Other Side of Healthcare Board Member: Motorcycle Road Warrior

Michael Emerson of La Mesa is best known publicly for his membership on the Grossmont Healthcare District Board of Directors. He was appointed to the seat in May 2008 and won a four-year term that November.

But his other favorite seat is a bit more risk-filled—on his motorcycle.

It’s a less-public passion: He’s been a driver since 13. Yes, that’s before the legal age anywhere you go. But rebellion knows no bounds.

“My older brother got drafted to Vietnam, and as he was driving away he yelled out the window: ‘Don’t touch my motorcycle!’ ” said Emerson, owner of . “As soon as he went around the corner, I stole it. I’ve been riding ever since.”

Emerson has since moved up from the purple-colored Triumph 500 Trophy to his very own vintage Suzuki Cavalcade. For the past three summers, he’s jetted off to Yellowstone—a 1,100-mile trip one way.

“Mine’s in mint condition,” he said. “I do all my own maintenance—with help from the Internet, of course.”

Emerson used to ride with a group of businessmen including Mark Olsen of , but says his fellow riders are selling their bikes and moving on.

“I’m the last Mohican,” he said. “I’m the youngest at 59.”