So, first was Mac Tools, then GE, and finally the last celebration/team building event is GEICO Motorcycle. After the snowmobiling, and group dinner, I attended a quick meeting in the morning and caught a flight from Reno to Norfolk, Va. Lisa, otherwise known as “Momma Lisa” to the GEICO family, was there with her son Scott, to meet me. They were also both at the Las Vegas AC Delco event last year, but they had left before my accident. In fact, I believe we were actually supposed to meet them for dinner that night.

Doug, Debbie, and Gary were already at the GEICO building when I arrived. The original plan was to have the transporter open and available to the employees for a walk through, but, just as in drag racing, Mother Nature had other plans. It was raining and cold. Doug parked the transporter in the designated location, just in case the weather changed. Good thing, because it did improve the next day.

Wednesday at GEICO was a fun day, as usual. We met a few new additions to the team and did our usual walkthrough to get updates on everyone. The first thing we had noticed was how much GEICO Motorcycle had grown. Where there was space last year, there was now wall-to-wall office and cubicles. The building was designed for expansion; however, I noticed they are getting close to the ends. I think that’s a problem that many businesses would love to tackle. Lisa informed us they have plenty of room to grow on other floors.

The theme this year was Blazing New Trails, so the entire area was decorated in wilderness and campfire elements. In fact, Gary had put our Suzuki 400 Quad out on display. They had a band there made up of GEICO employees and the management team sang a song to help kick off the event. Shortly after our socializing with everyone, we began the presentation. First, they showed us some new commercials that will be hitting the airways any day (no, I‘m not in them); then they went on and discussed their growth and successes from last year. Awards for outstanding quality and various achievements were handed out. GEICO Motorcycle always includes the race teams in celebration, so, as usual, we left with jackets and GEICO gifts.

CR, also known as ‘Critter’ in the AMA Superbike venue, was there, too. He is the driver of the GEICO Motorcycle Superbike. He’s a great guy and we always have fun when he’s around. Gary doesn’t think so, but he kind of reminds me of Craig Treble. That’s him sitting on my bike.

We had a great visit with the GEICO family, and I can’t wait to return. Next stop, Rockingham, N.C.

Bye for now.