Rocket City Wings Huntsville, Alabama -- Chapter B, Region A Friends for Fun, Safety & Knowledge July 2008

There is no place like home
  - From the Chapter Directors

Before I say anything else, "Happy Independence Day!"  This is the time that we celebrate the establishment of a government and a country where the people are free enough to complain and whine most of the time.  Seriously, be proud of YOUR country, and remember to stand up tall because we live in the best country in this whole world.

The past two months seems to have been a flurry of activity for me as well as a lot of others.  I have to apologize for my busy schedule and my absence from many of the chapter activities that I would have liked to have attended.  Unfortunately, work has been all consuming.

Many thanks to Richard Chapman for conducting the June meeting while we were running around Alaska.  I also want to thank everyone else for stepping in to help during the other times recently when I was busy working.  I have a super special thank you for my loving wife, Elizabeth.

Well, compared to the high temperatures of mid 50s that we had in the 49th state, we are really smoldering.  For that matter, I think that we can accurately state that summer-time temperatures and weather have arrived in Dixie.  Here is the basic forecast, HOT, Humid, and Hazy with a chance of scattered afternoon thunderstorms.  Okay, now you don't have to watch the evening weather forecast for the next several weeks.  (Hey, I have about as much a chance of being right as the professional forecasters have lately)

Regarding our Alaska experience; that has got to be one of the most spectacular trips that I have ever made.  We saw things that I only dreamed of seeing.  Believe me when I say this; TV does not do it justice.  And of course we did get to experience part of Alaska that you should really experience it, on a motorcycle.  We rented motorcycles twice and had wonderful rides both times.  But even with the motorcycle rides, I was very, very glad to get home.  After just over two weeks of travel and daily experiences, I was getting to the point that I just wanted to stop and rest.  Unfortunately, Elizabeth ended our trip by getting sick.  By the time we walked through our house door she was running a fever over 100.  A day later she could not swallow and she was up by more than another degree.  But even with suffering with her worse sore throat that she can remember, she said that she would not trade that last day of riding in Alaska.  But I'm glad to be home, with family, friends, and my dog.

Well, since I have been sort of talking all over the spectrum ... I want to mention Gas Prices.  First of all, even with our prices at four dollars a gallon we still have it very easy.  The folks in Canada are already paying just shy of six a gallon.  And we ride a vehicle that can get very good gas mileage.  If you ride a GL1800 and you are riding in conditions where your speed is around 40-50, then you can get upper 40s MPG.  I have before gotten 50 MPG on a trip with Elizabeth on the back and pulling a trailer.  Obviously, if you ride interstate your economy will drop significantly.  There is a little hint regarding the GL1800; periodically reset your ECM for better mileage.

I have two quick event reminders; Wing-Ding in Greenville, SC that technically starts on the 2nd of July, and our Ride for Kids Pancake Breakfast which is just one month later, so please get busy selling those tickets.  If you need any please contact Elizabeth.

Until next time, smile at those you don't know, hug those that you care about, and kiss the one that you said, "I do" to.

John & Elizabeth Griswold

Reminder! The Ride for Kids Pancake breakfast is only one month away.  Please get real busy and promote it to everyone.  We will have tickets available at the July meeting for you to take and sell.  They are only $5.00 each.  Try to get a good breakfast for that price anywhere these days.

We also need everyone to help on the morning of August 2nd.  If you have worked before, you know that having plenty of workers means that no one has to be over worked (except for the cook, and he is paid).

We need workers to show up early; no later than 7:00am (6:45am might be better for a handful).  We will also need to stay just a bit late to make sure that everything is cleaned up.  Based on years past that was not a real problem because we stayed ahead of the mess through-out the morning.

This is actually a lot of fun.  Hope to see everyone there.

Saturday, August 2nd
workers: 7:00am - 10:00am
Applebee's - Hughes Rd, Madison

Coming Attractions (Events)

July

2-6 Wing-Ding – The biggest event of all GWRRA is in the south again this year.  This year marks 30 years of Wing-Ding celebrations.  I hope to see you there.

The first Tuesday after we get back from Wing-Ding is the 8th and it is our Chapter Meeting at Ryan’s on South Parkway.  It will be good to see everyone’s faces again.

Sunday, 13th we will visit Harmony Park Safari.  If you have never been to Harmony Park it is an experience that you will love.  This adventure REQUIRES CARS to experience.  This is not just a simple suggestion from me, but an absolute rule enforced at the park.  You will be driving through fields (on designated gravel roadways) with all manner of beasts roaming about.  Some of these beasts get up close and personal with your vehicle and if you are not fast on closing your window, they will get up close with you.  As an adult I really enjoyed it, but if you really want to have a good time grab up one of your grandkids or just some kids walking down the road and bring them along.  Watching the kids and their reactions makes it even more fun.

Saturday, 19th we will be hosting the District Traveling Plaque Gathering.  Tammy & Steven captured it when they accompanied Roy & Anita to the last Gathering hosted by Chapter-A near Mobile.  We will provide more details on the website as they become available.

Saturday, 26th we be the annual Jonathan Mays Memorial ride.

August

Saturday, 2nd we are having our big fundraiser for the Ride for Kids.  The pancake breakfast starts at 7:00am at the Applebee’s in Madison on Hughes Road.  It’s going to be a lot of fun and the more people that come, the more fun we will have.

Saturday, 9th is the District Picnic for North Alabama.  Remember that you pay $5.00 dollars per person, but the chapters get the money in return.

After the District Picnic is over don’t head for home too quickly.  If you do you will miss a whole lot of fun.  Bill Smith is putting on his Ride for Kids auction.  Talking about a wild and crazy event; Bill is an expert auctioneer whether he wants to admit or not.

As always, the most up-to-date schedule information can be found on the website – check it often.

John & Elizabeth Griswold

Rally Participation: Key to Motto
  - From the Membership Enhancement Coordinators

Anne and I attended the Missouri District Rally in May, what FUN. While we were there we made some new FRIENDS from Missouri, Arkansas, Iowa, and Kansas while playing one of their get acquainted games. The game consisted of a card with six spaces.  You needed to get a signature from six different people from other Districts (states). You could not get a signature from someone in your own District.  Since Anne and I were from Region-A and Missouri is in Region-E we had several people ask us to sign one of the game's "friend" cards.

I attended a seminar called "seasoned rider" to gain more information about SAFETY and KNOWLEDGE. The class performed a couple of practical exercises to demonstrate our eye-hand coordination, reflexes and reaction times. It was amazing. The best performance of anyone in the class was about the same as the worst results demonstrated by College Sophomores. If you get a chance, I strongly suggest you take this seminar.  It is different than the "mature rider" seminar. Anne and I also attended the "crash scene" seminar to gain more SAFETY and KNOWLEDGE.

Anne and I had so much FUN entering the Bike Show, Chapter Hat, and Chapter Banner contests. It was really great that we could represent Chapter-B, especially when they announced our names as 3^rd place winners for our Chapter Banner, and 2^nd place winners in the Chapter Hat competition and Bike Show.  I'd like to encourage everyone to enter the various competitions at each rally you attend.  It is part of the FUN and making FRIENDS for a lifetime.

"We are listening.  What is your solution?"

Dennis & Ann Greer

Riding in Alaska
  - From the Asst. Chapter Directors

Recently Lisa and I, along with John and Elizabeth Griswold, took a cruise to Alaska. This is an awesome experience. I highly recommend it. Alaska is a beautiful place; I really can't even find the words to describe it. While we were on the ship the scenery was amazing - snow covered mountains, glaciers, and wildlife. During the planning of our vacation John and Elizabeth suggested we rent some bikes and do some riding. So well in advance of our departure we had rented a couple of Harley Electric Glides from Alaska Tour Riders in Anchorage.

After a week on the ship, I think we were all ready to get on with the inland portion of the trip, I know I was. The scenery was even more spectacular up close. We eventually found ourselves in Fairbanks on a beautiful 70 deg. day with nothing planned. Lisa and I were on our way to the restaurant next to the motel to grab a bite to eat and happened to meet one of the owners of the local Harley dealership "The Outpost" (The farthest north Harley dealer). To make a long story short, in a couple of  hours, we were out exploring the roads around Fairbanks.

First we headed north. One of the guys at the Harley place had a friend that owned a lodge about 30 miles north of Fairbanks. Along the way we stopped at a roadside pull off to see a section of the Alaskan Pipeline.

As we were riding down the road we noticed a sign that said "Circle  120 miles". At first I had no idea where Circle was, then it came to me, the Arctic Circle. When we reached the lodge we learned that we were only about 80 miles or so from the Arctic Circle, but it would not be possible for us to go on the bikes we were on because the road changed to gravel in about 20 miles. This was kind of disappointing because how often are you that close to the Arctic Circle. We did however get to see a huge gold dredge that had not been out of operation that long. After a short visit with the owners of the lodge we were off to North Pole. North Pole is a little town about 15 or 20 miles southeast of Fairbanks that, from my understanding, changed their name in hopes of attracting a toy manufacturing company. I don't think it worked out, but it was still an interesting place to visit.

After a 12 hour trip on a train and a bus, thru what I can only describe as some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, we found ourselves in Anchorage on Saturday evening.  Our vacation was almost over.  Sunday had been planned for almost 6 months. We had made arrangements, as I mentioned earlier, to rent bikes and spend the day riding. We arrived at Alaska Tour Riders bright and early (the bright thing was no big deal because by 7:45 am the sun had been up for about 5 hours).  We decide to head south on Hwy 1down the Kenai Peninsula. After we were out of Anchorage it was absolutely beautiful. The road runs along the bottom of the mountains. On one side of the road there is water and the other there is mountains.  We thought we were pretty well prepared for riding. We took most of our riding gear to include heavy jackets and gloves. About an hour into the ride we found ourselves in a place called Turnagain Pass. The temperature had fallen from the upper 50's to about 40. We found a nice little place to stop and warm up.

About 2 hours later we found ourselves in Seward; a nice little port town on the Gulf of Alaska. We wondered around for while trying to take it all in. After a break for lunch  we decided to go to Exit Glacier Park. The park is about 8 miles off the main road. On our way in Lisa and I saw a Black Bear and started pointing at it, but John and Elizabeth thought we were pointing at the Glacier and missed it. After a short stay at the park it was time to head back toward Anchorage. We needed to be back by 5:30 and it was a 3 hour ride. That was probably the shortest 3 hours I've ever spent riding.

If you ever get the opportunity to go to Alaska and would like to ride, I would HIGHLY recommend both places we rented bikes from. The Outpost in Fairbanks (ask for Clark) and Alaska Tour Riders in Anchorage (ask for Nicole). Alaska is a beautiful place, and in my opinion even more beautiful to see on a motorcycle Lisa and I thank God every day for blessing us  with the ability and means to see this awesome world he has created, and for blessing us with such wonderful friends to share it with.

Marty & Lisa Knapp

Fire-Crackers 'R Us - July!
- From the Ride Coordinators

It's gettin' hot, folks!  Reckon?  It's so hot, who is gonna need a lighter to light up fireworks? Well, it's time to drag out some cool vests, make more frequent stops at Dairy Queen, yeahhhhhhh, that's what I'ma talkin' about!  Imagine that, Dairy Queen, it could save your life in this hot weather!!  Seriously, I speak from experience.  I had to stop at Dairy Queen / convenient store but I just bought some Gatorade which was the ticket to making me feel better (quicker than other stuff).  Yes, I know, I would LOVE to say that Dairy Queen ice cream is the ticket, but once you feel better, THEN YOU CAN HAVE SOME!!!!!  ;-)  You know you hear all this good advice and you know it is the right thing to do, but then you forget to practice using this good advice.  Well, that's what I did last weekend on our way home from Athens, Georgia (rally).  I got too hot and before I realized it, I was already a little spacey and had a horrible, horrible headache.  You MUST remember to keep fluids going in because believe me, they are coming out.  You may not realize how much you sweat, but your body sheds a lot more in extreme heat and with more activity, it increases.  There are some great products out there that can help.  There are all types of wicking clothing that helps hold moisture in and keeps you cool.  Lots of folks think that short sleeves are the way to go, but in essence, long sleeves are the ticket.  I wasn't a believer until I tried it.  The next best thing you need is lots of water and a little Gatorade or sport drinks to keep handy.  Be sure to eat properly.  We get lots of fluids through the foods we eat.  Fruits and veggies are ideal and are easy to carry as snacks.

We finished off May with an M-M-Good ride to Campbell Field Restaurant in Hayden, AL.  It was a very nice ride and then at the end of the month we had our usual Memorial Day Ride to visit our fallen members.  After visiting all but one of the gravesites which were spread all across the county, we made a decision to go off route for a little bit.  We ended up visiting one of our family members, Wayne, who has been out of pocket for a while due to health reasons.  Since Wayne doesn't get to ride with us too much lately, we decided to take the ride to them.  Wayne Davis and Jo live so far out in country that it will make you forget about city life for a while.  It is always so nice to go visit Wayne & Jo Ann.  They are the epitome of southern hospitality.  It feels like going home when you go hang out with the Davis'.  AND, the best part, well all of the parts are best, but my point is they always have a little ice cream to share.  It's so wonderful.  Country living, great friends, Miss Lucy and Ice Cream... it don't get much better than that!  It's the neatest site when we pull in with a bunch of motorcycles cause Miss Lucy goes ballistic... she has to run around and greet each bike as if they were family members and then she greets each person when they get off the bike.  Miss Lucy is a true blue Goldwinger if I ever saw one.  Now this day isn't over just yet... it was a nice long day.  We ended up at the Chapman's (Richard & Sue) and they had a BBQ to end the Memorial ride.  Richard can "burn" a mean hot dog.  I know I'm weird, but that was a good dog he grilled up just for me.  This topped off a truly great day.  And guess what, we had home-made ice cream.  Imagine that.  Lisa & Marty know how to "cook" up some ice cream.  Oh yeah, if you ever wonder how many Goldwingers it takes to put up an American flag, ask Steven & Roy.  It took more than 2 but with Steven and Roy, they just make it a lot more challenging.  True patriots they are.

We jump-started June with a Good Samaritan Ride in Winchester.  It was a very nice turnout.  It was hotter than Cooter Brown's skillet when you sat down in a seat but as long as we kept the bikes in the wind, it wasn't so bad.  Just ask Betty, she had a few "eeeeooo, owww's" for Cooter Brown.  I thought she was just happy to be riding!! Ha ha ha.  They fed us some good food and let us win some nice door prizes.  It was a blast.

Chapter meeting time was interesting this month.  We had no CDs or ACDs... guess they were out "chilling" in Alaska.  We had a good time in spite of their disappearance but we did miss them.  Richard made history.  He won membership a second month in a row.  However, he didn't even get to smell the money; now that he's married, Ms. Sue took over the money business... well!  she is a treasurer, right?  It sounds like a logical thing to do.  You all know what a softie Richard is, he's a good hubby.  He only flinched for a moment. 

We have new members, folks!!!  Well, they've been out of pocket for awhile, but you won't recognize them.  Hiram and Lisa Bass are back and boy are they looking goooooooooooood!  Lisa has a new look and it really becomes of her.  Hiram isn't looking too shabby either.  Both had big smiles.  It's great to see them again.  Just for coming back, we let Lisa win 50/25/25.  Ha ha.  Well, okay, I admit she's just really a lucky gal.  John and Barbara Jones are new members and they came out to join us.  They bought Jake's other trike.  They said they are enjoying themselves.  We look forward to seeing their wonderful smiling faces again.  If you see a red trike with an ice cream receptacle, its new owners are John & Barbara.  Say hello if you see them on the road.

After this reunion with Lisa and Hiram, I was hoping to see Rich & Nancy and Al & Sharon... where are U?  We missed you lately at the meetings.  As with rides, I know it is hard to make every meeting but we do miss you folks. 

As for as the rest of the chapter meeting all was well... until.... J-4-Genius nominations.  I JUST KNEW DON WATTS HAD IT WRAPPED UP!  Or EVEN OUR BELOVED JEFF BROWNBACK, but nooooooooooooooooooo, someone had to "get even" with me for turning him and Roy in for their "blooper"... thank you my kind, dear, sweet, loving, sneaky, Jenius husband.  Steven and Roy think I was pickin' on them... who would'a thunk it?  Not me!  Do you folks believe that crap?!  Me? Pick on Roy Fosnight aka District Daddy, and Steven Hollingsworth aka hubby... naaaaaaaaaa... not a chance.  {hold the laughter, cracks, jokes, smirks, I don't wanna see any milk out of the nose episodes} Maybe, just maybe, I like to pick a "little bit". {smirk}  Well, regardless, I want to rebut, picket and PROTEST... It's a conspiracy!!!  I should not have gotten a J-4-Genius award for... umm... for... (I can't remember... the laughter was so loud I can't think)... I just know that Don or Jeff had it wrapped up! Tight! 

Well, RIDE THERAPY sessions are still a go.  Anyone looking for a ride, you've come to the right place.  We've had quite a few impromptu night rides lately.  They have been wonderful.  Sometimes just a short quick ride will be just enough to complete your day right.  It doesn't matter when you go, just as long as you are riding.  Just ask Jake Lawyer and Ron Thomas.  Due to other calendar appointments, a lot of folks were gone during the time we had set for Russling to a Cave.  However, Jake and Ron took off and had themselves a nice ride.  Like I said, just as long as you are riding, you are doing alright.  Jake may never get his bike triked because we can't keep him off of the 2 wheels long enough.  I think when it is time to do the trike job, Jake will just be sitting on the bike while it is jacked up and pretend he's driving Deal's Gap or something.  I think he's practically become a Goldwing ornament.  He makes that brand new Goldwing look gooooooooooooood though.  It's good to have Ron riding with us again.  He had been working so much we rarely got to see him.  Retirement is good for him now.  I think if we could ever get Randy Harris retired or at a new job so he can ride again, we'd have pretty much the whole group back together. 

For a notable mention, we had an ERC and Trike Course class on 21 June.  They had a good turnout from what I hear.  However, the Trike Course class was cut a little short due to a sudden thunderstorm.  Shortly after that we were riding with some folks that took the course and they had a chance to practice their evasive maneuver skills.  These classes are really great and everyone needs to keep refreshed. 

Until next time... stay safe, stay alert, and ride like you mean it!  Have YOU ever seen a motorcycle parked in front of a psychiatrist's office?  I don't think so.  Well, have you ever seen a motorcycle parked in front of a Dairy Queen?  Most likely.  My advice is to look... you might find some of your friends there! 

Long live Goldwingers!

Remember...
Friends don't let friends ride Harleys
98% of all Harleys ever sold are still on the road...
The rest of them made it home.
"That sure is a pretty GoldWing."
It's not about the destination, it's about the journey.

Don't Worry (Chapter) "B" Happy
Steven & Tammy Hollingsworth
AL-B Couple of the Year,
Ride Coordinators, and
District Vendor Coordinators

July Journeys
- from the AL-B Couple of the Year

Well, I'm sitting in a chalet in Helen, GA... we had a wonderful day.  We had the absolute best lunch.  Oh my goodness... pastries, good fun... good friends... good weather.... I sure do miss all of my other friends.  I wish I could have brought the whole gang with us.  It's that time of the year and lots of things are going on.  We just got here this morning.  We departed about 90 miles West of Atlanta this morning.  We are on our way to Wing Ding via Mobile, Alabama and Helen, GA.... Like I said, it's not about the destination... it's about the journey.  Since we've became AL-B's Couple of the Year and we are planning to participate at Snowball in the Couple of the Year selection process, we have been inspired to go a lot more places and it has been absolutely wonderful.  Terry & Barbie (AL-N) District Couple have been running around a lot too.  They recently visited the Region N Rally.  They said it was an awesome rally.  It's so hard to get to all of the places you'd like to visit because unfortunately due to planning, calendars will cross from time to time.  It's good to know we got our folks traveling in different directions.  Terry & Barbie represent Alabama very well. If you have not had the honor of meeting Terry & Barbie, you need to get rollin'.  They are absolutely wonderful folks.  I promise they will have a big smile set aside just for YOU.  It sure will be hard to follow in their footsteps if Steven and I progress to the next level.  They truly have their heart into it and they meet no strangers.  This has been the best experience of my whole life.  I don't say that lightly.  Going to all of these different destinations, you get to meet so many nice folks.  It's the greatest thing.  It's fun too.  Never a dull moment.  There's always a place to go and things to do.

Sometimes you even meet your distant friends in common places.  We ran upon Bill & Cindy and Dennis & Donna from AL-A in Fort Payne, AL when we were on our way to Georgia's rally.  They were headed to way up North to pick up a trailer.  Georgia rally was a total blast.  Believe it or not, with a team effort they were able to get Roy in a toga!!! Yes, Roy Fosnight swore to never wear a toga, but his luck ran out.  He was a sight for sore eyes... my eyes are still sore... from crying so hard while laughing.  It was fun.  I've also discovered a hidden talent... I've joined along with Anita (first-timers) the Sugar Wing Chicks group.  We performed at the talent show.  Needless to say, it was quite an experience.  I showed more than my talent but for an initiation performance, I think I did quite well.  I did not pass out from terror of being in front of so many people.  It was a crowded room.  The participation was phenomenal both for the talent competition and the audience.  The other gals that performed with Anita and I was Trina aka "Sugar", Lyn Edwards, and Linda Teasley.  Those gals made us look gooooooooooooood.  They were dressed to a "T" and they are well on their way to being America's next Idol contestants.  Gayle and Robert Brown arrived and looked like Royalty.  They were sharper than acupuncture needles.  They arrived in some beautiful togas.  I didn't know whether to bow or hug them when I saw them.  They were grand and gorgeous.  Athens, Georgia was the place to be that weekend.

Just before GA's rally, we had our South District Picnic.  Great turn-out!  A big thanks to Chapter L for grilling burgers for us.  It was a terribly warm day and they worked so hard and diligently under that extra heat to fix us burgers.  We are very grateful for you.  Thanks again!  Just shortly after, we were present for the introduction of a new chapter, AL-W, the Bay Wings of Mobile County.  If you see a dragon on the road... no fear... it's AL-W... they don't breathe fire or anything... I bet they keep the fire cooled down with Dairy Queen ice cream... reckon'?  Ice Cream saves lives and puts out fires.  I don't need those excuses though... Dairy Queen is just royalty and a queen needs to have her followers.  I'm there for her!  Again, welcome AL-W.

On our detour to Wing Ding, we had the pleasure of hanging out with Alabama A for a bit while we were in Mobile.  They took us to Ed's Seafood Shack... OH MY GOODNESS... the shrimp are not "shrimps" there... they are HUGE... and oh my goodness they are so delicious.  We had a nice group.  It was Roy, Anita (District Dad & Mom), Dennis & Donna and their son, Sonny & Sandra, Jim & Karen, and Bill & Cindy and us of course.  If you have never met Dennis, he can tell you a good story about running over a gator... up North, we think about destroyed tires in the road, but Dennis ran over a live gator... if he had a little dipping sauce, he could have fired up a grill and had some good appetizers, but it took him and Donna a little bit to recover from the shock.  That was a while back when this happened, but while we are in Mobile, we always keep one eye peeled for gators and one eye peeled for Alligators!  Cindy joined Roy & Anita and Steven & I the next morning to go letterboxing.  After a great breakfast at "Spot of Tea", we headed out to letterbox.  We ended up at a restaurant called LuLu's in Gulf Shores.  It was a neat place.  There were suppose to be two boxes there, but only one could we find.  We had a nice cool drink before departing separate ways.  Thanks to Lisa Knapp, Anita & I are always "huntin' treasures" and now we may have recruited a new letterboxer.  From there, we took a Ferry ride to Dauphin Island.  It was a crowded ferry but it was fun.  We arrived at the Catfish Junction (Saraland, AL) in record time.  Steven & I being the only ones from AL-B were able to capture the traveling plaque.  I was so excited, I didn't even bother to go outside and get Steven (smoking) so I just took the pictures.  It was fun.  However, we did break out the cameras for Steven to have a photo opportunity.  I guess fair is fair.  Ha ha.  We hung out with some nice folks (and ate more good shrimp).  We had a good crowd... Bill & Cindy, Jim & Karen, Terry & Barbie, Max, Loyd & Linda, Sonny & Sandra, Margaret and I'm sorry I forgot someone's name.  Hey, I think I was doing good to remember as many as I did.  Freddie Wheeler was there too.  There may have been more but like I said, I was just so excited.  I'm sorry if I missed anyone; it was not intentional. 

One more day left for June and the adventure continues.  Stay tuned till next month and get the rest of the scoop.  By then, we will have eaten more good German food, hopefully found some letterboxes tomorrow, and make a trip to Greenville, SC for a Wing Ding fling!   

Just a note:  Ride For Kids event is nearing the corner... keep your ears open for announcements and keep your heart open to help a kid in need.  We need your help more than ever.  We are so close to a cure.  We are saving kids everyday but we are still losing some... that's unacceptable.  We can change it, folks!  We can make a difference... one ride at a time. 

Don't forget to keep Julianna & Mickey Polka in your prayers.  Julianna is still fighting to recover from her accident.  She's still at Mission Memorial Hospital in Asheville, NC where she will remain for quite awhile.  Keep the cards and emails coming.  She really needs your support; all of the good cheer and cards will help her keep her spirits up. 

As a good friend always says... "Freedom Isn't Free"... support your country, the soldiers and be patriotic... red, white & blue looks good on you!!!  Fly your flags and show your patriotism.  Our country is a great country; let's keep it that way.  Happy Fourth of July!  Let the fireworks fly! God Bless.

Till next time ... don't miss a good opportunity to make a new friend and hug your old friends often.

Don't Worry (Chapter) "B" Happy
Steven & Tammy Hollingsworth
AL-B Couple of the Year,
Ride Coordinators, and
District Vendor Coordinators

Vendor Venues
  -- From the Vendor Coordinators

Are you looking for a good rally?  We have a venue reserved just for you in Pelham, Alabama.  Well, it's just coming up on July but the planning stages have been in motion for a while now.  We are planning a down home southern hospitality agenda for the Alabama District Rally that we hope you will never forget.  It seems like a long time away, but it's just about around the corner (or the next bend as Roy tells me) so we are planning and planning.  As always, a successfully rally is one that is planned well.  We hope to cover everything that needs to be done that will make Goldwingers feel like they've experienced some real hospitality when they attend our rally.  Roy only asks one thing from everyone....."just bring the manners that your mama taught ya"...and we'll take care of everything else.  If everything works as we plan, we've got some nice things in store for you.  What you can help us with is just find a District staff member and ask them for a rally flyer.  Fill it out and send your money to our treasurer, Sue Chapman, and it will be a good start for a good rally.  If we know you're coming, then we can make sure we have plenty of down-home refreshments and fun waiting on you.  We hope to see all of you "come callin'" at our rally next year.  We would really love to have you.  It'd be a great opportunity for friends to get back together again. 

Don't Worry (Chapter) "B" Happy
Steven & Tammy Hollingsworth
AL-B Couple of the Year, and
District Vendor Coordinators

Health Watch / Prayer Concerns

Julianna Polka

For those that have not already heard, Julianna Polka (now with Chapter-H) had a very, very serious accident.  She ran into a guard rail in the mountains of North Carolina.  She has suffered very serious head, neck and back trauma.  It is unknown at this point how much she will recover.  Much of that may be up to you and your prayers for her healing as they are desperately needed.

Wayne Davis

Please continue keeping Wayne in your thoughts and prayers as he recovers from his operation where they had to remove his toe.

Serving for Freedom

Atticus "Daniel" Fisher

SPC Fisher, Atticus Daniel
TF Eagle Assault
HHC 5-101 AVN
APO, AE 09355

Serving in Kandahar, Afghanistan

Tammy Hollingsworth's brother

Heather Knapp

Air Force
Serving in South Korea

Marty & Lisa Knapp's daughter

Richard L. Follett II

Chief Master Sergeant
USAF

Rick is serving a tour in Kabul, Afghanistan training the government how to defend itself.
He is normally stationed at the Pentagon in Washington, DC.

20 Ways To Determine if you are a real Alabamian

1. You can properly pronounce Arab, Cahaba, Opelika , Sylacauga, Oneonta, Eufaula, and Wedowee.
2. You think people who complain about the heat in their states are sissies.
3. A tornado warning siren is your signal to go out in the yard and look for a funnel.
4. You know that the true value of a parking space is not determined by the distance to the door, but by the availability of shade.
5. Stores don't have bags or shopping carts, they have sacks and buggies.
6. You've seen people wear bib overalls at funerals.
7. You think everyone from a bigger city has an accent.
8. You measure distance in minutes. (It's about 5 minutes down the road)
9. You go to the lake because you think it is like going to the ocean.
10. You listen to the weather forecast before picking out an outfit.
11. You know cowpies are not made of beef.
12. Someone you know has used a football schedule to plan their wedding date.
13. You have known someone who has a belt buckle bigger than your fist.
14. You aren't surprised to find movie rental, ammunition, beer, and bait all in the same store.
15. A Mercedes Benz isn't a status symbol. A Ford F-350 4x4 Extended Bed Crew Cab dually is.
16. You know everything goes better with Ranch Dressing, or Ketchup.
17. You learned how to shoot a gun before you learned how to multiply.
18. You actually get these jokes and are 'fixin' to send them to your friends.
19. You have used your heater and air-conditioner in the same day.
    
    
    Finally: You are 100% Alabamian if you have ever had this conversation:
20. 'You wanna coke?'  'Yeah.'  'What kind?'  'Dr Pepper.'

July 2008 District News
  -- From the District Director

Happy 4th of July one and all. What a wonderful country we live and play in. I often think about the great people who have brought us to where we are and the regular people who have given all so we could enjoy the freedoms available to us. I wear a patch on my vest that says "All gave some, some gave all". Please take a few minutes to thank all the folks who have helped preserve and protect this great nation. God Bless America

Let's start off with the South Picnic; we had 12 Chapters and 117 people. Thank you Bruce and Gail and all of  Chapter L for bringing the grill, sweating, and best of all, for cooking some great hamburgers and hot dogs. We learned not to let some people play with sharp objects, I almost ran out of band aids. We gave away door prizes, along with food and extra drinks; the trailer was 200 lbs lighter on the way back home. Two lucky people won $121.50 each. The Traveling Plaque was captured by AL A with 4416 miles. It will be up for grabs 28 Jun in Saraland. We hope to see as many as can make it there to get it.

We also did the paperwork for a new chapter, welcome aboard Chapter W, Bay Wings, in Mobile County.

We did the Good Samaritan Ride with a lot of our friends in Tennessee. This is a ride for those who can't. It was started 11 years ago and we have missed riding it 2 years because of illness. This ride raises money for scholarships and for people who need temporary help. It is a community ride that brings together all bike riders for a common good.

We left Thursday 12 Jun for the GA Rally in Athens. We stopped in FT Payne for breakfast and gas. When we got back on the road we heard some familiar voices and then saw two wings coming towards us. The next thing we heard was "Is that you Roy". It was Dennis and Donna Bowman and Bill and Cindy Long from Chapter A on their way to OHIO pick up a new YELLOW Hummer trailer for Bill and Cindy to pull with their trike. It is a nice feeling to run into fellow wingers when you least expect it.
The GA Staff and especially Bill and Betty (Betsy) Livingston, put on a really fun time for all. Betty even got me in a Toga!!!

Alabama had a really good showing:

Largest District outside GA
Largest Chapter outside GA  (AL-B)
Youngest Rider
Oldest Female
3 plaques in the Toga contest
1 in the Dance contest
2 in the bike show
Chapter Banner AL B
2 Grand Prizes

Thanks again to GA GWRRA for a really wonderful time.

Wing Ding is right around the corner and we can still use some help. If you are wandering around Thursday at Wing Ding, come by ticket sales and check to see if we need help, if nothing else, come by to say Hi.

It is getting to be time to start working on the Rally Pin design for 2009. Theme of our rally is Southern Hospitality.  It should have "GWRRA" in the design. It should include " 2009 Alabama Southern Hospitality Rally, Pelham, AL March 26 -28, 2009". We will accept designs until November 20, 2008.

Please remember that Freedom isn't Free and remember our folks who are in Harm's Way, be they Military, Law Enforcement, EMTs or Firemen.

The next time you think about going riding, call a friend; they are probably thinking the same thing.

Roy & Anita Fosnight Please Ride Safe and Often

FUN -- SAFETY -- KNOWLEDGE
  -- From the Assistant District Director

FUN -- SAFETY -- KNOWLEDGE

What do these words mean to you?  If you ask 10 people you would get 10 different answers.  We thought that over our next three articles we would give you something to think about and ponder over when you see or hear these words in relationship to GWRRA.

FUN:  We all need to remember that one members fun may not be another members fun.  I will put GWs members up against any group in a FUN contest, if you don't believe it.. just go to a Rally talent contest.  We spend a lot of money buying and fixing up our Wings, this is our relaxation, just as fishermen buy boats, golfers buy clubs and carts.  Fun is different for all.  Sometimes we forget that we may all be wingers and enjoy riding, but we still have differences.  This is not a bad thing.. it would get pretty boring if we were all alike, people are just different.  Some members go to rallies just for the vendors, while others never step foot into the vendor lot due to contest and seminar participation.  Some people like to ride with a group to a destination and some might like to ride alone or with one more bike.  The point is, this is not any ones job, it is our joy, SO HAVE FUN.  When it stops being FUN, people will stop doing it and find something else. A good way to get the most out of your Chapter or Group is to just show up, enjoy every ones company and do the things you enjoy doing and don't do anything that you do not enjoy doing. You know there may have been something to that saying Live and Let live.

The more you know, the better it gets.

Robert & Gail Brown

Recruiting Recognition Programs
  -- Membership Enhancement Coordinators

Recruits are based on headcount.  The Friend-Finder Member will receive credit for the number of actual people recruited.  When a Member recruits a family of six, the count that is recorded is six. 

Find-A-Friend (1-25)

To qualify for this level a Member must have from 1 to 25 new GWRRA Members recorded by the GWRRA Home Office in his or her own name.  Members are awarded hanger bars for each additional member recruited.

Hall of Honor (26-100)

To qualify for this level, a Member must have from 26 to 100 new GWRRA Members recorded by the GWRRA Home Office in his or her own name.  As each Member newly achieves the Hall of Honor status, he or she will receive a congratulatory phone call from his or her Regional Director and /or District Director, a letter from the Home Office including a special certificate and a special new pin.  Your name will be listed in Wing World and on the GWRRA web site.  Special hanger bars are presented for recruiting 50 and 100 new GWRRA Members. 

Hall of Fame (101 & over)

To qualify for this level, a Member must have more than 100 new GWRRA Members recorded by the GWRRA Home Office in his or her own name.  When a Member achieves the Hall of Fame status, he or she will receive a congratulatory phone call from GWRRA's Executive Director and his or her Regional Director, a Hall of Fame jacket and a special pin & patch.  The Member's name & photo will become a permanent part in the Hall of Fame gallery at the Home Office.  Your name will appear in Wing World and on the GWRRA web site.

Happy Recruiting,

Dewey & Alice Cole

July 2008 -  AL-B Ride Schedule

• Unless otherwise indicated, all rides will leave from the ride meeting place at scheduled time.
• As a courtesy to all members, it is important to be ready to leave at the departure time.
• All bikes should be fueled and bladders emptied ahead of time.
• We plan a variety of rides.  Time and money might make it hard to make all events.  We hope this variety will give you an opportunity to pick and choose, and at least enjoy some of them.
• If the weather is bad--come in your car.
• If you have a CB, you will find us on Channel 1 (unless noted otherwise by the ride leader).

• We need your ride suggestions!!
• We need any and all of your ideas!!
• You can be part of the Ride Committee!!
• If you want to help...
  Please e-mail us at Rid eCoo rdin ator

July - 2008

August - 2008