cherry

Hey Clive, Consider central Virginia. I was in a situation similar to yours when I chose Richmond. I moved before the Internet made research simple, but the resources available then (early-mid '90s) suggested that the mid-Atlantic region was the place to be. It's economically diverse, with a well-established infrastructure and a business-friendly regulatory and tax environment. We're close enough both to the ocean and to the mountains that the great outdoors is very easily accessible, and we get four (relatively) mild seasons in which to play. The cost of housing depends on the neighborhood, of course, but I consider it reasonable in light of the pay scale around here. Most states are hard pressed to offer public education comparable to the quality of schools in New York, but Virginia gets high marks there too. (There are also plenty of good private schools, if you've got the budget for them.) Most of my extended family is still in New York, so I wanted to live someplace that would offer a convenient stop-over when they were headed north or south, and that was within one day's drive. Since I was self-employed, I could put down roots wherever I chose. I took a close look at the Research Triangle, and at Charlotte, NC. I also considered the DC suburbs, and Charlottesville, VA. ...Then ultimately decided on Richmond. VIR (Virginia International Raceway), NCCAR, and Summit Point are all close enough to drive to and from track events on the day of the event.

Hey Gabe, Thanks for sharing these excellent pics! I'm the guy who introduced himself while asking about your chassis flex. That's me with some of my club members stopped at the overlook while on the dragon (DSCN0835.jpg). We should have held back like you and your friend did, rather than follow the touring bikers up. ...Slow going. Your car sounds GREAT, by the way -- both yours and the blue Z you were traveling with.