This evening Debbie and I went to the Marine Birthday party celebrating 245 years of the Marine Corps. We arrived fashionably late, but in time for the ceremony, which was very well done. It included several inspirational readings and music, including Taps, the National Anthem and the Marine Corps Anthem. It was wonderful! We got to say hello to a few friends, and the Leathernecks MC served cake and BBQ plates. Couldn’t have asked for more. I hope the photos are to your liking. They asked me to take a group photo, which I did, but by then the light was all but gone, so it’s not too bad, but I wish it was better. Oh, and I apologize to those couple of people I cut off on the left of the group shot. My lens just wasn’t wide enough. Enjoy!

We had the annual COC&I chili cook-off today out at Time Out Sports Bar in Liberty Hill. It was an outdoor event, and was well attended. Everyone brought masks of course, but with the wonderful weather and brisk breeze, there were few health concerns. I did see a fair number of people wearing masks. Everyone attending this free event was given the opportunity to try over 20 chili styles, so it was quite a competition. I usually asked for a small portion in a tasting cup, but at least one crew handed me a full bowl of chili. Fortunately it was very good, so i chowed down and finished it easily. I did of course share with Debbie, at least most of the time. One of our newer chapter members (Kevin) joined us and got to meet lots of our friends and taste as many of the chilis as he could. After the tasting finished, we had the COC&I meeting, and heard from our legislative warriors about up-coming bills, and about the January 25th legislative day where we all go down to the capital to talk with your legislators. Apparently there are going to be a lot of changes from two years ago when we had the last one of these, but I’m sure it will be an interesting day to say the least. At the end of the meeting, the trophies were handed out for the chili-cook-off winners. The photos are in reverse winner order, third, second, first, and then peoples choice, so you can look at the photos to see who won. Then we had the raffle give-aways, finishing with drawing of the HOBO (Help Our Brothers Out) 100th anniversary Harley Davidson Road King winner. Turns out he was at the event, but went home. When we called him, he came right back and I was able to get his photo with the bike. Another wonderful event for the motorcycle riding community.

Debbie and I attended the Tornados MC 20th Anniversary Party today. We saw paul and Robin from our New Life Riders CMA chapter heading out as we were arriving. They had more stops to make. After we got inside, It was good to see and talk with friends and enjoy good food. 20 years is a long time for a Motorcycle Club to be around and Tornados MC is definitely a good one. Congratulations Tornados, on your 20 year milestone.