| Event and Description | Date |
|---|---|
| Calendar Test | 1167264000 |
| Just a test to see if the calendar is working. | |
| Reiner Bauer's Birthday | 1168732800 |
| Happy Birthday Reiner!!!! | |
| SSBMW Slide Show | 1172275200 |
| SSBMW is hosting a slide show by Werner Bausenhart at 7pm. |
|
| Test for Tina | 1172448000 |
| Hi Tina | |
| Hi Tina Again | 1172534400 |
| Seems to work to me | |
| March Meeting | 1172966400 |
| 4 March, 10:00 AM Tumwater Bar & Grill 4611 Tumwater Valley Dr. SE Olympia WA 98501 |
|
| SSBMW Vender Fair | 1174089600 |
| SSBMW is holding their annual Vendor Fair. Please check out their web site for further info. |
|
| Ride West BMW Slide Show | 1174521600 |
| Ride West BMW is holding a Slide Show - Iron Butt Assoc. Rider. Please check out their web site for info on reservations. |
|
| Globeriders Event | 1175299200 |
| This is a cut and paste from Mike Paull: GlobeRiders and Touratech are pleased to announce completion of the GlobeRiders Silk Road DVD, produced by Helge Pedersen and Sterling Noren. Touratech will host a Premier Showing Event at their headquarters on Airport Way in Seattle, WA, on SAT 31 MAR 2007 at 6:00PM. At the Event: - GlobeRiders Videographer Sterling Noren will present a one-hour overview of the 2-disc, 4-hour DVD set, and talk about what it takes to single-handedly script, shoot, edit and render such an ambitious undertaking. - GlobeRiders Founder Helge Pedersen will give a a one-hour photo/video presentation of the recent CAN2MEX ride that he participated in with Touratech Founder Herbert Schwarz (Touratech will also be releasing a CAN2MEX DVD). - Refreshments will be served. Admission to the event is $10.00, and will be handled via online registration on the Touratech-USA website, I'll forward this link the list when it is active. The DVD will also be available for sale for $39.95, however, if you order at the same time that you register for the event, you'll receive a $10.00 discount, essentially meaning your admission is free! Registration will be limited to 100. Thanks and Regards, Mike M. Paull GlobeRiders, LLC Seattle, Washington USA http://www.globerid ers.com <http://www.globerid ers.com/> "The world is a book and those that do not travel, read only a page." - St. Augustine "... not all who wander are lost." - J. R. R. Tolkien |
|
| April Meeting | 1175385600 |
| Sunday, 4/1/2007: WSBMWR Breakfast at Ride West -- no foolin. Ride West BMW 8100 Lake City Way NE. Seattle, WA. 98115 1-206-527-5511 or 1-888-527-RIDE |
|
| Easter Ride | 1175817600 |
| This ride is only for the brave as every year it is different. We try to follow that sunny window of opportunity in the sky but sometimes it just turns out to be a sucker hole! As Easter approaches we will make the decision to go through central WA or head straight for the Coast. Stay tuned for more info. This is not a club santioned event, but more a traditional Canadian ride. Everyone is welcome to join in. Also, we try to ride close to the I5 in case someone can come and ride for just a day or two and not the whole 4 days, and needs to scoot home. Tina We will be staying at the Super 8 on Canyon Road right up from the Chevron gas station in Ellensburg, WA, Thursday evening and will meet at the Chevron Friday am 8:30ish. From here we will head south and weather permitting will go through central Oregon. If the snow catches us we will return to the Gorge and go on over to the Coast and south from there. Any questions please email me at tina_yvr@yahoo.ca. Thanks. |
|
| Ride West Open House | 1176681600 |
| Ride West Open House. | |
| Rain Run | 1177718400 |
| 2007 Rain Run will take us to Manzanita, OR, just 10 twisty miles north of Rockaway Beach. There are going to be 3 suggested routes for the Rain Run day 1 leaving Hawks Prairie Inn. One will be the traditional route, second will be 'Smell the Roses' route, and the third will be the 'Iron Butt' route. There will be no leaders this year, however, there will be a lot of people riding that know the various routes. Also, I will have maps from 'Street's & Trips' for all these routes, to hand out. These routes will also be downloaded for anyone that has 'Streets & Trips'. Tina & Steve There will be a gathering on Saturday aft/eve at the Pine Grove Community House (right on themain street) which is walking distance from motels and ocean. There is a full kitchen here that can be used by attendees plus we will have a few snackies. Motels are reasonable and on the ocean. A couple of suggestions: Sunset Surf Motel, 1-800-243-8035 http://www.spindrift-inn.com/index.htm The meeting place Saturday morning will be the usual: Hawks Prairie Inn, 8306 Quinault Dr NE, Lacey, WA 98516 and we will have maps and suggested routes available then. Close by camping is at Nehalem Bay Campground, approx. 3 miles. Their # is 1-800-452-5687 for reservations, www.oregonstateparks.org |
|
| May Meeting in Winthrop | 1178409600 |
| The May meeting will be at the West end of town, at the park by the tourist info, look for the big barn. 12:00 noonish. Some members are planning to ride over on Saturday and stay the night. | |
| ERC Course | 1178928000 |
| Okay groovy guys and groovy gals, the long awaited Experienced Rider Course has been finalized and the check has been hand delivered to the Motorcycle Safety Course. Now here’s the Scoop: Date: Saturday May 12, 2007. This is the day before Mothers Day. The cost is $100.00. If we fill the class with 12 People, the Motorcycle Safety Course will refund $15.00 per person and if you pass the class, the Club will reimburse you $20.00. Doing the math, if we fill all 12 slots... or MORE, and you pass the class, it will only you cost $65.00 for a very fun and informative day. What better gift can you give your Mom? You can give her the security of knowing that you take yours and your loved ones safety to the maximum level. I know some of you are saying I really don’t need this class; I’ve been riding for years; I know what I’m doing. Get off that bandwagon and realize you have been off your bike for a while and you’re rusty. We can all use a refresher from time to time. Heck, I’ve been off my bike since December 22nd, as our bike has been in the shop. I picked it up February 16th and man, I felt like a new rider when I rode home. Maybe an article titled, “101 ways to drop your bike” will follow shortly. If you’ve been riding your bike everyday, day in and day out, you’ve probably picked up some bad habits. Please don’t be so proud as to say, “I know it all.” Come spend the day with all of us and learn how to be a safer and more effective rider. If you don’t want to do if for yourself, at least do it for your loved ones. If you would like to participate with us, please sign up at the next club meeting or send a check or money order to Shannon Gentry, Treasurer, at: Shannon M. Gentry 1887 Douglas Fir Ave Enumclaw WA 98022 Come on people; let’s make this Motorcycle Safety Course have to bring in another instructor to accommodate all the people signing up. Thanks, Doug Gentry Member at Large |
|
| Maryhill/Deschutes Campout | 1179532800 |
| When: Saturday May 19 Where: Deschutes River State Park , near Biggs Oregon across the Columbia River from Goldendale, WA What: Camping with the Oregon State BMW Club. Historically this campout has been held at Maryhill State Park across the River in Washington. (It was already reserved this year) Camping/Motels: Campers will stay in the Group site at the State Park. There are motels in Biggs about 2 miles from the park Fees: None. Club pays campground Fees Why: This campout offers a variety of ways to get there. This truly is all about the ride. Even with the low snow levels there are some very creative twisty ways to get there. Check your Washington and Oregon maps closely. Enjoy the possibilities!!! (One Hint, Check out Horse Heaven between Bickelton and Richland) Web Site http://www.oregonstateparks.org/park_37.php The site includes directions. Questions: Contact Steve or Tina |
|
| Steamboat State Park Campout | 1181347200 |
| Campout at Steamboat State Park / Elec. City area. Check out this site: http://www.parks.wa.gov/parkpage.asp?selectedpark=Steamboat%20Rock&pageno=1 More info to follow: |
|
| On the way to Chief Joseph | 1181779200 |
| The club will pay for overnight camping at Maryhill State Park on the way to the Chief Joseph Rally, OR, Thursday evening. |
|
| Pend Oreille Campout | 1183161600 |
| I have reserved the group campsite at the Mt Linton RV & Trailer Park in Metaline, WA beginning on Sat, June 30. Club will pay for camping. There are showers, horseshoe pits, firepit in our site, electricity!, and some nice trees. I will post photos on web forum. Look to your left as you come into town from the south. Some of you may want to extend this weekend to July 4th and carry on up to the Kootenays in BC. More info to follow. Bill Vogan |
|
| Clinton, BC | 1184284800 |
| Lillooet Campground has been booked so we are moving this campout to Clinton, BC. We will be at the Clinton Pines Campground and the club will pay for camping on Friday and Saturday evenings. There is a motel within 5 minutes walking: Roundup Motel, 250-459-2226 or in town at Nomad 250-459-2214 This is very close to Lillooet and has a lot of off road and on road riding areas. On Saturday we will do our annual visit to Hell's Gate Tram and have lunch beside the Fraser River. The website may be down for maintenance early in the year, but shuld be up soon. http://village.clinton.bc.ca/ |
|
| Club Rally - Menlo | 1185408000 |
| Please see our front web page for more info. More will be posted here later. |
|
| Winthrop, WA | 1187913600 |
| Hopefully the weather gods will work with us this year and we will return to Winthrop for ice cream!! The Pine Near Campground in Winthrop has been closed permanently so we are moving to the KOA Campground just south of Winthrop. Here is the link: http://www.koa.com/where/wa/47145/ We will be at the group campsite and the club will pay for camping on Friday and Saturday evenings. It's a pretty long walk to Winthrop but if it's not too late, ice cream can still be a factor. As far as a chili cook out Saturday, I'm not sure on the availability of cooking areas, etc. There are motels close by in Twisp and in Winthrop. Tina and Steve :lol: |
|
| Wallowa , OR | 1188604800 |
| We have moved this campout up a bit this year to accommate the riders that don't like riding home in the pouring rain from this awesome destination. More to follow. |
|
| September Meeting | 1189296000 |
| 9:30am South Sound BMW 3605 20th Street E. Fife WA 98424 |
|
| Yakama Nation Campout | 1190419200 |
| We loved the campout last year at Yakima so have decided to revisit it again this year. More info to follow. Sorry for not posting sooner, guess I forgot maybe.......... We are camping at the Yakama Nation RV park in Toppenish. We have 3 or 4 teepees rented as well that you are welcome to sleep in. Reservations are for Friday and Saturday night and we will cook something great Saturday night. Any questions please email me at tina_yvr@yahoo.ca Thanks and let's all go sit by the campfire and kick tires!!!! Tina http://www.winesnw.com/YakNtnRVListing.htm Yakama Nation Resort RV Park 280 Buster Road (Map) Toppenish, WA 98948 Phone: 509-865-2000 or 800-874-3087 Fax: 509-865-1801 Email: reservations@yakamanation.com Home Web Page: www.yakamanation.com |
|
| Club Meeting for October | 1191715200 |
| French Creek Manor @ 9:30 | |
| Turkey Run/Chili feed | 1194134400 |
| Turkey Run, Chili Feed at Lynn and Dan's. |
|
| monthly meeting - Apogee Tavern @ 10:00 hrs PST | 1196560800 |
| Please be advised that the final WSBMWR Club meeting for Calendar Year (CY) 2007 will be held at 10:00 hrs PST on Sunday, 02 December 2007 at the: Apogee Tavern 14125 SE 171st Way Renton, WA 98058-8813 (425) 255-9174 N 47º 26.889’ W 122º 09.149 Elevation ~ 505 feet Please bring an unwrapped donation for the annual Toys-for-Tots Marine Christmas gift drive. Tom Burull is stilling hoping that we can get a couple of hulks in (Marine) parade dress uniform to pick up the usual pile of loot that our members contribute – if not, we will have to call in the Navy, or the Air Force… Some of the toys are so neat that I have a hard time keeping my hands off of the goodies. For those of you who have not attended a meeting at this location, finding the place can be a bit of a challenge. The Apogee Tavern is located in a small strip mall on the extreme SW corner of the Fairwood Golf and Country Club. Shown below are 2 different ways to get you within rifle shot of the tavern (some of these directions are from memory of a year ago and some were gleaned from Street Atlas USA 2008). From Hwy 405, take exit 4AB and go east 2.2 miles on Hwy 169 (Maple Valley Highway). At the intersection with 140th Ave SE turn right (only choice) and head South up the hill 1.7 miles. Once on top of the hill, hang an easy left (135º - going SE) onto SE 171st Way. The Apogee Tavern should be on your right about 400 feet down the street. From Highway 167 (East Valley Highway) take the eastbound S 43rd Street exit. Continue 3.1 miles East past the Valley Medical Center on S 43rd Street – which transitions into SE 176th Street and finally rebadges itself as SE Petrovitsky Road east of 116th Ave SE. At the intersection with 140th Ave SE turn North (left) and drive about ¼ mile turning SE onto the 1st road to the right (SE 171st Way). The Apogee Tavern should be on your right about 400 feet down the street. Following the meeting you may still have time to take in the final day of the 27th annual International Motorcycle Show (IMS) being held at the Quest Field Event Center. Show hours on Sunday are 09:30 hrs PST to 17:00 hrs PST. In years past, if you arrived on a motorcycle, you were allowed to park free in the covered parking area adjacent to the Event Center. Go to the IMS web site for additional information: http://www.motorcycleshows.com/motorcycles...l.jsp?id=358891 Ride West and South Sound BMW both are offering $2.00 off coupons to the event. I would suspect that most of the area motorcycle dealers probably provide a similar service. I will be looking forward to seeing you at the December meeting – bring a good appetite – and let’s hope that you will be the lucky winner of the 50/50 drawing this time. Should be a nice size pot. Grumpy Old John/eof |
|
| Winter Solstice | 1198195200 |
| Alright. No more grumping about the lack of daylight. Today marks the day at which the sun dips as far to the south as will ever get this year, aka, the Winter Solstice. The event officially occurs at 06:08 hrs UTC/GMT on Saturday, 22 December 2007 – or, to put that in Seattle time reference, 10:08 PM PST on Friday, 21 December 2007. Things are now all uphill wrt to increasing hours of daylight - not that you will see any significant difference for the next week or two. The Winter Solstice marks the mid-point in an eleven day period defining the 11 shortest days of the year wherein the sun rises at about 07:54 hrs PST and sets around 4:19 PM PST in the afternoon for a smashing 08:25 [hr:min] of daylight (when there is not 100% cloud cover to mask this massive amount of UV exposure). Just to make you feel really, really bad, at the Summer Solstice (about 20 June) there are 16:00 [hr:min] of daylight. Easy to remember at this latitude…at its peak in summer, there are only 8 hours of darkness while at the minimum in winter, there are only ~ 8 hours of daylight. Did you really need to know all of this? Grumpy Old John/eof |
|
| full moon | 1198368000 |
| @ 05:16 PM PST GOJ/eof |
|
| New Year's Day | 1199145600 |
| Happy New Year GOJ/eof |
|
| latest sunrises of the year - Seattle, WA | 1199145600 |
| The latest sunrises of the year occur in early January and late December @ 07:57 hrs PST (referenced to Seattle, WA). | |
| Earth at Perilelon (see notes below) | 1199232000 |
| Solar Orbits Perihelion – perigee (closest approach to the Earth – early January) 91 million miles = 146 million Km = 0.98 AU Note: AU = Astronomical Unit 1 AU = the average distance between the center of masses of the Sun and the Earth 1 AU = 93 million miles or 150 million Km This earth shaking event occurs at ~ 16:00 hrs PST (~ 4 PM). As the Earth's orbit around the Sun is nearly circular, the distance from the Sun only varies by +/- 2%. And, no, having the Sun at its closest point to the Earth has nothing to do with how warm or cold it will be - that is a function of the seasons (see Equinox/Solstice events). |
|
| Club meeting - Johnny's at Fife 10am | 1199577600 |
| Please be advised that the WSBMWR Club’s monthly meeting is scheduled for Sunday, 06 January 2008 at: Johnny’s at Fife 5211 - 20th Street East Fife, WA 98311 (253) 922-6686 N 47 deg 14.339 min W 122 deg 21.588 min at 10:00 hrs PST. We will be ordering off of a 'short' menu - like 4 basic breakfast menu choices... just like the last time we held a breakfast meeting at this location. The web site for this facility is: http://www.johnnysatfife.com/ Grumpy Old John eof |
|
| Snowcamp | 1200614400 |
| Location: Sahara Cr. Campground - approx. 6 miles east of Elbe on Hwy. 706. Watch for a small brown sign on the north side of the road, it is easy to miss. The camp is a 1/4 mile from the hwy. Facilities include 20-25 campsites, water, vault toilets fire pits, large picnic shelter and tables. No rv hook-ups but plenty of room for the largest rigs. There is no fee to camp but you must pack out your trash. Please bring some firewood if you drive. For more info call: Joe Rodgers: 253-312-5810cell. |
|
| Martin Luther King Day | 1200873600 |
| National Holiday USA | |
| full moon | 1200960000 |
| @ 05:35 AM PST GOJ/eof |
|
| Club meeting: French Creek Manor 10am | 1201996800 |
| Please be advised that the WSBMWR Club’s monthly meeting is scheduled for Sunday, 03 February 2008 at 10:00 hrs PST: French Creek Manor 9931 - 167th Ave S.E. Snohomish, WA 98290 1-800-605-4255 N 047 deg 54.400 min W 122 deg 00.423 min Elevation = 197 feet This will be a breakfast buffet event...just like the last time that we held our meeting here. A word to the wise: Time your bathroom breaks with care lest you be writing this event information sheet yourself next year. The web site for this facility is: http://www.frenchcreekmanor.com/ |
|
| Lincoln's Birthday | 1202774400 |
| born on Sunday, 12 February 1809 | |
| Valentine's Day | 1202947200 |
| ... lest you forget to shower your SO with ... GOJ/eof |
|
| 3rd Sunday Club Ride - Brian Gough ride leader | 1203206400 |
| Please join us for the Third Sunday Ride, February 17, 2007; our Grand Tour of Vashon Island. We will leave from Renton Shari's (I-405 exit 4, eastbound WA 169 Maple Valley exit) at 9am. Using small roads we will ride over the hills to Fauntleroy ferry, then spend much of the day exploring every interesting road we can find on the island. Between real estate/AAA maps and GPS routing (from others) we should see most of the island's best. Please have a full tank of gas before we leave Renton; there is limited gas on the island, quality of gas on the island may be open to question. We will probably have lunch at Bishop's restaurant. Watch Brian get lost, last time we did at least one road twice, but at a good speed! At least, there are only two ways to get off of the island, and Brian can find them. Breakfast starts about 8am if you want to join us. | |
| President's Day | 1203292800 |
| Federal Holiday GOJ/eof |
|
| full moon | 1203465600 |
| @ 07:30 PM PST GOJ/eof |
|
| Washington's Birthday | 1203638400 |
| born on Friday, 22 February 1732 | |
| bonus day - leap year | 1204243200 |
| Bonus day --> extra riding time Leap Year...2000, 2004, 2008, 2012, etc. you get the idea |
|
| Club monthly meeting: Putters Restaurant 9:30am | 1204416000 |
| Please be advised that the WSBMWR Club monthly meeting is scheduled for Sunday, 02 March 2008 @ 09:30 hrs PST (yup, Pacific Standard Time – daylight saving time (PDST) kicks in the following Sunday, 09 March 2008) and will be held at: Putters Restaurant & Lounge 2485 NE McWilliams Road Bremerton, WA 98311 (360) 377-7077 N 47º 37.277’ W 122º 36.982’ We will be ordering from a full/open menu; i.e., individual billing. The Restaurant is located on the north side of the Rolling Hills Golf Course. The Golf Course is located on the south side of NE McWilliams Road and just east of Highway 303 on the north side of Bremerton, WA. Most of us will be taking Highway 16 North from I-5 in Tacoma. Go north over the Tacoma Narrows Bridge (reference Doug Barritt’s article, “Bureaucracy at the Toll Booth”, on page 9 of the September, 2007 SHAFT (Volume 34, Number 9) on how to properly pay your $3.00 toll) and proceed to the little town of Gorst, WA located on the west end of Sinclair Inlet. I believe Highway 16 expires at that point and the road is relabeled as Highway 3. Hang a right and go NW up the north side of Sinclair Inlet. About 2.4 miles down the road you have two choices: 1) stay right and follow the north shore of Sinclair Inlet, then go north through downtown Bremerton on Highways 304, picking up 303 north to NE McWilliams Road, or 2) fork left and take the longer (and usually faster) route by staying on Highway 3 expressway and heading north to Silverdale on the north end of Dyes Inlet. If you elect option #2, go 9.6 miles north on Highway 3 and exit onto Highway 303 east (Waaga Way). Follow Highway 303 East and then South to NE McWilliams Road. Right on Captain! ‘Course, for those of you who can afford the fees, you could take the luxury route, namely the ferry run from Seattle to Bremerton. Or, go over using the land route and return using the ferry boat (or vice versa). Just money and/or time. Lots of choices. Bring your lucky rabbit’s foot or whatever talisman works for you to ensure that we all enjoy sunny weather for our ride to/from the monthly Club meeting (might even work for winning the 50/50 drawing too). |
|
| new (no) moon | 1204848000 |
| 09:14 AM GOJ/eof |
|
| South Sound BMW [Fife, WA] - Vendor Fair | 1204934400 |
| from an email of 08 January 2008... Here at South Sound BMW, we are already looking ahead to Vendor Fair 2008, set for March 8th. This will be the third year of our Fair, which promises to be larger than ever before. We incorporated a few twists of our own to ensure attendance by a varied crowd that remains invested in the event for the whole day. New additions include: • South Sound’s own bike giveaway of a G650 X-Challenge (must be present to win); • How-to seminars on GPS navigation, tire changing on the trail offered by a representative of BestRest products, and packing for a world tour by one of GlobeRiders’ own tour guides. • Additional vendors and on-site food Aaron Jennings Jennifer Shaffer South Sound Parts Manager South Sound Apparel Manager aaron@southsoundbmw.com jennifer@southsoundbmw.com GOJ/eof |
|
| Daylight Saving Time begins (see notes) | 1205020800 |
| On Sunday, 09 March 2008 @ 02:00 hours, Daylight Saving Time (DST) officially begins (and, no, it is not Daylight Savings Time). The old saw is "Spring ahead"; i.e., at 2 AM Sunday morning, move your clocks ahead 1 hour. Daylight Saving Time will revert back to Standard Time (ST) on Sunday, 02 November 2008 @ 2 AM. Grumpy Old John/eof |
|
| 3rd Sunday Club Ride - Brian Gough ride leader | 1205625600 |
| via. email from Brian Gough - posted on: Sun 02/10/08 03:53 PM March 16, 2008 I will lead the ride to the far north country, Sumas, where we will have brunch, if the locals haven't eaten everything ( I want to make it there about 1230pm) . I think we will have warmer (wet most likely) weather to explore the roads of Whatcom County. My original plan to do Camano island is postponed to May 18th. I think we will have a great time. Meet at Mitzel's at 128th SW exit from I-5 at 8 for breakfast, sidestands up at 9am. I will put this info in WSBMWR newsletter |
|
| Vernal Equinox - first day of Spring (see notes) | 1205884800 |
| Equinox – Vernal (Spring) & Autumnal (Fall) 1. On these days, the axis of the Earth and the axis of the Sun are parallel. 2. On these days, the Sun at noon lies directly above the Earth’s equator. 3. On these days, all points on the Earth receive approximately the same amount of daylight as they do darkness; i.e., 12 hours each. 4. On these days, the sun rises exactly in the East; i.e., 090º True. 5. On these days, the sun sets exactly in the West; i.e., 270º True. 6. On these days, the latitude of your current position can be determined by subtracting the Sun’s elevation angle at noon from 90º; i.e., at Sumas, WA on the US/Canadian border, the sun elevation angle at noon is 41º. Therefore, the latitude of Sumas, WA is 90º – 41º = 49º (North). 7. On these days, the maximum rate of change of daylight/darkness occurs (~ 4 minutes/day or 26 minutes/week at Seattle, WA). The first day of Spring kicks off at 22:48 hrs PDST (10:48 PM PDST). Grumpy Old John/eof |
|
| Easter Ride | 1206057600 |
We have changed this agenda due to snow. We will leave from the Comfort Inn, 4700 Park Center Avenue NE, Lacey, WA on Friday morning, March 21 at 8:30ish. Tina This ride is only for the brave as every year it is different. We try to follow that sunny window of opportunity in the sky but sometimes it just turns out to be a sucker hole! As Easter approaches we will make the decision to go through central WA or head straight for the Coast. Stay tuned for more info. This is not a club santioned event, but more a traditional Canadian ride. Everyone is welcome to join in. Also, we try to ride close to the I5 in case someone can come and ride for just a day or two and not the whole 4 days, and needs to scoot home. Tina We will be staying at the Super 8 on Canyon Road right up from the Chevron gas station in Ellensburg, WA, Thursday evening and will meet at the Chevron Friday am 8:30ish. From here we will head south and weather permitting will go through central Oregon. If the snow catches us we will return to the Gorge and go on over to the Coast and south from there. Any questions please email me at tina_yvr@yahoo.ca. Thanks. |
|
| Easter | 1206230400 |
| Easter Sunday does not occur at a fixed date each year; i.e., it is a 'moveable feast' day. The day is selected based on a range of Sundays occuring between 22 March and 25 April inclusive. It is set for the 1st Sunday after the first full moon on or after the vernal equinox. | |
| Club monthly meeting : Ride West BMW 9:30am | 1207440000 |
| Please be advised that the WSBMWR Club’s monthly meeting is scheduled for Sunday, 06 April 2008 at: Ride West BMW 8100 Lake City Way NE Seattle, WA 98115 (206) 524-5511 (800) 527-RIDE N 047 deg 41.303 min W 122 deg 18.640 min Elevation = 363 feet at 09:30 hrs PDST. The web site for this facility is: http://www.ridewest.com/ Grumpy Old John EOF |
|
| winter gasoline blend | 1208217600 |
| Today marks the first day to begin the phase out of winter blend gasoline to summer blend gasoline. Winter blend gasoline is to be phased out from the supply lines and storage facilities by 01 May. Winter blend gasoline has a higher RVP (Reid Vapor Pressure) than does the summer gasoline blend thus allowing higher volatility and easier engine starting at low temperatures. RVP is controlled by a number of factors but one of the more significant parameters is the amount of butane content in the overall blend (< 2% is summer blends). While most users get poorer gas mileage in the winter, the gasoline blend (energy content) is just one of many factors working against good fuel mileage. Low battery energy levels (more fuel energy going back into recharging the lead-acid battery), stiffer lubricants and increased warm up time all play a role. If the RVP was not lowered in the summer, gasoline boil-over, vapor lock and pressurized fuel tanks would be the result. So there. Now you know. Grumpy Old John/eof |
|
| Tax Day | 1208217600 |
| Final day to file (individual) Federal Income Tax forms. | |
| North Casecades Highway opening dates | 1208649600 |
| The median opening date for Washington State Route 20 (WA SR20), based on 36 years of data is 20 April. The earliest that the highway was opened was on Thursday, 10 March 2005. The latest date that the highway was opened was on Friday, 14 June 1974. In the previous 20 years (from 1987 to 2007), the latest that the pass was opened was 07 May (1997 & 2002). The probability of the highway being open vs. calendar date is shown below: Probability of Opening Date 50% 20 April 90% 10 May 95% 20 May 99% 29 June Weekly updates of the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) progress on opening this 36 miles of winter closed highway can be found here: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/Traffic/Passes/NorthCascades/2008/ GOJ/eof |
|
| 3rd Sunday Club Ride - Brian Gough ride leader | 1208649600 |
| WSBMWR Club 3rd Sunday ride - Brian Gough ride leader - breakfast @ 8 AM - ride @ 9 AM - "South Sound Backroads" Renton starting point - Shari's Restaurant - Exit 4 off of I-405 - Hwy 169 Maple Valley Highway - east side of freeway GOJ/eof |
|
| Rain Run | 1209168000 |
| 2008 Rain Run will take us to Manzanita, OR, just 10 twisty miles north of Rockaway Beach. There are going to be 3 suggested routes for the Rain Run day 1 leaving Hawks Prairie Inn @ 9:00am. One will be the traditional route, second will be 'Smell the Roses' route, and the third will be the 'Iron Butt' route. There will be no leaders this year, however, there will be a lot of people riding that know the various routes. There will be a gathering on Saturday aft/eve at the Pine Grove Community House (right on the main street) which is walking distance from motels and ocean. There is a full kitchen here that can be used by attendees. There will be a chili cook off lead by the HRF team. Motels are reasonable and on the ocean. A couple of suggestions: Sunset Surf Motel 1-800-243-8035 http://www.spindrift-inn.com/index.htm The meeting place Saturday morning will be the usual: Hawks Prairie Inn, 8306 Quinault Dr NE, Lacey, WA 98516. Close by camping is at Nehalem Bay Campground, approx. 3 miles. Their # is 1-800-452-5687 for reservations, www.oregonstateparks.org For those of you new to this ride, the club pays for rental of the Community House, the insurance for the house so that we can perhaps partake of various subsances and we will provide the ingredients for this chili cook off.  |
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| WA State Ferry System - Peak Fare Season Begins | 1209600000 |
| Just a head's up. The WA State Ferry System's "Peak Season" fares for the San Juan Island ferry runs traditionaly kicks in on the first of May. Peak Season fares are generally about 1/3 higher than non-peak season fares. For example, for the Anacortes to Friday Harbor run, prior to 01 May the fares are: (walk-on) passenger = $10.95, motorcycle + driver = $16.35. As of 01 May, these fares become $13.15 & $22.10, respectively. Peak Season ends (usually) on the 2nd weekend in October; i.e., this year regular ferry fares resume on Saturday, 11 October 2008. For those of you who plan to tour the San Juan Islands, it will cost you (and your trusty steed) about 6 bucks more by next weekend. Grumpy Old John/eof ____________________________________________________________________________ From --> http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries/fares ---> For additional information, please contact Susan Harris-Huether, Customer Information Manager, 206.515.3460 "On May 1, the peak season officially begins with an additional surcharge applied to fares for non-frequent users and a 2.5% rate increase for all ferry users. For example, the rate increase for a Bainbridge Island passenger increases from $6.50 to $6.70. The peak season surcharge, which only applies to vehicles and drivers, increase from $14.10 to $14.45. Check the ferries website at www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries/fares for more price changes. Also, on May 1, the prices for the Anacortes parking lot will be changed from winter rates to summer rates. Currently, rates range from $5 per day to $20 per week and $25 per month. On May 1, the prices will be as follows: $10 per day $20 for 48 hours/2 days $25 (for 72 hours/3 days $40 for one week /7 days $80 for a calendar month permit (plus tax) $325 for the season permit (plus tax) (5/1-9/30) $20 per 24 hours for RV’s For more information about parking, or to arrange for long term parking, contact 1-800-828-4197. A second vessel will also be added May 13, Mother’s Day, on the Port Townsend/Keystone route to help alleviate the building traffic on this route." ___________________________________________________ |
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| May Meeting In Winthrop | 1209859200 |
| The May meeting will be at the West end of town, at the park by the tourist info, look for the big barn. 12:00 noonish. Some members are planning to ride over on Saturday and stay the night. ******Please take note that if the Hwy. 20 pass is not open on this date we will all gather in Marblemount and go for lunch. I'll post the name of the restaurant and the directions closer to the date. Tina and Mike |
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| Deschutes/Maryhill Campout | 1210896000 |
| When: Friday May 16 Where: Deschutes River State Park , near Biggs Oregon across the Columbia River from Goldendale, WA What: Camping with the Oregon State BMW Club. Historically this campout has been held at Maryhill State Park across the River in Washington. Camping/Motels: Campers will stay in the Group site - G D - at the State Park. There are motels in Biggs about 2 miles from the park Fees: None. Club pays campground Fees Why: This campout offers a variety of ways to get there. This truly is all about the ride. Even with the low snow levels there are some very creative twisty ways to get there. Check your Washington and Oregon maps closely. Enjoy the possibilities!!! (One Hint, Check out Horse Heaven between Bickelton and Richland) Web Site http://www.oregonstateparks.org/park_37.php The site includes directions. Questions: Contact Mike or Tina |
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| 3rd Sunday Club Ride - Brian Gough ride leader | 1211068800 |
| WSBMWR Club 3rd Sunday ride - Brian Gough ride leader - breakfast @ 8 AM - ride @ 9 AM - "Grand Tour of Camano Island" South Everett starting point - Mitzel's Restaurant - 128th Street - Exit 186 off of I-5 - west side of freeway Chuck Mander (WSBMWR Club Member at Large) to lead Camano Island portion of the ride GOJ/eof |
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| Rally - 49er - BMW Northern California | 1211500800 |
| Unofficial date of the BMW Club of Northern California's 49er Rally. The Rally is usually held on Memorial Day weekend. Last year (CY2007) it was held at the Gold County Fairgrounds in Auburn, CA between 25 and 28 May. The Fairgrounds are open at 3 PM on the preceeding Thursday (22 May 2008) for early bird camping followed by early bird registration between 6 and 8 PM. The Club's web site is: http://www.bmwnorcal.org/. Hopefully more information will be available soon. GOJ/eof 21Dec2007 |
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| Memorial Day | 1211760000 |
| Federal Holiday GOJ/eof |
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| Vogan Acres Walleye Campout | 1212710400 |
| We are hosting a club campout on the noted dates. Hopefully the Walleye'll be bitin' and we'll have some fine fish to fry. Plenty of camping onsite. Directions and details will appear on forum and in Shaft as date approaches. Camping in field in front of house. Sanicans provided. Water available wo wash bikes and filtered demineralized water is available to drink. BBQ and Firepit area. Small boat to go fishing - if approved by Bill Nearest Motels - Kettle Falls, 13 miles Nearest grocery store - Kelle Falls People are welcome Thursday night. |
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| 3rd Sunday Club Ride - cancelled | 1213488000 |
| 3rd Sunday Club rides have been suspended until further notice GoJ |
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| Rally - Chief Joseph - BMW Riders of Oregon | 1213833600 |
| The BMW Riders of Oregon will again host their annual Chief Joseph Rally at the Grant County Fairgrounds in John Day, Oregon from Thursday, 19 June 2008 through Sunday, 22 June 2008. Details and registration information will be provided when available. The Club's website is: http://www.bmwro.org/. Our club will provide and pay for camping at the group campsite in Maryhill State Park on Thursday evening. |
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| Timberlake Campground - Stevenson | 1215129600 |
| We will be at Timberlake Campground/RV Park. More info to follow. Tina and Mike |
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| Rally - BMW MOA National - Gillette, WY | 1216252800 |
| Gettin' closer. Well, at least closer than West Bend, WI in CY2007 but probably never again as close as Spokane, WA. This year the rally will be held in the oil & coal boom town of Gillette, WY at the newly constructed Cam-Plex Multi-Event Facility just east of Gillette, WY [exit 129 off of I-90] from Thursday, 17 July 2008 through Sunday, 20 July 2008. The location of the Cam-Plex Facility/Rally site is N44° 16.802' x W105° 26.731'. Their website is: http://www.cam-plex.com. The address is: 1635 Reata Drive; Gillette, WY (307) 682-0552 if you want to make a run on over there and check it out. The facility is located on over 1,000 acres of land with a 21 acre park and picnic area. 1,761 RV sites with 30 and 50 amp hookups are available on site. Supposedly the buildings are air conditioned (I wonder why?). At this date a number of the motels are already booked. Motel 6 was already booked last summer @ $99.00/night - single occupancy. Super 8 Motel, when I checked a couple of weeks ago, want $189.95/night (single), and it had only one room left to reserve. The other dozen or so chain motel/hotels in the area are even more expensive I am told. Buffalo, WY is 74 miles off to the West and Sheridan, WY is another 36 miles NNW of Buffalo. Not too many options. Perhaps time to purchase that air conditioned tent and sleeping bag. But, then it is just money and you cannot take it with you. The website for the BMW MOA rally is: http://www.bmwmoa.org/rally/rally08/. GOJ/eof 21Dec2007 |
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| 3rd Sunday Club Ride - Brian Gough ride leader | 1216512000 |
| WSBMWR Club 3rd Sunday ride [suspended until further notice] - Brian Gough ride leader - breakfast @ 8 AM - ride @ 9 AM - "North Cascades with ice cream @ Winthrop" South Everett starting point - Mitzel's Restaurant - 128th Street - Exit 186 off of I-5 - west side of freeway GOJ/eof |
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| Rally - Cascade Country Rendezvous - WSBMWR Club | 1216857600 |
| The CCR will be held on the final weekend in July again this year. The 36th annual rally is scheduled to be held at the Pacific County Fairgrounds at Menlo, WA [N46° 37.379' x W123° 39.037'] adjacent to SR6 and about 7 miles SE from Raymond, WA. Registration prior to 01 July 2008 is $40.00 for adults and $20.00 for children. For more information and to pre-register go to: http://www.wsbmwr.org/, call (253) 208-8887 or email rally@wsbmwr.org. GOJ/eof 21Dec2007 |
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| Rally - Stanley Stomp - Idaho BMW Riders | 1218067200 |
| The Idaho BMW Riders are again hosting their annual rally in Grandjean, ID [N44° 09.042' x W115° 09.201' - 6 miles SE off of Hwy 21 - about a 3 hour and 100 mile ride NE out of Boise, ID] at the Sawtooth Lodge. Registration is open at the end of January, 2008 and will be limited to the first 200 paid registrants. The Club's website is: http://www.idahobmwriders.com/. For what it is worth, Stanley, ID is only ~ 11 miles ENE from the rally site (44 miles via. Hwy 21) and is usually one of the 2 coldest spots in the nation during this time period in August (the other is Wisdom, MT). The week I attended the rally the lowest temperature that I recall one morning was 28° F. I'm glad I packed my Gerbing heated gear as I used it every morning. GOJ/eof 21Dec2007 |
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| Rally - Bee Cee Beemers (see notes below) | 1218672000 |
| Unofficial dates for the Bee Cee Beemers Rally. Last year the rally was held on the 3rd weekend of August; i.e., 16 August --> 19 August 2007 in Nakusp, BC, Canada. The Club's website is: http://www.beeceebeemers.com/. Hopefully more information will be available soon. GOJ/eof 21Dec2007 The Bee Cee Beemers annual Rally will be held this year (CY2008) between the 14th and the 17th of August in Nakusp, BC, Canada. Pre-registration closes on Friday, 01 August 2008. GoJ/eof 14 June 2008 |
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| 3rd Sunday Club Ride - cancelled | 1218931200 |
| 3rd Sunday Club rides have been suspended until further notice/GoJ WSBMWR Club 3rd Sunday ride - Brian Gough ride leader - breakfast @ 8 AM - ride @ 9 AM - "Paradise - Mt. Rainier" Renton starting point - Shari's Restaurant - Exit 4 off of I-405 - Hwy 169 Maple Valley Highway - east side of freeway GOJ/eof |
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| Rally - Bearthooth Beemers - Red Lodge, MT | 1219276800 |
| The Treasure State BMW Riders of Billings, MT will again be hosting their annual rally at the Lions Beartooth Mountain Youth Camp 10 miles south of Red Lodge, MT [N45° 04.936' x W109° 22.528' - just off of Hwy 212 on the Lake Fork Road at Rock Creek ~ 72 miles SW of Billings, MT]. Typically, early campers can register and access the campgrounds ~ noon on Thursday. When I attended last year registration was closed by Friday afternoon as the campsite (legal insurance liability) limit of 250 people was reached. The Club's website is: http://www.treasurestate.com/btbeemers/rally_info.htm. GOJ/eof 21Dec2007 |
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| Club Campout - Pine-Near RV Park Winthrop | 1219968000 |
| We are back once again to Pine-Near RV Park in Winthrop. It is on the road parallel to the main street. On their web site it appears that they are closed but not so. They will be open all this summer and then closed next year. Sooooooooooo, we have rented the double wide trailer for Saturday evening and the camp spots just opposite along side the hill. We will pay for camping on Friday and Saturday night and will host somekind of road kill food Saturday evening from the trailer. We don't do dishes so you must bring your own utensils if you want to partake in the wonderful culinary delights. Then we will all go downtown for ice cream!!!!! How great is that!!!!! The double wide has floor space to sleep on if you need it. Please email Mike or myself for further info. Cheers. Tina and Mike. |
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| Labor Day | 1220227200 |
| GOJ/eof | |
| Club Campout - Sequim Bay State Park | 1220572800 |
Group campout has been reserved at the Sequim Bay State Park - further info to follow as we get closer to the date. Tina & Mike |
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| WSBMWR Club monthly meeting | 1220745600 |
| September, 2008 WSBMWR Club monthly meeting The kick off meeting for our Club’s final four gatherings for Calendar Year (CY) 2008 can now be announced. The meeting will be held at the Mt. Vernon Royal Fork Restaurant on the first Sunday of September; i.e., the 7th at 09:30 hrs PDST. I have reserved their large meeting room (Area #2 - holds up to 80 people) for the event. The doors of the establishment open at 08:30 AM and the breakfast menu buffet items will be available to us through 11:30 AM. Prices are as follows: $8.60 per person $8.10 seniors (60+ years old) $0.99 for any/all beverages + 8% Washington State Sales Tax So, for us old folks, the total tab will be less than ten bucks! Well, that was the easy part. But you say, where in the H--- is the restaurant? First, let me provide the name, address & lat/long: Royal Fork Restaurant 2300 Freeway Drive Mt. Vernon, WA 98273 (360) 424-4044 N 48° 26.447’ W 122° 20.527’ Elevation ~ 15 feet Actually, as you drive along I-5 just north of downtown Mt. Vernon, you will see the Restaurant off on the west side of the freeway and just south of the bridge over the Skagit River. But, that really does not do you any good as you cannot get to it via. a freeway frontage road – there ain’t any. You have to come in the ‘back way’. Here is how you do it: From I-5 (either direction) Take exit 227 – College Way – Hwy 538 Proceed west 2 blocks on College Way (left if you were traveling northbound) and turn right (north) onto Freeway Drive Drive north 0.3 miles – the Restaurant will be on your right (east side of Freeway Drive) just north of the Tulip Inn and half way between Freeway Drive and I-5. If you miss the Restaurant, you will know it as Freeway Drive ends in another 700 feet at Stewart Road (additionally, the Skagit River is less than 500 feet north of Stewart Road - and ending up in the river could almost ruin your day). I made the run up there early this morning from my home east of Redmond. Total distance from downtown Redmond is 65 miles and it took me just over 1 hour (the stretch of I-5 both north and south of Everett is the happy hunting ground of the WSP…I noticed 4 separate speed enforcement areas). For a look at the Mt. Vernon Royal Fork Breakfast Buffet menu, go to the Royal Fork web site at: www.royalforkrestaurants.com/menus.html. After the breakfast meeting, you might want to consider making a short run off to the west of the freeway – taking the Conway exit #221. Usually a couple of gals selling freshly picked sweet corn off of a flat bed trailer behind their dad’s tractor (NE corner of I-5 & Hwy 534 – across from the gas station) at this time of the year. Then, a run west on Fir Island Road on over to Hughes Farms to score on some freshly harvested produce at their roadside stand…or a little further west on down Fir Island Road to the Snow Goose Ice Cream Parlor just south of the North Fork of Skagit River bridge and fill in the remaining cracks after breakfast with some of their delicious ice cream (this place is on Brain Gough’s touring ‘must stop’ list). Head back south on Pioneer Road (just west of I-5) and Marine Drive and keep off of the super slab most of the way back to Everett. And, lest anyone forget, the September meeting is your chance to nominate the slate of officers for next year’s Board of Directors. Tom Burull is bailing out after a great job of heading up the Club as Co-President for 2 years. Tina Hansen is still looking for a qualified person to fill in the Club Treasurer position. And, although not an elected position, Bill Vogan has announced (after 4 years as editor-in-chief of the SHAFT) that he is having so much fun on his massive land holdings in Eastern WA that he will allow someone else to carry on in his shoes as editor of the monthly SHAFT. Now, that is an opportunity you do not want to pass up! See yah at the meeting… Grumpy Old John/eof Sunday, 29 June 2008 19:00 hrs PDST |
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| 3rd Sunday Club Ride - Brian Gough ride leader | 1221955200 |
| WSBMWR Club 3rd Sunday ride - Brian Gough ride leader - breakfast @ 8 AM - ride @ 9 AM - "Mount Baker - Artist Point" South Everett starting point - Mitzel's Restaurant - 128th Street - Exit 186 off of I-5 - west side of freeway GOJ/eof |
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| Yakama Nation Campout, Toppenish | 1222992000 |
| We are camping at the Yakama Nation RV park in Toppenish. We have 3 or 4 teepees rented as well that you are welcome to sleep in. Reservations are for Friday and Saturday night and we will cook something great Saturday night. Any questions please email me at tina_yvr@yahoo.ca Thanks and let's all go sit by the campfire and kick tires!!!! Tina http://www.winesnw.com/YakNtnRVListing.htm Yakama Nation Resort RV Park 280 Buster Road (Map) Toppenish, WA 98948 Phone: 509-865-2000 or 800-874-3087 Fax: 509-865-1801 Email: reservations@yakamanation.com Home Web Page: www.yakamanation.com |
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| WSBMWR Club monthly meeting | 1223164800 |
| 09:30 hrs PDST Location: TBD This is our annual election meeting. If you would like to enjoy the opportunity to further your involvement in your Club's affairs and activities, I urge you to consider volunteering for one of the elected Club Officer (and Board of Directors) positions; namely Co-President, Secretary, Treasurer or Member at Large. In addition, if required, the Club is always looking for support in the following areas: Rally Chairperson(s), Ride Chairperson(s) and Country Store. If you would like to help out by leading a Club ride (usually the 3rd Sunday of each month), our current ride leader Brian Gough, I am sure would appreciate some backup. GOJ/eof |
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| WA State Ferry System - Peak Fare Season Ends | 1223683200 |
| Cheers... The WA State Ferry System San Juan Island ferry fares return to non-peak season rates today (see discussion from the 01 May 2008 posting). Fares for motorcycle plus driver drops from $22.10 to $16.35 (~ $6) for the Anacortes to Friday Harbor run. Typically, the 2nd weekend in October is the transition point between the two fare rate structures. For those of you have procrastinated all summer about 'doing' the islands, now you do not have any further excuses to get out and 'go do 'er'. For more information see the WA State Ferry System web site at: http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries/fares Ride safely... Grumpy Old John/eof |
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| Columbus Day | 1223856000 |
| Federal Holiday GOJ/eof |
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| 3rd Sunday Club Ride - Brian Gough ride leader | 1224374400 |
| WSBMWR Club 3rd Sunday ride - Brian Gough ride leader - breakfast @ 8 AM - ride @ 9 AM - "3-Pass Blast - South Central WA - Cayuse, White & Chinook Passes" Renton starting point - Shari's Restaurant - Exit 4 off of I-405 - Hwy 169 Maple Valley Highway - east side of freeway GOJ/eof |
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| Halloween | 1225411200 |
| Booo GOJ/eof |
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| Daylight Saving Time ends (see notes) | 1225584000 |
| On Sunday, 02 November 2008 @ 02:00 hours, Daylight Saving Time (DST) officially ends. The old saw is "Fall back"; i.e., at 2 AM Sunday morning, move your clocks back 1 hour. 25 hour day. Wow!! If the weather cooperates you can enjoy an additional hour of riding time. Grumpy Old John/eof |
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| WSBMWR Club monthly meeting | 1225584000 |
| 10:00 hrs PST - don't forget to set those clocks back one (1) hour at 2 AM this morning - yah, right on captain!!! South Sound BMW hosting breakfast. Turkey Run following the meeting which, in turn, is followed by our traditional chili feed (with various & sundry other munchies) at Dan & Lynn's digs near Woodinville. |
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| Veteran's Day | 1226361600 |
| Federal Holiday WWI ended on the 11th day of the 11th month at 11 minutes after 11 AM. Almost sounds premeditated. GOJ/eof |
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| 3rd Sunday Club Ride - Brian Gough ride leader | 1226793600 |
| WSBMWR Club 3rd Sunday ride - Brian Gough ride leader - breakfast @ 8 AM - ride @ 9 AM - "Grand Tour of Whidbey Island" South Everett starting point - Mitzel's Restaurant - 128th Street - Exit 186 off of I-5 - west side of freeway Brian knows of this really neat place to get some fabulous halibut fish-n-chips.... Tobey's Bar & Grill I think it is... GOJ/eof |
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| Thanksgiving Day | 1227744000 |
| Gobble - gobble GOJ/eof |
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| WSBMWR Club monthly meeting | 1228608000 |
| 10:00 hrs PST Location: TBD Traditionally at this meeting we encourage each member to bring a donation for the US Marine Corp Toys-for-Tots gift drive. GOJ/eof |
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| earliest sunsets of the year | 1228694400 |
| The earliest sunsets of the year occur during this time frame @ 16:16 PST (04:14 PM PST) (reference: Seattle, WA). GOJ/eof |
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| full moon | 1229040000 |
| @ 08:37 AM PST GOJ/eof |
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| shortest days of the year | 1229472000 |
| The shortest days (minimum time duration between sunrise and sunset) of the year occur during this time frame with 08:25 hr:min of possible daylight (reference: Seattle, WA). GOJ/eof |
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| Winter Solstice - first day of Winter (see notes) | 1229817600 |
| Solstice – Winter 1. On this day, the axis of the Earth is tilted at its maximum angle away from the Sun as viewed from the North Pole. 2. On this day, the axis of the Earth is tilted at its maximum angle towards the Sun as viewed from the South Pole. 3. On this day, the Sun at noon has moved to its maximum southerly latitude for the year. The latitude is called Tropic of Capricorn, or Southern tropic, and currently lies 23° 26′ 22″ south of the equator. 4. On this day, the minimum amount of daylight is achieved (08:25 at Seattle, WA). 5. On this day, the maximum amount of darkness is achieved (15:35 at Seattle, WA). 6. On this day, the Sun reaches its minimum elevation for the year (~ 19º at Seattle, WA). 7. On this day, the Sun rises furthest South of East for the year (~ 125º True at Seattle, WA or 35º South of true East). 8. On this day, the Sun sets furthest South of West for the year (~ 235º True at Seattle, WA or 35º South of true West). 9. On this day, the Sun makes its minimum transit East-to-West from sunrise to sunset for the year (~ 110º included angle at Seattle, WA). 10. On this day, the amount of daylight begins to increase, reaching a maximum value at the Summer Solstice. The first day of Winter officially gets underway today at 04:04 PST in the cold and dark of the very early morning. But, things do not get any worse than they do today with respect to the amount of possible daylight (see line item #4). Think Spring (see line item #10). |
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| 3rd Sunday Club Ride - Brian Gough ride leader | 1229817600 |
| WSBMWR Club 3rd Sunday ride - Brian Gough ride leader - breakfast @ 8 AM - ride @ 9 AM - "Exploring Snoqualmie Valley Northbound" Renton starting point - Shari's Restaurant - Exit 4 off of I-405 - Hwy 169 Maple Valley Highway - east side of freeway GOJ/eof |
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| Christmas Day | 1230163200 |
| Have a Merry Christmas... GOJ/eof |
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| latest sunrises of the year | 1230422400 |
| The latest sunrises of the year occur in early January and late December @ 07:57 hrs PST (referenced to Seattle, WA). GOJ/eof |
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| New Year's Eve | 1230681600 |
| Happy New Year... GOJ/eof |
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| Opening Day of Boating Season | 1241222400 |
| Annual recurring event - first Saturday of each May. Be aware that traffic flow across the Montlake Bridge (SR 513) between Portage Bay and Lake Washington will be compromised Saturday morning. In fact, it probably is a good idea to bypass SR 520 althogher that morning. Grumpy Old John/eof |
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| BMW MOA International Rally | 1247702400 |
| As posted on the BMW MOA Forum… The 2009 BMW MOA International Rally will be held at the Appalachian Fair complex in Gray, TN, July 16th through July 19th. Gray is about 86 miles (as the crow flies) NE of Knoxville, TN and is located in the heart of the some of the best riding country the south eastern United States has to offer. Deals Gap is just about 125 miles to the south west, and the Blue Ridge Parkway lies to the east. The lat/long coordinates for ‘downtown’ Gray, TN is as follows: N 36° 25.189’ W 082° 28.592’ Here's a link to the Fair's web site, however many of its pages are still under construction: http://www.appalachianfair.com Grumpy Old John/eof 01 July 2008 08:20 hrs PDST |
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| Opening Day of Boating Season | 1272672000 |
| Annual recurring event - first Saturday of each May. Be aware that traffic flow across the Montlake Bridge (SR 513) between Portage Bay and Lake Washington will be compromised Saturday morning. In fact, it probably is a good idea to bypass SR 520 althogher that morning. Grumpy Old John/eof |
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