Thunder Roads WV

Tribute to a Brother

The three owners of Thunder Roads WV have lost a brother. Wayne “Big Dog” Donaldson of Weston, WV was a Son, Brother, Father, Husband, Grandfather, and close friend to many of us. Wayne and his wife Candace were seen throughout WV on rides when someone needed help. They always showed up to help. It’s hard to remember someone with more giving hearts than Wayne and Candy. Most of the time Wayne would drive and Candy would be right behind him with her camera snapping away pictures. They rode everywhere making hundreds of friends along the way.

If you ride long enough accidents happen and we lose people we love. Over the years there are too many to count. As you read this we ask that you remember the ones that no longer physically ride with us but remain in our hearts forever. There is an old biker saying that goes like this “Some will walk into Heaven Others will Ride!” We would like to remember Wayne riding through the Gates with that Big Smile of his! Until We Ride Together Again Please Remember His Family and Friends in your Thoughts and Prayers. We are Proud to have been able to call Wayne our Brother and would like to dedicate this first issue to his memory.

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Thunder Roads Magazine® West Virginia 4157 Mountain Road #233 Pasadena, Maryland 21122

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Facebook – Thunder Roads WVTwitter – TR_BigCity

EdiToR / oWnER / PublishERbiG CiTY

[email protected]

sAlEs & MARKETinG Steve “Hillbilly” Craig Mike “Rhino” Ryan (681) 209-0834 (681) 209-0832 [email protected] [email protected]

ACCounTinGMike “Bighead” Abbott

(681)209-0842 [email protected]

MARKETinG & soCiAl MEdiA MGR.Catherine “Kitty” Noske / CRAVE Marketing Solutions

443.591.1882 [email protected]

lAYouT & dEsiGn Meredith Hancock / Hancock Graphics

PhoToGRAPhYMichael J. Alves, www.uspatriotphotography.com

nATionAl FoundERsToni McCoy Shearon & Brian Shearon

1528 Matlock Drive, Chapmansboro, TN. 37035 Office: (615) 792-0040 Fax: (615) 792-7580

[email protected]

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NO PART OF ITS CONTENT MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION. PUBLISHER ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY AND IS NOT TO BE HELD LIABLE FOR ERRORS BEYOND THE COST OF THE SPACE OCCUPIED BY THE ERROR, SLANDER OF ANY GROUP OR INDIVIDUAL, FAILURE TO PRODUCE ANY ISSUE AS SCHEDULED DUE TO REASONS 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.

ON THE COVER:Model – Carrie Englehart

Photographer:Michael J. Alves

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A Biker’s Creed ........................................... 5

Big City’s Two-Wheel Testament ................ 7

Twsits and Turns......................................... 9

Joker’s Wild ...............................................11

David Uhl .................................................. 12

KISS in the Kitchen................................... 15

Sippin’ Shine with Hillbilly ......................... 17

Center Calendar ....................................... 18

Zeppelin Tribute Bike ................................ 20

Ed’s CB450 John Deere Edition ............... 22

Events....................................................... 25

Biker Friendly Directory ............................ 26

Why We Ride ............................................ 28

News Bytes............................................... 30

Tabasco Report ........................................ 32

Fannies & Fenders ................................... 33

Thunder Cam............................................ 34

2 FEBRUARY 2014 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE WEST VIRGINIA

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3485 WINCHESTER AVE , MARTINSBURG WV

W e here at Thunder Roads Magazine West Virginia want to thank all of our readers for

your support in helping us bring back YOUR magazine. It is important to us that everyone understands we want you to think of this as your source for all things Biker Friendly. We ask that you feel free to submit photos and stories for consideration. We believe in a strong local presence in the magazine. Please contact us at [email protected] with any questions you may have on how to help.

As always this is only possible with the support of all the great business that are advertising with us to help reach out to YOU. So please support them as well and tell them Thunder Roads West Virginia sent you.

Montani Semper Liberi,

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THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE WEST VIRGINIA FEBRUARY 2014 3


A BIKER’S CREEDI ride because it is pure fun. I ride because I enjoy the freedom I feel from being exposed to the elements, and the vulnerability to the danger that is

intrinsic to riding. I do not ride because it is fashionable to do so. I ride because it is natural and is what I have done all my life.

I ride my machine, not wear it. My machine is not a symbol of status. It exists simply for me, and me alone.

My machine is not a toy. It is an extension of my being, and I will treat it accordingly,

with the same respect as I have for myself.

I strive to understand the inner-workings of my machine, from the most basic to the most complex.

I will learn everything I can about my machine, so that I am reliant upon no one but myself for its health and well being.

I strive to constantly better my skill of control over my machine. I will learn its limits,

and use my skill to become one with my machine so that we may keep each other alive.

I am the master, it is the servant. Working together in harmony, we will become an invincible team.

I do not fear death. I will, however, do all possible to avoid death prematurely.

Fear is the enemy, not death. Fear on the highway leads to death, therefore I will not let fear be my master.

I will master it. My machines will outlive me. Therefore, they are my legacy.

I will care for them for future bikers to cherish as I have cherished them, whoever they may be.

I do not ride to gain attention, respect, or fear from those that do NOT ride, nor do I wish to intimidate or annoy them.

For those that do not know me, all I wish from them is to ignore me. For those that desire to know me, I will share with

them the truth of myself, so that they might understand me and not fear others like me.

I will never be the aggressor on the highway. However, should others mess with me,

their aggression will be dealt with in as severe a manner as I can cast upon them.

I will show respect to other bikers more experienced or knowledgeable than I am.

I will learn from them all I can. However, if my respect is not acknowledged or appreciated, it will end.

I will not show disrespect to other bikers less experienced or knowledgeable than I am.

I will teach them what I can. However, if they show me disrespect, they will be slapped.

It will be my task to mentor new riders, that so desire, into the lifestyle of the biker, so that the breed shall continue. I shall

instruct them, as I have been instructed by those before me. I shall preserve and honor traditions of bikers before me, and

I will pass them on unaltered. I will not judge other bikers on their choice of machine, their appearance, or their profession.

I will judge them only on their conduct as bikers. I am proud of my accomplishments as a biker,

though I will not flaunt them to others. If they ask, I will share them.

I will stand ready to help any other biker that truly needs my help.

I will never ask another biker to do for me what I can do for myself.

I am not a part-time biker. I am a biker when, and wherever I go. I am proud to be a biker, and hide my chosen lifestyle

from no one. I ride because I love freedom, independence, and the movement of the ground beneath me. But most of all, I

ride to better understand myself, my machine, the lands in which I ride, and to seek out and know other bikers like myself.

–Anonymous-



W elcome to the Rushing Wind Ministry Biker Church page of the new Thunder Roads Magazine

West Virginia. Just a little about us. This Church was started through the Bikers For Christ Motorcycle Ministry’s North Central Chapter in Spelter WV. In late Fall of 2012, it came to the attention of our Chapter Elder Jim Glaspell that a vacant church in Spelter was for sale. After a lot of prayer and phone calls the purchase was made. From that time on we have been blessed with filling the building with everything we have needed. As we moved into a empty building other local churches blessed us with seating, sound system and prayers and on June 22, 2013 we opened the doors for our first service that was amazing. We are a Non-denominational church. Although we may say Biker Church, we welcome everyone, not just Bikers. This is a church that God has built and is for everyone. No matter if you are in church already or just need to find a church to go to, you are welcome. If you have a home church then this is where you can come for that little extra. We meet every Saturday night starting with Fellowship at 6 and the service at 7. We would like to invite you to come and visit us on Saturday nights. The biker community knows about God’s creations more than most because when we ride we see and

feel all the wonderful creations God has given us all. While out riding, if you see any of the Bikers For Christ members and you want to talk or need a prayer, just come on over and we will share the love of Jesus Christ with you. We are Blessed to have been asked to do this page. We will be doing devotionals, testimonials along with

scripture for you to read and enjoy. With the riding season soon to be here we hope that everyone will be able to ride a lot and enjoy everything God has graced us with. We pray that you have a safe year and that all obstacles will be kept from your path. God Bless and see you on the road.

1 THESSALONIANS 2:11/1211. Now may our God and Father Himself and Jesus our Lord direct our way to you; 12. and may the Lord cause you to increase and abound in love for one another, and for all people, just as we also do for you

RUSHING WIND MINISTRY 26 B STREET SPELTER WV.26438 PHONE (304-624-4777)



By the time we get to this part of the year most of us are sick

of winter, cold, snow, ice and everything that comes together and makes us dream of warmer temperatures and long rides on our bikes. I’ve got good news for all of you. I found a hidden gem in the hills of West Virginia that will help you welcome in spring and get you out on the road and in the wind. This year will be the 33rd annual Irish Spring Festival in Ireland, West Virginia. Ireland is located in southern Lewis County. It was settled by an Irishman named Andrew Wilson. It was found that Mr. Wilson (Old Ireland) lived to see 114 spring times. The average life-span at the time was 38. After learning of this and living in a place called Ireland the community wanted to do something to celebrate. What better time than St. Patrick’s Day and the first day of spring. What is so unique about this Festival? Unless you go to the country of Ireland I doubt you can see some road bowling. Teams come from all over to compete in the annual road bowling games. You can climb the hill to touch the Blarney rock and leave a penny for the leprechauns and make a wish. There is a scavenger hunt, lucky charm pitch (horseshoes), corn hole, open microphone, pet show, harp concert and workshop, and much more. This is a great time for the whole family to get out and enjoy some outdoor time after a long winter. I have been assured that the community would welcome all and your bikes. They have a parade and a flag rising. This might be a good way of introducing your group to the community. This year it looks like the events will begin on the 9th of March and end when they welcome spring into the community on the 20th at 12:57p.m. The dates and times can change. You can find

more info at www.angelfire.com/wv/irishspringfestival. You can also call the Lewis County Convention and Visitors Bureau, inc. 304-269-7328, or 304-452-8962.

If you have information that you would like to see in twists and turns please send info to [email protected]

– Hillbilly

TwisTsandTurns

irish spring festivalireland, wv



3-D HEAD CUSTOM PAINT® KNOXVILLE, TN 865-621-9836

Ask for KENNY or TONY

A dog lover, whose dog was a female and “in heat” agreed to look after her neighbor’s male dog while the neighbors were on vacation. She had a large house and believed that she could keep the two dogs apart. However, as she was drifting off to sleep she heard awful howling and moaning sounds, rushed downstairs and found the dogs locked together, in obvious pain and unable to disengage, as so frequently happens when dogs mate.Unable to separate them, and perplexed as to what to do next, although it was late, she called the Vet, who answered in a very grumpy voice.Having explained the problem to him, the Vet said,“Hang up the phone and place it down alongside the dogs. I will then call you back and the noise of the phone ringing will make the male lose his erection and he will be able to withdraw.”“Do you actually think that will work?” she asked.“Just worked on me,” the Vet replied, & hung up.

Condoms don’t guarantee safe sex anymore. A friend of mine was wearing one when he was shot by the woman’s husband. ------------------------------------------------------------------------Poor Lance -I think it is just terrible and disgusting how everyone has treated him, especially after what he achieved, winning all those French Bike Races, while on drugs. When I’m on drugs, I can’t even find my damn bike, let alone ride it! ------------------------------------------------------------------------A guy broke into my apartment last week. He didn’t take my TV, just the remote. Now he drives by and changes the channels. Sick S.O.B. !!------------------------------------------------------------------------I just got scammed out of $25.Bought Tiger’s new DVD entitled “My Favorite 18 Holes”. Turns out it’s about golf. Absolute waste of money!Pass this on so others don’t get scammed.Best Regards, Charlie Sheen.------------------------------------------------------------------------Bubba calls the airline to book a flight.The operator asks, “How many people are flying with you?”Bubba replies “I don’t know! It’s your dang-ass plane. y’all do the math”. ------------------------------------------------------------------------Instead of “the John”, I call my bathroom “the Jim”. That way it sounds way cooler when I say “I go to the Jim first thing every morning, without fail.”

Light travels faster than sound. This is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak. ------------------------------------------------------------------------Change is inevitable, except from a vending machine.------------------------------------------------------------------------ Nothing is foolproof to a sufficiently talented fool.------------------------------------------------------------------------Give a man a fish & he eats for a day. Teach a man to fish & he can sit in a boat & drink beer all day. ------------------------------------------------------------------------

During class, a teacher trying to teach good manners, asks the students: “Students, If you were on a date, having supper with a nice young lady, how would you tell her that you have to go to the bathroom? Michael?”Michael: “Just a minute, I have to go pee.” Teacher: “That would be rude and impolite!!!Teacher: “What about you Peter? How would you say it?” Peter: “I am sorry, but I really need to go to the bathroom, I’ll be right back.”...Teacher: “That’s better, but it’s still not very nice to say the word bathroom at the dinner table.And you Little Johnny, are you able to use your intelligence for once and show us your good manners?”Johnny: “I would say: ‘Darling, may I please be excused for a moment? I have to shake hands with a very dear friend of mine, who I hope you’ll get to meet after our delicious & expensive supper. “

HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY ALL YOU SEXY BIKERS! live, laugh, love.


DAVID UHL AND STEVEN TYLER

TEAM UP TO BENEFIT EDUCATION AND ARTS

World renowned artist David Uhl of Uhl Studios and international music icon

Steven Tyler of Aerosmith have recently teamed up for a historic charity project. David Uhl, the artist and founder of Uhl Studios, recognized for his unique style and vintage motorcycle and aviation paintings, recently created a monumental painting of Steven Tyler on a motorcycle riding through a crowd of paparazzi. This impressive 6-foot tall original oil painting on canvas , titled “The Reckoning”, is the largest effort by David Uhl to date and will be later offered to the public as limited edition fine art prints signed by both David and Steven. All of the profits from print sales will be directly funneled to benefit art and music programs in public schools. The creative idea behind this project has its roots in Steven’s active fight for privacy rights that resulted in submitting the entitled Steven Tyler Act into the State of Hawaii legislature. This legislation was intended to give more privacy to public figures, such as government officials and celebrities on vacation, raise awareness of these intrusions and afford public figures the right to sue aggressive paparazzi for trespassing and taking unwanted photographs.

David Uhl and Steven Tyler first met in Sturgis in 2009, where they both took part in the Legends Ride. Both fervent motorcycle enthusiasts with a deep appreciation for art and music, they quickly became friends and kept in touch. Since then, David has painted numerous portraits of Steven and his family members, including his daughters Chelsea and Mia, and his son Taj. For the past year, both artists have been dreaming up this charitable collaboration to benefit arts and music

“The Reckoning” by david uhl


programs for public school students in need. The perfect opportunity and setting provided by the New York International Motorcycle Show has made this collaboration possible. The organizers of this renowned motorcycle show have graciously agreed to provide the stage for the unveiling event, the space for David’s largest gallery ever, as well as their full support for this charitable collaboration.

To ensure that donations get directly to the source as quickly as possible, the artists have teamed up with DonorsChoose.org, an innovative online charity connecting classroom requests from teachers in high-need communities with donors who want to help. Benefiting underfunded arts programs in schools is a priority for David and Steven and both artists hope that their involvement will help maximize sales proceeds, attract other private donors and corporate sponsors, and give the project a momentum to continue to raise funds into the future.

In David’s words: “Ever since I was in grade school I have witnessed the slow marginalization of art and music classes in our public schools. Of course now with our economic challenges, it’s off the charts...I understand it is difficult to quantify the benefits of this type of education, but personally I think it’s fundamental for the right brain development, especially in the early years.

My long time friend and artist Steven Tyler of Aerosmith, has always recognized the value of the arts in any vibrational frequency. To collaborate with him on a project like this is a perfect match. Together I am hoping we can make a difference in realizing the importance of keeping the arts alive and exciting for those who naturally love to play, our children.”

Steven Tyler’s charity work includes participating in a variety of charity auctions, including the Ride for Children charity. He has joined other celebrities including Al Roker and Katherine Heigl,

to raise money for the Children’s Action Network, which increases awareness of foster care and adoption. Steven is also actively involved in supporting the VH1 Save the Music actions that raise awareness about the importance of music as part of each child’s complete education.

David Uhl’s charity involvement includes contributions to Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) and several motorcycling and art-related causes.

David’s stunning original painting will be officially launched during the International Motorcycle Show in New York on December 14th, where Steven Tyler and David Uhl will reveal it on stage during a special presentation.

Additional information will be provided next week as specific details become available._______________________________

More information about David Uhl and Uhl Studios can be found at: http://www.uhlstudios.com

“Chelsea” by david uhl, featuring steven Tyler’s daughter Chelsea.

“Top Guns” by david uhl, featuring steven Tyler’s son Taj.

Pope Francis and david uhl with the “Chance Encounter” commemorative artwork.

“steampunk” by david uhl



K.I.S.S. page composed & edited by:

Toni McCoy Shearon aka “MaMa Thunder” of Thunder Roads Tennessee

i have chosen this name for our monthly recipe page, as that was what my mother, rest her soul, always used to say when I would assist her in the kitchen. mom was an avid supporter of the kiss (keep it simple sweetie) method of cooking. i now, more than ever, truely appreciate her philosophy of always taking shortcuts where you can, as long as your ultimate outcome is that of down home, labor of love cooking.

i have chosen this name for our monthly recipe page, as that was what my mother, rest her soul, always used

K.I.S.S. page composed & edited by: Toni McCoy Shearon aka“MaMa Thunder” of Thunder Roads Tennessee

SPECIAL “VALENTINE” SUPPER:POTATOES & CHICKEN; SKILLET-ROASTED 1 Vidalia Sweet Onion; sliced thin1/4th Cup of Chicken Stock1/4th Cup of Water5 Medium Yukon Gold Potatoes; Sliced into 1/4 in. rounds1 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil1 Tbl. Butter or quality margarine2 Tbls. Rosemary1 tsp. Paprika 1 tsp. Crushed Coriander4 Bone-In, skin-on chicken thighes4 Bone-In, skin-on chicken drumsticks (legs)Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Scatter thinly slicedonions all around a large-size cast iron skillet. Add water & stock mixture. Lay the potatoes over the onions and drizzle with olive oil all over potatoes. Rub rosemary seasoning between your fingers or palms of hands to “wake up” the flavor. Place small pats of butter or quality margarine all around the potatoes layer. Make a small rub of salt, pepper, paprika & crushed coriander and rub it thoroughly into all pieces and all sides of chicken. Lay chicken skin side up over the potatoes layer. Roast until chicken is cooked through and potatoes are tender. Apprx. 1 hour. * When I make this I spoon a whopping spoonful of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt over top of chicken & potatoes. The coolness of the cream or yogurt is a perfect contrast.

VELVET IN YOUR MOUTH CREAMED SPINACH1 Medium Bag of Frozen Spinach; thawed completely and placed into a clean, thin kitchen cloth and wrung out totally until all the liquid is out. 2 Cups of Heavy Cream; room temperature1 Small Vidalia Onion; sliced in very thin slices1/2 Stick of butter or 3 Tbls. of quality margarine1 tsp. of NutmegTake a non-stick skillet, put a tad of butter in pan over me-dium heat. Take your thin-sliced onions and cut each one in half to form little half moon slices. Place in butter to slowly carmelize (just turn a tadbrown). Add your heavy cream and let it get heated up and gradually in small handfuls, gently add to the skillet mix. Take a wooden spoon and stir in circles to incorporate spin-ach totally into sauce.

After it’s all well blended, add your butter and stir gently until also well incorporated. Sprinkle your nutmeg over the entire skillet blend and stir into the mix. You can add all this at once, I’m just breaking it down for you here. Seri-ously, this takes about 5 minutes to make and it is the best creamed spinach ever! Salt & pepper to taste.

BROWNIES WITH A SPECIAL KICK (And no,not “special” like the ones’ in the 70’s) 10 Tbls. Unsalted Butter1 Cup Pure Cocoa Powder3-1/4 Cups Sugar or Splenda for Baking3-1/2 tsp. Cinnamon4 Eggs1 tsp. Mexican Vanilla Extract (in Mexican food aisle in super market) If can’t find, just use regular Vanilla Extract1 Pinch of Cayenne Pepper (you decide how much “KICK” you want2 Cups Flour1/2 tsp. Salt1-1/4 Cups Bitttersweet Chocolate ChipsPreheat oven to 300 degrees. Butter a 13x9 inch baking pan. Line your pan with parchment paper while leaving a 1-inch overhand on 2 sides. Melt butter in microwave (glass or ceramic bowl), add cocoa powder to melted but-ter and stir to mix. Using a wooden spoon, stir in cocoa & butter mixture. Add eggs 1 at a time. beating until just combined. Stir in Mexi-can Vanilla Extract. Mix in flour gently and salt gradually. Do not over-mix. Rough blend in chocolate chips. This will be a lumpy bat-ter. Pour into prepared pan. Bake 30-40 minutes (40 for crispier sides) Transfer pan to a wire rack; cool completely. Dust lightly with confectioner’s sugar and slightly drizzle with Hershey’s hot, melted chocolate syrup. Serve with top-quality vanilla ice-cream. Serve up 2 for you and your Valentine, but only use one spoon.

THE MORNING AFTER VAL-DAYCook up a skilletful of Huevos Rancheros (Google it)Make a BIG pitcher of ice-cold Bloody Mary’sEat lightly, drink enough to smooth the edgesGo back to bed together and enjoy even more ofwhat you totally enjoyed the night before.Then sleep most of the rest of the day. Isn’t genuine LOVE or LUST really fun? Hell Yeah



H owdy and Welcome! I’ve been waiting forever for Thunder Roads West Virginia! In the future I will try to interview people of interest in this column. If you have

suggestions please send them to [email protected]. In this first edition I am going to test your knowledge of West by God Virginia. Most of you will know the answers. Some will learn some stuff. Others won’t give a darn. Remember this column was written by a professional and you are advised not to try this at home. Have a jar of shine nearby. (For medicinal purposes only.)

Let’s warm up with some practice questions.

What day did W.Va. join the U.S.?

If you knew June 20, 1863 take a sip of shine.

The state mammal is the white tail deer. True or false?

If you said false you get shine. The answer is Black Bear. The deer is what’s for dinner.

I think you’re ready to begin. Good Luck

1. Of the following people which ones are not from West Virginia?

Jennifer Garner (actress), Sam Huff(football hall of fame), Don Knotts (actor), Chuck Yeager(U.S.A.F. General and test pilot),Mary Lou Retton(Olympic gold medalist),George Brett(baseball hall of fame),Pearl S. Buck(author) Jerry West(basketball hall of fame), Brad Paisley(musician).

The next questions are all true or false.

Told you it was gonna be easy.

2. 80% of W.Va. is covered by forest.

3. The state motto Montani Semper Liberi means Mountaineers are always free.

4. The highest point in the state is Spruce Knob in Pendleton County.4,861 ft.

5. The geographic center of the state is Braxton County 4 miles east of Sutton.

6. West Virginia is the only state carved out of another states territory without their permission.

7. In 1861 a public referendum overwhelmingly supported the creation of the new state to be named Kanawha. At a convention a month later the name was changed to West Virginia.

8. The state is named after Queen Elizabeth the virgin Queen.

9. The first capital of W.Va. was Wheeling.

10. The New River Gorge Bridge completed in 1977 is the longest steel arch bridge in the world.

Sippin’ shine with hillbillyso you think you’re a west virginia biker?

11. The first significant land battle between Union and Confederate troops occurred at the Battle of Philippi on June 3, 1861.

12. The first state sales tax in the U.S. went into effect in W.Va. July 1, 1921.

13. The first brick pavement was laid in Charleston in 1870.

14. The first city owned parking building in the U.S. was opened in 1941 in Welch.

15. ESPN scholastic once picked as the best sports team nickname in the U.S. the Dots of Poca High School in Poca.

16. Gov. Cecil Underwood was the youngest elected governor in 1954 at 34. Gov. Cecil Underwood was the oldest elected governor when he was elected governor in 1996. He turned 78 in 2000.

17. During WWII over 1700 people from different countries, mainly diplomats were imprisoned at Greenbrier Resort.

18. The state tree is the sugar maple.

19. The state gem is the West Virginia Coral Fossil.

20. Country Roads Take Me Home is the National Anthem of the U. S.

I hope you have some fun reading this. I hope you also take some time and thank the good Lord up above that you were blessed to be from such a special place. The next time you take a ride look around you at the beauty this state has to offer. Sometimes I think we start to take it for granted. I’m proud to be a Mountaineer and I look forward to meeting you on a future ride.

Remember when sippin shine always share with your friends and lose the lid. God Bless you all. Until next time.

– Hillbilly

P.S. All the answers are true except number 20 that’s just wishful thinking.




During this past Chillicothe Rodeo, I broke out and rode down to Harley-Davidson of Chillicothe early one morning. While

cutting through town I came across Ed Bennet and his “John Deere” bike at a local diner.Ed rebuilt and customized this bike on his own as a tribute to the John Deere name and the traditional, country values it represents. He fabricated the front end and updated the frame to create a unique, clean look. The bright green and yellow pain scheme was created through the patient use of “rattle cans” from the local tractor supply shop.Almost as interesting as the bike itself, is the wheel

Ed’s CB450 “John dEErE Edition”

1973 Honda CB 450

Kids are thrilled by the bike, with several stopping by just while I was shooting it.


barrow that it tows along. This is a real, functional wheel barrow that Ed found discarded out back in the barn. As he started to ride his bike, Ed realized that he needed a place to stash his stuff while riding. While he was considering his options he came across the old wheel barrow. He stripped it down and rebuilt it as a practical motorcycle trailer. And when he arrives at his destination, he simply unhooks it and rolls it away.

- The Iron Cowboy, Thunder Roads Magazine Ohio



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sTRWV is not responsible for inaccuracies or the specifics of the information provided. If you would like your event listed, please email details and your contact information to: [email protected]

DElaWaRERide to the TideSunday, April 27, 2014The Blue Knights Delaware Chapter 1 and the Delaware Special Olympics will hold the Annual Ride to the Tide on April 27th ( Rain date will be May 4th ). Ride will depart from the University of Delaware, Newark at 10:30am and from the Delaware Motor Vehicle lanes in Dover at 12 noon.www.sode.org/fundraisers/ride-to-the-tide

Delaware / Maryland State HOG Rally 2013 (in Maryland)Thursday, June 19, 2014 - Sunday, June 22, 2014The 2014 Delaware / Maryland State HOG Rally is being held in Cumberland, MD Go here for more information on the 2014 Delaware / Maryland State HOG Rally

MaRylaND 12th Annual TIMONIUM MOTORCYCLE SHOWFriday, February 7, 2014 - Sunday, February 9, 2014Timonium, MD - Every foreign and domestic motorcycle manufacturer available in USA on display…huge custom and antique bike show…100’s of exhibits covering everything in motorcycling. Paul Teutul, Sr. and his Orange County Chopper crew, along with many of their recent TV builds and lots of ‘For Sale’ apparel, will fill the Celebrity Feature Area. Attendees can also meet motorcycle sweetheart, Michele Smith and the ‘Norman Rockwell’ of Harley Davidson Fine Art, David Uhl all three days. Two wheel enthusiasts can check out our huge Swapmeet, which includes a Garage Built Speed Machine Section featuring

Vintage Café Racers, Choppers, Drag Bikes and Bobbers. Show goers can also witness a live ‘Two Wheel Wedding’ and Vote for their favorite bike builder in the 1st Annual Biker Build-Off which includes builders from 5 states. The show, sponsored by BAM, the nation’s largest motorcycle breakdown and legal assistance network, is held at the Maryland State Fairgrounds – Timonium, Maryland – Opens 10am each day, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, February 7-9, 2014. Admission for Adults: $17.00, Children 10-15 years $6.00 and under 10 are free with paying adult. For more info, $5.00 off Adult Admission Coupons or to buy Advanced Tickets go to www.cycleshow.net.

Bikes to the Beach - 4th AnnualThursday, April 24, 2014 - Sunday, April 27, 2014Taking place all weekend long throughout Delmarva Look for all types of new exciting biker events for the Spring Rally in Ocean City Maryland! From bull riding, bike shows, custom builders, awesome vendors, great food and lots of drink specials! Great time of the year to come to the beach and get the Spring season revved up! Hope to see you there!www.bikestothebeach.com

Apple’s 11th Annual East Coast Motorcycle RallyWednesday, August 6, 2014 - Sunday, August 10, 2014Formerly known as the “East Coast Sturgis Motorcycle Rally” Two Stages, GREAT BANDS five days of Colossal Entertainment You won’t Forget! Featuring The Outlaws & Great Train Robbery Come Early, Stay Late! There will also be a Poker Run, Bike Show, Field Events, Contests and All Kinds of Wild Fun! This is the event that’s taking the country by storm! All the reasons are right. Mountains, Open Country, Good People, Clean Air and the Freedom of the road! The East Coast Motorcycle Rally is the hot spot for motorcyclist to get together

for good times, good food, and great entertainment. Come, Camp, Party! NO ONE DAY RATE! Rally Ticket price includes: Camping / Concerts / Tours / motorcycle Demolition Derby and All other Activities HOT SHOWERS AVAILABLE EVERY DAY : FREE RV’S, CAMPERS, BUSES ETC.. Apple mountain main event grounds for the east coast motorcycle rally has no full hook up sites, RV’s, campers etc are welcome on the main event grounds, self contained.www.eastcoastmotorcyclerally.com

WEsT ViRgiNiaMountainfest Motorcycle RallyWednesday, July 23, 2014 - Sunday, July 27, 2014Motorcycle Stunt Shows, Poker Run, Games, Contests, Live Bands, Vendors, Food, and lots more... “MountainFest is the most exciting motorcycle event on the East Coast!” Wild and Wonderful MountainFest is presented by MountainFest, LLC, in cooperation with the Greater Morgantown Convention and Visitors Bureau, and our many generous sponsors. MountainFest, LLC is a 501(c)3 non-profit limited liability corporation. MountainFest, LLC is comprised of area residents from all walks of life who value their community and want to share the magic of West Virginia with bikers everywhere. Proceeds from MountainFest go to non-profit Mylan Park, and the many worthwhile public and private projects underway there. Our long-term goal is to make Wild and Wonderful MountainFest one of the nation’s premier motorcycling events. Plenty of Lodging nearby & Camping is available! See the event website (below) for complete information and schedules.wvmountainfest.com


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yDealers & shopsBusted Knuckles Custom Cycles406 West Race StreetMartinsburg, WV 25401301-260-0070www.bustedknucklescycle.com

Cutting Edge Customs3078 PT. Manion RD #2Morgantown, WV 304-862-6688

Demotto Honda-YamahaRT 33WElkins, WV 26241304-636-5489www.demottohondayamaha.com

Insane Cycles & Muscle Cars285 Don Knotts Blvd.Morgantown, WV 26501304-291-2453www.insanecyclesandmusclecars.com

M&J Motor Company1000 S. Queen StreetMartinsburg, WV 25401304-262-6200www.mjtrikes.com

RG Honda-Yamaha1619 Buckhannon PikeNutter Fort, WV 26301304-624-5420www.rghonda.com

Super Smitty’s RT 33 East Corridor HBuckhannon, WV 26201304-472-4824www.supersmittys.com

The Twisted Spoke97 Milford StreetClarksburg, WV 26301304-326-4644www.twistedspokeinc.com

Triple S Harley DavidsonExit 155 off I-79Morgantown, WV304-284-8244www.tripleshd.com

Wiskybilt137 Harmony Grove Rd.Albright, WV 304-379-BIKEwww.wiskybilt.com

Bars & grillsBeander’s314 Davis AveElkins, WV 304-636-6000

Classic # Resturant & Bar1384 Greenbag Rd.Sabraton, WV 26508304-292-8368www.classic3.com

Duckie’s Bar & Grill2 Locations100 Ashfield St.Piedmont, WV 26750304-355-8887&&&&&&&&&&& RT 28FT Ashby, WV 304-298-3741

Giovannis Restaurant451 US Hwy 33 EWeston, WV 26452304-269-4563

Hickory House1137 US Hwy 19 NorthJane Lew, WV 26378304-269-7373

Hillbilly Grill1235 Stonecoal Lake RdBuckhannon, WV 26201304-471-2223

Homewood Bar & Grill“Home of the Purple Monkey”223 Homewood Rd.Weston, WV 26452304-997-8666

Jane Lew Junction43 Mcwhorter Rd.Jane Lew, WV 26378304-884-6806

Longneck Saloon3787 Earl L. Core Rd Morgantown, WV 26508304-241-1174

Lost River Brewing155 West Main StreetWardensville, WV 304-874-4455www.lostriverbrewing.com

Nan & Pops Place3485 Winchester Ave.Martinsburg, WV 304-267-2007


Biker Friendly Directory

Road Hogs Saloon415 Clayton StreetRivesville, WV 26588304-816-6901

Softails Bar & Grill3414 US Hwy 19 NorthJane Lew, WV 26378304-269-0669

Retail/ FabricationEvil Swing Arms336-847-2476www.evilswingarms.com

Smack Jack & Wack Upholstery1879 Blue Horizon DriveMorgantown, WV 304-328-5707

TattoosThinkin Ink508 Race StreetFairmont, WV 26354304-366-1279

legal servicesBills Bail Bonds401 Spruce StreetP.O. Box 4191Starcity, WV 26504304-296-5009

Law Offices of Ralph C. Buss800-582-5577www.RalphBuss.com

Weatherholtz Bonding306 W. Stephens StreetMartinsburg, WV 25401304-267-5888www.weatherholtzbonding.com

If you would like to be listed in the Biker Friendly Directory, please contact Sales and Marketing or email [email protected] for more information.

If you’re a Club, Foundation, or Association would like to be listed in our Directory, please email [email protected] with your name and contact information and someone will be in touch with you.

Get your business

listed here!! ContaCt rhino:

[email protected] or 681.209-0832


One evening in early December I found myself racing my minivan south on France Avenue in Edina, Minnesota, on snow and freezing covered streets. I

passed one slow poke on the right before realizing it wouldn’t make much sense to be in a car accident so close to where I was going. Better to slow down and arrive in one piece late than not at all.

What was I speeding toward? It was the Southdale 16 Cinema where a screening of the motorcycle documentary “Why We Ride” was being held. I had heard a little bit about the film and even seen its short yet unrevealing trailer. Talk was that this was a reincarnation of “On Any Sunday,” the landmark biker film from the mid-1970s. This screening was part of a soft opening before the film would be officially released internationally in 2014 (DVDs are now available, according to its website, “at motorcycle dealers everywhere”). On the way I thought: Oh sure, I’ll get all worked up, annoy and prod family members, rush through traffic— only to be disappointed. As I have been so many times before.

Not this time. Many motorcyclists have lamented long and loud that too few good motorcycle movies exist. Well, add one more to the A-list of biker flicks, because “Why We Ride” did, indeed, not disappoint.

The movie opens with a motorcycle on a beautiful beach riding toward the audience. The original musical score sets and maintains the mood throughout the movie. The film ends

full circle (as Mrs.Bocek, my senior high school English teacher tried to pound into my head) with another motorcycle on a sunset beach riding away from us as the narrator intones, “…and tomorrow is guaranteed to no one.” In between, the film tells a motorcycle story filled with history, passion, life, fun, and adventure.

Yes, riders are interviewed and they answer the usual questions. When did they first start riding? What was their first bike? How old were they when they got interested in motorcycles? These have all been asked before, but they are necessary ingredients for a two-wheeled yarn. The film moves on with history, from the start of motorcycles, to the effect of Henry Ford on motorcycling, board racing, club development, the “bad-boy” image, and to the growth of the sport as we know it today. I already knew a lot of that stuff, but did you know that board racing—with motorcycles that had no brakes—began with bicycle board races? Motorcycles were used only as pace vehicles until someone got the idea to race them.

But it was with the photography—still, full speed, and slow-motion—where this movie hit its stride. Inspired by “On Any Sunday,” the slow motion study of road racers and motorcross competition is simply stunning. One scene shows a line of ten road racers coming head on through a short S curve, with the lead bike leaned left. Right behind the leader comes more bikes, straight up, with the following riders leaned right. The photography creates a bright slithering and snake-like creature coming right at you. In slow motion. I’ve never seen anything like it.

The film stars Kenny Roberts, Mert Lawwill, Troy Lee, Arlen Ness, Alonzo Bodden, Gloria Struck, Keith Code, Dave Ekins, Jason DiSalvo, Don Emde, Brian Klock, Butch Baer,


Josh Hayes, Melissa Paris, Buzz Kanter, Michael Lichter, Valerie Thompson, Team Peterson, Ted Simon, Dave Barr, and Ed Kretz Jr.

World Champion Kenny Roberts explains how flat track racing helped his road racing and caused him to create the hang off knee-dragging style he invented. Motorcyclist Alonzo Bodden remarked, “Racers nowadays are dragging elbows”. Everyone in the theater roared when he added, “When I drag an elbow, I’m in a crash!”

WWR spent a significant amount of time on female riders. Road Racer Melissa Paris and husband Josh Hayes had a big role in the movie. They are given lots to say about riding, how they met, and how the common denominator is riding and not gender. Laura Klock and her daughters Erika and Karlee discussed how each of them broke Bonneville National Land Speed records, an unprecedented achievement. And Valerie Thompson is interviewed several times. She ends up revealing she is a member of the Motor Maids Motorcycle Club, is 87 years old, and has a goal of riding until she’s 100.

There are stories of inspiration. Ted Simon, author of Jupiter’s Travels, describes his around-the-world ride and his discovery that all peoples of this world have more in common with each other than we don’t. “I have an elevated sense of how good all people of the world are,” he said. He also described his struggles dealing with the superficiality of modern life after he got back from his ride. There is Dave Barr, who lost both legs as a professional soldier, then reclaimed his life by outfitting a Harley-Davidson and eventually riding 83,000 miles on his journey around the globe, a Guinness record, as a double amputee. And finally there is Ed Kretz, to whom a large chunk of the movie is devoted. The film depicts

him as a racing champion in the days when Daytona was held on the beach, a tireless worker, a man’s man, and a beloved and devoted father.

Why We Ride resonated with me in several ways. First, the topic of charity rides is examined. Jay Allen explained that gratitude is a prevalent attitude amongst motorcyclists and one that manifests itself in the many and varied charity rides that go on ceaselessly each riding season. That part is so close to me that I could have written the script for it. Jay’s were my words exactly. Second, there was the theme of going against the grain. In modern times, even with modern machines, to be a biker is to be different in a way that requires self-discovery and more than a little sacrifice. That struck a nerve. When the film dealt with the motorcycle club and bike night scene, Bodden remarked, “Bike nights are

the one place that I don’t have to explain why I have four motorcycles.” I’ve got three and how true, how very true that is. Finally, the urgent need to live life now and revel in our riding passion is examined. More than once, an interviewee described how a ride saved their life, or saved their mind, or helped their family situation. “Tomorrow is guaranteed to no one.”

So, yes, I am jazzed about this movie. Watching it will force you to look at our sport in a new way while at the same time holding fast to our traditions and long-lived practices. Watching it will make your pride swell and help you realize how pure, precious, and special your riding is—that you are part of a community and lineage of passion and adventure.

That’s why we ride.By Darrell BrotenPhoto Credits: Why We Ride Film


NCOM BIKER NEWSBYTES

Compiled & Edited by Bill Bish,

National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM)

2014 PREDICTED TO BE A BREAKOUT YEAR FOR ELECTRIC MOTORCYCLES

Navigant Research recently released a report titled “Electric Vehicles: 10 Predictions for 2014″ in which it is estimated that 700,000 plug-in vehicles will be on the road around the world by the end of this year.The given justifications? Rebounding economies, better products, battery prices that have come down providing competitive price points for e-motorcycles, a large potential clientele that has already had a positive electric experience via e-bicycles, e-scooters and e-mopeds.STUDY SHOWS WOMEN WHO RIDE ARE HAPPIER

The old adage that you never see a motorcycle parked outside the psychiatrist’s office may prove more insightful than previously considered, as a new study reveals that the key to happiness for the better half of U.S. is a bike key!The Harley-Davidson Female Riders Survey, conducted by a leading global insights firm and commissioned by the Harley-Davidson Motor Company, shows that women who ride their own motorcycles are noticeably happier, sexier and more confident than women who don’t ride. After interviewing 1,013 adult female riders and 1,016 adult female non-riders, the findings make it clear that riding a motorcycle greatly improves a woman’s feelings of overall self-worth.• More than twice as many always feel happy (37% of riders vs. 16% of non-riders) • Nearly four times as many always feel sexy (27% of riders vs. 7% of non-riders) • Nearly twice as many always feel confident (35% of riders vs. 18% of non-riders)More than half (53%) of women who ride cite their motorcycle as a key source of happiness, according to the findings, and nearly three in four (74%) believe their lives have improved since they started riding.When it comes to romance, the market research collected by Kelton Global also shows riding can improve relationships, as female motorcyclists are more content than non-riders with:• Communication with their significant other (60% of riders vs. 38% of non-riders) • Physical intimacy (51% of riders vs. 35% of non-riders)More and more women are, in fact, riding. A 2012 study by the Motorcycle Industry Council found that women accounted for 12% of U.S. motorcyclists -- up from 10.5% in 2009, and Milwaukee-based Harley-Davidson is selling more motorcycles to women than all their competitors combined, according to Claudia Garber, Director of Women’s Outreach for Harley-Davidson.

LIMIT ON LEARNER’S PERMITS IN PA

Pennsylvanians who perpetually renew their motorcyclist permits to avoid having to take the state’s motorcycle safety course will soon have their strategy derailed, as a new law will limit the number of times a motorcycle rider can reapply for a learner’s permit to three times in a five-year period. Representative Seth Grove (R-Dover), author of House Bill 892, said some riders have been treating permits like actual licenses since current law allows them to reapply for a permit every year.“Permits are temporary and their purpose is to get riders to obtain full driver’s licenses,” said Rep. Grove. “This legislation will enable riders to learn properly while pushing them to actually get their motorcycle licenses.”Under current law, a permit is valid for one year, but some motorcyclists apply for it year after year so they are never required to take the safety course that’s required to receive the full four-year license, said Charles Umbenhauer, spokesman for ABATE of Pennsylvania, which supported the measure.Umbenhauer told the York Dispatch that the legislation is a continuation of other safety measures for which the ABATE organization has pushed. Grove also introduced legislation that, when signed into law last year, required minors who hold motorcycle permits to successfully complete a free 15-hour riding course.HB 892 passed the House and Senate with little dissent and was signed into law by Governor Tom Corbett.

HELMET USE IN MICHIGAN DROPS AFTER REPEAL, STILL HIGHER THAN NORM

A state survey has found that nearly three-quarters of Michigan motorcyclists wear helmets, down from almost a hundred percent before the state ended mandatory universal helmet use in 2012, letting riders opt out under certain circumstances.Data for the Wayne State University study was collected over the summer by use of video cameras randomly placed across the state, and shows that 73% of motorcyclists in Michigan wear helmets, down from 99.4% in 2006 when the last statewide observation survey was conducted.Still, the authors note that Michigan’s usage rate is 13% higher than the 60% of U.S. riders spotted wearing helmets in a nationwide survey in 2012. Also interesting to note, the current rate of riders wearing helmets is slightly lower than the 74.7% of helmeted riders involved in motorcycle crashes, according to the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning, meaning lidless riders have a somewhat better safety record.The Michigan Department of Highway Safety said that helmet use varies widely among types of riders: 94.5% of people riding sports bikes wore helmets while only 33.3% of riders of choppers and custom bikes did. Female riders and those under 30 and over 60 also wear helmets more frequently.

LOUD MOTORCYCLES TARGETED IN CHICAGO

The city of Chicago is turning a deaf ear to loud motorcycles, so much so that that an alderman has proposed a ten-fold increase in fines for violators, those who change their mufflers to make them louder, according to DNAInfo Chicago.The alderman is calling it a quality of life issue, and his proposal would increase the maximum fine for violations from $100 to $1,000.


GEORGIA RIDER’S FAMILY QUESTIONS FATAL PURSUIT

A young Georgia man was riding his motorcycle to the gym during rush hour when a Richmond County deputy may have broke department policy and gave chase over invalid plates, ending in a fatal crash.The deputy was also on a motorcycle, a vehicle that – because of the risk involved – is “strongly discouraged” from initiating or participating in chases in Richmond and Columbia counties unless extenuating circumstances exist, policy states.According to policy, deputies are justified in beginning a chase even when the only information available is that the suspect hasn’t stopped as ordered, but after a chase has started, policy states that deputies must continuously evaluate the circumstances, such as the initial reason for the pursuit; traffic and weather conditions; time of day; direction of travel; the possible consequences; and most importantly, the safety of the public, the deputy and other law enforcement personnel.“Pursuits may continue if there are reasonable grounds to believe the suspect presents a clear and immediate threat to the safety of others or if the suspect has committed or is attempting to commit a forcible felony,” policy states.The family is considering legal options, but a police spokesman stressed that “while it is the deputy who initiates the traffic stop, it is the violator who initiates the pursuit.”Nationally, the U.S. De part ment of Transportation estimates that 6,000 to 8,000 police chases end in crashes each year, with close to 5,000 people being injured and 500 being killed.

ROAD CRASHES #1 KILLER OF AMERICANS ABROAD

Road crashes have been named the leading cause of unnatural death among Americans who travel outside of the country, where they are unfamiliar with local driving rules and customs, and more U.S. citizens die in car or motorcycle accidents than from terrorist events according to a new study from Johns Hopkins University.Using data from the U.S. State Department that represented 5,417 unnatural deaths between January 2003 and December 2009, the research team calculated the rates of death by dividing the number of unnatural deaths by the number of Americans who visited each country.“We know that the distribution of road traffic fatalities varies dramatically across different parts of the world,” Huseyin Naci, from the London School of Economics and Political Science, told Reuters news service. “While pedestrian deaths are more common in many parts of Africa, motorcycle and bicycle deaths occur more frequently in southeast Asia.”Out of all the countries deemed unsafe for travel, Thailand ranked first among the most traffic-related deaths with 16.5 deaths per one million visits. Vietnam came in second with 15 deaths per one million visits, Morocco third with 12 deaths per one million visits, and South Africa fourth with 11 deaths per one million visits. Researchers also reported that scooter and motorcycle deaths accounted for a large portion of traffic-related deaths.

MANDATORY HI-VIS REFLECTIVE CLOTHING LEGISLATED

Effective January 1, 2014, it is mandatory for all motorcyclists and passengers to wear reflective jackets or vests when riding in the Republic of Mauritius, an island country in the south west Indian Ocean off the coast of Africa.Road Traffic Regulations passed last fall regarding “Use of High Visibility Clothing” states;“No person shall drive (or ride as a pillion rider on) a motorcycle or auto cycle, unless he wears high visibility clothing without any covering being worn over it that may cause obstruction to its visibility.”The regulations even dictate the type of polyester material, size of reflective strips and specific fluorescent colors (lime yellow, red or orange) “intended to provide conspicuity at all times.”Any person who contravenes these regulations shall commit an offence and shall, on conviction, be liable to a fine not exceeding 1,000 Mauritian Rupees (MUR).

BAN ON MOTORBIKES IMPOSED IN SCOTTISH WOODLANDS

Scottish Police say that members of the pubic visiting Balkello Woods have been left “frustrated and concerned” by the irresponsible and illegal use of motorcycles in the area, both on and off road.Police Scotland and the Forestry Commission have joined forces in announcing a major crackdown on unauthorized motor vehicles in the woodlands; “Powers granted under Road Traffic and Anti-Social Behaviour legislation allow the police to seize vehicles – including motorcycles and mini-motos – where they have been driven without license or insurance, or, in this scenario, where they are used in an anti-social manner.”A force spokesman said: “Officers have long focused on reducing the anti-social and illegal use of motorcycles and make full use of Anti-Social and Road Traffic legislation to seize motorcycles that are being used illegally. Following enforcement, many of the vehicles seized are ultimately dismantled and crushed.”DUCK AND COVER Like ‘em or love ‘em, the rift over the redneck Robertson clan from A&E Network’s top-rated “Duck Dynasty” showed that America still has a backbone, and Americans can influence change if enough of us stand together. After the network suspended Phil Robertson over anti-gay comments, a grassroots tsunami of people from all walks of life lit up phone lines, email inboxes and fax machines as the surge of incoming communications quickly became so intense, employees of the cable giant reportedly complained that the company was overwhelmed and had all but ground to a halt.The uproar continued through Christmas until Friday, December 27, when A&E announced it was lifting the suspension and the show will continue.Millions of citizens -- many who had never taken any kind of action before – had successfully sprang to the defense of a man and his right to speak freely, irrespective of PC. If the Duck Dynasty flap proves anything, it’s that -- when pushed too far -- concerned Americans will rise up in response!QuoTAblE QuoTE: “Dissent is the highest form of patriotism.”~ Howard Zinn (1922-2010) American historian & social activist


here’s to 2 0 1 4

Well it’s January in the Midwest. You know, the dreaded time of the year for us who live for two wheels. It’s so difficult to maintain the cheery disposition that I’m known for during these cold, dark months. I guess we can all use the time to do some much needed tuning on the old cycle. I typically ride it until it breaks during the riding season. It could defiantly use some long overdue maintenance. I’m guessing I’m not alone in that.

I was thinking back over 2013 when I started writing the column for January this week. Thinking about the things that sparked my interest, and the things that pissed me off. I witnessed some new clubs pop up and some go away. Lost some friends to their vices, and made some new friends too. Shed a few Club Brothers who’s lives took a different directions, or they just put their head up their @%s, and we’ve gained a few keepers too I believe. We sure did cram a lot into the riding season as a club this past year. Although looking back it felt like the time just flew by. We held our annual Cinco De Mayo party in May, and then it was already Ohio Bike week in a flash. Followed by Wetzel, and quite a few rides and parties in between. We then finished up with our Dia De Los Muertos party this past fall. The weather turned to crap right after it seemed. I haven’t had to park the bike so early in the year in a very long time. We kept hoping for an Indian summer but it never came this year. I’ll tell you, when old man winters sets his grip on the Midwest, it’s a chore just to go out and get with the brothers some weeks. Everyone just wants to hibernate, and who can blame them! It would seem that southern Florida or maybe San Diego are the only places immune to the bite of winter these days. Although I really shouldn’t complain. It seemed a lot worse back in the seventies when I was growing up, but I can’t tell if it was just my perception as a kid, or was it really worse? I think we just had more of a set four seasons than these days. One winter it barely gets below forty degrees, and the next it’s sub zero. See, it’s gotten so bad I’m stuck talking about the damn weather. Lol!

I probably shouldn’t be writing this on a Monday night in the Dead of winter. Nothing more depressing than that! I hope you are some of the fortunate that get make the trip down to Daytona for Bike Week this Spring! Being early March sure will help to chase away the winter blues! The last time me and the Ole Lady went was probably about 09 or 10. It was pretty damn cold down there that year for Florida. In fact we took off and headed south and didn’t stop until Key West! I’d like to make the trip this year, but not sure yet. Being so far north it’s a major haul and expense. But hell, it’s not like 80% of the country won’t need a break by the time we get through this winter! It will be a good time as always I’m sure. I guess we better start making plans now or get left out in the cold!

In the mean time, we will have to settle with a few Swap Meets coming up this winter, and I know Easy Rider Bike Show makes a tour this winter too. So we’ll have to feed ourselves on gearing up for the road ahead, and start making our plans for getting in the wind as soon as possible come Spring! I know this Biker is counting the days! I may just have to fly

down to Ft. Lauderdale this winter for a long weekend and rent a Harley from old Petersons HD in Miami and make a run through the keys! The warm wind and sun on my face would sure feel good about now!

Well, it was a pleasure sharing with you in 2013, and I hope your New Year brings plenty of Gas, Grass and @$$! Here’s to 2014!

TabascoThunder Roads Ohio

[email protected]

Our 2013 Wetzel Camp


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