GWRRA Region BNY District - Chapter D:

"There are no wrong turns, only “D” tours!"

CHAPTER D OFFICERS & STAFF

CD: Bill & Lisa Nickalwnickal@twcny.rr.com

ACD: TBDTREASURER: Bill Downey

billrpa@aol.comMEC: Trish Thayer

pthayer27@gmail.comRIDER ED.: Rick Reardon

redwing91.rr@gmail.comCOY 2015: Bill & Julie Spencer

TECH. DIR.: TBD

CHAPTER D COMMITTEES Newsletter: Bill Spencer

Advertising: Henry Jedra Sunshine: Shirley Hammond Patches & Pins: Laurie O’Brien

Webmaster: Pam Pearson

NY DISTRICT OFFICERSDD: Steve & Katy Nutting

gwrraddny@gmail.comADD: Sean & Dawn Hayes

gwrranyadd@gmail.comADD: Gary & Donna Cork

Dgcorkny@aol.comDIST. TREAS: Eileen Guile

gwrra.b.rt@hotmail.com

IMPORTANT UPCOMING DATES

Jan 4 - Tour Committee Mtg @ 9:30AM @ Brian & Laurie ! ! O’Brien’s home, LiverpoolJan 14 - Monthly Gathering @ Euclid Restaurant @ 6PM ! (Dinner) followed by meeting @ 7PM

DASH-FOR-CASH 2015

0 pts as of 1/1/15

ANNIVERSARIESBIRTHDAYS

Jan 12 Jim ThayerJan 17 Bill DowneyJan 28 Mike JedraJan 28 Cheryl VanLengen

JANUARY 2015 NEWSLETTER

Website: www.gwrra-ny-d.org

https://www.facebook.com/goldwing.chapterdny?fref=ts

...to our Chapter Directors........! ! ! !

“Happy New Year” 2015 From Bill & Lisa

Lisa and I want to take this opportunity to welcome everyone and hope everyone had a Joyful and Safe holiday season. As we begin our journey as Chapter Directors, we look forward to the fun and knowledge we will share with our GWRRA Friends and Family. As we enter into 2015, Lisa and I are still in need of an Assistant or Assistants (couple) Chapter Director. We are fortunate to have a team of helpers to assist us as we jump in to our duties. Without your help it would be extremely difficult! It is our teamwork and willingness to help that makes our Chapter survive!

With all that said, Lisa and I wanted to share with everyone the article submitted by GWRRA Deputy Directors Bill and Dea Ann Gray of Central US GWRRA to our December 2014 GWRRA e-newsletter.

Assuming the PositionIt seems every Chapter is faced with this scenario at some point. The Chapter Director decides to step down and the Assistant Director doesn't want the job. Does this sound familiar? The BIG QUESTION is "Who is responsible for the succession of leadership in a Chapter?" Is it the Assistant Director, Chapter Director or District Director?

 The following is a description of an Assistant Chapter Director as stated in the Officer's Hand Book:

ASSISTANT CHAPTER DIRECTOR (ACD)A. Assists the CD in his effort to bring about a well-coordinated, fun, active Chapter.B. Works with Staff Members.C. Assumes CDs duties in his absence.D. Becomes prepared to assume the Chapter Director position.

           The Chapter Director took an oath that includes "To provide a succession of leadership for my office!"  Now you are thinking it is the Chapter Director's responsibility, but wait a minute...To add one more caveat to the scenario, the District Director is the appointing Officer for the Chapter Director! Are you confused now?

BOTTOM LINE: The Chapter Director is responsible for his/her succession! When appointing an assistant, the Director should always ask "are you willing to assume my duties in my absence and are you willing to take over when I step down?" Why does an Assistant Director change his/her mind? It is my opinion that too many times the Assistant is left out of the decision making for the Chapter and therefore is not prepared when the time comes. At the very least, Assistants should be copied on all e-mail communication from the Chapter Director and included in most decision making conversations.

 "I highly recommend the Officer Certification Program (OCP) for all prospective Directors

and Assistants. You will be amazed at how much you don't know or have forgotten about GWRRA. Assistants should be given an opportunity to prepare and run a Chapter gathering or two with the Director's guidance.

 "Another scenario: There is no Assistant Director and "no one wants the job!" This is where you stay positive and think outside the box. Who are the current leaders in the Chapter? Who are the team players? Couple of the Year or past Couples? Membership Enhancement Coordinator? Rider Ed? Treasurer? These folks could be ready for a change and replacing them might be easier. Doesn't hurt to ask!!

 "Our organization is built from the Chapter up! In order to survive, we must always have a succession of leadership at every level. If you currently are not a team member of a Chapter but would like to be, SPEAK UP! If you have aspirations of moving up, SPEAK UP!  

Submitted by:Bill & Dea Ann Gray GWRRA Deputy Director-Central US

...to our Chapter Director........for some additional information...

Staying Alert/Pay Attention

Although most of us are entering into our winter hibernation (you know what I mean) sadly put our bikes away, we still need to stay alert in our everyday driving. I thought it would be good to review some safety.

Winter driving can be a challenge; the weather in the north can change in a minute! Warm days can turn to cold nights and black ice can form especially on elevated surfaces like bridges. Snow can turn from flurries to Lake Effect at the snap of a finger, leading to slippery roads, blinding snow; hard to maneuver streets and slow moving snow plows. Behind the wheel becomes a matter of “Total Concentration”!

That is why it is so important to be physically and mentally prepared for every trip out the door and on to our highways! There’s no big secret to achieving this goal - all it takes is a few common sense tactics and strategies that anyone can implement, and it starts before you get behind the wheel.

Keep your mind on the task at hand (that is driving safely to reach your destination). Have a clear plan in your mind where you are going, what roads you will travel, and what are the current and projected weather conditions or difficulties you may encounter along the way. It is

a good idea to carry an emergency “Cold Weather” kit (a blanket, flashlight, snowbrush, compact snow shovel, dry snacks ETC.) If you are traveling a long distance let someone know your route of travel and when you expect to arrive. Make sure your cell phone has a full charge.

Know your driving abilities and your vehicle’s abilities! Vehicle maintenance during cold winter months is extremely important. Make sure your vehicle battery is in good condition, windshield washer fluid is full and wiper blades are operating properly and tires have proper air pressure and tread. Taking just a few minutes to do these things can mean “life or death” in many cases. The sudden snow in Buffalo NY this fall is a good example.

Stay rested! Studies have shown that drowsiness is a serious risk factor contributing to automobile accidents! Factors cited by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that contribute to drowsy driving include:- Inadequate or loss of sleep, untreated sleep disorders- Driving patterns (such as driving at night and/or driving long miles)- The use of certain sedating medications- Consumption of alcohol- Work patterns (those that work 3rd shift and usually sleep during the day)

Some warning signs that you are becoming over tired while driving include:- You continually drift off your intended path of travel- You can’t remember the last few miles- You miss your turnoff and make wrong turns more than once- You can’t stop yawning- You have trouble keeping your eyes on the road or have moments where you lose focus

(nod off)

It is wise to take frequent breaks or take a nap. If you are just ending a long workday have a snack before heading out, for a burst of energy. Eating good, nutritious foods and drinking plenty of fluids will help ward off drowsiness. It goes without saying stay off the cell phone and no texting! If you must communicate use Bluetooth devices, but remember your attention to your driving has been divided! It is best to pull over to make the call then resume your travels.

Choose your battles! Excessive emotions, especially anger, can blind you and keep you from thinking clearly! That’s one reason road rage can be a deadly enemy. As human beings, we tend to think we’re always in the right when there’s a conflict on the highway. One of the most important driving skills you can have is the ability to swallow your pride and cede the right of way to someone who may not be entitled to it! Staying angry can cloud your judgment in a big way.

As you can see, every “road trip” can be an adventure and the northeast weather just adds to the challenge of Staying Alert! Plan well, practice good maintenance on both you and your ride, and stay focused!

Stay Safe!Bill NickalChapter Director NY “D”

...Chapter Rider Educator.....

Winter Preparation for your 4 wheel vehicle

Well... we're back again this year as your Rider Ed "Specialist", so hold on to your socks ‘cause we're hitting the road - well not literally.

We haven't had much of a winter so far but hold on ‘cause it's coming and we want to give you some tips on how to prep your vehicle for the upcoming weather - snow and cold.

First off, move your Gold Book from your bike to your 4 wheel vehicle - that’s the easy stuff. Have your battery checked to be sure it’s going to last thru the winter. Remember... if it’s over 3 years old, it may be on the way out and you don't want to be stranded with a dead battery. Have your antifreeze checked to make sure it's at the right freeze protection level. Like you do with your bike all the time - check your tire pressure, also check your windshield wipers and wiper fluid - try to keep it topped off, keep your gas tank at least 1/2 full, and have your oil changed if it hasn't been done before the cold sets in. NEVER warm your car in the garage without having the garage door open (carbon monoxide will kill you without you knowing it).

Emergency items to keep in your car: warm gloves, hat, a heavy blanket, rain gear (may keep you warm and dry), flash light with extra batteries, shovel, road flares or an emergency light if you become stranded, rock salt or kitty litter if you become stuck, non perishable food / candy bars, bottled water, bright colored tape (flagging type) in case you become stranded you can tie some to your antenna so rescuers can locate you - (Keep these items in a pack or travel bag in your back seat so you can reach it easily), take your cell phone with the car charger with you every time you get in your vehicle.

If you become stranded in your vehicle - STAY in your vehicle except to keep your tail pipe free of snow (you could make a path around your vehicle and walk around it every so often to keep moving, but DON'T go any further if you can't see). Remember to only run your vehicle to keep the chill out. If you’re on the highway and it’s snowing hard try to keep track of the direction you are traveling in and note mile markers or bridge road names you pass to give rescuers a good location of where you may be if the road becomes impassable. If planning a trip during the winter, remember to check the weather conditions before and during your trip and also your return trip, you may have to reschedule your departure or return plans because of bad weather in your path of travel. Remember to stay alert for changing conditions and adjust your driving habits, speed, distance between your vehicle and others.

Drive Safe, Drive SmartRick & PamRider Educators Chapter D- NY

...to our Membership Enhancement Coordinator....

Happy New Year!

First of all, I should let you know that Jim & I will not be attending the January gathering as we will be in MD attending the 2015 Winter Thing. We will then be heading to SC to visit Jim’s sister & brother-in-law for a few days before returning home.

I also want to let those of you who were not aware…that Andy Kadys passed away in December. Andy was one of the original founders of Chapter D. What our Chapter has become since then, we owe partly to him (and Judy), as well as, to our current active members who continue to bring great ideas to the forefront. Team work is what it’s all about!

Because I won’t be at the gathering in January, let me leave you with this message that a good friend shared with me:

The Train of LifeLife is like a journey on a train…with its stations…

with changes of routes…and with accidents!At birth we boarded the train and met our parents, and

we believe they will always travel on our side.However, at some station our parents will step down from the

train, leaving us on this journey alone.As time goes by, other people will board the train;

and they will be significant i.e. our siblings, friends, childrenand even the love of our life.

Many will step down and leave a permanent vacuum. Others will gounnoticed that we don’t realize that they vacated their seats!This train ride will be full of joy, sorrow, fantasy, expectations,

hellos, goodbyes and farewells.Success consists of having a good relationship with all passengers…

requiring that we give the best of ourselves.The mystery to everyone is: We do not know at which station we

ourselves will step down. So we must live in the best way –love, forgive and offer the best of who we are.

It is important to do this because when the time comes for us to stepdown and leave our seat empty…we should leave behind beautifulmemories for those who will continue to travel on the train of life.I wish you a joyful journey for the New Year on your Train of Life.

Reap success and give lots of love. More importantly,Thank God for the journey!

Lastly, I thank you for being one of the passengers on my train!!!

Trish Thayer Chapter D ~ MEC

Keep in mind I have handle bar tags should anybody need a few of them. Just ask!Here’s the link for anyone wishing to take advantage of the FREE 2 month Trial Membership into GWRRA: http://www.gwrra.org/freetrial.html

...to our Guest Tech Contributor

Spark Plug tightening, no torque - Using “Never Seize”

There has been a lot of discussion as to the uses of “Never Seize” lubricant on spark plugs. Some people say it gives you an over torque value.

Since there is no torque spec guide in the owners manual, that would be hard to prove. I suggest that you tighten them by the owners manual instructions, and use a slight amount of nickel anti-seize. Be careful not to get any on the electrode or even the first few threads because they may protrude and get lubricant into the engine.

The owners manual states that for new plugs you turn the plug in until it stops. Then turn the wrench ¾ turn, then loosen the plug. Turn it in until it stops again and tighten it a 1/8” turn.

The reason for this is because the spark plug is a washer type, not tapered as your AC plugs. The washer is the seal and must be compressed properly. Be careful not to cross thread or over tighten the spark plugs.

Used plugs only need a 1/8” turnNGK need ¾” then 1/8”DENSO need ½” then 1/8”

Nick Lotito

...to our Chapter Couple

We would like to express our appreciation for being asked to be the Chapter Couple for 2015. We do not plan to participate in the Chapter Couple competition at the District, or higher levels, however, we do hope we can contribute to Chapter D and the New York District in other ways.

We think the participation of couples in GWRRA activities and the recognition by GWRRA of member couples is a win-win arrangement. Riding our Gold Wing as a couple has strengthened our relationship with each other...it is something that we both enjoy doing and sharing and something that we look forward to each and every time we go for a ride. Likewise, GWRRA is strengthened by the participation of member couples that often are willing to assume responsibilities within the organization by sharing the workload. We hope that our actions as Chapter COY will help to keep the tradition of recognizing couples alive and well within GWRRA. Julie and Bill SpencerNY-D COY

...to our Chapter Sponsors...

...to our Chapter Sponsors...

The Gathering PlaceWhere memories are made with family and friends

Wednesday-Friday 7am - 7pmSaturday - Sunday 7am - 2pm

County Route 17, Redfield, NY315-387-3101

...to our Chapter Sponsors...

824 N. State StreetSyracuse, NY 13208

A Full – Service Insurance Agency Dedicated to Meeting Your Unique Needs

Phone: (315) 422–2203myagencyofcny.com

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