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914World.com _ 914World Garage _ Making a change...
Posted by: McMark Jun 28 2015, 06:25 PM
About 10 days ago my wife was officially offered a transfer to the new Trader Joes opening in Grand Rapids, MI. We have friends who live there and have been almost every year for the last 12 years. It’s a great place and we decided to take the plunge and make the move. It’s all been happening very fast, so it’s a little scary, but very exciting.
I’m moving Original Customs and will be finding a bigger shop (for half the rent) and continuing to do restoration work, engine building, and all the other projects I’ve been working on. The tricky part was that I don’t want to abandon the customers I have in CA and so I realized the easiest solution was to just get a nice trailer and plan on transporting projects myself. This also expands the range I can service. Before I was mainly seeing people from the west coast, and I’ll now be able to help people from all over the country. With constant email and photo updates, a car that’s 2000 miles away would be the same as a car thats 50 miles away. I’m also considering building an ‘apartment’ into the shop and letting people stay there and work on their project. Maybe do a little welding training, let people blast and powdercoat some of their own parts, etc.
Right now I’m still working on the details of the move and communicating with the people who’s cars are already in the shop now. Then I’ll be contacting the people who are on my wait-list to see who still interested in having work done. If anyone would like to talk about their project, drop me a PM.
Plus, now I can give Rick Ollah some competition for all those Furthest Distance Travelled awards. 
Here's my new four car hauler before we renovate it. 
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Posted by: Elliot Cannon Jun 28 2015, 06:32 PM
Do you know how cold it can get in Michigan?? Sorry to see you leaving the west coast but at least now you might get to work on the limo again. 
Posted by: McMark Jun 28 2015, 06:34 PM
The average low in Grand Rapids is a terrible 22degrees. Average low in Napa, 34degrees. Oh the horror!
Posted by: RobW Jun 28 2015, 06:36 PM
Congratulations Mark! Out in Michigan, you can buy a lot more of everything.
Let me know if you need some help cleaning up, and when your big garage sale is. 
Posted by: ConeDodger Jun 28 2015, 06:38 PM
This is of course huge news! I can't say I'm happy about it, but I do wish you luck!
I wondered when you were going to inform the World... 
Posted by: Elliot Cannon Jun 28 2015, 06:39 PM
Yeah, but it's 22 degrees a lot more often in Michigan. Good luck with the move. 
If you need help moving furniture and such, I'll probably be out of the country that day or I'd be there for ya.
Posted by: rhodyguy Jun 28 2015, 06:43 PM
Sounds like right move. Obviously trader joe's values your wife and her skills. Best of luck! If like last year you shouldn't have to worry about snow until October. 
Posted by: jimkelly Jun 28 2015, 07:07 PM
all the very best !!!
Posted by: Hank914 Jun 28 2015, 07:07 PM
Congrats... The cost of living in Cali Norte is outrageous. Michigan will be colder and cheaper, but I hear it's a dry kinda cold. And just ship the wine over when you need you Napa fix.
Posted by: montoya 73 2.0 Jun 28 2015, 07:20 PM
Posted by: DBCooper Jun 28 2015, 07:20 PM
And you'll get a LOT of practice dealing with rust. BONUS!!
[and one of the conclusions you'll draw is that you really really don't like rust]
Having moved here from somewhere else I just remembered another major difference. In California when you wake up in the morning and walk outside you're in California.
Posted by: Mike Bellis Jun 28 2015, 07:31 PM
Congrats!
You will be missed and there will be a void in NorCal when you are gone.
Posted by: matthepcat Jun 28 2015, 07:35 PM
Big loss for the Bay Area community. Good luck out in the cold white north....and humid in the summer with lots of mosquitoes
Worth it to grow your shop an business if you ask me.
Posted by: Mikey914 Jun 28 2015, 07:44 PM
Congrats Mark,
This is a big opportunity, looking forward to seeing what you get worked out.
Posted by: balljoint Jun 28 2015, 07:46 PM
A little over 300 miles away. Howdy new neighbour!
Posted by: rick 918-S Jun 28 2015, 07:53 PM
Any way I slice it it's under 700 miles or under 12 hours from here. Doable in a day's drive. a long weekend could produce interesting results. BTW: there should be some old industrial digs you can get there for a should space.
Posted by: JRust Jun 28 2015, 08:13 PM
Wow that is huge news! Sounds like a good change of pace for you. Hate to see you go man. Not that is a simple deal from me to drop my car off for work now 
. I sure appreciate all your help with my cars & questions on things. Obviously I can still pester you with questions. Hopefully you & Rick can make some serious Caravan's out for event's. WCR wouldn't be the same without you 
Posted by: Garold Shaffer Jun 28 2015, 08:16 PM
Well you will only be about 2 hours from me so no reason not to come to my annual 914 BBQ in August (if you are Grand Rapids by then).
Once you find where the shop will be let us "locals" know and if need I know some of us would be more than happy to help you get the place setup.
Posted by: Zimms Jun 28 2015, 08:18 PM
Cool! Congratulations! 3 hours away! + what Garold said on the help.
Posted by: mepstein Jun 28 2015, 08:46 PM
The average low in Grand Rapids is a terrible 22degrees. Average low in Napa, 34degrees. Oh the horror!
I think your missing something there. How often does Napa get 10 feet of snow. But good luck with the move.
Posted by: ConeDodger Jun 28 2015, 08:54 PM
The average low in Grand Rapids is a terrible 22degrees. Average low in Napa, 34degrees. Oh the horror!
I think your missing something there. How often does Napa get 10 feet of snow. But good luck with the move.
He's not missing a thing. I come from Minnesota and both Mark and Alison have thought this through. It is the right career move for Alison and it puts Original Customs in the middle of the country. I talked to them about my experiences growing up with 10 feet of snow, though that is an exaggeration, and my only concern is Alison's Mini... Though I suppose it can be driven in the snow, it isn't the best option.
Posted by: Chris Pincetich Jun 28 2015, 08:58 PM
Bummer! I mean, congratulations!
Will I have to update my phone with a new phone number for Original Customs?
No more excuses NOT to plan a visit soon! I've driven near the OC shop along HWY 121 several times while doing fieldwork this month and last month. Lunches at Fremont Diner. OC going away party?
NorCal will miss you 
Posted by: Chris H. Jun 28 2015, 09:14 PM
Grand Rapids is a really nice town. Was just there a couple of months ago. Low cost of living and close to a lot of other fun places. Get a well-insulated shop and it'll be fine in the winter. Sounds like you're already working on it. Definitely come to Garold's if you'll be there by August!
Posted by: 914_teener Jun 28 2015, 09:20 PM
Good move Mark.
The Great Lakes have one third of the worlds fresh water.
Just kidding.
Happy for you and your wife. Good luck on the new location. I don't think you'll need it though.
Posted by: whitetwinturbo Jun 28 2015, 09:34 PM
Time to do some INSULATING to keep down the heating costs! GLWMove!
Posted by: Chris914n6 Jun 28 2015, 09:58 PM
Go too big of a shop and that apartment will be the only warm place to be. Concrete tends to get stuck at the overnight temp. Just something to consider.
Posted by: boxsterfan Jun 28 2015, 11:15 PM
Congrats!! But crap I was going to be bringing my car up to you later this fall.
Posted by: ConeDodger Jun 29 2015, 12:05 AM
Congrats!! But crap I was going to be bringing my car up to you later this fall.
Did you see that new trailer? He will be hauling in projects from all over the country now!
You're still covered! My 914 will be going to Michigan this winter for a top-end rebuild.
The OC can cover a lot more ground now...
Posted by: Cairo94507 Jun 29 2015, 06:53 AM
It is a shame to lose Mark as a Bay Area 914 resource, but obviously cars can be transported around for work. This seems like a well thought out and planned move. Mark's business will grow and his costs will go down too. 
Posted by: warrenoliver Jun 29 2015, 07:23 AM
Glad to hear about this. I have been jealous of the California guys for years because they have all the resources. Now we will have a great one in our backyard.
I do have to giggle at the comparison of the average winter temps. You will forget about the average temps and pay more attention to the actual temps - especially when it gets below zero! 
Welcome to the midwest. 
Posted by: aircooledtechguy Jun 29 2015, 07:31 AM
While change is rarely easy and a bit scary at first from moving out of one's comfort zone, it usually works out for the best in the end. I moved around quite a bit while in the Navy and I can tell you without a doubt, "Change is GOOD!!"
Congrats on your decision to take the plunge and begin a new chapter for both of you.
Posted by: Mark Henry Jun 29 2015, 07:45 AM
A little over 300 miles away. Howdy new neighbour!
Hmmmm... maybe next year an Dr. Evil Canadian tranny clinic with special guest star McMark.
Posted by: MDG Jun 29 2015, 08:22 AM
A little over 300 miles away. Howdy new neighbour!
This 'apartment' thing at the new shop will work out nicely too!
Posted by: Briby37 Jun 29 2015, 08:29 AM
Best of luck, Mark. I'm a midwesterner transplanted in California. It's not so bad there, I promise. I sent you an email about my 914. Hopefully we can chat soon.
Posted by: TJB/914 Jun 29 2015, 08:35 AM
McMark
What great news moving to GR Michigan
You are moving into a great Grand Rapids area not far from all our beautiful lakes. Don't worry about winter just learn to enjoy it and appreciate our (4) seasons.
Great move and great business climate for your skills. Now I have a place to get my 914 worked on when needed. Call on me if you need anything.
Tom
BTW: When traveling on hwy. I-96 there is a big road sign saying Grand Rapids is the "beer" capital of MI. Lots of local special small brewery's 
Posted by: TJB/914 Jun 29 2015, 08:40 AM
Congrats!! But crap I was going to be bringing my car up to you later this fall.
Did you see that new trailer? He will be hauling in projects from all over the country now!
You're still covered! My 914 will be going to Michigan this winter for a top-end rebuild.
The OC can cover a lot more ground now...
Rob,
We have great hospitals in MI too.
Why not locate here in MI.?? Life is good in MI and we have lots of Water. ![popcorn[1].gif](style_emoticons/default/popcorn[1].gif)
Tom
Posted by: Shadowfax Jun 29 2015, 08:48 AM
Best wishes on your move. 
Posted by: Dave_Darling Jun 29 2015, 09:13 AM
So, when is the move happening? It would be great to stop by and have a farewell BBQ...
--DD
Posted by: 72 IXXIV Jun 29 2015, 09:31 AM
Here's wishing you continuing success in your next chapter, Mark.
I for one, will definitely miss having you in the Bay Area.
In other news, 914 lovers in the midwest just hit the jackpot.
Posted by: Mueller Jun 29 2015, 09:41 AM
Dang....mixed emotions about this one!
Missed you during my 914 absence and now you are leaving as I'm getting back into them!
I guess it'll just make the meets that much more important to get to!
Good luck to the both of you, let me know if I can do anything to help.
Posted by: blackmoon Jun 29 2015, 09:47 AM
Thanks for your help over the years. Michigan is a little to far to come up and help on an occasional Sunday. Wish both well with your new endeavors
Posted by: gopack Jun 29 2015, 09:57 AM
It is funny because the post title grabbed my attention. I am doing the reverse move in the next 2-4 weeks. Central NY to the Bay area. maybe we will cross paths. the only difference is that i had to sell the 914 for food money a couple of years ago.
Things sure move fast once the trigger is pulled!
Good luck Mark!
Posted by: ConeDodger Jun 29 2015, 10:17 AM
Congrats!! But crap I was going to be bringing my car up to you later this fall.
Did you see that new trailer? He will be hauling in projects from all over the country now!
You're still covered! My 914 will be going to Michigan this winter for a top-end rebuild.
The OC can cover a lot more ground now...
Rob,
We have great hospitals in MI too.
Why not locate here in MI.?? Life is good in MI and we have lots of Water. Tom
Bliz,
We have actually considered a move back to the Midwest. Yopu is all for it but I am pretty sure that once she experiences 3 feet of snow and -30 degrees she wouldn't come out of the house for 4-5 months out of the year. Remember, where she's from, 70 degrees is cold. I just don't think you can take a tropical girl into that...
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Posted by: Jonathan Livesay Jun 29 2015, 10:29 AM
Sounds like right move. Obviously trader joe's values your wife and her skills. Best of luck! If like last year you shouldn't have to worry about snow until October.
Yes and it will most likely be gone by March. So that's only 6 months of every year.
(Born in Ann Arbor, grew up in upstate NY, fled to Cali)
Posted by: Brian Mifsud Jun 29 2015, 10:38 AM
Very exciting.. but sad to see you go. I visited your shop only a few times (was at Dr. Evils transaxle clinic last year with my son), but was counting on you/it as a resource when I finally start the teardown and restore of my '76. VW/Porsche shops used to be a staple in the 70's, 80's and early 90's but now finding a few in any metro area is not easy.
I'd be happy to participate in any shop clean up/parts clear out you need to do to move. Moving a shop is a massive bear (done that too many times with employers and friends) but I know my way 'round a forklift, engine hoist and heavy equipment rigging. Let us know when you need to do the heavy lifting.
I sure like the prospect of potentially using the shop now and then if arrangements can work out (the lift for suspension work rather than crawling around the floor here at home).
Greatest of luck to you and family. A great adventure.
Posted by: rhodyguy Jun 29 2015, 10:43 AM
EXACTLY!!! my cousin in east aurora ny called to complain about how "she couldn't take it anymore!" every week. "gee cus, only 58 years to figure it out?".
Posted by: jgara962 Jun 29 2015, 11:13 AM
So you mean I'm going to have to start working on my own car again?!?!
This is a big move and I'm sure it will be great for you and Alison. I've been spoiled having you live only a couple of miles away and the shop a 15 minute drive. You've been an incredible resource.
Posted by: Dr Evil Jun 29 2015, 11:39 AM
Bad news Homie, I am less than 6hrs from there That is closer than I am to ScottyB. Scott will be happy for the relief 
Posted by: wes Jun 29 2015, 12:05 PM
Congratulations on your big move, always fun, exciting, and memorable! You are moving to a wonderful part of the country though the winter becomes quite long come January and February (Minnesota transplant) spring and especially fall are gorgeous with the colors, what no earthquake! Real estate values are in your favor and yes you can use water with no thought to the next rainfall!
Anyway as I'm sure you know you will be missed by the westerners though thanks to the to this site we can all keep up with your new challenges.
Hey it's going to be a longer drive to the next WCR. And finally so whats the date for that going away BBQ?
Posted by: Marty Yeoman Jun 29 2015, 01:36 PM
Congrats!You will be missed and there will be a void in NorCal when you are gone.
What he said.Posted by: 69telecaster Jun 29 2015, 03:16 PM
Ignore the nay-sayers and exaggerators. You'll love it here.
I'm just up the road in White Cloud, "where the north begins and the pure waters flow" as the sign says. Bring your waders!
Posted by: McMark Jun 29 2015, 03:24 PM
Thanks for the support everyone. It's 90+ today here in Sonoma. Grand Rapids, is about 80. I think I nailed down exactly what I love about MI summers. I'm sweating buckets.....
Posted by: warpig Jun 29 2015, 03:48 PM
Shit, I was really looking forward to making up excuses to ride down to the OC shop again. 
I can understand fleeing Kalifornia, but Michigan? Are you sure you can handle those uptight East Coast types? 
Maybe you can get a turbo ice racer put together before winter. Its got to be more fun than ice fishing. 
Posted by: ConeDodger Jun 29 2015, 04:40 PM
I just came across this on the internet. A site called Thrillist ranked all 50 States. Florida came in last as it always does in every one of these things but as I scrolled to the number 1 I was surprised! Michigan!
Here is the text...
1. Michigan
Far too much of the Michigan narrative centers on Detroit and its many issues. The Motor City’s become a scrappily rising underdog you can’t help but root for, but Michigan’s greatest strengths lie in the state as a whole. Did you know Michigan has more coastline than any state other than Alaska? Did you know it has such an embarrassment of beer riches that you can easily hit Bell’s and Founders in the same afternoon? Did you know the UP is so remote and uniquely beautiful that it almost feels like a secret 51st state where they inexplicably love British meat pies? Did you know most residents are more than happy to apologize for Eric Shea? If you answered yes to at least three of these than you already understand Michigan’s charms. If you answered no to these questions, you should listen to the dulcet tones of Michigan tourism pitchman Tim Allen and get yourself there immediately.
Who knew??
Posted by: 76-914 Jun 29 2015, 05:44 PM
Go for it. I'll still see ya right here on the board. Little bars will have 40+ kinds of beers. I think you'll like mid-America. The people really care about their neighbor's there. Your not going to get sued every time you fart, either. Prices will be lower. Leave your flip flops in Kali. Be sure to take in Mackinac Island and the Oskosh Fly-in the last week in July. The roasted corn they have is great but I never got into the Brat's. And the girls 
. All they want to do is screw and drink beer until winter. They don't drink much beer in the winter. 
Your gonna love it.
Posted by: Gint Jun 29 2015, 05:54 PM
Dude!~ I just saw this too. Great idea!
Yeah, you're gonna want winter clothes.
Hey call me. I have a six week window after July 4th I don't have any travel, just work. There is almost certainly a on call week in there, but that's better than it used to be. I can be flexible.
Posted by: jgara962 Jun 29 2015, 07:20 PM
Thanks for the support everyone. It's 90+ today here in Sonoma. Grand Rapids, is about 80. I think I nailed down exactly what I love about MI summers. I'm sweating buckets.....Yeah, but do you know what the humidity will do to your hair???
Posted by: mr914 Jun 29 2015, 08:02 PM
Outstanding!
The only problem with the left hand part of the state is the lake effect snows. All in all, you'll love the GR area.
Posted by: oldschool Jun 29 2015, 08:09 PM
About 10 days ago my wife was officially offered a transfer to the new Trader Joes opening in Grand Rapids, MI. We have friends who live there and have been almost every year for the last 12 years. It’s a great place and we decided to take the plunge and make the move. It’s all been happening very fast, so it’s a little scary, but very exciting.
I’m moving Original Customs and will be finding a bigger shop (for half the rent) and continuing to do restoration work, engine building, and all the other projects I’ve been working on. The tricky part was that I don’t want to abandon the customers I have in CA and so I realized the easiest solution was to just get a nice trailer and plan on transporting projects myself. This also expands the range I can service. Before I was mainly seeing people from the west coast, and I’ll now be able to help people from all over the country. With constant email and photo updates, a car that’s 2000 miles away would be the same as a car thats 50 miles away. I’m also considering building an ‘apartment’ into the shop and letting people stay there and work on their project. Maybe do a little welding training, let people blast and powdercoat some of their own parts, etc.
Right now I’m still working on the details of the move and communicating with the people who’s cars are already in the shop now. Then I’ll be contacting the people who are on my wait-list to see who still interested in having work done. If anyone would like to talk about their project, drop me a PM.
Plus, now I can give Rick Ollah some competition for all those Furthest Distance Travelled awards.
Here's my new four car hauler before we renovate it.
To bad she didn't get a job In Monrovia Ca Trader joe's headquarters
Posted by: mepstein Jun 29 2015, 08:16 PM
Just like napa -
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Posted by: GeorgeRud Jun 29 2015, 08:24 PM
We'll gladly welcome you to the Midwest! Nice to actually live in an area that has plenty of fresh water and doesn't shake like the Republic of California.
Grand Rapids is far enough from Lake Michigan to avoid some of the lake effect snows, and the surrounding countryside is beautiful.
As Garrold said, close enough to make the summer BBQ if you're moved by then.
Posted by: Larmo63 Jun 29 2015, 09:38 PM
Dang, I just got to meet and talk to you briefly at WCR, now you're going to Timbuktu?
Kidding, good luck, and I hope things are cheaper there than here.
Posted by: rick 918-S Jun 30 2015, 07:00 AM
I just realized your only 113 miles from Hell....
Posted by: mbseto Jun 30 2015, 07:40 AM
I think Cincinnati is becoming the place to own a 914...
Posted by: eric9144 Jun 30 2015, 09:05 AM
I worked for Trader Joes for 12 years, back when they were expanding out of California...They'll standby by your wife and throw opportunity at her if she goes. MI is a big change from CA... Good Luck and best wishes to you both Mark!
Posted by: TJB/914 Jun 30 2015, 09:21 AM
I just realized your only 113 miles from Hell....
Hi Rick,
You were in Hell in 2005
I remember it well. Mark will do very well in MI with our four seasons. It's not a perfect weather world and Mark will have to purchase some Stormy Kromer winter weather gear made in the UP http://www.stormykromer.com A cool hat with ear flaps
Tom
Posted by: McMark Jun 30 2015, 09:34 AM
Tom
Watched Escanaba in da moonlight last night.
Posted by: worn Jun 30 2015, 09:54 AM
About 10 days ago my wife was officially offered a transfer to the new Trader Joes opening in Grand Rapids, MI. We have friends who live there and have been almost every year for the last 12 years. It’s a great place and we decided to take the plunge and make the move. It’s all been happening very fast, so it’s a little scary, but very exciting.
I’m moving Original Customs and will be finding a bigger shop (for half the rent) and continuing to do restoration work, engine building, and all the other projects I’ve been working on. The tricky part was that I don’t want to abandon the customers I have in CA and so I realized the easiest solution was to just get a nice trailer and plan on transporting projects myself. This also expands the range I can service. Before I was mainly seeing people from the west coast, and I’ll now be able to help people from all over the country. With constant email and photo updates, a car that’s 2000 miles away would be the same as a car thats 50 miles away. I’m also considering building an ‘apartment’ into the shop and letting people stay there and work on their project. Maybe do a little welding training, let people blast and powdercoat some of their own parts, etc.
Right now I’m still working on the details of the move and communicating with the people who’s cars are already in the shop now. Then I’ll be contacting the people who are on my wait-list to see who still interested in having work done. If anyone would like to talk about their project, drop me a PM.
Plus, now I can give Rick Ollah some competition for all those Furthest Distance Travelled awards.
Here's my new four car hauler before we renovate it.
Please feel free to stop in Madison on the way. Then I can drive and help unpack with my two strong sons. Really.
Warren
Posted by: gopack Jun 30 2015, 10:00 AM
Tom
Watched Escanaba in da moonlight last night.
Funny movie, but the U.P. and Youpers are nothing like the L.P. (I have family in Escanaba, the top of Deaths Door). After you are settled, take the high speed ferry from Muskegon to Milwaukee when you need a fun weekend! it is a blast and reasonable way to avoid Chicago! http://www.lake-express.com/
Posted by: peteyd Jun 30 2015, 10:09 AM
Awesome news! We will be neighbors too. You might want to think about getting a snowmobile, they're great fun!
Posted by: Luke M Jun 30 2015, 10:57 AM
Mark,
There's a lot of vacant shops/buildings that I've seen in my travels to Mich.
My wife is from Mich and has a lot of family there. We are in Mich several times a year and even looked at moving there ourselves. The weather in Mich vs Western NY is about the same so it's no big deal for us.
If you can deal with the weather in Mich you will be all set. Like anything you will adjust to it and move forward.
Oh and a plus if you don't already know this, your taxes will be far less then CA.
Best of luck on the move and I may see you in my future travels.
Posted by: TJB/914 Jun 30 2015, 11:03 AM
Tom
Watched Escanaba in da moonlight last night.
Mark,
Don't tell anyone, but MI has fresh air from GR & North. When darkness comes you can look up and see bright stars, cause no bright city lights blind them out. You are only a few hours drive to the Midwest Rivera Gold Coast of North West area Lake Michigan resort destinations. Lots of old cars hidden away in old homes and if you like wooden boats, lots of them.
I just missed the Bay Harbor (Petoskey) MI boat & auto show last week, but will take my (4) grandkids to the huge local farm tractor show to view restored tractors better than our 914's and the food is to die for. Just MI stuff to enjoy.
Advice:: When it gets cold in winter & the wife complains, you become a snow bird and head down to FL for a few months
. Tom
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Posted by: McMark Jun 30 2015, 11:09 AM
Dang, I just got to meet and talk to you briefly at WCR, now you're going to Timbuktu?
Kidding, good luck, and I hope things are cheaper there than here.
I'll be back for events.
And yes things are cheaper. The top house in is MI, the bottom house is ours in Napa.
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Posted by: rick 918-S Jun 30 2015, 12:14 PM
Dang, I just got to meet and talk to you briefly at WCR, now you're going to Timbuktu?
Kidding, good luck, and I hope things are cheaper there than here.
I'll be back for events.
And yes things are cheaper. The top house in is MI, the bottom house is ours in Napa.
Nice, Just checked it out on google maps. Nice Deck and I bet you have enough room to make the garage double deep.
Posted by: montoya 73 2.0 Jun 30 2015, 12:16 PM
Dude, I hope your looking for at least a 3 car garage and 2 bath. Still should be under 400K.
Posted by: jeeperjohn56 Jun 30 2015, 12:46 PM
Mark, you will be truly missed here and now I will have to worked on my cars which sucks, is there someone you can reexamine for working on our cars. John
Posted by: Marty Yeoman Jun 30 2015, 01:18 PM
Dang, I just got to meet and talk to you briefly at WCR, now you're going to Timbuktu?
Kidding, good luck, and I hope things are cheaper there than here.
I'll be back for events.
And yes things are cheaper. The top house in is MI, the bottom house is ours in Napa.
I hope you're not seriously thinking of selling your Napa house. As the saying goes, "You'll never be able to move back!" If you can keep it, rent it out and turn all those WCR trips into a business expense. My $.02. Marty
Posted by: McMark Jun 30 2015, 02:04 PM
No way. We will keep it and rent it out. 
Posted by: DirtyCossack Jun 30 2015, 02:11 PM
I think Cincinnati is becoming the place to own a 914...
Yes!!! I plan to move back when my current contract is up in 2017.
Posted by: gms Jun 30 2015, 02:20 PM
if you like to race you will be pretty close to
http://grattanracewaypark.com/
and
http://www.gingermanraceway.com/about-track-maps.html
good luck with the move!
Posted by: biosurfer1 Jun 30 2015, 02:34 PM
I'll be back for events.
And yes things are cheaper. The top house in is MI, the bottom house is ours in Napa.
Nice house...I happened to find a picture of it from last winter:
Posted by: StratPlayer Jun 30 2015, 03:11 PM
Have a younger brother who lives in East Lansing.
Posted by: Mark Henry Jun 30 2015, 03:32 PM
I used to go to BuggyBuilders VW bug show in Lansing every March, I haven't been in almost 10 years but it's still going on.
http://www.buggybuilders.com/
And there used to be a show/drag races at the Milan track but I think they stopped a while back. But it Looks like it has started back up at another track, US 131 Motorsports Park, just south of your new digs.
Not that many 914's, but there is a huge VW scene to get yourself involved in.
http://www.mvvc.net/eventlist/vweventlist.php
Posted by: rhodyguy Jun 30 2015, 04:56 PM
it would be interesting to know if the MI house is off the market for a 'rest' due to lack potential buyers. No telling how cheaply you might be able to get into it for. Is the market heated up in your local CA area?
Posted by: Marty Yeoman Jun 30 2015, 05:23 PM
No way. We will keep it and rent it out.
Smart move. You win!!
Posted by: Harpo Jun 30 2015, 06:05 PM
I now have a mechanic who knows what a 914 is and your only about 2 hrs away. You will love Michigan. Yes it does get cold here in the winter. But That is what remote start is for.
Welcome to Michigan - glad to have you
David
Posted by: Dave_Darling Jun 30 2015, 06:37 PM
And yes things are cheaper. The top house in is MI, the bottom house is ours in Napa.
Dude! Only $440K in Napa? Shoot, maybe Da Boss and I should think about moving...
--DD
Posted by: arkitect Jun 30 2015, 08:23 PM
Mark,
Surprised to hear this news. You have a lot of cars to haul with you.
Good luck on the new location.
Dave
Posted by: Krieger Jun 30 2015, 08:25 PM
Dude...excited for you guys, but gonna miss dropping by and hanging out. When are you leaving? Tough week. First Krusty and now you.
Posted by: bigkensteele Jun 30 2015, 08:49 PM
Don't listen to all those science-deniers. According to An Inconvenient Truth, Grand Rapids will have the same climate as Napa by next year, and Napa will be uninhabitable. You are getting out just in time. 
Glad to welcome you to flyover country. I really hope you guys like it here, and I look forward to meeting you sometime soon.
Posted by: pete000 Jun 30 2015, 10:11 PM
Pack a sweater !!
Posted by: RobW Jul 10 2015, 01:20 PM
When's the big move?
Posted by: Eric_Shea Jul 16 2015, 09:37 AM
You're going to be awfully close to Glenn and Garold. You sure about this? 
Posted by: maddog Jul 16 2015, 10:44 AM
Mark I guess we will be neighbors now! What part of Grand Rapids are you looking at? I live less than 5 miles from where the trader joes is being built.
Posted by: gms Jul 16 2015, 03:18 PM
You're going to be awfully close to Glenn and Garold. You sure about this?
Careful there E
Posted by: Eric_Shea Jul 16 2015, 03:38 PM
Posted by: Mike Bellis Jul 16 2015, 06:34 PM
When is the official Original Customs going away party? 
Posted by: bulitt Jul 16 2015, 07:40 PM
Yeah, but it's 22 degrees a lot more often in Michigan. Good luck with the move.
If you need help moving furniture and such, I'll probably be out of the country that day or I'd be there for ya. July, August, and Winter.And the average 22 degrees is accompanied by snow, ice, and heavily salted roads.
Posted by: Mike Bellis Jul 17 2015, 06:30 PM
When is the official Original Customs going away party?
Mark, when can we set this up? We can all bring empty boxes, packing tape and beer.
Posted by: worn Jul 17 2015, 09:09 PM
When's the big move?
Don't forget my offer to help in the unpacking and setting up. Wisconsin is just the other side of a lake too big to see across that people surf on. Welcome to the rust belt!
Posted by: r_towle Jul 17 2015, 09:27 PM
Congrats on making such a big decision.
I wish you all the luck in your venture.
Rich
Posted by: Ian Stott Jul 19 2015, 06:02 AM
Looking at the Google Map you are really just across the border from us, woot woot! Good for us, will send you snow blower recommendations and useage instructions when you are ready! Any snow related needs check with us first, we will always tell you how to spend your money wisely! Congrats to your wife, the fact that you can pick up and move without hurting your business is actually pretty awesome, kudos to you for supporting her and for seeing the big picture. I wish you both all the best and look forward to visiting your shop once I have my issues sorted out.
Ian Stott
Moncton
Canada
Posted by: RobW Jul 19 2015, 07:03 AM
Looking at the Google Map you are really just across the border from us, woot woot!
Ian Stott
Moncton
Canada
Are you trying to get McMark to stay in CA?
Posted by: Marty Yeoman Aug 6 2015, 11:38 AM
When is the official Original Customs going away party?
Anything being planed??
Posted by: andys Aug 6 2015, 02:14 PM
Sorry to lose such a great resource in Cal, however if the move is good for you and your family, then it's a good thing. Good luck!
My MI experience was a business trip to Tri-Cities in early Nov. some years ago. Miserable is an understatement. Wind blowing, snowing sideways, roads whited-out, cars sliding into each other, and add to that, a scary commuter plane ride I'll never forget....couldn't believe they flew in those conditions! Of course this is from a SoCal guys perspective.
Andys
Posted by: McMark Aug 6 2015, 02:49 PM
I think Aug 29 would make a good BBQ. I'll start a new thread.
Posted by: wes Aug 6 2015, 04:46 PM
Its on my calendar, anything I can bring?
Posted by: strawman Aug 6 2015, 05:36 PM
Hi Mark, Sorry to see you leave us here on the Left Coast, but I'm excited for your new adventures. I'll be co-driving a friend's 911 at an autocross driving school in Alameda the day of your BBQ, but I'll stop by later in the afternoon if the school lets out early enough. If I don't see you, best of luck in Michigan!
Geoff
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