Well spent another 3 hours last night trying to get the hood opened. Bought the 12in magic screwdriver, still no luck. At least I now have a new 12in screwdriver.  I ain't giving up, I'll try again tonight.  Plan "B", got a friend that works at a local shop where I had new seals put in the transmission he says he thinks he can get it open.  Plan "C" got a nice craftsman saw standing by.

Please, No Plan "C". Or a least don't post pictures of the results.
BTW, Nice looking car, but I might be a little bit partial.