Article and Photos by Al Aiello

On October 23rd, several members of the Sonoma County Falcons cruised to Eureka to have some fun with members of the Lost Coast Chapter. SCFF members who attended were Nancy Cozine, Bill Johns, Claude Magill & his granddaughter (Kevy), Al Aiello, Lois Aiello, Ray Johnson, Cecilia Johnson, Rick Pack & friend (Roger), Roger Moore & friend (Cathy), and Butch Guillen.

Seven Falcons & Rancheros departed from Sonoma County early Saturday morning. The group cruised at a leisurely rate north on Highway 101. Mike and Amarlis Wilwerding from the Lost Coast Chapter met the group near Garberville.

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The Flyin' Falcon at rest along Highway 101 near Laytonville.

After a stop for lunch in Garberville, the Falcons headed up the "Avenue of the Giants". The "Avenue" is old Highway 101, and the "Giants" are the ancient and majestic redwood trees that grace the road. Mike and Amarlis arranged a surprise visit to the "Drive-Thru Tree" in Myers Flat. The "Drive-Thru Tree" is located in a grove of redwoods alongside the Eel River. The center of the tree was hollowed-out many years ago. This stop made for a golden "photo-opportunity" as each Falcon was photographed as it passed through the ancient redwood tree.

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Mike Wilwerding negotiating the "Drive-Thru Tee" in his beautiful Ranchero.

The group then continued up the road with stops at the Founder’s Grove and other interesting places along the way. It was an awesome cruise through the Giants. Butch and Bill brought communications radios that came in handy when somebody became separated from the caravan.

At about 4:00 pm, SCFF and Lost Coast members arrived in Eureka and settled in at the Quality Inn Motel. After an hour or two of rest and relaxation, it was off to the Lost Coast Brewery for dinner and refreshments. After dinner, Mike and Amarlis opened up their home to the group for more fun and conversation.

On Sunday morning, the group was off to breakfast at the Samoa Cookhouse. Those of you that have been to the Cookhouse know that you must bring a big appetite with you! It was a great way to start the day before heading to the nearby Carson Mansion for another great photo opportunity.

The final stop was Victorian Ferndale. After a walk down Main Street and visits to several interesting shops, it was time to leave the redwoods and return to points south.

Thank you Mike and Amarlis for your hospitality, and perhaps we can have a repeat performance next year!

More great photos (courtesy of Mike and Amarilis Wilwerding) are shown below--Enjoy!!!

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