What it is we will examine later. First the all-important stats, 110 miles, 7 Sandies  and we ate at the Outpost. Yes Rose, that Outpost of  local Motorcycle fame. Today it is known as the Oar House.    You would not recognize the place, it is completely  different. Food was good Staff outstanding. Jim and Anne   W  liked it. Oh I didn’t mention that Jim  and Anne  rode with us. Yep and it was simply outstanding to have them with us. It has been way too long for them Riding with us.  Now we also had Sandy S  along which always ups the weird quotient . The ride over was outstanding, weather perfect in the mid 70’s.  Gotta thank JoeJoe  for outstanding  Sheepdoging .   Now for that ugly rumor that usually when I lead a ride I bring on rain. Okay so it rained today but it is a coincidence. So weather folks said no rain and then it rained .  I realize that seems to happen a lot on my rides lately . But again I think it’s just coindence not some punishment from the Road Gods for some transgression..   In spite of the rain it was great Sandie Ride, good food and most of all great friends.       Reminder Next Sunday is Toys For Tots 9 am GTD. Lets ride together to The Harley Shop.

No, its not “Car 54 WERE ARE YOU”? If you can remember that chestnut you are just plain Old. No excuses you are Ancient, still hanging in there and Riding but… .   Actually, that my fellow swamp butt Sandies was today’s ride temperature riding on 285. Speaking of riding we had 11 Sandies , that my fellow travelers is great number of Sandies. A little soap box’en, a lot of the OG clubs aren’t even around, we can still put 11 Riders  on the road ?  That is pretty damn good adding that to 45 years of being around makes us doing something right.   Okay back on the Food Journey oh which we did 151   miles.  That number is a Certifiable Can-Am Mileage Count which make it Super Duper Accurate and  better than all others. By the way some of you Sandies are also Certifiable, which is scary as hell.   The surprise of the day Gregg L  joined us, on a Spyder. Before you get all a flutter, Greg’s  BMW is the Bike Hospital. Jackie  graciously loaned Gregg  her Ride. Jackie has had the ride a couple of years and is a regular rider. I’m sure we will have a picture or two for proof.   First the good news, well maybe not that good, I guess it’s like okay news. Tim ( The Bishop) W  has returned, not in handcuffs on Con Air, which we expected. Tim  has returned from Sicily, voluntarily I might again add. Seriously, which means not at all, Tim  takes really good photographs. Tim’s  photos of Church’s are just fantastic. Good to have Tim  back with us . Tony G ’s S2S,  that  is Sea to Sky,  in Can-Am speak, was the subject of a photo session. Seems some folks wanted to have their picture taken next to that good look’n ride. Tony  let them and  didn’t even charge, if it was a pony there would be a fee.   Bobby B  can be a real butt head. So I tell him of our plans for this cruise Sam  and I are going on. I casually mention I made plane reservations for later in the afternoon after debarking. Bobby  slowly shakes his head, “What” ?   Bobby  then says ”You know you have just doomed your trip home don’t you” ?. Then leaves the conversation, What the hell, don’t leave me hanging damnit. Fill the prophecy why don’t you .   JoeJoe  was busy taking pictures , remarked his SD card was full. You see JoeJoe  uses a digital camera not a IPhone. Well there must be 10,000 plus Sandie pictures on that card. It must be an incredible Sandie history depositary . Should be a great look at. Chief  Joined us today and its always great to have Chief’s  company on a Sandie ride.   Joe and Melany W  took time from their hectic Travel schedule and enjoyed todays beautiful ride. It was a super day to just be on a motorcycle the Road, the Food and the best the Sandies

Six Sandies volunteered at the annual Santa Rosa Island Triathlon. Three were on two wheels and served as Volunteer Course Marshals and three were there supporting the community and club. There were no judges to transport this year, and the event was sold out. There seemed to be a bit more traffic this year, and our three Sandie Marshals had to work extra to keep riders moving to the right (passing on the left only) and keep vehicular traffic from bunching up an ruining their ride. Most participants were smiling through the pain and enduring one heck of a breeze as they rode out across the island. I clocked us at 137 miles , which was (more than) a few trips back and forth on the 13-mile course. This was our first year without M2 Sensei coordinating and he is sorely missed. JoeJoe , Munchkin , and I ran the course while the Cat Herder , Sam E , and Ace kept watch. After all was said and done, we rode over to Navarre Beach for breakfast at Andy D’s.

A bit about that later, first the Knitting, 7 Sandies traveled 205 miles  to eat a great lunch and tour Slocomb, AL.   Slocomb was not on our itinerary but these things happen, on a Sandie Adventure, sometimes .   When we left GTD this morning it was a marvelous day for an Adventure. The temperatures were almost Jacket weather, dry , just wonderful after this summer. Met Tommy  at the 285 exit, on the Connector. A bit later picked up Ken C  on Bob Sikes Rd.   Now we were a Balanced Sandie Crew, not familiar with the expression ? That’s when you have as many two wheelers as three wheelers, see you have a balance in The Force now.  We were headed to Hartford, Al. and Mom’s Restaurant. Getting there is enjoyable, we  ride on one probably the best section of Riding road in NWF. The section from Darlington, FL to the Alabama state line. This section is simply the best, curves that are a little technical, great road surface and some really pretty vistas. It is just a super nice riding experience.   The Tour of Slocomb came from Ken  and I talking about lunch. Ken  mentioned a country buffet place in Slocomb that was quite good. Well no Sandie turns down a chance to terrorize an innocent Buffet, especially with a recommendation like Ken’s . So off we headed to Slocomb. Let me interject something here, Our fixation on Buffets is so in our DNA that Bobby  proposed getting a small Cornucopia horns decal to put on the Rides. Similar to fighter pilots painting how many kills they have. Fortunately we nixed the idea, I mean our bikes would be covered on Cornucopia horn decals. Which would make other motorcyclists envious of our prowess and cause jealous reactions. All of this was for not anyway, the restaurant closes on Saturday. So it was off to Hartford and Mom’s. On a side note Slocomb has a really cool Tomato Festival.   As most of you are aware we use Sena Mesh to communicate between bikes and people. From this came a strange conversation. Are you familiar with the word “l exicology ” ? No, it’s the study of words and how they affect language. So, okay we pass some old pecan trees “I remark some nice looking old pecan trees”. Ken  replies  “no they’re not”, I said “Then what are they “ ?  “They are pee-can trees”, “Huh? I said they are pick-ahn trees. ‘No sir in Georgia, where we grow pee-cans, a lot of pee-cans” Then Bobby replies “its pee-cans, my family used to grow and sell pee-cans”. Well I hated to disagree but I felt I should hold up the accepted pronunciation for civilized folks everywhere. “Gentlemen, its Pick-ahn in the rest of the Universe” ‘Oh contraire, person from someplace other than Georgia”.  Even at lunch this word salad continued. JoeJoe then interjects “ All and all its been a nutty day”.  You can see just how low our conversations are, nothing  that  is the least bit intellectually stimulating can be conversed on.   At end of the  no matter how you pronounce  P-E-C-A-N. It is still spelled Pecan.   It was a great day of Riding with friends 200plus miles of laughs and just the joy of Riding.   Next Sunday is our business meeting 9 am Golden Corral.

Give up ? 12 Sandies  on a breakfast ride, on a Sunday, that took 140 miles.  We actually had  11 Rides but 12 folks. See this numbers thing gets complicated quick.  Got to say a great big Howdy to The Chief  and Peggy   O , haven’t seen those two good folks in a while.  They are a mixed family, Chief  with his Goldwing and Peggy  with her Harley. Been together a long time , proof folks of differencing beliefs, can give peace a chance. Joe  and Melanie   W  also joined us, Joe  we see more than Melanie , which I don’t know if it’s a good thing. ,I mean Joe is okay but Melanie  is, well, really nice.   Met up with most of The Sandies at GTD, Tommy  joined us up the road. Need to thank JoeJoe  for  doing an outstanding job at Sheep Dog. A good Sheep Dog makes or breaks a Ride, JoeJoe is super at Sheep Dogging, again thank you.     There is a road that every time I take it I’m amazed at it. It has a decreasing tight uphill left turn or the opposite if coming from the other direction. I threw that in there cause JoeJoe  pointed that out.  The feeling is exactly like being in North Carolina, it is uncanny just how much.   Now I call this The Bobby Road , cause the first time I rode it Bobby B  was Cat Herding the Ride. I am sure it was a Tim W  discovered road . I equate Tim   with Ferdinand Magellan, the Portuguese explorer.   Tim  not unlike Ferdinand finds all kinds of cool roads.     We had breakfast at Bubba Jacks in Freeport ,not a bad place to have breakfast. Just seeing the amount of traffic on the road I can believe it when I read Freeport is the fastest growing town in Florida. As you are aware Tony G has 19 gazillion ram mounts on his Spyder . Which Tony  uses to take those really cool videos with. Well I noticed that Mark S  is attempting to catch Ton y with stuff on the bar. But with Mark  his handlebar stuff is instruments. I mean I swear I saw an Altimeter  and a turn and bank indicator mounted on Marks handlebar *   It was a great ride to see all those headlights behind you gave you a great feeling. It’s always a fun ride if Sandies are involved. If it’s a Sandie Ride you know it’s going to be a lot of fun. ·       A word to the wise, expect some exaggeration. Oh hell, expect a lot of exaggeration and some forgetting the truth.

I’m talking about the Lego, stepping on it  barefoot will teach your kids a brand new vocabulary. Well 7 Sandies  did attend the Brick convention in Pensacola. It was about all things Legos. There where exhibits, Lego parts pieces, and figures. Some of these inch high figures were going for tens of dollars. Kits no longer in production easily hundreds of dollars. Ecto-1 the Ghostbusters 59 Cadillac Ambulance $ 450.00. The boat Orca from Jaws $500.00 . There were kids with boxes of Lego stuff  wheeling and dealing with vendors buying and selling. I had no idea the sub world of Legos was so huge.   First the stats for Sandie Lego Adventure, 110 miles  , weather in the morning outstanding. We arrived pretty early Tony couldn’t get a ticket, all sold out. But The Sandies never take no for an answer. With Skullduggery and Technology Tony   G  attended the Convention. Joejoe  just walked in , literally, opened the front door and strolled in. Now when you think about it, J oeJoe  could pass for a Lego nerd easily. The next time we saw JoeJoe he was at the Lego play area building stuff.    I stood in line while the rest stood in the shade as the line began to move here comes Sandy S  and Sam  with Tommy  following. All expecting to cut in line, au contraire, nope, not doing it. I mean Sandy  got a little miffed, then ignored me, when I  said in a loud voice “Hey no Cuts”. Well they paid no attention and cut in line anyway. Felt like Rodney Dangerfield, no respect.       When you go with Sandies anything may happen well somehow we found ourselves going in the opposite direction of the crowd. How I have no idea but I noticed this phenomenon pretty quick. It’s never easy going anywhere with the Sandies.  You need to see the pictures Sandy  and JoeJoe  took they are a pretty good representation of some of the more spectacular exhibits.   Apparently the coveted Lego Master Builder Title is the pinnacle of Legodom. It means you have reached the apex of building Lego structures and scenes. To give you an idea there was one Exhibit where the Builder designed Star Wars houses as if Franklin Lloyd Wright had designed them, very impressive. Just look at all the pictures of the Exhibit it was something.   It was crowded mostly with kids, as you would expect , there were a fair amount of adults.  A lot looked like they hadn’t left home and where living in Moms basement. It was a very diverse crowd to say the least.  Now granted some of the folks would scare the dead but everyone was having a good time and that was important.   As we left the Convention and started for lunch, we had spotted  850 Seafood Grill. It was outstanding food, great service and a bit different décor . On the way home , on the three mile bridge. We watched a Gulf Breeze pull over a high flying  motorcycle. Tony G ’s video ( link below)captures the moment.   https://www.facebook.com/garciaa5/videos/2172817086529238   It was a fun day, good friends, good food and fun stuff to do. Join us next trip, promise a great time.

Three Sandies  rode 176 miles to check out Camp 31 BBQ  in Brewton Alabama. We didn’t get started until after the Business Meeting, so we limited the ride to the quicker backroads with long sweeping curves. This worked out well because there was little to no traffic at all off the main highways, and the wind kept us from overheating. The ride to Brewton was nice. JoeJoe  relived glory days from zooming the Hayabusa through these very same roads more than a decade ago. It was strangely quiet, even for a Sunday. We enjoyed the sights and swooped through the long flowing bends in the road with ease. Camp 31 BBQ had a buffet, which surprised the three of us. Apparently, it was totally normal, but in our defense, George sent out a very confusing link to the Camp 31 in Canada. The food was good, and we had our fill. Tony  was a little surprised at the 10% sales tax. It seemed a bit steep, but maybe that’s normal for Alabama? We started heading back the way we came. I had planned a longer ride down Co Rd 4 through Wing Alabama before cutting down not Laurel Hill. JoeJoe  had other ideas. He recommended we take Beaver Creek Road south to HWY 4, and then we can cut over to Baker Florida. I typically don’t like to deviate from a route once it’s set. A lot can go wrong when you start meandering through random backroads and everyone is on the bottom half of their fuel tanks. I had the route back mapped and loaded and was looking forward to riding some of those roads just east of Mossy Head. Then I thought about how neither of them really lived out this way and could easily have taken 87 south back home after we ate. I also realized Joe ’s true intent was to go by the strawberry fields. How JoeJoe  was still hungry I have no idea – but I made the turn and down to Baker we went. Turns out Sweet Southern Farms  was open. I ushered Joe  to the front, and he quickly cut around and parked on the grass. Tony  took a bit to get his feet moving again, but even he was all smiles and laughs as we enjoyed some strawberry shortcake and ice cream on a warm September afternoon. We took our time and enjoyed the day. As we got closer to home the temperature started climbing. We decided to forego the obligatory fuel stop and book it back home before melting. Just as we reached HWY 90 I received a FL511 alert that all lanes of SR-285 were closed do to an incident. So it turns out that Joe's stomach detour into the strawberry fields was serendipitous! I made it home just before 2 PM. It was a great ride, and we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. We missed those that couldn’t make it and look forward to the rides to come.

The morning started out soooo nice for September in NWF Florida.  70’s for temps  lower humidity plus bonus Ken C  found some nice Canopy Roads. Okay knitting time 9 Sandies  and a guest, Skippy  friend of Tommy  and Ken s and I.   We did 200  miles  of simply beautiful roads, courtesy of Ken . Mission finally make it to Golden Rule Bar-B-Que in Andalusia AL. Ken  took us on a fantastic route to include around the Courthouse square (always a favorite of mine). Got to the Q Joint a bit early, Tommy  let us test ride his Spyder with the newly installed Pedal Commander . The purpose of the gadget is to greatly improve throttle response on the Spyder. Boy Howdy does it ! the response is all most instant.  Even Skippy  who drives a new GL1800, had to remark on the throttle control. Joe   W  thought the response was excellent but Joe  could see his gas mileage  disappear. With that  would be tire usage that would shrink way down. But oh that sweet response on the throttle makes you have dreams of sugar plums.   Tony G  took videos of the days ride, which you can find on our You Tube channel visit and subscribe to it also. Some of Tony’s  shorts have over a thousand views !!! https://www.sanddollarmc.com/sandies      Inside the Golden Rule they brought us house made pork rinds. Oh my, they  were so delicious, so good in fact I couldn’t finish my Bar-BN-Que plate cause I ate too many Rinds.  Now Ruddy Fry’s explained, they are a French fry made the old fashioned way thinner skins on . In other words full of Yum.    As we headed out from the restaurant, Ken  casually mentioned Strawberry shortcake, what !   You could swear you could feel, through the earth, ears perk up. Ken  took us to a spot in the road almost on the Florida line. No Shortcake but a nice helping of Strawberry yogurt .   On a side note  Bobby B, JoeJoe  and Tony G  DID get Strawberry shortcake, today. They stopped outside Baker FL to enjoy the delectable use of strawberry‘s in a shortcake.   As we left you could see ominous Clouds forming. Which JoeJoe  likes to inform you with, I swear, a gleeful tone in his voice. JoeJoe  is a retired Weather guy . So it was speculating where would it get us . Surprise ! we made it home dry. Well as dry as Florida humidity allows.    Thanks Ken for the good Ride.   Next week is a Ride to the Lego’s Convention in Pensacola  We leave GTD 8 am you can get Tickets at https://www.brickconvention.com/pensacola We are in the 10 am to 1 slot, get your tickets now should be a lot of fun

Give up ?? Answer below , today was just not a normal Breakfast Ride. I mean come on any Sandie Ride is subject to get off the rails quickly anyway. Today just had help getting there. Okay the stats 11 Sandies  , not a bad turn out. We did 125 nice miles   and most important home before Noon.   It starts with Sam  and I arriving at GTD  nice and early. Tommy  walks over and points to my front tire and says those words every motorcyclist hates to hear , “Ya gotta a flat tire”. My reaction “Ha Ha can’t fool me, brand new tires, so there “. “No I’m not fool’n’ says Tommy  with the serious Tommy  face. The same face highway miscreants saw  when Tommy  walked up to your car. Oh along with “May I see license, proof of Insurance and registration”. So I decided to make my own inspection. Yep, flat tire, Damn , well let’s get out the air pump. Tommy  has a good size air pump, makes short work of adding air. Mark  and Tony  inspect the tire, no obvious reason for the loss of air.   I  had dug  out my pump, Tony  looks at it and says in that voice every guy knows  “ Kinda little isn’t it “ ?  Mark chimes up with something similar. I sigh,  I guess its show and tell time. Remember in Crocodile Dundee when he says “You call that a knife ( substitute Australian accent) now this is a knife “. Well I say something similar ( less the accent) “you boys call those a pump’ ? ‘Now this is a pump”, holding up my Cycle Pump for all to see. With that put to bed, I look over and Booby B  and Ken C  are looking  on amused at all of this.   Joe and Melanie W   roll up at that moment. It is always neat to see the Joe  and Melanie  . What you ask is Sandy S  doing through all this ? Why being off the rails Sandy,  of course. Well actually Sandy  and Sam  are doing a FOD Walk. All of you Aviation types know what a FOD Walk is. It happens my front tires are short stem caps. How you ask ? I do not have a clue why. Sandy speculates that someone must have lost a stem cap somewhere in the parking lot. So Sam  and Sandy  FOD walked the lot, sadly nada, nope, none.   Tommy  having a AHA moment calls JoeJoe  (who is meeting us up the road). Tommy  asks if Joejoe  had any stem caps laying around the garage and if he could bring a few. Joejoe  said “ Sure I can find a few” remember this off hand answer, there will be a test after. We take off, meet up with JoeJoe . I pull over in Navarre to get a couple of caps. JoeJoe  walks up and hands me a box. What in the world ? Folks it’s a box of one hundred caps ! Who on God’s green earth has a box of a hundred stem caps outside of a motorcycle repair shop ?  Well if it’s a Sandie and its JoeJoe  there ya go. I take two, I could have filled my pockets but then what do I do with them.   We have breakfast at Andy D’s Roadhouse in Milton. Sandy ’s choice and a good one it is. We go for a short jaunt in the Blackwater. Those of you familiar with my history with the Blackwater know it was a while ago. But do ya think the Sandies have forgotten, not a damn chance ? Go over the bridge and some comedian will make a remark like “Hey George don’t forget to raise your feet “.  Or a “ Yes the launch of The SS Wing “.   On the way home I suggest we do an overnighter. Take the train from Mobile to New Orleans in the morning and return that night. Spend the night before and after in Mobile, folks seemed to really  liked the idea, well except one, Bobby .  It seems while in his Mom’s womb Bobby   must have suffered some kind of train trauma, at least I think so. Bobby  was quite adamant that he would not be on board the Mardi Gras Express with his fellow Sandies. Well its early, we can only bring that famous Sandie grind em Down. Sides a trip without Bobby  just ain’t a real Sandie Adventure.   I want to especially  thank Sandy S , JoeJoe  for the fabulous pictures.   Next Saturday the  Sandies are going to Andalusia to eat Bar B Que. Ken C   has graciously volunteered to do  The Cat Herding Duties..  I will send out the details as they come available.   It was one great day of time spent with friends, ate some very good food and rode some outstanding roads all with people you enjoy being with.

Four Sandies met up to ride the backroads in search of an early lunch. The heat was already setting in, so Tim W led us through as many shaded roads as he could loop together. We swooped around curves and hills, at least the best ones northwest Florida has to offer. We eventually made our way over to Dee’s Restaurant in Vernon. Unfortunately, there was a sign on the door saying they were opening late today. We were an hour early, and the heat was cranking up to near miserable levels. We cut over to the nearest gas station and topped off our tanks. Joe W ’s Spyder was being a little stubborn, so we took a moment to urge the machine onward while developing an alternate plan. Tim spotted a new -to-us restaurant called GiGi’s just south of Wausau. Off we went! 20 miles later and we stopped into a nice little country restaurant. This was a neat little oasis with a single tree offering shade. Naturally we circled our bikes around the tree and went in to eat. It was weird seeing other Sandies walk into the restaurant before JoeJoe. JoeJoe stopped to grab a couple of pictures before going into the restaurant. It’s a little small inside with about five tables and two booths. We ate well, ordering a BLT, fish, BBQ sandwich, and a burger. Three of us enjoyed a slice of cheesecake afterwards. GiGi's hit the spot and we were happily fed, it’s worth a stop back another day. So what's good? Everything! Since it was so hot and midday, Tim opted to take the express route home. Traffic along I-10 was thick but moving. I peeled off at exit 85 and took Bob Sikes back to 285. It was slightly slower, but well shaded. Overall, I clocked us at around 207 miles round trip.

Will explain later in the story the rather unusual  title.  But first today's Ride. We did 155 miles  today, dodged most of the mind numbing heat, until Shalimar.  There spontaneous Ignition became something to worry about.  Tim W  led todays ride, a superb mix of routes with some new outstanding roads mixed with old favorites.   Six Sandies got up to beat the heat and it was pleasant this morning. Bobby B  would fall back to have twisty road fun. Sometimes he would disappear completely. Which caused Sam to start hunting the young Bennet boy and like a bad penny, viola, Bobby appears. Must thank Joejoe  today he waited on the corner to make sure we saw the upcoming turn, thank you sir. The Sandies over the years have perfected to a degree, Group Riding. Our procedures and policies have come from our millions of miles riding as a group. They are a distillation of a lot of knowledge from some very very experienced Riders.     Breakfast today was at “ Panhandle Market and Restaurant “  a Tim  discovery. Tim  knows food stops not towns, like Jimmy Durante used to say “I gotta million of them “. The Market sells ice cream from “Southern Craft Creamery” . The title is just one of the flavors and boy howdy do they have some very eclectic flavors. Bacon Jam and Maple is another selection. They also sell milk in glass bottles with the cream in some of the bottles.   The Creamery is in Marianna we can also  stop at   Ocheesee Dairy  which is close by. Can you say Sandie Creamery Road Trip, can you say yum.  In the mean time I will organize an Ice Cream Foraging trip to PDL. Panhandle Market has a great breakfast ,  I think a lunch ride in cooler weather is definitely in order   Yes it got hot but we dodged the most of it, leaving early is the ticket. Join us again as we enjoy good company and great roads.

It was a hot, dark and rainy day. I could have said “It was a dark and stormy night “ . But that would have been very clichéd. If I could have I would have stooped that low. As Sandies we take any cheap  literary shot we can.  Now it applied  to   Bobby B,   Sandy S, Tommy N  and Tim W  were caught in a summer storm on I-10.   I bet there were some choice words describing that situation. Oh  us ? we  only got wet from sweat.  Only in  Florida can you drown then bake like a cake in the oven all in the same hour.   We had 10 Sandies  on this Tony G Lunch Ride . It was to make up for last week me leading to the wrong restaurant. The trip to lunch was 134 miles   of Florida weather. Along the way Tim W  entertained us with his astute observations  “Hey George the puddle from sweat I left last week on this road is still here”.   We reached Aces Hanger, parked and enjoyed the A/C in the restaurant. Even a simple meal is not that simple with the Sandies. Since Tony missed his meal here last week, I offered to buy his today. Tony  is addicted to root beer which led to Tommy,  who has a similar addiction and Tony  discussing the pros and cons of various brands of  root beers.     Mark S was solo today, so there were certain food indulgences that made their way to Mark’s  plate. Can you say peach cobbler ? Speaking of peach cobbler, the wait staff said they were out of ice cream. But not to lament the loss, the manager sent someone out to the store to buy vanilla ice cream.  Now that’s service in my book. JoeJoe  was served a huge piece of fish for his fish po’boy, JoeJoe never faltered.   As we left we split off some heading down I-10 and the underwater adventure. The rest of us headed south, no rain , but pretty hot still. It was actually a very  enjoyable ride anytime with Sandies riding is always fun. I would like to thank Sandy S  and JoeJoe  for the great pictures. Next Sunday is a Breakfast Ride, weather permitting. 7 am GTD. The Lunch Chairman himself

With nasty weather lurking around every corner, I decided against the planned GTD meet-up. Instead, I headed straight to the Missing Parts Ride at Emerald Coast Harley-Davidson from Niceville. I managed to dodge the sprinkles while soaking up the sun. A Fantastic Turnout for Charity The turnout for the charity event was fantastic! It felt like half the panhandle had arrived. I spotted at least four Sandies in the crowd. George and Sam had their Spyders parked by the service bay, proudly displaying the Sand Dollar M/C windscreen banner. We caught up for a bit by the giant chair out front, marveling at the sea of chrome, plastic, fiberglass, and leather—all for a great cause. After a few minutes, Tim walked up and said hi. Just before the pre-ride briefing As the Florida sun cranked the thermostat from "toasty" to "surface of Mercury," George and Sam announced they were making a strategic retreat to check out a bike lift. I couldn’t blame them; sometimes you choose the ride, and sometimes the ride to a climate-controlled safety chooses you. Planning Our Route Tim and I reviewed the planned route for the ride. We would head down 98, across to 87, up to Milton, loop around Blackwater, and then back down 87 and 98. I imagined it would create an impressive, miles-long procession of bikes. The kind that looks fantastic on the evening news. Our entry fee had already supported the cause, so our wallets had done their good deed for the day. However, our souls? Our souls craved a few curves. Let's Get Lunch "Tim looks over to me and says, 'Lunch at Two Cousins?'" "Yup," I replied. We headed back to the Winn-Dixie parking lot, where we had parked. After a brief parking lot puzzle with a rogue Spyder blocking Tim 's escape, we were finally free and pointed north. We were just getting to the other side of Mossy Head when the sky decided to gift us a complimentary three-minute rinse. It was just enough to get us slightly damp before we emerged back into the sunshine. Dining at Two Cousins Café By the time we pulled into Two Cousins Café , it was hard to distinguish between sweat and shower. Hopefully, we didn’t smell too badly! My first visit to a club favorite We had a great lunch. It was my first time at this café, and the patty melt with a side of okra was calling my name. Tim opted for a classic cheeseburger. We discussed life and the finer points of things that can quickly make you miserable if you aren’t careful. We both reached the profound conclusion that for us, motorcycles are not optional. They are a required prescription for maintaining sanity. It’s the best kind of throttle therapy. The Ride Back Geared up and feeling philosophical, we stepped back out into the sweltering heat. Shortly after, we rode into our first real shower. Funny how 75-degree rain feels downright chilly after simmering in 90-degree humidity. That "refreshing" blast lasted about five minutes. Then we rode through another shower—and another—each less intense but slightly warmer than the last. It was like riding through a car wash that was on the fritz. By the time I squished my way back into Niceville, I was thoroughly soaked. I’m pretty sure I could have poured a half-cup of water out of each boot. Conclusion All told, we clocked in 129 miles . I had a blast and would gladly do it all again. I’m definitely going to visit Two Cousins Café again; I can see why that place is a Sandie favorite. Ride safe and stay dry! Whether you're dodging raindrops or enjoying the thrill of the open road, every ride tells a story worth sharing.

Red White and Trains     10 Sandies showed up for our Depot Ride, including Tim W, Tommy N and JoeJoe . What made that so noteworthy was that they had put in hot 185 miles  the day before. We did 125 getting hot miles . To really drive a point Tim   W  and JoeJoe  did another 140 miles today, that folks is hungry riding. Tim  and Joe  did 425 miles this 4 th  of July weekend.  After all The Sandies are the Ridingst Club around.   Now for the normal riders we left GTD headed for the Milton Train depot. We had the one and only Tony G riding with us . We haven’t seen Tony  in a while, it was simply great to see Tony . Just as we were leaving Mark  and Lorna   S  made it. JoeJoe  was in a rather unique situation, he was two wheeling it . As you can see in Sandy’s  great pictures, he was unique.     We took off heading north, to avoid traffic at the river, we came in from the North. The day was great weather wise, the sun hid behind clouds most of the day. This made the temps pretty bearable until after lunch then it was back to feeling like a missionary at a cannibal party.   The depot days were pretty cool, if your like Waldo , who missed it, he don’t miss many Train Days.  Mark  took some pretty cool videos, Sandy  posted on The Club Facebook page.   Let me tell you about Lunch. Since we hadn’t seen Tony  in a while I said “You Pick”. Tony  did, I thought he said Andy D’s Ranch House, okay maybe I thought that. Anyway we made it not without some directional challenges. Food was very good by the way, thank you Tony.   It was a Super Sandie way to celebrate the 249 th  Birthday of these United States.   Business Meeting this Sunday the 13 th  of July   Dues are due now, you don’t want to miss out on all the frivolity now do ? Great Pictures Thank You Sandy S  and JoeJoe

Friday, May 30, 2025 Today was my  77 th  Birthday  and I was having the best present a person could have: riding with good friends, laughing my butt off, and riding some simply outstanding roads, even in the rain. Ken was a great lead and planner. Then, the next best present: right below our room, a Diesel EP Locomotive rumbled to life. The lead locomotive of the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway was getting ready for the day. Oh my, what a sound! It gives you goosebumps. Forecast for my birthday: cloudy, with a 100% chance of adrenaline and rain. Ken  again led us through twisty heaven. That guy can find more curves than a blind man in a strip club! As always, we didn’t find the rain; it found us. Ken , the whole trip, kept us right through the small towns. We didn’t go around; we went through the center. We saw old courthouses, Confederate statues, and all. Then the best Birthday present happened! We were going through Monticello, GA. We approached a bridge, and I looked left. I could not believe my eyes! There was the most famous store of the '90s! There it was: “ The Sac O’ Suds ” store, made famous in the '90s classic “My Cousin Vinny.” All it needed was a green Pontiac Tempest convertible. Not even the next 45 miles of pouring rain could wipe the smile off my face from seeing that store. The outside of the courthouse was used for the courthouse in the movie… two presents at once, cool beans! It rained for ten miles, then it was dry all the way to Columbus, GA. My last visit to Columbus was via the US Army circa 1967. My dinner and bed were 100% better this trip. Besides, I was sharing everything with my BFF. Saturday, May 31, 2025 Bright and no rain but coolish. Out of habit and dread, I put my rain jacket on. In no time, Ken  had us back on two lanes heading south, through beautiful backcountry roads of Alabama. You know, there is a life lesson in all this: rain for the whole trip, then blue sky and puffy clouds on the last day. One day I’ll make sense of these life lessons. We stopped at Union Springs, AL. Why, you ask? To stop and visit the Field Dog Hall of Fame, of course! Ken then led us down Highway 29, the one that starts in Pensacola. As lunch approached, it was decided to have our last breaking of bread together at The Laurel Hill Grill . We ate and reminisced about the last 6 days of laughter and adventure shared with great friends. A perfect end for a perfect Sandie Adventure. Thank you again, Ken , you did a tremendous job, what with the rain and all. I’d let you lead anytime, anywhere. Until the next adventure, ride safe and often.   -George

Wednesday, May 28, 2025 The day began with an adventure that would become one of the highlights of our trip. Anderson Rail Tours offered a unique experience: a rail car with four wheels, four seats, and pedals. Yes, you read that right. We pedaled our way through a four-mile round trip. The journey took us through a hand-hewn tunnel dating back to the 1860’s, a marvel of craftsmanship and history. At the turnaround point, we found ourselves by a picturesque river, the perfect spot to enjoy the lunch and snacks we had packed. In Tommy 's car, he and Ken  decided to take it easy, coasting along while the couple up front did all the work. Fortunately for the two mischief-makers, the couple were avid cyclists who found the pedaling fun. Meanwhile, Mark S discovered the "cheat" and switched a dial on our car for the electric motor. JoeJoe  and Mark  couldn't resist adding a bit of electric power when they were riding alone. Let me tell you, it was all a first-class experience. As the day wound down, we headed back to the hotel, rain pattering against the windows. Ken  and Mark , undeterred by the weather, decided to take a run up and down Route 209, rain and all. Thursday, May 29, 2025 The morning welcomed us with a refreshing chill in the air and, of course, a forecast that promised rain. But today was special—I was looking forward to visiting the American House Cat Museum . This remarkable spot was a paradise for cat lovers. Each room was brimming with cat-themed delights: from artwork and statues to books and even carousel cats. One of the most intriguing displays featured mummified cats from ancient Egypt, dating back 3,000 years! The museum also had pinball machines, toy trains, lighters, and, to top it all off, three live cats wandering around. It truly was a haven for feline fans. After soaking in all the cat magic, we hit the road to Blue Ridge, GA, with the rain keeping us company the entire way. What made this day unforgettable, though, was the bond we shared. The banter on the radio was lively and filled with laughter, making my sides hurt from giggling. Not even the relentless rain or the winding roads could put a damper on our mood. Navigating the Cherohala Skyway in pouring rain was quite the challenge—it was climbing 4,000 feet up and then 4,000 ft. back down again. The rain was so heavy, the raindrops hitting my GPS kept changing the display. I even learned to like the sound of the rain drumming on my helmet. No, it is not as pleasant as rain on a tin roof. Ken  took a wrong turn, and we ended up in a subdivision. Mark  upset the HOA by digging into the grass while making a U-turn. It needed a push, which caused the rear tire to dig a furrow; oopsie. The next 45 miles was rain—lots of rain. Got to hand it to Ken ; he made the route and trip interesting despite the weather. We made it to the hotel, finally drenched yet buzzing with excitement. We capped off the night with dinner and drinks at the rooftop bar.

Saturday, May 24, 2025 We left early;  6 am sharp! We hit the road with Ken C  leading the way, cruising two-lane highways toward the largest Buc-ee’s in the USA. If you’ve never been to a Buc-ee’s, imagine Black Friday at Walmart, but instead of TVs, people are fighting over beef jerky and brisket sandwiches. The Sandies dove into the chaos like seasoned warriors, emerging victorious with snacks in hand. Now, let me tell you about traveling with a retired weather guy. JoeJoe , our personal meteorologist, warned us that rain was ahead. Like responsible riders, we suited up in our rain gear—full sauna suits, ready for battle. Five hours later? Not a single drop of rain. Just five hours of marinating in our own sweat, slowly transforming into human dumplings. I think I lost three pounds just sitting still. JoeJoe , meanwhile, remained suspiciously dry, probably laughing at us internally. Then came one of the strangest sights of the trip: a pseudo-biker gang—all riding Spyders. Now, I’m all for unconventional motorcycle choices, but these folks were committed to the role. They had out-riders blocking traffic like they were escorting a presidential motorcade, except instead of Harleys, they were on neon-colored Rykers. It was like watching a group of retired Power Rangers attempt a hostile takeover of the highway. And let’s talk about their tough-guy aesthetic. 99% of them looked like they had a long-standing love affair with all-you-can-eat buffets. Nothing says “intimidating biker gang” like a group of dudes who look like they could bench-press a brisket sandwich but struggle with stairs. I showed my appreciation for their antics with a well-placed finger salute, which I’m sure was received with the grace and dignity it deserved. Dinner at Texas Roadhouse? Absolute redemption. Nothing washes away the memory of "Wannabe Spyder Gang Shenanigans" like a basket of warm rolls and cinnamon butter. I may have lost three pounds to sweat earlier, but I gained it all back in pure, buttery bliss. The Prime Rib was excellent. Sunday, May 25, 2025 Now we have rain , and for the next 6 days , it rained . Ken laid out a tremendous route of twisty roads, rain or no rain. The Spyders performed excellently in the rain, all 6 hours of it. We stopped for lunch, dried off, then got back on the rainy road. It was one fun day; the scenery was outstanding, even though the rain was a bit thick at times. It really was nice how everything was so green. Ken  kept us on one great road after another—master road stuff for sure. The hotel truly was a welcome sight. Dinner at Cracker Barrel was well appreciated. We had no trouble sleeping that night. Monday, May 26, 2025 The day started cloudy and promised rain. Ken , Mark & Lorna   S , and our newest Spyder pilot Tommy  all left for some aggressive riding. Ken 's route included the " Widow Maker " and " The Back of the Dragon",  all very technical roads, or as Sandie would say: "twisty as hell." JoeJoe , Sam , and I  opted to head straight to the hotel in Bristol, again in the rain. Glad to be in the hotel as it rained hard the rest of the day. A nice lunch and a dry nap rounded out our day perfectly. The Dragon Krewe only experienced a single spate of rain. All came back carrying tons of swag from The Back of the Dragon Store. Tuesday, May 27, 2025 Tommy , JoeJoe , Sam , and I  headed to Greenville Tennessee, to Baja Ron’s . They make and install sway bars for the Spyder. Sam  and Tommy  got new ones installed, and they repaired a bad installation on mine (from a former owner). The folks at Baja Ron's are first-class people who run a great Spyder repair operation, all housed in a '40s style gas station, which screams class. We had lunch at Aunt Bees, really, seriously, outstanding Southern cooking! We tried out our new parts on Highway 209. Sam 's riding was amazing, stuck like glue to my backside. Tommy  really liked the improvement on his cornering. We got lucky and the rain held off until we got back to the hotel. The rest of our crew, Ken  & Mark , after driving some more outstanding roads like “ The Snake ,” managed to beat most of the rain back to the hotel. A Georgia Motorcycle Club came in after us. They were completely soaked through their rain suits. It was raining super hard.

Joining a motorcycle club can be an exciting and enriching experience. It connects you to a community of like-minded individuals who share a passion for riding. Whether you want to learn new skills, explore new places, or simply make new friends, a motorcycle club can offer numerous benefits. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to finding and joining the right motorcycle club in your area. Why You Should Join a Motorcycle Club Motorcycle clubs provide a sense of belonging and camaraderie. Many riders seek social interactions beyond solo rides, random social media meetup rides, or those three buddies that seem to get out less and less these days. While those can all be fun and offer everything some are looking for, others are looking for a little more. Here are a few reasons to consider joining: Community Support : Clubs often rally around members who face personal challenges, creating a tight-knit community. Skill Development : Many clubs host training sessions, providing opportunities to enhance your riding skills and safety knowledge. Group Rides : Clubs frequently organize rides, allowing you to explore new routes and destinations together. Lasting Enthusiasm and Dedication : Club members love motorcycles. They give each other grief over the tiniest of things to show each other they noticed the details. These folks aren't just out for a few weekends, and have shown they will be there through thick and thin, rain or shine. Motorcycle club members enjoying a brief stop. How to Join a Motorcycle Club Joining a motorcycle club involves a few steps. Here’s how you can start: Research Clubs : Begin by researching local motorcycle clubs in your area. You can search online or use resources like social media platforms to find options. Websites often have information on membership requirements and events. If you are completely new to motorcycling, the American Motorcyclist Association is a great place to start. Attend Events : Many clubs host events that are open to the public. Attending these gatherings allows you to meet members and understand the culture of each club. Pay attention to how they interact and if you feel comfortable among them. Network : Speak to fellow riders, whether at local events, motorcycle shops, or online forums. Share your interest in joining a club and ask for recommendations. This can provide insights on which clubs align with your style and preferences. Motorcycles parked at a Toys for Tots charity event in Niceville Florida. Understand the Club's Culture and Values Before joining any motorcycle club, it’s essential to understand their culture and values. Each club has its own set of principles, which can include: Riding Style : Some clubs focus on cruising, while others may be into sport bikes or adventure riding. Commitment : Clubs might have varying levels of commitment, from requiring regular attendance at meetings to participating in events to a "show up when you can" philosophy. Community Engagement : Some clubs prioritize charity work or community involvement, while others may focus solely on riding or other activity. Before committing, ensure the club's values resonate with your own. Understanding the culture will help you determine if it’s the right fit. It's important to find a club that fits you and not the other way around. Clubs love to welcome new members who are excited about participating and are eager to contribute. Meeting the Joining Requirements Most motorcycle clubs have specific requirements for new members. Some examples may include: Age Limit : Some clubs require members to be a certain age, often 18 or older. Type of Motorcycle : Certain clubs may have restrictions on the type of motorcycle you can own. Ensure you meet these criteria. Probationary Period : Some clubs implement a probationary period during which new members may be observed before full membership is granted. Finding a motorcycle club near me can help you identify local clubs that meet your criteria. Motorcyclist submitting registration paperwork to join a Poker Run. Preparing for the Interview Most clubs require new members to go through an interview or initiation process. Here’s how to prepare: Be Honest : Share your riding experience and what you hope to gain from joining the club. Clubs appreciate authenticity and honesty. Show Commitment : Demonstrate your willingness to engage with the club’s activities and community. Express how you can contribute positively to their environment. Follow Protocol : Each club has its own rules regarding the interview process. Familiarize yourself with their expectations and follow them closely. If you are assigned a sponsor, ask questions and seek feedback. Embrace the Club Experience Once you’ve successfully joined a motorcycle club, make the most of the experience: Participate : Attend meetings and events consistently. The more you engage, the more you’ll benefit from club membership. Build Relationships : Get to know fellow members and form friendships. Strong bonds can enhance your riding experience. Respect the Culture : Adhere to the rules and traditions of the club. Respect boosts your credibility and fosters a positive club environment. A group of motorcyclists cruising together across a picturesque bridge. Stay Open to Change Joining a motorcycle club is a significant step and may bring about changes in your riding lifestyle. Embrace these changes and remain open to new friendships and experiences. The relationships you build can provide support not just in riding but in various aspects of life. Explore different types of rides or events that the club organizes. Engaging in charity rides, rallies, or community service can enhance your experience and allow you to make meaningful contributions. Joining a motorcycle club can change your riding experience for the better. By following these steps and being open to new opportunities, you'll find yourself part of a community that shares your passion for riding. Whether you want to learn, socialize, or simply enjoy the ride, a motorcycle club can be a fantastic avenue to explore. Be Safe, and Have Fun!

On Sunday, February 2, 2025, eight Sandies rode 146 miles for food, entertainment, and… well, morbid curiosity. The Cat Herder led the way up through Crestview and into Blackwater Forest. Along the way, we were planning to take a left onto Pleasant Home Church Rd, but there was a “Bridge Out” sign at the turn. Naturally, comments ensued regarding the subma-wing incident. We continued along the long arc into Milton and ventured down Avalon Blvd. Our illustrious Captain led us to the Fishing Hole which appeared to be closed. We stood around in the parking lot contemplating out life’s choices when the door opened, and the “open” sign lit up. JoeJoe was inside before the rest of us had a chance to comprehend. Once inside the Dark Prince shared stories of his recent trip to the family home in Italy. Georgia Tim told tales of half-retirement. JoeJoe flipped through pictures of #snowmageddon, still in utter disbelief of the weather event. While waiting for our food, Sandy kept us going with stories of the randomness much of us have endured together over the years. While we were enjoying a very tasty fish lunch, the Cat Herder just kept going over and over the bridge incident. He wanted to “see” the bridge that was out. After lunch, we loaded up and the plan was shared: we were going back to the bridge that was out. JoeJoe just couldn’t bare to see history repeat itself. He peeled away fairly quickly. Georgia Tim bailed when we left highway 90 to go north. The rest of us, we tagged along to see just how far our Road Captain would push it. Apparently right up to the barricade. The Siren Song was in the air GQ was thanked numerous times for going out the last time the Cat Herder went fording a river. He didn’t say it, but he was exceptionally relieved to not have to do it again. We all stopped for the obligatory picture on the way back. Sam remarked that she’d follow him almost anywhere without hesitation. However, she would not test her can-am in the water. The trek back to our respective homes was uneventful. It was a great day for a ride and it was nice to have some fish that weren’t fried.

We kicked things off bright and early with our monthly business meeting. The Cat Herder  was showing off the new Sheepdog patch, and we heard all about the SS United States coming into Mobile soon. Thanks to everyone who participated and contributed to another great session. It was great seeing SpecreSteve  again, who is spending more and more of his time with his wife in the Philippines. Once the business was taken care of, it was time to hit the road. Our destination: DeFuniak Springs, Florida. We said our farewells to those who couldn’t make the ride today, and one by one we donned our gear and started our bikes. Some have more gear than others Seven Sandies made our way up north. Soon after getting out of traffic, the Dark Prince  embraces the awkward and points out the Ace  has nine RAM® Ball mounts on his Can-Am. A discussion ensued regarding the potential road name change. George pointed out that there are only so many jokes one can make with “Ram”, “Ball”, or “Mount” as a road name. Waldo  pointed out that we would be relegating Tony to a life of 70’s mustaches. The group tabled the discussion because about halfway down Bob Sikes Rd, we see a few bikes roar past heading west. GQ  mentioned the last one looked like a Triumph. Tim chimed in with looked like a Rocket 3 to him. About 10 seconds later Tommy noted the Triumph had made a U-turn and was behind him now… After a brief stop at the nearby Ritz (Food Store), we confirmed that MacRocket  had joined our band. Eight Sandies  rode into DeFuniak Springs. We rode past the tiny library, train depot, caboose, and pulled into the downtown storefronts on Baldwin Ave. It was great to catch up, share some laughs, and enjoy a delicious meal together at Perla Baking Company . Delicious With our bellies full and spirits high, we strolled outside, where JoeJoe   was actually included in a picture with the new Sheepdog Patch. Since Joe is typically behind the camera taking photos, we don’t get too many with him organically visible (he usually adds himself during post processing). Super Sixes, Sweeps, Tail, Drag, and now Sheepdogs Back on our bikes, Tim lead us through a few loops in central/eastern Walton County. The sun was shining, the air was a perfect 66°F, and these are some of the absolute best (and my personal favorite) motorcycling roads in the Panhandle. It felt like a special treat. George and Sam E  separated from the group early to go visit someone in the area. The rest of us looped and swooped our way back to 285 where the fun ended, and the commute home began again. All in all, I clocked us with 129.7 miles  (but I didn’t start tracking  until a few miles after I started) A huge thank you to everyone who came out and made this day so fantastic. Whether you were there for the meeting, the ride, or both, it was great to catch up and see some of you again. We’re already looking forward to our next adventure!   Upcoming Events: 1.       March 9th Ride to Food ( Remember Munchkin : Time springs forward one hour on this morning! ) 2.       March 16th Chili Ride 3.       March 23rd Skills 4.       March 29th Conecuh Sausage Ride

Motorcycle clubs are often viewed through a lens of rugged appearances and rebellious spirits. However, they also play significant roles within their communities, often fostering connections, promoting safety, and engaging in charitable activities. I'd like to take a moment to explore some club activities and the positive impacts on local communities. As motorcyclists, it is our responsibility to ensure we are doing our part to represent motorcycling positively. Studies have shown that one negative interaction will counteract five positive interactions. The Role of Motorcycle Clubs in the Community Motorcycle clubs serve both members and the communities they reside in. From organizing individual events to participating in local rallies, clubs create both social bonds and networks that extend well beyond motorcycling itself. Clubs cultivate a sense of belonging by bringing together individuals who share a passion for riding, and can promote responsible behaviors that enhance the community as a whole. Clubs organize social events, including bike shows, charity runs, community gatherings, or rides through the community. These events not only provide a platform for motorcycle enthusiasts to showcase their bikes but also promote camaraderie and goodwill among community members. Many clubs also invite non-members to participate, thereby enriching the community's social fabric. A charity event brings the community together Charity Work and Community Service One of the most commendable roles of motorcycle clubs is their commitment to charity work. Many clubs engage in fundraising activities aimed at supporting local causes. Many clubs in our area help to raise funds for medical treatments, education programs, veteran affairs, elderly care, and childhood safety. For example, a club might organize a ride where all proceeds help raise funds for a family in our community experiencing an unprecedented hardship. These events often attract large crowds, providing exposure for both the club and charities. Motorcycle charity events can raise critically needed funds, significantly impacting the nonprofits they support all across America. In addition to fundraising, many motorcycle clubs participate in community service projects. This can involve helping with local clean-up efforts, participating in food drives, or even mentoring youth in the community. Such activities dispel the myths often associated with motorcycle clubs, revealing them as proactive community members rather than scruffy troublemakers. Community service by motorcycle club members Building Safety Awareness Safety is a critical concern for motorcyclists, and many clubs contribute by promoting safe riding practices. They often organize safety workshops, provide training sessions, and distribute educational materials on safe riding. This has a twofold benefit: it helps to reduce accidents among both club members and the general public. Areas with active motorcycle clubs tend to have lower accident rates. Working closely with local authorities and safety organizations, motorcycle clubs foster awareness and education campaigns. Initiatives may include collaborations with law enforcement or hosting "Bike Safety Days," where riders learn and practice motorcycle handling, road safety, or accident scene management through community-based safety education programs. Sand Dollar Motorcycle Club members practicing advanced handling and promoting safe riding practices Social Connections and Fellowship The social aspect of motorcycle clubs cannot be overlooked. Clubs are where individuals come together and bond over shared passions and experiences. This connection is especially significant for those who might feel isolated in their everyday lives. The sense of comradery and kinship among members often leads to lifelong friendships that extends well beyond riding motorcycles. Members of motorcycle clubs often support each other during life challenges by providing emotional backing or physical assistance when needed. The bonds formed here can sometimes feel akin to family ties, making clubs a strong support system for their members. Moreover, clubs often host events to celebrate milestones such as birthdays, anniversaries, or even the journeys of members who have achieved significant personal goals, reinforcing their commitment to each other and the community. Combatting Stereotypes and Building Positive Relationships Despite the positive contributions, motorcycle clubs have often faced negative stereotypes. These clubs are sometimes painted as troublemakers or viewed with suspicion by the general public. Combatting these stereotypes is essential for sustaining their role within the community. Many clubs actively work to change public perceptions by participating in community events, engaging in public service, and inviting local residents to join their activities. Effective community engagement helps to highlight their contributions and reassures the public that their intentions are positive. When and participating in community events, it helps to wear club logos, ride to the event, bring other members with you. Additionally, collaborating with local businesses can help improve public perceptions. Partnering with restaurants or shops for events not only provides visibility for a club, but ensures positive and impactful interaction with the community. Even small efforts help pave the way for better relationships. Engaging the Younger Generation Another critical role of motorcycle clubs is engaging the younger generation. Many clubs offer mentorship programs aimed at youth, focusing on motorcycle safety, responsible riding, and the values of teamwork and community service. By mentoring young riders, clubs ensure the longevity of the riding culture. Youth engagement isn’t just about motorcycling; it's also an opportunity to instill values like responsibility, respect, and camaraderie. Activities organized by clubs serve to inspire the next generation and encourage them to adopt positive relationships with motorcycling. Involving younger individuals in club activities not only nurtures their passion for motorcycles but also teaches them about the importance of community service and social responsibility. We all know it when we ride past a young kid learning to ride their bicycle. A friendly wave usually brings a smile across their face that can be seen from miles away. A bit of encouragement can go a long way when these littles ones are learning a difficult task that requires focus and concentration. The Future: Strengthening Community Ties As motorcycle culture continues to evolve, the role of motorcycle clubs in the community will likely change as well. By recognizing our influence and making a deliberate effort to engage with the community, clubs can foster deeper connections and a more positive public image. Marketing events through social media, hosting joint initiatives with community organizations, and maintaining an open dialogue with neighbors can significantly enhance our impact. Establishing initiatives that resonate with the local community's needs, like environmental efforts or youth programs, can position motorcycle clubs as essential threads in the fabric of communal well-being. Ultimately, the key to a sustainable, positive role in the community is for motorcycle clubs to remain agile, open-minded, and committed to mutual benefit. Leaving a Legacy Motorcycle clubs should aspire to leave a positive legacy that future generations can be proud of. This can only be achieved through commitment to community service, safety awareness, and fostering relationships with diverse community members. By taking proactive steps to engage with local residents and serve as role models for the younger generation, motorcycle clubs can dispel myths, create change, and ultimately enrich their communities. The compassion, values, and dedication shown by these clubs reveal their true colors. Members, who are often heroes in their own right, can show just how outdated those stereotypes are and their dedication to making better communities for all. Motorcycle clubs have a multifaceted impact on their communities that extends well beyond the open road. By understanding and supporting these roles, we amplify their positive contributions and empower them to continue their valuable work.

Well folks, another short monthly meeting of the Sand Dollar Motorcycle Club is in the books! But as any motorcyclist knows, the real business happens after the gavel drops. Today was no exception. With the serious stuff out of the way, a brave (or perhaps just hungry) contingent of five souls decided to stretch their bikes' legs and chase some sunshine. Our fearless leader, Cat Herder , rounded up the usual suspects: the ever-reliable Sam E , the jovial JoeJoe , the smooth-riding Ace , the always-stylish Nikki G , and, well, Waldo (we're still not entirely sure how he manages to blend into every group photo, but there he was!). Our destination? The Depot Restaurant Catering and Venue , a fine establishment known for its ability to refuel both man and machine (okay, maybe just the man part). The route, a delightful 157-mile loop, promised a good mix of scenery and, much to our collective delight, some stretches of that glorious, recently laid asphalt. You know the stuff – so smooth it feels like you're gliding on butter (albeit a very fast, slightly noisy butter). The stop at The Depot was, as expected, a highlight. Stories were shared over hearty lunches, and the camaraderie amongst the group was palpable. It's moments like these, sharing a meal and a laugh after a good ride, that truly make being part of this club so special. Now, no motorcycle adventure is truly complete without a minor navigational hiccup, right? Today, we were treated to not one, but two impromptu U-turns. Luckily, a few wide sections of roadway and very limited traffic gave us the chance to get back on track. After all, what's a good ride without a little unplanned scenery? It just adds to the story! We all eventually rolled back towards home, our faces sporting the tell-tale signs of a day well spent – a slight tan, a few bug splatters, and most importantly, big grins. So, here's to good company, smooth roads (mostly!), and the occasional navigational detour that keeps things interesting. If you missed out on today's post-meeting jaunt, don't fret! There are always more miles to be ridden and more adventures to be had with the Sandies . Keep an eye on the calendar for our next ride – we'd love to have you join us! Ride safe and keep the shiny side up!

Lets start off by saying that any day where everyone makes it back home safely is a good day. Add on that there were no mechanical woes that stranded anyone and we have a great day. To those ends, we had a great day today (September 14, 2024). Seven Sandies rode 252 miles for ice cream and food. Six of us met at GTD this foggy morning, but only one enjoyed breakfast. George walked in an immediately announced that we will be riding Hwy 20. There were a few curious glances, but the comment was largely directed towards JoeJoe and I ( Waldo ). We had a few email exchanges during the planning portion of this ride. JoeJoe was elated to have the .gpx file import into his Navi without fanfare ( imagine foreboding font utilized for emphasis ). I on the other hand was protesting, ok flat out whining, because riding Hwy 20 is about as much fun as getting a root canal. Just a few minutes before the start we meander out to start donning all of the appropriate safety gear. Munchkin gets a little sidetracked talking bike accessories, but got back on course just n the nick of time. Just as the wheels start to spin, we hear Tony G come over comms and say "wait, hold up". I don't think we ever knew what the issue was, but he got it sorted in a few minutes. Ok, now we were off. Tommy ( GQ ) met up with us as we rode through Bluewater Bay, and our sextet was officially a septet. Everything seemed to be perfectly normal. It was still a little foggy near the water, and Hwy 20 delivered on it's promise. We were fortunate to not be behind a group of vehicles holding up traffic ( read as we were a large group of bikes holding up traffic ). We turned up 79 and stop to stretch in Vernon. Not much to see of Vernon where we were, but they do appear to be doing extensive work reusing old shipping containers. As soon as we were back on the road, we started noticing a peculiar behavior from our Road Captain. Before he would speak to us on the radio, he would call for us; he called for Sam often. When any of us would respond, he wouldn't say anything. A minute or two later, he would repeat this pattern. "Hey Sam ?" asked George "Yeah ****** " replied Sam (redacted for our squeamish readers) Silence for 90+ seconds. Eventually, "Hey Joe?" George would ask. "Umm yeah George?" replied JoeJoe Silence again. This pattern continued until the Cat Herder  missed the next turn. As he's sharing his distain for the electronic hell he has found himself in, JoeJoe cuts back on to exclaim that it's OK, Navi didn't want us to turn there anyways. The Cat Herder  thinks we might be able to loop around - nope middle of the two lane roadway we have to u-turn back the way we came. Making a left onto our previously missed right, the fun really began. One by one, our GPS systems started redirecting us in endless waypoint loops. As best as I could tell either we had some waypoints slightly off the roadway, or they were simply in the wrong order. Either way, the Garmin devices and the Navi were not happy. A short while later we made a right when we should have gone straight. That's when George tells us that every time he would say something (i.e. "Hey -insert name-") Siri would start talking to him. We quickly realized that our Road Captain was being seduced by Siri's siren song. Unlike the fabled Beowulf, we did not have our Cat Herder  tied to a mast for safety. So we were left alone to perilously wander through the backroads on our own. We revert to calling out the various directions our devices show and guiding our Cat Herder extraordinaire by committee. Even with JoeJoe 's Navi in the mix, we somehow managed to complete our journey across NWFL to a dessert oasis. After enjoying some refreshing ice cream from the Ocheesee Creamery in front of the Shady Nook Farm, George announces that we will be heading to Jim's Buffet and Grill in Marianna . We thank them for all of their gifts from the bottom of our hearts. Tommy is slightly disappointed with this news as he just had ice cream. Nevertheless, Sandies must endure! We took a much more cautious route ( straight up HWY 69 to 90 ) to Jim's. We get in, eat, have some laughs and hydrate. Afterwards, we head back on 90... nearly the whole dang way. The Cat Herder  disabled his headset to avoid calamity. Boredom and heat exhaustion have set in firmly. Munchkin was not having great luck with his cruise control, and found himself rotating between lane positions. Tony G was taking in the sights of the road and the five hundred roadside flea market/garage sale stands lined up along the way. GQ peeled off to get more water and to stretch. However, the Cat Herder  still had his headset disconnected. By the time he realized we were missing a rider we were miles down the road. GQ passed us a half hour later while we were stopped for fuel and a rest. Sticking to his namesake, GQ stopped and waited for us to catch back up. Overall it was a day filled with small oddities and annoyances. You know, all of the stuff that can frustrate and distract a rider on the road. The Sandies stayed positive. We cracked self depreciating jokes, and keeping on moving forward. I suppose that's what separates our humble club from the rest. We keep reminding each other of the silver linings and the assortment of puns you could use in the situation at hand. Whether genuine or sarcastic, we keep a smile on our faces.

Ignoring the call of the backroads and smells of fresh biscuits in the air, seven Sandies came out to help work the annual SRI-TRI in the very early Saturday morning hours. Four members volunteered to carry judges and ride during the cycling portion of the event, offering their riding expertise to transport race officials along the 21 kilometer (13 mile) cycling route. This allows race officials to closely monitor the cyclists, ensuring adherence to the rules and providing immediate assistance if needed. Monitoring participants throughout the course is required for all USAT sanctioning. A big thanks goes out to all involved. M2 Sensei coordinated with race officials to pull this whole thing off. He was the first bike out and make more laps than anyone else. JoeJoe had the honor of carrying the only road course judge and pulled super six duties for the day. Munchkin who was fashionably late to join the group and was the last to leave the cyclist. The Cat Herder , Sam E , and Ace who cheered from their rolling couches produced by Can-Am.

Eight Sandies braved a 43 ˚F morning to enjoy one of the best riding days of the year. Oh and we rode 126 miles to get food. When the Cat Herder asked if I had any ideas for the Tom Turkey ride, I had no idea what was in store. I thought, sure, I’ve been wanting to checkout The Hideout . I rode past after Thunder Beach and they were packed with bikes. It looked like a new Outpost . I also thought about how I’ve been enjoying a few roads out that way lately, so why not. I put together a route. I mapped and exported it nine different ways, only to find out that none of them would actually load on a device. There were two problem areas that mapping software just didn’t like. I put it together as best as I could, then explained the rest to the Cat Herder via text and email. We forwarded it to JoeJoe who immediately ran into trouble uploading the Navi on his H-D CVO Limited. He eventually got something uploaded, but can’t view or delete it… In other words, everything is starting out just like one would expect. We all met up at Good Things Donuts . I just had to get a small coffee and one donut because that place lives up to its name. There was a line for the restroom when it was time to head outside. I was last in line, so by the time I’d made it out most already had their gear on. Flustered, I rushed to put all my stuff on and get ready. No one likes being left behind, and the Sandies have a habit of departing a few minutes early. I hurried out and put on my helmet, gloves, headset, music , and then the mesh comms. Ok, I’m ready just in time for the Cat Herder to motion for me to pay attention. He then says I should go ahead and lead the way since I have all of the turns programmed into my barely functioning Garmin… So I’m no longer in danger of leaving myself behind. That’s great news! Before I could bask in the newfound enjoyment of not being left, I realized what this meant. I’d be the one responsible to get fellow club members to lunch. I was between Sandies and food! There was only about 70 miles planned before lunch. We left at 8:58 (after all of that - we were still early) and had to go slow to take our time getting there. Being early would mean that we had to sit around and wait while thinking about the food we couldn't have. That’s the last thing I wanted to be responsible for. Fortune shined upon us though. The temperature started climbing quickly, the sun was shining, the pavement was dry, and we had a very scenic stroll through the countryside planned. Going slow on some of those curvy roads was tough. It has its perks too. We saw three fawns playing and two decided to run across in front of me as we got closer. About 15 families had dogs run along the fence line to welcome our presence near their homes. The roads didn’t disappoint, and everyone was smiling when we got to The Hideout . One of the owners met us in the parking lot and redirected the three wheelers to the rear of the parking area. I later found out that they get a lot of trikes, Can-Ams, and other three wheeled vehicles there; they have their own designated area. Another treat, one of the staff met us as we got off of our bikes with a kettle of apple cider. They told us it was there to help warm up anyone that may have been frozen from the ride. Inside, we were able to enjoy some very good sandwiches and burgers. Mark S commented that the Turkey was smoked really well. Munchkin make a joke about how it’s difficult to keep it lit but not too many people heard it. Sandy S had a pretzel so large she couldn’t finish it all. Sam E didn’t finish her burger either, and was kind enough to share some of her onion rings. Ace had been fairly quiet all morning but was getting a few light hearted jabs in as some of us recounted the worst of our most recent trip. Ace went the week prior, and apparently did not have the unfortunate weather we encountered. Also, Ace did not share any onion rings ( he might of offered, but I wasn't given him the opportunity to withdraw the offer as soon as I accepted ). After we ate, I went outside to check out the grounds. There were people doing sound checks or just jamming on the stage. Munchkin and I talked to one of the regulars who rode a Victory Vision. Naturally I wanted to ask about the bike I just wasn’t ready to own until it was too late. Not too long after we went outside JoeJoe took off like he was late for work. That was weird because JoeJoe has been retired from work for a few months now. Shortly thereafter, I got the look from the Cat Herder that says hey it’s time to go. The place was starting to get busier, so we said our farewells and loaded up. We headed back a slightly different route but almost just as scenic. My Garmin threw a fit a few times, and I ended up missing the one road that I wanted to show everyone. Those of us on mesh all agreed that it was easy enough to turn around and Sandy S  was that only one that couldn’t speak up. So I made the Sand Dollar Motorcycle Club Signature Turnaround™ . Then we all see Munchkin  in the back and remember he’s not on mesh also. He probably thought we were silly to go back for a road that took us to the same place we were already heading. Once back on the correct road (CR280B) we ended up at the 331-intersection traffic light across from Coy Burgess Loop Rd. We weaved our way back to Bob Sikes Rd and stopped at the gas station just in case Munchkin  needed fuel. We wait… and we wait… no Munchkin  to be seen. Mark S  says he waited at the corner of Chesser Rd, but he never came. After a brief discussion about how Munchkin  typically peels off towards Navarre at the end of our rides. It’s strange though, because he also usually waves goodbye as he does a fly-by. The Cat Herder putting back on his Chief Cat Herding Hat , doubled back to make sure Munchkin  isn’t lost, stranded, or worse. He makes to it all the way back to 331, and nada. He goes up 331 to the end of Bob Sikes, and comes back that way. The only thing we can figure Is that he went north on 331 and either too I-10 or 90 to 87 before heading south to home. Wherever you are Munchkin , I hope you are safe, warm, and with Helen. The rest of us load up and head back to our homes. It was 76 ˚F inside the fairing of my bike by the time I made it home. It was a beautiful day for a ride. The food was good, and we got to hear the story of 2-Tom and how the Tom Turkey ride came to be.