By Lulu

The expression diamond in the rough comes to mind after the first time I made a visit to Big Bass Grill on Lake Panasoffkee. Situated near 301 it is a 20-minute ride in the country from Inverness, Leesburg, Ocala, or Ridge Manor. It is only a few miles from Bushnell and Webster. A beautiful lake front setting with some of the best food made with a flair of their own. Serving over 300 pounds of catfish a week, the owners are proud of their food and their staff! The food is made to order so don’t expect instant gratification, come to relax and enjoy the surroundings, have a cold one or mixed drink and wait to be surprised not only by the taste but also the size of your meal.

The bar has bike night on Thursdays, now that the clocks have been moved forward allows you to ride out for the live music and $10,99 New York strip dinner with potatoes and corn. I ordered the sloppy joe with potatoes and was surprised that it was a delicious huge serving with a BBQ taste…yummy! If you are up for Leesburg rally this month, take a ride to the country. They open at 11am every day, close at 9pm Sunday through Thursday and open until 10pm Friday & Saturday. Every Saturday and Sunday they have live music and Friday night is karaoke night. The owner, Glenn & Cissy Lofley, both ride Fat Boys. Cissy’s is a 1992 and Glenn’s 2003 Fatboy and they have a motorcycle sitting right inside the bar! They purchased the property in January 2020 right before Covid hit. Finally got the bar opened in September of 2020. Previously they owned Hog Pen Saloon in Tampa for 14 years with Glenn Sr. who passed away in 2014. These two are well loved by the riding community and it is no surprise as they are both genuinely nice, motorcycle riding, hardworking folk.

By Phoenix and Metric-HD

When it comes to helping Veterans, few organizations work harder than the folks at the American Legion Post 69 in Avon Park. Under the leadership of the American Legion Department Project VetRelief, Chairman Larry Roberts and their entire post family, they pulled off their best Veterans Expo of all time. The day started with a twenty-two miles escort of the Vietnam and Global War on Terrorism Walls by the Patriot Guard Riders, the American Legion Riders and about three hundred riders from across the state. We would like to thank both the Polk County and Highlands County Sheriff Officers for a safe escort. When we arrived at the post, we were greeted with a delicious breakfast provided by the Sons, Auxiliary and Post members. The day was filled with activities, food vendors, a car show, and a poker run. Adam Martin and his band “BLACKBIRD ANTHEM” provided some awesome music throughout the day. All the proceeds from the event went to “PROJECT: VETRELIEF” to provide awareness to the twenty-two (22) suicides of Veterans every day. At the end of the event the post raised over $8,000.00 to assist local veterans. Thanks to everyone that made this day a great success. GOD BLESS AMERICA AND OUR VETERANS!!!!!

By Lulu

Superbowl Sunday now for two years in a row we start the afternoon savoring every kind of chili you could taste. Last year we entered and the competition was just too good. This year the chili, cornbread, peanut butter sandwiches and desserts made us so full I should have slept through half time LOL. If you haven’t throttled down to find Bay 3 Bar on US 1 in New Smyrna Beach you will love the owners Jan & Barry. I better warn you they are Steeler fans, but you have until the fall to give up on the Bucs and put on a Steeler jersey. This is a great locals bar with reasonable beer prices and they know how to keep it ICE cold!

By Lulu

The tradition of celebrating panheads, shovelheads and antique bike survives at OB’s in Deland. For 20 years they have put on one hell of a bike show in November with some of the best maintained, or in some cases, restored pieces of motorcycle history you can see anywhere. This year the weather was a bit sketchy but the crowd was still overflowing. The band Papa Wheelee entertained the huge crowd all day. At the time of being ready for print I do not have the winner’s list but more photos are on Facebook for any that you may not find here. This was the first year for the Cap Wilson award which was created as a masterpiece by Squirrel…thank you so much for that. Rue & Ziffra, PA have been a major supporter of this event each year and we thank the law firm for actually being “in our community and on our side”!

By Lulu

Daytona Beach is blessed with one of the most posh “Gentleman’s Night Clubs” in Florida. Grandview not only has extremely talented, gorgeous athletes performing nightly, they also have friendly bartenders who make your favorite cocktails to your liking. The ambiance and lighting make this club friendly for both men and women. From August to mid-October they feature an amateur pole dancing competition and the girls were happy to let us catch them in the act with our cameras.

During Bike Week 2022 Full Throttle will be having a bike show on Thursday, March 10th starting at 8pm, includes a sound competition. So, make sure to check out this beautiful nightclub, the sexy talented women and the awesome bikes at the show.

By Lulu

Tucked in under some big oaks is a cool bar in Deland at 2486 Old New York Ave. During Bike Week 2022 they happen to be having their Chili Cook Off on Saturday, March 6th and last time I was there they had tons of entries to try and live music by the J W Gilmore band, plays a great harmonica and blues on the outdoor stage.

This is a nice ride from Daytona and a good place to get out of the traffic of Bike Week and chill with friends. A huge outdoor area with shady spots to sit is waiting for your bikes to roll in. Owner Ethan Williamson has music scheduled on Saturday, March 12th 2-6pm with Paul Wane and the Duval County Line, I love this band. And one of the favorites in our area is scheduled to be at The Inn Between on Sunday, March 13th 2-6pm Adam James Society. This kid can really make his guitar add excitement to any stage. Regularly scheduled events at The Inn Between include Karaoke on Tuesdays, pool tournament and free pool on Wednesday, and Thursday is ladies’ night. So “Stay Trashy By The Tracks” at the “shack” known for cold beer, hot girls, and a good pour on your cocktails! They open Monday through Thursday at noon. Friday through Sunday at 11am.

By Lulu

Sandrine Robertson was born in Normandy. Sandrine’s family moved when she was six and she grew up in the vineyards of southern France. She started visiting Daytona Bike Week for her 21st birthday. Flying all the way from her home, this beautiful blue eyed French girl fell for a biker who brought her to Daytona Beach of all places. She became friends with Peeen who owned the Circus bars in town and moved here in 2008. They ended up opening The Hideout at 1120 Derbyshire in 2012. They will be celebrating their 10th anniversary this May.

In 2019 Sandrine bought Peeen out of the bar and now controls the reins of The Hideout. She is sweet, friendly, and still a pretty little blue eyed French girl with a heavy French accent. Sandrine married Craig 14 years ago and they have a 13-year-old son Evan. Craig works for Teledyne in the oil & gas business. I asked her how Craig feels about her owning the bar and she laughs and says when the bar business is doing good, he calls “The Hideout our bar…when it isn’t doing so good, he calls it my bar.” Sandrine is quick to help with poker runs and charities. She is involved in raising funds for the Daytona Athletic Assoc. Basketball teams which help keep young kids off the streets and out of trouble. Also, she does a yearly event to help Vets at Christmas. I personally saw her jump right in and help with baskets for Willie and Cap’s runs this year! I asked Sandrine does she still ride her own bike and she said with a sheepish grin, “I sold it to a customer because I needed a zero-turn lawnmower more.” It is hard to get out and about when you are holding the fort down on your own business.

The Hideout is a full liquor bar with ice cold beer. Package purchases are available. Her food selection is hot pretzels, pizza, and wine platters. The bartenders Jocelyn, Gina, Melissa, Kim, Tara, Tania, and CP are friendly and fun. The regulars, including Eric from Superwash and Jimmy Tacoma are always a hoot. The prices stay the same during events and longnecks are still just $2.75. On Sundays Tara does amazing Bloody Mary’s starting at 9am for $4.

The bar has live music a few days a month and you can find the schedule in their ad here or on Facebook. Dirty Bingo with Jeff & Nina is on the first & third Thursdays. Pool tournaments are Monday, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Dart tournament is Mondays and Dart league is Tuesdays and the first & third Fridays. As you can tell there is always something going on at Sandrine’s Hideout so put your kickstands up and visit, they are open 7 days a week from 9am-2am.

By Tony & T-Rex

It’s Sunday Funday and a few weeks earlier I got a phone call from J. D. from American Legion Post 81 and he says they are having their 100th Anniversary party starts at noon, don’t be late. Always late when you say that, but we fire up the *farm tractor* and we are off down 95 to Melbourne.

The party is on, the band Kaotic Realm is playing, their food is cooking, I run into J. D. he says stick around and watch them get the commander ‘Stretch” in the dunk tank. Raffles are being sold and a gentleman whose name I didn’t catch is selling great wood carvings. But think about it.100 years. How did it start? So, J.D. gave me a history lesson on it and there’s a lot, but I’ll keep it short. In 1921, 29 veterans mostly WW1 met in Melbourne to form ALP 81. The post named in honor of Frank B. Huddleston who was killed in France in 1918. In1926 the legion erects their building between Strawbridge Ave. and Palmetto Ave. Unfortunately, the legion lost that location due to the depression. Now Trinity Towers West occupies that location.

We are going to fast forward to 1930. American Legion Auxillary Unit 81 is founded and then 1941 Sons of American Legion Squadron 81. 2006 American Legion Riders Chapter 81 was formed. Like I said, trying to keep it short, but at least it isn’t a 100-word article. LOL.

In 1948 where we are sitting now was donated by Chester McNulty. The original buildings were two Quonset huts from the Banana River Air Station. Roofs were added, porches built and in 2020 Post 81 undergoes a total interior renovation, mostly done by members volunteering their time and service.
So, congratulations on 100 years and if ya missed this party, we will see you at the next.
Ride safe and see you on the road…

By Lulu

We love to congratulate a business for making it through another year successfully, and Pirate’s Pub just blew out fifteen candles! Pirate’s Pub in Paisley is a great bar that is a beautiful ride from Daytona, Ocala, and Leesburg. And to celebrate a year after all the problems with Covid and employment issues is a GREAT FEAT! The bar is in Lake County and is full liquor with ICE COLD beer and one of the hottest bartenders in ANY county! Live music by Conflict of Interest entertained the large crowd for the party. Their biggest party each year is the TOO BROKE FOR STURGIS party in August on Saturday, August 6th. Whether for a ride in the country, their monthly Classic Car Show on the 2nd Saturday or one of their parties put Pirate’s Pub on your MUST VISIT list. The are open 7 days a week, open at noon on weekdays and 11am on weekends.

By Lulu

Sometimes a white knight rides a Harley! And Willie Jones from Tropical Tattoo is just that to the veterans who reside at Emory Bennett VA Nursing Home. Twice a year during Bike Week and Biketoberfest, Willie and his amazing peeps put on THE BIKE SHOW of the rallies. And what many do not know is that the proceeds from the event benefit the Veteran’s Coalition. Mike Erthal who mans the Veterans Coalition Fund says that the home has approximately 90 residents that Chopper Time benefits. Willie has been dressing up as Santa for the past five years and visits the men and women residents fulfilling their Christmas wish lists! In his words, “It becomes personal once you meet the brave men and women who served in the military guaranteeing our freedom.” Willie will be the first to tell you he can’t do this alone. It takes all his staff, friends and sponsors which includes Rue & Ziffra, PA, Twisted Tea, Hot Leathers, Grandview Live, Hardcore Cycles, S&S, Bling Cycles, Dave Perewitz, B&D Customs, Speedking Racing, Mo’s Image Customs, Bikernet, Riders Now, Cochise Chops, Bare Bones Leather, Biltwell, V-Twin, Spectro Oil, Bikerphotog.com, Southern Cycles and A1. The law firm, Rue & Ziffra, P.A. has sponsored this event for years now. Roadside Marty has been working the mic and the crowd since 2002, trying to keep the show on track. Chris & Heather from Cycle Source really help Willie pull this event off each year. Last year was particularly difficult for Willie and there was even talk of not having the show after his injuries from a bad motorcycle wreck, but the “show must go on” for the much-needed funds to be raised for the vets!

The show consists of unique motorcycle creations. It is $20 to enter your masterpiece which helps offset the cost of putting the event on and increases the kitty for the veterans. Along with the bike show you will find hot girls, a great band this year featuring Big Rick & The Troublemakers, and BBQ. The alcohol sale proceeds benefit the Coalition.

Since 1991 Willie has owned Tropical Tattoo at 825 S Yonge St. What started with Willie, Mad Jack, and Bobby D etching ink, now 20 years later, Tropical has Katie, Alexa, Clay, Ron, Skully, John & Matt busy taking skin and turning it into art. So, while you are spending the day at Chopper Time, get inked with something to remember Bike Week 2022. See J.T., the floor manager to schedule an appointment.

A special word of thanks to each one that shows up year after year to make this one of the few Bike Week events, that because of your attendance, brightens a Veterans life. So, see you at Chopper Time 2022 on Thursday, March 10th!

By Donna Chapman

Several members of SCHOG Inc. celebrated New Year’s by camping at Renegades on the River. The days were spent visiting several establishments that are advertised in SCHOG’s year-long poker book, getting those books stamped. The stops included some Thunder Roads Florida’s favorites Long’s Log Cabin in Welaka, Swashbuckler’s Marina (the old Hermit’s Cove) and The Hideaway.
Meals together were always enjoyable sitting around talking about all the fun times, recalling loved ones who are no longer with us, and making plans for the future. The evenings you could always find us at the Tiki Bar at “Renegade’s” dancing, drinking, and partying. This year’s band Oaklee was awesome! The best part…our beds were all within walking distance. Thanks to Donnie & Lisa ( Owners of Renegades) for another awesome camping experience. See ya in 2022! Make your reservations early as the cabins and RV spots stay booked!!!

FEBRUARY 1 (Tuesday)

DIRTY BINGO-PORT ORANGE, The Dog House, 3400 S. Nova Rd., 7p, 386-872-7291

FEBRUARY 2 (Wednesday)

JOE SANTANA BIKE NIGHT & GROUNDHOG PARTY-DAYTONA BEACH, Boot Hill Saloon, 310 Main St., 8:30P

FEBRUARY 3 (Thursday)

IKES BIKE NIGHT-BUNNELL, Ike’s, 801 S. State St., 6p, food, fun, 386-313-6742

NEW SMYRNA H-D BIKE NIGHT-NEW SMYRNA, 1899 SR 44, 4-6p, 386-671-7100

HOUSTON KEEN-CRESCENT CITY, Renegades on the River, 1171 CR 309, 386-524-4052

DIRTY BINGO WITH JEFF & NINA-HOLLY HILL, The Hideout, 1120 Derbyshire, 386-319-8715

FEBRUARY 4 (Friday)

DUVAL COUNTY LINE-CRESCENT CITY, Renegades on the River, 1171 CR 309, 386-524-4052

MURDER HORNETS-DAYTONA BEACH, Boot Hill Saloon, 310 Main St.. 9P

BLIND DRAW DARTS WITH RON RICE-HOLLY HILL, The Hideout, 1120 Derbyshire, 386-319-8715

FEBRUARY 4 & 5 (Friday & Saturday)

AFTERLIFE-SOUTH DAYTONA, Mark’s Sports Pub, 2045 S. Ridgewood Ave., 386-767-BARS

FEBRUARY 4-6 (Friday-Sunday)

WOMEN WHO RIDE WEEKEND-ORMOND BEACH, Saints & Sinners Pub, 1637 N US 1, live rock & roll music, 386-671-7100, BruceRossmeyer.com

“NEIGHBOR HATERS” WEEKEND-NEW SMYRNA BEACH, 1899 SR 44, Exhaust workshop with free install for purchase of slip ons, 386-409-3034, BruceRossmeyer.com

FEBRUARY 5 (Saturday)

BIKE NIGHT-OCALAHAN’S BIKE NIGHT-OCALA, Ocalahan’s, 3155 E. Silver Springs Blvd, live music by TORN 5-9p, 352-351-5458

SPECIAL DIRTY BINGOWITH JEFF & NINA-BUNNELL, Crossroads Tavern, 111 N State St., 7p, 386-313-1444

SPACE COAST H-D LADIES RIDE DAY-PALM BAY, Space Coast H-D, 1440 Sportsman Lane NE, hosted by Chicks That Ride, 11a KSU, music, food truck, free beer, 321-259-1311, SpaceCoastHarley.com

HANDLEBAR WORKSHOP & BIKER JAM- ORMOND BEACH, Bruce Rossmeyer’s Daytona H-D, 1637 N US 1, 386-671-7100, workshop inside showroom at noon, biker jam 1-5p, double rewards, live music, BruceRossmeyer.com

TRIBUTE TO BLACK HISTORY IRONELITE 2022-JACKSONVILLE, Adamec Baymeadows, 8909 Baymeadows Rd., noon-5p, hosted by Big Sarge, drinks, vendors, & more, Gift certificate for most represented, best dressed Harley, loudest pipes, open to public, Fleet DJs/DJ Memphis, 904-493-1931, AdamecHarley.com

CUSTOMER APPRECIATION-PALM BAY, Space Coast H-D, 1440 Sportsman Ln, 12-4P live music free food noon-1:30p, beer, live music, spacecoastharley.com

SESAME PLEXER-DAYTONA BEACH, Boot Hill Saloon, 310 Main St., 9p

OUTBREAK-CRESCENT CITY, Renegades on the River, 1171 CR 309, 386-524-4052

“NEIGHBOR HATERS” EXHAUST WORKSHOP-NEW SMYRNA BEACH, 1899 SR 44, NOON-5P, 386-409-3034, BruceRossmeyer.com

American Legion Post 359-Port St. John, 7260 S US 1, 321-268-1632, 1-5pm, $6 food, t-shirts, raffles, 50/50, live music, huge outside deck

FEBRUARY 6 (Sunday)

DEBBIE & BRET-DAYTONA BEACH, Boot Hill Saloon, 310 Main St., 3p

LAID BACK SUNDAYS -PALM BAY, Space Coast H-D, 1440 Sportsman Ln, live music by Eternal Soul 11-5p, food trucks, spacecoastharley.com

FEBRUARY 7-14 (Monday-Monday)

THEATER X SALE-ORANGE HEIGHTS, 6810 NE Hwy 301, 352-468-2746

FEBRUARY 8 (Tuesday)

TACO TUESDAY-PALM BAY, Space Coast H-D, 1440 Sportsman Ln, 7P, meet at dealership, KSU 7:45p, spacecoastharley.com

DIRTY BINGO-PORT ORANGE, The Dog House, 3400 S. Nova Rd., 7p, 386-872-7291

FEBRUARY 9 (Wednesday)

FAT CACTUS-DAYTONA BEACH, Boot Hill Saloon, 310 Main St., 8:30p

FEBRUARY 10 (Thursday)

MICRO WRESTLING-DELAND, OB’s, 1750 N. Woodland Blvd., 8p, 386-943-9600

FEBRUARY 11 (Friday)

MONKEY WRENCH-CRESCENT CITY, Renegades on the River, 1171 CR 309, 386-524-4052

GREENTREE BROTHERS-SOUTH DAYTONA, Mark’s Sports Pub, 2045 S. Ridgewood Ave., 386-767-BARS

FEBRUARY 12 (Saturday)

CAR CRUISE IN-PAISLEY, Pirate’s Pub, 25031 CR 42, 352-669-3872

LONELY HIGHWAY-CRESCENT CITY, Renegades on the River, 1171 CR 309, 386-524-4052

SESAME PLEXER-SOUTH DAYTONA, Mark’s Sports Pub, 2045 S. Ridgewood Ave., 386-767-BARS

MYSTERY RIDE-PORT ORANGE, The Boat Bar, US 1, KSU 10:30a, $5 includes meal and 50/50, 386-333-9909

2 WHEEL AUDIO COMPETITION & SIP AND SHOP- ORMOND BEACH, Bruce Rossmeyer’s Daytona H-D, 1637 N US 1, Champagne, chocolates & 20% off jewelry in store, 386-671-7100, BruceRossmeyer.com

MURDER HORNETS-DAYTONA BEACH, Boot Hill Saloon, 310 Main St., 9p

SIP & SHOP-NEW SMYRNA BEACH, 1899 SR 44, Champagne, chocolates & 20% off jewelry, 386-409-3034, BruceRossmeyer.com

DOG HOUSE CHILI COOKOFF-PORT ORANGE, The Dog House, 3400 S. Nova Rd., $500 cash prize, benefits 50 Legs, reg deadline 2/9, 1:45p, Crashrocket 6p, 386-872-7291

FEBRUARY 13 (Sunday)

SUPER BOWL PARTY-PORT ORANGE, The Boat Bar, US 1, 386-333-9909

SUPER BOWL PARTY & CHILI COOKOFF-NEW SMYRNA BEACH, Bay 3 Bar, 2810 N Dixie Freeway, must register by 2/6 to enter, 2PM, winners at 5p, 386-957-3745

SUPER BOWL PARTY-PORT ORANGE, First Turn, 5236 S. Ridgewood, free shots bartender’s choice during half time, $15 sampler platter, $2 Bud, Bud Lite, Miller Lite and Coors Lite during game, 386-788-5434

SUPER BOWL PARTY--SOUTH DAYTONA, Mark’s Sports Pub, 2045 S. Ridgewood Ave., giant projection screen, extra surround sound, 386-767-BARS

HARLEY HANGOUTS BIKER BREAKFAST-PALM BAY, Space Coast H-D, 1440 Sportsman Ln, 10-11:30a, spacecoastharley.com

DINA & DAVE-DAYTONA BEACH, Boot Hill Saloon, 310 Main St., 3p

HOT DOG & BURGERS COOKOUT SUPERBOWL PARTY-NEW SMYRNA BEACH, 1899 SR 44, NOON, 386-409-3034, BruceRossmeyer.com

SUPERBOWL PARTY-BUNNELL, Crossroads Tavern, 111 N. State St., 6p, free food & drink specials, bring a dish to share, 386-313-1444

SUPERBOWL PARTY-PORT ORANGE, The Boat Bar, US 1, 386-333-9909

BRUCE ROSSMEYER’S DESTINATION DAYTONA SUPER SWAP SUNDAY CAR & MOTORCYCLE SWAP MEET-ORMOND BEACH-1637 N US 1, 8am, 18 x 30 Vendor Spots $10. Shoppers Shop Free. 386-671-7100. BruceRossmeyer.com

FEBRUARY 14 (Monday)

VALENTINES DAY PARTY-DELAND, OB’s, 1750 Woodland Blvd., 6-10p, Claire Vandiver, $2 wine, well, draft, $25 filet & shrimp dinner, 386-943-9600

25th ANNUAL ABATE FREEDOM RIDE-MONTICELLO, Super 8 Motel, 140 Pafford Rd., Ride to the State Capitol, KSU 9a, hotel 850-997-8888, 386-943-9610

FEBRUARY 15 (Tuesday)

DIRTY BINGO-PORT ORANGE, The Dog House, 3400 S. Nova Rd., 7p, 386-872-7291

FEBRUARY 16 (Wednesday)

DIRTY BINGO-BUNNELL, Crossroads Tavern, 111 N State St., 7p, 386-313-1444

FEBRUARY 17 (Thursday)

BRETT GU 3-CRESCENT CITY, Renegades on the River, 1171 CR 309, 386-524-4052

DIRTY BINGO WITH JEFF & NINA-HOLLY HILL, The Hideout, 1120 Derbyshire, 386-319-8715

SESAME PLEXER-DAYTONA BEACH, Boot Hill Saloon, 310 Main St., 9p

FEBRUARY 18 (Friday)

SOUTHBOUND 41-CRESCENT CITY, Renegades on the River, 1171 CR 309, 386-524-4052

MAX Q-HOLLY HILL, The Hideout Lounge, 1120 Derbyshire Blvd., 8p-midnite, 386-310-8715

MURDER HORNETS-SOUTH DAYTONA, Mark’s Sports Pub, 2045 S. Ridgewood Ave., 386-767-BARS

REDLINE-DAYTONA BEACH, Boot Hill Saloon, 310 Main St., 9p

FEBRUARY 18-20 (Friday-Sunday)

24th THUNDER BY THE BAY MUSIC & MOTORCYCLES FEST-SARASOTA, Fairgrounds, 3000 Ringling Blvd., $5 gate entry Fri & Sun and $10 Sat, live music featuring Firehouse headliner, Slippery When Wet, Tobacco Rd. Band, Free Fallin, Diary of Ozzman, 30ot6, The Verge, Bobby Friss, 17 class bike show with cash prizes and trophies $20 entry, VIP experience, vendors, patriotic MC charity ride on Saturday, sound off contest, burnout contest, 80 vendors, onsite camping available

FEBRUARY 19 (Saturday)

5TH ANNUAL WOUNDED VET RUN-LEESBURG, Lake Square Mall, 10401 US Hwy 441, $15 pp, KSU 11:30a, escorted run to Gator HD, for ceremony, food, full bar, vendors, live music by Twisted Minds noon-4p, benefits Purple Heart recipient Lyndon Ortiz, GatorHarley.com

RED GATE-HOLLY HILL, The Hideout Lounge, 1120 Derbyshire Blvd., 8p-midnite, 386-310-8715

JACK KNIFE-DAYTONA BEACH, Boot Hill Saloon, 310 Main St., 9p

FAT CACTUS-CRESCENT CITY, Renegades on the River, 1171 CR 309, 386-524-4052

BREVARD BIKE NIGHT-PALM BAY, Space Coast H-D, 1440 Sportsman Ln, Stunts, free parking, free beer, 5-9p, spacecoastharley.com

AMY & DONNIE’S BIRTHDAY BASH-PALATKA, 3-D Saloon, 101 S. 10th St., low country boil 5p, live music by Lazy J & Company blues & rock, 386-530-2282

CAR & BIKE NIGHT-OCALA, Moose Lodge #1199, 7165 SE Maricamp Rd., 2-5p

FEBRUARY 20 (Sunday)

DAYTONA 500

18th MIDWEST MOTORCYCLES ANTIQUE & CUSTOM MOTORCYCLE SHOW-ORMOND BEACH, Beaver Bar, 1105 N US Hwy 1, breakfast avail until 11a, Reg 9a, live music, trophies, vendors, 386-673-3400

SWAP MEET-DELAND, The Inn Between, 2486 Old New York Ave., 11a-6p,

386-469-9271

CLASSIC CAR & TRUCK SHOW-SAMSULA, Cabbage Patch Bar, 549 Tomoka Farms Rd., 11a-3p, 386-427-8969

FEBRUARY 22 (Tuesday)

DIRTY BINGO-PORT ORANGE, The Dog House, 3400 S. Nova Rd., 7p, 386-872-7291

FEBRUARY 23 (Wednesday)

FAT CITY-DAYTONA BEACH, Boot Hill Saloon, 310 Main St., 8:30p

FEBRUARY 24 (Thursday)

BIKE NIGHT-PALM BAY, American Legion Post 117, 189 Veteran’s Dr., food, raffles, DJ music, 6-9p, 321-729-808

FEBRUARY 25 (Friday)

STRAYIN’ ANCHORS-CRESCENT CITY, Renegades on the River, 1171 CR 309, 386-524-4052

BLIND DRAW DARTS WITH RON RICE-HOLLY HILL, The Hideout, 1120 Derbyshire, 386-319-8715

GUNSHY-SOUTH DAYTONA, Mark’s Sports Pub, 2045 S. Ridgewood Ave., 386-767-BARS

PSYCHOMAGNETS-DAYTONA BEACH, Boot Hill Saloon, 310 Main St., 9p

FEBRUARY 26 (Saturday)

13th RIDE FOR THE STONE-APOPKA, Apopka Elks 2422, 201 W. Orange St., Reg 8:30-10a, KSU 10:30a, free pancakes while supply lasts, $20 per rider includes special raffle ticket and dinner, $5 extra hands, all vehicles welcome, live entertainment, bradleysummersillfoundation.org

DAYTONA H-D CIVILIAN MC SKILLS COMPETITION- ORMOND BEACH, Bruce Rossmeyer’s Daytona H-D, 1637 N US 1, Benefits Volusia County Sheriffs Charity Committee, 386-671-7100, BruceRossmeyer.com

FAT CACTUS-DAYTONA BEACH, Boot Hill Saloon, 310 Main St., 9P

LADIES BOXING–PALM BAY, Space Coast H-D, 1440 Sportsman Ln, 10-11:30a, spacecoastharley.com, 2bigboxing@gmail.com

SOUTHBOUND EXPRESS-CRESCENT CITY, Renegades on the River, 1171 CR 309, 386-524-4052

DEALER’S RIDE-NEW SMYRNA BEACH, 1899 SR 44, Ride to Guiseppi’s, noon386-409-3034, BruceRossmeyer.com

FEBRUARY 26-27 (Saturday-Sunday)

BIKE WEEK KICK OFF PARTY-JACKSONVILLE, Adamec Baymeadows, 8909 Baymeadows Rd., vendors, bands, beer, food & more, Demo truck for 2022s 11a-5p, 904-493-1931, AdamecHarley.com/bikeweek2022

FEBRUARY 27 (Sunday)

THROTTLE & BOTTLES RIDE-IN BIKE SHOW-MELROSE, Howlin Wolf, 1701 SR 100, reg 10-noon, awards 5p, $10 entry per bike, sponsors & vendors wanted, live music noon-6p by The Third Degree Band, 386-983-2810, TheHowlinWolf2020@yahoo.com

LAID BACK SUNDAYS -PALM BAY, Space Coast H-D, 1440 Sportsman Ln, live music by Eternal Soul 11-5p, food trucks, spacecoastharley.com

MARCH

MARCH 2 (Wednesday)

DIRTY BINGO-BUNNELL, Crossroads Tavern, 111 N State St., 7p, 386-313-1444

MARCH 3-5 (Thursday-Saturday)

AMCA NATIONALS SUNSHINE CHAPTER 2022-NEW SMYRNA BEACH, 625 Tomoka Farms Rd., swap meet vendors, live entertainment, field games, bike competition, Chop Doc Ride In Bike show in Pavillion Saturday

MARCH 5 (Saturday)

OCALAHAN’S BIKE NIGHT-OCALA, Ocalahan’s, 3155 E. Silver Springs Blvd, live music by The Dalton Gang, 5-9p, 352-351-5458

MARCH 4-13 (Friday-Sunday)

BIKE WEEK 2022-DAYTONA BEACH

MARCH 4-13 (Friday-Sunday)

BIKE RALLY SPACE COAST H-D-PALM BAY, 1440 Sportsman Ln, bikini bike wash, full bar, giveaways, live music daily, vendors, food trucks, stunt show, spacecoastharley.com

MARCH 4-13 (Friday-Sunday)

BIKE WEEK PARTY-ST. AUGUSTINE, Adamec St. Augustine, 380 Outlet Mall Blvd., Tribute Bands Motley Crue, Aerosmith, Van Halen, Guns & Roses, South Florida Xtreme Pro BMX Stunt Show 3/11-13, Alleywood Kustoms Bike Show & Pro Builder Invitational 3/12, Ives Brothers Wall of Steel 3/4 3/6, 904-831-1931, AdamecHarley.com/bikeweek2022

MARCH 5 (Saturday)

FULL THROTTLE BIKE SHOW-ORMOND BEACH, Bruce Rossmeyer’s Daytona H-D, 1637 N US 1, 386-671-7100, BruceRossmeyer.com

DELAND BIKE RALLY-DELAND, Downtown, starts 10a, vendors, live music

MARCH 6 (Sunday)

BUILDERS BREAKFAST HARDCORE CYCLES PERFORMANCE SHOW-ORMOND BEACH, Bruce Rossmeyer’s Daytona H-D, 1637 N US 1, 386-671-7100, BruceRossmeyer.com

MARCH 10 (Thursday)

CHOPPER TIME-ORMOND BEACH, Tropical Tattoo 825 S. Yonge St., noon-5p, live music, best bike show, food, drink sales profit Veteran’s Fund, 386-672-1888, TropicalTattoo.com

REVELATION 1 LADIES BIKE SHOW- ORMOND BEACH, Bruce Rossmeyer’s Daytona H-D, 1637 N US 1, 386-671-7100, BruceRossmeyer.com

MARCH 12 (Saturday)

JACKYL CONCERT-ORMOND BEACH, Bruce Rossmeyer’s Daytona H-D, 1637 N US 1, 386-671-7100, BruceRossmeyer.com

MARCH 16 (Wednesday)

DIRTY BINGO-BUNNELL, Crossroads Tavern, 111 N State St., 7p, 386-313-1444

MARCH 26 (Saturday)

CENTRAL FLORIDA RIDE FOR OUR TROOPS-LEESBURG, Gator H-D, 1745 US Hwy 441, 9a-4p, $20 pp, Reg 9-1045a, KSU 11a, pre-reg central-florida-ride-for-our-troops.eventbrite.com, escorted ride, live music by Hypersona noon-4p, War on Terrrorism and Vietnam Wall at Gator, 352-787-8050, GatorHarley.com

K9 WAR DOG RIDE POKER CHIP RUN-DAPHNE, ALABAMA, Top of the Bay 28971, Reg 9-10:30a- KSU 10:30a, LBI 3p, $20 per bike, $10 passenger

MARCH 30 (Wednesday)

DIRTY BINGO-BUNNELL, Crossroads Tavern, 111 N State St., 7p, 386-313-1444

APRIL

APRIL 2 (Saturday)

OCALAHAN’S BIKE NIGHT-OCALA, Ocalahan’s, 3155 E. Silver Springs Blvd, live music by Bobby Friss, 6-10p, 352-351-5458

APRIL23 (Saturday)

22nd RIDING INTO HISTORY-ST. AUGUSTINE, World Golf Village, benefits K9 for

Warriors, Grand Marshal Paul Teutel, Jr., RidingIntoHistory.org

APRIL 27-MAY 1

THUNDER BEACH SPRING RALLY-PANAMA CITY BEACH

OCTOBER

OCTOBER 19-23

THUNDER BEACH FALL RALLY-PANAMA CITY BEACH

By T. J. Costa

One of the victims of the Covid 19 Pandemic was the Leesburg Bike Festival. The organizers of the rally were forced to cancel the popular spring event during the shutdown of 2020. In 2021 they held off again but then decided to move ahead with the event in November instead, and it was a huge success. Leesburg came back full speed ahead with Saliva, Hoobastank, Lit, and Eddie Montgomery rocking the huge crowds nightly throughout the weekend. Florida loves this rally and it was evident, as the city was packed full of loyal bikers. It was good to see business as usual downtown with multiple stages, hundreds of vendors and people enjoying themselves.
During the Rallies absence in ’20 and ‘21, Gator Harley Davidson felt that the show must go on so they filled the gap with their own “Gator Bike Rally”. Jan and the staff at Gator really know how to throw a party and they had crowds like they would during the usual rally season. The live music and vendors lineup goes all day everyday and of course there are many shiny new bikes to ride away on if you feel the itch.

Leesburg weekend is also about the riding. Lake, Sumter and Marion counties have beautiful rural areas with awesome country riding. Several motorcycle friendly watering holes dot the countryside and welcome us with open arms. Eaton’s Beach on Lake Weir in Weirsdale is a favorite and just down the road a bit is the quaint little town of Tavares (America’s Seaplane City). We always spend a few hours with Andy, Proprietor at our favorite spot, Hemingway’s Cigar Bar. This time we took our friend George from Chrome Premium Cigars with us to make some smoke down by the lake. We discovered a new place right across the street called The Dog House. It’s a sports bar with a hot dog flare so I had to have one and it was delicious. Take a cruise down there next time and tell them Thunder Roads Florida sent you.

We are still waiting on news and/or dates for 2022 Leesburg Bike Fest. We will keep you posted with updates right here so heads up. Hoping they get back to a regular schedule.

by Phoenix and Metric

A childhood visit to Arlington Cemetery inspired one of the largest salutes to Veterans around the world. Morrill and Karen Worcester of Worcester Wreath Company in Harrington, Maine started this tradition in 1992. Morrill had a surplus of wreaths left over after the Christmas season, so Morrill was inspired to donate the leftover wreaths to Arlington Cemetery to honor the Veterans who have given the ultimate sacrifice. The annual event steadily continued to grow until 2005 after a picture of the snow-covered wreaths hit the internet and it exploded into a national event. In 2008, Congress designated the day as ‘Wreaths Across America Day”. Today, wreaths are placed on Veteran’s graves on the second or third weekend in December around the world. This year we added one more location to the mix. Lakeview Memorial Gardens in Avon Park, Florida continued the tradition by hosting their first annual Wreaths Across America wreath laying ceremony. We would like to thank everyone who contributed to our first event. Special recognition to the American Legion Riders from Post 69 in Avon Park for showing up in force and contributing the largest number of wreaths.

I would like to challenge all clubs, organizations, and businesses to support this worthy endeavor. Our hopes and dreams are that every Veteran around the world will have a wreath someday. For more information on Wreaths Across America go to: www.WreathsAcrossAmerica.org.

by Phoenix and Metric

There is an old saying that whatever you do on New Year’s Day you do all year. So, my New Year’s resolutions for 2022 are: I’m going to get healthier, spend more “Quality” time with Phoenix and ride more. While a lot of places around the country are snowed in or locked down with the virus, we live in the in the heart of the “FREE” state of Florida. Phoenix and I got a jump on the “Quality” time and then we took a ride out to Herb’s Limestone Country Club. The folks at Herb’s Limestone host a monthly BBQ, Blues, Bikes and Beer event. While Herb’s is a little hard to find it is well worth a trip out there. There is always a great food and music at their monthly events. To kick off 2022 they had the “FLORIDA BOYS” cranking out great tunes while “Johnnie’s Old-Fashioned BBQ served up some of the most mouthwatering, delicious BBQ you have ever tasted. So, if you are looking for a great ride with great food and music check out Herb’s Limestone. Just to recap my resolutions, I still haven’t hit the gym in 2022, but two out of three isn’t bad. Have a HAPPY NEW YEAR and I hope to see you out on the road. RIDE SAFE AND GOD BLESS.