Mississippi Spring Fling

[Chrisj CMA]

An interesting fly just landed in the ointment.

Got a letter yesterday, a Summons to report on 28 March for jury duty that supposed to last for a week.   Well, that kind of interferes with my plans for Friday, 1 April, Mississippi Spring Fling.

The last thing I want to do is to be sitting in a jury box while all my friends and family are arriving at Ground Zero.   Maybe I won't get selected.   Although, I don't mind doing this in the least, it's timing really sucks.   I've got a lot of stuff to do that last week prior to the "Fling".

Guess we'll see where and how this goes.   Shrug.

Rams

Over age 65 can be excused from jury duty in MS.  J/S

Well, we resolved the conflict.   I got out of the jury duty for this week due to my family reunion. 

Actually, it was due to my age but, I will be put back into the jury pool for future “opportunities” by my own request.   I take my civic duty seriously.   

Rams

I take my civic responsibility serious too. I’ve been calked twice and picked zero. First time the trial canceled. Second time active duty candidates were all dismissed. That was 24 years ago and I’ve never been called up since. Glad you will make it to the get together.

[Serk]

Thread drift but it's keeping the thread active so:

Been called numerous times, have sat on 3 juries:

First     - Capital Murder.  (Drug deal gone bad, guilty. Life in prison.)
Second - Civil suit against Whataburger (Grandma walking granddaughter into bathroom, grandma slipped and fell, brought granddaughter down with her, granddaughter stuck her hang in the door jam as it was closing and lost the last 1/2" or so of 3 fingers. Whataburger did nothing wrong.
Third    - DWI - Guilty

First was definitely the most interesting, but second was rewarding in other ways.

[..]

Called 3 times and would have happily served each time.

I've been paid to "sit" on 6 trial juries.

[carolinarider09]

Its interesting, I lived in the same house/town for about 30 years before moving to my current home.

I have been called for jury duty, in my entire life, three times. 

I was called a few weeks ago but I declined based on the fact that I can due to age. 

Actually I'd love to server on a jury but with the way things are being handled today, I'd probably get ticked off by someone.   

Oh yes, I have been registered to vote my entire life (well maybe in the navy, I missed a few times). 

[trout dude]

Dose anyone coming to  the ride in Mississippi have a good black center cover they want to sell please let me know    Im looking for a friend that will be there an needs one Thanks in advance
Dennis

[Rams]

Dose anyone coming to  the ride in Mississippi have a good black center cover they want to sell please let me know    Im looking for a friend that will be there an needs one Thanks in advance
Dennis

Bump for that black center cover.

BTW, the truth is, I got out of the jury duty because I told them I knew troutdude.

Apparently, he's well known in these parts.   Not sure how or why but, it worked.  

Rams

[Jess from VA]

I've never been called for jury duty in my life.  (jinx me now)

In MI, licensed attorneys are (or were) exempt from service.  Not as some kind of perk, but because almost no trial lawyer wants a lawyer sitting on his jury, esp taking over as jury foreman (which if I served, I'd try to do).  And, based on what you do for a living as an attorney, one side or the other will almost always kick you off. They want you to follow the law as they tell you, not as you see it.  You know how to answer all questions so as not to get kicked off for cause, so they just use a peremptory challenge.  It's largely a waste of time for you and them.
 
No serving judge advocate sits on any military jury (all criminal trials).  Not that I ever heard of (in other than USAF).  

This is not the case in VA where I am registered 30 years.  If called, attorneys must show and go through selection (vior dire).  I have met some VA barristers who have served on juries.  It's up to state rules.

I did serve as bailiff on a MI Circuit Court (trial level) (and law clerk to the judge) for every jury trial for a year right after school.  Had to sit near them in trial, gently wake them if sleeping, escort them in and out of courtroom to jury room, make reservations and walk them to lunch, keep the lawyers and witnesses (and everyone) away from them, sit outside the jury room during deliberation, answer questions, walk written questions or requests for evidence to the judge, and deliver what I was told to.  Take possession of the slug (and brain fragments) and other physical evidence during trials.   Murder, rape, and other assorted crimes and civil suits.  

I once had to tackle a man who decided to run rather do time for nonpayment of child support (again).  Deputized as county sheriff for arrest powers in courtroom (and for limited liability), but no police training, and no gun, cuffs or club or badge (just football skills).

I had a small lockup near our courtroom.  

So even though I've never sat on a jury, I feel like I've served.  

[Rams]

I've never been called for jury duty in my life.  (jinx me now)

SNIP

So even though I've never sat on a jury, I feel like I've served.  

troutdude must be well known up that way also. 

Rams

[Jess from VA]

I've never been called for jury duty in my life.  (jinx me now)

SNIP

So even though I've never sat on a jury, I feel like I've served.  

troutdude must be well known up that way also. 

Rams

Wat?

[Rams]

I've never been called for jury duty in my life.  (jinx me now)

SNIP

So even though I've never sat on a jury, I feel like I've served.  

troutdude must be well known up that way also. 

Rams

Wat?

Just bumping the thread Jess, just bumping the thread........... 

Rams

[Rams]

I've reposted this information as a reminder to those who may be coming and have not made reservations at one of the facilities.   The locked in discount rate will not be applicable after 20 March so, if you're coming, Git R Dun.   Looking forward to seeing all my friends soon.

Mississippi Spring Fling (a social gathering) is set.

Dates: 1-3 April, 2022

Ground Zero will be Double Tree by Hilton and I have negotiated a discounted rate from their normal rates.   This is an active weekend here in Hattiesburg, there are other events also going on here.  

Rates are as follows:
$99.00 + tax without breakfast in their restaurant
$109.00 + tax with breakfast for two people per room

Reservation cutoff dates for these rates is 3/20/2022, after that any rooms will go for their regular rate of $159.00 + Tax and up.  

Doubletree by Hilton Hattiesburg, MS (Ground Zero)
10 Gateway Drive
Hattiesburg, MS 39402

601-296-0302

Candlewood Suites (Back Up facility, right next door)
9 Gateway Drive
Hattiesburg, MS
Same rates as GZ.

601-264-9666

When you call to make reservations, be sure to ask for the Hub City Valkyries discount. [/b]

Double Tree has it's own restaurant and bar for those interested.

Currently, Mac and Warlock have volunteered to let anyone that wants to ride follow them to discrete destinations.  
What happens in Hattiesburg, stays in Hattiesburg.


I have arranged for a designated motorcycle parking area for us and a wash area where the hotel will provide water, a hose and towels to dry bike or bodies off with at the wash area.  
I'm working on a Saturday night dinner gathering of some kind but, that is still up in the air.  


There is fuel available from several different fuel stations very close to GZ and several other eating establishments a very short ride away.

We of Hub City Valkyries are looking forward to seeing all of our two, three and four wheeled friends again, we don't care what you ride or how you get here, just plan on a good time.

Rams
A listing of those attending:
Rams          MS
Warlock       MS
Mac & Elna   MS
Smokin' Joe  TN
John Smith  KY
Jason & Amber GA
Serk & Serk Jr.   TX
Phil & Becky    IN
Ron Overburg  TX
Casey Loyd
Toby Williamson
Buddy & Karen Hammond  OK
Shane Helmer
Terry Penrose    TN
Mark Clauder   TX
Preston Mathis  TN
Motomama & Willow KS
f6gal & Psycho   AZ
DDT  &  John Smith  FL (sometimes)
Sweet Cheeks  AL
Wood Butcher and Erin  FL
Farside & ChrisJ
Troutdude & Ladybug  LA
John & Ellen    MS
Ken Tarver   MS
Jim & Lynn   SC
Leon & co-rider   AL
Mitcho & Laura  TN
Jim & Laura  IL
Sergio   MS
Danny & Charlene   MS
Jimmy & Steph   TN
Thomas and Co-Rider LA
Terry, Phil, Bec & Lani
Woodie & Sondra  MS
Richard Spurlock    PA
RNFWP & HubcapSC
Mike Casper
Harold Sevin
Thomas Taylor
LaShawn Brumfield Smith
Rda Bull   OH
Charlie & Brenda   TX
Suthrncop, Kristie & Joesph AL
Brandi & co-rider    LA
Ken Wimer
Skip Larson
Grandpot    SC
R & Suzie Bowers
Bruce Brinnick  TX
Binkie. TN
Larry
Digger  (Terry & Terry)  TX
Stanley Steamer   GA
Britman   GA
Skinhead     MI  (Definite Maybe)
Bob & Anna   MS
Greg M    SC?
Jeff McKay    FL


YOU MUST REQUEST ONE OF THE ROOMS I HAVE BLOCKED UNDER MY NAME AT THE BACKUP FACILITY
Am happy to assist anyone as much as I can to make this a fun event for anyone that wants to come.


Rams

[Rams]

Just a reminder that today is the last day for the discounted price at both facilities.

Rams

[Skinhead]

Rams,

It looks like you can change me from a definite maybe to extremely probable.  I have to head back down to NOLA on Thursday (Taking the wing this time) so I plan on being at GZ on Friday.  I was going to head down with the cool kids, but my dog sitting services are required before then.

[Rams]

Rams,

It looks like you can change me from a definite maybe to extremely probable.  I have to head back down to NOLA on Thursday (Taking the wing this time) so I plan on being at GZ on Friday.  I was going to head down with the cool kids, but my dog sitting services are required before then.

Excellent news, looking forward to seeing you.

If you talk nice to the hotel desk, you still might be able to get the discounted rate.   Can't say for sure because the last day for registering and getting that discount was 3/20/2022.   It never hurts to ask. 
 
Of course, this assumes you haven't already addressed that.   

Rams

[f6john]

The countdown to the Fling has been moving faster lately (for me anyways) and I was beginning to wonder if I would be ready in time. Happily I scored some motor oil in the next town over from Richmond at Rural King. Oil in certain viscosities is really spotty in Richmond especially if you want synthetic and Rotella T6, forget about it. I don’t have any specific service history on my 20k mile bike so I felt compelled to at least get the oil changed before my first road trip. I’d really like to check/change the air filter too but that would put to much pressure on me given what looks to be a major job for a first timer on an 1800. I think I may have to make the trip without highway pegs, Rivco’s must be made of gold.

Caged it to last years Inzane, happy to be on two wheels again for this get together. Seems I’ll see some old faces as well as some new, can’t wait!

[..]

Anyone thinking of riding down to New Orleans?

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-10638273/Louisiana-Mississippi-Alabama-warned-storm-approaches.html

The tornado appeared to start in a New Orleans suburb and then move east across the Mississippi River into the Lower 9th Ward of New Orleans and parts of St. Bernard Parish - both of which were badly damaged by Katrina - before moving northeast.

[Skinhead]

Rams,

It looks like you can change me from a definite maybe to extremely probable.  I have to head back down to NOLA on Thursday (Taking the wing this time) so I plan on being at GZ on Friday.  I was going to head down with the cool kids, but my dog sitting services are required before then.

Excellent news, looking forward to seeing you.

If you talk nice to the hotel desk, you still might be able to get the discounted rate.   Can't say for sure because the last day for registering and getting that discount was 3/20/2022.   It never hurts to ask. 
 
Of course, this assumes you haven't already addressed that.   

Rams

I'm all set room wise.  Rooming with Binkie.

[Smokinjoe-VRCCDS#0005]

Rams,

It looks like you can change me from a definite maybe to extremely probable.  I have to head back down to NOLA on Thursday (Taking the wing this time) so I plan on being at GZ on Friday.  I was going to head down with the cool kids, but my dog sitting services are required before then.

Excellent news, looking forward to seeing you.

If you talk nice to the hotel desk, you still might be able to get the discounted rate.   Can't say for sure because the last day for registering and getting that discount was 3/20/2022.   It never hurts to ask. 
 
Of course, this assumes you haven't already addressed that.   

Rams

I'm all set room wise.  Rooming with Binkie.

Y'all riding down with us ... Correct ?

[Skinhead]

Y'all riding down with us ... Correct ?

That's all kind of up in the air right now Joe.  With the tornado that hit NOLA last night, Eric's scheduled work may have been pushed, and the weather here in MI isn't great right now.  I'll know more later.

[Rams]

Rams,

It looks like you can change me from a definite maybe to extremely probable.  I have to head back down to NOLA on Thursday (Taking the wing this time) so I plan on being at GZ on Friday.  I was going to head down with the cool kids, but my dog sitting services are required before then.

Excellent news, looking forward to seeing you.

If you talk nice to the hotel desk, you still might be able to get the discounted rate.   Can't say for sure because the last day for registering and getting that discount was 3/20/2022.   It never hurts to ask.  
 
Of course, this assumes you haven't already addressed that.  

Rams

I'm all set room wise.  Rooming with Binkie.

Good to know, thanks for the notice.

UPDATE:   I got a couple of calls this morning from some folks who didn't get reservations at GZ in time to get the discounted rate.   I made a couple of calls and went up the ladder far enough that I got the last  five rooms in the hotel at the discounted rates.   ALL FIVE ROOMS are the KING Rooms, that's all that's left (I'm told) and that discount ends tomorrow night 3/24/2022 at midnight.   Be assured, that's all I can get according to my contact and she was surprised I was able to even get that.

I also again reminded my contact that she promised me a "Wash Area" with hose, towel and soap for the bikes.   Personally, I think I'd use my own soap because I have no idea what soap might be provided (if that actually shows up).   She thanked me for reminding her because that had completely slipped her mind.  

Rams

So, as of this posting there are still five King Rooms available until 3/24/2022 midnight.   If you're coming and need a room, that's it for Double Tree.   Although there are still rooms available at the same rates across the parking lot at Candlewood Suites.

[Serk]

You remind them that if a wash area isn't set up, that's okay, we'll just use the hotel towels to wash the road grime off....

(Joking, I don't wash my bikes... )

[Rams]

You could use remind them that if a wash area isn't set up, that's okay, we'll just use the hotel towels to wash the road grime off....

(Joking, I don't wash my bikes... )

Actually, that's precisely what I warned them could happen.   No, I'm not joking. 

Rams

[Reb]

Rams,

It looks like you can change me from a definite maybe to extremely probable.  I have to head back down to NOLA on Thursday (Taking the wing this time) so I plan on being at GZ on Friday.  I was going to head down with the cool kids, but my dog sitting services are required before then.

Excellent news, looking forward to seeing you.

If you talk nice to the hotel desk, you still might be able to get the discounted rate.   Can't say for sure because the last day for registering and getting that discount was 3/20/2022.   It never hurts to ask. 
 
Of course, this assumes you haven't already addressed that.   

Rams

I'm all set room wise.  Rooming with Binkie.

Y'all riding down with us ... Correct ?

Where is the mustering point at in Clinton?

[Skinhead]

Ron and Joe,

Well, as expected, my son's work schedule has changed and therefore so have my travel plans.  I now will be heading down to the Binkmore Estate on March 31, and we will be meeting up with you in Clinton and riding to Hattiesburg with the cool kids.

[Rams]

Excellent, I love it.   Looking forward to seeing and visiting with you.  
Ride safe!!

Rams  

[Rams]

Just as a reminder to anyone still seeking to stay at GZ, the extended discount period ends tonight at midnight.  Only King Rooms are left.
 Candlewood, the backup site (across the parking lot) still has rooms available.

I'm seriously looking forward to seeing all my brothers and sisters soon, please ride safely and watch yer six.   Don't care what you ride or how you get here.

BTW, the Lying Contest will begin at noon on Friday, come prepared.  Connie can tell some whoppers!

Rams  

[..]

For anyone using the trace as part of their routing.


https://www.natcheztracetravel.com/gas-stations/map.html#34.6619757/-88.2632334/10/cats/20181;20182

[Rams]

Just so no one is surprised. (Pretty sure I already mentioned I don't like surprises.)   On Saturday (before it gets dark), I'd like to get a group photo with all my friends, family and even those who aren't sure about me.    Don't care how you're dressed (Stated just in case Cousin Cletus comes) or if you comb yer hair (Scooby).   Just be prepared to have your picture taken cause if you aren't, it'll probably get taken anyway.  

Edited:   Skirts and Kilts, not encourage while riding but just fine for the pictures.  

Rams  

[..]

Weather forecast is telling me rain for my departure day - Thursday.

What to do? What to do? What to do?

LEAVE on Wednesday!!! An extra day of riding.

[f6john]

I am hoping, praying actually that the forecast gets revised. Wednesday, hmmmm

[Rams]

I am hoping, praying actually that the forecast gets revised. Wednesday, hmmmm

Bring it on down, I've got some yard work, fence building, firewood splitting and a few other things you can do to take up your idle time. 

Rams 

[Farside]

Now this is early but Not too bad really. I think the worse will move out on Thursday night and Friday AM. Then Saturday is a chance of wet stuff but maybe a hit & miss.  

[Serk]

As someone who grew up in the buckle of the Bible belt, wanna check out the moistness level of ground zero.... Is it dry, moist or wet? (I.E. Dry - "Son, you shoulda gotten some hooch when you could 40 miles back!", Moist "Beer and wine available at every gas station" or Wet "Whisky! Get your Whisky here!")

Just checking if I need to Cannonball Run some of the good stuff in with me or if it's easier to pick some up nearby....

Thanks!

[Serk]

And count all the above as a free bump... There's a "Eagle Discount Liquor & Wine" 0.8 miles from ground zero.....

See ya'll *Hic* there!

[Rams]

And count all the above as a free bump... There's a "Eagle Discount Liquor & Wine" 0.8 miles from ground zero.....

See ya'll *Hic* there!

This is/was information I was going to release closer to the actual event.   There are numerous opportunities for the purchase of "Spirits" not all that far from GZ.  Further than most folks would want to walk but, GZ also has a bar for those who partake of such products.   I did happen to check on Russian Vodka at a few Class Six stores yesterday, not a single bottle to be found.

Rams

[DIGGER]

Well…..I took a ride into the Texas Bluebonnets this weekend.   Stopped to watch some skydivers coming down near Skydive Houston.  First time ever my 2001 Valkyrie wouldnt turn over when i hit the starter button.   Just a loud click and all went dead.  Turn the key off and back on and all lights come up till i hit the starter button and a loud click and all went dead.   Battery is fairly new.    Believe it or not I push started the beast and it worked.   Got home and tried to restart and a loud click and all went dead.    Started trouble shooting and found positive terminal on battery was not tight.   All is well now.   My tires are iffy for the trip with 9,500 miles on the rear and 14,000 on the front so made the decision to get new tires do i dropped it off at local dealer.   I know you aint supposed to do any work on your bike right before a trip but i have just been too busy to get stuff done.   Im still on track for the Fling.  The dealer has promised me my bike back wednesday eve.   As long as all goes as planned and the weather forcast is even remotely ok ill be there….my Harley buddy has dropped out.   He just got back from the Texas hill country with a group of 9 Harleys riding the 3 Twisted Sisters.  On 336 one of them crashed.  He had to be lifelighted to San Antonio where they found a broken rib has punctured one of his kidneys.  They seem to think after surgery he will be ok.   The guy is an older guy, Im sorry it happened.  My buddy said the Harley is definately totaled.   

[Rams]

Well…..I took a ride into the Texas Bluebonnets this weekend.   Stopped to watch some skydivers coming down near Skydive Houston.  First time ever my 2001 Valkyrie wouldnt turn over when i hit the starter button.   Just a loud click and all went dead.  Turn the key off and back on and all lights come up till i hit the starter button and a loud click and all went dead.   Battery is fairly new.    Believe it or not I push started the beast and it worked.   Got home and tried to restart and a loud click and all went dead.    Started trouble shooting and found positive terminal on battery was not tight.   All is well now.   My tires are iffy for the trip with 9,500 miles on the rear and 14,000 on the front so made the decision to get new tires do i dropped it off at local dealer.   I know you aint supposed to do any work on your bike right before a trip but i have just been too busy to get stuff done.   Im still on track for the Fling.  The dealer has promised me my bike back wednesday eve.   As long as all goes as planned and the weather forcast is even remotely ok ill be there….my Harley buddy has dropped out.   He just got back from the Texas hill country with a group of 9 Harleys riding the 3 Twisted Sisters.  On 336 one of them crashed.  He had to be lifelighted to San Antonio where they found a broken rib has punctured one of his kidneys.  They seem to think after surgery he will be ok.   The guy is an older guy, Im sorry it happened.  My buddy said the Harley is definately totaled.   

Digger,
Sorry to learn about the crash, hope all turns out well.   Reference working on your bike prior to an adventure, I think it's foolish to not address issues you know could be an issue.   Looking forward to seeing and visiting with you.  Be safe on your trek to Hattiesburg.

Rams

[Serk]

I know you aint supposed to do any work on your bike right before a trip

Good advice. That's why I'm paying someone ELSE to tear my Goldwing apart and do some of the most invasive maintenance one does to a Gold Wing right before a trip instead of doing it myself!

[f6john]

I know you aint supposed to do any work on your bike right before a trip

Good advice. That's why I'm paying someone ELSE to tear my Goldwing apart and do some of the most invasive maintenance one does to a Gold Wing right before a trip instead of doing it myself!

Air filter?

[bill-jr]

New avon front tire, fresh oil change , hope to see ya’ll there
Hey hubcapsc , see ya there . . .
Only 427 mile for me to get there . .
Anyone interested in a three piece chrome center and side covers gonna be there
I got some cobra radiator covers too but they are pricey .