I already know what you are thinking - “What does this story have to do with the sport of motorcycles and hard-core biking?” "Nothing really" - is my response. You have to understand something plain and simple about me. I like writing about anything and everything, not just about motorcycles and bike events. 
So, for those of you whom are hard-core only, move along and wait for my next road report. And for those of you who enjoy reading any of my whimsical nonsense about daily life, follow along as I attempt to make this somewhat relative to our love for motorcycles.
Let’s go back to the Spring of 2006. Back to a time when the Chief was “The Chief” and when riding came second in his busy but exciting lifestyle.
Having always been somewhat self conscious about my smile, I decided one evening to take a major step and begin the process of seeking out an Orthodontist to assist me in a rebuilding project. Only this time – unlike customizing a bike - I would have very little control over the types and designs of the parts to be installed. I will admit however, that I was given some choice during each ten-week visit as to the color of the elastic bands that would help to form a nice and new smile.
I was instantly pleased upon my first visit at Get It Straight in Pittsford New York. It was here, that I discovered a small community of very professional and just all around good folks whom truly cared about their patients.
Having walked into their Re-Alignment Shop two years ago in my neatly pressed uniform and seeking their help, makes me think back to that time and all of the changes in my life that have taken place since that day. My Retirement from Police work, the move to Orange County, the addition of 2 more motorcycles and the many miles of travel around the United States to attend bike events, to name a few.
My final visit was last week. I wanted to go out with a bang, so when I handed Dr. G my digital camera and told him he had to document the removal of my new grille’s structural support system, he was more than happy to oblige. The Chief doesn’t do much these days that is typical or usual, by any standards. Upon writing the final check to cover the repair job, I received a bottle of wine. “Expensive wine”, I thought aloud!
The Chief always makes a big production of everything. First impressions and expensive wine can make all the difference. Remember – you only live once!
Thank you to the expert team at Get It Straight – my new smile is sure to attract not only new friends, but without a doubt, many flying insects while I’m on the road!
~Safe Riding~
- The Chief
Recipe for an awesome Summer Saturday in New York -
Ingredients:One Harley-Davidson Street Glide
One Warm and Sunny Day
One Fun Lovin Chief
One Sweet Lady from Delaware
Mix the four together - stirred, not shaken - and you have just what it takes for a fun and exciting riding experience!
There is something about the Hudson Valley that truly intrigues me. It's one of those things in life that one often cannot pinpoint exactly. It could be the endless rolling highways along the riverbanks on either side, or possibly the unbelievable mountain ranges jutting high into the sky. Perhaps it is the bridges crossing over the Hudson or the railways running parallel.
Regardless of exactly what the attraction is to me, I know beyond any reasonable doubt that it is a sight surely worth sharing with those whom you care about.
Karen is an awesome friend of mine. She is the kind of friend that a man feels comfortable sharing his most treasured moments with. So when Karen expressed an interest in spending some time cruising around the area with the Chief and seeing some of the sights he so often has boasted about, the offer was readily accepted.
Choice of highways on this particular summer Saturday was State Route 9D which winds like a snake through Dutchess and Putnam County along the Hudson.
First stop - Orange County Choppers - which just happens to be on the way. In an effort to help Sr. pay his utility bills on his vast new complex, we made the typical OCC tee shirt purchases after a long and tedious debate on colors and fashions (thanks Karen)! 
Crossing the Newburgh/Beacon Bridge and heading down 9D we cruise into the village of Cold Spring. A village that has attracted my attention on more than one occasion, we stop in this quaint community for a short visit to enjoy some refreshments and spend a little time sharing our deepest of thoughts with each other. Karen is fun, because I can ramble on about trivial nonsense and she still likes me.
The one thing I failed to tell my friend although she was soon to find out - was the fact that even though I love this scenic area, I'm not all that familiar with the roads and where they may or may not take you. To say that I was a little nervous when we found ourselves in New Jersey in what appeared to be a National Park without a gas station in site and a needle pointing to E would simply be an understatement.
Thankfully, my Harley - good on gas - found her way out of the woods and back to civilization after an hour or so of what I believe was riding around in circles. Gas station? Yeah, we found one - but not until stopping to ask a local resident where the closest one was hiding. The Chief asking directions? Well, typically not – unless several comments prompt those actions…
-The Chief
