It’s not about the bike... it’s about the RIDE!
December 2014 ThunderRoadsTexas.com
TM
Thunder Roads Texas * Page 2 * December 2014
Thunder Roads Texas * Page 3 * December 2014
Contents
26
December 2014
This Month
26 Bikes, Friends & Mechanical Issues 28 Thunder Roads Texas WAS THERE! 30 Christmas Shopping Guide 28
Regular Features 6
Letter From the Editor
8
Two Wheel Thunder TV: NOCO GB30 Genius Boost
10 Pig Writes: Annual Toy Drives & the “Real” Santa 12 Ride Map: Christmas in the Piney Woods 30
32 ThunderCam 34
Joker’s Wild
Resources 17
Event Listing
CENTER - Pull-Out December 2014 Calendar 37 35 13
Biker Friendly Listing
On the cover: Valentine, a friend of Pig’s, playing Mrs. Claus in the 2013 Red Riding Hoodlum Toy Run. Photo by Raymond “Rainman” Meinhardt.
OWNERS
ThunderRoadsTexas.com Facebook.com/ThunderRoadsTexas ADVERTISING SALES Thunder Roads Texas Main Office 281.866.8149 Shelly@ThunderRoadsTexas.com
Bob “Just One More” Cooney CEO ThunderRoadsBob@yahoo.com
Shelly “TX Dragonfly” Horan Managing Editor Shelly@ThunderRoadsTexas.com
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Points Across Texas Administrator
Randy McCamey Harley.Doc@hotmail.com
Bill “Shovelhead” Barnes ThunderRoadsBill@yahoo.com 321.960.6161
Monica Clark Monica@ThunderRoadsTexas.com
Laura Mae Benson - Houston Laura.ThunderRoadsMagazine@gmail.com 979.481.9642
FEATURE WRITERS
Traci “Sweet N Low” McClure - East Texas Traci.McClure@yahoo.com * 936.671.9567 Shelly “Cricket” Silva CricketGOC@yahoo.com * 210.445.2477 Chris Hensley chrishensley.ch@gmail.com 210.912.7852
“Pig” Meinhardt - Pig Writes Two Wheel Thunder TV - Product Reviews
Raymond Meinhardt meinhardtray@yahoo.com * 210.410.5783
CORRESPONDENTS
Annette Smith AnnetteSmith7@yahoo.com * 979.324.5995 Jason Kinsey J.Kinsey@yahoo.com * 817.965.6780 Raquel Gonzalez RaquelMG1969@hotmail.com * 281.837.8101 Connie Wunderlich cwunderlich@stx.rr.com * 830.377.6155 Jill Chatman 936.648.4178 * jillers1968@gmail.com
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
Joyce Siegert - D/FW; Dean Downey - Amarillo; Shelly “Cricket” Silva San Antonio; Don Brewer - Livingston; Donny Phillips - LaPorte; Mike “Biker” Boone - Houston; Jason English - East Texas; Don McGovern - Terrell/DFW; Donna Herrin - Edinburgh; Leah Hanscom - Piney Woods; Raul Carrasco - San Antonio; Diannia Clawson - Cedar Creek; Alice Cates - Houston; Garrett Stanley - Photographer; Todd Harmon Kerrville Elaine “Ridin’ Around” Fields - Dublin. 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.
As we come to a close on our 7th year of publishing Thunder Roads Texas (we took over with the January 2008 issue), we look back on a very good riding year. Lots of events and many great riding days. Unfortunately, I haven’t ridden as much this year as I had originally planned. When the weather was nice, I couldn’t ride for one reason or another. And when I did have a clearing in my schedule, the weather sucked! But, we know that many of you took advantage of a relatively mild summer here in Texas. We thank all who sent us photos and articles about your experiences on the roads of Texas (and some of those “other” states). Looking back at 2014… we sponsored: • St. Valentine’s Massacre; Hondo; February • Blowout’s Biker Bash; Hitchcock; March • Bikers Helping Babies; Pasadena; April • Carts, Bikers & Babes Rally; Lake Somerville; April • Oldest Town in Texas; Nacogdoches; April • Bikes & Bugs; Houston Area; April-May • East Texas Freedom Ride; May • Hill Country Run; Luckenbach; May • Ride for the Fallen; Austin-bound; May • Steel Horse Sisterhood Summit; Colorado; May • Texas Fallen Heroes Memorial Ride; Cypress; May • Allied Memorial Remembrance Ride; DFW Area; June • Wolfe City Country Cruise; June • Erath City Ride 4 Life; June • Biker Palooza; Houston; August • The Texas Rally; Lake Somerville; September • Deacons of Deadwood Charity Ball; Houston; September • LIPS Steel Horse Trail Ride; Chappell Hill to Conroe; September • Stevie Ray Vaughn Remembrance Ride & Concert; DFW Area; October • Knights of the Roundtable Conference; San Antonio area; October • Lone Star Campground & Biker Bash; Hitchcock; November • Lone Star Rally; Galveston; November • Northwest Houston San Jacinto High Rollers Toy Run; Houston; December • Red Riding Hoodlum Toy Run; Selma; December • Texas Honor Ride fundraisers & ride to San Antonio; Houston Area; Year-long • The Dean Seltzer Band; All over Texas; Year-long • Quaker Steak & Lube Bike Nites; Plano & League City; Year-long • Lone Star Bike Nights; DFW Area; Year-long
Do you take Thunder Roads Texas on the road with you? If you do, send us pics! Check out where our own Randy “Harley Doc” McCamey went with TRT!
That makes 8 rallies, 17 day events (charities), 2 out-of-Houston bike nights, and one band. And I know we didn’t name them all. Various other charity events got a free ad here and there to help the cause. We are working on our 2015 plans NOW. If you have an event you would like Thunder Roads Texas to sponsor, please send the information to me at the email address below. We have limited availability for sponsoring events, so the sooner you send something the better. We’d love to sponsor more rides from San Antonio, Austin, Dallas, Fort Worth, and the Panhandle areas of Texas. As we close the year, we wish to thank our advertisers. Without them, there would be no magazine. Our revenue comes solely from them. So, please thumb through our pages and go do your Christmas shopping with them! Make sure you tell them you saw them in Thunder Roads Texas! We are always thankful for our readers! You make the magazine great with your input and participation. Keep reading, keep sending… keep riding on! Merry Christmas to everyone… and have a very Safe & Happy New Year! Ride safe... and ride with THUNDER! Shelly “TX Dragonfly” Horan Co-Owner and Managing Editor, Thunder Roads Texas and Owner, Top of Mind Marketing Shelly@ThunderRoadsTexas.com
Page 6
H
December 2014
ThunderRoadsTexas.com
Thunder Roads Texas * Page 7 * December 2014
NOCO GB30 Genius Boost hristmas is just about here. Two Wheel Thunder TV wishes everyone a Merry Christmas and a great New Riding Year. Many have completed their shopping for the holidays. Others are still wondering what to get for someone who has everything or needs nothing. We have found the perfect item that you didn’t know existed, didn’t know you wanted it, and didn’t know you would ever need it… but you will never know how you lived without it.
For the mechanically challenged it is ultra-safe and mistake-proof. It offers spark-proof technology and reverse polarity protection, which allows it to safely connect to any battery. These safety features separate Genius Boost from other competitive products on the market by eliminating all of the inherit safety risks involved in using ordinary car jump starters and booster cables. With Genius Boost, there’s no risk of accidentally connecting battery clamps in reverse polarity, touching clamps, sparks, or arcing.
The GB30 Genius Boost is an ultra-compact and portable lithium-ion jump starter for 12-volt lead-acid batteries. It an safely jump start a dead battery in seconds, like on cars, boats, motorcycles, ATVs, and other vehicles.
Battery tenders really are a good thing to have and NOCOUSA.com carries a full selection of supplies for maintaining batteries. Check out this impressive partial list of products: battery corrosion preventatives, cleaners, protectors; battery terminals, battery storage, wire management, battery testers, hydrometers, highperformance battery cables, battery chargers, booster and jumper cables, trickle chargers for cars, boats, motorcycles, and RVs… and so much more!
How many carry jumper cables on the bike? Why not… too bulky, too cumbersome, not enough room? It’s not like no one ever had a battery die, right? And that no one has been in group of riders that at least one person could not get their bike started at some point? Let’s put it another way… motorcycle riders always maintain their batteries with the upmost dedication; keeping it in peak performance, right? And everyone has a trickle charger and religiously keeps it connected when the bike is in the garage? In reality very few people buy a new battery before every riding season or hook up a trickle charger while the bike is parked, if they even have one.
Back to the “I can’t believe I needed this so much”… Now we know how valuable it is to have the GB30 Power Boost in every one of our vehicles! It’s Christmas… and for only $159.95, how can you go wrong?
NOCO Power Boost comes to the rescue. It can jump up to 20 times when fully charged! Unlike ordinary car jump starters that lose their charge within a month, the NOCO GB30 is powered by a high-density NOCO element lithium-ion battery that can hold its charge up to one year and will last over 1,000 cycles. Whether preparing for something as simple as a battery not turning over, or a breakdown, accident, disaster or even something much more sinister, this is a necessity to keep handy. It is truly a must have for everyday use and for those who prepare for the unexpected. We found the NOCO Genius Boost totally fits into the “I can’t believe I needed this so much” category, and it’s small! The GB30 Genius Boost is a portable, pocket sized jump starter. It only measures 6.7”L x 3.2”W x 1.7”H and only weighs 1 pound (2.1 pounds with clamps); and yes the clamps come with it. But that isn’t the only thing it does. How many have new bikes that come with a USB adapter, and how many more don’t even have a USB adapter? NOCO Power Boost has one! Yes, it can charge your mobile phone, computer. or just about anything that needs charged! It can recharge all generations of smartphones on the market, as well as, HD action cameras, tablets, music players, wireless speakers, and so much more. So maybe you are old school… you ride rough, with only the clothes on your back. No phone, no technology, and forget about all that yuppie new age panty waist battery tenders. Who needs that anyway? So what if you break down at night out in, say, nowhere? The NOCO Power Boost even comes in handy with the Ultra-Bright Dual LED Flashlight with seven modes, including SOS and emergency strobe.
Page 8
H
December 2014
ThunderRoadsTexas.com
Thunder Roads Texas * Page 9 * December 2014
Annual Toy Drives and the “Real” Santa Claus man, three cups of coffee, one late night, another article deadline approaching… and I still have soooo much to do. Hello Piglets, looks like it’s that time of year again. The last turkey leg has been consumed and Aunt Edna’s Lima bean casserole still lurks in the fridge. Why? ‘Cause no one in their right mind will go anywhere near it. (That stuff is so nasty even the EPA won’t touch it!) I see the stores are in full-bloom shopping mode for Christmas. That could mean only one thing; yes, Christmas is fast approaching. Now, I have an important question I want to ask. When you get up on Christmas morning and start your day-long celebration, do you ever feel an empty spot in your gut? You know the feeling I’m talking about; it’s the one that makes you feel like you missed something. Then you start asking yourself “Did I go to enough parties? Did I buy everyone what they wanted for Christmas?” It’s that feeling that something just isn’t right. Do you know what I mean? Yeah, I’ve had that same feeling before, too. I came to realize the feeling did mean there was something wrong and that I did miss something very important for Christmas. Christmas is the time of year when we give to others to show your love for them. Often the message of love we try to send gets all bogged up and we end up focusing on the wrong things. Over-spent money here, partied too hard there, or maybe we had a petty argument with someone over something stupid. Whatever the case may be, I have a solution for that gut-check feeling you’re having. Ready? It’s called a toy run. Yes, I said a toy run. As a Texas biker pig, we all know how much we bikers care for our fellow man. We are the ones who donate the most and we are the ones who go to the benefits and contribute. We are the ones who know and understand what it means to experience true freedom. We are not afraid to stand in place for the ones who cannot stand on their own. We are also the ones who know when we are blessed we share those blessings with others who are less fortunate. We never ask why or how, we just dig deep into our pockets and help out however we can. Toy Runs. Yes, toy runs are always fun, with great times to be had by many. They have the power to put Christmas in its proper prospective. Christmas is more than just celebrating Jesus’ birthday; it’s more than opening presents or eating a great big meal with family and friends. It is our opportunity to make things right in a world full of so much wrong. Toy runs come in and allow us to help the children, the ones who have been born into an unfair situation in life, thus filling that void we get on Christmas morning. Rainman and I will be a part of the Red Riding Hoodlum Toy Run benefiting the Bair Foundation here in San Antonio on December 13. This will be Rainman’s second time at being Santa Claus. Since the end of August he has been growing his beard back and letting his hair grow long. There will be no trying to fool the kids with a fake beard and wig! These
kids do not want a phony, they want the real deal and they deserve it! I’ll never forget last year as Santa and the bikers pulled up… the kids and foster parents were all waiting outside for our arrival. Santa took the time and greeted each of the kids. Several wanted to be picked up and be held just for a moment. All was good until Santa came upon one very special little girl. She was about five years Fill your Christmas with joy and happiness by helping make an innocent old, had pig tails, and was wearing her best church child feel the love they deserve and help them to know that, no matter what, going outfit. Santa bent there is someone out there who really does care. Give of yourself what you down on one knee and can give. In return, you will receive blessings unheard of. held his arms open for her to get a hug. But she would have nothing to do with that. Instead, the little girl kept her defenses up as she held back. Santa assured her she would not be hurt. She stood her ground but she did have one curious question for the jolly old fat guy. Santa leaned in closer as she whispered in his ear. Her question was “Are you the real Santa Claus?” Santa leaned back, laughed, and told her to give his scraggly beard a little tug, she did just that. Santa smiled and asked her if he was real or not. She shook her head yes and immediately jumped into his arms. Santa hugged her tight, lifted her up and spun around on his heel. He said to her, “Now look at what Santa has brought you,” as he pointed. There on the sidewalk were over 200 bikers all lined up. The bikers began to will receive blessings unheard of. cheer and clap all for the little girl as well as the other Trust me, would I lie to you? children. She was all smiles as her mom came and took So if you are in the San Antonio area on December 13, her from Santa’s arms. make plans to come on out to our toy run. We will be at Inside, the kids were given turns to sit on Santa’s lap. One the Deer Crossing Saloon in Selma. Y’all have an open boy, who was about 14 years old, sat down on Santa’s invitation to join us and participate. It promises to be a knee. He said to Santa “I know I’m too old for this, but I just great time as we are planning to have lots of food, vendors, wanted to say thank you for letting me feel like a kid again.” drawings, and auctions. We’ll get things started with the “Whoa” was the only thing Santa could think of to say. How toy collection around 9:00 a.m. and the bikes will fire up many times do we wish we could be a kid again? Here was and head out around 1:00 p.m. After the toys are dropped this one boy who had been stripped of his childhood due off, we’ll all head back to the Deer Crossing for the afterto circumstances well beyond his control and for a brief party. moment this bunch of Billy-the-Bad-ass bikers were able If you can’t make to our Toy Run, then please plan on to give it back to him. That right there was worth every attending a toy run in your area. There are so many of bit of work, time, sweat, and money put into that toy run. Nobody, and I mean no body, was going to take it away them out there and each one deserves our support. Many of them are listed here in Thunder Roads Texas Events from that kid. Listing pages and also on the Thunder Roads Texas Yeah, you know that empty feeling I was talking about webpage. earlier? Well, if you have that void in your life, you should try to fill it by giving a little time and money to some kids On behalf of me and Rainman, along with all the great who really do need it and deserve it. Fill your Christmas people here at Thunder Roads Texas Magazine, we would like to wish each and every one of you a very Merry with joy and happiness by helping make an innocent child Christmas and a blessed and happy New Year. We love feel the love they deserve and help them to know that, no you all and thank you for your support. matter what, there is someone out there who really does care. Give of yourself what you can give. In return, you God Bless
You can contact Pig or Rainman by e-mail at pig8080@LIVE.COM For more of Pig’s wild adventures, check out his blog at pigspage.wordpress.com or follow him on Facebook.com/pig.meinhardt Page 10
H
December 2014
ThunderRoadsTexas.com
Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!
December 2014
H
Page 11
Christmas in the Piney Woods
T
his route travels just a small portion of the Northeast Texas Piney Woods area, Tyler-to-Athens-toPalestine-to-Rusk – and returning to Tyler. The entire loop takes a little less than three hours of riding time, so completed on a weekend, will make a nice jaunt around enough to enjoy the season’s festivities. With that said, rather than provide town history and the standard attractions, we offer these small towns’ festivities.
and pickup loads.
Starting in Tyler, with a whole host of Christmas things to see and do:
through the small town of Montalba. Again, this small town may offer some quaint Christmas offerings. Next on our route is Palestine. This town wraps all their local activities up in a bow and call it “Christmas in Palestine”.
RIDE
MAP
Through January 4 Santa Land – Texas’ Original Drive-Thru Christmas Park 11455 I-20 West, Tyler 75706 SantaLandTexas.com 6-10:30pm nightly; $25/car; $35/passenger van; Tractortrailer rides through December 26 - 6:30-9pm - $12/person Thursday, December 4 Christmas Parade Downtown Tyler 4-6pm. Additionally, the 29th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will be held on the T.B. Butler Fountain Plaza immediately following the parade. Friday, December 12 – Saturday, December 13 9th Annual Holiday in the Park &Bazaar Bergfield Park, 1510 S College Ave, Tyler 75702 Friday night, a local dance school will perform at 7 pm in the amphitheater and the snow play area is from 4-8pm; Saturday entertainment, arts & crafts 10am-5pm.
From Tyler, head west on Highway 31. Next on the map worth a stop is Chandler, offering the following:
Saturday, December 6 Holiday in the Park Winchester Park, 601 S Broad St, Chandler 75758 5-9pm; Featuring wonderful holiday music by local artists, Stanley McCurley’s famous homemade chili, Mr. & Mrs. Santa Claus at his workshop, face painting, a gingerbread house workshop, “Trees on Parade”, and much more! Monday, December 8 Christmas Tour of Homes All day Contact 903.849.4122 or library@chandlertx.com for details
Continue on Highway 31 West, going through the small towns of Brownsboro and Murchison. These are small Texas towns that may offer something special for the holidays in their Main Street squares. But next stop on our route is Athens. Through January 2 Christmas Park Land of Lights 1500 NW Loop 7, Athens 75751 ChristmasParkAthens.net Christmas Park Land of Lights, family owned and operated, is a wonderland of lights, music, and holiday cheer. Stretching 1 1/2 miles, the park boasts more than 4 million lights, more twinkly tunnels than one can count on a hand, lighted arches, and thousands of holiday characters longing to make your season the best it can be. 6-10pm nightly; $20/family vehicle; $40/commercial vehicle Page 12
H
December 2014
Saturday, December 6 Annual Christmas Parade, Christmas Around the Square Downtown Athens 6:30pm
Leave Athens, using Highway 19 South,
Through December 30 The Polar Express Train Ride at the Texas State Railroad TexasStateRR.com Read along with the story as the historic steam train makes its magical journey from the Palestine Depot to the North Pole. Meet Santa and enjoy caroling, hot cocoa, a treat and a special gift for each child. Tickets required; advance purchase recommended. December 5-13, 19-23 Grinch’s Lair at the Historic Anderson County Jail 704 Ave A, Palestine; 903.373.8158 He’s Mean, He’s Green & He’s in Palestine. The Grinch will take you on a tour of his home: His bedroom made of all beds, his kitchen & his bathroom. Characters from the beloved book are staged throughout. 10am-6pm December 5-21 Ice Skating Palestine Intersection of Spring & John Street, Palestine First three weekends in December (weather permitting) December 5-7 Frost Fest: A Vintage Holiday in the Piney Woods Historic Main Street, Palestine; 903.729.6066 PalestineFrostFest.com This heritage-filled weekend will be full of holiday activities that include events for everyone. Enjoy Historic Home Tours, Fruitcake Toss, 5K Run, Wassail Walk, and much more. Through December Eilenberger’s Christmas Eilenberger Bakery, 512 N John Street, Palestine EilenbergerBakery.com Gingerbread village display through December; Photos with Santa, cookies & hot chocolate provided December 6 & 20. Also known as having the best fruitcake in East Texas. 11:30am-1:30pm December 6 Christmas Open House at Lakeview Lakeview Methodist Conference Center, 400 Private Road 6036 Palestine LakeviewMCC.org Christmas Lunch by Chef Jackson York...View the Dickens Village Display that contains over 3,000 pieces. 10:00am-4:00pm
December 6 & 20 Jamie’s Annual Toy Drive & Photos with Santa Jamie’s Therapeutic Touch Day Spa 1730 Crockett Road, Palestine Kids enjoy delicious cookies and photos with Santa. Mom & Dad enjoy free spa treatments & cocktails. 12pm-4pm December 6 Dogwood Jamboree: “It Feels Like Christmas” DogwoodJamboree.org The Dogwood Jamboree is a Branson-style country music show held at the Palestine Civic Center filled with family fun, laughter and great country music. Doors open at 6pm; Advance tickets $12.50/Door $15.00 December 6 Christmas Parade of Lights and Lighting of the Courthouse Anderson County Courthouse Beautiful floats will march down the streets of Old Town Palestine and through Downtown as the Christmas Parade of Lights sets sail to the delight of hundreds of residents and visitors. Let the sprit of the season embrace you as the historic Anderson County Courthouse comes alive with illumination at Palestine’s most beloved nigh time event. 7pm December 11-14 The Texas Theatre Presents: A Christmas Story 213 W. Crawford Street Palestine Community Theatre, Inc. presents A Christmas Story based on the 1983 Christmas comedy film by Jean Shepherd live at the Historic Texas Theatre! One Weekend Only; Thursday, Friday & Saturday at 7:30pm; Sunday at 2pm December 13 Palestine Main Street Wine Swirl PalestineMainStreet.org; 903.723.3014 A unique wine & culinary event for wine lovers. Set against the backdrop of historic downtown, the Wine Swirl brings together a dozen of regional wineries for one evening to offer a taste of their vintages. Tickets available at the Visitor Center/Chamber of Commerce and online. 4pm–7pm December 28 Sunday Brunch at Red Fire Grille 400 N. Queen Street, Palestine; 903.723.2404 RedFireGrille.com Celebrate Christmas Cheer with your friends & family -3 Course Meal Prepared by Chef Christian Mailloux. 11:30am-1:30pm
Take Highway 84 East out of Palestine. The route goes through another small town, Maybelle, the on to Rusk. Rusk is at the other end of the Texas State Railroad. Christmasy things here... December 2 Light up a Life – Hospice of East Texas Plyler Memorial Park; Henderson Street & 5th Street, Rusk For those that have lost their loved ones, this holy ceremony is provided for you. If you are looking for peace through the hectic holiday season, this is the place to be.
ThunderRoadsTexas.com
RIDE MAP
December 5-7; 13-14 White Christmas Cherokee Civic Theatre; 157 W 5th St, Rusk An Irving Berlin classic… Two Broadway stars decide to help their former WWII commanding general make a success of his faily Vermont Inn. Advance purchase $10 students/$12 adults; $15 at the door December 6 Christmas Parade “Disney Holiday Parade” Downtown Rusk Theme: “Remember them; remember when, Christmas of ’41 – Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day” 11am December 20 Christmas in the Pines Cherokee Civic Theatre; 157 W 5th St, Rusk CherokeeTheatre.net Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!
Blue Grass Gospel Music featuring “Cowboy” as the Master of Ceremony, Harmony ridge Blue Grass Band, Rusk Gospel Quartet, Duets and Soloist. “Brining Blue Grass back to East Texas” Through December 30 Polar Express TexasStateRR.com Join Santa for a cup of hot chocolate and holiday cheer. PJs preferred dress.
Take Highway 69 North out of Rusk, heading for Jacksonville. Aside from the fabulous around town lighting, Jacksonville hosts…
December 4 Annual Christmas Parade – “Jacksonville Christmas Express” Commerce Street, Jacksonville 6-7pm
Leaving Jacksonville, continue north on Highway 69, returning to Tyler. Whew… that’s a lot of Christmas cheer! But, wait, there’s more! In looking around the area, there are other festivities of note, in case you have the time and/or desire.
Continued on Page 14... December 2014
H
Page 13
Christmas in the Piney Woods Whitehouse (About 10 miles southwest of Tyler; 20 minutes) December 6 Christmas Parade & Christmas in the Park WhitehouseTX.com Food and beverages provided by Ted Kamel Foods, kids games & activities, a bounce house, and appearance by Santa Claus after the parade (around 7pm) for pictures with the kiddos. Parade theme: “Frozen”. Festival starts at 3pm; Parade starts at 6pm Nacogdoches (About 75 miles southwest of Tyler; 1.5 hours)
December 5 An Old Fashioned Christmas MillardsCrossing.org Pass through the gates of History and return to the old-fashioned Christmas celebration at Millard’s Crossing Historic Village! Live music, live theatre, crafts, games, hayride, dance, petting zoo, pony rides, candlelight, food, drink, and merriment! 5-9pm Marshall
(About 50 miles northwest of Tyler; 1 hour)
show on every train ride.
Through December Marshall Alight VisitMarshallTexas.org downtown area is ablaze with a lighting spectacular that includes 3,000 miles of string lighting, 2.5 million bulbs, and 8,000 man hours of volunteer work. It is the nation¹s largest concentrated Christmas lighting display.
December 4-6, 11-13 32nd Annual Candlelight Tour of Homes JeffersonCandlelight.com This year three traditional tour homes will be decked-out with all natural greenery lit by candlelight, representing 19th Century Christmas finery. With a surprising fourth attraction, you will step into The Atlanta, Jay Gould’s Private Railroad Car, built of wood in 1886 with solid brass fittings. Thursdays 3-7pm; Fridays and Saturdays 5-9pm; $20/adult; $2/child under 10.
December 4-6 Christmas Open House Visual Art Center,;208 E. Burleson Over 20 East Texas artist bring unique, handcrafter gifts and art to shoppers for a one of a kind shopping experience. Refreshments will be served and an atmosphere conducive to a relaxed, enjoyable experience will make the day special. Thursday 3-7pm; Friday 3-8pm; Saturday 9am-4pm Jefferson (About 75 miles northwest of Tyler; 1.5 hours) December 4-11, 11-14, 18-21 Christmas Train RailOfLights.com; 866.398.2038 Take an enchanting ride along the Big Cypress Bayou and enjoy lighted vignettes along the way. During the ride, hear the Story of Christmas Around the World. December 25-28 & 31 New Year’s Train RailOfLights.com; 866-398-2038 Features the dropping of the ball in Times Square, complete with beverages, noisemakers and a fantastic fireworks
For those not heading to the Piney Woods this Christmas and you’re looking for something a little different to add to your normal holiday traditions, we offer the following resources. We know we’re going to add some new activities this year! EventCrazy.com TravelTex.com Eventful.com TexasFairsAndFestivals.com FestivalsOfTexas.com TourTexas.com And more…check various parks (city, county, state, historic) and zoos. Many Texas State Parks & Historical Parks (many offer some really fun, entertaining, and educational experiences), zoos, wildlife ranches, etc. Get creative with your Google search terms… who knows what you’ll find!
RIDE
MAP
Through December 13 18th Annual Nine Flags Christmas Festival NineFlags.VisitNacogdoches.org Featuring the largest lighted Christmas parade in East Texas, a fireworks display, a Christmas tour of homes, Tour of Museums, Jingle Bell 5K Run, Lighting Contest, and more.
...continued
Page 14
H
December 2014
ThunderRoadsTexas.com
Thunder Roads Texas * Page 15 * December 2014
EVENTS Page 16
H
December 2014
ThunderRoadsTexas.com
Event Listing
The MOST comprehensive motorcycle event listing published in the State of Texas!
DECEMBER m
DFW Toys for Tots Toy Run DFW-TFT-MR.org McKinney Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth Ride begins at Freedom PowerSports (2110 N Central Expwy, McKinney 75070) and ends at VFW Post 2150 – The Lone Star Post (1710 N Church St, McKinney 75069) where the Marines collect the toys.. Line up opens at 8:30am. KSU at 10:30am. Minimum $15 cash donation to ride; includes lunch after the ride. Additional cash and toy donations are appreciated. Big Twin Toy Run 972.230.1617 Cedar Hill Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth Hill Coutry Toy Run HTTRPigroast.com Johnson City Region: Hill Country Metro: Austin
Sons of Liberty Bandera Toy Run Facebook.com\pages\Sons-of-Liberty-MCBandera-Texas\209709325874800 Pipe Creek Region: Hill Country Metro: San Antonio Run begins at 10 am at Jakes in Pipe Creek, 12246 Hwy 16 South and will end at the Medina Children’s Home. Toy donations accepted in Bandera at Family Dollar, Bandera Bank, C&D Powersports, Vincent’s Automotive, NAPA Auto Parts, Inkhoggs Tattoo, Texas Star Cigar, and Carquest Auto Parts; and at Jakes in Pipe Creek. All Proceeds go toward the Medina Children’s Home Arms of Hope. For more information contact Wild Bill 719-371-2693.4 Santa Cop Toy Parade CrossRoadRiders.com Mesquite Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth The Annual Buddy Oney Toy Run 512.540.2561 Rockdale Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Killeen/Temple
Continued on Page 22...
Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!
December 2014
H
Page 17
EVENTS
Wednesday Bluez, Rock n Red Dirt with Wild Rabbit Salad Band EVERY Wednesday 8pm-10pm WildRabbitSalad.com Houston Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston Hosted by the Red River Ice House on Main Street (10308 Main Street, Houston 77025 located just outside the loop 610 near Reliant Stadium). Find Wild Rabbit Salad in Facebook!
6
Quaker Steak & Lube – League City Bike Nite – EVERY Wednesday TheLubecom League City Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston The best weekly Bike Nite on the planet! Live entertainment, theme nights, contests, giveaways, food & drink specials & much more! Like us on Facebook (search for Quaker Steak & Lube League City) for updates and specials!
6
WEEKLY RECURRING EVENTS
m
Thunder Roads Texas * Page 18 * December 2014
EVENTS
EVENTS
Thunder Roads Texas * Page 19 * December 2014
EVENTS
14th Annual Wise County Toy Run Facebook.com/WiseCountyToyRun Decatur Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth Johnson County Toy Run JohnsonCountyToyRun.com Cleburne Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth
Page 22
H
December 2014
Red Riding Hoodlum Toy Run 210.410.5783 Selma Region: South Texas Metro: San Antonio Starts at the Deer Crossing Saloon (4810 FM 1518, Selma). Registration begins @ 9am. Santa’s Sleigh loading begins @ 10am. KSU 1pm. Ride goes to The Bair Foundation for delivery. Huge after party at Deer Crossing Saloon with auction, games, food, drinks, vendors and more. Meet Thunder Roads Texas’ own PIG and get a picture! Call 210.410.5783 for more information. NO CHARGE TO PARTICIPATE, but please bring a toy or cash donation. Sponsored by Thunder Roads Texas!
Texas Scottish Rite Toy Run 972.551.9241 Garland Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth
13
Tri-County Toy Run of Central Texas Facebook.com/TriCountyToyRunOfCentralTexas Temple Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Killeen/Temple
Tioga VFD Motorcycle Toy Run 940.300.9943 Tioga Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Sherman/Denison Toys for Tots Toy Run - Pasadena ToysForTotsToyRun.com Pasadena Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston
14
San Jacinto High Roller Toy Run NWSJHR.com Houston Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston Northwest San Jacinto High Rollers’ annual escorted ride from Honda of Houston to the Boys & Girls Country (501(c)3 charitable home). Kickstands up at Noon, sharp. Outlaw Dave leads the pack as Santa. Online pre-registration available now – only $10/ person. Bring a NEW UNWRAPPED gift for ages 2-18 (10-18 more needed) or donate $15/person or more at the event. An ADULT after party hosted by Cypress Saloon, with live auction, music, biker jail, lotto hat, and prize for best decorated bike.
7
Big Town Bikers Christmas Swap Meet TexasScooter.com Mesquite Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth
... continued
13
7
6-7
EvenT Listing
Longview HOG Toy Run TheHarleyShopInc.com Longview Region: Piney Woods Metro: Longview
Continued on Page 24...
San Angelo Toys for Tots Motorcycle Run Suddenlink.net/t4t/2014_T4T_San_Angelo_flyer_lrg. jpg San Angelo Region: Panhandle Metro: San Angelo Facebook.com/ThunderRoadsTexas
ThunderRoadsTexas.com
EVENTS
Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!
December 2014
H
Page 23
18
EvenT Listing Thunder Roads Texas BIKE NIGHT ThunderRoadsTexas.com Houston Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston One Night – TWO Parties! Our monthly (third Thursday) biker party with a few hundred of our closest friends! 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! Reserved motorcycle-only parking.. Rain or shine… the BEST and longest continually held bike night in Houston! NORTH: Shifters Saloon (5001 Treaschwig Rd, Spring 77373). Steve & his crew throw a mean party!
EVENTS
31
CENTRAL: Outlaw Dave’s Worldwide Headquarters (6502 Washington Ave, Houston 77007, behind I-Hop). Outlaw Dave broadcasting LIVE! Cages, please park behind I-Hop. New Year’s Eve Party w/ Dean Seltzer Facebook.com/events/274669265899759 Dayton Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston
MARK YOUR CALENDARS February 6-8 St. Valentine’s Day Massacre MassacreRally.com Hondo Region: Hill Country Metro: San Antonio 38th Annual St. Valentine’s Day Massacre hosted by Alamo City Gypsy MC. Back in Hondo, TX! Come join us at the Hondo City Park and Fairgrounds located at 733 FM Rd 462 N. Plenty of camping and room for self-contained RV’s. Food & merchandise vendors; Run Pins for the first 1000; Fun run w/ cash prizes; Live music all weekend! For info visit our website or call (210) 601-1932. Sponsored by Thunder Roads Texas!
Page 24
H
December 2014
... continued
February 27-March 1 Mardi Gras on the Trinity Facebook.com/events/858670834149448 Liberty Region: Piney Woods Metro: Houston March 6-15 Daytona Bike Week DaytonaBikeWeek.com Daytona, FL March 12-15 Blowout’s Biker Bash BlowoutsBikerBash.com Hitchcock Region: Gulf Coast Metro: Houston March 25-29 Arizona Bike Week AZBikeWeek.com Scottsdale, AZ April 9-12 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 all weekend, RV Sites (book NOW), free tent camping (with entrance fee), bike & cart games, vendors, and more. The party never stops with the Battle of the After Hours Campsite Parties! Registration is open now. Sponsored by Thunder Roads Texas! April 24-26 Oldest Town in Texas Rally OTTRally,.com Nacogdoches Region: Piney Woods Metro: Tyler
May 1 International Female Ride Day Motoress.com May 1-3 Hill Country Run Motorcycle Rally HillCountryRun.com Luckenbach Region: Hill Country Metro: Austin May 14-17 Texas State HOG Rally TXStateHOGRally.com Tyler Region: Piney Woods Metro: Tyler June 11-14 Republic of Texas (ROT) Biker Rally ROTRally.com Austin Region: Hill Country Metro: Austin June 15 Ride Your Motorcycle to Work Day RideToWork.org
About Our Event Listing: Basic Event listings are FREE. Premium Event Listings (bold and up to 75 word description) are only $15/event. Send your event to: events@thunderroadstexas.com. 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.
ThunderRoadsTexas.com
EVENT
Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!
December 2014
H
Page 25
Bikes, Friends and Mechanical Issues: Bike Nights are always fun times By Todd Harmon, TRT Correspondent
5
D
uring October, with fall in the air means one thing; old man winter is just around the corner. Winter in Central Texas usually puts a damper on bike nights. Although this area has a very long riding season, we still find ourselves hard pressed to find a bike night during the winter months. Not that rounding up a few of your buddies and heading out to the ol’ watering hole is not fun; a planned gathering of the iron horses always has a different atmosphere. With that being said, I pulled out the current issue of Thunder Roads Texas magazine and planned my next adventure. Thursday night in Boerne at the Road Hawgs Saloon, just down the road from Javelina Harley, we found stop number one. I put the word out to all of my riding buddies and we headed out. What a cool little place. It was their first bike night and I was wondering just how well they would pull it off. After a short period of time, I knew they had knocked it out of the park.
1
With April behind the bar slinging cold ones, a table full of beef and chicken fajitas with all of the fixings, and a live band “Professor Julius and The Remedies” cranking out the tunes, I knew we were at the right place. Big screen TV’s on every wall playing sports and a dance floor for showing off your best moves spelled “good times”. Inside, the place was packed with people having a great time, and outside bikes were lit up with the LEDs shining. General Manager, Kat Rumley, and owner, Lee Chapman, had it all under control. As I observed the patrons in the room, I found a who’s who of business owners and representatives. The Javelina Harley Davidson crew was in charge of door prizes. Al Lopez, Javelina Harley Davidson Sales, was ready to talk about the new models coming out and new additions to the showroom. Chris DeLanghe, owner of C&D Powersports in Bandera, dropped by and met many of the local bikers and business owners. Terry Maris, owner of Classic Trim Embroidery in Boerne and a close friend, visited with friends and made new connections. This was a bike night and a business mixer all rolled into one. The ride home was not as much fun. My buddy Darrell and I decided to ride home together since it was pretty late. Darrell’s headlight had fallen out of the housing and was hanging down shining on his front fender. He was following me using my lights to see by. Now picture this; its midnight, rolling down Interstate 10 about 70 MPH, and all of a sudden everything goes black. The engine on my bike shuts off and the lights go out. Not a good feeling! I pulled over trying to find a safe place to stop. Darrel follows behind. Fumbling around in my saddle bag in the dark I find my tool bag just as the bike decides to come back to life all by its self. All is good, so off we go.
6
2
3
Five miles down the road and its round number two. Bike dies and we are in the dark again. This is going to make for a long, slow ride home. Before I can remove the seat to check the connections, lights come back on and everything starts working again, all by itself. Bolt the seat back on, fire it back up, and ‘mash on the gas. Well, long story short, this event repeats itself a total of five times. With my bike dying all the way and Darrell’s headlight shining everywhere but on the road, it took us an hour and a half to go forty five miles. As far as my bike was concerned, the culprit was that my main circuit breaker was overheating.
7
Determined to have some more fun, Saturday afternoon found us headed to C&D Powersports in Bandera for an open house bike night. Hamburgers, hot dogs, and cold beer; I’m there! Connie Wunderlich was in search of a wedding gift. A really cool hair wrap with a butterfly medallion turned out to be the perfect fit. C&D Powersports has a great selection of apparel and riding gear. It was a nice turn out and we managed to make some new riding friends. Our ultimate goal was achieved; good friends spending time together and riding their bikes; sharing good food and cold beers, making memories, and having plenty of laughs. Even the brake-downs were just part of the journey. Any day that you can crawl on your bike, put your knees in the breeze and the wind in your hair, is a good day. Ride safe and hope to see you down the road.
Page 26
H
December 2014
8 4 ThunderRoadsTexas.com
9
10 1. Todd Harmon, TRT Correspondent, Chris Delangh, owner C&D PowerSports Bandera and Al Lopez, Sales Javelina Harley Davidson 2. Professor Julius and the Remedies 3. Terry Maris, owner of Classic Trim Embroidery Boerne, Joanna Hinojosa, Jessica Snouffer, Chuck Snouffer , Boerne, TX 4. Javelina Harley Davidson crew: Al, Pete, Haley, Jake, Cody and Natatia 5. April Drimmel, Head Bartender 6. Katherine “Kat” Rumley, Road Hawgs Saloon’s General Manager, announcing the door prize winners 7. Mike and Sue Wellov Anissa of San Antonio celebrating their 22nd anniversary 8. Lauri Sinor of San Antonio taking a break to read the latest issue of Thunder Roads Texas Magazine 9. Lee Chapman, owner of Road Hawgs Saloon, Kat Rumley, General Manager of Road Hawgs Saloon and Jon Valdez, General Sales Manager Javelina Harley Davidson 10. Displaying their Thunder Roads Texas Biker Pride Tshirt – Lauri Sinor of San Antonio, Darrell Young of Kerrville and Todd Harmon, TRT Correspondent
Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!
December 2014
H
Page 27
WAS THERE!! The Texas Rally
September 11-14, Lake Livingston By Shelly Horan, TRT Managing Editor; Photos by Bob Cooney, TRT CEO As always, Damon Dave and Wendy put on a party in September! Unfortunately, there was some rain in the first couple days, but it finally cleared out and the party went into full swing. Our own CEO, Bob Cooney, was on-hand for some really fun times! Everyone’s buddy, Outlaw Dave, as there to man the stage, while great bands played all weekend. This year, they also had another radio personality, Terri “The Queen” Knight from 102 The Bear in Abilene join in the fun. On a more somber note, the two radio celebrities hosted The Texas Rally’s 9/11 Tribute. This year, all military vets (young and old) and first responders were invited to the party for free. A small, but very sincere, gesture to thank them for their service. Something unique this rally offers is the FREE luau meal on Saturday. Sponsored by Brookshire Brothers, the line for the scrumptious food was long. As for music, it’s all good! Thursday kicked off with the Moonshine Bandits. Thursday had a country twist, featuring Jackson Taylor & The Sinners. And Saturday’s headliner was the ever-popular, Quiet Riot. Another new feature this year was the sled pulls for guys that think their ATV is bad-ass. Of course, there are the bike games, Tiki Lounge, battle of the after-hours campsite parties, custom bike and cart show, tattoo contest, stage games, and more… all that have become the standard fare at a Damon Dave shindig. Keep your eyes peeled, Carts, Bikers & Babes Rally is just around the corner, April 9-12, 2015. It’s become bigger than The Texas Rally, filling the Big Creek Park & Marina full to overflowing! We’ll be there… will you?
Bikes, Blues & BBQ was HUGE!
September 24-27, Fayetteville, AR By “T” Collier, Editor TRM OK/AR; Photos by Douglas Henderson This rally has grown to a huge rally! Not only were there an approximate 400,000 attendees, it was spread out over many miles and many locations and venues. That’s one of the original things about it! But Bikes, Blues and BBQ (BBBQ) hangs its hat on the fact that it is the largest charity rally in the nation. Now that’s something to brag about! Since 2000, the rally has donated over $600,000 to local charities of the Northwest Arkansas area. Not only are funds raised through monies collected at the rally, but the rally may not be possible without the local charities working the rally from set up to striking the location, donated space to promote their charities, breakfast locations, their own events, and more. It’s truly an amazing thing to see from start to finish. We got to see more and be more involved in the process this year as we were the proud publisher of the first ever Official BBBQ Rally Guide and online GPS locator. Take a look at it online at BBQRallyGuide.com. It was quite an honor and went over very well. As for the rally, we had a blast in the national Thunder Roads Magazine (TRM) booth, as our National Founders brought in Thunder Pete (“National’s” RV and trailer) for the big show. Thank you to all who stopped in to say hello to us at Baum Motorcycle Village on the south side of Fayetteville. It was great to see folks from all over the United States stopping in to grab up magazines from over 22 states! There were some who were thrilled to have the latest copy of their next riding destination state. In addition to the TRM booth, “The Baum” area was filled with big vendor trucks, food trucks, product representatives, demo rides, helicopter rides, and more. Many looking for motorcycle upgrades, products, etc. were able to find all they needed there. Dickson Street is where it all started or so the legend goes. This is simply a stretch of city roadway which goes way down a long hill with about a 50 degree slope and back up the other side. Highlights of this venue are the Parade of Power Saturday afternoon which passed by the crowded sidewalks and the exhilaration of the extreme downhill and uphill grade. The vendor booths packed the nearby parking lots. The bars were filled with laughter and music. The barbeque trailers and the Main Stage with bands Page 28
H
December 2014
ThunderRoadsTexas.com
daily in the Beer Garden at the “hollar” as we call it or bottom of the hill! One of “T”s favorite things about this rally is the Stokes Air “Battle of the Bikes” presented by Nabholz Construction where attendees pick the winner! She had a great time sharing the mic a bit with Laramie the wild and crazy MC of this bike show. It’s by all means the best bike show in the nation! Check out video of a few rounds during BBBQ at Facebook.com/thunderroadsmagazineokar. “T” and friends were housed at Washington County Fairgrounds Saloon and Campgrounds in Fayetteville this year. This is the official campground of the rally. Some of the craziest fun goes on in the fairgrounds! For the biggest gathering of barbeque, the fairgrounds hosts the BBQ cook off. Yummy! They also had the hilarious Hambone Express Pig Races, exhilarating helicopter rides, lawn mower pulls, a karaoke contest, and more. This is the place for a little wilder escapade to the rally, but yet still family friendly. Pig Trail Harley-Davidson, in Rogers, AR played a large part in pulling some of the record crowd to a second location. Large vendors of motorcycle products, apparel, builders, food, and more filled the parking lot of Pig Trail Harley-Davidson. Entertainment, free bikini bike wash, beer Garden, Bud Girls, and live music were but a small portion of what could be found there. We were honored to meet Michele Smith of Two Wheel Thunder! “T” also got the opportunity to host the Steel Horse Sisterhood reception at this location on Thursday afternoon. It was great to see and meet sisters from across the US. After some serious Level 5 rides on the nearby highways and byways such as the Pig Trail Scenic ride, Highways 23, 21, 16, and 45… and the list goes on and on, we had done it all! The roads brought the riders to the rally and the rally brought the fun to the roads! All in all, this year’s 15th anniversary rally was the best one yet! If you’ve not attended this rally, please do so in the future. Next year will be held on September 23-26, 2015. We will see you there!
Chili Cook-Off: When a Win is a Win October 18, Selma By Raymond “Rainman” Meinhardt, TRT Feature Writer
This year’s Texas Confederation of Clubs & Independence (COC&I) Region 7 San Antonio Annual Chili Cook-Off was hosted by Quick’s Performance Cycles. As always, the cook-off proceeds help benefit the annual Red Riding Hoodlum Toy Run. There is some history between Roy Barnett, the owner and proprietor of the Deer Crossing Saloon, and our very own Pig. A lot of smack talk has been passed around through the years as to who makes the best chili and as to who owns the current bragging rights. So one Sunday afternoon back in September, Pig and I were hanging out at the Deer Crossing when Roy picked up where we left off with the smack talk the year before. He and I agreed we needed to continue our $50 bet on who would win the contest this year. Roy stated that he was so confident that his chili recipe was the winner that he would not attend the cook-off but would instead send his friend, Bud, to cook in his place. Hmmm, I think I smell a rat in that one, but okay Roy; you go ahead and send Bud in your place. After a month of smack talk with others joining in, the day for the chili cook-off finally came. Funny thing about smack talk, everyone else was willing to “talk the talk” but not “walk the walk”. It was only Roy and I who were man enough to actually put up our money. We arrived early at the field of battle; canopies up, tables set, time to kick the tires and light the fires. The ingredients were added, the heat was applied, and the pots were stirred. Who would emerge as victor of the 12th Annual COC&I San Antonio Region 7 Chili Cook-Off? A total of fifteen pots of chili entered this year’s contest. At 3:30 that afternoon the winners were announced. The third place winner went to Billy the Kid with the Soldiers for Jesus, second place went to the Ruffians, and first place went to Devils Outcasts. Damn, lost again. I officially conceded to the loss and sent my congratulations to the winners.
have won by stuffing their own suppose… how could it be
Before I tell you the winner for the People’s Choice Award, I have to ‘splain all the details so we all have the straight story. The People’s Choice award is supposed to be determined by the amount of money people drop into your jar. And we all know that some people in the past jar. I’m not accusing anyone of anything because I may not have all the facts. But suppose, just that Bud (with “Roy’s recipe”) won People’s Choice? Hmmmm!
Oh well, no matter, because the real winners were the kids and that most important. What’s funny though is old Roy never seems to learn that you should never, ever, mess with a guy who writes for a magazine because no matter what smack talk you may come up with, it is the guy who can spread his smack talk state wide that you need to watch out for! Roy and I may trade barbs back and forth over our chili, but I must say this about him, you’ll never find a greater guy than Roy Barnett when it comes to helping people out. It was fun Roy (even if my chili really IS better than yours). Same time next year?
This Old House
October 25, Stephenville By Elaine “Ridin’ Around” Smith, TRT Correspondent What happens when the wife of a longtime rider gets involved in the restoration of a historic house? A motorcycle benefit, of course! October 25 was the Fourth annual Stephenville Historical House Museum Motorcycle Ride that included 61 bikes and 75 participants. All the proceeds went to the Oxford House Preservation Project. This Historic Landmark in Stephenville was saved from destruction and had to be moved to a new location. The efforts to restore it to its former glory are ongoing with the help of benefit rides such as this. The Oxford House project began with the removal of the second floor. I was around and watched the moving and reassembly of this massive structure a few years ago - a truly monumental task. A lot of money was needed and the museum board was very receptive to the idea of a motorcycle event. On this particular sunny Saturday morning, motorcyclists gathered on the museum grounds and gazed at the beautiful and rustic buildings. Some rode over 100 miles to get to the event. When Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!
Continued on Page 35... December 2014
H
Page 29
Christmas Shopping Guide
Page 30
H
December 2014
ThunderRoadsTexas.com
Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!
December 2014
H
Page 31
A woman goes into a tattoo parlor and tells the tattoo artist that she wants a tattoo of a turkey on her right thigh just below her bikini line. She also wants him to put the words Happy Thanksgiving under the turkey. So the guy does it and it comes out looking real good. The woman then instructs him to put a Santa Claus with Merry Christmas on her left thigh just below the bikini line. So the guy does that one and it turns out pretty good as well. As the woman is getting dressed to leave, the tattoo artist says, :If you don’t mind, could you tell me why you had me put such unusual tattoos on your thighs?” She replies, “I’m sick and tired of my husband complaining all the time that there is nothing good to eat between Thanksgiving and Christmas!” In line at the company cafeteria, Bubba says to Ernie behind him, :My elbow hurts like hell. I guess I’d better see a doctor.” “Listen, you don’t have to spend that kind of money,” Ernie replies. “There’s a diagnostic computer down at Smart-Mart. Just give it a urine sample and the computer will tell you what’s wrong and what to do about it. It takes ten seconds and only costs ten bucks. Helluva’ lot cheaper than a doctor.” So, Bubba deposits a urine sample in a small jar and takes it to Smart-Mart. He deposits ten dollars, and the computer lights up and asks for the urine sample. He pours the sample into the slot and waits. Ten seconds later, the computer ejects a printout: You have tennis elbow. Soak your arm in warm water and avoid heavy activity. It will improve in two weeks. Thank you for shopping @ Smart-Mart.
Page 34
H
December 2014
That evening, while thinking how amazing this new technology was, Bubba began wondering if the computer could be fooled. He mixed some tap water, a stool sample from his dog, urine samples from his wife and daughter, and a sperm sample for good measure. Bubba hurries back to Smart-Mart, eager to check the results. He deposits ten dollars, pours in his concoction, and awaits the results. The computer prints the following:
Answer: The perfect woman survived. She’s the only one that existed in the first place. Everyone knows there is no Santa Claus and there is no such thing as the perfect man. ***Women stop reading here, that is the end of the joke. ***Men, read the next block of words. Men: So, if there is no perfect man and no Santa, the perfect woman must have been driving, which explains why there was an accident in the first place. By the way, if you’re a woman and you’re reading this, it only serves to illustrate another point, women never listen either.
1. Your tap water is too hard. Get a water softener. (Aisle 9) 2. Your dog has ringworm. Bathe him with anti-fungal shampoo. (Aisle 7) 3. Your daughter has a cocaine habit. Get her into rehab. 4. Your wife is pregnant… twins. They aren’t yours. Get a lawyer. 5. If you don’t stop playing with yourself, your elbow will never get better!
Are you sick of making the same resolutions year after year and yet you never keep them? Here are some resolutions that you can actually accomplish! Enjoy!
Merry Christmas and Thank You for Shopping at SmartMart.
7. Watch more TV. I’ve been missing some good stuff.
10. Read less. 9. Put on at least 30 pounds. 8. Stop exercising. Waste of time. 6. Procrastinate more.
The Perfect Couple
5. Drink. Drink some more.
Once upon a time, a perfect man and a perfect woman met. After the perfect courtship, they had a perfect wedding. Their life together was, of course, perfect. One snowy, stormy Christmas Eve, this perfect couple was driving their perfect car along a winding road, when they noticed someone at the side of the road in distress. Being the perfect couple, they stopped to help. There stood Santa Claus with a huge bundle of toys. Not wanting to disappoint any children on Christmas Eve, the perfect couple loaded Santa and his toys into their vehicle. Soon they were driving along delivering the toys. Unfortunately, driving conditions deteriorated and the perfect couple and Santa Clause had an accident. Only one of them survived the accident. Who was the survivor?
4. Start being superstitious. 3. Spend more time at work. 2. Stop bringing lunch from home: I should eat out more. 1. Take up a new bad habit.
The Thunder Roads Texas family wishes you and yours the best of the holiday season. Merry Christmas. Have a safe & happy New Year!
ThunderRoadsTexas.com
WAS THERE!!
... continued
asked why they came so far, the answer was “I love to ride, it’s a good cause, and there’s good people.”
Good people. Whether members of the Goldwing Club Chapter P or Chapter M, the Christian Motorcycle Association, or the Blue Knights of Granbury, loners, locals or folks from far away, they came together to ride through the lovely hills around Stephenville and support the museum efforts. The funds will help paint the house. The memories and friends made that day will last forever. Like one gal told me, “I came mainly for the wind and the friends.” Save the date for the next Stephenville Historical House Museum Ride, October 24, 2015.
Lone Star Rally and Outlaw Dave’s Ranch Ride
November 6-9, Galveston By Shelly Horan, TRT Managing Editor; Photos by Shelly Horan and Bob Cooney, TRT CEO We’ll have a larger, more complete report of the Lone Star Rally in the first quarter of next year… but we were there! We went down with the Outlaw Dave Ranch Ride on that Saturday. This was their 11th year to do the ride, raising money for the Stevens & Pruitt Ranch. The ranch is the product of Mark Stevens and Jim Pruett, self-proclaimed “Radio Gawds” from Houston’s rock radio past, and mentors of Outlaw Dave. The Ranch takes in and takes care of abandoned and rescued animals. When they can, add to that troubled youth. Over the years, Outlaw Dave’s Ranch Ride has raised tens-of-thousands of dollars for the Ranch. Touting around 700 riders this year, the ride blew across the Galveston Causeway onto the Island for a day of partying with the masses. As folks signed in and donated their $20, they grabbed a free breakfast, brought to us by Damon Dave, Wendy and his crew from the Carts, Bikers & Babes Rally. Near the end of ‘line up”, Jim Pruett auctioned off a few very nice (and big) guns! A huge call out to the Northwest San Jacinto High Rollers for once again helping with organization and the ride down. Outlaw Dave puts his name and voice behind many charitable causes. Go like his Facebook page (Facebook.com/outlawdaveshow) to find out what he’s up to next. After hanging with the High Rollers and Deacons of Deadwood (thanks for treating us to some good BBQ!), we finally made it onto The Strand and the Rally-proper. Always a good time!
Blowout’s Lone Star Campground & Biker Bash November 6-9, Hitchcock
By Shelly Horan, TRT Managing Editor; Photos by Don Brewer, Jeff Martin and William Mays Blowout’s party at the rally! At least that’s what we think it should be called. Blowout and his team roll out the red carpet to those attending the Lone Star Rally and looking for an adult-only party afterwards. Located conveniently just 20 minutes off Galveston Island, in Hitchcock, the Galveston County Fairgrounds filled up with RVs, tents, and party-goers. Live entertainment nightly, with late night debauchery. Vendors, beer, adult stage contests, beer, night time bike games, beer, dance poles and, yes, more beer. Ask one of the staff about the Apple Pie! They boast that they do not have a “quiet hour”, but we’re betting that quiet hour was around 11:00am, when the mass of bikes rolled out toward Galveston and the Lone Star Rally! If interested, watch their website (LonestarCampground.com) for information about next year’s gig. In the meantime, Blowout and his team will host a party in March – Blowout’s Biker Bash, March 12-15, 2015 (BlowoutsBikerBash.com). Registration is now open! Watch for ads and information in Thunder Roads Texas, starting in January.
Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!
December 2014
H
Page 35
Thunder Roads Texas * Page 36 * December 2014
Biker Friendly These businesses are SERIOUS about serving the Texas Motorcycle Community. The list is set up in business 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! Want to be on this list - it’s only $149/YEAR; $125 for churches, bands, MC clubs/groups, and VFW/ALR Halls - visit our website or email Shelly@ThunderRoadsTexas.com for information. * Rolling Thunder Bar & Grill * Harley-Davidson of Waco Accessories & Parts * Stitches 1308 Hwy 6 South Houston, TX 77077 281.558.8572 Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston
Bands Wild Rabbit Salad Great Party Band! Houston Contact Bucky Goldberg Facebook.com/buckygoldberg Reverbnation.com/wildrabbitsalad
Bars & Restaurants * Dots Burgerz & Brewz 31623 FM 306 Spring, Branch, TX 78070 830.885.2377 DotsBurgers.com Region: Hill Country Closest Metro: San Antonio * Frio Canyon Motorcycle Stop Bent Rim Grill 657 West Ranch Rd Leakey, TX 78873 830.232.6629 www.friocanyonmotorcycleshop.com www.bentrimgrill.com Region: Hill Country Closest Metro: San Antonio *Garrett Road Ice House 14303 Garrett Rd Houston, TX 77077 281.456.0440 Facebook.com/pages/Garrett-Road-IceHouse/268480946517754 Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston * Pivo’s Ice House 1564 FM 1291 Fayetteville, TX 78940 979.732.2290 Find us on Facebook: Pivos-Ice-House Region: Prairies & Lakes Metro: Austin *Road Hawgs Saloon 31138 I-10 West Boerne, TX 78006 830.755.6449 www.roadhawgssaloon.com Region: Hill Country Metro: San Antonio
6441 County Rd 2173 Fluvanna, TX 79517 325.573.HAWG (4294) http://rollingthunderbarandgrill.com/Home_Page.php Region: Panhandle Closest Metro: Lubbock
4201 S Jack Kultgen Expy Waco, TX 76711 254-753-0393 www.hdwaco.com Region: Prairies & Lakes Closest Metro: Waco
* West of the Brazos 23220 Hwy 36 Damon, TX 77430 979.742.3100 www.WestoftheBrazos.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
* Yankee’s Tavern 8703 Ada Oaks Ln Anderson, TX 77830 936.873.3314 www.yankeestavern.com Region: Prairies & Lakes Closest Metro: Bryan/College Station
* 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
Biker Churches *Northeast Texas Bikers Church 749 E 16th Street Mt Pleasant, TX 75455 903.563.0948 NETXBC.com Region: Piney Woods Closest Metro: Longview Church service on Thursdays @ 7pm Bible study on Sundays @ 5pm
Dealerships & Shops * Bill Allen Motorcycle Company 3607 S College Ave Bryan, TX 77801 979.822.4294 Facebook.com/BillAllen.Motorcycles * 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 * Gulf Coast Trikes 1907 Lawrence Rd, Ste 200 Kemah, Texas 77565 832.864.2085 GulfCoastTrikes.com Hours: Tues-Fri 9am-6pm Sat 9am-3pm Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston
* 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 * Mancuso Harley Davidson - Crossroads 12710 Crossroads Park Dr Houston, TX 77065 281.970.9700 www.mancusocrossroads.com Region: Gulf Coast Closest Metro: Houston * Motorcycle Tire Shop Welding/Technical Services 1917 S Hackberry San Antonio, TX 78210 210.533 BIKE (2453) http://motorcycletireshop.synthasite.com Region: South Texas Closest Metro: San Antonio * Southern Metal Choppers 11116 Middle Fiskville Rd, Ste E Austin, TX 78753 512.833.5044 www.southernmetalchoppers.com Region: Hill Country Closest Metro: Austin * Woods Cycle Country 1933 I-35 East New Braunfels, TX 78130 830.606.9828 www.woodscyclecountry.com Region: Hill Country Closest Metro: San Antonio
Continued on Page 38... Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!
December 2014
H
Page 37
Biker Friendly Girlie Goods BE THE FIRST TO LIST HERE ONLY $149/year BASIC or $199/year PREMIUM
Insurance & Attorneys * 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 * Freeway Insurance 642 W Rhapsody, Ste A San Antonio, TX 78216 210.403.2216 www.FreewayInsurance.com Region: South Texas Closest Metro: San Antonio
Lodging & Campgrounds DUBL-C Guest House (Vacation Rentals by Owner) Kerrville area: located on Hwy 39 between Ingram & Hunt; Stay 2 Nights, get 3rd FREE 866.427.8374 www.vrbo.com/385945 Region: Hill Country Closest Metro: San Antonio *Scoot On Inn Cabins & Camping, LLC 4397 South Highway 83 Leakey, TX 78873 830.232.4442 Office/Home 512.517.5349 Cell-Tim Region: HIll Country Closest Metro: San Antonio
Motorcycle Towing Cyclone Cycle Rescue 1100 Crane Dr Euless, 76039 76039 817.308.9086 www.MotorcycleTowingTX.com Region: Prairies & Lakes Closest Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth
... continued
Riding Gear & Leather Goods * Motorcycle Outpost, The 103 S College Westminster, TX 75409 972.838.8222 www.TheMotorcycleOutpost.com Region: Prairies & Lakes Closest Metro: Dallas/Fort Worth
Miscellaneous * American Legion Post 402 11457 US Highway 190 West Livingston, TX 77351 936.646.7411
Motorcycle Rentals
BE THE FIRST TO LIST HERE ONLY $149/year BASIC or $199/year PREMIUM
ď ˜
Page 38
H
December 2014
ThunderRoadsTexas.com
Texas-based, Texas-focused, Texas PROUD!
December 2014
H
Page 39
Thunder Roads Texas * Page 40 * December 2014