NationStates Jolt Archive

For those of you who know me, here's what I've been up to lately:


"This coming June 2nd will be the start of not only a salute to America's wounded service men and women, but the motorcycle ride of a lifetime. Conceived as one way to help keep wounded and disabled American soldiers in the public eye, the Ride will cover 29 states and approximately 10,000 miles!

"Anyone who wants to participate is welcome, just as long as they agree that the purpose of the Ride is to recognize and help America’s wounded and disabled from whatever war, particularly those from the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts. You can join up at any point during the Ride and ride with us as far as you can stand it.

"The Ride will officially begin at the headquarters of The Wounded Warrior Project in Jacksonville, Florida at 9:00 AM on Saturday, June 2, 2007.

"Maps for the ride have been provided by the American Automobile Association.

"The Ride will primarily follow the interstate highway system, with exceptions to take advantage of scenic routes where road conditions permit. We intend to bypass major metropolitan areas wherever possible.

"Each day’s Ride will be approximately 400-500 miles and will begin at nine AM near metropolitan areas, earlier in rural areas. There will be at least three stops for refueling and rest each day in addition to the overnight stops.

"Obviously, this Ride is not for the novice rider. If you have never ridden with a group of riders, or have never ridden long distances, we actively discourage you from participating for other than very short portions of the Ride ( 100 miles or less )."



Read the rest at: http://10000milerideforthewounded.com/ There is a map which shows the outline of the Route at http://10000milerideforthewounded.com/RideMap.html


I would greatly appreciate your suggestions, comments and yes, your criticisms.

Forrest [ Formerly "Eutrusca" ]

hah! I knew you wouldn't be able to keep away!
The pull of NS is just too strong.

How does this help the wounded, exactly?

Naturally, money is raised to support them.

For those of you who know me, here's what I've been up to lately:


"This coming June 2nd will be the start of not only a salute to America's wounded service men and women, but the motorcycle ride of a lifetime. Conceived as one way to help keep wounded and disabled American soldiers in the public eye, the Ride will cover 29 states and approximately 10,000 miles!

"Anyone who wants to participate is welcome, just as long as they agree that the purpose of the Ride is to recognize and help America’s wounded and disabled from whatever war, particularly those from the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts. You can join up at any point during the Ride and ride with us as far as you can stand it.

"The Ride will officially begin at the headquarters of The Wounded Warrior Project in Jacksonville, Florida at 9:00 AM on Saturday, June 2, 2007.

"Maps for the ride have been provided by the American Automobile Association.

"The Ride will primarily follow the interstate highway system, with exceptions to take advantage of scenic routes where road conditions permit. We intend to bypass major metropolitan areas wherever possible.

"Each day’s Ride will be approximately 400-500 miles and will begin at nine AM near metropolitan areas, earlier in rural areas. There will be at least three stops for refueling and rest each day in addition to the overnight stops.

"Obviously, this Ride is not for the novice rider. If you have never ridden with a group of riders, or have never ridden long distances, we actively discourage you from participating for other than very short portions of the Ride ( 100 miles or less )."



Read the rest at: http://10000milerideforthewounded.com/ There is a map which shows the outline of the Route at http://10000milerideforthewounded.com/RideMap.html


I would greatly appreciate your suggestions, comments and yes, your criticisms.

Forrest [ Formerly "Eutrusca" ]

my comment is short: sounds like fun!


how are you doing eut? :)

Naturally, money is raised to support them.

Would it be enough to cover the expenses that are bound to occur?

Would it be enough to cover the expenses that are bound to occur?

QFT. I'd imagine this is going to be hellishly expensive.

Sounds like fun, I'd maybe join if I had a bike, and lived in the US and... anyways, have fun.

Would it be enough to cover the expenses that are bound to occur?
I'd imagine that the drivers are covering their own expenses, and that the money that is raised should mostly go toward helping veterans and their families who are in need.

...what the hell? They go around the country in a circle?

So much for the idea of joining up with it when it headed through Colorado...

How does this help the wounded, exactly?
I'm sure some money will be raised. And then there's the moral support it generates, which can be pretty damn effective in helping people emotionally.

10000 miles? Ouch, that's gotta be a pain in the ass, literally. Good cause though, have fun.

How does this help the wounded, exactly?

Their exhaust plumes are no doubt an aid to the wounded's recuperative powers.

Sounds like it'll be one awesome time.

Sounds like it'll be one awesome time.

For gas station owners everywhere.

For gas station owners everywhere.
:rolleyes:

Not even a quarter of the way to funny. Try harder and it will probably stay the same.

I can't access the map :(

great idea though.....you should send press releases to news stations in the towns that you are staying overnight in.

I can email you a sample press release so you know how to form it, if it's formed wrong they throw it away.

Damn, and me with no bike. Screw what the wife says, this summer, I'm buying me a new one.

Hey man, long time no see!

It kinda sucks the route bypasses Chicago to go through Michigan's UP...there's nothing up there of interest anyways, and it's twice as far for me to come cheer you guys on.

Oh sure there are. There are trees... and.... trees.

I'm moving back to Michigan on the 11th so I may be able to stop out and cheer you guys on somewhere along the line.

Swingin' by Cleveland it looks like.

If you get a chance, pay a visit to the Rock Hall. Good fun to be had there.

Besides that, Cleveland is pretty lame though.

Hey, looks like you guys are swinging through my area. I'll have to come cheer you on. :)

Nice to see you again Eut, glad to see you're doing ok. :)

Wouldn't more money be raised by NOT riding 10000 miles and sending the petrol/accomodation money to the soldiers (and the environment may thank you too)

Good luck anyway

For those of you who know me, here's what I've been up to lately:


"This coming June 2nd will be the start of not only a salute to America's wounded service men and women, but the motorcycle ride of a lifetime. Conceived as one way to help keep wounded and disabled American soldiers in the public eye, the Ride will cover 29 states and approximately 10,000 miles!

"Anyone who wants to participate is welcome, just as long as they agree that the purpose of the Ride is to recognize and help America’s wounded and disabled from whatever war, particularly those from the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts. You can join up at any point during the Ride and ride with us as far as you can stand it.

"The Ride will officially begin at the headquarters of The Wounded Warrior Project in Jacksonville, Florida at 9:00 AM on Saturday, June 2, 2007.

"Maps for the ride have been provided by the American Automobile Association.

"The Ride will primarily follow the interstate highway system, with exceptions to take advantage of scenic routes where road conditions permit. We intend to bypass major metropolitan areas wherever possible.

"Each day’s Ride will be approximately 400-500 miles and will begin at nine AM near metropolitan areas, earlier in rural areas. There will be at least three stops for refueling and rest each day in addition to the overnight stops.

"Obviously, this Ride is not for the novice rider. If you have never ridden with a group of riders, or have never ridden long distances, we actively discourage you from participating for other than very short portions of the Ride ( 100 miles or less )."



Read the rest at: http://10000milerideforthewounded.com/ There is a map which shows the outline of the Route at http://10000milerideforthewounded.com/RideMap.html


I would greatly appreciate your suggestions, comments and yes, your criticisms.

Forrest [ Formerly "Eutrusca" ]

Its a good cause and sounds like a good time. Very meaningful and will bring some attention to a good cause.

Have a great ride-glad to hear you're up for it and planning it should be a good time too.

My advice? Ride & stick with buddies so you can all look out for each other-know your limitations and dont overdo it. Thats a long ride overall, but each day is like a marathon.

Dont let the bastards get you down,Eut. Best wishes,my friend.

How does this help the wounded, exactly?

For gas station owners everywhere.

Wouldn't more money be raised by NOT riding 10000 miles and sending the petrol/accomodation money to the soldiers (and the environment may thank you too)

Good luck anyway

I'm with these guys. How does this help them? If any money is raised, wouldn't it be better to just send the money that this ride would cost and isn't this supporting gas station owners more than wounded soldiers?

The only thing I see is the positive moral support, but other than that, please enlighten me.

I'm with these guys. How does this help them? If any money is raised, wouldn't it be better to just send the money that this ride would cost and isn't this supporting gas station owners more than wounded soldiers.

Public awareness. More money will get to the soldiers because more people will be aware of it.

People might be more likely to give if there's something big like this drawing attention to the problem; I can guarantee you we wouldn't raise anywhere near as much money as we do for medical conditions like MS or breast cancer without the awareness programs launched by groups.

Well now that I know you'll be visiting my county, perhaps I'll have a donation and a quart of Yuengling lager waiting for you. :)

my comment is short: sounds like fun!


how are you doing eut? :)

Hi, PM!!!!

I'm doing great, thank you. Really excited about this Ride. :)

Forrest

QFT. I'd imagine this is going to be hellishly expensive.

Not really. I'm paying for almost all of it out of my military disability check. The Ride itself has a few items for sale to help defray expenses, but all donations for the wounded go directly to non-profit organizations which provide direct support to either them or their families. :)

I can't access the map :(

great idea though.....you should send press releases to news stations in the towns that you are staying overnight in.

I can email you a sample press release so you know how to form it, if it's formed wrong they throw it away.

Thank you, Smunkee. That's very kind. One of the organizations we're supporting has generously offered to prepare our press releases and use their distribution software to send them out to all media outlets in the Country.

How are you doing, hon???

Oh sure there are. There are trees... and.... trees.

I'm moving back to Michigan on the 11th so I may be able to stop out and cheer you guys on somewhere along the line.

That would be great! Here's the detalied route (http://10000milerideforthewounded.com/RideMap.html) so you can locate the nearest point on a map.

Damn, and me with no bike. Screw what the wife says, this summer, I'm buying me a new one.

Git yerself a Harley, dude, then join us for at least a portion of the Ride! We'd love to have ya! :)

Nice to see you again Eut, glad to see you're doing ok. :)

Thank you, RLI! It's nice to come back and "see" all you guys! :D

Hi, PM!!!!

I'm doing great, thank you. Really excited about this Ride. :)

Forrest

glad to hear it dude :fluffle:


glitz and i just got back from celebrating our 1 year anniversary in amsterdam, i think you'll be pleased to hear :) (it was much fun!)

Its a good cause and sounds like a good time. Very meaningful and will bring some attention to a good cause.

Have a great ride-glad to hear you're up for it and planning it should be a good time too.

My advice? Ride & stick with buddies so you can all look out for each other-know your limitations and dont overdo it. Thats a long ride overall, but each day is like a marathon.

Dont let the bastards get you down,Eut. Best wishes,my friend.

LOL! Thank you! I told my doctor to make a 30-day hole in my treatment so I could go on this Ride. He did and said he wished he could go too! :D

I may be riding a large percentage of the Ride alone, but that's ok. I've faced far, far worse alone already. This will be a walk in the park. :)

glad to hear it dude :fluffle:


glitz and i just got back from celebrating our 1 year anniversary in amsterdam, i think you'll be pleased to hear :) (it was much fun!)

VERY pleased to hear that! Tell Glitz I said hi, and give her a hug for me. I really do miss you guys. :(

Well now that I know you'll be visiting my county, perhaps I'll have a donation and a quart of Yuengling lager waiting for you. :)

Yayyyy! I'll drink to that! :D

...what the hell? They go around the country in a circle?

So much for the idea of joining up with it when it headed through Colorado...

If this first one is successful, and I'm still up to it physically ( not to mention still around! Heh! ), we may make it an annual thing and change the Route a bit. Stay tuned. Film at eleven! :D

hah! I knew you wouldn't be able to keep away!
The pull of NS is just too strong.

:p

How does this help the wounded, exactly?

Visit the site. That will tell you allll about it. :)

I'll be back periodically to update this for those of you who are interested.

You boys and girls have fun. Play nice now, y'heah? :D

If this first one is successful, and I'm still up to it physically ( not to mention still around! Heh! ), we may make it an annual thing and change the Route a bit. Stay tuned. Film at eleven! :D

Well, if you ever DO pull through Colorado and come down Highway 285, you'll see me--and probably a lot of others--waiting at the Pine Junction intersection to give you donations and whatnot. I'd join you, but I just realized you have to have a motercycle in order to do so.

VERY pleased to hear that! Tell Glitz I said hi, and give her a hug for me. I really do miss you guys. :(

will do :)


ps: you got an email addy i can reach you at? you're a cool guy and i'd like to stay in contact if you aren't around here much any more



good luck with the ride! take pictures!

Their exhaust plumes are no doubt an aid to the wounded's recuperative powers.
I was about to post saying "I bet some idiot's going to totally miss the point and bring up emissions..."

I'm with these guys. How does this help them? If any money is raised, wouldn't it be better to just send the money that this ride would cost and isn't this supporting gas station owners more than wounded soldiers?

The only thing I see is the positive moral support, but other than that, please enlighten me.

Publicity. Sponsors. T-shirt sales. Hawaiian haved ice. ....okay, I'm going off on a bit of a tangent, but the point is that events attract donors, corporate sponsors and charity auctions. They'll raise a ton of money. *nod*

Edit: Oh, and Hiya, Eutrusca! http://www.abestweb.com/smilies/wave.gif

Thank you, Smunkee. That's very kind. One of the organizations we're supporting has generously offered to prepare our press releases and use their distribution software to send them out to all media outlets in the Country.
that's awesome, I am glad that you have help.

How are you doing, hon???
I am okay, way too busy.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
For the people who don't understand the point......it's awareness. I run a charity and while there are people who give, we can always use more. I have had donors say "wow. I didn't even know you guys existed" before they wrote me the check.

cool, are you doing the full 10,000 miles? it's gunna be an awesome sight all those bikes rolling in at once!

i doubt i can offer anything useful in the way of constructive criticism. but when you've done it be sure to come and tell us how it went, and maybe you can offer some tips for making such a trip awesome. a long-distance bike trip is something i've had my mind on for a while now, something to save up for anyway :)

good luck and bon voyage! :D

For the people who don't understand the point......it's awareness. I run a charity and while there are people who give, we can always use more. I have had donors say "wow. I didn't even know you guys existed" before they wrote me the check.

Couldn't they do a stunt that's a bit more environmentally friendly though? You could always walk the 10,000 miles. Probably raise more money too as it's a much more impressive feat.

Couldn't they do a stunt that's a bit more environmentally friendly though? You could always walk the 10,000 miles. Probably raise more money too as it's a much more impressive feat.

considering all these bikes would be on the road going their seperate ways anyway if there wasn't an organised event i don't think the net pollution is going to be appreciably greater if they are all churning out exhaust gases at the same time and place. maybe locally it would be for half an hour or so but that doesn't make a difference in terms of global pollution levels. this event is doing more good than harm imo.

Couldn't they do a stunt that's a bit more environmentally friendly though? You could always walk the 10,000 miles. Probably raise more money too as it's a much more impressive feat.

why do you care what they do? if you want to do your own walk of 10K miles for something set it up.

why do you care what they do? if you want to do your own walk of 10K miles for something set it up.

Because environmental damage in the US affects me too. Hate to beak it to you but the US isn't the centre of the universe and nor do the things that happen there only effect your continent.

A bunch of bikers driving 10,000 miles seems a little wasteful of the worlds resources be it for a good cause or not.

Because environmental damage in the US affects me too. Hate to beak it to you but the US isn't the centre of the universe and nor do the things that happen there only effect your continent.

A bunch of bikers driving 10,000 miles seems a little wasteful of the worlds resources be it for a good cause or not.

:rolleyes:

:rolleyes:

Hang on, I don't drive, I go to all the effort of recycling my junk and I generally just try to look after the environment as best I can without being one of those crazy environmental zealots and because I think that there are better ways to raise money for a good cause than for a bunch of idiots to go tear-arsing around the country burning a load of hydrocarbons I get the roll-eyes?

Hang on, I don't drive, I go to all the effort of recycling my junk and I generally just try to look after the environment as best I can without being one of those crazy environmental zealots and because I think that there are better ways to raise money for a good cause than for a bunch of idiots to go tear-arsing around the country burning a load of hydrocarbons I get the roll-eyes?

what makes you so special that you get to criticize everyone else?

Hey! :) :fluffle: you can give me that hug yourself :p

Really glad to hear you're doing well, and all the best of luck with this fantastic thing! and enjoy yourself! :D and take care too! :fluffle:
i second the email thing *nods* :-)

what makes you so special that you get to criticize everyone else?

Because what they do affects everyone else.

You get to criticize that kind of behaviour.

Nevertheless, I will applaud the definite moral support that this provides to people.

I'll stand by the whole "why ride 10k miles?" I mean, come on guys, you're vets! You could run it ;)

considering all these bikes would be on the road going their seperate ways anyway if there wasn't an organised event i don't think the net pollution is going to be appreciably greater if they are all churning out exhaust gases at the same time and place. maybe locally it would be for half an hour or so but that doesn't make a difference in terms of global pollution levels. this event is doing more good than harm imo.

Not only that, but motorcycles are much more environmentally friendly than having loads of folks drive around the country in, say, Chevy Suburbans.

Hang on, I don't drive, I go to all the effort of recycling my junk and I generally just try to look after the environment as best I can without being one of those crazy environmental zealots and because I think that there are better ways to raise money for a good cause than for a bunch of idiots to go tear-arsing around the country burning a load of hydrocarbons I get the roll-eyes?

Because your criticsm was unproductive and tactless.

Because your criticsm was unproductive and tactless.

And that renders the point moot somehow?

Because your criticsm was unproductive and tactless.

On the contrary - He brings up a valid point.

There are ways to raise awareness that limit harm done to the environment. Harm done to the environment is a public issue.

I'll continue to voice my support for the general idea of this program though.

Their exhaust plumes are no doubt an aid to the wounded's recuperative powers.

It must seriously suck to be you.

You seriously need to learn what fun is.

For those of you who know me, here's what I've been up to lately:


"This coming June 2nd will be the start of not only a salute to America's wounded service men and women, but the motorcycle ride of a lifetime. Conceived as one way to help keep wounded and disabled American soldiers in the public eye, the Ride will cover 29 states and approximately 10,000 miles!

"Anyone who wants to participate is welcome, just as long as they agree that the purpose of the Ride is to recognize and help America’s wounded and disabled from whatever war, particularly those from the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts. You can join up at any point during the Ride and ride with us as far as you can stand it.

"The Ride will officially begin at the headquarters of The Wounded Warrior Project in Jacksonville, Florida at 9:00 AM on Saturday, June 2, 2007.

"Maps for the ride have been provided by the American Automobile Association.

"The Ride will primarily follow the interstate highway system, with exceptions to take advantage of scenic routes where road conditions permit. We intend to bypass major metropolitan areas wherever possible.

"Each day’s Ride will be approximately 400-500 miles and will begin at nine AM near metropolitan areas, earlier in rural areas. There will be at least three stops for refueling and rest each day in addition to the overnight stops.

"Obviously, this Ride is not for the novice rider. If you have never ridden with a group of riders, or have never ridden long distances, we actively discourage you from participating for other than very short portions of the Ride ( 100 miles or less )."



Read the rest at: http://10000milerideforthewounded.com/ There is a map which shows the outline of the Route at http://10000milerideforthewounded.com/RideMap.html


I would greatly appreciate your suggestions, comments and yes, your criticisms.

Forrest [ Formerly "Eutrusca" ]


That sounds awesome. I hope you have fun and raise a lot of money for this event. :)

Except for the fact that I don't have a motorcycle, never rode one, can't afford to buy one, and will have to work during that time, I'd love to join you.

I was about to post saying "I bet some idiot's going to totally miss the point and bring up emissions..."

10,000 miles worth. Multiplied by how many engines?

And I'm supposed to be the idiot?

Why not do something beneficial to raise public awareness - like planting trees? This "ride" is beyond stupid - it's profligate.

Publicity. Sponsors. T-shirt sales. Hawaiian haved ice. ....okay, I'm going off on a bit of a tangent, but the point is that events attract donors, corporate sponsors and charity auctions. They'll raise a ton of money. *nod*

Edit: Oh, and Hiya, Eutrusca! http://www.abestweb.com/smilies/wave.gif

LOL! NIce to "see" you too, LG! :D

cool, are you doing the full 10,000 miles? it's gunna be an awesome sight all those bikes rolling in at once!

i doubt i can offer anything useful in the way of constructive criticism. but when you've done it be sure to come and tell us how it went, and maybe you can offer some tips for making such a trip awesome. a long-distance bike trip is something i've had my mind on for a while now, something to save up for anyway :)

good luck and bon voyage! :D

Yes, so far as I can tell at this point, I may be the only one doing the entire distance. I suspect there will be quite a few who join up at one point or another, ride with us for awhile, then turn around and go back home. There may even be a handfull who comeplete the entire 10,000 miles. Just no way to tell at this time.

Thank you for the well-wishes, and yes, I'll come back and let everyone know how things went. :)

Hang on, I don't drive, I go to all the effort of recycling my junk and I generally just try to look after the environment as best I can without being one of those crazy environmental zealots and because I think that there are better ways to raise money for a good cause than for a bunch of idiots to go tear-arsing around the country burning a load of hydrocarbons I get the roll-eyes?

LOL! Well, I see nothing's changed here on dear old General. Makes a really good argument for me to be conspicious by my absence. :D

Hey! :) :fluffle: you can give me that hug yourself :p

Really glad to hear you're doing well, and all the best of luck with this fantastic thing! and enjoy yourself! :D and take care too! :fluffle:
i second the email thing *nods* :-)

Glitz!!! Wuzzup, babe? :fluffle: :fluffle: : fluffle:

I sent the email addy to PM. Make him share it wid ya! :D

That sounds awesome. I hope you have fun and raise a lot of money for this event. :)

Except for the fact that I don't have a motorcycle, never rode one, can't afford to buy one, and will have to work during that time, I'd love to join you.

Heh! Well, thank you for the good thoughts, anyway. There are quite a number in the exact same position.

It must seriously suck to be you.

You seriously need to learn what fun is.

And you seriously need to learn what a "carbon footprint" is.

I'm with Dobbsworld on this one

There must be a better way to raise money for a good cause than by burning petrol

I always thought these sponsored type events required some physical effort/sacrifice. A nice bike ride doesn't seem to do either

On the other hand, I do think it is a good cause - British veterans are also woefully neglected by the state

And you seriously need to learn what a "carbon footprint" is.

I have charcoal odor eaters in my sneakers. :)

Cool! I wish you all a fun and safe trip. And it's good to hear from you. :)

And you seriously need to learn what a "carbon footprint" is.

And when I drink I act like I've never heard of Cirrhosis of the liver, but I keep at it anyways.

Life is a series of tradeoffs, and sometimes you have to do things because they're right.

...sometimes you have to do things because they're right.

You don't have to burn for 10,000 miles. What's your line of thinking, "We drive, or every wounded veteran out there dies immediately"? There's better things you can do for veterans, like make the world hospitable for their grandkids.


P.S. ...incidentally...What does "do things because they're right" have to do with drinking?

Well go figure, you're going to be passing through my hometown.

This is the most exciting thing to happen to Escanaba since...ever.

You don't have to burn for 10,000 miles. What's your line of thinking, "We drive, or every wounded veteran out there dies immediately"? There's better things you can do for veterans, like make the world hospitable for their grandkids.


P.S. ...incidentally...What does "do things because they're right" have to do with drinking?

Why they can't plant 10,000 trees or remove garbage from 10,000 km of roadway instead of needlessly burning fuel is beyond me. Idiocy is idiocy - there is no right or wrong to consider.

I seriously suggest that you stop off at Walter Reed Military Hospital and visit the wounded soldiers living in squalor there.

I seriously suggest that you stop off at Walter Reed Military Hospital and visit the wounded soldiers living in squalor there.

And run a dozen V8 engines in place of their air conditioning system.

Why they can't plant 10,000 trees or remove garbage from 10,000 km of roadway instead of needlessly burning fuel is beyond me. Idiocy is idiocy - there is no right or wrong to consider.

This will get them more media attention, most likely, and will be less easily overlooked as just a bunch of hippies.

This will get them more media attention, most likely, and will be less easily overlooked as just a bunch of hippies.

That is, until Brittney gets another tattoo.

No thanks. Squalor holds no great appeal for me. Neither does a bunch of grown adults tooling around on smog machines.

Smog machines, even though they're far more fuel efficient than automobiles, with nearly fifty miles per gallon, city?

Why they can't plant 10,000 trees or remove garbage from 10,000 km of roadway instead of needlessly burning fuel is beyond me. Idiocy is idiocy - there is no right or wrong to consider.

Because it's not FUN! :p

I seriously consider that you stop off at Walter Reed Military Hospital and visit the wounded soldiers living in squalor there.

No thanks. Squalor holds no great appeal for me. Neither does a bunch of grown adults tooling around on smog machines.

No thanks. Squalor holds no great appeal for me. Neither does a bunch of grown adults tooling around on smog machines.

That was a suggestion for the people organizing the event. though if you went there, you might realize that these people DO need some media attention, so the army will be forced to stop screwing them over.

And run a dozen V8 engines in place of their air conditioning system.
You think they have air conditioning? They barely have roofs.

You think they have air conditioning? They barely have roofs.

Precisely why they need the engines to circulate the air. (And a bit of carbon monoxide, but no big deal, right?)

Smog machines, even though they're far more fuel efficient than automobiles, with nearly fifty miles per gallon, city?

And? I don't care for 'not as bad as'. That's not the point. It's bad, period.

Smog machines, even though they're far more fuel efficient than automobiles, with nearly fifty miles per gallon, city?

So? So they're more fuel-efficent smog machines. Big deal. Doesn't mean they produce fewer noxious emissions.

That was a suggestion for the people organizing the event. though if you went there, you might realize that these people DO need some media attention, so the army will be forced to stop screwing them over.

They screwed themselves over the moment they signed the dotted line. I'm unsympathetic.

And? I don't care for 'not as bad as'. That's not the point. It's bad, period.

Even if the good outweighs the bad?

Even if the good outweighs the bad?

Yes, when we have much better options readily available. There's walks for cancer. That not good enough for the soldiers? We can build parks, save the whale, whatever. There's many things you can do for them that don't involve so much trouble.

Cool! I wish you all a fun and safe trip. And it's good to hear from you. :)

Thank you! I always intended to put in an appearance now and then anyway, so I decided to let those of you who actually care to know what I'm up to. :)

Well go figure, you're going to be passing through my hometown.

This is the most exciting thing to happen to Escanaba since...ever.

LOL! Things kinna ... desperate in Escanaba, are they? :D

Stop out and wave at us as we go by! I promise to wave back. :)

What a waste of petrol. They should have a (bi)cyclethon or somesuch. Something fun that promotes a healthier activity instead. Or perhaps a read-athon, you could raise money and promote literacy at the same time. Motorcycling 10,000 miles just seems completely out-of-step with the times - like it's still 1967, and not 2007.

LOL! Things kinna ... desperate in Escanaba, are they? :D

Stop out and wave at us as we go by! I promise to wave back. :)

Unfourtunately, I'll probably be at the AFA when you guys roll by. :(

Well go figure, you're going to be passing through my hometown.

This is the most exciting thing to happen to Escanaba since...ever.
How about the time Jeff Danials wrote and produced the play/movie Escanaba in the Moonlight?

(I only know about it because I used to live in Chelsea and went to school with his eldest son)

So? So they're more fuel-efficent smog machines. Big deal. Doesn't mean they produce fewer noxious emissions.

If you're so against smog machines, I have a suggestion.

Sell your car and bike wherever you have to go. If you care enough about the environment to bitch as much as you are, then why don't you give up automobiles and air conditioning?

Unfourtunately, I'll probably be at the AFA when you guys roll by. :(

Oh. I would hardly call THAT "unfortunate!" Congratulations! :)

How about the time Jeff Danials wrote and produced the play/movie Escanaba in da Moonlight?

(I only know about it because I used to live in Chelsea and went to school with his eldest son)

Corrected.

And no, that sucked. He blocked up the city for weeks during the shooting. His crew took up every single hotel room in the damned city.

Plus, Jeff Daniels is washed up.

If you're so against smog machines, I have a suggestion.
Okay, shoot.
Sell your car
I've never owned a car.
and bike wherever you have to go.
I do. Or I ride public transit. Or I walk. Wherever I have to go.
If you care enough about the environment to bitch as much as you are, then why don't you give up automobiles
Never took them up.
and air conditioning?
My air-conditioning is limited to two upper rooms; both air-conditioners are up-to-date, within code and very energy-efficient. Neither room is continuously cooled, only when the rooms are in use - and even then, only when necessary. Neither room is terribly large, either. Windows are wonderful things. Whenever possible, I take advantage of cross-breezes to keep air circulating in the summer months. Oh, and I also cheat the heat with ice-cold showers, too.

So what problem you got now?

Okay, shoot.

I've never owned a car.

I do. Or I ride public transit. Or I walk. Wherever I have to go.

Never took them up.

My air-conditioning is limited to two upper rooms; both air-conditioners are up-to-date, within code and very energy-efficient. Neither room is continuously cooled, only when the rooms are in use - and even then, only when necessary. Neither room is terribly large, either. Windows are wonderful things. Whenever possible, I take advantage of cross-breezes to keep air circulating in the summer months. Oh, and I also cheat the heat with ice-cold showers, too.

So what problem you got now?

how much energy are you wasting on the computer? what's your carbon footprint? how much of your food is locally and organically grown? how much processed food do you eat? do you compost? do you recycle? do you buy new clothes or do you re-use clothes from thrift shops? how many CD's and movies do you have? how much energy do you waste using them? do you cook your food? how much energy do you waste doing that? why don't you work from home? then you wouldn't have to use public transportation.

Yes, when we have much better options readily available. There's walks for cancer. That not good enough for the soldiers? We can build parks, save the whale, whatever. There's many things you can do for them that don't involve so much trouble.

A "walk" for the wounded would be nice, but I wouldn't be able to participate. Firstly, that sort of thing takes a nationwide organization, and second, it's very painful for me to walk much more than a couple of miles now. :(

Oh. I would hardly call THAT "unfortunate!" Congratulations! :)

Well, the coolness factor has kinda worn out now, and the reality of 4 year bootcamp+college has set in.

how much energy are you wasting on the computer? what's your carbon footprint? how much of your food is locally and organically grown? how much processed food do you eat? do you compost? do you recycle? do you buy new clothes or do you re-use clothes from thrift shops? how many CD's and movies do you have? how much energy do you waste using them? do you cook your food? how much energy do you waste doing that? why don't you work from home? then you wouldn't have to use public transportation.

I dunno, how much time did you waste typing all that out? How much did your blood pressure rise? Who's eating this chicken?

Well, I know the answer to the last one, anyways:

http://www.fdb.cz/images/obrazky/5b47cb187ffafa246cf7a647b675ccf.jpg

It's Danny John-Jules eating the goddamn chicken, already.

I dunno, how much time did you waste typing all that out? How much did your blood pressure rise? Who's eating this chicken?

I don't really worry about it, neither do I worry about driving my SUV, or cooking my food, or taking my 10 minute shower in the morning. There are some things I am willing to be flexible on and some things I am not. No matter how many of you nag me, even when it comes from my own daughter.

If you want to make changes, good.

If you want to raise awareness, great.

If you want to bitch and moan about how everyone else is pissing on your parade because they are doing things you don't like? well, you might have to deal with people who will question you as well.

I see you didn't answer any of my questions though.

Well, the coolness factor has kinda worn out now, and the reality of 4 year bootcamp+college has set in.

Just work hard and give yourself a chance to adapt. Thousands of others have done it, some less bright than you. :)

*sighs*

Lessee - yes, I compost. Yes, I recycle. My veg is mostly organic. My meat, too. I make every effort to buy local produce when it's available, and tend to avoid out-of-season imports. The only appliances on in this house after seven o'clock at night through 'til midnight are two computers (I have no idea as their drain on power) and two monitors. All house lights are off, they are turned on and off when rooms (other than the computer room) are in use. I have a CD library that I have since ripped. They don't get played unless I am away on holiday. I have a video library, but no video player. I haven't had a player in over a year, and even when I had one, there was suprisingly little I was interested in watching. So, not much. Yes, I cook food - in a convection oven. Oh, and I had the old energy-inefficient water-heater replaced with a new model that works beautifully. My energy bills are quite manageable. I tried working from home, and hated it. Home is where I go to get away from work, not someplace I invite it in for tea. But as I'd already said to the rabid attack dog, I bike or walk where I need to, as well. Oh, and I've been known to visit thrift shops, yes. I make a point of not shopping at places with names that are terminated with "-Mart".

All in all, I'd venture a guess and say that my carbon footprint is a Helluva lot smaller than average. Do I know for certain? No, but it's still a fair guess.

And so I don't think I'm being a hypocrite for openly suggesting that powering a fleet of motorcycles for a ten thousand mile trip to nowhere is, from an ecological standpoint anyway, a really bad (i.e. incredibly wasteful) idea.

Am I to be pilloried for something else now, officer Smunkee, or am I free to go now?

do you take your own recycled un-dyed canvas bags when you go to the market? :p

wear your clothes twice before washing?

.........I think I am almost done, I have to confer with my kid, but she's asleep.

I see you didn't answer any of my questions though.

*sighs*

Lessee - yes, I compost. Yes, I recycle. My veg is mostly organic. My meat, too. I make every effort to buy local produce when it's available, and tend to avoid out-of-season imports. The only appliances on in this house after seven o'clock at night through 'til midnight are two computers (I have no idea as their drain on power) and two monitors. All house lights are off, they are turned on and off when rooms (other than the computer room) are in use. I have a CD library that I have since ripped. They don't get played unless I am away on holiday. I have a video library, but no video player. I haven't had a player in over a year, and even when I had one, there was suprisingly little I was interested in watching. So, not much. Yes, I cook food - in a convection oven. Oh, and I had the old energy-inefficient water-heater replaced with a new model that works beautifully. My energy bills are quite manageable. I tried working from home, and hated it. Home is where I go to get away from work, not someplace I invite it in for tea. But as I'd already said to the rabid attack dog, I bike or walk where I need to, as well. Oh, and I've been known to visit thrift shops, yes. I make a point of not shopping at places with names that are terminated with "-Mart".

All in all, I'd venture a guess and say that my carbon footprint is a Helluva lot smaller than average. Do I know for certain? No, but it's still a fair guess.

And so I don't think I'm being a hypocrite for openly suggesting that powering a fleet of motorcycles for a ten thousand mile trip to nowhere is, from an ecological standpoint anyway, a really bad (i.e. incredibly wasteful) idea.

Am I to be pilloried for something else, officer Smunkee, or am I free to go now?

do you take your own recycled un-dyed canvas bags when you go to the market? :p
Yes.
wear your clothes twice before washing?
Yes. In cold water.
.........I think I am almost done, I have to confer with my kid, but she's asleep.
I've been asleep for the last twenty minutes, myself.

*sighs*

Lessee - yes, I compost. Yes, I recycle. My veg is mostly organic. My meat, too. I make every effort to buy local produce when it's available, and tend to avoid out-of-season imports. The only appliances on in this house after seven o'clock at night through 'til midnight are two computers (I have no idea as their drain on power) and two monitors. All house lights are off, they are turned on and off when rooms (other than the computer room) are in use. I have a CD library that I have since ripped. They don't get played unless I am away on holiday. I have a video library, but no video player. I haven't had a player in over a year, and even when I had one, there was suprisingly little I was interested in watching. So, not much. Yes, I cook food - in a convection oven. Oh, and I had the old energy-inefficient water-heater replaced with a new model that works beautifully. My energy bills are quite manageable. I tried working from home, and hated it. Home is where I go to get away from work, not someplace I invite it in for tea. But as I'd already said to the rabid attack dog, I bike or walk where I need to, as well. Oh, and I've been known to visit thrift shops, yes. I make a point of not shopping at places with names that are terminated with "-Mart".

All in all, I'd venture a guess and say that my carbon footprint is a Helluva lot smaller than average. Do I know for certain? No, but it's still a fair guess.

And so I don't think I'm being a hypocrite for openly suggesting that powering a fleet of motorcycles for a ten thousand mile trip to nowhere is, from an ecological standpoint anyway, a really bad (i.e. incredibly wasteful) idea.

Am I to be pilloried for something else, officer Smunkee, or am I free to go now?

This whole effort seems to be lost on you, as you've basically said that wounded soldiers can be mistreated and you don't care. If this effort succeeds at raising awareness of the needs of wounded soldiers and how they are not being met, then I will consider it worth the price. this event is original, and originality is sometimes needed in efforts like these.

This whole effort seems to be lost on you,
No, it's not lost on me. It's just that I think it's dumb.
as you've basically said that wounded soldiers can be mistreated and you don't care.
Well, you got me there - I don't care for the military, and I have no sympathy for those who feed into or perpetuate that institution. But the one doesn't necessarily go hand-in-hand with the other.
If this effort succeeds at raising awareness of the needs of wounded soldiers and how they are not being met, then I will consider it worth the price.
And I wouldn't. Guess we're done.
this event is original, and originality is sometimes needed in efforts like these.
http://www.technofile.com/images/easy_rider_35.jpg
Hooray for originality.

No, it's not lost on me. It's just that I think it's dumb.

Well, you got me there - I don't care for the military, and I have no sympathy for those who feed into or perpetuate that institution. But the one doesn't necessarily go hand-in-hand with the other.

And I wouldn't. Guess we're done.

http://www.technofile.com/images/easy_rider_35.jpg
Hooray for originality.

Yes, because anything involving motorcycles is the same as anything else involving motorcycles.

While I am 100% sympathetic with you Dobbs (and incidentally have nearly identical habits with the exception that I own a motorcycle) a point raised earlier really puts the issue to rest. All those bikes wandering around the country would, if they were not participating in this event, be wandering around their local area, doing smaller trips, and be otherwise producing the same or even worse emissions. All vehicles are more efficient on highways than in cities since there is less acceleration, and many motorcyclists spend alot of time putting around town and the immediate area surrounding. Better to have them on highways if they are going to be driving, even if highways are bone-achingly boring and mindless.

Might as well aim it all towards something a bit more socially conscious, and whether or not you hold a great disdain for the military and its institutions I dont think thats particularly solid ground to justify letting a number of abuses and even forms of oppression slide by. Veterans ought to be treated better as a simple matter of human dignity, I'd say it is as simple as that.

At any rate, thats all I wanted to say. Enjoy the trip Eut.

what makes you so special that you get to criticize everyone else?

I believe I gave reasons in the post you quoted.

I take it you've never criticized anyone in the past then?

good for you Etru

No, it's not lost on me. It's just that I think it's dumb.

Well, you got me there - I don't care for the military, and I have no sympathy for those who feed into or perpetuate that institution. But the one doesn't necessarily go hand-in-hand with the other.

And I wouldn't. Guess we're done.

http://www.technofile.com/images/easy_rider_35.jpg
Hooray for originality.
Easy Rider sounds like a brand of lube.

A "walk" for the wounded would be nice, but I wouldn't be able to participate. Firstly, that sort of thing takes a nationwide organization, and second, it's very painful for me to walk much more than a couple of miles now. :(

...roll for the wounded?

All those bikes wandering around the country would, if they were not participating in this event, be wandering around their local area, doing smaller trips, and be otherwise producing the same or even worse emissions.

I highly doubt that, within the same period of time, every person participating would have driven 10,000 miles on their motorcycles. or the equivalent thereof in cities. It's not like they'd all just tool around for no good reason. Besides, if they just biked, then they wouldn't be riding motorcycles on the highway or at home.

I highly doubt that, within the same period of time, every person participating would have driven 10,000 miles on their motorcycles. or the equivalent thereof in cities. It's not like they'd all just tool around for no good reason. Besides, if they just biked, then they wouldn't be riding motorcycles on the highway or at home.

Actually they do just tool around because there IS a good reason. It's farking fun!

My first summer (Canada, so don't forget I get half the season of you folks down south) I logged 11,000kms. I am an environmentalist through and through but the one transgression I will not give up is my motorcycle. Frankly I doubt motorcycles are a big contributor to global emissions; we ought to be looking at industry first before hounding bikers.

Anyways its completely true that they could bike (as in bicycle) and that'd be both a challenge, a big event, fun as hell, and environmentally conscious. So yah, there ARE better ways to do this kind of thing, but there ARE worse too. Be glad it isn't a 'Trucks Across America' or something, because you know that could just as likely occur.

Thank you one and all for your comments. Yes, even you, Dobbsiepoo ... you make me consider the appropriateness of a motorcycle ride as opposed to something more "environmentally friendly."

I'll make every effort to keep all of you informed. I'm hoping at least some of the places we stop overnight will have Internet access and I can leave a post from the road now and then.

In the meantime, y'all be kind to one another. At the end of the road, what you remember most is how many people you helped; what you regret most is how many people you hurt.