Hey Guys---It's grey, it's drizzly, it's cold---but there's still a lot that has gone on and a lot still to go on. So, while I really need to catch you up on some things I think it's even more important to let you know what is still in store for this year (and peek into next year just a little.)
 
 
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Coming up:
 
11/26 Thanksgiving--a time for reflection and thoughts on family, friends and those special people and things that make life worth living---take a moment to thank yourself for the little things you do each day that no one ever comments on, but you do because you know it's right to do them. And then watch some football, a parade and eat a slice of pumpkin pie, because you deserve it.
 
11/28 Vietnam Vets/Legacy Vets Mary Bridge Children's Hospital Toy Run---Bar-B-Que from Noon at Destination HD (in Fife) leaves there to ride around the Hospital at 1:30pm, $10 donation requested. We'll probably leave here at 11:00am, if there is any interest we can schedule some pack-up points along the way.
 
11/28 Toys for Tots prep event at the Barrel (112th and first Ave S in Burien)---bring a new unwrapped toy and get a Mexican dinner for $5, 5:00m start time. It'll be nice after the Vet's ride to come back and get dinner at a fair price.
 
12/4 Chicken Friday!!!---just haven't mentioned it in a while; we'll be at the Barrel.
 
12/5 State Toy Run in Olympia---gates open at South Sound Center in Lacey at 10:00am (exit 108 off I-5), ride begins at 1:00pm...if you've never done this one, you need to. The sight of thousands of bikes monopolizing both sides of Capital Way in downtown Olympia is awe inspiring (four abreast, both directions.) Let's plan to leave the Barrel at 9:00am, we'll make a quick stop at the Yardarm in Des Moines to pick up anyone from there, then make our way to Tacoma V-Twin (South 56th & 'M' in Tacoma) where we'll take a warm up break. Leaving Tacoma by 11:00am should get us to Lacey in plenty of time to get pins and T-shirts by ride time---then all you have to do is wait for the sound of the low flying jet.
 
12/6 North Kitsap ABATE Toy Run for the children of Harrison Medical Center---ride leaves American Legion Post 68 at 10:00am. To make this ride we'll have to catch the 8:45am Bremerton ferry and catch the run at the second stop (Romeo's Bar and Grill on Kitsap Way over in west Bremerton by Lake Kitsap) and which leaves there at 10:45am. Sorry I got no addresses---the flier didn't have any.
 
12/8 Second Tuesday Rat City ABATE meeting---at the Emerald Green Restaurant (13100 48th in Tukwila Wa) 6:00pm social/7:00pm general meeting. All are welcome--bring a friend.
 
12/11,12,13 International Motorcycle Show at Qwest Field Event Center---Friday 4:00pm till 9:00pm, Saturday 9:30am till 8:00pm, Sunday 9:30am till 5:00pm. There will be an ABATE of Washington booth there this year and Mark the Shark and I will be there Friday evening, stop by and say HI!
 
12/12 Tacoma ABATE's run for the YWCA Women's Shelter---leaves the Haven (12510 Pacific Ave in Parkland) at Noon. Wrap up at the Right Spot in Fife. This is hands down my favorite event of the year, it will leave you with something to think about.
 
12/12 Rat City ABATE Breakfast Ride---our bi-monthly ride will be Saturday this month only and will meet in the parking lot of the Yankee Diner in Renton (on the north side of where I-405 and Rte 167 cross). We will then ride to Parkland to have breakfast at the Haven (they're offering a breakfast special) and take part in the Tacoma ABATE run for the Tacoma YWCA Women's Shelter. Everyone is welcome, leave from Renton 9:00am.
 
12/12 The Squirrels last Christmas Show (and last show for real)---9:30pm at the Tractor Tavern in Ballard. It is rumored that the Claus will put in an appearance. $10 in advance or at the door. Fro more info go to:
http://www.facebook.com/thesquirrels?v=app_2344061033#/event.php?eid=59004717948&index=1
        
12/18 Another Chicken Friday Christmas---OK here it is, the one you've all been waiting for (or maybe it's just me). This year's Another Chicken Friday Christmas is a co-sponsorship between Top Hat Taxes and Rat City ABATE of Washington.
Where: the Barrel (112th and First Ave S in North Burien) What: CHICKEN FRIDAY!!!!---diner buffet supplied by that Gourmet eating establishment the Barrel, $10  Who: my good friend Orville Johnson will be there to provide the light motif for the evening, the Clause will be there to read "The Night Before Christmas", Christmas Carols will be sung and if Dave Eady shows up with his lighted Sleigh-Cycle my night will be complete. When: 6:00pm till...10:00pm?? Why: We're gonna try and raise some money for the food bank. (All money collected will go to the Food Bank.)
This will be out only on electronic media, so feel free to spread it around--feel free to bring a friend. If you've been thinking: "I'd sure like to go to a CHICKEN FRIDAY!!!" and haven't done so yet, this is your chance---see you there.
 
12/25 Christmas---I don't care what your religion is, this is the time of the year when you count your blessings. When the long hights are the darkest, it's important to have something warm and bright to hold onto. If nothing else works for you---remember: I love you (at least most of you anyway.)
 
12/31 New Years Eve--a new beginning---isn't nice how they give you one each year?
 
1/21/2010 (it sounds so weird to say that let alone write it) Black Thursday---ABATE of Washington's legislative day. Time to flood the Capital---more info to come...
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Gawd---told you there was a lot to come
 
Remind me to tell you about---STEAM (did I tell you about STEAM?), the last Rat City ABATE breakfast ride, the wet ride to Portland (we had to bail the bikes), the cold ride to Cle Elum (Mark the Shark went the other way at the end and had to ride the first snow to get back), Halloween (I think), the boat ride to the North Kitsap ABATE Wing Ding (nice folks)... 
 
 
If Ya want me ta know somethin Ya gotta tell me.
irish_mckinney@hotmail.com
www.irishmckinney.spaces.live.com
 
Chicken Friday
Rat City ABATE Second Tuesday
www.ratcityabate.org  
 
 
Enough
Later
 
IRISH
 
TopHatTaxes@hotmail.com
(206)299-0375
 

Hey Guys---I'm getting so lost in time, that I'm having a hard time remembering what's been done lately and what I've already talked about. So if I forget about something let me know, but gently---I'm feeling kind of fragile for some reason.
 
OK, so the new Thunder Press is out and they have deigned to print two of my stories this month---a story about the VME Isle of Vashon event (which I think is a pretty fair story) and the Strutz Fest (which I think is a pretty fair event.) So if you feel the inclination pick up a copy and let me know what you think. No prizes for this, but I may quote you if you don't make me blush too much---one way or the other.
 
Sunday the 13th was our bi-monthly road clean up. There was a good turnout and it didn't take long to get done. It's kind of amazing how good you feel after making a little bit of the Earth look a little better. I now find myself riding down the road looking at the filth piled up wondering who is responsible---there's a certain stretch of road that I know the answer to the question. next clean up 11/8 write it down---join us. The rest of the day we spent at a nice Jazz fest up at Sand Point---thanks for the invite Karen.
 
A few weeks ago, on a Saturday, we were supposed to do our annual pilgrimage around Hood Canal. The morning dawned grey and misty (Gawd what a surprise for a September Morn!) We were scheduled to meet people at the Fauntleroy Ferry Dock---and we were there---by ourselves, but we had said we would meet people in Purdy at the Flotation Device Pub; so on the boat we got. While on the ride on the boat Mark the Shark called to say he was at the Pub. We finished the ride into Purdy in the chill and falling mist, taking care on the slick back roads; as we came down the bluff into Olala before heading into Crescent Valley, a pair of does resting on someone's lawn watched us ride by without batting an eye.
 
While riding in that kind of weather is not one of my favorite things to do, there is something to be said about the beauty of it. The deep color of the evergreens made even deeper by the moisture in the air, the broad leafs just starting to turn, but not yet falling and making a mess of the roads, the way the sky seems to hang just above your head and yet there's the lingering possibility that everything will clear up, the clouds will part and the sun will shine like it's never gone into hiding.
 
At Purdy we met the Shark, had a very nice breakfast and decided we didn't need to prove anything. We headed back the way we had come, pausing along the way to point out where the Polar Bears jump off the bridge every January First in Olala. The rest of the ride back to the boat was fairly uneventful and once we were home a fire in the fireplace helped to shake off the chill of the day.
 
We spent the weekend of Oyster Run, close to home. The crowd involved are getting to the point where it's just scary. I'm to the point that the only way I would go anymore is to go Saturday and come back Monday. Any thoughts on that? Suggestions?
 
Last weekend (10/2,3,4) we went to the ABATE STEAM/Board of Directors at Panhandle Lake near Shelton. We headed out in the afternoon Friday with Glenn riding with us from here to the Ferry where the Shark caught up with us. The weather was marginal, but it was still a nice ride through the woods. At the camp (fieldhouse, cabins, dorms, mess hall) Mike Norris and the Hangin' Chad joined up with us. Mike's bike is down because of someone else's non-thinking turn in front of him and Chad had family affairs to take care of before the weekend was done, so they both drove around. It turns out this camp is one I had been to a couple of times in my youth---lots of flash-backs all weekend long.
 
The weekend was structured around learning sessions on Saturday and a general meeting of the organization on Sunday, with plenty of time for socializing built in. The highlight of the weekend was the Saturday night mid-night swim---a bit nipply, but if you're fortified it's not bad at all. All in all an enjoyable and informative weekend.
___________________________________________________________________ 
I have been a little lax about keeping up with up-coming events---so let me fill you in on just a few that are important to me:
 
10/11---Rat City Breakfast ride--meets at Gator's (21609 84th Ave S Kent) 9:00am for breakfast---after that who knows (I could have some surprises)
 
10/13---Second Tuesday Rat City meeting---at the Emerald Green Restaurant (13100 48th Tukwila) 6:00pm social/7:00pm general meeting---come meet the new Coordinator Chad. Bring a friend.
 
10/17---Rat City ABATE Scavenger Hunt---starts 10:00am at the Whitehorse Bar & Grill (14935 Interurban Ave S Tukwila) $10 buy in--ends 4:00pm same place. I won't be hunting this year, so someone else has a better chance of winning.
 
12/18---Another Chicken Friday Christmas---starts 6:00pm at the Barrel (112th & 1st Ave S Burien) this year will be co-sponsored by Top Hat Taxes and Rat City ABATE. I've made arrangements for some entertainment (other than drunk Bikers singing Christmas Carols) we will be raising monies for the local Food Bank---and of course I will read "The Night Before Christmas" There will be no advertisements other than electronic, so feel free to spread the word and bring friends.
 
 
 
If Ya want me ta know somethin Ya gotta tell me.
irish_mckinney@hotmail.com
www.irishmckinney.spaces.live.com
 
Chicken Friday
Rat City ABATE Second Tuesday
www.ratcityabate.org  
 
 
Enough
Later
 
IRISH
 
TopHatTaxes@hotmail.com
(206)299-0375
 
reprinted at www.bikerfriendlybar.com

Hey Guys---just reread my last e-mail from Pt Townsend and it sounds pretty stilted. I was composing on the laptop and every now and then it would ask if I really wanted to leave what I was doing---and then it didn't ask it just did it and there went half of what I had already written---Gawd was I pissed. It never sounds half as good on the reconstruction as it did originally. 
 
Anywho we were at Pt Townsend for the Friday evening of Labor Day Weekend and had a very nice time with the relatives (I might have indulged just a bit, causing me to be a bit slow in the morning.) But, in the morning we packed the trailer and headed for the KOA campground near Port Angeles, continuing our trek around the Olympic Peninsula on Highway 101. It was crowded but we did manage to find a room at the Inn and early in the day at that.
 
After getting settled we saddled back up and headed for the end of the world at Neah Bay and beyond to Cape Flattery. We dodged and didn't rain squalls all day and all the way, but it wasn't enough to stop and put rain gear on. We followed the road until there wasn't any more road---just a trail. Then we walked---yeah you heard me we walked. On the way out it wasn't bad...down hill. As they say it's not the trot over it's the crawl back that will get you. I did take some pictures so it was worth the walk. We went because my friend Yogi says he wants to pee off the end of the world---I'd walk it again just to see him take that hike to take that pee-----motorcycle boots are not made for hiking.
 
Back at camp that night we were treated to the pitter patter of raindrops that kept falling on our heads---in the morning we packed in the wet and misty morning. It was damp but we were determined to try to keep to our plan. First thing were treated to a morning vision of Lake Crescent; we had rain gear on but the weather was still deciding what it was going to do. As we sound our way around the lake you could watch small white clouds shred themselves as they climbed the evergreen sides of the mountains. The mist in the air was just enough to keep things interesting as I took my time guiding the bike and trailer around the twisties of the lake. By Forks we were soaked and the rain was serious.
  
After breakfast in Forks we rode in and out of rain cells both big and small to the shores of Lake Quinault, where we arraigned for a camp spot. We were told to go on down and choose a spot. While riding around the grounds checking out the camp spots I found myself in ankle deep mud---I was still on the bike. Luckily there were some other campers there to help me set things right.
 
The rain came and went (mostly came) throughout the day---which we spent snug and damp in the pop-up. Lucky we had brought books. In the morning it was still raining and I had had enough. At Aberdeen instead of turning south as we had originally intended, we continued east toward Olympia, I-5 and home. It was like Mother Nature was saying "You're not getting off that easy." The rain at times became not a liquid but a wet solid as we made our run for home. We were home by early afternoon Monday---I think it took at least three days for my boots to dry. [there are some pictures on the web site---there are also pictures from the Isle of Vashon VME event, which I forgot to mention last time]
 
Last Friday, at Chicken Friday I got a call from The Gimp. "You gotta go on this ride with me tomorrow---I'll call you in the morning and tell you how were hooking up." Well, when The Gimp calls you answer. I remembered to take my Ibuprofen before I went to bed, so was awake to take the call the next morning. I met him in a parking lot in Renton with Mick Gillispie the Washington State ABATE Coordinator and we headed north up I-405 for Everett.
 
In Everett we found the Lighthouse Saloon (not without some backtracking and help from a group of Band of Brothers.) This was a Confederation of Clubs event and there were patches from almost every club in western Washington. There were well over 150 bikes there to start the ride. The destinations were a close secret. There were two stops, one in Lynwood (Shoreline ?) The other, just south of where I am now, in Seatac.
 
There are some establishments that will not serve someone who rides a motorcycle and shows an affiliation to a club on their back. If you were a union member and some place asked you to leave because you wore clothing that said you were a union member---how would you feel? If you were a fan of a local sports team and were asked to leave some place because you wore something to show your support---how would you feel? Now if in the past you or someone you were associated with had done something to warrant that reaction it would be one thing, but how about if it was just supposition that something might happen---how would you feel?
 
That's what this ride was about---visiting two places that have a policy of not serving club members. It was done in a friendly but firm manner, with enough people in attendance to show the establishments the up side of serving club members $$$.
 
I have to commend Double D, the Defenders (an arm of the Confederation of Clubs) Commander, for his show of leadership and everyone else for their attitude.
 
Coming up
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9/19 Hood Canal Ride---Meet at the Fauntleroy Ferry to catch the 9:15am boat to Southworth--first stop will be the Flotation Device in Purdy---so those coming from the south, may want to hook up there---if you want breakfast there get there early.
We're thinking of a picnic at the Sharks place so the stop in Hoodsport may only be for provisions. Even if it's damp here, the west side of the canal is usually in a rain shadow, so it will probably be nice over there.
 
10/2,3,4 ABATE of Washington Steam at Panhandle Lake 4-H Camp in Shelton if you are interested in ABATE or grass roots political action this is for you [flier on the web site]
 
10/17 Harvest Moon Dance by Sky Valley Chapte of ABATE in Monroe $5 [flier on the web site]
 
10/17 Scavenger Hunt By Rat City Chapter of ABATE--meet at the Whitehorse Bar & Grill (14935 Interurban Ave S Tukwila) play starts 10:00am ends 4:00pm $10 benefits White Center Food Bank
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If Ya want me ta know somethin Ya gotta tell me.
irish_mckinney@hotmail.com
www.irishmckinney.spaces.live.com
 
Chicken Friday
Rat City ABATE Second Tuesday
www.ratcityabate.org  
 
 
Enough
Later
 
IRISH
 
TopHatTaxes@hotmail.com
(206)299-0375
 
reprinted at www.bikerfriendlybar.com

Hey Guys---Greetings from Pt. Townsend--we're trying to take a little trip around the Olympic Peninsula this Labor Day weekend. We'll see if the weather and our stamina let us make it. We are currently at Marjorie's nephew's, Nathan, and his wife Susan's home. We don't get to see enough of them so this is a pleasure. We spent last night at Potlatch State Park---nice place, if you get the chance to visit---you should.
 
Last week took a special Taco Thursday ride with some people to a burger joint near Greenwood. As a matter of fact it's right at the end of Finney ridge just after the Woodland Park Zoo, where Finney Avenue does a jog to become Greenwood Avenue. If you're traveling north on Finney and fail to make the jog, you would run right into Red Mill Burgers. You probably shouldn't run into it, but you should go there---Gawd what a burger. There was Yogi and Jenn, Otis, the Shark and a couple others (I'm gettin' old and the synapsis don't fire the same way they used to.)
 
We went from there to the Alki---though it took a long time cause the Shark had to stop for a rest every couple miles (I think he's gettin old too.) At the Alki we heard rumours of the infamous VME Vashon ride being scheduled to happen that next Sunday. Well I ran right home, made some calls, posted some Q's on line and got confirmation. At Chicken Friday we discussed going over to Vashon and taking part---also got some responses to the on line stuff. Well Sunday morning we were at the Ferry dock, but no one we knew was there. When we hit the dock on vashon Mike Campbell was there waiting for us. Just as I parked my bike in the town of Vashon my cell rang---it was The Gimp and Ruufie come over from Tacoma. We all hooked up and went looking for some morning fortification. At one point I caught a glimpse of Glenn Goodgion from Rat City ABATE, but he was already on his way out of town on the poker run and didn't see me.
 
Once we were on our way it was fun showing the newcomers around the ride. We made a stop at the little store in Burton and pulled up beside Glenn. He had his map upside down, so I told him we would take care of him. The route on this ride hasn't changed a whole lot in the years that I've been doing it, so it's just kind of kick back and do it. I had gotten the Shovelhead out the day before and checked it out to be able to ride it at the Vintage Motorcycle Enthusiasts event and it was running pretty good until the last mile or so before the Sportsmen's Club. When we got to the Sportsmen's Club I changed out spark plugs and figured that would take care of it.
 
When it came time to go, I fired up and it sounded pretty good. Then it quit and wouldn't start. The rule is go back to what you did last, so I changed out another set of plugs. Then ran the battery down so started kicking. We found someone to give a jump, that didn't help. Marjorie called AAA and was told two hours---out came the tools again. As the lot emptied up walked a group of young gentlemen to ask what they could do to help. We talked about it and checked spark and points. We pushed the bike up the hill and tried to bump start it on the way down.  Just as we were all getting a little frusterated I pulled the air filter and checked fuel flow---none. One of the young men spotted what he thought was water in the fuel filter, so we pulled and drained the line---still nothing. I pulled my leatherman and whacked the float bowl---that worked. Pn the third kick the bike fired up.
 
These guys were up from Portland for the weekend to attend this event. They made all the difference in my day and I hope we see each other again. They are the next generation in the lifestyle---I think I'll quit worrying.
 
The Cowchip Boogie story is in this months Thunder Press---check it out.
 
Don't forget Second Tuesday this coming Tuesday---Rat City ABATE meeting--come on down.
 
Rat City Road clean-up 9/13--come help beautify America---9:00am at the Barrel.
 
Hood Canal ride 9/19---first ferry from Fauntleroy after 9:00am (9:15 I think)
 
 
This is Irish with a low five from the hi-way---hope we make it, I'm sitting here as it's starting to rain.
 
 
If Ya want me ta know somethin Ya gotta tell me.
irish_mckinney@hotmail.com
www.irishmckinney.spaces.live.com
 
Chicken Friday
Rat City ABATE Second Tuesday
www.ratcityabate.org  
 
 
Enough
Later
 
IRISH
 
TopHatTaxes@hotmail.com
(206)299-0375
 
reprinted at www.bikerfriendlybar.com

Hey Guys---Last we spoke, Marjorie and I were in Coquille, Oregon having a nice visit with that side of the family. I know it's probably not interesting to most of you, but there are some pictures from that trip on the web site. I may have also forgotten to tell you that there are a bunch of pictures from the Strutz Fest on the web site---so you can kinda get a better idea of what that was like.
So, moving right along---we headed back north on the Saturday (8/15) heading up the coast and taking our time, just trying to keep as steady a pace as we could. As you can imagine at this time of year the tourist traffic was pretty intense. Most of the wide spots in the road were almost stop and go---so needless to say most of our time was spent getting on down the road instead of looking at it. We finally did make one discretionary stop in Gearhardt (I think) at a nice public establishment for a much needed refreshing beverage.
We made it into Ilwaco,Wa that evening to our favorite campground...KOA. The first question asked was---"Do you have a reservation?" We didn't--but I must have said the right thing at the right time (and I wish I could remember what that was) because they opened up a closed RV spot for us and were going to charge us camp spot rates. That was until the lovely lady behind the counter looked at her computer again (you know? Sometimes these things do have redeeming values) and asked if I would like $10 or $25 off my bill------yeah it took me about that long. It ended up that we had enough bonus points from last summer that all we had to do was pay the sales tax and we were good to go. Ain't America great??-----Oh that was $2.06!
 
Next day we were home before it got hot.
 
Only trouble we had was a pesky little oil leak from up top, where I had done the head gasket job. So when we got back, I changed the valve cover gaskets on the rear jug again---still got just a touch of seep, but I'll figure it out eventually.
 
Went up to Ballard for Backfire Motorcycle Night (Third Wednesday each month). If you haven't caught this action---you need to. The diversity in the bikes is definitely worth the ride to check out. Spent a little time with our favorite Skandihoovian, Karen Hansen...thanks Karen.
 
Did City Hall in Cumberland and the Yella Beak in Enumclaw for Taco Thursday. Had a nice visits with Mike Campbell and Lesta about the Kickback Campout in Lewis County---maybe next year. Also visited with "Princess" Karen from South King County---there's some chatter going round that her buddy Big Rick is coming back into town. Be good to have Rick back galoomping around.
 
Hadn't been to a Chicken Friday in a while so put off going to the Apples Family Campout until Saturday Morning. Nice casual Friday---got my Barrel Chicken fix and headed out bright and bleary to Royal Arches in Maple Valley. Good to see some of my buddies that I don't get to see very often. Gotta say, especially nice to see the contingent from the west side. When's the next pig roast over there guys?
The Apples always put together a nice party---games, food, beverages---nice time. Probably didn't say proper goodbyes Sunday morning, but after hauling that pop-up off the hill it seemed like it was best to just keep going. Thanks guys; you know you always got my support, even if it is topsy turvy.[pictures on the web site]
 
Had to get on the road early Sunday, because Rat City ABATE had a Bar-B-Q scheduled for that afternoon. I was really pleased with the people who showed to take part, but a little disappointed in those who didn't---such is life. It was a great spread and a good time---if you weren't there you missed something. [got a few pictures on the web site]
 
If you've been waiting around for our yearly ride around Hood Canal (listen up Ed) it looks to be 9/19. I'll get the schedules for the boat and we'll just meet there---unless maybe you're coming from the south (I'm talking to you Donnie) then maybe we can meet at the Flotation Device---I'll get it all worked out over the next couple weeks, stay tuned.
 
Other Voices
______________________________________________________________________
Talking about Donnie---if you got something like this, respond to the e-mail address
 
Hi Irish, I have a friend who's looking for a Honda Rebel 250 for his wife,
How about adding that to your next e-mail
His name is Jason and his e-mail is porknbean@comcast.net
______________________________________________________________________
From Hoover, about a visit to old friends in Misery
 
Hey, Irish-just got back from visiting Kent and Susie in Missouri-boy, did we have a kick ass time. They may be coming out again next year-I'll see if I can get you some pics when I get them developed-Steve forgot the digital camera
______________________________________________________________________
And finally from Squirrel, about seeing me headed south toward Cowchip
 
Hey,   glad to hear from you again,  I saw you this past weekend I think it was,  been crazy around here.  You were flyin low on 167 heading south with some jerk in a trailer tailgatin your bike real close.  You gotta do something about that tailgator.  I see him followin you everywhere.
  anyway, I was goin the other way in the van,  oh ya, that would make it a friday that I saw ya huh??   see, told ya I was losin it.   From your email I know where you went now.   sounds like a good ride
___________________________________________________     
 
 
 
 
If Ya want me ta know somethin Ya gotta tell me.
irish_mckinney@hotmail.com
www.irishmckinney.spaces.live.com
 
Chicken Friday
Rat City ABATE Second Tuesday
www.ratcityabate.org  
 
 
Enough
Later
 
IRISH
 
TopHatTaxes@hotmail.com
(206)299-0375
 
reprinted at www.bikerfriendlybar.com

Hey Guys---Greetings from Coquille Oregon. This is where I consider my family headquarters to be, my father's parents lived here for as long as I can remember. Traveling over these backwoods roads brings back memories from long ago and deep down---visions of kilns glowing red in the growing darkness, logged hillsides just beginning to grow back and visions inspired by Ken Keesey of hanging mists, swollen rivers and the color green so deep and dark it hurt to look at it.
My elder cousin Jesse is in town for her fortieth High School reunion and since she is from Pensicola Florida and it's been well over a decade since we've seen each other, I thought four hundred miles, one way, on my part was not out of the question. I call Jesse my eldest cousin because she has ninteen days on me and I think it makes her feel good to think she can lord it over on me. Well Vroom, Vroom Jesse. Everyone wave and say "We love you Jesse!"
 
Let's see if we can get a little caught up---shall we? Two weeks ago Marjorie and I accepted an invitation to attend an event called Strutz Fest in Darrington Wa. It was a two day festival in a very nice amphitheater there just outside Darrington. Seventeen bands over two days in the foot hills of the North Cascades. The people presenting the event did an excellant job and waking up under the trees was sure nicer than the middle of a field. The two cops that were there just looked bored most of the time as the crowd and the promoters did most of the policing that needed doing (which wasn't much as far as I could tell.) The event was the same weekend as the Hydro races in Seattle, so if you're not that into fast boats and loud planes this is one to look for next year.
I think they're right in the pocket on the structure of the event; most of the acts were tribute bands, so the music was familiar. Bands such as: Helles Belles, Whiskey Creek, Heartless and Los Locos covered specific bands (think AC/DC, Lynard Skynard, Heart and ZZ Top) others were a best of from the fifties on up. Think we might do it again and see if anyone wants to go with next year---interested?
 
Sunday of last weekend I took part in the Amigos ride to support their drag bike. Lots of good friends and a very casual day---thanks Pete. The ride home with Cholly and Jimmy the Troll was fun---we'll have to do that again soon, Huh?
 
I would like to welcome the new coordinator of the Rat City ABATE Chapter---Chad Mall. He stood up and took it like a man---thanks Chad.
 
Susan---I believe what you might be looking for is Schmirnov--Smirnoff--Smearnoff (something like that) Lime.
 
Just a short one this time---lots of things to do out there, don't be a bump.
This is Irish with the low five from the hi-way. 
 
If Ya want me ta know somethin Ya gotta tell me.
irish_mckinney@hotmail.com
www.irishmckinney.spaces.live.com
 
Chicken Friday
Rat City ABATE Second Tuesday
www.ratcityabate.org  
 
 
Enough
Later
 
IRISH
 
TopHatTaxes@hotmail.com
(206)299-0375
 
reprinted at www.bikerfriendlybar.com

Hey Guys---It's so hard keeping up this time of year, there's so much going on.
Have to drop back two weeks again and thank Uncle Butch and Aunt Lynn for coming down to meet us at the Alki for a very nice Taco Thursday. If memory serves me Steve Bartel was also there and when we motored over to Slim's we got a chance to say "Hi!" to Marcus, it was a very pleasant evening.
 
That weekend I had to ride back over to Goldendale for an ABATE Board of Directors meeting. After the winds of Spring Opener weekend it wasn't something I was looking forward to. The ride over was pretty uneventful and when I got there, not knowing anyone, I went to a local "RV" park and arraigned for a spot of grass to set up the pop-up for the night. [I put RV in quotations because the range was everything from old buses to what may have been single wides. Many (most?) of these were in a semi-permanent parking status--it would have been very hard to move 'em without tearing them apart.] I spent a few hours sitting in the shade reading and enjoying the weather---yeah, you heard right.
 
After a while I saddled up and headed downtown to find a meal (and perhaps a refreshing beverage) and see if anyone else was in town yet. The first thing I spotted was Dutch hitting a parking space in front of a local food and drink establishment, so not to be left out I pulled in too. Come to find out there had been plans made to get whomever was available together for an evening; being the shy and retiring guy I am, I joined right in.
 
Before long we had half the room occupied with sleazy, greasy bikers. Had a chance to meet Mike Niday, the current Coordinator of the host Columbia Gorge Chapter, and some of his crew; get into some discussions with Mick Gillispie, state coordinator, and Mike Campbell, state Ambassador-at-large, and generally have a very nice time. Later we adjourned to Mike Niday's place for more discussion and perhaps a few more refreshing beverages. The evening ended up with Mick Gillispie and I back at the pop-up discussing theoretical politics and the implications of global warming before we called it quits for the day and he headed back to his motel.
 
Saturday morning, bright and bleary, I got up, packed up and headed over to the motel where everyone else was staying. The town of Goldendale had a parade scheduled that morning and the local Masons (we were to hold our meeting in the Masonic Lodge) had invited us to join them in the parade. I ran over, dropped the trailer at the Lodge, then hotfooted it back to hook up with everyone else and ride over to the staging area. The parade got started at full walking speed and knowing how hard that is to maintain I kinda hung back at the back and was just sorta pulling some brodies to keep myself amused. Next thing I know other people are doing things other than sitting two by two with the clutch held in---let the games begin. Thus was born the Washington State ABATE uncoordinated motorcycle drill team. No one was killed or injured during these exercises (not through want of trying)---don't try this at home without adult supervision.
 
Anyway, we had our meeting---and you don't really want to hear about that---and that evening trooped over to the house of  one of the members of Columbia Gorge Chapter for a great evening of Bar-B-Que and discussion. [Mike please pass along my thanks and also my regrets---I've misplaced my notes and am having a bout of CRS (can't remember shit) and can't bring up the names of our hosts for the evening---I'm sorry.]
 
The ride home was again uneventful.
 
Tuesday Rat City ABATE met.
 
Friday (7/17), Ray Albrecht and I headed south for the Cowchip Boogie. The Cowchip didn't happen last year because of ugly things that happened the year before and what with a fair number of events going away over the past few years it was good to see something come back. This event is old style, with a modicum of services, but with a great group of people running things. Bill, Kim and Debby---tell everyone involved we had a great time and if everything works I'll see you in the funny papers (or the pages of Thunder Press.) The runs down and back were fairly smooth, the event itself is filled with lots of things to keep short attention spans busy. If you want to attend a neat event and don't need a hair drier or Wi-Fi keep an eye out for next year.[pictures on the web site]
 
Spent most of the next week after Cowchip changing head gaskets in the Heritage. Got the bike back together just in time to ride over to a park in Burien and catch some old friends in a new endeavor. Got to catch a couple hours of a group called Manooghi Hi. If you're looking for something just a little different, but don't want to give up your rock n roll---keep an eye out for em.
 
Got a Chicken Friday for the first time in three weeks---KFC was starting to look good---glad I held out.
 
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Coming up:
 
7/31-8/1 Pine Springs Resort Backyard Blues Bash---in Goldendale, for more info go to www.pinespringsresort.net [flier on the web site]
 
7/31-8/1,2 Pedal and Piston Rendezvous---by ABATE of Lewis Co and 2 Brothers, in Centrailia at the Moose Lodge #1109 (1400 Grand Ave) [flier & directions on the web site]
 
7/31-8/1 Strutz Fest---in Darrington at the Whitehorse Mtn Amphitheater, for more info go to www.strutzfest.com  [flier on the web site]
 
8/8 Riverside Pub Hot-rod & Bike show---in Sumner (13704 Valley Ave E) 9:00am to 6:00pm---evenings entertainment by Snootch (9:00pm) [flier on the web site]
 
8/11 Rat City ABATE Second Tuesday---at the Emerald Green restaurant in Tukwila (13100 48th St) 6:00pm social/7:00pm general meeting 
 
8/14-16 Band of Brothers--Brother Fest---at Mcmillan Grange, Puyallup (12613 State Route 162 East) $20/person, $35/couple [flier on the web site]
 
8/15-16 South King County ABATE--State Parks Run---leaves the Performance Grill in Auburn (1525 A ST NE) at 10:00am--need to pre-register for camping $5/person for ride--$5/person for camping [flier on the web site]
 
8/22-23 Lewis County ABATE--Kickback Camp out---in Chehalis (370 Hamilton Rd) $25/member $30/Non-member [flier on the web site]  
 
8/29 Combined Fund Drive (CFD) Charity Poker Run---leaves Capital Campus 8:00am for more info go to www.cfd.wa.gov [flier on the web site]
<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
  
 
 
 
 
If Ya want me ta know somethin Ya gotta tell me.
irish_mckinney@hotmail.com
www.irishmckinney.spaces.live.com
 
Chicken Friday
Rat City ABATE Second Tuesday
www.ratcityabate.org  
 
 
Enough
Later
 
IRISH
 
TopHatTaxes@hotmail.com
(206)299-0375
 
reprinted at www.bikerfriendlybar.com

Hey Guys---last time we met everyone was just coming down from Spring Opener and we'll just let that be. The rest of the week was just that---rest.
 
On Saturday morning (7/27) I got up early (stop it Susan you're gonna hurt yourself) and rode to Auburn to catch the beginning of R and R American Cycles Harley Enthusiasts Motorcycle Show. The objective was to raise money to help cover the cost of prosthetic devices for injured individuals who didn't have the money or the insurance to cover the cost themselves. I was only able to stay for a while because I had committed (or should have been) to another ride. But, fear not for the intrepid Turtle Ken was there to represent us. I have a few pics on my web site, but for a full view of the day visit
www.washingtonbikerinformationguide.com and look for "biker pictures." 
 
The other thing I had to do that day was to hook up with my buddies the Apples and go on their benefit ride for the Family Readiness Group, an organization associated with the Army that supports the family and friends of individuals on active duty.
 
We started at the Royal Bear where I joined Kato and Ody and couple of others for a photo op on an overpass to Highway 167. We then caught up with the rest of the ride at the L&M Firehouse in Orting. From there through backwoods by-ways to the Blue Moon in Eatonville where a classic car show was in progress---kinda nice. From Eatonville to the Round Up on Hwy 7 and finally Uncle Sam's Bar & Grill in Spanaway. The weather couldn't have been better---Old Man scheduled a great event. [pictures on the web site]
 
Sunday Marjorie, Hangin' Chad and I went out to preview the Coast route, at least as far as Enumclaw---very nice day.
 
Had a very nice Taco Thursday on the second. Met up with about eight bikes at the Barrel and rode down to the Alki for Tacos and refreshing beverages. From the Alki we jammed over the top of the West Seattle Bridge then took the "no-no" right turn at First Ave and ran south on First to Slim's Last Chance. A lot of people hadn't been there before and I think it's kind of a neat place.
 
Chicken Friday
 
Then it was Saturday the Fourth of July. Up early and check the bike out---make sure the tires were UP in pressure. Hit the Chevron and make it to the Barrel---Hangin' Chad, Bonnie Boop and Gary were pulling into the gas station as we were pulling away. Breakfast at the Barrel (Prime Rib and eggs MMM MMM) and at 10:00am sharp eight bikes headed north to catch 509 going south.
 
Off the end of 509 and down the hill into  Des Moines to the parking lot of the Yardarm. There we more than doubled up and eighteen bikes headed up Kent-Des Moines road and took a right on 16th. Another right down the hill into Redondo and a chug along the water front. On the way out of Redondo, half way up the hill we took that right the Shark showed us a few weeks before and zig zagged our way through the little community until we hit Dash Point Road and a right at the light. Again right at Lakota Park took us onto one of my favorite short stretches of road in the world---but stuck behind a mini-van driver who drove with one foot on the brake tended to mitigate the thrills and chills (Ho Hum). A left at the treatment plant took us past Dash Point Park and around the end of the bluff where we descended toward the Tacoma Tide Flats. Just past Eleventh street we hit the first left up the hill; a nice little twisty turn road that put us back on the bluff in North Tacoma at Federal Way's backside.
 
We worked our way through North Tacoma to 356th then straight through Federal Way to Hwy 99. Across Pacific Highway a short cutoff road took us to Enchanted Parkway and past the Enchanted Park itself, still just gearing up for the Holiday. A very short time later we were at one of our few pinch points of the day, a left turn from Enchanted Parkway to Military Road South northbound. But Road Captain Yogi was on the job and executed a one man (with passenger) road block to ensure that all of us got through the intersection as a group---took a load off my mind. Soon we turned right to find the one way road down the hill to West Valley Highway and a hop and a skip later we were at the Royal Bear in Algona.
 
At the Bear we found people standing in the parking lot---the place wasn't going to open until noon, even though we checked the week prior. Oh well. Someone ran off to find someone to open the place and we did get some beverages served just before it was time to leave. Pulling out of the lot we turned north again on West Valley and a right just after passing under state highway 18 on West Main. We followed Main Street right through the middle of Auburn in the opposite direction of the famous Auburn Veterans Day Parade and let it lead us to the Green Valley Road where we made a quick stop at Green Valley Meats with twenty-eight bikes. A leisurely pace up the valley past Flaming Geyser State Park brought us to our second pinch point of the day---the left turn across state route 169 to head us toward Black Diamond. Yogi again did a yeoman's job  and everyone safely made the turn and entered Black Diamond.
 
In Black Diamond we made the turn that leads to the one land bridge that spans the Green river Gorge. Soon after the bridge there's a switchback that leads to Cumberland and the City Hall Saloon. The Saloon was open when they said they would be and the parking lot was half full of bikes. This would be our long break with everyone having a chance to recharge, have a refreshing beverage and get something to eat if they needed. But all too soon it was time to head for the top. This would be the easy part, once we took the left onto Route 410 in Enumclaw there was no stopping and only one speed change. The road follows the path of the White River; as we ride up the river rolls down. The only community we pass through is Greenwater that sits on the north bank of the White River, that would be our one and only slow down before the road to Crystal; and that wouldn't last long.
 
At the bottom of the road to Crystal we turn left and dash for the top. I count the bikes as they pull into the plaza at the skiing ticket booths; 48. Never have we brought so many bikes. After everyone is parked many hit the restrooms which are mercifully open---a good reason to bring a ride here. Then it's our Kodak moment as we gather everyone on the steps. It has become a tradition on this ride to remember, what we call the toast at the top. Kato has been told that he will be expected to offer the first toast at the top; he offers a toast to those that ride. Next comes a toast to a friend who has passed; many echo this sentiment. Then the expected (and welcome) bring them home safe, unharmed and welcome. Finally my toast to my bride of twenty-six years that day and we're ready to Coast.
 
There's some milling about, then I shout "Ladies and gentlemen, stop your engines. Are you ready?------Let's Coast!" and I push off. Down across the plaza onto the parking lot, many go deep into the parking lot before heading back up to catch the road down the hill. I like to circle around the top of the lot and dive down onto the road. As I enter the road I look over and spot Yogi coming up on me, as we jockey for position Kato comes roaring past like he was shot from a cannon; he never looks back. Yogi and I battle back and forth for a while before he finally takes the lead just before the last corner. Kato and Ody are standing in the road waiting for us at the bottom; we pull in and watch the others do the same---everyone smiles and small pockets form as discussion ensues about each groups small piece of the coast.
 
Skooter pulls in, he's my clean-up and when he hits the bottom, I know everyone is down. We saddle back up and head back for the Natches Tavern in Greenwater where everyone once again relives the few moments that are The Coast. People head off as they need to, to finish the rest of their Independence Day---for me it's come real close to a perfect day. [pictures on the web site]              
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Coming Up:
 
7/10-12 Pacific County Abate Wildwood Blues Rally---for information contact Don Mcguire (360)642-8907 [flier on the web site]
 
7/12 Rat City ABATE adopt a road---meet at the Barrel 9:00am, leave for clean up 10:00am---southbound 509 from Glendale to 148th---you don't have to be a member to join in
 
7/12 Sky Valley ABATE Antique & Classic Motorcycle Show---in conjunction with the Sultan Shindig, registration opens 9:00am [flier on the web site]
 
7/14 Rat City ABATE second Tuesday---meets at the Emerald Green Restaurant (13100 48th Tukwila) 6:00pm social/ 7:00pm general meeting---you don't have to be a member to attend
 
7/17-19 Cowlitz County ABATE Cowchip Boogie 2009---opens noon Friday at Riverdale Raceway (7255 Spirit Lake HWY Toutle WA) $25 member/$30 non-member [flier on the web site]
 
7/18 South King County ABATE 2nd Annual Ride 'Round the Mountain---starts 10:00am at the Yella Beak in Enumclaw $10 per hand[flier on the web site]
 
7/18 ADG 17th Anniversary Party---Group ride leaves the L&M Firehouse at 4:00pm $10 per person/$15 per couple--for more info contact Old Man (253)737-0165 [flier on the web site]
 
7/18 Forgotten Veterans Run Hosted by Warrior Brotherhood VM/C---registration begins at 9:30am in the Olympic Village parking lot Gig Harbor $15 per rider $5 per passenger [flier on the web site]
 
7/18 International Association of Machinists & Aerospace Workers #160 run for the Dogs---registration begins 8:00am at Destination H-D in Fife $25 per person [flier on the web site]
 
7/18 Band of Brothers 2nd Annual Summer Fun Run---Sign up 9:30am at Ricky J's (6805 176th ST E Puyallup) $10 per poker hand [flier on the web site]
 
7/19 Burgers, Bikers & Babes Motorcycle Rally---starts 8:00am at the Triple X Root Beer Drive-In (98 Ne Gilman Blvd Issaquah WA) [flier on the web site]
<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
 
 
 
If Ya want me ta know somethin Ya gotta tell me.
irish_mckinney@hotmail.com
www.irishmckinney.spaces.live.com
 
Chicken Friday
Rat City ABATE Second Tuesday
www.ratcityabate.org  
 
 
Enough
Later
 
IRISH
 
TopHatTaxes@hotmail.com
(206)299-0375
 
reprinted at www.bikerfriendlybar.com

Hey Guys---I ran the route today and here's what I've come up with---
 
Leave the Barrel 10:00am sharp---and you know I mean that. If you want breakfast at the Barrel, get there early enough to be done when it's time to go (Wilma pee before you leave home:.) We will make a swing through the Yardarm parking lot on the way through Des Moines---if you want to hook up there 10:15pm would be a good time to be there.
 
Leave the Royal Bear Noon O,clock---we should have twenty to thirty minutes at the Bear to get those types of things done that need to get done.
 
Leave the City Hall Saloon in Cumberland (this is important--the place where we were going to start the dash to the top will not be open when we need them) at 2:00pm---we should have enough time at the Saloon to have a refreshing beverage or two and some food if you need it. You're going to need about sixty miles worth of gas coming out of Enumclaw so please plan accordingly.
 
We plan to coast at 3:00pm (or so)---Kato would you be so kind as to be prepared to make the first "toast at the top" please! Anyone is welcome (nay encouraged) to contribute a "toast at the top" so feel free to express yourself in that manner (you all know the first requirement of a toast, don't you?)
 
After the coast we will run back to the Natches in Greenwater for a beer and a dog before everyone trots off to engage in their own Independence Day celebrations. I'm excited.
 
Please feel free to share this missive, and remember----No Pins, No Posters, No T-shirts, No Sponsors--just us.
 
I'll try to get one more letter out before Saturday---but if you don't hear from me we'll see you on the Fourth.    
....................................................................................................................................... 
Sam---you don't need Squirrel to come with.
 
Dan---can you get info to Rhino and that crowd? Also I would like directions to where you're going to be that evening if that's OK? 
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
 
If Ya want me ta know somethin Ya gotta tell me.
irish_mckinney@hotmail.com
www.irishmckinney.spaces.live.com
 
Chicken Friday
Rat City ABATE Second Tuesday
www.ratcityabate.org  
 
 
Enough
Later
 
IRISH
 
TopHatTaxes@hotmail.com
(206)299-0375
 
reprinted at www.bikerfriendlybar.com

Hey Guys---It's been a few days since we talked. I had hoped to send a post card from Spring Opener last week, but there was no connection---more on that in a bit---for now, return with me to those thrilling days of yesteryear, about twelve days ago on a Thursday.
 
I got a wild hair and took off to Enumclaw and the Yella Beak for Taco Thursday. There I met up with "Princess" Karen Blakley and some of her crew from the South King County Chapter (SKCC) of ABATE. I had a very nice evening meeting everyone and even had a refreshing beverage purchased for me by the aforementioned "Princess". Had a nice visit with Big Rick Ward from the East Pierce County Chapter (EPCC) and even spent a few minutes with Rona Smith, the State Secretary. All in all a "nice" evening---glad I went.
 
Friday---Chicken Friday of course, but a special Chicken Friday. There was a sort of a reunion going on in Seattle and numerous people from different parts of the country were coming in to take part in the events; so there were special guests for Chicken Friday. First my good friend Craig Ferguson and his wife Trish from south of LaLa land flew in to join us---Craig and I worked together many years ago in the deep dark ages of the Seattle music scene and have continued to stay in touch, we are allowed to intrude on them whenever we manage to sneak through that part of the country and it's always good to see them. Next came my friend Andrea (currently residing in Indiana ?) and a coterie of her local friends who also over lap that deep dark age of the Seattle music scene---think eighties. It was good to see her and have Ava, Ray and Terry show up for their first (but not last ?) Chicken Friday. Thank You to the local readers who showed to help make the early evening a festive one. (From what I've seen the rest of the evening continued in that festive vein at Slim's Last Chance---Me, I had to pick up Marjorie at the airport after a two week absence.......)
 
Saturday was a dash to Tacoma to attend the fiftieth wedding anniversary of Ron and Vertie, the parents of my friend Ernie, the owner of Tacoma V-Twin. We have known these people for close onto twenty-five years and the friendship runs deep. While their health has been rocky over the last few years, their spirits are strong. It was a great pleasure to be included in this celebration----I would have crawled over broken glass the whole way there to be in attendance. But, I'm so glad I didn't have to.
 
Unfortunately we were unable to stay for the whole show because we had committed to be at another event in Ballard that same evening. It was the twenty-fifth anniversary show of the Squirrels. So, it was head down jamming from Tacoma to Ballard to make the Tractor in time for the show. We made it with time to spare for some socializing with friends before the Squirrels took the stage. If you're not familiar with the Squirrels there are still a few shows left to catch their act, Capt Rob Morgan is pulling the plug this year---look for them at the Ballard Seafood Fest and their last Christmas show at the Tractor in December---I'll keep you informed.
 
Sunday was the first of Rat City ABATE's bi-monthly breakfast rides. Six bikes showed at the Barrel for breakfast and ride that took us as far out as Kapowsin---good job Denette. Mike Tomak drew low card and has the pleasure of setting up the next breakfast ride in August----I can't wait.[pictures on the web site]
 
Whew---I don't know about you, but I'm tired after all that---and we haven't even gotten to Spring Opener yet. Think I'll take a nap first and then we'll deal with that...................................................................................
 
Ok, back from my nap.
 
Most of the first part of last week dealt with getting ready for the biggest party of the year that ABATE of Washington puts on. I had already had the trailer out for the jaunt to Ione (Hi!! Susan how are things going? Give Matt my love) so I had a good idea how things would roll---it was just getting everything together for two of us for four days, without knowing what exactly we were getting into. It was a new venue for the state and there were a lot of unknowns.
 
We met Mike and Steve at the Barrel, Thursday morning, and rode to Cle Elum for breakfast where we met members of the Rebels and Tacoma ABATE. From there thirteen bikes (seven of which were pulling trailers) passed through Ellensburg and into the canyon of the Yakima River. At Yakima we took a break at the local Hog Shop and two more bikes caught up with us. It was I-82 to Buena hook a right through the old party ground of Toppenish and almost straight south to Goldendale.
 
Thursday afternoon was; set camp, provision up with what we weren't able to carry, get the lay of the land and party. Friday morning we took part in the Poker Run and got to see some of the country. They have what they call wind farms there---and they are there for good reason, the dominant theme for the weekend ended up being WIND. While the facilities were very good the unceasing wind really did detract from the whole event, it never stopped. Saturday the silly biker games were held in a stadium, and while this may have looked good, it sure didn't have the intimacy of the past. Music in the evenings was held in a dirt floored open building; while this was warmer than it would have been outside (and it was cold in the evening) the informality of the past was gone.
 
The bright spots of the weekend were: the hospitality of the locals, the obvious hard work that had gone into making the event a success, and the comradeship of an estimated 1,500 participants. I hate to be a downer; as Mom said "If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all." I guess to put it in a nut shell---I wasn't inspired--->[there are no pictures on the web site]
 
The ride home was tough and damp.
 
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Coming up:
 
6/27 ADG Benefit Run to Benefit the Family Readiness Group---Leaves the Royal Bear in Algona 11:00am $10/person $15/couple Last stop Uncle Sam's Bar & Grill Spanaway----how about breakfast at the Barrel at 9:00am and then head for Algona? [flier on the web site]
 
7/4 Crystal Mountain Coast---No Sponsors, No T-shirts, No Pins, No Fliers just us----at this point let's plan to leave the Barrel at 10:00am and the Crystal Bistro in Enumclaw at 2:00pm---we'll coast at 3:00pm. Anyone having ideas for intervening stops let me know---I will put out a short letter early next week with a finalized route.
 
7/10-12 Wild Wildwood Blues Rally---Long Beach WA call 360-842-2131 for details [flier on the web site]
 
7/12 Rat City ABATE Adopt A Road---meet at the Barrel 9:00am help beautify America
 
7/12 Sky Valley Chapter of ABATE Antique & Classic Motorcycle Show at the Sultan Shindig all day[flier on the web site]
 
7/14 Second Tuesday Rat City ABAte meeting---at the Emerald Green Restaurant 13100 48th Tukwila 6:00pm social hour/7:00pm meeting Everyone's welcome
 
7/17-19 Cowchip Boogie---at the Riverdale Raceway on Spirit Lake Hwy (Exit 49 I-5) $25 ABATE members $30 non members[flier on the web site]
 
7/18 South King County Chapter of ABATE Ride Round the Mountain---Starts at the Yella Beak 10:00am $10/poker hand Benefits Susan G Komen Foundation[flier on the web site]
 
7/18 ADG 17th Anniversary Party---Leaves L&M Firehouse in Orting 4:00pm $10 single/$15 couple[flier on the web site]
 
7/19 Forgotten Veterans Run Hosted by Warrior Brotherhood VM/C---leaves Olympic Village Parking Lot (Hwy 16 Gig Harbor) 10:45am ends Legend H-D Silverdale $15/Rider $5/Passenger---BBQ and music after the ride
 
7/19 Burgers, Bikers & Babes at the Triple X Root Beer Drive-In in Issaquah---music, food, vendors---free 8:00am on
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If Ya want me ta know somethin Ya gotta tell me.
irish_mckinney@hotmail.com
www.irishmckinney.spaces.live.com
 
Chicken Friday
Rat City ABATE Second Tuesday
www.ratcityabate.org  
 
 
Enough
Later
 
IRISH
 
TopHatTaxes@hotmail.com
(206)299-0375
 
reprinted at www.bikerfriendlybar.com

Hey Guys---When last we spoke---> I was in the thriving metropolis of Ione. I think I got outa town just under the three day wire, cause I felt like I was really beginning to stink. The hospitality I was shown by Susan and Matt was unequaled. I was allowed to roll in the dirt, lift and carry heavy objects, swing sledge hammers and stand in the broiling heat. Each morning I was awakened by a charming serenade outside my window by some small feathered creatures at about 4:30am. The only thing I didn't get was a refreshing dip in the Pend Oreille River.
 
OK seriously folks, I COULD NOT have been treated better. It was my pleasure to help on their building project in any small and inept manner that I was allowed. The intent of their endeavor is of the purest nature and I only hope that I am allowed to contribute in the future. The morning that Susan and I sat and watched the owls swooping from tree to tree, with the sound of the geese on the water was as close to pure joy as one can find---thank you my friends, we'll take that ride next time, there were other things of a higher priority this time. Please visit www.tohonor.org 
 
The ride back was pretty much straight lines---it was straight south to Spokane and hook a right. After all I had an appointment with Chicken Friday, which I made with a little over two hours to spare. The bike ran well and the trailer was not a problem---I always hold my breath when I do repair work, cause I just don't believe it.
 
On the seventh day he rested.
 
On Sunday morning I actually was up about the time the small feathered creatures would have begun their serenade. I was on m way to Marysville to take part in the Cruise4Kids. This ride started at Sound H-D and hit seven Harley dealerships in six counties ending at Legend Haley-Davidson in Silverdale. Most of the ride was hammering freeway (and in the Seattle metropolitan area at that), but a new friend by the name of Ron put a shine on the day as he led me through Shelton, Belfair, Effingdahl Pass, past Holly and through Seabeck on our way to Silverdale. The Rhodies were in bloom---very nice. I let the Ferry do the heavy lifting on the way home.[pictures on the web site]
 
Yesterday was bitter sweet as I rode out to Buckley with other friends to support our mutual friend, Hawk, at the funeral of his stepfather. It was good to see the show of support that rallied in the middle of the day, in the middle of the week. The gentleman hosting (celebrating? presiding over?) the event did a great job---it truly was a celebration and not a mourning, I think that says so much more about, not only the person of the hour, but the family and friends involved.
 
I have to take a slight pause for the cause here--and ask any of you who are in the area of Spanaway, or would like to be in the area of Spanaway, of a Thursday evening, please drop by Uncle Sam's Bar and Grill for some Taco Thursday fun, starring...cue the trumpets--up strings---hit that spot...TA DA..."SAM THE HOWLER". (She has been nagging on me to get this mention in---and come to think about it, some of the things she has threatened to do sound a little interesting hmmmmm!) Sam's at Sam's until closing every Thursday---ask her about her hand made jewelry---it's pretty cool stuff. 
 
Did I get it all in Sam? We OK now? You're not gonna send Squirrel after me are you?
 
A very special Chicken Friday this week. We have special guests coming in from all over the country---I would deem it an honor if you took a little time to drop by the Barrel and say Hi!! See you tomorrow? At the Barrel? About 6:30pm? We'll be done before the Croaky starts.
 
><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><>
Coming Up:
6/13 The Squirrels 25th Anniversary Show---at the Tractor in Ballard (5213 Ballard Ave NW) 9:30pm show time $12 at the door [flier on the web site]
 
6/13 Pervert and Hoovers Spring Opener Primer Party---Directions at the Kapowsin Tavern [flier on the web site]
 
6/13 BFE Poker Run Benefiting Mary Bridge Children's Hospital---Starting at Lady Luck Cowgirl Up (14114 Pacific Ave in Tacoma) 11:00am $10 per person $15 per couple [flier on the web site]
 
6/14 Rat City ABATE first, Sunday Breakfast ride---meet at the Barrel 9:00am for breakfast...everyone over 21 welcome
 
6/19-21 ABATE of Washington Spring Opener---in Goldendale at the Klickitat County Fairgrounds...I have advanced tickets for sale at $5 off let me know--21 and over----we'll be leaving to go over Thursday and meeting people for breakfast in Cle Elum (11:00am in Cle Elum for breakfast) [flier on the web site]
 
6/27 ADG Benefit run to support Family Readiness Group---leaves Royal Bear in Algona 11:00am $10 per person $15 per couple [flier on the web site]
 
7/4 Crystal Mountain Coast---no fliers, no pins, no t-shirts, no sponsors...and this is not a race---anyone have any ideas about what you would like to see happen this year? details to come....
 
7/12 Rat City Road clean up---meet at the Barrel 9:00am...come beautify America (at least some of our part)
 
7/14 Rat City Chapter of ABATE monthly meeting---6:00pm social 7:00pm business at the Emerald Green Restaurant (13100 48th Tukwila)
<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><
 
 
If Ya want me ta know somethin Ya gotta tell me.
irish_mckinney@hotmail.com
www.irishmckinney.spaces.live.com
 
Chicken Friday
Rat City ABATE Second Tuesday
www.ratcityabate.org  
 
 
Enough
Later
 
IRISH
 
TopHatTaxes@hotmail.com
(206)299-0375
 
reprinted at www.bikerfriendlybar.com

Hey Guys---Greetings from Ione, Washington.
Now you may ask---"Irish, What are you doing in Ione, Washington?"
 
Well I'm here to meet someone I've worked with for almost two years and have never met, Susan Swan, my editor from Thunder Press. I headed out Tuesday morning with the pop-up trailer, I need to get it out and run it around before Spring Opener (you ready Kato?---how bout you Squirrel, you gonna make it?) I just hit the freeway running and took my first fill up at Vantage. By George, I was looking for some two lane, so grabbed an exit and headed for Ephrata and Soap Lake, at Coulee City, I caught Route 2 and turned east once again. At Creston I hit the Miles cut-off and came out on state route 25 (sound familiar Gimp? but here's where we deviate from Gramma). At Cedona I followed the Addy road to US 395 and Colville. At Colville it's SR 20 (the one that is the North Cascades Highway), another right to Tiger and a quick jog left to Ione. Did everyone keep up with this on your official, authorized, e-mail maps? (Troll, you still there?)
 
Susan and her husband, Matt, are in the midst of a massive building project, here in the middle of some of the most beautiful country in the world and I hope to be able to tell you about it in the future. They've already put me to work and I'm stiff and sore.
 
Ed, let me thank you for turning me on to something absolutely amazing and I hope to thank you in a more public way sometime in the very near future.
 
I'll head back in the morning---don't forget the Cruise4Kids starting In Marysville Sunday Morning---sign up starts 7:00am
 
<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<,,
Other Voices: My very lovely Cousin Linda's response to my last somewhat snipey e-mail---
 

Hey Guys---the weather is so nice I can hardly sit still.
 
Last Wednesday went up north a ways to check out this little gig I been hearing about called "Backfire Motorcycle Night." Hooked up with my friend Karen and her friend Ray to see what the stir was about---I liked it. It's an eclectic motorcycle gathering up on Northwest 17th and Leary in Ballard. Its at a place called The Bit Saloon (and is supposed to include a place called the Station across the street, but they're closed for renovation or something) and is a kick. Pretty much any kind of two wheel transportation goes and you can find all kinds. It happens the third Wednesday of the month, so write it on your calendar and go check it out---but have an open mind and no rice burner jokes.[pictures on the web site]
 
The week end was great with a nice Chicken Friday starting it off, family over on Saturday, to friends on Sunday and Memorial Day Monday.
 
We hooked up with Mark the Shark Monday and headed down to Destination H-D to hook up with the Vet's MC and ride on down to Olympia. With three hundred plus bikes riding together to Oly it was a real cluster in the making. But wait!!! It was almost like someone knew what they were doing---Oh My Gawd, what a relief. At a cool Fifty mph the ride was very enjoyable---and I can't say enough about the professional way things were dealt with---believe me I let 'em know.
 
In Olympia there was a nice ceremony with easily five hundred bikes in attendance. All the usual things you would expect, but with that down home rough around the edges feel that makes you comfortable about the whole thing. I liked it.
 
A stop at the Nisqually Cafe on the way home, then try to figure out where all these other vehicles were coming from and going to.[pictures on the web site]
 
OK, so it seems that I got an e-mail from my cousin Linda a while ago and didn't get back to her with a personal response, all she got was one of these newsy, full of facts, personable, entertaining e-mails---instead of dead silence. Alright Linda I'm sorry for not addressing a personal response to you---feel better now? Linda by the way lives in Reno, so should you be in the World's Biggest Little City (or is it the World's Littlest Big City I can never remember) stop in and say Hi. Linda said you're all welcome for dinner or if you get there early enough--breakfast, and if you need a place to crash I'm absolutely sure you'll be welcome. Everyone wave to Linda and say howdy to my cousin whom I sure hope can take a joke (now how do I make one of those smiley winky things that has just a bit of a smirk?) OUCH--damn Linda not so hard!!!!
 
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Coming Up:
 
5/29 The Picketts at the Tractor Tavern
 
5/30 ABATE of Washington Freedom Run---leave the Gwinwood in Olympia at Noon O'clock to ride to the Capitol---if you don't know where the Gwinwood is, be on the Capital Steps at 12:30pm [flier on the web site]
 
6/7 Cruise4Kids---breakfast and registration at Sound Harley in Marysville from 7:00am to 9:00am---hits seven dealerships to end at Legends H-D in Silverdale--for more info go to www.cruise4kids.org [route map on the web site]
 
6/9 Rat City ABATE monthly meeting---6:00pm social hour, 7:00pm business meeting at the Emerald Green Restaurant in Tukwila (13100 48th S) check out the Rat City ABATE Group on Facebook
 
6/13 The Squirrels 25th Anniversary show at the Tractor---part of the death with dignity retirement tour[flier on the web site]
 
6/13 Pervert and Hoovers Spring Opener Primer Party---Directions at the Kapowsin Tavern [flier on the web site]
 
6/13 BFE Poker Run for Mary Bridge Children's Hospital---Starts at Lady Luck Cowgirl Up (14114 Pacific Ave in Tacoma) last bike out 11:00am
 
6/14 Rat City ABATE's first breakfast ride---be at the meeting to learn the breakfast stop
 
6/19-21 ABATE of Washington Spring Opener in Goldendale---for details go to www.abate-wa.org --I have advanced tickets available---if you want to go over Thursday, we're meeting at the Sunset Restaurant in Cle Elum at 11:00am for breakfast [flier on the web site]
 
6/27 ADG Benefit for the Family Readiness Group---Leaves the Royal Bear in Algona at 11:00am---ends at Uncle Sam's in Spanaway [flier on the web site
 
7/4 Crystal Mountain Coast---no pins, no fliers, no t-shirts, no sponsors--just us...details coming soon
 
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
 
 
if Ya keep it a secret, I won't know
 
But: 
If Ya want me ta know somethin Ya gotta tell me.
irish_mckinney@hotmail.com
www.irishmckinney.spaces.live.com
 
Chicken Friday
Rat City ABATE Second Tuesday
www.ratcityabate.org  
 
 
Enough
Later
 
IRISH
 
TopHatTaxes@hotmail.com
(206)299-0375
 
reprinted at www.bikerfriendlybar.com

Hey Guys---Some sunshine, some rain---everything is growing like it's the middle of Spring. Oh...yeah...it is.
 
New language to the State of Washington helmet law, limiting our "helmet is a helmet" thing that got established a few years ago. Not quite sure how this will work, but now I think you have to have a manufacturers' statement inside your helmet. So stuff that may have been legal a few years ago or anything that has had the interior modified, may no longer be legal. But the new law does not go into effect until 7/26/2009. I know of people who have gotten tickets already, based on the new law, court should throw it out. Don't be a sap and roll over, exercise your right to go to court, even if you're wrong make them prove it (and pay to prove it) that is the way the system is supposed to work.
 
Chicken Friday this last week was amazing. What looked to be a slow casual evening, turned into a rocking get together. People showed from all over and we had three tables going before it was time to leave. Pencil in the twelfth of June (6/12/200) for a very special Chicken Friday---it looks like there will be some far out of towners showing up to eat a little Chicken; then we'll do the Squirrel's show at the Tractor the next evening.
 
Saturday was gorgeous, had a seminar in Tacoma, so was inside most of the day---but the ride to and fro was very nice.
 
Sunday hooked up with Bonnie Boop and Gary for the Snohomish Ride through. As you know the Old Snohomish Antique & Classic Motorcycle Show was cancelled. But an informal notion got passed around to be in Snohomish anyhow---so we did. We left here 11:00am for a hotfoot ride up there, we rolled in about noon o'clock and there were plenty of bikes, but nothing like when the show was happening in the past. We rode up to the top of the hill and found a place to park the bikes so we could walk around town a little.
 
There were quite a few cops (10-12) all in a group across the street from the Oxford Saloon, but everything seemed to be very casual. We walked the street checking things out and didn't seem to sense any edginess or bad feelings anywhere---everyone seemed to be in a fairly good mood. Completing our circuit we hung out outside the Oxford for a while and while we were there the Bandidos rode in, occasioning some cheers from some of the sidewalk crowd. After that we went into the Oxford and had a refreshing beverage,while there the Apples showed up and it was like old home week, sure was good to see some of them boys.   http://www.heraldnet.com/article/20090519/NEWS01/705199868#Bikers.arrive.in.Snohomish.then.police
Here is a link to the Everett Herald on line and the article they posted to represent the day.
 
Not long after, I finished my water and we had a nice long ride home through Fall City, Issaquah and Ravensdale.
 
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Coming up
 
5/20 Backfire Moto---at the Bit Saloon and The Station in Ballard (4818 17th Ave NW) not quite sure what this is all about, but it happens on the third Wednesday of the month. I was invited by a friend and I'll let you know what I find out. 
 
5/25 Olympia Thunder Run---leaves Destination H-D at 11:00am and Northwest H-D at 12:00pm to go to the Vietnam Veteran's Memorial in Olympia---think I'll try to leave about 9:00am and take a nice ride down the back way to Destination. [flier on the web site]
 
5/29 The Picketts Reunion and the Pooh Bah's 60th birthday party celebration at the Tractor Tavern
 
5/30 ABATE of Washington Freedom Run---ride to the Capitol---meet at the Gwinwood at 12:00pm--contact "Top" 360-891-3840 for information [flier on the web site]
 
6/9 Rat City ABATE meeting 6:00pm social, 7:00pm business meeting at the Emerald Green Restaurant (13100 48th in Tukwila) bring a friend
 
6/12 Special Chicken Friday with out of town guests at the Barrel (112th and 1st Ave S) about 6:30pm until the Croaky starts 
 
6/13 Pervert and Hoover's Spring Opener Primer Party at their place (32308 129th Ave E Graham) Directions at the Kapowsin Tavern [flier on the web site]
 
6/13 The Squirrels farewell tour at the Tractor Tavern in Burien----want to go with me Squirrel?---you can come too Sam. [flier on the web site]
 
6/14 Rat City ABATE's first bi-monthly breakfast ride---details to come
 
6/19-21 ABATE of Washington Spring Opener in Goldendale---I have advanced tickets if anyone is interested ($20 members $25 non-members---at the gate $25 & $30) [flier on the web site]
 
7/4 Crystal Mountain Coast---no pins, no sponsors, no t-shirts, just us----details coming, stay tuned.
 
7/12 Sky Valley ABATE Antique & Classic Motorcycle Show at the Sultan Shindig {flier on the web site]
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
            
I'd love to hear from ya---cause 
 
If Ya want me ta know somethin Ya gotta tell me.
irish_mckinney@hotmail.com
www.irishmckinney.spaces.live.com
 
Chicken Friday
Rat City ABATE Second Tuesday
www.ratcityabate.org  
 
 
Enough
Later
 
IRISH
 
TopHatTaxes@hotmail.com
(206)299-0375
 
reprinted at www.bikerfriendlybar.com (sometimes)

Hey Guys---Just sitting here looking out the window at the steady drizzle falling from the grey sky and thinking back to this last weekend with longing.
Friday was very nice, good friends getting together at the Barrel over Chicken dinner talking about the coming weekend. Many were planning to head for Cle Elum and the Kitty City Run, others to Tacoma for the Tacoma ABATE Dice Run. Heard from the Kitty City people and they had great weather, even into the eighties in some places.
 
We headed to Tacoma,on Saturday, and while it was chilly at the start, there was that promise of warmer weather to come. We were in Tacoma at Uncle Sam's early enough to watch people come in and hook up with our friends Jaybird and Pam (and) Donnie and Rachel, a great group to spend a great day with. Within minutes of leaving the start point we had, for all intents and purposes, thrown away the route directions and began to find our own way from one stop to the next. In fact we were so late getting to the Maple Valley stop that the dice handlers had already packed up and left. At that point we decided it might make good sense to get to the Right Spot (the last stop of the day) before everyone had packed up and gone home. It was at this point we joined up with Lyle Coyle and the Mailman, both of them riding their Shovelheads, and found the shortest line between two points.
 
After finishing activities at the Right Spot, we took our time coming home via some of our favorite back roads. I slept well Saturday evening. [pictures on the web site]
 
Speaking of pictures on the web site, I forgot to mention in my last letter that there are pictures of the Downtown H-D Grand Opening there and Jerilee sent pictures of Marjorie and me on the Sporty (gee thanks Jerilee--how do I do one of those winky things with its tongue sticking out?) and they're there too. www.irishmckinney.spaces.live.com
 
Sunday was our regularly scheduled Adopt-A-Highway road clean up for Rat City ABATE. We met at the Barrel and seven of us went out to beautify America. The late Steve Bartell Showed after we had already been bending and grunting for a while on the road. We worked about an hour and a half then adjourned back to the Barrel to replenish our fluid levels, then each to their own devices to celebrate mothers in their own way.
 
Monday was Charles "Wolfman" Darneille's last ride. By then it was again grey and damp when I wheeled the Heritage from the garage. I left early enough that I could take Pac Highway and two lanes to Tacoma (I was a little stiff and sore from the weekend). I was pretty sure where I was going, but Mom taught me ten minutes early is on time; sometimes I take that a little to the extreme. At the funeral home there were already bikes in the parking lot. I pulled in and began the wait to see who all would show. It had sprinkled off and on on the ride down and people there, knowing I had come from the north, were concerned about the weather moving from the north. They didn't need to be, once we were on the road the clouds parted and the temperature rose. Even though we passed through spots where it was evident it had rained, perhaps, only moments before, it was a dry ride all the way to the Tahoma National Cemetery.
 
Fifty-five bikes pulled into the cemetery grounds and with the addition of the Patriot Guard, it was a very respectable showing for a mid-day Monday event. The service was concise, to the point and moving. Once again we adjourned to the Right Spot. [pictures on the web site]
 
Usually at this point I would talk about coming events, but today I want to talk about just one thing---Sunday. This Sunday is supposed to be the Old Snohomish Antique & Classic Motorcycle Show, but as you know by now, it's not happening. My understanding is that negotiations with local law enforcement broke down over cost and the event was cancelled. I propose we ride through Snohomish. I have heard that others will be patronizing the local businesses to show there are no hard feelings, but isn't that getting the milk without buying the cow? If the businesses wanted the event to happen, wouldn't it be happening? I think I'll leave about 11:00am ride to and then ride through Snohomish, then find someplace else for lunch. Anyone want to go?
 
 
 
Remember: 
If Ya want me ta know somethin Ya gotta tell me.
irishmckinney@hotmail.com
www.irishmckinney.spaces.live.com
 
Chicken Friday
Rat City ABATE Second Tuesday
www.ratcityabate.org  
 
 
Enough
Later
 
IRISH
 
TopHatTaxes@hotmail.com
(206)299-0375
 
reprinted at www.bikerfriendlybar.com

Hey Guys---welcome to May (yeah right) I've just spent the last three weeks trying to get bikes in functioning order. I've been feeling like the little Dutch kid with fingers in spewing oil leaks, getting one stopped up only to watch another sprout. The Shovel (the 72) now seems to be functioning well enough and the Heritage (the 97) had to have the neighbor called in to lay hands on, but maybe (everyone cross your fingers) I can take it down the road and go Vroom, Vroom. Next the Panhead (the 59) goes up on the rack---maybe this is the year.
 
Just need to catch up on a couple of things here real quick: First, I want to thank Ken Olson for his kind words in the April edition of the Washington Biker Information Guide E-zine, about my article in the March issue of Thunder Press. It's not often you see someone in one publication tell people to pick up another rag to check out a story. I think that shows a lot of class and I appreciate the mention. If you don't get the E-zine go to www.BikerinformationGuide.com and get it sent to your own personal computer---also look for the quarterly hard copy edition at all your local motorcycle style hang outs, it's damn near pocket sized.
 
I have a number of different internet accounts to accomplish different things, as many of you probably do. I do most of my work out of the Hotmail account and use my Yahoo account mostly for storage. So if you really want me to see something send it to my Hotmail address. Anyway, I was in Yahoo the other day doing some housekeeping when I stumbled across a couple of letters I hadn't seen---sorry I didn't get back to you Laura, do you still need that info? The other was from Leroy Ackerson (the
X-man) which I have reprinted in the "Other Voices" section. Please take the time to read the X-man's note, in the words of Eric Burdon "it will be worth it."
 
OK, so went down to the Grand Opening of Downtown H-D of Renton last week. This new facility, located in the industrial section of the valley by Renton Motorcycle Works, is a nice facility. They put on a whing ding of a party, and if you missed it---shame on you. According to my sources there may have been as many as 5,000 people blow through the place on that day. Good food, lots of familiar faces, a poker run to benefit animals (good job Jack) and Funky Music going down in the city (?). Look for a Thunder Press article in the June edition (I Hope).
 
As many of you probably know by now, the Old Snohomish Antique & Classic Motorcycle Show has been canceled. Usualy the third Sunday in May---not this year. While I'm not all that in the know, my information says there was a stumbling block in what local law enforcement was asking (dollar wise) to provide public security. Now to the best of my memory, I've never heard of any incidents at this event---to walk in asking a seven and a half fold increase in cost for security is just out of hand. Someone has been watching too many drive-in movies. To go from a cost of $4,000 to $30,000 is insane. I think I'll find something else to do with my dollars on that particular week-end---maybe someone should set up "Go Back" signs on the edge of town. Keep in mind July 12th though when some of the promoters of the Snohomish event will be staging a mini-show in Sultan at the Sultan Shindig; a prelude to what the future in Sultan may bring, good luck Sultan.
 
Coming up---
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5/9---Tacoma ABATE 27th Annual Dice Throw Run---Sign up starts 9:30am at Uncle Sam's B&G in Spanaway $8 for ABATE Members---last bike out 11:00am---Think we'll probably leave here at about 9:00am--gimme a holler if you want to go with [flier on the web site]
 
5/9---Ride for Fallen Riders---Sign up 10:00am Legend H-D in Silverdale (9625 provost Rd NW) $20 cost [flier on the web site}
 
 
5/10---Rat City ABATE Adopt-A-Highway clean up---meet at the Barrel on 1st Ave S at 9:00am---leave for the highway 10:00am---breakfast is available at the Barrel--we'll be on the west side of Hwy 509 between Glendale and 148th---come help us beautify America, you don't have to get a hair cut
 
5/12---Second Tuesday---Rat City ABATE monthly meeting---meet at the Emerald Green Restaurant (13100 48th in Tukwila) 6:00pm social, 7:00pm business meeting--come on down, bring a friend
 
5/25---Olympia Thunder Run to the Washington State Vietnam Veteran's Memorial---leaves Destination H-D 11:00am---leaves Northwest H-D 12:00pm---ceremony 12:45pm, $10 Run Fee [flier on the web site]
 
6/19-21---ABATE of Washington Spring Opener---Klickitat County Fairgrounds, Goldendale Washington---YEEEE HAW $25 member, $30 nonmember at the gate---advance tickets at discount available, talk to me---gonna try to leave on Thursday [flier on  the web site]
 
7/4----Crystal Mountain Coast---How many is this Bonnie?---no pins, no t-shirts, no sponsors, just us---put it on your calendar
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Other voices
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From my friend the X-man:

Hey Guys---Just a short one here to see if I can get back in the swing of things.
 
Coming off the tax season, I'm usually a little burnt out from the dash to the finish; this year there was more than one mitigating factor. It was my first year on my own (to be perfectly honest it was Marjorie and me on our own), and then in rapid succession the  Shovelhead blew a rocker cover gasket on the way home from one Chicken Friday and the Heritage started making horrendous noises on the next Chicken Friday. All this in the last two weeks of the tax season---I didn't have time to scratch places that itched, let alone fix bikes that didn't work. Well things weren't as bad as they seemed on the one hand and worse than I hoped on the other. The blown rocker cover gasket on the Shovel was better (and easier to fix) than the blown head gasket I had first thought it was----but the Heritage has ended up being much worse, having to do with flattened cam followers and scored cams. I have some parts for the Heritage, but am waiting on others to arrive. The Shovel is now up and running (I hope, I hope, I hope) and I can use that for daily stuff [if in a fix I can use the Ol' Lady's Sporty---we both rode it up to last weeks Chicken Friday---don't think that will ever happen again].
 
The sun has started to shine so let's get on with what's happening----
 
Coming up
<><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><
4/24 Chicken Friday---every Friday at the Barrel Bar in Burien (or if you're hip--Top Hat) we usually roll in about 6:30pm and we're gone before the Croaky starts---about time to start after bon fires
 
4/25 Grand Opening for the new Downtown H-D of Renton---doors open at 10:00am, party starts at noon o'clock, lots of events---celebs---vendors (3715 East Valley Rd Renton)
 
4/25 Hog's for Paws to Benefit the Kent Animal Shelter---Registration begins 9:00am last bike out 10:00am, begins and ends at the new Downtown H-D of Renton (3715 East Valley Rd Renton) $20 Entry {flier on the web site}
 
4/25 Amigo Yak Memorial Fun Run---sign up 11:00am at the Barrel Tavern (11051 1st Ave S Burien) $10 Entry, Ends in Spanaway {flier on the web site}
 
4/26 25th Anniversary Highland Fling---sign up starts 8:00am at Tacoma Motorsports (4701 Center St Tacoma) $15 entry {flier on the web site}
 
5/9 27th Annual Tacoma ABATE Dice Throw Run---sign up at 9:30am at Uncle Sam's Bar & Grill (16003 Pacific Ave S Spanaway) $8 member, $10 Nonmember entry {no flier---what's with that?}
 
5/10 Rat City ABATE road clean up---meet 9:00am at the Barrel Tavern (11051 1st Ave S Burien) No Cost, you don't need to be a member to take part---come feel good about yourself
 
5/12 Rat City ABATE Monthly meeting---meet 6:00pm social, 7:00pm business meeting at the Emerald Green Restaurant (13100 48th Ave Tukwila) No Cost to attend, come find out what it's all about
 
6/19-21 ABATE of Washington Spring Opener---at the Klickitat County Fairgrounds in Goldendale Wa--Advanced Tickets $20 Member, $25 Nonmember---at the Gate $25 Member, $30 Nonmember {flier on the web site}
 
7/4 Crystal Mountain Coast---it's not too early to start thinking about it---got any ideas for this year? No T-shirts, No pins, No fliers, No sponsors--just us
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
 
Remember 
 
If Ya want me ta know somethin Ya gotta tell me.
irishmckinney@hotmail.com
www.irishmckinney.spaces.live.com
 
Chicken Friday
Rat City ABATE Second Tuesday
www.ratcityabate.org  
 
 
Enough
Later
 
IRISH
 
TopHatTaxes@hotmail.com
(206)299-0375
 
reprinted at www.bikerfriendlybar.com

Hey Guys---I can feel it starting---even though I'm inside and the sunshine is outside, the sunshine is on my shoulder through the window.
Some things that have happened. If you haven't seen this months issue of Thunder Press---you should. I have a small story in this issue and the publication has just done me right. The lay out of the story is just incredible, it sure makes my story look good and I just want to say that publicly. Thanks guys (and/or gals).
I don't forward stuff very often, but a few weeks ago I forwarded a letter from my friends Rebecca and Rex concerning a fund raiser for Phil Weigel. He's shop owner, motorcycle mechanic and general all around Guru in Georgetown. You have to remember this is tax time and sometimes I have a little trouble keeping track of my linearity. A short time after forwarding that note I got a call from my friend Cholly saying he had something for me from Sam and Squirrel and it would be at the Barrel for me to pick up. Well I stopped by the next day and he handed me a couple of etched coffee cups (Sam does that kind of work) and said they were for me. I didn't know what could be the occasion for gifts, but who was I to squint in the mouth of a horse. [Cue the swirly lights and creepy music.] Some while later I managed to remember that I should call Sam and Squirrel and thank them for the gifts. I left a message of thanks on their voice mail. The next day Sam calls giggling saying the cups were for the Sam Weigel side walk sale fund raiser. My voice became high and squeaky as I got shorter and shorter.
Anyway, I managed to shake loose a little time the other day to run down to "Button Makers", the shop that Rex and Rebecca have around the corner from Smarty Pants in Georgetown, and pay what I was told was a fair price for the cups they never got. Whew---now my Karma is back in balance (I hope.)
 
Saturday is the 15th Annual Freeze Your Butt Off Poker Run presented by Rat City chapter of Washington ABATE. Now I have a little bit of a vested interest in this one folks, so if I may please, request your attendance. Registration begins at 10:00am at the Emerald Green Restaurant (13100 48th South in Tukwila) with last out at 11:00am. Now if you have been reading my musings for a while, and are not really a motorcycle rider, but thought perhaps you might be interested in sometime attending an event to get more of a feel for what the Hell I talk about---this could just possibly be that time. We would love to see you and if you can't do the whole thing, at least join us at the Barrel (somewhere around 3 or 4 o'clock) for spaghetti dinner and the wrap up.
 
Sunday is time change---it's also our Adopt-a-Highway road clean up. Please join us and help clean up our little piece of paradise. If you've looked at the sides of the roads lately, the past storms (and perhaps some budget cuts here and there) have left the sides of the roads a mess. Many hands make little work---we need the help---please help. Meet 9:00am at the County line in South Park, leave for the road (Hwy 509 from Glendale Way to 148th) at 10:00am.
 
Tuesday is Second Tuesday, the regular monthly meeting date for the Rat City chapter of ABATE of Washington. Are you interested in rights? So are we. ABATE is a motorcycle based rights organization. But, owning a motorcycle or even riding one is not a requirement to belonging to the organization. Come find out what it's all about. Tuesday at the Emerald Green Restaurant (13100 48th South in Tukwila) 6:00pm Social---7:00pm business meeting---everyone is welcome.
 
Been having a lot of fun with the Face Book thing lately. We've set up groups on face Book for "Rat City Chapter of ABATE" and "ABATE of Washington". These groups don't require memberships in the organization to belong to the groups. If you're interested in finding out more about the organization it's a good way to get started.
 
Another Face Book group I'm interested in is "The Backstage in Ballard is Gone But Not Forgotten." If you remember the Backstage, there are pictures and stories of the many people and acts that went through there---it's fun.
 
I'll try to get back to more like my regular ramblings next time. Lots of stuff coming up I need to tell you about and lots of things happening we need to talk about---but for now....
 
If Ya want me ta know somethin Ya gotta tell me.
irishmckinney@hotmail.com
www.irishmckinney.spaces.live.com
 
Chicken Friday
Rat City ABATE Second Tuesday
www.ratcityabate.org  
 
 
Enough
Later
 
IRISH
 
TopHatTaxes@hotmail.com
(206)299-0375
 
reprinted at www.bikerfriendlybar.com

Hey Guys---It's been quite a while since we talked and for that I apologize, but sometimes you just get kinda snowed under.
 
Now some of you may be getting this for the first time or some of you older readers (and yes I do mean older) may not remember. I write occasionally and mostly its about motorcycles but it can be anything that strikes my fancy---and sometimes my fancy has a mind of its own. I encourage response, it's much more fun to be engaged in a dialogue or multilogue than it is an autologue---almost everything is more fun with a friend. If at any point you don't wish to receive this missive all you have to do is let me know and you'll never see me no more. This has happened once---although I have had people move and not tell me where they have gone---this first happened when I was eleven. So, all that having been said....
 
Nice ride this last week-end. The second Annual UpChuck Memorial ride. Ricky (ol' One Ball hisself) put together a nice event. Linda at the Barrel (and staff---I love em all) did their usual fine job of making all feel at home and assuring everyone had a good time. The day started off with me (it is all about me after all) arriving at the Barrel to hook up with some of the Apples and others heading over to the Auburn Eagles, which would serve as the pack up point for the ride.
 
Anyway my arrival at the Barrel was auspicious because I arrived on Marjorie's Sporty. It had been about two and a half years since the bike had even been started, but I finally figured it needed to be ridden or it would just slowly melt into the floor of the garage. It is not the size of bike I am used to and I'm going to have to get a picture taken, because I just can't get an image in my mind (look for that on the web site www.irishmckinney.spaces.live.com) ...so where was I? Oh, I remember.
 
We headed out from the Barrel and in true Apple fashion chose the most congested route to get to Auburn. The freeways still are sandy and dirty from the snows earlier this winter so it was like getting sand blasted at sixty miles per hour. This was very evident on route 167 where you could watch the sand storm being kicked up by the line of bikes in the HOV lane. We were the first to arrive in Auburn so it was hang out, watch others arrive, and try to convince everyone that yes, indeed, that is the bike I'm riding.
 
There were about eighty bikes that took the ride up to the Tahoma National Cemetery where Chuck now resides. When we got there Ricky led us in a promenade of the Cemetery down the main aisle and back again to where Chuck is. We took time for a toast and pictures and I talked Ricky into repeating the promenade so I could get some pictures of the bikes in formation. There's an incredible view of Mt Rainier at one end and a long straight stretch coming out of a flag plaza at the other. I think I got some pretty neat pictures---you tell me, they're on the web site.
 
By the time I had everything stowed and was back on the bike the pack had long gone. The only one left was Mike Hislap (thanks Mike, I appreciate it). We finally figured out how to get out of the hills behind Auburn and hot footed it back to the Barrel, we actually beat the pack back by seconds, because I know a short cut----neener, neener, neener.
 
At the Barrel it was spaghetti dinner, silent auction, 50/50, door prizes, and music later in the evening----Oh did I tell you the weather was pert near perfect? Something about that first good weather ride of the year.....[pictures on the web site]
 
Been having a lot of fun with this Face Book thing, got a group set up for ABATE of Washington and for Rat City ABATE. If you are on the Face Book look up the groups and join us on line. This doesn't obligate you to membership in the organization, we just hope it might convince you to take the step. This gives you the opportunity to ask questions before running to the deep end and jumping in---come on in the water's fine. 
 
 
Coming up
####################################################################
3/7 Rat City ABATE Freeze Your Butt Off Poker Run---Sign up at the Emerald Green Restaurant (13100 48th South in Tukwila) sign up 10:00am last bike out 11:00am---ends at the Barrel for spaghetti [flier on the web site]
 
3/14 South King County ABATE Dart Run---Sign up at the Performance Grill (1525 A St NE Auburn) sign up 10:00am bikes out at 11:00am [flier on the web site]
 
3/21 Band of Brothers Poker Run---Sign up at O'Callaghan's (15610 92nd St KP N Lakebay) sign up 10:00am bikes out at 11:00am---ends at the Bethel Saloon [flier on the web site]
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If Ya want me ta know somethin Ya gotta tell me.
irishmckinney@hotmail.com
www.irishmckinney.spaces.live.com
 
Chicken Friday
Rat City ABATE Second Tuesday
www.ratcityabate.org  
 
 
Enough
Later
 
IRISH
 
TopHatTaxes@hotmail.com
(206)299-0375
 
reprinted at www.bikerfriendlybar.com

Hey Guys---What a year it's been. The major issues of the Economy, the Election, and locally, the weather have been done to death, but never let it be said that I wouldn't pile on when the opportunity presents itself.
 
The Economy---It has always been my impression (my hope) that the major roll of government was to protect me from things that I wasn't big enough to protect myself from. Aggression from other countries through the military, natural disasters with emergency services, and laws designed to reign in people or organizations, who through malice or stupidity, would do me, my family or my community wrong. The current round of "bail out" rewards sure puts those thoughts to rest don't they? Last spring the government issued an economic stimulus check to all individuals who filed a tax return, this year we will be required to answer a question regarding whether we received that money or not. This fall the government dealt out funds in the Billions (that's some number followed by nine zeros) to businesses that were directly responsible for fueling the growth and subsequent collapse of the mortgage debacle. Do you think those businesses will be required to verify the receipt and use of those funds in any manner---I wouldn't bet on it---well actually I would, spin the wheel Jack, I'll place all my money on no.
 
The Election---I don't care who you are or who you voted for, there has to be a certain awe at what we just did. I have to admit, I didn't vote for the man---as many of you know I vote third party. But, the issue here is the potential for a fundamental change in this country. It has been in my life time that we have seen changes in basic bottom line social issues. Issues that at one time threatened to tear this country apart. It's time. Even though I didn't elect him, that's not the issue, the issue is---he's my president, he's your president, he's our president and he deserves our support until he proves other wise. I haven't been this excited about an election since Jimmy Carter---and we all saw how well that went.
 
The Local Weather---It's been said that everyone talks about it, but no one does anything and I guess that seems like the truth over the last two weeks. In my opinion what we just had (and we're back to a blissful grey) was a half century storm. Something that comes along every fifty years or so. Now I don't have a problem with not being completely prepared for something like that. Paying for something that will sit around and become obsolete before used, kinda speaks for itself. But, I think, there was a lot to be desired in the manner in which the local powers that be allocated the resources that were available; and even more important communicating that allocation. Leaving people stranded on street corners for hours in sub-freezing weather is just a nonstarter. First priority has to be---clear the bus routes and keep them clear, then use every means possible to let people know what they need to do to get home. On the other hand, if you don't absolutely need to be out there---what the Hell are you doing there? This part of the country isn't made for the kind of storms we just had and everyone needed to show a little more common sense.
 
Whew, that all made me feel a little better---it's always nice to strike out without fear of being counter punched.
 
On the home front---Marjorie retired this year and we're still trying to figure out what to do with her---ouch, ouch, ouch don't slap me again dear. The oldest son got married and not only did we inherit a new daughter but a new granddaughter. The middle daughter presented us with another strapping grandson---I do hope she's done now, each succeeding child (three boys) seems to be bigger than the last, at the rate they're going the next would be born full grown. The youngest daughter completed all the requirements to be able to hang out her shingle as a licensed (recognized? I'm not quite sure of the correct reference) architect. All three kids have succeeded, perhaps not in the manner they expected---but, they have succeeded in making me proud.
 
Outside of the family---so to speak---the year was an on the go one. The acquisition of the pop-up trailer and Marjorie having more time available seems to have opened things up for us. The climax of the year being the three part journey that included; here to Minneapolis with Noah the grandson, route 66 and the trip home from So Cal.
 
ABATE has been a part of my life for many years. Now with the help (hmmm is that the right term?) of many friends it has become a larger part of my life. Don't forget the Rat City chapter meets second Tuesday---keep an eye on the new Rat City web site as it comes alive.
 
I never thought of myself as a writer---now I find writing consuming a larger part of my functioning day. It continues to amaze me. Not only that I seem to be able to do this, but most of all that there is a group of people willing to put up with my ramblings, and forgive my stumblings, as I try to figure this thing out. Susan Swan and eddieboy have both been most kind (well, maybe not eddie) in getting me to a point where someone actually paid for my words---what a shock that is. [I do love you Ed---I've missed your witty reparte' the last few months---but if you quote me on that I'll deny it]
 
What a year it's been---can it get any better than this?
 
                             
I think I might build a fire in the driveway New Year's Eve---if you're not doing anything... 
 
 
 
If Ya want me ta know somethin Ya gotta tell me.
irishmckinney@hotmail.com
www.irishmckinney.spaces.live.com
 
Chicken Friday
Rat City ABATE Second Tuesday
www.ratcityabate.org  
 
 
Enough
Later
 
IRISH
 
TopHatTaxes@hotmail.com
(206)299-0375
 
reprinted at www.bikerfriendlybar.com