Letter from Rick
What can I say about November other than it was a month of riding! Last minute North Carolina riding blitz to complete the Carolina Challenge contest in mostly sunny (but chilly) weather. Inside I share the MUSCAngel Tree Christmas Parade. Big shout to ViciAmanti and Carolina Chrome Babes Brittany Erin,Ashtyn and JoJo for letting me be a part of this great children's charity!Also in this issue is Rockabillaque! Such a fun event. Check it out next year!
I’d like to take time to thank each and every one that has liked my blog page and followed my travels around South Carolina and neighboring states during 2018. Did I accomplish everything I wanted ? Nah, but hey, those unfinished things are now next years resolutions. Take time to be with friends and family. Remember the ‘Reason for the Season’.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Be sure to visit my YouTube videos as well. They’re not perfect, but I’m working to improve the content of them as well. See the closing pages for YouTube address.
As always, be sure to check out Carolina Cycles and sign up for their free newsletter. You can find Carolina Cycles on the web https:// www.carolinacycles.com/ or on Facebook carolinacyclesdotcom
Ride safe! Ride Often!
I would love to hear your road stories and share them with others in my newsletter. If so, just email your story and send a few pictures to: storiesroad53@gmail.com
On the Cover Down
Ride Safe
Are you ready for that long road trip?
Acouple of years ago, I decided I was going to use my motorcycle as my primary transportation. This was not made lightly. Two factors helped me decide I should ’go for it.’First, I had a backup car (my wife’s) in case I needed it for any reason. Secondly, my daughter was starting college and didn’t have a car. So being the great dad I wish I was, I let my daughter borrow my Colorado Chevy truck. (I love that truck) So, if you’re thinking about long trips on a motorcycle, have a motorcycle license and at least 12 months of riding experience, read on. Otherwise, get that much-needed experience on the kind of bike you might want to buy later.
If your motorcycle road trips start with asking to borrow a motorcycle, boots, and clothing, then you might want to consider buying your own ‘stuff.’
I’m assuming you passed the 3 basics listed above, but don’t know what kind of bike to purchase or what other things you might need. Here are some tips to consider.
1.) What kind of motorcycle should you buy? If you don’t already own a bike, consider renting a touring motorcycle to determine if it’s for you.
2.) Your choices are down to a couple of bikes. Know the fuel ranges. Why is this important? Considering some distances between gas stations can be extreme, and some bikes might only have a fuel range of a hundred miles, it would be wise to know this before putting your money down. Consider what your riding style will be and purchase your bike accordingly.
3.) Weather or not? Your bike is ready, and
your tank is full. Time to hit the road for several days of riding! Knees in the breeze and sun on your face! Or will it? Knowing the weather for the next several days will help you pack the things you will need or indicate a rescheduling of your trip may be necessary. Check the weather.
4.) Let the iron butt run begin. Maybe. But how far have you ridden a motorcycle in a day? Riding a bike 500 or more miles a day and again the next day can quickly wear down a body. The mileage YOU ride will depend on the type of bike you have, the average miles you usually ride from day to day, and the stamina of your body to endure daily rides of more than 500 miles. Honestly, 500 miles is an aggressive daily ride for anyone. Consider dropping the daily mileage to 400 miles or less. Stop every 100 miles or so and enjoy the view.
5.) Don’t buy your gear the day before your ride. What I’m saying is, don’t wait until the day before that anticipated ride to go out and buy riding pants, rain suit, helmet, and gloves. Arain suit, riding shirts or pants that are too big and flapping in the breeze can be very annoying.Aheadache caused by a helmet that is too tight or one that is too loose may shake around your head causing your eyes to vibrate and distort your vision. Buy your helmet and gear way in advance. Get some miles under your belt using them to know they will fit you correctly on that long ride.
So, you’re ready for that long road trip. Knowing your equipment is right for you will make that road trip the most enjoyable riding adventure you can have!
Ride safe!
Waterin’ Hole
The
Filling Station
Cheers. That popular bar in Boston Mass, where ‘Norm’ comes through the door and everyone knows his name. My first visit to The Filling Station was similar to that. My mission to be there was magazine business related. While sitting near the entrance, I noticed as someone entered the establishment, everyone seemed to know their name. What more could you want from a neighborhood bar?
It has been a year or more since that visit. Recently I heard that the friendly bar was going to close. I was somewhat surprised at the news as concerts and events were had there on a regular basis.
One of my friends was a bartender
their, so I visited her a few days before The Filling Station was to close the doors one last time.
Tammy Hinson, owner of The Filling Station, posted on Facebook how she felt about the bar and her staff.
Quote ‘...I just want to say that I appreciate and love all of you...its been one hell of a ride! My staff has been my right hand and I cant thank all of them enough for being here and holding it down when i couldn't. All of you are my family and I never say goodbye to my family....its always see you later...’
Tammy is dealing with some serious health issues and can no longer give the support she felt it deserved. I don’t personally know Tammy, but everyone I have spoken too has nothing but the highest respect for her.
And so do I.
Rick Hood
The following pictures can’t do this great little bar justice. Did I say little, hardly. Some things had been removed due to the closing, but you’ll get the gist of what a place this is!
Around the bottom of the bar were several murals. Like I said, this is truly a great place. A deck in the back made for an even greater social experience! I hope to see this place open again soon.
You want to go the Rockabillaque
So, you’re going to Rockabillaque in Charleston, SC –Your day will be filled with music, cars, bikes, and people. Lots of people! Do you like cars? They got classic cars. Do you want bikes? They got vintage bikes. Do you love live music? They have your rockabilly on at least four outdoor stages and a wide variety of contests from pin-up girl pageant to beard and mustache. However, before you embark for a fun day on Montague Street and Park Circle, here are some things to consider. Firstly, parking. The act of hunting for a place to park similar to an animal hunting for food. Second, people. Lots of people. It’s a scientific fact that gathering people into smaller spaces encourages engagement. So be prepared to ENGAGE! Last but not least, the FACILITIES if you know what I mean.
Sacraficing the Kids
Parking. Circling the block several times to find that elusive parking space. Similar to a dog circling to lie down.
Parking. Circling the block several times to find that elusive parking space. Similar to a dog circling to lie down. Will you be riding a motorcycle or driving a car? Do you have a secret need to brag about your good parking fortune?
“I’m going to win!”
I’ve always had the need to get as close as possible to any event I attend. Even the gym parking lot was not safe from my need to park next to the door. Is there something wrong with me or is there a psychological science for this need? Having my motorcy-
cle significantly reduces the unavailability of parking spaces. Even with that advantage, there’s a feeling of accomplishing something great when I find one. If you’re an extrovert, finding that space is like an animal searching for food or a fox guarding her den. Hey, it’s a parking space, not your personal territory. There will be lots of parking trolls competing for limited space and thinking “I’m going to win!”. Sacrificing the kids to go lie down in the space should not be discounted from strategy options.
Engagement
There have been scientific studies to determine the best festival layout that will attract festival attendees.
Yes, this is important. There have been scientific studies to determine the best festival layout that will attract festival attendees.
It seems that events where the venue is somewhat smaller than the number of people attending the events
space will enjoy the closeness of this event. By noon, elbows will be a-rubbing, and non-intended body contact will be in abundance stimulating the extrovert’s reward and pleasure system activated by their dopamine neurotransmitters.
Introverts, you might want to stay home and read. I might suggest
Promotes more human engagement? What 'Tomfoolery' am I talking about?
promote more human engagement. Promotes more human engagement? What 'Tomfoolery' am I talking about? The extrovert that was willing to sacrifice their kids to obtain a parking
‘Introvert Survival Tactics: How to Make Friends, Be More Social, and Be Comfortable In Any Situation (When You’re People’d Out and Just Want to Go Home And Watch TV Alone)‘
The Facilities
Those little purple fiberglass huts along the street curb are public restrooms and are gender neutral.
Facilities. Those little purple fiberglass huts along the street curb are public restrooms and are gender neutral. I should point out A Public Restroom Etiquette class for ‘The Impatient, Potentially Violent Moron’ will be held at 11 A.M. Later our class will divide into three sections, depending on what you identify with: stubby, shorty, or uncertainty. If you are here looking for a free meal, you might try Lowcountry Harley Davidson. Dave is out front grilling burgers and hot dogs. Free while they last!
Great. Let’s start. First off, the basics before heading out into the crowds. Say, you have to go to the bathroom while standing in the street crowded with people. Here
are some tips!
There are several options. Here are the two I recommend. If you're having a conversation, abruptly leave while grabbing your friend or frantically shout while holding your legs together, “OH NO. OH GOD NO. NOT AGAIN.” These exits make it clear you don’t mess around when it comes to urination. Having a partner hold onto your shoulders during your frantic departure will heighten the urgency of the situation.
Remember the purple huts I mentioned? Some people have an aversion to using these oases of bodily functions. If you have this phobia, wandering around for ten to thirty minutes finding a restroom is a reality. Restaurants frown upon nonpaying customers using their toilet. Don't fret! I've perfected a technique which works. Firstly, the approach taken
to bypass the bathroom Nazi's depends whether you're solo or with a friend. If you're solo, find a table of 2 or 3 persons. Approach the table and ask if it's ok if you sit down to hide from your ex. This technique works particularly well with women. Once seated, be sure a waiter has seen you sitting there. It doesn't matter if the table is assigned to the waiter or not. The point is to be seen sitting down in the restaurant.
After exchanging pleasantries, excuse yourself. Ask a waiter where the restroom can be found, remember, holding your legs together amplifies the appearance of urgency. If the occupied sign on the door is on, try shaking the door in a way that suggests you haven’t taken your medication lately, and all that separates you from a horde of monks, and your salvation is the door to this
restroom.
Perhaps nothing will come of your efforts, but don't fret!
Passive aggression is the sneaky brother of active aggression that, without admitting anything is wrong, gets what you want. Coughing, shuffling your feet loudly and complaining to people next to you are forms of passive aggression added with comments such as 'Like
what is she/he doing in there anyways? I might get the manager.' This should speed up the process, especially if you start counting down loudly. If you’re with a friend, follow all of the previous actions. Your friend, pretending to scan the room, will be the ex you’re hiding from.
Rick Hood
The Sights
There are LOTS of cars and motorcycles to be seen at Rockabillaque. But not many get to share the event with the Carolina Chrome Babes, Carolyn, Karisa, Ashtyn, Brittany Laura, Ashley and Vici (AKA Mama). Here are a few pics from Rockabillaque. You’ll need to bring your own babes!
The Chrome Babes kept me company
See, there were some cars there
And the winner of the Beard and Mustache Competition is…...
MUSC Angel Tree
The MUSC Angel Tree Board, is the largest contributor in South Carolina to the Salvation Army Angel Tree. Their main focus is to bring as much holiday magic to those in need as possible.
Vici Amanti, owner of MinT Photography, is known for her photographic magic around Charleston and abroad. Her eye for that perfect shot ranks among the best in the business. So I was more than honored when she invited me to drive for her dur-
Karen Collins, the coordinator of the parade, organized the bikers meeting at Low Country Harley Davidson. KSU was 10:30 A.M. and followed a 7.5 mile route down I526 and I26 to Ehrhardt Drive in downtown Charleston.
dren. I look forward to doing this again next year!
Her eye for that perfect shot ranks among the best in the business.
ing the 15th annual MUSC Angel Tree Christmas Parade. Yeah, that’s right, I said drive. She needed to take some motion shots and ask me to drive her vehicle while she stood through the sunroof to take shots of the riders. Nothing couldn’t have been cooler than to see I526 and I26 blocked to allow the motorcyclist to parade to Ehrhardt Drive, the official beginning of the parade.
Needless to say, I had a blast driving for Vici and Chrome babes Brittany, Ashtyn, and JoJo AND attending the event getting some shots of my own.
It was great seeing the expressions on the children’s faces as the motorcycles made the turn in from of the MUSC Children’s Hospital. So many people showed up to give to these children that otherwise have no gifts Christmas morning. What a sight to see the generousity poured out for these chil-
Rick Hood
Karen holds a riders meeting at Low Country Harley Davidson before the ride to downtown Charlestown.
JoJo taking a break among the stuffed toys in the ‘Horseshoe’ while Ashtyn takes a short break for that photo-opt I’m desperately looking to get! Vici even pauses a second to get in on one of the shot with JoJo.
Brittany, Ashtyn and JoJo were not alone receiving toys for the children. Many people showed up in special attire to make this a memorable event for the kids.
And then came the bikes!
Marching bands, bag pipes and gifts came around the corner
Not to be out done, Mr and Mrs Santa made an appearance on the CanAm Spider decked out there finest attire! Wait a minute how did I get in this shot? And who are them characters surrounding me? The Chrome babes seem to know them, so I’m going to find out who there friends are.
The fresh fruit looked good, but I came hungry! So, I
Behind the Scenes
All work and no play makes Rick a dull boy. There was even time for a little fun! Special thanks to Brittany and Vici Amanti for sharing some behind the scenes pics!
Even Ashtyn wasn’t safe from the ‘SnapChat Queen’!
Is that Vici standing up through the sunroof? Don’t do it Vici, everything will be fine! JoJo is officially a, ummm, I think a Bunny
In My Opinion
Rick’s thoughts on just about anything
I pulled over to the side of the road to check out Google Maps for directions. After I finally think I’ve got them committed to memory, I close the app only to discover I still can’t remember the directions. I go back on to Google maps to try again. After several cycles of this routine, I have it! As I’m riding down the road, I get to thinking about the science of memory. Things like at what point does short-term memory become long-term memory? Haven’t you ever wondered about that?
So, my mind goes to work. Here’s a tongue in check glimpse of that process and the results. Have you ever considered memory loss as the new medical treatment that’s sweeping the globe? Whaaat you may ask. Let’s say there was a new medical movement called Make Amnesia Great Again (MAGA). Here’s how it might work. At Amnesia House of America, we have decided to embrace Alzheimer’s and other neurocognitive diseases, in the way that scientist look at extraordinary claims but with the glassy-eyed hope that it is true if we believe hard enough. Much like Socialism.
It’s like taking a page out of nature’s book, the one that’s brutal and has trouble with English. But with MAGA's help, maybe we can fold that page into a paper airplane or a snowflake to impress your friends. When you see the snowflake you will say, You’re denying your problems exist again, aren’t you? Why, yes, yes I am.
The treatment is all about taking perceived negatives and transforming them into positives. Let’s take dandelions in your lawn. MAGA no longer considers them weeds if you think they belong there. And as they take over the rest of your yard, it’s like, Hey, that’s totally cool. It’s all natural, man.
The MAGA movement likes to call it alternative science, which is like normal science but with herbal tea extract, Krishna, and a bottle of rum. So, maybe we did conduct our clinical trials in a high school science lab. And sure, perhaps they didn’t all go so well, and yeah, maybe Johnny is still missing. The point is that he seemed far too happy for someone with that many needles in him.
Whatever. The point is that the most potent antidote to
your problems is to forget they exist, Who are the happiest people in the world? Retirees. Not remembering what happened for the first thirty years of their lives, suddenly losing your car keys, playing bingo and forgetting to put on your favorite underwear sounds really great, right?
MAGA takes retirees, happiness, memory loss, the movie Memento and combines them to form our new age treatment. We at MAGA firmly believe that science is far better when the parts that don’t make sense are made up. We know we're right when words like correlation, causation, sound hypotheses, and basic science are used. Using a laboratory-tested brick, we hit your cerebral cortex until you lose most of your early childhood memories or forget you hate your husband or wife.
Now you might be thinking - ' Should I pay someone to hit me in the head with a brick? And that part about old people and happiness. I'm not buying it. Sounds way too much like a crazy scheme to steal my money.' Well… yes, there’s lots of alcohol involved. The basic procedure involves lots of drinking until your short-term memory looks like an omelet in a frying pan.
Okay. Let’s try a different approach to explain it. Suppose you’ve had this “surgery,” and it “worked.” no longer remembering anyone or anything up to fifteen minutes ago. Simple things like eating, sleeping, rediscovering how much you like Krispy Kreme donuts, and staring at a television that’s turned off, are now your life, and you are content.
Forgiveness can be as hard as calling the Department of Human Health Services to apply for food stamps, but THE solution is amnesia! Can't get past issues? It's simple when you don’t have any memory of them. No longer will problems with family, politics, climate change, your mortgage, your co-workers, dental cleanings, and Steve. Nirvana has never been so easy. Sure some of you “haters” may say that without forgiveness, personal growth is impossible without forgiveness, or our lives would be filled trying to remember whether we’d left the burner on back home without memory. Well, people with Alzheimer’s don't have memory loss problems; it’s the people without Alzheimer’s that do. No one would have a problem if everyone had Alzheimer's. Wow, you say. Thank you for showing me the path of reason.
You’re welcome. So, what do you say to a lifetime of asking directions and then happily driving around your block for the rest of the day? How about getting the rush of seeing The Matrix Trilogy for the first
time again and again? Forgetfulness, like magic beans, change your world. At Make Amnesia Great Again, we only offer you the beans. Man, scary isn’t it. Well, when riding my bike for hours on end, my gray matter comes up with some interesting things. All kidding aside, Alzheimer disease affects millions of people. I can only hope one day this horrible disease will be a thing of the past
Rick Hood
https://www.youtube.com/user/hoodboomer
@storiesfromtheroadtravel
https://www.carolinacycles.com/
