GWTA 1 September 2009 Touring News

Transcription

GWTA
1
September 2009 Touring News
GWTA
2
Touring News
September 2009 Volume XXIII, No.9
(USPS-011-789)
Advertisers
On the Cover:
Add-On...........................................................................29
AIM.................................................................................21
Americade.......................................................................17
ARAI Helmets................................................................36
Big Bike Parts...................................................................6
Cartier.............................................................................21
Chrome Crazy.................................................................21
Lawrenceville Honda...................................................... 11
Leesure Lite...................................................................... 5
Markel American Insurance Company.............................7
Motel 6............................................................................31
RAM Mounting Systems..................................................2
Neosho............................................................................12
Powerlet..........................................................................31
RoadRUNNER................................................................31
ThEngraver.....................................................................25
Tour King........................................................................21
The 2009 Living Logo photo
was taken during Gold Rush
XXII in Lexington, KY on
the beautiful grounds of the
Keeneland Thoroughbred
racetrack.
Departments
Chairman of the Board........................................ 8
Education & Retention........................................ 4
Executive Director.............................................. 6
Family of the Year............................................. 17
Helping Hands.................................................. 17
Rider Education...........................................28-29
GWTA Resource Center
Board of Directors Election Ballot...................................8
Classified Ads.................................................................21
Gold Rush XXIII Registration........................................20
GWTA Business Members................................................5
GWTA Membership Application....................................10
Living Logo Order Information......................................19
Region A RaveNRide.................................................32-33
In Every Issue
Chapter Listings...........................................22-25
Cross-Eyed Crossroads................................34-35
Honda Tech..................................................30-31
Rides & Rallies Across the Regions............26-27
Welcome New Members..................................... 5
Office Hours: Monday - Friday 8am - 5pm
GWTA National Office
P.O. Box 42403
Indianapolis, IN 46242
800-960-4982
(317)243-6822
[email protected]
[email protected]
www.GWTA.org
Features
Along the Road................................................. 16
Region C Feature.........................................18-19
RV Education 101............................................... 9
Contributions and photos...
are welcomed but not guaranteed to be published, whether solicited or
unsolicited. All articles must be typewritten and e-mailed or provided
on disk with program specified. Contributions become the property of
GWTA and will not be returned to source. Reprints authorized when
full credit is given. All articles subject to revision without notice and
may be edited for content and language. GWTA, Editor and Publisher
alike are not responsible for validity of content of the advertising copy
in the magazine. Photos used in the magazine cannot be returned. The
magazine is printed in the United States of America.
Send articles, photos & changes to:
Touring News Magazine, 2415 Director’s Row Suite K
Indianapolis, IN 46241
Email: [email protected]
Canadian Members: Beginning April 1, 2009 an additional payment
of $40 USD is required annually in order to receive Touring News
Magazine. This additional fee exclusively covers the extra postage
required to mail Touring News to Canada.
Touring News is published monthly for Gold Wing Touring Association (GWTA) in the United States of America. The known office of publication is GWTA, 2415 Director’s Row, Suite K, Indianapolis, IN 46241. $39 of the annual membership dues go toward a one-year subscription to
GWTA’s Touring News Magazine; however, the subscription cannot be deducted from dues. Postmaster: Send address changes to: GWTA, P.O.
Box 42403, Indianapolis, IN 46242-0403. Periodicals Postage Paid in Indianapolis, Indiana and at additional mailing offices.
GWTA
3
When we were at Goldrush in July, we had an opportunity to
talk with lots of members – both seasoned and still wet behind the
ears. We love the opportunity to get new perspectives, and to also
build on the knowledge and experience of members who have been
in GWTA since the early years.
From our tenured members, the conversations nearly always
veered to the way things were when they were first getting active,
and how they have lost touch with many members over the
years. From the newer members, our conversations were about
the programs we have today, how things work, and how things
could be improved. We heard from one member at one of our
seminars, however, that said something that really stuck with me.
He mentioned that, while retention of our membership is certainly
important, in the long run, recruiting is where our association will
see the most growth.
I thought about that all the way home. He is absolutely right!
We know that members will leave GWTA, and for a variety of
reasons. Perhaps their interests have changed and now they are
more active in camping, or quilting, or Tinker-Toy competitions.
We all have different interests and hobbies, and they change over
time. We also know that, because our interests change, there are
new people every day that are looking at getting into touring on
a motorcycle.
What are you doing to be prepared to talk about GWTA to
prospective members? It is, indeed, up to each one of us to find other
motorcyclists who are looking for something like GWTA, and just
haven’t heard about us. (Perish the thought!!!)
Recruiting does not have to be a major effort.
There are lots of things that you can do that take
just a few minutes to prepare. Here’s a list of a
few things to think about:
1.
Always carry GWTA membership
applications with you. We
have them in the trunk of the
motorcycles, of course, but we
have some in our four-wheeled
vehicles too.
2.
Carry a business card with your
GWTA chapter and contact information. When
you are out and about running errands and spot a
motorcycle that you don’t recognize as belonging
to the club, write a quick invitation to the next
club gathering on the back of the card and tuck it
somewhere on the dash of the bike. The worst that
will happen is that they will throw it away.
GWTA
3.
Consider creating a chapter logo, deciding on a
color, and having all chapter members wear like
polo or t-shirts at all meetings, dinner runs or other
gatherings. If not a chapter shirt, consider a vest,
hat, or some other identifier that has the GWTA logo
prominently displayed. This is great free advertising
for your chapter and the organization.
4.
Post the chapter information and an open invitation
on a bulletin board at the local motorcycle shop.
Perhaps you can work with the shop so that they are
willing to put promotional materials about GWTA
and the chapter in the trunk of any new motorcycle
they sell. Can’t hurt to ask! Actually, why limit it to
motorcycle shops – post them on bulletin boards at
work, too.
5.
Participate in local events as a group – with the
chapter colors, of course! Maybe there’s a parade in
a nearby small town, or a car and motorcycle show
being hosted by a local dealer. While this idea may
take a little more effort to coordinate, it should prove
to be lots of fun for you as well as the rest of the folks
who came to see the event.
6.
When hosting a fun run, post your flyers all around
town, and talk to any non-GWTA members who show
up about this wonderful organization.
There are certainly many, many more methods. Have a website
with your chapter information – many folks search the Internet for
motorcycle clubs in their area. Our chapter has picked up several
wonderful new members that way. If no one in your chapter has
the skills, perhaps someone knows someone who does.
Perhaps your chapter schedules a day in the springtime or early
summer for a motorcycle show, or even a simple ‘show and shine.’
There are many businesses that would be willing
to cordon off a section of their parking lot for
your bikes, at no charge, because it brings in
business through their doors, too.
The point is, while there is a range of things
to do for recruiting, from low-cost, simple things
up to projects that take planning, time and effort
to conduct – recruiting is something, just like
retention, which needs attention. Be sure to take
time at chapter meetings to talk about recruiting
efforts. Celebrate when new members join
your chapter. Encourage all chapter members
to be good-will ambassadors for your chapter,
and to actively recruit new friends. Share your
successful strategies with other chapters, too! Better yet, write an
article for the Touring News!
We look forward to meeting the new recruits at the next GWTA
event!
Until next time,
Carol and Mike Brush
Natl Education and Retention Directors
4
State City
AL
AL
AL
AL
AL
AR
AZ
AZ
CA
CA
IA
IN
ME
ME
MI
MI
MI
MI
NE
NE
Mobile
Mobile
Spanish Fort
Semmes
Theodore
Mountain Home
Cordes Lakes
Phoenix
Fresno
Dunnigan
Des Moines
LaPorte
W. Baldwin
Gloucester
Pleasant Lake
Jackson
Plainwell
Otsego
Pawnee City
Holdrege
Last Name
Jones
Gaston
Shaddix
Kriksey
Sumerlin
Goodin-Shimp
Scott
Crowe
Fairbourn
Crisman
Johnson
Utpatel
Archer
Plapis
Fowle
Nees
Wakefield
Krueger
Luedders
Hite
First Name
State City
Woody & Sandy
Wayne & Betty
Ron & Rachel
Charles & Charlene
David & Rita
Ruth A.
Robert & Coleen
Howard & Christina
Bob & Rita
Edward
Stephen “Eric”
Doug & Patsy Goodin
Andrew & Lois
John & Linda
Jerry
Floyd
Charlie & Susan
Joel
NE
OH
OK
ON
ON
ON
ON
OR
PA
TX
WA
WA
WA
WA
WA
WA
WI
WI
Donald & Jayme Reed
Last Name
Pool
Ladow
Slamans
Downing
Tkach
Lee
Lewis
Wilgus
Yarian
McCauley
Olson
Wadsworth
Tyni
Blair
Greenwood
Galland
Smith
Perkins
First Name
Terry L. & Carol Babb
Robert (Tom) & Mary
Robert D.
Evan
Daniel & Roberta
Mark
Perry & Judy
Steve & Maryann
Dennis & Karen Gregor
Kelly & Grace
Chet & Paula
Christa & Chilie
Tim & Terri
Christopher & Ruth
David & Peggy
Jay & Tami
Joel & Carrie
Randy
Richard
Add On Accessories
www.addonaccessories.net
AIM
www.ON-A-BIKE.com
Americade
www.tourexpo.com
ARAI Helmets
www.araiamericas.com
Baker Built Air Wings
www.bakerbuilt.com
Big Bike Parts
www.bigbikeparts.com
Chrome Crazy Superstore
www.chromecrazy.net
CIMA International
Everett Powersports
www.everettpowersports.com
GWTA
Blair
Russells Point
Hominy
Richmond Hill
Mississauga
Aurora
Keswick
Beaverton
Tionesta
Texarkana
Graham
Ft. Lewis
Des Moines
Oak Harbor
Oak Harbor
Vancouver
Appleton
Cornell
Markel American Insurance Co.
www.GWTAInsurance.com
Neosho Fiberglass
www.neoshotrailers.com
Road Runner Magazine
www.RoadRUNNER.travel
Lees-ure Lite Popup Tent Trailers
Now selling motorcycle accessories & hitches!
Sleep anywhere, in comfort!
Set up in 6 seconds - optional add a
room - screen room - rear storage awnings air conditioning kit
and more!
For information or a brochure
call free
1-800-660-0933
Shipping all over America
www.tent-trailer.com
[email protected] Call for nearest distributor
5
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Bruce & Linda Keenon
P.O. Box 348, Huntington, IN 46750
(260) 358-0851 Fax (260) 356-3392
[email protected]
The World is on Twitter are You????
follow us on twitter at www.twitter.com/GWTAMotorcycle. We are
also working on being more accessible via other social networking
sites as well as
through our own website, www.gwta.org. Not only does a social
medium allow us to connect with members and prospective members
on a more personal level, it allows GWTA to view posts from other
members about a particular opportunity, product or company that
GWTA might want to get involved in to help its membership. I
invite you to share your expertise and offerings of information on
the web with GWTA.
Although GWTA seems to be weathering the poor economic
climate, GWTA should still be proactive and get involved in new
forms of communication to help bolster our association and get its
name out in cyberspace. As a chapter, you might consider forming a
group on facebook and setting up a twitter account to alert members
about special last minute rides or other information.
These are just a few ways in which our association can grow and
continue to seek its mission of having fun and building memories.
We are also going to strive to change the look of Touring News in
the upcoming months to make it more appealing to all motorcyclists,
but that will be another article in the near future.
With all of this said I feel like a dinosaur that either has to change
or turn into “sludge”. I’ll be looking for you on facebook…
I am fortunate enough to have children who are very “new world”
literate. They facebook, twitter, myspace, flickr, etc. Did I mention
that they text each other from only a few feet away on holidays while
I sit and talk with them. I wonder what they say to each other. I
can remember when my father, who was a service manager for Otis
elevator, would want me off of the phone so he could catch incoming
emergency calls. I wish I could have twittered. On the other hand,
I have not gotten with it in this day and age. It is so hard for me to
understand how they (the family) have the time to do all the things
they do on these social networks. I still want to ride and enjoy the
serenity that riding allows me to have. This brings me to GWTA.
The current state of our economy is forcing our generation into
these social networks. This, in turn, is forcing GWTA into these
social networks to seek and entertain you, the member, and obtain
information. Our organization needs new ways to engage current
members, attract new members, and continue to have fun bonding
together as a family. With social media outlets like facebook and
twitter steadily gaining momentum and media attention now is the
perfect time for GWTA to expand its horizons and take part in the
social media revolutions.
We are embracing the many different forms of social media
in order to make ourselves more accessible to our members and
prospective members. Currently you can join us on facebook, just
look for the GWTA-Motorcycle Touring Association group. Or,
GWTA
Ride Safe,
The Keenons
6
GWTA
7
As fall approaches and the weather is going to change make sure that your motorcycles have been serviced and the rubber on the
ground is in the best shape to handle wet and slippery roads.
I was unable to attend Gold Rush due to many factors and Charles Horner was acting chair for the meeting, (a decision made at the
last minute), so I will ask him to write a report of the Board meeting and try to insert it in next month’s magazine.
I hope this message finds all is well in your homes.
Take Care, Ed Davis, COB
2009 Board of Directors Election Official Ballot
GWTA
8
Is your Tire Pressure Gauge Accurate?
years, but advancements in digital technology have improved on
that standard. Analog dial gauges are about as accurate as the quality
pencil type gauges. In numerous tests comparing different type
gauges digital gauges were the most accurate tested.
We often talk about the importance of checking the inflation
pressure in tires, but is your tire pressure gauge giving you accurate
information?
As a Maintenance Warrant Officer in the Army, I was responsible
for tool calibration programs. Certain tools required regular
calibration to ensure accuracy. I use a quality tire pressure gauge,
but realized that after several years of using this gauge I have never
had it checked for accuracy.
Many of the really inexpensive gauges ($5) you can purchase
can’t be calibrated, and if the reading is inaccurate the gauge is
worthless. This is why you should spend a little more ($15-$25)
and get a quality pressure gauge that can be calibrated. I am a real
believer in the old saying; you get what you pay for.
If you have any doubt about the accuracy of your tire pressure
gauge there are a couple things you can do to check it.
1) You can check the air pressure in a tire with the gauge in
question and then check the same tire with another gauge.
If there is a significant difference in the readings (4 or more
psi) between the two gauges one or both gauges may be
inaccurate. If both gauges read within 1 to 2 psi of each
other the gauges are more than likely accurate.
2) If you want a more precise method for checking the
accuracy take the gauge to a local tire dealer or fleet truck
maintenance facility and ask them to check it using a master
gauge. A master gauge is a gauge that is certified to be
accurate. But I caution you there are lots of tire dealers who
don’t have their own tire pressure gauges calibrated.
Note: Don’t depend on pressure gauges at gas stations to be
accurate. These are usually abused and neglected, raising concern
over accuracy.
There are several different types of pressure gauges available
on the market. One important thing to keep in mind is the pressure
the gauge is rated for. Most automobile tires are inflated to around
32 psi, so a 0 to 60 psi gauge is sufficient. On the other hand some
motorhome and truck tires are inflated to 100 or more psi. It is
important, for accuracy and to prevent damage to the gauge, that
you get the right gauge for the job. A general rule of thumb is to
find a gauge that can read double what the inflation pressure is set
at. This isn’t always possible especially with tires inflated to 100
psi, so find a gauge rated for high pressure, like 160 psi.
Regardless of the type of gauge you choose there are high quality
and low quality gauges available. Buying a cheap digital gauge
would be the same as buying a cheap pencil type gauge. Here are a
few things to keep in mind when it comes to tire pressure gauges.
1) Spend a few more dollars and get a quality pressure
gauge.
2) If the gauge will be used for checking dual wheels on a
motorhome the chuck end of the gauge should have a dual
foot design to make the job much easier.
3) Always select a gauge rated higher than the inflation
pressure of the tires you are checking. Applying more
pressure than the gauge is rated for can damage the gauge
and affect the accuracy. If you over-pressure a gauge have
it tested for accuracy.
4) Try not to drop or jar the gauge. Store the gauge in some
type of protective covering or case and in an area where it
won’t be hit or damaged.
5) Periodically have the gauge tested for accuracy. At a
minimum compare it to another quality gauge to see if
both read the same, or close to the same pressure.
6) Most importantly, once you purchase a quality pressure
gauge use it on a regular basis to check your tires.
Remember, properly inflated tires are safer, extend the life of the
tires, improve fuel efficiency and lessen the chance of unexpected
and premature tire failure.
Mark Polk
Mark Polk is the owner of RV Education 101. RV Education 101 is a
North Carolina based company that produces professional training
videos, DVDs and e-books on how to use and maintain your RV.
www.rveducation101.com
Possibly the most common type of pressure gauge is the plunge
or pencil type. Some of these are calibrated and some of the cheaper
ones are not. As a general rule a common plunge type gauge you
would purchase will be accurate to + or – 3 psi when it is new. The
accuracy of these type gauges are also affected by temperature,
humidity and altitude.
Like everything else these days’ things are switching from analog
to digital. Analog tire pressure gauges were the standard for many
GWTA
9
Hi all and welcome to September! Region “A” Rally is over and
those that attended had a great time. Chili, Ice Cream, Water slides,
Wineries, Carousels, good friends and plenty of relaxing time.
September is when the kids go back to school so be extra careful
when you’re out there driving to & from work, breakfast meetings,
etc. Those precious bundles of joy could just be the next generation
of motorcycle riders. And for those in northern Washington check
those yellow buses, it could be your Regional Directors behind the
wheel of one of them.
Gold Rush 23… Mark your calendars for July 19th – 22nd, 2010
in Billings, MT. Yep, that’s right GR 23 will be right back here in
our back yards. Different venue this time as we will be located in
the downtown area with two new host hotels. The Crowne Plaza
for $92.00 a night and the Best Western across the street for $82.00
a night. Watch the National website for the rally registration form
to be out soon with the Hotel codes for the discounted prices. Let’s
show everyone out there that REGION “A” is the best. We’re also
trying to come up with something for Region “A” members to wear
so we can be easily identified by others. If you have any ideas let
us know.
Final numbers for 2009 Raffle tickets are out and again we want
to thank all of you that helped us in selling the tickets this year. We
set a goal of 8,000 tickets and we sold… drum roll please… 9,299…
What a bunch of terrific members you are! WA-Chapter G won
the Pizza feed, again; WA-Chapter Z was the first chapter to return
money to us; OR-Chapter A one member took it upon himself to
sell over 1,000 tickets, Thank You Don Coons. We’ll be sending
out individual Chapter results to the State Directors soon.
Remember, to get out there and support the other Chapters in
your area & Region. Ride and be safe… and until we meet again
‘Keep Your Ducks in a Row’.
JR & Lindy
GWTA Membership Application
___ NEW
___RENEWAL: Mem # ___________
Mail completed form to:
Memberships: 1 Year 2 Years 3 Years
GWTA Membership Services
Individual
$45
$90
$120
P.O. Box 42403
Family
$55
$110
$150
Indianapolis, IN 46242-0403
Toll Free: 1-800-960-4982
Ph: 317-243-6822
Last _______________________ First _______________________
Fax: 317-243-6833
Last _______________________ First _______________________
Email: [email protected]
Last _______________________ First _______________________
For
the Blue Line (toll-free help
Last _______________________ First _______________________
service),
the services I can provide
Last _______________________ First _______________________
are as follows:
Last _______________________ First _______________________
___ A - Bike/Trailer Pickup
Mailing Address__________________________________________
___B - Phone Calls
City ______________State/Province ______ Zip/Postal __________ ___C - Tent Space
Home Ph. ___________________ Work Ph. ___________________ ___D - Lodging
Email __________________________________________________ ___E - Tools
Membership dues: $ __________ for __________ years.
___I/we cannot offer services for I would also like to make a donation of $ _____ to Helping Hands. the Blue Line.
Please assign me to chapter ____
Total $ _________ (Please make checks payable to GWTA)
in the state/province of _________.
The following information must be filled out if paying by credit card:
VISA/MC/AMEX _________________________________________ Recruiting credit to_______________
Exp. Date __________ CVV2 (3 or 4 digit code on back) _________ Membership # ___________________
Billing Address _____________________ Billing Zip ____________ Note: $39 of annual membership dues inAuthorized Signature _____________________________________ cludes a one-year subscription to GWTA’s
PLEASE NOTE: All funds must be payable in U.S. Funds only.
DO NOT SEND CASH.
GWTA
10
Touring News magazine. Subscription
cannot be deducted from dues.Updated 7/2009
Normally we would say that the riding season is winding down
but having a late summer in our neck of the woods fortunately gives
us more riding days. Speaking of which… as you read this article,
I will probably be on the homeward leg of my annual Mexico to
Canada ride called The Three Flags Classic. This time I had a
couple of our chapter members accompany me which even makes
it a more enjoyable ride.
This is also the time when most students return to their studies in
hopes of expanding their minds and increasing their knowledge in
the world around them. I would remiss if I did not continue to state
that we as motorcycle riders should follow our children’s lead and
remember to take the time to educate ourselves as well. Keep your
riding mind and body sharp and attend an experienced rider course
and/or continue to have parking lot practice. Maintaining or even
improving your motorcycle skills is always valuable and beneficial
and could mean the difference between a smooth turn through a tight
corner or having to pick your bike up out of a tight corner.
September is usually the time of the year for chapters to start
laying out their plans for next year’s rides and events schedule.
We’re asking for all chapters in Region B to make sure you send
us your 2010 schedule once finalized. We’d like to assist you in
increasing attendance at your event by publicizing it in Touring News
and the quarterly Region B Buzz. We can also help to ensure that
your event gets posted to the state and/or national website.
Some of the upcoming events that we have located on various
websites include Nor Cal Chapter B’s “Waves to Wines Bike-athon” on September 12th and 13th. This event allows our members
the opportunity to assist bicyclists from all over as they participate
GWTA
in a charitable event as they ride their bikes throughout the beautiful
Sonoma wine country. So Cal will be holding their State Picnic in
Tehachapi from September 18th-20th. If you can’t make it for the
whole weekend, come join them at the picnic which will be held
on the 20th and enter your best chili for a prize. Looking ahead
in October, make sure you put on your calendar Ride for Kids to
be held on the 4th. This event is especially meaningful to Ralphie
as it will be held for the first time at her place of employment,
Solano Community College. She tells me that she’s got quite a
few employees to pitch in and volunteer and by all accounts, a large
crowd of riders and participants are due to be in attendance. The
following weekend is Nor Cal’s Chapter L with their Taylor Tavern
Chicken BBQ Fundraiser; sounds yummy! Nor Cal’s Fall Fiesta and
State Staff Meeting will again be held at the Yuba-Sutter Fairgrounds
on the 16th-18th. Not only is this a time for good camping fun but
all the 2010 activities and events are planned for the state calendar.
Also, on the calendar is So Cal’s CD’s Meeting on October 24th
followed by So Cal’s Chapter W’s Annual Pumpkin Run on the
25th. This is So Cal’s yearly planning event as well. So as you can
see, Region B continues to be very busy.
As Region B is still afforded the good riding weather this time
of year and you just happen to be in the area, please feel free to
give us a call, drop us an email and we’d love for you to come and
visit and ride with us.
In Friendship,
Steve & Ralphie Andrus
11
Where has the summer gone? It seems like just last week I was
getting the bike ready for a year of riding. I have done so many things
and have had so much fun, to tell you the truth I am not ready for
the winter months to come. Here in Nebraska winter can show up
at any given time from the end of September until February. The
friendships I have made are just one of the many reasons I enjoy
belonging to GWTA. Just because the bike is put away does not
mean I have to stop enjoying the company and the friendship of
people in my club.
There are so many activities to enjoy during the off season with
my friends.
We still have our monthly meetings and our dinner rides. Quite often
many of us step up our activities with our own chapters during the
winter months so that we can stay in touch. There are a lot of state
events that are scheduled during the winter months. Just because the
riding season has slowed down is no reason to quit enjoying your
chapters company. I have seen several chapters organize chapter
get together’s and invite other chapters to join them. My chapter
always puts together a Christmas party and there are chapters in my
area that do a Halloween Party and a New Years Eve Party. Just
because the months are getting colder does not mean that we have
to put away our GWTA Spirit.
Because of changing times and the economy we are finding
it harder and harder to make ends meet. I have heard so many
complain that it seems that our National GWTA is always asking
for more money. The truth is if we in our chapters make a habit of
involving all of our chapter members and making them feel welcome
they will have fun and fun breeds fun. Is your chapter active? Do
you try to involve all of your members? Many of us have the miss
conception that it’s not my job. It is your job, nobody except yourself
is responsible for your enjoyment of GWTA. If you are looking
for someone to entertain you, you are going to be disappointed.
Once you become involved with your friends and realize that they
depend on you as much as you depend on them to have fun I think
you will be amazed at just how many new friends you attract. That
my friends is the answer to how we can help our organization grow
and become stronger. Think of it this way, if you’re having fun with
your chapter you will be more likely to invite other friends to join
you. When more friends join you your chapter grows, when your
chapter grows your state grows, when your state grows your region
grows and then the national organization grows.
With more members in our national organization we become
more financially solvent with less money per member spent, but the
most important aspect of this is with more members we have more
friends to have fun with. If you are not having fun in your chapter
you need to be asking why. Is it because you are not participating,
or maybe your chapter is stuck in a rut? If you are not enjoying
yourself you need to speak up at your next chapter meeting. If you
are not enjoying yourself more than likely someone else is sharing
the same concerns. Come to your chapter meeting prepared with
ideas on what you can do to solve the problem and do not let others
tell you we have tried that and it did not work. Just because it did
not work once does not mean it will not work again. With new ideas
and new enthusiasm you just might stumble upon a good idea.
This is a member owned and run organization. In other words
this is just like a democracy. Member owned and run does not mean
that every member is going to get their way. We
need to operate as a team in our chapters. The
Chapter Director’s responsibility is to over see the
management of your chapter and to see that the
majority of your members’ needs are being met.
You have a responsibility as a member in your
chapter to voice your ideas and to contribute to
discussions. You do not have a right to force your
opinions on others. When decisions are made in
our chapters we all must support our chapter and
try to help make things work out. Not one of us
has the right to not participate and then complain
about the outcome. Only by getting involved with
your chapter do you have the right to help your
chapter become better.
Our chapters and their members are the most
important aspect of GWTA. You are the reason
that GWTA exists. You are the fun!
GWTA Region C Directors
Rick and Kandie Hinrichs
GWTA
12
Those of you familiar with the Region E Rally will recall that it
is always a riding rally. We have routes set up and copies are made
available for those that choose to ride on their own. We also have
5 or 6 guided rides set up on Saturday. The reason for multiple
rides, other than safety concerns of keeping the size of the group
small, is to allow each individual to choose the ride that most closely
matches the speed they desire to ride. Before the rides Kent Hott,
MSF Instructor, offers us a short seminar on riding the twisties. We
have many riders attend the rally that live in an area where curves
are not in abundance as they are at our rally site. Before each ride
begins there is a ride meeting. Each ride leader is an experienced
rider and they choose their sweep rider and make this known to the
group. This year Bob Anderson, MO State GWTA Director and
close friend, agreed to lead the slow ride for us. His wife, Glen was
to ride her trike as the sweep rider. Bob’s group stopped for a break
and lunch in Cape Fair, MO. When they started out again Bob met
a car head on just outside Cape Fair. The accident took the life of
a close friend to many of us. Even in this time of great sorrow and
grief our GWTA family pulled together to do what needed to be
done. This made the rally, in all other respects, successful.
Glen Anderson, Bob’s wife, sent us the following letter as an
open communication to be shared with the GWTA family via
Touring News.
To My GWTA Family,
As you all know, Bob Anderson was killed in a motorcycle
accident on June 6. We were attending the Region E Rally in Eureka
Springs, AR, and he was leading one of the rides. We still aren’t
sure what happened and probably never will get a definite answer.
Bob was doing what he loved to do, riding and enjoying the
twisty roads. He also loved GWTA and firmly believed in the
motto, Destination Friendship. As most of you know, he never
met a stranger and would talk to anyone. He enjoyed being with
the GWTA members and considered them all friends. He was a
strong supporter of GWTA and our chapter and could be relied on
to do what was necessary. He worked hard at being Missouri State
Director and we both enjoyed that. He was always ready to lend
a hand to help especially with tools or parts. The alternator that
he carried on his bike has been in a few friends’ bike to get them
where they were going.
GWTA
I just read Bruce Keenon’s article in the June Touring News. He
mentioned that GWTA is a family. Bob often commented that we
knew people all over the country because of GWTA. My family and
I have definitely found that GWTA is our extended family.
There are so many people to thank that it is overwhelming.
We would like to thank Wiliferd and Charlotte Lair for dropping
everything at the rally and coming to pick me up so I could get
back to Eureka Springs. They then made a stop at my house on the
way back from Region C Rally with a huge card and donations. To
Chuck Stallings who rode my trike back to the campground for me.
The members of my chapter who made sure I got home so that my
girls would not have to come to pick me up, making sure that my
trike and camper got home with me. To everyone at the Region E
rally who gave me support and to those who packed and folded up
the camper so that I wouldn’t have to do it.
To everyone who sent cards, called, and sent donations in Bob’s
name, my family and I send our heartfelt thank you. For those of
you who rode in the procession to the gravesite, it was an incredible
sight. I am told there were 42 bikes in that procession and I know
Bob got a big kick out of it. We are blown away by the number
of people who took time to do this. I was expecting members of
Chapter N, but there were people from all over this area. There
were so many kindnesses done, large and small; so many that I
cannot even begin to list. There aren’t words that can express our
gratitude that my family and I feel.
Bob will be missed terribly but I know that my family and I have
your love and support. We will keep this in our hearts during this
difficult time. I will eventually get on my bike and ride again. I
won’t see you at Gold Rush this year, but I will be thinking of you.
My prayer is that God keep all of you safe and cover you with His
blessings.
In love and friendship,
Glen Anderson, Audra and Tanya
13
Many changes are happening in our great Region. First off Marie
and I have become the new Region F Directors. We are excited
about the position and look forward to all the new adventures.
The second change in the Region is how we are growing. We
have added more chapters in Michigan and we are looking ahead
to adding others to the Region. The new chapters have written a
little article about themselves to let you now how they are doing
and what they are up to. They are excited and want to share it
with you.
Kelly Alton-Assistant Chapter Directors; Mackenzie Alton-Junior
Officer; Colleen Snethkamp-Treasurer; John/Colleen SnethkampRider Education; Robert/Jody Janisse-Membership Enhancement;
Larry/Carol Siniard-Chapter Pride and Special Projects; Ellen
Farr-Sunshine Lady; Jim/Ellen Farr-Chapter Directors.
As we sit here writing this article, we are reminiscing about all
the great events and games that took place while at the State Rally.
What a fantastic time had by all! A big THANKS to Norm and
Sandy our State Directors for such an awesome job!! It was very
relaxing, and while there we gained many new friends during the
GWTA CHAPTER G
long weekend. It was sad to leave. We had 5 bikes on our return
AUSABLE RIVER RIDERS
home. Wish we could have stayed a little longer, but we needed
GRAYLING, MICHIGAN
to get home so that we could unpack our camper and begin to
pack our trailer for our
The weather finally got warm enough for us snow next trip--The Gold Rush
birds up here to hit the road and that is what we did. Back Rally in Kentucky.
roads winding around, taking in all the beautiful northern scenery
GWTA has turned out
up to Mackinaw City. We stopped for dinner at the Key Hole Bar. to be everything we’d
Love those famous burgers and ice cold drinks... MMMMM. After hoped it would be and
a brief shopping spree (and I mean brief, Tom always says we can more. Chapter H-2 is
come back later) we headed out this time along Lake Michigan, consistently growing in
taking in the “Tunnel of Trees” which has got to be one of the numbers. We have so
most beautiful roads up here in this neck of the woods, along much to look forward to
into Harbor Springs, down into Petoskey and across more scenic with GWTA—we only
country roads back to Grayling for a total of a 253 mile ride.. It wish we would have
was a beautiful day.
joined years ago.
Tom and I would like to extend an open invitation to all you
We will be to most of the Region F rallies and events, so
folks if you are in our neck of the woods look us up... we would hopefully we’ll see you there.
love to share our travels with you. Fall colors are an awesome Winging our dreams,
time of year for “tunnel of trees”.
Jim and Ellen Farr, Chapter Directors
Ride Safe
Tom & Peggy Gilbert, Chapter Directors
GWTA CHAPTER J
Wheels of Friendship
Jackson, MI
GWTA CHAPTER H2
Down River Wings
Taylor, Michigan
On 3/26/09 we PROUDLY became GWTA’s Chapter H-2
Downriver Wings. Our kickoff party turned out to be really great.
We had almost 100 guests, which included many Chapters and
Chapter Directors from GWTA and GWRRA. What an exciting
time for all of us at H-2. One of the special highlights of the evening
for us—Bruce Keenon was there. He spoke to us on what GWTA
is all about. What a welcoming that was!!
Well, some time has passed by since then, and we are still
doing great!! We have been spending a lot of our time riding on
some really great rides weekly (and sometimes more than once
a week), and GWTA’s fun runs. Our staff consists of: Michael/
GWTA
Things we’ve learned along the way…
o never sneeze in a full face helmet
o hail hurts
o your happiness-your responsibility
The Chapter members of Wheels of Friendship take the last
one very seriously. Each member of GWTA Chapter J – Jackson,
MI has stepped up to that responsibility. Our thriving Chapter
is evident to that. Our webmaster, Artie Zinkan, has taken our
Chapter website “over the top”. Go to GWTAMICHAPTERJ.
COM. Artie devotes his knowledge and time to give us more than
we knew we could have. Jeannie Reece stepped up to Newsletter
Editor, and presents an informative and very enthusiastic newsletter
every month. Even though we are a very new chapter this year,
we already have a very successful Parking Lot Practice under
14
our belts. Our Ride Educator Tiger Tacey devoted a Saturday to
coaching us on “respecting the cones”. A majority of members
are already signed up and participating in the GWTA Rider Ed
Levels Program. We had an amazing Chapter Kick-Off Cook
Out in June. We are very thankful for all the members of GWTA
that attended, and wished us well in our
new venture. We met some wonderful
GWTA members and are looking forward
to riding with, and getting to know them.
In making a slide show for the kick-off, it
became evident that this is a very active
chapter. Just the pictures from events of
the month of May filled the show! If that’s
any indication of the level of involvement
of the members of Chapter J, watch out!!
We have our Ride Coordinators, Bob
Tacey and Gordon Rudolph, and the many members that presented
rides, to thank for keeping us so busy. The members are presented
with a ride opportunity at least once a week and every weekend.
While working on our flyer and logo for our Kick-Off, it became
evident we have some artists in our midst. Trish Tacey presented
an amazing logo for the Kick-off that was used on the flyer, the
cake (both of which she designed and made) and Kick-off T-shirts.
We hear rumblings there are more logo ideas rolling our way
from the members. We can hardly wait! Our Goodies Guys,
Don and Deb Lejeune, are keeping everyone in patches and pins
for creating their vests and there may be matching hats for the
ladies on the horizon. Also, words out, there
may be a Chapter mascot soon. We’ve also
had some very successful Chapter fundraisers.
Luckily we have a very talented Treasurer in
our midst. Chuck Chism has an extensive
banking background and is doing a great job
of keeping it all straight for us.
There seems to be no end to the enthusiasm
and ideas from this wonderful group of people
that got together just to “ride with friends”.
Our Chapter motto, by Linda Flavin is “Livin’
it, Lovin’ it, Ridin’ it”. Chapter J members are taking this to the
extreme, and GWTA provides the atmosphere and camaraderie to
broaden this enthusiasm. Hope to meet you all on the ride! Thank
you all for the warm welcome to GWTA family.
Keep the rubber side down,
Tony & Anna Edwards, Chapter Directors
Coming soon! Photos from the 2009 Region H Rally!
Watch for the November issue for highlights from Region H!
Region J Events
CYCLEFEST 2009, September 4-7, 2009. West Montrose Family
Camp Ground in the beautiful Waterloo Region of Ontario, Canada.
Banquet limited to the first 200 people registered. Registration
includes, camping Fri, Sat, Sun for usnerviced grassy site, rally
pin, bike and people field events, poker and ice cream runs,
entertainment, campfire and snacks, banquet and awards ceremony,
and door prizes. Contact Ian McDonald at [email protected]
or 519-896-0299 for more info.
GWTA
Fall Fun Weekend, September 25-27, 2009. You will experience
the north on the south shore of Lake Nipissing. Saturday at the
Waltonian Inn Resort we have poker runs, guided ride, an auction,
horseshoes and a dinner. Saturday evening after festivities the
brave will have an opportunity to join in our secret ceremony on
the beach with bonfire to become part of the Secret League of the
Loon. Book now – accommodations limited to one hundred people.
Fore more information visit the Region J Chapter NO – Nipissing
Riders website at http://nipissingriders.com.
15
I had the pleasure of attending Gold Rush in Lexington, Kentucky
this past summer and what a great time I had. I didn’t get to spend
the entire week there, but I made a kind of short business trip out of
it. I don’t get to all the Gold Rushes (one of those..... I’m retired and
on a fixed income kind of things) the economy seems to be eating
into everybody’s wallet lately. I did enjoy this Gold Rush because
I made a distinct effort to participate in the business end of GWTA.
I did find out that it takes a lot of effort by a lot of people to keep
this organization running.
The first day I pretty much spent the entire day in the board
meeting just sitting there watching and listening. These folks were
in that meeting from early morning till late afternoon conducting
the necessary business of GWTA. If you think they are partying
the day away behind closed doors, think again. I observed a lot and
learned a lot. If you have never attended a board meeting I suggest
you give it a shot next time the opportunity presents itself. You
will be amazed. My first thought was that if I intended to complain
about the board then I better have an idea of what goes on there. I
was really impressed by the business-like approach and they make
no decisions without keeping the best interests of GWTA in mind.
Nuf’ said about the board.
I think this may have been one of the best Gold Rush’s I have
GWTA
ever attended. It had a nice variety and number of vendors and you
really couldn’t ask for a better location. If I wanted to grumble about
anything, and I do, I guess it would be that whoever is responsible
for finding a hotel that is undergoing renovations every time there
is a Gold Rush..... Whoever that is, they are doing a fine job. There
you go, I made a positive statement out of that.
The trip out there was great. I rode out with friends and I think
I can safely say we all had a good time. Oh, by the way, if you
went to Lexington via I-64 and ran onto some bike parts lying in
the road..... they belong to Norm Kirk. Things kind of kept falling
off his bike and it got to the point that it became dangerous to ride
behind him.
These little sketches that I do for this article are usually first
impressions. Maybe they aren’t of any particular location, but they
are mostly accurate. Kentucky, as we all know, is horse country.
I’m pretty sure that these purebreds live much better than I do and
are taken better care of too. I like the long white fences and the
clean and well kept acreages. The houses and barns are beautiful
and the countryside is awesome. If you get a chance, visit the
area. Oh, and by the way, they make some pretty good bourbon in
Kentucky also...........
16
We have had another busy month at the Larson house. Summer
is in full swing as this article is being written and we are involved
in many activities, including motorcycling, camping and Jeeping
at the Sand Dunes. Summer has a lot to offer at our house and we
spend a lot of time outdoors enjoying the warm weather. I talked
about change last month. Fall weather will be only a month or so
away when this article is printed and those of us in the north know
what follows that. The thought of winter coming is not a pretty
picture.
As we move towards fall and wonder where the summer went,
the kids will return to school. Teresa is already off to Alma College
to begin her studies in Elementary Education. Following her high
school band days, she has joined the Kiltie Marching Band at Alma
for marching and concert performances as she continues to include
music as part of her education and life experiences. It has been an
adjustment at our house to not see Teresa on a daily basis. It’s hard
to imagine the five month old infant you first met at Gold Rush
IV (1991) in Coeur d’ Alene, Idaho is off to college as a incoming
freshman. Stacie will be a sophomore when she returns to Eaton
Rapids High School. She has been to band camp this summer and
will play in the Greyhound Marching Band this fall where they
will participate in football pre-game and half time shows, marching
competitions and parades. The nine month old child you first saw
at Gold Rush VII (1994) in Albuquerque, New Mexico, will turn 16
in November and if she finishes her required driving time by then,
she can get her drivers license.
Besides mid week rides with our local chapter, we recently
attended the Michigan State Rally. The temperatures were cooler
than normal for the end of June; however the sunny skies and
many activities made for a nice relaxed rally. We played games,
ate, did some riding and had time to socialize. Like all rallies, our
time together ended too soon and before we knew it three days had
passed and we were on our way home. One of the best parts of the
weekend was spending time with two very special people in GWTA,
Jay and Mary Bolton. They came to the rally with some of their
children, grandchildren and I believe even a great grandchild. It
was so great to see them and have the opportunity to meet some of
their family. We also had the opportunity to meet some more of
the new members from Chapters H2 and J that came to life earlier
this year here in Michigan. It is great to see these people becoming
involved in GWTA and have the opportunity to participate with us
as we continue to live out the Destination Friendship motto. We
would like to express our thanks to Norm and Sandy Helfer and the
many others who worked to provide the membership with another
fun event.
On behalf of our family, as I write this last article as the 2008
Family of the Year, I’d like to thank our many friends in GWTA
for their friendship, love and support, not only during our time as
Family of the Year, but throughout our entire time as members of
GWTA. This is a special association and we enjoy participating
where and when we can. As the outgoing Family of the Year, we
would like to offer congratulations to Doug & Michelle Sullivan
on becoming the 2009 Family of the Year.
Eric Larson on behalf of the Larson family
First things first, a very big “THANK YOU” to Di and Al
Hennings for being the Helping Hand Directors for the last five
years. They have done an outstanding job with Helping Hands!
Just in case you do not know us, we have been members since
1992. While in Nebraska we were chapter directors and assistant
state directors. In 1997 we moved to Tennessee where we have
been chapter directors, state directors and were Region D Board
Representatives.
We are very familiar with Helping Hands. After our daughter,
Adriane, had her accident we received funds from Helping Hands
and we have also done several different things to help support
Helping Hands. During Gold Rush in Sioux Falls, you may have
met Dennis while he was raffling off a Craftsman tool kit. Just ask
anyone in Region D about
their Board Rep. being fined
for indecent exposure by
Judge Regina to help raise
funds.
Our goal is to promote
Helping Hands and make
sure we have the funds
needed by our members.
We are sure the members of
GWTA will be generous with
their support for Helping
Hands and we will try to list
all donations received in our
future articles.
GWTA
17
REGION C RALLY 2009
When Wisconsin 2009 Region C Rally hostess Sherri Vonderheid
appeared onstage during closing ceremonies,
she said, “I had three goals for this rally: one,
I wanted at least 225 rally registrations;
two, I wanted rally goers out riding during
the day; three, I wanted to be able to pass a
healthy treasury balance to my successor.”
It is a measure of the success of that rally
that a few moments later she completed her
thought by stating, “We achieved all three
goals!”
Buoyed by high spirits, the love of
motorcycling, and fair weather, Region
C of the Gold Wing Touring Association
gathered 257 of its members June 12-14 at
the Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds in
Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, for two full days
of riding, relaxing, and reflection. It was one
of the best-ever regional rallies.
For riding there were over 1300 miles of
routes spread out over five self-guided and
four guided circuits. Vonderheid remarked,
“I was happy to see only about a dozen
attendees roaming around the fairgrounds
in the middle of the day Friday because
that meant everyone else was out riding.”
Destinations included The Highground
Veterans Memorial, The Ice Age Moraine
Trail exhibit (with its miles and miles
of pavement right next to the rivers),
the Laura Ingalls-Wilder museum and
homestead, the Eau Galle Cheese Factory,
and lots and lots of Wisconsin dairy farm
country. Stopping at the Hansen Hold Up
overlook afforded one a 20 mile vista of
river bottom agricultural territory. Ride
participants gathered at the well-marked
rally rendezvous areas and new Region C
Education Director Marcus Bauduin did
a great job making sure all the rides went
out without incident. We tip our hats to all
the Region C riders who took off for adventures in the Wisconsin
north woods.
GWTA
In the relaxation department the rally offered up friendly
competition in the Battle of the States, Dirty Bingo, a live auction, an
ice cream eating contest, and a bike show. BOTS winners included
Nebraska in the The Football Pass, Tug of
War (which darned near killed both teams)
over Illinois, and Pass the Sand (again over
Illinois). Illinois did win the Balloon Shoot
contest. Darrin Fleischmann defeated Holly
Wood of Illinois in overtime in the ice cream
eating contest, where Hannah Rose Sullivan
took honors in the youth division. Rick
Hinrichs won in the Custom bike show class,
Steve Duff took honors in the Gold Wing
stock division, Lynn Lovelien of Wisconsin
won for non-Gold Wing bikes, Charlie
Hicock won for best trike, and Rick Harvey
of Iowa garnered the People’s Choice Award
in the bike show.
Of course, all this competition generated
much-needed funds to keep important
programs going. Jail ‘n’ Bail raised over
$400 for Helping Hands in just two days. The
live auction conducted by Dan Dolan raised
a healthy amount for the general Region C
treasury. And both the state of Wisconsin and
Region C came up smiling when two 50/50
raffles produced over $500 for both Friday’s
and Saturday’s winners.
More “serious” friendly competition
went on in the process of selecting a Region
C Family of the Year. Doug, Michelle,
and Hannah Rose Sullivan from Nebraska
Chapter W emerged as our selection and will
represent Region C at the upcoming Gold
Rush and for the next 12 months. Judging
by their activity at the rally, they will be
tremendous as our FOY representative.
Along the same lines is the Ron Brooks
Award, given to the couple best exemplifying
the spirit of GWTA at the Region C Rally.
Barb and Tom Johnson were this year’s
recipient. Congratulations to the Sullivans
and the Johnsons!
Non-competitive fun activities included a showing of “Wild Hogs”
against a building wall Friday night. Rally staff popped popcorn for
18
the movie buffs. Everyone roared at the hilarious escapades of four
middle-aged “bikers” as we realized again just how funny that movie
is. A static motorcycle
light display (local
budgetary issues ruled
out the traditional moving
light parade) was held
in downtown Chippewa
Falls the next evening.
And for sure there was
eating. The bike display
was right across from an
ice cream parlor and rally
registration got you two
meals—Saturday breakfast and supper—instead of just one.
And the activities! Tours of nearby Leinenkugel’s Brewery were
held, and a few visited Irvine Park and its zoo across the street.
There was a casino to ride to along with convenient shopping just
blocks away in Chippewa Falls’ small but healthy downtown district.
Jereomy From held a web training session and Carol and Mike Brush
spoke about member education. Saturday morning Betty Smith
blessed dozens of motorcycles from Region C.
But the 2009 Region C Rally was also a time for reflection.
Missouri State Director Bob Anderson, a friend to many in Region
C, was tragically killed in a motorcycle accident just a week prior.
His family was remembered with an oversized sympathy card, a
moment of silence, a ride in his honor, and a free-will memorial.
Wisconsin’s first state director and former Ron Brooks Award winner
Ted Grindall passed away April 23. He was memorialized with a
picture collage, a eulogy by Jeryl Vonderheid with Ted’s family in
the audience, a ride in his honor, and a free-will donation to Ride
For Kids in Ted’s name.
Activities at Region C rallies change with the locale and times, but
it was the tried-and-true combination of friendship and camaraderie
that made the rally special. The Region C Rally is actually a reunion.
It’s a time to laugh, joke, talk motorcycling, and get caught up
again with each other’s lives. There’s almost never enough time
to visit adequately with everyone, but that’s the way it is when lots
of good friends meet each other. Rally activities come and go, but
Destination Friendship remains.
Trying to thank those that deserve it would take a long time.
However, we mention Region C Director Rick Hinrichs for emceeing
the entire affair. Many thanks go to Jenny Lipe and Randy Nelson,
who immediately preceded Hinrichs as region directors and got the
Chippewa Falls rally ball rolling. And, it would be hard to top the
efforts of Wisconsin State Directors Sherri and Jeryl Vonderheid.
Their staff did a lot, but they took care of countless things, both
major and minor, and answered endless questions, all while dealing
with Sherri’s health issues and surgeries. However, as Hinrichs said
more than once during the three-day event, it’s the members that
make GWTA and it’s the 257 rally participants that made the 2009
Region C Rally the gem that it was.
Order your copy of the 2009 Living Logo
for only $5! Contact the office
at 800-960-4982.
Dear Bruce & Linda Keenon,
I thought I would share this peaceful peom this lady wrote about me who lives
in Seligman, MO. I have made 3 or 4 trips back to visit her and she rode with
me when I was there, and you can see she was watching as we rode.
Wayne Smith
Yuba City, CA
Region C rocks!
What makes him ride is seldom seen,
It’s not as obvious as it may seem,
It’s the road, you see,
That differs him from you and me.
This road is a way of life
A way to freedom beyond the strife.
The road is the teacher of this traveling man,
The road is freedom in his balancing hand.
For wisdom comes with each passing mile,
One does not ride long, without adopting its style.
I watch him
This motorcycle man,
As mile passes into mile and year into year.
And as time goes by, I begin to see,
That it’s the love of the road that sets him free.
May God ride with him wherever he goes.
This I hope
He knows.
Submitted by,
Darrell Broten
GWTA
I watch him
This motorcycle man,
As he rides the wind about the land.
by Beverly Willis
Seligman, MO
19
Gold Rush XXIII: July 19-22, 2010
Billings, MT
HOST HOTEL - Crowne Plaza Hotel: 27 N. 27th Street, Billings, MT 59101 406-252-7400; $92 per night
mention Group Code GA312930 / Wash 0
Best Western ClockTower Inn: 2511 1st Ave North, Billings, MT 59101; 406-259-5511
Reservations 800-628-9081; $81 per night plus tax.
Boothill Inn & Suites: 242 E. Airport Rd, Billings, MT 59105 406-245-2000; $79 per night plus tax.
Dude Rancher Lodge: 415 N. 29th St., Billings, MT 59101; 800-221-3302; $69 per night plus tax.
Circle appropriate codes after name: A=Adult, C=Under 16, R=Rider, P=Passenger. Use name wanted on ID
Name ( A C R P )__________________________Name ( A C R P ) __________________________
Name ( A C R P )__________________________Name ( A C R P ) __________________________
Address_______________________City_____________State/Province_____ Zip/Postal_________
GWTA Chapter/St./Pr._______________ Membership #__________ Other Affiliation______________
E-mail_________________________Will you use:
Motel
Campground
Other
$50
$60
$15
$12
GWTA MEMBER Registration before 3/1/2010
NON MEMBER Registration
Welcome Dinner; Sunday, July 18th
Gold Rush XXIII T-Shirts
x
x
x
= $
= $
= $
x
= $
free x
= $
Total $
Children under 16 free (not eligible for drawing)
Welcome Dinner will be Sunday, July 18th
at the Crowne Plaza (Host Hotel). Time TBA.
T-shirt Pre-order
GR
XXIII
Pre
Order
T-shirts
Qty
Size
SM
MD
LG
XL
2XL
3XL
4XL
Visa/Mastercard/Amex #_________________________________________Expiration Date_______
Billing Address____________________________Billing Zip Code __________CVV2 Code_______
Cardholder Signature______________________________________________________________
Make checks and money orders, US funds, payable to: GWTA
REFUNDS MUST BE RECEIVED IN WRITING BEFORE JULY 1, 2010. NO REFUNDS WILL BE ISSUED
WITHOUT WRITTEN NOTICE. CONFIRMATION POSTCARDS WILL BE MAILED FOR ALL REGISTRATIONS
RECEIVED AT THE OFFICE. IF YOU HAVE NOT RECEIVED A CONFIRMATION POSTCARD CONTACT
THE OFFICE BEFORE THE NEXT CUT OFF DATE!! PLEASE NOTE: CONFIRMATION EMAILS FROM
ONLINE ORDERS ARE NOT SENT FROM THE OFFICE AND DO NOT CONFIRM THAT YOUR REGISTRATION WAS RECEIVED & PROCESSED.
1-800-960-GWTA (4982)
GWTA
20
www.gwta.org
FOR SALE
· 2005 Gold Wing, Black Cherry, 1800 cc, 22K miles, Garmin street pilot 2720
GPS, MP3 player, CB, AM/FM radio, Driver back rest, hand grips, Fog lights,
tall windshield/vent, highway pegs, trailer hitch, luggage rack, new Avon tires,
excellent condition/never down, one owner, synthetic oil—$15,495.
·
2000 Valkyrie Interstate with 2006 Motor Trike conversion, red/black, Ultimate
Valkyrie seat with driver back rest, fog lights, highway pegs, hand grips, air horn,
CB, AM/FM radio with intercom, rear speakers, tall windshield, trailer hitch,
dream catcher graphics by Mountain Man, 58K miles, modulating head lamp &
brake lights, new Avon front tire, excellent condition, one owner, synthetic oil,
—$17,950.
·
Star Light motorcycle trailer, independent suspension, black, cooler holder, swivel
tongue, hub caps, one owner, excellent condition—$985.
2007 CAR*MATE motorcycle hauler, 7’ X 16’ 700 HD series, white, dual axial,
floor ties and front wheel guides, roof vent, interior lights, side door with full
length latch, rear loading ramp counter balanced, one owner, like new—$4,695.
All manuals and accessories supplied with each item. Contact Dallas Craig 540 798-8254
or [email protected]
·
Do you have anything (motorcycle or
camping related) that you would like to
sell? Have you been looking for something? Let us know and we’ll run your ad
for FREE as a GWTA member.
GWTA
21
ALABAMA
(A) Wings Over Dixie
Mobile
TBA
Ron & Rachel Shaddix
(251) 625-4789 [email protected]
ALASKA
JR Phillips
(360) 387-3523
ARIZONA
(F) F Troop
(P) Lost Dutchman Wings
Steve Andrus
Mesa
Bob Howell
Prescott Valley Jack Scott
ARKANSAS
(E) Red River Riders
Searcy
Arthur Parsons
Arthur Churchill
(707) 429-9547
CALIFORNIA-NORTHERN
Dennis Therien
(A) Grapestompers
Stockton
Jim Jackson
(B) Redwood Wings
Sonoma
Tom Garske, Jr.
(E) Yosemite Wings
Clovis
John Reynolds
(F) River City Wings
Rancho Cordova Steve & Katie Bezanson
(J) Delta Wings
Antioch
Richard McMillan
(L) ClearlakeRoad Riders
Nice
Lynn Hollenback
(O) Shascade Wings
Redding
Les Long
(P) Diablo Valley Wings
Concord
Harry Davis
(R) Monterey Bay Wings
Santa Cruz
Doug Green
(S) Gold Country Riders
Paradise
Bob Merrick
(T) Tri-County Travelers
Marysville
Dennis Rogers
(V) Woodland Roadrunners
Woodland
John Hunrath
(X) Lassen Riders
Los Molinos
Terry Owen
(Z) Golden Gate Wings
San Bruno
Donald Tolbert, Jr.
(530) 877-4279
(209) 951-4427
(707) 933-9799
(559) 323-9807
(209) 745-5020
(925) 234-4352
(707) 263-7101
(530) 365-8107
(925) 686-3774
(831) 338-6804
(530) 872-0883
(530) 682-0529
(916) 682-0734
(530) 384-1407
(650) 952-7240
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
CALIFORNIA-SOUTHERN
Archie James
(I) Tri-Valley Wings
Covina
Sandie & David Fuller
(J) Desert Roadrunners
Yucca Valley
Peter Bryant
(L) Antelope Valley Wings
Lancaster
Gary Biddy
(O) Channel Islands Wings
Ventura
Charles Burton
(Q) SLO Wings
San Luis Obispo Dale Smith
(W) Victor Valley Wings
Victorville
Larry Marcum
(760) 220-8240
(626) 335-4793
(909 941-9668
(818) 352-1777
(805) 647-7382
(805) 458-0271
(760) 221-9653
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
COLORADO
(A) Front Range Gold
Longmont
(T) Trail Ridge Riders
Windsor
Dan & Linda McKelvey (970) 686-0430 [email protected]
Jim & Glenda Boggess (303) 772-3755 [email protected]
Don & Joyce White
CONNECTICUT
(M) Mid-State Navigators
Meriden
(V) Valley Riders
Shelton
John Griswold
David Laliberte
Joe Delnicky
DELAWARE
Phil Rueger
(860) 824-0005
FLORIDA & GEORGIA
TBA
HAWAII
Steve Andrus
(A) Big Island Buds
Hawaii Nat’l Park Fred Fogel
(707) 429-9547
IDAHO
(A) Southwest Idaho Wings
Boise
Chuck Hall
Mike Sherman
ILLINOIS
(A) Central Illinois Wings
Buckley
(B) Riverbend Riders
Troy
(C) Windy City Wings
Chicago
(F) Fun Troop Riders
Waterman
(G) Lincoln Land Gold Wheels Woodridge
(H) River City Riders
Moline
(P) Southern Pride
Mt. Vernon
Jack & Joyce May
Marvin Young
Deb Brem
Mark Busse
Art Eichelberger
Leo Prentice
Brian Lees
Tom Smithpeters
(309) 797-7919
(815) 457-2667
(618) 538-7511
(773) 764-0421
(815) 264-3271
(630) 971-8861
(309) 786-7220
(618) 242-9701
GWTA
22
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
INDIANA
(H) Hoosier Heartland Wings
Elwood
(P) Presidential Wings
Huntington
(Z) Wings ‘N More
Knox
John & Marilla Jager
Barb & Sam Baker
Jack Miller
Bill Lutz
(574) 643-2545
IOWA
(A) Gold Wing Aces
Burlington
(H) Friendship Riders of Iowa
Des Moines
(I) Polk County Wings
Des Moines
(J) Nodaway River Eagles
Essex
(L) Loess Hills Riders
Council Bluffs
(P) Nishna Valley Wings
Glenwood
Don Thomason
William Warth
Steve Patton
Dennis Irvin
Jay Liniger
Barry Frum
Yvonna Allen
(641) 493-2053
(319) 367-5119
(515) 278-9051
(515) 287-5466
(712) 303-0524
(712) 545-3028
(712) 825-3008
KANSAS
(A) Air Capital Wings
Wichita
(B) East Kansas Tour Riders
Kansas City
(C) Western Kansas Wings
Dodge City
(E) “Kansas Chapter E”
Salina
(L) Leavenworth Tour Riders
Leavenworth
(S) Wheatland Tour Riders
Olathe
(T) Prairie Trail Riders
Topeka
Roger & Glory Scholl
Donna Felix
John English
Monte Harder
Bob Campbell
Rodger Dittemore
Craig Kelsey
Bob & Sally Gast
(316) 778-1380
(316) 773-2598
(913) 871-1489
(620) 225-7052
(785) 823-1546
(913) 727-1953
(913) 268-4329
(785) 249-8737
KENTUCKY
(B) Kentucky Cruisers
Bardstown
(P) Pulaski Christian Motorcyclists Somerset
(Q) Kentucky Roadrunners
Shepherdsville
Ben Crowe
Donald Avis
Gary Hampton
Alan Bybee
(606) 382-5479
MAINE
(A) Sunshine Riders
Sebago
Phil Rueger
(860) 824-0005
Al Doyon & Jeff Carson (207) 854-4061 [email protected]
MASSACHUSETTS
Phil Rueger
(860) 824-0005
MICHIGAN
(A) Capital Area Wings
Lansing
(C) Cereal City Wings
Battle Creek
(E) Wings of Eagles
Kalamazoo
(G) Ausable River Riders
Grayling
(H) Livingston Wings
Brighton
(H-2) Downriver Wings
Taylor
(J) Wheels of Friendship
Parma
(K) Grand Valley Wings
Grand Rapids
(N) North Woods Wings
Greenville
(W) West Michigan Roadrunners Otsego
Norm & Sandy Helfer
Vickie Hammond
Richard Thayer
Keith & Diane Diller
Tom & Peggy Gilbert
Ron Klann
Jim Farr
Tony Edwards
Amy Campbell
Randy Treynor
Joel Krueger
(517) 694-4665
(517) 646-7314
(269) 758-3219
(269) 665-9839
(989) 344-6891
(810) 231-6747
(313) 291-5855
(517) 795-6401
(269) 623-8725
(616) 794-2777
(269) 377-9928
MINNESOTA
(F) Minnesota F Troop
Hinckley
Rick Hinrichs
Kenneth Beal
MISSISSIPPI
Larry & Michele Abramson
MISSOURI
(L) Lake Country Riders
Springfield
(N) K.C. Tour Riders
Platte City
Glen Anderson
(816) 587-9536
Steve Short
Philip & Barbara Konzak (816) 792-9647 [email protected]
MONTANA
JR Phillips
NEBRASKA
(A) Heartland Wings
Omaha
(B) Great Plains Riders
Bellevue
(C) Husker Wings
Lincoln
(E) Platte Valley Wings
North Platte
(G) Spirit of Friendship Wings
Omaha
(M) Monarch Wings
Papillion
(W) Frenchman Valley Riders
Wauneta
(Z) Country Wings
Blair
Dave Willenborg
(402) 679-7940
Kim & Becky Johnston (402) 896-9717 [email protected]
Michael Reinert
(402) 293-9560
Eldon Ogorzolka
Dale & Deb Kleewein
Bill & Jean Pierce
Barb Mills
Doug & Michelle Sullivan(308) 387-4669 [email protected]
Peggy Hakanson
GWTA
23
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
(360) 387-3523
NEVADA
(C) Silver State Riders
Las Vegas
(E) Vegas Valley Wings
Las Vegas
Steve Andrus
Randie & Janet Buss
Jim Henry
(707) 429-9547
NEW HAMPSHIRE
Phil Rueger
(860) 824-0005
NEW JERSEY & NEW YORK
NEW MEXICO
(A) New Mexico SunRunners
Alamogordo
NORTH CAROLINA
(R2) N.C. Rebel Riders
Fayetteville
Phil Rueger
Steve Andrus
John Gilsdorf
TBA
Clifford Hopkins
(860) 824-0005
(707) 429-9547
NORTH DAKOTA
(H.R.) Rough Riders
Mandan
Keith LaCoe
Keith LaCoe
(701) 391-2864
OHIO
(B) Top of Ohio Wings
Bellefontaine
(E) Enchanted Wings
Toledo
(G) Gone With the Wings
Youngstown
(H) Hi-way Cruisers
Madison
Kris Rogers
Tim Harman
Don Price
TBA
Charles Jewett
(989) 770-3933
(419) 693-1778
OKLAHOMA
(X) Oklahoma’s First
Hominy
Ray McGrew
Bill Simpson
OREGON
(A) Rogue Valley Wings
Grants Pass
(B) Cascade Range Riders
Bend
(M) Mountain Valley Riders
Medford
(P) Columbia Wings
Portland
(T) Trask Mountain Wings
McMinnville
Randi Kobernik
Ken Krois
Bill Rodgers
Steve O’Dell
Mike & Dana Speer
Robert Dodson
(541) 389-0343
(541) 474-1178
(541) 317-3953
(541) 479-8668
(503) 690-9783
(503) 472-9358
PENNSYLVANIA
(B) Keystone Wings
Oil City
Bud & Karen Price
Scott Dunkle
SOUTH CAROLINA
SOUTH DAKOTA
(C) Gold Wings Plus
Rapid City
(D) Sooland Goldwing Club
Dell Rapids
TBA
Thomas Hilgemeier
Diane Smith
Pat Feuerhelm
(605) 719-9419
(605) 342-7410
(605) 582-8707
TENNESSEE
(A) Nashville Tour Riders
Nashville
Bryan Seery
George Deskins
TEXAS
(B) Roaming Wings
Bedford
(E) The Eyes of Texas
Garland
(L) Lone Star Riders
Cleveland
(RR) The Road Rangers
Texarkana
(T) Texas Touring Riders
Winnsboro
(V) Ghost Riders of the Rio Grande Valley Harlingen
Jerry Burford
JJ Jean
Jay Perkins
Bruce Cain
Tommy Dossey
Ron Lawson
Judith Emsley
(936) 858-4696
(214) 882-5849
(972) 288-6848
(281) 450-2438
(903) 831-4686
(903) 439-9599
(956) 425-8928
UTAH
Steve Andrus
(707) 429-9547
VERMONT
Phil Rueger
(860) 824-0005
VIRGINIA
(C) Looney Toon Riders
Roanoke
Paul Pillion
Bud Atkinsnon
(540) 537-9282
(540) 265-2986
WASHINGTON
(A) Emerald City Wings
Federal Way
(B) Stilly Valley Wings
Stanwood
(C) Evergreen Wings
Marysville
(D) Northwest Wings
Seattle
(E) Lake Washington Gold
Bellevue
(G) Lilac City Wings
Spokane
Don Sims
Becky & Paul Behan
John Black
Bruce & Barb Peterson
Al “Cowboy” Mitchell
Paul & Janet Kesler
Lyle Polack
(360) 856-5815
(206) 431-8996
(360) 793-0139
(425) 267-9443
(253) 538-4915
(253) 631-1710
(509) 239-4548
GWTA
24
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
WASHINGTON CONT’D
(I) Island Wings
(L) Smoking Mountain Riders
(Q) The Q Crew
(S) Skagit Valley Wings
(U) Okanogan Valley Wings
(V) Auburn Valley Wings
(Y) Yakima Valley Wings
(Z) Sequim Valley Wings
Langley
Longview
Chehalis
Mount Vernon
Okanogan
Federal Way
Sunnyside
Sequim
John Van Every
(360) 675-1240
Wil Ditton
(253) 884-5644
Julie & Larry Weese
(360) 736-5989
Brad Hill
(360) 848-7771
Greg Bolinger
(509) 923-2409
Steven & Cameron Gillit (253) 208-9275
Jon Hopwood
(509) 965-3002
Mike & Linda Zmiarovich(360) 681-8085
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
WISCONSIN
(GB) N.E.W. Riders Green Bay
(Y) River Valley Riders
Eau Claire
Sherri Vonderheid
Patrick Williams
Darrell Broten
(715) 839-9986
WYOMING
JR Phillips
(360) 387-3523
ALBERTA
(B) Foothills Fhantoms
Red Deer
(C) Chinook Wings
Calgary
Murray Perrett
Ken Wigmore
Bob Pyle
(403) 286-4798
BRITISH COLUMBIA
(A) Harbour City Wings
Nanaimo
JR Phillips
Dave Ferrero
(360) 387-3523
NEW FOUNDLAND, NEW BRUNSWICK, PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND, NOVA SCOTIA
Jim Anderson
(905) 563-0003
ONTARIO DIVISION 1
(F) Ajax-Pickering Friendship Riders Pickering
(G) Niagara Wings
St. Catharines
(M) Mississauga Wings
Mississauga
(N) Northumberland Wing Riders Port Hope
(T) Toronto Wings
Toronto
(W) Waterloo Touring Wings
Waterloo
Jim Anderson
Denis Kavanagh
TBA
Bob & Pam Beland
John Milner
(905) 563-0003
(905) 623-4973
(905)563-0003
(905) 866-7944
(905) 885-4254
Nedda Lash & Kevin Welch (416) 636-8395
Kevin Dyne
(519) 653-7542
ONTARIO DIVISION 2
(H) Huronia Riders
Penetang
(K) York-Simcoe Riders
Newmarket
(NO) Nipissing Riders
Redbridge
(P) Liftlock Riders
Peterborough
(Z) Barrie Wingz
Wasaga Beach
Rick Moore
Rose Moore
John & Cheryl Lemaitre
Mickey Sandula
TBA
Lee Thompson
(705) 549-4065
ONTARIO DIVISION 3
(B) Ottawa Gold Wing Riders
Ottawa
(PS) 30,000 Island Riders
Parry Sound
(R) Renfrew County Ramblers
Renfrew
(S) Sudbury Gold Wings
Sudbury
Jim Anderson
Dwight Buckland
TBA
TBA
TBA
(905) 563-0003
(905) 563-0003
(905) 563-0003
BUFFALO SOLDIERS CHAPTER LISTINGS
Brooklyn Buffalo Soldiers Motorcycle Club
Abdul-Qaadir
New Jersey Buffalo Soldiers Motorcycle Club, Inc. Michael Wright
GWTA
25
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
(718) 490-6919 www.brooklynbuffalotroopers.com
(732) 625-2432
GWTA National events
Gold Rush XXIII July 19-22, 2010. Billings, MT. Gold Rush XXIII will
be held in Billings, MT in 2010. The host hotel is the Crowne Plaza.
Please see the registration form in this issue of Touring News for
hotel and rally information or contact the GWTA National Office
at 800-960-4982.
Region a
A Washington State Wide Early 60’s Poker Run, September 11-12,
2009. The Washington State Wide early 60’s poker run will benefit
the Chehalis Veterans Memorial Museum in conjunction with the
Patriots Day weekend. Each chapter will organize and conduct
its own event. Conduct the usual 50/50 drawing. Recommend
$10 per person entering the Poker Run with 50% of the till going
to the Museum and 50% to the winner. Support the Museum
that supports the Veterans. Make checks payable to: Veterans
Memorial Museum and mail to 100 Veterans Way, Chehalis,
WA 98532. Contact Pete Slempa, [email protected], for
additional information.
Wings & Wheels Festival, October 3-4, 2009. East Wenatchee, WA.
$15 registration fee (includes parade, poker run, games, Saturday
night dinner, show & shine, and ride pin). $5 registration fee for
PARADE ONLY. This fun filled family event features a Motorcycle
Fest, Classic Car Show & an Airplane Fly-In. FREE musical
entertainment for your listening pleasure. Davis Shows Carnival
will be on hand for thrills & chills, a food & craft fair and FREE kids
activities. Fuel up for the day at the Kiwanis Club breakfast for
just $4 per person. Don’t miss the thrills of the “Ride and Glide
Extreme Stunt Team”. Visit www.east-wenatchee.com or call Dawn
at 509-886-6108 for more info.
Wing Washington 2009 Chapter “E”, January – October 2009.
Wing WA is a photo journey of WA state. Take a picture of you
and your bike at 37 sites throughout the state. Banquet, photo
check-in, and prize drawing, Saturday October 10, 2009 at the
Renton Community Center. You have a chance to win great prizes
and benefit a very worthwhile charity, Eastside Domestic Violence,
and their children’s Christmas wish tag program. To register visit
www.LakeWashingtonGold.com/WingWa or contact Jerry Weltner
at 425-867-9704.
Vampire Chili Bite, October 17, 2009. GWTA Chapter V, Auburn
Valley Wings, invites you to the annual Vampire Chili Bite, chili
social and blood drive at Hinshaws Motorcycle Store in Auburn, WA.
Got a great chili or cornbread recipe? Bring it along to share! All
bikes and clubs are welcome! Bloodmobile on site from 11:00am
– 3:00pm. Contact 253-939-7164 for more information.
REGION B
Ride for Kids. Northern California. October 4, 2009. Please join
us for a CHP escorted ride through the beautiful wine country and
ranches of Suisun Valley. Our event this year has moved from
Pleasanton and Woodland to Solano Community College, just north
off of the 80 freeway. Registration begins at 7:30am and the ride
starts promptly at 10:00am. We will have a light breakfast & lunch
at the end of the ride for our Celebration of Life. For more info
GWTA
contact Jon Carlson at [email protected] or 925-998-1111.
Phoenix Ride for Kids. Mesa, AZ. October 11, 2009. Come join
us for a police escorted ride through the beautiful Tonto National
Forrest. Registration opens at 8am and ride leaves sharply at 10.
Minimum $35 per bike to join the fun. Light breakfast and box
lunch provided at the celebration of life. For more info contact
Paul Trinker 602-670-6271 or Dennis Draper 309-242-1955.
Region C
Honor the Fallen Motorcycle Ride, September 19, 2009.
Weyerhaeuser, WI. Motorcycle ride & fundraiser to honor fallen
soldier LCpl Andrew Matus. Proceeds go to the Andrew Matus
Mechanical Engineering Scholarship Fund. Join us at Burdy’s Bar,
Weyerhaeuser, WI for any of these events Pancake Breakfast 8:3011 am $5 per person; Ride Registration 8:30-11 am $10 per person,
leave at 11:15 for a 100 mile ride with 2 stops. Return to Burdy’s
Bar for supper & raffles, etc. Public is welcome to attend. Call Tim
or Pam for more info at 715-532-4848.
Fall Color Ride, October 4, 2009. Marshfield, WI. Fall Color Ride
on the YellowStone Trail in and around Marshfield, WI. Registration
begins Friday, October 2, 2pm – 11pm at Wildwood Park, 1800
South Central, (South Hwy 13), or Saturday, October 4, 8am –
Noon, at Nutz Deep, 809 South Central Ave., Marshfield. Poker
Run books and wristbands will be obtained at registration. Friday
night kicks off with an Oktoberfest celebration with Oktoberfest
brats and fixings. Micro-brewery taste testing, food, live music, and
a poker run. Come for a fun filled weekend and enjoy the historic
Yellowstone Trail (www.yellowstonetrail.org) and the beautiful Fall
colors. Call 800-422-4541 for more information.
Big Thunder Run, October 4, 2009. Batavia, IL. Big Thunder Run
Poker Run helps those who fought for our freedom, America’s
Veterans. All proceeds go to help Veterans and obtain accountability
of all POW/MIA. Poker Run, Bike Show, Bike Raffle, Raffles, Live
Music. Registration starts at 9am. Contact Kriss at 630-546-0270
for more info.
Region D
5th Annual Raleigh Rumble, September 4-5, 2009, Raleigh, NC. The
North Carolina chapter of Ton-Up, the Cape Fear chapter of the
Brit Iron Rebels and the Incriminators Scooter Club would like to
extend this invitation to join us and several other vintage motorcycle
enthusiasts from around the world to the 5th Annual Modds vs.
Rockers, Raleigh Rumble Bike Show & Rally. Location: Players
Retreat – 105 Oberlin Rd., Raleigh, NC 27605. Call 919-755-9589
for more info or visit www.raleighrumble.com.
Thunder in the Smoky’s Rally, September 11 – 13, 2009, Maggie
Valley, NC. Located in Maggie Valley, NC in the heart of the Great
Smoky Mountains, Thunder in the Smokies has much to offer from
great roads to ride such as the Blue Ridge Parkway to the Cherohala
Skyway and many more. Music concerts, tour ride, bike games,
bike show, variety of vendors and much more! For pas event
pics, directions, schedules, roads to ride & more check out www.
HandlebarCorral.com. Join us every Spring & Fall!
26
Region E
Eastern Kansas Tour Riders 2009 Land of Ahhh’s self guided tour.
Register and complete a tour of KS sites by the end of November
and receive a Land of Ahhh’s pin and tour bar in addition to the
memories of great Land of Ahhh’s rides, roads, people, and places.
For details and more information visit www.ektr.org or email
[email protected] or [email protected].
Keepin the Faith Biker Rally. September 5, 2009. Rogers, AR. AM
& PM scenic motorcycle rides, bike show and games, festival foods,
awesome door prizes, kids’ area and 35 vendors providing stuff like
biker leather, patch sewing, tattoos, face painting, give aways, bike
group info, and ministry. Hip live music as well as Christian ministry
onstage throughout the day. Check www.keepinthefaithrally.tripod.
com, [email protected] or call 479-254-0145 for info.
Labor Day Oregon Ride. September 5-20, 2009. Colorado Chapter
A. Contact Jim or Betty Hunzeker at 303-828-3815 or bucknbetty@
mesanetworks.net.
9/11 Motorcycle Tribute Parade. September 12, 2009. Colorado
Springs, CO. Ride registration 9am – 11am. $5 donation per person
benefits United States Marine Corps Toys for Tots. Black armband
for first 200 riders. Call 719-487-8005 for more info.
Cheyenne’s Rally 3rd Annual. September 12, 2009. San Angelo, TX.
3rd Annual Cheyenne’s Rally benefiting Children’s Miracle Network
in memory of 13 year old Cheyenne Fiveash. Motorcycle Run, show
& games, live and silent auctions, food, live music, drawings, prizes,
and tons of activities for the entire family. Run starts at Family
Power Sports, Houston Harte Expwy in San Angelo, TX. 1st bike out
10am, last bike in 1pm. All other activities at Kirby Park & Pavilion at
1400 Edmund Blvd. in San Angelo. 100 percent of proceeds benefit
the CMN. This event is now the 2nd largest fundraiser for CMN in
this area. Join us for fun and to raise money for a wonderful cause.
Call 325-949-6977 for more info.
2nd Annual GWTA Texas State Rally. September 18-20, 2009. Texas
State Railroad, Rusk, Texas Campgrounds. This rally will offer a fun
run, biker games, silent auction, door prizes, train rides, bike shows,
food and bike vendors, self guided rides and new for this year, a
geocaching game for those of you who utilize gps’s. Campsites
are available for $10 per night with two bikes per campsite. RV/
Vendor sites will be available for $25 per night. Admission is $10
per person, fun run will be $5 per person and the geocaching will
be $5 per person.
GWTA Kansas Fall Campout. September 25-27, 2009. The GWTA
Kansas Fall Campout will be held at the Canning Creek pavilion
“S1” at Council Grove Lake located by Council Grove, KS. Several
RV spots or tent spots around the pavilion are available for $5 per
night, but you must call Roger at 316-312-1118 to reserve your spot.
Hotel sleepers need to make your own reservations. Food cost is $8
per person. Friday evening meal, Saturday breakfast and Saturday
evening meal are provided. Activities will include group events,
campfire, gift shops, ice cream ride, group rides, 50/50, prizes and
more. Pre-registration form is available at www.gwtaregione.
homestead.com and click on the menu option called “Rallies” or
call Roger at 316-312-1118 for more information.
Leavenworth Chapter “L” 17th Annual Fall Color Ride and Poker
Run. October 4, 2009. Lansing, KS. Rain or Shine. Prizes, good
ride, good food, good friendship!! For details see our website at
www.lvgwta.org or call Rodger at 913-727-1775.
Sparks America Halloween Bash. October 22-25, 2009. Location:
GWTA
346507 East 0990, Sparks, OK 74869. Contact Angie at 918-8662543 or visit www.sparksamerica.com for more info.
REGION F
GWTA Dinner Run September 12, 2009. Das Dutchman Essenhaus,
Middlebury, IN. Contact Max & Pat Krueger for more information
at 269-694-9746.
Motorcycle Run & Pig Roast. September 12, 2009. Middletown,
OH. 4th Annual Motorcycle Run & Pig Roast to benefit Abilities
First. $25 rider/$30 couple includes: lunch (midway point), dinner,
raffle, & live entertainment. Receive $5 discount if you pre-register.
Available at Middletown Elks Lodge #257. Middletown Moose Pig
Roast (Rain or Shine). Open to the public – 5:00pm. Admissions
$10. Registration 1:00am – 12:00pm. Abilities First (parking lot)
4710 Timber Trail Drive Middletown, OH. Scenic Ride: 7 covered
bridges of Preble County, OH (100 miles). The ride will end at the
Elks Lodge, 6475 Trenton-Franklin Road (Pig Roast). Contact Connie
at 513-423-9496 for more information.
The Pink and Chrome - Ride for the Cure is an open motorcycle
event to raise money for Susan G. Komen for the Cure of Greater
Cincinnati. This is an 80 mile pledge ride, with awesome door prizes,
club awards, entertainment, and some incredible awards and prize
drawings! The ride is Saturday, October 3rd, 2009 in Dayton, Ohio.
Registration begins at 9:00 am, with first bike out at 11:00 am, and
the last bike in at 4:00 pm. Prizes and awards will be handed out
starting at 4:30. This will be an 80 mile scenic ride, with plenty of
“pit stops” and things to see along the way. The route will be posted
the day of the ride, stay tuned for more information on the start
and end locations and stops along the route! Bring as many of your
friends and riding buddies as possible. This is going to be a GREAT
ride! Contact Toni or Don Webb at [email protected].
GWTA Michigan Fall Color Tour. October 9-12, 2009. The 3rd
annual combined chapter color tour will kick off in Gaylord this year
to take advantage of the farther north, color enhanced beauty of
the upper region of the Lower Peninsula. Different fun runs will be
available for Saturday & Sunday, either guided or on your own. A
buffet dinner is planned for Saturday evening at BJ’s Restaurant at
6:30pm. The buffet is $13.99 with prime rib, $29.99 with crab legs.
Headquarters will be Alpine Lodge, located at exit 282 on I-75. Call
989-732-2431 for reservations. For questions about the Fall Color
Tour, contact Ron or Bette Klann at 810-231-6747.
REGION H
Bikers for Babies, October 11, 2009. Mechanicsville, MD. This
45 mile police escorted ride will begin with an official line-up at
2:00pm on the ¼ mile race track and take you on a scenic ride
through beautiful Southern Maryland when the fall foliage is at its
peak. The ride will end at Apehangers Bar & Grill in Bel Alton, MD
for a free after-ride party with all the trimmings, including a live
band! All proceeds benefit the March of Dimes. Sunday October
11th at the Maryland International Raceway, 27861 Budds Creek
Road, Mechanicsville, MD 20659. Registration begins at 10am.
Come early and enjoy the races, vendors, deejay, and snack bar.
Ride starts at 2:00pm. Registration fee $35 per rider ($60 rider
& passenger). Contact Deanna at 703-824-0111 ext. 18 for more
info.
27
Check out Region J events on Page 15!
Commitment: Cornelis Eckerson, Region A, WA, Chapter Z;
Cecilia Eckerson, Region A, WA, Chapter Z; Steve Bezanson,
Region B, CA, Chapter NF; Kathyrn Bezanson, Region B, CA,
Chapter NF; Douglas Pawledge, Region B, CA, Chapter NS; Nancy
Pawledge, Region B, CA, Chapter NS; Robert Merrick, Region
B, CA, Chapter NS; Linda Merrick, Region B, CA, Chapter NS;
Gary Hemingway, Region C, NE, Chapter G; Teresa Hemingway,
Region C, NE, Chapter G; Chuck Chism, Region F, MI, Chapter
J; Mj Allmond, Region F, MI, Chapter J; Robert S. Tacey, Region
F, MI, Chapter J; Teresa Tacey, Region F, MI, Chapter J; Gordon
Rudolph, Region F, MI, Chapter J; Ella May Rudolph, Region F,
MI, Chapter J; Richard Fetterman, Region F, MI, Chapter J; Cheryl
Fetterman, Region F, MI, Chapter J.
Level I: Cornelis Eckerson, Region A, WA, Chapter Z; Cecilia
Eckerson, Region A, WA, Chapter Z; Steve Bezanson, Region B,
CA, Chapter NF; Kathyrn Bezanson, Region B, CA, Chapter NF;
Douglas Pawledge, Region B, CA, Chapter NS; Nancy Pawledge,
Region B, CA, Chapter NS; Robert Merrick, Region B, CA, Chapter
NS; Linda Merrick, Region B, CA, Chapter NS; Gary Hemingway,
Region C, NE, Chapter G; Teresa Hemingway, Region C, NE,
Chapter G; Chuck Chism, Region F, MI, Chapter J; Mj Allmond,
Region F, MI, Chapter J; Robert S. Tacey, Region F, MI, Chapter J;
Teresa Tacey, Region F, MI, Chapter J; Gordon Rudolph, Region F,
MI, Chapter J; Ella May Rudolph, Region F, MI, Chapter J; Richard
Fetterman, Region F, MI, Chapter J; Cheryl Fetterman, Region F,
MI, Chapter J.
Level II: Sandy Svik, Region A, WA, Chapter D; Candy Craig,
Region A, WA, Chapter D; Al (Cowboy) Mitchell, Region A, WA,
Chapter D; Dale Smith, Region A, WA, Chapter D; Patrick Fitch,
Region A, WA, Chapter D; Bill Tuff, Region A, WA, Chapter D;
Sean Wilkie, Region A, WA, Chapter D; Dale Snipes, Region A, WA,
Chapter G; Larry Barham, Region A, WA, Chapter G; Joseph Finley,
Region A, WA, Chapter S; Paul J. Carmean, Region A, WA, Chapter
Z; Kathleen S. Carmean, Region A, WA, Chapter Z; Cornelis
Eckerson, Region A, WA, Chapter Z; Cecilia Eckerson, Region
A, WA, Chapter Z; Gary Hemingway, Region C, NE, Chapter
G; Teresa Hemingway, Region C, NE, Chapter G; Chuck Chism,
Region F, MI, Chapter J; Mj Allmond, Region F, MI, Chapter J;
Robert S. Tacey, Region F, MI, Chapter J; Teresa Tacey, Region F,
MI, Chapter J; Gordon Rudolph, Region F, MI, Chapter J; Ella May
Rudolph, Region F, MI, Chapter J; Richard Fetterman, Region F,
MI, Chapter J; Cheryl Fetterman, Region F, MI, Chapter J; Harold
E. Price, Region F, PA, Chapter B; Scott Dunkle, Region F, PA,
Chapter B; Lori M. Norris, Region F, PA, Chapter B.
Level III: Sandy Svik, Region A, WA, Chapter D; Candy Craig,
GWTA
Eckerson, Region A, WA, Chapter Z; Cecilia Eckerson, Region A,
WA, Chapter Z; Gary Hemingway, Region C, NE, Chapter G; Teresa
Hemingway, Region C, NE, Chapter G; Chuck Chism, Region F,
MI, Chapter J; Mj Allmond, Region F, MI, Chapter J; Robert S.
Tacey, Region F, MI, Chapter J; Teresa Tacey, Region F, MI, Chapter
J; Gordon Rudolph, Region F, MI, Chapter J; Ella May Rudolph,
Region F, MI, Chapter J; Richard Fetterman, Region F, MI, Chapter
J; Cheryl Fetterman, Region F, MI, Chapter J. Level IV: Sandy Svik, Region A, WA, Chapter D; Candy Craig,
Eckerson, Region A, WA, Chapter Z; Cecilia Eckerson, Region A,
WA, Chapter Z; Gary Hemingway, Region C, NE, Chapter G; Teresa
Hemingway, Region C, NE, Chapter G; Chuck Chism, Region F,
MI, Chapter J; Mj Allmond, Region F, MI, Chapter J; Robert S.
Tacey, Region F, MI, Chapter J; Teresa Tacey, Region F, MI, Chapter
J; Gordon Rudolph, Region F, MI, Chapter J; Ella May Rudolph,
Region F, MI, Chapter J; Richard Fetterman, Region F, MI, Chapter
J; Cheryl Fetterman, Region F, MI, Chapter J.
SRC: Paul J. Carmean, Region A, WA, Chapter Z; Kathleen S.
Carmean, Region A, WA, Chapter Z; Cornelis Eckerson, Region
A, WA, Chapter Z; Cecilia Eckerson, Region A, WA, Chapter Z;
Harold E. Price, Region F, PA, Chapter B; Scott Dunkle, Region F,
PA, Chapter B; Lori M. Norris, Region F, PA, Chapter B.
10 yr. renewals: Paul J. Carmean, Region A, WA, Chapter Z;
Kathleen S. Carmean, Region A, WA, Chapter Z.
Hello to All of our GWTA Family
The following is a plea for everyone to please wear that Safety
gear at all times while riding. You can’t predict when that dog, kid,
deer, or anything else is going to enter your path of travel. It could
be right down the street or while traveling far from home. I guess
that because of accepting the position of GWTA National RED we
are more aware than ever before.
Back in 1958, when I first started riding, Engineer Boots and
Leather Jackets were the rage so I wore safety gear to look cool.
Helmets weren’t thought of yet and I didn’t have a windshield but
sunglasses completed the cool look. Besides, the helmet would have
messed up my Duck Tail and Waterfall hair-do.
Anyway, being more aware, and due to our NRED assignment, we
receive too many accident reports not to mention newspaper articles
getting our attention. Some are a relief to read when were told that
the rider was wearing safety gear and was able to ride away. More
of them say that the rider was not wearing safety gear and either
suffered severe injury or death. The pictures really get our attention.
Go to: http://www.rockthegear.org/ and read what people who were
in an accident have to say about safety gear.
Judy wore her jacket when I wore a Tee shirt and we both wore
¾ helmets. Now we both wear jackets, gloves, boots, long pants
28
and full face helmets. I have over 250,000 accident free miles riding a motorcycle and that
only means, to me, that the odds are greater that an accident is in our future. I hope that’s
not true but you can’t control every situation. Motorcycle riding is a dangerous sport so we
are taking all the safety precautions available but still enjoying the ride. Actually, the ride
is a little more comfortable knowing that we are wearing our safety gear.
GWTA does not require you to wear safety gear except when you’re participating in
the SRC Rider Education. It’s a choice only you can make. We want to talk to you and not
about you so please consider always being safe.
In friendship, Don and Judy Coons
GWTA, NRED
TAKE PRIDE
IN YOUR RIDE . . .
Quality Parts and Accessories
for your 1975 to 2009 Wing
Dear Bruce & Jennifer;
First, thanks for the great time that we had in Lexington, Kentucky at Gold Rush XXII.
As always, it was a great time and three quarters of our family really enjoyed it. As for
the other one quarter of the family, well she would have enjoyed it had she been able to
attend.
Anyway, we are honored to have served as the 2008-2009 Family of the Year for GWTA.
We were very surprised to hear from Jennifer a while back that the title of FOY came with
a comp room for Gold Rush. For our family, this was great news however the lack of
lodging or funds for lodging would not have stopped us from coming to Gold Rush. In
light of the economic times, our family, who does have the financial means of attending
Gold Rush, does not feel right about having a fully paid room given to us. I know the
association works with a tight budget. I know many others who are working with tight
budgets too. For the record, Chris and I are each taking six unpaid days off this summer
between June and October. However, we still feel it is in the best interest of the association
and the membership to make a donation to offset a portion of the room. Therefore, please
find attached a check for $200.00 as a room donation.
Thanks for all you do to keep GWTA the great motorcycle association that it is.
Rear Trike Accessories
Trike Apparel
Sincerely,
Eric Larson
We would like to send out a big THANK YOU to everyone in GWTA for thinking of
us and helping out after Jay’s accident en route to Gold Rush. We appreciate all of the get
well cards and visits from our friends. We would especially like to thank Don & Kathy
Thomason, Helping Hands, and Don & Kim Douthit for assisting with the bike and getting
everyone together. We cannot thank everyone enough and are truly grateful for all of our
GWTA friends.
Sincerely,
Jay & Sherry Lininger, Iowa Chapter J
LED Multi-Colored Multi-Function Light Kit
®
For a free catalog, free gift
and the name of your nearest dealer
Call 1-800-821-9861
Web www.addonaccessories.net
Email [email protected]
GWTA
29
1963
HONDA TECH COLUMNIST
Randy Rundle
American Honda, now with approximately 800 motorcycle
dealers around the country, moves its corporate headquarters from
Pico Boulevard to new offices in Gardena, California. Honda not
only has to establish itself in the U.S. motorcycle market, it has to
overcome the negative stereotype of motorcyclists.
415 Court Street
Clay Center, KS 67435
(785) 632-3450
Fax: (785) 632-6154
[email protected]
American Honda 50th Anniversary Timeline
06/04/2009 -Torrance, Calif. - 1959
1968
On June 11, American Honda Motor Co, Inc. is incorporated
as the first overseas subsidiary of Honda Motor Co., Ltd., just
eleven years after the company’s inception as a small motorcycle
manufacturer in Japan. A handful of associates led by 39-year-old
Kihachiro Kawashima begin signing up U.S. motorcycle dealers,
working out of a small storefront office at 4077 Pico Boulevard in
Los Angeles, California. The Honda 50 (Super
Cub), Dream and Benly motorcycles are the
first Honda products sold in the U.S. First-year
sales amounted to just over 1,700 units.
1962
Honda begins selling power equipment
products in the U.S. Its first product is the
F-190 tiller followed by the E-300 and
E-40 portable generators in 1964. American
Honda launches the memorable 12-year ad
campaign, “You meet the nicest people on
a Honda” to create a new image of fun and
friendly motorcycling with U.S. consumers.
Advertisements appeared on billboards
and in many of America’s most prestigious
magazines of the day, and, in 1965, the
company aired two 90-second commercials
during the Academy Awards.
GWTA
American Honda sells its one-millionth motorcycle in the U.S.
1969
American Honda sells a handful of its first automobile, the
diminutive N600 sedan, in Hawaii in 1969 followed by the start of
sales in the continental U.S. in 1970. The
N600 carries a manufacturer’s suggested
retail price (MSRP) of $1,275
Honda begins market research and
new model development activities in
America with the establishment of Honda
Research California (later Honda R&D
Americas, Inc.) in the company’s Gardena,
California, headquarters.
Honda introduces the GL1100 “Gold
Wing” igniting U.S. motorcycle riders
passion for long-distance cruising
1977
Honda announces plan to produce products
in America, starting with motorcycles, but
with a plan to add automobiles in the future.
Honda of America Mfg., Inc. is formally
established in February 1978.
30
1979
On September 10, Honda of America Mfg. begins production
of the Honda CR250M Elsinore motorcycle at the Marysville
Motorcycle Plant in Marysville, Ohio, making Honda the first
Japanese automaker to produce products of any kind in America.
Within days of the start of motorcycle production, Honda decides
to go ahead with plans for a new automobile factory in Ohio.
1980
Honda breaks ground on a new $250 million auto plant in
Marysville, Ohio.
1984
On August 6, Honda Power Equipment Mfg., Inc., begins
assembling Honda lawnmowers at a new plant in Swepsonville,
NC. The plant steadily expands its capacity to more than 340,000
lawnmowers and 2 million general-purpose engines annually.
1985
On July 22, the Anna Engine Plant (AEP) in Anna, Ohio,
begins production of Gold Wing engines. AEP would build its
first automobile engine in September 1986 and goes on to become
Honda’s highest volume engine plant in the world with an annual
production capacity of 1.2 million units (in 2008).
1989
Honda company co-founder, Soichiro Honda, becomes the first
leader of a Japanese automaker inducted into the U.S. Automotive
Hall of Fame.
1998
Honda of South Carolina Mfg, Inc. opens a new 330,000-squarefoot plant for the production of Honda Four Trax all-terrain vehicles
(ATVs). The company would add a second plant for production of
Honda AquaTrax personal watercraft in 2002.
2003
American Honda cumulative product sales, including automobiles,
powersports and power equipment products, surpass the 50-millionunit mark, including more than 20-million automobiles.
2007
Honda introduces the world’s first production motorcycle with
an available rider airbag system, on the 2008 Honda Gold Wing.
GWTA
31
Everyone is invited to take part in RaveNRide 2009! The following tours are currently available: “Region A Tour 1” and
“Region A Tour 2”. Simply request a tour card from the Region A director. Participants have from April 1, 2009 through
October 31, 2009 to visit each business or chapter listed on the card. A sticker will be placed at each location visited and
once the card is completed, turn it in to the National Office for a chance to win a $1,000 prize which will be awarded in
December 2009! It’s that simple. More info on each location is available at www.gwta.org or www.ravenride.com.
Region A Tour #1
Chet’s Honda
17 H St. SW, Quincy, WA 98848
509-787-3617; www.chetshondapolaris.com
Empire Cycle & Powersports
7807, E. Sprague Ave., Spokane Valley, WA 99212
509-892-6368
GWTA Washington Chapter E
Lake Washington Gold meets at Denny’s:
2233 148th Ave. NE, Bellevue, WA 98007
253-631-1710; www.lakewashingtongold.com
GWTA Washington Chapter V
Auburn Valley Wings meets at Trotter’s Restaurant:
825 Harvey Road, Auburn, WA 98002
253-208-9867; www.auburnvalleywings.org
Hinshaw’s Motorcycle Store
1611 West Valley Hwy So., Auburn, WA 98001
253-939-7164; www.hinshawsmotorcyclestore.com
Onthree Trike Conversions
1725 - 268th Ave. N.E., Redmond, WA 98053
425-836-0373; www.onthreetrikes.com
Renton Motorcycle Mall
3701 East Valley Rd., Renton, WA 98057
425-226-4320; www.rentonmotorcycles.com
GWTA
Road House Cycles
1640 E. Schnidmiller Ave., Post Falls, ID 83854
208-457-1150; www.rdhse.com
32
Region A Tour #2
Everett Powersports
215 SW Everett Mall Way, Everett, WA 98204
425-347-4545; www.everettpowersports.com
Gerry Andal’s
27021 - 102nd Ave. NW, Stanwood, WA 98292
360-629-6569; www.gerryandal.com
GWTA Washington Chapter C
Evergreen Wings meets at Everett Eagles:
1216 Broadway, Everett, WA 98201
253-538-4915; www.evergreenwings.org
GWTA Washington Chapter S
Skagit Valley Wings meets at Cranberry Tree Restaurant:
2030 Freeway Drive, Mt. Vernon, WA
360-630-1780; www.skagitvalleywings.netfirms.com
Lifestyles Honda
3302 Cedardale Rd., Mt. Vernon, WA 98274
360-416-3950; www.lifestyleshonda.com
Timber Creek Grill Buffet
9211 E. Montgomery Ave., Spokane Valley, WA 99206
509-892-6390
Westside Motorsports
4201 S. Grove Road, Spokane, WA 99224
509-747-1862; www.westsideracing.com
Wingman Enterprises
5663 - A N.E. 105th Ave., Portland, OR 97220
503-257-4141; www.wingman.com
If you are interested in having a RaveNRide tour in your region, contact your region
director to find out how you can help set one up !
GWTA
33
Spirit of Friendship Wings, NE-G, Know How To Grow
Membership growth is critical to the success of the Gold Wing
Touring Association (GWTA). The Spirit of Friendship Wings,
Chapter G of Nebraska, Region C, have consistently had the best
growth of all the Chapters in the GWTA. For the 11-month period
of July, 2008, until June, 2009, they have grown by 18 members –
the best in our entire organization.
In order to explore what this phenomenal Chapter does to get this
kind of success, Touring News interviewed their Chapter Director,
Bill Pierce.
Touring News: Bill, please tell us about the Spirit of Friendship
Wings, and how you’ve grown like you have in the past
11 months.
Bill Pierce: Our Chapter is a great group of people who get together
to ride and have fun. As far as our growth goes, it’s nothing
complicated. We like to meet people who ride, and invite
them to join us. For example, when I’m at our local Honda
dealer I leave my Chapter business card on the saddle of
bikes I see there. Many of them call me. I tell them we
have dinner rides on Tuesday nights and some planned
weekend rides. If that sounds good, we’d love to have
you join us. I know it works not just for me, but for other
Chapter members too. One of our members recently saw
a guy with a motorcycle shirt on, started talking to him,
asked if he belonged to a riding group (which he didn’t),
and invited him to go ride with us. He joined our chapter.
It was that simple.
TN: Do you have any particular Recruiting Program that you
use?
BP: Well, no, not really. Just individual members talking to
people we see. Just last week I was at the grocery store.
When I came out to the parking lot, a couple road up on
a Goldwing. I struck up a conversation and asked them
if they ride with a group, and they said, “We’ve thought
GWTA
about it because we get tired of riding alone”. I gave them
my GWTA card, got his business card and e-mailed them
copies of our newsletter and ride schedule
It’s mostly word of mouth, but we have inherited GWTA
members who transferred to our Chapter because of
timing – they liked our meeting night better than their
other Chapter, or discovered that we might be closer after
a move, or they rode with us and thought we were a better
fit for them. But, mainly, we grow by word of mouth.
TN: What is the best thing you do to attract and keep
members?
BP: I think the thing that keeps members is getting them
involved soon. I, myself, am a good example. I joined the
Spirit of Friendship Wings in February, and was elected CD
in July. <Laughs> We recently put on our first big event
as a Chapter – a Lime Run – and about 75% of our whole
Chapter of 60+ members were involved in some way. We
all had a great time! I think everybody likes to be asked
to help do something. Then they feel closer to the other
members and a bigger part of the Chapter. Getting folks
active as soon as possible has been very good for us.
TN: What happens if I join Spirit of Friendship Wings? How
do you integrate new members?
BP: As soon as someone joins, we get their contact information,
and send them our latest newsletter and ride schedule. We
also introduce them to our other members, to make sure
they feel like a welcome addition to our Chapter. We make
a special effort to invite new members to go on our planned
and informal rides. We also encourage them to come to
the monthly meeting because it is their chapter and their
views are important. We tried doing a written survey of our
member’s interests but only got three replies. So having
their input at meetings is needed.
34
TN: Do you have any Special Events that Spirit of Friendship
Wings put on?
BP: We recently put on what we called a “Lime Run” Fun Run.
This was the first time we’ve done something like this
in a long time. It was something new. We wanted to do
something different. Believe me, we had some questions
about doing it. “What if nobody shows up?” “What if too
many people show up?” “How will we know how much
food we’ll need?” It was one of our newer members who
came up with the idea of working with a fellow called “The
Pancake Man”. This approach had not been used by any
other chapters in the area. It eliminated our concern about
having the right amount of food. He knew what he was
doing, was entertaining, and supplied everything. We sold
tickets for breakfast to people not going on the run and
tickets with breakfast and the run. He kept track of how
many meals he served and we paid him for them. We had
very little risk with maximum flexibility. It worked out
great! We had about 100 people, and raised about $500
for our charities.
TN: How do you communicate with your members?
BP: We have a newsletter that is e-mailed to the members and it
is put on the Nebraska GWTA web site. Of course, we do
have a small number without email, and I send it to them.
So email is our primary means, but we also do some phone
calls for our informal rides.
TN: What advice would you have for a new or small Chapter
just getting started?
GWTA
BP: That’s a challenge. You need people who are willing to
really get involved, and are committed to the program.
Folks who love riding, and aren’t afraid to expend some
energy to make things happen and be willing to reach out
to others to invite them to ride with you. I remember the
first week I bought my bike. There I am in a parking lot,
and up rides Dave Willenborg. He says, “That’s Eldon
Ogorzolka’s bike”, and I said, “No it’s not! I just bought
it, so it’s mine!” We talked for a few minutes, and he asked
if I ride with any group. After I said I didn’t, he invited
me to join the Spirit of Friendship Wings. It wasn’t long
before I’m having a blast and enjoying everything we’re
doing. When we’re having fun, it’s easy to want to share
it. A new Chapter really needs to find some folks willing
to put themselves out there like Dave did when he rode up
and talked to me. It takes some passion about GWTA.
TN: Is there anything about our GWTA program you wish was
different?
BP: You know, I can’t really think of anything. We have so
much fun as a Chapter, I don’t really bother with much
else. Almost everyone I’ve ever met from GWTA have
just been great folks to know and ride with. I can’t make
it to as many events as I’d like to, but what I have done,
I’ve enjoyed. It’s always great to meet and ride with
people who love to have fun like the folks in GWTA. In
my opinion, the program sells itself, and all I have to do
is invite people to go riding with us, and they do. They
join the GWTA family!
35
Very few riders
who’ve worn one of these
can ever be as happy in anything else.
And all the reasons why are here:
www.AraiAmericas.com
NEW Corsair -5
Arai’s advanced state-of-the-art
helmet, with a host of rider-relevant
features and innovations.
Shown: Aluminum Silver color
GWTA
For a copy of Arai’s new 32-page color catalog plus an Arai sticker pak, please send $4.00 in cash or stamps
($5.00 U.S. Currency if outside the U.S.) to Arai Americas, Inc., Dept. AD09VRY, P.O. Box 9435, Daytona, FL 32120.
Specifications subject to change without notice. ©2009 Arai Helmets.
Arai is the Official Helmet Sponsor of WomenRidersNow.com. The Official Helmet of the Daytona 200.
36

GWTA 1 September 2009 Touring News

Transcription

Similar documents

here.

BEER Wine Whiskey

Silverliner V

Honda CB450 Restoration

Live Lakini`s Juice

gold wing road riders accociation

BackRoads Magazine

win a trip for 4 to st croix!

MSF Group Riding Guide

Gold Wing