I trust that you are well and staying safe as we navigate our way through this most unusual time.

I hope that everyone is diving into deferred projects to keep interested and productive. Now is certainly the opportunity to start or finish that "when I get the time" task.

The Appalachian Region Board of Directors held its April meeting yesterday afternoon via teleconference. Most of the discussions centered on 2020 planned activities. The Wayah Bald SUV Drive scheduled for April 11th is unfortunately postponed. Driving limitations imposed by State and County governments will not allow us to hold the event, even with social distancing. The May BOD meeting will again be via teleconference on April 30th. Please email me through our website if you would like to listen in.

Our monthly Brewery Socials will continue to be held on the second Wednesday of the month, but until we can meet again in person they will held virtually on Skype – details and registration. Don't forget to BYOB! We still hope to hold a Dine & Drive on May 21st which would include a picnic lunch, more on that later.

We are considering purchasing a number of Appalachian Region Grille Badges for sale to our members. We would order either a batch of 25 or 50 depending upon member interest. The badges will be enameled with the Appalachian Region Round Logo in color and would be 2.75 inches in diameter. Because of the small numbers anticipated the cost would be on the higher side at $50 each for 25 badges, but less if we can order 50. Please email Charlie Hickey if you would like to purchase a badge (or 2!) at $50 each. With sufficient interest we will order badges in early May.

There remains an urgent need for assistance at MANNA. For those that may be able to assist or donate during this critical period please review the MANNA FoodBank & COVID-19: Response and Update at http://www.mannafoodbank.org.

Although the sales department is temporarily closed, our friends at Porsche Asheville remain open to service Porsche, Audi and Volkswagen vehicles. Please visit their website or call 828-232-4001 to schedule service.

Please take care of yourself and your family. Stay safe, healthy and positive!

My best,

Don TherienDon Therien