Comet Gathering 2024

[Joe Travers]

Thanks, Jim!

Nice cars

Joe

[mopar 346]

Good morning folks,

It was a fun filled 3 days, we had 60-67, 72 & 73 represented, maybe Ron can list all the states. I can think of FL, GA, AL, SC, NC, PA, VA, TN, OH, IL, KY and MS, I know I have probably missed some and may have even counted one that wasn't there. More importantly though were the people, great mix of folks, even had some from Canada and one of the Dakota's (I think ND). I heard someone make the statement that they "didn't want to intrude since they didn't bring a car they weren't really put of the Gathering", nothing could be further from the truth, it is the people not the cars that make the Gathering! There were great cars of every favor, build and condition but there were awesome people, you spend a few hours looking at the cars and a few Days talking with the people. I really think the cake and ice cream (sandwich) social was a big hit and we should make it a tradition, Pugs was the driver on this and took care of the cake, the design, the pick up and the expense. Thanks Pugs!

The most common statement I think I heard was what a great Gathering it was, and I reminded most of the folks that the reason it was such a success was that they came back! If we had every car that ever came and said they'd be back we'd easily have 100 cars on the ground, maybe 150. I realize situations change, cars change hands, unfortunately even families and friendships change, so I don't want that statement to be taken as an indictment or a condemnation. I also statemented pointing out that the "core group" is growing and even changing, Mr. Wayne is the sole attendee that has been to every Gathering, some of us came the second year and have been consistent, many of the "core" have been to 5-7 plus but we have many that are starting to be "core" that have been 2 and 3 years consistently. Everyone is important and have become friends. I can't even begin to count the number of people who constantly ask what can I do to help or can I contribute to help cover any expense incurred. I think the best answer was displayed by a story from Jim, he relayed to me that on his first Gathering he pulled in the hotel parking lot with his truck and trailer somewhat tentatively and a guy came at a brisk pace and stuck his hand in the window and said (how are you Jim, great to meet you", that person was Corky, he had recognized the car and the arrival time from the forum - NOW Jim is that person sticking his hand out to say welcome. That is what we can all do to contribute, be the person that welcomes the next person and lends a hand.

I'd like to personally thank the people who started the Gathering, it has been become a family event for us and we all look forward to it each year. Corky, JL, Wayne, Pop, Ratical, Dave from Ohio (who I hope is well but haven't talked to in years), Norval (RIP) and even RC Mike who Ive never met but admire the legend, thank you all for starting a wonderful tradition and doing your little part to preserve the heritage and love of Comets.

Thank you, Kevin

PS: sorry for the length but I had a lot to say!

[comethead]

WOW! So many cool cars and people!
Man I need to make it somehow some way.
Thanks for the pics and updates!

Joe

[mopar 346]

Book a flight and a room, we'll get you picked up and back in time for the return flight.

[poboyjo65]

So cool that so many showed up! Kevin sadly Dave from ohio passed away

Good to see some late models showing up! Jim Thanks for sharing all the great pics for those of us who couldn't make it.

[mopar 346]

[quote - Kevin sadly Dave from ohio passed away

Thank you for the update, I figured but wasn't sure. He gave me a mid-20s Dodge Brothers wheel assembly still attached to a brake drum cause I was a Dodge guy and would appreciate it. It sits on a shelf in my shop and I think of him every time I see it.

[loman]

That's a fantastic car count. One of these days i hope to make it back down there.

[SASSY]

Everytime I read about the Gathering and see the pics,,,,,

[comethead]

Book a flight and a room, we'll get you picked up and back in time for the return flight.

That may have to happen!