GOLD WING ROAD RIDERS ASSOCIATION NORTH WEST COAST DISTRICT MARCH 2021

DISTRICT NEWSLETTER http://gwrra-nwc.com/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/2033564500194434/

District Director Kevin Bramhoff [email protected]

District Ride Coordinator Keiller Gowans [email protected]

District Treasurer Irene Hoffler [email protected]

Motorist Awareness Coordinator Rino Genzale [email protected]

Membership Enhancement Coordinator Giselle Collins [email protected]

District Educator Vernon Clark [email protected]

District Webmaster Dave Ward [email protected]

District Newsletter Editor Tony Brooks Items for the Newsletter can be e-mailed to: [email protected] [email protected]

Deadline for submissions is the 22nd of each month District University Coordinator Ian McAlpine [email protected]

Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 1

DISTRICT DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE

Fellow Wingers: Our rally is not going to take place in 2021. It was considered the prudent thing to do, to move it forward into 2022. What we will do is provide a multi-day district ride this year and we are working toward putting together a format that allows for riding and socializing in a safe environment. This Year, we have some new and exciting riding to look forward to. Your district has been in the midst of planning for 2021 and we will be putting these events and rides on using the tools available to us if the Pandemic still exists amongst us. GWRRA has a new web site. Check it out at: https://gwrra-canada.ca/ . The website will serve as a portal to the districts and from there to the chapters. It already has links to the major programs within GWRRA. Items of national interest such as rallies and large events, will be listed on the calendar, supported through links on the calendar to the various web pages for those events. It will also serve as the platform for our new national recruitment program…stay tuned for that one as well. Weather varies throughout our district, in the north, well it has been pretty cold. In the Lower Mainland and Eastern Fraser Valley of the weather has been surprisingly mild…however today, the date this article was written the temperatures have dipped into the minus numbers. That being said, and I am gratified to say, many chapters have been out riding and taking advantage of the mild weather. Good on you all! We all need to continue to stay in touch via zoom or allowed meetings. Karin & I have attended many Chapter zoom calls and it’s good to see you all. I encourage you all to stay connected and participate wherever, whenever you can. Your organization needs you and your support as much as you need ours. We will communicate details of the above to all of you in a timely fashion so you can move forward to plan your rides for 2021. Remember fellow wingers, there is light at the end of the tunnel, and it is not a train! Thank you for being members of GWRRA; your membership and participation is what makes GWRRA the finest international riding association in North America.

Until I see you all again, Be safe – Ride safe.

Respectfully Kevin Bramhoff District Director – District N.W.C "The Great North West Coast"

Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 2

GWRRA NWC (NORTH WEST COAST) DISTRICT District Director: Kevin Bramhoff: [email protected] http://gwrra-nwc.com/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/2033564500194434/ GWRRA SCHEDULES BC-A (Vancouver) https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BzEcR6Ei4hmja0NtUWdPcXVwZHc/view BC-C (Chilliwack) http://www.gwrra-bcc.org/gwrra-bcc-events BC-D (Surry) http://www.gwrra-bcd.org/events.html BC-G (Kamloops) http://gwrra-bcg.org BC-V (Victoria) http://gwrra-bcv.org YT-A (Whitehorse) http://gwrra-yta.org BC CHAPTER A (VANCOUVER) Monthly Breakfast Gathering 3rd Sunday of every Month (except Dec). Breakfast: 8:30 AM, Gathering: 9:30 AM Ricky’s All Day Grill – 1090 Lougheed Hwy, Coquitlam Tuesday Night Coffee (Rides in season) Wendy’s – 3698 Grandview Hwy, Vancouver. Coffee 6:00 at PM, Ride at 7 PM Saturday, Sunday and Holiday Morning Coffee (Rides in season)

McDonalds – Lougheed and Boundary, Vancouver. Coffee at 8, Ride at 9 AM Evening Dinner Meeting: 3rd Wed of the month Cancelled until Further Notice Directors: Dave Ward and Giselle Collins: [email protected] BC CHAPTER C (CHILLIWACK) Monthly Dinner Meeting 3rd Tuesday of every month (except Dec) Dinner @ 6:00 PM, Meeting @ 7:00 PM Location To Be Determined Director: Karin Young: [email protected] BC CHAPTER D (SURREY) Monthly Dinner Meeting 1st Wednesday of the month: 5:30 for Supper, 7PM for the Meeting Ricky's Family Restaurant, 8958 - 152nd Street Surrey, B.C. Friday Night Coffee & Ride (weather permitting) 6:30 for Coffee, Ride at 7PM, Tim Horton's on Fraser Hwy & 166 Director: Martien Van Beek / [email protected]

BC CHAPTER V (VICTORIA) Monthly Breakfast Meeting Every fourth Sunday of the month at 8:30 AM Ride to follow (weather permitting) White Spot - 941 Langford Parkway (except Jul, Aug & Dec) Friday Night Coffee & Ride (weather permitting) Tim Hortons, 739 McCallum Rd, Victoria, BC V9B 6M1 , 6PM Coffee, Kick Stands Up at 6:45 Chapter Director: Tony Brooks | [email protected]

Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 3

Once again, your "District Team" is faced with making tough decisions as 2021 looks to be another year fraught with issues beyond our control. Please take note of the following three updates.

1. The Gypsy Run has now been postponed indefinitely and as such all of the hotel reservations needed to be cancelled. We tried to do this on everyone’s behalf, however, most hotels are in a state of flux with staff changes and COVID challenges, so they were having difficulty finding our “block” bookings. To ensure all rooms are actually cancelled, everyone one who booked hotel rooms must call the hotels and cancel on their own behalf. The three hotels and their contact info are listed below. • Yakima Quality Inn, (509) 248-6924. • Sisters Inn and Suites, (541) 549-7829. • Quality Inn Seaside, (503) 738-8971.

2. The 2021 “Wing’s In The Cariboo” Rally is being replaced with a ride (essentially a rally without the social events). This is due to government restrictions remaining in place longer than anyone expected and so the municipal government and local venues are hesitant to commit to any sort of social gather events. The ride will take place at the same location and on the same dates that we had planned for the Rally (22 – 25 Jul). Notices will be going out advertising the replacement ride as well as a schedule and routes. More details will be available in the next few weeks and you can begin planning your summer rides. In 2022 we will be hosting a formal rally. "Wings in the Cariboo – Revisited will be held July 21st – 24th 2022. We will be moving all reservations, venue rentals and catering to those dates. All of the vendors have agreed to do this. Anyone that has registered or moved their registration forward from 2020 is welcome to do the same for the 2022 rally. We will be sending notices to all registrants and they can indicate their desires to do this again or get refunded.

3. The Medic First Aid (MFA) course, scheduled for Saturday March 6th has also been cancelled. This is another victim of government regulation due to the new COVID-19 variants. The course will be rescheduled upon relaxation of the regulations.

The District Team will continue to monitor the situation and make any necessary changes. Our commitment is to offer you the best value possible for your hard-earned membership dollars. Any questions can be directed to: [email protected] or 778 882 2509.

Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 4 From the desk of the District Director – Gold Wing Road Riders Association, District N.W.C

March 1, 2021

Fellow wingers: I want to take a moment to point out how truly fortunate we are to have such talented people on our chapter & district teams. Recently with my new responsibility I have received many newsletters from throughout the GWRRA world. Upon review I find that we have a very talented team of "newsletter editors" in our district. I have also received praise / accolades from many people throughout GWRRA who have taken the time to read our chapter and district newsletters and have complimented us on the professional look and the excellent content our newsletters provide. Many were envious of the fact that we can produce something this "readable". Believe me, our websites are trolled by GWRRA officials and members. I want to recognize these very talented people: Kenny Locke – BC-A Newsletter Editor Robyn MacRae – BC-C Newsletter Editor Tony Brooks – BC-V Newsletter Editor & District NWC Newsletter Editor

Your talents are being recognized throughout the GWRRA organization. From all of us that enjoy these publications…Well done! Perhaps these publications will inspire the other chapters in the district to follow this "path of excellence" that has been charted. I also want to commend Dave Ward, Assistant District Director and Webmaster for his diligence and creativity in creating many of the websites for the chapters and the district as well as the new National Website. He is also responsible for the maintenance of the sites. None of this goes un-noticed. Thank you to all of you, the talented people not always recognized, in the background doing what we often take for granted. I am sure the membership would agree with me. Perhaps our members could drop these folks a line and let them know how much we all truly value their service. If you have any questions about any details with respect to the above, I can be contacted at: [email protected] or 778 882 2509. If you want to help out, or contribute some newsletter content the editors are available by email on the NWC website, https://gwrra-nwc.com/

Thank you for being members of the GWRRA. Your membership and participation are what makes the GWRRA the finest International Motorcycle Riding organization in North America.

Until I see you all again, Be safe – Ride safe. Respectfully

Kevin Bramhoff, District Director GWRRA - District N.W.C "The Great North West Coast"

Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 5 RIDER EDUCATION Riding in the Rain As our primary riding season is about to start, coupled with the fact that our geographical location tends to lend itself to more than our fair share of rain showers, I thought a few reminder tips might be in order. Most riders get used to riding in the rain by accident. We take on an all-day ride when the sun is shining, and by afternoon we frequently realize we’re going to end up with some wet asphalt, like it or not. So, suppose you’re thinking about getting on a wet road for the first time, or perhaps you’ve done it a few times, or you do it so much you’re not thinking about what the hazards are. Here is a list of critical rain hazards you should watch for when riding in our typical “Wet” Coast weather: Painted Lines: Painted lines are inherently slippery when wet. Crosswalks can be unsafe for motorcyclists, particularly if you’re turning and crossing the lines at an angle. Slow down more than usual and make the turn straight up, rather than in a lean. The same holds true for diamonds in the HOV lanes. They can be very nasty when you lean into them, especially on the freeway. The diamond is shaped so you just slide across it and continue to slide along it. Note to self……any painted line is a hazard. Surface Textures: Many commercial and residential parking areas can be paved with very slick concrete surfaces. When you leave the road and enter the local mall or condo complex, the change in road surface can cause you to drop your bike in a second. Again, ride slower and straight up, and don’t let the concrete bite you. Steel: Manhole covers are enemy number one and railroad tracks rank a close second. Making a turn over these surfaces sets you up for trouble. Avoid them or keep the bike straight up and cross over slowly. Railroad tracks have a way of popping up on you just after a turn, and you may still be into a lean when you reach them. Look for the crossing signs ahead of time, slow down, and again, stay straight up when crossing. Are you sensing a theme here regarding motorcycle positioning when dealing with various hazards? Grated bridge crossings and metal plates are nasty to encounter in the rain. Look at where you want to ride, take it slow and don’t try any fancy maneuvering. Puddles and Potholes: It only takes once to know how this one feels. You cruise through what you think is just a puddle and, when it’s too late, you have dropped into a pot hole that wants to suck you down to a place you definitely don’t want to be. Avoid puddles if you can; use caution and be aware of the possibility the puddle just may be a black hole from which there is no return. Oil: It can be everywhere. Those little red and blue rainbows on the ground mean danger. Ride slowly and straighten up. As per any motorcycle safety manual, if you’re caught in the first rain following a few dry days, remember the roads are covered with lots of oil and dirt that will be lifted from the surface in the first 30-60 minutes of a new rain. Ride safe…rain or shine! Vernon Clark District Educator NWC District

Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 6 AND POOF IT IS MARCH!

Your district team was so hopeful that we would be able to ramp up activities at both the District, and Chapter, levels by now that we spent time planning events that would take us through the riding season. BUT ... unfortunately, it looks like we are still going to have restrictions on gatherings for the foreseeable future which makes it extremely hard to commit to anything, thus the cancellations/postponements that have already been announced. On a personal note, I am crushed to think that we won't be able to spend time, as a large group, in some beautiful areas of our province - riding, socializing, eating, and generally just getting to know each other better. But fear not! There will be opportunities for rides and events (stay tuned) but we will continue to be mindful of the restrictions imposed by our Provincial/Federal Health Authorities and flexible with plan changes on short notice. I say "our" because I really enjoy meeting GWRRA members from other provinces and the USA.

While it appears that Wing-Ding will still be happening (early July in Springfield, IL) Dave and I will not be attending because we don't know if:

• our border will be open to go south for a "non-essential" trip, • we will be able to get adequate COVID medical coverage while we are away, • we will need to be vaccinated before we can cross the border, either south or north bound (or both) and can we actually get the vaccine? (highly unlikely), • we will need to quarantine when we come home. We both still work so don't have that much discretionary vacation time available.

Dave and I LOVE traveling but it seems that travel is a moving target at this time. Honestly, I don't have the energy to figure out on a weekly (daily?) basis what I am supposed to be doing (nor the money or the time to follow protocols once I know what they are). I am sure that GWRRA members are wondering what value they are getting for their membership dollars during this pandemic (more on that in a future newsletter article). As a volunteer-led organization we need each and every one of you to:

• give us your ideas. There are so many ideas out there, but we need to hear about them, • give us your time. As a volunteer organization we are always looking for help. Please contact your chapter director, or me directly, to indicate your interest in volunteering, • participate!!!! Your district, and chapter, team does this for you.

Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 7 Providing a valuable service to you, the GWRRA-NWC membership, is our priority! As we move into spring please: • enjoy the excitement of getting your bike ready for the riding season, • enjoy the rides you take now because I know that "wind-therapy" is a great friend during these times, • take some time to "smell the roses" (whenever they may bloom) and possibly enjoy a socially distanced coffee with people you haven't seen for a while, • check up on people you care about - this pandemic has been hard on lots of people.

If you or know of someone that has been having an issue with anything GWRRA related, please drop us a line either through your Chapter or through the District.

Giselle Collins Membership Enhancement Coordinator, GWRRA-NWC

Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 8 HENRY’S FINAL DRIVE GEAR – BETTER THAN STOCK! By Kim Bientjes We read an article in the WingWorld Magazine (September 2020), about changing the gear ratio on our Honda Goldwing, and were intrigued. Especially as it mentioned that it would help with reducing the throttle sensitivity at low speeds, reduce the potential for accidents on gravel, sand or wet surfaces, and reduce the amount of work in shifting when not driving on the highways. Our Goldwing (an 1800cc 2008 model) qualified as well, as this adjustment works on all 1800 models from 2001 to 2017. We contacted Henry Park (the developer), and ordered the part (https://henrysfinaldrive.com/). The article had also mentioned that installing this part on the bike would cause the speedometer to not be accurate, so we ordered a Dakota Speed Healer to recalibrate the speedometer. Both parts were installed recently, and we have to say, it makes a world of difference! Way less shifting and the throttle is a lot less sensitive, making it easier to drive at low speeds and on difficult surfaces. The costs were not prohibitive and we mailed the OEM rear gear charge back to Henry, to avoid the core charge. The article had also mentioned that the gas mileage would improve with the new adjustment, so we are looking forward to checking that out as well. As we so recently installed the parts, we have not been able to check that yet, but are fully confident that it will be another advantage. P.S. We were the first Honda Goldwing on which this adjustment was made (here in Chilliwack), but we highly recommend the garage that installed the gear and the speedometer adjustment – Chilliwack Motorcycles. The only small difficulty with the whole process, was finding a good broker to get the parts shipped from the US (import/clearing customs, duties etc.), but once we did, they took take of everything. We used Summit Customs Brokers (Richmond). If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at [email protected], or call us at 604-984-2953. Kim Bientjes

ADVERTISING GWRRA Members’ Personal Ads: Free Business Card Ad: $5 per month (minimum 12-month purchase) ¼ Page Ad: $ 10 / month (minimum 6-month purchase) ½ Page Ad: $20 / month (minimum 3-month purchase) Full Page Ad: $30 / month (minimum 2-month purchase)

NORTH WEST COAST DISTRICT WEBSITE AND FACEBOOK PAGE

You can find us on the Web or Facebook: https://gwrra-nwc.com/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/2033564500194434/

Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 9 For more info see https://gwrra-bcv.org/events/bc-v-govid-ride/ or contact [email protected] This free event is hosted by GWRRA Chapter BC-V (Victoria)

Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 10 GWRRA CHAPTER BC-V (VICTORIA) “GOVID RIDE 2021” 2,700 Km / 5 Days https://goo.gl/maps/jYxjQSPE3B528EV58

The Revelstoke Route has us base-camping in Revelstoke for several day rides, followed by a two-day trip home. On Day one, to get to Revelstoke, we could either make a straight shot across the Coquihalla or take the more scenic route up the Fraser Canyon. Upon arrival in Revelstoke, we’ll set up base camp at the Sandman Inn. Day two is the Nakusp Loop. This will be a great day of riding, full of scenery and curves. During the ride from Revelstoke to Sicamous, we can check out Craigellachie Station. Here, on November 7, 1885, CPR financier Donald Smith drove in the last spike, signaling the completion of the railroad. Following this is one of the prettiest stretches of the Trans-Canada. As we climb through the Monashee Mountains, thick forests crowd the route, which tracks the rushing Eagle River upstream. Day three sees us playing tourist. We’ll take a 150 Km ride up to the Mica Dam. After checking out the Dam, it’s back on the bikes for a 200 km ride to Canyon Hot Springs. We’ll all have a nice bathe in the hot springs before the short 30 km hop back to Revelstoke. Day four takes us out of Revelstoke for the last time as we skirt the western side of the Rocky Mountains on our way down Hwy 95, before heading west on the Crowsnest Hwy to Grand Forks for our last overnight stop. This will put is in a good position for the final run home. As the trip draws to a close, we’ll take our respective ferries from Tsawwassen back to our beloved Vancouver Island.

Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 11 5 AUG 2021 TSAWWASSEN TO REVELSTOKE (650 KM / 7 H 15 MIN) Route: https://goo.gl/maps/rd6Bc5BMV9EQ1G627 • Tsawwassen, 1 Ferry Causeway, Delta, BC • Lytton Junction Esso, 176 Trans-Canada Hwy, Lytton, BC (275 Km / 3 Hours) • Home Restaurant, 3561 Voght St, Merritt, BC (105 Km / 1 h 20 min) • Sandman Hotel Revelstoke, 1901 Laforme Blvd, Revelstoke, BC (300 Km / 3 h 10 min) Accommodations: Sandman Hotel Revelstoke, 1901 Laforme Blvd, Revelstoke, (250)837-6161 https://www.sandmanhotels.com/locations/british-columbia/revelstoke/hotels/revelstoke-rev On-Site Restaurant (Denny’s), Free Parking, Pool, Whirlpool, Complimentary Wireless Internet Rooms will be set aside for us at $135 per Double Queen Room. These rooms will only be held for us until July 1st, To book, call (250)837-6161 and quote confirmation number 433965 or GWRRA Canada Lunch: Home Restaurant, 3561 Voght St, Merritt, BC, (250)378-9112, https://homerestaurants.ca/ Supper: Denny’s on-site

Riding to Revelstoke in one day wouldn’t be too much of a challenge if it weren’t for the ferry first thing in the morning. One option is to ride over to the mainland the night before. Another option is to shorten the route by skipping the Fraser Valley Highway and taking the Coquihalla instead. This shaves about an hour off the trip.

Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 12 Revelstoke, BC “If some countries have too much history, we have too much geography,” admitted William Lyon Mackenzie King, Canada’s tenth prime minister, in 1936. When, in 1871, British Columbia agreed to confederation with the rest of Canada, it was promised a railroad connecting the west coast to eastern cities 3,000 miles away. But Canada’s geography (especially the Rockies) almost defeated the builders of the Canadian Pacific. In 1885, with the line incomplete and the company nearly bankrupt, a group of Scottish investors led by Lord Revelstoke came up with the necessary funds, and the town of Farwell was renamed in his honor. The first trans-continental CP train left Montreal for Port Moody, B.C., on June 28, 1886. In the steam years, Canadian Pacific added an extra locomotive in Revelstoke for the long climb to 4,360-foot Rogers Pass in the Selkirk Mountains. With the coming of more powerful diesels, this was unnecessary, and Revelstoke lost much of its purpose. So the city fathers revitalized the downtown, and with the opening of nearby ski hills it reinvented itself as a tourist destination. Located on the banks of the Columbia River and nestled between the Monashee and Purcell Mountains, Revelstoke is great for every kind of outdoor activity, from cycling to skiing, but especially for motorcycling. It’s surrounded by mountainous adventure roads, and is just 150 miles from the amazing Icefields Parkway in the Rockies. The well-groomed town center is the perfect place for an evening stroll, with live street entertainment, bustling bars, and outdoor restaurants. www.seerevelstoke.com

Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 13 6 AUG 2021 NAKUSP LOOP (450 KM / 6 H 15 MIN) Route: https://goo.gl/maps/HdBP8QV5JCj3nZ2k8 • Revelstoke, British Columbia • Petro-Canada, 1250 Middleton Way, Vernon, BC V1B 2V9 (150 Km / 2 hours) • Cherryville RV Golf and Roadhouse Cafe, 1361 BC-6 (45 Km / 35 min) • NAKUSP ESSO CENTRE, 1101 Hwy 23, Nakusp, BC V0G 1R0 (150 Km / 2 h 15 min) • Revelstoke, British Columbia (100 Km / 1 h 45 min) Accommodations: Sandman Hotel Revelstoke, 1901 Laforme Blvd, Revelstoke, (250)837-6161 https://www.sandmanhotels.com/locations/british-columbia/revelstoke/hotels/revelstoke-rev On-Site Restaurant (Denny’s), Free Parking, Pool, Whirlpool, Complimentary Wireless Internet Rooms will be set aside for us at $135 per Double Queen Room. These rooms will only be held for us until July 1st, To book, call (250)837-6161 and quote confirmation number 433965 or GWRRA Canada Breakfast: Denny’s on-site Lunch: Cherryville RV Golf and Roadhouse Cafe, 1361 BC-6, Cherryville, BC, (250)547-9660 https://www.cherryvillervgolfandroadhousecafe.com/ Supper: Either the Denny’s on-site or Zalas Pizza & Steakhouse, 1605 Victoria Rd, (250)837-5555 Long-time, casual restaurant & pub offering Italian & Canadian food, plus a salad bar. https://www.zalasrestaurant.ca/ (450 m / 7 min walk) Reminiscent of Gypsy Runs and Hard Rock Buns Rides, this is a great day of riding, full of scenery and curves. During the ride from Revelstoke to Sicamous we can check out Craigellachie Station. Here, on November 7, 1885, CPR financier Donald Smith drove in the last spike, signaling the completion of the railroad. Following this is one of the prettiest stretches of the Trans- Canada. As it climbs through the Monashee Mountains, thick forests crowd the route, which tracks the rushing Eagle River upstream.

Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 14 7 AUG 2021 MICA CREEK DAM / CANYON HOT SPRINGS (350 KM / 4 HOURS) Route: https://goo.gl/maps/iJuodYxFYZpiF2jE7 • Revelstoke, British Columbia • Mica Creek, British Columbia (145 Km / 1 h 30 min) • Canyon Hot Springs, British Columbia (175 Km / 2 hours) • Revelstoke, British Columbia (35 Km / 30 min) Accommodations: Sandman Hotel Revelstoke, 1901 Laforme Blvd, Revelstoke, (250)837-6161 https://www.sandmanhotels.com/locations/british-columbia/revelstoke/hotels/revelstoke-rev On-Site Restaurant (Denny’s), Free Parking, Pool, Whirlpool, Complimentary Wireless Internet Rooms will be set aside for us at $135 per Double Queen Room. These rooms will only be held for us until July 1st, To book, call (250)837-6161 and quote confirmation number 433965 or GWRRA Canada Breakfast: Denny’s on-site Supper: Either the Denny’s on-site or The Village Idiot Bar & Grill, 306 MacKenzie Ave, (250)837-6240 Ski-themed hangout offering pizzas, burgers & other bar food, plus outdoor seating & local brews. http://www.thevillageidiot.ca (2.5 Km / 30 min walk / 5 min drive)

Day three is more of a tourist day. We’ll take a 150 Km ride up to Mica Dam. After checking out the Dam, it’s back on the bikes for a 200 km ride to Canyon Hot Springs. We’ll all have a nice bathe in the hot springs before the short 30 km hop back to Revelstoke.

Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 15 Mica Dam From Revelstoke, the fully paved B.C. Highway 23 runs north to the Mica Dam. According to Wikipedia Mica Dam, a hydroelectric dam spanning the Columbia River, was built as one of three Canadian projects under the terms of the 1964 Columbia River Treaty and is operated by BC Hydro. Completed in 1973, the Mica powerhouse had an original generating capacity of 1,805 megawatts (MW). Mica Dam, named after the nearby settlement of Mica Creek and its associated stream, in turn named after the abundance of mica minerals in the area, is one of the largest earthfill dams in the world. The reservoir for the dam is Kinbasket Lake, which was created when the dam was built. Water from the dam flows south directly into Revelstoke Lake, the reservoir for the Revelstoke Dam. Mica Dam is the tallest dam in Canada and second tallest in North America after the Chicoasén Dam in Mexico and it is the farthest upstream dam on the Columbia River. The dam's underground powerhouse was the second largest in the world at the time of its construction, and was the first 500 kV installation of sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) insulated switchgear in the world.

Canyon Hot Springs The mineral waters of Albert Canyon were allegedly discovered by CPR workmen at the turn of the century. They built a timber enclosure at the site of the springs as this was used as a pool until the townsite was abandoned when the CPR removed the maintenance post. Today, water from the spring is piped almost 2 miles down the valley side to feed a 15,000 gallon hot pool and a 60,000 gallon swimming pool. The Hot Mineral Soaking Pool temperature is 40°C and the swimming pool is 32°C. It looks to be the perfect place to stop by, relax a little, and enjoy not only the pools and surrounding scenery but also the local cafe and friendly trading post.

Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 16 8 AUG 2021 REVELSTOKE TO GRAND FORKS (725 KM / 8 HOURS) Route: https://goo.gl/maps/nQKNbGDpM8u2g517A • Revelstoke, British Columbia • Cranbrook, British Columbia (400 Km / 4 h 20 min) • Grand Forks Inn, 2729 Central Ave, Grand Forks, BC V0H 1H2 (325 Km / 3 h 45 min) Accommodations: Grand Forks Inn, 2729 Central Ave, Grand Forks, BC, (250)442-2127, https://grandforksinn.ca/ On-Site Sushi Restaurant, Free Parking, Outdoor Pool, Complimentary Wireless Internet, Free Breakfast Rooms will be set aside for us (hopefully with a discount). These rooms will only be held for us until June 1st. Be sure to mention you are with the GoldWing Association when you book. Supper: Sushi at the Grand Forks Inn or Clydes, 7248 2nd Street, 250-442-3913, https://www.clydes-pub.com/ Clyde’s was built on the site where the Old “Longhorn Hotel” had burned down in the spring of 2000. Clyde’s received its name from the ghost that used to haunt the rooms upstairs at the Longhorn. Some say they can still hear him walking at night.

This is a bit of long day, but it puts us in a good position to reach Tsawwassen at a reasonable time the next day. Although this route is all major highways, they are major “fun” highways with lots of scenery and wonderful curves. For supper, there’s a little Sushi place right at the motel, or the more pub style eatery “Clyde’s” is short a short cab away.

Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 17 9 AUG 2021 GRAND FORKS TO TSAWWASSEN (550 KM / 6 HOURS) Route: https://goo.gl/maps/49ZdwmMVCp7ppEZY8 • Grand Forks Inn, 2729 Central Ave, Grand Forks, BC V0H 1H2 • Billy's Family Restaurant, 301 Vermilion Ave, Princeton, BC (245 Km / 2 h 45 min) • Flying J Travel Center, 63100 Flood Hope Rd, Hope, BC (135 Km / 1 h 30 min) • Tsawwassen, 1 Ferry Causeway, Delta, BC V4M 4G6 (160 Km / 1 h 45 min) Breakfast: Continental Breakfast at the hotel, or Jitterz Coffee & Espresso, 1573 Central Ave, (1.4 Km east of the hotel), (250)442-6277. A drive through Coffee Bar for those that need an extra shot of caffeine this morning. Lunch: Billy's Family Restaurant, 301 Vermilion Ave, Princeton, (250)295-3939. An old favorite lunch stop for our Chapter. Supper: On the Ferry

Highway 3 is a wonderful road to follow with more of the same stunning scenery and windy roads we enjoyed the day before. Billy’s Family Restaurant in Princeton has become a regular lunch spot for our Chapter. There’ll be a final fuel stop at the Flying J just west of Hope and then we’ll have supper on the Ferry.

Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 18 Municipality Call Sign Description Frequency

Vancouver CKWX News 1130 1130 AM Vancouver CBU-2-FM CBC Radio One 88.1 FM G Vancouver CJJR-FM 93.7 JR Country 93.7 FM

Vancouver CKKS-FM-2 KISS FM Contemporary 104.9 FM

Abbotsford CBU-1-FM CBC Radio One 88.5 FM

Abbotsford CKKS-FM-1 KISS FM Contemporary 92.5 FM O

Abbotsford CKQC-FM Country 107.1 107.1 FM

Chilliwack CBYF-FM CBC Radio One 91.7 FM

Chilliwack CBU-FM-7 CBC Music 99.9 FM V

Chilliwack CKKS-FM KISS FM Contemporary 107.5 FM

Hope CFSR-FM Star 98.3 Contemporary 100.5 FM

Hope CBUE-FM CBC Radio One 101.7 FM

Merritt CBUP CBC Radio One 860 AM I

Merritt CKBZ-FM-3 B-100 - Today's Hit Music 99.5 FM

Merritt CIFM-FM-3 Kamloops' Best Rock 103.9 FM

Kamloops CBYK-FM CBC Radio One 94.1 FM D

Kamloops CKRV-FM 70s, 80s, 90s 97.5 FM

Kamloops CKBZ-FM B-100 - Today's Hit Music 100.1 FM

Kamloops CBPL-FM CBC Weather 101.9 FM

Kamloops CJKC-FM New Country 103.1 103.1 FM

Salmon Arm CKXR-FM EZ Rock 91.5 91.5 FM

Salmon Arm CBUC-FM CBC Radio One 96.9 FM

Revelstoke CBTO-FM CBC Radio One 91.3 FM R

Revelstoke CKCR-FM EZ Rock 91.5 106.1 FM

Nakusp CBUM-FM CBC Radio One 99.9 FM

Nakusp CKBS-FM EZ Rock 103.1 103.1 FM A

Golden CBXE-FM CBC Radio One 101.7 FM

Golden CKGR-FM EZ Rock 106.3 106.3 FM

Radium Hot Springs CBUQ-FM CBC Radio One 94.5 FM

Invermere CJAQ-FM-3 Jack 96.9 Contemporary 97.3 FM D

Invermere CFSM-FM-3 Day FM Contemporary 107.7 FM

Cranbrook CBRR-FM CBC Radio One 101.3 FM

Cranbrook CHBZ-FM B-104 Total Country 104.7 FM I

Cranbrook CFSM-FM Day FM Contemporary 107.5 FM

Creston CFKC EZ Rock 1340 1340 AM Creston CBTS-FM CBC Radio One 100.3 FM O Castlegar CJAT-FM-1 EZ Rock 90.3 90.3 FM

Castlegar CKQR-FM The Goat - Rock 99.3 FM

Grand Forks CJAT-FM-2 EZ Rock 103.3 103.3 FM

Grand Forks CBTK-FM-2 CBC Radio One 107.3 FM

Osoyoos CJOR EZ Rock 1240 AM 1240 AM

Osoyoos CBUB-FM CBC Radio One 95.3 FM

Princeton CIOR EZ Rock 800 AM 1400 AM

Princeton CBRG-FM CBC Radio One 93.1 FM

Princeton CIGV-FM-2 New Country 100.7 98.1 FM

Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 19 Kevin's Musings So, as I was doing last month, I was musing about the ride season for 2021 and the plans we are making with a special emphasis on riding here in BC. Here is another bunch of "Hidden Gems" we have discovered while traveling all across this beautiful province of ours. You may have heard of them all or visited them and some of you may not…this little article will serve as a reminder for some and enlightenment for others. Let me start by saying that the establishments listed here are in my opinion worth stopping and visiting, you of course may feel differently or some of you may want to give them a try, your choice. I am leaving live links so you can check these places out on the web while reading the newsletter.

They are listed in no particular order; however, each location is on routes common to us all: The Ranch - This one I remember well; our group was heading back from Grand Forks during the "Rock Hard Buns" 2020 ride and we decided we all wanted breakfast in Keremeos. Well, the only place actually open at that time of the morning, (my favourite Pub was closed) was the Ranch Restaurant. We were not disappointed. Even with COVID-19 rules in place they managed to accommodate us all and the service was excellent. The food did not disappoint either. Good place to stop. Check them out at: https://www.facebook.com/The-Ranch-Restaurant- 1585790011696727/ https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g183737- d761228-r476938771-Ranch_Restaurant- Keremeos_British_Columbia.html THE RANCH RESTAURANT, 511 7th Ave, Keremeos, BC V0X 1N0, Canada 250-499-5123

Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 20 Gypsy Run 2019 we found this place. The Deadwood Junction. It was raining, hailing, cold and we were heading toward Grand Forks. We needed to stop and warm up…they had coffee baked goodies and frankly were very accommodating to us freezing riders. The first real good stop just before the downtown. Several of us stopped there and were grateful for the excellent service and hot soup and coffee. I recall Rino and I trying to dry

our gloves on the heater inside. Deadwood Junction has gifts, Coffee, soup, sandwiches and baked goods. There is also outdoor BBQ as well as Beer if you want. Great spot, highly recommend It when you are heading east. Ample parking as well.

Check them out at: http://deadwoodjunction.com/ Deadwood Junction Greenwood, Highway #3 502 Silver St, Greenwood, BC, Phone-250-445-2255 Hours-Every Day 7am-6pm. Christmas Day-10am-2pm, BBQ Hours-Thursday-Monday, [email protected] Christina Lake Location (New Hours) Highway #3, 1675 Kimura Rd, Christina Lake, Phone-236-350-0020

The Copper Eagle also in Greenwood BC. When heading west it’s a great place to stop. It has everything you could want. Really it does…several of our group stop there and often spend time off their bikes to enjoy refreshment. They are well appointed and there is ample street parking for bikes. Right in downtown Greenwood you can select between indoor and outdoor seating. The hospitable staff at this place can show how much they like their guests.

Prices are found affordable here. You will appreciate the divine decor and quiet atmosphere of this spot. Check them out at: https://restaurantguru.com/Copper-Eagle-Cappuccino-and-Bakery-Greenwood-British-Columbia Copper Eagle Cappuccino & Bakery Ltd, 325 S Copper, Greenwood, BC V0H 1J0 (250) 445-6121 Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 21 Grand Forks Station Pub – 2019 Gypsy Run. It was a great spot for socializing. It's Pub food so I would deem it adequate, however, they did have a pretty good wine list. There were a number of us staying over at the hotel and I had already bought a round for everyone at the restaurant at the hotel. We found out later there was only one taxi in town. I called him up and he stated he may not be able to handle all of us as he had "regulars" he had to take care of. I stated I wanted everyone that was not walking to be transported and slipped him a hundred bucks and…eureka!... he made it work. We had a great time. No one drove and we (several of us) tried a couple of bottles of Okanagan wine. They had a great Scotch list as well. When we retired from dinner and making sure all got home safely, we looked back, and all had a great time. They let us use the Banquet room, Keiller had booked this for us as the ride organizer and it was excellent. Service was superb. We filled up this room. All considered it was the atmosphere present for us all that made the difference. The staff was very accommodating. If you are staying over in Grand Forks, I recommend it for the good time you will have. Check them out at: https://boundarybc.com/directory/listing/grand-forks-station-pub 7654 Donaldson Dr, Grand Forks, BC V0H 1H2 Phone: (250) 442-5855

Built in 1900, not only is it one of the few wood framed stations which have survived in BC, but it is also the oldest survivor which has not been relocated. Today the old tracks of the Columbia and Western Railway which run past the station are long gone but the track bed is now the Columbia and Western Rails to Trails trail, which is part of the Trans Canada Trail, the world's longest hiking and biking trail. The station has been designated a heritage railway station by Parks Canada.

Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 22 This place was quite a surprise when Karin & I stopped. Typical Pub however, the food is not typical…at least that day. It was a…hey they have fish & chips episode. So, I am thinking we are not really near an ocean how good could their frozen fish be?

It was good, really! It was an OMG moment of surprise with a taste that was close to that of the Pub at French Creek on Vancouver Island! It was to say the least well, worth the stop. A great selection of local Kootenay brews to select from I have to say I would stop there again! Check them out at: https://www.clydes-pub.com/, 7248 2nd Street, Grand Forks BC V0H 1H0, right beside the Fire Hall. Phone: 250-442-3913

Absolutely the Best Halibut & Chips on the Planet - there is in my mind no doubt about this. Whenever Karin & I are on the island, we will deliberately head to Parksville / French Creek (at the Marina) from wherever we are on Vancouver Island even if we have to spend an extra day or miss a ferry, we will go there…

FRENCH CREEK MARINE PUB #1 – 1025 Lee Road, Parksville, BC, Canada V9P 2E1 Pub: +1 (250)248-3713 ext. 1. We stopped there during the Island loop ride and introduced several of our group to the heavenly bliss of their fare. It is in my view the quintessential fish & chip dinning experience. With local Island Brews on tap it cannot be topped! Check them out at: https://frenchcreekmarinepub.com/

Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 23 The Leland Hotel Nakusp BC. We have stayed there, 2019 Gypsy Run and had the pleasure of drinking and dining in the restaurant and the pub as well. The food is okay, better in the restaurant. It is the atmosphere you are buying.

The Historic Leland Hotel is designated to be the Oldest Operating Hotel in British Columbia. This charming boutique hotel has been consecutively run since it opened its doors in 1892. The Leland overlooks the beautiful Arrow Lakes and many mountain ranges, including the famous Saddleback Mountain. With the entrance to Spicer's Garden and the Boardwalk just steps out the front door, this lakefront destination is located in the heart of Downtown Nakusp. If you have not experienced it at least once you must. We dined there during the Rock Hard Buns Ride as well. Overall the experience is positive, just don't expect the "Ritz Carlton". Check them out at: https://www.facebook.com/The-Leland-Hotel-Restaurant-And-Bar-280972336137298/ https://lelandhotelnakusp.com/index.html

Hotel Reservations - #250-265-4221 (Front Desk Hours are 11am - 11pm) Leland Pub - #250-265-3314 Leland Restaurant - #250-265-0078 96 4th Ave SW Nakusp, BC V0G 1R0

They have this really big sundeck for Summer!

We have stayed here as well…restaurant is excellent. Accommodations are pretty good! Lots of parking for guests.

515 Broadway, Nakusp, BC, V0G 1R0

https://www.arrowlakeslodge.com/ TOLL FREE 1-800-663-0100|LOCAL 250- 265-3618

Highly recommended by yours truly

Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 24 Route 97 Diner Westwold BC…it's an interesting stop. Good place for a rest, gravel parking lot. Hotdogs, Hamburgers, shakes sodas etc…all food considered harmful to your health. The food is "Okay". It's not an OMG moment, however it will fill the void.

4901 Kamloops-Vern Hwy, Westwold, BC V0E 3B0 Opens 8 a.m. Wed. Phone: (250) 375-2000

https://m.facebook.com/Route-97-Diner- 255509021257466/

They have some of the best coffee around. Riding through Merritt BC some time ago "We" needed coffee. This is tucked away in town…you have to go into town to find it, well worth the effort, really!

2051 Voght St, Merritt BC V1K 1B8

Check them out at: https://www.kekulicafe.com/project/merritt/

They do have excellent doughnuts…did not try the other offerings, however if they are as good as the doughnuts it should be okay.

Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 25 Okay we have stopped here many times…I stop specifically for the "Meatloaf"…yes, I said Meatloaf! They have a lot of other fare however the meatloaf is really good! Also, in town, it is easy to find. Heading west toward Hwy 8 on the way to Spences Bridge you will pass right by it going through the edge of downtown. 2099 Garcia St Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 Phone: 250-378-4618 Check them out at: https://www.grandpubandgrill.net/

Corner of Nicola Ave & Garcia

Lots of Parking and easy in and out…

Next month there will be more worthwhile stops throughout BC!

Until I see you all again, Be safe, Ride safe. Kevin Bramhoff - GWRRA Chapter BC-C

Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 26 Rider's Gazette Presented by "The Carbon Monoxide Warriors" Terry Teeft & Kevin Bramhoff – 25th Edition

Fellow Riders: Twenty-five editions…just over 2 years of collaboration on this column. We are always thinking about "what to write"? Sometimes it's a stretch trying to keep what we want to write relevant to motorcycling and what we all have in common. Last week Terry & I were discussing future riding when the weather changes, when "riding weather" is upon us again, where we might like to go citing several places and regions we want to go back to or new places to explore. After a couple of hours of that well… We moved along to what to do when we cannot ride. What could keep our interest in our sport during the off season? Terry has been threatening…yes threatening to make me watch this movie he likes, "Why We Ride". He says it is a great movie and I should see it. He mentioned a couple of others as well during our conversation, one title is “World’s Fastest Indian” & the other title is "Long Way Round". Perhaps it might be a good idea to research this topic so everyone could do this, watch movies about our sport of motorcycling while waiting for the weather to change, keeping our enthusiasm piqued. To that end here are a few titles that you all may be interested in viewing.

Of course, we all remember this one, Easy Rider…purely for entertainment purposes.

All of these movies and more are listed on the following link…reviews and story lines are available for all them.

Check them out at this link: https://www.imdb.com/list/ls079348319/

They can be rented from the local library or viewed online or borrowed from someone you know. Perhaps just purchase them. Whatever means you use to get hold of these movies, watch, and enjoy. Drop us a line and let us know what you think and your favourites. Until we see you all again…Be Safe Ride Safe.

Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 27 Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 28 Why We Ride by Kevin Bramhoff Issue #2 "Perspective" Fellow Riders: When we are riding, getting into that state of Zen, being aware of all around us however being disconnected to the rest of the world, we are living that moment. It gives us a sense of reality of the moment and as we look further down the road, we are setting our sights as to where we want to go. It's that sense of "the moment" that puts why we ride into perspective. So, what the hell am I talking about…only a rider would understand, that sense of danger, (even though we all ride safe and practice ATGATT) and the risk associated with the recreation we enjoy so much. That edge that defines the two wheeled enjoyment as we are always in "that moment" or the "edge". That feeling that we get when get on the bike, fire it up and anticipate what is to come…that is perspective, at least for many of us. Perspective is very personal. Perspective has a Latin root meaning "look through" or "perceive," and all the meanings of perspective have something to do with looking, so it is a very personal vision of the moment and the existing reality. The edge can be and is different for all of us however it is also the common denominator, we all enjoy the Edge! In pursuing the Edge thus putting riding into perspective for each of us in our own way our tendencies are to push our capabilities to understand our own limits, and at times, going beyond to test our limits and gain greater perspective. This is where we become one with our machines, understanding and feeling the road, the environment, and our own capabilities gaining our true perspective on the recreation we enjoy. Even though we consider ourselves "safe Riders" we all test our ability from time to time as well as our motorcycles limits, and at times it is even done unconsciously. It brings us to the point where "we feel the ride again", rather than just being transported. Riding takes skill and we tend to test those skills occasionally. What motivates us to get to the edge, well sometimes it is wanting to create an alternative identity, our internal self, peering out, our desire to appear better than we are? Perhaps we want to experience that feeling of "Transcendence" as it has been put at times, or a search for our own identity? Without getting too esoteric, whatever the motivation it's all about our own personal vision of who we are and what we are. So, what does all this mean, it's all a matter of perspective…it only concerns you, therefore; who cares, get out and ride regardless of what or why! Happy riding!

Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 29 Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 30 GOLDWING HISTORY GL1800 Meter Panel Removal 1979 brought about big discounting on 2006 and later models GL1000's as the replacement model was I recently changed the air filter on my 2018 GL1800 and found it to be a eagerly anticipated and the last more complicated process, but at the same time easier. There’s no remaining numbers of the original could requirement to be double jointed, unlike when I performed the same task be purchased. on my 2010. It seems to me, the most difficult part was removing the Changes in this model included a CBX bloody gauge panel. My reference manual suggested prying the speaker style tail light with two bulbs and grills off with a credit card in order to access bolts below. After destroying rectangular indicators. The brake fluid a perfectly good credit card attempting this asinine process I checked out reservoirs and the levers for clutch and Steve Saunder’s website (http://www.goldwingfacts.com/) and discovered brakes were painted black instead of the that there is no need to remove the speaker grilles on models from 2006 previous unpainted alloy. onwards. The later GL1800 Meter panel is removed by simply pulling it This was the last year for the GL1000 and away from the dash. To do this pull up the panel ignition end up and the it shouldn’t pass without mention in the speaker ends back from the dash, towards the rear of the bike. history of this machine. From its early beginnings not knowing whether it was a touring motorcycle, or just exactly what, it paved the way to one of the longest running production motorcycles in history and the only luxury tourer on the market to this day. 1980 and the GL1100 promised to be one of the most exciting years ever for Japanese motorcycles, but let us never forget how it all began.

Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 31 The meter panel is connected to the Dash by a large connecter. This can be a bit stubborn but will come apart if you press the tab firmly and pull the end out of the socket. Finally, unplug the small speakers at the back of the panel and the panel will be free from the motorcycle.

Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 32 Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 33 From the desk of the District Director – Gold Wing Road Riders Association, District N.W.C

Interesting reading for all of those of us that have taken an MFA. Also, for those of us that were scheduled to attend an MFA and it was canceled, this is the consolation prize! Enjoy. The dangers of the Old West sparked the first aid kit The first aid kit was put together at a time when roughly 12,000 railroad workers and operators died each year. By Sadaf Ahsan In the Royal Gorge, Rio Grande Southern Railway, 1900, the simplest accidents can happen at any ime, whether that’s a slip and a fall, a kitchen burn or even getting industrial glue stuck in your hair. Most people are familiar with first aid kits and have one in their home and workplace. The klutzy and/or paranoid likely also have one in their glove compartment, purse, or on their person at all times.

But how did the little emergency box become so common? The answer lies in a chance meeting on a train in the Old West. For the unfamiliar, the first aid kit is a pretty standard medical tool, typically containing the following: bandages, dressings, antiseptic wipes, aspirin, gauze, disinfectant, cotton balls, eyewash, sanitizer, ice pack, saline, eyewash, scissors, thermometer, emergency blanket, flashlight, safety pins, tweezers, etc.

Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 34 The first aid kit, like many medical supplies we still use today, was first created by medical supplier Johnson & Johnson just two years after the company was created. According to the company’s history, founder Robert Wood Johnson was on a train headed to a Colorado cattle ranch for vacation in early 1888 when he started chit- chatting with another passenger.

The passenger turned out to be the Denver & Rio Grande Railway’s chief surgeon. He began telling Johnson about how hard it was getting immediate help to injured railroad workers, as railroad sites were often hundreds of kilometers away from hospitals. At the time, the standard practice when there was an accident was to send someone to fetch a doctor – that is if there was one nearby. When others nearby would try to help, they’d often only make the injuries worse. Medical supplies, too, were scarce, especially when it came to treating the kinds of industrial injuries these workers were facing.

This was during a railway boom in the West between 1880 and 1890, when more than 100,000 kilometers of tracks were laid. It entailed many accidents; about 12,000 railroad workers and operators died each year. Steam locomotives, which were especially dangerous to work on, began carrying ride-along surgeons and would eventually come to include medical cars.

Needless to say, that fateful conversation on the way to Colorado made a lasting impression on Johnson, who drafted a plan after sending letters to railway surgeons across the country asking for their advice on what might be helpful. That same year, based on the surgeons’ input, Johnson & Johnson produced two commercial first aid kits - one for railroad workers, and one for the general population.

At this point, Johnson & Johnson had sterile surgical products – including sutures, cotton swabs and gauze – for sale, making them the no-brainer first additions to the kit. So that railway workers could have these products close enough for a quick grab, Johnson packaged the kits in durable wooden and metal boxes making them small enough to be on the workers’ person or in their immediate work area. The goal was for the supplies to sustain the injured until proper medical help was available.

The following year, in hopes of better meeting people’s needs, Johnson hired pharmacist Fred Kilmer as the company’s first scientific director in hopes that he could help identify just what the first aid kit was missing. Kilmer went straight into research and, in 1901, put together first aid bulletins and the first manuals that taught users how to properly dress and treat injuries – without making them worse.

Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 35 The cover of the Hand Book of First Aid, which was the first of its kind in American medicine, featured two gentlemen carrying along a sickly, pale individual in what appears to be a rather romantic embrace but is really just a helpful one, as they come to his rescue rescue, first aid in tow. Inside, numerous colourful cartoons serve to educate and illustrate basic hygiene and emergency care so that just about anyone can feel equipped to help just about anyone else if the situation demands it.

As the company noted itself in its 1888 price list, “It is a fact, which is everywhere being recognized, that many lives are lost, and much suffering entailed in such accidents on account of the lack of the simple but necessary articles required to afford prompt assistance to the wounded.”

It wasn’t a surprise then when, by the end of the decade, it became law that all American workplaces with more than three employees must include a first aid kit with basic supplies. (In Canada, too, first aid kits are required in the workplace, with specific kit requirements based on your local legislation.)

The first aid kit has come a long way.

In 1898, the company also designed kits for soldiers in the Spanish-American war that could be carried in their pockets. That helped reconfigure the shape of the kit for years to come, which is now most recognizable thanks to a red cross emblazoned across the front. As the world evolved, so, too did Johnson & Johnson. The company produced first aid kits called “autokits” when cars became popular. And when air travel became common, it produced “aerokits.” For a time, it even had a special first aid kit for snake bites (and seemingly just for cowboys), for marine life and one entirely dedicated to vacation.

Over time, these kits have evolved along with medicine. Now, we have kits made to fit any environment, including: • schools, • vehicles, • boats, and • travel

Much like a Whopper, you can even build your own.

Sadaf Ahsan is a -based culture writer, editor and stereotypical middle child. Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 36 DISTRICT NWC GOLD WING ROAD (NORTH WEST COAST) RIDERS ASSOCIATION http://gwrra-nwc.com/ http://www.gwrra.org/

District Director National Officers Kevin Bramhoff http://gwrra.org/nationalofficers.html [email protected] Director of GWRRA A/ District Director Jere & Sherry Goodman Dave Ward Director’s Assistant District Newsletter Editor & Bob and Nan Shrader Media Tony Brooks Director’s Assistant Tom and Renee Wasluck District Treasurer Irene Hoffler Director’s Assistant John and Shawn Irons A/ District Treasurer & District Communicator Director’s Assistant Karin Young Kevin Bramhoff & Karin Young District Ride Coordinator Director of Rider Education Keiller Gowans Susan & George Huttman District Educator Director of GWRRA University Vernon Clark Lorrie Thomas District University Coordinator Director Motorist Awareness Ian McAlpine Barri and Mike Critzman Motorist Awareness Director Mbrshp Enhancement Coordinator Dan & Mary Costello Rino Genzale Director of Finance Membership Enhancement Randall & Janet Drake Coordinator Director of MEDIC FIRST AID® Giselle Collins Laurel Kuehl District Ambassadors GWRRA Head Office Dave & Gerri 1-800-843-9460 [email protected] Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 37 NWC DISTRICT EVENTS Due to COVID restrictions, many events have been postponed or cancelled, but we’re still hopeful the following will proceed as planned. The most up-to-date version of our Calendar can be found at: http://gwrra-nwc.com/calendar/

Sat 8 May Chapter BC-D Memorial Ride/Ice Cream Social Contact [email protected]

Sun 13 Jun Chapter BC-A Memorial Ride Contact [email protected] Sat 19 Jun Chapter BC-C Greenheart Ride Contact [email protected]

Sat 19 Jun Chapter BC-V Bare Bones Fish & Chips Run gwrra-bcv.org/events/bare-bones-fish-chips-run

29 Jun–3 Jul Wing Ding 42 www.wing-ding.org

Sat 17 Jul Chapter BC-V Gulf Island Ride - Pender Island gwrra-bcv.org/events/gulf-island-ride-pender-island

22 - 25 Jul NWC District Ride wingsinthecariboo.com

4/5 Aug Chapter BC-D Gold Run Contact [email protected]

5 - 10 Aug Chapter BC-V GOVID Ride 2021 gwrra-bcv.org/events/bc-v-govid-ride

Sat 21 Aug Chapter BC-A Duffy Lake Loop Ride Contact [email protected]

1 – 3 Sep Chapter BC-V Gold River Run gwrra-bcv.org/events

Sun 26 Sep Chapter BC-A Oyster Run Contact [email protected]

Sat 30 Oct Chapter BC-A Great Pumpkin Ride Contact [email protected]

Thu 11 Nov Chapter BC-A Remembrance Day Ride Contact [email protected] Gold Wing Road Riders Association – North West Coast District – March 2021 - Page 38 Fri 3 Dec Chapter BC-V Christmas Dinner gwrra-bcv.org/events