IN GEARAugust / September 2020 HIGH SIERRA POKER RUN PAGE 16-17

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BOARD MEMBER REPORTS 06 natural resource consultant 12 coming up 14 HIGH SIERRA POKER RUN INFO 16 THE FIGHT FOR OCEANO DUNES 18 HIGH SIERRA POKER RUN INFO 17 REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS: NRC 22 donations 23 license plates: all you need to know 26 FLAT FENDER VS. LJ 28 club directory 36 calendar 38

ON THE COVER: High Sierra Poker Run 2016 by Davy Rocha. Inset shows Panamint Valley Days in 2017 by John Labbett.

AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2020 / VOLUME 61 #3

THE IN GEAR (USPS 436-110) IS PUBLISHED BI-MONTHLY FOR $10.00 PER YEAR BY THE CALIFORNIA FOUR WHEEL DRIVE ASSOCIATION, INC., 8120 36TH AVE., SACRAMENTO, CA 95824-2304. IN GEAR IS THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE C4WDA — SUBSCRIPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE ONLY THROUGH MEMBERSHIP IN C4WDA. PERIODICAL POSTAGE PAID AT SACRAMENTO, CA, AND ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES.

PERMISSION TO REPRINT ITEMS IS NORMALLY GIVEN, PROVIDED PERMISSION IS REQUESTED AND PROPER CREDIT IS GIVEN TO BOTH THE AUTHOR AND THE PUBLICATION. ALL VIEWS EXPRESSED BY AUTHORS OF ARTICLES, AND PHOTO CONTENT HEREIN, ARE THEIR OWN AND DO NOT NECESSARILY EXPRESS THOSE OF THE C4WDA. C4WDA DOES NOT ENDORSE ITS ADVERTISERS, NOR IS IT RESPONSIBLE FOR THE ACCURACY OF ADVERTISING. SANTA MARIA 4 WHEELERS AT MOLINA POSTMASTER: SEND FORM 3579 TO C4WDA, INC. 8120 36TH AVE., SACRAMENTO, CA 95824-2304 GHOST RUN 2017 BY SUZY JOHNSON cal4wheel.com 3 WHO ARE WE? MEETINGS The California Four Wheel Drive Association, Inc. (founded in 1959) is a non-profit organization comprised of member clubs, individuals and business firms, united in a BE SURE TO CHECK OUR WEBSITE FOR MEETING common objective — the betterment of vehicle-oriented outdoor recreation. LOCATIONS AND THE LATEST INFORMATION We represent four-wheelers, hunters, fishermen, and other outdoor REGARDING POSSIBLE POSTPONEMENTS recreationalists. Ours is the largest organization of its type in California. AND CANCELLATIONS. THROUGH A UNITED EFFORT WE: BOARD MEETINGS* • Promote responsible use of public lands. August 22-23, 2020 / December 12-13, 2020 • Prevent legislation that would restrict off-road vehicles and vehicle use. Convention - February 19-21, 2021 - Visalia, CA • Develop programs of conservation, education and safety. NORTH DISTRICT* October 24, 2020 / January 9, 2021 / May 1, 2021 • Encourage state and federal agencies to develop new four wheel drive CENTRAL DISTRICT (LOCATION VARIES) trails and preserve existing ones. October 10, 2020 / January 9, 2021 / April 17, 2021 • Distribute information to vehicle-oriented recreationalists. SOUTH DISTRICT** • Promote statewide activities and four wheel drive events for the enjoyment October 10, 2020 of members. January 30, 2021 / April 17, 2021

Board and district meetings are held each quarter and are open to all members. More info at cal4wheel.com/calendar CAL4WHEEL CONTACTS *Unless otherwise noted, meetings are held at the C4WDA Office at 8120 36th Ave., Sacramento, CA. **Unless otherwise noted, meetings are held at Bass Pro STATE OFFICERS SECRETARY SECRETARY Shop in Rancho Cucamonga. Trevor Gillihan Bonnie Ferguson PRESIDENT 559-593-3678 661-943-9744 Jack Chapman [email protected] [email protected] 209-304-0510 (c) 209-274-4508 (h) [email protected] NORTH DISTRICT NATURAL RESOURCE LIKE US ON FACEBOOK PAST PRESIDENT OFFICERS CONSULTANT Steve Egbert Jeff Blewett • Cal4wheel • SierraTrek 559-685-1928 VICE PRESIDENT 209-210-7880 Cal4Wheelnorth OperationDesertFun Glenn Reynolds • • 559-936-3030 (cell) [email protected] [email protected] 916-834-7547 • Cal4Wheelcentral • winajeep [email protected] • Cal4wheelsouth • WinterFunFestival TREASURER Russ Chung MEMBERSHIP MARKETING & [email protected] CHAIRMAN PROMOTIONS Ron DeLaney RECORDING SECRETARY 209-304-3491 COORDINATOR Sherry Stortroen [email protected] John McCready CAL4 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS 209-602-4788 (cell) 916-794-5979 [email protected] SECRETARY [email protected] Kitten Chapman All vehicles must be maintained to conform to highway 209-274-4508 (h) safety standards, as well as meet the minimum CENTRAL DISTRICT 209-662-2308 (c) requirements listed below: [email protected] IN GEAR EDITOR/ OFFICERS WEB PAGE COORDINATOR 1. Roll bar or full cage or fac- 7. Fire extinguisher with gauge VICE PRESIDENT SOUTH DISTRICT tory installed hard top. indicating good/full, appro- Mike McGarity OFFICERS Suzy Johnson 2. Emergency brake, parking priately stored. 559-352-9780 4551 S. Paseo Don Rolando brake, line-lock or other 8. Seat belts for all passengers. [email protected] Tucson, AZ 85746 VICE PRESIDENT redundant braking system. 9. Antennas must be rigid or 805-550-2804 Josh Epstein 3. Tow strap or rope (recom- MEMBERSHIP 951-675-0203 Fax 866-888-2465 restrained in a manner to mend rated at 2 times the CHAIRMAN [email protected] [email protected] prevent injuries. **VACANT** vehicle weight). 10. Adequate attachment Special election July 2020 MEMBERSHIP 4. First aid kit. points front and rear, i.e., CHAIRMAN 5. Jack capable of lifting the tow hooks, receiver, etc. Tow Don Rybarczyk vehicle and a tool capable balls are not generally rec- 909-851-0806 of removing lug nuts. ommended. [email protected] 6. Spare tire within 3” diameter 11. Battery hold downs (no of other tires, or, for tires 37” bungie cords). or larger, run-flats or tools to BOARD MEMBERS: [email protected] repair/reinflate tire. RECOMMENDED: Oil/fluid spill kit MEMBERSHIP CHAIRS: [email protected] DISTRICTS: [email protected] / [email protected] / [email protected] SAFETY CHAIRS: [email protected] MOVING? Send your change of address to C4WDA, Inc., 8120 MAIN OFFICE 36th Ave., Sacramento, CA 95824-2304 or change Bonnie Steele, Office Manager it online at cal4wheel.org/MyAccount 8120 36th Ave., Sacramento, CA 95824-2304 Be sure to include your membership number if it is (916) 381-8300 [email protected] available. 4 IN GEAR August / September 2020 MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION

I pledge to support the goals and objectives of the CALIFORNIA FOUR WHEEL DRIVE ASSOCIATION, INC., in the protection, respect and the enjoyment of our public domain lands and towards the betterment of off-highway vehicle recreation. I am enclosing: $50.00 for my yearly Individual Membership dues. $750.00 for my Life Membership dues. ($10.00 of your association dues is for a one-year subscription to In Gear.) Ownership of a four-wheel drive vehicle is not a requirement Please make check payable to: for membership. California Four Wheel Drive Association Note: The Federal Tax Reform Act requires that we advise members that contributions or gifts to C4WDA are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes.

NAME______TYPE OF 4X4 VEHICLE______

TELEPHONE NUMBER ( )______YEAR______

ADDRESS______MARRIED? o YES o NO

CITY______STATE______ZIP______SPOUSE’S/CO-MEMBER NAME*

EMAIL______*Must be legally married to share life membership. Please send information on how I may become a member of the CALIFORNIA FOUR WHEEL DRIVE ASSOCIATION, INC. by: Communication Preferences o Becoming an Associate Member (business firm) o Subscribe to email updates o Becoming a Life Member through your installment plan. o Subscribe to email access alerts o Joining an established Club o Do not release my information o Forming a new four-wheel drive club

Signed______Date______

Referred by______

Return to: California Four Wheel Drive Association, Inc. OFFICE USE ONLY 8120 36th Ave., Sacramento, CA 95824-2304 Amt. Received______Ck#______NM List____ NM Mailing______Computer____ 916-381-8300 / 1-800-4x4-FUNN JOIN ONLINE AT CAL4WHEEL.ORG/JOIN-CAL4WHEEL

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Cal4Wheel Support the Ladies' V-Neck Koozies $3 association with red T-Shirts $16 white & blue $15 A hat like this should sell for $20!

Earrings Metal Camp Mug Camp Cutting FRONT BACK Cal4Wheel 17 oz. $20 50th Anniversary T-Shirts $17 $10 TrashARoo $60 Board $5 ORDER ONLINE AT CAL4WHEEL.ORG/STORE

cal4wheel.com 5 ince March, when the government started Sshutting down everything that had to do with being social, getting out and enjoy the outdoors, or simply gathering with a group of friends, the way life used to be for us all has faced hardships. The Cal4Wheel event committee chairs con- tinued to work diligently making arrangements so their events would be ready to go as the events neared. However, just prior to solidifying all their plans they realized they would be unable to move forward due to the stringent restrictions because of COVID-19. Having to cancel an event, knowing there were many who were anxious to get out and enjoy not only the runs, but the camaraderie at the end of the day, was a difficult task they had to face. We all know very well what it’s like to be looking forward to socializing, gathering with friends and family while enjoying the outdoors, JACK CHAPMAN and traveling the countryside in our favorite rigs. PRESIDENT On a positive note, the pandemic has allowed some fellow wheelers the time to clean and repair their toys in preparation for the next event, only to be informed it too had been cancelled. I PRESIDENT’S know how it feels when you’ve done all your rig to do’s only to be left with nowhere to go. I have to admit, upon seeing and hearing some association events being cancelled, I about REport fell over. I was left with the disappointment of knowing I would not be able to volunteer my help, which is what I usually do, nor would I be able to be a participant. I also volunteer at events for other organizations, and of course just like Cal4Wheel, they too were cancelled. COVID-19 and all the strict regulations we have had to abide by have made it nearly impossible to adhere to. At one point when California reached “Stage 3” we began having hopes of reaching “Stage 4” and began looking forward to return- ing to the “normal” life we had pre-pandemic. Even though the committees were working on detailed plans to adhere to the social distancing, the event chair and committee slowly watched events throughout the state cancel. We also strongly felt it would be unethical of the associa- tion to move forward knowing we may possibly put someone in jeopardy of contracting the Coronavirus, therefore it was felt best to cancel the events.

6 IN GEAR August / September 2020 With so many things going on in the state at this time along with the ever-changing requirements, we will continue to stay on top of land use issues though our natural resources consultant as well as our lobbyist in an effort to keep our members informed.

Cal4Wheel continues to work on obtaining insurance to Unfortunately, all our last district meetings had to be cover side-by-sides and green sticker vehicles at our state cancelled due to the possible spreading of the Coronavirus. events. Our goal is to include all our state clubs’ events On June 6 and 7 we held our fourth quarterly board meeting under this coverage as well. I will tell you I don’t envy any- while abiding by the state guidelines that were imple- one that has to filter through all that paperwork to make mented at that time. It will be interesting to see what the sure, as an association, we are covered. Finding a company regulations and requirements will be at the time of all our that is willing to cover such a new sport has been a chal- next district meetings and the BOD meeting. I truly hope lenge, but Cal4Wheel will continue to work on this. the next set of meetings will allow us to physically attend. In early June we received three position resignations: As an association, perhaps in the future, we can begin dis- the Central District membership chair, the Win-A-Jeep cussing a better system in which we would have the ability chair, as well as one Win-A-Jeep committee member. An to hold virtual meetings with the members being allowed to email notification was sent to all members the first part of attend as well. July regarding these positions. My hope is that by the time In the last couple months, I have become more famil- you read this we will have received communication from iar with using multiple platforms of video conferencing. members interested in volunteering. If you are interested in Between Cal4Wheel and my regular job I have attended volunteering for any of these positions please contact me conference meetings on almost a daily basis. I have directly at [email protected]. For now, the existing com- attended a CCC meeting for Oceano Dunes, and NOHVCC mittee continues to work to promote the Jeep and plan (National Off-Highway Vehicle Conservation Council) for any events or venues the Jeep can be taken to. Until regarding the Post Wildfire OHV Recovery Alliance. I have the chair position is filled, I will continue overseeing the been on webinars to educate myself on how to write letters program. in response to beach and trail closures, as well as how to JEP Autoworks is working on installing the parts as he submit them. I believe it is important to do our part but to receives them on the Win-A-Jeep. So far, we have received do it in a professional manner. It is also important to have donation items from MetalCloak, Rock Hard 4x4, and BF our voice heard regarding the many topics concerning the Goodrich. There is still more to come but COVID has truly slowed so many businesses that some are running on OHV community. I must say, I have learned a lot and spoke skeleton crews so parts are not shipping at their normal to, or met, some great people along the way. I am by no capacity. I’m looking forward to another well-built Jeep, and means an expert, but I am learning what it will take to help ready for the winner to take on many adventurous trails and in the fight to keep access of our trails open for our future possibly a few they never traveled. generations. In doing so, I recently sat with our California I would like to put out a personal thank you to our spon- state lobbyist Terry McHale and discussed many things sors for donating all the items as usual, especially with all regarding the OHV issues. This meeting was very informa- that is currently happening with COVID and the hardships tive, and he and I will be keeping in touch regularly. it is causing our businesses throughout the nation. A lot of With so many things going on in the state at this time shops have been forced to slow down their production, and along with the ever-changing requirements, we will con- yet these sponsors continue to support the Win-A-Jeep tinue to stay on top of land use issues though our natural program. Without their generosity this program would not resources consultant as well as our lobbyist in an effort to be possible. keep our members informed.

cal4wheel.com 7 am writing this on July the third, with I time to reflect on the past few months. For Cal4, like every other nonprofit and all the businesses in the country, it is a trying time to hold onto what you hope the future will bring. This vision cannot be put on hold. With the limited resources Cal4 will have this year, Cal4 will stay in the fight for our mem- bers rights to use public lands. There are still land use issues whether we have income or not. Oceano Dunes is still being threatened and targeted for closure by the California Coastal Commission. Trails still need to be maintained, plus many more issues. As you know, Cal4 has shut down two events, Sierra Trek and Hi Desert Round-Up. The board will need to go back to the budget and work it over to reflect the loss of income and probably the loss of other events if the state closures continue through the rest of the year. It is hard to predict what will hap- pen in the next few months. I just received an e-mail from the Trail GLENN REYNOLDS Busters of King County with a challenge for NORTH DISTRICT VICE PRESIDENT all clubs to donate to Cal4. The Trail Busters have donated $500. Thank you, Trail Busters, for your donation. There is an opportunity for the off-high- way community to have a voice, and that is in the upcoming election. Everyone has heard it before —if you do not vote you have no voice. No one can predict how an elec- tion will turn out until every vote is counted. That is why if you have not registered to VICE PRESIDENTS’ vote, please get it done. If you are registered, remember, no matter what you hear, your vote is important and your voice needs to be heard. Every vote for or against a cause that you think is important could win that deci- sion. When you look around the country, how reports can you not be a voice for yourself and your values? Please get out and vote! Sierra Trek is a big loss to the associa- tion. Thanks to Jeff Dax and John Allen for their efforts. It is a hard thing to see all your work go out the window and nothing you can do about it. With new hope for the 2021 event, this was just a dry run and hope that 2021 well be bigger than ever. Can we get back to the 1,200 participants? Yes, that is a challenge! The North District’s next event is Winter Fun Festival. Think snow! Yes, let’s all think snow in July so we can have another great Winter Fun Festival. It’s just around the corner. Stay safe, these are trying times.

8 IN GEAR August / September 2020 ope everyone is safe and healthy. HThis has been a year to remember. We’re over halfway through it and it’s just crazy to see how Covid-19 has changed everything. Or has it? I’m going to talk about some things that you may not be expecting. Instead of focusing on everything we cannot do as an association, I’m going to talk about everything we can do as an association. This association is more than holding events. At least it should be right? In our SOP’s “Standard Operating Procedures” it begins with the following: Public Land Use. In unity there is strength. The California Four Wheel Drive Association, Inc. is dedicated to upholding the rights of the citizen and the continued right to use public lands. Public lands belong to the citizen: TO RESPECT…..TO PROTECT…..AND TO ENJOY. The purpose of Cal4Wheel through a unit- ed effort. This IS NOT solely the responsibility of our Natural Resource Consultant: MIKE MCGARITY Promote a more responsible attitude CENTRAL DISTRICT VICE PRESIDENT towards the vehicular use of public lands. 2. Prevent legislation that would impose undue restrictions on off-highway vehicle use. 3. Institute programs of conservation, education, and safety. 4. Encourage state, federal, and local land managing agencies to develop areas and trails for outdoor recreation. 5. Disseminate information of interest to vehicle-oriented recreationists. 6. Promote statewide activities for the enjoyment of our members. Since 1959, the Association has gained the recognition and respect of state and federal agencies by: 1. Promoting legislation beneficial to vehicle recreation. 2. Obtaining more realistic and workable regulations regarding vehicle use. 3. Detouring many unwarranted and unjustified land closures. 4. Representing not only vehicle rec- reationists, but all outdoor recreationists at public meetings and hearings regarding wilderness areas, county ordinances, vehicle control areas, and all matters pertaining to outdoor recreation. Steve Morris on the trail. Cal4Wheel’s number one purpose is not

„ CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

cal4wheel.com 9 ho in world would imagine that we Wwould be where we are right now in the current events of the entire world? I honestly thought that when we were discussing cancelling HDR and finally making that decision to do so that the world would get back to ‘normal’ by this point and we would be laughing about this. How wrong was I. As I type this, you will know that Sierra Trek has been canceled! I’m sure the chair/co-chair fought the same things Russ Chung and my entire team had to contend with discussing the cancellation of Hi-Desert Round-Up. Sadly, I know what they went through – I’m sure it was not an easy decision and was not taken lightly. With the governor’s current mindset and with the current political climate, add the Covid running around rampant still, there was just not enough time to plan for an event that ultimately we may not get permits for. Not that it matters, but I was planning to attend for the first time this year, so I’m pretty JOSH EPSTEIN bummed but I understand why — not that it SOUTH DISTRICT VICE PRESIDENT makes it any easier. To add to the despair, while writing this article, we are once again put at odds with restaurants, bars and other social places being closed in excess of three weeks which puts a huge financial burden on small busi- ness owners and consumers the like. My concern, as should be all of ours is what hap- pens next? Obviously, this whole situation is unprecedented, and no one really knows VICE PRESIDENTS’ one way or the other what may or may not happen but one thing is for sure, it’s been an interesting ride thus far. Speaking of financial burdens, with the cancellation of Sierra Trek and HDR, the reports association is facing a bad year financially. These events along with other potential can- cellations of our other events puts concern in the board members since these events, along with the Win A Jeep (not including membership), is how we raise money to do what we do. Being involved with the Win- A-Jeep project personally as the master builder this year, the Win-A-Jeep could help save this fiscal year so I’m asking for you to buy some tickets. Buy more than you might have purchased or would normally buy — or don’t. I mean, the less tickets all of you buy, makes a better chance for me to take it home. Not that I need another Jeep but man, „ CONTINUED ON PAGE 34 10 IN GEAR August / September 2020 e live in interesting times. When WI became treasurer in February, coronavirus was not a concern and the letters “BLM” were an acronym for a government agency. President Trump reassured the nation that “within a couple of days [the number of coronavirus infections] is going to be down to close to zero.” Today, everyone has been affected by the pandemic and when we see “#BLM” in a social media post or scrawled on a wall, we know that it does not refer to the Bureau of Land Management.

FY 2020-2021 BUDGET My first duty as treasurer was to prepare the budget for FY 2020-2021. The budget planning process begins in March of each year. Normally, the proposed budget is devel- oped by the budget committee in March, reviewed by the delegates at district meet- ings in April and submitted to the board for approval at the board meeting in May or June. This year, the timing of the FY 2020- RUSS CHUNG 2021 budget planning process coincided STATE TREASURER with the growth of the coronavirus pandemic and the implementation of stay-at-home orders. The budget committee held several web meetings to discuss the proposed bud- get, but the district meetings were cancelled. At the start of the budget planning pro- cess, Jack and I discussed three budget scenarios: 1) A growth budget wherein we set ambitious goals for increasing member- ship and revenue, 2) a modest budget based STATE TREASURER’S on historic averages and a small increase in membership and revenue, and 3) an austere budget in which we cut costs in anticipation of a weak economy. Despite the uncertainty caused by the coronavirus pandemic, we felt report that any disruption would be temporary and “life would return to normal” in short order. Although we could not hold events such as the Molina Ghost Run and Hi Desert Round- Up as originally scheduled, we thought that we could reschedule them for later in the year. The result would be a delay but not a loss of income from those events. Therefore, based on the information that we had at the time, the board adopted a budget based on historic averages and a small increase in membership and revenue. The approved budget is based on an increase in member- ship from about 3,500 members to 3,700 members, and little or no change in revenue „ CONTINUED ON PAGE 22 cal4wheel.com 11 NATURAL resource consultant report

JEFF BLEWETT NATURAL RESOURCE CONSULTANT

Oceano Dunes SVRA With the SVRA now closed due to the recent Covid-19 restrictions, the surrounding local economy has been devastated. The tourism that brings revenue into the com- State Parks needs munity has come to a halt. Nearly all of the retail stores, restaurants, hotels, rental companies, and other small businesses in the area are just struggling to stay afloat. to stand up to The continued attacks on OHV recreation by the California Coastal Commission (CCC), Air Pollution Control District (APCD) and the Scientific Advisory Group (SAG) have the APCD and the really hurt local low- and middle-income families and small family owned businesses in the area. But sadly, many of these businesses will not survive the Covid-19 restrictions. California Coastal This paints the perfect picture of what the local economic impact to the surround- ing communities would look like with closure of Oceano Dunes SVRA. Commission. The The Oceano Dunes SVRA provides a major economic benefit to the local businesses and residents and the dunes also offer a unique recreational experience that provides park was bought access to coastal recreation for millions of Californians. The Oceano Dunes SVRA itself generates more than $200 million dollars a year in and paid for with economic activity from outside visitors. It is a major contributor to the SLO County’s Green Sticker tourism industry that has already been hit hard by the Covid-19 lock down Since the Oceano Dunes is now closed due to Covid-19 restrictions, there has been Trust Fund money zero OHV activity or vehicle access to the dunes for months. But the dust emissions are much worse now. for the protection For example, at the CDF site in May 2019, there were six exceedances, but this year, as of May 22, the exceedances have doubled to 12. At the Nipomo-Guadalupe Road and preservation site in May 2019, there were only three exceedances, but as of May 22, exceedances have nearly quadrupled to 11. of OHV recreation The state has spent approximately $14 million in taxpayer revenue in the last ten years to reduce dust concentrations on the mesa. The state covered more than 150 at the Oceano acres of dune sand with vegetation or orange plastic fencing. Additional dune-covering projects are anticipated in the coming months and years, under the theory that the Dunes SVRA. obstructions would help reduce dust produced by the blowing sand. In January, State Parks Director Lisa Mangat shut down approximately half of the

12 IN GEAR August / September 2020 camping area and about 5 percent of the riding area at the San Luis Obispo County Grand Jury finds Oceano Oceano Dunes, or approximately 50 acres near the shore- line. The area was popular with campers and provided 50 Dunes safe The San Luis Obispo County Grand Jury released a new percent of the park’s camping availability. report on safety at the Oceano Dunes SVRA. The newly The Scientific Advisory Group (SAG) is the group respon- released report by the Grand Jury finds that the Oceano sible for much of the revegetation and wind fencing Dunes are safe for ATV/UTV riders. projects and the continued loss of acreage for OHV recre- The Grand Jury investigation was prompted by local ation. Here is the statement that the SAG released on the groups and individuals who want to close down the dunes dust emissions at the SVRA: to OHV recreation. Those same groups have challenged that “It is the opinion of the SAG that the accumulated the dunes are unsafe and too many children are injured impact of OHV off highway vehicle] activity remains a while recreating at the SVRA. significant contributor to observed PM [dust] emissions at Unfortunately, last year six people died in ATV/UTV ODSVRA, even during this period in which the ODSVRA is accidents at the Oceano Dunes SVRA. Each accident was temporarily closed to recreational uses,” according to the investigated and only one of the six accidents had alcohol memorandum. “The SAG acknowledges that the Oceano as a factor. The report shows most accidents were due to Dunes are a naturally dusty surface that would experience inexperience, speed, or not paying attention. PM emissions even in the absence of human activity, espe- The Grand Jury recommended that the county actively promote public safety at the dunes, encouraging riders to cially during this spring windy season. But the SAG is also be educated to the surroundings and vehicle, be attentive clearly aware that decades of OHV activity have fundamen- and be mindful of speed. tally altered the natural beach-dune landscape, making the dunes significantly more susceptible to PM emissions than they would be in a natural state.” Snowy Plover lawsuit Not surprisingly the SAG continues to blame OHV for all Since the park was closed to vehicles earlier this year due to the Covid-19 pandemic, snowy plovers and terns the dust emissions at the SVRA, they continue to reduce have expanded their habitat into areas previously used by the areas of the park in which we recreate in with more off-roaders and now the Center for Biological Diversity has wind fences and revegetation projects. threatened to sue State Parks if they interfere with the State Parks needs to stand up to the APCD and the nesting of this endangered species. California Coastal Commission. The park was bought and The center took its complaint to the Coastal paid for with Green Sticker Trust Fund money for the pro- Commission and they formally ordered State Parks to halt tection and preservation of OHV recreation at the Oceano its activities disrupting snowy plover nesting areas. The CCC Dunes SVRA. plans to meet with State Parks prior to the Oceano Dunes Oceano Dunes SVRA should be managed as a State reopening to vehicles, and they urged the agency to map Vehicular Recreation Area, not a bird sanctuary or a but- out plover nesting areas and develop plans to ensure the terfly grove. It should be managed as a park designated for birds are protected when vehicles and camping return to OHV recreation. the dunes. The SVRA right now has four big issues going on, each Those options could include fencing off new areas, mod- one could determine the future of OHV recreation at the ifying park use or adjusting the reopening schedule. They also urged the CCC to hold off on opening the park until Oceano Dunes SVRA: after the breeding session ends in September. • San Luis Obispo Air Pollution Control District (SLO Do you see the pattern here? Right now, the particulate APCD) - They monitor PM10/ dust issues at the matter plan seems to be faltering, so we shift to the next SVRA. issue. Grand Jury on safety (that doesn’t work), and now we are back to issues with endangered species. They do not • State Parks Public Works Plan - General Operating care what issue they use. Just so the dunes never reopen. plan for SVRA, including future projects. • State Parks Habitat Preservation Plan - Endangered Sierra National Forest Species Conservation plan within the SVRA. Motorized Recreation Project • California Coastal Commission Meetings - The Sierra NF is initiating a 30-day public comment Combination of all the above topics. period for the Motorized Recreation Project Environmental Assessment. The project identifies roads, trails, and areas „ CONTINUED ON PAGE 24 cal4wheel.com 13 COMING UP for more information on our events visit cal4wheel.com/events

HIGH SIERRA POKER RUNSierra Winter Trek Fun PRICE INCLUDES September 4-7, 2020 Festival Your choice of runs, one  Swamp Lake Trail, near Shaver Lake, CA meal for Saturday night,  Info: https://cal4wheel.com/high-sierra-poker-run dash plaque, one raffle Sierra Winter Trek ticket, camping.  Registration: https://cal4wheel.org/high-sierra-regFun Festival HIGH SIERRA $ Cost: $50/$60 per vehicle POKER RUN 32ND ANNUAL September 4-7, 2020 High Sierra Poker now offers six runs spanning two days. New for 2020 is the Mirror Lake trail, which is short but difficult.

There are other run choices for all drivers and vehicles. High Sierra Paul Brady Molina Clovis Poker Run Camping is included, along with a great dinner and raffle. The Ghost [email protected] Forest Service limits the number of participants, so be sure to Run 559-994-0719 register ahead of time.

Panamint High Sierra Valley Molina Clovis Poker Run Trona Days Ghost Run OPERATION DESERT FUN Panamint Valley October 16-17, 2020 Trona Days PRICE INCLUDES Hi Desert Round-Up Your choice of runs, games,  Blu-In RV Park, Borrego Springs, CA dash plaque, one raffle  Info: https://cal4wheel.com/operation-desert-fun ticket, camping.  Registration: https://cal4wheel.org/odf-reg Hi Desert Round-Up $ Cost: $25 (prior to August 31)/$45 per vehicle Operation Desert Fun OCTOBER 16-17, 2020 Operation Desert Fun is a fund raiser not only for Cal4Wheel, but also the Paralyzed Veterans of America Cal-Diego Chapter. Angela Cook The event features your choice of runs for all skill levels, base Operation [email protected] camp at the Blu-In RV Park (including a pool!), games on Desert Fun Saturday, an available dinner, a great raffle and more! Register early to enjoy the $25 per vehicle registration.

Sierra Winter Trek Fun Festival PANAMINT VALLEY DAYS ME VE N T ANNAL November 13-15, 2020 PRICE INCLUDES Your choice of runs, dash  Panamint Valley, near Trona, CA PANAMINT plaque, one raffle ticket,  Info: https://cal4wheel.com/panamint-valley-days V camping. A YS LLE Y DA  Registration: https://cal4wheel.org/pvd-reg $ Cost: $55/$80 per vehicle High Sierra Molina Clovis Poker Run Ghost Run Bonnie Ferguson There will be a good variety of runs to choose from ranging [email protected] from scenic/historic to hardcore four-wheeling and everything Panamint in between. There will be a run board listing all the runs and Valley their descriptions in base camp. You make the decision as to Trona Days which run to go on. The cost is $55 per vehicle for members, $80 for non-members. Don’t miss this beautiful part of the desert and its famous Navy jet flyovers!

Hi Desert Round-Up 14 IN GEAR August / September 2020

Operation Desert Fun ME VE N T ANNAL November 13-15, 2020 Panamint Valley 35th Annual PANAMINT Near Trona, CA V AL YS REGISTRATION FORM LE Y DA (Please Print)

Driver’s Name______Phone (______) ______Address______City______St_____ Zip ______Vehicle Type______Vehicle License # ______Membership Category: Individual o Club o Associate/Business o C4WDA # ______Name of Club ______Email ______All registrants receive: 1 dash plaque, 1 raffle ticket, choice of runs on Friday & Saturday and camping Thursday through Sunday. REGISTRATION: SELECT ONLY ONE! (ON-SITE REGISTRATION IS $65.00 PER VEHICLE, NON-MEMBERS $85.00)

C4WDA Member (Per vehicle) $ 55.00 $ ______State Association (Other than C4WDA per vehicle) $ 55.00 $ ______Weekend membership* (Per vehicle) $ 80.00 $ ______* $20.00 can be used toward new Cal4Wheel membership fees this weekend only. C4WDA Membership + Registration o New o Renewal $105.00 $ ______Add-On Escape from Death Valley Run (see website for details) $ 50.00 $ ______Extra Dash Plaques $ 4.00 # ______$ ______BLM Camping Fee (optional) $ 5.00 $ ______

REGISTER ONLINE AT cal4wheel.org/pvd-reg

All apparel should be purchased in advance; there will be a limited quantity available on-site. Sizes available S, M, L, XL, XXL & XXXL. Shirt sizes XXL add $2, XXXL add $3. All T-shirts & sweatshirts will be $2.00 extra on-site. ALL T-SHIRT ORDERS MUST BE RECEIVED NO LATER THAN OCTOBER 10, 2020 T-shirts: Size(s) ______# ______@ $18.00 each $ ______Long-sleeve T-Shirt: Size(s) ______# ______@ $20.00 each $ ______Sweatshirts: Size(s) ______# ______@ $25.00 each $ ______Hooded Sweatshirts: Size(s) ______# ______@ $30.00 each $ ______Zippered Hoodies: Size(s) ______# ______@ $35.00 each $ ______Kids’ T-shirts: (Pre-Reg only) Size(s) ______# ______@ $10.00 each $ ______Youth sizes S, M & L

TOTAL AMOUNT DUE (tax included) TOTAL $ ______

Make all checks payable to “c4wda” and mail to: California Four Wheel Drive Association, 8120 36th Ave., Sacramento, CA 95824 T-Shirt orders must be received no later than October 10 / Pre-registration closes october 25!!! For further information contact Bonnie Ferguson, 661-943-9744, [email protected] confirmation will be sent by mail. Please ensure that mailing address is legible. All vehicles will be required to adhere to all c4wda safety requirements. Vehicles not meeting the safety requirements will be turned away with no refunds. All refunds are subject to a 10% processing fee. No refunds after the event date.

cal4wheel.com 15 route you can run, the highest point is 9,033 feet. Please HIGH SIERRA note this run requires locking differentials in the front and rear of your vehicle. POKER RUN Saturday evening join us for dinner, raffles and fun 32ND ANNUAL games. Sunday ALBERT SMITH Swamp Lake, contrary to what its name implies, this scenic 15-mile trail includes panoramic views of the sur- The 32nd annual High Sierra Poker Run now includes six rounding lakes, meadows and peaks could take most of runs, with the addition of Mirror Lake for 2020. The runs are the day, and worth every minute. Logging road deteriorates rated as easy-going, challenging to extreme. into a challenging four-wheel drive road that climbs to over The Sierra National Forest has a wide range of elevation, 9,000 feet. Large, challenging boulders and steep climbs. from 900 feet to 13,986 feet. The terrain includes rolling, Muddy in places. This challenging trail is for experienced oak-covered foothills, heavily forested middle elevation drivers. Please note that this run requires locking differentials slopes and the starkly beautiful alpine landscape of the in the front and the rear of your vehicle. High Sierra. Bald Mountain is an easy-going trek that bypasses the Something for everyone — you will not be disappointed. extreme areas found in the Saturday run. Perfect if you have a new rig, are a new driver, or you just want to try off- roading for the first time. The Bald Mountain Lookout offers SATURDAY breathtaking views of Shaver Lake and the Central Valley. Brewer Lake Trail is a 3.1-mile long route, the highest Along with Hollywood Hill, Vee Rock, and Shale Hill. point 8,973 feet. This trail offers several activity options: Coyote Lake is four-mile challenging trail, the highest for easy going, stop short of the lake or proceed the last ¾ point 9,220 feet, for the seasoned 4-wheel drive enthusiast. mile to the lake for the challenge of larger obstacles. Lunch A series of challenging boulder fields, very narrow in places. provided at the lake. One section, immediately after Red Lake, is borderline Bald Mountain Extreme includes the experience of extreme with giant tree roots mixed with boulders. Located Moonlight Madness during the day. Bald Mountain Trail near Big Creek this run features beautiful wildflowers, rock is a 6.2-mile moderately trafficked out and back trail the obstacles, and dense forest trail runs from Red Lake to highest point is 7,859 feet. Route consists mostly of solid Coyote Lake ending with lakeside relaxation. Please note granite and sand. This trail features beautiful wildflowers that this run requires at least one locking differential in the and offers several activity options and bypasses to avoid vehicle. hard spots. Please note this run requires at least one locking Join us Labor Day weekend for a four-wheel drive experi- differential in the vehicle. ence like no other, while enjoying the scenic beauty of the Mirror Lake (NEW for 2020) This high mountain lake high sierra mountains. trail adds extra fear factor with its steep, rocky, off camber winch hill where winch posts have been drilled and set in Information and research for this article was obtained from usda.gov, the rocks at two locations. Mirror Lake Trail is a hardcore alltrails.com, and funtreks.com. rock crawling 4x4 trail. Enjoy lakeside relaxation in the high mountains of the Sierra National Forest after completing Albert Smith is a Kingsburg 4-Wheel Drive Club member and one of the most challenging and rewarding seven-mile co-chair for the High Sierra Poker Run.

16 IN GEAR August / September 2020 LABOR DAY WEEKEND September HIGH SIERRA BALD 4-7 POKER RUN MOUNTAIN Hosted by the 32ND ANNUAL BREWER LAKE Central District SWAMP LAKE

High Sierra Poker Run COYOTE LAKE under special use permit granted by MIRROR LAKE U.S. Forest Service High Sierra Ranger District Traction aiding differentials in front and rear will be required Oversized vehicles not recommended on for Swamp Lake and Mirror Lake Trails. Traction aiding differentials in either front or rear will be required for Bald Swamp, Mirror or Coyote Lake Trails Extreme and Coyote Lake Trails.

REGISTER ONLINE AT REGISTRATION FORM cal4wheel.org Saturday Bald Mountain Extreme Run [___] Saturday Brewer Lake Trail [___] Name ______Includes lunch at lake: Hot dogs, chips, soda/water, cookie Phone ______Saturday Mirror Lake Trail [___] Sunday Bald Mountain Run [___] Email ______Sunday Swamp Lake Trail Run [___] Address ______Sunday Coyote Lake Run [___] City, State, Zip ______Registration Information Registration includes poker run, one dinner, one dash plaque, one raffle ticket C4WDA Member? o Yes o No C4WDA members $50/vehicle $ ______Club Name ______Non-member $60/vehicle $ ______COMPLETE AND MAIL BEFORE INFORMATION: Additional Run $20/vehicle $ ______AUGUST 26, 2020 TO: Paul Brady - [email protected] Cal4Wheel Steve Peckham - 559-647-7466 8120 36th Ave. OPTIONAL cal4wheel.com/high-sierra-poker-run Sacramento, CA 95824 T-shirt/Sweatshirt presale will be closed on August 16, 2020. Limited T-shirt/Sweatshirt sales will be available onsite. On site T-shirts $23, On site Sweatshirt $35. SAFETY REQUIREMENTS: • Tow rope or strap • 35” minimum tire size for Swamp T-shirt S__M__L__XL__2XL__3XL__ $20/each $ ______• Seatbelts for all passengers Lake Trail Men’s Tank Top S__M__L__XL__2XL__3XL__ $15/each $ ______• Fire extinguisher • All loose items including battery • Roll bar or hard top secured Hooded sweatshirts M__L__XL__2XL__3XL__ $30/each $ ______• Emergency brake, parking brake, • Antenna properly restrained line-lock or other redundant • Air pressure lowered to 15 psi C4WDA annual membership $50/family $ ______braking system. maximum before inspection Extra poker hands #___@ $ 5/each $ ______• Muffler (not open) • Tow hooks or attachment points • First aid kit • One locker required on Swamp Extra adult dinners #___@ $15/each $ ______• Jack capable of lifting vehicle Lake Trail and Bald Extreme • Spare tire within 3 inches diameter • Proof of registration Child’s Dinner (under 12 years) #___@ $ 8/each $ ______of other tires, or, for tires 37” or • All vehicles must pass safety larger, run-flats or tools to repair/ inspection prior to entering trail Contribution to Jack Edwards Legal Fund (voluntary) $ ______reinflate tire. • All deviations from run • Tires with reasonable tread life and requirements will be at the trail Total Fee Enclosed (payable to C4WDA/High Sierra) $ ______of off-road design leader’s discretion PHOTO BY PAUL BRADY the fight for oceano dunes JARED MACLEOD FRIENDS OF OCEANO DUNES

ver the past year, since the control of running our California OHV area at ODSVRA by more than 50%. By OJuly 2019 California Coastal Program and the SVRAs, we have seen the CCC pushing forward this emer- Commission meeting in San Luis nothing but poor management of gency closure ahead of schedule, Parks Obispo (SLO), we have seen many and a lack of OHV representation for failed to meet the requirements of the changes to Oceano Dunes State our SVRAs. For over three years, State Stipulated Order of Abatement and Vehicular Recreation Area (ODSVRA). Parks has yet to appoint a supervisor CEQA, to properly model and survey None of which have been good for to run the Oceano Dunes SVRA. The these closures. In other words, these the future of the ODSVRA or had any California Coastal Commission (CCC) areas should not have been closed, positive impact for OHV and beach is working around the clock, alongside yet State Parks continues to show no camping. the special interest funded bureau- backbone to stand up to the elites. For those who are not yet aware of crats and developers, to shut down Almost immediately following, just how big of a threat we are facing the ODSVRA. Meanwhile Parks has no Parks began implementing many to the livelihood and future of off-road one locally in charge of running and new projects to shut us down, all of recreation in California, it’s time to defending the Park against the CCC’s which being paid for using the OHV start paying very close attention to overreach of power to shut it down. Trust Fund. They began by spread- the events that are unfolding. It’s time The local ODSVRA people are working ing hay bales all over the 48 acres, for everyone to get involved and join hard, but the overbearing Sacramento then installing surveillance equip- us in this fight! elite are determined to shut it down. ment to monitor for rodent activity The recent “transformation” of At the December 2019 Air Pollution at the foredunes. Well, there were no State Parks, which is merging the OHV Control District (APCD) hearing in SLO, rodents, and guess where all the hay program and the larger State Parks the APCD ordered the closure of 48 has gone? Due to these closures not together, has thus far been a total acres of prime beach camping, which being properly modeled, the high tides failure. Look no further than what is would begin late December 2019. Just have been reaching well within the happening at Oceano Dunes. Look at prior to the sold-out Christmas and fence lines and pulling the hay into the the gross misuse of our OHV trust fund New Year’s holidays, the CCC issued ocean. Even better, the remaining hay dollars being wasted on ridiculous an early emergency closure of the 48 is being blown out of the closures and programs to shut down OHV, camp- acres “foredunes” area for “instrumen- going airborne towards the surround ing and public access to the park. tation” that was never installed. This Since the larger State Parks has taken closure reduced the available camping „ CONTINUED ON PAGE 31

18 IN GEAR August / September 2020 LETTER TO THE EDITOR MORE COMMENTARY ON THIS YEAR’S CONVENTION MIKE HARDY I am so happy to know hotel site to the RV and car and banquet room and car attendance was mostly that someone actually reads show area, but not from my show. because the South didn’t the articles in the In Gear!!! hotel. As for the price as you really push the car show I am really glad that Mr. Mr. Park I don’t know how know I paid quite a bit more or vendors because (there Park decided to be heard in old you are. But if you look for my not so well-located was no room for either!) the Letter to the Editor that around most of the mem- hotel that I had to drive the committee didn’t get appeared in the June/July bers are pushing 60+ years to and from the Veterans ‘er done... albeit no one In Gear. of age. Center and car show area. I think Mr. Park had Most of us can’t/won’t As for the conventions volunteered to help Mr. a better setup than I at walk any farther than we being in Visalia or some Cunningham. Southern con- Convention. He was in the have to. I base my opinion other centrally located area: ventions have been around Best Western where most of on easy access and minimal I still think with the right $140 or so for a room in the the Cal4Wheel Board were physical exertion to get people making the reserva- hosting hotel, which is less staying. And it may be only to and from the meeting tions for the convention site than I paid in Clovis. And under two blocks from your rooms, general assembly I would like to see “tradition” Southern California does carried on as it has for the have the best weather in last 60+ years!! California is February usually. Hence all well known for driving more the snowbirds!! than most other folks in I truly applaud Noel Park other states. for taking the time to be Can’t believe travel was the reason or the price of heard and cherish his input the room. on the convention subject. As for the poor atten- dance at Riverside Mike has been a Cal4Wheel convention. The poor member for 40+ years.

FUNDRAISING CHALLENGE!

The Trail Busters 4WDC Kings Co. is donating $500 to Cal4Wheel. They would like to challenge every club in Cal4 to match this donation. Donations can be made online by going to: https://cal4wheel.org/donate Save 20% with On behalf of the Cal4Wheel board, we would like to Promo Code CAL4 thank all the clubs and individuals who are donating at www.crawlmag.com to help us through the challenges we are facing. cal4wheel.com 19 MCGARITY REPORT

„ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9 the Central District and not interfere fact, they are growing faster than we with other people within their posi- are in same aspects. They are engaged running state events. Don’t get me tions. If anyone really knows me, they in the fight for Oceano Dunes. We wrong here and insinuate that I don’t would tell you that I am ADHD with must unite. We must work together believe they are not important. They a lot of energy and focus. I dig in and with other organizations. We are not. are definitely important. Don’t misun- when I commit to a position, a club, an We have board members who are derstand what I’m saying here. What organization I will do my best to work afraid of change. They are afraid of I’m saying is that Cal4Wheel is the hard for the purpose of what the goals collaboration. They get hung up on the Powerhouse in California for protecting and objectives are. I’ve been told to past. The past has a stranglehold on land use! At least we used to be at one follow our SOP’s. Well... that is what them! time. Read the bullets. We “through a I’m seriously trying to do. I’m in no way Here is my encouragement to united effort” promote, prevent, insti- perfect. I’ve messed up and made my you. You are very important to this tute, encourage, develop, disseminate mistakes. Others have tried to exploit association. You are a member! The information… then promote statewide my mistakes with a smear campaign membership owns this association. activities for the enjoyment of our against me so I would not be elected The board does not. The president members. We, the board, alongside as the president of this Association. does not. Bonnie in the office does the leadership of the president pro- This was going on the better part of not. The past presidents do not. I’m mote the efforts of Cal4Wheel to fight 2019 when I gave 110% of everything sick and tired of this association not against the closures of public land. This I had to get Cal4Wheel back in front remembering that the members own needs to be our number one purpose as the Powerhouse I now it should be! this association. I am nothing impor- and unfortunately in my opinion we This effort came with a huge amount tant; however, I too am a member. I have lost track of the target. We fight of sacrifice. For those who really know am a life member. I’m proud of this. and argue internally. We stay divided me, you know that I am honest and During Steve Egbert’s presidency he on the main issues at hand. We don’t transparent. I’ve been accused of attended every club meeting with promote the number one purpose of being too sensitive. I’m not going to the Clovis Independent 4 Wheelers. why Cal4Wheel was established. change the passion I have for working For over seven years, Steve shared his Steve Morris was a public land use hard for what I believe in. I believe in passion for Cal4Wheel with us. We fighter! He founded this association the vision Steve Morris had for this were honored to have him as our club based on his love for preserving OHV association. I live his same passion. I member. When he would talk and give for generations to come. He owned am on every call and meeting I can to us updates, he would always start with part of the Rubicon Springs. He and Protect OHV Access for everyone. Not how important we were. He would talk his wife fought to protect our right as just Cal4Wheel, but for EVERYONE. about members make the association OHV to access public land. This was Our purpose uses the word “UNITE”. and without members there would not the number purpose for Cal4Wheel. We Specifically it states, “The purpose of be an association. Then he would talk are here to unite the clubs statewide Cal4Wheel through a united effort.” about our natural resource consultants to fight for our right to Protect OHV What this means to me if that we and how Cal4Wheel was always fight- Access! In Steve’s legacy, nothing else are not supposed to do this alone. ing for our public lands. Steve instilled mattered. Steve’s love and passion for It does not say “solely” … it does not in me and our club the most important the Rubicon was second to no one. say “alone” … it does say UNITED. I’ve purpose of Cal4Wheel. Then he would His passion for wheelin’ the Rubicon been warned by past presidents of talk about the events. Trail was his driving force in advo- Cal4Wheel about collaborating with The events were never the reason cating for never giving up and never other like-minded organizations. I’ve that Cal4Wheel existed. It’s horrible STEPPING BACK! He always stepped mentioned this in the past. I, however, that we have had to cancel events up and fought for what he loved and am not afraid of other organizations due to Covid-19. It’s devastating to our cherished! and I continue to collaborate with budget. No doubt this year financially I was recently told by another them. I still believe we are stronger is going to be hard hit. So again, not Cal4Wheel board member to step together. They believe in Cal4Wheel. saying that events are not important. back. I’ve been told that I don’t have They believe we could still be the But, when we do hold these events, the responsibility to meddle in other POWERHOUSE! They are not threat- how do we do it? Steve would always operations of Cal4Wheel. I’ve been ened by us. They do not want to take talk about the volunteers. Through our told to stay in my lane as the VP of us over or steal our membership. In „ CONTINUED ON PAGE 21

20 IN GEAR August / September 2020 MCGARITY REPORT

„ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 20 sending their own personal comments. as going back as a member of my club Past presidents should be making and continuing to be a volunteer for members we have volunteers. All of you. comments. They come and critique the Sierra National Forest. I’m super You, our members are our volunteers. the board at every board meeting, happy with speaking out at meetings You are the reason that we have these where are they for this? They have an to protect our OHV access. I’m happy events. Not because of the board or important voice. They are revered as collaborating with other organiza- anyone else. It’s because of you. The being knowledgeable and an influential board and Bonnie have a lot of work voice. Please step up. Jeff has asked tions. I’m not afraid of change. Most managing the events, so don’t get the board member to speak up. We importantly, I have nothing to prove. me wrong, but it’s you who work your need you, clubs and board members I worked super hard last year for behinds off to make them happen. posting on social media. Show people Cal4Wheel. I know this association. Volunteers must be appreciated. You the efforts everyone is engaged in to I know its purpose. I know we need must be listened to and your opinions spread the word. One or two people to be doing better. I know we need must be implemented. You run the cannot do this alone. Thank you, people involved who are not here to events. You know what works and what Steve for all your years of dedication. prove something or need to be self- doesn’t work. You are the members of It’s unfortunate that we have board seeking for fame or popularity. I would the association. What did I say about members who have said mean things the members? You own this associa- to you. You have had to take a lot of encourage you to do this because of a tion, so you, the volunteers/members ugly shots. You truly love this asso- passion which drives you. It’s hard to have the say in how we run the events. ciation and when others attack you, explain, but you’ll know it if you have If board members won’t listen, then it’s not right. They continue to do so it. You just know. People who do this vote them out. Bring in board members without repercussions and I decided must be comfortable with answering who value and listen to you. to include this in my article because tough questions, making difficult deci- Steve Egbert always talked about it’s wrong. Members are asking ques- sions, be treated unkindly at times and Cal4Wheel and our continuous fight tions and they deserve answers. They be the target of people who are afraid for land use. Steve believed in the own this association and when things of change. This association must get UNITED approach. He was never afraid are happening that are rude, ugly and of collaboration. In fact, he networked not acceptable; then the members back to that POWERHOUSE we know with every organization. I would should be made aware. If you see or it should be. I’m working hard every encourage our current president to talk to Steve, please let him know how day to make that happen. I definitely do the same. We have so much we incredibly valuable he is now as our appreciate all of your support and kind could be doing right now, but we’re past president. He deserves the same words I hear every day from you mem- not. We’re about to lose Oceano Dunes reverence the other past presidents bers. You’re the reason that I’m here and Cal4Wheel must step up and received unconditionally. and the reason I’ve stayed. make a stand to protect our access. I’m covering a lot of about what I All the comments within my article When Friends of Oceano Dunes feel is important for you, as a member is my opinion. You may not agree needed financial help, we were always to know. I want you to know that you there. We must continue to unite and matter. You are important. I’ve covered with everything I’m saying and I don’t fight alongside the other organiza- the main purpose of why according expect you to. In fact, I hope you don’t tions. We have our natural resource to our SOP’s Cal4Wheel exists. Not my and that you start inquiring and asking consultant who works very hard on opinion. This purpose was established questions. Start with your own vice behalf of Cal4Wheel and we need our in 1959 and it’s as relevant now as president. Ask questions. If all you get president to do the same. I’m a mem- it ever was. When you, the members is name calling and no substantial ber and I want Cal4Wheel to be that call me and ask me questions, I truly feedback, then that should be telling POWERHOUSE in fighting for my public believe I’m here to represent you. I by itself. Ask point by point and as a land. We need multiple Cal4Wheel came up through membership to this member of this association you have representatives speaking up at these position. I believe I proved myself to meetings. Jeff has informed the board the members of the Central District. the right to do so. Thank you for caring that he will make comments on behalf The other district members don’t about this association. Together we of the association, but it doesn’t stop know what I’ve accomplished and can be on top again! Hope to see you each individual board member from that’s understandable. I’m truly happy soon on the trail. Take care.

cal4wheel.com 21 TREASURER’S REPORT

„ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11 detailed financial data is not published documents and applied for reinstate- in a public forum such as the In Gear. ment. The Franchise Tax Board stated or expense from our historical aver- I will present financial data at the dis- that it could take up to five months to ages. I presented the proposed budget trict meetings. For members who are process the reinstatement. and the board approved the budget unable to attend the district meetings, at its regularly scheduled meeting on I will conduct a secure web conference June 7. for members only in August. AUDIT COMMITTEE Recent developments in the coro- RECOMMENDATIONS navirus pandemic have caused us to In November 2019, the board of FRANCHISE TAX BOARD cancel Hi Desert Round-Up and Sierra directors appointed a special com- Trek. We do not know whether we will The State of California Franchise Tax Board suspended the associa- mittee to review selected Cal4Wheel be able to hold events such as High accounts. The special committee Sierra Poker Run, Operation Desert tion’s tax-exempt status on January 2, submitted their report at the February Fun, or Panamint Valley Days. I will 2019 due to missing state tax returns. 2020 Board meeting. I am pleased to discuss the impact of the pandemic at The association’s federal tax-exempt this summer’s district meetings and status is not affected. The asso- report that all the committee’s recom- propose budget revisions to the board ciation has submitted all necessary mendations have been implemented. at its August meeting.

CARES ACT PAYCHECK PROTECTION PROGRAM REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS To stimulate the economy during the coronavirus pandemic, the U.S. Government introduced the Paycheck Protection Program. This program OBJECTIVE: To find an NRC (Natural Resource Consultant) who will provided low-interest loans to small provide consulting services for Cal4Wheel regarding current issues involving businesses. These loans could be California lands available for OHV through research and analysis of pending forgiven if certain conditions were city, county, state, and government agency action, including but not limited met. The association applied for a to National Forests and BLM properties. The prospective NRC shall advise the Paycheck Protection Program loan on Association of OHV/land use issues and provide recommendations regarding April 2, 2020. The loan was approved where resources should be expended. The successful contractor must be on May 2, 2020. However, during the able to effectively communicate with government agencies and other OHV time between loan application and organizations to promote the Association’s land use positions. loan approval, the U.S. Treasury issued PROPOSAL SUBMISSION: Written proposals should be submitted to the new guidance on the eligibility and the attention of the President of CA4WDA at 8120 36th Avenue., Sacramento, CA certifications required for the loan. The 95824 board held a virtual meeting on May 7, QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS: Questions and requests for additional 2020 and decided not to accept the information should be submitted in writing to the President of the Association loan. at 8120 36th Ave., Sacramento, CA 95824 or by e-mail to jack@cal4wheel. com. This includes, but is not limited to, agreements on positions for land use CURRENT FINANCIAL POSITION issues. With the cancellation of several PROPOSALS SHOULD ADDRESS: events due to the coronavirus pan- • Qualifications to execute contract. demic, we expect to have an operating • Experience history, give examples of past accomplishments. deficit for the fiscal year ending June • Specify subjects usually covered in reports. 30. Our strong cash reserves and • Fees and payment schedule to execute contract. the ongoing revenue from annual • Specific services to be performed under the proposal, as a minimum membership renewals will allow us to address the points included in the request for proposal document (see continue normal operations for several link below). months, but we will need to find ways to replace the lost income if we can- not resume the events by this fall. It DOWNLOAD RFP: https://bit.ly/cal4nrcrfp is the policy of the association that 22 IN GEAR August / September 2020 DONATIONS

Thank you to the clubs and individuals who have donated so generously, and to those who have donated your event registrations!

Linda Waldheim Jack Edwards Legal Fund $2,500 Tim & Sharon Crawford Jack Edwards Legal Fund $25 Russ Chung Disaster Relief Fund $1,000 Matt Evangelista General Fund $25 Phil & Patty Bender General Fund $500 David L. & Lois Phelps Disaster Relief Fund $25 Duane & Lisa Olson General Fund $500 David L. & Lois Phelps Cal4Wheel Foundation $25 Maddie Moore General Fund $370 David & Jennifer Roach Jack Edwards Legal Fund $25 Jack & Kitten Chapman General Fund $364 AJ Smith & Melissa Clear Creek Legal Fund $25 Michael Craig & Ann Moore General Fund $235 AJ Smith & Melissa Disaster Relief Fund $25 Morgan Gerhart General Fund $230 Michael Chris & Suzanne Collard General Fund $225 Mick & Lori Sweeney Jack Edwards Legal Fund $25 Tock & Larisa Ockert Cal4Wheel Foundation Scholarship $200 David Yeh Clear Creek Legal Fund $25 Fund David Yeh Disaster Relief Fund $25 Todd & Larisa Ockert Cal4Wheel Foundation $200 James & Jill Cherne Jack Edwards Legal Fund $20 David Sherwin General Fund $195 Michael Cunningham General Fund $20 Lawrence & Connie General Fund $180 Holloway Rick & Judy Fisher General Fund $15 Wayne A. Schmid General Fund $175 Rick & Judy Fisher General Fund $15 David & Paula Anderson Disaster Relief Fund $100 Dan Bonetti Jack Edwards Legal Fund $10 Gary Coleman General Fund $100 Bob & Ann Cardona Jack Edwards Legal Fund $10 Chris Kibe Jack Edwards Legal Fund $100 Richard Connole Jack Edwards Legal Fund $10 Don & Lori Reeve Disaster Relief Fund $100 Karl Kreitner Cal4Wheel Foundation $10 Donald Spuhler Cal4Wheel Foundation Easter Basket $100 Karl Kreitner General Fund $10 Fund Tim May Jack Edwards Legal Fund $10 Rod & Adrienne Steinebel Jack Edwards Legal Fund $100 Christopher McClue General Fund $10 Ramsey & Trisha Wood General Fund $100 Francis “Chips” Mercier & General Fund $10 Ryan & Jessica Choate Cal4Wheel Foundation $99 Christa Oetjen Robin Down General Fund $90 Mike P. Roeder, Jr. Jack Edwards Legal Fund $10 Rhonda Solorzano Cal4Wheel Foundation $89 Rich & Debbie Zogaric Cal4Wheel Foundation Scholarship $10 Fund Robin Down Cal4Wheel Foundation Scholarship $50 Fund Chris Kibe Jack Edwards Legal Fund $5 Brian & Jennifer Geranen Jack Edwards Legal Fund $50 James & Ambria Myers Cal4Wheel Foundation $5 Dean L. & Brenda Jack Edwards Legal Fund $50 James & Ambria Myers General Fund $5 Harmon Ryan Ogawa & Linda Disaster Relief Fund $5 Wes & Lyn Hoffmaster General Fund $50 Huang Kim & Atsuko Kevan Jack Edwards Legal Fund $50 Ryan Ogawa & Linda Cal4Wheel Foundation $5 Huang Noel & Elizabeth Strang Jack Edwards Legal Fund $50 Ryan Ogawa & Linda General Fund $5 Robert & Diane Wakefield Jack Edwards Legal Fund $50 Huang Jerry & Lynn Austerman General Fund $25 Ryan Ogawa & Linda Jack Edwards Legal Fund $5 Tom & Maggie General Fund $25 Huang Bienkowski Ryan Ogawa & Linda Cal4Wheel Foundation Scholarship $5 Tim & Sharon Crawford General Fund $25 Huang Fund DONATE: https://cal4wheel.org/donate cal4wheel.com 23 NATURAL resource consultant

„ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13 developed recreation sites and des- purposes. ignated wilderness areas, igniting, Status- First hearing was canceled across the Sierra NF to be added to the building, maintaining, or using a fire on request of the author on April 30, Forest Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM). on national forests in California will be 2020. It includes 29 miles of trails and 12 prohibited. areas to be added to the National SB 1147- Carnegie State Vehicular Forest Trail System, of which 1.7 miles Fallon Naval Air Station are being changed from road/trail to Recreation Area mixed use. Expansion - Cancellation SB1147 was introduced by Senator The purpose of the project is The Navy for the past few years has Steve Glazer (D) on February 20, 2020. reevaluating trails that were removed been working to increase the footprint This bill would express the intent of from the MVUM and work to get them of the Fallon Range Training Complex. the Legislature to enact subsequent added back on to the MVUM. I was If they had been successful, this would legislation that would preserve the very disappointed in the Sierra NF pro- have increased the military-controlled Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation cess at the public meetings. Many of lands in the area to nearly 1,000 Area for conservation purposes.” our Cal4 clubs were present and gave square miles — quadrupling their area The previous legislation has all the Forest a lot of input on trails that of control to nearly 770,000 acres. been focused on the Alameda-Tesla should have been added back on to Naval Air Station Fallon is the US Expansion property, but now they the MVUM. Navy’s premier tactical aviation train- When the final plan was announced ing facility. Located 70 miles east of are going after Carnegie SVRA. This it seemed like very few trails were Reno, Nevada, the facility provides bill looks to remove all OHV from the actually proposed to be added back comprehensive integrated combat SVRA. on to the MVUM. They chose to ignore training to deploying carrier air wings. Status- NO movement- Referred to the clubs and all the input they gave. Native American groups, con- Committee on March 5, 2020. So here is your chance make com- servationists and OHV groups have ments on this project. strongly opposed the plan to close SB1024- Competition OHV Sticker Comments need to be received by nearly 770,000 acres in 5 rural coun- Program July 27 at midnight to be considered ties to public access. The Navy argued SB 1024 was introduced by Senator part of the 30-day public comment they needed the added land because Brian Jones (R- Santee). Currently, period. training in modern, high speed aircraft competition off-highway vehicles are • Subject: Sierra NF Motorized requires much more space. Recreation Project The Senate’s initial version of registered though the Red Sticker • Mail: 1600 Tollhouse Road, Clovis, the National Defense Authorization program within the California Air CA 93612 Act for 2020-2021 leaves out the Resources Board (CARB). This program • Email: comments- planned expansion of the airbase. The has allowed off-highway vehicles to [email protected] construction program this year will operate in the state for the past two focus on deferred maintenance and decades. The Red Sticker program USFS Region 5 Fire Restrictions upgrades to existing bases and sites. is set to end in 2021 with no plan to The USFS has imposed fire restric- replace it within CARB. Without a new tions on most of California forests program, off-highway vehicle competi- starting May 31. The restrictions pro- OHV Legislation to monitor tions and practice riding on public hibit using wood, or stove campfires lands will be put to an end in California outside developed recreation and wil- AB 2551- Carnegie SVRA- Alameda- at a great loss to local businesses, derness campsites. The restrictions are Tesla Expansion Area manufacturers, and a storied tradition part of a broader push by the National AB 2551 was introduced by of valued competition. SB 1024 moves Forest Service to minimize risks for Assembly Member Bauer-Kahan and the Red Sticker competition program manmade forest fires during Northern co-authored by Senator Glazer. into a responsible Competition Sticker California’s driest summer months. This bill would authorize the depart- This order serves to protect the ment to dispose of the portion of the program under California State Parks. health and safety of employees and Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Status- The Senate unanimously surrounding communities from the Area known as the “Alameda-Tesla passed SB1024 on June 24 and now potential of catastrophic wildfires. Expansion Area” to permanently goes to the Assembly Committee on As listed in the order, outside of preserve that land for conservation Transportation.

24 IN GEAR August / September 2020 REGISTER ONLINE AT HTTPS://CAL4WHEEL.ORG/MOLINA-REG

November 20-22

Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA) Upper Ranch 6 miles west of Hollister in San Benito County GHOST RUN Registration includes camping, More info: your choice of runs, one dinner, cal4wheel.com/molina-ghost-run

N O A VE VR M S S BE 2020 LL R 20 HI dash plaque and raffle ticket -22 HOLLISTER

Name ______RUNS: Phone (______) ______„ Group 1: Requires front Email ______and rear lockers and 35" tires. Hard trails and Address ______obstacles. City, State, Zip ______„ Group 2: Medium trails Cal4Wheel Member? Yes____ No____ Individual____ participants' capabilities. Club Name ______with options to fit „ Beginner/SUV Run: Complete and mail Tailored to participants' before November 13, 2020: Have questions? Help keep skill levels. Molina 2020 Mike McGarity public lands open! 8120 36th Ave. [email protected] Proceeds benefit Cal 4 Wheel Sacramento, CA 95824 SAFETY REQUIREMENTS 1. Roll bar or factory hard top 2. Functional parking brake or micro Registration includes Saturday poker run, camping, lock 3. Tow strap or winch Upper Ranch access Friday-Sunday, 4. First aid kit 5. Jack capable of lifting vehicle and one dinner, one dash plaque, one raffle ticket tools to change tire 6. Spare tire within 3" of existing tire (no temp spares) Cal4Wheel Members $50/Vehicle $ ______7. Fire extinguisher with gauge properly stored Non-Members $60/Vehicle $ ______8. Seatbelts for all vehicle occupants 9. Antenna(s) properly restrained -- OPTIONAL -- 10. Adequate attachment points front and rear Cal4Wheel membership ($50 per family) $ ______11. Battery hold downs, no bungie cords 12. Functioning low range in transfer Extra poker hands #_____ @ $5 each $ ______case 13. License or green sticker Extra adult dinners #_____ @ $15 each $ ______registration 14. Traction aiding differential in at Child dinners (under 12) #_____ @ $8 each $ ______least one axle for some runs Safety committee has final say over any Contribution to Clear Creek Legal Fund (voluntary) $5 $ ______questionable issues regarding vehicle inspection. T-Shirt M___ L___ XL___ XXL___ XXXL___ #____@ $15 each $ ______Hoodies L___ XL___ XXL___ XXXL___ #____@ $25 each $ ______

CHECKS PAYABLE TO C4WDA/MOLINA Total fee enclosed $ ______

REGISTER ONLINE AT HTTPS://CAL4WHEEL.ORG/MOLINA-REGcal4wheel.com 25 JUST A BEAR’S OPINION YOUR QUESTIONS ON LICENSE PLATES ANSWERED JON W.

s a police officer, I often get as a basis for a roadside argument Aasked lots of questions about with one of our men or women in blue. what is and what is not legal on Roadside arguments are not produc- our beloved Jeeps. The questions tive. An argument can only make the do not surprise me. As vehicle situation worse and could potentially enthusiasts, we love to modify our end poorly. Save your argument for 4x4’s. Unfortunately, sometimes the courtroom and DO NOT bring this our modifications don’t fall in line article as evidence. So, let’s get to it. with the current laws listed in the Below I have answered some ques- California Vehicle Code (CVC). In tions on license plates and included these articles, I’ll try to give you the most appropriate California my best understanding of the CVC Vehicle Code (CVC) sections. These and how it applies to our Jeeps my understanding and opinions. When sections are abridged. These are the and the modifications that we love an officer, state trooper or deputy has parts of the sections that are most to make. Hopefully, you will find stopped you on the roadside, their relevant to the modification and it entertaining, informative, and opinion is the only relevant opinion operation of 4x4’s. For the full CVC educational. You may even use the at that moment. If a cop issues a sections, I recommend you purchase knowledge to make an educated citation, the judge who hears your a CVC from the DMV. They cost about decision before a major purchase or case has the only relevant opinion. $20. I would not rely on information modification to your Jeep. Additionally, sometimes opinions and you find on the internet. [Editor’s note: Before I go any further, you should rulings can vary from judge to judge. You can look up all California laws at know these articles will only contain So, please do not use these articles https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov] Question: Does my registered vehicle require two plates when it is on a roadway? Answer: Yes 5200. (Two plates required) (a) When two license plates are issued by the department for use upon a vehicle, they shall be attached to the vehicle for which they were issued, one in the front and the other in the rear. (b) When only one license plate is issued for use upon a vehicle, it shall be attached to the rear thereof, unless the license plate is issued for use upon a truck tractor, in which case the license plate shall be displayed in accordance with Section 4850.5. Question: Can I legally repaint my plates? Answer: Yes, if the paint is reflectorized and the same color

Question: Me and my best buddy Kuester bought this “STOP COP” spray in Quartzite, AZ that masks the license plate from cameras. Can I legally use it? Answer: No, you cannot alter a license plate to avoid visual or electronic capture of the license plate or its characters by state or local law enforcement. 5201.1. (Repainting a plate with non-reflectorized paint) (c) A person shall not erase the reflective coating of, paint over the reflective coating of, or alter a license plate to avoid visual or electronic capture of the license plate or its characters by state or local law enforcement.

26 IN GEAR August / September 2020 QUESTION: ANSWER: -be mounted on a hinge (so the rocks don’t bend it or No, plates shall be fastened to prevent the plates from swinging knock it off) or with wire so it swings. -be between the dash and my front windshield No, they shall be always securely fastened to the vehicle and they cannot be behind glass - mounted upside down or vertically No, the characters will be upright and displayed from left to right - bent to be mounted on the rear corner of my quarter panel

Yes, if all characters are clearly legible from the rear - mounted on my roof rack Only if it is less than 60 inches from the ground -be covered in mud or snow No, it shall be maintained in a condition to be clearly legible -crushed, bent or dented by the rocks (or beaten with Yes, if all characters are clearly legible a hammer, because you’re a poser) Yes, even if you’re a poser (true story) -covered with a tinted or clear cover No, no portion of a license plate security cover shall rest over the license plate number.

5201. (Plate mounting and covers) (a) License plates shall at all times be securely fastened to the vehicle for which they are issued so as to prevent the plates from swinging, shall be mounted in a position so as to be clearly visible, and so that the characters are upright and display from left to right, and shall be maintained in a condition so as to be clearly legible. The rear license plate shall be mounted not less than 12 inches nor more than 60 inches from the ground, and the front license plate shall be mounted not more than 60 inches from the ground. (b) A covering shall not be used on license plates except as follows: (1) The installation of a car cover over a lawfully parked vehicle. (2) The installation of a license plate security cover is not a violation of this subdivision if the device does not obstruct or impair the recognition of the license plate information, including, but not limited to, the issuing state, license plate num- ber, and registration tabs, and the cover is limited to the area directly over the top of the registration tabs. No portion of a license plate security cover shall rest over the license plate number. (c) A casing, shield, frame, border, product, or other device that obstructs or impairs the reading or recognition of a license plate by an electronic device operated by law enforcement, shall not be installed on, or affixed to, a vehicle.

Question: I have a vehicle that is registered in a state that only issues one plate. If I’m driving in California, am I required to follow California mounting requirements? Answer: You are not required to display two plates because you were only issued one. Yes, you are required to follow all California laws when you are in California.

I hope you have found this article entertaining and informative.

Note from Josh Epstein: Jon W. is a sergeant with the California Highway Patrol and long-time fellow member of the Hemet Jeep Club. Jon has written articles in the past for our newsletter, the Jeep Junk and I thought this would be a great addition to the In Gear. Poor Jon is always getting asked ‘legal’ questions about what is and what is not and can I get away with... So Jon decided to write a few articles about the more popular questions and since our club loved them, I figured other clubs would love them too. Thank you Jon!

cal4wheel.com 27 As soon as I brought it ahead of Mike Record and home, I pulled the motor his automatic when racing and stripped it down to the the quarter-mile. And at the frame. My friend Vern Brown end, my taillights are in front lived across the street from of Mike Record’s Jeep. me and had done a lot of Only thing we can think work with Dickie Simpson of is that is takes more and Larry Minor. So, I figured horsepower to run an auto- he would be the man to put matic than to run a stick me in first place in my class shift??? in the Baja 1000. Well, the sand drags MIKE’S PLUM CRAZY JEEP I soon realized that I fizzled out and were few didn’t have enough money and far between. So, I put or pit crew to “get ‘er done” PlumCrazy to street legal at Baja. and just had my fun in the I decided to try the sand sand at Glamis once or drags. I had raced my 1967 twice a year, becoming King CJ5 Tuxedo Park 4 cylin- of Hill #5 for over 30 years der in the sand drags and at Glamis sand dunes. FLAT FENDER my competition was Carl This is where I learned Jackson who seemed to be you needed three feet to unbeatable in that class. But drive a manual tranny off- versus I had the bug to race in the road. I wore cowboy boots sand with my CJ2A. to drive because the toe So I thought I needed was long enough for me more motor and put a to push on the brake with Jack Bayer built Chevy my heel of the boot and lj small block 301 CI into the the long toe reached over flatfender and named the to the go fast skinny pedal vehicle PlumCrazy (the color (throttle). I have driven my was plum and the driver faithful jeep for 49 years MIKE HARDY was truly crazy). I was quite with a manual tranny. I have successful in my class and taken it to the Rubicon, have numerous trophies. I Moab, Shaver Lake and all had a Muncie 4-speed trans the desert areas in southern and shifted from 1st gear to California. Priding myself 2nd gear, topping out at a on my footwork and being really enjoyed Terry Dean’s little over 60 miles an hour fortunate enough to have “Manual versus Automatic” in in the 100 yds. in 5 seconds. a Jeep that went wherever I My good friend Mike you pointed it... leaving me the June/July In Gear. Record had a flatfender often wondering how in with a Chevy 383 CI and a the heck did I just get over I bought a 1947 CJ2A in 1970. I powerglide automatic. When that pile of rocks in the fire my Jack Bayer motor blew breathing Chevy V8. As my bought it to race the Baja 1000 up after only a few runs, I friend Steve Fusilier told me had Mike Record build me many times, “Hardy you buy as my cousin Ed Venable was a 400 CI small block Chevy. yourself over the obstacles We left the Muncie 4-speed in the trail.” doing. manual tranny to handle Even my club members the gearing in my Jeep. Now just shake their heads and here is what we have come look the other way when I up with on manual versus come to an obstacle, short automatic... for some reason wheelbase and all. my Jeep with the manual But to their dismay the transmission seems to pull PlumCrazy is up and over

28 IN GEAR August / September 2020 and ready for more. I must Well, I am sure you have to push a hole through the and have all the trimmings admit it is not the driver but seen the bumper stickers floorboard where the clutch just like at home for our the vehicle. on motorhomes that is supposed to be located. Thanksgiving meal. Now jump ahead to states”spending our kids’ I guess my conclusion is... Hope we are all back September 2018. For inheritance.” I did just that stick shift and automatic on the trail soon and the some reason I have been and brought my LJ home. BOTH are great trans and Covid-19 scare will have a looking really hard at the I have eaten a lot of tur- each has its good points vaccine and we will have and bad. LJ’s. They have a longer key over this move... hence lived through yet another wheelbase and seem to the personalized license I can tell you my CJ2A is trying period and be back really do well on the trail plate EATNCRO (TURKEY pretty tired of being kept to normal (whatever that for Darren Weatherby, Matt wouldn’t fit). I also named in the garage as we take becomes???). And I truly DeVore, Jon Wood, and Mike the LJ Belles and Whistles the LJ everywhere. But be Ledbetter and Dan Gulley. and Lisa drives it to and patient flat fender, Turkey hope the small businessman The thing I agree with from work as a daily driver, Day is coming up and the is not a thing of the PAST!!!!! Terry Dean is it is really which I never did with the PlumCrazy will be heading invigorating to run through CJ2A. to the Glamis sand dunes to Mike has been a Cal4Wheel the gears with a 400 CI V8 I am now guilty of truly BBQ the turkey in the desert member for 41 years. barking rubber and watching enjoying four-wheelin’ with the left front wheel almost all the comforts of home... come up off the ground and top, roll up windows, A/C then speed shift into anoth- and heater, and an auto- er gear!!! Never tried it with matic trans with a sissy la a 5-speed trans. Even better la motor... but heck it goes than an Oreo Double Stuff everywhere and you are not package of cookies or a cold worn out from being too hot beverage on a long hot trail. or cold all day. When my buddy, Josh These new JEEPS are Epstein, told me a friend of truly amazing... you can his had a 2004 LJ for sale drive them down the high- I jumped in my truck and way at 70 mph and when headed to Prescott, Arizona you come to the trailhead to look it over. Damn the all you do is let the air down Jeep was set up awesome. and pull it into four-wheel It had stuff on the chassis drive. No hubs to turn in that I still don’t know what or out. Just go places you or why it is there?? would never think pos- I mean it was equipped sible in a four-wheel drive with all the bells and vehicle with all the bells and whistles one could imagine!! whistles one could ask for But it had a sissy la la in a rig. I must admit the straight 6 engine and a first couple of times I drove darn automatic trans. it my left foot kept trying (NOT MIKE’S JEEP) PHOTO COURTESY HTTPS://JALOPNIK.COM

I am now guilty of truly enjoying four-wheelin’ with all the comforts of home... top, roll up windows, A/C and heater, and an auto-matic trans with a sissy la la motor... but heck it goes everywhere and you are not worn out from being too hot or cold all day.

cal4wheel.com 29 LETTER TO THE EDITOR MOTORIZED RECREATION VS. ENVIRO- RACISM AND PREJUDICE MIKE MCGARITY

otorized recreation has reached that every lifted truck is bad? Does garbage everywhere and don’t care Man all-time high of anti-OHV this mean that every individual in a about the environment. These claims hate that I’ve never seen before in lifted truck is bad? Does this mean couldn’t be further from the truth. my lifetime. We always must fight that if you have a confederate flag When will the propaganda end? The for our OHV access against the that you’re bad? That we all now sad reality is by making us evil and bad Environmental Racism. Much of don’t have respect for the park ranger people it confirms their bias. They con- their given power to discriminate because of one individual? Don’t base tinue their ambiguous statements that against us is based on the state or all OHV enthusiasts from a few who build their base. All this does is causes federal rules, regulations, policies or don’t behave or act appropriately. This division. Instead of us coming together decisions that intentionally target faulty generalization leads to other to work out how to share our great the OHV community. We must fight conclusions that are incorrect. When outdoors, we continue to fight and to protect our access against VERY trash is not picked up, does this mean argue over how we all wish to spend disproportionately unreasonable that EVERYONE who is out on the trail our time recreating in the outdoors. forces. To make matters even worse, litters? Here is what I want everyone to we are as a group targeted, hated, Here’s what is happening. Anti-OHV hear. I want you to know who most insulted and called names. We are people are searching for, interpret- Motorized Recreation people are. all told to stay in our valley. We are ing and finding information that will We are not slobs. We come from told to not come to where we like confirm or support their hatred. This all walks of life. We are teachers, to recreate. People who have taken is “Confirmation Bias,” which leads to lawyers, law enforcement, part-time up their residence either along the cherry picking to support one’s belief employees, nurses, business owners, coast, in the desert or up in the and convenience others to buy into farmers, politicians, etc. We consider mountains have a sense of power their fallacies. The interpretation of ourselves to be just as much of an and ownership over our public land. ambiguous evidence that ALL OHV “environmentalist” as the non-OHV Even people several hundred miles behave irresponsible and that they are activists. We promote Tread Lightly! away from popular OHV trails get against their personal beliefs or values. and Leave No Trace principles. We work on social media or public zoom This leads to overconfidence in their with land managers to maintain the meetings to cry about how horrible hatred. They have moved from wishful trails and protect the resources. We and despicable the OHV community thinking into truly believing that they volunteer hundreds of hours to keep is. When they cannot prove we’re are 100% right. Rather than us finding the OHV trails properly maintained. damaging the environment with balance, they want it all! True abol- When we recreate off highway there are their one-sided fake science, they ishment of all Motorized Recreation several things we consider and teach smear us with insults, stereotypes, seems to be the ultimate end game. others. We plan and prepare our trips and socio-economic statements. Due to this overconfidence, they have ahead of time. We use GPS maps and Since when has this become made many mistakes. Mistakes within travel on designated OHV trails. We okay? I would expect that the their planning, science and now over travel and camp in approved locations. state agencies who conduct these generalization of good people. When We are always aware of trail conditions, meetings would shut down such science has not been enough, there is which minimizes soil erosion. We’re rhetoric! this recent push in creating emotional- considerate of water crossings. We The character assassinations keep ly charged public comments attacking travel where the crossings are rock happening. When hateful people all OHV as a whole. The opposing side armored. We are aware that the waters generalize another group, it’s broad has become so overconfident in their we drive through will eventually end up statements that lump everyone into biases. They have called out naming in our reservoirs and then to our homes. one category. If an individual is driv- the people who come recreated off We dispose of waste properly. All trash ing a lifted truck with a confederate road. They generalize us as all being is packed out. Human waste follows flag yelling inappropriate statements from the valley, we’re all slobs, we all proper disposal practices that in some at a park ranger does this now mean want to trash the resources, leave „ CONTINUED ON PAGE 31 30 IN GEAR August / September 2020 „ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 30 If you see someone not being a good vehicles are; I have many options. If I steward, say something. Be equally want to take my four-wheel drive and cases call for a “wag bag” and waste courteous and explain that what go camp at a lake, then I have limited is packed out. We minimize our use on they’re doing jeopardizes the future of options. If I want to go hike along the the trails and within campsite areas. what we love to do. Explain why, then We avoid any actions that increase our talk with them about these principles. coast, we have 800 miles of coastline impact on the wildlife and habitats that Together we can make a difference. to enjoy without vehicles being on the we’re visiting along the way. We have Together we can save our trails, keep beach. If I want to take my four-wheel true respect for wildlife and love to our OHV access and educate others drive out on the beach, then I have see all the beautiful animals, birds, fish along the way. limited options. I’m limited to a three- as everyone else does. Lastly, we are I’ll close with this. I want us to all considerate of others who are enjoying recreate together and find balance mile section on the Oceano Dunes. We the outdoors. We follow trail etiquette between everyone who wants to enjoy can all find balance if all sides would and maintain courteous relations the great outdoors. We must work be willing to consider each others’ with everyone, doing our best to not together. We all have areas to recreate love for their passions in life. This may impact their visit. Are there people out with or without Motorized Vehicles. sound selfish or naive, but I believe we there not following these principles? I’ve been a backpacker since I was 12 can live life in peace with one another, Sure there are, but those few do not years old. I love backpacking into the represent the majority. People new to wilderness and camping out next to a we can have balance and it can owning an off-road vehicle need to be lake. I go there because I’m away from happen between the Environmentalist taught and explained these principles. vehicles. If I don’t want to camp where and Motorized Recreation community. FIGHT FOR OCEANO

„ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18 see fit, with no explanation. The APCD and not caused by OHV! The claims claim it is all necessary to meet a dust from the APCD and SAG are inaccurate residential areas. Does this sound like particulate reduction as dictated by and unfounded, and the Scripps study a well thought out plan? Well... no it their SAG (Scientific Advisory Group) just proved it. doesn’t. They aren’t worried about it and based upon SAGs false perpetu- With the gates to ODSVRA now though, because they didn’t pay for ated junk science. Everything the SAG, closed due to the recent Covid-19 it, they’ve used your OHV dollars for APCD and CCC are saying and doing restrictions, the surrounding local everything. is whatever best fits into their biased economy has been devastated. More recently, Parks has been anti-OHV narrative to remove OHV The tourism that brings revenue installing miles of non-biodegradable from the Park. It is all just smoke and into the community has come to a orange fencing at the dunes, per the mirrors... and OHV is paying for all of it. screeching halt. Nearly all the retail SOA (Stipulated Order of Abatement). Recently, the Scripps Institute con- stores, restaurants, hotels, rental Plastic fencing that has already ducted its own independent research companies and other small businesses become buried by the sand and study, and has submitted their report from the area are just struggling to reclaimed to the dunes. For those who to State Parks and the Off-Highway stay afloat and find a way to make don’t know about the SOA, it was an Motor Vehicle Recreation (OHMVR) ends meet. Sadly, many of these agreement made between State Parks Commissioners. The Scripps report businesses will not survive. This paints and the APCD, and probably one of the has shed a breath of fresh air and the perfect picture of what the local worst deals of all time. The SOA essen- some much-needed new light about economic impact to the surrounding tially gave the APCD a blank check and natural saltation, dust particulates communities would look like with free reign to begin having Parks install and air quality from in and around the closure of Oceano Dunes SVRA. We as many fences and closures as they ODSVRA. In other words, it is all natural cannot let this happen to our families, businesses and community. It is time Leave your cares behind… not your coverage! for each and every one of us to get involved, stand up and have our voices heard. What is happening to Oceano Emergent and Non-Emergent air medical memberships offered at a discounted has set a very dangerous precedent, rate for Members of the California Four Wheel Drive Association and your local SVRA or riding area could

Call or go online to enroll in both today! be next. Please go to oceanodunes.org 530-510-2915 | www.amcnrep.com Use Coupon Code 11014-CA-BUS and join us in our fight! Help us save Questions? Call Jennifer Hart, Membership Manager - 530-510-2915 Oceano Dunes SVRA!

cal4wheel.com 31 THANK YOU TO OUR WIN-A-JEEP SPONSORS!

KITTEN CHAPMAN, 2020-2021 WIN-A-JEEP COMMITTEE MEMBER

am not a writer by any to drive on the streets, love for vehicles whether it’s the convenience of your I means but I feel it is but mechanically worthy for pleasure or for the ever home made simple. While important, and I believe for wheeling adventures. If demanding off roading — your browsing their website all Cal4Wheel members you would like a chance at this is your shop! Thank you take the time to read their would agree, to express winning, please log on to JEP Autoworks for taking history, it’s quite interesting. our appreciation to cal4wheel.org, hover over Cal4Wheel’s modest Win- this year’s Win-A-Jeep store, then click on Win- A-Jeep and creating a must METAL CLOAK builder and the awesome A-Jeep Tickets, and place have four-wheeler anyone metalcloak.com sponsors who donate your order. It’s that easy. would be proud to have. items even in the most Remember that we cannot difficult times such as charge you in advance for THE SPONSORS what we are all facing the tickets, so your ticket this year. The builder order will be free. BF GOODRICH and the sponsors who bfgoodrichtires.com THIS YEAR’S BUILDER have contributed are highlighted below. I am JEP AUTOWORKS taking this opportunity to jepautoworks.com MetalCloak has been show just the tip of our involved in the past as a appreciation by taking 37inch tready and ready! Cal4Wheel Win-A-Jeep build- fingers to laptop and What can one say about BF er and an awesome job they writing this article. JEP Autoworks is located Goodrich that isn’t already did too. Hmmm wish I would in the town of Hemet in the known? This company has have won that one! Originally THE JEEP San Jacinto Valley. They have been around for years! this company was known This year we are proud been in business for 21 years Their dependability, fair as Rev111 however in 2009 of our Win-A-Jeep raffle and started out as a general pricing and so many tires they decided to venture vehicle. It’s a beautiful color, auto repair shop, however and treads to choose from into additional platforms definitely a looker, guaran- it soon worked its way into it makes it your one stop and changed their name to teed to bring finger pointing the full-fledged top perfor- tire shop. While scooting MetalCloak. Soon afterwards and ‘I want that Jeep’ com- mance automotive arena. around on the internet take they expanded into the ments wherever it may go. This shop works on every- a moment and hop on their suspension market with their Being on the committee thing from simple everyday website and browse through “Patented Game-Changing this year, I have to say the automotive repairs to full the array of tires they have Suspension Technology.” dedication and hard work of racing vehicles, as well as available and find just the Not only does this company everyone involved is incred- performance street vehicles, ones you need or want. BF manufacture suspension kits ible and non-stop, to say the and let’s not forget the ever Goodrich has been donating but there’s the known 6Pak least. So far this has been an so loved off-road vehicles. tires for the Win-A-Jeep pro- Shock System, Duroflex joint, unfortunate year due to the In fact, the owner is an avid gram for years and we are Arched Tube and Overline Win-A-Jeep not being able four-wheeler himself! I ask always appreciative of their Tube Fenders. They also offer to make the usual up-close you who is going to know generosity and look forward Frame-Built Bumper System and personal appearances what we four-wheelers want to adding these goodies for several jeep models, and but Cal4Wheel will prevail. out of our ever-demanding on the vehicle every year. If of course the lightweight, Even COVID-19 pandemic rock crawling, creek cross- you’re interested in getting with protection like steel, cannot stop this project ing, sand scooting, cross a new set of tires check Ditomic Armor. There’s so from moving forward. Just country, mud creeping, them out first. They can much more MetalCloak has as Cal4Wheel always has street legal, green stickered, equip you with top of the to offer but you need to look in the past, the build will four-wheeling beasts than line tires for the make and over their website to appre- continue so we can once a four-wheeler himself? You model of your four-wheeler. ciate it all. They’ve got you again roll out a raffle vehicle got it, JEP Autoworks. JEP You can find a dealer near covered from your largest for that lucky winner in Autoworks has made its way you by going online and needs down to the smallest February of 2021. This Jeep into the industry with hard checking out their website. but necessary needs such as work, dedication and the will not only be a beauty Nothing like shopping from „ CONTINUED ON PAGE 35 32 IN GEAR August / September 2020 CALIFORNIA FOUR WHEEL DRIVE ASSOCIATION’S WIN -A- JEEP

TICKETS Win this 2020 Jeep JL $ Unlimited, fully accessorized with 5 donations from our sponsors. WINNER NEED NOT BE PRESENT CAL4WHEEL.COM/WINBUILT BY GIVEAWAY FEBRUARY 20, 2021 cal4wheel.com 33 EPSTEIN REPORT

„ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10 it’s looking really good and the more I get to work on it and look at it I keep imagining what it could look like in my garage or on the trails — sorta like a child imagines what Santa is going to bring them for Christmas, I have delusions of grandeur of our president, Mr. Jack Chapman pulling my winning ticket and looking over at me… Yeah, I know. As I sell tickets through my shop, everyone tells me the same thing: “Here’s the winning ticket” or “Take care of my baby till February,” etc., etc. But seriously tho, Jack, I’ll let you drive ABOVE: Bonnie it around the block after you pull my Ferguson checks ticket. But in all seriousness, please out the newly reorganized wall at strongly consider attending Operation the office. Desert Fun or Panamint Valley Days here in the south as we would love to RIGHT: The ‘brick’ have you, but more importantly, your display. registration helps the association bat- tle these current land use issues but more importantly, the ones we don’t know about yet. Plus, we have better decided to put his career and family the pleasure to see the office in per- wheeling here in the south, I mean, before Cal4Wheel (I know, right?) and son, you should really make the effort does the Central District have anything resigned his position in June. Ryan, to come and see it. Bonnie Steele but flat land out there? I have made a thank you very much for all that you and Glenn Reynolds and countless few trips up and down the 5/99 and I have done and the extreme, unlimited volunteers have taken what I already am a little curious. The north has awe- effort you have put into the asso- thought was breathtaking and went some scenery and mountains, but I ciation. We all know that family and through all of it and really improved am biased and we have cool deserts it. Every time I head into that room, down here. I challenge Glenn and Mike careers come first, and I wish you the to change my mind about how much best of luck sir. Ryan and I pretty much I’m taken aback by all the history on better their wheeling is compared to came into the association relatively at the walls — it’s surreal. Every club that the infamous south. the same time and I had the pleasure has ever been a part of Cal4Wheel is In actual news, we are trying to plan of working with Ryan when we were „ CONTINUED ON PAGE 35 for the south district meeting as I type both membership chairs and he has this, which I sent an email out about helped me tremendously and I can’t to the delegates and hopefully we’ll thank him enough. Good luck buddy! I NEW have a solution to that shortly. I hate know we’ll continue to see Ryan on the saying it over and over again, but this trails and helping out with C4W. LIFE MEMBERS corona thing has really put a damper Believe it or not, we had a board in my outside of the house/shop life meeting, in person! It was great to see and I truly miss all my delegates and everyone and to get to sit in the same Angela Cook hanging out with all of you at runs — room instead of on a computer screen. when we have them. We practiced our social distancing Jason & Kaylie Cooke In board of directors news, I am and I was very pleased to see the Vay Duong & Anh Nguyen sorry to report this, my friend and fel- newly remodeled conference room at Geoff King low BOD member, Ryan Choate, the your Cal4Wheel headquarters. I highly Matt & Christina White Central District membership chair has recommend that if you have not had 34 IN GEAR August / September 2020 WIN-A-JEEP THANK YOU

„ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 32 their vehicle themselves, it’s made perhaps they’re able to just - hang - possible by their “do it yourself” cage on. With many of us no longer getting tools and accessories. If you’re looking installation. What more can the aver- that regular paycheck that allows us to to achieve a vehicle in performance, age wheeler ask for? Rock Hard 4x4 have a little extra to spend on goodies protection, and all the goodies for visual has been building off road cages and it has caused a tremendous financial attraction look no further, MetalCloak’s bumpers for over 20 years but that’s loss for them, yet they continue to for you! not all they have to offer. They have support our association by making been gracious by donating a very large sure we continue to receive their ROCK HARD 4X4 securely wrapped pallet consisting of donations. We all know how much rockhard4x4.com not only the sport cage & brace sys- money goes into our vehicles for our tem, front bumper, rear bumper with enjoyment. I would like to ask, if you tire carrier, but also rock sliders, tank could please, reach out to them and mounts and cargo basket. All of which support them in return and let them is going to add that special look to know how much we appreciate them this year’s Jeep. This company offers working with Cal4Wheel. Together we Rock Hard is a “Made in America” multiple products for your wheeling business located in Nebraska and is can help keep each other strong in this vehicles, but to appreciate all they devastating time. known for their cages as well as their have to offer you need to check out front and rear bumpers. They have their website. Happy shopping! come up with a patented locking collar Hope you enjoyed this article. design for their cages which, as they ON A PERSONAL NOTE: Please keep an eye on our Facebook say on their website, “is the strongest COVID-19 has hit businesses hard, page to see products we receive post connection of its kind” and Cal4Wheel causing some to close forever. Some this issue release. I will also highlight is proud to have them onboard with of the businesses in this article were more of our sponsors in the upcom- the Win-A-Jeep program. For anyone forced to cut hours, slow produc- ing issue of the In Gear. Stay safe wanting to put one of these cages in tion due to layoffs of employees, or everyone! EPSTEIN REPORT

„ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 34 and it’s not getting easier. I won’t fill email or showing solidarity in numbers this article with land use but I will say when requested, do whatever you can proudly displayed in this room, even that Oceano Dunes is a powder keg to help us help you. Feel free to reach if they are not affiliated with C4W or of turmoil and with this recent state out to Jeff Blewett directly or feel free have since disbanded. I spend a lot closure the studies showed a lot of to send me hate messages and I’ll do of time looking around at old plaques particulate matter in the air — without my best to help you directly, or point and old clubs, then I look at all the for- anyone recreating on the beach… So, you in the right direction. mer presidents proudly displayed, and it proves the point that it’s not the In closing, I’ve sorta rambled on I am humbled. During the board meet- people out there beating up the dunes with this article — if you made it ing, everyone was working great with causing the issue, but it just shows this far, thank you. I’m sure you had one another and we got quite a bit of how much harder we have to fight better things to do — I mean, who business handled and out of the way. to keep that area open to the public. doesn’t. I wish all of you continued We are still working on the insurance What most people don’t understand for side-by-sides, which looks very and should care about is this: Oceano health, both physically and mentally. If promising. We are just about ready is just a small part in this. If they close you’re bored, maybe you can write an to send out a request for proposals that, how long before they start work- article and submit it to the glorious, (included in this issue) for a new natu- ing both north and south? How long infamous, patient, Editor in Chief, Suzy ral resource consultant for the south before all of us here in the south are Johnson. I mean, if I can muster up a to help alleviate Jeff Blewett, who fighting for Ocotillo, Truck Haven or few paragraphs about nothing, you has been doing an outstanding job! Johnson Valley? It’s not that far away should be able to. Speaking of Jeff Blewett and land use, and I implore you to help fight wher- man, there are some battles out there ever you can. If it’s a simple letter or … Till the next campfire cal4wheel.com 35 club directory for more info visit cal4wheel.org/club-directory or contact your membership chair (see contacts on page 4)

River Rats Offroad Club El Dorado Jeepherders CENTRAL DISTRICT Visalia, Lemoore, Hanford, Fresno Granite Bay 4x4 In Motion Robert [email protected] Sean 916-215-2613 Modesto, Turlock Santa Barbara 4WDC http://santabarbara4wdclub.com Esprit De Four 4WDC https://espritdefour.club/ Mary [email protected] (209) 605-7993 Santa Barbara, Goleta, Ventura San Jose, and the rest of the Bay Area 4X4Him Christian Wheelers http://4x4him.com Dick [email protected] 805-968-2437 Ellen [email protected] 650-964-4705 Fresno, Clovis, Madera, Visalia Santa Maria 4 Wheelers https://sm4wheelers.org/ EZ Jeepers Jeff [email protected] 559-944-2209 Santa Maria, Orcutt Northern California Bakersfield Trailblazers http://bakersfieldtrailblazers.org Nick [email protected] 805-458-5710 Foresthill Fourwheelers Bakersfield Sequoia Sidewinders Foresthill Jeremy [email protected] 661-805-1472 Porterville Tyler [email protected] Broncos Unanimous Marvin Cell 559-920-4311 or 559-781-4430 Four Dice 4WD Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/FourDice4x4/ Laton Sierra Road Runners San Jose, South Bay Area Bobby [email protected] 559-867-2128 Visalia Keith [email protected] 415-309-2658 Cen Cal Crawlers https://www.facebook.com/Cen-Cal-Crawlers-1410998659111589 SLO 4 Wheelers http://slo4wheelers.org Gold Hills Posse http://posse4x4.org Visalia, Tulare, Woodlake, Exeter, Farmersville San Luis Obispo county Folsom, El Dorado Hills Eric Miller [email protected] 559-381-4151 George [email protected] 805-466-7659 Brad 916-933-0731 Clovis Independent 4WD Club http://clovis4x4.com Trailbusters Of Kings County https://www.facebook.com/hanford4x4/ Golden Gate Jeepers Clovis Kings County, Hanford Belmont Marcus [email protected] 559-269-6394 John [email protected] 559-362-0997 Bernard 650-593-4456 Ditch Bank Off Roaders 4x4 https://www.facebook.com/DBO4x4/ Grass Valley 4-Wheelers Inc http://gv4w.com Fresno Ca, Fresno County, Madera County NORTH DISTRICT Grass Valley President: Ryan Choate [email protected] 559-871-0556 Jim Campe [email protected] 530-919-3640 4WD Cliffhangers Of Vacaville http://www.facebook.com/4wdCliffhangers Four Wheel Drive Club Of Fresno http://fresno4x4.com Grim Creepers Vacaville, Fairfield, Winters, Elmira Fresno City and County, California Vacaville Eron [email protected] 707-410-7820 Geauna Scheer 719-989-5307 Dylan [email protected] 707-685-6681 All Season Wheelers General 4 Wheelers Hi-Landers 4 Wheel Drive Club http://hi-landers.com Somerset Bakersfield Bedrock 4 Wheelers Citrus Heights, Orangevale Donna 661-872-6668 High Rock Trekkers Sacramento http://highrocktrekkers.com High Sierra 4 Wheel Drive Club http://facebook.com/HighSierra4WDClub Black Diamond 4x4 Club Nevada Woodlake, Tulare, Kings, Fresno and Kern Counties Carole Vance 775-246-4099 Ukiah, Lakeport, Nice Steve Tindle [email protected] 559-804-0540 Hillhoppers Jeep Club, Inc Black Sheep 4WD Club https://www.facebook.com/groups/123091004380392/ Hill Hoppers Of Fresno Dublin Redding, Anderson, Cottonwood, Palo Cedro, Red Bluff areas Fresno Viola [email protected] Joe Albion [email protected] 530-604-0707 Dennis 559-430-9649 Joaquin Jeepers Boonie Bouncers Kingsburg 4WD Club Inc Salida, Stockton, Lodi, Galt, Valley Springs, Modesto, Oakdale Sacramento Kingsburg, Laton JEFF BLEWETT [email protected] 209-210-7880 Bob [email protected] 916-783-0233 David [email protected] Klamath River 4 Wheel Drive Association Cal Sierra ATV Club http://calsierraatvclub.com Lock & Low 4WD Club http://lockandlow.com Central Point, OR Northern California Visalia Tom [email protected] 541-883-2044 Felton [email protected] Cyndi Ward 559-972-3707 Lake Tahoe Hi Lo’s 4WD Club California Trail Runners Low Budget Off-Road Lake Tahoe Sacramento San Jose Gary [email protected] 530-577-9039 Jacob [email protected] 408-799-0477 Capital City Mtn Goats 4WD Club http://ccmg4wd.org Madhatters 4X4 Club http://madhatters4x4.com Mud Sweat & Gears 4WD Club Mud Sweat & Gears FaceBook page Sacramento Livermore, Pleasanton, Dublin, Tracy, Fremont, Walnut Creek, Castro Sonora, Tuolumne County Gary Coleman [email protected] 570-955-9500 Valley Terry Easley [email protected] 209-768-2437 Contra Costa Jeepers John [email protected] No One Left Behind 4x4 https://www.facebook.com/NoOneLeftBehind4x4/ Walnut Creek Mendocino 4x4’s Fresno Jeff 925-837-6015 Ukiah Matt [email protected] Diablo 4 Wheelers http://diablo4wheelers.com Sean [email protected] 707-354-4351 OutKast Jeepers http://www.outkastjeepers.com Concord Motherlode Rockcrawlers http://www.motherloderockcrawlers.com Modesto, Farmington Steve [email protected] Amador county Robert [email protected] 209-481-0923 Dirty Dozen Jeep Club Ron [email protected] 209-920-3150 RailTown OffRoad Club http://railtownoffroad.org Somerset Mountain Transit Authority http://MTA4x4.com Tracy Jim [email protected] 530-622-1678 San Jose Steven 209-833-6244 Dixon 4 Wheelers David Steinke [email protected] Ready 2 Rock http://tinyurl.com/ready2rockfb Dixon Mudsuckers 4wd Club http://mudsuckers4wd.com Tulare Larry Text please 707-386-2835 Sacramento Dan [email protected] Tom [email protected] 916-802-2060 VIEW & SEARCH CLUB DIRECTORY AT HTTPS://CAL4WHEEL.ORG/CLUB-DIRECTORY 36 IN GEAR August / September 2020 Napa B.E.T.S. http://napabets4x4.com Webilt 4x4 Club http://webilt.com Orange County 4-Play http://oc4play.org Napa Valley Placer County Orange county Steve [email protected] 707-363-2438 Jim [email protected] (916) 812-0294 Kamala [email protected] 714-897-3315 Napa Valley Jeepers http://napavalleyjeepers.com Wine Country Rock Crawlers http://winecountryrockcrawlers.org Point Mugu 4WDC https://m.facebook.com/pointmugu4x4/ Napa Valley, and surrounding counties Santa Rosa Ventura County and Southern California area dave [email protected] Marco Paletto [email protected] 707-321-1576 Jared MacLeod, President [email protected] (805) 444-8015 NorCal Crawlers https://www.facebook.com/groups/107134336030320/ Women Out Wheeling Roughwheelers 4WDC http://roughwheelers.com Chico and surrounding area Sacramento Southern California Jay Lowe [email protected] 530-570-4781 Shirley 916-383-7128 Tuvia [email protected] 310-404-3232 North Tahoe Trail Dusters San Diego 4 Wheelers http://sd4wheel.com North Tahoe SOUTH DISTRICT San Diego John Briggs 530-414-1333 Antelope Valley 4 Wheelers http://antelopevalleyfourwheelers.com Joe [email protected] Ophir Gopher Jeep Club Antelope Valley San Diego Outbacks Oroville Don 661-947-7082 San Diego David Casagrande [email protected] 530-589-3268 Capo Valley 4WD Club http://cv4w.org Marc [email protected] 760-518-3175 Pair-O-Dice 4 Wheelers https://PairODice4Wheelers.com South Orange County Scouts West http://scoutswest.com Paradise, Magalia, Sterling City, Chico, Oroville. High Lakes, Inskip Bruce [email protected] 949-275-7602 Anaheim David Phelps [email protected] 530-413-5087 Desert Burros Four Wheel Drive Club https://facebook.com/desertburros4wheeling Paul 714-313-3303 Redneck Fury Rancho Cucamonga & High desert (Apple Valley & Hesperia) Tierra Del Sol 4wd Of S. Diego http://tds4x4.com Citrus Heights Matt Freeman Matt: 909-919-3660 San Diego Paul [email protected] (916) 417-8279 Desert Dawgs 4WDC http://desertdawgs.org Patrick Vaughan, Pres. [email protected] 760-587-5240 Rough & Ready Jeep Club Riverside Trail Crew http://thetrailcrew.com Sacramento John [email protected] 951-681-8608 Santa Clarita, Van Nuys, San Fernando and Los Angeles County Dave [email protected] 530-672-4280 Dirt Devils Of So Cal http://dirtdevils.org Ernest [email protected] 818-319-9205 Sacramento Flatfenders Orange, Riverside and Los Angeles counties Victor Valley Four Wheelers http://victorvalley4wheelers.com Sacramento Mike [email protected] 714-504-8514 Adelanto, Apple Valley, Phelan, Hesperia, Oak Hills, Victorville Chris [email protected] Drifters Jeep Club http://driftersddd.blogspot.com/ Ed Adams, President [email protected] 760-508-7360 Sacramento Jeepers http://sacramentojeepers.com Pomona, Glendora Sacramento Patrick Fay [email protected] 909-532-2017 OUT-OF-STATE / STATEWIDE Jami Walker [email protected] 916-806-6121 Eastern Sierra 4X4 Club,Inc http://www.easternsierra4x4club.com Jeep Expeditions California Chapter http://www.jeepexpeditions.org Sacramento Valley Top Gun Mammoth Lakes, Bishop We have members that live in every region that Cal4Wheel has. Sacramento Mike [email protected] 760-937-6663 Glenn Reynolds [email protected] 916-685-5215, 916-834-7547 Russ Chung, California Chapter Director [email protected] Gad-Zuks 4 Wheelers http://www.gad-zuks.com Komstock Krawlerz 4 Wheel Drive Club San Francisco Jeepers Rancho Cucamonga, Los Angeles, Southern California Dayton, NV San Francisco, Fremont Rob Yungen [email protected] 909-322-6480 Michael [email protected] 650-504-0703 Larry [email protected] 775-246-3212 Gear Grinders 4WDC http://geargrinders4wdclub.org Nevada Nomads 4WDC Santa Cruz 4WD Club http://sc4wdc.com Ridgecrest, Inyokern, Trona Dayton, NV Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley, San Lorenzo Valley, Watsonville Jim Kenney [email protected] 760-495-2400 Johnny [email protected] 831-776-9341 Larry [email protected] 775-246-3212 Geared Four Fun 4WDC http://geared4fun.com Sin City Outlaws 4WDC Drive Santa Rosa 4x4 Inc. http://sr4x4s.com North San Diego county Las Vegas, NV Santa Rosa Brenda 760-216-6747 Chris [email protected] 707-696-2601 Gary [email protected] 702-242-9400 Hemet Jeep Club http://hemetjeepclub.com Sierra Treasure Hunters 4WDC http://sth4x4.club Hemet Sacramento Mike [email protected] 951-929-6492 Suzanne [email protected] High Desert Four Wheelers http://www.hd4w.com South County Trail Riders Palmdale, Lancaster, Quartz Hill, Leona Valley, Rosamond San Jose, Morgan Hill, Los Gatos Dirk [email protected] 661-810-7262 LOOKING FOR A CLUB? Glyn 408-224-6549 Inland Jeep Freeks http://www.inlandjeepfreeks.org Start by looking for a club in your The Rat Pack 4x4 Club, Inc Temecula area, then contact them for more Redding, Shasta county Dave [email protected] 951-813-8912 information. Meeting times and Alden [email protected] 530-604-9848 Jeep Addicts So-Cal www.jeepaddicts-socal.com locations for each club are located in Trailbusters 4x4 Club Of Solano County http://facebook.com/Trailbusters4x4 San Fernando and Santa Clarita Valleys our online directory. Solano county Bill 213-321-8139 Jaime [email protected] 707-624-6732 Jeeping Jeepers Jeep Club Tri Valley Rock Knockers Orange county NOTICE SOMETHING WRONG Livermore Jim 714-719-4691 WITH YOUR LISTING? Richard [email protected] 925-766-0674 On The Rocks 4 Wheelers http://ontherocks4x4.org Wandering Wheelers Jeep Club http://wanderingwheelers.com If you are a club admin, you can change Thousand Oaks your club's information in the online Hayward Bob [email protected] 805-807-2284 Al [email protected] 925-634-4472 portal at cal4wheel.org or contact the webmaster by sending an email to [email protected]

VIEW & SEARCH CLUB DIRECTORY AT HTTPS://CAL4WHEEL.ORG/CLUB-DIRECTORY cal4wheel.com 37 EVENT CALENDAR CHECK FOR MORE EVENTS AT HTTPS://CAL4WHEEL.COM/CALENDAR

AUGUST 2020 barbecue dinner will be provided on and dash plaque. Runs for all skill Saturday for a nominal fee. For more levels and vehicles. More info at 6-9 C4WDA SIERRA TREK. We have information contact Rick at montez@ cal4wheel.com/molina-ghost-run canceled Sierra Trek due to Covid-19 yahoo.com or at espritdefour.com restrictions. Refunds are available JANUARY 2021 for registrants. Contact the office for OCTOBER 2020 assistance. 22-24 C4WDA WINTER FUN 16-17 C4WDA OPERATION FESTIVAL, Nevada County Fairgrounds SEPTEMBER 2020 DESERT FUN, Ocotillo Wells, CA. Runs in Grass Valley. Runs for all levels. for all vehicles and drivers, base Registration includes your choice of 4-7 C4WDA HIGH SIERRA POKER camp, raffle, meal available. Info at runs, meals for the weekend, games, RUN near Shaver Lake, CA. All types cal4wheel.com/operation-desert-fun raffle and more. See cal4wheel.com/ of runs, camping, raffle. For info, visit winter-fun-festival for info. cal4wheel.com/high-sierra-poker-run NOVEMBER 2020 FEBRUARY 2021 19 4X4 HOW TO CLINIC, sponsored 13-15 C4WDA PANAMINT VALLEY by Esprit De Four, at the Hollister DAYS, near Trona, CA. Runs for all 19-21 C4WDA CONVENTION, Lamp Hills SVRA near Hollister, CA. The vehicles, base camp, meal available, Liter Inn, Visalia, CA. We’ll have our one-day clinic consists of classroom raffle. Visit cal4wheel.com/panamint- annual business meeting, hospitality, instruction, two guided trail tours, valley-days for info. seminars, a trade show, awards and one-on-one guidance through banquet and more. Info available at several exercises. Virtually all four- 20-22 C4WDA MOLINA GHOST cal4wheel.com/convention wheel drive vehicles and all levels of RUN, Hollister Hills SVRA near driver skills are welcome. Students Hollister, CA. **RESCHEDULED FROM must provide their own lunch. A MAY** Registration includes Saturday run choices, one dinner, raffle ticket LOOKING FOR THE TO ALL CALENDAR CONTRIBUTORS: Putting an event here is FREE to member CLASSIFIEDS? clubs and associate members. Please try to narrow your event location down to a city, if possible, or an easily located cal4wheel.com/classifieds Gearbox listings are only $35! Get yours. region of the state. This helps our Call Suzy at 805.550.2804 members and guests who are unfamiliar or email [email protected] with our events.

California forests are threatened by nonnative insects and diseases. These invasive species can be transported on firewood to new areas where they can become established and kill large numbers of trees.

• Leave firewood at home - buy or collect firewood where you camp. • Use firewood in the same county or region where it was cut. • Locate local firewood vendors at firewoodscout.org. PROTECTION • Bring only what you’ll need, and burn responsibly.

.org

38 IN GEAR August / September 2020 ASSOCIATE MEMBERS VIEW/SEARCH ONLINE DIRECTORY: HTTPS://CAL4WHEEL.ORG/ASSOCIATE-DIRECTORY

OFF-ROAD ENTERPRISES...... 209-931-1170 BRADLEY’S AUCTION CO., INC...... 619-297-7653 NORTH DISTRICT 2953 Cherryland Ave., #B, Stockton, CA 95215 San Diego, CA; joebradley.com; Auctioneer services, autos, fundraising, real estate & business AESTHETIC AND IMPLANT DENTISTRY...... 916-783-0122 PACIFIC COAST DRILLING COMPANY...... 707-481-5906 liquidations 2350 Professional Dr., Ste. 100, Roseville, CA 95661; Dentistry 346 Bellevue Ave., Santa Rosa, CA 95407; pacificcoastdrilling.com; Foundation drilling CALIFORNIA CASUALS SPORTSWEAR.....calcasuals.com/909-899-7444 ALAN YORDY EQUIPMENT CO...... 209-462-1495 P.O. Box 9462, San Bernardino, CA 92427; 3412 E. Miner Ave., Stockton, CA 95205; PULSKAMP...... 916-802-5896 Silkscreen/screenprinting Laundry & dry cleaning sales, services, parts; welding, fitting, 2715 Curran Rd., Ione, CA 95640; Signs & screenprinting bending, etc. CALTREND CUSTOM SEAT COVERS....caltrend.com/714-708-5115 RACKWORKS...... rackwork-s.com/408-712-3770 2121 S. Anne St., Santa Ana, CA 92704; Custom seat covers ALL AWARDS...... 916-729-0505 1719 Grant St., #7, Santa Clara, CA 95050; RackWorks cargo rack 7335 Greenback Ln., Citrus Heights; CA 95621; Awards RUBICON TRAIL ADVENTURES....rubicontrailtours.com/209-329-4392 COYOTE ENTERPRISES LLC...... coyoteents.com/949-645-7733 ASSORTED BUSINESS SERVICES...... 925-679-9442 PO Box 1026, Plymouth, CA 95669; Rubicon Trail guides P.O. Box 12137, Costa Mesa, CA 92627; Oakley, CA; assortedbusinessservices.com; Manufacturer, importer/exporter offroad aftermarket SMALL BUSINESS OUTSOURCE.SBOutsource.com/510-256-5801 IT services, camera systems, phones, cabling accessories 2911 Ralston Way, Hayward, CA 94541; BIG CEDAR MINI STORAGE...... 209-295-6600 Website hosting; design & domains GENRIGHT OFF ROAD...... genright.com/805-584-8635 Pioneer, CA; Self-service storage 4535 Runway St., Simi Valley, CA 93063; SNEVEY’S OFFROAD...... sneveysoffroad.com/530-255-4302 Gas tanks, body armor, and more CASAGRANDE STORAGE...... 530-589-3268 4392 Bowyer Rd., Redding, CA 96002; LINE-X LLC...... line-x.com 5370 Old Olive Hwy., Oroville, CA 95966; Mini storage Off-road parts & accessories San Diego, CA; Bedliners, accessories, protective coatings DENNISON PRECISION MACHINE...... 530-241-1961 STALLS & STRIPES, INC...... 925-783-4088 MILLER OFF ROAD...... milleroffroad.com/760-788-6557 Redding, CA; Machine shop 2063 Main St., Oakley, CA 94561; stallsandstripes.com; 333 Elm St., Ramona, CA 92065; Jeep parts & accessories ENTERPRISE PUBLICATIONS...... 916-684-7348 Parking lot maintenance/asphalt PALE HORSE TRANSPORT 3437 Point Pleasant Rd., Elk Grove, CA 95758-9719 STELLAR BUILT...... stellarbuilt.com/916-882-0333 Cedar Glen, CA EXTREME GEAR OFF-ROAD PRODUCTS...... 916-635-4900 8136 Junipero St., Sacramento, CA 95828; Offroad and fabrication shop PREMIER DIGITAL PRINTING...... poprinting.com/714-293-8790 11389 Trade Center Dr., Ste. C, Rancho Cordova, CA 95742; 735 W. Taft Ave., Orange, CA 92865; Printing extremegearoffroad.com TRAIL FORGED...... trailforged.com/707-387-0074 4 wheel drive repair/specialty shop/product sales 2148 Bock St., Santa Rosa, CA 95403; PURNICO INC...... 714-392-5677 2101 Traynor Ave., Placentia, CA 92870; General engineering FHP AUTOMOTIVE...... 530-721-1441 Manufacturer high end performance products 2907 Lake Forest Rd #1, Tahoe City, CA 96145; VENTURE JEEPS, INC...... 888-425-4884 REDLANDS CHRYSLER JEEP DODGE RAM...... 909-793-2141 4x4 parts, repair, diagnostics San Mateo, CA 94403; Jeep tours and instruction 500 W. Redlands Blvd., Redlands, CA 92373; redlandscjdr.com; Dealership FLEXTOUT MOTORSPORTS & FABRICATION...... 530-521-5586 WARN INDUSTRIES...... warn.com/916-984-2122 3200 Jones Ave., Chico, CA 95973; facebook.com/flextout 104 Emigrant Ct., Folsom, CA 95630; Winch manufacturer SHOWER POUCH...... showerpouch.com/310-571-8848 Full service 4x4 shop Torrance, CA; Large body wipes for outdoor enthusiasts WEST COAST DIFFERENTIALS....differentials.com/916-635-0950 SIR-VIVOR...... sir-vivor.com/714-745-7524 IH PARTS AMERICA INC...... ihpartsamerica.com/530-274-1795 2429 Mercantile #A, Rancho Cordova, CA 95742; Placentia, CA; Urban and trail survival gear 119 E. McKnight Way, Grass Valley, CA 95949; Differential parts International Harvester parts, service, repair, fabrication SLIDE STEP...... slidesteps.com/760-887-3600 Victorville, CA; Rock slider accessory J&M OFFROAD...... 530-273-7627 125 Spring Hill Dr., Suite 6, Grass Valley, CA 95945; CENTRAL DISTRICT sPOD...... 4x4s-POD.com/661-755-8139 4-wheel drive fabrication 27804 Zion Ct., Castaic, CA 91384; ADVANCE ADAPTERS...... advanceadapters.com/805-238-7000 Switch and power components J&S TRUCKING...... 916-424-5800 4320 Aerotech Center Way, Paso Robles, CA 93446; 117 Otto Cir., Sacramento, CA 95822; Truck brokerage Engine & transmission components J&W AUTO WRECKERS...... jwjeep.com/800-924-9732 CLAWSON MOTORSPORTS....clawsonmotorsports.com/559-435-5020 OUT-OF-STATE 8626 Antelope Rd., Antelope, CA 95843; 6334 N. Blackstone Ave., Fresno, CA 93710; Motorsports New and used Jeep parts ARB-USA...... arbusa.com/425-264-1391 JEEP JAMBOREE USA...... 530-333-4777 LINGLEY ENTERPRISES...... 209-840-2654 4810 D St. NW, Suite 103, Auburn, WA 98001; 2776 Sourdough Flat, Georgetown, CA 95634; Jeep trips Oakdale, CA; lingleyenterprises.com; Air locker distributors Service, repair and remodel contractor JEEPERS JAMBOREE, Inc...... 530-333-4771 BDS SUSPENSION...... bds-suspension.com/517-279-2135 MARLIN CRAWLER...... marlincrawler.com/559-252-7295 P.O. Box 900, Georgetown, CA 95634, jeepersjamboree.com; Coldwater, MI; 1543 N. Maple, Unit B, Fresno, CA 93703; Jeep trips Aftermarket suspension lift/leveling kits & accessories Aftermarket off-road parts LUEDERS...... 707-217-5247 B.F. GOODRICH TIRES...... bfgoodrichtires.com/800-458-5000 316 Altair Cir., Bishop, CA 93514; Fabrication, parts, restoration PRO T’S...... 559-662-8783 100 S. E Street, Madera, CA 93638; One Parkway South, Greenville, SC 29615; Tire manufacturer METALCLOAK.COM...... metalcloak.com/916-631-8071 Embroidery & screen printing CRAZY SUZY PUBLISHING & DESIGN.crazysuzy.net/805-550-2804 2484 Mercantile Dr., Rancho Cordova, CA 95742; 4551 S. Paseo Don Rolando, Tucson, AZ 85746; Tube racks, tube fenders, suspension RUGGED RADIOS...... ruggedradios.com/888-541-7223 Graphic & web design, web hosting 951 E Grand Ave., Arroyo Grande, CA 93420; MY OFF ROAD RADIO...... myoffroadradio.com/559-300-0144 Headsets, radios & communications FREEDOM RECOVERY GEAR...... freedomrecoverygear.com Rancho Cordova, CA; Ham radios and classes, maps, off road Pritchard, BC Canada; Winch lines, soft shackles, recovery gear recovery equipment W&S FIREARMS TRAINING...... 559-816-0709 Hanford, CA; Basic & advanced firearms training, CCW training IMPACT MARKETING LLC.impactmarketinglv.com/702-575-4512 NAC – Craft Home Brewing...... 916-216-5337 3945 Narrow Canyon St., Las Vegas, NV 89129; Sacramento, CA; Craft home brewing XEROFABWORX...... xerofabworx.com/520-247-6088 PO Box 342, Shaver Lake, CA 93664; Marketing and design Suspension design, fab, off-road repair MICHIGAN TRUCK SPRING...... truckspring.com/989-755-0561 3649 Wolf Rd., Saginaw, MI 48601; ASSOCIATE SPONSORS Aftermarket lift kits, leveling kits, shocks, winches, accessories SOUTH DISTRICT OFFROAD PASSPORT...... offroadpassport.com/602-980-0713 FHP AUTOMOTIVE Fountain Hills, AZ; 530-721-1441 1ST GEAR OFF ROAD...... 1stgearoffroad.com/951-654-4532 Website for outdoor adventurers, trips, camping, etc. PO Box 741, San Jacinto, CA 92581 fhpautomotive.com ROUNDFORGE...... roundforge.com/609-917-3029 4WHEEL PARTS...... 310-900-5570 Pennington, NJ; 2907 Lake Forest Rd. #1 801 W. Artesia Blvd., Compton, CA 90220; Parts, sales, service 4x4 tech on winching, recovery, mods & fabrication Tahoe City, CA 96145 ADVANCED CLUTCH TECHNOLOGY, INC...... 661-940-7555 SPIDERWEBSHADE...... spiderwebshade.com/321-251-7258 206 E Avenue K4, Lancaster, CA 93535; advancedclutch.com; Orlando, FL, Manufacturer of Jeep tops and accessories 4x4 parts/repair, automotive repair Performance clutches and flywheels and diagnostics TOM WOODS CUSTOM DRIVE SHAFTS....4xshaft.com/801-393-4538 ADVANCED JEEP ENGINEERING...... 951-347-1593 2533 W 1800 N, Far West, UT 84404; Custom driveshafts 7661 Lakeside Dr., Riverside, CA 92509 MICHIGAN TUFFY SECURITY PRODUCTS...... tuffyproducts.com BILSTEIN OF AMERICA...... Bilstein.com/us/en/800-537-1085 25733 Road H, Cortez, CO 81321; Storage boxes & accessories TRUCKSPRING Poway, CA; Manufacturer of performance shocks truckspring.com Saginaw, MI Aftermarket suspension lift kits, Associate Life Members, Associate and Corporate Sponsors are listed in bold. leveling kits, shocks BECOME AN ASSOCIATE: cal4wheel.com/associate-membership cal4wheel.com 39 LADIES..…&.….GENTLEMEN WE NEED YOUR INPUT!!!! First off thank you for reading past the headline — that means we piqued your interest!

Bonnie Steele and I have decided to involve our members in putting together recipes for the CAL4WHEEL CAMPING COOKBOOK All of us, I’m sure, have gone camping one time or another while out wheeling and needless to say we’ve gotten creative with meals as a way to save space, pack less cooking articles, and to make meal preparation easier.

We would like to hear from our membership what they do to accomplish feeding their group or family while on the trail. Sharing your meal recipes and cooking tips will make someone else’s meal planning much easier as well as interesting and perhaps more diverse.

We will be putting together a Cal4Wheel Camping Cookbook but we need your recipes, quick tips, and how to’s.

Please send the below info via email to [email protected] First and Last Name (if you do not want your name published just say anonymous) Club Name Recipe Cooking items required (i.e. pots, pans, Dutch oven, etc.) If you have any quick tips - share those too

Bonnie and I look forward to publishing your yummy camping eats.

Kitten Chapman ND Sec./Treas.