One Track Mind

Not necessarily a bad thing, but .....has it's benefits.  I suppose there are a few drawbacks but .... not evident to me as I post this.

Early on I didn't care what brand I rode.  Didn't care of about MCs or Riding Groups/Clubs. I was 100% happy with my jap bike, it's dependability. Its low cost.   But ... we change. We evolve.

Soon ... I wanted more. I wrote about this a decade ago ...  deep down wanted some American Iron but didn't want to pay the price ($$$).  I wasn't sold on it all anyways because the HDs felt small to me.  I almost bought a Boss Hoss back in '09.  But I sat on an '09 Indian Chief and I knew I was sitting on my future bike.  I'd fallen in love with the looks amost a decade prior but .. had never sat on one.  They weren't in my budget.  But on that day in June of 2009, Austin Texas' ROT Rally ....  I fell in love.  Soon after, I found myself joining the Iron Indians (IIRA) which I was a part of for the next decade. Along the way, I bought an HD. A Chopper.  A Superbike crotch rocket.  My focus on the IIRA waned and found my new focus that has driven my behaviour since 2018.  I patched in with the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association® (CVMA®).  Game Changer.

Yes, I love my bikes.  They just happen to mostly be Indians.  I still Love them .. I Love the Brand. But I'm not blind nor ignorant of other great brands and models.  I own other brands.  I just choose to ride what I ride based solely on my personal desires.  Whom I choose to ride with 99% of the time is the CVMA®; like minded Vets.  I've actually flipped 180 and snicker at some others that are focused on one brand and literally hate the other brands. I jokingly say I ride 'em all.  I see events around the country that are dedicated to specific brands. Hell I used to participate in a lot of these events and rallys, all over the country.  But as I get older, as I mature (or not), I spend most of my time around the CVMA®.  At CVMA® events.  CVMA® get togethers.  It's not all I do, but when on two wheels .... tends to be that.  I've done so many rallies and trips on 2 wheels over the last couple of decades but ...   my focus is CVMA®.   Hell there are weeks I feel like I put more into that, than my full time job.  Yes, when work calls I break away, go all in .. but on a weekly or monthly basis I find myself planning trips around the country to CVMA® events.  Hell, my work schedule sometimes is scheduled around .. my CVMA® commitments.  

Crazy huh?  Nah .... Living my version of the Dream.  At 65, I've got another couple of decades of riding left and plan on pushing it as hard as possilbe.  Guessing evenutally I'll end up on 3 wheels but that day is nowhwere in sight.  I've got a few friends going that route.  Some older, some the same age... hell.... a few younger.  Not Me ... Not Yet.

Hell.... my main focus as I type this is planning a 1500 mile IBA Butt Burner for 2026.  Good Days / Rides / Miles, ahead!

Take a Break!

This can apply to many things we're part of in our lives.  Not specific to anything  the way this is written.   But obviously I've got something on my mind and for me personally it's specific as I write this.   I belong to an Assocation that means a LOT ot me.  Has become a huge part of my life over the last 7 + years.  I believe in what it stands for, the Brotherhood it embraces and creates, the huge family one becomes part of.  Fact.  But like everything in life, nothing is perfect.  There are always lil' speed bumps out there in our own lives and others. I've written about these sort of things for well over a decade here on my blog(s).  And as always ...  something triggers me and I find myself... creating another post?

Over the last 5+ years, I've written about this subject at hand in various aspects.  Did a quick search and found this from August 2020 that I'd wrote: https://rickkkcir.blogspot.com/2020/08/give-up-cut-patch.html .  Usually, something happening sets my thought process into motion and find my fingers on this keyboard putting those thoughts into this virutal journal.  Back in '2020 I don 't remember exactly what prompted it ....  I remember back in Sep 2021 things got riled up and I did some posts about folks quitting. In Jan of 2024 I did one after we lost a member of some stupid shit: https://easttexasbiker.blogspot.com/2024/01/turning-in-patch.html.  Hell, in December of 2022 I found myself in the middle of a fiasco and wrote a lil about it (go find that one yourself .. lol) Interestingly that last one reshapped my thought process about The Association I'm part of, all for the better in the big picture and long run; but ...  almost went sideways.  But that which doesn't kill you mak...... whatever.  You get the point.

So, what's the point of this Post?  Sometimes.....  we just need to take a deep breath and take a break!  That wasn't the intial Title of this post.  It was "Quitting and turning in the Patch.".  After writing this first line of this paragraph ...  I changed it to what it is now ...   'Take a Break!'     Why?  Sometimes we make emotional decisions, rightly or wrongly, and may regret them down the road.  Sometimes we just need to step away and get our shit together.  Get a differrent viewpoint.  Whatever.  Let me be a notch more specific.

You belong to a group or association.  For whatever reason you don't 'feel it' anymore.  You don't feel that you're getting anything out of it. You may not agree with the direction it's going.  Or maybe you feel you've been wronged?  Maybe that you're being ignored.  Whatever it is, you're done.  Over it all.  So, you get on your phone .. or behind your keyboard .. and announce to whomever ... or worse .. the 'world' (think Social Media) that you're done and moving on.  Here is where I have a different viewpoint.  Why?  I'm thinking .. 'take a break!'.     A situation happened last night that got me to writing this.  But last month I saw a situation that stemmed from a FB Group being started up where hundreds of people joined up, shit went sideways, people got upset and when the smoke cleared some 'quit' The Assocation.  Some lost faith (huh?) in it all.  Hell, I remember when that group started up I was shaking my head. I personally questioned the 'reasons' it began.  I was aware of some of the players and had seen my share of what I percieved as BS on another format prior and now they had their own audience they essentially controlled.  Then 30 days later.. bam .. implodes and folks are butt hurt and going sideways.  Happened way sooner than I'd expected ... but didn't surprise me.   In any case .. .back to the point at hand.   

Take a Break!   Here's my advice I've given to many and not always heeded.  If you're unhappy with a group, take your vest , park it in the closet or garage , or hanging next to your bike .. wherever it normally hangs and let it sit there for awhile.  Take your soft colors and put them in an empty drawer.  Get off specific Social Media groups/pages, by unfollowing them.  Turn off notifications.  Now, assuming you actually have a life outside of it ... go live it.  STFU.  Relax.  As I write this it's September.  Let's assume you're all paid up in whatever group until next year.  Perfect.  If your group requires attendance over a period of time make sure you show your face, somewhere that counts, get your check mark and press on.  Problem Solved, right?  There is a really good chance whatever has you pissed off at the world, your group, people whatever, will go away after a cooling off period.  What if it doesn't?  Well .. many may disagree with me on this one .. but ...   next year, reach in your wallet (hypothetically), pay your annual dues  ...   wear generic clothing to a meeting or event, record your attendance .. and guess what .. you have another year to park it for your cooling off period.    Now, if you never come around ....   at some point .... you pull the plug.  HOWEVER, I'll bet $$ most do come around.  Most will get over whatever was bothering them.  Most will forget whatever pissed them off to start with.    Here's the part the cracks me up.  I've seen patches that profess a love for what they are part of.  Patches that say 'forever.' around the group sayings or mottos.  Seen ink on their body stating their love for it all.  To walk away from it all makes no sense to me.  What about that pledge they took when first joining?  Did that mean nothing?

I honestly don't get it.  Sadly, it makes me question human nature as a whole. Makes me question folks out the gate a lil harder.  Are they REALLY committed?  Do they REALLY care?  WHY are they joining in the first place?  

There ... off my chest.  Psssst....   want to know why I joined The Association I'm currently part of?  I wanted to ride with local Vets.  That's it.  Nothing more nothing less.  I wasn't looking for a charity group.  Wasn't looking to change the world.  Wasn't looking for help of any kind. Wasn't looking for new friends.  I simply wanted to ride; and with Vets that I have a common thread with ... even better.  Now, what it's all become to me is huge.  In some ways Life Changing.  I've made what I belive are lifetime friendships.  Have a new family. Realizing I have my own personal/mental issues I've ignored and look deeper into myself. Realzing a lot of folks that have served have acquired emotional baggage (ie PTSD) that's occured while keeping this Nation safe; more than I ever realized previously. I've found myself believing in something bigger and greater than myself for the first time in decades.  

So when someone decides to toss in their Patch ... I don't get it.  Take a Break

Monthly Mtg / Tennesse Colony

Awhile back, EZOUT xferred back to our Chapter after some time spent with the Tyler Chapter as Commander.  I'd met him a few years back when he had a few of us to his HS (He was either Superintendent or Principal) for a Veterans Day event that was an honor to attend.  Other part of that day I liked?  The Ride!   Two hundred miles of mostly two lane the way I like it....  Few months ago he volunteered to host our August Chapter Meeting at his home and it's on the schedule!

Saturday morning Dutch rounded up about a 1/2 dozen bikes from our Chapter, and two from Denison rolled in (Squirrel and FourteenMM) with us, then picked Lucy and I up at KIMs in Lone Oak and we headed through Canton and onward to EZOUTs.  Pulled up a hundred miles later and he was waiting for us with a great setup in his Shop/Building.  He'd just finished grilling up some Dogs and Brats, had some sides inside to serve up, lots of waters and Beers for those that obliged.  Sitting there nibbling away, I got to admiring his setup and asking questions.  I believe his building is about 30x40 enclosed with a 12' overhang off to one side.  The other side he's built a nice mother in law suite for future use.  Out back he's got a small firing range (that several utlized this trip).  But the impressive part?  Aside from the concrete pour/foundation, he pretty much built the whole thing himself.  Damned!  Yep, I'm impressed.  His lovely wife was in the mix with us and I believe she had a really good time.  I mention that because she's not a member of our Aux as many of our wives aren't.  I'd like to see all that change .. but...  can't blame them sometimes.  Put a bunch of A type grown ass men together with motorcycles and a lil drama can sometimes ensue and the spouses have to endure the stories.  Many of them think .. 'oh hell no.'  LOL   Well, maybe over time we can change some of that up?  In the meantime, Fluffy and Momma Bear have rolled in with their two young un's, Hollywood has had to cage in due to a back issue (I feel his pain). and we've got a quorom/meeting.

Highlight today we got to sing Happy Birthday to Hunter (Bubba) who's joined us with his parents and we then patched in GoinEZ (FM) and KittyKat (Aux).  The meeting went smooth and was quick!  Only thing we needed to discuss was our DRP program.  Short version/my version ...   some wanted to add the option for a Support Vehicle to get miles.  I personally believe those shouldn't count. Someone wants to pull a trailer for the good of the chapter, outstanding!  If my bike ends up on there due to a problem, I'll pay for their gas; buy them lunch!  But why should someone get RIDING miles pulling a trailer with a cage? Just my .02/opinion.  Now had it passed I'd have moved forward with the new SOP.  In fact, I introduced a version / addendum that I thought made sense.  I was against it, but assured everyone and meant it, I'd support the change if implemented. Only 10% of those in attendance voted for it... so ...  no cager/trailer miles

SUPPORT VEHICLE: The driver of the Chapter support vehicle where a support vehicle is deemed necessary by the Chapter Commander, will receive DRP mileage credit.  If the support vehicle changes drivers during that trip, only those miles driven by each driver apply to their DRP mileage. Support vehicle must be pulling a trailer capable of hauling a full-size touring motorcycle (Bike or Trike), have a wheel chock (or other option to secure the front tire) and 4+ Straps for securing a motorcycle that’s participating on the ride that may need transport due to motorcycle or Rider issues. Options for jump starting a bike (ex. battery jumper cables) and a basic medical kit are highly recommended.  Finally, support vehicle must travel with the motorcycles in the Chapter Ride at the rear of the group.

Once we got through the meeting (30 minutes!), Swamprat showed me the audio recording time... I'm thinking that was a new record!  Now we've got time to visit an relax and sip some brews and some hydrate options.   Gunny had pulled in on the backend of the meeting but made it.  He's had some really shitty luck with bikes lately but ... he was rolling today.  By 1400 hrs ... we've still got two hours to ride home so we're soon giving hugs and headed out.  Great meeting at EZOUTs and I'd do it again.  Only negative (and it's not a negative per'se) is .. .lot of folks don't want to ride that far for a meeting. However, he rides a LONG way for every meeting we have  ....  so what's it hurt once a year or so to head his way?

Dutch takes us back a diff' way through Quinlan with a Stop at Brew Birds for some cold ones and nice cool temps at the Bar!  Hour later....  we're all rolling home.  Another great weekend with our Brothers and Sisters

The Cut

Our Back Patch is at the core of our Organization.  It represents us to the world.  And it's represented to the world on our Cuts.  How that gets displayed and handled ... is an interesting one.  Opinions are all over the spectrum on this.  Multiple forum discussions on it.  Comes up often at Chapter Levels.   And there are SOPs that even touch on the subject at various levels.   But, as always .. I've got an opinion.

Minimalist or All in?  Me personally, I'm somewhere in between.  My current Cut has been with me since 2017 when I was preparing to patch in with the CVMA.  It's a high quality heavier leather vest I got out at the Motorcycle Outpost in Westminster.  I've seen a few since that are much lighter. Some are different materials so they can 'breath' and are cooler in our hot summer months.  Either way, this is my Cut and ... it shows the wear and tear of riding tens of thousands of miles.  In the heat, I sweat like a pig and my vest is proof with all the 'salt' it soaks up giving it a really weathered look.  I wipe it down often to 'clean' the salt off it, but it needs a lil more love.  I've got some Doc Baileys to clean it up and dye it a lil; thats my next project ... maybe give it some life ...   revive it a lil.

But that's not the point of this post.  Minimailist or All in?   What belongs on the Cut? In your face or Low key with blacked out patches?  

A big subject that always comes up is ...   a setup where the entire chapter has a template of sorts to wear it the same way.  Hell, the entire Association the same way.   you know, Chapter patch in this spot, RoadName in that spot, US Flag top left, etc, etc, etc   Again, this ain't going to fly no matter what mine or other's opinions are on the subject.  One read through the forum on this subject and it's eveident why.  We are not an MC; we are an association.  And if anyone thinks they get get that By Law Change in place .. well .. go for it.  What about the thousands that would be grandfathered in? What do you do about the few that would flip the bird and say fuck no?  Is the Chapter going to pay to put them on or change them up?    

Me personally, I believe we should have a set standard on the layout.  If nothing else, a guideline of sorts  for new members when they start to lay out the basic patch(es) arrangments.  I've started to put one together, then get side tracked.  I've got a second cut I'm working on for special events, etc (pristine and minamilist) but always seem to get side tracked. Mostly blacked out patches except for the Back Patch. Before I get everything sewn on though, I'm going to create the template to work off and nudge it towards newbies as an example when questions get asked.  

But the fact of the matter is .. there is no set template/layout.  IMHO, there will never be.  But, can't hurt to try?  I've seen a few chapters out that have a pretty 'clean' layout.  Hopefully ....   our Chapter can get there eventually

AR State Meeting 2025

 Whew .. I'm beat!

Rolled out Friday morning with Chief and Kat around 0900.  We'd planned to head out earlier to beat the heat and rain .... but...  weather forecast changed and so did we along with it.  Lucy was supposed to roll with us but the storm from the previous days caused her RA to flare up and she pulled the plug.  Long weekend for her dealing with this shit ....   Well, we took the 'long way' heading up to Paris to grab 195 over to Oklahoma then 37 onto 70 for the rest of the way.  Lots of beautiful 2 lane riding along the way and we took our time since check in at the hotel was 1600 hrs. Purred along at about 5 over, stopping several times to stretch the legs and stay hydrated.  Temps stayed nice and the skies blue for our trip.  Did have a few closer calls with upwards of a half dozen different situations with idiots in cages pulling out in front of me ...   grabbed the brakes a few times, but not skidding.   Hell, Chief jokingly asked me if my headlight worked! Survived it all and rolled up around 3 and got checked in early.  So quick clean up, change to some fresh clothing and headed downstairs for a cold one.  I walked up to the door at 1558 hrs and smiled as they opened it up for me.  On my second one, I find myself getting molested from behind and turn around to find my close Friend Donnie laughing his ass of.  WTF?  I intentionally didn't tell him I was coming so I could surprise him Saturday morning and make some afternoon plans... but .. he's standing there smirking.  He saw the bikes outside and spotted mine....   asked him how the hell he recognized it ...  his reply? "The only one that wasn't clean .."  Hey now!  But .. it's true.  I ride it .... not sit around and polish it!   Hahaha..  Anyhows, we had a sip or two, he and Jill headed out for dinner and we would catch up with each other Saturday.  Soon, Chief and Kat are down and Donnie and Jill offer to drop us off at the meet n' greet at the VFW... score!   The VFW is hopping, bikes are rolling in and it's packed inside!  The Local CVMA Chapter has a great buffett of BBQ inside, bar is pouring cold ones and ... just a great time.  I run into one of our previous members (Foster) who had xfer'ed many moons ago to this chapter and catch up outside smoking stogies.  After awhile, I notice the hotel van is loading up with some folks and Chief is waving me over.  Screw it .. jump in and we're headed back to the Hotel for some tunes and cold ones at the bar. Ocho is in the house as well and we run into each other multiple times over this trip.  They've got a really good Blues band playing so works out well.  And throughout the evening lot of civilians buying our rounds ...   not too shabby

Saturday morning and headed down for breakfast.  The Hotel Hot Springs has buffett breakfast not too bad and we've got vendors rolling in on the 2nd floor for the meeting.  By 1000hrs we're swiping in (final one needed for my Tri-State LRRP tab) and 1115 the Honor Guard is posting the colors and we're starting the meeting.  Approximately 275 members in attendance, similar to last years... not too shabby.  Texas rolled in with more about 15% of that with 36 members!  Oklahoma was right behind us with 30 something....   Meeting was pretty short, they auctioned off a huge cart of alcohol and goodies which Skrape took home ($800?). Once we were out of there, headed upstairs to offload the cut and headed on a walk about with Chief and Kat.  First Stop, Copper Penny for lunch and refreshments.  Second Stop, Ohio Club.  Third Stop, Rooftop bar nex door at The Waters (hope to stay here in the future). Then worked our way back and just as we walked up towards the Hotel, Donnie and Jill found me again!  So, doubled back the way we came for a great dinner at The Brick House Grill.  Then, back to the hotel for a evening CVMA event on the Second Floor and catching up with all.  Got to chat with so many Brothers and Sisters over these last two days ....  Cray-On, Skrape, Ozzie, Ollie, Ocho, Gus, Cornfed etc, etc...  Have to admit..... never.. enough time.  Hopefully one day in the near future, spend some of that visiting as quality time around a campfire telling war stories and truly learing more about each other.  Well, on a positive note hit the hay early .. because ... Sunday .. we roll home.

We'll find ourselves on the bikes by 0730 headed west back the way we came.  We're not 30 min down the road when I get a bird strike off my fairing making me duck and feathers flying everywhere (per my witnesses behind me).  Then a few deer up ahead crossing in front of us, but no issues.  Hell, at least no cages trying to kill me this time?  It's only 250 miles each way and after another relaxing ride at five over on mostly 2 lanes, home early just a lil after noon.  Soon, clouds are rolling in and one realizes we lucked out with the awesome temps/weather.   

Next Year ...  AR State Rally is held in Rogers/Fayetville area.  Already looking forward to it!

  

Why Nationals?

 I've been in the CVMA since early '18.  Lucked out into attending my first Nationals a few months later in El Paso.  Upon arrival I knew I'd found my 'people.'  Felt like I was back in my military days.  I have to admit it was somewhat overwhelming and I didnt grasp it all .. .but ... I made it.  We rode 750 miles each way in the hot Texas heat, in one day.  Rode with Dutch and Maestro and they were both wondering what they'd got themselves into (the ride).  Still, when it was in the rearview mirror, I finally began to grasp what I'd just attended.  Few thousand Combat Vets riding in for upwards of a week of meetings, good times and Brotherhood.  Funny thing was ... this was a smaller group... due to the location and temps.  

I was stoked for '19s but missed it due to a health issue.  Covid would screw us on '20, and in '21 another health issue.  I'd hoped to Iron Butt all of those, but .... not to be.  Since then I've Iron Butted (FTM) to the rest on "Day One."  Kentucky, Colorado, Minnesota and Georgia.  All those trips have been memorable.  All a great time.  Each one I meet more folks from around the country.  Every year, it feels like a Homecoming.  Few folks in the mix make it to EVERY years, with a shit load of Tabs on their vest as proof.  Spoke to a few this last trip that had made every single one since they'd joined ... over a dozen.  

But ... why go?  Hard to explain.  We have Chapter events and lucky to get several dozen members in the mix.  State and Regional events will get you several hundred max.  But when you're in a National Meeting and all rise and say the Pledge of Allegiance and you've got literally THOUSANDS of Brothers and Sisters in the mix, it'll raise the hair on the back of your neck! Chills down your spine.  Tears in your eyes.  In this mix one realizes the seriousness of the Orgranization.  The size and scope of it all.  And in the mix are the good times found with current and new friends/family.  And usually, antics around and at, the Host Hotel?  Of course in the mix are an array of vendors, the National Store is setup, and folks riding in the area and finding watering holes we can all migrate to.

Me personally, it's a great excuse for a Long Ride to/from the event.  Usually, we get 2-4 bikes in the mix.  Can't imagine if we could get half the chapter on one of them treks both directions.  Addtionally, if one participates in the LRRP program, the opportuinity for a Finish The Mission (FTM) completion is an option with an Iron Butt one direction in the mix.  And, if one want's to apply for Life Membership within the Assocation, attending Nationals is one of the requirements.

Is it worth going?  Hell yes.  I would assume one would ride in, but even if one caged or flew in if necessary, it's worth the trip.   Every year, upwards of 25% of the Assocation attends.  A large percentage of that percentage, are repeats every year. Not a simple feat since there are always costs involved.  Time away from our jobs if still working.  But ...   hell yes, it'w worth attending......

Syracuse NY is on the schedule for 2026.  Where will you be?

LA 6 State Mtg 2025

 Let me just sum up that one ... Great Time!

Five Bikes and a Chase Vehicle rolled out Friday morning down Hwy 69 bright and early around 0700 to beat the heat.  When we hit Mineola, I tapped an orange cone in a construction area with my left hwy peg and sent it flying behind me which had several bikes zig zagging to miss it .... succesfully.  Whew!  Then, grabbed Hwy 80 to Longview then headed SE for the next 150 miles.  We zipped along on 2 lanes at 10 over, riding fairly tight the entire way to our destination in Marksville LA.  Pulled up to the Paragon Casino around 1330, unloaded the bikes and checked in.  Well, 1/2 of us got checked in early and other half had to wait until 1500.....  so .. off to play some slots and sip some cold ones. Once we got checked in, borrowed Kathy's Kage and headed a block down on a liquor run, grabbed some fast food and ...  we're ready for night one.

I'd been here last year, same event and location but rode it myself.  Rained most of the way there,but not this time.  Didn't know many last year, but not this time; we're here in force. There's a meet n greet of sorts in the back area of the casinos that we migrate to, couple of bar stations set up, folks are rolling in and mingling.  Often, I'm not a fan of these (meet n greets in a conference room) but tonight it goes well.  Meet up with a few other Texas Folks, Wingnut's Brother and his bride are in attendance, Puddin and his bride from 23-3(?), Ozzy our new R5 rep and his wife, Ollie the LA State treasurer and his bride, Skrape rolls in (he's a wealth of info!) and I got to spend some time chatting with Bender getting to know him better.  We'd spend a lot of time with Boogeyman getting to know him; he rolled in by himself from the Beaumont chapter. After a few hours, many of us migrated to the Casino to throw some money away.  I don't know of anyone that won anything to brag about.  Me; down $100 then off to bed ....

Wake up and 'googled' the buffett and told it's open.  Few of us head down for the breakfast buffett .... that doesn't exist.  Whoops.  It's only open on Sunday Mornings.  Fucking AI bullshit lied ...  but find a place for grub and java and visit with the team. CVMA vests everywhere this morning so should be a good turnout.  Meeting starts at 1100hrs and it's a pretty full house.  Not as packed as the previous year I'm told, but guessing because the weather has been acting up.  We'd gotten lucky and beat the rain the previous day.  It'll rain on Saturday and get a few wet that roll out early. Well, meeting kicks off, lots of 50/50 tickets, raffle tickets for a gun, and an auction will occur right afterwards. Meeting... one hour.. BAM!  Wthin 90 minutes, everything is done, bars have been setup for a few hours, bloody marys pounded ... and ... we're 'done'.  We're aware of a Pool Party at 1400 in the Casino so that's the plan for all. Damned that was a quick meeting ....  I like it.

I'm scratching my head at the pool area.  Lot of kids everywhere in the water .  All the chairs around the pool are taken.  DJ is setting up and I'm thinking "God help us this is going to get Loud."  Swamprat finds an area on the backside of the Grotto bar with plenty of chairs and we're at the bar in the 'adult area' and I'm thinking ... "okay .. this will work" .. which it did. Bartenders were nice guys and made some stiff drinks.  Music wasn't too bad after all. And on this end, don't notice all the other people in the area.  Perfecto'.

Dinner...  that Buffett is rocking with all you can eat Steak, Shrimp and Crab legs.  Best part is...   Seniors (50+) 2 for 1. So instead of $40 a person, it's 1/2 that.   Score!  I'll end up stuffing my face with 5 plus buckets of Crab Clusters and other goodies getting my money worth. Most at seconds and got a good deal.  Still .... $20?  Nice.   Aftwards back to the Blackjack tables where me personally, dropped another $100, but gained back my previous nights losses plus more.  Pushed the $200 to the side, played with 'their' money for awhile until an hour or so later ..... they take it back.  Still, broke even and all them drinks were now 'free.'.   Not too shappy.  Hell, I was back upstairs before 10 and getting a good nights sleep ....  gotta ride home the following day.  

Plan is to be back on the bikes by 0700 but most of us are downstairs closer to 0600 BSing and ready.  But by 0700 all are ready to roll and we're doing it different this time.  To beat the heat, we're rolling up I-49 to I-20 and will be hauling ass.  Scooting 10-15 over, WAZE keeps us out of trouble with the PoPo and soon after noon, We're back in Hunt County.  Me personnaly, pull up to the house, jump off the bike, clean up and ten minutes later we're caging off for Brunch.  It's Sunday Funday!

Can't believe that trip came and went so fast.  Next up ......   AR State Rally ...   praying the rain stays away!

checking in

Parked for the weekend

First night meet n greet

Skrape : The Man the Myth

Lets get this meeting started!

Pool area

Grotto Bar / Pool area

Headed home

The Boyz

Home Sweet Home

 

NATIONALS 2025

 Had been thinking / planning on this one for a year.  Hell, my brain is already on '26!  This one didn't turn out exactly how I'd thought it would but had a great time as always.

My plan was to drop into Long Beach, MS as the 1/2 point, jump in the pool... hell, maybe take a nap .. then freshen up and head the rest of the way to Athens GA with a lil over 1k miles total in a day.  Easiest Iron Butt ever?  Yeah...   didn't play out that way.  I was rolling with Goose and SassyPants and we were making good time.  Instead of stopping, we opted to keep rolling.  Problem was right at the 1/2 point I hit a wall, due to deyhration.  I'd been hydrating the previous 24 hours but obviously not enough.  Took a shit load of waters and a Liquid IV to get my shit together, but once I got it all down, I was back and within minutes.. felt like 100%.  So, we rolled NE from there and up through Alabama and on to Georgia.  We'd pull in as the sun was going down.  Another thing worth mentioning; I had my full face on and damned it felt like a suana wearing that damned thing.  I prefer no helmet, but tend to wear my 1/2 helmet which I put on after hydrating.  I've really got to figure all that out.....

Once we had over a 1,000 miles for our Finish the Mission / Iron Butt, checked in to the hotel, grabbed a cold one as the bar in the hotel was a few minutes from closing.  Then, upstairs to unpack and cleanup, check in with momma .... and ...  off to zzzzzz and get ready for the next day.

Caught with with Dutch and EZOUT Thursday for lunch and caught up on things.  Still surprised they didn't do the Iron Butt; they did about 850 miles the previous day ...   I'll always go the long way for a few hundred extra miles as necessary.  Funny thing is we are all three staying at Marriott Springhill suites but on opposite ends of the town; same owners, diff locations.  I thought I was playing it smart being close to the venue but I was still several blocks away and didn't walk it daily so I might as well have stayed at the cheaper one.  I'd hoped to get some miles in on the bike riding in the area while there, but that didn't happen....  founds some good places to eat, do a lil sippin' and we had a great Bike Night on Friday.....   but pulled the plug early to make sure I was fresh for Saturday.

Saturday is the big day and they've chosen a great venue.  We fill up what looks to be 90% of it for the big day, lots of vendors everywhere, ran into lots of folks that I'd met the previois year in MN, and overall just had a great time.  Lefty, our Region V rep would become our National Secretary, Boomer would be elected National President and Cupcake elected to the AUX NBOD as Secretary.  Great showing from Texas!

On the way home, again I'd hoped to get a few nice miles in maybe up by Tail of the Dragon.  But, my baby girl and her Hubby are visiting Texas in a few days so I opt to leave a day early with EZOut and Dutch, rolling back over a 2 day period.  I stay hydrated this time with zero issues on the trip.  Hell, I made it home early enough to clean up and head our for a Sunday Funday with folks!

Next year is Syracuse NY for Nationals.  Over 1500 miles for that one.  Not sure I'm going to do the FTM for that one.  I know I will but... yet .. I'm thinking .. F' that's a long ride.  Hell, do I even need to go?  Well.. I've already got some reservations in the area.. just in case. I'm scheming to do a 1500 mi Iron Butt that way... but ...   they are really starting to 'hurt' nowadays.  Guess my ass is shrinking or something.....

3/4 of the way to GA

Hotel, checking in ....

 My Saviour on Friday

Place is big!

Bike Night Friday

Headed in for the meeting

Home Sweet Home

Building Brotherhood at the Chapter Level

Chapter Get togethers.  Brotherhood and Sisterhood.  Time spent with our CVMA® family.  So many ways to make it happen, yet... most don't?  

Chapter Meetings.  Usually, these are monthly and the most obvious. But as of recent I've heard a few people echoing what I used to say when I joined.  Too long and Boring. Info discussed of minimal importance.  Hell, I couldn't agree more.  Unless we're planning something, why should a meeting ever take up a full hour?  Personally since taking over as CC, we've been closer to 45 min max.  I think that's too long.  Hit the high points, New Business, Old business, Good of the Order, lets roll.  Actually, no reason that can't be 30 min?    Hell, I'm questioning why .. every month?  Why not every other month?   Hmmmm......

Rides.   To me, this is the BEST way to spend time with folks.  We ARE a motorcycle association.  Yet, it's like pulling teeth to get 50% of the chapter together for a ride.  It's simple to get 2-4 bikes together during the week/weekend, but .. what about the other 15-30 bikes?  I don't have the answer except to keep pushing and pushing.  But the point here is that is where you truly build comradarie.  Isn't that why most of us joined in the first place?  Hmmmmmmmmm

Bike Nights.  When I first joined we had a lot of meetups at Corner Street Pub that folks called "Bike Night". An excuse to get out on a Thursday night during the summer weather and it worked great.  Well, that closed down years ago and for whatever reason, we rarely do these now.  I rarely see ANY bike nights in the area like their used to be.  I don't push it personally for two reasons.  One, I travel often and always seem to have conflicts. Secondly, not too many places in the general area lend themselves to this.  Good motorcycle parking, central to most members, etc.  The Ball Joint in Wills Point is probably one of the better options, but it's too far south for most in my opinion.  Hmmmmmmmm

Family Night.  I've heard a few complaints on this one... "when I was at my last chapter we had family nights..."  Now, this is normally from folks that still have kids which is the minority of our Chapter.  However, if THEY would put it together, maybe a lot of the chapter would show?  Maybe something like https://shenaniganz.com in Greenville? Wouldn't be my first pick, but if I had kids and wanted to bring them and have other members hang, maybe would?  Hmmmmmmmmmm

Other Chapter Events ( Sanctioned, Rides, Meetings, Etc) .  This is a big one to me that I utilize often.  Throw a leg over the bike and head to other Chapter's Sanctioned events inside and outside of Texas.  I've met so many other folks this way and see them all over the place in OK, LA, AR, MS, throughout Texas and annually at Nationals.  I own and ride a motorcycle and get to put some actual miles on it this way!  But, why don't most others?  Hmmmmmmm

So many options and I keep exploring all of them.  We have to have our meetings but my thought is keep them short, to the point and lets enjoy our Brotherhood / Sisterhood and spend some quality time as a Chapter together.  Perfect example is today we've got a meeting at the American Legion.  We've got a plan to ride to Westminster following the meeting.  Folks can grab lunch and drinks at the Gar Hole. Get patches sewn on at the Motorcycle Outpost.   Hang out and swap stories, and kindle friendships.  Here' in an about five hours we'll test that theory.  How many bikes will roll? How many will say "I didn't know or I would go." or "Next time ..." .. or ...   something else.  Hmmmmmmmmm

NATIONALS 2026

 What to do ... what to do.   Doing the 1k for the FTM is a no brainer.  BUT, I've never done the 1500.  Doing it in 36 hrs seems like a no brainer.  But , 24?  Tempting.   But, 30?  Not too bad.   Guessing I'll shoot for the Gold and if shit happens and it well... doesn't happen, gives two other options?

FTM - 1,000 miles.

Iron Butt - 1,000 / 1500 miles

_________________________________________

Saddle Sore 1000     1,000 miles in 24 hours

Bun Burner 1500     1,500 miles in 36 hours

Bun Burner Silver    1,500 miles in 30 hours

Bun Burner Gold      1,500 miles in 24 hours

DTP

 Distingued Trailer Program?  Maybe, Distingued Cagers?  You know... folks that either trailer to everything or cage to everything and have an excuse why their bike is in the garage or on that trailer?  Or Cage with a group and want validation for "participating?"

Funny part is .. I've got 3 trailers in my driveway for various vehicles to be transported.  I've had several Toy Haulers that I'd used to put my bike(s) in for motorcycle rallys and weekend getaways.  But ...  always cognizant of the fact that ...   we should always be on two wheels when possible.

Problem becomes ... when folks want to normalize or justify,  then somehow 'count' ... those cage/trailer moments  ... miles ... as legit.    Tsk Tsk .....

Which Level are you at?

 I've always in my personal life considered that I've had 3 circles of friends.

• First can usually count on one hand; the ones that you can call for just about anything and they are there.  Your 'best' friends.  
• Majority of friends are in the second circle.  Mine has many dozens in there.  You consider them good friends.. maybe even close.  Some rotate between the first and second circle over the years. You see them out and about and events, parties, cook outs, work, you name it. 
•  Then the third or outer circle... everyone else?   That's the short version of how I  view my personal life.  Clean. Simple.  Sort of .......   but life is complicated.  What about our work environments?  Or Social environments...   well, glad you asked :)

In Groups or Associations or Organizations.. you name it..   we've got the same thing.  I'm not going to reference it as circles .. maybe .. levels?  Guess it doesn't matter exactly what reference, the outcome is the same.  

• Level 1:  These are the folks that volonteer or appointed or promoted, to positions that sustain the organization.  They make the decisions.  They show up at most if not all meetings and events.  They make the wheels turn.  They ensure it continues to exist.   But sadly, this is usually a small perecntage.   I'm going to say .. and I'm being on the nice side .. .10%    Think about that for a second ...   a whopping 1 out of 10 "git er' done."
• Level 2:  These are the folks that show up at most meetings.  They show up for rides.  They show up for get togethers within the orgainization. Participate in fund raisers. They might wear clothing that shows pride in the organziation. They volunteer if needed sometimes.  But ... what's the percentage?   I'm guessing best case .. 20%.  That means between Level 1 and Level 2 we've accounted for less  than a third of an organization.   And that's being generous... I sometimes think that second group is closer to 10% also.
• Level 3:  They show up once in a great while.  They chime in on communciation once in awhile.  They pay their annual dues (assuming there is any) on time.  They show up for situations that require a vote.  They are actually the core of the organization (statistically).  But they rarely if ever volounteer. They never dedicate their time to the orgnization.  They might need to be reminded to pay their dues.  Show up annually as a minimum. They are on the rolls contributing to the total body count?
• Level 5:  Yes I skipped one.. I'll come back to it.  This level might be the poisonous ones.  There always seems to be 1 or 2 out there in the mix.  They bitch. They whine.  Or just as bad (worse?), backstab when given the chance.  Maybe they rarely paticipate but spew BS when out n' about?   Hell, they may put on a persona' of team player when their actions are the opposite.  These ....   are one of the biggest problems and not always easy to identify .. or .. rectify?
• Level 4:  Thought I forgot one?  These are the slugs that have to be reminded to show up at some point.  Those that have to be reminded pay dues EVERY year?  Usually have every excuse to not participate or show.  Yet ...   they might account for 10% of the total in an organization.  These folks will wear you out.  But, they someway , somehow , meet the minimum standard .. and continue to exist.

Too Harsh?  Nah' .. I had to really think about it all.  Personal experinece in multiple organizations of the last few decades.  I normally just quote the 20/80 rule.  I've been corrected a few times lately that its' closer to 10/90.   The smaller number is the percentage of people that may do the majority (larger number is a percentage of the slackers) of the work.   I've lived by the 20/80 the last several decades when I first heard about it.  Hell, you could take it one step further.  In some situations (workplace) 20% may account for 80% of a companies' revenue.  Wrap your head around that one? Thats why so many companies churn through sales folks every year.  My guess is 33% every year jump ship looking for a new Pay Plan .... stumble.. then do it again a year or two later.. and .. again. Funny note.  When I'm hiring people and they tell me how successful they are, how much money they made a company, flags go up.  Why are they leaving then?  Time to dig deeper......

But, back to this one. Level 1 and 2 are the true backbone of an organization. Most people do NOT want to be a Level 1.  Me... I've rotated between Level 2 and 1 the last decade and a half, at least in the motorcycle world.  I love Level 2, but sometimes you've got to get in the mix at Level 1 to institute change.  Or to ensure a proper direction continues.  Otherwise... shit can go south and ...  one considers' the other levels?  No thank you ..............