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John W Dudley <videos@k-news.us>
- Friday, November 15, 2013 12:52 AM CST

Quick update - Vlad turned up at my bike shop in Jersey, Channel Islands (UK) earlier this week. He seems fine, in good spirits and smiling a lot ! We helped him out with a service on the bike and I understand he is now headed off through France.
Owen Lewis <owen_lewis@yahoo.com>
Jersey, uk - Saturday, October 9, 2010 8:45 PM CDT

Hi, My name is Tom Breedlove, I am Bob Breedlove's Dad. If you know Vladimirs story concerning his recovery time at our home here in Heyworth Illinois...you know that Bob loves Vlad.
The last thing I read was here... Google: Vladimir Yarets in Afrika. You can also Youtube Vlad. This will give you a "good" idea of what he is like.
Tom Breedlove <motorsickletom@yahoo.com>
heyworth, illinois U.S.A. - Monday, March 8, 2010 11:09 PM CST

Yes, this was a very big help. Thank you so much. I just got an e-mail (in early November) from one of Vladimir's sons about some paperwork (the title to his bike). It had something to do with Poland, too, but I couldn't quite figure out what they were asking. This is starting to make more sense, now. And it appears that Vladimir's journey is possibly nearing an end.
Jim Winterer <jcwinterer@stthomas.edu>
St. Paul, MN United States - Friday, November 6, 2009 3:39 PM CST

I met Yarets on the 10th of October in Berlin, he was looking well (a bit tired, it was a raining day) and in good spirits. I am a Russian speaking Dane and was very much surprised to meet such an interesting man in front of Brandenburger Tor. He asked me to convey greetings to his sons, but it turned out they met before I got to make the call.

From the guestbook on www.yarets.com I gather, that he is going to travel even more. Some days ago he met his son in Poland, as his son was going there. Currently, they are searching for a sign language translator to help him fill out papers at the Belorussian Embassy in Berlin, so I guess he returned to Berlin after a short stop in Poland.

I hope this was a help.
Louise Willemoes Poulsen <louise_willemoes@hotmail.com>
Aarhus, Denmark - Thursday, October 22, 2009 9:12 AM CDT

I received word in late July 2009 that Vladimir was in Italy. Not exactly sure how he got there from Thailand and Malaysia, where he had spent quite a bit of time.

If he's in Italy, he's getting close to home. Wonder when the journey will end.

Jim Winterer
Jim Winterer <jcwinterer@stthomas.edu>
St. Paul, Minnesota U.S.A. - Tuesday, August 4, 2009 1:37 PM CDT

Hello General Spragins I hope you are feeling better
I had a tripal bypass in 1992 had very good luck I hollered Ranger and went about my business
it realy felt good all the good ranger blood getting to my brains (what little I had left)I Wish you the very best
I think of you daily
Ranger Billy Sinor
ps I just rolled over to 80 years old
Billy Sinor <ranger1@cebridge.com>
Leesville , LA usa - Thursday, June 4, 2009 1:37 PM CDT

Vladimir is in the press again, but he has travelled quite some distance in between it seem suddenly
http://www.xpress4me.com/news/uae/dubai/20012598.html
JD
- Thursday, March 26, 2009 4:13 AM CDT

Hi Katy. Just want to say hi. hope you liked Kristin's demo cd. I'm happy to hear you will have some school work to do.hopefully it will help keep your mind busy.We are all sending you our well wishes and lots of love. Love,Aunt Carol xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
carol king <virgo1004@aol.com>
point pleasant bch, nj us - Wednesday, January 14, 2009 6:34 AM CST

visit katy mccool's guest book
carol king <virgo1004@aol.com>
point pleasant bch, nj us - Wednesday, January 14, 2009 6:28 AM CST

YARETS GO!!!!!!! you're my idol:D
huimin
singapore - Monday, January 12, 2009 10:45 AM CST

To the CaringBridge staff: you must have done a great job fixing Vladimir Yarets, I saw him and his bike in Singapore yesterday, he was in great shape and with a great smile on his face, showing his pictures and his route to a dozen bystanders.

Thanks!
Claudio Piombetti
Singapore, SG Singapore - Thursday, November 27, 2008 10:58 PM CST

Hi Vladimir,we have a lot of respect for what you are doing.You will lave The Kauri Museum in Matakohe in New Zealand where i met you.
Have a nice trip.
Ad Clarijs,shopmanager Kauri Museum <clarijsa@kaurimuseum.com>
Matakohe, New Zealand - Thursday, March 29, 2007 6:22 PM CDT

i dey oooooooooooooooooohhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh
agu <mumu@yahoo.com>
lome, lome togo - Thursday, March 29, 2007 4:37 AM CDT

Just to let you all know I met Vladimir yesterday 1st March 2007 (completely by chance) on the Interisland ferry between Picton in the South Island of New Zealand and Wellington in the North Island. He seemed very happy and friendly, and was shaking everyone's hands and posing for photographs. He looked very well, fit and cheerful. I wish him all the best in his amazing journey.
Vic Hungerford <vicandval@gmail.com>
Auckland, New Zealand - Friday, March 2, 2007 1:08 AM CST

Best wishes to you in your travels!What a great ride of life!Perhaps I may ride with you someday!? Ride long and safe Sir Vlad!
Robert Robinson <toolhyper@hotmail.com>
Smith's Grove, KY USA - Saturday, February 3, 2007 4:23 PM CST

Vladimir has arrived in Dunedin and is staying with us at Stafford Gables YHA.
He left Auckland on the 18-1-07 traveled to Rotorua - Gisborne - Wellington - Christchurch - Dunedin arriving on the 31 - 1 -7
2450km's in 9 days!
Imogen Berwick <Yha.dunedin@yha.co.nz>
Dunedin , - Wednesday, January 31, 2007 1:29 PM CST

Very interesting bloke. You have to admire his determination. Good luck with the rest of the trip.
David O'Grady <ogrady_david@hotmail.com>
Wellington, New Zealand - Sunday, January 21, 2007 11:53 PM CST

I'm glad Vladimir finally made it out of San Fran to New Z & Australia.I wondered if he'd ever leave the USA. We discussed his schlep - this is his life- & we pray for himn often - he'll need it.Please keep us posted at my e-mail: bcmurphy@netzero.net
Brendan C. Murphy <bcmurphy@netzero.net>
Littleton, CO USA - Monday, January 15, 2007 11:41 PM CST

hello mates, great respect for the MAN, he's doing what we all dream of.regards, dogsbollocks, Uk
trevor colledge <colledge@hotmail.co.uk>
Carnforth, lancs england - Sunday, December 31, 2006 2:27 AM CST

STARTED May 27, 2000...2006

1. Belarus, Minsk *300*
2. Poland *800* 5 Days
3. Germany *1400km* 16 Days
4. Netherlands *400* 2 Days
5. Belgium *400* 2 Days
6. Luxemburg *100* 2 Days
7. France *4100* 50 Days
8. United Kingdom *3000km* 47 Days (England-Wales-Scotland)
9. Ireland *650km* 8 Days
10. Northern Ireland *180km* 3 Days
11. Orkney Islands(U.K) *10km* 1 Day
12. Shetland Islands (U.K) *60km* 10 Days
13. Faroe Islands (Denmark) *25km* 3 Days
14. Iceland *1650km* 12 Days
15. Andorra *80km* 2 Days
16. Spain *1600km* 28 Days
17. Portugal *900km* 14 Days
18. Gibraltar (U.K) *80km* 4 Days
19. Marocco *1400km* 23 Days
20. Western Sahara *120km* 5 days
21. Canary Islands (Spain) *300km* 60 Days
22. Venezuela *2500km* 181 Days (Isla de Margarita)
23. Aruba *40km* 5 Days (Curacao - Bonaire, Lesser Antilles)
24. Puerto Rico (USA) *500km* 44 Days
25. Dominican Republic *650mk* 30 Days
26. Haiti *170km* 10 Days
27. Jamaica *800km* 40 Days
28. Cuba *1600km* 132 Days
29. Canada 11 + 6 provinces *32,000km* 270 Days
(Vancouver Island *Newfoundland* Nova Scotia *Prince Edward Island*)
30. Mexico *8640km* 46 Days
*Baja California* 1800km 6 Days
31. Belize *1000km* 8 Days
32. Guatemala *936km* 6 Days
33. Hawaii *Honolulu (USA) *60km* 44 Days
34. Alaska (USA) *3000km* 20 Days
35. USA = 50 States. HURRAY!!! + 52 States + 83,207km + 1182 Days + June 22, 2006 Honolulum Hawaii USA.
36. Australia: Tasmania - 945 Km = 10 Days (20600Km =120 Days) HURRAY!!!

36 Countries: 235 600 Km (2000-2006)
37. New Zealand ---------------->

MUSEUM
JAWA -350
START - 5-27-00 + 10-13-03 (ACCIDENT)
COUNTRIES - 48, TOTAL=149,000KM
USA-50 STATES = 54,000KM = 651 DAYS = HURRAY!!!

2004 = NEW BMW 650
Yarets <yarets@hotmail.com>
Sydney, NSW Australia - Wednesday, December 6, 2006 3:17 AM CST

Australia - Tasmania

Sydney - Brisbane - Cairns - Normanton - Ayers Rock(Uluru) - Darwin - Broome - Perth - Adelaide - Melbourne -(Tasmania - 945 km = 10 days) - Melbourne - Canberra - Sydney = 20 600 km = 120 days NURRAY

Start: 25.7.2006 Sydney
Finish: 22.11.2006 Sydney

Motorcycle BMW - 650

YHA Australia <yarets@hotmail.com>
Sydney, NSW Australia - Wednesday, November 22, 2006 7:09 PM CST

Australia - Tasmania
Sydney - Brisbane - Cairns - Normanton - Ayers Rock(Uluru) - Darwin - Broome - Perth - Adelaide - Melbourne -(Tasmania - 945 km = 10 days) - Melbourne - Canberra - Sydney = 20 600 km = 120 days Nurray

Start: 25.7.2006 Sydney
Finish: 22.11.2006 Sydney

Motorcycle BMW - 650

YHA Australia <yarets@hotmail.com>
Sydney, NSW Australia - Wednesday, November 22, 2006 7:08 PM CST

Sydney - Darwin - Perth - Melbourne - Canberra = 20145 KM = 109 days!

Helen
Canberra, ACT Australia - Friday, November 10, 2006 11:15 PM CST

Yarets has made it to Tasmania!! He arrived in Hobart yesterday 20/10 and is on day 88. He started in Sydney on 25/7 and has ridden 18741kms, reaching Hobart and staying for 5 days with us. We hope he enjoys our beautiful state! He just told me he is cold!!! and he's from Russia?!!
Kirsten @ Montgomery's Private Hotel and YHA <monty's@southcom.com.au>
Hobart, Tas Australia - Friday, October 20, 2006 6:32 PM CDT

good luck Vladimir Yarets...keep on riding!!!!
VLADIMIR RODE FROM SYDNEY 27/07/06 TO; Brisbane,Cairns, Normanton, Uluru, Darwin, Broome, Perth, Albany,Adelaide,Portland to MELBOURNE arriving 04/10/06 in 72days of travelling...18,166km WONDERFUL ACHEIVEMENT!!!!
Susan Taylor <info@bikebarn.com.au>
MELBOURNE, VIC AUSTRALIA - Thursday, October 5, 2006 1:22 AM CDT

Sydney To Adelaide in 62 days 17030km!!!!
MAtt <matt260zstuart@hotmail.com>
adelaide, sa australia - Wednesday, September 27, 2006 2:52 AM CDT

vladimir is staying with us (Neil Drogemuller and the Hamiltons) at kadina, South Australia Neil met Vladimir in Darwin and invited him back to stay.
Neil Drogemuller <markhlyn@bigpond.com>
Kadina, SA Australia - Tuesday, September 26, 2006 3:54 AM CDT

vladamir, pls contact me when near Melbourne. Will provide dinner and tent site in Melbourne (Hawthorn)(no spare rooms ;^( ) Derrick Sutton .Friend of Jim Winterer Ill USA Ph 03 9882 7701
Derrick Sutton
Melbourne, Vic Australia - Thursday, September 21, 2006 9:14 PM CDT

Hi Vladimir is now in Perth. It's September 9th. He left Sydney on July 25th and has done 13,600kms so far in just 45 days, not bad hey ? I think he's grateful for the cool change and no doubt he lost a few pounds from all the heat he experienced up north.
Ken Dobbie <kendobbie73@hotmail.com>
Perth, WA Australia - Saturday, September 9, 2006 7:24 PM CDT

ULADZIMER HAS JUST ARRIVED IN BROOME ON THE 3RD OF SEPTEMBER 10,802KM FROM SYDNEY. CONGRATULATIONS YOUR AN INSPIRATION 37 DAYS AND SO MUCH ACHIEVED. IN THIS HEAT ASWELL ! GOOD LUCK MATE EVERYONE HERE WILL KEEP TRACK OF YOUR TRAVELS.
BRET PERKINS <bretperkins@hotmail.com>
BROOME, WA AUSTRALIA - Sunday, September 3, 2006 1:34 AM CDT

Hi,

Valadimir is in Darwin in the Northern Territory now, 29/8/06. We are the BMW dealer here and we are going to help him with some minor parts for his bike. He is safe and well. He will be heading to Western Australia from here. He left Sydney on the 25/7/06 and has come 8,600km's in 32 days and arrived in Darwin on the 27/8/06.

GOOD LUCK VLADIMIR.

LIBBY.
LIBBY OPIE <elizabetho@honeycombescars.com.au>
DARWIN, NT AUSTRALIA - Monday, August 28, 2006 10:41 PM CDT

Hi Yarets... we loved having you here. A big thumbs up to you mate!!! All the best from the Gang at Port O Call Lodge in Port Douglas, Far North Queensland - Australia. Take care!
Jen O'Donnell <info@portocall.com.au>
Port Douglas, QLD Australia - Friday, August 11, 2006 7:41 PM CDT

Hi!

New gust book for my father - here -
http://www.yarets.com/gb/index.php

Best regards,
Yarets V.V. (son) | info@yarets.com
-------------------------------------
http://www.yarets.com
Belarus, Minsk
oae.(0297) 57-30-53

Vlad <info@yarets.com>
Minsk, Belarus - Tuesday, August 1, 2006 10:50 AM CDT

Gadday everyone, just letting you all know that Vladimir is safe and is currently down under in Brisbane Austraila. He is currently getting some problems fixed on his bike, and then heading off around Australia. It has been great getting to meet him a real inspiration !!
Karly Dundler <karlie84rose@hotmail.com>
Brisbane , Qld Australia - Monday, July 31, 2006 5:02 AM CDT

My co worker and his wife just returned from Honolulu Hawaii two weeks ago, and met Yarets, and chatted with him. the conversation went easy because my coworker and wife are deaf. Found him on the Waikiki Beach area, with the unmistakable bike and assorted gear and maps.

He is alive, doing well, and just fine! Next stop for him was Australia.
Chuck Kelley <Charles.Kelley@gallaudet.edu>
Washington, DC USA - Wednesday, July 5, 2006 11:22 AM CDT

I have just met Vladimir in San Francisco (04/30/06). He showed me his maps and I showed him Warsaw, Poland on the map, since this is where I came from. He was all smiles and we had picture taken togheter. Seems like he has been in SF for a while, maybe he is still waiting for a visa. What an incredible and inspirational guy he is.
Kathryn Sornat <katarzynams@hotmail.com>
San Jose, Ca USA - Monday, May 1, 2006 7:06 PM CDT

HOPE EVERYTHING IS GOING WELL I MET VLAD AT THE SHEANONDOAH HARLEY SHOP IN AUGUST 2005 IT WAS NEAT THE ONLY THING IS I WAS SO EXCITED THAT DID NOT GET AUTOGRAPH HOWEVER I DID GET A COUPLE OF PIC'S LET ME SEE IF I CAN FIND THEM LET ME KNOW IF YOU WUOLD LIKE TO SEE THEM THANK'S TAKE CARE AND GOOD LUCK IN TRAVEL'S
PETE MARSHALL <OCEANPETE8@AOL.COM>
NEWPORT NEWS, VA. USA - Thursday, March 23, 2006 5:37 AM CST

So has Vladimir secured a visa to New Zealand or Australia or Japan? His website's last entry, March 12, seems to indicate he is still in San Fran.
Wish him well on his travels to another country.
Kerry Willey - Hopedale, IL <kwilley@ilstu.edu>
Hopedale, IL USA - Thursday, March 16, 2006 1:05 PM CST

Feb.19,2006 San Francisco
Today we met Vladamir at the north entrance to the golden gate bridge.Being a biker myself, I had the most admiration for what he is doing and did not hesitate to help in his journey. When I pointed to his Harley patch and then to myself he understood that I was a Harley rider. He then gave us a big smile with a thumbs up!
J. L. Flynn
Sunnyvale, Ca. - Monday, February 20, 2006 1:17 AM CST

Ben,
Thanks very much for the update about Vladimir.

Please continue to give us news about how things are going, especially about his travel plans. This was the first I'd heard of New Zealand, although we had heard about Australia.

As you know it's a little hard to contact Vladimir directly. He can't respond by e-mail, and you can't exactly call him on the cell phone for a chat.

Tell him hello from his friends in Illinois and Minnesota, and that we got together for dinner Saturday night.

We hope he has good luck with his visa business.

Jim Winterer
Jim Winterer <jcwinterer@stthomas.edu>
St. Paul, MN USA - Wednesday, January 25, 2006 3:26 PM CST

Vladimir is in SF right now and he is doing good. he is hanging out with me right now for what ever time needed to get his Visa in place for NZ. My name is Ben and I do know Sign language and I ride a bike. I am thinking about this Sunday to take him up to Alice's Restaurant in Woodside CA. This is where Highway 84 and skyline meet.
Let me know if you want more info reg Vladimir right now.
My e-mail is Ben.ok@sbcglobal.net... just make Vladimir the subject!
Ben <ben.ok@sbcglobal.net>
SF, CA USA - Tuesday, January 24, 2006 9:21 PM CST

Vladimir sighting: Golden Gate Bridge. I met Vladimir at the vista point on the North end of the GG bridge on 1/19/06. We spoke for a few minutes and took a picture. I'll post on a couple local forums and see if anyone sees him and can tell him his tags are in IL.
Ken Misin <froride1@sbcglobal.net>
Sunnyvale, CA USA - Saturday, January 21, 2006 10:42 PM CST

Does anyone have a mailing address for Vladimir in San Francisco?

I have the new tabs to update the license plate on his 650 BMW. I would like to send the tabs to Vladimir.

You can contact me at jcwinterer@stthomas.edu or call my home in Minnesota at 651-698-4082.

Thanks very much
Jim Winterer <jcwinterer@stthomas.edu>
St. Paul, MN USA - Thursday, January 5, 2006 4:46 PM CST

This is Yarets Vladimir with help from someone who type a message for me. I want to wish you my 6 motorycled friends, who helped me in Illinois, a Merry Christmas with peace to you all. With big smile from Vladimir. Thank you for all your support.
Yarets, Vladimir <info@yarets.com>
San Francisco , CA - Friday, December 30, 2005 7:19 PM CST

If you see the V-man, give him a 'head butt' from the Pit Crew in Illinois. Maybe he is waiting in CA for better weather ot continue towards HOME?
KW
Kerry Willey <kwilley@ilstu.edu>
Hopedale, IL USA - Thursday, December 22, 2005 1:28 PM CST

Vladimir sighting, San Francisco, CA, USA on 12/15/2005
http://forums.pelicanparts.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=256280
Paul Williamson <pwilljunk@gmail.com>
- Thursday, December 15, 2005 1:19 PM CST

WOW THIS MAN IS AMAZING.
I AM GOING TO USE HIS MODEL IN MY FUTURE ENDEVORS.
THANKS FOR THE INSPIRATION
VLADIMIR!!!!!
R.J CHAPPS
0A0
BTTW
RICK CHAPP <RICKJAMESBTCH@MSN.COM>
SAINT CHARLES, IL US - Saturday, December 10, 2005 11:30 PM CST

I met up with Vladimir at the north entrance to the Golden Gate Bridge on Oct. 26, 2005 just at sunset. He was in indomitable spirits! He is one of only a handful of people that I've met in my 63 years who is sincerely chasing his dream. We all could learn a lot from him. Go Vladimir!
Neil F. Mayes <nf.mayes@comcast.net>
Seattle, WA USA - Monday, October 31, 2005 1:57 PM CST

I want to do this like you Vladimir. You must have a really, really GREAT heart.
It's no matter where are you come from, it's no matter what kind of motorbike you are ride.
If you are love live you will find friend everywhere.
I'm biker too, and some day I will go somwhere too on my bike. Now I need to care about my familly, and only sometime I can ride somwhere.
Next year - Georgia, Armenia and Kazakstan.
If you ever will be in Poland my hous is open for you.
Here is my adress: str. Laskowa 9,
11-700 Mragowo, POLAND.
tel. +48 897416893.
Go and discover the world and good people, and have a a fun. This is the sense of life.
Zbyszek Lach <laszek13@wp.pl>
Mragowo, POLAND - Monday, October 31, 2005 1:25 PM CST

"May the wind be at your back", Vladimir.
Last night around 10:30 pm, me and my husband were sitting outside of my hotel that i work at and seen a man drive up on a very decorated motorcycle. I was impressed and my husband also. I had never heard anything about him till last night when I met him. He needed a room and told me that he only had 25 dollars to spend on a room. so my husband told me that he would pay the rest if I would give vladimir a room. He was very energetic and happy. he let me see all of his pictures and maps of where he had been and i thought that it was really interesting. He touched my family very deeply. (my husband wouldn't do that for anyone, not even our kids). I hope he does well and if anyone sees him please let me know. If there is anywhere I can send some money or support of anykind let me know...
Chantel Watts <Countrygirl1712002@yahoo.com>
St. George, Utah USA - Wednesday, August 17, 2005 1:34 PM CDT

Got a couple pictures of Vladimir on I-80 this weekend headed towards Denver. Wish we would have had time to stop and meet with him.

Date: 8/5/2005

Picture 1

Picture 2

Curt Gran <curtgran@execpc.com>
Franklin, WI USA - Monday, August 8, 2005 6:43 PM CDT

IF you know where Vlad is & I can get him a message of contacts in Japan that may help him out, call me at work 309-438-2635 or email at kwilley@ilstu.edu. Vladimir left Paul's house after a 1 night stay on July 29th, headed west!
Kerry <kwilley@ilstu.edu>
Hopedale, IL USA - Monday, August 1, 2005 11:47 AM CDT

Vladimir was back thru the Peoria, IL area this past weekend seeing his friends at the hospital. Here is a link to another article about Vlad. http://www.register-mail.com/stories/073005/LOC_B74HL56V.GID.shtml. Missy and I were just sorry we did not get to visit with him.
Chris & Missy Derham <derham@insightbb.com>
- Monday, August 1, 2005 9:11 AM CDT

I met Vladimir today at the Fairfax Motel. I am a reporter for the Springfield News-Sun and am writing a story on him. A lot of the motel guests met him and he was showing his pictures for everyone. Someone said he plans to go to Japan next, but I'm not sure.
Jenna <jsauber@coxohio.com>
Springfield, OH USA - Tuesday, July 19, 2005 3:07 PM CDT

July 15th
We have had 2 phone calls in the past week to let us know of Vladimir's whereabouts, today being Niagara Falls, NY.
He has made it clear that he is planning to attend the BMW National Rally in Lima, Ohio, which runs from the 21-23 of July at the Fairgrounds.
We will make a point to ride out and meet with him again and maybe some of his "pitcrew" might want to do the same.

Alan and Marlies Sands <sands@csolve.net>
Toronto, ON Canada - Thursday, July 14, 2005 8:56 PM CDT

met vladimir in nyc this afternoon at w110 st and broadway. he plans to leave nyc tomorrow, maybe head north a little before going west. amazing man.
frank machine
ny, ny usa - Wednesday, July 6, 2005 9:11 PM CDT

Met Vladimir on 6/18/05 in Delaware County, PA while riding with friends. We took him to Barb's HD in Camden, NJ where she opened her store and gave him some items to add to his collection. She then took us all to dinner. After a spending the day with him we took him back to Philadelphia to a hostel to spend the night. He is amazing.
JD Neary <97rk@comcast.net>
Eddystone, PA USA - Friday, June 24, 2005 9:28 AM CDT

Ran into Vladimir in southern Virginia on 6 June 2005. We were returning home from vacationing in northern Virginia. He had commandeered a local deaf person to help him to get some sort of local help. I am not sure what, but he was in good spirits and good health.
Tim Bishop
Valdosta, GA USA - Wednesday, June 8, 2005 8:26 PM CDT

The last bit of news is that Vladimir is in Texas, U.S.A., after traveling in Mexico and some other Latin American countries (not sure which ones). I'm told he is seeking a visa to Japan. Meanwhile, he must have about 10 months remaining on his visa to visit here in the U.S.A.

Any news is welcome. It was fun to see the note from his friends at the care home in Peoria. I hope the little birds that Vladimir used to "play with" in their cage by the cafeteria have settled down. Vladimir said he was just trying to give them a little exercise.

We are wonder how those huge saddlebag-suitcase-airplane hanger things attached to the back of his BMW are holding up.
Jim Winterer <jcwinterer@stthomas.edu>
St. Paul, MN USA - Monday, May 9, 2005 4:27 PM CDT

Found Vlad parked next to my bike on Congress Ave. in Austin, TX, when I came out of a print shop after dropping off some work. We "talked" about bikes and travelling for a few minutes, but unfortunately I hade another appointment and couldn't stay longer. He appears healthy as an ox and ready for the next leg of his trip up to the middle of the US before heading west to cross the Pacific.
Chris <cyclecats@excite.com>
Austin, TX USA - Monday, May 9, 2005 2:16 PM CDT

5 MAY - 64 year - my father -
Yarets Vladimir Alekseyevich!
Happy Birthday - Father!
Vladimir V. Yarets <info@yarets.com>
Minsk, Belarus - Thursday, May 5, 2005 2:20 PM CDT

All of us at OSF St. Francis Hospital have been thinking about Vladimir and hoping he is healthy and happy!!! He was a breath of fresh air when he was a patient here, and we all miss him! Glad to here that he has resumed his travels! God Bless!!
Jamie Nora
Peoria, ILL USA - Wednesday, March 9, 2005 10:13 AM CST

F.Y.I. Tom Breedlove here, Vladimir has found his way out of Canada and has made his way down the coast of California. Last week he left Brattin BMW in San Diego for parts unknown. All of us on his Illinois pit crew wish him well.
Tom Breedlove <thomaz900cc@yahoo.com>
Heyworth, IL. U.S.A. - Thursday, February 3, 2005 9:37 AM CST

Hello!
Yes!
See www.yarets.com
Official site (domainname) for my father
Yarets Vladimir Alekseyevich

Best regards, Yarets Vladimir Vladimirovich
Vladimir <mail@yarets.com>
Minsk, Belarus - Monday, December 27, 2004 12:50 AM CST

Just thought I would share this email I received at home today. And would love to know of Vlad's latest progress if anyone knows.

Hello ,
My name is Alexey. I a deaf person, live to Minsk, Belarus. From the newspaper
I have learned(found out), that Jarets Vladimir makes round-the-world travel on
motorcycle BMW - 650. I transfer(pass) hello from his(its) fellow countrymen and we
wish it(him) to get in the book of records.

Yours faithfully Alexey.

Melissa
Melissa Derham <derham@insightbb.com>
Galesburg, IL U.S.A. - Monday, December 20, 2004 9:05 PM CST

Hi...
saw Vladimir Today in Nov 21st at Alma and Brodway gas station.....
he is on his way to S.A he says and he looks in good health..
all the best from
Ivan & Elwira
ivan
vancouver, bc canada - Sunday, November 21, 2004 6:54 PM CST

Hi Vlad,

I met you at the Old Courthouse Hostel in Kamloops, British Columbia on 8th October 2004. I was the British guy from Scotland who subbed you $20 towards your trip. Good luck and take care, the world needs more folk like yourself, with adventure and peace in their heart. Drop by Scotland again sometime and stay in my own hostel in Fort William. Cheers,

Alan Kimber <info@fortwilliamholiday.co.uk>
Fort William, Scotland - Friday, November 19, 2004 4:33 PM CST

I talked to Vladimir some more today and he is looking to boat his way to Mexico. I gathered that he wansn't allowed into the US. Anway I've posted some pics on my blog. www.motoyen.com
Anthony <motoyen@hotmai.com>
Vancouver, - Tuesday, November 2, 2004 7:25 PM CST

I saw the V-man yesterday in Vancouver, BC. I didn't know who he was but after looking at his pictures and watching his enthusiastic signing I took a picture and gave him a few bucks. For those in Van I saw him on the corner of Robson and Granvill.
http://www.bimmerclassics.net/forum/showthread.php?t=430
Anthony
Vancouver, - Friday, October 29, 2004 8:53 PM CDT

I saw Vladimir at the Western Insitute for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing in Vancouver, B.C. on October 13th 04.
I spoke with him for a couple of hours using sign language. I am also deaf. He is trying get his Visa renewed so he can ride his bike thru the U.S.A. on his way to Mexico then South America. I guess if he fails, he will get a boat to Mexico and that is what he was talking about at Trev Dealy's motorcycle shop. He looks very good and is in good health. I wish him luck on his journey.
Doug Clifton <djclifton@shaw.ca>
Surrey, B.C. Canada - Friday, October 15, 2004 0:30 AM CDT

Jim, in answer to your question, I think Vladimir is on his way to Mexico. I received a call from Trev Deeley Motorcycles in Vancouver on behalf of Vladimir on October 13/04 and was told that he was to be catching a boat on the 15,16 or 17 to Mexico. I tried to find out if it was this month but the lady (Sherri?) I spoke to did not know what month Vladimir was going. She was trying to understand his hand motions while I was talking to her.
I sure hope he makes it so he can be on his way again.
Ride-On Vladimir
Glenn Roberts (Motorcycle Mojo Magazine) <glenn@motorcyclemojo.com>
Thornton, ON Canada - Thursday, October 14, 2004 9:43 AM CDT

Wow, this is really interesting. Vladimir is now in Vancouver! If anyone knows why he is there, and not in Toronto, please let us know.

One guess, and this is a total guess, is that he's somehow looking for a boat to take him and his motorcycle to Mexico or possibly Central America, so he can resume his trek around the world. At the moment, as far as we know, he has not been able to renew his visa so he can return to the United States.

Yesterday was the first anniversary of Vladimir's accident in Illinois. Go V-Man Go!

Jim Winterer
Jim Winterer <jcwinterer@stthomas.edu>
St. Paul, MN U.S.A. - Thursday, October 14, 2004 8:37 AM CDT

Hey! I met this really great guy, deaf & mute, outside of the place I work at, Trev Deeley Motorcycles. He was showing my friend and coworker Russ stuff on his bike. I looked closer and saw that there were stickers & all sorts of crap all over this one bike! Anyway, our receptionist gave me the article about him in the "Motorcycle Mojo" Special Edition 2004, and I found out that it was him. Very cool. What a gutsy guy.
Danae c/o Trev Deeley Motorcycles
Vancouver, BC Canada - Wednesday, October 13, 2004 7:12 PM CDT

Walking home on this rare sunny fall afternoon in Vancouver British Columbia I happened upon Vladimir parked outside the Vancouver Institute for the Deaf. Being a fellow BMW rider I was immediately engaged in an exchange with him about his trip. I think it's the kind of thing that most of us dream of doing, but only a few ever will.

David Loosmore <dloosmore@yahoo.com>
Vancouver, BC Canada - Tuesday, October 12, 2004 7:30 PM CDT

I am very glad to hear Vladimir is doing okay. You can say Vlad and I have somewhat of a history. My name is Melissa and I am a nurse that had the pleasure of taking part in Vladimirs challenging recovery in Peoria, Illinois. We became pretty good friends during his lengthy (and sometimes overwhelming) recovery. Over the few months, I grew to know and love Vladimir and wish him only the best. I know from the outpour of visitors, gifts and donations there are a lot of other people he has touched the way he touched me. I only wish we would have met under better circumstances. Anyway it is good to know he is getting along so well. There is no doubt in my mind, Vladimir will be fine wherever he ends up. For those of you that come in contact with him please let him know I think of him often and would love to get a phone call. My name and number are in his address book.
Melissa Derham <derham@insightbb.com>
Galesburg, IL USA - Friday, October 8, 2004 9:20 PM CDT

I met Vladimir this afternoon (Sept 27) outside the Eatons Centre in downtown Toronto. He was sitting on a small stool with his photos and articles about him on the ground; a constant ebb and flow of people moved about him - reading his story, looking at the photographs and smiling back at his infectious grin and constant "thumbs up" signs.

He was in fine form, and it was a pleasure to meet him - best of luck, Vladimir!
BH
Toronto, ON Canada - Monday, September 27, 2004 1:59 PM CDT

Today on Elgin street I saw Valdimir with his parked bike. He set up a map with many pictures of his trip on the wall of a local eatery, and curiosity brought me to it. I walked up, and he showed me his progress, and then showed me his goal. I saw the sign saying that he is deaf, but that was no barrier to communications, I speak russian and with the help of a pen and some paper, we were able to "talk" about his trip, and him, and he asked me about myself, and my family, and it was very nice. He then "asked" me to call his sons in Minsk, and tell them that he is in Ottawa and in good shape, wich I did promptly. It's awesome to meet a fellow comrad in a land of strangers, even if he can not speak.
Ariane <ariane@mailsahck.com>
Ottawa, ON Canada - Tuesday, September 21, 2004 8:35 PM CDT

Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Today, September 20th, 2004 I was walking down Elgin Street with my friend Rick, when we spotted a GS 650 riding down the street with Belarus written in large letters on the trunk case. A short walk later and we came upon Vladimir parking his bike. I was very curious and went to speak to meet him. After an enjoyable 20 minute visit, we learned about Vladimir�s goal to be in the Guinness Book of World Records, and he showed us photo�s of his tour starting with the old Jawa 350 in Russia, Europe, the US and Canada. Then we saw photo�s of the bike after his accident. His new BMW GS650 is really nice and well setup for this type of touring. After placing a phone call on Vladimir�s behalf to one of his friends, we wished him well.

Howard Chatterton <inspirologic@rogers.com>
Ottawa, On Canada - Monday, September 20, 2004 10:23 PM CDT

Met up with Vladimir in downtown Toronto, yesterday, September 5, 2004. I am walking down the street and see this loaded-up BMW on the sidewalk... I've been a motorcyclist for 2/3 of my life and it caught my attention to say the least. When I saw the maps and read the story, I couldn't help but be moved and inspired. I've been loosely planning a cross-Canada trip to happen in the next couple of years. Seeing Vladimir, at his age with his "handicaps" and having had such a terrible accident in the US, has only inspired me more. Motorcycling is also in my blood.

In any case, I gave him all the money I had in my wallet and I guess that was enough to befriend him instantly! Haha... We tried to communicate with little success, but he did make me write down the phone number of the Russian Consulate in Puerto Rico. I'm still not sure what that's about, but I think I'll try to figure it out.

Vladimir seemed to be in great spirits on a hot, sunny day on a busy street in Toronto. He is definitely an inspiration to me, and I wish him the best of luck in his future riding, wherever that takes him!
Dustin Sharrow <dls53@hotmail.com>
Toronto, ON Canada - Monday, September 6, 2004 6:37 PM CDT

Hello everyone,
I just wanted to write a quick note to say that I crossed paths with Vladimir as he drove though Ottawa, Ontario today. The large yellow BMW with "Minsk, Belarus" on the windshield is pretty unmistakable! I gave him a big wave, he nodded and smiled back, and then took off. For the rest of the day, I have been imagining where he has been and where he is going, and I am looking forward to reading the next chapter in his adventure, wherever it may be.
What an inspirational story!
Neil Goedhuis <njgoedhuis@hotmail.com>
Ottawa, ON Canada - Saturday, August 21, 2004 4:30 PM CDT

Hi all!
Nice to catch at least a fleeting glimpse of Vladimir earlier this week (I think it was the 11th of August). I felt like I was meeting a celebrity...even though I was simply driving past him near my hometown of Orangeville, Ontario. Vladimir! All the best, and I hope you had a chance to stop in for lunch in Orangeville. I probably won't get an opportunity to meet you, but your story (in Motorcycle Mojo Magazine) inspired me, and I am sure every other person that read the story, to never back down from what I really want to do!

To the people I saw riding with Vladimir, you are truly lucky people, and I wish that I had the opportunity to do the same.

Best wishes,

Buck
Brett <buck@r2-c2.com>
Orangeville, ON Canada - Saturday, August 14, 2004 2:14 PM CDT

Good day!
See demo-site (russian)
http://www.orfica.com/yarets
guestbook
http://www.orfica.com/yarets/index.php

Vladimir Yarets (son)
Vladimir <info@orfica.com>
Minsk, Belarus - Thursday, August 12, 2004 11:24 AM CDT

My Dad and I met Vladimir in September 2003 while elk hunting in Wyoming. We had gone down from the mountains to a town called Tensleep for some supplies. What an interesting guy. He showed us his map marking where he had been, and described where he was going next. I think he had just come from Alaska ?

Anyway, I really didn't know he had such a following until today when my Dad called and told me he had a conversation with his UPS guy about Vladimir. Not sure how/why it came up, but my dad began telling the story of meeting a guy traveling the world on a jawa, with the stickers all over his bike. The UPS guy knew of him and said he had just printed an article on the accident in Illinois for a friend that was from Russia that either knows Vladimir, or knows of him. That's when I searched the internet and found out a lot of interesting details on his journeys. What a great guy, very inspirational.

Sorry to hear about the accident, glad you're continuing your quest Vladimir...good luck!!
Justin <pearljam_65@yahoo.com>
Brookfield, WI USA - Tuesday, August 10, 2004 3:32 PM CDT

After publishing an article by Liz Bokfi in Motorcycle Mojo Magazine, summer edition, I was curious to find out what happened to Vladimir. I was directed to his story on the internet and my heart sank as I read about his tragic accident. However, after continuing through to the end of the story everything did seem to come together for Vladimir and I had hoped to meet him someday on his journey once again. On August 8th we were fortunate to be invited to have dinner with Vladimir, Alex, and Egor at the home of Alan and Marlise Sands. We have now made arrangements to have a booth for Vladimir at Friday the 13th in Port Dover, Ontario. This will allow Vladimir to show his amazing story to many more fellow riders and should bring him much more encouragement and strength to continue his amazing journey.
GWEN (MOTORCYCLE MOJO MAGAZINE) <gwen@motorcyclemojo.com>
THORNTON, ON Canada - Monday, August 9, 2004 10:46 AM CDT

I met him in Toronto, Ontario last month. We chatted for an hour. I understood 80% of what he said because we used gesture. He is very courageous and determined man. Deafness did not stop him. I am so proud of him. he made me wanting to buy a motorcycle and to travel just like him to prove the world that deaf people can do anything what hearing people do.

Paul
Paul LeDrew <pwledrew@rogers.com>
Toronto, Ont Canada - Thursday, August 5, 2004 10:19 PM CDT

Hi Alan,

I learned yesterday that Vladimir is back at Alex' home in Toronto. The good news is that he now has in his possession the official title for his BMW F-650. The bad news, of course, is that he doesn't have a visa to re-enter the United States.

We down here in the United States needed one more ownership document from Vladimir before they will allow us to ship his smashed-up Jawa back to Belarus. We think Alex might be able to send it to us. If not, I'm not sure what we're going to do with the thing.

You're right, it sounds like Vladimir got lucky (again) when he met Alex in Toronto.

I'm glad you had a chance to meet Vladimir.
Jim Winterer <jcwinterer@stthomas.edu>
St. Paul, MN 55116 - Friday, July 23, 2004 10:03 AM CDT

Vladimir is alive and well !

Today is Tuesday, July 20th/2004.
Vladimir has just returned from the east coast of Canada (Newfoundland and a touch of Labrador). Our group of senior
bikers, AKA �The Prostate Touring Association� met up with him in Natashquan, Quebec, where we were loading our bikes onto a supply ship, the Nordic Express, that services the communities along the north shore of the St.Lawrence river.
His intentions are to travel through the USA via �Deals Gap� where we figure he would garner support from the continuous flow of bikers riding �The Tail of the Dragon� www.tailofthedragon.com) and continue through the States into Mexico and down to Central and South America.
Unfortunately it looks as if he might be stuck here in Toronto because when he was last in the USA he overstayed his visa. (Big Deal!) and they have refused to issue him another visa!
This would mean shipping his bike to Mexico and him having to fly there to re-unite with his bike.
Vladimir is very fortunate to have met, quite by accident, a fellow countryman, Alexander Mankovski, with whom he is staying while the predicament unfolds.
I hope his animated charisma will get him over this hurdle, but it doesn�t look too hopeful at this time.
Maybe some pressure from the press might move things in his favour. Keep your fingers crossed.
Alan B. Sands
sands@csolve.net

Alan B. Sands <sands@csolve.net>
Tottenham, Ontario, Canada - Tuesday, July 20, 2004 2:55 PM CDT

Thanks for the update, Percy. His friends here in the United States are always happy to hear news about what Vladimir is up to and where he is.

We knew he was in Canada, and I've sent the title to his new BMW motorcycle to friends in Toronto. We hope he stops back to his friend's home so he can pick it up. The title, from Minnesota, will be very helpful to have when he crosses international borders or needs to ship his motorcycle to another country.

We weren't sure why Vladimir decided to go to Canada, other than he told us several times, back when he was in a nursing home in Illinois, that he wanted to go to eastern Canada to add more Canadian locations to his travel map.

We explained to him repeatedly that, because of his long-expired U.S. visa, if he crossed into Canada, he would not be allowed re-entry into the United States. This, of course, has nothing to do with his accident.

It would be great if his efforts to get another U.S. visa are successful, but if not, he should be able to ship his motorcycle to Mexico and resume his around-the-world trip from there.

It's good to hear that Vladimir has his memory back :)
Jim Winterer <jcwinterer@stthomas.edu>
St. Paul, MN USA - Monday, July 12, 2004 9:07 AM CDT

hey , good luck trip to toronto.. keep safe trip and watch on your back from the truck.. good luck
Percy Anthony <panthony@nbnet.nb.ca>
Fredericton,New Brunswick, n.b canada - Sunday, July 11, 2004 4:30 PM CDT

Hello, just mention to any of you who might want to know about where he is now...okay, last Wednesday afternoon, 7th of July 2004, I met Vlad communicating excitedly with my wife and deaf friend in sign language at the parking lot in Fredericton, New Brunswick. He was welcome to stay at my home for overnight. Next day in the early morning, he left the city heading to Toronto to meet his friends ...he told me that he rode a motorcyle approaching Mexico but he changed his mind not to cross the border. The reason why he returned back to Illinois, then up north to Toronto where his Russian friends live ( I guess) was because he got his memory back to what he believes that truck driver was blamed for carelessly driving while reaching something pop or cell phone. He's seeking for help to sue the truck driver for recklessly driving. He stated that if he loses the lawsuit, he might fly home safely. And he was unable to cross the border to America because not sure if I understood what he meant - his passport was outdated? - he thinks America Customs protected him away from the lawsuit against the trucking company or what..I hope any of you could help him to resolve that situation he might feel confused with. And I am sure he will stay in Toronto as long as he can ...maybe you can contact someone thru the Russia Community that may recognize him. Wish you Good Luck.

Ken
Ken Nason
Fredericton, NB Canada - Friday, July 9, 2004 7:29 PM CDT

On the evening of Saturday , June 26th, 2004. Yarets Vladimir
arrived at our Motel , we read about his adventure so far and were very supportive of his courage to continue his trip.
We donated a motel room to him for the night as it was raining and getting very foggy, the next day about 11:30 a.m Yarets contined on toward Port-Aux-Basque to catch the Ferry back to the mainland . We wish Yarets God's speed and good luck on finishing his trip and to being entered into the Guinesses World book of records.
Midway Motel <diane.macdonald@nf.sympatico.ca>
T.C.H. Robinson's, Newfoundland Canada - Monday, June 28, 2004 1:04 PM CDT

I know this is late, but I want to say it is touching how everyone has helped here. I hope he is safe on his journeys and that everyone else here is proud of their assistance as well. It makes the heart feel good!
Jerry Lee <jerry.lee@hp.com>
Folsom, CA US - Wednesday, June 23, 2004 11:33 AM CDT

Ride on, Vladimir

Jim Shurts <o.shurts@att.net>
Peoria, il USA - Saturday, June 12, 2004 8:45 PM CDT

Hi! I had the good fortune to met Vladimir in Caracas, Venezuela (South America) back in 2001. Definitively, a very kind and friendly person to meet.
I still got some pics from that time. If anyone is interested, please let me know...
Johnny Graterol Guevara <alfonso_jgg@hotmail.com>
Caracas, Miranda Venezuela - Saturday, June 5, 2004 4:00 AM CDT

Hey, this is just great. I hope everyone can post their Vladimir sightings here for as long as possible. It seems like the best possible way for all of his friends to keep tabs on him.

I've finally gotten around to updating that front-page introduction on this Web site,, and mentioned that we are no longer collecting donations, since it's so difficult to get them to him.

Oh, if you do have photos of him, and can put them on a Web site, please post the link here in your guestbook entry.

While he's not exactly headed straight for San Diego, as was his plan at the time he left Paul's home in Morton, Illinois, the news we hear is that he's doing just fine. I'm sure he's getting used to that great new motorcycle and life on the road.

Keep us posted, everyone.
Jim Winterer <jcwinterer@stthomas.edu>
St. Paul, MN USA - Wednesday, May 26, 2004 2:04 PM CDT

Hello Everyone, May 24th, 2004.

Vladimir just left my house this morning. I can honestly say I am a better person for meeting him. He is truly a courageous, and spirited man. He leaves a mark wherever he goes! (and it is a good one!) We spent two days at the house and we fattened him up with a good barbeque, and my friend David gave him a new Gerber Leatherman which he loved! (it's a multi tool). We also armed him and his bike with alot of reflective tape and straps....we don't need to hear about the good guy getting hit again. I took him shopping to circuit city and then to a book store. I tell ya' walking around with that guy is like trying to herd wild cats! I am glad that I met him! If you meet him, you can trust him with the world. He is a good man. Please call me if you run into him.
William Guy <guywi@9mcd.usmc.mil>
Milwaukee, WI USA - Monday, May 24, 2004 7:40 PM CDT

Soon, I should have pictures of Vladimir's departure from Paul's house in Morton, IL. (check back here for the link)This is our first weekend without Vladimir. Kind of sad, kind of happy, that he is on the road again. IF you see him, please post here or call. HE has our #s. IF he doesn't understand who is asking for a call, just point to Morton, IL or Hopedale, IL on the map!
Kerry Willey <kwilley@ilstu.edu>
Hopedale, IL USA - Saturday, May 22, 2004 8:01 AM CDT

Vladimir's story is heart-warming. I only wish I'd learned of it sooner so that I could have seen him resume his journey from Geneva, IL.
Jodi Hendricksen
Wheaton, IL USA - Friday, May 14, 2004 9:52 AM CDT

At TwinCity BMW in Savoy, Il. I saw Mr. Yarets pull up on his yellow F650 covered in stickers. We didnt share words but we spent a few minutes looking over his bike and motioning to the stickers on his saddle bags that tell his cause. I found out through someone that rode in with him that he is on his way to Central and South America then on his way to southeast Asia! When I heard that, I was amazed. I didnt get his name on saturday but a quick google search of "first deaf mute" and "ride around world" brought up this page where I read of his accident back in October of 03.

It's amazing that I met this guy completely by chance and only spent a few minutes with him and it has forever touched my heart.

I saw him on the 8th of May.
David Bellmore <matrix23@insightbb.com>
Urbana, Il USA - Monday, May 10, 2004 9:52 AM CDT

i used to take care of MR.yarets, he is a GREAT person, and he is one of the best people i have met in my whole life. well if someone sees him tell him that all of us, at OSF ST. CLARE say hi, and good luck
PHILLIP WHITE <p_white75@hotmail.com>
CREVE COEUR, IL USA - Saturday, May 8, 2004 11:31 AM CDT

I met Vladimir on the road in the midle of the eastern Oregon dessert in August, maby early September of '03 while riding around the western US. We rode for a few days together, visiting friends in Idaho and then he was off. I was crushed to hear of his experience in Il. Lost contact info of Jim Winterer and just know fount a piece if paper in my shop with the info for the website.Any one who may 'communicate" with Yarets, tell him POW-POW sends his best. He'll remember me! Anyone who can provide a phone # so I may call to give him a shout, it would be appreciated. I just found this website and was dissapointed to see I missed the send-off party just days ago. It's great to see all the support he's recieved from everyone. God Bless.
In the Wind-POW-POW/ N.CAL>
Richard Dahlke <rndahlke@earthlink.net>
Walnut Creek, CA USA - Wednesday, April 21, 2004 1:39 PM CDT

All the best... from one tough old coot to another. Be well... travel safe... enjoy the US and the world. It's a better place than we give it credit for being!
Todd VanSlyke <tbvanslyke@comcast.net>
Evanston, IL 60201 - Monday, April 19, 2004 11:26 AM CDT

Need to let Vladimir know that importing a motorcycle into Australia is a nightmare. Just coming to a close for the "Globe Team" I am helping here at the moment. The bikes did not have the correct documentation, wrong Carnet des Passage, resulting in very hefty delays and storage charges. It must be done right BEFORE the bike arrives in Australia, OR ELSE!
Don Black
Sydney, NSW Australia - Saturday, April 17, 2004 10:05 PM CDT

Glad you are back on your feet! If your travel take you through texas and dallas I'll be honored to meet with you.

Alberto Bonfiglio <albertob@codebuilders.com>
Dallas, TX USA - Saturday, March 20, 2004 8:07 PM CST

All the best, mate get back on your feet (and on your bike) soon. There's only one way, and that's the highway. Cheers, catch you when you come to Oz.
Arnie <gyroscope_32@hotmail.com>
Katherine, NT Australia - Saturday, March 6, 2004 0:14 AM CST

thanks to Tom Breedlove for sharing those great pics of Vladimirs great momemnt ah la BMW. Thanks to Jim Winterer for the warning. Vladimir will like Australia. He will probably want to stay! Just to remember the sun block cream and insect repellent! No that will be fine to keep an eye on him. We already had experience with Russian Professor of Science Academy Moscow, but Vlad will be quiet and not bang things around in the nite. Right! Not!
Don Black
Sydney, NSW Australia - Sunday, February 22, 2004 5:36 AM CST

Hey Don from Australia,

Vladimir's heading your way. He's first got to get through this little place called South America, but when he gets to the bottom, his next stop is that other little place called Australia.
Jim Winterer <jcwinterer@stthomas.edu>
St. Paul, MN USA - Thursday, February 12, 2004 5:55 PM CST

hi!
SEE New MOTOCICLE Yarets Vladimir Alekseyevich BMW !!!

http://acv.by.com/yarets/2004.html

Yarets Vladimir ( son) <vlad@orfica.com>
Minsk, Belarus - Wednesday, February 11, 2004 6:59 PM CST

Hooray for Tag Sport BMW in Geneva Illinois and the American motorcycling community, the doctors and nurses, and everyone else responsible in this remarkable tale of triumph over adversity! Hooray for Vladimir! Wonderful!
Don Black
Sydney, NSW Australia - Tuesday, February 10, 2004 8:52 PM CST

Don Black,
Please send me your e- address again. My message would not go thru.
Thanks.
Tom.
Tom Breedlove <thomaz900cc@yahoo.com>
Heyworh, IL. U.S.A. - Tuesday, February 10, 2004 9:26 AM CST

The words are hard to find that can adequately express my feelings for both our hero Vladimir and for the American motorcycle community. It is truly a testament to the indomitable spirit of the moto-adventurer to hear that he is doing so well so soon! I met Vlad at the falling leaf rally in MO and was deeply distressed at the news of his accident. Now I only wish I could have been at the party to have seen him as he recieved the new bike! Hey Vlad, stop in to Engle BMW-Triumph in KC,MO for your first service...it's on me!
Lee Garrett <hiwayman1100@hotmail.com>
Leavenworth , KS USA - Monday, February 9, 2004 9:40 AM CST

It looks like Vlad has been doing well. You guys have already got him in the clutches of the PR folks....
A trip to Chicago sounds like he is up and at it again. Good for him.
Jay Gray <jaygray@comcast.net>
Shorewood, IL USA - Thursday, February 5, 2004 6:39 PM CST

Tom McIntyre here:
We're taking a video crew to Chicago Saturday, and the Story should air in Peoria on WEEK Sunday night. I'll
try and convince the folks at NBC to pick up the story for use around the country. No promises.
Tom McIntyre <tamcintyre@yahoo.com>
Peoria, IL USA - Tuesday, February 3, 2004 9:47 PM CST

Tom Breedlove Here,

If any one would like pics' from the Chicago show that we are taking Vladimir to, just let me know. They will be available 2/9. Please leave me a brief message at the e-address below and I'll do my best to get them to you quickly.
God Bless,

Tom.
Tom Breedlove <thomaz900cc@yahoo.com>
Heyworth, IL. USA - Tuesday, February 3, 2004 6:53 PM CST

Thirteen years ago my wife and son visited Russia privately and were treated with great generosity everywhere. It is heart warming to see that our country can be so generous too. I especially am thankful that the locals have taken care of you. I think that the response would have been similar in just about part of this country. Maybe one day we will meet. Best Wishes on your journey.
Duane Ausherman <w6rec@softcom.net>
Galt, CA USA - Tuesday, February 3, 2004 11:11 AM CST

Rick Martin

Is this a private trip--or can others join you and Vladimir on January 31? I can't imagine what the bike must look like. But I understand that he would want to see it.
Kathy Bellott <kbellott@yahoo.com>
Normal, IL USA - Wednesday, January 28, 2004 5:43 PM CST

Vladimir, you are one tough cookie. It fills my heart with joy to hear that you are on your way to a full recovery. Motorcycling is a dangerous sport but the risks are worth it. Nothing is more fulfilling. My wife was involved in a serious bike crash on her Honda last summer but she is well on her way to recovering too! Godspeed and ride safe.
John Beaupre <maicomax@hotmail.com>
Boylston, MA USA - Tuesday, January 27, 2004 4:07 PM CST

You are a little too far away to visit in person, so I keep coming back to read about how you are recovering. You are making remarkable progress. If you make it to Southern California you are of course welcome to stay with us. I found your story so fantastic that I wrote to Jay Leno and told him that you should be on the Tonight Show, he loves motorcycles and I'm sure he would your adventure to his liking. Good Luck and Best Wishes
Clark Norwood
Mission Viejo, CA U.S.A. - Tuesday, January 27, 2004 3:45 PM CST

Vladimir will make his long awaited first road trip this coming Sat. 1-31-04. He will be taken to Bloomington, IL. to see the remains of his Jawa. The bike has been in locked storage since the accident in Oct. We hope this won`t be to upsetting, as he remembers nothing about the accident.
He thanks everyone for their kind words and prayers.
Rick Martin <rsava@bwsys.net>
Pontiac, IL. U.S.A. - Monday, January 26, 2004 9:42 PM CST

I haven't met Vladimir personally, but his story is such an inspiration and I follow the journal entries. I've been a "weekend motorcyclist" for a few years, but haven't had time to ride of late. Vladimir's story reminds me that life is for the living and it touched me how far he has come to accomplish a dream of his. I thank God that he is still with us today and I wish him the best of luck and happiness as he prepares to continue his journey.
Rebecca Templeton
Mackinaw, IL USA - Wednesday, January 21, 2004 2:03 PM CST

I had a chance to visit Vladimir on Friday, January 16--and he was doing great!

I am a teacher at Peoria High School. In December I spent two weeks in Russia as part of an educator's study tour sponsored by the National Council on Economic Education. If you are interested, you can read my story at http://www.pjstar.com/news/neighbors/b1sdfa6s042.html

Anyway, I took my Russian pictures to share with Vlad. I thought he might enjoy seeing some pictures of home. Also took him some chocolate from Russia and a Peoria High School T-Shirt. Since he is staying in Peoria, he might as well be "rooting" for the number one basketball team in the state!

I'm fairly new to motorcycle riding--but I understand why you all love it so much. You can enjoy and observe nature when riding in a car--but riding on a bike makes you feel like you are actually a part of nature! And there is nothing to compare to that feeling of wind whipping through your hair! Can't wait til the weather warms up again!

My friend Dink runs a bike shop in Elizabethtown, KY. Stop by and see him when you are in that area. His email is TINPONYS@aol.com

Vladimir is one amazing guy! As he showed me all of his travel pictures, I could tell that he was anxious to get back on the road again! I wish him good health, good weather, and good roads. It's EZ to see that he already has many good friends!

Kathy Bellott <kbellott@yahoo.com>
Normal, IL USA - Tuesday, January 20, 2004 5:27 PM CST

Vladimir,
Just today found out you got hurt in Illinois. We will never forget you. You visited in Denver, CO and we all were amazed how you traveled with the JAWA, I wishing I was there to help you translate all the email and letters you get from all your friends from all over the world. Speedy Recovery and if there is anyway I can come and help out, I will be gladly to help you. You sat on 2003 HD softtail and have a great picture of all of us with the Deaf Bikers in Colorado saw you at Rocky Mountain Harley Davidson Feast Festival on September 6, 2003
Brenda Foster <Bess037@aol.com>
Golden, CO USA - Sunday, January 18, 2004 6:50 PM CST

yes the BIG BMW pizza party! wish I could be there to see the look on Vladimir's face! Please somebody be ready with a camera! A special moment for a special man!
Don Black
Sydney, NSW Australia - Friday, January 16, 2004 12:22 AM CST

I met Vladimir at Falling Leaf and appreciate the updates on his condition. Have fun at the pizza party tomorrow - I hope to be able to attend the next one!
Rebecca <rebeccav@earthlink.net>
Milwaukee, WI USA - Friday, January 16, 2004 9:34 AM CST

I am very glad to see that Jim Winterer and company are keeping up with what is going on with Vladimir. I will be seeing him tonight after work (1-14-04). I would like to extend my offer to help in any way I can. Since I am in the immediate area I hope to be of some use. I have an enclosed trailer. storage room, etc. I would vey much like to hep with any events that might be coming to help out Vlad.
Kelly Bumgarner <kellyb1@mchsi.com>
Elmwood, il usa - Wednesday, January 14, 2004 1:05 PM CST

I'm praying for you Vladimir
Jim Brown <sirroundalot@juno.com>
Oklahoma City, ok USA - Monday, January 12, 2004 8:51 PM CST

Hi.
I'm not yet a motorcyclist, but my hearts for it....
I must say, that i'm really impressed of that tough guy!
Dear brother, get on your feet and on your bike.

Yours sincerely, Mr. T. Jacobsen, Denmark.
Mr. Th�ger Jacobsen <nsufreaken@sol.dk>
Hiller�d, dk Denmark - Monday, January 5, 2004 9:56 AM CST

My name is Joe Clements. I am the director of Prince George, B.C., Canada H.O.G. Chapter #9134. Some of our members, including myself met Vladimir at the Thunder Run in Fort St. John, B.C. At that time he was on his way to Alaska. We have pictures of him, his maps and his journals, etc. He is able to read and write english very well. We spent quite awhile talking to him about his journey and one of our members used my cell phone to call people he had met earlier in his travels to let them know where he was and that he was okay. He left, saying he would try to make it back to Prince George for our Bug Run, but we never saw him again. We were wondering what became of him when someone happened to read the article about his unfortunate accident. Hope you heal soon and are able to resume your trip.
Joe Clements <bikerjoe@telus.net>
Prince George, B.C. Canada - Sunday, January 4, 2004 5:43 PM CST

Good to hear Vlad is mending faster than expected. I'm glad the fixator is gone, at least now the therapy can get serious! Ouch!
I was out riding my IMZ-Ural rig again this morning, out by Ottawa, Illinois. It is a fairly warm and cloudy New Year's Day. I almost turned to come down and see Vlad today, but understand it is a bit early for a kidnapping...
I'll be mounting my winter knobby tires this weekend, and will be ready for a little trip to Peoria when the patient is up and about. A little cold and snow is not a real problem for my 2WD Russian sidecar rig. We ain't sissies!
Have a happy New Year Vlad, and I'll watch this site and be down to get you out for a bit on a machine you will be familiar with when you are ready.
Hang in there brother.
Jay Gray <jaygray@comcast.net>
Shorewood, IL USA - Thursday, January 1, 2004 4:24 PM CST

Hooray! that is great news! Seasons Greetings and soon 2004, and then maybe back on the road Vladimir. (maybe even modern BMW style) that WILL be different to the old 2-stroke (no more mix!!!) If you come to Sydney, Australia I want you to stay in my house. I will feed you!
Don Black
Sydney, NSW Australia - Sunday, December 28, 2003 11:11 PM CST

What a shock I received yesterday on one of my visits to see Vladimir. Arrived at lunch time and *talked* with him while he finished eating. We then went outside, since it was sunny and in the 40`s. Upon returning to his room, he wanted to show me something. Since not much surprises me any more about this man, I could only stand in utter amazement as to what happened next. With no fanfare, he positioned his wheelchair next to the bed, STOOD UP, turned, and sat on the edge of the bed, and proceeded to swing both legs up onto the bed! He has accomplished this since I last saw him on the 24th. It is amazing (at least to me)how far he has come since I first saw him in the ICU at St. Francis a little over 10 weeks ago!
The big send-off party may be sooner then we all thought?

Rick Martin <rsava@bwsys.net>
Pontiac, IL. U.S.A. - Sunday, December 28, 2003 11:33 AM CST

I'm with shooters and scooters in OKC. Its nice to see he is going to recover. He came through here about a year ago. Spent the night with my brother.
Squeaky <Squeakyok@msn.com>
OKC, Ok US - Wednesday, December 24, 2003 11:22 PM CST

Hey Jay,

I'm guessing Vladimir would really like a ride in your Ural sidehack. I've just updated the Journal section of this Web site, so you can get some idea how he's coming along. I don't think the doctors would let him out for a ride just yet, however. Anyway, his new home is right on Highway 29 north of Peoria, and there some great motorcycle roads in the neighborhood.
Jim Winterer <jcwinterer@stthomas.edu>
St. Paul, MN USA - Tuesday, December 23, 2003 4:27 PM CST

Vlad, I'm glad to see you are progressing well! I thought of you this morning as I took my daily ride on my IMZ-Ural Patrol. I ride the green " combat hack " 2WD rig otherwise known as the dreaded Frog-of-War.... every day of year, around northern Illinois. Classic Russian iron is hard to beat, and gives me a place to mount my machine guns and shovels and such.
As soon as you are well enough, I hope to get down to Peoria and give you a ride in my sidecar, so you can get some fresh air for a change. You would feel very much at home in my hack made it Irbit.
I'll check the site in the near future and see how you are doing, and will hope to be able to give you a ride in the brisk January air! Heal fast, and have a good holiday. Merry Christmas Vlad!
Jay Gray <jaygray@comcast.net>
Shorewood, IL USA - Monday, December 22, 2003 3:01 PM CST

Hi everyone I just returned home from a great day with Vladimir. He is doing outrageous!!. As you know by now the fixator on his pelvis came off on Friday and wow we can harldly keep him in his wheelchair. Today Darvis his physical therapist showed him how to manuever his wheelchair up and down the hallway. By noon today he was up and down the halls so many times he was wearing caluses on his hand. This evening when I went to get him out of bed for supper he motioned for me to let him do it, so of course I did. Boy was I surprised!! Vladimir was able to sit up to the side of the bed by himself (with no help from me at all) then he moved himself into his wheelchair using a (slideboard) small board under his bottom. He only required a small amount of help to steady himself. He has really come a long way in a short period of time. Talk about determination.The doctor reports the most recent xrays of his pelvis show everything is healing just as it should be. He still will not be able to put any weight on his legs for a few more weeks, but that isn't stopping Vladimir. He will be going back to the nursing home tomorrow to finish healing. The next step will be a healed pelvis and strengthening his legs again so he can walk. This doesn't seem like a very long road to travel for a man as strong as Vladimir. He is an amazing man with a love for life. I have grown both as a nurse and a person since meeting such a special person. Thank you to everyone who has helped Vladimir so far through his injuries and hospital stay. We aren't through yet, but the determination that I seem in his eyes today tells me it won't be long before he's out traveling the world on his new motorcycle. I can only hope my phone number will be in his little red book and I will hear from him every once in a while to know what country he's exploring. Thanks to Tom, Rick,and Jim for all your help. You guys are truly special. Well I've rambled on enough, as you can probably tell Vladimirs excitement has rubbed off on me. Wow what a great day!!!
Melissa Derham <barkerd@insightbb.com>
Galesburg, IL - Tuesday, December 9, 2003 8:59 PM CST

i bumped into him last spring (april 2003)
dad and i are both deaf ourselves and just happened to bump into him at the local HD shop

http://www.cruisebikes.net/showthread.php?s=&threadid=3807
BABailey <MillenniumRebel@yahoo.com>
Indianapolis, IN USA - Tuesday, December 9, 2003 1:26 PM CST

It is great to hear about the new bike for Vladimir, it makes you feel really good to see how many people out there care. Also to have hundreds of people kick in money at at time of the year when we have so little extra is awsome.
Vic Simmons <vicspc@shaw.ca>
Strathmore, Ab Canada - Monday, December 8, 2003 1:48 PM CST

I met Vladimir this past summer in Alaska near Denali park, I was so impressed when he show me all the places that he has been. My partner and I both ridding vintage bikes (1942 Harley and 1940 Indian) felt like a pimple in this man rear end. Please give him help and support.
Milo Yglesias <milothegreat@aol.com >
Palatine, Ill USA - Tuesday, December 2, 2003 5:14 PM CST

Vladimir,
I wish you the best to recover from injuries. I would love to meet you sometime when you visit California, USA.
I am deaf motorcycist, too! I cannot image doing all rides over the world! Go for it and earn your place in the Book of Guinness!!!
William Raby <weraby@earthlink.net>
Stockton, CA USA - Monday, December 1, 2003 4:37 PM CST

Great to hear you are recoverring nicely. We are praying for you.
Prospect Mitch, Central Illinois Bond-Slaves MC <immrb@insightbb.com>
Normal, Illinois USA - Sunday, November 30, 2003 8:08 PM CST

Best wishes for a full recovery, my friend. Congrats of your accomplishments to date. I'd like to meet you on the road sometime!
Dan "Luger" Hagedorn <luger@tricountycruisers.org>
Richland, WA USA - Sunday, November 30, 2003 0:29 AM CST

Vladimir:
This 72-yr-old lady biker (ridin' 55 yrs.) wishes you a very speedy recovery and continued success on your trip!
Will be praying for you. Barb
B. J. Speckmann <dyna4ma@aol.com>
Lombard, IL USA - Saturday, November 29, 2003 8:02 PM CST

Vladimir, Brave man! I traveled many countries in the world and I met some deaf motorcyclists. Keep in postive and you can do success without fail. Do not let your pain interferes your goal. I went Russia twice. When you stop by Washington, DC, please contact me in the advance by email. I look forward to meeting you soon after your recovery. Keep in rolling toward to break the Guiness Book fo World Records! Eduardo
Eduardo Burkhart <vkyba@hotmail.com>
Arlington, VA USA - Saturday, November 29, 2003 7:12 PM CST

WE wish you a speedy complete recovery.WE will do something for you
Norbert and Albert Steneck
Elgin, il USA - Saturday, November 29, 2003 7:12 PM CST

Vladimir, best wishes to a speedy recovery. I know you will be back in the wind soon. I will be reprinting the Chicago Tribune article to pass around and put up at the house.
Jr American Lawmen M/C
Chicago, Il USA - Saturday, November 29, 2003 6:37 PM CST

Best wishes to Vladimir from Chicago. I'm going to reprint copies of the story and pass it around at the "Toy's for Tots" ride next week. Looks like we're going to have to find him a new scoot.
Fred Beyer <hdguy45@hotmail.com>
Orland Park, IL USA - Saturday, November 29, 2003 11:47 AM CST

Hello Everyone,
Well Vladmir made the front page of the Chicago Tribune, so I'm sure he'll being hear from a lot of people around Chicago. Wishing him a speedy recovery and many more miles.
Richard Livermore <CX650td@yahoo.com>
Munster, IN USA - Saturday, November 29, 2003 9:32 AM CST

Hello everybody!

Thank you for your words about my father and for everything you do. I would like to say special thank you to those who helped my Dad in his round-the-world travelling and continues helping now (Anastasia Kitsul (Puerto-Rico), Rik Martin (USA) etc. � I would, but physically cannot enumerate evry soul willing to help!)
Thank you all of you people of our planet Earth. As they say in Russia � I kowtow!
If you are willing to know more about Dad, please have a look at the following demo links:
http://www.yarets-father.da.ru
or
http://www.acv.by.com/yarets/index.html

You will find newspaper articles there (in Russian and English), family archive photos along with the ones that he sent to us from his trips.
If you find this interesting, I will try to update the info there and add new data, new photos and so on. Thank you all once again.

Yarets Vladimir Vladimirovich (Yarets Vladimir Alekseyevich�s elder son)

Vladimir <yarets@land.ru>
Minsk, Belarus - Thursday, November 27, 2003 5:46 AM CST

Bandido, Try the PayPal way to send funds. The "Caring Bridge" donation area is, I believe, for donations only to
maintain the Caring Bridge website.
Thanks for your Interest
Tom McIntyre <tamcintyre@yahoo.com>
Peoria, IL USA - Tuesday, November 25, 2003 9:02 PM CST

Hi,
I try to make a donation, but when I click the link on the http://www.caringbridge.org/il/vladimir/
I,m taken to http://www.caringbridge.org/donate/index.htm.
I then tried the "Donate Online" link.... dont find any reference to Vladimir...
Will pay with VISA..
Any assistance on how to proceed is very welcome.

Bandido Dizzie 1%'er <dizzie@bandidosmc.com>
Oslo, Norway - Tuesday, November 25, 2003 10:44 AM CST

Good luck Vladimir. Despite the immediate evidence - accident, hospital - I'm sure your luck is holding. It must be to have found such good support. The rest of the world awaits your visit.
Leslie Mapp
London, UK - Tuesday, November 18, 2003 8:20 AM CST

Neither seas nor hills nor man-made barriers can overcome the comaraderie amongst motorcyclists. Vladimir, we all hope and pray for your full recovery. It is not an easy road, but you have overcome so much all ready, this is nothing to you! God willing, you may finish your ride. God Bless You Man you are the righteous one amongst us. Specual! Very Specual! Please get well soon!
Don Black on behalf of CozzackPower
in aller Welt! - Tuesday, November 18, 2003 5:11 AM CST

Just returned from a visit with Vladimir. He appears to be doing much better. He was smiling a lot and was quite interested in explaining his trip around the world! I took him some black "Russian" bread. Someone had brought him a quart bottle of Kifir (sort of a drinkable yogurt) and he was pleased, indicating that it was very good for him! He has received numerous cards and visits. The nurses say that he has become extremely popular thereabouts. I'm sure none of them can really grasp the magnitude of his accomplishments. Yes, he is a legend in the motorcycling community. Please continue to support him in whatever way you can. The presence of riders visiting is good medicine for him. November 14, 2003
"Buck" Lemme <awwink@xel.net>
Effingham, Il USA - Friday, November 14, 2003 3:05 PM CST

Vladimir,is a very special person and all bikers should try and make a trip to see him.The bikers that are helping him are very special themselves.Stop by and take a look at his log book and be amazed at the countries he has travel through.You too will walk out shaking your he and saying WOW!!!!!!
Toney&Carol Buzick(GWRRA,Sr.Chapter Director--IL.Z) <tcbuzick68@gallatinriver.com>
Marquette Hieghts, IL USA - Monday, November 10, 2003 6:07 PM CST

WHAT AN INSPIRATION TO EVERYONE!! Not just the riders of the world! I was fascinated & deeply touched by his story, and the website that his son (I believe) has set up for him. A speedy recovery to you, and GET BACK ON THE ROAD SOON!
Lester Lightstone <videolester@shaw.ca>
Vancouver, BC Canada - Monday, November 10, 2003 11:11 AM CST

I'm Belorussian myself, my wife is an American. I came into this country just one year ago.
I found a message about Vladimir in Internet today with a link to this page.
God bless America for their kind people and their help to this Belorussian man.
Take care, Vladimir!

Dmitry
Washington, DC - Monday, November 10, 2003 10:22 AM CST

Best wishes and praying for a speedy recovery. May God Bless you. Keep the faith and he will see you through this tough time.
Brian Stading <bsmak1@hotmail.com>
Normal, IL United States - Monday, November 10, 2003 8:43 AM CST

The visit today went very well. I met Rick Martin,Kerry Willey,(hope i spelled that right)and Steve Queen.
What a great bunch of guys. We had a good time with Vladimir. He's feeling pretty good. When I arrived he was in the hall way in a wheel chair.
Melissa,( his St. Francis guardian angel) gave us a very detailed account of his condition. I can't begin to tell you how much she cares about Vladimir.
She is, by far and away the best nurse I have ever seen.

Some of you may already know of his(different)preferences, regarding his diet. When I motioned to him to eat all of his lunch so that he would become stronger, he signed back that he knew that already, and that he would.
The next time I visit I'll bring him the pickle juice he loves.
Tom Breedlove <thomaz900cc@yahoo.com>
Heyworth, il USA - Saturday, November 8, 2003 4:46 PM CST

Jim, thanks for the nice update. As we both know, Vladimir has a lot of new friends, and I hope they'll continue to be interested in his progress toward full
recovery. And Tom Breedlove, cookies are always a good way to introduce yourself, with or without translation. If you could see some of his full maps and pictures, you'd see he's already a motorcycling legend. Mac
Tom McIntyre <tmcintyre@week.com>
Peoria, IL USA - Wednesday, November 5, 2003 9:18 PM CST

Hey Deon,

Don't be surprised if Vladimir one day visits you in Pretoria. He points to a map on the wall of his hospital room that shows where he has been, and then he points to where he is heading.

After South American, and then New Zealand and Australia, he is heading for Southeast Asia and Africa. That would be you. When he's ready to hit the road, you should give him your address. It might take a couple of years, but I bet he'll show up some day.
Jim Winterer <jcwinterer@stthomas.edu>
St. Paul, MN USA - Tuesday, November 4, 2003 10:32 AM CST

I visited him today and he loved the translated message I took him. Here is the free site I used.
www.translate.ru/eng The site is also called Promt.
We had a great time, his pictures are astounding. When I (asked) him about a pic of him working on the bike,
he was able to comunicate with gestures exactly how he removed the top end, scraped the carbon from the pistons and cleaned the plugs.
Needless to say,,,,,,,, I was impressed!
This man is destined to be a Motorcycling Legend.
He also really liked the choclate chip cookies my wife made.
If you get the chance, please visit him.
Tom Breedlove <thomaz900cc@yahoo.com>
Heyworth, IL. USA - Sunday, November 2, 2003 6:55 PM CST

Hello everyone,
My name is Tom Breedlove. I became aware of Vladimir's situation only a few days ago. In that time there has been much talk of what to do.
I live 15 miles from the accident site and we are about an hours ride from St. Francis, where he is now. I have talked to the hospital and plan to talk to his social worker at the hospital on Monday the 3rd.
I will ride over to meet Vladimir in person tomarrow, rain or shine.
I will be representing the Sons of Thunder motorcycle ministery. We are willing to help on any level.
I will be in touch with any one and everyone who can help us help Vladimir.
Just so ya know.........We Ride,,,We Don't Preach.
Tom Breedlove <thomaz900cc@yahoo.com>
Heyworth, IL. USA - Saturday, November 1, 2003 6:43 PM CST

Some one I know, and who knows Jawas, said that, after studying the pictures, all is not lost. Because most of Vladimir's Jawa's damage seems to be back-end. The frames on these things are built like a tank, they are a traditional duplex and the engine is bolted solidly into it so they are really strong. After all, they are designed to carry a big 2-seater sidecar or be converted into a utility pickup trike. It may well be straight (enough).

While the rear is mangled, a fairly large portion of the rear sub-frame behind the shocks is bolted on as a seperate piece of curved tubing, everything forward of that is braced and gusseted to within an inch of it's life. It is possible that with a little heat and brute-force the swingarm could be straightened, the subframe re-newed (take an engineer about 1/2 hour to make one from steel offcut) and everything kicked into shape. Then you just need a wheel, front or rear, they are interchangeable and pretty universal back to the mid 70's.

He has crashed his Jawa quite HARD on two occasions and was amazed at how little structural damage was sustained - It went went end-over-end (about four times) down a 100 ft. ravine attached to a sidecar and the only thing he had to pay for was getting the forks rolled straight.

We are curious whether Vladimir's quest includes just making the trip, or whether it must be done on the same vehicle? Might be a good time to switch to a similar Japanese bike - it might be cheaper and it certainly would be easier.

Does anybody know?

Thanks!

stephen
Stephen Scott <CJE@snip.net>
Pitman, NJ USA - Saturday, November 1, 2003 10:22 AM CST

From the southern part of Africa, a lot of prayers and best wishes goes out to Vladimir. I'm sure that in this global village of ours, there are many wonderful people who wish they were closer to the hospital, and able to help in any small way. Please give him our best wishes and let him know that we would be honoured if he would visit one day.
Consider this a open invitation, should he ever come to South Africa.
Deon van Vuuren - Pretoria, South Africa <deonvv@metroweb.co.za>
Pretoria, South Africa - Saturday, November 1, 2003 5:20 AM CST

From what I can tell Vladimir enjoys the people he meets as much as the journey itself. to those who send cards add a picture of yourself if you wish as there is a nice photo wall started in his room add your name and location on the photo as well. Most of the photos from Vladimirs journey are marked on the front with a black sharpie. they really tell quite a tale. Along with his log book. Keep the cards comming, Some friends have found Russian translation on the web. I guess he understands it, at least he nods and smiles when he reads them. He seemed a bit off this morning. I believe just tired of sitting still and tired of people waiting on him. I didnt stay long today as time didnt allow. But did Talk with the nurse quite extensively
she is concerned that he be in very good health before departing as there are not charitie hospitals like the one he is in everywhere.Especially South of the US border. May be by the grace of God that he landed (literally by helicopter) @ St Francis. Thanks to all for any and all support, prayers and words of encouragement. you folks are awesome.

todd <tbros@ntslink.net>
- Friday, October 31, 2003 2:20 PM CST

I am interested in reading more about this Vladimir character. His travels seem intrigueing and I'd love to hear about his journeys.
gina woods <openroadradio@juno.com>
Chicago, IL. - Friday, October 31, 2003 7:34 AM CST

My Prayers are with Vlad,along with my dreams.I hope a very speedy recovery for him.Like many other motorcyclist I dream of doing what he is doing.My regards and respect.

Anthony A. Dilley <greenerpastures@grandecom.net>
Midland, Tx USA - Friday, October 31, 2003 6:06 AM CST

Vladimir seems to be doing better each day. he is restless though, and constantly streching and making throttle, clutch and brake motions with his hands. Yesterday I was fortunate enough to be able to take him for his maiden voyage in the rolling chair, yes he is once again mobile and believe me he had his parade wave going on. we did two hot laps around his wing of the hospitol and stopped to take in the river view for e few minutes. Im sure it is difficult for someone as free as him to be confined to such a small area. however he was very happy to be mobile, this I know. Today I understand he was taken outside for fresh air, Im not sure if he got to enjoy the cig hes been looking forward to or not as Missy wasnt there today. Thanks to Jim from Rockford, Kelly from Peoria, and Lena and friend from Russia via Peoria for stopping by.
Todd <tbros@ntslink.net>
- Thursday, October 30, 2003 8:34 PM CST

My prayers go out to Vladimir as he starts on his long road to recovery.
David W. Nelson <chfnelson@aol.com>
Bloomington, MN USA - Thursday, October 30, 2003 6:07 PM CST

just a quick note to let everyone know Vladimir is doing great today. His spirits are high and keeps insisting he is getting stronger so he can ride his motorcycle again. As always he continues to keep a huge grin on his face at all times. Also I wanted to let Sandi know Vladimir really enjoyed the cottage cheese,sour cream, and grape jelly you brought him. That made his morning!!!! Keep up the cards and visits they really make a difference. There have been a couple of different Russian translators and sign language translators that are making communication alot easier. Thanks to all of them for their time. Vladimir is a really special person with many stories to tell. More updates as things change.
another caring friend
knoxville, il - Wednesday, October 29, 2003 8:48 PM CST

My best wishes for your rapid and complete recovery. Your American friends of which you have many will help you thru this ordeal. We tend to stick together and help each other. You are one of us now. Best of luck on the remainder of your trip.
Elliott Green <ejgmailme@adelphia.net>
Delray Beach, FL USA - Wednesday, October 29, 2003 4:56 PM CST

We visited Vladimir last night. He seemed to be getting along fine - a bit restless though! We took him his favorite breakfast concoction, according to Jim, cottage cheese, sour cream, and jelly. I forgot the pickle juice (sorry Jim). He was so delighted to see us... and his "treat!" There were lots of cards and well wishers that had signed a board in his room. Rick and Kerry were there. Later, another gentleman came. He said that a couple from his church had told everyone about Vladimir and they had a group prayer. He was just stopping by to give some support. He was amazed at all of Vladimir's visitors. I'm not surprised at all. I've always known people are genuinely kind to genuinely kind people!
Sandi Gebhardt <sgebhardt@flypia.com>
Peoria, IL USA - Wednesday, October 29, 2003 1:23 PM CST

Vladimir- I am SO sorry that you had this terrible experience in our wonderful state of Illinois. I join all of our fellow bikers in wishing you a full recovery, the fulfillment of your dream to go around the world, and an accident free future! You carry a lot of our dreams and fantasies with you on your journey of goodwill and peace. You are an inspiration, especially to older riders like me (age 65) who believe that we do NOT stop riding because we get old, but instead, we get old if we stop riding! Ride safe!!
Bob Jacobs <jacobs@bradley.edu>
Dahinda, IL USA - Wednesday, October 29, 2003 12:29 AM CST

What an Inspiration!!! I hope you have a full recovery and fullfill your journey!!
Shawn Conaway <wildchildc1@aol.com>
East Peoria, IL USA - Tuesday, October 28, 2003 11:05 PM CST

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Stick <vasacheh@lycos.com>
- Tuesday, October 28, 2003 12:33 AM CST

I visited Vladamir this morning he seems in good spirits and was a pleasure to visit. I am in Peoria daily so if I can be of any assistance to any of the friends hes met along the way let me know
Todd Thompson <tbros@ntslink.net>
Manito, IL USA - Tuesday, October 28, 2003 12:28 AM CST

My wife & I were saddened by the news after not hearing from him for over 2 weeks. He'd call every other day & I would post his itinerary on the BB at HorizonsUnlimited. I wish I was closer so I could ride to see him but alas winter is bearing down & I'm unemployed. God Bless all of you brothers for helping him out. A guy with that much pluck has earned our eternal friendship
Brendan C. Murphy <bcmurphy@netzero.net>
Littleton, CO USA - Tuesday, October 28, 2003 11:47 AM CST

Get well soon Vladimir! I'll be watching for you on the road in a few months, don't ever quit ridding.
Brian Giller <bgiller@countryinvestment.com>
Hudson, IL McClean - Tuesday, October 28, 2003 11:23 AM CST

Vladimir, Good luck & SPEEDY RECOVERY!

Shad Cox <shadley@joink.com>
Bloomfield, IN US - Tuesday, October 28, 2003 10:16 AM CST

Hi folks,

I got an email about Vladimir from Dan C. Morris.

I visited him Sunday morning, and was able to communicate with him by writing questions/answers in Russian. He was better than I expected based on descriptions of his injuries. I explained where he was - apparently he didn't have any idea that he was in Peoria, IL. I let him know what date it was and how long, according to his nurses, he will be sidelined (8-12 weeeks). This was a source of great distress to him, and he started inquiring about the weather outside, thinking probably about his unfinished journey.

I called his family in Minsk, Belarus. His son was not at home, but I passed on a message from Vladimir.

While I was at the hospital, another gentleman from Effingham (???), IL, came over for a visit. He rode 3 hours on a cold morning to visit Vladimir, whom he'd never met before. I think Vladimir was very touched. He scribbled a few phrases about how good and caring Americans are. He also wrote that he has kind nurses.

The nurses at the hospital were using some flash cards - English phrases on one side, Russian translations on the other side. These cards turned out to be a source of amusement to me because of the crude and literal translation. The phrase 'Do you want to eat?' was translated into something like 'Someone wants to eat you'. I fixed the cards - hopefully this will improve communication between the nurses and Vladimir.

Take care,
Yelena
Peoria, IL - Tuesday, October 28, 2003 9:09 AM CST

I was one of the responding Firefighters to Vladimir's accident. We are glad to hear that he is recovering. He was a very lucky fellow if it had not been for the coolers he was carrying on his bike it could have been much worse.God Bless God Speed
Perry E. Mayer <pe.mayer@verizon .net>
Le Roy, IL Mc Lean - Tuesday, October 28, 2003 8:59 AM CST

I hope Vladimir knows he has so many friends all over the world. We met Vladimir coming home from a beautiful weekend at a B&B in southern Illinois, Oct 13. We passed him on the road, on our bike. You certainly couldn't help but notice him and his bike! We ended up stopping at the next gas station and who pulls up behind us...Vladimir! I couldn't resist reading all of his stickers from everywhere in the world. So many places I couldn't even begin to pronounce! We ended up "talking" with him for awhile. Took some pictures and "chatted" about kids and his trip. All the way home I kept asking questions about how this man could possibly travel this amazing journey! Before we met Vladimir, I thought nothing could top the wonderful weekend we had but, that journey home, meeting Vladimir, was truly a life experience! I even gave him some of my chocolate from The Chocolate Factory! That says it all coming from a chocoholic! We'll be going to visit Vladimir this evening. We'll report back later.
Sandi Gebhardt & Bruce Pearce <sgebhardt@flypia.com>
Peoria, IL 61607 - Tuesday, October 28, 2003 8:58 AM CST

I RODE TO SEE VLADIMIR MONDAY. HE LOOKED TO BE DOING WELL AND IN GOOD SPIRITS. VLAD HAS STAYED WITH ME IN ST. LOUIS 3 TIMES SINCE WE MET IN MARCH. THERE IS NOTHING LIKE HAVING "DINER CONVERSATION" WITH HIM. IT IS QUITE THE EXPIRIECE FOR MY WIFE, KIDS, AND MYSELF.
BOB HONZ <rlhonz@wmconnect.com>
ST .LOUIS, MO USA - Tuesday, October 28, 2003 1:10 AM CST

Privet, Vladimir! Menja zovut Boris. Ja iz Seattle. U menja est' dostatochno populjarnyj russkojazychnyj forum na mojom sajte - privet.com. Neskol'ko dnej nazad u nas pojavilas' informacija o Vashem sluchae. Ot imeni uchastnikov foruma my hoteli by peredat' Vam nemnogo deneg. Kak eto mozhno sdelat'? Ja chital pro Vsh schet u Paypal, no poka ne nashel ego. Vyzdoravlivayte skorey. Zhmu Vashu ruku. Dast bog, vstretimsja. Budete v Stattle - ne zabyvajte, Vy priglasheny v nash dom.

Boris Zverev 5418 157th DR NE <boris@privet.com tel (425) 497-9214>
Redmond 98052, WA USA - Monday, October 27, 2003 10:21 PM CST

I took a little ride from Chicago to see Vladimir on Saturday Oct 25. I brought with me pictures that I took during my 2003 IBR; at the end I had pictures of Vladimir's bike. He remembered me and had a great big grin when he saw the pictures of Jim. Soon after he went to sleep. He described the accident via signs. It's a good thing he use to start each morning with a vigous hour of exercise. I remember him doing handstands in our hotel room out in Missoula; crazy nut I tell ya. But at 62 this man was is very good shape. Probably one of the reasons why he faired as well as he did in the accident. After wakening he seemed restless, like he wanted to get up and go about his day, but with pins in your hip it makes that a little difficult; or maybe he had to use the bed pan. In either case the upcoming weeks will be no less then difficult for a man that's been use to traveling and moving almost everyday. I wish him the best of luck and look forward to making some more visits.
Mark Kiecker <markk@nsfire.com>
Chicago, IL - Monday, October 27, 2003 10:07 AM CST

Here's a note about some visitors to Vladimir over the weekend and a link to some great photographs of him, and his motorcycle.

Here's a link and photos of vladimir from our group. some really great
advriders were at the hospital to see him.
regards,
barry
nycblueknight on advrider

http://www.advrider.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=27552
Jim Winterer <jcwinterer@stthomas.edu>
St. Paul, MN USA - Monday, October 27, 2003 8:22 AM CST

Dear Vladimir, I am the native Belarussian too. We met once back in Minsk in 1998. I am just wishing you to get well soon.
Marina Santsevich <mr02@tut.by>
Hackettstown, NJ USA - Monday, October 27, 2003 7:50 AM CST

I just returned from a ride to see Vladimir. He appears to be doing well. He had them remove the soft cast from his arm today and is able to gently use it. He has some discomfort where the surgeons pinned his pelvis together. A lady was there this morning who writes Russian and was a great help to him. I believe she is employeed by Caterpillar and heard of his plight and volunteered to help out as time permits.

He is a remarkable man with a strong spirit and determination which will see him through. Help in whatever way you can. I know he will appreciate it!

"Buck" Lemme
Effingham, Il. USA - Sunday, October 26, 2003 6:04 PM CST

Havent met you but read your story in Horizons Unlimited. You people people let me know i can be of any help. Paypal , donation or something else.

Best wishes.
Kemal Altay <kaltay@tr.net>
Turkey - Sunday, October 26, 2003 10:59 AM CST

Hi Vladimir,

I met you at Missoula, Montana at the end of the 2003 Iron Butt Rally. We "talked" a bit about riding in Alaska by pointing at your stickers on your bike. I too had just come back from Alaska the year before. We compared info about the animals we had seen there. The one we both remembered well were the Bears . It was funny to think back on but I really enjoyed our short discussion.

You're a remarkable fellow and I wish you a swift recovery so that you can continue your quest.

Best regards,

Joe Zulaski
Joe Zulaski <josephz@microsoft.com>
Woodinville, WA United States - Sunday, October 26, 2003 7:12 AM CST

After reading the original story of your travels, I felt as I knew you as a friend. Thanks for sharing your life-story with us. My respect is yours. My prayers are with you for a speedy and full recovery.
Les mizell
Leslie Mizell <mizell@swbell.net>
Cleveland, Tx USA - Saturday, October 25, 2003 5:38 PM CDT

It was great to meet you out in Montana, get well soon Vladimir!
Critter
Burnsville, MN USA - Saturday, October 25, 2003 3:56 PM CDT

Met ya at the fallin leaf
You da man
Wish ya a SPEEDY RECOVERY
gabe
gabe <gonzasolis@sbcglobal.net>
melrose park, il usa - Friday, October 24, 2003 9:36 PM CDT

This guy is great, we need to continue the support for him. Someone should set up a non-profit charity for the medical expense, allowing donations to be tax deductable, then the money would roll in, I for one would donate some K

Devir
David Devir <stdd@earthlink.net>
Milpitas, ca USA - Friday, October 24, 2003 5:49 PM CDT

I read about his mishap at BayAreaRidersForum.com on 10/23. I'm currently posting info to a several russian immigrant forums. Apparently, Vladimir doesn't read/write in english, may be somebody nearby can help with that.
I wish him to get well soon.
Alexandre Orlov
CA USA - Friday, October 24, 2003 1:06 PM CDT

I first meet Vladimir in Missoula, MT. at the end of the IBR. He had all his maps and pictures laid out to show everyone of his endeavor. Even tho being a deaf/mute and unable to understand English, he seemed somehow to understand your questions.
I first heard of his misfortune on 10/21/03. Since that time the motorcycling community has stepped forward with much needed support for this fine man.
Please take the time to send cards and stop by if you are nearby as he really enjoys company. Be sure to sign his visitors book in the room. You don`t have to be a motorcyclist to help out.
Rick Matin
Pontiac, IL U.S.A. - Thursday, October 23, 2003 9:10 PM CDT

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