|
Wanderers Newsletter |
|
Wanderers Newsletter |
Congratulations to our New Officers
Rod Fleming, President
Greg Huber, Vice President
Rose Fleming, Secretary
Gary Steinweg, Treasurer
Honorary Board Members
John
Q. Lawrence, Webmaster
Pat
Sammarco, Newsletter Editor
Bill
Edwards, (Past President) Advisor
WANDERERS GENERAL MEETING
April 27th , 2002
Location: Country Choice Restaurant
ATTENDING: Bill Edwards; Dick Useted; Gary Steinweg; Greg &
Seanna Huber; Ron Growel; Pat Sammarco; Chris Brown; Mike Calderone; Kent Saxon; Quintin Bradley; Jim Hockett;
Don Presten; Rob Matias & Maureen (can’t read the last name---sorry); Rod & Rose Fleming; John Q. Lawrence;
Thomas Cassidy; Joe Durham; Barry Borden; Gery Marcelino; plus new members---Bill & Debbie Ball; Carole Helstrom;
Al Sessler; Leon Smeiska & Joy Harris. Also present was Rod’s mother Ruby Briggs.
Meeting
called to order by Bill Edwards at 10:00
AM.
MINUTES: John Q. made a motion that the minutes be accepted as
posted on the website; Rod seconded. Reading of the minutes was thus dispensed with.
TREASURER’S
REPORT: Gary gave us a brief overview
of the state of the club treasury, to which I will sum up by saying, “We have $400 +/- after we set aside the newsletter
expenses of $300 for the year.” The reason for the vagueness is because Gary was taking in money at breakfast for
dues & patches, so he didn’t have a to-the-penny accounting. (More about the disposition of the funds later.)
Rose motioned that we accept the treasurer’s report as posted and as summed up; Dick seconded. Motion passed.
OLD BUSINESS: None
TOY RUN: Ron Growel had a pretty detailed report of the last
Toy Run Committee’s
meeting all prepared, but since these points
were already released to the Wanderer’s
membership via the website, he limited himself
to giving us an abbreviated version:
1. Pauma Casino has been confirmed as the destination point
for the ride. They are generously offering to provide food and maybe some other goodies (hats, coupons, etc.).
There is a spacious parking lot, and there will be a few port-a-potties for the use of people under the age of
18, since they will not be allowed inside the casino.
2. Pins and shirts will be offered at the end point as
well as at the beginning.
3. St. Vincent de Paul and Father Joe will continue to be
the recipients of the riders’ generosity.
4. Suggestions are still being taken for the shirt design.
5. The Wanderers will have a booth again this year.
6. John Q. will emcee.
7. Don Presten has offered to put together the media representation
this year, so as to be sure that the ride gets the appropriate image. There was some concern as to the correctness
of the media focus last year.
8. There will be an e-mail list for the Toy Run. If any
member is aware of other clubs or charitable organizations that might be interested in subscribing, sponsoring
or participating, e-mail Ron.
NEW BUSINESS: John Q. handed out silver pins to all members present
that have either joined the club recently or renewed their membership. He also passed around one of the gold pins
so the club could see them, drool, and make plans to qualify for one as soon as they could.
John also
had the results of the poll, which was
taken on the website. Basically, the Wanderers are a bunch of people who need ONE DAY’S (hour’s) notice to ride
SAFELY for a FULL DAY, in a GROUP on MOST ANY KIND OF ROAD, as long as it’s MINIMAL FREEWAY, leaving from EAST
COUNTY (as in El Cajon), and stopping at a MOM & POP TYPE RESTAURANT. The Wanderers are mostly LEADERS, who
nevertheless would take an ADVANCED RIDERS COURSE to improve their skills.(Secretary’s note: Pretty accurate description,
I think.)
Chris Brown
announced that he would be returning
to Africa, and that the Wanderers “Colors” would be photographed at the Equator-----very impressive!
RIDES:
1. Mike Calderone suggested a Photo-shoot Ride
for those who want to update their website picture, or who want to be added.
2. John Q. offered the suggestion that we hold
our own “Blessing of the Bikes” ceremony, which Tom Cassidy has agreed to perform. The ride could begin at South
Shores, and go up to Mt. Soledad for the ceremony, and then on to end point unknown.
3. Someone then had the idea of combining the
two rides, which appealed to everyone. Therefore, the two rides will be held simultaneously on June 1.
4. Rob Matias has been training for the Marathon
coming up on June 2. Since most of us couldn’t RUN it, Rod suggested that we ride the route and cheer Rob on. Rod
will research the route and announce details later.
Don Presten
initiated discussion about the Newsletter.
He pointed out that almost everyone had access to the Internet, and that it made little sense to continue sending
the Newsletter out in paper form. It was, therefore, an unnecessary and costly process. Instead, he proposed that
the Newsletter be given its own page on the website, and continue to be edited by Pat Sammarco. If anyone would
like it in paper form, it would be simple to just print it out and mail it to that person. Since the set-aside
for the newsletter expenses was about $300 per year, the electronic format would free up that money for other uses.
Don then made a motion to that effect; Rod seconded, and the vote was unanimous.
Voting for
new officers turned out to be very easy,
since there was only one candidate for each office, and no other nominations were forthcoming. John Q. made a motion
to accept the ballot as presented; Tom seconded. Motion passed unanimously.
New Officers
for 2002-2003 are as follows:
President Rod Fleming
Vice-President Greg Huber
Secretary Rose Fleming
Treasurer Gary Steinweg
John Q. motioned that meeting be adjourned; Rod
seconded. Meeting adjourned at 10:50.
Respectfully,
Rose Fleming
Secretary
5/8/02 newly elected Wanderers President Rod Fleming asked for
a meeting
of club officers for a sort of "passing
of the torch."
The meeting was held at O'Harleys in Poway,
a convenient location whether attendees worked or lived in North County or South Bay.
All members were invited.
Attending were:
President, Rod Fleming
Vice President Greg Huber
Former President Bill Edwards
Former Vice President Mike Calderone
Members, John Q. Lawrence, Ron Growel (also a
past President) and Kent Saxton
Some members who wanted to attend advised us
that they were broken down (and we're not talking motorcycles here) and couldn't join us.
Following
a brief ceremony (we all raised water
glasses in Bills general direction)
Some agenda items were discussed, decided
and dispensed with.
They were:
Item #1
Rides:
Official" (miles count toward gold pins)
Wanderers rides will be those submitted and approved at our general membership meetings and those submitted via
the "Suggest a Ride" form on the website (which are first submitted to club officers for approval) and
which are posted on the club website.
Impromptu rides, even when a large number of
Wanderers are riding will not be counted as "official" miles.
Why?
Mostly paperwork.
On any given weekend, club members may be gathering for dozens of rides
and we'd never be able to track them all. Bottom line, "Pin Miles" are rides posted on the Website. Exceptions
are Packards and Hot Rod show gatherings which are posted but not counted
Item 2, Pins
Members will be able to purchase additional club
pins for five dollars each, maximum two per member. Please see John Q at meetings or on rides for purchases and
please have checks made out to Gary Steinweg (club treasurer) for the correct amount. (reminder, each member receives
one free pin)
In lieu of automatically awarding club officers
gold (ride participation) pins for their efforts,
we will look into the design and purchase
of a unique design for officers.
Once a design and costs are known this matter
will be submitted to the full membership for a vote.
Item #3 Patches
We have sold almost all of our original order of patches (50) so will renew the supply. Cost of patches to members will stay at the current $25. The number of patches to be ordered is undetermined at this time.
Submitted by John Q, subbing for Secretary Rose Fleming
WANDERERS TREASURER RPT -
04/27/2002
1.
03/23
Last
Reported Balance=
$425.98
2.
03/23
New memb Kent Saxton /dues = $15.00(+)
3.
03/23
John Q - dues =
$15.00(+)
4.
03/23
Barry Borden - dues =
$15.00(+)
5.
03/23
Barry Borden - 1 patch =
$25.00(+)
6.
03/23
Greg & Seanna Huber - dues= $20.00(+)
7.
03/23
Greg Huber - 2 patches =
$50.00(+)
8.
03/23
Kevin & DeAnn Gayken dues = $20.00(+)
9.
03/23
Dick "Grumpy" Usted - dues=
$15.00(+)
10. 04/03 Quality Lapel
Pins - 75 Gold xtra = $75.00(-)
11.
04/03
Larry & Pat Sammarco - dues = $20.00(+)
12. 04/08 Robert Matias
& Maureen - dues = $20.00(+)
13.
04/10
New Leon Smeiska & Joy - dues = $20.00(+)
14.
04/10
Quintin & Peggy Bradley - dues = $20.00(+)
15.
04/10
Jim & Evelyn Hotz – dues =
$20.00(+)
16.
04/14
Ron Growel & Lorna - dues =
$20.00(+)
17.
04/18
Pat Sammarco - Apr newsletter = $21.02(-)
18.
04/18
John Q. - Campsite Reimburse = $46.00(-)
19.
04/18
New Al & Nancy Sessler - dues = $20.00(+)
20.
04/23
Carole & Scott Helstrom - dues = $20.00(+)
21.
04/23
Gary Steinweg - dues =
$15.00(+)
21.
04/27
Current
Balance =
$633.96
Notes:
1.
Available Funds:
Current treasury balance =
$633.96
Nwsltrs
thru 4/03 @ $25/mo set-aside
$300.00(-)
Available
=
$333.96
2. 44
paid memberships - 67 total members.
WANDERERS
PATCH ACCOUNT
SOLD
1.
03/23
Previous reported acct balance= $14.00(-) 37
2.
03/23
Barry Borden - 1 patch
=
$25.00(+) 38
3.
03/23
Greg & Seanna Huber/ 2patches=$50.00(+)40
4.
04/27
Current patch account balance = $50.00(+)
Avail
patches:
Don P - 4;
John Q -
4;
Rose F -2;
Avail =
10
Regards, Gary Steinweg
Wanderers Treasurer
New Members:
Aaron and Jeanne Adkinson
William and Debbie Ball
Joe Baker
Chris Brown
Michael DeMott
Mike Duckor
Joe Durham
Carole Helstrom & son Scott on a VW Trike
Joe & Cicci Miller
Eric Sass
Kent Saxton
Jonathan Semer
Al Sessler and Nancy on a ’02 1100 Yamaha Classic
Leon Smeiska & Joy
Upcoming Rides
We will be making an impromptu breakfast/brunch run to
the mountains this weekend, Mothers’ Day.Leaving Grossmont Starbucks at 9:00 AM on Sunday. Going through Ramona
at 9:30 for those wishing to join Greg Huber.
Friday, May 17th
The First Packards Night Of The Season!!!
Started several years ago by Wanderer Gary Steinweg, this
has become a regular chance for members and guests to "decompress" at the end of a long work week. Packards
nights are alternated through the summer with Thursday "Hot Rod" nights in La Mesa. There are generally
two launch points. East and South county riders meet at the Burger King Restaurant on Highway 67 in Lakeside for
a 6:15 pm launch (timed to arrive in Ramona around 7 pm) The other launch point is Highland Valley Road, just off
I-15 for North County riders. The group leaves the end of Highland Valley about 6:15, the same as the Lakeside
group for 7 pm arrival.
At Packards we gather
the tables together, sit around, sip coffee, soda or water, tell lies for about an hour then ride home. Mid summer
this is a special thing when it's very
warm, the moon is out and....well, you're
riders. You know.
Saturday, May 18th
We're going to a Chili Cook-off!! This is an all day ride. Our gathering spot is the familiar
Starbucks at Grossmont Center for an 8 am departure. We have a ways to go taking all back roads to San Juan Capistrano
for the 8th annual Chili Fest.
Kent Saxton will lead us, his general route is:
Grossmont Center,
2 Wildcat Canyon, 2 Hiland Drive, 2 Hwy 78, 2 Old Pala Rd, 2 North County Mall, 2 Lake Hodges, 2 Del Dios, 2 Nordall,
2 old 395, on West Laurel, to Couser Canyon, 2 Pala, 2 Temecula (fuel up & break at Swing Inn) or ?), unorthodox
way to Elsinore (@ 26 mi 45-65 minutes) stop at Lookout, then along Hwy 74 2 parking lot at Swallows Inn for the
Chili Feed. This route is subject to change.
Arrival should be around 2 pm.
Bring $ 4.00 for the Chili, high spirits and, perhaps, a spoon.
This is a festival
with live bands and motorcycle parking is provided
Sunday, May 19th
Mike's Housewarming
Ride-We will leave from Express Cafe on Jamacha Rd in El Cajon (Edwards Theatres/shopping complex) at 9:30AM. The
route is Hwy 94 to Japutal Rd, to Old Hwy 80 to Sunrise Highway thru Julian and down to Ramona for a final stop
at Mikes place Riders can choose their own way home - we will take a butt break at Pine Valley at the general store
Thursday, May 23rd
La Mesa Hot Rod & Bike Show--A
bi-weekly informal gathering of the Wanderers. (every other Thursday) There is no set arrival time but somewhere
around 4:30 or 5 someone usually tries to grab a table at "Por Favor" restaurant at the corner of La
Mesa Blvd. and Palm. Motorcycle parking is provided on Palm alongside the restaurant.
Friday, May 31st
Packards Night in Ramona
Saturday, June 1st
Blessing Of Our Riders & Their Bikes: This
ride will begin at South Shores Parking lot (where our annual toy run begins) and will take us up to the top of
Mount Soledad. While there our own Thomas (Doc) Cassidy and Chris Brown, both being ordained Ministers will conduct
a "proper" ceremony of blessing for riders and their steeds. We will also take advantage of this scenic
site to snap photos of any club members who don't have pictures posted in the "Members" area of the website.
The ride will continue from there to our scenic North County. Check back for specific route information and times.
Ride Captain is John Q.
Sunday, June 2nd
The Wanderers Run a Marathon...
Yeh right. But member Rob Matias will. We will cheer him on at the beginning and again as he crosses the finish
line 26 miles
distant. We, of course will ride motorcycles
and will travel considerably more than 26 miles getting to the finish line. Rod Fleming is planning this one. Check
back for details.
Thursday, June 7th
La Mesa Hot Rod & Bike Show--A
bi-weekly informal gathering of the Wanderers. (every other Thursday)
Sunday, June 9th
Blue Knights Annual Charity Ride: This
will be the Knights 15th Annual fund raiser and the 4th year the Wanderers have participated. This year the ride
will begin at Cycle Parts West, 3104 El Cajon Blvd (just off the 805) and ends at the SDPD pistol range and clubhouse
with the traditional spaghetti feed. Ride pins for the first 200 registered. Print registration form from our website.
Pre Event Registration fee is $17 for single riders,
$23 two up.
Wanderers
will form up at another location and
will ride as a group to the staging area. Time and place TBA
Toy Run Pre-Run
From Bill Edwards
Met up with Kent Saxton this morning, and he
advised me he was meeting John DelSanto at South Shores for a pre-ride of this years Toy Run route. So
I tagged along.
Boy, what a great event this will be this
year! The Pauma Valley Casino is a supreme choice, hats off
to all involved on the Toy Run Committee.
I predict this years Run will be the best
yet! The ride up there will be more interesting for one thing,
although an alternative freeway run will be available for riders that can't wait to gamble.
And the area around the Casino is postcard
pretty. The Casino itself is very friendly, and not as "overdone" as some of the other, larger ones. Good
food with very reasonable prices, also.
(We had lunch.)
I think John mentioned that another group
will be putting up a stage the day before, and have agreed to leave it up for the Toy Run.
One less headache.
Wow, it's not even summer, and I can't wait.
Bill E.
Past Rides
Tombstone or Bust
Thanks to Greg Huber, Gery Marcelino & Mike
Calderone for this
compilation of recollections
Official departure time: May 03, 2002 @ 7:08am, from Starbucks -Grossmont Center. Temperature was in the high 50's in San Diego.
Seven bikes total to include: 1 Nomad, 2 Valkyrie's,
1 Goldwing, 1 Virago, and 2 Ventures. We were also joined later by 1 BMW.
Of those departing,
we had two cheaters driving in this old beat up car (ok - so it was a sleek looking black convertible Mercedes),
but I'm sure it wasn't as much fun as riding on the bikes. The miles described in the ride below are only a guess
(~ meaning approximately), since no one kept an accurate count. We set trip meters in San Diego and checked them
in Tombstone, but that was it.We were all in high spirits and pumped up for our long ride as we headed out I-8
east, and toward our destination over 500 miles away:
Tombstone!
The route we followed was: I-8 to SR98 to I-8 to SR85
to SR86 to SR19 to I-10 to SR80. This route was followed to give some diversity to the ride and avoid the freeway
as much as possible. Total miles differed between speedometers, but the average was approximately 1090. This total
mileage was the ride to and from, although various riders put on more miles sightseeing around Tombstone.
Absolutely beautiful
weather as the sun rose from the east. We rode straight on I-8 to our first fuel stop at Ocotillo. Getting a little
warmer now, time to start stripping off clothes. It was here at Ocotillo that we got off the freeway and caught
SR98. This road was beautiful as it went through the farming area of eastern California. They had repaved most
of the road, however we did end up sitting for 15 minutes as they were working on a large section of the roadway.
SR98 ends up running back into I8 right before the Imperial Sand dunes. Another 30 miles on I-8 took us into Yuma,
where we had our second fueling, and decided to fuel our bodies. We had a great (and fast), brunch at Denny's.
Then back on the road.
The next stretch of
the journey was ~100 miles of I-8 from Yuma to Gilla Bend, where we will get off I-8 and take a break and fuel
up.
Mike C: "We are
on I8 between Yuma and Gila Bend with Rod leading. We begin to see Rod's arms flailing, a head bob or two and some
tape flying around. Pretty soon Rod signals to get off the freeway at an exit where there is absolutely nothing.
We all figure its a bike problem but soon learn the real reason. Rod's Venture has just chewed up one of his favorite
old rock and roll tapes and we all have to commiserate with him before we resume. However, just before we get ready
to get back Rod tells us he is running on fumes (he didn't tank up at last station) and we need to get off next
exit where there is gas. This is our leader? Anyway, the next exit turned out to be our scheduled stop in Gila
Bend. It was a long hard ride but it was a lot of fun."
Greg: At Gila Bend,
we decided to take a nice break and get ready for the next chunk of road. It was at this time that we had to decide
between jumping back on I-8/I-10 or taking the least beaten path SR85/86. After riding ~100 miles from Yuma to
Gilla Bend, we had enough of the concrete and decided to go for the slower, but more scenic route. We switched
leaders at this time, and Leon was now in charge. So off we went, as the heat was now jumping up quickly. As we're
heading out on SR85, being 4th in line, I lost site of the three riders and car behind me. We were lacking communication
gear, and had no idea what could be wrong. I didn't see Rod behind me flashing his lights, and the riders in front
of me didn't see me try and signal them. Rod rode up to inform me what the problem was, and his answer was very
interesting. Rod says "Shouldn't we be going SR85 South?" "Yes, of course" I tell him. Well,
we weren’t, we were now heading toward Phoenix, not where we wanted to go. Welcome to the club Leon!! His first
official Wanderer's U-turn. Back into Gilla Bend we go, and now we catch SR85 south. This was a very easy mistake,
no one caught it. There was an actual onramp to go on southbound 85, which was right at the I-8 exit, whereas 85
north ran all the way through town. Next time we'll know where to go.
So we are now on SR85
which runs into SR86 and a total of ~175 miles. This stretch shows the real Arizona. Miles and miles of sand, cactus,
more sand, and yes - more sand. It was beautiful scenery with rolling mountains, and , oh yea, did I mention lots
of sand. Some interesting sites along the way were 1 coyote who decided to play chicken and cross the road in front
of us. The most famous sign along the way was "Caution - Animals next 100 miles", "Caution - Animals
next 45 miles". Pretty much, just look for animals along the entire stretch of roadway.
Another interesting
site along 85 & 86 are the memorials set up alongside the roadway. We are talking everything from plain white
crosses and flowers to elaborate concrete pillars. Seanna attempted to count how many there were, but at approximately
156, she lost count because they were on both sides of the road, and everywhere. We figured there was a lot of
driving off the road because of the collection of beer cans and bottles also deposited on the side of the road.
We actually found out from locals that most of the deaths were from illegal aliens. This is a heavily crossed area
near the Mexico/Ca border, and between cars flying around the darkened streets and the heat, unfortunately, many
lives are lost alongside this road.
The next part of the
ride gets a little fuzzy. We need to steer ourselves from SR86 to I-10 via a short stretch of SR19. This part of
town, the outskirts of Tucson, has short lights and confusing signs. I had taken the lead somewhere along SR86,
and was going to lead us to dinner and Tombstone. We were getting tired from the ride and the heat, but the blood
was still pumping and we were looking forward to stepping into the old west in a matter of a couple hours. We took
the onramp to SR19 north, which catches I-10 east. As I entered the highway, I looked in my mirror and counted
1, 2, 3, 4, .... hey, where's 5, 6, 7 & a car? Ok, they musta got caught at the light right before the onramp.
We pulled over and waited a couple minutes, then 5 ..10, ok, they must have taken their own route, as there was
some confusion with the signs. Mike was also in the other group, and they had the maps, so, they'll find their
way. We could see the onramp for 10 east, since we are on the highway itself, with no way to turn around. So off
we go on I-10, for another ~50 miles and exit at the city of Benson and SR80. This is the road that leads directly
into Tombstone. The rest of the gang will HAVE to go through this way. We found the closest and most visible restaurant
and parked the bikes next to the roadway and decided to have dinner. The time 7:00pm, now 12 hours of riding, and
only 30 miles outside of Tombstone.
During dinner, I talked
to Jim Scoggins (via cell phone). He left Poway at approximately 1:45pm, (yes - 6 hours after us, and he was 70
miles out from our location). If we didn't get moving, he was going to beat us to Tombstone. Jim was pounding that
concrete, and with his 6 gallon tank, needed to fuel up only twice.
During our dinner,
we had some guest's. Yes, low and behold the second half of the group showed up at the restaurant. They had spotted
our bikes and joined us for dinner, with their story of, yes, I guess we had more than one Wanderers U-turn. That
old SR19 mix-up ended up taking them south instead of north, and it took them a couple minutes to correct their
error.
From Gery: "We
continue to ride, stop and eat.... Ride, stop and eat.... Ride, stop and eat... I really can't remember how many
times we ride, stop and eat until we finally arrive Friday night at approximately 8 PM to the wild west town of
Tombstone or known as "the town too tough to die". Yes, we barely survive after nearly 12 hours on the
Arizona painfully straight desert highways. Too much excitement did not slow us down and we still managed to visit
the main town of Tombstone upon a few minutes of our arrival. We end up sitting on a western round table at "Big
Nose Kate Bar" cheering with cold beer for our trip achievement."
Tombstone ride heading
to western part of Arizona is an intensive adventure experience. Mild to cold and warm to hot weather conditions
are one of the obstacles we have to pass through during the ride besides from gusty winds along the open desert
area. The ride was awesome, carrying us from barren desert floor over elevations that support prairie grass and
oak trees. Along highway 85 & 86, we found ourselves surrounded by the strange huge cactus. According to local
tenants, a saguaro cactus can live for 400 years and grow to be more than 50 feet tall. The arms that create the
stereotyped shape don't even bud for approximately 75 years."
Saturday, we spent
the rest of the day in and around Tombstone town holding on my digital camera (can't afford to miss historical
angles). The locals are dressed to kill like colorful war drove and cowboys style. Checked all leather shops around
the town for a pair of leather chop pants for myself and as usual that always found nothing for my size.
Rode to nearby city
to Bisbee, Sierra Vista and San Pedro Valley and checked close by ghost town at Gleeson, Courtland and Pearce.
I heard that some of us trying to find other ghost town and did found the ghost but not the town (real Wanderers).
Greg: Some of the
more interesting sites in Tombstone were the re-enactment of the gunfight. We watched a video of Tombstone history,
then saw a show put on by the expert gunslingers at the OK Corral. They put on a 40 minute show, which ended with
the main gun fight at the exact time and location of the original fight some 120 years ago.
We toured the famous
Birdcage Theatre, where folks took in a show and gambled in the basement (the original cowboys, not the Wanderers).
They also had another form of entertainment... no, a business, well ....depends on how you look at it. Let's put
it this way, it's the oldest profession in the books. We took stage coach tours, walked the various stores, looked
at buildings with bullet holes still in them, visited the saloons, took a bunch of pictures, bought souvenirs,
and the list goes on and on.
Saturday night ended
with a great outside dinner at "Six Gun City" with the group. Ribs, burgers, fries and all the fixins.
Gery: "Sunday,
more ride, more stop and more eat on the way back home..... After a three day desert adventure can only mean one
thing. It's time to get home and recall all of the good memories we've shared. The Tombstone ride was an exciting
end to a wonderful trip. "
Greg: We all met at Circle-K Sunday morning, at 7:00am
for our return trip to San Diego, except for one lucky member: Rod. He decided to prolong his visit and stay another
day (lucky him!). We followed the same route home as we took to get to Tombstone. It was even hotter on the return
trip. We were told by our 4 wheel chase car that the temps were between 95 and 100 degrees.
Overall - I would
do it again! We all had a great time, great friends, the sights, and the ride. There are more stories to tell,
just ran out of paper. Next ride or social gathering, we will all have a good long story telling session.
For Additional Photos check the website
Attached are some of Gery & Virginia’s group
pictures and the remainder 50+ pictures will be seen at "tombstone-5-3-02@cox.net".
Thanks, Gery & Virginia
Dick's Tombstone Alternative May 4, 2002
Recap by John Q.
The Route
We were ten bikes
then we were nine then we were ten again. Let me esplain.
A fairly large group
of Wanderers had ridden off toward the sunrise, destination Tombstone, Arizona (separate write up) on Friday leaving
those of us of the working class to, well...put together a slightly less ambitious ride.
To the rescue came Dick Useted who designed one heck of
a fine day. It started at one of our usual spots, the Target/Edwards Cinema shopping center parking lot in Rancho
San Diego. An easy jump off point for many scenic areas. Among those gathered were some brand new members, Joe
Baker, Michael Dukor and Al Sessler. Also with us was a guest, Michael Wheeley riding a Kawasaki multi purpose
somethingorotherwatchamacallit. It wasn't a sport bike, not a dirt bike, not a cruiser it was......it had two wheels
which, as always, was good enough for the Wanderers. Michael had seen the ride posted on our website and thought
he'd like to ride with a group for the first time. Al was scheduled to work a little later in the day but said
he'd tag along part of the way. That turned out to be not such a good choice.
East on highway 94
rode our group of ten bikes, Dick in the lead myself riding trail. We left the highway at Lyons Valley Road and
took on the twisties. We weren't exactly setting a torrid pace, in fact it was quite stately with some construction
on Lyons Valley. Just past the horse training homestead, the one with the big arena, jumping equipment and whatnot
there's a quick right and a quick left. Well, that's where Al left his motorcycle. The footrest dug into the pavement
(is this sounding familiar Doc?) and down went the bike and Al. Fortunately he is fine but his V-Star will require
some attention from the insurance company and body shop. I know what you're thinking, we were challenging that
road...nope.
Another V-Star had
been right in front of Al and was two up and did the turn just fine. There was just come confluence of events,
some momentary alignment of planets that caused Al's machine to slide out from under him. That's his story and
he's stickin' to it. We were nine bikes with Al opting to ride home.
The rest of the ride
was uneventful and very enjoyable as Dick led us to Lyons Valley Trading post (where Kent Saxton caught up with
us and we were ten again), then out out out and up up up until we were climbing over Sunrise Highway, ooohing and
aaahing at some of the beautiful blooming flora. We made a stop at the glider port for some photos then headed
back down to old Highway 80 where we noshed at the newly discovered La Posta Cafe (again, thanks Dick).
If you stop there
get the chili.
Lunch was followed
by a ride west on Highway 94 and a big finish exactly where we'd started but with another 126 miles on our odometers.
It was great to see
so many new members out with us and some new ride ideas were forthcoming as well. This is going to be a great year
and we'll expect to see Al back with us very soon.
Oh, btw Al, have you
ever read our Wanderers "Get Offs" stories? They're posted (well, many of them anyway) in the "Odds
n Ends" area of this website. Just look for "Get Offs".
Thanks again Dick,
great day
G'night everybody!
John Q.
Thanks to Michael Wheeley for the route map
Klub Kampout April 5,6,7 2002 
Recap by Greg Huber
What a beautiful,
sunny perfect weekend. Saturday morning the sun rose over the hills to the east, and Saturday night we watched
a perfect sunset over the hills to the west, with a great ride in-between! ……. then I woke up.
Okay, so the weather
wasn’t great, and our ride consisted of a permanent U-turn toward Potrero before we got to the meat of our adventure,
but the weekend was still great.
Friday started out
terrific. John Q arrived first to camp at Potrero County Park with his bike, a cooler full of ….uh, refreshments,
and a stogie. Sunny and warm, couldn’t of asked for a better day to start off the weekend. I (Greg H) arrived next
in my truck, full of gear, giving the two of us something to do, start setting up camp and my condo (very large
tent). Next to arrive was Doc and his wife Bonnie, one of two trucks pulling their bike (lucky for them – more
to come later). Doc had a large load of wood also, so this kept us all busy getting the wood to the designated
fire ring. Next up was Rod and Ron.
Rod was in his truck
with motorcycle in tow via trailer and Ron on his Roadstar. This load had the bulk of the supplies seeing that
Rod, Rose and Ron have done much of the preparation and the bulk of cooking. That said, I would like to pass on
a great big THANKS to Rod, Rose and Ron for all their work outside of the campgrounds, getting this weekend underway.
I had to head back
down to town to get my bike, and family. When I arrived back at camp with Gregory riding as my passenger, Seanna,
Sean and one Shih Tzu puppy (Cocoa) in the car, all was setup and ready to go, including Leon Smeiska’s tent trailer
which is
towed behind his Gold
Wing trike – Wow, what a neat contraption(Leon’s significant other- Joy was also along for the festivities). We
all settled in, enjoyed a campfire and had some of Rose’s World Famous Chili, cornbread and all the fixin’s …….
The evening spent around the fire led to some interesting stories, marshmallow cooking and smores (yum yum). Okay,
is time for bed yet? Whadda ya mean it’s only 7:00! Yes, the fresh air, good food, campfire and good old fashioned
story telling take’s its toll. We pushed the envelope and managed to stay awake till a whopping 9-10pm, some staying
up much later.
As luck would have
it, the puppy didn’t make it through the night and I got to take it out for a nice little stroll at 2:45am. To
my surprise, some of our neighbors were still have having a good time. Not more than a couple minutes after I was
walking around, they all went to bed, not because of me, but the very heavy mountain moisture (RAIN!!!!!), forced
them into their tents. Yes, our weekend has only just begun. Back to bed with one wet, soggy, mud covered dog,
and try to get some more shut-eye.
Saturday started off
with chef Rod preparing a wonderful breakfast with some help from Leon and his egg cooking expertise. Chocolate
pancakes, bacon, sausage, eggs, pastries, fruit, and hot chocolate and coffee. To say the least, were prepped for
one good long day. Now if only the weather could agree. As we sat there and kept looking up at the sky, we all
were trying to make our predictions, “To ride or not to ride”, that is the question. Around this time, Kent Saxton
showed up, followed by Gery Marcelino and his wife Virginia, followed by Jim Scoggins….. Wait a minute, it’s cloudy,
raining, and no end in site, and these dye hard Wanderers are showing up for a ride. As we’re all sitting around
catching up on old times and new, along comes Joe Miller, his wife Cicci, and three other riders. By now, our minds
were made up, we’re riding! Some Wanderers tried to find our camp, unsuccessfully, although a French couple touring
the world found Potrero twice in the last 3 months (see pictures).
The ride - eighteen
riders, thirteen bikes (lucky 13), including one trike. Destination – East! Away from the clouds and rain. So off
we went, Ron leading our ride and headed out on 94 to 80, and according to John Q, what a site, all the miscellaneous
bikes in a row cruising up the road. We were going toward Ocotillo and the desert, then get lunch, with plans of
going back up the glass elevator and working our way back toward camp. Sounds like a good plan, right? So we have
communications via Chatterbox, we have GPS’s, thermometers, fuel; ……the only thing we didn’t have (mental note
for next trip) was a weather report for our route. Once we jumped on Interstate 8 at In-Ko-Pah, we were in for
a ride we would all like to take back. I found out today, that the wind gusts as we were heading down the grade
in the desert were clocked up to 46 mph, WOW! This was a very dangerous couple of miles, as we were thrown around
from lane to lane, just trying to make it down the hill. Whew, we’re down into flatlands, the temperature rose
a good 10 degrees, but the wind didn’t stop, just not as bad. We stopped at the Imperial Hwy exit, fueled up, and
put our minds together to come up with a plan. We had some help from the Ranger, who stated that the desert was
not the place to go. What’s this mean…….. back up the hill. Ron led the way back onto Int 8 for another fun filled
ride, back to Boulevard for lunch. This must have been too much for Doc to handle, and he pulled his bike to the
side of the Interstate. He blames Ron for going too fast up the on-ramp, but we all had our doubts (although he
is still sticking to his story). Ends up, his bike called it a day, and locked up on him. Doc now got to enjoy
the view from the pillion, via Jim Scoggins. We headed back up the grade, taking it much slower and careful until
we exited were we started at In-Ko-Pah. Heading over to Boulevard, we had a very good lunch at the Burning Tree
Restaurant, and Ron got that free lunch he deserved (although there was some debate – we didn’t finish the ride).
As we sat in the nice warm establishment, we could see the rain coming down again, this should make for a nice
slow ride back to camp.
Joe and his followers
bided their farewell as they headed back toward their neck of the woods, and the rest of us aimed our rain soaked
bikes back toward camp.
Once back to camp,
the fun wasn’t over for all of us, Doc still needed to get his bike and we decided we need to make some changes
to camp with regards to building rain shelters. We ended up putting our lone canopy over the fire ring, to shelter
us from the rain, while getting some heat (mental note – pursue that chimney idea). We started grabbing tarps and
climbing trees to hang more shelter to build a new kitchen area, while Doc hooked up his trailer. Doc then grabbed
Kent and Sean, while Jim followed on his bike, to retrieve the lone dead soldier from the side of the road.
Saturday night was
Ron’s turn to cook. Spaghetti, bread and salad were the meal of his choice and a terrific meal it was. I think
Doc had his binoculars out and was watching from afar, because he pulled up just as we were ready to eat. Another
fine night of sitting by the fire, roasting marshmallows and exchanging tall stories, while it rained off and on
all night long.
Sunday was a no BS
morning. Wake up, have some coffee and close up camp.
Unfortunately this
will take a double effort. Take everything home, setup camp at home while it is sunny to dry everything off, then
pack it up again. We’ll have to have someone talk to the rain Gods next year about this cruel joke played on us
(rain was not in the prediction)
* As bad as the weather
was, we had a group huddle Saturday afternoon, and took a vote:
“Pack it up and go
home” or “Stay and ruff it out”? These were some dedicated Wanderers, because we stayed and still had the time
of our life.
Hope to see more participants
next year and we’ll work on that weather thing…...
Greg H.
A movement to modify California's
helmet law is afoot.
A bill recently introduced in the state assembly
(AB 200, Assy Dennis Mountjoy, Arcadia) would remove the requirement that riders age 21 and above "must"
wear a DOT approved helmet.
The author says "My bill is about more
than motorcycle riding, it's about freedom, about liberty.
We don't need government to protect us from
ourselves."
Kicker. The
bill includes a health insurance provision (similar to Florida) which requires riders choosing not to wear a helmet
to have one million dollars in health insurance coverage.
The bill has passed
all necessary committees and is headed to the state Assembly.
I'll still wear a
helmet but have to wonder what a million dollar medical insurance policy goes for these days?
Cheers
JQ
Bill Text:
Notwithstanding subsection (l), a person over 21 years of age may operate or ride upon a motorcycle without wearing protective headgear securely fastened upon his or her head if such person is covered by an insurance policy providing for at least $10,000 in medical benefits for injuries incurred as a result of a crash while operating or riding on a motorcycle.
Check discussions on the list serve!
The roughness of the road will always be in direct proportion to the
fullness of your bladder jq
