The Parade

The key event that really strives to bring together the Harley riders and the local community is the parade. At the head of the parade is the segment known as the "Parade of Flags". Each HOG chapter in the world has the opportunity to participate and carry their own chapter flag. This year Mike and Jill Araiza represented the St. Charles Chapter and carried the chapter colors, representing us all.

There was over seven thousand participants in this year's parade. The logistics of the staging process was such that we were not able to hook up with Mike and Jill and get their picture with our flag. Should such a photo become available, will be sure to get it added.

For the rest of us, there was an extended wait just to get into the staging area. Lots of stop and go, in some instances, merely pushing the bikes along a few feet at a time. However, it did afford lots of opportunity to meet others around us and share the delight in our plight. Yes, that is sarcasm.

However, in reality everyone did take it all in stride and really made the best of the situation. As I have mentioned before, HOG people are indeed some of the best that one could ever find. They are a cross section of societies and cultures from literally all over the world. Yet the commonality of a motorcycle, a specific motorcycle, breaks down all barriers and unites us all in sister and brotherhood that transcends the differences.

From the very moment we made our way out of Miller Park onto the streets, the sight of the number of people that turned out to see the parade was nearly overwhelming. There were countless hand held signs stating "Welcome".

Both sides of the streets were lined for the entire four and a half miles of the route.

The parade ended at the lake front bring us to the Summerfest grounds, which was the sight of much of the Celebration activities.

Friday Along the Lake

It was a bit of a challenge to figure out just exactly where to go and what was going on. The entire Celebration event consisted of multiple venues in a variety of locations along the Milwaukee lake front. While the setting was incredibly beautiful and there were a lot of things to take in, it was a little confusing trying to get a handle on it all.

We decided to spend some of our day exploring the lake front areas from well south of the city to the near north side communities. What a awesome experience that turned out to be. Will have to give the overall Milwaukee communities credit for what a beautiful setting for the entire city. Was really impressed with the number of parks located along the lake. They provide a lot of locations for people to enjoy awesome parks in picturesque lake shore settings.

Our decision to explore the area was apparently a popular one. There was a lot of others out doing the same thing. The ample supply of shore line made it possible for many of us to be out and about and yet it seemed there was no threat of congestion.

Scenes like the one above were found in various forms throughout the Milwaukee neighborhoods. While we did not stop and partake of their apparent generosity, they certainly did convey a strong sense of hospitality. We did eventually make our way down to the lake front areas were some of the 105th venues were being held. After lots and lots of walking and looking and seeking and searching, we were finally able to find some information to better help figure out what the overall layout of the celebration was. By this time we were exhausted, but we did have a strategy for the next day.

25th Anniversary of HOG

El Groupo Foto

The St. Charles Missouri HOG Chapter of HOG was very well represented in Milwaukee.

The turnout of HOG members for the 25th Celebration was amazing, multiple parking lots were filled with motorcycles and the early arrivals had formed a line waiting to get in that circle the entire parking lot two times. It appeared that perhaps HOG organizers were a bit overwhelmed with the turnout. One thing readily apparent to this observer was that in spite of the fact that the magnitude of the crowd surpassed the capability of the venue, HOG people were amazing well mannered and respectful to each other continuously. They are really the very best people.

The crowds were huge, the entrance gates were working at full capacity all day long. Roads and entrance ramps leading into Miller Park constantly had lines of bike lining up to get in.

The bike show featured some very incredible looking bikes and attracted lots of attention.

In honor of the 105th Anniversary of Harley Davidson, this creative individual was able to mount 105 American flags on his bike.

The lineup of entertainment was remarkable, top performers were working the sound stage all day long and into the night. Certainly something for everyone.

Our ole buddy Bubba Blackwell was on hand as well as the Seattle Cossack, Indianapolis Police Drill team, Marion County Motorcycle team, and Bruce Rossmeyer's team. All doing their constantly amazing feats.

And if all that wasn't enough, you could take your shot at riding the bucking hog.

Run to Milwaukee

True to his punctual form Capt. Icerider had us all lined up, organized, briefed and ready to roll at 6:30 am on Wednesday morning. 15 scooters and a lone pick up truck had assembled for the trip and eagerly heeded all instructions. At his command engines fired up, kickstands snapped up, transmissions clunked into gear and clutches let out. Hatchet put a block on West Clay and we were on our way. We effortlessly made our way through the St. Louis morning traffic and soon found ourselves rumbling into the Land of Lincoln.


Well planned and scheduled fuel and rest stops had us stopping almost exactly every 100 miles. This seemed to work out very well for all fuel tanks and with a bit of squirming and gritting of teeth, the bladders were forced into the compliance with the plan.

Amazingly, each leg of the trip went by very quickly. The weather was nothing short of incredible and all riders did an absolutely remarkable job of riding in great group formation. Thanks to the help of good ole CB's, negotiation of traffic and lane transitions became poetry in motion.

Out third stop found us in Rockford, Illinois topping off the tanks and tummies as well. Additionally we had the extra treat of dropping into Kegel Harley Davidson just make sure that we were not passing up any absolutely "must haves". After all can't take a chance on not finding anything to buy when we get to Milwaukee.

Leaving Rockford we got away from the Interstate for a little while to avoid some construction work and the hassle of toll booths. We were rewarded with an extra bonus of riding through some beautiful countryside out of northern Illinois and into Wisconsin. Ultimately we were back on Interstate and rumbling along into Milwaukee. Rolling into the hotel parking lot was indeed a welcome site. We had just put in nine hours and the rapid check in work of the desk clerks was a super bonus that got us into our rooms and a dash through the showers to freshen up for a bite of dinner.

Oops!!!

Our plans for making it home on Tuesday were foiled. We had been skirting bad weather all day and made it as far as Monroe City, MO before having to succumb to the rain. The farther east we rode, the darker it was getting. We decided to take a break and give the weather a chance to clear up. While waiting we encountered travelers coming the other way, they were full of tales of hardest rain ever and water covering the road. Repeated checks on the weather radar confirmed that things were serious and our intended route would be compromised for quite some time. We decided to check into a local motel, spend the night there and not temp bad weather and oncoming night conditions. Under most circumstances traveling by motorcycle is the greatest experience ever, however there are times where good judgement and caution need prevail.

Heading Home

Monday morning and time for us make are way back to Missouri. However, we don't simple load up and look for the quickest way back. No, instead we once again get on the Iron Mountain road, just a great ride in the Black Hills with its numerous winding curves, 3 times it loops up over itself and the two tunnels that line up to give a straight through look at Mount Rushmore in the far distance.

Then it is on to Custer State Park and the Wildlife Loop Drive. Very scenic with opportunities to take in the wildlife in residence there.



As you ride along the drive there are signs posted stating, "Buffalo are Dangerous, Do Not Approach". I would like to recommend a couple of additions for their signs. "Buffalo Poop on the Road Causes Slippery Conditions", and "Buffalo Galloping Toward You Should Be Considered EXTREMELY DANGEROUS". Just a couple of our observations.

Pronghorn (Antelope) are just too cute to be dangerous, actually they are quite shy.

Leaving Custer State Park, we continued on south into Nebraska, eventually turning onto state highway 2, which takes us across a great deal of the state. Nice scenic, low traffic, 2 lane road, great drive. We made it to Grand Island for the night. A very long, but very good day.

Black Hills

Mount Rushmore

A visit to the Black Hills by a biker means at least three things, Sturgis, great roads to ride, and Mount Rushmore, in that order. I suspect that some of you made have a few others you might suggest as well. However, these would be on just about everybody's list. We had planned on just passing through, but instead we took an extra day and took in some of the high points. So glad we did. The roads and riding in the Black Hills are absolutely fantastic. This year especially so, there has been an unusual amount of early summer rain and everything is very green and lush. The Sturgis rally goers will be in for a great treat this year. And Mount Rushmore never seems to lose it's splendor either. Always an impressive sight.

Crazy Horse Mountain

We stopped by to check on the progress at Chief Crazy Horse, that work is still moving forward. This is a visit that I also highly recommend. The story of the sculptor and the sculpting is every bit as impressive as the character of Chief Crazy Horse himself. An amazing story to behold.

The Eye of the Needle

Those of you that have ever ridden the Needles Highway have this sight permanently engraved in your memory of favorites. As I have already mentioned, the menu of spectacular roads in the "Hills" is awesome. In this same area you need to make sure you experience the Iron Mountain Road as well.

Downtown Keystone

The town of Keystone itself is a very picturesque sight as well. Lots of shops, restaurants, stores and places to stay, all within view of Rushmore. A really quaint little place just to relax and spend some time, oh sure, money also....

Git-A-Long Day

After one last hearty breakfast at "Our Place", it was time to say our farewells to all in Cody and hit the road. For us that was not an easy task, we had so much enjoyed our stay and especially the awesome hospitality of Rick and all the staff at the Cody Cowboy Village. Our stay there could not have been more comfortable, relaxing or enjoyable. If any of you ever make to Cody, be sure to stay at the CCV. Highly recommend you make reservations well in advance, they are very popular.

Apologize for the lack of photos on this segment, we do have some, hopefully I will get to add them later. So be sure to check back.

The ride from Cody to Sheridan, Wyoming was every bit as spectacular as most of the scenery that we had experienced. U.S. 14A through the Bighorn Mountains will have you spellbound with every curve and crest. The highest point is about 9400 feet, so plenty of very cool air and great views. We did something that we had not done for several days, we took an interstate highway. But, we were wanting to make some time and get to the Black Hills early in the evening. That strategy worked out. We got there, made our way down to Keystone and settled in for the evening with plans to spend the next day in the local area and take in some of the sights.

Yes that's the setup for the next posting.

Celebration

4th of July, Cody Wyoming, children, moms, dads, families, cowgirls, cowboys, servicemen and women, veterans, police and firefighters.

A parade, bands, music, marching, floats, flags, waving, cheering, saluting, patriotism, pride, honor, respect, thankfulness, appreciation, love, understanding, joy.

Good people, caring people, rugged people, strong people, understanding people, hospitable people.

A richer slice of Americana I have never witnessed.

Cody Stampede

Our trip to Cody would not have been complete with taking in some rodeo. Well, that we did. During our time there the Cody Stampede was held, this is the big four day event for professional rodeo. We managed to take in two nights of the spectacle. Our first night there was punctuated with a severe thunderstorm complete with lightening and heavy rain. That didn't stop them, the show went on.

Bareback Bronco Riding

Calf Roping

The Women's Barrel Race

The ever popular Bull Riding

The Rodeo Clowns

Here the clown is distracting the bull as the rider is hitting the ground.

The local fireworks show capped off a great evening for the last night of our visit.

Parade

Celebrating the 4th in Cody.

Shriners

Have a Parade and the Shriners are sure to be there. These guys are doing their routine through the wheels of the monster truck.

Hole in the Wall

Picture taken from the porch of the original cabin used by Butch Cassidy, Sundance Kid and the Hole in the wall Gang.

Trail Town

Located on the original site where Bill Cody planned Cody City. Today this village is made up of original and historic buildings from around the area.

Homework Assignment

Ok blog fans, pictured is the grave site of Jeremiah "liver eating" Johnston.

Your assignment is to determine how he got his nickname and post the answer in the comments.

Food Update

I bet some of you becoming seriously concerned, I haven't mentioned eating for awhile. Well relax, all is well in that category. Right across the street from where we stay is the best breakfast place iin Wyoming. "Our Place". When you walk in the front door you are greeted by Ida Helen, her name alone tells you are in for great home style cooking. Yes, the sign is correct, 25¢ coffee.

There other great places as well, Wyoming Rib & Chop, the famous Irma Hotel and several others. I suspect we may be traveling home with an extra pound or so.

Our Place

If you are ever iin Cody, you have to stop in here.

Old Faithful

The signature feature of Yellowstone National Park.

Early this morning, our friends Dave and Kim departed for home with North Platte, NE the goal for today.

Barb and I are staying in Cody a couple of more days. Today we rode to Yellowstone, which is only about an hour away. Had a great day, beautiful weather, wildlife, and lots of fellow visitors. It was also good to see new growth of nature overtaking the destruction of the past forest fire. The winter and spring appears to have been good to the park, bringing out an abundance vibrant vegetation.

Who really owns this road?

Totally undaunted by all the visitors, this group of bison casually make their way down the road.