The Pledge I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
We at thunder roads magazine Would like to say
National Photojournalist Cooper Chilton
Nina “Biskit” Shearon
Ronny Mangrum aka “Rebel Ron”
Production Manager itsbiskit@yahoo.com
Merry Hancock
Layout & Design Graphic Design Artist
Mechele MacDaniel
Ray “Easy Does It” Cole
Regional Director Middle Tennessee 615-496-1493
Ron Baptiste aka Pastor Ron
Regional Director Knoxville, Tennessee (865) 640-5711 easydoesitguy@gmail.com
Do YOU have what it takes to be the next Regional Director of the CHATTANOOGA or Memphis area? Give us a call 615-792-0040
?
FROM THE CORNER OF VETERAN’S DRIVE AND PATRIOT’S WAY
Bob “Bulldog” Ousley DAVE “Ratchet” CHESTER Regional Director Clarksville 931-216-0937
Toni McCoy Shearon & Brian Shearon
1528 Matlock Drive Chapmansboro, TN 37035 Corporate Office: 615-792-0040 Fax: 615-792-7580 e-mail: thunderroads@charter.net
Da’Olde & Mitzi Alaska Correspondents
ON THE COVER
NATIONAL FOUNDERS
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Chaplain’s Corner
BIKE OWNER:TODD REED Stationed at McGhee Tyson Air Force Base in Alcoa, TN. Model: BROOKE SNOW Model Photographer: BILL POTTS bill@pottsphotography.com
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS LISTINGS Contact: Mechele “Me-Mac” MacDaniel, Events Calendar Administrator for TRM 615-496-1493 or, e-mail them to: events@thunderroadstennessee.com What’s on the site goes in the mag! Alright, it’s June 21st, deadline, the mag has to be at the printer no later than 3pm and life is great in the fast lane. This is what we call in the biz as “go-time”. We personally feel extremely blessed to be doing this magazine and every deadline is just an obstacle to be dealt with, overcome, and move forward until the next one pops up. You have those days where you feel like, “wow…..today was almost stress-free”, and then there’s the “others”, and that’s what has been chosen for me today, but that’s o.k., cause’ I’ll just keep on rollin’ along with the strength from the good Lord above. That’s somewhat lyrics from an oldie-goldie song isn’t it? We had one BIG birthday bash for our main man, Super B. (Brian’s Dad) and it was just so much fun having everyone from our community come to pay their respects and hug him and long-time authentic friends. Super B. turned 81 years young and he took the microphone and thanked all for coming and a few words that brought a tear even to this ole’ road-rider. I know it sounds like a sermon, but in all sincerity and respect, when you first see those you love open your arms wide and welcome them in with a big loving hug and when you say goodbye, hug them hard and tell them you love them because you just never know is all…..you just never know. And I for one want to make sure I get my big old hug in. We did take “Thunder Pete” up and covered the phenomenal State H.O.G. Rally hosted this year so efficiently by Smoky Mountain Harley Davidson in Maryville. We will have a full, 4 page article for you in the August issue as time slipped away from the author this month but it’s a definite for next month. It’s worth waiting for as it was one of the best we’ve been to yet. Thank You Aaron Snukals and your phenomenal Team for your hospitality, delicious food and fabulous entertainment. Next month y’all. 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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LIFE is such a miraculous adventure yet I hear so many people bitch every single day and all I can tell you is that life is also way too short NOT to be happy and of joy. So, whatever you personally feel it will take to make you happy……Do It. Just don’t wait for the cheese platter to go with that whine, shake it up baby. Look around and give thanks for eyesight to marvel at this majestic world of beauty, for hearing to hear loving words, for speech to say loving words. Just be GRATEFUL and the Universe will reward you with even more bounty. Truth. We love ya’ bikers. See you in the wind…….. toni & brian
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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.
RUB ME THE RIGHT WAY FIREWORKS COUNTRY RIBS MARINADE: 3/4 Cup Chicken Broth 3/4 Cup Soy Sauce 1/2 Cup Sugar, or Splenda 6 Tbls. Cider Vinegar 6 Tbls. Olive Oil 3 Garlic Cloves, Minced 8-10 Large Country Ribs SEASONING RUB: 1/2 Cup Sugar, or Splenda 1 Tbl. Salt 1 Tbl. Paprika 1/2 tsp. Chili Powder 1/2 tsp. Pepper 1/4 tsp. Garlic Powder Dash of Cayenne Pepper In a large bowl, combine the first six ingredients. Pour 2/3 of the marinade into a 2-gallon resealable plastic bag; add ribs. Seal bag and turn to coat; refrigerate overnight. Cover and refrigerate remaining marinade. Drain and discard marinade from ribs the next day. In a small bowl, combine the rub ingredients; rub all over ribs thoroughly. Coat grill rack with nonstick cooking spray before starting. Grill ribs, covered, over medium heat for 20 minutes. Turn and grill 20 min. longer or until pork is tender, turning and basting occasionally with leftover marinade. Pull from grill and brush with more marinade. These taste so good, there’ll be fireworks of taste explosions in your mouth! WAVE OUR AMERICAN FLAG CHEESECAKE 1 Quart Ripe Strawberries, Divided Up 1-1/2 Cups Boiling Water 1 Pkg. (8 serving size) or 2 Pkgs. (4 serving size) any RED flavor Jello-O Brand Gelatin 1 Cup Cold Water, Plus Ice Cubes 1-1/3 Cups Blueberries, Divided Up 1 Pkg. (12 oz.) Sara Lee Pound Cake; Cut into 10 Slices 2 Pkg. (8 oz. each) Philadelphia Brand Cream Cheese, Softened 1/4 Cup Sugar; or Splenda 1 Tub (8 oz.) Cool Whip Topping, Thawed Slice 1 cup of the strawberries. Halve the remaining 3 cups of strawberries. Stir boiling water into gelatin for at least 2 minutes until completely dissolved. Add enough ice cubes to cold water to measure 2 cups. Add to gelatin; stir until ice is melted. Refrigerate 5 minutes or until slightly thickened (consistency of unbeaten egg whites). Meanwhile, line a 13x9-inch glass Pyrex dish with pound cake slices. Stir your sliced strawberries and one cup 6
of your blueberries into thickened gelatin. Spoon over the pound cake slices. Refrigerate 4 hours or until fir.. Beat the Philly cream cheese and sugar until smooth; stir in whipped topping. Spread entire cream cheese mixtureover firmed Jell-O. Arrange your remaining blueberries in rows, up in the left hand corner, to form a square, to simulate the stars on a flag, then arrange your halved strawberries in rows, all the way across, to simulate the stripes of a flag. This is such a beautiful desert and mixed with the pound cake,Jell-O and cream cheese topping, the flavors are simply superb! CREAMY SMASHED CAULIFLOWER (only 3 grams of carbs per serving, if you happen to be counting. If not, then load the train on mashed potatoes). 5 Cups of Cauliflower Florets 1-1/2 Clove garlic (optional) 1/4 Cup Hellmann’s Mayonnaise 1/4 tsp. Salt Steam cauliflower and garlic for 15 minutes or until tender; drain. Blend or food process califlower, garlic, mayo and salt until creamy smooth. Garnish with butter and pepper. These are absolutely delicious and have the consistency of mashed potatoes. Delicious.....try em’. ALL-AMERICAN SUPPER FOR SIX IN A BAG Coat the inside of a large foil cooking bag with nonstick cooking spray and add 1 pound of fully cooked smoked sausage slices, three to four chopped potatoes, a small cabbage cut into six wedges, 2 Tbls. margarine and 1/2 cup of chicken broth. Seal the bag and cook on the grill over medium heat for 30-40 minutes or until veggies tender. Quick, simple and incredible taste. Enjoy! ICEY-COLD RED, WHITE & BLUE SLUSHY 2 Cups Boiling Water4 Regular Sized Tea Bags 1-1/2 Cups Frozen Strawberries & Blueberries 1 (6 oz.) Can Frozen Lemondade Concentrate 1 Cup Ice Cubes 1/4 Cup Powdered Sugar Pour 2 cups boiling water over tea bags. Cover and steep 5 minutes. Remove tea bags. Chill at least 1 hour. Process chilled tea, frozen berries, and remaining ingredients in a blender until smooth and slushy. Serve immediately with a dollop of whip cream on top and with a spoon and a straw, so you don’t miss a single drop. Yummy. AS YOU ENJOY THIS 4TH OF JULY WITH YOUR FAMILY & FRIENDS, REMEMBER THOSE THAT GAVE ALL FOR OUR FREEDOM. God Bless You All.
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July 2013
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Chaplain’s Corner Pastor Ron Baptiste Founder of Covenant Confirmers Ministries Inc. www.covenantconfirmers.org Founder of Tennessee Biker Medical Clinic Inc. www.tennesseebikermedicalclinic.org TN.COC State Chaplain www.tenncoc. homestead.com Member of NCOM Christian Unity Council www.facebook.com/NCOM.Christian.Unity Pastor Ron’s messages can now be downloaded off the website Leadership Skills can now be downloaded off the website
“Whom He did Foreknow”
There are statements in the bible that have caused me to dig after the deeper things of God, such as; Rom. 8:29 “For whom He did foreknow…” Matt.25:34 “…inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” Eph.1:4 “…He has chosen us in Him before the foundation of the world” So, if God foreknew us, prepared a kingdom for us before the foundation of the world, and chose us before the foundation of the world, then we must have existed before the foundation of the world. Gen. 1:26 “And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness.” John 4:24 “God is a Spirit” So if God made us after His image, His likeness and God is a Spirit, then we are a spirit and spirits never die, the body does. The body is just a house that our spirit lives in. Herein lies the big problem with most Christians living defeated lives today; we all had a Christian walk thinking that our body (flesh) dominates our life. Here is some Revelation Knowledge; “You are not a body trying to be spiritual; you are a spirit learning how to live in a body!” When you let your body (flesh) be in charge, you’ll feed the body and neglect the spirit, then your flesh rules in your life. Your body may have a disease but your spirit doesn’t, your body may be addicted but you spirit isn’t, your body may be broke, busted and disgusted, but your spirit can’t be. You can be healed and delivered from the inside out and not from the outside in, Jesus said; “lay hands on the sick and they shall recover, I give you power over the enemy, you shall do greater things than I.” Many 8
scriptures will come to light with this understanding. When you think you’re a body trying to be spiritual, you’ll try and do good but you give in to the flesh and fail, that’s why you got an “itch you can’t scratch.” As long as you’re whole in your spirit, you can overcome anything in your body. Rom.8:4-6 “…walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit, mind the things of the Spirit. To be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.” 1 Cor.2:10-12 “But God has revealed unto us by His Spirit: for the Spirit searches all things, yea the deep things of God. For what man (flesh) knows the things of a man (flesh), save the spirit of man (flesh) which is in him? Even so the things of God know no man (flesh), but the Spirit of God. Now we have not received the spirit of the world (flesh), but the Spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.” If you are a Christian and struggle with sins of the flesh, if your body is sick or addicted, you have inside of you the power to be healed and delivered, but you have to feed the spiritman more that you do the flesh, which ever one you feed the most will win out in the end. If you’re not a Christian, then I invite you to change your life; “ye must be born again!” your spirit must be renewed. “Until next time, keep your face in the wind and your kickstand up.” To be found faithful, Pastor Ron
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CLUBS Confederation of Motorcycle Clubs of the The Great State of Tennessee www.tenncoc.com
Board Members
State Chairman: Byrdman 1%er, AOA State VP Chairman: Tommy 1%er, AOA State Secretary, Webmaster: Keebler, American Steel MC State Treasurer: Doc, 4 Way In No Way Out MC COC Chaplain: Pastor Ron Baptiste, Covenant Confirmers MC AIM/NCOM Attorney: James J. Ramsey (Pops) Keltics MC
Tennessee Member Listing 2012-2013 4-Way In No Way Out MC American Steel MC A.R.M. Bikers For Christ M/M Black Pistons MC Boozefighters MC Bond Slaves MC Brothers of the Wheel MC Confederates MC Confederate Drifters MC Copperheads MC Covenant Confirmers MC Currahee MC Double Knuckle MC E.B.G.B. MC Fire and Iron MC Grim Reapers MC Highlanders MC His Laboring Few M/M In Country MC Iron Horsemen MC Iron Riders MC Keltics MC Leathernecks MC Leathernecks Confederation MC Mountain Rebels MC New Attitudes MC Nightriders MC Outlaws MC Peacemakers MC Soldiers for Jesus MC Sons of God MC Southern Sons MC Southern Souls MC Sons of Pennyrile MC Southern Journeymen MC Tri-Cities Motorcyclist MC True Sons MC Unforgotten MC US Military Vets MC Velvet Hammer MC Vendetta’s MC Vietnam Vets Legacy Vets MC Widowmakers MC Wind and Fire MC Zombies MC
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Pres. Jay Barnes, Murfreesboro 615-364-1029, www.rollingthundertn1.com
ORGANIZATIONS BACA
ROLLING THUNDER®, INC., CHAPTER 2 TN Pres. Gerri Tramel , Soddy-Daisy 423-843-1061 www.rollingthundertn2.org
www.bacausa.com Volunteer State Chapter-Lebanon, TN (865-951-4224) E Volunteer State Chapter-Vonore, TN (615-715-5039)
ROLLING THUNDER®, INC., CHAPTER 3 TN Pres. Clay Tumlin, Knoxville 865-457-4507 rttn3@comcast.net
BIKERS WHO CARE
www.bikerewhocane.org Bikers Who Care is a organization of motorcycle enthusiasts dedicated to
supporting The Dream Factory of Clarksville, TN by sponsoring Camp Rainbow, a summer camp for seriously ill children
ROLLING THUNDER®, INC., CHAPTER 4 TN Pres. Alan Sipe, Johnson City 423-329-3152, www.rollingthundertn4.com
BLUE KNIGHTS
The BLUE KNIGHTS® is a non-profit fraternal organization consisting of active and retired law enforcement men & women who enjoy riding motorcycles. www.blueknightstnv.bizland.com
ROLLING THUNDER®, INC. Rolling Thunder Chapter 6 Pres. Mike Morel, Martin City 731-431-2411 www.rollingthundertn6.com
CMT/ABATE
SONS OF LIBERTY RIDERS Action Not Words - NOW! Riders organizing to support and defend this country. A political movement of riders. All riders welcome! In addition to welcoming members of any other organization or affiliation. Welcoming non-riders and supporters as well. sonsoflibertyriders.com
CMT/ABATE, Inc. is not a •Biker Club”, but a nonprofit, political organization that was formed to preserve feedom and safety for all Tennesseans who enjoy motorcycling. Our major goals are to modify existing laws that are detrimental to motorcycle safety and enjoyment, and to enact new legislation in support of motorcyclists who ride in Tennessee. If you are concerned about preserving personal freedom and motorcycle safety, we urge you to join. Local charters play a major rote in making CMT/ABATE, Inc. an effective organization by contacting their area legislators to inform them of how the local membership feels about issues affecting motorcyclists. PO BOX 1991 MADISON, TN 37116 615-860-1991 Email: lnfo@cmtabate.com
T.H.R.C.A.
The Tennessee Honda Riders Club www.mthrc.org
Kerbela Motor Corps Donnie Anderson 865-806-2097 www.shrinershq.org
TN VALLEY RIDERS
MOTORCYCLE AWARENESS FOUNDATION OF TENNESSEE
Fayettevilte,TN Web page: tennesseevalleyriders.org Doesn’t matter what you ride or who you are everyone welcome. No dues, Fun Riding Group helping those in need. For more info triplef@cafes.net
WWW.MAFT.US
MAFT is a non-profit 501-C-3 tax-exempt organization. We believe that educating the public to have the proper respect for motorcyclists as well other highway users will reduce accidents and deaths on our highways. We hope to reduce motorcycle accidents caused by inattentive drivers resulting in avoidable right of way collisions. Our Campaign Save A Life program is teaching new drivers in our High Schools awareness and defensive techniques to avoid these accidents. MAFT honors the survivors, the lost and the families of these accident victims at a Vigil each autumn. = Awareness, Respect and Education MAFTINFO@AOL.COM 615-799-8600
Motor Maids, Inc.
A diverse group of women motorcyclists united through a passion for riding while fostering a positive image and promoting safe riding skills. www.motormaids.org
PATRIOT GUARD RIDERS www.PatriotGuard.org
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact PGR State Captain Annette (Dreamcatcher) 615974-3046
ROLLING THUNDER TENNESSEE
www.rollingthundertn1.com Rolling Thunder®, Inc.’s major function is to publicize the POW-MlA issue. To educate the public of the fact that many American prisoners of war were left behind after all past wars. To help correct the past and to protect the future veterans from being left behind should they become prisoners of war-missing in action. We are committed to helping American veterans from all wars! ROLLING THUNDER®, INC., CHAPTER 1 TN
GWRRA
We are the world’s largest single-marque social organization for owners and riders of Honda Gold Wing & Valkyrie motorcycles and, some would say, the world’s largest family. Dedicated to our motto, Friends for Fun, Safety and Knowledge, GWRRA members enjoy the freedom of belonging to a not-for-profit, non-reigious and non-political organization. http://www.gwrra.org
MID SOUTH RIDERS
Meetings held the 2nd Sunday of the month @ Shady Rest Biker Bar,Timbte,TN www.midsouthriders.com
ASSOCIATIONS VFW Post 5266 Morristown, TN Riders Association
Open to all active duty, reservists, guards, and retired military members who are eligible to join the VFW. We meet at 7PM the 3rd Thurs. of each month at the Morristown VFW Post 5266. We are a Veteran driven Association, that supports the surrounding areas Veterans. We also support locally “The Daily Bread and Food On Foot.” Contact Michael Jacobs, President VFW Riders Association @ 423-312-6220 or on FaceBook @ VFW Riders Morristown, TN
Christian Motorcyclists Association
Organized in 1975 for the purpose of reaching the motorcycle world with the gospel of Jesus Christ. The only requirement for becoming a member of CMA is that you be a Christian. Tennessee State Coordinator: Dan Neal, 615-7589773. or dneal23@comcast.net.
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TENNESSEE CHAPTERS
Christian Motorcyclist Association
Lakeway Warriors / Morristown #999 Steelhorse Prophets/ Jackson # 709 Wheels Of Grace / Memphis # 710 The Biker Church Cumberland Cruisers For Christ/ Covenant Confirmers Ministries Inc. Crossville # 802 www.covenantconfirmers.org Rescued Riders / Dayton # 856 Holy Spirit Reigns / McMinnville # 887 Three Degrees Masonic Motorcycle Club Tennessee River Disciples Contact: Grang Chapter Secretary @ e-mail: ironmason@hotmail. com or Past President: Free Bird @ freebird3d@yahoo.com / New Johnsonville # 896 Reelfoot Light Riders/ Union City # 897 Southern Cruisers Ransomed Riders / Covington # 898 www.southerncruisers.net Forming chapters / Murfreesboro, #435 Beech River #282 Highland Rim Pulaski, Dyrsburg #273 Bristol #000 Memphis #034 Chatanooga #006 Middle Revelators Motorcycle Ministries #058 Clarksville #059 Montgomery Bell Bristol TN Meeting and ride 1st Sat each month @ Burger king on west state st #410 Copperhill #077 Northeast @ 830 am #323 Covington #483 Northwest more info frank@ 423-963-5850 #285 Crossroads #153 Shiloh chaplin john @423-323-8812 #320 Cumberland Gap #246 South Central #423 Eagle Bluff ww.revelatorsmm.com #001 Tennessee Valley #211 Golden Circle #130 Upper Cumberland #250 Greenville #193 West Tennessee Road Riders for Jesus Ministries Road Riders For Jesus is an independent, Christian faith based, motorcycle Wheels Of Faith Ministry ministry that began in 1999 near St. Louis, MO. We now have over 4,000 A nondenominational organization with the purpose and goal of members world-wide. To find a local chapter, call Mike at 615-828-6446 or go spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ through word & work, and to the national website at www.roadridersforjesus.org. Also check us out on to provide a Christian atmosphere where we gather and ride our Facebook!
Inspiration Riders/ Knoxville #64 Rays Of The Son/ Kingsport # 199 Choo-Choo Wheels OF Worship/ Chattanooga #204 Christian Motorcyclist Association Lakeway Warriors / Morristown #999 Lions of Judah/ Nashville #405 Knights For Christ/ Columbia #448 Prayerborne Eagles/ Clarksville # 467 Blood Bought Bikers/ Cookeville # 614 Gatekeepers/ Cleveland # 615 Outriders For Christ / Tullahoma # 616
motorcycles. www.wheelsoffaith.com
Confederate Sons Association
W.O.W.
Cookeville, Tennessee see our web site for more info www.ConfederateSonsAssociation.com or e-mail larrybarnes@ConfederateSonsAssociation.com
Cornerstone Riders #940 Murfreesboro, TN Meets 3rd Thurs 7pm Shoney’s on Broad Street 615-631-6295 Dwight Bond www.cmausa.org
Mercy Hands Street Ministries
P.O. Box 1515 Dickson, TN 37056 931-670-2351
Hog Heaven Ministries Harley Riders for Jesus
Vic Richardson 931-729-1091 hogheavennmislries@yahoo.com
GOLD WING TOURING ASSN. CHAPTER HARPETH VALLEY RIDERS Contact Damy & Joyce Emter, Chapter Directors Phone: 615-244-1456 e: DannyEmter@msn.com
American Legion Riders
(Post 95, Eastridge,TN) Open to American Legion Members and
Associates. We participate in parades, ceremonies, and promote motorcycle safety. We also provide a social atmosphere for Legion members who share the same interests. Join us for Fun, friendship and interesting motorcycle rides. ezriderintn@aol.com
Black Sheep
Black Sheep Harley-Davidsons for Christ is more than just a motorcycle club. It’s a motorcycle ministry of men and women that ride for Jesus: helping and serving H.O.G. members and chapters across the country. For more information contact Jeff Pierce 615.653.5065 or visit our web site: wwwblacksheephdfc.org
Women on Wheels Cool Lady Cruisers Chattanooga, TN joandcharlie@bellsouth.net
HOG CHAPTERS Mule Town Chapter The Dragon Chapter, Maryville 931--540-0099 865-977-1669 www.muletownrider.com Eastern Tennessee Chapter Nashville Music City 865-457-7893 Chapter 615-242-6067 Ghost River Chapter Collierville, TN Northwestern ghostriverhog.com 731-885-1792 Golden Circle Jackson Chapter Thunder Creek 731-627-2288 Chattanooga Chapter www.qchoq.com 423-892-4888 Middle Tennessee Tri City Chapter 615-771-7775 423-283-0422 Murfreesboro Chapter Tuckessee Clarksville 615-849-8025 615-242-6067 Chapter (931)648-1607 The Dragon Chapter, Maryville 865-977-1669 Twin Lakes Morristown Chapter Memphis Chapter 423-586-5343 webguru@memphishog.com
Road Riders for Jesus Motorcycle Ministries
Upper Cumberland Chapter 931-526-3139
Chattanooga, TN. Meeting and ride 3rd Sat each month @ City Cafe on corner Lee Hwy and Bonny Oaks @ 11:00 AM more info Johnny @ 423 605 5026 ,www.roadridersforjesus.org
July 2013
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12th Annual Tennessee
Biker Medical Clinic Benefit By: Rebel Ron On June 1st I joined Pastor Ron Baptiste on the Covenant Confirmers Ministries’ 12th Annual Motorcycle Rally to raise much needed funds for the TN Biker Medical Clinic in Springfield, TN. Have long wanted to attend this event for all the good work they provide bikers but my duties at S & G Custom Cycles usually fills most of my Saturdays. (I called in sick on this day but don’t tell my boss.) I always love riding up in that part of Tennessee anyway since there are still so many operating family farms lining the scenic back roads. Let me tell you a about Pastor Ron’s little spot of heaven North of Nashville. They provide a free medical clinic for all bikers & their families such as medical doctors, chiropractors, dentist, eye care, physical therapist, and massage therapist. The Clinic provides these service without any government grants & without filing any insurance forms. The main sponsors of this free clinic are all the motorcycle clubs of the Tennessee Confederation of Clubs along the doctors, nurses and staff who volunteer their time & services. Pastor Ron & crew also have the coolest chapel you
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have seen. Think about it, when was the last time you saw a church podium that had handlebars, stretched springer frontend, a headlight, & a gas tank on it? Not to mention the cool Captain America looking bike on the stage. This is definitely a church one should consider if you ever feel out of place where ever you might worship. Check them out sometime because they do a lot of good for the less fortunate or hard luck two wheelers that share the lifestyle with us. Go online to learn more athttp:// www.covenantconfirmers.org/. Many riders chose to leave their skid lids off for the ride into the great state of “helmet free” Kentucky for the “Cash Run” despite the threat of rain. The inclement weather may have caused many riders to not show up for the ride & we did get rather soaked once we crossed into the Bluegrass State, but I heard no complaints only laughter. The large pack of riders rode in the rain about 10 miles before our planed stop in Guthrie then we headed back South to the Volunteer state & sunshine. We were mostly dry when we retuned to Springfield. The winner of the Cash Run was Eddy Bonner from the Wheels of Faith M/M in Alabama who won with a full house. He promptly donated his $600.00 winnings back to the Clinic.
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There were plenty of activities for the entire biker family once we were back at Clinic. First we enjoyed a hot lunch cooked on site & looking at the many items in the silent auction along with seeing what the numerous vendors had to offer. There was plenty to do with children’s games, a dunking booth, and even a children’s bike rodeo with great prizes. There was a ½ price sale of merchandise donated to the Rally from local merchants that offered some great deals. (More reasons to be sure to attend next year.) It was a fun day & I was glad I missed work to ride with these folks. It was a great ride despite the rain, seeing old friends, making new ones, helping raise funds for the Clinic but one of my highlights was seeing one of my Mechanized Cavalry brothers, Freebird, in the dunking booth. Y’all join us next year, you’ll be glad you did! The TN Biker Medical Clinic wanted to thank Brian & Toni of Thunder Roads Magazine for all their support for the TN Biker Medical Clinic over the past several years. And we’d all like to thank you Pastor Ron for what you do. See ya next year!
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Smoky Mountain Thunder Memorial Ride XIII
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owntown Sevierville thundered with hundreds of motorcycles who came to pay tribute to our fallen military. The ceremony kicked off with Kelley Stout singing our National Anthem accompanied by “Mr. Lincoln” from the American Eagle Foundation with handler Mike Acuff. Kelley was followed by T.C. Barnett, Jessie Barnett and Kaleb James Wright singing America the Beautiful. Guest speaker this year was Retired Lt. Col. Don Campbell. Lt. Col Don Campbell was a pilot during the Vietnam War and flew 118 combat missions in an F-100.
Wreath placement was done on behalf of law enforcement and firefighters, protecting the front lines of our country, Officers T.C.
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Faulconer and Kevin Stone. Following the wreath was Gold Star Mothers President Brenda Shelton and Sherrie Battle McGhee. During this time Taps was played by Smitty Giles. Kickstands went up at 11:00 for a 65 mile ride to Grainger County’s Veteran’s Overlook. Sevierville City Police Dept. and Sevier County Sheriff Dept., escorted over 1200 motorcycles on a safe ride threw 5 counties assisted by those counties Sheriff and Police Departments. On the way through Morristown, Preston Mayes, with the Fire Dept. arranged for a Morristown Fire Dept. ladder truck to sit in the median with the ladder extended and a huge American Flag extended from the end for all the riders to ride under. It gave you goose bumps to see it, then ride under our flag.
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The closing ceremony on top of the mountain consisted of placing of the wreath while Taps was played by Smitty Giles. Kelley Stout sang “Till the Last Shot’s Fired”. During the pause in the song, Honor Guard American Legion Post 202, Gatlinburg, did a 21 gun salute, then the song finished. Thanks to all who participated and helped make Memorial Weekend for remembering, to pay Tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for our Freedom. Stay tuned for next year, Memorial “Sunday” 2014, the theme is Army. For more information go to www.smokymountainthunder.net or call 865-453-6532.
July 2013
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IT’S NEVER TOO LATE…
This is a heart-warming story that will let you know that anything is possible., all it takes is a hand extended. In 1951 there were (3) guys who joined the United States Air Force. They were stationed at Ardmore Air Force Base in Oklahoma and became good friends. They also served 6 months in France TDY. They were with the 773rd Troop Carriers. In 1957 when their tour was up, they all went back to their home states. And, as with war-time buddies, you never forget them and all the experiences; good and bad, that war brings. There were a few calls over the years, but that was about it. 1957 was the last time they saw each other, when they said their goodbyes; shook hands and gave pats on the back. Their names are M.B. Shearon aka “Super B.”, Bobby Griggs, and Delmar Elders Super B. decided he would like to have a reunion, so with a little help, he reached out to Bobby, who now lives in Mayflower, AR and Delmar, who now resides in Farmington, MO. They decided the perfect place to reunite would be Tunica, MS this past May 21st. When they all met up at the check-in desk, it was if all that time apart just melted away and they were just 3 good buddies coming together for a good time. They were all very happy to see one another and spent the next 2-1/2 days catching up on each other’s life. Come to find out Delmar decided to stay on with the service for another (13) years. They all had a great time, won a lot of money and of course, as in Tunica, gave it back to them, had plenty of good food, loud laughter and exceptional company. They promised to stay in touch better than they had been. It’s never too late to reunite with those that played a very integral part of your life and these (3) buddies sure proved that fact. It’s never too late. 18
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July 2013
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Rolling Thunder: Not just a Ride, it’s a Mission!
By Mike “Bighead” Abbott I’m 41, and I live thirty minutes form our nation’s capital, and except for a few trips in elementary and middle school, I’ve really never been to Washington, DC. Not sure why, I guess I took for granted how close it is, and took the approach “there’s always next year.” It’s not that I was afraid of the perceived danger of “The District” or that “the roads are confusing and there’s no place to park.” I think it’s because I just never stopped long enough to grasp the importance of seeing what millions of people from all over the world come to D.C. to see. It’s the Art, the technology, the culture, our successes and failures, and our history. Good or bad, we put Our America out there, we memorialize it in granite, marble and concrete, and we invite the world to come tour it, see it, sit on it, and study it. Over the past two years, I’ve had the privilege of being a part of a foundation that honors our nation’s heroes; Firefighters, Police officers and all branches of the military; The Hogs and Heroes Foundation. Through this foundation I’ve had the honor 20
of escorting many of our heroes to their final resting place in Arlington National Cemetery or from Dover Air Force Base to various other cemeteries. Over the years I’ve chosen to ride with one group or another for a variety of reasons. And I’ve participated in a number of rides, traditions and/or ceremonies. I have found those events that involve supporting children or the military always get the most participation and emotion from fellow bikers. So, it’s no surprise when I heard there was this event called Rolling Thunder, held every Memorial weekend, that involved thousands of bikers. I was told it would change me, or it would affect me, and it was an experience that was unexplainable. I’ve heard about it for several years, but I’ve never had the opportunity to be involved. So, when we started this magazine, I wanted to make damn sure, Rolling Thunder was something we not only covered, but participated in too! Rolling Thunder is a demonstration held every year, since 1987, on Memorial weekend. The sole purpose is to bring awareness to this nation, to make sure that we never forget our service members who are prisoners of war or are still missing in action. The department of Defense Prisoner of War
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and Missing Personnel Office reports there are more than 83,000 Americans missing from World War II, the Korean War, the Cold War, the Vietnam War and the 1991 Gulf War. (Think about that next time you watch the Dallas Cowboys play, that’s EVERYBODY in the sold out Stadium including the teams and everybody working, MISSING or a PRISONER of WAR.) When the Rolling Thunder Run starts, the National Executive Director of Rolling Thunder Inc. former US Army Sgt. Artie Muller leads the way. He served in Vietnam and never forgets that he made it home, but a lot of guys didn’t. When asked why this demonstration is so important, his reply was simple “I want everybody that participates, on a bike or along the route, to know your loved ones will never be forgotten.” He went on to say, “not only do we need to bring home our MIA/POW’s but we need to take care of the men and women that we are bringing home.” He’s referring to the number of disability claims on backlog, it’s over 900,000 at this point, and the length of time it takes our veterans to start seeing their benefits. Rolling Thunder is more than just a ride to The Wall, the July 2013
whole weekend is dedicated to remembering and supporting our military. On Friday, there is a candlelight vigil at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. A moving ceremony led by the light of Freedom which escorts the Gold Star and Blue Star Families. On Saturday through Monday, 22nd street, across from the Vietnam Veterans Memorial is Thunder Alley. Here, you can get all the memorial shirts, patches, leather, and engravings to remember the event or someone specific. Also on Saturday and Sunday, at the stage in front of the Reflecting pool facing the Lincoln Memorial, there are Speakers and a Musical tribute. On Sunday, at 6:00 am, there is a Reveille call for all riders to assemble in the North and South Parking lots of the Pentagon. And at noon, Bikes start leaving the parking lot, to make their way around the Mall, and park at the West Potomac Park. The ride to the wall started in 1987, when 2,500 riders participated. Last year, more than 1.3 million people attended the 25th Anniversary of Rolling Thunder, with over 500,000 bikes from all over the country, making it the world’s largest single day motorcycle event. This year, they expect the same.
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I knew where we were going, it was on my mind the whole week. What did I expect to see? Was it going to affect me? How was I going to feel afterwards? How would I react to what I saw? I had no idea. I’ve been on many rides before, but never this big, or one that carried the emotion of so many. Then you hear someone yell “5 Minutes!” and then another behind you, “5 Minutes!” as we pass the word down the road. Everybody hurries to their bike to get ready and pull their helmet strap tight. You look around, make sure you know who’s around you, and that you’re ready to go when they are. And you hear it, I’ve often wondered what people meant when they said “it sounded like a freight train” just before a tornado hit, I don’t wonder now. It started down the street, and as each bike started and it got closer and closer, you could literally feel the rumble in the ground and the echo off the buildings around you just before you started your bike. The sound was deafening! The ride is a simple one, you leave the parking lot and head out Washington Blvd, to cross the Arlington Memorial Bridge. As you come over the Bridge, and the pristine white structure of the Lincoln Memorial comes into view, and the crowd on the side begins to get thicker, this has become a parade. A parade of Bikers, and any other time, parents would pull their kids closer, and people would look at you with annoyance at the noise from your exhaust. But this time was different, they leaned out to get a good picture, kids waved and smiled, and they looked at us with respect and admiration. The next turn, brings you to 23rd street, this is the shortest leg of the ride, but one of the most amazing sights. At the end of this block, and just before you turn right onto Constitutional Avenue, is SSgt Tim Chambers. For those of you who don’t this Marine, do yourself a favor, go to YouTube.com and look him up. For several years, SSgt Tim Chambers would attended Rolling Thunder and walk around in his dress uniform thanking veterans and their families. He would listen to their stories and shake their hands, but he never felt like he was doing enough. In 2002, he stepped into the road, and gave a salute to the riders. And then held that salute, until the last bike passed. It was an amazing gesture and a moving and powerful symbol of patriotism. The following year, he held the salute from the first bike to the last, over 3 ½ hours. Since then, SSgt Tim Chambers has been on this corner saluting the bikers from start to finish. As the bikers would pass, some would goose the gas and rev the engine, some would salute, or stop and salute, but almost all of them would yell, “Thanks Tim!” as they pass. Once you pass SSgt Tim Chambers, this was no longer a ride or a parade, this was a mission. The rest of the ride took you down Constitution and around the Mall, down Independence Avenue, and to your final stop at West Potomac Park. From there, you walked over to the Vietnam Memorial to pay your respects. This walk took a while, with that many bikers walking in the same direction, it looked like we were going to invade Washington. With this being my first time to the Wall, I chose to walk with the Nam Knights MC. They graciously allowed me to take part and witness their annual tradition of gathering next to The Wall and honoring Veterans, past, present and future. Part of the NAM Knights ceremony includes the singing of the National Anthem and the playing of TAPS. I have never had the pleasure of serving in the Military or Reserves; Instead I took the responsibility of becoming a father to my daughter, a decision I’ve never regretted for 23 years. But, I do understand the sense of Brotherhood and camaraderie that comes with being in the military. I get that with my fellow bikers. Since 1991, when I had Family and Friends in the military during the first Gulf War, 22
I cannot get through the National Anthem and the playing of TAPS with a dry eye. So here I am, surrounded by thousands of brothers, next to the Vietnam Veteran Memorial, hearing the sound of TAPS being played in the distance and getting ready to descend into the most powerful memorial in Washington, DC. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial, “The Wall,” is very different from any other monument at the Mall. First, it’s not made of white marble and it lacks the heroic and patriotic symbols as the other structures around the mall. And second, you descend down into the center of the V shape and continue out the other side. One would never know by the simple design, that it holds some of the most powerful images and emotions in its polished black granite face. As I descended down the path to the East side of the Wall, I first noticed the people walking towards me. They were stone faced, walking at a slow pace, as if they’d just walked past an open casket at a viewing, trying to hold back emotions they didn’t know they had or that they wanted to show. As I continued, I saw the first piece of black granite, and next to it laid a bouquet of flowers, a flag, and some paper protected by plastic, the first name I read was Jessie C. Alba. I don’t know this person, or anything about him, except he was a soldier and he died. As I continued down the path, the pace became slower and slower, and I tried to read more and more of the names on this wall, this wall that kept looking at me. And as the Wall was getting taller, and the list of names was getting longer on each
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DO YOU KNOW SOMEONE ON THE WALL?
Let me make a FREE patch for you to show their location on The Wall, which includes their Panel # & Line #. Just send an e-mail to: “Woody” at: patchattack7@gmail.com
panel, the items left at the bottom were becoming deeper and deeper. There were more flowers, and flags, and more papers in sheet protectors, but now I was seeing drawings, some very detailed and elaborate portraits in color and black and white, and some in crayon on construction paper. There were bracelets and teddy bears, notes and poems, and standing wreaths of flowers. I saw children kneeling next to parents as they tried to explain whose name it was on the wall, I saw couples stop and hold each other as they stared at one name, and I saw men putting their arms around each other and patting the backs of others as if to say “we’re with you brother” as they walked by. Along the wall, there are stands with little pieces of paper and pencils for you to use if you want to get an etching of a name, and if you can’t find a name you are looking for, the staff there is incredibly helpful. One of the most memorable things I saw, was a brother trying to get an etching of name on the wall, but the name was too high and he couldn’t reach it. Normally, one of the staff would come over with a ladder and climb up and do the etching and pass it down to you. But this brother wanted to do it himself. So without asking, three of his brothers saw what was going on and walked over, picked him up and put him on their shoulder, so he could reach the name he wanted and do the etching himself. Brotherhood, that’s what it’s all about!! When he was done, they let him down, knowing they didn’t need to hear it, he hugged and thanked each one of them. All
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you heard was, “no problem brother, that’s what we’re here for!” When I finally reached the center of the V and started my ascent, I was still mesmerized by this black granite mirror that kept me in its stare the entire time I walked by. I finally stopped walking and just stopped and stood there. I think the realization of over 58,000 names were no longer just names on a wall, but a headstone. My stare never wandered as I stopped seeing the names, I began to see through the names into the mirror and saw myself for the first time in the granite. It was an incredibly eerie feeling, like I was now in the Wall looking out though the
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Rolling Thunder Message Points (Taken from their website)
What would YOU do to fix the following? Tell your congressman! • Live Prisoners of War – our most important issue: Are the men who were left behind alive after all past wars? Research teams still search for bones but nothing is being done to resolve what happened to those left behind alive! Sgt. Bowe R. Bergdahl captured June 30, 2009 is still missing. What are we doing to get him home? • Retired Military: Our military was promised healthcare when they retired. Now they are told they have to pay for it. Why don’t Congress and the Senate pay for their healthcare benefits? Prescriptions: Are to go from $9 to $36 per prescription under Obamacare. Why? Many Veterans can’t afford the cost of their medication now. • Veterans Administration: Why do we still have over 900,000 disability claims on backlog? This number has been the same for way too many years. The backlog of claims is a contributing factor to the increased suicide rate among our returning servicemen and women. • POW/MIA Flag at the White House: Why is the POW/MIA flag not flying 365 days a year over the White House as it has in previous administrations??? granite. And when I reached out to place my hand on the Wall, I felt as if the Wall was pushing back. I don’t know how else to explain this to you, other than, go see for yourself. Across from the Lincoln Memorial there was a stage set-up where speakers like Congressman Reid Ribble, Congressman Jon Ruyan, Lynn O’Shea, and Nikki Mendicino spoke. And there was some performers like Rockie Lynne, Gordon Painter, the Loch Rannoch Pipes and Drums, and JD Micals. All of them had great messages, but I think the most powerful message was the when they carried in Gerald McCullar portraying a Vietnamese prisoner of war in a tiger cage. If that image didn’t make you want to get up and demand we find and bring home our POW/ MIA men and women, I don’t know what will. Rolling Thunder is held every Memorial weekend, if you haven’t been a part of it, take the time to make arrangements for next year. I’ll guarantee once you take part in it, it will be a part of you. Please go to www.rollingthunder1.com and see what they are doing to help our Military.
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• Military Budget Cuts: Why is this administration giving away BILLIONS of dollars to foreign countries and cutting the budget to our Military and Disabled Veterans? Balancing the budget by cutting funds to our troops and Veterans is NOT acceptable!! A Special Thanks to the following: Nancy Regg from Rolling Thunder Inc. Rolling Thunder Inc. Nam Knights MC Lee Stalsworth Photography Photo Credit: Lee Stalsworth Mike “Bighead” Abbott
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by Bob “Bulldog” Ousley Dear Fellow Veterans and Patriots of Tennessee: My Father and step mother have been living on a small farm since the early 1970’s. Those of you who have been around a place with some acreage know how much work that can be. My father is a WWII veteran in his late 80’s and both he and my step mother have their health issues. I learned recently they have decided to leave the farm and go to a retirement home. It’s a move that’s overdue but a very tough thing to go through after all those years of independent living in one place. Dad has always downplayed his role in World War Two. He turned 18 about the time the tide of the war turned and arrived in the Philippines shortly before the Japanese surrendered. I guess since he wasn’t on the front line for the big battles in the Pacific he felt like he hadn’t really earned his veteran status. All these years he has never checked in with the veterans administration to see what might be available to him. He’s always been of the mindset that you take care of yourself and pay your own way. Now he’s not in a position to do that. My brother was selected to manage this transition, and being a veteran himself, looked into what was available to help. He discovered there is a monthly amount for veterans in certain situations that can help with the costs of a retirement home. This assistance from the Veterans Administration is going to make everything work out and my father and step mother will be able to live the rest of their days without fear of ending up on the street or running out of resources. I’m telling you this story in case you have a veteran in your family that is facing similar challenges. Those who go to war and defend our freedom, no matter what role they played, have benefits through the
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Veterans Administration. They earned those benefits and many did not survive to collect them. If you are related to a stubborn old mule like my dad, tie him up, put him in a wheel barrow and push him through the front door of the VA. Help him get with a counselor who can explain the benefits and see if there isn’t something that can make a tough life transition a little less stressful. America has done much to insure honor and respect for our veterans in their twilight. However, veterans have to be curious enough to find out what’s available. Thank you America for remembering those who have risked it all to keep us free! Some are still risking it all and some are in danger of losing it all. June 22, 2013 is Bring Bowe Home Day in Hailey, Idaho. They are expecting a lot of veterans and bikers to come make some noise to insure the government does not leave Bowe Bergdahl behind in captivity when our troops are pulled out of Afghanistan later this year. Bowe was captured June 30, 2009 and we know he is still alive in captivity. We need to bring Bowe home. If you can make it to Hailey it’s a great opportunity to ride through the Dakotas and Wyoming before the big Sturgis rush. Sorry but you’ll miss no panties Wednesday in Hulett, Wyoming cause feeling a cool breeze is reserved for the week of Sturgis. The offset is beautiful country, mountains and rivers with grand scenic vistas punctuated by a hail stone or two the size of softballs but that’s what great biking memories are made of. When was the last time you looked at the night sky and saw stars all the way down to the horizon? That happens a lot out west but if you can’t make it there, it’s time to ride and Tennessee has some great riding. Life is at its best with your hands on handlebars. See you on the road. Keep the faith. Thank a vet for the freedoms we still enjoy and support politicians who will bring back the ones we’ve lost. Fly the flag of the people and be proud you’re an American. Hug the families of those still missing because their quest for closure has not ended. Live the good life and ride for those can’t. — Bulldog
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And my very Special Guest Doug Gray From The
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Marshall Tucker Band
t is my pleasure to invite Doug to come up here on the porch and rock a little while with me. Like most of you I have been listening to the MTB for back as I can remember. I blame them for a lot of the things I can’t remember from the early 70’s. I know some of you are smiling because you know exactly what I’m talking about. I grew up loving any Southern rock music. For you young folks it’s bands like The Allman Brothers, Charlie Daniels, MTB, Wet Willie , Elvin Bishop, .38 Special, Molly Hatchet, and of course Lynryd Skynrd. Now being an old Hillbilly like I am I don’t get a lot of time to sip and rock with some of the greats of rock and roll. I caught up with MTB at Old Glory Harley Davidson’s Red ,White and Blues event at Laurel Race Track. Today is truly a treat and an honor to talk with Doug. So grab a mason jar, cigar and let’s talk to one of the legends of southern rock music. HB-How did you get started and how have you kept it going for all these years especially after losing Toy and Tommy Caldwell the other founders of MTB? DG-When we started doing this Toy, Tommy and I was all friends. Tommy was younger but we all grew up together in a little cotton mill town in the south. We had no idea what we going to do in life. We just didn’t know. Uncle Sam helped Toy and I figure out the immediate future. He sent us to Vietnam. When we got back we thought that we should work during the day and play at night. Toy’s Dad was a master plumber so he went to work with him. I went to work for a bank. I realized pretty quickly that I didn’t know anything about banking. The day we all decided to play music full time we said Hell let’s give it a shot. It wasn’t too long after that we were signed by Capricorn records. HB- A lots of bands take a long time to reach the top. It seems like it happened overnight with you. DG-We went out opening for the Allman Brothers Band for the first year. Next thing you know we were big. It was overwhelming. We didn’t expect it .We were just playing and hanging out together. We got more excited about it all the time. We were traveling in an old Dodge van across the country opening for Joe Walsh and The Eagles and we started wondering what our next step was. So we decided the next step would be to do it as long as we could. Being from where we came from and I lived on mill hill like everyone else did we didn’t know what that would be like. My Daddy took me to the mill when I was 10 because he wanted to show me where he lived. My Daddy worked there 40 some years and made a good living there. I knew that God gives us gifts and expects us to use them. The mill was out and music was for me.
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HB- You mentioned your Daddy any other family influences? DG- My Momma use to always say come on Doug sing them a song. Everywhere we went I had to sing. She helped me realize I was blessed with this gift and needed to use it. We were all blessed the whole way and we continue to be blessed. Our fans are amazing. We are in the Wash., D. C. on Memorial Day weekend. We have all these people waiting for us when they could be doing hundreds of things around here. Our fans have been loyal for all these 40 some years. I like to think of our concerts now as tributes. Mainly to our loyal fans, but to all the past members of the band as well. I know why we started this band. It was because we wanted to see what we could do and wanted to have some fun. I still want to see what we can do and want to have some fun that’s why none of our concerts are the same. HB- do you still feel the Caldwell brothers with you? DG- All the time. They always will be with me. Tommy rolled over in that land cruiser and that thing was decked out with safety features. I still miss Ronnie Van Zandt that was a good friend of mine. I guess I now believe when it’s your time it’s your time to go. Life is short we need to enjoy it. HB- How about the U.S. Navy Seals Foundation that this concert is benefiting? DG- Well I already said I served in Vietnam. We went to Iraq to entertain the troops. They always will have a special place in my heart. Too many times we all forget that right now there are first responders and military men and women protecting us now. I thank up above for them. I watched MTB perform and kept looking at the crowd. There was nothing but smiles everywhere. I know we are all a little older and it seems like life is flying by. It’s really good when I get a chance to take a time out and enjoy a show like this. If you get a chance this summer to catch a MTB show Do It. The current band members are B. B. Borden -drums, Pat Elwood -Bass, Marcus James Henderson -keyboards flute and saxophone, Chris Hicks -guitar, Rick Willis -Guitar and Doug Gray -Vocals .They will be Apple’s East Coast Rally in August. Check your copy of Thunder Roads magazine for more info. I usually have the last word here on my porch. This time Doug brought shine. I love it when the guests start taking care of me. After all I deserve it. Til next time. Remember, Throw the lid away and always share it with your friends. Can’t you see oh Can’t you see what that shine been doing to me. Oops sorry but I love that damn song! – Hillbilly
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We are on the road frequently and that means eating out frequently. Over the years we found ourselves saying, “we need to mention this place” in the magazine because the food is so good. So, Ride To Eat is born! We feel that all bikers, like us, like to eat.....and when you do, it’s good to know that there’s a diner, cafe, bistro, pizza joint, Que, pasta; you name it; that you can count on Thunder Roads to have been there, ate that, and given you the truth on it.
When did you open NY Pie? “December 15th, 2010″
Logo Complements of 3-D Head Custom Paint
When was the first time you fell in love with New York style pizza? “It’s basically all I know since I was a little kid. But, I really fell in love with it when I was five or six. Seeing Tony throw the dough up at “Bella Capri” in Jersey. Every time I went in to see Tony, I asked him for a job. “Once you can see over the counter – kid, I’ll hire you.” He eventually did hire me. Ever since, I knew I wanted to be a pizza guy.”
The NY Pie Story & Greg Meyer…Greg grew up in New Jersey working as a teenager in pizzerias with first generation Italians who grew up in New York. In both New York and New Jersey, Greg learned tricks of the trade like making fresh dough and sauce. After several persistent requests from Greg, his first mentor told him that he could have a job as soon as he was tall enough to see over the counter. Thankfully, Greg had tall genes…. at 12 and 13, the jobs were not so glorious as he assembled pizza boxes from flat pieces of cardboard and cleaned the restrooms [for those of you that have 12 year olds, can you imagine just how clean those restrooms were?] From there, he learned to make dough from scratch, hand-toss the dough, make the sauce, and finally make signature New York pizza. Over the years, Greg developed his own Italian recipes and “secrets” into what is now “NY Pie”. New York pizza has fairly specific traits — a thin and crispy crust, the right amount of quality sauce (not too much so that you can taste the flavor!!) and premium cheese. What Makes NY Pie Real New York Pizza? 1. Fresh home-made dough prepared from scratch fresh daily – no frozen dough here 2. Dough hand-tossed to a thin, even crust (it’s harder than it looks!) 3. Brick ovens – from pizza peel to oven – no conveyor belt ovens and no screens 4. Fresh sauce made daily from imported Italian tomatoes 5. Premium grade cheese 6. Experience!!! 7. Love for the Art July 2013
Owner: Greg Meyer
What do you love most about creating real New York style pizza? “It’s a dying art. I like the compliments from the fellow Yankees who really get it. They (the Yankees) say “I’ve been down here for 20 years and no one knows how to make a good pie – thank you for being here now!” I love when non-Yankees have the same appreciation. Basically, I love it when people see the art and understand that it isn’t as easy as it looks. There is a lot of time and energy that goes into making our pies. Those that appreciate and love what we are creating makes it all worth it.” What makes your background so perfect for creating what many consider to be the best pizza in Nashville? “It’s my experience and my passion for making pizza. I’ve worked at some of the best pizzerias in the Northeast, learning from the best Italian restaurant owners. For me, it is and remains on-going. I still do experiments to make our pizzas (and other recipes) better and better. With food, the possibilities are endless. I do subtle things that maybe only I can tell – or maybe not!” What would be one or two things you would want your customers to know? “I honestly appreciate their feedback – flat out. I appreciate all the customers I do have. Out of all my pizzerias [this is Greg’s third], the customers I have in Nashville are the nicest and most appreciative. I am grateful for opening in Nashville. Above all, I really appreciate their support which is directly correlated to our ability to employ over 15 people in today’s economy. We value a staff that is keen on providing great customer service, doing the right thing, and who are really hard workers.”
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The Bike for Every Memory -
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Triumph T-100
remember sitting on the side of the road watching the taillights from the Arizona State Trooper’s Ford fade out of sight. I ran my hand through my hair and scratched the back of my neck where a mosquito had bitten earlier in the day. Apparently my taillight had blown out and the officer informed me that if I were to continue on that evening he would have to write me a ticket. I asked him what I was supposed to do for the night and he suggested I set up camp along one of the fire roads that run through the scrub brush forests south of the Grand Canyon National Park. I fondly refer to this particular trip as “My Trip to the Grand Canyon Without Actually Getting to See the Grand Canyon.” I had planned poorly and didn’t have enough money to pay entry to the park and afford gas to make it back to my apartment in Los Angeles. After a long, cold night camping on the side of a dirt road, listening uncomfortably to the coyotes howl throughout the night, I turned around and slowly headed home. In this day and age of credit cards it’s hard to believe that I could have ended up in this situation but it is an adventure I look back on fondly. I have had many of these adventures on my trusty Triumph Bonneville T-100 since I bought her brand new in 2005 from Hermy’s Triumph and BMW up in Port Clinton, PA my junior year of college. I was working part time as an auto mechanic and putting myself through school to get my teaching degree. I had just enough money left over from my expenses at the end of the month to afford the $137 payment. Two months after purchasing the Bonnie I took her on her first long road trip up to Bar Harbor, Maine to visit friends and explore Arcadia National Park. It was on this particular trip where I learned the stock seat is not ideal for longer treks and I soon replaced it with Triumph’s “King/Queen” seat. Just so we are clear, by “not ideal” I mean it brought tears to my eyes and sores to my bottom soon after 300 miles in the saddle of a 750 mile day. When I headed out to Los Angeles to take a teaching job, the T-100 came with me and my car got sold. For the first two years, the Triumph was my only mode of transportation. During summer breaks she would take me up and down the coast to visit friends in San Francisco, out for adventures exploring ghost towns in the desert , down to the border to experience real Mexican cuisine, and even across the country and back to take a ride on the original Lincoln Highway using maps I found from 1925. I now live in Nashville, TN and the T-100 is with me still; currently she has just over 62,000 miles on the odometer. In this whole time she has never let me down. I have made some changes to her looks over the years thanks to the extensive amount of accessories available for these bikes but her 865cc heart and soul is bone stock and beating just fine. 30
Aside from Triumph replacing the Keihin carburetors with fuel injectors in 2009 and gaining an extra 9 horsepower the current T-100 is almost identical to my 2005. The current model makes just under 70 hp and 50 ft/lbs of torque. The 5 speed gearbox is smooth and seamless and delivers power to the rear wheel via a final chain drive. The T-100 has some added tweaks and flair over the base Bonneville with chromed spoke wheels, 1-inch handlebar, chromed engine cases, redesigned flat 50’s style seat, and a tachometer kit. Even today the pin stripping on the tanks is still done by hand and signed underneath by the artist. The biggest feature the Triumph Bonneville T-100 has going for it is vibe. Plain and simple, this bike has just got a style and feel that makes you smile. It truly stands behind Triumph’s claim that this bike is a “Modern Classic”. From the day you take it home it will draw looks, comments, and admiring stares. Its pedigree is so deeply imbedded in American history that owning a Triumph is almost as American as owning a Harley Davidson. When I bought my T-100 I originally planned on getting a vintage bike and fixing it up. I instead opted for the style and look of a vintage bike with all the reliability and feel of a new bike. People still come up to me at gas stations and ask me what year it is and expect me to rattle off some date from the mid 60’s. The memories I have made with this bike over the years are priceless. We don’t buy motorcycles because we want to play it safe or fly below the radar. We buy motorcycles because we seek adventure, we yearn for the open road, and most of all we want stories to tell our grandchildren. These stories don’t always end the way we expect them to and that is half the fun. I barely made it home from that initial trip to the Grand Canyon. I rolled back into town completely broke, out of gas, and wickedly sunburned but I’d do it all again in a second. These are the stories we carry with us, these are the stories we laugh at when we tell them for years to come, and these are the stories we learn from when we make our next trip. Triumph’s motto is “Ride Your Own Biography”. I could not think of a more fitting way to describe how I have spent the last eight years with my T-100. I have ridden a lifetime of stories and I wouldn’t rewrite any one of them. **If you are in the Nashville area and want to see a Triumph Bonneville T-100 in person or schedule a test ride, contact Castle Powersports in Madison, TN www.castlepowersports. com. If you would like to check out some of the ways to customize your Triumph go to www.British-Customs.com. Castle Powersports is an official British Customs retailer.
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scarred for life, but she remains a true believer, and by that aspect alone, she has won. She is victorious.
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Even on the 2nd reading it was a book that just had to be read from cover to cover. I simply could not put it down as each chapter left me wanting more and cheering K.T. on and yelling at the bureaucracy idiots and woohoo’ing for the biker community, as I personally know are the most giving of any community out there. 63-9
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Back (7) years ago when I first read K.T.’s book it virtually shocking to me, and I am not one who shocks easily by any means. And I went through all these emotions with her or for her. I remember throwing the book down once and swearing not to pick it back up……but I did, and now I’ve read it again and it still evokes so many deep emotions. It is a virtual roller coaster of who, what, where…… but most of all, why?
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K.T. has been through such a horrific childhood, teen years and even into her mid-life that a lesser woman would have given up long ago and bit the bullet. But K.T. is this unique, rare soul that the more you put on her to bear, the more she says, “bring it on, I’ll figure it out”. And that she does. She is one of the most downto-Earth and forgiving, evolved human being that I’ve ever had the privilege to call Friend. After you read the book you will sit and ponder just how she came to her place of forgiveness. Those that have forgiven someone of horrendous happenings know that either you truly forgive from the heart or you forever suffer from the hate that eats at your soul bite by bite.
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PIECES OF MY HEART will be a book you share with many or recount the story to friends and Family. Regardless, it is time very well spent as you read how this young girl was pushed down so many times, only to get back up relentlessly and move forward towards her primary goal. You are virtually one in a million Krazy K.T., and you and Virgil have earned a peaceful, bountiful life together.
With much love, respect and awe, Being a firm believer Toni McCoy Shearon – in the fact that we all have our Co-Founder and Publisher, journey to travel and our story Thunder Roads Magazine® to tell, I can only say that K.T., against all odds, won. She had so many people on her journey that showed her another piece of the puzzle, which I believe could also be a metaphor in her title of “heart”. But the way she unraveled all the clues and put her “puzzle” back together again is a sometimes rough and brutal slaying and sometimes a tender and caressing stroke of luck and love. K.T. literally walked through hell and come out smoldering and July 2013
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Softco ver
-FEATURED MC-
what we can in any way we can within our means helping on the homefront
Internet searches about the Patriot Guard Riders (PGR) turn up two general categories of results—1) processions of rumbling bikes escorting a hearse, family and friends from/to a church, a funeral home, or a cemetery, and 2) biker-type individuals standing shoulder-to-shoulder, silently holding 3’ x 5’ U.S. flags.
Nettles help organize unique “field trips” to offer some off-base diversion. From visits to local museums like the NRA, Monticello, and Dulles Air and Space, to excursions to, well, Harley Davidson dealers, patients and families can become tourists for several
The PGR initially formed to shield mourning families and friends from the bizarre, perverted exercise of free speech by a small group of media-aware, attention leeches. It’s nonviolent, non-confrontational, and legal tactics frustrate the leeches so much that they have their endearing description of the PGR. In contrast to their normal venom, “thugs and liars” seems rather tame, don’t you think? Search results about PGR’s “Help on the Homefront” (HOTH) mission are relatively sparse. The Wounded Warrior Project has brought national attention to the struggles of recovering warriors. Recovery also presents challenges for families. Recuperation at Walter Reed may take months, even years. Family support may be hundreds, even thousands, of miles distant. HOTH supplements the Wounded Warrior Project, providing assistance in its own unique manner. Maryland Patriot Guard’s (MD PG) support of HOTH shows in its work with the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center-Bethesda (Walter Reed). Ann and Ted Nettles, PGR members from 2006, are the primary faces of the Walter Reed support. The Nettles balance work-a-day lives with a wide-ranging commitment that spans from one-on-one work with patients, to organizing group events, to the endless process of fund- and awareness-raising that helps PGR HOTH fill the niches left by the big programs. Through their close-up contact, the Nettles hear about, for example, family members visiting from the Deep South who don’t have suitable clothing for Mid-Atlantic winters. Or they recognize how a small crock pot could help with home cooked meals on limited budgets. Recovery can be boring. Where possible, the 34
On-campus events make participation easy.
hours. There have even been introductions to Maryland’s haute cuisine, steamed crabs. Once past the expected “I’m supposed to EAT THAT?” phase, most have enjoyed. Physical challenges and treatment protocols make on-campus activities an important part of the Nettles work. Donations to MD PG have paid for food, prizes, refreshments, and other such costs for events such as: • Fight nights: Audiences watch paid-per-view slates of boxing or MMA. • Annual BBQ: Last year, this June cookout fed almost 300 patients and family. • Call of Duty Video Game night: A tournament determined the campus champs. • Fall Fest: Family event with food, live music, mule drawn wagon rides, costumes, and even a “haunted” area. • And, of course, a Super Bowl Party. (The Nettles, Redskin fans, stifled their jealousy.)
First Impressions with steamed crabs can make chow hall food seem more appealing.
Patients have received motorcycle vests complete with patches. Individuals or groups who sponsor vests get a “donated by” patch sewn inside. The Eagle Head Cane Project provides personalized, hand-carved eagle head canes to those recovering from leg injuries.
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Sometimes, MD PG recognizes and meets very individual needs. For example, one soldier requested a light weight wheelchair to further his independence. His wounds make walking difficult and lifting a heavy, cumbersome wheelchair in and out vehicles increases the difficulty. MD PG paid for a lightweight chair--19 pounds. Nettles: “We do whatever we can in any way we can within our means to help them have an enjoyable time, personally and with the various events we sponsor. We have a core group of helpers we depend on and trust—from PGR members to Gold Star Mothers, Blue Star Mothers, and even the Baltimore Sports and Social Club.” Trust is central to the Nettles’ work as the military is very protective of its wounded members. Over time, the Nettles have demonstrated that their promises and commitments are dependable, and patients in their care are in good hands. When the PGR created its HOTH program, there were optimistic visions about how it would work. MD PG’s work at Walter Reed manifests the best of those intentions. From the vague HOTH strategy of “Help the warriors and their families back here” to the tactical “Help this particular hero know somebody cares,” the Nettles demonstrate a unique talent about honoring service and sacrifice to our nation. For more information about the Patriot Guard Riders and its HOTH program: patriotguard.org For more information about MD Patriot Guard and its support of the HOTH program: MDPatriotGuard.org
Ted and Ann (standing center and right at presentation of lightweight wheelchair and a hand-carved cane. “(The wheelchair) has improved my mobility tremendously… hats off to you and your team for what you do for my brothers and sisters … and me. “ Omar D.
July 2013
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Written by: Bob Hamlin Ride Captain, Patriot Guard Riders 301 471 0218 Rehamlin02@yahoo.com
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TourS of Duty
The Bumpus Harley-Davidson® Dealerships By: Cindy Tatum, President Department of TN American Gold Star Mothers
this project that would help our military and their family members right here in Tennessee.
It was a cool, beautiful day in December 2011 at, of all places, a gravesite in the country for a Fallen Hero, the eternal resting place for Stephen Spencer, USAF. Among the hundred or so bikers who had come to pay their respects to a fallen hero, was Scott Bumpus of Bumpus Harley Davidson in Jackson, TN. Stephen’s dad, Rob, is an avid Harley rider, a friend of Scott. After the 21 gun salute, as people were exchanging goodbyes and leaving, I spoke to Scott briefly and asked if a friend of mine and I could meet with him about the possibility of a Poker Run for the TN Fisher House. Scott said, “Sure, give me a call and let’s set up a meeting.”
During the summer of 2012, AGS Moms became quite the fixtures in the Bumpus Harley Davidson Dealerships across TN. We were treated better than family by the many workers and bikers we encountered along the way. At the end of the Tour of Duty ride, over $25,000 was donated to the TN Fisher House.
In January 2012, fellow American Gold Star Mother, Molly Morel and I met with Scott in Jackson to talk about a possible fundraiser for the TN Fisher House that was in the planning stage for Murfreesboro, TN. We explained what the Fisher House was, and Scott and his Marketing Team said they wanted to do more than, “just a Poker Run.” Scott felt this project would be something the entire Bumpus Harley Davidson Dealership family would like to become involved in, potentially becoming a major fundraiser for the first Fisher House built in TN. Molly and I left that meeting elated at the prospect of helping to raise funds for a project that we felt so passionate about. Within a couple of weeks, again we talked with Scott; he began to unfold the particulars of the Bumpus Harley Davidson Dealership’s Tour of Duty Passport Ride in conjunction with the Department of TN American Gold Star Mothers. Scott told us not to worry, “the Bumpus family would take care of all the details,” all we had to do was show up to stamp passports! Molly and I just kept thinking how great it would be to raise money for July 2013
February 2013, Molly and I are once again in the office of Scott Bumpus, hoping we can convince the Bumpus family to partner with us once again. This go around, we had a different kind of project in mind, one that would bring awareness to PTSD and the epidemic of Veteran and Active Duty Military suicides. Not your average kind of ride… Not your average kind of message. Every 1 hour and 5 minutes, a Veteran commits suicide, every 25 hours a member of our Active Duty Military commits suicide. Once again, the Bumpus family of Harley Davidson Dealerships stepped up to the challenge, and with a bold stance, vowed to help us spread the word and raise some money to make a difference in the lives of our military and their families. It is not too often that you meet a family like the Bumpus clan who are willing to put the needs of our military, their families and veterans at the forefront during their busiest time of year. So, if you are out riding this summer between now and July 20th, and you happen to be in Middle or West TN, stop in one of the five Bumpus Harley Davidson Dealerships. Pick up a passport for $20, and help us “Stop It.” If you happen to see Scott, Tom, Tim, or Jerry, tell them their resident Gold Star Mothers think they are the best and we love them!! Contact Cindy at 731-693-9394 for more information.
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DEALERS & SHOPS Appleton’s Harley-Davidson/Buell 2501 Hwy 41A Bypass Clarksville, TN 37043 931-648-1607
Knoxville Harley-Davidson 605 Lovell Rd Knoxville, TN 37932 865-671-2454 Knoxville Harley-Davidson 5800 Clinton Highway Knoxville, TN 37912 865-689-2454
Bost Harley Davidson 4600 Delaware Ave Nashville, TN 37209 615-297-7500 or 866-374-2759
S&G Custom Cycles 1114 Galloway St Columbia, TN 38401 931-381-7282 www.sgcustomcyles.com
Boswell’s of Cookeville 1421 Interstate Dr Cookeville, TN 38501 931-526-3139
Smoky Mountain Harley Davidson 1820 Lamar Alexander Pkwy Maryville, TN 37801 865-977-1669
Boswell’s of Downtown Nashville 180 2nd Ave. N. Nashville, TN 37201 615-242-7078 Boswell’s of Nashville 401 Fesslers Ln Nashville, TN 37210 615-242-6067 Boswell’s of Rivergate 2200 Gallatin Pike N Madison, TN 37115 615-855-1001 Bumpus H-D / Buell of Murfreesboro 2250 NW Broad St Murfreesboro, TN 37129 615-849-8025 Bumpus H-D / Buell of Memphis 2160 Whitten Rd Memphis, TN 38133 901-372-1121 Bumpus H-D / Buell of Jackson 326 Carriage House Dr Jackson, TN 38305 731-422-5508 Bumpus Harley Davidson 325 S Byhalia Rd Collierville, TN 38017 901-376-1121 H.D. of Columbia 1616 Harley Davidson Blvd Columbia, TN 38401 931-540-0099 H-D of Cool Springs 7128 S. Springs Drive Franklin, TN 37067 866-667-8836 hdcoolsprings.com July 2013
BARS & RESTAURANTS
Silverado’s Rivergate & Lebanon 709A Rivergate Pkwy. Goodlettsville, TN 37072 615-851-4490 Bike Nite Wednesdays The V Tavern - Cafe 2442 River Road Ashland City, TN 37015 615-792-1695 www.thevtavern-cafe.com
MOTORCYCLE INS. C. Bo Brumit Ins. Agcy., 5608 Hwy 11 E. - Suite C3 Piney Flats, TN 37686 Toll Free: (866) 700-4218 Specializing in Biker Ins. Rates
MINISTRIES Almighty Smokin’ BBQ 3371 U.S. Hwy41-A South Clarksville, TN 37043 Bsteinsultz@Gmail.Com 931-358-3633 Bent Wrench Roadhouse 4724 Ashland City Road Fredonia, TN 37146 931-362-4774 www. thebentwrenchroadhouse.com Double E Bar/Grill 4957 Lebanon Pike Old Hickory, TN 37138 615-885-3400 Hooter’s Clarksville 750 N. Riverside Dr. Clarksville, TN 37040 931-920-8400 Hooters of Harding Place 217 Largo Drive Nashville 615--331-0842 Hooters of Rivergate 654 Wade Circle S. Goodlettsville 615-851-6499 JUJU’s 1078 N Broadway Portland, TN 37148 615-323-5871 The Shed 1820 Lamar Alexander Pkwy Maryville, TN 37801 865-977-1669
Covenant Confirmers Ministries, Inc. Pastor Ron Baptiste A “Biker Church” for All Bikers & Their Families. (615) 384-9010 www.covenantconfirmers.org
PAINT & PINSTRIPING 3D Head Custom Paint™ Knoxville, Tn 865-621-9836 Ask for: Kenny or Tony Our Graphics Will Blow Your Mind! Visual Edge Pinstriping by George 1050 Spain Hill Rd Lascassas, TN 37085 www.v-edge.com 615-273-2877
R BIKEDL Y N FRIECTORY DIRE Collin’s Interiors 3704 Nolensville Pike Nashville, TN 37211 615-977-2188
Pig and Pie Catering www.pigandpie.net 615-356-5652 We Specialize In Smokin’ Nashville’s Best Butts! Tennessee Biker Medical Clinic 300 10th Ave E Springfield, TN 37172 www.covenantconfirmers. org
TRAILERS L&S Motorcycle Trailer Rentals Ask for Larry Cell: 615-308-1288 All size trailers for your needs!
LEGAL AIM/NCOM Richard M. Lester 800-531-2424/ 1-800-on-a-bike www.onabike.com
SERVICES TRAVEL Affordable Lights & Audio LED lights & stereo’s for all bikes. By appointment only. We come to you. Call Mechele @ 615-496-1493 for pricing. Charlie’s Shoe & Boot Repair 108 W Main St Lebanon, TN 37087 615-449-6065
ThunderRoadsTennessee.com
Mechele MacDaniel AAA Travel 1701 Mallory Ln, Ste 200, Brentwood Tn 37027 mmacdaniel@aaasouth.com 615-376-1601 ext 265 Call for all your travel needs.
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NEWS BYTES
compared to motorcycle registration numbers found on the U.S. DOT Federal Highway Administration website:
NCOM BIKER NEWSBYTES Compiled & Edited by Bill Bish, National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM)
FEDERAL RULE WILL REQUIRE A “BLACK BOX” IN NEW VEHICLES Congress failed to pass legislation that would have required manufacturers to install event data recorders (EDRs) in all new vehicles, so a federal safety agency is using its rulemaking authority to mandate that all new cars sold in the United States be equipped with so-called“black boxes” - capable of capturing what happened in the moments before and during a crash. Citing privacy concerns, House Republicans had succeeded in removing a Senate provision requiring EDRs from the final transportation bill last year, so the Obama administration is bypassing the legislative process in favor of the administrative rule. Insisting the devices are meant for crash investigation purposes, and not for invading privacy, the U.S. DOT National Traffic Safety Administration mandate will require all automobiles and light trucks manufactured after September 1, 2014 to have an EDR device that stores driving information for federal investigators. Automotive EDRs are similar to -- though not nearly as sophisticated as -- the black boxes used in commercial airliners, and they are already installed in nearly 92% of today’s vehicles, according to industry officials, and provide important information for industry engineers and, in some circumstances, law enforcement authorities. But Horace Cooper of the National Center for Public Policy Analysis called the move “an unprecedented breach of privacy for Americans.” Cooper said that contrary to what is being claimed, EDRs “can and will track the comings and goings of car owners and even their passengers” -- and what they can record is virtually unlimited. In the meantime, U.S. Representatives Mike Capuano (D-MA) and Jim Sensenbrenner (R-WI) have announced their intentions to introduce the “Black Box Privacy Protection Act” that will protect drivers’ and riders’ rights by requiring dealers to disclose to consumers if a vehicle is equipped with an EDR, would require manufacturers to allow consumers to deactivate the device, and clarifies that the owner of the vehicle owns the data and it cannot be accessed without permission. “Consumers should have control over the information collected by event data recorders in vehicles that they own and they should have the option of disabling the device if they choose to do so. This is a basic issue of privacy,” said Rep. Capuano. DESPITE MEDIA HYPE, MOTORCYCLING IS SAFER Record numbers of motorcycles over the past few years have resulted in an increased number of annual motorcyclist fatalities, and in light of overall motor vehicle fatalities steadily decreasing gives the impression that motorcycling is becoming more dangerous, but just the opposite is true. While so-called safety experts point to more and more states relaxing their helmet laws as the root of all this evil, it’s in fact a numbers game that motorcycle enthusiasts are winning. Over the past five years, since 2007 when there were just over seven million motorcycles in the U.S., motorcycle registrations nationwide have ballooned to eight and a half million; an increase of 15% more motorcycles on the road today, while at the same time fatalities per 100,000 registered motorcycles has actually decreased by nearly a quarter! Moreover, over the past decade motorcycle registrations have risen 40.7% (from 5,004,156 in 2002 to 8,437,502 in 2011), but the fatality rate dropped 17.3% (from 65.35 per 100K to 54.66). Check out the most current statistics acquired by the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM) from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS), 40
Year - Registered Motorcycles / Rider Fatalities = Fatality Rate per 100,000 Motorcycles 2007 - 7,138,476 / 5,174 = 72.48 2008 - 7,752,926 / 5,312 = 68.52 2009 - 7,929,724 / 4,469 = 56.35 2010 - 8,009,503 / 4,518 = 56.40 2011 - 8,437,502 / 4,612 = 54.66 **NOTE: According to these data analyzed by the National Coalition of Motorcyclists, motorcycle registrations have increased 15.4% over the past five years, while fatalities decreased by 10.9% and the fatality rate declined 24.6%...why isn’t the news media reporting THESE facts? GERMAN STUDY CLAIMS MOTORCYCLE HELMETS COULD BE SIGNIFICANTLY SAFER A study carried out by the German Hohenstein Institute in Bönnigheim shows that motorcycle helmets could indeed be a lot safer if some other measurements would be taken into account, concluding that inner shell size alone is not enough for providing the best protection-to-fit ratio, and the head shape is just as critical. The Hohenstein Institute study narrowed the head shapes to 6 major categories, with an amazing width variance of 3.5 cm (1.37”), determining that one helmet size cannot possibly offer the best fit for all these head shapes, even provided the circumference is the same. With the way the inner impact layer fits on the rider’s head being one of the critical elements in shock absorption and G-dispersion, it’s apparent that the same shape will create different pressure points on a motorcyclist’s skull, leading to various outcomes in similar crash conditions. Spaces between the skull and the protective layer / liner result in less optimal protection in case of an impact, and such anthropometric head data could improve helmet design and manufacturing significantly, should the leading brands take notice of the study’s finding. JAYHAWKERS SEE THE LIGHT The Kansas legislature unanimously passed House Bill 2318 which allows a motorcycle’s headlamp to be wired with a headlamp modulation system, which must meet federal standards. The bill also allows certain types of lights on the sides of motorcycles, visible only from the side and not from the front or rear and to not protrude beyond or outside the body or wheel of the motorcycle. The side lights may emit white, amber, or red light without glare. The legislation was signed into law on April 4, 2013 by Governor Sam Brownback and goes into effect July 1st. RED-LIGHT CAMERA COMPANIES FIGHT LAWS AND RULINGS AGAINST TICKET CAMS Purveyors of red-light cameras continue their quest to place cameras on every street corner in the nation, and one strategy is to put the hit on states that have traditionally been “protected” from cameras either through legislation or court ruling. Redflex lobbyists recently swarmed over the Minnesota Statehouse pushing a bill to allow ticket cameras into the state. The bill was written to thwart a 2007 Minnesota Supreme Court ruling that Minneapolis’ red-light camera program was unconstitutional. The bill was defeated in committee, thanks in part to the efforts of ABATE of Minnesota and the National Motorists Association (NMA). In Michigan, where a 2007 ruling from the state’s attorney general has been keeping cameras at bay, recently introduced camera legislation has turned Michigan into the latest photo enforcement battleground state. The NMA (www.motorists.org) warns that if you live in one of the 15
ThunderRoadsTennessee.com
July 2013
NEWS BYTES ENDORSED BY THE NATIONAL COALITION OF MOTORCYCLISTS $2
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(800) ON-A-BIKE
Visit us on the web at www.ONABIKE.com
states that have taken steps to keep cameras out, stay alert. Chances AIM-2622-F-Ad for Tennessee.indd 1 are that a camera company lobbyist is cozying up to a friendly state lawmaker with a nice campaign donation and a pre-written camera bill that needs support. HONDA & BMW EXPERIMENT WITH “AUTONOMOUS MOTORCYCLE” Most connected vehicle technologies have focused squarely on the car, but BMW and Honda are working to develop autonomous driving technologies that work on two wheels. Both BMW and Honda have already added plenty of connectivity to their cars, but now the two automotive giants are working with the University of Michigan and Australian startup Cohda Wireless to put networking smarts into their motorcycles. Adelaide-based Cohda designs radio systems and software that will not only link nearby vehicles on the road to each other, but also to the road itself. The idea behind its autonomous car technology is to create an ever-changing ad-hoc network of vehicles communicating their intentions and interacting with the infrastructure of the road. Known as vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) and vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I), these technologies could help power self-driving cars of the future. The University of Michigan Transportation Institute (UMTRI) runs one of the key test-beds for that technology, and its lab is running an ongoing trial of 3,000 connected vehicles in Ann Arbor, Mich., which is where Honda and BMW will put their connected motorcycles through the paces, according to a report on GigaOM.com. Motorcycles may not have much room on their instrument panels for the connected infotainment systems going into today’s cars, but they could definitely benefit from any technology that makes mounting a motorcycle safer, and one of the major goals of V2I and V2V efforts is to reduce accidents and improve safety on the road. Vehicles could make quicker and better driving decisions than drivers because they would be able to access more info from the networks around them and react to it nearly instantaneously (they’re also less easily distracted than human drivers). As for motorcycle applications, Cohda and UMTRI plan to test technologies that let bikes talk to traffic lights, roadside beacons and other cars, warning them of green lights about to turn red and dangerous curves ahead requiring them to slow down. By using a longrange secure form of Wi-Fi, a motorcycle could communicate with a car long before the drivers can see one another as they both approach a blind intersection. Previously, a riderless motorcycle was developed in 2005 by graduate students from UC Berkeley to compete in a 150-mile off-road race for autonomous vehicles to further develop self-navigating vehicles for the Department of Defense. July 2013
11/1/11 5:06 PM CANADIAN INSURER TO TRACK MOTORCYCLIST BEHAVIOR WITH “TELEMATICS” With an eye to calibrating insurance rates, Saskatchewan Government Insurance plans to use new technology to track how fast and how far motorcycles go. It’s called telematics and someday could be used to help set insurance rates, among other things, but for now SGI is just trying the technology out with a pilot program.
It’s looking for several hundred motorcycle users to volunteer to have their bikes equipped with telematics technology. The“black box”-type gadgets would record speed, braking, mileage and location. The volunteer riders would have weekly updates on their driving behavior, to show them what information SGI would be looking at. “Usage-based insurance is the ultimate in rating fairness because it essentially lets the driver control their own insurance rate through their driving behavior,” said Donna Harpauer, the minister responsible for SGI. “Simply put, those who drive responsibly pay less and those who don’t pay more.” While no one’s rates will be affected by the pilot program, the experiment is one of the ideas coming out of the Motorcycle Review Committee, a group formed in the wake of a storm of controversy after SGI had proposed boosting motorcycle rates an average of 73% to compensate for high injury claims. Government-owned SGI later withdrew its proposal and came back with some milder proposed increases for motorbikes, including the telematics pilot program that could begin as early as this season. POPE BLESSES HARLEYS& RIDERS Thousands of Harley riders from around the world were blessed by Pope Francis in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday, June 16 as one of the stops in a worldwide celebration of the famous motorcycle maker’s 110th anniversary, which will roar across 11 countries before concluding in Milwaukee over Labor Day Weekend. Choral music mixed with revving engines as the Holy Father blessed a sea of Harley-Davidson motorcycles and riders from all parts of the planet flocking to Italy over the weekend of June 13-16 to celebrate Harley-Davidson’s milestone, and earlier in the weekend festivities, the leader of the Roman Catholic Church was presented with two white classic Harley-Davidson motorcycles for use by Papal police and his own black leather jacket. Get in on the action while the anniversary tour is still in high gear. Check out www.110.Harley-Davidson.com for schedules and cities. QUOTABLE QUOTE: “Men love their country, not because it is great, but because it is their own.” Seneca (4 BC – AD 65), Roman philosopher and statesman
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STURGIS KENTUCKY BIKE RALLY Date: 07/18/2013 - 07/21/2013 Time: 8:00 AM Location: Union Co Fairgrounds 125 Pryor Blvd Sturgis, KY 42459 Contact phone: 270-952-1237 Adults only Fun! No persons under 21 allowed. Live music, games, contests, vendors, showers and much more! No guns, knifes, or pets please. Come out and enjoy the best Adult Bike Rally in Kentucky. Great bands, Kentucky Head Hunters, Geneva, Moccasin Creek, Big Engine, Bush Hawg, and Jeff Vaughn Band. Cost for the weekend $30. $20 for Saturday. SONS OF ANARCHY Jackson “Jax” Teller, Charlie Hunnam will be there. Meet up with JAX before the show and get exclusive back stage access to party with your favorite SONS OF ANARCHY star. Plus on Friday met Ryan “OPIE” Hurst. VIP Tickets available. Check website for more info. 1ST NORTH AMERICAN LEGION RIDER FAMILY DAY & POKER RUN Date: 07/20/2013 - 07/20/2013 Time: 7:00 AM Location: 130 Shelton Rd. Manchester, TN 37355 Contact email: amiee68@yahoo.com Contact phone: 931-409-5339 Amy $15.00 Bike & Rider, $5.00 Co-Rider, $10.00 Bike Show Fee, Door Prizes, family games. Meal included with any entrance fee (for all others meal tickets will be available for purchase). Breakfast & Lunch will be available. Sign up 7am: 1st bike out at 8am, last bike out 9am. Sign up for Bike Show by 1pm. BANNERFEST CHRISTIAN BIKER MINISTRY/CLUB WEEKEND Date: 07/25/2013 - 07/28/2013 Time: 9:00 AM Location: Punkin Center Motorcycle Resort 7304 Old Railroad Bed Rd Maryville TN 37801 Contact email: Pilgrim157@MSN.com Contact phone: 407-538-3326 Bannerfest (Our True Colors) Jehovah Nissi. Christian BikerMinistry/Club Weekend open to one & all, just off Hwy 129 the Dragon in East Tn... Ridin’, Word & Music, featured bands: Bone Prophet, In-graved, & Rent Vail. Tent camping, RV, & rental cabins. Call Tom “pritch” Pritchett. HOGFEST SUMMER BASH BIKE RALLY Date: 07/26/2013 - 07/28/2013 Time: 6:00 AM Location: Hogfest Bike Rally Grounds 56 Taylor Road Pelham TN 37356 Contact email: hogfest_of_tn@yahoo.com Contact phone: 931-808-1594 Lots of fun! Free Bike Games & Bike Show & Nightly Adult Contest & Costume Contest! Wet T Shirt Contest, Stripper Poles, Topless Bull Riding and much more! Live Music All Weekend Long! Free Warm Showers ***BYOB*** Or Beer and Ice sold on site. Party Rain or Shine. Gates open at 6AM. Convenient Stores next to I-24 & Rally Site is within a mile from I-24 and easy to find. Contact Info: Jimbo - 931-308-5500 Venders Call: Weatherly 931-808-1594 $30 per person for the entire event. Includes camping & games! RV’s welcome - Sorry no hookups yet! *Must be 21 or older* D/H CMT/ABATE CANOE POKER RUN Date: 07/27/2013 - 07/27/2013 Time: 10:00 AM Location: Exit 143 off I-40 Cuba Landing Road Contact email: eddiefravel_its@yahoo.com Exit 143 off I-40 1/2 mile on the right Cuba Landing Rd at the Bluehole Bridge. Poker run on the buffalo river while canoeing. Loads of fun every year. Canoe rental $30. Poker hands $5. Primitive camping is free.
Contact email: appletonharleyda@aol.com Contact phone: (931) 648-1607 Come to Appleton’s H-D to see some beautiful old and new school cars and motorcycles. Along with, live music, food and Harley Hotties! 9TH ANNUAL DIXIE DOGS & CATS POKER RUN Date: 07/27/2013 - 07/27/2013 Time: 10:00 AM Location: Pokeys 918 Sahara Dr Cleveland Tn Contact email: dayspay@dixiedogsandcats.org Contact phone: (423) 618-2101 - Bet Silent & Live Auctions, Music, Tons of Prizes! $25 for 3 HANDS & Cool T-SHIRT - $10 for ONE HAND All proceeds benefit Dixie Day Spay, Cleveland’s low-cost spay/ neuter clinic, a 501c3 non-profit organization BENEFIT POKER RUN FOR JACKSON COX Date: 07/27/2013 - 07/27/2013 Time: 11:00 AM Location: The Snack Shop 1215 Main St Union City TN Contact phone: 731-504-9862 Prizes, Karaoke, 50/50, Food and More BENEFIT RIDE FOR THE BENTON COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTER Date: 07/27/2013 - 07/27/2013 Time: 9:00 AM - 6:00 AM Location: Veterans Memorial at the Benton County Ball Park Industrial Dr Camden TN 38320 Hosted by 3 Degrees Masonic Motorcycle Club. Ride to raise money for the Animal shelter. There will be a BBQ plate meal provided to all riders at end of the ride. Registration will be $20.00 per rider and $10.00 per passenger. KNOXVILLE RIDE FOR KIDS Date: 07/28/2013 - 07/28/2013 Time: 8:00 AM Location: Pellissippi State Community College 10915 Hardin Valley Rd. Knoxville TN 37933 Contact email: pbtfus@pbtfus.org Contact phone: 800-253-6530 When you join hundreds of other motorcyclists for this scenic ride through the Tennessee countryside, you’ll have a great time while raising funds for the PBTF’s medical research and family support programs! Riders on all makes and models are welcome. Registration opens at 8 a.m. and closes at 9:45 a.m. The escorted ride starts at 10 a.m. sharp, rain or shine! The ride will loop back to the start point. After a light lunch, participants will enjoy a Celebration of Life program that features interviews with young brain tumor survivors—the Ride for Kids “stars” of the day. Award presentations to top fundraisers will follow. We also draw for a new Honda motorcycle, AGV helmet, Cardo Scala Rider, Dunlop tire, and Tourmaster luggage. (You must be present to win.) 2ND ANNUAL DICE RUN Date: 08/10/2013 - 08/10/2013 Time: 10:00 AM Location: Obion county Rescue Squad Headquarters 304 S Sunswept St Union City TN 38261 Contact phone: 731-392-8287 Poker Run to help support the Obion County Rescue Squad. All Vehicles Welcome. HAWG HOLLER FALL BASH Date: 08/15/2013 - 08/18/2013 Time: 8:00 AM Location: 164 Clay Farm Lane Atwood TN 38220 Contact email: phil@clayfarminc.com Contact phone: 731-571-0125 Come join the fun at this 126 acre biker park with paved roads, hot showers, and vast camping areas. Enjoy a weekend full of live music, great food, vendors, field events, stage contests, and more. 21 AND UP ONLY - NO EXCEPTIONS. Gates open at 8am on Thursday. ABSOLUTELY NO EARLY ENTRY !! $30.00 Per Person Admission. $30.00 Support Vehicle Charge.
HOT RODS & HARLEYS Date: 07/27/2013 - 07/27/2013 Time: 9:00 AM Location: Appletons H-D 2501 Highway 41A Bypass Clarksville Be sure to check all the ads in the magazine for any additional events. TN 37043 42 ThunderRoadsTennessee.com July 2013
Bring Your Golf Cart For Only $10 More! (NO ATVS ALLOWED) NO PETS•NO DRUGS•NO GLASS CONTAINERS 3RD ANNUAL WEST TENNESSEE VALLEY RALLY Date: 08/22/2013 - 08/25/2013 Time: 8:00 AM Location: 2410 Marshall Drive Morris Chapel TN 38361 Contact email: wtnvalleyrally@yahoo.com Contact phone: 731-412-6276 3 Concerts, Bike Show, Bike Games, Contests, Poker Run, Lots of Great Vendors, On-site Camping Good Food, Cold Beer and More. $25.00 per person. Price includes 4 day admission for event, camping (while sites available), no charge for support vehicles, campers, tents, bikes, etc... No Weapons, No Glass Bottles and No Bad Attitudes! Must be 18 to Enter the Campsite or Events! Kimberlie Helton Band, Geneva, and Stormgate Bands. Clean showers & bathrooms, firewood & ice available. BUDDY & GLEN POKER RUN Date: 08/24/2013 - 08/24/2013 Time: 9:00 AM Location: Appleton H-D 2501 Highway 41A Bypass Clarksville TN 37043 Contact email: appletonharleyda@aol.com Appleton H-D’s annual Buddy & Glen Poker Run will be a day full of live music, food, a poker run where all proceeds go to St.Jude’s and much more! Everything done will be in honor of our founders who have passed from cancer, Buddy and Glen Appleton. HOGFEST LABOR DAY WEEKEND FALL BIKE RALLY Date: 08/30/2013 - 09/02/2013 Time: 1:00 PM Location: Hogfest Bike Rally Grounds 56 Taylor Road Pelham TN 37356 Contact email: hogfest_of_tn@yahoo.com Contact phone: 931-308-5500 Jimbo Lots of fun! Free Bike Games & Bike Show & Nightly Adult Contest & Costume Contest! Wet T Shirt Contest, Stripper Poles, Topless Bull Riding and much more! Live Music All Weekend Long! Free warm showers ***BYOB*** Or Beer and Ice sold on site. Party Rain or Shine. Gates open at 6AM Thursday for early set up! Events start on Friday @ 1pm. NO SUPPORT VEHICLE CHARGE. RV’s welcome, no hookups. $30 per person for entire event! Must be 21 to enter! Convenient Stores next to I-24 & Rally Site is within a mile from I-24 and easy to find. Venders Call: Weatherly - 931-808-1594
Come Join The Freedom Riders MC of Chattanooga Tennessee as they host a poker run & after party on September 7th 2013. All proceeds go to benefit The Chattanooga Community Kitchen. $10 a hand. 3 hands for $20. 50/50 drawing. $5 catered BBQ plates at the after party. Poker Run Purse Prize will be determined according to participation. Rain or Shine. Registration begins at noon. First bike out at 12:30. Last Bike out at 1:00. Last bike in at 6:00pm. Ride ends at The Freedom Riders MC Clubhouse 3012 Cummings Highway Chattanooga, TN 37419. The Chattanooga Community Kitchen is a freestanding social service agency focused on meeting needs. Our primary goal is to lessen the poverty and despair among the homeless in the City of Chattanooga and to restore dignity and self-reliance to those we serve. In all that we do, we strive to serve the physical, social and spiritual needs of the homeless and less fortunate without expectation of recompense but instead out of love and compassion for mankind. TENNESSEE STATE CMA RALLY Date: 09/13/2013 - 09/15/2013 Time: 9:00 AM Location: Montgomery Bell State Park 1000 Hotel Avenue Burns, TN 37029 Contact email: dneal23@comcast.net Contact phone: Dan 615-758-9773 A great time with lots of fun and fellowship! Montgomery Bell State Park offers a variety of accommodation options. All lodging in hotel must go through their office. Reservations: 1-800-250-8613 and 615-797-3901. More information to come.
BSM MOTORFEST 2013 Date: 09/21/2013 - 09/21/2013 Time: 9:00 AM Location: Pickwick Landing State Park Counce TN 38326 Contact email: relaxed_89@hotmail.com Contact phone: 731) 689-3135 This is one of the best upcoming shows in the region! With this year comes a new venue at the beautiful Pickwick Landing State Park located on the Tennessee River. We have room for anything and 1ST ANNUAL SSG. CHRISTOPHER W SWANSON BENEFIT & POKER RUN everything and encourage anything and everything to come! Date: 08/31/2013 - 09/02/2013 There will be Top 50, 15+ Speciality Awards, and Choice Awards! Time: 11:00 AM Along with the Car, Truck And Motorcycle Show, we will be having Location: Knoxville H-D 5800 Clinton Hwy Knoxville TN 37912 a Poker Run, 5K Run, Live MMA/Boxing Match, Live Music all day Contact email: threejimmys@yahoo.com and night, vendor booths, raffles, giveaways, Dyno-on-the-go, Kid Contact phone: 865-689-2454 activities and much more for everyone! Finish Location is Three Jimmy’s 1359 E. Parkway, Ste. F, All proceeds for BSM Motorfest benefit Cystic Fibrosis! Entry Gatlinburg, TN. Maps of draw locations will be provided along with Fee will be $20, day of show only. which includes 2 wrist bands. registration. $25 per rider. $10 per passenger. All proceeds will go Spectator fee will be $5.There will be no outside coolers and no to the SSG Christopher W. Swanson Support Charity for Veteran’s alcoholic beverages allowed! Violators will be removed with fine. & their Families Inc. It is a foundation that makes it possible for (State Park Law) wounded warriors to come to the Smoky Mountains area while they recover from combat injuries. HAPPENINGS AT THE SHED, SMOKY MOUTAIN H.D. JOHNSON CITY MOTORCYCLE DAYS Saturday July 6 Todd Snider w/Sam Lewis Date: 09/06/2013 - 09/08/2013 Saturday July 13 Cody Canada and the Departed w/Southern Drawl Time: 9:00 AM Location: John City TN Saturday July 20 Jason Isbell w/St. Paul and the Broken Bones Contact phone: (336) 643-1367 Saturday July 27 Radiolucent w/TBA All motorcycles, all tourists, all locals, all ages, all are welcome to attend this fantastic three day event Saturday August 3 Monsters of Southern Rock w/Six Shot Revival Johnson City Motorcycle Days is a First Friday Weekend Event. This Saturday August 10 Sturgill Simpson w/TBA is a family oriented event, which includes music, local businesses, in state and out of state business, motorcycle related services, Saturday August 17 Big Gun AC/DC Tribute w/Clockwork Angels motorcycle product vendors, arts & crafts vendors, food vendors, Saturday August 31 Kentucky Headhunters motorcycle displays and attractions, motorcycle rides/tours, bike shows and much more! Johnson City Motorcycle Days provides Saturday September 7 Whitey Morgan and The 78’s w/Zach Ryan the opportunity for local and non-local bands / entertainment the and The Renegades opportunity to shine in a festival atmosphere. Saturday September 14 The Bottle Rockets w/Itchy and The Hater Tots FREEDOM RIDERS MC POKER RUN Saturday September 21 James McMurtry with/ Corb Lund Band Date: 09/07/2013 - 09/08/2013 Time: 12:00 PM Location: Thunder Creek H-D 7720 Lee Highway Chattanooga TN 37421 Contact email: dnprks1@gmail.com Contact phone: 706-996-6303
July 2013
Saturday October 12 Webb Wilder w/Plow’d Saturday October 26 Bill Kirchen (of Commander Cody and his Lost Planet Airmen)
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After 35 years of marriage, a husband and wife came for counseling. When asked what the problem was, the wife went into a tirade listing every problem they had ever had in the years they had been married. On and on and on: neglect, lack of intimacy, emptiness, loneliness, feeling unloved and unlovable, an entire laundry list of unmet needs she had endured. Finally, after allowing this for a sufficient length of time, the therapist got up, walked around the desk and after asking the wife to stand, he embraced and kissed her long and passionately as her husband watched - with a raised eyebrow. The woman shut up and quietly sat down as though in a daze. The therapist turned to the husband and said, “This is what your wife needs at least 3 times a week. Can you do this?” “Well, I can drop her off here on Mondays and Wednesdays, but on Fridays, I fish.”
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In an alcohol factory the regular tester died and the director started looking for a new one to hire. A drunkard with a ragged, dirty look came to apply for the position. The director of the factory wondered how to send him away. They tested him. They gave him a glass with a drink. He tried it and said, “It’s red wine, a Muscat, three years old, grown on a north slope, matured in steel containers.” “That’s correct”, said the boss. Another glass. “It’s red wine, Cabernet, eight years old, a south A very wealthy, young, and drop-dead gorgeous woman returns western slope, oak barrels.” from a day of shopping. “Correct.” The director was astonished. He winked at his secretary She is greeted at the door by her butler, Jeeves. to suggest something. “Jeeves” she says. “Follow me to my bedroom.” She brought in a glass of urine. The alcoholic tried it. “Yes Ma’am” he replied. When they got to the bedroom she turned “It’s a blonde, 26 years old, three months pregnant, made inside the to him and office. And if you don’t give me the job, I’ll also tell who’s the father!” said, “Jeeves, I want you to take off my jacket.” “Yes Ma’am” he The boss collapsed... and the right man for the job was hired said as he immediately, on the spot. removed her jacket. “Now Jeeves, I want you to take off my blouse.” An elderly couple, who were both widowed, had been going out “Yes Ma’am.” with each other for a long time. Urged on by their friends, they “Now Jeeves, I want you to take off my skirt.” decided it was finally time to get married. “Yes Ma’am” “Now Jeeves, I want you to take off my stockings.” Before the wedding, they went out to dinner and had a long “Yes Ma’am.” conversation regarding how their marriage might work. They “Now Jeeves, I want you to take off my bra.” discussed finances, living arrangements and so on. “Yes Ma’am.” “Now Jeeves, I want you to take off my panties.” Finally, the elderly gentleman decided it was time to broach the “Yes Ma’am” subject of their physical relationship. ‘How do you feel about sex?’ “Now Jeeves, I never want to catch you wearing my clothes again he asked, rather tentatively. or you will be terminated immediately. ‘I would like it infrequently,’ she replied. “Yes Ma’am, duly noted”. The old gentleman sat quietly for a moment, adjusted his glasses, THINGS THAT MAKE YOU ASK..........WHY? leaned over towards her and whispered, is lemon juice made with artificial flavors, and dishwashing liquid ‘Is that one word or two?’ made with real lemons? Is it that doctors call what they do “practice” ? isn’t there mouse-flavored cat food? Do they sterilize the needle for lethal injections? Don’t you ever see the headline ‘Psychic Wins Lottery’? Is ‘abbreviated’ such a long word? If con is the opposite of pro, is Congress the opposite of progress?
HAPPY 4TH OF JULY TO ALL OUR BIKER FAMILY. TEACH YOUR CHILDREN WHAT THIS HOLIDAY TRULY STANDS FOR INSTEAD OF JUST A DAY FOR FIREWORKS. Peace & Love
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Make your next oil change the best change ever. Get all the dirty oil out! Sure you drained the oil pan but did you know
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Don’t mix old dirty oil with new clean oil!
Scavenger Total Oil Change System™
The safe and effective way to flush the whole system. Engineered tools and simple methods so that you can do the job yourself. No loss of oil pressure, no silly vacuum pumps, works with all oil coolers, no gimmicks. Printed instructions with photo’s, DVD and toll-free support. Built to last a lifetime so that you can make every future oil change the best change ever. Made in USA. 30-day, no hassle guarantee! The Scavenger fits the following bikes: Harley-Davidson® models from 1985-present. Except VRSC models.
See videos online of how the Scavenger works or call toll free for a free info pack.
Legal Disclaimer: Rogue Chopper is not affiliated with nor an entity of or in any way endorsed, approved, authorized or sponsored by Harley-Davidson Motorcycles, Inc., H-D Michigan, Inc., or any of its affiliates, vendors, subsidiaries or group of international companies aka “Harley-Davidson”. All third party trademarks, brands, insignias, or logos including but not limited to those of Harley-Davidson Motorcycles, used or displayed on this site are the intellectual property of their respective owners.
July 2013
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July 2013
July 2013
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OKLAHOMA: W
THUNDER ROADS OKLAHOMA
ait, I need to go to the bathroom before we leave. I don’t have one on my house anymore.” I heard this while standing in a Carney, Okla., church overf owing with women, men and children bearing shovels, paper towels, flashlights, water, diapers, trash bags, snacks and gloves. I’d never heard that before nor ever dreamed would hear it. However, millions of us had never experienced what we saw, heard and felt in the days following the Oklahoma tornados on May 19th and 20th.
My mind is still reeling from the week we have just experienced. I can’t imagine what those who were directly affected by loss of life, home and normalcy must be feeling. The scene being played out live on the television was horrifying. Millions watched the tornado drop from the sky onto the ground and bounce back to the sky, only to return to the ground to begin its 17 mile path of destruction through Moore, Okla.All I could do was pray, text people I knew were in its path, call, pray, text and pray some more. Then I began to cry. I didn’t know what else to do. I could only sit idly by, watching it unfold on television while safe in my home 50 miles away. As the twister carved its path, I could picture what parts of town were being destroyed. I called Fort Thunder Harley-Davidson. They answered! Frantically, I described the mile-wide monster lurking three miles from their building, urging them to take cover immediately. Then I watched and prayed as the tornado passed over them. Soon, the weatherman who showed a fl It was hours before my texts began to get answered. The television finally showed the Fort Thunder building again and I saw my friends’ building was standing! Although relieved to see they were spared, I felt a deep sadness for the other lives and homes torn, tattered and lost. Within a few hours, friends began calling me to fidson to ask. Their answer was a quick, “YES!” As the sun began shining through the clouds onto the tornado torn state, I was making calls to dealerships and people. I received a call from Soldiers for Jesus’ Mike. He said that the Oklahoma CoC Christian Unity Mobile Resource Team, Coalition of Independent Riders (C.O.I.R) and CoC US Defenders wanted to partner with me. I wasn’t even sure how he knew I was considering it, but there was the divine call that started the ball rolling. I knew with their help this was possible. In what seemed like minutes, “Stick”, C.O.I.R., US Defenders Oklahoma Unit Commander, was on the phone with me preparing to set up at Harley-Davidson World in OKC. Did he have the ok? “Sure.” I said. Jim Strickland, general manager of Harley-Davidson World had agreed to let us set up a collection and distribution center in the parking lot. BAM! We were ready to help. Two awnings were erected, some emails, and phone calls made. Donations started rolling in to Hideout Harley-David48
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Torn Tattered and rebuilding son, Forman Harley-Davidson and Harley-Davidson World. Fort Thunder Harley-Davidson was cleaning up the debris around their place, but they would be a distribution point for ground zero in Moore when ready. Their store is located yards away from the destroyed Medical Center (see story this issue The Rumble Was Moore Than Thunder). The managers of Myers-Duren HarleyDavidson, who had been out of town, called the next day and asked us to add them as a collection point as well. With all of them on board, we began a barrage of emails, Facebook posts and phone calls to hel, Shawnee and Carney were all heavily affected. Many homes were destroyed and lives had been lost. The days that follow are a blur. Carl Woods of BikeTow jumped into action on Tuesday. Numerous people helped by donating time, supplies, energy, trucks, trailers, mattresses, boxes, tape, tents, awnings and more. Items appeared immediately at our collection centers. A few of us made late-night, cross-state treks to distribute and transfer supplies. I’m not sure “Stick” ever slept. I do know he gave the boots off of his own feet to a victim. He told me the victim drove up in a car half smashed by debris, no windows in it and he was wearing goggles to drive. He shopped for a few items and left. The next day he came back to shop for more. “Stick” was so taken back by the fact the man’s foot was cut open and he was wearing a pair of duct taped r “Stick” a new pair of Harley-Davidson boots donated thanks to Forman Harley-Davidson. Early Thursday morning our compound in OKC was torn to shreds by wind. We were scrambling to Friday came with new challenges. A collection was taken up for a woman who needed a freezer to store a trunk load of frozen meat she had been given to feed her family of hed home stood amidst the wreckage of 18 neighbors who lost absolutely everything. Keith told us “the hand of God protected our home so we could rescue and help our elderly neighbors.” Saturday was a day of donation at Forman Harley-Davidson. Then I went to Moore. It was the 4-foot-tall piles of wreckage except the looming outline of the debris of the Tower Plaza School where seven precious children had lost their lives. The scene was eerie and took my breath away. It was impossible to keep from weeping. Sunday brought us to the small community of Dale, OK. A tent city had been set up where a mobile home park once stood. We were able to set up a temporary kitchen with the help of Papa’s Leather, Lowe’s of Stillwater and C.O.I.R member, Hell The response from bikers and the community was amazing and allowed us to give truckloads of items directly to the victims. We had boots on the ground taking action. We want to thank everyone who helped us make this possible for so many in need. At press time, I didn’t have the complete list, but we will do a proper thank you in our July issue. Oklahoma is tattered and torn, but today we rebuild with partners around our state and across the nation. God Bless America! July 2013
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TRIBUTE TO
FERNANDO 1954 – 2013
By Mechele MacDaniel
On June 12, 2013 the biker community lost a dear friend. He loved to ride and he loved his biker family. We did a beautiful ride with 23 bikes to the funeral home on Sat at 6pm for visitation. We were not sure what to expect as none of us really knew his family that well. Everyone in the funeral home was standing outside waiting for us and as we walked in we were greeted with open arms and hugs. It was an amazing surprise and greatly appreciated. After paying our respects to Ferni and the family, they asked us to line up all the bikes so that they could take photos. Then they asked that we make 2 turns around the grounds in tribute so that they could take more photos. They were so impressed and grateful that we came. The funeral home said they had never ever seen anything like it and they were blown away. The service on Monday was beautiful. His oldest daughter Rachel, who he was so VERY close to, brought his bike to the funeral home and put it next to the casket. They had a pair of his boots, that he NEVER wore as he said they were to hot and heavy, sitting on the casket with a bouquet of wild flowers in each and his helmet and leather jacket lying next to them. They played Michael Jackson, Led Zeppelin, which the preacher commented on saying that this is a first for me, I don’t think I have EVER heard Led Zeppelin played at a funeral before, and Whitney Houston music and had 3 different preachers, his wife, and his younger daughter speak about him. They also asked his biker family, who they referred to often, to say a few words. It was hard but a couple of people he rode with said a few words. The building was packed. After the service the bikes followed the hearse around the grounds so that Ferni would have one last ride. His family said they feel like they got to know his other family, the one they knew very little about, his biker family. They referred to us in that way ALL through out the service and after. All of it was just beautiful and totally Fernando! He has a wonderful family who we, his biker family, will continue to pray for. R.I.P. July 2013
ThunderRoadsTennessee.com
51
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