Rocco & Don's Excellent Adventure

On a lighter note of the happenings on Wednesday, I got to meet a lot of new great people. Some faces I have seen before, but never met. Aside from June, Debbie, and a few others that went to the meeting that I already know, I met Rocco and Don, fellow sidecar owner/riders and bloggers...right in my own backyard.

Rocco and Don take the HDw/SC (Harley-Davidson with Sidecar) out for "adventures" and, they too, have a blog to share their stories. I had a feeling that when I met them and talked with them about our sidecar rides, that these two could be a lot of fun. When I read the beer blog, it confirmed my first impressions of them. I had a good smile and laugh when reading about their beer fest ride and the pictures are hilarious.


There is a sidecar rally this Sunday up at Griffith Park in Los Angeles and I am hoping I can make it. Rocco sent some great pics of my URAL that he took that day and I thank you two for sending them to me!

So go on over and read a little of the Rocco and Don's Excellent Adventure blog. I am looking forward to meeting up with them in the future and sharing ride stories from different angles.

Thumbs up to meeting you two adventurous dudes!

Happy SideCar Rally Trailzzzzz
KT Did

Video Update On 9/11 Laguna Woods City Council

Click this line for the article link.

9/11 MEMORIAL RIDE IN JEOPARDY

As all you know that read this blog, I have been on the 9/11 Memorial Ride which starts from Cooks Corners and goes into Long Beach to Gary Biggerstaff's home where he has a memorial and has, in the past had NYFD representatives and the Mayor of Long Beach make speaches and share the loss of the people who were murdered on 9/11.

I know this is long but it has now come to many riders' attention, that there is a one woman rampage against the ride. Her name is Leslie Keane, City Manager of the City of Laguna Woods, CA. She will get you heated up here, as she actually believes she has authority and power to dictate whether or not next year's ride will go through that City. Read and be amazed at her statments.

Here are the e-mails that have been passed around and posted already on the net.

From Gary:
To all those who ride with me on 9-11 I would like to invite you to the Laguna Woods City Council meeting Wednesday at 2pm. Lesie Keane the City Manager of Laguna Woods has decide to reposes your first amendment rights. She has vowed to prohibit the ride from passing through her city next year. I will let her own words speak for her you can form your own opinion.

Last week on Oct. 7 I was contacted by the O.C. Sheriff who had launched a investigation into the 9-11 ride at the incessant urging of Leslie Keane. She has been screaming mad for the last month at the fact that one of the 9-11 riders held her street light for the bikes to clear the intersection at Moulton and El Toro. That light is monitored by a red light camera. Oddly enough the camera images were blurry thanks to the handy work of a patriotic bird (probably a bald eagle) clouding the lens. Not one single license plate number could be recovered and NO tickets will be issued. Ms. Keane is infuriated and wants to know the name of the rider who held her light. Since I have no idea who that was she has launched a smear campaign against me and the entire 9-11 event in an effort to prevent it next year. Below you can read our email correspondence.

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From: gary@remember911ride.com
Sent: Wednesday, October 07, 2009 7:39 PM
To: lkeane@lagunawoodscity.org
Subject: September 11 Memorial Ride

Ms. Keane,
Hello my name is Gary Biggerstaff I am contacting you in hopes of arranging a meeting so we can chat and clear the air on what went on in Laguna Woods on 9-11. I would like to sincerely apologize for in inconvenience this has caused you or your staff. I think perhaps there are some misconceptions that need to be addressed. I would be happy to come meet with you in an effort to educate you on my actions and intentions. I also welcome the opportunity to become informed on what effect my patriotic event has had on you and your community.

Cheers, Gary


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--- On Wed, 10/7/09, Leslie Keane wrote:

From: Leslie Keane
Subject: re: September 11 Memorial Ride
To: gary@remember911ride.com
Date: Wednesday, October 7, 2009, 7:51 PM

I am not opposed to sitting down and discussing the situation with you, but please be advised that my city stands actively ready to prosecute the individual who impersonated a police officer and committed a felony in our city on September 11, 2009. We will also seek to issue red light violations to those motorcycles that were captured on our red light camera running the red light. And, your 9-11 group will not be allowed to ride through our city under any circumstance next year. This was not an "inconvenience" - it was your organization blatantly braking the law. You apparently condone that or think there is some excuse for that? , I don't and I am prepared to go to the press if I need to do that to get a prosecution. I wonder how your city council will feel about that.

Leslie Keane
City Manager
City of Laguna Woods

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From: gary@remember911ride.com
Sent: Wednesday, October 07, 2009 8:30 PM
To: lkeane@lagunawoodscity.org
Subject: September 11 Memorial Ride

Ms. Keane,
I appreciate your quick response. It's clear by the content of your correspondence, that as I feared there are some serious misconceptions. Rather than exchange dozens of emails on the issues I feel it would be best if you could make time for me to come see you. I have been in touch with OCSD investigators and will assist them any way I can. I neither condoned or endorsed the behavior you referred to and would greatly appreciate an opportunity to tell my side of the story as well as hear yours.

Sincerely, Gary

Gary Biggerstaff
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--- On Wed, 10/7/09, Leslie Keane

From: Leslie Keane
Subject: re: September 11 Memorial Ride
To: gary@remember911ride.com
Date: Wednesday, October 7, 2009, 8:52 PM wrote:

I am happy to meet with you, but I want the name of the person who did impersonated a police officer in my city at that meeting. Right now you are the only name I have to give to the district attorney and the press. Please believe me I will push this much further and harder that OCSD will. I was married for many years to a police chief and I understand "professional courtesy" and I do NOT condone it...neither does our City Council. Your organization's irresponsible behavior has put our entire red light camera program at risk, I have extremely angry residents that have been ticketed and then watched your organization break the law. Not only is there no way to explain that, but I am not inclined to do so. As far as I am concerned your ride through our City dishonored the public safety employees who tried to uphold the law at the risk of their own safety on 9-11. You cheapened their sacrifice and made a mockery of it.

I am in and out during the next week. You can call our administrative coordinator - Roz Fox at 949-639-0512 - and she will have my schedule.

Leslie Keane
City Manager

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I did set a meeting on Oct. 11th and went to it along with Rich Brandt President of the Long Beach Firefighters Union and perpetual 9-11 rider. Rich and I were greeted by a very angry Ms. Keane who did not wish to shake our hand or even introduce herself. She sat down and demanded I start talking and she wanted that name. I did not have it and proceeded to tell her about the ride and the challenges of managing such a large group when we receive inconsistent police escorts along the way. She stopped me quickly and said she did not care about the ride and just wanted that name. When I was unable to provide it she promptly proclaimed the 3 minute meeting to be over and told me "that under no circumstance would I or any other motorcycles be allowed to ride through Laguna Woods next year" Rich of course did not like the sound of that and asked her to repeat what she said. She did and made it clear that her streets were not an option. "Find a way around but under no circumstance would she allow us to come through." She then threatened me that she was going to take this to the press and bury me. She proclaimed us all to be irresponsible thugs. Again she shouted that the meeting was over and threatened to call the Sheriff and have us cited for trespassing if we did not leave. Rich told her she was un-American. Again she threatened to call the sheriff to have us forcibly removed. Later that evening I received the following email from Ms. Keane.

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--- On Mon, 10/12/09, Leslie Keane wrote:

From: Leslie Keane
Subject: Please Read This
To: gary@remember911ride.com
Date: Monday, October 12, 2009, 7:53 PM

Mr. Biggerstaff:

It would behoove you to find out something about the people you are dealing with...

I told you my ex-husband was a long time police officer. I have worked in local government since 1971 and I have managed other cities, some of which had their own police and fire departments. I have enjoyed a reputation as a good friend public safety in my career, because I value the vast majority of the individuals in those professions who commit their lives to the betterment of others.
In the City of Laguna Woods, this year on September 11th - as they have every other year since 2001 - people in their 70s, 80s and 90s walked nearly a mile carrying flags and banners in honor of those who gave their lives protecting others on that infamous day. The average age of our residents is 78 many lost frineds to war and terrorism. Following the walk, the City held a moving ceremony at our city hall. I have been honored and humbled to have the City actively organize and support our 9-11 event and will continue to do so.

So why am I so upset? Your group broke the law - blatantly broke the law. One of your riders impersonated a police officer and directed hundred of motorcycle riders to also break the law as they ran the red light at the Moulton/El Toro intersection. Yes, you may not be the person who impersonated the police officer and you may have told participants they should obey the law, but you organized the event and ultimately - whether you like it or not - that makes you responsible. There was certainly no apology from you today or in any of your previous emails for what happened. Instead, you and your partner have continued to try your group's action and to portray yourselves as above the law because your have a higher calling - people you know and cared about died on 9-11. I think those are your partner's exact words. Lots of us have people we loved who died or suffered on that day...and on days before and since..for the country we live in. Think carefully about what all fringe groups who break the law, including the one that caused the tragic and infamous 9-11 event, say to justify their actions...they have a higher calling...their friends and comrades have died trying to do protect their ideals and values. And before you call me un-American for linking you with the terrorists. Think about what you did and what you are now saying to justifying it.

Does your belief structure give you the right to break the law and put the lives of innocent people at risk. Because, that is what your riders did. The average age of the drivers at their intersection when you barreled through was in the 70s. Some of them are sharper than people half their age, but many are confused and poor drivers. We have red-light cameras in our city because we have had tragic accidents at that intersection. When an ambulance transporting an already critical individual was hit by a car running a red light, the City Council decided it needed to take action. Your group's actions on September 11, 2009 put every red-light ticket we have and will issue at risk. I have already received calls from people claiming discrimination - they watched you ignore the law and if we don't issue tickets, they will go to court and put our entire program at risk. Today, your partner told me he didn't care about that and that I was un-American because I would not risk the lives of the residents in my city next year.

I don't doubt that you were motivated to put the ride together for all the right reasons and that you did not plan what happened...but it did happen and I don't want it to happen again. You have shown that you cannot guarantee that. If you truly care about the spirit of the ride and you believe that you are not above the law, give us the name of the individual who broke the law in our city. If you don't how could I possibly believe that next year will be any different or worse.

Finally, six people in my office heard your partner verbally assault me; several thought he was actually going to hit me and I believe they will communicate their concern about that to our City Council. I have called the new OCFA Fire Chief and asked if he wants his department's name listed in our press release as condoning your group and your partner's behavior - his staff apologized for your actions and said I will have a statement from the Chief tomorrow. I will issue a press release and since your name is the only name I have - that is the name I will use. I will also send a letter to the Long Beach Mayor and and City Council. Is that really what you want? Give me a name and find a route around us next year. We will continue to honor those who upheld the law and were injured or lost their lives on 9-11 in a lawful manner, but we will not condone those break the law no matter what ideals they quote.

Leslie Keane
City Manager
City of Laguna Woods

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Ms. Keane has inappropriately contacted the following people and agencies to bad mouth me and the ride in an effort to slander me and have other communities join her in her stance against the 9-11 ride returning next year.
OCFA Fire Chief
OC Sheriff
Newport Beach City Manager
Newport Beach Fire Chief
Long Beach City Manager
Long Beach Mayor
Long Beach Fire Chief
O.C. Register
This list is one that only shows those that I have personally heard from and they have relayed Ms. Keane's inaccurate and damming testimony of what the 9-11 ride is and who I am.
She likely contacted many others who are vital to the success and unilateral participation of five law enforcement agencies and five fire departments. I have worked tireless to establish relationships to ensure we are welcome. Now the success and participation of the entire ride is at risk due to her disruptive behavior and reckless opinions. I responded to her with the following email.

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From: gary@remember911ride.com
Sent: Wednesday, October 13, 2009 3:30 PM
To: lkeane@lagunawoodscity.org
Subject: September 11 Memorial Ride


Ms. Keane,


I don't really need your patriotic resume. I think your actions, hostile attitude, and e-mails paint a pretty clear picture of the type of person you are. You have certainly made a lasting impression on me. It's often said in football that the quarterback is the face of the organization. As the City Manager of Laguna Woods, you to are the face and voice of your city. If the sort of abrasive behavior you exhibit, along with a complete lack of professionalism, is what the voters and the community are proud of in Laguna Woods, then I really have no desire to return to your city.

In response to whether I offered an apology for what happened in Laguna Woods on 9-11, I most certainly did. I offered one in my first e-mail to you. Perhaps you should revisit that document. It's not difficult to find, it's the part that says "I apologize for any inconvenience this has caused you or your staff." It was meant to be a heartfelt and simple ice breaker - one that would open a professional and amicable dialogue. It was my wish to meet with you dispel untruths about the 9-11 ride. I hoped I could pull back the curtains on your clouded view and offer you the facts. Being that you are the City Manager, I trust that you must have exposed at least some of the facts; like the simple one that I never ran a red light in Laguna Woods or any other city over the 40 mile long ride. I'm convinced you would not be so big a fool as to not have viewed the video tape from your own red light that shows myself and hundreds of other law-abiding patriots stopping for your red light and observing all other traffic laws.


See, there were hundreds of well behaved flag wavers there to honor 9-11. Most of us peacefully and respectfully rode through without incident, I guess you missed that part. Perhaps your own greed blinded you. I contacted the OCSD by e-mail a month in advance and told them we were coming. Informed them exactly what time we would arrive in Laguna Woods. I even asked for their assistance in ensuring that riders behind me respect traffic laws. I'm sure you got a copy of that e-mail. I know you at least discussed it with your local Laguna Woods OC Sheriff's Officer. You know the one, the officer you ordered to stay away from the ride and the El Toro intersection on 9-11. See, this whole thing could have been avoided if just one sheriff's car would have staged at the intersection for 10 minutes. The presence of that car would have prevented any renegade rider from holding the intersection. It seemed like a simple solution to me, and one that was in the best interest of public safety. However, it seems you had other motivations.


Some have suggested to me that you had intended on issuing hundreds of tickets and turning the memorial tribute into some sort of windfall for your city coffers. Despite the fact that you come across as a calloused, bitter, and incompetent leader I have my doubts that even you would stoop that low. I'm not sure why I assume you would take the moral high ground; after all, so many people that go into politics have a long standing reputation. I guess I naively still have faith in humanity and common decency. I appreciate you helping me to see the undeniable ugly reality.

You suggested in your e-mail that I called you un-American. That simply is not true. I never said it or implied it. I would never use the word American to describe you. You're safe there.

Unfortunately I never had much chance to say anything to you. After 3 minutes in your office you kicked me out and subsequently threatened to call the Sheriff and have me forcibly removed when I tried to simply provide you with the facts as they relate to the 9-11 ride.


Over 600 riders participate in my ride from all walks of life. Firefighters, Police Officers, Active Military, War Veterans, Doctors, Lawyers, Trash Men, Maids and all occupations in between. These people, who ride for honor, respect, and freedom, are some of the finest people I've ever met. I guess you and I are divided by a social (or dare I say socialistic) class structure since you and I have a vastly different views. As you so eloquently put it, "this group of irresponsible lawbreakers dishonored the public safety employees who died on 9-11." It's also clear that you believe my band of thugs and I "cheapened their sacrifice and made a mockery of it." I hope you don't mind me quoting you. You said it with such conviction it really moved me. I hope the $3000 that we raised that day for the families of the two LA County Firefighters recently killed in the line of duty didn't seem cheapened by the fact that it came from such an irresponsible group. I don't believe those women and children, left without their fathers and husbands, feel as though we were mocking their loss.


You mentioned that I offered no apology while in your office. Do you really feel like I had the chance to do that in the three minutes you allowed me? I actually had a lot of things to say to you. Unfortunately, you never gave me the opportunity to communicate them. I'm sure your closed-mindedness serves you well in your occupation. I, on the other hand enjoy a more civil discussion.

This 9-11 tribute ride I organize is free of charge and has no registration. I spend my own time every year to erect a homemade memorial and organizing many logistics. There is no advertising - just word of mouth, and thousands of people come out to peacefully honor the day. For you to assume that I know each and every person who attends seems a little silly. For you to expect I have the ability to see backwards well enough to identify the single individual who held your light a mile behind me without my knowledge is absurd. I am not happy about the actions of this person for compromising the safety of the other riders and drivers. I have attempted to communicate that with you. It was just one of those things that was out of my control, which is exactly why I always alert each city and request for assistance. Then work together with each agency to achieve a mutually satisfactory outcome. It's not the fault of the 100 riders that followed the directions of a guy holding the light. What were they to think? After all - as you put it, he was impersonating a police officer. A bit of a ridiculous notion, but lets assume you're right about something.

You have made your point over and over - that I am responsible for this single person's rebellious actions. I suppose you accept responsibility yourself for the actions words and misdeeds of all your residents as well. I am amazed and astonished that you are able to so tightly control so many people. It speaks volumes about your dictatorship skills. As the responsible party I will gladly return to your office to turn myself in for prosecution. You can slap the cuffs on me yourself and have your friends from the press there to get one of those neat little photo opportunities that you politicians love so much. Just give me a time; when you get it all arranged, I will be there.

You missed my partner's name, perhaps because you failed to introduce yourself when we met face to face. You could not even muster up a handshake, reminiscent of kings and queens of times past. I guess your appointment to city manager excludes you from such gallantry. Well Your Grace, it 'twas an honor to be in the presence of such royalty if only for three minutes. However, since you missed the opportunity, I will introduce to you the other attendee at our meeting. Rich Brandt is a 21 year veteran of the Fire Service. He previously served as a fireman for FDNY. He is also the president of The International Association of Firefighters Local #372. He rode right next to me that day as he has every year. We lead the ride and stop for all lights along they way. So your intersection is not all that special for us. I brought him to corroborate my story. Unfortunately, you promised to deny him his first amendment rights, not once but twice, when you assured us that you would not allow us under any circumstance to ride through Laguna Woods again. Understandably this incensed him, he got a little excited. Do not mistake his passion at being offended by you as anything more than that.

See, Rich is the kind of red-blooded American that takes his rights seriously. He was under the impression that Laguna Woods was within the borders of the United States and therefore subject to abide by laws and honor the rights of all citizens. I can only deduce that you and your city has seceded from the union. After all, you have indicated, both in writing and in person, that we will not be allowed to exercise our first amendment rights in your city on public streets. I'm unclear how you will enforce this. May I suggest a brick wall? If you intend to build one I have a stone from the Berlin Wall which you can ceremoniously place down as the first brick in your blockade. I have to wonder - will I need a passport if I return to your city? Please let me know.

As far as you feeling threatened in your office. The only thing Mr. Brandt threatened you with was that he would exercise his rights. He also promised to return and attend your council meeting in an effort to expose you to those that employ you and entrust you. If I was you and acted like you and spoke like you and sent out the type of emails you do, I would be very concerned about your job longevity. That decision will be in the hands of those you serve - Oops! - those that serve you, my Grace.

Never once did I make any attempt to justify, downplay, excuse, or endorse the actions of the single mutineer rider who dismounted and took it upon himself to control traffic at El Toro and Moulton. Clearly that is the job of the Sheriff in Laguna Woods. Any dullard can see that. Perhaps if you had not interfered, and had allowed the Sheriff to do his job, you and I would have never had the unique privilege of knowing one another. I, for one, would be happier, and everyone who encountered that light would have been safer. Some would say you had a responsibility to ensure a safe traffic flow knowing 600 riders were coming. That's not for me to decide but it appears to me that you put your own citizens safety in jeopardy by ordering the sheriff to abandon his obligation to uphold the law.

The notion by you, that I somehow portrayed myself as being above the law is a preposterous falsification. I'm at a loss as to how to defend myself. I never said it. I never implied it. I never even thought it. It does however speak volumes about your unfounded, unreliable accounts.

You have threatened me twice with going to the press in an apparent effort to bring shame to me and my family for organizing this patriotic homage. Please know that I will do nothing to stop you from that saintly ambition. I wish you well in your slanderous depiction of me in the papers. If you require any other information please don't hesitate to ask (I cheated on a spelling test in the 4th grade too, just in case you need some more ammunition for my character assassination).

Now the part in your email to me where you compare me to the 9-11 terrorist who killed 2966 innocent Americans - now that was a doosy! I have to give it to you. I did not see that one coming. Such an accusation is so outrageous, that it does not even warrant a response. You are a special lady with a rare talent. I sense you may have established an idiosyncratic solidarity in that opinion of me.

Since you have already very unethically (and probably illegally) contacted my employer (the Long Beach City Manager), I suppose your next pledged move of calling the Mayor and Fire Chief would not be any further out of bounds for you. If you want to speak to them face to face, I would invite you attend my 9/11 Memorial event, where the Mayor of Long Beach is regularly an honored speaker and attendee. Then again, you seem to feel right at home ruling your kingdom with a heavy-handed, unconscionable temper; but if you need, I can provide you with their respective contact information. I hope for your sake that your actions here have not put you or your community at risk for litigation. I am concerned you may have opened a very expensive legal can of worms by your behavior.

The fact that you have already contacted the Fire Chief of the OCFA and besmirched my name in effort to defame and degenerate my reputation is completely out of line. As a public figure, for you to conduct yourself with such disregard for procedure and ethical deportment, you have perilously jeopardized your city. Your inappropriate maneuvering has exposed Laguna Woods to potential litigation.

Furthermore, At your own incessant urging this matter has been elevated to official criminal investigation by OCSD. I have given the OC Sheriff my complete cooperation into the investigation of this incident. I have gone as far as to provide them with a list of known riders who also may be able to assist. I have to wonder if you Ms. Keane are now impersonating a police officer by inserting yourself into the investigation and attempting to extort me for information regarding this official case. If you have not been officially deputized then I am curious as to the legality of your investigative proceedings. It feels like blackmail to me. Is that legal in Laguna Woods? Now that you have repossessed my first amendment rights I'm unclear what rights I have left.

Your continuous threats and pressure on me, about going to the press and my employer in an effort to smear and discredit me is causing me great stress and starting to effect my work and home life. I would like you to stop holding this over me and attempting to use your Position as the City Manager of Laguna Woods as leverage. Please stop abusing your power and authority for the ransom of information I do not have. I am losing sleep because your repeated unfounded allegations. I have no choice but to severe communications with you in regards to the sheriffs investigation. Henceforward I will continue all future correspondence on further matters regarding this case with the official sheriff's investigator.

It is obvious at this point that you are extremely motivated to expose me, my family to the press in this case. In the event you did not save your own emails that you sent me, I will forward them to the press myself in an effort to assist you in your insatiable manhunt. I sincerely hope this proves convenient and accommodating to your legal aspirations. Though I do not fancy the idea of my own public lynching by you, I will do my duty and share all that I know in regards to you and the 9-11 ride.

In conclusion, your continued harassment of me will likely expose you and your community to legal and financial harm. Your ordering of the sheriff to neglect their duties to control traffic in Laguna Woods was irresponsible at best. You put your citizens at an unnecessary safety risk when you knew there was a potential for an unsafe environment. Your continued self insertion into the investigation regarding 9-11 will result in me reporting all activity the OCSD. If you continue to intimidate and provoke me by inappropriately contacting my employer, I will be be forced to file an official personal complaint with your city. I will also seek the representation and the assistance of a lawyer to protect myself and my family from your persistent malicious gossip should it continue.

It was nice to have finally met you.

Gary


Gary Biggerstaff

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--- On Wed, 10/14/09, Leslie Keane wrote:

From: Leslie Keane
Subject: RE: Please Read This
To: gary@remember911ride.com
Date: Wednesday, October 14, 2009, 11:31 AM

I have already contacted your Fire Department and your mayor. We have not made any other decisions about how we will proceed at this point in regards to the press.

I am not going to stoop to calling you names and sending you ugly, nasty emails. I am sorry you feel the need to do so.


Your partner did call me un-American – there are many witnesses to that.


I did not say you ran the red-light – but hundred of bikes that followed you did.


Our police services chief asked if we required you to obtain a parade permit and we simply said we would not do that. Mr. Biggerstaff, we have only one police car in our city and I do not dispatch it. Our police services chief said it was not necessary at the intersection for this event. I did not receive copies of any of your emails to him.


I am confident that you will do whatever you feel is honorable and just, as will I.


Leslie

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After repeated efforts to try to get a hold of the email addresses to the Laguna Woods City Attorney and the Mayor to no avail. Denied by Ms. Keane, I plan on attending the Wednesday City Council to expose Ms. Keane to her own city government and demand she writes an apology to all that she has contacted and spread malicious gossip. As well as a public apology issued in the paper. If I can fill the room with fellow riders and patriotic Americans who would like to stand up to this bully it would send her a clear message. If you can't make it please contact Ms. Keane and share your opinions.

Fraternally, Gary


Well now... this meeting is just going to be a doosey. I wouldn't doubt she cancels it as now the word has spread. We shall see....

Happy Meeting Trailz Ahead!
KT Did

1st Annual Panty Ride...A Day Of Laughs and Giving!

Whewwww! The 1st Annual Panty Ride has come and gone. It was a venture that I knew would come off and it did. WROC 'n WROL had a vision and it panned out with a bunch of help from our riding community and friends! It always amazes me what riders do to give to us all and this time I was in awe of it. Am I tooting my horn?... you betcha! Nothing better than riding and seeing those give back doing what they love most. You all know I believe in that and this time, it worked. I witnessed many humbling themselves in panties to ride and give for our benefit.
This was the first ride for WROC 'n WROL (Women Riders Of California 'n We Ride Our Lifestyle). We called on a lot of our community to donate and give to our ride benefiting Colettes's Children's Home in Huntington Beach, CA. They gave, and, Colette's received. We love that! Everyone volunteered.

We started out at Anaheim Fullerton Harley Davidson. Disco (Tom Loveland) over there at AFHD donated the flyers--2000 of them! He also volunteered the premises to start out from, and had coffee and donuts waiting for all. On top of that he had already set up a couple of tents and a few tables for us to work from and had volunteer from HD to help us out! He pulled out all the stops for this event and us, and we, as WROC, will be forever grateful for that contribution!

After the National Anthem being sung, the local CHP escorted our approximately 120 riders onto the freeway. The ride route took us through the 605 S. to Pacific Coast Highway and then up to the 55 fwy. to Original Mikes for the fun happenings. Original Mikes is a local Santa Ana, California restaurant who donated their premises for the occasion. They made-up a special menu for us and the waiters/waitresses wore panties to support us. They had the Ricky Lewis band playing and were ready in the parking lot with security at hand for the motorcycles.

We had an itinerary to accomplish. Raffles rounds... 2 of them.. 1 high end raffle round... in between those raffles we planned out a pantie contest--men and women. That was the clincher!

Who knew! I didn't think that the men would be into it that much. But as you can see by the sideshow pictures, the men filled the stage! It was soooooo much fun. We decided beforehand, as a group, that we would accept the vote of the house, but needed a panel of judges to make the vote final. I was part of the judges and along with with a few others agreed that our RYNO won, panties down with his red bra and panties on... however, the vote went to our Frank who spun the crowd with a clothespin titty and humungous yells from the crowd! We also had a pirate pink bra with tickets loaded in it with a WROC flyer pinned on his back. I called him the pantie pirate, as he had a black pantie slung over his eye! He couldn't have been more perfect! Next year, I will definitely be more prepared for a tie prize. It was difficult people... trust me! In my opinion, if a man comes in bra and panties to a biker ride... hands down... he wins! I will be happy to give out that extraordinary prize next year! Not to say that Frank didn't have it either...with his clothespin titty! It was damn hard folks...but fun! BJ and Woody came out on their remote V-Rod to present the prize certificates. That was something to see too.

The chicks made a huge impression. One had wore her panties and made a perfect impact. GI Jess, another judge, and I thought she should have won but we were overruled by the crowd. Again, any woman who just wears panties to a pantie ride should get a prize. All in the learning game. However, Joy and Karlene had a good take on the decoration of the pantie and that's why they had a close call. It was tough to choose between the two. The crowd had an even yelling and it turned out that Karlene did get it. Joy tried to rip her panties off, but in the fun of it, Karlene just blew a party pantie whistle at her.

I made pantie flags for the core group. Each one us had it on our bikes. Mine was support the troops camouflaged flag. Everyone seemed to notice them and that's exactly what we wanted, which is why we had a pantie ride! We wanted our charity to be noticed, and it was.

I have to say thank you to the women I worked with. Lori, Debbie, Tamalyn, June & Christina! As a group we worked well together with all our different suggestions, opinions and input, it married and made good. I have to say thank you to our members for their gracious help too! Karlene and Denise and others that, forgive me for names forgotten here at this writing, were integral to our ride! A huge thank you to our sponsors and donors! Yahoooooooooo! The twitter even worked for us! I met Christina Shook, author of "Chicks on Bikes" on twitter and she graciously donated an autographed book that went over like crazeeeeeeee! I intend to hook up with her in the near future for a nice cold beer in my hometown Northern Cali soon. All these people, together, put this on. Not just WROC. We had a vision. That's it. The people made it happen. It happened, and it happened in a great way!

The biggest thank you is to everyone that showed up!! Its one thing to put something like this on... its another thing to have people show up for it and support it! We had that in numbers more than we could imagine! Thank you sooooo much to those that came! You all rocked and rolled in the true sense of the words! Hugzzzz to you all! Bless you all and on to the next big give gig!

I posted the pics again on Flickr as a sideshow. Here is the link:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/wrocnwrol/sets/72157622573919856/show/

KT Did

Update on Ride and Things...

Boy has it been a whirlwind. I have to say first, I sincerely apologize for not getting on to read any blogs. I have just been able to peep in every so often and keep things up. WROC's 1st Annual Panty Ride is tomorrow. We have done our preparations and now its just sit back and wait to see if it all turns out good. I think that is the worse part of it all.... waiting. I am riding in the sidecar with a friend's daughter so that will be a first for me... riding in a "ride" in the sidecar hack setup. Should be interesting. I made panty flags for the core member's bikes, and yes we are all wearing panties, however most of us are wearing them over our jeans. We are having a prize for the best dressed up decorated panties... both man and woman. You will see the pics. Fun stuff.

Bart Broadnax wrote and produced a theme song for WROC 'N WROL. He posted it on Amazon and it will be on iTunes and Rhapsody next week. The proceeds from this Sunday the 11th through Tuesday the 13th will be given to Colette's Children Home! So if you can't make the ride and want to donate... download the song from Amazon.

Other stuff and thank yous: I just want to mention is, that my mother's will is finally settling up. Finally over with the laws under Idaho State. So travelling and just thinking and having that whole situation is finally going to be off our backs. Everyone can brush that off and live now. My family is not the best to work with, so its been tough and in situations like this where everyone, including myself, has a good opinion and rightfully so, I am glad to have this done and gone forever.

Amidst all that, my nephew went down on his motorcycle almost 4 weeks ago now. He smacked a tree and blew out his pelvis. It's been really tough on everyone, Mom, Dad, brothers... all. He had his 21st birthday in the hospital and probably will never remember it. He is on complete dialysis. His liver is being babied daily. Just a ton of other stuff happening to the body. He went through over 100 pints of blood the first couple of days of surgeries. No alcohol or drugs involved. Just a mistake in calculations it looks like. He's been riding forever, so he is not a new rider...you can take that out of the equation. We are all thinking well and positive for him and so far it is working. He was wearing full face and body armour, so no head injuries or spinal injuries. My love and prayers are out there in full force and I thank those of you who have done the same for the family. I didn't write anything about him initially cause I didn't, and still don't want, any negative comments on this... he is still hanging by a thread but still hanging on. Being "not out of the woods" to me means "there is still a way out of the woods".

So, Yes...life happens and sometimes it sucks and sometimes its good. In all times though, I learn a good life lesson. Its hard to take the lesson on the nephew, except to stay within limits of your skills as a rider... always. Sometimes that can be hard when you have a bitchin bike to ride, but you have to be around to ride it too. The other lessons are to give when you can. Doesn't have to be all the time, just when you can.

So, everyone, I will be back to check all you out behind my computer next week when all is a little more relaxed, post my pics and read your blogs finally! I have missed reading about all your adventures. Facebook has been my only real catch-up... its fast and I can do it on my phone along with twitting the tweeter tweetsies, but I like to sit down and read my blogger's blog stories behind the computer with large letters :)

Rollin' the Ride With Life,
KT Did

JUST MY OPINION- PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN BIKER TODAY

What happened? Did we forget?! Where are all the patriotic people showing their unity and support for the 9/11 victims that were murdered eight years ago?! Every lawn and vehicle had flags on it that first year. This morning I was out on the road with my flag on my bike and I saw NOT ONE flag--except on a motorcycle!

Today I am proud to be a biker in America. Bikers were the only vehicle I saw a flag on! They are riding with their flags attached to their bikes all over the place for rides in remembrance of today, 9/11. Today is the 9/11 ride from Cooks Corners to Long Beach fireman's home Gary Biggerstaff. He hasn't forgotten. He has members from NYFD come in and pay tribute to those killed that day. Brian Patrick Monaghan was a victim that day. I wrote about him on the Project 2996 a couple of years ago. I won't forget him and I didn't even know him. Consider that you flag less people out there!

Am I a little pissed here?! Disappointed too you might say.

We cannot forget even though we must go on. We have to remember and not take our nation for granted. With all the crap going around in e-mails and blogs and the net bashing our President and policies, we still are AMERICA and we still need to fly our flag and remember today to show all the other asshole countries we don't go down. People in other countries piss on, spit at, and burn our flag. It's to be respected. I say, if you can't respect our country and our flag... then get the hell out of it. Go live somewhere else where you can ride motorcycles, drive cars, VOTE, speak your opinion, wear anything you want, bitch about your leader and not get your tongue cut out, not get executed for walking on the wrong side of the road,... need I go on?!

Today is a day of remembrance in a way we should never have thought to think of as a day of remembering. To show our flag is a symbol for other countries to see that we won't let it happen again. I have my flag a flying, hope you do too.

JUST MY OPINION, but I am Proud to be a Biker in America!

KT Did

WROC 'N WROL'S 1ST ANNUAL PANTY RIDE!

Its official! WROC is having our 1st Annual Panty Ride on October 11, 2009 to benefit Colette's Children Home to help homeless women and children get back on their feet to a better life!

Why a panty ride you say?! WE WANT ATTENTION! That's it. We want people to remember this day and come back year after year after year with a good smile. I will assure you, however, I will be wearing my panties on the outside of my jeans :) Either way, we want everyone to come and give and leave happy.

I am very proud to be Vice President of WROC and working side by side with women who love to ride and love to give as part of their lives. This has been a a project in the works for most of this year, and now it has come to fruition with the help of some great sponsors. I personally thank you all and those that are giving us an opportunity to get this first ride of ours up and going!

If anyone is in the area, please come on October 11th. If you don't ride, join us at Original Mike's in Santa Ana! Just come and have some fun.

Let's WROC 'N WROL for Colettes!

If you want to find out more about WROC 'N WROL check out our website at www.wrocnwrol.com.

KT Did

Sturgis Week

Boy was that trip! Now that is has been a couple of weeks, I am finally doing some blogging about it. Lot of things have happened and still are going on, so you have a little brief here and some pics on my flicker to check out if you all want too.

Sturgis 2009. I am back and still recovering from it. How does that happen, I have to ask myself. Well... it did and now its over til next year. Eight days of rally food, riding, people, weather mania, great music, and, of course, toilets with no paper covers.

Tamalyn and I had a 2 day trip out to Sturgis and when we arrived we spared no time to get to Lazelle St. for the main street happenings. After two days on the road we were ready for a drink. We had almost every day planned out and that included meeting up with some people for a birthday at One Eyed Jacks. We blew it out and it left me virtually lifeless the next morning. However, I rallied and found my camera and stepped out to capture some of Sturgis offerings on film.

The town is a vibrant one... to say the least at this time of rally season. Our house was just a couple of blocks from the main street so we were able to have a few drinks and walk home with smiles. The Sons of Anarchy were filming all week long in the mornings, which brought the celeb action into town. It seems that everyone, from all over the world comes to the little town of Sturgis to play for the week. Whether you ride or not, Sturgis has something for everyone. Music, crazies, nude chicks, booze, rally food and of course riding down the main street is all for anyone who wants to enjoy it. The riding is all out of town. Down the roads to middle America..that's where the adventure is.


Denise & Buffalo

Tuesday, brought a new day and the ride to Mt. Rushmore. Needles Highway and Ironhorse Highways are full of spectacular curves and switchbacks. This was a day I rode "bitch". My back went out while riding and I had to turn my bike around just as I got to Rapid City. John & Denise chimed in for me and I got to enjoy the day after all. I am completely happy I did too! I got to see the canyons and actually enjoyed the curves while taking pictures galore. For my first time amongst this beautiful scenery I felt privileged to ride and view it ala the "IHG" (Steph's)way. I have decided I may start a "Rent 'A Dude Ona Bike" business for just these occassions ;) So Denise, John, Dave, Dee & I rode on the day. Up past Rapid City to Custer Park and Mt. Rushmore.

We stopped and had lunch in the little town of Keystone. I love these towns. They are small and bring a lot of history. We didn't stay long, so I didn't have much time to discover the background of it. We wanted to make the ride day a whole one. So off we rode.

Antelope, prarie dogs, wild turkeys and buffalo all caught the eye of this California chick. John even got head swiped by a wild turkey on one of his outings. Guess the turkey didn't like his gobble mimic. The experience of just being a mere 10' to 15' from a herd of Buffalo is hard to describe. They are huge! Every damn part of that animal. I got up with my wide angle and shot a couple then got a little freaky when one popped his head up from eating. Sureal to say the least. We spent the whole day into the night riding.

The highway also brought to us spectacular topography. The rocks on the two lane road look like they were monsters coming up from the beneath the earth's surface. For miles they protude upwards like giant fingers pointing to the sky. It gave me an almost eerie feeling to be riding underneath these rock formations. Prehistoric like and trees making the daylight dark. It was just incredible.

We got different angles of the faces at Mt. Rushmore. Distance and then right up under it. Riding under the President faces is awesome... immense. We got up under it after riding around the park all day. As we were riding by the Presidents, the lightening started and the race to get off the hill and under cover began. Too late, we got it. The rain swooped in and we beat it out of the hills until we realized it was just chasing us too fast. Into the "Common Cents" gas station overhang we went... along with a few others. Here everyone put their rain suits on and grabbed as many garbage bags to cover up for the hour left to ride home. It was talking with others and exchanging stories of the wet stuff that made time go by. It was fun.


Me & Finch

Me & Friend Danny Chauncey of .38 Special

The rally week was full of the usual rally shanigans. Music from friend Danny Chauncy and .38 Special was at the Broken Spoke and just made it back to say hello and hear a little of the band play. Tamalyn & Karlene were already there with their Chulula hats on having fun. Late nights every night and always filled with music. I didn't get there til about 10:30 after the ride, but there was plenty of fun left. I met Finch, of Finch's Custom Styled Cycles there.

I went to the Sturgis Museum the next day and took some pics. Saw Finch there again too. Talked awhile with him... nice guy.

Karlene and I made a day and rode out to Deadwood. This is a nice little ride with smooth curves. You enter the town and you feel like you are riding down history lane, albiet new history. After photographing the town, I found out it has burned down a couple of times. I asked the lady behind the counter if the chair on the wall is the real chair that Buffalo Bill was shot in and she replied, "now who am I to break that legend", with a smile I took it anyway. Evidently, right across the street, down the alley and ten feet below dirt level is the true spot of the original saloon where he was shot. Buried as the years went by.


Deadwood Riding

We both had a great meal in Kevin Costner's place, The Midnight Star. Here he has his costumes from a few of his movies there hanging on the walls. It was a little movieland, so to speak, of his being an actor. I loved the bathroom! It was the best bathroom yet, other than the house I was staying at, complete with soap and paper towels. Road luxury :)

We parked the bikes and took off to the main drag of Deadwood and hit the Harley stores (two in this little town for the week) and looked around. Enjoyed the local music from afar and decided it would be time to get back. The m.o. for the week had been rain coming in around 3:30 to 4:00 each afternoon and the dark clouds were coming in. We loaded up our loot on our bikes and headed back to Sturgis. I need to go back just to enjoy this little town. Wouldn't mind just staying there next time.

About 10 minutes after we got back to the house it started pouring. The rest of the group pulled up in the driveway just as it started too. Everyone but Denise. The sirens were now beckoning to everyone that a good storm was ahead. Asking where Denise was, we found out she went into town to check on some wheels she wanted for her Street Glide. Within just a few minutes the rain went into hail, then the hail went into golfball sized hail! In sheets. I never have seen anything like it. It was hard to open the house doors to take pictures as the wind was throwing it at us. For about a half hour we watched in amazement and hoped that those on the road were under cover and safe. Karlene and I looked at each other and smiled at the fact we were safe too. When everything calmed down... Denise rode up. She had taken cover underneath one of the church parking tents. She said the people under the tent wasn't too happy she rode under it with her bike. She has a couple of little dents in it from the hail, but she faired ok. She was pretty shaken up when she walked through the front door. Now that's a true biker chick.


Denise...Rider In The Storm

Got a Little Windy Too!

As soon as the hail came... it all went it seemed. So Karlene and I headed up to the main street to eat and drink again. Signs of the storm's damage was apparent. Trees and branches in the road, windshields of vehicles cracked and broken, flooding, and yet the party at Sturgis rode on. Gotta laugh at that just a little folks...and we joined in.

All in all I had a great time in Sturgis. After this late in my posting this, there have been hundreds of Sturgis stories... IHG did a pretty good job at writing about it. But one of the highlights was meeting up with Stephanie. We had a little difficulty finding her at the Knucklhead Saloon at first, beings that the wrestling matches packed the house and, again, it started raining, but we finally found each other just in time for a little pic and some Blogger Hugzzz. Sorry we missed Joker, but that's how it goes sometimes. As it was, I could only stay a few short minutes to say hi to Steph and her man, as everyone had plans to see VanZandt. So, hopefully, again...next time with more time and the showing of Joker.

After a long week it was time to load up and get home. I am happy I went, albiet my strength was shortened but I had a great time and I will go again. Next year is another and plans are being made already. With all the weather changes there, it still wasn't that bad. Unfortunately there was a death of a rider on the road the last day there riding. The rain was just gruesome on that day.

I posted most of the pics on my Flickr account. Again, you can go there.... too many of them. I have a couple of small videos to set up for you too in due time. So......


Happy Sturgis Trailzzz
Til Next Time
KT Did

JASON R. DOERR--R.I.P.

Motorcycles was his life and his passion," .... "He knew every nut and bolt of a bike... He certainly will be missed by all - employees and customers alike."

Rest In Peace Jason/Redbeard

I apologize for the lack of information. Jason's funeral memorial was today and it was so fast that I put a link up to the article instead of telling you all about him. Jason was one behind the counter at the Harley store. A very nice guy. Someone you don't forget. Well over 100 bikes rode in for him today from two Harley dealerships that he worked at. During the service I found out more about him and how loved he was by everyone who attended. The church was full.

He was a husband, a step father, an avid fisherman, a poet and generally a man with a huge heart. There wasn't a dry eye there. His fishing buddies set up an area with all his poles and pictures of him while out on the ocean. People spoke about his passion for riding and knowing a motorcycle inside and out. His family and friends had hundred of memories of them all living life together.

During the service the Pastor had mentioned that from now on there will be a date on his grave May 4, 1978-August 12, 2009. The date he was born and the date his left us. The date you are born and the date you pass are two dates you don't remember...you just don't, but the dash is what is important. The dash represents the life you make. How you live life and how you give back and love the ones that encircle you. Jason has loads of love he created and a heart of poetry to go along with.

On his Memorial Card his wife printed up two of his poems. Here is one of them:

PASS US BY

When the sun sets on the ocean of life, will it blaze the sky

Close our ride with magic to the eye

So majestic, would you begin to cry

Or will it just pass us by...

The sun lays down on the horizon without regard to eyes in view

Only gazed upon by a select few

Will it answer the questions only you knew

Or will it just pass us by...

When the day is spent

How many questions have we lent

Will conclusions find our way

Can answers light the day

Or will it just pass us by...

When the cover closes on the other side

How many chapters are inside

Hope we all enjoyed the ride

Or did it just pass us by...

----Jason Doerr

Today left me with a lot to think about. I have been struggling to find the time just to post my Sturgis trip between doctors appointments and all my stuff, but today made me realize even more that all that is not so important. It is, however, important to make life a real thing. Live it. Love it. In any way you want to. It is just too short otherwise. Why be here if you can't live the life you need too!?

So my glass goes high to Jason for living life and riding it with a passion. He is a soul that will never been forgotten in those hearts of his loved ones. A soul that did not let life pass him by. He lived it. He leaves his legacy for those to do the same. He rekindled a spark in me and I thank him for that one.

KT Did

RICHARD QUIGLEY

I thought I would pass this on as it was passed on to me by my ABATE people. Its a great interview on Richard Quiqley who fought the helmet law for us in the State of California for years and unfortunately passed on with cancer.



Rest in Peace.

KT Did

Take A Ride In A Sidecar--Its Fun!

Sturgis is upon us and I am about to go out the door. Tamalyn & I are tripping together there. But before I head on out here I wanted to post my new camcorder tape. It can be long and boring, so just turn it off whenever, but I wanted to show how clear the pic is. I am taking it to Sturgis and hooking it on the handlbars so I hope to bring you some fun.

The camera is a Go Pro Hero for motorsports. I ordered the extra attachments for hook up on the handlebars and roll bar. I used the roll bar attachment and hooked it up on the front end of the sidecar. Easy. It has approximately 56 minutes of recording. So I am doubling up on cards and batteries.

Music is by DC Slater. I know its kinda rad for this video but I love the guy's guitar work and you can always turn it down if you don't like it.

Okay......... who is going to Sturgis!!? Where are we meeting up!!??

Happy Sturgis Trailzzz
KT Did

BACK IN THE SADDLE AGAIN!

Coffee & Chrome


Karlene helping out.

I am better. Not complete, but better. I have been going crazy about getting back into the saddle again and did. Albeit on the URAL, but it sure did feel good being out on the road.

Sunday was WROC's first meet and greet. So it was a perfect opportunity to try the muscles out on riding the sidecar. Taking the URAL turned out to be perfect for me on the first day out after almost 5 weeks.

Karlene text me at 5:30 am and asked if I was taking the URAL and could she ride with me if I was. How fun! "Yes, of course" I said and she was at my door at 7:45 a.m. sharp. I used the sidecar outfit as the "office" and it turned out perfectly. I loaded up with the Quick Throttles, file cabinet and all the stuff we needed and off we went. I thought if I needed to pull over and let her ride it, she could. I never did. I felt pretty good on it all day and we had a blast with everyone. It was a very hot day and because I had so much fun I wasn't affected by it so much.

The meet up was at this great little coffee place, Coffee & Chrome. It has a large parking lot and great coffee to boot. She also makes egg sandwiches and such in this all complete little place. We will be using this as our kick off spots for rides. We signed up six new members and met some great people who rode in to join in the ride. We had 20 bikes and 25 people join us in the ride. June mapped out the ride route through Carbon Canyon for a 2 hour ride or so. Karlene and I packed up the "office" to go on to Original Mikes. On the way we stopped off at LifeStyles to say hello to my Deluxe (kickstand is on now!) We shopped, I bought the new Fulmer Groovey helmet --luv it! Then off we went for a little ride through Fullerton and Orange to Mike's. As soon as we hit the intersection we saw the group and honked and went crazy with each other. It was fun! The day was successful and I look forward to riding with the ladies and having some more great ride days with everyone. WROC 'N WROL!

Group pic before the ride.

I posted the pics at WROC's flickr photo site, if you want to go over there and check them out. David is on his Street Glide that was featured in Bagger Magazine. Its a hot bike and worth looking at.

Another bright thing happened today. Tamalyn rang me up and said they have an extra spot in the house for the Sturgis run. So I am going after all. Seems since I am feeling better, and the house is available, I might as well. My check goes in tomorrow and I now feel locked in. Tamalyn always trailers her bikes to the rallies and I am popping my bike onto her trailer. My back just can't take that long ride now anyway and I am looking forward to riding Sturgis with a relaxed body when I get there. So it is all working out! Joker and Steph, I am looking forward to meeting up! We need to get a date and place and time!

So feeling much, much better and back in at least the URAL saddle...it sure does feel good!

Thanks to everyone with all the well wishes... they worked!

More Happy Trailzzz to Come!

KT Did

A LITTLE BREAK

I am sorry I haven't been around lately. I have been able to peek in every so often, but, I had a little surgery. I am okay...not to worry. Its the mending that threw me a little. All that anesthesia---yuk! I much rather have a few shots of tequila :) I won't go into it except that it is nothing related to motorcycle riding. Just something I have been putting off and now its over. So I just wanted to touch the blog base here and hope to catch up on every one's Summer ride fun!

Just a note... I know I am to meet a couple of you at Sturgis. At this point, I am not sure I am going because of a couple of things. The house we were to rent is a no go, unfortunately. Betsy is still trying to figure out the situation. Its harder on her since she hasn't missed a Sturgis in more than a couple of decades. She still is working on a single room and may grab it. I hope it all works out for her, and it will...the way it is suppose to work out. Also, my surgery was more debilitating than planned and my back muscles need more training to get in shape to stay on the bike for a long ride. I have thought about trailering and may do so still if a house comes into play... all depends. I have decided to go with the flow of the Universe, as they say. If it's meant to be then I will be there and will be sitting with you at the saloon having a great blogger reunion time! If it's not meant to be, then simply there will be another time. I can't suffer over it. Sturgis will happen next year too. I much rather have a relaxing, decent ride and enjoy my old self going there, being there and riding home than working so hard to make it all happen. So my thought is to train by riding back and forth from Northern California to Southern California. Test my back out and get it stronger for rides. In any case, and whatever happens, I am okay with it. I know I will be reading and living vicariously though all you that go.

On another note, the WROC group is having a meet and greet ride this Sunday, the 12th. WROC will be meeting at Chrome & Coffee in Fullerton for a kickstands up 10:30 a.m. time, for a ride that ends up at Orginal Mike's in Santa Ana. If any of you are local...join us. Just a fun ride. Hope to see you. I plan to go and hopefully I can ride. I haven't been on the bike for almost 4weeks now. Today I am going to test the URAL out to see how that fairs. Wish me luck as I suck it up. In any case, ride or not, I will be there to meet and greet and enjoy Orginal Mike's and take pics as they ride in.

So there is a little update. I am going to poke around the blogs and see what's happening and look forward to catching up!

Til Next Time,

KT DID

Blogger Award Goes Around and Around.....

A few days ago, Ann over at Random Thoughts bestowed this blogger award upon me. I am greatful that mine was one of the eight blogs she picked. Thanks, Ann!

I'd like to thank all who just stop by and read my little blog and give me such enjoyment by answering the posts! Thanks All!

These blogs are exceedingly charming. These kind bloggers aim to find and be friends. They are not interested in self-aggrandizement. Our hope is that when the ribbons of these prizes are cut, even more friendships are propagated. Please give more attention to these writers. Deliver this award to eight bloggers who must choose eight more and include this cleverly-written text into the body of their award."

I am hoping I will not double up here... but.... here are the eight blogs that I have chosen to receive this award:

Wooleys Rant: He was one of the first bloggers to visit mine... like old dusty friends.

Biker Betty: Yep, she was one of the first chick biker bloggers to visit and still is visiting.

Cruisin Down Under: CDU was the first Ausie to visit and actually sent me a Kangaroo sack!

The Ride: The first Blogger to share flickr photos with me and he always has good material about wrenching even though I still don't understand it.

The Harley-Davidson Mystique: You were one of the first guys to make me laugh.

Road Grits Cafe: This blogger makes me laugh harder and has some great old school thoughts.

Glider Rider: First biker chick blogger to have a content warning on her blog (that I know of).

Chessies Tales...: First good blog banter back and forth on issues that make sense.

There are so many more! I tried to escape the fact that this has gone around a few times but, well.... I just had to put my 8 in the pot. So I think between all of us... we got all of us!

Thanks again Ann!

BTW... you are so close... we need to plan a little ride!

BAC & THE URAL

Okay ... its been a long time since an update and I won't go into a whole lot of the past few weeks, but its been a long strange trip as they say. So much has happened, good and bad stuff, but now that the bad stuff is over the hump, the good will be posted.


Some of WROC with Junior of LifeStyle Cycles

WROC had our first ride being sponsored by LifeStyle Cycles on May 17th. Junior at LifeStyles set us up for VIP at the BAC ride (Bikers Against Cancer). It was a fun morning and I heard we had under a couple of hundred bikes leaving their shop to Irvine Lake. American Metal set us all up for breakfast. I arrived at about 8:00 a.m. just in time for hash browns and my yellow flag waiting for me for traffic control. Took awhile to get the toothpicks out of my eyes ;) Lori managed the parking. The parking lot seemed to disappear in the sea of bikes before the 10:00 a.m. kickstands up. A good thing. Smiles and even a few animals showed up to give a whack for the cancer cure. For two riding groups being fairly new, American Metal and WROC I think the ride went well. The lake was beautiful and the day was a beautiful blue skied umbrella above us. Thanks to Junior for giving us the VIP and thanks to American Metal for a wonderful breakfast to begin the day with. Everyone at BAC made it all happen and made the ride successful. Some pics here for you. You can go to my Flickr pages to view more.


Toots got to show off her new tat... okay now... cool it guys, she is also known as GI JESS! She's a personal trainer and can kick some booty! She rides a Deluxe too and has a cool fairing on it, goes out every weekend with her husband and still has energy to kick but running up and down stairs...which is why she looks so damn good....


Here's Randy of Rock and Roll Customs Paints and Lori, President of WROC N WROL. One of his trucks in the background. That's a Ghost Rider paint job on the truck before the Ghost Rider movie was done.


Emma and her parents even came for line-up.


Nice fannys!

On another note, the part of my mother's trust has been settled. It freed me up from bills and gave me a little to play with and a little bit to donate to some of my favorite charities. My father actually should have reaped the rewards of that money, but he never lived long enough. When my mother died it was split six ways between my siblings. My father always said to save most and do something with your money that you know will bring a smile to your face. When that part of the will settled last week, I did just that. Donated some and bought a little something.

The husband on the URAL. (I covered his mug with clip art :)
I bought a 2009 URAL Sahara. One of 18 sent to the U.S., however, there are quite a few URAL's here. It took a little getting used too. The "yaw" in it threw me off at first, so did the front end. It was so tight I could hardly turn the thing into my driveway. I grabbed the manual and found the little doohickey on the handlebars and loosened it up. Now I can steer it with ease. Yes, I said "steer" it. Its weird not leaning into a curve, but then again, its easily overcome.

So, why did I buy it? For one thing, just as my Dad said... have some fun. I am so positive he is looking down on me and nudging me to laugh more while I enjoy riding. For another practical reason, the husband doesn't ride... at all. So I thought this would be fun to get out, the three of us, Me, husband and Murray. Murray loves it. I have already hooked his rig up. I went to Pet Smart and figured it all out. Pics to come on that one. He has taken two rides already and just sits there with the wind in his furry face. Loves it. So do I. The husband likes it too except when I corner too fast for him...and I know when I am taking it too fast for him when I look down and he is trying to steer and brake from the sidecar :) Makes me laugh so much my goggles fog up! It hasn't hit the freeway yet. It's still in the break-in period and so far its been up to a whopping 55mph in town. 10 more miles to go to hit the freeway at 65mph. I have another 200 miles to go before the 500 mile mark of freeway exploration. I am ready to travel up the coast on Highway 1 with Murray so the freeway needs to come soon.

Speaking of exploring... Carla King, also known as the Duchess of URAL has been everywhere on her URAL and has written a book entitled American Borders. She is currently in Morocco and tweeting about it. She's an amazing traveller on her URAL and braves the continents with her love of riding it. She is also writing a book of her travels in China on the URAL.

The URAL, in no way, will replace my Harleys. I love them too much. As a matter of fact, I craved my two wheels so much I went out for the day and came back with the sorest arms ever. Nice! My neck still hurts...but in a good way.

So that's a couple of things that have been going on. Lots will ba happening in the next couple of months as ride season is upon the country finally. So, til next time. Hope life finds you all healthy and riding!

Happy Trailzzzzz
KT Did

China Ride

My brother Preston is in China. He came upon this and thought of me. Thought I would pass the picture onto you all. It looks like it has a whole little room back there!

KT Did

CALIFORNIA'S SMOG BILL SB435

Just passing this on from ABATE to you. I have lots to tell but still need the time for it. This was important to pass on now. I will be catching up soon. In the meantime, here is the lasted e-mail update I received yesterday.


...just got word that SB 435, the motorcycle smog bill, has passed out of the Appropriations Committee and could be put to a vote on the floor of the Senate as early as next week.

If you haven't already done so, contact your Senator and ask them to oppose SB 435.

According to our lobbyist, the most effective argument we have is that this will result in decreased motorcycle registrations. The reason is because they're counting on all the motorcycles that are currently registered to pay the smog fee in order to fund the various changes that will need to be made in order to include motorcycles in the smog check program. If there ends up being less motorcycles registered as a result of this law then their numbers don't wash and lord knows Kahlifornia doesn't have any money to spare.

If you own multiple registered motorcycles and would likely choose not to re-register all of them because of this law it's important to make that known.

and

The motorcycle smog check program is projected to remove less than 1/2% of total pollutants from vehicles.

The bill could actually result in more pollutants if people choose to ride older motorcycles rather than have to go through smog.

The only place this has been tried before were two counties in AZ and they've given up the program after it was determined to be ineffective.


You can find your Senator at http://www.leginfo.ca.gov/yourleg.html by typing in your zip code. Click on their name and you'll be taken to their home page where you should be able to find a 'contact me' link. That will take you to an online form where you fill out your contact info and are given a space to put your message.

Please pass this on to anyone you think will take action...

KT Did

REMEMBER TO BE PROUD

I have been so busy, but cannot be busy enough to thank and respect those to remember for my being able to ride free in this great country of ours. They say freedom is not free. "They" are right. Many lost lives for this country for what some may say was in vain. I do not agree. Each and every service man and woman who gave their lives in the uniform of America deserves recognition this Memorial Day and every day of our lives.

So from me.... a huge THANK YOU TO MY COUNTRY'S SERVICE MEN AND WOMEN who have made me so proud to be an American. A huge THANK YOU TO THEIR FAMILIES who lost their loved one for a freedom that I have every day in this great country. They did not fall in vain. They live on in the souls of Americans everywhere.

Have a safe Memorial Day Monday and ride safe all weekend.

Proud To Be On American Happy Trailzzz
KT Did

Catching Up.

So here it is... I apologize for not being around lately.

Geezzzz, has everyone been busy...including me. I apologize Dean for worrying you.
I haven't had the mojo to write anything so I have kept away except for the Facebook, Twitting, world. They are easy...one liners and most are redundant. I can go in and out of those forums. Here, though, I like to settle in and read and write. Since I do it purely for enjoyment, I didn't want to force feed you with anything. I have tried to catch-up on a few of my fellow bloggers, but since the concentration is minimum these days with me, I have failed even at that.

The techno world brought me into buying a new phone... a Blackberry Curve to be exact. I am not sure I really "love" it like others do. While I was away, I thought I was responding to blogs and comments, however, it looks like not one got posted. I can receive all my e-mails from my accounts, reply to them, but for some reason...not the blogs. I will have to figure that one out. I was hoping it would take the place of my laptop for simple things like this. I was told it would. I have uploaded the Opera Mini browser for it now and hope that might help. I will see how long my patience can be tried.

With all other excuses I have had to deal with an estate issue and soon it will be over with and will be free of all unintelligent that I have been dealing with. Dealing with people who just don't get it and purely could use some common sense makes me sit back and be grateful that I am a patient person. I can wait it out even though I prefer to get it over and done with. Looks like there is light at the end of the tunnel on that issue.

Riding has been in between and rides are coming. This weekend is a a BAC ride. Bikers Against Cancer at Irvine Lake, in Santiago Canyon. Since my mother, father and mother-in-law died from cancer and a couple of my best girlfriends have battled it, I find it a good cause to give my money to. Cancer Sucks and if I can ride and give my day to raising some funds to fight that devil, I will. I will be at LifeStyle Cycles early Sunday morning for the short ride to Irvine Lake so if anyone is local and wants to join in, let's do it.

On another matter, we have finally formed our new riding group, WROC 'N WROL, Women Riders Of California and We Ride Our Lifestyle. That was a blast to do. Its an easy group to join or just ride along with. We formed it in the hopes to give to small charities that get the monies right then and there. No in betweeners. A ride for our kickoff will be planned soon when we figure it all out. Our website is up but still has a lot of information to be put on it. Slowly but surely it will all come together. At least it is up and running for the season in time for at least two local charitable events.

Further.....Thanks to Willy D's approach to political issues, I understand we still have a chance on the smog issues here in California. He actually got a real letter with a real response! That's rich! I love his letter to his rep and intend on "borrowing" his verbiage. Good stuff there Willy and thanks for posting an update. In the next couple of days I will be sifting through my incoming from ABATE to catch up with them too.

Okay... next.... I bought the "Why We Ride" book by Tami Walker. Glider Rider did a write up on it. I like good stories and think its great women love to ride and have sucked it up into their lives to share it. The way I look at it, if you don't share your good times, then what's the use. I mean, that's why we blog...right?! Sharing is the fun part of life and turning people on to riding is an opportunity that I love to do. I have no weird ego about it. I know my limits, and I know I take my limits to the extent I can. That's the part I like. Giving back to those who helped me. So I hope this little book of inspirations and spirits does Tami well.

Well there you have it... not much when it comes to writing it down. I am still catching up and hope to be back in the swing of thing with pics after the ride on Sunday. I have other things in the pot that when it all comes together I can't wait to write about. Hopefully soon. In the meantime....ride safe.

Happy To Catch Up Trailzzzz
KT Did

Now Is The Time!

Now is the time Californians!

Here is a sample letter to e-mail to your representative. We have a day to write. Write it.
I went into the State's site directly and e-mailed this to my rep. Its easy. Just copy it, fill in your information and push send.


April 25, 2009

Honorable (Your Senator) (Find him/her on this link )
RE: Senate Bill 435

Dear Senator,

As an avid motorcyclist I am contacting you to ask for your NO vote on SB 435. This bill, authored by Senator Fran Pavley in February of this year, authorizes the inclusion of model year 2000 and newer motorcycles, over 280 cc, in California’s smog check program starting in 2012. The bill as introduced, contains no details about the program, only the authorization for it to begin.

I strongly urge your No vote on SB 435 for the following reasons:

Motorcycles do not contribute enough pollution to warrant being included in a smog check program.

Motorcycles constitute less than 3% of the total number of motor vehicles in California and on average, travel 25% less than cars and trucks. Motorcycles, because of their low mileage usage and much higher gas mileage than cars and trucks, represent only 1.5% of the total for all mobile source emissions.California motorcycle engine emission standards were lowered drastically in 2008, making California motorcycles already the cleanest in the nation. There is no evidence that motorcycles that have been modified for performance or gas economy reasons emit any more emissions than stock motorcycles. In fact, a motorcycle smog checks in an Arizona county were eliminated after it was proven that they did not reduce emissions enough to continue the program. The cost to implement and conduct a motorcycle smog check program will cost California more then the value of the emissions it is estimated to save. A smog check program for motorcycles will discourage new motorcycle purchases – an unfortunate (and unnecessary) consequence, especially during the current economic downturn.

I thank you for your time and consideration on this very important issue and again strongly urge you to vote against SB 435.

Sincerely,

Sign Your Name

R.I.P. MARGE HUMMEL

MARGE HUMMEL
Asphalt Angel



I just received the sad news that Marge Hummel has passed away last night from cancer from her Great Grand Neice.


For those of you who do not know of her, I did a blog post in March 2006. Please go on over and read about her. She was a pioneer woman in a time when women stayed barefoot and pregnant in family homes. This one did both and showed us all the power of the freedom feeling of riding a motorcycle.


My humble condolences to the family and friends of this lady who came before many and had the guts to do it.

A special thank you and prayers to the neice who wrote in.

Respects,

KT Did

Just My Opinion -- Where Do We Go From Here?

Everyone says to write your representatives. I do and just today I received my response to a letter I wrote regarding the off road vehicles being taken off the floors because of the "lead" issues. I was urged to join a write in through my local ABATE. Here it is:


Thank you very much for your letter expressing concern about the implementation of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (Public Law 110-314). I understand the challenges facing off-highway vehicle (OHV) manufacturers that must comply with the law's requirements and welcome the opportunity to respond to your concerns.

As you know, legislation enacted last year included requirements intended to limit the exposure of children to lead and phthalates in children's products. Specifically, children's products containing more than 600 parts per million of lead were banned from production and sale. An unexpected consequence of this legislation is that youth motorcycles and OHV's are affected by these limits due to the high lead content of some metal components.

I understand your concern that there is little potential for harm to children due to lead exposure in these vehicles. However, the CPSC currently believes that it does not have the legal authority to provide an exemption to the law at this time. That said, the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation argues that the CPSC may provide a stay of enforcement in this situation and is hopeful that such action may be taken under new leadership at the Commission. Additionally, Senator Jon Tester (D-MT) has introduced legislation known as the "Common Sense in Consumer Product Safety Act" (S. 608), which would exempt vehicles intended for children between the ages of 7 and 12 from the law's lead limits.

In the meantime, the CPSC will continue to review this issue and provide appropriate guidance to manufacturers and retailers. Please know that I will keep your thoughts in mind should the Senate take further action regarding this matter. You may wish to visit the CPSC website at www.cpsc.gov/about/cpsia/cpsia.html for more information.

Again, thank you for writing. If you have any further questions or comments, please do not hesitate to contact my Washington, D.C. office at (202) 224-3841. Best regards.

Sincerely yours,

Dianne Feinstein
United States Senator


Further information about my position on issues of concern to California and the Nation are available at my website http://feinstein.senate.gov/public/. You can also receive electronic e-mail updates by subscribing to my e-mail list at http://feinstein.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=ENewsletterSignup.Signup.

I'm just a little F*&#*ing pissy here... just my opinion.

On another write in campaign.....

In the State of California... Motorcycles may now have to go through smog checks. The bill passed the Senate Transportation Committee.

Write and raise some hell riders!!

Just my other opinion......

KT Did

Rock and Roll Custom Paintworks

I have not done much blogging for the simple reason I have not done much riding, except for the usual around town stuff. I decided since I had to sit out my front yard renovations with cement pours and all that entailed I would get the work I needed done on the Deluxe before I head into some planned rides coming up.

After I had the ape hangers and pipes rearranged for my little self, I decided to go ahead and get larger saddlebags. Harley only makes one set of saddlebags that fit the Deluxe with stock pipes, so I was stuck with bags that looked good but held nothing. After getting the pipes changed out I discovered the bags looked small on the bike and now was the time to move to something more substantial. I had been saving for this moment so I did it.

After packing for a trip never taken (another post for another time), I now know I can get all my clothes on one side of the bike and the other held my emergency items, oil, tools, laptop, half helmet, Road Captain's adapter, all the goods I need and still I have spare room. I bought liners for the bags and lifting them out and walking away with them is the prize! No more undoing bungees to deal with...although I did pack those too. I felt I had a virtual closet with me. Well... okay I did. In any case, I now can take a couple of weeks and go without packing the duffel bag and just open the bags and carry in. To me that is luxury.

Still with projects and the unseen unraveling of the road trip, I still had some spare time to do the last of what I have been wanting to do on the bike, and that is get it painted. I have wanted a Beatles theme painted on the bike since I bought it and since the opportunity had risen,I put it in for painting.

Rock and Roll Custom Paintworks in Orange did a beauty of a job for me. They have been featured on Discovery Chanel, Speed, TLC, Overhaulin', Kustomizer and more is on the table for them. I did not know that when I went there. I just googled local painters locally and the name got me. I e-mailed them and receiving such a quick response from Ken, I went in to talk about my bike. I was impressed from the moment I walked into the shop. Loads of fenders and tanks already painted and ready to go along with a couple of cars in the showroom. There are samplings of artwork all around including custom painted helmets. With all this around, they give off a "Ma & Pa" attitude and give no ego as to who they have painted for. It was very much a local, down to earth shop. They answered all questions for me and the decision was easy... I wanted them to paint my bike.


My Tank Left Side


Tank Right Side--wish this was better--reflections.


Shop At Rock & Roll Custom Paints



When I was ready to bring it in I called and they rallied for a photo shoot I have coming up and they made it happen in less than a week. Awesome. I was a big babypants when I went to pick it up. Seeing the paint job and The Beatles portraits on the tank brought tears as the moment felt complete for me. The memory of my Dad taking me to see The Beatles and the feeling I had at that concert all seemed to hit me all at once. I now have that forever riding with me. It was more than I expected. The faces are right on and the Black Bird's feathers on the front fender down to The Beatles emblem on the back fender are incredible.


Black Bird Fly

Randy, the owner, has it all in the bag there. His walls are covered with pictures of him with celebs that he's painted for. One of him and Michele Smith of American Thunder stood out for me. He did her bike too. He started custom painting cars in his father's shop when he was only 9 years old. Working and learning from industry legend George Barris (Batmobile, Monkee-Mobile, Munsters Coach & more). At age 15, he was custom painting bikes. Yep... my bike was in good hands.

Thanks to everyone over at Rock and Roll Custom Paintworks! Couldn't have been done better with anyone else. The name says it all... Rock and Roll.

So after a few weeks of prep and customizing the bike I am done. Ready to Roll...and ready to roll with our newly formed riding group: WROC. We like to say, WROC N' WROL...that is Women Riders of California--We Ride Our Lifestyle. I will be posting info on that one in the near future.



I will have more photos when I can get the bike to a spot with a better background and no reflection from the tank. In the meantime you can go to the flickr page I have to check out the shop and the first pics taken on the bike.


Randy, Owner of Rock and Roll Custom Paintworks with my bike.

Yep I am stoked.

Yea Yea Yea Its Happy Trailzzz,


KT Did

First Annual Bike Week in New Orleans Needs Suggestions!

I got an e-mail the other day from Karlene. She is in charge of a project and needed some "spread the word" help. I know some of you are from the East Coast and other in between places so I hope you help pass the word. You can contact her through the website.

Here is her letter to me:

I am writing to ask for your assistance, I am assembling an event specifically for women riders - I am looking for some women who lives and knows the area in New Orleans to help lead and guide a group of women riders on a ride. I have the ride route pretty much figured out, but I am running into a snag trying to find riding groups or women that would want to help.
Do you know any clubs, organizations or individuals in that area that would be open to helping? The dates would be May 6th-10th. I have researched on the internet, but most of the websites are outdated etc..I am trying to contact the HOG chapters. This is the inaugural event and I have assembled some pretty large sponsors and wonderful things for women that week.
Here is the main link if you want to check it out..
maybe there is someone on your blog??
Bike Week New Orleans

Thanks all...hope you all can help.

In the meantime, I have been enjoying my new driveway! Post to come. I am taking a couple of short trips and in a couple of weeks I will have lots of tales to tell.

Happy Trailzzz
KT Did

Women on High Heels..March Is Women's History Month

March is Women's History month. For that reason I thought I would write a little about some historic women on eight wheels instead of two. Any of you remember Roller Derby?

My brother Preston and I went to S.F. for the day and on the way we talked about a whole bunch of stuff, and one of them was our memory of watching roller derby being practiced in Alameda. They were a tough set of women and men. Geez they slammed each other.

There they were, all battle torn and bruised up. Laughing, toothless grinning, holes in their stockings on roller skates right after getting thrown and elbowed. Wow! What women! They were scary amazing. One of them was Joanie Weston. The "Golden Girl". She was a beauty, tall platinum blond with an Ursula Andrews figure, and held the title of Roller Derby Queen for four years. She was an all star in the derby world and actually set the team up to win. A hard hitting athlete she was. I don't think Bruno the Bouncer ever wanted to cross her path. She left to the big Roller Derby Rink in the sky in 1997.


This one is a little long but entertaining.

It was always so amazing to me how they would skate around that wooden circle, elbow the other women skaters to try and make them fall, then pull their fellow team skater ahead of the whole pack. Intense moments were when the two in front actually battled it out over an elbow or knee dig. All went well if the others in the back of the pack didn't get into a fight and start ripping each others hair out. By that I mean grabbing a handful of hair and being dragged. Skating smoothly never happened. That was the excitement of the sport. That was the purpose...to wait for the moment that the helmet was thrown to the ground and they would go at it. The two in front would eventually catch up to the pack and inevitably win or fight. Most of the time fight. Yea baby! This was great family entertainment. Arm breaking family television enjoyment.

When I was in Phoenix last year at Bike Week there was a roller derby exhibit. This time it was on concrete. Sure, it was all staged, but they were still falling and roller skating in the heat of the day... and on concrete outdoors. Roller Derby road rash still hurts and it still lives on. The resurgence of the real derby has been upon us too. I might take in show or two if I ever hear of one close.

Here's a little something else I found on You Tube.



So, to me these women made history. Just like the motorcycle legendary women we all know and use as mentors, these women athletes were tough broads that paved a way for all women. They broke boundaries by being mothers, wives and brutes on eight wheels, in public and on TV for all to see...and they got paid for it! Awesome!

Happy Trailing Wheels for Women's History Month!
KT Did

Sons of Anarchy - Hulu.com

I have been trapped in the house during my cement pours in the front yard, so I have been on the computer and in front of the TV a lot in the past couple of days. After watching the commercial, I decided to check out the Hulu.com channel on the Internet. Yep, the Sons of Anarchy are on there. Just insert the show name. I can now watch the reruns during tomorrow's cement event. So I copied the widget to show and tell for those of you yet to discover it. Its an interesting channel. All movies and TV... and its free.

Have fun,
KT Did

It's Joker's Fault!....Custom Rubber Soul!

So I had to do it too after Joker posted his custom, I went in and did it too. I am calling my bike Rubber Soul. My very first album I ever bought and still have...somewhere.

Three posts in one day... think that's a record for me.

Posting Trailzz Away!
KT Did

And The Award Goes To......... Read on....

For a day of the Academy Awards this fun to do. Joker has led me into the Fabulous Blog Award chain gang. Of course, I cannot refuse. As much as a chain it is, I never receive anything, so I will take it. It comes with a set of rules to follow too.

Here are the rules for those of you who have come here to receive your award from me:

1. You must pass it on to 5 other Fabulous bloggers in a post receiving the award.
2. You must include the person that gave you the award, and link it back to them.
3. You must list 5 of your Fabulous addictions in the post.
4. You must copy and paste these rules in the post.

I am going to try and not double back on everyone so I pass the award onto those not listed in Joker's award winning list:

Wooly's Rant
Keep The Rubber Side Down
fasthair
Mimis Motorcycle Journal(She was the first blogging chick I met up with).
Biker Betty (She was the first chick rider I blogged with).
Joker--The Harley-Davidson Mystique

Okay... now for my addiction list:

1. I am addicted to taking my time, but I am always on time.
2. Laughiing at everything... even the bad. Sometimes I have to leave the room.
3. Chocolate and a good glass of red wine & Tostidos whole grain tortilla chips.
4. Riding and tweaking the bikes. Don't think that will ever stop. Its ongoing.
5. High blood pressure pills.

There you have it. So I am doing what Ann and Joker said to do and that is to spread the love around.

With two posts in one day I am leaving for a few days on a little trip. Nope not riding, just waiting for the cement to dry on the driveway. Yippeeee!

Thank you Joker!

Happy Trailzz
KT Did

Virtual Riding Television

For those of you who can't get out and about riding due to weather or otherwise, I have this great link with some of the best footage out there taken from a motorcycle. The site is called Virtual Riding Television and they are out of Canada.

They also have their own You Tube site. VRide TV.

Virtual Happy Trailzz
KT Did

ITS WOOLEY BUGGERS FAULT!

Wooley, did I know you when I was a kid on my dead end street?!

You brought back memories of my own little fire truck. I am smiling happily here with the wind in my hair. I guess this was the beginning of it all. Funny, but this is one of a handful of pictures I have of me as a kid. Wouldn't you know, I am in my fire truck. My brother Peter had the Chevy... go figure that one out!

I surely hope to meet you one day Wooley. I think we are kindred spirits. Thank you for your memory. One thing though: I don't push... unless its a V-Twin these days;)

Ladder Up The Happy Trailzzz,
KT Did

Happy Valentines Day!

How about some cheese for Valentines Day... Lamb Chopper cheese to be exact. Yes, it was bought because of the label. However, the cheese is/was very good. I ate it all during the past couple of days. Couldn't wait til Valentines Day. Foogitaboutit...it was good!

Smooth
Creamy
Not too hard
Not too soft
Yes, you need a knife
Does not spread
Put an olive on the top

(Joker: I expect your comment will be an interesting one)

It seems that Cypress Grove has a whole line of cheeses with unusual names such as, Purple Haze, Humboldt Fog, Fog Lights, Mad River Roll, and so on. Since I liked the Lamb Chopper, I think I will go on to the Mad River Roll next. Hmmmmmmm...Lets see here, we could make a little story out of the cheese names:

Lamb Chopper took a ride after taking some Purple Haze. She hit some tortuous Humboldt Fog. She had no Fog Lights on her bike. She almost took a Mad River Roll but got it together and got home safe. All to be milked for some cheese. The lesson: Don't get wasted and ride! Have a safe Valentines Day!

So there it is... my biker cheese tasting/eating/recovery/review/story.

Wishing you all a pleasurable Valentines Day. Since I am out of cheese, I am going to eat popcorn and watch tv...nice:) Make it a safe and great one folks!



Happy Valentine Trailzzzz
KT Did

"FILLERUP" TO THE GAS PUMPS!

For some reason today I got a little reminiscent of the past.

I was watching Pearl Harbor tonight and saw the scene where the chick (Kate Beckinsale) is talking to the guy (Ben Afleck) in front of a gas station. I thought of how much I loved that particular scene. There they were, two people talking in front of two old gas station pumps. I know some of you don't remember those pumps actually working, but I do. I know, I am telling my age, something I am not shy of ever doing. I am what I am... almost 55. The thing is, I miss it. I miss the service. I miss the one on one. I miss the paint job on the pumps and how they kept those station really, really, really clean. The neon lights on the station. I miss those days of paying nothing for gas and then going to the Sweet Shop to get a burger and coke on lunch money and listen to the Juke Box after filling the tank.

At the pump, the owner, or kid, would come up to your car window in a uniform and usually with a little cap on and say, "What would you like Sir", to my father. "Fillerup", he would say back. There was a feeling of being special in the gas station back then. The attendant would run around and grab the pump. Ding, ding, ding. Remember that? There was a dinging sound while the gas was being emptied into the tank. While our station wagon was being filled with leaded gas, he would grab the cloth and wash the windshield. Yes, I said cloth. There were no squeegees back then. He would not only wash the windshield, but he would wash the rear view mirrors and back window too. All with that goofy looking pointy cap on his head. Anything was at your command back then in the gas station. My father would have to do nothing. Just listen to my mother yelling at us kids in the back of the station wagon while she was smoking Pal Mals...all in the gas station.

For some reason I used to Lovvvvvvve the smell of gas. I figured out, when I got older, the reason my Dad would get out of the car was because my mother was always screaming at us 6 kids. It was his private time so to speak. So he would get out of the car after the attendant started his service. That's when I loved to be in the gas station....My dad used to sing this song: Gasoleeen like in Kakoleeen. Over and over and over again. I loved it. I always had permission to get out of the car whenever my dad did just so I could smell the gas and have my father serendade me with his silly song he sang just for me. My mother knew I loved the smell of gas and knew dad's song time for me was special. So I can thank them both for the memory. Crazy chick I was back then. Go figure I don't have lung cancer... yet. My brother Peter and my Mother used to laugh at us out there in the gas station. My mother saying: Look at Katy Did and Daddy being silly. What a sight, me looking up to my dad while he sang that old silly song...to me while I smelled the gas! One great memory. One I will cherish forever. I felt like I was number one with my father. We had a connection of the gas station and later on in my life... motorcycles (He used to "test drive" my boyfriend's bikes before I got to go on the dates--that's a picture..my father riding bitch on my boyfriend's bikes!)

This year in June, I am riding with Gloria and Mariecruz to the Grand Canyon. On our way back we are riding Route 66. I think I will feel right at home on that road. I think I will have come full circle on the retro circuit feel of the road when I am on that. Sorta like an old bag on a bike. I hope to see a gas station, working or not, with pumps and all. I hope to feel that feeling I had and still hold in my heart for that gas station pump and sing that little song my dad did to me in my head. Silly, I know, but I feel we all have that little something... that little silliness... that little love memory that keeps us going as riders. That little gas pump on the road that could and did and will.

Those old gas station pumps now are in some one's backyard as conversation pieces, sold at swap meets, or in some dump yard considered as useless items. To me they are a memory made of diamonds. They are gold and worth a million good memories which I wish kids today could have. A part of my life. A time that will never be again. Sorta like James Dean, Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra, or my brother Peter who would have been 57 this year if he had lived. We had some incredible good memories of that time between us...if you recall from an earlier post, he had the mini bike in my life.

So I guess this post is of growing...being able to take the change and bring to today the experience and joy of the past. Being able to keep the past alive, even though most of it is gone and the recurrences of it is unattainable today.

Ordering the burger and malt in the Sweet Shop next to the Alameda Theatre is gone. The gas station pumps are gone. The laughter with my brother Peter is gone. But I will never forget what it gave to me. Love. Love of Life and the continuance of that in memory that is not gone. A forever part of my soul.

Life only lasts once. As riders we generally know this. As riders we constantly remind each other of it. Why? I guess, like the gas pump, it can only last for so long. Then we become a memory.... but one hell of memory it is. It is a great life this is that we ride and love each moment of it. Whether its to go to the store and buy milk or ride the Iron Butt Ride. We need to live it. Ride it. Enjoy it. Marry it with our souls and spirit and ride like crazy til we can't ride anymore and tell the tale.

So lift the glass and cheers:
To The Gas Pumps Gone By And To Pumping Our Rides With Miles Ahead Of Us!

Happy Pumping Trailzzzz.
KT Did