Results found for empty search
- We was Munckinized
I’m going to make up a new word. It’s going to be sorta like pressurized, simonized or chumpenized . Notice a word like chump is used in there. I shoulda known when Munchkin jumped up and volunteered to lead the Breakfast ride. Alarm bells should have started ringing like fire bells at a six alarm fire. But no, not a naïve trusting Old Catherder like me. Okay back to the beginning, As Sam and I drove up to GTD, we watched a Publix’s big truck try and do a u-turn from the parking lot of GTD. Now JoeJoe and Harley are between the trailer and the street. Did JoeJoe move? Not an inch, JoeJoe just calmly sat there as this wall of aluminum moved a foot from his Harley and him. That should have been an omen but I missed the clue. 7 Sandies met at GTD on time. It was supposed to be a rainy Sunday, 88% chance of showers I was surprised that we had that many to be truthful. I was really surprised to see Kasey K who hails from the sunny shores of Crestview. I know Kasey likes to ride, Kasey just didn’t know he was going to a part of Sandie lore. Then Bobby B from the far environs of Niceville showed up. Now Bobby is a savvy fellow but even the Great Waldo neve r saw it coming. Munchkin s howed up with this grin, I shoulda been warned but for some reason the internal alarms were strangely silent. “Follow me, folks!” declared Munchkin , now giving credit to the Munchkin. It was exactly 7 am when the kickstands came up and off we went, trusting as ever. Turned on to Eglin Parkway, went .4 of a mile and turned onto Mother Earth Café. That’s when I knew I had been Munckinized ! ( cue dramatic music ). Now being a part of Sandie lore i.e. Taking the shortest Sandie Sunday Ride, ever. It just couldn’t wipe the fact that I had been Munckinized . As I sat there in the parking lot I had to admit I never saw it coming. We decided to make the best of the joke and eat breakfast. While sitting there we did watch it raining at least we avoided that. Next Saturday is Our Saturday ride the schedule says 7 am but let’s move it to 8 am
- Business and Lunch 9/1/24
After our monthly business meeting, 7 Sandies explored 136 miles of backroads and stopped for food. The Cat Herder headed straight north towards Crestview and Baker. We made a brief stop to reattach Sam ’s sena unit to her helmet. It had leapt for freedom, but forgot it was still tethered with audio wires. MacRocket pointed out that his helmet has all of the electronics packaged inside the shell; he doesn't have to worry about such trifling incidentals. He says it plays music well, but he had never bothered to try and talk to anyone else using it. Back on the road, we meandered through the backroads past the Strawberry fields. From there, we looped back to Holt on some partially shaded and fairly fresh blacktop. I was very happy to avoid as much sunshine as I could on the canopied backroads. We saw lots of families enjoying the holiday weekend. Picnic goers, swimmers, boaters were all enjoying the shade from the trees and the cool water of the river. We rode into downtown Milton and parked all together in front of Boomerang Pizza Kitchen . We went inside and gathered around a dim table in the back. M2 Sensei and I had a brief battle over which lefty got the seat with elbow room. I didn’t try hard because that seat faces backwards… I was taught to respect my elders... …ok, it was because Michael won. Munchkin decided that he was only having dessert. Forever a thoughtful husband, he ordered a to-go dessert for Hellen (who didn’t make it out with us today). JoeJoe might have a picture of Dave eating ice cream in a strange bowl made for traveling. Feel free to ask him about the origins of said ice cream. I split off as the group headed south on 87 . My ride home was uneventful and I somehow managed to sweat out the entire glass of tea I had just enjoyed. I imagine the rest of the group's ride south was the same. I'm betting they had more cars and standstills though. I briefly considered 90, or some long way around route back towards Niceville. I ended up opting for the quickest path; traffic wasn't too bad for I-10 on the weekend before Labor Day. We missed those that couldn’t make it, but were happy to enjoy the day together.
- Dress for the Slide, not the Ride…..
by Greg Lynd Editors Note: Greg met one of NW Florida's Bambi's. Many times the deer and motorbike rider suffers injury and/or death. Fortunately Greg walked away sore as hell but okay. Greg has done a terrific write-up and we are lucky to share it. Greg has some great points to say about equipment and what saved Greg's hide How many times have you heard that saying? Like me, probably enough to where you roll your eyes when you hear it. Here is my story. On a beautiful Tuesday morning, we left Good Thing Donuts to ride to Nowhere, Alabama. I was just looking to put some miles on the bike before its upcoming service appointment, and to enjoy Fall coming to Florida. Fifty-some miles later, that all changed. I was the trail bike of five. We were on a great back-country road called Old River Road. Just came out of some nice curves and enjoying the cool temps. All the sudden, a flash of brown crosses my vision. My brain screamed DEER, felt a shudder as it hit the fairing and windshield, and next thing I know I’m sliding along the ground on my right side. I come to rest on my back, I look to my right and the bike is in the trees. I look left, and the deer is trying to stand up and looking at me. The thought crosses my mind that I hope he doesn’t charge me, because I don’t think I can get out of the way. His front leg is broken, he falls and doesn’t move anymore. I call everyone on Mesh to let them know I hit a deer, but by this time they are out of range. I lay on my back and starting at my toes try to see if I feel any pain. I get all the way to my head and neck and don’t feel any problems. So, I get up and go check on the deer and start taking pictures. About that time, riders were showing up to see what happened to me. I still have my helmet on walking along taking pictures. Music is still playing on the speakers, and the bike is standing in the trees almost like it is still moving along the road. About this time, I noticed my modular had flipped open but stayed on my head, so I take it off and check it out. Not a scratch but has some deer hair lodged in the chin bar. So now I start trying to recreate what happened after someone mentions it looks like the bike flipped. My mind has gone over this a hundred times in the last few days. As near as I can remember the deer comes from my left side and I think was trying to jump the bike. He hits and rolls over the windshield and since he came from the left, I am knocked off the right side of the bike. As the deer is rolling over the bike, he must have hit my knee, because I have pain on the knee cap, left side of the knee, and left side of the thigh. As I am sliding along the ground on my right side, I think to myself that I’m glad I have my jeans on that have hip and knee armor. (Funny what you think about in an accident). I also have a jacket on that has shoulder and elbow armor. More on this later…. I slide about ten meters. The bike is another ten meters on my right, the deer is about five meters on my left. As near as I can tell, as soon as the deer hit me and I fell off, all this sliding was in the dirt on the side of the road. There is a huge divot in the dirt where it appears the bike dug in and flipped. I didn’t think at first the the bike flipped, but when I opened the top case everything was upside down. I thank God that the deer knocked me off the bike before it flipped, or my injuries would be much worse. My injuries: I have a scraped knuckle, a scratch on my right arm, my left knee hurts, the top of my right foot hurts, and my right shoulder and shoulder blade hurt. But NOTHING is broken. I started wearing motorcycle-specific jeans about two years ago after seeing how little protection you get from regular jeans. This particular pair is rated AA and has level one ghost armor in the knees and hips. My jacket also has ghost armor in the shoulders and elbows. And I had a modular helmet, full fingered gloves and boots on. I walked away from this with no serious injury and a couple scratches. I am incredibly blessed and lucky! My wife wanted me to go to the ER to get checked out. I grudgingly went, but I’m glad I did. They took some X-rays and determined that I was okay. I’m glad I didn’t have to take a helicopter ride to the hospital! Bottom line, I am glad I had all my gear on. Without it, this would be an entirely different story! Also, I was riding with a great group of friends who also happen to be very good riders. Luckily, we spent the morning in the shade on a back country road instead of waiting on Life Flight. Everyone had water, and the locals were incredibly friendly. One rider left to get his trailer, we took the bike to Pensacola and had Bar-B-Q for lunch instead of sausage in Alabama. I still see a flash of Brown crossing my vision when I lay down at night. My mind goes over this time and again. What would I do different? That’s hard to say. I had no time to react, I was watching for animals while we were riding (I had already noticed some dogs). The deer came out of nowhere. I will definitely be more vigilant next time I’m on a bike, whenever that will be. I thank the Lord above that my injuries were not as serious as they could have been. Greg Lynd
- This weekend saw some outstanding Rides
Well now, let me tell you a tale that would make even the most seasoned rider tip their hat in admiration. Tim W , led on a 200-mile journey on Friday, only to follow it up with a 300-mile adventure on Saturday. The Sandies then saddled up for a 125-mile ride today, with six of their finest, including the Mileage King himself, JoeJoe . Now, JoeJoe, bless his heart, clocked in a staggering 700 miles this weekend. That’s the kind of mileage that legends are made of. Not far behind was Bobby B , who racked up a respectable 500 miles. Kasey K joined the fray today, and thanks to Bobby, we discovered a newly paved road that added a dash of excitement to the ride. Lunch was at Basil And Baxter’s try the Hangover Bowel or The GOAT. Today’s weather with its lower humidity, provided the perfect backdrop for these escapades. Speaking of Tim’s Rides, they are of the finest kind. Tim has a knack for finding the newest, smoothest roads, making every ride a delightful adventure. So, if you ever get the chance, don’t miss out on Tim’s Rides. They’re sure to leave you with a smile on your face and a story to tell. A tip of the hat to JoeJoe for capturing those moments in pictures.
- Can't make the Ride Saturday can Sunday
I have family coming for a visit Saturday, yes Virginia, I have family. But I can Ride Sunday , if you prefer. Now someone can put a ride together Saturday. Just let me know if your going Saturday. I would put the leave times at 8 am not 7am like I had. Sunday leave GTD at 8 am and ride and be home before the pavement blisters.
- Class with a jump
Today we had our August Skills, Indoor Class. Michael M a.k.a. Sensei was gracious enough to teach this Class. 10 Sandies took advantage of this opportunity to learn from some super Rider Coach’s. Chris, The Mitchell , another so very good Rider Coach was on hand to add to the information taught. Our newest Sandie Kasey K was there and remarked what a great class it was. The Chief, Dennis O and Joe W also took part in the Class . I don’t know if you have seen Joe W in a while but Joe has lost weight quite a lot and it looks good on Joe , keep it up sir. Speaking of Joe’s, JoeJoe rode his Hayabusa to Class. Have not seen that Ride of Joes in a while, still looks and sounds great . I was glad Bobby B was among us today. In case you haven’t noticed Bobby has done a tremendous job bringing the Sandies more into the 21st Century. Bobby has reorganized and cleaned up a lot of old fluff . Bobby is also working on a History of the Sandies. If you want to help in this project let Bobby know. 44 years is a lot of history to catch up on. It wouldn’t be a Sandie Day if something out of the ordinary didn’t occur. As we got ready to leave for lunch, M2’s Transalp would not start, Michael deduced he had left his lights on . Some scrambling around occurred but we did get the jump, thank you Kasey and JoeJoe. We then decided on a most inappropriate lunch at Stubbies. We will do the road portion in the fall, be on the look-out for the dates. Thank you again to The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office for the invaluable use of the training room. Mostly though to Michael, you as always teach a great class.
- FL's West-Northwest Tourist Loop
The morning was beautiful as best as I could tell through the helmet. The sun rose against my back while I rode into town. Ok, so it was actually my left side - but I couldn't exactly watch the sunrise and stay on the road. Starting at a donut place, Six Sandies rode to Navarre Beach for breakfast. We ended up riding 159 miles on some of the most iconic scenic roads in the western most end of Florida. To All of the Local Riders Yes, we rode some of the most boring, straight, and traffic ridden roadways in the area. The views were amazing, and it is nice to take a moment to enjoy what others come to visit to see. George and Sam E lead the way to Navarre Beach. George tried everything within the confines of traffic code to shake Munchkin off the trail but he kept up. Munchkin 's white shirt (with a club patch affixed to the rear) flapping gloriously in the wind. We dodged the legendary potholes of Racetrack, hit the slow sweepers of Martin Luther King Jr BLVD, slalomed through two roundabouts, and descended the trench between Doolittle BLVD and HWY 98. With no sideroads remaining, George headed due west. A few miles down the road, our band of five became six as we heard JoeJoe 's "Howdy" on the open mesh intercom. We stopped at Andy D's and had a pretty good breakfast. Both Munchkin and JoeJoe had the " Kitchen Sink ", which apparently has everything you can think of thrown into it. Munchkin ordered his sans fromage (French for cheese, my words not his). Neither Munchkin NOR JoeJoe were able to finish their plates. It's a rare sight to see JoeJoe , la menace pour la cuisine - the menace of the kitchen, too full to finish his plate. It's the first time I've seen both Munchkin and JoeJoe tap out in the near 12 years that I've been riding with this crazy bunch. As we waited for the checks, George mentions that he and Sam are riding out to Opal Beach , then turning back around and getting out of dodge before the heat index ticks 100. I had no idea where Opal beach was, but I used context clues to determine it was somewhere on shade-less Santa Rosa Island. It helped that he said they were taking a left from the parking lot... So, having consumed my mental faculties deducing the location of the aforementioned Opal Beach, I say that I realized yesterday that I have never ridden the HWY 90 Scenic Bluffs of Pensacola. I think I'll press on a little further and hit the touristy roads people drive down when they visit the area. As we head for the door I overhear George telling folks again that he plans to turn around shortly, but that I had a ride planned if they were interested. Greg L chimes in with if there's a ride, he's down for it. By the time I got out of the restroom it had been decided that I'm leading since I have a ride planned. Me having a ride planed was news to me, but I still walked past the group like I knew what I was doing. I had that sinking feeling like there was a lesson in there somewhere that I should be learning. Instead, I donned helmet and took off. For those not familiar with the Garmin XT2, it is fantastic for displaying and navigating your planed route, it is not fantastic at routing on the fly. We headed west, and rode along the barren land of sun scorched earth known as the Santa Rosa Island. Having avoided this road since the almost a no shirt tri , I did not know that they had recently repaved with the darkest of blacktops. They have also reduced the speed limit for your photographing pleasure... This ensures motorcyclist have the opportunity fully enjoy the day's UV index. Today it was 10.7. Crossing the bridge back into Gulf Breeze, Sam and George say their farewells and turn back east. Greg , Munchkin , JoeJoe and I continue north through Gulf Breeze across the three mile bridge until we see the new exchange that takes us to Graffiti Bridge . JoeJoe notes that the bridge is always more colorful each time he sees it. We head along the Bluffs, and I check this off my list of things I have no intention of ever doing again. Now I find myself on HWY 90, headed into Milton just before noon. I knew there were some roads to the northeast I wanted to check out. I also knew I didn't want to go through Milton. The night before I had mapped out a general route in REVER for a tourist to ride without getting lost. Not knowing I would be leading that ride the next day, I had not uploaded said route to the Garmin. I was left to 'wing it', which I now understand is far less cool when you aren't on an actual gold wing. So I turned left on Chumuckla Hwy just as we reached Pace. I couldn't remember if I wanted to take Berryhill Rd or if I meant to avoid it. When I realized we were about to pass it, I panic turned to keep from missing the opportunity. Nine seconds later I realize this was not the direction I needed to be going as it was leading us straight for Milton. A zigzag of seven later, and I eventually made our way over to 87 to cut further north away from Milton. At this point, JoeJoe and Munchkin knew I was making it up as I went and they cut back towards Milton, Navarre, then their respective homes. Greg either felt sorry for me, was lost in his thoughts, or just wanted to make sure I didn't disappear in Alabama. Either way, I made the Neal Kennington Road turn by dumb luck. I still wasn't 100% sure which way I wanted to go, but I knew I needed to come into Sweet Southern Farms from the north to get where I had intended to go. I touched on the map about where the Farms were, and the Garmin plotted a course for me. Awesome, we are back on track and headed where I had intended to go. Now I only have Greg left to call me out for wandering aimlessly around west-northwest Florida. We finally get to Popular Head Church Road. I'm starting to feel like this might be salvageable. We get a few miles down the road, and I spot our next turn on the map: Lighthouse Church Rd. Just then, Greg comes over the intercom and comments that this is a pretty nice road. He says he's never ridden it before. At this point, I lose the never to take what would likely be another wild goose chase down unfruitful roads. So I call it; we enjoy what was left of Popular and make our way back to 90. The rest of the ride home was pretty standard, and boring for NWFL. However, we are always thankful that it was a safe ride and there were no unplanned stops. Nothing about it was planed, you get the idea.
- Hooboy Hot Lunch !
8 Sandies took off after the business meeting to hunt for lunch. The hunt ended at Ye Old Brothers Brewery on 87, north of Navarre. Even though it was hot, that caught you by surprise huh ? We did put in over 100 miles just to do lunch. Food, get it? food lunch, I got a million of them, the adult show is at 10, try the fish. M2 joined us for lunch, Michael will be the speaker at our Annual August Inside Skills Cause its Hotter than Hell class . We have done this inside skills for over 25 plus years. Its free, yep free, for paid up members this is normally a $125.00 class. It will be at 9:00 am on August 18th the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office Training Room in Shalimar, Fl. This class entails learning how to read the road ahead of you, what traffic around you is doing, and the signs of what’s going on around you. Many Sandies will testify to how this class was the reason they came home from a ride and not taking a helicopter ride. To sign up please RSVP using this form ; we do need a head count. Bobby was also a participant of the Hot Lunch Ride and will be keeping the headcount for the aforementioned class . Tony G was with us in a symphony in Orange. I mean orange literally head to toe. You couldn’t miss Tony at midnight in a snowstorm. Kacey K , our newest Sandie was also with us, always a pleasure. Munchkin was on time and nothing untoward happened, a first. It was just a very nice ride and lunch. This Sunday is a Breakfast Ride , 7 am GTD. Heading west for those that want to meet on the road. Not sure yet where but we got choices, should be home before melting temps occur. Special Thank you To Joe R for the great Pictures
- Breakfast Ride Sunday
Breakfast Ride Sunday Sunday is Breakfast Ride since its Breakfast we leave early 7 am . Its not so bad is it Sandy S ? So its 7 am from GTD going West toward Navarre. I held off saying anything cause of the high rain chance but it looks later in the morning. So Sunday at 7 am unless it's pouring down rain, then next week
- A HOT DAY WITH THE SANDIES: A TALE OF NEW BIKES AND ASPHALT ADVENTURES
On a sweltering day, 9 intrepid Sandies took on the heat and embarked on a memorable Skills Sunday. Gathered together were seasoned riders, fresh faces, and a brand-new 2024 Honda TransAlp, lovingly adorned with all the right “farkles” by Michael M, our resident Sensei. Kasey K, our newest Sandie, proved his mettle as a skilled bike handler. JoeJoe, the Asphalt Svengali, meticulously crafted part two of our journey. We encountered wide sweepers, tricky decreasing radius curves, and the full spectrum of real-world scenarios. Skills, after all, is about turning practice into muscle memory. Now, let’s talk about Munchkin. Was David B six months early or an hour late? When Munchkin rolled in at 9 am instead of 8 am, it seemed time itself couldn’t decide. But some things remain constant in this vast world, and Munchkin’s arrival at whatever time is one of them. Tony G showcased his sleek ‘Sea and Sky’ top-trim Spyder—a head-turner, indeed. And then there’s Bobby, fearlessly pushing the limits. When was the last time you heard a big Victory tourer scrape against the asphalt? Watch Bobby tackle part two sometime, and you’ll hear that unmistakable sound—the Sandie’s version of “gettin’ it.” After the ride, we retired to FatBoy’s in Crestview. Good food, attentive service, and blessed air conditioning— Thank you, JoeJoe! For the lay-out. Sam and Bobby handled the necessary range housekeeping, ensuring our day ended smoothly. As the sun beat down, we pondered next month’s Skills. Perhaps an indoor class could spare us the heat? Any volunteers?
- A Taleof Two Wheels and Puns
The Sandies met up this morning on a mix of two and three wheelers, like a vehicular buffet where everyone gets a little bit of everything. We embarked on an early morning adventure. It was a culinary quest that would make any stomach quiver with anticipation. Kasey K, the newest Sandie, astride his Indian steed was the last to arrive at Good Things Donuts. It was a good time to cover the pre-ride brief. Now, let me pause here to clarify something: not all Sandies have a full Happy Meal. Some are missing a few fries, if you catch my drift. Take Sandy S, for instance—certifiable, no doubt. But like circling sharks, the other Sandies can’t wait to hop on the short bus (not the literal one; that’s reserved for field trips). Then there’s Tony G and Bobby B, the dynamic duo of puns. They’re like a comedy routine waiting to happen. Picture this: JoeJoe and George were discussing the new member checklist and Bobby B pops up on the radio, says in deadpan, “I think of Casey Kasem to remember Kasey K.” Now, for those of you who remember the Top 40 Countdown Show hosted by—you guessed it—Casey Kasem. This is pure gold. George barely got out, "Holly Cow, I haven't thought about Casey Kasem in years!" when Tony G chimes in: “So you can say the Sandies made the Top 40.” Cue the silence, broken only by the hum of motors and the gentle swish of tires against asphalt. Now, I’d expect this kind of wordplay from Tommy N, Bobby, or JoeJoe, but Tony G? Who knew he was harboring a secret stash of puns? It’s like finding a hidden snake in the picnic basket—unexpected and slightly alarming. Hey, we’ve got a whole collection of these punsters in the Sandies. To think Tony G is part of that club—it’s enough to break a Cat Herder’s heart. Speaking of words, during breakfast, I casually dropped “proclivity” into the conversation. You’d think I’d exposed the Sandies to raw uranium. “What did he say?” “Where did that come from?” The expressions ranged from baffled to mildly impressed. But fear not, I’m no sesquipedalian (that’s someone who uses long words just to show off). I’m just a rider with a penchant for vocabulary and apparently self-inflicted linguistic injuries. Mark S, sans Lorna, regaled us with the saga of his quest to corner the Blueberry Crown Royal market. Retirement hobbies, folks—sometimes they involve more than just shuffleboard and early-bird specials. And where did this breakfast adventure unfold? North 85 Diner/Penny's Place, north of Crestview. It’s the official kickoff for the Sandie Breakfast Ride Season. We covered about 125 miles, discovered a freshly paved road, and plotted our next escapade in Okie-Dokie County. Because life’s too short to ride boring roads, my friends. So here’s to the Sandies as we raise our Root Beer high, the puns, the proclivities, and the pursuit of breakfast bliss. May your wheels keep turning, your jokes keep groaning, and your adventures keep rolling down those newly paved highways. When in doubt, remember to clasp that punster snake to your bosom and ride on. A special Thank You to Sandy S and JoeJoe for the excellent pictures ,
- Breakfast before we Melt
Just a heads up Breakfast Ride Sunday, 7 am GTD Remember Dues are now Due
- Skills finally got to have one Hot but still a lot of Fun
Sam and I arrived at the Skills range,. JoeJoe, the maestro of this two-wheeled symphony, had orchestrated the layout meticulously. Tri wheelers now joined the ranks—a motley crew of three wheeled Sandies “Tri Sandies,” JoeJoe declared, “need their slice of the asphalt pie.” And so, the Gates expanded, swallowing more real estate. The two wheelers—Bobby B, Tommy N—nodded in approval. But finally Munchkin, perpetually late but always on time, sort of. On time if it was the hour later fall version of Skills. Then JoeJoe cranked up the difficulty dial for part two. Technical maneuvers blurred into adrenaline-fueled ballet. “Faster, tighter, more fun.” We leaned into curves, tires gripping the tarmac like desperate lovers. An hour bled into ninety minutes—a symphony of lean angles, throttle finesse, and laughter. We called it a day, sweat-soaked and grinning. Soon again hope to have another Skills in the early morning coolness.
- Business Meeting & A New Ride-Tony G
From Bobby B After our monthly business meeting, 11 Sandies rode 110 miles for food and fun. We were late to start as folks took a moment to admire the engineering that went into the newest Spyders. Tony G is the proud owner of a new machine and was happy to share the things he has learned so far about it with others. Given the heat index in northwest Florida, the consensus was to keep the ride fairly short. We stopped at the Eagles Nest at Blackwater for brunch. After lunch we headed northwest, and circled back down through Old River Rd from the opposite direction. It was nice to see some of these roads coming from the opposite direction. As we came back towards Niceville we were greeted by the effects of a controlled burn on Eglin. The smoke cloud was thick but we were thankful for the brief reprieve from the intensity of the sun.
- Going to try and have Skills on Sunday
Weather forecast is all over the map, again, Going to try and have Skills. Keep an eye on the we4ather, but it's Summer hours. So GTD at 7:30, Range 8 am it's been awhile so its back to basics. Hope to see ya there, need a brave soul to lead the Herd from GTD.
- It's Meeting this Sunday
It's back to work , Meeting Sunday 9 am Golden Corral
- Get to sleep in late Sunday
Since the Board is going on an Sandie Road adventure. The Business Meeting for this Sunday is rescheduled until Sunday June 7. Remember you only have a week for that savings offer on the Dues. After June 1st its 35.00.
- The Sirens Song
Well we picked up a new Member today, got the money, HOO BOY. Name is Kasey, rides an Indian, was invited by Dawn M. At least we hope Dawn hasn’t lost a few lightbulbs in the attic. When JoeJoe sends a picture we will share. Okay had 9 Sandies today rode 138 miles and almost repeated an adventure I had with water. That would have been two different motorcycles with the same outcome. Went for a Ride after breakfast, normal see. As you know we have a lot of rain, the streams and rivers are running very high. Can you see the picture beginning to develop ? Still a little hazy ? Taking the scenic way to the east entrance to Cory Booker road. Turn go about 50 yards and there it was, water rushing over the road. I began to hear a Siren song, “George, I’m here for you, look you can see the other road, you know you want to Come over its going to be easy”. To add to this chorus of Sirens, were people who had been at the Submarine Christening. Tommy N going “ You know you want to, go ahead” Tony G “Looks easy George “ JoeJoe with Camera clutched tightly in hand, “Go head make my day, I can take some killer shots like the last time, I’ll be famous, go on you can make it”. Bobby B is saying things like “Not again George, I’m not coming in to save you “. Meanwhile Sam is saying “ Don’t be an idiot, don’t do it”. I sit there staring and thinking, “The water is not THAT fast, doesn’t even look that deep, I can see a piece of the road, sides I have a three wheeler, I wonder if it floats” ? . Tim W drives by me, I’m thinking, “I can see if Tim makes it then me maybe”. Damn Tim was only turning around. I stare at the rushing water and realize maybe I did learn my lesson, but just this once….. I turned away and we headed for the long way around. Escambia County Road 134 actually ends at Corey Booker Road, made a right and off we went. Kasey was surprised at how many cool roads we have in NWF . I told Kasey , “Ride with Tim sometime , Tim has some incredible roads in his book bag”. Thank you so much JoeJoe for being Sheepdog today, I really appreciate it. Super ride today, good roads with great friends. It don’t suck being a Sandie does it.
- Remember dues go up the 1st of June, save and renew before then
The Club voted to increase Dues to $35.00 as of June 1st. Beat the rush renew now !
- Tried to have Saturday's Adventure but looking like a wet suit will be needed
Sunday looks a bit better so we will have the first breakfast ride of the year. 8;00 am GTD riding to Breakfast.
- a most not so Ted and Bill's fabulous Adventure
The sun was on a power trip, thinking it’s the boss of the sky, while the Sandies, a band of eight doughnut-powered nomads, were all set to blaze through 188 miles of Florida’s finest tarmac. Their mission? To worship at the altar of the most divine BBQ this side of the mighty Mississippi. The pilgrimage to The Bridge, as they reverently dubbed it, was a breeze. Even Florida’s infamous humidity decided to play hooky, making the ride a slice of Sandie heaven. Now, The Bridge might not have the historical heft of its London namesake, but in the annals of Sandie lore, it’s a legend in its own right. But let’s not put the cart before the horse. For the moment, let’s just say that the Sandie’s BBQ quest nearly bit the dust at The Bridge. The dream of smoky, meaty goodness nearly evaporated like the last wisps of smoke from a grill at dawn. The saga began with an innocent click from Tommy N’s bike—more like a distress signal from his rear tire. “Hey George, time for a pit stop,” Tommy signaled. JoeJoe, the tire whisperer, diagnosed a wood screw. The solution? A pit stop at a concrete bridge on Old River Road, destined to be immortalized as The Bridge. Not the Brooklyn Bridge, not the Victoria Bridge, but The Bridge that would echo in Sandie Road lore eternity. The tire repair kits were whipped out, and the Sandies descended on the rocks and concrete like knights ready for battle. It was a close call, but Tony G, channeling some ancient tire wizardry, triumphed. Tire patched and pride intact, they hit the road again. With their stomachs howling like a pack of wolves, the Sandies made a beeline for Sightler Farms and Mercantile Co., a culinary haven just south of Andalusia on Highway 55. They don’t just dish out BBQ; they serve Bar-B-Que, so sacred it demands to be spelled out in full. Once more, Tony G carved the Sandies into the annals of history. “Rootbeer,” Tony requested. “Nope, but Dr. Pepper’s in the house,” came Tony’s succinct reply. “AK, no,” Tony then asked for grilled chicken?” “Sorry, we’re fresh out.” Tony G had the Bar-B-Que and declared it fit for the Gods. This wasn’t the Sandie’s first rodeo with gastronomic plot twists. Cast your minds back to the Indian Beach Oyster House & Trading post debacle. JoeJoe, perusing the menu, asked for hot dogs, out. hamburgers, out, fish sandwiches same.” “So, what’s on the menu?” “Oysters,” the answer as clear as the establishment’s name. For Tony, it was all about the Bar-B-Que, and despite the menu misadventures, the feast was nothing short of heavenly (get it Gods, heavenly , I still got that old snap). Tim W indulged in a baked potato so decadent, it was like a Bar-B-Que sundae topped with sour cream—a culinary marvel. A very special shout out to Sandy S is in order, for herding this feline frenzy with the grace of a seasoned Sheepdog—much appreciated, Sandy. Tim W bid adieu, taking the path less traveled. The Sandies, true to their creed, ventured home via the scenic detour of Mossy Head—because why take the direct route when you can embrace the extraordinary? As the Sandie mantra goes, “Sandies leave together and Sandies come home together.” And so we did, epic journey and all, mission gloriously accomplished.
- The Pizza Chronicles
Now, I reckon you've heard tales of grand adventures and quests of old, but none so peculiar as the Sandie’s pursuit of a pizza pie. Yes, you heard me right, not for gold nor glory did they ride, but for the love of a good pizza. And not just any hop, skip, and a jump away, but a whole 175 miles. That's no small feat for a slice of heaven, I tell you. These Sandies, a band of free-wheeling spirits, convened under the auspices of commerce and fellowship to discuss the weighty matter of dues. With the world's prices inflating like a hot air balloon, they resolved to up their ante by five dollars. Yet, in a stroke of magnanimity, they offered a reprieve for the early birds—pay before June, and you'd save yourself the increase. A more straightforward transaction there never was, just a click on their web contraption, and your dues were settled. But let us return to the heart of our story—the ride. Six Sandies embarked on this culinary crusade, while Munchkin, with duties calling, bid them adieu. Tommy, Mark, and Tony G, those mechanical maestros, stayed behind to tend to their iron horses. The rest, well, they were off to commune with the open road. Tim W and his compatriot Hal joined the procession, their hearts set on the quest for the perfect pizza. They journeyed a hundred miles, each turn a brushstroke on nature's canvas. Then, in a twist that would vex the very soul of any pizza purist, JoeJoe, that maverick of mischief, dared to order a Hawaiian pizza. Pineapple upon cheese and sauce, a concoction as outlandish as a catfish with a top hat. It's akin to suggesting that Mr. Biden might choose Mr. Trump as his right-hand man—preposterous!( Spoiler alert, Never happen) Yet, there they were, the Sandies, a fellowship bound not by common sense but by an unyielding appetite for adventure—and, apparently, tropical fruit on their pizza. They feasted, they debated, and they reveled in the absurdity of it all. So here's to the Sandies, those dauntless nomads of the highway. May their tanks always be full, their spirits never dampened, and their pizzas forever unconventional? The great Pictures by that Hawaiian Pizza Eater
- Sunday Business meeting
9 am at Golden Corral, we welcome our New Officers with a new addition to the Board. Then its off to lunch
- One of our best Turn-outs in quite awhile and the Ride was fantastic.
Had a great turnout for a ride to Opp AL, 14 Sandies rode 175 miles to eat. Yea and that’s strange how ? I mean come on, its Sandies for gosh sakes. Before we get into the grisly details about Sandies and food, some atta boys and welcome back we missed you’s. First the, missed you bunches, what took you so long, to come home ? Nikki G is back with us and how sweet it is. We all missed that humor and attitude. I can tell you Tony missed ya, welcome back. The Welcome Yugo broke down, still looking for parts. But it’s good ta have you back. Then our Atta Boy Ya Done Real Good goes to Melanie W. Melanie has done gone and got her Motorcycle Endorsement, whoop whoop ! Melanie can transport Joe around those nappy days, when Joe wants to rest. Congratulations Melanie ! In the haven’t seen you in a while Dept. It was especially great to see Greg L . Greg it was really cool to see you and that ultra-nice Beemer again. In the let’s get this over cause this is the Sandies nothing remains a secret, ever, in The Sandies. Opp AL is about 80 miles away, the restaurant, Wheelhouse, opens at 11 am. So I figure that with the Sandies we can leave at 8 am and take our time getting there. Well I guessed wrong we got there about 10 am an hour from us. The one thing you don’t want is restless Sandies with time on their hands. This Club is the living embodiment of “Idle hands are The Devils workshop”. So I figured a ride to Frank Jackson State Park was a good idea. Frank Jackson is a pretty place got a little beach and nice picnic grounds. Oh I forgot Tim W just came back from 2300 mile Trip. By the looks of Tim’s Spyder It must have been a rough one, I mean cigarette butts in the radiator grill? Tim must really have quite a tale to tell. We still got to The Wheelhouse a bit early like about 5 minutes. You’d a thought folks had to wait hours in the broiling hot Sun. I do know the cook was taking a smoke break , spotted all of us parking and tossed his smoke and hot footed it back to the kitchen. Once again Club Sandies strike fear in the hearts of restaurant folks. The food and service were excellent prices not bad. We are planning a return Adventure. I want to try Moonpie Banana pudding oh and the Bread Pudding also sounded very special. Speaking of restaurants we had Mark and Lorna S with us on their Spyder. See I told you we had special folks with us. I mean Mark is always kinda special, in a kind way. I know I sound redundant but I can’t say this enough, thank you Tommy for your Sheepdoging again today. Especially when I lose comm with everyone. Then the job of leading falls to the Team Tommy, Sandy and Sam. With situation reports from Tommy, Sam knows what’s happening and let me tell you Sam is pretty good at herding cats. Thanks Team you guys are the best as always. On the way home ran into one of those questions that make you wonder. We had gotten to Old Bethel and highway 85, I usually go left follow Old Bethel the Antioch etc. Well Bobby, Tony, Greg and Tim all stayed on 85 heading South. I began to wonder why I took the other route especially when Tommy said The Garmin added 6 minutes to the return time. Then it hit me, my way was longer but on a hot return trip there was more riding less traffic. I know that’s not great reasoning but it seems less obstructive traffic density and red lights. It was a great Ride, I mean when is a Sandie Ride truly a Bad Ride ? It really don’t suck being a Sandie. Sensei Thank you Sandy S for the great pictures . I think this picture explains the Sandies perfectly, it ain't about your Ride. It's the fact that you do ride.