Event proposals

[BUIZILLA]

Good day everyone >>

Over the last 2-3 years there has been a decline in the events within the Donzi community. Some events have even combined other Aronow heritage hulls for additional participation. The DMRS has co-sponsored and/or supported all the events that it was welcomed to. We would like to see better participation at existing events, and perhaps a few new ones. To that end, we would like to use this topic and forum to banter idea's back and forth on how to better expand and cement the future gatherings.

We are sincerely interested in opinions. We don't want to use this medium as previous event bashing, but respectful suggestions should be aired out. Let's hear the good and bad.

We would like to see territory derived groups, with perhaps one or more go-to members to coordinate their area's,

ie; the SEADOGS needs a new leader and calender of events, so whom among us wants that rein? How about an OH-MI-IN-IL-MN leader? how about a Midwest OK-KS-CO-MO leader? how about a TX-OK-KS-CO leader? How about a Northeast leader? how about a mid country KY-TN-GA-AL-SC-NC? how about a Mid-Atlantic leader?

see where we're going with this?

with that said, lets open up this topic for suggestions and concrete plans.

the attached poll is MULTIPLE CHOICE

How 'bout it ?

[boldts]

As a past President of the Midwest Donzi Club and gathering, first let me thank-you Jim for putting a poll together to questionand get opinions from the boat owners.

Here are just a few items I delt with back in 2001 when we started theAwakening of the Horses gathering at Lake Cumberland in KY.

1. Do we have a location on the lake to house everyone attending and the facilities to accommodate them and their boats.
2. Date to hold the gathering so as to not interfere with already established gatherings. With-in the date issue of course is the cost factor. If you can schedule it before or after the normal summer season of the area your wanting to hold the gathering, its a good thing. Owners are already paying major dollars to bring their boat or boats and family to a gathering.
3. Getting the word out to the boat owners. Advertising. With advertising you want to make the gathering appealing to potential sponsors.

When we picked the date for AOTH, it was because we could in May get the use of the whole resort before the prime season. Lower cost and let’s face it,performance boats in most cases make a lot of noise warming up at 6am for that glass smooth run on the lake for testing or a run to breakfast. The name of the gathering came from the date. Remember, almost every weekend on some lake or ocean has something going on. Celebrations, Poker Runs, etc. Even if it's just a day on your hometown lake with your family. Attending a boat gathering is a commitment by the people wanting to attend. Location came from the invite to run my Donzi with Byron and Jerry on Lake Cumberland. They invited me for a long weekend to run with them. I just said lets invite every Donzi owner in the country. Jamestown was centralized on the lake and we had plenty of overflow accommodations with the Lake Cumberland State Park Resort right across the inlet from us.

As the snowball began to roll, I spoke with Fast Eddie who at the time was President of the Lake George Donzi Club. He told me some good information on the what to do and what not to do. We discussed our date for the gathering as the long running Lake George Dust-off happens this time of year also. He didn't feel that us holding AOTH the 2nd weekend of May would be too close to the Dust-off. He also didn't feel that his attendance would be hurt or that AOTH would take away any of the specialness that the Dust-off had come to be known for.

Time for a sponsor and a dealer selling Donzi boats to be asked about supporting the gathering. Byron had a couple dealers in mind and yes was able to find one willing to bring a few boats to our gathering. Tom Riggle and the late Randy Carabelli brought Turbo Propellers through their association with them to the gathering. Food for the gathering came from Jerry's profession and after year one, a Texas smoker/meat donation from Mark, Todd and the help of their lovely wives. The 1st year, we used the Jamestown Resorts staff for our dinner They supplied the main items and everyone was asked to bring a cover dish item. Jerry did a masterful job with organizing our meals. Got names and numbers of guests so no one would go hungry or be mad because we ran out of food. The gathering t-shirt the first year came together by a company in Columbus,OH. I took Donzi photos, books and owner's manuals to them and said I need a gathering t-shirt. (I'll bet there are even a few people out there who have that first year shirt still hanging in their closet like I do.) We were then blessed to be provided with a then living in MI artist named Jeff Dykama. This young man is in a wheel chair, unable to move from his waist down and yes a Donzi owner who can drive the prop off a performance boat. He has since married and has a son living out on the West side of our country now. He has done the designs for the gathering t-shirts every year since 2001. I used to just give him a boat I wanted to dedicate that year and he's hit it out of the park every year with his designs! Something that really only an owner of a Donzi could have done.

For my final supporting body, we were blessed that the Donzi factory executives took interest in our plans and sent a wonderful aid to me named Mike Miller. Mike arrived and said Scott, how can I help? He was our MC that first year. Since then for most of the years we've had Tom a ZX owner from IN I believe entertaining the gathering. The man can sell anything at an auction and livins the party even more with his fun loving, joking atitude. The lovely ladies presenting the auction items over the years. Doctor Dan who created a line of Donzi clothing at the time the factory didn't have one available to the owners. Donzi Fat Towels were also offered. The wives, girlfriends of the owners letting us be kids for just a few days.

I know I'm leaving people out with this post. Jerry's daughter Elizabeth, Byron's brother Brandon who brought the trailer company he worked for in as asponsor 1 year. The Donzi owners who boat on Lake Cumberland for all their information on places to see, places to eat on the lake. General area knowledge.

My point and reason in laying all this out is that putting a National gathering together whether it be done by groups of states people willing to come together or just a simple gathering of a couple friends who own a Donzi boat for a weekend or day run all take many behind the scenes people. It can be over-whelming. I was always told Scott, you can please some of the people some of the time, but chances are there may be some who just don't agree with what your doing or how your doing it. I'm happy to say that in most of the AOTH years, that more were pleased than not pleased.

One last thing. I really don't think there needs to be worries of the number of attendees at any gathering. The first year of AOTH I was amazed at so many Donzi boats being in one place and the distances their owners had traveled. I had the only one on my normal lake outing at home with maybe another one being seen far and few between. Boat gatherings aren't about how many boats show up, but owners meeting and becoming friends with maybe someone living near them they didn't even know and building a bonding relationship with them the rest of their lives because they share the Mystic of owning a Donzi or other boat manufacturer's boat. It's the people who make gatherings a success. I remember watching people arrive every year at the launch ramp. There would always be a group willing and able to help if someone needed it, but truthfully, we were hanging out to see a boat we hadn't seen before or to see the new boat someone had purchased or the most prized discoveries, the upgrades that owners had done from year to year.

Stepping down off the pedistal now. I hope I've been able to give those voting a little more insight to gatherings, why we start and do them every year. Best wishes to all!

[Thirdchildhood]

I am closing my week-end flea market store at the end of February because of a decline in business and other ventures are starting to pay off. I will have week-ends free for the first time in 16 years. Therefore I feel qualified to chime in. I plan to attend AOTH this year for the first time and am looking forward to that. I will not attend events on Lake George because of all the rules. We have been ignoring the best fresh water boating in this country; The Great Lakes. The next DMRS event should be up here and not on a lake with noise limits and a 45 mph speed limit in addition to passing an inspection and obtaining a special permit to boat on that lake. Bring 'em up here where we can enjoy a real off-shore run with no noise or speed limits and no nonsense. A run to Put-in-Bay would be awesome. I will see everyone at AOTH and I will be joining the local Lake Erie Donzi group for some runs next summer. I will skip the other events. I voted for more events because we need one on the Great Lakes system. Any Great Lake will do. There are endless destinations.

[BUIZILLA]

thanx for the reply Carl....

In my memory bank I seem to recall there WAS an informal group running the Great Lakes already, both sides of Mich. were involved. Perhaps since you didn't have weekends off until now is the reason you couldn't attend them. I would reach out to others in your area, clearly over 20 members herein in your immediate area, and forge old/new friendships going forward. It's all about the communication.

[Thirdchildhood]

thanx for the reply Carl....

In my memory bank I seem to recall there WAS an informal group running the Great Lakes already, both sides of Mich. were involved. Perhaps since you didn't have weekends off until now is the reason you couldn't attend them. I would reach out to others in your area, clearly over 20 members herein in your immediate area, and forge old/new friendships going forward. It's all about the communication.

Yes, we do have quite a contingent of nice Donzi Classics and I have met and boated with Hot Shot Mick, Sweet Cheekz Parnell, Gregg & sons, Todd & others. The problem is that they get together on week-ends and I've been a week-day boater which suits me fine since the lakes are less crowded and I can get an actual slip at PIB! A national event here would almost certainly be a success. It would be closer for some of our Canadian friends too.

[Phil S]

Just my opinion here, so take it what it's worth. Only two events I have been to are the Gorge Run, and AOTH, both a couple times each. Enjoyed every minute of each, and have met sooo many nice folks by doing so.

Advance / set dates seem to be a key ingredient for successful events.

AOTH has had that "weekend before Memorial Day" set in stone, so folks can plan waay in advance for it. Same place every year, with nice & reasonably priced lake-side/slip accommodations. The Gorge Run is just beautiful and I'll always try to make it. I wish we could set that date, although HedgeHog gives quite a bit of notice.

We have wonderful lakes around here, but none have lakeside hotel /restaurant / marina accommodations, which really stinks. Great lakeside campgrounds, but that doesn't really work.

I too, have always been amazed at how far folks have traveled to come to an event. I'm about 6.5 to 7 hours drive pulling to Lake Cumberland, a little over 4 to Chatt, but that pales to compare to what folks from Annapolis, MD, Detroit, MI, Miami, FL, Kansas, etc. have driven. With gas prices these days, I'm sure that has made an understandable dent in folks attendance plans.

Does salt vs. fresh matter ? It doesn't to me, but wondering if it does to some. I thought it'd be cool to have a Donzi Homecoming event every year. Eastern NC, or Miami either way....get Donzi involved in it as well.

I do agree with Scott's post above, that it is waaay more about the friendships forged and camaraderie. Fun, cool, and sometimes fast boats are part of it, but not the point.

Phil S.

[Phil S]

Jackson Hole, Wyoming, Toronto, Canada, Victoria British, Canada, Connecticut, Nashville, Knoxville, Raleigh NC, Cincinnati, Columbus,.....you people are kinda crazy now that I think about it......

[Phil S]

Fishin' Sucks.....case in point....

[Phil S]

:)

[roadtripse]

Jill and I have been involved in organizing and attending several Donzi rally's for over a decade.

Buiz already said it, but the biggest factor is communication. You can't just throw out out a date on the boards, and expect people to come out out of the woodwork. People are busy, and distracted. In addition to the boards, we have utilized email chains, Facebook, and the phone to drive attendance. I can remember calling over one hundred people, when actively involved in the Awakening.

Another area is inclusiveness. If you meet a newby out on the water, talk up the Runs. If a newby shows up for a Run, include them in your circle. If somebody has an Arnonow inspired boat, the same principles apply. The Runs are about old friendships and new ones.

Some here seem to think that you can just show up and go with the flow. At smaller runs, less than a dozen boats, you can do just this. Name a date and place, get the boats in the water, run them for the day, and that's it. We've done this a bunch in Michigan.

But, the bigger runs take more organization. In the early days, we would have a hundred people show up, nobody knew what was going on, and simple things like food for everyone could be a crapshoot. Some don't like the more organized format. I always felt a little format got everybody going in the same direction, kept everybody safe, and made things somewhat predictable. Invariably, someone would show up and not want to pay the registration fee, provide insurance verification, or otherwise just be a general pain in the butt. Advice, to those of you who gave me headaches, and to other's on my crew, please stay home, and don't inflict your pain on others who may step up and give this a try.

I have invested 1000's into a sweet Classic. I am always looking for an excuse to go run it in an organized Rally. I am happy to help out anyone that wants to grab the rung and put one of these together, anywhere, anytime. Cheers!

[Donzi Vol]

Phil,
I take a little offense to that. Ok, not really...you speak the truth.


Jackson Hole, Wyoming, Toronto, Canada, Victoria British, Canada, Connecticut, Nashville, Knoxville, Raleigh NC, Cincinnati, Columbus,.....you people are kinda crazy now that I think about it......

[Donziweasel]

I am moving to Alabama in the spring. AOTH was cool and I enjoyed it, but I like Chat much better, more relaxed, chilled setting. I am with Carl on LG. Plus, the organizers of that event do not seem to particularity care for me. :)

I guess for me, with family in tow, distance is a factor. Eufala will be close to me but died, as did Destin. Been to both and great locations for events. Maybe the golden age of Donzi Classic events is past us at this point, sad as that is.

[Ed Donnelly]

I like organized. No missed rides etc etc
A.O.T.H. Is the best event I have been to
Missed the boys at 1,000 Islands a few yrs back
Didn't get a ride at A dock
Hope to see you in Kentucky in 2015...Ed

[Lenny]

Didn't get a ride at A dock
That wasn't for anyones lack of trying Ed. You were impossible ot find at Chatt and certainly had a few other things going on. :)

As far as events go, and I have been to many, Chatt, for me, is the hands down winner. Pretty much disorganized yet everyone ends up boating together. Great crowd ( other than the Squid-Billy's ) and lots of accomodation around. Great restaurants within a few miles ( if they don't close the highway down OR you're riding with Buizilla ). The run down the Gorge is fabulous, locks and all, gas is right close to everyone, stores, etc. The run to Chattanooga is also a real crowd pleaser and absolutely beautiful. Best part of the run to me is the fact that you actually get to run the boats. On and off the throttle for an hour or more before you find a resting spot. Water is warm ( very ) and lots of quiet spots to raft up. Water at the bridge is phenomenal for a drivers boat ( read that 18 ) :)

I am not really all that fond of the " time to sit, time to eat, time to start your boats, time to run " sorta thing.

I just wish some of Hedges crew was capable of waking up before noon and getting out on the water but that might be a Bushwacker related thing :tap:.

Anyways, that is the format I like. Deneen and I will definatly be back to Chatt in 2015. And a few nights in Nashville and some sloppy nights at Legends Corner.

The " turdsucker " is a bit of a stretch but the float homes are fun accomodations if not for a tornado. Alabama also has some interesting waterways to frolic in. ( note to self, don't let your wife get absolutely " ****tered " on Margaritas and leave every single piece of identification and money and valuables at a restaurant and expect to board an international flight the next morning )

[Inferno]

Ed , Next year your not allowed to have a 5 hour breakfast, as at Chatt there no set time that we leave the dock.. Bring your oxygen next year and my new one will be alot faster than my 18 you rode in for 2 days at the Awakening. I will gladly give you a ride on the "HOMER SPECIAL" at 105 ,110 ,115 mph +++ :Confus1:

[Ed Donnelly]

[QUOTE=Lenny;44497]That wasn't for anyones lack of trying Ed. You were impossible ot find at Chatt and certainly had a few other things going on. :)

Impossible to find? Bull****. Rob and I were ready to roll at 11.30 a.m. The first run. We even trucked down fuel to A Dock for one member. Seems no one told us to meet at the floating cabins, not the bottom of A dock.
Meet for dinner at 8 p.m.? Rob and I waited until after 9p.m. And no one showed.
Jim told me the second run had a 5 block walk to the restaurant. Yeah I have a lung condition and can't walk 5 blocks.
Ends out no one walked that far.
Breakfast? We were at the right place at the right time and the same people that were late for the dinner were late for the breakfast...
Don't know what I did to **** off someone. But I lived up to my end of the deal..Ed

[Inferno]

Ed, My boat always has room for you and Robbie. I loved looking back and seeing you trying to duck the hail and thunderstorms we hit at 70 mph !!!:hur:

[BUIZILLA]

[QUOTE=Lenny;44497]
Jim told me the second run had a 5 block walk to the restaurant. Yeah I have a lung condition and can't walk 5 blocks.
Ends out no one walked that far. i'm not sure what started this tit for tit, but I will be the fall guy and take full responsibility.. also, I had no idea the lunch was on the big boat next to our receiving dock, until we got there.... I thought it was still at Blue Plate, the 5 block walk... I apologize for any shortcomings, and lack of intinerary , whatever they were.

[duckhunter]

Ed, I know that a lot of guys were asking about you at the Gorge, Buizilla in particular.

The lack of a to-the-minute itinerary can be a pain, but IMO it's one of the reasons that the Gorge Run is so much fun. If I wanted to be scheduled and managed and stressed out all weekend I'd stay at work. The big muscle moves are planned out well in advance, but the exact timing depends on getting all of the cats herded up and heading in the right direction every day.

Sorry it didn't work out this year, but you've always got a seat on a bunch of different boats in Chatt! :thumbs

[Lenny]

Ahh, Jim, I didn't post that. That wasn't my quote you pasted :) Ed did.

I merely indicated that we looked on many occasions for him to come with us. In fact, "we" you and I , and others in same vehicles looked for him to come for lunches, breakfasts and dinners. I think the key here is to have the phone "ON"

So, long "tit-tat" story really short, ED, this is what "a non-organized event" looks like :thumbs There are boats in the water, cabins no more than a hundred feet from any water, and people that want to ride around in them. Next time.

Back to Jim's original intent of this post,... I like informal gatherings with no agenda. Just folks from everywhere doing what they want.

FREE

Think Woodstock and boating in the same mindset.

:)

[Ed Donnelly]

[QUOTE=Ed Donnelly;44503] i'm not sure what started this tit for tit, but I will be the fall guy and take full responsibility.. also, I had no idea the lunch was on the big boat next to our receiving dock, until we got there.... I thought it was still at Blue Plate, the 5 block walk... I apologize for any shortcomings, and lack of intinerary , whatever they were.

Don't appreciate Lenny mouthing off about what he doesn't know anything about.
My health issues didn't stop me from getting the Doral to A dock on time, and that is with Rob and I sleeping in the pick up 2 nights in a row due to unforeseen circumstances. Phil S didn't have any trouble finding me.

[Ed Donnelly]

Ed, My boat always has room for you and Robbie. I loved looking back and seeing you trying to duck the hail and thunderstorms we hit at 70 mph !!!:hur:

Would ride with you anytime in any weather conditions..
Look forward to seeing you in 2015 in my little 16..Ed

[roadtripse]

For the record, I was the one that got ferried by Ed and Rob down to the FP with a surplus five gallon can of premium fuel. I didn't realize that they did not have a ride until I was pulling away from the docks, and I didn't have vests for them, even if I did take them with me. Not to mention the five gallon bomb riding back there with them. The first thing I did when I found out about this snafu was search them out and apologize, when we got back.

So this is a good illustration of exactly what I was talking about earlier here. The Gorge run is on the verge of being something more than a casual gathering in terms of size. The regulars tend to go with the flow. But, it can be a little unnerving to those who don't know the program. Or lack there of.

I wouldn't miss it.

[Lenny]

Ed, it is a shame that our communities "visit" was short. 'Breakfast, lunch and dinners as a "group" with no guidance, purpose, not even a mission statement, AND ALCOHOL ???, well, we tend to wander. Over the last 12 years of our chatting online and DONZI appreciation this was the first time, and first event, that I have ever had the pleasure of meeting you.
Next time :thumbs

Take care

[BUIZILLA]

the truth of my Friday deal was this > Ed and Rob went to Cracker Barrel..... I got to A Dock at 10ish... Mike and I both were waiting at A dock and the fuel dock for a while, no one showed, Tim pulled up to the gas dock at 11:45ish and needed fuel, so we moved away and idled back around the old dam and went to check A dock AGAIN, at that point Tripper was the last boat pulling away, and Mike and I both visually checked A dock and the parking area, saw no one else, and we moved on not to miss the lock opening as a group, I am pretty sure Tim (after getting fuel last) and I were the last to the lock. Further truth > NOBODY told Ed the time to be there (or maybe he was told 12 and not 11 or so), the customary dock board wasn't there for confirmation, and we were still about 45 minutes late due to Hedge changing the drive oil in the Fountain. Apparently, as Tripper and I motored off lastly from A Dock was when Ed arrived. As God is my witness, you have no idea how bad I felt, and Mike can confirm that.

But, breakfasts at Cracker Barrel, 2 exits north, can take longer than expected :thumbs when I got back I went to Ed's cabin and spoke to Rob about dinner Fri night, apologized profusely, but Ed wasn't feeling well enough to come out, I was the last person the eat on the barge that night after checking on Ed and they had to open the grill just to serve me.... I also told Rob to please find me after they went to breakfast on Sat morning and sure enough he was waiting down by the dock and said Ed couldn't make the 5 block walk to lunch that day, but I had zero knowledge that days lunch stop was 500 feet away, and not 5 blocks away, until we got there... Once again, i'll be the fall guy for the itinerary fail, since the entire reason Ed was even there was to help me out for a transit drop off. I made sure he got dinner Sat night, and I saw him again Sun morning before they departed.

[Ed Donnelly]

the truth of my Friday deal was this > Ed and Rob went to Cracker Barrel..... I got to A Dock at 10ish... Mike and I both were waiting at A dock and the fuel dock for a while, no one showed, Tim pulled up to the gas dock at 11:45ish and needed fuel, so we moved away and idled back around the old dam and went to check A dock AGAIN, at that point Tripper was the last boat pulling away, and Mike and I both visually checked A dock and the parking area, saw no one else, and we moved on not to miss the lock opening as a group, I am pretty sure Tim (after getting fuel last) and I were the last to the lock. Further truth > NOBODY told Ed the time to be there (or maybe he was told 12 and not 11 or so), the customary dock board wasn't there for confirmation, and we were still about 45 minutes late due to Hedge changing the drive oil in the Fountain. Apparently, as Tripper and I motored off lastly from A Dock was when Ed arrived. As God is my witness, you have no idea how bad I felt, and Mike can confirm that.

But, breakfasts at Cracker Barrel, 2 exits north, can take longer than expected :thumbs when I got back I went to Ed's cabin and spoke to Rob about dinner Fri night, apologized profusely, but Ed wasn't feeling well enough to come out, I was the last person the eat on the barge that night after checking on Ed and they had to open the grill just to serve me.... I also told Rob to please find me after they went to breakfast on Sat morning and sure enough he was waiting down by the dock and said Ed couldn't make the 5 block walk to lunch that day, but I had zero knowledge that days lunch stop was 500 feet away, and not 5 blocks away, until we got there... Once again, i'll be the fall guy for the itinerary fail, since the entire reason Ed was even there was to help me out for a transit drop off. I made sure he got dinner Sat night, and I saw him again Sun morning before they departed.

After roadtripse left, Rob and I watched the 25' ? Donzi being towed in by an 18? Donzi We were right at the end of the dock watching them. We were still there when the 4 of them left. The whole trip wasn't a disaster as Parnell kept his word to Rob and I.
This is flogging a dead horse horse and I am done with it. Jim we should talk on the phone some day..Ed

[Inferno]

Lenny, Thats a great picture of that 18 .. Who's is it ??? :Confus1:

[Inferno]

After beating 5 horses to death ..... Where ,how and when does anyone want to do an event ?? Is AOTH going to be the premier run this year ?? If so they need to start now getting the word out ,as a lot of us are filling in our calendars :tap:

[duckhunter]

AOTH has had that "weekend before Memorial Day" set in stone, so folks can plan waay in advance for it.




After beating 5 horses to death ..... Where ,how and when does anyone want to do an event ?? Is AOTH going to be the premier run this year ?? If so they need to start now getting the word out ,as a lot of us are filling in our calendars :tap:

Is this a test of some sort? It's the same date every year!

[boldts]

Hummmmm since new ownership, does AOTH now become a gathering of Baja, Fountain, Proline, Donzi, Formula, Magnum, Cigarette and any other performance boater who want to have a fun weekend together enjoying the beauty of Lake Cumberland?

Can't remember anyone ever telling anyone they couldn't come to the gathering. Better make sure the Lake Cumberland State Park Resort doesn't have a fishing tourney happening that weekend. LOL :thumbs This could get really BIG, REALLY FAST if some folks in Washington, NC want to get behind it pushing all the brands being built there. Would be stunning to see a 50th Anniversary 22 in attendance.

Did I mention I really do miss organizing with the help of all the other friends and enthusiast of this gathering. AOTH is in great hands with Byron, Jerry and everyone else who helps them including the Donzi Marine Restoration Society. I'm sure Jamestown isn't going to say no to reservations either, but special rates for the attendees is usually a part of the weekend also. You want to make sure all that is in place and everyone is aware of it first. Just remember, this is their off-season.

[Lenny]

We are sincerely interested in opinions. Let's hear the good and bad.

I would love to do a Texas gathering, big time, again. Possum or wherever. Keep the scorpions off me when I sleep tho. Smokers outside, FREE LIVING, cheap accomodations, beautiful lake.

Tons of room to run. Lots of room to float/raft/drink beer. Great launch, covered docks.

Somewhat lawless.

I'd love to see a large gathering there at Bass Hollow again. Book all the rooms (cabins )

Oh, and no hurricanes... that last one vacated the entire south of Texas but gave us blue skies for 4 days :)

Might have to hit the Elephant Saloon in D Fort worth too.

I think there was something subliminal here too :thumbs

Give me an 18 with a BH and 400 hp and I'll spank anyone...

[roadtripse]

Funny thing, our place on Possum Kingdom came up for sale recently, but we're keeping our place at Lake Cumberland for now.

So this has all been some nice feedback and such. But the real question is, are we going to keep living in the past and rehashing things that occurred in the past, or is someone going to step up and put some new runs on the calendar?

[ITLLFLI]

One thing for sure is the 15th Anniversary of AOTH is May 14-16, 2015!! Clear your calendar now!!!

[Donzi Vol]

The Gorge can be a wee bit stressful on timing, but there's usually not a huge hurry to leave so I've never missed the boat (pun intended). It's also hard to miss that many loud boats firing up. Personally, I prefer it that way. Of course I'm from the South, and we generally don't like structure on the weekends.

We (the TN folks) have batted around a Knoxville area gathering in the past, as the boating and scenery is great. However, there is a big problem in the lack of waterfront lodging. There would be a fair amount of trailering and launching.

Hopefully we'll make it to AOTH in '15. We'll definitely be at the Gorge.

What about an east coast thing in the Carolinas? Wilmington, Charleston, etc. If we could get the factory on board, as Scot said, that would be pretty cool. I nominate Phil S (unless he's covered up changing out fuses :D).

[Escman]

Please keep the thread updated.

[roadtripse]

The Gorge can be a wee bit stressful on timing, but there's usually not a huge hurry to leave so I've never missed the boat (pun intended). It's also hard to miss that many loud boats firing up. Personally, I prefer it that way. Of course I'm from the South, and we generally don't like structure on the weekends.

We (the TN folks) have batted around a Knoxville area gathering in the past, as the boating and scenery is great. However, there is a big problem in the lack of waterfront lodging. There would be a fair amount of trailering and launching.

Hopefully we'll make it to AOTH in '15. We'll definitely be at the Gorge.

What about an east coast thing in the Carolinas? Wilmington, Charleston, etc. If we could get the factory on board, as Scot said, that would be pretty cool. I nominate Phil S (unless he's covered up changing out fuses :D).

What about Norris, Dave? Lodging there... And not far from Knoxville at all...

And Phil, you just got called out. I would still like to check out Smith Mountain some day..

And for the Michigan contingent, is there still interest in a Charlevoix/Lake Michigan run in August? Awesome country...

[Donzi Vol]

What about Norris, Dave? Lodging there...

Yep, there sure is. Norris is beautiful too. Not a lot of mileage to run there, but we could do a bar-hop type deal, as there are plenty of good marina restaurants/bars.

Tim and I are having drinks this weekend. We'll have a few too many and see if we can come up with something.

[Donzi Vol]

...And Phil, you just got called out...

My favorite quote of the Gorge weekend was when I asked Phil (after he was in his engine compartment most of the morning), "so it was just a fuse?" "No Dave, there was a lot more to it than that!"

[Lenny]

"so it was just a fuse?" "No Dave, there was a lot more to it than that!"


...and, in fact, it was just a fuse :D

[Phil S]

Lmao ! Lenny, Dave....Bite Me ! :) But yes, the 10 amp fuse gave way BECAUSE the electric fuel pump was failing thereby drawing far too many amps causing the fuse to blow. So, as in all things with boats, I spent $300.00 more, and 3 hrs labor, to fix a 0.05 cent fuse !! :)

Phil S.

[Phil S]

Plus, I have one shiny new part in my engine bay now ;). Gotta start somewhere. :)

[duckhunter]

Lmao ! Lenny, Dave....Bite Me ! :) But yes, the 10 amp fuse gave way BECAUSE the electric fuel pump was failing thereby drawing far too many amps causing the fuse to blow. So, as in all things with boats, I spent $300.00 more, and 3 hrs labor, to fix a 0.05 cent fuse !! :)

Phil S.

It was actually a $75 dollar unobtanium fuse. I just haven't sent you an invoice yet... :D

[Ghost]

It was half the internals plus the fuel system, but Phil McGuyver fixed it all with just a fuse.

[boldts]

Kinda thinking why not have a Home Town Rally in Washington, NC? I've never been there, but its kinda on the inter-coastal waterway isn't it? The factory could be a big part in maybe a dinner or lunch along with tours. Show owners their commitment to the Donzi, Proline, Baja and Fountain boat lines. It wouldn't be an easy attend for the West coast owners, but it's pretty centralized for the East coast owners whether you be North or South.

Like I said, haven't been there, but it's on a river I believe. You'd have fresh or brackesh water for those who prefer not to run in salt water, yet being off the ocean, there would be access for the owners of the larger ZRs, ZXs, Fountains, Proline offshore fishing rigs and Bajas to come up or down from any of the coastal marinas. Have a complete display of all 4 companies showing plans for the future. All that water available, poker runs wouldn't be to hard to set up with winners in each boat manufacturer catagories.

LOL did someone invite me to Lake Cumberland for a long weekend again? :D

[Inferno]

I'm guessing the Awakening will be the "BIG RUN" this year and then there will be many local runs though out the year. The Awakening is for everyone no matter how slow your boat is. I'm tired of looking at 22, 18's and where are the other great models ????? I also feel it needs to be financial friendly, so we can see new faces.:hammer:

[Ed Donnelly]

I'm guessing the Awakening will be the "BIG RUN" this year and then there will be many local runs though out the year. The Awakening is for everyone no matter how slow your boat is. I'm tired of looking at 22, 18's and where are the other great models ????? I also feel it needs to be financial friendly, so we can see new faces.:hammer:

Well if you are tired of looking at 22's. and 18's. I will bring my 16 in May....Ed

[duckhunter]

I'm guessing the Awakening will be the "BIG RUN" this year and then there will be many local runs though out the year. The Awakening is for everyone no matter how slow your boat is. I'm tired of looking at 22, 18's and where are the other great models ????? I also feel it needs to be financial friendly, so we can see new faces.:hammer:


Guess we need to get the barge to AOTH this year - it fits all of your criteria! It's slow and isn't an 18 or a 22... :thumbs

I know that you & Lenny and your much better halves were captivated by the bowrider experience in Chatt this summer.

[Inferno]

OK ED .....Its my time to take a ride with you !!!!!!!!!! I would love to see the 14's and 16's as it's a great place to show case them .. Just think if we could get Poodle to flatbed his collection we would have them all .. lol lol lol :shift:

[Lenny]

It wouldn't be an easy attend for the West coast owners, but it's pretty centralized for the East coast owners whether you be North or South. :D

Scott, your West Coast owners are never in the right place so distance isn't an issue for these events. We buy a ticket, take off, get drunk, fall asleep, wake up, get off the plane, usually it is hotter, boat, get drunk, fall asleep, wake up, do it many times more, THEN, wake up, get on a plane. get drunk, fall asleep, wake up, usually it is colder and get off the plane :D

Very simple stuff... :)

[Lenny]

you & Lenny and your much better halves were captivated by the bowrider experience in Chatt this summer.

Chis, quite honestly, you're right. I would much rather hang with you, this group, everyone, drink beer, float in some warm cove somewhere with country music blaring in the background, observe scenery I don 't see at home and chat with interesting people than going 200 mph in a 16.

We can all do that on our own time. Everyone on this board can do that in their own environment, and be successful at it. Everyone has fantastic rides.

What we can't do in our " personal " bubbles is all be together, enjoy the comradery, the love of the boats and the " bond " that it has created. Our geographic distances, cultures, Governments and politics dissolve when the Brand gets on stage. Everyone is respectful, we entertain "personalities", if nothing else, we learn about others.

It makes it hard to see what makes us all "different".

We're not.


Thanks all.

That's what I like :thumbs

[Thirdchildhood]

I also feel it needs to be financial friendly, so we can see new faces.:hammer:

Cost was a big reason that this year will be my first. That's mostly because I would have had to close my business for a week-end and before the economy collapsed that would have meant losing $3,000 on top of the trip expense. I had considered coming alone and sleeping on the boat. I've bathed plenty of times in lakes (not in a marina though!). This year I will have the money to do AOTH right and I plan to run the boat and burn some gas! That's too far of a tow to just anchor it. I will have $ this year but maybe it could be made more affordable to others someway. Maybe a bargain package that doesn't include all of the food and the T-shirt and single people could double up on rooms with roll-away beds. Spend the money on gas!! :)

[Lenny]

single people could double up on rooms :)

Carl, you're one thinker, I tell you !!!

Here's what I'll do. Deneen will stay behind and feed all the wild deer, bear, elk and cougars and I will travel to AOTH alone. I will donate the use of my bed(s) to any women under 25 for the entire weekend and supervise :)

$$$ problem solved

You're welcome :thumbs

[duckhunter]

Chis, quite honestly, you're right. I would much rather hang with you, this group, everyone, drink beer, float in some warm cove somewhere with country music blaring in the background, observe scenery I don 't see at home and chat with interesting people than going 200 mph in a 16.

We can all do that on our own time. Everyone on this board can do that in their own environment, and be successful at it. Everyone has fantastic rides.

What we can't do in our " personal " bubbles is all be together, enjoy the comradery, the love of the boats and the " bond " that it has created. Our geographic distances, cultures, Governments and politics dissolve when the Brand gets on stage. Everyone is respectful, we entertain "personalities", if nothing else, we learn about others.

It makes it hard to see what makes us all "different".

We're not.


Thanks all.

That's what I like :thumbs


Right on brother! What the bowrider lacks in WOT speed she more than makes up for with swimming hole capabilities.

We've been to Chatt three times (actually full crew twice, me once), and the runs are awesome, but the highlight for us has been the socializing. There isn't much better IMO than rafting up with a bunch of cool boats and drinking beer with some great folks. Or enjoying early morning coffee (or Bloody Marys) on the front porch of the floating cabin and BSign with the people on the porch next door.

I'm not a very outgoing, social butterfly-type guy, so the first year we went was kind of a shot in the dark. Glad it worked out! We will probably always own some flavor of Donzi just to have an excuse to show up at events.

[f_inscreenname]

This is what happens to me. Nothing, nothing, nothing, Oh crap that's next week?
To be honest I didn't even know we had a calendar here until just the other day. IMHO there should be a stick topic with a single post with the events and locations listed by date. Send a MOD/Admin a p/m telling of the event and they can update it that way it's all right there in the first post and not spread out over a long thread. Maybe a linked button (up by the Donate button) to a static page of events. I know topics will pop on the boards 2 weeks before the events but they are no help. It also wouldn't hurt if there was a "upcoming event" news line (or what ever they call it) in the header or top of page on the site.
I commend DMRS for trying to get grass roots gatherings together to build a stronger community. The last 6 years have been rough for the boating community with high gas prices, shrinking wallets and depreciating boat values. It would be easy to just let it all fade away. Nice to see some are trying to not let that happen.

[duckhunter]

This is what happens to me. Nothing, nothing, nothing, Oh crap that's next week?
To be honest I didn't even know we had a calendar here until just the other day. IMHO there should be a stick topic with a single post with the events and locations listed by date. Send a MOD/Admin a p/m telling of the event and they can update it that way it's all right there in the first post and not spread out over a long thread. Maybe a linked button (up by the Donate button) to a static page of events. I know topics will pop on the boards 2 weeks before the events but they are no help. It also wouldn't hurt if there was a "upcoming event" news line (or what ever they call it) in the header or top of page on the site.
I commend DMRS for trying to get grass roots gatherings together to build a stronger community. The last 6 years have been rough for the boating community with high gas prices, shrinking wallets and depreciating boat values. It would be easy to just let it all fade away. Nice to see some are trying to not let that happen.


The tyranny of the calendar is an obstacle, it bit us in the ass last year. Everything was tracking along and then we had a bunch of conflicting work/family events pop up. Agreed on setting up an annual sticky, maybe a single post with details per event so it doesn't get cluttered.

As far as expenses go, seems like these runs are a relative value compared to other boating vacations, especially when you factor in how much you get to run. The smiles per mile quotient is way up there, too. The dh crew has been spitballing a Bahamas trip for a few years now. Run from WPB to Abaco or Lucaya on a big center console, rent a condo, etc for 4 days. Even bringing & cooking our own meals and doing the crossing slow to conserve fuel we estimated at least 4x as much as a long weekend in Chatt.

[Lenny]

Run from WPB to Abaco or Lucaya on a big center console, rent a condo, etc for 4 days. Even bringing & cooking our own meals and doing the crossing slow to conserve fuel we estimated at least 4x as much as a long weekend in Chatt.

Chris, you can borrow this from me. BUT, think fuel numbers similar to the national debt. One thing it does know is it's way there and back I believe :thumbs

Let's see, about 80 miles,... http://www.mapcrow.info/Distance_between_West_Palm_Beach_US_and_Freeport_B F.html , the boat will run high 50's and burn 40GPH so figure about 150 gallons to go across.

[duckhunter]

I like the Whitewater...

We'd go across on my buddy's 31 Ocean Master. It's a great ride, but the fuel costs are pretty staggering with the 2-smoke Suzukis. It was eye-opening when he installed the FloScans! We've got visions of sticking the wives in beanbag chairs up front with a cooler full of Coronas while we troll our way across.

We'd have to fill up in the Bahamas at least once at almost $6 a gallon, and more if we did a lot of island hopping or fishing.
It'll get done at some point, just need to get our ducks in a row. Until then we'll stick with trailer boat trips to lakes in the Southeast!

[boxy]

I'm pretty sure we solved the "agenda" thing at the 2005 1000 Islands run....
13690

[MIKEO]

I'm pretty sure we solved the "agenda" thing at the 2005 1000 Islands run....
13690
Still that way
Some are going to bed @ 4 am
Some R getting up :D

[Phil S]

Still that way
Some are going to bed @ 4 am
Some R getting up :D

"Key Ingredient"...............the date (s). <------- (in advance). Everyone's schedule changes, and at times, at the last minute. No harm, no foul, catch you at the next event. Some have year-round seasons, others have four (4) months. I could probably plan a week's vacation around a date to a further destination for an event...with enough notice. Not so much on 2-weeks notice.

Boxy posted the solution to the "Agenda". The schedule of those dates and marinas, regionally, that could accommodate a bunch of crazy folks, with loud boats, that like to go fast, buy gas, eat, drink & be merry for a couple of days, and be allowed to come back next year seems to be the key.

Unlike you people, with a high-performance boat like mine, obviously I have sponsors I have to answer to...and neither they, nor I, can be anywhere close at the same time, but I do my best apparently, and they seem to like that...SEATOW ROCKS....shameless plug. ;)

Phil S.

[Phil S]

..and everyone knows that you just don't start throwing good fuses at a bad fuel pump...sheesh ! :)

[f_inscreenname]

:ot2:

Every time I see a thread go off the rails this runs through my mind....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NnP5iDKwuwk

:cool:

[yembo77]

Fellas,

I haven't been involved in the Donzi community long enough to meet the active members and form the bonds of club friendship, BUT I know what you're talking about from doing the same thing with my car club. After owning the same car and doing the same events for over 14 years now, at this point we come out just to drink beer in the parking lot after the show is over! That's the best part!

SO after reading through all of the posts, excellent points, and bringing some wisdom from my own perspective, here's some thoughts.

1. The Lake needs to be EPIC. It's gotta be big, interesting, accommodating, and a destination that people would want to plan a vacation around, not just a local mudhole.

2. SOME organization is necessary, but not so much that it becomes a burden on a particular host. Of course the home team player is going to know the most and some kind of leadership or itinerary is helpful to put everyone on the same page and so we can all be together to hang out and cruise.

3. No exclusivity. ALL Donzi's welcome. Classics, Z's, even deckboats (they carry coolers :D). I think other Thunderboat row companies like Cig are cool too but lets stay Aronow heritage, not searay or bayliner. This keeps thing narrowed to Donzi, but also allows a more diverse crowd and therefore a bigger turnout.

4. Planning. People need to plan their vacation time off or work, sync up with their spouse, and then be able to secure potentially high demand summer lodging, months in advance. This could mean that a summer event needs to be nailed down and planned by Jan or Feb of the year.

I'm hoping all of this discussion develops into an awesome event. I'm personally a Lake George, NY guy, but I understand the issues with that lake, the costs, and requirements. It's a beautiful place but it can be a pain for boaters. As for recommendations, I've always wanted to put in at Alexandria Bay in NY, or I hear Lake of the Ozarks, MO is insane too, but quite a hike for me @ 18 hours.

Hope to meet you all someday!

Thanks,
Matt Hjembo
87' ZB-21
Greenwood Lake, NY

[High Cetane]

23. No exclusivity. ALL Donzi's welcome. Classics, Z's, even deckboats (they carry coolers :D). I think other Thunderboat row companies like Cig are cool too but lets stay Aronow heritage, not searay or bayliner. This keeps thing narrowed to Donzi, but also allows a more diverse crowd and therefore a bigger turnout.

Wait.......so do I go find a 22 & restore the crap out of it, or can I just bring the Nova?

[Ghost]

Wait.......so do I go find a 22 & restore the crap out of it, or can I just bring the Nova?

Totally bring the Nova!!

[yembo77]

No... bring that Nova. It's related! :D Keep those build pics coming too!

[Inferno]

Well ... Lake Cumberland for the "AWAKENING" has about all that anyone would want for a lake . Nice cheap hotels, good inexpensive food, plenty of places to stop and eat and drink, 100 miles from one end to the other, and above all a bunch of Donzi's and Cigs to drool over :shift:

[Ed Donnelly]

Well ... Lake Cumberland for the "AWAKENING" has about all that anyone would want for a lake . Nice cheap hotels, good inexpensive food, plenty of places to stop and eat and drink, 100 miles from one end to the other, and above all a bunch of Donzi's and Cigs to drool over :shift:

Not to mention a crazy powered 22 that should be showing up to beat my 16...Ed

[High Cetane]

Totally bring the Nova!!


No... bring that Nova. It's related! :D Keep those build pics coming too!

Whew...that was close. Y'all saved me a ton of work. Many thanks!

[Inferno]

No ED.... A gallon a min I'll leave it home and ride with you in the 16 :thumbs

[Ed Donnelly]

No ED.... A gallon a min I'll leave it home and ride with you in the 16 :thumbs

You and your lovely wife are welcome aboard.....but.....if I don't have the power steering installed
YOU DRIVE...Ed

[MadPoodle]

Haven't forgotten, been buried LOL...

[Ed Donnelly]

Haven't forgotten, been buried LOL...

Mr. poodle That wasn't a dig...L.O.L.
When you do have time, remember electric pump not power steering pump.
Why too much hassle trying to install a power steering pump..Ed

[Lenny]

No ED.... A gallon a min I'll leave it home and ride with you in the 16 :thumbs

Try 1-3/4 Gpm Stan.

You and Dre can talk about fuel

[roadtripse]

And it looks like the poll says that people want more runs. But I don't see any more runs being discussed here. Just saying.

[kilbydog]

Lenny said it best in my opinion. It's about hang time. We definitely have strength in number. The knowledge & friendships I have been exposed to has been invaluable. In my case, I prefer regional meets if the boat is involved due to cost and available time off. Chatt & Cumberland have been great. Its difficult to plan more than a couple events per year in my case with obligations and work. We all miss the factory involvement from the past. My hats off to all the effort put forth on this board and from individuals who put in their valuable time to pull off past meets.

[Owen]

I like meeting Like Minded Crazy People in small numbers. Crazy means they will push the throttle when maybe they should not have, they are pushing what they don't know, and that makes for a new experience and I want to be there for that. Small Numbers - and you know who they are.

The North Pacific West Coast is something the rest of the US can't understand. Cause they never visit.

You don't know how beautiful it is, You don't know how dangerous it is, and You don't know the joy it brings to your soul. So, if Lenny ever calls; You should go, f*** everything else....

You Should go. :thumbs

[roadtripse]

I like meeting Like Minded Crazy People in small numbers. Crazy means they will push the throttle when maybe they should not have, they are pushing what they don't know, and that makes for a new experience and I want to be there for that. Small Numbers - and you know who they are.

The North Pacific West Coast is something the rest of the US can't understand. Cause they never visit.

You don't know how beautiful it is, You don't know how dangerous it is, and You don't know the joy it brings to your soul. So, if Lenny ever calls; You should go, f*** everything else....

You Should go. :thumbs

Great post, Owen. It's been awhile since we have shaken hands, but I do get what you are saying here. A few of us have been up to Len's place a couple of times over the past few years, and even ran the boats. Looking to do it again next year, if all works out...

[osur866]

LOTO is a huge lake with 180 lake front bars and Restaurants with 4 major arms to the lake. Many places to stay and miles to run. Wouldn't be hard to plan a run there, the lake for us smaller boats gets a bad rap account it can be rough on the main arm of the lake (80% of the boats boat on 20% of the lake) however getting away from that 20% it's no different than other lakes I've boated on. There's 2 poker runs a year there 1 in late June and 1 over the shootout in late August. Getting a group together wouldn't be hard if there's interest.

[cig 20]

table rock lake would be a good place to hold event not as crowed as loto and not as rough
lots of nice resorts and bars and places to eat just a thought

[thriller2]

Lennys place for you East coasters..It's eye opening and your dollar goes far here..plus he has two houses to crash in..
I call dibs on the top bunk:)

Mike

[roadtripse]

So, we just went through the coldest February since 1875 in Michigan and narrowly missed having our cruiser pancaked in its boat house after a foot of snow created havoc for five of seven marinas at Lake Cumberland. It has been a long winter. Time to put up the snowmobiles and start planning on digging the Donzi out.

So where we going? AOTH and the Gorge Run are all that appear to be on the schedule right now. A few of us have talked about running in a local Lake Cumberland poker run in June. Anybody interested in this? I could go dig out the details....

Edit: Here is the web site for the Thunder Run. Everybody that I have talked to about this run, seems to have enjoyed it.
A little more causal than the big dog run that happens here in the fall and open to small performance boats.

June 19-20.

http://cumberlandpokerrun.com

[Ed Donnelly]

Would have to find a place to store the 16 between the Awkening and June
Just too far to trailer twice in 2 months..Ed

[Ghost]

Maybe on the June Cumberland trip. If the Cig isn't ready for AOTH (could go either way, the full work schedule puts it right at May 15), might thumb rides in May and bring the Cig back in June.

[roadtripse]

Would have to find a place to store the 16 between the Awkening and June
Just too far to trailer twice in 2 months..Ed

Ed, Jamestown does enclosed storage by the month.

[MadPoodle]

Hey Ed, they have a couple that would fit two 16's in....

[Donziweasel]

As I will be a Alabama resident and actually have a Donzi at this point, when is Chat 2015?

[Inferno]

We're NOT telling you .............:nuts::nuts:

[Lenny]

soon...