Pennsylvania has new motorcycle club

The holidays are over, and for the majority of people their thoughts are turning to spring. But for motorcycle enthusiasts, it's time to get out to the garage and get that motorcycle ready for riding. Whether it's adding all those new goodies you received for Christmas, or just tuning up the bike.

A new motorcycle club has opened in Pennsylvania. As of this date, it's the only chapter in the state, but the organization is international.

The club, called Star Touring and Riding Association, was founded in Arizona by Alan Cease in 1996. Originally, the club was strictly for Yamaha riders, but it now accepts all makes and models. Its motto is: ''Ride what you like, like what you ride.''

This is a family organization which now comprises over 6,000 members, including some from as far as Japan, Germany and the United Kingdom.

In Pennsylvania, Chapter 143 was launched in September 1999. It is sponsored by Miller's Yamaha-Ducati of Lemont Furnace, Pa.

The local chapter was launched by Miller's Yamaha and Dave Reynolds and it is always looking for new members. All bikes are welcome. The club is open to men and women, young and old.

The local chapter meets at 7 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month at the R&R Restaurant in Mt. Pleasant. The club will host a meeting at 5 p.m. March 24 at Miller's Yamaha-Ducati. Those wishing to join or meet with members are welcome to attend any of the club's meetings.

Once the weather breaks, the meetings will be held while the club is on a ride.

Once a year, Star Touring and Riding Association holds a special event called Star Days. The event, which is held in a different location each year, will be held Aug. 21-23 in Bowling Green, Ky.

Star Days attracts thousands of people. Events are planned for each day including demos, poker runs and parades. The Pennsylvania chapter is planning to leave Aug. 19.

Anyone wishing to join the club or obtain more information can call the following officers: Patrick E. Potts, president (724) 744-4897; Alan Hribal, vice president (724) 887-5547; Karl Butchko, secretary/treasurer (724) 277-8184; and Vicki Hribal, lady of the star (724) 887-5547.

Doris Potts is the wife of Patrick Potts, club president.