thunder roads virginia magazine - december - '07

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 2

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

Offi ce 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 Magnifi cent - 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!

Warren Ells, Art Director

Thunder Pub.

Layout & Design

Correspondents

On Eagle’s Wings Writers

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

Reverend Rock Rick Saunders

Mid-Atlantic Thunder RoadsMid-Atlantic Thunder Roads

Sales / Correspondents

Beth Albert - Sales [email protected]

Phone: cell (804) 536-1299

Thunder Roads Crew

WEBMASTER www.WCFStudios.com

Rod the Magnifi centAd Design

Leah [email protected]

(540) 836-9989

Lorree & Randy Kidder

MySpace Mgr: Stacie Bennett

myspace.com/thunderroads_virginia

Bo Albert Cindy Mease

Tim Wilmoth Ricky Derby

Dave Sutton

Cathy “Bzgal” Clare Chris “Tigger” Rockhill

Linda [email protected]

(757) 735-8737

SOUNDCHECK

DeAna Borza [email protected]

(804) 698-9627

BZgal, Tigger & Apehanger

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.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS...............................................4

PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN.................................6

HOT SHOTS...................................................................16

NEWS BYTES...............................................................28

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS.....................................35

THE JOKER’S WILD....................................................38

BIKER FRIENDLY DIRECTORY................................42

READERS RIDES.........................................................44

ON EAGLES WINGS...................................................47

NATIONAL FOUNDERSToni McCoy Shearon & Brian Shearon

1421 Chapmansboro RoadChapmansboro, TN 37035

Offi ce: 615-792-0040 Fax: 615-792-7580e-mail: [email protected]

© THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY THUNDER PUBLISHING. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NO PART OF ITS CONTENT MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION. PUBLISHER ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY AND IS NOT TO BE HELD LIABLE FOR ERRORS BEYOND THE COST OF THE SPACE OC-CUPIED BY THE ERROR, SLANDER OF ANY GROUP OR INDIVIDUAL, FAILURE TO PRODUCE ANY ISSUE AS SCHEDULED DUE TO REA-SONS BEYOND OUR CONTROL, 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 ALCOHOL OR OTHER DRUGS.

LETTER FROM THE EDITORSeasons greetings to all of our friends as we bring to a close another great year of riding & enjoying life on the road. It’s been quite a year of change for many of us as we have encountered some of those T’s in the road of life throughout the past months of 2007. As we’ve come to those crossroads, trying to decide which way to go to help make a better way of life for ourselves, many of us have made our choices & are starting to move forward & others continue to sit looking at their options trying to make up their mind as to which new direction to steer themselves. It seems like each year at this time, we start to refl ect on what’s happened in our lives & look to the new year as an opportunity to make it right for ourselves with all sorts of New Year’s resolutions of things we want to change or accomplish. It’s really a cool thing actually. Sort of like wiping the slate clean or something & starting fresh, no matter what the previous year had brought your way. If you’re one of those who is still sitting & undecided about which way to go, maybe you can use the instincts you have when you get on your bike – just pick a direction & go! It has got to be better than from the direction that you came from that brought you to the T so go with it – make it an adventure & who knows, it may just be the best move you’ve ever made…you’ll never know unless you try it. It really has been a great year for all of us as I’m sure it has been for you too. A year of making new friends, experiences, new roads to travel & plenty of wind on our faces – that’s the best part…it’s what we all live for isn’t it?..the wind in our faces. Have you ever stuck your head out of the car window when you can’t be on your bike? That’s right…I’m sure most of you have. It just gets in the blood & once it does…that’s it. Ride as much as you can!We’d like to send a huge THANK YOU to each & every one of you for rolling along with us throughout this past year – we couldn’t have done it without your support. There are a lot of fantastic things happening here in Thunder Roads in 2008 & we hope that you’ll all stay with us to enjoy another great year. We always welcome any suggestions or comments that you may have & please feel free to drop us a line anytime. We consider this YOUR magazine – the riders & readers of the Mid-Atlantic. We keep it rolling for YOU so please be a part of it with us.We hope that you all enjoy some very special moments with your family & friends throughout this magical & joyous time. Please be safe on your journeys as you travel to see your loved ones for the holidays. On behalf of the entire staff here at Thunder Roads we wish you a very Merry Christmas with much love & continued happiness for the New Year. Peace & Love to you all.See you next year!!!

Kelly


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!

DECEMBER

Dec 1st Christmas Open House at Shenandoah HD – Staunton, VA Sales! Snacks! & Santa! Make sure to get an angel from our Angel Tree to help make a need child’s holiday special. Shenandoah HD will be a drop off spot for Toys For Tots, sponsored by the Marine Corps League.

Dec 2nd 2007 Danville, VA Toy Run - Toys For Tots – Danville, VA To benefi t Marine Corp Reserve. Registration starts at 1:00pm @ Thunder Road H-D. Ride leaves at 2:00pm. Ride ends at Lonestar Steakhouse & Saloon Donations of a New Un-wrapped Toy for either a boy or girl or $10 donation per person. Photos with Santa from 12pm – 2pm. Ride pin to 1st 100 registered. Co-sponsored with the Blue Knights VA XIII

Dec 8th 7th Annual Sheriff Susan’s Toys for Tots Run - Currituck,N.C. Saturday December 8, 2007. Registration begins at 10:30 at Tim Dogs in Moyock, N.C. Ride in starts at 11:30 am from “Tim Dogs” (Behind Gateway Bank,US 158 Moyock). Ride is Escorted by Sheriff Susan Johnson. Ride ends at Barry’s Walnut Island Restaurant. Pig Pickin, Oyster Roast, Door Prizes, Live Music. Supported with the help of the Currituck County Law Enforcement Association.

Dec 15thWreaths Across America – Richmond, VA We will meet at Richmond National Cemetery, 1701 Williamsburg Rd at 9:00am Saturday December 15th, 2007. The fi rst order of business will be to unload the wreaths from the truck. The actual ceremony will begin at 12:00 and then we will begin laying the wreaths. There will be 2500 wreaths to lay. If you live in the Richmond area and would like to help please feel free to contact me. Reverend Rock at [email protected], or call 804-745-3445. Also visit my website at www.pointman.homestead.com. To fi nd out more about Wreaths Across America, visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org

Dec 16th Toys For Tots Toy Drive – Virginia Beach, VA Presented by Knuckleheads Roadhouse. From12 noon to 7pm. Bring in a new toy or $10 cash and receive a 15% Off card form Knuckleheads Roadhouse (good for day of event only). Featuring United States Marine Corps Honor Guard. Live Music by Butter. Live Auction. 50/50 Raffl e. Appearance by Mr. & Mrs. Santa Claus. Virginia Beach Monster Fire Truck. Plenty of FREE parking & much more…Everyone is welcome & bring the kids! 401 North Witchduck Road, Virginia Beach, VA (757) 644-6200. www.knuckleheadsvb.com

Dec 25th MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

Dec 29th & 30th Motorcycle Spectacular 2007 – Chantilly, VA Presented by Cycle Promotions – Dulles Expo & Conference Center, 4369 Chantilly Center. Saturday 11am – 6pm & Sunday 10am – 5pm. Admission only $15 per Adult, Kids under 16 FREE with paid adult. Bike, Builders and Blues. Compete for Ms. Cycle Pro USA. Bike Show with cash prizes, People’s Choice Tattoo Contest, Vendor supported Fashion Show. Live Blues music with The Dennis Peters Band. For more info call (386) 252-3101 or visit www.cycleprousa.com

JANUARY 2008

Jan 1st HAPPY NEW YEAR’S!!! Enjoy yourselves & as always, please drink responsibly – We want to see you all in one piece out on the road in 2008. Most importantly…friends don’t let friends drink & drive. Please lookout for each other & be safe! Make it a great year!

Jan 19th & 20th The Mid-Atlantic Motorsports Expo – Richmond, VA Presented by Cycle Promotions USA. 2 days of bike vendors & entertainment. Richmond Raceway Complex. 600 E Laburnum, Richmond, VA 23222. Saturday 11am – 6pm. Sunday 10am – 5pm. Admission: adult tickets $15. Kids under 16 free with paid adult. Super Builders Craig Whitford & Brad Ruel. Bike Show – enter to win $.Enter People’s Choice Tattoo contest. Compete for Ms. Cyclepro USA (cash, title respect). Music by the Dennis Peters Band. Ice cold beer. Vendor supported Fashion Show. For more information call (386) 252-3101 or visit www.cycleprousa.com

Jan 21st VCOM LOBBY DAY – Richmond, VA Virginia Motorcycle Lobby Day - Flex your political muscle! On Sunday January 20, from 12:00 to 5:00 pm, Virginia Coalition of Motorcyclists lobbyists will

lead an information meeting at the Holliday Inn Crossroads at 2000 Staples Mill Rd., Richmond, VA to discuss this year’s legislation affecting motorcyclists. On Monday the 21st we leave the Holiday Inn at 8:00 am sharp for our annual trip to the Capitol. After lobbying our legislators, we will attend the opening of the House of Delegates daily session and be recognized from the fl oor. Afterwards, The Law Offi ces of Tom McGrath takes everyone to Penny Lane Pub for lunch as a thank you from coming to support Virginia Motorcyclists. For more information you can call VCOM at (800) 437-9434. For Room Reservations call (804)359-6061 and ask for the VCOM rate.

FEBRUARY 2008

Feb 8th – 10th Maryland State Fairgrounds Timonium Motorcycle Show – Timonium, MD Best East Coast show in 2007. See Chica – 1st appearance in region – winner of Discovery Channels Biker Build Off. West Coast’s hottest builder showing off his coolest bikes. Michelle Smith, host of Speed Channel’s #1 motorcycle series “American Thunder”. Custom & Antique Bike Show. All makes welcome. Big cash prizes. Impressive cut glass trophies for over 50 bike classes. Free parking for cars & trailers. Professional judging (out of state, non bias, nationally recognized). Domestic & Foreign experts. RV hookups available, free electrical outlet, engraved show commemorative plaque with each entry for 1st 170 entries. American Recreational Promotions, 1818 Pot Spring Road, Suite 112, Timonium, MD ( 410) 561-7323. email [email protected] or visit www.cycleshow.net. (One exit north of I-695 (Baltimore Beltway) & I-83 north (York Harrisburg Expressway)

Feb 14th HAPPY VALENTINES DAY! Take your sweetheart out for a ride

Feb 16th & 17th The 3rd Annual Northeast Motorcycle Expo 2008 – Fredericksburg, VA Presented by Kev/Marv Productions. Adults $15, Children $7. 16th: 10am – 5pm. 17th: 10am – 5pm. Fredericksburg Expo & Conference Center. Dave Perewitz. Michele Smith. Charity Build Off between Jody Perewitz & Sara Liberte. Brad Ruel. Stunt Show Spectacular. Girls from Hooters, Custom Bike Show, Live Music. For more info contact (978) 688-8888. KevMarv.com

Feb 29th – Mar 9th Daytona Bike Week – Daytona Beach, FL


MARCH 2008

Mar 9th Daylight Savings Time Ends – Spring forward! Don’t forget to set your clocks ahead 1 hour

Mar 17th HAPPY ST. PATRICK’S DAY! Don’t forget to wear something green when you rollout.

Mar 23rd HAPPY EASTER!

Mar 29th Blessing of the Bikers – Woodbridge, VA A great start to a blessed riding season on the last Saturday of March. Join us at Veteran’s Park in Woodbridge VA. Coffee & Donuts at 10:00, Service at 10:45, Lunch at Featherstone Square at 12:00. Donations, collected by the Renegade Girls, will go to Children’s Charity. 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

APRIL 2008

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 24th – 27th Outer Banks Bike Week – Outer Banks, NC www.outerbanksbikeweek.com

MAY 2008

May 5th Cinco De Mayo

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

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

May 17th Armed Forces Day – Support Our Troops!

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

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!

JUNE 2008

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

Jun 14th Flag Day – Fly those colors proudly!

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 22nd Bike Night at the Ballfi eld: 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, Best of Show also gets fi rst 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

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

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

JULY 2008

July 4th Independence Day – Happy 232nd Birthday America!

July 16th – 20th West Virginia State HOG Rally – Canaan Valley, WV

July 16th Ride To Work Day – Every City in the U.S.

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

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

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

AUGUST 2008

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

SEPTEMBER 2008

Sept 1st Labor Day

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

OCTOBER 2008

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

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

NOVEMBER 2008

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

Nov 11th Veterans Day

Nov 27th Thanksgiving – Happy Turkey Day!

DECEMBER 2008

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

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 6THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 6

The Wall: 25th AnniversaryThe Wall: 25th Anniversaryby Leah Walker Unfortunately, we missed the police escorted rides and opening ceremonies. I feel however, our timing was per-fect in the folks we met and the hands we shook. I had never been. Had dreamed, growing up in Cali, of riding it all the way; had pictured it in my minds eye for years just how it would be, where we would stop off to camp, the people we would ride with, all of it, but it never materialized for me. So here I am now, in 2007, the 25th anniversary of its inception, experiencing something so powerful, so deep within that words fail to capture its magnitude… We rode the Metro in from Vienna and got off at the Mall, Foggy Bottom, 23rd and I St.’s. I had never ridden a train until now. We walked the few blocks down to the Wall, shaking hands of our fi ne American heroes, tak-ing in the vast history in this place, checking out the few vendors with patches and pins of military service, military history for sale, and reading names. So many names! 58,258 young men and women on that Wall… As we joined in the line to inch our way along the cor-ridor this crowd of a few thousand grew more quietly refl ective as we listened to the non stop reading of the names of our Heroes past who gave all, the ultimate price one can pay for another in their selfl ess sacrifi ce for this nation, for us. I began reading names early on, and with each panel I passed the emotions within me continued to intensify until when I fi nally spoke out a small “thank you”, the tears came rolling out. I realized in hearing my voice just how inadequate I have always felt whenever I tried to thank a Vet and now that seemed to be magnifi ed. I wanted to sit right next to that Wall of endless names and cry it all out of me. I felt it would show just a portion of how truly grateful I am in having the privilege to show honor and respect for my Heroes. I knew the tears were ok and I did leave a small token, just a trinket really but an object I had carried in my leather for years that was dear to me but oh, I wanted to give, to do so much more. This experience has touched me like nothing before. It is something I will never forget, nor will I ever neglect. I will ride in Rolling Thunder, I will give to our Vets in varying capacities, I will continue to show my appreciation, honor and much earned respect to our men and women who have and do now serve. I knelt down to clean off and photograph a plaque set in the concrete,( and to get an unthinking foreigner’s foot removed), and to my shock and appreciation this small deed did not go unnoticed. I had paid no attention to my surroundings really, being so caught up in the emotions of this place, but there are faithful Guard Dogs all around here. Wonderful loving Veterans who look after the care of their brothers in arms etched upon these stone monu-ments. I was approached by William DeBlander ‘Bill’ of Rolling Thunder Virginia chapter 3, and his friend John after I had noticed them checking us out for a small time, and to my amazement, Bill thanked me for wiping off the plaque. I assured him it was my privilege to do so and that the guy

with his foot so disrespectfully standing on it had pissed me off ( actually I was quite proud of me for handling this with so much tact). Bill gave me his biz card and shared that he, and I am sure others, come once a month and wash the Wall. Wow, what love, reminded me of Jesus washing the feet of His friends in service to them. So, 25 years, every single month… this has been done 300 times by November 2007. We walked about 5 miles in all, in riding boots no less and experienced the Refl ecting Pool, the Lincoln monu-ment, the many people and various back patches all in unity, the bronze soldiers statues, and a wide variety of other “characters”. I say this in good care, as all here came to show respect and gratitude. There is a new museum in the makings to house all the memorabilia left by friends and loved ones, and the car on display at the Wall is sponsored or owned by the Viet-nam Veterans Memorial Fund, Thomas R. Pease, 1st Air Cavalry Division, and has the names painted onto it. Ray Saikus who also gave us his card shared that the gov’t is building a ten story “peace” building that will over-shadow the grounds of the Mall as well as the Wall. On our way back to the train station a lady approached us since my sweety had his 82nd Airborn shirt on. Her son is currently serving his second tour in Afghanistan with the 2/508th PIR division of the 82nd. It was very moving to see her hug John in a familiar embrace and for a short time this day, her son was home… We also missed a lot due to those biker- booted blis-tered feet, but we will be back next May. Many thanks with love to all our Veterans.


A Different Christmas PoemThe embers glowed softly, and in their dim light, l gazed round the room and I cherished the sight. My wife was asleep, her head on my chest, my daughter beside me, angelic in rest. Outside the snow fell, a blanket of white, transforming the yard to a winter delight. The sparkling lights in the tree, I believe, completed the magic that was Christmas Eve. My eyelids were heavy, my breathing was deep, secure and surrounded by love I would sleep. In perfect contentment, or so it would seem, so I slumbered, perhaps I started to dream. The sound wasn’t loud, and it wasn’t too near, but I opened my eyes when it tickled my ear. Perhaps just a cough, I didn’t quite know, then the sure sound of footsteps outside in the snow. My soul gave a tremble, I struggled to hear, and I crept to the door just to see who was near. Standing out in the cold and the dark of the night, a lone fi gure stood, his face weary and tight, A soldier, I puzzled, some twenty years old, perhaps a Marine, huddled here in the cold. Alone in the dark, he looked up and smiled, standing watch over me, and my wife and my child. “What are you doing?” I asked without fear, “Come in this moment, it’s freezing out here! Put down your pack, brush the snow from your sleeve, you should be at home on a cold Christmas Eve!” For barely a moment I saw his eyes shift, away from the cold and the snow blown in drifts to the window that danced with a warm fi re’s light. Then he sighed and he said “it’s really all right, “I’m out here by choice. I’m here every night.” “It’s my duty to stand at the front of the line, that separates you from the darkest of times. No one had to ask or beg or implore me, “I’m proud to stand here like my fathers before me. My Gramps died at ‘Pearl on a day in Decem-ber,” Then he sighed, “That’s a Christmas ‘Gram always remembers.” My dad stood his watch in the jungles of ‘Nam’, and now it is my turn and so, here I am. I’ve not seen my own son in more than a while, but my wife sends me pictures, he’s sure got her smile. Then he bent and he carefully pulled from his bag, the red, white, and blue... an American fl ag. “I can live through the cold and the be-ing alone, away from my family, my house and my home. I can stand at my post through the rain and the sleet. I can sleep in a foxhole with little to eat. I can carry the weight of killing another, or lay down my life with my sister and brother. Who stand at the front against any and all, to ensure for all time that this fl ag will not fall, so go back in-side,” he said, “harbor no fright, your family is waiting and I’ll be all right.” “But isn’t there something I can do, at the least, Give you money, I asked, or prepare you a feast? IT seems all too little for all that you’ve done, For being away from your wife and your son,” Then his eye welled a tear that held no regret, “Just tell us you love us, and never forget. To fi ght for our rights back at home while we’re gone, to stand your own watch, no matter how long. For when we come home, either standing or dead, To know you remember we fought and we bled, is payment enough, and with that we will trust, that we mattered to you as you mattered to us.”


This Wind Chill Chart is provided to help deter-mine how cold you will feel on a motorcycle even in warm tem-peratures with a slight breeze. The wind chill factor is a measure of how fast heat is being removed from your body. For example, if the air temperature is 40 de-grees and you are riding at 20 miles per hour, it feels the same as 20 de-grees with no speed at all. So, be sure to dress appropriately so you can enjoy your ride!

CHILL OUT!CHILL OUT!


October 20, 2007, riders from Shenandoah Harley Da-vidson headed south to Charlotte NC and the Carolinas Aviation Museum to meet with fellow veterans and riders for a Military Appreciation event. The fund raiser event, sponsored by the North Carolina USO and Steamer’s Sports Pub, was to pay tribute to PFC “Mike” Raymond Clausen and the restoration of the CH-46D Sea Knight helicopter that Mike had christened “Blood,Sweat and Tears” during Vietnam. Clausen, a Congressional Medal of Honor recipient from Poncatoula LA., was awarded the medal for entering a mine fi eld and recovering 6 other Marines on January 31, 1970 in Viet Nam. The details of the events on that January day have been recorded by the writings of Clausen’s Commanding Offi cer and Pilot of “BS&T” Lt. Col. Ledbetter and Valley resident Ed West. Ed was 1 of the Marines who after stepping on a mine, PFC Clausen entered the mine fi eld and carried to him to the safety of the Sea Knight helicopter that Lt. Col. Ledbetter had carefully placed the landing gear in the craters of discharged land mines in the fi eld. BS&T was in service thru the Vietnam era until recently in Iraq when it sustained major damage and is now being restored by the museum to honor all those that served during the time period that Mike’s aircraft was in service. Last Oct. 6, 2006 Shenandoah H-D did a benefi t ride for LCPL Jason Redifer, a local Marine who was killed in Iraq in 2005. Jason, in his youth, was a Cub Scout in Ed West’s Scout Troop in Stuarts Draft. Jason’s death on Jan. 31 was exactly 25 years from that day in the mine fi eld in Viet Nam when Ed was severely injured by a mine. For the detailed stories of these heroic men and BS&T see: www.carolinesaviation.org and The Ponchatoule Times January 18 2007 issue.~ Garth Hinz ~

Blood, Sweat And TearsBlood, Sweat And Tears

From Left: Dave Davis, Eric Henderson, Tom Burns, Al Clausen, From Left: Dave Davis, Eric Henderson, Tom Burns, Al Clausen, Bob Ladd (standing), (trike) Chip Foster & Carolyn Coburn.Bob Ladd (standing), (trike) Chip Foster & Carolyn Coburn.


Blood, Sweat And Tears

Sunset at the North Pole


by Roma Frye

I am not a rider, but the respect I have for those men and women who are, is enormous. The week of Orphan Run was a dismal week – the forecast called for rain, everyday, all week long, and that is exactly what hap-pened.

All of us at Orphan Helpers had worked hard in preparing for the 3rd An-nual Orphan Run...A Reason to Ride. We

were looking forward to the amazing sight of hundreds of riders coming through the gates of Colonial Hills Estate. Located in Williamsburg at the site of the last three rides, Colonial Hills Estate is 42 acres of beautiful pristine prop-erty owned by Steve and Mary Ward. Ward, an Orphan Helpers’ supporter and avid rider, came up with the idea of the ride several years ago to benefi t the orphaned kids of Central America, the kids Orphan Helpers works with. “God gave me and Mary this wonderful place and we wanted to use it to give something back.”

Saturday morning October 27 arrived. The weather was still dismal (it was raining when I got up), but the forecast called for a break by mid-morning. And that is exactly what happened: the rain stopped, the clouds parted and the weather was absolutely beautiful. We did not have the hundreds of bikers we had hoped for or prepared for, but those who came, came because they had a reason to ride – Orphan Run. To us, the ride was a success. We would like to thank those avid riders who braved the elements and chose to support our cause. The $2,000 raised will go directly to benefi t the orphaned, abused and incarcer-ated children of Central America. Orphan Helpers con-tinually works with 1,200 children in 12 centers throughout El Salvador and Honduras.

The ride staged at three different locations: Bayside Harley-Davidson, Hampton Roads Harley-Davidson, and Richmond Harley-Davidson. The riders followed three one-hour scenic routes through Virginia’s countryside to Williamsburg.

So many people volunteered in so many different ways! Our immense thanks go to Harrell Cook of Big Daddy’s BBQ and his staff for donating the best barbeque you will ever eat. And we are not kidding! To Dean Sculthorpe of UKROPS who once again donated all of the drinks and to Heather Drewery of York Awards whose trophies and plaques were a huge hit and very sought after. The band Square 1 provided some excellent tunes for this year’s event. And to the hundreds of business throughout Hamp-ton Roads, we thank you for your generosity in providing the prizes and gift certifi cates that were given away. This

A Reason to Ride A Reason to Ride year, Chris Rokententz of Audio Visual Solutions donated two fl at screen television sets for the live auction...a huge success. Without each of these key players, this event would not have been possible.

There is a saying in baseball – three strikes and you’re out. But we don’t believe this. We have decided to do it again next year. The 4th Annual Orphan Run – A Reason to Ride will be held Saturday, October 25 with a rain date of Sunday, October 26. One of those days is bound to be beautiful and the amazing sight of seeing hundreds of bik-ers riding to support our cause will come true. Let’s Ride to Change Their Lives...and Yours.


In honor of October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Phyllis Wall, knowing the generosity of the motorcycle com-munity, wanted to organize a fund raising event. She pulled together a volunteer committee and planning “Ride For Pink 2007” to benefi t The Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) began. The event was scheduled to take place on Sunday, 7 October, 2007. The committee had eight short weeks to pull together things such as location, entertainment, corporate sponsorship, advertising, police escort approval, etc. But they were up to the challenge.Phyllis went to work to get the word out to the community through the media. The event received some free spots and some highly discounted spots on local radio stations. There was a free community TV spot secured. The TV station coordinator suggested getting ten or so motorcycles together for background. Phyllis was able to motivate over thirty rid-ers! Even the local paper picked up the story. All of these activities created quite a buzz for the event.Everyone on the committee went to work to gather dona-tions of valuable auction items, corporate sponsorship, police escort approval, and enlist volunteers to work the day of the event. Phyllis was able to secure the crown jewel of the event, a 2007 XL 883 Sportster! It was offered by Bayside Harley Davidson to the event at a highly discounted price. The motorcycle, to be auctioned off at the event, was put on display at the event venue, Knuckleheads Roadhouse. When the pink raffl e tickets went on sale, they sold them-selves! When the day of the event arrived, the expenses had already been covered by donations and ticket sales. We entered the day with $6,000 in proceeds! We received unexpected media coverage at both the start of the police escorted ride and at the end venue. It was in response to the sad passing of Congresswomen Jo Ann Davis the day before. Congress-women Davis lost her two year battle with breast cancer. It just reinforced what we were doing this for.With the small army of volunteers in place, motorcycles

began to roll in to register for the ride. While waiting for the parade to begin, people were able to purchase an event t-shirt. The donated twelve dozen shirts SOLD OUT! The parade left Bayside Harley Davidson at 11:45am sharp. It went on a direct highway route to Knuckleheads Roadhouse. It was a perfect day for riding. We were able to capture the incredible sight of both the departure and arrival of the riders on video. There’s no greater sight than seeing over four hundred motorcycles riding together.The activities for the remainder of the day kept people active. There was a live band that played for a discounted rate. The auction was conducted by a professional auctioneer who donated his time. The bike show drew some very impres-sive motorcycles. There was one round of BINGO played for a chance to win a cash prize. There were cash donations pouring in by people who weren’t able to make the ride, but wanted to participate.Finally, it was time to hold the raffl e. With the sun blazing down on an unseasonably warm day, everyone gathered outside around the motorcycle. As ten tickets were drawn, the excitement grew. Each of the ten ticket holders was giv-en a key for a chance to start the motorcycle. One by one, they got on the motorcycle. One by one, they were elimi-nated. The crowd went wild with each elimination. 6-7-8, still nothing. The 9th person got up on the motorcycle. Would he be the one? YES! Rick Turner was the lucky winner! As Rick’s wife, Gay looked on with tears in her eyes, the crowd exploded with applause! It was a wonderful sight!By the end of the day, our exhausted committee had raised $25,500 to donate to the BCRF. There just aren’t enough words to truly express the feeling Phyllis, Michael Davis, Larry Becker, and I feel about how everyone responded to this event. It is overwhelming to see such an out pouring of help and support. We don’t give of ourselves because there is so much to be given, but because there is so much that is needed. Very humbly, we thank them all! “Volunteers aren’t faint at heart….they are ALL heart!” – Julie Becker

Ride For PinkRide For Pink


March of Dimes Benefi t Ride Harrisonburg, VA October 13, 2007by Garth HinzOn a clear and warm Saturday, AMVETS and fellow riders gath-ered for Harrisonburg’s Annual “March of Dimes” benefi t ride. This year’s Police escorted ride brought out 40 riders for a full day’s tour of scenic Madison and Albermarle Counties, through Gordensville, Palmyra, Scottsville and back to Harrisonburg for door prizes. This year’s ride brought in a total donation of $478 with help from sponsor Micheal Fletcher and an additional dona-tion from Chuck & Pat Wimer. The “March of Dimes” was established in 1938 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt under the name of National Founda-tion for Infantile Paralysis. FDR believed that people can solve any problem if they worked together. Hmm… Comedian Eddie Cantor, for the initial fund raising, coined the phrase “March of Dimes”, send your dimes to the White House. The Founda-tion changed it’s name to March of Dimes in 1979. Milestones in research include: vaccine for polio, PKU test, 1st successful bone marrow transplant, test confi rming the link between alcohol consumption and birth defects, 1st baby treated in the womb, diagnosis of sickle-cell anemia, tests for biotinidase defi ciency, and numerous other milestones reducing birth defects. Over 3 million people participate in various fund raisers across America for March of Dimes.


If you’ve got some “Hot Shot” pictures you’d like to share with us, please send them to thun-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. [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!All are welcome but please keep ‘em somewhat clean so everyone can enjoy!


Harrisonburg, VAby Garth HinzBlue Ridge Honda & Power Sports Harrisonburg, Va., held their annual Customer Appreciation Day October 14, ‘07. This years event was a round trip ride to Edinburg Gap via some of the Valley’s more scenic back roads and returning on Rt11 thru Mt. Jackson’s Fall Festival weekend. From there they went from New Market, past the Battlefi elds and into Harrisonburg to the Honda dealership. The riders had a real treat in store for them with some great music from the band Mozley Rose and a full course BBQ lunch catered by Hanks Smoke House. The straight-ahead Southern Rock tunes by Mozley Rose kept the crowed rollin as everybody settled in for great afternoon. They enjoyed shop-ping as well with all of the store specials that were going on for the day and lots of relaxing, as folks like to do after a couple of hours in the saddle. See www.blueridgepowersports.com , www.MozleyRose.com and www.hankssmokehouse.com for more info.

Customer Appreciation Day at Customer Appreciation Day at Blue Ridge Honda & Power SportsBlue Ridge Honda & Power Sports


Lobby Day

Once again Motorcycle Lobby Day is just around the corner. This year it will be held on Monday January 21, 2008. This is a holiday so many people are off. That morning Virginia Coalition of Motorcyclists lobbyists, as well as members of other state motorcycle rights organizations, independent motorcyclists and any other interested people will go to the Virginia General assembly to discuss upcoming legislation that affects mo-

torcyclists in Virginia with the delegates and senators who will decide whether the legislation passes or fails. On Sunday January 20, from 12:00 to 5:00 pm, Virginia Coalition of Motorcyclists lobbyists will lead an information meeting at the Holliday Inn Crossroads at 2000 Staples Mill Rd., Richmond, VA to discuss this year’s legislation affecting mo-torcyclists. We will also talk about how to talk to your legislators about these issues in case you have never done that. Later that evening attendees will enjoy homemade BBQ.On Monday the 21st we leave the Holiday Inn at 8:00 am sharp for our annual trip to the Capitol. After lobbying our legislators, we will attend the opening of the House of Delegates daily session and be recognized from the fl oor. Afterwards, The Law Offi ces of Tom McGrath takes everyone to Penny Lane Pub for lunch as a thank you from coming to support Virginia Motorcyclists. This year we are expecting numerous bills of interest to Virginia mo-torcyclists. We already know that there will be another bill to increase increases the penalty for any driver who kills another person due to violating their right of way. There will also be a bill to bring the penalty for any helmet violation in line with the penalty for failing to wear a seat belt. It would be a $25 civil penalty with no court costs. Currently a helmet ticket costs in excess of $75 with court costs. That is 3 times what an automobile driver pays for a seat belt violation. As always there will be numerous bills submitted at the last minute which will negatively affect motorcycling. As these bills are fi led we will be able to identify them and discuss them at lobby day so that we can convince the legislators why they are bad bills. Due to the increase in motorcycle fatalities in the past year, we are expecting a knee jerk reaction which will result in bills that will almost certainly do nothing to prevent motorcycle accidents but will restrict the rights and choices of Virginia motorcyclist. Those who have participated in Lobby Day in the past remember the bill that we killed such as the bill that would have required proof of insurance before one person could sell another person a motorcycle, even if the person buying the motorcycle had no intention of putting the bike on the road. We killed that one with the help of all of those who participated in last years lobby day. There was also the bill that would have classifi ed mopeds as motorcycles. Can you imagine what our crash statistics would be like if that passed?I encourage everyone who can to join us. It is a lot of fun, it is educa-tional, and most importantly it shows the legislators that motorcyclists are a signifi cant and active section of the electorate. For more information you can call VCOM at (800) 437-9434. For Room Reservations call (804)359-6061 and ask for the VCOM rate.

Matt Danielson


Hi, my name is John. Kelly and Beth have given me this op-portunity to share pictures of my ride with the Thunder Roads Family. Through the years I have had several scooters of vari-ous brands, makes and models, currently I ride a 1995 FLHTP I affectionately call “Babe”, named after “Babe the Big Blue Ox”. The bike was purchased from Easyriders in Greensboro, NC, where its fi rst owner was the Roanoke Rapids Police Depart-ment. I purchased it in May 2003 and at the time of purchase

it had 4,328 original miles, currently the odometer reads 49,354. In 2000 it was painted to the deep cobalt blue with black highlights, the tank emblems are from a 1962 HD better known as “The Gun Sight”, the hard bags were replaced with leather quick detachable bags and the back seat and back rest were added, otherwise it’s pretty much all OE. It has the original air-ride police seat, front and rear air shocks and is heck of comfortable on long distance rides. In

June 2006, my fi ancé and I rode from Virginia Beach, VA to Laguna Beach, CA and back. We traveled some 6,872 miles in 18 days through heavy rains, snow on the mountain passes, the freezing cold temperatures, high winds and the heat of the southwestern desert with temperatures reaching 115 degrees. The bike performed great with one “man” caused problem. We are looking forward to the next great adventure in a few years. You guys ride safe; enjoy life as much and as often as you can; keep your air-speed up and the rubber side down.

JohnJohn


This is the best “Dream-Come True” story ever…My name is Leah This is the best “Dream-Come True” story ever…My name is Leah and I am a Biker. My love of motorcycles began as a girl of 7 rid-and I am a Biker. My love of motorcycles began as a girl of 7 rid-ing on my daddy’s bikes. I used to feel so free riding with him. ing on my daddy’s bikes. I used to feel so free riding with him. When I was 10, he brought home a Honda 50 which I rode every When I was 10, he brought home a Honda 50 which I rode every day screaming those RPMs. I was fully addicted by 11 and made day screaming those RPMs. I was fully addicted by 11 and made friends with every kid in school who owned anything from dirt friends with every kid in school who owned anything from dirt bikes to mopeds. The next several years I schooled myself in the bikes to mopeds. The next several years I schooled myself in the

pages of Easyriders and Dave Mann and knew I’d discovered who I was born to be. By 12, my pages of Easyriders and Dave Mann and knew I’d discovered who I was born to be. By 12, my parents must have feared me hanging with this biker crowd, but never tried to change who I was parents must have feared me hanging with this biker crowd, but never tried to change who I was in heart. I appreciate the man my father was in showing his love and protection for his wayward in heart. I appreciate the man my father was in showing his love and protection for his wayward daughter all those years. I was proud at the respect my “friends” showed my fellow rider dad daughter all those years. I was proud at the respect my “friends” showed my fellow rider dad and because they did, his little girl could keep riding while now safe under their watchful eye. and because they did, his little girl could keep riding while now safe under their watchful eye. As the years passed, I dreamed my dreams of building a Shovelhead and riding my own. Dad As the years passed, I dreamed my dreams of building a Shovelhead and riding my own. Dad now owns a Goldwing, he and mom have become long distance riders, I have gone from teen now owns a Goldwing, he and mom have become long distance riders, I have gone from teen to adult to mother. I raised my kids on dirt bikes and rode with my boys those years. My young-to adult to mother. I raised my kids on dirt bikes and rode with my boys those years. My young-est son dreams of shovelheads and my oldest rides sport bikes, which are raw power and scare est son dreams of shovelheads and my oldest rides sport bikes, which are raw power and scare the crap out of me. I have a lot of respect for the guys and gals who ride them. In “04 I was in a the crap out of me. I have a lot of respect for the guys and gals who ride them. In “04 I was in a severe wreck that changed my life. While rehabbing I discovered the internet and met John. We severe wreck that changed my life. While rehabbing I discovered the internet and met John. We became great friends and since I was on the west coast and he on the east, had no real expec-became great friends and since I was on the west coast and he on the east, had no real expec-tations of meeting. Then he invited me to 2up coast to coast with him. I’d always dreamed of tations of meeting. Then he invited me to 2up coast to coast with him. I’d always dreamed of riding this and plan on riding my own bike coast to coast on my 50th birthday. We have put a few riding this and plan on riding my own bike coast to coast on my 50th birthday. We have put a few thousand miles on his bike and I fi nally realized I will likely never build a shovel. Then we started thousand miles on his bike and I fi nally realized I will likely never build a shovel. Then we started looking realistically at getting me my own HD and I thank my John for making that dream come looking realistically at getting me my own HD and I thank my John for making that dream come true when he made the deal on my Dyna last May. She is an ’02 FXDL and in the fi rst 2 months true when he made the deal on my Dyna last May. She is an ’02 FXDL and in the fi rst 2 months of ownership I put a little over 6ooo miles on her. I see no reason to change that pattern. I put of ownership I put a little over 6ooo miles on her. I see no reason to change that pattern. I put Screaming Eagle 2 series pipes on her and I love that she rumbles now. I’ve heard rumor Santa is Screaming Eagle 2 series pipes on her and I love that she rumbles now. I’ve heard rumor Santa is bringing forward controls for Christmas. Guess I’ve been a good girl this year. There is so much bringing forward controls for Christmas. Guess I’ve been a good girl this year. There is so much more I will do to personalize her but that will all come with time. shiney side up n 24/7 Jesusmore I will do to personalize her but that will all come with time. shiney side up n 24/7 Jesus

LeahLeah


By Holly Hoffl er

The Sherri Parker Memorial Poker Run & Bike Show was held on Sunday October 28, 2007. What a great day for friends, old and new, to come out and raise money for the Driver Volunteer Fire Department and the Sherri Parker Memorial Fund, Inc. and remem-ber a dear friend and sister. To some folks it was just another sunny Sunday to pull out their bikes and gather with friends for a ride and a good time. A day Sherri would love to be a part of. But to the friends and family of Sherri, it was a great way to remember someone who is terribly missed. Sherri was tragically killed by a hit and run driver while riding her Harley 14 years ago. Sherri grew up in Driver and she had a great love of life, her family and friends. She was warm and friendly and could make you feel comfortable the fi rst time you met her. This event has been the most incredible way to celebrate the life of someone who was giving to others. The poker run and parade had approximately 400 bikes. What an awesome show of support, not to mention the thunder of the bikes coming into Driver! We thank all of the individual riders that came as well as the strong support from local clubs. The bike show was incredible with Ronnie Schafer taking Best in Show with his special construction master-piece along with many other deserving winners in 10 categories of classes. The Sherri Parker Memorial Garden is located at the gateway into Driver. Thanks to the support from the biker community, the memo-rial garden is in bloom year round. Sherri would be happy to know we are supporting the Driver Volunteer Fire Department which is such an important and driving force in the community. We would like to give a special thanks to the law offi ce of Tom McGrath for the generous gift of turning the Sherri Parker Memorial Fund Inc., into a non profi t organization. This dream will be soon be a reality. We are very excited about moving forward and perhaps establishing a scholarship fund in Sherri’s memory. As Sherri’s twin sister, I thank all of our wonderful volunteers who came out and made the day so special. Many of these friends knew Sherri since childhood and rode with her for many years. We love you all and couldn’t do it without you. Thanks to Eddie Boyce for helping me make this such a great way to remember Sherri. We cannot begin to express our thanks once again to the biker community. Your hearts are so giving. We thank you all for coming out and supporting us and we hope to see you all next year !!! Ride safe.

Sherry Parker Memorial RideSherry Parker Memorial Ride


Sherry Parker Memorial Ride

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MICHIGAN LEGISLATURE PASSES HELMET LAW RE-PEAL, BILL GOES TO GOVERNOR A helmet law repeal bill has passed both houses of Michigan’s state legislature, and proponents are mounting an intense lobbying effort aimed at Governor Jennifer Granholm who vetoed a simi-lar measure last year citing safety concerns. This year’s version, House Bill 4749, was approved by the Senate by a vote of 23-15, and by the House 69-39, and is similar to a bill passed by both chambers last year but with an opt-out clause designed to allow qualifi ed riders to purchase a per-mit allowing them to ride without a helmet. The law would allow riders over 21 to purchase a $100 one-year state permit or a $200 three-year permit. The rider must carry at least $20,000 in insurance to pay fi rst-party medical ben-efi ts in the event of an accident, have been licensed for at least two years to operate a motorcycle or have completed a motorcycle safety course. Riders who do not purchase a permit and ride without helmets face a fi ne of up to $300. “Modernizing Michigan’s outdated helmet law will bring in much-needed revenue, jobs and investments,” said Jim Rhoades, legislative director of ABATE of Michigan. “We urge the governor to put aside her personal objections to modernizing Michigan’s helmet law.” ABATE of Michigan and the Confederation of Clubs of Michigan are among the groups that support the bill, arguing that helmets offer little protection and hurt tourism, and pointing out that revenue from the sales of permits would generate an estimated $15-20 million a year for the cash-strapped state. State Rep. Barbara Farrah, D-Southgate, who sponsored the bill, said 30 other states, including all of Michigan’s neigh-bors, allow some form of helmet-free riding, giving them an edge over Michigan in attracting tourism dollars from out-of-state motorcyclists. The governor will have 14 days to sign or veto the bill when it hits her desk, or let it become law without taking any action, but proponents of the legis-lation intend to further lobby the governor for her support before sending the bill to her offi ce. Concerned riders are being urged to contact Governor Granholm at (517) 335-7858 and request that she sign HB 4749 into law.

FEDS ANNOUNCE CAMPAIGN TO CURB RIDER FA-TALITIES To combat the rising trend of motorcycle inju-ries and fatalities, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Mary E. Peters recently announced a comprehensive new federal initiative to improve motorcycle safety with more rider edu-cation and training, tougher standards for helmet certifi ca-tion labeling, law enforcement training, and road designs that consider motorcycle dynamics. Secretary Peters – an avid motorcyclist herself – also released a television public service announcement promoting rider safety and use of personal protective gear, referring to her own crash on a two-lane highway near Tucson in 2005 when she suffered a broken collarbone. Peters said the motorcycle safety initiative will create new national safety and training stan-dards for novice riders, curb counterfeit helmet labeling so that consumers can be certain they are buying DOT-certi-fi ed helmets, place new focus on motorcycle-specifi c road

improvements, and provide training to law enforcement offi cers on how to spot unsafe motorcyclists. In addition, Peters said, the plan includes a broad public awareness campaign – including the PSA - on safe riding techniques. NHTSA TO EVALUATE STATE MOTORCYCLE SAFETY PROGRAMS The National Highway Traffi c Safety Admin-istration (NHTSA) recently announced plans to conduct a survey of State Motorcycle Safety Administrators and/or State Highway Safety Offi ces in all 50 States and the Dis-trict of Columbia to gather data on state-level motorcycle safety programs. The study will use the State Motorcycle Safety Administrator and State Highway Safety Offi ce sur-vey to gather comprehensive data on what each of the 50 States and the District of Columbia are doing to promote and ensure safe riding behavior. HONDA BAGS SAFETY AWARD Honda engineers were honored for their contributions to the development of vehi-cle safety systems at the 20th International Technical Con-ference on the Enhanced Safety of Vehicles held earlier this year in Lyon, France. Honda development engineer Satoshi Iijima was recognized at the safety conference for his research into motorcycle crash safety and the develop-ment of new devices, including the fi rst motorcycle airbag system. His team began their research into motorcycle airbags in 1990, and Honda’s fl agship tourer, the GL1800 Gold Wing, in 2006 became the fi rst production model to be equipped with this airbag system. The conference is one of the leading forums attended by researchers, engi-neers and government offi cials at which vehicle safety is discussed. Other topics discussed at this year’s event in-cluded lighting systems for improved motorcycle visibility. SURVEY FINDS MAJORITY OF MOTORCYCLE OWN-ERS AT HIGH RISK FOR THEFT Motorcycle theft rates are at their highest levels nationwide, and continue on the rise. According to the most recent fi gures by the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), 71,523 motorcycles were stolen in 2006, and motorcycle theft has risen a full 137 percent since the year 2000. LoJack Corporation in coop-eration with the NICB conducted an online “Fitness Test” geared to gauge the risk of theft for motorcycle enthusiasts, and found that a full 67 percent of motorcycle owners who responded to the survey are at a high risk for theft. The 10-question Motorcycle Theft Prevention Fitness Test con-ducted over the summer revealed that the majority of the respondents were at a high risk for theft because they are not taking necessary precautions, such as securing their bike to an immovable object when parked in a lot or ga-rage, and arming their bikes with theft deterrents (alarms, kill switches, etc.) and recovery systems. Respondents did score well, however, when it came to applying good common sense theft protection measures, such as parking in a concealed area at home, parking in a well lit area in a garage/parking lot, and never leaving keys on the their parked bike. “As this survey showed, motorcycle

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owners need to step up their theft protection measures in order to keep their bikes safe,” said Patrick Clancy, Vice President of Law Enforcement, LoJack Corporation. “Unfortunately, using good common sense is not enough to protect bikes from today’s clever thieves, who typi-cally know just which bikes they want and how to steal them.” LoJack and NICB have developed a booklet en-titled “Get in the Know” that details the steps owners can take to protect their motorcycles from being stolen. The two nationally recognized authorities on vehicle theft and prevention have also launched a joint education initiative called the Vehicle Theft Protection Program to help own-ers protect their assets from theft, and began their cam-paign by designating July, the highest vehicle theft month of the year, as National Vehicle Theft Protection Month.

PRINCE CHARLES RESCUES CRASHED BIKER Brit-ish royal Prince Charles has been praised for stopping to help a motorcyclist who plunged 15 feet off a mountain road in Scotland. The Prince of Wales was en route to his private retreat in Scotland when he witnessed motorcy-clist Hugh Simpson skid on gravel and drive off a steep bank. The Prince immediately stopped his Land Rover and instructed his bodyguards, who are all trained fi rst-aiders, to help Simpson who sustained a broken wrist and foot. Simpson, 52, says, “I cannot thank Prince Charles enough. He asked his protection offi cers to come to my assistance. They were very good.” CHINA SOUTH DECLARED WORLD’S LARGEST MO-TORCYCLE MAKER According to Chinese news agency Xinhua, China’s state-owned automotive company China South has emerged as the world’s largest motorcycle producer with an annual production capacity of fi ve mil-lion units. The company’s products are sold in over 100 countries under the brands Jialing, Jianshe, Dayang and Jinan Qingqi. China South is a state-owned enterprise under the management of the “state council of the Chi-nese cabinet” and is involved in the military and national defense industries. According to the report, the assets and sales of China South are in excess of $12.66 billion. China expects to make 21 million two wheelers a year by 2010, up from 17 million in 2005, while the world’s second largest motorcycle market in India expects to pro-duce 15 million motorbikes a year in 2010, up from 6.7 million in 2005. By comparison, Americans own around 7 million motorcycles and buy just over 1 million new bikes per year. American motorcycle manufacturer Harley-Da-vidson produced about 350,000 motorcycles last year. VIETNAM TO IMPLEMENT HELMET LAW Vietnam has one of the world’s highest traffi c fatality rates, with 14,000 deaths recorded last year – most involving the ubiquitous motorbike, which constitutes over 90% of the vehicles in this country of 85 million people who own one million cars but upwards of 20 million motorbikes, and only 3% wear helmets. The roads are also some of the

most hazardous on earth. Few drivers look before pull-ing into traffi c. Speeding, weaving, underage driving and drunken driving are common. Vietnam’s traffi c fatality rate is about 27 per 100,000 – nearly double that of the United States and among the highest in the world, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Few people bother with helmets, saying they are hot, bulky and unfashion-able. But by January 1, everyone will be required to don the so-called “rice cookers” as the government enforces a new law intended to save lives. But enforcement won’t be easy. When Vietnam tried to impose a helmet law in 2001, angry riders protested and the government backed down after the law was deemed unenforceable. Instead, the law made helmets compulsory only on highways, though many still ignore the law with fi nes the equivalent of $1.25 lev-ied against violators. Government offi cials are discussing whether to raise the fi ne when the new law kicks in. Of-fi cials have even resorted to airing graphic television com-mercials to promote compliance with the law, but the im-ages of dead and dying motorcyclists does little to convince most motorbike commuters in Hanoi, who say they will only abide this time if forced. “Wearing helmets in cities is ridicu-lous,” said Nguyen Tung Anh, 21, a student in Hanoi. “It will reduce drivers’ vision, hearing and it is not suitable for the weather conditions here.” The effort to force riders to strap on helmets is being bolstered by a WHO-supported project that will channel $860,000 into Vietnam for prevention pro-grams focusing in part on increasing the use of motorcycle helmets. The WHO project is part of a two-year, $9 million grant made by the Bloomberg Family Foundation in 2007 to implement measures to reduce traffi c deaths and injuries in countries around the world. Prevention programs will be pi-loted in Mexico and Vietnam, with a focus on increasing the use of motorcycle helmets, seat-belts and child restraints; reducing drunk-driving; and improving the visibility of pe-destrians, cyclists and motorcyclists. NEWS OF THE WEIRD: MALAYSIAN MOTORCYCLIST KILLED BY LIGHTNING WHILE TALKING ON CELL PHONE A Malaysian man who was talking on a mobile phone while riding his motorcycle was killed when struck by a bolt of lightning, according to news reports from Kuala Lumpur. The man, 39, was believed to have lodged the phone between his ear and helmet and was speaking on the phone when the lightning struck. Passersby said he was thrown from the motorcycle after being struck by the bolt, the New Straits Times daily reported. The victim was immediately sent to a nearby hospital in the southern Ser-emban city, but was pronounced dead on arrival, a police spokesman was quoted as saying. Police are investigating the accident. QUOTABLE QUOTE: “Morality cannot be legislated but be-havior can be regulated. Judicial decrees may not change the heart, but they can restrain the heartless.”U.S. Supreme Court Justice Hugo Black (1886-1971)


WORTH A SHOT .......... Every month, we’re going to recommend a brand NEW item at your grocer’s, that we feel is “worth a shot” and de-served of your consideration and taste buds. We don’t receive any kick for the endorsement, we just want to make your life easier and tastier. These are all products that have been sampled for, most importantly, their taste; but also their portions, simplicity in preparation, and they must be cost friendly. PHILADELPHIA READY-TO-EAT CHEESECAKE FILLING - This “stuff” is yummy, rich and delicious. Runs apprx. $1.79 per tub and just let your imagination run wild for it’s uses. Here’s a quickie if you need a luscious dessert super fast that tastes like it took a bit of time. Pick up an Oreo Pre-made Pie Crust in the foil tin, add to it 3 tubs of the Philly Ready-To-Eat Cheesecake Filling and top it off with a bag of Mini Oreo cookies all over the top. Chill to set and it’s ready to dig in. Now...how fast was that!

CHOCOLATE CANDY CANE COOKIES1 Pkg. (8 oz.) Philly Brand Cream Cheese, softened3/4 Cup (1-1/2) Sticks Butter, softened1 Cup of Sugar or Baking Splenda2 Tsp. Real Vanilla2-1/2 Cups Flour1/2 tsp. Baking Soda4 Squares Semi-Sweet Baking Chocolate, melted1 Pkg. Premium White Baking Chocolate12 Hard Peppermint Candies, crushedreheat oven to 350 degrees. Beat cream cheese, butter,sugar and vanilla w/ electric mixer on high until well blended. Gradu-ally add fl our & baking soda; mix well. Blend in semi-sweet chocolate. Shape spoonfuls of dough into 52 balls. Roll each ball into 3-inch-long rope. Place, 2 inches apart on sprayed & lightly fl oured baking sheet, shaping/bending top of each rope slightly to resemble a candy cane shape. Bake 12 min. or until lightly browned; cool 5 min. on bak-ing sheet. Transfer to wire rack; cool completely. Microwave white chocolate as directed on pkg. and drizzle melted white chocolate back and forth over all cookies. Sprinkle with crushed candies. Let stand until chocolate is fi rm. Serve w/ hot cocoa w/ mini-marshmallows for a real treat!

SUPER QUICK HOLIDAY PHILLY CHEESY PIZZA DIP1 Pkg. Philly Cream Cheese, softened1/2 Cup Pizza Sauce1 Cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese

2 Tbls. Grated Parmesan Cheese1 Can of Italian-Style Diced Tomatoes1 Tbls. of Italian DressingSpread cream cheese onto microwaveable 9-inch pie plate. Cover with pizza sauce; top w/ remaining ingredients. Nuke on High 2 mins. Serve w/ Ritz crackers and dig in! Christmas colors and delish too!

2-MINUTE PIMIENTO CHEESE SPREAD1 Bag (8 oz.) Shredded Cheddar Cheese1/3 Cup Mayonnaise or Miracle Whip (your call)4 oz. Jar of Diced Pimientos, drainedDash of Worcestershire Sauce Dash of Whole MilkMix well and refrigerate until serve. Simple!

EASY, BREEZY, CHEESY BUFFALO CHICKEN DIP 1 Pkg. Philly Cream Cheese, softened1-1/2 cups of fi nely chopped cooked chicken (look at the end of your grocer’s meat section for great packaged cooked chicken cubes in a variety of grilled or roasted, garlic or plain.) 1/2 Cup Roka Blue Cheese Dressing 1/2 Cup Buffalo Wing Sauce2 Stalks of Celery, fi nely choppedMicrowave on High 5 mins. or until cream cheese is melted and is heated through, stirring after 3 mins. Serve piping hot w/ Keebler Butter crackers. Super!

CHILI & VELVEETA CON QUESO DIP 1 Box of Velveeta Cheese, cut into cubes1 Can of Ro-Tel Diced Tomatoes & Green Chilies, undrained1 Can of Chili – Beans or No-Beans, your callMix together in a microwaveable bowl. Nuke on High 5 mins. until Velveeta is completely melted, stirring after 3 mins. Serve with extra large crispy Tortilla chips. Olay

ALWAYS A HIT..... HOLIDAY JELLY BALLS1 Bag of Pre-made Italian Meatballs1 Large Bottle of Grape Jelly1 Large Bottle of Apple JellyThrow it all into a crock-pot. Turn it on low and let it go about an hour and it’s ready and they taste incredible. The meatballs absorb all the sauce. So Flavorful!


The morning of Saturday October 13, 2007 dawned with a typical fall chill in the air, but with the promise of a 70 degree day it would turn out to be a perfect day for the 4th Annual running of DJ’s Victory Junction Ride.Victory Junction is a camp located in Randleman, North Carolina. The camp was founded by Kyle and Patti Petty in memory of their son Adam and built on land donated by Richard and Lynda Petty. Victory Junction Camp is a camp for children ages 7 to 15 who have chronic medi-cal conditions or serious illnesses that would otherwise be unable to have this type of experience. The staff at Victory Junction is all volunteer, and the camp operates solely on donations and gifts; there is no cost or charges for children to attend camp.I arrived at the staging area just before 11 AM and there were about 50 to 75 riders already on hand. At fi rst, ride organizers feared that the cold start to the day would reduce the turn-out, however at the appointed hour of twelve o-clock, event founder, David “DJ” Joyce. gave the pre-ride safety briefi ng, a moment of prayer was led by Mr. Mike “Soybean” Boulding, and the National Anthem was sung by Ms. Jennie Minter. Then the com-mand was given to one hundred and seven bikes to gear up and “start your engines”. As we made the turn into the main gate of the camp, we wound our way along into the NASCAR themed camp, passed the seven acre Victory Junction Lake, through a tunnel, crossed the starting line, around buildings, and rode past a large crowd of waving, cheering, and smil-ing campers, crew, and family before coming to a halt in front of the Fuel Stop dining hall.For the next half hour or so it was hard to tell who was having the most fun – the campers or the bikers. Discus-sions were held on who liked what bikes, which was fast-est, loudest, or just plain “neatest”. Campers got to sit on bikes, blow the horns and, if only for a brief moment, imagine the thrill of riding a motorcycle that most of us have come to take for granted.All too quickly our time with the kids drew to a close and as much as we would have loved to stay longer, both the campers and the bikers had other places to go and things to do that day. So once again we rallied the troops and headed off to the Richard Petty Museum, but not before getting a fi rst class send off from the campers and making memories that will last a lifetime.At the Richard Petty Museum, we were all treated to a top notch lunch and given ample time to take in the sights at the museum. As the event began to wind down, drawings were held for door prizes, and the prize for the rider who traveled the farthest to participate was award-ed to Mr. Keith Johnson of Madison Heights Virginia. When all was said and done, a grand total of $2528.00 was raised for the camp.If you’re looking for a great ride, good company, a very worthwhile cause, and some memories you’ll carry with you forever, then come join us in 2008 for the next Vic-tory Junction ride.To learn more about Victory Junction, please visit www.victoryjunction.org

Victory Junction Victory Junction

Club DirectoryClub DirectoryABATE of Virginia welcomes all riders to join in the fi ght 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 Coalfi eld 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 countiesmeets 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 fi rst 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 1pm every 1st and 3rd Sunday at Moose Lodge # 1119, 2307 60th St, Hampton VA 23661. Everyone welcome. For more info contact Donald Cournoyer, 757-723-2019 or [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 GroupMeets 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month. 7:30 pmOverseer: Rich “Sluggo” Segarra [email protected] www.armyofthelordva.org

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

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

Bikers with Heart Foundation, Inc. 501 ©3 Non-Profi t Organization, National Fallen Biker Memorial Weekend, P.O. Box 291 Bryantown, MD 20617, Offi ce: (301) 893-2900 Email: [email protected] Website: www.fi reupthundrout.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 RoadsMeets 4th Wed every month 7 pm, 110 Kempsville Rd, Chesapeake, VAClub President – Susan Taylor (757) [email protected]://members.bellatlantic.net/~vze4sw29/bkva5.htm

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

Blue Knights Law Enforcement MC/VA VIIIMeets on 1st Wed at the Charlottesville FOP Lodge Info: Willie Barnett (804) 589-1824

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

Blue Knights Law Enforcement MC/VA XIIIDanville, Virginia meets on 13th of every monthClub 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 fi rst 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-DCastaways 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

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 Offi cer [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] 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 VFD7814 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 2307Lakeside 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 Winfi eld 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 fi rst 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 Offi cer @ [email protected]. Paul King, Second Offi cer @ [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 Offi cer, (434) 531-5820 or Pete Avellone at (434) 531-7916

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

Star Touring & Riding Chapter 1885461 Virginia Beach Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA 23462 http://vbstar.mav.net email:[email protected], contact Lisa Laufer @ (757) 646-6738 or (757)[email protected]

Star Touring & Riding Chapter 208 - Richmond, VaMeets the 3rd Thursday each month, check the website for more info.http://startouring.org/chapter208/ Contact: Bob Gagne (804)458-4759 [email protected]

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

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

Virginia Bikers Association Inc.P. O. Box 1591, Hillsville, VA 24343, www.vabikersassoc.org, email: [email protected]

Virginia Freedom RidersP O Box 1387, Suffolk, VA 23439-1387 www.vfr.race.com President: Bernie AdamsEmail: [email protected] Membership Offi cer: Sandy Cartwright email: [email protected]

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

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

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

Women on Wheelswww.womenonwheels.org NOW FORMING VA CHAPTER Call (800) 322-1969 or email: [email protected]



Road Rat Ronnie, Full Patch member of Pathfinders MC, presents plaques to businesses who supported the Path Finder’s MC’s 2nd Annual Bash.

Left: Road Rat Ronnie. Center: Susan of Left: Road Rat Ronnie. Center: Susan of Sportsman Lounge. Next to her: Nasty Sportsman Lounge. Next to her: Nasty Norman of Booze Fighters MC. Norman of Booze Fighters MC.

JUST FOR THE RECORD…

In our September 2007 issue of Thunder Roads, we had printed a human interest story in our Proud To Be An American Pages that involved 3 U.S. Marines who were having custom bikes built by a bike shop down in Florida called Darkside Chariots. One of the Marines had contacted me initially to tell me about the build for him & his friends & with our Thunder Roads network being so extremely supportive of our military, decided to run it. After that issue hit the streets, I received inquiries as to whether or not we were somehow affi liated with Darkside Chariots & I want to make it perfectly clear that we ARE NOT.We do our best to check out the accuracy & legitimacy of the stories that are presented for submission into our magazine. If at anytime there are personal circumstances that arise between individuals & the businesses that we may have run an article on, I just wanted to clarify that we report only on the facts that were received for the article. We do not become involved in any personal confl ict or legal actions of either side that may come about. Furthermore, Thunder Roads Mid-Atlantic and/or the entire Thunder Roads network IS NOT affi liated with any dealer or product ever appearing in our magazine, outside of those that bear our name. If you should ever have any questions, comments or suggestions, please contact me anytime at [email protected] or give me a call (757) 831-2264. If you ever have some news or info that you think we need to know about, give me a holler & we’ll be sure to check it out the best can. Thanks for rolling with us – See you on the road! ~ Kelly ~

Left: Road Rat Ronnie. Center & Right: Left: Road Rat Ronnie. Center & Right: Lee & Brenda Clemens of Departure Bike Lee & Brenda Clemens of Departure Bike Works Works


In Loving Memory Of Howie VThe following was taken from an email received by Mark Long of Mark Long Iron Horse from Howie V’s daughter, Lauriann:Hi Mark, I hope that you can open these ok. One picture is a picture that was on dad’s camera the morning he died. I was wondering if it was anyone you know. I also attached an old news-paper article written in the Motorcycle Post in 1979. My dad almost had some hair then <BG>. Also, dad is sur-

vived by 3 children; Lauriann Bradford, Ted Vera, and Ike Vera, as well as, 5 grandchildren, 2 brothers and a sister. He was transitioning into a photography career. He had many interests besides motorcycles, leatherworking, and photography. He was a scuba diver in the 60’s and had met Jacgues Cousteu. He looked nature and critters, especially birds and raccoons. He loved art and music, especially, but not limited to fantasy art and jazz music. He built his own house and showroom, and whenever he decided to do something, he became and expert, reading everything about the subject and talking to other experts. He loved learning about everything (and his example inspired me to home school my 3 kids). I am also including the contact information for Kimball’s, in case people want to follow up on that. Doug Kimball has dad’s data base, but there might be some who have moved or something. It is Kimballs Auction & Estate Services, 169 Meadow St, North Amherst MA 01059. The tel number is 413-549-8300. email [email protected] I talked to Ted today and we still don’t have a date for the auction, Doug is in the process of evaluation things and setting up the logistics. I have some inven-tory here, only mudfl aps, happyhands, and a few tool pouches. I need to move these things as quickly as pos-sible, since they have been taking up a lot of space in my house and we may be moving in the near future. If you think that it would be helpful, you can include my other email address : [email protected].


The Joker’s WildThe Joker’s WildAn elderly couple was attending church services, about halfway through she leans over and says to her husband, “ I just let out a silent fart, what do you think I should do?” He replies “ Put a new battery in your hearing aid.”

A cabbie picks up a Nun. She gets into the cab, and notices that the VERY handsome cab driver won’t stop staring at her. She asks him why he is staring. He re-plies: “I have a question to ask you but I don’t want to offend you.” She answers, “My son, you cannot offend me. When you’re as old as I am and have been a nun as long as I have, you get a chance to see and hear just about everything. I’m sure that there’s nothing you could say or ask that I would fi nd offensive.” “Well, I’ve always had a fantasy to have a nun kiss me.” She re-sponds, “Well, let’s see what we can do about that: #1, you have to be single and #2, you must be Catholic.” The cab driver is very excited and says, “Yes, I’m single and Catholic!” “OK” the nun says. “Pull into the next alley.” The nun fulfi lls his fantasy, with a kiss that would make a hooker blush. But when they get back on the road, the cab driver starts crying. “My dear child,” says the nun, “why are you crying?” “Forgive me but I’ve sinned. I lied and I must confess, I’m married and I’m Jewish.” The nun says, “That’s OK. My name is Kevin and I’m going to a Halloween party.”

Three Hillbillies Bobby-Jack, Ricky-Lee, and Billy-Joe are sittin’ on a porch shootin’ the breeze. Bobby-Jack: “My wife sure is stupid!...She bought an air conditioner. “ Ricky-Lee says: “Why is that stupid?” Bob-by-Jack says: “We ain’t got no dang ‘lectricity!” Ricky-Lee says: “That’s nothin’! My wife is so stupid, she bought one of them new fangled warshin’ machines!” Bobby-Jack says: “Why is that so stupid?” Ricky-Lee says: “Cause we ain’t got no dang plummin’!” Billy-Joe says: “That ain’t nuthin’! My wife is dumber than both yer wifes put together! I was going through her purse the other day lookin’ fer some beer change, and I found 6 condoms in thar.” Both Bobby-Jack and Ricky-Lee say: “Well, what’s so dumb about that?” Billy-Bob says: “Hello?....She ain’t got no dang pecker.”

A senior citizen goes in for his annual physical with his wife tagging along. When the doctor enters the exam room, he says, “I’ll need a urine sample, a stool sample, and a sperm sample.” The man, hard of hearing, turns to his wife and asks, “What did he say?” She yells back at him, “Give him your underwear!”

A woman walks into a sporting-goods store and asks the salesman if he could help her pick out a rifl e. “It’s for my husband,” she explains.“Did he tell you what caliber to get?” asks the salesman. “Are you kidding? He doesn’t even know I’m going to shoot him, yet.”

WHAT DID THE DICK SAY TO THE CONDOM WITH A HOLE IN IT? YOU’RE ABOUT AS USELESS AS ANASHTRAY ON A MOTORCYCLE.

The most amazing press story from this past Hallow-een: Police arrested Bubba (last name withheld), a 19 year old white male, in a pumpkin patch 11:38 p.m. on Halloween night. On Monday, at the County Seat, Bubba was charged with lewd and lascivious behavior, public in-decency, and public intoxication. The suspect explained that as he was passing a pumpkin patch on his way home from a drinking session when he decided to stop, “You know how a pumpkin is soft and squishy inside, and there was no one around for miles or at least I thought there wasn’t anyone around” he stated in a telephone in-terview. The accused went on to say that he pulled over to the side of the road, picked out a pumpkin that he felt was appropriate to his purpose, cut a hole in it, and pro-ceeded to satisfy his alleged ‘need.’ “Guess I was really into it, you know?” he commented with evident embar-rassment. In the process of doing the deed, Bubba failed to notice an approaching police car and was unaware of his audience until offi cer Jason Miller approached him. “It was an unusual situation, that’s for sure,” said offi cer Miller. “I walked up to the suspect and he’s just banging away at this pumpkin.” Offi cer Miller went on to describe what happened when he approached the suspect. “I said, “Excuse me sir, but do you realize that you’re having sex with a pumpkin?” The suspect froze and was clearly very surprised that I was there, and then he looked me straight in the face and said... “A pumpkin? Well, hells bells,...is it midnight already?”

A man and a woman, who have never met before, but are both married to other people, found themselves assigned to the same sleeping berth on a transcontinental train. Though initially embarrassed and uneasy over sharing a room, they were both very tired and fell asleep quickly...he in the upper bunk and she in the lower. At 1:00 AM , the man leaned over and gently woke the woman saying, “Ma’am, I’m sorry to bother you, but would you be will-ing to reach into the closet to get me a second blanket? I’m awfully cold.” “I have a better idea,” she whispered. “Just for tonight, let’s pretend that we’re married.” “Wow! That’s a great idea!” he exclaimed. “Good,” she replied. “Get your own damn blanket!” After a moment of silence, he farted.

Two old ladies were attending a rather long church service. One leans over and whispers “My butt isgoing to sleep.” “I know”, replies her companion,“I heard it snore three times.”

Resolution for 2008Handle every situation like a dog. If you can’t eat it or hump it. Piss on it and walk away.

The Joker’s WildThe Joker’s Wild


Avoiding the Dangers of Avoiding the Dangers of Everyday ObstaclesEveryday Obstacles

I was inspired this month to write on emergency stops and evasive maneuvers. Recently I had an oc-casion to hear about a person who believed that the vehicle in front of him was going to turn at an intersec-tion up the road. But instead the vehicle turned into a driveway

just short of the intersection, causing them to have to take immediate action. Hopefully the suggestions in this article will help you to deal with situations that could happen. You know the ones that make you feel like you have no op-tions? Well let us see if this helps; The fi rst thing you need to remember about any situation that takes you by surprise, as most do on a motorcycle, you will react how you were trained. Therefore, if you practice various techniques of escape and stopping on a routine basis, chances are that when the time comes to apply it, you will either evade the obstacle or at least minimize the amount of damage or injury. One thing to remember in all situations is that a safe following distance is imperative at all times, therefore giving more cushion room for decisions. The more speed you reduce prior to executing a maneuver, will allow you the ability to steer the motorcycle into a safe direction. In the situation where there is no out for you, the more speed you “scuff off” the less injury to you and your motorcycle.Immediately look for an escape path while reducing speed. (Remember the best way to “scuff off” speed is in a straight line, not in a steering or leaning maneuver.) While reduc-ing speed, keep looking for that escape path. If you are constantly surveying and scanning your surrounding area, the decision process will be much shorter.The next step is affecting a maneuver through steering input to avoid the obstacle in your path. Most times the eva-sive action may be a very small input into your handlebars, remember that major steering maneuvers with speed equal disaster. Avoid the obstacle, get the motorcycle in a straight line and come to a stop. The most important thing when it comes to stopping is to use maximum effective braking without losing traction. When you lose traction with the road, your site picture could change drastically, like sliding down the road for instance.If you take the time to practice braking once or twice a week and use pretend scenarios while you are riding down the road, you’ll be better prepared.A keen and active mind while you ride is more reactive when it comes to taking positive action should a danger be put in your path. Sometimes crashes are unavoidable, but if you are able to reduce speed and impact to the surface, you will come out much better off. Do yourself a favor & practice whenever you can and don’t become complacent.Rubber side down, Chrome side up. Safe Riding!Timm Faesi

LOOKING OUT FOR YOU

With the fl u and cold season here, do whatever you can to avoid contracting it. One way is to keep your body fi t and strong. But if coughing and sniffl ing get the best of you here is a suggestion...

Treatment for the Common Cold?Scientists say they have confi rmed what grandmothers have known for centuries – that chicken soup is good for colds. Dr. Stephen Rennard tested his wife’s grandmother’s chicken soup recipe in his laboratory. He found that it did have medicinal value because it limited the movement of neutrophils, the white cells in the blood that fi ght infection. Neutrophils actually remove bacteria from the body, but in the process they stimulate the production of mucus – one of the irritating symptoms of colds and the fl u.Dr. Rennard, a University of Nebraska Medical Center physician/researcher did not clarify what in the soup produced the health benefi t. But it suggested the ingredients – which included chicken, onions, sweet potatoes, parsnips, turnips, carrots, celery, parsley, salt and pepper – somehow worked together to create a benefi cial brew.“Colds and the fl u naturally make you produce mucus,” says Dr. Jordan S. Josephson, an otolaryngologist and sinus specialist at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City . “But research showed that chicken soup inhibits the mucus production. That means my nose will be less stuffy, my throat won’t be as sore, I won’t be coughing as much, I won’t be as congested and I will feel better.Combat your next cold with plenty of rest, lots of fl uids and a bowl of homemade chicken soup. Other items to consider to avoid a cold include washing your hands often and using paper towels for drying, trying a few relaxation techniques to boost your immune system, and staying involved in activities that help your body stay fi t.

World’s Greatest Tattoo


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 states 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 – they are here for you, making a special showing to give you the fi nest in everything that they have to offer. Most of them ride too, so they know exactly

what you want & need. The staff here at Thunder Roads is greatly appreciative of all of our advertiser’s continuous support each

month - they are the sole fi nancial 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]. We are the # 1 Free Biker

Publication in the Mid-Atlantic giving you our best. “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

Harley-Davidson of Maryland Inc7010 Troy Hill DriveElkridge, MD 21075

(410) 796-1044www.harleydavidsonofmaryland.com

Haus of Trikes12636 Sunset Ave. Unit F5

Ocean City, MD (410) 213-2421

www.hausoftrikes.com

North Carolina

Curly’s Harley-Davidson/Buell 3825 Reidsville RoadWinston-Salem, NC

336-722-3106

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

Absolut Cycle Worx5016 Old Midlothian Tnpk

Richmond, VA 23224(804) 497-7000

Email: [email protected]

Al’s Towing & Nicky’s Custom5570 Raby Rd

Norfolk, VA 23541(757) 407-2735 or (757) 407-2696

www.alstowing.com

American Legend Custom Motorcycles10611 Wards Rd

Rustburg, VA 24588(434) 821-5303

www.americanlegendcustomcycles.com

Bayside Harley-Davidson3403 High StreetPortsmouth, VA (757) 397-5550

www.baysidehd.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

Catlin Kustom Cycles1909 Boulevard

Colonial Heights, VA804526-2208

www.ckccustoms.com

Chix Custom Cycles3745 Shore Drive

Virginia Beach, VA(757) 363-2453

www.chixcustomcycles.com

Classic Twins19363 Brandy RoadBrandy Station, VA

(540) 829-0313

Confederate Cycles22447-A Timberlake Road

Lynchburg, VA 24502(434) 237-2316

Coleman Power Sports 435 S. Washington St.

Falls Church, VA(800) 888-3619

www.wherethepoweris.com

Coleman Power Sports 14105 Telegraph Rd.

Woodbridge, VA (703) 497-1500

www.wherethepoweris.com

Colonial Harley-Davidson/Buell1701 Temple Parkway

Prince George, VA (804) 861-4700

Departure Bike Works5216 Hull St

Richmond, VA(804) 231-0244

www.departure.com

Devil Dawg Custom Cycles14512 Lee Road Units C, D & E

Chantilly, VA 20151(703) 378-4115 or (888) 550-9810www.devildawgcustomcycles.com

East Coast Harley/Buell17975 Main Street

Dumfries, VA(703) 221-3757

Full House Cycles100 Full House Drive

Winchester, VA 540-667-0088

Gary’s Automotive Again23220 Airport Street

Petersburg, VA 23803(804) 733-8644

Gator Hole Powersports342 Mecklenburg DriveChase City, VA 23924

(434) 372-1771

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 Highway

Yorktown, VA(757) 872-7223

Harley-Davidson of Lynchburg20452 Timberlake Road

Lynchburg, VA434-237-2381

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

HOPAR’S21771 Timberlake Road

Lynchburg, VA 24502(434) 455-2143

&5411 Williamson Road

Roanoke, VA 24012(540) 362-0140

Iron Core977 Chimney Hill Shopping Center


Iron Sports Custom Cycles 3520 Williamson Road

Roanoke, VA (540) 366-0042

Jim McClure’sMaster Performance Cycles

3707 Rochambeau Dr.Williamsburg Va. 23188

757 566-0544 Fax [email protected]

King’s Restoration36 Cloverdale Pl.Cloverdale, VA(540) 966-3911

Nicky’s Custom Auto & Cycle5570 Raby Rd.

Norfolk, VA 23502(757) 461-7097, (757) 455-6667

Nicky’s cell: (757) 407-2696www.alstowing.com

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

ProStreet Cycles8075 Jefferson Davis Hwy

Richmond, VA 23237(804) 271-7766

www.prostreetcycles.net

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

Rocker Originals441 Grafton Drive

Yorktown, VA 23692(757) 898-RIDE

www.rockeroriginals.com

Rocket Rogers Old 97 Choppers 2830 Riverside DriveDanville, VA 24540

434-792-3132www.rocketrogersmotorcycles.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

Tom’s Custom Cycles7203A George Washington Memorial Hwy Rt17

Yorktown, VA (757) 898-7702

Velocity Motorcycles – Eagle RidersSALES & RENTALS1202 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

Busted Knuckles Custom Cycles9478 Winchester Ave

BunkerHill, WV 25413(304) 229-9360

www.bustedknucklescycles.com

Cole Harley-Davidson 1804 Bland St.

Bluefi eld, WV 24701(304) 324-8116

Mike’s Harley-DavidsonHighway 119 Preece Bottom Rd

Delbartown, WV 25670(304) 426-4241

PAINT AND GRAPHICS

Virginia

Dye Art Custom Airbrush & Graphics200 Commerce Circle, Suite L

Yorktown, VA 23693(757) 596-1867

www.dyeart.com

Hollywood Signs (vehicle graphics, decals)23202 Airport St.

Petersburg, VA 23833(804) 733-8956

LEGAL SERVICES

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

The Law Offi ce of Tom McGrath1-800-321-8968

www.motorcyclevirginia.com

BIKER ACCESSORIES, APPAREL, LEATHERS & GIFTS

Virginia

Diva Customs501 17th St.

Virginia Beach, VA 23451(757) 428-DIVA

www.divacustoms.com

Fast Lane Biker Gear & Accessories166 S. Rosemont Rd. Ste. GVirginia Beach, VA 23452

(757) 340-4446

Harley-Haven1920Atlantic Ave


Mr. D’s Leather & Novelties

9902A Warwick BlvdNewport News, VA

(757) 599-4070

Reeps Riders3601B E. Ocean View Ave

Norfolk, VA 23518(757) 362-3971

www.reepsriders.com

Renegade Classics14575 Jefferson Davis Hwy

Woodbridge, VA 22191703-499-9533

www.nova.rcosva.com

Route 17 – The Rider’s Highway3403 High Street (Hwy 17)

Portsmouth, VA 23707(757) 967-8268

[email protected]

The Shade Tree www.myshadetree.net

757-435-2457

The Leather Shack10 Weems Lane

Winchester, VA 22601(540) 678-3900

www.theleathershack.com

West Virginia

C & A Bike Accessories1615 Winchester Ave. Unit B

Martinsburg, WV 25401(304) 263-8229

www.cabikeaccessories.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

Krazy’s SaloonRt 1 South

Rockingham, NC 28379(757) 327-1837(910) 610-3839

Mako Mike’s Restaurant MP 7 – US 158 Bypass

Kill Devil Hills, NC252-480-1919

The Hawg Pen198 Shortcut Road Hwy 158

Barco, NC 27917(252) 453-8436

Virginia

Boneshakers Saloon1297 General Booth BlvdVirginia Beach, VA 23451

(757) 961-8382www.boneshakerssaloon.com

Club Car Café18497 Dunne Ave

Parksley, VA 23421(757) 665-7822

The Cactus Steakhouse & Saloon 6401 George Washington Memorial Hwy

Rt 17Yorktown, VA

(757) 898-8500

Damon & Company Sports Bar & Grill7104 George Washington Memorial Hwy

Rt. 17 NorthGloucester, VA(804) 693-7218

www.damonsbar.com

Dirty Dick’s Crab HouseRudee Inlet

Virginia Beach, VA(757) 491-DICK

HOOTERs of Chesterfi eld 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) 657-9331EVERY NIGHT IS BIKE NIGHT!

MOTORCYCLE RENTALS

Virginia

Bayside Harley-Davidson2211 Frederick Blvd I-264 Exit 5

Portsmouth, VA 23704757 397-5550

www.baysidehd.com

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 & Marina169 Walnut Island Blvd

Grandy, NC 27939(252) 453-4153

www.outerbanksbikerally.com

Comfort Inn Oceanfront South 8031 Old Oregon Inlet Road

Nags Head, NC(800) 334-3302

PHOTOGRAPHY

Fisher Productionswww.fi sherproductionsonline.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


TATOO STUDIOS

City Limits Tattoo & Piercing, Ltd.119D Boulevard

Colonial Heights, VA 23834(804) 504-0600

www.citylimitstattoo.com

Two Feathers Tattoos“Art With A Pulse”

(757) 575-5977

BANDS

Bad AceContact Jeff Abbott

[email protected]

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

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

Al’s Towing of Virginia – 24 Hour Service5570 Raby Rd.

Norfolk, VA 23502(757) 461-7097, (757) 455-6667

Al’s cell (757) 407-2735www.alstowing.com

Peaco Towing, Inc. 24 HOUR SERVICE6906 School Avenue

Richmond, Virginia 23228(804) 262-1001

REAL ESTATE

Bob Chapman – The Biker’s Realtor926-A J. Clyde Morris BlvdNewport News, VA 23601

(757) [email protected]

TRAILER SALES

Segeleon Racing LLC(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 [email protected]

vatrailersales.com


with BZgal, Tigger & Apehanger

This is THE band to watch!One word: AWESOME! This group is defi nitely going to be a huge success. If you want the opportunity to see a star before they become famous, you need to see and hear Charles Harris with Honky Tonk Highway and you will agree. They performed non-stop giving their audi-ence the ultimate best in every genre of dance music: country, southern rock, classic rock, both old and new. (Tigger’s dancing boots are now being re-heeled and re-soled because of the country set.)We met the band during one of their breaks at a fi refi ght-ers benefi t. Charles is their lead vocalist, Jeff Bess is the drummer, Pete Milby is bass, and Tracy Holland is lead guitarist. Each of these four men are the nicest guys that you’ll ever meet in addition to being incredibly talented. The musicians provided the music and energy to match Charles’ incredible vocals and cool dance moves. The ex-cellent show that Honky Tonk Highway gives could in time easily get them in the same league with Garth, Kenny, Tim, Travis, and the other big guys. They recently gave an incredible performance at a benefi t that was featured in the November issue of Thunder Roads. The fundraiser was held at the Petersburg Old Towne Civic Center for fallen fi refi ghters which was hosted by the Petersburg Fire Department. This will be-come an annual event to fund the monument, The Fallen Firefi ghter Memorial, to honor the Petersburg fi refi ghters lost in the line of duty. We can’t say enough great things about them so visit their website: HonkyTonkHighway.info to get their tour sched-ule and see them for yourself!


HONKY TONK HIGHWAYHONKY TONK HIGHWAY

Have you ever wondered what difference it would have made if Jesus had been born in our time rather than during the reign of Caesar Augustus?Personally I don’t think it would have made that much of a difference. The birth of a baby to a young ordinary couple just isn’t going to make headline news.The only difference I see would be that there is a good chance that the fi rst people informed of the birth of Christ might well have been the nearest group of bikers.To understand why I suggest this we need to look at the fi rst people who were told of Jesus’ birth in the Bible: The angels did not announce this glorious news to kings or other nobles. Instead they announced it to shepherds, who were outside of the city tending their fl ocks.Shepherds were not highly esteemed in those days. They were looked down on by most people and had to stay outside of the city walls to do their job. The nature of their work prevented them from being allowed to reg-ularly attend temple service. And they were not trusted by people. In fact, their honesty was so doubted that shepherds were not allowed to be witnesses in court.See any similarities here? Shepherds were no worse than anyone else, but because of their job and how they lived people looked down on them.How does society look at us bikers? TV and movies make us look untrustworthy. We sometimes get odd looks when we go into places. While things continue to improve, there are still many prejudices and stereo-types that society has for bikers. Yes, I think that bikers have a sense of how the shepherds must have felt.Still, it was to the shepherds that God chose to re-veal the birth of the Savior. And it was these same shepherds who were the fi rst to visit and worship the newborn Christ child.God loves everyone! Including shepherds and bikers!God breaks into human history in unexpected ways to bring light into our darkness. He comes to those not expecting or even seeking Him. He comes to those who are going about the ordinary business of living. He does not care if we ride in the back of a limo or sit atop

a Harley; we are all just as valuable in His eyes.As we celebrate Christmas this year, let’s all remember that Jesus came for ALL of us. This Christmas could be a great surprise for you if you accept that and let Him teach you what it all means.

Have a Merry Christmas!Always and All Ways in Christ< )))>< Rick ‘Preacher’ Saunders


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.

thunder roads virginia magazine - december - '07

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