THANK YOU…THANK YOU…THANK YOU!!!! NC District Directors- Andrew & Vickie Butcher

Thanks to all the officers and COY’s that at tended our 2011 Operations Meeting on January 29. Being the new kids on the block, first Ops Meeting we have held as Dis trict Directors and just plain nervous we just knew there would be a 911 call made that day. We figured we would either have heart failure, panic attack or pass out from exhaustion. Thanks to everyone that was so supportive, so understandin g and long on patience, none of that happened. We actually survived and had a good time doing it. All of our North Carolina Team, from District to each Chapter Officer, ROCKS! There was a lot of information to cover in a short amount of time. Hopefully everyone learned somethi ng that you could take back and share with your chapter members. We would like to share with you some of the numbers and awards that were given out at the Meeting. Con gratulations to our 2011 Paul Granger Chapter Directors of the Year Award: Bobby and Alice Manning. We want to thank them for their hard work and leadership they have given to GWRRA a nd their Chapter. Congratulations to our 2010 Chapter of the Year: Ch apter NC-E, Cary, North Carolina. On the award it said “People working together in a committed way to achieve a co mmon goal or mission”. It takes a team effort for a Chapter to win this award. Thanks to Chapter NC-E for working toge ther to achieve your goal. Congratulations to everyone that participated in th e 2010 Visitation Program. We would like to share a few numbers with you. There were a total of 2068 total visits. The Chapter with the most people that visited either o ne or more times (does not include their own chapter) was NC-F2, Garner. Congratulations to D.P. Parham of NC-K2 Fayettevill e for being the number one in visiting chapters both in and out of North Carolina with a total of 44 visits. We had three chapters that visited all 38 chapters: NC-K2 Fayetteville, NC-Q2 Dunn, NC-Y Morganton and honorable mention to NC-A Greensboro for visiting 38 chapters but one chapter had already cl osed. Who says the Visitation Program in North Car olina is not alive and well? Not us. Proof is in the numbers. (continued nex t page)

THANK YOU…THANK YOU…THANK YOU!!!! (continued)

We would also like to recognize the Chapter Directo rs that received their first 2011 NC Belt Buckle fo r serving one

year as Chapter Director. Tom & Carol Scully……………..…. NC-E, Car y Mike & Joanne Brown…………….. NC-Y2, Mon roe Malcolm & Harriett Marquit …….. NC-E2 Elizabeth City Gene & Becky Arth………………… NC-Q Wilming ton Evan & Cindy Parton……………… NC-L, Moor esville Connie & Jim Branham………….. NC-B2, W inston Salem Thanks to each of you for stepping up to the plate and leading your Chapter down the roa d of FUN! Last but not least is the Plaque Chas e Program. We owe a lot of the numbers above to th e Plaques. The plaques

changed hands 86 times. NC-West, 18 times, NC-East , 20 times, NC-Central, 26 times, Tarheel, 22 times . We do love a little FRIENDLY competition in North Carolina. Jus t remember when you chase these plaques…..IT IS ALL ABOUT THE RIDE…..IT IS ALL ABOUT FUN!

We would like to thank our District T eam for all your help in making the 2011 Operations Meeting a success and keeping us from going into meltdown. We can not do this job without our Team’s support and eac h and everyone of you.

THANK YOU…THANK YOU…THANK YOU!

Ride safe, Ride often and remember: It’s all about the ride….It’s all about Fun!

Andrew & Vickie Butcher

NC District Directors *********

REMEMBER February 14th

“It’s All About the Ride, It’s All About Fun” Assistant District Directors (East)- Walter & Berna dette Snider

So far the year has started off great. We have visi ted a few chapters and had some fun along the way. The District’s

slogan this year is “It’s all about the ride it’s a ll about Fun” and it is a good one. It gets down to the basic reason we chose GWRRA in the first place, FUN.

The OPS Meeting on the 29 th was a big success. I personally want to thank all of the chapter teams for coming. We had a

big crowd. A lot of information was put out to get us going this year. It was great getting to talk an d laugh with many of you that I do not get to see much during the year. The day f lew by pretty quick. A few minor errors in the pape rwork and the handouts but hey; we are all human and humans make mistakes. All-in-all I think Andrew & Vickie did a fantastic job getting all the information, patches, rockers, handouts and many ot her things ready for us. The food was delicious and the company great. I can tell you with absolute certainty that Andrew & Vickie worked MANY, MANY hours setting everything u p. Please thank them next time you see them for making the OPS meeting f un and informative. They are working hard for all o f NC and I for one think they are doing A GREAT JOB!!!

Back to the subject of fun; I want to impress upon all of our chapter directors and chapt er teams all across the state to think

in and outside the box. Most of our members are use d to meetings lasting no more than an hour. I can s ay after speaking with many of you from all over the state that you want t o see a little more fun and laughter. You want to h ear a little less about all the rides the chapter went on the previous month and ev ery ride coming up the next several weeks. Chapter Directors, by all means, please put out necessary information but kee p it short and to the point. Detailed information o r explanations can go out via e-mail or by handouts that can be read later by your members and visitors. Try to balance your mee ting with information, fun, prizes and the Rider Ed lecture. Think of ways to change your meeting agenda. It is easy for us t o fall into a routine and hard for us to change it up sometimes. You have a w ealth of knowledge and experience within all chapte rs, use it, and ask for ideas. Do the mandatory and necessary stuff, but al so get some fun stuff in there. Keep up with your n ewer members and help them get to know the chapter better and all the thi ngs that go on.

I will end this month with this; warm er weather is just around the corner, rallies and c hapter events are starting. Please check out your rides, do the recommended checks, make sur e that tire pressure is correct. Riders are comple tely responsible for that co-rider behind you and artly responsible for the other ride rs in your group. Be safe, be careful and have some FUN!!!

Hope to see you soon! Walter & Bernadette Snider - ADDs East

“Time Flies When You’re Having Fun” Assistant District Directors (Central)- Ron & Alice Myers

Have you ever noticed how time seems to fly faster when you're having fun? It's been a week since the OPS meeting,

and my, my, my, didn't we have fun? The comradery and friendship just seemed to flow through the crow ds. Alice and I had a wonderful time, and we sincerely hope that y ou did too.

What a great way to begin the new yea r. With in excess of 270 in attendance, we went abo ut the business of

formulating our dreams, hopes, and aspirations for the GWRRA, Region N, and, in particular, the NC Di strict for the coming year. We have a lot of new officers this ye ar and I know that they're bringing new dreams with them. We want to be a part of attaining those dreams for our associa tion. Special thanks to Andrew and Vickie for the s uper job with the OPS meeting. Great!

WINGS OVER THE SMOKIES will be upon u s before we know it and I fully expect it to be the best ever. With enclosed vendor space, the weather will be less of a factor than normally. Although we have competition from Wing Ding in

Knoxville and a trike rally in Bowling Green, Ky., I only consider it a challenge. WE'RE AS GOOD AS TH E BEST AND BETTER THAN THE REST.

When (not if) your CD, ADD, or DD as ks for your help with anything pertaining to WOTS, please jump at the

opportunity. This is our chance to show the motor cycling world that the NC District of GWRRA puts on the best rally in the country.

Ron & Alice Myers Assistant District Directors (Central)

“ It is Hard to Believe It is February Already ” Assistant District Directors (West)- Tom & Dina Tow ey

It is hard to believe it is February already. It was nice to see everyone at OPS meetin g on January 29 th and there was

such a great turn out. Congratulations to Andrew & Vickie who did a great job for their first OPS mee ting. We had the fun job at OPS; we awarded last year’s plaques, gav e away money and started the plaque chase for this year. So the race is on, get out there and start chasing those plaque s.

We have an additional change in leade rship for 2011 in the West. David & Kathy Orr will be Chapter Directors for Y2-

Monroe. We would like to thank Mike & Joanne Brown for all of their hard work and dedication as Chapte r Directors for Y2.

We want to thank Dwayne Miller, Linda Hudson and Cathy Church for all of their support, hard work and dedication to

Rider Education, for all of the members of North Ca rolina and they will be missed on the District staf f. Congratulations to Wayne and Elva Gra nt for taking over as District Educators. Please make sure you’re MEC and Treas urers take the GWRRA Oath of Office at your next ch apter gathering.

Happy Valentine Day!

Tom & Dina Towey- Assistant District Directors (Wes t) Fun, Safety & Knowledge

STARTING NEXT MONTH….

CHAPTER HISTORY ARCHIVES

What makes your Chapter “special”? How did your Chapter originate? Any special events or people that makes your Chapter “stand out in the crowd?”

Here’s your chance to shout it from the mountaintop and let the rest of GWRRA know all about your Chapter and it’s members. Starting in March with CHAPTER “A” of Greensboro, we will be

highlighting an article written by your Chapter about your Chapter. If you would like to include a group photo, please feel free to do so. Let us know how you started, how you’ve grown over the years, and certainly why you are the BEST CHAPTER IN NORTH CAROLINA! Let fellow GWRRA

members know why they need to visit your Chapter gatherings and the FUN you have in store for them.

SCHEDULE OF ARTICLESChapter “A“ (Greensboro) ……….. March 2011 Chapter “A2” (Lexington)…….….…. April 2011 Chapter “B2” (Winston-Salem)….…. May 2011 Chapter “C” (Charlotte)…………..… June 2011 Chapter “C2” (Smithfield)…………… July 2011 Chapter “D” (Greenville)……….... August 2011 Chapter “D2” (New Bern)…… September 2011 Chapter “E” (Cary)………………. October 2011 Chapter “E2” (Elizabeth City). November 2011 Chapter “F” (Jacksonville)….. December 2011

*** PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR ARTICLE BY THE 5th OF THE MONTH TO: vbbutcher@aol.com

® ®

mailto:cbeautct=Chili

I

THIS WILL BE OUR FEBUARY MEETING

GWRRA NC-C2 Smithfield CHILI COOK OFF

Saturday 2-19-11

9:00 A.M. Start 12:30 P.M. Eat 2:00 P.M. Meet

Smithfield Moose Lodge 402 J. R. Road Selma, N.C 27576

Entry Fee…….…Free

First Place……....$100.00

Second Place …...$50.00

Third Place…..…$25.00

* Judging starts at 11:30

At intersection of 70A and I 95 hwy Take service road in front of J.R’S DISCOUNT STORE. Moose Lodge on right at end of road.

LIABILITY RELEASE I/WE AGREE TO HOLD HARMLESS GWRRA, THE CO-SPONSORING ORGANIZATION (S), AND ANY PROPERTY OWNERS FOR ANY LOSS OR INJURY TO SELF OR PROPERTY BY REASON OF PARTICIPATING IN THIS EVENT.

________________________________________

If you like Chili this is for you!

$5.00 at the door gets you all the chili and fixings you can eat!!

Special Prize Table!

Lots of Games!! Baked goods for sale!

Free Coffee!!

“ Closing Thoughts…” District Educators -Dwayne Miller & Linda Hudson

For those who weren’t at the Operations Meeting on January 29 th, we announced that Linda & I will be stepping down as District Educators effective February 28t h. A lot of thought, discussion, and prayer went i nto this decision. With work

schedule and family commitments and desires, we cam e to the conclusion that we are just not able at th is point to put the time and resources into our DE position to bene fit the members as we feel we should. Rather than let the District and its members, or our own personal lives and families , receive only a portion of our attention that they deserve and thereby suffer, we have decided to step down and pass the t orch to others who will be better able to serve the members as they should be served. We’ve been honored to have this position for the time we held it, and it was a plea sure to work with and get to know Educators across our great state an d those from other Districts, as well as both of th e NC District Teams we’ve worked with and other members of Chapter Team s. Thanks to each of you for the support and love you’ve given us during our tenure. We pray God’s best for each of you as we all move forward!!

That said, Wayne and Elva Grant, who worked with us as Assistant District Educators and Motorist Awareness Coordinators, have been appointed to the Dis trict Educator position. They have some great idea s and have already

begun making contacts and preparing for some positi ve changes. We have every confidence that they wil l be a great benefit to the District and our membership, and we trust that you will give them the same support and encouragement you gave us.

Every Educator I know seems to have a particular item that’s near and dear to their hear t and that they harp on over

and over. As many of you know, I kinda have two – mindset/attitude and protective gear. I work in co nstruction for a company that primarily does piping work, and I work with a group that specializes in high purity pipin g in pharmaceutical facilities. The plant where I spend most of my wor k hours has instituted a safety program called IFE (Injury Free Environment), not only for contractors working on s ite, but also for their own employees. I talked wi th the head contractor Safety Manager the other day before sitt ing through the 3-hour program, and through our dis cussion and the training, I couldn’t help but think of how that pro gram overlapped with what we in GWRRA try to do – t he driving purpose is to get participants to change their mindset and to promote a ‘culture’ of safety.

Huh? Essentially what both they and we want is for each person to take responsibility f or their own safety and the

safety of others by embracing and internalizing saf ety concepts and practices, not simply because some one else is making them do something a certain way.

(continued next page)

“ Closing Thoughts…” (continued)

To paraphrase Earl (the Safety Manage r), in terms of the construction industry: OSHA, t hrough regulations from their

inception in the early 1970s, has taken us from ‘th is point’ (holding his hand up high) to ‘this point ’ (moving his hand downward like a graph) as far as injuries and fatal ities, but for the last 10-15 years, we’ve pretty m uch flat-lined or leveled off – regulations and legislation can only take us so far. To get below that threshold, each person i nvolved in a particular activity must take hold of the concepts and take pe rsonal responsibility for safety – take an active r ole, not just a reactive ‘because they said so’ role in reducing injuries an d fatalities more. In both motorcycling and constr uction, we may not be able to completely eliminate risks involved, but we can certainly reduce them by actively working t o. For those of us who ride, this includes reading and studying motorc ycling safety articles and/or books, attending trai ning classes, and actively applying the things we have learned as we ride, whether physical actions or mental concepts.

About an hour or so of the 3-hour IFE training class was a video featuring Charlie Morec raft. In 1980, after 15 years of

refinery service with Exxon, Charlie was burned ove r 50% of his body in a refinery explosion. Arguabl y, it could be said that Charlie caused the explosion. In the process of performing his job one night on midnight shift, he took some shortcuts around safety precautions, and through a catastrophic chain of events, the explosion occurre d and he was terribly injured. He’s now a very outspoken propon ent of safety. When I pulled up his website (www.charliemorecraft.com ), there’s a short video introduction by Charlie. In that clip, he says that the site isn’t designed and his purpose is not to tell you how to do your job safely – he’s not the ‘how-to’ guy, but he is the ‘why-to’

guy. He goes on to say, and the head quote on the site is, “Safety is about going home at the end of the day, kissing your wife, and hugging your kids…” With a little s hift in wording, that quote applies to each one of us, whether we’re talking about work, going about our ‘typical’ daily activities, or riding. Safety isn’t about doing t hings just because we’re told we have to, but because we have the mindset an d active desire to park our bikes at home at the en d of a day or ride, with both us (rider and co-rider) and our bikes in one piece, and being able to kiss, hug, and hold ou r loved ones, whether they be spouse, parents, kids, grandkids, o r whoever. And that desire inside each of us shoul d extend to our friends and riding buddies – the desire that each o f them be able to do the same with their loved ones .

In addition to the physical results o f this event, he also talked about the emotional/ps ychological impact of his

accident, both on him and on his family. The safet y that we practice as we ride doesn’t just affect u s, but it also affects our family, friends, and co-workers, whether they a re riding with us or even ride at all. A crash is a major event, physically, emotionally, psychologically, and finan cially, and it has far-reaching impacts that we may not realize until later.

That explains the main concept behind IFE and the Rider Education Program purposes. Now to my other personal

hot button. Though it’s not the main crux of his v ideo, Charlie mentions numerous times about PPE (Pe rsonal Protective Equipment) or protective clothing. Had he been wea ring all the protective gear he should have been, p erhaps at least his own injuries would have been lessened. He ended up with a face full of chemicals (with no safety glas ses) that decreased his vision, which may have hurt his chanc es of getting out of the immediate area before the explosion. He was wearing fire-retardant clothing, but because of the heat (it was May) and partially because of the ‘macho’ factor, he’d cut the long sleeves off to make it a cooler short sleeve shirt. At one point in the video, he pulled up his sleeves to show the distinct line where the burn scars stopped at t he bottom of his sleeves. One of my most frequently used phrases is that if you want to use something later in life, pr otect it with proper gear. He still has his arms, hands, and fingers, and at least most of the use of them, but he’s gone throug h a lot to have it. Protective gear and its proper use is a result of your mindset and attitude about safety. Do you wear you rs?

(continued next page)

“ Closing Thoughts…” (continued)

We urge each of you to take safety se riously and personally, in all aspects of your ridi ng and non-riding life. Evaluate

the mindset and attitude you have about safety. Do you have a positive, active, and pro-active attitu de toward safety, or do you have a ‘because they said so’ attitude about it? Are there any areas that you may need to make adjustments? If so, please make those adjustments – for you and for those who love you. You’d want them to, right?

As always, remember that;

Safety is for life, so… Ride Safe, Live to Ride Again!

Dwayne & Linda NC District Educators, 2010-2011

919-550-0814 NCF2Educator@yahoo.com

*****************

The NC Rider Education Team is giving away a single -tone factory color-matched Thoroughbred Motorsports GLT trailer at Wings Over the Smokies.

Tickets this year are only $1.00! See your Chapter Educator or any member of the Dist rict Rider Education Team for tickets!!

“QUICK TIPS:Ten Things All Car & Truck Drivers Should Know About Motorcycles” Assistant District Educators -Wayne & Elva Grant

QUICK TIPS: Ten Things All Car & Truck Drivers Shou ld Know About Motorcycles

1. There are a lot more cars and truc ks than motorcycles on the road, and some drivers d on't "recognize" a motorcycle; they ignore it (usually unintentionally ). Look for motorcycles, especially when checking t raffic at an intersection.

2. Because of its small size, a motor cycle may look farther away than it is. It may also be difficult to judge a

motorcycle’s speed. When checking traffic to turn a t an intersection or into (or out of) a driveway, p redict a motorcycle is closer than it looks.

3. Because of its small size, a motor cycle can be easily hidden in a car’s blind spots ( door/roof pillars) or masked by

objects or backgrounds outside a car (bushes, fence s, bridges, etc). Take an extra moment to thoroughl y check traffic, whether you're changing lanes or turning at interse ctions.

4. Because of its small size a motorc ycle may seem to be moving faster than it really is . Don't assume all

motorcyclists are speed demons. 5. Motorcyclists often slow by downsh ifting or merely rolling off the throttle, thus not activating the brake light. Allow

more following distance, say 3 or 4 seconds. At int ersections, predict a motorcyclist may slow down wi thout visual warning.

6. Turn signals on a motorcycle usual ly are not self-canceling, thus some riders, (espec ially beginners) sometimes

forget to turn them off after a turn or lane change . Make sure a motorcycle's signal is for real. (continued next page)

QUICK TIPS: Ten Things All Car & Truck Drivers Shou ld Know About Motorcycles (continued)

7. Motorcyclists often adjust positio n within a lane to be seen more easily and to minim ize the effects of road debris,

passing vehicles, and wind. Understand that motorcy clists adjust lane position for a purpose, not to b e reckless or show off or to allow you to share the lane with them.

8. Maneuverability is one of a motorc ycle's better characteristics, especially at slower speeds and with good road

conditions, but don't expect a motorcyclist to alwa ys be able to dodge out of the way. 9. Stopping distance for motorcycles is nearly the same as for cars, but slippery paveme nt makes stopping quickly

difficult. Allow more following distance behind a m otorcycle because it can't always stop "on a dime." 10. When a motorcycle is in motion, d on't think of it as motorcycle; think of it as a pe rson.

www.msf-usa.org **********************

GWRRA Rider Education is to help train the riders. Motorist Awareness is for us, the Riders, to help train the non-riding

public about motorcycles.

Please ride SAFE and help spread the word.

Wayne & Elva Grant NC Assistant Rider Educators

NC Motorist Awareness Coordinators

“This month LTP means “Learning from The Past” Leadership Trainers- Alan & Carolyn Little

Greetings Goldwingers! We hope you’ve treated your “Special Valentine” very special this month. There are nume rous areas in our lives to experience the

spirit of gratitude and nurturing, but having that “special love” to share them with must be at the to p of our lists. This month LTP means “Learning from The Past” or “Leaving The Past”. Whether we’re hist ory buffs or not, surely we’ve all been

able to extract some wisdom from past events that s erve to make us better or more complete. Many of th ose lessons must be learned by personally experiencing what we may see as unple asant happenings, such as that uncontrollable drive to touch the hot pot just to make sure it’s really hot. Or perhaps it was the fr esh coat of paint on the kitchen cabinets that dema nded a test to see how wet the paint actually is. And what little country boy hasn ’t been tempted to see if that electric fence reall y has a jolt. (Hint: If it can clip a weed…well you get the idea) And of course there was the divine warning issued by our mothers, “don’t c ross your eyes, or they’ll get stuck that way”. I mean really Mom, now the greates t challenge of my childhood is to see if I can real ly get my eyes stuck crossed! And another, want rain – wash and wax the motorcycl e.

Another truth concerning the past is, “If we always do what we’ve always done, we’ll always get what we’ve always gotten”. That’s a challenge for us to decide to take new ris ks, go in a different direction, or occasionally ac cept a challenge or task that we’ve always avoided. Is it comfortable? Accepting a new area of responsibility is seldom painless. We feel inadequate, unprepared and imperfect. Guess what…that’s normal. Leaders most a lways enter positions with apprehensions, fears and looking over their shoulders for the exit door. While some folks seem to have the knack of public speaking and taking cha rge, there really aren’t any born leaders. They must learn those leadership skil ls, and develop supervisory practices on the job. O ne obstacle many fear is being placed up front, where our flaws and imperfections are obvious to all. Guess what, none of us are even close to flawless.

So, if some of these fears are still lingering around from your past, it’s time to both “learn from them”, and “leave them there”. We can’t change what’s happened in the past, even the past minute. But we can decide and determine to mak e a difference in the future.

Let me end with a little story I rea d last week: A tough looking biker was riding his Harley when he sees a girl about to jump off a bri dge so he stops."What are you doing?" he

asks."I'm going to commit suicide," she says. While he did not want to appear insensitive, he didn't w ant to miss an opportunity so he asked, “Well, before you jump, why don't you give m e a kiss?" So, she does. After she's finished, the biker says, "Wow! That was the best kiss I have ever had. That's a real talent you are wasting. You could be famous. Why are you comm itting suicide?" "My parents don't like me dressing up like a girl......"

Ride Safe and make some memories, Alan & Carolyn Little

“This month LTP means “Learning from The Past” (continued)

Let me end with a little story I read last week: A tough looking biker was riding his Harley when he sees a girl about to jump off a brid ge so he stops."What are you

doing?" he asks."I'm going to commit suicide," she says. While he did not want to appear insensitive, he didn't want to miss an opportunity so he asked, “Well, before you jump, why don't you give me a kiss?" So, she does. After she's finished, the biker says, "Wow! That was the best k iss I have ever had. That's a real talent you are w asting. You could be famous. Why are you committing suicide?" "My parent s don't like me dressing up like a girl......"

Ride Safe and make some memories,

Alan & Carolyn Little Leadership Trainers **********************

February Leadership Training Classes:

NC - Central Region will conduct an all day series of seminars covering Chapter Leadership skills on February 12, 2011 at Kernersville Fire Dept. with t he contact person being Tom Fitzgerald, email: tomfitz@triadbiz.rr.com for any questions, directions etc. New Instructor C andidates will be conducting the majority of the se minars, and would appreciate your support.

NC - West Region will conduct an all day series of seminars covering Chapter Leadership Skills on February 26, 2011 at the J.Iverson Riddle Center with the co ntact person being John Williams, email: Williams4822@bellsouth.net for any questions, directions etc. New Instructor C andidates will be conducting all of the seminars, a nd would appreciate your support.

“Honoring One of Our Own” Chapter NC-A2

As some of you may know, we usually h ave a barbershop quartet come into our February mee ting and sing as a

Valentine's gift to the chapter members. Although m any people look forward to that every year, includi ng us, that has become too expensive. We believe, however, that we were able to do something even better this year.

Back in November a suggestion was mad e to sponsor one of our charter chapter members and WWII veteran, Mr.

Guy Hanes, with a Triad Flight of Honor. You may ha ve heard of it. It is a Rotary International progra m that honors World War II veterans by flying them to Washington D. C. to spend the day visiting the WWII memorial there. One of our members, Lynn Nicholson, took it as a personal chal lenge to work through all of the details while tryi ng to keep it a secret from Guy, in case it didn't happen. She spok e to the Rotary contacts and received the applicati on. Then she phoned Guy’s daughter to let her know what we were doing and to see if she would help her gather the i nformation for the application. She then sent in the application a nd the $500 dollar fee (which was totally donated b y the individual chapter members) to the Rotary. Then all we could d o was wait, to see if he was accepted.

To our delight, we received notification in J anuary that Guy was selected to participate in the Apr 16th Flight of

Honor. At the chapter planning meeting in January, it was decided that since we couldn't have the singers at our February gathering, this mi ght be the perfect time to present this to him. Lynn contacted Guy’s daughter to let her kn ow that we were going to do the presentation at the February meeting. Between the t wo of them, they came up with a plan to have other members of Guy's family attend as wel l, so that they could share in the celebration.

On the ni ght of February 1st we had 82 people at our chapter gathering (we had the

Central Plaque). The gathering started like any oth er, with introductions and the Plaque drawing. T-2 from Albemarle won it. Then, after the visitor introductions and announcements, Gerry asked the group with a show of hands "how many veterans do we have here tonight?"There were many in the room who raised their hand. After announcing that we were going to honor one of our own veterans tonight, Gerry asked Guy if he would please come to the front. He seemed a bit surprised by this, but you could see his curiosity begin to grow even bigger as 11 members o f his family came in to the already crowded room.

Gerry asked Guy to introduce his fami ly. He then explained to the group, and to Guy, wha t we had done and then

Lynn announced that he had been selected and the pa rticulars of the flight information. We read part o f the letter that was received from the Rotary, along with some infor mation about Guy's time in service. We also present ed him with the original letter, and a camera, so that he can take pictures to bring back and share with the chapter. We then asked Guy if he had anything he wanted to say and he quickly sai d "No!" He later explained that he was so surprised , and moved, that he was speechless. He also relayed that he was impr essed that nobody in his family said anything about it. Evidently they are good at keeping a secret.

Mr. Guy Zimmerman Hanes served in Wor ld War ll as a member of the United States Navy. He joined in October of

1942, and was sent to Norfolk, VA. He first worked on an escort ship, and then was stationed on the Ro osevelt, out of Ft. McHenry in Baltimore, MD. There he was the Chief St ore Clerk. He was discharged at Bain Bridge, MD in May of 1946. It is an honor, and a privilege for us to be able to prov ide this opportunity to Guy, as a way of thanking h im for his service and sacrifice to our country.

His flight is on April 16th 2011. He must be at the Piedmont Triad Airport in Greensboro at 7am for an 8:30 am

departure. Chapter A-2 plans on taking the place of the patriot guard and escorting Guy from his home to the Airport and back that evening. We will share all of the details later. We would like to invite any other intereste d members of our extended Goldwing Family to join us in HONORING ONE OF OUR OWN.

Peggy & Gerry Grotberg- NC A-2 Chapter Directors

“First OP Meeting was a Blast!” Membership Enhancement Program Coordinators- Ray & Pat Griffin

The first OP’s meeting for us is over , and boy was it a blast. We had 22 Chapter Couples attend out of the 27 Chapter

Couples. This equates to almost 80% participation f or North Carolina, and we hope to add more. It is n ot too late for the remaining 8 Chapters that do not yet have a Chapter Couple to honor that special Couple.

What a dynamic group of people. They dress the part and act the part of being the ambass adors for your Chapters

and North Carolina. At the break out session they a ll introduced themselves and told us a little bit a bout themselves with such excitement and enthusiasm. The District of Nor th Carolina is alive and well, and the Couple of th e Year Program is stronger than ever. Mike and Dean Stokes, your Dist rict Couple, spoke to the Couples and narrated thei r segment of last year’s selection process in which a number of Coupl es were very interested. Cindy Parton half of the R egion N Couple of the Year was present and talked to the Couples abou t her experiences as they went from Chapter to Dist rict and then to Region Couple of the Year. Everyone was having so m uch fun we ran out of time and were unable to cover all the things we had planned, but that is OK. We attended a Chapt er gathering the Tuesday after the OP’s Meeting, an d there were 7 couples in attendance.

After lunch we had our time on stage to present the Chapter of the Year. For 2010 the aw ard went to NC-E Cary, Tom

and Carol Scully, Chapter Directors. They were real ly surprised to receive this award, and we were exc ited to give it to them. Tom and Carol give their time not only as Cha pter Directors but also as Leadership Trainers, and we commend them for all that they do for our members at the Ch apter level and state wide. For 2011 Chapter of the Year we currently have 5 Chapters participating, but it is not too la te for more chapters to start. Just a word of note, the later you start in the year sending us your monthly ride schedule mean s you lose up to 2 points per month for every month you wait. So, get started right now!

We also set the Couples Plaques in mo tion. The West was won by Ronald & Bev Chapman of N C-O2 Hickory, Central

was won by Ronald & Linda Fargis of NC-W Eden and t he East was won by our newest Couple, Roger & Mary Felton of NC-S2 Sanford. They were all excited to receive the m, and by the time this article is published they w ould have moved at least once. The 2011 Chapter Couples rock!

Let the fun continue

Ray & Pat Griffin

“RECRUITING AND RETENTION” Jim & Gail Simpson

The beginning of each year is a good time not only to set new goals but also to reflect on the successes that we had

in the previous year. The recruiting statistics for the year were mentioned at the Operations Meeting; however, we believe that they bear repeating for the entire Membership, as you all had a part in finding new friends to sh are GWRRA with.

During the past year NC recruited 198 new Members to GWRRA. In addition, during the past three month period

(October-December, 2010), North Carolina recruited as many New Members as the entire Region did! Great job!!!

THANK YOU!

The top three Chapters in recruiting for the year w ere:

3. Blue Ridge Road Riders, NC-G2 in Waynesville………… 10 2. Winston Wings, NC-B2 in Winston-Salem……………… … 26 1. Southern Wings, NC-F2 in Garner………………………….. 35

The top three individual recruiters for the year w ere:

3. (tie) Nancy Wooten, NC-G2 in Waynesville…… ………….. 6 Nick Hamrick, NC-Y in Morganton…… ………………. 6 2. Jim Branham, NC-B2 in Winston-Salem……………… …...6 (but his household had a total of 8 as C onnie Branham also found 2 new friends) 1. Not surprisingly , Dean Holton, NC-F2 of Garner is first..35

“RECRUITING AND RETENTION” & “GOODIES” Jim & Gail Simpson

(continued)

We encourage all Members to carry GWR RA applications (and WOS flyers) when they’re ridin g, because that’s when you will usually meet someone to share the informat ion with. Recruiting materials, which include appli cations, prepaid envelopes, handlebar hangers, and some back issues of Wing World can be shipped to your door at no cos t if you call

1-800-843-9460 and request a recruiting kit. Call and get a kit for your Chapter Members and al so for your next Chapter Event.

Many CDs and MECs are working hard at updating the Full ARL with us, and we applaud thei r efforts. We’re available

to answer any questions that you may have, or help you in any way we can – just drop us an email or ca ll. During the past month Gail and I visi ted 5 Chapter gatherings and they were very well at tended and Members were

having a great time - and that’s what it’s all about!

See you down the road. . .

*******************************

Spread the Word!

5th Annual

Rocky RiverWingsOPEN HOUSE & POKER RUN

Saturday March 26, 2011� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �� � � � � � � � � � � � � � ! ! � " # � $ $ � � % % � � � " & � � ' � � � � � � % � � ( � � % )

Rocky River Wings is a chapter of the Gold Wings Road Riders Association (GWRRA). In order to participate in the Poker Run, all participates must agree tohold harmless Rocky River Wings, GWRRA, Iron Horse Motorcycles, and any additional sponsoring organization or any property owner for any loss or injury to

self or property by reason of participating in this event.

� * + , - ( . . / 0 ! 1 2 3 4 ! 2 3 1 1 4 5 . 6 * 7 8 9 ( . . / 0 ! 1 2 3 4 ! 2 ! 4 : 0; ; ; ) < , . - = ) 5 . >

? * . - @ A * 9 B C - . * ; D * D - E F * 9 C - 5 D @ , 7 C )G H I J K I H L M N I O I H P Q P R M L S T U U V H I I L M W M R O X R W Y N I J H I M Z J P[ \ \ ] ^ _ ` a b ] c d ` \ a c e ] c f c g h i h \ ` a ^ g ` j k l j f ` d m

NC-L2 LAKE NORMAN WINGS and TEAM CHARLOTTE MOTORSPORTS PRESENTS

Bounty on the Lake

April 9, 2011 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM 3004 Freedom Drive, Charlotte, NC 28208

Pre-registration - GWRRA Member $10.00 Non-Member $12.00 if received by March 31, 2011

Registration after March 31, 2011 - GWRRA Member $15.00 / Non-member $17.00

Your registration enters you into the Treasure Chest Ride and your chance at $250.00 GRAND PRIZE

Winner Need Not Be Present!

Grand Prize to be given away at 2:00 PM (right after the start of our gathering) Portion of the proceeds to benefit J. Iverson Riddle Center

Treasure Chest Ride

1st Bike out 9:30 AM, Last Bike out 12:00 PM

Chapter Challenge On Bike Games Registration $5.00 per Bike, 10:00 AM-11:30 AM, Games 12:00 PM 1:00 PM

Minimum of 2 Bikes per Chapter Must Be 2 Up Chapter with most points $100.00 2nd Place $50.00

Games; Catch Me If You Can, Slow Ride, Water Fall

Off Bike Games to Win Tickets for Door Prizes 9:00 AM-1:30 PM Let ‘em Roll, Sports Ball Roll, Cosmic Ball Bounce, Hang ‘em High, Ballistic Shooter

Come and enjoy the Fellowship, Fun, Food, and Music. This will be our April Gathering!

Preregistration – If Received by March 31, 2011 Make Checks payable to: GWRRA NC-L2 GWRRA Member(s) _____ X $10.00 = $ ______ Mail Registration & Check to: NC-L2 Non-Member(s) _____ X $12.00 = $ ______ 9250 Naron Dr. Harrisburg, NC 28075 Rider________________________________ Co-Rider________________________________ Address________________________________ City_______________ State_____ Zip__________ GWRRA #_____________ Chapter__________ GWRRA #_____________ Chapter___________ I/We agree to conform and comply with the ideals governing this event, and I/We further agree to hold harmless the GWRRA, Co-sponsoring organizations, and any other property owner or owners for any loss or injury to self or property in which I/We may become involved by reason of participation in this event. I/We also assume responsibility for the property for which I/We knowingly damage. Signature (Rider)______________________ Signature (Co-Rider)_______________________

“Are You Ready to Ride?” NC District Couple of the Year- Mike & Dean Stokes

Folks our District Directors have bee n putting it out since day one. It’s all about the ride…. It’s all about Fun. So are

you Gold Wingers…are you ready to ride? We all kno w the cold snowy January month has gone by and we d id have a few days where Dean and I broke the bike out to tak e a cold chilly ride, but that did not last long as more snow and ice fell upon us once again. We are so ready for some spring-like weather so we can get our bikes out and ride, ride, ride. I’m sure plenty of you are feeling the same way we do on this topic.

Some of us had the pleasure of attend ing the District OPS meeting this past month where we’ve been given some more marching guidelines to keep all of us having fun and realizing it truly is all about the ride. I t was really nice to once again see a lot of our GWRRA family from different parts of the state that we don't normally see that often on a daily/monthly basis. That too will change, as there are so many events planned from each o f the chapters this year. I know we all are looking forward riding to the events. We ho pe to see all of you and always remember to rid e safe as you are having fun, fun, and fun. Dean and I are still enjoying the hon or of being your District Couple. We are trying our best to visit each East, Central

and West areas to see all couples this year. Please don’t be upset with us if we can’t make it to your chapter meeting as our schedule doesn’t allow us that luxury, but we h ope to at least see you on the road as we visit the events that are planned.

We were very excited to see all the first time coup les as well as the 2 nd year couples from last year. Thank you

couples for standing up and receiving this honor to be chapter couple of the year. Chapter Couples we ar that badge of honor with pride as this means someone thought high ly of you to represent your individual chapters. Co ngratulations! It's going to be a fun year for all of the couples. Just getting out to each chapter for visitations along with making new friends will stay with you for life. (continued next page)

“Are You Ready to Ride?” NC District Couple of the Year- Mike & Dean Stokes

(continued) We want you to reach out to us and le t us know if there is anything we can do as you con tinue your journey along

with us in the Couple’s program. As you are chasin g that couple’s plaque, remember all those new frie nds are now part of your extended GWRRA family. We said it before a nd it is worth repeating it again; the friendship a nd fun is one that we know we have been enjoying along this journey an d we hope you too will enjoy those friendships as y ou are having fun.

Mike & Dean Stokes 2010-2011 District Couple of the Year It’s all about the ride… It’s all about f un

“In GWRRA, There’s a Place For All of Us ” NC District Treasurer- Janice Barker

Ever think “Oh I hope I fit in” or “I hope there’s a place for me”? At one time or ano ther, we’ve all thought that.

Everybody just wants to be a part of something that ’s bigger than themselves but accepts everybody. That’s the wonderful thing about GWRRA, there’s a place for al l of us.

My Tony used to say that Motorcycling was the only past time that made everybody equal n o matter what their

income, their brand, or their skill level. Many ti mes I watched his face in the side mirror as he pul led his Goldwing or his Harley up to a stop light beside a young boy on a f ast “crotch rocket” or a 75 year old couple on a ch romed out 1800 Goldwing trike. And over and over again, I saw the same look on his face…admiration, understanding, a nd acceptance. In the 10 years we were married, as we traveled acr oss the country, I saw it happen over and over and over.

From the moment we walked through the door, into the first GWRRA gathering, I felt that same warmth and

acceptance. I’ll admit that I was a bit worried. Tony had been very active in GWRRA many years befor e, in the late 80’s, with his first wife. He had been a bike show man ( as he called it) and rode with the NC Championship Drill Team. But that was a lifetime ago…what if I didn’t fit in??? Wha t if there wasn’t a place for me???

Clearly, I shouldn’t have worried. There wa s, and is, a place for me and there will always be a place for you too. Sure, we’re all tied together by motorcycles, but even if you have to arrive in the car, add a trike kit to your beloved two-wheeler, or if your motorcycling is memories in you r heart…you are WELCOME. Come gather with your fri ends. We are all family here.

See you down the road. Janice

GWRRA NC-02 Hickory

Yard Sale & Chapter Meeting

Saturday April 23, 2011

YARD SALE - 7:00 – 2:00CHAPTER MEETING - Starts at 2:00(Note: This replaces our regular Chapter meeting for April.)

• Bike Inspection Available

• Bike Oil Change (bring your own oil & filter) Donations Accepted

• Two Drawings during Chapter Meeting- Vest Drawing- 50/50 Drawing

• Hamburgers, Hotdogs, Desserts, DrinksDuring yard sale

www.catawbavalleywings.com

Directions: From the West - - Take Exit 126 off I-40 & turn left- Travel 3.1 miles on McDonald Pkwy- Turn Left on Springs Road at traffic light- 1.1 miles to Springs Road Car Care Center on right

From the East - - Take Exit 126 off I-40 & turn right - Travel 3 miles on McDonald Pkwy- Turn Left on Springs Road at traffic light- 1.1 miles to Springs Road Car Care Center on right

Johnny C. Perry, CD(828) 396-3777 (Home)(828) 381-3051 (Cell)

Ronald Chapman, ACD(828) 256-7192 (Home)(828) 244-8003 (Cell)

For Information, Call

Location: Springs Road Car Care Center1875 12th Street Ave. NEHickory, NC 28601

I/We agree to conform and comply with the ideals governing this event, and I/Wefurther agree to hold harmless the GWRRA, Co-sponsoring organizations, andany other property owner or owners for any loss or injury to self or property inwhich I/We may become involved by reason of participation in this event. I/Wealso assume responsibility for the property for which I/We knowingly damage.

NC Chapter Information(updated Feb 2011)

CHAP DAY CITY TIME LOCATION

AREA ON LINE? DOOR PRIZE POINT OF CONTACT - CHAPTER DIRECTOR

NC-A 2nd

ThuGreensboro 7:30pm Captain Bills, 6108 West Market Street (Route 421)

Central NC-A Website No Ken & Linda Worland (336) 310-3159

NC-A2 1st

TueLexington 7:30pm Capt'n Steven's Seafood, 4577 N. NC Hwy 150

Central NC-A2 Website Yes Gerry & Peggy Grotberg (336) 492-6664

NC-B2 2nd

TueWinston-Salem 7:30pm Mayflower Seafood Restaurant, 850 Peters Creek

Parkway.

Central NC-B2 Website Yes Connie & Jim Branham (336) 765-4526

NC-C 2nd

MonCharlotte 7:30pm Hillbilly's BBQ, 838 Tyvola Road.

West NC-C Website Tom & Sherry Wright (704) 392-2656

NC-C2 1st

TueSmithfield 7:30pm Parkside Cafe, East Alt Hwy 70, Pine Level, (off I-95

exit 97)

East NC-C2 Website Yes Kerney & Connie Eason (919) 965-8830

NC-D 1st

ThuGreenville 7:30pm Hibachi Grill & Buffet, 3437 S. Memorial Drive

East NC-D Website Yes Bobby & Alice Manning (252) 752-4520

NC-D2 3rd

MonNew Bern 7:30pm Golden Corral, 400 Hotel Drive (corner of Martin

Luther King Jr. Blvd. and Hotel Drive)

East NC-D2 Website Yes Pat & Billy Joyner (252) 671-4703

NC-E 3rd

TueCary 7:30pm Perkins Family Restaurant, 908 US Hwy 64 West, in

Apex

East NC-E Website No Tom & Carol Scully (919) 469-1600

NC-E2 4th

ThuElizabeth City 7:30 pm Golden Corral, 406 Halstead Blvd

East NC-E2 Website Yes Malcolm & Harriett Marquit (252) 426-1254

NC-F 1st

SunJacksonville 3:00 pm Golden Corral, 861 Piney Green Rd (intersection with

NC Hwy 24).

East NC-F Website Yes Jim & Carolyn McCarthy (910) 430-0460

NC-F2 3rd

ThurGarner 7:30 pm Carolina Barbeque, 733 W. US Hwy 70 (near Vandora

Springs Rd)

East NC-F2 Website Yes Shawn & Donna Lane (919) 567-9475

NC-G 1st

ThuHigh Point 7:30pm Pioneer Restaurant, 10914 N.Main St. (Rt 311),

Archdale

Central NC-G Website Yes John & Pam Muncy (336) 880-9639

NC-G2 1st Sat Waynesville 5:00pm Fat Buddies Ribs & BBQ, 193 Waynesville Plaza (off Russ Avenue).

West NC-G2 Website No Richard & Peggy Wheeler (828) 734-8495

NC-H2 3rd

ThuDurham 7:30pm

Mayflower Seafood Restaurant, 3742 Chapel Hill Blvd., Hwy 15-501 in Durham, across from South Square Mall.

Central NC-H2 Website Yes Dona & Danny Bowland (336) 228-6973

NC-I 4th Sat Asheville 10:00am J & S Cafeteria, 900 Smokey Park Highway (Westridge Market Place, I-40 Exit 44)

West NC-I Website Yes Allen & Jean Warren (828) 628-1757

NC-K2 4th

SunFayetteville 3:00pm Pizza Palace, 109 Hope Mills Rd.

East Yes Randy Moore (910) 423-4255

M2 3rd Sat Hendersonville 9:00am 280), Mills River, NC, (I-26 exit 40)

West Yes Bruce & Barb Lobach (828) 693-7924

NC-N 4th

ThuBurlington 7:30pm

Western Charcoal Steakhouse, 142 Graham-Hopedale Road - 1 block North from the intersection with N. Church Street.

Central NC-N Website No Libby Jennings (919) 732-7961

NC-O2 3rd

SunHickory 6:00pm Libby Hill Seafood Restaurant, 2555 US Hwy 70 SE

West NC-O2 Website Yes Johnny & Lou Perry (828) 396-3777

NC-P2 2nd

TueForest City 7:30pm Ryan's Family Steakhouse, 115 Ryan's Drive

West NC-P2 Website Mike & Lynn Humphries (704) 300-5595

NC-Q 3rd Sat Wilmington 6:00pm Carolina Barbecue, 2703 N. College Road (Hwy 132).

East NC-Q Website Yes Gene & Becky Arth (910) 297-6269

NC-Q2 2nd

SunDunn 2:00pm

Pizza Inn, 1138 W. Broad St., I-95 exit 73, 1.7 miles North on Hwy 421 to Cumberland Square Shopping Center.

East Yes Dale & Otis Beasley (910) 892-6604

NC-R 4th

TueThomasville 7:30pm Loflins Restaurant, 108 Randolph St.

Central Yes Richard & Shelia Boles (336) 764-4707

NC-S2 4th Sat Sanford 10:00am Golden Corral on Horner Blvd.

East NC-S2 Website Yes Bobby & Susan Womack (919) 499-1352

NC-T2 2nd

ThuAlbemarle 7:30pm Blue Bay Family Seafood Restaurant, 1901 East Main

Street

Central NC-T2 Yes Roger & Brenda Hatley (704) 385-9318Website

NC-U Lumberton INACTIVEEast

NC-U2 Laurinburg INACTIVECentral

NC-V 1st

ThuStatesville 7:00pm Boxcar Grille, 3103 Taylorsville Hwy (I-40 exit 148)

West Billy Johns (704) 883-9870

NC-W 3rd

MonEden 7:30pm Golden Corral, 1566 Freeway Drive, Reidsville

Central NC-W Website No Glen & Becky Fargis (336) 635-6564

NC-X 1st

SunWake Forest 9:00am Golden Corral, 11016 Capital Blvd.

East NC-X Website No Bob & Dorothy Richards (919) 435-8050

NC-X2 4th Sat Mt. Airy 2:00pm Golden Corral, 2226 Rockford St. (Hwy 601 S.)

West Yes Gerald Michaud (336) 789-8226

NC-Y 4th Sat Morganton 7:00pm Granny's Kitchen, 3448 Miller Bridge Rd., Connelly Springs (I-40 exit 116)

West Yes Rick & Jan Dancy (336) 372-4739

NC-Y2 1st Sat Monroe 10:00am Spiro's Hilltop Restaurant & Bistro, 1602 E Roosevelt Blvd.

West NC-Y2 Website No David & Kathy Orr (704) 560-5446

NC-Z 2nd

TuesRocky Mount 7:30pm Western Sizzlin, 1041 N. Wesleyan Blvd. (US-301

North)

East NC-Z Website No Cindy & Ralph Wahl (252) 937-7540

NC-M 2nd

SatSalisbury 7:00pm Blue Bay Seafood, Innes Street (I-85 exit 76)

Central Yes Alyce & Lewis Quinn (704) 467-2678

NC- Mills River Restaurant, 4467 Boylston Highway (Rt.

NC-L 3rd

TueGastonia 7:00pm Jackson's Cafeteria (Akers Shopping Center), 1453 E.

Franklin Blvd.

West Yes Jerry & Signora Long (704) 483-9460

NC-L2 2nd

SatMooresville 10:00am Golden Corral, 120 Gallery Center Drive

West NC-L2 Website No Evan & Cindy Parton (704) 938-2705

CHAP DAY CITY TIME LOCATION

AREA ON LINE? DOOR PRIZE POINT OF CONTACT - CHAPTER DIRECTOR

nd

DOUBLE CHECK WWW.GWRRANC.ORG FOR ACCURACY