Southeast STAR-B-Q - June 11-13, Thu-Sat

[Keith Kippley]

Really had a good time, we'll have to do this again sometime.  I started worrying when we crossed I 39 twice. Already spent some time looking for a Booster seat.  Thanks to the whole group for making my first Long Ride a great experience.
Keith

[Alan]

I got home yesterday with a couple showers between Rochester and St. Paul.  This was a great trip and a great group to travel with!  I very much agree with Papa's thoughts about our new long distance riders.     Also glad that my "creative routing" was enjoyed -- believe it or not, I can direct route ... if necessary.   Thanks to Papa for tailgunning the whole trip with G9 comms.  Came in very handy for the wide variety of roads that these foolish people decided to follow me through.   (I couldn't shake 'em even once!)

This was a large STAR event!  I haven't heard the totals raised yet but with the number attending, the ride choices and event organization, I would certainly call it very successful.  Most of the proceeds are going to Honor Flight with a portion also going to STAR Family Foundation.

On Friday some of us went on the Vets ride to the Lexington VA Medical Center.  A nice ride through very scenic country roads to get to our destination.  After being directed to ride the sidewalks into the central commons area of the grounds, we parked our bikes in a long row on the sidewalk.  We went inside to talk with a few patients/residents and then some, who were able, joined us outside for a grilled hot dog lunch.  The ride was led by the host chapter president who had done a ride like this at another event and knew she wanted to include one on their SBQ.  I'm glad she did!

For Saturday, Papa suggested a ride to Perryville Battlefield (wiki) - the location of the major Civil War battle in Kentucky.  Keith and I joined him but once again they lined up behind me  ... so I led the charge to the battlefield.  (sorry, couldn't resist)  Had a nice walking tour and then started a short ride down a gr...   ok, I'm not gonna finish that part -- I'm surprised Papa is still talking to me.     (clears throat)  Its important to note: there were no casualties on the battlefield that day.    Of important historic reference - we stopped at a Dairy Queen on the way back.


After my side trip through Iowa (and a brief stop in Rochester to help Scott upgrade his G9s), I added a couple days and another couple hundred miles (zero miles on Monday - didn't know what to do with myself!)  Had a great time!!

[Pat Calkins "Corn Dog"]

Yes, it was a good time.  We also stopped at "Poopy's" on the way down for breakfast.  That was the best breakfast I have had, and I have had a lot of breakfast meals. 

The View Motel (outside of Galena) was excellent.  Even provided us with free beer (after our riding was done for the day).

Sure it was hot, and the older I get the more tired I get, but it still was a great ride, lead by Alan.  Didn't enjoy the rain storms on the way back on Monday, but other than that, it was great. 

Lots of work to catch up after we got back.  That is the worst thing, having to mow and trim after all those days gone.  The people in Louisville where great.  A very well organized STARBQ.  Always meet a bunch of nice people at these things.  Good food too.  The Harley did very well.  Wish I had my back rest in time for this trip, but oh well.  I have it on the bike now and it works great.  A $200 part that cost me just $50. 

[Papa Chachi]

And let's not forget Hoosier National Forest.  Lots of twisty tree lined two lane (well almost two) roads with enough elevation changes to make one think of Valley Fair. All ending at a beautiful overlook of the Ohio River.

Great stretch of riding before we hit the craziness of Louisville traffic.