SEE Back Cover for Details

SEE Back Cover For Details

Mid-Atlantic Thunder Roads

OWNER / EDITOR 1920 Centerville Turnpike, Suite 117-270 SALES: Virginia Beach, VA 23464 Office phone: (757) 831-2264 Kelly Werrell Email:[email protected] Website: www.thunderroads-virginia.com

Thunder Roads Crew

SALES CREW ROAD CREW For information about advertising in Thunder Roads visit the Advertising page of our website Webmaster www.thunderroads-virginia.com or contact Beth William C. Frohmiller Albert, Sales/Assistant Editor at (804) 536-1299, www.WCFStudios.com [email protected] Layout & Design Warren Ells – Art Director Thunder Pub Covering the Mid-Atlantic region, primarily the Rod the Magificent – Ad Design states of Virginia, DC & Maryland On Eagles Wings Beth Albert (804) 536-1299 Reverend Rock [email protected] Preacher Rick Pastor Tammy Hayes William Day “Wild Bill” (804) 814-8498 [email protected] Sound Check Cathy & Chris Laurie Schober William C. Frohmiller (757) 416-2410 www.WCFStudios.com Tech Tips [email protected] Aaron Johnson [email protected] Kelly Werrell (757) 831-2264 [email protected] Writers/Photographers Beth Albert Bo Albert Cathy Clare (BZgal) Special Thanks to: Warren Ells - our wonderfully Chris Rockhill (Tigger) talented layout guy who designs our pages & Cindy Mease puts all the pieces together for us each month, Rod The Magnificent - for his killer ad designs Dave Sutton & Bill of WCFStudios.com, our webmaster, who Kelly Werrell keeps our site rockin’ on the web. Also many Tim Wilmoth thanks to all of our readers, advertisers & those Ricky Derby of you out there that spread the word or pass Wild Bill a magazine to a friend who’s never heard of us William Frohmiller before - You ALL are what keeps the Thunder rolling through the Mid-Atlantic! * All articles & pictures within Thunder Roads are contributed by our Crew or by freelance writers & photographers. CONTENTS LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Hey folks! Have you been dealing with a bad case of Spring fever??? So have we & we’re soooo ready to get out there & have some fun on our bikes! There will be plenty to be had from what we have seen so far going into our calendar & the events keep coming Calendar Of Events...... 4 in too. It’s going to be an incredible riding season for the all bikers & motorcycle people throughout our region this year with non-stop events & rides for everyone…get your motors runnin’! Proud To Be An American...... 8 Many of our Biker Friendly businesses out there unfortunately have been faced with having to close their doors (for good) & after talking with a few of them, I’ve learned something very interesting, Hot Shots...... 12 but also pretty sad. When I asked if they could pin point exactly what happened to get things to the point of having to throw in the towel, they told me that it really wasn’t all about the economy as KISS...... 15 most people would think. As soon as their signs went up for the “Going Out of Business” sales, people started flocking in to spend their money. Many of the people had shopped these places before, Clubs & Organizations...... 23 periodically & were shocked when they’d heard the news about them closing up. Sympathetically, many customers told the owners, The Joker’s Wild...... 28 “We thought you’d always be here.” That’s the key phrase right there…isn’t it funny how we take things for granted sometimes? Businesses rely on their customers, especially the “regulars”, to Biker Friendly Directory...... 32 keep the lights on & business running as usual. Without them, the inevitable happens, as they slowly go under & have no choice but to close up. Our advertisers & Biker Friendly people are here with NCOM News Bytes...... 36 us, not only to help us keep our magazine out on the road, but most of all, they are here for YOU. They open their doors, many working long hard hours, using their life savings to keep things going, to On Eagle’s Wings...... 39 serve us, the motorcycle community. Even if you stop in a place once a month & spend $5, every little bit helps. We go on rides for charity events & spend at least $20 a pop to help their cause. Let’s not forget about the businesses out there who need your support NOW… not after it’s too late – that’s the only way that they will NATIONAL FOUNDERS ALWAYS be there. Toni McCoy Shearon & Brian Shearon Ok friends, enjoy all your days during this beautiful month of 1421 Chapmansboro Road March. It’s always a good day when you get out for a ride so try to Chapmansboro, TN 37035 do it every chance you get. Here’s wishing you all much love in Corporate Office: 615-792-0040 your hearts, peace in your lives & a whole lotta wind in your face. Fax: 615-792-7580 e-mail: [email protected] Until we see you again next month…

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NO PART OF ITS CONTENT MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT Happy Trails…. WRITTEN PERMISSION. PUBLISHER ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY AND IS NOT TO BE HELD LIABLE FOR ERRORS BEYOND THE COST OF THE SPACE OCCUPIED BY THE ER- ROR, SLANDER OF ANY GROUP OR INDIVIDUAL, FAILURE TO PRODUCE ANY ISSUE AS SCHEDULED DUE TO REASONS BEYOND OUR CONTROL, ANY AND ALL SUITS FOR LI- ABLE, PLAGIARISM, COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT AND UNAUTHORIZED USE OF A PER- SON’S NAME OR PHOTOGRAPH. OPINIONS AND CLAIMS MADE BY ADVERTISERS AND Kelly AUTHORS ARE THEIR OWN, AND DO NOT NECESSARILY REPRESENT THE POLICY OF THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE OR THUNDER PUBLISHING. PUBLISHER DOES NOT PRO- MOTE THE ABUSE OF ALCOHOL OR OTHER DRUGS.

Helmet Laws By State

Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind. List your event free @ www.thunderroads-virginia.com

Did you know that you can post your event FREE? Just Apr 11th Big Daddy’z Cycles Grand Opening Celebration – Warfare Foundation. The Foundation supports the families go to our website, www.thunderroads-virginia.com & Gloucester, VA Big Daddy’z Cycles in Hayes (Gloucester, VA) of Navy SEALS and support staff that are killed or wounded. enter your event information directly into the calendar. If will have it’s Grand Opening Celebration on Saturday Apr 11th, Navy SEALS are beyond the front lines serving around the you post your event online by the 15th of the month, it will 2009! The address is: 2810 Geo. Wash. Mem. Hwy. Hayes. world in battling terrorism. Please come out and help support appear in the following month’s print issue. It’s never too We will open our doors at 10:00 am with many specials and our cause. This is a TAMA supported ride. Contact info 757- early to list your event so as soon as you have all of your discounts for our customers who come to celebrate with us. 318-3764 info…send it on! We will have food available for lunch and beverages! Free Apr 18th US Military Vets MC Northeast MD, Bull Roads & beer will be available for a limited time! Music, Giveaways, and MARCH 2009 Shrimp Feast – Rosedale, MD http://s138.photobucket.com/ a bike show. We have many festivities planned! So come on albums/q271/dawnrakowski/?action=view¤t=bullroast.jpg Feb 27th – Mar 8th Daytona Bike Week – Daytona Beach, FL by and check us out! We have many festivities planned! So www.daytonabikeweek.com (Since 1937) come on by and check us out! Rain date will be Saturday Apr Apr 19th Trivial Pursuit Ride – Northern VA Trivial Pursuit 18th, 2009 Fund Raiser Ride sponsored by East Coast Virginia Harley Mar 8th Daylight Savings Time Begins – Spring Forward! Owners Group. The ride raises money for the Boys & Girls Set your clocks ahead 1 hour Apr 11th Chili Cook-Off / Poker Run / Swap Meet – Club and is used to sponsor memberships for children unable Staunton, VA Shenandoah Valley H.O.G presents annual Chili March 17th Happy St. Patty’s Day! to afford memberships. The ride is scheduled for Sunday, 19 Cook-Off, chili available @ 11am $5 gets you unlimited chili & April 2009. Registration 8:00-10:00, with first bike out at 9:00. Mar 20th 1st Day of Spring bread (while it lasts) & 1 drink (more available). There will be a Ride is 83 miles through scenic northern Virginia. Contact point poker run afterwards (small fee) & weather permitting. H.O.G. Mar 21st – 22nd Bikes & Ink 2009 – Richmond, VA Cycle is Jim: [email protected] Hotline 540-946-9992 www.shenandoahhog.com and sell your Promotions USA comes to The Show Place with a great family unwanted parts all day 9am - 5 pm (small space fee) tables Apr 19th Dirt Drags @ Slade’s Park - Surry, VA Gates open 9 friendly event, featuring a Motorcycle Show from custom available for rent contact Andrea 540-213-7433 a.m. Admission $15, kids under 10 not racing are FREE. Free manufacturers, great paint schemes and proud owners of vendor setup - please call 1st. Trophies & Cash-All Classes. their “ride.” We are excited to announce another great year of th Apr 12 Happy Easter! April 16th – 19th 4th Annual Angel Top Fuel at it’s Best-Pro Gas/Dirt Bikes. No Colors - No Glass incredible bike show builders including ‘Super Builders’ Brad City Spring Rally and Thunder Roads Big 10 Bash Angel - No Dogs!!! For info call Joe Brookman (804)221-3959. Rain Ruel, Craig Whitford, Knievel Custom Choppers, and East Side City Rally will be holding the 4th Annual Spring Rally on April date April 26th. Custom Choppers, just to name a few! We encourage you 16th- 19th, 2009. RV reservations and e-tickets are available rd th to come out and see some of the industry’s leading vendors now. Don’t wait until it’s too late! These sites are filling up Apr 23 – 26 7th Annual Outer Banks Bike Week™ – Outer with an excellent selection of motorcycle attire, motorcycle quickly. There are no refunds on sites and cancellations are Banks, NC North Carolina's Largest Motorcycle Rally. Great theme jewelry and motorcycle parts and accessories. While rare so don’t miss your chance to reserve an RV site today! Riding-80 miles of Beaches-Lighthouses-Pirate lore. Bike attending, you are invited to enjoy great entertainment such Also, Thunder Roads Magazine will be holding their 10 year Shows, Poker Run, Treasure Hunt, Guided Tours, Vendors, as, music There’s the People’s Choice Tattoo Contest, and anniversary party at Angel City during the rally. This publication Bikini &Tattoo Contests. Chance to WIN $2000 Shopping vendor supported fashion shows with professional models is seen and distributed in 20 states and is sure to bring in the Spree! www.OuterBanksBikeWeek.com, 757 397-5550 and, after last years fun and successful launch, our very own people by the masses! Angel City is very excited at all of the Apr 24th – 26th Barry’s Bike Rally – Grandy, NC Vendors, Ms. CyclePro USA Contest! We look forward to seeing you opportunities that the New Year is bringing forth. Thunder Bands, Great Food, Cold Beer, Bike Games. Rally benefits and your family at our show! This is definitely a show that Roads will be onboard with us during the 4th Annual Spring the Navy Seals and Victory Junction Gang Camp. Your can’t be missed! March 21st 11am-6pm; March 22nd 10am- Rally which is sure to make our event an even larger success. support will help our military families and also help critically 5pm. Admission: Adult Ticket: $15.00. The Show Place, 3000 We are working together to bring everyone a rally like no other. ill children. We appreciate your continued help and support Mechanicsville Pike, Richmond, VA 23223, 804-225-8877. For Entertainment for the rally will include but is not limited to: for this great event - This is our 9th year! FREE vendor space more info call Cycle Promotions USA at (386) 252-3101 or visit The Wall, Big Engine, 2 Finger Jester, Joe Santana and The for the Bike Rally (We are asking that vendors make a tax www.cycleprousa.com. Other Band, Fairweather Pilot, and The Todd Williams Band. deductible donation to the Naval Special Warfare Foundation) Bike games and bike shows will take place during the event For availability call 252-453-2261 (Restaurant) or Email: Mar 29th Gettysburg Bike Show and Expo – Gettysburg, and some new surprises are in store. Make your reservations [email protected]. Event location: Barry’s Walnut PA Second annual event - we are back - bigger and better today! Visit www.angelcityrally.com or call 1-800-433-7191 Island Restaurant, 169 Walnut Island Blvd., Grandy, NC - new vendors, more bikes and special appearance by Michele Apr 17th – 19th Bikers for Tykes & Troops – Virginia Beach 27939. Lodging accommodations visit www.walnutisland.com. Smith of Speed Channel’s American Thunder. Check out our , VA This is a three day event at KOA Kampground ( 1240 Camping is available – email [email protected]. website - www.gettysburgbikeshow.com for information! General Booth Blvd. Virginia Beach , VA 23454 ) There will be For more info visit www.barrysbikerally.com local bands playing throughout the weekend and a national Apr 25th 5th Annual Cpl. Jonathan W. Bowling Memorial APRIL act on Saturday night. Discounted tickets can be bought Bike Ride & Bike Display Show - Stuart, VA Coordinated by ahead of time at Ticketmaster (available soon). There will be Apr 5th 3rd Annual Benefit Ride – Virginia Beach, VAPolice the Red Knights, Chap. 11. Saturday, April 25, 2009 at Patrick a Best Bike contest, Best Tattoo contest, the stunt rider Kane escorted ride from the 15th Street Raw Bar & Grill at the Ocean County High School, Stuart, VA. Award given for furthest “Insane” Friesen, merchandise vendors and much, much front to Knuckleheads Roadhouse. Post ride festivities include traveled bike and display plaques for the first 150 entrants. more. All proceeds will benefit the Children’s Hospital of The Live Music by “CRUNCH”, Live auction, food, drink and fun! For Bike Display Show Awards: 1st & 2nd place trophies for the King ’s Daughters and the USO of Hampton Roads. Visit more information contact Mike Aselin at: [email protected]. following classes: People’s Choice: Cruiser and streetbikes. bikersfortykesandtroops.org for more information. The event 9:00am-7:00pm The schedule for the bike ride and display bike show is starts at 4pm on Friday and ends at 3pm on Sunday. as follows: Bike Show Registration: 8 a.m.-10 a.m.; Bike Apr 5th 2009 Virginia Bike Fest – Petersburg, VA Apr 18th Frogs for Freedom Poker Run – Virginia Beach, VA Display Show: 9 a.m.-noon; Bike Ride Registration 9 a.m.-1 www.virginiamotorsportspk.com The ride will start at Papa’s Pub on Shore Drive and Diamond p.m.; Bike Ride begins at 1:30 p.m. Please see following Apr 11th Spring Open House & Fashion Show – Springs Road, first bike out at 10 AM.. $20 per bike, $20 per webpage for more information. http://www.myspace.com/ Hughesville, MD Free Food while supplies last, entertainment, extra rider. All riders and passengers receive a free t-shirt and cpljonwbowlingmemorial. Cpl. Bowling’s biography is found on sales and a fashion show at All American Harley-Davidson in game card. At the conclusion of the ride there will be prizes the main page and event information is found in blog section; Hughesville, MD, www.hdwash.com, phone 301-248-1200. for best and worst hand, largest group door prizes, 50/50 registration forms are photos in the photos link. 10am to 4pm. and an auction. This ride is sponsored by the Naval Special Apr 25th Clean Machine Seminar – Ocean City, MD Enjoy

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE List your event free @ www.thunderroads-virginia.com

insider information from the Harley-Davidson of Ocean City virginiamotorsports.com spend the weekend riding, relaxing and enjoying great music, food, Staff as well as outside experts in how to get your machine vendors and games. Rockahock is excited to welcome back one of May 17th Dirt Drags @ Slades Park - Surry, VA Gates open 9 clean. Tips on products, techniques and other key information. 2008’s favorite performers Damon Smith www.damonsmithmusic. a.m. Admission $15, kids under 10 not racing are FREE. Free Free seminar starts at 1 p.m. 410-629-1599 com. This year’s lineup features up and coming Nashville talent vendor setup - please call 1st. Trophies & Cash-All Classes. KingBilly www.KingBilly.com, North Carolina rockers TOYZ www. MAY Top Fuel at it’s Best-Pro Gas/Dirt Bikes. No Colors - No Glass toyzband.com and one of America’s premiere southern rock bands, May 2nd Freedom Ride for Dystonia (Poker Run/Event) - No Dogs!!! For info call Joe Brookman (804)221-3959. Rain Blackberry Smoke www.blackberrysmoke.com. Over the last 12 - Laurel, MD The poker run will start and end at Old Glory date May 24th. months Blackberry Smoke has shared the stage with ZZ Top, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Shooter Jennings, Cross Canadian Ragweed and Harley-Davidson, 11800 Laurel Bowie Road, Laurel MD 20708. May 16th Armed Forces Day countless others. The band has recently finished recording their Ride registration will open at 9:30 a.m. and cost $30. The last May 17th Spring Car & Bike Show – Portsmouth, VA Food, sophomore effort “Little Piece Of Dixie” to be released in early 2009. bike must be back by 2 p.m. to qualify for the $250 grand prize Music, All Models Welcome. Bayside Harley-Davidson. Local favorite The Ray Pittman Project and many more will keep the for the best poker hand. An event will be held after the ride, Portsmouth, VA. www.baysidehd.com 757 397-5550 party going all weekend. Stay tuned!!!!! Full entertainment schedule featuring food, a live band, vendors, door prizes and a raffle. The coming soon. Tons of Bike Games throughout the weekend. Come first 100 ride registrants get a free T-shirt, and ride registration May 23rd – 24th Rolling Thunder XXII Reunion Spot try your luck at some of the crowd favorites including HONEY I’M includes admission to the event. Admission to the event without – Hughesville, MD Stop by Harley-Davidson of Washington, HOME, SLOW RACE, BALLOON TOSS & IN THE WIND RELAY!!!! the ride will cost $20. All proceeds go to the Dystonia Medical DC for free food (while supplies last), vendors, Official Rolling Bike Show – Saturday June 6, 2009 TIME-TBD ***REGISTRATION Research Foundation - http://www.dystonia-foundation.org/ Thunder XXII T-shirts, pins and patches, Harley-Davidson ON-SITE*** Ticket Prices: Friday Only - $15.00. Saturday Only - a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to supporting research and Rolling Thunder Officials on site and great entertainment - $20.00. Weekend - $30.00. Full hook-up RV sites, primitive RV on and people afflicted with dystonia, a rare, but disabling, from 10 am to 4 pm. 9407 Livingston Rd. Ft Washington, MD sites, tent camping, and Yurt & Cottage rentals available. Call movement disorder. Watch brief video at http://www.youtube. 20744, www.hdwash.com, phone 301-248-1200.10am to 4pm today to make your reservation!!!! For more information visit www. com/watch?v=XP-pTIiGOHM to see how Dystonia can affect rockahock.com or call us at 804-966-8362. May 24th American Pride Yellow Ribbon Ride. Free coffee people. For more information, please contact Debbi Mack, and donuts available before the Police Escorted Ride leaves at Jun 6th SISTERS of CHROME WMC Maryland Trauma Teddy 301-725-1335, [email protected] or check the Web site at 9 am en route to the Pentagon Parking lot. Bear Run – Baltimore, MD (Must -pre-register ) @The Harley http://freedomride4dystonia.wordpress.com/. Davidson Store 8845 Pulaski Hwy, Baltimore , Md 21237. Time: May 24th Rolling Thunder - Pentagon Parking Lot, Arlington May 3rd Poker Run Salty Dawgs Riding Club – Virginia 10:30 a.m.- 11: 30am Bikes leave out @ 12:00 noon$5.00 VA. Beach, VA The Salty Dawgs Motorcycle Riding Club is having Donation & A New Teddy Bear Per Person( Includes admission to there 3rd annual poker run all proceeds benefiting the Fisher May 24th Rolling Thunder XXII – Washington, DC party)PARTY:@ Long Beach Restaurant & Tavern 818 Bowley's House. Registration is from 9am to 11:00 Start point will be www.rollingthundermotorcyclerally.com (Since 1987) Quarters Rd., Middle River, MD, 21220 Admission: $5.00 donation determined Va Beach, VA. For more information contact Brian & A New Teddy Bear per person. The purpose of this run is to May 25th Memorial Day at (757)473-9385 or Pat(757)548-8462 Assist children who have been through a traumatic event such as May 30th Kidz 2 Kamp (K2K) 2009 – Virginia Beach, VA an accident, domestic violence/abuse, fire, etc. Trauma Bears are May 3rd 2009 Relay for Life HOPE Ride – Poquoson, proven to be therapeutic tools. The Bears collected will be given Second annual Kidz 2 Kamp is an event to raise funds for VA Team Etching Out A Cure & the B.U.B.B.A. Riding Club to Police, Paramedics, Fire Departments and Shock Trauma Units “Central Virginia Burn Camp”, “Camp Hope Haven”, and proudly host the 2nd Annual Hope Ride, Sunday – May 3, to carry in their emergency vehicles to give to children when they “Capture the Dream Summer Camp.” The event will start 2009. Poquoson City Pool Parking Lot, 16 Municipal Drive, arrive at the scene to help comfort them.*Vendors *Bands * Raffles and end at Bubba’s Deli and BBQ in Virginia Beach, VA. Poquoson, VA 23662. Registration opens at 10:00AM. Ride * Auction * Much More Donations Are Being Accepted. Email: Registration will start at 0900. For more information contact leaves at 1:00PM. There is a $10.00 donation per rider & [email protected]. Website: www.sistersofchromemc.com Vincent (757)810-5865 $5.00 for passengers. All proceeds will benefit the American Jun 12th – 14th 4th Annual Iron Titans Rally/Swap Meet Gates Cancer Society Relay for Life Program. The ride will consist May 31st Summer Splash Poker Run – Ocean City, MD The open Friday June 12th at 4:00pm in Tazewell County,Va. at The of a 65-mile long ride through the beautiful Colonial Parkway Summer Splash Poker Run, presented by the Eastern Shore Tazewell County Fair Grounds. Refer to web-site for directions. in Historic Yorktown to the Jamestown Settlement Visitors HOG Chapter, begins at Harley-Davidson of Ocean City, Md. www.irontitans.com. A.T.V Rodeo, Ms. Iron Titans Pageant Bike Center. This will be a police-escorted ride! The ride will end The ride covers the unique scenic country side of Delmarva Games, Bike Show, Car/Truck Show, Food, Beverages, Vendors, back at the Poquoson City Pool Parking Lot where there will and features escorted rides as well. There will be Door Tattoo’s, Music, Kids Bicycle Rodeo, Poker Run. Saturday June be food and drinks, as well as Music, Raffle for prizes, 50/50 Prizes, a 50/50 drawing, limited free pins, food available. Visit 13th gates open at 10:00am and Open Sunday June 14th at drawing and much more…ALL ARE WELCOME!!! T-shirts easternshorehog.com for details 9:00am. $10.00 for Friday or Saturday, $15.00 for Whole Weekend. for the event will be on sale! For information, please contact Proceeds go to help The Shriner’s Hospital in S.C. May 31st New Community Church Biker Sunday - Elizabeth Larry Wainwright at (757) 714-8827 or e-mail islanderscents@ City, NC New Community Church, 100 Kathryn Court. 11:00 Jun 13th Ride for The Children – Portsmouth, VA American cox.net or Mark Boesen at (757) 570-2209 or e-mail a.m. New Community Church First Annual Biker Sunday. Live Cruisers dice run for The Edmarc Hospice for Children. 50/50 raffle, [email protected]. Music, Lunch, Door Prizes, Bike/Biker Blessing, Bike Show/ door prizes, prizes for high score and breakfast included. All proceeds May 8th – 17th Myrtle Beach Bike Week – Myrtle Beach, SC Judging/Prizes. Wear your leather, these can get rough! Rick goes to Edmarc. Sign in at 9 am last bike out at 10:30 am . Roger www.myrtlebeachbikeweek.com (Since 1940) McElrath, 252-917-3475 [email protected] Browns 316 High St. Portsmouth , Va. 23707.

th st May 10th Happy Mother’s Day! JUNE Jun 13 – 21 Laconia – Laconia, NH www.laconiamcweek.com (Since 1916) May 15th – 17th Petersburg, Virginia Suffolk Raceway Jun 1st – 6th Americade – Lake George, NY Jun 14th Flag Day Nostalgia “Little Guy Nationals” – Petersburg, VAVirginia www.tourexpo.com (Since 1983) Motorsports Park: Nostalgia & Muscle Car Show & Shine, Jun 17th – 20th Virginia State HOG Rally – Roanoke, VA www. Jun 5th & 6th 5th Annual Chickahominy Bike Classic Motorcycles Also Welcome!!! Come Show your stuff!!! vastatehogrally.com – Lanexa, VA Rockahock Campgrounds, 1428 Outpost Saturday and Sunday. Swap meet as well!!! Racin’ the way Road, Lanexa, VA 23089, (804)966-8362. And the tradition Jun 20th Father's Day Bike Show – Elizabeth City, NC Food, it was!!!! Heads up racing, Nostalgia Racing, Old style match continues….As with previous years, Rockahock’s 5th Annual Music, Bike Show. This is your weekend. Take a ride in the country races!!! Contact info: Doug (804)536-2305, dougl78@ Chickahominy Bike Classic will showcase some of the best then show off your bike. Outer Banks Harley-Davidson. Elizabeth yahoo.com; Johney (252)221-9990, a1320production@aol. upcoming and local talent on our amphitheater stage. Come City, NC /US 17 South. www.outerbankshd.com 252-338-8866 com; John (804)526-4267, [email protected]. www.

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE List your event free @ www.thunderroads-virginia.com

Jun 21st Father’s Day Aug 21st & 22nd 4th Annual Hawgs, Hosses & Hinies Roundup Sept 20th 3rd Annual Pony Run – Harbinger, NC Music, Food, Vendors, – Lanexa, VA Rockahock Campgrounds, Inc., 1428 Outpost Poker Run. To Benefit the Corolla Wild Horse Fund. Kitty Hawk Harley- Jun 21st 1st Day of Summer Road, Lanexa, VA 23089, 804-966-8362. Three days of live Davidson, Harbinger, NC. www.kittyhawkhd.com 252-491-2091 Jun 21st Dirt Drags @ Slade’s Park - Surry, VA Gates open 9 entertainment on our amphitheater stage situated on the banks of Sept 20th Dirt Drags @ Slade’s Park - Surry, VA Gates open 9 a.m. a.m. Admission $15, kids under 10 not racing are FREE. Free the Chickahominy River. This year’s entertainment lineup features Admission $15, kids under 10 not racing are FREE. Free vendor setup vendor setup - please call 1st. Trophies & Cash-All Classes. Top the 2009 Triple Threat Tour - Diamond Rio with special guest Little - please call 1st. Trophies & Cash-All Classes. Top Fuel at it’s Best- Fuel at it’s Best-Pro Gas/Dirt Bikes. No Colors - No Glass - No Texas and Restless Heart. This is weekend you don’t want to miss!!! Pro Gas/Dirt Bikes. No Colors - No Glass - No Dogs!!! For info call Joe Dogs!!! For info call Joe Brookman (804)221-3959. Rain date Local favorites will keep the party going all weekend. Enjoy great Brookman (804)221-3959. Rain date Sept. 27th. June 28th. food and merchandise vendors, bike games, bike show, and much more. Spend the weekend riding and relaxing. At Rockahock you Sept 22nd 1st Day of Fall Jun 25th – 28th Thunder in the Valley – Johnstown, PA www. can have it all while you get away from it all! Full hookup RV sites, visitjohnstownpa.com/thunderinthevalley (Since 1998) Sept 26th Bikers for Babies-March of Dimes Ride – Portsmouth, primitive RV sites, tent camping and Yurt & Cottage rentals available. VA Live Music, Food, Ride Pin, Vendors. Bayside Harley-Davidson, JULY Call now to make your reservations!!!!! Ticket Prices: Friday Only Portsmouth, VA. www.baysidehd.com 757 397-5550 - $15.00. Saturday Only - $35.00. Weekend - $45.00. For more July 4th Independence Day (Government offices closed Fri 7/3) information visit www.rockahock.com or call us at 804-966-8362. Sept 26th New Model Year Open House – Hughesville, MD July 9th – 11th Delaware/Maryland State HOG Rally Harley-Davidson of Washington, DC will be celebrating the New Aug 21st – 23rd 1st Annual Scooter Trash Mountain Crawl – Gaithersburg, MD www.mddestatehogrally.com Model Year with an event-filled day. Food, entertainment, sales, Virginia Beach, VA Friday Evening Pre-Ride Meet & Greet Party at contests and a great time! 9407 Livingston Rd. Ft Washington, MD July 12th – 15th West Virginia State HOG Rally – Canaan Valley, Knuckleheads Roadhouse,401 N. Witchduck Rd. Virginia Beach, 20744. www.hdwash.com, phone 301-248-1200, 10am to 4pm. WV www.wvstatehogrally.com VA. 23462.Live Entertainment, Dinner Buffet, Cold Beverages and Great Friends. 7:00 PM til closing. Saturday morning ride leaves Sept 30th – Oct 3rd Myrtle Beach Bike Days – Myrtle Beach, SC July 15th Ride To Work Day www.ridetowork.org (Since 1991) Knuckleheads at 8:00AM. The scenic route will run along US 460 www.myrtlebeachbikeweek.com Jul 17th – 19th Carlisle Bike Fest – Carlisle PA to Petersburg, Lynchburg and Bedford,VA. Continuing to Peaks OCTOBER www.carsatcarlisle.com/ce/events/bikefest (Since 2002) of Otter up the The Blue Ridge Parkway to Shenandoah Harley Sept 30th – Oct 3rd Myrtle Beach Bike Days – Myrtle Beach, SC Jul 18th 2nd Annual Weekend Blast - Dirt Drags @ Slade’s Davidson, Staunton, Va. The ride will continue to Lexington, Va. www.myrtlebeachbikeweek.com Park - Surry, VA July 18th & 19th. Live Band Saturday. Saturday to attend Hull’s Drive-In for a Double Feature under the stars 50’s style. We have negotiated an inclusive price of $25.00 pp for ATVs ONLY. Sunday MOTORCYCLES ONLY. Double Elimination Oct 2nd – 4th 2nd Annual Outer Banks Bike Fest – Harbinger & Movie Voucher, Hull’s T-Shirt and Back Yard Picnic Buffet. Along all weekend. Gates open 9 a.m. Admission $15, kids under 10 NagsHead, NC Bike Show, Poker Run, Guided Tours. Kitty Hawk the route we will stop at pre-arranged pit stops, places to eat and not racing are FREE. Free vendor setup - please call 1st. Trophies Harley-Davidson/Nags Head Harley-Davidson. www.kittyhawkhd. points of interest. Hotels have been blocked in Virginia Beach, Va & Cash-All Classes. Top Fuel at it’s Best-Pro Gas/Dirt Bikes. No com 252-491-2091 Colors - No Glass - No Dogs!!! For info call Joe Brookman (804)221- and Lexington, Va. for your convenience. For information contact Oct 9th – 10th Rumble Through The Tunnels-Fleet Ride 3959. “Grizz” at [email protected] or Herkman at [email protected]. Mailing address Mountain Crawl P.O. Box 60, Montebello, Va. 24464 – Portsmouth, VA Largest Motorcycle Event to Honor our Troops. AUGUST Welcome Party, Live Music, Vendors, Miss Fleet Ride Contest, SEPTEMBER Tattoo Contest. Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Give-A-Way!! Bayside Aug 3rd – 9th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally – Sturgis, SD www. Harley-Davidson. Portsmouth, VA/I-264/Exit 5. www.baysidehd.com sturgismotorcyclerally.com (Since 1938) Sept 4th – 6th 9th Annual Outer Banks Bike Show – Grandy, NC Bike Show, Vendors, Bands, Great Food, Cold Beer, Bike 757 397-5550 th th Aug 5 – 9 East Coast Sturgis – Little Orleans, MD Games. This event benefits the Navy Seals and Victory Junction Oct 15th – 18th Biketoberfest – Daytona Beach, FL www.eastcoaststurgis.com (Since 2003) Gang Camp. Your support will help our military families and also www.biketoberfest.org (Since 1992) Aug 16th 2nd Annual Vetshouse, Inc. Poker Run – Norfolk, VA help critically ill children. We appreciate your continued help and Oct 18th Dirt Drags @ Slade’s Park - Surry, VA Gates open 9 a.m. 2nd Annual Vetshouse, Inc. Poker Run - Norfolk, VA. - Sponsored support for this great event - This is our 9th year! FREE vendor Admission $15, kids under 10 not racing are FREE. Free vendor by VFW Riders of Hampton Roads & Knuckleheads Roadhouse space - We are asking that vendors make a tax deductible donation setup - please call 1st. Trophies & Cash-All Classes. Top Fuel at it’s - to support VETSHOUSE, INC., a privately financed transitional to the Naval Special Warfare Foundation. For availability, call 252- Best-Pro Gas/Dirt Bikes. No Colors - No Glass - No Dogs!!! For info program giving a hand-up (not a hand-out) to homeless vets in 453-2261 (Restaurant) or Email: [email protected]. call Joe Brookman (804)221-3959. Rain date Oct. 25th. the Tidewater area. Fee: $15/Rider & $10/Passanger - Register Event location: Barry’s Walnut Island Restaurant, 169 Walnut Island from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at VFW Post 4809 - 5728 Bartee Street, Blvd., Grandy North Carolina 27939. Lodging accommodations visit Oct 31st Halloween Open House & Fashion Show Norfolk (Behind Lone Star Steak House on Military Hwy. at Rt 264. www.walnutisland.com. Camping is available – email BarryOBX@ – Hughesville, MD Great winter/fall fashions modeled by the HOG Music - Food - Best & Worst Hand Prizes - Live Auction. Come out compueasy.com. For more info visit www.barrysbikerally.com Chapter, costume contest, candy for the kids, sales and more! 9407 and support our homeless vets! For more info - call Bob Staicer @ Sept 6th 6th Annual Pirate's Run – Elizabeth City, NC $1000 to Livingston Rd. Ft Washington, MD 20744, www.hdwash.com, 301- (757) 681-5765 - or Knuckleheads Roadhouse @ (757) 644-6220. the Pirate with the key to the Treasure Chest. Live Music, Food, 248-1200, 10am to 4pm Aug 16th Dirt Drags @ Slade’s Park – Surry, VA Gates open Vendors, Tattoo Contest, Tons of Door Prizes. Outer Banks Harley- NOVEMBER 9 a.m. Admission $15, kids under 10 not racing are FREE. Free Davidson, Elizabeth City, NC. Benefits Camp Celebrate-Camp for Nov 1st Daylight Savings Time Ends – Fall back! Set your clocks vendor setup - please call 1st. Trophies & Cash-All Classes. Top burn injured children. www.outerbankshd.com 252-338-8866 back 1 hour Fuel at it’s Best-Pro Gas/Dirt Bikes. No Colors - No Glass - No Sept 7th Labor Day Dogs!!! For info call Joe Brookman (804)221-3959. Rain date Aug. Nov 11th Veterans Day th 23rd. Sept 11 Patriot Day Nov 26th Happy Thanksgiving! th th Aug 20th – 22nd North Carolina State HOG Rally – Mt Airy, NC Sept 17 – 20 DelMarVa Bike Week – Ocean City, MD www. DECEMBER www.ncstatehogrally.com delmarvabikeweek.com (Since 2000) th Dec 12th Christmas Open House & Pictures with Santa Aug 21st – 22nd Bayside BIG BASH – Portsmouth, VA National Sept 19 2nd Annual Fall Motor Show – Elizabeth City, NC Cars, – Hughesville, MD Harley-Davidson of Washington, DC., 9407 Band, Vendors, Food, Over 100 Door Prizes, VIP Party. The Trucks & Motorcycles-All models welcome. Food, Music, Trophies. Livingston Rd. Ft Washington, MD 20744, www.hdwash.com, 301- end of summer BIG Bash Party at Bayside Harley-Davidson, Outer Banks Harley-Davidson, Elizabeth City, NC/US 17 South. 248-1200, 10am to 4pm Portsmouth, VA. www.baysidehd.com 757 397-5550 www.outerbankshd.com 252-338-8866 Dec 21st 1st Day of Winter

Dec 25th Merry Christmas! THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE The Legend of the Bell Many years ago, on a cold hollow of the bell. Among other things, their hearing is super- December night, a crusty old sensitive, so the constant ringing of the bell and the confined biker was returning from a trip space drives them insane. They lose their grip and eventually to Mexico with his saddlebags fall to the roadway. Have you ever wondered how potholes filled with toys and other as- are formed? sorted trinkets for the kids at The bell has served its purpose. If you pick up a Bell of a group home near where he your own, the magic will work, but if your bell is given to you, worked. As he rode along that the power is doubled, and you know that somewhere night thinking how lucky he had you have a special friend helping to look after you. been in life, having a loving So, if you have a friend who doesn’t have a bell, why not give riding partner that understood them one? It’s a nice feeling for the recipient to know you his need to roam the highways care. The bell, plus a good preventive maintenance program and to his trusty old pan that hadn’t let him down once in the by the bikes owner, will help eliminate Evil Road Spirits. many years they had shared the road together. Well about 40 miles north of the border, in the high desert, Polishing the Bell lurked a small group of notorious little critters known as It has been a tradition among some of us for a long time to road gremlins. You know, the ones who always leave little attach a brass bell to our left swing arm, to remember our obstacles like, one shoe, boards, and pieces of old tires on brothers and sisters who have gone down riding. It’s a small the road, and also dig those dreaded potholes for bikers to thing, but the reason a brass bell is chosen is that, as we run over and crash, thus giving the road gremlins a chance ride, it gets dirty and tarnished. Every time we get down to to rejoice over their acts of evil. Well, as the lone wolf of wash and polish it, we are reminded of friends lost, and our a biker rounded a curve that moonlit night, the gremlins thoughts turn to the meaning of being in the wind. As we ride ambushed him, causing him to crash to the asphalt and skid and hear the bell ring, we know that our brothers and sisters before coming to a stop next to one of his saddlebags that are riding with us, and how easy it would be to join them with had broken free. As he lay there, unable to move, the road a single mistake. And maybe, just maybe, the next time a gremlins made their way towards him. Well, this biker, not situation comes up; they will be there to help us...as long as being one to give up, started throwing things at the gremlins we remember them by polishing the bell. as they approached him. Finally, with nothing else to throw but a bell, he started ringing it in hopes to scare off the dirty little gremlins. About a half a mile away, camped in the desert, were two bikers sitting around the campfire talking about their day’s ride, and the freedom of the wind blowing in their faces as they rode across this vast country. In the stillness of the night air they heard what sounded to them like church bells ringing, and upon investigating, found the old biker lying along the TM roadside with the gremlins about to get him. Needless to say, lace” being part of the biker brotherhood, they proceeded to ward 60’s P off the gremlins until the last ran off into the night. “That Being grateful to the two bikers, the old road dog offered to pay them for their help, but as all true bikers do, they refused to accept any type of payment from him. Not being one to 201 Battery Park Road let a good deed go unnoticed, the old biker cut two pieces of Smithfield, Virginia 23430 leather from his saddlebags tassels and tied a bell to each one. He then placed them on each of the biker’s motorcycles, (Rt. 10 Business) as near to the ground as possible. The tired, old road war- Behind Farmers Bank rior then told the two travelers that with those bells placed on their bikes, they would be protected from the road gremlins and that if ever in trouble, just ring the bell and a fellow biker will come to their aid. So, whenever you see a biker with a bell, you know that he has been blessed with the most important thing in life— friendship from a fellow biker.

The Purpose of the Bell Many of us have heard the story about Evil Road Spirits. They are little gremlins that live on your bike. They love to ride, and they’re also responsible for most of your bike’s problems. Sometimes your turn signals refuse to work; your battery goes dead, the clutch needs adjustment, or any of several hundred things that can go wrong. These problems are caused by Evil Road Spirits. Evil Road Spirits can’t live www.ThunderbirdGrill.com in the presence of the bell, because they get trapped in the THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE Proud To Be An American

TOMB OF THE UNKNOWN SOLDIER Arlington National Cemetery Why are his gloves wet?

His gloves are moistened to prevent his losing his grip on the rifle.

How many steps does the guard take during his walk across the tomb of the Unknowns and why?

21 steps. It alludes to the twenty-one gun salute, which is the highest honor given any military or foreign dignitary.

Does he carry his rifle on the same shoulder all the time and if not, why not?

He carries the rifle on the shoulder away from the tomb. After his march across the path, he executes an about face How long does he hesitate after his about face to begin and moves the rifle to the outside shoulder. his return walk and why?

21 seconds for the same reason as above

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE Proud To Be An American shoe in order to make the loud click as they come to a halt. There are no wrinkles, folds or lint on the uniform. Guards dress for duty in front of a full-length mirror. The first six months of duty a guard cannot talk to anyone, nor watch TV. All off duty time is spent studying the 175 notable people laid to rest in Arling- ton National Cemetery. A guard must memorize who they are and where they are interred. Among the notables are: President Taft, Joe E. Lewis {the boxer} and Medal of Honor winner Audie Murphy, {the most decorated soldier of WWII} of Hollywood fame. Every guard spends five hours a day getting his uniforms ready for guard duty. In 2003 as Hurricane Isabelle was approaching Washington , DC , our US Senate/House took 2 days off with anticipation of the storm. On the ABC evening news, it was reported that because of the dangers from the hurricane, the military members assigned the duty of guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier were given permission to suspend the assignment. They respectfully declined the offer, ‘No way, Sir!’ Soaked to the skin, marching in the pelting rain of a tropical storm, they said that guarding the Tomb was not just an assignment, it was the highest honor that can be afforded to a service person. The tomb has been patrolled continuously, 24/7, since 1930. How often are the guards changed?

Guards are changed every thirty minutes, Twenty-four hours a day, 365 days a year.

What are the physical traits of the guard limited to?

For a person to apply for guard duty at the tomb, he must On the west, or rear, panel (facing the Amphitheater) the inscription reads: be between 5’ 10’ an d 6’ 2’ tall and his waist size cannot Here Rests In Honored Glory An American Soldier Known But To God exceed 30’. The Sentinels Creed: My dedication to this sacred duty is total and wholehearted. In the respon- Other requirements of the Guard: They must commit 2 years of life to sibility bestowed on me never will I falter. And with dignity and perseverance guard the tomb, live in a barracks under the tomb, and cannot drink any my standard will remain perfection. Through the years of diligence and praise alcohol on or off duty for the rest of their lives. They cannot swear in public for and the discomfort of the elements, I will walk my tour in humble reverence the rest of their lives and cannot disgrace the uniform {fighting} or the tomb to the best of my ability. It is he who commands the respect I protect. His in anyway. After two years, the guard is given a wreath pin that is worn on bravery that made us so proud. Surrounded by well meaning crowds by day their lapel signifying they served as guard of the tomb. There are only 400 alone in the thoughtful peace of night, this soldier will in honored glory rest presently worn. The guard must obey these rules for the rest of their lives or under my eternal vigilance. give up the wreath pin. The shoes are specially made with very thick soles to keep the heat and We should be very proud of our men and women in the military service no cold from their feet. There are metal heel plates that extend to the top of the matter where they serve. THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE Reasons Why The English One goose, 2 geese. So one moose, 2 meese? Doesn’t it seem crazy that you can make amends but not one Language Is So Hard To Learn: amend? 1) The bandage was wound around the wound. If you have a bunch of odds and ends and get rid of all but one of them, what do you call it? Is it an odd, or an end? 2) The farm was used to produce produce. If teachers taught, why didn’t preachers praught? 3) The dump was so full that it had to refuse more refuse. If a vegetarian eats vegetables, what does a humanitarian eat? 4) We must polish the Polish furniture. In what language do people recite at a play and play at a 5) He could lead if he would get the lead out. recital? 6) The soldier decided to desert his dessert in the desert. Ship by truck and send cargo by ship? Have noses that run and feet that smell? 7) Since there is no time like the present, he thought it was time to present the present. How can a slim chance and a fat chance be the same, while a wise man and a wise guy are opposites? 8) A bass was painted on the head of the bass drum. You have to marvel at the unique lunacy of a language in 9) When shot at, the dove dove into the bushes. which your house can burn up as it burns down, in which you fill in a form by filling it out and in which, an alarm goes off by 10) I did not object to the object. going on. 11) The insurance was invalid for the invalid. English was invented by people, not computers, and it reflects the creativity of the human race, which, of course, is 12) There was a row among the oarsmen about how to row. not a race at all. 13) They were too close to the door to close it. That is why, when the stars are out, they are visible, but when the lights are out, they are invisible. 14) The buck does funny things when the does are present. Why doesn’t ‘Buick’ rhyme with ‘quick’? 15) A seamstress and a sewer fell down into a sewer line.

16) To help with planting, the farmer taught his sow to sow.

17) The wind was too strong to wind the sail.

18) After a number of injections my jaw got number.

19) Upon seeing the tear in the painting I shed a tear.

20) I had to subject the subject to a series of tests.

21) How can I intimate this to my most intimate friend?

There is no egg in eggplant nor ham in hamburger; neither apple nor pine in pineapple.

English muffins weren’t invented in England or French fries in France.

Sweetmeats are candies while sweetbreads, which aren’t sweet, are meat.

Quicksand works slowly, boxing rings are square, and a guinea pig is neither from Guinea nor is it a pig.

And why is it that writers write but fingers don’t fing, grocers don’t groce and hammers don’t ham? Global Warming Protest If the plural of tooth is teeth, why isn’t the plural of booth beeth?

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 10 Tips To Manage A Bad Situation

tips. Simply pinch the end of a finger and it will How to Manage turn white. After releasing your finger, the redness should return in 2 seconds or less, this means that Fractured Arms you have adequate flow. If no pulse is present on your wrist, and blanching is longer than 2 seconds, By Kevin G. Charleville you must try, very carefully, to manipulate your arm until the two things return. If qualified emergency As we all anticipate good riding weather, this would help is not far away, you are concerned to do so, or be a good time to read an informative book or the pain is too great, then simply don’t do it. If help information on motorcycle safety. Sure, a lot of you arrives via passer by, then have them help you keep have been riding for many, many years and know the extremity in place, and, if they know how, they the road and your bike very well. However, even could make a makeshift sling. Do not let them do you seasoned veterans cannot anticipate the brave anything else unless it would be to control bleeding. deer, the intoxicated driver, or the unseen gravel If this unfortunate incident would happen to your around a sharp turn. So, with that said, lets look at passenger, then you would basically follow the same a scenario. You are cruising around one day and procedure. Remember, do not panic and stay calm, decide to hit the curves for a grand finale of your and take a First aid Course and CPR course. These ride. Everything is going as you planned, you are skills can be obtained at you local Red Cross. Be hitting the curves, leaning perfectly, and you feel careful out there. you have total control of your bike. Suddenly, you round a curve, and there is loose gravel covering the road from one side to the other. No where to go, you hit it, and down you go. Your right elbow and arm hit the ground first, fracturing your elbow and the lower part of your arm. (Ulna and radius) What to do? If able, call for help. In the mean time, keep the fractured limb in the position it is in at the time. Because if you try to move it, two things might happen, obviously more pain, and you may cause internal damage. Next, after reality kicks in, you must try to check your pulse to see if you are getting adequate blood flow to the rest of you lower arm. I.e. wrist, hand, and fingers. Simply take your free hand and press two fingers on your wrist just below your thumb; you should feel your pulse. It is best to practice this at home under controlled conditions. Also, you can do a blanching test on your finger

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 11 If you’ve got some “Hot Shot” pictures you’d like to share with us, please send them to [email protected] . Pictures must be high resolution (300 dpi) in order to print clearly. All are welcome but please keep ‘em somewhat clean so everyone can enjoy!

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 12 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 13 Easyriders V-Twin Bike Show Charlotte NC. Jan 25, 2009

By Ricky Derby

The Easy Riders V-Twin Bike Show Tour made it’s way east in January into Charlotte, NC. It was a mixture of a Car Show and Bike Show together and was a nice surprise for me. The Show Bike numbers seemed to be less than in previous years but the quality of the Bikes were outstanding. The show drew a good crowd on Sunday and wasn’t too large, so all had plenty of room to get close to the Bikes and talk to the Build- ers. The band was awesome. They had just won a local contest and everyone really enjoyed them. There was cold beer, good food, pretty girls, hot cars and some great bikes there…what more could one ask for.

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 14 LUCK O’THE IRISH WARM SWEET POTATO BREAD SHAMROCK GREEN POT O’ GOLD W/ SOFT PINEAPPLE BUTTER VELVEETA CHEESY BROCCOLI SOUP 1-3/4 Cups All-Purpose Flour 2 Tbls. Butter 1-1/2 Cups Sugar or Baking Splenda 1/4 Cup Chopped Onion 1-1/2 tsp. ground Cinnamon 2 Tbls. Flour 1 tsp. Ground Nutmeg 2-1/2 Cups Whole Milk 1/2 tsp. Baking Soda 3/4 lb. (12 oz.) Velveeta Block Cheese; cut up 1/2 tsp. Baking Powder 1 Pkg. Frozen Broccoli Florets; thawed, drained and cut up Pinch of Salt 1 Pkg. of pre-grilled chicken, cut into 1” strips 2 Eggs Salt & Pepper to taste 1 Cup Mashed Sweet Potatoes Melt butter in large saucepan on medium heat. Add onion; cook & stir 1/2 Cup Canola Oil 5 mins. or until onion is tender. Add flour; cook 1 minute longer or until 1/3 Cup Water bubbly, stirring constantly. Stir in milk. bring to boil. Reduce heat to SOFT PINEAPPLE BUTTER: medium-low; simmer 1 minute. Add remaining ingredients. Cook until 1/2 Cup Real Butter, softened Velveeta cheese is thoroughly melted. Serve w/ hot crusty bread and 1 Can (8 ozs.) Crushed Pineapple, well drained soft butter. This is a meal in itself and so simple to make. Takes 10 In a large bowl, combine the first (7) ingredients. In a small bowl, com- minutes! bine the eggs, mashed potatoes, oil & water. Stir into dry ingredients until just moistened. SWEET MARY MULLIGAN’S MINI REUBENS Transfer to a greased 9x5 inch loaf pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 55 1 Pound of Corn Beef; Sliced Thin mins. or till toothpick inserted in center comes out clean as a whistle. 1 Pkg. of Mini Potato Rolls - 16 to a pack that are Cook for 10 minutes before removing from pan to a wire rack. In a small apprx. 4” long, each. (usually found over in your bowl combine butter & pineapple. Butter should be soft; and serve w/ “Specialty Bread” section near the Deli- split open warmed bread. Debbie Jackson of TN tested this recipe for Thunder 1 Bottle of Bavarian Sauerkraut Roads and it was indescribably delicious! Bonus...... sweet potato any- 1 Bottle of Premium Quality Thousand Island Dressing thing is so good for you! 1 Pkg. of Swiss Cheese pre-cut into 3”x1-1/2” strips. These can be found in your grocer’s cheese cooler, underneath the LUCKY LEPRECHAUN’S ZIPPY DEVILED EGGS hanging shredded cheeses. Yields: 10 Eggs Margarine for skillet, which skillet needs to be one of the long, electric 5 Hard Boiled Eggs kind you usually can make an entire breakfast on that has a huge 4 Tbls. Mayonnaise working surface. 4 Tbls. Canned, Chopped Green Chilies Heat skillet to medium heat and set up your ingredients like an assem- 2-1/2 tsp. Chipotle Pepper in Adobo Sauce bly line; rolls, corned beef, cheese, sauerkraut and last dressing over 1 flat tsp. of Garlic Salt top it all. Put a Tbl. of margarine on grill and melt down and spread it 1 Cup of Premium-style Chunky Salsa around and start assembling your mini Reubens, just going down the 2 tsp. Thinly Sliced Green Onions line of ingredients. Make sure you put enough dressing and pour it 5 X-Large, Pitted Ripe Black Olives, Quartered onto bun top so it sinks in. Load your skillet surface up. It holds apprx. Cut eggs in half lengthwise. Remove yolks and set cleaned out whites (9) at a time. Just let them go and when you see the cheese is melting off to side. In a small bowl, mash yolks. Stir in mayo, chilies, chipotle then flip them and let them go on the other side. Make all that you pepper & garlic salt. Spoon mixture or pipe back into whites. Top off with want, transfer to a serving tray and keep warm w/ aluminum foil while a dab of salsa & sprinkle of green onions. you cook all you want. I made these for a Super Bowl Party and they were a huge hit! The great thing is they’re phenomenal served warm, SHAMROCK MILKSHAKE yields 1; adjust for extra but even great when sit for a bit. Add 1 cup whole milk to blender, 2 Tbls. of Jell-O Pistachio Instant Pud- ding and 1 Oreo Mint Chocolate Cookie; finely chopped. Blend, stick in a straw & slurp it up.

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 15 TIMONIUM BIKE SHOW BREAKS ANOTHER RECORD!! Feb 6th – 8th, 2009 Maryland State Fairgrounds Timonium, MD

Perfect weather, 287 of the east coast’s top custom and antique bikes entered in competition, over five hundred new 2009 motorcycle models on display from 27 manufacturers, approachable TV stars, great tattoo contests and high energy fashion shows all combined to produce a record crowd for this year’s Timonium Motorcycle Show. The Timonium Show, nicknamed ‘The Big One’, was held Friday, Saturday and Sunday, February 6, 7 and 8, 2009, indoors at the Mary- land State Fairgrounds. Vinnie and Cody of Discovery Channel’s ‘American Chopper’ Series fame couldn’t have been more friendly and receptive to all their fans and fellow bike builders. Super model Coco and her husband Ice-T, star of NBC’s weekly series ‘Law and Order’, signed autographs and took photos with admirers for hours at a time without taking a break. When all was said and done 45,162 two-wheel enthusi- ast passed through the turnstiles at this year’s Motorcycle Showcase. All took advantage of the vast array of products and services on displays from over 200 vendors. Many of the regions top custom bike shops were on hand showing off their latest creations for both the American and Metric lovers. The following lists, in alphabetical order, the custom build, paint and fabrication shops that had exhibit space at the show: Artistic Creations, Artistic Metal Finishing, Bio Hazardous Customs, Black Dog Custom Cycle, C & C Cycle, CTM Custom Cycles, Charm City Choppers, Davz Customs, Death Row Motorcycles, Deer Park Customs, Departure Cycles, East Side Custom Chop- pers, Eastern Performance Cycles, Genco’s Paint Works, Gravesend Custom Cycles, Howard Customs, I.C.E. Independent Cycle East, Irish Choppers, J & P Eastcoast Wild Rods, Kundratic Kustoms, Krome Kandy, Left Hook Custom Seats, Longo Custom Seats, M & J Racing, Martin Customs, McCullough’s Custom Cycles, Nick’s Custom Cycles, Pin Point Customs, RAM Cycles, Real Deal Customs, The Rim Stripe, Savage Cycles, Sparkling Image Customs Cycles, Stone Cycles, T.H. Kustomz, Triple Plate Customs, Tri State Custom Seats and V- Force Customs. Every vendor polled at the end of the show and every email we have received to date, have been positive about their sales and experience with the event’s high quality attendees. We are already planning to make next year’s show even better with input from our nine member show committee representing dealers, custom builders and motorcycle equipment and apparel suppliers. The best show dates of the season have already been secured for next year – Friday, Saturday and Sunday, February 12, 13 and 14, 2010. The first weekend after Super Bowl, Valentine’s Day Weekend, weeks before Daytona…Show dates don’t get any better than this! Check out this year’s Custom and Antique Bike Com- petition winners and show photos at www.cycleshow.net.

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 16 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 17 TECH TIPS

and rinsing, an air blower is a great way to get rid Maintenance Myths of excess water that would ordinarily saturate many towels. The air is non abrasive and its blast eliminates Fellow riders, a lot of work for you. If you have an air compressor you can do the same thing with the appropriate I am sure we all had a family member, friend, co- fitting. The major advantage I see is that hi pressure worker or acquaintance try to convince us that a air can get of the water sitting in the handlebar certain product was the best thing next to already switch housings which could eliminate or lessen the cooked bacon or recommended a better way to possibility of malfunctions in the future. Water and clean something. I have also. And I am writing this electronics don’t get along like Brad and Angelina. edition of edition of Tech Tips to dispel only some of the various tricks of the loose lipped that could 3. Windshields, windshields, windshields... What cause you trouble if you take their advice. can I say? Countless times I have run across guys

and gals who complain that that their windshield 1. Very rarely do oil additives have any are scratched and can’t see at night. I will share my . These additives beneficial effects on the engine new found wealth of knowledge for those of you contain substances that do not burn cleanly, thus who haven’t heard... Never Use Windex on LEXAN affecting all engine components and also have a windshields... Never.... Until I hear that there is a tendency to break down the natural viscosity of miracle cleaner out there, I recommend just water and the oil itself. I have discussed this issue with many a microfiber towel. Always wipe in 1 direction, not up mechanics and the common consensus is... if you and down, side to side...If you have a buildup of bugs change oil, primary included on a regular basis as and road gunk, soak your towel in warm water and per manufacturer specs.. you should never need place over affected area and let towel do its work... an oil additive. If you must indulge yourself go usually 5 to 10 minutes. Remember to wipe residue synthetic. Why anyone would add Magic Mystery Oil off in 1 direction. Strange as it sounds I have actually to their bike is a mystery to me. heard of people taking their windshield into the shower

with them and letting the hot water and steam do 2. Years ago the way to dry, apply wax and buff the work for them. I can personally attest to the fact Well, I as many of you suppose was a terry cloth. that this works. It’s lessen the work for you but, you also got that recent newsflash. Recent studies say may have to explain to someone who may open your that terry cloths are almost as bad as using a scotch shower curtain as to why a windshield is the shower brite pad on your paint. The best way to go as I see with you.. the rest is up to you.. it is.. micro fiber towels... they are softer, trap grit and do a great job. The trick is use all the towel.. Until next time... Keep the motor running If you see dirt on the towel, refold it so you have Paul a clean part of the towel and continue. Another option that was not available to me way back when was the air blower. This has been a god send to me. After a good bike rinse, soaping, sponging

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 18 Got A Light? There’s a Vespa under there somewhere DEADLINE!

PLACING AN AD WITH US? LISTING YOUR EVENT IN OUR CALENDAR?

DON’T FORGET THAT OUR DEADLINE IS THE 15th OF EVERY MONTH FOR THE FOLLOWING MONTH’S ISSUE…DON’T BE LEFT BEHIND!

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 19

Easter

www.thunderroads-virginia.com Hot Plate

GOOD FOR YOU! PURPLE POWER!

Foods with a purple hue could be especially beneficial for the brain. Photochemical found in purple produce might actually stave off memory loss. Anthocyanins, the stuff behind the purple- ish pigment in berries, cherries, eggplant, and more, have been shown to improve learning ability, memory, and coordination skills in certain studies. So fill your fridge with all the blue-ish/red foods you can find.

Happy St. Patty’s Day

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 22 ABATE of Virginia ABATE Virginia Cruisers Chapter ( Hampton , VA ) welcomes all riders to join in the fight to protect your meets 1PM every 1st Sunday at Mugzy's Grill, 1312 E. rights. No matter what you ride, we want YOU! For more Pembroke Ave, Hampton, VA. Everyone welcome. For more information contact Sharon Keaton at 540-937-3924 or information contact Pete Bulgart at 757-870-1517 or John at [email protected]. Stay on top of the latest [email protected]. ABATE news and events by visiting www.ABATEofVA.com. Beacons/Christian Motorcycle Association - Meetings: ABATE Coalfield Riders Chapter ( Grundy , VA ) 2nd Monday of each month, Piccadilly Cafeteria, Military meets 7PM every 2nd Saturday at Caleb & Melissa's garage, Hwy, 6-8 PM. Monthly ride: 4th Saturday of each month, Deel Fork, Grundy , VA 24614-9600 . Everyone Welcome. depart from Shoney’s on Indian River Rd. Check our For more information contact Steve Stacy at 276-935-2484 website for ride times and more information: http://cmaner5. or [email protected] org/VA/BEACONSOFTIDEWATER or contact President Lenny Stowell at (757) 420-4411 or [email protected] ABATE Culpeper Chapter ( Culpeper , VA ) meets 7PM every 2nd Thursday at Hazel River Pub, 105 Bikers with Heart Foundation, Inc. E Davis St, Culpeper , VA 22701. Everyone Welcome. For 501 ©3 Non-Profit Organization, National Fallen Biker more information contact Tim Dalman at 540-219-6366 or Memorial Weekend, P.O. Box 291 Bryantown, MD 20617, [email protected] Office: (301) 893-2900 Email: [email protected] . Website: www.mlkm5project.com. Motto: We Ride Because ABATE 1st Capitol Chapter ( Williamsburg , VA ) We Care meets 9AM every 1st Sunday at Beachcomber's Restaurant, 8811 George Washington Memorial Hwy, Yorktown , VA Christian Motorcyclist Association Northern Virginia 23692. Everyone Welcome. For more information contact Chapter 348 www.nvcrcma.com NVCR meets 3rd Sat each Gene Spare at 757-903-6541 or [email protected] month @ Old Country Buffet in Manassas @ 9:00 am, President – Rick Saunders, [email protected] Richmond, ABATE Iron Horse Calvary Chapter ( Lynchburg , VA ) Va. 23230. Mike Walton, President (804) 514-9123 meetings meets 7PM every 1st Tuesday at Mary Jane's Café, 826 come out and ride with us anyway. It’s not about the Kemper St, Lynchburg , VA 24502-3250. Everyone Welcome. meetings. For more information on meetings or rides please For more information contact Tronco at 434-993-3197 or contact our chapter president, Mark Johnson, at president@ [email protected] star440.org or go the www.star440.org

ABATE Lonesome Pine Chapter (Wise, VA) Moose Riders District 8 meets 6:30PM every 1st Tuesday at Mosby's Restaurant, Meetings 1st Monday of Month. Contact Bubba @ 804-691- 205 Ridgeview Rd, Wise , VA 24293. Everyone Welcome. 7671. Email: [email protected] or Jeff @ 804- For more information contact Shag Mead at 276-565-4541 or 892-3346 Email: [email protected] [email protected] TAMA – Tidewater Albemarle Motorcycle Association. ABATE Mason-Dixon Chapter ( Fairfax , VA ) ALL clubs or any organization that hosts rides/events are meets 8PM every 2nd and 4th Tuesday at John's Place, welcome to attend. Come out & meet some good people 11104 Lee Hwy, Fairfax , VA 22030-5005. Everyone from all around the area. We’re all working together so that Welcome. For more information contact Bob Seoane at 703- each one our rides/events can be scheduled not to conflict 206-0571or [email protected] with others & then we can all have a successful turnout. Our meetings are held @ 7PM on the 3rd Thursday of every ABATE Olde Dominion Chapter ( Falls Church , VA ) month (except December) at the Golden Corral, on the meets 8PM every 1st Monday at JVs Restaurant, 6666 corner of Volvo Pkwy & Battlefield Blvd in Chesapeake, VA. Arlington Blvd, Falls Church , VA 22042-2145. Everyone www.tamaevents.com Welcome. For more information contact Tank Fortner at 703- 309-7197 or [email protected] Virginia Freedom Riders - Riders Against Constitutional Erosion (VFR-R.A.C.E.) exists as a grassroots State ABATE River City Chapter ( Richmond , VA ) Motorcycle Rights Organization (SMRO) dedicated to 'No meetings, just action!' For more information contact protecting and restoring motorcyclists personal freedoms, Steve Skeens at 804-389-8293 or [email protected] liberties and individual rights. email: [email protected]. Website:vfr-race.com

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 23

The Gettysburg Bike Show 2nd Annual Gettysburg Bike Show and Expo :: March 28 & 29, 2009 www.gettysburgbikeshow.com Sponsored by:

Featuring special live appearance by Michele Smith of Speed Channel's American Thunder

www.michelesmith.tv

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 26 There Is Some Good News Among The Bad News On The Economy

By Tim Friedman debt actually declined in the 3rd qtr, 2008 and the savings The economy seems to be the topic on everyone’s minds. rate rose from 0.2% in the 1st qtr to 1.1% for the 3rd qtr. With the Wall Street and Automaker bailouts, the record (source, Federal Reserve Bank) home foreclosures and the increase in layoffs and the un- So people aren’t spending, which unfortunately contrib- employment rate, there sure seems to be a lot of bad news. utes to the decline in the economy. To a certain extent it is But not all the news is bad. There are some reasons to a self fulfilling prophecy. The media says things are bad, be optimistic. First of all, the #1 culprit to the problem, the people stop spending, and things get bad. price of Oil, has taken a major hit, declining from a high of The media is overplaying their hand, and people need $147 a barrel in July to $35 a barrel in December, 2008. to appreciate that there is a silver lining to the cloud. The This helps the economy in almost every way. media keeps saying credit is dried up and no one can get First it reduces the cost of gas for everyone, from a a loan, yet home refinancing is on the rise, as are new pur- National Average high of $4.12 to a price of $1.64 as of chase loans. Also, while the auto manufacturers have seen December 26, 2008. (source Gasbuddy.com) Cheaper gas a decline in sales over the last couple months, November, means less spent at the pump, and more money available 2008 sales are down 36.7 % versus November, 2007, YTD to meet mortgage payments and keep food on the table. sales for 2008 are only down 16.3% and auto sales are Second it reduces the cost of a major component of almost still occurring, with 0% financing available at nearly every every business in the US, reducing the costs of manufactur- dealer. ing and distribution, which helps keep prices from increas- Yes, things aren’t good for everyone, but things aren’t as ing (the inflation rate for 2008 was a measly 0.1% - source bad as the media might have you believe, and with the cost Bureau of Labor Statistics, www.bls.gov) and helps keep of fuel and the cost of credit dropping, we may be look- companies from laying off more workers than they might ing at the bottom of this economy. By the way, the rate of otherwise. inflation for 2008 was only 0.1%. (source Bureau of Labor Crude Oil is not the only fuel to see a price decline. Natu- Statistics, www.bls.gov) ral Gas prices have also seen a steep decline, dropping * Tim Friedman has worked in the securities industry for from a high of $13.577 in July 2008 to $5.334 in December over 20 years and has a degree in Economics from the 2008. (source futures.tradingcharts.com) In St. Louis, MO University of Missouri. the gas utility company, Laclede Gas, has even received permission to lower its rates by the Missouri Public Service Statistics As of July 2008 Commission. (source St. Louis Business Journal, Novem- ber 14, 2008) Interest rates Source Another bright spot is the interest rates on mortgages, 30 yr Fixed Conventional 6.63% (Mortgage-X.com) which have fallen from a high of 6.63% in July, 2008 to a Crude Oil $147 (Gasbuddy.com) low of 5.14 in December, 2008. (source mortgage-x.com) Gas (National Avg) $4.12 (Gasbuddy.com) This has caused an influx of refinancing, enabling people Gas (St. Louis) $4.01 (Gasbuddy.com) to lower their mortgage costs, and an increase in purchase Natural Gas $13.577 (futures.tradingcharts.com) applications. (source, Bankrate.com) So, are we in a recession? Well, first of all, what is a As of 12-26-08 recession? Most economists agree that a recession is Interest rates defined as 2 successive quarters of negative economic 30 yr Fixed Conventional 5.19% (Mortgage-X.com) growth, as defined by GDP (Gross Domestic Product). For Crude Oil $35 (Gasbuddy.com) the 2nd Qtr of 2008, GDP was a positive 2.8%, but for the Gas (National avg) $1.64 (Gasbuddy.com) 3rd Qtr, GDP was down by -0.5%. (source Bureau of Eco- Gas (St. Louis) $1.39 (Gasbuddy.com) nomic Analysis, www.bea.gov) That’s a pretty small decline. Natural Gas $5.334 (futures.tradingcharts.com) At the time of this article, 4th Qtr results had not yet been Auto sales from 11/07 to 11/08 -36.7% (WardsAuto.com) published, but economists do predict another negative YTD 2007 to 2008 -16.3% (Wardsauto.com) quarter. But does this really matter to you or me? 2008 Inflation rate 0.1% (Bureau of Labor Statistics, BEA.gov) The major news organizations have done an excellent job 2nd Qtr GDP 2.8% (Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS.gov) scaring the bejebers out of everyone, causing most people 3rd Qtr GDP -0.5% (Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS.gov) to scale back their spending. In fact, for the first time since they started keeping statistics in 1952, overall consumer

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 27 Two hillbillies walk into a bar. While having a shot of When the couple finishes, the doctor says, “There’s whiskey, they talk about their moonshine operation. absolutely nothing wrong with the way you have inter- Suddenly, a woman at a nearby table, who is eating a course.” He thanks them for coming, he wishes them sandwich, begins to cough. And, after a minute or so, good luck, he charges them $50 and he says good it becomes apparent that she is in real distress. One of bye. The next week, the same couple returns and asks the hillbillies looks at her and says, “Kin ya swallar?” the sex therapist to watch again. The sex therapist is a The woman shakes her head no. Then he asks, “Kin ya bit puzzled, but agrees. This happens several weeks breathe?” The woman begins to turn blue and shakes in a row. The couple makes an appointment, has inter- her head no. The hillbilly walks over to the woman, course with no problems, pays the doctor, then leave. lifts up her dress, yanks down her drawers and quickly Finally, after 3 months of this routine, the doctor says, gives her right butt cheek a steady, long lick with his “I’m sorry, but I have to ask. Just what are you trying tongue. The woman is so shocked that she has a vio- to find out?” The man says, “We”re not trying to find lent spasm and the obstruction flies out of her mouth. out anything. She’s married; so we can’t go to her As she begins to breathe again, the Hillbilly walks house. I’m married and we can’t go to my house. The slowly back to the bar. His partner says, “Ya know, I’d Holiday Inn charges $98. The Hilton charges $139. We heerd of that there ‘Hind Lick Maneuver’ but I ain’t niver do it here for $50, and Medicare pays $43 of it, leaving seen nobody do it!” my net cost of $7.” A crusty old man walks into the local Church and says A good ol’ hillbilly-redneck from Tennessee walked to the secretary, “I would like to join this damn church. into a bank in New York City and asked for the loan The astonished woman replies, “I beg your pardon, sir. I officer. He told the loan officer that he was going to must have misunderstood you. What did you say?” Bakersfield on business for two weeks and needed “Listen up, damn it. I said I want to join this damn to borrow $5,000 and that he was not a regular cus- church! “I’m very sorry sir, but that kind of language is tomer of the bank. The loan officer told him that the not tolerated in this church.” The secretary leaves her bank would need some form of security for the loan, desk and goes into the pastor’s study to inform him so the redneck handed over the keys to a new Fer- of her situation. The pastor agrees that the secretary rari. The car was parked on the street in front of the does not have to listen to such foul language. They both bank. The redneck produced the title and everything return to her office and the pastor asks the old geezer, checked out. The loan officer agreed to hold the car “Sir, what seems to be the problem here?” “There is as collateral for the loan and apologized for having to no damn problem,” the man says. “I just won $200 charge 12% interest. Later, the bank’s president and million bucks in the damn lottery and I want to join this its officers all enjoyed a good laugh at the redneck damn church to get rid of some of this damn money.” “ from the south for using a $250,000 Ferrari as collat- I see...” said the pastor. “And is this damn bitch giving eral for a $5,000 loan. An employee of the bank then you a hard time???” drove the Ferrari into the bank’s underground garage and parked it. Two weeks later, the redneck returned, You are blonde and on a bus, when you suddenly fart. repaid the $5,000 and the interest of $23.07. The loan Luckily the music is very loud. So every time you fart, officer said, “Sir, we are very happy to have had your you time it with the music. When you start making your business, and this transaction has worked out very way to the door as you exit the bus, you notice every- nicely, but we are a little puzzled. While you were away, body is throwing disgusted looks at you, and you sud- we checked you out and found that you are a multimil- denly realize...You’re listening to your IPod! lionaire horse breeder. What puzzles us is why would you bother to borrow $5,000.00?” The Tennessee What Do You Call Four Bullfighters In Quicksand? redneck replied, “Well, sonny, where else in New York Quattro Sinko. City can I park my car for two weeks for only $23.07 What’s The Difference Between Roast Beef And Pea and expect it to be there when I return?” Soup? Anyone Can Roast Beef. Why Do Gorillas Have Big Nostrils? Because They Have Big Fingers . HAVE A SAFE, BUT TOTALLY FUN ST. PATTY’s DAY. Blarney, just laugh with the leprechauns in yer life A Florida couple, both well into their 80s, go to a sex therapist’s office. The doctor asks, “What can I do for you?” The man says, “Will you watch us have sexual intercourse?” The doctor raises both eyebrows, but he is so amazed that such an elderly couple is asking for sexual advice that he agrees to consult. THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 28 SEXY NUNS??? Redneck Sisters Mary Catherine, Maria Theresa, Katherine Marie, Rose Frances & Mary Kathleen left the Convent on a sightseeing trip to St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York City. It was hot and humid that day and their traditional garb was Mobile making them so uncomfortable, they decided to stop in at Patty McGuire's Pub for a cold soft drink. Patty had recently added special legs to her barstools, which were the talk of the fashionable eastside neighborhood. All 5 Nuns sat up Home at the bar and were enjoying their Cokes when Monsignor Riley and Father McGinty entered the bar through the front door... They, too, came for a cold drink when they were shocked and almost fainted at what they saw.…

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 29 NEWS RELEASE forward to biker tourism and many rely on Bike Week to provide a significant portion of their yearly income.” Contact: Mike Shank The City of Myrtle Beach and the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber (843) 267-7443 or email [email protected] of Commerce have initiated an aggressive media campaign that gives the erroneous impression that new laws the city TH 69 ANNUAL BIKE WEEK (AKA CRUISIN’ THE COAST recently passed apply county-wide. However, those laws, BIKE WEEK) WILL STILL BE HELD ALONG MYRTLE which have reportedly been passed to discourage bikers BEACH’S GRAND STRAND IN MAY 2009 from attending rallies in the area, apply only to the areas

within the city limits of Myrtle Beach — not throughout the South Carolina’s Grand Strand And Horry County, S.C. Grand Strand and Horry County. Welcome Bikers January 19, 2009, Myrtle Beach, S.C. — Myrtle Beach “Awareness of the new laws will ensure that bikers who plan Harley-Davidson wants bikers to know that although the City to come to the Grand Strand have nothing to worry about,” of Myrtle Beach, S.C., has passed some laws designed to said Shank. “There will be plenty of activities and places to discourage bikers from attending the 69th Annual Spring Bike congregate outside of the city limits and throughout Horry Week, May 8-17, the popular event is still on. From Murrells County. It’s unfortunate that the City of Myrtle Beach and the Inlet to Little River, other communities within Myrtle Beach’s Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce don’t want biker home county of Horry are gearing up to welcome bikers. business in May; but we hope bikers understand that many businesses both within the City and throughout Horry County The majority of the events for Bike Week will take place look forward to bike week during the month of May. As long as in Horry County, outside of the Myrtle Beach City limits. you obey the laws and respect our community, you’ll always Newly-passed Myrtle Beach rules and regulations WILL be welcomed by the citizens of Horry County.” NOT affect bikers who visit or impact any of those activities and events. For the facts, Shank directs bikers to www.mbbikeweeks.com or www.myrtlebeachharley.com. At those sites, bikers can “Many tourists wrongly believe that Myrtle Beach is find information about the difference between Horry County synonymous with the 60-mile-long ‘Grand Strand’ that is and the City of Myrtle Beach, including maps, alternative visited by more than 14 million tourists annually,” said Mike routes that avoid the city limits, the new City of Myrtle Beach Shank, marketing director for Myrtle Beach Harley-Davidson. laws, and regular updates. “In reality, the City of Myrtle Beach is just a small town inside of Horry County. It only has 25,000 residents. To the north, “We want bikers to know the facts so they can make an south and west of Myrtle Beach is the much-larger Grand informed decision about visiting our area,” adds Shank. Strand community where there are many restaurants, bars, “Grand Strand businesses want your business. The City of recreational facilities and accommodations. Horry County Myrtle Beach has never played a significant role in either has more than 250,000 residents and they are preparing the spring or fall bike weeks and has made it clear for many their businesses to welcome bikers. years that it doesn’t want to play a role. They’ve raised taxes to eliminate biker tourism, but no other municipality “Unfortunately, information being sent out by Myrtle Beach in Horry County has done so. And the City of Myrtle Beach and its Chamber of Commerce paints good, law-abiding passed new ordinances designed to scare bikers away. No motorcycle riders with the same broad brush as those who other local municipality or the county has done so. So we have broken laws in the past. In addition, their misinformation hope that bikers won’t be discouraged by this campaign of does not accurately portray the views of Horry County misinformation. We want you to come to Horry County and residents. The majority of people and businesses look have a great time this May.”

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 30 HOME SERVICES DIRECTORY Home Improvements A-Team Home Improvements Specializing in drywall, ceramic tile, painting, decks and water/fire damage restoration. Contact Jackie @ (252) 562-3325 or Billy @ (757) 717-9893 or email us @ [email protected] We serve Hampton Roads, Va. and Northeastern NC. Everyone needs services at their homes at one time or another. We’d like to help Upholstering our readers find those services. Our directory lists businesses or individuals within the Albert Upholstery Mid-Atlantic region, who provide services For your home, specializing in antique furniture upholstery that are performed onsite for homeowners Serving Dinwiddie County & surrounding areas or residents. We want to give our readers a (804) 265-5166 place that they can turn to for help when they need it…right where they live. If you provide a home service of some sort or know of anyone Pest Control who does, and would like to be a part of our Universal Pest & Termite Inc. Home Services Directory, please send an email Southside Hampton Roads (757) 502-0200 to [email protected] . Include Peninsula & Suffolk (757) 485-5005 the type of service you offer, locations that www.universalpest.com you are serving, and exactly how you would like your listing to appear (name of business, service areas, contact info, email, website etc..) Electrical and how many months you’d like to run your Mister Sparky listing. The cost is only $10 per month (per We’re On Time, You’ll See, Or the Repair is Free issue), $50 for 6 months or an entire year (12 Southside Hampton Roads (757) 644-4399 issues) for $100. Our deadlines are the 15th of Peninsula (757) 325-9769 each month for the following month’s issue.

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 31 BIKER FRIENDLY DIRECTORY Thunder Roads Is Brought To You Each Month By The Following Biker Friendly Businesses It’s important for you to know who your friends are Coleman Power Sports Southside Harley-Davidson/Buell, Inc. * out there when you hit the road! Welcome to our Biker Friendly Directory. The following is a list of 14105 Telegraph Rd. 385 North Witchduck Rd establishments throughout the Mid-Atlantic that want Woodbridge, VA Virginia Beach, VA you to know that they’re here for YOU. Whether it’s (757) 499-8964 a bike dealer, service shop, restaurant, bar or any (703) 497-1500 other type of business that welcomes our biking www.wherethepoweris.com www.hrhd.com community through their doors, you can count on our family of friends to always welcome you in. ALL of our regular advertisers can be found, in bold, Departure Bike Works * Sundown Cycles * throughout this listing. All of our friends listed are 5216 Hull St 4325 Sarellen Rd. “Biker Friendly” & most of them ride too, so they know exactly what you want & need. The staff here Richmond, VA 23224 Richmond, VA 23231 at Thunder Roads greatly appreciates of all of our (804) 231-0244 (804) 855-2525 advertiser’s continuous support each month - they www.sundowncycles.com are the sole financial supporters of this magazine. www.departure.com WE WOULD NOT EXIST WITHOUT THEM! So please give them the support that they truly deserve for Early’s Cycle Center, Inc. * Thunder Road Harley-Davidson * being with us & drop by to see them for a visit. Let them know that you saw them here in Thunder Virginia’s Leading Yamaha Dealer 4960 Riverside Drive Roads. If you know of a business that would like 1921 South High Street Danville, VA 24541-5630 to join our Thunder Roads family of Biker Friendly Places, please give us a call (757) 831-2264 or email Harrisonburg, VA 22801 (434) 822-BIKE (2453) [email protected]. www.earlyscycle.com www.thunderroadhd.com “Where There’s Bikes….There’s Going To Be Thunder - THUNDER ROADS” * Pick up your FREE copy of Gary’s Automotive Again * Thunder Roads at these locations 23220 Airport Street LEGAL SERVICES Petersburg, VA 23803 DEALERS & SERVICES (804) 733-8644 Epstein, Sandler & Flora P.C. 413 W. York Street Maryland Hampton Roads Harley-Davidson/Buell * Norfolk, VA 23610 6450 George Washington Memorial Hwy 1-800-9-THE-LAW All American Harley-Davidson * Yorktown, VA 8126 Leonardtown Rd. (757) 872-7223 The Law Office of Tom McGrath * Hughesville, MD 20637 www.hrhd.com 1-800-321-8968 (888) 833-2REV www.motorcyclevirginia.com www.allamericanh-d.com Iron Core * 977 Chimney Hill Shopping Center Harley Davidson of Washington * Virginia Beach, VA 23452-3048 BIKER ACCESSORIES, 9407 Livingston Rd. (757) 631-8393 APPAREL, LEATHERS & GIFTS Ft. Washington, MD www.ironcorecustom.com (888) HDFEVER Virginia www.hdwash.com Outlanders * 4768 US Highway 211 West Diva Customs Harley-Davidson/Buell of Ocean City * Luray, VA 22835 (540) 743-2040 501 17th St. 10716 Ocean Gateway www.outlanders.ws Virginia Beach, VA 23451 Berlin, MD email: [email protected] (757) 428-DIVA (410) 629-1599 www.divacustoms.com www.hdoceancity.com Patriot Harley-Davidson * 9739 Lee Highway Fast Lane Biker Gear & Accessories * North Carolina Fairfax, VA 166 S. Rosemont Rd. Ste. G (703) 352-5400 Virginia Beach, VA 23452 Indian Motorcycle Charlotte * www.patriothd.com (757) 340-4446 110 Indian Walk Lowell, NC 28098 Revolutionary Harley-Davidson * Harley-Haven www.IndianMotorcycleCharlotte.com 1915 Pocahontas Trail Unit F-5 1920 Atlantic Ave Williamsburg, VA 23185 Virginia Beach, VA Virginia (757) 565-5122 (757) 425-2458 www.hrhd.com www.hrhd.com Bad Mo’s Custom Cycles Custom Building/Rebuilding Richmond Harley-Davidson * Renegade Classics * Fabricating & Painting 10441 Washington Highway 14575 Jefferson Davis Hwy Woodbridge, VA 22191 Virginia Beach, VA Glen Allen, VA 703-499-9533 (757) 237-2340 or (757) 685-9697 (804) 550-9280 www.richmondharley.com www.nova.rcosva.com Big Daddy'z Cycles * Shenandoah Harley-Davidson/Buell * WTF Leather Crafter * 2810 Geo. Wash. Mem. Hwy. 213 Rolling Thunder Lane Seats, Sewing, Patches, Leather work Hayes, VA 23072 (In Gloucester County) Staunton, VA 977 Chimney Hill Shopping Center (4 miles over the Coleman) (540) 213-7433 Virginia Beach, VA 23452-3048 804-642-3436 fax# 804-642-1461 www.shenhd.com (757) 439-2813 or (757) 582-4656 [email protected] www.bigdaddyzcycles.com * Pick up your FREE copy of Thunder Roads at these locations THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 32 BIKER FRIENDLY DIRECTORY

INSURANCE MOTORCYCLE RACING & EVENTS TATTOO STUDIOS

Clark Insurance Agency * Maryland International Raceway City Limits Tattoo & Piercing, Ltd. * 4709 Mason Rest Ct. www.mirdrag.com 119D Boulevard Richmond, VA Virginia Motorsports Park * Colonial Heights, VA 23834 (804) 271-1961 8018 Boydton Plank Rd. (804) 504-0600 Petersburg, VA 23803 www.citylimitstattoo.com GEICO Motorcycle (804) 862-3174 1-800-44-CYCLE www.virginiamotorsportspk.com Graffiti’s Ink Gallery – 3 locations * www.geico.com/cycle 2311 Hungary Rd. Dirt Drags at Slade’s Park Richmond, VA 23228 BARS & RESTAURANTS 111 Mount Ray Drive (804) 261-5689 Surry, VA 23883 www.graffitistattoo.com North Carolina Contact Joe Brookman (804) 221-3959 * 111-A W. Williamsburg Rd. * Barry’s Walnut Island Restaurant, Lodge, * Sandston, VA 23150 Sports Center & Marina MOTORCYCLE RENTALS (804) 328-6989 169 Walnut Island Blvd www.graffitistattoo.com Grandy, NC 27939 * (252) 453-4153 Virginia 7122 Mechanicsville Turnpike * www.walnutisland.com Mechanicsville, VA 23111 www.outerbanksbikeshow.com Eagle Rider Winchester * (804) 559-4658 140 Independence Dr www.graffitistattoo.com Virginia Winchester, VA 22602 (540) 662-9292 Baker Street * www.EagleRiderWinchester.com TRAILER SALES 1920 Centerville Turnpike #101 Virginia Beach, VA 23464 Harley-Davidson/Buell of Ocean City * Open Road Outfitters * (757) 479-4480 10716 Ocean Gateway 45763 Elmwood Court Berlin, MD Sterling, VA 20166 Boneshakers Saloon * (410) 629-1599 1(800) 541-6736 1297 General Booth Blvd www.hdoceancity.com [email protected] Virginia Beach, VA 23451 www.openroadoutfitters.com (757) 961-8382 Shenandoah Harley-Davidson/Buell * www.boneshakerssaloon.com 213 Rolling Thunder Lane Staunton, VA 24401 WEBSITES Damon & Company Sports Bar & Grill (540) 213-8026 7104 George Washington Mem. Hwy, Rt 17 North www.shenandoahhd.com Cobb Racing Customs Gloucester, VA (804) 693-7218 One Way Racing * www.damonsbar.com www.cobbcustoms-onewayracing.com FUN PLACES TO STAY Clay Cobb (248) 701-9146 & (248) 338-9146 Knuckleheads Roadhouse * 401 North Witchduck Road North Carolina Virginia Beach, VA 23462 (757) 644-6200 Barry’s Walnut Island Restaurant, Lodge, * Thunder www.knuckleheadsvb.com Sports Center & Marina 169 Walnut Island Blvd Lucille’s Southern Fused Cuisine * Grandy, NC 27939 Jams 1203 N. Laburnum Ave. (252) 453-4153 Richmond, VA 23223 www.walnutisland.com ******************************** www.Barrysbikerally.com (804) 644-1646 THE WHITE OAK BAND Specializing in Southern, Thunderbird Grill * Comfort Inn Oceanfront South Classic & Modern Rock 201 Battery Park Road 8031 Old Oregon Inlet Road The White Oak band is available Smithfield, VA 23430 Nags Head, NC for Rally's, Private And Corporate (757) 347-1747 (800) 334-3302 www.thunderbirdgrill.com functions as well as a variety of Rockin entertainment venues. For Booking Info Virginia West Virginia Call (540) 899-3620 or (540) 220-4825 Fat Boys Pork Palace * Rockahock Campgrounds * www.myspace.com/whiteoakband Specializing in hand Pulled Carolina Style BBQ 1428 Outpost Rd Foot of the mountain Rt 33 Brandywine WV Lanexa, VA 23089 ********************************* (304) 249-7025 www.Pendletoncounty.net (804) 966-2759 www.rockahock.com

* Pick up your FREE copy of Thunder Roads at these locations THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 33 Biker Pals

Courtesy of Graffiti’s Ink Gallery – Richmond, VA Tattoo of the Month

Robbie Kneivel Gets Thunder Roads Shouldn’t You?

To get Thunder Roads Magazine In The Mail Send Check Or Money Order For $39.00 ($3.25 - S & H per issue) Made Out To: Mid-Atlantic Thunder Roads 1920 Centerville Turnpike, Suite 117-270 Virginia Beach, VA 23464

NAME______

STREET______

CITY______ZIP______

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 34 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 35 News Bytes News Bytes

MOTORCYCLISTS REAP REWARDS FROM ECONOMIC erything from racetracks to distributors. Honda has already STIMULUS PACKAGE Motorcycling will reap some bene- informed dealers that their inventories of new and used fits from the historic two-year, $787 billion economic recov- youth motorcycles and ATVs will become worthless and ery and stimulus bill recently signed into law by President legally unsalable effective Feb. 10. “In fact, under the terms Barack Obama. Language in HR 1, the largest spending of the Act you cannot even display these models on your measure ever enacted by Congress, provides for a tax showroom floor, distribute brochures, or advertise them on credit for people buying new passenger cars and light-duty your website,” Honda told their dealer network. According to trucks, and now thanks to eleventh hour lobbying efforts by motorcycle and ATV industry sources, most motorcycle and motorcycle groups and manufacturers, federal tax relief will ATV components are compliant with the CPSIA’s lead limits, extend to purchasers of new motorcycles as well. Section but some components unavoidably contain small quanti- 1008 of the legislation includes motorcycles as “qualified ties of lead in excess of the CPSIA’s limits. However, the vehicles”, and individuals purchasing a new motorcycle will nature and location of these components suggests a very be allowed to deduct the sales and excise taxes on their minimal exposure risk. Industry reps say the lead used in 2009 tax returns. Four senators successfully lobbied for motorcycles and ATVs is embedded in alloys but is not eas- including motorcycles in the compromise measure: Bob ily transferred to humans through typical use, the way lead Casey, D-Pa.; Christopher Bond, R-Mo., Russell Feingold, in paint or infant toys would be. Motorcycle riders, activists D-Wis., and Herb Kohl, D-Wis. “The issues of consumer and enthusiasts are requested to contact their Congres- confidence and tight credit markets have not evaded mo- sional representatives and the Consumer Product Safety torcycle dealers,” the four senators wrote to congressional Commission (CPSC) and ask them to exclude youth model leaders who put the finishing touches on the stimulus bill. off-highway vehicles from the final rule governing the law. “The effect of the downturn not only impacts the dealers - it has hurt manufacturers as well.” Expansion of the tax credit SALES OF DUAL PURPOSE MOTORCYCLES AND should attract more motorcycle buyers, Feingold said in a SCOOTERS OUTPACED CRUISERS AND SPORTBIKES joint press release with Kohl. To be eligible for this “above While cruisers and sportbikes were wondering the con- the line” tax deduction, you must make less than $125,000 sumer love went, dual-purpose motorcycles were riding off ($250,000 for those filing jointly) and purchase a new bike the showroom floors in 2008 according to tentative numbers in 2009 for up to $49,500. from the Motorcycle Industry Council. Dual-purpose bikes as well as scooters were the brightest spots in last year’s GET THE LEAD OUT With Congress saying “get the lead MIC Retail Sales Report, which reveals percentage growth out,” motorcycle manufacturers and local businesses are or decreases among all categories of bikes last year. Scoot- wondering if common sense gets chucked along with it. er sales through December were up 41.5 percent compared Retailers across the country are yanking shoes, toys and to all of 2007. Dual-purpose bike sales jumped 22.8 percent last year for the major brands tracked. No other categories any goods marketed to children from shelves to comply with in the report showed an increase. “Overall, motorcycle sales a strict lead law enacted nearly unanimously by Congress. were down 7.2 percent, not nearly as sharp a decline as The Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act, which many other consumer products in today’s economy,” said went into effect February 10, 2009 is meant to protect MIC President Tim Buche. “We’ll look at 2008 as a big year children from lead-laden products, but unintended conse- for scooters, dual-purpose bikes and small-displacement quences of the new legislation are decimating the industry motorcycles. If it was smart-sized, offered great value and as thousands of motorcycle and recreation vehicle retailers high fuel mileage, then chances are it was a sales success.” across the country scramble to obey the federal law: all of The MIC Retail Sales Report compiles U.S. sales informa- them had to cease selling small off-road motorcycles and tion every month from 12 leading motorcycle distributors: ATVs designed for kids, because according to a provision BMW, Can-Am, Ducati, Harley-Davidson/Buell, Honda, Ka- of the Act the machines are dangerous…not because a wasaki, KTM, the Piaggio Group, Victory, Suzuki, Triumph child might have an accident on the diminutive machines, and Yamaha. It provides an indicator of market trends. but because if a child develops an appetite for the vehicle’s Among these 12 Retail Sales Report brands, the on-high- brakes or battery terminals and decides to nibble on the way segment slipped by just 5.6 percent last year. This in- ATV or motorbike, lead poisoning may result. The ban cludes cruisers, sport bikes, touring bikes and traditional or standard motorcycles. The off-highway market dropped 30 encompasses some 19 models from just Yamaha, Honda, percent among six leading brands. As it seemed to several Kawasaki and Suzuki. The economic impact of the CPSC’s times in the past, a rise in gas prices may have pumped up ruling will be substantial for both dealers and manufacturers sales of smaller, more economical motorcycles. Preliminary in an already weakened economy. The regulation takes an findings from the 2008 MIC Owner Survey suggest that estimated $100 million worth of inventory off the sales floors Americans are looking at motorcycles more for transporta- of some 13,000 dealers immediately. It also impinges on tion, not only recreation. manufacturers, makers of aftermarket equipment and ev- THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 36 News Bytes News Bytes

CONSUMER REPORTS TESTS MOTORCYCLES Fueled The bill will increase the penalties imposed for Failing to by painfully high gasoline prices, 2008 saw many consum- Yield the Right of Way. The current penalties for Failure ers looking for new alternatives to big-bucks fill-ups at the to Yield is a fine of $25.00 to $50.00 no matter the sever- pump. With rising consumer interest in lower-priced two- ity of the accident. Careless driving which also falls under wheelers that sip rather than guzzle gas and thousands the Failure to Yield Statutes is only a $125.00 fine! HB of new riders on the road, Consumer Reports has tested 290 would increase the penalties to $200.00 or 30 day small motor scooters and motorcycles for the first time suspension of driver’s license causing NO great bodily since 1981. “When fuel prices crossed the $4.00 per gallon harm or death. Great Bodily harm would hold a penalty of mark, some consumers shifted gears and two wheels be- $500.00 or 30 day suspension of driver’s license. Failing came a cost-saving alternative,” said Rik Paul, automotive to Yield causing Death would hold a penalty of $1000.00 editor, Consumer Reports. “And, despite current low gas or 6 months suspension of driver’s license. HB 290 is now costs, interest in scooters and motorcycles may continue headed to the Transportation and Public Works Committee, to increase, especially in urban areas where parking space and concerned riders are being asked by the New Mexico is at a premium.” Consumer Reports tested a total of eight Motorcyclists Rights Organization, ABATE and the Confed- fuel-sipping, small-displacement motorcycle and scooter eration of Clubs to contact their legislators seeking support models. Like Consumer Reports in-depth auto testing for the proposed ROW legislation. Your state rep can be process, scooters and motorcycles were subjected to an contacted by calling the switchboard at (505) 986-4300. extensive sequence of standardized tests to determine their performance in categories such as acceleration, braking, WEIRD NEWS: MOTORCYCLE SURVEILANCE SYSTEM fuel economy, noise/vibration, top speed and comfort. The INSTALLED IN U.K. A new surveillance system installed full report is available in the March 2009 issue of Consumer on eight routes in Derbyshire, England designed to track Reports and online at www.ConsumerReports.org. movements of motorcyclists on the roads will be operational by Easter. The technology can tell motorcycles apart from MAKING NOISE ABOUT NOISE As states like New York other vehicles, measure their speeds and will be able to and New Hampshire wrestle with anti-noise legislation that read number plates under plans. Data such as the routes would prohibit modifications to factory-installed exhaust taken by individual motorcyclists along with time and date systems, the Motorcycle Industry Council is seeking to will be collected and kept even if they have committed no postpone further legislative action pending their develop- offense. The project has prompted civil rights groups to ment of a new sound test. In comments to the N.H. House express grave concerns about the potential for invasion Transportation Committee, the MIC stated that they and the of motorcyclists’ privacy. Speed camera bosses behind Society of Automotive Engineers are finalizing a new sta- the scheme have named it the “motorcycle data project” tionary sound test, SAE J2825, which will provide a quick, and the equipment a “motorcycle detection system”. It will easy, economical, and science-based tool for accurately scrutinize movements of motorcyclists in particular and be identifying motorcycles with excessively noisy exhaust sys- switched on to coincide with the start of the riding season tems. “Our goal is to provide a consistent tool nationwide for in April, they say. The Derby and Derbyshire Road Safety identifying excessively loud exhaust systems without failing Partnership said the aim was to “gather intelligence” to those that pass the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency “prevent motorcycle casualties” through measures such as federal sound limit,” said Pamela Amette, vice president of speed warning signs, extra police patrols and safer road- the MIC. “This sound test will effectively achieve the sound side barriers. But Isabella Sankey, Director of Policy for the control goals of New Hampshire, and other states and mu- civil rights group Liberty, said: “The road to massive-scale nicipalities, and more so than some of the proposed legisla- real-time surveillance is paved with good intentions. We tion currently being considered. On a national level, it will have no problem with ANPR being used to locate vehicles eliminate a lot of the confusion and frustration for motorcy- whose owners the police firmly suspect of having commit- clists when they ride through different jurisdictions.” Am- ted an offence but it shouldn’t be used as a tool of mass ette said that California, numerous local jurisdictions, and surveillance.” Canada have expressed interest in the new test that was developed through extensive sound testing during 2007. QUOTABLE QUOTE: “The natural progress of things is for liberty to yield and government to gain ground.” ROW BILL FILED IN NEW MEXICO A Failure to Yield the Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826), American philosopher & Right of Way bill has been introduced in New Mexico by statesman, 3rd U.S. President State Representative Rick Miera, a longtime motorcyclists’ rights advocate and member of the National Coalition of Motorcyclists Legislative Task Force (NCOM-LTF). THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 37 BACK In The Day

REMEMBER!! A government big enough to give you everything you want is a government big enough to take away everything you have. President Gerald Ford -1974

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 38 Many people do not realize that Christian author leave God behind. Allow yourself to be open to the C.S. Lewis—probably best known by most people experiences that He is offering you. When you let Christ for his Chronicles of Narnia books, two of which be a part of your life, the ride will be better than you can have become major Hollywood movies—was an ever imagine. Give it a try, and—like C.S. Lewis—see atheist when he began teaching at Oxford in 1925. just how much it will change your life. The experiences of World War I and the death of his mother when he was only nine-years-old were just Always and All Ways in Christ two of the many things that shattered his faith early < )))>< Rick ‘Preacher’ Saunders on in life. Interestingly, of the many things that turned his heart to God, one of them involved a motorcycle. Lewis befriended J.R.R. Tolkien (author of the ‘Lord of the Rings’ novels), and the two often discussed religion. Lewis eventually became a theist: believing that there was a God, but not yet fully accepting Christianity; though he was growing ever closer as he continued to study and research the subject. Then came a fateful ride in the sidecar of his brother’s motorcycle in 1931. They set out on a ride to the Whipsnade Zoo. No one knows for certain what was said, or what transpired on that ride; but Lewis later wrote: ““When we set out I did not believe that Jesus is the Son of God, and when we reached the zoo I did.” I would love to have been a part of that ride to see how that revelation came about. I find it very interesting that one of the greatest Christian authors of the twentieth century found PREACHER RICK Christ while on a motorcycle (even if it was in a side Preacher Rick is an ordained minister serving as Pasto- car). If you think about it, that shouldn’t come as ral Counselor and staff member at First Baptist Church much of a surprise: It is just too easy to experience of Woodbridge, VA. He is a past president and current chaplain of the Northern VA Christian Riders, chapter 348 God while riding in the wind on two wheels while of the Christian Motorcyclists Association, and has served becoming a part of His creation out there on the as a chaplain for Truckers Christian Chapel Ministries. He is a graduate of Andersonville Theological Seminary and open road. Unfortunately, it is just as easy to ignore the Institute of Theology and Christian Therapy, and is a that same experience. member of the American Association of Christian Coun- selors and American Association of Christian Therapists. While riding along the highways and byways He lives in Dale City, VA with his wife Teresa and they enjoying the freedom, the wind in your face, and ride a 1998 95th Anniversary Road King Classic. He works full-time as a Computer Operations Supervisor for everything else that comes with the ride, don’t Inova Health System.

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 39 “Trike Lesson #1: The conversion you choose is only as good as the installer...”

The Big Dream, powered by a 502 V-8 Chevy Engine

Ask any trike owner and they’ll tell you. Whether you’re triking your bike or buying a turnkey trike, your satisfaction depends more on the installer than the trike kit. That’s why a quality installation and your happiness with the results are our only focus at Open Road. Check us out for yourself. Visit our shop. Review our work. Try our FREE DEMO rides. Talk to our customers. Check out our website or give us a ring. You’ll soon learn why we are the most trusted, highest- rated trike installer in the mid-Atlantic.

45763 Elmwood Court Sterling, Virginia 20166 www.openroadoutfitters.com 1-800-541-6736

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 40