Wheezy Rider.pub - Ulysses Club in WA
Transcription
Wheezy Rider.pub - Ulysses Club in WA
Dec 2008 No 90 Newsletter of the Fremantle Branch of the Ulysses Club of Australia Inc HI All Seasons greetings to you. Well a lot of things have been going on since the last Wheezy Rider. The best news is our Bruce & Joy eloped to Port Headland and got married on the beach. Very romantic so all the best Mr & Mrs Davies well done from all your friends at Fremantle. Incidentally Bruce tells me he hopes to get out on a few more rides in the future …….let’s hope so. We have had some sad news as well with the death of life member and ex President of Ulysses Ian (Huggie) Rawlings and George Robinson who helped establish Armadale Ulysses Branch and was their first President. Both did their bit for the Ulysses Club and will be remembered.. It’s been a flat out month with the Annual weekend away to Jurien Bay and a good time was had by all. Sometimes I think it may have run its course however it looks like members look forward to the Jurien ride so as long as members want to go I am happy to organize it. We have had some great race meetings at Wanneroo. The King of Wanneroo went off well with some very fast Irish racers at the meeting. Joan and I went with Coral and Douglas and we were treated to some good close racing and the Sidecars were just great . The four of us had a great day at the Australian Historic Championships; what a joy to Price $1.00 see and hear the old bikes again. I am sure Douglas had a tear in his eye at times and it brought back many memories for me as Norton Matchless and A.J S were the bikes to have when I started to spectate in the early 60’s. Then to see and hear again Yamaha two-strokes and the big Japanese four-cylinder bikes that I used to race in the 70-80’s. A big plus for Douglas and I was when we were present when an old 1925 Dunelt fired and ran for the first time in 55 years! Yes what a day, all you could hope for and much more. Shame we only host the championships every five years…... you should have gone . O.K don’t forget the Christmas party at Steve and Kaylene’s beautiful house just perfect for a party. The Branch will supply the meat and buns just bring along a small salad or sweets and enjoy yourself. You can camp, sleep in the house or workshop so please please NO DRINK RIDING OR DRIVING. Hope to see you there . All the best for Christmas and New Year from Bill & Joan and don’t forget if it isn’t fun don’t do it! We don’t care….We ride there Page1 FREMANTLE BRANCH MEETING 2ND THURSDAYOF THE MONTH AT SWAN YACHT CLUB. WEB ADDRESSES www.ulyssesclub.org Main Ulysses site www.ulyssesfremantle.iinet.net.au The committee is the servant of the Group, not the Master Ulysses Fremantle site 2006/2007 COMMITTEE cruza52@iinet.net.au Web Master Leo Van President Bill Lawrence Memb. No 22323 Dalsen Tel 94572720 billlawrence@ozemail.com.au Vice President Committee Robin Bosse Memb. No 34615 mikesmit@iinet.net.au Editors address Tel 95861512 robad@iinet.net.au Secretary James Kirton No 43205 Ph 08 93102742 RIDE CALENDAR James.ki@bigpond.net.au Treasurer Coral Lukies No 42576 Ph 94172494 Sat 13th Dec Mandurah Toy Run. Meet at the Rabrownd@bigpond.net.au venswood Hotel for 10 am departure. Committee Dick Berry No 17089 Ph 92849184 Dick.Berry@dli.wa.gov.au Sat 13th Dec Christmas Party See add page 10 Committee Eric Ilett No Ph 93542415 Mob 0418950755 ericilett@yahoo.com.au Sun 14th Dec Free Ride Committee Douglas Brown Memb 42575 Ph 94172494 brownd@bigpond.net.au Sat 20th/Sun 21st Dec. Margaret River Ride Committee Jerry Fleming No 43198 Ph 0419904813 Sorry…..fully booked jerry@transteel.com.au Ride Coordinator Anthony Collins No Sun 28th Dec. No ride scheduled Ph 93864154 collinschemist@hotmail.com Editor Mike Smith Memb No 9852 2009 Ride Calendar Tel 0429-904822 mikesmit@iinet.net.au AROUND THE BRANCHES ARMADALE BRANCH OLD NARROGIN INNE, ARMADALE Joseph Gabriel President 93975837 Secretary Richard Peddel 93908764 BUNBURY BRANCH Greg Baker 08 97263356 Email gbaker@docep.gov.au ESPERANCE BRANCH Steve “Homer” Smith 90712495 GERALDTON BRANCH Bruce Ralph 08-99642392 0427-642-392 Bruce Ralph ralphy@wn.com.au Last Wed at Freemason’s Hotel. 1830 meal 1930 meeting kianooka@bigpond.com.au JOONDALUP GROUP President Larry Smith 0430538244 Secretary Steve Ells 0405699265 MANDURAH BRANCH Trevor Johnson 0418916999 allstar@aapt.nat.au PERTH BRANCH President Kurt Mueller 92777134 Editor Dot Camerer secretary@git.com.au WARNBRO SOUND WANDERERS Chris Glover Ride Coordinator 95934425 Compland@dodo. com.au Chris Phillips Secretary 95942990 wswsec@iprimus.com.au Julie Wilcox 95931905 wilcox50@iinet.net.au RAINBOW COAST RIDERS President Joe Urquhart 98408228 Ray Prior - prior1@aapt.net.au KALGOORLIE www.kalwaulysses.com johnandleanne@westnet.com.au Sun 4th Jan Sun 11th Jan Depart Armadale at 8:00 am for a brekky run to Serpentine Dam and depending on the weather a possible run down to Dwellingup and Nanga Brook Road. Mike Smith 0429904822 Sat 17th Jan Zaretsky Multifunction Party Steve & Kaylene on 93972432 are holding a retirement, 50th, 25th anniversary, going away, whatever party. BYO everything including your sense of humour. COMING EVENTS 28th Feb 2009 Manjimup weekend AGM Penrith 16th~ 21st March DISCLAIMER. All expressions of opinion are published on the basis that they are not to be regarded as expressing the official opinion of the Ulysses Club but are included for general interest only. The Ulysses Club Fremantle Branch accepts no responsibility for the accuracy of any of the opinions or information contained in the Wheezy Rider and readers should rely on their own enquiries in making any decisions touching their own interest. Errors and omissions excepted. Publication of articles at Editors discretion Page2 GIRLIE BITS This was written by a well known lady in the East, Michelle otherwise known as “The Kid” who herself is the daughter of well known Ulyssians. Way back when I got to know a very strong-willed lady called Joan Smyth. Let’s say I got to know her because more than often she was ignored by some young bucks who thought because she walked funny or spend time in a wheelchair that she was not a biker. This lady was a truly special one indeed. Her early years as a toddler/young woman were spent fighting Polio and numerous other childhood diseases. She spent more than her fair share of time in callipers unable to move a single limb. Through it all she kept on going with a spirit that amazes me to this very day. Why? Well she also had 2 strains of Muscular Dystrophy which ultimately took her mobility from her. What can I say? It took a long time for the nasties to catch up with her spirit and her death a few years ago. As a teenager she took up cycling to strengthen her already doomed body. Cycling, sailing, guns, and motorbikes [not in any particular order] kept her focused for nearly 80 years. By the time she saw her first bike she was ‘in love’. She spent the greater part of her life following that passion. She rode her beloved TR5 everywhere: across roads that some of the rest would still call unchartered/unmapped land! She worked as a mechanic [on bikes of course], and she had a kitchen with cupboards full of motorcycle related gear. She was probably the most well-known woman rider in the 40’s – 70’s in the Brisbane area – and one of the most ‘talented’. I’ve met more than a few of her old mates and seen photos that would curl people’s hair! I got to know Joan in her later life [knew her for about 20 years before her death a few years ago]. By this time she had slowed a bit and could no longer ride a bike [Post Polio and Muscular Dystrophy] – but that passion was simply part of her. An old Trumpy was parked proudly in her garage and even though she couldn’t ride it, others could. That made her day. It either went first kick, or 3 hours later [usually the latter]. If anyone could have seen her smile when that bike finally kicked you’d understand what the Ulysses spirit is all about. Mumbles to self – ‘Bloody straight –thru exhaust’. Me? Well I was normally over in the corner of the garage exhausted [after the compulsory ride of course]! Because of my work commitments then, I had the luxury of popping into to see her twice a day. I also got to take her places to see her beloved bikes, and meet up with all and sundry. On occasions that meant some pretty big planning. As time went on her body contorted into shapes that are just inhumane. The pain she felt just moving outside the door was considerable. That never stopped her. I was lucky enough to learn how to move her so it was never a problem. Some others cracked her ribs in the attempt – but she still kept on going. If there was a motorcycling event on and she was in hospital she’d discharge her- self [not all the time – sometimes it was just too much]. She truly did love her motorcycling and the freedoms it brought. In 2001 she went to her only AGM. In all the years she’d been a Ulyssian, she’d never been able to attend and I was determined it was going to happen. The Gold Coast was just down the road. It couldn’t happen on a bike – so it was a medicab. For what it’s worth [and trust me there was some heartache for everyone concerned], that day was a day she re-lived over and over again – it was something that stays with me forever. She’d been in hospital before the day and was quickly back in after that day – but that day was special. My friend Joan was someone special and someone who to me epitomised the Ulyssian spirit. Her love of bikes never diminished even though her body was destroyed. For 15 years she, Mum and I did everything possible given the constraints. As I wasn’t an Ulyssian until 2001, Mum like Joan had been a Ulyssian for a very long time I had many AGM badges from years as being a guest of Mum. Every one of those badges went to Joan – everywhere I went I picked up something for her. She taught me a lot about life bikes and showed me a spirit that very few have. Who was Joan Smyth? Ulysses Member No 15. The number however is irrelevant - it could be 51000. For anyone who might think it’s un-Ulyssian to turn up in/on/by anything other than a bike – check your ‘spirit levels’. For the most part these people are determined to get there no matter what they need to do along the way. Match that up against someone who says I’m not going because I can’t ride my bike. I don’t think there’s much doubt on who has the Ulysses Spirit. M The new Kawasaki 1700 V-Twin Voyager Page3 FOR SALE Yamaha YZF-R6 2002 30,000 kms Yoshimura Exhaust $8,000 o.n.o. Contact Christina on 0405 585 897 A WARM WELCOME AWAITS YOU AT THE YERECOIN TAVERN GREAT HOME COOKED MEALS COLDEST BEER FOR MILES B B Q FACILITIES. LIMITED OVER NIGHT ACCOMMODATION DISCOUNT ON ADVANCE GROUP BOOKINGS SECURE PARKING FOR BIKES CONTACT YOUR HOSTS CHARLIE & DI CLARKE [Ulysses members] PHONE 9654 6032 E MAIL check.point@bigpond.com From Eric Ilett……..I look like being unable to attend the Penrith AGM because I have to leave for work on 24th March. I have booked a tent in tent city sharing with Steve Sawtell, so obviously the berth is now available and Steve would be happy to share with someone else if they are looking for accommodation. The cost will be $170 for the week which I have already paid and anyone who wants the place can pay me and will have to notify HO of the change of name. I'll be back in Perth on New Years day and will be at the Jan. meeting. Thanks ……...Eric Suzuki SV650S Blue 2000 6000 kms. Remus Muffler Registered to 22/10/08 $6,000.00 will consider offers Contact Trudy on 0417 977 748 for further details Phone 0488-751-957 Page4 CHOOK DROPPINGS By Stick E Beak Greetings Chooks one and all………...old Sticky E Beak has been at it again as you will see on this page. The annual “Find The Sea” trip to Jurien Bay was another great success although we did miss the “Pole Dancer” as he was away building up Brownie Points in Adelaide! The trip up was in two rides, the players and the stayers. Of course your faithful scribe was as always one of the stayers however we did still arrive first! Once the players were sworn in the usual gravitation towards the briny took place however once again as in previous years a need to slake ones thirst got in the way and we never made it. Once back at the Apex Park the lies and stories were being told in all directions. There is evidence some where of a certain scribe firing up chops “flambe” on the BBQ however all was carried out to the Chef’s (Ross “Cop this” Hook) satisfaction and there was even some left over for brekky. A most fearsome brew of Rice Wine which had a very strong flavour of fibre glass resin after it was placed in styro foam cups was served as a liqueur and was responsible for some to see more than one fire wrok dsplay at oance later in the evening.! Geoff then made sure that we were all absolved from blame before we retired, fell or collapsed into our own (?) beds at various times before dawn. One person did manage to fall UP the stairs at some ungodly hour and was last seen in a giggling heap. There were other events including the “Pot Luck” evening and we are all indebted to Pam and Paul for the use of their house for the night. We were unable to attend (grandies buffdays) however I know that every one will have had a great time and many thanks again Pam and Paul. Which leaves me with one final pleasure and that is to wish everyone a safe and Merry Christmas and the Happiest of New Years. Let us hope too that John Nisbet is soon over the last of the chemo and he can then start the long and hopefully successful road to recovery from what has been one hell of a year for him and Julie. Page5 Travel in time in style: BMW K 1300 GT. Another new K 1300 introduced by BMW at Intermot is the sport tourer designated K 1300 GT. BMW's goal is usable power -- meaning big mid-range, rather than peak horsepower, from the new engine. The new GT also features new switchgear, instrumentation and other elements to provide a platform for swift and comfortable touring. Here is what BMW had to say. The BMW Motorrad 4-cylinder combines superior power with sporty understatement. And a striking set of technical data, too. What the new inline 4-cylinder in the BMW K 1300 S, R and GT models has to offer is truly impressive. Punctually for the 25th anniversary of the K Series, BMW Motorrad is presenting three new peak performers in the “Champions’ League”. The new Gran Tourismo is probably one of the fastest gliders about. A new era in long-distance travel began when BMW Motorrad started building the “GT”. The distances that can be covered in comfort on this motorcycle are astounding but just as fascinating is its performance at low revs. In the lower and middle rev range, where more than 80% of road riding takes place, this engine really packs a punch. And you’ll feel it straight away: 140 Nm from 1,293 cc. And 160 bhp for the three-lane highway. Compared to the performance category the 4-cylinder is very restrained when it comes to fuel consumption and emissions. New digital engine electronics settings as well as a modified exhaust system with 3-way catalytic converter are the reasons. Once again BMW Motorrad illustrates how modern engines should be built. BMW Motorrad has always set standards when it comes to designing tourers. This is once again the case with the BMW K 1300 GT. There is probably no other motorcycle which provides better wind and weather protection and makes fast travelling so comfortable under all conditions. The unusually narrow, dynamically cut and aerodynamically optimised full fairing emphasises the bike’s character by placing an air slit in the side trim. This feature emphasises the independent and unmistakeable style which is what makes BMW Motorrad tourers so special. The Duolever front wheel guidance - introduced in the BMW K 1200 S - with its newly designed lower longitudinal strut, safeguards even higher riding precision and maximum riding stability in the BMW K 1300 GT. The firm spring/damper settings give the rider perfect road feedback. Optimised chassis geometry for optimum straight-line running, mass concentration and a constructionally designed low centre of gravity provide a dynamic riding experience, ease of handling and a balance which are simply thrilling in a tourer. However, there is even more to all this perfection. The K 1300 GT can be fitted with the optional ESA II, the electronically adjustable 2nd generation suspension. The spring base, spring rate and damping are synchronised – automatically. Uniquely comfortable and more precise than ever before the rider can adjust the suspension of the K 1300 GT to the load and road surface conditions to open up a new dimension of riding stability combines with optimum response. ABS is standard on this model, the ASC Automatic Stability Control is available as an option. It’s no news that a BMW motorcycle offers the best ergonomics around but it is nevertheless something special. Because relaxed yet active riding is only possible with well-balanced ergonomic. Especially on the tourers BMW Motorrad has always put great emphasis on making the pillion passenger ride in comfort. Perfect ergonomics include an absolutely long-distance suitable seat bench, pleasant step-over dimensions and good controls. In the new K models the new generation of switches for all coming BMW motorcycles has been introduced for the first time. Ergonomics have been optimised, space requirements have been reduced and MID technology* has been introduced. In short – the controls simply feel and look better. The BMW K 1300 GT represents the new Champions’ League for dynamic travel and sets the standard for Gran Tourismos on two wheels. *Moulded Interconnect Design, printed circuits in the switch unit instead of individual wiring. Page6 CHRISTMAS HAMPER Please bring your Christmas goodies to the next two meetings for the Barrel Girl to put into the Hamper to be won at the Christmas Party to be held at the Zaretsky Ranch on the 13th December! The more the merrier Hohoho! Tony Collins believes in starting them young! Herewith a couple of pics of young Jack checking out the CD stacker on the Wing and fettling Grandad’s Trumpy! N i ce Ed c le an floo r t he re To ny! Brake out the champers ABS has become well and truly affordable Anti-lock braking is the way of the future. Not only is it an allround good thing and becoming better, it’s also going to be required on almost all bikers eventually by European standards. Get used to it, and learn to love it, it’s a good thing. You don’t, on the other hand, need a litre or 1200 cc displacement and suspension length that would make a stork go green with envy to leave the tar behind. Even in Australia, one of the world’s toughest environments for motorcycles, a smaller and lighter bike can actually make life easier for you while you’re sampling the pleasures of the bush. Okay, you are not going to get the awesome capabilities of a BMW R1200GS or a KTM Adventure. But it may well be that you don’t want them, either. The major weakness of the Suzuki V-Strom 650, however, is that it’s not really set up to go off road at all. The lack of a bash plate leaves the exhaust and the oil filter worryingly unprotected. The oil cooler does get a lightweight little screen, but the main radiator once again has nothing to protect it. Front fork stanchion protection is also inadequate. Where there is a shield, over the one-sided exhaust, it gets too hot to use throwover panniers. This is simply impractical and if you want to do any halfway serious travelling you’ll need to invest in an aftermarket bash plate, a guard for each of the coolers and some kind of rack to keep your fabric panniers cool. Shame – this could have been addressed so easily. But then again, it’s very hard to think of anything else to criticise on this V-Strom. As one of my mates said after he climbed off the Suzuki: “It’s just so easy to ride!” He’s quite right. And complete with ABS, the price is better than just right at $10,490! Quickspecs Model: Suzuki V-Strom 650 ABS Price: $10,490 (plus on-road charges) Warranty: Two years, unlimited distance Power: 49kW @ 8800rpm Torque: 60Nm @ 6400rpm Engine: Liquid cooled 90 degree V-twin, 8 valve DOHC, fuel injection and digital ignition Bore x stroke: 81 x 62.6mm Displacement: 645cc Compression: 11.5:1 Transmission: Six-speed, wet multi-plate clutch, final drive by O-ring chain Suspension: Front, 41mm telescopic fork, preload adjustable, travel 150mm. Rear, lever-type monoshock, preload and rebound damping adjustable, 150mm travel. Dimensions: Seat height 820mm, weight 197kg (dry), fuel capacity 22 litres, wheelbase 1555mm Tyres: Front, 110/80 19. Rear, 150/70 17 Frame: Twin spar aluminium alloy Brakes: Front, twin 310mm discs with two piston floating calipers. Rear, 260mm disc. Top speed: 180km/h Acceleration: 0-100km/h: 4.5 sec 60-100km/h: 5.8 sec Fuel consumption: 4 litres per 100km, unleaded Theoretical range: 550km Colour: Metallic grey Nicked once again from The Bear’s online Road Rider Ed Page7 You and your partner are invited to help us A All of the following or B Personally select a party plan that suits you (tick the box) 1 Kaylene’s 50th birthday party 2 Kaylene and Steve’s wedding anniversary (25 years of weeded blisssss) 3 Kaylene’s retirement party 4 Kaylene and Steve’s going away party The party night is 17th January 2009 : Start time 6:00 pm Please BYO drinks. The evening will be catered food. The address is 81 Wolfe Rd, Banjup. Overnight accommodation is available as BYO tent or bedding for some floor space. No Presents. If you must; a charitable donation is preferred – to a cancer foundation or other of your choice. RSVP to 93972432 / 0419951018 – or e-Mail response before 9th Jan (for catering) Page8 NATCOM MUTTERINGS VALE IAN (HUGGIE) RAWLINGS Nominations received for positions on the Ulysses Club Inc. National Committee 2009. I regret to inform members of the passing away of a terrific man and great Ulyssian, Ian Rawlings. Elections will be held during the Annual General Meeting commencing at 1 pm on Saturday 21st March 2009 HUGGIE, as he was affectionately known, lost his long battle with cancer at 8:45 a.m. this morning in Toronto Hospital with his family at his side. Position Candidate:President: Kim Kennerson Ian was a past National Treasurer, National President and Life Member of the Ulysses Club. Secretary: Helena Gritton I personally have had the pleasure of serving under Ian's leadership on the National Committee and have since become a close personal friend. Vice President: Denis Paulin Treasurer: Victor Lesslie Committee: Jan Birch The loss for his family and many friends will be hard to come to terms with and many a tear will be shed. Peter Maguire Kim Kennerson, National President, Ulysses Club Inc. Friday 28th November 2008 Peter Williams Alan Piddington Jennifer Woods Page9 CHRISTMAS PARTY SATURDAY 13TH DECEMBER 81 WOLFE ROAD BANJUP Once again Steve and Kaylene have generously agreed yo hold the Fremantle Branch Christmas Party at their lovely property in Banjup. Start time is once the lawn is cut however that would have to be around 4 pm onwards I guess. Club will be providing meat and buns, BYO salad to be chopped up by volunteers on the day. Some old tart/fart to have a go at making some coffee for the masses later in the evening. Usual volunteers for preparation and clean up of the venue. This is Steve and Kaylene’s home so we of course as usual will leave it like we find it! Maybe even better…..! Numbers to the Prez at the next two meetings please so that catering can be set up. Christmas Hamper will be drawn on the night so plenty of goodies to the Barrel Girl at the next two meetings folks. Everyone is asked to please bring a small gift value between $2.00~$5.00 to go into Santa’s Sack for distribution on the night by Santa’s Little Helpers. See you there! Page10 'Currently it has a top speed of 25mph, but that will be increased greatly with bigger motors.'It has a range of about 2.5 hours and it is designed for the commute to work through busy towns. I believe this could be electrical alternative to the car. I'm just looking for an investor to help me get it into production.' TRICK CYCLIST A young inventor has created a motorbike with a twist - it uses two wheels but they are positioned right next to each other, giving it the illusion of being a powered unicycle. And even better, it might help save the planet. Ben Gulak has spent several years building the electric Uno that uses gyroscopic technology - like the infamous Segway commuter device - to stay upright. The bizarre looking contraption has only one switch - on or off - and is controlled entirely by body movement. The rider leans forward to accelerate to speeds of 25 mph and back to slow down. It has two wheels side-by-side and has been turning heads wherever it has been ridden. The green machine is so small and light it can be taken indoors and carried into lifts - and is recharged by being plugged into the mains. The wheels are completely independent, allowing the bike to turn on a sixpence and the technology takes the balance and guesswork out of riding a unicycle. Its 18-year-old creator is now looking for investors to get the Uno into production and onto the streets. Ben, from Ontario , Canada , said: 'I was inspired to make the bike after visiting China a few years ago and seeing all the smog. They all drive little bikes that are really polluting and I wanted to make something to combat that. 'I started with the concept because if something doesn't look cool people just won't be interested. After coming up with the concept I started to build it and now have the first prototype and the reaction has been amazing. 'It has two wheels side by side and that means it is easier to turn as they are completely independent and have their own suspension. 'The bike has a 'neutral point' and when you lean forward it accelerates to keep the neutral point in the right place. 'It has a couple of gyros and is basically self-balancing - it takes the guesswork out of riding a unicycle. 'The bike takes a bit of getting used to because you have to learn to trust it. But it doesn't take long. 'It takes any weight and weighs 120 lbs and can fit into a lift so you can take it indoors to charge it up. The Credit crunch bites in UK! Page11 Men and Mortality! Supermarket Marketing Do not go gentle into that good night, Old age should burn and rave at close of day; Rage, rage against the dying of the light. Though wise men at their end know dark is right, Because their words had forked no lightning they Do not go gentle into that good night. A new supermarket opened in Endeavour Hills. It has an automatic water mister to keep the produce fresh. Just before it goes on, you hear the sound of distant thunder and the smell of fresh rain. When you pass the milk cases, you hear cows mooing and you experience the scent of fresh mown hay. In the meat department there is the aroma of charcoal grilled Steaks with onions. When you approach the egg case, you hear hens cluck and cackle, and the air is filled with the pleasing aroma of bacon and eggs frying. Good men, the last wave by, crying how bright Their frail deeds might have danced in a green bay, Rage, rage against the dying of the light. Wild men who caught and sang the sun in flight, And learn, too late, they grieved it on its way, Do not go gentle into that good night. Grave men, near death, who see with blinding sight Blind eyes could blaze like meteors and be gay, Rage, rage against the dying of the light. The bread department features the tantalising smell of fresh baked bread & cookies. I don't buy toilet paper there any more. And you, my father, there on the sad height, Curse, bless me now with your fierce tears, I pray. Do not go gentle into that good night. Rage, rage against the dying of the light. Dylan Thomas. CHICKEN TALES A chicken farmer went to a local bar sat next to a woman and ordered a glass of champagne. The woman perks up and says "How about that? I just ordered a glass of champagne too!" "What a coincidence" the farmer says "This is a special day for me. I am celebrating." "This is a special day for me too, I am also celebrating!" says the woman. "What a coincidence!" says the farmer as they clinked glasses the man asked "What are you celebrating?" "My husband and I have been trying to have a child and today my gynaecologist told me that I am pregnant!" "What a coincidence", say the man. "I'm a chicken farmer and for years all of my hens were infertile, but today they are all laying fertilized eggs." "That's great!" says the woman, "How did your chickens become fertile?" "I used a different cock", he replied. The woman smiled and said. "What a coincidence!" Look what we have to look forward to guys! Page12