By Lulu

Ethan and his crew at The Inn Between in Deland throw a serious chili cook off. Lots of crock pots of chili with all types of flavors to tempt those brave enough to try them. This year 3 women took 1st, 2nd and 3rd, which included a mother and daughter competing. Mom took 1st and daughter took 2nd! The Bloody Jug Band was on stage entertaining the crowd with their unique style of music which included the washboard! Follow The Inn Between on Facebook as they are featuring live music and Sunday Fundays.

Author Samantha Rose Couto

Some heroes live in comics, fighting off robbers and protecting their city from crime. Others live right under our noses. Locals with a heart of gold. I had the privilege of sitting down with one of our local heroes, Sherry Fletcher, to discuss her third annual Saddle Up for St. Jude Poker Run Fundraiser, hosted at the World

Famous Iron Horse Saloon. On April 5th of 2025, $87,285 was raised for St. Jude! Over 450 riders, including our very own Mayor Jason Leslie, participated in the poker run, with stops at Saint & Sinners Pub, Renegades on the River, and Bimini Bar. To finalize the ride, participants of the event ended at the World-Famous Iron Horse Saloon, where a sense of community and connection proves to be society’s biggest strength.

Well-known and raved about by its locals, it’s the only bar where you can drive your bike right inside! Its friendly and lively atmosphere being the perfect home for such an impactful event. The fundraising started six months prior, with guitars signed by the headliner bands and auctioned off during Biktoberfest and Bike Week at both the Iron Horse Saloon and the Broken Spoke. When asked how she did it all, Sherry replied, “I didn’t. It takes an army to put something like this together – to make it successful. I’m just trying to make it something fun, while being able to give back.” And she wasn’t kidding about the fun! Those who attended got to enjoy more than just the Poker Run. They had the chance to participate in live and silent auctions of items and baskets generously donated by local restaurants. retailers, and businesses; A fun dice game, 50/50 raffle and cornhole tournament rounded out the funds raised to benefit the children of St. Jude. Guests browsed the motorcycles while local band, Are Friends Electric, took over the stage, covering classic rock hits and 80s favorites. If the festivities and music wasn’t enough, Feed The Obsession Outdoors served up some delicious BBQ pulled pork and beef brisket good enough to make Willie T. Jones drool! The music, the weather, and the people brought an energy that was truly unmatched. I was grateful to have had my camera in hand this day, the lens capturing each special moment throughout the fundraiser. The lens and I met a diverse group of characters, but all with the same goal: How to give to those who need it most.

“The reason that we decided to do this is because we like to give back to the community, and others,” Fletcher states. “We really get a lot of pleasure in watching our community come together. I have some friends that are going through cancer and have passed away because of cancer, as adults. I see what they’ve gone through, and I couldn’t imagine what these children are going through – the parents having to struggle and work just to keep food on the table. If we can help in any way, just to take the burden – so that parents can just focus on their children, that’s what it’s all about for us.” And because Fletcher is a major advocate for community commitment, the fundraiser is never done alone. She speaks highly of her group of volunteers and sponsors, those who “really make it happen.” With the help of those amazing volunteers, Saddle Up for St. Jude has grown immensely over the past three years. Since the first fundraiser, over $200,000 has been raised for St. Jude. “Before we would have to go around and ask people if they would like to be a sponsor, if they’d like to be involved in any way,” Fletcher says. “Now there are people just coming up to us and saying ‘How can I help the community? How can I get involved? What do you need from me? I’m just amazed at how a group of people can come together. It’s definitely a group effort.” But what the community has done for St. Jude so far has gone way beyond an “effort.” Every year more and more people become involved, and more money is raised for the children, and the families who need it to support them. The money raised will not only act as navigation through medical complexities and treatment plans, but will also be the hand that takes a weight off their shoulders. The emotional journey is enough to go through; financial
instability would only make it harder.

A MOMENT TO NEVER FORGET
Sometimes in life, it can be difficult to find help. Other times, we can be given more than we are
looking for. “The first poker run that we ever did – we didn’t know how big it was gonna be,” Fletcher says.“We went to Renegades and asked them, ‘Hey, if you would like to give a basket and $50 towards a charity, we would really appreciate it.’ And she hands me a check for $2,000.” Humanity is complex, but underneath all of the layers of complexity, there is compassion, and selflessness. Surprises like these stay with us as we move on to the next phases of our lives. It’s what keeps people like the heroes of Saddle Up for St. Jude motivated to bring our community together. When our community works as one, we can help those who have been impacted directly. Sherry had brought up a man whose daughter lost the battle and wanted to give back in any way he could. “One of my friends had given me a tote full of Legos and she goes ‘I know they’re used, but can you use these for the silent auction.’ And we did. The guy that won it walked up to Beth of ThunderRoads and says, ‘I’m buying these for my grandchild who lost her mother to cancer.’ He wanted to give back to those going through the same thing.” But upon talking to Sherry further, I learned that it’s more than “giving back.” The term “giving back” implies that something had to have been taken first. But our community does more than give back. We stand alongside one another, and we do it without wanting anything in return, or for mutual understanding. We don’t just “give back.” We create change. We invest, and sacrifice. We contribute. We empower. We support.

IN YOUR COMMUNITY, ON YOUR SIDE
I asked Sherry what role sponsors have in the Saddle Up process, and she opened up about her team’s loyalty to Rue & Ziffra. “They were the first ones that came to mind! I have worked with Rue & Ziffra in the past and as soon as I decided that I wanted to do this, my first phone call was to David Sweat (Attorney) to see if he wanted to be a part of it. I knew that they would be a big sponsor for us.” We’re stronger in numbers because no battle is won alone. That’s why community is everything. “I love how they’re not just a law firm, but how much they give back to the community. They want to make our community a better place.“

TAKING THE REINS
“Sherry,” I said. “What’s next?” and to that she responds, “We’re going corporate.” The Saddle Up team has been discussing future plans of growing their organization, as they have already started reaching out to corporates to get more eyes on the cause. “We feel really confident that we’ve brought it to a really good level and that we all know what we need to do as far as the different outlets of what we’re doing to put this together.” And the confidence is undeniable! With a growing team and rising donations, it’s no surprise that the fundraiser is saddling up and riding tall! When asked when the planning for 2026 begins, Sherry eagerly says, “We’ve already started for next year.”

By Lulu

Jim Lynch, owner of the new Godfather Custom Cycles & Good Fellas Beer & Wine bar, has a love of motorcycles and bike events! He also is the producer of Bike Show Mafia bike events throughout the USA. To kick off his new bar and bike shop he had a 3-day event including a block party with a ride-in car and bike show. It also featured the crew from Count’s Custom: Horny Mike, Ghetto Bob and Ryan Evans. Food trucks, vendors and live music rounded out the event. On a regular basis they have a jeep night on Fridays and a bike night on Saturdays. Ride down to Edgewater and find them at 187 S. Ridgewood (U.S. 1).

By Lulu

Jan and the folks at Gator H-D know how to throw a party! Twice a year they have pulled off a 3-day event that includes vendors, tattoos, bike and sound shows and GREAT music! This year was epic! Hitting pre-Covid attendance and BIKE SALES!! We love this dealership for many reasons, but their commitment to community and charity exceeds expectations.

By Lulu

It’s back! Some rallies have continued to suffer post Covid, but Leesburg 2025 was back to full throttle! Bands were awesome and one of our favorites stepped in to fill the Sunday slot when the Marshall Tucker Band had to cancel due to the sickness and eventual death of a member of the band. Other headliners including Dirty Honey and Lit all filled the large park with music lovers! Hundreds of vendors filled the streets, and Full Throttle put on a great bike show. Bike games also entertained the masses. One of my favorite parts of the Leesburg Rally is riding the roads, whether out to Eaton’s Beach for dinner, Big Bass Grill for lunch at Lake Panasoffkee or bouncing down for drinks at the Chill Pub, a cigar at Legacy Cigar in Mount Dora or Tavares, or Hurricane’s for a nightcap it gives us a chance to visit with friends who love to ride. When it’s time to escape the heat, we head downtown to The Warehouse, Frank’s Place or Great Chicago Fire Brewery! Thank you, Leesburg, for putting on a great weekend rally for all who enjoy your efforts! Also thank you to the sponsors, City of Leesburg, Budweiser, and Progressive!

Seems like heaven has gained two more angels. Dave submitted Gene’s photo and wrote this sweet sentiment about his friend.

Gene Pontbriant, seventy-five years old of Daytona Beach, passed away peacefully in his home after a short illness. An avid Gene was a friend to all, always lending a helping hand and a smile. Rest in peace Gentleman Gene.

We also lost a long-time friend of many at The Boat Bar, Mike Cook. This was submitted by Tony, owner of The Boat Bar.

Michael Gene Cook, 11-4-1955 passed 6-1-2025 from cancer. He was born in West Virginia, raised in New Jersey, and moved to New Smyrna Beach, Fl. in 1986 where he married and started his family.  He is preceded in death by his parents, Gene, and Irene (Roach) Cook. He truly loved living in Florida, enjoying riding his Harley and making many dear friends.  He loved his family and always had a special bond with his lovely Mom and sister Donna.  He is survived by his son Cody Cook and Autumn Plebanek daughter in law, grandson Ryker Cook, sister Donna Roach and extended family in Michigan.  A memorial celebrating his life will be held, 7-12-2025 at the Boat Bar.

Tell your friends and family you love them, ride a new roadway and don’t forget your sunscreen.

By Lulu

Each Bike Week we take a ride to outlying spots in the country for a beautiful day with old and new friends. This year we met AS ALWAYS at The Hideout Lounge at Derbyshire and LPGA to saddle up and ride. Our first stop was for lunch at 3 Bananas on the lake in Crescent City! Pat and Anna are always great hosts and serve amazing food! We then cruised over to The Hideaway Bar & Grill in Pomona Park for photo ops provided by creative Lisa. She always has balloons for the occasions, saddles, sex swings and fun stuff to entertain us. After a few cold ones, we rode out to Renegade’s on the River in Georgetown for the beautiful view of St. John’s River. Our next stop was Gnarly Gar in Satsuma which is everyone’s favorite dive bar on the river! Next was a short putt to the new Oasis in San Mateo to visit our friends and new owners Mike (Larry) and Tia. They have really improved this property since taking over recently, so if you get the chance, ride out and say hi! The final stop was for the weekly Wednesday Shovelhead night at The Other Place in Holly Hill for their great smashburgers! Join us for our Biketoberfest ride! It is Wednesday of Biketoberfest week! See you there, KSU @11.

By Lulu

The Harley dealerships at Gainesville and Tallahassee are throwing events that benefit local charities. In May, each location had their Hog Roast. Gainesville raised funds for the Rotary club. As a past president of the Rotary Club in Pace, Florida I hated that we missed this event, but they were kind enough to send some photos of the day’s festivities. Branford Hwy played for the large crowd. Luke Scanlan was onsite pinstriping and Tonya was doing face painting and airbrush tattoos. Sno-Mies snow cone truck was there, and a frozen t-shirt game, raffles and giveaways made for a great afternoon. Sweet Meat Butcher Shop smoked the HOG, and it was a sight to see. I am certain by the photo it was “sweet” eating.

Tallahassee Harley chose the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association to benefit from their HOG roast. To quote them “It was one for the books. We had an amazing day filled with great food, awesome bikes, and even better company-all in support of the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association. With your help, we were able to raise funds for a truly meaningful cause and have a blast doing it. Your support means a lot to us and the community we serve. We’ve shared some of our favorite moments in a photo album on our Facebook page-be sure to check it out and tag yourself and your friends.

Check out more upcoming Customer Appreciation Events on August 23rd from 11am-3pm at both dealerships!!

By Lulu

During Leesburg Bike Fest Dirty South Saloon puts on one heck of a show! Whether it is pudding wrestling, mechanical bull riding, great bands, a bikini contest or a unique take on a wet-T contest, there is a lot of “dirty” FUN going on! For the wet T contest lucky peeps in the crowd were given high power squirt guns to wet the lasses! And if that wasn’t enough fun for a 3-day party, on Thursday they had a wing eating contest with delicious looking wings provided by Cousin Vinnie’s Wings in Leesburg. Also known for great live music and first Wednesday of the month bike nights, it is definitely a fun spot to party right across from Gator H-D!

By Lulu

For years we have heard about the “late night party” at Windy Acres Campground! This year TJ stopped in to catch a bit of the nightlife. Body painting, hula hoop contest and girls dancing on a stripper pole made for an old school biker party. Gypsy Sparrow was the band entertaining the crowd of campers and party attendees. Full liquor is available, and this is an “adult only” weekend. Pasture camping and most bring golf carts to navigate the huge property. Just driving by in the past, I have witnessed the giant slip and slide, where rumor has it, some lose articles of clothing at times! This campground is located at 1350 Miller Road in Fruitland Park and their number is 352-643-1638. Seems like they book early and have a huge demand for their VERY reasonable camping rates!

By Lulu

Bike Week 2025 is history and the Boot Hill Saloon on Main Street put on another great rally party. With a huge stage outside for bands, a Twisted Tea Bikini contest and live music inside, there was plenty to entertain. No matter the weather, the party is at The Boot! Boot Hill Outpost on US 1 in Ormond Beach was also entertaining the masses with Rhonda slinging drinks, live music, and vendors. Throughout the year Boot Hill on Main Street has Wednesday bike nights with live music, and don’t forget to get your room for the fireworks on July 4th, for a great night of music! See more photos of the Twisted Tea Bikini Contest on Thunder Roads Florida Facebook!

By Lulu

Charlie and Amie at Sorry Charlie’s in Samsula are always looking for a way to entertain the masses, this year they didn’t disappoint. Mechanical bull riding that turned topless, a beautiful aerial acrobat, an amazing fire show, and of course great live music did not disappoint. If you are lucky to catch Charlie burning up the rubber on the General Lee out front that in itself is fun to see! They have bike night on Thursdays with live music and check out their ad in Thunder Roads Florida for other happenings in the month!

By Lulu

If you ride to Daytona for Bike Week whether from far or near you are going to make your way to Teddy Morse’s Daytona Harley-Davidson’s complex and Saints’ & Sinners’ Pub. It doesn’t matter if your soul is a little naughty or angelic, you will have a fun time here. Throughout the 10-day rally the staff worked hard to keep beverages, great food and music flowing. Throngs of motorcyclists visited, some more than once! Saints’ & Sinners’ features live music Wednesday through Sunday, with two bands on Saturday. See their ad in this issue for the June schedule!

I am so excited to be buying my first house! I owned three houses in the past with my ex-husband, but never picked out a house, financed a house and moved into a house all by myself! Don’t get too excited, TJ and I are still seeing each other! Since housing prices have finally come down a bit, I felt it was time to buy. The mortgage rates aren’t great, but my CDs are making enough to use their money instead of mine and the lender allows for one free refinance should the rates drop in the fall. So, I made an offer. Pat, the 85-year-old widow from Ohio, accepted it to get rid of the winter home she and her husband bought to become snowbirds 20 years ago. I actually love golf, so I bought in our country club. The house has a small pond in the back complete with a real deer who came out for a drink from the pond in the middle of the day. The house had to have a new roof to get insured by my friend Lisa at H&H Insurance, she pulled some strings to get it insured until the roof could be put on and Pat decreased the price $25,000 because of the roof cost. With that and a new hot water heater my place is good for another 20 years! The best part is it is completely furnished. Everything she has in the place stays…rakes, tools, fishing poles, art, linens, dishes! I am the luckiest girl in the city of Daytona Beach right now. Closing isn’t until June 5th, so I am impatiently counting down the days. This Pony Tales obviously has nothing to do with motorcycling, but the house is all I can think about right now and I decided to share my excitement with you. Be safe on the highways, buy a stranger a drink and don’t forget your sunscreen!