Building upon success

Though January still has a couple of days to go, it is not too early to mark calendars for 18 November, the date for the 5th Annual El Cajon HOG Toys for Tots Ride.

For the second year, El Cajon HOG will partner with the Del Mar Thoroughbred Club for this worthy event.  Starting at El Cajon Harley-Davidson, the ride destination will be the Del Mar Race Track.

It is an opportunity to support the Marine Corps Reserves Toys for Tots Program in San Diego.

Let's surpass last year.

More bikes and more toys.

It is liberating

The phrase "it is liberating" most certainly captures the unique freedom experienced on the open road while piloting a motorcycle.  This experience is heightened when the open road is far from crowded urban areas.  

Rolling along, astride the motorcycle, through magnificent scenery liberates the soul.  The rushing air and sound of the rumbling motor peel off the concerns of daily life.  At one with machine and the environment.  It is liberating, but this not about which I write today.

Even more liberating, and not requiring a bike, is a self-imposed news blackout.

It came to be that reading and watching so-called news were simply sources of aggravation.  Journalism has been overcome by thinly -- if ever -- disguised opinion drivel.  Conservative or liberal, it does not matter.  News has been replaced by largely unfounded expressions of personal views.  And, much like elected officials seeking fame and fortune, the purveyors of these opinions seek not to enlighten, but to receive clicks, calls, tweets, posts, and the other currency of an opinion crazy, narcissistic social media driven society.

The more inflammatory, the better.  The more rabid and outrageous, the better.  That this phenomenon occurs without integrity or principal matters not.

It finally dawned that by reading and watching these opinion hucksters, I was giving credence to their offerings.  I was part of the problem, and in the process I was allowing myself to get riled up, day after day.  Enough!  Why go thorough the day  upset by some opinion piece masquerading as journalism?  The solution is the self-imposed "news" blackout.

Now several weeks into this approach, I am much happier.  So not to mislead, let me explain.  I scan on-line headlines from conservative and liberal sources, gaining an appreciation for the stories of the day.  But I do not read them.  There are some topics motivating further examination, such as military and veteran stories.  Sadly, however, I am finding all too many of these infected with the opinion bug, leading to reducing the number of pieces I read on these topics.  I also read pieces about sports events, primarily to learn the results, not the off field goings on by the over paid professional athletes.  And lots of motorcycle pieces.  Finally, I watch NO televised news.  ZERO.  NONE.  

It is truly liberating.

Apart from saving lots of time, I avoid the aggravating, ignorance-based, opinion driven drivel passing for journalism.  The day starts and ends on a much more positive note.  

Caring not a whit about the goings on by self-appointed celebrities, with ego maniacal internal views, why provide them entry into my life?  Out, out damn fools I say.

Now I can spend time planning the next family gathering or next motorcycle outing, playing tennis with my bride, cycling, and riding the Harley.  I rest more comfortably and enjoy time with friends without discussing the latest "crisis" some idiot had proclaimed.

It is so liberating.         

Into the New Year

One could certainly understand that a pervading sense of pessimism is bemoaned by others, as the calendar is about to change from 2017 to 2018.

Doomsayers, naysayers, conspiracy theorists, extremists (from both political parties), self appointed social activists, university and college professors, union leaders, male, female, public school teachers, journalists, media commentators, elected officials at all levels, non-elected government officials at all levels, red staters, blue staters, people of all races, people of all ethnicities, rich, poor, urban dwellers, farmers, straight, gay, questionable, and almost every other imaginable group are portrayed by the widely divided media as angry about something or everything.  Whipping their bases into a frenzy, the various factions and individuals claiming to represent one view or another seem to be working overtime to sow and fertilize  mistrust and division throughout the nation.

It is all too easy to answer their siren songs, regardless of an individual's core beliefs.

But as we move into the new year, let us urge resistance to the sirens of division.  Why?  Because far more examples of people coming together exist, in spite of what the naysayers and doomsayers preach, regardless of what we would have expected to believe.

Delving into the news, bypassing the sensationalism put out to inflame, and you will find stories of incredible kindness, generosity, and brotherhood.  Average citizens literally running into the flames of a burning house.  Individuals plucking an unknown person out of the way of certain death or serious injury.  Strangers standing up to defend someone being abused.  The stories are as endless as they are inspirational.

Look and you will see for yourself that the naysayers and doomsayers are way off base.  

Sure, there are challenges.  And hard work is needed to address them.

But the average guy and gal, just working day-by-day, is usually ready and willing to help out when the need arises.

Thankfully that is what the new year holds for us.        

Contrasts

Dictionary.com defines contrast, in part, as "to compare in order to show unlikeness or differences; note the opposite natures, purposes, etc."

What took place a week ago in El Cajon and Del Mar, California displayed a strong contrast between what some people might believe or assume about those who ride motorcycles; bikers, if you will.   It is likely many average Americans think of bikers in the image of Marlon Brando in The Wild One,

   

or so called gangs of today.  Leather, chrome, Harleys, loud pipes, denim, patches, and on and on.  But that is where the contrast comes into play.

On November 19, bikers came together to give to the community.  Specifically, the San Diego community via the U. S. Marine Corps Reserves Toys for Tots Program.  

Beginning with registering and staging at El Cajon Harley-Davidson, they rode to the Del Mar Race Track, joining with track patrons to ultimately provide an estimated 2,300 toys and $8,600 in cash donations to the Marine Corps Reserves 4th Tank Battalion, so that some children in the San Diego region will have a piece of Christmas this year.

Hundreds turned out for this most worthy of causes.

If that isn't a contrast, I don't know what is.

San Diego's Largest Toys for Tots Event

Four days until the Toys for Tots Ride on 19 November.  Help support the Marine Corps Reserves Toys for Tots program and make a difference this Christmas.  

You do not have to be a biker to join in.  Go to the Stretch Run Gate at the Del Mar Race Track, where each individual donating a new, unwrapped toy will receive free admission.  Gates open at 11:00 AM.  Join us in the Red Star Cafe and for $10 donation for Toys for Tots, come on in and buy some tickets for the opportunity drawing benefiting Toys for Tots.  The drawing starts at 11:30 and runs most of the day.  More than 80 prizes.  And check out the silent auction.

If you are a biker, register at El Cajon Harley-Davidson that morning and join the group Ride from El Cajon to the Del Mar Racetrack.  Or just head to the track, make your way to the Red Star Cafe, and register there (gates open at 11:00).

For more details, go the website.

Toys for Tots Ride

Gearing up for the largest Toys for Tots event in the San Diego region, the 4th Annual El Cajon Harley Owners Group Toys for Tots Ride on 19 November.

El Cajon Harley-Davidson to the Del Mar racetrack.

Should be awesome.  Check it out here.

Marine Corps Birthday

Tomorrow is the Marine Corps birthday, a special day for all of us. As this picture shows, many deploy and are deployed around the world. What caught my attention in the picture, taken when the PGR welcomed home Marines from deployment, is the #10 in the lower right hand corner of the window. As we raise our glasses to celebrate the birth of our Corps, let us also remember fellow Marines are going in harm's way.

34 years ago

34 years ago, terrorists attacked the Marines in Beirut. 

Among those killed in the blast was Major William "Bill" Winter, USMC, with whom I had served at Marine Barracks United Kingdom. 

Last spoke with him at Camp Lejeune a few weeks before the MAU shipped out. 

RIP brother and Semper Fidelis.

California wild fires

The tragedy of this year's California's wild fires compels  comment.

Periodically writing about the benefits of being a biker living in California, what with the normally good-to-super riding weather, I am heartsick at the loss of life and property destruction.  Airborne drone based videos showing the devastation, like that in Santa Rosa, are compelling in displaying the tragic impact on our fellow citizens.

Having ridden through the area multiple times, on Routes 1 and 101, memories of the natural beauty abound.

These latest fires have wrecked havoc.  So, it will be hard to even imagine riding through the region in the future.

Our earnest prayers go out to all those impacted by this tragedy, particularly for the families who lost loved ones.

Riding year 'round

For much of the country, the riding season is coming to an end, much as the sun starts setting at the end of a day of riding.

But for those of us in SoCal, riding is year 'round.

Yeah, we have the lousy traffic in large mega-urban areas with which to contend.  And we definitely have a higher price for gasoline, poised to become even more expensive by a rushed-through-the-legislature new tax in this land of endless taxation.  But there relatively few days when I can't crank up the Harley and hit the roads.

So, brother riders in less hospitable areas, prep your bikes well for the winter storage.  Wash and wax, polish, protect the rubber and leather.  Consider a gas stabilizer.  Make sure the battery tender is plugged in.  And maybe cover the bike to keep the dirt off.

Out here we will be washing, waxing, polishing, shining, and riding!

Save the date

Mark your calendars now for the El Cajon Harley Owners Group 4th Annual Toys for Tots Ride.  It is open to all motorcycles and classic cars.

On 19 November, the ride begins at El Cajon Harley-Davidson and heads to the Del Mar Racetrack, where registered participants get parking, entry to the track, exclusive use of the Red Star Cafe and Patio, and grandstand access in order to enjoy the horse racing. 

Check out the website for more detailed information. 

There is also an opportunity drawing, with many terrific prizes, for example:

• Nuviz motorcycle Heads Up Display (HUD)
• Art from the Official Daytona Bike Week Artist, Mathew Hintz
• Gift certificate from 7Eye by Panoptx
• Gift Certificate from 94th Aero Squadron restaurant
• Legoland tickets from American Tire Depot
• T-shirts, patches, and decals from Bikers Against Drunk Drivers
• Gift certificate for buffet for two from Barona Resort
• Buffalo Wings gift car
• Gift basket from Cafe Moto
• Gift certificates from Cali Comfort BBQ
• GoPro camera
• Custom knife from Columbia River Knife and Tool
• Art from renowned artist David Uhl
• Teddy Bears in USMC Dress Blues from eMarine PX
• Tickets and t-shirts from Good Guys Rod and Custom
• Autographed book from Greg Gutfeld
• Helmets from HJC
• Autographed CD from Jason Aldean
• Four tickets to Boyd Gaming 300 NASCAR Race from Las Vegas Motor Speedway
• Hats and t-shirts from Martin Brothers Customs
• Art from renowned artist Rick TImmons
• Gift certificates from Road ID
• Gift packs from RoadRunner Motorcycle Touring and Travel
• Tickets to San Diego Automotive Museum
• Discount certificates from Rude Dog Leathers
• Motorcycle Bag from Saddleman Leather
• Tickets to San Diego State University home football game
• Shirts and special gifts from Sgt Grit
• Round of golf and lunch for two from Sycuan Golf Resort
• Tickets to USS Midway Museum
• Gift package from Wizard Products
• Gift certificates from Wrangler Family BBQ

Saturday morning breakfast

Saturday morning in San Diego County, under overcast skies, with cool temperatures.  With my bride at an all day event, it was a perfect opportunity to head out for an early breakfast.

Can't say enough about the cooler weather, after fairly recent triple digit days.  This was near perfect riding weather.

Thinking about where to head, a favorite -- Descanso Junction -- came to mind.

As can be guessed, it is a place with a decidedly western theme.  But that's only one of the many reasons to head there.  More on that later.

So I slurped down a cup of coffee for the road, then geared up.  Having washed and polished the bike earlier in the week, it was fully fueled and ready for some fresh air on the open roads of San Diego's east county.  After getting on Route 94, turned on to Honey Springs Road, then Lyon Valley Road, and finally connected with Japatul Valley Road.  Once crossing under Interstate 8, it was a short distance on Route 79 to the restaurant.  It can definitely be described as off the beaten path, at least for those not in the know.

Seeking a restaurant on road trips has taught me to look for pick-up trucks or motorcycles.  Seeing a parking lot filled with either virtually guarantees finding good food at decent prices.  To clarify, this rule of thumb applies to looking for a restaurant, not a biker bar or hang out.  (If you need to ask the difference, you won't understand.)  At the Descanso Junction, the rule of thumb applies.  

Early this Saturday morning, motorcycles of various makes and types shared available parking with a good number of pick-ups.  Candidly, it was a bit of a surprise to see such a number of bikes early on Saturday morning.  After entering, I noted the gray beard bikers, like yours truly, were in the majority from the two wheel set.  Maybe it is because "more experienced" folks tend to rise earlier than the younger crowd.

          

Riding solo this morning, I opted for a chair at the diner style bar.  (Check out the horse shoes hanging under the bar.)  Just the right amount of chatter, laughter, and bantering with the waitstaff mixed in with subtle country and oldies music.  Near immediately I was told, "You look like you need a cup of coffee and a menu."  No argument, as I accepted both from the server Mary.

On the ride up, I knew it was going to be a choice between hotcakes and French toast.  This morning I decided on the French toast, with scrambled eggs and hash browns, for $7.  With coffee and tax, it was just over $10.  Can't beat it.

If wanting to dash in, choke down a meal, and dash out, don't go to places like Descanso Junction.  If wanting to enjoy well cooked and plentiful food, friendly conversation, and relaxation, mark this as a place to put your kick stand down.  To say it is biker friendly would be an understatement.  Good folks.  Good food.  Good service.  Good value.  Exactly right on this Saturday morning.

With a full belly a comfortable time later, I paid the bill, left a generous tip, and headed to the bike.  As I and another couple of older bikers were preparing to pull out, four riders of the younger persuasion were pulling in.  Brought to mind a changing of the guard, so to speak.  The early risers, mostly solo riders, were heading out as younger riders, many two up, were arriving.

Regardless of age or bike ridden, they all had one thing in common.  Breakfast at Descanso Junction this Saturday morning.      

American values on two wheels

OK, you might wonder about the lead, "American values on two wheels."  It isn't that mystical, however.

The MoCo, the Motor Company, aka Harley-Davidson, introduced its 2018 softail line of bikes.  Gone are the Dynas, sort of.  Actually, the Dynas have more or less been incorporated into the new softails.

As the MoCo seeks new generations of riders, while remaining loyal to the usual Harley touring bike riders, it made a bold statement with the Fat Bob 114.

And the Fat Boy 114.

Muscular.  Aggressive.  Powerful.  Unique.  Independent.

Those adjectives can also be used to describe traditional American values.  

With these two (and other) updated models, the MoCo stakes a claim in the biker market, dramatically declaring to the world that it represents American values.  And by representing American values, it speaks to the ultimate freedom offered by riding a motorcycle.

Not a 50cc little around-town-putter, but a pavement tearing ride appearing to be in motion even while resting on its kickstand.

Appealing to the X-Games crowd and, as one Harley-Davidson dealership co-owner described it, seeking out the younger dirt bike rider, older dirt bike rider who realizes he doesn't bounce as well as he once did, and BMX rider looking to hop on a motor, MoCo is laying a bold, indisputably American value based claim on the market.

The single word dominating their advertising -- freedom -- captures that statement of American value.  

At the invite of a local Harley-Davidson dealer, I will be taking the Fat Bob 114 for a test ride this week.  Can't wait to explore more freedom, American style.

On the open, road, drop into a corner, point my chin where I want to go, and grab some throttle.  That captures the American definition of the American value of freedom.   

  

   

Poignant

In addition to this blog, I do a little free lance writing, mainly about veterans and motorcycling.  Doing so brings me into contact with some truly amazing people, including Marine Corps veteran Ana Sanchez.

A veteran of our most recent wars, it was my honor to interview her, which produced this article.  It tells her story, including being a member of the Marine Corps Female Engagement Teams in ground combat, thus earning the unique recognition of being a Lioness.

Most sadly, Ana passed away recently, succumbing to cancer and leaving behind her husband, a daughter, and a son.

Her passing underscores that there are fantastic people who come into our lives, if only for a short period.  They are extraordinary, simply because they are average, patriotic folks like most of us, working hard to live happy and productive lives day-to-day.

They are not individuals written about by the main stream media.  They are not people about who various pundits and self-appointed experts speak.  They are not the rich and famous.  They don't travel in limousines or chartered aircraft.  They don't appear on talk shows.    

They are our fellow Americans, pure and simple, who have served their country.  They do not seek handouts.  They stand when our National Anthem is played.  Their families are the centers of their lives.

They are male, female, white, black, Asian, Hispanic, Native American.  They come from every part of the country.  They like all kinds of music.  They live in blue states and red states.

Remember, I suggest, these folks when tempted to complain about this or that.  The paths of our lives cross for a bit, adding richness to each.  This is the human experience and deserves recognition.

Just as Marine Corps combat veteran Ana Sanchez deserves our respect for her service.  Her life mattered, not just to her family and friends, but to our nation as well.

Semper Fidelis 

  

California dreamin'

Spinning off from the 1960s song that spoke of dreaming of California weather when the "leaves are brown," this California dreamin' is about that next ride.  The next motorcycle.

Dreamin' about the next road trip, riding along with my buddy of more than 50 years, as we roll on to new adventures.  Riding Harley-Davidson soft tails for the past ten years, it is now time to move up to a touring bike.  The challenge is making it happen.

As another riding buddy said, buying the next ride can be afforded, but can it be justified?

But once justified and the new ride parked in the garage, then the fun really begins.  Planning for the next road trip.  There are so many options here on the west coast, event and non-event centered: Hollister Rally, Lighthouse Run, Why We Ride Quail Run, and Routes 1/101 up the California and Oregon coast lines.  Or maybe it's time to head back to Sturgis?

Dreamin' again.  Open roads.  The harmonic sounds coming from the exhausts of two bikes rolling along together.  Small towns.  Mom and Pop eateries.  Sights previously unseen.  New acquaintances we haven't yet met.  The ultimate expression of American freedom.  Encountering the unexpected, from the quaint to the sublime.  That first cold beer after a long day in the saddle.  Dreamin' again.