thunder roads virginia magazine - november '08

1920 Centerville Turnpike, Suite 117-270 Virginia Beach, VA 23464

Office phone: (757) 831-2264 Email:[email protected]

Website: www.thunderroads-virginia.com

OWNER / EDITOR SALES:

Kelly Werrell

Special Thanks to: Warren Ells - our wonderfully talented layout guy who designs our pages & puts all the pieces together for us each month, Rod The Magnificent - for his killer ad designs & WCFStudios.com, our webmaster, who keeps our site rockin on the web. Also many thanks to all of our readers, advertisers & those of you out there that spread the word or pass a magazine to a

friend who’s never heard of us before - You ALL are what keeps the Thunder rolling through the Mid-Atlantic!

Mid-Atlantic Thunder Roads

Thunder Roads CrewROAD CREW

WebmasterWilliam C. Frohmiller www.WCFStudios.com

Layout & DesignWarren Ells – Art Director Thunder Pub

Rod the Magificent – Ad Design

On Eagles WingsReverend Rock Preacher Rick

Sound CheckBzGAL, Tigger & Apehanger

Laurie Schober

Tech TipsAaron Johnson [email protected]

Writers/PhotographersBeth AlbertBo Albert

Cathy Clare (BZgal)Chris Rockhill (Tigger)

Cindy MeaseDave SuttonJeff FreelandKelly Werrell

Linda BarbozaTim WilmothRandy KidderRicky Derby

Wild BillWilliam Frohmiller

* All articles & pictures within Thunder Roads are contributed by our Crew or by freelance writers & photographers.

CREW POSITIONS AVAILABLE!!!Looking for additional crew members in the North/

Northeastern VA (including Orange, Fredericksburg, Front Royal & Winchester), DC & Maryland.

Contact Beth Albert for more info (804) 526-1229 or [email protected]

SALES CREWFor information about advertising in Thunder

Roads visit the Advertising page of our website www.thunderroads-virginia.com or contact Beth Albert, Sales/Assistant Editor at (804) 536-1299,

[email protected]

You can also contact one of our Sales/Correspondents within your neck of the woods:

North/Northeastern VA (including Orange, Fredericksburg, Front Royal & Winchester),

West/Northwestern VA (including Harrisonburg, Charlottesville, Staunton, Waynesboro & Lexington)

DC, & Maryland

Beth Albert (804) 536-1299 [email protected]

Central VA (inc. Richmond, Ashland, Petersburg, Hopewell, Colonial Heights & Mechanicsville)

William Day “Wild Bill” (804) [email protected]

East/Southeastern VA (including South Hill, Emporia, Hampton Roads, Williamsburg, the

Peninsula & the Eastern Shore)

Linda Barboza (757) 735-8737 [email protected]

William C. Frohmiller (757) [email protected]

South/Southwestern VA (including Lynchburg, Danville, Roanoke, Blacksburg, Christiansburg,

Radford, Wytheville & Abingdon)

Jeff Freeland (540) [email protected]

NATIONAL FOUNDERSToni McCoy Shearon & Brian Shearon

1421 Chapmansboro RoadChapmansboro, TN 37035

Corporate Office: 615-792-0040 Fax: 615-792-7580

e-mail: [email protected]

The holidays are upon us once again – time for breaking out those winter jackets & gloves, decorating our homes, scents of goodies baking in the oven, arranging travel for long awaited visits with friends & family, Christmas shopping, enjoying cozy evenings in front of a warm crackling fire and the list goes on. This is normally such a wonderful time of the year when everyone seems to be full of smiles & laughter. For many people, this holiday season will not be all smiles & there will be very little laughter because of the impact that the economy has had on them. So many people & their families, including many of our biking friends, are struggling & being hit hard in this crunch too. Amazingly, they continue to open their wallets & their hearts to help others, even though they themselves could use a little help also. Take a look around you & see if there’s anything you can do to give a little of yourself to someone who may need it. Even though we all love to get gifts, the gift of giving, in itself, is one of the most rewarding & uplifting feelings there are.

October was a special “Thank You” month to all of our bikers for everything they do to help other people. This month, our focus broadens to our family, friends & our life in general. Most of us gather together to celebrate Thanksgiving as a way to say thanks for everyone & everything in our lives. It’s a good thing to do everyday of the year. I still haven’t quite figured out something about this delectable day that comes on the last Thursday of November each year… A typical Thanksgiving day consists of enjoying feasts fit for any king or queen, watching football games & holiday parades. The eating usually continues well after the main meal is over with scrumptious pies & desserts & more helpings of leftover ham, turkey etc.. Do you ever wonder why we do this to ourselves, gorging on food upon more food?? It’s crazy but it happens like this every year. It’s almost like we take this one day out of the year (usually not eating any breakfast or lunch the day of the feast) & when dinner comes out it’s like we’re going for a world’s record to see just how much our bellies will hold – it’s nuts but millions of people do this every Thanksgiving. After giving thanks for my life, family & friends, I suppose I should start throwing in an extra thanks that I remembered to grab some Pepto Bismol when I was at the grocery store for this mega meal….I usually can’t even move afterwards & am so ready for a good nap!

We hope that you all enjoy a beautiful month & wish you safe travels to & from wherever you may be heading for your celebrations.

From all of our family here at Thunder Roads to all of our friends out there on the road & their families – we wish you all the best for a very Happy Thanksgiving.

May Peace, Love & Happiness be in all your days....see ya next month!

Kellyp.s. don’t forget the Pepto!

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NO PART OF ITS CONTENT MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT 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 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.

LETTER FROM THE EDITORCONTENTS

Calendar Of Events............................................4

Proud To Be An American..............................8

Hot Shots..............................................................16

KISS.....................................................................19

Clubs & Organizations..................................33

The Joker’s Wild..............................................36

Biker Friendly Directory..............................40

NCOM News Bytes..........................................43

On Eagle’s Wings.............................................47

Helmet Laws By State

IMPORTANT NOTICE – The Fall & Winter months are a great time to hold events!!! Many people think that just because the calendar says November, December & January & February, they can’t hold a run, event or even a “Biker Night” for your charities. There isn’t much going on throughout these months & you might be pleasantly surprised how many riders are looking for something to do during the cooler months of the year. LIST YOUR EVENTS FOR 2009! You can now list your event directly on our website www.thunderroads-virginia.com . Our deadlines are the 15th of each month to have it appear in print for the following month’s issue. It’s never too early to send them in so as soon as you have all of your info…send it on!

NOVEMBER 2008Nov 1st Mid-Atlantic Toy Run – Ft Washington, MD 6th Annual Toy Run for Disadvantaged children and families for St Ann's Infant & Maternity Home. Minimum Donation: $20 and unwrapped toy or gift certificate of equal value or bicycle, helmet, educational games, backpacks, area rugs, booster seats, pull-ups, diapers (sizes 4,5,6), baby wipes, baby shampoo, lotion/oil, Aveeno products, deodorant, playstation, paint & art supplies, toothpaste, toothbrushes, DVD for toddlers, personal CD's folders and school supplies. Please no used clothing or stuffed animals. Free food, 50/50 raffle, Chubbzy the Clown for the kids. Bring your family. 37 mile parade to deliver items to the kids. Sponsored by Harley Davidson of Washington & Bikers With Heart Foundation. 301-248-1200 or 301-893-2900. [email protected]. www.fireupthundrout.com

Nov 2nd Daylight Savings Time Ends – Fall Back! Don’t forget to set your clocks back 1 hour.

Nov 2nd Hampton Roads Ladies of Harley/ US Marine Corps Reserve 10th Annual Toys for Tots Ride-Newport News, Va Come join us for our 10th annual Toys for Tots ride. This is a police escorted ride lead by Santa himself, with approximately 600 motorcycles of all types joining in to bring some happiness to needy children each Christmas. Registration begins at 11am with the first 500 registrants receiving a free ride pin. Registration fee is a new unwrapped toy. We will depart from the Big Kmart on Old Orianna Road at 1pm and the ride will end at Hampton Roads Harley Davidson. The store will be open with specials, food vendors and live music. For information log on to HRHD.com, email [email protected], [email protected] or call Hampton Roads Harley Davidson at 757-872-7223.

Nov 2nd Relay For Life Poker Run - Virginia Beach, VA Sponsored by Friends Walking For Friends Virginia Beach, VA. Registration at Knuckleheads Roadhouse 401 N Witchduck Road 9-11:30 AM. Rider $10/Passenger $5/Extra Hand $5. Ride ends back at Knuckleheads with a Live Band and Jewelry Show from Noon to 3 and Live Auction and 50/50 drawing at 3 PM. All proceeds go to the American Cancer Society Relay For Life. For more info contact Bob or Sharon at 486-7572 or email [email protected] Nov 4th ELECTION DAY 2008For those rolling out to cast your vote, don’t forget your voter registration cards & picture ID.

Nov 8th Honor and Remember “Veterans Ride” – Chesapeake, VA To the VA Hospital in Hampton, VA. Everyone Welcome To Participate In Ride To Support Disabled Veterans. Ride Your Motorcycles * Drive Your Cars &Trucks. Please mark your calendars & join us for a fun & worthwhile ride to benefit our Disabled Veterans at the Veterans Hospital In Hampton Virginia. Registration 8:30 to 10:30AM (Coffee & Doughnuts). At American Legion Post 280 in Chesapeake, (Intersection of Kempsville Rd & Battlefield Blvd). Registration Fee: FREE (Bring Donations Please), (Our hospitalized Veterans need books, magazines, small personalized toiletries, puzzles, etc.). Donation Ceremony & Raffle Drawing at 12:30PM. At The Veterans Hospital in Hampton Virginia (100 Emancipation Drive, Hampton, VA 23667). Raffle Prizes and 50/50 drawing Please contact Karen at 410-8552 or Don at 285-6672 for more info. Email: [email protected]. HonorandRemember.org is a 501(c)(3) non profit organization www..HonorandRemember.org. Please sign the petition and fly the flag! Club/Group Participation Trophy. Event Sponsor - FRA American Legion Post 280/Event Host

Nov 9th 17th Annual Vets Run – Newport News, VA Sponsored by ABATE of VA. Police Escort Ride from the YMCA 7827 Warwick Blvd , Newport News, VA. to Hampton Veterans Hospital. Registration is in the parking lot of YMCA from 10:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Ride leaves at 1:00 p.m. sharp. $10.00 donation all proceeds benefit hospital patients directly. Food, music and bike show at ride end. Contact Gene Spare, (757) 903-6541, 1st-Capitol-abate.org, [email protected]

Nov 11th Veterans Day Nov 14th Holiday Laps – Danville, VA Holiday Laps, VIRginia International Raceway’s popular charity fund-raising event, arrives on Friday, November 14, a couple of weeks early for 2008. As always, fans and guests are allowed to drive the historic 3.27-mile road course for a donation of $25 in new toys, non-perishable foods or cash. This year’s Holiday Laps kicks off the annual charity drive in support of the Salvation Army by WBTM-AM and WAKG-FM. 2007’s event took in a total of $12,075, including on-air auctions for various items. For their $25 donation, or the equivalent in non-perishable food items or new toys, drivers of any safe road car, truck, van OR MOTORCYLE (must have full safety gear) can drive VIR and at least partially experience the thrill of driving on the same track where some of the world’s best race drivers and motorcycle riders compete all year long. Donors in each of the past six years have helped others while experiencing a thrill to last a lifetime. VIR’s Oak Tree Tavern, the restaurant in the 1840s Plantation Club House, will be open to the public that evening, as it is every week, Thursday through Sunday. The Club House features fun dining in the full-service restaurant and the Irish-style Connie’s Pub. Reservations are accepted but not required by calling 434.822.7700, ext. 330. The auctions by WAKG and WBTM include prizes consisting of race weekend tickets and nights in the Lodge at VIR, with proceeds from the sales benefiting the charities. For more info visit www.virclub.com.

Nov 15th Golden Corral’s First Annual DAV Poker Run – Chesapeake, VA (ALL VEHICLES WELCOME) Registration begins at 9:00 AM. First vehicle out at 10:00 AM. Event over at 3:00 PM. Awards at 5:00 PM. $25 per vehicle. $10 extra with passenger. Includes buffet ticket, Tee Shirt & raffle ticket. Free water & snacks at each stop. Prizes for Poker hands based on number of vehicles. 400 or more vehicles: $1,000; 300–399 vehicles $500; 200–299 vehicles $250; 0-199 vehicles $150. RAFFLES * GREAT GIVEAWAYS * 50/50. PLENTY OF MUSIC, FOOD & FUN GOING ON ALL DAY! RIDE STARTS AND ENDS AT: GOLDEN CORRAL, 101 VOLVO PARKWAY, CHESAPEAKE, VA. FOR FURTHER INFO PLEASE CALL THE RESTAURANT AT (757)549-2819.

Nov 15th Ride for the Vets Dice Run – Virginia Beach, VA Benefiting the Hampton Veteran's Hospital. Vets helping Vets. Registration from 0900 – 1200 (9am – 12 noon). At Clutch 1485 General Booth Blvd, Virginia Beach, Va. 23454.

List your event free @ www.thunderroads-virginia.com

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE �

Last Roller at 3:00pm. Event contact: [email protected] or Strap, (757)277-2692, [email protected]

Nov 23rd Pat Rogers Speedway Harley-Davidson 6th Annual Toy Run – Concord, NC Sponsored by Pat Rogers Speedway Harley-Davidson. Proceeds presented to Cooperative Christian Ministries benefiting The Empty Stocking Fund. Rain or Shine. Door Prizes, Free Food, Raffles, Entertainment, Auction. Staging Kannapolis Intimidators Stadium 10:00 am. (I-85 N. Exit 63, Left on Lane St., 0.4 miles on Right). Leave Stadium 1:00 PM - Police escort thru Cabarrus County to Pat Rogers Speedway Harley-Davidson Dealership. Must bring new, unwrapped toy to participate and be eligible for door prizes. 707-979-RIDE (7433) www.speedwayharley-davidson.com

Nov 27th Thanksgiving – Happy Turkey Day!

DECEMBER 2008Dec 7th Southern Riders M/C of Va.& NC. Annual Christmas Run – Virginia Beach, VA To benefit St.Mary's Home for Disabled Children. Sunday Dec.7th.Starting @ Oceana Cycles on Jack Rabbit Rd. in Va.Beach and ending @ Crazy Wing Cantina off Greenbrier Pkwy, Chesapeake. Cost is one new toy or $10. Sign-in is @ 10:00am Depart @ 11:00am.For more info call 757-237-1441.

Dec 14th 2nd Annual Poquoson Toys For Tots Motorcycle Parade – Poquoson, VA The start location will be at the Poquoson Police Dept. located at 774 Poquoson Avenue, Poquoson, VA. Registration will begin at 10:30AM with the police-escorted motorcycle parade leaving at 1:00PM. Registration fee is one new unwrapped toy! Santa Claus will be the Official Parade Master and will be accompanied by a Marine Corp Honor Guard that will lead us to the Marine Corp Reserve Drop-off Center located on Aluminum Avenue in Hampton, VA. We will also sponsor a "SPECIAL" Toy Collection and Donation for little one-year Maggie Smith, who needs a liver transplant to survive. So bring an extra new unwrapped toy for little Maggie and make a small donation to help cover the cost of her liver transplant. For additional information, please contact Dale Simmons at (757) 880-3806 or Mark Boesen at (757) 570-2209.

Dec 25th Christmas – Merry Christmas to all & to all a good ride!Dec 31st - NEW YEAR’S EVE – Countdown to 2009! We want to see all of you out on the road

in 2009 so have a good time & drink responsibly. If you’re planning on really throwin’ down, be sure you’ve got a designated driver. Friends don’t let friends drink & ride (or drive)…take their keys & tell them you love ‘em! Have fun & stay safe!

JANUARY 2009Jan 1st – HAPPY NEW YEAR! We wish you all the best in 2009 – it’s going to be a great year!

Jan 3rd – 4th Mid-Atlantic Motorcycle Spectacular – Chantilly, VA Cycle Promotions USA once again comes to Dulles Expo Center with a great family friendly event, featuring a Motorcycle Show from custom manufacturers, great paint schemes and proud owners of their "ride." We are excited to announce another great year of incredible bike show builders including 'Super Builders' Brad Ruel, Craig Whitford, Knievel Custom Choppers, and East Side Custom Choppers, just to name a few! We encourage you to come out and see some of the industry's leading vendors with an excellent selection of motorcycle attire, motorcycle theme jewelry and motorcycle parts and accessories. While attending, you are invited to enjoy great entertainment such as, live music There's the People's Choice Tattoo Contest, and vendor supported fashion shows with professional models and, after last years fun and successful launch, our very own Ms. CyclePro USA Contest! We look forward to seeing you and your family at our show! This is definitely a show that can't be missed!! Jan 3rd 11am-6pm; Jan 4th 10am-5pm. Admission: Adult Ticket: $15.00. Dulles Expo Center, 4368 Chantilly Shopping Center, Chantilly, VA 20153, 703-378-0910. Visit www.cycleprousa.com for more details. Jan 9th – 11th 28th Annual Cycle World International Motorcycle Show – Washington, D.C. Presented by Toyota Washington D.C., Washington Convention Center 801 Mount Vernon Place Washington, D.C. 20001. Be among the first to experience the latest in motorcycling and powersports. Hundreds of new 2009 models from all the major manufacturers, the latest in gear and accessories, plus entertainment, amazing features, family fun and more! Visit our website, www.motorcycleshows.com, for all the details! 800-331-5706 GET YOUR DISCOUNT TICKETS ONLINE! – COUPON CODE: THUNDERFEBRUARY 2009Feb 6th – 8th Timonium Motorcycle Show – Timonium, MD Presented by American Recreational

Promotions. Every foreign and domestic motorcycle manufacturer available in USA on display...huge custom and antique bike show...100's of exhibits covering everything in motorcycling. Attendees will be able to meet several nationally known bike builders featured on Discovery Channel's "Biker Build-Off" and Speed Channel's "Two Wheel Tuesday" Series, like Michele Smith all three days. Maryland State Fairgrounds - 2200 York Road, Timonium, MD., 21093, Timonium, Maryland - Opens 10am each day, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, February 6-8, 2009. Admission for Adults: $15.00, children 10-15 years $5.00 and under 10 are free with paying adult. Go to www.cycleshow.net to print out $5.00 off admission discount coupons, good on adult admission only. For more info call, 410-561-7323, www.cycleshow.net or [email protected].

Feb 14th – 15th 4th Annual Northeast Motorcycle Expo – Fredericksburg, VA Fredericksburg Expo Center, 2371 Carl D Silver Parkway, Fredericksburg, VA. Saturday 10AM to 8PM and Sunday 10AM to 5PM. All brand Motorcycle show featuring the “Best of Northeast” Custom Bike Show; entertainment for kids; vendors and motorcycle dealers showcasing the latest models, biker accessories and fashions, custom bike builders and much more. Admission tickets are $15.00 per person, children 6 to 12 years old $7.00 per child and children 5 years old and under free. Directions: Exit # 130B off Route 95. For further information contact 877-BikeXpo (877-245-3976) or www.kevmarv.com. A Kev-Marv Production.

MARCH 2009Mar 21st – 22nd Bikes & Ink 2009 – Richmond, VA Cycle Promotions USA comes to The Show Place with a great family friendly event, featuring a Motorcycle Show from custom manufacturers, great paint schemes and proud owners of their "ride." We are excited to announce another great year of incredible bike show builders including 'Super Builders' Brad Ruel, Craig Whitford, Knievel Custom Choppers, and East Side Custom Choppers, just to name a few! We encourage you to come out and see some of the industry's leading vendors with an excellent selection of motorcycle attire, motorcycle theme jewelry and motorcycle parts and accessories. While attending, you are invited to enjoy great entertainment such as, music There's the People's Choice Tattoo Contest, and vendor supported fashion shows with professional models and, after last years fun and successful launch, our very own Ms. CyclePro USA Contest! We look forward to seeing you and your family at our show! This is definitely a show that can't be missed! March 21st 11am-6pm; March 22nd 10am-5pm. Admission: Adult Ticket: $15.00. The Show Place, 3000 Mechanicsville Pike, Richmond, VA 23223, 804-255-8877 Visit www.cycleprousa.com for more details.

List your event free @ www.thunderroads-virginia.com


Educate Yourself Before Taking Your Bike to a Shop

Ever wonder what you should look for when selecting a shop to work on your bike? Is it reputable? Is the staff com-petent? Do they back their work? Other considerations have to do with your rights as well as the rights and respon-sibilities of the shop under Virginia law. This article will at-tempt to assist you with many of these issues so that when you are looking for a shop you will be prepared. First we will focus on what to look for when selecting a shop, then we will discuss some of the legal rights and duties custom-ers and shops have under Virginia law.

There are all types of indicators as to the quality and efficiency of the facility you’re looking into; in the next few paragraphs let’s hit some high points.

First and foremost is the shop’s reputation. The riding community is a fairly small, tight knit group, and if the word on the street is negative, then most likely your experience will be also. Ask around; people you know that ride similar bikes to you can be the best resource you have.

What’s your first impression? When you walk into the shop do you get a warm fuzzy feeling, or does the hair on the back of your neck stand up? If you get a bad feeling when you walk in pay attention. Once you’ve contracted for work, you are married to them for the duration of the repairs and warranty period. Ignoring a bad first impression can cause excessive heartache and perhaps a bike-less riding season. No one wants to spend a summer that way.

Turnover is another possible issue. There are two types of turnover: employees and service work. If every time you go in and there are new faces throughout the place, there is something going on. I want the person working on my bike to be in a good mood, not fed up with the boss, looking for another job, and generally in a position where they don’t care about the quality of the work, or don’t have to worry about the job coming back because they’re not going to be there to deal with it. The other turnover exhibits itself in the shop. Are the same bikes in the shop for repair constantly? If they don’t belong to the owners or employees they should leave at some point. If the talent in the shop isn’t up to snuff then the technicians will find themselves stumped by certain jobs and those bikes will take root there.

The above are a few things to look for. Others are clean-liness, organization, and attitude. All factors that will give you some insight as to what you can expect. This is not a foolproof system however. Therefore, it is also important to know what your legal rights are as well. That means what you are entitled to upfront and after the work is complete.

Generally, the laws governing your rights as a customer at any automobile repair facility (a bike shop falls under that designation) are set forth in Virginia’s Automobile Repair Facilities Act, the pertinent parts of which are found in sec-tions 59.1-207.1 through 59.1-207.6 of the Code of Virginia.

First, you are entitled, upon request, to a written estimate prior to the commencement of any repair work on your bike so long as that repair work will cost you more than $25.00. The shop must provide you with the estimated cost of labor,

the estimated cost of parts, a description of the work as described or authorized by you, and an estimated comple-tion time. However, a shop has no obligation under the law to provide such an estimate before 10:00 a.m. or after 4:00 p.m. No repair work charge may exceed the written estimate by more than 10% unless the additional work has been authorized by you. Keep in mind that the shop may charge you a reasonable fee for the estimate so long as the fee is disclosed to you at the time you request an estimate. The disclosure must be either in writing, or by a sign “con-spicuously posted” at the entrance of the shop. It is always best to ask upfront just to be safe. As with any situation, be reasonable. Delays occur sometimes through no fault of the shop. In fact, Virginia law states that a shop is not liable for a breach of the written estimated completion time if the delay is caused by an Act of God, an unexpected shortage of labor or parts, or other causes beyond the control of the shop. The bottom line is, be reasonable with the shop if they are being reasonable with you.

You also have the right to retain possession of pre-placed parts. Virginia law states that the shop shall, at the time the repair work I authorized, return to you any parts which are removed from your bike. The exception is when the part is to be returned to the manufacturer or distributor under a warranty agreement, trade-in agreement, or core charge agreement for a reconditioned part. If you wish to retain parts subject to a trade-in agreement or core charge agree-ment then the shop may charge you a fee in the amount they would have received. This can be avoided however by exercising your right to inspect any parts removed from your bike. Even if you refuse to take custody of the parts, you have the right to inspect any parts removed from your bike and replaced in the process of repair.

Virginia law also requires a shop to provide you a writ-ten invoice of all work performed on your bike. The invoice must clearly indicate the work performed and the charges for parts and labor separately. It must also identify those parts provided under warranty and those not under warran-ty. It must also identify those parts, if any, which are used, rebuilt or reconditioned. The exception to this law is that if the shop has advertised a certain job on a single price basis, such as an oil change for $15.00, they do not have to provide such an invoice. Otherwise, they must provide one.

While the above is not a complete list of your rights, it hits the important matters to you as a consumer. If you go to a shop and find that it does not abide by the above practices, it is not a place you want to leave your bike. As usual, if you have any questions or comments concerning anything in this article, please feel free to contact us.

Matt DanielsonJim CannonTom McGrath’s Motorcycle Law [email protected]@tommcgrathlaw.com


By Tim Wilmoth

The thunder really rolled into cen-tral Va. when the “AHDRA” (All Harley Drag Racing Association ) showed up for their annual “Jim McClure Nationals” at the Virginia Motorsports Park in Dinwiddie county at the Virginia Motorsports Park. The event was named to

honor Williamsburg’s own Jim McClure, a drag racing leg-end and pioneer in the sport. Jim was a real competitor and always on the leading edge of the research and develop-ment that’s required to stay one step ahead of your compe-tition (yes it is rocket science!). That drive to be the fastest, enabled him to carry the #1 Top Fuel Champion Plate 19 times and earned him the nickname of “Da Judge”. Jim would have really been proud of the field of racers that had assembled. Spread over 3 “fuel” classes, 42 bikes showed up, 20 of which were “top fuel” monsters, and one of those was the Hampton Roads H-D sponsored Top Fueler ridden by Robert “Ziggy” Stewart, nephew of Jim Mc-Clure. Thirteen other classes, pro-gas through ET were well represented also. My favorite has always been the fuelers. Some of these

bikes are now up to 195 cu. inches with over 1200 HP and similar numbers in torque, these things are just unbeliev-able. The pilots were airing ‘em out for all they were worth on Saturday, trying to qualify for the 16 bike field, main event on Sunday. The last team to make the grade was well under 7 seconds at 6.88. The best pass of the week-end was on Saturday when Joey Sternotti laid down a smokin’ 6.29, 226 mph pass. Just .06 off the ET record of 6.23 and 4 miles per hour off the mph record of 230. AHDRA races are the most exciting motorcycle events I’ve ever been too. Is it the aroma of spent nitro in the air?... the smell of burning rubber?... or the side by side burnouts as the racers heat the massive slicks that launch these missiles. It’s probably a combination of it all that triggers the adrenaline rush you get while you’re there. I love it and at less than $.25 per fuel bike pass (yes, I’ve done the math), its one of the best “bangs for your buck” going. There’s al-ways $5 discount coupons available at your local shops and HOG member discounts when there’s a race in your neigh-borhood. On top of that, patriots that they are, the AHDRA admits active duty and reserve military absolutely free. So next time you’re on the computer, surf on over to http://www.ahdra.com/ , find out when they are going to be running near you, then head on out to get a fistful of excite-ment for yourself.

S&S Jim McClure NationalsPetersburg, VA Sept 20th & 21st 2008


Proud To Be An AmericanTHE VIRGINIA WAR MEMORIAL As a veteran nothing touches my heart quite like a tribute to our fallen heroes. We do not honor our military the way we once did. My own experience of coming home to an ungrateful nation left scars that took years to heal. However, just north of the Lee Bridge in Richmond stands The Virginia War Memorial (VWM); the Commonwealths tribute to her men and women who gave all in defense of their country. The VWM was authorized in 1950 by the General Assembly and was com-pleted in 1955. It was originally designed to honor World War ll veterans and then Korean War veterans. In 1981, an addi-tion was added to honor those killed in Vietnam and in 1996, those killed in the Persian Gulf were added. There are a total of 11,634 names etched on the walls and glass panels of the Memorial. The Memorial is a beautiful, solemn place. Honor and dignity emanate from everywhere. You cannot help but be in awe of the simplistic beauty that encompasses the Virginia War Memorial. The Memorial consists of The Hall of Honor Auditorium, Visitors Center, and the Shrine of Memory. Walk-ing through the shrine, you see the names of Virginia’s fallen soldiers. Some are etched on the stone walls and some on the glass panels. At the south end of the shrine is the statue, Memory. Memory stands 23 feet tall and keeps vigil over her fallen men and women. At the base of Memory, is the Torch of Liberty, an eternal flame. Just past the south end is the Flag Court where 7 flags fly representing the Army, Navy, Marine, Coast Guard, Air Force, Merchant Marine, and the VWM. Next to the Visitors Center is a bed of crimson rose bushes named Veterans Honor Rose and each day a rose is placed at the base of Memory. Also along the front retaining wall is a bed of lilac long stem roses named the World War ll Memorial Rose. In 2007 over 20,000 people from all over the world visited the VWM There is a gift shop, a collection of war memories going back to World War ll, and a state of the art theater for showing the film, “Virginians at War.” The Virginia War Memorial’s purpose is preserving memories, honoring veter-ans, and instilling patriotism. No matter how well planned, an organization is no bet-ter than the people who run it. The VWM is blessed with a wonderful staff. My friend, Retired Lt. Col. Jon Hatfield is the Executive Director. He was the very first employee in July, 1997 and oversees the operation of the memorial. Rachel Snyder is the office manager and from what I can see, does well beyond her assigned duties of the operation, cover-

ing for Jon while he is in meetings with legislators trying to secure more funding from them for the Memorial. Candy Shelton is the Educational Specialist. Candy helps with the research and development of the educational films that are shown ay the Memorial. Harry Warner is the Executive Director for the Educational Foundation and he does the documentary series “Virginians at War”. In a small corner of the adjacent building is Jesse Smith. Jesse is the Artifacts Collection Manager and he handles all the memories of war collection. I offered to let them have my old “boony hat” but I have not had a response yet. The VWM is bulging at the seems and is currently working on an expansion project to honor Virginians killed in Desert Storm, Iraq, and Afghanistan. This new addition will be called the Paul and Phyllis Galanti Education Center. Paul was a Naval aviator shot down over North Vietnam and was a prisoner for over six years. His wife Phyllis held vigil at home and led an effort to insure that American POW’s were not forgotten. This new addition is needed to meet the increasing demand of the ever growing number of visitors. Jon and his staff need our help. They need volunteers to serve as guides to walk visitors around the grounds and ex-plain the history of the VWM. There is also the ongoing need for funds. Whether you are a civilian who has never served, a veteran or even on active duty, you’re invited to give in one form or another to help support The Virginia War Memo-rial. In honor of those heroic individuals, whose names are forever etched in the walls & panels, we should all thank God that someone died to keep us free. You can contact the VWM at www.vawarmemorial.org or call 804-786-2060. Reverend Rocky Angone


Proud To Be An AmericanHONOR AND REMEMBERBy George Lutz

Cpl George A. Lutz II12 Dec 1980 ~ 29 Dec 2005US Army, 4th Psy Ops Group, 9th Bat, Ft Bragg

On December 29, 2005 George Anthony Lutz II (Tony) was killed by a sniper’s bullet while he was on patrol inside Fal-

lujah, Iraq. His family and friends endured the shock, emotion-al agony and overwhelming loss that accompanied the news of Tony’s death, just like the many families who have suffered the same tragedy.In the months that followed Tony’s funeral, his father, George, visited other families who had lost loved ones in the Iraq war. He began to sense that he had joined the ranks of a unique fellowship. These families were only the latest additions to a group that originated with the American Revolution, when the first soldiers to shed their blood for our freedom gave their lives.George found another commonality among the families of fallen soldiers. After their grief had transitioned to numbness and finally to acceptance, many families wanted to know two things: their sacrifice was not in vain and the nation would never forget. These concerns led George on a quest to discover if there was a universally recognized symbol that acknowledges the Ameri-can servicemen and servicewomen who never made it home. To his surprise, he found nothing. Did families generations before us feel any different, were parents from any past conflict crying for anything less than Remembrance.Many families of fallen soldiers have established memorials to their lost loved ones. Whether it is a monument, license plate, armband, ceremony, street name or website, each reminder is intended as a tangible link to a loved one who was lost. As meaningful as these memorials are, they cannot represent the collective honor due to each fallen soldier from a grateful nation. Thus the Honor and Remember Flag was conceived.The Honor and Remember Flag should fly from every flagpole in America as a daily reminder that the rights and freedoms we enjoy have not been cheaply purchased. They have been bought with the blood of brave Americans, whose families, friends, fellow soldiers and shipmates will never forget them.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~The Flag’s Symbolism

The Honor and Remember Flag’s design is distinctive, yet simple. Each detail on the flag symbol-izes an important part of the overall meaning of the flag’s message.

The Red Field represents the blood spilled by brave men and women in America’s mili-tary throughout our history, who gave their lives so that our nation would remain free.

The Blue Star represents active service in military conflict. This symbol originated with World War I, but on this flag it signifies service in all wars from the American Revolution to present day.

The White Border surrounding the gold star recog-nizes the purity of sacrifice. There is no greater price an American can pay than to give his or her life in service to our country.

The Gold Star signifies the ultimate sacrifice of a warrior in active service who will not return home. Gold reflects the value of the life that was given.

The Folded Flag signifies the final tribute to an individual life that a family sacrificed and gave to the nation.

The Flame is an eternal reminder of the spirit that has departed this life yet burns on in the memory of all who knew and loved the fallen hero.

Flag Etiquette

The Honor and Remember flag is intended to be flown continu-ously, along with and under Ole Glory, the flag of the United States of America. The Honor and Remember flag may also fly independently on a separate pole, respecting the protocol of other official flags. The Honor and Remember Flag is to be flown below the Stars and Stripes whenever on the same pole and always to be in a subservient position. Never to diminish in meaning or stature the US Flag. It is suggested that it flies close to half-mast. When three or more flags are to be flown on the same pole it will fly second only to the American flag.In the more than 200 years of our nation’s history there has never been an officially recognized symbol that reminds us daily of the sacrifices made by members of our military and the lives lost in service to our country. We propose the Honor and Remember Flag as a national emblem for that purpose. You’re invited to go to the website www.honorandremember.org to sign the Petition to Establish a National Remembrance Flag.


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In Memory of

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 10

In Memory ofa Special Friend - Carla Mitchel

I could not believe the message I was hearing on my cell phone. I had to listen to it three times before it sank in...Carla Mitchell died from an accident on her beautiful motorcycle. I called three other people hoping for one of them to say “yes, Carla was in an accident...but she is fine.” Unfortunately, those were not the words I heard. My name is Tami Walker, with Diva Customs, and it’s not hard for me to tell everyone how wonderful a person Carla Mitchell was. I met Carla three years ago at one of my bike shows. She showed up with a cool Trike and dominated her class. But it was her bubbly personality and bright red cowboy boots that stole the show. Three years later, Carla was riding the hottest Trike in town, still wearing multi-colored cowboy boots and she continued to charm anyone who met her. Some of my fondest memories of Carla were at the BoneShakers’ Social Club meetings on Tuesday nights. When someone stood up to speak and could not be heard over the crowd, Carla would repeat everything the person would say in a voice that carried across the room. But, that was Carla, her outgoing personality, her zest for life, her love for friends and family made her a person you just wanted to meet and get to know. Our city, this community, and myself will miss her smile, miss her stories of her beloved horses, her laughter....well... simply put...we will miss her, Carla Mitchell. I guess Heaven needed someone up there to make them laugh and smile.

Editor’s note: We’ll all surely miss Carla for she was the shining light of any room that she entered. I didn’t know her well but I had the pleasure of enjoying her company on many occasions at bike shows or just out & about. She loved her horses but she was certainly damn proud of her beautiful trike – a true rider & a fine person that our motorcycle community will surely miss. Thanks girl, for all the joy you brought to us all. ~ Kelly ~


Nashville Boys Do Good

By Rebel Ron of Columbia, TN

This article not only tells of two young Nashville-born musicians but their connection with the two wheelers we so cherish. Most people have been led to believe that these two Southern music icons are from Macon, Georgia but they were both born in Music City. Howard Duane Allman was born November 20, 1946 and his little brother Gregory Lenoir Allman came into this world in Nashville on December 8, 1947. (Most of these photos have never been published so lets see the young Allmans with their Easter bunny chocolates.)

November 11 is the day we honor veterans of all wars so let’s honor the Allman’s dad, Sgt. Willis Allman, with his photo in this publication. Little is known of the career Army man be-cause he was robbed & murdered in 1949 near his base in Vir-ginia. Their mother, Geraldine Allman, moved back to Music City with the future music stars. The Allman brothers appar-ently were being groomed to adopt the military life like their dad. Both were enrolled at Castle Heights Military School and can be seen in uniform with their “Granny Daniels” just before Geraldine moved them to Daytona Beach at the end of 1957.

Even though the boys had lived much of their lives in Music City they did not take a liking to music until they were in Daytona. However, while visiting relatives in Nashville in 1959 they scored tickets to a B.. B. King show and were amazed with his music. Some say this was when the elder brother told the younger that they needed to get into this business. Back in the Sunshine state in 1960 Greg kept hearing one of his neighbors playing country music on a guitar and decided to get one. After playing around with his new guitar his brother was soon drawn to it and sur-passed Greg’s playing efforts very quickly. (The photo of them on the beach is with their Grandmother, Myrtle Allman, apparently when she visited them from Nashville. You can also see a cool photo of Duane by the road sign his family lived on in Nashville. Check out them shoes! )

In 1961 the teenage Allmans were playing local gigs as “The Escorts.” In 1963 Duane dropped out of high school to focus on his guitar work and Greg stuck high school out graduating in 1965 from Sea-breeze High. Soon after the brothers hit the road as the “Allman Joys” and toured the southeast. In 1967 the brothers were beginning their climb to fame when they signed a contract in LA and changed their name to “The Hourglass.” They recorded two LPs but the record label was not letting them be them-

selves and were trying to mold them into another nice, shiny, harmless pop band. The brothers were not proud of this period of their budding music career. Disil-lusioned with the record label’s attempt to push them into a pop music style they soon broke up.

Before we go too far lets take a look at why neither of the boys had been drafted since we were knee deep in Vietnam in 1965. Apparently the recruiters passed on Duane earlier when he went in for his examina-tion while wearing ladies underwear. ( I guess that was before the “Don’t ask. Don’t tell” rule.) Gregg got out with an injury to his foot. Since they boys had a tour coming up they needed to get Gregg off the draft list. So they thought it would be a good idea to have some friends over for a foot shooting party and Gregg was to be the star! Duane, being the concerned bro that he was, even painted a bulls eye on Gregg’s foot before he shot himself. I was told that Gregg attempted to get out of this potentially pain-ful task until his big brother scolded him about embarrassing him in front of all their friends. After all they had come there to see Gregg shoot his foot. After a few more gulps of courage he did it! The foot injury got him removed from the draft list and the tour proceeded along.

Gregg again played a big role in his big brother’s musical direction in 1968 while Duane was sick in bed. Gregg stopped by his brother’s place with a bottle of cold pills for his fever and he also brought the debut album by guitarist “Taj Mahal” as a get well gift. Several hours later Gregg received a call from his talented brother urging him to come back over. When he ar-rived Duane had removed the label from the bottle and dumped the pills out while playing up

Larger Pictures At www.thunderroadstn.com/greggallman


a storm with his new slide! This album had an old blues song Taj had covered called “Statesboro Blues” that would soon be one of the ABB’s biggest hits.

Duane returned to Daytona and soon formed another band when he called his little brother to come out and join him in 1969. The new band was called “The Allman Brothers band” and it consisted of men who would make musical history. This band released its first self titled album with Duane on slide guitar, Gregg on vocals and organ, Dickey Betts would join the band on guitar and Berry Oakley played bass. They also did something different by having not one but two drummers, Jai Johanny “Jaimoe” Johanson and Butch Trucks.

Their next album released in 1970 was “Idlewind South” which contained a couple songs that will be played on classic rock radio forever. “Revival” and the biker classic “Midnight Rider” had this album climbing the charts. The band was very good at this point but they were at their best in a live setting and soon released the classic live LP “At Filmore East.” This vinyl record had one of my all time favorite songs on it called “Whipping Post.” (Rolling Stone mag calls this is one of the 500 best LPs ever!)

The two brothers were rising to the top of the music charts and living large in Macon, Georgia. Sadly, the bands future was to take a tragic turn for the worse on October 29, 1971. Duane was killed riding his Sportster on the way home from the studio with his girl-friend, Dixie, and Berry Oakley and his sister, Candace, following him in a car. Duane was exceeding the speed limit on his chopper when he came up behind a slower car. He shot around it and soon met a large flatbed truck with a crane on the bed making a left turn across both lanes of traffic. It was reported from his friends follow-ing in the car that the truck driver paused for some reason block-ing both lanes and Duane tried to go around the rear of the truck. Unfortunately, a cable hanging from the crane jerked both bike and rider up into the air and both soon crashed to the ground with the Custom XL on top and then both skidded to the curb. The bike’s motor was still roaring away until the truck driver came over and shut the motor off. Duane was alive and had few visible injuries but he soon began to have pains and was taken to the emergency room. He suffered several internal injuries and was sent to the operating table where he would die three hours after the afternoon crash. Not only was Duane getting name recognition with the popular ABB but he was a sought after studio musician as well. He played guitar and slide on such artist’s records as Wilson Pickett, Aretha Frank-lin, Boz Skaggs, and Eric Clapton, just to name a few.

(Let’s take a moment to set an “urban myth” straight concerning Duane’s untimely death. The album they were about to release was called “Eat A Peach” long before Duane crashed and it had nothing to do with Allman crashing into a peach truck. The title of the LP came from a comment Duane had made to a reporter about what he was doing concerning the Vietnam war. Duane simply said, “I’m gonna eat a peach for peace!”

Another myth from this fateful LP is connected with the tragic bike death of ABB bassist, Berry Oakley. This rumor claims that he had crashed his bike into a watermelon truck which you can see on the back of the LP’s cover that does indeed, have a watermelon truck on it. Oakley’s death on his 1969 Triumph came months after the LP was released and he wrecked just three blocks from where Duane had crashed just over a year earlier. On November 11, 1972 Oakley was speeding through Macon with one of Gregg’s pals,

Kim ?, while clowning around on their bikes on a curvy street. Ber-ry was going too fast and high sided in a curve and slammed into the middle of a bus going the opposite direction. Berry was thrown from the bike and slid across the road. His crumpled Triumph spun in the same direction and came to rest on top of him. Oakley got up and walked away from the crash but he refused to go to the emer-gency room and died later that day from a skull fracture.

After these tragic events the “Eat A Peach” record was a huge success but the deaths and pressure from the music scene at that time took a toll on the band. Greg would have his ups and downs from drug woes to women, Cher, just to name one, all during the 70s. The band still toured to huge audiences and they still sold a lot of records. I shall not touch on the rest of their career because most everyone is familiar with other great songs the band put out including one of my favs from a Greg solo LP, “I’m No Angel”, which was the name of the LP too.

Gregg has survived all of the sorrows of life along with the dark excesses brought on by stardom. Gregg has been clean and sober for over 10 years now but was diagnosed with hepatitis earlier this year. I am told that he has the illness under control and will be seen on a stage near you to celebrate the ABB 40 year anniversary this year. I consider Gregg one of the best artists in my life and can relate many bike riding memories to his songs. If you really want to check out Gregg at his best get the “Living For Simplicity” CD that came out in 1997. He told me back then that it was the first recording he ever made sober and it really shows in his voice and music. The CD has many of the ABB standards but they are not overproduced and Gregg’s unique bluesy voice is perfect.. ( I’ve included a photo of Gregg on a 1961 Harley Hummer that is also the cover art for this recording. )

They band received 11 Gold and 5 Platinum albums as well as winning a Grammy Award for Best Rock Instrumental Perfor-mance in 1996. Duane Allman would still get recognition as well after being #2 one of Rolling Stone magazine’s 100 Greatest Gui-tarists of All Time.

Not only is the colorful band still touring but Gregg still rides his Harley as well. Good luck man and I hope the stage light shines on you for many more years. Just be careful riding your bike dude!


It was a beautiful sunny day in Lowell, North Carolina on Saturday October 4. The air was punctuated by live rock n’ roll and the conversations of over 4,500 Indian motorcycle enthusiasts from across America and around the world. Indian fans from the Carolinas, Georgia, Florida, Missis-sippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Ohio, Indiana, Wisconsin, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Tennessee, Virginia, Pennsylvania, Texas, Arizona, California and other states flocked to the new mecca of Indian Motorcycle, just south-west of Charlotte.

Pervasive smells of grilling and barbeque led to fueling stops for the crowd as the celebration continued. The opening of the first Indian dealership in modern times was the perfect historic event that had been planned and marked a new beginning for Indian Motorcycle Company, under new ownership since late 2004.

The day long celebration began with factory tours at Indian Motorcycle headquarters in Kings Mountain, North Carolina. Scheduled to begin at eleven, the line started forming shortly after eight and thus the tour began early. By four in the afternoon, over 3,000 had visited the fac-tory, completely overwhelming Indian factory staff and tour guides. State Troopers were called in to help direct traffic off I-85, which had a mile backup at Exit 2.

A scheduled 12:30 pm “backroads” ride to Indian Motor-cycle Charlotte became an escorted ride down I-85 to Exit 22, with motorcycles stretching over three miles. Festivities at the dealership began earlier in the day with live music, food and beverage sales to benefit the Gaston County Shrine Club. It was a day of renewing connections with friends from far and wide and all in attendance seemed very impressed with the new Indian Chiefs.

Stephen Julius, Chairman of Indian Motorcycle Com-pany, addressed the gathered crowd mid-afternoon calling it “a historic day in the renaissance of Indian Motorcycle. We want to extend a very special warm welcome to Indian motorcycle owners, who have kept the faith for all these years”. In addition, he recognized Harley-Davidson, calling that company “a source of inspiration for us.” He also pub-licly thanked Chris Bernauer, GM of Indian, and the team of engineers and craftsmen responsible for development of the new Indian.

Mark A. Moses, Owner and General Manager, said “We at Indian Motorcycle Charlotte are very proud of our beauti-ful new facility. We tried to design a fitting showcase for the unique spirit and pride associated with the Indian Motorcy-cle brand and believe we have succeeded. We are thrilled to be the very first Indian dealership in America” he said, “and we look forward to offering this legendary motorcycle to those enthusiasts who share our passion for all things Indian.”

The Charlotte dealership is a 11,300 square foot facility, with over half of the space devoted to showroom, confer-ence room, offices and the balance to a pristine 4-bay service area, parts and accessories, and inventory storage.

The new 2009 Indian Chief is an ultra premium luxury

Indian Motorcycle Charlotte Celebrates Its Grand Opening As The World’s First Indian Dealership

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 1�

cruiser produced in limited numbers. Indian Chiefs are available in four basic levels of trim with a range of color and accessory options. Prices will start at $30,999. No more than 750 2009 Indians models will be built, with plans to increase production in the second year. All Indian Chiefs are assembled by highly skilled two-man teams, who also personally sign each motorcycle’s build certificate.

While the instantly recognizable classic shape has been retained, the 2009 Indian Chiefs are all new. There are virtually no parts interchangeable with previous Indian motorcycles. Indian Motorcycle was founded in 1901 in Springfield, Massachusetts, and is recognized as America’s First Motorcycle.

In addition, Indian Motorcycle Charlotte boasts an exten-sive line of Indian brand apparel and merchandise, includ-ing leather jackets, outerwear, sweaters, boots, shirts of all descriptions. Merchandise includes coffee cups, leather portfolios, coasters, pins, teddy bears and towels and a wide range of collectibles including historic oil cans, sig-nage, and even Indian brand gasoline pumps.

Indian Motorcycle Charlotte is located southwest of Char-lotte, North Carolina in Lowell, just off I-85 at Exit 22, about 15 minutes from the Charlotte-Douglas airport. Showroom hours will be 9-6 Tuesday through Friday and 9-5 on Satur-day, closed on Sunday and Monday. Phone 704-879-4560 or visit online at IndianMotorcycleCharlotte.com.

by Mike Zapiecki, Team Z Marketing, 419-345-1010 or [email protected]


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!


By Kevin G. Charleville

My name is Kevin G. Charleville and I have been a Firefighter/Paramedic for 27 years. I am also certified in Pre Hospital Trauma Life Support and Advanced Cardiac Life Support. I hold many technical rescue certificates as well. I also am the proud owner of a Harley-Davidson Motorcycle and love to ride when I can. Just as you are, I am concerned about safety on the road. However, let’s take it a step further and talk about some first aid issues in case the unthinkable happens. This month, I present to you an article on head injuries, and each month, we will discuss differ-ent types of injuries and health issues. The statistics are overwhelming concerning motor-cycle crash fatalities due to head injuries; they are the leading cause of death, wearing a helmet while rid-ing a motorcycle will decrease the chance of a head injury by 30 percent. It does not take much blunt force trauma to receive a significant life altering head injury. I had an emergency call once, involving a young child who was riding their bicycle in their driveway, lost their balance, fell off, and hit their head on the pavement. This victim passed 3 hours later at a local hospital due the head injury they suffered from the fall. Would a helmet have saved their life? A normal human head weighs approximately 16 pounds, about the weight of a bowling ball. On the inside, there is approximately 1500cc’s of space. Your brain takes up 1500cc’s, so, needless to say, there is no room left for any thing else, including expansion due to the collection of excess fluid. When your head hits something significantly to cause bruising on or in your brain, (remember that bruising is a collection of blood and fluid), there is no way to relieve the pres-sure, except for surgery. If not treated soon enough, it can lead to altered mental status, coma, and even death. Let’s look at some signs of head injuries so we may be able to identify this problem. Again, look for altered states of mental capacity. This could be anything from the person not acting like they normally do, becoming sleepy, incoherent, erratic behavior, etc. Clear or blood tinged clear fluid coming from their nose and ears, shivering, (always keep patient warm), coma, and a late sign would be unequal pupils. Look

for contusions (bruising) on the scalp area, and also, look at the mechanism of injury, i.e. what did they hit? How fast were they going? How significant is the dam-age their helmet? Ok, so what do we do? Call for help for starters, along with head injuries, there could very well be spinal injuries. The head is a very vascular region of the body; wounds such as lacerations, abrasions, and punctures can display copious amounts of blood, make sure you control this bleeding. Keep the person lying still with their body in a straight line. Keep them warm by covering them with a blanket, jacket, shirt, etc. As always, in any accident situation, look for other injuries as well, especially life threatening injuries. Report your findings to the emergency workers when they arrive. If the patient happens to be a loved one or a dear friend, try not to panic, especially if you start to see signs of a head injury. Panic can lead us to make irrational decisions and poor choices. Remember, we are there to make a bad situation better. So, stay calm, stay alert, and stay alive.

Tips To Manage A Bad Situation


THUNDER ROADS GIVES THANKS PIMENTO MAC & CHEESE1 Box (lb.) Large Elbow Pasta Salt water to taste1 Tbl. Extra Virgin Olive Oil 2 Tbl. Premium Margarine 1 Small Onion, small chop2 Cloves Garlic, small chop1 tsp. Paprika, plus extra for garnish Ground black pepper to taste2 tablespoons flour 2 cups milk A couple dashes of hot sauce 2 1-Cup Bags of Shredded Sharp Cheese2 Jars of pimentos (3 ounces each), drained 1/2 cup Parsley flakes for garnishPlace a large pot of water over high heat and bring it up to a boil to cook the pasta. Once at a boil, add some salt and the pasta and cook to desired doneness. Heat a large pot over medium heat with the oil and margarine. Add the onion, garlic, paprika, salt and ground black pepper and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the flour and cook about a minute. Whisk in the milk and hot sauce, and bring up to a bubble. Turn off the heat and stir in 1 bag of the cheese in a figure-eight motion until it’s all melted. When the pasta is done, drain it well and add it to the pot with the cheese sauce. Toss to combine. Fold in the drained pimentos, then pour ev-erything into a baking dish and top with the remaining cheese. Bake in 400 degree oven until the cheese is brown and bub-bling. Top with paprika and parsley for garnish.

THUNDER PILGRIM ONION POCKETS 2 Pkgs. of pre-made large dough squares cut into 4 equal sections ( in section where pre-made pizza dough is located at your grocer’s) or get the kind in a can and roll out. 4 Medium-Large Yellow Sweet Onions1 Pkg. of Shredded Monterrey-Jack Cheese1 Stick of Real Butter or Premium MargarineParsley Flakes & Nutmeg to SprinklePlace an onion on one square of cut dough, slit an “X” into the top of your onion but only cut down 1/4” into onion. Spread onion open a bit. Sprinkle down into your “X” some parsley flakes and just a nidge of Nutmeg and a small pat of butter or 1/2 tsp. of margarine. Sprinkle your shredded cheese thor-oughly over the top of the onion. Now, take another square of your dough and place it over top of your onion and very

gently stretch it down to meet up with dough underneath your onion. Press gently to mold the two dough squares together. Now, take a fork and use the tines to go all around the pouch you have created and seal the pouch up tight. Next, take egg wash (1 egg yolk & a dash of water whisked together) and brush all over your onion pocket. Repeat process for remaining (3) onions. Place on very lightly spray-greased cooking sheet and bake at 400 degrees for about 40 minutes until puffy & golden brown. Serve as a delicious side dish with your fanciest dinner or simplest supper. These are the bomb, baby!

THUNDER ROADS PUMPKIN CUPCAKESw/ BUTTER-CREAM-CHEESE FROSTING2/3 Cup Crisco Shortening2 Whole Eggs3/4 Cup Maple Syrup1/2 Whole Milk 1-1/2 Cups All-Purpose FlourDash Salt1/2 tsp. Baking Soda1/2 tsp. Ground Ginger1/2 tsp. Ground Allspice1 Cup of Canned Pumpkin 1 Can (8 ozs.) Crushed Pineapple, drained1 Pkg.(8 ozs.) Philly Cream Cheese, softened1/2 Cup Real Butter, softened1-1/2 Cups Confectioner’s SugarIn large bowl beat Crisco until light & fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in syrup & milk. Combine flour, baking powder, salt, baking soda, ginger & allspice, add to shortening mix and beat just until moistened. Stir in pumpkin & pineapple. Fill paper-lined muffin cups two-thirds full. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 mins. Cool for 15 mins. before removing paper liners and plating for frosting. Beat Cream cheese & butter in a small mixing bowl until fluffy. Add confectioner’s sugar, beat until smooth. Spoon all your frosting mix into a plastic bag, snip off one corner of bag with scissors and use your plastic bag as a professional baker’s bag and squeeze big old dollops of frosting all over your cupcakes to frost. Looks absolutely beautiful and for “day of gratitude and giving thanks” table spread.

FROM OUR THUNDER ROADS FAMILY TO YOURSGOD BLESS & JUST BE GRATEFUL.


B I K E R S W E L C O M E !


“That 60’s Place”TM

www.ThunderbirdGrill.com

201 Battery Park RoadSmithfield, Virginia 23430

(Rt. 10 Business)Behind Farmers Bank


TECH TIPS

Here we are again my friends…it’s Fall and the air is cooling down, the leaves are starting to turn, the tourists are gone and MY riding season has officially started. I love riding in the fall weather, much like many of you out there…I’ll ride all summer, but I HATE being too hot on a bike. Yes, I know…it’s never “too hot to ride”, but we all have our limits. On the flip side of this, let’s talk about how to prepare for some cool weather riding and how to make sure you and your bike make the best of the ride.Let’s start with you. Proper riding gear is essential when riding in the fall and winter. We can get away with just about anything in the summer, but if you want to ride into the winter that t-shirt and jeans ain’t gonna cut it. Here’s a little nugget of cool weather riding knowledge for you….on a 65 degree day at about 55-60 mph you will feel a wind chill of approximately 30 degrees Fahrenheit…this means that a 180 pound man will be hypothermic within 30 minutes of riding. Loss of blood flow to the extremities, loss of feeling in your hands and feet…headache…(any of this sounding familiar?). When your extremities go from being cold to being painful, or when your teeth start chattering

(seriously) PULL OVER…the next step of the hypothermic process involves you taking a nap that you hadn’t planned on and at highway speeds….that is not good. So what do we do…?????LAYERS, LAYERS, LAYERS….lots of light layers of clothing under your well insulated riding jacket… (you do have one don’t you? If not and you want more information on which ones are worth buying, e-mail me!), will keep you nice and warm on those cool rides. The same goes for your legs…we pay all the attentions to our upper body, but we neglect our legs and feet. Good pair of jeans and some over pants is your best option…chaps run a distant second, and a great pair of long-johns will probably serve you better than they will. Well, warm socks, good boots…you’re done right? Wait…I didn’t mention gloves…I could fill an entire column writing about gloves. All I will say is this…”Gore-Tex”, “windproof” and “gauntlet” are the three key words when shopping for winter gloves. In saying all of this…I will pass one of my readers on the road who is dressed perfectly for winter riding…wearing a non-DOT pudding bowl with a “Helmet Laws Suck” sticker on it….I can only do so much folks….!Now….your bike:First thing you do (and I don’t care how longs it’s been since you last rode your motorcycle), is you CHECK YOUR TIRE PRESSURE!!!!!!! Let me give ya’ a little science lesson (I’m a science teacher, I’m allowed!) Gas Laws 101: Gasses will act accordingly to the ambient temperature around them (i.e. Air temp) whereas the higher the temperature, the higher the expansion rate of the gas and the lower the temperature, the more the gas contracts. This means that when you rode your bike last weekend and it was 80 degrees and you had 34 lbs of pressure in your tire and it is now 60 degrees out side….guess what, you don’t have 34 lbs of air in that tire anymore…maybe more like 28 or less…big difference, especially if you are riding two-up. This will change some as the tire heats up from the road, but you NEED to check it regularly, especially this time of year when it is 85 degrees one day and 60 the next….other that that…your bike is pretty much an all temperature machine…just your basic care and maintenance will keep you going all winter long.

Ride safe everyone…Knees in the breeze…Aaron

Aaron JohnsonFull time �th grade school teacher (seriously), � years in the power sports industry having been a technician and service manager for Suzuki, Kawasaki, Polaris, Bombardier and Harley-Davidson. I am the as-sistant parts mgr. for Turners Honda in Elizabeth City and three years as an MSF instructor. I also build cus-tom motorcycles and do show winning restorations.


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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!

DEADLINE!

WOW, FRESH OIL … when I first came up on this sign I must say I was a little concerned. I was heading down the 17 S from Sedona on my motorcycle doing about 70.

I must tell you that my girlfriend (Donna) and I was freaking out. I never heard of Fresh Oil on the road before. OK, I am from the east coast, maybe that’s why. Why would ADOT put Fresh Oil on the road? Are they trying to kill me? So I contacted ADOT to find out. Here is the answer to my question from Bill Williams, Public Informa-tion Officer ADOT Prescott District.

“ADOT believes this is a safe process for lengthening the life of the roadway surface to save taxpayers’ dollars. The “oil” that is applied does lower the frictional quality of the surface immediately after it is applied. Once it breaks or sets, there is very little difference in the surface friction. Since traffic is not allowed on it until it breaks, motor vehicles need not take precautions with regard to friction. The striping is usually covered and until it is repainted it may be faint and hard to see so a slight decrease in speed may be appropriate depending on conditions.”

So there you go. According to Bill it’s safe for Motorcycles and cages but I am still going to slow down. LuckStone

FRESH OIL


Thunder Jams

OPERATION WE CAREThe Eastern Shore Chapter Harley Owners Group and

Harley-Davidson of Ocean City are preparing for Operation We Care - Christmas 2008. This project, which began last year, has sent over 200 care packages to the troops in Iraq

and Afghanistan. Many of these troops are from the Del-marva area.

The group is seeking donations to fill the boxes and finan-cial donations to help cover the cost of postage. Copies of the list of needed items are available at Harley-Davidson of Ocean City or at www.easternshorehog.com

http://www.easternshorehog.com. Donations can be dropped off at HDOC seven days a week during business hours.

The boxes will be packed on Sunday, November 9 at the Powellville Fire Hall and shipped out shortly thereafter so they can reach their destination by Christmas.

The group is also constantly adding to their mailing list. If you know of anyone that is currently deployed overseas or if you need your donations picked up please contact Jeff Merritt at 410-713-8940 or [email protected] for more information.

Kyle Adamson of Mt Airy, MD., owner of this OCC chopper with friends Frankie, and movie star Peter Fonda (Captain American) on his ranch in Livingston,MT. Photo sent by his brother, Scott Adamson.

WOW, FRESH OIL … when I first came up on this sign I must say I was a little concerned. I was heading down the 17 S from Sedona on my motorcycle doing about 70.

I must tell you that my girlfriend (Donna) and I was freaking out. I never heard of Fresh Oil on the road before. OK, I am from the east coast, maybe that’s why. Why would ADOT put Fresh Oil on the road? Are they trying to kill me? So I contacted ADOT to find out. Here is the answer to my question from Bill Williams, Public Informa-tion Officer ADOT Prescott District.

“ADOT believes this is a safe process for lengthening the life of the roadway surface to save taxpayers’ dollars. The “oil” that is applied does lower the frictional quality of the surface immediately after it is applied. Once it breaks or sets, there is very little difference in the surface friction. Since traffic is not allowed on it until it breaks, motor vehicles need not take precautions with regard to friction. The striping is usually covered and until it is repainted it may be faint and hard to see so a slight decrease in speed may be appropriate depending on conditions.”

So there you go. According to Bill it’s safe for Motorcycles and cages but I am still going to slow down. LuckStone

FRESH OIL

Easy Rider


Open Road Outfitters 45763 Elmwood Court, Sterling, VA 20166

[email protected] - www.openroadoutfitters.com

Questions? Call 1-800-541-6736

Need extra room for gear? Not sure what trailer is right for your bike? Open Road carries a full line of cargo, camper and pet trailers from $1,595. We install hitches and wiring, too. Visit us in Sterling, VA or check out our in-ventory online any time.

Campers - $2,795

“The Legend” - $4,055 Rt.66 - $2,295

Take Fido, too!


Ride For Pink

On behalf of the Ride for Pink 2008 event coordinators, we would like to say thank you to the volunteers, the spon-sors, Chevy’s Restaurant, Knuckleheads and the unbeliev-able number of participants for this spectacular turn out and event.

On the heels of recession, we were afraid that the riders and auction would pale in comparison to last year….we were happily wrong. Ride for Pink 08 had over 600 motor-cycles leave Chevy’s Restaurant towards Knuckleheads the morning of October 5, 2008. With beautiful weather and a sea of pink….pink ribbons, bandanas and clothing, the mass exodus of 600+ motorcycles was awesome to say the least.

Last year the numbers topped 450+, so with over 600 rid-ers this year we were off to a record start to the day. Every-one was able to grab an excellent breakfast at Chevy’s who spent the night at the restaurant to prepare a scrumptious buffet! The auction was a huge success and as always, everyone loved Butter!

Last year we were able to raise just over $32,000. This year we raised in excess of $42,000! Only with the help of friends who support our efforts in fund raising for research to fight this life threatening disease! We want to say thank you to so many of you who donated your time, your items, your money and all with a smile! We look forward to next year.

Fighting for prevention and a cure in our lifetime…The Breast Cancer Research Foundation!

Ride For PinkPhyllis, Julie, Boomer and Michael -


Congrats to Rob Borders who won the Harley Davidson Sportster. Nicole will certainly enjoy it


Club DirectoryABATE of Virginia welcomes all riders to join in the fight to protect your rights. No matter what you ride, we want YOU! For more information contact Sharon Keaton at 540-937-3924 or [email protected]. Stay on top of the latest ABATE news and events by visiting www.ABATEofVA.com.

ABATE Coalfield Riders Chapter ( Grundy , VA ) meets 7PM every 2nd Saturday at Caleb & Melissa’s garage, Deel Fork, Grundy , VA 24614-9600 . Everyone Welcome. For more information contact Steve Stacy at 276-935-2484 or [email protected]

ABATE Culpeper Chapter ( Culpeper , VA ) meets 7PM every 2nd Thurs-day at Hazel River Pub, 105 E Davis St, Culpeper , VA 22701. Everyone Welcome. For more information contact Tim Dalman at 540-219-6366 or [email protected]

ABATE 1st Capitol Chapter ( Williamsburg , VA ) meets 9AM every 1st Sunday at Beachcomber’s Restaurant, 8811 George Washington Memorial Hwy, Yorktown , VA 23692. Everyone Welcome. For more information contact Gene Spare at 757-903-6541 or [email protected]

ABATE Iron Horse Calvary Chapter ( Lynchburg , VA ) meets 7PM every 1st Tuesday at Mary Jane’s Café, 826 Kemper St, Lynchburg , VA 24502-3250. Everyone Welcome. For more information contact Tronco at 434-993-3197 or [email protected]

ABATE Lonesome Pine Chapter (Wise, VA) meets 6:30PM every 1st Tues-day at Mosby’s Restaurant, 205 Ridgeview Rd, Wise , VA 24293. Everyone Welcome. For more information contact Shag Mead at 276-565-4541 or [email protected]

ABATE Mason-Dixon Chapter ( Fairfax , VA ) meets 8PM every 2nd and 4th Tuesday at John’s Place, 11104 Lee Hwy, Fairfax , VA 22030-5005. Everyone Welcome. For more information contact Bob Seoane at 703-206-0571 or [email protected]

ABATE Olde Dominion Chapter ( Falls Church , VA ) meets 8PM every 1st Monday at JVs Restaurant, 6666 Arlington Blvd, Falls Church , VA 22042-2145. Everyone Welcome. For more information contact Tank Fortner at 703-309-7197 or [email protected]

ABATE River City Chapter ( Richmond , VA ) ‘No meetings, just action!’ For more information contact Steve Skeens at 804-389-8293 or [email protected] ABATE Virginia Cruisers Chapter ( Hampton , VA ) meets 1PM every 1st Sunday at Mugzy’s Grill, 1312 E. Pembroke Ave, Hampton, VA. Everyone welcome. For more information contact Pete Bulgart at 757-870-1517 or John at [email protected].

American Cruisers Motorcycle Club Chapter 54 - Chesapeake, VAPresident Jack Wright (757) 465-8578, [email protected] www.americancruisers.us

American Cruisers Motorcycle Club Chapter 57 - Va. Beach,Va. President Brian Brooner, E-Mail [email protected]

Bayside Hog – Meets 7pm on 3rd Friday at Bayside Harley-Davidson

Outer Banks HOG – Meets 2pm, 1st Saturday at Outer Banks Harley-Davidson

Bikers For Christ / New River Valley Chapter (Elder) Eddie Wright. Based out of the River of Life Church 5311 Black Hollow Rd. Dublin, Va. 24084. Website www.bikersforchristNRV.com

Bikers with Heart Foundation, Inc. 501 ©3 Non-Profit Organization, Na-tional Fallen Biker Memorial Weekend, P.O. Box 291 Bryantown, MD 20617, Office: (301) 893-2900 Email: [email protected]: www.mlkm5project.com. Motto: We Ride Because We Care

Blue Knights Virginia Chapter IIIRichmond, VA (804) 379-0578

Blue Knights Law Enforcement MC/VA Chapter V – Hampton RoadsMeets 4th Wed every month 7 pm, 110 Kempsville Rd, Chesapeake, VAClub President – Susan Taylor (757) [email protected]://members.bellatlantic.net/~vze4sw29/bkva5.htm

Blue Knights Law Enforcement MC/VA VIIwww.bkvavii.org Pres. George A. Cipra

Blue Knights Law Enforcement MC/VA Chapter XYorktown, VA www.blueknightsvax.com

Blue Knights Law Enforcement MC/VA XIII Danville, Vir-ginia meets on 13th of every monthClub President - Keith Johnson www.blueknightsvaxiii.com

Blue Ridge Christian Riders CMA Chapter 264 Meets 3rd Monday of each month at 6:30pm Roanoke Valley Harley-Davidson dealership. Contact: Steve Lemay (540) 721-1969, Graffan Reynolds (540) 588-6191, Dave Miller (540) 362-3962

Bone Shaker’s Social Club ( BSSC) We meet the first Tuesday of each month at Boneshaker’s Saloon, 1297 General Booth Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23451. All meetings are open to the public and all are welcome. P.O.Box 3077, Virginia Beach, Va 23457 (757) 961-8382

Buell Owners in the DC area Meets 1st Sat, 10 am at H-D

Castaways Riding Club - Tidewater, VAMeets 3rd Weds of the month. Wherever your mind wonders…ride after it!www.castatwaysrc.com or email [email protected]

Celtic Riders East Coast Motorcycle Club Troy L. Graham, Presidentwww.celticriderseastcoast.com

SONS OF THUNDER MOTORCYCLE MINISTRIES 1509 Chesapeake Ave, Chesapeake, VA 23324 www.sonofthundermm.com [email protected] meet every first Saturday of each month at thunder alley Call for direc-tions 757-543-1857 or 757-619-4073. Also we have JC’S Fellowship Church where bikers are welcome. Come as you are – meeting place: Thunder Alley. Times: Sunday 9 am & 6 pm; Wed. 7 pm; Thurs.(Recovery Program) 7 pm. All our runs go to JC’S Recovery House – All people that we help through this house are by application and acceptance based on they’re desire for help.

Southern Cruisers Riding Club - Hill City Chapter of Lynchburg, Va. Meets the second Wednesday of every month @ Vinny’s Italian Restaurant @ 7:00pm. Please contact the following if interested. Phil Stanley-First Officer @ [email protected]. Paul King, Second Officer @ [email protected]. Please visit our web site www.hillcitycruisers.com

Southern Cruisers Riding Club - Mineral Chapter 442 Close to Lake Anna. We are Located Between Charlottesville and Richmond VA. Contact Diane at [email protected]. We have Many Miles great county roads. Southern Cruisers - Nelson County, VA Chapter #172 1st Tuesday every month@ The Lovingston Cafe, 7:00 pm. For more info contact Rhonda Ponton, 1st Officer, (434) 531-5820 or Pete Avellone at (434) 531-7916

Southern Maryland Bikers For Christ P.O Box 1107, Leonardtown, MD. 20650. Gordon Bacon, 240-577-0605, SOMDBFC.ORG Check our web site for meeting times and location.

Southern Virginia American Legion Riders We are open to all bikes & all Veterans’ & family members of Veterans. P O Box 57 Colonial Heights, VA 23834, (804) 526-4167, email: [email protected]

Star Touring & Riding Chapter 188 5461 Virginia Beach Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23462 http://vbstar.mav.net email:[email protected], contact Lisa Laufer @ (757) 646-6738 or (757)646-6734 [email protected]

Star Touring & Riding Chapter 205 - If live in the Hampton, Newport News Virginia area and looking a fun group to ride with we invite you to look us up, we are Chapter 205 of STAR Touring and Riding Association. Our chapter moto, “200 miles is not to far for lunch! “. We have two scheduled monthly ride each month and hold a business meeting the first Wednesday of each month. Our chapter is active with other local groups and support many events through out the year. Like to know more about us, check our web site at www.star205.org

Star Touring & Riding Chapter 208 - Richmond, VaMeets the 3rd Thursday each month, check the website for more info.http://richmondstar208.com/ Contact: Annette Philips, [email protected]

Star Touring and riding chapter 260 Winchester VA, meets 2nd Saturday, 9am at Golden Corral in Winchester,VA on 522. 4th Sunday rides also. Email: [email protected] for info

Star Touring & Riding Chapter 440 - North Richmond VA. Unlike some groups we encourage riders of all makes and model’s to ride with us. We enjoy the diversity! We are family-oriented and meet and ride monthly. New riders are welcome - we will coach you on safe group riding techniques and never compel you to ride beyond your comfort level. We’re a back-roads group, avoiding the interstate “slab” when we can. Ladies represent about half of our riders. Meetings are held on the second Wednesday, 7:00 PM at Topeka’s, 1776 N. Parham Road, Richmond. Topeka’s is about 1/2 mile south of I-64. If you can’t make it to meetings come out and ride with us anyway. It’s not about the meetings. For more information on meetings or rides please contact our chapter president, Mark Johnson, at [email protected] or go the www.star440.org

TAMA – Tidewater Albemarle Motorcycle Association. ALL clubs or any organization that hosts rides/events are welcome to attend. Come out & meet some good people from all around the area. We’re all working together so that each one our rides/events can be scheduled not to conflict with others & then we can all have a successful turnout. Our meetings are held @ 7PM on the 3rd Thursday of every month (except December) at the Golden Corral, on the corner of Volvo Pkwy & Battlefield Blvd in Chesapeake, VA

Virginia Bikers Association Inc. P. O. Box 1591, Hillsville, VA 24343, www.vabikersassoc.org, email: [email protected] Virginia Freedom Riders P O Box 1387, Suffolk, VA 23439-1387 www.vfr.race.com President: Bernie Adams Email: [email protected] Member-ship Officer: Sandy Cartwright email: [email protected]

V MAX Owners Association Eric Ellerman- Regional Director, 8009 Robin-crest Ct., Fuquay Varina, NC 27526 (919) 567-1991 home, (919) 244-4660 cell, 150*132514*24 Nextel Direct Connect Jimmy Rey - Chapter Leader Virginia/District of Columbia, 5901 Atteentee Rd Springfield, VA. 22150-3906, Day: 703-560-0600 x 15, Cell: 703-618-2333 Tony Waterman - Charlotte, NC Chapter Leader, 6144 Roseway Ct., Harrisburg , NC. 28075-6509, Eve: 704-454-5753

Williamsburg Riders MC ClubWe meet at the Capitol Pancake and Waffle House at 800 Capitol Landing Road, Williamsburg, VA on the 2nd Sunday of each month (except May which is on the 2nd Sat. due to Mother’s day) at 9am for breakfast & leave by 10 am (unless earlier time is set by ride leader). We are usually headed off for a ride of about 75 – 300 miles depending upon the weather and who shows up to ride. The club is open to all makes of motorcycles and all abilities are welcome. Contact John Heckman www.williamsburgriders.org

Wings Over History Gold Wing Road Riders Assoc.Appalachian Region N. Virginia District Georgia & Ken Sladak, Directors, 9612 Alfaree Rd., Richmond, VA 23237

Women on Wheels www.womenonwheels.org NOW FORMING VA CHAP-TER Call (800) 322-1969 or email: [email protected]

Central Virginia Chapter of the Victory Motorcycle ClubBill Robinson, Chapter President Email: [email protected]: (804)339-3784 Home: (804) 737-7910

Central VA Trail Riders Meets 7 pm on 1st & 3rd Tues.At a Richmond Rest. Info: (804) 272-8038

Christian Motorcyclist Association Northern Virginia Chapter 348www.nvcrcma.com NVCR meets 3rd Sat each month @ Old Country Buffet in Manassas @ 9:00 am, President – Rick Saunders, [email protected]

CMA/Beacons of Tidewater (Hampton Roads area) Meets 2nd Monday of each month, except Dec. @ Piccadilly Restaurant, 530 N. Military Hwy, Norfolk, VA (across from the Dump). President, Lenny Stowell, [email protected] or (757) 420-4411.

Concours Owners Group COG – Northeast Area www,concours.org/ne Mid-Atlantic Region Luray, VA #1887 Patrick Sprague (540) 743-4874Email: [email protected]

Cruiser Club USA Chapter 30 - Farmville, Va 23901Meets 3rd Sunday @ 2PM-next door to the Post Office, Rice, VA 23966Jimmy Adams, Club President, [email protected], CCUSA30.com

Down By Law 757 MC Club www.downbylaw-mc.com President – “Quiet Storm” Email: [email protected]

EZRR Club, Inc. Richmond, VA Info: (804) 932-4784/www.riders-inc.com

Fire and Iron Station 161 Firefighters MC located in Northern Virginia Fire and Iron Station 161 is a group of Firefighters and other members associ-ated with the fire service, who loves to ride and have a good time. Our club prides itself in its effort to support various charitable organizations and support other clubs while remaining a neutral motorcycle club. Each member of Fire and Iron FFMC shares a passion for the brotherhood of the fire service, the motorcycling community and the call of the open road.For more information, contact President George Smith at [email protected]

Flaming Knights MC - Norfolk Chapter www.FKMCNORFOLKVA.comFlaming Knights Norfolk P.O. BOX 7022 Norfolk, VA 23509

GWRRA chapter K of Roanoke Meets 3rd Thursday, Holiday Inn AirportWeb address: http://www.communities.msn.com/GWRRAVAKChapter Directors: Jerry & Linda Hall (540) 387-0897

Hampton Roads Southern Cruisers Riding Club Chapter #26Website http//bikers.crusading.org/ “Cruiser” Mosher 1st Officer [email protected]

Heaven Bound Bikers Meets 2nd Sat. each month 9am riders in South Hill (434) 372-3785 a great ride after each meeting

Heaven’s Saints Motorcycle Ministry 4181 Worsham Rd. Powhatan, Va 23139 (804) 598-9026; [email protected] www.heavenssaints.com

Honda Riders Club (HRC), Appalachian M/CMeetings & open rides on 4th Sundays, 11 am at Loudoun Motorsports in Leesburg, VA Info: (703) 777-1652

Honda Riders Club (HRC) Manassas Honda Rider’s Club Meets 1st Tues 7:30 pm Stonewall Jackson VFD 7814 Garner Road, Manassas, VA Info: (703)361-2233

Iron Horse Ministries Meets the last Friday of every month at 7:00pm; room 235 in the LCA building at Thomas Road Baptist Church on Candlers Moun-tain Rd. in Lynchburg VA. We also have a Biker Bible Study every Sunday morning at 9:30 in the same room. For more information contact Pastor Steve at [email protected] or call him at (530)305-4095.

LadyRiders, Inc. Motorcycle Club - Northern Virginia Area Meets 2nd Monday of the month, schedules rides 4th wked of month See www.ladyriderinc.com or write [email protected]

Queen Beez Motorcycle & Social Association www.queenbeezmsa.com P O Box 35396 Richmond, VA 23235 [email protected]

Red Knights Motorcycle Club, Chapter 4, Virginia Beach Meets on the first Tuesday of the month. For information and location of the next meeting, call David J. (President) @ 757-816-1194, or Gordon W. @ 757-439-0167

Richmond Riders www.richmondriders.com 2nd Sunday every month meets for Bikes in the Bottom 9:30am Poe’s Pub on Main St. Contact Jason [email protected]

Rolling Thunder® Inc. - Chapter 4 VA Meets 3rd Sunday every month at 2PM in the Moose Lodge #715, located at 2307 Lakeside Drive, Lynchburg VA. Public welcome. Website www.rollingthunderch4va.com

Rolling Thunder,® Inc. - VA Chapter 5 Meetings are held every 2nd Sunday of the month @ American Legion, Post 2, 820 Winfield Road, Petersburg, VA 23803. Mailing address: P. O. Box 6614Richmond, Va. 23230. Mike Walton, President (804) 514-9123

Shenandoah Valley HOG Monthly meeting @ Verona, Va. Moose alternates 2nd Sunday next month 2nd Tuesday. hog hotline (540) 946-9992, www.shenandoahhog.com

Sisters of Chrome Women Motorcycle Club/Maryland Women Content to grabbing the handlebars and steering our own motorcycles. www.sistersofchromemc.com . Contact Sugar Bear [email protected] or (410) 477-5557.


Dress up your Turkey – If you want to add a special dressing to your Thanksgiving turkey (& we’re not talking about stuffing), just cut out aluminum foil in whatever shapes you prefer & lay them over your turkey as it’s roasting.

It’s Time For Thanksgiving!

From All Of Us Here At Thunder Roads

Mid-Atlantic

Happy Thanksgiving


A woman was in a coma. She had been in it for months. Nurses were in her room giving her a bed bath. One of them was washing her private area and noticed that there was a slight response on the monitor whenever she touched her there. They tried it again and sure enough, there was definite movement. They went to her husband, PanHead, a true biker and explained what happened, tell-ing him, ‘As crazy as this sounds, maybe a little ‘oral sex’ will do the trick & bring her out of the coma.’ PanHead was skeptical, but they assured him that they would close the curtains for privacy. PanHead finally agreed and went into his wife’s room. After a few minutes the woman’s monitor flat-lined, no pulse, no heart rate. The nurses run back into the room. ‘What happened!?’ they cried. PanHead replied, ‘I’m not sure….maybe she choked.’

The teacher was reading the story of the ThreeLittle Pigs to her class. She came to the part of the storywhere first pig was trying to gather the building materials for his home. She read . ‘and so the pig went up to the man with the wheelbarrow full of straw and said: ‘Pardon me sir, but may I have some of that straw to build my house?’ The teacher paused then asked the class: ‘Andwhat do you think the man said?’ Lil’ Johnny raised his hand and said very matter-of-factly ...’I think the man would have said - Well, f*%# me!! A talking pig!’ The teacher was snickering so bad she had to leave the room.

A man was laying in bed with his new girlfriend. After having great sex, she spent the next hour just scratching his nuts—something she seemed to love to do. As he was enjoying it, he turned and asked her, ‘Why do you love do-ing that?’ ‘Because,’ she replied, ‘Sometimes, I honestly do miss mine.’

Woman has Man in it; Mrs. has Mr. in it; Female has Male in it; She has HE in it; Madam has Adam in it; MEN tal illness MEN strual cramps MEN tal breakdown MEN opause GUY necologist AND ... When we have REAL trouble, it’s a HIS terectomy. Ever notice how all of women’s problems start with MEN?

If your dog is barking at the back door and your wife is yelling at the front door, who do you let in first? The dog, of course. He’ll shut up once you let him in.

This happened about a month ago just outside of Memphis , a small town on the banks of the Mississippi River , and while it sounds like an Alfred Hitchcock tale, it’s indeed real. A New Yorker was walking along the side of the road hitchhiking on a dark night in the middle of a thunderstorm. Time passed slowly and no cars went by It was raining so hard he could barley see his hand in front of his face. Suddenly he saw a car approaching, moving slowly and appearing ghostlike in the rain. It slowly and silently crept toward him and stopped. Wanting a ride very badly, the guy jumped into the car and closed the door; only then did he realize that there was nobody be-hind the wheel, and no sound of the engine to be heard over the rain. Again the car crept slowly forward and guy was terrified, too scared to think of jumping out and run-ning. The guy saw that the car was approaching a sharp curve and, still too scared to jump out, he started to pray and beg for his life. He was certain the ghost car would go off the road and into the river, and he would surely drown! But just before the curve, a shadowy figure ap-peared at the driver’s window and a hand reached in and turned the steering wheel, guiding the car safely around the bend. Then, just as silently, the hand disappeared through the window and the hitchhiker was alone again. Paralyzed with fear, the guy watched the hand reappear every time they reached a curve. Finally the guy, fright-ened nearly to death, had all he could take and jumped out of the car and ran through the storm to the nearby town. Wet and in shock, he went into a lighted tavern and with voice quavering, ordered two shots of whiskey, and then, shaken, he told everybody about his supernatural experience. A silence came over those listening and everybody got goose bumps. They realized the guy was sober and was telling the truth. And the sounds of the storm continued outside. About half an hour later, two guys walked into the bar and one says to the other, ‘Look Jay-Bo, there’s that idiot that rode in our car while we was pushin’ it in the rain.

Little Bubba was sitting on the curb with a quart jar of turpentine and shaking it up and watching all the bubbles.A little while later a Priest came along and asked the Little Bubba what he had. Little Bubba replied, ‘This is the most powerful liquid in the world, it’s called turpentine.’ The Priest said, ‘No, the most powerful liquid in the world is Holy Water. If you take some of this Holy Water and rub it on a pregnant woman’s belly, she’ll pass a healthy baby.’Little Bubba quickly responded, ‘Oh yeah. Well, you take some of this here turpentine and rub it on a cat’s ass, and he’ll pass a Harley Davidson.’


In The DayBACK

Green Tea

Research continually shows that green tea and green tea extract improve cognitive learning, relax the brain, and increase mental alertness. That’s partially due to the fact that green tea is loaded with antioxidants that help oxygen circulate. Dark-green leafy vegetables are another brain-happy food. The iron in them improves concentration, mental sharpness and cognitive development. And FYI, iron is absorbed best when paired with foods rich in vitamin C (like tomatoes and citrus fruits).

GOOD FOR YOU!

TELL US WHERE YOU WOULD LIKE TO PICK

UP YOUR FREE COPY OF THUNDER ROADS! Just drop us an email

[email protected]


Freedom Relief Ride VIIFreedom Relief Ride VII

Shenandoah Harley-Davidson-Staunton, VAIt is a rare and beautiful thing to be able to help oth-ers. Oftentimes they are small acts of kindness that go unrecognized. Yet other times they are something that enriches many more on a grand level. I cannot begin to express my respect, and gratitude to every-one that helped make Freedom Relief Ride VII a suc-cess. To all the volunteers who took time out of theirbusy schedule to make Sunday possible THANK YOU!!!! You are what enabled that day to be so enjoy-able for so many veterans. To all the businesses that donated, and to the wonderful officers that gave their time, THANK YOU.Without the work of so many, this event would have never happened. And I for one am so thankful that it did.

Bob Ladd & The Staff of Shenandoah Harley-Davidson


It’s important for you to know who your friends are out there when you hit the road! Welcome to our Biker

Friendly Directory. The following is a list of establishments throughout the

Mid-Atlantic that want you to know that they’re here for YOU. Whether it’s a bike dealer, service shop, restaurant, bar or any other type of business that

welcomes our biking 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, throughout this listing. All of our friends listed are “Biker Friendly” & most

of them ride too, so they know exactly what you want & need. The staff here at Thunder Roads greatly appreciates of all of our advertiser’s continuous

support each month - they are the sole financial supporters of this magazine.

WE WOULD NOT EXIST WITHOUT THEM! So please give them the support that they truly deserve for being with us &

drop by to see them for a visit. Let them know that you saw them here in Thunder

Roads. If you know of a business that would like to join our Thunder Roads family of Biker Friendly Places, please give us a call (757) 831-2264 or email

[email protected]. “Where There’s Bikes….There’s Going To Be Thunder - THUNDER ROADS”

DEALERS & SERVICES

Maryland

All American Harley-Davidson8126 Leonardtown Rd.Hughesville, MD 20637

(888) 833-2REVwww.allamericanh-d.com

Harley Davidson of Washington9407 Livingston Rd.Ft. Washington, MD

(888) HDFEVERwww.hdwash.com

Harley-Davidson/Buell of Ocean City

10716 Ocean GatewayBerlin, MD

(410) 629-1599

Harley-Davidson/Buell Shop of Williamsport

10210 Governor Lane Blvd Suite 2004

Williamsport, MD 21795(301) 223-1800 or (301) 416-3900

Haus of Trikes36350 South Dupont Highway

Selbyville, DE 19975(800) 499-2283 or

(302) 436-7400www.hausoftrikes.com

North Carolina

Kitty Hawk Harley-Davidson8739 Highway 158

Harbinger, NC 27941(252) 491-2091

www.kittyhawkhd.com

Nag’s Head Harley-Davidson4104 S. Dare Trail

Milepost 13 (Highway 159 Bypass)Nags Head, NC 27959

(252) 255-5922www.nagsheadhd.com

Outer Banks Harley-Davidson1223 U.S. Highway 17 South

Elizabeth City, NC 27909(252) 338-8866

www.outerbankshd.com

Virginia

AccuTRAKWorld’s Finest Stabilizers

www.BAGGERSPEED.COM(540) 420-1850

Bad Mo’s Custom CyclesCustom Building/Rebuilding

Fabricating & Painting Virginia Beach, VA

(757) 237-2340 or (757) 685-9697

Bayside Harley-Davidson2211 Frederick Blvd

Portsmouth, VA 23704I-264 Exit 5

757 397-5550Fax 757 397-5513

www.harleybay.com

Black Wolf Harley-Davidson18100 Black Wolf Lane

Abington, VA 24211(276) 628-5822

Boyce Performance Cycles 3525 Martin Johnson Rd. Chesapeake, VA. 23323 Phone (757) 477-6168

Burcham Cycles, Inc.2000 Waterside Road

Prince George, VA 23875 (804) 526-2300

www.burchamscycles.com

Chix Custom Cycles3745 Shore DriveVirginia Beach, VA

(757) 363-2453www.chixcustomcycles.com

Coleman Power Sports 435 S. Washington St.

Falls Church, VA(800) 888-3619

www.wherethepoweris.com

Coleman Power Sports 14105 Telegraph Rd.

Woodbridge, VA (703) 497-1500

www.wherethepoweris.com

Departure Bike Works5216 Hull St

Richmond, VA 23224(804) 231-0244

www.departure.com

Early’s Cycle Center, Inc.Virginia’s Leading Yamaha Dealer

1921 South High StreetHarrisonburg, VA 22801www.earlyscycle.com

East Coast Harley/Buell17975 Main Street

Dumfries, VA(703) 221-3757

Full House Cycles100 Full House Drive

Winchester, VA 540-667-0088

Gary’s Automotive Again23220 Airport Street

Petersburg, VA 23803(804) 733-8644

Grove’s Winchester Harley-Davidson/Buell, Inc.140 Independence Drive

(Route 50 East)Winchester, VA 22602

(540) 662-4468

Hampton Roads Harley-Davidson/Buell

6450 George Washington Memorial Highway

Yorktown, VA(757) 872-7223

Harley-Davidson of Lynchburg20452 Timberlake Road

Lynchburg, VA434-237-2381

Harley-Davidson of Wytheville 430 Lithia RoadWytheville, VA 276-228-9000

HOPAR’S21771 Timberlake Road

Lynchburg, VA 24502(434) 455-2143

&5411 Williamson RoadRoanoke, VA 24012

(540) 362-0140

Iron Core 977 Chimney Hill Shopping Center

Virginia Beach, VA 23452-3048(757) 631-8393

Jim McClure'sMaster Performance Cycles

3707 Rochambeau Dr.Williamsburg Va. 23188

757 566-0544 Fax [email protected]

Outlanders4768 US Highway 211 West

Luray, VA 22835(540) 743-2040

www.outlanders.wsemail: [email protected]

Patriot Harley-Davidson9739 Lee Highway

Fairfax, VA(703) 352-5400

Revolutionary Harley-Davidson6401 Richmond RdLightfoot, VA 23090

(757) 565-5122

Richmond Harley-Davidson10441 Washington Highway

Glen Allen, VA(804) 550-9280

Roanoke Valley Harley-Davidson/Buell1925 Peters Creek Road

Roanoke, VA 24017(540) 562-5424

Rob’s Used Harley Parts2617 Fox Mill Rd.Reston, VA 20191 (703) 476-6607

www.robsusedharleyparts.com

Shenandoah Harley-Davidson/Buell213 Rolling Thunder Lane

Staunton, VA(540) 213-7433

www.shenhd.com

Southside Harley-Davidson/Buell, Inc.385 North Witchduck Rd

Virginia Beach, VA (757) 499-8964

South Richmond Harley-Davidson Shop10011 Hull Street

Richmond, VA(804) 745-3445

Thunder Road Harley-Davidson4960 Riverside Drive

Danville, VA 24541-5630(434) 822-BIKE (2453)

www.davishd.com

Tidewater Motorcycles Inc.4324 Godwin Blvd

Suffolk, VA (757) 255-4200

Waugh Enterprises385 Waugh Boulevard

Orange, VA(540) 672-5550

Whitt’s Harley-Davidson/Buell Sales, Inc.9321 Center Street

Manassas, VA(703) 369-7077

www.whittshd.com

West Virginia

Cole Harley-Davidson 1804 Bland St.

Bluefield, WV 24701(304) 324-8116

Mike’s Harley-DavidsonRoute 1 Box 401H

Preece Bottom RoadDelbarton, WV 25670

(304) 475-0123

LEGAL SERVICES

MarylandStahl & Block, LLC

66 Painters Mill Rd. Suite 202 Owings Mills, MD 21117

(800) 875-6554www.stahlandblock.com

Virginia

Epstein, Sandler & Flora P.C.413 W. York StreetNorfolk, VA 236101-800-9-THE-LAW

The Law Office of Tom McGrath1-800-321-8968

www.motorcyclevirginia.com

BIKER ACCESSORIES, APPAREL, LEATHERS & GIFTS

Virginia

BikerCrap.comWild & Sexy Riding & Rally Apparel

Diva Customs501 17th St.

Virginia Beach, VA 23451(757) 428-DIVA

www.divacustoms.com

BIKER FRIENDLY DIRECTORY

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE �0

Fast Lane Biker Gear & Accessories166 S. Rosemont Rd. Ste. G

Virginia Beach, VA 23452(757) 340-4446

Harley-Haven1920Atlantic Ave

Virginia Beach, VA(757) 425-2458

Leather Motorcycle Jackets and Apparel www.leathermotorcyclejacketsandapparel.com

Renegade Classics14575 Jefferson Davis Hwy

Woodbridge, VA 22191703-499-9533

www.nova.rcosva.com

Tire World2087 S. Amherst Hwy Ste 100

Amherst, VA 24521-3353(434) 946-1110

INSURANCE

Clark Insurance Agency4709 Mason Rest Ct.

Richmond, VA (804) 271-1961

BARS & RESTAURANTS

North Carolina

Barry’s Walnut Island Restaurant, Lodge,Sports Center & Marina169 Walnut Island Blvd

Grandy, NC 27939(252) 453-4153

www.outerbanksbikerally.com

Virginia

Baker Street1920 Centerville Turnpike #101

Virginia Beach, VA 23464(757) 479-4480

Boneshakers Saloon1297 General Booth BlvdVirginia Beach, VA 23451

(757) 961-8382www.boneshakerssaloon.com

Damon & Company Sports Bar & Grill7104 George Washington Mem. Hwy, Rt

17 NorthGloucester, VA (804) 693-7218

www.damonsbar.com

Dirty Dick’s Crab HouseRudee Inlet

Virginia Beach, VA(757) 491-DICK

Hogs Gon Wild BBQ, IncRestaurant, Bar and Catering

3184 King William Ave. West Point, Va 23181

(804) 843-9212

Hoss’s Deli 806 Old Oyster Point Newport News, VA

(757) 596-9104

Marilyn’s Hot Rod Café4207 Wards RdLynchburg, VA(434) 832-1555

Knuckleheads Roadhouse401 North Witchduck RoadVirginia Beach, VA 23462

(757) 644-6200www.knuckleheadsvb.com

Mary Jayne’s Lazy Horse Bar & Grill

565 Cedar RoadChesapeake, Va 23322

(757) 549-0367

Randzz Restaurant & Pub6001 Holland Rd.Suffolk, VA 23437(757) 657-9331

EVERY NIGHT IS BIKE NIGHT!

Sharky's Bar & Billiards 4032A Cox Road Suite A

Glen Allen VA 23060 Phone 273-1888

Fax 273-1828 www.sharkysinnsbrook.net

Sportsman Restaurant3306 Williamsburg Rd.Richmond, VA 23231

(804) 236-1911

The Village Grill 4337 Old Hundred Rd

Chester, Va 23831804-768-5900

West Virginia

Fat Boys Pork PalaceSpecializing in hand Pulled

Carolina Style BBQFoot of the mountain Rt 33

Brandywine WV (304) 249-7025 www.Pendletoncounty.net

MOTORCYCLE RACING & EVENTS

Maryland International Racewaywww.mirdrag.com

Virginia Motorsports Park8018 Boydton Plank Rd.Petersburg, VA 23803

(804) 862-3174www.vmpdrag.com

MOTORCYCLE RENTALS

Virginia

Eagle Rider Winchester140 Independence DrWinchester, VA 22602

(540) 662-9292www.EagleRiderWinchester.com

Harley-Davidson/Buell of Ocean City

10716 Ocean GatewayBerlin, MD

(410) 629-1599

Kitty Hawk Harley-Davidson8739 Caratoke Highway

Harbinger, NC 27941252 491-2091

www.kittyhawkhd.comShenandoah

Harley-Davidson/Buell213 Rolling Thunder Lane

Staunton, VA 24401(540) 213-8026

www.shenandoahhd.com

FUN PLACES TO STAY

North Carolina

Barry’s Walnut Island Restaurant, Lodge,

Sports Center & Marina169 Walnut Island Blvd

Grandy, NC 27939(252) 453-4153

www.outerbanksbikerally.com

Comfort Inn Oceanfront South 8031 Old Oregon Inlet Road

Nags Head, NC(800) 334-3302

Virginia

Rockahock Campgrounds1428 Outpost RdLanexa, VA 23089

(804) 966-2759www.rockahock.com

PERSONAL SERVICES

Kuttin Stationfor all your hair needs!!

13509 Boydton Plank Road (Route 1)Dinwiddie, VA 23841

Biker Specials!(804) 469-9003

PHOTOGRAPHY

Fisher Productionswww.fisherproductionsonline.com

Motorcycle & Auto portraitsLeading the way in Sport

Photography(804) 720-1049

SPORT FISHING

CHARTER BOAT “AMETHYST”Indian River Inlet,

Rehoboth Beach, DE Tuna * Dolphin * Shark * King

Mackerel *Sea Bass

* Croaker * FlounderSince 1984 1-800-999-8119www.atbeach.com/amethyst

Email: [email protected]

TATTOO STUDIOS

City Limits Tattoo & Piercing, Ltd.119D Boulevard

Colonial Heights, VA 23834(804) 504-0600

www.citylimitstattoo.com

TRAILER SALES

Open Road Outfitters45763 Elmwood Court

Sterling, VA 201661(800) 541-6736

[email protected]

BIKER FRIENDLY DIRECTORY

MOTORPSYCHICwww.myspace.com/motorpsychicband

Contact Jimmy [email protected]

www.myspace.com/jimmykwilliams

********************************THE WHITE OAK BAND

Specializing in Southern, Classic & Modern Rock

The White Oak band is available for Rally's, Private And Corporate

functions as well as a variety of Rockin entertainment venues. For Booking Info Call (540) 899-3620

or (540) 220-4825www.myspace.com/whiteoakband

*********************************RHYTHM PIGS

A Southern Rock & Blues BandContact:

Tim Fodrey 757-749-5741 Cell 757-961-9020 Office

[email protected]

Thunder Jams


Tattoo ofthe Month

Robbie Kneivel Gets Thunder RoadsShouldn’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

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Biker Pals

Rough HalloweenTHUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE �2

Hi Y`all,Well this is my latest scoot. It took about 4 months to finish and it turned out perfect . It’s got a zero up, zero out frame and a 32 degree neck . The motor is a 113 inch El Bruto with a 6spd transmission and a 3 inch open belt primary. The front end is a chrome, zero stretch, springer with a one of a kind brake caliper. The pipes are “Ghetto Blasters” with WBC exhaust flaps, and they are not quiet by any means. The wheels are both 60 twisted spoke with a 21 in the front and a 16 in the rear. The frame and oil tank and handle bars were all powder coated by Powder Performance of Richmond. The paint was done by a friend of mine in Cave Creek Arizona and the metal flake flames look great. I made the handle bars and the seat and brackets as well as the gas tank mounts and all the rest of it. This has been a really fun bike and man is it fast with loads of power . I’ve already sold it & now I’m starting on a new one. Thanks to all my Brothers who helped out and to Taylor Mangan for the cool pics.

See ya around, Morgan WulfgarWelshBoyCycles(804)304-8505

M Y L A T E S T S C O O T


News Bytes News BytesAIM ATTORNEY FIRST TO SUE MYRTLE BEACH OVER ANTI-BIKER LAWS Aid to Injured Motorcyclists (AIM) At-torney Tom McGrath filed the first lawsuit against the city of Myrtle Beach , S.C. challenging the constitutionality of two of over a dozen new anti-biker ordinances passed to shut down motorcycle rallies. The suit filed September 29 in Horry County ‘s 15th Judicial Circuit on behalf of two Myrtle Beach residents and motorcyclists, William and Carol O’Day, challenges the city’s new helmet law and noise ordinances. The suit questions whether it’s within the city’s “home rule” authority to supersede state law in both cases.Both municipal ordinances, according to the lawsuit, are unconstitutional and in violation of South Carolina state law. ‘’It’s pretty simple,’’ said Tom McGrath, whose Motorcycle Law Group based out of Richmond, Virginia, filed the suit. “It’s really a question of whether it’s constitutional. Does state law prevail?’’ “Home Rule doesn’t allow a city to pass laws that are inconsistent with state law in areas where the state has already acted,” he explained. “And South Carolina already has a helmet law for riders 21 and younger, and they already have a muffler statute in state law.” McGrath is a graduate of the University of South Carolina and is licensed in the State of South Carolina as well as Virginia and Tennessee . As an avid motorcyclist and motorcycle rights activist, Tom founded the Virginia Coalition of Mo-torcyclists and provides legal counsel to ABATE of Virginia . “We go fight for the rights of people,” he added, “that’s what we do…that’s the kind of firm we are.” Two additional lawsuits, both filed in federal court on behalf of local busi-nesses, have since been filed against Myrtle Beach in response to the city council’s unanimous approval of 15 new laws aimed to crack down on a 70-year tradition of mo-torcycle rallies in the city, which include restricting vendor permits, imposing liability on promoters, limited bike park-ing, more restrictive loitering and public drinking laws, and other regulations designed to dissuade rally-goers. Among other arguments, the federal lawsuits claim the ordinances are vague, interfere with people’s First Amendment rights, do irreparable harm to businesses and interferes with inter-state commerce. Law enforcement began enforcing some of the new laws at roadblocks set up recently during the Fall “Pilgrimage” Bike Rally, prompting many bikers to skirt the city in protest and spent their time and money at other nearby rally locations, such as Myrtle Beach Harley-David-son, where a sign warned riders that city limits were 200 feet ahead. Meanwhile, Myrtle Beach is lobbying other local municipalities and the county to enact similar ordinances.“ABATE of South Carolina abhors these types of totalitarian enactments that remove liberties and freedoms of individu-als and eventually, will start eroding individual rights granted to us under our Constitution,” said the state motorcycle rights organization in a press release. “ABATE of South Carolina challenges the council on the grounds that the municipal power is exceeding the entity’s corporate powers, acting as if it is above state law.” The Carolina Harley-Da-vidson Dealers Association Spring Rally has been a fixture in Myrtle Beach for 68 years, and is the oldest, continuous running motorcycle rally in the country, but the city council decided to get rid of all bike rallies following complaints

from residents, primarily during the Atlantic Beach BikeFest attended mostly by black urban sportbike riders, after efforts to police the event led to several discrimination lawsuits filed by the NAACP, which were eventually settled out of court.

DOT PROPOSES NEW FEDERAL SAFETY RULES TO BAR NOVELTY HELMETS The best-selling motorcycle-helmet decals at a popular biker website include fake bullet holes, skull and crossbones, the American flag -- and $1 stickers that say “DOT”. The latter has created a problem for U.S. highway safety regulators, because fake Depart-ment of Transportation stickers can be used to counterfeit safety certification of cheap novelty motorcycle helmets, which they claim are one cause of rising accident fatalities.“We’re proposing new safety rules to make it harder for ven-dors to sell unsafe novelty helmets or for riders to get away with wearing them,” said Transportation Secretary Mary Peters, herself a Harley rider. “We are proposing to do that by requiring manufacturers to place a larger, tamper-proof DOT label on the back of certified helmets that have been through a wider range of safety tests.” The current federal standard, implemented in 1974, requires a DOT emblem on the rear of the helmet, indicating it passed certification tests. Manufacturer and model data are located on a label inside the helmet. The new proposal calls for a DOT-symbol decal to be applied to the helmet beneath its clear coating, with the manufacturer’s name and helmet model added above the symbol and the word “certified” below it. The new rule also would refine the tests manufacturers do to certify their helmets to meet DOT standards for impact, penetration and retention. Novelty helmets, which have thin protective liners, failed all the federal performance tests, said Stephen Kratzke, associate administrator for rule mak-ing at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, but when police spot a helmet that doesn’t look like the real thing, riders can claim they thought the DOT sticker meant it was certified. Sellers of the labels say it stands for “Doing Our Thing”. “It makes it really hard to enforce helmet laws,” said Kratzke. The goal of the new rule is “to make sure in helmet-law states it is easier for police to enforce the law.”NHTSA estimates that 15% of the motorcycle riders in the 20 mandatory helmet law states wear “beanie” helmets that don’t meet the current FMVSS218 federal standard. “It’s a political statement against the helmet laws,” said Eric Anderson, chairman of an industry helmet task force. “It’s fashionable to be anti-helmet.” Regulators estimate it would cost manufacturers, who turn out 5.2 million certified helmets annually, only about 2 cents each or $100,000 to comply with the new rule. Motorcycle groups said the time and money would be better spent, and more lives saved, through rider education and motorist awareness programs. Public comments will be taken until Dec. 1.

ABATE OF NEW YORK TO PICKET SAFETY CONFERENCE ABATE of New York announced their intention to picket the NY Highway Safety Conference, October 21st, in Syra-cuse, where the New York State Police are presenting their Motorcycle Safety Roadblock Scenario to more than 350

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE ��

News Bytes News Bytesprofessionals from local, state, federal and private agencies “involved in the effort to reduce deaths and injuries related to traffic crashes.” ABATE of New York has obtained an all-day public assembly permit to conduct an informational picket/protest outside of the Conference Center to express their dissatisfaction with motorcycle-only roadblocks, as well as draw public attention to the irony of New York State’s misdirection of designated motorcycle safety funds to those very same enforcement tactics being promoted at the conference. With support from ABATE of NY and in coop-eration with the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM), A.I.M. Attorney (Aid to Injured Motorcyclists) Mitchell Proner recently put the NY State Police and DMV on notice that a class action suit will be filed in protest of the discrimi-natory road checks being conducted on state highways during events that draw thousands of motorcyclists. “Since motorcycles operated in New York are already required to pass annual safety inspections, the current NYSP initia-tive serves only to harass, intimidate and inconvenience motorcyclists, and is an abuse of discretionary power as specifically acknowledged by the New York State Court of Appeals,” said ABATE in a statement.

WYOMING BIKERS FEND OFF NOISE ORDINANCEA proposed noise ordinance is on the “back burner” after scores of motorcyclists flooded the Casper City Council chambers. The council voted unanimously and to a rau-cous applause to table the proposed change to a noise ordinance, which means it will not be discussed again un-less a council member brings it back. The proposed change read: “No person shall operate any motor vehicle in the city in such a manner that the public’s attention is drawn to the noise created by the motor vehicle.” One biker after another spoke before the council to testify about how “loud pipes save lives.” Loud exhaust keeps drivers aware of bikers and prevent accidents, said Jim Siri, a member of Wyoming Central A.B.A.T.E., a motorcycle advocacy group. “Many things distract drivers, and if they aren’t paying attention they won’t always see motorcyclists, but they may still hear them,” he told the Jackson Hole Star-Tribune. Abuse of a motorcycle on city streets is unacceptable, but motorcyclists also don’t want to be unfairly targeted, said Russ Reddick, vice-president of Wyoming State A.B.A.T.E. and co-director of the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM) in region three. He told the newspaper that he wants to educate rid-ers on how to ride respectfully and also educate drivers on how to be more aware of motorcyclists. Motorcyclists and the council plan to work together to help solve “irrespon-sible riding” through residential neighborhoods, both groups agreed.

ABATE OF CALIFORNIA JOINS NCOM The National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM) proudly welcomes ABATE of California as the newest NCOM Member Group, joining in unity with over 2,000 rider groups, clubs and associations, including motorcycle rights organizations from 38 states and over 50 Confederations of Clubs from 35 states. NCOM is a nationwide umbrella organization that provides legislative assistance, information network

and legal resources, and also reaches out to the Christian Motorcycling community, women riders, sport bikers, clean & sober groups and minority motorcyclists -- helping to form coalitions and foster cooperation between all segments of motorcycle riders. Following is an open letter received October 1, 2008 from Tim Tennimon, Executive Director of ABATE Of California, Inc., with a request to forward it on: ABATE of California Inc., is resolute in our commitment to move forward and stand strong in the motorcycle rights movement. With mounting pressure from state and federal agencies we are facing motorcycle smog laws, low noise ordinances, a motorcycle safety summit that is working in conjunction with the CHP and NHTSA to impose more restrictions on riding your motorcycle, helmet laws and cit-ies that want to limit gatherings by motorcyclists. In order to strengthen our position we are committed to working with all MRO’s including NCOM, MRF, AMA, MMA and any state motorcycle rights organizations that strengthens our lobby on legislative issues and on motorcycle safety. Our united front with these other MROs make us better prepared to attack issues on a broader scope by having access to legal assistance, promoting the sharing of information among the SMROs and different groups, supporting and increas-ing political and legal effectiveness through free assistance with legislative strategy, safety projects, public awareness, information updates and assistance in both the legislative and judicial arenas. We are proud of our alliance with these organizations and look forward to the success that this col-lective effort is sure to bring.

WEIRD NEWS: NBA PLAYER SUSPENDED OVER MO-PED ACCIDENT The Golden State Warriors suspended 22-year old guard Monta Ellis for 30 games without pay for violating his contract after he seriously injured his ankle in a Moped accident and then compounded his mistake by lying about spraining his ankle playing pickup ball. The high-scor-ing high-paid guard probably never imagined that trouble would cost him about $3 million - there’s no doubt Ellis violated Paragraph 12 of the NBA’s uniform player Contract, which prohibits a player from engaging “in any activity that a Reasonable person would recognize as involving or expos-ing the Participant to a substantial risk of bodily injury,” in-cluding “driving Or riding a motorcycle or Moped.” Ellis, who agreed to a six-year deal worth $66 million in July, under-went surgery to repair a torn ligament and is unlikely to be healthy enough to return before mid-December anyway, but the suspension means the guard won’t be paid during his absence. He was the second-leading scorer for the NBA’s highest-scoring team last season, averaging 20.2 points, 5.0 rebounds and 3.4 assists.

QUOTABLE QUOTE: “People often say that, in a democ-racy, decisions are made by a majority of the people. Of course, that is not true. Decisions are made by a majority of those who make themselves heard and who vote - a very different thing.”Walter H. Judd (1898-1994) politician, 1981 recipient of Presidential Medal of Freedom


POINTMAN PERSPECTIVEGRACIOUS PEOPLE IN WONDERFUL CAUSES Over this past year I have been telling you about my involvement with Wreaths Across America. On the second Saturday of each December veterans groups, Scouts, Civil Air Patrol, Patriot Guard Riders, and a host of others gather at state and national cemeteries across the country and lay Christmas wreaths at the grave site of the fallen soldiers. As a veteran I have been moved to tears to see young children laying wreaths as their parents explain that a real person is buried under the head stone and this person gave his / her life for their country. I watched a World War ll vet place a wreath as a tears slowly rolled down his face. Wreaths Across America has been one of the defining moments in my life and I am so grateful that I have been able to be a small part of these very blessed events. The ceremonies are going on all over the country and I would ask that you support your local WAA event. Here in the Richmond area is the Seven Pines National Cemetery, Amelia National Cemetery, City point National Cemetery, Cold Harbor National Cemetery, and of course Richmond National which my friend Sam Tinsley and I oversee. We Look forward to seeing all who participated last year and if you would like to help, please contact me and I will put you in touch with a site near you. As wonderful as I think WAA is I need to tell you about some friends of mine. God has blessed me with two of the most giving people I have ever met. My first friend is Debbie Elam. Debbie is head of an organization called The Virginia Memorial Quilt Project and it is headquartered in Powhatan. VMQP consists of a number of lady volunteers that meet in local libraries and other places to join together and make quilts. What is so special about a bunch of women making quilts? These are very special patriotic quilts. They are given to the families of the soldiers killed in the fight against terrorism in Iraq, Afghanistan, and every other hell hole they are called to defend our freedom. The VMQP receives no funding. The ladies peovide most everything they need themselves. If you want to know more about VMQP, or would like to help in some way contact Debbie at [email protected]. These great ladies need our help. My other friend is George Lutz. George is a proud father of a young man killed in Iraq December, 2005. George, ll was 25 years old with his whole life ahead of him when he was hit by a sniper's bullet. My friend was devastated by the loss of his son as any parent would be. George wanted to do something to commemorate his son and all the other men and women who have died in

Rev R.J.(Rocky)Angone,Jr Circuit Rider - BlackHorse Trooper - Pointman International Ministries - Wreaths Across America - Richmond National Cemetery - Thunder Roads Magazine (H) 804-796-6626 (w) 804-745-3445 (C) 804-586-5060 [email protected] www.pointman.homestead.comRocky is an ordained minister, a Vietnam vet, and an outpost leader for Point-man International Ministries. He serves as a counselor and a staff member at Dominion Counseling and Training Center at the East Gate of Richmond. Rocky is a graduate of the Elijah House School of Prayer Ministry and is a board member of the Richmond Area Coalition of Men’s Ministries. He and his wife Donna live in Chester,Virginia and together have five children and twelve grand children. Rocky is the Business Manager for South Richmond Harley-Davidson and rides a 2002 Heritage Softail Classic.He and Donna belong to Cornerstone Assembly of God Church and is a member of the Christian Motorcyclist’s Association, the South Richmond HOG’s, and the Patriot Guard Riders. He is also associated with the Richmond International House of Prayer, “ At Ease Ministries” of Fort Lee and can be seen weekly on Comcast TV on “ Beauty From Ashes” with Bertha Hinson. A veteran’s advocate, Rocky invites your participation in this article. Share your experiences, thoughts, and your heart with us here “ On Eagles Wings” where Jesus is Lord.

defense of their country, so he designed a beautiful flag that would symblize the sacrifices made by our military. There is a bill in Congress now to make this flag an official national flag to be flown at all United Staes installations. I could not reproduce it here but you can go to George's website and learn the whole story. George is looking for support and would appreciate anyone interested to contact him. Please go to "honorandremember.org." All the contact info is there. Tell Debbie and George That Rocky sent you. May the road rise up to meet you May the wind always be at your back May the rain fall gently on your field May the sun shine gently upon your face Until we meet again may God hold you in the hollow of His hand

Reverend RockRev R. J. ( Rocky ) Angone, JrContact Reverend Rock at [email protected]


thunder roads virginia magazine - november '08

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