Thunder Roads Virginia Magazine - April '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 & www.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]

CorrespondentsMid-Atlantic Thunder Roads

Sales / Correspondents

Beth Albert - Sales [email protected]

Phone: cell (804) 536-1299

Thunder Roads Crew

Lorree & Randy Kidder

Bo Albert Cindy Mease

Tim Wilmoth Ricky Derby

Dave Sutton

Cathy “Bzgal” Clare Chris “Tigger” Rockhill

On Eagle’s Wings Writers

Reverend Rock Rick Saunders

All of our Correspondents volunteer their time & efforts each month, taking to the road so they can bring the stories & pictures here for you, the readers, to enjoy.

Hey folks – how’s everyone doing this beautiful month of April? What a gorgeous time of year with all the flowers & trees in bloom & the world is bursting with color. There’s no better way to enjoy these wonderful gifts that mother nature brings to us each year than taking it all in from the open road on our bikes. Most of us have very hectic crazy schedules between our work, families & home so there’s not always a lot of time to ride unless we take the day off or maybe catch a ride in on the weekends. I’m sure I don’t have to remind you how life is like a roll of toilet paper…the closer it gets to the end, the faster it goes. Not that I think I’m anywhere near my end, but I’ve learned through the years, as many of us have, that life is way too precious to waste even a moment of it. I really like the saying from our webmaster’s wcfstudios.com site “Work Hard – but Play Harder!”. To me, part of “playing” is riding my bike but it’s also incredible therapy for the heart & soul, which I know many of you can relate to. Whether you’re a rider or a passenger, take advantage of your opportunities to hit the road when you can & take some time out for yourself – you deserve it & for many…YOU NEED IT!

I’d like to remind you all that our magazine is able to get out to you each month, not only because of our fantastic crew that works extremely hard putting things together for you, but through the financial support of our advertisers. We would not be here without them – so please stop in to see them when you can & let them know you saw them here in Thunder Roads. They are all here for you & want you to know that you’re welcome through their doors anytime. We wouldn’t be here without you, our readers, either – YOU really do keep the thunder rolling through the Mid-Atlantic…thanks for being here with us!

We hope you all have a fantastic month with lots of love in your hearts, peace in your lives & that wonderful wind in your face! We’ll see you next month….

KellyALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NO PART OF ITS CONTENT MAY BE REPRODUCED WITH-OUT WRITTEN PERMISSION. PUBLISHER ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY AND IS NOT TO BE HELD LIABLE FOR ERRORS BEYOND THE COST OF THE SPACE OC-CUPIED BY THE ERROR, SLANDER OF ANY GROUP OR INDIVIDUAL, FAILURE TO PRODUCE ANY ISSUE AS SCHEDULED DUE TO REASONS BEYOND OUR CON-TROL, ANY AND ALL SUITS FOR LIABLE, PLAGIARISM, COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT AND UNAUTHORIZED USE OF A PERSON’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 PROMOTE THE ABUSE OF ALCO-HOL OR OTHER DRUGS.

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

South/Southwestern VA (including Lynchburg, Danville, Roanoke, Blacksburg, Christiansburg, Radford, Wytheville & Abingdon):

Warren Ells, Art Director Thunder Pub.

Layout & Design

Rod the MagnificentAd Design

WEBMASTERWilliam C. Fromiller www.WCFStudios.com

MySpace Mgr: Stacie Bennett

myspace.com/thunderroads_virginia

WEB

SOUNDCHECK

BZgal, Tigger & Apehanger Laurie Schober

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

Leah [email protected]

(540) 836-9989

Linda [email protected]

(757) 735-8737

DeAna Borza [email protected]

(804) 698-9627

Joe “Gunner” [email protected]

(757) 338-1414

Central VA (including Rich-mond, Ashland, Petersburg, Hopewell, Colonial Heights & Mechanicsville):

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

East/Southeastern Va (including South Hill, Emporia, Hampton Roads, Williamsburg, the Peninsula & the Eastern Shore):

North/Northeastern VA (incl.Orange, Fredericksburg, Front Royal & Winchester) DC, & Southern MD:

Matt [email protected]

(703) 919-3381

If you’d like your event listed in our calendar, please drop us a line @ [email protected]. 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!

APRIL 2008

Apr 5th 5th Annual Welcome Home Poker Run – North Myrtle Beach, SC Hosted by Chapter 925 Vietnam Veterans of America Ride starts from B&M Cycles kings Hwy and 6th Ave south. Registration opens at 11:00 a.m. All bikes out at 12:00 noon. last bike in @ 5:00 p.m. Prizes for best and worst hands, drink specials, 50/50 drawing music and food. Entry just $20.00 pre rider All monies go to support the Chapter and it’s associated charities. For more information contact Bill Holland (843) 458-1440 or e-mail [email protected]. Rain date April 12th, 2008.

Apr 6th Biker Sunday 5 – Clinton, SC With special guest speaker Russ Clear (former Hells Angel and current PowerForce member)wwwjohacobsnextgenerationpowerforce.com. Location -First Baptist Church, 301 South Broad Street, Clinton, SC 29325. 8:00am breakfast, coffee, fellowship and registration followed by a 10:00am Biker Service with Russ Clear, BBQ lunch, door prizes and The Bub Lollis Whitten Center Spring Run at 2:00pm (for those that want to participate) KSU at 1:30pm leaving the church for Copeland Plaza for parade through Whitten Center. For those participating in the Bub Lollis Whitten Center Run following the service, please bring things like Ivory Soap, Adult Diapers, Toothpaste, Toothbrushes, Feminine Napkins, Baby Shampoo, Unscented lotions, etc. Monetary donations are always welcome too! Hotel accommodations are available in Clinton, SC. This event is free and is primarily but not exclusively for bikers. Everyone is welcome. For more information, directions or a flyer, please contact Chris or Mandy Snow at 864-923-3165 or [email protected]

Apr 6th 1st Annual Ride For A Cure – Poquoson, VA The start location will be at the Poquoson City Pool Parking Lot located at 16 Municipal Drive , Poquoson , VA. Registration will begin at 10AM. Parade of bikes leaves at 1:00PM. There is a $10.00 donation per rider and a $5.00 donation for passengers. ALL DONATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED!! The 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 will end back at the Poquoson City Pool Parking Lot where there will be food and drinks, as well as LIVE MUSIC performed by Tim Hopkins!! Raffle for prizes, 50/50 drawing and awards will be presented for largest organization, farthest ridden, oldest rider and more… All proceeds will benefit the American Cancer Society Relay For Life Program. T-shirts for the event will be on sale! For information, please contact Larry Wainwright at (757) 714-8827 or e-mail [email protected] or Dale Simmons at (757) 880-3806 or e-mail [email protected]. NO Alcoholic Beverages Allowed!

Apr 6th The Richmond Riders 15th Annual Poker Run – Richmond, VA All proceeds to go to benefit The Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation. 9am – 3pm Rain or Shine. Registration begins at 9. Last bike out by 11:30am. Event begins at the Shoppes at Bellgrade at the corner of Huguenot & Robius Rd. in the parking lot adjacent to River City Diner. Entry fee is $10 per player for a 5 card hand and $15 for a 7 card hand. Prizes will be awarded at the end of the ride around 2:30pm. Maps, directions & instructions will be distributed at registration the day of the ride. Come join us for a fun filled day of motorcycling down some of the best riding roads in Central Virginia. Donations are gladly accepted. Please make checks payable to The Richmond Riders, and mail to The Richmond Riders Motorcycle Club, 7906 West Broad, Richmond, VA 23294. For more information or to contact us, visit our website www.richmondriders.com

Apr 12th LADIES GARAGE PARTY – Danville, VA 5:30pm – 7:30pm. Thunder Road Harley-Davidson, 4960 Riverside Dr., Danville, VA (434) 822-BIKE www.thunderroadhd.com

Apr 12th You can’t beat the I.R.S. Parking Lot Event - Woodbridge, VA Tired of putting numbers into little boxes, join us for the only anti-TaxMan party around. Bike Show {register by 12:00}, skills contests’; Food & DJ. Bring your completed taxes and the Renegade Girls will stamp and mail it for you!! 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

Apr 12th Center for Children BIIKR Ride – LaPlata, MD Come out and help abused and neglected kids by participating in the 3rd Annual Center for Children BIIKR (Bikers Involved in Kids Recovery) Ride. Registration starts at 10, ride begins at 11. Poker Run format with 6 stops and ending at Hooters of Waldorf. Cost is $25 for single rider, $40 for two on a bike. Includes t-shirt for each participant and food at Hooters. Winner guaranteed $400 payout. 6100 Radio Station Road, La Plata, MD, 20646. Call Ann Seely at 301-609-9887, for more information. [email protected]

Apr 13th 3rd Annual Capernaum Motorcycle Scavenger Hunt and Family Picnic-Virginia Beach, VA Sunday April 13th check in 10:00 to 11:30. Bubbas restaurant at the corner of Princess Anne and Dam Neck Rd, VB. Family picnic starts at 1:00 all scavengers back by 1:30.

$10.00 pr. bike $500 pr. rider. Picnic $5.00. Proceeds will help fund summer camp for kids with disabilities. Food, Music, Games, 50/50 raffle, Trophies, Door prizes. Young Life Capernaum is a nonprofit Christian out reach ministry for kids with disabilities. www.myspace.com/hamptonroadscapernaum & www.capernaum-hamptonroads.younglife.org

Apr 16th Hogs4hokies.org spirit ride – Fairfax, VA Help commemorate the 1st anniversary of the April 16, 2007 tragedy at VA Tech. Join our Hogs4Hokies.org spirit ride from NOVA to Blacksburg to raise $ for the 32 victims scholarship funds. Start in Fairfax, Va and end in Blacksburg with several stops along the way. Please email with your intentions to ride so we can keep you informed of further details. Check our webpage at hogs4hokies.org. Frank Salzano [email protected]. 703-999-7880

Apr 19th CANCER ROUND ROBIN AND OUTSIDE SWAP MEET – Danville, VA Rain date Apr 26th. Thunder Road Harley-Davidson, 4960 Riverside Dr., Danville, VA (434) 822-BIKE www.thunderroadhd.com

Apr 19th 25th Annual New Rock 102.1 the X Chili Cook Off – Richmond, VA To benefit the Make A Wish Foundation. Richmond Raceway Complex. The Ultimate One day Event! 11am – 7pm. Rain or Shine. Your business & products can be seen by over 20,000 people in one day.

April 19th Habitat For Humanity Ride Virginia Poker Run – Luray, VA Sponsored by Outlanders, Luray, VA to benefit the Page County Habitat for Humanity seeking to help people in need of affordable decent housing. Scenic 75 mile route thru Shenandoah Valley. www.outlanders.ws

Apr 19th & 20th Hogs4hokies.org spirit ride - Fairfax VA Help commemorate the 1st anniversary of the April 16, 2007 tragedy at VA Tech. Join our Hogs4Hokies.org spirit ride from NOVA to Blacksburg to raise $ for the 32 victims scholarship funds. Start in Fairfax, VA and end in Blacksburg with several stops along the way. Please email with your intentions to ride so we can keep you informed of further details. Check our webpage at hogs4hokies.org Frank Salzano [email protected]. 703-999-7880

Apr 19th Habitat for Humanity benefit Poker Run – Winchester, VA Sponsored by Winchester VA Harley Davidson www.hdwinchester.com

Apr 19th “Ride For The Red” – Petersburg, VA Hosted by Southside Chapter of the American Red Cross. Memorial Ride will start at 11:00am registration begins at 9:00am. Ride begins and ends at Petersburg Sport Complex in Petersburg, Va. (Rain or Shine). $20/Rider $15/Passenger - Registration includes lunch and Event T-shirt Bike Show hosted by Red Knights Chapter 8. Register on site, day of event. Raffle and Door prizes available for sale. All proceeds benefit the American Red Cross- Southside Area Chapter which provides services to disaster victims and their families in the Southside Area. Contact Rosalyn Andrews at 1-800-455-9283 for information or mail registration to American Red Cross- Southside Area Chapter 3267 A South Crater Road, Petersburg Va. 23805

Apr 19th RAZOR-TEC USA GRAND OPENING- Chesapeake, VA 9:00am-7:00pm Invites you to experience “The World’s Most Advanced Spray-On-Chrome & Custom Paints” and enjoy live demonstrations, Finished Product Displays, Airbrush Art Work Display, Door Prizes, Food & Drinks, Music and much more! Razor-Tec USA, 1222 Executive Blvd Chesapeake, VA 23322 Contact Colin Cardosi 757-410-3446 [email protected]

Apr 19th 1st Annual Run for the Kids of St.Jude’s Children’s Hospital- Lynchburg,VA Poker Run Registration at Tree Of Life on Greenview Dr.. Reg. Fee $15.00 Per Rider. This includes one free event T-Shirt up to XXL Time 8am-11am...last bike out 11am Poker Run Stops-Tree Of Life on Greenview Dr...D-Day Memorial...MANGO”S BAR...JIP’S DINER...TOLM”The Repair Shop”US 29 S Altavista...Marilyn’s Cafe US 29 N 6 Card Stops with option to purchase 7th Card for $5... 5 Card Hand After Discard...1st, 2nd, 3rd Place Trophies..Register For Free Door Prizes At Each Stop...TATTOO CONTEST To Follow Run w/ Awards @ Marilyn’s Biker Bar Registration Fee $5.00...ALL PROCEEDS GO TO ST. JUDE’S HOSPITAL....For Information Ken Silby (434) 665-1707 Billy Powell (434) 528-4122...Sponsors- Hard Core Motorcycle Ministries and Billy Powell’s Ink Works Tattoo and Body Piercings- ASCENT Business Services, Bedrock Thunder, HOPARS.

Apr 20th 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 April 27th.

Apr 20th East Coast Virginia HOG Chapter Spring Poker Run – Dumphries, VA East Coast Virginia Chapter invites all bikes to participate in our Spring Poker Run on Sunday, April 20, 2008. Proceeds to benefit the Boys & Girls Club of Dumfries, VA. Registration begins at 10:00am at East Coast Harley-Davidson located at 17975 Main St., on Rt. 1 in Dumfries, (703) 221-3757. Last bike out at noon. Each poker hand is $10. Prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place hands plus the worst hand. Rain date would be April 27th.

Apr 20th 2008 Police & Fire Ride for Leukemia – Baltimore, MD Harley-Davidson/Buell Store of Baltimore, 8845 Pulaski Highway, Baltimore, MD 21237. Pre-registration is $25 per person (includes t-shirt and ride patch). Day of Registration is $30 per person (includes t-shirt only). Fundraise $100 or more and the ride fee is waived, receive an orange ride shirt, patch & ride at the front of the pack!). Please make all checks payable to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Credit Cards accepted for registration over the phone and day of Ride. On-site Registration at Harley-Davidson on Wednesday, April 16 from 6-8 pm and Saturday, April 19 from 12-3 pm. To Register or For More Information: Call Steve Reinker at 410-527-0220 ext. 19 ~ email: [email protected] ~ fax: 410-527-0510.

Apr 24th – 27th

Outer Banks Bike Week™ “Cruzin the Outer Banks” NC

Live Music on 3 stages, over 100 Vendors (free admission), 3 Bikini Contests, Bike Show & Bike Games, Scavenger Hunt, Poker Run, Hog Chapter Challenge (Win Lunch on the Beach!), Special Tattoo Art Show & Contest, Rally Puzzle Pin, Chowder Cook- Off, Special Party Hosts Every Night, & Special Guests-TBA. Come for the fun…come for the fantastic riding! Over 100 miles of scenic beaches, lighthouses, ferries, pirate lore, fishing, Wright Brothers Memorial. Benefits: The Corolla Wild Horse Fund & MDA (Muscular Dystrophy Association) www.outerbanksbikeweek.com 757 397-5550 or [email protected] for more information (including vendors & sponsors)

Apr 25th – 27th

7th Annual Outer Banks Bike Rally – Grandy, NC Proceeds go to our Wounded Warriors and their Families. Location Dennis Anderson’s “Digger Dungeon” and Barry’s Walnut Island, located in Grandy, NC. LIVE! JB Walker Cheap Wiskey Band. 1st Annual Pirates Biker Ball. Camping, Vendors, Live Music, Trophies & Prizes on all Events, Bike Show – Sportster, Dyna, Softail, Dresser, Metric, Chopper, Metric, Radical; Bike Rodeo; Burn Out 1st Prize $500; Poker Run 1st Prize $500. BIKINI RIDE CONTEST, POKER RUN, WEENIE BITE, KEG ROLL, WAITRESS CARRY, PLUNGER & GO, SLOW RIDE, BALLOON TOSS, BURN OUT. WWW.OUTERBANKSBIKERALLY.COM

April 25th – 27th Thunder In The Smoky’s Spring Rally - Maggie Valley NC www.handlebarcorral.com

April 25th – 27th Premier Bike & Car Event - Salisbury, NC To benefit CUD Foundation www.rallyattheriver.com

April 25th – 27th Cherokee Survivors Motorcycle Rally & Concert – Cherokee, NC www.cherokeerally.com

Apr 26th 4th Annual CPL. Jonathan W. Bowling USMC Memorial Bike Ride & Bike Show - Stuart, VA Jonathan Bowling was a Corporal in the USMC who paid the ultimate price fighting for freedom in Iraq. He was also a fellow Firefighter with the Fairystone Vol. Fire Dept. and a Police Officer for the City Of Martinsville, as well as a fellow bike rider. Please show your support by remembering Jonathan in this ride. Ride sched Apr 26th, Rain date April 27th,2008. Location: Patrick County High School, Stuart Va. Bike Show Registration Starts 10:00am. Cost $10.00 to Display Bike. Ride registration starts 10:00am. Cost Per Bike $10.00 - Vehicles $10.00. Ride Begins at 1:00pm. Proceeds will go to the CPL. Jonathan W. Bowling Memorial Scholarship Fund. Contributions can be made to the CPL. Jonathan W. Bowling Memorial Scholarship Fund, c/o Patrick County Education Foundation, PO Box 497, 105 Stonewall Court, Stuart Va. 24171. We will be stopping by the gravesite for a moment of silence. There will be a Trophy given to farthest traveled bike (Not trailered bike). Red Knights MC Chapter 11, Patrick Springs,Va. For more information contact following: Miranda Nelson (276)629-6188, Corky Hall (276)673-1827, Tim Dodson (276)629-1201, Kim Bowling (336)978-2796

Apr 26th Cruisin Virginia Beach Auto & Motorcycle Supershow - Virginia Beach, VA www.beacheventsfun.com

Apr 27th Cruisin For a Cure - Virginia Beach, VA Registration starts at 9AM. $10 for Rider and $5 for passenger. Fastlane Motorcycle Accessories, 166 S. Rosemont Road, Virginia Beach, VA. 23454, 757-340-4446. First Bike out at 9:30. Last Bike out at 11:00. Sponsored by the Southern Cruisers Riding Club. Contact David White, 757-575-8508, [email protected].

Apr 27th Culpeper Chapter of ABATE of VA HORSESHOE TOURNAMENT – Culpeper, VA Registration begins at 11:00 am. First pitch at 12:30pm. Come join us at The CULPEPER AMERICAN LEGION, 14222 Rixeyville Road, Culpeper, VA. $10, Partners are luck of the draw, double elimination. Singles and Pick Your Own Partner competition after. PRIZES! 50/50! TROPHIES! Food and Beverages will be available for purchase courtesy of The SONS OF THE AMERICAN LEGION. For more info call Sharon at 540- 937-3924

Apr 27th Biker Sunday 2008 – Dublin, VA 10:45 AM at the River of Life church 5311 Black Hollow Road, Dublin, Virginia, 24084. Special guest speaker “Bubba” a biker that rode for years in California. His testimony is from “Pond Scum to the Glory of the Lord”. Scenic Ride After Service, Bike Blessing, Cook-Out, and Bike Games. Come as you are, everyone is welcome. “ BURN RUBBER not YOUR SOUL”. website about event: www.bikersforchristNRV.com/newsandevents.html. Sponsored by The River of Life Church and Bikers For Christ New River Valley Chapter. Directions: Rt. 100 Dublin, Va between New River Community College and Dublin Fairground, just 4 miles from I-81. Contacts Eddie Wright 540-639-4209 or email [email protected] or [email protected]. Website www.bikersforchristNRV.com

MAY 2008

May 1-31 NATIONAL MOTORCYCLE AWARENESS MONTH

May 1st – 4th Thunder Beach Rally, Panama City, FL www.thunderbeachproductions.com

May 2nd – 4th 11th Annual Virginia Beach Bike Classic – Virginia Beach, VA www.vabeachbikeclassic.com

May 3rd - Poker Run to benefit Special Olympics - Chesapeake/Virginia Beach, VA Sponsored by Boozefighters Prospect Suffolk Chapter 38 and Boneshakers Saloon. For more info visit tamaevents.com or bikerenews.com

May 3rd Hoots & Scoots Dice Run to benefit Breast Cancer Research – Woodbridge, VA Visit all the Northern VA Hooters locations-Fairfax , Manassas , Fredericksburg , & Potomac Mills. (about 120 miles in about 2.5 hours). $10/Rider, $5/Passenger – proceeds donated to the Kelly Jo Dowd Fund at the V Foundation for Cancer Research. Prize $$, in multiple categories, winners announced during lunch at Woodbridge Hooters. Registration 10-11am, first bike out at 10:45 from Renegade Classics Motorcycle Clothing & Accessories Outlet Store: 14575 Jefferson Davis Hwy; Featherstone Square; Woodbridge, VA; 703-499-9533; www.nova.RCOSva.com

May 3rd ROC Bikefest - Richmond, VA www.richmondoutreachcenter.com

May 4th “March of Dimes” Benefit Ride - Weyers Cave, VA Sponsored by Tre’s Tribe (family team) and Railside Enterprises, Inc. Sunday May 4th, 2008. Rain date: May 18th, 2008. Where: 73 Railside Drive, Weyers Cave VA., Registration begins at 9 am. First bike out at 10 am - Last bike in by 2 pm. $10 Rider/$10 Passenger. Door Prizes, Games and Raffles. Food Available before and after run. Proceeds to be donated to the March of Dimes. All bikes welcome. For additional information, contact Diann Trammell/Cathy Edwards at 540-289-3329. THE POWER IS IN YOUR HANDS, RIDE TO SAVE BABIES!!

May 5th Cinco De Mayo

May 8th – 11th National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM) Convention - Houston, TX The 2008 NCOM Convention is being held in Houston, Texas, at George Bush International Airport, at the Sheraton North Houston Hotel, 15700 JFK Blvd, Houston, Texas 77032. The reservation phone is: (281) 442-5100 and ask for the NCOM rate.

May 9th – 18th Myrtle Beach Bike Week – Myrtle Beach, SC

May 10th CHICKS RULE DEMO DAY AND BIKE SHOW ALONG WITH MOTHERS DAY SPECIALS – Danville, VA Rain date May 17th. Thunder Road Harley-Davidson, 4960 Riverside Dr., Danville, VA (434) 822-BIKE www.thunderroadhd.com

May 11th Happy Mother’s Day to all the ladies – Mom’s are the best!

May 17th Armed Forces Day – Support Our Troops!

May 17th Classic Car Ministry’s 4th Annual Car, Truck and Bike Show – Richmond, VA On the grounds of Faith Landmarks Ministries 8491 Chamberlayne Rd. Richmond, VA. Gates open @ 7:30 a.m. Judging begins @ 12:00 noon. We are inviting all food vendors, craftsmen, artists, and businesses to purchase event space. Registration is $15 per vehicle and vendor space is $20 for 1 space or $30 for 2 spaces. 100% of the proceeds will be used to further the outreach programs of Faith Landmarks Ministries. Bring your family and friends out for a wonderful time. For more info contact Eddie Hinton @ 804-550-3203 or [email protected]

May 17th 8th Annual Car and Motorcycle Show – Goochland, VA At Goochland Fairgrounds 2728 Fairgrounds Road Goochland, VA 23063. Sponsored by 614 Hunt Club. Open to all makes and models. Time 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Registration $20.00 Many classes. 1st, 2nd, 3rd place trophies in each class. Dash Plaque and goodie bags to first 100 entries. Awards 3:00 p.m.. Vendor space available. Music and food available. Astro Jump for kids. For information and registration contact Charles Shelton 804-512-5477 or Email [email protected]

May 17th Ride for Hope – to Surry, VA It will take place on May 17th, and will begin from several points in the area. On the Southside the ride will begin at (#1) Bayside Harley Davidson....they will ride to Suffolk down Rt. 10 to (#2) Tidewater Motorcycle. The Peninsula area will begin at (#3) Hampton Roads Harley Davidson. The Richmond...West Area will start at (#4) Colonial Harley Davidson, in colonial Hgts. All four starting points will ride to the (DESTINATION) Surry Recreation Park, in Surry Virginia located on Rt. 10 (West). There will be free food/drinks and fun for all riders. The cost is $20.00 per bike, all proceeds will be used for mission work. Contact Moses (757) 357-0643, email [email protected] or F. Ellis (757) 754-5733 email [email protected]

May 18th Spring Children’s Burn Camp Charity Ride – Harrisonburg Leaving from Applebee’s Harrisonburg Va

May 18th 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 May 25th.

May 24th Suffolk Raceway Reunion – Suffolk, VA Pre-79 vehicles in show except for drag cars and bikes. Controlled burnouts, rap off, flame throwers, drive-in movies, slow drags and more. Info www.suffolkracewayreunion.com

May 24th & 25th Rolling Thunder XXI Official Reunion Spot - Ft Washington, MD Harley-Davidson of Washington will be holding the

“Official Reunion Spot” for Rolling Thunder XXI again this year! Come out to the dealership on Saturday, May 24th for free food, vendors, entertainment, t-shirts on sale, the Rolling Thunders Officials and a great time to catch up with old friends from 10 am to 4 pm. Come back on Sunday, May 25th to join us for free coffee and doughnuts at 8 am. The escorted police ride will be leaving around 9 am en route to the Pentagon Parking Lot. Contact Tammy McClanahan, 301-274-5080, [email protected]. www.hdwash.com. 9407 Livingston Rd., Ft Washington, MD 20744. Promoter HDW, Ltd. Marketing Department

May 25th Rolling Thunder XXI – Washington, DC

May 26th Memorial Day – A day to remember the men & women who gave their lives to serve. We salute you!

May 29th – 31st Chesapeake Bay Police Rodeo & Skills Competition - Portsmouth, VA Benefits the March of Dimes. Donations accepted. Open To The Public. Police Motorcycle Officers from the Mid-Atlantic States will compete in precision riding events. Practice Days: May 29th & 30th, 2008. Competition Day: May 31st at 8:00 AM. From I-264 take Greenwood Drive north bound. Turn left at traffic light and follow signs at Greenwood Dr. & Garwood Avenue. Signs posted will lead you into the CBPR Training Site

May 31st 3rd Annual “Diva’s Only” Bike Show,- Chesapeake, VA Okay Ladies, its time to knock the dust off those gorgeous bikes and get them ready for the 3rd Annual “Diva’s Only” Bike Show...and what a show its gonna be! Special guests this year are Donnie Smith, Hank Young and Brian Klock. Guest judges are Dawn Williams and Laura Klock. Show will be held at the Chesapeake Conference Center in Chesapeake, VA. Bike classes include Customs, Sportster, Foreign Sport Bike, Foreign Cruiser, Chopper, Trike and Stock Harley-Davidson. For more information about the show or are interested in sponsorship, please call us at 757-428-3482 or Jodie Woodward at 757-222-2355. www.divacustoms.com

May 31st Mike Stull’s 6th Annual GOOD SAMARITAN POKER RUN & “KEEP IT REAL” MEMORIAL RIDE 3 – Covington, VA In memory of Tammy Teichelman of Covington and Ernie “MAD DOG” Armentrout of Potts Creek. Proceeds go to Kenny Southern of Bennettown Rd. Covington, VA. Hosted by Kountry Korners Store, 5409 Potts Creek Rd., Covington, VA, (540)747-4001. Registration starts at 11am. All bikes out at 12. Door prizes given 30 min. after bikes return. Bike lift to be given away. Cash prizes for best & Worst hands. Everyone welcome. All bikes and autos welcome. Overnite Social/Camp Out after ride. Tents, vehicles, campers welcome. NO COLORS. BYOB

May 31st C&C Cycle 15th Annual Open House- Severn, MD www.candccycle.com

JUNE 2008

Jun 2nd – 7th Americade 2008 & Motorcycle Tradeshow - Lake George, NY World’s Largest Touring Rally www.tourexpo.com

Jun 6th & 7th Bladze of Thunder Motorcycle Event – Pearisburg, VA Pearisburg Fire Department is hosting our 5th annual Blaze of Thunder Motorcycle Event. There will be two big days of Bikes, Food, Vendors, Contests, Biker Rodeo, a Poker Run, Motorcycle raffle, Bands and much more. Things will get started on Friday June 6th at 12:00pm, Vendors can setup at 9:00am. The day will end at 11:00pm after the bands finish. Saturday June 7th things get started with Breakfast at 9:00am and get bigger an better from there. The Poker Run will start at 12:00pm on Saturday. The Event will end with bands at 11:00pm. The event will be located at 1410 Wenonah Ave. Pearisburg, Va. 24134, at The Pearisburg Community Center. Event admission armband $3.00 / Poker Hand $10.00. 1410 Wenonah Ave., Pearisburg, VA. 24134. Contact Richard Stump, 540-599-3951, [email protected], 540-626-7213, bladzeofthundermotorcycleevents.com

Jun 6th - 8th The 6th Annual Richmond Tattoo Arts Festival – Richmond, VA Presented by B.I.R.D. Ltd and Capital Tattoo. Featuring World renown Artists Contests/Vendors/Magazine Coverage. Held at the Holiday Inn Select Koger Center 10800 Midlothian Turnpike, Richmond, Va. 23225 (804)379-3800. For more info call Capital Tattoo (804) 440-4255

Jun 7th Boogie Woogie Bugle Annual Party – Luray, VA Sponsored by Outlanders , Luray VA to salute all the soldiers who have served. 12:00 – 5:00PM. See Tribute bikes, USO Performers, The Bikini Dream Team, military vehicles and more. Attendance 10,000+ www.outlanders.

Jun 7th 2nd Annual “Veterans Challenge” Poker Run/Road Rally – Virginia Beach, VA Begins & ends at GEICO Motorcycle Service Center in Virginia Beach. Please pre-register at www.UnitedVeteransAlliance.com. Motorcycle & Car Show * Cook-Out * Various Vendors * Awards * Raffle Drawings * Fun For Everyone * GEICO Vehicles * Event Pins & Shirts for first 150 pre-registered. Call Fred Slatter at (757) 235-3733 or unitedveteransalliance.com

Jun 7th Annual Motorcycle Rally and Car Show - Chesterfield, VA Show your support for Special Olympics Virginia! Chesterfield County Fairgrounds, 9 a.m. on site registration. Car show- Live Band- Moonwalk- Clowns, Face Painting & Much More! Pre-registration - Mark

Pinney at 804-748-1992 or Captain David Hutton -804 751-4419. Ride Starts at 11 a.m. $25.00 fee includes ride in parade, lunch, rally pin, door prize tickets and entertainment.

Jun 7th Feed Your Soul – Ride for the Hungry Charity Run – Virginia Beach, VA Sponsored by the Widows Sons – Knights of Solomon. The event will be held on June 7th, 2008 and begins at 9:30 a.m. at Knuckleheads Roadhouse located at 401 North Witchduck Road in the city of Virginia Beach, VA 23462. All proceeds from this event will go to support the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia. At this year’s event, with the help of our ride participants, we hope to generate thousands of dollars to donate to this notable cause. There will be live entertainment, bike show and 50/50. Bike show registration starts 12:00 to 3:00 p.m. Awards will be at 4:00 p.m. following the auction benefiting the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia. Fees are $15.00 for ride participants and $5.00 per extra poker hand. Contact Ed at [email protected] for corporate sponsor forms.

Jun 7th 6th Annual RDMC/Elks Hospice Fundraiser - Prince Frederick, MD From 2 p.m. to whenever. $10 donation includes: entry in Ride-In Bike Show, swap meet, access to vendors, beer wagon, food, Las Vegas Casino Night, live band, craft fair and bake sale. All proceeds benefit Hospice. Please join us for this worthy cause! Dares Beach Road, Prince Frederick, MD 20678. Presented by Road Dogs of So.. Md./Prince Frederick Elks Lodge. Contact Kimba, 443-404-1017, [email protected]

Jun 14th Flag Day – Fly those colors proudly!

Jun 14th 2ND ANNIVERSARY PARTY ALONG WITH FATHERS DAY DEMOS/SPECIALS INSIDE THE STORE – Danville, VA Thunder Road Harley-Davidson, 4960 Riverside Dr., Danville, VA (434) 822-BIKE www.thunderroadhd.com

June 14th 4th Annual Rallyin the Valley - Staunton, VA www.shenandoahhd.com

Jun 14th – 22nd Laconia Bike Week – Laconia, NH

June 14th Waugh HD Big Damn Bike Show - Orange, VA www.waughhd.com

June 14th 3rd Annual New Covenant Church Car Show – Hampton, VA 1079 Big Bethel Rd Hampton, Va. 23666 ( next to Bethel High School). Top 25- Top 10 Themed Cars, Trucks or Bike- Best Car, Bike, Truck and Best in Show. Registration opens at 9:00 - Show 10:00 to 3:00 Dash Plaque and goodie bags to first 100 entries. Contact: Spencer & Betty 757-766-3510 or Email: [email protected]

Jun 14th 2nd Annual Bike Show @ Murphy’s II – Midlothian, VA Sponsored by Outkasst Cycle. Live entertainment & Bikini Bike Wash( Lots of prizes). 11:00-4:00 13995 Raised Antler Circle Midlothian Va 23112. For more info call Outkasst Cycles (804) 744-7848.

Jun 14th & 15th Carroll County Bike Fest – Westminster, MD At the Carroll County AG Center in Westminster, MD. Custom, Antique, Stock motorcycles of all makes models and years on display. Adults $7, children under 12 FREE. Sat, Jun 14th 10am - 7pm. Sun, Jun 15th 10am – 5pm. For vendor, sponsor or entry information www.ccbikefest.com. Maryland’s next big bike show!

Jun 15th Father’s Day – Let’s Ride Big daddies!

Jun 17th – 21st Honda Hoot – Knoxville, TN

Jun 19th – 20th VA State HOG Rally – Fredericksburg, VA

Jun 20th – 21st Mid Atlantic Women’s Motorcycle Rally - Gettysburg, PA www.mawmr.org

Jun 20th – 22nd 9th Annual Smoke Out - Farmington NC Dragway www.smokeoutrally.com

Jun 22nd 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 June 29th.

Jun 22nd Bike Night at the Ballfield: Prince William County Stadium; Ride-in Bike show Sign-up starts at 3:30, Judging at 4:45, Bike Parade at 5:30. Show Classes: Cruiser, Custom & Sport, and Best of Show also gets first pitch. Reduced price First baseline seats {Game starts at 6:05}. Meet some minor league players and the Renegade Girls. 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

June 22nd 2nd Annual Maryland American Bike Fest, - Mechanicsville, MD Maryland International Raceway, Mechanicsville, MD www.mirdrag.com

Jun 25th – 28th North Carolina State HOG Rally – Salisbury, NC

Jun 26th – 29th Thunder in the Valley – Johnstown, PA

June 27th – 29th 3rd Annual Iron Titans Rally - Tazewell, VA ATV Rodeo. Ms. Iron Titans Pageant. Bike Show. Bike Games. Poker Run. Vendors. Food & Beverage. Tattoo Artists, Tent & R.V. Camping. Gates open Friday at 4:00p.m(6/27)$10.00 a person,$15.00 all weekend. Live Band and Much More...All Welcome. Proceeds go to The Shriner’s Hospital for Children. Tazewell Co. Fair Grounds, 24630. Contact Biker Bill, 276-988-6438, [email protected] or Jodi Matas, 276-202-6607, [email protected]. www.irontitans.com

Jun 28th 3rd Annual Summer Splash Poker Run – Berlin, MD Presented by Eastern Shore Chapter HOG at Harley-Davidson of Ocean City, 10716 Ocean Gateway, Berlin, MD. Registration 10am-noon. $10.00 per person, free pin

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE � THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE �

to first 300 entrants. Proceeds benefit Chapter and local charities. Enjoy scenic ride, music, bike games, food and door prizes. Cash prize for best hand. Escorted rides available. Rain or shine. No alcohol please. All bikes welcome. For info. call Jeff 410-713-8940 or email [email protected]. www.easternshorehog.com

Jun 28th – 29th Virginia Bike Fest – Petersburg, VA www.virginiamotorsportspk.com

Jun 29th Fastlane Biker Gear Anniversary Party, Bike Show & Vets House Benefit -Va Beach VA Sunday June 29th 12.00 noon to 5pm. 166 S. Rosemont Rd. Va. Beach. Live Music, Bar-B-Q & Beverages (Cold Ones!) Door Prizes, 50/50. Dyno on site! Run your bike, check your HP. Bike Registration 12 to 3pm. Six Classes with Trophies for 1st & 2nd place. Grand Prize for Best In Show! Scheduled escorted ride. All Proceeds Benefit The Vets House. Come out for the best local party of the summer and support a good cause! For more Info & sponsorship call 340-4446.

JULY 2008

July 4th

Independence Day – Happy 232nd Birthday America!

July 4th – 6th 3rd Annual Shenandoah Valley Trike In - Harrisonburg, VA Rockingham County Fair Grounds www.vabtw.org

July 12th

St Jude’s Poker Run – Hampton, VA Poker run to benefit St Jude’s Children’s Hospital, 427 Durham St 23669. Ends with a party at Damon’s in Gloucester. Details will be added when they become available. Contact Cari, 757-851-8016, [email protected]

July 16th – 20th

West Virginia State HOG Rally – Canaan Valley, WV

July 16th

Ride To Work Day – Every City in the U.S.

July 16th – 20th Snow Shoe Freedom Fest - Snow Shoe, WVwww.snowshoefreedomfest.com

July 19th DAV TOUR BUS ALONG WITH THUNDER ROAD OPEN HOUSE AND BIKE SHOW – Danville, VA Thunder Road Harley-Davidson, 4960 Riverside Dr., Danville, VA (434) 822-BIKE www.thunderroadhd.com July 19th Adult Beach Party: Bikini Bike Wash, Bikini Contest – Woodbridge, VA (prizes: $300, $150, $75) @ 2pm, Wet-T Contest (prizes: $400, $200, $100) @ 3:30, skills contests’; Live Band, Food. No one leaves without a smile on their face – Meeting the Renegade Girls ensures that. 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

July 20th 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 July 27th.

July 24th – 27th 3rd Annual Wild and Wonderful MountainFest Motorcycle Rally - Morgantown, WV www.wvmountainfest.com

July 25th – 27th Carlisle Bike Fest – Carlisle, PA

July 26th 2nd Annual Back To School Bash Car, Truck & Bike Show – Hampton, VA Saturday, July 26th, from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. at the West Hampton Baptist Church in Hampton, VA. Rain Date is Saturday, August 9th. Awards will be given to the top 2 in each of the 16 classes, as well as 9 additional “special” awards. There will be food, live music, a space walk for the kids, and dash plaques and “goody bags” for the first 50 registered entrants. More information Web Site: www.hr-mopar.info or Email: [email protected]

July 26th 5th Annual Joseph “Jazz” McCain, Hampton Roads Kidney Foundation Run – Norfolk, VA Presented by the Flaming Knights MC and D&D Cycles. @Northside Park Pavilion #2 Norfolk, Va. $10.00 per rider $1 raffle Tickets (all proceeds go to the Hampton Roads Kidney Foundation). Schedule of events: 9am registration for the ride and Dyno Performance Shootout at D&D Cycles, 1038 W. Little Creek Rd, Norfolk, Va., 23505. 12pm ride begins @ D&D and ends at Northside Park. 1pm Cookout, Raffle of event prizes, (most represented MC Trophy) 8pm Cookout ends. Any Questions Contact Larry “Sailor” Gilbreath 757-485-1878 or 757-292-9945.

July 31st – Aug 2nd DE/MD State HOG Rally – Hunt Valley, MD

AUGUST 2008

Aug 2nd 2nd Annual back to school car, p/u truck and bike show – Hampton, VA Sponsored by the Charles City Hot Rod Association to donate supplies to the needy school children in the surrounding areas. Place of show the Great Big Flea Market 3302 Williamsburg Road, Richmond Va. 23231. Registration begins at 8:00am to 11:00am. Judging begins at 12:00. Awards and trophies given in all classes, all makes and models are welcome. Classes for old school cars. Registration fee is $15.00 in advance and $20.00 at the day of show. Music and food. Space rental for vendors are welcome (T-shirts, caps etc.) For more information contact George 804-305-3397, Tiny

804-737-6071, Art 804-437-1495 and Sonny cell 804-301-2039, home 804-829-2976, email [email protected]

Aug 4th – 10th Sturgis Bike Rally – Sturgis, SD

Aug 6th – 10th EAST COAST STURGIS MC RALLY 5th - Little Orleans MD This is the event that’s taking the country by storm! All the reasons are right. Mountains, Open Country, Good People, Clean Air and the Freedom of the road! Let the Party Begin. For years Motorcyclist have been having to travel half way across the Country to Rally with new folks and hook up with old friends. Now meet em’ on Apple Mountain at the EAST COAST STURGIS MOTORCYCLE RALLY ! Contact: Ken Appel (301) 478-3421. [email protected]. www.eastcoaststurgis.com

Aug 9th 105TH ANNIVERSARY PARTY WITH SPECIALS THROUGHOUT THE STORE – Danville, VA Thunder Road Harley-Davidson, 4960 Riverside Dr., Danville, VA (434) 822-BIKE www.thunderroadhd.com

Aug 10th 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 Aug 17th.

Aug 10th Mid-Atlantic Bike and Car Show - Waldorf MD Bring your custom American/Import6 Bike, Car, Truck, Muscle Car & Hotrod to our 56th Annual show in Southern, Maryland. Lot’s of hot food, cool drinks, 5 star entertainment and the hottest customs in the Region. Each year we find more and more superstars that compete for one of 75 trophies. As always to event is free to the public. Rain Date is August 17th. Sponsored by Dirty Dealer & Sheehy Nissan Mitsubishi. 240-299-5147 or 301-843-5300. www.fireupthundrout.com. [email protected]

Aug 13th – 16th The Virginia Rally – Danville, VA Riding Curvy, Hilly, Scenic Roads * AMA SUPERBIKE Motorcycle Racing * Meeting Other Riders - THAT’S WHAT THE VIRGINIA RALLY IS ALL ABOUT!!!www.thevirginiarally.com

Aug 14th – 16th 8th Annual America’s 9/11 Ride www.americas911ride.org

Aug 16th & 17th 2nd Annual Boozefighters Poker Run & Bike Show - Suffolk, VA To benefit the Genieve Shelter for Battered Women. Randzz Pub, Highway 58, Suffolk, VA. LIVE MUSIC, Great Food, approximately 20 Vendors, TOP SHELF Door Prizes, and a SEXY POLE DANCE CONTEST with a $250 First Prize CASH payout! There will be much more to follow so watch the calendar for the details.

Aug 17th Rally for RAACE 3rd Annual – Bel Air, MD The Rally for RAACE is a police escorted charity motorcycle ride, benefiting The RAACE Foundation. By participating in the Rally for RAACE, you are helping The RAACE Foundation create awareness about the devastating issues of child sexual abuse. Only when the problem of child sexual abuse is faced openly can we hope to protect our children. Doug Keim & Creative Cycles joins the Rally for RAACE as official spokesperson to help in the fight to prevent child sexual abuse. Start: Jones Junction - Bel Air, Maryland 9:00 a.m. registration 12:00 p.m. start Music & Entertainment by “Sir Psycho” Food, Drinks, vendors End: Chesapeake Harley-Davidson - Darlington, MD 2:00 p.m. Post Party Music & Entertainment by “Surreal” Food, Drinks, vendors Fees: $30 pp includes commemorative t-shirt & pin. (children 12 & under are free) The Route: The Harford County Sheriff’s Office has completed the route for our ride. They will also be escorting us. It is a 43-mile ride which will take motorcyclists on a beautifully scenic tour through Harford County. Sponsored by The RAACE Foundation. Contact is Vickie Brooks. Phone: 410-893-1001, Fax: 410-893-1002. [email protected]. www.raace.org

Aug 29th – Sept 1st Million Motorcyclist Motorcade - La Plata MD 50 acres of Vendors, bands, games, camping onsite (no hookups), non-stop entertainment over the entire Labor Day Weekend, at the Charles County Fairgrounds. Sunday morning MLK police escorted parade to downtown DC. Everyone is invited and tax deductible donations accepted at the gate for the MLK Memorial. Sponsored by M5 Project. Contact: Dirty Dealer. 301-893-2900. [email protected]

Aug 29th – 31st Heroes Forever Veterans Ride – Portsmouth, VA Heroes forever veterans roundup ride 2nd annual $$$$$ in door prizes guest speakers, bikini contest bike show, food, vendors call for vendor spaces available, live music, blowout sales, 757-967-8268. Sponsor: Route17. Contact: Loredana Henderson/ Michael Barnett. [email protected].

Aug 30th – 31st 1st Annual Labor Day Bash-Dirt Drags @ Slades Park – Surry, VA 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!!! Sat & Sun., Aug 30th & 31st - Saturday: 4 Wheelers only. Sunday: 2 Wheelers only. Double Loss-Double Purse All weekend! For info call Joe Brookman (804) 221-3959 or Donnie Cooper (804) 796-3836.

SEPTEMBER 2008

Sept 1st Labor Day

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

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

Sept 11th – 14th DelMarVa Bike Week – Ocean City, MD

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 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 – 21st S&S Jim McClure Nationals – Petersburg, VA Motorsports Park www.ahdra.com

Sept 21st Baltimore/Washington DC Ride for Kids - to benefit Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation, police escorted www.pbtfus.org

OCTOBER 2008

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 11th Renegade Classics – Woodbridge’s Anniversary Party - Woodbridge, VA Food, 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 16th – 19th Biketoberfest – Daytona Beach, FL

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.

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?

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE � THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE �

Proud To Be An AmericanThe average age of the military man is 19 years. He is a short haired, tight-

muscled kid who, under normal circumstances is considered by society as half man, half boy. Not yet dry behind the ears, not old enough to buy a beer, but old enough to die for his country. He never really cared much for work and he would rather wax his own car than wash his father’s, but he has never collected unemployment either.

He’s a recent High School graduate; he was probably an average student, pursued some form of sport activities, drives a ten year old jalopy, and has a steady girlfriend that either broke up with him when he left, or swears to be waiting when he returns from half a world away. He listens to rock and roll or hip-hop or rap or jazz or swing and a 155mm howitzer.

He is 10 or 15 pounds lighter now than when he was at home because he is working or fighting from before dawn to well after dusk. He has trouble spelling, thus letter writing is a pain for him, but he can field strip a rifle in 30 seconds and reassemble it in less time in the dark. He can recite to you the nomenclature of a machine gun or grenade launcher and use either one ef-fectively if he must.

He digs foxholes and latrines and can apply first aid like a professional. He can march until he is told to stop, or stop until he is told to march. He obeys orders instantly and without hesitation, but he is not without spirit or individual dignity. He is self-sufficient. He has two sets of fatigues: he washes one and wears the other. He keeps his canteens full and his feet dry. He sometimes forgets to brush his teeth, but never to clean his rifle. He can cook his own meals, mend his own clothes, and fix his own hurts.

If you’re thirsty, he’ll share his water with you; if you are hungry, his food. He’ll even split his ammunition with you in the midst of battle when you run low. He has learned to use his hands like weapons and weapons like they were his hands. He can save your life - or take it, because that is his job. He will often do twice the work of a civilian, draw half the pay, and still find ironic humor in it all. He has seen more suffering and death than he should have in his short lifetime.

He has wept in public and in private, for friends who have fallen in com-bat and is unashamed. He feels every note of the National Anthem vibrate through his body while at rigid attention, while tempering the burning desire to ‘square-away’ those around him who haven’t bothered to stand, remove their hat, or even stop talking. In an odd twist, day in and day out, far from home, he defends their right to be disrespectful.

Just as did his Father, Grandfather, and Great-grandfather, he is paying the price for our freedom. Beardless or not, he is not a boy. He is the American Fighting Man that has kept this country free for over 200 years.

He has asked nothing in return, except our friendship and understanding. Remember him, always, for he has earned our respect and admiration with

his blood. And now we even have women over there in danger, doing their part in this

tradition of going to War when our nation calls us to do so. As you go to bed tonight, remember this shot

A short lull, a little shade and a picture of loved ones in their helmets. Please stop for a moment and say a prayer for our ground troops in Afghani-stan , sailors on ships, and airmen in the air, and for those in Iraq. Let’s help protect them as they protect us.

Wreaths Across America Day in Richmond, VA!On Monday the 26th of February, the City of Richmond’s City Council voted and passed a proclamation making the second Saturday

of December Wreaths Across America Day. Many thanks to Rev. R.J. (Rocky) Angone Jr. and Sam Tinsley for all their hard work, both with the City and at Richmond National Cemetery. Rev. Rocky also reports that the same draft proc-lamation is being prepared for Governor Kaine so that the State of Virginia can officially endorse the Wreaths Across America events that honor veterans and their sacrifices. Incidentally, Virginia has 22 participating locations, the largest number of any state. Sam and Rev. Rocky are gearing up with plans to see 5,000 wreaths placed at Richmond National in December, so any supporters interested in getting involved can find contact information at Wreaths Across America.org

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE �

Hot Plate

Support Our TroopsBiker Pals - Bella

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 10 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 11

Aaron JohnsonFull time �th grade school teacher (seriously), 9 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.

TECH TIPS

Let’s slow things down a bit….On the heels of last month’s article, I got some feedback from riders who admittedly neglect their braking system and have now vowed to change their evil ways. This revela-tion on their parts has led me to touch on the subject of upgrades of the braking nature. We all customize our bikes in ways that reflect our personas and with that, many of us strive to build faster, louder bikes…some that cover count-less miles of highway, some that lay fire and rubber down a drag strip and others that handle curves like Hugh Heffner at a pajama party. No matter which one you prefer, the uni-versally neglected area of all of these bikes is the braking system and there are many ways to improve on them.Many in the sport bike and custom cruiser market, be it metric or American, are familiar with stainless steel braided lines. Braided brake lines were originally designed for the road race set. Standard rubber brake lines worked fine on street bikes, but on racing machines of the 70’s when rotor and pad temperatures began rising to the point of a nuclear reaction and turning brake fluid to a molten hot mess, rubber began to soften up with the hotter fluid, resulting in bulging of the brake line under pressure and severely diminished brake performance. The braided lines remedied the problem of brake lines swelling and gave a solid feel to the brakes no matter what the temperature….and the

bonus…they look so cool!!!Today, braided steel brake lines are not only for the incred-ibly fast race bikes, their benefits have been noticed by

others and are available for all bikes now. Braided lines give you a much more firm and solid feel to your brakes and enhance the stopping ability of even the best factory brake set up. Couple this with a set of pads that suit your riding style (organic, sintered, semi-metallic…etc, more on that later) and you will have the ultimate in braking performance for your ride. The confidence that excellent brakes bring to the riding experience is second to none…we can all have bikes that accelerate hard, but can we all say that our bikes stop on a dime? In the real world, where most of us ride, the importance of our brakes far outweighs the importance of quick acceleration. Don’t get me wrong, I love to take off out of the hole as hard as anyone, but when the mini van showing the latest in children’s videos pulls out in front of you, what’s more important?The bottom line is this…with manufacturers like Goodridge, Galfer, Braking, and EBC making it so easy and now less expensive than ever to upgrade our braking systems, there’s really no excuse not to look into it. Besides, we all need to change our brake fluid and there’s no better time to do it than when changing lines. Any parts guy worth his salt at your favorite shop will be able to get you everything you need… (Don’t forget the new washers!!!)

“knees in the breeze, Aaron”


Pinstriping Comeback Clearly the finishing touch for any carefully thought out and constructed vehicular project is the subtle painted filigrees and thin stripes that command the eye as the be-holder begins to really look. Have you ever wondered where those fanciful designs came from? Vehicular décor began with the chariots of the affluent, thousands of years ago with Gold leaf scrolls and thin accent stripes that implied qual-ity and would persuade appreciation from the viewer. The circus in the 1800’s had extensive hand carved and gilded scrolls on their wagons, again to impress the viewer and establish the investment made in the caliber of the show. This decorative art genre accompanied mankind and developed through the ages as quality carriage decoration and wagon striping became the benchmarks of carefully engineered and accurately constructed vehicles. Precise stripes could only flow over wooden joints that were tight and carefully crafted wrought iron components were com-plimented with accent designs. Great pride was attached to the decoration that was part of the process of these proud craftsmen. In a recently unearthed letter to a customer, re-sponding to an attempt to order an undecorated Studebaker wagon, the refusal comes from the manufacturer. “If you want wagons with out stripes you don’t want a Studebaker”. Fire engines have perhaps the most famous reputation for elaborate decorations. Originally “fire companies” were independent, private affairs in competition with one another. The premise was simple. Elaborate decorations associated with a particular fire company implied that their fire fight-ing equipment was superior. Artisans with a background of floral specialties, dimensional and intricate geometric scrollwork, elaborate letter styles and Celtic designs flour-ished during this era. The heyday of gold leaf scrollwork and finessful pinstripes peaked prior to the fire companies becoming municipal affairs. The carriage stripers followed the manufacturing evolu-tion into the horseless era and their accent stripes were included as a finishing touch on many early automobiles that competed for a share of the market. When car design exploded after World War II, so did the personal expres-sion that boomers found in building from a plethora of car parts and decorating in the emerging style, what became known as hot rods. Iconic artists created ratfink monsters; hid faces in fanciful pinline designs and the flame became the preferred artistic statement to suggest power, speed, testosterone and thrills. Throughout the eighties and nineties the genre waned as the computer assisted, yet distracted artist, found a new device with which to produce signs and images. The hand produced lettering and pinline images seemed to fall from grace and the mainstream. A few dedicated artists kept their hand in the delicate world of creating designs with brush and paint. The motorcycle culture, the Hot Rod and classic automobile aficionado kept these elite and finessful brush men busy. Now in a new millennia, custom paint enjoys the limelight with the emergence of the TV reality shows. With roller derby and flying eyeballs making a comeback, the

centuries old art form of pinstriping enjoys a resurgence as, once again, the delicate lines add not only a finessful accent but clearly define the prestige of the owner of the vehicle. The artist that can transform a personal idea into a one of a kind expression continues to provide the means with which the consumer can get the message of quality, pride and entertainment across to the viewer. Although pinstriping is the name for a specific manner of achieving a particularly thin effect with a specific brush, it has grown in understanding to include many other enlightening techniques that find their way on the exteriors of today’s automobiles, motor homes and especially motorcycles. For something new to make your ride distinct, look to the timeless form of the art of pinstriping that continues to entertain and elevate with a one of a kind expression of pride, envy and fun. Dave “Letterfly” KnodererCell 813 505 5539Letterfly.com Travelog.Letterfly.com [email protected]

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!


By: DeAna Borza

One of the great things about workin’ in the motorcycle industry is that if you play your cards right, it’s easy. What with bikes, parties, events, hot guys, etc... You find yourself surrounded by people who also share the passion of the industry. This show had it all there. After taking a year off, the Bikes and Ink Show opened the doors again at the Show Place in Mechanicsville. We can all say by the line of men in blue and the signs before we walked in, safety was on the minds of the promoters. Ha Ha!!! Most people laughed about that part of it and had a great time listening to music by the Dennis Peter’s Band. This 2 day event had a huge attendance and all the vendors said they had great success. Outside, Boss Hoss Cycles of Virginia was set up with many trick trikes and bikes!! Also out front was Ridley with America’s Automatic Mo-torcycles for some peace of mind. As I entered the building, I could hear The BUZZ... of the Tattoo artists from Fuzion Ink Studios in Norfolk ~ Skin Vandals from Wisconsin ~ Journey’s End -Richmond ~ Pete Stobierski- Richmond ~ they were all busy putting on perma-nent impressions! The Tattoo contest was judged by April Benner, Kim Scott & Joe Thurston and they announced the following winners:~ Emily Davis Best Large & Best Female Overall work done by Pete Stobierski - Ashley Heath for her back-piece received best female on Saturday by USA Tattoo~ Sean Evers Most Patriotic by Skin Vandals- Best Black & Grey Paul Yackanicz by Journey’s End and Tom Giambra by Soul Tattoo in NY - Best Small color Ashley Heath by USA, Chris Martin by Journey’s End,Dwayne Bass by Fuzion Ink- Best Male Paul Yackanicz and Scott Sweeney both by Journey’s End- Most Unusual Chris Burke by Ancient Art Tattoo.The bikes here were unique and eye catching to say the least. CC Trikes & Custom Bikes set up with one of my favs being a sleek style like No other with Corvette tires and wheels, custom split gas tank,170 cu motor, blower and sweet paint. Gangster Choppers had Blood Money a 1978 HD FLH. Outkasst Cycles had his new bike there as well a beauty 2006 West Coast Chopper. I could go on and on, but let me get onto the results of the show:Full Custom Sportster~ 1st William Day 08 Sportster, 2nd Owan Butler 92 Sportster ~ Trikes&Sidecars 1st Julian Taylor 77FXE ~ Asian Custom 1st George Cole 03 Suzuki, 2nd Jason Lewis 07 Yamaha~ Ridgid Custom 1st Tom Giambra 06 west Coast Chopper~ Best Display Tim Wilmoth 1947 Knuckle Head~ Best Parts Owan Butler 08 Sporster~Best paint John Dod-son 78 FLH~ Peoples Choice BEST of Show was Gary Evans 2008 Pro Street~Judges Choice BEST of Show was George Cole 2003 Suzuki.Cycle Pro came back with passion for bikes & Tat’s and have so many plans for next years show - www.cycleprousa.com. We’ll definitely be there – Re-member, Where There’s Bikes...There’s Going To Be Thunder.

Bikes & Ink ~ a Permanent Impression “ Cycle Promotions USA” March 1�th-1�th,200� - Richmond Va

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 1� THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 19

Hey Yall, This is Morgan Wulfgar and this is my newest bike. I started building this bike in June 2006 and it took me about a year to finish it, holding down a regu-lar type job and only to be able to work on it Sunday’s and the occasional late night. I have been building bikes since I was young working in my father’s shop in San Berdoo, California. Starting with pumped up dirt bikes to Chopper and Bobbers. But this was my first Twin Cam Chopper and my first Softail. It turned out great though and I have been putting a lot of seat time on her. I rode this bike from Richmond to the Black Hills Rally in Sturgis and back and it was a blast. The only hiccup was a handle bar ticket I got in Rapid City and after the huge sum of 20 Dollars was paid, everything else was great. I am currently working on a new bike and it’s going back to the old style of Chops. See ya aroundMorgan - Welsh Boy Cycles

MORGANTwila

My name is Twila and I’m one or the managers at Talons here in Chesterfield Va., one of the local biker friendly bars. I’ve been on bikes all my life and my father rides. I’ve had my license for years but one thing after another kept me from buying one. A year ago, I bought a Honda 450. I called it my Hardley...(hardly a Harley). Seemed to break down more than it was running, so that just pushed me that much harder to find the right Harley for me. About a month or so ago I got a call from my boyfriend JimBob who works at Outkasst Cycles. A friend brought a ’92 - 1200 Sportster up to do some work so he could sell it, and it made it as far as the door. When I saw it he didn’t have to do anything to it...i fell in LOVE! My first road trip on this bike will be Nags Head and the Smokeout...I can’t wait! This girl needs a vacation and what a better way to do it than on two wheels... Keep it between the lines and I will see ya out there this summer!


In Loving Memory of a Daughter and Son in LawOn September 4th, 2006, Erika Jones Nash and her husband, Randy Nash, were flying their small plane home from Roanoke, Virginia to their home in South Carolina. The couple had returned to Virginia to attend a high school reunion. The flight home ended in the tragic loss of both of their lives. Erika and Randy were bikers. Erika’s father, also a fellow biker, was planning to build a bike with his son in law, Randy, once he had completed his garage. But the accident occurred before it was completed. Mike Jones, Erika’s father, decided to do something special to memori-alize the tragic loss in a positive manner. Mike purchased an Arlen Ness chopper in Daytona, Florida in October of 2006. He had it custom painted with a picture of Erika and Randy on the gas tank along with a picture of their white wolf, Shadow. Mike also included pictures of dragons and wizards, which were items that the couple enjoyed collect-ing. The main color of the bike is purple. It was the color of Erika’s first car as well as her favorite color. The license plate has N HEVN. Mike had the gas cap customized by a local jeweler with a pendant of two hearts with the birth stones of both Erika and Randy set in it. Inside the hearts is one of the diamonds that Erika wore when she and Randy were married. This bike is a true labor of love, of not only a loving father, but a fellow biker. Mike Jones is definitely a one of a kind special man.

Mike Jones and his wife provided the information for the article. It was written by Tamara Hamilton and pictures were provided by her husband, Ricky Byers, both from Roanoke, Virginia and they are also fellow bikers. From Tamara and Ricky: “We both feel it is an honor to know both Mike and his wife. We only wish we could have known Erika and Randy.”


Mot

her’s

D

ay

Mem

oria

l D

ay

Arm

ed

Forc

es D

ay

Crapper Races at the White Eagle

Too Much Horsepower on Main Street!

Doug from Sick Boy Motorcycle

Dan Hagerty and Amy

Mike and Scharf from Renegade Biker

Arlen Ness


News Bytes News BytesTRANSPORTATION CHIEF SEEKS TO LOBBY STATES TO PASS HELMET LAWS There’s a big difference be-tween promoting helmet usage and advocating helmet laws, and U.S. Transportation Secretary Mary Peters made it clear to Congress that she prefers the latter as her cor-nerstone to motorcycle safety. In testimony before the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee Transportation Subcom-mittee on March 6, Secretary Peters revealed her desire to promulgate nationwide helmet laws; “I support giving the information to states so that they can act on those laws,” she told Senators, adding “And I certainly have made my-self available to a number of states, and, in fact, have called governors when I see substantial increases in the number of motorcycle deaths in a state, especially a state that has repealed a helmet law.” Calling upon the federal govern-ment to ease lobbying restrictions imposed at the behest of motorcycle rights organizations across the country, Peters has requested legislation that will allow her to divert motor-cycle safety funding to convince states to enact mandatory helmet laws. Peters has sent letters to House and Senate leadership urging legislation to allow states to utilize federal funds intended for motorcycle rider training and awareness programs to promote helmet laws instead. SIKH SEEKS FREEDOM FROM CANADIAN HELMET LAW Baljinder Badesha, a 39-year-old father of four who immigrated to Canada in 1989 and had been an avid mo-torcyclist in his native India, disputed a $110 ticket for riding his 2003 Yamaha Shadow motorcycle without a helmet in 2005 has is now in court fighting Ontario’s motorcycle helmet law on religious grounds. With the Ontario Human Rights Commission at his side, Mr. Badesha argued that Ontario’s helmet law violates his religious freedom, since Sikhist beliefs prevent him from wearing anything over his turban. But Ontario Court Judge James Blacklock ruled that while the law prohibiting anyone riding a motorcycle without a helmet does violate his right to freedom of religion, it’s justifiable in terms of the benefit that society gains in pos-sible reduced health costs and the possible loss of people’s loved ones. The Crown’s case centered on increased costs to the health system should helmet-less Sikh motorcycle riders end up suffering head injuries, though Badesha’s attorneys pointed to a study that concluded that, assuming half of all Sikh motorcyclists wear turbans, the increase in serious injuries would be between .43 and 2.83 Sikh riders a year. The study also projected that medical treatment for traumatic brain injuries would increase from $151,700,000 to $151,834,685 — a .00005-per-cent overall increase in the province’s annual health-care budget. Badesha has announced that he will appeal the decision, and backed by the local Sikh community he now intends to challenge the constitutionality of the law rather than focusing his fight solely on his ticket. He and his supporters will also lobby politicians to change the law. Following the ruling, the World Sikh Organization of Canada (WSO) issued a statement ex-pressing disappointment at the court’s decision and assert-

ing that wearing a turban doesn’t substantially raise the risk either to the rider or to others on the road. The organization pointed to the Sikh motorcyclists in other jurisdictions who have been riding without helmets for many years. India, Hong Kong and Britain exempt Sikhs from wearing motor-cycle helmets, as do the Canadian Provinces of Manitoba and British Columbia, where a human-rights challenge precipitated the exemption. Similar challenges have failed in the United States. “We are confident of winning the battle this time,” Badesha said. “We don’t believe a helmet is safe. Every day riders with helmets die in road accidents. If I’m supposed to die today, I will die, and nothing can save me.” CYCLE SALES SLIDE Economic pressures, weakening dollar and decreased discretionary spending have contrib-uted to the first downturn in the motorcycle market in 14 years, and according to a recent LA Times article, espe-cially hard-hit are small-displacement dirtbikes and Harley-Davidson. On the up side, motorcycle sales in 2007 were over the 1-million mark for the fifth straight year, and battery and tire sales indicate that ridership and enthusiasm for the sport remain high. According to the Times article, the U.S. Department of Commerce estimates a 2.2% sales drop in 2007, but some manufacturers are estimating a slide of up to 8-10%. In a regulatory filing, Harley-Davidson Inc. said industry wide U.S. sales of large displacement motorcycles (over 650cc) fell 5 percent last year. Harley’s large-motorcy-cle domestic market share dipped to 49.4% from 50%, while their closest competitor Honda had a U.S. market share last year of 14.2%, down from 15.1%. Bloomberg news services reported recently that Yamaha is experiencing its first profit drop in eight years, Kawasaki claims sales are down but less than the industry average, and Honda and Suzuki each admit losses that parallel the industry overall; but there’s also some bright spots including Ducati, KTM, Victory, and overall scooter sales. On another positive note, industry market research group Freedonia has predicted an expanding global demand for motorcycles of 6% annually due primarily to emerging markets such as Asia and South America. And while declining motorcycle sales industry-wide has taken a toll on Harley-Davidson’s stock price, one of the country’s largest financial institutions, Citigroup, has removed the Milwaukee motorcycle manufacturer’s stock from its “recommended to sell’ list, citing sales trends that had “stabilized somewhat”. HONDA TO CEASE U.S. MOTORCYCLE PRODUCTION IN OHIO After nearly 30 years, Honda Motor Co. plans to stop producing motorcycles in the United States next year, ending production at its first U.S. plant and consolidating the Marysville Motorcycle Plant production at a new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Kumamoto, Japan which will be capable of producing 600,000 motorcycles a year.“This move allows us to improve the competitiveness and appeal of our products by applying the latest technolo-gies and production systems at one efficient location,” Akio

Hamada, president & CEO of Honda of America, said in a statement. “Obviously, the motorcycle plant has a lot of historical significance,” he said. “It was Honda’s first plant in North America. It started producing motorcycles on Nov. 10, 1979. So obviously, there’s a lot of emotion involved in this kind of decision. The sprawling plant, in Marysville, Ohio, employs 450 workers. Honda said there will be no layoffs when production ends in spring 2009. “There were a lot of people who felt disappointment,” said plant manager Jan Gansheimer, noting that many of the employees are mo-torcycle enthusiasts who have spent much of their careers at the plant. Mirroring the rest of the industry, Honda’s U.S. motorcycle sales fell in 2007, but the company said that its decision to end Ohio motorcycle production was not based on a softening American motorcycle market. Honda’s manu-facturing venture in America began at the Marysville plant in September, 1979, where its first product was a motocross machine. Over time, a $165 million capital investment was made in the facility, which became the worldwide supplier of some of Honda’s most popular models, such as the luxury touring Gold Wing. The motorcycle plant reached its peak production in 1997 when it turned out 174,000 vehicles, including all-terrain vehicles. In 2005, ATV production was moved to South Carolina. Last year, the Ohio factory built nearly 61,000 motorcycles, 44,000 of which were Gold Wings and VTX cruiser motorcycles. HORSEPOWER VS. HORSESENSE While speed and power typically dominate two-wheeled trends, a safety movement may be afoot featuring such hot topics as airbags from Honda, inflatable vests from Dainese, and “un-crashable” bike concepts from BMW. So it shouldn’t seem surprising that “Motorcycle News” is reporting that Honda and Yamaha are working with twelve car manufacturers to test and develop technology intended to “...reduce rear-end shunts, head-on collisions and drivers who turn right across a road in the face of oncoming traffic, a common cause of motorcycle accidents.” The systems, which will begin test-ing in Japan this month, enable automobiles to communi-cate speed and road position to other vehicles, and warn of potential accidents via voice alerts and navigation system messages. Fueled by government funded safety campaigns and worldwide legislative initiatives, these tests could signal a gradual revolution in motorcycle safety. MINNESOTA BIKERS FIGHT TICKETS FOR ROAD BLOCKING A judge has dismissed charges of obstructing legal process and running a stop sign against one of about 60 bikers stopped last summer near St. Joseph, MN for blocking an intersection during a run. The ruling by Stearns County District Court Judge Frank Kundrat comes after one of the other bikers was found not guilty of a stop sign violation after a trial. Scott Reichert recently took his case to court and was acquitted after the prosecution had present-ed its case and before Reichert had to put on a defense. Reichert, a member of the club Street Legal, originally

considered just paying the fine he told the St. Cloud Times newspaper, but then he saw the police reports that hinted at a possible motive that police wanted to target some of the BPMs. The July 7 run from the BPM clubhouse was intercepted by as many as 19 law enforcement agents, including mem-bers of the state Gang Strike Force and an agent from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The BPMs have been identified as a criminal gang based on criteria established by the Legislature, said Minnesota Gang Strike Force Commander Ron Ryan in defending their actions that day, A report filed in case by the Gang Strike Force cites two examples of criminal activity tied to the BPMs: one incident is from 1971; the other is from 1968.Reichert and attorneys representing the dozens of bik-ers stopped that day contend that the officers and sheriff’s deputies were looking for more. If that’s the case, a box-score review of the stop could be considered a lopsided defeat: The nineteen officers wrote about 60 citations for riders failing to stop at a stop sign and two for riders having a small amount of marijuana. They arrested one biker for disorderly conduct, but found no one wanted on warrants and no illegal weapons. About five dozen other cases could be headed for separate trials, according to lawyer Stephen O’Brien, the Minnesota Aid to Injured Motorcyclists (A.I.M.) Attorney representing the remaining bikers. WEIRD NEWS: MOTORCYCLES MAKE WOMEN’S CLOTHES FALL OFF A new trend is developing: motor-cycles and undressing women, reports clutchandchrome.com, citing two recent events that could have reporters and riders alike lending some credence to this possibility. First, Pamela Anderson made celebrity headlines around the world with her sold out Valentines Day show at a fa-mous Parisian Gentlemen’s club Cabaret house Le Crazy Horse. A crowd of over 500 fans paid $300 to watch the former Baywatch star give a performance that finished on the back of a Harley-Davidson motorcycle. A few weeks after Ms. Anderson’s unique Valentines present, pop star Prince threw a post-Oscar party in his Beverly Hills man-sion, which featured room after room of exotic dancers dressed in various themes with one featuring a scantily clad woman enthusiastically using a motorcycle as a prop. Many industry experts would agree, if this trend of women shed-ding clothing at the sight of a motorcycle becomes popular, currently struggling two-wheeled sales could see a marked improvement. QUOTABLE QUOTE: “For the saddest epitaph which can be carved in memory of a vanished liberty is that it was lost because its possessors failed to stretch forth a saving hand while yet there was time.”U.S. Supreme Court Justice George Sutherland (1862-1942)


THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 31

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 32

What A Crazy Way To Haul Stuff!


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 info contact Douglas Findlay at 202-250-0799 or [email protected]. Stay on top of the latest ABATE news and events by visiting www.ABATEofVA.com . ABATE Coalfield Riders Chaptermeets 7pm every 3rd Sunday at Little Big Horn Steak House, in Deel Fork, Grundy, VA 24614. Everyone welcome. For more information contact Steve Stacy at 276-935-2484 or [email protected]. ABATE Culpeper Chaptermeets 7pm every 2nd Thursday at Al’s Bar in Culpeper, VA(call for address). Everyone welcome. For more information contact Wayne Stephens at 540-937-5568 or [email protected]. ABATE First Capitol Chaptermeets 9am every 1st Sunday at Moose Lodge 757, 5429 Richmond Rd, Williamsburg VA 23188. Everyone welcome. For more info contact Gene Spare at 757-369-0755 or [email protected]. ABATE Iron Horse Cavalry Chapter of Lynchburg & surrounding counties meets 7pm every 1st Tuesday at Mary Jane’s Café, (Kemper Street Station) Lynchburg VA Everyone welcome. Coordinator Tony Tronco (434) 944-1177 ABATE Lonesome Pine Chaptermeets 6:30pm every 1st Tuesday at Mosby’s Restaurant, 205 Ridgeview Rd, Wise VA 24293. Everyone welcome. For more info contact Shag Meade at 276-565-4541 or [email protected]. ABATE Mason-Dixon Chaptermeets 8pm every 2nd and 4th Tuesday at John’s Place, 11104 Lee Hwy, Fairfax VA 22030. Everyone welcome. For more information contact Bob Seoane at 703-206-0571 or 703-309-6605 or [email protected]. ABATE Olde Dominion Chaptermeets 8pm every 1st Monday at JV’s Restaurant, 6666 Arlington Blvd, Falls Church, VA. Everyone welcome. For more info contact Nick Mursin at 301-633-0917 or [email protected]. ABATE River City ChapterStarting Saturday, July 7 we will meet at Talons (11800 Hull Street Rd., about 1 mile east of Rt. 288) on the first Sat. of each month at 11am. Everyone welcome. For more information contact Steve Skeens at 804-389-8293 or [email protected]. ABATE Virginia Cruisers Chaptermeets 1 PM on first Sunday of each month at the White Oaks Lodge,3533 Kecoughtan RD, Hampton, VA 23661. Contact [email protected].

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

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

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]

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

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

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

Bikers with Heart Foundation, Inc. 501 ©3 Non-Profit Organization, 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.orgPres. George A. CipraBlue 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, Virginia 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 General Booth Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23451. All meetings are open to the public and all are welcome. P.O.Box 3077, Virginia Beach, Va 23457 (757) 961-8382

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Flaming Knights MC - Norfolk Chapterwww.FKMCNORFOLKVA.comFlaming 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 [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 Ministry4181 Worsham Rd. Powhatan, Va 23139 (804) 598-9026; [email protected] www.heavenssaints.com

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

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

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

Iron Horse MinistriesMeets 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]

Richmond Riderswww.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 VAMeets 3rd Monday every month @ Moose Lodge #715, located at 2307 Lakeside Dr., Lynchburg VA. Public welcome. Website: www.rollingthunderch4va.com

Rolling Thunder,® Inc. - VA Chapter 5Meetings are held every 2nd Sunday of the month @ American Legion, Post 2, 820 Winfield Road, Petersburg, VA 23803Mike Walton, President (804) 640-1333

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

Sisters of Chrome Women Motorcycle Club/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 MINISTRIES1509 Chesapeake Ave, Chesapeake, VA 23324 www.sonofthundermm.com [email protected] meet every first Saturday of each month at thunder alleyCall 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.The 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


Thanks Dion!

Burn ‘em Up!

From the GUNNY’S SACK

This month there is a ton of information to pass on to all you good folks out there. The Gunny’s move into his own digs is nearly complete and I’m ever so grateful the chore is almost behind me. Moving is for young folks, certainly not for old farts like me. I hope this will be the last move in this lifetime for me!

I need to remind all that the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM) Convention is just around the corner. MAY 8-11, 2008 is the date and is particularly important as this year is an election year. There will be seminars and workshops the whole time folks, and every one of these events has an impact on the way we do things in our own backyards. The Confederations of Clubs meeting alone is worth the trip. We have won some and lost some this year, and the lessons learned will help us in our fights for freedom in our own states.

The 2008 NCOM Convention is in Houston, Texas, at George Bush International Airport, at the Sheraton North Houston Hotel, at 15700 JFK Blvd, Houston, Texas 77032. The reservation phone is: (281) 442-5100 and ask for the NCOM rate. Call right away to make your reservations before you wind up in an adjacent hotel and find yourself going back and forth. The days will be filled with enough work that you’ll want to stay in the same hotel as the Convention. Plus, all the fun kids will be there.

To register, look for flyers from your state Motorcycle Rights Organiza-tion, contact NCOM at 1-800-531-2424, or look online, at www.aimncom.com. But send your people, as many as you can afford. NCOM suggest at least two people from each group or club, so you can cover all the workshops and seminars that will be taking place. The three main days, Thursday - Saturday, will be some of the busiest you will encounter for some time, but the information you bring back to your people will help to guide your decisions forward.

We’re losing our freedoms faster than we realize. We better get a han-dle on it soon or we won’t know what hit us when we wake up one day and find we don’t have any say in our lives, let alone our motorcycles.

Don’t forget to register for both the Convention and the Silver Spoke Awards Banquet on Saturday night. The cost for both is $75.00, and for the NCOM Convention alone it’s $40.00. It’s money well spent on educa-tion for you and your people. The Banquet is the wrap-up of the Conven-tion. Ya don’t want to miss it. This is where NCOM honors those folks in our society who’ve contributed in some special way to the welfare of the motorcycle community. All in all a fitting end to a very intense three days. Don’t come thinking it’s gonna be one long party, not that some partying doesn’t take place. We go so we can learn and absorb information that will be helpful at home in our continuing fight for our constitutional rights and freedoms, as bikers and citizens. Make no mistake about it, there are those who claim our Constitution and Bill of Rights are outdated and need to be abolished. I tell you here and now brothers and sisters, our forefathers knew what they were talking about when they wrote and ap-proved those documents. We owe them a great debt.

GUNNY AGAIN: Every month I remind ya that your AIM Attorney is your best friend if ya have any kind of a problem with the law. It’s good advicefolks. Talk to your AIM guy if ya have a gripe.

Keep the round side on the bottom!Gunny, Oregon’s AIM Chief Of Staff

In Virginia, Tom McGrath is you’re A.I.M. Attorney(800) 321-8968 www.motorcyclevirginia.com

In Maryland - Jay Irwin Block, (800) 875-6554, www.stahlandblock.com


The Joker’s Wild

The Joker’s Wild

This happened on a flight ready to depart for Newark, New Jersey. Jack was sitting in his assigned seat when a guy took the seat beside him. The guy was an emotional wreck, pale, hands shaking, moaning in fear. “What’s the matter?” Jack asked. “I’ve been transferred to Newark, New Jersey. There are crazy people there. They have a lot of shootings, gangs, riots, drugs, poor public schools, and a high crime rate.” Jack replied, “I’ve lived in Newark all my life. It’s not as bad as the media says. Find a nice home, go to work, mind your own business and enroll your kids in a nice school. It’s as safe a place as anywhere in the world.” The guy finally relaxed and said, “Thank you. I’ve been worried to death, but if you live there and say it’s OK, I’ll take your word for it. By the way, what do you do for a living?” “Me?” said Jack. “I’m a tail gunner on a Budweiser truck.”

An elderly couple was driving cross-country, and the woman was driving. She gets pulled over by the highway patrol. The officer says, “Ma’am, did you know you were speeding?” The woman turns to her husband and asks, “What did he say?” The old man yells, “HE SAYS YOU WERE SPEEDING.” The patrolman says, “May I see your license?” The woman turns to her husband and asks, “What did he say?” The old man yells, “HE WANTS TO SEE YOUR LICENSE.” The woman gives him her license. The patrolman says, “I see you are from Kansas. I spent some time there once, had the worst sex with a woman I have ever had.” The woman turns to her husband and asks, “What did he say?” “HE THINKS HE KNOWS YOU,” the old man yells.

A woman, in her fifties, is at home happily jumping naked on her bed and squealing with delight. Her husband watches her for a while and asks,“Do you have any idea how ridiculous you look? What’s the matter with you?” The woman continues to bounce on the bed and says, “I don’t care what you think. I just came from having a mam-mogram and the doctor says that not only am I healthy but I have the breasts of an 18 year old.” The husband replies, “What did he say about your 55 year old ass?” She hap-pily replied, “Your name never came up,”.

Einstein was born March 14, 1879. He would be 128 if he were alive today. Few people remember that the Nobel Prize winner married his cousin, Elsa Lowenthal, after his first marriage dissolved in 1919. At the time he stated that he was attracted to Elsa because she was so well en-dowed. He suggested that if you are attracted to women with large breasts, the attraction is even stronger if there is a DNA connection. This came to be know as Einstein’s Theory of ‘Relative Titty’

An old Kentucky farmer was in a bar drinking and looking all depressed. His friend asked him why he was looking depressed and he replied, “Some things you just can’t explain. This morning I was outside milking. As soon as the bucket was filled the cow kicked it down with his left

foot so I tied up his left to a pole. I began to fill up the bucket again and he kicked it down with his right foot, so I tied his right to a pole too. As soon as I finished milkin’’ him again he knocked down the bucket with his tail and I took off my belt and tied up his tail with my belt. As I was tying up his tail, my pants dropped down, then my wife came out and well, trust me, some things you just can’t explain!

A Cajun man wants a job, but the foreman won’t hire him until he passes a little math test. Here is your first question, the foreman said. “Without using numbers, represent the number 9.” “Without numbers?” The Cajun says, “Dat is easy.” And proceeds to draw three trees. “What’s this?” the boss asks. “Ave you got no brain? Tree and tree and tree make nine,” says the Cajun. “Fair enough,” says the boss. “Here’s your second question. Use the same rules, but this time the number is 99.” The Cajun stares into space for a while, then picks up the picture that he has just drawn and makes a smudge on each tree. “Ere you go.” The boss scratches his head and says, “How on earth do you get that to represent 99?” “Each of da trees is dirty now. So, it’s dirty tree, and dirty tree, and dirty tree. Dat is 99.” The boss is getting worried that he’s going to actu-ally have to hire this Cajun, so he says, “All right, last question. Same rules again, but represent the number 100.” The Cajun stares into space some more, then he picks up the picture again and makes a little mark at the base of each tree and says, “Ere you go. One hundred.” The boss looks at the attempt. “You must be nuts if you think that represents a hundred!” The Cajun leans forward and points to the marks at the base of each tree and says, “A little dog come along and crap by each tree. So now you got dirty tree and a turd, dirty tree and a turd, and dirty tree and a turd, which makes one hundred.”

One hot summer day, Bubba came to town with his dog, tied her under the shade of a tree, and headed into the bar for a cold one. Twenty minutes later, a police-man entered the bar and asked, “Who owns the dog tied under that tree outside?” Bubba said it was his. “Your dog seems to be in heat” the officer said. Bubba replied, “No way. She’s cool ‘cause she’s tied up under that there shade tree.” The policeman said, “No! You don’t understand, your dog needs to be bred.” “No way,” said the redneck. “That dog don’t need bread. She ain’t hungry ‘cause I fed her good this mornin’.” The ex-asperated policeman said, “NO! You don’t understand; your dog wants to have sex!” Bubba looked at the cop and said, “Well, have it, pardner, I always wanted me a police dog.”

Two blondes are standing in the back yard looking up at the moon when one says to the other...”which do you think is closer...the moon or Florida?” The other says...” The moon dummy...ya’ can’t see Florida from here!”


Join Rose & her friends every Tuesday for their “Ride-In” to The Wild Rose Café in Chester, VA.

WILD HOG

Redneck Mansion

Tattoo Of The Month

BACK

In The Day

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE �0 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE �1

BIKER ACCESSORIES, APPAREL, LEATHERS & GIFTS

Virginia

Cavelli’sLeather Shop & Shoe ~ Boot Repair

3514 Oaklawn Blvd.Hopewell, Va 23860

(804)458-2016

Cycle Works1747 George Washington Memorial Hwy

Gloucester Point, VA (804) 642-3334

Diamond Jim’s Leather & Motorcycle Gear3925 Jefferson Davis Hwy

Stafford, VA (703) 221- 8334

www.diamondjims.us

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

Renegade Classics

14575 Jefferson Davis HwyWoodbridge, VA 22191

703-499-9533www.nova.rcosva.com

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

Dirty Dick’s Crab HouseOn the Bypass, Hwy 158

Kill Devil Hills, NC(252) 449-CRAB

Virginia

Boneshakers Saloon1297 General Booth BlvdVirginia Beach, VA 23451

(757) 961-8382www.boneshakerssaloon.com

Bubba’s Restaurant“The HOG Pen”

4000 Williamsburg Rd.Richmond, VA 23231

(804) 236-1600

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 City10716 Ocean Gateway

Berlin, MD (410) 629-1599

Harley-Davidson/Buell Shop of Williamsport

10210 Governor Lane Blvd - Suite 2004Williamsport, 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 3057 Kings Highway Suffolk, VA. 23435

Phone (757) 538-2848

Burcham Cycles, Inc.333 B Industrial DrivePetersburg, VA 23803

(804) 526-2300www.burchamscycles.com

Chix Custom Cycles3745 Shore Drive


www.chixcustomcycles.com

Classic Twins19363 Brandy RoadBrandy Station, VA

(540) 829-0313

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

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/Buell6450 George Washington Memorial

HighwayYorktown, 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 RoadLynchburg, VA 24502

(434) 455-2143&

5411 Williamson RoadRoanoke, VA 24012

(540) 362-0140

Iron Core977 Chimney Hill Shopping Center


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

Pro Bikes, Inc.1309 Virginia Beach Blvd.

Suite 104Virginia Beach, Va 23454

(757) 270-0922probikesinc.com

Revolutionary Harley-Davidson6401 Richmond RdLightfoot, VA 23090

(757) 565-5122

Richmond Harley-Davidson10441 Washington Highway

Glen Allen, VA(804) 550-9280

Riders, Inc 928 Cycle LaneSouth Hill, VA877-913-1379

www.ridersinc.net

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

Velocity Motorcycles – Eagle RidersSALES & RENTALS

1202 North BoulevardRichmond, VA 23230

www.Velocityvintage.com (804) 353-3456

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-DavidsonHighway 119 Preece Bottom Rd

Delbartown, WV 25670(304) 426-4241

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

The Cactus Steakhouse & Saloon 6401 George Washington Memorial

Hwy Rt 17Yorktown, VA

(757) 898-8500

Damon & Company Sports Bar & Grill

7104 George Washington Memorial HwyRt. 17 North

Gloucester, VA(804) 693-7218

www.damonsbar.com

Dirty Dick’s Crab HouseRudee Inlet

Virginia Beach, VA(757) 491-DICK

HOOTERs of Chesterfield 1211 Huguenot Rd

Midlothian, VA(804) 378-9464

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

(757) 596-9104

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

Knuckleheads Roadhouse401 North Witchduck RoadVirginia Beach, VA 23462

(757) 644-6200www.knuckleheadsvb.com

Mary Jayne’s Lazy Horse Bar & 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!

Wild Rose Café4627 Chester Square Road

Chester, VA 23831(804) 768-9090

West VirginiaFat Boys Pork Palace

Specializing in hand Pulled Carolina Style BBQ

Foot of the mountain Rt 33 Brandywine WV

(304) 249-7025 www.Pendletoncounty.net

MOTORCYCLE RENTALS

Virginia

Eagle Rider Motorcycle Rental 14159 Mariah Court

Chantilly, VA703-802-9860

1-866-268-6782www.eagleriderdc.com

Harley-Davidson/Buell of Ocean City10716 Ocean Gateway

Berlin, MD (410) 629-1599

Kitty Hawk Harley-Davidson8739 Caratoke Highway

Harbinger, NC 27941252 491-2091

www.kittyhawkhd.com

Shenandoah Harley-Davidson/Buell213 Rolling Thunder Lane

Staunton, VA 24401(540) 213-8026

www.shenandoahhd.com

FUN PLACES TO STAY

North Carolina

Barry’s Walnut Island Restaurant, Lodge, Sports Center & Marina

169 Walnut Island BlvdGrandy, NC 27939

(252) 453-4153www.outerbanksbikerally.com

Comfort Inn Oceanfront South 8031 Old Oregon Inlet Road

Nags Head, NC(800) 334-3302

PERSONAL SERVICES

Kuttin Stationfor all your hair needs!!

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

Biker Specials!(804) 469-9003

Virginia’s Transportation Claims Service

Auto/Motorcycle/Truck Appraisal Specialist Statewide Coverage

– We come to youRandy S. Baker Jr.

(866) 512-2155Office (804) 794-1991Mobile (804) 263-5563

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 MackerelSea 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

Lucky 131800 West Broad St.Richmond, VA 23220

BANDS

Bad AceContact Jeff Abbott [email protected]

(757) 989-5559 or (757) 218-7467

Chris Berardo & the Desperardoswww.desberardo.com or

www.myspace.com/chrisberardo

GatorHeadwww.gatorhead.net or www.myspace/

gatorhead.Ken (757)850-3273 or Dreama at

(757)567-9994

Motorpsychicwww.myspace.com/motorpsychicband

Contact Jimmy Williams - [email protected]

www.myspace.com/jimmykwilliams

Southern Attitude BandCountry * Southern Rock * Classic Rock

For Bookings Call Ben Duncan (757) 713-2088

The Rhythm PigsContact: Timmy Fodrey

(757) 286-6001www.rhythmpigs.com

10 Foot 6 Contact: Sonny Bowen

(757) 236-5345 or (804) 642-2707Email: [email protected]

TOWING

Peaco Towing, Inc. 24 HOUR SERVICE6906 School Avenue

Richmond, Virginia 23228(804) 262-1001

REAL ESTATE

Rice & Company Realtors2008 Snead Ave

Colonial Heights, VA 23834(804) 504-4888

[email protected]

TRAILER SALES

Segeleon Racing Email: [email protected]

(757) 651-7451

Trailer World1982 George Washington

Memorial HighwayGloucester Point, VA 23062

www.vatrailerworld.com

Virginia Trailer Sales, Inc.486 Maury River Rd.Lexington, VA 24450

(540) 464-1006 phone(540) 464-3244 fax

[email protected]

BIKER FRIENDLY DIRECTORY BIKER FRIENDLY DIRECTORY

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE �2 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE �3

GOALSInternational Female Ride Day is a campaign for women only, aimed at highlighting the female motorcycle rider. Its mission is that of building and underlining broadspectrum (and public) awareness of female motorcy-clists while simultaneously encour-aging other women to take up the activity. The event shines a spotlight on women motorcyclists—it’s a day for them, of them, everywhere. A day

emphasizing the many numbers of women who ride motorcycles; supporting their diversities, abilities and the fun/enjoyment they embrace for the activity. Additionally the day was created with three standing guidelines:1) Freedom to participate in any manner desired.2) Not to be conceived as a charity or fundraiser; or partnered with one.3) Not to be taken over by an industry or commercially motivated body.

HISTORYInternational Female Ride Day is a MOTORESS initiative—“connecting women with motorcycling”. The concept was a much earlier idea yet finally realised with its introduction in 2007, in Canada as a national event on the premise outlined above. The first step was basically to introduce the cam-paign under the principle of a synchronized day, nationwide, where women would simply JUST RIDE. Mothers’ day and the famed synchronized music concerts to benefit HIV Aids--“Live Aid” have been the role models for this concept. During 2007 the participation and success was over whelming and not just within Canada! Women riders of the United States jumped at the idea and provided extraordinary involvement as they too rode on Female Ride Day. In 2008, as witnessed by the building of activities planned this year, there is no doubt Female Ride Day is here to stay. Each year the campaign will grow and expand so that International Female Ride Day is the day of women motorcyclists.

WHAT IT ISFemale Ride Day is a campaign for women only who own, ride or have access to a motorcycle, inviting women to “JUST RIDE”. By riding, women actively contribute to building awareness of female motorcyclists. They also demonstrate to others the fun and enjoyment women of all diversities share in this activity. The event occurs on the first Friday of May where women participate by simply being on their motorcycle to…JUST RIDE!…TO WORK…TO SCHOOL…TO MEET A FRIEND(S)…TO FITNESS CLASS…TO YOUR LOCAL MOTORCYCLE RETAILER…TO A COUNTRY ROAD…TO TAKE AN ATV OR TRACK DAY COURSE…TO A SHOPPING MALL…TO MEET WITH YOUR RIDING CLUBThe day invites women to simply be on a motorcycle--avoiding too much structure. It is not an organised ride, not a charity or a fundraiser for reasons of ensuring its main message not become diluted—highlighting women motorcyclists. Motorcycles of all brands, styles and capacities--road bikes, scooters, off road/dirt category motorcycles and ATV’s are welcome.A day devoted to women of all ages, all experience levels, demonstrating their passion, their pleasure and their comradeship alone or together in the activity of motorcycling riding.

At the end of the day, women are to send in their photo showing themselves and their motorcycle on 2 May--capturing some aspect of how they enjoyed the Female Ride Day experience. Those doing so receive a ride day souvenir (while supplies last). Several photos will be uploaded on the MOTORESS website.

FAQSIS THERE A PLANNED/ PRE-DETERMINED MEETING POINT OR ROUTE? No. The day is free to make it as you wish-–JUST RIDE! However there are many organised exciting meet-ups and rides taking place initiated by different clubs or retailers-- even including city specific “kick-offs”. These you may decide to join in on--it’s all up to you. (See below for links--available shortly).IS REGISTRATION REQUIRED TO PARTICIPATE? No. However if you wish to receive the Female Ride Day souvenir you are required to download and submit the participation form. Complete the form and mail it/fax it/ scan it to address indicated on the form.DO I REQUIRE A MOTORCYCLE LICENSE? Yes and No. If you ride on the road yes indeed you are required by law to possess the proper documenta-tion. If you own or operate an off road vehicle such as motocross, trials, enduro or ATV motorcycle and will be riding on a track or trail, you may not need a license. Check with your local licensing office for requirements. MUST I OWN A MOTORCYCLE? No. In order to participate you need a motorcycle (scooter, off road, ATV, etc.). You may decide to rent one or bor-row one. If you do borrow one from someone you know, be sure it’s in good condition, the insurance covers you in case of mishap and that you do indeed have the proper license, qualifications and skills for operation.NOTE WORTHYThe word “FEMALE” was selected rather than “women” or “ladies” because of the diversity of how women see themselves. Female makes no reference to age or culture while at the same time addressing women in the broadest sense. This is key to the campaign—no limitations, no boundaries. Interna-tional Female Ride Day occurs every year on the first Friday in May. The ultimate goal of International Female Ride Day is a global synchronised day dedicated to women riders.FACEBOOK, MEET UP, YOUTUBE, MYSPACE, just some of the social networks that have been buzzing on for the past 6 months, preparing for day. YOUTUBE videos are posted encouraging women to ride.Worldwide, national and local women’s clubs such as Chic Riders, WIMA, the Durham Divas, Sistas, HOG chapters, etc. have planned rides/kick off’s for the day. Women often have difficulties finding the right rider club or other women companions to ride with—Female Ride Day makes the step much easier.

LIABILITY Under no circumstances will MOTORESS or any of our employees, licensors, partners, sponsors or suppliers be liable for any special or consequential damages; injury, illness or death that result from the par-ticipation in this event --even if advised of the possibility of damages resulting from participating in this event. Neither we nor our partners, or any of their affiliates, will be liable for any direct, indirect, consequential,special, exemplary or other damages that may result, including but not limited to general or economic loss, injury, illness or death regarding this event and your participation in International FEMALE RIDE DAY.*the above displayed on MOTORESS website under liabilityGENERAL CONTACT INFORMATION:International FEMALE RIDE DAYC/O MOTORESS, PO Box 98136, 970 Queen Street East,Toronto ON M4LM 1J0 CANADATelephone: 416.686.2924 Email: [email protected]

INTERNATIONAL FEMALE RIDE DAY2 MAY 2008

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE �� THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE ��

PREACHER RICK

Preacher Rick was born in WV, but was raised in North-ern VA. He began riding at 15, but took 16 years off and began riding again in 1993. He now rides a 1998 Harley-Davidson Road King Classic. He’s been married to his lovely wife, Teresa since 1996. Rick has served as presi-dent of the Northern VA Christian Riders, Chapter 348 of the Christian Motorcyclists Association since 2003. And is a Licensed Professional Pastoral Counselor, serving as Lay-Counselor at First Baptist Church of Woodbridge, VA. He works full-time as a Computer Operations Super-visor for Inova Health System.

Ah, spring is here at last…

It’s time to get out there on the open road and feel the wind in your hair and the sun in your face… but wait, what’s that? Rain!

Yep, that’s the perils of riding in spring. “April showers bring May flowers!” Good for the flow-ers, but not so good for us bikers. But that’s why we own rain gear, right?

That rain may be a nuisance, but it is needed. And it is also very helpful for us bikers. The roads are covered with grit and sand from the winter months. And that can create some unsafe turns for us if we’re not careful. But all that rain cleanses the roadways, making them safer for us to travel and bettering our odds of keeping the rubber side down.

Cleansing is good for us as well. Just like the roads, we all have some dirt and grime in our lives: Something that we feel separates us from God and casts doubt on the security of our future. And there is no shortage of people out there telling us just what we have to do to in order to clean up our lives. But thankfully we don’t need to worry about that.

Just like God created the rain that freely falls to earth to provide the water that we need to sur-vive, and washes the gunk off the road to make our paths safer; He also provided the means to wash away the sin from our lives. And the good news is that this is just as free as the falling rain! It has already been provided, all we have to do is accept it and we can ride freely down the open road ahead of us with confidence and security.

So the next time you’re out riding and you see rain off in the distance, don’t look at it as something to dread. Instead, look at it as a

reminder that those roads up ahead will be clean and fresh following the rain. And see it as a reminder of what God has provided for you through His Son; Jesus Christ.

Here’s wishing you all a happy, joyous and safe riding season!

Always and All Ways in Christ

< )))>< Rick ‘Preacher’ Saunders

A final farewell to a fellow rider & friend. Frank Tepov-ich, who was President of Honda Riders of Tidewater, passed away during his trip down to Daytona Bike Week. Someone driving a van going 70mph in a con-struction zone slammed into the back of his motorcycle on I-95 in Florida. He was transported to the hospital in critical condition and later died from injuries sus-tained in the crash. Frank was loved by everyone who knew him – he’ll be deeply missed by all.

Farewell Frank

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE �� THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE ��

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE ��

Date post:	11-Apr-2015
Category:	Documents
Upload:	wcfstudios-tr-va
View:	1,046 times
Download:	0 times

Thunder Roads Virginia Magazine - April '08

Documents