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GWRRA
Iowa Rider Education
– q
NOTES
----
April 1, 2010
Joe and Judy
Pirillo – Iowa Senior District Educators
“Safety is for Life”
Well… I hear that winter
is going to be another 10 months!!!
April Fools
J
May
7 is getting closer… and we hope that you are planning
on taking a Rider Course to refresh those muscles that have been
hibernating throughout the winter months.
Don’t forget the major muscle between your ears.
We can all use some practice.
We all tend to get a little lazy and start taking things for
granted. Even if you are
unable to join us for The Iowa
District’s Sixth Annual Safety Weekend make sure you get some
practice time in, if for no other reason, to be sure you are up to
controlling that beautiful bike.
ARC
is on the way… the Advanced Rider Course is in the
process of being reviewed.
We are planning on adding it as an option at next year’s Safety
Weekend. We will still
have the ERC but check out just what is going on with the ARC.
If you get a chance
during Wing Ding stop by an ARC and see for yourself what is
going on with rider training.
Make your own decision on the ARC.
Chapter
A… has a new
Chapter Educator. His
name is Greg Hayes and he
is very enthusiastic about
GWRRA and the Rider Education Program (Levels). Greg stepped up
and went right to Level III so he can start riding those additional
miles (25,000 Safe Miles) and log the additional time (Level III 12
months) so that he can join the proud ranks of the Level IV’s.
He is an MFA Rider Couch
and a soon-to-be Certified
GWRRA
Rider Instructor. Please
join me in congratulating and welcoming Greg to the ranks of
GWRRA Chapter life and
Rider Education.
qTIP… on March 21 Judy and I joined the ranks of
GWRRA Certified Officers.
The “Officer
Certification Program” (OCP)
has received some ‘bad remarks’ even before those who talked it down
have even attended.
Educators, although officers, are not required to take the
OCP but Judy and I along
with five other Educators attended the seminar. We all agreed it was
well worth our time.
Why is this important?
You learn the “why” behind the reason things are done a certain
way in GWRRA.
Rider Education is indeed the life blood of
GWRRA as 51% of the time we
spend with our GWRRA Family
must be spent on Education.
Not so strange when you consider that two thirds of our motto
relate to EDUCATION…
“Friends for FUN, SAFETY and
KNOEWLEDGE”.
The OCP is for ANY GWRRA participant.
Make your reservation for the NEXT OCP “Officer Certification Program”!!!
DON’T MONKEY with
Rider
Education
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|
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GWRRA
Iowa Rider Education
– q
NOTES
----
March 1, 2010
Joe and Judy
Pirillo – Iowa Senior District Educators
“Safety is for Life”
I HAVE A SECRET FOR HAVING FUN…
FUN
with Monkeys… the theme for 2010 Iowa District Rider
Education is “DON’T MONKEY with
Rider Education”. You
will see the “chattering” Monkey at future gatherings during 2010.
Since Judy and I will soon be the grandparents of twins, I
enlisted the help of John and Sue Olenick, Iowa Assistant District
Educators, to carry one of Rider Education’s twin monkeys to all the
meetings and gatherings they attend.
Your chances have quickly doubled in meeting one of these
FUN LOVING Furry creatures.
Motorcycle
Safety Forum… for the state of
Iowa
will be held April 30, 2010
in Ames, Iowa.
This one day event is a tremendous opportunity for all of us to
share our concerns and suggestion regarding
Motorcycle Safety.
There is a nominal $10 fee this year due to budget cuts.
The $10 not only gets you a great meal but also a chance to win
a brand new trailer to pull behind that Wing.
You will also be able to spend time and talk with other
motorcycle enthusiast that all share the same goal of keeping
motorcycling safe and FUN.
Be there and share.
Travel
Activity Sheets… were passed out at the recent staff
meeting in Clive, Iowa.
These sheets were developed to get the word out to the adult
driving public in a FUN and
educational way. The nice
thing is the “youth” will draw their siblings, parents, grandparents,
relatives, and family friends’
ATTENTION to motorcycles.
The kids will let them know we are there.
“ru1”…
was discussed at the staff meeting.
If you have a GWRRA
family member that has not been introduced the
REP Levels, do them a favor
and explain Level I of the REP to them.
Making our fellow riders aware will be of benefit to us all.
qTIP… get your registration in to participate in the
Sixth Annual Iowa District’s
Safety Weekend. A
great chance to hone your skills with regards to operating your bike
as well as what to do if medical skills are needed.
There are plenty of additional opportunities available to you
in Ankeny, Iowa
May 7 – 9. Join your
FRIENDS and surprise
yourself at just what can be learned while having
FUN.
…THE
SECRET IS YOU!!!
DON’T MONKEY with
Rider
Education
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GWRRA
Iowa Rider Education
– q
NOTES
----
February 1, 2010
Joe and Judy
Pirillo – Iowa Senior District Educators
“Safety is for Life”
Sweetheart
Weekend… is a good time to meet up with some
GWRRA friends and have some
FUN.
Hope we see you there on February 13th.
This
is a one day fun packed time!!
As a note, it is a good time to
give that special Sweetheart a learning opportunity by signing up for
Safety Weekend.
“ru1”…
so far we have 5 new level I’s in the
Iowa District.
Are you asking everyone at your
GWRRA gatherings,
“ru1”? If
you are and are not getting results, we should be sure to explain just
what is being asked.
Signing up in the REP levels is simply making a commitment to motorcycle safety.
I am not sure who in our
GWRRA family does not want to make the commitment but maybe they
think there is a cost.
There is absolutely NO COST
to make the commitment.
Let’s get every active participant in the Iowa District signed up for
Level I. The Missouri
District is joining us in our efforts.
ARC...
coming to Iowa Safety Weekend.
The letters ARC stand for
GWRRA’s very own
Advanced
Riders
Course. This is
very different then the ERC, Experienced Rider Course, which we have
been holding at past Safety Weekends.
It is something you will want to take.
This year we will be a training site to train
GWRRA Rider Instructors the
art of instructing this course.
You have the opportunity to have multiple qualified instructors
help you with the GWRRA ARC
so be sure to sign up for this year’s
Safety Weekend, May 7th, 8th, &
9th. You will not
regret your chance to learn.
qTIP… Rider
Education is not only important to each of you but it is important
to our GWWRA Organization.
We get a top value learning experience and our National
Organization finds it easier to maintain the tax status.
Why should we care?
Well, that status allows more money to go into our top notch
education. Our learning
experiences are not limited to Riding Courses but there is a bountiful
amount of RE seminars
available to us. We also
have the Medic First Aid (MFA)
course available. No, that
is not all!
LTD, as you know is the
“Leadership Training Division”, has a greater number of learning
experiences than Rider Ed.
If you have heard me speak or read my word you often hear me refer to
the division as the “LIFE
Training Division” because I firmly believe that the skills you learn
can be used in all works through life not just with
GWRRA.
Wow, take advantage of the world class
Rider Education,
MFA and LTD courses when
ever available.
GWRRA is the envy of many other motorcycle organizations.
DON’T MONKEY with
Rider
Education
|
|
| |
GWRRA
Iowa Rider Education
– q
NOTES
----
January 1, 2010
Joe and Judy
Pirillo – Iowa Senior District Educators
“Safety is for Life”
Wishing
you a Blessed New Year… and may your favorite teams win
and, if they have already played, then we hope they won.
Once that is done we can start to take a good honest look at
what the New Year will bring,
What have you resolved for 2010?
Congratulations…
to John Olenick for being appointed Assistant Iowa District Educator.
John and Sue have done some tremendous work in Iowa Chapter E.
Iowa E has the largest number of Level IV’s active in the REP.
When you do the work they do, then you will know what a great
work ethic they have.
John’s computer and REP knowledge has been tapped to help keep our REP
Levels data base up to date.
This can not be done without
your help.
Each chapter was sent the current status of each member in the
Iowa District. Please help
us get the Data Base up to date by reviewing each member’s status and
updating any deficiencies.
Motorcycle
Safety Forum… will be held on
April 30, 2010 at the Scheman
Building in Ames, Iowa.
Start making plans to join motorcycle enthusiasts from all
around the state and beyond.
This year’s theme will be “Life Long Learning”.
It is being billed one of the best we have had.
So get your group together and we will meet you in
Ames.
Hmmm, sounds a lot like “meet you in the middle”.
Safety
in 2010… brings us Safety Weekend to be held in Ankeny, Iowa
on May 7 and 8. You will
want to reserve you spot early.
Plans are being formulated to make this a
FUN event where you can
pick up some
KNOWLEDGE with some
FRIENDS. Register as
soon as you see the flyer.
Ask
your chapter “ru1”… we want everyone in the Iowa
District to make a commitment to safety.
What a great way to welcome our GWRRA Family to
Iowa.
July will be here sooner than you think.
Be sure we have the greatest
Level I REP participation that we can.
100% is a worthy goal but only
you can help us achieve this
goal.
qTIP… don’t let someone else do it.
Don’t just complain or kibitz and “Don’t Monkey with Rider
Education”. It’s up to
YOU! “ru1”???
DON’T MONKEY with
Rider
Education
|
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GWRRA
Iowa Rider Education
– q
NOTES
----
December 1, 2009
Joe and Judy
Pirillo – Iowa Senior District Educators
“Safety is for Life”
Merry Christmas… to all and hope that you get all the
safety chrome that you asked for this year.
If not, keep the unfulfilled list for “Christmas in July” when we all “Meet in the Middle” in Des Moines where I am sure
you will be able to complete that list. This is the month for making
lists and checking them twice so check “picking up some motorcycle
knowledge” three times and
move it to the top of your list!
Destination
Iowa…
is a great success and the winner is the Iowa District due to your
participation. All
Iowa
chapters submitted destinations located in The Iowa District.
The list is being summarized and will be sent to appropriate
people for dissemination to our entire
GWRRA Family, especially those who will enjoy seeing Iowa on their way to Wing Ding in Des Moines in 2010.
Each of you are winners in the
Iowa District
Ru1?... if not get the form filled out and sent in to
join others in the Iowa District with their participation in the Rider
Education Program. Are you
asking all your fellow GWRRA
participant “ru1?”, if not start asking and keep asking until everyone
in the Iowa District has made the “Commitment
to Safety”. This is a
goal that will be great to share with all the
GWRRA visitors we will have
in July 2010. So what is
your answer to “ru1” yet?
Join others… as they celebrate the season within their
Chapter. There is a lot of
FUN to be had out there but you need to participate to enjoy all
your GWRRA friends.
Make it a personal goal to visit as many Iowa Chapters as you
can during this festive season.
qTIP… don’t put
off until tomorrow what knowledge you can pick up today
DOWN THE ROAD I GO
with
Rider
Education
|
|
| |
GWRRA
Iowa Rider Education
– q
NOTES
----
November 1, 2009
Joe and Judy
Pirillo – Iowa Senior District Educators
“Safety is for Life”
Discover Iowa…
our Iowa
list is growing thanks to the help of several Chapters.
It is not too late; get your Iowa Destinations in so our fellow
GWRRA family of riders will
enjoy visiting destinations favored by the local Iowa riders.
Be sure to get your list in as soon as possible. By November 15?????
Can your Chapter family answer “IM1” yet…
if not we have some time to work on this.
With leadership we will get everyone in the Iowa District to
make the “Safety by Commitment” their standard.
Other than being as safe as we can be, what’s better than
FREE!
Let everyone know, “UR1”.
November 1… brings us nine
days closer to the Marine Corps
birthday. Besides joining
me in that celebration, how about picking up some additional knowledge
while having FUN with you
fellow Chapter Family.
Have you scheduled a learning experience for your home chapter?
Don’t keep it a secret make sure you let everyone in the Iowa
District know of your plans.
What can you do?
Schedule a MFA class, rider and/or co rider seminar, just to name two.
Want more learning ideas then check out the Rider Education
page at GWRRA.org.
RU current… within your
level of the REP?
If not, winter could be a great time to pick up some of the
courses or seminars you need to get current.
There is absolutely no cost to
GWRRA to update your
information. With all the
volunteers, you should be able to pick up most of what you need at no
cost. There might be a
cost associated with a qualified first aid course and there might be a
cost related to a riding course.
I am sure this investment is well worth your time and money.
qTIP…
co-riders are the bravest
participants in GWRRA.
There are many co-riders who sit behind a rider who has either
never taken any rider course or hasn’t for more than 5 years.
Co-riders, remember that when you jump on behind that rider.
Also don’t forget to keep up your own knowledge as you never
know when it might be needed.
Take responsibility… take
some seminars that will help you and all you ride with.
Don’t wait for someone else to lead, get your own knowledge up
to speed so when you hit the road in the spring you are truly ready.
Remember one of the things we all have in common is that we are
getting older. You younger
folks need to keep up your training so that you too can become an
elder rider.
REP Data Base… almost up
to date. John Olenick is
helping to get the Iowa District
REP Data Base updated.
There will be occasions when John and I need your help.
Please work with us so that we can make the
Iowa
REP Data Base the best it can be.
There may be times you see John out and about the
Iowa District and John
always has his lap top with him and can help get your information up
to date. Let’s get this
done before the end of the year.
Thanks for your cooperation and
help.
DOWN
THE ROAD I GO
with
Rider
Education
|
|
| |
GWRRA
Iowa Rider Education
– q
NOTES
----
October 1, 2009
Joe and Judy
Pirillo – Iowa Senior District Educators
“Safety is for Life”
Riding
season coming to an end… yes, there is a chill in the
air but there still is some great riding days ahead of us.
Remember to dress for the weather and keep in mind that the
co-rider is 10 to 20 degrees
cooler than the rider.
As the season gets even shorted
be aware of a light frost on the road surfaces as they can be an
unwelcomed event.
Destination
Iowa… thanks to our some of our
Iowa Chapters, we are starting to develop a great list of destinations
for all those Gold Wingers coming to
Iowa
next July. Didn’t get your
list together? Don’t
worry; the list will remain open until
November 15, 2009?
What should you do to find out if your Chapter gives the most
riding destinations in Iowa?
Email the Iowa
destinations and locations to the Iowa District Educator and the list
will be maintained. Once
completed it will give you some great places to ride in the future.
We are looking for great roads for our
GWRRA visitors to explore while here in our state.
Let’s ‘Get R Done’
and get your list in. An
Excel format makes it easier to
tabulate the Chapter that comes up with the most.
Don’t forget your favorite routes too.
Winter
in Iowa…
is a great time to catch up on some learning opportunities.
Schedule a First Aid Course, co-rider Seminar or other
GWRRA Seminars.
Looking for ideas?
Take a few miniutes and visit the
GWRRA National Rider
Education site and see what is available.
Once you have decided what opportunities you wish to offer your
Chapter Family let us know and we will be able to help you get the
learning experience to your Chapter.
Take the first step by wanting it, then decide exactly what you
want, organize it, set the date, promote it (and not just to your home
Chapter), and then it becomes simple,
PARTICIPATION = FUN!!!
RU1…
in the next few months get your entire
GWRRA Chapter family
evolved with the Rider Education Program by getting them signed up as
a Level I.
Level I is referred
to as “Safe Miles” and is
simply “Safety by Commitment”.
It means just what it says and that is to strive to operate
your motorcycle in the safest way you can at all times.
There is no money required and the
Level I never needs to be
renewed. If you want to
display a Level I patch on your vest they are available for purchase.
So at each Chapter event over the next several months be sure
to ask ‘RU1’ and keep
asking until everyone in the Iowa District answers yes ‘IM1’. The Iowa District
Goal is to have 100% participation in the REP by having all active
Chapter participants enrolled at least as a
Level I by June 1, 2010.
qTIP… “Safety
by Commitment” is a goal that we should already have and only
complete the paperwork to let everyone else know… “RU1”
Yet???
DOWN
THE ROAD I GO
with
Rider
Education
|
|
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GWRRA
Iowa Rider Education
– q
NOTES
----
September 1, 2009
Joe and Judy
Pirillo – Iowa Senior District Educators
“Safety is for Life”
Pirates
on the river… are heading to the Region E Rally soon!
If you want to have a good time
be sure to join in all the FUN
that is being planned by your Region Staff.
It promises to be a great time.
Who will come as Black Beard?
Will someone lose their hair?
Could it be you?
Hope to see you on the high seas.
Iowa
Rider Education theme… announced at this year’s
District Rally. The Rider
Education Theme for 2009 will be
Don’t Monkey with Rider
Education. We will
be working hard in the Iowa District during 2010 to move as many of
our GWRRA family through
the Rider Education Program (REP).
It will be a GOAL to have every participant in the Iowa District at least a Level
I when we greet visitors from all corners of the
GWRRA world to Des Moines,
Iowa for
Wing Ding 32. Let’s
starting working on the REP
in YOUR chapter.
Our
REP travels begin with Level I… which is
Safety by Commitment.
That’s it, a commitment made by each of our
GWRRA family members to
strive to be safe while riding.
A form needs to be completed and submitted, but that’s it-- NO
money and NO need to renew.
It is as simple as that so let’s get working and just remember
Don’t Monkey with Rider Education...
FROM
THE GWRRA.ORG WEB SITE:
Level I of the Rider Education Program is also referred to as
Safe Miles. It
represents the commitment of the Rider and/or the Co-Rider to practice
safe motorcycle operation whenever they operate their motorcycle.
Safety is a state of mind which can only be attained through total
commitment. Every
successful accomplishment begins with a commitment to reach the
intended objective. This
is true of the Rider Education Program and includes a promise to
learn for the sake of Rider,
Co-Rider, friends and family, and others on the road.
Though there is no mileage
requirement to enter Level I, the commitment to safe riding is tracked
by the number of accident free miles since joining
GWRRA. Accident free
miles are accumulated in 5,000 mile increments and may be updated at
yearly intervals. Requirement: Verbal commitment to ride safely at all
times.
No cost to sign up.
qTIP… a
commitment to safety is a good thing and we all need to encourage
our GWRRA family members to
get involved. You are each
challenged to help make the Iowa District a leader in Rider Education.
This commitment begins with us.
We can share the benefits of the REP at each and every
GWRRA function.
If your fellow member knows you believe in making a Commitment
to Safety they will too.
Lead by example and share the word.
Let’s go Ape with this GOAL.
Start at your next chapter gathering.
Keep it what it is, good for us and simple.
After you complete the
attached Level I application,
save it under your name and submit.
Now print a blank form, make 10 copies and take them to your
chapter gatherings and encourage others to make a
Commitment to Safety and they too can become involved
with the REP.
DOWN
THE ROAD I GO
with
Rider
Education
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|
| |
GWRRA
Iowa Rider Education
– q
NOTES
----
August 1, 2009
Joe and Judy
Pirillo – Iowa Senior District Educators
“Safety is for Life”
Join
me… in THANKING
Mark Frank who did a great job helping promote rider education in Iowa
S and throughout the Iowa District.
Mark will not be going far and plans to be around to help out
his local Chapter as well as the Iowa District.
How about a big
THAN YOU to
Mark Frank of Iowa S.
New
educators… are taking over in northwest Iowa.
Yes, we have a “NEW”
educator in Iowa S.
Jodie Waddell will
join us as the new Chapter educator.
So please welcome Ed New
and Jodie Waddell to the
educator ranks. They will
be a great addition.
Come
Fly with Us… to
Ames
Iowa August 6 to 8 and join the
FUN while participating
with some FRIENDS.
Come try your hand at making a paper airplane and seeing what
you can make it do. You
can fly for
distance, try
stunt flying,
landing on an aircraft carrier,
or just make the
best looking plane.
What’s in it for you? You may win a power aircraft or you may be told
to just go fly a kite.
There are many more activities planed for your enjoyment at the Iowa
District’s Fly In. Come
join the fun in Ames.
Headlight
modulators etiquette… requires some thought.
It’s great to use around busy city roads where a lot of drivers
are not paying attention.
The modulator will get their attention and, let’s face it; it is a see
and be seen world we ride around in.
When riding in a group if you aren’t the lead bike, you may
want to shut your modulator off so you won’t distract the rider in
front of you. As you
approach busy intersections and are planning a turn, you may want to
turn it off so other road users aren’t confused about your intentions.
It is a great add on but be sure to be considerate of others
and use it to your advantage.
LEFT
Track or RIGHT Track… let the situation dictate.
I would suggest that the right track be considered when
traveling on a two lane road with traffic coming toward you.
When vehicles are behind a vehicle coming toward you, there is
a chance the following vehicles may want to pass.
The driver will nudge out to take a peak to see if he is clear
to pass. If you are in the
left track, that driver will not see you as quickly as he would if you
were in the right rack. If
you are riding in a group under the same situation, the lead bike may
want to be in the right track as to be
seen sooner. This is food
for thought and each rider will ride in the safest manner they can.
There will be times when the right track is your best lane
position. Be aware and
ride aware.
qTIP… be sure to share your riding tips with others
in your Chapter Family as it may be a technique they had not thought
of until you mentioned it.
Rider’s technique is just that, so use the ones you agree with and
share your thoughts with others.
We are all learning and never get to the point where we know
all there is to riding.
WE ARE FRIENDS FOR FUN, SAFETY
AND KNOWLEDGE.
DOWN
THE ROAD I GO
with
Rider
Education
|
|
| |
GWRRA
Iowa Rider Education
– q
NOTES
----
July 1, 2009
Joe and Judy
Pirillo – Iowa Senior District Educators
“Safety is for Life”
Wing Ding is almost here… just a short ride to Tulsa, OK to
join in on all the opportunities made available to our
GWRRA Family. Wing Ding
is the greatest place to get together with some
FRIENDS and have FUN
while riding SAFE and
gaining some KNOWLEDGE.
This is an opportunity to discover some facts about
Route 66.
Come and join us having
FUN in Tulsa.
See you there. We
are on our way.
Book your flight… and join the
Iowa District from August 6
to 8 in Ames,
Iowa.
The security check is not so bad at this rally but you will be
required to have some FUN with FRIENDS.
Board your Wing and FLY (ride safely) right to the Rally sight.
This one will be one to remember.
Don’t forget your Chapter’s Motorcycle plane!
Paper
Planes… will abound at the
Iowa District Rally.
Practice making a paper airplane that can fly the longest
distance, do the best aerobatics, or is just the best looking.
There will be prizes for the first two places in each of the
three categories. Rules
are simple. The planes for
competition will need to be made at the rally with the paper provided.
The winners will be determined by applause by your fellow
GWRRA Family members.
This one WILL be FUN.
Start practicing now to get the best results at the rally
airport. Oh by the way,
the planes will have to be flying safely!
Pirates
on the river???
Yes, right on the river separating Iowa
and Illinois.
Har, don your eye patches, take your scurvy medicine, and bring
yourself and mate of your choice to Moline, IL
on September 5 and 6.
Rumor has it you can come on your Wing or arrive by boat the choice is
yours. Pirate Flags, Boat
Races, Treasure Chests, Baking, Tattoos (want to see this one), best
dressed pirates, and a bike show.
Filled with activities for your Relaxation and
FUN.
Yes, you can wear your hook and peg leg.
Don’t wait to be shanghaied, plan on being at this one.
qTIP… Bright Colors Get
You Noticed!!!
The brighter the clothes you wear, the better people can see
you. Attaching reflective tape on your riding clothes will make it
easier for drivers of other vehicles to see you, especially when it
gets dark. And the better you can be seen by others, the better chance
you have of avoiding an accident.
RIDE PROUD… DRESS LOUD!
DOWN THE ROAD I GO
with
Rider
Education
|
|
| |
GWRRA
Iowa Rider Education
– q
NOTES
----
June 1, 2009
Joe and Judy
Pirillo – Iowa Senior District Educators
“Safety is for Life”
Governor
signs Proclamation…
May is Motorcycle Safety
Month and many Chapters got their local Mayors and city councils
to sign Proclamations. The
Iowa District once again got a Proclamations signed by the governor
and passed by both houses.
Be sure to thank your legislators for their support.
June 1 is a good time to start planning what your chapter
family will do next MAY to recognize
May 2010 as
Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.
2009
Safety Weekend a success… hope you were able to join us
this year we had a great time learning and everyone learned something
during the weekend. Safety
is very dear to our hearts and hope that you let safety get under your
skin too. Work on
2010 Safety Weekend
begins today. You can mark
your calendars now for the May 7 and 8, 2010.
Be sure to join us next
year.
New
Level IV in North West Iowa… be sure to join us in
congratulating Mark Frank of
Iowa S on becoming the Iowa District’s newest
Level IV.
Mark is the Chapter Educator for Iowa S
and rides the talk.
Iowa S is one of the Iowa Districts smaller chapters but have a
great pride in riding long and riding safe.
If you get a chance to pay them a visit it would be well worth
your time. It is said the
Iowa S has the best Christmas party in the Iowa District.
Join us and we will see
you in December in the Iowa
North land.
New
Chapter Director…
Iowa I has a new
Chapter Educator. He is
Robert Boots.
Robert tells me that he was asked because he believes in safety
and lives it as he is a police officer.
It is always nice to have the Law Enforcement with us to help
interpret many of the laws that are on the books.
Join in and congratulate
Iowa I for a great selection to the Chapter Educator position.
qTIP… We all tend to get a little comfortable in
our lives and the way we ride.
First and most important, don’t get too comfortable with the
way you ride as we can all become better riders.
Don’t accept being just a member, you too may have some things
that you can share with your local Chapter Family.
Step up and get involved or reinvolved with your Chapter.
The GWRRA trail to
FUN is directly a result with your
PARTICIPATION. First, if
you don’t want to step up don’t complain; second and most important,
PARTICIPATE in all of what
your CHAPTER, DISTRICT, REGION,
and NATIONAL has to offer
and be sure to let your fellow
GWRRA Family members know what is going on.
They may wish to
PARTICIPATE even if you choose not too.
Get
INVOLVED and PARTICIPATE.
DOWN
THE ROAD I GO
with
Rider
Education
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GWRRA
Iowa Rider Education
– q
NOTES
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May
1, 2009
Joe and Judy
Pirillo – Iowa Senior District Educators
“Safety is for Life”
Our
family got smaller… Duane Rippel was a great fiend and
he will be missed. His
unique, quiet leadership made him
FUN to work with.
Duane did not talk about others and was always there to help
and give his support to his fellow
GWRRA family members. He
will surely be missed, especially for his support of all
GWRRA activities especially
Rider Education.
Thanks, Duane, for allowing us to be your
FRIENDS.
Safety
Weekend is here… hope you took advantage of this
opportunity. If you were
unable to make it, be sure to get out and do some practicing before
heading down the road. Do
keep in mind that 74% of
the crashes in the state of Iowa were due to
our driving negligence.
Be aware and stay alive.
MAY…
brings with it Motorcycle
Safety Awareness Month.
What did you and or your chapter family plan to do to help
others become aware of our presence on the roads?
Get Proclamations signed, be in a parade, have a window wash,
have and park :& greet or mall show, let your neighbor know we are out
on our bikes. Get the word
out. Yes, get
MAD and just due it.
The
skies will be filled… with paper air planes during our
upcoming District Rally.
Be sure to practice and we will have a high flying time in August.
Rules will be coming out in the very near future.
This one will be FUN but keep in mind you have to
PARTICIPATE with your GWRRA
FRIENDS. How high will
you FLY?
Wing
Ding… is drawing near and that is not just in time but
also in distance. If you
have never been in Tulsa, it will be a GREAT
time watching all the cowboys and girls.
Let’s see if we can make the
Iowa District the largest
District in attendance in Tulsa.
By the by, there are some really great roads to travel to get
to Tulsa including
Route 66.
So get your kicks and
join us in our trek to Tulsa.
qTIP… be sure to let your fellow
GWRRA Family members know
what you think of them, before you lose the chance.
We feel very fortunate that we were able to share some personal
feeling direct to Duane.
Don’t lose you chance, give someone a meaningful hug.
DOWN
THE ROAD I GO
with
Rider
Education
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GWRRA
Iowa Rider Education
– q
NOTES
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April 1, 2009
Joe and Judy
Pirillo – Iowa Senior District Educators
“Safety is for Life”
No
fooling… Iowa
District Safety Weekend will be next month on May 8 and 9.
This is a good opportunity to meet all your knowledge
enhancement needs in one spot.
Take an ERC or TRC, one or two up, and get those riding
abilities up to par. It is
also a good time to take a First Aid course in case an emergency
situation arises whether for riding, at work or a family function.
There are also various seminars offered that you will find of
good use as in a Road Captain’s course.
If you need a registration form let us know and we will get one
to you.
Help
needed at Wing Ding… With Wing Ding fast approaching we
are looking for volunteers who can give some time to help with all the
Rider Education activities.
If you are attending Wing Ding consider volunteering to help
with range activities, at the education booth, and various other
seminars at Wing Ding in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
When we help out, there are great rewards in learning by
sharing with others. If
you can help out let me know by email and give me your name and
membership number. If you
are a Seminar Presenter and want to help, give me your
GWRRA Seminar Instructor
number as well. Remember
the Iowa District formula,
PARTICIPATION = FUN.
Have
you booked your flight… you can get First Class
treatment by getting your registration to the
District Rally in as early
as you possible. There are
some great seats available and things are shaping up to make this a
FUN flight around Ames, Iowa
on August 6-8. Let’s all
catch that early flight.
qTIP… remember when you used to make paper airplanes
during English or Math class?
Well, you may want to practice making a plane that will FLY at
the District Rally. Take
up this challenge to see how far you can get your plane to fly.
Also make one that can do
various stunts while in flight.
Oh yes, you can make one for just looks too.
Watch future qNOTES for additional information
regarding this
PAPER AIRPLANE CHALLENGE.
DOWN
THE ROAD I GO
with
Rider
Education
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GWRRA
Iowa Rider Education
–
q
NOTES
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March 1, 2009
Joe and Judy Pirillo –
Iowa Senior District Educators
“Safety is for Life”
Iowa Motorcycle
Safety Forum… on March 13, 2009 at the Marriott in Cedar
Rapids will be the sixth annual Iowa Motorcycle Safety Forum.
This is your chance to stay abreast of what is happening in the state of
Iowa related to Motorcycle Safety. Not only do you hear what is going on,
but you can share your thoughts with those that work on the Governor’s
Motorcycle Safety Taskforce. Hope to see you there.
The Iowa
Fantastic Four… will be at this year’s Iowa Motorcycle safety
Forum giving a presentation titled “2 = Group”. Give that some
thought and you quickly see that two people on one bike do equal a group of
two. Iowa’s “Fantastic Four” are Kenton and Char Cole; John and Sue
Olenick; Mike and Linda Huppenbauer; Stuart ‘Wally’ and Jan Wallace. What a
group.
Window Wash 2009… has your
Chapter talked with one of Iowa’s Dynamic Duo for this year’s
event? As a MAD Project, Iowa MAD is organizing two hour spots at any rest
stop located in Iowa to wash other vehicle windshields. It takes water,
squeegees, elbow grease, parking your bikes to be noticeable, and two hours
of your time. No rest stop close to you? No Problem, maybe you can hold
such an event at the closest Wal-Mart but be sure to get permission first.
Still stuck on the identity of the Iowa Dynamic Duo? If you would like to
know more about this MAD project, contact Marlene Klein or
Dianne Olson both of Iowa S. Let’s get out there, clean some
windows and support this MAD Project.
Youngest Level IV RIDER… at
17 years old, Caleb Borseth was presented his Level IV
patch at Iowa E’s Sweetheart Weekend. Caleb is the youngest RIDER in
Region E to have attained this honor. He may even be the youngest RIDER
in all of GWRRA. Caleb has been around motorcycles as long as a lot
of us have been riding. Lonnie and Diane Borseth made sure that Caleb was
given every opportunity to share in this family’s riding. Caleb will tell
you all the FUN he has had with FRIENDS while gaining
SAFETY and KNOWLEDGE. Caleb has been seen at many GWRRA
functions spanning 17 states. Join this young rider in the pursuit of
excellence in safe and informed riding and start you travel to the highest
level in the GWRRA Rider Education Program. Join him at Level IV.
Another Survivor
Award… given to Diane Borseth of Iowa O. Yes, this is
Caleb’s biker mama. Diane shared with all those present at the presentation
how, after being struck from behind by a fellow rider, she was able to use
her riding skills to keep her bike upright. Diane is also quick to point
out that she used the skills she learned from taking an Experienced Rider
Course at one of Iowa’s Safety Weekend. I bet Lonnie is proud of
both of these fellow riders.
qTIP… plan to attend the Iowa District’s Fifth Annual
Safety Weekend, May 8 and 9, 2009 in Ankeny, Iowa. Join Caleb
Borseth, Region E’s youngest rider on his journey through the
GWRRA Rider Education Program. Also keep in mind as with Diane Borseth
you never know when your riding skills will be needed. Get your
Registration Form mailed this week.
DOWN THE ROAD I
GO
with
Rider
Education |
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GWRRA
Iowa Rider Education
–
q
NOTES
----
February 1, 2009
Joe and Judy Pirillo –
Iowa Senior District Educators
“Safety is for Life”
Iowa F subsidizes shirts…
participants of Iowa F pay $5 for each MAD Shirt and the Chapter pays
$8. What a great way to help out the local members as well as the
Region E MAD Project Educate. We are in rough economic times and
not every Chapter can do as Iowa F but maybe the members could try to get a
local sponsor or their local Honda dealer to help.
Put winter months to good use…
with gaining valuable knowledge that can be used not only with Iowa’s
journey to higher levels but also while out on the byways having FUN
with our FRIENDS. Some KNOWLEDGE enhancement seminars that we
can schedule for our Chapter Family are listed as follows:
- First Aid and CPR;
this knowledge can be used for situations other than motorcycling.
- Co-Rider Seminar;
RIDERS you too should attend this one.
- Trailering Seminar;
good for those considering pulling a trailer behind their bike.
- Motorcycling for
Matured Riders; don’t discount this one as we are all getting
older.
- Motorcycle Crash
Scene Response; you will learn information valuable at ANY
crash scene.
- Team Riding Seminar;
CO-RIDERS you too should attend this one.
- Road Captain Course;
the riding part should be scheduled during riding season.
How can seminars be scheduled...
start with your Chapter Educator who can be a great source. If any Chapter
Educator or Chapter needs help with scheduling any of these seminars or
courses let you District Educators know and see if one can be scheduled.
The first step is to make the decision that you want to share the
word to your fellow members as we never know when the knowledge will be
needed so let’s be sure we are ready. Any seminars scheduled need to be
reported to the District Educator along with a list of participants. Be
sure to get your scheduled seminar on the District calendar so your GWRRA
Family can have an opportunity to join some FRIENDS and have some
FUN while picking up some KNOWLEDGE.
The thought of a presentation scares me…
have individual Chapter participants shared what they know? What could be
easier than to put something together that would be FUN to do. Just
think they would be talking about something we love! Utilize your greatest
asset, your Chapter Family.
qTIP… Share
your winter time seminars with other Chapters… by letting the other District
participants know the date and time of your seminars. Keep in mind other
Chapter participants may want to take advantage of what your Chapter is
doing. Don’t keep your Chapter Knowledge Enhancement a secret. Let others
know.
DOWN THE ROAD I GO
with
Rider
Education
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GWRRA
Iowa Rider Education
–
q
NOTES
----
January 1, 2009
Joe and Judy Pirillo –
Iowa Senior District Educators
“Safety is for Life”
The Iowa Dynamic Duo… will be
working to drive Iowa MAD. Please join us in welcoming Marlene
and Diane of Iowa S as the Iowa Distinct Motor Awareness
Division team. They promise not to drive you all too MAD. Let’s
help them move the Iowa District to be the leaders in the Region
communicating to all other road users that are there.
Dennis and Karen English… of
Iowa O are the most current recipients of the Survivor Award. They
were involved with a crash this past riding season and as most GWRRA
Riders had their personal protective gear (PPG) in the proper place, on
them. We are very happy they survived with very minor injuries even though
the bike was totaled. This should be a reminder to all of us to always wear
our (PPG) personal protective gear. It is never known when it will be
needed.
Congratulations to Richard and Sally
Lindgren… of Iowa E as the most current members of the Level
IVs in the Iowa District. Iowa E has shown the way for the Iowa District to
achieve Chapter participation in the GWRRA REP. Let’s join them in
the pursuit of safe riding and Rider Education by example,
What can be done to enlighten OTHER USERS…
to the fact that there are others out on the roads that share the roads with
them? We can educate people as to different types of bikes as well as why
we ride the way we do. Visit and make presentations to pre, elementary,
middle, and high SCHOOLS. Don’t forget all the civic organization. They
are always looking for guest speakers. Let’s get MAD in Iowa!
CONSPICUITY… let’s not forget
to be seen. What can we do to make sure we are seen? Modulating head lamps
are a great way to draw attention to your bike but don’t forget to have them
off when in a group as it could be a distraction to the rider in front of
you. Your group can determine who leaves their modulators on and those that
do not. This will make a great discussion for a gathering.
qTIP…
there is power with numbers. Have a brain storming gathering to formulate
presentation to the public, general gathering presentations and planning how
and what will be shared with all those other users. Let’s all go MAD
in the Iowa District along with our very own
Dynamic Duo.
DOWN THE ROAD I GO
with
Rider
Education
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