As many of you know, we (Sam & I) finally had the pleasure of meeting this great trio in person during our Labour Day Weekend to D.C. What can I possibly say about these great guys that you wouldn’t already know from their online presence?! You’d be surprised actually!!!

I must admit that after meeting Marco (Brando) and Ali (Sly) a few months ago and spending some quality time with them, our expectations were quite high. I had always thought of Rasoul as a (slightly) older brother - one that I never had. Hamid (Artaville), being the same sign as the only brother I have and my wife – Capricorn - has also had a very special place in my heart. And last, but certainly not least, Pedram… well, he is just in a category of his own.

So, with that introduction and in order of “bozorg be koocheek”, let me introduce these amazing guys to you, one by one and in a little more detail.

Who Is Motori?!

Whether you want to call him Rasoul or “the biker”, referring to his passion for riding motorcycles, he is one of the most worldly (“donya dideh”) people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. When I say “worldly” I’m not necessarily talking about travels around the world - although he’s definitely not a novice in that category - but having seen the many facets of life and the world we live in. And he loves to share these experiences with you, not to say that he has “been there, done that, and got the T-shirt”, but because he is a gracious story-teller who truly appreciates his audience and will never refuse an encore.

If I went a little too deep, it’s because in my opinion, that’s really the level you should try and connect with Mr. “A” – as we passionately referred to him by the end of the trip. But despite his incredible and intense stories, rivaling what most of us would have only seen in movies like Mission Impossible (and believe me when I say he has pulled quite a few of those), or James Bond (without the Bond women of course), Rasoul’s a very “cool”, calm and well rounded person and a great listener. He originally did his studies in the US in Aeronautics and moved back to Iran in the late 70’s to help his country. This sense of service to one’s country and a true love for one’s nation, are two characteristics that I for one, will always look up to Rasoul for – among many other things of course.

On the lighter side, he should definitely be the Tour Director at the Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum (NASM). He not only knows the name of all the planes on display there, or the names of the first pilots who flew them and on which date, but what they were also wearing that day and even the name of their aunts and uncles!!! Okay, I’m exagerating a bit, but I honestly felt that even Wiki has nothing on Mr. A, when it comes to his other big passion in life – planes and aeronatics in general. He is an avid RC (Radio Controlled) hobbyist and currently working on a rather large model of one of the planes displayed at the NASM (name?) – flying over a city near you, complete with IC decals!!! Expect no less, from a great “team leader” and mission master - although I must warn you that you’d be expected to report for duty no later that “0-800” hours every morning, regardless of how much you drink the night before. :help:

He really likes his “crab cakes”, that’s for sure. And frankly, after finally trying some in Baltomire (after we could not find a good one in Annapolis), I think he’s on to something there. Our day trip to the Thomas Jefferson memorial was also a very profond experience for me. To be there with someone who has sat with me through so many online discussions of democracy, religion and even God, at one of the pillars of democracy, and to read about God, not once but througout the exerpts of TJ’s writings that are hacked into the walls – was something that I will NEVER EVER forget. And I can only hope that it is something that our people and nation will soon realize, that God and religion are speparate issue – the former being a foundation for a free and democratic society, while the latter is a cancerous and destructive force that opppose it.

In closing, Mrs. G & I had a GREAT time with you Rasoul jaan and like to thank you for being a part of this VERY memorable trip. We are also going to pester you indefinitely :UniKia:, until the “Memoirs of Mr. A” can be found at bookstores worldwide and I mean it when I say that I'm at your service in any way that you deem appropriate for making that a reality - in exachange for a couple of autographed copies of the book of course! We’re counting the days till we see you again (with Mrs. A this time) and I believe we have some unfinished business involving one Mr. Belvedere!!! :drinking47:

Haha, thanks for writing that up Behrou. Must have been really nice to meet Rasoul and what you write of him is kinda how I imagined him. Astute, generous and passionate.

wow. keep em coming. i really wish i could have made the trip. :(

wow. keep em coming. i really wish i could have made the trip. :(

Yeah me too. :(

But as Kaz says, that's also what I had imagined about Rasoul. One day/night sitting by his side and listening to his stories would have really been a blessing.

Behrou joon, keep 'em coming. :)

I will guys, I will.

My sincere apologies to Hamid and Pedram for not having written their dedication yet. It's not that I even have to think what to write (I actually have to leave out a lot of things with all of you guys), but I just haven't been finding the time to write!!! It's really starting to annoy me, but knock on wood, work has been very busy and I've done more site visits in the past month, than I normally do in a year. I did call them both last weekend, so that they at least know we love them and I have NOT aborted mission. :)

Anyway, this weekend is our Thanksgiving (long weekend), so I can finally get some time to myslef, empty out my head and clear my consience! ;)

Behrou jan, Sharmande mikoni.
About Rasoul, I must say, I wish we had more time to enjoy the great stories he has about almost anything you can think of. And by the way, Behrou writes about everyone, it is about time someone writes about him!!
I have seen Behrou and Sammy in 3 separate trips, and I have enjoyed their company. Usually, when I go to Toronto, I know so many people that I don't get to see everyone. But I have made time to see Mr. G every time.

Truly appreciate all the kind words. I feel humbled and blessed at the same time for being among such a great people I've ever seen in my life.

Mr, G.
That Airplane is called Extra 260m which belonged to American Aerobatic pilot Patty Wagstaff which later on was donated to N.A.S.M.
The plane I'm in process of building is 27% of the full scale plane, powered by 50 cc purpose build gasoline engine and it will look exactly like this + markings of IC all over it.

http://www.chiefaircraft.com/Models/PowerAirplanes/Hangar9/Images/HAN_EXTRA_260bLg.jpg

Thank you Mr. Ped, we always enjoy having you too. And now that you've officially seen the "construction site" and made Doubie Doo's acquaintance as "Uncle Ped", you're expected even more often (don't forget Nov. 7th). ;)

I tried to remem the name of the plane Rasoul jaan and even looked it up on NASM's web site, but to no avail. I did remember it had a strange name though! So, Extra 260M (the picture didn't display for me). Are you really making a 27/100 model? I must have still been sleepy ;) that morning. that's going to be HUGE!

BTW Rasoul jaan, what did you say was the best cordless drill set? Our Ridgid battery doesn't charge anymore, after only a year. I'm trying to get it replaced under warranty, but otherwise it's $130 just for the battery!!! There's a sale on DeWalt and Hitachi 18v's right now. Was either of those the one you recommended or was it Makita? Our Milwaukee is only a screw-driver as I noticed later on and doesn't take drill bits (no chuck). If I can't get a warranty repleacement, I think I', going to have to get something else (for the same price as the battery alone, I can get the whole set incl. 2 batteries!!!).

I knew that I'll regret my inability to make it to this union, and I'm proven right .

Unfortunately ,I missed the chance of meeting Pedram and behrou.

I have had pleasure of meeting hamid before.And I have I had honor of corrosponding with Rasoul in the past. I still hope that some day I can put the face and legend together.

back in ISP days, I often thaught what a hangover I would have the day after meeting rasoul,mashdi and referee ( it goes back to moshaereh thread) :).

Can't wait to hear about hamid and pedram from Behrou's eyes.


Is there another DC reunion in plans??? There may be a possibility of DC trip for me during kid's easter break.

Aram jan, what was your name in ISP?

Aram jan, what was your name in ISP?

Begam?? Begam?? MigamA??:D

I knew that I'll regret my inability to make it to this union, and I'm proven right .

Unfortunately ,I missed the chance of meeting Pedram and behrou.

I have had pleasure of meeting hamid before.And I have I had honor of corrosponding with Rasoul in the past. I still hope that some day I can put the face and legend together.

back in ISP days, I often thaught what a hangover I would have the day after meeting rasoul,mashdi and referee ( it goes back to moshaereh thread) :).

Can't wait to hear about hamid and pedram from Behrou's eyes.


Is there another DC reunion in plans??? There may be a possibility of DC trip for me during kid's easter break.
ArAm jAn,
I was born ready. You set the time and the place, I'll be there!
This past DC trip you were truly missed. You should've seen R.T's Bar, it could bring Rezazadeh on his knees.

Begam?? Begam?? MigamA??:D

LOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOL :D ;)

Aram jan, what was your name in ISP?

Sly jon
esme o rasm nadashtim.
I was a HARMLESS person, sitting in a corner , noon o mast mikhordim.

Aram jan I am always game for another get together specially in Washington DC area. :Notooth2: I wish rest of you guys could have also joined us for our first IC get together. It really was a pleasure and a treat to meet these guys in person, jatoon khaly bod. :)


LOL @
Begam?? Begam?? MigamA??:D

Aram jan I am always game for another get together specially in Washington DC area. :Notooth2: I wish rest of you guys could have also joined us for our first IC get together. It really was a pleasure and a treat to meet these guys in person, jatoon khaly bod. :)


LOL @
R.T jAn,
You and Mr, Ped. have already exhausted your rations. This time you both are packing and meeting us some where half way.:D:D

I suggest some where close to Smokey Mountain National Park area, Ashville, Gatlingburg or Pigeon Forge, are all beautiful and relaxing area, where we can spread a "Zeeloo", take out the bowl of maast o kheyaar and allow me to pay my dues to Behrou about that bottle of Belvedere.

Sly jon
esme o rasm nadashtim.
I was a HARMLESS person, sitting in a corner , noon o mast mikhordim.

Rasputin doesn't think that way. He think you caused him plenty of AzAr and sleepless nights.;)

Rasputin doesn't think that way. He think you caused him plenty of AzAr and sleepless nights.;)

speaking of rasputin,
Shenoftam ghogha kardeh. 7-8 ta dige zaeedeh va chap o rast be ham bah bah migan.

Alright guys, I finally managed to get some alone time to write the next piece after the Turkey! Our long weekend is not technically finished yet, otherwise I wouldn't have dared to show my face around here, till I was done with both! Mr. Ped is going to have to forgive me and wait a little bit longer, but being the patient guy that he is, I hope I won't go in his bad book - which I don't even think he has! ;)

Sammy was not at all impressed with the piece I wrote for Mr. A and didn't think I did Rasoul justice. Of course, I agreed with that and I don't think I've done any of you guys justice with these pieces. But in my defence, these are called "introductions", they're written for a general audience and I'm limiting myself to public domain information - it's hard you know to try and capture the essence of someone in a few paragraphs! Plus, you gotta leave a lot of the good stuff to be figured out when everybody finally meets - so, that's the format of my story and I'm sticking with it!

Who is Artaville?

Whether you want to call him Hamid or refer to him by his beautiful user-name Artvaille (the anicient name of Ardebil meaning “holy place” and his birthplace), he is as “Persian” as Zartosht himself – also born nearby by the river Aras. Perhaps my use of the word “Persian” is a little subjective here, but there’s a certain warmth (“khoon-garmi”) and hospitality which I think separates Iranians from many other people in the world, and in my humble opinion Hamid personifies these traits to the fullest. It really didn’t take him long to make us feel a part of the family as we enjoyed a great feast at his home with the rest of the family and some other great friends.

But even before then, Sammy and I noticed the importance this great husband and wife team places on family in general and more specifically on their two daughters, one cuter than the other, and both with beautiful and well thought out Persian names. Sitting on a cool patio in Georgetown, sipping on drinks and exchanging some fun forum gossip with the guys ;), I was pretty oblivious to the fact that Sammy had already met the girls – albeit through pictures – and she not only remebered their names when we got back to hotel, but couldn’t stop talking about how impressed she was with how “Mrs. H” had made that introduction, as well as her sincere and direct style – something that I had also noticed about Hamid over the years. Needless to say, they do make both a great couple and a great team, especially when it comes to the grill and feeding you – yum yum. :)

Hamid has spent a significant part of his life (if not the majority) outside Iran and you don’t have to work with him to know he’s a serious and hard-working person - a testament to his sign (Capricorn). But socially, he’s a very “chill” and down-to-earth guy, easy going and a great listener – make sure he’s got a cigar and you can talk to him about anything and for as long as you want! As you know, he’s in tele-communications and a self-built guy who put himself through college working many different jobs, including being a bartender. This is why I had to dig deep in my bag of tricks to introduce him to a drink I knew he had not heard of – the Russian Roulette. Just don’t forget to have the fire extinguisher around, that’s not a bad joke, but from personal epxerience! ;)

Thank you for taking the time to drive us to Annapolis and Baltimore and being the youngest ones in the car (for once ;)), Sam & I don’t feel at all bad about being a couple of spoiled kids asking are we there yet, can we smoke in here and where can we get a beer? LOL. Of course, my highlight of the trip was seeing those smiley stickers on the window of the car and you “caliming” that the kids had done it! I don’t know, but if that’s true, we seem to have a couple of more Smiley Masters in the making! :wavetowel2:

We truly enjoyed meeting you and hanging out with the whole family - BTW, Mrs. H’s mom and brother were just as “dear” (borrowing a great word from Sammy) as the two of you – and counting the days till we get together again, smoke some Djarums and watch you mastery with the grill although this time with you as a special guest. :drinking47:

Behrou jAn,

Happy belated Thanks Giving, Daadaash. Hope you both and the family had a great time and enjoyed that Turkey.
Cold cut Turkey sandwiches will continue for a week I guess.;)

Is that ever lasting backyard deck project finished yet? :D

speaking of rasputin,
Shenoftam ghogha kardeh. 7-8 ta dige zaeedeh va chap o rast be ham bah bah migan.

They remind me of Piglet and the pack of warthogs.

LOL @ Djarum,

Long after the trip I stopped by my dry cleaner to pick up my clothing and the Lady behind the counter handed me a DJarum and said they found it in my shirt pocket. I still have it.:D

speaking of rasputin,
Shenoftam ghogha kardeh. 7-8 ta dige zaeedeh va chap o rast be ham bah bah migan.

They remind me of Piglet and her pack of Warthogs. :chekerim:

Thanks Behrou jan for the kind words. I too really enjoyed meeting you guys and do look forward for our future gathering, this time some where closer to the lone star perhaps. ;) :chekerim:

By the way, the cigarette that Behrou shared with us was some thing else. :)

p.s., too bad we never got a chance to try that russian roulett thingy.....I will bring it out next time when we have some serious drinkers over. But I still need to get your recipe before mixing that concoucsion to aviod major fire in the neighborhood. :UniKia:

Behrou jAn,

Happy belated Thanks Giving, Daadaash. Hope you both and the family had a great time and enjoyed that Turkey.
Cold cut Turkey sandwiches will continue for a week I guess.;)

Is that ever lasting backyard deck project finished yet? :D

LMAO @ turkey sandwiches for a week. I've learnt my lesson Rasoul jaan and avoid that doggy back from Sam's mom at all costs - even if I have to pretend I got food poisoning! ;)

Yeah, the backyard is pretty much finished. I just have to finish a few more steps on the deck and we're good to go. It's getting really cold up here to work outside though. We do have a lot of planting (which is the fun stuff), but that's for next spring.

Did you see my question about the cordless screw-driver btw? Your expertise would be greatly appreciated on that. :help:


Thanks Behrou jan for the kind words. I too really enjoyed meeting you guys and do look forward for our future gathering, this time some where closer to the lone star perhaps. ;) :chekerim:

By the way, the cigarette that Behrou shared with us was some thing else. :)

p.s., too bad we never got a chance to try that russian roulett thingy.....I will bring it out next time when we have some serious drinkers over. But I still need to get your recipe before mixing that concoucsion to aviod major fire in the neighborhood. :UniKia:

LOL. I think we'll be good to go as hosts for next Labour day. I don't care what it takes, but we'll get this baby wrapped up by then, so schedule it in boys.

Yeah, I think I have to make a little trip to our local cigar store and grab a pack of those DJ's. I can't believe you didn't smoke yours Mr. A. and took it all the way back with you. I don't guarantee that stuff is legal in all states!!! :whistle:

Mr. Smiley Master, you better have the ingredients for that RR finished soon. That Galliano stuff goes a little weird after a while. Here's the detailed receipe again:

1 - Fill the shot glass about 1/2 way with the Vodka. Add 1/3 Gallliano. That gives you just a little more room in the glass. Fill up the rest with the Sambuca (it's okay if it overflows - it's actually supposed to - just make sure you do this in a fire proof tray!).

2 - Slice up a lemon and put one on top of each shot glass. Poor a little (dash of) sugar on top of each slice.

3 - For every shot glass that you have, pour another 1/3 of a shot glass of Sambuca in a wine glass (only one glass for all of them and again, make sure it's at the very least dishwasher safe, cause it will be on fire!). Tilt the wine galss and with a lighter, set the Sambuca on fire. Slowly rotate the glass around, so it heats up evenly.

4 - Slowly, pour the flaming Sambuca (in the wine glass) over the other shot glasses, until they're all in flames, as is the tray. Let the lemon simmer in the flame for about 15-30 seconds.

5 - Ask each person to reach in and grabe their galss. Make sure you tell them not to panic and drop the glass. The flame looks really hot, but it's harmless unless you drop the liquid on yourself in large quantities. If it spills anywhere (including hands), you can just blow it out very easily.

6 - Ask each person to pick up the lemon, blow out the flame and rub the slice around the rim of the glass a few times. This will insure that no one will burn their lips.

7 - Down the shot glass and eat the lemon (without the skin of course)!

You will get a nice warm fuzzy feeling all over as it goes down. Two of those per person and the party's good to go. I would not recommend more than one for non-drinkers and more than 2 for women! There's a reason they call it Russian Roulette - you never know which one's going to hit you hard! I have never had more than 3 of those in a 24 hours period, let's just put it that way! :dunno:

I guess we learn a new thing every day!! I didn't know Toronto is close to Smokey Mountain National Park!!
I think I am going to have a longer drive than expected if I get my tickets to buffalo airport and want to drive to SMNP.
:NoTooth:

LMAO. Geography was never one of my strong suits Mr. Ped. ;) Having said that, I thought by the "lone star" reference, Hamid meant "north star". I feel like Data in Star Trek asking this question, but was that a reference to SMNP?

Thanks for the recipe Behrou jan.

p.s., drinking RR sounds like a health hazard, I have to make sure I get my guests sign a disclaimer before drinking that stuff or else I’ll be charged with arson and will be paying emergency room bills for years to come.

By the way, Lone Star is a reference to Rasoul's home state of Texas.

LOL just talking about this alcoholic RR is making you guys drunk already, first Rasoul double posts and now Arta, that must be some drink :D

LOL just talking about this alcoholic RR is making you guys drunk already, first Rasoul double posts and now Arta, that must be some drink :D

I agree CD jan. I am glad you brought up Rasoul's double post, if I had done it he would be on my case until next year. :NoTooth:
I think Behrou has exhausted his ration of RR for today.

LMAO. Geography was never one of my strong suits Mr. Ped. ;) Having said that, I thought by the "lone star" reference, Hamid meant "north star". I feel like Data in Star Trek asking this question, but was that a reference to SMNP?


If you read Rasoul reply about the next meeting, he says Hamid and I have exhausted our ration for meetings in DC and the next one should be halfway between here and Texas -- somewhere close to SMNP.
By the way, nice try to mastmali lone star with north star. :chekerim:

LMAO @ turkey sandwiches for a week. I've learnt my lesson Rasoul jaan and avoid that doggy back from Sam's mom at all costs - even if I have to pretend I got food poisoning! ;)



Did you see my question about the cordless screw-driver btw? Your expertise would be greatly appreciated on that. :help:

You get doggy back from your mother in law?? You musta been the luckist sun of gun I've ever known in my entire life.:D:D:D

LOL just talking about this alcoholic RR is making you guys drunk already, first Rasoul double posts and now Arta, that must be some drink :D

Commander???
Stop threading on me!! What 2ble post??

They remind me of Piglet and the pack of warthogs.

They remind me of Piglet and her pack of Warthogs. :chekerim:

Commander???
Stop threading on me!! What 2ble post??

LOL :mf_seehearspeak:

Atleast you had some serious skill involved with it bc you first had your first post, then came another different post and then half hour later came the double post. Wasnt gonna mention it untill Arta did it too and I saw a connection between the alcohol and the doubling posting, I blame my nickname Cmd Data :D

I agree CD jan. I am glad you brought up Rasoul's double post, if I had done it he would be on my case until next year. :NoTooth:
LOL yeah thanks for that :crutch:

I think Behrou has exhausted his ration of RR for today.I think he uses the option to bank his rations, for later occasions :drinking47:

Mr, G.

I havn't seen your thread about cordless screw driver so I'll pitch in my $0.02 racheer.

If you can spare some extra dough (which I believe it well worth the investment) I would get Dewalt "36 Volt" cordless anything.
They have a kit composed of 4(?) different tools in it for around 300 USD. They will last life time. The battery packages are made of 21th century technology A123 Lithium Ion cells and one fast charge will last all day with incredible power and versatility.
They also have 28 and 18 volt system but 36 volts cordless tools are the king of the industry.

If you decide not to go that route I would suggest looking for 24 Volt Hitachi cordless tools, they have quality, power and longevity of Makita for Black & Decker price.

We use Dewalt in the work shop and I use all Hitachi at home.
Best of luck to you.

BTW: I would stay away from those tools made exclusively as cordless screwdriver, look for cordless drill with "adjustable, reversible torque and RPM" which can be used as drill and screwdriver.

BTW Rasoul jaan, what did you say was the best cordless drill set? Our Ridgid battery doesn't charge anymore, after only a year. I'm trying to get it replaced under warranty, but otherwise it's $130 just for the battery!!! There's a sale on DeWalt and Hitachi 18v's right now. Was either of those the one you recommended or was it Makita? Our Milwaukee is only a screw-driver as I noticed later on and doesn't take drill bits (no chuck). If I can't get a warranty repleacement, I think I', going to have to get something else (for the same price as the battery alone, I can get the whole set incl. 2 batteries!!!).

Rasoul jan, it is right here in this thread. I guess he has lucked out. Both dewalt and hitachi are on sale!!

By the way, nice try to mastmali lone star with north star. :chekerim:

LOL. It was worth a try! :imstupid:

You get doggy back from your mother in law?? You musta been the luckist sun of gun I've ever known in my entire life.:D:D:D

Not luck Mr. A. I had a very stringent application process which involved quite a few questions about the mother-in-law to be! :UniKia:

Mr, G.
I havn't seen your thread about cordless screw driver so I'll pitch in my $0.02 racheer.

If you can spare some extra dough (which I believe it well worth the investment) I would get Dewalt "36 Volt" cordless anything.
They have a kit composed of 4(?) different tools in it for around 300 USD. They will last life time. The battery packages are made of 21th century technology A123 Lithium Ion cells and one fast charge will last all day with incredible power and versatility.
They also have 28 and 18 volt system but 36 volts cordless tools are the king of the industry.

If you decide not to go that route I would suggest looking for 24 Volt Hitachi cordless tools, they have quality, power and longevity of Makita for Black & Decker price.

We use Dewalt in the work shop and I use all Hitachi at home.
Best of luck to you.

BTW: I would stay away from those tools made exclusively as cordless screwdriver, look for cordless drill with "adjustable, reversible torque and RPM" which can be used as drill and screwdriver.

Thank you sir, that's exactly what I was looking for. I think I'm going to go with the Hitachi. The battery for the Ridgid should come in soon anyway, so between the 2 of them, I think we'll have enough functional drill sets to carry on. I totally agree with you that the exclusively screwdriver sets are not strong. Learnt that from the Milwaukee set, but in all fairness, it's a really compact and light unit and there's absolutely no way I could have done the concealed screws on the deck (screwed from the bottom and the deck is only 24" off the ground) with one of these bigger and heavier units.

Many thanks again for taking the time to share your expertise. Off to Canadiant Tire to get the Hitachi. :)

LOL just talking about this alcoholic RR is making you guys drunk already, first Rasoul double posts and now Arta, that must be some drink :D

LOL. Let's just say Commander that this drink is said to separate the boys from the men! So, you better be ready to down a few by the time I see you :)

Thanks for the recipe Behrou jan.
p.s., drinking RR sounds like a health hazard, I have to make sure I get my guests sign a disclaimer before drinking that stuff or else I’ll be charged with arson and will be paying emergency room bills for years to come.


Always a good idea Hamid joon, especially down there where all the lawyers work on contingency! ;)

BTW, we're totally up for the Lone Start thing, although based on what Mr. A was saying, it's going to be one of those trips you need to diet for a month after! Anywhere on the West Coast, Vegas, Arizona, etc. is cool too. We haven't been to any of those places.

Another well written text by Behrou!

I never thought Artaville had 2 daughters. So you're a family man Artaville jan! :)

Nice stroy anyways! Damn, I wished I could have made that trip!

BTW, we're totally up for the Lone Start thing, although based on what Mr. A was saying, it's going to be one of those trips you need to diet for a month after! Anywhere on the West Coast, Vegas, Arizona, etc. is cool too. We haven't been to any of those places.
Mr, G.
Vegas is a great town, 24/7 non-stop fun starts as soon as you land or arrive there are multiple categories of fun for every one with specific taste and preferences, but I disagree with Vegas to be a gathering spot, b/c there are so much thing to do or see which might take a bite out of our limited time that we like to spend together. For example R.T &or Mr, Ped. sitting on a game table might not want to see me around b/c they definitely will blame their loss on me and think I'm bad luck.:D
That was the reason I suggested Smokey Mountain National Park area. While soaking the breath taking scenery and local delicacies (Mountain Oyster 4 example;) ) every body can stick around most of the day. In that case I might even trailer the Zuke and show you guys the way, specially going through the Dragon (318 turns, switchbacks, curves in 11 miles) and Cherohala Skyway, the motorcycle Mecca of the world.

Lets take a ride through the Tail of the dragon:

YouTube - Bikes on the Dragon



Lone Star State is also a fine alternative IMO. I can rent a big seaside house for the stretched weekend (among the ones which are not wiped out by Ike) may be rent a boat as well. Also it can be good opportunity for me to put my Wave Runner back together so grown up teenagers :Notooth2: can have a toy to play all day long.

So, lets get on it while the Iron is hot.

Rasoul jan, Sebghat az rooye khatte momtadde double? Tsk Tsk ....

Another well written text by Behrou!
I never thought Artaville had 2 daughters. So you're a family man Artaville jan! :)


:chekerim: He's not just a family man, but a great one at that. In fact, I think he should take the lead in talking you out of your wild single life and into something more meaningful with a Mrs. Sly. Maa keh zaboonemoon moo dar ovard! :Oldguy:

Mr, G.
For example R.T &or Mr, Ped. sitting on a game table might not want to see me around b/c they definitely will blame their loss on me and think I'm bad luck.:D


LMAO. Come on Mr. A, if anything you're going to be a good luck charm. I know Ped is definitely a husstler ;) and doesn't need luck, but I could definitely use some of that at the tables! :mf_sleep:

You know me, I'm good to go. You guys pick the place and I'll find the hotel deal! Wave-runner and a boat sound absolutely amazing. I definitely second that motion - you already had me at filet mignon the last time! :Weigh:

I think we shoud reach a consensus on a time when most people can make it. We're definitely out untill after the Christmas break, so Aram's Easter idea sounds pretty good to me.

:chekerim: He's not just a family man, but a great one at that. In fact, I think he should take the lead in talking you out of your wild single life and into something more meaningful with a Mrs. Sly. Maa keh zaboonemoon moo dar ovard! :Oldguy:


LOL :looti:

Make it Yosimite National park and i'll be there!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Rasoul jan, Sebghat az rooye khatte momtadde double? Tsk Tsk ....
Mr, Ped.

Entire 11 miles of Dragon Tail (U.S HWY 129) is "khatte momtadde", so rider should use his/her judgment and safely make a pass, or apex the turn by riding through the opposite lane meaning you divide a 90 deg. turn into two 135 degs. which will be lot shallower.

http://t3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:iAtLxqzlecUX7M:http://home.pon.net/hunnicutt/images/Turn.jpg

LMAO. Come on Mr. A, if anything you're going to be a good luck charm. I know Ped is definitely a husstler ;) and doesn't need luck, but I could definitely use some of that at the tables! :mf_sleep:

You know me, I'm good to go. You guys pick the place and I'll find the hotel deal! Wave-runner and a boat sound absolutely amazing. I definitely second that motion - you already had me at filet mignon the last time! :Weigh:

I think we shoud reach a consensus on a time when most people can make it. We're definitely out untill after the Christmas break, so Aram's Easter idea sounds pretty good to me.

I don't know about Mr, Ped. being a hustler, that stewardess (Rebbecca??) certainly doesn't think so.:D:D:D
If she would give me a green light like that I would be playing 'Paasoor" with her all night long.

I think it is better to ask ArAm to take charge of organizing the next trip, that way he won't have any excuses and will make sure trip happens as planned. ;)

Make it Yosimite National park and i'll be there!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Ramin jAn,
What about southwestern Colorado?? I mean Cortez and Durango area, if you plan in advance you can even drive there if you want to.
This picture was taken in middle of the summer in outskirts of Durango. Snow in July anyone??

Mr, G.
Vegas is a great town, 24/7 non-stop fun starts as soon as you land or arrive there are multiple categories of fun for every one with specific taste and preferences, but I disagree with Vegas to be a gathering spot, b/c there are so much thing to do or see which might take a bite out of our limited time that we like to spend together. For example R.T &or Mr, Ped. sitting on a game table might not want to see me around b/c they definitely will blame their loss on me and think I'm bad luck.:D

Lone Star State is also a fine alternative IMO. I can rent a big seaside house for the stretched weekend (among the ones which are not wiped out by Ike) may be rent a boat as well. Also it can be good opportunity for me to put my Wave Runner back together so grown up teenagers :Notooth2: can have a toy to play all day long.

So, lets get on it while the Iron is hot.

I agree Rasoul jan, there are too many distractions in Vegas ;) not to mention its not a kid friendly town.

But I am all for Lone Star gathering, although for me and Mrs. it's gonna have to be when kids are on school break or something.

Rasoul jan, what's up with that green manly looking cup holder? :Notooth2:

Rasoul jan it seems there is going to be too much distractions in Vegas. If you were distracted by that Stewardess, I am sure there is going to be tons of better distractions in Vegas, and you will end up playing passoor the entire trip. :UniKia:

Rasoul jan it seems there is going to be too much distractions in Vegas. If you were distracted by that Stewardess, I am sure there is going to be tons of better distractions in Vegas, and you will end up playing passoor the entire trip. :UniKia:

LOL, or he may be playing "Texas hold-em" the entire trip. :mf_seehearspeak:

Behrou jan, what happend to PJ's report? We're all anxious to find out what kind of a guy PJ is. :Notooth2:

Ramin jAn,
What about southwestern Colorado?? I mean Cortez and Durango area, if you plan in advance you can even drive there if you want to.
This picture was taken in middle of the summer in outskirts of Durango. Snow in July anyone??

Is that you in that picture. It reminds me of Iran specially the mountains.
Have a good time where ever you are.

Rasoul jan, what's up with that green manly looking cup holder? :Notooth2:
R.T jAn,
Pardon my slowness, I don't get it!!

Rasoul jan it seems there is going to be too much distractions in Vegas. If you were distracted by that Stewardess, I am sure there is going to be tons of better distractions in Vegas, and you will end up playing passoor the entire trip. :UniKia:
Az man keh khoshesh nayoomadeh bood!!:console:

Is that you in that picture. It reminds me of Iran specially the mountains.
Have a good time where ever you are.
D.S jAn,
Sure we will but never without you aziz.
You, Behrouz, Sly, Shahin and Kasera will always be missed. You guys are on the other side of the pound!!! :D:D

I don't know about Mr, Ped. being a hustler, that stewardess (Rebbecca??) certainly doesn't think so.:D:D:D
If she would give me a green light like that I would be playing 'Paasoor" with her all night long.


LMAO. I wouldn't be surprised if Mr. Ped's already racking up those British Airways frequent flyer miles! ;)

Rasoul jan, what's up with that green manly looking cup holder? :Notooth2:

LOL. I noticed that too, but didn't wanna say anything. But since you brought it up. Really Mr. A, what's up with that?! :whistle:

LOL, or he may be playing "Texas hold-em" the entire trip. :mf_seehearspeak:

Behrou jan, what happend to PJ's report? We're all anxious to find out what kind of a guy PJ is. :Notooth2:

LOL @ "Texas Hold-em". Someone's on a roll again... :Notooth2:

Mr. Ped's piece is in the works and will be up before the end of the weekend, even if I have to take a few energy pills to get it done! ;)

-------------------------------------

Rasoul jaan, Southern Colorado sounds great. Yosemite is also a great place I've always wanted to visist. I still like the wave-runner and boat idea the most though. It's amazing jet skiing in open waters and I think the kids (including Sam & I ;))will enjoy those types of activities immensely. I also haven't gone camping for a long time, but you know with my long showers :UniKia: and Sam's strict requirements for a flat-iron and blow -dryer :whistle: I don't know how that's going to pan out - LOL.

Having said that I think Hamid, Aram and Mr. Ped should defintely take charge of putting this event together because of the necessary co-ordination with the kids school schedule and picking a kid-friendly location. I was actually asking Sam how she feels about Disney World the other day, but she insisted that it would be weird to go there without kids! :dunno: So, if tsomeone's going to bring the kids, we're good to go EVEN for Disney World - I've always wanted to wear one of those Mickey caps with the ears! :Ban-Cha:

BTW Rasoul jaan, bandanas and bikes really suit you. You look AMAZING in every picture I've seen of you with a B&B (bike and bandana). I think I'm going to start wearing those too again.

P.S. I definitely think we should get more and more great people involved in these get togethers. I'd love to meet agha doktor (Ramin), as well as Mashdy and Referee (who're not on this site). Hopefully Aram jaan can fill them in, when we tie down the date and location. And of course, the Euro possi at some earlier, rather than a later date!

While I'm writing the next piece and having read over the other ones again, I want to emphasize that I really am leaving a lot of the great characteristics and personality traits of everyone out - not intentionally, but because of limitations in trying to keep the format and size of these pieces consistant. For example, as Kaz so beautifully and delicately put, Mr. A is indeed very "acute, generous and passionate", not to mention fun, friendly, warm and hospitable (I have definitely left the most things out in Rasoul's piece, including the fact that he was the driving force behind the DC get-together). The same goes for Hamid whose great sense of humour, cool and forgiving attitude, generosisty, and many other great traits that I unintentionally left out as I did with Ali and Marco's pieces.

To make the long story short and stop babbling ;) I've tried to focus more on those traits that make each of these guys very SPECIAL in my/our eyes - specific things that make them really stand out and areas they truly excel in beyond the rest of us. Hopefully that makes sense, because the more I write, the more I realize how little I have written! :chair:

Who is PJ?

Whether you want to call him Pedram or refer to him by his initials (PJ), or more affectianately as Mr. Ped (credit: Mr. A), he is one of the most easy-going and pleasant people you will ever meet in your life. At first glance, Pedram is a really “mellow” guy, but as you get to know him better, you will notice a wild streak beginning to peak out! ;)

Although he is too humble to ever mention this, he is not only the one who started the now infamous, IC Get-Togethers, he is also the one - along with Nader (PayandehIran) – who encouraged me to “write”. In a way, he has been the “quiet” inspiration behind all these great meetings as well as my “introductory” writings. He does actually seem more “quiet” and below-the-radar than most of the gang, but that’s because he’s an avid observer and a great listener who doesn’t mind taking the back-seat if it makes his companions feel special. I couldn’t help but notice that he even took the back-seat – litarally - on our drive to Annapolis! And yet again, he has been absolutely gracious in what may seem like taking a back-seat on this tri-decication.

This great quality of Pedram and one that will heopfully rub off on me, is the sole reason it will take you a bit longer to get to know him than the rest of the guys IMHO. Don’t get me wrong, he is as open as they come and Sam & I both noticed that the very first time we met him. But it wasn’t until the 3rd time and his recent trip to Toronto (after DC), when we learnt for example, that he is quite a dance enthusist and “apparently” very skillful in Salsa, Merengue, Tango, and a variety of other ballroom dances. We are yet to see his mastery in this area and can’t wait to see him bust a move to House music - sooner rather than later! ;)

As you may or may not know, he is a Sharif guy – not just in character – but of the university! An Electronics/Software Engineer, he is definitely the most recent and a welcome addition to the diaspora gang! He does often claim to play the role of “devil’s advocate” on the forum(s), but frankly, I have not seen anything from him that remotely resembles advocation of the “devil”! If anything, I think “angels’ advocate” would be a more appropriate phrase for Pedram. Always smiling, his GREAT attitude in dealing with issues, particularly in the face of adversity, is something that I truly admire about him and another trait that will hopefully rub off on me, the more I see him. Of course, no dedication to Pedram will be complete without mentioning that he is also a great dad – with two adorable kids, a daughter and a son (whose picture is in his avatar).

In closing Mr. Ped, we have thoroughly enjoyed hanging out with you every single time and really hope to have you around on November 7th. If you noticed, I qualified your dancing skills with the word “apparantely”, until we see you rip the dance-floor with our own eyes! Coincidentally, Sasha is one of very few DJ’s who can even keep me on the dance-floor all night long, so I really hope we can bust a move together that night! And I’m sure Dobie could use another cuddling session with Uncle Ped.

LOL. I noticed that too, but didn't wanna say anything. But since you brought it up. Really Mr. A, what's up with that?!

I still don't know what you both are talking about but I could safely guess your "Manzoor is Kaseef".:chair:

I still don't know what you both are talking about but I could safely guess your "Manzoor is Kaseef".:chair:

LOOL, Rasoul jan I don't know about Behrou but my Manzoor is not Kaseef, at least not too kaseef.:Notooth2:

That was just my sick sense of humor .......I just could not help but notice that green cup holder (or something) on the bike that is filming the ride and thought its a little odd for a manly biker. :UniKia:

One more thing about Pedram: He is an accomplished solo classical music pianist. I understand a production company out of NY are trying very hard to get him tour western Europe next summer.

Behrou jan, I like the idea about going to Disney…as it’s not for kids anymore, tell Sammy, she can adopt our kids while we are down there.

I still don't know what you both are talking about but I could safely guess your "Manzoor is Kaseef".:chair:

LOL. Nothing "kaseef" Rasoul jaan, Khabees maybe, but not Kaseef! :help:

I was just teasing, otherwise I know (and I'm pretty sure Hamid knows) that clip you posted with the winding road is not filmed from your bike. You're a Cruiser guy and if I recall correctly not a big fan of those fast little toys - right?

One more thing about Pedram: He is an accomplished solo classical music pianist. I understand a production company out of NY are trying very hard to get him tour western Europe next summer.

Behrou jan, I like the idea about going to Disney…as it’s not for kids anymore, tell Sammy, she can adopt our kids while we are down there.

Are you serious? I guess he keeps one major surprise for each meeting. One more reason for me to set-up the Korg i1 before he's here next. I definitely need to do a trance/progressive remix of that Anoush song (Maybe I, Maybe You). Who better to do the keyboard track(s) than Mr. Ped?

I'm definitely for Disney Hamid jaan and we'll be happy to share the babysitting duties for ALL the kids! We always have a good time with little ones :)

Ramin jAn,
What about southwestern Colorado?? I mean Cortez and Durango area, if you plan in advance you can even drive there if you want to.
This picture was taken in middle of the summer in outskirts of Durango. Snow in July anyone??
I was planning a road trip of either the west coast or Utah + Colorado this summer but it never worked out, so Colorado would be great.

Nice pic btw.

P.S. I definitely think we should get more and more great people involved in these get togethers. I'd love to meet agha doktor (Ramin), as well as Mashdy and Referee (who're not on this site). Hopefully Aram jaan can fill them in, when we tie down the date and location. And of course, the Euro possi at some earlier, rather than a later date!


Behrou jaan,

I also would like to meet all of you gentlemen in person. Hopefully wherever this next meeting is, I will be able to attend.

I agree with you that Pedram and Hamid should try and organize this next one.

LOL. Nothing "kaseef" Rasoul jaan, Khabees maybe, but not Kaseef! :help:

I was just teasing, otherwise I know (and I'm pretty sure Hamid knows) that clip you posted with the winding road is not filmed from your bike. You're a Cruiser guy and if I recall correctly not a big fan of those fast little toys - right

LOOOOL Mr, G.

You guys put me "Sar e kaar" for a long time:help:. I had this 10X magnifying glass looking all over my own picture to see a green manly cup holder.:chair:

You are correct, I got that clip from Dragon Tail website, I don't even know who those 2 riders are.

BTW: I've nothing against sports bikes, they are awesome machine to toss around at speed. I just disagree with some of the riders and the way they treat those bikes. For a 0 down payment they get a bike capable of doing over 180 mph right of the showroom and they treat them like toys, most of the time with horrifying consequences.

Behrou jan, thanks for all the kind words. You and Sammy out of your kind hearts have such an eye for positives that you found so many positives in me.

LOOOL at hamid about the piano thing. For the last 6 months or so, I have been taking my daughter to Piano lessons and I have to sit in the class and have learned a tune or two. I am definitely thinking about a tour of Western Europe to show everyone how I can play "Little Gray Pony" and "Sugar Cookies". :NoTooth:

Rasoul jan, I was also sare kar for a while, looking for that cup holder in your picture.

P.S. I definitely think we should get more and more great people involved in these get togethers. I'd love to meet agha doktor (Ramin), as well as Mashdy and Referee (who're not on this site). Hopefully Aram jaan can fill them in, when we tie down the date and location. And of course, the Euro possi at some earlier, rather than a later date!


I've heard lot of good thing about that Euro stuff. We all need to have some of that.:D:D:D

P.S I would like to add Amir (Eshghi) to ArAm's list.

Behrou jan, thanks for all the kind words. You and Sammy out of your kind hearts have such an eye for positives that you found so many positives in me.

LOOOL at hamid about the piano thing. For the last 6 months or so, I have been taking my daughter to Piano lessons and I have to sit in the class and have learned a tune or two. I am definitely thinking about a tour of Western Europe to show everyone how I can play "Little Gray Pony" and "Sugar Cookies". :NoTooth:

Rasoul jan, I was also sare kar for a while, looking for that cup holder in your picture.

Mr, Ped.
It was a pure pleasure meeting and greeting with you in person, looking fwd to see the fine encounter happen again and again.

BTW: I think there was a Piano in the Hotel lounge, sitting there Idle, I guess we all missed a performance or 2 by the Maestro himself.
May be next time.

I've heard lot of good thing about that Euro stuff. We all need to have some of that.:D:D:D

P.S I would like to add Amir (Eshghi) to ArAm's list.


LOOL, Rasoul jan, as one of my friends used to say, all stuff is good regrdless of its origin.

I totally agree with Eshghi, he is one of the most respected guys at ISP.

Mr, G.

Here are couple of pix with bandanna.

Yeah, it would definitely have been nice to see Maestro play at the hotel. Where did you guys see the piano though? I would have given it a go myself! ;)

Pedram jaan, it's not hard to see the positives when there are so many. Honestly, you are the ONLY person that Dobie has ever cuddled with on a first meeting and if a 4 year old dog can notice that, surely Sam & I would be pretty dumb not too! ;)

I'd love to meet Amir as well. Hopefully Rasoul jaan, you can convince him to join us. First order of business I guess is for the family guys to come up with the time in co-ordination with school schedules (with Ramin). I think, once we have the time, the place becomes a little bit easier to pick. For example, camping is a great idea, but not for the winter and Houston is great outside hurrican season! ;)

BTW Rasoul jaan, do you still have the same bike? I love the colors. It's that classic light yellow which hasn't really been around for decades (since the early 70's if I'm not mistaked) and always refreshing to see on any new car or bike.

I have seen pics of Rasoul before, but damn you are bad-ass, in a good way :mf_hide: :Usmotor:

And then these guys have the nerve to make fun of a green cup-holder, wich I didnt even see, :headshake: :D

Yeah, it would definitely have been nice to see Maestro play at the hotel. Where did you guys see the piano though? I would have given it a go myself! ;)

BTW Rasoul jaan, do you still have the same bike? I love the colors. It's that classic light yellow which hasn't really been around for decades (since the early 70's if I'm not mistaked) and always refreshing to see on any new car or bike.

Mr, G. Sir!!
Yes I still have the same bike, longest term a bike could hang around with me.
When I went to buy the bike I looked at it and said to myself " May be Helen Keller has painted it. Who the heck in the world would paint a bike Canary Yellow?".
But after a little while it grew on me and know I really love the color. It is also an attention magnet. Parked among 100 other bike with ordinary colors and people stop by and check out my bike, that pisses off some of those high $ bike owners.:D:D
This past Sunday a small group of us took the bikes out for a 300 miles day ride, 70 deg. dry weather around Houston with not a single patch of clouds in the sky!!!! Yeeeehhhhaaaw.

BTW: I have Amir's email addy, lets set a date and where then I'll get in touch with him.

LMAO @ Hellen Keller. HK jokes never seem to stop or get old! :)

Yeah, it's a beautiful color and I'm not surprised it's an attention magnet. You just don't see the classic colors on the road too much anymore (cars or bikes) and when they try to imitate them on the new cars, it looks crappy because they make them too metallic. And all the new stuff looks the same. That's why I told you we were all over that metallic lime green Scirocco in Stockholm. Speaking of which, Mr. A, are you sure this car's coming in 2011? I looked all over the net yesterday and the only thing I found was bad news and more bad news! There are so many people in NA that are dying to buy this car and their stupid marketing strategy is that they don't want to take away from GTI sales!!! For me it's the Scirocco or no VW and I'm sure it's the same for many others, so I just don't understand what they're thinking.

BTW, I opened a new thread in the Generic corner for the Get-together, so that all discussions are in one place. The boys seem to be inclined toward the 2nd week of April, which means we'll miss 13-bedar, but still good enough for New Year event. :)

Mr, G.
I read it in Car & Driver Mag. saying it will be in NA in mid 2010 to be sold as 2011 model.
It should still be in:

http://www.caranddriver.com/

P.S I already responded to that thread.

LOOL, Rasoul jan, as one of my friends used to say, all stuff is good regrdless of its origin.

I totally agree with Eshghi, he is one of the most respected guys at ISP.

Man!! I don't know how do you come up with that class of vocabularies. Last time I heard "possi" or posse it was in John Wayne western movie.;)

P.S I disagree with "all stuff is good regardless of their origin". Some of the stuff I see in documentaries about tribal people in mid Africa or Amazon seem to be not so good. They don't even cover or pixolate them and to my surprise even the kids don't go "OOOOOOHHHH" while they're watching them.