Our June ride will be an all day jaunt to Yakima Canyon. I have our meeting listed as normal as far as time and place, but I think that has been modified... so I will post the appropriate info, and get an email out to distribution.
Digger
Friday, May 29, 2009
Saturday, January 24, 2009
2009 is underway
Our January meeting is behind us, and we are moving on into the new year.
I finally got the minutes sent out to distribution, and am looking over the maps for western Washington to come up with two or three ride to eat (RTE) events. We have a few members who work on week ends, so they have to take time off to join us on our regularly scheduled rides (which usually take place right after each meeting). The RTEs will be planned for mid-week to accommodate the week end workers.
Registration for STAR Days will open up on line February 2nd. I'll have to go shake the change jar to find out if I am camping or reserving a nice room. Either way, I am going...
It will be sunny and warm any day now...
I finally got the minutes sent out to distribution, and am looking over the maps for western Washington to come up with two or three ride to eat (RTE) events. We have a few members who work on week ends, so they have to take time off to join us on our regularly scheduled rides (which usually take place right after each meeting). The RTEs will be planned for mid-week to accommodate the week end workers.
Registration for STAR Days will open up on line February 2nd. I'll have to go shake the change jar to find out if I am camping or reserving a nice room. Either way, I am going...
It will be sunny and warm any day now...
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Christmas Potluck
We are planning our Christmas Potluck for December 9th at 6:00 PM.
I will send out an email with directions to the complex in Port Orchard where Greg has scheduled a room for us.
In addition to bringing a main or side dish, we are asking everyone to bring a White Elephant gift for exchange. It can be motorcycle related or not...preferably something that you no longer want or need.
Plan to be there...
I will send out an email with directions to the complex in Port Orchard where Greg has scheduled a room for us.
In addition to bringing a main or side dish, we are asking everyone to bring a White Elephant gift for exchange. It can be motorcycle related or not...preferably something that you no longer want or need.
Plan to be there...
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Veteran Appreciation
The following was sent to me from Pete and Suzanne:
Hi Richard, Will you pass this on to everybody.
We would like to see as many bikes and people as possible. Pete can meet everyone at the McDonald's in Port Orchard (Sedgwick Rd.) @ 12:00 or high noon as he said.
Please bring snacks for munching for the guys. Crackers, pop corn and such. Remember most of these guys are diabetes and don't need the sugar.
Personal item's will work too.
We will be meeting the other chapters at the Roy Y off of Hiway 512 @ 1:00 and going to the Veterans Soldiers Home in Orting.
Spend some time and let them see your bikes and just talk. That is what we are all about.
Please e-mail or call to let us know if anyone is going. If not, we might go over the night before. Pete and Suzanne
Hi Richard, Will you pass this on to everybody.
We would like to see as many bikes and people as possible. Pete can meet everyone at the McDonald's in Port Orchard (Sedgwick Rd.) @ 12:00 or high noon as he said.
Please bring snacks for munching for the guys. Crackers, pop corn and such. Remember most of these guys are diabetes and don't need the sugar.
Personal item's will work too.
We will be meeting the other chapters at the Roy Y off of Hiway 512 @ 1:00 and going to the Veterans Soldiers Home in Orting.
Spend some time and let them see your bikes and just talk. That is what we are all about.
Please e-mail or call to let us know if anyone is going. If not, we might go over the night before. Pete and Suzanne
Thursday, August 14, 2008
August update
It has been way too long since new information has been added to this blog, so I will try to get you updated.
Our August meeting is two days from now, and our scheduled ride is the Hood Canal Loop. I don’t know who the Road Captain will be or what the exact route will be, but I am looking forward to an awesome lunch somewhere.
I am hoping to have a guest at our meeting from the American Legion Riders to give us a rundown on the upcoming “Remembrance Run” that will take place on September 6th. The proceeds from this run will go to provide educational assistance for the many children having lost a parent as an unfortunate consequence of Operation Iraqi freedom and America’s war on terrorism.
Chapter 403 participated in the Whaling Days Parade last month, and we were joined by some of the American Legion Riders. It was my first ever attempt to ride the motorcycle slowly in formation, and it was almost painful. My clutch and brakes must have an additional month of wear on them from thirty five minutes of parading. However, it was an opportunity to join some of my motorcycling brothers and sisters in community support, so it was ultimately enjoyable.
The Northwest STAR-B-Q in Post Falls, Idaho on June 27 and 28 was definitely one for the memory books. The host chapter (Spokane, Chapter 174) did an excellent job planning and running this event, and it will be difficult to top in the future.
Some of our members helped out with the Don Blair Memorial Poker Run on August 3rd that was sponsored by Brothers Power Sports, and held to benefit the WMRRA Injured Riders Fund. The Blair Family put this event together, and they work hard to make it go each year (this was the fifth year).
I hope all of you are taking advantage of the summer weather to get out and ride. The price of fuel is still hovering around $4.00 a gallon, so it makes sense to ride when you can rather than drive.
Above all else, stay safe…
Our August meeting is two days from now, and our scheduled ride is the Hood Canal Loop. I don’t know who the Road Captain will be or what the exact route will be, but I am looking forward to an awesome lunch somewhere.
I am hoping to have a guest at our meeting from the American Legion Riders to give us a rundown on the upcoming “Remembrance Run” that will take place on September 6th. The proceeds from this run will go to provide educational assistance for the many children having lost a parent as an unfortunate consequence of Operation Iraqi freedom and America’s war on terrorism.
Chapter 403 participated in the Whaling Days Parade last month, and we were joined by some of the American Legion Riders. It was my first ever attempt to ride the motorcycle slowly in formation, and it was almost painful. My clutch and brakes must have an additional month of wear on them from thirty five minutes of parading. However, it was an opportunity to join some of my motorcycling brothers and sisters in community support, so it was ultimately enjoyable.
The Northwest STAR-B-Q in Post Falls, Idaho on June 27 and 28 was definitely one for the memory books. The host chapter (Spokane, Chapter 174) did an excellent job planning and running this event, and it will be difficult to top in the future.
Some of our members helped out with the Don Blair Memorial Poker Run on August 3rd that was sponsored by Brothers Power Sports, and held to benefit the WMRRA Injured Riders Fund. The Blair Family put this event together, and they work hard to make it go each year (this was the fifth year).
I hope all of you are taking advantage of the summer weather to get out and ride. The price of fuel is still hovering around $4.00 a gallon, so it makes sense to ride when you can rather than drive.
Above all else, stay safe…
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Training Accomplished
Our safety training workshop was well attended and well received. Greg Sandstrom, Chapter 403 Sergeant-at-Arms, did an excellent job facilitating the workshop and sharing a wealth of knowledge acquired during his time as a Motorcycle Officer for the WSP.
We discussed issues pertaining to safety when riding in a group, as well as individual maintenance responsibilities, and overall considerations for the Road Captain and Tail Gunner before and during a ride. Many of us expected nothing more than a review of material we should already know, but came away from the workshop with one or two new pieces of information (like hot pipes can ruin some fine rain gear...huh Blaine?) and a better understanding of the effort required to maintain a safe edge whenever we are enjoying a ride. I am confident that this type of gathering will take place more frequently than once a year, and it will help all of us improve the quality of our motorcycling experience.
Richard Lamphere (Chapter 403 Shepherd) was the driving force to make this workshop happen, and he went above and beyond the call to provide a clean and comfortable facility for us, as well as providing an excellent feed for everyone attending.
”Well Done” to both Greg and Richard for your work on behalf of your motorcycling family. Thanks!
Note: Almost half of our attendees came from outside the immediate Chapter 403 area, and we greatly appreciate their friendship and support.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Safety Training
Our Road captain/Tail Gunner/group Riding Safety Training will be held immediately following our regular monthly meeting on March 15th.
Our meeting will be held at the Brother's Power sports (as it usually is), and we will proceed to the training location as soon as the meeting is over.
Directions to the training site are being emailed to the distribution list for Chapter 403.
Our meeting will be held at the Brother's Power sports (as it usually is), and we will proceed to the training location as soon as the meeting is over.
Directions to the training site are being emailed to the distribution list for Chapter 403.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
February ride to 7 Cedars
I am just beginning to warm up after our ride to 7 Cedars Saturday. It was actually a beautiful day to be out and about, but a little nippy yet.
Of the eighteen members attending the February meeting, fourteen were able to join us on the ride. We stopped at the Hilltop 76 so a few of us could top off the gas tank, and then we continued on to the casino.
We decided to try the buffet because it was nearly empty, and it was easy for them to accommodate our group. Pete was very disappointed that they don’t offer a senior discount, but you can believe that he got his money’s worth.
If we were going to keep track, and list our favorite casino buffets and restaurants, this one would be on the list because it is next to a highway we will be seeing a lot of. The people are great and the food is okay, but I know some of us would prefer to stand in line at Little Creek. Just sayin’.
It was great to have Richard and Barb Gibson along with us. They are both very personable, and they jumped right into the conversation. Richard seems to be anxious to collect everyone’s thoughts about ways to improve our mutual experience with STAR Touring and Riding Association, and that reflects well on his position (he and Barb are the Washington State Directors for STAR Touring and Riding Association).
The ride home was a little warmer than the ride up there, but it was just a teaser folks. Another ten degrees and it will be perfect for me.
In the meantime, keep the shiny side up and be safe out there.
The safety class for March 15th is definitely on. I will send directions to everyone on distribution.
Of the eighteen members attending the February meeting, fourteen were able to join us on the ride. We stopped at the Hilltop 76 so a few of us could top off the gas tank, and then we continued on to the casino.
We decided to try the buffet because it was nearly empty, and it was easy for them to accommodate our group. Pete was very disappointed that they don’t offer a senior discount, but you can believe that he got his money’s worth.
If we were going to keep track, and list our favorite casino buffets and restaurants, this one would be on the list because it is next to a highway we will be seeing a lot of. The people are great and the food is okay, but I know some of us would prefer to stand in line at Little Creek. Just sayin’.
It was great to have Richard and Barb Gibson along with us. They are both very personable, and they jumped right into the conversation. Richard seems to be anxious to collect everyone’s thoughts about ways to improve our mutual experience with STAR Touring and Riding Association, and that reflects well on his position (he and Barb are the Washington State Directors for STAR Touring and Riding Association).
The ride home was a little warmer than the ride up there, but it was just a teaser folks. Another ten degrees and it will be perfect for me.
In the meantime, keep the shiny side up and be safe out there.
The safety class for March 15th is definitely on. I will send directions to everyone on distribution.
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Some of the STARs
Our first meeting of 2008 went very well. We had twenty-one attendees with two new faces present (Greg and Patti Cryder). Ron Swift (Chapter 350 President and charter member of our chapter) was also with us.
Dick Lamphere brought in a white board for the use of chapter members. It will initially reside next to the door into the main sales floor of the Brother’s Power Sports, but will eventually occupy space along the large wall on that end of the building that will be dedicated to chapter issues, members, and events. The STAR accessories that currently cover that wall space will be moved into a separate parts area, leaving a lot of wall space for recognition of STAR Touring and Riding Chapter 403.
The Road Captain/Tail Gunner/Safety Training Class has been tentatively scheduled for March 15th, which is our meeting day for that month. Dick Lamphere will finalize the arrangements for a space to hold the training, and location information will be posted in all the usual places. Pete mentioned that we will have attendees from other chapters, and has suggested that everyone in Chapter 403 attend. We will be space limited, so please get your name on the list as soon as possible.
The charter reading and signing for 2008 is now complete, and we have moved into our second year of existence. Our chapter resolution for this year is to be infinitely more organized than last year, and to increase the number of events that will attract new potential members.
Ten of us gathered at Jimmy D’s in Belfair for a late breakfast after the meeting. We are all anxious to welcome some warmer and drier weather, and look forward to a very active 2008 riding season.
Stay Safe…
Dick Lamphere brought in a white board for the use of chapter members. It will initially reside next to the door into the main sales floor of the Brother’s Power Sports, but will eventually occupy space along the large wall on that end of the building that will be dedicated to chapter issues, members, and events. The STAR accessories that currently cover that wall space will be moved into a separate parts area, leaving a lot of wall space for recognition of STAR Touring and Riding Chapter 403.
The Road Captain/Tail Gunner/Safety Training Class has been tentatively scheduled for March 15th, which is our meeting day for that month. Dick Lamphere will finalize the arrangements for a space to hold the training, and location information will be posted in all the usual places. Pete mentioned that we will have attendees from other chapters, and has suggested that everyone in Chapter 403 attend. We will be space limited, so please get your name on the list as soon as possible.
The charter reading and signing for 2008 is now complete, and we have moved into our second year of existence. Our chapter resolution for this year is to be infinitely more organized than last year, and to increase the number of events that will attract new potential members.
Ten of us gathered at Jimmy D’s in Belfair for a late breakfast after the meeting. We are all anxious to welcome some warmer and drier weather, and look forward to a very active 2008 riding season.
Stay Safe…
Thursday, January 17, 2008
2008
Our January meeting is quickly approaching (Saturday, January 19), and I still don’t have a ride picked out for this coming season. I know we have a committee that is supposed to put together a ride list because I am on it, but we have been very lax about getting together. I hope there are enough suggestions by meeting time to actually get a list firmed up.
We have a lot of chapter business to take care of as we move into the 2008 season. Ride waivers need to be filled out by all members (you need to provide proof of current insurance, show the endorsement on your driver’s license, and show your STAR membership card with an expiration date that hasn’t happened yet), our charter must be read and signed, and the ride list for the entire season must be submitted for approval.
The artwork for our chapter logo has to be fine tuned and submitted for approval, and we have to resolve the issue of a chapter web site (will we or won’t we). Our charity committee has some work to do planning and developing an event to raise awareness and funds for Camp SeaStar, and the vast amount of other unfinished business that has followed us from 2007 is crying out for attention.
We might not be the quickest chapter to get things done, but we always have something to look forward to. Our main objective is to enjoy our affiliation with each other, so let’s get after it with a smile and a positive outlook (and don’t make me keep repeating all this until next January).
We have a lot of chapter business to take care of as we move into the 2008 season. Ride waivers need to be filled out by all members (you need to provide proof of current insurance, show the endorsement on your driver’s license, and show your STAR membership card with an expiration date that hasn’t happened yet), our charter must be read and signed, and the ride list for the entire season must be submitted for approval.
The artwork for our chapter logo has to be fine tuned and submitted for approval, and we have to resolve the issue of a chapter web site (will we or won’t we). Our charity committee has some work to do planning and developing an event to raise awareness and funds for Camp SeaStar, and the vast amount of other unfinished business that has followed us from 2007 is crying out for attention.
We might not be the quickest chapter to get things done, but we always have something to look forward to. Our main objective is to enjoy our affiliation with each other, so let’s get after it with a smile and a positive outlook (and don’t make me keep repeating all this until next January).
Thursday, December 13, 2007
'Tis the season
The November meeting minutes were finally sent out to distribution yesterday. Thank you, Sue for getting them put together.
The December meeting / Christmas gathering will take place this coming Saturday (December 15th) at the home of Cindy Giese. Starting time is 6:00 PM, and directions were included in the minutes sent out yesterday.
This will be a pot luck event and b.y.o.b., so bring your favorite dish, a white elephant gift valued at twenty dollars or less, whatever you plan to drink, and a holiday attitude.
We have some things on the meeting agenda that have to get done. Your suggestions for the 2008 ride schedule will be collected so we can get that finalized and turned in to the STAR Touring and Riding Association Headquarters.
We also have a vote on the by-laws, and a vote for President and Vice-President.
January will be the beginning of our second year as an official chapter, and we all look forward to working out the kinks and watching our membership grow.
Have a great Christmas and New Year celebration.
Stay safe..
The December meeting / Christmas gathering will take place this coming Saturday (December 15th) at the home of Cindy Giese. Starting time is 6:00 PM, and directions were included in the minutes sent out yesterday.
This will be a pot luck event and b.y.o.b., so bring your favorite dish, a white elephant gift valued at twenty dollars or less, whatever you plan to drink, and a holiday attitude.
We have some things on the meeting agenda that have to get done. Your suggestions for the 2008 ride schedule will be collected so we can get that finalized and turned in to the STAR Touring and Riding Association Headquarters.
We also have a vote on the by-laws, and a vote for President and Vice-President.
January will be the beginning of our second year as an official chapter, and we all look forward to working out the kinks and watching our membership grow.
Have a great Christmas and New Year celebration.
Stay safe..
Sunday, October 28, 2007
October update
Like most of you, my focus has been extremely scattered this past month. With the days getting shorter, it seems like I am trying to squeeze more agenda items into that diminishing block of time between sunrise and darkness. Needless to say, I am not getting as much done as I would like.
We carried a lot of action items from the September meeting all the way through to the October meeting, so we have a lot on our plate to finish out the year.
Our January meeting will mark the beginning of our second year of existence as a Chapter, and it has been a great start. We have participated in some memorable events and rubbed elbows with some new friends and acquaintances over the past year, and the agenda for 2008 promises to be even better.
On November 17th, the day our next regular meeting is scheduled, there will be a”Feed the Children” food drop at the White Center Food Bank. Our Chapter will meet up at the Kitsap Bank / Port Orchard Marina parking lot at 7:00 am, and then ride to the Southworth Ferry to catch the 7:40 boat to Fauntleroy. We will have our Chapter Meeting during the crossing, and then ride to Renton Motor Sports where we will form up with all the other participating chapters to escort the truck to White Center. This is one of the reasons we ride as members of STAR Touring and Riding Association, and I am looking forward to participating in this event.
We are in the process of considering nominations for our 2008 Chapter Officers, and have put together a nominating committee which will meet this week to offer a list of members’ names. Of course, any member can offer a nomination, so I encourage everyone to participate. (Update: We did meet, and I will send out a brief description of our discussion.)
If you have any warm blankets, sleeping bags, or coats/jackets/sweaters that you are no longer using, please drop them off with Cindy at the Brother’s Power Sports in Bremerton. Cindy is involved in feeding the homeless, and your donations will be greatly appreciated.
Much more to come.
Ride safely.
We carried a lot of action items from the September meeting all the way through to the October meeting, so we have a lot on our plate to finish out the year.
Our January meeting will mark the beginning of our second year of existence as a Chapter, and it has been a great start. We have participated in some memorable events and rubbed elbows with some new friends and acquaintances over the past year, and the agenda for 2008 promises to be even better.
On November 17th, the day our next regular meeting is scheduled, there will be a”Feed the Children” food drop at the White Center Food Bank. Our Chapter will meet up at the Kitsap Bank / Port Orchard Marina parking lot at 7:00 am, and then ride to the Southworth Ferry to catch the 7:40 boat to Fauntleroy. We will have our Chapter Meeting during the crossing, and then ride to Renton Motor Sports where we will form up with all the other participating chapters to escort the truck to White Center. This is one of the reasons we ride as members of STAR Touring and Riding Association, and I am looking forward to participating in this event.
We are in the process of considering nominations for our 2008 Chapter Officers, and have put together a nominating committee which will meet this week to offer a list of members’ names. Of course, any member can offer a nomination, so I encourage everyone to participate. (Update: We did meet, and I will send out a brief description of our discussion.)
If you have any warm blankets, sleeping bags, or coats/jackets/sweaters that you are no longer using, please drop them off with Cindy at the Brother’s Power Sports in Bremerton. Cindy is involved in feeding the homeless, and your donations will be greatly appreciated.
Much more to come.
Ride safely.
Saturday, September 15, 2007
September Ride
Our original ride was supposed to be to Hurricane Ridge, but Pete mentioned that the low clouds would likely obstruct any view we hoped to enjoy…so, after a brief discussion, we decided to have Jim Johnson lead us on the Purdy Canyon ride which had been previously abandoned due to weather.
Greg Sandstrom, Doug Mountjoy, Pete and Sue Inman, Dan Foy, Jeff and Anita Loehmer, “Dez” Deshotel, Richard Huff, and Dick Lamphere joined Jim Johnson for a total of nine motorcycles.
We rode along the canal as far as the Skokomish River, and then followed the river up to Highway 101 then past Shelton to the Little Creek Casino. We committed ourselves to the luncheon buffet, which was much better than “very good”.
From the casino, we rode to Allyn where we stopped to see Roy and Kris at “Twisted Angel Biker Wear”. They let us know that their winter hours will be week ends only, and they hope to be busy every week end until they get back to normal hours in the spring. They usually have a pot of coffee on, so plan to stop by when you are in their neighborhood.
A few of us stopped at Starbucks in Belfair, and the rest scattered for home. It was a good day to ride, and a great group to do it with.
Greg Sandstrom, Doug Mountjoy, Pete and Sue Inman, Dan Foy, Jeff and Anita Loehmer, “Dez” Deshotel, Richard Huff, and Dick Lamphere joined Jim Johnson for a total of nine motorcycles.
We rode along the canal as far as the Skokomish River, and then followed the river up to Highway 101 then past Shelton to the Little Creek Casino. We committed ourselves to the luncheon buffet, which was much better than “very good”.
From the casino, we rode to Allyn where we stopped to see Roy and Kris at “Twisted Angel Biker Wear”. They let us know that their winter hours will be week ends only, and they hope to be busy every week end until they get back to normal hours in the spring. They usually have a pot of coffee on, so plan to stop by when you are in their neighborhood.
A few of us stopped at Starbucks in Belfair, and the rest scattered for home. It was a good day to ride, and a great group to do it with.
Safety Training
Safety training scheduled for Sunday, September 16th has been cancelled, and will be rescheduled.
Monday, September 10, 2007
Update 9/10
Pete, Lonnie, Doug, and I got together for a social lunch at The Corner Deli in downtown Port Orchard today, and we had a free-for-all discussion regarding a number of topics that pertain to all of us (and you).
Our September Meeting will be this coming Saturday (9:00 AM at The Brother’s Power Sports in Bremerton) with a scheduled ride to Hurricane Ridge directly following the meeting. We have also planned to stop at the Seven Cedars Casino for a late lunch on the way back. Note: There is probably a fee to ride into the park on our way to Hurricane Ridge. I will check into that, and post a comment on the Yahoo Group.
On Sunday, September 16th we will convene on Pete and Sue’s place near Port Townsend for a 12:30 PM training session that we encourage everyone to attend. This gathering will address Road Captain, Tail Gunner, and Group Riding issues that will emphasize SAFETY. We will also have an opportunity to consume some groceries and visit with our remarkable co-members of Chapter 403.
The Port Orchard contingent will meet at, and leave from the Marina parking area. We will pull out at 11:00 AM Sunday morning to ride to Pete and Sue’s.
Please let us know if you plan to attend, so lunch can be properly planned.
We are already making plans for the ride to Post Falls, Idaho next June. If you plan to attend the NW Star-B-Q 2008, make sure you are part of the conversation now (when it counts).
There will be a State-wide meet-up of Star Touring and Riding members at Soap Lake next summer that promises to be great fun. It won’t be elaborately structured with side events or rides, but it will be an opportunity to rub elbows with some good folks we don’t bump into very frequently. Hey…it is a ride somewhere and back, and that is always a good thing.
Be safe out there...
Our September Meeting will be this coming Saturday (9:00 AM at The Brother’s Power Sports in Bremerton) with a scheduled ride to Hurricane Ridge directly following the meeting. We have also planned to stop at the Seven Cedars Casino for a late lunch on the way back. Note: There is probably a fee to ride into the park on our way to Hurricane Ridge. I will check into that, and post a comment on the Yahoo Group.
On Sunday, September 16th we will convene on Pete and Sue’s place near Port Townsend for a 12:30 PM training session that we encourage everyone to attend. This gathering will address Road Captain, Tail Gunner, and Group Riding issues that will emphasize SAFETY. We will also have an opportunity to consume some groceries and visit with our remarkable co-members of Chapter 403.
The Port Orchard contingent will meet at, and leave from the Marina parking area. We will pull out at 11:00 AM Sunday morning to ride to Pete and Sue’s.
Please let us know if you plan to attend, so lunch can be properly planned.
We are already making plans for the ride to Post Falls, Idaho next June. If you plan to attend the NW Star-B-Q 2008, make sure you are part of the conversation now (when it counts).
There will be a State-wide meet-up of Star Touring and Riding members at Soap Lake next summer that promises to be great fun. It won’t be elaborately structured with side events or rides, but it will be an opportunity to rub elbows with some good folks we don’t bump into very frequently. Hey…it is a ride somewhere and back, and that is always a good thing.
Be safe out there...
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
The Ride was fantastic
Our schedule was extended by about four hours with numerous extra stops, but the ride was as good as any we have had as a group.
We took the Kingston ferry to Edmonds, stopped in Leavenworth to wait for the straggler (Blaine Inman), had lunch in Cashmere at Rusty's Drive-in, wandered around Roslyn for an hour, and beat ourselves silly from there to highway 18. The I-90 portion of the trip was the least pleasant (especially the grooved pavement part) because the view goes by too quickly at 70 miles per hour, but that didn't detract from the rest of the trip.
I have a few pics that will get posted on our Yahoo Group, but my camera needs a tune-up, so I didn't get as many good photos as I would have liked. There were more cameras this trip, so perhaps some of those pics will get posted also.
For those who weren't able to participate in this ride, I highly recommend it. I know it will show up on the schedule next year, so plan to be there.
Thanks to everyone who did show up.
Monday, August 13, 2007
The Ride is on
The weather should be perfect for our three pass ride this coming Saturday, so get your grin on.
The Port Orchard riders will be meeting at Brother’s around 7:00 AM or so, and the plan is to leave from there for the Kingston ferry dock by 7:15 AM.
We will meet at the ferry dock at 8:00 AM to ensure that we all make it on board the 8:35 AM departure for Edmonds. If anyone is planning to accompany the group in a vehicle rather than motorcycle, let us know ahead of time so we keep you informed regarding scheduled stops.
Using our arrival at Kingston at 8:00 AM as the starting point, we will cover approximately 290 riding miles in about eight and a half hours (including two one hour stops). Leavenworth will show up on the highway at 11:15 AM or so, and that will probably be our first major stop. The next major stop will be North Bend at somewhere around 2:00 PM. At that point, we will have about 220 riding miles behind us. North Bend to Port Orchard is about 70 miles, so the last leg won’t be too rough.
Make sure you bring sun glasses for that last stretch in case we hit I-90 later than I expect. The setting sun can be brutal going west. Bring money for the 50/50 also.
Pete and I are hoping that someone (Bill Culbertson or Doug Mountjoy) will show up that can guide us through Edmonds to Monroe without using too much freeway. There will be about 50 miles of I-90 that we can’t avoid.
Comments, questions and suggestions are encouraged over at the Yahoo Group.
The Port Orchard riders will be meeting at Brother’s around 7:00 AM or so, and the plan is to leave from there for the Kingston ferry dock by 7:15 AM.
We will meet at the ferry dock at 8:00 AM to ensure that we all make it on board the 8:35 AM departure for Edmonds. If anyone is planning to accompany the group in a vehicle rather than motorcycle, let us know ahead of time so we keep you informed regarding scheduled stops.
Using our arrival at Kingston at 8:00 AM as the starting point, we will cover approximately 290 riding miles in about eight and a half hours (including two one hour stops). Leavenworth will show up on the highway at 11:15 AM or so, and that will probably be our first major stop. The next major stop will be North Bend at somewhere around 2:00 PM. At that point, we will have about 220 riding miles behind us. North Bend to Port Orchard is about 70 miles, so the last leg won’t be too rough.
Make sure you bring sun glasses for that last stretch in case we hit I-90 later than I expect. The setting sun can be brutal going west. Bring money for the 50/50 also.
Pete and I are hoping that someone (Bill Culbertson or Doug Mountjoy) will show up that can guide us through Edmonds to Monroe without using too much freeway. There will be about 50 miles of I-90 that we can’t avoid.
Comments, questions and suggestions are encouraged over at the Yahoo Group.
Wednesday, August 8, 2007
Wisdom shared by Sue
I spent some time going through my pictures this morning (everything related to Star Touring and Riding), and it came to mind that Pete, Sue, John, Lonnie, and Marty spend a lot of time riding to where ever we are going to meet up...so they can ride some more...with us. I know they all enjoy riding as much as anyone, but they also have busy lives outside our club.
I just got an email from Sue that put it all in perspective for me:
A MAYONNAISE JAR AND 2 CUPS OF COFFEE
When things in your life seem almost too much too
handle, when 24 hours in a day are not enough,
remember the mayonnaise jar and the 2 cups of coffee.
A professor stood before his philosophy class and had
some items in front of him.
When the class began, wordlessly, he picked up a very
large and empty mayonnaise jar and proceeded to fill
it with golf balls. He then asked the students if the
jar was full. They agreed that it was.
The professor then picked up a box of pebbles and
poured them into the jar. He shook the jar lightly.
The pebbles rolled into the open areas between the
golf balls. He then asked the students again if the
jar was full they agreed it was.
The professor next picked up a box of sand and poured
i t into the jar . Of course, the sand filled up
everything else. He asked once more if the jar was
full. The students responded with a unanimous "yes."
The professor then produced two cups of coffee from
under the table and poured the entire contents into
the jar, effectively filling the empty space between
the sand. The students laughed.
"Now," said the professor, as the laughter subsided,
"I want you to recognize that this jar represents
your life. The golf balls are the important things-
your God, family, your children, your health, your
friends, and your favorite passions--things that if
everything else was lost and only they remained your
life would still be full.
The pebbles are the other things that matter like your
job, your house, and your car.
The sand is everything else -- the small stuff.
If you put the sand into the jar first," he continued,
"there is no room for the pebbles or the golf balls.
The same goes for life. If you spend all your time
and energy on the small stuff, you will never have
room for the things that are important to you.
Pay attention to the things that are critical to your
happiness. Play with your children. Take time to get
medical checkups. Take your partner out to dinner.
Play another 18. There will always be time to clean
the house and fix the disposal."
Take care of the golf balls first -- the things that
really matter. Set your priorities. The rest is just
sand."
One of the students raised her hand and inquired what
the coffee represented.
The professor smiled. "I'm glad you asked. It just
goes to show you that no matter how full your life may
seem, there's always room for a couple of cups of
coffee with a friend."
Please share this with someone you care about.
I JUST DID
I just got an email from Sue that put it all in perspective for me:
A MAYONNAISE JAR AND 2 CUPS OF COFFEE
When things in your life seem almost too much too
handle, when 24 hours in a day are not enough,
remember the mayonnaise jar and the 2 cups of coffee.
A professor stood before his philosophy class and had
some items in front of him.
When the class began, wordlessly, he picked up a very
large and empty mayonnaise jar and proceeded to fill
it with golf balls. He then asked the students if the
jar was full. They agreed that it was.
The professor then picked up a box of pebbles and
poured them into the jar. He shook the jar lightly.
The pebbles rolled into the open areas between the
golf balls. He then asked the students again if the
jar was full they agreed it was.
The professor next picked up a box of sand and poured
i t into the jar . Of course, the sand filled up
everything else. He asked once more if the jar was
full. The students responded with a unanimous "yes."
The professor then produced two cups of coffee from
under the table and poured the entire contents into
the jar, effectively filling the empty space between
the sand. The students laughed.
"Now," said the professor, as the laughter subsided,
"I want you to recognize that this jar represents
your life. The golf balls are the important things-
your God, family, your children, your health, your
friends, and your favorite passions--things that if
everything else was lost and only they remained your
life would still be full.
The pebbles are the other things that matter like your
job, your house, and your car.
The sand is everything else -- the small stuff.
If you put the sand into the jar first," he continued,
"there is no room for the pebbles or the golf balls.
The same goes for life. If you spend all your time
and energy on the small stuff, you will never have
room for the things that are important to you.
Pay attention to the things that are critical to your
happiness. Play with your children. Take time to get
medical checkups. Take your partner out to dinner.
Play another 18. There will always be time to clean
the house and fix the disposal."
Take care of the golf balls first -- the things that
really matter. Set your priorities. The rest is just
sand."
One of the students raised her hand and inquired what
the coffee represented.
The professor smiled. "I'm glad you asked. It just
goes to show you that no matter how full your life may
seem, there's always room for a couple of cups of
coffee with a friend."
Please share this with someone you care about.
I JUST DID
Sunday, August 5, 2007
STAR-B-Q Update
I don’t know what anyone else thought about the NW STAR-B-Q at Little Creek Casino, but this was my first one…and I really enjoyed myself. I took a lot of pictures that will get posted on our Yahoo Group, and I took a lot of pictures that won’t get posted there because some didn’t turn out (some did, but they have to await the censor’s rating).
The vendors brought a lot of Star accessories and apparel for the happy bikers to spend their money on, and I certainly spent my share. The Brother’s Power Sports marked everything down 50%, and that allowed me to get in touch with my inner female side (just can’t pass up a fifty percent sale). I picked up a couple items that would have been out of my normal budget range, so I was able to support the STAR-B-Q event, kick in for the Autism Society of Washington (the NW STAR-B-Q featured charity), and indulge myself with some new goodies for my bike on a limited amount of cash. It was all good.
My overall impression of this entire experience is that it was well worth the time and effort to attend. The Little Creek Casino continues to be one of my favorites (location and food), and they gave us a lot of room to be who we are.
I always enjoy the company of our 403 members, and it was great to finally meet the gal that rides that cool chopper (Jan). We got to mingle with Star Touring and Riding Association members from all over the Northwest, and there wasn’t an unfriendly face in the lot of them.
We already have the flier for the 2008 NW STAR-B-Q to be held on June 27-28 in Post Falls, Idaho, so I am working on a new budget for that event. Star Touring and Riding, Spokane Chapter 174 will be our hosts, so mark your calendars.
The vendors brought a lot of Star accessories and apparel for the happy bikers to spend their money on, and I certainly spent my share. The Brother’s Power Sports marked everything down 50%, and that allowed me to get in touch with my inner female side (just can’t pass up a fifty percent sale). I picked up a couple items that would have been out of my normal budget range, so I was able to support the STAR-B-Q event, kick in for the Autism Society of Washington (the NW STAR-B-Q featured charity), and indulge myself with some new goodies for my bike on a limited amount of cash. It was all good.
My overall impression of this entire experience is that it was well worth the time and effort to attend. The Little Creek Casino continues to be one of my favorites (location and food), and they gave us a lot of room to be who we are.
I always enjoy the company of our 403 members, and it was great to finally meet the gal that rides that cool chopper (Jan). We got to mingle with Star Touring and Riding Association members from all over the Northwest, and there wasn’t an unfriendly face in the lot of them.
We already have the flier for the 2008 NW STAR-B-Q to be held on June 27-28 in Post Falls, Idaho, so I am working on a new budget for that event. Star Touring and Riding, Spokane Chapter 174 will be our hosts, so mark your calendars.
Saturday, July 21, 2007
Meeting update
We had an excellent gathering this morning, and actually made some headway on Chapter Business. I have a couple items to verify for the minutes, and they will be on the way to the distribution list.
We voted in three new Chapter Members (Dana, Lon, and Dan), and welcomed two new meeting attendees whom we hope will enjoy our company as much as we enjoy ourselves. It is always exciting to bring new members into the group, and we expect to see more as the word gets out during our first year as an official STAR Chapter.
We have set aside the Cape Flattery ride to once again attempt the Three Pass Ride. Instead of a regular meeting on August 18th, we will be meeting at the Kingston Ferry Terminal at 8:00 AM to begin the ride, and we will have a brief official meeting enroute to Edmonds. This promises to be an awesome ride, so make plans to participate. Maybe the weather will cooperate this time. More discussion will take place on the Yahoo Group (link is on the sidebar), so throw your two cents in.
Our after meeting ride turned out well. We made it to Belfair without any rain, but it looked mighty dark the direction we were headed...so, we went to Jimmy D's for breakfast, and Greg took us for a pleasant ride out to the end of Key Peninsula. The ride Jim Johnson started us on (Purdy Canyon) is one I would still like to do, so we can make it a lunch run to either Shelton or the Little Creek...keep it in mind.
Next week end is the Ocean Shores Sun and Surf event. It is too late to pre-register, but you can register at the Ocean Shores Convention Center on Thursday or Friday. If you are interested in checking it out, go to the website here.
I am looking forward to the NorthWest STAR-B-Q...
Stay safe, and let us know what is on your mind at the Yahoo Group.
We voted in three new Chapter Members (Dana, Lon, and Dan), and welcomed two new meeting attendees whom we hope will enjoy our company as much as we enjoy ourselves. It is always exciting to bring new members into the group, and we expect to see more as the word gets out during our first year as an official STAR Chapter.
We have set aside the Cape Flattery ride to once again attempt the Three Pass Ride. Instead of a regular meeting on August 18th, we will be meeting at the Kingston Ferry Terminal at 8:00 AM to begin the ride, and we will have a brief official meeting enroute to Edmonds. This promises to be an awesome ride, so make plans to participate. Maybe the weather will cooperate this time. More discussion will take place on the Yahoo Group (link is on the sidebar), so throw your two cents in.
Our after meeting ride turned out well. We made it to Belfair without any rain, but it looked mighty dark the direction we were headed...so, we went to Jimmy D's for breakfast, and Greg took us for a pleasant ride out to the end of Key Peninsula. The ride Jim Johnson started us on (Purdy Canyon) is one I would still like to do, so we can make it a lunch run to either Shelton or the Little Creek...keep it in mind.
Next week end is the Ocean Shores Sun and Surf event. It is too late to pre-register, but you can register at the Ocean Shores Convention Center on Thursday or Friday. If you are interested in checking it out, go to the website here.
I am looking forward to the NorthWest STAR-B-Q...
Stay safe, and let us know what is on your mind at the Yahoo Group.
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