THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE OF IOWA
Letter from the Editor .........................................4
www.thunderroadsiowa.com P.O. Box 29 Kimballton, Iowa 51543
HOGS Gone Wild ...............................................8
OWNER/EDITOR Vernon Schwarte (712) 249-5630 vernon@thunderroadsiowa.com
CMA ................................................................... 12 99 County Tour ................................................. 14
Biker Friendly Listing ...................................... 10
Road Ramblings................................................ 17
EVENT CORRESPONDENCE/SALES
Capital City Show ............................................. 18 Rod and Custom Show .................................... 19
Eryka Driscoll Eastern Iowa 563-506-0389 eryka@thunderroadsiowa.com
Drippin’ Oldies.................................................. 21
Susan Mast SC/SE Iowa 319-931-4546 susan@thunderroadsiowa.com
Chopper Art Show ........................................... 22
Richard (Murph) and Annette Murphy West Central Iowa 641-524-4808 vizslaboots@yahoo.com
Girls of Thunder ............................................... 28
Calendar ............................................................ 24 From the Woman’s Seat ................................... 29 Will Ride to Eat................................................. 30
Harv and Sue Hunter Central Iowa 515-205-7410 harv@thunderroadsiowa.com
Military Rider Kandie’s Kidz ........................... 32 Thunder Cam .................................................... 34
Mark Swearingen Council Bluffs/Omaha Metro 402-651-2471 mark@thunderroadsiowa.com
Blast From the Past ........................................... 38
Bob Colbert Knoxville 515-579-1343 thomasrcolbert@yahoo.com
Joker’s Wild....................................................... 42
I’d Eat That ......................................................... 41 COIR .................................................................. 44 TRMI Events/Bike Night Listing .................... 48
David McCoy Mason City 641-420-1171 david@thunderroadsiowa.com
CONTRIBUTORS
Patricia Kemner Dubuque 563-580-3292 patricia@thunderroadsiowa.com
Netty Kawecki Copy Editor Nate Ullrich natanic@hotmail.com Craig & Lynnette Little-Will Ride to Eat craig@thunderroadsiowa.com
All rights reserved. All content is covered by copyright and ownership of said right is retained by Thunder Roads Magazine of Iowa. Photographs may be purchased on www.thunderroadsiowa.com Neither magazine or website materials may be reproduced, distributed, altered or posted to any other websites without the express written permission of Thunder Roads Magazine of Iowa LLC. 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 Iowa Thunder Roads Magazine of Iowa LLC, Thunder Publishing LLC. Publisher does not promote the abuse of alcohol or other drugs, advocate any unsafe practices, or encourage breaking of any laws.
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Tony Darveau Carroll Cycle Center tonypa@carrollcycle.com NATIONAL FOUNDERS Toni McCoy Shearon & Brian Shearon 1421 Chapmansboro Road Chapmansboro, TN 37035 Office: (615) 792-0040 Fax: (615) 792-7580 thunderroadsfounders@yahoo.com
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manager at the Slippery Noodle down the street. A great blues bar and grill with some killer food, unique history, and incredible live music. I know it is a far stretch from Iowa, but if you are ever in Indy, check this place out. If you don’t like the weather in Iowa, just wait a little bit, it WILL change…Just a few days ago I put on a couple hundred miles on the bike, I had some business stuff to attend to and thought there was no better day than a sunny 45ish degree day to ride. Now I look out the window and see about 10 inches of snow on the ground. I am sure that will be gone upon the time of reading this though, at least I hope. We are to that time of year that we are all hoping for a big rain to rinse off the road debris, and get to riding. As you start to head out, be careful of not just the debris, but as always, the spring car drivers. They get lax over the winter, and are not looking for us, so be wary. Be safe, to ride another day! Some of the excitement over the past month has been an interesting trip to Indianapolis for the Dealer News Expo. This show has been going on there for quite a few years, and is a place for dealers to go check out new and exciting products from suppliers. It is overall a powersports manufacturer’s showcase, with no particular brand in mind. It is mainly about motorcycles and trikes, but the occasional scooter and ATV gets some attention. Not being familiar with Indy much at all, it was nice of Joe from Slime to show us around. He is one of the dudes that were showcasing the green goo that seals up a tire on the side of the road. As I have had a couple issues in the past with tires, I don’t leave home without this stuff now. Don’t like to be stuck on the side of the road airless! Joe’s brother Paul is the food
As we get into April, we will have bike blessings such as F&J’s in Marshalltown, some runs getting started like the Sleeping Angels in Boone, and also the last of the swap meets. April also means getting into some open house parties at biker places around the state, Fenders Cycle in Des Moines, Hawkeye HD in Coralville, Backroads Biker Leather Shoppe in Everly, and Loess Hills HD in Pacific Junction, check them out if you are out and about. If you cannot find something to do on two wheels, you are not looking hard enough! Check out the back cover for the listing of events that we have so far. We also added the bike night listing for your reference as some of them get rolling in April as well. If you know of any additions to the list, email them to me at Vernon@thunderroadsiowa.com Our advertisers and readers are making this magazine what it is today, and for sure we are grateful for all of the support. The magazine is funded by the advertisers’ support, so please check them out when you have a chance, and tell them that Thunder Roads sent ya! Thanks to all of our advertisers, we look forward to being out and about at your events and shops this season. Make sure to let us know what is going on with your events lists, share that with us and we will get it to the masses. To the readers and those that submit events/stories/pictures, a thank you as well goes to you. We simply cannot get everywhere and cover everything, so your submissions from IOWA bikers are imperative to producing the magazine “About Iowa, For Iowa, and From Iowa”. If you have any events or bike nights that you would like to submit, email vernon@thunderroadsiowa.com we always love to hear from people all over the state. Gonna get back at it now, so TTFN...from a PROUD IOWA BIKER! Happy Easter! Vernon
ON THE COVER With Spring run off all over the roads, you gotta be careful as you head out on two wheels, or three in this case. Here we have Amanda Willis on Jeff Swearingen’s 2013 110th Anniversary Edition Harley-Davidson Tri-Glide at the All American Motorcycle Show in Omaha. Trikes are becoming more prevalent as a two wheeled alternative.
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The first HOGS Gone Wild Fan Fest was held at the Five Flags Center in downtown Dubuque on Saturday, February 23, 2013. The advertisement boasted that there would be plenty to see and do during the course of the day, and they pretty well hit the mark.
were greeted by the REF “Mobile Semi”, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation’s new mobile training facility. This Rider Education Facility (REF) was designed to teach motorcycle riders the importance of safety and formal rider training. The focus of this facility is to give riders and non-riders survival tips, advice on sharing the road, and the importance of continually being aware of their surroundings.
Without a doubt, the biggest draw for the day were the guest appearances by Kim Coates, who plays Alex “Tig” Trager and Theo Rossi, who plays Juan Carlos “Juice” Ortiz, on the hit television series, Sons of Anarchy. Fans stood in line for hours to meet these celebrities. A special VIP package was available prior to the event for another “meet and greet” with the two stars later in the evening. Tickets for that event were sold out prior to the day of the event. Those who attended were entertained by Wild Willy Parsons: The Original Biker Comic. His humor delighted many. The 80’s tribute rock band, The Breakfast Club, took the stage in the afternoon. Judging from the dancing and singing along from the audience, they were a hit! With their retro style and creative mix of tune selections, they certainly kept the place rocking! Another crowd favorite was the Harley Davidson fashion show. Both men’s and women’s fashions were presented. The models really worked the runway! Even the male models got into the show, strutting their stuff and showing a little muscle at the encouragement of the women in the crowd. Clothing was provided by Dubuque Harley Davidson.
Another highlight of this vendor show was the JumpStart Bike. At first glance it simply looks like a motorcycle on an elevated platform. But this Harley Davidson motorcycle was more than that. With its specially designed support stand to keep the bike stationary, individuals were able to sit on the bike, put their feet on the pegs, give the throttle a turn and feel what it’s like to “ride” a Harley, all under the watchful eye of a trained professional. Other vendors included Nate Ullrich Photography, as well as tattoo and custom paint shops places to visit, such as New Diggins, WI, Galena, IL, Dubuque Harley Davidson, National Motorcycle Museum (Anamosa) ; events to attend in Dubuque TorqueFest, . The Diamond Jo Casino booth gave free sample “signature” drinks to those waiting to throw the giant dice for a chance to win prizes. And of course, the Thunder Roads Magazine of Iowa and Thunder Roads Magazine of Wisconsin and Northern Illinois crews were on hand to hand out magazines and chat with anyone who stopped by. Overall was a nice break from winter reality to hang with some biker folks! Susan Mast
For those attendees who wanted to browse the vendor booths, there were certainly wide varieties to choose from. Visitors
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Biker Friendly Directory It’s important for you to know who your friends are out on the road! The Biker Friendly Directory is a list of establishments throughout Iowa that want you to know that they’re here for YOU. Let them know that you saw them here in Thunder Roads. If you know a business that would like to advertise in Thunder Roads Iowa Biker Friendly Places, please email vernon@ thunderroadsiowa.com
Biker Accessories Backroads Biker Leather Shoppe 305 N Main Street Everly, Iowa 51338 712-834-2999
Dillon Brothers Harley-Davidson & Motorsports 174th and Maple Omaha, NE 68116 402-289-5556 www.dillon-brothers.com
Canfield’s Sporting Goods 8457 West Center Road Omaha, Nebraska 68124-3132 402-393-3363 Canfields.com
Loess Hills Harley-Davidson 57408 190th Street Pacific Junction IA 51561 712-622-4000 loesshillshd.com
CoolBikerStuff.com 1224 Celebrity Drive Marcus, Iowa 51035
Nishna Valley Cycle HONDA – YAMAHA – KTM Atlantic, Iowa 50022 1-888-577-6406 www.nishnavalleycycle.com
Crispy’s Biker Apparel Cedar Rapids, Iowa Find Us On Facebook 319-241-0916 Leather & Hawgs 316 Main, Hornick, Iowa 121 1st St, Soldier, Iowa leather@wiatel.net www.leatherandhawgs.com
Convenience Stores/Gas The Pit Stop Convenience Store 421 Main Street Jamaica, Iowa 50128 Gas, Beer, Tobacco & Grocery 641-429-3101
Dealers Baxter Cycle 311 4th Street Marne, Iowa 51552 712-781-2351 www.baxtercycle.com C&C Custom Cycle 130 E Lincoln Chariton, Iowa 50049 641-774-7494 www.cc-cycle.com Carroll Cycle Center 1327 Plaza Dr Carroll, Iowa 712-792-1610 www.carrollcycle.com
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Beer Barn and Grill 226 State Street Kirkman, Iowa 51447 712-766-3395 Open Mon 4, Tue-Sun at 11
Hawkeye Harley-Davidson Coralville, Iowa I-80 Exit 240 319-545-7495 www.hawkeyehd.com Open 7 days per week
www.backroadsbikerleathershoppe.com
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Beaver Hut Pub Happiness is a Wet Beaver 307 East 7th Logan, Iowa 51546 712-644-6100
Fenders Cycle and Motorsport 1109 E Army Post Road Des Moines, Iowa 50315 515-256-9062 www.fenderscycle.com
Holstein’s Harley-Davidson 4940 S. 72nd St. Omaha, NE 68127 402-331-0022 www.holsteinsharley.com
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B & M Bar and Grill 110 W. Main Street Panora, IA. 50216 641-755-2806 Open Daily @ 11:00 am
Uptown Motors Sales, Inc 310 Cleveland St Muscatine, IA 52761 563-263-2944 www.uptownmotorsales.com
BJ’s Bar & Billiards 110 Ida Waterloo Iowa Home of Full Throttle Thursdays 319-234-9810 Buck Snort 113 4th Street Neola, Iowa 51559 712-485-9090 The Buck Snort on Facebook Captains Quarters 807 Main Adel, Iowa 50003 M-F 2-12, Sat 10-2, Sun 12-12 515-993-4417 Dexfield Diner & Pub 904 1st Street Redfield, IA. 50233 515-833-2927 www.dexfielddinerandpub.com
Werner Cycle Works 14410 Frontier Road Exit 440 I-80 Omaha, NE 68138 402-894-3050 www.wernercycleworks.com¬ Whipp Sales and Service, Inc 701 S 8th Street Clarinda, Iowa 51632 1.800.477.0195 www.whippsales.com
Entertainment Book Em Dano’s 33 S Main Street Denison, Iowa 51442 712-263-9818Mon-Sat 4-2 Dancers Nightly 5-1:30 Ossy’s Show Club 1215 Plaza Drive Carroll, Iowa 51401 712-792-9102
Food and Drink 14th Street Tavern 3418 East 14th Street Des Moines, Iowa 515-266-3446 M-F 8am-2pm Sat 10-2 and Sun 11-2
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Doc’s Roadhouse 309 East 7th Street Logan, Iowa 51543 712-644-3636 Open 365-8 am to Close Double R Bar and Grill Quick Ricks Rib Joint 209 East Erie (Highway 30) Missouri Valley, Iowa 51555 712-600-6441 Do Drop Inn 403 3rd Avenue Under the Water Tower Jamaica, Iowa 50128 515-314-0783 Excuses Bar 405 Main Street Malvern, Iowa 51551 712-624-8233 Excuses Bar on Facebook Foxys Bar 108 East Jefferson Osceola, Iowa 50213 641-342-3700 Visit us at Facebook FOXYS Good Sons 2815 Beaver Ave Ste 102 Des Moines, Iowa 515-681-5375
Goozman’s Westside Bar & Grill Harlan, Iowa 712-755-2259 Goozman’s Westside on Facebook Haverhill Social Club 202 1st Street Haverhill, Iowa 50120 641-475-3321 Mon-Sat 10-2, Sun 12-12 Hawkeye Bar & Grill 110 North 4th Street Mapleton, IA 51034 712-882-1226 Mon-Sat 10:30 a.m. ~ Sun 12:00 p.m. Huffy’s Mule Barn 802 Main Street Anita, Iowa 50020 712-762-9995 www.huffysmulebarn.com Keasey’s Hideaway Lounge 911 Court Street Adel, Iowa 50003 515-993-3001 Lampe’s Pub 608 Iowa Avenue Dunlap, Iowa 51529 712-643-5781 Open 7 days a week at 11 AM Lugger’s 201 N Main Street Kimballton, Iowa 51543 712.773.8620 Master Griller/The Field House 142 S Chestnut Earlham, Iowa 50072 Mastergriller.com 515-782-5850 Midway Tavern 206 1st Street Soldier, Iowa 712-884-2230 www.midwaytavernsoldier.com Montgomery Street Pub 207 East Montgomery Street Creston, Iowa 50801 641-782-2165 Off Sides Pizza 1119 Thomas Street Redfield, Iowa 50233 515-833-2900 Papa Joe’s 117 South 6th Street Missouri Valley, Iowa 51555 712-642-9015 Pearl Street Social Club 110 Pearl Street SW Shellsburg, Iowa 52332 319-436-7100 Find Us On Facebook! Pines Steakhouse Oinkers Lounge & Grill 1500 E 7th Street Atlantic, Iowa 50022 712-243-3606 M-F 11AM-, S-S 4PM-
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Services
Piranha Club 1215 Plaza Drive Carroll, Iowa 51401 712-792-9184 Piranha Club on Facebook
Third and Main 301 Main Street Manning, IA 51455 712-655-2304/712-210-2304 www.thirdandmainmanning.com facebook.com/thirdandmain
Pizza Ranch DENISON 510 HWY 39 North Denison, Iowa 712-393-3333 Check Us Out on Facebook Open 7 Days a Week
T.J.’s Pourhouse 100 E. Washington Street Exira, Iowa 50076 712-268-2353 Open M-SAT.@11, SUN.@ NOON
Pizza Ranch HARLAN 613 Court Street Harlan, Iowa 51537 712-755-2262 Check Us Out on Facebook Open 7 Days a Week
Tobey Jacks Mineola Steak House Mineola, Iowa 712-526-2078 Open 7 Days a Week Check Us Out on Facebook
Red Oak Tap 419 E. Reed Red Oak, Iowa 51566 712-623-4788
Vic’s Main Tap 304 Broadway Audubon, Iowa 50025 712-563-2122 Opens M-F 3, Sat 10, Sun 3
Riverside Tavern 450 E Main St Lehigh, Iowa 50557 515-359-9998 Email:riversidetap@gmail.com
Wet Goods Food & Lounge 113 N. Chestnut Street Jefferson, Iowa 50129 515-386-2111
Sambetti’s Bar and Grill 1430 2nd Avenue Des Moines, Iowa 50314 515-245-9780 Mon-Sat 11a-2a, Sun 11a-7p Screaming Eagle American Bar & Grill
228 East 4th Street Waterloo, Iowa 50703 319-235-8865 www.partyattheeagle.com Sidetracked 206 West Union Street Creston, Iowa 50801 641-782-8534 Sparetime Bar & Grill 136 West Main Street Ute, Iowa 61060 712-885-2226 Tailgators Bar & Grill 621 Willow Street Oakland, Iowa 51560 712-482-6269 The Home Plate Diner 304 E. 30th Street Des Moines, Iowa 50317 515-262-7000 The Lounge 1005 Chatburn Ave Harlan, Iowa 51537 712-755-5050 The Lounge Harlan Iowa on Facebook
The Middle of Nowhere 112 Main Street Cumberland, Iowa 50843 712-774-5425 The Sawmill Bar & Grill Now with a Full Menu 401 Main St New Market, IA 51646-3079 712-585-3601
Where You Can Grab a Rack, And Not Get Slapped! Venture Inn Blencoe, Iowa 712-452-2205 Wilson’s Tap and Recreation 1008 Story Street Boone, Iowa 50036/ 515-433-1395
Guns and Ammo
BC’s Custom Wood Floors Brian Christensen 1908 8th Street Harlan, IA 51537 712-755-2098 BCS Computers 100 Industrial Road Guthrie Center, Iowa 50115 641-747-3344 www.brubakercomputer.com Joe Karsten-Authorized Dealer Cornwell Tools 329 West Street Manning, Iowa 51455 712-310-0765 mobile Larsen Equipment Aaron Larsen PO Box 126 Kimballton, IA 51543 712-310-1762 Sound and Service Bike/Car/Home Audio and TV 712 Quint Avenue Carroll, Iowa 51401 712-792-5403 Southwest Iowa Sandblasting Mike Magers 65162 Oxford Rd Atlantic, Iowa 50022 712-249-3995 Traci Davis Real Estate Specialist 319-400-2000 traci.realtor@gmail.com Skogman Realty
Dales’ Guns Buy-Sell-Trade-Gunsmithing 109 Main Street Ute, Iowa 712-885-2671 rustyshot2000@yahoo.com
Certified Lead Abatement Contractor
Locked and Loaded Outfitters 422 Market Street Harlan, Iowa 51537 712-235-4867
Shops and Fabricators
lockedandloadedoutfitters@gmail.com
Shooter’s Outlet 114 Main Street Arcadia, Iowa 51430 712-689-2772 Tues-Fri 2-7, Sat 8-3 www.shootersoutlet.net
Healthcare/Wellness Sandra Grace Health Care Team 2884 AAA Court, Bettendorf, IA (563) 343-5344 sandragracehealthcareteam.com Massage, Hypnosis, Reiki & more Will travel to your event or office
Photo and Video Ullrich Photography PO Box 1842 Clinton, Iowa 52733 563-243-8715 www.natanic.com
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TVC Home Improvements 1422 Farnam Davenport, Iowa 52803 866-322-1754
Butterfield’s M.C. Parts 8025 Blondo Street Omaha, NE 68134 402-391-3768 Creative Concepts Collision 422 Market Street Harlan, Iowa 51537 712.755.2231 Dead Heads Eng, Fab, Repairs & Sales 426 Railway Street Gillett Grove, Iowa 51341 deadheadsmceng@gmail.com 712-835-3353
Flying Eye Psycol Circus 512 Main Street LaPorte City, Iowa 50651 319.495.8016 flyingeye@mediacombb.net Metal Ink 911 7th Street Ste 102 Harlan, Iowa 51537 712-235-2453 www.metalink.org Main Street Bikes and Trikes 522 Main Street Granville, Iowa 51022 712.727.3515 www.shopmsbt.com Nelson Machine & Forge General Machining, Ornamental Iron, Weld/Fab 70 Washington Street Marne, Iowa 51552 712-781-2220 Pike Run Services 320 Main Nichols, Iowa 52766 Shop 319-723-4244 Cell 319-330-4541 Revolution Cycles 120 South Main Street Baxter, Iowa 50028 641-507-9250 www.rev-ia.com Steffens Cycle Shop LLC 1311 E 7th Street Atlantic, Iowa 50022 712-249-5876 M-F 9-5 Most Sat 9-12 Or Call Throttle Shop LLC 1988 Arion Avenue Arion, Iowa 51520 712-674-3325 throttleshopllc@gmail.com XTreme Cycle & Off Road 206 E Main St Panora, Iowa 50216 641-755-4288 xtremecycle@netins.net
Tattoo Crave Tattoo 201 S 12th Street Fort Dodge, Iowa 51501 515-576-8289 FB Crave Tattoo, Inc. To buy ad space in our directory, call 712-249-5630 or email vernon@thunderroadsiowa.com
Elite Auto Upholstery & Embroidery
Specializing in Motorcycle Seats 1313 Walnut Street Des Moines, Iowa 50309 515-276-4392 F & J Racing 701 N 3rd Ave Marshalltown, Iowa 50158 641-752-8651 www.fandjracing.com
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CMA Notes
I am writing this at the beginning of March; one storm has just gone through and another is scheduled to hit tomorrow. It’s hard to think spring as we are up to our knees in snow, though it must be coming because we have finished with the Rock Island and Cedar Rapids swap meets as well as the Capitol City Custom show in Des Moines. Good turnouts and great times with everyone anxious to ride. As for the snow, I have done too much shoveling in the last month. The other day I was running down the sidewalk and picked up a dead squirrel with my snow blower. Of course the rodent jammed itself in the paddles, broke the directional plastic and caused another trip to the shop. Too bad it wasn’t that other lying rodent, Punxsutawney Phil, the groundhog with the big promises of an early spring.
Speaking of duplicitous rodents reminds me of all that is happening in the government and our country at this point in time. We are being bombarded constantly, day after day with the reality of living in this fallen world. The corruption, the attacks on our freedoms and our Constitution. Listening to the news and watching how our enemies are embraced and given millions of dollars while our allies are spurned. Seeing good portrayed as evil and evil as good could make it easy to fall into despair, anger or apathy. In many ways our country has been spoiled. We have, because of God›s grace and the
sacrifices of those gone before us, enjoyed what most in history have never experienced - FREEDOM. Political freedom, religious freedom and spiritual freedom. There are those who are working overtime to rewrite history and to destroy and remove those freedoms from this glorious experiment of a Christianity-based representative republic that is the USA. Our courts can be stacked, borders opened and ignored our taxes spiral out of sight and the people become the servants instead of the government serving and working for its citizens. They can chip away at our political and religious freedoms but they cannot chip away or destroy our spiritual freedom in Christ. Paul says in the book of Romans, «Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress or persecution or famine or nakedness of peril or sword? And also, neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come. Nor height nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.» While we are all affected by the societal breakdowns and unpleasantness which comes, we can›t forget that God is ultimately our deliverer whether from present personal or present world situations.
We are told not to be anxious about anything but with prayer and thanksgiving to present our requests to God. We also need to get involved with those organizations that will stand up for our freedoms. The Bill of Rights and especially the Second Amendment guarantee that we will continue to enjoy the other freedoms. Call your legislators, join ABATE, the NRA or one of the many other groups who are fighting for your rights and your concerns. Go to those lobby days, prayer meetings and community roundtables. Meet with your local and state officials. Make your voice be heard while you still have a voice and pray for our country and God›s mercy. Blessings, Mark Mark & Karla Cornick are Area Reps with the Christian Motorcyclists Association. Find out more about CMA and God›s plan for you at wwwcmausa.org.
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recommended one of the roads he enjoys touring on, County Road S-13 out of Popejoy. It is one of the few roads around 99 Counties to tour on the bike, 99 counties to tour, take one that have some curves. Another highly recommended road is County road C-13 across the north side of the county down, drive on around, 64 counties to tour on the bike. A through Shefield. It’s a long straight road that you can few years back, a summer riding goal was to ride through just open up a bit on. One last “can’t miss” road on your each one of the counties of Iowa, and what was found was a wealth of interest and beauty. Each month we will revisit voyage through this part of the country is County Road S-56. Part of last summer was spent repaving this road, so each county as a featured article. We will tell you about you can imagine gliding down this road through three new things of Franklins great little towns, Hansen, Geneva and to see, places winding up in Ackley. to ride, and give you a Beeds Lake State Park is one highlight to this little spark county. It has 320 acres to camp and hike on with of touring ninety-eight of them being picturesque Beeds Lake. curiosity for Even though it is a “no wake” lake there is plenty our state of of fun to be had in the sun with its’ beach and lucky Iowa. fishing holes. The lake has a rich history and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Take a moment Franklin to stop, look around at the dam and stretch your legs. County
99 Counties on the Wall
When a friend and I were on a road trip up Interstate 35 we encountered some true Iowa hospitality. We had gotten off of the interstate because we were hungry and pulled into the first little town that we could see. In the middle of the day it had no convenience store and no bar, so I use the term town loosely. We were hungry so we pulled over and asked this old boy if there was any place close to eat, now I am telling you, this kind skinny old man wearing denim bib overalls with a twinkle in his eye offered to “make us girls a peanut butter sandwich. That’s about the best he could do, but if we wanted to head up the road a bit there was a nice little town called Dow’s”. This was a very memorable introduction to Franklin County Iowa. Franklin County Iowa is situated just north of the center of the When it comes to history in Franklin County there state on the east side is a wide range of places to stop, from the Quasdorf of Interstate 35. It Blacksmith and Wagon Museum in Dows to the Franklin was founded in 1851, County Historical Museum in Hampton. The Windsor officially organized in Theater in Hampton is also worth a look as it was built in 1855 and named after the early 1900’s and is still in use today. Benjamin Franklin. In Franklin’s 583 One of the historically important residents to come out of square miles you will this county was Dr. Milton S. Wirtz. This fine gentleman find all 10,680 of its saw all the soldiers coming home from World War II and residents. It boasts many were missing an eye. Dr. Wirtz saw a need and eight official towns: developed the first plastic prosthetic eyeball. You can Alexander, Coulter, see some of his handy work at the museum in Hampton. Geneva, Hansel, Latimer, Popejoy, Sheffield and Hampton is the county seat. I defy you to find a county in our great state that doesn’t The east side of Dows and north side of Ackley also poke have great summer festivals and a county fair. into the county so Franklin claims them Franklin County takes their county fair very Fran too. seriously. The Fair is held each July with seri the standard assortment of 4H, FFA and th Franklin County is mostly flat Iowa Figure 8 races, however they are able to farm ground, but has some decent roads bring in some big names to their main to get out and ride on. I took a moment to stage. This year their big acts feature chat with Mike from the County Engineers Jerrod Niemann, Love and Theft, Marty office who happens to ride. Who better Stuart, Joe Diffie and fresh off his Geiko S to learn about Franklin County roads then commercial Eddy Money! They also host the com from the guy who takes care of them? Mikee 14 - TRMI APRIL 2013
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only sanctioned PRCA rodeo event in northern Iowa. You can go to all of these shows with a $35 Pop Pass. While gallivanting across this vast prairie landscape you may feel the need to let off a little bit of steam. If your packing some heat and on County Road S-56 just north of Hansell you can stop into the North Hansell Shooting Complex. This two-year-old complex asks $5 per visit or you can purchase a season pass for $40. This fee helps maintain the all-volunteer built course. There are targets from 15 to 350 yards in range and different areas for your different types of firearms. Franklin is a nice mix of new and old. They continue to prosper and share their hospitality to lost and hungry women. As my time in Franklin County came to an end, my friend and I saw a little sign on the side of the road that about summed up our pleasant jaunt through the county, it was hand painted in red and read, “Been There Done That, What’s Next?” Next Month will be Fremont County in SW Iowa Sources Available upon request. DRing Thunder Roads Magazine of Iowa on Facebook
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Road Ramblings random thoughts of a scooter tramp Woo Hoo it is finally April! That’s right ladies and gentleman, boys and girls and riding lovers of all ages, it is riding season in Iowa. As April rolls in, the bikes roll out. Pull off the dust covers, polish the paint, shine the chrome, air up the tires and throw the trickle chargers into storage it’s riding time!
It is nice to know before heading out for an all day riding event where the fuel stop opportunities will be. I’ve ridden past many service stations thinking I will fill up in the next little town, only to find out that the next little town that actually sells fuel is more miles away than the reserve on the tank can offer.
For those of you, who don’t believe me, check out the Events List, it is filling up and is action packed with a variety of upcoming events for motorcycle enthusiasts to choose from in and around Iowa.
Support buses, AKA “the party bus” have become more popular at poker runs. I always thought of the “party bus” as nothing more than a way for the non-riders to annoy the bikers. But a “party bus” with a can of fuel and an ice cold beverage is a welcomed sight especially to a biker sitting along the side of the road with an empty tank and a dry mouth.
Daytona has come and gone and the Sturgis obsession is months away, both truly great events to partake in, but my corn feed beef blood believes Iowa events can be just as much fun, they are quicker to get to and you can still Preplanned stops with or without AC doesn’t really roll home with a little change in your pocket going jingle, matter, just a place that knows the bikes are coming jangle, jingle. and is ready to handle the crowd. Any place can be a preplanned stop as long as it offers an opportunity to Get out and attend some of the events hosted throughout get off the bike, out of the sun and serves up ice cold Iowa. The poker runs, fun runs and charity rides are beverages. A good stop has plenty of adequate bike getting underway. I have ridden in enough such events parking and for those extremely HOT Iowa days, shaded to know that someone donates their time, effort and hard parking is a welcoming sight. It is truly amazing how work into planning, preparing and hosting these events. hot a black leather seat can get when left exposed to The event planners work hard to raise money for great the sun on a HOT summer day. They say oysters are an causes while making it an enjoyable experience for the aphrodisiac, Rocky Mountain Oysters biker style, not so bikers that attend. much. What does it take to make a good poker run or charity ride in Iowa? For most riders it starts with knowing about Music before the ride seems to put everyone into the it in order to attend. Advertising needs to be done in mood, during the stops it keeps everyone pumped up and advance in order to get the bikes to rumble in. Whether after the ride it keeps the party going. Live music, juke it is by radio, flyers, word of mouth, electronic media or box music or simply a bike with a great stereo system right here in the pages of Thunder Roads magazine the there is something about music that makes the biker word must get out, in order to get the bikers to come. booties bounce. Any other time telling bikers where to go may not be Laying out an event of any size, for any cause is such a good idea. usually well planned and thoroughly thought out before the bikers ever arrive. The route has been previously I might be twisted but I really like being issued a map traveled, the stops have been predetermined, gas stops and slapped with a wrist band when I pay my admission and food stops have usually been considered. Someone fee to a riding event. I trust that the mapped out route has done a lot of work planning and making the has been pretested and ensures good roads that will preparations for that day. Don’t forget to thank the people safely lead the parade to each designated stop. However, in charge. Let them know you appreciate their efforts and there are bikers who not only in life but during the most that you look forward to doing it again soon. well planned riding event just simply refuse to follow a predetermined route. So a well drawn out map of the area Some riding events end up being better than others, some is a bonus for those of us, who to tend to do things our draw a bigger crowd, some offer door prizes, raffles, cash own way. As for the wrist band, I like the feeling it gives prizes, a tee-shirt or maybe even a 50/50 pot. The way I me. Makes me feel like I just escaped the hospital psych figure it, any day I can escape the psych ward of life and ward and I escaped with a bunch of friends. go riding with friends, is a day well spent. Of course my opinion is every event needs food. Either Shifty LaRue serve something before the kickstands go up, make sure people know there will be chow after the event or map out a place to eat along the route. It is rather disturbing to watch a group of biker’s fist fight over road kill because they haven’t been fed. Thunder Roads Magazine of Iowa on Facebook
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The Capital City show, once again brought ght in a variety vendors for everyone to check ck out. The list is always variable, but this year seemed to make for a bigger variety y of things to see, and it is even refreshing that you can still damn near buy the pieces es for an entire motorcycle if you know what at you are looking for. Walking through thee show I was looking for the pieces to get one put all together. It was nice to see parts, as the base of the show with some extra cool stuff to see to make it complete. te.
embroidered, a new fancy cover, or even a heated insert or gel insert at Elite Auto Upholstery. Well, now that my bike is getting put together, in my mind at least, it’s time to grab a snack and go listen to some music.
Some of the vendors that I hadn’t seen before brought a nice mix of merchandise. e. I really liked the decorated head bands, bandanas and jewelry. (It was nice to see some stuff just for women.) On the artsy end you had Sue Hopper of Signs and Wonders, and Tom Fugle of Custom Creations. Those two can create some beautiful work on leather, canvas, or metal in Tom’s case. Now I’m on to the guys who put the finishing touches on your pride and joy. Let’s see, do I want itt powder coated at Oberg Customs Powderr Coating, or do I go with liquid paint at one of the custom painters on hand? Too many awesome custom paint jobs on display here, how do I choose? Now I’m m on to look at some seats. Once I have my y style y ppicked out,, I jjust might g gget it
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I stopped at Tim Sheehan’s booth where I found the World’s Best Meats in the form of jerky. They had every flavor from Sweet and Sassy, to Death by Jerky. Yep, you guessed it, I tried Death by Jerky. As I munched my jerky and wiped the tears from my eyes and took care of my runny nose, I couldn’t help but move my feet to the incredible sounds of Misfit Toyz. I gotta give it to the gal singer, she did Janis proud! Tater, and group, if you’re reading this, just wanted to let you know how much we all appreciate you bringing us together the way you do every year. I’m sure all us bikers are ready to tear our own, (and each other’s) hair out by this time of the nonriding season. This gathering really helps temper down the nerves, but also helps remind us what we need to get done to our rides to get ready for the riding season. Thanks Tater and group for the awesome gathering. Annette
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Rod and Custom Show
It’s like clockwork… Well, a 365 day clock anyway. You see, you can bet that the last weekend in February every year, will pack the place full at the Rod and Custom show in Monticello, Iowa. The eldest of the Muller brothers, Ralph, started this show back in 1970, and he and his brother have been hard at it every year since. This isn’t just any show either… younger brothers Tom and Galen scour the Midwest all year long, looking for the best of the best to invite to their show. Even the weekend right after their show this year, Galen was spotted at the World of Wheels show in Chicago, scouting for next year’s hottest custom cars and motorcycles. Yeah, it’s billed as a “rod and custom” show, but there’s an entire room set aside just for motorcycles too! This show is known just as well for bringing in killer bikes, as it is for the cars. Bikes from as far away as North Dakota, were on display this year, as well as bike from all across Iowa. To top it all off, the Mullers bring in a
special guest celebrity each year, and this year’s guest was Miss “Daisy Duke” herself, Catherine Bach! Next year’s dates are slated for February 22nd-23rd, and you can get more info at www. rodandcustomcarshow.com or give the Mullers a call at 319-465-5119 Nate Ullrich (www.Lyfebehindbars.com) Thunder Roads Magazine of Iowa on Facebook
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I know that most of us were hoping to get the early spring like we did last year; sadly though it doesn’t seem like that is going to happen this year. I remember wearing shorts at this time last year, not waiting for this weekend’s snow to fall. That’s just Iowa’s weather for ya.
For those of you with Evolution equipped models, I’m sure you have noticed a little seepage around the base gaskets; again this is caused by the old paper gaskets. Now to do this right you’re going to spend a bit more money. First off, I will recommend the Hayden Oil-fix Kit. This kit strengthens the oil passages that lead from the crankcase to the cylinders by inserting a little brass ferrule or jet as they call it, into the crankcase, no machining is required. Secondly, I will say to throw the gaskets away that come with the kit and substitute a set of James metal base gaskets instead. My bike had this done years ago and I haven’t had a problem since.
Continuing on from last month’s article about Vintage Iron I’m going a little basic on this month’s article. As many of you know, Harley had a minor reputation back in the day for their minor oil leaks. Harsh words I know but there is a lot of truth behind it; For those shovelhead riders out there, I’m sure many of you already know this and even all the way up to the last have converted yours over. Evo models there have been But for those of you that don’t small issues. The best advice know, I recommend changing I have for you is don’t expect out your old cork pushrod an OE Harley gasket to be the tube O-ring for the far-superior best. The deal with HD is if it neoprene versions. They should doesn’t fit the bikes they are fix any leaks you have with the currently producing, they don’t pushrods. As the same with really care about upgrading an the gaskets on the old sporty item to today’s technology. For I recommend on doing some example, I recently replaced looking and making sure you the primary cover gasket on the replace your gaskets with an 77 Sporty. Harley only offers aftermarket updated version. the old foam-paper gasket that Almost all of the gaskets have should have been obsolete an improved version out there years ago. With a little bit of d either ith Cometic C ti gaskets or Original James Gaskets and looking, I found that James Gaskets offers a gasket are the way to go. that is made of the same stuff the gaskets on the current Harley-Davidson models are. These gaskets As I finish typing this up we are have an aluminum core gasket currently getting what I hope that is coated with an expanded will be our last snow fall of rubber which makes them far the season and in a couple of superior to the gaskets of ole. weeks we all will be out on the For now this has been the only road. Spring is on its way… we gasket I have replaced on the hope!! old girl but trust me, as I go through it, each one I have to Tony Darveau e replace will be replaced with the newer style.
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More than li like likely, kely ly if you’re a devoted reader of various biker magazines, than there’s no need to explain the impact that the late David Mann played in the biker community. His artistic portrayals of bikers in every lifestyle situation imaginable were a mainstay in Easyriders for decades, and even to this day, are still seen regularly in their pages.
that fit the style that Dave might’ve painted were invited in for display. Along with the bikes, various vendors were also invited to display and sell their unique style of artwork, which also represented the biker lifestyle… Tom Fugle, a long time friend of Dave’s, was offering hand tooled leather work and beautiful representations of Dave’s work on rocks with hand made stands unique to the shape of each rock. Metalwerks had some highly detailed hand built metal chopper sculptures, Dirty Biker offered up unique T-shirt designs by a leggy blonde named Kelsey to adorn, and photographer Nate Ullrich displayed his framed vintage motorcycle prints and pin-up calendars. Nods also go out the El Forasteros for their booth displaying memorabilia from decades of rides and parties, including other rare images of Dave Mann.
Since Dave’s passing in 2004, his artwork has grown in popularity, and even spawned events like the David Mann Chopper Fest in California. But Dave’s roots are in the Midwest, so it also seems fitting to honor him and This quaint ‘lil get-together pales in size to “Chopper Fest” his work closer to his old stomping grounds. David Mann on the west coast, but was known for incorporating all the history under one many of his friends and roof made it every bit as people he’d met on the road comparable, if not more into subjects in his work, so! It was a true pleasure so his brothers with the El to meet subjects of Dave’s Forastero M/C decided to host work, like Tom, Skip, a small Chopper Art Show in and Dan, and to hear the Minneapolis on June 9th of last stories that all Dave’s year. This single day event was fellow brothers had to open to the public, and held at share. the Northeast National Guard Armory. The highlight of the The whole event started show was a section dedicated as an idea to get together strictly to Dave’s artwork, some with old friends, and of which were the originals reminisce on old stories from his friends’ collections about Dave and his that he’d given to them as gifts work. No thought was in years past. previously put into the idea of doing this again, but after hearing much praise Dave was known for depicting extraordinary choppers in his paintings, which then inspired many bikers to build their from everyone involved, the organizers have decided to own scooters based off his subject matter. So although the roll with it again this year, with the date slated for May 18th. They’re on the hunt for some additional David Mann event was not a typical “bike show” with awards, bikes masterpieces to display, and who knows, maybe some other artists’ work from back in the day? Rumor has it that a chopper pinstriped by Ed “Big Daddy” Roth, who gave Dave his first big job in the scene, is being resurrected to be on display. For more info, give Northeast Custom Cycle a call at 763571-5533 or e-mail at bikersinc@ netzero.com Nate 22 - TRMI APRIL 2013
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Model: Amanda Willis Bike: 2013 Harley-Davidson Tri-Glide owned by Jeff Swearingen of Harlan. Bike purchased From Loess Hills Harley-Davidson in Pacific Junction
Earth Day
TAX DAY
April Fools Day
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Penney Smith P S ih Des Moines 1992 1200 Sportster
Melissa Falkers Tipton 2003 V-Rod
L Moore M Lee Armstrong 2004 Harley-Davidson
L M Laura Moon Cedar Rapids 2012 Sporty Iron 883
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fellow riders share their stories of why they wanted to be a part of it. We had grandparents riding because they had a grandchild battling the disease. We had survivors riding because they had beaten the disease. We had a wife who had recently lost her husband so she learned to ride “his bike” from the front seat and she brought her entire riding family with her. A man and his wife came to ride, planning to ride with his brother but he couldn’t ride that day due to the effects of chemo. We had a father-in-law show up because his son-in-law had just received the diagnosis. Five years ago, I received a message on my answering machine We had people that had seen our flyer and just felt it was a good that went something like this, “Pete, if you still have a motorcycle cause. which I’m sure you do, there is a women’s ride Saturday, we are doing a progressive dinner, we are meeting at the park at 11 am On that day, an idea was born to set up a road side stand for supplies forgotten by bikers’ en-route to Sturgis, a free will BE THERE!” The message wasn’t specific to what park or in what town, but because of my relationship with the woman on donation with all proceeds going to Relay for Life team “Wind the other end of that message, I figured out where to be and Bags.” Throughout the day fellow riders contributed ideas to a arrived as I was told to. A very small group of ladies were list of items commonly forgotten or needed while en-route. We there to ride in our first “women’s ride”. After the first managed to pull off that event 4 weeks later. During the en-route to Sturgis event, we met bikers from all over the United States year, ladies started approaching us about wanting to ride with us but they weren’t sure if they could because who participate in Relay for Life, no one had ever heard of a they rode on the back seat. Front seat, back seat doesn’t Relay for Life motorcycle team, yet many of them shared stories really matter; they are women who love to ride. That about cancer touching their lives. was 5 years ago; the annual “woman’s ride” has grown in size and numbers every year and from that I know a lot about the “brotherhood” of the biking community. Here’s to the “sisterhood” of the biking community, the women. ride we formed a women’s riding group. We also The women who drag their husbands to the annual “Wind decided it was OK for the men to tag along; after all Bags Woman’s Ride”, the women I am proud to ride along side they are nice to have around when a bike needs push started or our windshields need cleaned. regardless which seat they ride in, the women I am honored to This year the Woman’s Ride will be July 20th call my friends. The real moral to my story is: I would have never started a out of Atlantic. woman’s riding group or put together rides to help others on my Last year our women’s riding own. I couldn’t have done it without the lady on the other end of that phone message. She is an inspiration to all women that group the “Wind Bags” ride. We don’t always see eye to eye and I frustrate her greatly decided to step it up a notch. by constantly trying to change things. But she has taught me a We had recently lost a dear riding friend to cancer. The Relay lot about giving to others, she has taught me about “riding for a for Life event was coming to town, cause” and she is always coming up with new ways to help others so we threw together a relay team in need. I know that I am better person because she has touched and molded my life. I lovingly call her “Sidecar Susie” or “Chief of women that love to ride. My Wind Bag” if I really want to make her mad. If you have ever met friend had heard about a relay her, you will never forget her. team of tractors, thought it was a cool idea and if the tractors could do it, the When I asked her why? Why put forth all the effort to organize bikers could too. So theses rides. She simply stated, “I think it’s cool that we were the we put together the first ones to put riding motorcycles into the Relay for Life event in our area. I think it would be even cooler if other women take what 1st Relay for Life we have done and create more women riding clubs and Relay for Motorcycle Fun Life teams or just make the love for riding a way to help others.” Run in our area. This year you can join along on Friday June 21st in Atlantic The turn out at that event was amazing! It Paula Jens aka “Pete Momma” was so moving to hear As the years in my life roll by, I realize more and more how much I have been molded and shaped by the people who have touched my life. Being a female biker, I have crossed paths with and developed relationships with many bikers from all walks of life, simply because I love to ride a motorcycle. Because we share the love to ride, I have built long standing, solid relationships with people that have brought so much to my life, I’m not sure that it can be described in words.
Thu Th under u nde derr Ro Roads Magazine M gazi Ma ziine of of Iowa waa on on Facebook Face Fa cebo ce book bo ok
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The Buck Snort 113 4th Street, Neola, IA 51559 712-485-9090 Mon - Thurs. 10:30 am - 8 pm Fri & Sat 10:30 am - 9 pm
will ride to eat Every so often the planets all line up to create a perfect storm. A trip to a conference that takes us in the area of a possible place to review, that very same place has been recommended to me by several people, the establishment is a regular advertiser,
consists of 3 1/3 pound patties, bacon, American and cheddar cheese. A triple burger sounded right down my alley (which obviously is an alley rated for “wide loads”!!)! Just when I thought I had my mind made up Lynnette reminded me that most of the recommendations spoke of the burger called Swamp Donkey. I’m certainly glad she spoke up, as always! The Swamp Donkey is a burger that consists of a 1/3 pound patty with brisket and cheddar cheese topped with onion rings and BBQ sauce. Burger and brisket... has a better combination been made? I think not. When this behemoth arrived I was quite literally speechless. When Lynnette asked if I was alright, all I could do was utter a phrase you will very rarely hear me speak, especially when pertaining to food. “I don’t know where to start!” was all I could say. Thankfully I was able to smash this “Empire State Building” of a burger and make it capable of being devoured by a mere mortal as myself. The only phrase I can use to describe the perfection that this combination of flavors bestows upon you is Burger Bliss!
Don’t pass up the opportunity to do some riding on the awesome winding roads along the western border of the state! While you’re there, put your nose in the air and follow that glorious aroma that will certainly lead you to The Buck Snort in Neola. It’s a stop you won’t regret!!!!
they are open and I’m hungry!!!! A perfect storm!!! (well, at least a series of great excuses to stop and eat!) Our stop for this month: The Buck Snort in Neola, IA. Where the heck is Neola? Ya, I know, I asked the same thing. If you travel Interstate 80 around Omaha you’ve probably been by it numerous times and never knew it (like me! They do have exit signs, but who pays attention to those if you’re not getting off the Interstate there??? Obviously I don’t.) Neola sits just west of I-80 south of the I-80, I-680 split. As a side note, while in the area check out the paved roads in the area. There is some truly AWESOME riding to be had throughout this neck of the woods! Speaking of awesome... let’s get back to the food!
Until next month, ride safe and eat hearty! Craig Little craig@thunderroadsiowa.com PS If you have someplace you think we should check out in your neck of the woods, shoot me an email.
The Buck Snort has a wide variety of foods on their menu. From appetizers to wraps, burgers to pizzas, there is plenty there to choose from. The first thing that caught my eye was the Monster Buck Burger which 30 - TRMI APRIL 2013
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MILITARY RIDERS
Veterans Hangout Hopes to Save Lives
soldier felt that suicide was a way out,” Emery said.
ALTA, Iowa (KTIV) -By Jacqueline Quynh, Multimedia Journalist
“We have puzzles, we have the TV here, you could put videos in, we have places you could read, play cards, play pool,” Deborah Emery said.
A U.S. military veteran commits suicide every 65 minutes according to a new report published this month by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
The Emerys have reached out to the community for support and donations; right now they’re working on getting signage for their building.
And, one Iowa family said they’ve lost too many in their own community not to do anything about it. “We thought that he was getting better and he was dealing with these issues, but as fate had it, he was not and he chose ending his life,” Gary Emery, Vice President of Veteran’s First said.
“They don’t want to talk to the wives or tell them the things that they’ve seen. There’s other people out here who have seen what they’ve seen, and talking with each other, will help them out I think,” Deborah Emery, Veteran’s First President said.
He said there are more Dillon Naslund’s out there, and that’s why he and his wife have opened up Veteran’s First in Alta, Iowa. A place for veterans to hang out.
They hope the center becomes a place for veterans to support each other.
But it’s not all about intervention. Gary Emery is an Army veteran, and said it’s Gary Emery hard to adjust back to civilian life after serving. wishes more could He hopes Veteran’s First becomes a place for have been camaraderie, and fun done to save Dillon for veterans across all military branches. Naslund, a longtime “We’re not counselors, and close or therapists, we just family want to be friends,” friend. Gary Emery said. “That was the second The center officially funeral that opens Monday, February I had been 18th. Most of the items to in the last were donated by the public. They say they’re 3 months, still in need of more that was volunteers. the same scenario; a young
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blast from the past
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From April 1954 Enthusiast
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The next night, the man appeared again, once more demanding to see Valerie. Valerie explained that no one had ever come back two nights in a row as she was wa too expensive. “There are no discounts. The price is A father walks into a restaurant with his young son. still $5000.” Again, the man pulled out the money, He gives the young boy 3 nickels to play with to keep gave it to Valerie, and they went upstairs. After an him occupied. Suddenly, the boy starts choking, going hour, he left. The following night the man was there blue in the face.. yet again. Everyone was astounded that he had come ffor a third thi d consecutive ti night, i ht but b t he h paid id Valerie V l i and d The father realizes the boy has swallowed the nickels they went upstairs. After their session, Valerie said to and starts slapping him on the back.. the man, “No one has ever been with me three nights The boy coughs up 2 of the nickels, but keeps choking. in a row.” “Where are you from?” The man replied, “ Looking at his son, the father is panicking, shouting Denver .” “Really,” she said. “I have family in Denver for help. .” “I know.” the man said. “Your sister died, and I am her attorney.” “She asked me to give you your $15,000 A well dressed, attractive, and serious looking woman, inheritance.” in a blue business suit is sitting at a coffee bar reading a newspaper and sipping a cup of coffee. At the sound The moral of the story is that three(3)things in life are of the commotion, she looks up, puts her coffee cup certain: down, neatly folds the newspaper and places it on the counter, gets up from her seat and makes her way, 1. Death unhurried, across the restaurant. 2. Taxes 3. Being screwedby a lawyer! Reaching the boy, the woman carefully drops his pants; takes hold of the boy’s’ testicles and starts to squeeze and twist, gently at first and then ever so ************************************************** firmly. After a few seconds the boy convulses violently and coughs up the last nickel, which the woman deftly catches in her free hand. A male patient is lying in bed in the hospital, wearing an oxygen mask over his mouth and nose. Releasing the boy’s testicles, the woman hands the A young student nurse appears and gives him a partial nickel to the father and walks back to her seat at the sponge bath. coffee bar without saying a word. As soon as he is sure that his son has suffered no ill “Nurse,”’ he mumbles from behind the mask, “are my effects, the father rushes over to the woman and starts testicles black?” thanking her saying, “I’ve never seen anybody do anything like that before, it was fantastic. Are you a Embarrassed, the young nurse replies, “I don’t know, doctor? “ Sir. I’m only here to wash your upper body and feet.” ‘No,’ the woman replied, ‘ I’m with the IRS .’
************************************************** The Brothel” “May I help you sir?” she asked. The man replied, “I want to see Valerie.” “Sir, Valerie is one of our most expensive ladies. Perhaps you would prefer someone else” said the madam. The madam opened the brothel door and saw a rather dignified, well-dressed, goodlooking man in his late forties or early fifties. He replied, “No, I must see Valerie.” Just then, Valerie appeared and announced to the man she charged $5000 a visit. Without hesitation, the man pulled out five thousand dollars and gave it to Valerie, and they went upstairs. After an hour, the man calmly left. 42 - TRMI APRIL 2013
He struggles to ask again, “Nurse, please check for me. Are my testicles black?” Concerned that he might elevate his blood pressure and heart rate from worrying about his testicles, she overcomes her embarrassment and pulls back the covers. She raises his gown, holds his manhood in one hand and his testicles gently in the other. She looks very closely and says, “There’s nothing wrong with them, Sir.. They look fine.” The man slowly pulls off his oxygen mask, smiles at her, and says very slowly, “Thank you very much. That was wonderful. Now listen very, very closely: Are - my - test - results - back?”
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C.O.I.R. Report
Coalition of Independent Riders
Michigan’s hard fought victory to modify their state’s helmet law to allow adult choice. It was beautiful and a good time was had by all.
This year, Motorcycle Rights Organizations in Nebraska and North Carolina have worked with their GET IN THE GAME legislators to craft legislation to modify their state’s helmet laws to allow adult choice. I encourage you In the August 2012 issue I wrote about my 4th of July to join me in applauding their efforts. If you’ve got ride through Wisconsin and for the first time for me, a few extra dollars lying around I’m sure those folks Michigan. I’ve ridden through a total of 16 states so would appreciate the help. The members of ABATE far. When I sit down and plan a ride, how do I decide of Michigan worked tirelessly for years to achieve where to go? their goal. Like everyone else I want to go somewhere I think will be a good time, nice scenery, nice riding weather, etc. The other thing I always look for is somewhere ‘biker-friendly’. I want to ride somewhere that understands that as an adult, how I dress should be my decision. I believe in freedom of choice and being responsible for the decisions I make. I don’t want or need the government to look out for me. If you choose to wear a helmet, I support your decision. All I’m asking is that you in turn respect mine. This idea of responsible citizenship and independence is nothing new. It predates the birth of our country.
We here in Iowa are fortunate that our legislature has, to date, chosen not to attempt to limit our liberty. Each year ABATE of Iowa works to maintain that freedom; their web address is: www.abateiowa.org. Also working to safeguard our rights nationally is the AMA; their web address is www. americanmotorcyclist.com. I encourage you to ‘get in the game’. Getting involved truly makes a difference, just ask the folks in Michigan.
Questions or comments? Send me an email: peter@ “Where government goes too far is in trying to protect riderpromotions.com us from ourselves” Ronald Reagan My friends and I chose to ride through Michigan over last year’s Independence Day to celebrate ABATE of
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This list is what we have found and what has been submitted. Before heading to any event, please check weather and make sure the event is not cancelled for some reason. Not responsible for misprints and typos. If you have any other events to list, please email them with Date/Name of Event/Location to vernon@thunderroadsiowa.com Mar 30-31 Swap Meet Sioux Falls, SD Apr 2 B.A.C.A Child Abuse Awareness Month Kick Off West Des Moines Apr 6-7 27th Annual North Iowa Motorcycle Expo Mason City Apr 6 ABATE D14 TGIS Party Bridge View Ottumwa Apr 6 Crazy Carl’s Poker Run McGregor Apr 6 Freedom Quilts Presentation Fonda Apr 7 Hill Blazers Hill Climb Logan Apr 12 Hawkeye HD Women’s Garage Party Coralville Apr 18 Loess Hills HD Young Adult Boot Camp Pacific Junction Apr 19-20 Motorcycles, Music, Mayhem at Loess Hills HD Pacific Junction Apr 20 Flood Run Lake St. Croix Beach, MN Apr 20 Crazy Carl’s Poker Run McGregor Apr 26 Motorcycle Safety Forum State Fairgrounds Des Moines Apr 27 Fenders Cycle Open House Extravaganza Des Moines Apr 27 Sleeping Angels Ride Boone Apr 27 Backroads Biker Leather Shoppe Open House Everly Apr 27 Memorial Run to Benefit JDRF Muscatine Apr 27 ABATE D15 Spring Run Off Davenport Apr 27 Non-Denominational Blessing of the Bikes West Bend Apr 27 19th Spring HOG Roast Zylstra HD Ames Apr 27 Bike Blessing Route 65 HD Indianola May 1-7 Hawkeye HD Customer Appreciation Days Coralville May 3-4 Vintage TorqueFest Dubuque May 4 F&J Racing 18th Annual Blessing of the Bikes Marshalltown May 4 Hawkeye Harley-Davidson Spring Open House Coralville May 4 ABATE Bi-State Awareness Ride Moline, IL May 4 Summer Kickoff/Patio Party Papa Joe’s Missouri Valley May 11 Roughnecks MC Charity Poker Run Gravity May 16-18 Hog Wild Rodeo Conesville May 18 National Armed Forces Freedom Ride Iowa Council Bluffs May 18 B.A.C.A Annual 100 Mile Ride and Party Des Moines May 18 ABATE D15 Blessing of the Bikes Davenport May 18 Crazy Carl’s Poker Run McGregor May 18 Maiden Voyage 10 Poker Run Dillon Bros HD Omaha May 18 Logan Classic Car and Bike Show Logan May 18 Crush Cancer Car and Motorcycle Show Des Moines May 19 Iowa Thunder Veterans Ride Des Moines May 19 Pearl Street Social Club Bike Show and Party Shellrock May 25 Main Street Bikes & Trikes Open House/Poker Run Granville May 25 4th Annual Poker Run for Pink Ponca, NE May 25-26 Midway Tavern 15th Ann Fun Run/BBQ/Street Dance Soldier Jun 1 Carroll Cycle Center Rock-N-Ride Carroll Jun 1 Jaster’s 8th Annual Ride for Life Elkader Jun 1 3rd Annual Charity Bike/Car Show Kimballton Jun 1 Vietnam Vets M/C Bike Blessing/Poker Run VA Hospital Iowa City Jun 1 4th Annual ALR Charity Ride Shellsburg Jun 2 Hill Climb and Swap Meet Anamosa Jun 8 Bubba Shuffle Run Book Ems Denison Jun 8 Sharp 9- Brain Aneurysm Awareness Ride Lampe’s Dunlap Jun 8 5th Bell Tower Festival Poker Run & Cycle Show Jefferson Jun 8 Easton Memorial Run Dillon Bros HD Omaha Jun 8 HOH Summer Bash Clinton Jun 8 Iowa City Eagle Riders #695 Poker Run Iowa City Jun 8-9 500 Challenge Sioux City to Anamosa Jun 8-9 National Motorcycle Museum Vintage Rally Anamosa Jun 12-15 Rally on the River QC Davenport Jun 13-15 Awesome Biker Nights Sioux City Jun 15 5th Audubon Fire Dept Poker Run Audubon Jun 15 Crazy Carl’s Poker Run McGregor Jun 20-22 Iowa State Hog Rally Clinton
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Tuesday Tu Tues ues e da d y Desperado’s Wheatland Gathering on the Grounds Fairgrounds (Selected Dates) Lynch’s Bar Rockwell City Wednesday Do Drop (Under the Water Tower) Jamaica Quaker Steak & Lube Council Bluffs Rusty Duck Dexter Joe’s Night Hawk Waverly OP Clear Lake Cadillac Jack’s Baxter Rides Bar and Grill Fort Dodge Thursday Roar Into Harlan (3rd Thursdays) Beer Barn and Grill Kirkman Screaming Eagle Bar & Grill Waterloo The Buck Snort Neola BJ’s Full Throttle Thursdays Waterloo Beach House Humboldt Ducky’s Lagoon Taylor Ridge Il. Kings Korner Grand Mound Daytonas Des Moines Throttle Thursdays Dillon Bros HD Omaha (1st Thursdays) McGrath Cedar Rapids (Last Thursdays) Friday Avenue of the Saints (2nd Friday) St Charles Spanky’s Bar & Grill Emerson Knoxville Bike Night (1st Friday) Knoxville Captains Quarters (2nd Friday) Adel Bike Down to I-Town (3rd Friday) Indianola Thunder Nites in Newton - Second Friday May thru September Saturday Winterset Bike Night (3rd Saturday) Winterset Von Tuck’s/Dave’s Place Oelwein Sunday Scooter Sunday 411 Main Griswold Haverhill Social Club (3rd Sunday) Haverhill Team 36 Mitchellville
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