By Raven Van Pelt

The 1st annual B.A.C.A. fund raiser was held on April 26th, along with Mind Ride Cycle’s custom bike giveaway by 106.9 Planet Radio. There were multiple stops throughout the city that started at The Southern Grill located on Flagler Ave. in San Marco. The final stop was at Wild Wings Cafe in Tinsel Town on South Side Blvd., where everyone enjoyed live music, food; raffles and the bike give away.

B.A.C.A. exists with the intent to create a safer environment for abused children. They exist as a body of bikers to empower children not to feel afraid of the world in which they live.

It has been in existence since 1995, with Chapters across the U.S. and in 9 countries and growing. They are a non-profit organization of dedicated, background screened, volunteers who ride with the purpose of supporting our wounded warriors by their physical presence and will sit with a child for as long as it takes for that child to feel safe. An organization of men and women who will step up 24/7, whatever it takes, in order to protect and secure a sexually, physically or emotionally abused child’s basic right to be a kid.

BACA is there to give an ear, or to ride, to play, or just sit and talk to a child. BACA is there to help with therapy, depositions, and all court appearances. It is hard and we believe no child should have to go through that alone.

In Florida, we have 4 Chapters centered in Jacksonville, Orlando, Lakeland and Pensacola, with 2 temporary Chapters in Daytona and Tarpon Springs.  We are growing in South Florida as well.

How can you support your local BACA?  If you ride, why not ride with a purpose?  Contact your local Chapter and attend a monthly public meeting. Should you know a child or a family that you think BACA could help, tell them about us we are easy to find! Your tax deductible charitable donations are always welcome and help with a vest, road name, teddy bear and backpack for a kid.

B.A.C.A. ® OF FLORIDA CHAPTERS

Hurricane Alley Chapter     Helpline (850) 217.2366     Pensacola

Seven Bridges Chapter      Helpline (877) 848.3869     Jacksonville, Daytona

Tri – County Chapter           Helpline (407) 227.2134     Orlando

Thousand Lakes Chapter Helpline (863) 588.6560     Lakeland, Tarpon Springs

Remember to visit our International Website: WWW.BACAWORLD.ORG

By Amy Poole

Bad Boys Saloon’s first Bike Week seemed to go well considering this was the new spot on the block. Lou, owner of Bad Boy’s, has many friends and associates standing by him to help him succeed in the industry. Through Bike Week 14 bands performed and special appearances like Josh, Bill and Cutie Pie were made. Purchase your Bad Boy’s mug for free draft beer specials and even now you able to receive that on a daily basis or you could get your Shine on in the Ole Smokey Moonshine traveling bar! Make certain you check out Bad Boys ad in Thunder Roads to join in on the action…for instance Ladies Night on Wednesdays and Bike Night on Fridays for prizes! Don’t eat before you come though…you will want to order something off the menu…the food is delicious!! Tell Lou hello and that you saw his ad in Thunder Roads Florida!!

By Lulu

Lots of us party during Bike Week, but Destination Daytona had something to really celebrate…20 years of business. They threw an awesome party catered with delicious food by Moore’s Fine Food. But they also celebrated all week long with exciting events all week long. The Budweiser Clydesdales were on site, lots of vendors and the biggest bikini contest in town and my girlfriend, Nicole took first place! They drew a great crowd with their free concert by Vixen and Great White. They have Bike Night on Thursdays so ride in to Destination Daytona this spring for a great time.

By Billy “Kneecap” Braddock

“Bottoms up” is an expression which literally means to tilt the bottom of one’s glass upward until it is empty. There is also the expression, “Is the glass half-full or half-empty”? To me it doesn’t matter if it’s half-full or half-empty, there is still room for more whiskey. In our country we have politicians that are full of S#!+, and voters who are empty of personal responsibility.

It’s time for our country to go bottoms up. By this I mean we have been ruled (and I mean ruled not governed) from the top down. The Democrats think of themselves as the party of the cultural elite. The Republicans are looked upon as the party of the business elite. Both have become like the aristocratic parties of the 18th century. The Democrats supporting base is from the urban working class, but get their marching orders from those professionals who make their money off the working class. They throw money at programs that are supposed to help the working class but most of it stays in the pockets of the professionals. The Republicans base consists of moralists, small business, and property owners but they still are dominated by big business.

We need to start from the bottom (local politicians) and work our way up (federal politicians) like our founding fathers intended for our government. They wanted their politicians to represent the community and their neighbors. When they had accomplished what they had promised in their election bid, they would go back to their private lives. We now have professional politicians who feed at the public trough. They promise almost everything and anything to get reelected. Does term limits come to mind?

I realized how important it is to pay attention to our local elections after talking to a good friend of mine, Eddie Colosimo, who is running for mayor of the small town of Holly Hill, Fl. He is the type of politician that we need more of. He has devoted his life to his country and his community. In the past he has taken on issues with local government on behalf of the citizens and actually won.

Small-town politicians, Mayors, Commissioners, and School Board Members are very important to a community and its citizens. The reason we have what we have in government, is because our voters are uninformed and uneducated. 32 million adults in the U.S. can’t read. That’s 14% of the population. 21% of adults in the United States read below a fifth grade level and 19% of high school graduates can’t read. 85% of all juveniles who interface with the juvenile court system are functionally illiterate and over 70% of the inmates in America’s prisons cannot read above a fourth-grade level. It’s time to take our country back and start educating its citizens before we destroy the greatest country in the world.

Jesus loves you is great to hear in church but not in a Mexican prison.

Read more of my blogs on my website nobodiesopinion.com

See you on the shiny side of tomorrow…

By Amy Poole

You can take a beautiful scenic ride through the mature trees any day of the week and finish “Your Destination at the End of the Loop” at…The White Eagle Lounge. You will hear the roar of motorcycles during the events and on just plain ol’ Fun Day Sundays itching to get to The Eagle for either their Biker Bash at the end of every month or just cuz it’s the location most of us regularly start at in the a.m. for $1 Bloody Marys, as well as, ending the day there too!

The Eagle has plenty going on during Bike Week such as live music daily, crapper drags, Firecracker the Bull, food and vendors. The best happening and enjoyment was Johnny, The Torch Performer that demonstrated all kinds of fire tricks and TORCHED the clear sky with flames! And, of course, Miss Jasmine Cain taking flight into the crowd. Don’t forget to hit Mondays for Happy Hour 4-close and Friday for steak night!!

By Amy Poole

Another great event this year at Willie’s Tropical Tattoo Old School Bike Show! The unique photos that are taken of the ol’ school choppers and pretty ladies that play the part make this one of our favorites! Choppers, craving for attention, lined up waiting for their turn to be called for an award and many were hungry for some ink which turned the tattoo parlor awful busy! Live music filled Tropical all afternoon with people mingling about and our buddy Don Wood, from Moonshiners, made an appearance for some recreation time. This event is a must not miss, thus look for it in Thunder Roads Calendar Biketoberfest!!

Then it was time to drink some beer for the furry friends which are where all the proceeds went that day…to the Arni Foundation, a non- profit organization, located in Daytona Beach. Nikki Lynn, owner and founder of Arni, and her friends come together day after day to rescue these animals from abuse and cruelty. On Tropical Tattoo’s Chopper Bike Show day Nikki and her friends lend a hand by giving their time and taking charge by shopping and stocking all the beer and drinks, bartending, getting the snacks, etc. Even Bob showed up walking tall and steady to help! Every year Nikki arranges for the new tees or tanks to be purchased with a new motto this year it said: Be Kind To Animals Or I’ll Kill You. I loved it…you know I had to have a shirt!! All proceeds go to the furry critters that day from the items that you guys all purchased at the bike show. The monies raised was around $6,000.00 ALL of that going to Arni!!

Many thanks to ALL who came out that day…Willie and his crew, Dave Perewitz, Spectro Oil, Twisted Tea, J&P Cycles, patrons and every one of you that volunteered for making this day a huge success!!!

By Amy Poole

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The Riverfront Park Ultimate Bagger Show was an impressive bike show to attend, consisting of about 30 baggers and it was only the 1st Saturday of Bike Week 2014. The event was unlike most of the bike shows we attend, this being that these baggers were contemporary, nearly all containing air ride not kickstands and well…baggers! The large event is on the river with live music, vendors with food and merchandise and just a pleasant atmosphere. Mark your calendars for Biketoberfest…it’s a do not miss event!!

By Amy Poole

Adam Winterstien is 33 years old and was born and raised in Iowa, grown strong and smart. He was brought up on a 700 acre cattle and grain farm which his parents still own and reside on. At 5 he was racing 4 wheelers on the trails of his land and participating in the county fair races. Growing taller and tough he added dirt bike racing to his outdoor adventures along with some barrel racing.

During his adolescent years he did his share of partying like most young’uns, but he then put his mind to work by attending college in Warrensburg, Missouri and received 2 bachelor degrees in sociology and criminal justice. In 2007 Adam moved to Florida and took up surfing and chose to get into shape by going to the gym a great deal. His motto: “A Healthy Body Makes a Healthy Mind”. He became a social worker in the Volusia County School District as a behavioral specialist on behalf of children. His values are high for these children to help make a difference in their lives but unfortunately funding in that area is limited so Adam decided to change his route when One Horse Saloon was presented to him. Why? Because alcohol sells and chicks make it sell quicker!! Even with the economy through hard times people still have money to go to the bars.

Adam bought One Horse Saloon in Holly Hill in May 2012 but not before owning his first 1987 black Sportster 1100. After that Adam picked up a 1984 red Shovelhead. One Horse is a welcoming and quaint large bar. As I have mentioned before, the bartenders are friendly and always acknowledge you as you enter…which is a plus! In the rear of the building Adam added a sewing business with numerous patches for your apparel but they also reupholster seats and alterations can be done. One day Adam would like to own a gym…maybe.

Adam is a true rider, ALWAYS READY TO RIDE, GOING TO RIDE OR ALREADY RIDING!! He keeps adding to his assortment of motorcycles with the newest two being a 1984 red Shovelhead Wide glide and a 1974 Shovelhead Electra Glide. Next on his list is a Panhead. In addition to his 2 wheels he also has a 4 wheel 1960 flat black Ford truck rat that can smoke tires like a chimney! So while you are out and about stop in The One Horse Saloon, in Holly Hill…say Hey to Adam…or maybe you catch a ride with him!

By Amy Poole

Featured on our cover in the March issue for Bike Week 2014 was The World Famous Iron Horse Saloon! There is not much you won’t set your eyes on while being present at The Horse day or night! Where else can you ride through the horseshoe or park…water your pipes while getting inked…burn your own rubber in a pit…notice some sweet eye candy…catch a glimpse or photo of legendary individuals…fuel your buds and appetite with tasty foods…shop until you drop for Iron Horse goods…even a bride and groom were there wedding dress and all…and you guys got ROCKED by the entertainment until the sun came up (well…almost)!! This year their headliners were Fran Cosmo of Boston, Mustang Sally and Brian Howe of Bad Company. Bike Week apparel is still available at The Horse in The General Store. The kitchen is always open for a bite so ride in for some more fun and join in on the Iron Horse activities all year long!

By Lulu

Well for the past seven years I have featured a page each month known as Skin Art. I have been intrigued by what people will ink on their skin, but never been inclined to put anything on my body. Bull, that originally brought me into the world of biking, wanted me to have a Lonnie Anderson type tat of barbed wire and Bull’s Bitch laced into the design. Obviously my answer was always NO WAY! I hate when I have a bruise. Why would I ever consider ink?! But Bike Week 2014 brought many changes in my life and one happened to be the need to get ink! So I made a visit to one of my dearest friends in the world I have grown to love, Willie at Tropical Tattoo and he hooked me up with Ron, one of his artists. For the record I am not a sissy. I endured two childbirths without any anesthesia, one of which required 24 hours of labor. Don’t let anyone tell you a tattoo doesn’t hurt.

I must admit I love the cross that Ron chiseled into the nape of my neck, hidden by my hair only those who know me well will ever know I finally gave away my ink “virginity”. I had to have my girlfriend Christy rub my thighs and show me slightly x-rated photos she had recently taken of herself to try to keep me from stopping half way through. Sherry, my BFF, who has the same tat and whose necklace we used as our art work was busy filming and laughing at me. But halfway through she whispered a message from a friend that made me realize I wasn’t going to give up. Sometimes real pain makes mental pain seem less painful. Maybe that is why some get addicted to ink…

Feel life’s pain to its fullest so you can appreciate when your life is pain free, say a prayer for someone making changes in their lives and don’t forget your sunscreen.

By Amy Poole

During the 2014 Bike Week Dirty Harry’s had the motorcycle enthusiasts setting off in all directions! You may wonder from sister bar to sister bar; Cowboy’s role kept all faces entertained by his humor and his chicks in his wet tee contests; aromas of food that you could choose from large menus, like fried string beans were enticing and rockin’ bands jammed day and night!!

In the midst of all the activity, The Flaunt Girls made their appearances by signing autographs and pouring shots of cold Jager through your pipes followed by a DIRTY spankin’!! Whoa! It was going on at Dirty Harry’s and the sun hadn’t even gone down yet!!

The excitement in no way quits when the rally is over…cruise in and ask about their monthly drink specials or free BBQ with live music on the 1st Sunday of every month!!

By “Kneecap”

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Established back in 1926, the Cabbage Patch Bar still exceeds all expectations of an enjoyable Bike Week. It may be infamous for its coleslaw wrestling but the entertainment goes on daily. There are hot buns and wet T-shirt contests. Bike shows that also include baggers. Nonstop entertainment from four big stages and daily drink specials from some of the hottest bartenders at their full-service bars. It was impressive to see the enormous turnout daily. Even the weather cooperated. However, the most impressive thing I saw was two wheelchair-bound bikers who had custom-built trikes. Goes to prove, once a biker always a biker. Hope to see you there in their bar that is open year-round and sponsors a lot of charity events. Great place to spend a lot of time. Don’t wait till Biketoberfest to visit this overly friendly bar. It is open daily seven days a week.

By Amy Poole

Freedom Cycles is a NEW and current spot on US1 in Holly Hill. During Bike Week inventory of motorcycles was exhibited and shined up, ready for one of you to take it on the open rode!

Freedom and fans GOT LICKED by Ron and Amy Shirley from Lizard Lick Towing! Ron and Amy and their crew in “tow” were signing autographs and displayed many items of merchandise. I watch this show all the time and was lucky enough to have MY photo taken with Ronnie!! You are missing out if you have not seen it…look it up and give it a shot!!

The Female Humane Link, Juli Moody, performed 3 shows putting her power to the test.
She actually makes herself a link between 2 motorcycles while they do a burn out and she has to hold them there…and no brakes were being used on the cycles!!! This was a great performance and Juli really has a kind manner!!

The action was nonstop and powerful at Freedom Cycles!!!!

By Lulu

If anyone rides a motorcycle through St. Augustine, Florida they know to make a pit stop at Bar None. Known for being ultra biker friendly, they throw the best parties with great music and fabulous food. With their huge recently added outside deck there is always room for one more!!! If you haven’t ever been, you need to get on your scoot and check them out!

By Amy Poole

A rockin’ bar to be at during Bike Week Rally 2014 was the One Horse Saloon. This year was definitely One Horse’s turn to have the crowd and business!! Bike after bike pulled in to be sparkled and shined by the best bike wash chicks we have seen in awhile. Along with friendly bartenders that always greet you as soon as you’re in the door. By night, Torch the Fire Performer demonstrated his flame thrower and LIT up the outside. Take a close look at the pic here…the flame here clearly looks like a horse head doesn’t it? Awesome!! Make it a point to stop in for a cold beer and check out the tons of patches on the back wall and get it sewn on your leather or jeans!!