thunder roads virginia magazine - september '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!

NATIONAL FOUNDERSToni McCoy Shearon & Brian Shearon

1421 Chapmansboro RoadChapmansboro, TN 37035

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

e-mail: [email protected]

Mid-Atlantic Thunder Roads

Thunder Roads Crew

Greetings friends & fellow riders! Well, another summer has come & gone – they pass by too quickly anymore…wow. The month of September always brings change into our lives in one form or another. Whether it’s changes in schedules with the kids back in school, our own schedule since the lazy days of summer are over, or the hint of a cooler breeze in the air as Fall approaches, we all somehow manage to adjust to it & settle into a different groove. Change can be a good thing & not only does it provide freshness & possibly a new adventure for us but it also can provide us with new perspectives on things that were right in front of us all along.

Speaking of change…I’d like to try & change the minds of some of our readers out there about an issue that is often brought up to me. There are many folks that think we are strictly a “Harley” magazine. Yes, we do have Harley dealerships who advertise with us & we do have articles & information that go in from time to time about Harley-Davidson motorcycles & products. We greatly appreciate the tremendous support that Harley-Davidson has given to us. We are here for the ENTIRE motorcycle community. Thunder Roads is geared not only towards the Harley riders, but ALL of the riders with other makes & models of motorcycles. You could ride a sport bike (we’re working on getting more info in here for you folks), a custom, an American made or even a foreign bike – it doesn’t matter to us at all what you ride. Each month we try to bring to you a variety of motorcycle related information, as well as rides & events, club information, businesses that you can go to who are “biker friendly”, laughter for the soul (ok, so sometimes we have some corny jokes too) and much more. Most importantly though, is the great group of advertisers who place their ads with us as an invitation to our readers to come on & check out what they have to offer you. These businesses are the ones we encourage you to go visit & patronize – their advertising dollars make it happen for us each & every month of the year. In this day & age, there are not many things that you can get for FREE anymore, but with the help of these businesses, we’re able to keep the magazine rolling so you can pick up your FREE copy at your local shops out on the road. We’re always trying to find new places to send our magazine to so if you know of any places in your neck of the woods that don’t carry us & you’d like to pick yours up there, drop us a line & let us know who & where they are – we’ll take it from there.

Don’t forget that October is “Biker Appreciation Month” – we’re making a special issue just for you, the riders, who give so much throughout the year to help those in need. Be sure to check it out! May you all have lots of love in your hearts, peace in your lives & plenty of wind in your face….stay safe & we’ll see you next month!

Kelly

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 EDITOR

ROAD 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 SuttonDeAna Borza

Garth HinzKelly Werrell

Linda BarbozaSteve “Bagz” Bagwell

Tim WilmothRandy KidderRicky Derby

Wild Bill

* 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

Lynchburg/Roanoke areas Contact Beth Albert for more info

(804) 526-1229 or [email protected]

SALES CREW

For information about advertising in Thunder Roads, please contact our

Sales Manager, Beth Albert at (804) 536-1299 or [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)

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]

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

Garth Hinz (540) 234-9120 or (540) 746-0747 [email protected]

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

Peninsula & the Eastern Shore)

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

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

Radford, Wytheville & Abingdon)

Steve “Bagz” Bagwell (434) 221-2010 [email protected]

CONTENTS

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

Keep this line right on top of the yellow line of the header on each event page: List your event @ www.thunderroads-virginia.com Did you know that you can have your event listed on our website & here in our print calendar? Just go to our website, www.thunderroads-virginia.com & complete the form - we’ll take care of the rest. Or you can drop us a line @ [email protected]. If emailing, be sure to list your event in the subject line & then type in the body of the email, exactly how you’d like your event to appear (date, name of event, city/state taking place in & all the particulars). Our deadlines are the 15th of each month 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!

SEPTEMBER 2008

Sept 1st

Labor Day

Sept 5th – 7th Thunder In The Smokey's Fall Rally - Maggie Valley NC www.handlebarcorral.com

Sept 6th & 7th 3rd Annual GEICO Powersports Bikers for Tykes Motorcycle Rally - KOA Kampground in Virginia Beach, Va. Featured throughout the two-day event will be celebrities, children’s activities, best bike contests, exhibits, a tattoo contest, motorcycle product vendors, along with entertainment and refreshments. To order 1-day or weekend tickets, go to www.ticketmaster.com. GEICO encourages other organizations and businesses to join the Bikers for Tykes Rally effort. For more information, please email [email protected] for the Virginia Beach rally. All of the proceeds will be donated to Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters (CHKD).

Sept 6th - 7th

Pirate Run & Harley Davidson Demo Fleet – Elizabeth City, NC Outer Banks Harley-Davidson, Elizabeth City, NC Route 17 South, 252-338-8866, www.OuterBanksHD.com, Over $1,000 in Treasure Hunt Prizes! One of the most popular runs in all of North Carolina. Live Music, Vendors, Food & Beverages

Sept 7th Rip's B.A.D. Ride – Chesapeake, VA Check-in Time: 8:00 - 9:00 am. Ride Start Time: 9:30 - 10:30 am*. Festival Site: 11:00 am. *Start time may vary by location. Official Start Sites - Hampton Roads Harley-Davidson, 6450 George Washington Memorial Hwy, Yorktown, VA 23692; Boyce Performance Cycles, 3057 Kings Hwy, Suffolk, VA 23435, Honda of Norfolk, 6955 Tidewater Drive, Norfolk, VA 23509. Festival Site - Knuckleheads Roadhouse, 401 N. Witchduck Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23462. Join us at one of the Official B.A.D. Ride Start Sites for a caravan ride OR ride directly to Knuckleheads Roadhouse. Make a difference in the lives of the 21 million Americans who have diabetes. Funds raised through your donations support the lifesaving work of the American Diabetes Association: research, education, community programs and advocacy efforts.For more information on diabetes, go to www.diabetes.org. CALL the B.A.D. Ride Hotline -1-888-DIABETES ext. 3269 OR (757) 424-6662. Raise a minimum of $20 in donations (Passenger is additional $10) to participate when you register by September 5th. Day of event - the minimum is $25 in donations (Passenger is additional $10). T-shirts are $10. All riders will receive entry to festival and

concert, ride pin and goody bag. Are you REALLY B.A.D.? Raise more donations and you’ll qualify for great prizes! Raise $500 or more and you can ride up front!Want to know how to ride for free?! Email [email protected]. Contact Amie Holman 757-424-6662. www.ripsbadride.com

Sept 7th Poker Run - Gloucester VAPoker Run at Damon & Company Bar & Grill located on Rte 17 North, 11 miles north of Coleman Bridge. www.damonsbar.com Ph: 804-693-7218 rain date 9/14

Sept 7th Rattle the Runway Ride – Dulles Airport Washington, DC www.rattletherunwayride.com

Sept 11th – 14th Eighth Annual Delmarva Bike Week® – Ocean City, MD This Year We Ride! Now at six locations: Around Ocean City, Md. at Harley-Davidson of Ocean City , Sunset Marina, Seacrets Nite Club, Francis Scott Key Family Resort, 20 minutes west at Winter Place Park near Salisbury , Md. and 20 minutes north at Harley-Davidson of Seaford. Music, food, beer, bike builders, celebrities, corporate show rigs, motorcycle-related vendors, games, rides, contests. www.delmarvabikeweek.com

Sept 13th 3rd Annual Ride To Remember 9/11 – Danville, VA & Burlington, NC Blue Knights VA XIII & Blue Knights NC VI – Join us for our 3rd annual “Ride To Remember 9/11”, Sat Sept 13th (Rain date Sept 20th). Registration starts at 9am @ Thunder Road H-D in Danville VA & Davis HD in Burlington, NC with rides leaving at 11am going to Mayo Lake Park, Roxboro, NC. Registration $15 per person. All proceeds go to benefit Blue Knights Charity projects. Food, refreshments & entertainment by The Flipside band. Door prizes, Raffle, 50/50 drawings. All riders & passengers participate at their own risk.

Sept 13th Virginia Motorcyclists Summit – Richmond, VA 10:00am til 4:00 pm(approx) Holiday Inn Crossroads, 2000 Staples Mill Rd, Richmond VA. With the sponsorship of Tom McGrath’s Motorcycle Law Group we are hosting the first Virginia Motorcyclists Summit. We are inviting motorcyclists from all facets of the sport to sit down and discuss what issues are most important to them. From there, as a group we will prioritize the issues and determine what the legislative package for 2009 will be. It’s Free, Please Register. Contact Jim Cannon, VCOM Director for registration information (800)437-9434. See article August 2008 issue

Sept 13th New Vision Freedom Ride and Family Fun Day – Fredericksburg, VA New Vision is a faith-based organization dedicated to helping female ex-offenders make the transition from confinement to freedom, without re-offending and to assist them in facing the challenges associated with a successful reentry. New Vision also provides various services for the children of incarcerated female offenders. For more information visit us on the web at: www.newvisva.org. The Ride...Saturday - September 13, 2008 (Rain Date 9/14/08). The ride will begin with registration and/or check-in from 8:00 AM to 9:30 AM at Camille’s Sidewalk Cafe’ www.cafecamille.com located at 1911 Carl D. Silver Parkway in Fredericksburg, VA. The first bike leaves at 10:00 AM and last bike

leaves at 11:30 AM - This will be a staggered start. A tax deductible donation of $20 is your ticket to ride! The route is approximately 130 miles long with one scheduled stop at Waugh Enterprises Harley-Davidson www.waughhd.com. The balance of the route has several locations to stop for fuel, etc. The ride ends in Stafford County at Curtis Park located at 58 Jesse Curtis Lane off of Hartwood Road where food, fun, and beverages will be provided along with drawings for multiple prizes. The Family Fun...There will be vendors and plenty of games and entertainment for the kids. The location for these activities will be at Curtis Park beginning at 1:00 PM and ending at 5:00 PM. Check out www.newvisva.org for registration forms and additional event details. New Vision would like to recognize the following partners in this event: New Vision Freedom Ride and Family Fun Day, Strength & Honor MC Virginia Chapter, www.strengthandhonormc.com, HOG Riders Retired, From GM Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association - Virginia 27 – 1, www.combatvet.org, The Gauntlet Golf Club www.golfgauntlet.com. Contact Dave Beckwith, 703-670-9941, email [email protected] or Janina, email [email protected]. www.newvis.org

Sept 13th 6th Annual F.O.P Poker Run – Tazwell, VA Tazewell Moose Lodge. Regis-Begins at 9:00am,departure at 12 Noon(travel as a group).$10.00 individual, or $15.00 couples.Bike Show/Peoples Choice:410.00 Registration fee. Hosted by The Iron Titans Mc Club.Prizes:$500 and plaque First place,$20.00 and Plaque Worst Hand,50/50 Drawing, Silent Auction, Door Prizes. Free Food provided after ride. Soft drinks and ABC on premises for purchase. Proceeds for the shop with a cop program. All welcome. Biker Bill Stump 276-988-6438. www.irontitans.com. [email protected]

Sept 14th Dirt Drags @ Slades Park – Surry, VA Gates open 9 a.m. Admission $15.00, under 10 FREE. Free Vendor Setup - please call first. Trophies & Cash-All Classes. Top Fuel at it's Best/Pro Gas/Dirt Bikes. No Glass - No Dogs!!! For info call Joe Brookman (804) 221-3959 or Donnie Cooper (804) 796-3836. Rain date Sept 21st.

Sept 14th Pony Run - Harbinger, NC Kitty Hawk Harley-Davidson, Hwy 158, 252-491-2091, www.KittyHawkHD.com, To benefit The Corolla Wild Horse Fund, Music, Food, 50/50, Door Prizes. Wild Spanish Mustang on site!

Sept 14th Fall Poker Run – Dumfries, VA Sponsored by East Coast Virginia Chapter, HOG. Poker Run supporting the Boys & Girls Club of Dumfries, Virginia, 17975. Registration opens at 9:15 (am) at the Ol'Port Diner, 18050 Triangle Plaza, Dumfries, VA. First Bike Out at 9:30 (am) and last bike out at 10:30 (am). Prizes for best and worst hand. Door prizes as well as a great restaurant for after the run eats. Contact Jim Sass 703-402-5152, [email protected], www.eastcoasthog.com

Sept 18th – 20th 29th Annual Mid Atlantic Police Motorcycle Safety Competition - Arlington, VA www.mapmrc.com

Sept 19th – 20th Maggie Valley Fall Rally - Maggie Valley, NC Sponsored by Carolina Harley Davidson Dealers Association www.chdda.com

Sept 20th Flaming Knights 6th Annual Trophy Party – Norfolk, VA 9pm-2am @ Elks Lodge #38, 1231 Typo Avenue, Norfolk, Va 23502. $15.00 tickets in advance $20.00 at the door (BYOB) 50/50 Raffle, free food while it lasts! For advance tickets contact any member of the Flaming Knight www.FKMCNORFOLKVA.com

Sept 20th ABATE of Virginia, Inc. Culpeper Chapter’s Second Annual Jim Orange Memorial Poker Run – Brandy Station, VA Sign Up at American Twins, LLC Motorcycle Shop located at 19363 Brandy Road in Brandy Station, VA. Registration begins at 10:00 a.m. Last bike out at 11:00 a.m. $15.00 per hand. Proceeds to benefit the Culpeper Food Closet. Ride will take you on a scenic tour of some of Virginia’s finest back roads and end at Heavenly Acres Campground in Stanardsville, Virginia. FREE camping available to Run participants (we have the big field reserved – bring your tent). Food and beverages available at Heavenly Acres – Provided by Miss Behavin’ Bikhers. 50/50 - Door Prizes - Music. Call 540/937-3924 for more information. Check out Heavenlyacres.com for other campsite information. Culpeper Chapter ABATE of Virginia is not responsible for road conditions at time of event. Donations to ABATE of Virginia are not tax-deductible. Jim – you may be gone – But you will not be forgotten! Ride on Brother!

Sept 20th East Coast Downed Biker Rally – Fredericksburg, VA Bikers for Christ, Fredericksburg Area Chapter is organizing a Downed Biker Rally to raise funds for any biker who goes down throughout the riding season. This event is being held in Fredericksburg Virginia at the Fredericksburg Motor Sports complex on September 20, 2008. I would like to extend an invitation to ALL Bikers and vendors to attend. Vendors are provided a FREE 10X10, powerless, vendor spot at this event. This event will include a ride in bike show, live band, food, vendors, and demonstrations by the Spotsylvania Sheriffs department and the "540 Boyz". Opportunities are also available to co-sponsor/co-coordinate this event. If Interested Please Contact Bikers for Christ, 540-809-2787. Chris Morgan, [email protected]

Sept 20th Rev Your Engines ride and family fun day. – Woodbridge, VA 9am-5pm September 20th, 2008. Kid's activities, live music and morning ride. Benefits Stop the Silence, to prevent child sexual abuse. Ride details: Renegade Classics, 14575 Jefferson Davis Highway, Woodbridge, VA 22191, 703.499.9533, www.nova.rcosva.com. 8:30 am - 10 am Staging. 10 am Blessing of the Bikes. 10:15 am First bike out. 10:15-12:00 pm Motorcycle Ride. 12-5pm Family Fun Day @ Cowles Parkway Ford, 13779 Noblewood Plaza, Woodbridge, VA 22193. Info: Catwalk 703-599-1892 or www.revyourengines.org. www.catklaw.com/charity.

Sept 20th – 21st S&S Jim McClure Nationals – Petersburg, VA AHDRA – S&S Jim McClure Nationals at Virginia Motorsports Park in Dinwiddie, VA – All Harley Drag Racing – Racing starts both days at 9am – Admission: $50 weekend; $30 single day; children 11 and under free; active and reserve military free with valid ID; HOG members rec. $5 disc. At the gate – www.ahdra.com

Sept 21st Valley Bike Fest II - Constitution Park, Waynesboro, VA Free Food, Bike Judging/Trophies, Bike Games, Bands, Vendors, All Free. 12-6pm Sunday, Sept 21 2008

Sept 21st Baltimore/Washington DC Ride for Kids - to benefit Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation, police escorted www.pbtfus.org . The event is a 50-55 mile police escorted ride, through the back

roads of Howard County, MD. We welcome, all who wish to join us, on Sunday Sept 21, 2008, registration opens at 7:30am and closes at 9:15am, rides starts at 9:30. There is a $35 min donation per bike, a$50 donation gets a tee shirt, there are other premiums for higher amounts, for example for every $300 you get a raffle ticket for a Honda VTX 1800, which will be drawn at the Celebration of Life following the Ride. We provide coffee and donuts at the start, and lunch at the end. Anyone interested can get more information: call 800-253-6530 or go to www.rideforkids.org. One of the special things about our event is that we take the Pediatric Brain tumor patients and their families with us on the Ride.

Sept 26th – 27th Ray Price Capital City Bike Fest - Raleigh, NC Sponsored by Ray Price Harley Davidson, Raleigh NC (11 am-11 pm) www.capitalcitybikefest.com

Sept 27th 2nd Annual A Day For Jarrett - Gloucester, VA Our 2nd annual 'A Day For Jarrett' will be taking place at Damon & Company in Gloucester, Va, 7104 Geo. Wash. Mem. Hwy. 11 miles over the Coleman Bridge, 804-693-7218. The event starts at 11 am. Raising money for an All-Inclusive playground (handicapped accessible) for the Middle Peninsula. We will be having live music with 'Bad Ace', 'Fine Swiss Cheese' and more! Carnival rides, vendors, great food, a silent auction and the pulling of the winning raffle tickets for the 2008 Sucker Punch Sally 'A Day For Jarrett' Traditional Bobber and for a 2008 Arctic Cat ATV. We are also selling tickets for our 'Ride With The Guys II' which takes place at 8 am on the day of the event. For $50/person, you will receive breakfast, a tshirt, admission for the day, premier bike parking, a 2 1/2 hour police escorted ride with the staff from Rocker Originals from York County and 1 raffle ticket for the bike. For more information log on to www.adayforjarrett.com or call Damon & Company at 804-693-7218.

Sept 27th Bikers for Babies-March of Dimes Ride – Portsmouth, VA Bayside Harley-Davidson, Portsmouth, VA I-264/Exit 5. Live Music, 50/50, Food and Door Prizes.

Sept 27th Old School Hot Rod & Chopper Show & Swap Meet – Virginia Beach, VA Saturday, Aug 16th , 9am-3pm, Benefit for Currituck Co. High School Technologies Program. $15.00 Swap Spot. $10.00 each Show Entry. Baker Street Restaurant, 1920 Centerville Turnpike, Virginia Beach, Va. Contacts: Aaron-(252)202-7754 CK- (252)202-2528 Mike- (252) 619-1935.

OCTOBER 2008 - BIKER APPRECIATION MONTH

Oct 1st – 5th Myrtle Beach Fall Rally – Myrtle Beach, SC

Oct 4th CCG 5th Annual Toy Run – Elkton, MD Cecil County Guardians 5th annual toy run. Vendors, food, beer, live band, raffles. All proceeds benefit underprivileged children in Cecil County Maryland. Registration to ride will be held at Knights of Columbus at intersection of rte.40 and Landing Lane in Elkton, MD from 9am to 11am on October 4th, 2008. Ride ends at Fair Hill race track. Admission is $10.00 donation or new toy. Sponsored by Cecil County Guardians Branch Elkton Lions Club. Contact: Bobbi Jo Hunt / Gina

Creek. 443-206-8250 / 443-350-5224. [email protected]. www.myspace.com/cecilcountyguardians

Oct 5th Ride for Autism – Portsmouth, VABayside Harley-Davidson, Portsmouth, VA I-264/Exit 5. Autism is an epidemic. 1 out of 150children will have some form of autism.

Oct 5th Ride For Pink - Chesapeake/Virginia Beach, VA To benefit The Breast Cancer research Foundation. Reg 9am - 11am at Chevy’s in Chesapeake. Ride leaves at 11:15 to Knuckleheads. Live Band, Bike Show & much more! Contact Larry Decker (757) 439-5828 or Phyllis Wall (757) 675-7999. For more details, see front cover & pg 7 of this issue.

Oct 5th 18th Annual Virginia British Motorcycle Show & Rally Swap Meet – Leesburg, VABritish & European motorcycle show 10 to 4. 60 Ida Lee Drive NW. Leesburg, Va. www.virginiabritishmotorcycleclub.org

Oct 5th Ride For The Warriors - Yorktown, VA Presented by Brothers In Arms MC. The first "Ride For the Warriors" to benefit the Wounded Warrior Project. Registration will be from 10:00 am - Noon at the Bay Haven Grille (6500-A George Washington Memorial Highway, Yorktown, VA - Right Next to Hampton Roads Harley Davidson). $20 rider, $5 passenger. Awards and prizes. Contact "Z", 804-824-8760, [email protected], www.freewebs.com/biamc-yorktown

Oct 5th Declan Sharp Charity Benefit Show, Shine & Ride For Life – Poquoson, VACome and join the areas best hot rods, trucks & bikes All proceeds for the event will benefit 14-year old Declan Sharp, who is diagnosed with a rare form of Bone Cancer, and is undergoing treatment at CHKD. Event location is at the Poquoson City Pool Parking Lot located at 16 Municipal Drive , Poquoson , VA. Registration will begin at 9AM. Charity Ride leaves at 1:00PM. $2.00 donation for the Show-n-Shine. $10.00 donation for Charity Ride & $5.00 for passengers. ALL DONATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED!! The “Charity Ride” will consist of a 65-mile long ride through the beautiful Colonial Parkway in Historic Yorktown to the Jamestown Settlement Visitors Center. This will be a police-escorted ride! ALL ARE WELCOME!!! The ride ends back at the Poquoson City Pool Parking Lot where there will be food, drinks, music, raffle drawings for prizes, a 50/50 drawing, award presentations…And meet the Pin-Up Angels!!! There will also be a special birthday presentation for Declan Sharp at the event!!! T-shirts for the event will be on sale! (T-shirts will be available for pre-sale. See contact information below.) NO Alcoholic Beverages Allowed! For information, please contact: Larry Wainwright at (757) 714-8827 or [email protected]. Mark Boesen at (757) 876-0435 or [email protected]. Dale Simmons at (757) 880-3806 or [email protected]. Proudly Sponsored by CASEY CYCLE CITY

Oct 10th – 12th AHDRA – Screamin’ Eagle Performance Parts Nationals – Rockingham, NCAt Rockingham Dragway “The Rock” in Rockingham, NC – Championship Finals – All Harley Drag Racing – Racing starts 9am – Admission: $50 weekend; $30 single day; children 11 and under free; active and reserve military free with valid ID; HOG members rec. $5 disc. At the gate - $25.00 per campsite – Free concert Saturday night – www.ahdra.com

October 10-12, 2008 Rumble Through The Tunnels Fleet Ride Weekend – Portsmouth, VA Bayside Harley-

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

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE � THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE �

Davidson, Portsmouth, VA I-264/Exit 5. Largest ride to honor our military. Over 3000 riders participate. Live Music, Vendors, Food & Beverages. Tattoo Contest and Tattoo Art Show.

Oct 11th Renegade Classics – Woodbridge’s Anniversary Party - Woodbridge, VAFood, DJ, Meet the Renegade Girls, see what’s new at the end of Year Two. For more information contact Renegade Classics Motorcycle Clothing & Accessories Outlet Store: 14575 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Featherstone Square, Woodbridge, VA; 703-499-9533; www.nova.RCOSva.com

Oct 11th Easter Seals Virginia's 2nd Annual Ride With Me Poker Run – Oilville, VA Sponsored by the Page Auto Group. *Free continental breakfast provided by Maggiano's! *Win door prizes and bid on auction items! Start at Larry Page's Hot Rod Shop, 1091 Merchants Lane, Oilville, VA 23129. On-site Registration at 8:30am. Ride Starts at 9:30am. Finish with lunch and festivities at Ironhorse Restaurant, Ashland - 12:30pm. Open to all motor bikes! For more information visit www.va.easterseals.com or call 1-866-874-4153 x107

Oct 11th 2008 4th District Virginia Moose Riders Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Benefit – Fairfax, VA All proceeds will be donated to JDRF. Beginning with a Poker Run at 8:30 am. Registration for Poker Run - 8:30am to 10:30am at the Centreville Moose Lodge, 3529 Chain Bridge Rd., Fairfax VA 22030, 703 385 4403, (www.centrevillemoose.com). *** Breakfast Buffet is Available. 3:00pm to 8:00pm-Live Music and Great Food at the Party at Vienna Moose Lodge, 9616 Courthouse RD., Vienna VA, 703 281 4370, (www.viennamooselodge1896.org). ***Food and access to the party is free with Poker Run registration. Live Music provided by Mike Westcott and Blues on Board (mwestcott@bluesonboard). Food provided by Vienna Moose Lodge 1896. * Poker Run is not just for motorcycles - Everyone is welcome!!!* If you can't come for the ride come for the party!* There will be plenty of Raffles and Door Prizes! Questions / Contributions: Call Carl 703 629 9513

Oct 11th 2n Annual Ride for the Fight Against Breast Cancer – Norfolk, VA Presented by Motorcycles for the Cure & Ebony Beauties. Charity Ride to Benefit the Susan G. Komen Tidewater area. Ride registration begins @ 10:30am – 12pm at Sunrise Cycles, 1559 E. Little Creek Rd., Norfolk , VA. Kickstands up at 12:30. $10 per rider & $10 per passenger. Information contact Michael Roadblock @ 757-753-3509 or Kream @ (757) 971-2293 or visit: www.motorcyclesforthecure.com .

Oct 12th Suffolk Swamp Roar – Suffolk, VA 9:00 AM-3:00 PM. The 80-mile, police-escorted ride travels around the perimeter of the Great Dismal Swamp, departing from the Suffolk Executive Airport. Coinciding with Suffolk’s Annual Peanut Fest, the Swamp Roar is an excellent opportunity to see why it’s a good time to be in Suffolk. Reception and entertainment included in registration. Steppenwolf’s “Born to be Wild” has become an anthem for bikers everywhere and Suffolk is no different. Of course, the “wild” part refers to black bear, bobcat and other creatures inhabiting the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. The Suffolk Swamp Roar Motorcycle Rally has raised thousands of dollars for education and signage programs, as well as, habitat restoration for the Great Dismal, one of North America’s few remaining wildernesses. Admission Fee: $20.00 www.suffolk-fun.com

Oct 12th Fall Bike Fest! – Gloucester, VA Biker games, Tattoo Contests, live music, great food and more! Damon & Company Bar & Grill located on Rte

17 North, 11 miles north of Coleman Bridge. www.damonsbar.com Ph: 757-479-4685. Raindate 10/19

Oct 16th – 19th Biketoberfest – Daytona Beach, FL

Oct 18th Golden Corral’s First Annual DAV Poker Run – Chesapeake, VA 7am – Until. Free Meal Tickets & Tee Shirt. Prizes: 1st - $1000; 2nd $500; prize for worst hand also. 50/50. Entertainment. Pre-Registration $10 Non-Refundable deposit. Registration $40 per rider or $50 w/passenger. 101 Volvo Pkwy, Chesapeake, VA (757) 549-2819.

Oct 18th First Annual Special Bikers for Special Olympics, Poker Run & Bike Show – Farmville, VA Proudly Presented by Cruiser Club USA Chapter. Poker Run-- $10 per Hand; 1st Group out-- 10am---$250.00 Purse. 2nd--Group out--11am---$250.00 Purse. Bike Show--$10 per Bike--Trophies Awarded--1st&2nd Places & Best in Show. Judging--2pm. Special Olympic Athlete Activities--2pm Food & Beverage---Mulligan Sports Bar & Grill. Bike wash, Baked Goods,50/50, Day Event & Dance, & Cake Auction During Dance. Dance with The "Janitors" 9pm till 1am---$10 per Person. Purchase Janitor Tickets At: Quiznos/Farmville---434-391-1104, Anderson Tire/Dillwyn---434-983-2717, Midway Grocery/Cumberland---804-492-4122, Jimmy Adams/Farmville---434-315-8929.

Oct 19th MOTORCYCLE TOY RUN! - Ocean City HD All Motorcycles Welcome. Sunday, October 19, 2008. Starting at the Harley-Davidson of Ocean City, US 50 & Seahawk Rd. east of Berlin, MD. Sign-up: 10:00am – Noon. Roll out at 12:30pm Sharp. Escorted run ending at the American Legion Post 64, located at U.S. 50 across from the National Guard Armory in Salisbury. Admission: A NEW unwrapped toy or $10.00, (No Stuffed Animals Please). Cash Bar, Outdoor Pavilion with Music, and Food. For more information: Contact Clay @ 443/235-5910 or E-mail at: [email protected]

Oct 19th Dirt Drags @ Slades Park – Surry, VA Gates open 9a.m. Admission $15.00, under 10 FREE. Free Vendor Setup - please call first. Trophies & Cash-All Classes. Top Fuel at it's Best/Pro Gas/Dirt Bikes. No Glass - No Dogs!!! For info call Joe Brookman (804) 221-3959 or Donnie Cooper (804) 796-3836. Rain date Oct 26th.

October 25th Buccaneer's Booty Run- Hampton, VA The Star 205 We be plan’in a benefit ride for the folks of Vetshouse, a non-profit charity serving our homeless Vets in the Hampton Roads area, Aarrr! A noble cause to be sure. The ride will be on October 25th, we be need’in scurry dogs to make the voyage with us. So line up and sign on, registrations starts at 0930, that be 9:30am for ye land lubbers, at AllOut Cycles off Mercury Blvd, Hampton, Va. Their be a small fee of $15 per rider and $5 per passenger. The 1st 200 land lubbers that make their mark will get the 1st official Buccaneer’s Booty ride pin. The 1st bike is out at 10am. The ride ends at All-Out Cycles’ new store in Chesapeake. We be also hav’in a Costume contest for the best looking Pirate. So Sign On! Avest ye there! and log on to www. star205.org for more info. Aarrr!

Oct 25th Orphan Run... A Reason to Ride – Williamsburg, VA Orphan Run...there has never been a better reason to ride. Join bikers from all over Virginia as they make a difference in the lives of forgotten children. The 4th Annual Orphan Run takes place Saturday, October 25, at Colonial Hills Estate in Williamsburg. Festivities will begin at noon and include live music, great food, bike show (& trophies!), giveaways, and vendor displays (Rain Date: October 26th). Stage from one of three convenient locations: Bayside Harley Davidson, Hampton Roads Harley Davidson and Richmond Harley Davidson at 9:30 am, kickstands up at 11:00 am. Cost: $15 single / $20

couple. The event benefits Orphan Helpers, a Christian outreach organization dedicated to helping orphaned, abused and incarcerated children in Central America. Colonial Hills Estate is located at 262 Thompson Lane, Williamsburg, VA 23188. For more information visit www.orphanhelpers.org or call Roma at 757-722-6940, [email protected]. Rain Date is Oct 26th.

Oct 26th Sherri Parker Memorial Poker Run and Bike Show – Driver, VA Benefiting the Sherri Parker Memorial Fund Inc., and the Driver Volunteer Fire Dept.Poker Run Registration 9:30 - 11:30 at Bayside Harley Davidson Portsmouth and Knuckleheads Roadhouse Virginia Beach. Bike Show Registration 12:00- 2:00 in Driver. Rain date Nov. 2.Contact Holly Hoffler at 757-538-3944 or Eddie Boyce at 757-477-6168 or 757-538-2848.

Oct 26th – 28th 5th Annual Virginia Fall Classic – Newport News, VA www.vafallclassic.org benefits CHKD

NOVEMBER 2008

Nov 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 11th Veterans Day

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 2008

Dec 25th Christmas – Are you dreaming of a white one?

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

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE �

Proud To Be An AmericanOutlanders Sets Record With Over 14,000 At Their Boogie Woogie Bugle Party In June!

Expections were high for this year’s annual summer party at Outland-ers in Luray, Virginia. After the Boot

Scootin’ Boogie Party in 2007, we thought Yvonne and Christian would have a difficult time outdoing themselves. We were wrong!

The Boogie Woogie Bugle Party set new records. Over 14,000 people came to enjoy the food, bikes and beauties. This year’s theme was a tribute to our troops throughout history. Groups, such as Rolling Thunder, the American Legion Riders and the Veteran POW-MIA Riders, held prominent positions at the event, which gave attendees a good reminder of what our fighting men and women have given us throughout history - our freedom.

As the Poker Run began in the morning, preparations were in full swing for the main event. At noon, Christian opened the event with the blessing of the bikes by Preacher Crane with 2nd Thief Riders and the Pledge of Allegiance. The Dennis Peters Band then performed a great blend of Southern Rock and really got the crowd pumped up.

As attendees walked through the event, there was a mix of traditional vendors and special displays. APC Motorcycles from Las Vegas had an incredible setup at the show with their double trailer full of fabulous bikes. We found a great selection of vendors for motorcycle paraphernalia and the food vendors offered a wide variety of choices for everyone.

More importantly, the displays that called our attention to different wars throughout our nation’s history were overwhelming. The First Infantry Division Civil War reenactors set up an authentic campsite and just down the way, there was an American Red Cross tent set up as it would have appeared in France during WWI. The Red Cross volunteers offered attendees relief from the heat and provided minor first aid throughout the day.

The Intermont Military Vehicle Club brought over 20 authentic, fully-restored World War II vehicles to the event. Attendees were sent back in time with the manikins dressed in WWII uniforms and the club members spent hours with ex-acting detail positioning every item. We smiled as children asked their parents the names of the vehicles and heard words like “Ferret” and “Weasel.”

The event was highlighted by two special live performances. The U.S. Army “Old Guard” Drum and Fife Corps performed dressed in traditional continental uniforms, which highlighted the first soldiers who fought for our freedom and the founding of our country. Later in the afternoon, the U.S. Marine Silent Drill Platoon presented their precision drill demonstration for the crowd. We were awestruck as utter silence fell upon the grounds during their show.

And, a salute to the troops would not be complete without a USO Show. Prelude performed a mix of music from the 1940’s to the present. Of course, the song “Boogie Woogie Bugle” was a must! The “go-go” dancers added a fun touch and were reminiscent of USO Shows during the Vietnam and Korean Wars.

The “Boogie Woogie Bugle” Party was excellent and we know Yvonne and Christian have already heard that there should be a “Boogie Woogie Bugle” Party II!

Proud To Be An American

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE � THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE �

Hot PlateThunder Jams

Drive In Restaurant

By FSC Larry E. Gilbreath

We started at 9am at D&D Cycles in Norfolk for the dyno-shoot out. Ever since our first foundation run 5 years ago, D&D has donated their time and energy to help us with our event. The turn out this year was double the turn out we had last year. After the dyno-shootout, the group went on a ride which ended at Northside Park in Norfolk for the Flam-ing Knights cookout. This was our way of thanking all who participated in the day’s event. We raffled off gifts that were donated by (Bayside Harley-Davidson, Hampton Roads Harley-Davidson, Aggressor Cycles, Subway, Wal-Mart, Advance Auto and numerous other businesses in the area). Also, the food for the event was donated by Progressive Food group and US Foodservice. We really appreciated the support of our biker brothers from TAMA and the SEBA. Special thanks always to “American Cruisers MC”, the “Afro Dogs MC”, “Notorious Ryders”, and many of our fellow bike clubs in the 757 and surrounding areas.

5th Annual Joseph "Jazz" McCain, Hampton Roads Kidney Foundation Run Norfolk, VA July 2�th, 2008

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MOTORCYCLE MECCA… and

THE RIDE By LuLu

The plan was to be on the road to Sturgis by 3pm on Friday, but as with any best laid plan, there are always glitches. We had some difficulty getting our 3 bikes on a trailer meant for two and luggage for 5 loaded up in the SUV. But by 5:30pm and one head injury later we were off. One of the bikes fell over and hit Toni in the head. Thank God the injury required an ice pack, not brain surgery or stitches. Pulling out of Columbus Ct. in Palm Coast was “our” group of “Wild Hogs” all loaded up in an SUV looking at 32 hours of driving time and just under 2,000 miles of highway to get to our destination. Our gang consisted of Glenn and Sharon, Mike and Toni and me. (By the way, it was Mike who let the bike fall over on Toni.) The first 75 miles seemed like an eternity, but once we settled into the idea of being in the car for 2 days it wasn’t nearly as miserable as I anticipated. Mike drove until 4am, climbed in the back and snored for 2 hours while Glenn finessed the ribbon of roadway. After a brief catnap Mike was back at the helm. Ideally the ride to Sturgis ON bikes would have been the ultimate biking experience, but time constraints simply didn’t permit any of us to spend several extra days on the trip there and back. At 25 hours into the trip, Sharon began sleep deprivation hallucinations which included sidewalks in the cornfields and fields of corn that appeared to be doing the wave at her. This brush with insanity gave us all the giggles.

After 50 hours of travel time, we arrived in Deadwood to find out our executive home we rented for the week was at the end of a four mile gravel and dirt road to a mountaintop view. Eagle’s Nest was true to its name and definitely not “BIKER FRIENDLY”! The home was beautiful, the view awesome, but when you come to Sturgis to ride you hope to be able to get your bikes off the trailer. We ended up in a makeshift room in Deadwood. The hotel converted their conference room for us and all five adults “camped” together each night.

Originally, I planned to hit the museums, bike shows, Buffalo Chip Campground, the concerts, etc., etc., Our first day out on the bikes I knew none of that was going to happen. All we wanted to do was ride!! Each day we took off to see different parts of this beautiful terrain. Majestic doesn’t even describe the vistas. The first day we did ride into Sturgis looked around and then rode to Wyoming. As a Florida rider I have never experienced maneuvering the steep mountainous hills and hairpin turns, but I faced my fear head on and managed to put 190 miles on our bike that day. We traveled 85 South to Newcastle, Wyoming. My friends were slightly annoyed at my slow pace, but they should thank me!! My pace forced them to sit back and take in the sights and kept them from getting the speeding ticket the group of bikers who sped past us was getting when we caught up with them. This route gave us great expanses of open highway with rolling hills to traverse, along with the nail biting turns and mountains.

Day two: Luckily, Jim from Tampa was kind enough to offer me his backseat so my friends could cover more miles, faster. We headed down 385 South

to Custer State Park and to Mount Rushmore. The trip and this historic spot were all you would expect. We saw a buffalo, elk, deer, antelopes and more prairie dogs than you can imagine. The NOT TO MISS ride, in this area, is Iron Mountain Road. The ride is up and around a mountain with one way bridges, tunnels, lush landscapes and glimpses of Mount Rushmore. We also saw the Crazy Horse Memorial on this trip. On our way home from this 230 mile ride a sudden storm hit at dusk. Quarter size hail started raining down on us and we had to take shelter in a tin roofed wayside bar until it passed. The lightening from that storm took several lives of bikers, including a husband and wife.

Day 3: We were road weary and decided to go into Sturgis to attend the Bikerornot.com afternoon Meet and Greet held at One Eyed Jacks, we did a little souvenir shopping and I managed to find the brick I had purchased in Bull’s memory laid in a sidewalk in Sturgis. We stopped in Knuckle Saloon for a drink or two and loved this bar. That evening a friend of ours, Scott Yvonne, and his band Unison were playing at Side Hack Saloon so we managed to get one night of dancing and nightlife in. Generally, we were just too exhausted from the long runs to spend much time out at night.

Day 4: We rode from Deadwood through Spearfish Canyon. This was definitely my second favorite road. We walked to a waterfall which I always find mystical. Then we rode to Devil’s Tower in Wyoming. We rode through Aladdin, with a population of only 15 which they proudly post. The waitress in Hulett, Wyoming informed us their entire county, Crook, doesn’t have even one red light! All this makes for perfect riding. Quaint small towns,

Knuckle Saloon

MOTORCYCLE MECCA…

continued on next page

to Custer State Park and to Mount Rushmore. The trip and this historic spot were all you would expect. We saw a buffalo, elk, deer, antelopes and more prairie dogs than you can imagine. The NOT TO MISS ride, in this area, is Iron Mountain Road. The ride is up and around a mountain with one way bridges, tunnels, lush landscapes and glimpses of Mount Rushmore. We also saw the Crazy Horse Memorial on this trip. On our way home from this 230 mile ride a sudden storm hit at dusk. Quarter size hail started raining down on us and we had to take shelter in a tin roofed wayside bar until it passed. The lightening from that storm took several lives of bikers, including a husband and wife.

Day 3: We were road weary and decided to go into Sturgis to attend the Bikerornot.com afternoon Meet and Greet held at One Eyed Jacks, we did a little souvenir shopping and I managed to find the brick I had purchased in Bull’s memory laid in a sidewalk in Sturgis. We stopped in Knuckle Saloon for a drink or two and loved this bar. That evening a friend of ours, Scott Yvonne, and his band Unison were playing at Side Hack Saloon so we managed to get one night of dancing and nightlife in. Generally, we were just too exhausted from the long runs to spend much time out at night.

Day 4: We rode from Deadwood through Spearfish Canyon. This was definitely my second favorite road. We walked to a waterfall which I always find mystical. Then we rode to Devil’s Tower in Wyoming. We rode through Aladdin, with a population of only 15 which they proudly post. The waitress in Hulett, Wyoming informed us their entire county, Crook, doesn’t have even one red light! All this makes for perfect riding. Quaint small towns,

Biker at Newlywed Falls in Spearfi sh Canyon Mount Rushmore

How WILD? Crazy Horse

Sharon on the Plains on Wild Life Loop in Custer Park

How small we are!

Thanks for the Ride, Jim! Prairie Dogs

Memorial Brick for Bull


TECH TIPS

Hello my friends…yes it has been a whole month since I fouled the pages of this fine magazine and it is time again to do the same. Some of you may be tiring of my technical rants and A.D.D. -like ramblings so I am happy to announce that I received my first question on the Q&A e-mail! Since my slacker backside had nothing put together in time (..hey, school just started back for me….give me a break!!!) I proudly present my sometimes whimsical, other times philosophical and rarely hysterical take on everyday maintenance to keep you on the road….enjoy.

Hey Gear head, How do I adjust my clutch cable and how do I know when adjustment is needed. Is there a trick to that? And how do I lubricate my cables. Brake and clutch. I am a female rider and I want to do my own maintenance. signed, Not so much of a gear head

Thanks for my first Q&A!! Ok how and when to adjust your clutch cable...well, if you notice your clutch is getting excessively hard to pull in, excessive play in your clutch lever (more than a 1/4 inch) or so tight that it won’t disengage, you need to adjust your cable. Cable adjustments are made mid cable on Harleys and the adjuster can be found along the left side down tube of your bike. There is a lock nut (the small one) and the adjuster nut

(the long one), loosen the lock nut and if your cable is too tight, screw the adjuster in (make the gap shorter between the two nuts), if it is too loose, screw out the adjuster (make the gap bigger) until you have 1/8th to 1/4th of an inch of play in your clutch lever (meaning: you pull it about 1/8th to a 1/4 of an inch before it pulls on the cable). Once you get it set correctly, tighten down the lock nut and you’re done! To lube the cables, you need to repeat the steps above, but screw your adjuster in until the cable becomes very slack and you have enough slack to pull it out of the mount on the handle bars and remove it from the lever. You can use WD-40 into the cable end, but the best way to do it is with a cable luber...available at any bike shop (it clamps around the end of the cable and forces lube down into the cable housing...if you want one, let me know). Throttle cables work the same way, but you need to take the right side switch housing apart and remove the cables to do it. Hope this helps. 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.

local honky tonks and roads that go on forever with views that are unique with each turn you take. Once back I showered and headed with Alan Cabral from Easy Rider Magazine, my escort for the days ride, to a media dinner hosted my Corbin, Samson Exhaust and Barnett. Many of the Hamsters and John and Jill Parnham from J&P Cycles were present at this event.

That was it! The 10 day trip was over. Unfortunately it takes so long to get there that your time in Sturgis goes entirely too quickly. On our way home we did ride the loop through The Badlands found it also to be a DO NOT MISS run. Gas for the trip ended up running about $1800. We traveled like a band of gypsies yet we managed to come home even better friends than before. Unless you are a lone wolf by nature, having great friends to enjoy a trip like this with gives you someone to remember the special moments in life with. Thanks to my friends for hauling me out there, giving me pep talks along the way and giving me a gift of memories I will always cherish. Special thanks to my new friend, Jim, for a safe ride on his back seat. That sure made picture taking easier. I came home a better biker no matter what my friends may tell you! Although there was a turn or two that made me wonder would I make it home at all.

This is a trip of a lifetime for some, a yearly pilgrimage for others but what I was told by an old school, hard core biker before I left is true: “It is as close to heaven as you can imagine on earth…be quiet, let the engine of your bike be the only sound you hear and the force of the wind against you all you feel..This is as good as religion gets.” Make time in your life to go here, not necessarily for the event, but for some of the most spectacular riding you will ever experience and sights you won’t forget. The people in South Dakota are warm and welcoming so make this trip as soon as you can. I hope to go back with more time to spend on their beautiful roadways, four days just wasn’t long enough.

MOTORCYCLE MECCA…

Tunnel on the Iron Mountain Road

The Badlands

The Devil’s Tower

CONTINUED

New Helmet, Anyone?THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 1� THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 1�

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

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 1� THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 17

HOMEMADE MEATBALL SUBS - QUICK & EASY! 1 Bag of Frozen, Premade Italian Meatballs (the kind that Sam’s Club or Costco’s sells are fabulous. Otherwise, whatever quality brand your local grocer sells works great). 1 Bag of Fresh, Submarine or Hoagie Rolls from your local grocer’s Bakery (usually 8 to a bag) 2 Bottles of Classico (preferably mushroom & black olive style) Spaghetti SauceIf you buy spaghetti sauce without mushrooms and black olives already in it, then buy a small can of black olives and a small can of sliced mushrooms to add to your sauce. 1 Large Bag of Shredded Parmessan or Mozzarella Cheese1 Shaker of Garlic Powder In an X- large skillet, drizzle some Extra Virgin Olive Oil around to coat the bottom. Then you’ll need apprx. 8 meat-balls per submarine, so you do the math. Place meatballs in olive oil and saute’ well on all sides. Pour your 2 bottles of sauce down over your meatballs and turn heat down to low. Meanwhile, butter your sub rolls on both inner sides and sprinkle garlic powder on both sides and place under broiler until golden brown. Remove and place your meat-balls onto golden & crispy hot buns, cover meatballs with sauce from skillet and sprinkle fresh shredded cheese all over meatballs and sauce and close them up so cheese can melt down all over the meatballs and bread. Now....that’s delicioso!!!

SUPER FAST BEEFY NACHO DIP 1 Pound of Ground Chuck, broken up and pan fried; drain off excess water/grease1 Can (16 oz.) Refried Beans1 Cup Salsa3/4 Cup Chopped Purple Onion2 Cups Shredded Cheddar or Colby-Monteray Jack CheeseTortilla CheeseIn large skillet, combine chicken, beans, salsa and onion. Heat thru evenly. Transfer to a serving bowl and cover gen-erously with cheese. Serve warm and with chips! Olay!

ROASTED PINEAPPLE LEMON GELATIN1 Can Crushed Pineapple\2 Pkgs. Lemon Jell-O2 Cups Boiling Water

2 Cups Ginger Ale, Chilled2 Large Firm Bananas, Sliced1/2 Cup Sugar2 Tbls. All Purpose Flour1 Egg, Lightly Beaten2 Tbls. Butter1 Cup Heavy Whipping CreamDrain pineapple, reserving juice; set pineapple aside. In a small bowl, dissolve gelatin into boiling water. Stir in the ginger ale, bananas, and reserved pineapple. Transfer to a 13x9x2 in. dish. Refrigerate until firm. For topping, combine sugar and flour in a small saucepan. Gradually whisk in reserved pineapple juice. Bring to a boil over medium heat; cook and stir for 2 mins. or until thickened. Remove from heat; stir a small amount into lightly beaten egg; return all to the pan, stirring constantly. Cook and stir until mixture is thickened. Remove from heat, stir in but-ter. Cool to room temp. In small bowl, beat heavy whip-ping cream on high speed until stiff peaks form. Gently fold into custard. Spread over gelatin. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set and chill thru-out. Serves 12. This is incredible tasting!!

DEVILED CHICKEN 6 Chicken Thigh or Leg Pieces1/4 Margarine, melted1 Tbls. Lemon Juice1 Tbls. Prepared MustardSalt & Pepper to Taste1 tsp. Salt1 tsp. PaprikaPlace chicken in a baking dish. In a small bowl, combine the remaining ingredients. Pour over chicken and coat thoroughly. Turn chicken to coat all over. Bake, uncov-ered, at 375 for 1 hour. Baste occasionally with juices from pan as chicken is cooking. When pull from oven, let cool slightly and shake extra Paprika on top and serve with a fresh green salad. These truly have the taste of deviled eggs, only for chicken. Great to make in advance and just heat up for a quick snack during the week, or for lunch.

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Bikers, Bikinis and Bottled WaterRenegade Classics hosted their 2nd Annual “Adult Beach Party” on July the 19th in their Woodbridge parking lot. It was HOT (and the thermometer read about 94 also)! There were vendors on hand to decorate your bike, decorate your skin, massage your back, entice your ego, and save your assets if you get in trouble. Bikes were really washed by two lovely Renegade Girls who did a very thorough and enjoyable job. Many items were on sale, but the winner was the bottled water allowing the attendees to wash down the free chili dogs, pro-vided by Hard Times Café, and stay cool in the shade.2nd Wind (Southern Rock) Band rocked the lot with three sets of hard driving, tap your foot tunes. They were on a unique stage of two side-by-side delivery trucks. The height of the stage gave us a great view of one of the highlights of the event – the bikini contest. Three lovely young ladies strutted and danced their stuff to victory. Not long after was the main event – the Wet-T contest – four ladies bared their b**bs for an eye popping experience and the enjoyment for the over 200 bikers in attendance.We heard that a bike show and tattoo contest are being added for next years event. Who says you have to go to the big events to have a titillating good time. Ta Ta’s until next year.

Shadow

Stephen MahoneyRenegade Classics14575 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Featherstone Square Woodbridge, VA 22191 703-499-9533 www.nova.RCOSva.com

Photos courtesy of Big Sexy

“That 60’s Place”TM

www.ThunderbirdGrill.com

201 Battery Park RoadSmithfield, Virginia 23430

(Rt. 10 Business)Behind Farmers Bank


Extreme Road Rash: Cause Effect and Lesson LearnedWritten by Brittany Morrow Wednesday, 04 October 2006

ONE YEAR HAS PASSED It’s hard to look in the mirror and think that my scars are already an entire year old. Touching my stomach and rib cage, I can’t imagine looking this way and feeling this pain for the rest of my life. I still feel as if at any moment I will wake up from this terrible dream and be comfortable in my own skin once again. Knowing that it’s real, that there is nothing I can do to change it, I am reminded of my mistakes every minute of everyday. I am

also reminded how lucky I am to be alive as I close my eyes and remember why I still feel pain after an entire year of healing. Imagining that if I had not survived the accident, I wouldn’t have anything to touch at all, I smile when my fingers run over a thick layer of scar tissue in place of my once soft skin. I know my life has a purpose, and I strive everyday to live up to the task that has been placed at my feet. THE ACCIDENTIt was a beautiful Sunday morning even through my blurred vision. I was on the back of my friend Shaun’s GSXR 750 and was excited to be on a sport bike, even if it was as a passenger, after a long streak of no riding whatso-ever. I had shed my prescription glasses for a pair of sunglasses, my cowboy hat for an oversized helmet, and quickly thrown on a pair of capri jeans, tennis shoes, and a sweatshirt over my bikini. I thought nothing of the fact that I had practically no protection against the asphalt if anything were to happen. I figured that we couldn’t get into a wreck, it simply wouldn’t happen to me. It’s amazing how fast life came at me that day. Approaching mile marker seven on highway 550, I noticed that I had to start fighting the wind to stay behind Shaun without pulling on him too much. I placed my hands on the gas tank and pushed myself into him as much as possible without crowding him. As we came around to the right and went down the hill, we kept accelerating. I was scared, but thought I could handle the force of the wind as it suddenly picked up much more than in the moments before. I started to slide back on the seat and felt the cool air fill the small space between my chest and Shaun’s back. I felt a rush of wind hit my face like a brick and our bodies separated in an instant; my visor had come completely open. The force pulled on my face and helmet so hard that it sent my head up and backwards, ripping my entire body off the back seat with it. I remember thinking that if I grabbed Sean’s t-shirt I would pull him down with me, but it was already too late to try and grab a hold of him. I was only in the air for a spilt second, but an eternity of thoughts ran through my mind. I had no idea what excessive speed I was about to hit the ground at or the damage it would do to my body, I just thought about how my life had led to that point. I remembered the basics of surviving a fall from a horse without injury, which I had done a few times in the previous year, and simply let myself go. I knew there was nothing else I could do. When I hit the ground, it was as if every breath I had ever taken rushed out of me in an instant. I could feel every inch of my body hitting the road; tumbling, sliding and grinding into the unforgiving surface. In my helmet, which seemed so small and yet completely empty, I could hear my whimpers as I fought to breath and my prayer to God as I gave into the asphault. In a matter of seconds, I had come to the conclusion that I was going to die, and I was ok with it. I knew this was far worse than anything I had ever gone through and I was convinced I would not live to see the next day. My eyes were closed as I finished my 522 foot tumble down highway 550. I never lost consciousness, but I remember wishing that I had. At first I couldn’t feel anything. A few moments passed before anyone was at my side, and I had the chance to try and move myself. Immediately, I could tell that I had lost my left shoe as my toes were burning on the hot road. My right foot felt stiff, completely unmovable, and I thought it was probably broken. I noticed that my knees were uncovered when the little pieces of what I thought were gravel scraped against my skin, only to find out later that they were my actual kneecaps grinding against the pavement below them. My right arm was trapped underneath me and my shoulder felt hot. My left pinky was the most noticeable pain in those first few minutes, a throbbing and stabbing pain, as it bled profusely right in front of my face. I could smell my blood as it pooled beneath me on the road.

By the time the ambulance came and rolled me onto my back, removed my helmet, and called the helicopter, I felt as if I had been cooking on the street for hours. Every nerve ending in my body was on fire; tingling, scorching, and burning. I had not gone into shock, and the adrenaline had worn off almost instantly. Not being able to move was the worst of it. I wanted to pull my arm out from underneath me. I wanted to get off that hot road. I wanted the sun to stop shining so brightly on my naked back. I wanted everything to just go away. But it didn’t. The people who sat on that road with me and came to my rescue saved my life. I wanted to die, but they wouldn’t let me give up, they wouldn’t let me close my eyes and go to sleep. The helicopter ride was fast. The morphine had kicked in just around the time we landed at the hospital, and the rest is somewhat of a blur. I remember hearing a doctor saying I had lost my entire left breast. I remember another asking me if my family had been called. A third doctor asked if she could take pictures of my wounds for documentation. When it came time to clean off my skin, the doctors decided that a surgical debreedment of the dead tissue was necessary, along with invasive repair to my pinky, right big toe, and left side from hip to armpit. I don’t even remember being put under, and the rest is lost in the six hour surgery that followed. THE HOSPITAL I woke up wrapped like a mummy. I was on my back in an air bed, in a room I had never seen. Did I dream that Shaun had come and held my hand? Why were my parents here? I didn’t know what was going on, so I tried to sit up. Then I felt the intense pain on my back, my side, my shins, my feet, my thigh, my hip, my forearms, my wrists, my shoulder, my fingertips, my ribcage, my stomach, and my chest. It all came at me in one large rush, and I knew exactly where I was and remembered what had happened. I spent the next three weeks waking up to the exact same confusion, rush of pain, and realization of my surroundings. My condition never seemed to change for the better, no matter how many times I went through the process of attempting to sleep it off. The worst part about the pain was that it never completely subsided unless I was sleeping, and I had nightmares of the accident every time I slept. I couldn’t escape what had happened to me. On the rare good days, my Dad would brush my hair for hours; it was the only thing that helped me forget what I was going through. My road rash was so severe that my skin was not going to grow back on its own.I had lost too much surface area for the doctors to simply suture me together and send me home. After the blood loss had been controlled, the skin loss needed to be addressed. I was to receive full thickness skin grafts. Literally, the doctors had only 2 places on my body to harvest healthy skin. My thighs were the only two places that had not received any abrasions. In order to help my open wounds heal, the doctors had to cut off a thick layer of healthy skin from my thighs and place it over my burns, surgically stapling the new skin in place. This was the only way to “fix” me, and I didn’t even have enough skin to graft all of my wounds at once. The doctors had to choose which areas to graft first, and which ones would have to wait. Wound vac: a slang medical term that will give me goose bumps for the rest of my life. When a patient receives a skin graft, a suction cup is placed over the completed surgery in order to increase blood flow from under the new skin. These devices are called wound vacuums, and they ensure that the burn tissue does not die, but rather joins with the new skin to create a layer of dermis where none would have grown without the graft surgery. It feels like a leech, a constant sucking on the most painful abrasion you’ve had in your entire life. Multiply your worst skinned knee as a kid by 50, add it to 55 percent of your body, and then let someone suck on it with a handheld vacuum for 24 hours a day; only then will you know what it is to experience a wound vacuum on a fresh skin graft. Each graft received a dose of the painful sucking and after three weeks I was free from the noisy machines. The only thing worse than the wound vacuums were the dressing changes. Even thinking about the pain today makes me sick to my stomach. In the areas the doctors were not able to graft within the first three weeks: my back, chest, rib cage, side, and stomach, they did daily dressing changes to make sure the wounds we being kept clean. My bandages acted as my skin where

the graft surgery had not yet taken place. Every time the doctors changed my dressings, it was as if they were ripping off my skin. The oxygen hitting the open burns was enough to make me scream. Cleaning the wounds with water would send me into a rage. It is safe to say I would have rather been lying on that road again than go through a daily dressing change. This lasted the entire two months I spent in the hospital. Physical therapy, as motivating as it was supposed to be, was just as painful as anyone can imagine. Struggling to sit up in bed, hold myself up without help, and lay back down without hurting the open burns on my back proved itself to be a daunting task. Attempting to stretch my skin, which was tough and thick as leather, once the grafts were slightly healed, made me wince and fear that I would lose all motion in my wrists. I remember getting dizzy just from trying to stand up, blacking out and throwing up from a wheelchair ride down the hall, and crying at night because I couldn’t get up to go to the bathroom on my own. All the abilities I took for granted in my everyday life had come back to haunt me, to teach me a lesson on why I should be thankful for every second I am breathing. Everyday I would dread the moment the doctors came into my room. Whether they were coming to do a conscious sedation for my daily dressing change, whisk me off to another surgery, or put me through physical therapy, my attitude worsened everyday towards the people who were trying to save my skin. It drove me to act bitter towards the people who cared about me the most; my parents were there every day and I know it must have been difficult for them to put up with me. The pain I went through pushed me into a deep depression, but I refused to be put on medication for anything of that nature. I was taking 20 pills with breakfast and dinner every day, I didn’t need to add to that number. I was asked several times if I wanted to talk to a psychologist about the accident, talk about the nightmares my nurses always reported me having at night, but I denied the willing listener. In short, I made sure I paid for my mistakes dearly, not only physically, but emotionally as well, and everyone around me could see the old Brittany fading away. After my final skin graft surgery on November 16th, I woke up feeling as if my back had been completely replaced. The noticeable difference between the open wound and the grafted burn was enough to lift my spirits. I was able to lay comfortably for the first time in two months. I knew the time had come for me to get out of thehospital and start the real healing: returning to my normal life. I had to beg my doctors to let me go home. I couldn’t stand the thought of returning to a physical rehabilitation hospital. With fresh donor sites on my left thigh and a throbbing pain worse than most I had felt, I walked down the hall on the fifth floor three days after surgery so I could go home. I cried with relief when they signed my release paperwork. GOING HOME I walked slowly into my house for the first time in over two months. The smell alone was enough to make me smile, as Thanksgiving dinner was being prepared for the next day. The warm air, the sound of my dog yelping at my return, the softness of my own bed sheets, and the glow of real sunlight pouring in through the bedroom windows gave me the most comfort I had experienced since the accident, and compared to the hospital, it was heaven. I was not on my own by any means; my Mom had to help me shower and give me my blood thinning shots twice a day in my stomach. Walking from my bedroom to the kitchen made me break a sweat, as my muscles had not been used in two months. I still had open wounds, was using a personal walker built for full body support to move around, and couldn’t even dress myself, but I felt a happiness that seemed almost unfamiliar. Coming home was the best thing that could have happened to me. The doctors gave me a month before I would be walking without the walker, but I threw it in the back of my closet after the third day. I ditched my bandages after a week and started wearing jeans ten days later. I was determined to feel normal again, or at last appear normal to the unknowing passerby. I began driving after only two weeks out of the hospital and started living my life as if I had never fallen off that motorcycle. My friends and family could see how quickly I was becoming myself again. I truly believe being around such wonderful support helped me heal as quickly as I did. I was still attending physical therapy, but was improving at speeds that amazed even my own doctors. I was walking up stairs without a second thought and riding the stationary bike with ease. It still hurt to do normal things, even bending my knees to sit in a chair would send pain up my legs, but I learned to ignore it all. I was so used to the way my skin ached, including the itching and burning I would feel every second, that it was as if I never really felt it anymore. My mind had blocked it out and unless I stopped to notice it, the sensitivity and uncomfortable nature of the healing skin grafts wasn’t even in my thoughts.

The morning my hair started to fall out I knew something was wrong. I had been out of the hospital for an entire month but the medication I was taking had just started to leave my system. The combination of chemicals that had kept me alive and comfortable in the hospital was now killing the living cells in my scalp and face. After a week of pulling chunks of my own hair out and watching my eyelashes and eyebrows fall to my cheeks, I felt like a cancer patient taking chemotherapy. I cut my long blonde hair short to try and save as much of it as I could, but it never stopped. You could see through the few thin strands left all the way to my scalp and I even had a couple completely bald spots. I finally had had enough and decided to simply shave my head and get it over with. I cried as the rest of my hair hit the bathroom floor that night. After everything I had suffered as a direct result of the fall: 55 percent body coverage of third degree burns, severed tendons in my left pinky finger, a severely dislocated right big toe, and a large amount of blood loss; what really slowed the healing process was what I experienced in the hospital. Indirect results of the accident due to a prolonged hospital stay: pneumonia, urinary tract infection, pseudomonas infection, blood infection, a blood clot in my left leg, yeast infections, anemia, 3 blood transfusions with 1 adverse reaction, 8 surgeries, 31 conscious sedations, countless skin debreedments, and undiagnosed PTSD and depression. With these things in mind, the loss of my hair seemed minimal at most. My hair would grow back. I was alive, and thankful for that everyday. I knew that what I had gone through would give me the strength to survive anything else God had planned for me in the future. As long as I could walk, talk, and breathe, I was always happy to be on this earth and would never take the blessings in my life for granted again. RETURNING TO RIDING My heart felt heaving knowing something I loved so much had almost cost me my life. I knew the mistakes I had made and the consequences I never wanted to face again. I couldn’t imagine not riding because it was one of my few joys. I knew I would never again ride without my gear. Even on a hot day and a short trip, my helmet would always be on my head and I would make sure it was functioning properly. I was back on a motorcycle as a passenger a few times before I was rid of the fear I felt. Once I was able to go highway speeds, I knew I was ready and able to ride again. I wanted to feel the freedom that comes with being alone on the machine and rolling on the throttle, putting the rest of the world on hold. I bought my 2006 Yamaha R6s on June 22nd from a local dealer. With help from a very close friend, I was reminded of the basics of riding every morning for a couple of weeks in free lessons that were tailored to my needs as a rider. I was taught the importance of knowing that while on a motorcycle, literally anything can happen at any time. Riding prepared for the worst possibilities will always protect you from injury in even the smallest wreck. I know I never want to feel the way I did in the hospital again, and anything I can do to keep that from happening, I will do every time I get on a bike. I learned some new skills in that first month back on the road, but I also learned some important things about myself as well. I learned how strong I really am, especially after returning to the sport that changed my life after almost claiming it. THE FINAL OUTCOME My road rash will take several years to completely heal and will never look or feel normal again. I have conquered the only fear that kept me from riding and I will never put myself in the same position to receive such injuries as I have lived through this past year. I stress the importance of wearing full gear to each and every person I ride with, talk to, or even who happens to read my story. I believe that my experiences are a lesson to every type of rider or passenger. I would never wish the pain I felt and still feel today upon anyone in this world. It is completely avoidable with a few extra layers, and I can’t say it enough: it is undeniably worth it to gear up. Everything I have gone through this past year will not be in vain if my testimony is enough to save someone’s skin.

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 22

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RAIDING THE STREETS

by Matthew Allen

This is my 08’ Yamaha Raider S Tommy blue in color. The engine is a 1900 V-twin. Just had it on the dyno and it’s producing 91HP at about 109TQ. I have just added the Vance & Hines 2-1 Big Radius exhaust, with a K&N filter and a Power Commander III. I am going to get it back on the dyno again soon to check the new numbers I will be putting down with the Metzler 210. I put on the star windshield, Kuryakyn ISO grips, and Kuryakyn mirrors. Everything else is almost stock, with just a couple mods to clean things up to my taste.

METRIC feature

Sturgis Road Trip


In Loving Memory of Theresa Leigh Hunt1958-2008

Most people start out with ambition but allow their lives to become routine over time. A few lucky people live their whole lives with joy and abandon, never allowing each day to become rote or boring. Theresa Leigh Hunt began every morning with a smile on her face and ended each night the same way. Any person who had the privilege to cross paths with Theresa invariably discovered that same smile making its way onto their face. Theresa was a joyful, creative, loving woman who could make anyone’s day better with a simple word and a hug. Filled with a love of life, she never stopped wanting to learn. The things she did during her life are too numerous to list here, but the first thing anyone thinks of when Theresa comes to mind is motorcycles. To Theresa, as to many bikers, her Harley wasn’t a way to get from place to place, but a beloved family member. Theresa rebuilt her 1978 Shovelhead in her kitchen, putting the same determination and ingenuity to use that had served her well her whole life. Never judging someone by what they rode, how long they’d been riding, or how many miles were on their bike, Theresa believed in the brotherhood of the biker. “Riding is riding,” she would say, “We all share the road. The important thing is getting out there.” To her, riding was the epitome of freedom, and that was what mattered. Theresa was as much an angel in life as she is now. It is all our loss that she is gone, and she will be sorely missed by all.

3 Amigas Forever - We love you girl from Cara and Wendy

Tattoo ofthe Month

Theresa, Wendy & Cara


Thunder Jams


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 Thursday 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 at757-903-6541 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 Tuesday 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 703-309-7197or [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 White Oaks Lodge, 3533 Kecoughtan Rd, Hampton , VA 23661-3546. Everyone Welcome. For more information contact Don Cournoyer at 757-723-2019 or [email protected]

American Cruisers Motorcycle Club Chapter 54 - Chesapeake, VA President 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]

Army of The Lord, Virginia (Virginia Beach) Christian Riding Group Meets 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month. 7:30 pmOverseer: Rich “Sluggo” Segarra [email protected] www.armyofthelordva.org

Bayside Hog – Meets 7pm on 3rd Fri. 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. www.bikersforchristNRV.com

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

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

Blue Knights Law Enforcement MC/VA Chapter V – Hampton Roads Meets 4th Wed every month 7 pm, 110 Kempsville Rd, Chesapeake, VA Club 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 VIIIMeets on 1st Wed at the Charlottesville FOP Lodge Info: Willie Barnett (804) 589-1824

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 month Club President - Keith Johnson www.blueknightsvaxiii.com

Blue Ridge Christian Riders CMA Chapter 264Meets 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 Gen-eral 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 areaMeets 1st Sat, 10 am at H-D

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

Sisters of Chrome Women Motorcycle Club/MarylandWomen Content to grabbing the handlebars and steering our own motorcycles. www.sistersofchromemc.com . Contact Sugar Bear – [email protected] or (410) 477-5557. 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 directions 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://star-touring.org/chapter208/ Contact: Bob Gagne (804)458-4759 or [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. Meet-ings 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 orga-nization 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] Membership Officer: Sandy Cartwright email: [email protected]

V MAX Owners Association Eric Ellerman- Regional Director, 8009 Robincrest Ct., Fuquay Varina, NC 27526 (919) 567-1991 home, (919) 244-4660 cell, 150*132514*24 Nextel Direct Connect Jimmy Rey - Chapter Leader Virginia/Dis-trict 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 Club We 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 break-fast & 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 CHAPTER Call (800) 322-1969 or email: [email protected]

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

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

Central VA Trail RidersMeets 7 pm on 1st & 3rd Tues. At a Richmond Rest.(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.

CMA/Blue Ridge Christian Riders (Roanoke area)Meets 3rd Mon. at RVHD 1925 Peters Creek Rd, Roanoke, VAInfo: (540) 588-6191

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

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 associated 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 info, contact President George Smith at [email protected]

Flaming Knights MC - Norfolk Chapterwww.FKMCNORFOLKVA.com Flaming Knights Norfolk P.O. BOX 7022 Norfolk, VA 23509

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

GWWRA Chapter D of Richmond VA2236 Cedar Crest Rd. Richmond, VA 23235

GWTA THE LOONEY TOON RIDERSMeets at 460 Western Sizzlin, 2nd Sat each month at 2 pmFor more info call (540) 265-2986

Hampton Roads Southern Cruisers Riding Club Chapter #26Website http//bikers.crusading.org/ “Cruiser” Mosher 1st Officer HRSC [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/C Meetings & 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

Indian Riders GroupVA Beach Indian Riders Info: (757)449-6017 www.vabirg.com

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 Mountain 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 Associationwww.queenbeezmsa.com P O Box 35396Richmond, 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. 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


Myrtle Beach Cruisin’ the Coast Myrtle Beach Cruisin’ the Coast Myrtle Beach Cruisin’ the Coast Spring Bike Week 2009Spring Bike Week 2009Spring Bike Week 2009Bikers’ Chance to ShineBikers’ Chance to ShineBikers’ Chance to Shine

by Phil Schoonover, Myrtle Beach Harley-Davidson dealer

The Myrtle Beach area is divided over whether to host the annual Harley-Davidson bike week. While many business owners appreciate the festival rev-enue, some local political leaders are proposing measures to discourage bikers from gathering. This is an ongoing debate and one in which we bikers are respectfully engaging.

The Myrtle Beach Harley-Davidson spring bike week began without a government endorsement. It started because people who ride motorcycles like to ride them together and Myrtle Beach was a terrific oceanfront hub. Such gatherings and group travel will continue re-gardless of what the government does with new ordinances and laws, increased police presence, alteration of traffic patterns and reduction or elimination of bike week vendors.

Harley-Da-vidson rally attendees can civilly aid the local bike week debate by showing that we are the courteous, desirable Myrtle Beach visitors we claim to be. As local citizens and elected officials organize to address their rally concerns about traffic and noise, we bikers are putting our best foot forward and doing our part to encourage less congestion and a quieter bike week.

Local Myrtle Beach citizens do not have to rely on government entities to tackle their traffic and noise concerns. The private sector can and should play a role in finding amicable solutions to valid concerns. So Myrtle Beach Harley-Davidson is promoting Cruise the Coast and Throttle Down campaigns to bike week

visitors. Cruise the coast. Myrtle Beach is centrally located

to Charleston, SC and Wilmington, NC where history and culture are prevalent. With Myrtle Beach as your bike week headquarters, you can easily ride to these riverfront towns and experience beautiful Lowcountry vistas and Southern hospitality with your motorcycle friends. Open road exploration throughout the Caro-linas will feed your independent biker spirit. Cruisin’ the coast is undoubtedly part of the Harley-Davidson spring bike week experience.

The Myrtle Beach Harley-Davidson Throttle Down campaign is educating bik-ers about local noise ordinances. Excessive revving and acceleration is not permissible and may result in steep fines. Bike rallies are safer and more enjoy-able for all when everyone obeys the local laws. Please do your part. Each biker who comes to town impacts how the Harley-David-son bike week is perceived.

The next Cruisin’ the Coast Spring Bike Week is May 8 – 17, 2009 and don’t forget this year’s Fall Pilgrimage is October 1 – 5, 2008 in Myrtle Beach. Don’t be fooled by misinformation about these upcoming rallies. Visit www.MyrtleBeachHarley.com or www.MBBikeWeeks.com for all the official details, bike week updates and a long list of biker-friendly accommodations. And during your next bike week, cruise the coast, throttle down and show Myrtle Beach that we are visitors the City wants to welcome.

by Dave Sutton When Dwayne Bondurant broke his foot in August of 2007, he figured that he might be out of work for three months. Complications, infection, two surgeries and almost a year later, he was still not able to return to work. As his money ran out, his folks, Dave and “Mama” Carol Vaughn helped all

that they could. However, soon their resources began drying up and they even considered selling off personal items. People around Lynchburg know that Dave and Carol are always ready to lend a hand. It never occurred to them to ask for help for themselves. Then Dreama Kulman heard about their dire straights. She, Michelle Cartrett and others went into action. A poker run was scheduled for mid-July. Time, materials and even music were donated to help Dwayne through a tough situation. July 19 turned out to be a beautiful day for the 120 mile run. The route began at Logan’s Roadhouse and headed south to Jip’s in the small town of Hurt. Continuing south, we

Proud Family, Good Friends

rolled through Gretna, where a sign proudly proclaims “Ain’t No Big Thing, but We’re Growin’.” On the other side of town, at a crossroads, by a cow field stands BB’s. Its a pretty good place that just seems to be in the middle of a farm. It was here that me and my infamous road atlas struck again. Those that were brave, or silly, enough to follow me left the planned route. We got to ride through a wildlife preserve that none of us even knew existed. Hey, its the ride that counts. We still got to the next stop at Mango’s, beside Smith Mountain Lake. After an-other group left, we realized that we were bringing up the rear and headed back to Lynchburg. Though our group arrived at Big Licks Tropical Grill just as the bands were shutting down, we were assured that Coda and Tooth and Nail righteously rocked the outside deck. Both bands donated their talents to the event. We did get to watch as more donations came about as the $100 first and $150 50/50 prizes were given back to support the cause. Donated door prizes were also awarded. In all, $1800 was netted to help Dwayne with his expenses. Dave and Carol are living proof that good deeds can come back to you. Especially with a little help from your friends.

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 3� THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 3�

The Joker’s Wild

The Joker’s Wild

A woman scanned the guests at a party and spotted an attractive man standing alone. She approached him. “My name is Carmen,” she told him. “That’s a beautiful name,” he replied, “Is it a family name?” “No,” she replied. “I gave it to myself. It reflects the things I like most -- cars and men. What’s your name?” she asked. He paused and thought a moment, “B. J. Titsengolf.”

I went to the US Patent Office trying to register some of my inventions. I went to the main desk to sign in and the lady at the desk had a form that had to be filled out. She wrote down my personal info and then asked me what I had invented. I said, “A folding bottle.” She said, “Okay. What do you call it?” “A Fottle.” “What else do you have?”“A folding carton.” “What do you call it?” “A Farton.” She sniggered and said, “Those are silly names for products and one of them sounds kind of crude.” I was so upset by her comment that I grabbed the form and prepared to leave her office, but not without yelling over my shoulder, “You didn’t even hear about my folding bucket”.

The inventor of the Harley-Davidson motorcycle, Arthur Davidson, died and went to Heaven. At the gates, St. Peter told Arthur. “Since you”ve been such a good man and your motorcycles have changed the world, your reward is, you can hang out with anyone you want to in heaven.” Arthur thought about it for a minute and then said, “ I want to hang out with God.” St. Peter took Arthur to the Throne Room, and introduced him to God. God recognized Arthur and commented, “Okay, so you were the one who invented the Harley-Davidson motorcycle? “Arthur said, “Yeah, that’s me...” God commented: “Well, what’s the big deal in inventing something that’s pretty unstable, makes noise and pollution and can’t run without a road?” Arthur was a bit embarrassed, but finally spoke, “Excuse me, but aren’t you the inventor of woman?” God said, “Ah, yes.” “Well,” said Arthur, “professional to professional, you have some major design flaws in your invention !1. There”s too much inconsistency in the front-end suspension 2. It chatters constantly at high speeds3. Most rear ends are too soft and wobble about too much4. The intake is placed way too close to the exhaust5. The maintenance costs are outrageous!!!!“Hmmmmm, you may have some good points there,” re-plied God, “hold on.” God went to his Celestial supercom-puter, typed in a few words and waited for the results.The computer printed out a slip of paper and God read it.“Well, it may be true that my invention is flawed,” God said to Arthur, “but according to these numbers, more men are riding my invention than yours”.

I saw a flatbed truck going down the road loaded down with “Port-A-Jons”, on the side of each one it read: “Your Shit Is My Bread & Butter”. It made me feel good to know that I was doing my part for the economy every morning after coffee. A man boarded a plane with six kids. After they got settled in their seats a woman sitting across the aisle from him leaned over to him and asked, “Are all of those kids yours?” He replied, “No. I work for a condom company. These are customer complaints.

When I got home last night, my wife demanded that I take her someplace expensive, so, I took her to a gas station. And then the fight started. After retiring, I went to the Social Security office to apply for Social Security. The woman behind the counter asked me for my driver’s li-cense to verify my age. I looked in my pockets and real-ized I had left my wallet at home. I told the woman that I was very sorry, but I would have to go home and come back later. The woman said, “Unbutton your shirt.” So I opened my shirt revealing my curly silver hair. She said, “That silver hair on your chest is proof enough for me,” and she processed my Social Security application. When I got home, I excitedly told my wife about my experience at the Social Security office. She said, “You should have dropped your pants. You might have gotten disability, too.” And then the fight started. My wife and I were sitting at a table at my high school reunion, and I kept staring at a drunken lady swigging her drink as she sat alone at a nearby table. My wife asked, “Do you know her?” “Yes,” I sighed. “She”s my old girlfriend. I understand she took to drinking right after we split up those many years ago, and I hear she hasn”t been sober since.” “My God!” says my wife. “Who would think a person could go on celebrating that long?!” And then the fight started .

It seems that his father, grandfather and great-grand-father had all been able to walk on water on their 21st birthday. On that special day, they”d each walked across the lake to the bar on the far side for their first legal drink. So when Bubba’s 21st birthday came a round, he and his pal Jim Bob took a boat out to the middle of the lake, Bubba stepped out of the boat ... and nearly drowned! Jim Bob just barely managed to pull him to safety. Furious and confused, Bubba went to see his grandmother. “Grandma,” he asked, “it’s my 21st birth-day, so why can’t I walk ‘cross the lake like my pappy, his father, and his father before him?” Granny looked deeply into Bubba’s troubled eyes and said, “Because your father, your grandfather and your great grandfather were born in January, when the lake is frozen, and you were born in July, you frickin’ idiot.

A woman went to her doctor for advice. She told him that her husband had developed a penchant for anal sex and she was not sure that it was such a good idea. “Do you enjoy it?” The doctor asked. “Well actually, yes, I do.”, she exclaimed.. “Does it hurt you?” he asked. “No. I rather like it.” “Well, then,” the doctor continued, “there”s no reason that you shouldn”t practice anal sex, if that”s what you like, so long as you take care not to get pregnant.” The woman was mystified....”What? You can get pregnant from anal sex?”” “Of course,” the doctor replied. “Where do you think politicians come from”?

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 3� THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 37

These pictures are from Sunday July 27Th, 2008. We went to see Clair’s headstone that Bikers for Christ and the Iron Horsemen MC, Phantoms MC, Red Knights MC, Deril-ics MC and many others helped to make possible. Many thanks to all of you for your help. The lord will truly bless you for what you have done. Pictures used with permission from Iron Horsemen for public use.

Respect and Honor Jesus Is Lord Southern Maryland Bikers For Christ Gordon Bacon

BIKERSfor ChristWe Will Never Forget9/11/01

Says THANK YOUSays THANK YOUFor All You DoFor All You Do

SUPPORTSUPPORTOUR TROOPSOUR TROOPS

In The DayBACKMichele Smith Gets Thunder Roads

Shouldn’t You?To get Thunder Roads Magazine In The Mail

Send Check Or Money Order For $39.00 ($3.25 - S & H per issue) Made Out To:

Mid-Atlantic Thunder Roads 1920 Centerville Turnpike,

Suite 117-270 Virginia Beach, VA 23464

NAME________________________________

STREET______________________________

CITY____________________ZIP___________

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 38 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 3�

Diva Customs501 17th St.

Virginia Beach, VA 23451(757) 428-DIVA

www.divacustoms.com

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

Low Cost Fine Leather Apparel www.LeatherMotorcycleJacketandApparel.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

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) 436-7400

www.hausoftrikes.com

North Carolina

Davis Harley-Davidson2215 Hanford Rd.

Burlington, NC 27215(336) 227-1261

www.davishd.com

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

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 Drive

Virginia Beach, VA(757) 363-2453

www.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

Colonial Harley-Davidson/Buell1701 Temple Parkway

Prince George, VA (804) 861-4700

Departure Bike Works5216 Hull St

Richmond, VA 23224(804) 231-0244

www.departure.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) 476-6607www.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

5 Park Center Court, Suite 301 Owings Mills, MD 21117

(800) 875-6554

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

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

Live Wire Restaurant & Lounge4108 Oaklawn Blvd Hopewell Va 23860

(804) 452-0533

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 & Grill565 Cedar Road

Chesapeake, Va 23322(757) 549-0367

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

EVERY NIGHT IS BIKE NIGHT!

Sportsman Restaurant3306 Williamsburg Rd.Richmond, VA 23231

(804) 236-1911

Thunder Bird Grill, “That 60’s place”Hot Rods & Bikes Welcome

201 Battery Park RoadSmithfield , VA 23430

Rt 10 Business behind Farmers Bank www.ThunderbirdGrill.com

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.com

Shenandoah Harley-Davidson/Buell

213 Rolling Thunder LaneStaunton, VA 24401

(540) 213-8026www.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 23841Biker 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 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

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Thunderfoot: A Metal Storm We saw them at Apehangers after attending a bike show in Maryland. Chatting with the bartender, the owner’s favorite band is Thunderfoot and they like to schedule them for big occasions. The Thunderfoot band roster reads like a rock music “Who’s Who” or a “Where Are They Now?” list. Each has played with some of the best rock bands at one time or another. Several also currently play with Southern Rock Allstars and Rhythm Pigs. As founding guitarist and lead singer, Scott Mabrey gave us background on the band members and how the band got it’s name. The late Jakson Spires was known as “Thunderfoot” because of the way he played the drums. The band sponsors music scholarships in Jakson’s honor which are presented annually to students in underserved areas who want to attend Ann Arbor School of the Performing Arts. Scott is sound engineer when they play gigs and when they record their original music in the studio. Mark “BamBam” McConnell has a heavy metal background. After unleashing his talent on the drums on a European tour with Savatage, Wasp and Sebastian Bach, he is a human metronome for a monsterous drum frenzy. If he was playing the game “Rock Band” his Energy Meter would go through the roof! Paul “General” Patten plays a mean harmonica and wields the mic especially on the Molly Hatchett tunes. Charles “Fireball” Hart is the bassist and vocals. Charles recently earned a gold record for his work as sound engineer. New to the group is Kyle Chandler on guitar with an voice well-suited for R&B. He is a grad from the Atlanta Institute of Music. Scott “Tank” Mabrey originally from Michigan, likes living in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. He enjoys its rich past as it was known as the “Recording Capital of the World.” When Lynyrd Skynryd sang about it in “Sweet Home Alabama,” the lyric “Muscle Shoals has got the swampers” refers to the house band and producers at the Muscle Shoals Recording Studio. Lynyrd Skynrd nicknamed them “swampers” because of the swamp-like land of Alabama. (Interesting factoid to throw in here). They will appear at the Delmarva Bike Fest at the Atlantic Hotel Sept 11, 12 & 13 in Ocean City. Thunderfoot combines classic and southern rock with incredible sound engineering for a show you can’t miss! Thunderfoot gear, CDs, schedule and booking info can be found on their website: www.thunderfoot.net, and www.thunderfootrocks.com

BZgal, Tigger & Apehanger

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News Bytes News BytesGAS PRICES FUEL RECORD SCOOTER SALES Rising fuel prices and recession fears have spurred nation-wide interest in motorcycles and scooters, and a new survey indicates more people are considering two-wheelers due to soaring prices at the pump. PowerSports Business reported in July that first half scooter sales increased by 65 percent, vali-dating a consumer trend towards more fuel efficient transpor-tation. Other sources published similar reports such as The New York Times’, June 6, 2008 article “As Gas Prices Soar, Scooters Grow in Popularity”; and The Wall Street Journal, May 21, 2008 article, “Fuel Efficient Scooter Use Takes Off.” In an August 1, 2008 article in PowerSports Business, Yama-ha Motor Co. reported that its U.S. retail motorcycle new unit sales grew 12.4 percent compared to a year ago. With most motorcycles averaging from 40 to 60 miles per gallon and many scooters averaging up to 100 or more miles per gallon, a lot of people are now interested in acquiring these vehicles for cost-conscious commuting. A recent PowerSports Busi-ness article released the results of a survey conducted by Consumer Reports National Research Center indicating that more than one-quarter of U.S. consumers are considering purchasing a motorcycle or scooter. Eighteen percent are thinking of buying a motorcycle while 14 percent are con-templating buying a scooter. “The era of smaller, more fuel efficient vehicles is upon us,” commented Anthony Havens, CEO of Sparta financial and management services for the powersports industry. “Until recently, motorcycles and scoot-ers were considered the choice of enthusiasts, or people who were just interested in fun and recreation. But, with gas prices dramatically rising, a growing number of consumers are buying motorcycles and scooters for extremely practical reasons.” “In 1998, there were about 15,000 scooter sales, which represented about 5 percent of all licensable motorcy-cle sales,” said Mike Mount, a spokesman for the Motorcycle Industry Council. “In 2007, there were about 131,000 sales, which represents 15 percent of licensable sales. It might be easy to think scooters and mopeds are only popular among teenage boys itching to get their first taste of the open road, but sales figures indicate that both scooters and mopeds are increasingly being purchased by a maturing demographic. In 1990, the median age for scooter owners was 26, according to a survey conducted by the MIC, but by 2003 the median age jumped to 46.

AMERICANS DRIVING LESSAmerican driving has reached its eighth month of steady de-cline, a trend officials say signals an urgent need for new forms of highway financing to supplement the gas tax. New data released by the U.S. Department of Transportation show that, since last November, Americans have driven 53.2 billion miles less than they did over the same period a year earlier -- topping the 1970s’ total decline of 49.3 billion miles. Americans drove 4.7 percent less, or 12.2 billion miles fewer, in June 2008 than June 2007, based on vehicle-miles-trav-eled data collected by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). The decline is most evident in rural travel, which has

fallen by 4 percent – compared to the 1.2 percent decline in urban miles traveled – since the trend began last November. As Americans drive fewer miles, less revenue is generated for the Highway Trust Fund from gasoline and diesel sales -- 18.4 cents per gallon and 24.4 cents per gallon, respectively. During the first quarter of 2008, motorists consumed nearly 400 million fewer gallons of gasoline, or about 1.3 percent less than during the same period in 2007, and 7 percent less -- or 318 million gallons -- of diesel. “We can’t afford to con-tinue pinning our transportation network’s future to the gas tax,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Mary E. Peters. “Ad-vances in higher fuel-efficiency vehicles and alternative fuels are making the gas tax an even less sustainable support for funding roads, bridges and transit systems.”

U.S. TRAFFIC DEATHS DROP TO LOWEST LEVEL IN A DECADETraffic deaths in the United States declined last year, reach-ing the lowest level since 1994, reported the National High-way Traffic Safety Administration. Some 41,059 people were killed in highway crashes, down by more than 1,600 from 2006. It was the fewest highway deaths in a year since 1994, when 40,716 people were killed. The fatality rate of 1.37 deaths for every 100 million miles traveled in 2007 was the lowest on record, NHTSA said in its report. Motorcycle deaths increased for the 10th straight year. There were 5,154 motorcycle deaths last year, compared with 4,837 in 2006. The increased deaths have come while the number of reg-istered motorcycles has surpassed 6 million, compared with 3.8 million in 1998, and vehicle miles traveled have risen. Transportation officials said they plan to target motorcyclists in a $13 million anti-drunken-driving advertising campaign running during the Labor Day holiday. The department also has discussed new safety and training standards for novice riders, increased training for law enforcement and curbing counterfeit safety-labeling of helmets.

INCREASING FATALITIES MAKE MOTORCYCLES A TARGET As more people turn to two-wheel transportation, tripling the number of new motorcycles hitting the road over the past decade, the corresponding increase in motorcycle accidents and fatalities has made motorcyclists a target for stiffer reg-ulations, stricter safety standards and select enforcement. State and federal officials fear the problem could grow as higher gas prices push more first-time riders toward motor-cycling without proper training and licensing. “With gas pric-es on the increase, more people are riding motorcycles to work,” said South Carolina trooper Lance Cpl. Bob Beres. “They’re not just using them for leisure.” Most motorcyclists who died during a recent 18-month period studied by the S.C. Highway Patrol either had a beginner’s license or no license at all, and troopers worry that inexperience could put newer riders at greater risk. Of the 99 fatal motorcycle crashes they investigated from July 2006 to December 2007, 36 riders had beginner’s licenses -- the same number as

those with a regular license. Twenty-five had no license and two had expired licenses. Motorcycle riders were at fault in about three-quarters of the fatal crashes. The major causes were speeding, failing to yield the right of way and driving under the influence. The S.C. Highway Patrol was awarded a $75,000 grant to create a Ride Smart safety campaign aimed at motorcyclists, particularly beginning riders. Law enforce-ment agencies nationwide are stepping up efforts to curb rising fatalities by targeting motorcycles. As part of a state funded Saving Lives program, the California Highway Patrol conducted a sweep of the 605 freeway looking for motorcy-clists not obeying traffic laws, high handlebars and improper helmets, and will be keeping a closer eye on cyclists in highly concentrated areas through the summer. They ticketed 62 motorcyclists, 21 of which didn’t have a motorcycle license. Officers impounded the 21 bikes. The National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM) has recently taken the New York State Police and NYS Dept. of Motor Vehicles to task for setting up discriminatory “Safety Check” roadblocks for motorcyclists en route to large rallies, threatening a class-action lawsuit through Aid to Injured Motorcyclists (AIM), but meanwhile other states are taking similar targeted actions toward mo-torcycle riders under the pretense of safety concerns.

UTAH ENACTS TIERED LICENSING FOR MOTORCYCLISTSEffective July 8, 2008, Utah will begin using a tiered licensing system for motorcycle endorsements. - If a rider tests on a 90cc or less motorcycle or scooter they will be restricted to 90cc or less.- If a rider tests on a 249cc or less motorcycle or scooter they will be restricted to 249cc or less.- If a rider tests on a 649cc or less motorcycle or scooter they will be restricted to 649cc or less.- If a rider tests on a motorcycle or scooter larger than 650cc they will be allowed to ride any motorcycle or scooter. If a rider takes a motorcycle safety class on a 250cc, successful completion will waive the rid-ing part of the license test for an up to 649cc endorsement. To get an endorsement for motorcycles above 649cc riders must use a larger motorcycle in the safety class. To use your own bike in a class you must have a permit, registration, and insurance. If a rider currently rides a motorcycle over 649cc they may obtain a skill test waiver by successfully completing a License Waiver Experienced Rider Course (ERC), a 5 hour course that costs $85.

OKLAHOMA MAY OUTLAW GANGS State Rep. Paul Wesselhoft (R-Oklahoma City) told the Tulsa World newspaper that he wants to outlaw gangs by passing a law to enable gang members to be charged with a misde-meanor, even though he admits that such a law might not pass constitutional muster. Tim Hock, vice president of the Oklahoma Gang Investigators Association, said he strongly endorses Wesselhoft’s efforts, and that allowing gang mem-bers to be charged with a misdemeanor would give officers the means to interrogate them about criminal activity in the community. Tulsa Police Chief Ron Palmer said, “There are various types of gangs -- outlaw motorcycle gangs, white

supremacy groups, Asian, Hispanic and African American gangs.” They can be identified by gang names, tattoos and, in some cases, the color of clothes they wear, he said. But Andrew Spiropoulos, a law professor at Oklahoma City Uni-versity, said lawmakers “have to be very careful when they legislate gang membership as illegal, because under the First Amendment, a person cannot be prosecuted because they are a member of a group.” He said a person can be prosecuted only for conduct. “Generally, what states and cities have done is that they usually attack some activity in addition to being a gang member,” he said. “This is very dis-turbing news,” relayed Tiger Mike Revere, State Coordinator of ABATE of Oklahoma and member of the National Coali-tion of Motorcyclists (NCOM) board of directors, “We’ll have to keep a very close eye on this one in Oklahoma, as this type of legislation passed in other states, as in California and Ohio, has been used to directly discriminate against and ha-rass Motorcycle Clubs, and not just 1%ers.”

BAR OWNER ACCUSES POLICE OF DISCRIMINATING AGAINST HER PATRONSA Green Bay, Wisconsin bar owner says the police depart-ment is discriminating against her because of her clientele. Kim VandenBusch says 75 percent of the regulars at Kimmers Bar & Grill are members of a motorcycle club. Last week the city granted the owner a liquor license with a unique stipula-tion. The police department asked her to hang a sign in the bar that says “No club colors,” referring to the back patches worn by motorcycle club members. “I was very much under duress on signing that because they said if I didn’t sign it I wouldn’t get my license,” VandenBusch told WBAY-TV, add-ing that it’s unfair because the bar has a good track record with the police department. “I felt it was very wrong. I felt it was discriminating. It should be up to the owner of the es-tablishment to decide what clientele they want.” But the po-lice department has every right to do this. Last year the city passed an ordinance that says every establishment wanting a liquor license must first have its business plan approved by the police department. Police Captain Bill Galvin said, “There can be fights, shootings, drug dealing, drug usage, things like that occurring at places where these gang members hang out.” Galvin says putting up a simple sign will eliminate potential problems, but VandenBusch hasn’t put one up yet. Instead, she’s appealing to the Protection and Welfare Com-mittee.

QUOTABLE QUOTE: “I think legislative assaults on motorcyclists are totally emo-tional, disproportionate and totally unfair... They are instigat-ed and implemented by people who know nothing about mo-torcycling, but have a prejudice. It’s easy to curb the freedoms of others when you see no immediate impact on your own.”Malcolm Forbes (1919-1990), publisher & avid motorcyclist

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POINTMAN PERSPECTIVE

WREATHS ACROSS AMERICATHANK YOU VIRGINIA FOR LEADING THE WAY The WAA team has been gearing up for our

Wreaths Across America ceremony on December 13th at the Richmond National Cemetery since early July. It is so easy to get caught up in everything that needs to be done that I sometimes overlook some very important events and people that have helped me and Sam get this wonderful event going. My co worker Wendy Sprouse reminded me of all the great things that I have been blessed with this year. Wendy was so right, I have so much to be grateful for and I promise to try to remember to keep those things in my heart and thank God every day for all he has brought forth.

Thank you Virginia. This past February the Richmond City Council unanimously proclaimed the second Saturday of each December as “Wreaths Across America Day” for the city of Richmond. Special thanks to Council members Ellen Robert-son, Reva Trammell, Doug Conner, and President Bill Pantele. Shortly thereafter, the Richmond City School Board gave WAA the same proclamation. I cannot begin to express my gratitude and heart felt appreciation for the council members and school board members for their support. Thanks seem to fall woefully short, but know that Sam and I love and appreciate you.

This past July a very special feather was put in our WAA hat. Governor Tim Kaine signed a procla-mation declaring the second Saturday of December as “Wreaths Across America Day” for the Common-wealth of Virginia. Thank you Governor Kaine. Let me recap; The City of Richmond was the first city in the country to recognize WAA as a special day. The Richmond School Board was the first school board to recognize WAA and now The Commonwealth of Virginia is the first state in the country to officially recognize WAA as a special day. In addition, Sam Tinsley and I were given a Community Service Award for our work with WAA. I’m seldom speech-less but I’m running out of words to express my appreciation to all of these very special people.

My efforts here would not be complete with out a very special tribute to my dear friend, aide-de-camp, and right hand man; retired Marine Sgt Cliff Troutman. Cliff was instrumental in all the recogni-tion WAA received form City Council, the School Board and the Governors office. I promoted him to “Colonel” in our little organization, but he insists that he is a sergeant, he says “ I work for a living.” He is

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Rocky is an ordained minister, a Vietnam vet, and an outpost leader for Pointman 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 Coali-tion 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 Motorcy-clist’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.

a five star general in my eyes. Cliff is a decorated Viet-nam vet who was severely wounded several times in action. Cliff continues to be my trusted friend and I am his ally in the battle against “The Evil Empire.” Thank you my friend.

May the road rise up to meet youMay the wind always be at your backMay the rain fall gently on your fieldsUntil we meet again may God hold you in the hollow of His hand

Reverend RockRev R.J.(Rocky) Angone, Jr.BlackHorse TrooperPointman International MinistriesWreaths Across America; Richmond National Cemetery(H)804-796-6626(w)804-745-3445(C)[email protected]

THE ULTIMATE MOOD LIFTER – CHOCOLATE!A little chocolate can fix anything, right? It’s sweet, delicious and creamy, and it seems to make us feel a lot better once we’ve eaten it. Well, it turns out, chocolate’s mood-boosting ability is not all in our heads -- eating the sweet stuff really does make us feel happy, content and soothed. Why? The fat, sugar, and high amounts of tryptophan found in chocolate work together to raise serotonin and endorphin levels in the brain. Compounds in chocolate react with receptors in the brain, which can actually dull pain and ease your mind. These compounds can also increase alertness in the brain. The result? Your mouth will be happy -- and so will the rest of you.

GOOD FOR YOU!

Thunder Jams

BBQ with a bang

REDNECK

GRILL

EVER WONDER WHY???There is no egg in eggplant nor ham in hamburger; nei-

ther apple nor pine in pineapple. English muffins weren’t invented in England or French fries in France.

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

Quicksand works slowly, boxing rings are square and a guinea pig is neither from Guinea nor is it a pig. And why is it that writers write, but fingers don’t fing, grocers don’t groce and hammers don’t ham?

If the plural of tooth is teeth, why isn’t the plural of booth beeth? One goose, 2 geese. So one moose, 2 meese?

Doesn’t it seem crazy that you can make amends but not one amend. If you have a bunch of odds and ends and get rid of all but one of them, what do you call it? Is it an odd, or an end?

If teachers taught, why didn’t preachers praught? If a vegetarian eats vegetables, what does a humanitarian eat? In what language do people recite at a play and play at a recital? Ship by truck and send cargo by ship? Have noses that run and feet that smell?

How can a slim chance and a fat chance be the same, while a wise man and a wise guy are opposites?

You have to marvel at the unique lunacy of a language in which your house can burn up as it burns down, in which you fill in a form by filling it out, and in which, an alarm goes off by going on.

English was invented by people, not computers, and it reflects the creativity of the human race, which, of course, is not a race at all. That is why, when the stars are out, they are visible, but when the lights are out, they are invisible.

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thunder roads virginia magazine - september '08

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