JULY 2022 #218
Contents
JULY ISSUE 218
FEATURES
Choppertown Live Summer Daze Orange County Choppers Roadhouse Great American Biker Bash Riding the Dragon Slayer Eastern Kentucky Born Free 100%
COLUMNS
22
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James Irwin-A Biker Helping Bikers Nefarious James CMA Spyke & Mike
DEPARTMENTS
Contents Page Letter From The Editor Dave Nichols Ride Sage Ride Smart - Think Motorcycle Born To Ride Kids
REPORTS
Choppertown Live Summer Daze Sunday August 21st 2022 Photo: Erick Runyon
Start Born To Ride TV and Magazine in your city! Call 888-795-5779
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Ride Safe Ride Smart-Think Motorcycle 886-Law-Fran Red Star Live Wednesday Bike Night Fidelis Automotive Join the Born To Ride Group Bert’s Great American Bike Night
ON THE COVER
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8 14 16 52 55
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The information contained herein is provided by Born To Ride Magazine or by its advertisers. BTR makes every effort to present accurate and reliable information in the issue. Born To Ride Magazine does not endorse, approve, or certify such information, nor does it guarantee the accuracy, completeness, efficacy, timeliness or correct sequencing of such information throughout this magazine. Use of such information is voluntary on your part, and reliance on it should only be undertaken after your independent review. Reference herein to any specific manufacturer, company, commercial product, process, or service by trade name, trademark, service mark, or otherwise does not constitute or imply endorsement of or recommendation of said by Born To Ride Magazine.” “Born To Ride Magazine (including its employees, contributors and agents) assumes no responsibility for consequences that may result from the use of the information herein, including the use of the information obtained at www.borntoride.com and it’s linked sites, or in any respect for the content of such information, including (but not limited to) errors or omissions, the accuracy or reasonableness of factual or scientific assumptions, studies or conclusions, ownership of copyright or other intellectual property rights, and the violation of property, privacy, or personal rights of others. BTR Magazine is not responsible for damages of any kind arising out of use, reference to, or reliance on such information. No guarantees or warranties, including (but not limited to) any express or implied warranties are made by BTR Magazine with respect to such information contained throughout the site.” No part may be copied without written permission of the publisher, Born To Ride, Inc. P.O. Box 3021, Brandon, FL 33509. 888-795-5779, Fax 813-689-2996.
Progressive Casualty Ins. Co. & affiliates. Coverage subject to policy terms.
YOUR SISTER ’S DOG’S BIRTHDAY PARTY
Protect your escape with Progressive. Progressive knows that the best part of any event is leaving on your bike. That’s why we offer comprehensive and collision coverage for your bike and more. See if you could save by switching to America’s #1 motorcycle insurer.
BORN TO RIDE Magazine
PO BOX 3021 Brandon, FL 33509 PUBLISHER
Ron Galletti 813-785-3895 888-795-5779 rg@borntoride.com
CO PUBLISHER
Deb Galletti dgalletti@borntoride.com
EDITOR
Dave Nichols editor@borntoride.com
ART DIRECTOR
Peter Soutullo art@borntoride.com
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Erick Runyon
ART DEPARTMENT
Juan Guzman, Jared Hartman, Erick Runyon , Peter Soutullo, Craig Miller, Beatnik Steve Werner art@borntoride.com
WEB DESIGN/ELECTRONIC MEDIA Juan Guzman
OFFICE ADMINISTRATION Nancy Ray nray@borntoride.com
MULTI-MEDIA SPECIALIST Jared Hartman, Craig Miller Jasper Harris
SALES & MARKETING 888-795-5779
ROAD CREW
Vick Velosity, Mark Crowder, Doug Bright, Birdman Mike,
SCENIC RIDE CONSULTANT Steve Finzelber-Finz Finds
ON THE ROAD TEAM
The John & Heather Show
CONTRIBUTORS
JP Brady, Neale Bayly, Susan Hurst, Spyke & Mike, Eric Albright, Eric Vician, Myra McElhaney, Paul Murray, James Gladstone Greg Blackwell, Felicia Morgan, John Sullivan
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Ron & Selena Hawks, Chris Miller, Scott Odel, Eric Albright, Chopper Dave, JP Brady, Erick Runyon, Craig Miller, Vic Lawall
LAW FIRM
FRAN HAASCH LAW GROUP www.LawFran.com 866 LAW Fran BORN TO RIDE OFFICE
888-795-5779 BTR 4 | BORNTORIDE.COM
Letter from the Editor
DAVE NICHOLS
FROM THE HELM BIG BIKER DOIN’S IN THE SUNSHINE STATE! HOWDY BROTHERS AND SISTERS! Welcome to the red. white, and blue July issue of Born To Ride. Come with us as we reveal the story of three intrepid men on a mission. We’ll introduce you to Bert King of Bert’s Barracuda Harley-Davidson, where Born To Ride takes part in Bert’s Bike Night every Thursday night. You’ll also meet Keith Overton who partnered with Bert to create an incredible biker country club. Keith brought in Paul Teutul Senior, famous head honcho of Orange County Choppers, and together, the three amigos put together the OCC Road House & Museum!
Find out how Born To Ride is partnering with these three motorized powerhouses to create new amazing events such as The Great American Biker Bash that’s coming this August 21st with live vendors, a ridein chopper show, great food and drink, and a killer concert by none other than Sons of Anarchy’s own Preacher Stone! Believe me, he puts on one helluva show. The Choppertown Live Summer Daze show will feature ten classes of custom motorcycles by such world-class builders as Kyle Ray Rice, Buttera’s Metal Werx, Weems Motor Company, It’ll Ride Choppers, YogisGarage, Low Road Customs and many, many more! Ride on out to Tampa Bay’s ultimate two-wheeled destination and meet Paul Senior himself. The whole incredible story on how the OCC Road House & Museum came to be is just a page turn away! We’re extremely proud to act as the media partner in promoting the OCC Road House & Museum and The Great American Biker
Bash this August 21st. But wait, there’s more! The jazzy July issue of Born To Ride is packed with uplifting content that captures travel and adventure on two wheels. Including an awesome article on riding in Kentucky and the Appalachian Back Roads by Indian Rider Bill. Plus, meet James Irwin who will break out ideas and opportunities that could have a positive impact on your retirement plans. His money school teaches how to utilize money marketing for a brighter future. That’s something we all need.
Hey, I’m still not done! These pages also feature the latest rant by Nefarious James, a rib-ticklin’ rave by Spyke & Mike, and news of the Cave Spring Motorcycle Rally & Music Festival in Georgia that is happening on July 30th! And, yes, there will be a Born To Ride Choppertown Live ride-in bike show featuring droolworthy street cruisers, imports, old school bobbers, custom choppers, badass baggers, and everyday rides. Ride out to Cave Springs on the 30th for a day of pure biker goodness as only Born To Ride can throw it at ‘cha! That’s it for this issue, brothers and sisters, I’m packin’ up to head out to Sturgis for that righteous rally in the Black Hills next month. Come on out to the Sturgis Buffalo Chip and meet me at the Engine Bar. Classic Easyriders will be awarding our Sweepstakes prize of the ultimate replica of the Captain America chopper from the film Easy Rider. Come on by and have a beer with me!
— Dave Nichols editor@borntoride.com
You’re riding your motorcycle to work just after sunrise, traveling down a typical suburban street lined with car-filled driveways. As you approach one of these driveways a car begins to move and backs out directly into your path. You brake hard and come to a stop just inches away from its rear bumper. Strategy: Given the hour of day and the type of neighborhood, you could have expected to encounter at least a few drivers backing out of their driveways and heading off to work. Other clues include drivers getting into their cars as you approach, or a tell-tale puff of exhaust warning you that the car has been started and is preparing to leave. Watch for brake lights and backup lights, too. If you observe any of the above warning signs, take the following precautions: Slow your pace and prepare to stop, if necessary. Keep your eyes up and cover the front brake lever and rear brake pedal. Stabilize your speed so that if the car does begin to move out into your path, you have sufficient space to stop. If there isn’t room or time to slow to a stop, scan for an escape route to swerve into. If there is no oncoming traffic, swerve to the left; if this route isn’t available, consider swerving to the right.
For more information go to www.msf-usa.org
A Biker Helping
Bikers
JAMES IRWIN HELPS GET YOU ON THE ROAD TO RETIREMENT
I’d like to share with you a story that I heard from Chris and Tracy, a couple my wife and I are close friends with. Once upon a time, they decided to fly to California to rent a Harley and take in the scenery of California, Nevada, and Arizona. At first, the trip went very well. The scenery was breathtaking, and the highway breeze was just perfect to keep them cool as they rode through the desert. As the morning stretched into the afternoon, Chris’ heart dropped as he noticed the fuel gauge dipping into the empty zone. Then he saw a road sign saying lodging and fuel 100 miles ahead. He decided to pull over and tell his wife on the deserted highway. Suddenly, the mood of the trip changed. Chris and Tracy became irritable, and panic stricken. They started driving slower to save fuel, which intensified the heat adding to the stress of the ride. The scenery no longer mattered. They both fixated on the fuel gauge. They knew they were gonna run out of gas. They just didn’t know when. This story is a great metaphor for how some people live through retirement. They spend all their quality time worrying how to make their money last. They know it’s only a matter of time that taxes and inflation will eat up their savings. So, the end result is that they live like hermits trapped in their home, getting old. Folks, I’m here to tell you it doesn’t need to be that way. There are simple, painless solutions. Ever use a GPS to get to the destination you want to get to? They are wonderful to use and take away the stress of having to think about where you need to turn, etc. We have the technology BTR 10 | BORNTORIDE.COM
now to create a custom retirement / Wealth creation GPS for you. We are on a mission nationally to get people out of debt, to build wealth and become financially independent. Before I talk about that, let tell you how the Chris and Tracy story ends. Well, sure enough, they ran out of gas and the powerful Harley gave out it last potato-potato-potato signature sound. As they got off the bike, looking at each other with sad helpless eyes, they saw something in the distance. Their view of the road behind them looked like a mirage. Chris said he felt like a thirsty man in the desert, hallucinating about seeing water in the distance. But sure enough, a vehicle was heading their way. It was pickup truck with a motorcycle in the truck bed. The couple driving the truck were named Ron and JD. They of course stopped, and asked how they could help.
“We are on a mission nationally to get people out of debt, to build wealth and become financially independent.”
After siphoning some gas for them, they agreed to follow the couple to next gas station. Bikers helping bikers, folks. What a great community to be a part of. As you know, bikers are a very charitable people, giving back to the community in many meaningful ways. I’m a fellow biker as well and that is why, with the help of many generous people, we are going to
offer bi-monthly money school webinars, absolutely free to Born To Ride readers. And no, these are not the typical boring classes just can’t wait to be over or skip. These are 20-minute sessions that will give the information you need to know and have but have probably never heard about. They are visual webinars on your computer, tablet or you can just dial in and listen from a phone. A sampling of some of the topics to be discussed includ : 1.) ”Social Security basics” how to maximize your benefits; 2.) “Don’t worry, retire happy” smart tips and important steps to retirement planning; 3.) “Tax-free retirement “going from tax deferred to tax free with or without an IRA; 4.) “Legacy planning” wills, trust, estate planning and caring for the ones you love; 5.) “Do’s and Don’ts for baby boomers” deep dives into Medicare, Medicaid, VA benefits, long term care or shall we say, retirement insurance; 6.) “Your mortgage” make it an asset, not a liability; 7.) “Mission one million” the book, the movement, and how you can become a part of it. Myself and other financial experts have watched too many people’s lives crash because they were not financially prepared. In upcoming issues I will be sharing insight on these pages on how to never run out of financial fuel and create your own GPS for financial freedom. Go to my website now www. healthinsurance65.com or call 833467-2865 and get your Mission One Million book now. The book is for anyone wanting to get out of debt, build wealth, and create financial independence. The book retails for $24.95 but I bought it for you. Bikers helping bikers, that’s what it’s all about. --James Irwin
Monday July 18th 7 PM Tune into your Money School Webinar info 833-467-2865
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Last Wednesday of Every Month is Red Star Live Bike Night
LIVE MUSIC!
In case you haven’t seen the memo, ‘lifted trucks are the new black’. Long gone are the days that pick ups were only thought to be driven by farm hands, cowboys and construction workers. Lifted Trucks are as mainstream and American as ‘baseball, hotdogs, apple pie and chevrolet’ and we know just the man to help you get that ‘oh so perfect’ ride height for your cargo crawler. Meet Jeremy Breher of Fidelis Automotive. Jeremy Breher has the confidence and the skill set to get things done quickly, effectively and correctly when it comes to not only lifting trucks, but with almost all things automotive. This is a mindset he brought with him after he served from 2007 to 2011 w the U.S. Marine Corps. After serving his tour of duty in Afghanistan, he came to a crossroads in life - Should he stay in the Marine Corps, or as another option, go back to school, get his degree and reenlist as an officer? He came to the conclusion that he could accomplish more for himself, and his country, by going back to school. Being the go getter that Jeremy is, while attending school in 2012, he started Fidelity Automotive Services of Tampa. Through 2015 Jeremy ’burned the candle at both ends’ by attending school and running a business. His business became so successful that he decided to not reenlist and pursue a full time career in the automotive industry. In 2017, Jeremy started Fidelis Automotive in the heart of Brandon, Florida and he hasn’t looked back.
In the time span between 2017 and 2021 Jeremy and his capable crew at Fidelis Automotive have garnered quite a reputation for getting things done, quickly and correctly. They are able to tackle just about any issue from wheels to wiring on any make and model of vehicle, foriegn and domestic.
In the last couple years though, Fidelis Automotive has become the ‘go to place’ to get that pick up truck lifted to just about any height, in any manner that suits your particular taste. His specialized team has been in the ‘lifting’ game for many years. They are known to be the best in the business, and though it’s not about ‘speed’, they can typically get the job done in half the time of their competitors. Just as he once was as a Marine, Jeremy takes pride in himself, his team, his business and has the confidence in getting the mission done correctly for his client and customers.
VETERAN OWNED , TRUSTED QUALITY SERVICE FOR ALL YOUR CAR AND TRUCK NEEDS.
FIDELIS AUTOMOTIVE 3146 E. SR 60 Valrico FL 33594 | 813-730-3473
THREE MEN ON A POWERFUL MOTORIZED MISSION BORN TO RIDE GREAT AMERICAN BIKER BASH IS COMING SUNDAY AUGUST 21ST!
This is the tale of three wise men who love motorcycles and the biker lifestyle and how they put their heads together to create a one-of-a-kind country club for bikers and riders’ destination in Clearwater, Florida. This farout facility includes a restaurant, concert venue, and motorcycle museum to bring the Orange County Choppers (OCC) experience to life. Born To Ride has teamed up with Keith Overton, Paul Teutul Senior of Orange County Choppers, and Bert King of Bert’s Barracuda Harley-Davidson for “Bert’s Great American Bike Night” every Thursday, powered by attorney Fran Haasch as well as other kickass events including the Born To Ride “Great American Biker Bash” on Sunday, August 21. The all-day event will capture the biker lifestyle like no other, complete with our Choppertown Live Ride-in Chopper Show and live music by Preacher Stone in concert! This will be the ultimate summer mega bash for all who love a killer party. You can even shake hands with the star of America Chopper, Paul Teutul Senior himself! How did all this come to be? Let us introduce the men who made it happen. Bert King is an inspiring businessman who developed his outstanding Bert’s Barracuda Harley-Davidson and Bert’s Black Widow BTR 22 | BORNTORIDE.COM
Harley-Davidson dealerships. Bert’s Barracuda Harley-Davidson in Clearwater is the place to go for all your two-wheeled and three-wheeled needs and it is home to the biggest American flag in Florida! It is 100 feet by 50 feet and 200 feet tall. We asked Bert about his background and how he got into owning Harley dealerships. “I come from the car industry,” he tells us. “And spent many successful years learning the business and worked my ass off to get to the top and to own a number of formidable dealerships in Texas. I always told my family it was my dream to own a Harley-Davidson motorcycle dealership, and when I sold my last car dealership, I set my eyes on Florida and first acquired what is today Bert’s Black Widow Harley-Davidson Dealership in Port Charlotte.” “I have always thought big and done everything big,” Bert grins. “Once Black Widow was revitalized and producing great results, I learned of an opportunity to acquire an existing dealership in St Petersburg, which of course is today Bert’s Barracuda Harley-Davidson. I knew the old site on 54th Avenue North was too small for my appetite and wouldn’t allow me to create a true country club for bikers, so I acquired the old 49er Flea Market at 10525 49th
Street North in Pinellas Park, which had been out of business for a number of years. I knew the details of the new and improved roadways that were coming, and that this property was centrally and perfectly located for all of Tampa Bay to access. I then had to plan and develop the property in order to finally achieve my vision.” “We developed the property in stages but first laid-in all of the infrastructure for the entire site under a unified construction plan. I knew I wanted a formidable restaurant on campus but hadn’t yet developed those details and didn’t even know who would own and operate it, so I planned the site with this in mind. We kept a couple of the existing buildings but demolished everything else. We then installed all of the parking to include the rider’s academy, which is used for students who are obtaining their DMV motorcycle endorsement, and actually the first new building erected was what is today Bert’s Pavilion Live. We temporarily operated the dealership from that building while the new showroom was being built.” “After meeting with my buddy Keith Overton to seek his advice on what kind of restaurant I should plan for, he fell in love with my vision and confidentially shared with me that he and Paul Teutul Senior were planning to
“I am proud that my vision has been achieved and I am having the time of my life. I love the Tampa Bay community, my team of professionals, my great customers, and of course…. most of all, my family.” –– Bert King build a restaurant brand together. The lights went on for both of us and we struck a deal to make the campus home to the first OCC Road House and to anchor it with a Museum element. Simultaneously, to our building the new showroom, Keith began to plan the restaurant and started construction the week. We moved into the new showroom and literally 120 days later, had the restaurant built and operating (June of 2021).” “We were off to the races and haven’t looked back,” Bert says. “I am proud that my vision has been achieved and I am having the time of my life. I love the Tampa Bay community, my team of professionals, my great customers, and of course…. most of all, my family. I hope it shows in everything
I do! I am also very excited to partner with Born To Ride. Their weekly videos capture who we are and what we’re all about, but to truly understand just how special this country club for bikers is, you have to come and see it for yourself and immerse yourself in the energy that’s created every day.”Bert King, having a vision to create a country club for bikers, got together with Keith Overton, his good friend and owner of notable restaurants and resorts, to turn the Bert’s Barracuda Harley-Davidson’s ten-acre campus into something bigger and more unique than anything in Florida. Overton, loving King’s vision, then solicited Paul Teutul to create a licensing partnership with him and to retire all of his notable choppers and memorabilia
that were featured on the hit TV Show, American Chopper inside the OCC Road House & Museum. Overton and King built a shop for Senior right on campus for Senior to continue his legendary bike builds and the rest is history. One year later, the entire complex has become the “place to be”! Born To Ride recently sat down with OCC Road House & Museum owner Keith Overton to get the inside scoop about his strategy for how to best fulfil his buddy Bert’s vision for the campus. “I have found success over the past 25 years creating and operating unique destination resorts and restaurants. Over this time, I have observed lots of concepts come and go and developed a good understanding as to why. In my experience
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there are two simple principles in creating a successful destination restaurant concept. Those are unique beach or waterfront dining and absent owning real estate with these magnificent natural resources, unique lifestyle brands that authentically represent the people and the surroundings that the concept is located within.” We asked Keith to share an example of a successful concept that he has been a part of that embraces those principles. “An example of one concept that my team and I created was RumFish Grill. The main store on St Pete Beach featured a 33K gallon fish tank that showcased over 150 fish from 40 different species found right here in the Tampa Bay waters. Customers could actually swim in the tank with the fish. Local fish art is displayed everywhere throughout and a retail store that features the largest selection of fishing apparel in the market, including an
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exclusive line of Guy Harvey fishing clothing and merchandise.” “The RumFish Grill concept became wildly popular and has grown to five locations in the Tampa Bay market. Two of the stores were featured on the hit Animal Planet TV show, Tanked. How did Keith come up with the idea for the OCC Road House & Museum? It all started with his passion for motorcycles. “I find that creating and building these concepts around lifestyles that I personally love and participate in, brings a unique understanding of what the targeted customer wants and what is often missing in other offerings.” In other words, Keith keeps it real and always has a personal connection. “Tampa Bay has more motorcycle enthusiasts than virtually anywhere else in the country, demonstrated through DMV
registrations,” Keith says. “Great weather and the Florida lifestyle lend well to those who want wind in their face and outdoor excitement. So, it made perfect sense to create a licensing company with my friend Paul Teutul Senior and build a motorcyclethemed destination restaurant and entertainment venue right on the campus of the already famous Bert’s Barracuda HarleyDavidson.” “Paul Teutul Senior is arguably the most notable motorcycle builder in the country and the creator of Orange County Choppers. Paul and OCC have become well-known around the world due to the tremendously popular Discovery hit TV show American Chopper, which is centered around Paul, his family, and the bikes they build. His TV series is not only loved by those who own and ride motorcycles, but by those who dream about the lifestyle and love
his true American success story. Paul and OCC created a fan base of mothers, kids, families, veterans, and business people who have grown to love the drama of his crazy adventures. Paul ranks in the top five people to be featured in the most-shared memes across all social media outlets.” Speaking of, we had a chance to ask Paul Senior a few questions about how the OCC Road House & Museum came to be and here is what he told us. “I met Keith awhile back and he asked us to build a couple of bikes for him. We talked about doing a restaurant and museum together and decided to do it right next to Bert’s Barracuda Harley-Davidson. I met Bert through Keith and we became friends right away. He is a good guy and an honest guy. A real straight shooter.” When asked what he likes about the OCC Road House & Museum, Paul says, “We’ve been open a year and we are up percentage-wise quite a bit. I’m really happy with it. My favorite part is eating there. I like the alligator bites and plant-based impossible burgers.” Paul is a huge animal lover and pescatarian. “The salads are good and the salmon is great. I don’t eat red meat and there’s a good variety of food there for me.” Believe it or not, Paul is still building bikes virtually every day at his new Florida shop located right on campus. So, he goes right next door to the OCC Road House & Museum for lunch most days. Imagine what fans of American Chopper must think when they stop in for a meal or to check out the museum, and there’s Paul Senior! “I usually eat lunch there because I work in the shop there. I take a lot of pictures and sign a lot of autographs. People tell their friends that they met me there. It’s great for the fans.” Besides being able to get a photo with Paul or shake his hand and get an autograph, we asked him why people should check out the OCC Road House & Museum. “The number one reason to visit the OCC Road House is that the museum is really cool. There is 20 years of memorabilia on the walls and all the bikes we did in the TV series. People come from all around to see the famous Fireman bike and P.O.W. bike.”
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This brings us up to speed with how the OCC Road House & Museum venue came to be. Now, let’s take a look inside. “OCC Road House & Museum opened in June of 2021 and is home to eleven of the most notable bike builds from the TV Show, American Chopper,” Keith Overton tells us. “Senior did an amazing job decorating the walls and laying out the museum. The entire building is filled with two decades of memorabilia that is a must-see for anyone, whether they are a fan of the TV Show or not. OCC Road House & Museum has only been open for one year but this one-of-kind destination BTR 26 | BORNTORIDE.COM
restaurant and entertainment venue has been incredibly well-received in the Tampa Bay, Clearwater and St. Petersburg market.” “However, this destination restaurant and entertainment complex is no simple biker bar! In fact, there’s nothing like it in the State of Florida,” Keith confides. “The 11,400 square foot building, which is attached to a 25,000 square foot covered pavilion, has over 500 seats, two large bars, a 4,000 square foot kitchen, 64 massive flatscreen TVs, outdoor fire pit tables with comfy cushions and sofas, five big ass fans in the open-air covered pavilion to keep you cool, a large retail store
with great merch that you can only purchase here. There are many free games including pool tables, shuffleboard tables, foosball and wall hooky. But what is most impressive are the two large band stages with a first-class sound and lighting system. OCC Road House has entertainment every day of the week.” Like what, you ask with jaws agape? Check out the OCC Road House & Museum weekly schedule: MONDAYS - Cornhole tournament and trivia night. TUESDAYS – Country line dancing with a DJ and free dance lessons from our instructor. WEDNESDAYS – The largest Truck Night in Florida and country line dancing with a live band and free dance lessons from our instructor. THURSDAYS – The largest Bike Night in Florida, Bert’s Great American Bike Night with live bands, over 40 vendors, bike shows, stunt shows, burn-outs, big wheel races, a ride simulator, over $1,000 in giveaways, a weekly Facebook Live broadcast and much more. WEEKENDS – Filled with regional bands and national recording artists, large-scale events, poker runs, charity fundraisers and the first Sunday of every month is pet adoption day with over 30 vendors, pet races and pet fashion shows – OCC Road House & Museum is the most pet friendly venue in Tampa Bay. “We are super excited to be able to team up with Born To Ride Magazine, one of the most read biker magazines in the US. We are a firstclass restaurant and entertainment venue that is always looking to partner with other top-notch organizations such as Born To Ride,” says Keith Overton. Join Born To Ride every Thursday night for Bert’s Great American Bike Night and don’t forget the ultimate two-wheeled and three-wheeled party on Sunday, August 21 when Born To Ride brings you the “Great American Biker Bash” with lots of live vendors, our Choppertown Live ride-in Chopper Show, and killer live music by Preacher Stone, plus lip-smackin’ food and drink at the OCC Road House restaurant and bars. It’s all comin’ at ya at the “Great American Biker Bash” this August 21 at Bert’s Harley-Davidson and the OCC Road House & Museum. Ride out and meet Paul Teutul Senior! As Paul says, “Don’t miss the opportunity to come by. We’re more than a restaurant and a museum, we’re a destination!” We’ll see you there. --Dave Nichols
OCC ROAD HOUSE & MUSEUM 10575 49TH ST N, CLEARWATER, FL 33762 OCCROADHOUSE.COM
Don’t Miss the Great American Biker Bash Sun Aug 21 thanks to 866 LAW FRAN
RIDING THE DRAGONSLAYER In my last column I mentioned pointing my bike in a direction, any direction, instead of having a predetermined route or destination in mind. Well, I kind of did both recently. Last week I pointed my bike north into Kentucky. East Kentucky, to be exact. I connected with a friend who’s the motorsports event coordinator for Backroads of Appalachia, Mr. Jay Fryman. Jay, as his title infers, is responsible for marketing, and delivering a total motorsport’s tourism initiative. I say total because it includes motorcycles, adventure/dual sport bikes, side by sides, Slingshots, and a vast number of car clubs with the end game of getting drivers and riders alike on the roads of east Kentucky. The overarching organization, Backroads of Appalachia, and its Founder and Director, Mr. Erik Hubbard, in conjunction with 32 county Chambers of Commerce and tourism heads, envisioned reviving the forgotten coal communities of Eastern
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Kentucky through the development of a comprehensive motorsport tourism strategy. Part of that strategy includes trail development. So that we’re clear, a “Trail” is a designated route on current day highways, byways and of course, backroads. And right now, there are over 31 paved trails that snake, wind, and climb their way through some of the best riding in the country. Jay wanted me to ride the trail that inspired it all, The Dragonslayer-160. Leaving from Williamsburg, Kentucky and heading east, I had the opportunity to ride with a road crew from the Whitley County Riders Group as we rode out to Lynch, to connect to The Dragonslayer. The journey was as beautiful as you can imagine, rolling hills, hollers, and the countryside of Kentucky. And if the beauty and roads aren’t enough, the region is rich, I mean rich with history. As we rolled along, passing the rustic ruggedness of abandoned mines and the communities that once fueled the Industrial Revolution, and an occasional Civil War memorial, I realized that this was also the region of the famous Hatfield and McCoy feud. The Dragonslayer-160 comes in with 226 curves in 22 miles. It also boasts the highest mountain peak in Kentucky, Black
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Mountain at 4,144’ where it overlooks one of the largest strip mines in the Appalachia Mountain chain, and then rapidly drops down into Appalachia, Virginia, the official start of the Dragonslayer-160. Upon arriving at Lynch, we stopped at the welcome center to meet up with Erik and other riders. It’s important to note that part of the revitalization of these communities is workforce development and employment. Because this is truly a community effort; the welcome centers are predominantly staffed with those in addiction recovery. While at the Lynch welcome center, Jay handed me one of their latest Trail cards, a 4” x 9.5” laminated card with a trail on each side. It’s not enough that there are over 32 trails, all of them uniquely named for Kentucky; Revenue Runner, To The Holler, Miners Slope 179, The Appalachian Autobahn and so forth, there are also trail cards that depict a geographical layout, a map if you will, of the trail and QR codes to scan for points of interest, fuel, food, attractions and more. Slip it in your pocket and go. Coming out later in June, is their interactive App. Simply scan the QR code and it’ll upload to your phone for point-to-point and turn-by-turn navigation. All in all, there are over 2,600 miles of pristine trails and hundreds of points of interest on the trail cards. If you’re interested in the re-discovery of America by getting on the road, be sure to check out BackroadsofAppalachia.org. Let’s Ride Eastern Kentucky! –Indian Rider Bill
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BORN-FREE 10
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“Born Free back to basics motorcycle event built on the shared passion of
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PHOTOS BY ERICK RUNYON
people building and riding their motorcycles‘. 2022 was #13” - Mike & Grant , Owners
BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 39
AMERI CAN Here we go for July. Of course the big celebration in July is, of course, the 4th. On July 4th,1776 the Continental Congress formally adopted the Declaration of Independence, which had been written largely by Thomas Jefferson. Though the vote for actual independence took place on July 2nd, 1776. July 4th became the day that was celebrated as the birth of American independence. In plain English, it’s America’s Formal Birthday as a country. So how is our 246-year -old country doing? Well, that’s subjective I suppose. I would say that can be stated for the condition of our entire planet. Hard to tell if this is a wake-up call or a permanent downward spiral towards anarchy. I can say a ton of things on this position, but I’m considered to be a hater enough. The 4th of July for me is probably one of the most important holidays this country has. If I may say, probably important to the whole planet. Some will disagree, and that’s fine, but I’ll explain this. The birth of this nation was created by a people being oppressed and unfairly treated by an entity much stronger, better equipped and let’s face it, brutal. At the time, this tiny colony had decided they had had enough and decided to make a stand. That they would no longer be forced to pay excessive taxes, be under compensated for hard labor, to basically be used to enrich others’ lives while they struggled. There’s more to this but I’m just going to get to my point. The little guy, the working man, stood up for what he believed in
to the point that they were willing to risk it all. It was literally and all or nothing gamble. This is what I admire about those Americans. Why should the world recognize and celebrate with us? We showed the world how to stand your ground and fight for what’s right and what you believe in regardless of the cost. A quality that’s, unfortunately, been lost. In the past, we lead the world in a direction that was right and when we spoke, we put our money where our mouths were. Now, in many places, when we speak, others laugh. We don’t keep our word. We don’t respect others, nor do we properly take care of our own. We feed other countries and supply them with basic needs while our own people struggle and suffer. Why is this? Part of this is because you, the American, don’t have anything your government needs other than your money.
”THE 4TH OF JULY FOR ME IS PROBABLY ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT HOLIDAYS THIS COUNTRY HAS. IF I MAY SAY, PROBABLY IMPORTANT TO THE WHOLE PLANET.” Other countries trade off things like oil, gas, real estate, lithium and other minerals, to name a few. Incredibly, we are in a time when the government says we have a
Tell Jim what you’re thinking, what do you want to say to him? editor@borntoride.com
population problem yet can’t find people to work. That makes no sense to me. The having your hand out has been a norm instead of the exception. Unfortunately, it seems that being American has changed. Being it used to be AmeriCAN and has changed to AmeriCAN’T. Meaning we can’t get our people to go out and work, can’t afford gas, can’t grow food, can’t afford to transport our goods such as food, can’t afford to live indoors, can’t afford the taxes we are charged and why? NO DAMN GOOD REASON! But we can afford to ship billions of dollars and equipment to other countries who refuse to reciprocate. Why don’t we start collecting on the foreign debts owed to us? Did Kuwait ever reimburse us the money owed for the gulf war? Not that I’ve heard. And the list goes on. We seem to have one-way pockets in the wrong direction. Money goes out to other foreign countries but never is returned. That only applies to “non-America.” It’s a crying shame we are letting our country piss on every veteran that died, fought or served this country of ours. Yet we open our borders and wallets to those that lower the standards of this great nation. Time to step up and be heard. I’m doing my part right now. What are you doing? Is your hand out or is it balled in a fist, tired of this crap and ready to stand up? Actions are louder than words, people. That’s my ten cents (Until they tax me on it.). — Nefarious James AmeriCAN BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 43
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RONNIE and EMILY’S
CHRISTIAN MOTORCYCLISTS ASSOCIATION Years ago, I had two businesses, one of which used promotions and contests to encourage its’ associates to work hard so they could earn prizes. I’ll never forget the grand prize for one such convention – a brand-new custom chopper. The winner could choose from either the bike, and it was awesome, or $35,000 in cash. Picture this, a slightly raked out front end, an S&S motor, and if it wasn’t rubber, leather or painted blue and yellow, it was chrome! It was hands down the most beautiful bike I had ever seen, and 25 years later, it still makes my heart beat. And the winner, a little old lady, passed the cash so her husband could take her for rides on that gorgeous chariot. When I saw the bike on the convention floor I was filled with covetousness, I just didn’t know better at the time. I didn’t even have a bike of any kind when that all happened, but I wanted that lady’s bike. There was another situation that caused me to covet some of my friends because of their incredible skills at slow speed riding. It just amazes me when I see the skill some folks have with two wheels. When I first noticed that I was having feelings of covetousness or envy, I was momentarily embarrassed for myself. When I stopped focusing on what I
could not do on a bike and learned to appreciate my friends’ riding talents, everything got better, including my handling of my bike. It is still an ongoing process of practicing and learning and trying to pick up pointers when I see great riding skills. I have the same type of bike; the big variable appears to be time devoted to riding and riding often. When I learn to overcome my jealousy and envy, I will find myself no longer coveting those friends who ride so well. The Bible addresses the issue of coveting. In Exodus 20:17 we are told, “Don’t set your heart on anything that is your neighbor’s.” (The Message) It is normal to appreciate things, be they physical or emotional. The issue at hand is not to want something in spite of it belonging to someone else. If we covet something, we set our hearts on that item, trying to get what we want, even if it takes inappropriate actions such as stealing and conniving in order to take possession of the desired item. This is true, not only for physical items such as homes, cars, or motorcycles, but for emotional issues, such as breaking marriage vows and relationships. This can lead to lusting after someone else’s spouse, or to broken promises. The sad part is that such actions can harm those not even aware of the coveting. Even children feel the pain of betrayal. Learn as I did, to lean on God to provide the contentment that will overcome coveting. When you do your best, God will do the rest! In the Wind, Denny Dingler
Check out BornToRide.com for more articles from Christian Motorcyclists Association
BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 49
BIKE NIGHT BALLYHOO!
It’s July and already hotter than a $2 pistol, my BTR friends. I keep telling Mike to hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. He keeps telling me his arms are hurting from too many 12 oz curls, his fingers are pruned from holding too many wet cans, and his brain is too foggy from multiple run-ins with Bud, Foster, Stella, Amber and Genny. Bert’s Great American Bike Night at OCC Roadhouse & Museum has been off the chain. Lately there have been two bands and me on stage with at least one of them, a variety of vendors, awesome food choices, and plenty of cold drinks. All this is happening under six, 50 foot fans, so it’s never too hot and a great way to spend Thursday night rain or shine. Mike cuts me off saying, “Spyke, this place is the newest motorcycle Mecca and biker Country Club in the Tampa Bay area. There is no need to wait for weekend events to come here. If you’re into bike viewing, monster trucks, line dancing, live music, bar games, great food, delicious drinks, people watching or are just interested in the Orange County Choppers/biker lifestyle, these things happen here seven days a week. Coming up on Sunday August 21st, Born To Ride will be hosting the ultimate Great American Biker Bash. Mark your calendars, don’t go on vacation, call in sick, and bring all your friends to the hottest event this summer.” “The band Preacher Stone, featured on the show Sons of Anarchy, is the headliner and I’ll be joining them on stage sometime during the day,” Mike goes on. “Choppertown Live will be in full swing with Paul Teutul Sr. BTR 50 | BORNTORIDE.COM
and other famous bike builders showing off their best and highlighting this over-the-top chopperfest extravaganza.” I cluck, “Dude! It will be a day filled with Polaroid poses and Kodak moments for both of us. I will be so busy entertaining the crowd with avian antics and tomfoolery that you’ll be running around like a chicken with its head cut off trying to capture the moment for everybody while keeping me in line.” Mike belches out, “It’s going to be crazier than a dog in a hubcap factory and yes, I’ll be busier than a squirrel trying to get a nut! Talk about busy, you need to get off that float, out of the pool and start pecking away at the keyboard. And I don’t mean working on your dating site for chickens, www.poultrypokers.com. That’s your fun job, making hens meet. Ron has been asking for your story going on a week now. I haven’t been able to talk to him yet. I’m still traumatized from the incident I experienced earlier while I was out getting your bird seed. I’ll never forget the look on the cashier’s face when she scanned the bag of seed and I asked her how long does it take for the birds to grow once I plant them?” I cackle after crawling off the pool float, “Mike, you are trembling and look a little pale. Tell me what happened?” He pulls up a chair next to me as I start pecking on my story. “I’m glad you weren’t with me earlier. I’m okay, just a little shaken up. I was robbed this morning! After the trip to PetSmart, I had to make a stop at the gas station. I pulled into a Wa Wa. It all happened very fast. Just like how they say, in a blink of an eye! As I gathered myself together my hands were still shaking. I was dizzy and I knew I was in shock. But my money was gone. So, I called the police and for once they were fantastic. They did make a request for medical assistance as they found my blood pressure was through the roof. After getting checked out and released by the paramedics, the officer asked me if I could remember anything
or knew who did it, and I told them: Yes, clearly it was pump number 2.” I put one wing over my beak and squawk, “You should’ve taken me on the Fat Boy 3. If we were on the scoot, that damned one arm bandit would have only gotten half your money. Now how are you going to support the single moms at the gentlemen’s club after bike night tomorrow?” Mike babbles, “Don’t worry, my little buddy. I have a supply of kitty kash stashed for such events, so we won’t dig into your college fund, this time. It’s full of ones and fives that I was given workin’ your feathered ass down at the pier last weekend.”
I screech, “This time! You say that every time. Keep it up and the only fund I’m gonna have is a go fund me account. I think you should take us out on the scoot, go spend the money on your friends and get something to eat, you know your taste buds. Let’s get my wings in the wind while I’m hanging onto the back of the Fat Bird 3, your knees bent into the breeze, and its wheels rolling down the road, I’m hungry.”
— SPYKE
Do you have a riding pet story? Let us know, Spyke wants to feature them! editor@borntoride.com
EVERY THURSDAY NIGHT BIKE NIGHT!
FLORIDA’S BEST BIKE NIGHT! EVERY THURSDAY 6 - 11 pm RAIN OR SHINE Over $1,000 in Prizes & Giveaways Every Week Vendors Games Contests Raffles
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