February 27, 2010

Although nine of us gathered as usual beside The Whistle Stop on Plant City this morning, only one of us, yours truly, arrived on a motorcycle.  The others chose the cager option in deference to the impending rain storm.  Shortly after 8:00 a.m., we walked over to our usual breakfast stop at Snellgrove's Restaurant, only to find that some usurpers had confiscated our usual Saturday morning table.  Not wanting to break up the group, we left Snellgrove's and headed over to The Brickhouse.  Breakfast was good.  Conversation was better.  Coffee was on the low side of mediocre and the "smoked sausage" turned out to be kielbasa, but the rest was pretty good.

After breakfast, we adjourned to the quiet of the parking lot to discuss the upcoming ride schedule and other chapter business.  It was decided that we would financially support the East Hillboro Law Enforcement Appreciation banquet.  Ride leadership for the next three weeks was also discussed as I will be absent on other business.  Thanks to Bill, Eddie and Boyd for volunteering to take turns leading during my absence.

The group broke up after the meeting with everyone taking advantage to the rain to attend to other projects.

Gunny

Northeast Polk - February 20, 2010

Nine Blue Knights and friends gathered for breakfast in Plant City, FL on the warmest day in a long time.

Although we had discussed trying someplace different for breakfast, the convenience of Snellgroves won out once again.

Bob K. and Robert check out Eddie's new Voyager.

As many of the group were either under the weather or had more pressing business elsewhere, there were only four motorcycles who set out together after breakfast. The plan was to explored some of the better roads in northeast Polk County. The map below shows an overview of our route. Click on the map for full details.

The most apparent feature of today's ride was an up close view of the flooding of much of the low-laying areas in the county caused by the heavy rains we have experienced this month. The ground in is area is fully saturated. I believe that it is the most standing water I have seen since I moved here in 1998.

After traveling 100 miles exploring these often neglected gems, we stopped for lunch at Country Angels Restaurant at 122 N Commonwealth Ave. in Polk City. In spite of appearances in the picture below, the place is always busy. The position of the motorcycles indicates how we had to squeeze them in when first we arrived.


After lunch, we headed to Fun Bike Center so Eddie could look for a backrest for the Voyager and J.T. could price a trailer hitch for his Gold Wing. Both left disappointed.

Leaving this stop, the group broke up with everyone heading for home after and enjoyable day of riding.

"Ride with Pride"
Gunny

February 13, 2010 - Eustis

Saturday morning dawned cold and overcast but the weatherman promised that is would soon clear and warm up. With that forecast, seven riders met in Plant City for breakfast at Snellgroves. After the now ritual session of food, fun and conversation, Eddie, J.T., Lloyd and I prepared for the day's ride while Bill, Boyd, and Bob K. headed off for other activities.

The plan called for a ride north to the Ocala National Forest and so the four bikes turned in that direction. The route took us to Green Pond Road which normally means a quick run across one of the area's truly crooked roads. Unfortunately, the quick turned to cautious as this week's rains had left the roadway wet and, in a few places, partially covered with water. The recent patches on the road's surface were also deteriorating, leaving a lot of loose gravel on the road surface.

The group stopped at the one-lane bridge to get a couple pictures of Eddie's new 2010 Voyager.

And the swollen creek passing under the bridge.

A victim of the cold, wet weather?

As the promised temperature increase had not yet arrived, I also took the opportunity to add a pair of glove liners under my winter gloves. A very welcome improvement.

Completing the ride across Green Pond Road, we headed for CR-561, CR-565B and 565A. By the time we reached the area SR-50 and CR-565A, we were in need of a warm room, hot coffee and a restroom. A Burger King solved all three needs.

As we sat enjoying the hot coffee, Eddie asked if it would be possible to stop by Champions Powersports so he could check on a Hi-Viz jacket like the ones J.T. and I were wearing. So, leaving the Burger King, we altered course and headed for Eustis and Champions.

As we walked through the showroom at Champions, two used Gold Wings caught my eye. One was a 2007 burnt orange model with 38,000 plus miles, some nice extras, and a $16,000 price tag. The other was a cherry looking yellow 2001 with, get this, 198,000 miles on the odometer. That makes my 2006 with 61,000 miles seem almost new. Oh, by the way, Eddie decided against a new jacket.

As we were behind schedule leaving Champions, we decided to forgo the trip to the Ocala National Forsest and turned back towards home, intending to stop for lunch along the way. Boyd and I had previously seen a little restaurant on CR-448 west of Lake Jem and the group, decided to give it a try.

Mary's Kountry Kitchen is not much on size or decor, but the food is excellent, plentiful and reasonable. In the ultimate testimonial, Eddie vowed that we would be back.


Leaving the restaurant we found that the weather had finally warmed to the mid-50's leaving us a much more pleasant ride home.

Today's ride covered 164 miles, getting us home about 2:30 p.m. Click here to see the exact route.

See you next time.

Gunny

January 30, 2010 - What? No Rain?

The original plan for today was to ride to Sarasota to visit Yoder's Restaurant and the Ringling Museum. However, the weather report caused that plan to be abandoned. Instead, eleven of us gathered under threatening skies for breakfast in Plant City. After enjoying the usual camaraderie over toast, eggs and coffee, most headed home, while five of us (Boyd, J.T., Debbie, Scott and I) decided to take advantage of the still dry roads to get in in a few miles on the motorcycles.

As the radar map showed the northern skies laden with extensive, heavy rain storms, we turned our ride south towards Old Hopewell, Keysville, Welcome, and Jameson Road (Kent, was that you who passed by as we crossed the South Prong of the Alifia River?). As we turned south on CR-39, Scott left the group to head home. The rest of the group rode on to Picnic, Balm, Grange Hall and Fort Lonesome where we stopped for a short break.

We were soon on the road again, heading over to Bethlehem, Bradley Junction, Agricola, Green Bay, then Mulberry. Boyd and I decided to stop at Dee's Fish Place in Mulberry while J.T. and Debbie decided to head home to beat the rain.

Dee's is a small, old fashioned lunch room on the corner of Babcock and 1st Avenue with friendly service and good food and, yes Lloyd, Wi Fi. Although they claim to be the home of the world's best 14 oz. hamburger, Boyd and I both opted for the special of the day - catfish nuggets with homemade potato chips. Both were excellent and plentiful. The chips were reminiscent of those served at Mojo's but a little better, I think.

After a leisurely lunch, Boyd and I headed back to Lakeland. I arrived home about 1:30 p.m., still dry, having covered about 120 miles since leaving that morning. Not a bad ride considering the projected rain storms.

Route

See you again next Saturday.

Jan. 2, 2010 - Dade Battlefield

Today, Boyd, J.T., Robert and I braved the 39 degree morning temperatures to take a ride back into history. After a morning ride which, as Robert claimed, ran us around our elbow to get to our, ahh, backside, we arrived at the Dade Battlefield Historic Park State in Bushnell, FL.

On December 23, 1835, 108 American soldiers, led by Major Francis Dade, marched out from from Fort Brooke (in what is now Tampa) to reinforce the garrison at Fort King (present day Ocala). On the sixth day of their march, the detachment was attacked by a band of Seminole Indians under the command of Chief Alligator. Only three soldiers survived the attack. So began the Second Seminole War. The war lasted seven years and resulted in almost all Seminoles being rounded up and sent to Oklahoma.


The Dade Battlefield Park site on the exact site of this battle. Each year for the past 29 years, on the first weekend after December 28, the park hosts a reenactment of the event. There are also numerous displays of historical artifacts of the period and lectures, as well as both military and Indian encampments open for public view.

All-in-all, it was an enjoyable and educational visit. I took quite a few photographs to document the event, but discarded most of the after seeing those taken by Boyd. Mine were taken with a "point and shoot" camera which is obvious when compared to Boyd's. Anyway, I hope you enjoy our efforts.

Check out Boyd's photos here.

Click here for Gunny's photos.

Also, be sure to check out J.T.'s blog.

December 26, 2009 - Polk City & San Antonio

There were only five of us gathered for our weekly ride this Boxing Day morning. The 50 degree temperature and family obligations undoubtedly contributed to the low turn out. After a good breakfast we bundled up against the cold and set out to explore the roads around Polk City.

For three of us (Boyd, J.T, and I), the cold was eased buy our new hi-viz, 3/4 length Tourmaster Transition 2 jackets. We had picked these up on sale at Champions Powersports last Saturday and they easily handled the cold, even without the zip-out quilted liner. We'll have to save those liners for sometime when it really gets cold.


Anyway, the morning ride took us east towards Polk City, then south past Lake Tennessee, between Lake Juliana and Lake Arietta then north past Little Lake Agnes.

It was about here that Robert succumbed to the cold and headed for home. The remaining four motorcycles turned east, heading over to Bay Lake and Lake Camp along Old Lake Alfred Road where we again turned north, passing Gum Lake on CR-557. We picked up Haines City/Polk City Rd. for the 5.5 mile run to the east end of Lake Lowery Road.

This is a nice piece of back country road that would appear to lend itself to some aggressive riding, but be warned. The road twists and turns through sandy highlands which results in an occasional coating of light sand on the curves. Have fun, but be vigilant.

The last leg of the morning ride took us through the University of Florida Experiment Station, then north to run across Fussell Road and finally into Polk City, some 78 miles from our starting point.

We stopped for lunch at Country Angels. This unpretentious little restaurant sits on S-33 in Polk City. You have probably passed it many times without realizing it was there, but the food is good and plentiful and worth the stop if you find yourself in the area at meal time.

After lunch, Kyle decided to head for the warmth of home while Boyd, J.T. and I continued on for the afternoon ride. Turning northwest, we headed for the hills and roadways around San Antonio. We added another 121 miles to the bikes before returning to our respective home a little after 3:00 p.m.

It was another great day with good friends, good roads, good food and great conversations. Join us next time. Also, be sure to check J.T.'s Blog. He wore out several batteries taking photos.

RIDE WITH PRIDE

Gunny

December 18, 2009 - Christmas Social

About 25 members and spouses gathered at Ace's home to celebrate the season with food, entertainment and libation. Unfortunately, I forgot to bring my camera and my words are insufficient to describe the excellence of the meal. While the food was very good, the highlight of the evening was a series of slide show presentations produced by Bill ,complete with music, depicting many of our motorcycle adventures of the past year as well as his visits to Tampa and Miami for KISS concerts. It was truly and exceptional presentation and I, for one, am anxious to purchase a copy.

Thanks to all who brought food and especially to Bill and Mercy for all of their hard work and for opening their home for the occasion.

December 19, 2009 - Champions

It was exactly 52 weeks ago when , on a trip to Champions of Leesburg, that Boyd and Loyd brought home their much loved V-Max and Goldwing. Today, we planned a return visit for the Grand Opening of their new dealership, Champions Powersports, in Eustis. With that vision dancing in our heads, nine of us met for breakfast at Snellgroves before starting the journey.

After breakfast, six of us prepared to ride while three members headed off to other duties.

Our route today took us north by northeast across Rockridge, Green Pond and CR-561. Always an enjoyable ride. After a brief comfort stop at 561 and US-27,

we returned to the road with the intent to again pick up 561. However, as we approached the intersection on 27, we found the road to be closed. Although we did not know why at the time, I later learned that that a vehicle had crashed and burned at the overpass of the Florida Turnpike, causing severe damage to the bridge and the closing of the northbound lanes of the Turnpike as well as CR-561. Bummer. That is a great piece of road for a motorcyclist. So, we continued north on 27 to SR-19, then on into Eustis on US-441 to our destination.

Upon entering the parking lot, Boyd caught sight of a parked vehicle that he wanted to investigate - a white Stallion.


This unusual 3-wheeler comes complete with an enclosed cockpit and automotive-type controls. Very cool.


Moving inside of the new Champions showrooms reveals an absolutely huge selection of motorcycles, ATVs and even a few watercraft.

They even had a 2010 version of the V-max on display. We all agreed that we liked the black paint of the 2009 better.


The accessories area, while not huge, was packed with some exceptional values. Champions took their Grand Opening sale seriously!


On our way out, Bob K. and Lloyd stopped for "Monster" tattoos on their pates. If you look closely, you can make just make out the tattoos. No, not there - on their heads!

After the photo, the boys introduced Boyd to the ladies by his nickname, Mr. Sarcasm. Unfortunately, one of the ladies misunderstood the name. Let's just say that he may now also be addressed as "Mr. O."

As it was now getting late, we decided to head home by the quickest route and our story would have ended here if it were not for a decision to stop for a late, quick lunch at the McDonald's in Groveland. What a disaster. The service was so poor that three of our group canceled their orders after a 20 minute wait for their food and went home hungry. When J.T. had the temerity to ask about the delay, he was told to calm down and wait for his order. We will not be back. One sour note to an otherwise glorious day.

Click here for our route to Champions Powersports.

Hope to see you all for our next ride.

Ride With Pride,

Gunny.

December 12, 2009 - Sky & San Ann

Although the weather looked threatening this morning, the forecast indicated we would be alright if we did not venture too far north. With that in mind, we gathered as usual this morning in Plant City. Nine of our group caught up on the week's activities over breakfast. Afterward, two left the group for other activities while the remaining seven mounted up for the day's ride.

After a quick stop at the PD for Bill to handle some "chief" stuff, we took off for Sky Powersports in Lakeland to check out the sale they were having. I happened to see Bobby deep in conversation with a salesman about the "Buy One, Get One Free" special they were having on ATV's. He soon left the group without explanation and headed back towards Plant City. Was he purchasing Christmas gifts for himself and Bill?

We were soon done at Sky and turned our motorcycles towards the hills and curves around San Antonio, FL, enjoying a couple of our favorite roads along the way. Around 11:00 a.m., we stopped for rest and fluids at the San Ann Market. The laid back atmosphere and shaded courtyard always make this location a pleasant stop.

Leaving the San Ann Market, we headed for some of the great roads in the area, including Pasco Rd., Bellamy Brothers Blvd., Bayhead Rd., Powell, Hayman and Tribly.

By 1:00, we were in Dade City where the group split up. Boyd and I opted to stop for lunch at Kafe Kokopelli while the rest of the group headed for home.

This was my first trip to Kokpelli's. I found the archtecture and decor to be very interesting and the food to be excellent.

Continuing with the ride, Boyd and I headed back north to pick up CR-575 into Lacoochee, up to SR-50, through the Withlacoochee State Forest to Sloans Ridge and Lake Erie, then down to Green Pond and home.

Somewhere on Rockridge Road, just west of Green Pond Rd., the odometer on my GL1800 rolled over 60,000 miles.

I stopped to take a picture of the odometer on this momentous occasion,.

To see our entire 178 mile route, click here.

Ride With Pride!

Gunny

December 5, 2009 - The Ride That Wasn't

Arriving out side the Whistle Stop in Plant City this morning there was not a single motorcycle insight, not even my own. All eight of us on hand chose covered conveyances this morning due to the current and forecast rains and cold temperatures. Call us wimps if you will, but we have all earned our Wet Wheels Awards in the past and felt no need to prove our manhood again today.

So our Saturday morning consisted of breakfast and conversation at Snellgroves and tentative plans for future rides. We will try again next Saturday. Hope to see you then.

Ride With Pride

Gunny

November 28, 2009 - A Florida Winter Ride

Nine of us met as usual in front of the Whistle Stop this cloudy, cool morning. As four of our group were there just for breakfast, we decided to walk across the street to Snellgrove's rather than riding to another breakfast location. After the usual mix of food, friends and conversation, five of us (J.T., Debbie, Boyd, Bob K. and I) suited up for the first cold ride of the season. The temperature was somewhere in the mid-40's when we left Plant City to explore west central Florida.

Our travels took us 188 miles through six different counties, including Hillsborough, Pasco, Hernando, Sumpter, Lake and Polk. We explored Thonotosassa, the entire length of Morris Bridge Road through the Lower Hillsborough Flood Detention Area to Zephyrhills. From there, we made our way past St. Leo to Jessamine Road, and over to Bayhead Road and Hayman Rd. We made our first rest stop of the day at Spring Lake Hwy. and SR-50. After that brief stop, we continued north via some new and some previously traveled roads until we reached the area near Nelson Lake. From there, we turned southeast to Bushnell then Webster.

Our complete outbound route can be see here.

We stopped for lunch at Hayseed Cafe in downtown Webster. This unpretentious eatery serves a great buffet of home-cooked foods at very reasonable prices.

After a good lunch, we turned towards home, sort of. We first made a detour up to Center Hill because there was what appeared to be an interesting piece of highway shown on Google Maps running between CR-469 and SR50 that I wanted to explore. Arriving at the northern end of CR-736, we noticed a warning sign informing us that 736 was a dead end road. From past experience, I have learned to believe the sings over the maps so we skipped that exploration, although I would like to take a first hand look at some time in the future. We headed over to the always interesting Sloan's Ridge Road, then over to Empire Church Road which took us across the southern edge of Groveland to SR-33. A short trip on 33 brought us to Pine Island Road which, in turn, took us to CR-561 and back to 33. It was then over to Green Pond Road and Rockridge Road for a fun run through the woods on the southern edge of the Green Swamp. After a brief fuel stop at Rockridge and US-98, we all headed for home.

Click here for our return route. Also, be sure to check out A Knight's Travels for some pictures and J.T.'s account of the ride.

Come join us next Saturday for another interesting ride. I don't know where we will be going yet, but you can bet that the ride will be interesting.

Ride With Pride!

Gunny

November 21, 2009 - Tiki Time

Another gorgeous day in central Florida started with breakfast for 10 at Snellgroves. It should have been 11, but Barry had an unfortunate encounter with a broken bag of cement on the highway yesterday. His motorcycle is a little scratched up, but otherwise okay. Unfortunately, Barry suffered some minor injuries to his hand/wrist which prevented him for riding today.

Since today's original destination, the Ozello Trail, was intended to introduce Barry to that great piece of Florida highway, we decided to save it for another day when he could join us. Instead, we turned north east, heading for the Tiki Bar at the Lake Minneola Inn. But, as every biker knows, the destination is only an excuse to seek out some good roads. With that in mind, we headed out for one of my favorite rides via Old Dade City Road, Lakeland Acres, Sherrouse, Rockridge, and Green Pond.

Upon reaching SR-33 and Lake Erie Rd., Bill decided to stop at the old fire tower for a look-see. Fortunately for the rest of us it was condemned, closed, ready to be torn down and carted away. Were it not, I am sure that Bill would have tried to coax us to climb the stupid thing. Anyway, it I'm sorry to see it go because it served as a landmark for Lake Erie Rd.

Leaving the fire tower, we headed across Lake Erie on the way to Sloan's Ridge for a few more rural twisties before heading for a quick down 561 to a short stop on Sugarloaf Mountain. From there, we headed back to 455 and Montverde. After passing through the grounds of the picturesque Montverde Academy, we headed towards Minneola and the Tiki Bar.

Chances are that if you have never been to the Lake Minneola Inn or been given very good directions, you are not going to find this little gem hidden away on the east shore of the lake. Even if you passed by the Inn itself, you would not see the separate Tiki Bar which is screened from the road by huge, old live oak trees. Be not discouraged, however. It is worth the effort to locate.

The Tike Bar has indoor seating at the open wall bar and outdoor tables on what used to be the water's edge. I say "used to be" because the water level in the lake is quite low right now, leaving the Inn's docks high and dry. But, the water view was still pleasant and we chose the outdoor seating.

While we were there, we were treated to a couple of interesting sights. First, a boater trying to reach the restaurant ran his craft aground in the shallow water. We, of course, considered going to his aid, but that would have involved wet feet and trousers so he was on his own. The second. and far more interesting sight, was the arrival overhead of two seaplanes. We watched as one-by-one, they circled to land on the lake in front of us. They then taxied up to the shore then rolled up onto the beach. Pretty cool.

After a great lunch washed down with $1.oo drafts, we returned to the bikes to continued the day's journey. Following the lake shore over to 561, we turned south towards SR-33. From there, we returned for Green Pond Road for a spirited run through it's many curves. As it was by then mid-afternoon, we turned out bikes towards home and the end of another great day of riding.

Click here for a selection of photos from this ride.

Click here for the complete route.

Also, be sure to check out "The Navigator's Rides" and "A Knight's Travels" from the links on the right side of this page.

See you next week for another adventure.

Ride with Pride!

Gunny

November 14, 2009 - Yoder's, Sarasota

Six of us (J.T., Lloyd, Boyd, Robert, Scott, and I) met outside the Whistle Stop in Plant City this morning and rode to Tim's Restaurant in Keysville for breakfast, where Bob K was waiting for us. Tim's used to be a frequent stop for us, but it fell out of favor a year ago due to diminished quality. Based upon a good report from Paul Richter, we decided to give it another try. We were not disappointed. The food was very good and plentiful.

Leaving Tim's, we turned south on Keysville Road heading for one of my favorite views of backwoods Florida - Jameson Road which runs along the north edge of the Alifia River State Park. We then headed south to Fort Lonesome via CR-39. Now, I generally find 39 to be a very straight, boring ride, but alternative routes through the phosphate mines are not always available. Today, we decided to turn west to Grange Hall Loop to explore a different route south. Following Grange Hall Loop to Keene Road and Taylor Grade Road, we were able to make our way to SR-62 across some more interesting motorcycle roads.

We then headed to our next stop in Myaka City via 62, Duette and Myaka-Wachula. After a brief stop at the only gas station and store in Myaka City, we set out to complete the trip to Sarasota and Yoder's Amish Restaurant.

Click here for a complete map of our route to Yoder's.

I think that this was a first visit to Yoder's for everyone. It is a relatively small place, staffed by friendly, helpful people (many of whom are named Yoder). And the food? Let's just say that Robert observed that it was obvious that none of the food was "institutional". While Robert enjoyed a delicious hot beef sandwich and mashed potatoes, the rest of us, still full from breakfast, went straight for Yoder's specialty - the pies. They have a huge selection of homemade pies, both cream filled and baked, and all agreed that they were excellent. We quickly concluded that this was a "must return" location. Next time, however, we will make it a brunch stop so as not to limit our enjoyment of their fare.

After a quick visit to the gift shop where the thoughtful among us picked up something for their wives, we headed back towards Plant City. Scott, Bob K. & Robert opted to take I-75 while the rest of the group took a more leisurely trip via the back roads.

Today, we covered 180 miles of enjoyable roadway, discovered some new pieces of pavement, re-experienced a discarded eatery, found and new favorite and thoroughly enjoyed the company of good friends.

Come and join us next Saturday for a visit to the Ozello Trail.

Also, check out J.T's Blog for his account and pictures.

Gunny

November 7, 2009 - Running with Elks

We are back! I apologize for the long absence of contributions to this blog but, as you know, I have been unable to ride the Chapter for a month due to other commitments.

We got back in the swing this week with breakfast for 12 at Snellgroves. After the usual camaraderie and conversation, ten of us mounted up and headed over to the Plant City Elks to participate in their poker run in support of Bay Area veterans. Unfortunately, on the way over Lloyd fell prey to a stomach condition that has plagued him for several weeks and headed for home. We all hope he gets over the problem real soon.

After completing the registration process, we hung around the Elks Lodge for a while drinking coffee, talking with other participants, admiring some of the other bikes and scratching our heads over a couple of bikes while wondering why anyone would ride something like that (I'm sure the Navigator will have a photo or two to explain).

When the appointed hour arrived, we all mounted up and headed to our first stop of the day - Big Dog's Patio on N. Palmer in Plant City. I drew a 10 of clubs and headed back to my bike confident that all things were still possible.

For our next stop, we took the back route to the Elks Lodge on Harden Blvd. in Lakeland. Here, I drew a 3 of hearts. Okay, a flush, straight and straight flush are now out of the question, but still a good hand was possible.

The next leg of the run took us on a tour of Lakeland, around Lake Hollingsworth, then up to Hooters at US-98 and I-4. Intent on improving my poker hand, I ignored the "scenery" and headed straight to the poker table where I drew a 7 of spades. With a sinking feeling, I realized that my best possible hand now was an outside shot at 3 of a kind. Bummer.

Anyway, it was back to the bike where a check of the scheduled route for the next leg to the Keel 'N Curley Winery took us far north on US-98 through heavy traffic and many traffic lights. After consulting with the rest of the group, we decided to go off the chart and ride some better roads to the Winery. We had a few tag-a-longs who had begun to follow our lead on the routes and they were treated to some of the better roads in the area., roads that they would have otherwise not seen.

We soon arrived at the Winery for the fourth card in our poker hands. Alas, the 5 of spades I drew was of no help, leaving me with hopes of no better than a pair of tens.

So it was that we headed back to the Plant City Elks Lodge with low poker expectations but high hopes for a good lunch. Both expectations were soon realized. But, hey, I still had tickets in my pocket for the 50-50 drawing and door prizes.

While we waited for the rest of the riders to return, Bill and I decided to visit Julie from the Tobacco Depot who had brought a nice selection of cigars to sell at the event. Choosing a couple of nice Cains, we adjourned to the shade of an old oak tree to enjoy our smokes. We were also joined by several other friends who participated in the conversation, if not the smoke.

After about an hour had passed and most of the other riders had returned, it was time to draw for the 50-50 and door prizes. Suffice it to say that although several members of our group were rewarded in the drawings, my luck continued to hold. I had to accept the hollow reward of having helped others with my donations.

So ended this week's ride. See you next week for another adventure. Meanwhile remember - "Not all who wander are lost."

RIDE WITH PRIDE.
Gunny

October 3, 2009 - Tarpon Springs

Eight of us met outside the Whistle Stop in Plant City this morning. The day started with a speech and special presentation by Bill McDaniel commerating his unique photo opportunity in Cades Cove, TN in June of this year. Click here to view the video.

After breakfast at Snellgroves, we bid farewell to Eddie & Bill who were off to barbeque some more ribs for an Elks Club fund raiser and to Robert wh had to complete his build of a new grill. The rest of us, Boyd, Lloyd, Scott, Bob K. and I, mounted up and headed out for the day's adventure.

The ride took us north to Zephyrhills, Dade City and San Antonio before turning west towards Tarpon Springs. Along the way we visited Pasco Road, a hidden gem just west of San Antonio. After a short stop in Land O' Lakes, we completed the run to the sponge docks. The complete route can be see here.

As can be seen from the photos, it was a near perfect day for our visit to this historic location. We had expected to find large crowds there on such a beautiful Saturday, but we had the place almost to ourselves. I guess the economy has hit tourism pretty hard. Hopefully, things will pick up for them as the snowbirds begin to return to the area.

After a tour of the area, we settled down for lunch a a local Greek restaurant. I had not had a good Greek meal since my days policing Greektown in Detroit, but the food here proved to be the equal of anything Detroit had to offer. We all had the Gyros sandwich and Greek salad. Excellent.

Before leaving Tarpon Springs, Bob K., a former resident, led us to Fred Howard Park situated on the Gulf of Mexico. Unfortunately, the Howard Parkway was closed for repairs so our view was shore bound.

We soon turned towards home and the end of another great day of riding. Be sure to come out and join us. For those members of our group who are headed to West Virginia next week, we wish you safe roads, great vistas and good times.

Ride with Pride

Gunny

September 26 - Multi-Chapter Breakfast

Nine bikes met in Plant City this morning in anticipation of participating in a multi-Chapter Blue Knights breakfast hosted by FL XXIX in Kissimmee. The plan was to avoid I-4 by taking SR-33 to Deen Still then up US-27 to US-192. However, as Robert Burns observed, "The best laid schemes o' mice an' men gang aft agley." In other words, the original plan went up in smoke and we were force to jump onto I-4 at SR-33 in order to make our 9:00 a.m. breakfast. And, arrive we did, just in time to greet Brian and Anne Collins as they arrived with their son and parents at the Sizzler.

Once inside, we met fellow Blue Knights from seven other chapters, including the Southern Regional Conference chairman, Alex Ramirez, from FL IV in Miami, then quickly move to the purpose for the visit - breakfast. The Sizzler had a nice selection for the buffet breakfast but, to be honest, The Market's food is far superior. But, for $4.99 per person, it wasn't bad.

After everyone had eaten their fill, FL XXIX's vice president, Ken O'Reilly, hosted a short program to introduce the dignitaries and host the drawing for the 50-50 prize and door prizes. Lucky Bill McDaniel won the 50-50 and Lloyd Lowery cashed in on two of the door prizes.

The gathering quickly broke up after the awards. Many of the other groups headed to the Lakeridge Winery, but we decided not to participate. While most of our chapter headed back to Plant City, Lloyd, J.T., Debbie & I decided to take a ride around eastern Polk County. However, as we turned onto Deen Stills from US-27, J.T. informed me that he and Debbie were going to head to Fun Bike Center to check out some new tires before the West Virginia trip. So, Lloyd and I continued on with the ride. There are some very nice motorcycle roads in the area east of Polk City and we enjoyed them greatly. Click here to see our route for the day.

After stopping for refreshment at The Country Angel in Polk City, Lloyd and I decided to end the day with a good cigar so we headed to the Cigar Castle in Temple Terrace. We finally made it home again about 4:00 p.m., having covered about 200 miles.

Hope we see you next week.

Ride With Pride

Gunny

September 19, 2009 - Englishmen and Monkeys

This day started a bit earlier than normal. We were expecting visitors from England VI, Brain and Anne Collins, and I had agree to meet them at Eddie Richter's at 7:30 a.m. to pick up Eddie's Gold Wing for them to use on today's ride. They arrived on schedule and, after a quick familiarization with the Wing (Brian normally rides a BMW), the four of us set off for Plant City.

We were met downtown by Ace, Preacher, Kent, Kyle, Robert, Stats, Doc and his wife. After a good breakfast and great conversation, we headed for Homosassa via San Antonio and Brooksville by the route seen here.

During our rest stop in Brooksville, our visitors told us how amazed they were by how straight our roads are here. Apparently, in the UK, straight, wide roads are far and few between. Geeze, I picked the the most curves I could find! Oh well, you know the motorcyclist's mantra about Florida - 11 curves in 318 miles.

Passing through Yulee, I decided to stop to show our visitors what passed for Florida antiquity, the Yulee Sugar Mill. In hindsight, I should have just kept going. The parking lot is dirt and appeared to be wet. As I moved over to make room for the others, I found that it was more than wet. It was a half inch of sand soup over a hard surface. When I attempted to move back towards the roadway, the rear tire decided to go for a ride in the other direction and over it went. Now understand, I would not normally be so forthcoming about this incident, but Ace has photographic proof and I know that he will be sharing it with you all in the near future. Luckily, the only damage was to my pride.

We next covered the last mile or two to the Riverside Crab House on the Homosassa River. Turns out it was Ebony's birthday, one of the five monkeys on Monkey Island, just off shore from the restaurant, and they were giving free boat rides around the island. Ace, Brian, Anne and I took advantage of the opportunity while they other landlubbers stayed ashore.

During lunch, Anne and Brian had a chance to sample American style fish and chips. Let's just say they offered to show us what real fish and chips are like should we ever visit the UK. Personally, I thought they were pretty good. What do they know. I mean, Brian was trying to convince me that steak and kidney pie was actually good! Go figure.

Leaving the restaurant, a few members of the group emphasized the fact that the Gators and Vols were scheduled to play at 3:30 p.m. so we headed back for Plant City by the most expeditious, non-expressway route.

Back in PC, Preacher and I accompanied Ace and our visitors for a tour of the Plant City police facility.

Eight and a half hours and 180 miles from the day's start, we said goodbye to our visitors and headed for home happy from a good ride and good friends, old and new. See you next time.

Gunny

September 5 - Wild Turkey Hunting

You know its going to be a good morning when you run out of parking spaces for motorcycles. Thirteen motorcycles lined up next to the Whistle Stop in preparation for breakfast and today's ride. Robert was welcomed back with his newly repaired Harley. Scott brought a guest with him and Eddie's wife, Marlena, joined us to make it 14 for breakfast at Snellgroves. After the usual breakfast and scintillating conversation, we mounted up to make our way to Avon Park in search of Wild Turkey.

We turned south out of Plant City heading for Keysville then on to Jameson Road. We made a quick stop on the bridge over the South Prong of the Alifia River. This is one of my favorite spots as it is a pastoral vision of old Florida. Today, we found the bridge to have been liberally adorned by local graffiti artists expressing their particular cultural views.

Leaving Jameson, we headed towards Agricola Mine Road via Fort Lonsome, Bethlehem Road and Brewster. Ah, Agricola. One of the few truly great motorcycle roads in central Florida. As usual, Bill stopped to take some action photos along the way and Boyd had to play up and down the highway until he found the absolute edge of the V-Max's ability. Now folks, I gotta tell you, I rode that beast for a short while last week and I can tell you that it runs a straight line as good as any motorcycle ever made, but it resists handlebar pressure like a stationary bike. I mean it absolutely does not like to lean over. Boyd has my admiration for his ability to force that monster to corner the way he does.

Our next stop was for fuel and refreshment at the Sunoco station in Fort Meade, about 60 miles from our start. We were now down to nine motorcycles as four had dropped out for various reasons. Fellas, I want you to know that we appreciate your presence even if you cannot complete a ride. Ride along for as long as you can. If you cannot ride, join us for breakfast. We are happy to see you.

The next leg was a 50 mile run past Lake Buffum to Babson Park, Frostproof and Avon Park. We arrived at our destination, the Wild Turkey Tavern, shortly after noon to enjoy their unique atmosphere, friendly service and excellent food. Bill took a lot of photos for his blog so be sure to check there when he updates The Navigator's Rides.

After lunch, we started the return trip via Avon Park Cuttoff, Lake Hendry Road and 640. After cutting up Bonnie Mine Road to 60, we headed west. At Mulberry, Boyd and I headed for Lakeland while the rest of the crew headed for Plant City. Go to Google Maps for a view of our complete route.

It was another great day of riding in central Florida. Thanks to all for your company and support. See you next week.

By the way, Bill says that he will have a special presentation to make at next Saturday's breakfast. Be there if you can.

Gunny

August 29, 2009 - Bayport

In hopes of a dry day and a good ride, eleven of us met for breakfast at Snellgroves this morning. After a good breakfast and better conversation, nine of us mounted our motorized steeds and headed northwest towards the once thriving bootleggers paradise of Bayport, Florida. As you are aware, however, I seldom take a straight route when a more interesting route is available. Click here to see today's route.

Along the way, three more riders who had other pressing business, drop out of the ride and headed home. By the time we made out first rest stop at the BP station at Ehren Cutoff Road and US-41, there were six bikes left - Boyd, Bob, Eddie, J.T., Lloyd and myself. After a brief stop, we again headed northwest. Despite assurances from the weatherman, we watched as dark clouds build up along our route. The rain finally his for only a brief period as we were westbound on Peace Blvd. Luckily, it was not enough to dampen our spirits or even our clothes.

Once east of US-19, the geography changed to salt marsh. The views were great and the salt smell in the air was refreshing as we passed through Lake Baywood, Aripeka, Sunset Island, Hernando Beach and Weeki Wachee Gardens. We finally turned east on Cortez Blvd. for the last leg of our morning run. As we were a little early for lunch, we decided to head to Bayport Park and the eastern terminus of Cortez Blvd. It is a pretty little park that rebuilt after the hurricanes of '04 and '05. It is a favorite launching point for boats heading out into the Gulf of Mexico. It was also here that, during Prohibition, savvy locals collected the barrels of whiskey that rum runners dumped into the gulf for the tides to carry to shore.

Leaving this picturesque place behind, we retraced the two miles to the Bayport Inn. This old restaurant, motel combination is easy to miss, but you would be sorry to do so. Not surprisingly, there were a good number of motorcycles in the parking lot and the atmosphere inside was very laid back and casual. At first glance the fare appeared to be a bit expensive for our tastes, but then we noticed the all-you-can-eat fish and fries for $8.95. All six of us decided to give it a try. All six of us were very glad that we did. The portions were more than generous and the taste was excellent. The first serving was enough for most of us, but Boyd, who was not hungry when we arrived, decided to order a second round of fish. Although he requested just a couple of more pieces, the waitress brought him a basket with more fish than the first serving. On top of that, the fish tasted even better. We know because Boyd had no hope of finishing it himself and shared it around the table. We will have to return again some day.

Waddling back to the bikes, we headed east towards Brooksville, then south towards Powell to pickup a few of our favorite roads (Culbreath, Hayman, Bayhead and Bellamy Brothers) on the way home. By the time we reached San Antonio, we needed another rest break and stopped at the San Ann Market, always a pleasant stop.

From San Antonio, we made a quick run home, arriving about 4:00 p.m. Great day. Great friends. Great ride. Great food.

Be sure to check out the photos on our web album.

Ride with Pride

Gunny

August 22, 2009 - Mt. Dora

Great turn out for breakfast this morning. If my count is right, there were 16 shoehorned in Snellgroves for food, conversation and camaraderie. As usual, there were a number of people who showed up for breakfast who were not able to go on the ride. That is a good thing since we would rather have their company for breakfast only than for them to not come at all.

Later, ten people on eight bikes headed for Mt. Dora where Bill had an appointment for service on his V-Strom. The route took us around the outskirts of Lakeland, across Rockridge and Green Pond then north on 33 to Groveland. After a quick stop for gas, Bill and Boyd took off for Champion Kawasaki so Bill could make his appointment on time. The rest of us followed at a more leisurely pace.

Arriving at the dealership, we spent some time checking out the machines on the showroom floor. Since it was to take two hours for Bill's service, Bill, Boyd, Bob and I decided to go across the street to Chili's for lunch. The other for bikes and riders decided to head for home to try to beat the oncoming rain. And a hard rain did come while we were eating lunch. Luckily we had plenty of time to wait it out. We made it back to the dealership, still dry, about the the Bill's bike was finished.

We quickly mounted and headed towards home. Although it started to rain again soon after we left, the rain stopped by the time we reached 561 and did not start again until we reached Lakeland. At that point, the remaining group broke up and we all headed for home.

It was a good ride in spite of the weather. See you next week.

Gunny