You might want to consider staying away from Trucks hauling poultry on your next ride. Those Mother Plucking Trucks can make you sick. Apparently, you can breath in the airborne Pathogens released as the fowl are taking their last ride. Click on the photo to learn more about improving your Biosecurity.
You might want to pass this truck to avoid the “Fowl Smell”
FACTOID: More people have been into space than have finished in the Iron Butt Rally. Click on this link to find out what Wikipedia says about the: Iron Butt Rally.
Now LD Riders have their own Genre in the cinema world in the form of the movie “HARD MILES” 11 Days 11,000 Miles. “HARD MILES” chronicles the 2007 Iron Butt Rally the ultimate test of motorcycle endurance riding and physical and mental toughness. I was fortunate to get a special preview at the 2008 Iron Butt Associations National Meet in Tulsa last July. I have an interest in this movie as some of my friends are featured in it.
“HARD MILES” BY Abracadabra Press
This is the exciting documentary of the August 2007 Iron Butt Rally. 15 months in the making, this video shows what it takes to win and lose the legendary long distance endurance motorcycle rally. 97 riders faced incredible challenges, never-ending rain, relentless heat, and endless hard miles. This is the amazing saga of 11 long days as they ride throughout North America. Hear the riders tell the story and witness the joy and the heartbreak that is the Iron Butt Rally.
At one time, The Iron Butt Rally had a “sit here, twist that!” ideology which resulted in heroic miles to win. Now winning or losing the rally just might be determined before a leg is tossed over the saddle. In the 2007 Iron Butt Rally, route planning, a reliable ride, a proven top rider, and the key uses of communications and outside support team was the winning combination. Run time is: 66 minutes
When: December 6, 2008 6:00 PM 9:00 PM
Where: Abracadabra, , 1331 E. Edinger Avenue, Santa Ana, CA 92705, 714-667-1010
GPS Coordinates
N 33° 43.630’
W 117° 51.193’
The Premiere coincides with 28th Annual Cycleworld International Motorcycle Show, Long Beach CA. Get motorcycle show info and tickets to the show at:
https://buytickets.motorcycleshows.com/tickets.aspx?sh=529
The Long Beach Motorcycle show opens Saturday at 9:30 AM. Walk the motorcycle show, buy your farkles, and then leave early enough to ride 35 minutes down the I-405 to Santa Ana.
Arrive at the Premiere between 6:00 - 7:00 PM. Light hors d’oeuvre and soft drinks available. The Hard Miles will be displayed on a 12- foot wide screen with awesome audio.
All pre-orders of “Hard Miles” will be in the mail the first week of December!!!!!
RSVP: Please respond directly to:
Dean Tanji
dtanji@gmail.com
Include name and guest(s)
If you can’t attend the Premiere, more information about the movis is available at:
Well day #2 back to Texas was just a Point A to Point B kinda of day. I had a great Breakfast just east of Quartzite Az at the Cactus Grill Restaurant. It is located at a fuel stop along the south side of E/B I-10. It is a Gem of a restaurant and the best cooked breakfast I’ve had the whole trip. I won’t tell you the exact location, since I would like to keep it a well kept secret. You’ll just have to find it yourself.
Corned beef hash and eggs, accompanied with the “Home Fries”.
Once I hit Lordsburg NM, the temperatures dropped into the low 40’s with my throttle hand cramping near Las Cruces, I almost called it a night. My goal was to hit Texas which I did, after pushing on and a full hard day in the saddle. It was a pretty satisfying day knowing that the previous morning I had been in the SF Bay Area and was now in Texas.
Day #3, was to try and make it the 601 miles from El Paso to home. Once out of El Paso, I-10 opens up to a speed limit of 80 MPH, which allows a steady cruise at 85 MPH without getting in trouble. A few cars cruised by me at 95 plus, so I followed them at a safe distance. Both cars, a Black Audi and a Black Dodge Charger got pulled over a short time later just east of Van Horn. I took the opportunity since they were tying up the LEO’s to open it up for a while, making up for the short winter days. The first few hours of the ride was very cold, in the upper 40’s and low 50’s but after two hard days of riding, it seemed much colder. I hit a psychological wall at about 350 miles into the ride, causing me to think about stopping in Junction Texas and finishing the last 150 miles home the next morning.
One of the many rest stops of E/B I-10 with Free Wi-Fi and Snakes. You gotta Luv Texas
Red Bull break and fuel stop
Cockpit view of E/B I-10 in S/W Texas…not a very exciting ride but it has a few scene vistas.
After a quick break and a red bull near Fort Stockton, I got rejuvenated and pressed on home. The short day light hours plagued me, as I reached Junction Texas. This is the beginning of Hill Country to the north and is chock full of deer. I quickly made my way from I-10 north towards Fredericksburg, as I lost last light. I could see deer all along the shoulders and the constant scanning was getting me tired fast.
I finally reached Fredericksburg, only 92 miles from home, when I had a revelation. Why not just stop here for the night. I could finished the last few miles home in the light and still be home before lunch, free from worrying about the deer. The store fronts along the main street were all lit with their Christmas decorations and a nice cold beer from one of the many German Biergartens seemed an appropriate reward for three days of hard riding.
Oktoberfest Draft with the German Sausage Sampler. I gave the waitress a $7 dollar tip for having to serve me in the cold outdoors.
As I made my way down main street, it started to rain but just very lightly. I reached Atdorf’s Biergarten, with the outdoor dining area well light but empty. The waitress started to escort me into the inside dining area and seemed surprised when I requested to sit outside. With my riding gear on I was plenty warm and it was well protected from any threatening rain. After washing the the Sausage Sampler down with a German Draft Beer, I checked into a motel for the night to reflect on the last 4,000 miles. I am looking forward to a few weeks at home to just vegetate and get some things done at the ranch and think of where the next ride will take me.
Almost home Day #3
Well today began my first leg back to Texas, following my one week visit to my former home town. I had a great time visiting old friends and even made a few new ones but it was time to get back home.
The day before I had gotten new tires and during the tire removal, it was noted my brake pads were almost done. I had neglected to check my brake pads before leaving but there are always lessons to be learned from every trip. The rear pads were completely gone and the fronts have about 1mm left before they hit metal. I was able to get the rear pads changed but couldn’t get new front ones before I left. I will try to use only my rear brake on the ride home when needed, in order to save the fronts in case of FUBAR’S. Besides, I will be mostly on the Interstates so other than emergency braking I can gear down and use the rear brake only.
I spent the night at Tony Zega’s house in Tracy, Ca which allowed me to start the 1,800 mile ride, away from the congestion of the Bay Area Traffic. At 0600 hrs in the early morning darkness of Daylight Savings Time, I topped off my tank with fuel and began my trek home. From Tony’s it is just a few minutes to Interstate 5 and I was making good time in the pre-dawn light, with very little traffic. As usual on long trips, I rode about 100 miles before stopping to have breakfast, just as the sun began to rise directly in front of me. It was good timing to eat, allowing the sun to crest above the horizon and aleviating having to ride directly into the sun. I normally like to ride from 30 minutes to an hour after waking, to get a good head start on any long journey, which gets me down the road and away from the urban sprawl and also helps to build up a good morning appetite.
After a light breakfast, a few text messages and half a cup of coffee, I resumed my ride. Now I thought I had gotten a good nights rest but as I continued south, I was fighting the nods. After another 50 miles, I pulled over to have a Red Bull but it wasn’t working. I continued to ride, singing to myself inside my helmet but even my off key attempt to keep myself awake was failing. Now I don’t know if I actually fell asleep but I startled myself a few times, so I let reason win over the need to get back home and pulled over. I stopped at the Motel 6 at Hwy 46 and I-5, breaking my rule of abstaining from lodges which contain a number in their name. The alternative of trying to catch a nap on top of my bike or on the ground, made the stay the lesser of two evils. I reasoned that the $44 nap was much cheaper than and ambulance ride or buying a new machine, so be it.
I grabbed my tank bag, opened the door to my room, pulled of my helmet leaving my ear plugs in and plopped down on the bed. I immediately went to sleep and awoke an hour and a half later, groggy but refreshed. It was just what the Doctor ordered and it would allow me to reach my goal for the day, get out of California. I always opt to take the long way round Los Angeles when heading to or from the S.F. Bay Area, so I continued East on Hwy 46 to Hwy 99, then Hwy 58 over Tehacaphi pass. This time I decided to head to Barstow and take a route past Joshua Tree National Park and rejoin 10, for the remainder home. I hadn’t taken this route yet and I am always willing to ride and extra hour or two, just to avoid Dante’s tenth level of Hell, Southern California.
Temperatures varied from the low 40’s to the low 80’s, through out the ride and as I made my way through Palm Springs, the sun began to set. During Daylight Savings time I always feel robbed of ride time, as the days grow short during the winter months. With 100 miles to Bltyhe, Ca on the Az border I was reading a half a tank of fuel. This should be perfect, allowing me to arrive in Blythe with a near empty tank.
Empty Tank. Note: The trip meter is off as I forgot to reset it when I left Tracy. Actual mileage was obtained from my GPS and Streets and Trips. Average MPG was 42, the clock is set on Central time.
With 578 miles on the odometer, I made my way to the Best Western Sahara in Blythe, 12 hours from my start time, with a cramp in my right hand. With 1/3 of my trip complete, I thought it was a good time to call it a day and get some rest. If all goes well, I will make it to the ranch by Dinner Sat night. I think the next time I head out, I will take a double dose of Vitamin “C” to help get me through the day.
Streets and Trips Map of my route 598 Miles
Its time to head back to Texas. I’ve had my fill of the Middle West and am looking forward to returning home. You can follow me by checking my SPOT Tracker page.
Tomorrow I have an appointment to get some new meat on my ST. As you can see I had enough tread to make it from Texas to California but now it is getting a little dicey. I just have to make it to Fremont Kawaksaki Honda tomorrow and life will be good.
Metzler Road Tec tire with 12k miles
I arrived safe and sound in California and I will take a break from Posting while I visit friends, take care of business and have fun. I plan on heading back to Texas on Nov 20th and will be running my SPOT tracker on the way home.
For more pics of the Deming Gathering….go here: http://tinyurl.com/6xmgw7
California here I come! I left Tempe Arizona to meet my friend Troy Strothers in Mesa, for what Troy describes as the best Indian Food in Arizona. This got me off to a late start but I didn’t want to miss an opportunity to see Troy. Since Troy owed me a dinner, he thought he would treat me to the buffet at Guru Palace. I met up with Troy at the restaurant, after getting a replacement wall charger for my cell phone. There happened to be a wireless store conveniently located next door, so it saved me a lot of time. I was running out of phone juice as my USB phone charger took a dump and I had to McGyver it yesterday to my Cousins car battery to charge it. With that out of the way, it was time to eat.
The Guru Palace
Lunch Buffet Menu Board
Troy, fellow member of Sharkhunters International stuffed full of curry
You can see by the menu pic, there is a wide selection of Indian foods to choose from. If you are unifamiliar with Indian Cuisine, it is a great way to go to find out what you like. I concentrated on the Tandoori Chicken, Curry Chicken and pureed eggplant, accompanied by some rice and Nann, a variation of flat bread. I must say, Troy was right on, the food there was fantastic! I highly recommend a visit if you are in the Phoeniz area, you won’t be dissapointed.
After lunching with Troy I began making my way to I-10. As I reached the junction of Hwy 60 and I-75, I decided to go north. It would be longer in distance to California but more scene, taking me through more hilly terrain past Prescott and into Flagstaff. From there I would work my way to Seligman and then onto Kingman Az for the night. It was 57 degrees when I left Phoeniz and it quickly cooled as I passed Prescott. This portion of I-75 is also known as the Arizona Veterans Highway, which I thought befitting since tomorrow would be Veterans Day. As I reached 7,000 feet in elevation, the presence of snow littered the hills and edges of the road. I looke at my thermometer and it show 39 degrees and dropping.
Mini Zeke enjoys the view while I put on my cold weather gear
As I reached Flagstaff, there was heavy dark overcast, threatening rain or snow. The temperature now read 34 degrees and Ice warnings were posted on overpasses and bridges. I stopped briefly to put on my winter gloves, balacava and jacket liner and water the trees. There is something about cold air that makes me have to empty my tanks in regular fashion. I had my electric vest but of course I left the connector back at the ranch. Although I could use the electric, it had pretty good insulating qualities and it did a good job keeping me warm. I figured with the wind chill, it was equivelant to 25 degrees. In Flagstaff, there was even more snow on the ground and I made my transition to I-40, which would take me to Seligman.
Seligman is an old town, having its heyday during the Route 66 years, prior to the building of the interstate. Like many other towns and stops along Route 66, they withered on the vine as travelers no longer stopped for business. Over the last five year, Seligman has taken advatange of the nostalgia boom and has revitatlized the town, making it a must see and roadside novelty. There are good places to eat and the A&W there serves their root beer the old fashion way and has a distinct carmel flavor.
Looking south into town and getting dark
The A&W is located at the Chevron Station
Mustang Fuel stop and good burgers too!
As I got 10 miles from Seligman, it started to rain but I was dropping in elevation so the temperature warmed into the high 40’s. A heavy downpour ensued and it was working its way east. As I reached Seligman, the front passed over the town and the skies cleared up. I grabbed a quick bite and root beer at the A&W, took a few pictures and hit the old portion of Route 66, which leads to Kingman. It is about 55 miles to Kingman on Route 66 and since it is still a two laned highway, the speed limit is 65. As you leave Seligman westbound, you see the first of several “Burma Shave” signs.
If you are not familiar with the Burma Shave sign phenomenon, Wikipedia it.
Leaving Seligman Az on Route 66
Mini Zeke relaxes after a hard day
As the sun set, the skies grew dark quickly the temperatures dropped back down to the high 30’s. The ride was literally traffic free and the hills and sweeping curves made it a much more enjoyable ride that sticking with the interstate. I arrived in Kingman around 1930 hrs local time and checked into the Best Western Kings Inn and Suites after a 331 mile day. With my AAA discount, I got a King bed with mini-suite for $74 dollars. Mini Zeke thought the bed looked comfortable and immediately homesteaded a spot for himself and thought he would rest after four straight days of riding.
The days route 331 Miles
Well, tomorrow I enter my old home state to see friends and goof around. My goal is to hit Tracy, Calif around 1700 hrs, for a stay at my friends, Tony “Zega” Delgado. I have about 600 miles to cover on my selected route, so it will be a full day of riding of ten hours in the saddle. It will be Veterans day and my birthday and I can’t think of a better present to myself than a good long ride to see friends.
Day #3 consisted of riding from Deming to Phoenix via Tucson on I-10. It was a typical ride from point to point totalling 338 miles. My goal was to have lunch with my Cousin Dionne in Tucson and meet with friends, Ken Usher and Troy Strother in Phoenix for dinner. Ken and Troy are fellow members of Sharkhunters International and I met them both in Germany in Sept. They are two great guys and are well read on WW2 history.
Todays route
I reached Tucson around 1300 hrs and had a delightful lunch with Dionne at a local pub called Famous Sam’s Bar and Grill. It is located only three blocks east of N/B I-10 at exit 252. I sampled their 1/2 lbs Sam Burger which was tender a juicy but they only offered Pepsi so I opted for the iced tea and cole slaw in lieu of french fries. It was a good place to grab a bite and you can watch sports on the many flat screen televisions located within. Click on the photo to go to their website.
Famous Sam’s a good place for a burger or sandwich in Arizona
After catching up on family gossip, I made my way to Phoenix, 109 miles north of Tucson via I-10. Continuing construction zones hamper your progress with reduced speed zones. I noticed a storm front moving in from the west but the usual haze that signals a downpour looked different. With Easterly winds gusts increasing coupled with the tumbleweeds flying across the highway signalled a dust storm. I pulled over briefly 58 miles south of Phoeniz to assess the situation. Many RV’s and Harley Riders decided to take a break. According to the GPS I-10 veers N/E away from the storm front, so I decided to try and beat the heart of the storm.
A Storm’s a brewing!
Into the Abyss!
I caught the leading edge of the rain portion and 44 miles south of Phoenix, I hit the dust portion. I figured a few minutes more and the rain would combine with the dust into mud showers. I was caught in a brief stretch of 10 miles were visibility was greatly reduce, causing the traffic to slow to 25 MPH. I felt like a Hurricane Buster aircraft entering the eye of the storm when I broke through the dust into the sunlight. I could tell the winds were increasing but I was able to make it to the Best Western on Priest Dr before it got any worse.
Left to right; Zeke and Ken Usher. Ken is from England but now lives in the States
I called Troy who was called into work but was pleasantly surprised to find that Ken, who normally lives in Costa Mesa, Ca was visiting Troy. Ken made his way to the Hotel while I washed my riding shorts and socks in the sink and hung them to dry. Ken picked me up in his cage and took me to “The Streets of New York Pizza” restaurant. Troy had told me it was the best pizza he ever had and I think he was right. We ordered their signature pizza and washed it down with some Lager, combined with a full belly, made for sleepy time. I highly recommend you visit one soon, if you are in Arizona.
Hecka good pizza folks!
Tomorrow I make my way into California but I will try to hook up with Troy for lunch before leaving. I dread riding west towards Needles in the afternoon, as you are looking directly into the sun. Only 798 more miles before I hit Tracy, Ca and the home of my friend Tony “Zega” Delgado. I also notified my friend Pete Ullman of Fremont Kawasaki/Honda to get some Metzler tires ready for my bike, which will need new meat and oil for the rest of my trip.
In motels I usually sleep with my custom molded ear plugs in, to block out what I call “Motel Noise”. They work so great, I slept through my alarm causing me to over sleep one hour. With my planned start time pushed forward, my original route through the Lincoln National Forest on Hwy 70 would cause me to arrive in Deming later than I wanted. Also, the 30 degree temperatures in the high elevations caused me to rethink my route for a more direct one. So I let my GPS plan my route.
I left Hobbs NM at 0730 hrs and needed to cover 338 miles by 1300, so off I headed after my complimentary Best Western Breakfast. I topped off my tank, got a couple of bottles of water, a Red Bull and hit the highway. The temp was 45° and with the wind chill of 70 MPH it was a brisk equivalent of 31°. There was very little traffic on this back route, which would take me around the southern tip of the Guadalupe Mountain Range, as scenic a place as you can get for this part of New Mexico. There are very few places where you can take a pee along the road as trees are pretty sparse but on the flip side, there is very little traffic in these here parts.
The southern end of the Guadalupe Mountain Range
I did note the presence of quite a few LEO’s along this route. With wide open stretches dotted with hills and obstructed views, it is easy to get heavy on the throttle and get caught on radar as you crested a rise. Fortunately, most of the motorists in their cages going the opposite way, flashed their head lights as warnings of the LEO’s ahead. I heeded these warnings and adjusted my rate of travel accordingly. I waved as I passed the stationary guardians, who eagerly waived back. I took the liberty of putting their locations on my route map, just in case you may frequent those stretches.
The route filled with LEO’s, 338 miles
As I reached the Guadalupe Mountains, I made a mental note of places I should return too and camp. When I descended from the south end of the mountain range and into the salt flats west bound on Hwy 180, I saw a middle aged rider on a GL1800 stopped along the side of the Hwy headed east. I saw the rider motion two other riders to continue on past him. I assume they were his friends and he just stopped to adjust some gear. His two buddies obliged continuing on and as I reached his location, he fell over on his bike. It looked like he “thought” he put his kick stand down but it wasn’t. I began a rapid deceleration and made a U-turn to help him lift up the 1,000 plus pound machine. He, “Benny” was from Texas too and thanked me for my timing. I gave him my business card and rode off like the Lone Ranger, having done my good deed for the day.
Help he’s fallen and he can’t get up! Benny and his Honda Gold Wing GL 1800.
Well, I arrived at Don Cameron’s home in Deming, NM at 1330 hrs. As each rider arrived, heads would turn to check out who and what was riding in. Riders seemed to congregate with others who had similar machines, to discuss the various aspects of what they ride and the latest gadgets. One bike caught my eye, as it had a Blue Knights decal on the back with Texas plates. I quickly introduced myself to my fellow Knight and learned that Dave was with the Border Patrol. We had a great conversation, broke bread together and exchanged contact info.
A Blue Knight that actually rides!
Upon arrival, each rider registered and got a name tag. Each rider was also given a door prize ticket and told to put a pin in the map of the United States, showing where you rode in from. Seemed like Washington and Michigan were the farthest points of origin. During this time the piston toss and slow ride games were being played. The tranquility was sometimes interrupted with the report of a Muzzle loading rifle, being fired in the back on Don’s yard.
As riders arrived, pins showed where they rode in from
A steady stream of riders continued arriving until about 1600 hrs, the proposed dinner time. Well this was a Ride to Eat situation and some folks are serious about the eating part, arriving just in time to be served. The food was BBQ sirloin roasts, with homemade beans, potato salad, rolls, sliced onions and a jalapeño relish, along with two kinds of scrumptious brownies. There was plenty of cold beverage in all forms for all and all stomachs were fill and satisfied.
My friends Bob Hole with Bill Androws from Ca, fellow members of GWRRA Chapter CA2Q
Piston Toss game
Slow ride competition
Don Cameron our gracious and generous host
A “Gaggle” of LD Riders
After the games and meal, a raffle was held and the two top prizes were a new helmet and $256 in cash. An equal amount of cash was donated to help the local VFW to help with the costs of transporting fallen soldiers. Recognition was paid to all of the veterans present and the upcoming birthday of the Marine Corps. As the sun quickly settled, the temperature dropped and jackets were donned. A fire was started and we all congregated around it like moths around a flame. With bellies full and socializing done, riders began to disappear into the dark from where they came,in typical LD Rider fashion.
Bellies full and enjoying the warmth of the fire
This was a great event, a gathering of those who have discovered the Zen of Long Distance riding. It is the epitome of what LD riding is all about…good people, good times, good food and the quest for the ultimate ride. Hope to see you next year!
Greetings!
Well today I left for another RTE (Ride to Eat) in Deming New Mexico, for the Veterans Day Gathering. Where else can you get a BBQ steak, beans, play a piston toss game and slow ride challenge on mini bikes for only $10 bucks? 145 Long Distance Riders have registered so it should be a good event at which to swap lies and check out who and what they rode. Click the link to see who all is going.
http://www.deminggathering.com/2008%20registered.htm
The route
I left Georgetown around 1100 hrs for my first leg of 433 miles to Hobbs N.M., where I am staying the night. You can see by my route I avoided the interstates as much as possbile. The weather at the start was fantastic, in the high 70’s and clear as a bell. By the time I had reached the N.M. border, the temperature had dropped to 48 degrees and was still dropping when I checked into the Motel. I had drank three cups of coffee at Bar None before leaving, which would plague me later on.
All was well until I hit Santa Ana Texas, when I had to void my bladder. I had been holding my coffee by-product since Georgetown. I rode to the FINA fuel station on Hwy 84, a usual stop on this route only to find the bathroom was out of order. I was directed to the nearest Dairy Queen and my timing couldn’t have been more perfect. As I ripped off my helmet, pulled out my ear plugs and ran cross legged into the dining area I found a disabled chap heading the same way. I couldn’t work my around him as he slithered towards the bathroom blocking my path. I figured it would have been bad taste to run him over. Due to the extent of his disability, I knew he would be taking the longest time for the shortest task and I watch helplessly as he made his way into the one holer first, locking the door behind him. All etiquette went out the window, as I went into the womens facility to decaffinate myself. I was able to make it out without catching any glares, so I decided to order a burger to go. I ate the burger standing in the parking lot, in order to stretch my legs. All joking aside, even though I was cursing that fine chap as he hindered my, I was thankful my troubles were miniscule in comparison.
I continued my ride and made it almost to Abilene when the burger started to give me the nods. I stopped at a picnic area and laid on one of the tables and power napped for about 20 minutes. The short nap refreshed me and took care of the nods. My next stop was in Snyder, Texas to fuel up. I saw some plastic army men paratroopers at the counter for 49 cents, so I picked up two. One to deploy and the other to keep me company. I played with the two, in keeping with the upcoming Veterans Day spirit and ate my ice cream drumstick, while getting occasional stares from the other customers. Later on, I let one of the paratroopers go at 70 MPH but his chute didn’t hold. If you find you way between Gail and Snyder, Texas on Hwy 180, keep an eye out for an MIA!
Lt. Mini Zeke
I began reaching the west Texas border as the sun was going down. For about 30 minutes I was riding directly into the burning orb but as it reached the horizon, it reminded me why I like to ride.
Westbound Hwy 180 west of Gail Texas.
Well early to bed. I have about 379 miles to cover, planning to arrive at the BBQ around 1400 hrs. I will stay in Deming that night and flip a coin to determine my route to California, for a 1,200 mile jaunt to see old friends and just fart around. You can check out my progress via Satellite Tracker until my return around the 22nd or 23rd by checking the “Where’s Zeke Page”.
SPOT Tracker Map to Deming, using the Check OK mode.
Here is an example of creative things to do with old watches. Enjoy!
The EAA’s Boeing B-17G, Flying Fortress, “Aluminum Overcast”
A flying example of the venerable Boeing B-17 “Flying Fortress” will be visiting Georgetown Munincipal Aiport from Oct 30th through Nov 2nd, 2008. This B-17 (Aluminum Overcast) is one of two owned and operated by the EAA, Experimental Aircraft Association. The EAA offers tours and rides. All proceeds go to keeping these historical aircraft flying and helps to preserve their and our own rich national history.
Click on the Nose Art for more information about the visit.
Nose Art
I took my Daughter with me to ride the EAA’s other bird, “Fuddy Duddy” and it was a unique experience due to our family history. Once aloft, you are free to move about to all the different crew positions.
To learn more about the EAA click of the photo of “Fuddy Duddy”
“Fuddy Duddy” B-17G. The “G” model was descernable by it’s chin turret and became the standard model used in the European Theater by 1944.
After WW2, thousands of B-17’s await desctruction to be sold as scrap. Many a boys owed their lives to the Bombers ruggedness and it’s ability to bring ‘em home alive. You can see in the bottom right foreground, a B-17 from the 351st Bomb Group, descerneable the the Triangle “J” on its tail.
If you’ve seen some of my previous posts, you’ll see I spent 30 days in Europe with my friends, Tony Delgado and Dan Harvey. This was a two part trip which included the countries of England, France, Belgium, Luxembourg, The Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Croatia and Italy.
Dan and Tony after we left Oktoberfest in Munchen (Munich).
After visiting various Military Historical sites in England, we retraced the WW2 Allied Line of March into Germany from D-Day onward. Later in Munich, Germany, we joined a 15 day tour called the “Southern Patrol” sponsored by “Sharkhunters International Inc.”
“Sharkhunters” is a Military/Historical Organization to which we belong and has 7,000 members. Some of our members are former German and Austrian Veterans and Dignitaries, which gave us access to areas closed to the public since the end of WW2. You can visit my “Other Sites” section or click on the logo above to find out more about Sharkhunters.
Destruction of the Nazi symbol at the Zeppelinfield in 1945
Hitler’s Tribunal at the Zeppelinfield, Nuremberg Germany 2008
For a taste of what we saw and did on the “2008 Southern Patrol”, click on the picture below. It’ll take you to the “Sharkhunters” page where pictures of our tour are still being added. Just scroll down the page and click on the various photos to see more.
Special Dinner Menu prepared for us at an Austrian Castle
We all carry our mobile phones with names & numbers stored in its memory but nobody, other than ourselves, knows which of these numbers belong to our closest family or friends.
If you were involved in an accident or taken ill, EMS personnel would have your mobile phone but wouldn’t know who to call. You have a ton of numbers stored on your phone but which one is the contact person in case of an emergency? Also, your friends and family may have important medical information about you, which could save time and your life.
Now, there is a new Universal method to help EMS contact your loved ones, its called I.C.E. (In Case of Emergency).
The concept was thought up by a paramedic who found that when he went to the scenes of accidents, there were always mobile phones with patients, but they didn’t know which number to call. Thus, the concept of I.C.E. was born.
In an emergency situation, Emergency Service personnel and hospital Staff would be able to quickly contact the right person by simply dialing the number you have stored as “ICE.” The concept of “ICE” is catching on and EMS personnel will be taught to look for itl.
All you need to do is store the number of a contact person or persons who should be contacted during emergency under the name “ICE” ( In Case Of Emergency). For more than one contact name simply enter ICE1, ICE2 and ICE3 etc.
It’s a great idea that will make a difference! Spread the concept of ICE by storing an ICE number in your Mobile phone. ICE will speak for you when you Can’t.
For my take on the LOE 1000 rally, click here.
After one Month in Europe, its good to be back home but its time to head out again.
I leave tomorrow to ride in the Land Of Enchantment 1000 Rally in New Mexico, for three days of fun and excitement. I am scrambling to get the ST 1300 ready with a quick oil change and pack. Its a short 688 mile ride to Los Lunas and I need to make the Tech Inspection on Friday. The rally runs from Oct 3rd through the 5th, click the ride logo for details.
I had trouble uploading to my Web Server while in Europe due to Gremlins but It’s now resolved, so look for upcoming posts with pics from Europe. I will try to catch up in the Motel room at night while on the road.
Oh, back to my old self again. I cut off a year worth of hair growth and my pony tail before leaving for Europe. The novelty of having long hair lost out to practicality.
Ciao!
Make sure you have important information on your body when you ride. In case the worst happens, you can save valuable time and your own life by having important medical information about yourself, and emergency contacts. Laminate it and put it in your wallet or at least put one your bike.
You can print out a FREE card here: FREE MEDICAL ALERT WALLET CARD
Well, my initial plans on doing daily posts went to the wayside after reaching France. The inability to get a good internet connection in Belgium, France and Luxemburg was frustrating. It sure makes me appreciate the infrastructure we enjoy in the States.
My digital camera quit working in Amsterdam, so I bought another and that one failed in Germany, when I broke the display screen. I was able to buy a replacement in Nuremburg Germany, so I am on my third camera for this trip.
My computer started acting up with IO errors, or registry problems. This prevented me from uploading pics to my site. During a back up process of my photos, I lost all my pictures from Polebrook, most of Normandy, Belgium and Luxemburg. Since Dan and Tony took pretty much the same pictures, I will get copies of theirs. The loss of the Polebrook images were most upsetting, as I’d captured images from a different perspective than my friends, due my personal connection to the site.
I will bring you up to date so far and will write a Page later with galleries of the things I have seen during this trip. I have uploaded what I could for now.
After leaving London, we took a train to Portsmouth England for a day’s visit, seeing the HMS Victory and learning the History of England’s Navy. We also visited Spinnaker tower, rising almost 1000 feet above the ground. A storm rolled into the area, which threatened our high speed ferry ride to the Normandy coast the next morning.
As we hit the Ferry Terminal in Portsmouth harbor, the weather had let up but the water in the channel was still rough. When we checked in for the ride the ticket agent had a laugh and told us we would be in for a wild ride on the “Vomit Comet”. This joke would some come to fruition as a good portion of the passengers began vomiting in mass, less than 20 minutes into our ride. The crew was kept busy donned with surgical gloves, rolls of paper towels and mops. Fortunately us Americans did not join or British and French friends. Tony pulled his jacket over his head and buttoned down like a turtle for the 3 hour ride, trying to block out the surrounding mayhem.
This British Bird decided that it would be more fun to move into the empty seat next to us and fill her sea sickness bag in our vicinity.
We hit Normandy and visited the D-Day sites, museums and sites of some of the battles following the U.S. Armies route of march into Germany. Upon leaving France, we missed our train connection in Paris, having to rent a one-way car to make it to Belgium to salvage our trip. No one told us there were three train stations in Paris. By the time we realized this, we had no time to reach to other station for the transfer. My image of Paris was tarnished by the crowded conditions, body odor of its people and the smell of urine in every doorway. Note to self; erase Paris from your list of places to visit.
In Belgium, we visited Bastogne, site of the famous Battle of the Bulge. We checked out the museum and memorial and even located fox holes within the surrounding forests, previously manned over 60 years ago by the 101st Airborne.
101st Airborne Division foxholes along the road leading to Foy, near Bastogne
The countryside surrounding Bastogne, Belgium. Its hard to believe one of the largest battles of WW2 once took place in such a serene location.
The U.S. Military Memorial in Bastogne
The following day, we visited the U.S. Military cemetery and German cemetery in Luxemburg. The U.S. cemetery was immaculate and its grounds were extremely well manicured. I was able to locate Patton’s grave and the visit there was somber and allowed for some reflection. The German graveyard was in stark contrast, as the grave markers had a dark patina, compared to the bright white luster of the U.S. markers. As the German were not the most popular group of soldiers during their time, four soldiers were buried in each grave and thus not as well maintained.
The entrance to the U.S. Military Cemetery in Luxemborg
The German Military Cemetery, Luxemborg
From Luxemburg we made our way via train into Germany, to join the Shark Hunters 15 day tour. After two days in Munich, we made our way to Nuremburg. Nuremburg in an ancient city with it’s heart surrounded by a formidable wall. There we received a private tour by one of our members, Michael, Vice Mayor of the city. We visited the sites of the Nazi rallies and the spectacles put on in the Zeppelin fields and Stadium. We were taken into Hitler’s Chamber which is closed to the public and the courthouse site of the famous Nuremburg War Trials. Due to the over reaction of what the Nazi’s did and guilt of the German people, most of the historical sites of WW2 Germany were destroyed. As a student of world history, I found this disappointing.
Although the Nazi party is associated with some horrors, using the same logic would require you to destroy the Great Pyramids of Egypt because they were made with slave labor. Part of history in my mind is preserving all aspects of it so we do not repeat the same mistakes. There is a quote which says “Those who do not remember the past are doomed to repeat it”. I find this manifesting itself today in our own governments censorship of the “911” photographs from the American public. I thought we had learned valuable lessons from WW2 on this same subject but we are repeating the same mistakes. Sorry to get political but I cannot ignore the irony.
Anyway, Nuremburg is a gem of Germany and if you ever plan a visit to this country, you should plan at least a couple of days there. Today, we have boarded the bus and are on our way to visit Austria and the Alps. Due to the tech difficulties I have experienced, I will reserve posting my photos to a later time and format.
I can say I have made some new friends and my new associations will provide great contacts for my future travels. I hope you will revisit my site after I resolve my lap top issues, to enjoy some of the sites I have seen.
That’s all for now. Aufwedersehen.
We arrived in Amsterdam from the most adventurous part of our trip. We had two days to relax with nothing formal planned to unwind and rest for the 15 day tour.
This is the first net connection I’ve had in days. I cannot upoload pics to my site and with spotty web connection, I have to keep this short.
Amsterdam is a place of total debauchery and visually stunning so it can be overwhelming.
I found a free Wi-Fi spot called the “Dolphins Cafe” Coffee Shop. It is smokey in here and no one is drinking coffee.
Don’t know when I can get another connection, so check in once in a while.
We’re off to London, or are we? Sept 1st and 2nd, 2008
Well the trip got off to a slow start as Air Force One was readying for take off. G.W. was in town so we sat on the ground for an hour while they prepped for take off. Our flight was delayed by over an hours and some of the folks missed their connection in Atlanta. Fortunately for me, it made my layover only 1/2 hour. Above is a picture of the First Class cabin as we partied with Champagne and Mimosa’s during our wait.
In flight ditty bag with sleep mask, slippers, ear plugs, bottle water, Mimosa and personal comfort items.
If you ever get a chance and get a good deal like I did, try to fly first class especially on over seas flights. The leather chairs fully recline and have lumbar support, foot rests and turn into beds along with the other amenities, which allow you to arrive fresh after your long flight. The food is definitely better and you get real silverware and glasses.
Each seat is equipped with its own media screen and power ports for your devices. Movies and cocktails are included in your price. I played In-flight Trivia against the other passengers and had the highest score after ten rounds. The questions were pretty hard and I sucked at the questions pertaining to Music and Sports. Fortunately, they had an equal amount of questions on History, Aviation and Science which kept me in the lead.
Trivia game. I also watched the movie “Iron Man”.
In flight menu. I had the Moroccan Crab Salad as an appetizer with a fresh garden salad w/balsamic dressing, the Grilled Beef Tenderloin with Shrimp Scampi with Grilled Vegetable Medley, Lemon Risotto and Cabernet wine. The scrumptious meal was followed by a cup of coffee and double scoop Chocolate Ice Cream Sundae. I tried to sleep but was still on Texas time, so I remained wide awake the whole flight. For breakfast I had an Omelet with Croissant, Fruit, Coffee and Juice.
After an 8 hour flight from Atlanta, Ga, I arrived in London at 0700 hrs their time and got some British Pounds. With the exchange rate, it was like getting 48 cents for every U.S. dollar. After clearing customs which took only 5 minutes, I took a quick 28 minute train ride to downtown London and a short cab ride to the Hotel. Weather was stereotypical British with clouds and light rain.
I got enough cash for some immediate needs and plan to use credit cards as much as I can, which give you a better exchange rate. I took an express train which is more expensive but the regular train can take up to an hour and Taxis can take up to 2 hrs with traffic. Note: London Taxis are some of the most expensive in the world.
Victoria Station. Everything thing you need is here, shopping food, banks, bars, train station and Underground (Subway).
The Underground…also used during the Blitz (1940) in for bomb shelters.
Inside the subway car. At commute time they can be packed solid, requiring some flexibility and plenty of deodorant. Dan checks the train route map to make sure we are on the right line. It takes about two days to get acclimated to money and public transportation.
85-89 Belgrave St (Best Western Hotel), about a 5 block walk to Victoria Train Station and Underground. London is one of the most expensive cities in the world, so plan on paying twice the normal rate for a hotel compared to the U.S. Standard rooms start at $200 a night. I pre-paid mine in advance, so got my room for about half price. The downside is if you cancel, there is no refund. There are Best Western chains Worldwide and are at least clean with Free Wi-fi and breakfast.
View north from the Hotel towards Victoria station. Just about every doorway is a hotel in whats considered an upper class neighborhood. London must have had only one Architect with a one track mind. Homes here cost around 3 millions pounds or 6 million U.S. I thought California was expensive. I later learned that Pimlico Underground station was just 300 yards the other way, saving us 5 minutes of walking.
European rooms are about 1/3 the size of what you are use to in the U.S., as is the bathroom. If you are over 6ft, good luck on the smaller beds.
If you reserve a single room, you get a room with two single beds. Double rooms have double beds.
Bathrooms are about the size of two phone booths, which includes the shower. For scale, the little trash can is about 10 inches tall. Just throw in an empty water bottle and its ready to be emptied.
Within the hour of my check-in, Tony and Dan arrived and we secured their luggage in my room until theirs was ready and headed out for our first adventure, the Royal Air Force Museum. Go to my page title, Royal Air Force Museum to see more.
After we finished the RAF museum, I had my first pint of beer and English meal. Most travelers recommend eating at Pubs, which offer full menus and items are often cheaper than sit down restaurants. Tony and Dan ordered the Fish N Chips and I ordered the Meat Pie filled with lamb, gravy and mushrooms. Each dish was about 7 pounds or $14 U.S. The food was really great. Beer is around 3 pounds of $3 X 2.
Meat Pie and Fish N Chips.
Travel Advisory. Vehicular traffic in England is opposite of the States. So when you step off the curb, you need to look right and not left. It can be more confusing at intersections, especially where up to five different roads can intersect. I almost got hit twice the first day and soon learned my lesson. Best bet is to obey the Ped crossing signals to avoid any conflict. Besides, I finally realized I was here on vacation and had no need to hurry.
Londoner’s thought us Yanks needed help from getting ourselves killed.
After Supper, we went back to Victoria station to walk off our meal. Tony stopped to talk to a Tour Bus driver. We were told we could take a double decker open top bus on a 2 hr ride for 14 pounds. We decided it would be a good way to get oriented and see what we may want to check out in earnest, later on.
View from the bus. It dropped down to the mid 50’s at night. Bring a jacket!
Trafalgar Square
St Paul Cathedral. During the London Blitz this church was surrounded by a tremendous firestorm. Churchill ordered the symbol to be defended at all costs and it was. Known as the Alamo of London.
Thames river, Big Ben, the London Eye (900 ft tall Ferris Wheel) and London bridge.
Big Ben with the London Eye in the background.
By the time we got back to the Hotel, we had been non-stop since we left our homes over 24 hrs prior. We retired to the hotel and fell quickly asleep, so I thought. I woke up wide awake at 0130 hrs, or 7 p.m. Texas time. I was able to get back to sleep but awoke again four hours later, ready to go. Stay tuned for more and I am working on the pages with photos from the Royal Air Museum and my main motivation for coming to London, the Imperial War Museum.
Cheers!
Invasion Europa!
I will be taking my first trip to Europe on Labor Day, flying to London England to meet Dan Harvey and Tony Delgado. I’ve put together our own version of a Military Tour of Western Europe, as we work our way to join a 15 day organized tour of Germany. No plans to ride Moto’s but we will be using all the other modes of transportation, plane, train, boat, bus and car.
Click on the link for a PDF itinerary of the first half of our trip. The highlight for me will be visiting Martin Jones who lives in the village of Polebrook, England and the remnants of my Dad’s former bomber base and home of the 351st Bomb Group.
I will try to Post pics daily as we make our way to Munich. Once in Munich (Munchen) we link up with my friend Chris Banda and the 15 day Sharkhunters Tour.
For details of the second half of our trip which puts us back in Munich for Oktoberfest, go here:
Well there has been at least two bits of good news this year. One, Honda may finally introduce the Varadero to the U.S., the other is one of my favorite movies “The Day The Earth Stood Still” (TDTESS) is finally being remade.
Original lobby card, Circa 1951
For its time it was the cutting edge of Sci-Fi movies, winning an Academy Award for special effects. In the original story line, an advanced Alien Being arrives on Earth sent by a Federation of other planets who have been watching Earth’s technological advancement. With the advent of space travel and nuclear fission, it is feared that Earths violent ways will reach out into the Universe. The Alien “Klattu” is accompanied by a Robot named “Gort”, who has irrevocable power to destroy anything that acts with violence, including whole planets and its own Masters. Klattu’s mission is to deliver Earth a warning to fly right or face obliteration.
Klattu (Michael Renee) and GORT
The story line is prophetic with an excellent script and cast. By todays standards, it might seem a little campy but it was way ahead of its time. The story was actually based on a short story called, “Farewell to the Master” and had a somewhat different story line but the message was the same.
Visitors from Space and the Media Circus.
The Ultimate Movie Robot, GORT
I grew up with this film but since I wasn’t born until 1957, so I only saw it on television screen. In 2003, I saw the movie at the Stanford Film festival in Palo Alto California on a real movie screen, which made it a whole new experience. “The Day The Earth Stood Still” ranks as one of the top ten films ever made, in my mind. It was for that reason that is hasn’t been remade. It will be a challenge to top the original except for the special effects. It will be interesting to see how close they stick to the story line and how well Keannu Reeves plays Klatuu in the remake. Oops! I gave some of it away.
To be released Dec 2008
I recommend you buy or rent the original first. If you do watch it, realize when it was made and what was going on in 1951 before you criticize it. The remake may be as good as the first, or they will screw it up. We’ll just have to wait and see. “Klatuu, Barada, Nikto”.
Check out Buell’s latest contribution to Law Enforcement riding. Although is doesn’t seem well suited for catching speeders, it has its niche. It would be a great way to patrol built up urban areas or for rural applications. I just hope the electrical systems can handle all the bells and whistles.
The Buell Ulysses Police XB12XP
Click on the pics to learn more.
I heard a Rumor from the Sales Rep for “First Gear” that Honda will introduce the venerable Varadero into the U.S. Market. If you can confirm this, shoot me an e mail so I can get in line.
The Honda Varadero
Ever since I moved to Hill Country, folks have been recommending I go to the German Restaurant in Walburg, Texas. Reports of entertainment, good food and an outdoor Beer Garden were enticing but no one could give me the name, except for the German restaurant in Walburg. Of course, I put it on my list of Hill Country places to eat. Coincidentally, ride partner Bob Head’s Birthday was in the chute so his mom wanted to have a celebratory lunch there. Time to kill two birds with one stone…Pay homage to my aging friend and RTE.
Now, how to make a 16 mile trip as the Crow flies into an interesting ride to eat. First, I tried to find the exact name of the restaurant to pin point its location for navigation purposes. Well this was easy enough, as Walburg is a small town, small town, small town. Did I mention Walburg was a small town? Anyway, Google revealed the restaurant was named the “Walburg Restaurant”. With a visit to the website, I got a preview of the menu, a few trivial facts and its location. I learned they have a lunch Buffet, which is the best way to sample as much of the menu as you can, in just one shot.
I left the ranch allowing about an hour to make the 1200 hr lunch rendezvous with Bob, his mom and friends, Alma and Eric. Alma and Eric thought it a bit hot for a ride and since Bob had his mom, they would be arriving in cages. For those not familiar with Motorcyclist jargon, “Cages” are a Moto term for an enclosed automobile. Riding solo, I stretched out the short ride by making a counter clockwise loop to Walburg and later back home.
The route, a 64 mile loop, clear, sunny and a cool 98 degrees
I first headed the opposite way on Hwy 195 into Florence hitting CR 2843. As all the roads in this area on the weekends, traffic was non-existent. The roads wind gently and undulate beneath you as you pass ranches, farms and unique properties. Other than the solitude and pleasant views, nothing unusual happened as I completed my first leg and crossed interstate 35. Taking the County roads towards Walburg, I made several pleasant discoveries.
First, I encountered the town of Schwertner. Located at the intersection of FM-2115 and 1105, it was pretty much shut down on Sunday. West of the intersection which I guess you would call down town Schwertner, were some stone buildings with character, abandoned, vacant and it seemed like such a waste. I looked in all directions of the compass and literally didn’t see another single sole. I paused at the corner store which looks like a great place to take a break, grab a snack or cold drink.
Schwertner, Texas N/E corner of FM-2115 and 1115.
FM-1115. I tried to heed the sign but I had the whole road to myself.
Working my way to Walburg, I continued south on FM-1115. There is debate over the meaning of FM as it pertains to roads. I think it either means “Farm Maintenance” but my friend Bob insists it means “Farmers Market”, a route used by Farmers to get their goods to market. Either way, they both sound good.
A few miles down the road, you come to an interesting town called “New Corn Hill”. Referred to as a Ghost Town, it is very interesting but I found it errie. There is a huge and beautiful church and cemetery worth visiting. I have no idea why I didn’t take a picture of the church but click on the mini church picture to learn more about this area.
The Church in New Corn Hill, Texas
Road to Walburg
Without much ado, I reached Walburg at 1150 hrs. I took some pics of the restaurant while waiting for Bob. I gave it about 15 minutes and called Bob, to learn he hadn’t even left the house yet. I hate it when people are late. Miffed as I worked to be punctual, I decided to get on my bike a ride for the next 30 minutes instead of waiting in the hot parking lot.
The restaurant and pretty much the whole town.
Interior of the inside dinning area. The Biergarten is located outside and is where the entertaining is done during the evenings and has a separate menu.
When I arrived back at the restaurant, Bob his mom, Eric and Alma were standing in line at the buffet. I quickly joined them and picked my way through the line. There are many native German selections but I most enjoyed the roasted potatoes and the Jaeger Schnitzel. Jaeger means Hunter in German and Schnitzel pretty much means a meat cutlet, so you can figure out the translation. Jaeger Schnitzel is a boneless pork cutlet pounded flat, breaded, pan fried and covered in a dark mushroom based gravy.
Das Jaeger Schnitzel
I ate until I was stuffed making two trips through the buffet line. I polished it all off with an Apple Strudel and coffee. The food here is great and I recommend you make reservations if coming in the evening but lunch or brunch doesn’t seem to be a problem. Bob’s mom Angie, paid for the lunch so it was one of the best food values I’ve had in a while.
With a full belly and satisfied with another successful RTE, I quickly made my way home and was soon napping my Schnitzel away.
I will have to fall in line with the others and recommend this as a food destination if you find yourself in the Georgetown area. The food is authentic, good and reasonably priced. I will have to make a return trip when I am not riding to see what the Biergarten is about. I will be in Munich or Munchen for the Octoberfest next month, so I will have a benchmark to make any final comparisons.
For more information about Walburg Restaurant, click on the link in the second paragraph.
Auf Wiedersehen!
This is a great event held in Las Lunas N.M. every Oct. It was the first Rally I entered, a great way to get a Saddle Sore 1000 certification, have fun, meet some great folks and fellow riders. Due to a cancellation of my Military Service Reunion, I will be entering again this year. Each year features a different ride theme.
One of the highlights and bonus locations is the Trinity Site, the location of the first Atomic Bomb Test. Th
