By Lulu

If you ride and live in the greater Daytona area you are certain to spend New Year’s Eve on Main Street. The street was closed to traffic and the ball dropped at midnight and fireworks spray to announce the ending of a year and the birth of a new one. The Boot Hill Saloon made the evening extra special with Miss Intent rocking the stage. The crowd was huge and Karin had a spread of food at midnight for those who could eat after downing beers and cocktails all night long! The Rock of Daytona throws their anniversary or “birthday” party at the Boot on New Year’s and so Frank, Patty and Rhonda were throwing out freebies and slicing cake. Don’t forget that all year long The Boot Hill has Wednesday night bike nights and live music 6 days a week, it isn’t just a spot to party during Bike Week, Biketoberfest or New Year’s Eve. They love their bikers everyday!

by Kim Chalmers

The thunder or rumbling of motorcycles overpowered the sound of crashing waves as Pensacola Beach opened its arms to the Thunder Beach Bike Rally for one exciting day. As a Pensacola, Florida native, I’ve seen the devastation of storms from Frederick to Ivan; however, our coastal towns had never seen the catastrophic devastation of a storm like Hurricane Michael, destroying everything in its 350-mile wide path, including Panama City and Mexico Beach.

A determined Event Director and a sympathetic community rallied together to move the event to Pensacola. They made sure it had all the things that make Thunder Beach such a great Rally, including a great bike show, clothing booths, food, multiple custom motorcycle vendors, lots of entertainment and a scenic ride from Pensacola Beach to Perdido Key to the Famous, Flora Bama for even more music and fun.

The outpouring of support heated up an otherwise chilly day and everyone seemed to have the same purpose, to keep the traditions of Thunder Beach Bike Rally while showing their support for those whose lives have been forever altered by the recent storm. This was a very special Thunder Beach Bike Rally, not only because donations from vendors and tickets sales went to help storm victims and restoration efforts, but as the bikes rumbled into to Casino Beach under the widely recognized beach ball water tower, I was reminded that the fortitude of bikers was stronger than any storm.

by Jeani G.

OB’s Restaurant and Lounge in DeLand hosted Russ & Bob’s 17th annual Panhead/Shovelhead/Antique Party on November 18th … and to say this year’s event was a success, would be an understatement! Hundreds of old-school motorcycle enthusiasts rode in under beautiful sunny skies to enjoy a day full of food, fun, awesome bikes and great music!

With so many beautiful vintage Harleys, our esteemed panel of judges: Marshall, Marvin, Walter, Cap, and featuring Willie from Tropical Tattoo, definitely had their work cut out for them in selecting the winners from a total of 61 entries:

• Stock Panhead – Mark Hampton – 1958 FLH
• Custom Panhead – Robert Green – 1949
• Stock Shovelhead – Billy Oremovich – 1984 FLHX
• Custom Shovelhead – James Roth – 1974
• Antique – John Bartman – 1923 Model J (Cannonball Run participant)
• Best in Show – Gary Margoni – 1948 Flathead
• People’s Choice – presented by Lulu and TJ of Thunder Roads Florida to Lisa Musolino for her 1979 custom Shovelhead

Live music by Beautiful Bastards and Hot Streak kept the crowd rocking all day long. Pinup Parlor Boutique hosted a pinup girl contest, and 95.7 HOG radio did a live feed sponsored by Rue & Ziffra. You could play Giant Jenga with Bill Grotto of Twisted Tea, test your throwing arm at the “Dunk the Hottie” tank, take part in a 50/50 raffle or enjoy a delicious Pulled Pork Sundae served by Rob, TK, Al and George with proceeds going to Toys 4 Tots.

Dave served up platters of smoked chicken and ribs, while Mama T’s Sweet Treats offered goodies like funnel cake, deep fried oreos and hot boiled peanuts. Other vendors included Sherzer Insurance, jewelry and T-shirts tents, and Yuengling girls passing out fun promo items. Mark Hall Riding & Flying filmed the day’s activities – his video can be found on YouTube. Hundreds of amazing photos were taken by Lulu, TJ, Sherry and Ava and can be viewed and shared on Facebook under OBsBarDeLand and ThunderRoadsFlorida.

Kristie and Ken did an awesome job organizing the event, and OB’s staff (Kristie, Linda, Dani, Keelie, Bobbi Jo and Eric, as well as Jason, Ellen, Stephen and Tony) did an amazing job serving the vast crowd. Our parking volunteers CJ, Steve and Zack kept traffic moving, while Nancy and Jan jumped in to help Jeani at the registration desk and hand out the People’s Choice voting stones. A special “Thank you” goes out to all of our sponsors, vendors, staff and volunteers who made the day a huge success!

No doubt, there’s always a good time to be had at OB’s in DeLand. OB (Ron), Tina and Kristie serve up heaping helpings of hospitality and host various events every single week, raising money for charities and helping those in need throughout the community. Be sure to come out to OB’s for their Wednesday Bike Nites – starting at 6 pm, featuring live music and food and drink specials … great service, great people and lots of fun! Hope to see you there!

By Lulu

Troy’s Pub in Ormond Beach on Nova Road celebrated their second anniversary on New Year’s Eve with one of the best spreads of free food I have enjoyed in quite a while. Troy and his mom Dee run the bar with a homelike hospitality. Everyone in the bar seems to know each other. We were also proud to be part of a huge Christmas bicycle collection the bar was a sponsor of.

The bikes were collected and dispersed to Family Renew and other needy organizations, but one of my favorite parts of this event was that some of the bikes were given to the local police departments to give to needy families in their districts. That creates a double whammy. First, a child in need gets a nice Christmas. And second, the police get a chance to have a friendly interaction within their beats. That can go a long way to putting forth an image of the police as not being something to fear. I have known

Troy and his mom for a little over a year now and along with serving ICE COLD beer in a super friendly atmosphere they just seem to be in business to help others!!! Whether you are looking for a place to karaoke, listen to Ashley Young sing a set or two, needing a stop for your poker run or wanting to play a game of pool, hop on your bike and ride to Troy’s Pub. Let’s make their third year the best yet!!!

By Lulu

I have known Elaina owner of On the Fringe Leather for over twelve years. She is creative and a perfectionist which makes her excellent at the business she loves.

Elaina Pring is a passionate leather work, clothing designer and accomplished business person who runs her own shop, On the Fringe Leather. She has been in business for over 25 years creating one of a kind halter tops, chaps, vest and accessories. On the Fringe Leather was located at Destination Daytona Harley Davidson for 12 years and has recently moved to its new location. The shop is open for business and is located at the Ormond Centre at 1095 N US 1 Unit 4 (right next to the Beaver Bar).

The new location will allow Elaina to move forward with more work space to create a new line for wholesale. She also wanted to be in the hub of the biker action, next to the Beaver Bar and Boot Hill Saloon, as well as, across the street from the World-Famous Iron Horse.

On the Fringe is a full-service shop sewing patches, repairs, embroidery, custom made patches, and all kinds of custom leather work. Products are made right on the premises and they take pride in the fact their line is “Made in the USA”. Custom embroidered club patches are their specialty and can be created in-house from a picture with fast turn-around time.

The women’s leathers tops and bags are sought after for their one of a kind soft deerskin and edgy biker chic designs! The shop has a full line of men’s and ladies’ vests, chaps and jackets, top hats, belts, conceal carry ladies’ handbags and more.

Upon entering the showroom, you will notice two things, the unique products that Elaina has either created or purchased and the smell of high-quality leather. Drop by and visit and support your local Leather shop!

By Lulu

I happened to be at an event at Troy’s Pub where the directors of Family Renew were receiving bicycles collected for them and had a chance to hear a bit about what they do for families in crisis. Family Renew is not an emergency shelter. It is a housing program for homeless families to reside for as long as six months while making lasting solutions to end their homelessness. I was shocked to hear that over 1600 school age children in Volusia County are homeless!

The poker run sponsored by ATT started at Beaver Bar and made scheduled stops at Circus Bar II, BFFAR, Hidden Treasure in Port Orange, Main Street Station and ended for free BBQ and live music at Dirty Harry’s. Lots of auction items helped feed the kitty! This run was a bit different in that there were several wild-card stops and we hit a few making it to Chris’ Lounge, Rudy’s Bar & Grill and Troy’s Pub…then we simply ran out of time!

A special thank you to the people at ATT & Jeff Berry for making this a yearly project, and to every person who spent their day riding for this great cause.

By Lulu

Anyone who knows Kim and Irv Elmore love them. In 2018 she made a dream of hers a reality by opening a bar in Bunnell, naming it Ike’s Saloon. “I” for Irv and “K” for Kim and “E” for Elmore! Kim has been an excellent bartender at many local watering holes for years. But now their saloon is all theirs! Located in Flagler County at 801 State St in Bunnell, it is a perfect stop to cool your pipes in the summer and warm your buns in the winter. They are as motorcycle friendly as a bar can be. Irv and Kim’s first date was a poker run which ended in an eventual marriage! On that note, she welcomes all poker runs, so put Ike’s on your list for a run stop. And if you are looking to buy a new or used motorcycle, Irv is a sales associate at Bruce Rossmeyer’s Daytona Harley-Davidson, so you know he loves motorcycle riders…and would love to sell you a bike to ride to Ike’s (bet he would buy you a beer or two). Ike’s has happy hour Monday-Friday from 3-7pm, Wednesday Blind Draw Darts and follow them on Facebook for their live band schedule. What they are most proud of at Ike’s is their ice-cold beer and they love their regulars. So, hop on your bike and spend some time on a barstool at Ike’s Saloon in Bunnell.

By Lulu

Although the weather Gods didn’t smile on their event, sending rain to dampen the day, there were smiles on the faces of the riders, the HOG members and the children, as Santa and Mrs. Claus rolled into Ocala’s War Horse Harley-Davidson on a bright and shiny Harley. The huge tent was full of toys and gifts for some less fortunate children of Marion County. Lunch was served and was delicious. The band played as if the skies were sunny. Santa and Mrs. Claus even had a photo session with the fabulous police officers which I think made the children in attendance see the police in a much friendlier light. A special thank you to the Marion County Sheriff Department, Ocala Police, Marion County Fire Department, Ocala Fire & Rescue, Christian Motorcycle Association for their assistance, and Forest High School Jr. ROTC for presenting the flag. And a great big THANK YOU to the sponsors.. War Horse H-D, Crystal Automotive Group, Fran Haasch Law Group, Born to Ride Magazine and WIND-FM Classic Rock…and to every volunteer and rider who made Santa’s joy reach children that may not have had Christmas without you!!

By Horny Dave

What’s better than riding under a full moon? Doing it with Jimmy Smith on his 9th annual Full Moon Ride! It started at the Cheyenne Saloon around five and we headed to the Cow Catcher for the next card. After a drink, we made our way to Parker House as the full moon began to rise over Crescent Lake. A backwoods ride under a full moon took us to Porky’s on Lake George for food and a round. We rode along the moonlit St John’s River to Long’s Log Cabin where a live band was rocking out. We finished up back at the Cheyenne for winning hands and Jimmy’s famous Goulash Dinner. Keep your eyes open for his 10th anniversary ride next year between Halloween and Thanksgiving.

By Lulu

Janice knows how to throw a Christmas party. Ugly sweaters everywhere, some with sayings such as “Well Hung” and “Feel the Joy” made us feel the season! DJ was rocking the room…and the food was scrumptious! Janice is the proud owner of Crossroads Tavern in Bunnell, right at the crossroad of US 1 and 100. She is a full liquor bar with a room that can be rented for private parties upstairs. They have live entertainment at times, pool and darts. She is even bringing things to the area such as the Comedy Night on March 2nd featuring Skippy from Family Ties at $15 per ticket (advance) or $20 at the door. She would love to be a poker run stop and everyone who knows her loves Janice so ride in and have check her new digs out!

By Phoenix and Metric-HD

As we know all too well, riding a motorcycle is the freest feeling you can have with your clothes on, however it comes with some risks. Feeling the wind in your face, the power beneath you and freedom of the open road are hard to beat. However, riding in Florida in the winter time presents unique challenges. As 2018 ended I had the unfortunate honor to be a small part of a celebration of life for an amazing young man that lost his life way too soon. Cody “Coffetable” Balster’s favorite color was florescent lime green. Cody served his country with pride doing a couple of tours overseas. Cody loved to ride his motorcycles with his brothers. Cody loved his friends and family. Cody’s life was cut way too short while doing what he loved, riding his motorcycle.

Thanks to his friend and family Cody will not be “FORGOTTEN”. Recently they hosted a Memorial/Benefit ride to honor the life and memory of Cody. The ride hit some of the most iconic biker friendly places in Polk County, with stops at the Ya’ll Come Back Saloon, Frank E’s Lakeside, the Grove and the final stop at Just 1 More Bar in Lake Wales. Wanda and her staff put out a wonderful spread while DJ Stoney spun the tunes.

As we start the New Year and a wonderful riding season let us “NEVER FORGET” all those brothers and sisters who we have lost too soon. MAY GOD BLESS AMERICA AND ALL OUR BROTHER AND SISTER RIDERS!!!

By Lulu

Trying to avoid the sweltering temps of August the organizers of Starke Bikefest moved their yearly event to November and combined the bike and music rally with a Veterans’ tribute. The weather was great! Though the crowds were not what they had hoped for with the move of the date, those who did ride in for the event stayed to enjoy the music, shopped with the vendors and enjoyed the great car show on the streets of downtown Starke. I have to say the music was better than ever. I really enjoyed each band. The Veteran’s Day tribute was awesome with the presentation of colors, guest speakers and the display of white crosses to remind us of the cost of freedom. Then an old-fashioned Veteran’s parade including motorcycles filled the streets. TJ and I really enjoy the weekend in Starke and the hometown feel of Starke. There are plenty of nice country roads to explore and local honky-tonks. This year we were impressed with the updates at The Red Dog Saloon and Mug Shots! I would love to see this event stay in the cooler month of November and grow with the support of the local businesses. Next year the event will remain in November so plan to ride to the country and join us in Starke the second week of November for a great weekend of music and patriotism.

By Lulu

WOW that is what needs to be said about the first Oyster & Chowder event at First Turn Steakhouse and Lounge in Port Orange. The huge parking lot was spilling over on the streets! Combining the seafood festival with a tribute to our veterans was genius! The events of the day included Big Engine rocking the stage. Patriotic events including the Pledge of Allegiance, Taps, Color Guard presentation of colors by Embry Riddle, recognition of veterans from our past conflicts, tattoo contest for most patriotic and best military, and the Missing Man table caused the huge crowd to shed tears and shout USA!! The entire event benefitted Combat Vets!!

The seafood festival part of the day included a chowder cook off with sampling, oyster shucking contest, raw oyster eating contest and oyster shell painting. A special thank you to all who took their Sunday to spend it with the great folks at First Turn showing Veterans we love and honor their courage and sacrifice defending and protecting the USA! And as always First Turn thanks their sponsors who help bring these charitable events to fruition Waste Pro, N Balance Holistic Wellness Spa, Hagstrom Group, Daytona Beverage, SR Perrott and Hold Fast Tattoo.

By Lulu

A serene city park in New Port Richey is invaded by the sound of bikes, bands and beautiful girls! The backdrop of the river and large oaks provides a perfect place for a bike rally. This event has been growing with each passing year! Two days of bike shows put on by Minh from Venom Cycles had the parking lot full of unique show pieces. The bikini contest was viewed by a huge crowd and each of the entries had their own cheering section! A poker run on Saturday hosted by Fire & Iron is a well-attended and great event raising money for their charity. The park is full of vendors and the local bars and restaurants are thrilled to serve those on two wheels. One of our favorite spots is Little Corona Cigar Bar on Grand Blvd. that now is part of the Thunder Roads family. The bands are what draws huge crowds and this year’s lineup included Completely Unchained, Van Halen Tribute, Rockit Fly, Carnival of Crue, Diary of an Ozzman and last, but not least, Skid Row. A special thank you to the major sponsors Fran Haasch law group, Team Farrell and New Port Richey Harley-Davidson for bringing this event to the west coast of Florida. If you haven’t ridden to the Cotee River Bike Fest it is a great weekend and is in October each year.

By Deborah Speicher

Whether you were riding all the way to Milwaukee or just joining the riders along the way, the roads here in Florida were packed full of motorcycles during the last weekend in August. Every five years, Harley-Davidson invites everyone to ride “home” – home to Milwaukee where it all started.

There were planned rides from the four corners of the United States. One started in Ft. Lauderdale, with stops at H-D dealerships in Ft. Myers, Brandon and Gainesville before heading to Georgia. For those of us not able to do the whole trip, it was still fun to ride through Florida with the group.

Brandon was the first overnight stop. The dealership had a party with a live band, fashion show, vendors, and more. The next morning, the group was treated to a free pancake breakfast before heading to Gainesville for lunch which also included a live band, poker walk, etc.

Those that did make it all the way to Milwaukee, were treated to concerts, parties, parades and more! For those of us who missed this event, we have another five years to get ready for the next ride home!