MotoPhotoAdventures

1500 Miles in 24 Hours

2011-02-25T01:22:00.000-08:00

Anyone up for completing a 1500 mile ride from NY to Miami in 24 hours? During the first two weeks of May, I will be a rolling adventure of miles. My goal is to complete the IBA http://www.ironbutt.com/about/default.cfm 1500 Mile Ride in 24 Hours. The quest will begin in Western, New York and will end somewhere near Miami, FL. I will need to rest up near Miami to recover from driving 24 hours straight then my only goal is to make it to Key West, Florida. After that, the plan is to have no plan. Not sure why I want to complete 1500 miles in 24 hours but I cannot get it out of my head.

I am looking for suggestions on side trips, adventures and restaurants for my return trip back north. Any ideas are welcome.

This will be the first long trip on my new ride. It should be fun. Here is to the upcoming riding season.

EasyRider Motorcycle Show, LA

2011-01-26T09:54:00.001-08:00

Great Movies that were not so Good

2011-01-06T23:28:00.000-08:00

Living in Western, NY brings a ton of snow and a lack sun through the long months of winter. My Harley is now trapped in the back of my garage without hopes of escape till spring. Fortunately I was able to travel on business to California and found myself in Newport Beach, just south of Los Angeles. The place took me back to one of my favorite movies that I remember from my childhood called “Hardbodies” which was made in 1984. The acting is terrible, the plot sucks but for a 12 year old kid, there was no better film. Another such memorable film was “Hotdog the Movie” again written in 1984. For an imprudent teenage boy these two movies were Academy Award Winning Epic Drams that served as a foundation of good times to come. In my opinion “Hotdog the Movie” started a complete genre of future ski bum flicks which would eventually lead me to fulfill my dream of living in Colorado which I did for a better part of 6 years. These movies were horrific on many different levels but in some distorted way helped give me the fortitude to break from the pack and live my life based upon my own ideals. As muddled as my principals may be, I still wake up with a smile on my face and for that I am grateful. Life is not all about the eternal struggle of mankind; sometimes it’s just about kicking back and having some fun.

Bring on the Cold

2010-11-29T20:46:00.000-08:00

The ugly cold of winter has set upon our souls in Western, New York as can be witnessed by the dull gray sky which will not return blue until the flowers bloom. It has been two months since I rode my cycle and I have wrestled guilt and have been beaten senseless by life’s ugly calendar. Time has disappeared without my consent and when I woke up summer was gone and fall was in the rear view mirror.

Winter has a prison like somber feel but today we broke free from the chains of our torment and let loose our engines to tread upon the paved cold road.

I knew I had a good ride because I did not know how cold I was until I got home and found that I could not feel my toes. As I ponder my life, I have found that a simple ride will always bring a smile upon my face and lighten the load that will at times burden my mind with worry. The ride sets us free and I only wish I could do it more often.

Seize the moment!

Wellington Monument

2010-10-29T17:24:00.000-07:00

The Wellington Monument is located in Phoenix Park, Dublin. It is the largest obelisk in Europe and the second largest in the world after the Washington Monument. The massive granite structure is a tribute to Arthur Wellesley, 1^st Duke of Wellington. The ‘Iron Duke’ was born in Dublin and traveled the world as a British Officer fighting for the Crown. After Napoleon escaped his exile from Elba he quickly regained control of France. It was Arthur Wellesley who was in command of an Anglo-Germanic Army who stopped Napoleon cold at Waterloo. The battle of Waterloo marked the last battle of the Napoleonic Wars. Afterwards Napoleon was again exiled to spend the rest of his days in Saint Helena.

A Dublin legend suggests that in 1820 there was a fund raiser in the vault under the pillar of the monument which was sealed up leaving the dinning ware, tables and chairs behind. A few weeks later it was noticed that a butler who was working the fund raiser at the monument was reported missing. He was last seen highly intoxicated in the vault of the monument. It was assumed that he had drunk too much and remained unconscious and unnoticed behind a screen while the room was being sealed.

County Wicklow, Ireland

2010-10-16T12:42:00.001-07:00

I was able to visit the County Wicklow this past Saturday and immediately realized that the majestic beauty of Ireland has absolutely no bounds. There I found the ancient remains of the Monastery of Glendalough. The granite buildings that remain date back from the 10 and 12 Centuries. Ardmore Studios is also located in County Wicklow and many famous movies were filmed here in these wondrous mountains and splendid green valleys. Here is a list of Ardmore Productions filmed in and around County Wicklow.

This Other Eden (1958)^[4]
Shake Hands with the Devil (1959)
Sword of Sherwood Forest (1960)
The Mark (1961)
The Spy Who Came in from the Cold (1965)^[1]
The Blue Max (1966)^[1]
The Viking Queen (1967)
The Lion in Winter (1968)^[1]
Images (1972)
Zardoz (1974)
The Last Remake of Beau Geste (1977)
Excalibur (1981)
Angel (1982)
My Left Foot (1989)
Fools of Fortune (1990)
The Commitments (1991)
Rock-a-Doodle (1991)
In the Name of the Father (1993)
Braveheart (1995)
Space Truckers (1996)
The Tailor of Panama (2001)
Evelyn (2002)
King Arthur (2004)
Breakfast on Pluto (2005)
Becoming Jane (2007)
The Tudors (TV series) (2006 - 2010)
The Last Furlong (2011)

Forms of Transport in Dublin

2010-10-03T11:04:00.000-07:00

You have to love the forms of transportation in Dublin. There are a ton of Harleys in Ireland, more then I would have thought. I have seen mostly Sporters which makes sense given the small roads. Splitting lanes is tough on a bigger ride. I brought my riding gear with me but renting a cycle in Ireland is a small fortune. Unfortunately my funds are limited and work never rests but one never knows what magic will occur. Heck I am just fortunate to have an opportunity to live in Ireland for a few months. Attached are a few more cool forms of Transports that I came across.

Cockles and Mussels

2010-10-03T04:28:00.000-07:00

Cockles and Mussels, or Molly Malone

Comic Song, Written and Composed by James Yorkston

In Dublin's Fair City
Where the girls are so pretty
I first set my eyes on sweet Molly Malone
As she wheel'd her wheel barrow
Through streets broad and narrow
Crying cockles and mussels alive, alive o!

Chorus
Alive, alive o!, alive, alive o!
Crying cockles and mussels alive, alive o!

She was a fishmonger
But sure 'twas no wonder
For so were her father and mother before
And they each wheel'd their barrow
Through streets broad and narrow
Crying cockles and mussels alive, alive o!

Chorus

She died of a fever
And no one could save her
And that was the end of sweet Molly Malone
But her ghost wheels her barrow
Through streets broad and narrow
Crying cockles and mussels alive, alive o!

Chorus

A Tribute on the River Liffey

2010-09-28T12:27:00.000-07:00

While taking a walk along the River Liffey in the Ireland, I was fortunate enough to find a tribute to all those who survived, suffered and died during the Great Famine which took place in Ireland and throughout Europe in 1845-1852. The Great Famine or more commonly known as Potato Blight was caused by a fungus that ravaged potato crops throughout Europe. In Ireland, a third of the population was entirely dependent on the potato for food. The lack of the potato crop caused horrific suffering, starvation and death. Ireland’s population fell by more than 20 percent during the feminine. Estimates of a million Irish persons died by disease and mass starvation and another million people emigrated from Ireland out of pure desperation. The fungus that caused the disease of the potato still exists today. Fortunately in 1882 scientists discovered a cure for Phytophthora Infestans. At the time of the famine there was nothing that farmers could do to save their crop.

Man with No Mustard Verses Machine

2010-09-21T13:11:00.000-07:00

So I am in Ireland on business for a few months and need to wash my clothing. While leaving the apartment to get to the Laundromat my neighbor tells me that there is a Washing Machine near my kitchen sink. A washing machine in the kitchen camouflaged by cabinets, what a god sent idea. So I rushed upstairs to the apartment and there it was the coolest thing these star struck eyes have ever witnessed. Yes a washer/Dryer combo hidden underneath a kitchen counter. I have been here for 3 days and never knew the thing existed. I actually had to read the directions and accidently put dish detergent in the first load but the thing works like a dream. The machines greatness does not end. Its stealth like as well. The wonder of nature doesn’t even let out a decibel even on tumble dry.

I think there is a mustard shortage in Dublin because I went to four different grocery stores looking for some zesty mustard for my ham sandwiches and came up short. Someone call 911 because this guy is smack out of mustard. I will pray to the mustard fairy tonight in hope that some will show up under my pillow.

I Am Back From Boston

2010-09-19T14:13:00.000-07:00

Wow I cannot believe I have been gone since May. It has been too long.
So the 2010 Harley Super Glide (FXD) has been great. The power flows through the machine while the adrenaline runs rabid in my blood. It feels raw and rowdy as I drive down the road but in a good way. It’s like I am controlling a beast that is hell bent on chaos. Unfortunately for the beast, it can only do my bidding. Some of you may think that I am taking my description to far but please note the only other bike that I have ever ridden is a 750 Honda Shadow. I do admit that I lack a bit of variety to compare the cycle. The only issue I have with the FXD has been the handle bars. At first I thought it was a perfect fit but after being on the bike for an hour I get a pain in my upper back. This has more to do with my physical being rather than the cycle. Over the winter I am putting on some Ape Hangers that will bring the bars to where I want them.
So I wanted to upload a few photos from my recent trip to Boston, MA. I can only say that Boston Rocks. Second to New Orleans, Boston is my favorite American City. When you visit, just park the bike and walk around for 4 hours. It’s such a small city that in that time you can reach the best historic sites that New England has to offer. From the North Church to Old Ironside, history is truly at your footstep. Follow the Freedom Trail so you don’t miss a thing.

One Mountain Climbed, Now Bring on the Marathon

2010-05-21T17:01:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday I did something I have not done in 15 years, I climbed a mountain. Well it’s not such a mammoth feat for some but for me climbing a mountain was a goal that needed to be topped. For two days after the hike I hobbled around like a paraplegic panda but the pain of the moment was suppressed by the fiery emotions brought upon me by the sense of the accomplishment.

On my hike I found my alter ego lost in a world of realism, stress, guilt and burdens. Yes it’s the same part of me that I often find when I’m on my motorcycle riding free down a curvaceous back canyon road. I realized that this is the part of my soul that one only finds when the weight of the world is lifted, letting a man become one with the moment. The pain of the trek up that trail made me forget of all things worldly and the higher I got, the more enlightened I felt. It was a good day.

So I dropped 35 pounds, my blood pressure and Cholesterol has been normalized and I have decided to run a marathon. It’s time to make this happen. Why challenge myself to run a marathon? My logic may not make sense to many of you. I have always wanted to Hike the Appalachian Trail but got side tracked with life, obesity and other obligations. My Hike up the No Name Mountain outside of Los Angeles proved to me that I need to do more than just lose some weight; I need to get back into fighting shape. I figure if I can run a marathon then I will be ready to begin my Hike of the entire Appellation Trail. I have no time line to Hike the AT but I have begun my training to run my first marathon. Who knows the AT could be sooner than latter but one can only focus on the immediate goal in front of them.

So here is to finding that lost inner child. Let your own journey take you back home to nirvana.

Head West

2010-05-02T20:25:00.000-07:00

The first European to set foot upon the shores of San Diego was a Portuguese explorer named Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo in 1542. This area became part of the United States after the Mexican-American War in 1850. The region is as diverse as the people that occupy this exquisite place. Golden sandy beaches to the West flow into rolling mountains to the immediate east. The contrasts of the geographical settings are enough to stir ones emotions beyond recognition. Just south is Mexico and only 1.5 hours north is Los Angeles. A year round riding experience awaits the cycle faithful. I love my home state of New York but I can tell you that the wonders of this place can make a man think about moving west. The thought of extending my riding season 5 months is enough to seriously contemplate the move. More photos and posts to come of California.

Ride the Finger Lakes

2010-04-30T13:01:00.000-07:00

If you ever get to Western, NY, take a ride south of Rochester to Bristol Mountain outside of Naples, New York. This is part of the Finger Lakes Region and it’s a perfect setting for a cycle trip. I actually put 400 miles on my bike in the last two days and totally enjoyed every minute it. The above photos are of my buddy Mark on his Electra Glide and another of my ride with a waterfall backdrop.

A New Transition

2010-04-22T16:17:00.000-07:00

It was cold here in Western New York but the feel of my Harley Dyna Super Glide took me far away from the chilly wind and all I focused on was the feel of the cycle as it traversed the back country roads. I will never forget the feel of my first cycle (HONDA SHADOW 750) which I have ridden for six years without issue nor complaint but there is a difference between the Harley and Honda which is like night and day. The Honda being the little engine that could; the Harley being more like Godzilla destroying Tokyo. There is no disrespect meant towards the Honda Shadow. We’re talking two different bikes with two different classes of engines and it would not be prudent to compare the two. The main issue for me now is that for the first time in my life, I have the ability to go really fast. What can I say, I like the feeling!

So on this day, I would like to sincerely say Thank You to my Honda for giving me six years of adventure. Your spirit and character made me the rider and I am today and the experience has been a soul enhancing journey. Ride now and Ride hard.

I Have a Sickness

2010-04-19T17:41:00.000-07:00

So I have been searching for a new bike to buy for the last 4 months and I am horrifically fond of the pursuit. So it's either a Harley Street Bob or a Triumph Tiger 1050. You really can not get different bikes but I love both of them. Should I go with the Hard Core Cruiser or the Adventure Tourer? I am at a loss but either way I can not make a wrong choice.

Spring is here so no matter what bike you have ride it.

St. Patricks's Cathedral, Dublin, Ireland

2010-03-02T17:13:00.001-08:00

On Sunday I had found myself upon the footsteps of St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin, Ireland. Words alone cannot begin to explain the intrinsic beauty of this place nor can the photos of the interior do the ornate architecture justice. As you walk into the stone bastion, you are immediately smothered by the history of the Cathedral which is almost overwhelming. St. Patrick’s Cathedral is believed to be built on the earliest Christian site in Ireland where St. Patrick baptized converts. The original church was built in 1191 and the present structure dates back to 1220. The working Church of Ireland Cathedral is open to the public for a fee but the visit is more than worth the price one pays. In the north transept, I saw a tribute to a time honored 18^th Regiment of Foot or better known as the Royal Irish Regiment. The Royal Irish Regiment fought at Lexington and Concord on April 19, 1775 as well as the Battle of Bunker Hill which has been discussed on this blog back on 27Aug2009. The brave men of the Royal Irish Regiment witnessed the shot heard around the world which signified the beginning of the American War for Independence which would not end in America until 1782. During the first significant battle of the American Revolution the Royal Irish Regiment suffered 2 brave soldiers killed in action and 2 wounded.

Drisheen Anyone

2010-02-14T13:35:00.000-08:00

Some people call it Irish Black Pudding but it reminds me of sausage with style. Drisheen is a mixture of blood, milk, bread crumb, salt and fat which is then boiled and cooked using the animal’s intestine as the cuisines exoskeleton. The
blood usually comes from cow, pig or sheep. In my humble opinion Drisheen is an Irish delight. 10 hour days at the job have limited my ability to explore but I am still getting out when I can and observing the awe of this amazing place. So for the last three weeks I have been eating at gas stations for breakfast and dinner. Food is very expensive here, so I am saving all the money that I can and putting my funds towards a motorcycle. I have found that I can have a meal at a Gas Station for about 5 Euro compared to 20-30 Euro a meal at a sit down restaurant. Gas Station food is neither all that healthy nor good but it is inexpensive. On an emotional level riding is just as important as the oxygen I breathe. So over the next few months I will be looking for a new scoot and saving as much money as I can. In the mean time, it’s a countdown till spring when we can hit the road. I have attached a few more photos from my journey here in Ireland. THINK SPRING!

Grateful

2010-01-31T22:03:00.001-08:00

Every once in a while the stars align in such a way that luck is propelled upon an individual. Here I sit in Ireland surrounded by ancient wonders and sublime majestic beauty. Unfortunately I am not here to ride but by the looks of the place it is a two wheel delight. Over the last week, I have seen a ton of motorcyclist braving the cold on the city streets of Dublin. The allure of the place is staggering and I cannot begin describe it. William Butler Yeates was born in Ireland and now rests here in the shadow of a wondrous cliff. Here is a poem from one of one of Ireland’s greatest authors.

The Wild Swans at Coole by William Butler Yeates

The trees are in their autumn beauty,
The woodland paths are dry,
Under the October twilight the water
Mirrors a still sky;
Upon the brimming water among the stones
Are nine-and-fifty Swans.
The nineteenth autumn has come upon me
Since I first made my count;
I saw, before I had well finished,
All suddenly mount
And scatter wheeling in great broken rings
Upon their clamorous wings.
I have looked upon those brilliant creatures,
And now my heart is sore.
All's changed since I, hearing at twilight,
The first time on this shore,
The bell-beat of their wings above my head,

Trod with a lighter tread.

Unwearied still, lover by lover,
They paddle in the cold
Companionable streams or climb the air;

Their hearts have not grown old;
Passion or conquest, wander where they will,
Attend upon them still.
But now they drift on the still water,
Mysterious, beautiful;
Among what rushes will they build,
By what lake's edge or pool
Delight men's eyes when I awake some day

To find they have flown away?

A Scent on a Frigid Cold Ride

2009-12-28T09:16:00.000-08:00

It got above freezing in Western New York today so I took the opportunity to go for a ride. It is rare this time of year that there are no ice patches on the roads. If you have a chance to exploit Old Man Winters grip on this place then you need to take it. As I drove my Honda along the shores of Lake Ontario, I smelled a scent reminiscent of a winter’s hike up Mt. Evens in Colorado that I trekked more than decade ago. A strange déjà vu kind of moment struck me which was brought upon by this snowy scent. Physically I was on my bike but mentally I was transported from my motorcycle directly into the memory of a winter hike up a mountain which I took a long time ago. Then as quickly as the recollection came, it was over and I was back on of my motorcycle scanning north along the waters of the lake. This is the third time in my life that a smell has caused such a dramatic mental recollection. It’s like certain scents have the ability to directly “Main Line” your conscious to a specific memory from ones past. Along with the reminiscence of the moment come the feelings associated with that memory which make the memory that much more dramatic and fresh. For that split second I was there and back again. It was a rather surreal refection on a specific moment from my past and I am thankful for its recall. As I write this short blog, I am reminded that it’s great to remember the past but I never want to lose focus upon the creation of new memories and adventures which will occur in the future. Hopefully all of you find all that you’re looking for in 2010. Keep Safe, Ride Hard and Be Well!

When Is It Safe to Ride with Your Kids?

2009-11-22T13:45:00.000-08:00

I was fortunate enough to be able to spend some quality time with my two boys while home on vacation. We took a great hike, got muddy and climbed some trees. The day could not have been better! Often I have thought that I would love to take one of the boys on a cycle ride. Heck, my wife used to ride with me all the time, but now she refuses stating, “If we got into an accident then the boys would have no one”. Her logic is clear enough, and it stems from her love of our children, so who am I to judge. Now my oldest child is turning seven, and I would love to include him in my love for anything motorcycles. I am not talking about a two week trek. What I am talking about are just quick jaunts to local hiking trails, the park, the lake and the ice cream stands. The quality time we could spend together would be immeasurable. The argument is moot because my wife will not allow it, but I still wonder about the question “when is safe for a child to ride on a motorcycle?”
I believe ultimately that it must be the parent’s choice, but I know that there must be some individual state laws that say something about it. Any thoughts on the subject?

Kiss a Veteran Every Day

2009-11-10T18:50:00.000-08:00

We live in the microcosms of our own lives, and we rarely self reflect on the ills of our fellow man. Every day we should think about those less fortunate than ourselves and hopefully take action to assist others in need. On November 11th we celebrate the service of our Veterans. It is my belief that Veterans should be honored on a daily basis not just once a year.
Veterans Day gets its history from the end of World War I. On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918, the Germans signed an Armistice to end the war, which was supposed to end all wars.
Legislation was passed in 1938 to make Armistice Day a National Holiday dedicated to the cause of world peace and gave tribute to World War I Veterans as well. In 1954, the United States officially made Armistice Day into Veterans Day.
Veterans Day is a special time to remember deceased veterans as well as thank and honor living veterans who served honorably in the military. Memorial Day honors service members who died in service to their country.

Jury Duty Has Its Privileges

2009-11-08T15:12:00.000-08:00

It was a call to perform Jury Duty which brought me home from Atlanta, GA and I was able to slip one last ride along the Erie Canal before Old Man Winter covers this whole region with a blanket of snow. The Erie Canal connects Lake Erie with the Hudson River along approximately 363 miles of artificial waterways. Construction of the canal began in 1817 and was completed in 1832. Back in the day the Erie Canal was immensely successful. The railroads, the St. Lawrence Seaway and the New York State Thruway sealed the Erie Canals commercial demise. In the 1990’s the Erie Canal received a major overhaul and now is a recreation way which consist of mostly pleasure boats.

A Distance to Travel

2009-11-06T18:22:00.000-08:00

Being on a cycle moves me, literally and figuratively. There is nothing like going for a quick jaunt down to the local park or taking a day ride through the rural areas of your own back yard. These expeditious trips do much for the betterment of mind and body. After a few hours on the cycle, I usually feel bliss beyond measure. The day’s journey on the road does its part by making me a better husband, dad and provider. For many of us two wheeled fanatics, these trips serve us as a quasi fountain of youth. We may look old on the exterior, but inside we’re as new and vibrant as our fondest memories. Though these excursions are fantastic, it is the 6 to 8 day road trip that brings my soul to another dimension. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to take 3 different far-reaching adventures on my cycle. Each excursion has been approximately 1500 miles of pure soulful joy. It’s not about the places I have been; it’s about how I felt getting there.

Rules of My Road Trip-
1.Itineraries are for office dwellers. Leave them home along with your watch.
2.Locals are the best resource for great routes and places to see.
3.Live outside the box. As long as it’s safe then give it a try.
4.Take in all the wondrous moment while on the road and save them for a rainy day.

Last year my goal was to get to Nova Scotia. Well I never did make it into Canada, but had the time of my life trying to get there.
In reality every individual is different in the way in which they like to plan their route and trip. No way is better than the other. The important thing is that you are out on two wheels searching for that permanent smile beyond the horizon.

MYSTIC

2009-09-13T18:33:00.000-07:00

The following photos were taken at the Mystic Seaport in Connecticut. A portion of the movie Amistad was filmed at this location. The film was based on true events which took place back in 1839. A ship named Amistad was caring a cargo of 53 slaves on route to Cuba when the human cargo revolted against their captors and took control of the ship. The boat made its way into the Long Island Sound and was eventually escorted into New Haven, CT by the US Navy where the slaves were taken into custody. The slave’s freedom was then fought for in the court room. In the Supreme Court Case, United States VS. The Amistad Africans, an aging John Quincy Adams successfully argued that all human beings were naturally free people and were entitled to their freedom under American Law. The Amistad Africans were then set free. John Quincy Adams served as President of the United States during the years 1825-1829 and lost his re-election bid to Andrew Jackson. President John Quincy Adams often took an early morning nude swim in the Potomac. A young writer who unsuccessfully requested an interview with the President caught wind of his naked baths. One early morning the insistent journalist collected the President’s clothing while he swam and refused to give him his garments until the exposed President conceded to an interview. Reporter Anne Royall was the first female correspondent to interview an American President. John Quincy Adams is the only person to be elected to the House of Representatives after serving as President. What most impressed me with John Quincy Adams was his extraordinary service after his tenure as President.

New Port, Rhode Island

2009-08-31T18:02:00.000-07:00

Above are my photos of my trip to New Port, Rhode Island. If you like mansions, the beach, architecture, history, sea food and boats then this may be a good place to visit.

During my trip I had a chance to try some genuine Boston Baked Beans at a few New England Restaurants. In the early 1700’s the grand consumption of the meal gave Boston the nickname Beantown. Back then cities such as Boston and New Port were part of the Triangular Sea Trade where Sugar would be produced in the Caribbean. The sugar was then shipped to ports in New England and made into Rum. The rum would then be sent to Africa and used to buy more slaves which were brought back to the Caribbean and West Indies. Molasses made from sugar was very inexpensive in Boston during this time and beans were grown throughout the North East and were inexpensive as well. The surplus of beans and sugar made it possible for the masses in the area to consume Baked Beans on the cheap. The credit for the respite of Boston Baked Beans goes to the Native Americans of the area who were eating the dish long before the colonials.

The Lost Battle of Bunker Hill

2009-08-27T19:00:00.000-07:00

On June 17, 1775, the second major battle of the American Revolutionary War began with the British advance on Breeds Hill outside of Boston, Massachusetts. After 2 failed assaults the British Regulars captured positions from the Colonial Forces defending the hill. American Militia then retreated to Bunker Hill where the Colonials were ultimately defeated by a well disciplined and motivated British Force.
The resulting victory for the British Army was truly a credit upon the dedication and honor of the British Army advancing up those two hills. The British tactically met their objective but suffered their greatest losses of the entire war. Colonial Forces stood and fought against the greatest military power on earth and wreaked a 42 percent causality rate upon the enemy. British General Clinton stated, “It was a dear bought victory, another such would have ruined us.” Nathanial Greene who was a Rhode Island Colonial General put the encounter in perspective when he said, “I wish we could sell them another hill at the same price.” The Lost Battle of Bunker Hill soon became a rallying cry for American Patriots across the 13 Colonies and served as a betterment to the cause of liberty. (The photo at the top of the post is of the Monument at Bunker Hill. The photo below was taken from the top of the monument and shows the Boston Sky Line.)

Have You Seen a Giant Sea Turtle with a Gun Turret Mount on its Shell?

2009-08-17T18:08:00.000-07:00

I am a loner by birth but I am also a social creature by habit. I love hanging around others until it’s time to go and love to contemplate life alone until I get bored. I have driven half way across county on my cycle alone without feeling solitude because I was lost in the moment. Then there are times where it would be nice to have someone to ride with down to the local ice cream shop. In the most part, I would define myself as a solo rider not because I dislike riding with others but because an itinerary is not an option for me. The other day I was riding with a group of friends. We were driving down a back road and for some reason there was a statue of a huge Sea Turtle with a Gun Turret Mount on its shell sitting in someone’s yard. Well as an Iraq War Vet, that sculpture constitutes my definition of modern art. That turtle had character and is something you just don’t see every day. Everyone was in such a rush that I did not have a chance to stop and take a photo. It’s not all that easy to stop and grab a picture when you have 5 riders ahead of you and 3 behind you. You need to understand that the last camera my riding buddies probably had was a Polaroid. For me to stop, I would be interfering with everyone else’s definition of a good ride. Maybe I need to find some folks to ride with that have the same need to take photos of strange things? I guess I could always lead the group of riders then people would be forced to do what I wanted. The sad part of this story is that I have no idea where I was when I saw that Giant Sea Turtle or I would go back and get the photo (when not leading a ride I tend to day dream and have no concept of my geographical location). Strange thing is that I really would not have been happy to just get a photo of that battle ready tortuous. I would like to have found out why the owner of the home had such a monstrosity sitting in their front yard. That story would have made for a better post then the actual photo. Oh for missed opportunities, well next time I see such a thing I am stopping!

It’s Not Just About The Dressing.

2009-08-11T20:31:00.001-07:00

Have you ever heard of Thousand Island Dressing? Have you ever heard of the Thousand Island Region of Upstate New York? This past weekend I was fortunate enough to visit Alexandria Bay, NY and if you have not yet visited then give it a try.

Let’s get back to the dressing. In the early 1900’s a women named Sofia Lalonde concocted a dressing which became a local Favorite. Sofia lived in Clayton, NY which was nestled in the Thousand Island Region on New York State. The Respite eventually made its way to a part time summer resident George Boldt who happened to own the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City. He was so enthralled with the flavor of the dressing that he ordered it on the Waldorf Astoria’s Menu which catapulted the dressing to become the Thousand Island Dressing which is so famous today.

This takes us to George C Boldt and his famous castle (please see the photos above). The story goes that he builds this castle for a summer home for his wife. Four years into the project, she passes away. Mr. Boldt then halts all constructions and vacates the property. The unfinished Castle actually sits vacant for 70 years until the mid 70’s when NY State Acquires the property. They hype this as the saddest story ever told. Don’t get me wrong, love lost is a tragic event and I can only sympathize with the sorrow Mr. Boldt endured. As sad as his loss was I feel that his emotions could have been channeled in a more positive direction to lay a tribute to his diseased wife. Instead all the effort that was put forth to construct this glorious Island Castle becomes wasted along with his grief. Why not finish the castle and pass it along to charity in her honor. In the End it was Mr. Boldt’s money to waste. I truly believe that grief and intense emotions can be channeled in a positive direction and it saddens me that the man could have turned a horrifically ugly and sad situation into something positive. To let this castle just waste away for 70 years just seems criminal given that it could have been used for other such positive endeavors. Either way you look at it the story of the Boldt Castle is a sad one but it’s a wondrous site to behold and is worth the trip alone.

2009-08-10T20:17:00.000-07:00

http://baronsview.blogspot.com/ has passed on this award to MotoPhotoAdventure with a request that it be passed on to other deserving blogs.

Rules:

1. Accept the award, post it on your blog together with the name of the person who has granted the award and his or her blog link.
2. Pass the award to as many or as few other blogs that you have newly discovered. Remember to contact the bloggers to let them know they have been chosen for this award.

So I pass this award on to:

1- http://www.scribe816.com/

Conviction or Bust

2009-08-02T19:37:00.000-07:00

The post below has nothing to do with the common theme of MotoPhotoAdventures but I felt compelled to share my thoughts.

Below is an article which was published today in the Seattle Times. It’s about a bank teller named Jim Nicholson who was fired from his job for chasing down and catching a bank robber. In the defense of the bank there are many reasons why the banks have rules against tellers doing such heroic acts. Some may say that Mr. Nicholson may have put others in danger through his actions but he also had the courage and fervor to act on his own conviction. Mr. Nicholoson exhibited behavior that should be celebrated and not punished. It just seems that too many people lack the fortitude to take a stand on principal and are willing to sell their morals to the highest bidder.

Our society seems to openly promote us to look the other way when others are in harm’s way. It’s an issue that plagues America. It starts in our schools with bullies terrorizing others and continues on the streets where the week and less fortunate are taken advantage of every day. I think as a population we need to focus more on what is right and wrong and worry less about law suits and financial gain. I spent a year in Iraq back in 2003 and have seen ugliness beyond disbelief but in that same place I witnessed immeasurable courage, kindness and love. As a people, I believe we must begin to look beyond ourselves. We must grasp the concept of humanity and fight for the common good. It begins with simple work of charity and manifests its self to a more splendid world.

Seattle bank teller chases robber, loses job

via the Associated Press from the Seattle Times

Sun Aug 2, 1:24 pm ET

SEATTLE – A Seattle bank teller has lost his job because he ran down a would-be bank robber and held him until police arrived. Jim Nicholson, 30, who had worked for more than two years at a Key Bank branch near the Seattle Center, says he understands the bank's strict policy that employees comply with robbery demands and avoid confrontations.

But he told The Seattle Times that instinct took over when a thin man in a beanie cap, dark clothing and sunglasses pushed a black backpack across the bank counter on Tuesday and demanded money.

Nicholson threw the bag to the floor, lunged toward the man and demanded to see a weapon. The man bolted for the door with Nicholson in pursuit.

He chased him several blocks before knocking him to the ground with the help of a passer-by. Nicholson then held the man until police arrived.

On Thursday, Nicholson was fired. Key Bank spokeswoman Anne Foster declined to comment on Nicholson and his actions.

Police and the FBI discourage such heroics. Bank tellers are trained to get robbers out the door quickly and are advised against possibly escalating a situation over money that's federally insured.

Nicholson said he understands why he was fired.

"They tell us that we're just supposed to comply, but my instincts kicked in and I did what's best to stop the guy," he said. "I thought if I let him go he would rob more banks and cause more problems."

Seattle police Sgt. Sean Whitcomb said the best course for citizens is to be good witnesses to crimes.

"When confronted by a violent criminal, it is best to comply unless they feel their personal safety is in jeopardy. It is possible that taking action and confronting the criminal may lead to the injury of the victim or other bystanders."

"You want tellers to be proactive, but you want them to do it safely," said FBI Special Agent Fred Gutt.

The would-be robber, a 29-year-old transient, has a lengthy criminal history, including convictions for theft and robbery, according to court records. Charges in the attempted robbery were not immediately filed.

Nicholson said he has run after shoplifters while working at other retail jobs.

"It's something I almost look forward to. It's a thrill and I'm an adrenaline-junkie person. It's the pursuit," he said.

Information from: The Seattle Times,

A Visit to See Jack

2009-08-01T16:30:00.000-07:00

Just got back from a great tour of the Jack Daniel’s Distillery. There were tons of motorcyclists out.
The riding around Lynchburg, Tennessee is just plain gorgeous. Rolling green hills and fresh black top make for a pleasant journey. I wish I had a dual sport because the wild off road terrain in the surrounding areas begged for some action. The roads are perfect, the people were pleasant and the tour of the Jack Daniel’s Distillery is free. If you get to Lynchburg remember that the tour of the distillery is about 1.5 hours long and afterward you must get a bite at the Iron Kettle Restaurant. The town of Lynchburg is worth a walk through as well.

My Everest

2009-07-15T12:51:00.000-07:00

There is only one thing worst then a dream not fulfilled and that is a dream which has been forgotten. Dreams give us hope, dreams make us smile, dreams keep us vibrant and dreams drive us to obtain the impossible.

I am back down south working and will not be able to get back to my cycle for 3 weeks. Maybe the time away from riding is a good thing because I have had some time to ponder of dreams long past. After reflecting on my life, I have found that there is yet one goal I have not yet achieved. My Everest is to complete the Appalachian Trail. Ashamed as I am to admit, I tried to complete the AT when I graduated college. My unsuccessful attempt lead to a string of bad decisions which continued till I got my head together in AmeriCorps*NCCC. . The Appalachian Trail represents one last Goal I have not yet obtained. It's funny because a while ago before I graduated High School, I came up with a bunch of things that I just needed to do. It's crazy because at age 37 I have accomplished all but one task. One more achievement to make before I can start a new list of things to do. Well I am about 50 pounds overweight, have financial and family responsibilities to contend with but when there is a will one can find the way. I just need to find it. The first step may be to stop drinking Coke and eating Twinkies.