Tentative - 2017 Dates for OMC Sponsored Events - Tentative

The reason the post title shows "tentative" twice means that much discussion is still needed.  

The January 5 meeting will be very important for everyone to attend as the $50 yearly dues need to be turned in at that meeting and there are many items of business to discuss.  

These items include the changes in meetings and socials, the guest policy for OMC Runs, OMC Run changes and many more.  

Please make every effort to be there at 6 p.m. (new time).

2017 O.M.C. Events

2017 OMC Meeting & Social Dates

January 5 – Meeting

February 2 – Social

March 2 – Meeting

April 6 – Social

May 4 – Meeting

June 1 – Social

July 6 – Meeting

August 3 – Barbecue

September 7 – Meeting

October 5 – Social

November 2 – Meeting

December 7 – Social

All Meetings are mandatory, and at the Fairview Clubhouse at 6:00 p.m. unless otherwise notified.

All Socials are non-mandatory, and at the Fairview Clubhouse at 6:00 p.m. unless otherwise notified.

OMC Members and ratified Prospects only.

Spouses are invited to the Barbeque.

 OMC Joseph Spring Run 2017

• Friday   June 16       235 Miles

The ride will begin with breakfast at the Garage Café in Notus, Idaho at 8 a.m.

Notus - Parma - Nyssa - Baker City - Haines - Elgin.

Lunch will be at the White Horse Cafe in Elgin.

Elgin - Wallowa - Enterprise - Joseph.

Dinner will be at the Stubborn Mule in Joseph.

Overnight lodging will be at the Indian Lodge Motel (541-432-2651) in Joseph, Oregon. Each rider must make their own reservations.

• Saturday   June 17      220 Miles

Breakfast will be at the Cheyenne Cafe.

Joseph - Pine Creek - Hells Canyon - Cambridge.

Lunch will be at The Ranch House in Cambridge.

Cambridge - Weiser - Payette - Sand Hollow - Middleton.

This ride is open only to OMC members and who they invite.  Guests must be approved by the President.

OMC Salmon Summer Run 2017

• Thursday   July 20    244 Miles 

 The run will begin at the Chevron Station at Highway 55 and Beacon Light at 9 a.m. sharp.

Horseshoe Bend – Banks – Cascade – McCall – New Meadows – Grangeville – Orofino

Overnight lodging will be in Orofino at Best Western Rivers Edge, 615 Main Street, (208) 476-9999.  Each rider is responsible for making their own reservation.

• Friday   July 21        292 Miles

The run will continue with departure at 8 a.m. sharp.

Orofino - Kamiah – Kooskia – Lochsa Lodge – Lolo – Florence – Victor – Hamilton – Darby – Sula – Salmon

Overnight lodging will be in Salmon at The Stagecoach Inn, 201 Riverfront Drive, (208) 756-2919.  Each rider is responsible for making their own reservation.

• Saturday   July 22      251 Miles

The run will continue with departure at 8 a.m. sharp.

Salmon – Challis – Stanley – Lowman – Crouch – Banks – Horseshoe Bend – Boise

This run is open to OMC members and who they invite.  Guests must be approved by the President.

 OMC Challis Spring Run 2017

• Friday   August 25    271 Miles

The run will begin promptly at the Chevron at 9:00 a.m. at Gowen Rd. and I-84.

Boise - Mountain Home - Carey - Arco.

Lunch will be at Pickles in Arco.

Arco - Mackay - Challis.

Overnight lodging will be at Challis Hot Springs for the first 8 guests who make reservations. Call the Challis Hot Springs at (208) 879-4442. Get your own reservations.  The remaining riders will make arrangements to stay in town.

Bring money to pay for dinner which will be prepared and served at Challis Hot Springs.

• Saturday   August 26     220 Miles

  

Breakfast will be at Challis Hot Springs. All but those 8 lucky folks who made reservations will have to pay for breakfast at the Hot Springs or eat in town.

We will depart at a time set by the Ride Captain. Time is needed for soaking in the pool. Bring swim suit.

Challis - Stanley - Lowman - Crouch.

Lunch will be in Crouch.

Banks - Horseshoe Bend - Boise.

This run is open only to OMC members and who they invite. Guests must be approved by the President.

2016 OGRES Social with Spouses Report

We all met at Mr. and Mrs. Rip City's home at the appointed time.  Someone was fashionably late as usual but I won't mention any names (G-Man).  Members present (with their spouses): Grim, Bomber, Rip City, Smooth and G-Man.  Members absent: Duke (I'm be out of town again), Krome (That's enough notice....I can arrange my schedule to be there), Big Easy and Zeus.

Greetings, salutations and hugs were exchanged and afterwards a bit of socializing occurred prior to a great meal.  Tenderloin with a vegetable medley was served after the attendees had finished off a great pomegranate salad.  G-Man thought the steak sauce tasted great on his greens and pomegranate salad.  Everyone at the dinner table joined in light and clever banter as we consumed the wonderful food leading up to three kinds of chocolate ice cream, one kind of vanilla ice cream and two different kind of cookies fresh from the oven.

We did learn some new things about Rip City and his upbringing.  First aid was also discussed in an unusual way.

No gang wrecks occurred so alls well that ends well.

Rip gave us a great tour of his home and "boathouse" along with a view of the palatial lawns and gardens.  What a nice home and what a great time was had by all.

OMC Social This Coming Thursday at Rip City's Home at 6:30 p.m. with Spouses

The annual OMC gala barbecue is this coming Thursday, October 20th, at 6:30 p.m.  The wingding will be held at Mr. and Mrs. Rip City's abode in Caldwell.  Spouses are encouraged to attend with members in good standing only.

See you there.  Contact me via private email or text if you need Rip City's address.

OMC October 6, 2016 Meeting Report

The meeting was commenced, as scheduled, at the Clubhouse on Fairview.  Present: G-Man, Rip City, Bomber, Smooth and Grim.  Absent: Krome, Big Easy and Duke.

Those present first enjoyed Taco Bell Doritos Supreme tacos along with non-adult beverages.  Grim brought 3 dozen so the attendees had their work cut out for them.  I believe Grim ate more than Rip City but who keeps count.

G-Man's paramedic son was our featured presenter for the evening.  He gave us great information about "Rider Down" first aid and other topics to help us hand medical emergencies while on a Run.
Part of the fun was the first grade environment with some members waving their hands in the air to interrupt the presentation with the speaker telling them to wait as the topic was upcoming.  I just hope those dust plumes around one's mouth don't occur again.

The aforementioned paramedic also brought some of this knife collection and shared some great knives and knife information with us.  I was tempted to slip a few in my pocket but the "angel on my shoulder" prevailed.  I am definitely going to have him tune up and sharpen some of my knives.

The next OMC activity is the barbecue with the spouses and Mr. and Mrs. Rip City's home on October 20th at 6:30.  I can't wait to taste that prime beef fresh off the grill.  See you there.

Next OMC Meeting October 6th at 6:30 p.m.

Due to popular demand, the OMC meeting on October 6th is reinstated, as originally scheduled, and will be held at the Clubhouse on Fairview.

This Meeting is mandatory and is needed as we had neither a Meeting or a Social in September.

This is a Meeting and not a Social.  Food and drink will be served.  Only members are invited.

The OMC Social will still be held on October 20th at Mr. and Mrs. Rip's house at 6:30 p.m.  Members and member spouses are invited.

Next OMC Social October 20th With Spouses at Rip City's Home at 6:30 P.M.

The next OMC Social will be on Thursday October 20th at 6:30 p.m.  The social will be a barbecue at Mr. and Mrs. Rip City's home.  Please bring your spouses for a great time.

The meeting will still be held on October 6th.

OMC Meeting/Barbecue Cancelled for September 9, 2016

Due to lack of projected attendance, the OMC Meeting/Barbecue, with our spouses, scheduled for September 9th has been cancelled.

Please look at you availability for the OMC October Social on October 20th or 21st.  Perhaps we can have a get together, INCLUDING SPOUSES, on one of those dates.  Please let me know, as soon as possible, if you can attend OR NOT so I can put something together to replace the cancelled barbecue.

2016 OMC Fall Run Report

G-Man, Duke, Fresh Meat, Grim, Bomber, Rip City, Joyous, Gundy and Krome in Ukiah, Oregon

We met up at the appointed place and time for the 2016 OMC Fall Run.  Present: G-Man, Duke, Grim, Bomber, Rip City and Krome.  Guests: Fresh Meat, Joyous and Gundy.  Not present: Smooth, Big Easy and Zeus.

We headed north up old Highway 30 to Payette and then up yonder to Cambridge where we fueled and stretched our legs.  We then headed to Hells Canyon.  Just before we hit the river, large black crickets blanketed the roadway and it was kinda creepy as they were flattened by the nine riders passing through.  We continued to the turnoff and were pleasantly surprised to find the road freshly paved from the main highway to the overlook.

Somewhere along this stretch, Bomber started to fall asleep on his motorcycle (I guess we made it too comfortable) and he pulled over to grab a snack out of his "Snak Pak".  The "sweep", G-Man, pulled over with him.  We all turned at the overlook except Meat and Duke as they missed the turn without a sweep to watch out for them.

We all got back together in Joseph and had a nice lunch at the Outlaw Cafe.

The Outlaw Cafe, Joseph, Oregon

We all received our food and were eating except for Rip "Social Butterfly" City who was having a conversation or lie telling contest with the restaurant owner.  It was clear we were going to be finished, again, before he even started eating.  Somehow, when Rip City returned to the table, his lovely sandwich had transformed into two hamburger buns (yes, just the buns with a bite taken out of them) on his plate.  Well, I can tell you that Bomber and Grim were dumbfounded by the turn of events.  We did manage to find Rip City's burger and his appetite was brought under control.

Duke had about seventeen phone calls to make so Meat and Grim waited for him while the rest of the troupe headed to Enterprise to check out the vendors at the Thunder Run Motorcycle Rally.  We caught up with them there just as they were leaving as the vendor "thing" was a bust as it was too early in the Rally.  

We grabbed some gas and then headed to Weston.  Grim missed the turn to Weston and we had to turn around and drive through the town.  We then headed into Pendleton where we found our way to the hotel.  After a brief respite, we adjourned to Rooster's where we had a nice meal.  (Thanks to Rip City for his flexibility and not making Grim ride 20 miles, round trip, to the buffet at the Casino).  A nice meal was had and we returned to the hotel for some sleep.  Grim had to pass on the pool and the jacuzzi as the area was swarmed with children.  Bummer.

Most of the group went to Taco Bell for breakfast and the reports were very positive.  Grim tried to gulp down some rubber eggs and some bloody hash at the hotel but could not stomach the fare.  Grim woke to find he had parked his motorcycle too close to a grassy island and the sprinklers had watered his bike all night.  Unfortunately, Krome had parked next to him.  Time was taken to remove some water spots and then we were on our way.

G-Man had advised Grim, who was leading, that we should stop at Ukiah for gasoline as he wasn't sure how far it was to  the next stop.  We did stop at Ukiah although it was a couple of miles off the road on a slip of highway that had just been chipped and sealed.  Turns out the single pump in town, which Grim had driven right by as it was surrounded my lovely metal sculptures, only spewed forth regular gasoline.  Not the cup of tea for Grim's Glide.  The day was saved by Krome's timely purchase of a cartoon of Ding Dongs which were dispersed amongst the travelers.    

G-Man told Grim the next turn was at County Road 20 and the turn would be so apparent that there is no way that Grim could miss it.  Foolishly, Grim believed him and led off in a cloud of chip and seal.  After a bit, Grim spied a sign that showed the mileage to Galena, and the name faintly rang a bell, but the turn was not so apparent as G-Man had promised, and Grim sped ahead.  After a few miles, Rip City finally passed the front of the group spinning his finger above his head as to communicate we needed to turn around.  Did I ever tell you that Grim hates that finger motion more than even the most obvious ones?

We all met up back at the turn-off and Grim handed the lead off to G-Man for the rest of the day.  G-Man said not worry as the turn was not well marked and anyone could have missed it !?

We took off down County Highway 20 (You could see the sign after you made the turn) and the wild ride of Mr. Toad began.  Grim thought he was in the Indianapolis 500 complete with gobs of cattle guards.  I managed to keep from losing the fillings in my teeth.

We stopped just prior to the main highway to Nyssa and G-Man scouted ahead for food.  He found Austin's Cafe and we stopped there for lunch.  Grim had a great bison burger and it looked like everyone had some great food.  Rip "Butterfly" City appeared again holding a bow and arrow and somehow the waitress ended up wearing his cut.  

We then headed out, like bats out of hell, and made our way to Nyssa where we stopped for gasoline.  We were almost fueled when Meat and Duke finally arrived.  Not their fault*.

After fueling, we headed on towards Vale.  Cages were immediately between members of the ride splitting the group and causing a lot of passing but we did make it safely to Vale where we stopped on the Idaho side of the bridge to wait for Duke.  

Two near gang wrecks later, we finally got untangled from a grey Suburban and rode the rest of the way to the same place we started.  I can't say more than that because......well, because.  I do have a educational topic for the November meeting.

We all said our farewells while hoping we weren't run over as most were parked in the drive through at the Mini Mart.  Hopefully, we can plan this ride next year when it won't conflict with the Rally in Enterprise.  A return to our traditional Fall Run would be nice.  

See you at the barbecue at Rip City's crib for the September meeting.  Please let him know if you can't make it.  Or don't.  I will eat your rib eye steak also if you can't attend.

*Grim retracts his agreement with Joy that you keep up with the leader or it's on you.  It's much, much more than that.  It's an unspoken contract.  Grim apologizes for sending that wrong message.

OMC September 9th Meeting - Barbecue at Rip City's Home - 6:30 PM

Mr. and Mrs. Rip City

Just a heads up.  The September OMC Meeting will be at Rip City's home in Caldwell.

Make note this meeting will be on FRIDAY, September 9th, at 6:30 p.m.  Spouses are especially invited to this meeting.

The address will be sent in a private e-mail as I don't want to post it in this announcement/reminder.

Special thanks go to Mr. and Mrs. Rip City for hosting this meeting.  I have no doubt it will "rock".

OMC Fall Run This Friday August 26th

The OMC Fall Run begins this Friday, August 26th, at 8 a.m.  We will meet at the gas station at Highway 44/Old Highway 30 west of Middleton.

After a short safety briefing, prepare for immediate departure at 8:15 sharp.  We are riding a longer day than usual (302 miles) so prompt departure is important.

If you show up, and you are late, and no one is there.....ride north.  First stop for gas is in Cambridge.

OMC 2016 Summer Run Report

G-Man, Dan, Fresh, Grim, Duke, Marlene, Bomber, Krome, Joy and Rip "Beaver" City

I wish I could say we all met at the appointed time and place but that would be half true.  I will give you one guess as to who showed up last.  Uh huh.

Present: G-Man, Grim, Duke, Smooth, Bomber, Krome and Rip City (and three guests).  Absent: Big Easy and Zeus.

After a safety meeting and introductions, we headed up Highway 55 and proceeded to McCall through light traffic.  We stopped for gasoline in McCall at the Chevron.

McCall

As you can see, Scarecrow is on his phone while everyone is having real life interaction.  While we were there, Stan Moss drove by in his classic 55 Chevy Belair.  Someone took him for a ride on his trike, but I won't mention any names.  The evidence may have been captured on film to be used against the unmentioned OMC member at a later date.

We headed on up north and continued past New Meadows.  Somewhere between New Meadows and Riggins, a covey of sage hen was seen crossing the road.  Grim slowed down thinking they were quail and would be off the road in a timely fashion.  Unfortunately, the last of the juvenile sage hen panicked, reversed direction and flew up directly in front of Grim.  Grim thought the sage hen had struck his fairing and had continued on in some fashion.  But, as luck would have it, Grim discovered the bony carcass wrapped around his engine guard about ten miles later.  The sage hen was extricated without difficulty and the trauma was over.

We rolled into Grangeville taking the back way due to road construction.  Duke had been attacked by a bee and part of the group was separated but Bomber alertly waited by the detour so the lost ones would know the way.  We rolled into more construction outside of Grangeville but G-Man alertly (not really) found a quicker way to the diner where the group enjoyed a great lunch.

Then it was on to Orofino.  The back way is a fun ride although we ran into quite a few vehicles in front of us including a motor home that allowed most of us to pass but the stragglers were caught behind when the motor home pulled back out.  I guess one should not straggle.

We arrived at Orofino, checked in, and hit the pool as soon as possible.  The Best Western is a much needed surprise in little Orofino and the pool and patio are great.  We made use of all including the happy hour.  Krome got into a lot of trouble passing around cookies without the staffers approval and she gave him a withering glare.  Krome "got" us all later saying the cookies were on his room tab (they weren't but he some of us really believing).  G-Man disappeared for a while to deliver some mail (he was too cheap to buy a stamp).  As usual, we had a splendid repast at the restaurant next door.

The next morning, we headed out early and headed over Lolo Pass.  It was a great ride all the way to Lolo.  We had a few false starts finding a place to eat in Hamilton when a local told us to go to the "Little Blue Joint" in Darby.  So we did.  There we found great food and a waitress whose voice volume almost broke some ear drums.  Some members (Rip City) persisted in asking more and more questions to prolong the agony of the waitress' speaking.  We gained some respite after everyone was fed and she moved a distance away.  Next year we will call and make sure she is working so we can have that much fun again.

We then hit the great shops in Darby buying pins, badges, candy and cool wall hangings.  A person could spend a lot of time in those shops as there is much to see and touch.  We also stopped by the custom hat makers shop but Rip City left empty handed again.

Goodie Stop

We then headed over the pass to get to Salmon.  At one of the stops, Bomber opened the "Goodie Tour Pak" and many members and guests helped him eat some of the goodies.

After a great ride over the pass, we arrived in Salmon and checked into the nicest motel in Salmon.  It is believed the motel is a "Minus Star" motel but at least the pool and hot tub were not occupied by a family reunion from Kuna or Garden City this year.  We ate at the nice little restaurant up the street where the Mud Pie and Key Lime pie is king.

Some of us got in the pool after dinner and there is a vicious roomer that some folks may have inadvertently been pushed into the very cold pool.  It was not caught on film and therefore cannot be substantiated.

The dawn found us headed south to Challis and we found ourselves on a recently chipped and sealed riding surface.  A slow pace was had for awhile but then the lead rider became impatient and picked up speed, especially upon seeing how fast the other motorized traffic was going.  Sorry about that broken headlight, Krome.

We rolled through Challis and turned towards Stanley.  After going a couple of miles, it was observed that only three or four riders were present.  The lead rider went back to see if a horrific gang wreck had occurred.  It was found that the entire remainder of the wild OMC riders had stopped because Rip City had lost the "beaver" from the seat of his bike.  The lead rider was not sure which caused him more consternation......that Rip City had lost his "beaver" or that the entire group had stopped because Rip City lost his "beaver".  Grim sure as hell would not have stopped.

We proceeded on into Stanley where some grabbed some gas and a break was taken at the foot of the great Sawtooth mountains.

Smooth Made It In This Photo

We then headed over Banner Summit and down to Lowman.  It was amazing how many vehicles  pulled over for us when they saw the string of bikes.  It was a quick jaunt and was highly enjoyable.  We then turned towards Garden Valley where we went a record distance before running into a red Honda who would not yield.   In fact, the driver slowed and pulled a clear to the right making it more dangerous to follow than it was to pass.  So we passed.  We stopped at Garden Valley for gas and then on into Crouch for lunch.  The Longhorn has changed hands and the service and food are much better.  I especially enjoyed the berry cobbler and ice cream.

Then it was on to Banks and south back to Boise.  Traffic was heavy and slow until we hit Horseshoe Bend hill where we were able to pass the slow movers.  The heat was palpable after being up in cooler climes.  We said our goodbyes at the same place we started the trip and reluctantly headed home.

This writer greatly enjoyed the trip as, I believe, did the other members and the guests.  I did get a little worn out asking to borrow others cell phones, at many stops, because I had left mine in my bike for the majority of the trip.  I wonder what it would be like to have a trip sans any electronic devices like the old days.  I guess I need to Google it to see if anyone does that anymore.

OMC Summer Run Thursday July 21 (In Two Days)

This coming Thursday, we will be leaving at 8 a.m. sharp from the Chevron Gasoline Station at Beacon Light and Highway 55.  The weather looks dandy and this Run is shaping up to be an epic one.

July 2016 OMC Meeting Report

The meeting convened, as scheduled, at the Clubhouse.  Present: Krome, Bomber, Rip City, Duke, G-Man and Grim.  Absent: Smooth, Big Easy and Zeus.

Matters of business and the state of the OMC were discussed.  It was mentioned there were not many rooms left in Orofino so phones calls were in order for those without reservations.  Many national problems were solved. We quickly realized how hungry we were and got on our bikes and headed over to Rudy's for food.

The round table was free and we lucked out and were given a waitperson that could/would put up with our collective crap especially Rip City's diatribe and demands.  My only complaint was that I ordered before being informed that Duke was covering the tab.  Dang it.

We talked a lot of trash about the members who were absent and did our best to keep Rip City awake.  Bomber made a splendid suggestion about turning the OGRES into a car club when we were too old and decrepit to ride two wheelers.  We reiterated our lack of desire to keep the Club running or to create a legacy.  Our goal is to have maximum fun for current members without worrying about the continuity of the OMC.

After ice cream and cake, we headed our separate ways looking forward to the Summer Run.  See you then.

Meeting Tomorrow Knight July 7th at 6:30 p.m.

Tomorrow knight is our mandatory OMC Meeting for July.  We will meet at the Clubhouse at 6:30 and will ride to dinner after a short business meeting.

Happy Fourth of July

Rip "Cherokee" City on Parade in Caldwell, Idaho

2016 OMC Spring Run (Challis) Report

All members and guests met at the appointed place and time for a safety briefing and pre-ride antics.  It was there we found we had a celebrity with us.  He was wearing one white glove and that is all I can divulge.  Members present: Duke, G-Man, Smooth, Rip "Thriller" City, Grim , Big Easy, Bomber and Krome.  Guests present: Fresh and Marlene.  Member absent: Zeus.

Smooth, Krome, Rip "Thriller" City, Bomber, Marlene, Big Easy and G-Man at Picabo, Idaho

After the prerequisite banter and catching up, we hit the road and headed north through Mountain Home.  At Mountain Home, Duke and Fresh had to peel off for a conference call with Hillary and Bernie, I believe.  Or someone.

The rest of us headed on towards Fairfield.  It was a pleasant ride with little or no traffic.  The highlight was spotting a solo pronghorn antelope grazing about 25 yards from the road before reaching Fairfield.  We arrived at Picabo and gassed up.  Although we have stopped here every year, Smooth could not remember being inside and commented on how nice it was.  I hear the nice thing about Alzheimers is that you keep getting to visit new places.

After a snack, some may have had DingDongs, we headed on to Arco.  Again, it was a pleasant ride through the lava fields and traffic was almost nil.  We landed at Pickles for our annual repast.  Duke and Fresh caught up with us at this point.  

Duke, Krome, Fresh, Smooth, Grim, Bomber, Big Easy, Marlene, Rip "Thriller" City and G-Man in Picabo

I had my usual double Buffalo burger and fries with a diet cola.  It was delicious although somehow the late arrivals to the table, G-Man and Big Easy, ordered and received their food first.  Yeah, I know, nobody ever said life was fair.  Much thanks to Krome for sponsoring the luncheon.

We climbed back on our bikes and headed toward Mackay. Again, it was a pleasant ride with little traffic and a nice temperature.  However, the very stiff crosswinds made for "interesting" riding from Arco to Challis.  Not only were the crosswinds strong but gusting.  The conditions kept you on your toes and I was grateful for my steady steed which didn't seem to notice.  I was glad to have the winds instead of the driving hail storm we rode through last year.  I had planned to stop at the Mount Borah viewpoint but it was pretty busy and my horse could smell the Challis barn.

We arrived at the Challis Hot Springs in plenty of time for soaking in the hot springs and hanging out comparing fish stories and complimenting each other on our swim wear.  We settled into our rooms and then checked in after meeting Chris and Bill Freelove, the new managers.  We reacquainted ourselves with Cathy, who has been at the bed and breakfast for awhile.

Most of us hit the hot springs as soon as we could to enjoy the restorative waters.  After a little "nappy", Rip "Thriller" City joined us albeit sporting a black glove instead of the trademark white glove.  Many topics were discussed including male directed medical exams but the traditional rock throwing did not take place as G-Man was not present because he and Bomber took a longer "nappy" than Rip "Thriller" City and never showed until pool time was over.

After a short respite, dinner was served in the Octagon.  I got to sit at the "kids table" and get away from the adults for a while.  Huge steaks, roasted potatoes and asparagus, corn on the cob were the order of the day.  Scrumptious.  Some berry concoction with ice cream topped it off.

Most all of us adjourned to the main house to watch game four of the NBA Finals.  There was also a rumor of a card came that broke out spontaneously in view of the television.  The card game was actually very interesting as the other players only had to help the banker (rumored to be Rip "Billy Jean" City) count chips rather than the usual practice of keeping him from making bad plays.  This practice was rumored to have backfired on the aforementioned other players as Rip "Jam" City came out on top in winnings.  It was hard to tell as Rip "Man in the Mirror" City was the bank and, well, you know.

Marlene, Rip "Thriller" City, Krome, Smooth, Grim, Big Easy, Fresh, Duke, Bomber and G-Man at Challis

After a nights sleep and a great breakfast, we gathered for our annual Challis photo opportunity and then started up our bikes for the run of the day.  It took a little longer than usual, as Rip "PYT" City had to uncover his Indian and make ready.  I am still on the hunt for some nice lace to go around the bottom of his Indian cover and top it with a nice pink bow.  

It was a little chilly and and everyone put on a few more layers when getting gas at the Phillips 66 in town.  Some members needed remediation training on how to run the old fashioned gas pumps.  It was very nice to get pure premium with no additives.

We headed down towards Stanley enjoying the sweeping curves and the road that winds along the river.  Again, traffic was light and the ride was only interrupted by one knothead pulling a trailer whose mirrors did not afford vision to the rear.  We arrived in Stanley in one piece and stopped for gas and a break.  I put on another layer as I was shivering from the chilly ride.

In Stanley, Bomber cracked open "The Snack Pak" and everyone chowed down on the lovely snacks that Bomber's "better half" had created for the ride.  It was a nice break and many other motorcycles came and went while the OMC had a little picnic.  It was still pretty chilly and a few members put on another layer and I grabbed my warmer gloves.

We departed without incident and headed up to Banner Summit.  The speed limit was the order of the day up to the top of banner summit but it was a different story on the other side heading down the mountain.  As I led the pack, I was sure I saw a sign designating an 80 mile per hour zone and being a law abiding citizen, I complied.  (It's my story and I am sticking to it.)  We flew off the summit, enjoying the sweeping and tight turns, and it must not have been too fast as the headlights in my rear view mirror remained constant.  It was exhilarating and Big Easy reported seeing flashes of white light.  He was assured it was okay unless he saw a hand reaching out towards him from the light.

Unfortunately, we came upon a slow moving pickup truck (going the speed limit) and our delightful free fall off the mountain was slowed.  The driver was nice enough to pull over and let us pass in Lowman and we waved our appreciation.  We immediately came up behind another pickup truck carrying brush and branches.  This nice driver also let us pass but I was not surprised as the truck was showing Idaho Vandal license plates.  A little further down we came up behind a soccer mom mini van and our speed was stymied.  This driver was not as cooperative.  We followed the soccer mom van into Garden Valley where we stopped for gasoline.

Garden Valley, Idaho

We fueled up and had a spirited conversation about the changes in the new Mount Rushmore touring bikes and there were some comments made about high speed riding.  It was a great ride off the Banner Summit.  We headed on to Crouch for lunch.

We arrived at the restaurant and it was clear there was new ownership.  The owner quickly set up a large table for us, as though we were royalty, and added a table when the patrons next to us departed.  We ordered our food and it actually came out in quick order.  It was quickly noted that three of the guests, who ordered the fish and chips, had dissimilar portions.  It was brought to the waiter's attention and he suggest one of us give the other a piece to make it even.  Well, I laughed as I was not giving up my fish.  Eventually, the waiter came back and said the portions were by weight and not by piece.  That explanation went over like a lead balloon with Bomber but that was the one ripple in the luncheon pond.  I will get the prime rib sandwich with double meat next time.  We marked our calendar as Rip "Don't Stop Til You Get Enough" City had fries that were crispy enough.  But then he smothered them in ketchup......!?!?  It actually was a very pleasant lunch with no bugs and very nice weather.  It was, by far, overall the nicest time we have had at that restaurant.  Thanks to Duke for sponsoring the luncheon and to Rip "Man in the Mirror" City for sponsoring the ice cream dessert.

Rip "Thriller" City with a Watchful Eye for Autograph Seekers in Crouch, Idaho

We remounted our faithful iron horses and made ready to leave.  Duke seemed to be ready for a quick getaway so I don't know if we "dined and dashed" or not.

Duke getting out of Dodge

It was very nice to cruise down into lower elevations without the oppressive heat that usually greets us as we ride closer to Boise, the city of trees.  We only had one car split our entourage and that was unusual for that stretch of road.  It was probably because of the cool headsets that Duke and Fresh were sporting.  

We arrived at Beacon Light and 55 where we said our goodbyes.  Big Easy had ridden Krome's rented Road Glide from Crouch and we almost had to pry him from the saddle as he did not want to give it up.  Our mechanic has told us not to ride a new touring bike unless you want to buy one and he is correct.  We exchanged hugs and handshakes before reluctantly departing our separate ways.  I truly hated for this ride to end as it was definitely right up there on the lists of OMC best rides.  

I hope the Summer Run gets here soon.  If you haven't made your reservations, I would get on that.  Orofino is alway nice in July.  And that cowboy hat is still waiting for Rip "Dad Hat" City in Darby.

OMC Spring Run This Coming Friday June 10-11

We will be departing from the Chevron at Gowen/I-84 at 8 a.m.  The weather forecast in Challis calls for sunny, and 84 degrees, on Friday and 76 degrees, with a chance of a stray rain cloud, on Saturday.

Rare Sue Sighting

Sue and Grim

I took my Glide by Boise Cycle to have a "once over" checkup after doing so many things to it.  A handlebar adjustment was also needed.

I harangued Sue into taking a picture with me.  I have looked through the customer showcase on the Boise Cycle website and have not seen her in any photos.  I had to beg which is easy for me being married for 40 years.

Sue is a kind, wonderful person with a big heart who has watched out for and put up with me for 15 years.  She does a great deal of volunteer work to help care for cats and dogs.

Keep the rubber side down.  If you haven't looked through the customer showcase, here is the link:

http://www.boisecycle.com/customer_showcase.htm

OMC May 2016 Meeting Report

Grim, Rip City, Bomber, Duke, G-Man and Krome

The meeting was convened at the appointed time and the appointed place.  Present: Bomber, Grim, Duke, Rip City, G-Man and Krome.  Absent: Big Easy, Zeus and Smooth.

We met at the Clubhouse, for a bit, and discussed the Spring Ride to Challis.  Members were reminded the ride has been moved to the second week of June to avoid continuing conflicts with the previous scheduling.  The following was posted on Facebook on April 24th:

Challis Hot Springs

April 24 at 12:18pm · 

Our Challis Hot Springs family would like to thank Mike, Shana and their boys for their hard work and dedication. They have moved on from theChallis Hot Springs to enjoy time with their boys and a new beginning on their 50 acres in the Challis area. They leave some very big shoes to fill.

The Challis Hot Springs, Inc. Campground and B&B are now managed by the wife and husband team of Chris & Bill Freelove. Chris recently retired from UPS and Bill has since come out of retirement from Intermountain Gas Company to assume the duties as the Pool Boy. They and their 3 dogs are now resident managers of the facility. They look forward to providing the same family-friendly environment that all past guests have enjoyed.

So welcome Chris and Bill!

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I have been in contact with the ownership and have been advised dinner arrangements should be like years past where we have dinner on site.  I will update you as I get details.

After a short discussion, we walked over the the Sockeye Grill and found our way to "our table".  The conversation, food and camaraderie were all delightful and we all were thankful no one was hurt during the fight over the check.  Duke and Krome were unscathed but the waiter may need counseling.

Rip City was nodding off, almost falling from his chair, after a hard day in the mines so the meeting was concluded with a challenge coin check.

OMC Mandatory Meeting May 5 at 6:30 P.M. at the Clubhouse

The OMC Mandatory meeting will start at 6:30 p.m. this coming Thursday May 5.  We will meet at the Clubhouse on Fairview and then maybe possibly or not go eat Mexican food somewhere as it is Cinco de Mayo.  See link:

http://www.popsugar.com/latina/Real-Meaning-Behind-Cinco-de-Mayo-40579049

See you there.

OMC 2016 March Social Report or A Tale of Three Rides

Grim, Bomber, Smooth, Krome and Rip City

We met for the March Social at the appointed place and time.  Present: G-Man, Grim, Bomber, Smooth, Krome and Rip City.  Absent: Big Easy, Duke and Zeus.

Greetings and salutations were exchanged while we looked over the north fence admiring Bomber's new 1950 GMC dump truck.  Very cool.  I can't wait to drive it and dump something.

Shortly thereafter, we climbed on our bikes and finally headed out after a few false starts.  A discussion was first held about dining places and G-Man had to go back in the Clubhouse several times for forgotten items.  He still forgot a jacket.  We decided to head to Rudy's Pub at Ten Mile and McMillan.  G-Man led the way as the Vice President is in charge of Club socials.

The roiling mass of chrome, metal and testosterone rolled out of the Clubhouse driveway impressively roaring west towards Eagle Road.  As we crossed Records and approached the vehicles backed up for the light at Eagle Road, the impressive roaring mass of chrome and manhood turned suddenly into a gaggle of geese as Scarecrow decided, at the last moment, to turn right onto Eagle rather than proceeding west on Fairview.  The gaggle of geese then turned into a passle of crustaceans as they crabbed sideways from the far left lane to the far right turn lane.  Smooth and I rolled over to the aforementioned lane to block so Scarecrow, et al, could get safely into the target lane.  Yes, we might have been chuckling a little at the sight.  Phew.  Turns out Scarecrow had spied a dust cloud ahead west on Fairview and didn't want the perfect hue of his painted steed sullied.

We then headed north on Eagle and turned left on Ustick Road.  After about three years of traveling through the traffic on Ustick Road, we made it to Rudy's and eventually found parking places.  We made our way inside and received permission from an employee to join two table for six people.  We found our seats but I quickly found out I had forgotten to leave a chair in place for Rip City's new $900 wonder helmet.  As soon as the golden helmet was made safe, we placed our orders.

Rip City's Golden Helmet of Mambrino

I have since done some research and found out that Rip "Don Quixote" City has come into possession of the fabled golden helmet of Mambrino.  Legend has it the golden helmet makes it's wearer invincible and has been sought after for ages.  More information can be found at these links:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eQ8iZu-BAVM

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mambrino

As per usual, it takes a little longer for orders to be served for larger parties.  Restaurants try to bring everyone's food out at the same time.  Everyone started chowing down as all were hungry.  However, Rip City found his food was less than perfect in temperature and scanned the room like a cheetah looking for a wounded gazelle.  He found his target, a young female server, and sent his meal back.  The rest of the club continued to munch on our meals contentedly.  The manager came out and apologized to Rip City.  Rip City graciously thanked him for his concern.  Everyone finished up their meals and our dishes were cleared as we sat chatting.

After a bit, Rip City then asked us where we were going to ice cream as he chewed on a piece of his Rib Eye steak.  We laughed as we were not sure there would be time before he finished his belated meal.  We did manage to leave before the restaurant closed and headed out.

The Prez led the Club over to Joplin to take the Massacre Loop to Middleton for ice cream.  We rode west on Joplin until it turned into Lincoln and then continued west.  We stopped briefly at Massacre Park as some members had not been to the nice little park and I waxed poetic about why our route was so named.  We then rode west into the north side of Caldwell, Smooth and Scarecrow stopped for gas at the Maverick, rode past the old ice cream factory and over the one lane bridge to take the little road, below Old Highway 30, along the river.  We made our way over to Highway 44 and turned back east into Middleton.

Jim's Burger Den was packed with Little League Sports folk and we barely found parking places and Rip City ended up parking on the sidewalk right in front of the drive-in restaurant.  We entered the restaurant and the line to order extended out the door.  Unfortunately, there are not a lot of choices for ice cream in Middleton.  Smooth, Rip City and I found ourselves right behind a former neighbor of Carl and Sue Davis and she said she was used to the roar of motorcycles.  In fact, she said her Dad owns a StratoLiner and a Spyder.  I bit my tongue from saying something rude like, "I thought you said your Dad owned motorcycles".  Rip City felt right at home being a former Rice Disciple.

We finally were able to get all our treats pried from Jim's employees and held court outside in front of the drive-in restaurants entrance.  Scarecrow was a little chilly in his short sleeves and wished he had a jacket.  I asked him if his saddle bags were on his RK just for show or if a jacket would fit.  He had a snappy retort (not really) but I forget.    We then began a lively conversation about how possessive Rip City was about his new helmet and noticed he kept it close although his Indian was only about six feet away.  I started a collection to have the lady at Riderz Ragz make a really nice "man bag", with a shoulder strap, to allow Rip City to keep the Mambrino helmet close at hand to enhance his invincibility at all times.  Rip was amenable as long as the bag was adorned with spikes and studs to enhance the manliness of the helmet purse.

Rip City then blurted out that we would all be sorry when we were involved in a "gang-wreck" and he would be the only one that survived as he was wearing the golden helm upon his noggin.  This innocent spontaneous utterance was good for at least 20-30 minutes of remarks and jokes about "gang-wreck" stories and possibilities (and like occurrences).  One never knows when a "gang-wreck" might break out.  I have never seen every Club member laugh that hard at the same time before.  My ribs still hurt from laughing so hard and I remain vigilant with my situational awareness as a "gang-wreck" might erupt at any time.

Grudgingly we said our goodbyes and headed our different directions.  Everyone but Rip City headed east down Highway 44 with each member turning off as we passed the way to their respective homes.  I rode with Bomber down to Glenwood before turning south towards Chinden.  As I turned west on Chinden from Glenwood, I could not make myself go home as it was so nice a night to ride.  I continued west and repeated the Massacre Loop we had ridden earlier in the evening.  I remained vigilant for possible "gang-wrecks".  After that, I gassed the Glide and finally went home.

What a great bunch of guys in this OMC.  Rip City......I love you, man.