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Gold Wing Road Riders Association
FRIENDS FOR FUN, SAFETY, AND KNOWLEDGE
Texas District South Central Region H
Chapter N2
Humble, Texas
Monthly Gatherings - 4th Saturday, 6:00 p.m.
American Legion Hall
307 Charles Street, Humble TX 77338
The N2 Buzz
December 2015
Chapter N2 - Humble, TX 2015 Page 2
INSIDE THIS ISSUE...
Monthly Meeting/Ride Location Map
Chapter N2 Staff
Birthdays and Anniversaries
Texas District Staff
Dates to Remember
Region H Staff
News from the Chapter Directors
News from the Assistant Chapter Directors
News from the Chapter Educator
Last Chance for Dirty Bingo
MEC Spotlight
The Five Basic Motorcycle Waves
Monthly Social Dinner
Flu Season...
Chapter N2 Video
The Love of Riding
Future Camping Adventures and Preparations
Events Coordinator - Merry Christmas
Announcing…
Paraprosdokians
It felt like an early Christmas morning gift...
Wind Chill
Words of Wisdom
Dear Santa...
November Participation Report
This & That
Calendars
2016 Texas District Rally
Members Business Cards
2015 Page 3
Chapter Directors
Randy & Sharon Rainwater
281-360-4577 / 281-794-1909 [email protected] /
Asst. Chapter Dir.
George & Linda Stich
281-812-0997 / 832-264-2005 [email protected] /
Chapter Educator/MAD Coord.
Kenny Shults
281-642-4619
Treasurer
Robin Smith
832-434-2991
Newsletter Editor
Sharon Rainwater
281-360-4577
Chapter N2 Email Address
Ways N Means
Randy Rainwater
281-360-4577
Web Master
Brad Rodger
281-687-3267
Website
www.gwrra-n2-humbletx.com
Camping Coordinators
Rex & Ann Nix
713-231-4604
Chapter N2 Staff - 2015 (www.gwrra-n2-humbletx.com)
MEC
Steve & Linda Seligman
713-305-0225 / 281-844-6207 [email protected]
Events Coordinator
Billie Fleming
832-630-2293
Scrapbook Coordinator
Karen Frazier
281-615-1365
January 2016
Birthdays
Paul Rich 1/13
Sharon Rainwater 1/16
Joel Benoit 1/17
Wedding Anniversaries
Jim & Beth Hartley 1/01
Jim & Lynn Flournoy 1/24
Steve & Billie Fleming 1/30
GWRRA Anniversaries
David & Cathy Southwell 2014
Chapter N2 - Humble, TX
December 2015
Birthdays
Diane Deloach 12/6
Beth Hartley 12/7
Harold Deloach 12/9
Shirley Rodger 12/9
George Stich 12/20
Linda Seligman 12/27
Robin Smith 12/31
Wedding Anniversaries
Harold & Diane Deloach 12/21
Paul & Mari Rich 12/26
Gary & Marie Rabalais 12/31
GWRRA Anniversaries
Robin Smith 12/2011
2015 Page 4
Texas District Staff - (Texas District Website - www.gwrra-tx.org)
District Directors
Mike & Robin Thacker
281-686-8892
Assistant District Directors
Tom & Dawn Sprague
858-755-6071
TxADD2@gwrra-tx-org
Couple of the Year 2015/2016
Randy & Kathy Reese
512-251-2017
District Rider Educators
Randy & Kathy Reese
512-744-3635
Membership Enhancement Coord.
Steve & Donna VanGlider
210-391-9495
Newsletter Editor
Tom Sprague
858-755-6071
District Leadership Trainers
Cliff & Gillian Allen
214-886-5798
District Treasurer
Diane Shults
713-562-3994
Webmaster
Tom Sprague
858-755-6071
Entertainment Coordinator
Kenny Shults
281-642-4619
DATES TO REMEMBER...
2015
12/05/2015 Chapter N2’s No Meal Ride
12/06/2015 Chapter N2’s Breakfast
12/12/2015 Chapter N2’s Christmas Party
12/16/2015 Chapter N2’s Social Dinner
12/19/2015 Lunch @ Taste of Texas
2016
01/09/2016 Texas Mid-Winter Roundup, Frank Mayborn Convention Center, Temple, TX
03/17-19/2016 Region H Rally, Marshall Convention Center, Marshall, TX
03/30-04/02/16 Louisiana District Rally, Lafayette, LA
05/19-21/2016 Texas District Rally, Frank Mayborn Convention Center, Temple, TX
05/26-28/2016 Arkansas District Rally, Harrison, AR
08/31/-09/3/16 Wing Ding 2016 - Billings, MT
Vendor Coordinator
Kenny Shults
281-642-4619
Chapter of the Year Coord.
Gillian Allen
214-886-5721
Couple of the Year Coord.
Steve & Donna VanGilder
210-391-9495
Chapter N2 - Humble, TX
2015 Page 5
Region H Staff
Region Director Jim & Reba Berry 90 Quail Ridge Dr. Monroe, LA 71203 Jim 318-348-1275 Reba 972-854-2752 [email protected]
Assistant Region Director Steve & Billie Fleming 29002 Atherstone Street Spring, TX 77386 Steve 832-630-2038 Billie 832-630-2293 [email protected]
Region Educator Karen & Ricky Frazier 24273 E. Terrace Porter TX 77365 Karen 281-615-1365 Ricky 281-615-4386 [email protected]
Region Motorist Awareness Mike & Becky Stevenson 28 Dunleith Dr. Destrehan, LA 70047 Mike 504-782-1475 Becky 504-782-1474 [email protected]
Region Trainer Jack Wagner 2700 Dupont Edmond, OK 73034 405-514-1234 [email protected]
Region Medic First Aid Ricky & Karen Frazier 24273 E. Terrace Porter TX 77365 Ricky 281-615-4386 Karen 281-615-1365 [email protected]
Region Couple of the Year Steve & Carolyn Cotton 605 W. 36
th St.
Sand Springs, OK 74063 Steve 918-798-8560 Carolyn 918-798-8561 [email protected]
Chapter N2 - Humble, TX
Region MEC Region COY Coordinator Steve & Billie Fleming 29002 Atherstone Street Spring, TX 77386 Steve 832-630-2038 Billie 832-630-2293 [email protected]
Region Chapter of the Year Ann Nahl 517 Golden Oaks Dr. Norman, OK 73072 405-630-8010 [email protected]
Region Patches Billie Fleming 29002 Atherstone Street Spring, TX 77386 832-630-2293 [email protected]
Region Treasurer Ed Nahl 517 Golden Oaks Dr. Norman, OK 73072 405-642-2698 [email protected]
Region Newsletter Editor Jim Berry 90 Quail Ridge Dr. Monroe, LA 71203 318-348-1275 [email protected]
Region Webmaster Sam Belinoski 15 St. Thomas Ct. Houston, TX 77070 281-469-5755 [email protected]
Vendor Coordinator Ruby Seale 1606 CR 4510 Pittsburg, TX 75686 903-767-1022 [email protected]
NEWS FROM THE CHAPTER DIRECTORS
Randy & Sharon Rainwater
Chapter N2 - Humble, TX
2015 Page 6 Chapter N2 - Humble, TX
November 2015 is almost over and Christmas is creeping up on
all of us. We had breakfast at Skeeter’s, our annual Fruitcake
Run (in cars this year), Surprise Ride to Ransom’s, Social Din-
ner at Zachery’s Cajun Café, Impromptu Ride to Farmhouse on
the Lake in Onalaska, TX, our Monthly Gathering and baked
potato potluck, and our modified After-Thanksgiving Campout
at the American Legion Hall.
Weather has played a role in a lot of our recent events, but it
hasn’t dampened the spirit of TX-N2 members. You have con-
tinued to show your enthusiasm and willingness to try doing
things, just a little different than we usually do. The N2 Staff
thanks you for attending as many events as possible in 2015.
We are looking forward to 2016 and the many opportunities to have fun with friends and family. The N2 Staff
would like to wish you and your family an early MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY NEW YEAR.
Your Staff is also hard at work planning the annual Christmas Party and it’s another special event that you
don’t want to miss. The Chapter will be providing the meat and members will bring their favorite appetizer,
side dish, or dessert. We normally have enough food to feed 2 or 3 times the number of people that attend.
We will have a gender specific gift exchange with a dollar limit of $20 to $25 and Lynn Flournoy will oversee
the Dirty Bingo game with gifts.
Before we know it 2015 will be in the history books and we’ll be facing 2016. If you have a suggestion for a
destination or a ride just let one of the staff know about it and we’ll see what we can do to work it into our
schedule. If not this year, then hopefully next year.
Remember “Bee Seen in 2015.”
2015 Page 7 Chapter N2 - Humble, TX
NEWS FROM THE ASSISTANT CHAPTER DIRECTORS George & Linda Stich
Chapter N2 - Humble, TX
THE NUTCRACKER MARKET By Linda Stich
Ladies…you missed a good time at the Nutcracker Market on Nov 13th. We got there really early, 9 a.m., and left close to 4 p.m., tired, but satis-fied with our fun filled day. We had Sharon Rainwater, Linda Seligman, Robin Smith, Maureen Steel, and myself attending. Due to the size of the crowd we assumed it would be hard to stay together as a group so Maureen (my friend) and I wandered off on our own and we agreed to meet up for lunch. One of our first stops was for gourmet caramel apples, ummmm good. This is an annual purchase for us. We acquired a few items but it was hard to check out eve-ry booth due to the crowds. We met for lunch and en-joyed sitting down to a delicious bowl of nachos complete with meat, peppers, cheese, sour cream, pico de gallo, beans, and chips. It was a joy just to sit for a while. We resumed our shopping as we still had many vendors left to explore their goods. Cherry Republic is another fine ven-dor and we bought numerous jellies, jams and chocolate covered cherries. Naturally, there were many vendors allowing the crowd to taste their products. There were groups of friends that dressed alike in T-shirts, head gear, etc. and it was amusing to see their costumes. Hate to admit it, but my back and knees gave out first and I sat for a while content to let everyone else continue their shop-ping pleasure. It was sheer relief to obtain a tram almost immediately to transport us to our awaiting carriage. Fri-day afternoon traffic was horrendous as usual, but Linda Seligman guided us through downtown so we could catch the HOV lane home. I delivered everyone safely to the Rainwaters abode although Robin Smith had a few anx-ious moments with my notorious driving. All arrived intact and we all agreed we wanted to do this again in
November 2016 on a Sunday afternoon to catch the sales. Looking forward to this again next year and making this a tradition!!!
MYSTERY RIDE By George & Linda Stich
On Saturday, Nov 14h, Randy scheduled a mystery ride. The weather was wonderful and we had a very pleasant ride even though we did not know our destination. It just felt good to ride with our friends. We had a break in New Waverly and everyone saddled up and part of the group left, however, our trike decided not to crank. Eventually, everyone returned to brain storm as to why it wouldn’t crank. Several guys pushed it to pop the clutch and thankfully it started. Randy shortened the ride and we ended up eating lunch at Ransom’s in Montgomery. We had to push it off again to start. We headed home and I had to make a quick stop on FM 1314 and forgot where the lever was to tell Randy I was stopping plus keeping in mind I couldn’t kill the engine. Gary Rabalais radioed him to let him know of the impromptu stop. We then took Mari home and Gary followed us to our house to make sure we got there safely. I pulled the trike into the garage and there it sits until we get the time to deliver it for re-pair. Thanks to Randy for his leadership and everyone else for their patience during my breakdown (uuhh the bike’s breakdown?). We appreciate everyone’s assis-tance, suggestions, head scratching, commiserating and so on. It is so heartwarming to know Chapter N-2 has got your back when in need. That also is true of the GWRRA membership and the number of people willing to offer assistance whenever needed. THANKS TO ALL OF YOU!!!
2015 Page 8
NEWS FROM THE CHAPTER EDUCATOR Kenny Shults
Chapter N2 - Humble, TX
Chapter N2 - Humble, TX
THE ROADS WE RIDE By Kenny Shults
Hello my friends: As Gold Wing Road Rider Association mem-bers, we travel all over the country and in doing so I have learned the roads are all very different. Some states and counties invest a lot of money in maintaining their roads while others let them go bad over time. Those of us who went to Oklahoma’s District rally know this well. Many roads are made of different materials, the quality of their surfaces varies considerably, and they might be pristine and immaculate in one place only to
become pot-holed war zones a few miles farther along. Some are well lit open roads, while others are dark and desolate. Asphalt roads might be great in moderate weather but become dangerous in high heat or extreme cold. Others are clean and clear then become “Tar snake” and grave covered with overgrown weeds on either side. The Interstates are consistent in quality and design. The various state and county roads are not. The moral of the story is: As you cross a county line be sure to be ready for changes in road surface and quality. Slow down and take your time to test the new road. Maybe stay on the interstate until you have time to explore back roads at a safe pace. We know the roads we travel often and sometimes assume other roads ride the same. This is often not true, so be prepared.
Last Chance for Dirty Bingo By Lynn Flournoy
We’re in the home stretch….last chance to clear out those treasures to be shared at our Dirty Bingo game at the Chapter Christmas Party in December. Remem-ber what a great warm up Dirty Bingo is for the main feature – gift swap and/or theft. Remember to “Keep it Simple Rule”, when wrapping: use gift wrap of any kind (Christmas, birthday, Easter, etc.); use the Sunday funnies or any other part of the newspaper. Please DO NOT use ribbon or bows or other added decora-tion. Be sure to tape securely as there will be some activity that could cause a less secure wrap to come lose. Box them if they are fragile or particularly small. It can get rough. One can use gift bags or even paper lunch bags but staple/tape them securely closed. I challenge everyone to participate by bringing a few goodies. Remember one man’s trash is another man’s treasure.
2015 Page 9
MEC SPOTLIGHT Steve & Linda Seligman, (Membership Enhancement Coordinators)
Master Tour Riders 6748 & 6747 Chapter N2 - Humble, TX
Chapter N2 - Humble, TX
I was thinking about all of the fun we have had in 2015.
We have had 10 meetings, 8 chapter breakfasts, 11
monthly chapter dinners, 2 Bee Invasions, more than 16
rides, 2 camping trips, 5 rallies, and a lot more FUN.
As I was looking at all of the events from the year – I
remembered so many more that were placed on the cal-
endar and either cancelled or changed. For example,
our April chapter gathering had to be cancelled at the
last minute because of the torrential rain storm that hit
Houston. Randy sent out an email that the meeting had
been cancelled but, of course, a few of us did not read
their emails. So, we showed up for the meeting. But in true Goldwing fashion we adapted to the situation –
we went to dinner! We had some rides scheduled during the summer months but due to the heat we adapted –
we either cancelled or went in cars. Our trip to Mid-winter roundup in January had to be adapted because of
the rainy, cold and freezing weather – we changed from bikes to cars. Our spring camping trip to Arkansas
had to be postponed because again – we were hit with days and days of rain. What did we do? We adapted.
We postponed the camping trip and went to Fredericksburg for the weekend. This year we also had to adapt
our annual Fruitcake Ride by going in cars – we still had a blast. Our Chapter Directors even had to do their
own adapting this year – as they both had arms in casts.
Do you get the drift here? According to Dictionary.com, the definition of adapt is to
To make suitable to requirements or conditions, adjust or modify fittingly
To adjust oneself to different conditions, environment, etc.
Even though our chapter had many events on our calendar, we could not always follow through as planned, but
we were able to adapt so we could have a year full of FUN. Last year when the Nixs and we went on our 2-
week vacation up through Glacier National Park, we had to delay our trip by one day due to freezing rain in
the Park (thanks to Randy for letting us know about the weather). I remember talking to Randy Rainwater
about the delay and he made the comment that if you do not have to change or modify then the trip may not be
so memorable. Randy was right. The one thing we all talk about that stood out in that trip is the night we
spent in a hotel in Butte, Montana – warm, doing laundry, and enjoying each other’s company. So, in conclu-
sion, do not get disappointed or upset if we have to ADAPT an event – just remember we have FUN no matter
where we are as long as we are together and enjoying good friends.
It is time to put on your thinking caps and come up with some new ways to have FUN in 2016.
See you in 2016 for more FUN!!!
MECs Rock
2015 Page 10 Chapter N2 - Humble, TX
1. Left-Handed Low - Sometimes this wave is called the Harley or cruiser wave. These are typically used by
cruiser-style or custom-chopped motorcycle riders. The arm is fully extended and aimed down towards the
street in a 45 or lesser degree angle, with one, two, three, or five fingers extended. The direction of the
palm is also critical to the look and feel of this wave. The palm must either face the other rider or face the
road. A classic variation of the finger positioning is to throw a peace sign (duce) or a thumbs up. A low
wave with an angle greater than 45 degrees and/or with the palm facing up or back and/or with the use of
four fingers is telling the biker community at large that you are either new or inept. If you have a cruiser
and can’t get this wave to work for you, then consider the Left-Handed Straight Out or trading in your
bike.
2. Left-Handed Straight Out - This is an all-around general wave. They're typically used by crotch rockets,
cruisers, customs, and bagger riders. The arm can be either fully or partially extended with no more than a
10 degree angle higher or lower than the shoulder. The palm must be facing the oncoming rider in either a
horizontal or vertical position and a full palm must be shown. It is suggested that you present the hand in a
relaxed state, as flattening it will make you look like a dork. The classic variations of the peace sign (duce)
or thumbs up are also acceptable. If practiced, this is one of the easiest waves to master and will work with
all bikes. If for some reason you can’t get this wave to work, you will probably have serious problems with
the kickstand dynamic and should immediately sell your motorcycle before you cause yourself anymore
embarrassment.
3. Left-Handed High - This is a variation of the typical wave seen made by kings and kids alike. It's used
mostly by upright riders of crotch rockets and baggers. The elbow is kept even or slightly lower than shoul-
der height. The elbow should be bent at about a 75 – 85 degree angle with a slight forward angling of the
forearm. The palm must be facing the oncoming rider and the hand can either remain still, though the use
of a side to side motion is acceptable. This wave has been proven very useful when you have a loose
watchband. It is suggested you present the hand in a relaxed state, as, once again, flattening it will make
you appear to be a dork. The classic variations of the peace sign (duce) or thumbs up are frowned upon
when using this type of wave. It’s a bit too over-the-top. Important: Should you be riding a crotch rocket, it
is extremely important to maintain the crotch rocket image by using this wave only if the left hand is com-
ing from the left hip or thigh. This should never, ever be used when coming from the handlebars. Warning
of possible injury: Do not use this type of wave on a cruiser. You will appear aloof, snobbish, and everyone
will hate you. If you have a medical condition or feel you must use this type of wave, get a bagger or ride a
crotch rocket only in the upright position and don’t be a dick about it. There are rules.
4. Right-Handed - This is also known as the "Ha, ha. I have cruise control" wave. It is occasionally used by
bagger riders but more typically by Ultra Classic and Goldwing riders. They’re riding on rolling living
room sofas. These big, comfy, and not really cool bikes are great for touring. This lack of coolness can
cause a temporary condition known as “dickishness,” which can be instantly healed by passing a cruiser
The Five Basic Motorcycle Waves Submitted by Linda Seligman
2015 Page 11 Chapter N2 - Humble, TX
What should I do to protect myself from flu this season?
CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine for everyone 6 months of age and older as the first and most important step in protecting against this serious disease. People should begin getting vac-cinated soon after flu vaccine becomes available, if possible by October, to ensure that as many people as possible are protected before flu season begins. However, as long as flu viruses are circulating in the community, it’s not too late to get vaccinated.
In addition to getting a seasonal flu vaccine if you have not already gotten vaccinated, you can take everyday preventive actions like staying away from sick people and washing your hands to reduce the spread of germs. If you are sick with flu, stay home from work to prevent spreading flu to others.
FLU SEASON...
To view the video of our “January 2015 gathering and Soup Night” go to...www.youtube.com
and type in Soup Night TX N2 January 24, 2015. This video was submitted to National and
Chapter N2 was selected the “Most Fun Chapter” for 2015. Our chapter was awarded a $100 gift certificate
to Dairy Queen, which we will be sharing with the chapter at a future date. Sounds like a “great” reason to
ride again!!! A special thanks goes to Steve Fleming for filming and submitting the video!
CHAPTER N2 MONTHLY
WEDNESDAY NIGHT SOCIAL DINNER
6:30 p.m.
DEC Marty & Donna Uphoff
Wed., December 16 - (Tin Roof BBQ - 18918 Town Center Blvd., Humble 77346 - 281-852-8577)
Alternates: Jim & Lynn Flournoy, and Ricky & Karen Frazier
and giving the right hand wave. The general message being sent is "You might be on a cool bike but damn
it, I’m comfy.” If the rider of the touring bike is a smoker, he will typically light up a cigarette or a cigar,
just to drive the point home.
5. Left-Handed Forward - This wave is used solely by crotch rocket riders because, let’s face it, what the
hell else can they do in that position? A flashed wave, it is almost imperceptible due to the speed of the
wave and the bike. To execute this wave one must slightly raise the left hand from the grip, no more than
three or four inches, show the palm, and return to the grip. This entire motion must be fluid and executed
in under three seconds. You must learn all the intricacies of this wave before you take your first ride. If
you don’t, they will know you’re a newbie and you’ll instantly become pink-slip bait. The only way to
avoid this lame wave stigma is by doing something crazy like riding a wheelie while naked. If you don’t
fall off, that’s a big plus.
(The Five Basic Motorcycle Waves, cont.)
2015 Page 12
NEWS FROM THE CAMPING COORDINATORS Rex & Ann Nix
Chapter N2 - Humble, TX
Chapter N2 - Humble, TX
The end of 2015 is right around the corner. We have managed a couple of camping trips this year, either as a group or as individuals. Our after Thanksgiving Campout was canceled due to potential bad weather and it actually got miserable up there so it was a good thing it was postponed. Everyone is now getting busy with preparing for Christmas, com-pany gatherings, family gatherings, motorcycle fami-ly gatherings, maybe a trip to see the Nutcracker or a Christmas Concert. Then afterward will be New Year with maybe a group hanging out till the mid-night hour celebrating the New Year. Then we will settle in and begin the process of getting next year lined up with all the things we want to do.
Included in the next year’s planning should be a few day trips, hopefully a few overnighters, possi-ble a few 3 or 4 day trips, and a couple of week long trips. Of this, we hope to include a bit of camping in a great location we can all appreciate and enjoy. I was thinking of the first time Ann and I traveled to the hill country with the group. We stayed at the Goat Creek KOA with four other couples from the group and traveled the 3 sisters the first time follow-ing Gary Rabalais. We had a blast on that trip! I think we need to remember the old trips we have tak-en and consider doing many of them again. We have new folks in our groups who probably haven’t been there and they may want to go.
Next year, there has been talk of going to Ar-kansas and finding some new camp grounds and rid-ing roads. I have been looking at possible trips in the state of Texas we can take short trips to, possibly get-ting an overnight campout in. Don’t forget we will be looking at going to Wing Ding in Montana, and I for one want to take the camper and stay at some of the cool places we have seen over the years. There is nothing like waking up and walking outside the camper and seeing the sun come up lighting the can-yon or mountain walls up like a sea of fire.
But before all of this can be done, let’s first go back to basics of trailering. What are we looking for here? Wheels, frame, trailer lights, chains, bear-ings, spare, hitch on the bike, wiring on the bike, can-opy, zippers, and so much more. Ever heard of the GWRRA approved Trailering Course?
There is nothing worse than sitting on the side of the highway with a busted trailer. So, before the trips, let’s inspect the coupler on that trailer and make sure it fits on the ball correctly. Most have a nut on the bottom that can be adjusted to tighten or loosen the coupler on the ball. Is the ball tight on the sting-er? Is the hitch mounted firmly on the bike frame and the bolts are tight, no visible cracks? Is the wir-ing from the bike frayed or need to be taped up to keep shorts from happening? Is the wire on the trail-er in good shape? Do all the lights work properly? How are the wheels? Are they in good shape, no cracks, aired up correctly? How about the spare? Do you have a wrench to take the lug nuts off or a small piece of wood to put under the axle to hold the trailer up while you change a flat? How about those chains going from the bike to the trailer? Are they the cor-rect length and strong enough to keep that trailer hooked up to your bike if it comes loose? Remem-ber, that trailer is your responsibility, those chains are your last line of safety to keep the trailer from com-ing off and cruising through a yard full of kids, defi-nitely not what you want to happen. When was the last time the bearings were cleaned and fresh grease put in?
How about the canopies? Put them up and check the zippers. If they are sticky, put a little soft candle wax or Vaseline on them so they work smoothly. Do all the poles still work and are they all there?
Is the gear okay and do the old flashlights still have those corroding batteries in them?
All this goes for those who pull cargo trailers also. Check your gear.
This all sounds like a heck of a lot to do for a simple camping trip. Remember it doesn’t all have to be done every day. Once a year do a throughout in-spection, fix what needs fixing and go have fun. TCLOCK is not only for bikes, trailers count too.
Let’s start hearing where all of you want to go. Let’s start planning how to get it done and let’s go have fun.
Happy camping from Ann and her driver.
FUTURE CAMPING ADVENTURES AND PREPARATIONS
2015 Page 13 Chapter N2 - Humble, TX
Billie Fleming
Special Events Coordinator
M erry Christmas
Christmas is a religious holiday that celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ and it is observed on December 25th.
The United States has celebrated this as a federal holiday since 1870. People around the world have been cele-
brating with traditions and practices that are both religious and secular in nature. Popular customs include ex-
changing gifts, decorating the Christmas tree, sharing meals with family and friends and waiting for Santa to
arrive.
The first celebration was in 1539 near Tallahassee, Florida. The explorer Herman DeSoto and members of his
expedition made their winter camp in this area and had the first celebration. This was a religious celebration
and there was no tree or gifts. Through the years, Christmas has evolved into the celebrations we have today.
The Christmas tree originated in Western Germany and dates back to the 16th century. The tree was called the
Paradise Tree and was used to celebrate the Feast of Adam and Eve on December 24th . German immigrants
brought this custom to America around 1700.
We have Christmas trees in all shapes, sizes, and colors. We load them with all kinds of ornaments and lights
and gaze upon them with delight.
Ho Ho Ho...here’s wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas!
New GWRRA University Website
Hi all - its finally launching! The new GWRRA University website is up and running. It’s not the final prod-uct yet, but it’s a great start. Please share this important news with all members. The address is www.gwrradot.com (Jack Wagner, GWRRA Deputy Director ([email protected])).
Mike & Robin Thacker, TX District Directors
2015 Page 14 Chapter N2 - Humble, TX
First time I heard about paraprosdokians, I liked them. Paraprosdokians are figures of speech in which the lat-ter part of a sentence or phrase is surprising or unexpected and is frequently humorous. (Winston Churchill loved them). 1. Where there’s a will, I want to be in it. 2. The last thing I want to do is hurt you...But it’s still on my list. 3. Since light travels faster than sound, some people appear bright until you hear them speak. 4. If I agreed with you, we’d both be wrong. 5. We never really grow up -- we only learn how to act in public. 6. War does not determine who is right, only who is left. 7. Knowledge is knowing a tomato is a fruit. Wisdom is not putting it in a fruit salad. 8. To steal ideas from one person is plagiarism. To steal from many is research. 9. I didn’t say it was your fault, I said I was blaming you. 10. In filling out an application, where it says, “In case of emergency, notify…“I answered “a doctor.” 11. Women will never be equal to men until they can walk down the street with a bald head and a beer gut, and still think they are sexy. 12. You do not need a parachute to skydive. You only need a parachute to skydive twice. 13. I used to be indecisive, but now I’m not so sure. 14. To be sure of hitting the target, shoot first and call whatever you hit the target. 15. Going to church doesn’t make you a Christian, any more than standing in a garage makes you a car. 16. You’re never too old to learn something stupid. 17. I’m supposed to respect my elders, but it’s getting harder and harder for me to find one now. 18. Sadly this is true!!! Spread the Laughter, Share the Cheer, Let’s be Happy, while we’re here. 19. “The longer you hang in there, the greater the chance that something will happen in your favor. No matter how hard it seems, the longer you persist, the more likely your success.”
— Jack Canfield
PARAPROSDOKIANS Submitted by Randy Rainwater
2015 Page 15 Chapter N2 - Humble, TX
By Carolyn Tice
It felt like an early Christmas morning gift…It felt like an early Christmas morning gift…
When I rolled out of bed around 5:00 a.m., I did my usual… turned
on the computers, turned on the cell phones, and turned on the tab-
lets. Hmmm…what’s that I hear? A “ding, ding” from my cell
phone…looks like I have a message. YESSSS!!! From Randy
Rainwater…it’s an impromptu ride. We will be leaving at 9:00
a.m…yee-haw!!! Got to get ready – we’re going to Onalaska…the
long way! We were so excited!
We left home promptly at 7:30 a.m., because we didn’t know what
kind of traffic we would encounter on I-10, Beltway 8, or 59. We
were in luck…there was no traffic, so we arrived at the jump-off in
plenty of time. We filled up both trikes, took a quick potty break,
and soon others started arriving. To take part in this wonderful, last-minute impromptu ride, was Steve Seligman, Luis
Soliz, Jim Flournoy, Randy and Sharon Rainwater, and Bubba and Carolyn Tice. Altogether, we had seven participants
and six bikes.
Everyone was ready to ride with full tummies and full tanks and after a short rider’s meeting, we were ready to rock ‘n’
roll. And…rock ‘n’ roll we did! Don’t remember the road numbers, but they were good roads with some twisties/curves
thrown in. Our route included a ride through Coldspring and then Trinity around Lake Livingston. It was a very leisure-
ly ride…none of us were in a hurry to get anywhere and do anything other than enjoy this beautiful day on our awesome
machines.
We took one potty break and spent a few minutes discussing the planting of citrus trees. Bubba and I have had no luck
with our tree (it died) and due to the soil content in our area, we found out that we probably shouldn’t try another one.
After the short rest, we were on our way again.
We arrived at our destination – Farmhouse on the Lake – around 11:30 a.m. The food is “deeeeelicious” and I wound up
ordering the same thing I had ordered the last time we were there. None of us opted for dessert, but we did get in a good
bit of discussion about Wing Ding 38. Everyone seems very excited that it will be in Billings, MT, again. This will be
Bubba and I’s first WD at Billings, so it’s all very new to us. We gathered a lot of information…thank you to everyone
for sharing your info with us.
After settling up with the waitress, we set out for the last leg of our trip which was the long way home. On the way we
stopped and “eye shopped” at Holiday World on 45. Wow…so many accessories and awesome motor homes and travel
trailers...everything you could possibly imagine for traveling…even dishes and special toilet paper. Another first for
Bubba and I…we didn’t know about these must have “accessories” for camping.
After leaving Holiday World, we made one last stop for filling up and saying goodbye. Jim left the group and continued
on his way home. Bubba and I stayed with the group until we came to 105, which we took home through Cleveland,
Kenefick, Dayton, then on into Baytown.
Altogether, Bubba and I rode about 300 miles. Randy was the lead and Steve was the drag. Many thanks to both for
getting us there and back safe and sound. You guys R O C K!!! And, YESSSS…we’re definitely ready for another im-
promptu ride!
2015 Page 16 Chapter N2 - Humble, TX
Happy Holidays everyone. Even though most of us have parked our motorcycles for the winter, we are all still going outside for mundane tasks and special events. While we need to dress appropriately for the air tempera-ture, whether we are on or off the bikes, we must also be conscious of the wind. Wind chill is the perceived decrease in air temperature felt by the body on exposed skin due to the flow of air. Solid surfaces like our skin lose heat through evaporation and conduction. In the winter, we are mostly concerned with the rate of conduc-tion, which depends on the difference in temperature between our skin and the air around it. Warmth from our skin heats the air around it, forming an insulating boundary layer, which helps to keep us warm. Moving air disrupts this boundary layer (also called an epiclimate) allowing for cooler air to replace the warm air against our skin. The faster the wind speed, the faster our skin cools.
Wind chill increases the rate of heat loss from our bodies, down to ambient temperature. It cannot, however, reduce our body temperature below the ambient temperature, no matter how great the wind velocity. (I find this fact of little comfort if I have left home without the proper gear and the temperature is below freez-ing.) Our body’s normal response is to generate more heat in order to maintain a skin temperature in an ac-ceptable range. This automatic response by our body results in both the perception of lower temperatures and an actual greater heat loss. In other words, the air 'feels' colder than it is because of the chilling effect of the wind on our skin. In extreme conditions this will increase the risk of frostbite. The best defense against wind chill is proper gear. Cover all exposed skin. Garments should be made of wind-proof fabrics like leather or Gore-tex®. Gloves should have long gauntlet cuffs to Boots likewise should be tall to prevent gapping of the pants leg while seated. Pants ideally will have an elastic cuff to tightly grip your boot. Wind chill temperature is defined only for temperatures at or below 50 °F and wind speeds above 3.0 mph.
WIND CHILL Submitted by Donita Nardi
Words of Wisdom…
By George Stich
Happiness is good health and poor memory.
2015 Page 17 Chapter N2 - Humble, TX
(Submitted by Donita Nardi)
Dear Santa, I would like to be able to tell you that I have been good all year and am eagerly expecting your arrival on Christmas Eve, but who would I be kidding! We
both know that isn’t the case. Alas, I remain on the Naughty list, a fate that I have learned to accept over the years. I have made peace with this reality and have come to rationalize that the trinkets left on that one special night are just not worth behaving for all year. Seriously, 364 days of nothing but being good just so one night you can break into my home leaving behind footprints of soot and damaged roof shingles? I have long outgrown toy dolls, cars, and trucks. Please don’t misunderstand…I am not attempting to make a mockery of all the hard work put in by you and the Elves up in the North Pole. You all do very good work and should be commended for staying in business for so long with no monetary involvement what-so-ever. In fact, I would like to recommend a few names of publishers for magazines and newspapers who would love to speak with you about your unor-thodox business practices. The world would love to know how you can feed, house, and clothe all of those delightful little people up at the Pole who work diligently all year, not for a weekly paycheck, but instead only to see the smiles on children’s faces Christmas day. How do you keep up the motivation? Donald Trump would turn those management skills into billions! I dare say a “Survivor” program based at your factory would go down as being one of the most difficult ever produced. You truly are blessed to have such a dedicat-ed workforce.
I know that you are busy with all of the people on your Nice list, so I will not take any more of your time. I
just wanted you to know that although there are quite a few N-2 members who have joined me on the Naugh-
November 2015
RIDE/EVENT PARTICIPATION REPORT
DATE EVENT #OF BIKES #OF PARTICIPANTS
11/01/15 Chapter N2 Breakfast - Skeeter’s 0 15
11/7-8 Fruitcake Ride/Overnighter 0 13
11/14/15 Surprise Ride to Ransom’s 7/1 12
11/18/15 Social Dinner - Zachary’s 0 15
11/19/15 Impromptu Ride to Farmhouse on the Lake 6 7
11/21/15 Chapter Gathering 0 22
11/28/15 Hobo Stew/Game & Movie Night 0 22
2015 Page 18
Please send your articles, pictures, recipes, etc. to Sha-ron Rainwater. Let’s make this newsletter a group effort and the “best” one around!
Chapter N2 - Humble, TX
Ride...No Meal Stop Saturday, December 5
8:00 a.m.
Meeting at the Valero gas station at Northpark and Hwy. 59.
Chapter N2 Breakfast @Humble City Café Sunday, December 6
9:00 a.m.
Chapter Christmas Party Setup @American Legion Hall Saturday, December 12
9:00 a.m.
We are meeting at 9:00 a.m. to decorate for the Chapter Christmas Party. After decorating, we will go to lunch.
Chapter Christmas Party @ American Legion Hall Saturday, December 12
6:00 p.m.
We will have our annual Chapter Christmas Party at the Amer-ican Legion Hall. The chapter will provide the meat; members are asked to bring a dish to share (salads, vegetables, bread, or desserts). We will have a gift exchange (optional) with a $25 gift limit. Men buy for men and women buy for women. (If you do participate in the gift exchange, the value of your gift should be in the $20 - $25 dollar range (nothing less) to be fair.)
Remember we will also have a “Dirty Bingo” gift exchange. For more information, see article on page 8.
Lunch @ Taste of Texas Saturday, December 19
2:00 p.m.
Contact Rex Nix if you plan to attend.
WINTER BEGINS Monday, December 21
CHRISTMAS Friday, December 25
NEW YEAR’S EVE Thursday, December 31
Polar Bear Ride Friday, January 1, 2016
We will be traveling to Jim & Beth Hartleys’ home in La Grange for gumbo. Watch for more details to come!
Chapter Social Dinner Wednesday, December 16
6:30 p.m.
Marty & Donna Uphoff have chosen (Tin Roof BBQ - 18918 Town Center Blvd., Humble 77346 - 281-852-8577) for the December social dinner. Ya’ll come!
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Gold Wing mechanic available.