THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE OF IOWA www.thunderroadsiowa.com P.O. Box 29 Kimballton, Iowa 51543 OWNER/EDITOR Vernon Schwarte (712) 249-5630 vernon@thunderroadsiowa.com
EVENT CORRESPONDENCE/SALES Eryka Driscoll Eastern Iowa 563-506-0389 eryka@thunderroadsiowa.com Susan Mast SC/SE Iowa 319-931-4546 susan@thunderroadsiowa.com Richard (Murph) and Annette Murphy West Central Iowa 641-524-4808 vizslaboots@yahoo.com Harv and Sue Hunter Central Iowa 515-205-7410 harv@thunderroadsiowa.com Mark Swearingen Council Bluffs/Omaha Metro 402-651-2471 mark@thunderroadsiowa.com Bob Colbert Knoxville 515-579-1343 thomasrcolbert@yahoo.com David McCoy Mason City 641-420-1171 david@thunderroadsiowa.com Marilee Millang Humboldt 515-890-9423 marilee@thunderroadsiowa.com Humphrey Western Iowa 712-592-1720 Jenn Chess Des Moines Jenn@thunderroadsiowa.com
Letter from the Editor ............................4 Wild 1 Bagger Apes .............................. 6 99 County Tour ......................................8 Biker Friendly Listing ..........................10 CMA ......................................................12 Road Ramblings ..................................13 Griffith Memorial Ride .........................14 Calendar ...............................................16 Girls of Thunder...................................18 From the Woman’s Seat ......................19 COIR......................................................19 Will Ride to Eat ....................................20 Military Rider ........................................22 Thunder Cam .......................................23 Joker’s Wild .........................................25 Blast From the Past .............................29 TRMI Events Listing ............................30 CONTRIBUTORS Netty Kawecki Copy Editor Nate Ullrich natanic@hotmail.com Craig & Lynnette Little-Will Ride to Eat craig@thunderroadsiowa.com 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
Monica Smithwick Sioux City 757-615-2398 Monica@thunderroadsiowa.com
www.thunderroadsiowa.com
TRMI NOVEMBER 2012 - 3
We have never really babbled anything political on our pages and I don’t know if I care to change that fact, but I would like to plead to the readership to get out and vote in the upcoming election. I feel that this election is very important on multiple levels and that for the future of our country we need to be able to stand up and be heard. The only way we can do that currently is by the voting process, so do your research, make informed decisions, get out and vote, and let your voice be heard. It does not matter what party you support, what candidates you prefer, or what issues are keys for you, but get out and vote.
at humor? Pretty sad I am sure! I would like to personally wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving. I know I have a lot to be thankful for, namely having a wonderful Thunder Roads Family to help me out with this whole deal. It is quite an undertaking to bring this to you each and every month. All the peeps on the previous page under the staff and contributor list, I offer a heartfelt thank you, without them, this would not fly. I would also like to thank you, the readers, as without you, we would not need to even think about doing this. Also, as always we would like to shout out to our supporters. Without the Thunder Roads Magazine of Iowa advertisers we would not be able to bring you this publication 12 months out of the year. We strive to be your source for biker related things to see and do in Iowa. Support our advertisers and tell them Thunder Roads Iowa sent you.
Until next time, ride safe and have a good one! We have the aforementioned right to vote in part because Vernon of the Veterans of this fine country. November 11th is Veterans Day so please give thanks to those that defend sometimes with their lives our very freedoms that we enjoy. The Veterans Day National Ceremony is held each year on November 11th at Arlington National Cemetery. The ceremony commences precisely at 11:00 a.m. with a wreath placed at the Tomb of the Unknowns and continues inside the Memorial Amphitheater with a parade of colors by veterans’ organizations and remarks from dignitaries. The ceremony is intended to honor and thank all who served in the United States Armed Forces. Not many of us have been able to attend this ceremony, but we can and should thank our Veterans every chance we get. Thank you from all of the Thunder Roads Magazine of Iowa Staff. The riding season is winding down for most although there are still the hardcore riders out there braving the cold temperatures. Stay warm, stay safe, and stay alert. Enjoy every last minute of warm sunshine if you can. Would love to have a warm weather drive winter like last year but also realize we live in the heart of farming country and that we need moisture to replenish the ground to make crops. So if we get a normal winter tear ‘em down and build them back up, make them better than before so we can enjoy spring when that roles through. If it is a warm and dry winter then I guess we will see you on the road.
ON THE COVER Bayliss Park in downtown Council Bluffs is the backdrop for this month’s cover. A beautiful fountain just behind this 2009 Harley Davidson Nightrain owned by Terry Roehr of Carter Lake, Iowa. His bike was the crowd favorite winner of the 2012 World of Wheels Show in Omaha..
That Turkey Day thingy is coming up again this month; I have been told it has been going on for quite a few years, as long as I can remember anyway. How was my attempt
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.
4 - TRMI NOVEMBER 2012
www.thunderroadsiowa.com
com The handlebars themselves are manufactured under strict guidelines, and these guys actually ride what they sell, From Stock Handlebars to Wild Ones WO577s so they know that the handlebars are the most important Changing handlebars on a motorcycle is one of the most part of keeping you in control of your bike. Failure in this popular modifications that are done these days, and one area is not acceptable, and they advise to make sure you that can offer a great increase in comfort and style. New know about the product you are installing. Cheaper is not bars can make a bike “fitâ€? your ride in both function and necessarily better when it comes to anything, especially appearance. This article will outline the high points of the your bars, and Wild 1 was one of, if not THE project, and is not intended to be a step by step firs rst name in fat bars. direction document. This is not a project Other than the bars themselves for the faint of heart, as there are many from Wild 1, the extra parts needed things that can and should be done to for installation were supplied by just prepare for the work, and will take H HD Bike Parts at http://hdbikeparts. a bit of mechanical knowledge, but co com or sales@hdbikeparts.com or it can be done in your own garage if 71 714-625-8541. These cats have the you have the time and wrenching skills cable and brake line kits and accessories ue required. If you know how to run a torque that yo you need to install your new bars. s, wrench, are familiar with wiring projects, Long Longer clutch and brake lines, as well as have basic mechanical knowledge, and wirin wiring kits if needed are available here, ems understand how braking and clutch systems you jjust have to let them know what you work, you should be good. If you are nott are putting on, and choose your finish. sure if you can complete it by yourself or with the help of They make it very easy and convenient to get what you some friends, best leave it to the professionals. If you are need coming your way. confident you can tackle the task, go for it, as working on Getting the bike stationary and secure is a great first your own ride can be very rewarding! step. Use an EZ Lift or other means to keep it secured, and First things first‌you are going to need upright if at all possible, will make things plenty of patience for this project! Do a little much easier. The first recommended action research on the bars that you want, as well as is to pull your transmission drain plug. If making sure you have all the tools, the parts you are reusing the oil, make sure you do required, the time, and the space to do the this first before knocking any debris into project. This little bit of preparation work can your clean drain pan. New oil is never a be the difference between a rewarding project bad idea though, but make sure you have and a dismal aggravation. Also check into some on hand. While the oil is draining, legality if installing bars that are considerably organize your parts and tools, and lay out higher than stock in any areas you may be a soft blanket or something to place your riding. High bar tickets can get a little spendy. parts on for safe and easy temporary storage. All of your maneuvering and controls are due After the transmission oil is drained, replace to the handlebars, so it goes without saying the plug, remove the right side saddlebag that there are definite safety concerns with a do and cover below the seat, remove the seat, it yourself project like this. You may or will disconnect the battery, and then remove the need: a service manual for your make/model, gas tank. If required to remove your exhaust the handlebars, clutch cable, brake lines and to get to your transmission side cover, now fittings, brake fluid, a means to bleed brake is a good time for that. Lay out the removed lines, transmission cover gasket, transmission parts on the soft blanket in an organized fashion. Remove fluid, wiring if it needs extended, any exhaust gaskets if the windshield and completely remove the three screws on exhaust removal is required, and any other items you find the top front of the fairing, then remove the outer fairing in your research. We found that it takes about 8-10 hours at by taking out the other four screws that hold it on from the the least overall for completion of the project, and it is not back side. Remove the switch and panel on the back side something you would want to rush through. Once you tear of the fairing, or the lower cap. This will expose about into this project, your bike is grounded until finished. everything you need to continue with the project in the This write up is about installing a set of Wild 1 Chubbys fairing area. The ignition switch is a trick to get in and WO577 handlebars on a 2010 Harley Davidson Limited, out, this is where the service manual can come in handy. as well as a 2013 Harley Davidson Ultra Classic. These Continue by unhooking the electrical connections to the bikes are full dressers with fairings, antilock brakes, throttle radio, unbolting, and removing it. by wire, and heated grips, so there will probably not be Next was dealing with the switch housings and all their any more difficult of an install than this. The only other components. Loosen the clutch cable adjuster, and then variable that could have made it more difficult is if the bars remove the clutch cable from the handlebar control. Next, were higher and would have required wiring extensions. remove the left side handlebar switch housing with a wiring Other models with fewer accessories would be considerably connector and set aside for further work. When removing easier. In researching handlebars, Wild 1 Chubbys had the hand grip that has factory installed heated grips, be come highly recommended, and are American made, which cautious with the wiring, it will unplug at the center of the is a definite plus in this day and age. The quality, style, handlebars and then the wires will have to be pulled out of craftsmanship, and customer service sell these bars. http:// the bars. www.wild1inc.com or (800) 337-8870 or info@wild1inc. 6 - TRMI NOVEMBER 2012
www.thunderroadsiowa.com
Next comes the right side switch housing with the “throttle by wire” sensor. Again be very patient while removing the switch housing, wiring and heated grip assembly along with unhooking the front brake hose on the right side. The “throttle by wire” system wiring also runs through the handlebar along with the heated grip wiring which again unplug near the center of the handlebars in the fairing. Next remove the brake hose that runs up to the front brake master cylinder. Be careful not to depress the brake lever after you open the brake lines. With the antilock brakes, if you get air into the system, it will need to be bled by a shop with the proper tools. With the handlebars now striped clean, they can be taken off by removing the four clamping bolts that are hidden under where the radio normally sits. Now you can remove the transmission cover where the clutch cable goes into and unscrew the clutch cable from said cover. You will need a new gasket, a longer clutch cable, and a longer front brake master cylinder to ABS module hose when installing the Wild Ones 577’s. The factory wiring is long enough by rerouting the connection points to make this installation work without extending them. Next, install new clutch cable and gasket and reattach the housing cover. Reroute the cable in the same position as the old cable. You may run the new clutch cable into the hole in the inner faring to be hooked up later. Then install the new brake hose onto the ABS module leaving the fitting loose. Now it is time to fit the Wild 1 WO577’s into place. After you have them clamped, where they need to go the next step is putting the switch housings back in place. There are numbers on the plug ends of the handlebar wiring harnesses plug, so you can then pull the wires out of the plugs so they can be run internally; another example of a service manual or the handlebar manufacturer’s website being priceless. Start with the right side, fitting the heating element and the “throttle by
wire” sensor into the end of the bars. The biggest challenge going back together is fishing all of the wires through the inside of the handlebars. Take all of the wires out of their connectors and fish them with a piece of mechanics wire very carefully. After getting the wires in place and the hand grip on you are now ready to hook the brake hose up to the master cylinder. Tighten that connection and then start filling with brake fluid while the connection at the ABS module is still loose so the brakes will gravity bleed. As soon as you have fluid at the ABS module go ahead and tighten that connection. On both motorcycles, the brakes were fine with no need for bleeding and no brake light warnings are present. Now for the left side, again I striped the wires out of there connectors and fished the wires through the bars. Fitting the hand grip into place and then hook up the clutch cable and give it a baseline adjustment. Finish by putting the fairing back together start by refitting the ignition switch and radio and all of the wire connections to their mates. After the radio is in place and hooked up make sure to support any wires that need it by tying then with zip ties. Now you are ready to refit the outer faring, the back side fairing cap and ignition switch, and installing the windshield. Now replace the side cover that hides the ABS module, and then reinstall the gas tank. Hook the battery up and refit the seat. Don’t forget to fill the transmission with oil and you will then need to fine tune the adjustment of the clutch. Time for the test ride; go a short distance, maybe around the block a few times and then check for leaks and make sure everything looks good. If there are no warning lights, issues, leaks, or visual problems, enjoy your new bars. They will make the bike feel and handle differently, so get a few miles on in areas of little traffic to get used to them. Mark Swearingen
www.thunderroadsiowa.com
TRMI NOVEMBER 2012 - 7
known as Gardners Grove. Soon after many families started to settle in the area but by the end of the year the population 99 Counties to tour on the bike, 99 counties to tour, take one was only 40 residents, half of that being children. down, drive on around, 69 counties to tour on the bike. A In the winter of 1856few years back, a summer riding goal was to ride through 1857 a renegade band of each one of the counties of Iowa, and what was found was Sioux Indians attacked a wealth of interest and beauty. Each month we will revisit the settlers around the each county as a featured article. We will tell you about lake, killing all but new things to see, places to ride, and give you a little spark four women. Later, of touring curiosity for our state of Iowa. two of the four women were murdered and the Dickinson County remaining two were rescued. For six days the ravaging and pillaging of settlements and the killing of livestock continued. Word of the “Spirit Lake Massacre” finally reached Fort Dodge. An expedition was launched to pursue the Indians, but the main job turned out to be burying Dickinson County, the smallest Iowa County in land area, the dead. is named in honor of Daniel S. Dickinson, a lawyer and senator from New York. The northern border is Minnesota, Following with intersecting Highways of 71 and 9. It is the home the of the Iowa Great Lakes, and the main attractions of the massacre Okoboji area are the glacier-carved lakes. This beautiful there was chain of lakes extends from the Minnesota border a large southwest several miles and covers approximately 15,000 acres. The Iowa Great Lakes include Iowa’s largest natural increase in settlers, especially in the summer. This second lake, Spirit Lake and five interconnect lakes: West Okoboji, wave of pioneers organized the county for independence. A petition was sent to the judge East Okoboji, Upper Gar, Lower Gar, in Woodbury County, a sevenand Minnewashta. Spring-fed West day journey by horseback, asking Lake Okoboji is a beautiful shade of for a separate organization. An blue and 134 feet deep. This is one election was held calling for county of the most popular vacation areas officials, and on August 4, 1857 in Iowa, and draws people from well Dickinson County was formed. beyond the Iowa borders.
99 Counties on the Wall
If visiting Dickinson County, one of the sights to see if possible, no matter what you ride is the Victory motorcycle factory. Victory
In the summer of 1856 Rowland Gardner came from Cerro Gordo County to settle. He and his family erected cabins, which came to be
8 - TRMI NOVEMBER 2012
www.thunderroadsiowa.com
Motorcycles is a motorcycle manufacturer based in Spirit Lake, which began production of its vehicles in 1998. Its parent company, Polaris Industries, created the firm to produce American made motorcycles. Victory’s motorcycles are produced with V-twin engines and touring, sport-touring, and cruiser configurations. The first Victory, the V92C, was announced in 1997 and began selling in 1998. Now there are many models of Victory motorcycles to fulfill most riders’ needs. With the Victory factory in Spirit Lake, a natural gathering for Victory and riders of other brands of bikes is the American Victory Rally. This event is held every year at Arnolds Park, and showcases many of the Victory motorcycles, parts, and people that love their brand. There are free concerts, rides, and factory tours. The event had its 10th anniversary this year, and is still going strong. It is a great event right here in Iowa that is open to more than just Victory riders. Some other things to check out while in Dickinson County include Historic Arnolds Park. Arnolds Park is the oldest amusement park west of the Mississippi, and is located right on the edge of the lake. The Iowa Rock N Roll Music Association’s Rock N Roll Hall of Fame is located here as well. Rolling along the roads of the lake shore will show you some very beautiful sights, some great food stops, and maybe even hop off the scooter and take a boat ride for a change of pace. Boaters do not see so many leather clad folks, so it could be fun! Next month will be Dubuque County, an eastern Iowa jewel on the Mississippi river. Photos courtesy of David Thoreson, Blue Water Studios, and Okoboji Tourism and Kym Mullins, Other sources available upon request. Vernon
TRMI NOVEMBER 2012 - 9
Biker Friendly Directory It’s important for you to Dealers know who your friends are out on the road! The Baxter Cycle 311 4th Street Biker Friendly Directory Marne, Iowa 51552 is a list of establishments 712-781-2351 throughout Iowa that want www.baxtercycle.com you to know that they’re Brown Motorcars here for YOU. Whether 330 NW 49th Place Des Moines, IA 50313 it’s a bike dealer, service www.brownmotorcars.com shop, restaurant, bar or 515-282-0123 any other type of business Carroll Cycle Center that welcomes our biking 1327 Plaza Dr Carroll, Iowa community, you can count 712-792-1610 on our family of friends to www.carrollcycle.com always welcome you in. Harley-Davidson & The staff here at Thunder Dillon Brothers Motorsports Roads greatly appreciates 174th and Maple Omaha, NE 68116 our advertiser’s support 402-289-5556 each month. WE WOULD www.dillon-brothers.com NOT EXIST WITHOUT Fenders Cycle and Motorsport THEM! So please give 1109 E Army Post Road Des Moines, Iowa 50315 them the support that they 515-256-9062 truly deserve for being www.fenderscycle.com with us & drop by to see Hawkeye Harley-Davidson them for a visit. Let them Coralville, Iowa I-80 Exit 240 know that you saw them 319-545-7495 www.hawkeyehd.com here in Thunder Roads. If Open 7 days per week you know a business that Loess Hills Harley-Davidson would like to advertise 57408 190th Street in Thunder Roads Iowa Pacific Junction IA 51561 712-622-4000 Biker Friendly Places, loesshillshd.com please email vernon@ thunderroadsiowa.com Nishna Valley Cycle
Bail Bonds
HONDA – YAMAHA – KTM Atlantic, Iowa 50022 1-888-577-6406 www.nishnavalleycycle.com
Iowa Bail Bonds 200 4th Street Des Moines, Iowa 50309 515-243-4411
Werner Cycle Works 14410 Frontier Road Exit 440 I-80 Omaha, NE 68138 402-894-3050 www.wernercycleworks.com
Biker Accessories Backroads Biker Leather Shoppe 305 N Main Street Everly, Iowa 51338 712-834-2999 www.backroadsbikerleathershoppe.com
Crispy’s Biker Apparel Cedar Rapids, Iowa www.bncbikerwear.com 319-241-0916
10 - TRMI NOVEMBER 2012
Whipp Sales and Service, Inc 701 S 8th Street Clarinda, Iowa 51632 1.800.477.0195
Food and Drink 14th Street Tavern 3418 East 14th Street Des Moines, Iowa 515-266-3446 M-F 8-2 Sat 10-2 and Sun 11-2 1889 Saloon 118 Broadway Street Carson, Iowa 51525 Find us on Facebook 712-484-3888
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
Amigos 280 North 1st Street Fort Dodge, Iowa 50501 515-576-0142
Excuses Bar 405 Main Street Malvern, Iowa 51551 712-624-8233 Excuses Bar on Facebook
Beaver Hut Pub Happiness is a Wet Beaver 307 East 7th Logan, Iowa 51546 712-644-6100
Foxys Bar 108 East Jefferson Osceola, Iowa 50213 641-342-3700 Visit us at facebook FOXYS
Beer Barn and Grill 226 State Street Kirkman, Iowa 51447 712-766-3395 Open Mon 4, Tue-Sun at 11
Good Sons 2815 Beaver Ave Ste 102 Des Moines, Iowa 515-681-5375
BJ’s Bar & Billiards 110 Ida Waterloo Iowa Home of Full Throttle Thursdays 319-234-9810 Book Em Dano’s 33 S Main Street Denison, Iowa 51442 712-263-9818 Mon-Sat 4-2 Dancers Nightly 5-1:30 Boxer Barbeque 722 Creek Top Council Bluffs, Iowa 51503 712-325-4227 Tuesday - Saturday 11 - 8 pm www.boxerbbq.com 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
www.whippsales.com Chop’s Old Bank 400 6th Street Waukee, Iowa 50263 515-987-3000 Do Drop Inn 403 3rd Avenue Under the Water Tower Jamaica, Iowa 50128 515-314-0783
www.thunderroadsiowa.com
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 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 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 O’Hara’s Steakhouse & Lounge 501 Ann Street Irwin, Iowa 51446 712-782-4545 O’Hara’s Steakhouse on Facebook
Off Sides Pizza 1119 Thomas Street Redfield, Iowa 50233 515-833-2900
The Middle of Nowhere 112 Main Street Cumberland, Iowa 50843 712-774-5425
Papa Joe’s 117 South 6th Street Missouri Valley, Iowa 51555 712-642-9015
The Sawmill Bar & Grill Now with a Full Menu 401 Main St New Market, IA 51646-3079 712-585-3601
Phil’s 20oz Prime Rib Friday Nights 9956 Swanson Blvd Clive, Iowa 515-270-0959
Tobey Jacks Mineola Steak House Mineola, Iowa 712-526-2078 Open 7 Days a Week Check Us Out on Facebook
Pines Steakhouse Oinkers Lounge & Grill 1500 E 7th Street Atlantic, Iowa 50022 712-243-3606 M-F 11AM-, S-S 4PM-
Vic’s Main Tap 304 Broadway Audubon, Iowa 50025 712-563-2122 Opens M-F 3, Sat 10, Sun 3
HARLAN-Pizza Ranch 613 Court Street Harlan, Iowa 51537 712-755-2262 Open 7 Days a Week
Where You Can Grab a Rack, And Not Get Slapped! Venture Inn Blencoe, Iowa 712-452-2205
Red Oak Tap 419 E. Reed Red Oak, Iowa 51566 712-623-4788
Wilson’s Tap and Recreation 1008 Story Street Boone, Iowa 50036 515-433-1395
Riverside Tavern 450 E Main St Lehigh, Iowa 50557 515-359-9998 Email:riversidetap@gmail.com 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
Guns and Ammo Dales’ Guns Buy-Sell-Trade-Gunsmithing 109 W Main Street Ute, Iowa 712-885-2671 rustyshot2000@yahoo.com Shooter’s Outlet 114 Main Street Arcadia, Iowa 51430 712-689-2772 Tues-Fri 2-7, Sat 8-3
The Gun Shop
300 State Street Guthrie Center, Iowa 50115 641-757-0738 Tues-Thurs 5-7, Sat 10-2
Healthcare/Wellness Sandra Grace Health Care Team 3481 Utica Ridge, Bettendorf, IA (563) 343-5344 sandragracehealthcareteam.com Massage, Hypnosis, Reiki & more wWll travel to your event or office
Insurance United Group Insurance, Inc. 2 East 6th Street Atlantic, Iowa 712-243-6557 507 Main Street Griswold, Iowa 712-778-2575
Photo and Video
Elite Auto Upholstery & Embroidery
Specializing in Motorcycle Seats 1313 Walnut Street Des Moines, Iowa 50309 515-276-4392
Ullrich Photography PO Box 1842 Clinton, Iowa 52733 563-243-8715 www.natanic.com
Joe’s Custom Signs 104 South Main Lenox, Iowa 50851 641-333-2675
Services
Award Winning Custom Airbrushing
J & S Custom Cycles 3630 Merle Hay Road Des Moines, Iowa 515-779-4632
BCS Computers 100 Industrial Road Guthrie Center, Iowa 50115 641-747-3344 www.brubakercomputer.com
Metal Ink 911 7th Street Ste 102 Harlan, Iowa 51537 712-235-2453 www.metalink.org
Hippie Boy Designs Graphic Design/Website Design 712-898-5220 hippieboydesign.com
Nelson Machine & Forge General Machining, Ornamental Iron, Weld/Fab 70 Washington Street Marne, Iowa 51552 712-781-2220
Joe Karsten-Authorized Dealer Cornwell Tools 329 West Street Manning, Iowa 51455 712-310-0765 mobile Signs & Wonders 101 W Main Street Lockridge, IA 52635-9708 (319) 750-0814 signsandwondersbysue.com
Revolution Cycles 120 South Main Street Baxter, Iowa 50028 641-507-9250 www.rev-ia.com
Southwest Iowa Sandblasting Mike Magers 65162 Oxford Rd Atlantic, Iowa 50022 712-249-3995
Steffens Cycle Shop LLC 1311 E 7th Street Atlantic, Iowa 50022 712-249-5876 M-F 9-5 Most Sat 9-12 Or Call
Traci Davis Real Estate Specialist 319-400-2000 traci.realtor@gmail.com Skogman Realty
Throttle Shop LLC 1988 Arion Avenue Arion, Iowa 51520 712-674-3325 throttleshopllc@gmail.com
TVC Home Improvements Certified Lead Abatement Contractor
XTreme Cycle & Off Road 206 E Main St Panora, Iowa 50216 641-755-4288 xtremecycle@netins.net
1422 Farnam Davenport, Iowa 52803 866-322-1754
Shops and Fabricators Tattoo Baggers MC 2632 9th Ave Council Bluffs, Iowa 51501 712-256-1791 Butterfield’s M.C. Parts 8025 Blondo Street Omaha, NE 68134 402-391-3768 Dead Heads Engineering, Fab, Repairs,Sales 426 Railway Street Gillett Grove, Iowa 51341 deadheadsmceng@gmail.com 712-835-3353
Crave Tattoo 201 S 12th Street Fort Dodge, Iowa 51501 515-576-8289 FB Crave Tattoo, Inc.
To buy ad space for your business or service or event in our directory, give us call at 712249-5630 or email vernon@ thunderroadsiowa.com
F & J Racing 701 N 3rd Ave Marshalltown, Iowa 50158 641-752-8651 www.fandjracing.com
www.thunderroadsiowa.com
TRMI NOVEMBER 2012 - 11
CMA Notes
Now that rally season is over here in Iowa, there’s one thing I can quit carrying around with me – hand sanitizer. Yeah, you tough guys can laugh, but you know what I’m saying. Going straight from the port-o-potty to lunch where you’re holding your burger with those same hands is way more risky than going without a helmet! And in case you haven’t noticed, your kids and grandkids have a new item added to their school supply list. You guessed it – hand sanitizer. I’ve even seen dispensers of hand sanitizer in cafeterias for people to use before they go through the line. Seems like everyone is worried about the same enemy; germs.
the idea that doing good will get you to heaven, and lays out good habits for us to develop such as ‘Do good to all men’. Last, it tells us some hard truth about spiritual matters, ie. What we do proves what we really believe. Don’t be trapped in the Dark Ages regarding spiritual truth. Find a Bible (I recommend the New Living Translation) and start your journey to spiritual health. Blessings – Karla Mark and Karla Cornick are Area Reps with the Christian Motorcyclists Association. Find out more about CMA and God’s plan for you at www.cmausa.org.
Unseen by the naked human eye, germs cause illnesses that range from annoying colds to life-threatening situations such as the flesh-eating bacteria disease. Even after the invention of the microscope when bacteria became observable and a whole microbial world was discovered, illness was still thought to have its origins in foul-smelling mist, or through the evil eye, or because of bad behavior, etc. It wasn’t until the mid-1800’s that the connection began to be made between unseen germs on hands and the spread of visible illnesses resulting from the germs. The refrain of “Don’t forget to wash your hands!” began to be heard from mothers everywhere. Even though we can’t see the germs, we have all felt their effects and seen the misery they’ve inflicted on others. You can identify the people who believe in the existence of these invisible bugs because they wash their own hands; they wash their kids’ hands; they give the stink eye to anyone who sneezes on them. Their belief changes their actions. In a similar vein the Lord allows us to have a peak through the microscope of his word into the spiritual world. Through the Bible he allows us to see the unseen and provides the spiritual sanitizer to combat the germs of a diseased world. The Bible shows us the origin of sin in Adam’s choice to disobey God. Because of his choice, we are broken people born into a broken world. It shows the cure for sin, Jesus Christ, who chose to obey God, giving us the freedom to make the same choice. The Bible disproves
12 - TRMI NOVEMBER 2012
www.thunderroadsiowa.com
Road Ramblings random thoughts of a scooter tramp I saw a t-shirt the other day that stated “Only a biker knows why a dog sticks his head out of a car window”. I’ve been thinking a lot about that stupid shirt, not sure if I’m insulted or flattered by it. While riding down the highway my thoughts kept wandering back to that shirt, when my twisted mind came up with one of the dumbest ideas I’ve had in awhile. I decided to try riding doggie style. It took about 5 minutes of day dreaming about the winter bike project before I actually mustered up a good mouth watering drool. Then I popped my head up over the windshield, stuck out my tongue and started to pant.
Lost in Iowa on two wheels, good indicator “wind therapy” is working. What a satisfying way to free the brain from the BS that comes with life. It’s amazing how you can forget what you do for a living while riding the open highway; unhurried, unbothered, living the dream, just straightening out the head while the knees are in the breeze.
When I started to enjoy the sunset, the chill of the night air and the deep rumble of the pipes, I realized my attitude adjustment had been successful so I pointed the bike towards home. While cruising along finally able to enjoy the ride, a big fat bug kamikazes into the windshield. I’ve The first time it went pretty good, but since I’m a slow ridden a lot of miles in Iowa but I have never seen bug guts learner, I just had to do it again and again. After doing this a glow bright neon green or so many of them. couple times, I came to the conclusion that doggie style isn’t meant to be done on two wheels. Needless to say, before After pulling the bike into the quiet darkness of the garage, arriving to my destination I ended up with something lodged I sat there straddling the machine that had managed to bring in the back of my throat; it was big and hard. peace to the turmoil of life. Enjoying how refreshed my mind, body and spirit felt. That stupid t-shirt crept into my After a rather awkward moment of having to decide to spit brain again after noticing the bug guts were still glowing or swallow I decided it was past the point of no return. I’m green. So I decided to try that doggie style thing just one not sure exactly what it was, but when it finally went down, more time. My sick mind just had to know if that neon I was left with a stupid look on my face and hint of mint in green glow tasted like mint, so I licked it off the windshield. my mouth. That was the end of riding doggie style and no That’s when I realized, bikers and dogs both understand the more reading t-shirts either, it just does too many strange benefits of “wind therapy” maybe that’s why neither of them things to my already warped mind. needs someone else to lick the wounds that life dishes out, when they can lick them themselves. Several days later, after replaying the lyrics “I got sick of my job, sick of my wife, sick of my future, sick of my life” “Wind therapy” a great way to clear the mind, restore in my mind for the five hundredth time during a single shift sanity, find peace and use up a lot of fuel. at work, the meaning of that stupid t-shirt struck me like a lead pipe to the back of the head. Dogs and bikers are the Shifty LaRue only living things that gain substantial benefit from “wind therapy”. Figuring that song looping through my mind was a sign, I clocked out at the drama factory then I packed up my bike and got some gas, and told everybody they could kiss my ass. It was time for me to hit the open road for some long overdue “wind therapy”. It only took a few miles to realize that this was a perfect fit for a bad attitude and a stressed out life. “Wind therapy” means, no destination, no time schedule, no planned stops, no entry fee, and preferable no company. Just pick a direction and ride! Ride hard, ride fast, no one else’s agenda to follow, no difficult decisions to make, stop where you please, stay as long as you like, then ride some more. Let the body function on auto pilot so the wind can clean the crap out of the head. Sometimes it takes a whole tank of fuel before I can think straight. I can burn up a lot of highway before realizing my auto pilot works like a cheap GPS system. I began to wonder how many turns I made and where I made them at? Which is immediately followed by the realization that I have no idea where I am at? This is of little concern because people have no problem telling me exactly where to go. www.thunderroadsiowa.com
TRMI NOVEMBER 2012 - 13
They Left for War and Returned Heroes “It’s not how he died that made him a hero, it’s how he lived” were the words set upon the backs of so many, the sun shining down as if a gift to all of those who were there to celebrate the life of SSgt Donald D. Griffith Jr. by gathering for the 7th annual Memorial Ride. And glancing around the crowd, it was obvious that those words on the t-shirts couldn’t have been more correct. I never had the chance to meet this hero we were all there to honor, and it didn’t matter to anyone. We were joined by riders who also had never met ‘Griff’, coming into Iowa from Chicago and as far away as Oklahoma. And although we had never met, I could feel how important it was to his family and loved ones that we were there to show support not only for this hero and his family but for all the other brave men and women who have served and still are serving our country. For that afternoon, we were all familyno strangers among us-riding our motorcycles in honor of all who were brave enough to put their life on the line to protect ours.
pretty positive over here right now. I haven’t been shot at in over 2 weeks, I guess that’s a good sign isn’t it?”. This describes exactly the way Don lived his life-looking for the positive in every situation and attempting to share that positive in every breath he took.
This Veteran’s Day we ask that you find something to do in honor of a soldier or veteran, even if you’ve never met one. Unfortunately war does not discriminate. Regardless of your personal and/or political views about war, always remember these brave men and women who have volunteered to protect us are our sons, daughters, mothers, fathers, classmates, coworkers and colleagues. They deserve our utmost respect, loyalty and support. There are many ways that you can show your support for our heroes. The Patriot Riders are always looking for new members; you don’t need to be a veteran, just be willing to ride your motorcycle (more info at www. patriotguard.org). There have been many local groups formed who run/walk/hike/bicycle together weekly to show their support and remembrance for those who have given the ultimate sacrifice, start one in your area and you’ll be surprised at the number of citizens who ask to join you. Take a moment to say “thank you for your service” when you see a soldier or veteran, our support is what keeps them fighting. Every branch of the military has their own Facebook page, acknowledge your appreciation on any or all of these pages. There are also many groups that will put you in touch with Over that 130 plus mile trip while admiring the yellowing our brave men and women who are currently serving, such as corn, winding Iowa roads and amazing skies above, I spent the “Letters to Heroes” program through Operation Gratitude much of the ride giving thanks for all that I am blessed with (www.operationgratitude.com) or the “Thank a Vet” program due to the sacrifices of all the heroes who have granted me through the National Veterans Awareness Organization (www. this opportunity to live free, breathe deeply and just be me. There were only 3 stops on this ride, planned this way so the nvar.us). If you happen to encounter a soldier in a restaurant or coffee shop, offer to pay for their meal. There are also focus could be on remembering our fallen heroes listening many legitimate organizations to whom you can donate time, to the roar of the pipes. I swear I felt every hero riding on money or items to including the Wounded Warrior Project my shoulder that afternoon as I quietly repeated “thank you (www.WoundedWarriorProject.org), Disabled American for your service” over and over. Freedom is their gift to us, Veterans (www.DAV.org), and The Soldier’s Angel program Remembrance is our gift to them. (www.SoldiersAngels.org) just to name a few. The ultimate That particular September day we were riding in the memory showing of our gratitude is to never forget-always make the most of every opportunity you are granted. Our freedoms of a true hero. SSgt Donald D Griffith Jr. gave his life to have been paired with the sacrifices of our soldiers. They did save the lives of his entire squad. ‘Griff’ made the ultimate so for all of us to be able to enjoy this great country. sacrifice on March 11, 2005 in Tel Afar, Iraq when his Stryker Brigade was caught under fire by enemy forces in a A Veteran is someone who at one point in their life wrote a sneak attack. ‘Griff’ was not scheduled to be on duty that blank check payable to the United States of America for an night; however, he volunteered to go out on patrol in place amount up to and including their life, regardless of personal of another soldier. He died a hero, defending the men and women he served alongside as well as our freedoms. He gave or political views. It is with great honor that I proudly stand his life for his comrades. In his life, he has been described as and salute you all today. Thank you to every man and woman who has signed their name to that check! ‘the perfect soldier’; one whose character was comprised of valor, bravery and sacrifice and he never allowed his rank to As always, ride safe! cloud his personal judgment. On one occasion, Don walked ~Pinky into the office of Army Brass. “Is there a problem soldier?” asked a high-ranking officer. “No, sir” Don replied with his patented smile affixed to his face “I am just happy to be Photos here.” And he was seriously happy to be in Iraq as well, Contributed by Brian fulfilling a duty he embraced. He was not only helping the Horak and citizens of Iraq but he was also helping the world to be a safer Big D place. In one of his last emails to his family he wrote: “It’s 14 - TRMI NOVEMBER 2012
www.thunderroadsiowa.com
www.thunderroadsiowa.com
TRMI NOVEMBER 2012 - 15
Model: Laurie Sinn from Clinton Bike: 1939 Harley Davidson Flathead Chopper owned by: Kerry Baker from Washington, Iowa Location: Nate Ullrich Photography Studio www.lyfebehindhars.com
Veterans Day
END of Daylight Savings Time
Election Day Get Out and Vote
Thankgiving
of Iowa
We want you on our pages! If you are an Iowa Girl of Thunder, send us your name, year and model of bike, and where you are from to vernon@thunderroadsiowa.com
Pat Pauley 2010 Harley Davidson Heritage Harlan
Annie Teut 2009 Fat Boy Ute
18 - TRMI NOVEMBER 2012
Debi Nicotero 2001 Harley Davidson Deuce Harlan
www.thunderroadsiowa.com
From the Woman’s Seat
Women riding motorcycles use to be taboo, if women were on a motorcycle they were viewed as a nice looking accessory on the back. Well this theory along with women belonging in the kitchen with a baby perched on their hip is no longer the way of the world. Women are riding more and more for many reasons. For me it was on my list of things to do, those who know me understand that. I took the ABATE safety course in Cherokee, Iowa over a very cold Easter weekend with my son, Trent, who was 15 years old at the time. What a way for a mom to bond with her son! I was and still am the coolest mom ever! We did this with the idea that we were just taking the course, nothing more. But within a month of completing the course I owned my first motorcycle, a 1999 Harley Davidson 883 XL Custom Sportster. This was not my bike of choice. I wanted a Harley Davidson Fat boy. I had admired the Harley Davidson Fat boy for many years before I ever thought about riding. But, the boys at the Roadhouse in Marne were quick to discourage me in starting with a Fat boy and guided me to the Sportster, what wise men they are. I traveled many miles with many different people on the Sportster. Adventures I could not have imagined experiencing without the sporty. After a few years of riding the sportster, I started to think about moving up to my dream bike “The Fat boy”. On a sunny day the first of July I was running errands and there sat a very yellow Fat boy in front of RT Motors in Atlantic, Iowa. I pulled in, they started it up and it was sold! My son Trent took over riding the sportster and I had my Fatboy.
C.O.I.R. Report
Coalition of Independent Riders EPA MANDATES E15 On 9/10/12 the U.S. House Committee on Science, Space and Technology sent a letter to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency addressed to Administrator Lisa Jackson seeking answers on the EPA’s recent decision to mandate that “consumers must purchase at least 4 gallons of fuel from certain blender pumps that dispenses both E15 and E10 gasoline” – ethanol blends. To date, NO MANUFACTURER has mass produced a motorcycle or ATV designed to operate on E15 fuel. The letter included a response deadline of 9/24/12 and to date, the deadline has been ignored. Unlike an automobile or SUV with a large fuel tank, the residual fuel left in a pump and hose could be detrimental to the performance of motorcycle or ATV engines. In addition, the use of E15 will lower fuel efficiency and probably cause premature engine failure. E15 burns hotter than gasoline. In engines not designed to dissipate that heat, like air cooled motorcycles, lawn equipment, snow blowers and the like, damage in the form of premature wear can result. Information I’ve received from Harley Davidson backs up the American Motorcycle Association’s concerns. Ethanol is a solvent that can dissolve build-up in the fuel system. Since buildup of dirt or surface rust in fuel tanks is fairly common it can logically be said that ethanol blends would dissolve this material and allow it to affect carburetors or fuel injectors. In addition, ethanol blends are hygroscopic, meaning they absorb moisture. Many Harley Davidson models use a vented gas cap, which means that the fuel could absorb moisture from the surrounding air. Ethanol blends are also more corrosive than gasoline. Long term effects could include deterioration of fuel tanks, rubber and plastic components and even aluminum or brass. Because higher ethanol blends are becoming more prevalent, riders need to be extra careful not to dispense any fuel containing more than 10% ethanol into their Harley Davidson. What if you make a mistake? If any fuel is dispensed containing higher than 10% ethanol, FIRST: DO NOT run the engine. The entire fuel system must be drained and inspected for damage.
I have been very welcomed into the community of motorcycle riders in Southwest Iowa, I have met wonderful people along the journey, including Vernon and others associated with this unbelievable magazine. Thank you to Vernon for dedicating a section of the magazine to women riders. To women of Iowa that ride, if you want to continue to be able to tell your stories and/or read stories submitted Whether or not you decide to use E10 (common ethanol) in by others get them to Thunder Roads Magazine. your motorcycle is up to you. By mandating E15 our unelected EPA bureaucrats who were appointed and supported Lori Richter by the President’s administration, are once again limiting our choices and limiting our liberties. They depend upon us to continue to ignore their attacks on our constitutional rights. Folks, it’s time to get involved. Please take a look at www. ama-cycle.org and sign up to receive their alerts. They make it easy to write your representatives, senators, president and even the EPA administrator. We are all busy, me included. That’s why I monitor what I call ‘watch dog’ groups that stand for what’s important to me. We need to leave our children a country where they can enjoy the same freedoms and liberties that our parents and grandparents passed on to us. Got some questions or comments, shoot me an email: peter@riderpromotions.com Peter Sieben Lt Commander, C.O.I.R of Iowa Legislative Officer, ABATE of Iowa, District 20 www.thunderroadsiowa.com
TRMI NOVEMBER 2012 - 19
Black Market Pizza
will ride to eat
2610 Northridge Parkway Suite 107 Ames, IA 50010 515-292-1111 Sun 11A-9P, Mon 11A-2P & 4:30P-9P, Fri & Sat 11A-Midnight
I’m going to make you an offer you can’t refuse! Try as I may I can’t seem to get that guttural growl used by the Capo Di Tutti Capi (AKA the Godfather) to come across in print! Oh well, you get the idea. A short while back Lynnette had spent a week in the Windy City, Chicago, on business. While there she had the opportunity to sample some authentic Chicago Deep Dish Pizza. We thought it might be kind of neat to see if there was anything that compares here in good ‘ol Iowa. Some friends had told us about a place in Ames that has really good Chicago Style Deep Dish Pizza; Black Market Pizza. Located in the heart of campus town, you’ve got to be paying attention or you’ll ride right by it! (I think they do this on purpose to reinforce the “Psst... Hey, buddy, ya wanna buy a pizza? “Black Market” ambiance, “Don’t tell da coppers where you got it!”) The seating area inside is on the smallish side but I would prefer to call it cozy. I would imagine that being in a college town most of their business is take-out so this size probably suits their situation well. The walls are adorned with photos of prominent Mafioso, most notably Al Capone (Chicago, remember?), and other Mafia memorabilia. There’s even a chalk outline in the Men’s restroom! While eating the founder and co-owner, Greg Harvey, came by to pay us a visit and see how we were doing. Not only is this good for customer service but it also helps him judge how he’s doing with the amount of toppings on his pizzas; topping left behind on the tray.. too much, a clean tray... just right! While there we learned about Black Market Pizza’s beginning. Greg hails from the Windy City but throughout his history, after moving from Chicago, he has had his share of ups and downs from being homeless and living out of a van to being a successful pizza purveyor. Through it all his passion has been for his pizzas and it shows in every pizza he creates that this passion of his is still VERY strong! The Black Market concept comes from a time in his life where the main stream had let him down once again and he turned back to his passion. During this time he was selling his pizzas out of the back door of his apartment in boxes he bought from another commercial pizza maker and turned them inside-out. I could go on and on about the history of Black Market Pizza but that’s not what we’re here for is it! On to the FOOD! Before leaving home we checked the web to get the address to plug into the GPS (ya, I’m pretty good with holistic navigation “Um... I think it’s this way!” but when 20 - TRMI NOVEMBER 2012
it comes to food and food in a town the size of Ames I don’t want to take chances). Turns out we not only found the address but they have a website as well, www.blackmarketpizza.com. Going there we were able to print off a menu as well and it turns out it was good thing we did. Perusing the menu we found that Chicago Style Pizza requires a 45 minute prep and bake time! I guess call ahead would be in order! We decided to have the Louie’s Favorite Pizza on their Authentic Chicago Style Deep Dish crust. The description in the menu does NOT do this pizza justice! The menu says the toppings are sausage, pepperoni, bacon, (yes you read that right... BACON!!!! meat candy on a pizza!!!!), mushrooms, onions and mozzarella cheese. Sounds delicious but then add the deep dish description... hand pressed corn meal crust filled with cheese and topped with chunky tomatoes and herbs! You see the Chicago Style pizzas don’t get a sloppy layer of pizza sauce on the bottom to make a mess and cause the mountain (yes, you read that right... mountain) of toppings to slide off in your lap! Instead they put fresh tomato chunks ON TOP of the pizza... what a concept!!!! And the crust.... HOLY CRAP!!!! I can honestly say that I have never had better pizza crust... ANYWHERE!!!! I haven’t even raved... er, I mean, talked about the toppings yet! The sausage is made there and is awesome by its self but add in the other toppings and it’s a flavor explosion! Oh, the bacon... it’s not just a shaking of bacon bits that you get on some other pizzas, these are FULL BACON STRIPS on this pizza! So now to answer the question, how does Iowa Chicago Style Deep Dish pizza compare with Chicago’s? Lynnette says: “This Iowa deep dish pizza is much tastier than the one I had in Chicago.” Black Market Pizza, check out their website at www. blackmarketpizza.com. Make sure and check their mobile website on your smartphone, they have links to videos and other fun stuff there! Also if you “like” their Facebook page you’ll get access to their “underground” menu! They’ll make you a pizza you can’t refuse! Tell ‘em Thunder Roads Iowa Magazine sent ya! 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.
www.thunderroadsiowa.com
www.thunderroadsiowa.com
TRMI NOVEMBER 2012 - 21
MILITARY RIDERS In honor of Veterans Day, November 11th, we are bringing you the story of a project for the Veterans; and not about anyone in particular. Thunder Roads Magazine of Iowa would like to thank all Veterans and their families for their service and sacrifice for our freedoms. We are eternally grateful for what you have and do for this great nation, and our hats are off to you.
Rock Island Arsenal and Illinois. In actuality, part of it is a former landfill, but to all involved, it wasn’t about what it WAS but what it WILL be. When the group made the presentation to the City in January 2011 as to the location chosen for the Friends of Veterans Memorial Park – Davenport IA, the Task Force decided that, rather than walk away since their jobs were “done”, they would CONTINUE working with the City to not only see the “vision” through to completion, but also to ENSURE its eventual total completion.
Veterans Memorial Park was publicly dedicated on Memorial Day, 2011 with the completion of Phase One and continues to be a “work-in-progress”. The work continues Last month we brought you to design and raise funds for what will be several “phases” David “Squatch” Jensen as of construction and years of work. our featured Military Rider. This month we would like to bring you a little story about David “Squatch” Jensen what Squatch has been doing to keep himself busy. Always President of the mind to serve, first our country, now his community Friends of Veterans Memorial Park and fellow Veterans, he has been a driving force behind a Davenport, Iowa Veterans Park project in Davenport. This has been a project years in the making, and is finally coming to be. Be a part of the dream, some 30 years in the making!! The City of Davenport has attempted, and failed, for over 30 years to build a park dedicated solely to ALL the men, women and K-9s who’ve ever worn the uniform of the United States Military or that WILL wear the uniform. In the fall of 2010, after a heated City Council meeting, the Mayor decided to form a Task Force, to work in conjunction with the City’s Public Works and Park and Rec Department, with the sole purpose of selecting a location for a Veterans Memorial Park. Every member of the Council and the Mayor selected one US veteran to sit on the Task Force. David was a part of the original Task Force and voted Chairman of such. After several months of analysis, debate, viewing numerous locations and discussion, the group settled on 43 acres of prime riverfront real estate, facing the
Our Mission Statement: The mission of the Friends of Veterans Memorial Park is to foster genuine recognition of our veterans in a setting that is conducive to recollection, solitude and personal prayer and reflection.
Please join us or donate today!!
DONATIONS CAN BE MADE TO: Friends of Veterans Memorial Park—DI C/O ALLVETS Memorial Association And mailed to: Friends of Veterans Memorial Park-DI 702 W. 35th Street Davenport, IA 52807 FOR A MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION TO JOIN THE FRIENDS OF VETERANS MEMORIAL PARK-DI Please contact: President—David Jensen (309) 2306138 Squatch266@gmail.com Secretary—Annette Wood (563) 5087738 arsk07@yahoo.com
22 - TRMI NOVEMBER 2012
www.thunderroadsiowa.com
www.thunderroadsiowa.com www. ww ww w..th thun und nd de errrrro oa o ad ds siio owa wa..c co om m
TRMI M N OVEM OV EMBE EM BER R 20 2012 12 - 23 23 TRMI NOVEMBER
24 - TRMI NOVEMBER 2012
www.thunderroadsiowa.com
I mowed the lawn today, and after doing so I sat down and had a couple ice cold beers. The day was really quite beautiful, and the brew facilitated some deep thinking on various topics. Finally I thought about an age old question: Is giving birth more painA Koala is sitting up in a gum tree ... ……smoking ful than getting kicked in the nuts? Women always maintain that giving birth is way more painful than a joint, when a little lizard walks past and looks up and says, “Hey Koala ! What are you doing?” a guy getting kicked in the nuts. Well, after another beer, and some heavy deductive thinking, I have come The koala says: “Smoking a joint, come up and up with the answer to that question. Getting kicked in have some.” So the little lizard climbs up and sits next to the the nuts is more painful than having a baby; and here is the reason for my conclusion. A year or so after koala and they have a few joints. After a while giving birth, a woman will often say, “it might be nice the little lizard says his mouth is dry and he is going to get a drink from the river. But the little to have another child.” On the other hand, you never lizard is so stoned that he leans too far over and hear a guy say, “You know, I think I might be ready to try another kick in the nuts.” I rest my case. falls into the river. A crocodile sees this, swims over to the little lizard helps him to the side, and then asks the little lizard: “What’s the matter with you?” The little lizard explains to the crocodile that he was sitting smoking a joint with the Women or Men....Blonde Jokes Are Fun: I was telling a blonde man friend of mine: “Christmas koala in the tree, got too stoned and fell into the river while taking a drink. The crocodile says is on a Friday this year.” My friend replied; “Let’s hope it’s not the 13th.” he has to check this out, so he walks into the rain forest, finds the tree where the koala is sitting finishing a joint, and he looks up and says “Hey you!” So the koala looks down at him and says:“Shiiiiiiiiiiit, dude ...........what in the hell is A woman phoned her blonde neighbor man and said: “Close your curtains the next time you & your wife in that water you drank?!!” are having sex. The whole street was watching and laughing at you yesterday.” To which the blonde man replied: “Well the joke’s on all of you because I wasn’t even at home yesterday.” Mike had been in police work for 25 years. Finally, sick of the stress, he quit his job and bought 50 acres of land in Alaska as far from humanity as possible. He sees the postman once a week and gets grocerA blonde man spies a letter lying on his doormat. ies once a month. Otherwise, it’s total peace and It says on the envelope “DO NOT BEND “. quiet. After six months or so of almost total isolation, He spends the next 2 hours trying to figure out how to someone knocks on his door. He opens it and a huge, pick it up. bearded man is standing there. Name’s Cliff, your neighbor from forty miles up the road. Having a party Friday night. Thought you might like to come at about 5:00....’ A blonde man was driving home, drunk as a skunk. Suddenly he has to swerve to avoid a tree, then ‘Great’, says Mike, ‘after six months out here, I’m another, then another. A cop car pulls him over, so he ready to meet some local folks. Thank you.’ As Cliff tells the cop about all the trees in the road. is leaving, he stops. ‘Gotta warn you. Be some drinkThe cop says, “That’s your air freshener swinging ing.’ ‘Not a problem’ says Mike.. ‘After 25 years being about!” a cop, I can drink with the best of ‘em’. Again, the big man starts to leave and stops. ‘More’n likely gonna be some fighting too.’ ‘Well, I get along with people. It’s all good. Thanks again.’ ‘More’n likely be some While creating women, God promised men that good wild sex too.’ ‘Now that’s really not a problem’ says and obedient wives would be found in all the corners Mike, warming to the idea. ‘I’ve been all alone for six of the world. And then He smiled and made the earth months! I’ll definitely be there. By the way, what’s the round. dress code?’ ‘Don’t much matter. Just gonna’ be the two of us.” www.thunderroadsiowa.com
TRMI NOVEMBER 2012 - 25
28 - TRMI NOVEMBER 2012
www.thunderroadsiowa.com
shout or grandpa might want Pitzer to get a Highway, hearing Penn Center device Methodist next time. Church, I give Cemetery, them Two Rivers cudos for Antique trying Motorcycle and hope Association; they enter what do these again items have in next year. My friends Gene and Rose just missed winning common? The the Blind Race. Good luck next year guys! Although the Penn Center Methodist Church located on Pitzer Highway, day wasn’t a total loss for them as one of their bikes won in south of Interstate 80, is where the Two Rivers Antique the bike show. I think the most hilarious event is the “Slow Motorcycle Association holds its yearly Motorcycle Rodeo Race”. I saw some pretty good sized guys on some awfully and Show. small bikes! Picture this, an early fall day, the sun is shining, the wind is quiet, and the colors are just awesome as you cruise this winding 2-lane highway a few miles south of the Interstate and you encounter a country church sitting up on a small hill, with a sight you won’t see every day! Parked in rows that completely fill the front yard of the church are every style of motorcycle that you can imagine, and possibly more variety than in previous years. After you pull in, park, and approach the church; you are
All in all, you just have to know that the riders that participated in these events, whether singly or with partners spent a good amount of time practicing to be as good at these events as they are. On top of that you have the cooperation required to do the partner events. I admire the skills that these riders showed. And they did it all while having a blast. The day is just a good old country picnic atmosphere with a rodeo and bike show for entertainment; what a way to wind the riding season down. Of course, we’re really not done riding, until it’s too cold or it snows, whichever comes first! Story and Photos by: Annette Murphy and Alyssa Clausen
not only greeted by friendly smiles and hellos, but the most wondrous of food smells, too! The ladies and a few gentlemen of the church put on a feed that rates right up there on my scale! As people sit back in their chairs with their refreshments they are in for a treat, the rodeo events. I think some of these events are designed for their comedic value alone. People continue the day with big smiles and great attitudes. The Side-Car Blind Ride is one where nobody is driving very fast. Participants ranged from married couples, to young and old; a Grandfather and Granddaughter team didn’t do too badly, but she’s gonna have to learn how to www.thunderroadsiowa.com
TRMI NOVEMBER 2012 - 29
Oct 26 Nov 4 Nov 9-11 Nov 11 Nov 16 Nov 22 Nov 23 Nov 30 Dec 1 Dec 9 Dec 12
B.A.C.A. HALLOWEEN PARTY West Des Moines Road MC Breakfast Brayton STEAM Marshalltown Veterans Day EVERYWHERE Carroll Cycle Center Ladies Night Out Carroll Thanksgiving Turkey Run Clinton Carroll Cycle Center Guys Night Out Carroll Cedar Rapids Chrome Divas “Santa’s Little Divas” Christmas Event Road MC Breakfast Brayton 833rd Chopper Raffle Party Ottumwa
2013 Jan 12 Jan 13 Jan 25-27 Feb 3 Feb 10 Feb 13 Feb 23-24
ABATE D14 Swap Meet TBA Road MC Breakfast Brayton Rod and Custom Motorcycle and Car Show Rock Island, IL Parts Girl Promotions Swap Meet Rock Island, IL Road MC Breakfast Brayton ABATE Lobby Day Des Moines 44th Annual O’Reilly Rod & Custom Bike/Car Show Monticello Mar 9 Flippin for B.A.C.A Flippy Cup Tournament West Des Moines Mar 10 Road MC Breakfast Brayton Apr 6 ABATE D14 TGIS Party Bridge View Ottumwa Apr 26 Motorcycle Safety Forum State Fairgrounds Des Moines Apr 27 Fenders Cycle Open House Extravaganza Des Moines May 3-4 Vintage Torquefest Dubuque May 16-18 Hog Wild Rodeo Conesville May 18 B.A.C.A Annual 100 Mile Ride and Party Des Moines May 18 National Armed Forces Freedom Ride Iowa Council Bluffs May 25-26 Midway Tavern 15th Annual Fun Run, BBQ, Street Dance Soldier May 31-Jun 2 Iowa Grand Motorcycle Rally Newton Jul 4-6 ABATE Freedom Rally Algona Aug 1-3 6th Annual Across the Border Raid Bedford Aug 24 B.A.C.A of Central Iowa Bike Bash 2013 Aug 29-Sep 1 Circle of Pride Thunder In the Sand Conesville Aug 31 Sep 1 Midway Tavern Soldier Valley Run BBQ, Street Dance Soldier
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
30 - TRMI NOVEMBER 2012
www.thunderroadsiowa.com
www.thunderroadsiowa.com
TRMI NOVEMBER 2012 - 31