Thunder Roads Texas - February 2012 by Thunder Roads Texas

The MOST Comprehensive Event Listing Published in Texas!

Introducing the 2012 Reader Rides Program

February 2012 ThunderRoadsTexas.com

Also Inside:

 The Passion of the Tiger:

Texas Law Tigers  Painted Churches of Texas

Contents 

February 2012 On the Cover 26 Points Across Texas: 2012 Program Introduction This Month 16

The Passion of the Tiger: Texas Law Tigers

Regular Features 6

From the Editor

From the Road

PigTrails: Haulin’ Ass

Two Wheel Thunder TV Review: Titan Lifts

Pink Thunder: Beating Riding Weather Blues New Contributor: Shelly “Cricket” Beatty

Ride Map: Painted Churches of Texas

30 ThunderCam 32 Joker’s Wild

Resources 19

Event Listing

CENTER - Pull-Out February 2012 Calendar 35

24 34

Biker Friendly Listing

On the cover: Points Across Texas photo submissions from various readers over the last two years. More than 2,000 pictures have been received during these two years... and we’re looking for another great program year! Points Across Texas graphic and cover by Top of Mind Marketing - Shelly Horan.

OWNERS Bob Cooney, CEO/Photography ThunderRoadsBob@yahoo.com Shelly “TX Dragonfly” Horan, Editor Shelly@ThunderRoadsTexas.com

ADVERTISING SALES

FEATURE WRITERS

Thunder Roads Texas Main Office 281.866.8149 ThunderRoadsBob@yahoo.com

“Crazy Al” - PigTrails; Peggy Beck - Two Wheel Thunder TV Reviews; and sharing Pink Thunder, each sumbitting quarterly: Joni “Even Meaner” Kelton (Jan/Apr/Jul/Oct), Brandy “Tex” Valdez (Feb/ May/Aug/Sep), & Terri Williams (TMRA2; Mar/Jun/Sep/Dec)

Laura Mae Benson - Sales Manager Laura.ThunderRoadsMagazine@gmail.com 979.481.9642

CORRESPONDENTS

Bill “Shovelhead” Barnes - Houston ThunderRoadsBill@yahoo.com 321.960.6161 Bonnie Estes - Austin/Hill Country AngelWing1555@yahoo.com 512.673.6679 Shelly “Cricket” Beatty - Hill Country CricketGOC@yahoo.com 210.445.2477

Thunder Roads Texas Bob Cooney & Shelly Horan State Edition Owners 4631 Cashel Glen Drive Houston, TX 77069 281.866.8149 ThunderRoadsTexas.com Layout & Design Shelly Horan Top of Mind Marketing 832.585.4045 Top.of.Mind.Marketing@gmail.com Thunder Publishing, LLC Toni & Brian Shearon National Founders 1528 Matlock Drive Chapmansboro, TN 37035 615.792.0040 ThunderRoadsMagazine.com Thunder Roads Magazine® is Trade Marked and may not be used in any way without consent from Thunder Publishing. Thunder Roads Magazine of Texas is published by Thunder Roads Texas. 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®, Thunder Publishing, or Thunder Roads Texas. Publisher does not promote the abuse of alcohol or other drugs. Ride & live responsibly. Thank you. Thunder Roads Magazine®, Thunder Publishing, and Thunder Roads Texas. Thunder Roads Texas is a wholly separate entity from Thunder Publishing LLC and Thunder Roads Magazine editions in other states. As such, content that runs in other states’ editions has no relation to the content in Thunder Roads Texas. Unless specifically stated, Thunder Roads Texas does not endorse, and is not responsible for, any content in other Thunder Roads Magazine editions.

Linda Morris - Houston; Joyce Siegert - D/FW; Dean Downey - Amarillo; Linda Nilsson - East Texas; Shelly “Cricket” Beatty - Spring Branch; Randy McCamey - West Texas; Don Brewer - Livingston; Donny Phillips LaPorte; Mike “Biker” Boone - Houston/Gulf Coast... Jason English - East Texas; Gwen Tucker - Central Texas; Don McGovern - Houston; Travis Jacobs; Houston; MORE COMING ONBOARD!

It’s hard to believe I have to write another one of these already! I thought 2011 went by fast… 2012 seem right on course to go by even faster! So this month, we introduce our 2012 Points Across Texas reader rides program. Once again, it’s made to be EASY! Just ride around Texas, using our qualified destination list to help you plan your trips, and send in 10 pictures/destinations to receive a FREE patch. We are looking at adding level awards, depending on participation levels the first couple of months. And we will, once again, offer a drawing at the end of the year. Check out page 26 for details. We are pleased to offer some information and background to our local Texas Law Tigers. Read about them on page 16 and find out what you should do in the event you are in or witness a motorcycle accident. They even gave $10,000 to two observant youths in Colorado for chasing down a hit-and-run drunk driver, where a motorcyclist was killed. In Pink Thunder (page 14), we welcome a new Feature Writer, Shelly “Cricket” Beatty. Located in Boerne/San Antonio area and very involved with the Gypsy Motorcycle Club, we are thrilled to have another avid worman rider involved with the magazine. She shares the space with Joni “Even Meaner” Kelton and Terri Williams (TMRA2). “Cricket” will bring us specifically women-rider-related content. So check out her first article for Thunder Roads Texas!! We are still working on 2012 plans, adding correspondents and sales folks to help us, and looking at some new opportunities. If you’re interested in being a part of our TEAM, contact me and we get can get you started! The Alamo Gypsy’s are hosting their annual Valentine’s Day Massacre Rally (February 10-12) and we’re pleased to be involved! In March, we are on board with Blowout for his first annual Biker Bash (March 16-18) and will return to San Antonio for our fourth year of sponsoring the South Texas Motorcycle Show (March 16-18). If you have an event and are looking for sponsors, please let us know. We have packages for every budget and type of event. The reach of Thunder Roads Texas motorcycle magazine has grown!. We reach 60,000 impressions/month via the print version, 120,000 hits on our website/month; 20,000 impressions/ month through our weekly Web-zine email, have more than 6,500 “likes” on our Facebook page, reaching an estimated 2 million impressions through friends and families; and now we add the NEW Thunder Roads Mobile App (stats to come soon). Overall, this means we’re reaching the VAST MAJORITY of the Texas motorcycle market. We do it free to the reader and very reasonably priced to the advertiser. Readers – please visit our advertisers… and make sure they know you saw them in Thunder Roads Texas. Advertisers – we thank you for your support – we are in business because of YOU. Businesses – you can’t spend any advertising dollar to reach the Texas motorcycle market in a more effective way than with Thunder Roads Texas. We are the ONLY monthly motorcycle magazine for Texas, by Texans, and about Texas! And... we dont’ care what you ride, your religion, your race, your age, your gender... none of that nonsense! We only care that you ride, focusing on what folks do when out-and-about. We bring you the most comprehensive motorcycle-related event listing published in the State of Texas - bar-none! Distributed through more than 200 locations throughout Texas, through our website, through our Facebook page, through smart phones using our Mobile App and Issuu.com... no one can say they’re reaching more readers - no one! Here’s wishing you all a loving Valentine’s Day and safe (but way fun!) Mardi Gras celebrations. Ride safe... and ride with THUNDER! Shelly “TX Dragonfly” Horan Editor / Owner Shelly@ThunderRoadsTexas.com

Find us, Befriend us, Follow us, Join us!

Owner, Top of Mind Marketing Top.of.Mind.Marketing@gmail.com

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Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

February 2012

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The Wreaths Across America Article (Jan 2012) Hello Shelly, This is Jenny “Jinx” Jones with Women in the Wind, Bayou City Sisters.

Help in the Country

LOVE the article. Thank you for publishing our article but you see I can’t take all the credit. That article was written by my road sister... Nancy “Parched Warnke”. I merely helped her fine tune and submit it to Laura...

Most bikers who live in Houston like to get out of the city and ride through the back woods. When you leave town and break down it’s a long walk home. We do have some bike shops around east Texas that go out of their way to help. The190 Bike Corral (936-646-3866) is five miles east of Onalaska on 190 East. There you will find Preston Mercile. He is an American Legion rider and road captain, and he knows what can happen on the road. They do minor repairs, such as tires, LED lights, oil changes, and sell used bikes and golf carts. I have been on rides with Preston and we run across bikers with flat tire and other problems from time to time. Preston will take the time to go back to his shop to help out a fellow biker and give up his chance to ride. He is very reasonable in his prices no matter what day of the week it is. Even though he is closed on Sunday and Monday if you give him a call, or anyone else that knows him, he will help out fellow motorcycle riders. Another place is Texas V Twin, (936-594-4425) owned by Bert Pryor. He is located seven miles north of Onalaska on Hwy 356 North. Bert’s shop is a full service bike shop. He has been a top notch technician for 10 years on Harley’s. He has also built a lot of bikes. He took first place this year at the Lone Star Rally at The Rat Hole and 3rd in the All Star round up. When you are up in the area of Onalaska or Livingston and you might need a little help it is nice to have a couple of guys and fellow bikers that have the ability to work on all kinds of motorcycles not just Harley’s. Or when you are out and about and need a helping hand these are the kind of guys that don’t mind if you just stop by to say “hi” or to have a beer. More people gather at the 190 Corral just to gossip and talk about where they have been or some of the rides that the guys have gone on or where there would be a good route to ride. A lot of men and women both gather at the Corral to take off for a Sunday ride. So if you are around and don’t really have a specific ride that you are going on stop and ride with the bunch. Most of the time there is someone there fixing to take off. Ride Safe, Biker Don

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Bob\Shelly, We were able to donate $80,000.00 to Camp For All this year from the Deacons of Deadwood. If anyone wants information about the Deacons of Deadwood Motorcycle Club and/or the Annual Charity Ball, visit DeaconsOfDeadwood.com. Thanks, David E. Youngblood

Have something to share? Send Letters to the Editor via email to Shelly@ThunderRoadsTexas.com or snail mail to 4631 Cashel Glen Dr, Houston, TX 77069.

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February 2012

ThunderRoadsTexas.com

EVENT

Haulin’ Ass... hat in the world are you going to do on a motorcycle in the middle of winter? Should you put it in storage? How about put it in the shop for maintenance? Maybe shine it up real good so it looks awesome sitting in the garage. I say hell no to all of the above! I live in Texas and yesterday it was 70 degrees in the middle of January! I am going for a ride! Now I have to admit, most bikers I know are pretty fickle when it comes to the weather. Comfort seems to rule their ride. Too cold, windy, or a chance of rain and you will find them tooling down the road in the cage. This is such a sad story. Last time I checked they make incredible riding gear. Everything from full body armor to electric heated gloves that plug into the electrical system of your motorcycle. Life is just too short to miss out on the simple pleasures in life. You don’t have to go for the butt burner 400 mile ride. My wife and I got out last week with a very simple plan that led to a full day of fun… antique stores! I know I am a biker. I realize I am a man. But this is one of our favorite things to do on our day off. I try to find two or three shops around 30 miles apart. Then look at the roads between each place and then get creative with my route. This way we still get some quality time on the bike and about the time the chill of the winter air starts to kick in it is time to shop! We are not your ordinary antique hunters. We try to find that one special thing that just screams trailer park! Here is a good example. Hanging in our kitchen is the head of a bear. Not a real one, more like ceramic. He has a stick in his mouth and on the stick are hooks to hang your keys on! You have to love it! I think my favorite purchase to date would have to be our deer’s Butt! That’s right, I said deer’s butt. Most of the folks I know would have a fine stuffed deer’s head and antlers hanging in that perfect spot over the fireplace. Well it just does not work that way for my wife and me. The story behind this purchase is even funnier than the butt itself. Let’s start this story off with a bang! It’s Valentines’ Day around two years ago. Yes, Valentine’s day! We were out for a ride on the bike heading down to Granbury to enjoy the day. Granbury is full of great antique shops in the town square. We love this place. I also figured while we were doing our search for that one colossal purchase I would

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have my own hidden agenda to get something special for my sweetheart for Valentines! Paula rounded the corner at one of the shops and there it was. Hanging on the wall was a stuffed deer’s butt. We laughed for a moment then my wife said “I want it”. I was shocked! For real? She was dead set on getting this thing. I was surprised because I am the one usually picking out the thing that no one would ever buy. Then we looked at the price and damn near had a cow! They wanted 80 bucks for this thing! I was certain that we were now the “butt” of this joke if we actually paid that much for this thing. Then my wife said something that would make the King of the Trailer park himself proud! I have to quote her here just to believe it myself. She said “It can be my Valentine’s present” And I said “Shut the hell up” Oh my god! I was stunned! I told her that we should look around and certainly find something better to buy as a Valentine’s present. We looked around for a few minutes but there was no talking her out of it! I asked her, “What would our friends think of me when we tell them this was what I was giving you on this special day?” Paula said our friends would think you have a really cool wife! So I finally told Paula she could have the deer’s butt. I realized this thing was not going to fit anywhere on the motorcycle. I was sure that this would be my way out of this purchase. Not a chance! The coolest wife in the world said, “I will carry that ass all the way home!” Needless to say the way home was nothing but a blast! You can just imagine all the looks we got and horns honking. This was one of the greatest days of my life. And we did it all in the middle of winter. We did it all on a motorcycle. And I absolutely have

the coolest wife that ever walked the earth! Paula you are my soul mate and my Trailer Park Queen! Find the time in your life to take advantage of the little things! Make the most of the time that you have on this planet. Try hard not to bitch and complain. Don’t worry too much about how other people see you. Get out and do things. Life doesn’t always have to be a grand adventure. Sometimes a simple trip to an Antique store can complete your life! Get on your bike and go for a ride any chance you get. Be proud of the state you live in. Texas rocks! I can’t say enough about the love that my wife and I are able to share together! I thank God for the day she walked into my life! I love you Paula!

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Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

February 2012

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The Titan 1500 Lift Makes Life Better! fter the holidays there are still plenty of special occasions that we all encounter. You will look for a gift for that special someone and wonder what to buy, that both male and female could want or use for all types of situations. Well I have found it! Motorcycle accessories are not always things that go on the bike. Sometimes you need something that helps the work on their bike. The Titan 1500 XLT Lift is a sturdy, well built lift that fits in the category of accessories for the owner. Designed for the do-it-your-self mechanic, the small mechanic shop, or even the full professional garage or dealer. This lift isn’t for the person who has limited space or for the one that just doesn’t want to get down on their knees just to clean their bike. This lift is the one you need if you are working on your bike or up to 1500 lbs of ATV, lawnmower, or anything else you feel a need to wrench on. It is really a great lift for building your own chopper, too! Last year I received a Titan Lift and have used it every single week. My son uses it to clean, work on, and service his bike and ATVs. My daughter and I use it to put the riding lawnmower on to clean and do general maintenance that it needs after use. This 1,500 lb. lift gives you a large working platform to help you perform maintenance and repairs on your heavier ATVs, motorcycles, and other such vehicles. The Titan HDML-1500XLT lift is a great addition to any enthusiast’s garage. When it is all put together along with the side and front extensions, it measures 102 inches long and 52 inches wide. It is built with Heavy Duty 12 gauge steel, then powder coated for a durable finish. It also has built in retractable casters, so when you need to move it around on the concrete floor, it glides very well even when the motorcycle is loaded onto the lift. When the casters are up, the lift is firmly planted on the floor and will not move when you are working. There is a single hydraulic lifting cylinder, with accompanying dual function power unit; air or hydraulic foot-pump operation; and automatic safety locking mechanisms that prevent the lift from lowering until you are ready.

It comes with everything you need to start working right away. It has a front wheel vise that holds it securely in place; eye bolts to ratchet the bike down; all the extensions and ramps you need; and the air/hydraulic pump unit. FEATURES • • • • • • •

Perfect for servicing motorcycles and ATV’s Built-in retractable casters Lift can be moved when loaded Automatic safety locks Heavy 12-gauge steel construction Single hydraulic lifting cylinder Dual function power unit. Air or hydraulic foot-pump operation • Powder coat finish • Two rear wheel drop outs for back wheel maintenance

INCLUDES: • • • • • • •

Front Table Extension Side Extensions Standard Rear Wheel Drop Out Roller Plate Drop Out 3 Detachable Short Ramps Detachable Motorcycle Ramp Air/Hydraulic Pump Unit

Of course they have other lifts for other necessities in life too. They carry a nice selection for all your maintenance needs, such as the Motocross with 300 pound lift capacity; a 1000 pound capacity mini lift that raises the bike 16 inches great for tire maintenance; motorcycle dollies, chocks, ramps; ratchet straps and anything else you need for moving, lifting, working on your bike. They also take care of your needs for PWC, Automobiles, and ATV’s Getting just a little older every day has disadvantages. However the Titan Lift has been one of the greatest gifts I’ve ever received. The easiness of just “one step” to lift and lower any object allows no strain on the lower back. Another thing I really like is that it doesn’t take up a lot of space in my garage, leaving more room to organize other items I have. I hope you will check into these lifts. There are so many sizes to choose from to fit your individual needs. Did you notice that all the operative words are “NEED”? Check them out; you will be glad you did: TitanLifts.com.

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EVENT

Beating the Riding Weather Blues Shelly “Cricket” Beatty

s I look out my window at the first glimpse of sun in days, I wonder just how cold it is out there. I’m sure this cold weather riding season is early and will last through February. Some will leather up or throw on some rain gear just to ride. You are more likely to find me by the fire at home. So, what’s a girl to do when riding is out of the question? What women are known to do best, go shopping! It’s time to catch up on the upcoming spring fashion for bikers. So, I stopped in at the local Harley dealership of course. Yes, I’m guilty of loving Harley clothes, but after all they tend to wear well when riding. So, I will use that excuse to own so many. Some, of my favorites for riding that Harley make are the thin, but long sleeved shirts. I wear them year round, so for the extra money you spend on a name brand shirt, it gets worn. When I checked in to see what Harley would be opening the spring season with I found out I had to wait. March is when they will be putting the new season inventory on their shelves. Another favorite of mine that Harley makes are their shoes. Usually, you can find them in a local biker clothing store besides Harley stores, but this year I’m being told they will only be offered at Harley dealerships. So, hit up your local stores for their clearance sales! My other favorite is their jackets. They have such a large selection. Last year pink was the hot color for Harley. I’m dying to see what this year will be. Of course there is always a large selection of the famous black and orange. Harley isn’t the only place to shop. Don’t forget your local bike shops! A lot of them now have a retail side to them. Remember when you buy local you help your local businesses stay in business. So, the next time you want to stop for just a pair of gloves because you lost one mysteriously, they will be there for you! For the internet lovers I’ve found a few sites to check out hotleathers.com, leatherup.com, ladybikerstuff.com (everything from custom decals to the pinkest of pink

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leathers), foulmouthshirts.com (attitude shirts, the site is best view by adults only), dirtygoatees.com (a Thunder Roads Texas advertiser), otomix.com (here’s one you probably never thought of, a work out clothing line. Check out the burnout section.) Let me change gears here. Don’t forget to shop for your bike when you are not riding! I mentioned the local bike shops earlier. This is their slow season, dealerships included. You are probably not riding much due to weather, so get that bike in the shop and have it ready to ride, not waiting in line for service when the riding season truly begins. Also, if you stopped by and signed guest books and such at the local shops, most probably sent you holiday cards offering discounts for oil changes and more. A lot of shops also hold their own events right there in their parking lots. Anything from swap meets to annual parties. If you are looking for things to do or a savings and you didn’t get any mailings make sure to stop by all your favorites this year and get on their mailing list.

helmet or a mask, but also because at stop lights I can pull it down slightly and not fog up my sun glasses. So, have fun shopping and gearing up for the spring riding season!

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Nope, I’m not done shopping yet! I spent some time looking into better skin care management! What I mean is, I don’t currently have a windshield on my bike. So, what am I doing to beat the wind and weather during the last of the cold season? I have found there is no replacement for covering your face of course. My favorite new item is as simple as a bandana, but it’s made out of 100% polyester rather than cotton and instead of tying it you have Velcro. I put it on after my sun glasses over my nose and ears then tuck the tail down into the front of my jacket. This way it keeps my neck warm too. After that I add my helmet. I like it because I don’t have wear a full face

ThunderRoadsTexas.com

EVENT

Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

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The Passion of the Tiger The Law Tigers of Texas

he tiger is a symbol for power, passion, and ferocity. It is no wonder the success of the Law Tigers! Currently in 11 states, this network of lawyers is dedicated providing the motorcycle community with effective legal assistance before and after motorcycle accidents.

Let’s start with the “before”. They start with education. On their website (LawTigers.com) you’ll find various legal and motorcycle-related resources, can report an accident, register your medical information in the event of an accident, find an attorney… and what they’re best known for, obtain a FREE benefit card. You can request one be mailed to you, which will include one for your wallet and one for your key chain. Or you can download the card and print it at home. The card outlines what the Law Tigers offer you, up front: TollFree, 24-Hour Accident Hotline; No Recovery, No Fee for Personal Injury Claims; $10,000 Hit-and-Run Reward; $10,000 Bike Theft Recovery; Free Legal Advice for All Motorcycle Matters; Free Representation for Motorcycle Damage Claims; and Free Online Registration of Emergency Medical Information. Let’s highlight a really cool program, a $10,000 rewards for hit-and-run accidents and for bike theft recovery. Just this past December, Law Tigers awarded $10,000 to two teenagers (each received $5,000) in Colorado. The two young men witnessed 25 year old Efrain Villegas (drunk) hit Debbie Pyatock and her fiancé Jon Brand. The couple was riding their motorcycle through Denver when Villegas collided with them and then

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By Shelly Horan, Editor/Owner took off. Brand died shortly after arriving at a local hospital and Pyatock suffered many injuries, not to mention the loss of her fiancé. Jason Perez and Stephen Sanchez witnessed the accident and took off after him. They chased him into a dead end alley, where he abandoned the card with his jacket and identification. Thanks to the teens, Villegas was later arrested and plead guilty of vehicular homicide while under the influence and was sentenced to nine years in prison. Debbie Pyatock nominated the two teens for the Law Tigers reward. The best case scenario is to ride without incident. The Law Tigers website offers advice before you ride. There are links to various motorcycle safety sites for riding courses and online education programs, online articles by various Law Tiger

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attorneys related to riding safely, information about motorcycle and helmet laws in the different states, and the online emergency information registration. The latter offers a place to put important medical and contact information in the event you are involved in an accident that incapacitates you. While we know you’ve probably heard/seen it before, it bears repeating – what to do in the event of a motorcycle accident. Law Tigers strongly suggests training – both riding and accident first aid. There are many classes for both offered around the state. For first aid after an accident, the normal CPR classes won’t do. We (Thunder Roads) suggest contacting the ASMI (Accident Scene Management, Inc.; AccidentScene.net) for courses designed specifically for handling injuries from a motorcycle accident. Victims in a motorcycle accident might be entitled to damages and compensation, such as medical expenses, cost to repair or replace the motorcycle, compensation for pain and suffering, compensation for loss of wages resulting from the accident, or, in the event of a fatality, wrongful death. Farrar & Ball, based in Houston, are Law Tigers in Texas. They assist bikers all across the state. They are riders themselves, so they understand what is important to motorcyclists. When asked why they do it… they simply say, “Because we’re good at it.” The Texas Law Tigers

Steps to do at the scene of a motorcycle accident • Secure the Scene – Remain there until help arrives, unless you require immediate medical attention. Check on others involved. Call an ambulance and police. Cordon off the scene from traffic. • Obtain Information from Driver(s) – Get contact and insurance information for all involved and contact information from any potential witnesses. are solid, successful trial attorneys that also handle product liability, serious injury, wrongful death, and business litigation. Their philosophy is to prepare for trial before even filing a suit. They’re aggressive and effective. For example, last year, they won a 33-million dollar verdict against a multi-national tire company. They’re just what a biker down needs! This top-of-the-line firm doesn’t care how big or small the case may be. They simply believe in providing the best representation to riders possible. Aside from helping in the case of injury/death from an accident, they also assist with issues involving insurance companies and the discrepancy that often exists between repair costs and what the insurer pays. This, they do for FREE. Law Tigers Farrar & Ball are a big part of Texas’ riding community. They sponsor events such as the Republic of Texas (ROT) Rally and the Lone Star Rally and can be seen at events of all sizes across the state. Be sure to visit their booth for SWAG (free stuff!)… and, if you don’t have one already, a FREE benefit card!

Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

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• Making Comments and Statements – Do not discuss details or make comments to anyone other than the investigating officers. Do not admit liability to anyone. If an injury is involved, reserve your statements for your Law Tigers attorney Get contact and incident information from the officer. If you are arrested – do not resist and do not make any statement until you contact your attorney. • Notes and Pictures – While things are still ‘fresh’, make notes including where and how it occurred, road and weather conditions, what forms of traffic control and road signage are visible and draw sketches or take pictures of the scene, before anything is moved. Be sure to get location of vehicles, skid marks, and other physical evidence likely to disappear. • Notify Insurance Company – Call your insurance company as soon as you can. If you do not contact them immediately, they may deny your claim. Do not make any statements (aside from facts) until you consult your Law Tigers attorney. • Insurance Claims – Any claims against you should be referred to your insurance company. Do not pay or promise to pay or sign anything until consulting your Law Tigers attorney. • Contact Your Attorney – Call Law Tigers (information is provided on your FREE benefit card) if you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident for a free consultation.

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EVENTS Page 18

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ThunderRoadsTexas.com

Event Listing

The MOST comprehensive motorcycle event listing published in the State of Texas!

Annual Fish Fry Fundraiser TMRA2.org Dallas Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

MARCH

Around the Bend TWTex.com (calendar) Terlingua Region: Big Bend

Texas Independence Day Rally HOTRally.com Groesbeck Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

Jalapeno Bike Rally & Bike Run JalapenoFest.org Laredo Region: South Texas Metro: Laredo

9-18

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RDA Auto & Bike Show RockdaleDowntownAssociation.com Rockdale Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Killeen/Temple Daytona Bike Week DaytonaBikeWeek.com Daytona, FL

9th Annual Chilly Willu Fun Run 713.501.2581 Montgomery Region: Piney Woods Metro: Houston

3rd Annual Spring HOG Benefit Run BrazosportHOG.org Angleton Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston

Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

Bikers’ Lifestyle Expo TexasScooter.com Fort Worth Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth Great bargains on motorcycle parts! Held at the Will Rogers Complex. Admission only $8 adults; $5 kids (5-14) & Military; Kids under 5 FREE. Lots of vendors! Booth space goes fast, so reserve today. Only $40 for 10x10 space and includes one admission. Mail payment to Texas Scooter Times, 124 West Main St, Itasca, TX 76055. Payment must be received one week in advance. Walk-in vendors are welcome, but beware… reserve early to guarantee space.

Thunder Roads Texas BIKE NIGHT ThunderRoadsTexas.com Houston Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston Our monthly (third Thursday) biker party with a few hundred of our closest friends! Held at Concert Pub North (2470 FM 1960 West, Houston, 77069. Co-hosted by the Outlaw Dave Show. Live music with no cover or drink minimum, drink specials (big ass beer night!), vendors, stage games, door prizes, and MORE! LARGE reserved motorcycleonly parking, with plenty of cage parking, too. Rain or shine… the BEST and longest continually held bike night in Houston!

Swap Meet TexasScooter.com Humble Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston Great bargains on motorcycle parts! Held at the Humble Civic Center, just northeast of Houston. Admission only $8 adults; $5 kids (5-14) & Military; Kids under 5 FREE. Lots of vendors! Booth space goes fast, so reserve today. Only $40 for 10x10 space and includes one admission. Mail payment to Texas Scooter Times, 124 West Main St, Itasca, TX 76055. Payment must be received one week in advance. Walk-in vendors are welcome, but beware… reserve early to guarantee space.

Monster Energy Supercross SupercrossOnline.com Arlington Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

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Bloody Valentine Block Party JavelinaHarley.com Boerne Region: Hill Country Metro: San Antonio

4th Annual Brandi Sander Scholarship Fundraiser 830.822.4478/210.669.0885 Spring Branch Region: Hill Country Metro: San Antonio

8th Annual Chili Cook Off 903.707.3129 Kilgore Region: Piney Woods Metro: Longview

5 10-12 17-18

35th Annual St Valentine’s Day Massacre Rally MassacreRally.com Boerne Region: Hill Country Metro: San Antonio The Alamo City Gypsy Motorcycle Club invite you to join their party! Held at the Kendall County Fairgrounds in Boerne. Live bands, with Two Tons of Steel headlining Saturday night. Saturday Fun Run, Children’s Field Events, Exotic Bike Exhibit, Silent Auction and this year… you could win a 2012 Harley-Davidson Street Bob. All registrations include a FREE entry for the drawing. The drawing will be held Saturday evening before the headliner takes the stage. Winner does not need to be present to win. Registration is open NOW and closes February 1, 2012. Adult $28; Kids 13-17 $10; RV site $10. Sponsored by Thunder Roads Texas!

Central Texas Motorsports Swap Meet MotorSportsSwap.com Killeen Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Killeen/Temple

South Texas Motorcycle Show TXBikeShow.com San Antonio Region: Hill Country Metro: San Antonio This is the organizers welcome title sponsor, O’Reilly Auto Parts and the show will be held in conjunction with the San Antonio Autorama! Featuring an ISCA-sanctioned bike show. $50/ entry, includes ISCA membership. Also returning, the popular STXM Stunt Competition. See stunters from across the states give you their best! Also… live music, vendors, and more! Buy tickets now $15 for adults; Kids under 15 FREE – good all weekend long! Free parking for motorcycles, with a special services section for oil changes, new tires, accessory installation and more. Sponsored by Thunder Roads Texas! Blowouts Biker Bash BlowoutsBikerBash.com Hitchcock Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston Registration is now open for Blowout’s first annual biker rally & party. Bike games; special contests, including best leprechaun nighty contest; best dressed leprechaun; best St Patty’s Day themed campsite. Live music all weekend, with headliners Dimitri’s Rail (Friday) and John Eipperson & Driving Bind (Saturday). Adult rally; 21 & up only. Held at the Galveston County Fairgrounds. $30 weekend pass includes FREE tent camping. $100 Self-contained RV sites include 2 FREE weekend passes. Sponsored by Thunder Roads Texas! 3rd Annual Horseman’s Grill Poker Run TheHorsemansGrillAndSaloon.com Weslaco Region: South Texas Metro: McAllen/Edinburg

Continued on Page 22... February 2012

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2012 Motorcycle Safety Forum LookLearnLive.org Bryan/College Station Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Bryan/College Station

FEBRUARY m

Monday

Tuesday

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GI Joe Day

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

5 Superbowl XLVI Sunday

Sunday

President’s Day (observed)

2012 Motorcycle Safety Forum Bryan/College Station

Leap Year Day

Ash Wednesday

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Thunder Roads Texas BIKE NIGHT Houston

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International Sword Swallowers Day

March 2012

My Way Day

Bikers’ Lifestyle Expo Fort Worth

Multiple-day events appear on the first day of event. For details on these and other events, see our Event Listing, Page 23.

Calendar Sponsored by Walker Texas Lawyer * 713.552.1117 * WalkerTexasLawyer.com

Mardi Gras

Valentine’s Day

Read ing the Bathtub Day

St Valentine’s Day Massacre Rally Boerne

28-Apr 1

Arizona Bike Week AZBikeWeek.com Scottsdale, AZ

29-Apr 1

EvenT Listing Thunder in the Hill Country BikerRalliesOfTexas.com Bandera Region: Hill Country Metro: San Antonio Mansfield Park. Bike show, biker games, wet T-shirt contest, naughty nighty contest, tattoo contest, burn-out pit, concerts, and tons of vendors. FREE tent camping with entrance. Onsite RV camping (with and without hook-ups). Only $35 per person for the weekend. Pre-register online and receive a FREE event T-shirt upon check-in. No one under 18 admitted. Visit the website for more information or call 409.995.0073.

Basic Listing is FREE.

EVENTS

Upgrade to Premium for only $15/event! Email: Events@ThunderRoadsTexas.com for more information.

... continued

FUTURE

April 12-15 Carts, Bikers & Babes Rally CartsBikersAndBabesRally.com Somerville Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Bryan/College Station BRING OUT YOUR BAD! Join Damon Dave and the crew for a weekend full of music and fun at Big Creek Park on beautiful Lake Somerville! Live bands, including Quiet Riot and Pat Travers. RV Sites, free tent camping (with entrance fee), bike & cart games, vendors and more. The party never stops! Visit the website or call 979.742.3284 for more information. Registration is open now - $45/ person weekend pass. Call for availability of RV Sites – they go fast! Sponsored by Thunder Roads Texas! April 13-15 TMRA State Rally TMRA.org Comanche Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Abilene May 3-5 Texas State HOG Rally TXStateHOGRally.com Fort Worth Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth May 11-20 Myrtle Beach Bike Week MyrtleBeachBikeWeek.com Myrtle Beach, SC May 17-20 The Aspen Cash Rally MotorcycleRally.com Ruidoso, NM June 7-10 Republic of Texas (ROT) Biker Rally ROTRally.com Austin Region: Hill Country Metro: Austin June 9-17 Laconia Motorcycle Week LaconiaMCWeek.com Laconia, NH June 18 International Ride to Work Day RideToWork.org

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June 30 Allied Memorial Remembrance Ride AlliedRide.org Fort Worth Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth August 6-12 70th Annual Sturgis Bike Week Sturgis.com Sturgis, SD September 7-10 The Texas Rally TheTexasRally.com Somerville Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Bryan/College Station September 12-16 The Golden Aspen Rally MotorcycleRally.com Ruidoso, NM September 26-29 Bikes, Blues & BBQ BikesBluesandBBQ.org Fayetteville, AR October 18-21 Biketoberfest Biketoberfest.com Daytona, FL November 1-4 Lone Star Motorcycle Rally LoneStarRally.com Galveston Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston About Our EventListing: Basic Event listings are FREE. Premium Event Listings (bold and up to 75 word description) are only $45/month. Send your event to: events@thunderroadstexas.com. To be included in the print version, information must be received by the 10th of the month prior to the month in which the event is scheduled or the month before you wish a Premium Event Listing to appear. Events must have some motorcycle element. Subscribe to our FREE Web-zine for updates with events that don’t make print, two weeks’ worth of events are provided every week to your email inbox. You can always visit our website to download a list of the “next two weeks” events. Thunder Roads Texas does not guarantee the accuracy of the information provided and cannot be held liable. Things change, there may be typos, and weather happens. So before you climb on your steed and ride to one of these events, contact the organizers and verify the latest information.

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EVENTS

Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

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id you know there’s a Valentine, Texas? Yup! It’s the only incorporated area in Jeff Davis County (located in far West Texas, near Fort Davis). And with a population of 187, it’s practically a Ghost Town. However, it’s big enough to handle a slew of Valentine’s that folks send to have their special someone receive a Valentine postmarked in Valentine! If you’re interested, all you have to do is send the Valentine inside another envelope to Postmaster, Valentine, TX 79854. It must be addressed and stamped. They’ll take care of the rest for you!

Painted Churches of Texas Since we already published the best roads in the area for riding – the Fort Davis Loop map (August 2009), I tried to find something new. When you think of Valentine’s Day, you think of love… when you think of love you think of marriage… and when you think of marriage (following me here?), you think of churches. I found a great little day ride around Central Texas, between Austin, Houston, and San Antonio, visiting the Painted Churches of Texas.

MAP

There are about 20 painted churches in Texas; 15 of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Sites. The ones on our map are the most popular concentration of seven of these beauties. They are located in and around Schulenberg, a well-known German cultural highlight in the state. Most of these churches were built by Czech immigrants around the turn of the Century (late 1800s/early 1900s).

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So just what is considered a Painted Church? They look like your normal, ordinary church with arched, stained glass windows and high steeples. But inside, the wooden planks are adorned with grandeur you don’t expect from the outside. Almost every wall and nook is brilliantly painted with murals, tromp l’oeil, and faux painted stone or brick. The painting takes these churches of modest means and makes them grand halls that remind the parishioners of their homeland. Many of these churches are the second or third ones built. Many of the originals were either consumed in fires or damaged beyond repair by the hurricane in 1909. If you’re out on your own, many of these churches are only open during services. However, many of these churches open their doors for scheduled tours. Contact the Schulenburg Chamber of Commerce to schedule one for your group. The paintings aren’t just “pretty”. Many of the images are symbolic, with much more meaning if you look closely. For example, the “all seeing eye”; this symbol is very commonly used in churches, as well as many other places (like our $1 bill!). Generally, it a reminder that God is watching over us. Many utilize the initials IHS, referring to the name of Jesus and images of a lamb, also referring to Jesus as the Lamb of God.

The Painted Churches appear unassuming as you approach them, but as you enter the front doors prepare to have your breath taken away by the beauty found inside.

On our map, we start in Shiner, with the Saints Cyril and Methodius Church built in 1919; painted in 1945 by unknown artists (probably members of the community). Most of the painting is in the altar area. It is of blue sky and angels that rise up over the altar, into the domed area. Up in the dome is imagery of Jesus rising to the heavens after his death. Circling the dome around the top edge is a series of stained glass windows; also a common element in these houses of worship. Columns are painted to look like marble, complete with gold leafed toppers. Head out of Shiner on Highway 95 North toward Flatonia. In Flatonia, turn right (east) on Hwy 90. About three miles out of Flatonia, go right on FM 1295. This takes you into what used to be known as Praha, the Czech spelling for Prague. Saint Mary’s Church of the Assumption sits atop a hill surrounded by old oak trees. Built in 1895, it is one of the oldest painted churches. Swiss-born artist, Gottfried Flury from nearby Moulton painted most of the interior. In later years, Father Netardus (pastor at the church) added his hand, as did Gene A. Mikulik, a parishioner. It is full of elaborate trompe l’oeil, tricking the eye to see what appears to be an open air Page 24

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cathedral, with elaborately carved stone decoration and faux arches. This is one of the more elaborately painted churches on our tour. Go back out to Highway 90 and continue traveling east toward Schulenburg. Just before entering the historic downtown, take a left on FM 2672. This takes you into High Hill, with Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church on the right. It is one of the first churches built by renowned Texas architect, Leo M.J. Dielmann (1906). The interior painting was completed by Ferdinand Stockert and Hermann Kern in 1912; both parishioners of the church. They used a different technique; they painted first on canvas, and then glued them to the wooden walls.

Off to our last church… you continue on County Road 211 (right turn out of the church), quickly taking a right at the fork to pick up County Road 212. At FM 2239, go right for less than a mile, then left on FM 448. In Giddings, take a right on Highway 290 East. Past Ledbetter, before reaching Burton, go right on FM 2302. At FM 332, take a right to remain on 2502. The first street on the left is Wesley Church Lane. After turning left, the road Wesley Brethren Church is about half a mile back on the left. The building is a modest former schoolhouse, built in 1866. The interior was painted by Czech immigrant and pastor, Reverend Bohuslav Laciak in 1889. This church is very different from the others. Smaller, all wooden structure, and the pastor attempted trompe l’oeil to mimicking a basilica-style church with faux brick walls and columns, as well as geometric decorative patterns. Also different at this church, the painting is incomplete, as Luciak was accidentally shot in a hunting accident.

Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

MAP

Head out toward FM 1383 and turn left. After a leisurely 90 degree curve, take a left on Mensik Road. On the left will be St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. Referred to as the “pink church” the entire interior is bathed in a rose-colored background with hand painted decorative elements that are relatively simple on the ceiling to very ornate on the walls. Built in 1918, third after a hurricane and fire took the first two, and painted in 1919. The identity of the painter was lost until the 1970s/1980s, when an interior design professor compared the art of various churches and determined that Fred Donecker was

When leaving this church, go back out to FM 1383, turn left. About 3.5 miles, turn right on Highway 77 North; travel north, through La Grange. In the small town of Warda, turn left on FM 1482, which will turn into Warda Blacktop Road, the becomes County Road 214. At FM 448, go right for about 1 mile, then left on County Road 211. At about 1.5 miles, the road takes a right sweeping curve, at which, the church is on the right side of the road. St. Paul’s Lutheran Church was completed in 1871, by Wendish immigrants from Hamburg, Germany and is the original church building. The Wends were descended from a group of Slavic tribes that developed a unique common language. The Texas Wendish Heritage Museum is nearby if you’re interested in finding out more. Boasting the tallest pulpit in Texas (20 feet above the lower floor), this “double-decker” interior comes from the long tradition of seating women and children (on the floor) separately from the men (in the balcony). This church is one of the oldest continually operating churches in America. In January 2012, they completed renovations to the church, including touching up with wall and ceiling paintings from 1906. The ceiling is a vibrant blue and the columns are painted to look like marble.

RIDE

Leaving the church, go right on FM 2672 and take the first right onto High Hill Road, which will become FM 615 about 1.5 miles out. Continue onto Piano Bridge Road (note: not a paved road). You will cross over the historic Piano Bridge, built in 1885, one of the few remaining iron bridges in Fayette County. On the left, as you come up to FM 1383, the second Saints Cyril and Methodius Church will be on your left. This building was designed by Leo Dielmann as well, after the original church (built 1877) was destroyed by the hurricane. From the ruins of the old church, the old iron cross, forged by freed slave and blacksmith, Tom Lee, was salvaged. This old cross was once again atop the church’s steeple. There are no records of who originally painted the interior and it was lost when the interior was whitewashed in the 1950s. In the 1980s, the church was restored and the original paintings were discovered, as were some of the original stencils. The ceiling is a bright blue sky with glistening silver stars. Colorful angels adorn the arches, as to painted vines, faux marble columns, and other decorative elements.

the original artist. Additionally, Gene A. Mikulik, who worked on maintaining the paintings in the area churches, assisted in restoring the paintings in this church as well.

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Introducing the 2012 Reader Rides Program we’ve included website links for information about each state symbol (download this list from our website for live links). As with all Points Across Texas submissions – these photo submissions MUST have you and/or your bike in the photo to qualify. (Limit one picture for each symbol and must be a separate photo from any overlapping categories in this list and from any other category in the Points Across Texas “base” destination list.) There are many different lists out there. We are only accepting the list provided by the Texas State Library and Archives Commission (tsl.state.tx.us/ref/abouttx/symbols.html) updated January 9, 2012. Any updates to this list during 2012 will also qualify. The rules remain basically the same:

his year, we’re setting up for future years. We’ve created a “base” distribution list that won’t change and each year, we’ll augment with a “themed” list to keep the program fresh.

The “base” list includes: • A picture of you in a Thunder Roads Texas T-shirt or standing with someone in a Thunder Roads Texas T-shirt. (Limit one per rider.) • A picture of you/or your bike next to a Thunder Roads Texas banner or sign. (Limit one per rider.) • Texas Welcome Sign at any state border (limit one per rider). • Texas county courthouse. (Limit one per county/per rider.) • All jailhouses listed the “Texas Jail List” on TexasEscapes.com under Texas Architecture. See list at end of article - or download from our website. • “Capitals” of Texas. See list at end of article - or download from our website. If we’ve missed any Capitals - please let us know and we’ll update our list. The Lone Star State is a giant of a state; proud of its achievements. It leads the nation in total productivity. It is the leading oil producer in the nation. More beef is produced in Texas than in any other state. It is still the nation’s largest cotton producer. Texas is a giant in the space industry, and is a major player in high technology. No state has a greater variety of reptiles, or a more diverse selection of flowers, than the great state of Texas. Fittingly, Texas also boasts the largest (gross square feet) of all the state capitol buildings, constructed of 15,000 carloads of pink granite. Official Symbols represent the cultural heritage and natural treasures of each state or the entire United States. Each state and region is also recognized by well-known icons and emblems such as state flags and seals. Additionally, each state also accepts a set of other symbols, such as the state bird, flower, mammal, tree, etc. They tell us what makes each state special. Not all states have the same category of symbols, such as the Texas State Tartan and Domino Game. But all go through a similar state process that involves submissions, legislative acceptance, and governor’s signature. So this year, we’re looking for your creativity! Take this list and send in pictures representing the symbols. Some of these will be “no-brainers”; others will require a little ingenuity. We welcome BOTH! And to help out a little, Page 26

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• Send in 10 photos (unique for each category/destination) and get a FREE 2012 Points Across Texas patch. If we add level awards, we’ll make that announcement in a later issue, on our website, and in our Facebook pages. • Pictures must be from 2012 and can be submitted March 1 through October 31, 2012. • Photos can be emailed to Shelly@ThunderRoadsTexas. com or snail mailed to 4631 Cashel Glen Dr, Houston, TX 77069 or submitted via our Points Across Texas Facebook page. • Only destinations listed here or online (online will have the most recent updates) are accepted. • First 10 photos are entered into a drawing for prizes at the end of the program (November 2012). Must be 18 years old to receive drawing prizes. 2012 Themed List - Symbols of Texas: Air Force – Commemorative Air Force www.CommemorativeAirForce.org Amphibian – Texas Toad (Bufo speciosus) npwrc.usgs.gov/resource/herps/amphibid/species/ bspecios.htm Aquarium – Texas State Aquarium www.TexasStateAquarium.org Bird – Mockingbird www.statesymbolsusa.org/Texas/Mockingbird.html Bison Herd – Texas State Bison Herd At Caprock Canyons State Park TexasBison.org TPWD.state.TX.us/spdest/finadest/parks/caprock_ canyons Bluebonnet Festival Chappell Hill Bluebonnet Festival Bluebonnet Trail Festival VisitEnnis.org/Festivals/Bluebonnet_Trails.html Bread – Pan De Campo TexasCooking.com/features/nov2005_pan_de_campo.htm Cooking Implement – Cast Iron Dutch Oven statesymbolsusa.org/Texas/cooking_dutchoven.html Dinosaur – Paluxysaurus Jonesi statesymbolsusa.org/Texas/Dinosaur_Brachiosaur. html Dish – Chili statesymbolsusa.org/Texas/CHILI.html Dog Breed – Blue Lacy statesymbolsusa.org/Texas/Dog-blue-lacy.html

Domino Game – 42 Texas42.net Epic Poem – Legend Of Old Stone Ranch tshaonline.org/handbook/online/articles/fclju Fiber And Fabric – Cotton statesymbolsusa.org/Texas/Cotton.html Fish (freshwater) – Guadalupe Bass TPWD.state.tx.us/publications/pwdpubs/media/ pwd_br_t3200_0191.pdf Fish (salt water) – Red Drum TPWD.state.tx.us/huntwild/wild/species/reddrum/ Flag – Texas State Flag tsl.state.tx.us/ref/abouttx/flagdes.html Flower – Bluebonnet statesymbolsusa.org/Texas/Flower_Bluebonnet.html Flower Song – “Bluebonnets” netstate.com/states/symb/song/tx_bluebonnets.htm Folk Dance – Square Dance statesymbolsusa.org/Texas/SQUARE_DANCE.html Footwear – Cowboy Boot statesymbolsusa.org/Texas/TexasStateFootwearCowboyBoot.html Fruit – Texas Red Grapefruit shgresources.com/tx/symbols/fruit/ Gem – Texas Blue Topaz statesymbolsusa.org/Texas/Gem_Topaz_Lone_Star. html Gemstone Cut – Lone Star Cut (see Texas Blue Topaz above) Grass – Sideoats Grama statesymbolsusa.org/Texas/Grass_Sideoats_grama. html Health Nut – Pecan statesymbolsusa.org/Texas/Pecan_Health_Nut.html Horse (domestic mammal) – American Quarter Horse tqha.com Insect – Monarch Butterfly TPWD.state.tx.us/learning/texas_nature_trackers/ monarch/ (Note: Prime months are September and October) Longhorn Herd – Foundation Herd Of The Texas Parks And Wildlife Department TPWD.state.tx.us/spdest/parkinfo/longhorn/ Mammal, Flying – Mexican Free-Tailed Bat TX.sbdn.org/bat_viewing_sites.html Mammal, Small – Armadillo tshaonline.org/handbook/online/articles/tca02 Maritime Museum – Texas Maritime Museum TexasMaritimeMuseum.org Motto – “Friendship” statesymbolsusa.org/Texas/Motto.html Music – Western Swing statesymbolsusa.org/Texas/WesternSwingTXstatemusic.html Musical Instrument – Guitar shgresources.com/tx/symbols/musicalinstrument/ Nickname – “Lone Star State” netstate.com/states/intro/tx_intro.htm#nickname Pastries - Sopaipilla And Strudel statesymbolsusa.org/Texas/Sopaipilla_Pastry.html statesymbolsusa.org/Texas/Strudel_pastry.html Pepper – Jalapeno shgresources.com/tx/symbols/pepper/ Pepper, Native – Chiltepin shgresources.com/tx/symbols/peppernative/ Plant – Prickly Pear Cactus shgresources.com/tx/symbols/plant/ ThunderRoadsTexas.com

Plays – The Lone Star, Texas, Beyond The Sundown, Fandangle shgresources.com/tx/symbols/plays/ Precious Metal – Silver tshaonline.org/handbook/online/articles/dks02 Quarter – Texas State Quarter (51 State Quarters® Program (1999-2008) theus50.com/texas/quarter.php Railroad – Texas State Railroad TexasStateRR.com Reptile – Texas Horned Lizard TPWD.state.TX.us/learning/texas_nature_trackers/ horned_lizard/ Rodeo Drill Team – Ghostriders TheGhostRiders.homestead.com Seal – Great Seal of Texas (adopted June 1992) sos.state.tx.us/statdoc/seal-additional.shtml Shell – Lightning Whelk shgresources.com/tx/symbols/shell/ Ship – USS Texas shgresources.com/tx/symbols/ship/ Shrub – Crape Myrtle shgresources.com/tx/symbols/shrub/ Shrub, Native – Texas Purple Sage e-referencedesk.com/resources/state-symbols/texas/ native-shrub.html Snack – Tortilla Chips And Salsa statesymbolsusa.org/Texas/Tortilla_Chips_Salsa.html Song – “Texas, Our Texas” TexasOurTexas.info Sport – Rodeo shgresources.com/tx/symbols/sport/ Stone – Petrified Palmwood shgresources.com/tx/symbols/stone/ Tall Ship – Elissa GalvestonHistory.org/1877_tall_ship_elissa.asp Tartan – Texas Bluebonnet shgresources.com/tx/symbols/tartan/ 10k Run – Texas Round-Up 10k TexasRoundUp.org Tie – Bolo Tie en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bolo_tie Tree – Pecan shgresources.com/tx/symbols/tree/ Vegetable – Sweet Onion shgresources.com/tx/symbols/vegetable/ Texas Onionfest; March 24-25, 2012 Weslaco.com/ OnionFest Vehicle – Chuck Wagon statesymbolsusa.org/Texas/texas_chuckwagon.html Waterlily – Texas Dawn water-garden-blog.com/texas-dawn-dedication-asthe-state-waterlily-of-texas Texas Jails List: Albany, former Shackelford County Jail Alice - Jim Wells County Jail Alpine, former Brewster County Jail Andrews - former Andrews County Jail Archer City, former Archer County Jail Athens, former Henderson County Jail Baird, Callahan County, old and new jails Ballinger, former Runnels County jail Bandera, Bandera County former jail Bastrop - Bastrop County Old Jail Baytown, Chambers/Harris Counties, former Goose Creek Jail Bellville, Austin County, former Bellville jail Belton - Former Bell County Jail Benjamin, Knox County, former jail Boerne, Kendall County Jail Brackettville, Kinney County Jail Brady, McCulloch County Jail Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

Brownfield - Terry County’s First Jail Brownsville - Cameron County Jails Brownwood - Brown County Jail Museum Burnet - Former Burnet County Jail Cameron, Milam County Jailhouse and the Jailhouse Ghost Canadian, Hemphill County old jail Carbon Old Jail Carthage, Former Panola County jail Center, Shelby County, former jail Chillicothe, Former City Jail Clairemont, Kent County old jail Clairemont Jail Clarksville, Red River County Jail Claude, Armstrong County Jail Coldspring, Old San Jacinto County Jail Coleman, Coleman County Jail Comanche, Comanche County jail Corpus Christi, Nueces County old jail Corsicana City Jail Dallas County Jail Decatur, Wise County Jail - Old Stone Prison Del Rio, Val Verde County Jail Dell City, Hudspeth county Desdemona, Eastland County old jail Dickens, Dickens County Jail Eagle Pass, Maverick County Jail East Bernard - Old Holding Cell Eastland, former Eastland County Jail Edna, Jackson County Jail Eldorado, former Schleicher County Jail Fairfield, Freestone County former jail Farwell, Parmer County Jail Floydada - Floyd County Jail Fort Davis - Jeff Davis County Jail Fort Griffin Fort Stockton, Pecos County, Pecos County Jail Franklin - Robertson County Jail Fredericksburg, Gillespie County jail Gail, Former Borden County Jail Gainesville - Cooke County Jail Garden City, former Glasscock County jail Georgetown, Williamson County old jail Glen Rose - Somervell County Jail Goldsmith, former city jail Goldthwaite - Mills County jail Gonzales - Gonzales County jail Graham - Young County Jail Granbury, Hood County old jail Groveton, Trinity County jail Guthrie - King County jail Hamilton, Hamilton County jail Hartley - First Hartley County Jail Hebbronville - Jim Hogg County Jail Hemphill - Former Sabine County Jail Henderson, Rusk County jail Henrietta, former Clay county jail Hidalgo County Jail, Edinburg Texas Hidalgo - Former Hidalgo County Jail Hillsboro, Former Hill County jail Holliday Hondo, Medina County Jail Johnson City, Blanco County Jail Jourdanton - Atascosa County Jail Junction - Kimble County Jail Kemp - Once held Bonnie Parker Kyle City Jail - old jail and sign La Grange - Former Fayette County Jail Centerville - Leon County Jail Llano, Llano County jail

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Throckmorton, former Throckmorton County jail Tilden, McMullen County Jail Van Horn - Former Culberson County Jail Vernon Texas - Former Wilbarger County Jail Waller County Jail Waxahachie, Ellis County old jail Wheeler, Wheeler County old jail Wichita Falls - 1890 Wichita County Jail Woodville - Tyler County jail

Lockhart, former Caldwell County jail Lubbock, Lubbock County Jail Marathon, former Brewster County jail Marfa, Presidio County, jail and water tower Mason, Mason County jail Matador - Motley County Jail McKinney, Collin County Prison Menard - Menard County Jail Mobeetie, Wheeler County Jail Montague, Montague County Jail Mount Vernon, Franklin County jail Navasota, Grime County, former jail New Boston, Bowie County old jail Oakville - Former Live Oak County Jail Paducah - Former Cottle County Jail Palestine, Anderson County Jail Palo Pinto County Jail Pearsall, Frio County Jail Quanah, former Hardeman County jail Richmond, former Fort Bend County jail Robert Lee - Former Coke County jail Roby, Fisher County Jail Rocksprings - Edwards County Jail San Augustine County Jail San Elizario - Former El Paso County Jail San Jacinto County Jail San Marcos - Former Hays County Jails San Saba County Jail Schleicher County Jail Seymour - Former Baylor County Jail Silverton - Former Briscoe County Jail Skellytown jail Snyder, Scurry County Jail of 1912 Somerville City Jail 4-13-10 Sonora, Sutton County Jail Sour Lake Iron Cage Jail Spofford - Strap-iron Jail Stanton jail, Martin County Sterling City - Sterling County Jail Stockdale City Jail Sweetwater, Nolan County old jail

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Texas “Capital’s” List: Alligator Capital of Texas; Anahuac Antique Capital of Texas; Baird Balloon Capital of Texas; Alpine Barbeque Capital of Texas; Lockhart Bass Capital of Texas; Mount Pleasant Bed & Breakfast Capital; Jefferson Big Bass Capital of Texas; Quitman Birding Capital of East Texas; Mineola Blackeyed Pea Capital; Athens Blueberry Capital of Texas; Nacogdoches Bluebird Capital; Wills Point Bluebonnet City; Ennis Bluebonnet Co-Capital of Texas; Burnet Bluebonnet Co-Capital; Llano County Blues Capital; Navasota Boot Capital of America; Justin Cactus Capital; Sanderson Cement and Steel Capital; Midlothian Cheeseburger Capital; Friona Chess Capital; Brownsville Chili Capital of the World; Terlingua Christmas Capital of Texas; Grapevine Citrus Capital; Weslaco Colonial Capital of Texas; San Felipe Cowboy Capital of the World; Bandera Crape Myrtle Capital; Waxahachie Crape Myrtle City; Mauriceville Crape Myrtle Capital; Lamar County Crawfish Capital of Texas; Mauriceville Czech Heritage Capital; West Daffodil Capital; Round Rock Danis Capital; Danevang Deer Capital of Texas; Llano Dinosaur Capital; Glen Rose Dove Capital of Texas; Hamilton Eagle Capital; Rains County Fruit Cake Capital of the World; Corsicana Goose Hunting Capital; Eagle Lake Hippo Capital; Hutto Horned Lizard Capital; Kenedy Hot Air Balloon Capital; Plano Irish Capital; Dublin Jackrabbgit-Roping Capital; Odessa Leap Year Capital of the World; Anthony Mural Capital; Breckenridge Mushroom Capital; Madisonville Norwegian Capital; Clifton Ostrich Capital; Midland Outdoor Capital; Buda

Pancake Capital; Hawkins Peach Capital; Parker County Polka Capital of Texas; Fredericksburg Pottery Capital of the World; Marshall Pump Jack Capital; Electra Pumpkin Capital; Floydada Purple Martin Capital; Longview Red Poppy Capital; Georgetown Red Tail Hawk Capital; Kaufman Redbud Capital; Denton Rice Capital of the World; Katy Rodeo Capital; Mesquite Rose Capital of the World; Tyler Sausage Capital; Elgin Seedless Watermelon Capital; Knox City Spinach Capital of the World; Crystal City Sports Capital of Texas; Round Rock Spur Capital; Gatesville Square Dance Capital; McAllen Stagecoach Capital; Bridgeport Storyfest Capital; George West Storytelling Capital of Texas; George West Strawberry Capital of Texas; Poteet Sunflower Capital; Hearne The Birthplace of Texas; Deer Park Tomato Capital of the World; Jacksonville Turkey Capital of the World; Cuero Vaquero Capital of Texas; Jim Hogg County/ Hebbronville Volunteer Capital; Comal County Watermelon Capital of Texas; Luling Western Swing Capital; Turkey Wild Boar Capital; Dickens Wildflower Capital of Texas; Temple Wind Energy Capital; McCamey Wine Root Stock Capital; Denison Wool and Mohair Capital; San Angelo

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EVENTS

Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

February 2012

Page 29

Want to see YOUR mug in our mag? Send pics to Shelly@ThunderRoadsTexas.com. Page 30

February 2012

ThunderRoadsTexas.com

Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

February 2012

Page 31

A biker’s greatest achievement was his brood of six kids. He was so proud that he continually called his wife: Mother of Six, which pissed her off a lot. But he kept referring to her as Mother of Six no matter where they went. At end of a poker run, he shouted across the bar, “Hey, Mother of Six, you ready to go home?” His irritated wife screamed back: “Anytime you’re ready, Father of Four!” Proposed Country Song Titles • Ain’t No Trash In My Trailer Since The Night I Threw You Out • Baked My Sweetie A Pie, But He Left With A Tart • I Lost My Honey Bunny On A Bad Hare Day • She Chews Tobacco, But She Didn’t Choose Me • The Peach I Picked In Georgia Didn’t Cling To Me For Long • Don’t Want That Floozy In My Jacuzzi • I Found The Recipe For Heartbreak In A Cookbook On Your Shelf • Now That We’re Miserable, I Hope You’re Happy A 3-year old boy examined his testicles while taking a bath. “Mom’, he asked, “Are these my brains?” the mother sighed and calmly replied, “Not yet”. You know you’re a biker if… •

You think GOD invented winter just as a good time to get your bike painted.

•

You have ever found a grasshopper in your beard.

•

You have a refrigerator in the garage just for beer.

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February 2012

Martha Stewart’s Tips for Rednecks

EVER WONDER…

• Never take a beer to a job interview. • Always identify people in your yard before shooting at them. • It’s considered tacky to take a cooler to church. • If you have to vacuum the bed, it is time to change the sheets. • Even if you’re certain that you are included in the will, it is still considered tacky to drive a U-Haul to the funeral home.

Why women can’t put on mascara with their mouth closed?

The boss of a Madison Avenue advertising agency called a spontaneous staff meeting in the middle of a particularly stressful week. When everyone gathered, the boss, who understood the benefits of having fun, told the burnt out staff the purpose of the meeting was to have a quick contest. The theme: Viagra advertising slogans. The only rule was they had to use past ad slogans, originally written for other products that captured the essence of Viagra. Slight variations were acceptable. About seven minutes later, they turned in their suggestions and created a Top 10 List. The top 10 were: 10. Viagra, Whaazzzz up! 9. Viagra, The quicker pecker picker upper. 8. Viagra, Like a rock! 7. Viagra, When it absolutely, positively has to be there overnight. 6. Viagra, Be all that you can be. 5. Viagra, Reach out and touch someone. 4. Viagra, Strong enough for a man, but made for a woman. 3. Viagra, Home of the whopper! 2. Viagra, We bring good things to Life! And the unanimous #1 slogan: 1. This is your peepee... This is your peepee on drugs. With all the laughter and camaraderie, the rest of the week went very well for everyone!

Why you don’t ever see the headline “Psychic Wins Lottery”? Why “abbreviated” is such a long word? Why doctors call what they do “practice”? Why Noah didn’t swat those two mosquitoes? Why they sterilize the needle for lethal injections?” Why they don’t make the whole plane out of the material used for the indestructible black box? A group of Texas friends went deer hunting and paired off in twos for the day. That night, one of the hunters returned alone, staggering under the weight of an eight-point buck. “Where’s Henry?” the others asked. “Henry had a stroke of some kind. He’s a couple of miles back up the trail,” the successful hunter replied. “You left Henry laying out there and carried the deer back?” they inquired of him. “A tough call,” nodded the hunter. “But I figured no one is going to steal Henry! Regarding the year 2020, a senior at Texas Tech was overheard saying, “If he end of the world comes, I hope to be in West Texas. Everything happens here 20 years later than the rest of the civilized world!” Your a Texan If...... • Your idea of a traffic jam is ten cars waiting to pass a tractor on the highway. • You measure distance in hours.

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ThunderRoadsTexas.com

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February 2012

ThunderRoadsTexas.com

Biker Friendly

Listed here are businesses that are SERIOUS about serving the Texas Motorcycle Community. The list is set up in categories. Regional and Metro information is included. An “*” means the location is a Thunder Roads Texas distribution point. Visit ThunderRoadsTexas.com to find a full listing of distribution points. Tell them you saw them in Thunder Road Texas!

Accessories & Parts * Stitches 1308 Hwy 6 South Houston, TX 77077 281.558.8572 Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston

Bars & Restaurants * Alamo Bar & Grill 7846 Fallbrook Dr Houston, TX 77086 281.537.7647 www.myspace.com/ houstonsalamo Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston * Barbed Rose (Alvin Restaurant Group) 113 E Sealy St Alvin, TX 77511 281.585.2272 www.barbedrose.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston * Boll Weevil’s 16003 FM 1236 Needville, TX 77461 979.793.6163 www.Facebook.com/Boll.Weevils Region: Closest Metro: Houston * Concert Pub North 2470 FM 1960 West Houston, TX 77068 281.583.8111 www.theconcertpub.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston * Curtis Lowe’s Bar 11800 FM 1960 E Huffman, TX 77336 281.324.7400 Find us on Facebook! Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston

* Frio Canyon Motorcycle Stop Bent Rim Grill 657 West Ranch Rd Leakey, TX 78873 830.232.6629 www.friocanyonmotorcycleshop.biz www.bentrimgrill.com Region: Hill Country Closest Metro: San Antonio *Hot Rods & Harleys Bar & Grill 13124 FM 306 Canyon Lake, TX 78133 HotRodsAndHarleysBar.com 830.964.2911 Region: Hill Country Metro: San Antonio * Noah’s Ark Bar & Grill 4438 Boulevard St Bacliff, TX 77518 281.339.2895 www.noahsarkbarandgrill.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston * Rolling Thunder Bar & Grill 6441 County Rd 2173 Fluvanna, TX 79517 325.573.HAWG (4294) www.rollingthunderbarandgrill.com Region: Panhandle Closest Metro: Lubbock * RPM’s Bar 26210 FM 2978 Magnolia, TX 77354 713.557.1103 Region: Piney Woods Closest Metro: Houston * Scooters & Shooters 525 E Hwy 29 Bertram, TX 78605 512.355.8070 Region: Hill Country Closest Metro: Austin * The Loading Dock 504 25th St Galveston, TX 77550

Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

409.765.5155 www.theloadingdockbikerbar.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston * West of the Brazos 23220 Hwy 36 Damon, TX 77430 979.742.3100 www.WestoftheBrazos.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston * Yankee’s Tavern 10328 FM 224 Carlos, TX 77830 936.873.3314 www.yankeestavern.com Region: Prairies & Lakes Closest Metro: Bryan/College Station

Dealerships & Shops * Cowboy’s Alamo City H-D 11005 IH 35 North San Antonio, TX 78233 800.397.7875 www.cowboysalamocityharley.com Region: South Texas Closest Metro: San Antonio * Cycle Heaven 3770 Hwy 69 N Lufkin, TX 75904 936.634.8404 www.cycleheaventx.com Region: Piney Woods Closest Metro: Tyler * Harley-Davidson of Kingwood 111 Northpines Dr Kingwood, TX 77339 281.358.0457 www.kingwoodharley.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston

* Harley-Davidson of Waco 4201 S Jack Kultgen Expy Waco, TX 76706 254-753-0393 www.hdwaco.com Region: Prairies & Lakes Closest Metro: Waco * Hawgs N Dawgs Motorcycle Shop & Café 1333 SE Military Dr San Antonio, TX 78214 210.924.0203 www.HawgsNDawgs.com Region: South Closest Metro: San Antonio * Houston Motorsports North 9550 FM 1960 West Houston, TX 77070 281.890.2020 www.houstonyamaha.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston * Javelina Harley-Davidson 29078 I-10 West Boerne, TX 78006 800-860-9696 www.javelinaharleydavidson.com Region: Hill Country Closest Metro: San Antonio * Legacy Harley-Davidson 12100 W Hwy 80 East Odessa, TX 79765 800.788.6921 www.legacyh-d.com Region: Big Bend Closest Metro: Midland/Odessa * Longhorn Harley-Davidson 2830 West I-20 Grand Parairie, TX 75052 972.988.1903 www.longhornhd.com Region: Prairies & Lakes Closest Metro: Dallas/Ft Worth

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February 2012

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Biker Friendly * Mancuso Harley Davidson - Crossroads 12710 Crossroads Park Dr Houston, TX 77065 281.970.9700 www.mancusocrossroads.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston

* Thunder Alley Cycles 416 NE Wilshire Blvd Burleson, TX 76028 817.295.0955 www.thunderalleycycles.com Region: Prairies & Lakes Closest Metro: Dallas/Ft Worth

* Insurance Lady Agency 642 W Rhapsody, Ste A San Antonio, TX 78216 210.403.2216 www.insuranceladyinc.com Region: South Texas Closest Metro: San Antonio

* Motorcycle Tire Shop 1917 S Hackberry San Antonio, TX 78210 210.533 BIKE (2453) www.motorcycle-superstore.com Region: South Texas Closest Metro: San Antonio

* Yamaha of San Antonio 15664 I-35 Selma, TX 78154 210.655.2625 www.kentpowersports.com Region: South Texas Closest Metro: San Antonio

Walker Texas Lawyer - Calendar Top 1924 Portsmouth Houston, TX 77098 713.552.1117 www.walkertexaslawyer.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston

Entertainment/Bands

Lodging & Campgrounds

* Mean Gene Kelton 901 N Gaillard Baytown, TX 77520 713-866-4872 www.meangenerocks.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston

* D’Rose Inn & Cabins Highway 83/Market St; BILL FOR JANDEC 2012 Leakey, TX 78873 830.232.5246 www.droseinn.com Region: Hill Country Closest Metro: San Antonio

Insurance & Attorneys

DUBL-C Guest House (Vacation Rentals by Owner)) Fredericksburg area: Located on Hwy 39 between Ingram & Hunt 866.427.8374 www.vrbo.com/385945 Region: Hill Country Closest Metro: San Antonio SPECIAL: Stay 2 nights; get 3rd FREE

* Phantom Rider Choppers 6535 West Hwy 46 New Braunfels, TX 78132 830.228.4606 www.phantomriderchoppers.com Region: Hill Country Closest Metro: San Antonio * Potterosa Cycles & ATVs 19447 FM 1485 New Caney, TX 77357 832.971.3728 Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston * Southern Metal Choppers 11116 Middle Fiskville Rd, Ste E Austin, TX 78753 512.833.5044 www.southernmetalchoppers.com Region: Hill Country Closest Metro: Austin * Team Mancuso Powersports Southwest 7537 Southwest Fwy Houston, TX 77074 713.995.9944 www.tmpsw.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston

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February 2012

* Ball Insurance 416 S Main St Highlands, TX 77562 800.444.7014 www.ballins.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston * Farrar & Ball Law Firm; Law Tigers 1010 Lamar, Ste 1600 Houston, TX 77002 713.221.8300 www.lawtigers.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston

Miscellaneous Outlaw Dave Productions PO Box 25028 Houston, TX 77265 www.OutlawNation.us Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston

Continued... Motorcycle Towing * Dragonstar Motorcycle Transportation PO Box 444 Bryan, TX 77806 281.935.8890 www.getaride.net Region: Prairies & Lakes Closest Metro: Bryan/College Station Mission Wrecker 4535 FM 1516 North Converse, TX 78109 210.341.0333 www.missionwrecker.com Region: South Texas Closest Metro: San Antonio

Riding Gear & Leather Goods * Moto Liberty - Dallas 11441 N Stemmons Fwy, Ste 201 Dallas, TX 75229 972.243.5995 www.motoliberty.com Region: Prairies & Lakes Closest Metro: Dallas/Ft Worth * The Hog Pound 13710 RR 12, #4 Wimberley, TX 78676 512.847.3444 www.thehogpound.com Region: Hill Country Closest Metro: Austin * The Motorcycle Outpost 103 S College Westminster, TX 75409 972.838.8222 www.TheMotorcycleOutpost.com Region: Prairies & Lakes Closest Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth

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ThunderRoadsTexas.com

Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!

February 2012

Page 39