December Chapter Ride - Mt Helix (Rain Out)

Eleven Chapter rides with no cancellation for rain, until now.  After watching the weather for two days and into the evening I hoped that the rain would clear but in the end there was a 30% chance of rain, and I had to cancel the ride – but although the ride was cancelled, we still had chapter business to do, so a meeting and the prospect of breakfast still got over 30 members to show.  

They started pulling in a few at a time by cars, trucks, and by bikes, braving the southern California freeways in the rain.  Once everyone was assembled and some raffle tickets and 50/50 tickets were sold we started our meeting.  I began by telling everyone where we were supposed to ride and where we were supposed to get lunch – but also it really was a great route and that we would post-pone the Mt Helix ride to February.  

We had a record number of birthdays in December (Susan Palaoro, Rick Sanecki, Dan Dobler, Cindy Reeves, Mike Fry, and Daveta Jo Gallager) and had a rousing rendition of Happy Birthday sung to the group. 

Three rockers were presented – Mike Fry and Larry Barton were given Tail Gunner rockers, congrats guys. Brian Hefter was presented an 8,000 mile rocker (little mix up from the holiday party). Congrats to you all!!

We had four items to raffle, they were won by Richard Von Luft (twice), Bill Gilmore, and Patty Giambitti. We joked a bunch about how Taz (Richard Green) has won the 50/50 countless times (7 out of 11) and then we made Terry Bishop pull the ticket to ensure a proper winner and we were all shocked to see Taz had won yet again!  Next year we only sell him old tickets lol  Congratulations to all our winners.

Once all the business was done we moved on to the important activity of the day – our Elections.  Ken Indorf explained the rules (the colored marbles and who was eligible to vote, etc.) and then we were off, each of us reaching into Ken’s bag to select a marble and then depositing it into the smaller bag held by Terry Bishop.  Once we had all voted, Terry reached into the bag and pulled out the handful of marbles and Ken declared it a unanimous decision – Chuck and I are in for another year.

The meeting was called and a group of about 25 adjourned to Denny’s for breakfast…. 

I would like to extend a big thanks to all of Chapter 230 for having faith in me to lead you once again through 2013.  Next year is going to be great!!!

November Chapter Ride - Fundraiser

Our November Chapter ride would be rather short – a whole 50 miles tops – but it was a one way ride to our Chapter Fundraiser for the Orange Senior Center so it would be a great ride.  We would be short a few of our regular riders as they are part of a group that takes a yearly ride to Death Valley.  More and more of our members are joining this annual ride and I am thinking this must be a pretty good one – maybe we should put this as a destination for one of our chapter overnighters next year.   

We gathered at our usual place with a nice turn out.  We were joined by members of 415 (thanks Frank, Jim, Diane and Mark).  After the usual meeting info, we divided into two groups with Dan and myself leading.  We left going up the 57, exiting on Lambert and making our way through the twisties of Carbon Canyon – always a nice ride!  We arrived at Chaparral 300 ready for a fun day.  Chaparral 300 is a rather new bowling alley with a large sports bar with a dozen pool tables, regulation darts, shuffle board and of course a mechanical bull.  Many expressed interest in riding the mechanical bull, but no one stepped forward lol.  We were joined at the lanes by a nice group of guests from the Orange Senior Center, Tom Maldonado the director, his lovely wife Lydia and several others.  

Some of the group decided to play pool, some played darts, some bowled and some just mingled.  I felt really sorry for the guy behind the bowling desk – you know how they swap you one good shoe for your bowling shoes?  Well apparently the little cubbies don’t really accommodate biker boots – so he had a line up of every boot across the top of his area.  

We all took a break from the activities to eat – a great spread of taquitos, chicken strips, chicken wings and pizza – no healthy food here!  I love bowling alley food.  Once we were all fed we got down to the business at hand – the raffle.  In total we raffled off about 25 items with the biggest being a saddleman t-bag and a Nikko helmet.  Our 50/50 was won by Mark Tuttle of 415 – congrats to all our winners!  

At the end of the event we presented a check for $750 to Tom Maldonado, the director of the Orange Senior Center.

A perfect day – great fun!  Thanks to all who attended and made it a success.

Pismo Beach Overnighter

Last year a group of us took a little overnighter to Pismo Beach and came back with great stories of riding and wineries and outlet malls….Everyone who didn’t go said “we have to do that next year”.  And so the Annual Overnighter to Pismo Beach was born.  So this year we did it again – and just about everyone came!  

We gathered at Starbucks on Friday morning – 33 riders, 6 trailers, and 2 cars would make the trip in the end.  We started with 21 bikes in two groups with Brian Hefter leading group 1 and Gary Felkel leading group 2.  I opted to tail gun – using my knee as an excuse – ok I love to tail gun and I wanted to give other riders the opportunity to lead.  We were followed by Mike Fry’s wife Vicki who was riding in one car, and Gail Indorf, Marie de Putron and Daveta Jo Gallagher, rode up in Gail’s car.  We made our way up the 57 to the 210 to the 134 to the 101 – just getting out of town in time.  

We stopped for gas and then lunch at Chilis in Newbury Park.  They had been warned that we were coming by Patty Giambitti, so they were ready for us and got us seated right away.  Lunch was great!  It also gave us an opportunity to shed a layer as the day was warming up just right.  After lunch we made out way up the 101 to the 154 and took a nice scenic ride.  

Back onto the 101 and up to Pismo Beach.  The hotel was just as it had been last year and after we all got checked in we went over to the Winery and relaxed.  They have a nice selection of wine on their tasting menu - $10 bucks for 6 tastings.  Not bad!  I think we overwhelmed her though – about 20 of us went over lol.

Back at the hotel we all pulled out our folding chairs (everyone is pretty prepared these days) and took over a few parking spaces.  The evening was nice and we all had a great time chatting and relaxing.  Eventually we got hungry though and decided to try the Mexican Restaurant again that we tried last year.  I don’t think the staff was expecting us – at least 25 of us converged on them.  They actually did a really great job serving us and the food was much better than last year.  

Fed and tired we all returned to our chairs in the parking lot and relaxed for a little bit longer.  We were joined by Tom Schamber, who had ridden up after a work event, and Carol and Charlie Wolfe had ridden just a bit behind us. We were happy to see a small group of six from Chapter 109 had also made the trip and were staying with us.  We always have a great time with them, and they joined in like family.  By this time our group had grown to 39 – wow!

Saturday we all got up with a group going over to Huckleberry’s for breakfast and a group braving the free breakfast at the hotel.  I heard a rumor that the eggs came from robotic chickens but that was just a rumor.  Huckleberry’s was good and although some complained of cold breakfast mine was steaming and really great!  After breakfast we all gathered with one group taking “Brian’s Ride” up past the James Dean memorial, a couple going to Big Sur, another group going to Monterey and another group riding to Cambria.  

Brian’s ride was great – even though his GPS gave out and I had to lead – with all the road in reverse – well you would have to have seen it to understand.  We could not have asked for better weather, just a little on the cool side.  We rode on some of the most amazing roads – lots of critters.  At one point a very large Turkey Vulture swooped down and made a quick u-turn right in front of me – missing me by about a foot maybe.  Scared me to death.  His wing span was about 6 feet wide.  

Our ride took us to Parkfield California, the home of the USGS and the place where the Pacific and North American tectonic plates meet.  We had lunch at the Parkfield Café.  Really neat place – log cabin construction.  Most of the group had the tri-tip sandwich.  We were all expecting some shaved beef – no, each sandwich had two pieces of steak on them – so good!  After lunch we continued on down the road where the most earthquake activity had occurred with lots of movement to the pavement.  

As we rode I had to slow down suddenly when I thought I saw a calf on the road, only to get closer and see it was one huge dog (a bull mastiff, 120 -150 lbs.).  Lucky for us he just wanted to watch us go by and didn’t try to chase the bikes.    

The James Dean memorial is a tree with a metal angular structure around it, a few pebbles and some large plaques.  I understand that the actual place where his accident occurred was at the intersection we had just ridden through about 100 yards away from the location.  It wasn’t until we walked around the tree did we see the watch for rattlesnake signs – luck for us none were spotted.  After the memorial we made our way back to the hotel.  

Everyone cleaned up and we were off to dinner at AJ Spurs.  Some chose to ride and a group also chose to walk the 1.8 miles to the restaurant.  This is our third time at an AJ Spurs and they did not disappoint.  We were seated almost immediately in their banquet room.  We were also joined by the riders from 109 – so glad they were there with us.  The food was so good and we were all stuffed when we left there.  I have to tell you the service there was really awesome.  They were nice enough to do separate checks for us and I didn’t hear of a single issue.  

We all returned to the hotel and hung out for a bit, but the most of the group turned in early.  I know I slept well that night.

Sunday we all got up and started packing it up for the ride home.  At about 7:30 some of us went back over to Huckleberry’s and a few decided to eat at the hotel.  Once we were all fed we all met back at the hotel and lined up to start the ride home.  We were now 23 bikes and 6 trailers in two groups.  We headed down the 101 to the 166.  I would swear that Scott Hamilton and Ken Indorf have ridden every road in California, but I was surprised to learn neither had been down the 166.  This is a really great road with some beautiful views and nice twisties. It is one that I would ride again if given the chance.  

We stopped for gas in Maricopa.  This gas station is memorable because it backs up to a house with a dozen dogs and cats that run free and usually come up to the gas station to take advantage of suckers like us who will give them snacks.  I was surprised that Barb Sanecki didn’t “accidently” take one of the puppies home with her – she was in love with the little guy and was trying to figure out how to get him in their bag to make the trip home.  

Back on the road we made our way down to the 5 and into the heat.  All weekend it had been a nice 60 – 70 degrees – then there we were in 90 degrees.  We stopped at our last gas stop in Valencia and were quick to take off any layers we could to cool down.  

At the gas stop in Valencia I called the ride and thanked everyone for joining us.  This was again a great trip and I have already been asked “we are doing this again next year aren’t we?”  So I guess we will see.  A few decided to press on home, but a large group of us decided to get lunch at Marie Callendar’s before heading on.   The manager at this Marie’s just seems to love us and remembers us each time we pass through there.  He set us up almost immediately at a large table in the bar and as usual the service was great.  Once we all were full and hydrated we made the last leg of the journey home.

Thanks again to all who came with us – really a great time!!!

OSC Poker Run

A small group of us gathered at Starbucks on our way to the Orange Senior Center and their annual Poker Run.  Usually we have a pretty good turnout for this ride, but I am guessing the current price of gas really kept some people away.  Myself, Susan Palaoro, Chuck and Patty Giambitti, Richard “Taz” Green, William Fields, Daveta Jo Gallager, and Brian Hefter, were joined by Don “Doc” Thomas and Andy and Michele Koller (these three are long time members of 230 who have not ridden with us in a while).  Once everyone arrived we headed off to the Senior Center, down Chapman to Olive.

This year’s Poker Run had a lot more vendors, a lot more big ticket prizes and much better food.  We all started out with muffins and coffee (water and soda too) when we got there and a quick look through the vendors that had already started to setup.  Raffle tickets were purchased and everyone took time to drop their tickets into the bags for each of the raffle prizes.  This year the big raffle prize was a 42” Flat Screen, and the 50/50 winner received a $300 gift certificate to Harley.  Lots of bags from Saddleman and some gift baskets.  There was also a party at Hooters for 10 people – lots of tickets in that bag. 

We all registered and pulled our first cards – always hopeful.  Normally we would have sped out of there as quickly as possible, but the first stop (LA Harley of Anaheim) was not going to be open until 10am, so we took our time and left about 9:45.  We were joined by a couple on a Suzuki scooter with a trike conversion for this leg of the ride – it was interesting but I think one trip on the freeway with us was more than enough for them.

The route took us out Chapman, up the 5 north, and off at Brookhurst.  We made a couple of turns and ended up on Orangethorpe and a quick left into the dealership.  Here we found donuts and more coffee, this made it difficult to get certain members of our group moving.  Once everyone had pulled their cards we were off back down Orangethorpe and out the 57 to Lifestyles. Amazingly there were MORE donuts and coffee there too.  More cards were pulled and we all got on our bikes to go.  Unfortunately, William had issues with his bike – dying battery, so he and Daveta Jo took a detour to her house to pick up a car and leave the bike behind.  They caught up with us back at the Senior Center later.  So the rest of us continued on, up the 57n to Lambert and a nice trip down Carbon Canyon.  If I haven’t mentioned it, the weather was beautiful, clear, and not too hot.  It made the ride down Carbon Canyon really enjoyable.  We jumped on the 71 in Chino Hills, then down to the 91 and off at Yorba Linda for our fourth card pull at Weir Canyon Honda.  The parking there was a little crazy, so we didn’t hang out there long (maybe as there were no donuts at this stop lol).  Off we went back down onto Yorba Linda and out to Anaheim Hills.  This ride was a really nice change from the freeway.  Some nice sweeping turns and hills.  A right onto Chapman took us back down and through to the Senior Center. 

We all pulled our last cards and then raced for lunch.  This year’s lunch was really nice.  The Food Ministry provided Hot Dogs, Brisket, Pulled Pork, beans, rice, salad, and more.  The afternoon was spent waiting for the raffle tickets to get pulled.  In the end, Patty won a gift basket from Storage Wars, and I won a nice T-Bag from Saddleman.  None of us won any of the grand prizes this year (If Glenn had been there I am sure he would have won the 50/50 – too bad Glenn).  I understand that they ended up with over 100 riders this year.  Which was more than the last couple of years. 

Tom Maldonado took time at the end to thank everyone who had helped.  He called all of us from 230 up to the stage and thanked us for our continued support.  A nice end to the day.

October Chapter Ride - Crystal Lake

For those of you that don’t know, I had a total knee replacement six weeks ago.  So this ride was very important to me.  I realize that I surprised a lot of people when I pulled up on my bike Saturday morning – but it felt great to be back in the saddle.  We had a really great group for the ride.  After a little socializing we called the meeting to order.  We were joined by some new riders: Johnathan Hinds, Dave Vance, and Todd’s daughter Delany Withey.  We also welcomed back Doug and Cindy Reeves who were with us for their third ride, more about that later.  There were announcements of the upcoming OSC Poker Run, and the overnighter to Pismo, info on the Holiday Party and November fundraiser for the OSC.  Then it was the all important raffle.  Winners were William Fields, Mike Fry, Patty Giambitti, Richard “Taz” Green and Chuck Giambitti.   For once the 50/50 was NOT won by Richard “Taz” Green – but in fact was won by Johnathan Hinds. 

Time to ride – we ended up with 24 bikes and 34 riders broken out into three groups with Dan Dobler, Brian Hefter, and Gary Felkel as Ride Captains.  Brian was being trained by Terry Bishop who was riding his wing, and I was riding as a tail gunner.  Each group was evenly populated and then we were off down the 5 south to Ortega Highway.  For once there was no construction to prevent us from keeping a really nice pace through the mountains.  The weather was cool and it was a great day for a ride.  We transitioned from Ortega Highway to the 15 north and to our first gas stop in Norco.  After we all gassed up, we were off up the 15 north again to the 10 west and then off at Euclid to make our way up Mount Baldy.  This area has some of the most amazing houses – huge houses with big yards, really nice.  We all were picking out our favorites.  We started up the mountain and then we transitioned off to Glendora Ridge Road, and then San Gabriel Canyon Road. We then turned on Crystal Lake Rd and made out way up to the Café for lunch.  This was a really great road with lots of nice turns and twists.  At the end of the road we arrived at the Crystal Lake Campground and the café and amazingly we found Wayne Moye there waiting for us.  Some of the group had brought their own lunches and a bunch of us had pre-ordered our lunch from the café.  They were really nice and accommodating there.  They have been having it rough since the fires earlier this year – really cut their business down – so they were really happy to see us and make sure we had everything we needed.  And that included some great brownies!!! 


Once we were done with lunch we headed back down the hill and onto Glendora Mountain Road.  After about 150 miles of twisties it was really kind of sad to hit the bottom of the mountain and back onto four lane roads.  We made our last gas stop in Azusa and after some discussion about the current gas prices we saddled up and then it was back to Orange County via the 210 and the 57 south. 

Back at El Torito it was time for business.  After announcements on upcoming rides, it was time to vote our newest members into the group.  Doug and Cindy Reeves had completed their third ride with us and were voted in with our usual flair.  Doug required the help of all of the ladies to ensure his votes – Cindy was a shoe in.  Of course we weren’t influenced by the fact that she brought homemade cookies for everyone!

I really enjoyed my first ride on my new knee.  It was a little rough but really worth it. 

September Chapter Ride - Five Lakes

The day started with us meeting at our regular departure location Starbucks. It was great the see Ed Palaoro our President, 11 days Post-Op from Knee Replacement Surgery up a moving around somewhat. He is doing pretty well considering what he went through, but is still in quite a bit of pain naturally. 

We started our meeting with some key words from Ed, then he turned the podium over to me so he could sit and rest a spell. I did my best to convey all of the regular meeting topics along with a special message from the STAR ISC Committee. Next came the Raffle and the 50/50 and the lucky winners somehow did not include Taz by some miracle.  The 50/50 was won by Charlie Wolfe – $38.50.  The four raffle gifts were won by Luiz Vazquez, Charlie Wolfe, Mike Fry and Terry Bishop.  Congrats to all!!

We did have a smaller group of riders this month due to members on vacation and several with their bikes in the shop so we settled into 2 ride groups. The first group was led by Brian Heftner; who is training as Road Captain and Group 2 was let by our Veteran Road Captain Terry Bishop. We headed up the 57 north, to the 210 east, to the 15 north where we had our first gas stop at highway 138. 

By then it was already getting hot so it felt good to start hitting some warm-up curves along the 138 east. Soon we were motoring by our first lake in the route, Lake Silverwood. 

From there we headed up into the mountains where it started to cool down some due to the higher elevation. Soon we were into the beautiful pines and rolling by Lake Gregory where the twisties just kept coming.  On to Blue Jay, Arrowhead, Running Springs, and finally Big Bear lake where we had a great lunch at the Old Country Inn. 

After lunch we rolled down highway 38 towards Redlands where we hit some rain but not enough to cause anybody to ‘melt’, LOL. 

Down at last gas stop in Mentone, it was very warm and humid, so we jumped on the 10 west to the 57 south to our usual post ride location, El Torito. There I thanked everyone for attending the ride, as well as, the Ride Crew for their efforts in getting us back safely.  We again recapped the up-coming chapter events and the ride was called.

Chuck Giambitti for Ed Palaoro. 

Thanks so much to Chuck for providing this recap in my abscence.

10-Year Anniversary Event

I arrived early at StaRRanch and was so happy to see several members were already there and getting everything started.  Richard Green was already working on getting people parked in the right area at the bottom of the hill, Patty and Chuck Giambitti were working hard and starting on icing down all of the drinks we would need for the day.  Carol and Charlie Wolfe, Chris and Brian Hefter, and Evlee and Mark Pinkney were ready to get shuttled up the hill to start working.  Scott Hamilton was all over helping with all the necessary logistical issues like running water and power.  Shortly, Jim Rawlinson arrived to work as roadie to the band for the day, helping get them all setup and ready for the arrival of guests.  

It became apparent early on that it was going to be a hot day.  I had heard that the temperature was expected to rise above 100 degrees so drinks and ice would be a necessity.  In the end we had eight mega size coolers all filled with ice and water and soft drinks.  We added more tables to the plaza area and setup as many umbrellas and EZ-Ups as we had – it was not enough.  Charlie Wolfe volunteered to go back to his house (with the help of Brian Hefter) and get more umbrellas and EZ-Ups – thank you Charlie and Brian!! 

Patty Giambitti and Evlee Pinkney made fast work setting up the T-Shirt sales area under an EZ-Up.  We had a few chapter shirts and challenge coins for sale during the event – thanks to all who purchased them!!  Rick and Barb Saneki armed themselves with raffle tickets and 50/50 tickets and made sure everyone had the opportunity to buy some.  

At the bottom of the hill members worked to setup a work area where entry fees would be collected and raffle tickets (one for each entry) would be distributed.  Mark Pinkney and myself would be shuttling guests up the hill to the party. 
The band started to arrive and setup in front of the little church.  They left a little space for us to go in and out of the church where all the raffle items were stored.  We had over 50 raffle items donated by chapter members and our supporters.  I can’t thank you all enough for your donations – we had some really amazing stuff.  There was a set of tires, two Invicta watches, a Cookie Lee watch, Trader Joes Grocery Gift bags, Starbucks Gift Cards, Car Detailing Gift bags, a Margarita Gift Basket, 4 Men’s leather jackets, 2 women’s leather jackets and so much more. 

While we were all setting up, Bob from StaRRanch moved his bulls into a pen right below the plaza.  All guests were invited to “slap the bull” – if you have seen the movie Wild Hogs this will ring a bell.  

I have to thank Ron and LouAnn Lopez again – LouAnn made the most incredible cake for the event.  You need to go look at some of the pictures people took to really see how great this cake was – rolling green hills, smooth little road and a bunch of motorcycles – oh and a banner!!!  It was so great. 
Finally our final piece, the Taco Guy, arrived and setup and all was ready! 
Members and guests started to arrive.  Along with all of our members from Chapter 230 we were joined by members of Chapters 109, 345, 415, 422, 434, and 500.  Many of our guests had at one time been members of 230 – we had six of the original charter members of the chapter with us (Bob and Anna Barbano, Sharon, Linda, Richard Green and Glenn Sandstrom) – two of which are still active members and currently holding key positions within the chapter (Richard Green and Glenn Sandstrom).  I was also so happy to see Frank Alvarez, president of 415 and Jim Holland his VP (and their nurses/wives).  So glad to see they are both recovering well.  So glad they were able to come out and support our group.  I also want to thank Gail Indorf’s father for coming up!  A group from the Orange Senior Center was there as well, including Tom Maldonado and Tami Rowe and their families. 

Food was served and everyone braved the hot sun to stand in line for tacos.  Don’t know about you but the tacos that I ate were really great!  Thanks to Evan Brown for recommending and arranging for the taco guy!!  
In between the band’s music sets, we held three raffle drawings.  In the end, over 50 items were raffled off – a big chunk seems to go to Barry Cleveland and the Barbano family…Although others did win a bunch.  I can’t explain how it happened but Richard “Taz” Green won the 50/50 drawing.  Now understand Taz has won the last 4 of 7 chapter 50/50 drawings.  Each time we have someone different draw the tickets and each time he has won.  This time we asked Matthew Clark (Ed Clarks son) to pull the ticket.  

Vince Greva made a presentation to Scott Hamilton for his 2012 Star Days Motorcycle Rodeo and Skills Event Top Gun Competition 1st Place!!! Congrats Scott. 

Bob and Anna presented Susan and I with an amazing plaque recognizing the Chapter for the 10-Year milestone. Thanks so much – as I have said in the past it is our chapter, and without the members we would not be as successful as we are today. 

Once everyone had been served, a group walked down to see the bulls.  Several of us tried our luck “slapping the bull.”  A few actually succeeded – me, Evan Brown, Kyle Dalke, and Scott Hamilton. 

As the day ended, we started the process of shuttling members back down the hill and cleaning up.  Everyone had been really great at recycling and I think Ken Indorf was going to take the recyclables down and turn them in and give the proceeds back to the chapter – great deal Ken!!! 

The remaining food was donated to StaRRanch for their ranch hands to eat and the remaining drinks (although there weren’t many) will be used at the November Fund Raiser for the Orange Senior Center. 

I can’t begin to thank the members who helped us put this event together enough.  Without you all we could not have pulled this off. 

But in the end, I can’t thank everyone enough for coming and celebrating our 10-Year Anniversary with us.  This is why I am a part of Star Touring and Riding – the friends we have made who are more than willing to share in these times

August Chapter Ride - Mulholland Highway/Malibu

The day started off great, I arrived early and already several members were already waiting – they new it was going to be a great ride.  It was great to see the Gehrl’s (Patty and Gerry, our past president) joining us – it’s been quite a while since we had them on a ride with us.  Niki Forsythe, a past 230 member who now rides with the Riverside Chapter joined us as well.  Several members and friends from the Riverside chapter also joined us.  We were also joined by Bob Barbano, a charter member of 230 and our local State Director.  It was shaping up to yet again be a great turnout and ride.

We held our usual meeting with information and then the raffle and 50/50.  Bill Gilmore won a utility knife set, Rick Saneki an Allen Wrench set, Bob Barbano a socket set, Luis Vasquez a JBJ Gift Certificate, Bob also won some microfiber towels and a t-shirt (Doesn’t Play Well With Others), and Keith Limbach won three quarts of oil.  I should be shocked, but Richard “Taz” Green won the 50/50 again (that makes 4 out of 7) and walked away with $62.  

Before the ride we had a demo of all hand signals by Richard “Taz” Green assisted by Bob Barbano – reminder all hand signals are made with your left arm.  Then Dan led a group in a lane change demo.  Hopefully this was a good refresher. 

We would be slip into three groups of 40 riders on 32 bikes on our way to Mulholland Highway.  I led one group, Terry Bishop led another, and Dan Dobler led the third.  We were off down the 22 to the 405 north and up to the 10 out to Pacific Coast Highway (PCH for us locals).  The beach was still a little gloomy and it kept the temps down a little.  Our first stop was at the 76 on PCH where we all gassed up and got ready for the twisties!!! 

Up the road and then a right onto Topanga Canyon – then the twisties. Great road with some really nice turns.  At the top of the hill we stopped at a small pull over area and took some pictures – really great view of all of Malibu.  The weather started heating up a bit, but for the most part it was really nice.  We made our way along the ridge, looking at some amazing homes, and then down the canyon and back to PCH.  We were lucky this time and the light at the bottom of the hill was green – it’s a no turn on red lol.  We continued up PCH and then made a right onto Las Virgenes Road and started our second set of twisties. From Las Virgenes we turned onto Mulholland and even more amazing homes – in fact there is one on the hill that has its own helipad – I think Terry Bishop said it had been featured on one of those home shows and was listed at $45 million dollars!  

Now throughout the ride we were dodging bicyclists on the right and then a few sport bikes – but there were two that really pushed their luck.  We were coming into one of the areas where the speed limit drops to around 30 mph and two sport bikes decided to pass my group.  I was leading with Bob Barbano as my wing and my wife Susan right behind him – one bike cut in front of Susan and the other in front of Bob then they criss-crossed behind we and within seconds one passed on my left causing me to move to the right, and then the other passed on my right brushing up against my right leg.  Way too close for me!  
Good thing it was time for lunch!  We stopped at Islands in Augora Hills where they were kind enough to give us half the restaurant.  They were really great and everyone was served within a short time.  A big thanks to their Manager Stacy who made it all work.  I think it must be kind of nerve wracking to have 35 people come in all at once for lunch. 

After lunch we were back on the road and onto the 101, up the 23.  We stopped for gas in Moorpark.  Now a few rides back when we were in this same gas station some people decided to mess with me and told me I should go west on the 118 – and then said no go east.  Now this stuck in my head and I am forever questioning which direction to go when I get to this intersection – this time I picked wrong.  Now my group had to take a scenic drive down a hill and past a mobile home park to get back onto the 118 going east.  Now I did hear from several riders that this was a great road as it had some nice sweeping turns and twists with reasonable speed – so a nice adventure. 

So then we were on the 118 to the 210 to the 57.  The entire trip we had great luck with traffic, until we got onto the 57.  Apparently there was a major accident that had caused them to close the 60.  Well the 60 crosses over the 57 and that was causing a pretty big backup onto the 57.  Good use of the tricks used in the skills class (thanks Vince Greva).  A little patience – one route around – and we were back to a good speed on the 57 and back to El Torito.  

Thanks to all who rode with us, reminders of upcoming events, and of course reminders for the 10-Year Anniversary, and the ride was called. 

Star Days - Reno

Saturday - We started our trip to Star Days from our usual Starbucks parking lot early on Saturday morning with 14 bikes and 17 riders.  We also had 6 trailers with us, so it was decided to make two groups for the trip up to Sonora.  I led group 1 and Jim led group 2.  We made our way up the 5 North out to Castaic where we met Rac and Rose at Denny’s.  After breakfast we gassed up and then were off again with Rac and Rose folding into group 1.  The ride was smooth with little traffic but the temps rose nicely as we made our way up north.

On our way up through the grapevine, someone asked for a potty break and so we stopped at a Chevron that was conveniently at the next exit.  Coincidently, a group from Chapter 109 was there gassing up as well, so we had a nice visit before pressing on.

We continued up the 99 through Bakersfield and were real glad it was still early so the heat was not too bad yet.  We stopped for gas in Delano and then we stopped for gas and lunch in Madera.  Was funny we stopped right next door to the hotel we stayed at on our way back from our Plumas-Lassen overnighter last year.  We all decided we were hungry so we stopped at Panda Express for some lunch.  Not sure they were ready for a group of bikers lol.  The place was full of a girl’s softball team that left as soon as we arrived.  Once we were fed we were off again north, up the 59 to the 108 to the 49 and into Sonora.

We arrived at our hotel and found it to be nice but spread out into two buildings over a couple of blocks and all with parking on an incline.  At the hotel we found Ron and LouAnn Lopez and some riders from the Riverside chapter (434).  They were there to hookup with Bob and Tony Barbano who would be arriving late that night.  We invited them to join us for dinner.  Lucky for us we only had to walk a couple of blocks to locate a nice Mexican restaurant.  Mi Pueblo was a nice place and honestly they didn’t really freak when we told them we had over 20 diners – so it wasn’t bad.  Although the service was a little slow and our waitress seemed to be rather “mellow” all was good.  The best part was the company, of course.

Some of the group returned to the hotel, but a few of us decided to walk around the town.  Sonora is really quaint and has a lot of little shops and such – although just like the rest of the U.S. there were a lot of closed storefronts.  We made it back to the hotel and some went to their rooms and some went and hung out at the pool for a bit.

Sunday - The next morning some had breakfast at the hotel (continental breakfast, no protein, lots of bread) and some walked over to the gas station across the street for good coffee and assorted junk food.  We then grouped up and made our way out through Sonora.

This was the leg of the ride that I was really excited for.  We rode up the 49 to the 4 and Ebbett’s Pass. Ebbett’s Pass is a 2-lane road with no dividing line and some blind hairpin turns.  The view was amazing.  It was a beautiful day, great weather, and a newly paved road.  We took our time and made a couple of stops for photos.

We stopped mid way for lunch in Markleeville at the Wolf Creek Restaurant and bar.  Markleeville is really a neat town with lots of character, one of the many towns built during the silver mining booms of the 1860’s.  The restaurant was great (thanks Brian Hefter – one of his suggestions). Once we all got ourselves together we started off again down the 4 then up the 395 past Topaz lake.  At our last gas stop it was noted that my front tire had, as one member put it, a bulge.  Yes, I needed another tire (rear tire last trip).  We decided that we were close enough to our destination that I could make it in and hopefully find a new tire in Sparks.  So off we went past Carson City and into Reno/Sparks.
It was good that we got in on Sunday.  We would learn that parking was at a premium and we were able to at least get our trailers locked together into two groups.  For those of you that went with us to the High Sierra Star BQ, we stayed at the same hotel as that time.  We arrived at the Nugget in Sparks, and smartly allowed the bellmen to take our stuff up to our rooms before parking the bikes.  The hotel is really nice and we all settled in for the next five days.
Once everyone was checked in and settled in their rooms, we all met downstairs in front of the Starbucks to go get some dinner.  Now the area in front of the Starbucks would become the place, as that was where we all settled in and took over each evening.  The waitresses from the bar were not faint hearted so they were able to handle our group without issue.  We all gathered up and went to Rosie’s Diner (in the hotel) for dinner.  We were all seated at a large table together and had a great waitress who was willing to bend the rules and split checks for us, so all was good.  We informed our waitress that it was Patty’s birthday (it would be Thursday actually) so they were nice enough to sing and give the birthday girl a huge slice of cake (we took advantage of this several times during the trip).

After dinner, some turned in, some wandered, and some gambled.  We ran into all sorts of friends from our area and some that we had met in the past at StarBQs and such.  Of course Alan and Ginger were around to say welcome as well.

Monday was a down day with really nothing planned but relaxing and finding me a new tire.  The group wandered and calls were made with a tire ordered.  A small group took off on a short ride around Lake Tahoe and a couple of riders rode off to see friends.  We wandered the vendors as they were setting up and all started registering around 1.  We were happy to see Richard and Wayne arrive on Monday afternoon.  We continued to spend the day wandering and after a great dinner at Trader Dicks, finished off with the Officers meeting at 7pm.  From what I understand the Officer’s Meeting used to be limited to Chapter Officers, but recently they started opening up the meeting to any Star member who wished to attend.  About 200 people attended and listened to members of the ISC (International Star Council) discuss their charter, the goals of the event and new things we might see (like some cool new t-shirts being sold by Star). 

After the meeting we all congregated in front of Starbucks and then wandered over to the “Lounge” where a small band was playing and some refugees from a cruise ship or Arthur Murray dance studio were dancing.  We all had a good laugh and ended the evening on a really happy note.

Tuesday began with the official event opening ceremony.  They presented flags from all countries represented at the event and played each countries national anthem (boy does Australia have a long anthem).  After introductions, the Remembrance Officer presented the ringing of the bell in memory of all Star Members lost in the previous year.  It was good and sad to hear John Ruhland’s name called and the bell rung.  Once all names were read the event was officially started.  Some members chose to ride the Vet’s Ride, which was about an 80 mile ride through the local area.  Other members chose to wander the vendor booths, get their oil changed, and check out the Silent Auction items.  I on the other hand, got to go get my new tire (woo hoo!)  We had a member working the event as well, Patty Giambitti worked the registration booth for part of the day.  We watched lots of Star members arrive and the parking lot filled up tight.  A short trip was made to the local Cabelas where a little shopping was done and we ate dinner in their restaurant – bison burgers!  When we returned we were really disappointed to find out that there was no entertainment on Tuesday or Wednesday in the lounge, so we all gathered outside Starbucks again.  It was on this evening that we (a group of members, officers and our Director, Bob Barbano) decided that we should just go ahead and vote Howard and Linda Montgomery into the Chapter.  Following our normal protocol we made them stand in the aisle way of the casino/hotel lobby and first voted Linda in to a roaring yes vote, and then made Howard stand with all our female members.  They were both so excited to be part of our chapter.  In fact Linda went right down the next morning and bought a vest and all the patches she could get in the Star Mall and had the guy sewing patches put them all on – by mid day she was proudly wearing her chapter vest!

Wednesday the group decided to take a ride out to Pyramid Lake.  It was a short ride by our normal standards (less than 200 miles) but very scenic.  As we approached the lake we dubbed it a Big Azz Lake!  This was the largest lake I have ever seen.  Not a soul on it.  As we made our way around it, we decided we needed a short break and stopped at the marina restaurant.  In the bar we got to see some of the Big Azz Fish that they catch there, including the world record fresh water fish caught, a record setting 41 pound cut-throat trout.
 
We returned and had lunch and then went back out to the vendor booths hoping to see something new had appeared.  We did find Rick Sherrill trying to sell some slightly used motorcycle accessories and proudly displaying a new cover on his new Victory Vision (the covers were what was really being sold in that booth).  Everyone seemed drawn to the Purple Slice booth and we watched the demo several times – a few members purchased the product so it must be pretty good. 

In the afternoon several of us participated in Vince Greva’s skills class.  This was an abbreviated version of the class that he held here a few weeks ago.  We sat through an hour of lecture then went down to the parking lot to try our skills using our own bikes.  Scott, Jim, Dan, Susan, Tom, Ken, and Larry participated (as did about 5 others from other chapters).  We did three different exercises in slow riding, a straight shot down a narrow lane, a swerve around a line of cones 15 feet apart, and a 24 foot U-turn.  Once we practiced a few runs on each exercise the best 6 were asked to compete.  Scott, Dan, Ed, and Jim were chosen along with two other riders from other chapters (top 4 from 230!!!).  In the end, Scott won by a narrow margin – I was robbed I hit a cone.  (During the banquet Scott was presented with a 10th anniversary belt buckle and given a round of applause!)

After the skills test we wandered down to the parking lot and found Keith and Terry had arrived.  We all went to get ready for the banquet.  This time they did it a little different.  We all gathered around 4:15 in the lobby of the banquet hall.  The doors opened at 4:30 and we were told to go directly to the buffet lines and then find seats – like we ever follow rules.  Half the group ran to tables and half the group went to get food.  In the end we filled up two full tables. It was your normal chicken, ribs, and potatoes.  Once all were served, they started the festivities with the normal introductions.  They asked all chapter presidents to stand and then they were asked to announce their chapter and location.  When they got to us, we of course cheered so loud that Alan said “no need to go any further” lol.  I am pretty sure we had the largest group there.  There were several awards handed out, the most important was the Order of the Star awarded to Anna Barbano.  Once the awards were completed there was the Shark Auction.  We had provided one of our chapter challenge coins for auction for the Star Family Foundation.  The coin had been bundled with a bottle of wine and a t-shirt.  It was auctioned off to Shark himself for $350.  Shark then told the crowd that he just wanted the coin – so he donated the other items back and they were auctioned for an additional $200.  Pretty cool.  They also auctioned off the Custom Strat with all Star accessories and specialty paint that was displayed in Laughlin this year.  The bike was won with a winning bid of $18,500.  Wow.

Thursday was the SwampAzz ride.  Up until that morning we had no idea where the ride was to go or how many miles it would be.  It started at 8 am.  We all picked up our maps and instructions.  The route was pretty straight forward – so we thought.  Rick Sherrill rode with us and he was familiar with the area, so he volunteered to lead us.  There were about four areas of road construction, one were we sat for 20 minutes waiting for the road to open back up and of course we got rained on a little.  I have to say though it is beautiful country up there and we saw some scenery that was amazing.  Granted we might have gotten a little frustrated at points, who can complain when you are riding somewhere with those views. 



We got back to the hotel just in time as it was getting really blowy.  We all took another pass at the vendors and then went up to get ready for dinner.  We decided to go to Orozko – the basque restaurant downstairs to celebrate Patty’s actual birthday.  It was a really great dinner capped off with a seven layer chocolate cake and a few candles.  Of course we forced her to blow them out and sang happy birthday one more time.  After dinner we went out to the “lounge” again.  This time the band was two guys in rather festive dress singing Motown and seventies hits.  We all got into the spirit singing and a few of us actually hit the dance floor.  So much fun.

Friday morning we loaded up and headed out to June Lake via Virginia city.  Dan led us on a route around the back of the city through some really old mining towns.  We arrived and spent a few hours walking the city looking at the stores, and had lunch.  After lunch we all gathered back at the bikes and then made our way down to June Lake.  It was nice to see the waterfalls were still running on the mountain.  We all got checked in and planned dinner at the restaurant right across the street.  Great meal.  We had learned earlier in the day that it was Scott and Marie’s wedding anniversary, so another cake was in order! 
After dinner we all returned to the hotel to get packed up for the ride home.
 
Saturday morning we got up early and pulled out around 7am.  It was 32 degrees when we left June Lake.  We made our way down the 395 to Bishop for breakfast at Whiskey Creek.  By the time we left breakfast it was already 75 degrees.  We left Bishop and headed south with temps rising faster than we could keep up.  By the time we hit Kramer Junction we all needed lots and lots of water and some lunch at Subway.  The temps when we left Kramer Junction were at about 104 degrees.  We rewet all the cool vests and the ride was called.  The group continued down the 395 to the 15 and from that point riders peeled off to home. 

All in all, a really great trip with some great friends.

July Chapter Ride - Angeles Crest

The morning started with a phone call as we were riding to Starbucks.  It was 7:10 and a member was so excited to ride that he had arrived at Starbucks early and wanted to know were everyone else was.  It was in the air – the sun was shining, it was warm and there were twisties in our future.


We had a great crowd of riders; in the end we would have 50 riders on 45 bikes – 6 of these new riders.  Welcome to Al Piwonka, Ralph Lewis, Paul McInerny, Johnathon Hinds, Roxana Morgan, and Geoff Dionne.  It was the final test ride for Jim Rawlinson and the first ride for Brian Hefter in their training for being Road Captains.  So we broke into three groups to start and off we went.  At our first gas stop on Waterman Canyon we picked up our fourth group – Chapter 109.  So glad to have Gary Powell and his group join us.  After fueling up we started up the mountain. 


Everything was going smoothly, we rode up the 18 and made our transition to the 138 and then we stopped.  Little did we know that the Lake Gregory/Crestline July Jamboree parade was scheduled for this morning and would be crossing our route.  After a little rerouting and assistance from the local police, groups 1 and 2 and most of the 109 group were able to cross the parade route, group 3 had to wait until the parade passed by – no really.  Unfortunately for them this was about 5 minutes on an incline.  Once we all got through, it was smooth sailing through Crestline and out over the 15 and to the 2- Angeles Crest Highway.  


For a couple of years a long section of Angeles Crest Highway was shut down and this was the first time in a while that we have been able to include it in a chapter ride.  This is a great ride with lots of twisties and amazing views.  There was a little debris on the road but not enough to cause any concern.  The groups made their way through the mountains with a short stop for photos at a paved turn-out.  Was really great to see all the bikes together.  Lots of pictures taken and then off down the road to lunch at Newcomb’s Ranch.  

We had talked to the folks at Newcomb’s Ranch a couple of times and told them Chapter 230, 50 people between 12:30 and 1pm.  They wrote down group of 50 at 2:30.  Lucky for us they already had the room ready and the waitress was there, so all was good.  I have to give them credit, 50 people at one time is rough, but they did a good job at getting everyone served.  The food was good and the scenery was great.  


After lunch we were off back down the 2 to Angeles Forest Highway and then on to Big Tujunga Canyon Road and then down to Sunland.  A quick gas stop and we were off back to home.  We arrived at El Torito without issue and with everyone we started with – always good.  


We ended the day with Jim Rawlinson getting his Road Captain rocker – congrats Jim!  And then we voted in Rick and Barb Saneki  - welcome to the chapter!  Reminders for Star Days (we leave in a week) and the Chapter 10 Anniversary Event – and then the ride was called.

Sequoias Overnighter

The count was 11 bikes, 15 riders all headed out to the Sequoias.  We started out Friday morning up the 57 to the 210, to the 14, to the 58 and out to Tehachapi.  The weather could not have been better – clear as a bell and about 60 degrees.  I asked Scott Hamilton (with Marie as passenger) to lead the group since the ride was his suggestion at the ride planning meeting. Our first stop would be the Tehachapi Loop.  We have probably ridden past this many times and not ever taken the time to turn off and take the great twisty little ride up to the ridge to see the actual loop.  The Tehachapi Loop takes its 'loop' name from the route it takes, in which the track passes over itself.  It was built in the 1870’s.  Of course there wasn’t a train in sight while we were there – but the ride up to the viewpoint was great.  We will have to incorporate this into a chapter ride someday.

After getting gas in Tehachapi we continued up the 58 to Caliente Bodfish road – weird name, great road.  And so starts the twisties that would not end until we got onto the 395 on our way home. Between the road and the scenery we could not have asked for a better day.  I said that before I was attacked by three wayward bees that flew up my wheel forks and into my shirt.  Quickly an abrupt stop was made on a country road so I could shake them out.  Lucky no stings.  We stopped for lunch (Subway, yum!) in Lake Isabella and then back on the twisties!  I don’t know how Scott knows these roads but it was incredible.  We arrived at our hotel at about 3:30 pm.

After checking in and freshening up, the group was off to locate dinner.  Our first selection (based on the hotel reception recommendation) was closed – so we doubled back to a place we saw on our way and had a great dinner at Don Vinos.  The service was great and they had a guy playing the piano in the corner – he wasn’t bad… Unfortunately Carolyn lost an earring; we looked everywhere but no sign of it. After dinner we were all full and very tired.  A few sat out by the pool for a bit, but not long. 

After breakfast at the free buffet (not too bad for a hotel and of course it was free!!) we all gathered up and got ready for another day of twisties (not exaggerating – twisties 90% of the ride).  We started up through Woodlake, then up into Kings Canyon.  Like I had planned it, it was a free day in the park, so we all saved $20 admission.  In Kings Canyon we stopped to take the short hike to see the General Grant tree.  These trees are incredible.  The bases are the size of our house!  If you have not seen them you need to go some time.  It is hard to describe just how cool this is.  There is a fallen tree there that served as a field office for President Truman at one time, and a livery – you can walk right through it.  After a group shot, taken by a man who did not speak English, recruited from a tour bus, we continued through the park.  There was an attempt to stop and view the General Sherman tree (which is the largest tree in the world) but since the park was free that day everyone seemed to be in the parking lot to see it as well.  Even after a check of the auxiliary parking lot we decided we didn’t need to see it after all.  So we continued through the park.  We drove a short distance through a prescribed burn – lots of smoke and ash. 
The most difficult part of Saturdays ride was through the construction area that they have setup.  Groups are stopped at a light and each direction takes turns making it through the construction.  The road was broken and full of gravel and loose sand.  Mind you we were still going through twisties, but now we were following several cars that I am certain no longer have any brakes. Everyone made it through without any issues. 

Now everyone was getting hungry and we were sort of in the middle of nowhere, but Scott spotted a sign for the Montecito Sequoia Lodge that offered a lunch.  A quick left turn and up a narrow road, past a great small lake to a lodge with cabins.  We learned that they serve lunch from 12:30 to 1:30.  Lunch was a buffet of Salisbury steak, au gratin potatoes, mac and cheese, salad and other stuff I don’t remember – oh and cookies – all for $9.95!  We jumped at the offer.  We also talked to the manager about possibly planning an overnighter there.  Patty Giambitti and I toured one of the cabins and some of the others checked out the lake (skiing and wakeboarding).  Once we had toured the grounds and rested up, we were off for more twisties. 

We stopped for gas in Three Rivers and after a check of my rear tire determined that something was just not right.  We decided to stop at D&E Yamaha in Visalia to see if they could get a new tire for me and coincidently Visalia Star Chapter was having an event there.  On the way we passed the Honda dealer and decided they would be a better bet to get a new tire.  After some “discussion” on whether they could help me (it was late in the day), they agreed to change my tire (oh, and I got new brakes too).  While waiting for my tire the remaining group went on to Yamaha.  They all came back to check on me, but it was going to be a little while longer so they all went on to the hotel with a stop at a fruit stand on the way.  After my tire was fixed I went over to Yamaha to say howdy – Planet Visalia is a great group of really nice people!

Originally we were planning on going out to dinner, but the day had been intense and everyone decided pizza delivery was in order.  The pizza arrived and lasted maybe 10 minutes – I think we were hungry.  We moved our party to the pool area and the more comfortable chairs.  A few drinks later we all turned in to rest for the ride home.

Current score – 2 dead rattlesnakes, 1 moving rattlesnake (in the center of the road), 1 really quick rabbit (right between Scott’s wheels), 1 full grown doe and 5 squirrels.

Breakfast was courtesy of the free hotel breakfast again.  Everyone gathered up and off we went.  Our drive home took us up the 190 and past Camp Nelson (our original destination).  Lots of twisties again and great views. 
As we were riding we see a sign that says “Caution, Active cattle drive in progress.”  We all think cool – we will see cows crossing the road and cowboys.  Eventually we slow down to see two horses and a truck who have just guided the cattle down to our left into a valley.  Again we think cool.  We all wave and start to speed back up – then we see it.  About 5 miles of cow manure.  All fresh and still steaming.  Everyone swerves right and left to avoid the stuff, kicking it up for the guy behind them (oh and trailers have extra wheels to kick up crap).  Once we got passed it all we learned someone needed to use the restroom, so we stopped at a little parking lot with a small two room bathroom and a spigot.  Once we jump off we realize that all of our bikes and trailers are coated with manure – gross.  A feeble attempt was made to rinse it off – no such luck.  It would have to wait until we all got home and used a hose with good pressure – and even then…  After a few snacks and a lot of jokes about how crappy that part was lol we continued.

The route we took was beyond scenic.  We finally reached the part where we met the river and began following it down to Kernville.  We stopped for gas in Kernville and then scouted out a place for lunch.  We decided on the That’s Italian restaurant.  Parking was a little tight but we managed to all find a spot eventually. 

After lunch we continued on down past Lake Isabella and then back through Bodfish and down through Tehachapi.  We stopped for gas and put the twisties behind us (good guess would be that 85-90% of the entire weekend was twisties).  We left there and made out way to the 395 south.  We made one more gas stop in Adelanto to get the smaller bikes all the way home.  I called the ride there, although everyone would continue a good long way still together, it was the last time we would stop.  At this gas stop we got to witness the local sheriff administer a Field Sobriety Test – not sure if she passed or not as we left before he was finished; it didn’t look good.  Lots of hugs and we were off down the 395 to the 15 to the 91 and then off to home.

I would like to thank Scott Hamilton and Gary Felkel with their help in planning the ride, although Gary was unable to join us (he was missed).  Thanks also to Susan Palaoro for creating Saturday’s route through the park.  And thanks to Chuck and Patty Giambitti for their help securing the hotel and with all the emails.

Final score – 3 dead rattlesnakes, 2 moving rattlesnakes (in the center of the road), 1 really quick rabbit (right between Scott’s wheels), 2 full grown does, a lot of cows, and a lot of squirrels.

887 miles / 85% twisties = 754 miles of twisties

June Chapter Ride - Route 66

I wasn’t sure what kind of turn out we were going to have for the June ride, seeing as a few of our more active members had chosen rides to Colorado this weekend.  In the end we had 34 members attending the meeting with 25 making the ride.  Weren’t we surprised when Leroy Herron rode up (with Marie on the back of course).  We haven’t seen them in over a year so it was good to have him back to ride with us!

It was great to see that Barb and Rick Saneki had returned for their second chapter ride and we had four new riders too.  Welcome to Jose and Karen Torres, and Cindy and Doug Reeves.

A lot of socializing and a quick meeting – raffle prizes with winners Greg Tomchick, Tom Schamber, Brian Hefter, William Fields and Bill Gilmore (he won the leather jacket!).  And can you believe that Taz won the 50/50 again – neither can I.  If it weren’t for the fact that different people have pulled the tickets I would swear it was rigged somehow lol.  Looks like our birthday boys had a good day (it was Greg, Taz and Tom’s birthdays this month).

Morning was starting off great and we were ready to ride.  In the end we had two healthy groups. Up the 57 to the 210 and out to the 15. 

Our first gas stop was in Phelan – the Chevron at the 138.  For once it was empty when we got there so there were no lines.  Although it was around 65 degrees when we left Orange, it was warming up nicely and at least one layer was removed for most. The clouds had cleared and it was nice to soak in some sun.  Once we all gassed up we were off down the 15 again. 

Now I must note that as we drove through Victorville I did wave to Barry Cleveland and the members of 434.  They were nice enough to join us for dinner on our overnighter to Santa Barbara. Hey Barry!

We made our turn onto National Tail Highway (which is part of Route 66).  A really nice ride and its interesting how even the most desolate of areas still have some really interesting things to see.  We passed a house known as the Bottle Tree Ranch.  There is a guy that lives there that has created all these metal trees with bottles on all of the branches in his front yard.  See picture…

We made our way up to Barstow and I was surprise what a quaint little city it is.  For years I have only known the Barstow you see from the 15 on your way to Vegas.  The gas stations and fast food – had no idea there was this whole town behind it.

We made our left onto the 247 and down to Lucerne Valley.  I think it reached about 97 degrees on this leg.  Lucky for us there was some wind to keep us a little cool.  We were happy to reach Adelita’s for lunch and some large glasses of water and iced tea!

Lunch was great.  They went out of their way to make sure we were all served.  They also helped us celebrate the three birthdays we had in the group with some flan for the birthday boys (Taz Green, Tom Schamber, and Greg Tomchick). Great fun!

After lunch we made our loop through Big Bear.  A couple of good loop-backs and some nice easy twisties made the ride awesome.  There was really no traffic on the road so we were able to keep a pretty constant pace and that was nice.  We landed in Yucaipa for our last gas stop.  Lots more water for all.  Was glad to hear everyone was having fun and that they thought the pace was good.  Back on the road down the 10 to the 57 and back to El Torito.

A brief meeting with a query of the new riders if they had a good time – all were in agreement yes and they all promised to return.  The ride was called.

Santa Barbara Overnighter

I need to start by explaining that the ride was originally supposed to go to Cold Springs Taverns in the Santa Barbara mountains.  Less than twenty-four hours before the ride I received a call from a family member who lives in the Lompoc area.  He had been chatting with one of his best friends (that happens to be a sheriff in the area) who told him that the Hell’s Angels had taken over a campground within a mile of the Tavern and were wandering the area (sounds like its their “wingding”).  Extra law enforcement had been called in and he advised not to go near the place.  After a phone call to our local law man, Scott Hamilton, and one from the other law man, Vince Greva (from 109) we decided to take the original route, but bypass the tavern.  So I had to break it to the group over breakfast (they can’t yell if they have a full mouth).  Everyone was still up for the adventure and so we were off. 

We left Coco’s in Brea at 8ish with a group of 19 riders on 12 bikes with one trailer.  It should be noted we were joined by Barb and Rick Senecki – now this is the couple that just had their first ride with us on last weekend’s chapter ride.  I think they are hooked!  We were also joined by Bob and Anna Barbano – so good to ride with Anna again.  We could not have asked for better weather as we made our way up the 57 to the 60 to the 5 then we were on the 134 to the 101 and up through Ventura.  The ride up the coast was really great – a little off shore fog but otherwise clear.  We then got onto the 154 heading north with a constant look out for any Hell’s Angels.  We saw a few bikes on the road, but they all waved and smiled so we didn’t think they fit the profile of a Hell’s Angel.  There was a group of about six guys in tight formation, now they didn’t wave – so neither did we.  They might have been, but no patches or such to give us any indication.  The ride up the 154 is really great, some nice sweeping twisties and some beautiful views.  We rode past Lake Cachuma and then up to the 101 and into Santa Maria.  Now at the last gas stop we decided to go to lunch at a place I had heard of from my cousin.  It’s in a small town called Guadalupe, just west of Santa Maria.  I had an address but none of us had ever been this way before, so the adventure was a fun trip through farmlands (they were harvesting cabbage – eww) and down into this little old town. 

The restaurant is called the Far Western Tavern.  It was built as a hotel in the early 1900’s and in 1958 was turned into the tavern.  The windows have cow hide curtains and the walls are adorned with old cowboy paintings and cow heads.  There are a few deer and sheep as well.  It was so cool. Our lunch choices were Salads and steak sandwiches and burgers.  We were all members of the clean plate club this round.  It was great and the service was amazing.  To seat and serve 22 people without any errors within an hour was incredible.  If you ever get up that way this is an experience you should try.

We left lunch and headed back down the 101 to our hotel in Buellton.  We all got checked in and still no Hell’s Angels lol.  A group then went off to Solvang, and a group to a winery (I hear in the end they ended up at a liquor store for the good deals). 

Once everyone was back at the hotel we all headed over to AJ Spurs for dinner.  Any of you who went with us to Pismo last year have eaten at AJ Spurs and it is always great.  We were joined at the restaurant by Barry Cleveland, and his group from Chapter 434 Victorville, who was camping for the weekend at the campground right next to our hotel.  They are always a blast to hang out with.  The restaurant seated us all in one room all together at one big long table in a U shape.  They were nice enough to give us all separate checks and the service as always was great.  The steak is awesome as is the rest of their menu.  Some of the ladies ordered the specialty drinks that they have there – the glasses blink and strobe colored lights – that is only fun for a little while and the lights were turned off as the drinks got to half way (by the way these drinks are the equivalent to 4 shots).  I truly think we all got our beef quotient for the weekend between lunch and dinner. 

The next morning some of us met over at Pea-Soup Andersons for breakfast, and a group stayed at the hotel for the free breakfast.  Pea-soup Andersons was really good.  They seated a group of 8 of us initially, and then we spotted Barry and Rick from 434 and they joined us as well.  Great food, great service!!! 

Back at the hotel we all gathered our stuff up and we were on the road.  A few of our group went north for various reasons, and Evan and Angela took a direct route home as they had become grand-parents during the night and went to see their daughter and new grandson (congrats to you two!!!).  So in the end we were a group of nine heading home.

Now since this was a one-night overnighter we decided to take the scenic route home down the 101 to the 166.  If you ever get the chance to ride the 166 do it.  It was so great.  The views were amazing and the weather was perfect.  We had a gas stop in Maricopa.  Now usually our gas stops are pretty uneventful.  This one was interesting in that we were joined by several feral cats and a really cute free-range puppy while we were stopped.  If we could have caught the puppy it might have had a ride home with Brian and Chris.  It looked like a cute beagle/chihuahua mix.  I fed her some cheese and got her to eat out of my hand but she would never get close enough to grab.  She seemed clean and healthy though so we guessed she must have lived in the house right behind the gas station. 

From Maricopa it was a quick ride down the 5 to Valencia were we stopped for gas and lunch at Marie Callendar’s.  We have stopped here before and the manager is a hoot.  I think he is part of the comedy show they do there on weekends.  Although the service was slow, they were great to get us big pitchers of ice tea and water (it was 98 outside).  From there it was back on the 5 to the 210 to home!  Great trip!

Thanks to everyone who joined us! 

May Chapter Ride - Frazier Park

We started the morning with four new riders, Barb and Rick Saneki, Ron Ponce, and Steve Hein (who we picked up last month on our Chapter ride to Palomar!).  We held our usual chapter meeting with raffle and 50/50 drawing.  Good thing Stan Partin came for the meeting before work as he won $52.00 in the 50/50.  Congrats Stan.  Luiz Vasquez, Scott Hamilton, Ken Indorf (he donated back), Charlie Wolfe and Brian Hefter were the big raffle winners this morning. 

A good collection of about 25 riders in three groups with me, Dan, and Jim leading.  We left one group after the other, but after some really cool maneuvering group 1 ended up coming up behind groups 2 and 3 and then passed them into their rightful position.

When we took the pre-ride the weather was dreary.  The coast was socked in and the mountains were incredibly hot.  Our actual ride could not have been more different.  We started the ride going up the 405 to the 10 to the coast and cruised PCH along Santa Monica and into Malibu.  The sky was clear and the beach was beautiful.  We then went east on the 33.

After our first gas stop we headed east and made our way into Ojai and it warmed up a little but not much.  I can’t say it enough it was a beautiful day.  The road was in pretty good shape, and traffic was really non-existent.  Once we made it into the Frazier park area the twisties started – a good 70 miles of well paced twists and turns; just a little debris in the road in a couple of places and a stream at the bottom of a hill with a turn.  A few really good whoop-di-dos made it a great ride.

We arrived in Lebec for lunch at the Los Pinos Mexican Restaurant (it was Cinco de Mayo you know).  They had been warned that we were coming and they really took care of us.  They gave us our own room and our waitress was really great putting up with us.  The food came out on big platters and so you can guess we were all full after lunch. 

Our last gas stop and we were on our way back on the 5 south to, of course, El Torito (again it was cinco de mayo).  A successful ride with all riders making it back safely.  We again welcomed our new riders and hoped they will return again – they say they will.  We voted in Mike Fry who had accomplished his third ride with us.  Congrats Mike.

The ride was called and we all adjourned into El Torito – for a short meeting on our 10th Anniversary Event.  Lots of ideas and some volunteers – if you want to lend a hand please call me and let me know – we have a lot planned.

Don’t forget to mark your calendars – August 5th – we will be having our 10th Anniversary Event.  Food, raffles, fun! 

Laughlin River Run

Laughlin is an annual trip, which I look forward to all year.  Although we usually take the same route, stay in the same place, and there is always the STAR Breakfast – and still so many things are an unknown.  This year we assembled at our usual Starbucks.  We began with 16 bikes and 8 trailers – two groups with Terry leading one group and the other led by myself.  Several riders were making their first trip to Laughlin (Brian, Jim, Carolyn, William, and Daveta Jo) and a couple were making the ride on their own bikes for the first time (instead of being passengers, Patty and Susan). We headed out the 57 to the 91 to the 60 to Beaumont where we planned to stop for breakfast.  The weather was not with us as we got onto the 91.  Rain began to pour.  Although we were all prepared with our rain gear, a few members learned that their helmets leaked a little.  Rain will find a way to route itself right around your visor and make its way onto your glasses in an instant.  Lucky for us the hard rain only lasted about 20 minutes and by the time we reached Beaumont its had stopped. 

At the Farmhouse we were joined by Evan.  As usual the staff at the Farmhouse treated us so well and breakfast was really good.  Everyone dried off and got set to start out again.  We left Beaumont and went east on the 10 for a long time until we reached the 62 and a gas stop in Yucca Valley.  At this point we could all take off some of our rain gear.  Which was a relief.  We were finally drying off and the temp had risen to a comfortable level, then off down the 62 to Vidal Junction.  At Vidal Junction we parted company with Keith and Stacy who were heading to their house on the river.  It was at Vidal Junction that we identified a belt squeal from Susan’s rear tire and after spending several short rides across the parking lot, and an assessment from Ken (the professor), it was determined it was rideable but would need looked at when we got into Kingman.

We left Vidal Junction and made our way up to Parker.  Apparently they don’t work quickly on road construction and we were stopped going into Parker for a long stretch while they worked on the same area they were working on last year when we went through here.  Finally we got to Parker where we stopped for gas.  It was warming up so more gear was shed here.  Off to Kingman!

So we continued our way down the 62 to the 40.  Group 1 had to stop as now we were freezing and needed to add gear – it was then that group 2 sped past and beat us into Kingman.  But in the end we all arrived safe and sound. 

Now if you don’t know already, we stay in the same Days Inn in Kingman that we have for over 6 years.  They treat us real nice there and don’t get upset when we take over the parking lot.  In the past we would drag the chairs out of the rooms, but now we all bring folding chairs and it looks like a campsite.  Every year on the Thursday night we all go to the Golden Corral for a dinner hosted by the Hualapai Chapter.  This year they held a raffle of two sets of tickets to the David Allen Coe concert in Laughlin on Friday night.  Bob Barbano one the first set, but donated them back.  The next set was one by Chuck and Patty Giambitti.  Apparently this guy is one of Chuck’s all time favorites and he was beside himself.  The second set was one by Ken and Gail Indorf.  And who knew but Ken is also a fan.  Lucky winners!

After dinner we all went back to the hotel and tried to hang out for a bit.  Floyd and his friend arrived – it was one year ago in Laughlin that we “picked-up” on Floyd – lucky us!!!

Friday morning we all assembled for the ride into Laughlin for the STAR Breakfast.  All together between our group and the other STAR members in our hotel and the one next door, we had around 50 bikes riding into Laughlin.  It is an amazing site to watch all those bikes riding together down the freeway.  Although we tried to maintain four different groups – it still looked like one mass of bikes moving together.  There was a little confusion as we were leaving and Carolyn had lost a glove, but she joined in with the members of 415 and we all made it into town together.

We arrived at the Aquarius and all parked on the top level of the parking structure.  Several of our members had never conquered a parking structure before and it was one of those skills test moments – but everyone made it.  The STAR breakfast was pretty good.  I think we may have had the largest group there.  There were a few things raffled off and our own Richard Von Luft won a pretty cool set of sun glasses. 

After breakfast everyone scattered to wander the vendors – I know Scott had his wish book for Kuryakyn and we were all looking for deals.  It got pretty warm and by the afternoon we were ready to head back to the hotel and sit in the shade.  As everyone slowly returned we got to see what purchases were made and watch as bike parts were installed.  Friday night we ordered pizza and sat out in the breeze and chatted.  It was a great evening.  Chuck, Patty, Ken and Gail went off to their concert – we hear it was great, but Gail says it was loud lol. 

Saturday we gathered up and went to breakfast at IHOP.  We had made arrangements to go there with Chesnee – Deanna from the Days Inn’s daughter who is now the hostess there.  Food was great, reasonable, and service was amazing. A quick swing by the hotel to pick up stragglers and we were off to Seligman.  A smaller group did a ride out to Oatman – they say it was great.  On the way to Seligman we stopped in Hackberry where there is what is supposed to be the largest collection of Route 66 memorabilia – not sure if that is the case but they did have a lot of stuff and some nice souvenirs so it was a great stop.  In Seligman we stopped and toured town and its antique buildings and stuff.  Then lunch at Westside Lilo’s Café - its always fun to have your lunch while the stuffed carcasses of large wild animals are watching you eat.  The ride back was great – could not have asked for better weather and a nicer view.

Saturday night a pretty good size group of us went up to the Hualapai Lodge for dinner.  I believe that this is the largest group I think we have taken up to the Lodge.   The restaurant is a 30 minute ride up the mountain through some nice whoop-di-doos and some great Twisties, all ending in a dirt parking lot with some really good sized gullies.  Everyone made it unscathed and hungry.  The restaurant is really great with a large window in the back where the Elk and Deer graze.  There were several wandering the property when we were there.  The food is great and a couple of people ordered something straight from Fred Flintstone’s menu – the largest hunks of prime rib I have ever seen.  We were joined for dinner by Tammy and Rick Sherrill, Barry Cleveland (president of 434), and Deanna and Chesnee from the hotel.  We all left there well fed. 

Everyone made it back to the hotel and started packing to go home – really bittersweet.  We have so much fun together, but we were all ready to go home. 

Sunday morning we left at 7am and went back over to IHOP for breakfast.  Once we finished breakfast we all headed back to the hotel for one last check and to pick up any stragglers.  Back on the road – a reverse of our route out.  One side trip though – we all decided that we had driven past the London Bridge too many times and the group decided to stop.  We are so glad we did.  It was great.  There was a large parking lot with a short walk to the water.  It was cool and there was shade.  There were many pictures taken and a short video that you can find on the Facebook page.  Our return was hot but without any incidents so smooth sailing.  At our last stop in Yucca Valley the group decided to go to the Carl’s Junior for lunch.  Was great to have everyone stop with us.  Once we all cooled down we were ready for our last leg home. 

Can’t thank you all enough for such a successful and enjoyable trip.  Already have rooms blocked for next year – hope to see you all there!