Mid-Atlantic Thunder Roads

OWNER / EDITOR 1920 Centerville Turnpike, Suite 117-270

SALES: Virginia Beach, VA 23464
Office phone: (757) 831-2264
Kelly Werrell Email:kelly@thunderroads-virginia.com
Website: www.thunderroads-virginia.com
www.myspace.com/thunderroads_virginia

Thunder Roads Crew

SALES CREW ROAD CREW
For information about advertising in Thunder Roads
Mid-Atlantic, visit the Advertising page of our
website www.thunderroads-virginia.com or contact Webmaster
any of our Sales Crew listed below. William C. Frohmiller
www.WCFStudios.com
Covering the Mid-Atlantic region in the states of
Virginia, Maryland & DC
Layout & Design
Regina Alpaugh (434) 981-9921 Warren Ells – Art Director, Thunder Publishing
regina@thunderroads-virginia.com Rod the Magificent – Ad Designer
(Charlottesville & surrounding areas in Northern VA)

Melissa Ashcraft (757) 406-0171 On Eagles Wings

melissa@thunderroads-virginia.com Reverend Rocky Angone
Preacher Rick Saunders
William Day “Wild Bill” (804) 814-8498
Thunderroadswildbill@yahoo.com Pastor Tammy Hayes
(Richmond & surrounding areas)
Sound Check
William C. Frohmiller (757) 416-2410 Cathy “BZgal” Clare & Chris “Tigger” Rockhill
www.WCFStudios.com
webmaster@thunderroads-virginia.com Laurie Schober

Chris “Coyote Killer” Holden (757) 803-5697 Tech Tips

GFYChris@thunderroads-virginia.com
Aaron Johnson
(Hampton Roads & surrounding areas including the
Peninsulas & the Eastern Shore) thunderroadsaaron@yahoo.com

Chad Quinn (540) 493-0813 Writers/Photographers

chad@thunderroads-virginia.com
Beth Albert
(Roanoke & surrounding areas)
Bo Albert
Laurie Schober (757) 449-1834 Regina Alpaugh
laurie@thunderroads-virginia.com Melissa Ashcraft
Cathy “BZgal” Clare
Kelly Werrell (757) 831-2264 Ricky Derby
kelly@thunderroads-virginia.com
William C. Frohmiller
Special Thanks to: Warren Ells - our wonderfully Chris “Coyote Killer” Holden
talented layout guy who designs our pages & puts Becky Lawson
all the pieces together for us each month, Rod
The Magnificent - for his killer ad designs & Bill Chad Quinn
of WCFStudios.com, our webmaster, who keeps Chris “Tigger” Rockhill
our site rockin’ on the web. Also many thanks to Dave Sutton
all of our readers, advertisers & those of you out Kelly Werrell
there that spread the word or pass a magazine to Tim Wilmoth
a friend who’s never heard of us before - You ALL
are what keeps the Thunder rolling through the William “Wild Bill” Day
Mid-Atlantic!
 CONTENTS
Calendar Of Events............................................4
Proud To Be An American..............................8
Hot Shots..............................................................12
KISS.....................................................................15
Clubs & Organizations..................................23
The Joker’s Wild..............................................28
Biker Friendly Directory..............................32
NCOM News Bytes..........................................36
On Eagle’s Wings.............................................39
Advertisers Index..........................................40
NATIONAL FOUNDERS
Toni McCoy Shearon & Brian Shearon
1421 Chapmansboro Road
Chapmansboro, TN 37035
Corporate Office: 615-792-0040
Fax: 615-792-7580
e-mail: thunderroads@charter.net
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. NO PART OF ITS CONTENT MAY BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT
WRITTEN PERMISSION. PUBLISHER ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY AND IS NOT TO BE
HELD LIABLE FOR ERRORS BEYOND THE COST OF THE SPACE OCCUPIED BY THE ER-
ROR, SLANDER OF ANY GROUP OR INDIVIDUAL, FAILURE TO PRODUCE ANY ISSUE AS
SCHEDULED DUE TO REASONS BEYOND OUR CONTROL, ANY AND ALL SUITS FOR LI-
ABLE, PLAGIARISM, COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT AND UNAUTHORIZED USE OF A PER-
SON’S NAME OR PHOTOGRAPH. OPINIONS AND CLAIMS MADE BY ADVERTISERS AND
AUTHORS ARE THEIR OWN, AND DO NOT NECESSARILY REPRESENT THE POLICY OF
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE OR THUNDER PUBLISHING. PUBLISHER DOES NOT PRO-
MOTE THE ABUSE OF ALCOHOL OR OTHER DRUGS.
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
Hey everyone! The month of September always brings on
changes for most of us with the kids going back to school and the
daylight hours gradually getting shorter. Life is full of changes &
challenges anytime of year – always keep yourself prepared because
sometimes those changes that we get faced with can either “make
us” or “break us”. I know many people going through some very
rough times right now with their job situation, family/home issues and
personal relationships. Sometimes looking at everything all at once
can be extremely overwhelming. Taking care of the most important
things 1st & then tackling the rest, one at a time, helps a lot. I try
to look at life’s challenges as being on a bike ride. It is definitely
easier if the road is smooth & straight so that you can ride almost
effortlessly on your journey. Even coming across a few curves here
& there isn’t too bad. Not that we choose to, but sometimes life can
bring you to a ride a lot like the Tail of the Dragon – those of you
who have ridden the “Dragon” know exactly what I’m talking about.
It’s a thrill ride for many bikers & they go back to it time & time again
just for the rush. Its one sharp curve & turn after another for many,
many miles. It requires your undivided & focused attention the entire
trip. You have to hang on tight, keep yourself at a safe speed & use
your better judgment to make it safely through it. There are places
that you can stop to take a break so you can map out how far you’ve
come & still have yet to go. This is not an advertisement for the
“Dragon” by any means but I wanted to share with you all how to
possibly look at & deal with life’s challenges when you find yourself
faced with what seems to be endless sharp turns. Just go through
one turn at a time, taking a break occasionally to see how far you’ve
gone & prepare yourself for the next leg of your trip. Eventually, you
will make your way through. When you do, you’ll feel great about
your accomplishment & will be a stronger person for it. You can do
anything if you just put your mind to it.
Here at Thunder Roads, my staff & I are always so grateful for the
support that we receive from all of the businesses that advertise with
us. I know I mention this quite often, but we want everyone to know
that our advertisers are the ones who make this magazine possible
to reach you every month of the year. Yes, our Crew works as a
team to put this together for our readers but it’s the advertising dollars
from the businesses that place ads with us that pays for the entire
production of our magazine. They are the ones who are keeping it
FREE for you. The more advertisers we have, the more magazines
we can print each month to reach more riders. We’ve been out on
the road for our motorcycle communities for over 7 years now &
with the support from our current & future advertisers, we plan on
ALWAYS being out there for you. I highly encourage you to stop in to
visit them, buy a little (or a lot) of something & let them know that you
saw them in Thunder Roads – this is a great way to say “Thank You”
to them for helping to bring our magazine to you.
Speaking of saying “Thank You”…I’d like to remind you all that next
month is “BIKER APPRECIATION MONTH”. We started this 3 years
ago as a way to honor & say a big THANK YOU to the bikers of the
Mid-Atlantic for all that they do throughout the year to raise money
to help others. We’re encouraging all “biker friendly” businesses to
offer you a special “something” next month in appreciation of your
kind hearts & generosity. The October 2009 issue’s front cover &
Proud To Be An American pages will be
dedicated to YOU…hope you’ll join us for
this very special edition of Thunder Roads.
Peace, love & happiness to you
always…stay safe on your roads!
Kelly

SEPTEMBER
Sept 3rd
Fundraiser for April Brenner
Norfolk, VA Held at Bar Norfolk in Norfolk, VA. Visit http://
www.FuzionInk.com for details
Sept 4th – 6th 9th Annual Outer Banks Bike Show
Grandy, NC Bike Show, Vendors, Bands, Great Food, Cold
Beer, Bike Games. This event benefits the Navy Seals and
Victory Junction Gang Camp. Your support will help our military
families and also help critically ill children. We appreciate your
continued help and support for this great event - This is our
9th year! FREE vendor space - We are asking that vendors
make a tax deductible donation to the Naval Special Warfare
Foundation. For availability, call 252-453-2261 (Restaurant)
or Email: BarryOBX@compueasy.com. Event location: Barry’s
Walnut Island Restaurant, 169 Walnut Island Blvd., Grandy
North Carolina 27939. Lodging accommodations visit www.
walnutisland.com. Camping is available – email BarryOBX@
compueasy.com. For more info visit www.barrysbikerally.com
Sept 6th 6th Annual Pirate's Run
Elizabeth City, NC $1000 to the Pirate with the key to the
Treasure Chest. Live Music, Food, Vendors, Tattoo Contest,
Tons of Door Prizes. Outer Banks Harley-Davidson, Elizabeth
City, NC. Benefits Camp Celebrate-Camp for burn injured
children. www.outerbankshd.com 252-338-8866
Sept 7th
Labor Day
Sept 11th
Patriot Day
Sept 5th
3rd Annual Colonial Parkway Bike Run
Norfolk, VA DJ Hollywood’s. Meet at the Harbor Inn at
10:30 am (Norfolk, VA). Ride starts at 11:00 am. Party
at the Harbor Inn after the run. For more info call DJ
Hollywood-757-235-5424, Harbor Inn-757-588-9687. ALL
BIKERS ARE WELCOME
Sept 12th
SRMC’s Disabled American Vets Poker Run
Camden, NC The Southern Riders Motorcycle Club will
sponsor our 3rd. annual Poker Run and Auction for the
Disabled American Vets of Elizabeth City NC. Food, Drink,
50/50 and auction. Register 10am to 11:30 am starting at the
SRMC Club house at the intersection of Rt.158 and Rt.34 in
Camden North Carolina. For more info call Gman @ 252-722-
2943 or Strings @ 252-216-7004
Sept 12th
Valley Thunder XVI
Staunton, VA *Premiere of 2010 line of motorcycles *Food
& Beverage Vendors *Huge sales throughout dealership.
Shenandoah Harley-Davidson/Buell, 213 Rolling Thunder Lane,
Staunton, VA 24401, 540-213-RIDE. Visit www.shenandoahhd.
com for details
Sept 12th
Second Annual Special Bikers for Special Olympics -
Farmville, VA This event has two poker runs. Both poker runs
begin at Fireman’s Sports Arena on Zion Hill Road in Farmville.
Registration begins at 9:00 am. Riders go out on the first run at
10:00 am and the second poker run begins at 11:00 am. There
is a $250.00 purse for each run. The ride ends with a bike
show. The entry fee is $10.00 per bike. There will be awards
for best in show. There will also be a 50/50 drawing, food, bike
wash, door prizes, dance and more. For more information call
(434) 315-8929,, or go to http://www.ccusa30.com.
Sept 12th
Hampton Roads H-D New Model Open House - Yorktown,
VA Visit www.hrhd.com for details or call
(757) 872-7223
Sept 17th – 20th
DelMarVa Bike Week
Ocean City, MD Delmarva Bike Week - four monster locations
around Ocean City, Md. at Harley- David son of Ocean City,
Harley- David son of Seaford (De.), Winter Place Park,
Salisbury and Seacrets Niteclub, Ocean City. More than 200
vendors, celebrities, manufacturers, custom builders, charity
rides, bands, thrill shows, FREE CTM Customs custom bike
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 4
List your event free @ www.thunderroads-virginia.com
giveaway, FREE Truckin’ America trailer giveaway, win big
money with the Cruzin’ The Coast Pin Run, more. www.
delmarvabikeweekcom
Sept 17th – 20th
8th Annual Atlantic Bike Week Party
Ocean City, MD Join us for the 8th Annual Atlantic Bike Week
Party at the Atlantic Hotel in Ocean City, MD. 3 Full days
of Music, Food & Fun! Live Bands featuring Thunderfoot &
The Blue Lords. Burnout Pit, T-shirts & much more. Vendors
Wanted!! Don’t miss out on all the FUN! Atlantic Hotel,
Boardwalk & Wicomico Street, Ocean City, MD, 410-289-9111,
1-800-3-ATLANTIC, www.atlantichotelocmd.com
Sept 19th
Southside H-D New Model Open House
Virginia Beach, VA Info 757-499-8964 www.hrhd.com
Sept 19th
2nd Annual Fall Motor Show
Elizabeth City, NC Cars, Trucks & Motorcycles-All models
welcome. Food, Music, Trophies. Outer Banks Harley-
Davidson, Elizabeth City, NC/US 17 South.www.outerbankshd.
com 252-338-8866
Sept 19th
3rd Annual Jim Orange Memorial Poker Run
Brandy Station, VA Culpeper Chapter ABATE of Virginia will
host the 3rd Annual Jim Orange Memorial Poker Run Saturday,
September 19, 2009. Run starts at AJ’s Grocery & Deli, 19417
Brandy Rd, Brandy Station, VA, (Right off the Rte 29 Brandy
Station exit). Sign up from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. $15 per
hand, cash prizes. Proceeds to benefit the Culpeper Food
Closet.RD
Sept 20th
A Day in the Country Smithfield, VA / Isle of Wight County Fair
Smithfield, VA Registration 9 am to 10:30 am. American
Legion Post 49, 818 S. Church St., Smithfield, VA 23430.
A Day in the Country Kurt Beach Benefit Motorcycle Ride
Shotgun Start Poker Run / Last Bike out at 10:30. Final
Destination is the Isle of Wight County Fair! Come see all the
Fair Attractions plus National Recording Artist Confederate
Railroad. Cost $20 rider / $10 passenger. (Fair Admission is
included). Check out our web site at: www.thefairiscoming.com.
Or contact: 757-365-6325.
Sept 20th
3rd Annual Pony Run
Harbinger, NC Music, Food, Vendors, Poker Run. To Benefit
the Corolla Wild Horse Fund. Kitty Hawk Harley-Davidson,
Harbinger, NC. www.kittyhawkhd.com 252-491-2091
Sept 20th
Dirt Drags @ Slade’s Park
Surry, VA Gates open 9 a.m. Admission $15, kids under
10 not racing are FREE. Free vendor setup - please call 1st.
Trophies & Cash-All Classes. Top Fuel at it’s Best-Pro Gas/
Dirt Bikes. No Colors - No Glass - No Dogs!!! For info call Joe
Brookman (804)221-3959. Rain date Sept. 27th.
Sept 20th
Riders Against Diabetes Poker Run - Gloucester VA
Team DreamCatchers is having a Poker Run to raise money
and awareness for Diabetes. Several of us live with this
deadly disease everyday, please help us fight it. Registration
starts at 10:30am, first bike out at noon. $10 Per Rider, $5
per passenger, $5 for extra hand. Start and finish at Damon’s
Sport’s Bar and Grille Rt. 17 Gloucester, Va. Stops at Big
Daddy’z Cycles in Hayes, Revolutionary Harley Davidson in
Williamsburg and West Point stop to be determined. Prizes for
best and worst hands. We will have raffles, 50/50 and a DJ.
Email any questions to: dreamcatchers.ada@gmail.com
Sept 20th
Desperado’s M.C. Hope Haven Poker Run – Chesapeake
& Suffolk VA Poker Run To Benefit Hope Haven.This is a local
organization that helps people in our community.Music and
food $5.00 per person admission.Start at Jokers Bar and Grill
9:30-11:00.Ending at Randzz Rt.58 Suffolk V.A.For info call
757-287-9641
Sept 22nd
1st Day of Fall
Sept 26th
4th Annual Superkids Bike & Car Show
Prince George, VA 4th Annual Superkids Bike & Car Show
from 9 AM - 5 PM at Prince George High School located at
7801 Laurel Springs Road, Prince George, VA 23875. This is
a Judged Show! $5,000 in CASH AWARDS. Dash plaques to
1st 200 registered. 25 Car/Truck Trophies, 14 Bike Trophies,
and a total of 60 Plaques, with 20 in early to 1954, 20 in
1955-1972, and 20 in 1973-Present classes. Pre-registered
only $20 before September 12th. $25 afterward. Drawing for
pre-registered $100 gas card. Goody bags, live auction, raffles,
50/50’s, food, DJ, Miss VA 2009, dunking booth, face painting,
and more. Sponsored by Hopewell-Prince George Civitan
Club. All proceeds to benefit Superkids Group Home Project.
Vendor spaces available. $30 for 10x10. Auto vendors spaces
$35 with space as needed. Info: Morris Hudgins 804-919-4246
or 804-458-8216. Vendor info call Julia Skeens 804-722-1511.
Superkids Ministries Web site: http:// www.skmi.org
Sept 26th
Bikers for Babies-March of Dimes Ride
Portsmouth, VA Live Music, Food, Ride Pin, Vendors.
Bayside Harley-Davidson, Portsmouth, VA. www.baysidehd.
com 757 397-5550
Sept 26th
New Model Year Open House
Ft Washington, MD
Harley-Davidson of Washington, DC will be celebrating the
New Model Year with an event-filled day. Food, entertainment,
sales, contests and a great time! 9407 Livingston Rd. Ft
Washington, MD 20744. www.hdwash.com, phone 301-248-
1200, 10am to 4pm.
Sept 26th
Ride to Forget-Me-Not 2009 Poker Run
Colonial Heights, VA Get out your motorcycle and join the Tri-
Cities Alzheimer’s Association and the Red Knights for food,
fun, and prizes at the Third Annual Ride to Forget-Me-Not
Poker Run. The ride begins and ends at Fort Clifton Park in
Colonial Heights. Check in and on-site registration begins at
8:30am and the first bike heads out at 9:00am. All proceeds will
go to benefit the mission and programs of the Tri-City Alzheimer’s
Association to help patients of Alzheimer’s and their caregivers.
Registration fee is $15 per bike and additional $5 for a companion
rider. Register or find out more by contacting judy.tyree@alz.org.
com (804)526-2359 or go to our website at http://www.alz.org/grva
Sept 26th
Boy Scouts of America Charity Ride
Portsmouth, VA The Virginia Rider Training Program is
sponsoring its first annual Charity ride. This years charity
will be the Boy Scouts of America. Riders will meet at the
TCC Campus in Portsmouth between 8am and 9am on
26 September. The rider will begin between 915 and 930.
Cost of the ride is $25.00 per bike (1 or 2 riders) and will
include lunch at Pierces BBQ in Williamsburg. The ride is
set to be approximately 120 miles. POC is Stan Wilcox at
wilcoxstanley@yahoo.com.
Sept 30th – Oct 3rd
Myrtle Beach Bike Days
Myrtle Beach, SC
www.myrtlebeachbikeweek.com
OCTOBER
Sept 30th – Oct 3rd
Myrtle Beach Bike Days
Myrtle Beach, SC
www.myrtlebeachbikeweek.com
Oct 3rd
Clifford Ruritan Old Fashioned Sorghum Festival – Clifford,
VA Come see the Ruritans cook Old Fashioned Sorghum
Molasses and Brunswick Stew in the village of Clifford, Virginia.
Watch the VA State Championship Jousting Tournament. See
and talk with Civil War reenactors. Enjoy food, music, dancing,
entertainment, arts & crafts, antiques, gifts, collectibles,
jewelry, quilts, wood crafts, garden ornaments & more!
Proceeds benefit local community charities. Free admittance,
$5 parking for cars, $1 motorcycle parking (It’s a BEAUTIFUL
ride!). State Road 610, between Hwy 29 and SR151, 755
Fletchers Level Road, Clifford, VA, 24533
(434) 946-2208

Oct 3rd
Hampton Roads H-D 31st Anniversary
Yorktown, VA Visit www.hrhd.com for details or call
(757) 872-7223
Oct 3rd
Poker Run for St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital
Prince George, VA Poker Run to benefit St. Jude’s Children’s
Hospital will be held rain at shine on Saturday, Oct. 3rd, 2009
from Colonial Harley Davidson, 1701 Temple Ave., Prince
George, Va. 23875, . Registration starts at 9:30 a.m., first bike
out at 10, last bike out at 11. $10 for driver and $5 for rider.
This ride is approximately 100 miles round trip. There will be a
DJ & live music, food and drink (no alcohol), various vendors,
MOPAR car show, door prizes, raffle and 50/50. Again,
this will be held in Prince George, Va. to benefit St. Jude’s
Children’s Hospital. For additional information, please contact
smcgee1212@gmail.com, see http://capitalcityscrc.org or call
804-347-3345.
Oct 3rd
Fall Bash
Mineral, VA Wilson’s Custom Scooters Fall Bash, 11637
Jefferson Hwy, Mineral V.A. 23117. We will be having our Fall
Bash on October 3rd 2009 events include a bike rodeo, bike
show, live band, poker run food and refreshments fun for all.
Oct 3rd
Departure Bike Works Open House Party
Richmond, VA Come celebrate 37 years with us at Departure
Bike Works. See what is going on at the shop and look at our
latest builds. The event will be held rain or shine at our shop:
5216 Hull Street Rd, Richmond, VA 23224.You can call the
shop at 804-231-0244 or e-mail us at parts@departure.com
check us out at: http://www.departure.com.
Oct 4th
Tama Poker Run & Bike Show
Chesapeake, VA Tama Poker Run & Bike Show Sunday
October 4, 2009.Poker Run Registration 9:30-11:00 at Lazy
Horse, 565 Cedar Rd. Chesapeake, VA.23322 (757)549-0367
and First Flight Motorcycles 8291 Caratoke Hwy. Powell’s Point
N.C.(252)491-5080.$10 Per Bike, $5 Per Passenger. Bike
Show Registration 11:00-1:00 at Softtails Saloon 198 Shortcut
Rd. Barco, N.C.(252)453-8436. Bike Show Classes: Ladies,
HD Sportster, HD Rubbermount, HD Touring, HD Softail,
Foreign, Chopper, Antique, Factory Custom, and Special
Construction. Food & Entertainment. For info contact Holly
Hoffler at (757)538-3944 or http://tama.crusading.org
Oct 2nd – 4th
2nd Annual Outer Banks Bike Fest – Harbinger & Nags
Head, NC Bike Show, Poker Run, Guided Tours. Kitty Hawk
Harley-Davidson/Nags Head Harley-Davidson.
www.kittyhawkhd.com 252-491-2091
Oct 9 – 10
th th
Rumble Through The Tunnels-Fleet Ride Portsmouth, VA
Largest Motorcycle Event to Honor our Troops. Welcome Party,
Live Music, Vendors, Miss Fleet Ride Contest, Tattoo Contest.
Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Give-A-Way!! Bayside Harley-
Davidson. Portsmouth, VA/I-264/Exit 5. www.baysidehd.com
757 397-5550
Oct 10th
Southside H-D Open House
Virginia Beach, VA Info . 757-499-8964 www.hrhd.com
Oct 10th
Cycle Thunder Open House
Richmond, VA Cycle Thunder in Richmond VA will be having
it’s fall open house on October 10, 2009. Lots of food, great
prices on all the gear you need for fall riding, bike show with
prizes, other vendors, door prizes and more to come. Sign up
for our email updates at www.cyclethunder.com. See some
pictures of our spring openhouse on our facebook page or on
our website. www.cyclethunder. SEE YOU THERE!
Oct 11th
Fall Foliage Poker Run
Beautiful Poker Run thru the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia
with the Shenandoah Valley Harley Owners Group cost $10 all
riders welcome prizes awarded weather/h.o.g hotline
540-946-9992 or www.shenandoahhog.com
List your event free @ www.thunderroads-virginia.com
Oct 11th
8th Annual Suffolk Swamp Roar
Suffolk, VA A scenic 80-mile escorted ride around The Great
Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. $20 per person
includes event t-shirt, post-ride reception with food and
entertainment and free entry into Peanut Fest. Suffolk Visitor
Center at 757-514-4130 or http://www.Suffolk-Fun.com
Oct 15th – 18th
Biketoberfest
Daytona Beach, FL
Oct 17th
Arizona Joe’s & Graffitis Bike Show
Mechanicsville, VA Bike Show at Arizona Joes in beautiful
downtown Mechanicsville, Virginia, to benefit Breast Cancer
Awareness Month. All proceeds will be donated to help fight
breast cancer. Live bands, demonstrations, and trophies.
Sponsored by Arizona Joe’s Pub and Grille, Graffiti’s Ink
Gallery, and Richmond Harley Davidson. Please contact Rex
Wiltshire at (804) 240-2114 for more information
Oct 18th
Benefit for April Benner
Va Beach, VA We are in the process of organizing a
benefit for April Benner (hit and run victim) that will start
with a motorcycle run beginning at Chix Custom Cycles in
Va Beach, VA and will end at Knuckleheads Roadhouse, in
Va Beach, VA, to be held on Sun., Oct 18th. Registration
will be from 9:30 - 11:30 and the ride will begin at 11:45 to
conclude at Knuckleheads by Noon. The band Motorpsychic
(www.myspace.com/motorpsychicband) will play beginning
at 1:30 PM. Since this is a huge undertaking, we will need
ALL the help we can get to get this underway and make this
event a huge success for April. We need many new items to
be donated for AUCTION at this event!!! Any ITEM, or gift
certificate, donated with a value of $200.00 (or more) will
put YOUR business name, or logo, on the event flier which
should be ready for distribution by Sept 1st, providing we get
sufficient sponsorships by that time.Please message me, if
you can assist, and I will be glad to contact you at my earliest
convenience! Many thanks! Laurie Schober, freebird919@
juno.com. WE APPRECIATE YOUR SUPPORT! Event: 10/18
to be held at:Knuckleheads Roadhouse, 401 N. Witchduck Rd,
Va Beach, VA 23462, Contact @ Knuckleheads for this event:
J.R. 757.644.6200
Oct 18th
Dirt Drags @ Slade’s Park
Surry, VA Gates open 9 a.m. Admission $15, kids under 10
not racing are FREE. Free vendor setup - please call 1st.
Trophies & Cash-All Classes. Top Fuel at it’s Best-Pro Gas/
Dirt Bikes. No Colors - No Glass - No Dogs!!! For info call Joe
Brookman (804)221-3959. Rain date Oct. 25th.
Oct 24th
Hope for the Valley
Staunton, VA Staunton VA, Gypsy hill Park Bandstand-Music,
Food, Vendors and fun for the whole family. There will be a
motorcycle ride and bike show. All proceeds from this event
will go to local non profits. Starts at 9am goes till 10pm. For
more information or to be a vendor contact Chuck Hazy at
540-241-9852 or chuckhazy@yahoo.com
Oct 25th
Sherri Parker Memorial Poker Run & Bike Show - Driver/
Suffolk, VA. Sherri Parker Memorial Poker Run & Bike
Show Sunday Oct. 25th 2009. Run Registration 9:30- 11:00
at Knuckleheads Roadhouse, 401 North Witchduck Rd,
VA. Beach and Bayside Harley Davidson, 2211 Frederick
Boulevard, Portsmouth, VA 23704. Parade of Bikes entering
Driver, VA at 1:00pm. Bike Show Registration in Driver at
4237 Driver Lane from 12 - 2pm. Classes: Ladies, Antique,
HD Touring, HD Softail, HD Rubbermount, HD Sportster,
Foreign,Chopper, Special Construction & Factory Custom.
Proceeds benefiting the Sherri Parker Memorial Fund, Inc.,
Driver Volunteer Fire Dept. and the Humane Society. Rain
date November 1, 2009. For info contact Holly Hoffler @ 757-
538-3944.
Oct 31st
Halloween Open House & Fashion Show
Ft Washington, MD Great winter/fall fashions modeled by the HOG
Chapter, costume contest, candy for the kids, sales and more!
9407 Livingston Rd. Ft Washington, MD 20744, www.hdwash.com
301-248-1200, 10am to 4pm
Oct 31st
Southern Riders MC. NC. Halloween Party
Camden, NC The Southern Riders Motorcycle Club will sponsor
a Halloween Party 31 October 2009 at our Club House @ the
Intersection of 158 & 34 in Camden NC. Prizes for best costume
, 50/50 food music and a good time for all. For more info contact
Strings @ 252-216-7004 or Gman @252-722-2943
NOVEMBER
Nov 1st
Daylight Savings Time Ends
Fall back! Set your clocks back 1 hour
Nov 11th
Veterans Day
Nov 7th
Scorpions M/C 24th Annual Toy Run, Bike Show and Blood Drive
Gates open at 12noon, 6 bands will be playing through out the day
stating at 1pm. Bike show will be be public votes, 1st, 2nd, 3rd,
places. Bloodmobile will be on site for donations. Vendors, food,
door prizes, 50/50 drawings. Also raffling off a new 2009 Superglide,
tickets $25. Location: Fraternal Order of Eagles Lodge, Hwy 58E
Approx 7miles past Danville Va city limits. Contact: Stump 434-251-
6352 or scorpion_stump@yahoo.com
Nov 7th
Honor and Remember Veterans Ride
Chesapeake, V Motorcycle Ride beginning at Buskys Chill and
Grill, 237 Hanbury Rd., Chesapeake, VA. Registration is 9-10:30
and and costs $5.00 ea plus a donated toiletry item. There will be
door prizes, trophies, and food at the end, all this included with
your registration. Honor and Remember will be presenting flags to
Gold Star Families who have lost a loved one while in service to
our country. Contact Skip at 757-434-2154 or skip620@cox.net,
Chesapeake, Virginia
Nov 14th
Vets Helping Vets
Yorktown, VA U.S. Military Vets, Virginia State Chapter will be
holding a 2-Wheel/4-Wheel Dice Run, with proceeds going to
benefit Veterans in need through our support of multiple charities to
include: Hampton VA Hospital, Wounded Warrior Project, The Fisher
House, Operation Troop Aid, Homes For Troops, Sgt. Mac Memorial
Foundation, Vetshouse, Inc, etc. Our Run will Start and Finish at
Bayhaven Grill, 6500A George Washington Memorial Highway,
Yorktown ( Next to Hampton Roads Harley Davidson). First Vehicle
out 11 AM, last Vehicle in 3 PM. Entry fee $10 with prizes for best
and worst rolls, door prizes and 50/50 drawings. Also on hand will
be The Pin Up Angels (www.thepinupangels.com) Check us out at
www.usmvmcva1.org.
Nov 26th
Happy Thanksgiving!
Nov 27th
Southside H-D Beware of the Mall Sale
Virginia Beach, VA Info 757-499-8964 www.hrhd.com
DECEMBER
Dec 11th
Southside H-D 12 Days of Christmas Sale Begins Virginia
Beach, VA Info 757-499-8964 www.hrhd.com
Dec 12th
Southside H-D Santa and His Elves Open House Virginia Beach,
VA Info 757-499-8964 www.hrhd.com
Dec 12th
Christmas Open House & Pictures with Santa Hughesville,
MD Harley-Davidson of Washington, DC., 9407 Livingston Rd. Ft
Washington, MD 20744,
www.hdwash.com, 301-248-1200, 10am to 4pm
Dec 21st
1st Day of Winter
Dec 25th
Merry Christmas!
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 5
Bruce Rossmeyer Killed In Motorcycle Crash
Bruce Rossmeyer, Harley Davidson’s largest dealer, was killed
in Wyoming in a motorcycle crash on Thursday morning, July 30,
sources have confirmed. Rossmeyer had been traveling with a group
of friends en route to the Sturgis motorcycle rally being held in South
Dakota.
Wyoming Highway Patrol police officers confirmed there was a fatal
motorcycle crash involving a resident of the state of Florida High-
way 28, near Pinedale. Rossmeyer, a long-time resident of Daytona
Beach, was “retired” from the automobile business when he pur-
chased his first Harley-Davidson dealership in January, 1994 located
in Daytona Beach, Florida.
He had wanted to do something fun during his retirement years.
He then added New Smyrna Harley-Davidson in 1997, Grand Junc-
tion Harley-Davidson in 1997, Ft. Lauderdale Harley-Davidson in
1998, Harley-Davidson of Pompano in 2002, and Aspen Valley Harley
Davidson in 2002.
When the new Ft. Lauderdale dealership opened to the public in December 2001, the existing store turned into the po-
lice and fleet sales division. In October, 2005, he opened “Destination Daytona” in Ormond Beach, FL, the world’s largest
Harley-Davidson dealership. The total dealership utilizes more than 150 acres. Another South Florida dealership, Sunrise
Harley-Davidson was completed by the end of 2006 in Sunrise. In February 2006, Bruce Rossmeyer purchased Southern
Thunder Harley-Davidson located in Horn Lake, MS.

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 6

Come see
me at Bike
Night.

Bike Night at
Hooters at
these locations:
Chester
Mondays
Midlothian
Wednesdays
West Broad
Thursdays

Richmond - Chester
2401 West Hundred Road • 804-425-WING
Richmond - Midlothian
1211 Huguenot Road • 804-378-WING
Richmond - West Broad
7912 West Broad Street • 804-270-WING
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 7
Proud To Be An American
The Freedom Tower intended to absorb and deflect the blast from car or
truck bombs. The glass prisms will be coated with
One World Trade Center plastic like automobile safety glass to help absorb
(its legal name and street address) the impact. It is hoped that the prisms will refract
light into color and make the monolithic security
When completed, this will be one of the most important buildings measure an eye-pleasing curiosity. The Twin Tow-
of the early 21st century. It is significant in stature, in design, in its ers were targeted by Islamic terrorist truck bombs
politics, its symbolism, and for the reason it was built. twice, once successfully in 1993, before they were
The Freedom Tower is the replacement for what was once New destroyed by terrorists in jets in 2001. The corners
York’s World Trade Center. In September, 2001 terrorists destroyed of the base will taper inward, with small reflecting
several of the Center’s buildings, including the massive 110 -story pools at ground level.
twin towers. The stated reason for this action was to protest the The Freedom tower is just one of several build-
United States’ support of the nation of Israel and its people. The ings that will be erected to compose the new World
terrorist attack only served to solidify the bond between the U.S. Trade Center. The design is officially known as
and Israel, and caused wars in Afghanistan and elsewhere, and the “Memory Foundations” because it leaves room for
toppling of the Taliban government in Afghanistan. Thousands died several memorials in the 16-acre complex. One of
when the twin tower fell, and millions were emotionally and psycho- those memorials is the slurry wall, more commonly
logically scarred. known as “the bathtub.” This structure was the
The Freedom Tower is more than a real estate project. It is reha- basement of the World Trade Center and served to
bilitation for those hurt by the terrorists and a way to heal the scar hold back the Hudson River to keep it from flooding
on a nation. Part of the healing process is new growth, which this the complex. It was here that the remains of thou-
tower represents. But it has been a painful process. The early de- sands of dead were found, and hundreds more who
signs were ridiculed. When the first cohesive plan came out of the were never found. People will be able to walk down
pack it, too, found slews of detractors. New Yorkers are notoriously a ramp from ground level all the way down to bed-
cranky people and they took aim at the design. Most had forgotten, rock along the edge of this wall -- the last original
or were too young to remember, that the original twin towers were remaining piece of the twin towers.
also the subject of much vitriol for their design and expense. It was
only after those towers were taken away that the city realized it had
grown to love its pair of white albatrosses. But detractors stalled the
project for more than a year, adopted celebrity real estate mogul
Donald Trump as their mouthpiece, and embarrassed the city and
the nation by allowing the United Arab Emirates to begin work on
what would become the world’s tallest tower while New Yorkers
were busy sticking their thumbs in each other’s eyes.
The current design is much less flashy than the previous one. It
is something like a large sloping block with the corners carved off,
so it appears that the entire building twists as it gets higher. The
building’s faces will be huge triangles that taper toward the top and
the bottom. At the center of the building, they will form an octagon.
The skyscraper is symmetrical. Asymmetry was something in the
last design that set a lot of people off. Some people also don’t ap-
preciate the spire at the top. They forget that the Twin Towers had a
spire, too, and the mast is necessary for communications transmit-
ters.
The new Freedom Tower will pay homage to the twin towers in
several ways. The base of the Freedom Tower will be 200 feet
square -- the same dimensions as the original towers. The obser-
vation deck will be at 1,362 feet: the height of World Trade Center
Tower Two. The glass parapet will be at 1,368 feet: the height of
World Trade Center Tower One. That square base is a safety mea-
sure, not just an engineering method. Though it will be clad in glass
prisms, the 186-foot-tall base will be a windowless concrete wall,
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 8
Proud To Be An American

On Friday, September
11th, 2009, an American
flag should be displayed
outside every home,
apartment, office, and
store in the United
States . Every individual
should make it their duty
to display an Ameri-
can flag on this eighth
anniversary of one of
our country’s worst
tragedies. We do this to
honor those who lost
their lives on 9/11, their
families, friends and
loved ones who con-
tinue to endure the pain,
and those who today
are fighting at home and
abroad to preserve our
cherished freedoms.
In the days, weeks
and months following 9/11, our country was bathed in American flags as citizens mourned the incredible losses and stood
shoulder-to-shoulder against terrorism. Sadly, those flags have all but disappeared. Our patriotism pulled us through some
tough times and it shouldn’t take another attack to galvanize us in solidarity. Our American flag is the fabric of our country
and together we can prevail over terrorism of all kinds.

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 9

HURRICANE PREPAREDNESS
The Eight Steps of Hurricane / Major Storm Preparation equipment, etc., that should be brought inside before a storm. When picked
up by high winds, these items can become deadly missiles. Examine your
home to see if hurricane straps and connectors were installed to roof trusses,
Step 1: Respect Nature
rafters and framing members. Homes that do not have such protective
Weather events, such as hurricanes, are powerful and dangerous. In fact,
reinforcement are at risk of loosing roofs and walls to strong hurricane force
hurricanes and typhoons kill thousands of people worldwide every year
winds.
and cause billions of dollars in property damage. Don’t underestimate the
weather’s power. Having a healthy respect for hurricanes, tornados, winter
Step 5 : Store Up 14 Days of Supplies and Equipment
storms and severe weather in general is the first step to being prepared.
The experiences of Hurricanes Hugo, Bertha and Fran have taught us that
we need to be prepared to live without our utilities and basic services for up
Step 2: Decide Whether to Go or Stay
to two weeks or more. Most of us are ill-prepared to do so. It is not immedi-
You must first decide if you will evacuate your home or stay and ride out
ately obvious what we would need for such an adventure. A useful exercise
the storm. Such a decision should be a family decision and must include
may be to try to live for one day without your utilities and begin making a list
considering such factors as:
of essential items that become evident. Parents should try an occasional
Are you in a storm surge or flood zone?
“one-day camp in” with their children. This will make it less traumatic for
Is your home structurally capable of withstanding hurricane force winds?
children (and their parents) when they are forced to live without all the things
Do the openings in your home, such as the windows, sliding glass doors, and
we take for granted. The following list should provide a start on this Step:
jalousie doors, have shutters to keep the powerful winds and rain out?
Do any of your family members have special medical needs that will require
Food (canned, dry, non-perishable)
help you cannot provide?
Baby needs - formula, diapers
Is your home capable of providing a “livable” environment after the storm
Water (bottled or home-filled before the storm. One gallon/person/day
when all utilities are lost?
Canned sodas
Disposable plates, cups, utensils
Step 3: Make a Personal Plan
Plastic garbage bags
Whether you decide to evacuate or stay in your home to ride out a storm,
Medicines - RX as well as aspirin
you must get your family together to develop a family disaster plan. There
First Aid supplies
simply won’t be time to think of everything when a storm gets close. You will
Mosquito repellent
be surprised at the number of issues that need to be discussed once you sit
Bleach
down and start listing them.
Pet food
If you are going to evacuate:
Bedding (1 blanket or sleeping bag per person)
Where will you go?
Cooler
Will you be using a local shelter?
Non-electric can opener
Where is the shelter located?
Ice
What route will you drive to get there?
Dry goods (TP & paper towels)
How long will it take to pick up everyone?
Toiletries
What will you need to bring with you? (Think 3-day Survival Kit)
Flashlight w/ spare batteries
How will you care for your pets?
Portable Radio or TV w/ spare batteries
What property security needs to be done?
Clean clothes and sturdy shoes
Will you need to notify other family members where you will be?
Clothes & dish detergent
If you are going to stay:
Clothesline and pins
Do you have shutters for all windows and openings?
Games cards & quiet toys
How long will it take to put up shutters or boards?
Camp stove & fuel
Is rising water an issue in your home?
Lantern & fuel (not candles)
How will you cope with any family members with special medical needs?
Fire extinguisher - ABC type
What special supplies and food will you need to have on hand?
Gloves & goggles
Do you need to have any special equipment available for after the storm?
Small tools
Do you have a safe place for important documents?
Cleaning supplies
Should you notify any out-of-area relatives that you are staying?
Brooms & mops
Are you prepared to live without utilities and normal services for as long as
Pails and buckets
two weeks after the storm?
Ladders
Plywood & nails
Step 4: Prepare Your Property in Advance
Rakes & shovels
The time to begin acquiring shutters and protection for your home is now.
Chain saw, gas & oil
All openings of your home need to have protection to keep fierce winds and
Duct and masking tape
rain out of the building. Experience proves that a home that does not have
Rolls of plastic
protected openings is at grave risk for serious damage.
Wheelbarrow
Trees need to be trimmed to minimize the damage they may cause to your
Battery operated clock
home or someone else’s. Vehicles left out in the open are often overturned
Butane lighter or matches
by high winds. If you do not have a garage or carport, locate a protected spot
Axes, hatchets, pruners
to park your vehicles. A good location might be on the leeward side of the
Rope
house, away from the main force of the wind.
It is also important to fuel all vehicles before the storm hits. In addition,
Identify loose items located outside, such as lawn furniture, grills, toys, yard
remember to get to the ATM or bank and secure some cash since banks will
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 10
probably be closed for some time after a severe storm. Finally, keep a photo Step 8: Take Action
I.D. that also shows your home address. This may become important when A growing concern of hurricane forecasters and emergency management
asking a police officer or National Guardsman for permission to re-enter your officials is the problem of many people refusing to take action until a definite
neighborhood. hurricane or severe storm warning is issued. Don’t cut it too close. Numerous
hurricanes have brushed by our coast or hovered off-shore for days. Such
Step 6: Rehearse Your Plan storms have been within one day of landfall if their directions had changed.
The best plan in the word won’t do you or your family much good if no one This does not allow adequate time for preparation or evacuation. Good judg-
can remember it. When a major storm approaches, things need to happen ment and early action are everyone’s responsibilities!
fast. There are usually too many tasks to be done by one person. Many
people will be tied up at their workplace for some time prior to the storm’s ar- When the time comes for action, do so without hesitation. There is never
rival. {Emergency Management personnel and emergency responders will be enough time to get ready for nature’s fiercest weather. Give yourself and your
tied up during and for several days following any major weather event.} The family a head start. It’s worth it!
only real way to ensure that everything gets done is to assign everyone in
your family a list of preparation activities, or allot a substantial amount of lead Source: http://www.dem.dcc.state.nc.us/PIO/8steps.htm
time if you don’t have anyone to help you. Try actually putting up shutters
one weekend to determine how long the process really takes. For those who
will be evacuating, actually practice the drive to the shelter, including stops
along the way to pick up other family members and friends. Driving time may
be extended by hours when the real thing comes along, so be sure to plan
accordingly. During Hurricane Andrew, many people discovered that what
had been a 15-minute drive to the shelter actually took four hours because of
the massive traffic jams.

Step 7: Watch Weather Reports Closely

Storms and weather fronts, especially tornados and hurricanes, can move
very quickly. Hurricanes typically move at a forward speed of 8 to 25 miles
per hour. While this may seem quite slow, such movement can advance an
approaching storm up to 200 miles during the course of a normal work day.
As a hurricane or other storm moves closer to you area, begin monitoring
the weather reports every hour. Don’t get caught by surprise by not taking
advantage of the excellent media coverage of weather related events.

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 11

 If you’ve got some “Hot Shot” pictures you’d like to share with us, please send
them to kelly@thunderroads-virginia.com Pictures must be high resolution (300
dpi) in order to print clearly. All are welcome but please keep ‘em somewhat
clean so everyone can enjoy!

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 12

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 13
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 14
BACK
In The Day

Tattoo of the Month

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 15

2 Hot Competitions - One Great Day
Article by Letterfly, Dave Knoderer
& Marlene Steele, Marketing, Advertising & Promotions Coordinator at combined his favorite subject to paint (being horses) and his background in
Shenandoah Harley-Davidson/Buell entertainment to get the direction of the theme. The six up team pulling the
stagecoach is proof enough of his prowess with paint. Deft pinline designs
The party really starts the Friday night before as the willing participants ar- and hand painted images were painted on several bikes in attendance that
rive and set up begins. The family feel of this dealership permeates throughout fascinated many an onlooker. An especially spectacular task to watch was
the vendor community as well. Camaraderie that had reached a friendly a stripe flame job all over a brand new white trike. The artist is on the road
pitch during the last event can resume between coordinators and merchants, attending bike parties, such as this one, half the year spending the winter at
suppliers and artisans as they compare notes on where they’ve been in the his home in Florida.
months that passed and get caught up on the news from afar in this unique By far the favorite competition of everyone in attendance was the Ms.
genre. Shenandoah Harley-Davidson swim wear division. Once again introductions
Early Saturday morning preparations for the crew at Shenandoah Harley- and patter accompanied their strut around the stage. The ladies were re-
Davidson are especially turbulent with the coordination and logistics of six viewed in several processions as the judges conferred for their final decision.
bands performing, a beauty contest and the regular activities that occur as yet The announcement of the runners up brought the level of excitement to a
another hot, Harley event in the parking lot comes together. The crowd, eager fevered frenzy. Everyone was at the edge of their seats. The crowning mo-
for the festivities, began to arrive mid morning and had reached maximum ment finally arrived. Ms. Shenandoah Harley-Davidson 2009 was announced
capacity by the time the Last Band Standing Competition began. amidst thunderous approval by the audience.
Bob Ladd, who reports the recent success of his 2100 mile, eleven state The judges for the band competition were the people in attendance and
bike tour to coincide with the annual Harley-Davidson Dealers convention, this voting took place inside the store and through a local radio station. Ballots
year in Denver, was especially pleased for the week long respite from emails went into color coordinated ballot boxes. During a special performance by
and that his crew back home handled everything, not interrupting his glorious guest band SwampdaWamp, a hot, southern rock band from North Carolina,
ride once with a phone call. This energetic dynamo obviously loves people, the votes were tallied. At the end of the day and after much deliberation, an
was all over the place, providing encouragement and making introductions announcement was made. Willing MS SHD contestants kept the crowd in
and at one point deciding and announcing over the loudspeaker since there anticipation as the girls slowly discarded a staff button down shirt to reveal the
was so much good ink in attendance he was going to add a Tattoo Contest. 3 band finalists painted on their mid-sections. First place going to an all around
A total of six bands performed all day with a minimum of delay between sets favorite SP511. After congratulations were made and pictures were taken,
due to the two stage areas to facilitate movement of equipment. Area groups SP511 returned to the stage for the delight of the roaring crowds and played
The Ruckus, VTX, SP511, Occum’s Razor, Property and Manic took the several AC/DC classics.
stages by storm. The range of musical style was vast among the participants; As the final set of music met the dusk of the day, the dismantling process
from the vocal calisthenics of classic rock tunes to the throbbing monotony of began. At the heels of the receding public, food service vendors, local ser-
pure grunge, the happy up-beat pop tunes and even a few toe tapping original vants, merchandisers and the capable volunteers all tidied up and loaded out.
songs added to the variety that kept the enthusiastic crowd entertained. All 6 The crowd dwindled down to just a few groupies following the victorious
bands kept the crowd amused and moving as they all performed a required band and the clean up crew. One by one, trucks and vans with their unique
Michael Jackson cover tune. cargo filed off the parking lot and launched themselves into the growing dark-
The Ms. Shenandoah Harley-Davidson competition added much to the ness.
venue as several wardrobe classifications were reviewed for the pleasures Shenandoah Harley-Davidson has the formula for a party that includes
of everyone in attendance, wetting their appetites for the swim wear division, encouragement for local talent, a feast of beauty for eager eyes, and variety
slated for later in the day. Many Kodak moments occurred as these willing and with food, special merchandise, shiny chrome and good times for everyone.
wonderful women posed for the cameras inside and outside of the dealership. Don’t miss the next one.
The weather cooperated perfectly. The hot, sunny and clear day made Special thanks to Letterfly for the article. None of this is possible without
sales of ice cream and cold beverages brisk along with the variety of food- every single employee at Shenandoah Harley-Davidson, all the competition
stuffs that add so much to the festivities. Vintage knives, jewelry, motor clothes participants and musicians that have performed, Clear Channel Radio with
and an embroidered patch sewing service also enjoyed the perusal of the their awesome D.J.’s, and Biker Bob, who challenged me by tossing me into
bustling crowd. this crazy event season head first,
Letterfly, the pinstriping guy, had his Wild West theme bike on display. The Thanks.
artwork and gilded stripe designs is straight out of the forties with portraits of Marlene
Buffalo Bill and Annie Oakley along with a plethora of Indians and wild west
motifs. When the artist was coming up with the idea for this paint job, he

A “maximum capacity” crowd, is warmed up and 1st band leading off the Last Band Standing The Ruckus! Warming up before their time slot
ready to party. Competition – MANIC begins
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 16
Our lovely Ms. SHD competitors line up on SP511 makes the hot day even hotter Flames fell from the finger tips of guitarist in
stage PROPERTY, 4th in the line of competitors

Ms SHD competitors prepare and encourage the View from the “back row” during VTX’s perfor- Local favorite “OCCUM’S RAZOR” amazed the
crowd for the swim wear division. mance crowd and kept them rockin’ as the final com-
petitors in the Last Band Standing Competition

Biker Bob having fun with the top 5 finalists in Special Guests SWAMP DAWAMP, kept the crowd 2009 Last Band Standing is SP511. SHD is
the Ms SHD competition partying as deliberations were going on and the looking forward to having them perform during
judges were deciding, before heading out to an- Valley Thunder, September 12.
other gig that night.

2009 Last Band Standing is SP511. SHD is look-

ing forward to having them perform during Valley
Thunder, September 12.

2009 Ms Shenandoah Harley-Davidson, Heather Holden, along with Biker Bob

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 17
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 18
FIVE KEYS TO AVOIDING AN ACCIDENT
The Unknown Rider
Motorcyclists lose in accidents. The only question is, what
will be lost? Sometimes, not very often, it’s only motorcycle
damage. More often, it’s skin & blood, or worse yet, an arm Around 8:47 on 9/11
or maybe a leg. Sometimes, it’s their life. These Keys to Our world came crashing down
Safety may help you avoid being in an accident. Never imagined
Never thought it could happen
#1 RIDE AHEAD OF YOUR BIKE!
Devastation all around.
All motorcyclists know to allow 2 or more seconds of safety
margin between themselves and the vehicle in front of I watched as lives were changed in an instant
them. However, riders should develop the additional prac- How little did I know
tice of looking ahead 15 seconds (visibility permitting) and To my surprise another plane
anticipating what might affect them, thus increasing time to Collides that morning at Ground Zero
safely react. At highway speed, 15 seconds is a quarter of There’s smoke everywhere
a mile!
And fire in the air
#2 BE AWARE OF EVERYTHING AROUND YOU No time to ask why
Sometimes this is called situational awareness. In addition The towers came down
to watching traffic all around you, pay attention to intersec- As they fell to the ground
tions ahead with possible cross traffic, or driveways when a We watched our neighbors die
motorist backing out, or vehicles on the side of road which And I still cant believe
might pull out in front of you, bicyclists ahead, water puddle
This must be a dream
on the road which could cause hydroplaning, to name a few
things which could become hazards. Increased awareness
can provide you with increased reaction time to avoid a Unknown Rider Submissions to:
hazard. UR, 205 E Thorncliff Rd, Florence, SC 29505

#3 KEEP UP YOUR SCAN

Develop and practice your eye scan. Check your mirrors
every few seconds. Scan your instruments (battery charge,
oil pressure, oil temperature) every 10 seconds. Check the
sides of the road where trees and underbrush may hide 4
legged critters. Watch for motorists who may be “lost” or
may not be sure whether to turn or not.

#4 LEAVE YOURSELF AN ESCAPE

Always give yourself a way to escape a potential threat.
Example - riding in heavy traffic with vehicles ahead of you,
and alongside another vehicle (..especially a big truck!) with
another vehicle close behind you on a two lane highway
is like riding in a moving box. There’s no way to escape a
sudden threat such as a vehicle suddenly cutting in front of
you, or an accident in front of you, or a critter jumping into
the roadway. Keep a way out at all times. Slow down to
create space in front, move on around the vehicle to your
side, whatever you can safely do to avoid being trapped
with nowhere to go if there is a sudden threat.

#5 ENHANCE YOUR VISIBILITY

Unfortunately, motorcycles sometimes simply do not regis-
ter in the vision/mind of many motorists. The motorcycle is
plainly visible but often the driver of the automobile may not
really “see it”. Riders need to take proactive steps to be
seen. Make eye contact with motorists. Flash high beam
lights if the situation requires. Move left or right in your
lane, safety margin permitting, to create motion which may
be more noticeable to motorists.
 Columbus Day

www.thunderroads-virginia.com
 DEADLINE! Hot Plate

Placing an ad with us?

Listing your event in our calendar?
Don’t forget that our deadline is the
15th of every month for the following
month’s issue-don’t be left behind!

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 22

 kelly@thunderroads-virginia.com

ABATE of Virginia Bikers with Heart Foundation, Inc.

welcomes all riders to join in the fight to protect your rights. No matter what you 501 ©3 Non-Profit Organization, National Fallen Biker Memorial Weekend, P.O.
ride, we want YOU! For more information contact Sharon Keaton at 540-937-3924 Box 291 Bryantown, MD 20617, Office: (301) 893-2900 Email: founder@
or CulpeperSharon@Gmail.com. Stay on top of the latest ABATE news and events mlkm5project.com. Website: www.mlkm5project.com. Motto: We Ride Because
by visiting www.ABATEofVA.com. We Care

ABATE Coalfield Riders Chapter ( Grundy , VA ) meets 7PM every 2nd
Saturday at Caleb & Melissa's garage, Deel Fork, Grundy , VA 24614-9600 .
Everyone Welcome. For more information contact Steve Stacy at 276-935-2484 or
SStacy@eqt.com
ABATE Culpeper Chapter ( Culpeper , VA )
meets 7PM every 2nd Thursday at Hazel River Pub, 105 E Davis St, Culpeper , VA
22701. Everyone Welcome. For more information contact Tim Dalman at 540-219-
6366 or TimDalman@comcast.net
ABATE 1st Capitol Chapter ( Williamsburg , VA ) meets 9AM every 1st Sunday at
Beachcomber's Restaurant, 8811 George Washington Memorial Hwy, Yorktown ,
VA 23692. Everyone Welcome. For more information contact Gene Spare at 757-
903-6541 or JESpare@verizon.net
ABATE Iron Horse Calvary Chapter ( Lynchburg , VA) meets 7PM every 1st
Tuesday at Mary Jane's Café, 826 Kemper St, Lynchburg , VA 24502-3250.
Everyone Welcome. For more information contact Tronco at 434-993-3197 or
EvoTronco1@wmconnect.com
ABATE Lonesome Pine Chapter (Wise, VA)
meets 6:30PM every 1st Tuesday at Mosby's Restaurant, 205 Ridgeview Rd, Wise
, VA 24293. Everyone Welcome. For more information contact Shag Mead at 276-
565-4541 or ShageDawg@hotmail.com
ABATE Mason-Dixon Chapter ( Fairfax , VA )
meets 8PM every 2nd and 4th Tuesday at John's Place, 11104 Lee Hwy, Fairfax ,
VA 22030-5005. Everyone Welcome. For more information contact Bob Seoane at
703-206-0571or NightTommy2@yahoo.com
Christian Motorcyclist Association Northern Virginia Chapter 348 www.
nvcrcma.com NVCR meets 3rd Sat each month @ Old Country Buffet in Manassas
@ 9:00 am, President – Rick Saunders, nvcrmail@msn.com Richmond, Va.
23230. Mike Walton, President (804) 514-9123 meetings come out and ride with
us anyway. It’s not about the meetings. For more information on meetings or rides
please contact our chapter president, Mark Johnson, at president@star440.org or
go the www.star440.org
Moose Riders District 8
Meetings 1st Monday of Month. Contact Bubba @ 804-691-7671. Email:
kimandbubba1@verizon.net or Jeff @ 804-892-3346 Email: hawgdawgrose@
wmconnect.com
TAMA – Tidewater Albemarle Motorcycle Association. ALL clubs or any
organization that hosts rides/events are welcome to attend. Come out & meet
some good people from all around the area. We’re all working together so that
each one our rides/events can be scheduled not to conflict with others & then
we can all have a successful turnout. Our meetings are held @ 7PM on the 3rd
Thursday of every month (except December) at the Golden Corral, on the corner of
Volvo Pkwy & Battlefield Blvd in Chesapeake, VA. www.tamaevents.com
Virginia Freedom Riders - Riders Against Constitutional Erosion (VFR-
R.A.C.E.) exists as a grassroots State Motorcycle Rights Organization (SMRO)
dedicated to protecting and restoring motorcyclists personal freedoms, liberties and
individual rights. email: membership@vfr-race.com. Website:vfr-race.com

ABATE Olde Dominion Chapter ( Falls Church , VA )

meets 8PM every 1st Monday at JVs Restaurant, 6666 Arlington Blvd, Falls Church
, VA 22042-2145. Everyone Welcome. For more information contact Tank Fortner at
703-309-7197 or KeviRF80@aol.com

ABATE River City Chapter ( Richmond , VA )

'No meetings, just action!' For more information contact Steve Skeens at 804-389-
8293 or HawgSke@msn.com

ABATE Virginia Cruisers Chapter ( Hampton , VA )

meets 1PM every 1st Sunday at Mugzy's Grill, 1312 E. Pembroke Ave, Hampton,
VA. Everyone welcome. For more information contact Pete Bulgart at 757-870-
1517 or John at abateregion3@yahoo.com.

Beacons/Christian Motorcycle Association - Meetings: 2nd Monday of each

Biker Pals
month, Piccadilly Cafeteria, Military Hwy, 6-8 PM. Monthly ride: 4th Saturday of
each month, depart from Shoney’s on Indian River Rd. Check our website for ride
times and more information: http://cmaner5.org/VA/BEACONSOFTIDEWATER or
contact President Lenny Stowell at (757) 420-4411 or lenandtwogirls@yahoo.com

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 23

 A jumbo jet is making its final approach to Coolangatta Airport .
The pilot comes on the intercom, ‘This is your Captain. We’re on
our final descent into Coolangatta. I want to thank you for flying
with us today and hope you enjoy your stay on the Gold Coast.
He forgets to switch off the intercom. Now the whole plane can
hear his conversation from the cockpit.
The co-pilot can be heard saying to the pilot, ‘So, Skip, whatcha’
got planned while we’re on the Gold Coast?’ ‘Well,’ says the skip-
per, ‘first, I’m going to check into the hotel, take a big crap....then
I’m going take that new stewardess with the huge hooters
out for dinner.... I’m going to wine and dine her, take her back to my
room and give her a ride on the baloney pony all night long..’
Aghast and amused, everyone on the plane hears this and immedi-
ately begins looking up and down the aisle, trying to figure out who
this new stewardess is that the pilot’s talking about.
Meanwhile, the new stewardess is seated at the very back of the
plane. She is so embarrassed that she starts running toward the
cockpit to turn the intercom off. Halfway down the aisle, she trips
over an old lady’s bag and down she goes.
The old lady leans over and says: ‘No need to hurry, dear......He’s
gotta’ land the plane and take a big crap first.’
This is a medical distinction. We’ve all heard about people having
guts or balls, but do you really know the difference between them?
In an effort to keep you informed, the definitions are listed below:
GUTS
Is arriving home late after a night out with the guys, being met at
the door by your wife holding a broom, and having the guts to ask:
‘Are you still cleaning, or are you flying somewhere?’
BALLS
Is coming home late after a night out with the
guys, smelling of perfume and beer, lipstick on your collar, slap-
ping your wife on the ass and having the balls to say: You’re next,
Chubby.’
I hope this clears up any confusion on the definitions.
Medically speaking there is no difference in the
outcome. Both result in death.
A couple drove down a country road for several miles, not saying
a word.
An earlier discussion had led to an argument and neither of them
wanted to be the first to give in.
As they passed a barnyard of mules, goats, and
pigs, the husband asked sarcastically, ‘Relatives of yours?’ The
wife calmly replied, “actually yes, my in-laws.”
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 26
Last Sunday, the pastor asked if anyone in the congregation
would like to express praise for answered prayers.
A lady stood and walked to the podium. She said, “I have a
Praise. Two months ago, my husband, David, had a terrible
motorcycle wreck and his scrotum was completely crushed. The
pain was excruciating and the doctors didn’t know if they could
help him.”
You could hear a muffled gasp from the men in the congregation
as they imagined the pain that poor David must have experi-
enced.
“David was unable to hold me or the children,” she went on, “and
every move caused him terrible pain. We prayed as the doctors
performed a delicate operation, and it turned out they were able
to piece together the crushed remnants of David’s scrotum, and
wrap wire around it to hold it in place.”
Again, the men in the congregation were unnerved and squirmed
uncomfortably as they imagined the horrible surgery performed
on David.
“Now,” she announced in a quavering voice, “thank the Lord,
David is out of the hospital and the doctors say that with time, his
scrotum should recover completely.”
All the men sighed with relief. The pastor rose and tentatively
asked if anyone else had something to say. A man stood up and
walked slowly to the podium. He said, “I’m David.” The entire
congregation held its breath. “I just want to tell my wife that the
word is STERNUM.
Mike was attending his “H.O.G.” Chapter’s monthly meeting and
had just told them he couldn’t make the State Rally scheduled to
start the next day because his wife wouldn’t let him go.
After listening to the jeers and other derisive remarks from his
fellow Harley riding friends, Mike left to go back home to his wife.
When Mike’s friends started arriving to set up Chapter’s Hospital-
ity Room the next day, who should be there but Mike sitting on
his Ultra Classic with a cold beer in his hand.
“How on earth did ya talk your wife into letting you go Mike?”
“I didn’t have to” was Mike’s reply.
“When I left the meeting I went home and slumped down in my
chair with a beer to drown my sorrows. Then my wife snuck up
behind me and covered my eyes and said, ‘Surprise’!”
When I peeled her hands back she was standing there in a
beautiful see - through negligee and she said, “ Carry me to the
bedroom, tie me to the bed, and you can do whatever you want.”
So.......... here I am!
What do you get when you mix PMS with GPS?
A crazy bitch who WILL find your ass.
EAST COAST STURGIS MOTORCYCLE RALLY
Little Orleans, Western Maryland Aug. 5th – 9th, 2009
By Wild Bill Day
This event is pure sizzling hot old school fun. Over 5000
people attended the Sixth Annual East Coast Motorcycle
Rally this year. Situated on Apple Mountain, the rally provid-
ed great vendors, excellent food and service along with all
the good ole biker fun you could handle. The entertainment
and bike show was great. This is the 1st time that I’ve ever
seen a motorcycle demolition derby that you could enter in,
and the event even furnished a small bike to ride.
Now let’s talk about the camping. You could camp just
about any where you wanted to - near the main stage, or
with less noise, down in the shady hollow. Or you could go
up high on the hill side away from it all. I can say, from first
hand experience that this kind of camping will make you-
have many new friends for life.
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 28
It’s been along time since I have met so many friendly
people all in one place at the same time. I think it’s partly
due to this whole event not being commercialized yet. If
you want commercialized camping, it’s only a quarter a mile
away with cabins to rent. You can stay east in the town of
Hancock or west in the town of Cumberland.
Places to ride - Yes, there are lots of good back roads to
ride on. There is a favorite hangout called Bill’s bar outside
a porch up high over looking the street with bike parking
only on both sides. Across the street where the old wooden
Post Office used to be there is pit cooked barbeque going
on all day. Just down from this and through the tunnel is a
small Federal park on the upper Potomac River with $10.00
a night camping and swimming.
If you want to really experience a breath of fresh air with
old school biking with no problems, that I could see, come
to this event next year. It’s only about 4 to 5 hours from
Richmond, Virginia. See you there!
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 29
The 69th Annual
Sturgis Rally 2009
There was much anticipation leading up to 2009 Sturgis Bike Week – the 69th annual. After
experiencing lower attendance numbers after the 65th and downturns at some of the major
rally’s earlier this year, we wondered what this year would hold. Would this be the big year or
would riders hold out for next year’s 70th?
The ride up was perfect and after getting into Rapid City early in the afternoon, a shopping
trip for a few groceries was the first order of business before relaxing for the evening. The next
morning, Russ discovered issues with his front tire, so we rode to Rapid City Harley-Davidson
for a replacement. We pulled into a service center that was set up for minor repairs and took a
free shuttle up the hill to the dealer. That turned out to be a good call. Rapid City Harley-David-
son was packed, the parking lot overflowing with bikes and our 2-hour wait for the repair gave
us an opportunity to take a look around at all the vendors and wares located on site.

What Went On
There is no way to see and do most of what goes on during Sturgis Rally Week. Here are
some highlights:
2009 Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of Fame Induction
Jackpine Gypsies Short Track Racing and Hill Climbs

Million-Mile Motorcycle Man

Famed motorcycle photographer, Michael Lichter’s Motorcycle as Art exhibit was housed at
the new Lichter Exhibition Hall on the grounds of The Buffalo Chip. The 2009 theme, “Rebel
Rousers”, featured motorcycle icons that inspired the culture and the history of the attitude and
camaraderie of motorcyclists.
Legends Ride raised $61,000. For $150, participants rode with celebrities (Aerosmith’s lead
singer Steven Tyler, Toby Keith, Lorenzo Lamas and the cast of Easy Riders II), world-class
builders and other special guests. The $150 donation included a ticket to the Toby Keith con-
cert, special parking, VIP souvenir gift pack and more. This year’s Legends Ride benefits The
Black Hills Children’s Home and the Sturgis Motorcycle Hall of Fame and Museum.
About halfway through the Aerosmith concert at Buffalo Chip Campground on Wednesday
night, Steven Tyler fell backward onto a couple of fans in the middle of what was reported to
be a record crowd with over 100,000 in attendance. Tyler was dancing around to entertain the
crowd while the sound crew replaced a fuse that blew during the song “Love in an Elevator.”
He was rushed to a hospital in Rapid City. Tyler suffered a broken shoulder, minor neck injuries
and received stitches in his head as a result of the accident.
There was a lot of “Monkey Business” scheduled at Monkey Rock, former Thunder Road
venue. Their schedule included entertainment such as Spank Your Monkey Dance, Country
Monkey Line Dance Lessons, Stripper pole gymnastics competition and more.

What We Did
Ride the hills, Biker Breakfasts,
Ride the hills, Mount Rushmore National Monument tour and night lighting ceremony
Rushmore Civic Center – Took a look at the 2010 H-D model line-up
Sturgis – Shirts, pins, people watching. StarBoyz Stunt Riders offered some exciting entertain-
ment downtown
Sturgis Drag Races, Hang out downtown Custer..and again this year attended the AMD World
Championship
2009 AMD World Championship
For the first time since its inception in 2004, an American custom motorcycle engineer won the
Official World Championship of Custom Bike Building. Dave Cook of Cook Custom Choppers,
Milwaukee, Wisconsin, was voted World Champion by his fellow competitors. 51 year old Cook
is an internationally recognized engineer and creative genius whose passion for design and
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 30
engineering excellence earned him fourth in the freestyle competition last year. He is the highest
placed American competitor behind an international top-three in both 2007 and 2008.

AHDRA Drags
After a 2-year hiatus, Loveland, CO racer Dan Brummett made the decision to race “one more
time” at the Sturgis Drag Strip. There’s no way to “do it all” at the rally, but spending a day at
the drag strip proved to be a great choice! Brummett registered for 2 classes and won both!
Mike Friberg, master mechanic from Rampage Performance Cycles in Longmont took first
place in his class for the 3rd consecutive year. Prior to the races, we witnessed history as the
Time Machine fired and roared down the track. This Motorcycle features a progression of seven
different Harley-Davidson engines from 1909 to present. The engines chronicle the history of the
Harley-Davidson Motor Company by including a 1909 JD motor, a 1944 Flathead motor, a 1946
Knucklehead motor, a 1948 Panhead motor, a 1981 Shovelhead motor, a 1993 Evolution motor
and a 2005 Twin-Cam. Hand-built over the last several months by Doc (Steve Hopkins, owner of
Docs HD, Wisconsin, this massive motorcycle seats 10 people & stretches over 24 1/2 feet long!

What Else?
We noticed lots of motorcycle traffic heading south as we were heading north at the front end
of the rally. Each year we are noticing an increase in “pre-rally attendees”
We don’t know if numbers were up or down this year. It was crowded in Sturgis, but it always
is. My estimate is that numbers were close to last year’s or even a bit down.
There were vacancies in every area as has been the case for the last 3 years and there were
deals to be had. $99 at The Broken Spoke County Line got you a camp spot for the week and
some top-notch entertainment like Foghat and 38 Special. We decided to stay an extra night in
the hills after finding a cabin in Custer for the normal tourist rate of $80.
Cooler temperatures throughout the week were a welcome relief from the rally week scorch-
ers in years past. As is typical, thunderstorm warnings were a normal part of almost every day,
but this year’s storms more severe. A hailstorm coupled with fierce winds hit Sturgis on Friday,
Aug 7th. With some hailstones the size of baseballs, the storm ripped holes in canvas tents,
beat up motorcycles, broke windows in vehicles and buildings and sent some to the hospital.
There was one reported fatality. A crash on Saturday in Rapid City took an Oklahoma man’s
life.
Highway Patrol: Sturgis Rally Daily Report. Accident and crime statistics this year were down
in almost all categories

lm
Steven Tyler photos credit: Wendy Pitlick

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 31

BIKER FRIENDLY DIRECTORY
Thunder Roads Is Brought To You Each Month By The Following Biker Friendly Businesses
It’s important for you to know who your friends are
out there when you hit the road! Welcome to our Early’s Cycle Center, Inc. * BIKER ACCESSORIES,
Biker Friendly Directory. The following is a list of Virginia’s Leading Yamaha Dealer APPAREL, LEATHERS & GIFTS
establishments throughout the Mid-Atlantic that want 1921 South High Street
you to know that they’re here for YOU. Whether it’s Harrisonburg, VA 22801
a bike dealer, service shop, restaurant, bar or any www.earlyscycle.com Virginia
other type of business that welcomes our biking
community through their doors, you can count on Foley Motorsports Cycle Thunder *
our family of friends to always welcome you in. ALL 8151 Mechanicsville, Turnpike Apparel, Accessories & Installation
of our regular advertisers can be found, in bold, Mechanicsville, VA 23111 3110 W. Leigh Street
throughout this listing. All of our friends listed are (804) 559-4282 Richmond, VA 23230
“Biker Friendly” & most of them ride too, so they www.sportvehicles.com www.cyclethunder.com
know exactly what you want & need. The staff here (804) 276-4982
at Thunder Roads greatly appreciates of all of our Gary’s Automotive Again *
advertiser’s continuous support each month - they 23220 Airport Street Diva Customs
are the sole financial supporters of this magazine. Petersburg, VA 23803 501 17th St.
WE WOULD NOT EXIST WITHOUT THEM! So please (804) 733-8644 Virginia Beach, VA 23451
give them the support that they truly deserve for (757) 428-DIVA
being with us & drop by to see them for a visit. Hampton Roads Harley-Davidson/Buell * www.divacustoms.com
Let them know that you saw them here in Thunder 6450 George Washington Memorial Hwy
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to join our Thunder Roads family of Biker Friendly (757) 872-7223 166 S. Rosemont Rd. Ste. G
Places, please give us a call (757) 831-2264 or email www.hrhd.com Virginia Beach, VA 23452
kelly@thunderroads-virginia.com (757) 340-4446
“Where There’s Bikes….There’s Going To Be Outlanders *
Thunder - THUNDER ROADS” 4768 US Highway 211 West Harley-Haven
* Pick up your FREE copy of Luray, VA 22835 1920 Atlantic Ave
Thunder Roads at these locations (540) 743-2040 Virginia Beach, VA
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email: outlnd@shentel.net www.hrhd.com
DEALERS & SERVICES
Patriot Harley-Davidson * WTF Leather Crafter *
9739 Lee Highway Seats, Sewing, Patches, Leather work
Maryland Fairfax, VA 1561 Bradford Rd. Suite 102
(703) 352-5400 Virginia Beach, Va. 23455
All American Harley-Davidson * www.patriothd.com (757) 439-2813 or (757) 582-4656
8126 Leonardtown Rd.
Hughesville, MD 20637 Revolutionary Harley-Davidson *
(888) 833-2REV 1915 Pocahontas Trail Unit F-5 INSURANCE
www.allamericanh-d.com
Williamsburg, VA 23185
(757) 565-5122
Harley-Davidson of Washington, DC *
www.hrhd.com Clark Insurance Agency *
9407 Livingston Rd.
Ft. Washington, MD 4709 Mason Rest Ct.
(888) HDFEVER Richmond Harley-Davidson * Richmond, VA
www.hdwash.com 10441 Washington Highway (804) 271-1961
Glen Allen, VA
Harley-Davidson/Buell of Ocean City * (804) 550-9280
10716 Ocean Gateway www.richmondharley.com BARS & RESTAURANTS
Berlin, MD
(410) 629-1599 Shenandoah Harley-Davidson/Buell *
www.hdoceancity.com 213 Rolling Thunder Lane North Carolina
Staunton, VA
Virginia (540) 213-7433 Barry’s Walnut Island Restaurant, Lodge,*
www.shenhd.com Sports Center & Marina
Bad Mo’s Custom Cycles 169 Walnut Island Blvd
Custom Building/Rebuilding Southside Harley-Davidson/Buell, Inc. * Grandy, NC 27939
Fabricating & Painting 385 North Witchduck Rd (252) 453-4153
Virginia Beach, VA Virginia Beach, VA www.walnutisland.com
(757) 237-2340 or (757) 685-9697 (757) 499-8964 www.outerbanksbikeshow.com
www.hrhd.com
Big Daddy'z Cycles * Virginia
2810 Geo. Wash. Mem. Hwy. Thunder Road Harley-Davidson *
Hayes, VA 23072 (In Gloucester County) 4960 Riverside Drive 330 Valley Street
(4 miles over the Coleman) Danville, VA 24541-5630 330 Valley Street
804-642-3436 fax# 804-642-1461 (434) 822-BIKE (2453) Scottsville, VA 24590
bigdaddyzcycles@verizon.net
www.thunderroadhd.com (434) 286-7117
www.bigdaddyzcycles.com
www.myspace.com/330valleystreet
Chix Custom Cycles*
3745 Shore Drive LEGAL SERVICES Alley Cafe and Sports Lounge*
Virginia Beach, VA 23455 608 N. Main St.
(757) 363-2453 Epstein, Sandler & Flora P.C. Kilmarnock, Va. 22482
www.chixcustomcycles.com 413 W. York Street (804) 824-4353
Norfolk, VA 23610 Baker Street *
Coleman Power Sports * 1-800-9-THE-LAW 1920 Centerville Turnpike #101
14105 Telegraph Rd. Virginia Beach, VA 23464
Woodbridge, VA Tom McGrath’s Motorcycle Law Group* (757) 479-4480
(703) 497-1500 The Firm That Rides
www.wherethepoweris.com Dedicated to protecting the rights of injured Boneshakers Saloon *
motorcyclists 1297 General Booth Blvd
Departure Bike Works * 1-800-321-8968 Virginia Beach, VA 23451
5216 Hull St www.motorcyclelawgroup.com (757) 961-8382
Richmond, VA 23224 www.boneshakerssaloon.com
(804) 231-0244
www.departure.com
* Pick up your FREE copy of Thunder Roads at these locations
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 32
BIKER FRIENDLY DIRECTORY
Clutch Bar & Grill*
1485 General Booth Blvd (Behind Hooters)
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
(757) 491-2229
www.clutchbarandgrill.com
email: info@clutchbarandgrill.com
myspace.com/clutchvenue
Damon & Company Sports Bar & Grill *
7104 George Washington Mem. Hwy, Rt 17 North
Gloucester, VA (804) 693-7218
www.damonsbar.com
HOOTERS – 3 locations
Richmond – Chester *
2401 West Hundred Road
(804) 425-WING
Richmond – Midlothian *
1211 Huguenot Road
(804) 378-WING
Richmond – West Broad *
7912 West Broad Street
(804) 270-WING
Knuckleheads Roadhouse *
401 North Witchduck Road
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
(757) 644-6200
www.knuckleheadsvb.com
Scooters
6906-B School Ave.
Richmond, Va 23228
804-321-0037
Thunderbird Grill *
201 Battery Park Road
Smithfield, VA 23430
(757) 357-7001
www.ThunderbirdGrill.com
Maryland
ROCKABILLYS*
Bar & Liquor Store
2101-2111 Old Orems Road
Baltimore, MD 21220
(410) 391-0200
rockabilys@aol.com
rockabilys.net
MOTORCYCLE RACING & EVENTS
Maryland International Raceway
www.mirdrag.com
Virginia Motorsports Park *
8018 Boydton Plank Rd.
Petersburg, VA 23803
(804) 862-3174
www.virginiamotorsportspk.com
Dirt Drags at Slade’s Park
111 Mount Ray Drive
Surry, VA 23883
Contact Joe Brookman (804) 221-3959
MOTORCYCLE RENTALS
Virginia
Eagle Rider Winchester *
140 Independence Dr
Winchester, VA 22602
(540) 662-9292
www.EagleRiderWinchester.com
Harley-Davidson/Buell of Ocean City * Graffiti’s Ink Gallery – 3 locations *
10716 Ocean Gateway 2311 Hungary Rd.
Berlin, MD Richmond, VA 23228
(410) 629-1599 (804) 261-5689
www.hdoceancity.com www.graffitistattoo.com
111-A W. Williamsburg Rd. *
Shenandoah Harley-Davidson/Buell * Sandston, VA 23150
213 Rolling Thunder Lane (804) 328-6989
Staunton, VA 24401 www.graffitistattoo.com
(540) 213-8026
www.shenandoahhd.com 7122 Mechanicsville Turnpike *
Mechanicsville, VA 23111
(804) 559-4658
POWDER COATING
www.graffitistattoo.com
Virginia
PERSONAL SERVICES
Iron Core Powdercoat
9802 Hosier St. Suite C Kuttin Station *
Newport News, VA 23601 For ALL your hair needs!
(1 mile north of the James River Bridge) 13509 Boydton Plank Road (Route 1)
(757) 594-0007 or (757) 715-5766 Dinwiddie, VA 23841
ironcorepowdercoat@gmail.com Biker Specials!
(804) 469-9003
J & J Powder Coating
2424 Castleton Commerce Way, Suite 1101
Virginia Beach, VA. 23456
REAL ESTATE
(757) 406-2922
jandjpowdercoating.com
Virginia
FUN PLACES TO STAY
Susan Tate, Realtor *
6150 Mechanicsville Turnpike
Maryland Mechanicsville, Va. 23111
Cell: 804-339-6603
Atlantic Hotel* Toll Free: 877-746-1850
Boardwalk & Wicomico Street Email: Tate.susan@yahoo.com
Ocean City, MD Website: www.Love4RealEstate.com
(410) 289-9111
1-(800) 3-ATLANTIC
www.atlantichotelocmd.com
TOWING
North Carolina
Virginia
Barry’s Walnut Island Restaurant, Lodge,*
Sports Center & Marina
169 Walnut Island Blvd Peaco Towing Inc.
Grandy, NC 27939 6906 School Ave.
(252) 453-4153 Richmond, Va 23228
www.walnutisland.com 804-262-1001
www.Barrysbikerally.com
Comfort Inn Oceanfront South
8031 Old Oregon Inlet Road
Nags Head, NC
(800) 334-3302
Thunder
Virginia
Jams
Rockahock Campgrounds *
1428 Outpost Rd
Lanexa, VA 23089
(804) 966-2759
www.rockahock.com
FUNERAL SERVICES ********************************
Virginia
THE WILDFIRE BAND
Feel the Heat
CycleHearse*
1021-A High Street
Country & Southern Rock Cover Band
Portsmouth, VA 23704
office # 757-398-0419 For Booking info call
fax# 757-398-0449
web: www.cyclehearse.com Jody @ (540) 455-9280 or
Wayne @ (540) 220-4825
TATTOO STUDIOS
www.myspace.com/wildfirebandrocks
City Limits Tattoo & Piercing, Ltd. *
119D Boulevard *********************************
Colonial Heights, VA 23834
(804) 504-0600
www.citylimitstattoo.com
* Pick up your FREE copy of Thunder Roads at these locations
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 33
 HOME SERVICES DIRECTORY
If you’d like to join our Home Services Directory, email
kelly@thunderroads-virginia.com

Home Improvements
A-Team Home Improvements
Specializing in drywall, ceramic tile, painting, decks
and water/fire damage
restoration. Contact Jackie @ (252) 562-3325 or
Billy @ (757) 717-9893 or email us
@ ateamhome@mchsi.co
We serve Hampton Roads, Va. and Northeastern NC.

Upholstering
Albert Upholstery
For your home, specializing in antique furniture upholstery
Serving Dinwiddie County & surrounding areas
(804) 265-5166

Pressure Washing
South’s Mobile Wash
Licensed, Dependable, Reliable Mobile Wash Service
Pressure washing, specializing for Homes, Decks, Fences
Free Estimates (757) 581-2112

Electrical
Mister Sparky
We’re On Time, You’ll See, Or the Repair is Free
Southside Hampton Roads (757) 644-4399
Peninsula (757) 325-9769
www.mistersparky.com

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 34

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 35
 News Bytes
NY STATE POLICE SUED OVER MOTORCYCLE-ONLY
ROADBLOCKS Upstate New York has earned a reputation
as the speeding ticket capital of the country, but even with
overeager state troopers patrolling the highways, motorcy-
clists feel singled out by law enforcement. That’s why one
rider/attorney is taking the state police, along with county
and state officials to court. According to legal documents
filed by Mitch Proner, Aid to Injured Motorcyclists (AIM)
Attorney for New York, the state’s institution of roadblocks
exclusively for motorcyclists is unconstitutional: the mo-
torcyclist and personal injury lawyer claims that without
justifiable cause, the checkpoints infringe on riders’ First
Amendment rights to freedom of assembly and association
and their Fourth Amendment right to freedom from unrea-
sonable search and seizure. For nearly two years now,
the New York State Police (NYSP) have been conducting
highway roadblocks diverting only motorcyclists from the
state’s roadways to perform “safety checks”. According to
ABATE of New York, “Since motorcycles operated in New
York are already required to pass annual safety inspec-
tions, the current NYSP initiative continues to serve only to
harass, intimidate and inconvenience motorcyclists travel-
ing upon the state’s roadways. Further, motorcycle-only
roadblocks of this nature are a discriminatory and uncon-
stitutional infringement upon an individual’s right to travel
without interference, and an abuse of discretionary power
as acknowledged by the New York State Court of Appeals.”
Proner told Autoblog.com that he is filing the federal class
action suit at the Federal Court for the Northern District of
New York on behalf of his fellow riders. ABATE of New York
has pledged support of the class-action initiative brought on
behalf of the National Coalition of Motorcyclists (NCOM).
MULTI-FACETED MOTORCYCLE BILL ENACTED IN
TEXAS Senate Bill 1967, authored by Texas State Sena-
tor John Carona (R-Dallas) and sponsored by Represen-
tative Norma ”Da’Lady” Chavez (D-El Paso), introduces
many motorcycle-related changes in the Lone Star State.
Included in the bill are 1) funding by Texas Department of
Transportation for a public awareness campaign to promote
motorcyclist safety and the concept of sharing the road with
motorcyclists; 2) changes to the definition of a motorcycle to
include certain enclosed three-wheeled passenger vehicles;
3) changes to the licensing requirements for enclosed
three-wheeled passenger vehicles; 4) a requirement for
all applicants for a motorcycle license or endorsement on
a regular or commercial driver’s license to provide proof
of successful completion of a basic motorcycle operator
training course; 5) penalties for failure to yield the right-of-
way violations resulting in bodily injury range from $500 to
$2,000 while those resulting in serious bodily injury range
from $1,000 to $4,000; 6) a prohibition against stopping
or detaining a motorcycle operator or passenger solely to
determine whether the person has successfully completed
a motorcycle operator training and safety course or is cov-
ered by a health insurance plan; 7) a requirement for the
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 36
Department of Transportation to develop a standard of proof
of health insurance coverage for adult motorcycle operators
and passengers; and 8) a requirement that all driver educa-
tion courses or driving safety courses include information on
motorcycle awareness, dangers of failure to yield the right-
of-way to motorcyclists, and the need to share the road with
motorcyclists. Governor Rick Perry signed the bill into law
on June 19; it becomes effective September 1, 2009. “We
made history, Warriors,” exclaimed Sputnik, State Chairman
of the Texas Motorcycle Rights Association (TMRA-II) and
Chairman of the National Coalition of Motorcyclists Legisla-
tive Task Force (NCOM-LTF). “We owe Da’Lady and her
entire staff a huge debt of gratitude for all the work they did
for riders this session.”
MISSOURI RIDERS SEEING RED
For most drivers, red means stop. But if you’re riding a
motorcycle or a bicycle in Missouri , it will soon mean stop,
but only sort of. A new Missouri law that takes effect Aug. 28
allows motorcycle and bike riders to run red lights, but only
if they stop first and the signal remains red for an “unrea-
sonable time.” Missouri will join a growing number of states
that have enacted similar laws, which are intended to ad-
dress occasions when motorcycles or bikes aren’t detected
by traffic signal sensors in the road. Many traffic signals
are triggered by a magnetic reaction coupled with wires
embedded in the pavement. The wires are sized in such a
way that they are more likely to be tripped by a car or truck,
but some motorcycles and bikes tend not to trip the signal
because they have less mass and are made with parts that
aren’t attracted to a magnet. In cities with intersections
patrolled by red-light cameras, when a picture is taken of a
red-light runner, police should be able to apply the law by
looking at video of the possible violation, and if a rider does
get a ticket the new law will provide a defense. Missouri
is the eighth state to pass this kind of law since 2002, and
three other states considered similar legislation this year.
CITIES MUFFLE MOTORCYCLE NOISE
Many state legislatures and city councils are making lots of
noise about motorcycles, with new ordinances popping up
across the country to silence loud exhausts. “Loud Pipes
Save Lives” has been a biker mantra for years, but politi-
cians spurred by citizen complaints have discovered new
ways to muffle unwanted exhaust tones. The Albuquerque
City Council voted 6-3 earlier this month to approve an
ordinance making revving of motorcycle engines downtown
a vehicle nuisance. Amending Section 7-10-3 ROA 1994,
The Vehicle Nuisance Ordinance now reads: “It shall be
unlawful for any person to engage in exhibition driving in
the Downtown Quiet Zone by operating a vehicle in a man-
ner that willfully creates excessive engine noise because
of revving the engine to magnify the engine noise.” Bikers
blasting through East Greenwich , Rhode Island may want
to steer clear of town if their exhaust systems aren’t the
proper match for their bikes. The Town Council unanimously
 News Bytes
passed an emergency ordinance in late July allowing the as if that wasn’t a defiant enough show of unity, a group of
police to pull over and levy fines on bikers if the noise-rating motorcycling enthusiasts, including members of opposing
data stamped into the chrome of their exhaust doesn’t clubs, are only a few application process steps away from
match the label on the bike frame. Modified exhaust sys- forming a legitimate political party. The unlikely alliance,
tems are outlawed. The ordinance, now in effect, provides known as the FREE Australia Party, hopes to hit South Aus-
for fines $500 for the first offense, and jumps to $700 the tralia’s premier where it hurts - in parliament. The party’s
second time and $1,000 for the third and each subsequent leader, Paul Kuhn - a committee member of the Motorcycle
violation. Buddy Cardoso, president of the Rhode Island Riders Association of SA and a Justice of the Peace - said
Motorcycle Association, who said his group supports courte- the group was formed because of deep concern anyone
ous riding, inquired that if the labels have to match, “What associated with a member of a club would be found guilty
do you do, throw away the motorcycle if the exhaust wears under the law. “The Government is now controlling and
out?” Owners of other vehicles are allowed to use after- dictating relationships,” he said. Kuhn is not the only mem-
market exhaust systems, and it is unfair to single out bikers, ber of the public questioning the civil liberties said to be
he said. In West Virginia , the Charleston City Council let lost under the Act. The SA Law Society, the SA Council of
it be known loud and clear that nuisance noise will not be Social Services, various Aboriginal groups, the Greens and
tolerated, and unanimously passed an ordinance on August the Australian Democrats have all voiced concern about
17 to crack down on loud music, barking dogs and rev- the legislation. A member of the Gypsy Jokers MC told the
ving of car and motorcycle engines in residential areas, press services that the event proves that bikie clubs could
with fines up to $250. In an attempt to silence community get along, despite what the Government was trying to show.
concerns regarding excessive motorcycle exhaust sound, “These laws have brought the clubs together,” he said.
the Boston City Council fast-tracked enactment of Docket
0658 on June 3, 2009. The new ordinance mandates that WEIRD NEWS: TURKEY GOES WILD OVER BIKERS
all on-highway motorcycles built after December 31, 1982 Freddy the turkey, the famous and notorious foul who trot-
must have either OEM (original equipment manufacturer) ted around town much to the delight of Easton, Massachu-
or aftermarket exhaust systems that comply with the US setts residents, met his demise this month after becoming
EPA labeling provision in the Code of Federal Regulations. a menace to motorcyclists. The wild turkey wandered out
of the woods and became a common sight and mascot in
Violations will result in a $300 fine. In California earlier this
year a bill was held over that would have required periodic the Five Corners area, where he ruled the roost and was
emissions testing for 2000-and-newer on-road motorcycles often seen gobbling up bargains at the local stores and
in an effort to make aftermarket exhaust systems illegal strutting across busy streets like he was on parade. But the
if they do not comply with EPA labeling. Meanwhile, the gadabout gobbler went from docile dollar-store shopper to
Motorcycle Industry Council has been working with the motorcycle menace over the past few months, prompting
Society of Automotive Engineers International (SAE) to police to put him down. “Things had really gotten nasty,”
produce a stationary roadside sound test standard that can said Police Chief Allen R. Krajcik. “We were thankful there
be used to determine whether a streetbike exhaust system had been no accidents yet. It was only a matter of time be-
emits excessive sound. “The new SAE standard provides fore something happened.” Police began received calls and
a much-needed alternative to outright bans, restrictions and e-mails from motorcyclists asking whether police were wait-
ing for an accident before taking action. “One motorcyclist
sound test standards that vary state to state and city to city,
frustrating riders, exhaust system manufacturers, and mu- told police that the bird flew at his face with his feet forward
nicipal governments alike,” said MIC President Tim Buche. to attack him,” the chief told the local newspaper. To es-
cape, the driver drove through a red light, narrowly avoiding
ANTI-BIKER LAWS UNITING CLUBS an accident. Similar attacks had been reported in increasing
Designed to dismantle “Bikie Gangs”, South Australia’s numbers, and like other repeat offenders Freddy was rack-
recently adopted anti-biker legislation appears to be having ing up a long record of dangerous activity, victimizing mostly
the reverse effect - serving to unite rival clubs. Gypsy Jok- motorcyclists. Meanwhile, police stood by their actions, say-
ers, Hells Angels, Rebels, Finks and Descendents motorcy- ing they initially intended to capture the turkey and relocate
cle club members are coming together in protest against the it to a less populated environment. But the state Division of
Serious and Organised Crime Control Act, which came into Fisheries and Wildlife advised against it, saying the turkey
effect in June last year. The Act is described by the Govern- could introduce diseases to its new habitat, and advised
ment as being the toughest law of its kind in the world, and euthanizing, according to Chief Krajcik.
is designed to dismantle biker “gangs” by declaring mem-
bership or association with outlawed clubs illegal. The Act QUOTABLE QUOTE: “History does not entrust the care of
also includes new charges, which carry up to 10 years jail, freedom to the weak or timid.”
for bikie club members and their associates who engage in Dwight D. Eisenhower
group violence. Hundreds of members of rival clubs partici-
pated in a Freedom of Association Protest Poker Run, and
THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 37
 IF THIS WAS
YOUR AD
Thousands Of Riders Would Be Seeing It Right Now

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 38

 Have you been discord between the Israelites and Arabs ever since.
ever been on What does this have to do with Abraham’s detour? Where
an otherwise do you think he got that Egyptian servant that he had the
enjoyable, long affair with from? She was one of the servants given to him by
ride to someplace Pharaoh while he was on his detour into Egypt.
that you’ve never Be careful of the detours you choose to make in your
been before and life. And be careful of who you follow. You need to choose
suddenly you run someone to follow who will lead you in the right direction.
into a detour? It That person is Jesus Christ. Follow Him and He will keep
can be frustrating, you going where you should be. Proverbs 3:6 tells us to
especially if acknowledge God in all ways and He will direct your path.
you’re depending Sounds like a good Road Captain to me!
on precise directions to lead you to your destination.
Or how about that time when you were on a group ride Always and All Ways in Christ
only to discover that the road captain leading you had <*)))>< Rick ‘Preacher’ Saunders
taken an accidental detour of his own and inadvertently
led you way off course.
Following the right directions is important if you want
to get to where you’re headed. Even if you have never
been there before, good directions that provide you with
the next step on your route will get you where you are
supposed to be.
All too often in life we take a detour from the direction
that we should be going in and can find ourselves in
a mess. The Bible provides us with a couple of good
examples of detours in the very first book: Genesis.
There we find the story of Abraham. God had called
Abraham to leave his country, his people, and his
household to travel to a land that he had never been
to before. Abraham did as instructed and was greatly
blessed, but he also took a couple of detours on the way.
We also find the story of Moses leading the Israelites
out of captivity in Egypt. God led Moses to the boarder
of the Promised Land. Once there, the people feared the
occupants of this land. They did not trust the very God
who not only led them out of Egypt, but who had parted
the Red Sea for their escape. As a result of their fear and
disobedience, they ended up taking a forty-year detour
through the wilderness before entering the Promised
Land.
Abraham’s detour was of his own choosing. While
following God he decided to take a detour into Egypt.
Through Abraham’s disobedience and fear he ended up PREACHER RICK
lying to Pharaoh about his wife and would have lost her if Preacher Rick is an ordained minister serving as Pasto-
it was not for God’s intervention. He ended up being told ral Counselor and staff member at First Baptist Church
to leave Egypt, but not before Pharaoh gave him gifts of of Woodbridge, VA. He is a past president and current
gold, livestock and servants. chaplain of the Northern VA Christian Riders, chapter 348
So, the moral of the story is that if we take our own of the Christian Motorcyclists Association, and has served
selfish detours and disobey God’s plan for our lives we as a chaplain for Truckers Christian Chapel Ministries. He
will be rewarded, right? Wrong! is a graduate of Andersonville Theological Seminary and
Abraham’s detour caused problems for him for the rest the Institute of Theology and Christian Therapy, and is a
of his life. Some years later when his wife was unable member of the American Association of Christian Coun-
to have a child, the decision was made for Abraham to selors and American Association of Christian Therapists.
begin a relationship with his wife’s Egyptian servant. She He lives in Dale City, VA with his wife Teresa and they
got pregnant and had a son, and this created all kinds ride a 1998 95th Anniversary Road King Classic. He
of strife for Abraham’s household. In fact, that son— works full-time as a Computer Operations Supervisor for
Ishmael—became the father of the Arabs, and there has Inova Health System.

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 39

 Advertisers Index September 09

330 Valley Street.......................................................................….38

Atlantic Hotel’s 8th Annual Atlantic Bike Week Party (Event)…...41
Bad Mo’s Custom Cycles…….................................................…11
Baker Street…..........................................................................…..27
Barry’s Walnut Island Restaurant …...............................................35
Big Daddy’z Cycles………................................................…………7
CycleHearse.com……...................................................22
Cycle Thunder…….......................................................................….7
Delmarva Bike Week (Event)…................................................…18
Departure Bike Works…...........................................................….15
Eagle Rider Winchester……..................................................…….34
East Coast Down Biker Rally (Event)…..........................................34
Fast Lane Biker Gear…................................................................18
Foley Motorsports……..............................................................…..15
Graffiti’s Ink Gallery…................…Front Cover (Event) & Calendar Top
Hampton Roads Harley-Davidson….............................................25
Home Subscriptions…................................................................…10
HOOTERS……………....................................................…7
J & J Powdercoating…...........................................................……38
Old Jim Customs OKLAHOMA 405-409-5742
Head Plates….................................................40
Rick “Preacher” Saunders Devotional........................................…7
Shenandoah Harley-Davidson…........................Outside Back Cover
Suffolk Swamp Roar Motorcycle Rally (Event) ….....................29
Susan Tate, Realtor…….......................................................………15
Thunder Roads Harley-Davidson…................................................1
Tom McGrath’s Motorcycle Law Group…............Inside Front Cover

THUNDER ROADS MAGAZINE 40