Born To Ride #224 - Jan 2023

PTA MEET AND GREET

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Letter from the Editor

FROM THE HELM

HOWDY BROTHERS AND SISTERS!

Hey there brothers and sisters, Born To Ride is the place to be in 2023! This is our New Year’s special issue, packed with killer two-wheeled content about the lifestyle you love. We’ll kickstart this issue with news of Gibtown Bike Fest.

It’s roaring your way on January 6th through the 8th, known as Florida’s most entertaining Bike Event. The Fran Haasch Law Group and Gibtown Showman’s Association present three days of motorized good times including nonstop live music from such bands as Bobby Friss, Big Engine, Shoot 2 Thrill, Crossfire Creek Band, Hardwired, Broken Hearts, Symmetry and more.

Ride out to Gibtown and meet moto maestro Billy Lane of Sons of Speed and check out the awe and wonder of Born To Ride’s Southern Fried Moto Show sponsored by James Irwin’s Bikers Helping Bikers featuring a custom and ride-in bike show with over $1,000 in cash and prizes. The best of show winner will get a bike feature right here in Born To Ride magazine. We’ll see you at the Showman’s Club at 6915 River View Drive for Gibtown Bike Fest. Be part of our Boss Hogg radio live remote!

But wait, there’s more! On Saturday, January 21st, come on out to the 3rd Annual Rockabillaque Florida Festival. It’s a full-on classic car and vintage bike show that even Fonzi would be proud of. Hosted by Miss Rayzen Hell, it’s a full day of live rockabilly music by the likes of the Squirrel Nut Zippers, Los Straightjackets, Legendary Shackshakers, Lara Hope & the Ark-Tones, Hot Rod Walt & the Psycho-Devilles and a whole bunch more! We’re talkin’ contests, and a tire

burnin’ vendor market. It’s free to attend and opens at 11am out at the Seminole Casino Hotel at 506 South First Street, Immokalee, Florida.

Then next month, ride out to Sarasota for Thunder by the Bay sponsored by Adrenaline Harley-Davidson. It’s a three-day motorcycle and music festival headlined by Colt Ford and 38 Special! You’ll find another kickass Choppertown Live ride-in custom chopper show and benefits of the event helps support Suncoast Charities for Children. You’ll find a hellacious kickoff party, over 100 vendors, a charity ride, and on-site camping. Want to enter your bike or be a sponsor? Call 888-795-5779.

This month’s awesome issue includes a question and answer session with James Irwin to help you retire in style, a few new year’s laughs from Spyke & Mike, and some heartfelt words by Nefarious James. If it’s of interest to riders, you’ll find it right here in Born To Ride.

We remind all our sponsors and potential sponsors that content is still king, and print is still the most powerful way to get the word out to motorcyclists about your parts, products, events and more. Born To Ride has 28 years of media experience and is dedicated to the biker lifestyle. Let us help to share your passion for riding and get the word out to the world.

Special thanks to Attorney Fran Haasch for her continued support and keeping us on the streets. Remember to ride safe and ride smart this new year. May 2023 bring you everything you dream of. We’ll see you on the road.

— Dave Nichols

Scan Everything To Stay Alive

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

You should be especially aware at intersections, where other vehicles can cross your path of travel. There are many things to scan for, including traffic devices, road surfaces, and the traffic and pedestrians around you. For more information go to www.msf-usa.org

Attorney Fran M. Haasch isn’t just our attorney, she’s yours as well! 1-866-LAW-FRAN

A Biker Helping Bikers

JAMES IRWIN

HAVE YOU MET JAMES IRWIN?

TELL US A LITTLE OF YOUR BACKGROUND AND EXPLAIN WHAT A CSA IS?

I am in financial services. I help people avoid transferring money unknowingly and unnecessarily. Sure when you say financial services it can have many meanings. Of course we help people invest their money and find places for them to put their money. What I do that’s UNIQUE is I help people find places where they could be transferring money unnecessarily and then I bring that back to them. First, to increase their accumulated assets to make their future more solid. And secondly, to help people increase their present lifestyle so that the journey along the way is pleasant. That is what I do. I help people find money that they are losing unnecessarily.

A CSA is a special designation. The Society of Certified Senior Advisors (SCSA) educates and certifies professionals who work with seniors. The Certified Senior Advisor (CSA)® credential applies to professionals who are able to demonstrate their competence and knowledge of working with older adults into their professional practices. By creating a network of qualified professionals, SCSA strives to create a strong and safe environment for seniors and those working with them. The Society of Certified Senior Advisors (SCSA) educates and certifies professionals who work with seniors. The Certified Senior Advisor (CSA)® CSAs understand how to build effective relationships with older adults because they have a broad-based knowledge of the health, social, and financial issues that are important to older adults. Through certification, Certified Senior Advisors agree to uphold the Highest ethical standards for the benefit and protection of the health and welfare of older adults. Currently there are less than 3400 individuals nationally in financial services that have earned this recognition.

In addition I am also a chapter president of AFEA The Nation’s leader in non-profit financial education! AFEA is a an IRS approved 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, AFEA’s mission is toinform and empower Americans to take control of their finances by providing comprehensive financial education in communities nationwide.

A BIKER HELPING BIKERS, TELL US ABOUT THAT CONCEPT AND WHY YOU ARE AN AVID RIDER?

It’s a way to give back to the community I love. Bikers have told me in the past they don’t want to work with the suits of society

833.467.2865

when it comes to financial services. Even though my national HQ is located in the most prestigious building in Tampa loaded in suits, you’ll never see me in one. I usually ride my Harley to work and enjoy setting of car alarms in the garage from the rumble of my bike.

I got my first minibike at age six. Had a brief sponsorship from Ducati racing sport bikes and have owned numerous Harleys. There have been only a few years when I have not owned a motorcycle in my lifetime. The feeling and therapy it affords me is priceless. I will never stop riding.

HOW IMPORTANT IS IT TO YOU TO HELP VETERANS GET EVERYTHING THEY ARE ENTITLED TO AND GIVE US A FEW EXAMPLES HOW YOU CAN HELP?

Veterans are the reason we enjoy our freedom! A country that creates them needs to take care of them. We can never THANK them enough. I have found many get frustrated trying

Money School 20 min. Webinars at

to understand what they are eligible for. The general information that are given is like trying read an IRS tax code. I have helped many enhanced their health benefits, reduce Medicare cost,gain disability benefits and help with long term care benefits. As a CSA we are educated on ways to help.

WHAT IF WE ARE ON MEDICARE OR KNOW SOMEBODY WHO IS? WHAT CAN WE DO TO AVOID SCAMS?

Just call me 833-467-2865 it would take pages to list all the ways people get victimize and many don’t know till they use the plan. I get calls everyday about this. As a CSA a lot of people who were mislead get referred to us. I offer unbiased advice based on your needs not mine.

healthinsurance65.com IS YOUR WEBSITE, YOU CAN HELP WITH RETIREMENT INSURANCE, MEDICARE, SOCIAL SECURITY,VA AND LIFE PLANNING AS WELL AS INVESTING IN THE FUTURE.HOW IMPORTANT IS THE TRUST LEVEL THAT YOU CAN BE THAT PERSON TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN YOUR CLIENTS FUTURE?

Its very important! My services are unique since they is no cost to the client and without judgement. I have worked with folks with hundreds of dollars to well know celebrities with millions of dollars. Everybody get’s the same treatment. Most Financial Advisors charge a fee just to talk, I don’t. In the past before slowing down in my sixties I was for several years the #1 producer in the country with many well-know insurance companies. I was always unbiased and did what was best for the client not me. This is how I built my business. My dad alway said to me “ You brought this on yourself” and “What goes around

comes around” and of course “One day you’re gonna thank me for this” So this upbringing has earned me a blemish free reputation.

TELL US ABOUT THE MOVIE YOU WERE INVOLVED IN THE” THE BABY BOOMER DILEMMA”?

The move is a documentary critically acclaimed a must see by Forbes magazine among others. The trailer to the movie is on my website www.healthinsurance65.com anyone who goes there can request a FREE movie streaming pass since it is no longer in theaters.

YOU OFFER A FREE BOOK MISSION ONE MILLION ON YOUR WEBSITE HOW DO WE GET IT AND WHY READ IT?

It’s an interesting short informative read. Not dull and boring. Everyone who reads it or watches the Movie has said they are glad they did! I guess eventually someone will give it negative reviews but so far all positive!

IS IT TRUE YOU OFFER MONEY SCHOOL WEBINARS SEEMS LIKE A GREAT WAY TO LEARN AND THEY ARE ONLY 20 MINUTES FREE OF CHARGE?

Yes the Money schools webinar invites are easy to watch and simplify complicated subjects free of charge.The book is for anyone wanting to get out of debt, build wealth, and create financial independence.

People will have a chance to meet you at Gibtown bike fest and Thunder by the Bay this year.

WHAT IS YOUR MESSAGE TO THEM AND WHAT KIND OF QUESTIONS SHOULD THEY BE ASKING?

They can ask me anything love talking motorcycles. And they should be asking themselves if they current financial plan (Only works in good times?) Or (causes you stress?) Or (is your 401(k) now a 301(k) or a 201(k) If any of those questions are yes they don’t have the right financial plan.

As you know bikers are very charitable people giving back to the community in many meaningful ways. I’m of course a biker and that’s why with the help of many generous people we offer these FREE BOOKS ,WEBINARS, MOVIES and CONSULTATION. A biker helping biker that’s what its all about!

NEXT MONTH

Thunder By the Bay feature is coming!

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.

Fall Tour Kentucky

Welcome to our Fall Ride Guide. The riding season here in the southeast is transitioning from the hot and humid oppressive days to the cooler temps of fall. And frankly, my favorite time of the year to ride.

Riders and motorists alike flock to eastern Kentucky and Tennessee to take in the fall colors, enjoy the camping, Pumpkin....everything, hot chocolate near the warmth of a campfire and of course the best roads in the country.

In our October and November issues, we’ll cover the roads that take us up and over mountain’s, deep into the hollers, along the most scenic rivers and most importantly, into the communities and their peoples who make this region what it is-truly Appalachian.

I visited Ashland, KY back in March of this year and while riding, discovered that U.S. 23, aka the Country Music Gateway, was not only great riding, but had an incredible amount of history associated with it-Country and Bluegrass Music History. I’ll admit I’m not a follower of country music, yet I couldn’t help but to be impressed with the number of recording stars from the area. Loretta Lynn, Chris Stapleton, Dwight Yoakam, Ricky Skaggs, Crystal Gayle, Billy Ray Cyrus and The Judd’s to name a few. I had to ask myself, is there something in the water that creates such a concentration of talent? As I rode further south along U.S. 23, I realized it was the land, the mountains, its Lore and the unsolicited gentle wave from porch sitters that greet passersby.The inspiration and the talent, well, it’s simply Kentucky.

Before I go any further, it’s important to note that this particular line of black gold that snakes its way just south of Ashland, KY for 183 miles as it slices through the corner of Virginia and into Kingsport, TN is considered to be part of the vast network of trails from Backroads Of Appalachia. The Country Music Gateway-Hwy 23, as it’s officially designated. Heading south from Paintsville, KY and passing by the famous Loretta Lynn’s Butcher Holler, yes, there’s a tour at 1 Butcher Hollow Rd. in Van Lear, U.S. 23 runs along the Levisa Fork River and rambles through seven counties as it hugs the border of WV. It’s an easy ride as rides go and that’s a good thing because there is plenty to see along the way. The unincorporated Hamlets of Banner, Tram and Ivel, most of which were established in the late 1800’s, are the remnants of the coal boom that fueled America.

A little further south, the City of Pikeville is an example of the truegrit spirit required to tame this wild land as the city itself is almost

the Happy Days Diner. I parked my bike and went inside to find the red and gray vinyl decor with its Formica tabletops oozing Americana. Taking a seat near the window so that I could see the town, I glanced at the menu and immediately made my choice. Any country eatery worth its mettle has my respect with a fried bologna sandwich being one of its signature sandwiches topped high with tomato, lettuce, and a slather of mayo. While waiting for my lunch, I reflected on the ride and this incredible region. Its inviting untamed hills and the welcomed opportunity to slow things down and literally, enjoy the ride.

Back on the road I pushed along and soon found myself in Virginia and then into Kingsport. A great day of riding and an incredible day of taking in America, Kentucky style.

Photo Credit to @ranger.photo

–Indian Rider Bill Indianriderbill@yahoo.com

THOUGHTS FOR A NEW YEAR

It’s hard to believe that we are already in the year 2023. Seems like 2022 was just a blur. Now that we’re starting off our new year, I try to look forward to it with a positive outlook. That statement alone is very difficult for me to look at and not laugh at myself. But we must look at the future in a positive light with hope and understanding.

I’m guessing the understanding part comes in by coming to the realization that we need to look more carefully when we decide on the leadership of our government, and in the choices and decisions that we make in our daily lives. I know this past year has been rough for a lot of us, and many have struggled just to get by. We are a direct result of our environment and those we choose to surround ourselves with. I believe one of the secrets to success are to surround yourself with genuinely good and positive influences. I’m saying the real deal types not the ones that spend their efforts telling you how good they are. It’s a quality over quantity type of thing. Would you rather have one really good road trip or six crappy ones? I’ll take the good one please.

Don’t be influenced by all the negativity of others. Odds are that those type of people get off on watching others fail just to try to convince themselves they are better than someone else. Only you can control if you’re going to be happy or not. Now I realize some of you will say, “Nefarious, I try to be happy but all this s**t keeps putting me down.” I get it. It can be just as simple as changing where you go, who you hang out with or just how you look at things. Been there, done that. Making those changes can be very difficult and also be lonely. You may even feel isolated. Well, I’m going to tell you, there are thousands of others out there that have taken the steps to improve their position. Keep some

of these things in mind when you get frustrated with your routine.

“My job sucks.” Does it? You may love the work you do and feel pride in your accomplishments. Maybe it’s just a crappy boss that’s botherin’ you. Another saying goes, “there is no such thing as a sh*tty job, just sh*tty management.” There’s a lot of validity in that.

“I can’t seem to find someone to spend my time with and enjoy my life.” Where did you meet them? What do you really know about them? Hard to believe this but I met my soulmate by accident and after two weeks of dating, and married her. We lasted 24 years together. I, of course, screwed that up and I own my part in it but the thing I realize now is just don’t look for that person. If it’s meant to be it will happen. You also have to love yourself before you can love anyone else. Adding someone to your life in hopes that it will fix your problems is a short-term solution.

There’s more to life than your job. I like to try and refer to, “Play when you can, work when you have to.” It could save your sanity. Could be as easy as getting on your bike and getting out into the fresh air. Treat others how you want to be treated. It may not be returned to you by others, but there’s no need to drag yourself down to a lower level.

“But Nefarious, I had a loss of someone very close to me. I feel lost.” Anyone that has followed me for any time knows I’ve been through this myself. Turned my world upside down. I hate to say this but regardless of what people may say, you won’t get over it. It may even haunt you. It’s up to you to learn how to process that loss and find a way to accept it. I watched an interview of Keanu Reeves and the host asked him, “What do you think happens

when you die?” His response was spot on. Keanu responded, “I believe after you die, the ones that loved you will miss you.” I couldn’t have said that any better than that. It’s a fact.

Always think about how you respond to things and act when responding to them before doing so. You know, the look before you leap angle. Remember, you can never completely erase something you’ve said or done. Sometimes nothing said is a more powerful response than any words can express. Stupid is as stupid does. Selfexplanatory.

And one last bit going into the new year. There is a difference between an accident and an incident. Drinking and riding can lead to an incident. You don’t accidentally drink, then ride. Remember that.

Use your brains. They can make you happy. In a time when smart phones get smarter and the ones using them get dumber, we should try and put that in perspective. Don’t be lazy. Think for yourself. Think of your legacy and plant the seeds for the next generation. Humanity may be counting on you. That’s a hell of a thought, isn’t it?

Ride safe and be responsible. Own your own actions and be proud. Keep your word and be careful who you give it to. Once it’s broken, it’s almost impossible to repair. It’s the only true thing you have that can’t be taken away. Only you can give it to someone of your own free will.

I wish all of you a safe, happy, and prosperous year to come. See you out there.

— Nefarious James Grateful American

Craven Moorehead

returned and apologized, which was not necessary and I paid for the can and headed to the gas pumps after telling her the story of the beautiful angel that had given me a ride. “I saw her drop you off and I thought maybe she was your girlfriend or wife.” “I wish” is all I could say, and we both laughed.

I get a few dollars worth of gas and started hoofing it back down 60 toward the truck. A fellow in a pickup truck stops and says “Man, I heard the story about you running out of gas, and I actually saw that hot girl that dropped you off, so if you want me to, I will drive you back to your truck – just in case she doesn’t come back to get you.” I accepted the ride and the man even offered to hang for a minute just to make sure that I could get it started. I thanked him profusely and told him that I was very appreciative. We conversed about the ‘paying it forward’ thing just like the beautiful girl that brought me there did, and of course, I also told him that he was also an angel unaware.

Angels are Real, Happy New Year

I had a yard sale this weekend. I put signs out on the main drag and the other streets to direct people in. Just before it got totally dark, I jumped into the old Dodge pickup to go retrieve the signs. I was at my 3rd stop (on RT 60 & Jerry Smith) when the truck ran out of gas. I’m standing in the turn lane realizing that I would have to walk back to the shop to get an empty gas can, and then walk back to the corner of Turkey Creek and 60 to get some fuel and then walk back to the truck. By this time it was dark. I swear to you, I could not believe what happens next. This isn’t Winslow Arizona – but a girl in a Ford Expedition rolls down her window at the stop sign and asks me “what’s wrong.” “I’m outta gas” I replied. So she says “Come on, I will give you a ride.” “Lemme see if I have my gas can.” After a short search, I realized that the can was not in my truck. Knowing that I had run out of luck, I just walked to the passenger side of this really nice truck and got in.

Oh my God in heaven, I looked at her and she was absolutely beautiful!! Long blonde hair, perfectly dressed, hot body, and to top it all off she was within my wheel-house of maturity. I am really surprised that a woman of this stature and elegance would even stop and look at an old ‘scooter-trash’ looking dude like me much less actually wait around and piss people off at a busy intersection while I took the time to look for my gas can. But she did, and evidently she is very brave. After a short introduction and some small talk she asked me which gas station I wanted to go to – the RaceTrac or the Sunoco. So naturally I said, “RaceTrac.” She told me that after she picked up her friend on the other end of the road she would give me a ride back to the disabled hillbilly truck. She went out of her way to drop me off at the gas station, and I reminded her that she was truly an ‘Angel’ for giving me a ride.

When I went inside the store, I searched for a gas can. Yeah, there was only one left. $12.99 plus tax which equals almost all I made in the last two days of the yard sale. But I was on a mission to get the truck back, knowing that the battery would be dead soon because I had left the parking lights on. Anyhow, when I get to the counter a girl that I’ve seen in my frequent visits to the store (which is also very cute and extremely nice) is wondering why I am buying a gas can. I asked “Do y’all rent these?” to which she replied – “No, they aren’t for rent.” But she would go check her car to see if she had one that I could borrow. This was yet another effort by someone to help me with a problem, with no expectation of recompense. She

I poured the gas in the tank leaving just a little to dump into the carburetor for good measure. After grinding the battery to the point of death, she finally fired up and as usual the old worn out hillbilly Dodge didn’t let me down. It’s been a very long road with me and that truck. I picked up my signs and went home.

This isn’t a fabrication or fantasy by any stretch of the imagination. This is a TRUE story that you should ALL take heed to. I don’t care if you believe in God or whatever deity it is that you worship. It’s none of my business. I can tell you this; there are good angels walking this earth, paying it forward every day that they live and breathe. Personally, I try to help people whenever I can, and I am not prophesizing or preaching here so don’t get the wrong idea. But do yourself one favor – help people if you can. Your reward may not come immediately, so have faith and push on. In the end, it doesn’t really matter, but you only take with you what you have put in. Here’s the kicker. That beautiful woman did come back to look for me, she slowed down, got into the turn lane and after seeing me pouring gas into the tank she just blew the horn and drove away. It is what it is, but I believe that you should take every opportunity that presents itself to you. Perhaps I should have been more patient and had a little more faith in humanity, but alas I did not. Sometimes it is hard to make the right decision based upon faith alone, but I did accomplish the mission and made it back home intact. My agent called to get me booked for some gigs coming up in the near future. I told her this story. She may not be impressed, but she questioned me about why I didn’t get this girl’s phone number. I should have. I learn something every day and my faith in people has been restored to a great extent. Angels are everywhere regardless of your religion. …

Everything happens for a reason I suppose. But if anyone knows who this beautiful angel is, then let her know that she has a fan that would love to repay her in so many ways. Later that evening. … The woman somehow tracked me down. I was in my shop, working on an old computer when I saw a truck pull in. It was her! I went over to the window and she, in a sweet as sugar voice asked me if I would mind checking on what the strange ticking sound in the motor was. I of course obliged and after she opened the hood, I began examining the motor. The truck was so tall that I had to sort of get up on the front tire and lean under the hood. I had only been under there for about 20 seconds when something moving behind me startled me and I glanced over to see her standing behind me. All of a sudden, she began pulling on my leg, just like I’m pulling yours!

This month Born To Ride reviews the 1971 film “Psychomania.” If you like old British horror films, then this one’s for you. Maybe I should have said horrible old British films. Either way, Psychomania has a lot to like or dislike, depending on your level of intoxication.

The film centers around the life of “Tom” who is the leader of a ‘motorcycle gang’ called the Living Dead. Tom and his ‘gang’ ride authentic period Triumph motorcycles, and meet in a field with several large vertical stones which somewhat resemble

Stonehenge.When they gather there, they often discuss what they will do in the particular day, but there is always talk of committing suicide, so they can live forever. Where could they get such an unsavory idea? From Tom’s occultist Mum of course! In a dream like sequence, Tom has the pleasure of seeing his lovely Mum sign a deal with the Devil to have eternal life. His soul is assumed to be part of the deal, as there is a tot in a basket screaming as Mum signs the deal. All this weirdness is further accelerated by a frog. I dunno? It’s just

Do you have a favorite Biker Movie we don’t have? Let us know: info@borntoride.com

BIKER Movie Review

strange. We’ll get to the Frog—plus stones thing later.

On one particular day, Tom and his gang decide to ride through town and wreak havoc on the locals. They ride through a mall square like setting, tipping over shopping carts, baby carriages, and other things until the Bobbies arrive. A chase ensues and most of the members escape the long arm of the law. Tom hell-bent on killing himself rides his motorcycle through a guardrail and into the river. In a strange ritual, Tom is buried sitting upright on his motorcycle near the stones. His gang makes wreaths of flowers and other artifacts, which are buried with him as a guy plays the guitar and sings. Mum’s weird butler buries a frog necklace with him and all the other stuff. Later, a motorist breaks down near the stones, and has the horror of seeing Tom ride his motorcycle out of the grave. He of course is struck by the speeding Triumph and assumed dead. Tom then proceeds to call home from a local public house, and speaks to the butler and his Mum. Later he kills several people from the pub, and escapes into the night. The next day he arrives at the stones where the gang is trying to figure out who stole Tom’s body, and motorcycle. Thinking Tom is the thief, the gang begins questioning him and one of the members sneaks up to stab him in the back. This is where they realize that Tom had really come back from the dead. Seeing how cool it is to be immortal, the rest of the gang sets out to be just like Tom and each one kills him or herself in increasingly more bizarre ways. All succeed but Tom’s girlfriend, who after a failed attempt, really wants to live a normal life.

In the end Tom gives her the ultimatum to join him in the ‘living dead.’ While she is deciding what to do with the gun he has handed her, his lovely Mum performs a ritual which turns her into a frog, and the rest of the ‘dead gang’ into stones while she shoots Tom. Sound confusing? Yeah, it does to me too! I guess the moral of the story is: Don’t feel too froggy, cause you might get stoned.

Welcome to 2023 my BTR friends. It’s that time of year to wipe the slate clean, start new things and change for the better. Mike and I experienced an excellent holiday season and have exciting news about upcoming shenanigans.

Florida’s most entertaining bike event, Gibtown Bike Fest, is the first full weekend of this month and hopefully we’ll see y’all there. Mike will have me hanging out at the Born To Ride tent on the Fat Bird 3, on stage with various bands, and posing on anybody who wants a Kodak moment.

Next month we’ll roll into Sarasota and Thunder By The Bay on Feb. 17-19. This is one awesome music and motorcycle festival that you don’t want to miss with some of the hottest builds around in BTR’s Choppertown Live, three days of vendors, entertaining acts, and hours of live music including headliners 38 Special and Colt Ford.

Starting January 16th Mike brings his infamous biker games to the OCC Road House. Vic the beanie guy, has given us the nod to host hilarious escapades during band breaks. There will be fun stuff to do with and without your motorcycle. He’s going to rotate between Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. Watch for the dates on OCC’s Facebook page, videos and their ad in BTR. Then make it a reason to show up and test your gaming skills, challenge your friends, win cash/prizes while enjoying a few laughs and doing fun stuff!

Mike babbles, “Damn, Spyke! You’re a great public service announcer in print. I see all that quiet time you’ve spent poolside while

GITTEN - R - DUN

pecking away at the keyboard poolside replying to your peeps has done you some good. I just wish you’d do more than squawk into the microphone when we’re in public. I hope you made that part of your New Year’s resolutions.”

I cackle, “Why yes I did, along with pooping down people’s backs, biting fingers, making babies cry, kids scream and the elderly needing to change their Depends.”

Mike gasps, “No Spyke, those are your reverse resolutions and counterintuitive. That makes people believe your road to hell is not paved with good intentions. I won’t be doing resolutions this year. Instead, I’ve come up with my ‘rest of existence’ plan. Life is short and getting shorter by the day. Barely the day started and it’s already six in the evening. Seems like I just got over Monday and its already Friday. Now the month is close to being over and the year is almost done.”

“Already 40, 50 and 60 years of my life have passed,” Mike babbles on. “I’ve lost my parents, friends, chances, jobs, and pets. I now realize it’s too late to go back and relive what has slipped by. So, I’m going to enjoy my remaining time. I will keep doing activities that I like, adding some color to life’s grays. Smiling at the little things in my world that puts calm in my heart. Despite everything I will continue to enjoy with serenity, this time I have left.”

Mike still ain’t done. “I’m going to eliminate the afters… I’ll do it after… I’ll say it after… I’ll think about it after…I’ll get to it after…

I used to leave everything for later, like ‘after’ is mine and I’ll find the time. Because what I’ve finally realized is that afterwards, the coffee gets cold, afterwards, priorities change, afterwards, the charm fades away, afterwards, health passes, afterwards, the kids grow up, aAfterwards, parents get old, afterwards, promises are forgotten, afterwards, the day becomes the night, afterwards, life ends… and by then it’s too late! So, I’m going to leave nothing for later. Because if I’m still waiting to see you later, be there later or talk to you later. I will lose

the best moments, best experiences, best friends, my best family, my best life.”

But wait, there’s still more. “Today is the day and the moment is NOW! No more waiting for afterwards, later or the right time. Now is the time to git-r-dun!”

I cackle, “Damn, Mike, I love that attitude but you sound like a preacher or life coach. I believe in your theory, but I also believe that the pitfalls of life will suck you in and you’ll swirl in the cesspool of NOT gitten-rdun.”

Mike chatters, “I hear you, Spyke. Every year I make a resolution to change myself. This year I’m going to be myself. It’s not a theory, it’s my prophecy. A new way to live life and enjoy my existence. Eventually, I’ll be going into the grave sliding sideways, all used up, worn out and screaming, been there done that! I’ll see y’all on the other side.”

I crow, “Well, that’s a good start to the rest of your rat race. But I still think the elevator doesn’t go all the way to the top and you’re a few fries short of a happy meal. To lock those thoughts in your head, we need a little two-wheeled therapy. You must get my wings in the wind, your knees under the triple trees, and the Fat Bird 3 wheels rolling down the road into next year of gitten-rdun.”

RONNIE and EMILY’S RONNIE and EMILY’S

CHRISTIAN MOTORCYCLISTS ASSOCIATION

How exciting it is to realize another year has gone, and there is a New Year full of hope and opportunity before us! We literally have a clean slate and a clean calendar; it is up to us to see what we will do with the upcoming 365 days. Looking back on rides, I can recall more than once someone cut me off in traffic, claiming they didn’t see the motorcycle. There were times when circumstances made it impossible to keep a commitment and some people felt I let them down. I’ve even had a few people look down their noses over clothes or even the bike I ride.

The common denominator in all of this is having a New Year with a new plan and a better attitude! Don’t know about you, but sometimes when I’m soaking up the miles and my mind jumps to some negative thoughts, the beauty and joy of the day is interrupted. I have to tell myself to take a mental time out and get my head back into the ride and the freedom it offers. You know, there is no reason to fire up the bike and get into the wind if you’re just taking a bunch of troubles with you, right?

What’s the answer? We have to forgive ourselves, forgive each other, and simply move on with life. I once heard a

doctor say that we could “Get bitter or get better”, the only difference is in having a focus on the “e” not the “i”. In other words, take you eyes off yourself and look to everyone else. Whatever we focus our mind on determines the focus of our thoughts and lives. One thing I’ve learned is a strong answer to the problem of staying caught up in the past is to keep a short list. If I’ve accidently hurt, slighted, or cheated someone, I have to make it right and restore the relationship. Almost as importantly, if they’ve hurt or harmed me I need to be big enough to forgive them and get on with a smile on my face and in my heart. There just isn’t enough time in this life to waste over trivial “stuff” that attracts our minds. That way we can truly get better instead of getting bitter. Besides, when I’m bitter the one I am hurting is myself, and what’s the purpose of that?

There’s another area of forgiveness we must face, asking God to forgive us when we’ve failed to honor Him with our lives. 1 John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” That means if we turn away from our wrong actions, He’ll forgive us, and our relationship with Him is restored. If we confess, He’ll do the rest! Trust in Him and begin again, with a fresh start, a clean slate, and looking forward to a great year ahead!

In the Wind, Denny Dingler

EVERYTHURSDAY NIGHT BIKE NIGHT!