I have been tossing around an idea in my head for awhile now. I would like to host a road meet in the Natchez, MS & Ferriday/Vidalia, LA area in March 2022. March seemed to work well for my Shreveport meet in 2018 (weather-wise), so that will be my target time frame. So if you were to come to Natchez, what would there be worth looking at?
- The twin spans of US 84/425 crossing the Mississippi River. One is much older than the other.
- A very old mechanical drawbridge that carries the northbound lanes of US 425/LA 15 over the Tensas River at the Concordia/Catahoula Parish line. (so far, 2 parishes to clinch!)
- The termini of US 98, US 425, US 65, and the Natchez Trace Parkway.
- The old toll booth area on the MS side to cross the MS River bridge (now a parking loop with informational plaques).
- Possibly visit the nation's 2nd largest Indian mound?
- I'll go explore to try to find more road-related things to see.
Natchez is also loaded with antebellum homes now converted in Bed & Breakfasts, and others are open for tours, if you are looking for something else to experience while visiting. I will need to make more scouting trips to see what else there is to see or not see. But my main question is this: Who would be interested enough to come down here for this? I'm hoping by this time next year there are no more "shit lists" involving other states and quarantining...or anything else related to this virus crap. HOWEVER....if the virus continues to be a problem by the time 2022 rolls around, I may postpone this idea until 2023.
So.....who's interested? :hmmm: :popcorn:
QuoteThe termini of US 98
...which would require a very boring hour-long roundtrip drive along 84...
I'd stick to Natchez and avoid lengthy sidetrips.
One thing not on your list: the prevalence of city-owned, side-mounted signals in downtown Natchez. Side-mounted signals are a rarity in Mississippi.
Quote from: froggie on March 03, 2021, 05:35:07 PM
QuoteThe termini of US 98
...which would require a very boring hour-long roundtrip drive along 84...
I'd stick to Natchez and avoid lengthy sidetrips.
I thought the US 98 terminus was where US 84/US 425 met the US 61/US 98 concurrency end? At least that's what the signage shows:
https://www.google.com/maps/@31.5297447,-91.3872213,3a,75y,67.31h,90t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1s2FwuLxhrySV8ADRBw7sY0g!2e0!7i16384!8i8192?hl=en
Quote
One thing not on your list: the prevalence of city-owned, side-mounted signals in downtown Natchez. Side-mounted signals are a rarity in Mississippi.
I am not really a signal person. I had no idea about these. Thanks for the information.
I am definitely interested.
Count me as interested. Hopefully, I'll be both working in industry and living a little closer, which would make a trip down a bit more feasible.
Quote from: cjk374 on March 03, 2021, 06:22:46 PM
Quote from: froggie on March 03, 2021, 05:35:07 PM
QuoteThe termini of US 98
...which would require a very boring hour-long roundtrip drive along 84...
I'd stick to Natchez and avoid lengthy sidetrips.
I thought the US 98 terminus was where US 84/US 425 met the US 61/US 98 concurrency end? At least that's what the signage shows:
https://www.google.com/maps/@31.5297447,-91.3872213,3a,75y,67.31h,90t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1s2FwuLxhrySV8ADRBw7sY0g!2e0!7i16384!8i8192?hl=en
Probably a replace-in-kind contractor error from when that intersection was rebuilt. Most of the rest of the signage along US 61 to the US 84 split is "To US 98," as the endpoint was truncated back to the intersection of 98 and 84.
I am potentially interested, as well.
Dibs on hanging out with you without the meet crowd around. This is my excuse to clinch the Natchez Trace Pkwy.
Quote from: cjk374 on March 03, 2021, 06:22:46 PM
Quote from: froggie on March 03, 2021, 05:35:07 PM
QuoteThe termini of US 98
...which would require a very boring hour-long roundtrip drive along 84...
I'd stick to Natchez and avoid lengthy sidetrips.
I thought the US 98 terminus was where US 84/US 425 met the US 61/US 98 concurrency end? At least that's what the signage shows:
https://www.google.com/maps/@31.5297447,-91.3872213,3a,75y,67.31h,90t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1s2FwuLxhrySV8ADRBw7sY0g!2e0!7i16384!8i8192?hl=en
I was just out there last week, as part of an attempt to clinch US 84 (the part west of the Mississippi, including unclinched mileage in west Texas, was postponed for obvious reasons). I agree the signage in the field is ambiguous, including US 98 signage in more than one place along US 84. But the 2020 Mississippi state highway map has US 84 west of the US 98 junction near Bude marked only as US 84.
My potential interest in a Natchez meet is moderate. I visited Natchez on my way to your Jackson meet a few years ago, after clinching the Natchez Trace Parkway, but not this year (except to the northern US 61/84 junction, where I turned back east).
Sounds like fun. Count me in.
Quote from: cjk374 on March 03, 2021, 06:22:46 PM
Quote from: froggie on March 03, 2021, 05:35:07 PM
QuoteThe termini of US 98
...which would require a very boring hour-long roundtrip drive along 84...
I'd stick to Natchez and avoid lengthy sidetrips.
I thought the US 98 terminus was where US 84/US 425 met the US 61/US 98 concurrency end? At least that's what the signage shows:
https://www.google.com/maps/@31.5297447,-91.3872213,3a,75y,67.31h,90t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1s2FwuLxhrySV8ADRBw7sY0g!2e0!7i16384!8i8192?hl=en
MDOT truncated it to Bude in 1999. But, upon further review, it appears they never petitioned AASHTO for that change. One theory is that some newer US 98 signs exist west of Bude (including at the CFI at 61/84/425) because the contractor was going off AASHTO route guidance and not MDOT route guidance.
I really wish that Louisiana and Mississippi had left US 65 where it was coming into Natchez at that same intersection.
The evolution of Sgt. Prentiss & Devereux Dr from intersection into interchange.
You can see if an old concrete arch bridge along Old US 61 (Lower Woodville Rd) is still standing, north of Sibley.
And while Froggie isn't interested in driving out to Bude to see the western terminus of US 98, we might all be interested in checking out this bridge, http://bridgehunter.com/ms/franklin/ediceton/, near there.
Definitely interested, I'd gladly attend another one of your meets.
Technology is spying on me. I got this video suggested to me by YouTube this morning. It is interesting: :popcorn:
https://youtu.be/-BH6H2ZTTAY
And then this was right behind it:
https://youtu.be/LP6dKLQozCw
Yes.
I have to consider limited mainland travel as I do owe Hawaii a visit (originally July 2020 but COVID changed those plans) that will likely happen in 2022.
I have decided to set the date for this meet as March 19, 2022. It will be BYOL, and we will have lunch at the riverside park in Vidalia, LA. More updates later as time rolls along.
Quote from: cjk374 on April 26, 2021, 03:16:42 PM
I have decided to set the date for this meet as March 19, 2022. It will be BYOL, and we will have lunch at the riverside park in Vidalia, LA. More updates later as time rolls along.
Sounds good! At this point, I will say that I will definitely try to attend.
Cool! I will keep this in mind and let Steph know, I don't think this will conflict with any toy shows I have going on then
Quote from: cjk374 on April 26, 2021, 03:16:42 PM
I have decided to set the date for this meet as March 19, 2022. It will be BYOL, and we will have lunch at the riverside park in Vidalia, LA. More updates later as time rolls along.
Date is marked on my calendar. Hopefully I can make it as I've not been to this area.
I'd love to go but the date is one day before our 6th anniversary so I dunno if I can attend.
Quote from: codyg1985 on May 23, 2021, 02:08:44 PM
I'd love to go but the date is one day before our 6th anniversary so I dunno if I can attend.
Katie thinks going would be a great idea. We can turn it into a weekend getaway. Unless something comes up, I should be able to attend.
You know what? This is close enough to me I could do it, I've never been to LA or MS, and unless something changes with my work between now and then getting a day or two off to make it won't be that hard. I'll try to make it.
Due to events in New Orleans this afternoon/evening (They canceled Jazzfest for October),
Attending this meet is plausible for me now.
Hi Everyone, just touching base to see if this is still a go next year? I am definetly in and if Steph can get 2 days off work she will be along for the ride too, I also plan to get the last of the Mississippi counties I need to and possibly some Louisiana parishes just south of MS (as long as the area is recovered from Ida by then)
I'm still planning on having the meet. Been trying to scout & plan the last 6 months or so. But so far so good.
Put me down for a maybe, as I live in greater Nashville now.
Quote from: cjk374 on September 05, 2021, 06:45:32 PM
I'm still planning on having the meet. Been trying to scout & plan the last 6 months or so. But so far so good.
Sweet! Looking forward to it!
Well here we are...only 6 months away from the meet. I don't have a complete itinerary yet, but I do know that the lunch will be BYOL directly underneath the US 84/US 425 river bridges located here on Front St:
https://www.google.com/maps/@31.5625923,-91.4233998,3a,75y,170.11h,77.06t/data=!3m7!1e1!3m5!1s4vGKJ2yOvXUxbN8LvogriQ!2e0!6shttps:%2F%2Fstreetviewpixels-pa.googleapis.com%2Fv1%2Fthumbnail%3Fpanoid%3D4vGKJ2yOvXUxbN8LvogriQ%26cb_client%3Dmaps_sv.tactile.gps%26w%3D203%26h%3D100%26yaw%3D246.71585%26pitch%3D0%26thumbfov%3D100!7i16384!8i8192?hl=en
The post meet supper will be held at Roux 61 just south of town:
https://www.google.com/maps/@31.4922108,-91.3677039,3a,75y,65.79h,89.66t/data=!3m7!1e1!3m5!1sgWae33TXqsOaICbXXHDZ3A!2e0!6shttps:%2F%2Fstreetviewpixels-pa.googleapis.com%2Fv1%2Fthumbnail%3Fpanoid%3DgWae33TXqsOaICbXXHDZ3A%26cb_client%3Dmaps_sv.tactile.gps%26w%3D203%26h%3D100%26yaw%3D40.241463%26pitch%3D0%26thumbfov%3D100!7i16384!8i8192?hl=en
If the weather gets ugly for lunch I will have a back-up plan ready before March. Also, I hope you like Indian mounds. There will be a few that will be seen during the road trip.
I was thinking yesterday and today that I may need to address the virus situation around here. PLEASE do not politicize anything I present below. I am only the messenger:
Louisiana has a mask mandate in place. Basically, this means that stores & businesses have to hang up signs on their entrances saying masks are required for entry. The only enforcement I have noticed have only been at health facilities. The restaurants permit the removal of masks once seated. But honestly, there is no real "enFORCEment" of the wearing of masks...not even at Wal-Mart.
Mississippi has absolutely no mandates of any kind, and the governor has stated repeatedly that she will not be enacting any. You are free to go around as you please. If any businesses have rules about masks, they are enacting them as their own policy.
As far as I am concerned, I feel like everyone can protect themselves however they wish to. Unless you are actually under age, we are all adults. You can keep up with current CDC information, and act accordingly. I am not going to ask for a vaccination status from anyone. If you are vaccinated, great...if not, that's fine too. I won't judge.
If you feel uncomfortable about any of the above, and you choose not to attend, I completely understand. I will have no hurt feelings. But just understand that you will be coming down to an area of the country where the people may have more "relaxed" stance on the virus.
Again....don't get mad, make all of this political, and end up locking this thread.
Quote from: cjk374 on September 23, 2021, 08:26:43 PM
I was thinking yesterday and today that I may need to address the virus situation around here. PLEASE do not politicize anything I present below. I am only the messenger:
Louisiana has a mask mandate in place. Basically, this means that stores & businesses have to hang up signs on their entrances saying masks are required for entry. The only enforcement I have noticed have only been at health facilities. The restaurants permit the removal of masks once seated. But honestly, there is no real "enFORCEment" of the wearing of masks...not even at Wal-Mart.
Mississippi has absolutely no mandates of any kind, and the governor has stated repeatedly that she will not be enacting any. You are free to go around as you please. If any businesses have rules about masks, they are enacting them as their own policy.
As far as I am concerned, I feel like everyone can protect themselves however they wish to. Unless you are actually under age, we are all adults. You can keep up with current CDC information, and act accordingly. I am not going to ask for a vaccination status from anyone. If you are vaccinated, great...if not, that's fine too. I won't judge.
If you feel uncomfortable about any of the above, and you choose not to attend, I completely understand. I will have no hurt feelings. But just understand that you will be coming down to an area of the country where the people may have more "relaxed" stance on the virus.
Again....don't get mad, make all of this political, and end up locking this thread.
Thanks for sharing this, Jess. One thing to keep in mind is that we're still 6 months away from the meet. A lot can change, possibly for the better (trying to be optimistic) between now and then.
Quote from: A.J. Bertin on September 23, 2021, 09:27:35 PM
Quote from: cjk374 on September 23, 2021, 08:26:43 PM
I was thinking yesterday and today that I may need to address the virus situation around here. PLEASE do not politicize anything I present below. I am only the messenger:
Louisiana has a mask mandate in place. Basically, this means that stores & businesses have to hang up signs on their entrances saying masks are required for entry. The only enforcement I have noticed have only been at health facilities. The restaurants permit the removal of masks once seated. But honestly, there is no real "enFORCEment" of the wearing of masks...not even at Wal-Mart.
Mississippi has absolutely no mandates of any kind, and the governor has stated repeatedly that she will not be enacting any. You are free to go around as you please. If any businesses have rules about masks, they are enacting them as their own policy.
As far as I am concerned, I feel like everyone can protect themselves however they wish to. Unless you are actually under age, we are all adults. You can keep up with current CDC information, and act accordingly. I am not going to ask for a vaccination status from anyone. If you are vaccinated, great...if not, that's fine too. I won't judge.
If you feel uncomfortable about any of the above, and you choose not to attend, I completely understand. I will have no hurt feelings. But just understand that you will be coming down to an area of the country where the people may have more "relaxed" stance on the virus.
Again....don't get mad, make all of this political, and end up locking this thread.
Thanks for sharing this, Jess. One thing to keep in mind is that we're still 6 months away from the meet. A lot can change, possibly for the better (trying to be optimistic) between now and then.
Yes indeed. If things change...for better or worse...I will let everyone know.
I see others have pointed out that the meet is months distant. But the governor of Mississippi is female? When did that happen? I thought the governor was a male.Or is this a typo? Only female governor I'm aware of in the area is in Alabama.
Quote from: cjk374 on September 23, 2021, 09:47:16 PM
Mississippi has absolutely no mandates of any kind, and the governor has stated repeatedly that she will not be enacting any. You are free to go around as you please. If any businesses have rules about masks, they are enacting them as their own policy.
Quote from: hbelkins on September 24, 2021, 12:57:16 PM
I see others have pointed out that the meet is months distant. But the governor of Mississippi is female? When did that happen? I thought the governor was a male.Or is this a typo? Only female governor I'm aware of in the area is in Alabama.
Quote from: cjk374 on September 23, 2021, 09:47:16 PM
Mississippi has absolutely no mandates of any kind, and the governor has stated repeatedly that she will not be enacting any. You are free to go around as you please. If any businesses have rules about masks, they are enacting them as their own policy.
I heard the info about MS on the radio a couple of months ago. They kept referring to the governor as she & her. Upon further googling, HIS name is Tate Reeves.
I work for a railroad...I'm deaf. My bad.
Quote from: cjk374 on September 24, 2021, 02:42:19 PM
Quote from: hbelkins on September 24, 2021, 12:57:16 PM
I see others have pointed out that the meet is months distant. But the governor of Mississippi is female? When did that happen? I thought the governor was a male.Or is this a typo? Only female governor I'm aware of in the area is in Alabama.
Quote from: cjk374 on September 23, 2021, 09:47:16 PM
Mississippi has absolutely no mandates of any kind, and the governor has stated repeatedly that she will not be enacting any. You are free to go around as you please. If any businesses have rules about masks, they are enacting them as their own policy.
I heard the info about MS on the radio a couple of months ago. They kept referring to the governor as she & her. Upon further googling, HIS name is Tate Reeves.
I work for a railroad...I'm deaf. My bad.
I was wondering if perhaps the governor had been replaced in office or something and I hadn't heard about it. I saw Reeves in the news about something a couple of weeks ago and was curious if there'd been a change.
Jess announced in the 2022 meet ideas thread that March 19 is the official date of this meet. I submitted my time-off request from work for the days off I need for the drive down from Michigan and the drive back, and my request was approved so I'm pretty much planning on attending at this point. :)
I apologize for the "radio silence" I have been doing for this meet. I have been waiting for recent virus numbers to come out to see if it would be a bad idea to have the meet. Here are a couple of maps and web pages I have found:
For MS, look for Adams County: https://msdh.ms.gov/msdhsite/scripts/FullScreen.cfm?itemLink=https://app.powerbigov.us/view?r=eyJrIjoiM2JhNmFkMzUtYTg2NS00ZTA1LTk2NzYtYTk1NWFiOTQ0YWIyIiwidCI6IjU1OTA0MmRjLThiZjAtNGQ4Ni05ZmMwLWZiZjRjNzUwM2M3OSJ9&windowHeight=1041&widthPercent=135
For LA, look for Concordia Parish: https://www.mayoclinic.org/coronavirus-covid-19/map/louisiana
The northern half of Mississippi appears to be the hottest part of the state.....and so does Adams County. Louisiana's numbers don't seem as bad, but Concordia Parish is not exactly the "coldest" parish in the state. Then you have this new variant showing up just in time to piss me off. Alas, I have no control over planet Earth, so we will just have to roll with the punches.
I will say that this meet is still a go. Please reread what I posted above about the political climates for the area, as nothing has really changed. As far as mask wearing by the general public, it seems like it's 60/40 wearing masks to 50/50. I will mandate nothing specific for this meet. We can each act on our own accords. If you wanna wear a mask, please do. If you don't want to, that will be fine. I will have enough going on trying to keep the meet flowing smoothly, and I ain't gonna be policing masks vs no masks or vax vs no vax. We are all responsible adults, and I pray that we can all act as such.
Now that being said, how many of y'all still plan on attending. I see AJ has taken time off to come. How many more will there be? I have no written itinerary as of yet, but knowing all the places I have in mind to drive, it may not be that long of a tour. I still need to work out the exact route, but I know where things are.
Count me as a "likely". The main thing that could change that is a family or other scheduling conflict coming up between now and then.
The virus situation is not yet concerning to me. I travelled extensively last year, including through many southern states, long before I was fully vaccinated in April 2021 and got my booster shot in October, and came away unscathed. So it would take a lot to keep me home.
Quote from: oscar on December 04, 2021, 07:26:32 PM
Count me as a "likely". The main thing that could change that is a family or other scheduling conflict coming up between now and then.
The virus situation is not yet concerning to me. I travelled extensively last year, including through many southern states, long before I was fully vaccinated in April 2021 and got my booster shot in October, and came away unscathed. So it would take a lot to keep me home.
Wonder if the people we come in contact with did as well.
Quote from: Rothman on December 04, 2021, 08:11:57 PM
Quote from: oscar on December 04, 2021, 07:26:32 PM
The virus situation is not yet concerning to me. I travelled extensively last year, including through many southern states, long before I was fully vaccinated in April 2021 and got my booster shot in October, and came away unscathed. So it would take a lot to keep me home.
Wonder if the people we come in contact with did as well.
Speaking just for myself, really unlikely. AFAIK I've never been infected, and with my medical vulnerabilities I would've noticed if I had been. Certainly Canada was satisfied, through the PCR test I obtained just before crossing the border and my proof of full vaccination, that its people wouldn't catch the virus from me during my visit there in October.
Speculation about roadgeek travels spreading Covid-19, despite best efforts to keep that from happening, is not helpful.
Quote from: oscar on December 04, 2021, 08:48:26 PM
Quote from: Rothman on December 04, 2021, 08:11:57 PM
Quote from: oscar on December 04, 2021, 07:26:32 PM
The virus situation is not yet concerning to me. I travelled extensively last year, including through many southern states, long before I was fully vaccinated in April 2021 and got my booster shot in October, and came away unscathed. So it would take a lot to keep me home.
Wonder if the people we come in contact with did as well.
Speaking just for myself, really unlikely. AFAIK I've never been infected, and with my medical vulnerabilities I would've noticed if I had been. Certainly Canada was satisfied, through the PCR test I obtained just before crossing the border and my proof of full vaccination, that its people wouldn't catch the virus from me during my visit there in October.
Speculation about roadgeek travels spreading Covid-19, despite best efforts to keep that from happening, is not helpful.
I echo this sentiment. It's Jess's decision whether or not he wants to go through with hosting the meet, and it's up to individuals to choose for themselves whether or not they want to attend. My experience is similar to Oscar's; I safely did a lot of travel in 2020 (including attending multiple road meets) prior to having access to the vaccine and don't believe I ever contracted the virus. Of course, I'll never know for sure because many people with the virus can be asymptomatic, but still. Everyone has their individual level of risk tolerance, and for me, I choose to continue to live my life as I see fit and travel as safely as possible. I got vaccinated in early 2021, got my booster shot a few weeks ago, and continue to wear a mask in public (except when I'm dining out - which I won't do if the restaurant is crowded).
If Jess still hosts the meet and folks are not comfortable with the idea of attending, no one is forcing them to do so.
At this point I have every intent of attending. It lines up nicely with a family event the next weekend in the South.
Cannot commit yet. I'm weighing my Hawaii plans - which must be executed this year.
I previously was really hoping to attend this, but at this point, it comes down to how long the baseball lockout continues. My parents really want me to visit Truist Park with them in May.
I still have a shot at attending, but it is going to depend on my wife's work schedule.
I foresee no reason I shouldn't be there.
Quote from: A.J. Bertin on December 04, 2021, 09:54:17 PM... don't believe I ever contracted the virus. Of course, I'll never know for sure because many people with the virus can be asymptomatic, but still.
The next time you have any routine blood testing done, ask for an antibody test. I was offered one something like a year ago, but declined. The second time I was offered one, I accepted, and found out that I did not have the antibodies. Since the mRNA vaccines aren't traditional live or killed virus shots, your vaccination status should not affect the antibody test. If you test positive for antibodies, that means you actually had it whether you knew it or not.
Quote from: hbelkins on December 05, 2021, 07:38:41 PM
Quote from: A.J. Bertin on December 04, 2021, 09:54:17 PM... don't believe I ever contracted the virus. Of course, I'll never know for sure because many people with the virus can be asymptomatic, but still.
The next time you have any routine blood testing done, ask for an antibody test. I was offered one something like a year ago, but declined. The second time I was offered one, I accepted, and found out that I did not have the antibodies. Since the mRNA vaccines aren't traditional live or killed virus shots, your vaccination status should not affect the antibody test. If you test positive for antibodies, that means you actually had it whether you knew it or not.
Thanks for the suggestion!
I'm still in, barring any sort of financial crisis that would make such a trip politically untenable at home.
I'm not particularly concerned about covid myself, having lived through the real deal and since being thrice vaccinated.
I have intentions on attending. I have not submitted my time off request at work, but with sufficient advance notice it will be approved. I have been currently weighing my options on flying to Nashville or New Orleans (or a combination of the two - into one and out of the other) and going from there vs. driving down and back (and working out prospective itineraries for both). I'm not super worried about COVID as I have been vaccinated and plan to get a booster in January.
So far so good for me, I don't have any toy shows planned that weekend but there is a convention planned in Charlotte, NC the next weekend that flew past my radar, I submitted my form and payment but I have a feeling it is going to fall through, if it does then I am 100% go and probably do some county clinching too with this.
Quote from: 74/171FAN on December 05, 2021, 08:39:17 AM
I previously was really hoping to attend this, but at this point, it comes down to how long the baseball lockout continues. My parents really want me to visit Truist Park with them in May.
Actually I am now hoping to attend this again. I have a week from work that I need to take off in March.
Quote from: Brandon on December 05, 2021, 02:55:33 PM
I foresee no reason I shouldn't be there.
Speaking of which, my time off is done, and I will be there.
Quote from: Brandon on January 19, 2022, 07:35:23 PM
Quote from: Brandon on December 05, 2021, 02:55:33 PM
I foresee no reason I shouldn't be there.
Speaking of which, my time off is done, and I will be there.
Speaking of I put my time off request in too for the Friday and Monday, should be good, just me going Steph has to work
Being too close to when I will be going to Hawaii (two weeks later), I will have to see myself out.
Have fun.
I didn't realize a co-worker had already taken that week off, and I'm the only other one who can do it. Unfortunately I'm out.
Add me to the list of people who have their time off request approved. The first and biggest hurdle is straddled. The remaining logistics should fall into place nicely.
I am unfortunately out. Way too much going on around that time with grad school. I hope to get down there to catch up with everyone soon, though.
Good morning y'all! It has been pointed out to me that I have failed to post the start times for the meet. The BYOL lunch will be at the Vidalia Riverfront park at 11 a.m., and we will depart from there at noon. I drove the route I have planned, and it seems that the tour could last about 3 hours. But I found out I omitted something I shouldn't have and will readjust the route soon. The tour itinerary will be handed out at lunch.
I apologize for the inconvenience this lack of info may have caused. Life has been super busy here.
I will be in attendance.
Jess - do you have any recommendations of good places in Natchez for takeout (besides the usual fast-food chains) that are open for lunch before 11? If we should plan on gathering at the park at 11, everyone will need to have picked up their lunches prior to 11. Are there are any good local/regional fast-food chains that would be good for this, for instance?
I am 85% sure my request off is good for this , I plan to stay in McComb, MS the whole weekend and plan to clinch the last of the Mississippi counties I need to finish the state and grab some Louisiana parishes on Sunday then drive back to middle TN on Monday, just me unfortunetly Steph will not be along since she has to work.
Quote from: A.J. Bertin on February 20, 2022, 05:09:04 PM
Jess - do you have any recommendations of good places in Natchez for takeout (besides the usual fast-food chains) that are open for lunch before 11? If we should plan on gathering at the park at 11, everyone will need to have picked up their lunches prior to 11. Are there are any good local/regional fast-food chains that would be good for this, for instance?
Sadly I don't know much about the local eateries in the area. I wish I could be more useful there.
Quote from: cjk374 on February 23, 2022, 08:03:35 PM
Quote from: A.J. Bertin on February 20, 2022, 05:09:04 PM
Jess - do you have any recommendations of good places in Natchez for takeout (besides the usual fast-food chains) that are open for lunch before 11? If we should plan on gathering at the park at 11, everyone will need to have picked up their lunches prior to 11. Are there are any good local/regional fast-food chains that would be good for this, for instance?
Sadly I don't know much about the local eateries in the area. I wish I could be more useful there.
No problem. I don't know how many places offer takeout lunches before 11, but would you consider pushing back the start time to 11:30 to give folks time to get lunches and bring them to the park if those places don't start serving lunch until 11? Just a suggestion.
Driving through Natchez last week, I did see a restaurant called Roux 61. Located on US 61, about 5 miles south of the US 61/84/425 junction
Quote from: A.J. Bertin on February 23, 2022, 08:39:38 PM
Quote from: cjk374 on February 23, 2022, 08:03:35 PM
Quote from: A.J. Bertin on February 20, 2022, 05:09:04 PM
Jess - do you have any recommendations of good places in Natchez for takeout (besides the usual fast-food chains) that are open for lunch before 11? If we should plan on gathering at the park at 11, everyone will need to have picked up their lunches prior to 11. Are there are any good local/regional fast-food chains that would be good for this, for instance?
Sadly I don't know much about the local eateries in the area. I wish I could be more useful there.
No problem. I don't know how many places offer takeout lunches before 11, but would you consider pushing back the start time to 11:30 to give folks time to get lunches and bring them to the park if those places don't start serving lunch until 11? Just a suggestion.
Seconded. A meet tour less than 4 hours can easily start at 1 PM and you're fine, so no need to rush the start. We used to always meet at 12!
Quote from: Hot Rod Hootenanny on February 23, 2022, 08:51:08 PM
Driving through Natchez last week, I did see a restaurant called Roux 61. Located on US 61, about 5 miles south of the US 61/84/425 junction
That's the place Jess selected for the post-meet supper/dinner. Looks like a good place for that, though I hope we can avoid loud music and dim lighting (I like to hear what others are saying, and see what I'm eating).
I'm still a "likely" at this point, though there's still some potential hang-ups (a summons for jury duty early that week, and I might need to help my sister move if the builder is done with her new home).
Quote from: Hot Rod Hootenanny on February 23, 2022, 08:51:08 PM
Driving through Natchez last week, I did see a restaurant called Roux 61. Located on US 61, about 5 miles south of the US 61/84/425 junction
This is the location of post meet supper. It was delicious when I ate there.
Quote from: Alps on February 23, 2022, 10:56:39 PM
Quote from: A.J. Bertin on February 23, 2022, 08:39:38 PM
Quote from: cjk374 on February 23, 2022, 08:03:35 PM
Quote from: A.J. Bertin on February 20, 2022, 05:09:04 PM
Jess - do you have any recommendations of good places in Natchez for takeout (besides the usual fast-food chains) that are open for lunch before 11? If we should plan on gathering at the park at 11, everyone will need to have picked up their lunches prior to 11. Are there are any good local/regional fast-food chains that would be good for this, for instance?
Sadly I don't know much about the local eateries in the area. I wish I could be more useful there.
No problem. I don't know how many places offer takeout lunches before 11, but would you consider pushing back the start time to 11:30 to give folks time to get lunches and bring them to the park if those places don't start serving lunch until 11? Just a suggestion.
Seconded. A meet tour less than 4 hours can easily start at 1 PM and you're fine, so no need to rush the start. We used to always meet at 12!
I forgot I had stated 11 as the start time. No one will think it's rude if I change it to noon?
Quote from: cjk374 on February 25, 2022, 07:17:24 AM
I forgot I had stated 11 as the start time. No one will think it's rude if I change it to noon?
I can't imagine that anyone would find that to be rude. :)
Quote from: cjk374 on February 25, 2022, 07:17:24 AM
Quote from: Hot Rod Hootenanny on February 23, 2022, 08:51:08 PM
Driving through Natchez last week, I did see a restaurant called Roux 61. Located on US 61, about 5 miles south of the US 61/84/425 junction
This is the location of post meet supper. It was delicious when I ate there.
Quote from: Alps on February 23, 2022, 10:56:39 PM
Quote from: A.J. Bertin on February 23, 2022, 08:39:38 PM
Quote from: cjk374 on February 23, 2022, 08:03:35 PM
Quote from: A.J. Bertin on February 20, 2022, 05:09:04 PM
Jess - do you have any recommendations of good places in Natchez for takeout (besides the usual fast-food chains) that are open for lunch before 11? If we should plan on gathering at the park at 11, everyone will need to have picked up their lunches prior to 11. Are there are any good local/regional fast-food chains that would be good for this, for instance?
Sadly I don't know much about the local eateries in the area. I wish I could be more useful there.
No problem. I don't know how many places offer takeout lunches before 11, but would you consider pushing back the start time to 11:30 to give folks time to get lunches and bring them to the park if those places don't start serving lunch until 11? Just a suggestion.
Seconded. A meet tour less than 4 hours can easily start at 1 PM and you're fine, so no need to rush the start. We used to always meet at 12!
I forgot I had stated 11 as the start time. No one will think it's rude if I change it to noon?
I would love that because I have a long drive that morning.
It would certainly help me since I'll be driving from the Jackson, MS area that morning.
********** O F F I C I A L N O T I C E **********
The time of the meet up for lunch at the park will be 12 noon instead of 11 a.m.
Quote from: cjk374 on February 26, 2022, 07:59:30 AM
********** O F F I C I A L N O T I C E **********
The time of the meet up for lunch at the park will be 12 noon instead of 11 a.m.
********** O F F I C I A L N O T I C E **********
Jess is awesome
Cool works out, and now it's a done deal I will be there, probably the only meet I am going to get to this year. Staying in McComb for the whole weekend andplan to finish up the last of the MS counties I need and get some LA Parishes. Looking forward to it and seeing everyone!
Quote from: jpi on March 03, 2022, 02:47:12 PM
Cool works out, and now it's a done deal I will be there, probably the only meet I am going to get to this year. Staying in McComb for the whole weekend andplan to finish up the last of the MS counties I need and get some LA Parishes. Looking forward to it and seeing everyone!
Not even Cumberland MD? :(
Quote from: Alps on March 03, 2022, 10:58:17 PM
Quote from: jpi on March 03, 2022, 02:47:12 PM
Cool works out, and now it's a done deal I will be there, probably the only meet I am going to get to this year. Staying in McComb for the whole weekend andplan to finish up the last of the MS counties I need and get some LA Parishes. Looking forward to it and seeing everyone!
Not even Cumberland MD? :(
I was going to say Shrewsbury....
Update: I was told by one neurosurgeon today I should be clear to fly the plane in 13 days. Getting one more to weigh in but I've already booked the flight and car so hoping I get the same answer.
I was very interested in this meet when it was first proposed. Unfortunately, it is highly doubtful that I will be able to attend.
Quote from: Alps on March 05, 2022, 01:08:33 PM
Update: I was told by one neurosurgeon today I should be clear to fly the plane in 13 days. Getting one more to weigh in but I've already booked the flight and car so hoping I get the same answer.
If you're actually flying the plane, I'll pass on that flight. :-| :angry:
Quote from: 74/171FAN on March 04, 2022, 05:52:50 AM
Quote from: Alps on March 03, 2022, 10:58:17 PM
Quote from: jpi on March 03, 2022, 02:47:12 PM
Cool works out, and now it's a done deal I will be there, probably the only meet I am going to get to this year. Staying in McComb for the whole weekend andplan to finish up the last of the MS counties I need and get some LA Parishes. Looking forward to it and seeing everyone!
Not even Cumberland MD? :(
I was going to say Shrewsbury....
Ok, aside from my own meet I mean ;-) Not sure when Cumberland, MD is keep in mind my other hobby in some cases acts as a second income so if that comes up on a weekend of a road meet, the other hobby is high priority
Quote from: jpi on March 06, 2022, 09:40:10 AM
Quote from: 74/171FAN on March 04, 2022, 05:52:50 AM
Quote from: Alps on March 03, 2022, 10:58:17 PM
Quote from: jpi on March 03, 2022, 02:47:12 PM
Cool works out, and now it's a done deal I will be there, probably the only meet I am going to get to this year. Staying in McComb for the whole weekend andplan to finish up the last of the MS counties I need and get some LA Parishes. Looking forward to it and seeing everyone!
Not even Cumberland MD? :(
I was going to say Shrewsbury....
Ok, aside from my own meet I mean ;-) Not sure when Cumberland, MD is keep in mind my other hobby in some cases acts as a second income so if that comes up on a weekend of a road meet, the other hobby is high priority
What's the other hobby?
Quote from: jpi on March 06, 2022, 09:40:10 AM
Quote from: 74/171FAN on March 04, 2022, 05:52:50 AM
Quote from: Alps on March 03, 2022, 10:58:17 PM
Quote from: jpi on March 03, 2022, 02:47:12 PM
Cool works out, and now it's a done deal I will be there, probably the only meet I am going to get to this year. Staying in McComb for the whole weekend andplan to finish up the last of the MS counties I need and get some LA Parishes. Looking forward to it and seeing everyone!
Not even Cumberland MD? :(
I was going to say Shrewsbury....
Ok, aside from my own meet I mean ;-) Not sure when Cumberland, MD is keep in mind my other hobby in some cases acts as a second income so if that comes up on a weekend of a road meet, the other hobby is high priority
When it makes money, it's not a hobby, it's a job ;) :bigass:
Quote from: Rothman on March 06, 2022, 11:24:18 AM
Quote from: jpi on March 06, 2022, 09:40:10 AM
Quote from: 74/171FAN on March 04, 2022, 05:52:50 AM
Quote from: Alps on March 03, 2022, 10:58:17 PM
Quote from: jpi on March 03, 2022, 02:47:12 PM
Cool works out, and now it's a done deal I will be there, probably the only meet I am going to get to this year. Staying in McComb for the whole weekend andplan to finish up the last of the MS counties I need and get some LA Parishes. Looking forward to it and seeing everyone!
Not even Cumberland MD? :(
I was going to say Shrewsbury....
Ok, aside from my own meet I mean ;-) Not sure when Cumberland, MD is keep in mind my other hobby in some cases acts as a second income so if that comes up on a weekend of a road meet, the other hobby is high priority
What's the other hobby?
Collecting/selling miniature cars -- Matchbox, Hot Wheels, etc. I'm not sure what all brands JPI deals in, but I know of those two.
Quote from: hbelkins on March 06, 2022, 07:22:47 PM
Quote from: Rothman on March 06, 2022, 11:24:18 AM
Quote from: jpi on March 06, 2022, 09:40:10 AM
Quote from: 74/171FAN on March 04, 2022, 05:52:50 AM
Quote from: Alps on March 03, 2022, 10:58:17 PM
Quote from: jpi on March 03, 2022, 02:47:12 PM
Cool works out, and now it's a done deal I will be there, probably the only meet I am going to get to this year. Staying in McComb for the whole weekend andplan to finish up the last of the MS counties I need and get some LA Parishes. Looking forward to it and seeing everyone!
Not even Cumberland MD? :(
I was going to say Shrewsbury....
Ok, aside from my own meet I mean ;-) Not sure when Cumberland, MD is keep in mind my other hobby in some cases acts as a second income so if that comes up on a weekend of a road meet, the other hobby is high priority
What's the other hobby?
Collecting/selling miniature cars -- Matchbox, Hot Wheels, etc. I'm not sure what all brands JPI deals in, but I know of those two.
I'll wait to hear from him, then.
Quote from: jpi on March 06, 2022, 09:40:10 AM
Not sure when Cumberland, MD is
Laura said she's planning on hosting the Cumberland meet on Columbus Day weekend, which would be October 8-9.
Not sure if it matters or not since we're doing an outdoor lunch, but I have a friend from outside the forum who's curious about the hobby who is likely to attend as well.
Yes, my other hobby is JPI diecast toys, 1/64th scale diecast cars of all kinds, I have a show this weekend in St Louis and is the last of 6 shows in a row the past 6 weekends, this Natchez trip will be a nice way to "relax" and take a break from JPI diecast toys
Quote from: jpi on March 08, 2022, 08:08:56 AM
Yes, my other hobby is JPI diecast toys, 1/64th scale diecast cars of all kinds, I have a show this weekend in St Louis and is the last of 6 shows in a row the past 6 weekends, this Natchez trip will be a nice way to "relax" and take a break from JPI diecast toys
Gotcha. Thanks.
8 days til the meet. I just remembered that I need to warn y'all about the possibility of pollen happening. Today while going down my railroad track with a train, the pollen pods on the pine trees are starting to come out. The weather forecast for next Saturday is calling for sunny and warm. If you have allergies, bring your meds. You might need them.
Quote from: cjk374 on March 11, 2022, 10:27:37 PM
8 days til the meet. I just remembered that I need to warn y'all about the possibility of pollen happening. Today while going down my railroad track with a train, the pollen pods on the pine trees are starting to come out. The weather forecast for next Saturday is calling for sunny and warm. If you have allergies, bring your meds. You might need them.
My attendance is coming down to "is my cranium physically able to fly on 3/18 and physically able to drive multiple hours on 3/19". HOPING those are yeses.
Quote from: cjk374 on March 11, 2022, 10:27:37 PM
8 days til the meet. I just remembered that I need to warn y'all about the possibility of pollen happening. Today while going down my railroad track with a train, the pollen pods on the pine trees are starting to come out. The weather forecast for next Saturday is calling for sunny and warm. If you have allergies, bring your meds. You might need them.
Thank you for mentioning that.
Quote from: 74/171FAN on March 12, 2022, 06:57:47 PM
Quote from: cjk374 on March 11, 2022, 10:27:37 PM
8 days til the meet. I just remembered that I need to warn y'all about the possibility of pollen happening. Today while going down my railroad track with a train, the pollen pods on the pine trees are starting to come out. The weather forecast for next Saturday is calling for sunny and warm. If you have allergies, bring your meds. You might need them.
Thank you for mentioning that.
Indeed, had yellow crap all over my front walkway that was made more obvious by the rain earlier this week.
And I'm not gonna make this one, or really most meets these days. This is dance competition season for my girls, so I have to go watch them most weekends. I don't think I'll really be able to make it to any meet until my oldest gets her license, so maybe 5 years. That's basically when my wife says we both get our lives back!
I'm in. My sister's move to her new place is mostly complete. And today, after I and a few dozen other people reported this morning to the courthouse for jury duty, we soon found out that all the trials scheduled for today were either canceled (plea bargains or settlements) or postponed. So we all were sent home, but still pocketed the standard $30 daily jury fee, and got let off the hook for jury duty the next three years, even though none of us set foot in a courtroom.
I plan to take three days to drive to Natchez, then tack on some additional post-meet travels.
The National Weather Service is predicting minor flooding along the Mississippi River, cresting in Natchez about a foot and a half above flood stage. The weather forecast is otherwise good so far, mostly sunny with temps getting into the high 60s.
Quote from: oscar on March 14, 2022, 04:14:05 PM
The National Weather Service is predicting minor flooding along the Mississippi River, cresting in Natchez about a foot and a half above flood stage. The weather forecast is otherwise good so far, mostly sunny with temps getting into the high 60s.
Will this affect the meet-up site, since it's immediately adjacent to the river?
I hope not. I will take a look around and see either Friday or early Saturday morning. If we need to meet elsewhere, I will post here...& only here. Stay tuned.
Quote from: cjk374 on March 14, 2022, 09:43:00 PM
I hope not. I will take a look around and see either Friday or early Saturday morning. If we need to meet elsewhere, I will post here...& only here. Stay tuned.
Considering I'll be driving that whole morning to get there, I would strongly suggest you keep to the meeting spot or move it somewhere a couple feet higher now?
Jess, I just took a quick look at the Google Maps Street View link you posted above for what appears to be the park in Vidalia where we'll be having lunch. It seems to be on high ground, at more or less the same elevation as Vidalia's convention center, two hotels, and a hospital. I doubt the Weather Service would call any river rise high enough to affect those places "minor flooding". But you might take your own look, in case I'm missing something.
Quote from: Scott5114 on March 14, 2022, 09:40:41 PM
Quote from: oscar on March 14, 2022, 04:14:05 PM
The National Weather Service is predicting minor flooding along the Mississippi River, cresting in Natchez about a foot and a half above flood stage. The weather forecast is otherwise good so far, mostly sunny with temps getting into the high 60s.
Will this affect the meet-up site, since it's immediately adjacent to the river?
Only if there is anything inside the levee. Otherwise, water has to get pretty damn high to close anything along the Mississippi.
Quote from: Hot Rod Hootenanny on March 16, 2022, 01:04:21 AM
Quote from: Scott5114 on March 14, 2022, 09:40:41 PM
Quote from: oscar on March 14, 2022, 04:14:05 PM
The National Weather Service is predicting minor flooding along the Mississippi River, cresting in Natchez about a foot and a half above flood stage. The weather forecast is otherwise good so far, mostly sunny with temps getting into the high 60s.
Will this affect the meet-up site, since it's immediately adjacent to the river?
Only if there is anything inside the levee. Otherwise, water has to get pretty damn high to close anything along the Mississippi.
All of the park, hotel, & convention center are inside the levee.
Quote from: cjk374 on March 16, 2022, 05:35:34 AM
Quote from: Hot Rod Hootenanny on March 16, 2022, 01:04:21 AM
Quote from: Scott5114 on March 14, 2022, 09:40:41 PM
Quote from: oscar on March 14, 2022, 04:14:05 PM
The National Weather Service is predicting minor flooding along the Mississippi River, cresting in Natchez about a foot and a half above flood stage. The weather forecast is otherwise good so far, mostly sunny with temps getting into the high 60s.
Will this affect the meet-up site, since it's immediately adjacent to the river?
Only if there is anything inside the levee. Otherwise, water has to get pretty damn high to close anything along the Mississippi.
All of the park, hotel, & convention center are inside the levee.
Is there some confusion here about "inside the levee"? My guess is HRH meant "between the levee and the river", so the levee would provide zero protection against flooding.
There's a hospital right across the street from the park. States just don't allow construction of hospitals on the river side of a levee, since any flooding could endanger patients. Hotels and convention centers presumably don't get built in such areas, for similar reasons.
I guess someone would have to drag Froggie over to this thread to make sense of this
https://water.weather.gov/ahps2/hydrograph.php?wfo=jan&gage=ntzm6&hydro_type=2
(https://water.weather.gov/resources/hydrographs/ntzm6_record.png)
I am here at the Clarion Suites on the LA side of the river as I type this, and the water would need to get much higher for the flooding to even be an issue.
If this is the peak, then we should be fine.
I'm here too....under the bridges. My definition of "flood stage" is WAAAAY different from NWS.
You still here 74/171 fan?
For now, I am planning to do a few MS State Routes in a little while and get something to eat before calling it a day.
Tomorrow I plan to go to Vicksburg once the severe weather seems to have passed.
Definitely watch the weather. Supposed to be severe storms after midnight at my house. Hopefully will be thru Vicksburg by daylight.
Quote from: cjk374 on March 17, 2022, 01:20:24 PM
Definitely watch the weather. Supposed to be severe storms after midnight at my house. Hopefully will be thru Vicksburg by daylight.
This meet is on Saturday? Severe storms will be long gone by then, and in fact will probably be through by noon tomorrow looking at SPC forecast maps.
I am at my lodge. If anyone wants to hang out, lemme know. We can sit on the dock of the lake or whatever.
I am now at my "home base" of McComb, MS for the weekend, will be heading out in the morning to meet up with you all
Y'all have a safe trip gettin here tomorrow.
Made it to Birmingham on the late flight. See y'all tomorrey.
Quote from: Hot Rod Hootenanny on March 16, 2022, 11:43:04 PM
I guess someone would have to drag Froggie over to this thread to make sense of this
Scroll down. (https://water.weather.gov/ahps2/hydrograph.php?wfo=jan&gage=ntzm6) Lists some local impacts by gauge height. For example, at the currently depicted river height, Thornburg Lake Rd, Lake Mary Rd, and Carthage Point Rd are all underwater.
A big thank you to Jess (cjk374) for hosting another awesome meet. I think it's safe to say that everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves today. I know I certainly did.
Quote from: signalman on March 19, 2022, 09:36:05 PM
A big thank you to Jess (cjk374) for hosting another awesome meet. I think it's safe to say that everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves today. I know I certainly did.
I echo this. Jess did an awesome job with this meet today. It was a lot of fun, and I'm so glad I was able to be there!
Thank y'all for the kind words AJ & Signalman.
It was a fun time had by all. We had 10 participants that followed me into Concordia & Catahoula Parishes & Adams and Jefferson counties in Mississippi. We saw lots of Indian mounds, old historic houses, and a couple of old bridges. Perfect weather & a delicious meal (at one table....and everyone got their food this time) rounded out the day.
I hope to see y'all again in the near future.
Just made it back to Norman. We had a blast! Thanks for hosting, Jess.
Quote from: Scott5114 on March 20, 2022, 11:49:50 PM
Just made it back to Norman. We had a blast! Thanks for hosting, Jess.
Glad y'all made it home Scott!
Made it back to Joliet a bit over an hour ago.
Thanks for hosting the meet Jess. I had a pretty good time.
Quote from: Brandon on March 21, 2022, 12:49:59 AM
Made it back to Joliet a bit over an hour ago.
Thanks for hosting the meet Jess. I had a pretty good time.
Good deal! Glad you had a good trip!
We made it back to the Huntsville area about an hour ago. Thanks Jess for an awesome meet, and too bad I had to duck out early. The wife needed a place to get ready for the dinner we had.
Quote from: codyg1985 on March 21, 2022, 05:43:21 PM
We made it back to the Huntsville area about an hour ago. Thanks Jess for an awesome meet, and too bad I had to duck out early. The wife needed a place to get ready for the dinner we had.
Trust me brother I totally understand! It was good to see you again. Glad you had a good time.
I'm finally out of Natchez but still on the eponymous road. Up in Elvisville. Glorious meet it was.
I got back yesterday evening no problems after spending Sunday clinching Mississippi counties and Louisiana parishes, thanks Jess as always for putting on a fun road meet! :-)
I'm nowhere near back home. After some more Mississippi county-snagging, and a visit I mentioned at the post-meet dinner to the Lynyrd Skynyrd monument in SW Mississippi, I'm now in Hammond LA waiting out some storms blowing through. Next planned move is to head out to Texas via the southern layer of parishes I need to finish off my "round 2" in Louisiana, before working my way slowly home.
Speaking of the dinner, I was tempted to buy a Roux 61 T-shirt, with an orange US 61 marker (not nearly an authentic design, but what the heck). Only the restaurant doesn't stock anything larger than XL. One might expect a restaurant to stock larger sizes, expecting that loyal customers would eat a lot of their fine food, put on a few pounds, and need to up-size their apparel.
Here are two meet group photos I took. The first is at the visitor center in Natchez, near an old toll booth (damaged by a driver who had a stroke) for the original Mississippi River bridge now carrying US 84/425's westbound lanes. The second is at a riverside park on the Louisiana side, under the twin US84/425 bridges.
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.alaskaroads.com%2FNatchez-meet-group-at-visitor-center-DSC_4982.jpg&hash=9a5ca26c455a58465336e146e1399ebcaffb94f5)
^ From left to right: A.J., Mark, Brandon, Jason (with Send Help sign), Bill (behind Jason), Steve, Scott, meet host Jess, Scott's friend Elizabeth, and Oscar.
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.alaskaroads.com%2FNatchez-meet-group-under-US84-bridges-DSC_4984.jpg&hash=1842f7bb56ec03602f6792d242a3647176ecfcd9)
^ From left to right (original bridge on the left, with a long barge behind us heading upriver): Elizabeth, Steve, Brandon, A.J., Mark, Jess, Bill, Jason, and Scott. (Not me -- my camera's shutter went off while I was walking back to get into the photo, which I didn't find out until it was too late for a do-over. I thought I'd set the camera's timer to 20 seconds, but I hadn't moved that setting from my old camera to its replacement.)
P.S. The storm system that blew through Hammond also spawned some tornadoes elsewhere in the New Orleans metro area. They missed me by a wide margin.
Quote from: Alps on March 21, 2022, 09:55:49 PM
I'm finally out of Natchez but still on the eponymous road. Up in Elvisville. Glorious meet it was.
Thank you for the kind words Alps. Be careful on the road.
Quote from: jpi on March 22, 2022, 10:16:04 AM
I got back yesterday evening no problems after spending Sunday clinching Mississippi counties and Louisiana parishes, thanks Jess as always for putting on a fun road meet! :-)
I'm glad you had a good time & got more counties and parishes.
I have been absent the last few days due to many hours driving, but I am finally safe and sound at my parents' house south of Richmond, VA. (Basically, I followed MS 33/LA 19 back to Baton Rouge, followed I-10/I-12 to US 301, and followed US 301 to NC before snagging NC 4 and taking NC/SR 903 to South Hill, VA, before heading here via I-85.)
I did quite a few loops to get the I-110s in Biloxi and Pensacola and was impressed by all of the water crossings (and that the FL 281 bridge now takes EZPASS). Also due to hotel issues related to a rebranding, I also got myself more time to tour US 70 around Selma-Smithfield before I-42 takes over.
I just returned to the Garden State a few hours ago. It was a great trip and look forward to revisiting Natchez at some point in the future. Now for the crummy parts of traveling...unpacking and laundry and attending to a week and a half's worth of unread mail :ded:
Quote from: signalman on March 23, 2022, 03:51:40 PM
I just returned to the Garden State a few hours ago. It was a great trip and look forward to revisiting Natchez at some point in the future. Now for the crummy parts of traveling...unpacking and laundry and attending to a week and a half's worth of unread mail :ded:
Glad to hear you made it home sir! If you come back this way, lemme know.
Quote from: 74/171FAN on March 23, 2022, 09:11:42 AM
I have been absent the last few days due to many hours driving, but I am finally safe and sound at my parents' house south of Richmond, VA. (Basically, I followed MS 33/LA 19 back to Baton Rouge, followed I-10/I-12 to US 301, and followed US 301 to NC before snagging NC 4 and taking NC/SR 903 to South Hill, VA, before heading here via I-85.)
I did quite a few loops to get the I-110s in Biloxi and Pensacola and was impressed by all of the water crossings (and that the FL 281 bridge now takes EZPASS). Also due to hotel issues related to a rebranding, I also got myself more time to tour US 70 around Selma-Smithfield before I-42 takes over.
It was good to meet you at the meet, and glad you got to see lots of sights before making it home.
Just got back home. As noted above, I came back from the meet the long way, via Texas.
I came back pooped, from both the final days of the trip and also the medical procedures I had to endure once I got back (including an MRI exam at 5:30am, for which I had to stay overnight in a recovery bed, to make sure I was available when a time slot for the machine opened up).
As with other meet attendees, much of my itinerary to and from the meet was county-collecting. On the way out to Natchez, I re-completed Alabama for my "round 2" count, then some more counties in central Mississippi and NE Louisiana. On the way out of Natchez, I finished off "round 2" in Mississippi, then the southern layer of parishes in Louisiana to re-complete that state. In Texas, I finished off US 57, and re-clinched I-35 and I-169 (weird that all of the latter's Interstate route markers were on frontage roads, with at-grade road and rail crossings, rather than the Interstate-grade TX 550 Toll), Then I re-completed its counties for "round 2" (it helped that I had about 90% of its 254 counties covered pre-meet, but the other 10% were widely scattered across the state). I didn't have time to finish off Arkansas, but did cover the northern layer of counties, and a small cluster west of Little Rock. Then I re-completed Tennessee with its northern layer of counties, including out-of-the-way Lake and Houston counties, before limping home on April 6.