Repatriating

Well, I never thought that I’d be saying that so soon.  Our adventure in Kalifornia is being abbreviated and is coming to a fast end.  Real fast.  Like, we’ll be gone in a month!

What brought all this about?  Lots of things.  Some of you know that Jennifer works for General Motors, and that we’re out here because she was assigned to the GM – Toyota Joint venture plant (NUMMI) here in Kali for a two year hitch.  This is the training ground for the best, brightest, and upwardly mobile GM folks.  Of course with the GM bankruptcy and Obama administration direction, lots of things “happened” at GM.  One fall out was the elimination of the Pontiac brand.  One of the vehicles that are made at the NUMMI plant is the Vibe-alicious Pontiac Vibe.  Since no more Vibes will be made, there’s no reason for a GM presence at the plant.  With no reason for a GM presence, there was no need to be involved in a joint venture with Toyota, so end of GM story here.  And end of the GM personnel’s here jobs.  Talk about a group of folks (10) scrambling to find jobs in a company that is shedding them faster than furry dog sheds in summer.  It was a pretty stressful time for most of us.  Of course this all began like a month ago.  Luckily, Jenn was asked to fill an equal position in the “New GM” back in Detroit, so we’re back on the relocation band wagon.  I love this girl, but we’ve moved four times in the past five years.  And I mean relocate, not just move.  We keep Allied Van Lines in business!    I’ve never been involved in the buying and selling of so many houses in short periods of time in my life.  I feel like we live in an episode of House Hunters!

But it’s all good, so on to the fun stuff!

Everyone take a seat, because I’m going to drop a bomb on ya’ll.  Ready?  I’m really going to miss living in Kalifornia.  Jenn drank the Kool-aid right from the get go.  I, being more enlightened in the social, political, and economic aspects of living here, was not fooled by the fabulous weather, never ending list of great places to go and things to do.  I understood the personal cost of living in the belly of the liberal beast and how it affects your personal freedom.  In a lot of ways, it really sucks to live out here.  I won’t go into details, but trust me, they got you coming and going.  But in a lot of other aspects, this is one of the most amazing, intriguing places to live.  I would think that forty years ago, and more, this was as good as it gets.  If not, why were there so many people out here?  If you’ve never been, or have not had time to really spend time in Kali, you probably would not get it.  I get it.  Unfortunately, my timing to live out here did not jive with my personal beliefs, convictions, whatever.  I’m still rather feisty, and not ready to accept certain things.  I have my principles damn-it and I’m sticking to them.  Maybe when I get a little older and I’m tired of fighting, I’ll give in and take a sip.

So what say we come up with a list of what I’ll miss and won’t miss of the great state of Kalifornia.

Miss	Won’t miss
Great weather all year	Horrendous Traffic
Great National and State parks	Over the top anti-gun laws
Living in wine country	10 percent sales tax
Hummingbirds in the back yard	Workers that can’t speak English
NorCal Practical Precision Rifle Club	Recycle Nazis
Tri-tip	Vehicle smog laws
Mountains all around us	Highest state taxes in the US
Real Mexican food everywhere	Highest gas prices in the US
Real sushi almost everywhere	Driving on crazy twisty roads
Hawks and eagles all around	Cutting grass all year long
The ocean	Being far away from family
Redwoods	Flights east that take all day
Our great house	Tripping over a Prius at every turn
All the good folks I’ve met	Not being able to find good veal
Rush Limbaugh on at 9 AM	Spare the air nights
Good avocados all year	Pancho Villa
Cowboy/ranch atmosphere	Over the top politicians
Rubicon Trail	Cost of Kalifornia living in general
The Safeway	Girls with 25 earrings in one ear
The Bev Mo	Girls with 25 earrings in their nose
No mosquitoes	Guys with 25 earrings in their nose
Peete’s coffee
Lizards in the backyard
Bushy Peak

Hmmmmm…  Looks like the misses out number the “won’t misses”.  As I said, there is a lot to like out here.  My totally un-scientific sampling is coming off the top of my head.  Believe me, there are lots of good reasons to stay away from Kali.  If you have money and can wrap your head around what it takes to live here, go for it. If not, then it’s a done deal.  It’s not for you. At any rate, it’s been a great experience.  I’m thinking we’ll be back to live out our later years (if Jenn has anything to say about it).

So, this means I’m closing out this expatriate’s blog, since the blog’s relevance has run its course.  I’ll keep it alive until I can figure out have to capture it all, in a form that I approve of.  I’ve had a ton of fun writing about what we’ve been up to out here.  I dig writing, so I may come up with something to keep that flowing.  The next time you hear from me, I will no longer be an Expatriate in Kalifornia.

Good luck to all.

My Trip to the Free USA

Last week I participated in the National Trophy Rifle Matches.  The matches are held at Camp Perry, near Port Clinton, Ohio.  Once I arrived in Camp Perry, I immediately understood what it meant to be in the “Free USA” as opposed the quasi socialist People’s Republic of Kalifornia.  How did I come to that conclusion?  Easy.  1200 plus participants, all walking around with an “Assault Weapon” (as decreed and banned by the state of Kalifornia) slung over their shoulder.  And guess what?  There was not one mass killing.  Not one place of business was held up.  Not one person was robbed.  In fact, it was one of the safest places I’ve been to all year.

How can this be Ed?  “Certainly the elected officials in Kalifornia must know something that we don’t”, you ask.  They know something alright.  They know if they take away your capability to defend and protect yourself, you become dependent on the state.  Hence they retain the power over you.  It’s not about protecting you from gang bangers.  So why would the nationals be so safe, if we’re all running around with evil weapons?  Simple.  Who in their right mind would come in there, or if you’re already there, and try to start some mayhem?  I mean come on!  No going off the deep end and trying some mischief there.  Not with over 1200 armed citizens from 14 to 70.  It’s the perfect example of why people behave in an armed society.  Everyone has the capability to defend themselves and their property.  Once you take that away, the dirt bags move in.

The Scene

Camp Perry is quite a unique place.  The Nationals have been held there for over 100 years.  Someone asked me if the site of the event moved around.  There is really no other facility that I’m aware of that is capable of supporting an event of this magnitude.  An Ohio National Guard training site, there are approximately 240 firing points on two know distance rifle ranges.  That’s a lot of shooters, considering during the individual matches, there are 6 shooters that are assigned to each point.

For those that compete in the Service rifle category of Highpower rifle competition, this is a trip to the holy land.  If you’re searching for the grail, it’s there.  There is a certain charm about the place.  It’s not the most up to date facility.  In fact, some might consider it kinda dumpy in places.  But once you’re been, you WILL want to return.  Everyone should experience the atmosphere and camaraderie that comes from competing and staying at “Perry”.  I’ve been competing for 14 years now.  I never get over the feeling when I drive in the gate.  You can check out some photos here.

One of the “experiences” folks should have is to stay on post, and live in the “huts”.  During WWII, Camp Perry was used as a POW camp, housing German and Italian prisoners.  Wooden 14 foot square structures (huts) were built in rows and rows.  4 beds to a hut.  Single light on the ceiling in the center, 3 windows and a door, on a concrete floor.  Spartan, but efficient.  Community latrine and bath house.  With no more prisoners to house after the war, the huts became the perfect billeting for competitors at the Nationals.  I’m assuming that after the war, the accommodations were a little more up to date then when I started staying there.  By that time, they had deteriorated pretty badly.  But it was home for the duration, and you were staying right in the middle of it all.  Folks proudly declared their allegiance to hut living, actually seeking them out as opposed to more comfortable digs.  I’m not that adventurous.  I considered it akin to living in a garage with four of your buddies.  And not the fancy, attached, heated one either.  Rifle shooters were lucky as the pistol and smallbore (.22) phases of the Nationals are before rifle.  Those guys got to clean out a years worth of insect and rodent guests that would baby sit the huts for the year between the annual competitions.  We generally just prayed for one that had screens in the windows, and the roof didn’t leak!  More than one set of hut dwellers has come home to a flood during or after a rainstorm.  But it’s all part of the experience, and most always make the best of it, taking it all in good fun.  I avoided them like the plague.

Huts

Other accommodations available to competitors were the military barracks, and something called the modules.  The modules are a complex of small motel like buildings, housing individual rooms with two beds, a real bathroom and an air conditioner.  This was like living in a palace compared to a hut, and they were coveted.  There were a limited number of these available, and a good number are generally taken up by vendors, officials and support personnel that are there for the month long duration of the matches.  Even though access to a module was supposedly on a first come first served basis, it always seemed like the well connected state teams and shooters were always in them.  Even so, if you were able to get one, you were extremely pleased.  Barracks living is, well barracks living.  One big hall with 60 bunk beds, no air and a community latrine/shower.  No thanks.  Ever hear a room with 120 guys sleeping?  It’s a snoring extravaganza.  The din can be deafening.  Plus, guys coming in late at night, guys that feel they need to get up at 4:00 AM, it’s brutal, and not my idea of a place to rest at night.

The Matches

I won’t get into great detail of the specifics of the matches, so you can read about specifics of the courses of fire and rules if you wish here:

Rule Book

Day one is the President’s Match, which I consider the toughest of all.  30 rounds in three stages.  10 rounds standing at 200 yards, 10 rounds sustained fire prone at 300 yards, and ten rounds prone from 600 yards.  Did you notice no practice or sighting shots?  None in any matches during National Trophy week.  You have to know your settings, or what we call zeros or “dope” and be able to put them on the rifle with confidence.  Plus, be able to estimate the effect of the wind and how much it affects the path of the bullet so you get a center shot, or 10, your first shot.  Difficult at 600 yards.  This is why I think the President’s is the most difficult of the matches.  Your first day and you have no room for error.  If you fall too far behind early, you must be near perfect the rest of the way, or you won’t make the cut.  The top 100 competitors make what we call the President’s Hundred.  If you in that range, you’ve earned your President’s hundred badge.  It’s a big deal, because it is hard.  In the old days, the hundred got letters of recognition from the President of the United States himself.  These days you’ll be damn lucky if the President doesn’t try and take your rifle!

Day two is the National Trophy Individual.  10 rounds standing at 200,   10 round rapid fire sitting at 200, 10 round sustained fire prone at 300 and 20 rounds prone from 600 yards.  This type of match is also known as an EIC or Excellence in Competition match.  Competitors who place in this match earn points toward the Distinguished Rifleman’s badge.  One must earn 30 points to get the badge.  The number of points you get is determined by where you place in the results.  In this match, the “cut” is determined by taking the top 10 percent of shooters in the match that have not earned the badge.  That top ten percent is then divided into thirds.  The top third get 10 points and a gold medal.  The second third get eight points and a silver, and the bottom third get 6 points and a bronze.  EIC matches are typically held at state championships and of course the one held at Camp Perry.  You must have at least one 10 or 8 point award in your total of 30 to earn the badge.  No just making the cut 5 times.  You have to excel at some point.  One difference in the match held at the Nationals is that any competitor that makes the cut gets 10 points no matter where they finish.  But, if you can make the cut at Perry, you’re on your game.  It’s a very difficult range to shoot on.

The Distinguished Rifleman’s Badge

Day three.  Hearst Doubles.  A relatively new match, it follows the format of the President’s Match, except it is a two man team match, with the total of two shooter’s scores used to determine the wining team.  Top 50 teams get recognition.  My son and I have shot this match together since its introduction.  It’s a fun day for us, as we get to be together for the entire day.  In the individual matches, your squadding, or firing point and relay (the order you shoot in) is all drawn randomly.  There is no guarantee that you will be near friends or family.  This format gives us time to be together on the range.  The team matches are always the most fun, in my opinion, for that reason.  You’re with your teammates all day.

Day four.  National Trophy Team match.  Six man team firing the course of fire for the National Trophy Individual or EIC match.  Aggregate of all six scores determine place.  Again, a fun match.  It requires a lot of support for the team, since coaching shooters on the line is allowed (not allowed in individual matches) and shooters do not take turns pulling target, so dedicated target pullers are required for each team.  This is the first year I have not fired in that match.  Since moving to Kali, and not competing, I’m team-less.  Not to worry.  It gave us a good break, and we decided that not getting up at 5:00 AM to be on the line at 6 was a nice change.

Day Five.  National Infantry Trophy Team match, AKA, the rattle battle.  The shortest, but the most fun of the matches.  364 rounds, six team members, eight targets.  50 second target exposure at 600, 500, 300 and 200 yards.  Team with the most hits overall wins.  Scoring can get a little complicated, so I won’t get into details, but bottom line is it’s hit or miss, more hits are better, and hits are worth less as you get closer.  You start at 600 and work your way in.  Divided the six team members into two fire teams, divide up the ammo between the team members, and have at it.  One fire team gets 4 targets on the left, the other four targets on the right.  50 seconds of pure bliss.  And there are like 6 teams on the range at the same time. Since I’m team-less, no bliss from me.  We did however hang with friends and teams that I’ve know over the years just to watch and smell the gunpowder.  It’s just plain fun.  The link to the video shows one fire team from the Marine team.

USMC firing the NTIT

If that ain’t hog heaven, I don’t know what is.

How ironic that the winning team was the California Grizzlies Junior team!  Evil assault rifle ban and all, these kids were able to come to the free state of Ohio and with good coaching and great marksmanship, defeat the powerhouse military and established adult teams.  Take THAT, liberal beast.

National Champion Grizzlies

The Results

So you’re wondering how I did?  Actually, not bad at all.   Since my relocation to Kali last year, and having to leave my banned rifles back home, I have not been able to practice or participate in any rifle matches of this type.  Since our move is supposed to be temporary, I decided not to play the games that others do to try and compete in Kalifornia with technically “legal” rifles, and pursue other avenues of competition.  A cross training of sorts.  I picked up my rifle from its care taker back home and we came together like two long lost lovers.

My first match, the President’s, was not the best, but it gave me the opportunity to get my feel back.  Hence I was able to earn a silver medal in the National Trophy Individual Match.  Now, in this case, as you read previously, silver does not mean 2^nd place.  But, I was 105 out of 1206 competitors.  I’ll take that any day.  Aaron and I did OK in the Hearst.  Both our first stages were not the greatest; we dropped a bunch of points there.  We did OK the rest of the way back, and managed to be something like 75 or 76 out of 240 some teams.

Hearst Doubles Partner

Since we were team-less, we decide that Thursday would be a good day for some R&R at Put-in-Bay.  Put-in-Bay is a small town on an Island off the shore of Port Clinton, in Lake Erie, with a big party reputation.  Since we’re never gone there in all the years we’ve been competing, it sounded like it needed to be investigated!  Sorry folks, I wish I had some great party stories to tell, but I’m just not the crazy man I used to be.  We had a good time none the less and managed to down a couple, well a few, alright, a bunch… We don’t have to get up for rattle battle anyway.

Party in Put-In-Bay!

Overall, it was a good trip.  Aaron and I had fun, the weather was good, and we just had a good old time doing something that we do well.  It’s always good to catch up with competitors that we know from years past that we only get to see once a year.  The randomness of the squadding helps to introduce you to new people and make new friends.  It’s really like a big re-union, along with the competition.

Gunny Garza

Coming back home

Since I had a couple days back home after our return for the matches, my daughter decided to coordinate a day for the family to be together.   And the place to do that would be a Tiger game!  Fun!  Grandma, I, Aaron, Olivia and her boy friend Alex got to see the Tigers smash the Twins on a Sunday afternoon made for baseball.  Grilling back home after the game and the day was set!

La Famillia

Go Tigers

Now back in the People’s Republic, I realize how much I miss the competition, and how stupid the laws are out here that limit that type of competition.  Just does not make sense.  Hopefully, I’ll be able to get back to that sometime in the future.  Maybe I’ll cave in and go the technicality route.  Just have to see.

Stay tuned for more news as it develops.

Conquering the Rubicon

Well, guys and gals, we’re getting to experience more good Kalifornia action.  Specifically, the famous Rubicon Trail, high in the Sierra Nevada.  If you know me, or read the “About” tab, you know that Jeeps have been a big part of me.  Unfortunately, with so much going on in my busy life, four wheeling adventure has not been part of the picture for a while.

Well, I got caught up last weekend in a big way.

If you want to read about the trip please continue on.

Or go here to go right to the photo gallery of the trip

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Map of the trail

Background

The Rubicon Trail is the premier four wheel drive trail in the United States.  There may be other gnarly places to go, but the Rubicon is the most infamous of trails.  The Rubicon is actually a “county road” that runs from the city of Georgetown, CA to the city of Tahoma, CA, on the western shore of Lake Tahoe.  Originally an Indian trading route, it has evolved over the years to a stage coach route, an actual county road, and now to this mother of all four wheel drive trails.  The county road part can be deceiving.  I understand, back in the day, the route was maintained enough to permit vehicle traffic, although, it certainly was not what we would consider a modern day road.  Today, the trail is certainly a shadow of it’s former self.  The only way you get through is with a modified short wheel base four wheel drive vehicle.  No showroom stock stuff here.  I don’t care if your wrangler has the “trail rated” badge.  If it isn’t set up for this monster, you’re not getting through.  There are certain minimum requirements to ensure you have a good shot at successfully navigating the trail, and getting out without major vehicle damage.

My current Jeep is the second one I’ve had.  My first Jeep was a 1990 Wrangler, which introduced me the insaneness of Jeep ownership.  Those of you that own one would relate.  My current Jeep is my baby, lovingly modified to meet the requirements of Michigan four wheeling, which it handled pretty well.

The Specs

Gear-heads, here’s the spec sheet of our transportation for the trail.

1986 CJ-7

258 cubic inch inline 6

Automatic transmission with B&M trans cooler

Dana 300 transfer case

Dana 44 rear axle, Detroit tru-trac limited slip

Dana 30 front axle, Aussie locker

4:10 gears

GM HEI ignition

Weber carburetor

3 core radiator

4” lift

33 x 12.5 BFG mud terrain tires

Shrockworks Rock Sliders

Four X Doctor Skids

That’s a pretty good spec sheet if you’re Michigan wheeling.  That’s the bare minimum for the Rubicon.

The Trip

So, Ed, why on earth would you want to go to such a place, you ask?  Good question.  Of course it’s fun and adventure.  How many times does one get to participate in the pinnacle of the sport or hobby of their choosing?  There is only one Rubicon Trail.  And, I live here!  This was the CJ’s destiny!

But, not being a total numb-skull, I decide to go with an organized group and signed for the Jeepers Jamboree annual trip.  The 3 day trip provides trail spotters (folks on the trails most difficult sections that guide you through, very important, especially for a first timer), three squares a day, camping at Rubicon Springs (our base camp halfway through the trip), mechanics, and parts if (when) you break something, and just a good old big party, fun atmosphere in the base camp.  What more could you ask for?

Of course, I signed up Jennifer to ride along also, so she could partake in the grandure.  Jenn had been wheeling with me in Michigan, and I figured that she’d love getting out in the Sierra back country as well.  Oops!  One caveat, Jenn’s never camped in a tent before…  Is there any other camping?  You guys that know her will understand.

We left the day before the trip, trailering the Jeep to the end of the trail and then driving it to the jumping off point in Georgetown.  This was a trip of firsts, as I’ve never trailer the CJ before.  But the Avalanche pulled everything like a champ and we rolled into our “tow rig” drop off point in goods time, unloaded the CJ, our gear, and got into Georgetown in good order.  We stayed at a little motel that night so we could get a good night’s sleep and a real shower before heading for three days of life with pit toilets.  We met some very nice folks at the motel that were going on the trip also.  I asked if we could tag along with them, as the fellow had been wheeling for some time, had been on the Rubicon before and pretty much had his act together.  Never hurts to make friends, and it turned out great.

Day One

Up and early and roll out from the motel to get to the trail head.  Hook up with our new friends there, Jeepers providing breakfast and a box lunch for the day and off we go.  What could be better?  OK, can I say now, I was pretty damn nervous.  I had done my research, and I thought I knew what to expect, but I was still uneasy.  Jenn was a good sport, and initially (very short period of time), the trail was fairly easy, considering.  Neither one of us was about to appreciate what we were getting into.  I’ll break it into the major sections.  Enjoy.

Breakfast at the trailhead

The Granite Slab

We start out down the trail, turn into the Sierra, and head out up this enormous granite mountain.  Smooth like a road, but there is no road.  Just climb to the top, and then descend into this huge bowl of granite to follow the trail.  Very cool.  Awesome views from the top.  So far so good.

Ed at the top of the slab

Looking down into the bowl

Enter the Gatekeeper

OK, now not so cool.  Once you leave the granite slab, you start running the actual trail.  OK, trail is a kind word.  The trail is now just a path that is littered with boulders and rocks.  When I used to think of a rock, I thought of something I could pick up in one hand and heave at the lake or some thing.  These rocks you can’t pick up.  And they are everywhere.  Think about driving over that.  These are the easy parts.  After a while, you get to a section they call the Gatekeeper, because if you can’t get through this section, you don’t belong on the trail.  Yeow!  About time we got through that, Jenn and I were both thinking “what in the hell have we got ourselves into”?  And oh, by the way, we’re only like a half mile into the trip.

Entrance to gate keeper

JJ, one of the spotters on the gatekeeper, certainly recognized the look of terror on our faces, gave me some good driving tips, that essentially defined how I approached and drove the rest of the weekend.  That really saved my (our) ass.  I had something to focus and work on.  Driving tight trails in heavy rock, essentially rock crawling, is way different than dirt trails, sand and mud wheeling in Michigan.  I thought I had a clue, but JJ, put me on the right track.

After that, Jenn and I began to work as a team, she, spotting for me from the passenger seat for things I could not see from my side and helping pick lines of approach.  Basically, you crawl your jeep on top of the rocks, and keep it rolling as high over obstacles as you can, to avoid getting hung up on large rocks.  It’s a constant study, and you have to get it right every time, or you risk getting stuck and or serious damage.  It’s sloooooow going.  Trust me.  Anything more than a crawl will bring you a loud bang when you come down on one of those never ending rocks/boulders.  Not good.  Remember, none of this is man made.  It’s all natural destruction for your jeep waiting to happen!

Ed articulating on the trail

Rolling on the rocks

Learning Our Way

Once we got through Gatekeeper, and our reality check, we started to get our teamwork down, things started to click.  Trouble was that every turn brought new challenges that were at the time, mind blowing.  Like how the hell are we supposed to get through that?  From the pictures, I hope you can see what I mean.  Unfortunately, pictures can’t convey the reality of the trail.  You have to experience it.  Pictures come from the relatively easy sections.  The hardest ones don’t have time for picture taking.  There were several “named sections” after Gatekeeper, but truthfully, at the time, they all ran together.  It was one big struggle and we were learning how to drive the Rubicon.

Yes this is the trail

Typical trail

Big Sluice

Every time we’d get through a section that had spotters, Jenn would ask one of the spotters if we had just done “Big Sluice”.  Not sure why she was hung up on that section, other than it was supposed to be difficult (like any were easy), or she just liked the name.  Every time the spotter would say “Oh no, that’s still yet to come”.  Great.  I’m thinking this must be like the twilight zone or something ‘cause it can’t get much worse that what we’ve just been through.  I’ve never been through so much driving torment in all my life!

Enter big sluice

Big Sluice is a down hill section of the trail that is the decent into Rubicon Springs, where our base camp will be.  You got to run it’s gauntlet to get to camp.  Can I say downhill on the Rubicon sucks (no power brakes)?  Boulders, a twisty trail and gravity make up for a nasty trip down.

Rubicon Springs

Finally we made it to the valley known as Rubicon Springs, our base camp.  Yeah!  As we roll into camp, there are tons of jeeps and folks’ tents everywhere (many came in the day before for an extra day).  I was elated.  Just like being home after a long trip.  Trouble was, us being newbie’s and all, we were pretty much tail end Charlie on arrival.  Fine.  Crack a beer and find out where to camp.  OK, well, nothing left around here, so just follow the Rubicon some more till you can find a spot you like and set up.  Did I mention that there are no “camp sites”?  You just find an open spot off the trail and set up shop.  Damn.  More of this Rubicon Trail torture.  So, off we continue to crawl until, CRAP!  I ran out of gas!  Holy moly.  Can it get any worse?  I mean Jesus.  I’m a good sort and all but for the love of god, can we just end the day?  The good news is I have a five gallon can in the back.  The bad news is that we went seven and a half miles and I burned up almost a full tank doing it.  The math is not working in our favor.  We have nine and a half miles to go after a down day in camp.  I’m not happy right about now…

After dumping my reserve gas in the tank, we move on and end up in a good campsite along the trail.  We’re a ways from base camp, but we’re not setting up shop on granite, so I’m good with that.  Plus, we’re closer to the “exit” when we move out on Sunday.  Things a re looking up.

Home sweet home

Base camp was fun.  Big set up.  Lots of food (remember, three squares), all cooked out, cowboy style.  Bar (cheap), live band every night, giveaways, bonfire, the whole nine yards.  One big party each night.  Good food, friends and times.  Don’t get much better than that.  All of this out in the middle of the Sierra (All that stuff has to be Jeeped in).

Damage Report

Broken rear passenger shock mount and shock.  It didn’t seem to make much difference as far as I could tell.  I went to the mechanic station to see if they thought I need to get the shock mount welded back for the trip out.  Result:  remove shock and soldier on.

More important is gas.  I’m positive I won’t get out on five gallons.  That, I’m worried about.  Luckily, our friends we met at the motel, know someone here that knew someone in the mechanics station, blah, blah, and he clues me in that the mechanic station has a limited supply of gas.  Expensive, but how much is too much, when you consider running out of fuel out in these flipping boonies?  I suppose I could have tried to scrounge from others, but that’s not cool.  Lucky that they sold me five gallons (which I had to practically plead for).   Add that to my five, and it should take us out.

Finishing the Rubicon

Sunday means heading out and finishing the trail.  Only one named obstacle remains.  Cadillac Hill.  That is the climb out from the valley we’re in (Rubicon Springs).  Everyone we ask about Cadillac says the same thing.  It’s really bad this year.  Never seen it so bad, etc.  Psyche.  I don’t know what to expect, but good is nowhere near entering my mind.  Thankfully, there were a ton of spotters on the trail along Cadillac and we got through OK.  We actually had big fun going up, since the spotters gave good direction, it made it more fun to do.  Plus, I had confidence in my driving skills and Jenn was a champ in the navigator’s seat.  We were veterans now.  Looking back, it must have been pretty bad because of the number of spotters they had out there.  There were a couple of places where there was zero room for error.  Error means tumbling down the side of a granite mountain.  Not the finish we were looking for.

Start up Cadillac

Cadillac Hill

Finale

We made it out in one piece, made lots of new friends and had a great time.  The Rubicon is a very intense trip, for man and machine.  I would classify this as an extreme trip.  It does not seem like it on the surface, but for your first time, trust me, it’s extreme.  The CJ performed admirably.  It’s set up is “old school”, but it worked like a charm.  There were purpose built rigs out there that people had tens of thousands of dollars into them.  Those rigs pretty much tip-toed through the crap.  I’m sure they didn’t get the rush that we did!   If there is a next time, the CJ will be even more beefed and set up for rocks as oppose to trails.  Jenn and I got the team work down and I thought that was one of the big positive of the trip.  We worked as a team making our way through it and really got the hang of navigating the obstacles on the trail.  Couldn’t have done it without her.

Fabulous co driver

Next week I’m off to the Service Rifle National Championships at Camp Perry Ohio.  More good clean American type fun!   I’ll be keeping you up to date as soon as I can.  Stay tuned.

Observing the World Around Me

Yes, I’ve been making some observations.  Since my last post, work once again has trumped fun, and I’ve been on the road quite a bit.  Meaning I don’t get to do fun stuff that I can blog about.  However, lots of travel means going places and seeing lots of things, even if it does not much amount to fun.

I’m sure most everyone reading this has flown somewhere and therefore spent time in an air port.  I spend lots of time in airports.  Airports are great places to see all sorts of people.  All sorts of people.  For those of you that are my age (remember the turning 50 post), you surely remember when travel, especially on an airplane, was a big deal.  You got dressed up and planned, and anticipated the big day of departure.  Not anymore.  Air travel seems to be passé to folks.  It is to me because I do it all the time.  But the novelty has certainly been lost on the rest of the masses.  Ever notice how casual folks are anymore when traveling by air?  I mean, I guess you don’t need to be in a suit, but jeeze, do you need to dress like you’re hanging at the park, or dragging around in your back yard?  I see folks getting on planes that dress like I do for a day just bumming around the house and yard.  And what is the deal with flip flops anyway?  Why must I be subjected to everyone’s nasty feet at 35,000 FT.?   Shorts, fine.   T-shirt, fine.  Having to look at your nasty, knarley toe jamb, not priceless.  I mean really, where has our sense of pride gone?  Probably the same place as our sense of self responsibility…  Oh, that’s right, we can’t be criticized, because we should be able to feel good about ourselves, whatever we’re doing.  Wrong.  Take some pride in your appearance and quit dressing like a bum.  I know, I’m acting like I have an AARP card.  Cut yer damn hair and clean up!  Is that really so bad for your “self esteem”?

 

Observations

Last week I was back in Charlotte, North Carolina.  I’ve spent quit a bit of time in the south (not just North Carolina) over the years, and I have to say that I love it.  There is a level of hospitality and respect that folks in the south exhibit and live that is so refreshing.  Typically folks from the north tend to look down on southerners because they talk funny, or don’t seem to be in a hurry, or generally feel that they are not as “enlightened” as them.  That’s a load of crap.  All those liberal Yanks should take a page from their southern brethren and wise up.  Courtesy, respect and hospitality go a long way to building good relationships.

I’ve spent time lately in the mid-west also.  Kansas City, to be specific.  Nice people.  Not the slower pace of the south, but not the fast paced, it’s all about me pace of the northeast and big city west coast (LA, San Fran, Seattle).  Being a sort of mid western boy (Michigan), I can relate.  It’s more of the real America, where folks are hardworking and aren’t pretentious, without the cool southern accent!

A visual observation.  Southern women rock.  I know, I know, the Beach Boys sang about Kalifornia girls.  Well they obviously never spent time in the south.  Those southern girls will give those Kali girls a run for their money, and they have that sexy accent to boot!

 

What’s going on in Kali?

More than most would care to know.  The state is still 24 billion in debt.  The governator has decreed that state workers are to take three unpaid days off each month to save money.  Courts, state offices, etc.  Big emergency.  Freaking mess.  The state started issuing IOUs to creditors because it can’t pay it’s bills.  Lord knows what will go down, or close down next.

 

Drinking the Kool-Aid

That’s been a favorite phrase for a while now.  Kind of catchy.  Used to identify folks that bought into an idea without much thought.  For those that don’t realize the source of that phrase, I’ll remind you of the Jonestown disaster, when the Reverend Jim Jones, down in an island somewhere, duped his followers into drinking poisoned Kool-Aid, and everyone died.  Made the cover of Time magazine.  I’m sure some of you remember.  So, only in Kalifornia, would you see this…

 

 

Are you ready to Drink the Kool Aid?

Has everyone drank the Kool-Aid yet?  For God’s sake, I hope not.

 

Adventures

Jenn is on an adventure as we speak, or as I write.  Two of her bestest girlfriends came into town last week, and they have been road tripping.  It was good to see Duffy and Miss Caroline, if at least only for a day or so.  I’m sure they will have had some fun up in Nor Cal, bonding with nature.

Jenn and I begin our next adventure this coming week.  We’re heading to the Rubicon Trail, baby!  For those of you that don’t know, the Rubicon is the granddaddy of four wheel drive trails in the country.  And, it just happens to be 3 hours away from our humble abode, in the High Sierras of Kalifornia.  I can’t wait.  The CJ is primed for the trip.  Back home, all we really can do four wheeling wise, is run sleepy trails and thrash in the occasional mud hole.

This is What We’re in For!

 

Out here, we really get to put the machine to the test.

The trail runs from Georgetown to Lake Tahoe, CA.  We’ll be camping at the halfway point in Rubicon Springs.  This will be Jenn’s first time camping in a tent.  Is there any other camping?  It should be bitching.  I hope that the CJ comes out in one piece.  Dents are OK (badges of honor), as long as she drives out, I’m happy.  Know that I will be posting to the blog after we get back with cool pics and commentary as soon as I can.

Right after that, I’m heading back east to the National Championships at Camp Perry, Ohio.  My son and I have been shooting at the Nationals for the past 9 years together, and 12 or 13, I think, for me.  I won’t be competitive this year for several reasons, but it will be my chance to connect with old friends and generally just bask in the atmosphere of competitive shooters, and much more freedom than I have in Kalifornia.  Of course, pictures will be forthcoming…

 

Uncertainty

If you’ve read the “About” tab, or know us, you know we are in Kaliforna on a temporary assignment.  Or should I say Jennifer is.  Since that assignment is with General Motors, you can see how that is now is rather precarious.  With all the Kool-Aid drinking going on, we could be looking at moving back to the cradle of GM (Michigan) in a heartbeat, or looking at making this area our permanent home (GASP!).  Way too much uncertainty for any more comments on that.  Stay tuned, and y’all will find out what the heck is going on when we do.

Shooting in Kalifornia

Bloggers!  Last post, I mentioned the tactical match that I was lucky enough to be able to participate in, and that I was pretty excited about that, so here is my “report” on the match and the weekend.

Most of my friends know that Kalifornia is hell for gun owners.  Believe me, my skin crawls at the thoughts of all the stupid regulation that folks out here (and I) have to endure.  Totally wacked.  There are few areas of the country that are so restrictive.  But that does not stifle the spirit of those that have to live and endure here.  The shooting sports live on, despite the liberal beast’s best efforts.  I’m certain we give the beast indigestion, and I hope, chronic acid reflux!

Anyway, since I’ve been separated from my beloved ARs, I’ve had the opportunity to engage in the precision tactical shooting discipline.  Not surprisingly, precision shooting is pretty big, and well developed out here.  This is not the benchrest crowd, but a real attempt to bring precision tactical bolt rifle competition to a high level.

I’m lucky enough to be near a shooting club that has outstanding facilities.  Facilities that my friends back home would be drooling over and literally could not comprehend, from what is available back in the mid-west.  Couple that with a dedicated precision rifle club that has access to those facilities, and well, you got some real good ju-ju going on.

Nor Cal Practical Precision Rifle Club

In this environment, I’m essentially cross training.  I’m a seasoned highpower service rifle and long range shooter, so I know about pulling a trigger, but at this point, this is new ground for me.  Lucky I got on this bandwagon many years ago and at least have a rifle that is suitable for these competitions, if not the operational experience.

Now, the question is, am I up to the challenge?  I’ve been shooting with my club about 7 months now, off and on, since work tends to trump my fun at times.  I’ve had some good days and some ruff ones (the club holds monthly comps) but I’ve integrated well.  The big match was held two weekends ago.  TBRC (Tactical Bolt Rifle Challenge) 2009.  Shooters from all across the country come out to take the challenge.  This is no slouch event.  The prize table must have totaled out at well over at $15K.  Digest that highpower shooters!  I know my head was spinning, slinging the spittle that was creeping from my mouth.

The competition was a two day event.  A couple of new friends asked if I was game to go in on renting an RV, so we could stay at the range facility for the weekend that TBRC was being held, since we all live and hour and a half or betters drive away.  Worked for me.  I knew there would be several other “campers” there, so what would be more fun that a bunch of shooters hanging out for the weekend “camping”, grilling, talking guns, gals, stuff, and rehashing the days events?  Hog heaven baby.  America!

Home on the range

Here is the course of fire for the two days.  It’s fairly self explanatory, but I’ll clarify and comment (in italics) where I feel necessary.

Split all 54 shooters into Alpha and Bravo squads. Alpha squad shot on the steel range and Bravo squad shot on the 1K range on Day 1.

Our 1K (1000 yard) COF comes down to pure marksmanship from 200yards to 1K.

On the 1K Range.
The CBS (Cold bore shot. One shot, no sighters, put on your settings and go) was a hostage target @ 200yards If you hit the hostage it was -20. 40 points for a good hit.  A good hit was a 2”red  square.

Can YOU hit the red? Don't wack the hostage...

200 yard Kneeling Fire 3 rounds (3 rounds 60 seconds)
200 yard off hand fire 3 rounds (3 rounds 60 seconds)
300 yard weak side fire 3 rounds (Meaning if you’re right handed, you shoot lefty)
300 yard Sitting fire 3 rounds (3 rounds 60 seconds)
400 yard barricades 6 rounds. 2 standing, 2 kneeling 2 sitting. (all transitioning in a total of 60 seconds)

Barricades at 400 yards

 

500 yard head shots 3 rounds 8″ target (3 rounds 60 seconds)
500 yard time exposure targets. 6 second exposure for 2 rounds each time. (random exposures over a 5 minute time limit)
600 yard head shots (3 rounds 60 seconds)
600 yard center mass (3 rounds 60 seconds)
800 yard 3 strings of 3. Shoot 3 shots, pit crew would mark them. Clean them up for the next 3. ((60 seconds per string)
900 yards 3 strings of 3 ((60 seconds per string))
1000 yards 4 strings of 3 (60 seconds per string)

Swap relays.

Do it all again with relay two shooting

Next, both relays move to our ranging stage which all shooters had to range 10 IPSC targets in an open field in 15 minutes. Plus or minus 10yards to get the points. No Laser range finders.  Use your ranging reticles in your rifle scopes.

Entire squad moves down to 200 yards to start mover stages.  Mover means a MOVING TARGET.  Check out this link…  This was at 300 yards.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LBgBpWmpSp4

Our mover was going at exactly 2MPH

200 yards 60 seconds for 6 rounds on a 6″ Shoot N C
300 yards 60 seconds for 6 rounds on a 8″ Shoot N C
500 yards 90 seconds for 10 rounds on a full size cardboard IPSC target. A LOT of people did well on this stage. Next year we will speed it up.

Steel Range COF (Course of fire)

CBS: 100 meters 1″ Dot (People got hammered on this stage) Not me, thank God…

Upper Steel Range COF

1. Barricade Poppers: Engage full size Popper at 330yards from standing, kneeling, sitting, and unsupported prone. 70 seconds shoot time. (popper is about 6 inches wide by a foot tall.  Use the barricade for support)

2. Using Hold overs only (you cannot adjust you scope for elevation changes.  You must have a graduated reticle or mildots to gauge your hold over), engage targets from 550yards to 150 meters in order (farthest to nearest). 10 rounds. Shot off a concrete block. (time limit, like 90 seconds)

Engaging targets from 550 yards on in.

3. Tic Tac Toe @ 100yards. Competitors shot a tic tac toe target at 100yards. This was a man vs man stage. You had to hit 1″ targets to claim your square.

4. Random targets. RO would call out random targets from 100yards to 550yards for shooter to engage. 10 rounds possible.  (All in like 90 seconds.  And by the way, you were shooting laying on a roof type platform.  Hold over technique necessary)

5.550 yard KYL

View from the roof. Can you ID all your targts?

 

(KYL= know your limits.  You are presented with a series of targets.  The first being the largest and they get smaller as you go along.  You accumulate points as you hit targets.  If you hit the first target you can continue to the next, and so forth.  One round each.  If you miss the next target, you lose all you points.  You can stop at any time, hence know you limits).

Lower Steel Range

1. Weak side only barricade on 6″ LV Steel Poppers at 220yards

(Standing, kneeling, sitting, 2 rounds each, like 70 seconds, and from your opposite side, as described before)

Standing

Kneeling

Sitting

2. Unsupported Sitting @ 220yards.  That was cake for me, highpower shooter that I am.  Unfortunately, it was some of the only cake that I got that weekend!

3. 420yard KYL (more know your limits)

Know your limits!

4. MGM Sponsored Dueling Tree Stage. 7 rounds to hit 6 6″ targets at 420yards. (in like 60 seconds, and in order)

5. Off Hand @ 110 yards @ 8″ plates  Ho hum…  

6 Points Ticking Away. Competitors had to hit 4 targets in order with 7 rounds maximum to stop the clock to earn points.  (Fastest time with most hits wins)

Points ticking away...

7. Random Cards. Competitors had to find and shoot cards they were assigned in the AM brief. However each card had a 1″ shoot N C dot on it that would have to be hit to earn points. (60 seconds to find yo  rplaying cards in a sea of cards posted to boards at almost 100 yards.  Not fun.)

This is not for the faint of heart.  It is challenging.  You have to be on every aspect of your game, and oh by the way, factoring in how the wind affects your shots also.  All in the short times that you have to hit your targets.

So, you’re thinking, Ed, how did you do?  Right.  Sorry to say, I screwed the pooch.  Big time.  I was in bravo squad on the 1000 yard range for day one and made too many stupid mental mistakes early that put me in a hole.  Once we got out to 800 yards, the wind was so damn tricky that I just got completely hammered, score wise.  Lots of others did also, but that was no consolation.  Day two for me on the steel range was better.  At least I felt good about some stages, but by that time it was all “practice from there”.  I had a great time though.  I’ve never seen any competition of this type taken to this level on the east coast.  The Nor Cal Precision Rifle Club certainly has done its homework and puts on a first class event.  I’m glad to have been able to participate, since by this time next year, We will probably be planning our departure from the Kali.

So, what’s up next?  Well, Jenn’s GM coordinator picnic is this weekend.  It’s planned location is Mount Diablo.  Pretty cool place.  Since Jenn is responsible for coordinating this activity, we scouted out locations last weekend.  Saw lots of Coyotes in the park.  Keep the children close!  I’m already formulating my next post…

Just Trying to Enjoy the Ride

OK, bloggers, or those of you that have been following this series, you know it started out as a rant against all things ridiculous in Kalifornia.  And, I don’t think I’ve let you down in following through on that aspect in subsequent posts.  But, I also want to chronicle the positive, so those of you who can’t get out visiting, can at least share in some of the fun, and what we’re up to.  Besides, I don’t want to come off as some cranky curmudgeon, at least not all the time.

Our last little trip was to Yosemite National Park.  Simply wonderful place.  One could literally spend weeks there, at least if you’re into the outdoors thing.  We kind of decided to go on a whim, so we just made it a day trip.  Nice that three and a half hours drive puts you in God’s country.  Anyway, we ended up not doing as much hiking as planned, snow in the higher elevations that we had planned on trekking in, kind of put the kabash on that.  That and my breaking through a snow packed trail right into a creek, pretty much made up my mind!  Guess I better get to the gym and work on dropping some pounds…We did end up on a trail that took us to Sentinel Dome, which was cool.  We pretty much were at 6500 to 7000 feet (that’s why we still had snow in mid May).  Being at that elevation does allow you some wonderful views.  Although, it’s not hard in that park to find a great scenic view.  If you’ve never been, it is something to put on your must see list.  Even tenderfoots can drive to some great look out points and partake in the splendor.

So, here are a few pictures from our short trip to Yosemite.

 

R-L: El Capitan, Half Dome, Sential Dome, Bridal Vail Falls

Yosemite Vally from Glacier Point

Mountain Stream

Sierra Nevadas from the Trail

Nevada (top) and Vernal Falls

Dynamic Duo (Notice how I blend into the background, LOL!)

Half Dome at Sunset

 

More news and the rant?

Last post I mentioned a vote coming up to raise our taxes even more!  Finally, the citizens of this state decided to stop the madness, and voted it down.  In fact, the only proposition passed was one to prohibit government officials from getting pay raises.  Duh!  Sad thing is, only 20% of the voters turned out.  Does that mean no one really gives a damn?

No big shakes over Memorial Day for us.  We actually forgot about the long weekend coming up, and didn’t plan anything specific trip-wise.  Since we figured accomodations would be at a premium, we decided to stay home, relax, and tidy up the backyard so it’s ready for the rest of summer.  As you may have guessed, Jenn and I like to spend a lot of time outdoors.  That includes time we are home.  We spend tons of time on the patio, wherever we have lived.  At this house, we have a pretty nice back yard and patio (especially for Kali).  It’s kind of our oasis to kick back and relax in.  So, pruning and primping were the order of the weekend.  Mission accomplished.  Mostly.

Pruning and primping, check.  Relaxing, check. 

 Except for a couple little annoyances:

Check one.  Have you ever really noticed mocking birds?  They’re rather vocal.  Creative, distinctive, but loud.  And at all times of the day and night.  Like 2 AM.  Don’t birds sleep?  With the windows open, you can hear the lovely, schizophrenic songs of the mocking bird.  Did I say 2 AM?.  Jenn rolled over one night and mumbled something like “oh no, not the faarking mocking bird!”  Of course, that’s the comment now when we hear him.

Check two. Another guy that has been encroaching on the peace of the land is the little Chihuahua next door.  The neighbors seem content to leave the little guy out when they go way for a few hours.  He seems content to bark until they come home.  Now, code named Pancho Villa, Pancho has learned how to howl.  Nice.  Let’s hope Pancho learns how to play the quiet game soon, before some sort of natural selection, or a large bird of prey selects him.

There’s plenty going on this summer, as we have lots of plans, so the posts should be coming right and left.  Next weekend is a major precision shooting match that I was fortunate enough to land a slot in, so I’m excited about that.  Folks coming from all over the country.  I’m all geared up, loaded up and as ready as I’ll ever be.  I’ve also got a trip planned to navigate the famous Rubicon Trail in the beloved CJ this July, along with my annual trip to the National Matches at Camp Perry.  Plus, we’ll certainly be on the road for whatever adventures we can muster up when we can, so stay tuned…

Turning 50 in the big CA

Alright bloggers, I know I’ve been delinquent in posting, but it’s been hectic to say the least.  Since my last post, many things have evolved on the political and personal landscape, so what say we get started…

Well, the title says it all.  I eclipsed the half century mark last month.  Oh Joy.  In all actuality, I still don’t feel a day over 25, or maybe 15.  At least in my mind anyway.  I’m still the biggest juvenile that I ever was.  It’s a guy thing, I’m sure.  Now I’m not mid-life crisis-ing, or anything like that.  I’m not out to buy a Corvette, or get hair implants (I’d love the ‘vette, just cant justify the cost), but there is just something about hitting 50 that makes one, I don’t know, think a bit.  You start to reflect some on the things you’ve done, where you’ve been, etc.  Like, what in the hell was I thinking when I did that!  Or holy crap was I lucky I didn’t end up… well, y’all get the idea.

Now, it’s time to enjoy life.  Kids are grown.  I’m established career-wise.  Not hurting for funds.  I can enjoy life as I choose.  So, I’m feeling good right? And then BAM!  I get this in the mail.

 

Card of Doom

Gotta love it.  My AARP card.  Who says that we’re not all in some grand database?  I’m all feel good and reflecting and these folks are making me aware that I’m part of the senior community.  I thought that stuff was for senior citizens so they could get the senior discount at the local eatery.  Didn’t we all think that AARP was for grandpa?  I’m not ready to be grandpa yet (and hopefully, my daughter, or son for that matter) is not ready to relegate me to the ranks of grandpa.  I’m thinking that it’s just a ploy to sign you up and get dues just to fund their agenda.  How can I be excited about being a member of AARP?  What a buzz kill.  I’m still juvenile, remember?  Jenn reminds of that on a regular basis.

More fun.  My daughter had an eclipse of her own, turning 21, shortly after my eclipse.  Luckily enough, I was able to back in Michigan due to work and other concerns, to be there for her birthday.   I was honored to be invited to the stroke of midnight trek to the bar for the initial drinks with friends.  Actually, it was cool that she wanted me to be there with her.  But, it was awkward to say the least.  Being there with my baby, with others, them buying her shots, concoctions I’ve never heard of, and watching her down them was, well, I guess I needed my AARP card.  And no, I was NOT looking for any discounts…She’s a great kid and very responsible. Although I did give the boyfriend a bit of a grilling, without trying to be openly grilling, if that makes sense.

Anyway, back to Kalifronia.  Last weekend, Jenn and I decided to head out and explore the beautiful country around us and make a weekend of it.  Headed out to Point Reyes National Seashore.  Found this great place to stay in Inverness, right on Tomales bay.  Way cool.

Moonlight on the Bay

Hiked around on Saturday, and then did the mother of all hikes Sunday out to Tomales Point, about 10 miles.  Long way for us.  I’m certainly not the guy I used to be (50, remember?).  At 10 miles, I was done.  My chips were cashed in.  I was fine, but no more adventures for that day.  Just keep moving and everything is OK.  Jenn and I had a good laugh after we got home (two and a half hour drive).  When we went to get out of the truck, both of use were pretty much stymied.  Froze up like, well like we needed an AARP card!  I was moving like I was a hundred, and not 50!  We had a good laugh at ourselves over that one.  Ever feel old?

 

The Trek to Tomales Point

Wild flowers along the Way

At the Point

Looking Down From the Point

So, you say, he’s not ranting!  Has Kali changed him?  Not in the least.  One thing you’ll notice out here is that lots of folks are into healthy activities.  Running, cycling, anything that promotes health.  Fine with me.  I could use some of that.  And you typically have to share the road with all these healthy folks, which I think might not be so healthy.  Case in point.  To get to our destination last weekend, you do much of your driving on Highway 1 and other two lane roads which all have the twisty road sign on them.

Twisty Road

If you’ve ever driven on the coast (Highway 1), you know there is no room for error on the twisty road.  Error equals plunging off the side a cliff.  So, with lots of blind curves and death literally at our side, enter the healthy folks.  Why these guys are allowed on some of these roads is beyond me.  There is no room for them on the side of the road.  Passing them is treacherous, with all the blind curves and hills.  Heck, I’d be scared to be on a bike on those damn roads.  Seems counter productive in the healthy department to me.  “Cyclist dies after falling off Highway 1.  Passing truck bounced him off, plunging hundreds of feet to his death!”   Yeah, but he was in shape!  It’s a hazard all the way around.  And there are hundreds of them on the road.  Roaming like dogs in packs.  With some of the nuts passing them, I expected to see one of those Tour de France highlight scenes where they all tumble like farking dominos.  Insane.

What else is insane?  Big vote coming up here next week.  Get a load of this.  Not only are our taxes out here the highest in the land, there’s props on the special ballot to raise taxes even more!  Estimated 16 billion in additional taxes.  We’re almost as bad as freaking Canada, and we don’t even have any health care yet!  I read something today where Arnold is ready to start selling off state assets.  One particularly attractive asset is San Quentin.  That’s right, the state penn.  Since the state is so broke, and going to start cutting loose inmates soon, might as well sell the property to developers for luxury condos with killer views (no puns there) of the bay.  Along with a bunch of other properties they might net 1 billion over the next few years.  Great.  Only 39 more billion in debt to go!  This place is so far gone it defies belief.  I’m glad we have all these great places to visit (really) or it would be depressing.

On an up side, one of the good thing about the birthday was the great gift I got!  Shwoopdi Weber grill.  Oh YA!  Almost as good as a new gun!  This thing is the cat’s ass.  Cadillac of grills.  I’m in hog heaven.

 

Cadillac of Grills

 

We’ve got lots of stuff planned for the summer.  I’ve got big time rifle matches to participate in, We’re going on a trip through the Rubicon Trail in my CJ, Jenn’s got friends coming out, and we’re heading to Yosemite this weekend, so we’ll be catching up on all of that as it happens. So stay tuned.  I promise I’ll keep posting as soon as I can after each adventure.  Same Bat Time, Same Bat Channel…

America, Welcome to change you can believe in…

Change. That’s what everyone wanted. Well, ya got it. Today, I see that Rick Wagoner, CEO of General Motors is resigning. Courtesy of President Obama. Well that’s just nice. You want government money, you’re gonna dance to our tune. Like The office of the President knows how to run the automotive business. Just like government has done such a bang up job of running everything else. Don’t take my word for it. Read the news services. Coming down right from the white house. Stupid.

 
Here’s my take on this. There is a huge outcry over the AIG executive bonuses paid out. AIG took billions from the feds, not once but twice. The white house declares that it’s necessary to save the economy from collapsing. Gotta spend trillions, and prop the financial markets up. Can’t risk catastrophe. Oops! How did those AIG guys get those bonuses? Seems like it was written into the Gi-normous spending bill the Pres and his democratic cronies were pushing so hard to save the economy. Someone has mucho egg on their face. Either no one read the freaking spending/bail out/ rescue bills and took it all at face value, or, someone had a back door deal in there to slip in/allow the bonuses in the thousands of words of legal mumbo jumbo that no one would notice. Either way, lots of bad press for the sitting administration and the sitting majority democratic party that is ram-rodding all this stuff through in the name of saving us all. Obama’s approval ratings start to fall. Regular folks can’t relate to a trillion dollars, nor can they relate, nor comprehend how an insurance company’s (AIG) failing effect the economy. That stuff just does not compute for most of us.

 
Enter GM. An American icon. We all can relate to baseball, apple pie, and Chevrolet. There is a Chevy in my driveway, or my neighbors. Chevy has probably touched my life at some point. GM and Chrysler has asked for government help to avoid bankruptcy, to avoid putting not only thousands of their own workers out for work, but many more thousands of those that support the automotive industry, supplying parts and services. GM comes down and the whole economy of Michigan, Ohio, Indiana and other surrounding states literally goes bye, bye. This is serious stuff that the average American relates to it. It’s tangible.

 
So, if you’re the Obama white house, you’ve got big egg on your face over AIG, along with the democratic controlled congress, that pushed the crap through. Did we read that stuff? Hey, what about GM? We’ve been demonizing them from the get go, telling everyone they’re failing because they don’t build “green” fuel efficient cars, ignoring the “crisis” our planet is in, building those gas guzzling SUVs. Yeah, that’s the ticket. Never mind that until last year when gas spiked due to oil speculators, no one wanted to buy those tiny fuel misers. When was the last time you saw some mac daddy on pimp my ride, pimping out his Prius. Don’t think so. Escalade baby! Car companies build what is selling. And folks wanted big. Never mind that GM builds lots of fuel efficient cars. If folks aren’t buying, you’re not going to build tons of them and having them sit on a lot. But that does not matter to the folks in power. They smell a scapegoat. How can I turn public attention away from my debacle of giving AIG billions, while allowing them pay out bonuses to their executive who screwed everything up? Of course! We can channel the public attention to something else, something tangible that they can relate to. GM! Chevy in every driveway. GM has asked for a total of a paltry (relatively) 25 billion in total in loans from the feds. AIG has gotten hundreds of billions. But GM is something folks relate to. Let’s throw GM under the bus. So, as a condition, the President (Obama) tells the CEO of GM, Rick Wagoner, that he has to resign as a condition of future assistance from Washington. Press releases from the white house indicate that the automotive industry will be held to very high reorganization standards, and all facets of the industry will have to step up to the pump big time.

 
Right. Sounds like a big political play to me. GM, Rick, if you want our cash to help keep a real American company (life blood) alive, (GM) that the folks can relate to, you need to resign. If you don’t we’ll decline the funds, and if the company folds, and hundreds of thousands lose their livelihood, and a real part of America dies, it’s on you buddy. Or, you can do the right thing and fall on your sword, while we make an example of you, since we screwed up with the whole AIG thing, and direct everyone’s attention here, so we look like we’re tough on the big bad corporations that are raping and exploiting Americans, so they forget we don’t have a clue to what we are doing. Are ya’ll seeing this? If you are paying attention to what is going on, you should. It’s the typical MO. Like Obama knows how to restructure the auto industry in America. Like the guy (or his cronies) have any clue about the business, or any business for that matter. They’re all lawyers for God’s sakes (no offense to my lawyer friends, but it’ not law, its business). So, they’ll dictate what they can build, who they should employ, and basically nationalize the industry. Can you say Renault? It’s all part of the plan.

 
My heart is bleeding. I spent over 20 years in the automotive industry. I have close friends still (thankfully) in the industry. I watched last fall, when the media and government officials spewed tons of total untruths about the industry, when the American automotive industry was looking for support from our government. Now, I see one of our American icons, one of our symbols of American strength, power, and pride, being made a scapegoat for political gain. Does anyone remember when Chrysler was about to go under, and the feds bailed them out with loans? That was in the late 70’s. They re-organized, came out of it and made themselves a strong, viable company, and repaid every penny. No one demonized them. No one forced Iacocca to resign. They let a car guy run the show, and do what he did best. Now we are going to have politicians designing and building cars.

 
I’m sad. My heart bleeds. No, I’m not sad, I’m angry. Angry that politicians are manipulating us in a time of challenge, and taking advantage of us. Make no mistake. Those in power are there because they crave power, see an opportunity to further an agenda, and will do whatever it takes to maintain it.
Good bye GM. Ya’ll better pick up that Corvette, while you can. Good bye America.

In the Belly of the Liberal Beast

Yes, that is where I live.  Sort of akin to Jonah.  I wonder if I’m being tested.  This weekend we decided to venture even further into the beast’s entrails by taking a trip to Berkley.  I’ve been there once before, last September, to the campus of the University of California – Berkley, (for the Michigan State – CAL game, no less) and emerged unscathed, so I guess I’m feel like I can “stomach” it…  This was not a mission of self torture.  California is home to many examples of specific styles of residential architecture, of which Jenn and I are fans.  Well restored or maintained examples of Frank Lloyd Wright, Greene & Greene and vintage Craftsmen style abound in well maintained neighborhoods.  So it is a treat to see and tour these specimens in person.  The downside is you generally have to venture into enemy territory to do so, and endure the numerous Obama-Biden lawn signs, stickers and such.  So we (I) geared up and in we went.  Of course, I had to wear some garb with the opposing point of view, so I made sure to don my rifle team jacket and cammo Duracoat hat.  Small statements.  Overall, it was a most enjoyable day.

 

I will say that all college campuses feel the same to me.  Ever notice how for some reason, college students seem to lose all sense of cleanliness and order?  Is there a house where there are not couches on the front porch or in the yard (or scads of plastic cups or beer cans)?  Amazing.  Almost cultish. Of course, in East Lansing (MI), I think the couches are kept there at the ready in case the basketball team wins a championship, so it can be set on fire at a moment’s notice!

 

And who comes up with the properties that become frat houses?  Ever notice how some are mansion like?  Probably amazing places to live in and others look like a flop house, on the verge of condemnation?  What does that say about the fraternity?  Long traditions of beer bongs, kegs and general college mayhem? 

                                                                                                    

More about the beast’s belly.  I think it has indigestion. The economic situation is miserable out here.  Those of you that follow the news of the nation may know that along with the country as a whole, the economy in Kalifornia is pretty well in the toilet.  The state is 24 billion in the red, taxes are going up faster than the feds can spend our money, and well the whole thing is just a mess.  It makes one wonder how they plan on getting out of all the schmaz.  It seems like there is no end in sight to the debt or the spending.  Just fund it all with more taxes.

 

For example:  the state sales tax is about to go up 1%, which will put us close to 10%.  We might as well be living in Canada for God’s sake.  10% sales tax!  I guess that goes along with the 10% unemployment.  Just punish the folks that have jobs, cause they’re the only one that will be able to afford to buy stuff.

 

And that’s not the only thing going up.  DMV increased the fee (read tax rate) you pay for licensing your vehicle, almost double.  A friend just spent over a grand to license a vehicle.  Guys that last year paid $400 for their pickup are now paying close to $800.  $800 freaking dollars to get license tabs!  Damn.  I guess no one over here heard Obama say they were ONLY going to tax the rich, and no one making less that 250K was going to see their taxes go up.  I guess the feds are going to leave raping the working guy to the states.  Oh, and by the way, Arnold is first in line for the feds “assistance”.  Glad we’re getting some of that or, we’d all have to sell our cars…  But, I guess that is the price we pay to live in this wonderful, enlightened, eclectic, communist, errr, inclusive state.  All that comes with a price.

 

More madness…

 

Don’t know if this hit the National news or not, but 4 cops where shot in Oakland yesterday (3-21).  3 dead and one almost.  Two motorcycle cops make a traffic stop.  Perpetrator shoots both of them, and takes off on foot.  Area wide lock down as all forms of LEOs search for him.  They finally get a tip on his hide out.  SWAT team goes in and he kills two of them before they can out an end to the waste of life.  Oh, and by the way, the bad guy was a parolee, with a long list of violent crime convictions.  Anyone remember my comment on how Kali is planning on releasing thousands from the prisons because conditions are undesirable.  This situation is what’s undesirable.  This is the kind of crap that happens when the bleeding hearts are in charge.  I’m sure that there will be a call for more gun laws now.  Of course it doesn’t matter that the dirtbag couldn’t leagaly have any guns anyway.

 

Is there anything good going on?  Well, for my compadres in Michigan, spring has already sprung here.  Gotta love the weather.  Have I said that before?  I’m already cutting grass.  OK, maybe that’s not fun.  How about, I’m already sitting on the patio sipping bourbon and smoking a cigar without freezing my ass off…Nice.  I’m about to reach the half century mark here too.  Turning 50 in the belly of the beast.  I hope I can cause him some indigestion.

The Good, The Bad, The Ugly…

Well, bloggers, I’ve been a bit delinquent in posting, but lots have been going on, so let’s catch up.

 

In my last post, la famillia and I were enjoying the Christmas holidays here in Nor Cal, with trips to Alcatraz, Monterrey, and other local sights.  Lots of fun.  Ya can’t beat Christmas without snow and cold.

 

Since then, Jenn and I have been doing more exploring on our own.  A few weeks ago, we decided to take advantage of the King’s birthday weekend and drive up to Lake Tahoe.  What an amazing place.  Have I used the adjective “amazing” before to describe something in Kali?  Wow.  The weather was in the 40’s, so no chains required to get to the mountains.  Nice.  Beautiful weather and some of the most gorgeous scenery ever.  And I’ve seen some gorgeousness…  Stayed in this great old lodge, with a great bar and excellent food.  We took a trip up to Squaw Valley ski resort where the 1960 (?) Olympics were held.  Nice.  Cable car up to 8200 feet provided wonderful views.  And Lake Tahoe is spectacular.  Clearest lake I’ve ever seen.  You really have to experience it in person.  We drove around the perimeter of the lake, which is split between California and Nevada.  And then all at once it hit me.  A great idea!  I have not mentioned how restrictive firearms laws are in Kalifornia, but let me say right now that they ARE!!!!  Totally draconian.  Dictated me leaving many of my prized possessions back in Michigan…Anyway, I had this epiphany.  I could open a gun shop just on the Nevada side of the border at Lake Tahoe,  and be spitting distance to the California that Jenn has fallen in love with.  Yeah!  Since I’d be in Nevada, I figured that I could combine the gun shop with a brothel, sort of a Bunny Ranch, with hardware!  I thought it was a fabulous idea.  Jenn was not so supportive though.  Seemed better than supplementing the gun shop with a bait shop…  Even though my entrepreneurial ideas have been shot down, we’re definitely coming back for more fun and hiking during the non-snow time.

dynamic-duo

 

Speaking of hiking, Jenn’s a big fan of the hike, and I don’t mind pulling on the old boots and walking through nature, so we’ve gotten into hiking around here.  Again, kudos to Kalifornia.  The state, county, local authorities maintain tons of parks and preserve where you can follow numerous trails though the hill/ mountains/country side.  Lots of beautiful country to behold.  Lots of wild life too.  I’ve never been much of a bird watcher, but of course I enjoy bad ass birds of prey…I’ve seen more types of hawks and the occasional eagle while on hikes.  Great!  I always take binoculars on my hikes.   Up in the hills, you can sit and watch red tailed hawks soar and listen to their screams, and it’s all so damn cool.  Bobcats and the occasional mountain lion are listed as inhabitants of our parks also.  I want to see a mountain lion.  My buddy Tom thinks it would be a cool party icebreaker to relate my story of being attacked by a mountain lion, but I’m not going that far.  Seeing one is good enough for me.

 

Another aspect of hiking in this area is that much of the preserves open to the public are also open for ranchers to let cattle graze.  So you WILL run into cattle on your treks through hill and dale.  I’ve come to actually like and appreciate cows, beyond just being on my dinner plate.  Cows are cool.  Mostly just curious, they pretty much clear out when you are approaching on a trail.  However, I did have one day where I was destined to have bovine encounters of every kind.  One trek took me to a preserve right by the house that I can do a short loop through, just to break up the day.  Right.  My short loop turned into the entire loop, ‘cause every time I came to a cattle gate to go through, I’d run into 30-40 cattle, that had no intention of moving.  Fine.  I can go with the flow.  It actually took me through a great portion of the preserve, so I rolled with it.  The last gate to navigate was unfortunately guarded by Mr. stubborn Black Angus.  This guy was not getting moving away from the gate.  No persuasion was working and he out weighed me by literally a ton.  Fun.  I guess he didn’t realize that by fall, he’d probably be on my dinner plate (or maybe he did)!  Finally reason prevailed and I got through.

 

morgan-territory-valley2

 

Brushy Peak

Last weekend, we drove down to Carmel.  We passed through during the families visit on our trip to Monterrey, but did not stop.  Figured we’d come back to visit Clint, and all the boutique shops on our own.  Again, the weather cooperated and we had a great time.  Carmel is a unique place. Very cliché and very California.   Jenn had a good run of checking out the antique shops, and I held in there, LOL.  The coolest was this little bar we stopped at.  We had done Friday night Martini night, and of course Saturday, we were a little ruff.  By noon time, we decided a Bloody Mary was the ticket to easing our way though the afternoon.  Found this little bar that was no bigger than, well it was small, local, and perfect.  So perfect that I’m thinking that it is the last bar that folks actually smoke in the bar.  For those of you in the free United State, in Kalifornia, there is no smoking anywhere.  Well, except in your home, or car, err, you get the idea.

 

The bad.

 

What is up with California?  I hear one of the latest is that since the state is so broke, if they owe you a tax refund, you get an IOU.  What the hell is that?  What’s that good for?  Sorry, we have no money, we spent all yours that we took from you and we can’t give you back the overage we took from you.  What the hell is that?  Oh, and state workers, take off Fridays and you’re not getting paid.  Nice.  Sounds like an awful state of affairs.  Highest taxation that I’ve seen and the state is broke.  Here’s a good one for ya.  Before I moved, I made X amount of dollars in Michigan.  After move to Kali, I made less that X dollars for the balance of the year living in Kali.  Kali takes more taxes than Michigan.  Crazy.

 

The Ugly.

 

Some of you may have seen this on Drudge, (I did) but I also saw it on the 11 O’clock news.  Federal 3 judge panel in the state capitol (Sacramento) decides that prison conditions are unacceptable here, in the great state, and that the prisons will have to release tens of thousands of inmates, so conditions can become acceptable.  What?  They have unfavorable conditions?  It’s not fun?  Have to share a room?  No X-box?  Not feeling good about the experience?  It’s freaking PRISON!  You’re not supposed to be all feel good!  You’re a dirt bag!  How fucking stupid is that?  Just let them out and go back to feeling good, doing what they do, stealing, killing, raping.  Dumb ass judges.  Even Jenn was yelling at the TV over that one.  All the freaking bleeding hearts are gonna get their way.  Hope their heart is the one that’s bleeding when bubba, that got let go for humane reasons has plunged a knife in their sorry liberal ass while mugging them, or whatever.  In-freaking-sane.  I’d feel better in Detroit.  At least I could legally carry there, and have a fighting chance to defend myself.

 

Almost as stupid as spending a trillion dollars we don’t have t o “rescue” the economy…But, that’s another rant…

 

Bottom line though, is we really are enjoying our time here, even though there seems to be no brains running the place.  We’ve got more trips planned, I’ve been able to participate in shooting sports that were not available to me in Michigan (go figure), and we’re just having a good ole time.

 

I’ll be keeping y’all up to date.