Behind Barz Motorcycle Magazine July-Aug 2024

SOUTH CAROLINA

AND OUR ENDLESS RIDING ADVENTURES

The coastal areas of South Carolina offer a unique opportunity for motorcycle riders. In addition to being blessed with a riding season that lasts almost the entire year, both local and visiting riders alike get to take in beautiful scenic rides with the coastline and the countryside in close proximity to one another. We’re also lucky enough to experience an extended period of warm weather for countless riding opportunities that are nothing shy of exquisite.

A perfect example of this would be the 2024 Cruisin’ the Coast Spring Rally, which wrapped up on May 19th. The seven-day event brought hundreds of thousands of riders and motorcycle enthusiasts to the Grand Strand for a week full of camaraderie and fun. From bike sales and vendors to a killer event line-up, we’re extremely grateful for another successful rally, only made possible thanks to all of our loyal customers and riders.

Even though the 2024 Cruisin’ the Coast Spring Rally has come and gone, that isn’t slowing us down one bit because Father’s Day is right around the corner! Whether it’s a new t-shirt to add to this ever-growing collection or a set of glasses to sip on his favorite drink, Myrtle Beach Harley-Davidson and Low Country Harley-Davidson are your one-stop shops to find the perfect gift for that special father figure in your life.

Our dealerships are also celebrating the Summer riding season and the incredible performance of Harley-Davidson motorcycles by hosting H-D’s Race into Summer Open House! This event is designed to highlight what you’ll need to get you, and your bike, in tip-top shape for these warm riding months. For a full list of event details, visit myrtlebeachharley.com, lowcountryharley.com, or our dealership Facebook pages.

Rain or shine, hot or cold, Myrtle Beach Harley-Davidson and Low Country Harley-Davidson are destination dealerships. With an incredible inventory to choose from and shipments of new bikes still rolling in, nothing makes us happier than knowing we’re able to be every rider’s home away from home. We can’t wait to see all of your smiling faces walk through our doors and enjoy the Summer riding season with you!

Editorz Notez

On the cover...Big Mike. We did a photo shoot at Webbs Mill back in 2022. See his dedication on pages 26-27. He will be missed.

HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!

Motorcycle Magazine

Send: ideas, recipes, stories, photos, complaints, suggestions or whatever to: PO Box 692 - Nashville, N.C. - 27856 or email: behindbarzmm@suddenlink.net check out the official website... WWW.BEHINDBARZ.COM also FaceBook, Instagram, or Twitter

We want to wish everyone a Happy Independence Day! Celebrating the passage of the Declaration of Independence by the Continental Congress. It announced the political separation of the 13 North American colonies from Great Britain. Declaring ourselves to be a free and independent nation, gaining our freedom...the birth of American independence!

Just a reminder that Behind Barz Mag can bee seen and read on the web. We were the first motorcycle e-magazine in N.C. If you would like Behind Barz in your business, please give us a call: 252-314-8589...Our ad rates are unmatched by ANYONE in the motorcycle realm! Distributed to NC, SC & VA in hard copy and full color, glossy! You can find us on Facebook: www.facebook. com/BehindBarzMag and we are on Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram, You get a lot for your hard earned money when you advertise with us! We promote your events, bike runs, benefits, and your business relentlessly! NO NEWS PRINT HERE!

2024 marks our 20th year publishing Behind Barz Motorcycle Mag! The best part is meeting and becoming friends with the greatest folks on the planet...bikers! We are bringing back our Insane T-Shirt Palooza Benefit for our 20th Anniversary. See page 13 in this issue to see more. Thank you for your continued support! ...and keep Livin’ The Life!

If you are lost...have faith in Him! He will get you through whatever it is that you may face...because He is with you...all the time! God Bless you and yours! We’ll see you out on the road, Behind Barz!!!

Big Mike at Webbs Mill in Spring Hope, NC...See pages 26-27

We reserve the right to edit all letters, opinions, or articles for publication in “Behind Barz” Motorcycle Magazine. No part of “Behind Barz” may be reproduced for any purpose in intirety or in part without the express written consent of “Behind Barz”. “Behind Barz” does not endorse any advertiser or its products and cannot be held responsible for advertisers claims. “Behind Barz” has the right to refuse advertisements for any reason. “BB” will not intentionally publish fraudulent or misleading advertising. Opinions depicted in any photograph or writing does not necessarily reflect the view point of the staff of “Behind Barz” Motorcycle Magazine. Manuscripts, artwork, photographs, inquiries and submitted materials are welcomed.

PUBLISHERS & EDITORS: debbie “DOOBIE” sykes - 252-314-8589 vince “Vinney” byrne - RIP

COPY EDITOR: Murphy

GRAPHIC DESIGN: Spick

MARKETING CONSULTANT: Rogie

SALEZ: Debbie Sykes

PHOTOGRAPHERS

and CONTRIBUTORS

spick - the best of both worlds charlie - after the 18th hole m.a. - the one and only harley mama jason - foreign corespondent kate - foreign corespondent bones - black hills under ground pork - black hills high wire lady d - LA corespondent angel eyes - on the other side moe - shitcreek Survivor vinney - the original picker! RIP mike - always on call jaybird - Always ridin’ damn yank - on the north side bob bryant - poetry biker becky - Road Glide Queen dave - Iron Man chewy - iron mutt ewing RIP jason - The Kitchen Goat big ed - Only as he can tell it! bobby earl - cointreuversial wild bill - the iron horse cowboy RIP “jus” rick - former golden boy preacher man - SHBC RIP d-rod - “guardians” public relations RIP indiana bill - the longest in the world paul - ghost baseball player bob - preacher bob and bullwinkle michelle - keeping it real bunny - anywhere there’s cruzan RIP rodger - Jesus freak samantha - Blue Knights mikey - Inspector Clouseau

Doobie

nc Support Our Troops

Ayden, NC

NC SUPPORT OUR TROOPS located in Ayden, North Carolina is a nonprofit organization formed with the mission to support troops and their family members by providing care and comfort items and expressions of appreciation for their service and sacrifices.

Packing care packages for our deployed troops is a way to show your support and appreciation for the service and sacrifices by our military members. We also provide support for troops at home, their families and veterans.

The end of last year our team of volunteers had to work from home because of not having a building to meet in and work from.

We met these challenges while supporting troops through deployments and homeland activations. We continued with support from caring volunteers and donors who want our troops to know that America cares about and appreciates their service.

We are now in our new location and we are looking forward to 2024. Below are some suggestions on how you can help...

Ideas: Order items from Amazon, assemble goody bags with 6-8 items in a sandwich or party bag, add signed cards. Make as many as your family, church or bike group can help with! Make financial contributions for postage. Groups are welcome to setup GoFund me pages for postage. Our financial donations have dropped significantly and monetary donations for postage is our greatest need.

Please don’t forget our military members who are serving away from home and family this year.

Thank you!

Barbara Whitehead

We always enjoy supporting our military chaplains!

the care packages.

Photo above:

When we ask the troops what is their favorite item in the care packages, they usually say it’s the cards and letters. The simplest messages boost morale and shows them that they are not forgotten, and America still cares.

PHOTO COURTESY OF:

SFC ROBERT B JORDAN.

Big thank you to this energetic group of East Carolina University office of student affairs staff for their day of service!

We need you to join our team to support our local heroes in 2023!

Photo above:

Our Energizer Squad made welcome home cards today for a troop soon to be coming home! This troop is blessed with a great one woman SFRG!

Photo above:

Photo left: Packing Behind Barz Motorcycle Magazine into

Photo above: Thank you to the donors of baby blankets! New parents treasure these & Girl Scout cookies make everyone \ smile!

RADD Ride

El Azteca Style

WINTERVILLE - KINSTON, NC

3rd Annual RADD RIDE | Charity Ride for RADD (Raising Awareness for the Developmentally Disabled) was a success!! We had a beautiful day and it was truly a blessing to see all the girls and guys get their trophies for the year! The RADD program does so much for our community for individuals with disabilities. Support them if you can! Anything is much appreciated.

JESSIE BRITT

Who Is Behind Barz With You?

Riding with my husband on his motorcycle is very unlike riding with him in our car. On the bike, there’s nothing (except my husband) between me and the road. There are no air bags, no safety restraints, and while the helmet is a good device, it’s not a perfect one. (There’s a reason that some helmets have been nicknamed “brain buckets” and bikes have been called “donor cycles” — and it’s not a pretty reason, either.)

One of the hardest parts of learning to ride behind my husband was the restricted vision. In the car, I can see everything he sees. On the bike, however, I can’t see what’s directly in front of us. Initially, that was a little unnerving. I used to try to peer around him, but I learned quickly that that particular action was not conducive to a smooth trip. Between the restricted vision and the fact that, at first, I didn’t understand the operation of the bike, I experienced more than a few white-knuckled rides.

My husband has the clearest view of our journey from where he sits behind the bars. Therefore, if I’m going to ride with him, I have to trust him to make the decisions necessary to get us where we’re going. The longer we ride together and the more I understand about the operation of the bike, the easier it has become to trust my husband’s judgment. I have learned not to worry about being unable to see what’s in front of me, because I know my husband can. I can trust him to make sure our journey is the best one possible.

Riding with God is like that. His view of your life’s journey is much better than yours is. He sees a lot more and a lot farther ahead than you do. You cannot even imagine the things coming your way – and sometimes you should probably be grateful about that! When you ride with God, He plots your path through storms that you may not even know are on the horizon yet. Trusting Him to get you through doesn’t guarantee you a smooth ride, but it does mean you get the best ride possible. After all, no one loves you as much as God does. And the longer you ride with Him, the easier it is to trust that He has it all under control.

But that means you have to ride with Him. You have to let God be the one behind the bars in your life’s journey. It’s not hard to ask Him to be your savior, but He’s not a genie in a bottle either. If you want to ride with Him, you have to trust Him. Totally. Even when He takes you down a rough road on a dark night in the middle of the worst storm you’ve ever encountered, you MUST trust Him. That’s the only way you should ride with anyone.

Do you ride with God? He wants you to. He sent His Son Jesus to make it possible. Can you admit that you have said and done and thought things that were wrong? We all have, every single one of us – except Jesus. That’s why He could pay the price for our sins –and He did – but the gift is only yours if you accept it. Do you? Please do. I want to meet you in heaven.

Story & Photos: Leslie Harder

“If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by openly declaring your faith that you are saved.”

Romans 10:9-10 NLT

Leslie Harder

Adapted from Leslie’s fourth book, “Along for the Ride: Motorcycle Moments with the Master” now available on Amazon. Book is pictured below.

NEW BERN, NC

What a great weekend. We spent this weekend up in New Bern, NC with Friends of VEMA New Bern chapter for their Bears behind the Badge event. This event raises money for Law Enforcement officers and their families for whatever they need. For example, this year was to raise money in order to assist with the financial needs of an officer whose child has undergone several medical issues and tremendous financial burdens due to the medical bills and treatment.

This is just a small portion of what this event does. It was more than a privilege. It was a honor to participate and contribute to this worthy cause. We look forward to this event every year. Nothing is greater than giving back to those who give so much to us.

Also during this trip. We were able to do a drive by and show support to one of our beloved members who is battling cancer. We weren’t able to see her on this ride. But we made sure we were heard. We love you Addie Yates. Never forget you have any army of loved ones cheering you on and praying daily for your recovery. Know that VEMA stands at the ready for any and all calls to need.

VEMA

We are excited to write the success story. You will beat this and thrive past this. You are strong and we believe in you and the healing power of the Lord all mighty.

Veteran Enforcers Motorcycle Association - VEMA

North Carolina Run For The Fallen

The 2024 North Carolina Run for the Fallen began on Friday, May 17th with a 5k ruck march and Opening Ceremony at Fort Liberty. Numerous military, dignitaries and family members gathered at dawn to kick off our run. Our runners and volunteers, escorted by the North Carolina Patriot Guard Riders, began their 127-mile journey and mission to honor 681 North Carolina fallen service members. We stopped every mile, along our route, to read the names of our fallen Heroes and greet their family members. Gold Star family members and the public lined our route to cheer on our runners who were all volunteers from Fort Liberty and Camp LeJeune. Our emotional journey concluded on Sunday, May 19th with the Closing Ceremony at Camp Lejeune Memorial Gardens. Three personalized Honor and Remember flags were presented, during our three-day run, to Gold Star family members. We can never thank our runners, volunteers, and North Carolina Patriot Guard Riders enough for all their support. Our run would not have been possible without you! If your organization would like to be involved, next year, please reach out to us. The 2025 run will be May 16, 17, and 18. Mark your calendar and reach out for more information. Visit our website at: https://northcarolina.usarunforthefallen.org

Submitted by Kathy Moore, Director of the North Carolina Chapter of Honor and Remember

Gold Star Mother of CPL Ryan D. Russell KIA 5 March 2007

Are you a biker friendly business?

If not, you should be! The motorcycle industry is a 25+ billion dollar industry! The average income of a biker is $75k+ annually! Women are more than 1/3 of the motorcycle market! Average age is 40-65. Bikers spend over 3 billion annually on charities!

Get Behind Barz Mag distributed to your business and we will let bikers know you carry it and are biker friendly! All you have to do is ask! Call us and we will let you know how. 252-314-8589

Do you care about your business? If you do, and want to advertise in a respected and professional magazine, give us a call. We are the only full color, glossy biker publication in VA., N.C. & S.C. combined. We were the first free biker mag with an E-Magazine! We have more online social websites than anyone else to offer you the optimum advertising possibilities ~ Print Mag, Virtual Mag and many other social media outlets! All at your disposal for one price when you advertise with us! You have one option when advertising with Behind Barz Mag ~ FULL COLOR! We do not do black & white, we do not do newsprint, we do not charge for web advertising!

We care about your business... do you?

BIG LOVE! ~ Big

Mike

International Female Ride Day

JUST RIDE! - Worldwide Women’s Ride Day

Globally Synchronized Women’s Motorcycle Ride Day

Dedicated to Women Riders Around The World. Happens Annually on the FIRST SATURDAY IN MAY.

INTERNATIONAL FEMALE RIDE DAY® was created by Vicki Gray Founder and Director of MOTORESS with the aim to:

►HIGHLIGHT◄ the many numbers of women actively enjoying motorcycling;

►HEIGHTEN◄ awareness of women motorcycle riders while building camaraderie among each other.

IFRD ►INSPIRES◄ those who have not yet taken up the joy of motorsport – each and every participant’s a role model for women in motorcycling! This is a MOVEMENT growing every year - country by country, rider by rider! It has become an incredible global happening, the only one of its kind for women riders – a truly synchronized, celebrated day!

Stilettos on Steel NC and Women Bikers of NC facebook group had an amazing IFRD yesterday. Feel free to use the photos in your magazine. We rode to Bone Yard Harley in Winterville and then over to Big Rock Power Sports! These ladies are amazing ~ Angela Michelle Kimball

Blue Knights NC Chapter 2

WAKE COUNTY, NC

Story and Photos: Samantha Raybon

This past May 31st and June 1st The Blue Knights Wake County Chapter 2 attended the Angier Bike Fest, they were able to raise money that will then be used to benefit law enforcement officers and their community. The Blue Nights NC Chapter 2 strive to put their name out there and make people aware of what they do for their community and in doing so try to raise enough money to continue to help their law enforcement family and their community in return. They met a lot of cool people who were very interested in what they do, The Blue Knights NC Chapter 2 was thrilled to have so many people interested. They truly had a blast at Angier Bike Fest and will continue to return, there was people who bought raffle tickets for the chance to win a 50th anniversary addition of the Blue Knight Coin set. Others bought supporter shirts, challenge coins or donated to the Blue Knights. The thing that brings these guys the most joy is handing out these little stress squeeze motorcycles with their logo on them to all the children they come in contact with. All the kids that got one were seen playing with them and showing them off for the rest of the day even some adults asked for them and were walking around with them. Overall Angier Bike Fest was a good event for the Blue Knights and they hope to see you next year!

On June 2nd, members of the Blue Knights Chapter 2 motorcycle club joined fellow riders in Charlotte, NC to pay tribute to four fallen officers from the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force. The solemn event, known as The Fallen Four Ride, commemorated the lives of Sam Poloche, William Elliott, Joshua Eyer, and Thomas Weeks, who tragically lost their lives in the line of duty.

Led by Chapter Director Greg Toback, the Blue Knights Chapter 2 contingent made the journey to Charlotte to take part in the poignant ride honoring their fellow law enforcement brothers. The air was heavy with emotion as dozens of motorcycles roared in unison, a resounding salute to the ultimate sacrifice made by the Fallen Four.

As they navigated the streets of Charlotte, the riders formed an unwavering line, each rev of their engines a heartfelt tribute to the valor and dedication displayed by Poloche, Elliott, Eyer, and Weeks. The solemn procession served as a powerful reminder of the risks faced by those who wear the badge, and the debt of gratitude owed to them by the communities they serve.

For the Blue Knights Chapter 2, participating in The Fallen Four Ride was more than just a show of solidarity – it was a sacred duty, an opportunity to honor the memories of their fallen comrades and provide solace to the grieving families left behind. In the face of such tragedy, the brotherhood of law enforcement stood firm, united in their commitment to ensuring that the sacrifices of the Fallen Four would never be forgotten. As the ride came to a close, the rumble of engines faded, but the impact of the day’s events resonated deeply within the hearts of all those in attendance. The Blue Knights Chapter 2 had played their part in paying homage to the Fallen Four, ensuring that the names of Sam Poloche, William Elliott, Joshua Eyer, and Thomas Weeks would be etched forever in the annals of courage and service.

The Blue Knights have a huge event coming up partnering with Whole Vet to put on the third annual Motor Muscle Excursion. This is a very big event

for both groups and a chance to raise money for family’s in need whether it is a veteran or an officers family. This is the event you do not want to miss! There will be a live band by your very own Dirt Road, Vendors of all sorts, and great food! Come out and join us September 21st the ride is starting at Bulldog HarleyDavidson in Smithfield, NC and riding up to Garden state Grill in Lillington, NC.

SEE YOU THERE!!!!

Shenandoah Baptist Church 7th ANNUAL SCRIPTURE RUN 2024

April 20, 2024 we wake up to fog and drizzle. The forecast said it would turn out to be a nice day and boy did it ever! It turned into a beautiful day, a perfect day for a ride. We are so blessed and thankful for all the bikes and the riders and church members and friends that came. We had more bikes come than I believe we have ever had. The count was about 45 give or take and people were everywhere. We had to find more tables and chairs, but I’m not complaining at all. We started the day with our Prayer Circle, the biggest ever. It was hard to get it all in one picture. I thanked everyone for coming and supporting these kids and then we were led in prayer by our senior pastor, Tim Parker.

We want to thank the Nash County Sherriff office for helping us get the first bikes out at 10:00 and a second group at 11:00. They enjoyed a 60 mile ride through Nash and Wilson counties. The stops this year included: Harper’s Nursery/Wendy’s Hole in the Wall Boutique, Cyclemax, Flying Iron Harley-Davidson and JD’s Grocery and Grill ending up back at Shenandoah Baptist Church where the rest of the fun began. Each rider was treated to a hot dog lunch with all the trimmings as well as a goodie bag filled with items donated by some our sponsors.

We had over 90 sponsors/donators this year with 138 door prizes and gift cards. We had several of the prize values between $100 and $400 to help us in our mission to raise money for the Shenandoah youth ministries and outreach. Again this year we were blessed with donations for a raffle. We started selling the tickets last fall and it was a great success. 1st prize was a 4 wheeler won this year by Nick Vester. The 2nd prize was a 12 gauge shotgun won by Janet Spring and then the 3rd prize was season passes for two to the Rudy Theatre in Selma won by Howard Moore. Thanks to everyone that participated.

Don’t want to forget the silent cake auction. We had 5 items being bid on. We had several cakes and a banana pudding. All looked fantastic and all brought nice bids. Thank you to the bakers and the bidders.

The first place prize for the Scripture run was $100 won by Destry Leonard. The “worst” hand was won by Dawsie Davis for $50. We also had 50/50 winner, Jonathan Johnson. All of the money won was graciously donated back to the YOUTH…In total, with the run, the door prizes, 50/50, cake auction and concessions, we raised over $11,000. We thank each and every person that bought even 1 ticket and we ask God’s blessings so that this money will be used to HIS glory and HIS only.

God blessed us with this idea of a Scripture Run over 7 years ago and it has grown and evolved every year. It is a lot of hard work but the rewards are so great. Many kids will be going to camp that otherwise might not be able to afford to go. If even one life is changed because of all this, then we are truly blessed and thankful.

We have so many loving and faithful friends that help make this happen every year and I thank God for all of them. The Bible says “ Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding” Prov 3:5. When you do that, you cannot go wrong!

God Bless all of you that donated, prayed and attended this year’s event. Next year will be here before you know it and we hope you will plan on joining us.

Story and photos: Lori Davis

Judy Kay’s Odyssey: A Motorcyclist’s

Embarking on an Adventure Beyond Boundaries

Judy Kay embarked on an epic journey that would take her across the country, the 2021 Tacoma packed with a KLR 650 and a YZ450. Her first destination was the electrifying Supercross in Denver, CO, where the ground shook with the power of professional races.

Braving the Fury: Tornadoes and Lightning in Kansas

The adventure took a dramatic turn as Judy faced the wrath of nature in Kansas. Amidst tornadoes and lightning, she navigated through the storm, a testament to her courage and the Tacoma’s durability.

The Salt Flats Ordeal: A Test of Endurance

In the vast salt flats of northern Utah, time stood still for nine hours. The Toyota weighed down by the motorcycles, became ensnared in the saline grip. It was an Arctic Cat with tracks that provided salvation, towing them out of the salt’s tenacious hold. But not without a heavy price to pay for the vast tow

Toquerville Falls: The Rocky Road to Triumph

Undaunted, Judy Kay journeyed to Toquerville Falls in southern Utah. The rocky canyon trail challenged both rider and machine, but the breathtaking falls at the end of the trail rewarded their perseverance.

Dune Dancing in Sand Hollow State Park

The adventure continued in Sand Hollow State Park, where the desert’s dunes beckoned. The YZ450 thrived, carving through the sand, a dance of dust and delight... and many burnouts in the sand.

story & photos: Judy Kay

Judy Kay

Tale of Resilience and Discovery

Beyond Boundaries

Zion National Park: Riding the Rhythms of Nature

The desert gave way to the legendary switchbacks of Zion National Park. With street tires replacing dirt ones, Judy ascended into a realm of scenic splendor, each turn revealing vistas more stunning than the last.

High Altitude Burnouts: Kanab’s Snowy Summit

The climax of Judy’s odyssey was in Kanab, UT, where she ascended 10,000 feet to celebrate amidst the snow. The burnouts were not just marks on the white canvas but symbols of freedom and the joy of the journey.

Closing Thoughts:

Judy Kay’s cross-country trip was a narrative of discovery, resilience, and the unbreakable bond between a motorcyclist and the open road. Each mile told a story, each challenge sang a song, and each destination offered a new perspective on the beauty of the journey.

For more stories like Judy’s, check out Behind Barz Motorcycle Magazine (online or in print), where the spirit of the ride comes alive in every word and every picture. Ride on, Judy, ride on.

“Finally, summer is in full swing and bikers are on their scooters doing what we love and dream about all winter, getting back in the saddle and twisting the throttle. Most of my friends are already chomping at the bit to pack up their stuff, load it on their scooters and ride to Sturgis or one of the hundreds of bike rallies across America. The closer we get to the Sturgis Bike Rally the more I hear plans being made for where everyone wants to camp and whether they’ll ride Iron Mountain or Needles Highway first. A few of my friends that will be there for the first time are asking if I’ll be there and if I would be their ‘tour guide’ to the Badlands and the Wildlife Loop and some of the canyons…The rally isn’t until August but it’s already getting exciting.

I am very hopeful that I will be able to attend the rally in Sturgis this year but I’m not sure I’m up to it physically. I missed it last year because I had to keep a doctor’s appointment but I am not letting that happen again, the only thing that is going to keep me from going is God….Trust me, He is more than capable of stopping me lol

Ever since I left Florida and came out to Colorado a year and a half ago I’ve been facing the reality that my long range riding days are behind me. For 8 of the almost 10 years that I’ve been living on the road I could, and often did ride 700 to a thousand miles a day, day after day for weeks on end …but I can’t physically do that anymore. Today if I’m able to ride 100 miles without stopping because the pain in my neck and shoulder has turned into agony it’s almost miraculous…

As long as I can get my leg over the saddle and get the kickstand up I’ll continue riding. I’ve been on two wheels for 58+ years and I’ve got scooter in my

By: Bob Seymour

blood so the thought of losing the ability to ride makes me want to jump on Bullwinkle and get as many miles behind us as possible while I’m still able to….

I’ll be 70 on my next birthday and with age comes some serious slowing down, especially when it comes to the number of hours and miles I can do in the saddle in a day and still be able to be effective in what I do. To be able to deal with the reality of my age and that my best riding days are behind me isn’t an easy thing for me to do because I’ve pretty much lived on Bullwinkle for 8+ years.

I learned a long time ago that every human needs a sense of purpose and a vision for their life, it’s the only way to move from living a mere existence to experiencing a life with genuine peace. It’s because I’m a believer in Jesus that I have an eternal perspective of life and its issues so it’s relatively easy for me to maintain the perspective I need to fulfill my purpose as an old biker.

In many respects my role in life as a believer and a biker are the same, to preserve and pass on the things I’ve learned and experienced by living what I believe to a younger generation in hopes that they will experience an even deeper passion for God and riding than I ever had. As a believer it’s my role to know God and to make Him known by walking in all the light I have and as a biker my role is to openly express my love for riding and to live and pass the biker code on to the younger generation. It seems strange to me that both believers and bikers have lousy reputations in each other’s communities and in society as a whole so I have decided to do my best to build a bridge between the communities and society as a whole.

The Bullwinkle Chronicles

ullwinkle hronicles

I know I’m not the only rider getting close to putting the kickstand down one last time and I wanna encourage my fellow experienced riders not to lose heart because the words Jesus spoke i.e. “It is better to give than to receive” is a principle that transcends the good feeling of giving material things. When you share the wisdom and knowledge that can only be obtained through life experiences with someone and you see that life changed for the better you cannot begin to imagine the feelings that flood your entire being. The only thing better than seeing a younger biker embrace the biker code from an older rider is when God is the One who drew them together so one could make Him known to the other….

The purpose of this wandering rant is to encourage everyone, young or old, in the biker world to live the code of Loyalty, Love, Honor and Respect and to wear it on your sleeve as a wrecking ball to tear down the stereotype that we should be avoided and feared, we don’t deserve that stereotyping but we have it and only we can change it. I wish I could say the same about believers not deserving the stereotype we have not only in the biker world but in society as a whole but I can’t.

I won’t get into the reputation of the church and by extension individual believers except to say the Bible calls us Priests and the word Priest translates as “Bridge Builders” which to me says as believers we need to be building some bridges across the chasm that religion has caused. If we woke up every day and asked God to let us see everyone we encounter that day through His eyes and then allow His goodness to love and work through us the stereotype of us being hypocritical and greedy will be displaced. Some may think its a bridge too far and a chasm too deep but they believe a lie, I have witnessed walls crash down and bridges built across the deepest and darkest chasms because I dared to believe in the purpose and vision I have for life.

If you’re a believer all you have to do is dare to believe God can, will and wants to use you to introduce someone to Him through your life and you will experience what “it is better to give than to receive” means. The most valuable thing we have to give to people we cross paths with is our time and our life experiences so don’t hesitate to give yours to a stranger because the stranger you meet today may be your brother or sister tomorrow….You never know who you are going to meet or how you will impact their lives….”

“Ode to Big Mike”

How to begin this article is difficult for me. It is admittedly the hardest article I’ve ever been asked to write. Let me start by quoting Big Mike and say, “Big Love to you” to everyone reading this article. I’ll also ask two questions, “Do ya ride? Do ya wanna ride? The answer should be, hell yeah, I wanna ride!” God, how I’m gonna miss hearing Big Mike say those words!!! Michael Ray Bullock or “BIG MIKE” as most of us knew him, was many different things to many different people and those of us that were fortunate enough to call him a friend and a brother knew that with his loss, came a feeling that there will never be another man like him. Mike was a big man with an even bigger heart! When Big Mike was around, you knew that it was gonna be a good time and great vibes, no matter where you were. Not only was he a family man and a proud Grandfather (“Opa” as his four granddaughters called him), and a former dedicated American soldier, he was also a well known biker and brother to so many of us in the biker community. He never met a stranger, and it didn’t take long to feel that “Big Love” that Big Mike brought with him everywhere he went and to everyone he spoke with. That’s a terribly rare trait for any man to have these days, and if you never had a chance to meet him, it’s a shame to say, but you can never understand because people like him are few and far between! Big Mike could (and did on several occasions) walk into a karaoke bar and belt out “Mustang Sally” and absolutely turn the bar upside down. He was even a member of the band “Steel Standing” where Big Mike could perform his favorite songs for more people to enjoy. And enjoy it, they did! Jason and Christy Boyette (the owners of The Bad Apple Tavern in Lucama, NC and hosts of one of Big Mikes’ last public performances) told me personally that since they’ve been operating, Steel Standings’ show featuring Big Mike was their biggest show by far and brought more customers in since they’ve been open. But, Big Mike was successful in other areas as well, having his own clothing line featuring his personal logo shown here under the Drunk Sally, LLC trademarked brand but also as a representative for HD Motorcycles itself. He was a very successful salesman for The Boneyard Harley-Davidson Motorcycle dealership in Winterville, NC, and also for the Flying Iron HarleyDavidson Motorcycle dealership in Rocky Mount, NC. While at The Boneyard dealership, and while I was still on crutches from a serious motorcycle accident, Big Mike went out of his way to find the exact used bike I dreamed about and put together an unbeatable and unbelievable deal on my 2017 Laguna Orange Harley-Davidson Street Glide and did the same for MANY of our friends. He even went so far as to come by my house and pick me and my bike up when it needed it’s first service on his own personal

vehicle and trailer. That was just my Big Brother’s way of doing things and would always say, “you’d do it for me if I were in your shoes”, and of course, I had to agree. Not only did Big Mike sell motorcycles, he rode HarleyDavidson Motorcycles and one of his best friends, Chris Gates is quoted as saying that Big Mike put more miles on a motorcycle than anyone he knows, and that’s saying a lot! Being in motorcycle sales and being such a prominent part of the motorcycle community gave Big Mike the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life and I know personally that he treated every person he met the same way, with dignity, respect, and Big Love! No matter how close you were with Big Mike or how well you knew him, the one person who knew him the best was the love of his life, his wife Patsy. They were an inseparable pair and even though she would say, “he’s not a perfect man, but he’s perfect for me”. They were the perfect couple and had the relationship that so many of us dream of having. Patsy’s unexpected passing affected Big Mike drastically. He was never the same afterward which is understandable and he would often write poems dedicated to her and inspirational words of Big Love posted on social media as a form of personal therapy to express his heartfelt feelings. Anyone reading his words could feel his loss and know that he longed for the day that he and Patsy would be reunited in Heaven. Well, Michael, I know that you and Patsy are finally celebrating in Heaven today and riding those streets of gold together right now. I hope that you will Rest In Peace Big Brother, and keep a watchful eye on those of us that love you and especially your family and those four beautiful granddaughters. The people you gave new life to through the organ donor program you were part of, will be forever in your debt Big Mike and even though they will probably never know who you are or where they came from, will all keep you alive in their hearts. Even in death, you gave new life to people you didn’t even know, which further goes to show that you are a better man than any man I’ve ever known in my life! We as a community celebrated your life in memorial at Joyner’s Funeral Home in Wilson, NC in grand fashion on Friday June 14th with a Military Honor Guard, over 200 motorcycles, and what I’d guess to be over a thousand people who all came with one purpose... to honor the life and love you brought to us and to memorialize the Legend of the one and only Big Mike, with most of them wearing your DYRDYWR shirts. I think you would have been proud, Buddy! Your memory is one that will always be honored and cherished and spoken of in the highest regard! There will even be a yearly Memorial charity ride in your name, and what a celebration of your life THAT will be! It is an absolute honor to have been asked to write this article, and it is my sincere hope that I have done you justice. In loving memory of Michael Ray Bullock “Big Mike” November 26, 1966 - June 5, 2024, R.I.P.

~ “Riding With Jaybird”, by Jaybird “Snapshot” Bailey

Michael Ray Bullock

We Remember

Big Mike made an impact on everyone he came into contact with! In 2022 I asked him to do me a big favor and he didn’t hesitate to agree with my request. I asked him to be Bigfoot at my wedding and he was a hit! He even came back early from Bike Week to do this for me. What a special friend! We will all miss Big Mike but we know he is with Patsy and that is where he wanted to be. ~Doobie

Michael “Big Mike” Ray Bullock, 57, of Fountain passed away Wednesday, June 5, 2024. Memorial service was held at 2 p.m. Friday, June 14, 2024 at Joyner’s Funeral Home in Wilson, NC. Rev. Thumper Dixon spoke about Big Mike and Big Love.

Big Mike is survived by his sons, Zachary Bullock and wife, Gabrielle of Wilson, and BJ Bullock of Macclesfield; mother, Barbara Vainwright and step-father, Ray of Macclesfield; granddaughters, Rayleigh Fergison, Huntleigh Fergison, JoJo Fergison, and Oaklynn Bullock, and his sister, Christy Jo Trent of Virginia.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Patsy Bullock; father, Russell Bullock; grandparents, Wiley and Eula Mae Bullock and Staton and Verna Griffin, and grand mother, Ruby Griffin.

On page 29 in this issue there is a flyer of a benefit in Big Mike’s memory for his family. Please mark it on your calendar and come out for this event. We will see you there!

”A

the good news!

Rodger Duvall ~ Jesus Freak Thee Redeemed House biker Church

Chance of Rain”

In this life, few find what they truly need.

Some search a lifetime, not knowing what they truly need.

Most of the time it’s by happen chance, maybe blindsided, because you’re trying to find out what it is, not knowing what is truly just for you.

We have dreams, we desire a lifestyle. We want to explore all that the world presents.

This is a lifetime pursuit for life.

With all the things that could and do happen in this life, this question will be asked of ourselves by us.

What will bring peace in this life?

Having peace separates us from chaos. Times where storms rise up, travel off in the distance, or even appear out of nowhere.

When we ride, we are exposed to the elements of weather.

We look ahead for the forecast. We select a day that has been planned in advance, and then check the possible outcome for that day.

We’ll agree that if it rains, I’ll possibly get caught in it during the ride, but we’re not leaving in the rain to start.

The latter rain is the unexpected expected.

Joel 2:23

Is the latter rain, it is a ride God talks about in the future where God pours out His Spirit as a rain where it pours onto those who He has chosen to ride.

Do you want to ride with Him? There maybe a chance of rain.

If you are willing to head on out, Jesus will bring you home, not where you started, but to the end of this life, and into a new life where there is never any storms.

Jesus spoke to the storm and called it’s name peace, and commanded it to be still forever.

“Jesus Freak” Rodger.

Open 7 Days A Week

bb life

Cruisin The Coast Spring

Bike Week Then & Now

Right:

From left to right Randy Burris, Tony McCall,

Randy is from Hickory, NC he moved when he retired. Tony is in Brevard, NC. I am in Saluda, NC. Dirk is in Tuxedo, NC. Keith is in Mill’s River. We all work together or did. Some are now retired. Tony and I have been coming down to Bike Week since the early nineties. Our pack has grown and we lost a couple along the way.

Henry Gosnell

Below: Mike & Louise Winstead & Remy and Christy Solomon. Having a blast at Cruisin The Coast Bike Week!

Above:

Big Mike with Amber and Big Mike with Jordan. I asked Big Mike if I could include a couple of his pics from Bike Week and he happily obliged. He took many. He had lots of friends at Bike Week. These were just two out of hundreds! ~ Doobie

Photos...Big Mike

Henry Gosnell (me), Dirk Sherman, and Keith Pittillo.

Spring Rally Myrtle Beach

Above:

Left to right, Greg, Justin and his girlfriend Darian.

I’m originally from Reading Pennsylvania. The other two still live up north.

Photo: Greg

Right:

Great time at Bike Week! We are from the Tennessee Smokey Mountains.

Left to right...

Don Earls Jr.

Tammy Gibson

Jim Merrell

Sue Huff

Tammy

Below:

Thank you to everyone who came out to the 2024 Spring Rally Kick-Off Party yesterday evening at the The Sneaky Beagle in Carolina Forest! First off, we wanted to say thanks to the entire Sneaky staff for doing such a great job in making sure everyone had an excellent experience. Well done! We had an absolute blast and loved seeing so many riders from all over for a great time and and even better start to Bike Week. Your company and support is appreciated more than you know. Thank you.

Behind Barz 20th Anniversary

To thank you, our loyal readers, we are going way back to the beginning! In honor of this 20 year milestone we are offering BB subscriptions for the price of $15/1 year and $30/2 years. Each issue of BB will come to you in a protective manila envelope with free stickers inclosed! Thank you for your support! Offer expires 31 Dec 2024.

Photo:

Photos...Myrtle Beach HD

2Cents from 2Timer...

If you will allow me to take a serious moment and write this and y’all please keep an open mind.

You know, I share my life in this magazine. Sometimes I stray quite a bit from the biker lifestyle, but we are all human. We all have other things in our lives. Motorcycles just happen to be the glue in some situations. It’s the bond. You can’t explain it, but you all feel it. Most of us see the world differently. We put our lives on the line for riding. The thrill, the freedom, and this thing on two wheels that reminds you of sex every time you twist the throttle.

Okay...Maybe that last part is just me...What I’m saying is I put my life experiences and thoughts up here for y’all to

see. I’m going to share with you a moment in my life that was the most difficult thing I’ve ever gone through. I’m not going into detail but I went through a serious mental struggle. I don’t know how it happened but something inside broke. I was dealing with some issues in my life and stress was building to a point where I started thinking bad things.

I couldn’t stop. It was like an overthinking nightmare. I couldn’t turn it off. I started noticing that I didn’t want to go out unless it was to go to work or go to someone in the family’s house. My club noticed it right away. Sure. I get caught up in my job. I love what I do but that was the relief I was getting. I was getting relief working. It kept my mind busy. If it was busy I didn’t care what I was thinking about. Work took control and all the importance of my mind that day. I know I’m dumping out here. But that said, tell someone. But nobody really wants to listen. There’s some good people out there. But when you are hurting like that talking to someone who hasn’t experienced it, it’s just a waste of time for both of us. The pain is real and it’s inside. There’s no cut off switch. You cover it by being busy.

I know I’m not alone feeling this. I know some of you felt this or feeling it now. My prayers are with you. My thoughts are with you. The pain is real and I recognize it. It’s hard. It’s even harder alone. You already feel alone but being alone with it has got to be even worse. But I’m going to tell you. It was love that pulled me out.

Hello My Happy People!

Love from my wife. Love from her family. Love from my family and love from my club. My brothers knew I was hurting and they never stopped trying to get me out and behind those handle bars.

They my club, talked me into a ride. Actually, it was an event. I hung out with my brothers and my wife and I could feel a different energy. I started to finally pull myself out of this horrible cycle. It was the worst experience I have ever gone through. But it was love man...it was God! It was my wife and family and my club. They saved me in a way. I can feel life filling up my soul again. I feel my love for my wife and family has gotten stronger. And I feel a different level of bond with my brothers. I became a Lifer last year and even though I’ve not been the best example of being a brother this past year. My club has made me realize they are as close to me as family.

So to my wife and all my family and club. Thank you. It was great that y’all were able to help me heal. And to the ones still searching for relief. Don’t give up finding help.

(1-855-587-3463).

Wyatt’sLemonade

STURGIS,

SD

Wyatt’s Lemonade

WHAT a day!!!!! Special thanks for Twisted Talons RC and Behind Barz Motorcycle Magazine for stopping by and making Wyatt’s day extra special!

~ Wyatt’s Lemonade

I flew out to the Black Hills recently for business and pleasure. Got to meet Wyatt and his family. What an amazing kid and a great thing that he is doing... raising money for St. Judes. Wyatt was able to give $32,500 to St. Jude in 2021. He returned in 2022 and gave $21,000, 2023 he gave $21,568 to finish off the season with amazing corporate support.

~ Doobie

You can stop by and visit him during the Sturgis Rally. Check out his website at: www.wyattslemonade.com

MURALS & MOTORSICKLES

COMING 2025...Murals & Motorsickles contest. This will be a contest of grand adventure, riding your motorsickle and seeking out murals for chances at killer prizes! Stay on the look-out in the print/online mag or on our Facebook page for future details.

Murals have become very popular and they are scattered throughout this great country of ours. You can see them on downtown buildings in cities and rural communities, even barns along the countryside.

A muralist is an artist who creates large-scale paintings or artworks on walls, ceilings or other permanent surfaces. A great example is the photo pictured above! It is a killer mural found by Mike Lambeth in Greensboro, NC!

To participate in the Murals & Motorsickles contest you will have to sign up/register. You will be given a flag/paper with info from the contest. All you have to do is take a photo of your motorsickle in front of a mural (with flag visible) and text it or email it for points. Prizes will be given for points.

Stay tuned... More info to come on how to participate or be a sponsor in a future issue and on our Facebook page.

Mike Lambeth took this picture of his motorsickle in Greensboro, N.C.

To celebrate our 20th anniversary we are bringing back The Insane T-Shirt Palooza Benefit!

All proceeds will be donated to charities. Those chosen charities will be disclosed in the July-Aug issue. We will sell tickets for a chance to win each shirt. More info to come on location, date and activities planned the day of the event.

TO BE A SPONSOR:

Donate 2 t-shirts from your business or organization with your logo. Plus, 2 other items to go with each shirt (2 hats or 2 poker chips or 2 koozies, etc.)

WHAT YOU GET AS A SPONSOR:

Your logo included in the BB print mag and e-mag every issue up to the event. Your shirt, logo and link to Facebook page posted to our Facebook page. Plus, the shirt that sells the most tickets will get a free full page advertisement in a future issue of Behind Barz Mag!!!

If your business or your organization would like to be a sponsor of The Insane T-Shirt Palooza Benefit please email: behindbarzmm@suddenlink.net You can also call or text: 252-314-8589

We posted this info to Facebook a few weeks ago and already have four sponsors listed below. More are committed and we will post photos of the t-shirts donated to our Facebook page as we get them.

Roll Up Rev Up

Bike Night

ROCKY MOUNT, NC

On Sunday April 28, 2024 Rock Haven Church partnered with Flying Iron Harley-Davidson to host a church service and bike blessing at the dealership. The day was perfect weather wise for riders near and far to gather for praise and worship music and a good word from Pastor Lin Robinson. The message was followed by a tasty pork chop lunch cooked by church members.

With the good word and good food out of the way, Pastor Lin had the riders stand by their bikes while the crowd gathered to bless the bikes and riders with protection and safety while riding. He included words about the riders sharing their faith with others as they ride.

The partnership between Flying Iron and Rock Haven is one that began with the first annual Rev Up Roll up in 2023. It is such a great time for riders to gather and enjoy a church service at the dealership. These kinds of events will continue because it is nice to have access to faith based services in a location that is comfortable for the riding community. If you will be in the area or if you live close by keep an eye out for the next Flying Iron and Rock Haven collaboration.

story: Lisa Weaver

photos: Christina Ivy ~ Wild Hearts Photography

Great Things Accomplished

OUTER BANKS, NC

OBX HOG Group

Above:

On Friday, May 3, 2024, officers and members of the OBX Harley Group presented a $2051.00 cash gift to the Currituck Food Bank. Bill Hinkel, accepted the gift on behalf of the Currituck Food Bank. Bill said this gift is particularly welcome at this time of year when donations are much less frequent.

This gift was possible from the proceeds of a 50/50 as part of the OBX Harley Davidson Bike Week. The Outer Banks Chapter of the Harley Owners Group has a history of making generous donations to local charities.

Seen in the photo are (left to right): Chris DeCou, Scooter, Kathy Townsend, John Townsend, Bill Hinkel, Coley Motes, Linda Matason, Ron Matason

Submitted by Assistant Director Ron and Secretary Linda Matason. Outer Banks Chapter Harley Owners Group

Above:

This past weekend we hosted our #Dreamride and were beyond grateful for the show of support from our brothers, sisters, and our community. We are proud to say that we raised over $3,000.00 for the #special olympics Thank you for each and every person who made this event such a HUGE success! Additionally, a huge shout out to the Gibsonville PD, Elon PD, Elon University PD, and Mebane PD for your assistance in ensuring our riders safety during this ride!

“If you are interested in learning more about the Iron Legacy MC email pitbossilmc@gmail.com or warrior@ ironlegacymc.com”

RALEIGH,

NC

Tobacco Road Harley-Davidson

Left:

Today we raised $1,800 for @duke_childrens and @ childrens_miracle_network and that feels pretty amazing! Thank you everyone who came out to eat, thank you to @themrockabilly for playing their amazing music, and also a huge thank you to all of our cooks! See you next weekend for Fuel Fiesta !

GIBSONVILLE, NC Iron Legacy MC

Because of Great Bikers

MYRTLE BEACH, SC

3rd Annual Ride-A-Wish

Myrtle Beach Harley-Davidson

Below:

We’re taking a look back at April when we held our 3rd Annual Ride-A-Wish Dual Ride with Summerville Harley -Davidson! We’re continually amazed by the support our events receive from the local riding community and the willingness to help those in need! A total of $4,706 was raised for Make-A-Wish South Carolina, with the money going towards helping a child’s wish come true!

DENVER, NC

Bikes & Bingo

Blue Ridge Harley-Davidson & Two Trees Bar & Grill

Right & below:

The generosity of the Blue Ridge & Two Trees Family was on full display tonite at Bikes & Bingo for a cause at Two Trees Bar & Grill! Thank you to Two Trees for hosting this event and to each and everyone of you who came out and gave with your whole hearts!!! With your help we raised over $1300 for Carol Lloyd and her family to help cover expenses as she heals from her trike accident! Our riding community is so awesome and together we do great things!

MYRTLE BEACH, SC

Scenic Spring Rally Ride

Myrtle Beach Harley-Davidson

Above:

The 2024 Cruisin’ the Coast Spring Rally has come and gone, but something that always remains is gratitude for those who help us make our events successful! In this case, we want to give a special shoutout to CVMA 34-3 for partnering with us for our Scenic Spring Rally Ride! Thanks to the ongoing generosity of our loyal riders, $2,195 was raised to help veterans in need!

FRIENDLY BUSINESES

Rob’s

Over 1K Miles

Livin' The Total Eclipse

This was the total eclipse totality in Northeast Ohio featuring the ‘21 Road Glide. It was such a cool experience!!!

Matthew Logsdon Geneva, Ohio

Left Thursday from the end of Harkers Island and rode over 1k miles to the mountains and back in four days. Climbed three mountains and rode all over the country side!

Averie Gregg Newport NC

Naval Sea Cadets Bike Blessing

Today was Palm Sunday and a perfect day for our Smoky Mountain Harley-Davidson Dragon Chapter HOG Bike Blessing! A large turnout on a bright sunny day around 60 degrees. Our Chapter’s Chaplain Shawn handled the prayers & Blessings! Then our Director Jim Walker led a ride through Maryville, the GSMNP Foothills Parkway, a short rest & photo stop at the 129 Dragon Store, then back to SMHD. Tim J Rooney, Donivan Sonnier, Mark McNabney, Mike Peace handled the Road Captain responsibilities. Thanks to everyone who came out to join us!

Mark McNabney

On Saturday, April 27th, Blue Knights Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club North Carolina Chapter II presented the US Naval Sea Cadets Raleigh Battalion a check for $1,000 to support their Cadet Recruitment, Training & Advancement programs. The money was raised through personal funds donated by NCII Members and Supporters. We are privileged to support these courageous young men & women, along with the dedicated adult Leaders who volunteer their time training and encouraging our future heroes!

Vince Doxbeck

The Life

Tom Wopat & Cooter’s

Enjoyed a good long ride from Winchester to Cooter’s in Luray, VA yesterday and had some darn good vittles and got to meet Tom Wopat (Luke) of Dukes of Hazard fame with autographs and photos as well as hearing him sing some of his latest songs. The parking lot was full of bikes and we had a really enjoyable time.

Great Smokey Mountains

Hello from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. My son and I road up to New Found Gap. I’ve been riding for about 20 years, but this is my HD and we love it.

Leonard and Elizabeth Winchester, VA

Shane Huneycutt and his son, Able Huneycutt. They are from Concord, NC

GOAT FEST 2024: A Resounding Success

The Kitchen Goat photos: Sharde Gillis

The Goat Trust is thrilled to announce the overwhelming success of Goat Fest 2024, held on April 13. This year’s event not only met but exceeded our expectations, bringing together a community of dedicated supporters and raising significant funds for our cause.

On the day of the event alone, Goat Fest raised an impressive $5100. However, this achievement is part of a larger story of generosity and commitment from our supporters. In the months leading up to the festival, over $11,000 was collected, and donations continue to come in, reflecting the ongoing support and belief in our mission.

The funds raised will play a crucial role in advancing the Goat Trust’s initiatives. These contributions enable us to provide essential services, such as education and healthcare, and to promote economic opportunities within the communities we serve. The impact of this generosity is profound, making a tangible difference in the lives of many.

Goat Fest 2024 was more than just a fundraising event; it was a celebration of community spirit and shared purpose. The enthusiasm and dedication displayed by our supporters were truly inspiring. Every donation, large or small, is a testament to the collective effort to foster sustainable development and empower those in need.

The success of Goat Fest 2024 would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our donors, volunteers, and participants. Your belief in our mission drives us to continue striving for excellence and pushing the boundaries of what we can achieve together.

As we reflect on this remarkable event, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed. Your support goes beyond financial assistance; it is a powerful affirmation of the work we do and the goals we aim to achieve. We are deeply thankful to have you as part of the Goat Trust family and look forward to continuing this incredible journey with you.

With your continued support, the future looks bright for the Goat Trust and the communities we serve. Together, we are making a real and lasting impact.

Barefoot BBQ sends it home as the The Kitchen Goat Feeds Goat Fest 2024 Grand Champion helping raise over $6,000 that specific day to provide grocery gift cards for LOCAL CANCER PATIENTS!!!

story: Jason Knapp

Cooking with The Kitchen Goat

Chicken Kabobs (serves 2 – 4)

Mushrooms (1 pkg, button or baby bellas)

1 red, yellow, and/or orange peppers

1 Red onion

Cherry or other small tomatoes

Chicken breasts (2)

Mule Dust “Rub Everything” and/or “Basil Bash” Rub

Cut chicken breasts into large “bite” chunks; dredge in Old Mule Rub Everything and/or Basil Bash Rub. Slice peppers and onion into bite size chunks. Leave mushrooms whole if small — in half if large. (I substituted Zucchini for mushrooms but Steve loves mushrooms so his are per recipe).

Alternate the chicken, onion, pepper and the mushrooms on 3-4 metal skewers. Sprinkle Kabobs with a bit more Mule Dust and put the loaded skewers on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil into a preheated 350 degree oven for 35 to 40 minutes or until chicken temperature reaches 160 degrees. Rotate once or twice. For the last few minutes, turn oven to broil and get that great sear on the kabobs. These would also be great on the grill as well!

We drizzled on some Old Mule Sauce after cooking for added kick!

The “Kitchen Goat” Jason Knapp

Once a history teacher, he now raises goats in Nash County, NC, but he’s always had a passion for cooking. At the beginning of the COVID pandemic, he started posting cooking videos on YouTube.

“I called it ‘Cooking a la Quarantine’ and once everything lifted up someone said, ‘Why don’t you call it ‘Kitchen Goat’ and I said, ‘That’s so stupid. Let’s try it,’”

Read more about the Kitchen Goat in the next issue of BB. In the meantime, check out his Facebook page for more recipes and see what he is doing for local cancer patients.

www.facebook.com/jasonknappthekitchengoat

Old Mule “Mule Dust Rubs”...Basil Bash

Check them out at:

www.OldMule.com and give them a try. You’ll be glad ya did.

Read more abouth them on page 46!

Sacred Wolf Tattoos Is Officially open

Angela Wolfe is glad to announce that she has officially reopened her tattoo shop in Wake Forest, NC after battling cancer and winning the fight! She says, “To God Be The Glory”. She is also excited to have a new shop name, Sacred Wolf Tattoos. The new name is part of her journey as she has a new beginning.

Angela has offered Areola (nipple) tattooing to her clients for 13 years, but had never imagined herself having to deal with that very thing. Fortunately, she did well through the treatments and now has been determined cancer free. She is happy to be back in her shop designing and offering custom tattoos.

In addition to offering custom designed tattoos, Angela also offers scar coverup, Areola tattooing and permanent makeup. Her shop is a private studio that’s

very peaceful, clean and reflects her love of Native American culture. She is definitely passionate about her art.

Angela said, “I’m so thankful for all the people that followed my cancer journey, and I can’t thank them enough for all the prayers, encouragement, messages, phone calls, cards and donations that I received. I am so blessed with great friends and clients. God bless those battling now and God bless the families that have lost loved ones”.

Angela loves when she is asked to design tattoos for active military, Veterans, bikers and/or cancer patients/ survivors. She loves meeting and getting to know people that are willing to share their memories and their stories with her. She considers it an honor to be trusted with people’s custom tattoo ideas and then being asked to create them. “For many people, tattoos are like therapy.” No matter the circumstances for someone’s tattoo, she treats her clients like family and looks forward to many more years as an “Ink Therapist”.

OLD MULE

BBQ ~ Marinade ~ Dipping Sauce

Old Mule began as homemade Christmas gifts for family and friends during the 1980’s. Over the years we (Cheryl & Steve) refined our recipe and were eventually prodded by family and friends into starting a business. That was 1990. It only took us another 6 years to actually get our business off the ground (two new careers and 3 children later). Our children have grown up in the business (though, sometimes less enthusiastically than other times) and have been able to learn everything from cooking and maintenance to book-keeping, marketing and tax law. And always, working with people! Our family and community have always been priorities as our business continues to grow.

The name “Old Mule” came out of an appreciation for the working mules of the past. Our parents and grandparents told stories of the mules with which they farmed for many years. We were looking for a good name that tied to our farming background and the farm mules that were once so common (Cheryl’s father wanted to name her after his favorite childhood mule, but her mother forbid it….but that’s another story…In keeping with that era, we package Old Mule Sauce in a style reminiscent of the old time general store.

Today, we continue to cook Old Mule ourselves on our family farm in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina. It seems few companies actually MAKE what they sell or put their label on. Since our beginning, this “made by our family” principle has been important to us (though not always easy). Because of this, we take great pride in our products! We do not try to be “all things to all people” or set a “new North American record for sales growth”. Our goal is simply to provide our customers with a unique, high-quality sauce that will add something special to their gatherings and meals with friends and family..

You can find Old Mule products at Food Lion stores and many other businesses. See their website where you can purchase one jar, a pack of jars, gift boxes and even jugs!!! Old Mule is all-natural… is gluten-free and contains no high-fructose corn syrup, soy, MSG, or artificial preservatives! www.OldMule.com

We love Old Mule on everything we have tried! We even use it as a dipping sauce for nuggets and fries. We will be featuring recipes here with Old Mule products in Behind Barz Mag. Given them a try. You’ll fall in love, too! The Old Mule Company is a biker friendly business!

Doobie ~ Behind Barz Mag

SMILING FACES

BB 20th Anniversary

STICKERS

For 20 years we have included stickers in each issue of the magazine. I personally put each and every sticker in each and every copy myself (Doobie)!!! Here lately folks have gotten bad about pulling stickers out of many copies... I guess because they like the stickers so much. It has happened in the past but not like it has the last few issues. It is unfair to others who pick up a copy of the magazine only to find that their copy does not have a sticker. So, starting with the Jan-Feb 2023 issue of Behind Barz we are not going to place stickers in each copy. We will have stickers available for FREE but you have to send a self addressed, stamped envelope to our PO Box listed on previous page. We will then send you the sticker that goes with this issue (if you write “HOLO BIGFOOT” on the envelope) plus we will throw in 3 more stickers, of our choice. We hate this has to be done but with the time it takes to place each sticker in every copy and then people are pulling the stickers out we feel that this is the best way to do it right now. Thanks for your continued support! We still have lots of killer prizes from our sponsors on the previous page to give away. So remember, you can’t win it if you don’t stick it!