By Lulu

This month’s Bull’s Eye is Derek Tipton. Born in Elkhart, Indiana and raised outside of Detroit, he landed in Ft. Lauderdale in 1988. Like most men who end up loving motorcycles he started early, his first bike was a Honda CVR 500 at 15. Then he had a Kawasaki 454 LTD at 16. While living in south Florida, Derek would spend the weekends riding with friends and during one of these excursions he lost a dear friend from a motorcycle accident. He took 17 years off and vowed to never ride again. His livelihood has been from auto restoration and consignment vehicles. His specialty is ground up restorations. He loves muscle cars, Detroit, motor heads and the Classics. Hence the name Detroit City Customs which is based in Ocala. The sister company is City Collision in Gainesville and Ocala. Under the same roof in Ocala is Auto Doctors who take care of all mechanical upgrades during restoration. Their facility takes up a city block and the cool cars and trucks on property were just amazing. I think there was nearly 100 vehicles in various stages of being rebirthed! He loves doing specialty custom work and that has evolved into his love of motorcycles. Derek developed a friendship with a biker named Chooch who was living in Ocala. When Chooch was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2008 he decided to get back on two wheels and rode twice with Chooch before he passed, and Chooch was right, once he was back on the pavement…it was back in his blood. In memory of Chooch he created the “Mobsta” whose theme evolved from his love of mobster movies. The bike is a rolling chassis with an 80 inch EVO punched out over 10. The custom look include swoop fenders giving it the 30’s-40’s Mob look. The transmission is a 6 speed knock off of a Baker and the pipes are “skirt lifters”. A definite “Good Fellas” theme throughout, including a sweet paint job. This bike has taken “Best in Show” and the reason is obvious. Derek’s Detroit City Customs is a thriving business in central Florida and if you need your hot rod, truck or bike restored or customized check him out. He and wife Antoinette are friendly and love to share their staff’s talent on the next project through the doors. Read the rest of this entry »

By Lulu

Well, just when I think I have seen it all at any dealership, Gator Harley-Davidson in Leesburg offers a self-defense seminar. And women and men signed up for certified instructor Cliff Robinson to teach them a thing or two about personal protection! They even had pink self-defense items…just for the feminine side of self defense! The NRA was on hand if you are inclined to want to join. The Steele’s owners of Pat’s Pawn and Gun Shop from Leesburg had quite a display of personal protection items. And the parking lot was full of vintage cars from The Villages’ Vintage Car Club. As always we had a great time with the folks at Gator H-D! Read the rest of this entry »

By Lulu

On August 10th we will be riding on a memorial run for one of my best buddies in life Sharon Pedoto. It is hard to believe but it has been one year since she died of lung cancer. She was young, adorable and one of the sweetest women to walk this earth. I miss her, as do many! But whether you knew her or not, I ask you to ride with us to remember those who have passed from cancer or to honor those who are fighting the battle now. It is a free fun ride, although we will be doing a raffle and 50/50 for the American Cancer Society. On a positive note on the same subject, another dear friend that we rode on a fund raiser for a couple of months ago just found out she is cancer free. After her brave bout of chemo and radiation, she got the great news. So much research has been done and amazing changes are happening in the field of cancer; but it has been an expensive search for cures and many brave patients have endured horrific treatments to get us to the place where cures do happen! If you haven’t been touched by cancer consider yourself blessed and remember to ride this year on some ride benefitting American Cancer Society or someone with cancer…it’s kind of like “an apple a day keeps the doctors away”…good karma! Ride on a run for someone who needs help, thank the good lord if you don’t need help and don’t forget your sunscreen! Read the rest of this entry »

By Deborah Speicher

For some people Memorial Day brings to mind a three-day weekend, barbeques, a day at the beach, and the Indy 500. What should be remembered is the reason for this holiday, which is to thank the veterans of this country and the families of those who have fallen. After the Civil War, people began to realize that those who had lost their lives in the war had not been honored properly. There are many different stories of how Memorial Day was started. One was that on May 5, 1865, liberated slaves in Charleston took the union soldiers from a mass grave and gave them proper burials. The other was to have taken place on May 5, 1866, in the town of Waterloo, NY. All of the shops closed for the day, flags flew at half-mast, and flowers and flags were placed on the graves of their local war veterans. Regardless of when and where it started, the people of this nation realized the need to honor those who paid the ultimate price. By 1868 it became a more united and national event. May 30 of each year thereafter would be “Decoration Day” and would later become known as Memorial Day; ultimately evolving into a three-day weekend at the end of every May. Every Memorial Day, Florida National Cemetery (Bushnell) holds a ceremony to honor those buried there and their families. Even in times of high gas prices and economic turmoil, the Florida motorcycle communities were out in full force to support this event. Several military riding organizations participated. With over 500 bikes, the largest group riding into the cemetery was the Defenders MC (Tampa Bay Chapter). The Defenders MC is a group comprised of active and retired military, law enforcement, emergency services and public safety professionals. The Defenders’ ride was led by Colonel Ron “Paladin” Rook, USMC (Ret.). Colonel Rook has coordinated and led this ride for the past several years. Local HOG and other riding groups were invited to join the Defenders for this ride. Thanks to a police escort and the excellent road captains from the Defenders MC, this 30+ mile ride went off without a hitch. The ceremony had many poignant speakers, patriotic music and a “missing man” flyover by Ye Mystic Air Krewe. While the actual meaning and traditions of Memorial Day may have been forgotten by some people, those attending the ceremony came out to remember, honor and salute those who had defended our country as well as to those currently keeping our country and citizens safe. As you take in the views of Florida National Cemetery, you realize that the price of the freedoms we enjoy is quite high. As they say “Freedom isn’t free”. Read the rest of this entry »

By Phoenix and Metric

The youngest member of the American Legion Riders family on the ridge scored a big hit with their first annual 4th of July poker run. The American Legion Riders Chapter 74 out of Sebring hosted one of the longest single poker runs I have been on in some time. The ride covered some of the most beautiful back roads and the best biker businesses in three counties. The ride got an early start with coffee and donuts at Dunkin Donuts in Sebring. We traveled out the back roads to Fred’s bar on Arbuckle Creek. From Fred’s we took the scenic route up to Dynasty Cycles in Avon Park. Leaving Avon Park we traveled to everyone’s favorite spot in Hardee County stopping at Charlottes Web. After Charlottes we traveled the winding roads down to the Open Roads Bar and Grill in De Soto County. Leaving Open Roads we high tailed it back into Highlands County with a quick stop at TJ’s Leathers and ended the ride with a sprint to Tikki Hut at Cowpoke’s Watering Hole. For some of the riders, especially the new guy on his little sporty, the last leg of the ride was a little rough on the tail bone, but I took my own personal butt massager along with me so when things got rough I’d have Phoenix to soften the blows. The highlight of the event was the raffle of a beautiful “Just in Case”12 gauge Mossberg shotgun thanks to our friends from Boom Boom’s Gun and Ammo. For their first event Chapter 74 did an excellent job. I can’t wait to see what they do next. Read the rest of this entry »

By Lulu

People that love to ride don’t mind an all day trip in 90+ degree weather with friends. And the phrase “it is all about the ride…not the destination” has some truth, but when a group led by the Rossmeyer sisters decided to cross the state to Quaker Steak and Lube’s Wednesday night bike night I think they wished it was early May…not June. But when the gang arrived flushed and sweaty, they headed for a quick shower just in time for the night’s festivities. Quaker Steak has, by far, one of the largest, longest running bike nights which includes live music, a parking lot full of vendors, a $12 “Biker Buffet” and a bike show with trophies. The place was packed and our Daytona group had a great time. Mandy and Shelly do a monthly ride to either dinner or lunch, and they really have a great group of people that enjoy riding. This isn’t a set day of the month so just check their website at www.brucerossmeyer.com and don’t forget their ride for Camp Boggy Creek the first week of October! Read the rest of this entry »

By Amy Poole

The 5th Annual National Memorial Ride for Miss Katelynn Stinnett was a success to help raise child abuse awareness to individuals. For the past 5 years this event is held across the U.S. on the 3rd Saturday of June and is sponsored by The Borrowed Angels Charity Riders. I know why they title themselves ANGELS...because they use their wings to protect and heal children from abuse and assist these local programs in raising funds…and they rock it!! This year there were 57 riders that took part in the 80 mile charity run, starting at The Beaver Bar, with a last minute escort by the Volusia Co. Sheriff’s Department. Numerous others joined the fun at The Beaver Bar for the in–house poker hands, auctions, 50/50 and the raffle to win that Ipad! Grandpa Beaver picked that ticket right! Roscoe Cain was a hit along with scrumptious food, for breakfast and lunch, made by Trouble. Jeremy, our eager Beaver host, made several bids during the auction, ending up with some prizes himself like the Twisted Tea cooler seat. The sole benefactor was The Champions for Children receiving a total of $1,302.00!! Please join the Angels next year on June 21, 2014 for the 6th annual ride!! There are COUNTLESS thank yous that need to be put out there from The Borrowed Angels, the volunteers, supporters that donated all the items, riders, and The Beaver Bar for hosting the event and being on your TAILS! Thank you Miss Leslie Beaver for spreading your down home hospitality among us all!! Read the rest of this entry »

By Lulu

[autoviewer id="259" width="600" height="600" ] Everyone knows that Iron Horse Saloon in Ormond Beach has it going on during Bike Week or Biketoberfest, but I am by far more impressed by the community friendly efforts that the Horse has been putting on lately. Since they have added a redhead by the name of Sherry Fletcher to their team things are constantly being hosted there. For those of you who have never organized or hosted a charity event; it takes time and money to host these and we should appreciate bars such as the Iron Horse Saloon for being willing to go the extra mile. Yes they reap the benefit of filling their bar with bikes and therefore wallets, but as in the recent event thrown for a dear friend of ours Sam Leonard it was rained out three times and the bar took a hefty loss when the weather didn’t cooperate. Eventually there was a small enough hole in the rain clouds to pull it off and I know Sam is thankful to all who showed up to give her a big biker hug!!! The same night of her event was also the 2nd of a monthly bike night being held on the first Saturday of each month complete with live music and a bike show. So look for their ads to see which bike you should enter…J&P Cycles is one of the sponsors and the prizes have been great! P.S. If you get a chance to see Melissa, Sally, Steve P, Steve F or Sherry thank them for being involved in the biker family and for the rich history they add to the Daytona Biking World. Read the rest of this entry »

By Lulu

One of my favorite runs each spring is the Red Knight’s Shand’s Burn Center Run. One of my dearest friends was severely burned several years ago in a car fire, what started out as a beautiful Sunday morning with clear blue skies turned into an unimaginable glimpse into hell for Sharon. Her husband was draining the gas out of an old style van that had the center hump which I believe housed part of the motor. It was after Hurricane Katrina in Pensacola and the van had somehow gotten water in the gas. Her husband poured alcohol into the distributor cap to dry it out, asked Sharon to sit in the driver’s seat and turn the ignition on when he told her to. He climbed under the van. Once in place he yelled now. She did and the entire inside of the van exploded into flames. He knew instantly as flames began falling on him under the van. Somehow she managed to throw herself out of the burning van. Her hair was on fire, he noticed her shirt was burning. So he ran and got a hose and began to extinguish the flames, even burning his hands and burning off his toupee trying to put her burning shirt out. What he didn’t realize in his state of panic was that her lower jeans were also on fire and as he cradled her while trying to call 911 her skin was burning off her lower legs. She was flown by helicopter to the nearest burn center in Mobile and spent months there. Her burns were substantial but with modern medicine she was able to use her legs and hands again. She lost part of her lips, nose and both ears. But her hair grew back and she went on to enjoy watching her grandchildren laugh and play. Fire is one thing that no matter how carefully you may think you live can happen to ANYONE in a blink of an eye. In a regular hospital setting you simply cannot handle the extent of treatment required for a successful outcome. To me one of the greatest things about the Red Knight’s organization is they have been in the field of firefighting…they know firsthand the devastation of burns…and they put on events such as this run to raise money to help places like Shands meet expenses. This run raised $1000 and the check was presented by the Red Knights of Palm Coast to representatives from Shands Hospital at Gainesville. A special thank you to the sponsors of this run Rue, Ziffra and Coldwell, P.A., Holland Financial and Howie from the White Eagle Lounge for their support and involvement. Read the rest of this entry »

By Lulu

Peggy and the folks at Stormy-Hill Harley-Davidson in Clermont love our vets. In May they hosted a ride to Bushnell Cemetery the National Armed Forces Freedom Ride. There was music, food and a “Freedom Isn’t Free” event pin. At the cemetery was a full honor guard ceremony complete with a gun salute. Stormy Hill thanks their loyal sponsors Care Plus Health Plans, Inc., Florida Safety Council, Park Lane Jewelry and Scantes Realty & Investment Properties, Inc. Hundreds participated to show honor and respect for our veterans who give so much to protect our freedom. I need to thank Doc and Gary and Philomena for allowing me to use their photos for this article! Read the rest of this entry »

By Billy "Kneecap" Braddock

Here we are in July, celebrating the 237th birthday of this great country of ours. 237 years ago brave men fought against inconceivable odds and defeated the most powerful Empire in the world, after which they created the greatest country the world has ever seen. They may not have been able to imagine computers, e-mails, or cell phones but they knew about freedom. They intended that 95% of all governance should come from local governments, with the remaining 5% from the federal level. When they wrote the Constitution they included safeguards, like the 1st, 2nd and 4th amendments. They designed a country that would be subject to the rule of law and not the rule of man; where life, liberty, and property would be protected. The 1st Amendment provides for freedom of speech. George Washington said, “If the freedom of speech is taken away, then dumb and silent we may be led, like sheep to slaughter”. The 2nd Amendment protects the right to bear arms. Old George had something to say about that also, “Firearms are second only to the Constitution in importance; they are the peoples' liberty's teeth”. The 4th Amendment protects its citizens from unlawful search and seizure. The Feds tell us that they mean no harm when they search our e-mails, phone calls and financial transactions. They say “trust us”. That would be like telling a blind man who is playing strip poker with four gypsy women, that he won't lose his shirt. “In God We Trust”, not government. All confidence and credibility in the federal government has been lost. We are now living in a surveillance state. When they want to know where you've been, where you are, or who you talk to, all they need to do is track your cell phone. (The next time you want to order a pizza don't call Domino's. Call the White House they get the call first.) They claim it's for our safety. Benjamin Franklin had something to say about that, “He who sacrifices freedom for security deserves neither”. It seems like each morning we are awakened to a new government scandal. Each time a new scandal arises, nobody in the government has any knowledge of the facts. I feel like I'm watching Hogan's Heroes' Capt. Schultz who is known to say “I know nothin”, “I see nothin” and “I didn't even get out of bed this morning”. “Uncle Sam” has been replaced by “Captain Clueless”. This Fourth of July take a couple minutes to reflect on what our founding fathers gave up in order for us to have freedom. Maybe even mention to your children the importance of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States. You may even mention another historical writing. It set forth the idea of a progressive income tax, mandatory government controlled education, high estate taxes, a central bank like the Federal Reserve, and government control of the means of communication by an agency like the FCC. As a matter of fact, this historical writing was called “The Communist Manifesto”. Just wanted to give you some food for thought while you are eating your hot dogs, watching the fireworks and waving the flag of freedom. Remember, had it not been for the brave men of the Revolution, we probably would be having tea and crumpets instead of hamburgers and beer. Have a safe and happy Fourth of July, but remember why we're celebrating it. It's called “Independence Day”. The other day at the bar I asked that they not smoke around me. I wasn't concerned about secondhand smoke but lighting the cigarette might ignite my breath. See you on the shiny side of tomorrow… Read the rest of this entry »

By Ron Cox

Coinciding with Armed Forces Day (May 18th) the Military Heritage Museum in Punta Gorda (FL) hosted its 5th Annual "Freedom Isn't Free" Poker Run. Receiving no funding from Federal or State government, and only a small grant from Charlotte County, Executive Director Kim Lovejoy and a staff of one organize many fundraising events to support the operation of the Museum. Riders registered at American Legion Post #103 in Punta Gorda. The 50-mile route took the riders all over Charlotte County with card stops at various VFW and American Legion Posts. While waiting for the prizes to be given out, the riders quenched their thirsts and satisfied their hunger with adult beverages from the cash bar and sumptuous tube steaks prepared by MSgt. Lovejoy (USAF, Ret.) herself. The run was the first poker run for Kristie Price who won the $100 Best Hand prize with a King high flush. Pete Rabczewski won the $50 Second Best Hand with an Ace high straight. The Museum is located in Punta Gorda's Fisherman's Village. It contains more than 30,000 items on display with double that in storage. For example, there are uniforms, weapons, decorations, original newspapers from important historical events, military documents, photographs and much, much more. If you've never visited the Museum it's well worth the trip. And admission is free!! Read the rest of this entry »

By Miserable George

On May 19, 2013, ABATE of Florida, in conjunction with the AVET Project, sponsored a motorcycle awareness run...Can-U-C-Me-Now? The run (in Brevard Co.) began at the Saint’s MC in Cocoa, where riders were served a huge breakfast, complete with sausage, biscuits and gravy, bacon, fruit, and all the trimmings. At 11am sharp, ABATE Prez, Mike Pope announced...KICK STANDS UP...and the column wound its way out to Nova Rd., down to 192, out to Narcoosi Rd., up to Boggy Creek Rd., and on over to Orange Blossom Trail, and north to Cowboy’s Bar. A nice ride, on a sunny, pleasant morning! At Cowboy’s there was food, beverages, and a few vendors set up in the huge parking area, while inside, several full service bars helped wash down the road dust! Gotta say, there was a full crew of lovely bar maids...all eager to please!!! YEAH!! There was a live band, and ABATE personnel delivered talks on motorcycle safety and awareness...can’t get enough of that these days. An impromptu KAZOO BAND played the theme songs of all branches of our Armed Forces, and Brevard Chapter Prez Mike Pope received a plaque denoting the chapters’ work in motorcycle awareness. The crowd may have been down just a little, due to some strong storms in the area, although, we got home...dry!! I wish this program would catch on nationally...it’s something we really need. Hey, ride safe, and do your part to promote motorcycle awareness, and, remember the VETS!!! God Bless ‘em all!! Read the rest of this entry »

By Lulu

This month our Bull’s Eye isn’t your typical biker, not at all. He is a soft spoken spiritual author, musician and a man with a Master’s Degree in reading education. But his story of riding into the world of motorcycles is one with humor and quite uplifting. Stan Alston is a 59 year old native of Norfolk, Virginia. A father of three boys and one girl that has been blessed with three grandchildren and a lovely wife, Sheila; you can tell he is a family man. Stan attended Almeda University in Boise, Idaho and Grand Canyon in Arizona and NYU in Long Island, New York. Most of his life he has spent in telecommunication living in the Richmond, Virginia area. He has his SEC license and currently has a radio show on Flagler County Radio, station 88.5. He has written two books “Faith, Love & Life”, “A Collection of Poems & Songs” and “Truth by Testimony”. Stan is currently writing a novel titled Bird in a Hurricane. I found him inspiring and easy to read. After a snowstorm in Virginia that dumped 15-24 inches he decided to move his “nest” to a warmer climate. Stan ended up in Palm Coast after hearing of the area from several people, never dreaming what was in store. His true passion is music. Stan has been singing in public since age seven. His first paid performance was at thirteen. He gave me a CD and his rhythm/blues/jazz style is soulful with a bit of funk. A friend, Kevon, introduced him to Cuba Gooding, Sr. who was auditioning for a new vocalist in the famous band Main Ingredient that is known for “Everybody Plays a Fool” and he landed the job. (By the way it is Cuba Gooding, Jr. the actor’s father.) Now he travels with the band and is having the time of his life! You just never know what doors God may be holding open for you. Now, as far as being a motorcycle enthusiast, this is a lesson on prayers being answered or be careful what you ask for! Sheila and Stan were watching scooters running up and down the beach and mentioned that would be fun. Stan prayed for a scooter. His wife was playing slots and won a 2004 Softail Deuce…#30 of a limited edition of only 150. Stan laughed and said, “I guess in heaven scooters and Harleys are similar”. I think the angel that granted his family that wish knew Stan deserved the best for the Christian way he lives his life, for his written words and songs that inspire and for the charitable work he does for special needs kids. After all it isn’t just the bike they won, they have each other and Stan has a wonderful opportunity to work with a legend in music at 59 years old…any one of these things would be priceless…and he gets a grand slam! Way to go, Stan, keep up the good work and put a good word in for me with whoever is listening! Read the rest of this entry »

By Raven Van Pelt

Once again, Adamec Harley Davidson on Baymeadows Jacksonville held its 9th Annual Ride for Smiles, benefiting Facing Futures. This was an escorted ride by JSO, through St. Augustine and back. With many sponsors and an estimated count of 300 riders to show their support it was a great event. There was music, a 50/50 and a silent auction, as well as, great food for all riders. This event was started by Doctor Barry Steinberg, in 1998, and he rode at the head of the ride. Dr. Steinburg started Facing Futures to help provide free medical services to children who suffer from facial abnormalities caused by either trauma or a birth defect. These children and sometimes adults need surgery to help them function better in society, and sometimes even mean the difference between life and death. The care is provided locally and all over the world. This is one ride I will hopefully continue to be part of, thank you Dr. Steinberg and your team, for all you do. And a special thanks to Adamec for their strong involvement in our community. Read the rest of this entry »