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MAY 2014

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THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE MD-DE-DC

Thunder Roads Magazine® MD-DE-DC 4157 Mountain Road #233 Pasadena, Maryland 21122 Fax # 888- 698-7004 www.trmdel.com

Big City’s Two-Wheel Testament.......................5 What is MX Antix?.............................................6 Joker’s Wild.......................................................9 Big City Road Hounds..................................... 11

Facebook – Thunder Roads Magazine MD-DEL-DC Twitter – TR_BigCity

Letters to a Soldier..........................................13 Rolling Bike Show...........................................16

Editor / Owner / Publisher BIG CITY BIGCITY@TRMDEL.com

Luke’s Wings...................................................20 Tech Tips.........................................................23 Featured Club:Usual Suspects MC.................25 K.I.S.S. in the Kitchen.....................................27 Sippin’ Shine....................................................29

SALES & MARKETING Steve “Hillbilly” Craig Mike “Rhino” Ryan (443) 875-7887 (443) 875-7482 Hillbilly@trmdel.com rhino@trmdel.com Suzy “Carebear” Leighton David “Barney” Barnhouse 302-383-9041 717-465-2292 Carebear@trmdel.com

Center Calendar..............................................30 Featured Bike..................................................32 Tabasco Report...............................................36 Events.............................................................44 Biker Friendly Directory...................................48

Teresa “Blueiz” Christiansen Mike “Tractor” Herbert 301-283-8008 240-298-0472 Blueiz@trmdel.com tractor@trmdel.com

News Bytes.....................................................52 Thunder Cam..................................................58

Laurie “LuLu” Wright 410-533-3551 LuLu@trmdel.com

TNT..................................................................59

Accounting Mike “Bighead” Abbott (443) 875-7597 bighead@trmdel.com

ON THE COVER:

Marketing & Social Media Mgr. Catherine “Kitty” Noske / CRAVE Marketing Solutions 443.591.1882 Kitty@trmdel.com

Model: Hannah Grace Photographer: Dusty Austin

Layout & Design Meredith Hancock / Hancock Graphics Photography Michael J. Alves, www.uspatriotphotography.com Mike “Smiles” Johnson smiles@trmdel.com

Visit us on the web

National Founders Toni McCoy Shearon & Brian Shearon 1528 Matlock Drive, Chapmansboro, TN. 37035 Office: (615) 792-0040 Fax: (615) 792-7580 thunderroadsfounders@yahoo.com

Like Us on Facebook

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NO PART OF ITS CONTENT MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION. PUBLISHER ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY AND IS NOT TO BE HELD LIABLE FOR ERRORS BEYOND THE COST OF THE SPACE OCCUPIED BY THE ERROR, SLANDER OF ANY GROUP OR INDIVIDUAL, FAILURE TO PRODUCE ANY ISSUE AS SCHEDULED DUE TO REASONS BEYOND OUR CONTROL, ANY AND ALL SUITS FOR LIABLE, PLAGIARISM, COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT AND UNAUTHORIZED USE OF A PERSON’S NAME OR PHOTOGRAPH. OPINIONS AND CLAIMS MADE BY ADVERTISERS AND AUTHORS ARE THEIR OWN, AND DO NOT NECESSARILY REPRESENT THE POLICY OF THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE OR THUNDER PUBLISHING. PUBLISHER DOES NOT PROMOTE THE ABUSE OF ALCOHOL OR OTHER DRUGS.

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ow! Spring has sprung! That was the longest winter in history. I was so happy to get out and ride to the First Rolling Thunder Roads MD-DE-DC Bike show at Woodstock Inn. It seemed like everyone was grateful to be outside on what turned out to be a nice spring day. Be sure to check out the winners bike in this monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Readers Ride Section. Follow us on Facebook and look for the future show dates. Hope to see you there. In this issue we try to remember and Honor all those that have and are serving our Country. Please take some time to spend this Memorial Day weekend giving back to those that have given so much for us all. Check out the letters to our soldiers. You can write letters of thanks too. Please remember the ones who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for us and their families. For the POWâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s we will not forget and we are all waiting and hoping for your safe return home soon. God Bless the U.S.A. As always we also need to thank all the new sponsors this month; as they along with the other loyal sponsors make it possible for us to provide you with the markets #1 biker friendly publication. Please be sure to show them your support as well this season. Keep Changing Lanes, Big City

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Allegany County Fairgrounds Cumberland, Maryland June 6, 7, 8, 2014 Gates open to the public at Noon June 6 New for Friday Night!!! “A Night to be Sexy” Lingerie Fashion show Produced by TD Productions We are looking for Guys & Gals who are coming to the party to model! We have something sexy for all sizes up to XXXXL so don’t be shy! Application submission deadline is April 15, 2014. For information, application, and instructions go to http://www.lillysapparel.com/abate-model-search.php or contact Cap’n Dave at capndave@verizon.net

Eat, Drink, & Rock out at the ABATE Saloon With Thunder Walrus & Live Music by:

The McCormicks

Saturday Highlights Scenic Ride Motorcycle Rodeo Field Events Silent Auction Table $5.00 Tshirt Table Drawing for the 2014 raffle bike & other prizes

Pitch a Tent! There is plenty of camping space within in the fairgrounds & there are modern shower & bathroom facilities onsite

Weekend Pass Current ABATE/MRO members $30.00 per person (must show proof of membership) Non Members - 40.00 per person Day Passes 20.00 per day. RV Spaces Available with full hook up: 25.00 per night. must be purchased in advanced along with weekend pass Advanced Ticket Sales and RV Hook UP Reservation Call the ABATE Office for more information and reservations Or register at our website”s on line store

VENDORS! Interested in setting up at the Party? We have a SWEET deal for you!! Contact the State Office for all the details.

Parents are responsible for their children. No one under 18 allowed in the tent after 8:00pm No Pets, No ATV’s or Dirt Bikes

For information contact ABATE of Maryland Inc, 410-263-9185 or email md.abate@rcn.com www.abateofmd.org 4

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The Lord Is For Me The LORD is for me; I will not fear; what can man do to me? The LORD is for me; among those who help me. Psalm 118:6-7 Pictures. We love them, don’t we? Our minds are wired for pictures. One of the great allures of Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram, and other social media sites is the ability to post photographs. It is fun (and somewhat addicting) to scroll through the current pictures of our friends from yesteryear. Reading text is one thing, but seeing a picture takes it to a new level. The old saying is really true, “A picture as worth a thousand words.” So, what do you “picture” when you think of God? Sadly, many people picture God as a stern, impossible-toplease deity, sitting on the throne of the universe with a bad disposition and a hair-trigger temper. He has a big billy club in one hand and a bag of thunder bolts in the other. He is chomping at the bit to unleash fiery judgment on those who stray outside the lines. Well, if that is how you view God, if that is the picture of Him that hangs in the halls of your mind, it is going to be impossible for you to ever get close to Him. Why would you even want to?

What does the Bible say about God? Is He really mean, cruel, and condemning as the devil would have us believe? Certainly not! God is good, loving, gracious, merciful, and compassionate. He is the God who is for us, not against us. He is the God who wants to help us, not hurt us or condemn us. He is the father of the prodigal son, the one who runs to us and showers us with kisses and compassion the moment we turn to Him in repentance and faith. To be sure, God is holy and righteous. He wants His children to walk in His righteousness, because it is in His righteousness that we find security, peace, and blessings. He takes no pleasure in us when we go our own way and do our own thing. It grieves Him to watch us walk in darkness. He knows our rebellion will only produce pain as we get away from His will for our lives. The prodigal sowed his wild oats … and reaped a bitter crop of pig slop. And the father wept for his wayward son. So, what do we do when we miss the mark, succumb to temptation, and sin against God? We quickly come to Him in godly sorrow and confession. We remind ourselves of the truth that He wants to help us in our time of need (Heb.4:16). We remember what the Nazi concentration camp survivor Corrie ten Boom said, “No matter how deep the sin, God’s love is deeper still.” Are you distant from God today? Do you see Him as disgusted and displeased with you? Take down that faulty caricature of God and replace it with the real picture. He is never disgusted with His children. Certainly, He gets displeased with our sinful actions, but not with us. He loves us with an everlasting love. He says to us today, “Come to Me. I am for you. I want to help you. I want to turn your sorrows into joy and get your life back on track with Me.” What an awesome invitation from the King! So, what is your answer to Him? Are you distant from God today? Do you see Him as disgusted and displeased with you? Take down that faulty caricature of God and replace it with the real picture. He is never disgusted with His children. Certainly, He gets displeased with our sinful actions, but not with us. He loves us with an everlasting love. He says to us today, “Come to Me. I am for you. I want to help you. I want to turn your sorrows into joy and get your life back on track with Me.” What an awesome invitation from the King! So, what is your answer to Him?

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What is

MX Antix is a ‘FREE TO READ’ online Junior & Mini motocross magazine based in New Zealand. Our first magazine was released in March 2012 and we cover competitions & events, profiling local & international riders, new products and anything associated with Junior & Mini MX. All of our issues can be read from our website www.mxantix.com MX Antix came about because our 15 year old son raced mx through the mini’s and now the junior ranks. He use to buy a Mini MX magazine out of the States, but it was discontinued and there was nothing to replace it with. It became apparent that we could easily put a magazine together with all the necessary information and photos we gathered from participating at club days and major motocross events throughout the year in New Zealand. With the help of our other son who was in IT, we were able to put together the first magazine and have since produced a total of 8 magazines.

To help promote our magazine, we run a race team of 8 Junior & Mini riders from 6 through to 18 years of age with 5 of these riders holding seven NZ #1 titles. All riders participate at the highest level and travel far and wide to compete.In 2012, we also started bringing top Australian MX coach Greg Moss from the Moss Institute of MX & SX Coaching out to NZ to train young riders. Greg trains Australia’s top senior riders, including his twin sons Matt & Jake Moss, Meg Rutledge - Australia’s #1 Women’s rider and a lot of the best junior riders Australia has produced. MX Antix USA came about when we saw a photo on Facebook of little Kyle Born and we came up with the idea of showcasing overseas riders in the magazine. We approached his mum, Erika Born, they were excited that he would be profiled in the next magazine in October 2012. We invited the Borns to come to New Zealand and race the 2013 Mini Nationals under the MX Antix team

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banner. With the support of hundreds of friends, family, the MX community, social media promotions, and The York Daily Record Newspaper, the family raised the airfare and were on their way to compete in the largest mini mx event in New Zealand. From their experience they have made new friends, experienced a new country and taken away lots of memories. The media exposure we received was huge and we felt this was the perfect time to grow the New Zealand based magazine internationally. We asked Erika to form and manage a USA team of 6 young riders. Erika and David returned to Pennsylvania and began rider selection. They were looking for riders that showed good sportsmanship, would be positive role models, raced national and local races, and had parents that were supportive and positive in the riders’ life. They selected 6 riders which included their 5 year old son Kyle. Quickly they went from a being a “team” to a “family”. Each rider and parent was excited to be on the team and was ready with ideas and connections to get the team “branded”. Erika was very motivated and within 2 weeks she had secured and signed up 16 team sponsors. Erika is now working on bringing Greg Moss from The Moss Institute to the USA and train young American riders. He will be in the USA for 2 weeks in August at North Carolina & Delaware. Our aim every year is to get the USA team riders to the NZ Nationals and also the NZ team riders to USA to race. All riders on the MX Antix team will have accommodation, bike and race fees provided for any race they attend in NZ or the USA. 5 of the USA team are working hard towards qualifying for Loretta Lynn’s. We have friends from all over the world and Facebook & social media is where we find the biggest exposure for the magazine and we are constantly monitoring and updating our page daily THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE MD-DE-DC

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3-D HEAD CUSTOM PAINT® KNOXVILLE, TN 865-621-9836 Ask for KENNY or TONY

Due to the current financial situation caused by the slowdown in the economy, the Government has decided to implement a scheme to put workers of 60 years of age and above on early, mandatory retirement, thus creating jobs and reducing unemployment. This scheme will be known as RAPE (Retire Aged People Early). Persons selected to be RAPED can apply to the Government to be considered for the SHAFT program (Special Help After Forced Termination). Persons who have been RAPED and SHAFTED will be reviewed under the SCREW program (System Covering Retired-Early Workers). A person may be RAPED once, SHAFTED twice and SCREWED as many times as the Government deems appropriate. Persons who have been RAPED could get AIDS (Additional Income for Dependents & Spouse) or HERPES (Half Earnings for Retired Personnel Early Severance). Obviously persons who have AIDS or HERPES will not be SHAFTED or SCREWED any further by the Government. Persons who are not RAPED and are staying on will receive as much CHIT (Challenged High Intensity Training) as possible. The Government has always prided themselves on the amount of CHIT they give our citizens. Should you feel that you do not receive enough CHIT, please bring this to the attention of your MP, who has been trained to give you all the CHIT you can personally handle. Sincerely & Dutifully, The Committee for Economic Value of Individual Lives aka (E.V.I.L.) P.S. - Due to recent budget cuts and the rising cost of electricity, gas and oil, as well as current market conditions; The Light at the End of the Tunnel has now been turned off. *Updates to follow. _______________________________________________

back, ‘Make up your damn mind. Last night you told me to go fly a kite!’ _______________________________________________ Of all the blonde jokes, this one has to be one of the best -- because it makes football make sense! A guy took his blonde girlfriend to her first football game. They had great seats right behind their team’s bench. After the game, he asked her how she liked it. “Oh, I really liked it,” she replied, “especially the tight pants and all the big muscles, but I just couldn’t understand why they were killing each other over 25 cents.” Dumbfounded, her boyfriend asked, “What do you mean?” “Well, they flipped a coin, one team got it and then for the rest of the game, all they kept screaming was...........’Get the quarterback! Get the quarterback!’ I’m like...Helloooooo? It’s only 25 cents !!

Lanny was in his back yard trying to launch a kite. He threw the kite up in the air, the wind would catch it for a few seconds, then, it would come crashing back down to Earth. He tried this a few more times with no success. All the while, my wife, Deb, is watching from the kitchen window, muttering to herself how men need to be tutored on how to do most everything. She opens the window and yelled out; ‘Hey, you need a piece of tail.’ Lanny turned with a confused look on his face and yelled THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE MD-DE-DC

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Bru – Hi there! My name is Bru and I am a five year old mastiff mix looking for a hiking partner to call my own! I love going for walks and playing with my favorite Jolly ball. I’d like to consider myself a smart boy so training classes with a positive reinforcement trainer is something I am interested in! BHS has some trainers that would love to get us set up together! Naturally I should always be kept on lead while out on my walks and hikes so we don’t get separated. Hope to see you soon!

Parcheezi I’m Parcheezi and I’m a super happy three year old girl who would love to have a new forever home. I love people, getting attention and belly rubs. Going for long walks with my new family would make me really happy and you’ll enjoy it too. I also like playing with squeaky toys, stuffed animals and being a “wiggle-butt”. In my previous home I lived with kids and they loved me as much as I hope you will. Stop in soon to see me.

Jazz – Are you looking for someone to “jazz” up your life? Well here I am! My name is Jazz and I am a playful one year old boy in need of a forever home. I really enjoy cuddle time and giving kisses. I am quite the gentleman, if I do say so my-self. I walk really well on a leash and even know some commands if you give me a crunchy treat! My favorite thing is to get booty rubs. I love a good scratch. I am also a Shakespearean actor. I co-starred in a production of Richard III with the Baltimore Shakespeare Factory recently! If you want a fun loving boy that will keep you entertained, stop in and say hello!

Roxanne – Roxanne is my name and making you fall for me is my game! I’m a sweet seven year ol Labrador Retriever mix in need of a loving forever home. I love to cuddle on the sofa with people and get belly rubs. So if you’re looking for a lap dog, then I’m the gal for you. I am very food and treat motivated so if you tell me to “sit” for a treat or snack, then you can be sure I’ll do it. In my previous home I lived with another dog and children ages 3 to 11. Please stop in soon and ask to meet me. I’m hoping you will fall for me as quickly as the staff did. My adoption fee is half off because I qualify for the senior discount!

Baltimore Humane Society 1601 Nicodemus Road, Reisterstown, MD 21136 T: 410-833-8848 | F: 410-833-4481 www.bmorehumane.org Baltimore Humane Society: A no-kill shelter protecting, saving, and caring for animals since 1927! THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE MD-DE-DC

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Letters to a soldier

Dear Servic e Member, My name is Jonathan an d I am eleven old. I like to p years lay basketba ll, and I play t trumpet. Tha he nk you for se rving for our I appreciate country. that you are doing this not yourself, but for for the bene fit of our fre We will be pra e dom. ying for you! Sincerely, Jonathan

Dear Sgt. Bergdahl, I am writing this letter to you knowing you probably won’t ever see it. I can’t know the pain you have gone through or the hopeless feeling you must deal with everyday. Your days must be filled with thoughts of your Mom and Dad or your friends and hometown. I visit my hometown about every other week. I can’t imagine going over 5 years and not being able to see my family, and friends. I can’t imagine the conditions you are being held are very good. I’m pretty sure you don’t have the comforts of home. I have three sons and sometimes go one or two days without talking to them and I start to go nuts. I can only imagine not speaking to them for so many years. I hope you get to come home soon. It has been way too long for you to still be held captive. I have worn your POW bracelet for two years now. We have not forgotten you. I pray for your release each day and I Thank You for your service. We will never be able to repay you for what you have gone through. Thank you sounds so hollow when I think about what you have sacrificed. This Memorial day you will once again occupy my thoughts and prayers. I pray that this is the last Memorial Day you will be away from all those that you love. In closing, I will not forget that you are not home yet. We need to bring all of our POW’s home and we won’t rest until you are all home safe. God Bless you and the U.S.A. Don Severn, MD

Dear Brave Men & Women, e and thank I wanted to take a moment to writ us safe back you for all you are doing to keep is out of this home. The courage you possess risk your life world. Each day you wake up and for me as well. not only for your loved ones, but , but “Thank I know you don’t hear this enough and return You.” Stay strong, stay safe, home soon. Forever Grateful, Jesse - 28 THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE MD-DE-DC

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MAY 2014

t was a great day for riding and we want to thank everyone for coming out and supporting our show. Special thanks to Woodstock Inn for allowing us to host this event at their venue and to the vendors who came out to provide some quality merchandise for you to look thru and buy. These vendors were Boogey Lights/Custom Dynamics, The Chamber Room, Cycle Shack, Wicked Killa Ink Tattoo & Piercing Studios, Whirled of Color Custom Paint and Airbrush Studios, and Rider Insurance on site as well giving free quotes and once again proving they are the insurance company made for the motorcycle community by offering you the best rates. Look for updates on Facebook about the upcoming shows. Rhino

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A few words from our Winner Tony Martin:

Winner – Best in Show –

Tony Martin

Congrats to Tony Martin, winner of the 1st of five Best in Show Bike Show sponsored by Rider Insurance that we will be holding this year. Tony along with the remaining Best in Show winners will be entered in the Thunder Roads Magazine MD-DE-DC, Best of the Best Competition this September at OC Bikes to the Beach. Where you our readers and participants at the event will get the chance to vote on their favorite. Winner of the Best of the Best Competition will be featured as the 2014 Riders Insurance sponsored Thunder Roads Magazines Best of the Best Bike Show Winner on the Cover and Calendar of the Jan 2015 Edition of Thunder Roads Magazine MD-DE-DC. Also the winner will receive a free bike show entry into the Timonium Bike Show 2015 and (2) two Free entry tickets to three of the best rallies in the area Mountainfest 2015, Apple’s East Coast Motorcycle Rally 2015, and OC Bikefest 2015.

I wanted to tell you I love the magazine and all that you guys bring to the motorcycle community. I had no expectations of winning and really wasn’t expecting to win Best in Show. I just went down and thought it would be fun to enter my bike in a show. Wow I surprised when you called my name out for Best in Show. This all started by me taking the Motorcycle Safety course and getting my License. I think everyone should have to take that course. Anyways here is a little about the Steel Horse I ride. I bought my 2010 Vivid Black Road King in April of 2011 from a guy and I put on a single Corbin Seat and beach bars and in the winter of that year I purchased an aftermarket fairing and a Biketronics sound system then went to some shows to get ideas on a paint theme. I kept the bike with all the stock tins and just added the fairing, I was trying to be a little different in the bagger style look. I had a few people give me some painter names and decided to let Chuck Buckler paint it. I purchased the Paint from Finish Masters Inc. and the color is a House of Kolor Kandy Tangerine with a gold base that Chuck suggested would look great. Chuck did the Skulls and Tribal theme I was looking for and everywhere I ride my bike turns heads. I just recently added some Arlen Ness Deep Edge Cut grips, pegs, saddlebag latches and grill plate along with the RC Savage Eclipse Wheels with matching rotors. All the parts were put on at F+S Cycle in Eldersburg MD. I want to put a shout out to Chuck Buckler at chuckbdesign.com for the AWESOME paint job and Michelle Lilja Salesman for Finishmaster mrlilja@ finishmaster.com for supplying the paint materials and my brother Chip Martin and buddy John Ferguson because if it wasn’t for them I would of never got my first Harley and had this opportunity to win this trophy. God Bless America and thanks to everyone and I hope you enjoy my bike.

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www.battlefieldleathersinc.com N k Yor

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Hours: Hours:Mon.-Fri. M,W,Th,F10-6; 10-6;Sat. Sat10-5; 10-5;Sun. Sun 10-4 10-4

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Owner: Cathi Burke

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MAY 2014

Luke’s Wings

uke’s Wings was founded in January 2008 with the express mission of bringing loved ones to the bedsides of wounded warriors at Walter Reed. Since inception, Luke’s Wings has provided more than 1,400 airplane tickets, thus reuniting wounded warriors with their loved ones during their darkest moments, the most painful surgeries, and their happiest times too, like Christmas morning, their birthdays, and their alive days. Luke’s Wings is named after two people: Luke Shirley and Sarah Wingfield. Luke was a wounded warrior at Walter Reed in May, 2007. Sarah Wingfield was a Redskins Cheerleader who met Luke, and his mother, during an event at the hospital. Sarah recounted her experience with Fletcher Gill in December, 2007. Light bulbs went off and the two of them founded the charity in January, 2008. In 2008, Luke’s Wings began fundraising, process planning, and relationship building with Walter Reed. By the end of their first year, Luke’s Wings had provided 19 airplane tickets to 6 wounded warrior families. In 2009, they increased the charities performance to just over 100 flights and had developed relationships with other military hospitals across the county including, but not limited to, San Antonio Military Medical Center (The Intrepid). In 2010, Luke’s Wings provided another 100+ flights and had achieved something very important: staying power. In 2011, everything changed; Fletcher Gill was featured as the “Power Player of the Week” on National Fox News with Chris Wallace. Within minutes, donations flooded in. All told, Luke’s Wings raised more than $700,000 in the 48 hours following the news package. Of course, Luke’s Wings increased the number of flights provided. In total, more than 650 flights were provided in 2011. Today, Luke’s Wings is raising about $1,000,000 a year and providing about 1,000 flights per year. Luke’s Wings has also expanded their mission.

Speaking with Lindsay Kin, Executive Director of Corporate Sponsorship at Luke’s Wings, we learned about two Luke’s Wings stories. The first, a wounded service member recovering at Fort Carson, Colorado, suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, at 10am on a random Tuesday, received a call from a hospital in Boston Massachusetts. His father was dying and the doctors thought his father would pass at any moment. The wounded warrior told his Red Cross liaison who, in turn, told Luke’s Wings. A Luke’s Wings volunteer called the wounded warrior and said “pack your bag. You’re on the next flight out.” A flight was booked in less than 10 minutes and, in a snow storm, a Luke’s Wings volunteer drove the wounded warrior to the airport. He was on the next flight and in Boston, wheels down, that same afternoon. The best part about the story; they told his father that his son was on the way. His father held on and the two had 3 hours together at the Boston hospital before his father passed away, with his son by his side. The second story involves a 12 year old boy named Cody Allen. Cody’s father was shot in the head by a sniper in Afghanistan (the snipers shoot for the head and neck to avoid the body armor). Cody’s father was in a coma at James A. Haley medical center in Tampa Florida. His father had gone under the knife for two cranioplasties (brain surgeries to restore the skull) and was still in a comma. Cody called Luke’s Wings personally and requested a flight to his father’s bedside over Memorial Weekend, 2010. Cody sat by his father’s side for 3 long days, holding his hand the whole time. His father later woke up and is now back home and working on his recovery. Today, Luke’s Wings still provides flights to wounded warrior families but is also the exclusive partner to Special Operations Command (S.O.C.O.M.) and their Care Coalition so that all our injured

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Special Operations Forces (SOF) has their family and loved ones by their bedsides when they wake up in the hospital. Also, Luke’s Wings has become a provider of flights to WWII Veterans and Korean War Veterans in Hospice Care. Luke’s Wings CEO, Fletcher Gill says “providing end-of-life flights to WWII Veterans is our final salute to the greatest generation that every lived. And it feels great knowing they will always be surrounded by their loved ones, and never alone, when they pass away.” Last year, a supporter and a patriot, Mike DiMartino, who is the designer and builder of the Luke’s Wings Trike Bike presented the Trike to Luke’s Wings. Mike and his team brought the Trike to Rolling Thunder 2012. A wounded warrior, and beneficiary of the Luke’s Wings program, Jessie Fletcher, was honored at Battley Harley Davidson and at Rolling Thunder. When the veteran riders at the Pentagon parking lots saw the Trike and Jessie Fletcher, complete with two prosthetic legs, the seas parted and Luke’s Wings was ushered further and further to the front of the line. In the end, the Trike Bike, with Jessie Fletcher riding in the back, was sent to the very front and became one of the leader

bikes riding alongside the Rolling Thunder directors in front of 500,000 American Patriot riders. A video of the Trike riding in the Rolling Thunder 2012 can be found at the Luke’s Wings website and YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/lukeswings The Trike is also available for private sale by contacting information@lukeswings.org For anyone who wants to help reunite more wounded warriors, injured special operations forces and WWII veterans with their families, here’s how you can help: Donate on the Luke’s Wings website at www.lukeswings.org Donate on the mobile website at www.razmobile.com/fly Donate $10 on your smart phone by texting “wings” to 80888 Become a corporate sponsor by emailing lindsaykin@lukeswings.org Add Luke’s Wings to your CFC giving with CFC#40077 Mail a check payable to Luke’s Wings, 1238 Wisconsin Avenue N.W., Suite 401, Washington DC, 20007

TION FOR BIKES-TO-THE-BEA A C O L T CH HO S

Great Drink Specials Loads Of Vendors Live Music All Weekend

Michelle Smith

September 10th - 14th Bike Show Hosted by Thunder Roads

HOOPER’S CRAB HOUSE

At the Foot of the Rt. 50 Bridge THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE MD-DE-DC

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SWING ARM SWAP!

ere is a tech tip for all owners of the 1984-2001 FL model Harley Davidson’s. Before the next time you get ready to head out on your bike for a ride, pop off your saddle bags and take a real close look at the area where the axle is located. After so many years and so many tire changes the metal in this area gets stressed and starts to crack. This doesn’t happen to everyone. A lot has to do with applying the proper torque when tightening the axle nut. You would think that it wouldn’t hurt by taking an adjustable wrench and cranking down on the axle nut until it feels tight. This is one of the main causes of the swing arm cracking. The swing arm is hollow and has no inner support to keep it from collapsing when over tightened. If you happen to be one of the unlucky ones that found a crack in your swing arm, you have two options. Replace it with another one just like the one that cracked, or update it with a Custom Cycle Engineering retrofit kit. This allows you to use a swing arm from the years 2002-2008. These swing arms are solid at the areas where the axle is located. The retrofit kit consists of a swing arm pivot shaft and all the spacers and bushings needed to perform the swap. You need to supply the swing arm, 02 and up rear brake caliper, 1 inch wheel bearing, 1 inch FL rear axle, 02 and up swing arm bearings. I’ve done this upgrade on a couple of dressers in the past year (sorry Craig!) and after the swap there was a noticeable improvement in how the bike handles. Thanks for reading and don’t be afraid to contact us with your questions, we may even use them as the topic for our next article! Keep the shiny side up! Slade Kunkel

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Suspects, there is no “Mother Chapter” or “Founding Fathers” in control over the other chapters. The other core belief of the Usual Suspects is friendship. We are brothers-in-arms of that “thin blue line” and we ride as friends, not just members. The goal of the Usual Suspects is to become a law enforcement motorcycle club with a membership of friends, no man above the other.

FEATURED CLUB

Usual Suspects Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club-Arizona Chapter The Usual Suspects Motorcycle Club, Arizona Chapter, is a 501c3 non-profit, law enforcement motorcycle club. We raise money to support our mission and have no paid staff. Donations are tax-deductible. We work closely with our partners Concerns of Police Survivors-Arizona Chapter (COPS-AZ) and Phoenix Law Enforcement Association (PLEA), both non—profit 501c3 organizations with no employees and the funds generated go directly to the families of fallen law enforcement officers. OUR MISSION Our mission is to support the families of fallen and injured law enforcement officers. We endeavor to accomplish this by providing financial assistance to the families as well as emotional support. VALUES 1. We maintain our priorities in this order: 1. Family 2. Career

DEVILS’OVEN MEMORIAL EVENT Annually the Arizona Chapter conducts an event titled: Devil’s Oven Memorial Event. Conducted each year in October, the 2014 will be our 10th annual memorial event. The purpose is to: united the families, agencies, fellow officers and the public to honor Arizona’s fallen and injured heroes. The event will be conducted October 16, 17 and 18 2014, at the Marriott Suites Old Town Scottsdale. Pinal County Sheriff Paul Babeu continues to be the chapters Emcee and guest speaker Sheriff Joe Arpaio from Maricopa County Sheriff Officer will be in attendance. The event is open to the public and we encourage your attendance to support the families, agencies and officers. THIN BLUE LINE: What does the Thin Blue Line represent? 1. The Blue represents the officer and the courage they find deep inside when faced with insurmountable odds. 2. The Black background was designed as a constant reminder of our fallen brother and sister officers. 3. The Line, the line is what cops protect, the barrier between anarchy and a civilized society, between order and chaos, between respect for decency and lawlessness. 4. Together they symbolize the camaraderie we all share, a brotherhood like none other. THE HONOR TABLE

3. Club 2. We endeavor to support the families of law enforcement officers killed or injured in the line of duty to the best of our ability, particularly those in Arizona. 3. The Usual Suspects motto is “No Man Above Another”. 4. The Usual Suspects LEMC, Arizona Chapter is a nonpartisan organization and does not support or oppose any political party, candidate for elective office, or office holder. 5. We are inclusive of all areas of diversity including, but not limited to, race, ethnicity, color, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, religion, age, socioeconomic status, marital status, language, or disability. HISTORY The Usual Suspects Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club was established on November 23, 2008 in Prince George’s County, Maryland. At the heart of the philosophy of the Usual Suspects lies the belief that every member is of equal value. The original Maryland Chapter has attempted to establish a set of rules and by-laws to create a system of order in which every member’s ideas and opinions are important and shall be heard and considered. Other than those basic rules and by-laws which have been established for the efficient operation and common good of the organization of the Usual THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE MD-DE-DC

MAY 2014

1. Table set for one symbolizes the absence of our beloved officer 2. White tableware is symbolic of the purity of his intentions to respond to the need in his community 3. Single red rose signifies the blood that was shed in sacrifice for our safety and freedom 4. Yellow ribbon represents the ribbons worn on the lapels of those who demand remembrance of their loved one 5. Slice of lemon represents the bitter fate of his loss 6. Salt sprinkled on the place is symbolic of the countless fallen tears of family and friends 7. Inverted glass is to represent the fact that the fallen cannot partake 8. Empty chair symbolizes the fallen that is not present 9. Candle is reminiscent of the light of hope which lives in our hearts to illuminate his way home

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K.I.S.S. page composed & edited by: Toni McCoy Shearon aka “MaMa Thunder” of Thunder Roads Tennessee i have chosen this name for our monthly recipe page, as that was what my mother, rest her soul, always used to say when I would assist her in the kitchen. mom was an avid supporter of the kiss (keep it simple sweetie) method of cooking. i now, more than ever, truely appreciate her philosophy of always taking shortcuts where you can, as long as your ultimate outcome is that of down home, labor of love cooking.

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

Props to: Michael Symon on The Chew, ABC Network

in Buttermilk for at least 1 hour. Shake off excess & pat dry. Combine Mayo with real Parmesan cheese in a flat, pie curst dish. Dredge chicken through mixture and get in there with your hands and make sure it gets coated really well. Now, take each piece over to the bread crumbs dish and thoroughly coat each side. Pat down to make sure it really adheres. Place on an elevated rack and just let sit for apprx. 15 minutes. Place on flat pan sprayed with butter spray or a silt cover. Bake at 425 for 20 minutes until deep, rich golden brown. Let rest 5 minutes. OMG! Sprinkle more Parmesan on them fresh out of the oven and a drizzle of lime or lemon (your preference) juice on each. Delicioso

MOM’S DAY TREAT.....BREAKFEST IN BED CORNFLAKE CRUSTED FRENCH TOAST 3 Large Eggs 1 Cup of Half & Half 3 Tbls. of Sugar or Baking Splenda 1 Tbl. of Cinnamon 1/2 tsp. Real Vanilla 4 Very thick slices of Challah or Brioche Bread; a hearty, heavy-duty bread. Sliced about 1” thick (4) feeds 2, for extra people, double or triple recipe THANK YOU! ALL VETS AND ACTIVE 3 Cups of Plain Cornflakes; crushed very slightly MILITARY; WARM YUKON POTATO SALAD 1 Cup of Slivered Almonds (or chopped) 1-1/2 Yukon Gold potatoes; bring to a full boil in salted Combine eggs, 1/2 & 1/2, sugar, cinnamon, and Vanilla in water until tender. Drain & cool only slightly. Mix up: 1/3 flat pie crust dish and whisk up thoroughly. cup Balsamic Vinegar, 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil, 1/4 Combine cornflakes and almonds in another dish. stick butter, 1 tsp. Dijon mustard, 1/2 cup of parsley flakes Over medium heat, in a pre-heated skillet, add about 1/4 (fresh) & 1 bunch of scallions; white bulb & only tender green stick of butter. Add pieces of your bread one at a time and parts, sliced thin. Mix all liquids together and toss gently by let each side soak up mix, but not get soggy. Transfer to fingertips over potatoes. Sprinkle parsley throughout. I always skillet. Do all pieces quickly so they’ll be done at the same toss in some Sour Cream and mix up too. So Good! time. Flip when you peek and they’re a golden brown. BANANA BUTTER MAPLE SYRUP: MAMA’S HAPPY ENDING (Don’t go there sico’s) 1-1/2 of your fave Pure Maple Syrup 1 Pkg. (2 layer size) White Cake Mix 2 Bananas; sliced to your desired thickness 3 Cups of Flaked Coconut; Divided 2 Tbls. of Butter 1-1/4 Cups Cold Milk; Divided Heat up syrup and butter slowly until really hot. Add in 1 Pkg. Jello-O Coconut Cream Instant Pudding bananas and let heat thru. Serve hot over Mom’s 1 Pkg. Jell-O Vanilla Instant Pudding French Toast. Now this is how “The Queen of the Home” 1/4 Cup Powdered Sugar should be treated. And oh yes, you shall be rewarded! 1 Tub (8 oz.) Cool Whip Topping Make care per directions, adding in the coconut, milk and dry “VET’S CHOICE” PARMESAN CRUSTED CHICKEN coconut pudding mix. Pour into prepared sprayed pans. Cook, 2 Cups of Buttermilk then cool for 10 minutes. Remove from pans and cool totally. 1 Cup Hellmann’s Real Mayonnaise or Light Next, beat dry vanilla pudding mix, sugar and remaining milk 1/2 Cup of Real Parmesan Cheese (Buy a brick at in large bowl with whisk. This will be thick. Stir in Cool Whip. the Deli counter and use a box grater) REAL Parmesan Refrigerate until ready to put cake together. Put down a cake makes all the difference in the world. doily and one cake, cut a straight line to off if too rounded to 4 Large Chicken Breast Halves; Skin On make it flat. Frost all over top, sprinkle good with coconut, 1 Flat, Shallow Pie dish halfway filled with then add 2nd layer and frost that baby all over. Sprinkle Italian Seasoned Bread Crumbs coconut all over top and kinda’ throw it onto sides and then Salt & Pepper your bread crumbs thoroughly press some too. Mom will LOVE this & you! Lay chicken out in a 9x13 glass baking dish and submerge THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE MD-DE-DC

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& A Grateful Nation

It is a rare occasion when I find myself at a loss for words. When it happens it is usually worthwhile to check out what is going on. I will not interview anyone on this page during the month of May until we bring our POW/MIA soldiers home. This column is usually filled with stories of good times and memories. Each May at the end of the month this country celebrates a holiday known as Memorial Day. Bikers come from near and far to hold a rally and ride to bring attention to our POW/MIAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. I spent a few days this year with the Rolling Thunder MC and the Nam Knights MC and began to see how much these two groups do to make this rally the huge event it has become. I talked to my partners and we joined the rally the best way we can. This page will remain empty each May until they all come home. God Bless All that have served. God Bless those that have paid the price of Freedom for us. God Bless the Families of the fallen. Please God continue to bless the United States of America!

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Model: Hannah Grace

Model: cynthia cooke 32

photographyer: dusty austin

Photographer: dusty austin

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h a n n a H

MAY 2014

The Scuttlebutt Waterfront Bar and Grille Cobb Island, Maryland

The Small Little Place with the Great Big View TWERKING CONTEST—MAY 17TH 9:00PM—CASH PRIZES

12320 Neale Sound Dr Cobb Island,MD 20625

240-233-3113

MAY 2014

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE MD-DE-DC

MAY 2014

it’s a matter of pride Recently I had the honor of welcoming home one of our MC Club Brothers from Afghanistan. I’m ashamed to say this is the first time in my life that I participated in a Military Homecoming fresh off the busses. It was truly awe inspiring. Many of us have seen it on social media or in videos on the internet. I can now tell you first hand the computer does it no justice. To see the raw emotions in the actions and faces of the soldiers returning home, and the families was incredible. The children, I can’t even write it justice, you just need to go see it. Probably most of you feel as I felt, if I didn’t know anyone personally returning from service, I really don’t belong at their homecoming. Nothing could be further from the truth. When our club rolled in to the crowd at this particular High school, of course we got the usual stares, wandering eyes and whispers in the body of citizens that were gathered to receive their loved ones. But you know there were other MC Patches there with Military Affiliations. I approached one of those patch holders and introduced myself. We chatted a bit and as it turned out he knows one of our Chapter Bosses from riding. I asked him who he was there to receive, and he said. “The Soldiers”. He had in fact ridden out in the bitter cold and rains that day not to greet one, but to greet them all. That’s Awesome. Well we greeted our Brother, and many hugs and handshakes were exchanged within our group, as well as several pictures taken. But do you know what else happened? Other soldiers who had greeted their families began to ask if they could have their pictures taken with our club as well. Total strangers bonded in the celebrations of Freedom. Wow. It was incredible, and I have never been so honored. So it got me thinking about the connections of the MC Community and the Military. I made a phone call to a Great Brother I know who rides in The Leathernecks MC Ohio, JCP Chapter and asked him if I could come and pick their brain about their club. If you are not familiar, The Leathernecks MC exists out of a desire to honor the Brotherhood and Memory of the United Stated Marine Corp and Fleet Marine Force Navy Corpsman. These brothers fly a Three Piece Patch with an MC Cube. They are the real deal, as you would expect out of the tradition of the United States Marine Corp. The “JCP” Chapter is named after United States Marine Lance Corporal Joe C. Paul, U.S. Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient who valiantly gave his life in Vietnam 36

defending wounded soldiers in battle so they could be evacuated. (www.cmohs.org). We gathered at an American Legion Post on a Saturday afternoon, shared a few brews and we chatted. What a great group of Veterans and Bikers these guys are. Oh I’ve met many of them before, and they have attended our club parties, but this is the first time I had the honor of just sitting, laughing, and sharing stories, and a message. The message that these are many of the Soldiers under which their sacrifices have paved the way for the Freedoms we enjoy. They do so many charitable activities to honor of their Brotherhood of Veterans. Some of the recipients of their charity have been The Wounded Warrior Project (www. WoundedWarriorProject. Org), The Marine Corps Family Support Community, the Chillicothe Veterans Home and the Chalmers P. Wylie VA Ambulatory Care Facility (www.Columbus. VA.Gov). But their charitable contributions are not limited to large organizations as it was explained to me. There was Veteran who suffered serious burns and a loss of his home in a fire, and the Leathernecks MC were right there to help. Plus they escort the remains of soldiers who have passed that maybe had no living relatives, escort living Veterans to DC as well as participate in guarding the Vietnam Traveling Wall. They also meet returning WWII veterans that have participated in Honor Flight and support the Honor Flight annual reunion and fundraiser. These guys keep busy. But what is the connection to the MC life you might ask? It’s pretty obvious to those of us who understand the bond of Brotherhood, even if you’ve never had the honor of serving your country in the military. It’s about feelings like “the normal rules of friendship don’t apply”, because clubs are Brotherhoods, not just friendships. It’s the same feeling of love and connection that it has been explained to me as in being with your units, in combat or otherwise. It’s Family. So if you should find yourself wanting to take a road trip, may I make a couple of suggestions? On Saturday April 5th 2014 and Saturday October 4th 2014 the Leathernecks Ohio JCP chapter will be holding their annual Charity Spaghetti Dinners 3-8pm at the American Legion Post 430, 3227 East Livingston Ave. Columbus Ohio 43227. Adults $10 Donation Children $5 Donation. Or their 5th Annual Poker Run Saturday June 21st starting at the Outback Steakhouse 6000 East Main St.

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THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE MD-DE-DC

Reynoldsburg Oh. Last Bike out at 1pm. $15 Donation Rider, $10 Donation Passengers. If you can get out and support these Brothers, please do. If you are unable to make the trip depending on where you’re reading this, please take some time this year to support our Veterans. The personal sacrifices that our soldiers have taken on voluntarily or otherwise throughout American History should be honored and respected. It is how this country was formed, and it is how it has stayed the “Land of the Free, and the Home of The Brave”, and for most of them, aging or otherwise, it’s the least we can do to support them, it’s a matter of pride! Thanks For Reading.. God Bless our Soldiers! Tabasco – Courtesy Derek Smith, Publisher, Thunder Roads Ohio THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE MD-DE-DC

JUNE 7

during the THUNDER ROADS

Rolling Bike Show IF INTERESTED IN SIGNING UP CONTACT FOUL MOUTH AL ON FACEBOOK

THE FOUL MOUTH AL SHOW

www.foulmouthal.com MAY 2014

MAY 2014

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THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE MD-DE-DC

MAY 2014

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE MD-DE-DC

Protect your bike and your budget. I know you can’t imagine life without two wheels. Allstate offers protection with one purpose: to keep riders riding. Allstate’s Rider Protection Package®, Genuine Parts Guarantee and New Motorcycle Replacement help keep you and your bike on the roadall with savings up to 50%. Call me today for a fast, free quote.

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MOTORCYCLE

upcoming events

TRMDEL is not responsible for inaccuracies or the specifics of the information provided. If you would like your event listed, please email details and your contact information to: Events@TRMDEL.com

Delaware A to Z cycles, inc. 2nd Annual Open House Saturday, May 3, 2014 from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Open House and Motorcycle Show For more info: contactus@atozcycles.com Home of the Brave Poker Run Saturday, May 10, 2014 from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM This is a poker run to benefit Home of the Brave which helps homeless veterans. Cost is $20 for initial entry and $10 per additional entry. There will be various prizes for best hand, raffles and other entertainment. Stops will include the American Legion in Dover, DE, Touchdown Restaurant, Green Stinger Restaurant and Seafood City. This event is proudly sponsored by the Dover, Delaware chapter of the Iron Order MC. For more info: iomcde@yahoo.com Delaware / Maryland State HOG Rally 2013 (in Maryland) Thursday, June 19, 2014 - Sunday, June 22, 2014 The 2014 Delaware / Maryland State HOG Rally is being held in Cumberland, MD Go here for more information on the 2014 Delaware / Maryland State HOG Rally www. demdstatehogrally.com 2nd Annual Aetna Hose Hook and Ladder/ Wounded Warrior Project Motorcycle Run Saturday, June 28, 2014 8:30 AM 2nd Annual Run To Benefit the Wounded Warrior Project Scenic ride through Delaware’s coastline with a special stop along the way afterwards food and entertainment will be provided rider pins will be provided 50/50 Door prizes Silent Auction For more info.: bhendricks@aetnahhl.org

Delaware / Maryland State HOG Rally 2013 (in Maryland) Thursday, June 19, 2014 - Sunday, June 22, 2014 The 2014 MD/DE Rally in the mountains offers the perfect getaway! The Cumberland area provides breathtaking scenery through Maryland, West Virginia and Pennsylvania. Explore the National Road, an area rich in history and small town charm. Participate in rides and events and enjoy the evening parties and get together’s with fellow H.O.G. members. Online registration is open and is $30 for National H.O.G. members. Price includes access to all rally rides and events (see webpage for details on these.) Register by March 15 and receive rally pin and patch. Registration ends on May 1. Find out more details and register at www.mddestatehogrally. com and “like” us on Facebook at Maryland/ Delaware HOG Rally 2014. Go here for more information on the 2014 Delaware / Maryland State HOG Rally www. demdstatehogrally.com 44

Maryland IBEW Local Union 26 Poker Run Saturday, May 3rd Registration 9:00am First Bikes Out 10:00am Best and Worst hand Prizes Starts @ Asbestos Workers Union Hall 901 Montgomery Street Laurel, MD 20707 Ends at Looney’s Pub Maple Lawn Email ewmrc@ibewlocal26.org for more details. Center for Children BIIKR Ride 2014 Saturday, May 3rd Registration Starts @ 10:30am KSU @ 11:00am Ride Starts at the Center for Children 6100 Radio Station Road For more information: WWW.BIIKR.ORG OR Center for Children http://center--for-children.org / 301-609-9887 9th Annual “Ride for Life” Cycle & Music Festival Saturday, May 10, 2014 10:00 AM Motorcycle registration begins at 10am, ride departs at 11:30am Live Bands, Vendors, Community Partners, Food, Beverages and more.... Ride fees: $20 for driver and $10 for passenger, Registration begins at 10am KSUP 11:30am For more info please contact: Chuck at 410908-3784 or therideforlife@aol.com visit www. thehopeandpeacefoundation.com 13th Annual British & European Classic Motorcycle Day Sunday, May 18, 2014 from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM Concours, Swap Meet, Door Prizes, Tech Talks, Vintage Trials Demo For All British & European Classic Motorcycles built through 1983 The featured marquee for 2014 is British & European Competition Bikes. Admission $10 • Vendors from $25 (children under 12 free) For more information: classicmotorcycleday.org 2014 Buffalo Thunder Memorial Motorcycle Ride Sunday, May 25, 2014 Join us as we parade thru the streets of MD & DC to the American Civil War Museum For more information: www.buffalosoldiers-md.com Dick Gelfman’s Ride Across Maryland Saturday, May 31, 2014 - Monday, June 2, 2014 14th Anniversary Ride to Fight Breast Cancer We’re going back to Ocean City - the Ride You Know and Love! You can really make a difference in the lives of families touched by breast cancer. While tremendous advances have been made in the prevention, detection and treatment of breast cancer, more remains to be done. One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer during their lives. There is hardly a family anywhere that hasn’t in some way been affected by breast cancer. The Ride Across Maryland combines an enjoyable weekend event with the potential to raise significant sums for the fight against breast cancer. For more information: www.rideacrossmaryland.org MAY 2014

Mountains, Music & Motorcycles State Party Friday, June 6, 2014 - Sunday, June 8, 2014 Live Music, Adult Games, Motorcycle Rodeo, Contests, Wet t-Shirt Contest and more. Restrooms and hot showers. Tent camping, limited RV hookups. Weekend Pass: ABATE Members $30 - NonMembers $40 Friday or Saturday Day Pass: $20 info@abateofmd.org Ride for NF Sunday, June 8, 2014 from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM We start with a FREE (on us) pancake breakfast at Applebee’s Restaurant in Timonium, MD, Limited to the first 300 registered riders/ passengers at 8 am and then–if you choose– continue on a self paced, self guided motorcycle ride through northern central Maryland to raise funds for NF Mid-Atlantic and the Baltimore Ramblers Motorcycle Clubs charities. Meet, Mingle, and Ride! The ride will end at the Ramblers Clubhouse where additional activities, door prizes and more free food will be available. All fees associated with this fundraiser are 100% tax deductible. - See more at: http://www.nfmidatlantic.org/ride Apple’s 11th Annual East Coast Motorcycle Rally Wednesday, August 6, 2014 - Sunday, August 10, 2014 Formerly known as the “East Coast Sturgis Motorcycle Rally” Two Stages, GREAT BANDS five days of Colossal Entertainment You won’t Forget! Featuring The Outlaws & Great Train Robbery Come Early, Stay Late! There will also be a Poker Run, Bike Show, Field Events, Contests and All Kinds of Wild Fun! This is the event that’s taking the country by storm! All the reasons are right. Mountains, Open Country, Good People, Clean Air and the Freedom of the road! The East Coast Motorcycle Rally is the hot spot for motorcyclist to get together for good times, good food, and great entertainment. Come, Camp, Party! NO ONE DAY RATE! Rally Ticket price includes: Camping / Concerts / Tours / motorcycle Demolition Derby and All other Activities HOT SHOWERS AVAILABLE EVERY DAY : FREE RV’S, CAMPERS, BUSES ETC.. Apple mountain main event grounds for the east coast motorcycle rally has no full hook up sites, RV’s, campers etc are welcome on the main event grounds, self contained. www.eastcoastmotorcyclerally.com 6st Annual Ride for Animals Sunday August 10th Benefitting Bella’s Bully Buddies and BARCS. Rain or Shine Registration Starts @ 10:00AM KSU @ 12:00PM Entertainment All Day Long Vendors, Raffles, Contest & More “Colors Welcome” Starting and Ending @ House of Rock, White Marsh, MD Ticket Prices includes Event Souvenir: Rider $20.00 / Passenger $5.00 Purchase Tickets online at: Http://www.showclix.com/event/ RideforAnimals2014 For more info or to be a vendor Contact: Natalie Kasszak @ rideforanimals@ymail.com 443-447-5768 (Leave Message) JC @ djjcrox@yahoo.com 443-447-7044 (Leave Message) THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE MD-DE-DC

Southern Maryland Bike Fest Saturday, Aug. 16th ST Mary’s County Fairgrounds Gates open @ 12pm Close @ 10pm Tickets $10.00 in advance $15.00 at the gate. Live Music, Bike Show, Rodeo Games and More www.somdbikefest.com

West Virginia Rally in the Valley Thursday, May 1, 2014 - Sunday, May 4, 2014 Motorcycle Rally in the Winding Hills of Southern WV the 1st weekend in May each Year. You won’t want to miss this! 1st weekend of May All Kinds of Bikes! All kinds of Food! All Kinds of Vendors! All Kinds of Bands! Bike Show! Miss Rally in the Valley Contest! Bike Games! Bikini Bike Wash! 1000’s of Miles of Curves on the Country Roads around Williamson, and Much More! www.facebook.com/RallyInTheVally Poker Run to Benefit Operation Welcome Home Morgantown Saturday May 10th KSU 10AM Ride starts at Triple-S HD and ends at Tilted Kilt for the after party with Live Bands and more. Special Invite to all Active Duty Soldiers Hosted by Warrior Brotherhood Veterans MC THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE MD-DE-DC

Ride for Hope Saturday, May 10th Registration 10am A poker run to raise money for local children with cancer. Starting at Mullens Family Worship Center 812 Maple St., Mullens, WV $10.00 Per Bike Hosted by Ministers of Fire M/M Blackwater Motorcycle & Music Festival Thursday, May 15, 2014 - Sunday, May 18, 2014 The cities of Thomas and Davis, as well as the Timberline Resort will host events Check the website below for more info and updates www.paulkoontzxc.com Avalon Bikes, Blues & BBQ 2014 Friday, June 6, 2014 - Sunday, June 8, 2014 The first weekend of June begins Avalon Resort’s Summer Concert series. On Friday, June 6, ‘Bikes, Blues & BBQ’ returns to Avalon, ‘Your getaway to the friendliest clothing-optional resort!’ There is a full weekend of food, fun, bikes, music and activities including guided area rides, motorcycle show, food, live blues band and a DJ dance. Avalon is proud to have the event once again be registered with the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP). Part of the admission proceeds will be donated to that organization. The fun begins on Friday, June 6. There will be guided area rides Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Come early, stay late and enjoy all Avalon Resort and this event have to offer. On Saturday the Avalon front lawn is the site of the 14th annual Motorcycle Show sponsored by Montgomery Motors and George Montgomery. There is no extra fee to enter a bike into the show. Trophies will be awarded in several classes plus ‘Best in Show’. So grab your suntan lotion, your bike or just your love of bikes, great food/drink and a lot of fun and join us for a great time! Throughout the day on Saturday there will be a variety of food available featuring mouthwatering BBQ. The outdoor bar will be open serving draft beer along with other favorites. In addition to the great Bikes and BBQ there will also be on the outdoor stage live Blues music provided by the band ‘Bushmaster’ featuring Gary Brown (www.bushmasterblues.com). The night ends with a DJ dance. There is no extra fee to register a bike into the motorcycle show. The price of admission for nonmembers bringing a bike to the event is $20 for 2 people with $5 going to the WWP. Admission for non-members without a bike is $20 per person with $5 going to the WWP. Vendors are welcome to set up a table to swap/ sell bikes, parts, etc. Just call the Avalon office at (304) 947-5600 for the details. Vendors participating in more than one of Avalon’s events receive a discount. For information about the event, lodging, directions or any questions call (304) 947-5600 or email information@avalonresort.com. Visit the Avalon Resort website www. avalon-resort.com for more details. Follow us on twitter at ‘avalon4fun’ or ‘like’ the ‘Avalon Resort’ facebook page. The 6th Annual Dana Hibbs Memorial Ride Saturday, June 7th Registration is from 10am til Noon at The Cotton Patch Cafe in Farmington. “FREE BREAKFAST” Last Bike out at Noon, and Last Bike in at 6pm. Great food and refreshments at the after party to be held at the Farmington Athletic Field. Great Prizes $20.00 Per rider, $10.00 per passenger. Proceeds to benefit WVU Children’s Hospital. Dana was a two time cancer survivor who lost her life in a motorcycle accident in 2008. Her kind heart has been the inspiration for many to participate in this ride and to help provide assistance to this wonderful cause. MAY 2014

Capitol City Biker Bash Thursday, June 12, 2014 - Saturday, June 14, 2014 Third Annual Capitol City Biker Bash is an event for ALL bike riders. Ride Hard And End Your Nights At Our Block Party With Some Cold Beverages, Vendors And Entertainment On The Boulevard Along The Kanawha River. For more information: www.capitolcitybikerbash.com Shinn Cemetery 1st Annual Poker run Saturday, June 14th 11am- 5pm Fundraiser for the Shinn Cemetery Preservation Project $10.00 per Rider 11am-3pm check in at Game Day, Pike St, Shinnston, WV Prizes for Best Hand After Party with The Allied Brothers Band! For more information: Mike Ridenour 304-6159848

upcoming events

America’s 9/11 Ride, the 13th Anniversary Friday August 15th This is the 14th annual fully police escorted commemorative motorcycle ride to all three of the September 11th crash sites. It is in remembrance of those who served, protected, lost their lives and to the volunteers of that tragic day. Our ride takes place in August, respecting each site and the survivors, allowing them to mourn during September. The ride officially starts on Friday August 15th at 7:00am from Highland Harley-Davidson in Somerset, Pa. and rides through the Flight 93 Memorial (but does not stop). Continuing on to Cumberland, Md. (fuel stop for small tank bikes) and regroup at Rocky Gap State Park (bathroom break). Then we travel to the Outlet Malls in Hagerstown, Md. for lunch and fuel. Then the group rides to the Double Tree (host) hotel in Arlington, Va. Saturday morning we gather at the Pentagon for a 7:00am departure on our way to NY stopping at the Maryland House (fuel), then at Barb’s Harley-Davidson (lunch & fuel) and Applebee’s in Linden, NJ (for closing ceremonies) before completing our journey to New York City. Once we arrive at the hotel in NY the ride is officially over. On Sunday morning (for those that want to join us) we ride down (police escorted) to the World Trade Center Memorial. The ride stops about every 70 miles for food and/ or fuel. Pre-registration is required!! Get people to sponsor you, raise $250.00 and we will waive your registration fee, raise more & get extra goodies.Solo riders pay a $150.00 registration fee; passenger pays an additional $40.00. This covers lunch and tolls for Friday and Saturday, (keep in mind we go through New Jersey) The links for our host hotels will be posted on our website. www.americas911ride.org This is a very well organized ride, it is fully police escorted, we have a “pumper team” to assist at the fuel stops, we have “road captains” spaced every 50 bikes to maintain the ride and they are in communication with each other. We have chase vehicles with trailers to pick up bikes that experience difficulties. We have mechanics & spare parts travel with the ride.

2014 WV HOG Rally July16th – 19th Canaan Valley Resort The HOG rally has come back to Canaan Valley. Some of the best riding in the country is in West Virginia. Come and enjoy some great riding, great fun and fellowship. Checkout our web site and get registered. With you, we will make this the best rally ever. www.wvstatehogrally.com Mountainfest Motorcycle Rally Wednesday, July 23, 2014 - Sunday, July 27, 2014 Motorcycle Stunt Shows, Poker Run, Games, Contests, Live Bands, Vendors, Food, and lots more... “MountainFest is the most exciting motorcycle event on the East Coast!” Wild and Wonderful MountainFest is presented by MountainFest, LLC, in cooperation with the Greater Morgantown Convention and Visitors Bureau, and our many generous sponsors. MountainFest, LLC is a 501(c)3 non-profit limited liability corporation. MountainFest, LLC is comprised of area residents from all walks of life who value their community and want to share the magic of West Virginia with bikers everywhere. Proceeds from MountainFest go to non-profit Mylan Park, and the many worthwhile public and private projects underway there. Our long-term goal is to make Wild and Wonderful MountainFest one of the nation’s premier motorcycling events. Plenty of Lodging nearby & Camping is available!See the event website (below) for complete information and schedules. wvmountainfest.com Biker United for Make-A-Wish 11th Annual Benefit Bike Show Sunday, August 17th Six Pence Pub & Eatery 1956 7th Street Parkersburg, WV Registration 1pm - 3pm $10 Per Entry Bike Classes: Big Twin- Touring- Metric CruiserSportster- Classic- Sports Bike- Custom- Trike Judging by Public *** Awards given in all classes *** 50/50 Drawings, Auctions, Food Specials For more information Contact: Mike 304-481-0523, Roger 304-615-6003, Les 304-488-1515, Mike 304-481-9975 45

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THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE MD-DE-DC

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biker friendly directory

DEALERS & SHOPS A to Z Cycles 1472 E. Lebanon Rd. Dover, DE 19901 302-632-2272 www.atozcycles.com Baltimore Harley Davidson 8845 Pulaski Hwy. Baltimore, MD 21237 410-238-2003 www.hdstore.com Battley Harley Davidson /Battley Cycles 7830 Airpark Road Gaithersburg, MD 301-948-4581 www.battley.com Brandywine Auto Parts/ Brandywine Automotive Centers 14000 Crain Hwy Brandywine, MD 20613 301-372-1000 www.brandywineparts.com C&C Cycle 8182 Telegraph Rd Severn, MD 21144 410-305-0924 www.candccycle.com Clinton Cycles 6709 Old Branch Ave. Camp Springs, MD 301-449-5900 www.clintoncycles.com Chesapeake Motor & Power Sports 436C Chinqapin Round Rd Annapolis, MD 21401 443-714-8004 www.cmandps.com Cycle Shack 10124 Liberty Road Randallstown, MD 21133 410-922-6141 www.shackattack.com Defender Cycle Works Fowler Industrial Park Unit 4 Mechanicsville, MD 20659 301-247-9901 301-247-5733 East Coast Sound 101 Skip Jack Rd Suite 5 Prince Frederick, MD 20678 443-968-9635 48

Fredericktown Triumph 5800 Urbana Pike Frederick, MD 21704 301-663-8333 www.fredericktowntriumph.com

Upper Marlboro Ford 5701 Crain Hwy Upper Marlboro, MD 20772 301-627-5600 www.uppermarlboroford.com

Creekside Inn 1225 Security Rd Hagerstown, MD 21742 301-791-6307 www.creeksidedeckbar.com

Glen Burnie Motorsports 20 Holsum Way Glen Burnie, MD 21060 1-855-253-5253 GlenBurnieMototrsports.com

Venom Hydro Graphics 301-904-8826

Captain Billy’s Crab House Popes Creek Rd Newburg, MD 301-932-4323

Heyser Cycle Center 14445 Baltimore Ave Laurel, MD 301-776-6932 www.heysercycle.com

Victory of Southern MD 4630 Crain Hwy. White Plains, MD 20695 www.thekustomshoppe.com 301-932-2383 Walk Enterprises 930 Galesville Rd Galesville, MD 410-867-602

Hollyrock Customs High Performance Diesels 301-690-2130

Whirled of Colors Custom Paint & Air Brush Studios 116 Roesler Road Glen Burnie, MD 21060 410-553-0953

IRONHORSE Repair 2939 York Road Gettysburg, PA. 17325 717-334-1007 M&J Motor Company 1000 S. Queen St. Martinsburg, West Virginia 25401 www.mjtrikes.com 304-262-6200 Newburg Marine www.newburgmarine.com 301-259-4403 newburgmarine@aol.com Pete’s Cycles 344 Bel Air Rd. Bel Air, MD 21014 410-879-3586 For other locations go to www.petescycle.com Prince Frederick Chrysler/Jeep/Dodge 265 Solomons Island Rd. Prince Frederick, MD 20678 www.princefrederickchyrsler.com 866-937-5916 Old Glory Harley Davidson 11800 Laurel Bowie Road Laurel, MD 20708 www.oldgloryhd.com 301-575-0575 Ron Treacy Automotive Certified Master Technician All Makes and Models Mobil at Rte 3 & 450 Bowie, MD 301-262-0003 S.M. City Motorsports 20260 Poplar Ridge Rd. Lexington Park, MD 20653 301-863-6499

Xtreme AutoWorks, LLC 443-622-4157 Free Estimates

Bars & Restaurants Ape Hanger’s Bar & Grill 9100 Crain Hwy. Bel Alton, Maryland 301-753-1650 Barefoot Bernie’s 901 Dual Hwy Hagerstown, MD 21740 www.barefootberniesmd.com 301-797-4424 Buffalo Wild Wings Find a Location Near You www.buffalowildwings.com Bamboo Bernie’s 8359 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd. Pasadena, MD. 21122 www.bambooberniesusa.com 410-647-6100 Cancun Cantina 7501 Old Telegraph Road Hanover, MD. 21076 www.cancuncantina.com 410-761-6188 Cancun Cantina West 901 Dual Highway Hagerstown, Maryland 21740 www.cancuncantinawest.com 301-797-4422

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Gilligan’s Pier 11535 Pope’s Creek Rd. Newburg, Maryland 20664 301-259-4514 Laurel Station Bar & Grille 14933 Baltimore Ave Laurel, MD 20707 (301) 604-3693 Millstream Inn 5310 Dogwood Rd. Baltimore, MD 21207 410-265-8224 www.millstreamgirls.com Pit & Pub 2706 Philadelphia Avenue Ocean City, MD. 21842 www.pitandpub.com 410-289-2020 Reckless Ric’s 1702 Furnace Drive Glen Burnie, MD. 21060 www.recklessrics.com 410-590-2280 Rips Casual Dining 3809 N. Crain Hwy. Bowie, MD Restaurant: 301-805-5901 Deli: 301-805-5903 Wine & Spirit Shoppe 301-805-5902 www.ripscountryvillage.com Seabreeze / Swampy’s 27130 S. Sandgates Rd Mechanicsville, MD 301-373-5217 Sportzone Restaurant and Sports Club 235 Stadium Street Smyrna, DE 19977 302-223-1808 www.sportzonede.com Swamp Circle Saloon 5471 Muddy Creek Rd. Churchton, MD 20733 301-261-5442 Texas Ribs & BBQ Find us at 2 Locations Clinton & La Plata www.texasribsandbbq.com 301-877-0323

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The Tavern 4975 St. Leonard Rd. St Leonard, MD 20685 410-586-2225 www.thetavernofstleonard.com The Scuttlebutt 12320 Neale Sound Dr Cobb Island, MD 20625 (240) 233-3113 The Woodstock Inn 1514 Woodstock RD Woodstock, MD 21163 410-750-3673 www.woodstockinn.net Thursdays Steak & Crab House 4851 Riverside Drive Galesville, Maryland 20765 410-867-7200 www.thursdaysrestaurant.com Toots Bar 23975 Mervell Dean Rd. Hollywood, MD 20636 301-373-2955

Legal Services

Apparel / Retail Photography Battlefield Leathers 1954 B York Rd. Gettysburg, PA 17325 717-334-0657 www.battlefieldleathersinc.com In-Step Leather 7540 Washington Blvd. US1 Shopping Center Elkridge, MD 410-799-1568 J&L Doo Rags Custom / Handmade Doo Rags www.J&LDooRags.com 814-285-1336 Maryland Small Arms Range 9801 Fallard Court Upper Marlboro, MD 20772 301-599-0800 www.msar.com Mary’s Bargain Cycle New Castle Farmers Market 110 N. DuPont Hwy. New Castle, DE 19720 302-322-9323 No Croak Embroidery For all your Custom Patch needs! 410-259-5234 Outback Leather 309 Main Street Laurel, MD. 20707 www.mdoutbackleather.com 301-604-2211

Law offices of Jay Irwin Block 90 Painters Mill Rd. Suite 131 Owings Mills, MD 21117 410-356-6555 800-875-6554 www.stahlandblock.com

Regulators Motorcycle Apparel 10 Chesnut Drive Elkton, MD 23923 888-628-3206 www.regulatorsmotocycleapparel.net

Kelly Beaton, Realtor Old Westminster Realty, Inc 2 Locust Lane, Suite 309 Westminster, MD. 21157 www.ridethebeatonpath.com Office: 410-871-1110 Cell: 443-340-9164 O’Brien Realty Alexandra J. Herbert 29770 Three Notch Road Charlotte Hall, MD 20622 301-844-7400

Renegade Classics 3180 Solomons Island Rd #101, Edgewater, Md 21037 www.renegadeannapolis.com 410-956-RIDE (7433) Renegade Classics Baltimore 9026-C Pulaski Hwy Middle River, MD 21220 410-574-Ride (7433) www.renegadebaltimore.com

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE MD-DE-DC

Comfortably Numb Tattoo Studio 1 W. King Street Littlestown, PA 717-345-6620 www.comfortablynumbstudio.com Ink Wizard Tattoo 2 Locations 7928 Old Branch Ave. Clinton, MD 20735 301-877-1544 & RT.235 and by the Mill Rd. California, MD 20619 301-866-0086 www.inkwizardtattoo.com

Wicked Killa Ink 8740 Cherry Lane Suite 16 Laurel, MD 20707 240-482-6162 www.wickedkillaink.com

Lodging Francis Scott Key Family Resort 12806 Ocean Gateway Ocean City, MD 21842 800-213-0088 www.fskfamily.com Smoke Hole Caverns 8290 N Fork Hwy Cabins, West Virginia 26855 800-828-8478 www.smokehole.com

Southern Maryland Pawn 2224 Crain Hwy Waldorf, MD 20601 240-222-3547 www.smdpawn.com Unique Lingerie & More 3065 Leonardtown Rd. Waldorf, MD 20601 301-645-2228

Tattoo

Orange Tattoo Company 2020-A West Street Annapolis, MD. 21401 www.orangetattoocompany.com 410-224-6088

Dale’s Bail Bonds 11 E Market Street Ste 1 Georgetown, DE 19947 302-856-7214 www.dalesbails.com

Realtor Services

Michael J. Alves US Patriot Photography www.uspatriotphotography.com Mark Petinga Photography markpetinga.com Email: info@markpetinga.com 443-630-4124

Home Improvement

Chuck Biagi’s Carpet Care Plus Expert Carpet and Furniture Cleaning 301-870-0380 D&B Pool Services Fast and Friendly Service Dave Buckler 301-934-1274 Fax # 301-884-2866 Jim’s Mowing & Lawn Service, LLC. You grow it, We mow it! 301-292-6574 301-838-0307 Roofing by George & Home Improvements Inc. 38582 Brett Way Mechanicsville,MD 20659 301-884-7360 Roofingbygeorge.com

Insurance Agents

Boyce Insurance & Financial Services Ins. - Allstate Larry Shifflett 5 Oxford Way Huntingtown, MD 20639 410-535-9862 Office 410-510-1960 Fax Callahan Insurance Agency Beverly Callahan 135 Christiana Road Suite 3 New Castle, DE 19720 302-395-1322 Bagent2000@aol.com Community Insurance Services 308 2nd Street (RT 1N) Laurel, MD 20707 301-490-9600 www.communityinsurancesvcs.com If you would like to be listed in the Biker Friendly Directory, please contact Sales and Marketing or email BFD@ TRMDEL.com for more information. If you’re Club, Foundation, or Association would like to be listed in our Directory, please email BFD@TRMDEL.COM with your name and contact information and someone will be in touch with you.

Chris Davis Plumbing Brooklyn, Maryland 443-255-9223 MAY 2014

biker friendly directory

The Greene Turtle www.thegreeneturtle.com For a location near you

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THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE MD-DE-DC

Your Getaway to the Friendliest Clothing-Optional Resort!

Bikes, Blues & BBQ Saturday, June 6 – 8, 2014 Motorcycle Show • Live Blues Band BBQ & Draft Beer • DJ Dance Guided Area Rides Fri, Sat & Sun Beneﬁts the Wounded Warrior Project • • • • • • • • •

Lodging Tent & RV Camping Indoor & Outdoor Pools Hot Tubs & Sauna Full Service Restaurants & Bars Spa Services Variety of Activities & Events Open Year Round Everyone Welcome!

Call for Information:

304-947-5600 www.avalon-resort.com Located in Paw Paw, West Virginia 2 hours from Washington DC/Baltimore

Affiliated with AANR

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE MD-DE-DC

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NEWS BYTES

NCOM BIKER NEWSBYTES Compiled & Edited by Bill Bish, National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM) U.N. CALLS FOR UNIVERSAL HELMET LAWS WORLDWIDE The United Nations has approved a resolution on road safety that, in part, calls for member nations to enact mandatory helmet laws. Cosponsored by United States’ ambassador Suzanne Powers, the non-binding resolution also calls for laws against distracted driving (such as banning inappropriate cell phone use and texting while driving) and supporting global harmonization of vehicle regulations (which could include anti-tampering measures to prevent customizing and equipment modifications). The U.N. General Assembly voted to approve the “Improving Global Road Safety” resolution on April 10, 2014 to encourage Member States “that have not yet done so to consider enacting comprehensive legislation on key risk factors for road traffic injuries, including…the non-use of helmets...” While countries that belong to the United Nations are not required to comply with such a “non-binding resolution,” many “member states” heed UN recommendations and can set the stage for further restrictions on motorcycles and motorcycling around the world.

FTC SEEKING COMMENT ON ETHANOL LABELING The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is soliciting comments on a proposed rule to require additional labeling at the gas pump for blends of gasoline containing more than 10% ethanol, despite the knowledge that such higher levels of ethanol-laden fuel causes engine and fuel system damage in motorcycles and ATVs and can void manufacturer warranties that extend only to the use of E-10. “In response to the emergence of ethanol blends as a retail fuel and the likely increased availability of such blend,” the FTC proposes an additional label to avoid inadvertent misfueling, but under the rule the label would be rounded to the nearest factor of 10; so fuel containing up to 14% ethanol would be inaccurately labeled “E-10”. Acknowledging that, “In motorcycles and nonroad products, EPA raised engine-failure concerns from overheating,” the FTC solution is another label on the pump, and is seeking public comments now on their rule proposal. Deadline to submit comments is June 2, 2014. WASHINGTON STATE RIDERS ALLOWED TO RUN RED LIGHTS Washington motorcyclists will soon be allowed to run red lights under certain conditions, under Senate Bill 5141 recently signed by Governor Jay Inslee, which will allow riders to proceed through traffic stops controlled by ineffective detection devices. View/Post Comments Traffic vehicle detection devices are scattered throughout the state in both rural and urban areas, giving streets green lights when they need them and reds when they do not. The devices, which come in the form of cameras or underground sensors, register vehicles stopped at intersections and cue traffic lights accordingly. But to motorcyclists, the technology represents the opposite of traffic efficiency, as the devices often fail to register their bikes, creating inconvenient and sometimes dangerous moments at busy intersections. The motorcycle community’s longstanding wish for a solution was granted on March 31 when Gov. Inslee signed Senate Bill 5141, giving motorcyclists the option of running red lights that rely on ineffective vehicle detection devices. When motorcyclists 52

encounter devices that fail to notice their presence, they will be allowed to proceed through the light with “due caution” after one complete cycle. Weight-bearing traffic signal mechanisms were developed in the 1920s, but have mostly been phased out over the years in favor of induction loop signals which are buried in the road and triggered by ferrous metal. Many of the newer detection devices are cameras that control traffic lights based on sight or timing. “There was no safe and legal way to get through until this legislation passed,” Larry Walker, Government Relations Specialist for the Washington Road Riders Association, told the Oregonian newspaper. Fourteen other states have passed similar legislation. Senate Bill 5141 takes effect June 12. MOTORCYCLE CLUBS RALLY IN SUPPORT OF MONGOLS IN PATCH SEIZURE Thousands of bikers from throughout southern California recently rallied in a “show of support” to combat a lawsuit brought by federal authorities seeking to take control of the Mongols M/C patch logo. The U.S. Department of Justice last year filed a lawsuit seeking to seize control of the trademarked logo of the Mongol Nation Motorcycle Club LLC, arguing that the Mongols are a criminal organization and that the mark is used for intimidation. But the Mongols and their attorneys argue that the government is overstepping its bounds with the lawsuit, which they said would infringe on the rights of club members. “They’re trying to destroy the right of men to associate and indicate their association,” said an attorney representing the club. The trial, previously scheduled to begin last month, has been postponed to late September. Federal prosecutors, following an October 2008 operation dubbed “Black Rain” in which dozens of Mongol members ultimately agreed to plead guilty to a host of charges, have labeled the Mongols an “outlaw motorcycle club” and argue that the government therefore has the authority to take control of the Mongols’ logo to prevent violence. The lawsuit breaks new ground in terms of trademark law, and may end up at the Supreme Court. Unlike a business trademark controlled by a single entity, the Mongols’ logo is a “collective membership mark” that is legally owned by one entity, but held in trust for the members; “It’s the votes of club members that ultimately determined who is allowed to wear the club’s patch.” The Mongols have also filed a motion to have federal Judge Otis Wright II removed from the case, alleging bias. Wright, who ruled in favor of the Mongols in a 2008 lawsuit brought by a member whose patch was taken by law enforcement, has made statements indicating he is prejudiced against the motorcycle club, and it was Wright who first suggested to prosecutors back in 2008 that they could go after the Mongols’ trademark. If the Justice Department’s lawsuit should succeed, it would eventually affect more than just the Mongols, the club’s attorney told the Daily News; “They’ll go after all of the motorcycle clubs.” WEIRD NEWS: MOTORCYCLIST’S ERECTION LAWSUIT PETERS OUT IN COURT A California court has dismissed a motorcyclist’s erection lawsuit, in which the rider alleged that a four-hour ride on his 1993 BMW K1100RS motorcycle led to a prolonged and painful erection that lasted 20 months, because the evidence didn’t stand up in court. The motorcyclist filed a product liability lawsuit against BMW

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and the seat maker, claiming a motorcycle design defect in the motorcycle’s “ridge-like” saddle design gave rise to his nearly two-year long bout of priapism. He claimed the painful condition left him “unable to engage in sexual activity, which is causing him substantial emotional and mental anguish,” and he sought damages for lost wages, medical expenses, emotional distress, and general damages, motorcycle blog Visor Down reports. A urologist testified that the plaintiff indeed suffered from priapism, but the court rejected the testimony of a neurologist who claimed the motorcycle’s vibration caused the disorder. That rejection of testimony led to the case’s dismissal for lack of hard evidence. Strangely enough, one man who filed a medical malpractice suit for a faulty penis implant complained that his eight-month erection prevented him from doing one of his normal activities: riding his motorcycle.

mourners at military funerals from Westboro’s notorious signs. In an ironic twist, the debate soon shifted to whether people should protest Phelps’ funeral, but according to Phelps’ daughter Margie Phelps -- an attorney who argued the church’s case before the U.S. Supreme Court -- ”There will be no funeral.” NCOM CONVENTION TEACHES RIGHTS, PREACHES UNITY The largest gathering of motorcycle rights activists in the world will take place in Dallas for this year’s annual NCOM Convention, which will draw thousands of concerned bikers from across the country to discuss legal and legislative topics of concern to all riders. The 29th annual NCOM Convention will be held Mother’s Day weekend, May 8-11, 2014 at the Intercontinental Hotel - Dallas in Addison, Texas. Hosted by the Texas Confederations of Clubs, all motorcyclists are welcome and are encouraged to participate in the many meetings, seminars and group discussions that will focus on legislative efforts and litigation techniques to protect riders’ rights and preserve Freedom of the Road. Nearly three decades ago, on January 27, 1986, leaders of various motorcycle groups from across America met in Las Vegas to discuss a “coming together” and the need for a national united front to protect the biker life-style and riders’ rights, and the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM) was born from that gathering. Founded by personal injury attorney Richard M. Lester and wholly supported by the Aid to Injured Motorcyclists (A.I.M.) nationwide network of motorcycle-riding lawyers, NCOM has grown to over 2,000 member organizations representing hundreds of thousands of concerned motorcycle riders nationwide. The goal and purpose of NCOM is to assist all motorcycle organizations and individual riders with legal, legislative and other motorcycling issues. For more information, or to pre-register for the 2014 NCOM Convention, contact the National Coalition of Motorcyclists at (800) 525-5355 or visit www.ON-A-BIKE.com.

FUNERAL PROTEST LAW UPHELD Fred Phelps, the infamous founder of the Westboro Baptist Church -- the Kansas congregation known for picketing funerals with anti-gay signs -- died of natural causes on March 19 at the age of 84, and his death and reported excommunication from the church dovetails with a recent decision by U.S. District Judge Fernando Gaitan, Jr., bringing closure to a nearly eightyear long legal fight over the group’s funeral protests. The Westboro church gained notoriety for protesting funerals -- especially for troops killed in combat -- to express their belief that God is punishing the U.S. for homosexuality, but Missouri lawmakers responded to a 2005 Westboro protest of a soldier’s funeral by passing a general prohibition against protests and pickets near funerals from one hour before they start until an hour after they end, later adding a specific 300-foot buffer zone. Following a protracted 8-year legal battle involving the Eighth Circuit striking down the general prohibition as an unconstitutional infringement on free speech, which was later reversed and sent back to Gaitan for further proceedings, whereupon Judge Gaitan subsequently upheld the Missouri law. In Phelps’ later years, the protests themselves were largely ignored or led to counter-demonstrations that easily shouted QUOTABLE QUOTE: “As I would not be a slave, so I would down Westboro’s incendiary message. A motorcycle group not be a master. This expresses my idea of democracy.” known as the Patriot Guard Riders arose to shield bereaved ~ Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865) 16th U.S. President THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE MD-DE-DC

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THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE MD-DE-DC

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THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE MD-DE-DC

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THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE MD-DE-DC

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THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE MD-DE-DC

MAY 2014