with the green that you sent me???



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M38Mike
46 CJ2A SAMCJ2A
4?-5? CJ2A/3A/M38 Jigsaw
51 M38 Green Jeanne
52 M38 Blue Mule, 51 M100 Blue Mule Tale
52 XM38EV1 Electro-Willys, 52 M100 Juice Box


Posted By: mike in oregon
Date Posted: 10 Jan. 2019 at 1:41am
Wow Mike, 68 jeeps, that's a lot. The most I have had is 7 here at the Oregon Spring Fling. I have always wanted more but there is no way I could handle that. I don't blame you for cutting it off at 50 as That is still a lot but it sounds like you have helpers which  I am sure is a big help. I will come join you someday soon I hope. Good luck and happy Jeepin

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MIKE IN OREGON
President of Oregon Flat Fender Club.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Oregon-Flat-Fender-Club/222864787838570

46 CJ2A 38007
46 CJ2A 79863
BANTAM T3-C 25314


Posted By: m38mike
Date Posted: 10 Jan. 2019 at 12:34pm
Yes Mike, life was a lot easier when there was just a dozen of us.  Not so many breakdowns.  Didn't take up a quarter mile of road trying to park the group.  We could all fit in a small viewpoint.  Only took a minute for everyone to arrive at our lunch spots.   And my tail gunner wasn't 3 miles behind me, he was only 300 yards behind me. 

But you know what?  Now our circle of friends has really grown very large.  I've been able to learn some new things from the good folks who have joined us in the last few years.  And over the decade plus that we've been doing this, I estimate we've had over 200 Jeeps and over 350 people participate at least once.  I'm glad to be able to share the trails that we enjoy here in this part of Colorado.  And I enjoy seeing the smiles on driver's faces when they discover just how steep a hill their Jeep can climb, or how deep a creek they can ford, or how high in elevation their Jeep can go while still running well.  So it's worth it to me, but it is a lot of work to make it all go smooth.  


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M38Mike
46 CJ2A SAMCJ2A
4?-5? CJ2A/3A/M38 Jigsaw
51 M38 Green Jeanne
52 M38 Blue Mule, 51 M100 Blue Mule Tale
52 XM38EV1 Electro-Willys, 52 M100 Juice Box


Posted By: jpet
Date Posted: 10 Jan. 2019 at 12:42pm
I think I might not bring a jeep this year (if chosen). On these types of trails, I like riding and having someone to talk to more than driving.

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CJ2A #29110 "General Willys"
MB #204827 "BAM BAM"

"We do what we can, and we try what we can't"


Posted By: Joe Friday
Date Posted: 10 Jan. 2019 at 1:38pm
But Qwaazy Seven's doesn't sound right.

You are correct though. Riding in a different Jeep with a different  person has been very rewarding over the years. Thank you to everyone that has tolerated my hitching a ride on a trail.


Posted By: mickeykelley
Date Posted: 10 Jan. 2019 at 3:16pm
Mike, I can't even really know how much work it takes but can imagine based on reading prion years.  Part of what makes it work for you is your location and spread.  Maybe more helpers volunteer and have a spring and a fall event?  I know that's probably asking a lot, but just a suggestion. 


Posted By: athawk11
Date Posted: 10 Jan. 2019 at 3:59pm
Originally posted by mickeykelley mickeykelley wrote:

Mike, I can't even really know how much work it takes but can imagine based on reading prion years.  Part of what makes it work for you is your location and spread.  Maybe more helpers volunteer and have a spring and a fall event?  I know that's probably asking a lot, but just a suggestion. 

The only problem with this idea is that at those elevations, there is no Spring.  Winter ends sometime in mid July.LOL


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1- 1946 CJ2A   
2- 1949 CJ3A


Posted By: m38mike
Date Posted: 10 Jan. 2019 at 5:50pm
mickeykelley, thank you for the suggestions.  For all the work involved in getting ready, running, and closing it down, there's just no way I'd want to do this twice a year, and no guarantee I would cut the crowd in half.  Heck, I'd probably get everyone coming back twice each year!!  Besides, like Hawk said, winter stays late in the high country so many of the best roads stay closed until summer. May is when we get some of our heaviest snows.  Cottonwood Pass often is not open until Memorial Day, and then you're driving between 8 foot snow banks.  So our spring Jeeping would be limited to roads in the valley and there aren't many of them.  As for helpers, I've got 3 of the best with Kate, and Bruce, and Ron.  And I'm not bashful about getting early arrivals to do some of the prep work, like moving stuff, or cleaning in the shop.  The help I get from volunteers means a lot to me, and certainly lightens my load.  But the more folks who come, the larger my workload.  And that's OK to a point. Last year took me beyond that point.  This year will bring it back within reason.  I hope! 

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M38Mike
46 CJ2A SAMCJ2A
4?-5? CJ2A/3A/M38 Jigsaw
51 M38 Green Jeanne
52 M38 Blue Mule, 51 M100 Blue Mule Tale
52 XM38EV1 Electro-Willys, 52 M100 Juice Box


Posted By: tumbleweed
Date Posted: 10 Jan. 2019 at 8:58pm
Howdy ya'll from North Texas. Good gosh Mike you only posted a few days ago and we are already on page 2! As soon as I can get ink for my dang printer I'll be sending in my registration as well. If we are lucky enough to get a spot we will be there early again (ahh the luxury of retired life). Last year was totally awesome, we saw a moose on day 1 and the pot luck dinner was fantastic. The only Debbie downer was that I didn't to get jam at camp with JPET. Hope that all changes in 2019. I will always have a seat open for anyone needing a ride.

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49 CJ3A - Smokey
53 Willys Wagon - Wylie


Posted By: m38mike
Date Posted: 11 Jan. 2019 at 12:59pm
I know what you mean George, I guess there's lots to say.  And I sure agree with you about retired life.  Of course it helps if you have a good retirement income too.  I'm feeling doubly blessed to have both a comfortable retirement, and so many good Jeeping friends who'd like to join us for the Fall Color Tours. But being able to Jam with Jpet (sounds like a concert title) has been a tough thing in the last couple years.  That young man has just been all over the place and hasn't taken the time to share tunes like we used to.  Maybe if we get him to bring the General instead of BamBam, then he'd spend a few evenings in camp with his guitar.  I think that would be lots of fun.  George, do you suppose you could encourage a few more musicians to pack instruments along so we could have a jam night or two? 

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M38Mike
46 CJ2A SAMCJ2A
4?-5? CJ2A/3A/M38 Jigsaw
51 M38 Green Jeanne
52 M38 Blue Mule, 51 M100 Blue Mule Tale
52 XM38EV1 Electro-Willys, 52 M100 Juice Box


Posted By: tumbleweed
Date Posted: 11 Jan. 2019 at 7:42pm
I agree with you. I know what you mean about our friend Jeff. I follow him as many others do on the website and that man is on the go almost all the time. I will see what I can do to get more interest in the all new jug band for a few nights of fun. Sounds great to me though. I may get a separate thread going so as to not pirate this event thread. Stay warm and hopefully we will "See you in September" See already a song! (Beach Boys)

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49 CJ3A - Smokey
53 Willys Wagon - Wylie


Posted By: 3A Steve
Date Posted: 12 Jan. 2019 at 1:25am
As a one time participant I really appreciate what Mike and Nancy have done. Mike set up my FRS radio, Nancy helped me keep my WV pepperoni rolls refrigerated. Do understand the need to limit the number of people/jeeps to some manageable number. The CFCT is something that has made the world a better place (at least my world). Would be more than happy to have a participant fee to help cover the costs I know Mile and Nancy have to pay (and/or to cover additional help).

3A Steve


Posted By: Ol' Unreliable
Date Posted: 12 Jan. 2019 at 6:05am
Originally posted by jpet jpet wrote:

I think I might not bring a jeep this year (if chosen). On these types of trails, I like riding and having someone to talk to more than driving.


You've driven the trails so many times, you could lead a group if necessary.  Thumbs Up

Originally posted by 3A Steve 3A Steve wrote:

Would be more than happy to have a participant fee to help cover the costs I know Mike and Nancy have to pay

This is why I bought so many raffle tickets last year.  The cool hat and the Willys pickup (Matchbox, but still...) were just bonuses! 


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There's a reason it's called Ol' Unreliable


Posted By: tamnalan
Date Posted: 12 Jan. 2019 at 8:05am

Originally posted by jpet jpet wrote:

I think I might not bring a jeep this year (if chosen). On these types of trails, I like riding and having someone to talk to more than driving.


I'm up for just riding.  This fall the MVPA is holding TMC 2019, the 100th anniversary of the Army's 1919 Lincoln Highway expedition from Wash DC to San Fran.  It ends on 15 Sep.  My plan is to head directly from there to Nathrop.   Me and my MB will both be very tired but FCT is just too fun to miss.  I'm a walk-in if my number doesn't hit, subject to host approval.

You folks with military jeeps -- we have a layover on 30 August in Laramie and another on 5 Sep in Tooele.  Fallon on the 10th.  Think about joining up -- a few days or the rest of the way to SF.  You civvy jeep guys... hop a ride!  Lots of open seats.  Convoys are a blast too.  I met our esteemed host on the Alaska trip.  Can he and Electro-Willys squeeze in a brief stint on this one?  Be a huge honor for me to bum a ride.

Sorry - enough hijack.



-------------
Alan Johnson
1942 MB - "TBD"
1943 MB - "Lt Bob"
1950 cj3a
M-100 x2
teardrop camper: https://forums.g503.com/viewtopic.php?f=141&t=201740


Posted By: m38mike
Date Posted: 12 Jan. 2019 at 12:08pm
3A Steve, I don't want to charge a participation fee or any kind of fee because then I'm starting to run a business.  I don't want a business, I want good Jeeping friends to join me cruising in the mountains and enjoying the fall colors.  Donations and Raffle ticket sales cover our expenses, like table and chair rental, porta-potties, trash disposal, electricity, Jeep parts, etc..  

Thanks Ol' Unreliable for buying so many tickets.  Maybe next time you'll get to win one of the grand prizes.  

Alan you continue to amaze me with the ideas you come up with.  In this instance it's walk-in-folks.  I've been kinda focused on limiting the number of Jeeps, and I haven't even thought about folks who might just show up without a Jeep and hitch rides where there's an empty seat.  And yet, I think every year since year 3 we've had folks join us without their Jeep.  So let's do this.  We'll take walk-ins but I still need a registration form and waiver from them.  I don't think there will be many, so this year there will be no limit on walk-ins.  If you know you're coming as a walk-in, please send in a registration form early so I can add you to the computer list.  You will not need a random number to attend.  If you send in a registration to come with a Jeep, and get on the alternates list, you can come as a walk-in.  We'll just cross your Jeep off your form.  

Geez Alan, you're making me do a lot of thinking for 5 am in the morning. 


-------------
M38Mike
46 CJ2A SAMCJ2A
4?-5? CJ2A/3A/M38 Jigsaw
51 M38 Green Jeanne
52 M38 Blue Mule, 51 M100 Blue Mule Tale
52 XM38EV1 Electro-Willys, 52 M100 Juice Box


Posted By: mriceflinter
Date Posted: 12 Jan. 2019 at 2:13pm
Mike,
 I am pretty sure of the answer to this question but I think the answer should come from you for obvious reasons. Will the days a person is planning to be at FCT effect their odds of being picked to attend. I know it sounds like a silly question but I think some may not send in their registration thinking chances will be reduced if they are not going to be there all week. Just a thought.  Mike


Posted By: jeephawk
Date Posted: 12 Jan. 2019 at 5:01pm
Mike, our registration and waiver is in the mail.  Thanks again for hosting this event. I know it’s a huge amount of work and you should be able to enjoy it.  We all have come to look forward to our week of jeeping with our Willy’s friends and soaking in the awesome scenery.  Hopefully we’ll be lucky enough to attend again this year. Jeff

-------------
54cj3b
55 pu
56cj5


Posted By: m38mike
Date Posted: 13 Jan. 2019 at 12:09am
mriceflinter, No, the number of days you plan to be here during FCT are not considered in the assignment of random numbers.  And there is no way I can tell who's going to be here for two days or two weeks from the registration form.  If you want to be here, send in a form.  If I have your form on May 1, the random number generator will give me a number for that form.  Then the forms get put into order from one to one hundred.  I know that some folks are coming a long way to be here and may miss a day or two as a result of travel time.  And that others will have other reasons for missing some days.  That's OK.  I'm glad that each of you are making an effort to be here and be part of the fun.  

And speaking of forms, at the end of the first week of registration we have 12 forms on file.  I'll try to remember to post how many forms I have at the end of each week.  Until I get 51 forms, everyone who registered is invited to come.  


-------------
M38Mike
46 CJ2A SAMCJ2A
4?-5? CJ2A/3A/M38 Jigsaw
51 M38 Green Jeanne
52 M38 Blue Mule, 51 M100 Blue Mule Tale
52 XM38EV1 Electro-Willys, 52 M100 Juice Box


Posted By: aboyandhisdog
Date Posted: 13 Jan. 2019 at 12:19am
Mike, I have to ask...what is a "random number generator" and how does that work?  Is it a phone app or what?  Has it been certified by the state?  Anything like a "flux capacitor?  Inquiring minds need to know!


-------------
Tom
1949 CJ3A

http://www.fuelly.com/car/willys/cj3a/1949/aboyandhisdog/367873" rel="nofollow">


Posted By: Bruce W
Date Posted: 13 Jan. 2019 at 1:18am
Originally posted by aboyandhisdog aboyandhisdog wrote:

Mike, I have to ask...what is a "random number generator"?  Anything like a "flux capacitor?  Inquiring minds need to know!

Actually, I think it's more like a "turbo encabulator".  LOL  BW


-------------
It is NOT a Jeep Willys! It is a Willys jeep.

Happy Trails! Good-bye, Good Luck, and May the Good Lord Take a Likin' to You!

We Have Miles to Jeep, Before We Sleep.


Posted By: Unkamonkey
Date Posted: 13 Jan. 2019 at 1:30am
If you remember the old Fletch movie, as he is working on a plane, "It's your Fetzer valves, wait, it's all done with ball bearings now"

-------------
uncamonkey


Posted By: mriceflinter
Date Posted: 13 Jan. 2019 at 4:44am
I always thought it was part of the improbability drive from hichhikers guide to the galaxy! 


Posted By: m38mike
Date Posted: 13 Jan. 2019 at 12:29pm
Tom, I'll tell it to you straight because you asked an honest question and you deserve an honest answer. Thumbs Up It's a true dystal-confabulatory system that allows for creation of interstitial digital anomalies when prosecuted with alacrity. Wacko  And if that's not clear enough, then google "random number generator" and see what appears. Wink

-------------
M38Mike
46 CJ2A SAMCJ2A
4?-5? CJ2A/3A/M38 Jigsaw
51 M38 Green Jeanne
52 M38 Blue Mule, 51 M100 Blue Mule Tale
52 XM38EV1 Electro-Willys, 52 M100 Juice Box


Posted By: Dmac
Date Posted: 13 Jan. 2019 at 2:50pm
Mike,
It appears that Alice has been bumped for vacation time. It looks like we will be staying at our friends cabin the 8th to possible the 17th. I know you will be busy but maybe we can grab a bite of dinner out somewhere or?? If those days free up she might be able to adjust her time accordingly, however we are not going to fill out a registration and take a slot someone else can use for sure. So what I`m saying is we will be in the area at some point, but out of the event this year.
 
Dennis & Alice


-------------
43 Ford GPW "AWOL"
48-52 CJ Series Bubba Jeep


Posted By: aboyandhisdog
Date Posted: 13 Jan. 2019 at 3:06pm
Originally posted by m38mike m38mike wrote:

And if that's not clear enough, then google "random number generator" and see what appears. Wink


Hey, that's pretty cool.  Sort of like the draft lottery only without all the hard work and the vacation to Vietnam at the end!Wink


-------------
Tom
1949 CJ3A

http://www.fuelly.com/car/willys/cj3a/1949/aboyandhisdog/367873" rel="nofollow">


Posted By: m38mike
Date Posted: 13 Jan. 2019 at 4:22pm
Dmac, I'm sorry you won't be part of this year's FCT, but we can still get a ride or two in.  I may still be scouting new trails and would love to have you along.  Dinner plans will be made for sure.  

Tom, yup it works pretty slick.  And in testing it a couple of times it seems to give me a good spread of numbers.  


-------------
M38Mike
46 CJ2A SAMCJ2A
4?-5? CJ2A/3A/M38 Jigsaw
51 M38 Green Jeanne
52 M38 Blue Mule, 51 M100 Blue Mule Tale
52 XM38EV1 Electro-Willys, 52 M100 Juice Box


Posted By: Nothing Special
Date Posted: 13 Jan. 2019 at 10:48pm
In spite of how it sometimes seems, computers are really good at doing exactly the same thing every time, less good at doing things randomly.  So often computer random number generators actually do have some repeatability.  I know that back in the day the "random" number generator in Lotus 1-2-3 (remember that?) always gave the exact same sequence.  The sequence seemed random the first time through, but if you paid attention you realized that you were going to get exactly the same "random" sequence each time you used it.

Of course that doesn't matter at all for this use.  It'll be plenty random for this purpose (and I doubt anything available now is as primitive as 1980s spreadsheet software!).  But it might be worth considering if you are trying to use the random number generator for creating an encryption code for top secret espionage or something!


-------------
Bob

Flatfender wannabe
https://www.thecj2apage.com/forums/nothing-specials-71-bronco_topic42024_post411994.html?KW=#411994" rel="nofollow - '71 Ford Bronco


Posted By: AKoller
Date Posted: 15 Jan. 2019 at 2:07pm
Mike, Thanks for hosting this event again this year. I can't imagine the work that goes into it. Will you be giving any kind of confirmation showing that you received our registration form, or do we just need to have faith in the USPS that they delivered it?

-------------
1950 CJ3A "Thumper"
1966 M151 A1
1942 GPW #70221


Posted By: Unkamonkey
Date Posted: 15 Jan. 2019 at 3:15pm
Good luck with it all. I was a cook for a while and had to cook for too many people. I did it without my helpers a few times. I have had a few parties here and cooked for 30 or 40 people. One guy still wants me to cook up chili con carne for him. The pigs we roasted were fun. Cleaning up is a chore.

-------------
uncamonkey


Posted By: tamnalan
Date Posted: 16 Jan. 2019 at 4:28am
Speaking of interstitial conflabulatory Fetser valves, I am a very recently retired college professor.  I no kidding taught class on random number generation. 😁. Let’s face it. Random number generators are seldom discussed by anyone but nerdy people. Suddenly my topic is hot!
I would be pleased to offer the Reader’s Digest version of how Excel’s RND() works at FCT.  Beer might help. Excel’s current generator is fully mission capable. 


-------------
Alan Johnson
1942 MB - "TBD"
1943 MB - "Lt Bob"
1950 cj3a
M-100 x2
teardrop camper: https://forums.g503.com/viewtopic.php?f=141&t=201740


Posted By: m38mike
Date Posted: 16 Jan. 2019 at 2:12pm
Originally posted by AKoller AKoller wrote:

Mike, Thanks for hosting this event again this year. I can't imagine the work that goes into it. Will you be giving any kind of confirmation showing that you received our registration form, or do we just need to have faith in the USPS that they delivered it?

That's a good question.  How about if I publish the last name on each registration I receive each week along with the tally of total registrations received during that week?  And if you still want more reassurance then send me a PM and I'll chat with you directly offline. 

Originally posted by Unkamonkey Unkamonkey wrote:

Cleaning up is a chore.

You got that right.  Fortunately all our guests have always been very good about cleaning up after themselves, so that chore has been minimal.  Just hauling loads of trash to the dump has been a chore.  

Originally posted by tamnalan tamnalan wrote:

Speaking of interstitial conflabulatory Fetser valves, I am a very recently retired college professor.  I no kidding taught class on random number generation. 😁. Let’s face it. Random number generators are seldom discussed by anyone but nerdy people. Suddenly my topic is hot!
I would be pleased to offer the Reader’s Digest version of how Excel’s RND() works at FCT.  Beer might help. Excel’s current generator is fully mission capable.

Most Excellent!  A subject matter expert in a field where I am a novice, but require faith in it working for me.  OK Professor, a question on results.  If I select a generator, and specify a range of 1-100, should I expect to see any duplicate numbers displayed (i.e. 27 twice) during it's generation of say 90 numbers?  

And since I would like to get this data into an excell spreadsheet for the guides to have in case we have an accident, perhaps I should start building my spreadsheet now.  And between now and May you can tutor me on effective ways to use excell's RMD(.) command.  Professor Alan, are you up to the challenge?


-------------
M38Mike
46 CJ2A SAMCJ2A
4?-5? CJ2A/3A/M38 Jigsaw
51 M38 Green Jeanne
52 M38 Blue Mule, 51 M100 Blue Mule Tale
52 XM38EV1 Electro-Willys, 52 M100 Juice Box


Posted By: AKoller
Date Posted: 16 Jan. 2019 at 2:28pm
Originally posted by m38mike m38mike wrote:

Originally posted by AKoller AKoller wrote:

Mike, Thanks for hosting this event again this year. I can't imagine the work that goes into it. Will you be giving any kind of confirmation showing that you received our registration form, or do we just need to have faith in the USPS that they delivered it?


<div style=": rgb248, 248, 252;">That's a good question.  How about if I publish the last name on each registration I receive each week along with the tally of total registrations received during that week?  And if you still want more reassurance then send me a PM and I'll chat with you directly offline. 
<div style=": rgb248, 248, 252;">
<div style=": rgb248, 248, 252;">
Originally posted by Unkamonkey Unkamonkey wrote:

Cleaning up is a chore.
<div style=": rgb248, 248, 252;">
<div style=": rgb248, 248, 252;">You got that right.  Fortunately all our guests have always been very good about cleaning up after themselves, so that chore has been minimal.  Just hauling loads of trash to the dump has been a chore.  <div style=": rgb248, 248, 252;">
<div style=": rgb248, 248, 252;">
Originally posted by tamnalan tamnalan wrote:

Speaking of interstitial conflabulatory Fetser valves, I am a very recently retired college professor.  I no kidding taught class on random number generation. 😁. Let’s face it. Random number generators are seldom discussed by anyone but nerdy people. Suddenly my topic is hot!<div style=": rgb248, 248, 252;">I would be pleased to offer the Reader’s Digest version of how Excel’s RND() works at FCT.  Beer might help. Excel’s current generator is fully mission capable.
<div style=": rgb248, 248, 252;">
<div style=": rgb248, 248, 252;">Most Excellent!  A subject matter expert in a field where I am a novice, but require faith in it working for me.  OK Professor, a question on results.  If I select a generator, and specify a range of 1-100, should I expect to see any duplicate numbers displayed (i.e. 27 twice) during it's generation of say 90 numbers?  <div style=": rgb248, 248, 252;">
<div style=": rgb248, 248, 252;">And since I would like to get this data into an excell spreadsheet for the guides to have in case we have an accident, perhaps I should start building my spreadsheet now.  And between now and May you can tutor me on effective ways to use excell's RMD(.) command.  Professor Alan, are you up to the challenge?


Sounds good Mike.

-------------
1950 CJ3A "Thumper"
1966 M151 A1
1942 GPW #70221


Posted By: mickeykelley
Date Posted: 18 Jan. 2019 at 3:44am
Originally posted by m38mike m38mike wrote:

That's a good question.  How about if I publish the last name on each registration I receive each week along with the tally of total registrations received during that week? 

That's a great way if it not too much work.  It would probably cut down on 'did you get mine' .


Posted By: m38mike
Date Posted: 20 Jan. 2019 at 11:49pm
Time for our weekly report on registrations.  This week we picked up 19 new registrations.  Added to the 12 from last week and we have a total of 31.  So that means that if no one else registers, then everyone gets to come.  

Let me do a last name list from last week.  Carlson, Waddle, Meyers, Brozek, Rice/Musick, Johnson, Ralls, Hinton, Koller, Fitch, Hawkridge, Coldwell.  

This week's last name list is, in no particular order:  Sanders, Herrera, Schiefer, Johnson/Moore, Rudy, Franks, Reichart, Dennis/Herrmann, Kelley, Vogelzang, Johnson, Heitman, Chillemi, Rodgers/Souders, Rodgers, Jones/Barker, Kjome, DeYoung/Speck, Buckley/Gilliland. 

I hope the last name lists will let you know that I've received your registration form.  You're all set for the FCT lottery in May.  I really appreciate that everyone has filled them in well, and printed as neatly as possible.  That sure helps my poor eyes when I'm reading them.  And on a personal note, Rick Thank You for your note dated the 16th, and the tools you sent.  I'll make sure they're put to good use. 

As always, if you have any questions about your registration you're welcome to send me a private message, or an email by clicking on my forum name on the left.  If you're question is of a general nature, and the whole group might benefit from hearing the answer, feel free to ask it hear in this thread.  Others have done that and everyone benefits.  

If you know of someone who would like to join us, but does not have a computer, or does not subscribe to this thread, please let me know and I'll send him/her a form with a cover letter explaining what we're doing this year.  

Thanks to everyone for your cooperation.  This will help us continue this event long into the future.


-------------
M38Mike
46 CJ2A SAMCJ2A
4?-5? CJ2A/3A/M38 Jigsaw
51 M38 Green Jeanne
52 M38 Blue Mule, 51 M100 Blue Mule Tale
52 XM38EV1 Electro-Willys, 52 M100 Juice Box


Posted By: Bruce W
Date Posted: 21 Jan. 2019 at 2:29am
Shocked!  I'd better get busy and get my form printed, filled out, and sent in!  LOLWinkBig smile  BW

-------------
It is NOT a Jeep Willys! It is a Willys jeep.

Happy Trails! Good-bye, Good Luck, and May the Good Lord Take a Likin' to You!

We Have Miles to Jeep, Before We Sleep.


Posted By: m38mike
Date Posted: 21 Jan. 2019 at 6:02am
Originally posted by Bruce W Bruce W wrote:

Shocked!  I'd better get busy and get my form printed, filled out, and sent in!  LOLWinkBig smile  BW

That's right!  You don't want to set a bad example and procrastinate until late April getting your form turned in.  what would happen if you missed the deadline???  Shocked  Ouch  OMG!  What would I do?? CryLOL


-------------
M38Mike
46 CJ2A SAMCJ2A
4?-5? CJ2A/3A/M38 Jigsaw
51 M38 Green Jeanne
52 M38 Blue Mule, 51 M100 Blue Mule Tale
52 XM38EV1 Electro-Willys, 52 M100 Juice Box


Posted By: Fltfndr
Date Posted: 21 Jan. 2019 at 7:09am
If I can take you up on any suggestions, would there be any value in requesting everyone get fuel the night before. At Sugar Shack if returning from the South and BV if returning from the North. Might result in more trail time.


Fltfndr

-------------
Fltfndr
1948 CJ2A Restomod "Six Pac"
The object of war is not to die for your country, but make the other bastard die for his. George S. Patton


Posted By: m38mike
Date Posted: 21 Jan. 2019 at 10:14am
Fltfndr, you make a very good suggestion.  I've been on other Jeep rides before where we were expected to be fueled up and ready to go at the appointed hour.  It's a doable thing.  And it would certainly get us out on the trail sooner in the morning.  I will talk it over with my guides and see if we will include this change in our year of great changes.  Thank you for voicing your thoughts on this. 

-------------
M38Mike
46 CJ2A SAMCJ2A
4?-5? CJ2A/3A/M38 Jigsaw
51 M38 Green Jeanne
52 M38 Blue Mule, 51 M100 Blue Mule Tale
52 XM38EV1 Electro-Willys, 52 M100 Juice Box


Posted By: Fltfndr
Date Posted: 21 Jan. 2019 at 9:16pm
If you liked that one try this. Why not convince Sugar Shack to send a tank wagon to the ranch every day about 5:00 P.M. with credit card accessability


Fltfndr

-------------
Fltfndr
1948 CJ2A Restomod "Six Pac"
The object of war is not to die for your country, but make the other bastard die for his. George S. Patton


Posted By: m38mike
Date Posted: 21 Jan. 2019 at 10:23pm
Originally posted by Fltfndr Fltfndr wrote:

If you liked that one try this. Why not convince Sugar Shack to send a tank wagon to the ranch every day about 5:00 P.M. with credit card accessability


Fltfndr

Ok, now your batting .500.  You were batting 1.000.  Sugar Shack is an independent gas station.  They have no tankers of any kind.  So they can't transport fuel.  And I don't want to establish a refuel site at the TDR.  I help to do it for fire camps, I don't want it in my back yard.  Did you ever watch the "Gong Show" back in the day?  Contestants would try to impress the judges with music or some talented skill.  If the judges didn't like it, they would hit the gong and that contestant was sent away.  Well, this idea deserves a big "GONG!!" 


-------------
M38Mike
46 CJ2A SAMCJ2A
4?-5? CJ2A/3A/M38 Jigsaw
51 M38 Green Jeanne
52 M38 Blue Mule, 51 M100 Blue Mule Tale
52 XM38EV1 Electro-Willys, 52 M100 Juice Box


Posted By: Unkamonkey
Date Posted: 21 Jan. 2019 at 10:45pm
This may seem simple, take more fuel with you. My 3B can carry 30 gals of fuel. I have never run out and have had to help several on the trail. You will still need to gas up every few days.


-------------
uncamonkey


Posted By: Fltfndr
Date Posted: 22 Jan. 2019 at 12:50am
Hey mike,

I appreciate the fact that no hook was used, that would hurt! The big leaguers don't hit anywhere near .500


Fltfndr

-------------
Fltfndr
1948 CJ2A Restomod "Six Pac"
The object of war is not to die for your country, but make the other bastard die for his. George S. Patton


Posted By: 3A Steve
Date Posted: 22 Jan. 2019 at 1:22am
How about having the muzzleloading day in the morning? Could do a short trail in the afternoon. Would give people who don't shoot or who would like to spend the morning exploring Buena Vista or Salida. 

I brought a flintlock I never got to shoot (which is ok, it needed the exercise) . The one day my son didn't go with me for the "trail of the day" he found an interesting city museum with a great rock exhibit and some interesting locals. 

I'm fine with the gas yourself recommendation, most of us have spare gas if someone needs more.

One last thought, might be possible to have someone agree to be a "left behind" helper. If someone has a flat tire or some other breakdown, they could stay with them to help patch a tire, replace a tube or just pick up a passenger to return them with or without their jeep. Would allow the larger group to continue while not leaving some poor smuck (like me maybe) be left alone. If I were the stay behind volunteer, I would need a local map. Following Cowbell coming off Tincup, I was damned if I would loose him because I had no idea where I was.

Steve


Posted By: aboyandhisdog
Date Posted: 22 Jan. 2019 at 1:29am
Has gassing up in the mornings actually been a problem?  What if people just left after the driver's meeting in the morning to get gas whenever they are ready to go and then we just all meet at the station?  Do we really need to all arrive at the gas station in a group at one time?


-------------
Tom
1949 CJ3A

http://www.fuelly.com/car/willys/cj3a/1949/aboyandhisdog/367873" rel="nofollow">


Posted By: 3A Steve
Date Posted: 22 Jan. 2019 at 1:49am
That would add an additional delay. The station is not always on the way to the day's trail. Also, most of us want non-ethanol gas which the station offers. And if it is the departure point we will have the same tangle tanking up with non-ethanal and that takes time. Why meet at the station? Just get the gas of your choice before the driver's meeting.


Posted By: Ol' Unreliable
Date Posted: 22 Jan. 2019 at 3:05am
The Sugar Shack people would wonder what's going on if they weren't inundated with Jeeps gassing up every morning that week.  They sell a lot of other stuff those mornings besides gas, don't they?


-------------
There's a reason it's called Ol' Unreliable


Posted By: m38mike
Date Posted: 22 Jan. 2019 at 4:53pm
Unkamonkey, since you don't tour with us your extra gas doesn't help us. Sorry about that.

Yup fltfnder, you got a good average, and you're still in the game.

3A Steve, I'm thinking that our primary reason for gathering together is the Jeep tours, not the rifle range.  We weren't able to do the range last year because we had to do some recovery operations.  What if we couldn't do the Jeep tour because of some problem with the rifle range?  A lot more folks would be disappointed.  We can try the rifle range again, but it needs to follow a Jeep tour, not be in front of it. 

I don't like the "left behind helper" unless it's the right rig/person.  And the few guys who I would consider for this don't ride with the tours, or they are your guides.  Even if someone knows the trails, what happens if the breakdown is more serious than the "helper" can fix in the field.  One of the Tenets of the Fall Color Tour is that "No Jeep gets left behind".  We ALWAYS get a Jeep to a place where it can be recovered with a truck and trailer.  Sometimes we even tow the Jeep all the way back to the shop.  That sometimes takes a team effort, so keeping the group together gives us the team.  And knowing that we can get anyone out of the woods together gives many of us peace of mind that we won't be abandoned or forgotten.  And since MOST Jeeps don't carry any self recovery tools like jumper cables or recovery straps, and only some carry spare tires, jacks and lug wrenches, I rely on the groups collection of tools to be able to provide the right tool to fix the problem. 

Aboyandhisdog, Getting gas in the morning simply takes a lot of time.  It does give me the reassurance that everyone has enough gas to drive for the day.  But it often takes a half hour to get through the gas pumps, and the bathroom line, and the coffee line.  In the old days of the early FCT, there were a few folks who thought they could get through the day without filling up.  We often had to stop during the day to refuel them.  I saw the morning refuel as a way to stop this from happening.  But with the increasing Jeep numbers, we are taking too much time going through the fuel pumps.  So I am thinking that it's time to give everyone their personal responsibility for refueling again.  I would love to have that half hour to spend getting out onto the trails instead of waiting in a parking lot.  And if we're headed south for our tour for the day, I would prefer not to have half the group waiting at the gas station for the rest of us to drive by and pick them up.  What do I do if someone is still waiting for a gas pump?  No, I will ask that everyone be refueled before the driver's meeting so we can all leave TDR as a group.  Now to encourage everyone to make sure they are gassed up, I will have a "No-Gas Award" for those who run out of fuel.  The details of that award you'll get to see at your next FCT.  Thanks Tom for asking those questions.

Ol' Unreliable, Yes they do sell lots of snacks and coffee to our crowd.  I'm not here to help them peddle products.  But I will promote their alcohol free gas.  It makes a difference in high places by not causing vapor lock. 


-------------
M38Mike
46 CJ2A SAMCJ2A
4?-5? CJ2A/3A/M38 Jigsaw
51 M38 Green Jeanne
52 M38 Blue Mule, 51 M100 Blue Mule Tale
52 XM38EV1 Electro-Willys, 52 M100 Juice Box


Posted By: Unkamonkey
Date Posted: 22 Jan. 2019 at 5:19pm
M38mike.Things just don't bother me. As I said, I have never run out of fuel. I carry 50 gals of diesel in my motor home and usually stop for fuel to just give my butt a rest. My fathers truck carried 64 gallons and a friends fathers motorhome has a 250 gallon tank. I suppose I have a bit of envy.

-------------
uncamonkey


Posted By: mriceflinter
Date Posted: 22 Jan. 2019 at 5:24pm
Mike,
 One quick question. Do you know the hours of operation for the sugar shack during the FCT?  Mike


Posted By: athawk11
Date Posted: 22 Jan. 2019 at 5:51pm
I have stopped a number of times at the Sugar Shack prior to business hours.  The pumps have been on, even when the business isn't open.  I don't know if this is a conscious business decision by the owner, or they were accidentally left on, but it has worked out for me.Smile

-------------
1- 1946 CJ2A   
2- 1949 CJ3A


Posted By: 3A Steve
Date Posted: 22 Jan. 2019 at 7:35pm
Mike, I must say I did feel comforted that if anything had happened to my jeep you would make it come out right. It was greatly appreciated. 

While I had no problems at CFCT, within a week after I got back to WV my Kaiser "power" starter died followed by my overdrive linkage breaking leaving me stuck in overdrive. 

As to shooting, my main goal was to drive, not shoot. Only mentioned doing it first if you are going to do it. You are certainly right that driving comes first. 

Really appreciate all you and Nancy and others have done. Even if I don't get back it will remain a memorable highlight.


Posted By: tumbleweed
Date Posted: 22 Jan. 2019 at 8:29pm
I'm all for being ready to run trails after the morning drivers meeting. I always carry a jerry can with fuel on the trails for myself and for those moments when a fellow jeep'r needs help. I think last year we overloaded their septic system too!

-------------
49 CJ3A - Smokey
53 Willys Wagon - Wylie


Posted By: Willys Guy
Date Posted: 23 Jan. 2019 at 12:03am
Mike,

Got my form filled out and in the mail. Is there some way of doing an "air drop" to get my form there faster. Can't wait, we had a good time last year for our first time.

John

-------------
JC


Posted By: Lee MN
Date Posted: 23 Jan. 2019 at 12:09am
First off, I will not be an applicant this year, that will hopefully make room for a first timer who can have the opportunity to a FCT expierience!, my past 3 visits were vacations that I will never forget, and I’m sure I can speak for my wife, sister and buddy Rolf who were each right seaters! 👍👍👍. I do find the gas in the morning a time burner, but we all need gas. I have stayed at hotels on my three tours, Salida on the last two, so I passed the gas stop each morning on my way to the TDR, last year I brought along a gas can that holds 8 gallons, I’d stop and fill it up on my way and then top off the Jeep each morning, that worked very well for me!... Also, on my 3 FCT I do not believe I’ve ever used more than 7 gallons on a daily ride so there’s no reason to carry excessive ammounts of extra gas, most days 4-5 gallons.

    Many thanks to Mike & Nancy and everyone else who make this event possible!

Lee

-------------
               LEE
44 GPW-The Perfected Willys
49 2A
“If you wait, you only get older”
67 M715
American Made Rolling History


Posted By: jss5724
Date Posted: 23 Jan. 2019 at 5:40am
Noticed you ask about NM wheeling and then clicked your profile and see you are from TX. You near Amarillo?  


Posted By: m38mike
Date Posted: 23 Jan. 2019 at 12:36pm
Originally posted by mriceflinter mriceflinter wrote:

Mike,
 One quick question. Do you know the hours of operation for the sugar shack during the FCT?  Mike

It's usually staffed from about 6:00 am to 8:00 pm, but the pumps are on 24/7.  Can't get a candy bar at midnight, but you can still get gas. 

Willysguy, no need to fly your registration here.  You are getting it in months before it'll go through the lottery.  I do appreciate you getting it in so early.  And I'm anxious too, to see what happens this year! 

Lee, ol' buddy, pal, friend, comrade.  I'm sad to see you aren't coming this year.  Who would possibly want my next six-pack of Spam more than you?  And you bring the most wonderful right-seat riders. I hope we'll see you on the trail somewhere else this year. 


-------------
M38Mike
46 CJ2A SAMCJ2A
4?-5? CJ2A/3A/M38 Jigsaw
51 M38 Green Jeanne
52 M38 Blue Mule, 51 M100 Blue Mule Tale
52 XM38EV1 Electro-Willys, 52 M100 Juice Box


Posted By: Unkamonkey
Date Posted: 23 Jan. 2019 at 12:52pm
Originally posted by m38mike m38mike wrote:

Originally posted by mriceflinter mriceflinter wrote:


Mike,
 One quick question. Do you know the hours of operation for the sugar shack during the FCT?  Mike


It's usually staffed from about 6:00 am to 8:00 pm, but the pumps are on 24/7.  Can't get a candy bar at midnight, but you can still get gas. 


Sort of reminds me of a sporting goods store from where I grew up "Al's got worms and white gas". I feel sorry for the guy.

-------------
uncamonkey


Posted By: Lee MN
Date Posted: 23 Jan. 2019 at 3:21pm
Originally posted by m38mike m38mike wrote:


Lee, ol' buddy, pal, friend, comrade.  I'm sad to see you aren't coming this year.  Who would possibly want my next six-pack of Spam more than you?  And you bring the most wonderful right-seat riders. I hope we'll see you on the trail somewhere else this year. 



Mike, not really sure of my employment situation I’m a little hesitant to make long range plans for fall!, plus I may have another commitment at FCT time!..... Spam and stories elsewhere possibly 😉👍🏿

Lee

-------------
               LEE
44 GPW-The Perfected Willys
49 2A
“If you wait, you only get older”
67 M715
American Made Rolling History


Posted By: tamnalan
Date Posted: 24 Jan. 2019 at 1:28am
Originally posted by m38mike m38mike wrote:

<div style=": rgb248, 248, 252;">
<div style=": rgb248, 248, 252;">Most Excellent!  A subject matter expert in a field where I am a novice, but require faith in it working for me.  OK Professor, a question on results.  If I select a generator, and specify a range of 1-100, should I expect to see any duplicate numbers displayed (i.e. 27 twice) during it's generation of say 90 numbers?  <div style=": rgb248, 248, 252;">
<div style=": rgb248, 248, 252;">And since I would like to get this data into an excell spreadsheet for the guides to have in case we have an accident, perhaps I should start building my spreadsheet now.  And between now and May you can tutor me on effective ways to use excell's RMD(.) command.  Professor Alan, are you up to the challenge?


Yessir!  

Assuming you're using Excel then use RAND().   You won't get any duplicates.

Another path is to use RANDBETWEEN(a, b) but I would not use this one.  There is risk of duplicates because it's limited to coughing up integers.


-------------
Alan Johnson
1942 MB - "TBD"
1943 MB - "Lt Bob"
1950 cj3a
M-100 x2
teardrop camper: https://forums.g503.com/viewtopic.php?f=141&t=201740


Posted By: mriceflinter
Date Posted: 24 Jan. 2019 at 3:08am
Mike,
 In light of the info you gave us on the hours they are open, I see no reason why we can't fuel up the night before after the previous run. That will eliminate the problem in the morning. I for one plan on evening fueling and I hope others will do the same. Simple cure if you agree. After all, normally we will already be out at the highway.   Mike


Posted By: m38mike
Date Posted: 24 Jan. 2019 at 1:53pm
Thanks for the tips Professor Alan!  But I do want to generate integers, not decimals.  So perhaps the RANDBETWEEN (a, b) would be the command to use.  I would just need to make sure the spread is large enough to reduce the chance of duplicate numbers being issued.  It should work if the range is double the number of forms that I have.  

Lee, I heard somewhere that Grumpy might be hiring drivers so he won't have to go out in the snow and cold.  You might inquire with him.  What a great opportunity to move away from your current situation, but don't forget to bring some tree seeds with you. 

mriceflinter, that is certainly a viable option.  I'm looking more and more at just having everyone fueled up before the Driver's meeting.  Fill the night before? OK.  Fill that morning? OK.  Bring your own fuel and fill whenever?  OK.  I like the idea of taking off from TDR at 9:00 and heading straight out into the mountains.  

I might have heard a rumor about someone maybe trying to set up a copycat event at the same time as FCT for folks who don't get selected for FCT.  I might have said I'd offer help with advice and info if they wanted it.  But it would be up to them to make the event known and solicit participants.  We'll see if this bird will fly. 


-------------
M38Mike
46 CJ2A SAMCJ2A
4?-5? CJ2A/3A/M38 Jigsaw
51 M38 Green Jeanne
52 M38 Blue Mule, 51 M100 Blue Mule Tale
52 XM38EV1 Electro-Willys, 52 M100 Juice Box


Posted By: m38mike
Date Posted: 27 Jan. 2019 at 11:26pm
This week I received 8 new registration forms.  Added to the 31 previous forms gives me 39 total. 

The names for this week, in no particular order are: Ohrns, Ladwig/Domajnko, Lee, Murch, Huffaker, Ahlbrandt, Nichols, and Lannerd.   


-------------
M38Mike
46 CJ2A SAMCJ2A
4?-5? CJ2A/3A/M38 Jigsaw
51 M38 Green Jeanne
52 M38 Blue Mule, 51 M100 Blue Mule Tale
52 XM38EV1 Electro-Willys, 52 M100 Juice Box


Posted By: Willys Guy
Date Posted: 01 Feb. 2019 at 8:33pm
Made our hotel reservations today in Buena Vista. They are filling up fast. The Best Western is sold out for that week. We got onto the Supper 8, but they are limited. On another note, filling up before the run. Could you give directions on how to get to the gas station from the TDR. Last year being our first time, we just followed the crowed.

John

-------------
JC


Posted By: m38mike
Date Posted: 02 Feb. 2019 at 2:24pm
Willysguy, Here's the turn by turn directions from TDR to the Sugar Shack gas station.

Leave TDR, and turn left on Old Ranch Loop.  At the end of Old Ranch Loop, turn left on County 282.  At the end of county 282, turn left on County 270.  At the 4-way intersection turn left to remain on county 270.  At the stop sign turn right on Hwy 285.  Go 1/2 mile and Sugar Shack will be on your right.  

I will have maps available at FCT to help folks find the Sugar Shack.  It's about 4 miles and takes about 10 minutes to get there.  Getting back to TDR is simply a reverse of the directions. 


-------------
M38Mike
46 CJ2A SAMCJ2A
4?-5? CJ2A/3A/M38 Jigsaw
51 M38 Green Jeanne
52 M38 Blue Mule, 51 M100 Blue Mule Tale
52 XM38EV1 Electro-Willys, 52 M100 Juice Box


Posted By: Ol' Unreliable
Date Posted: 03 Feb. 2019 at 2:38am
It sounds funny to make four left turns and not be back where you started from.  LOL


-------------
There's a reason it's called Ol' Unreliable


Posted By: m38mike
Date Posted: 04 Feb. 2019 at 11:39am
Registrations are slowing down.  I only received 4 this past week.  That brings me up to 43 forms. 

The names are: Tarvin; Linafelter; Gibson; and King.  


-------------
M38Mike
46 CJ2A SAMCJ2A
4?-5? CJ2A/3A/M38 Jigsaw
51 M38 Green Jeanne
52 M38 Blue Mule, 51 M100 Blue Mule Tale
52 XM38EV1 Electro-Willys, 52 M100 Juice Box


Posted By: jss5724
Date Posted: 06 Feb. 2019 at 9:08pm
I just put my application on the pony.  Should be up there by Saturday.  Thanks!


Posted By: m38mike
Date Posted: 10 Feb. 2019 at 7:00pm
jss5724, Either the horse came up lame, or he stayed longer in the stall to stay out of the weather, but your registration didn't make it yet.  I'll bet I get it on Monday.

This week I got two forms, so I'm up to 45.  The two I received are from Dawson and Petrowich. 




-------------
M38Mike
46 CJ2A SAMCJ2A
4?-5? CJ2A/3A/M38 Jigsaw
51 M38 Green Jeanne
52 M38 Blue Mule, 51 M100 Blue Mule Tale
52 XM38EV1 Electro-Willys, 52 M100 Juice Box


Posted By: Mr. Vic
Date Posted: 13 Feb. 2019 at 5:37am
Hi Mike, The FCT sounds like so much fun.  I've read about it and looked at photos before I even owned a Flattie.  Last spring I finally made a 30 year dream happen and bought a '46 CJ2A.  My goal is to have it reliable and safe by the FCT.  Could you give a brief itinerary for those of us hoping to make 2019 our first FCT?  If I don't get chosen, I'd like to come and camp for a day or join in on a dinner just to see the Jeeps and talk to like minded people.  
Thanks


-------------
'46 CJ2A
'60 Willys Wagon
'61 Econoline P/U
'29 Model A


Posted By: m38mike
Date Posted: 13 Feb. 2019 at 12:01pm
Mr. Vic, I hope you do get chosen so you can spend the whole week with us cruising around in the mountains.  I'm happy to share the week's schedule with you, except that we won't have the specific rides planned out until June.  But I can share what we do know so far.  

Saturday, Sep 14, and Sunday, Sep 15, will be busy receiving folks here at Thirsty Dirt Ranch (TDR).  And there will be lots of last minute activity cleaning out the shop and getting ready for the rides, and socializing with old and new friends.  Sunday afternoon we're talking about having a class for new folks to the tours to let them know how we operate, how to drive in the mountains, things to pack for the tours, where to buy gas, and generally answering questions.  No time for that class is set yet, but it'll be in the shop.  We will probably follow that with a shake down cruise into the forest near TDR for folks to check out how their Jeep runs at this elevation, and practice some mountain driving.  

Meals throughout the week are on your own.  Lots of folks will get together with friends and go try the local restaurants, or gather at someone's camp to cook a community meal.  But lunch time all week long will be out on the trail.  

Monday we'll have a driver's meeting at 8:30 in front of the shop.  Everyone should be gassed up, and packed up, and ready to go by 8:30.  We'll talk about the day's tours, some safety stuff, some radio stuff, sell a few hats, and get folks organized for the day.  We'll depart by 9:00.  We'll return to TDR sometime in the afternoon so be sure to have a lunch with you.  The rest of the afternoon and evening will be spent socializing, repairing Jeeps, and preparing for the next day's ride.  

Tuesday thru Friday will be a repeat of Monday.  Thursday will be the exception.  That's the day we have our big pot luck feast.  So in the afternoon we'll clear out the shop to set up for the feast.  We'll also have our raffle prize give-away after the feast.  We may try to set up a black powder shoot again this year, but as always, it would be subject to any recovery operations we need to do.  That's what killed it last year, having to go recover 3 Jeeps that suffered problems along our route.  Friday is the day we do our Grand Ride along the top of Aspen Ridge.  

Saturday, Sep 21, we may do a short ride in the morning, but most folks are packing up to head home. Some folks will stick around until Sunday to help me with the clean up and close down of the facilities.  Sunday afternoon, I'll sit in a lawn chair in the shop, drink half a beer while thinking back on the week, and take a nap.  




-------------
M38Mike
46 CJ2A SAMCJ2A
4?-5? CJ2A/3A/M38 Jigsaw
51 M38 Green Jeanne
52 M38 Blue Mule, 51 M100 Blue Mule Tale
52 XM38EV1 Electro-Willys, 52 M100 Juice Box


Posted By: 64CJ5
Date Posted: 13 Feb. 2019 at 3:56pm
Pot luck evening.
The amount and verity of food at last years pot luck was amazing.  I am sure no one went away hungry.
The prizes being drawn for covered at least three tables.  I think Mike had fun being the MC.  The food,  the prizes and socializing with friends new and old made for great evening.  


-------------
64CJ5 "Eeyore"
01TJ "Tigger"
52 M38 Severely demilitarized, "Popeye" The Coast Guard Jeep.
14 JK "Jake"
To Trust Government Defys Both History and Reason.

PUBLIC LAND Owner/User


Posted By: Mr. Vic
Date Posted: 15 Feb. 2019 at 1:24am
Thank you for the reply.  It sound like a great time.  My registration is in the mail and my fingers are crossed ; )

-------------
'46 CJ2A
'60 Willys Wagon
'61 Econoline P/U
'29 Model A


Posted By: m38mike
Date Posted: 18 Feb. 2019 at 11:53am
This past week I received 4 more forms, so our count is 49.  The last names are: Williams, Stokes, Vickery, and Evans.  Nancy commented to me that there are quite a few forms from new folks to FCT.  This week 2 of the 4 forms were from new people.  I'll have to go back through the stack of forms to see how many new people are listed.  After a gulp or two of hot coffee to sharpen my eyesight, I went through all the forms and found that so far there are 13 new folks who registered to join us.  I think this may be the highest percentage of new folks we've ever had for a FCT.  26%.  This should make it a fun and entertaining year.  I'm looking forward to it.  Our circle of friends will expand, and the list of FCT alumni (?) will grow.  

-------------
M38Mike
46 CJ2A SAMCJ2A
4?-5? CJ2A/3A/M38 Jigsaw
51 M38 Green Jeanne
52 M38 Blue Mule, 51 M100 Blue Mule Tale
52 XM38EV1 Electro-Willys, 52 M100 Juice Box


Posted By: longmontgirl
Date Posted: 18 Feb. 2019 at 7:40pm
Mike,
You have always put together such an amazing FCT for everyone! We've got our registration filled out and in the mail today! I'm not on the forum as much as I ought to be, but I'm glad Russ asked about dates for this year's run last night! Excited to see how everything works out!


-------------
Emily   :)

'48 2a "Lefty" (WFB legacy)


Posted By: m38mike
Date Posted: 20 Feb. 2019 at 1:01pm
Hey Emily, thank you for those kind words.  We try to please.  I'm looking forward to seeing you and Russ and Alan again.  I still think back to the time your Dad kicked you out of Lefty as he was trying to climb the grade by the waterfall on the way to Saint Elmo.  He claimed you were too much "dead weight".  Boy didn't we give him the $h!t for that move!!!  

-------------
M38Mike
46 CJ2A SAMCJ2A
4?-5? CJ2A/3A/M38 Jigsaw
51 M38 Green Jeanne
52 M38 Blue Mule, 51 M100 Blue Mule Tale
52 XM38EV1 Electro-Willys, 52 M100 Juice Box


Posted By: longmontgirl
Date Posted: 20 Feb. 2019 at 8:13pm
Ah Mike,
I definitely remember that! What a great trip! And thanks to all my jeepin' buddies for giving dad hell about that! LOL Thank goodness Bruce W. had a co-pilot seat available! Lefty is definitely trail ready! We've been taking good care of her and taking her out as often as we are able. Love all the memories! Big smile


-------------
Emily   :)

'48 2a "Lefty" (WFB legacy)


Posted By: m38mike
Date Posted: 26 Feb. 2019 at 1:49pm
Ooops I'm slacking here.  I only got one registration form last week.  It was from Boyd/Oram.  And that was our magic number 50.  

And speaking of registration forms I thought I should include the link again.

https://www.thecj2apage.com/forums/uploads/1479/cffc_fct_2019_Registration_2018-11-29_15-09-43.pdf" rel="nofollow - https://www.thecj2apage.com/forums/uploads/1479/cffc_fct_2019_Registration_2018-11-29_15-09-43.pdf

If you have any questions about the form, or the changes we're making to FCT, I'll be glad to talk with you about them.  We're looking forward to another great year for Jeeping here at the Thirsty Dirt Ranch. 

BTW, mail the registration form to:  Mike Picard, 20123 Hideout Lane, Nathrop, CO 81236


-------------
M38Mike
46 CJ2A SAMCJ2A
4?-5? CJ2A/3A/M38 Jigsaw
51 M38 Green Jeanne
52 M38 Blue Mule, 51 M100 Blue Mule Tale
52 XM38EV1 Electro-Willys, 52 M100 Juice Box


Posted By: m38mike
Date Posted: 03 Mar. 2019 at 2:20pm
Good Sunday morning to everyone.  This past week I received 5 more registration forms, and emails about another couple on the way.  This brings us to 55 forms on hand.  The forms for this week came from: Logan/Cooke, Cary, Heffelumperdink, Witch, and C.Kate.  Now some of these are looking a little suspicious of being guilty of trying to stack the deck for a particular person.  I'm beginning to think that this certain individual may have too much time on their hands and too much mischief in their mind.  What makes me suspicious?  Well, Glynda the Good Witch circled NO when asked if this was her first time at FCT.  Somehow I'm not remembering this "Good Witch" being here before.  And I'm afraid I don't remember Ernestine Heffelumperdink either, despite her claim to have participated in the past.  Now Calamity Kate I know has been here.  From loose steering wheels to missing exhaust studs to broken clutch linkages, ol' Calamity has been around and constantly provides amusement for our guests.   I'm going to have to do some investigating into some of these forms.  I don't want any fraudulent activity to reduce the chances for some aspiring new attendee from coming.  And if I find the culprit behind all these mischievious creations, I might have to toss the culprit's form into the recycle bin as well.  We'll have to see how generous I'm feeling. 

-------------
M38Mike
46 CJ2A SAMCJ2A
4?-5? CJ2A/3A/M38 Jigsaw
51 M38 Green Jeanne
52 M38 Blue Mule, 51 M100 Blue Mule Tale
52 XM38EV1 Electro-Willys, 52 M100 Juice Box


Posted By: aboyandhisdog
Date Posted: 03 Mar. 2019 at 2:43pm
If you find the culprit, maybe he/SHE should just be sentenced to chores all week...like maybe being in charge of the coffee or something punitive like that.  Clearly a trouble-maker!


-------------
Tom
1949 CJ3A

http://www.fuelly.com/car/willys/cj3a/1949/aboyandhisdog/367873" rel="nofollow">



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