Chapter B Congratulates 4 of Our OwnFirst, we thank Jim Robinson for all of his hard work. Special congratulations to Jim for earning his Master Trainer Certificate which was presented by Mike Stiger, the National Director for Rider Education. A very Special congratulation to Richard Chapman, Gregg Dempsey and Steven Hollingsworth for becoming ARC (Advanced Rider Course) Instructors. All worked very hard this summer and when you see them please let them know that you appreciate them. We also congratulate Chapter H's own Carl Breeding and TN-Y's John Moran for also achieving their ARC Instructor certification. Special Thanks to All,
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| Richard & Sue Chapman |
Educator Notes
-- From the Chapter Rider Educators
30 August 2009: A day in history.
Sunday, 30 August, Alabama put on its first Advanced Riders Course (ARC) class. The attendees had around 3 hours of classroom instruction by some very educated instructors-to-be. Range time for them was about 5 hours. The weather was just right; not too hot, and best of all...not raining!
For those of you that don't know, an ARC is quite challenging. Not only is it challenging for a student, it is challenging for a new instructor. I had the privilege of being present during some of their training sessions, and I might add I was very impressed. Renee Dempsey and I humbly agreed to be guinea-pig students so that our husbands could practice with live bodies. (watch it! don't let your mind drift into the gutter) Would you believe, Renee and I are so smart now...we are so smart and we didn't stay in a Holiday Inn Express but we are so smart, I think we could ride a two-wheel bike now. Granted, the guys would NOT let us attempt no matter how our confidence had taken flight. They did their jobs -- they ensured we were educated and safe (kept us off the two-wheels). So what is an ARC? It's a course that challenges you with maneuvers that you could very well encounter in day-to-day riding. It's not just all about a leisurely stroll around the countryside, it's about what to do with things that are around the next bend (in the countryside). It's about training your mind and body to react with your Goldwing in a way that you can avoid some major mishaps. It's about becoming more aware of the skills you have and can develop and what a magnificent machine these Goldwings are. They are very capable of doing some really cool things; the drivers may be just a little hesitate as to what the limitations are; nonetheless the Goldwings are extremely qualified machines. If you don't believe me, just check out some drill teams at Wing Ding sometime. Those bikes are incredible.....their drivers just happen to have their skills sharpened quite a bit. So, basically that's what this ARC was about...sharpening your skills a little more. Granted, not many of the folks are ready for Drill Team training...well, at least they didn't share that desire with me. Who knows, Terry Cleveland who thinks he's Elvis, might just feel like he can do some Drill Team maneuvers. From what I understand, this class was to teach you how to challenge yourself but to understand your limitations at the same time. The ARC is GWRRA's version of the MSF's Experienced Rider Course (ERC). Well, challenging as it was, no one dropped their bike. They were as graceful as ballerinas on a dance floor. The instructors were looking pretty sharp too; I think they knew what they were talking about - it sure seemed like it.
Well, obviously they did cause they got some really cools cards presented to them showing that they were official ARC coaches now. Congratulations to the 5 new instructors: Steven Hollingsworth (AL-B), Richard Chapman (AL-B), Greg Dempsey (AL-B), Carl Breeding (AL-H), and John Moran (TN-Y). Great job guys! Another big congratulations goes out to Jim Robinson who was presented with his Master Trainer Certificate.
For the students who completed the course, congrats! There were 11 bikes and 12 students...Darryl & Jane, Stacey Ashby, Marty Knapp, Terry Cleveland, Lynn Edwards, Lee Edwards, Bryan White, Robert Brown, and two other fellas that I didn't catch their names. Sorry. I'll have a correction in next month's newsletter. I hate that I didn't get their names. Everyone scattered so fast, it's hard to socialize with that many people!!
All of this training was done under some professional eyes: Mike Stiger, the National Director for Rider Education along with his lovely wife, Lori who was RVing while he was assisting in the training process. They came all the way down from Pleasant Lake, MI. Next in line was the Southeast Region A, Regional Educator, Chuck Reed who came over from Augusta, GA, then we had our District Ride Educator, Jim Robinson from Guntersville, AL. The instructors in training were all ride educators or prior ride educators, with one exception who was Greg Dempsey. He told me later, off to the side, that he had big dreams to grow up to be just like those guys. He said taking this course to become an instructor was just baby steps into fulfilling his dream. He almost couldn't contain his excitement. To quote Greg, he said "one small step for a chapter member, one giant leap for Goldwingers". Okay, he didn't say that but he looked like he was about to say that! ;-)
Nonetheless, what these fellas achieved was great for them and great for GWRRA. Alabama had it's first ARC class. The sky's the limits - Rider Education will never be the same.
A big holler out to Kay Leonard for coming by for a visit and dropping off a beautiful congratulatory cake for the Rider Education group.
Meanwhile, over at the Knapp's residence, Lisa was hosting an Oyster party...
No, no, no... they weren't eating oysters; they were opening oysters to discover PEARLS. Yes, it was a Vantel pearl party. With delight each of the girls opened an oyster to find their very own treasure. Betty Werman found twin pearls....a rarity. She's going to be soon sporting some very pretty earrings. Keep your eyes pealed. While the guys were over there getting educated, the gals were discovering fortunes beyond their dreams. Giddy with their finds, the gals took time out to meet with the guys afterwards for a celebratory dinner. The girls wanted to go to an oyster bar, but the guys were content with Mexican. Go figure!!
Photos by Tammy Hollingsworth
Steven & Tammy Hollingsworth
Rides & Fun
-- From the Chapter Rider Coordinators
Well, helllllllllllooooooooo, Chapter B. How'ya doing? I'm fine and dandy; Steven is too; I just baked him an apple pie and served it up with some vanilla ice cream. Life is good.
Well, some of you may dread reading my articles because they are so dog-gone long but this one in particular will be a short one cause you see, not much has happened in the last month that I've been a part of. I know that's hard to believe. Steven's been a part of some activities but for some reason I've managed to miss out on all of the fun, therefore, I cannot report anything. Steven's not one to elaborate a great deal so you are gonna have some easy reading this month. Don't expect it next month though. I guess we've just been busy and had a lot going on and couldn't be a part of some activities. That happens sometimes. Although we want to attend every ride and be a part of every event, it's just not possible all the time. I will say this, we sure have missed ya'll. It's been lonely. We've managed to catch up with a few people such as at the hospital (like Mike Chapman)....I don't like finding my friends in the hospital. I'd much rather catch them at a Dairy Queen or something.
Member Memories: Greg Dempsey gives Renee a Goldwing Trike for their Anniversary -- 25 July
Attendees: Some Chapter B members and Greg & Renee Dempsey
You know you are in a Goldwing association when you give your wife parts for a bike for your anniversary; you really know when you are in a GW organization when you give her a trike for her anniversary. Well, that's exactly what Greg did. At first Renee was thinking, why is so many people around for our Anniversary. She figured Greg might take her out for a romantic dinner or something. So all these people show up and Greg gives her a box.
Later he gives her some keys to her new trike. Well, she's thinking this is a mean joke because their plans were to wait awhile to get a trike. Then she finally realizes, it ain't a joke; it's for real. Now, the situation changes. Renee is ecstatic. Greg is thinking, "wow, I've really got brownie points for this act of kindness". After everyone leaves, well practically everyone, Greg & Renee hop on her new trike. Renee already had a list of things she "needed" for her bike. It was then that Greg realized that the cheap part of the present was the trike. The rest of the accessories were gonna cost him. He also realized that he'd been married to this wonderful woman for many years and she was just simply worth it. Off to the side, I heard Greg say, "I'm sure glad Renee got a trike, I've been wanting to get one for myself but couldn't justify it since I already had a bike" Well, all we know is Chapter B will never "bee" the same...it's a new buzz. I think all of the women should end up with a trike sooner or later...whatdda ya think?
Member Memories: Kevin & Darlene Kennemer pick up their NEW Goldwing, Lake Hill Motors in Corinth, MS -- 1 August
Attendees: Steven Hollingsworth & Kevin Kennemer (bike), Tammy Hollingsworth & Darlene Kennemer (trike)
Return trip back home: Kevin & Darlene Kennemer (new bike)
It turned out to be a good day. There were ominous clouds lurking in our peripheral visions, but the Kennemers were giddy with excitement so much that they didn't even notice. We were very excited for them but we noticed. It seems that anytime someone goes to buy a Goldwing, it rains...I know there has to be some exceptions to that rule, but thus far in our travels, we've always seen rain.
Kevin was so excited that he didn't even care if he got picked on for riding "b--backseat" with Steven. I offered to let him ride with me but he said he and Steven would be able to find more to talk such as wheels / tires. GO FIGURE! Darlene and I agreed.
We made it to Corinth with no issues, but as we got inside the store, shortly thereafter, the sky fell. Liquid sunshine adorned the asphalt but we didn't care, we were inside already. Question was -- would it stop before we had to depart back home. Well, it didn't but Kevin is getting very skilled in handling a Goldwing and he made it look effortless. Darlene continued to ride with me until Kevin had a few miles under his belt to feel comfortable enough to let her on. Somewhere on the Alabama side we found the radiating sunshine with dull, dry asphalt. By now, Kevin is ready and Darlene is saying "it's about time!" I want to ride my new bike too!
Chapter Ride Report: Morning ride over to Blue Knights Poker Run, Madison, AL -- 15 August
Attendees: Steven Hollingsworth (bike), Greg Dempsey (bike), and Hiram Bass (bike)
Arriving later: Roy & Anita Fosnight (bike)
Guess it was one of those days when folks were going into all different directions. Greg & Steven were the only two that made it to breakfast to depart over to Madison for the poker run. Hiram met them over at the event. From what I understand, the poker run was a real success. Roy & Anita showed up a little later and played a poker hand or two. They were on their way down the Chapter D. So, it sounded like the three guys had a good time. As for Roy & Anita, I know they had fun....they got to ride farther!!
Afternoon Ride to Lynchburg, Lynchburg, TN -- 15 August
Attendees: Not sure but I think it was Marty Knapp, new members, Darryl & Jane, and maybe another couple. From what I understand, Darryl had only had his Goldwing for a few weeks, and he called Marty up to have some company so he could venture out on his wing. They ended up getting to the departure site a little late but I heard they went up to Lynchburg and they ended up putting quite a few miles on his new bike that day. I sure hate that I missed Lynchburg on a Saturday. There are some shops up there that are only open on Saturday and not Sunday, so I was looking forward to going but I had gotten sick so I had to stay home for both events. I was so envious of the guys but I'm glad that everyone seemed to have fun.....and without me! Can you imagine that!? I know, I know....it is fun with me around but there's no sense in letting a good day of riding go to waste just because I can't make it or anyone else for that matter.
AL-G Fun day in support of Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation, Andalusia, AL -- 21 August
Attendees: Sue Chapman and Anita Fosnight, picking up Stacey Ashby (AL-X) on the way down.
Again, I missed a good time. I had gotten sick during this time but I didn't go because I had some things to tend to since I'm usually always gone on rides or trips. Sometimes we have to stop and take care of our old life. I know I got a text message from Sue indicating that she had a dilemma....crab, shrimp, mahi-mahi, or some other seafood.....she couldn't make her mind up. I think she wanted me to feel sorry for her, but I just couldn't find it in my heart to. I was very envious because I knew what I would have had....SHRIMP!!! I'm glad they missed any major storms and hurricanes and had a good time at the beach....oh didn't I tell ya?.....when the event was over in Andalusia, AL, they found it in their hearts to make it down to Destin, FL....imagine that. Well, I hope that things start to look up for us soon. I really miss riding with the chapter or anybody for that matter. I guess till the next ride, I'll just keep riding into work and make my co-workers jealous that I'm even getting to ride on a nice day. My friend Bill, went out to his corvette the other day and put his top down. I think he was showing out. Of course, I had to wink at him when I went & hopped on my "convertible"--wing that is. Thing is, Bill knows. He completely understands me. He has a Harley and a Chopper. He fully understands toys and bikes.
It's a shame that folks that don't get to enjoy a good bike ride and they don't even know what they are missing.
So, spread the word to everyone...bike riders or not....if you are going for a ride, invite someone....you never know, they might be sitting around wishing they had someone to ride with too.
Okay, okay....so my short article is longer some folks. I simply can't help myself.
"Enjoy the glory; it could be gone tomorrow"
Quote by Tammy Hollingsworth
| Logo by Tammy Hollingsworth |
Long live Goldwingers! Roll Out Goldwingers!
It's not about the destination, it's about the journey.
Aspire to inspire before you expire.
Don't Worry (Chapter) "B" Happy
Steven & Tammy Hollingsworth
"Shake Your Tail Feathers!"
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Steven & Tammy Hollingsworth
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
Richard L. Follett II
- Air Force
- Chief Master Sergeant
- Pentagon, Washington, DC
- Rich & Nancy Follett's son
Heather Knapp
- Air Force
- Ramstien Airbase in Germany
- Marty & Lisa Knapp's daughter
Randall Southerland
- Army
- We will get you details about his assignment as soon as we can
Region-A Rally 2009
2010 Alabama Disctrict Rally Pin Contest
- Due November 15, 2009
Requirements for the Rally Pin Design:
- GWRRA or Gold Wing Road Riders Association
- 2010 Alabama District Rally
- Huntsville, AL
- April 1-3
Remember the Theme for the 2010 Alabama District Rally is "2010: A Wing Odyssey".
You may submit as many entries as you like and as often as you like. We will accept designs until November 15th, 2009.
Please send entries to Roy Fosnight (Dir ecto r*Al abam a-gw rra:org)
Alabama District Rally 2010
District News
-- District Director
I know that Fall is right around the corner, I hope we all don't melt before it gets here. We have been to a few activities this month and as usual we have had lots of fun.
Our North picnic was a huge SUCCESS. We had 171 members attend from 15 chapters. We just about ran out of FOOD!!! While playing a chapter completion game, a couple from Chapter T fell while playing; so we suspended the door prize give away. The door prizes that were left, we will give away at Snowball.
We went to the Region A plaque grab in Oxford, Chapter D had the plaque, and 170 members showed up from AL, GA, MS and FL. The only District missing was SC, we also had a couple from TN. Chapter D did a really great job of hosting this. The 50/25/25 was $167.00 twice and as usual, we were not even close to the winning numbers.
Afterwards, we went with Robert and Gail to meet Chapter Y for dinner at the Top of the River in Gadsden, good food, good friends always equals a good time. Chapter Y does a 50/50 any time they are on a ride. We did not win anything again, for me that is usual but Anita normally wins something, this time all she got to take home was me, I know, I am the Booby Prize.
The Region A rally is just around the corner and I am getting really anxious to go, come and help us cheer on Steven and Tammy Hollingsworth (our 2009 District Couple) in the Region A Couple Of the Year Selection. We could also use some help with Vendor Security, Lighted Bike Parade, and the Bike Show. If you are interested in helping with any of these please, let Robert and Gail or Ron and Corky know.
If any CD's are stepping down in December, please let us know by 1 December; so we can help your replacement with the paperwork before Snowball.
Requirements for the Rally Pin Design:
- GWRRA or Gold Wing Road Riders Association
- 2010 Alabama District Rally
- Huntsville, AL
- April 1-3
Remember the Theme for the 2010 Alabama District Rally is "2010: A Wing Odyssey".
You may submit as many entries as you like and as often as you like. We will accept designs until November 15th, 2009. Please send entries to us.
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 riding, call a friend, they are probably thinking the same thing.
| Roy & Anita Fosnight Please Ride Safe and Often Dir ecto r*Al abam a-gw rra:org |
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District News
-- Assistant District Director - Central
Man... just think we are about to start Month #9 of the year 2009.. Where has all the time gone? We do have a couple of events left that we need to mention. First the Region A rally will be held in Dothan at the Holiday Inn on Sept. 10-12. We had a wonderful time there last year and I am sure it will be just as great this year.
The Mississippi Rally will be at a new site next month in Tupelo, MS.. Can't wait to see what the new venue brings..
2010 will bring some new venues for the District of Alabama. We will be taking the Snowball Rally back to Prattville in Jan. It will be at the Doster Community Center on Saturday January 9th. We should have plenty of room for all the activities. If you need a hotel room, we have made arrangements with the Holiday Inn in Prattville right off of the Prattville exit on I-65. The rooms are $75.00 a night plus tax. To get this rate you must call M-F and speak with Sandy Little and tell her that it is for the GOLDWING Block. The phone number is 334-285-3420. To get this special rate you must make reservations by December 17th 2009.
With the end of the year also brings about change in Chapter officers. We would like to have as much of the paperwork completed prior to the first of the year. We would like for any Chapter Director that will be having a change in Staff to please let Roy, Ron or myself know so we can help you get things in order before the first of the year.
We will have a new venue for the 2010 District Rally.. Huntsville Alabama...Think SPACE... we have the entire Marriott right there at the Space and Rocket center... can't wait.
Get out and enjoy the great Fall riding weather, we will see you down the road.
| Robert & Gail Brown The more you know the better it gets Ass tDir ecto r-Ce ntra l*Al abam a-gw rra:org |
Thank You!
I would like to take a moment to congratulate and also thank Jim Robinson and his 5 new ARC instructors for a job well done.
On Sunday August 30, 2009 Alabama had its' first Advances Riders Course. It is a two part class. First part is classroom for about 3 hours and range instruction for 5 hours. The range is educational as well as challenging.
Before the class started, Mike Stiger, the National Director for Rider Education, presented Jim with his Master Trainer Certificate. Congratulations and thanks for your dedication to Rider Education.
We also had 5 new instructors presenting the class. They were Steve Hollingsworth, Gregg Dempsey and Richard Chapman all from AL-B, Carl Breeding from AL-H and John Moran TN-Y. Thanks for your time and efforts.
There were 11 bikes and 12 students taking part in this class. I want to report that everyone had a good time; learned plenty and not one bike was dropped all day.
Once again congratulations and "Thank You" for your time and dedication to Rider Education.
Robert Brown
Alabama Assistant District Director- Central Alabama
District News
-- Assistant District Director - South
Hello Fellow Wingers;
It has been a slow month compared to last month when we last wrote ya's. We did attend the Northern Picnic at Tannehill State Park. And as usual, it went over great. The swamp coolers, food, and people were all memorable.
But, this month I feel the need to talk about tire pressure monitoring kits. How many of you out there have had a tire problem recently? I know I had a flat back tire that had to be replaced. Corky had a flat front tire in Oklahoma at the Wing Ding this year. Our District Director had a rear tire problem. Now our very dear friends Freida and Chase Estes have had a crash because of a rear tire going flat. As you know, a flat tire "IS" very dangerous. Not too many of us have had the opportunity to handle a flat tire of any kind. It is not the kind of thing you go out and practice every day, ya know? So when, and if, it happens we have no real training to guide us.
I have given those tire pressure indicator things a thought or two in the past but couldn't get past the cost of them. Admittedly, I don't know much about them, except that they just may help us with this problem. All of the tire problems I've heard of recently have been in the field of going flat, not blowing out. And there does seem to be a lot of them out there. So, even a few minutes warning would be enough, especially at 70 MPH. I've heard that it's expensive to purchase the kit, and costly to have them installed too. While at the Wing Ding, we found a kit that just needs to have the transmitters installed to the valve stems, the indicator in the dash someplace and away ya go. But we had spent soooo much money already and had to get to California and back so we didn't purchase them, even though we had had a flat tire already. Go figure?
The next time you see Corky and me on our rides, you can bet we will have a kit installed, or at least one on order, no matter the price. Shoot, we all pay hundreds of dollars for lighting kits that only make our rides look pretty. Why not pay the same amount to get something that just may save our lives? I have surfed the web and found only two different manufacturers of tire pressure kits. One by Duran and one by TireGard. Both make a kit for trikes as well as for two wheelers. The reviews for Duran are impressive and the costs are about $50.00 higher than TireGard. Not too many people liked the TireGard. Duran can be installed either inside the tire or on the valve stems. I have found both to be offered by Wing Stuff and Show Chrome with prices about the same.
I'm curious. How many of you out there have the tire pressure kits installed and have a story that end well to tell us or not so well? PLEASE take a few minutes to email us your story at our email address. rca lex* fair poin t:net We'd also like to hear of any other kinds of tire mishaps.
Lets all consider getting a Tire Pressure Indicator kit at our first opportunity, K?
Our love and best wishes to Freida and Chase. By the way, how's the bike?????
Remember: "Keep the Rubber Down, AND INFLATED, It Works Best That Way"
| Ron & Corky Alexander Ass tDir ecto r-So uth* Alab ama- gwrra:org |
District News
-- Motorist Awareness Division District Coordinators
Hello everyone,
Hope everyone is enjoying this beautiful fall like weather we have been having! We just wish we could find a little more time to enjoy it. We haven't got to do much riding lately due to work and other commitments, but we are planning on attending the Region A rally in Dothan. Can't wait to see everyone there! If this one is even close to last years, it will be a time you will not soon forget. To our good friends Steve and Tammy, best of luck in the selection process. We will be there to cheer yall on! We know yall will represent Alabama well! Now a little bit about MAD. I would like to thank all the chapters who have sent in quarterly reports. The next one will be due in October, so lets get out there and let these motorists know we are on the road with them! See you in Dothan!
| Terry & Barbie Cleveland Mot oris tAwa rene ss*A laba ma-g wrra:org |
RECRUITING
-- District Recruiting & Retention
RECRUITING
The past seven months we have been talking about Retention, which is very important, but do not forget, RECRUITING, is the HEART of a healthy and growing association.
The dictionary says, RECRUITING, is the act of getting a new member to join.
If you are proud of GWRRA, go and tell everyone about your chapter---tell them where you went last year---about the fun you have---show them a Wing World magazine---let them know about the Gold Book---the Tow Buster program and invite them to JOIN!
Retention is where the new members expectations are fulfilled, resulting in a satisfied and enthusiastic member. Get new members involved.
Remember, EVERY MEMBER MATTERS!
Happy Recruiting,
| Dewey & Alice Cole Mem bers hipE nhan ceme nt*A laba ma-g wrra:org |
District News
-- MED / PR Coordinators
The North Alabama picnic was a blast this year. They even let Lyn & I collect the money and we actually turned in every penny of it! It sure enabled us to meet and see everyone there for a short while. I think the last count was about 190 people.
The Region A Rally will be Sept. 10th - 12th. And we are really looking forward to seeing everyone from around our Region. Lyn & I had planned a Couple of The Year seminar for the Region October 24th but we have had no response as of today. If we don't have an interest by the Rally we will just have it in Alabaster again for our Alabama Couples. We have been on a lot of chapter rides lately and enjoyed that tremendously.
We did not have a submission from a chapter couple this month to feature but I am sure we will have one next month.
Ride safe and we will see you in Dothan soon.
| Lynn & Lyn Edwards MED *Ala bama -gwr ra:org |
District News
-- District Couple of the Year
Hellooooooooooooo, Alabama. Just thought we'd drop in to say hello one last final time as reigning Alabama District Couple Of the Year. Yes, we will forever be your 2009 District Couple of the Year and will be your District Couple of the Year until the Snowball Run. However, next time you see our article, we'll be your 2009-2010 Region Couple Of the Year~! Okay, if you ain't got optimism, then whadda got? As I've said and as we feel, we are already winners. Gosh! Time flies by almost as fast as flying pigs. We have enjoyed the travels, friendships, and the fun we've had cruisin' the USA looking for GWRRA fans. Steven and I are one of the biggest fans of GWRRA. We love it so much; we talk about it in our sleep. Just the other night I heard Steven screaming, "no, no, no, please don't make me wear a dress! --I don't care if we are in Arkansas!" It's up to you to judge if that was a nightmare or a dream. Well, what happens in Arkansas should stay in Arkansas, but I'll say this. We've been living a dream and that dream is being a part of something bigger than just us -- bigger than life actually. It's amazing if you think about how many people are a part of GWRRA across the USA -- across the planet. I really think we should diversify and develop some relationships with NASA to see about getting some Galactic GWRRA regions. That just means we are going to need some galactic ambassadors. Okay, twist my arm, Steven and I are all about spreading the GWRRA motto, Friends for Fun, Safety, and Knowledge. Anyways, from the coast of California, the mountains of Montana, the hills of Arkansas, the plains of Oklahoma, high-rises in New York, lighthouses in Michigan, historical homes of South Carolina, to the beaches of Florida and back up again, all over the place is nothing but good people. The easiest way to spot'em is when you see'em on a Goldwing. Now if you want to see some on a smaller scale, come to Dothan, Alabama on 10-12 September. It's too late to get our nerves settled down, but it ain't too late to get yourself a room at the Holiday Inn to come support us during the selection process. We are ready to rock-n-roll in South Alabama at the Region A Hoedown in Dothan! Yeeeeeeeeehaw!
On a serious note:
This experience has enriched our lives in a way that it's not only a thrilling time, but it's a therapeutic encounter. It's restored in our belief system that although there may be times when terrorists threaten our way of life and we have friends marching off to the war, natural disasters can turn our lives upside down, a disease epidemic endangers our well being or a simple crisis occurs in our part of the neighborhood, but through it all, there always seems to be a GWRRA member that turns up at just the right time to save the day. They can do as little as help you fix a tire, help you mend your heart, or help you celebrate life. We may have rode a motorcycle into this association, but I think we'll be staying around for a long time, wheels or no wheels. It warms my heart to know that the Couple Of the Year program opens up even more doors of opportunity to meet more friends and build more relationships around the world in all of its 13 regions. It's up to all of us and not just the Couples Of the Year to bridge the gap between GWRRA and non-GWRRA. We need everyone to be safe on motorcycles; we need our communities to be aware that we are on the streets. We need everyone to feel love, peace, and harmony. If that ain't living right, then I don't know what is!
Before I end this rather short article, I just want to say one last thing. The best thing about being the District Couple Of the Year is nothing short of the best thing that could ever happen to you. You grow so much as an individual and you grow as much as a couple. Okay, I'm going to say more than one thing...{hold your snickers}. Before you started snickering I was going to say that WE LOVE YOU ALL. We appreciate your love and support that you have shown us throughout the year and will be showing us on 11 September 2009. And the last thing I want to say is, just before you set in to hoop & holler for us, please take a minute to remember & honor the folks who will never have an opportunity to experience the GWRRA life or any life for that matter such as those that lost their lives during the attack on our nation on 11 September 2001. For the brave soldiers who risk their lives everyday to serve and protect our rights, liberties, property and freedoms just so we all can enjoy the freedom to be an American and free to even be in an organization as great as GWRRA, please keep them in your thoughts and prayers. For the other devoted & dedicated men and women, whether they be military, firefighters, nurses and so on, who serve our societies so that we all can be safe and sound, let's honor them as well.
Okay, are you ready to make some noise?!!!!!
LET'S HEAR IT ALABAMA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
| Steven & Tammy Hollingsworth COY *Ala bama -gwr ra:org |
District News
-- Rally Vendor Coordinators
Helllllllllllllooooooo, ALABAMA! Guess who???????
Are you ready? Huh? You aren't? Why not? Oh come on, don't let the economy scare you away. It's not like you have to use rocket fuel in your Goldwing. It's not like you will have to stay on a high-falutin' space ship. Marriott isn't too bad, and there are lots of other hotels around who offer deals to folks who have to pinch their pennies a little tighter. You should see some of our pennies. Abe Lincoln can't even afford a haircut. He's having to let his hair grow out. He's using Mrs. Lincoln's curlers because he can't afford a perm. Even his beard is getting a little thicker. Then, if you look closer, we've really been pinch'n pennies. We just take a little pinch out at a time. If you look even more closer, the penny is a Goldwing penny.
Everything else might be expensive, but Goldwing pennies are a little cheaper. So, yes, this economic crisis is really affecting a lot of folks. So, here's a possible solution. You can come to the District Rally and the Region Rally and you can cut corners on other rallies, however, I highly recommend you don't cut rallies out. Instead, you know, you probably could cut out that second peanut butter & jelly sandwich and start sharing some meals with your spouse. Besides, have you ever noticed when you go out with the Wingers that they like to talk? {whoaaaaaaaa, I felt the gust off of that exclamation!}. Yes, it is true. So, if you are still hungry, just sneak a little piece off of your spouse or buddies' plate, they'll never know it, they're too busy talking!! Now if you can make it to the District Rally, we'll be feeding you some stuff. Also, it won't cost much to have fun. If you just stand around in the parking lot with your friends, you'll burn calories and save money and you'll have a boat-load of FUN! You know if you really need to get thrifty, you can always buy a couple of tickets and win a free registration, or win some money, or win something that your friend would really, really like and you can sell it to them for a good price that both of you could be content with. You could also start a raffle on a piece of chrome that you might have extra lying around in your garage, and gosh, you'll probably make enough to go to Wing Ding next year. But for now, we are just concerned with getting you over to Alabama District Rally. So cut out the butter and eat just a peanut sandwich. Peanuts are free at Logan's Roadhouse. Cut the sugar out of your Kool-aid. Kool-aid is still good without sugar. Start drinking iced cappuccinos; so once your coffee gets cold, you can just drink it anyways. Okay, I'm sure there are other numerous ways to cut your budget so you can make it to the rally. Pinch a penny and come play with us.
It ain't gonna be long now. April is just 8 months away! You've got time to get pregnant and have a kid, so I know you got time to save some money, get gussie'd up and come rally with us on 1-3 April 2010. Two-thousand ten is going to be a good year. Know why? Well, just cauz I said so. Ain't that good enough for ya? You know, as I've suggested before, a yard sale ain't a bad idea either. You know if you clear some of your stuff out of your house, it will reduce dust and promote better airflow, thereby reducing your heating & cooling bill, and you will have more room to get more Goldwing stuff. So, do you have an outfit for the rally yet? Welllllllll, what are you waiting on??????? Hey, run down to the dollar store, buy a few rolls of aluminum foil and I'm sure you'll be able to come up with some kind of get-up that will look really spacey. Just think back when you were a kid -- what kind of stuff did you make with aluminum foil before your mama caught ya and blistered your bottom? You don't plan to dress up? Well, you'll look out of place in a crowd of weird-looking folks but that's your call. I've said it once, I've said it twice....start saving your money, book your hotel, get your registration in to Ms. Sue Chapman (checks made payable to Alabama GWRRA (US dollars only or a nice check won't be so bad). Don't forget early bird gets the free rally pin. Hey it's free if you are quick enough! See there! I just gave you a money-saving tip. If you've learned anything from this article, I hope you've learned to become more knowledgeable in an economic crisis. Now, we may need to work on your psychological hindrances, such as shyness. Hey, don't be shy, all of those folks at the rally are really, really nice, and they ride a Goldwing just like you! If you come up with a crafty costume to wear, no one will even know it's you. So, costume or not, you need to break out of your shell. Blast off to the Rocket City here in Huntsville, Alabama and you might find that it really IS what it's all cracked up to be. FUN, FUN, FUN. On one last note, I just want to say, if you are still having problems with shyness, come see me or Steven. We are working on putting together a shyness intervention class that involves greeting vendors and evaluating their merchandise.
Long live Goldwingers! Roll Out Goldwingers!
It's not about the destination, it's about the journey.
| Steven & Tammy Hollingsworth Ven dorC oord inat or*A laba ma-g wrra:org |
September 2009 - 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
September - 2009
| 1 | Tue | Supper at Lenny's Sub Shop -- 6:00pm - 7830 Highway 72 W #150, Madison (couple of doors down from Books A Million) |
| 3 | Thu | Supper at Red Lobster -- 6:00pm - 1818 University Drive |
| 5 | Sat | Mammoth Cave Excursion (Thru Sunday) -- 9:00am - Depart Madison/CB Shell |
| 6 | Sun | Breakfast at Mullins -- 8:30am - 607 Andrew Jackson Way NE, Huntsville. Ride TBD. |
| 7 | Mon | Labor Holiday |
| 8 | Tue | Rocket City Wings gathering -- Ryan's, S. Pkwy, Huntsville. Eat 6pm / Meet 7pm |
| 9 | Wed | Killington Classic -- Motorcycle Touring Rally |
| 10 | Thu | GWRRA - Region A Rally (Thru Saturday) |
| 11 | Fri | Patriot Day -- Terrorist Attack on NY and DC 8th Anniversary |
| 13 | Sun | Ride for Kids -- Start & End: Barber's Motorsports, Reg: 8am to 9:45am, Ride Leaves Promptly 10:00am Rain or Shine |
| Breakfast at Mullins -- 8:30am - 607 Andrew Jackson Way NE, Huntsville. Ride TBD. | ||
| Chapter-X Invites you to Ride for Kids -- Start & End: Barber's Motorsports, Reg: 8am to 9:45am, Ride Leaves Promptly 10:00am Rain or Shine | ||
| Grandparent's Day | ||
| 15 | Tue | Birthday Dinner at Donatos Pizza -- 6:00pm - 7500 S Memorial Parkway |
| 17 | Thu | Supper at Shogun Japanese Steak & Sushi -- 6:00pm - 3991 University Dr NW |
| 19 | Sat | Trail of Tears -- Commemorative Motorcycle Ride |
| 20 | Sun | Breakfast at Mullins -- 8:30am - 607 Andrew Jackson Way NE, Huntsville. Ride TBD. |
| 22 | Tue | First Day of Autumn -- 21:45 UTC |
| 24 | Thu | Supper at Cheeburger Cheeburger -- 6:00pm - Town Center Drive, Village of Providence |
| GWRRA - NC District Rally - Wings Over the Smokies (Thru Saturday) | ||
| 27 | Sun | Breakfast at Mullins -- 8:30am - 607 Andrew Jackson Way NE, Huntsville. Ride TBD. |
| 29 | Tue | Supper at Po Boy Factory -- 6:00pm - 815 Andrew Jackson Way |
| 30 | Wed | Myrtle Beach Fall Motorcycle Rally |
October - 2009
| 1 | Thu | Firehouse Subs -- 6:00pm - 2750 Carl T. Jones Drive |
| Great Smoky Mountain Fall Rally (Thru Sunday) | ||
| 3 | Sat | Chapter-J Motorcycle Rodeo -- 10am-2pm - Palmore Park, Tuscaloosa |
| 4 | Sun | Breakfast at Mullins -- 8:30am - 607 Andrew Jackson Way NE, Huntsville. Ride TBD. |
| 5 | Mon | Madison County Area Schools Fall Break (Thru Friday) |
| 6 | Tue | Supper at Lenny's Sub Shop -- 6:00pm - 7830 Highway 72 W #150 (couple of doors down from Books A Million) |
| 8 | Thu | Supper at Olive Garden -- 6:00pm - 3730 University Dr NW |
| GWRRA - VA District Rally (Thru Saturday) | ||
| 10 | Sat | Rider Education Day |
| 11 | Sun | Breakfast at Mullins -- 8:30am - 607 Andrew Jackson Way NE, Huntsville. Ride TBD. |
| 12 | Mon | Columbus Holiday (Observed) |
| 13 | Tue | Rocket City Wings gathering -- Ryan's, S. Pkwy, Huntsville. Eat 6pm / Meet 7pm |
| 15 | Thu | GWRRA - Mississippi District Rally (Thru Saturday) |
| 23 | Fri | Couple of the Year Get Together (Thru Saturday) |
| 29 | Thu | GWRRA - Region N Rally (Thru Saturday) |
| 31 | Sat | Halloween |