Next Stop - Bar Harbor

Was up early to load the car and head towards Bar Harbor.  Had breakfast in the Clarion restaurant.  Gave my final "good-bye" to a couple folks.  Took me longer than planned to get out of Portland.  It was almost 9am before I got on the road.

Played tourist on the way to Bar Harbor.  Took coastal Hwy 1 to Ellsworth,  When I got to Bar Harbor, instead of looking for my hotel, I spent some time getting orientated with Mt Desert Island.  Drove up Cadillac Mountain.  Shot some photos.  Was a chilly, overcast afternoon. 

Stopped in at the gift shop at the "summit".  By this, it was time to find my room.  the Quality Inn in Bar Harbor is on Route 3 and you near the main retail area of the town.  Unfortuately, the assigned me a room way down the hotel (actually in one of the extra little building). The room is not convenient to the office or breakfast.  Worse, yet, it was a climb up from the parking lot up the drive and up several steps to get to my room. 

I complained that they should not put "Seniors" into such inconvenient rooms.  The only thing they said they could do might move me to a second floor room.  They gave me a song and dance about the reservation system does not give them sufficient information about me until day of arrival to plan.  No accommodation for a 67 year old, unless I had requested a handicap room in advance, it seams.  Well, I do not qualify for handicap sticker.  Leaving me a very bitter taste in my mouth about Quality Inn and Bar Harbor.

Lower photo is the view from the door on my room looking down to the parking area.

Drove down the the Main Street area.  Picked up a couple souvenirs.  Did not find a book about riding a bicycle on the carriage roads (and more importantly, a relatively flat road) to ride. On of the shopkeepers gave me a recommendation. Being after 5 on a Sunday evening, did not think the bicycle shop in town would not be open.

Across Main Street was the Bar Harbor Beerworks.  Looks like a good place to have a pint and a burger.  I asked for an amber or red ale.  The sever suggested Bar Harbor Brewing "Leafpeeper" Oktoberfest beer.  A nice way to end the day.  The burger was served with sea salt kettle chips (a lot of them).  I was able tp eat the burger, but too much food to finish the chips.

Stopped by at the office to get ice for my water.  Of course, its up stairs or at the far end of the building.  Ihe desk clerk said she would get some for my drink cup.  She came back with th 20ox cup only half-filled with ice.  Damn, they can't ever getting a cup of ice right!  Back to the room and struggled up to my room.  While tired, I could not sleep.  Processed photos drive to Bar Harbor.

Last Day of the Reunion

I have been getting aa little behind in my blogging the last couple days.  Saturday was the last full day of the Echo Company Reunion.

Normally, Saturday early morning those in the fishing tournament would head to boats (or in I case, the river).  In the Portland, Maine area, all of the fishing boats had moved south (where the fish had moved to).  So, organizers came up with an alternative.

Some of the ladies cut out construction paper "fish".  There was a "weight" of the fish is assigned to each of the fish.  The weight was not revealed until the fish was "caught".   There was one person behind a draped sheet where she would attached a fish.

The fisherman (fisherwoman) would sit in a chair sitting with the fishing rod.  "Cast" over the sheet and dangle the "hook".  Behind the sheet, a paper fish would be attached.

Lastly the fish would be reeled in and shown the re judge,  The weight was revealed.  Ended up being a popular indoor activity.  The upper photo shows a joke pulled on one of the wives,

Normally, on Saturday during fishing i would head out for a bicycle ride.  With the late fishing start and and my need to fishing packing, I opted to go to the room and work on packing my bags.  At 3pm were had the reunion business reunion.  this is where we talk about the next year's reunion.  Unfortunately, our 2015 reunion hosts could not make it,  We were advised that Echo Reunion will be in Highland, California during the week of October 12-18, 2015.

Time to dress for the banquet.  The banquet is a busy time for me.  As attendees arrive, and get thier refreshments, I take photos of the Echo Company member and then on of him and his wife/partner.  If there were additional families in attendance, another photo is taken of the family.

We were treated to a short concert by the Maine Public Safety Pipe and Drum Corps.  The corps also posted the colors for the start of the banquet.  The lower photo is of the corps in the banquet.

After invocation and greetings, it was time to eat.  Good, simple menu of salad, green beans, mashed potatoes, steak tips, and haddock, hard roll, and butter.  Several of us went back for seconds!

At each of the reunions, we take time to remember those killed in action or missing.  We also remember those who have passed in the last year.  There were a few door prized.  Then it was time to award plaques and trophies for the tournaments.  Lastly, there were the raffle prizes.

The banquet concluded with thanks and a benediction.  Last,hugs as as the folks slowly left the room.  See you next year!

Shooting Tournament

I understand we got a good amount of rain Thursday night.  Skies were forecast to clear later in the morning.  For this reason, the shooting tournament was delayed until noon.

This made it a lost morning.  Had coffee and a muffin in the hospitality room.  Back up to the room for a little nap.  Then it was time to board the hotel van.

At the Scarborough Fish & Game Assoc. facility, we met Roy, who served as out range supervisor.  Shooters signed releases and Roy gave a range safety presentation.  The first rank of shooters took their position on the firing line.  Each shot 5 shells at each of 5 locations.

The second rank followed suit.  At the end "Dead-Eve" Don won the tournament with Merv coming in second.

Bach to the hotel where Eric had his presentation "Revisiting Viet Nan" ready.  I had seen the presentation, so I went to the room for a quick nap.  In no time, it was dinner time.  Everyone was on their on.  I did not want to go too far, so wend a couple block the road to Espo's for some Italian food.  Had spaghetti and sausage with a pint of Sam Adam's seasonal beer (guessing Octoberfest).  Good food and been, just too much food than I could eat.

Back at the hospitality room, I learned some of our group were leaving in the morning.  Got their "mug" shots taken.  Then I was ready for bed.

Golf and a Brewery

 The hospitality opened about 7:30am.  Weather was dreary - foggy, threatening rain, and windy.

Thursday was supposed to be the day for the golfing tournament.  Unfortunately, the weather was not conducive to being out on the links.  The "tournament" was moved inside  The golf pro at our host's club brought a portable "putting green".  It was not as photogenic than the normal outside tournament. 

The tournament consisted of putting 5 balls.  I stroke per ball.  Most balls in the hole won the contest.  The was a financial portion of the contest.  Playing cost $5.  Winner would win $25 of Maine lottery tickets.

Time took much less than playing 9 holes.  the "green fee" was less that playing the course.  More of the attendees played.

The upper photo is of one of the reunion attendees getting a lesson from the course golf pro.

I needed a rest, to went to the room.  Got "horizontal" for a little.  Change clothes from shorts to jeans for the afternoon.

We loaded into the hotel van and a couple of private vehicles for the drive to Shipyard Brewery.  Shipyard is the largest craft brewery in Maine.  The tour started with a video about the history of the brewery.  This year it is celebrating 20 years.

Next, we were lead into the brewery.  Bruce (our guide) described the brewing processes as we toured the brewery.  We were not able to see the brew-house where the actually brewing process happens - the are doing modification/repairs in that location.

In the lower photo here, Bruce is explaining the bottling room and equipment.

The brewery also makes root beer and some other fruit "beers". The tour ended with the tasting room.  Over 10 of their brews were on tap for us to sample and enjoy.  They also had a bunch of pizza for the group.  Don't know if they do the pizza for all over their tours.  I was able to each enough pizza that I did not need to go out for dinner tonight.

I liked the Costo Bat Octoberfest  beer.  One of our group bought a case of one of their beers and put them in the cooler for others to sample.  i picked ip a couple this in the gift shop - post cards, t-shirt, and cap.  The cap has a bottle opened mounted on the bill of the cap!

Thanks for the great tour, Bruce.  Congratulations for 20 years to the founders and employes of the brewery.

A Great Birthday

Slow start today.  Was at the hospitality room about 7am (before it was open).  Coffee and muffins were being delivered to the room.  As folks drifted in to the room, we visited for a while.  About 10 am, it was about time for me to kit up for my birthday ride.

Headed to Portland's Back Cove.  Got lost getting there.  Poor signing.  Eventually found the parking lot.  Unloaded the bike off the car.  Rode the 3.75 mile loop around the cove.   Surprising, the Back Cove Trail surface is crushed stone.  I thought it would be pavement.  That's why I had brought the hybrid.  Luckily, the trail surface was well packed, and nearly solid as pavement. Though there were very few bicycles in the trail today.  Most users were jogging.

Back at the hotel, I brought the bike back up to the room.  The refrigerator in the room had not been working.  Maintenance came up and replaced the fridge.Showered and back to the hospitality room.  Found out another of the group enjoys riding bikes (road and mountain). We talked about our bikes and rides.   He's also big into photography/ 

The group was planning dinner.  I was concerned about if the places had a lighter fare and something other than fish/seafood.   ! could get a burger at the place about 25 of us were going. So, I signed up for dinner - besides, I was not looking forward to eating by my self on my birthday.

Changed clothes for dinner.  I ate with the group at Saltwater Grille.  The 1/2 pound burger, fries, and cole slaw ended up being more than I could eat.  Was washing down the food with water and a bottle of local beer - Geary's Autumn Ale. 

Was a beautiful evening when I finished eating.  Some of us we outside on the deck for some air and enjoy the weather.  Took a couple of photos and it was time to laod into the hotel van back.  Visited a little after back at the hotel.  Took some more photos.  As I was getting ready to leave to my room, three of the wives started at chorus of "Happy Birthday".  Some of the others joined in before they were done.  Awesome end to a great birthday.

Upper photo is me on my birthday ride.  Lower photo is view from the deck at Saltwater Grille.

An Orientational Day in Portland

With a full meal last night, I did not need a breakfast.  Had coffee and muffin in the hospitality room.  It was a day on our own.  Some when to Freeport to shop at LL Bean.  Another couple went to Kennebuckport to see the Bush's home.  Sam (our reunion host) took me on a tour of Portland. 

I wanted to the the Portland Head lighthouse (reported to be the most photographed lighthouse in the country and perhaps the world).  At the same location are the ruins of Fort Williams.  The tour continued to a couple other lighthouse in South Portland.

Sam took me to the Maine Military Museum, a private en devour.  He was  interested in my feeling about suggesting the place to folks from the reunion.  It is an interesting museum - artifacts from Spanish & American War to Afghanistan.  All donated, nothing purchased.  The owner/curator could describe each piece, who gate it to him, and the history of the piece.

From the tour, I was able to identify a couple places I could ride.  Unfortunately, all of the trails are paved - I was told it is about 30 minute drive to get to some wide singletrack.

Stopped for some lunch (I sprung for lunch - least I could do for the private tour!)  Finished up with a tour around the Portland peninsula. By the time we returned, I was getting time for the group heading for dinner.  I did not need any more food, to wet up to the room and processed my photos for the tour.

It was also the day to get my blood draw.  Orders had been faxed from the doctor's office.  The hotel van took me to a local hospital for the draw.

When the groups (there were now 2 groups out for dinner) returned, chatting with the guys and gals.  Took some photos of the attendees, and called it a night. 

Upper photos is if the reunion banner.  Lower photo is ruins at Fort Willams

Arrived at the Reunion

With only about 50 miles to drive today, I soent some time touring the Portsmouth, NH area.  Drove coastal 1B.  Had driven that routh yesterday, but too much traffic.   Was great to not have someone right on my tail.

The upper photo here is of the Portsmouth VFW post.  I spent a lot of time at the post.  While living there, I climbed up to Sr. Vice Commander of the post. the same year. I was Seam Squirrel of the MOC Pup tent.  Traveled all around of the state of New Hampshire as State Public Relationship Officer.  Lots on memories.

Time to head North.  Stopped at the Maine Visitors Center.  Picked up a state map and some local information.  Wanted directions to Nubble Light - York ME.  Was able to find it.  Lots of folks at this location climbing the rocks and photograph the lighthouse.  Lower photo is of Nubble Light, York, ME

Arrived at the Portland hotel about 2pm.  Checked into the room.  My room is on the 4th floor, middle of the hall.  At least, had I been in the end of the hall, it could have shortened my walk to the car (elevators on both ends of the building).  As it is, have to trek through the lobby, up the elevator, and half way down the hall to my room.  At least the room is big enough that ! am not cramped with 2 bicycles in the room.

Sam, our host, was walking into the hotel.  Stopped to great him.  Another of our group and his wife were checking in at the hotel.  Met them and took my leave (I had one of my bikes with me to bring it up the elevator).  Finished moving into the room and checked in at the hospitality room and pick up my name badge. greeted Maggie and Joe (NY - don remember the name), The Longs were there.  Visited with Linda and Clark.

They and I were both looking for some food.  Menu at the hotel restaurant looks pretty good.  The hotel was offering a 15% discount at the restaurant.  It was a deal!  Went to pay my bill.  Linda told me it was their treat - for my birthday and thanks for what I do for the reunion.  I had no mentioned my birthday to the reunion host, but Facebook spilled the beans about my birthday this week.

Called it a early night.  Processed photos from the day and napped.  Had to go back down ot the car for my pill caddy.   Time to get some sleep.  Continental breakfast in the hospitality room starting 7:30.

A Busy Saturday

Saturday during the reunion is always a busy day. This year it was no exception. The day starts with the fishing tournament.

I did not go out to take photos there (take too much time out of my day). I took a couple group shots before they left the hotel. Paulette furnished he photos for publication in the newsletter and the web site.

Once the temperature raised a bit, I headed out for a short bicycle ride. Rode the paved, Lakeshore Trail at Table Rock State Park. Had a nice ride on the road bike and shot a lot of photos.

Was just back in time for the group meeting. Had to decide where the reunion will be held next year. Drum roll --- Las Vegas.

The day ended with our reunion banquet. More photo work - photos of each vets and their spouse/family. A little time in the hospitality room and I was ready for bed.

For readers of my blog that wonder - I did not take part in the tournaments. I just took photos. Maybe next year I will organize a group bike ride...

Shooting Tournamant

This morning was the annual shooting tournament. The tournament was held at the Ozark Shooters Sport Complex.

Eleven reunion attendees took part in the tournament. Perennial shooting champion Don "Dead-Eye" was dethroned.

There was confusion following the "lead" car to the complex. But we made it in time for the tournament. After taking photos, I stopped in Branson for some shopping.

For dinner, I made it to the closest Subway. Had a foot-loog cold cut combo.

Golf Tournament

Thursday was not a pretty morning for the golf tournament. Drizzling rain and 50 degrees. Eight hearty attendees brave the elements for compete in the Echo Company golf tournament. The tournaments was held at Thousand Hills Golf Resort, Branson.

I drove a cart to take photos of the 2 four-Somes. After about 3 holes, the rain stopped. When the rain stopped it just felt cold. It was not just me (dressed in my camo shorts).

The tournament was a 9 hole tournament. One of the four-somes continued on to play the full 18 holes.

Dinner was at Florentina's Ristorante Italiano. Our group had swelled to 24 for dinner. Took a while (too long for my mind) to get our food. We were seated on 3 different tables. We almost ate in "shifts" since on table was getting about done eating when the next was just getting their food. Food tested good, most of the group was satisfied. I was NOt one of them - my food was not hot. it was just luke warm.

So far, I am 0/3 of dinner. Couple of us have talking about for Friday we may eat at Subway!

Table Rock Dam

Wednesday was a lazy day here at the reunion. Mostly cloudy and occasional showers. Temerature was warm in the morning and dropping later in the day.

Not weather conducive to bicycle riding. Spent much of the morning visiting. About 11, I drove down the Table Rock Dam and Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery. Time to play tourist.

Shot some photos at the fish hatchery. From there, I stopped at the view point parking lot on the lake side of the dam.

Next it was a stop and the HQ and Visitor's Center. Not much to see there. They are building a new Visitor's Center. The lake shore walking/cycling trail starts at the Visitor's Center. Time permitting, I want to ride the 2.2 mile trail on the road bike (the trails is paved).

Ended my tour driving to the trailhead #2. The first parking lot on that road is the only spot that affords and view of the dam. Nap time!

In the evening, a large group of us went to Charlies Steak Ribs & Ale for dinner. Much better service than Tuesday dinner. And, I was able to able to have my local micro-brew. The proplem was my food was over-cooked, dry. Others commented their's did not taste right. Some of the group had been to Charlies before and the food was great. So, food at Charlies was so-so.

Had to shoot one mug shot and play a DVD on my laptop. Visited Paulette for a bit while the video played. VERY tired (over-tired) by the time I got to my room.

Whipper Snappers - Branson

Whipper Snappers is located in the lower level of the Great American Steak & Chicken House, 2421 West Highway 76. Whipper Snapper bills itself as " All-You-Can- Eat Lobster and Seafood Buffet". Their advertisement says that if there are folks that do not the seafood, the could order from the Great American Steak & Chicken House and the food would be taken down to Whipper Snappers.

We had a group of about 20, so would be a good place to eat. The first problem we encountered was that while the 2 restaurants were together, we could NOT sit together in one place. Whipper Snappers has a limited alternative menu.

The steak/chicken restaurant upstairs was very busy. The sparse clientele at the seafood lower level should have given us a clue.

Anyway, we were seated. Part of table 1 ordered, my table ordered, and the 3rd table ordered. I ordered the bacon cheeseburger, fries and water. Tried to
order a beer but our waiter say - Later - once the food was ordered.

Most of those eating on the buffet started eating. Food started to be delivered to us that had ordered from the menu.

Some of out group on table one some how were missed on the food ordering. There were able to order. About this same time.

I tried to order an IPA beer. Our waiter tried to tell me I needed to pre-pay for the beer because they would have to get it from the upstairs bar. Another waiter (one that could speak better English) took my order. The only thing close to waht I wanted was a Bock beer. Which, I then found they were out of. I settled for my water.

My burger arrived. The only good part of our meal (other than the company) was those of use that ordered off the menu. My burger was tasty, BIG, and lots of bacon. Another of our group had the chicken sandwich - and reported that it was also very good.

Those of our group that ate off the seafood buffet reported that the food was not that good - specially with the price!

The Great American Steak & Chicken House/Whipper Snappers should close the seafood buffet and concentrate on the chicken and steak.

Our recommendation - PASS on Whipper Snappers.

Table Rock State Park

My first full day at Branson. After breakfast, I started planning a bicycle ride. Checked the internet then headed to Downhill Bikes.

Craig recommended I ride at Table Rock State Park. He said the Red Loop should just what I was looking for. I drove back at the hotel, changed clothes (into my riding kit) and loaded the trail bike on the car.

The first section of the trail was a nice, flowing singletrack/ No Problems riding it. Soon, I was walking the bike up/down grades with lots of rocks and roots.

After a miles, the trail tamed down and back into easy singletrack. (Top photo) I knew it was too good to think the trail would be like that all the way to the car.

In no time, I was back climbing and descending a rocky trail. The lower photo is one of the most challenging section - just to walk!

Like the start of the trail, the last few hundred feet are nearly level, easy, flowing singletrack. I was really tired when I got back to the car. One of the reunion guys said I looked like i had been through the wringer.

Lots of photos. All-in-all a good ride. No speed records - 2.8 miles in 1 hour!

Echo Reunion Photos

I have been spending rainy days working on the web site pages for the Echo Reunion. Burning the DVD of photos for attendees is on the "To Do" list.

Photos of the reunion functions are now on my web site. I am still writing verbiage for the pages. Also still working on the pages of my "tourist" stops on the way to and from the reunion. Finally, there will be the reports of my bicycle rides and trails during the trip.

Here's the link to the reunion report and photos... http://www.tomwinfield.com/vietnam/echo2010/echo-10.html

Biltmore and BioWheels

Today I spent much of the day at Biltmore. Bought my ticket online early this morning. That way, I saved $10 on the admission fee. It was a special for the month of June. Some motels had tickets (probably with a discount from the $60 admission.

I was the first "guest" through the gate. Stopped by to pick up my ticket and parked the car.

My ticket was for the first group. The tour is self-guided. If you want, you can rent an audio tour, I think the charge for that is $10.00. The thing that struck me was the size of everything in the "house". Large, even huge rooms. Ceilings that are 2 or 3 times the normal ceiling height. In the basement there was a pool, work-out room, 2 lane bowling alley, and more! A member of the Biltmore staff told me that with the guests of Vanderbilt, they needed activities to occupy their time. That's why all of the activity rooms.

From there I stopped in one of the gift shops. Did some shopping and had the purchase held for pick-up later. Then on to the Gardens.

First was the "Walled Garden". This was the most most striking garden. T spent a lot of time photographing flowers. Speaking of photos, there is no photography allowed in the Biltmore house. Even the outside of the building is protected under copyright protection. No commercial use of images of the building. I could not find any restrictions of photography of the estate grounds. Since this blog is NOT a commercial endeavor, I feel I can publish the HDR photo above. The photo to the right was of an arrangement in the Walled Garden (also HDR photo).

When I create the web site pages about Biltmore, the flowers in the Walled Garden will be featured prominently. Next to the Walled Garden was the grand Conservatory.

From the conservatory, I walked down to the Bass Pond. Along the path to the Bass Pond is its own "garden". a garden of various trees and shrubs. Then there was the Bass Pond itself with its boat house, dam, and "waterfall".

Then it was back towards the main house with the Shrub Garden and Spring Garden. By then, it was time for lunch. Had a burger, fries and beer at the Stable Cafe. Tried a pint of Cedric's Pale Ale - a amber colored ale. Quite good. Asked my server who Cedric was. Cedric was the Vanderbilt's Saint Bernard.

Before leaving the estate, I stopped by to tour Antler Hill Village. Asked about a nephew of a chaplain I severed with in VietNam. He worked other area of the "farm" and believed to be still on vacation. Left my card and a note.

From Biltmore, I went to BioWheels to check out places to ride. When I was talking with guys at the bike shop, another person chimed in about the local dirt trails. He commented that he builds trails - it was Ben Blitch, whom I have met in Rapid City and Little Rock. He happened to be visiting the shop, using a space to do some work. Small world! Left off my last two 2010 calendars. Could not think a better place to leave them.

Back at the motel, I collapsed! My legs are GONE from the walking. But, before that, I had seen there is a Dairy Queen 100 yards from my motel. With the heat and the walking today, I felt I had deserved a large Heath Blizzard. Damn, that tasted good!

This evening it time to decide my travel plans. I am thinking of passing Gatlinburg. First, the motel there requires no changes of reservations 48 hours before arrival. I don't like that requirement. And, the motel I am in is cheaper, I could just stay another day here. I have until 4pm tomorrow (Tuesday) afternoon.

Reunion Wrap-up

Saturday afternoon, it was time to finish repacking the bags. Took a nap, and prepared for the banquet.

The banquet was held at the N. Myrtle Beach VFW Post. Food was prepared by the folks of the post. Menu was stuffed chicken or stuffed pork, apples, carrots, potatoes, green beans, salad, cake, and ice cream. There was plenty of good food.

Guest speaker was the County Veterans Service Officer from a North Carolina county. (Sorry, I did not write down the names.) It was a very informative session.

No one offered to host next year's reunion. For now, we will see if something can be worked out for Columbus, GA (Fort Benning) as 2011 will be the 45th anniversary of the 199th formation.

The photo above is the group shot of the reunion banquet attendees. I am not in the photo because I took it (as the official photographer). I should mention I donated three 2011 "Bicycle Trails" calendars. Promising that the will be ready and sent September or October.

This morning, it was load the car and eat breakfast. Said the "good-byes" for the year. Was on the road about 9:30. (OH - and with all of the problems we had at the hotel, the knock off 2 night's room - that helped!)

Seemed that it took forever to get to Columbia, SC. Checked into my motel in Asheville about 4pm. After moving into the motel, headed to downtown Asheville for dinner. Looking forward a local brew and a burger, I took the desk clerk's advice and ate at the Bier Garden on Hayward St. Good food and good beer.

Was very happy to leave the heat and humidity of the coast. By the time I got to Asheville, it was marked cooler and threatening storms.

Plan for tomorrow is to tour Biltmore Estate and the Gardens. From there, stop by BioWheels bike shop to check out info for local trails.

Tournaments

Thursday was the golfing tournament. Before heading to the golf course, I went out for a short bike ride. First things I noticed was the computer was not working right. Someway, the wheel size got messed up. Tried to get it working, but no luck. Well, I had forgotten to wear my heart monitor, too. So, it was a short, easy ride. For logging purposes, think it was about 7 miles.

I went to the golf course to take photos of the group and tee-offs. Found out they had planned having me riding one of the carts. OK, will do that for a hole or two.

Well, by then, it was too far to walk back to the club house. So, rode the cart and shot some photos for the 9 holes the group played. Besides of the heat, I had a cart driver that smokes. Another year, if I ride with the golfers, will request a non-smoking cart-mate.

Didn't do much of anything else that day. Visited in the hospitality room. For "dinner", it was the "guys night out". We sent to the local VFW post for tacos. Was a pretty uneventful evening (except for getting lost). We caravaned to the Post. The lead vehicle did not wait for following vehicles that were caught at the light. Add to the confusion with conflicting directions - I was about to say "screw it" and head back to the hotel.

At the VFW, were were herded into the banquet hall. A couple of our group commented that we felt we were being segregated. So, was a early return to the hotel.

Played some dominoes (chicken foot), and started thinking of re-packing the room.

Friday was the shooting tournament. I thought about taking a bicycle ride before the group heads to the ranch. But, it is just too hot. I was not excited for standing around watching the guys (and gals) shoot, so just took a group photo in front of the hotel.

Another "do nothing" day. With the heat and humidity (heat index about 105) was just too hot to ride (even in the morning). Not really feeling like doing anything. Visited in the hospitality room. Wanted to do some computer work, but the internet was down here at the hotel. Word was that a power surge hit, and everything needed to be reset. It was finally restored late in the evening.

Alert: If for some reason you are thinking of visiting N. Myrtle Beach, I recommend the you stay away from staying at the Hampton Inn Harbourgate. We just had way too many problems with this hotel.

Later in the evening, grabbed the last bags out of the car to start re-packing for the return trip. Did more of that re-packing early this morning.

The fishermen (and women) were up early for breakfast. Visited with them, had breakfast, and took the group photo.

Three photos in this morning's posting: Top - Golfers, Middle - Shooters, Bottom - Fishermen (and women).

Sunset Cruise

Didn't do much of anything most of the day. Visited in the breakfast area. Went out to take some photos on the beach. Then more visiting in the hospitality Room.

Some were talking about going to Brookgreen Gardens. I was all for that, but the plan seems to had never gelled.

I heard someone comment it was too hot to got out. About 2pm, i went to the room and took a nap.

Many of the group are planning to take the casino boat. That was a 5 hour cruise that would not get back to the hotel until after midnight. Way too late for me. Several of us took a 1 1/2 hour sunset cruise. That was wonderful cruise. Just long enough. When we got back, the sun had set and there was a little coloring in the sky. Tonight's photo was taken on that cruise.

Myrtle Beach

Well, I have settled into the Hampton Inn - Harborgate in Myrtle Beach, SC. The hotel name is significant because of the problems our group has had. While the room air conditioning is good, the hotel air conditioners for halls and public areas (breakfast area, meeting rooms, etc) are not working. It has not been working for over 2 1/2 weeks (per those working at the hotel)!

One of our reunion organizers called Hampton Inn headquarters. Word is that the air conditioning is getting fixed this morning.

Backing back a little, I ended up taking the "scenic" route from Augusta. Road signs direct me (I think) a older route on 2-lane roads. Should have taken the divided highway.

Monday evening was spent visiting. Tuesday morning I was out of the hotel for my bike ride.

Today's photo is of the Super T on the beach yesterday. Rode from the hotel, to the beach. Rode the streets along the beach to get the lay of the land, and stop in the Visitor Center. Wanted to pick up a bicycle map of the area.

Disappointed that several of the regulars are not able to attend. One of my buddies from Nam is supposed to come here Thursday. (See if he makes it -- have not seen him since the early 70s).

Most reunion weeks, there have been suggested sight-seeing places, some planned tours, etc. This year, those of us here for the first couple days are being left us to fend for ourselves - plan our own sight-seeing.

I guess one group went down to Charleston -I heard it last night. Was thinking of making the trip down there but its over 100 miles, over 2 hour drive, and not looking forward to that drive by myself.

Battlefield Ride - Take 2

It was a foggy, damp morning this morning. I decided to ride the Chickamauga Battlefield tour route. Needed to ride this morning after the day I had yesterday.

I did not bring the battlefield map, so I only rode the tour loop, lest I get lost (since I have a date with the FATS Trail System near Augusta, GA). Felt good to be back on the road bike.

It was a busy morning on the battlefield roads. Many bike riders, runners, walkers, and folks walking their dogs. Even saw one guy blading with 2 large dogs. Looked like they were pulling him up the road!

The fog and heavy air made for a surreal sight. While i did not plan to snap any photos this morning, I could not pass up the lighting. I really like this photo.

After completing a lap (except for the spur to the Snodgrass House), I was feeling good, so headed on for a second lap. No pushing the limits (just a nice ride).

After 2 laps it was time to head to the motel. I ended up with 12.9 miles in 59 minutes. The speed maxed at 21.1 mph, with speeds on 18-19 at times on the flats. Average was just over 13 mph. That was the fastest ride on the road buke, the fastest ride for the year!

Most of the rest of the day today was just boring driving. After I got to Augusta, GA, I stopped by the South Carolina Information Area. Picked up more info and maps for trails and the Myrtle Beach area.

Checking into the motel and reviewed some of the into I had. Decided to drive up to FATS (Forks Area Trail System. I was originally planning to ride in the later afternoon but there were showers in the area.

Found the trailhead. the topology of the area was looking good for my riding style. Visited with a rides at the trailhead. His words were also encouraging. Picked up a map at the kiosk.

Looking forward to ride in the morning.