By Lulu

Thunder Beach Rally occurs twice a year…God willing! Between COVID-19 and hurricanes they have had a string of hard luck with cancellations. Last minute, the city decided to let “the show go on”! Of course, Thunder Beach Productions had to jump through the Covid hoops of masks, hand sanitizers, no big bands, no tents for large gathering, etc.!!! But the city was smarter than the City of Daytona Beach who tried to cancel Biketoberfest…and then Ormond Beach picked up the ball knowing full well bikers were coming COVID or not! So it was for Panama City Beach. I was surprised with the last-minute revival of the fall rally how many bikers made the trip to one of the most beautiful beaches in the U.S. With not having the big stage in Frank Brown park, the Ms. Panama City contest was held at Hammerhead Fred’s and the Harley giveaway was held at Harley-Davidson of Panama City Beach. The vendors were happy to have a venue to sell their wares I am sure. One of the biggest events was the Sound Contest at Frank Brown at night, featuring amazing bikes and sound systems! The rain on Saturday cancelled the memorial ride for a fallen officer Kevin Kight, but many still weathered the storm and I took a group shot of those who were there to honor his memory. Officer Kight’s wife and son were there and were thankful for those who came. His young son has followed in his footsteps and is a police officer now. The bike show was also cancelled due to the rainstorm. A special shout out to Holiday Inn Resort for wonderful accommodations!! The pool, room and view are amazing! By springtime, the new Lazy River beachside they are building to add to the resort should be complete. Book your room for the spring rally now! The dates are April 28-May 2…make this your 2021 vacation!!