Born To Ride Florida #177, Feb 2019

Contents

February Issue 177

Ad Index

Features Thunder By The Bay-Music & Motorcycle Fest 12 17th Annual Gibtown Bikefest 20 Test Ride-2019 Sea-Doo Fish Pro 155 42

Columns

20

Everywhere Eddy-Is Everywhere Women’s World-Stilettos on Steel Spyke & Mike-Really Liked Tequila Night Train-No Rest For The Wicked

41 49 56 59

Departments Contents 2 Born To Ride Events-BornToRide.com 68

Reports

38

Finz Finds-Thunder By The Bay Ride 14 Finz Finds-Websters to Howards 18 Be Prepaired Self Protection 47 Preserve and Protect your “Digital Estate” 50 Craig Can Fix It 67 Terry “RIP” Toner-You will be Missed by All 70

On The Cover

21st Annual Thunder By The Bay Music & Motorcycle Festival, Feb 15-17 www.ThunderByTheBay.org

Start Born To Ride TV and Magazine in your city! Call 888-795-5779 The information contained herein is provided by Born To Ride Magazine or by its advertisers. BTR makes every effort to present accurate and reliable information in the issue. Born To Ride Magazine does not endorse, approve, or certify such information, nor does it guarantee the accuracy, completeness, efficacy, timeliness or correct sequencing of such information throughout this magazine. Use of such information is voluntary on your part, and reliance on it should only be undertaken after your independent review. Reference herein to any specific manufacturer, company, commercial product, process, or service by trade name, trademark, service mark, or otherwise does not constitute or imply endorsement of or recommendation of said by Born To Ride Magazine.” “Born To Ride Magazine (including its employees, contributors and agents) assumes no responsibility for consequences that may result from the use of the information herein, including the use of the information obtained at www.borntoride.com and it’s linked sites, or in any respect for the content of such information, including (but not limited to) errors or omissions, the accuracy or reasonableness of factual or scientific assumptions, studies or conclusions, ownership of copyright or other intellectual property rights, and the violation of property, privacy, or personal rights of others. BTR Magazine is not responsible for damages of any kind arising out of use, reference to, or reliance on such information. No guarantees or warranties, including (but not limited to) any express or implied warranties are made by BTR Magazine with respect to such information contained throughout the site.” No part may be copied without written permission of the publisher, Born To Ride, Inc. P.O. Box 3021, Brandon, FL 33509. 888-795-5779, Fax 813-689-2996. ­­

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AAA 6 Affordable Motorsports 61 Allstate - Jeff Ard 45 Angel City Wild West 30 Attorney Fran Haasch IFC, BC Back of The Dragon Virginia 71 Barney’s Motorcycle & Marine 44 Biff Burger 26 BTR Heat Up 38 BTR Lifestyle 61 BTR Mobile App 4 BTR Radio 36 BTR TV-This TV Tampa Bay 67 BTR TV-Great 38 68 Budweiser 38 Charlottes Webb 11 Copperhead Lodge 45 CPAP My Way 70 Cycle-Rama 50 Cycle Stop 31 Cruise For A Childhood Cure 18 Dirty Harry’s 34 Faith Life Motorcycle Rally 60 H-D Bert’s Barracuda 48 H-D Crystal 72, IBC H-D Florida 33 H-D New Port Richey 51 H-D SpaceCoast 5 H-D Treasure Coast 55 High Octane Saloon 64 Icicles Glasses 58 IPW Wrestling 39 LA’s Midway Saloon 61 Larry Buck-Financial Advisor 50 Leasure Automotive 63 Leesburg Bikefest 10 Love-Jugs 46 My Warriors Place 52 Nature Coast Biker Bash 66 Pinellas Park Bike Fest 8 Progressive Insurance 3 Precision Motor Sports 19 Quaker Steak & Lube 7 Old Town Bike Night 62 Rivers Edge Bar & Grill 36 Sam Swope Memorial Ride 32 Salty Shamrock 57 Screwie Louie’s-Scooter Haven 54 Self Protection Essentials 47 Sonny’s Real Pit Bar-B-Q 40 Swaparama 16 The Ride Factory 63 Thunder Beach 53 Thunder By The Bay 15 Tropic Trailer 46 Tropical Tattoo 33 Twilight Zone 28

BORN TO RIDE Magazine

PO BOX 3021 Brandon, FL 33509

PUBLISHER

Ron Galletti 813-785-3895 rg@borntoride.com CO PUBLISHER

Deb Galletti dgalletti@borntoride.com ART DIRECTOR

Shawn Jones art@borntoride.com EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Jesse Williams jwilliams@borntoride.com ART DEPARTMENT

Seth Wuertz, Juan Guzman, Jarred Hartman art@borntoride.com WEB DESIGN/ELECTRONIC MEDIA

Juan Guzman

DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY

Jesse Williams

OFFICE ADMINISTRATION

Nancy Ray nray@borntoride.com

MULTI-MEDIA SPECIALIST

Seth Wuertz

THE EVERYWHERE TEAM

Everywhere Eddy & Lynne Motejaitis Knight ROAD CREW

Vick Velosity, Kenny Bowers, Doug Bright, Mr. Clean, Bam Bam, Birdman Mike ROAD DIRT/TEST RIDE

Rob Brooks 678-469-0690 SCENIC RIDE CONSULTANT

Steve Finzelber-Finz Finds CONTRIBUTORS

Neale Bayly, Paul Garson, Spyke & Mike, Susan Hurst, Eric Albright, Rob Brooks, Eric Vician, Myra McElhaney, Paul Murray, Phil Gauthier PHOTOGRAPHERS

Ron & Selena Hawks, Chris Miller, Scott Odel, Eric Albright, Rob Brooks, Tom Seiter, Billy Wright, Chopper Dave, Phil Gauthier

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I am thrilled to share with you the new and exciting happenings going on at the 21st Annual Thunder By The Bay Music & Motorcycle Festival. Spending a great day with Executive Director of Suncoast Charities for Children in Sarasota, Lucy Nicandri, I was fortunate to get all the great information in order to pass it along to you via this article in Born To Ride!

What’s new with this event this year, Lucy? “We are opening up Friday night at the Sarasota Fairgrounds from 6:00-11:00 PM. We have put together an exceptional catalog of musical acts this year. This event hasn’t had a headliner act for a few years, and we are thrilled to bring in SteelHeart. Those that may not be familiar with the lead singer – there is quite an interesting story behind him, Susan. Miljenko Matijevic, the lead singer for SteelHeart, was the voice behind Mark Wahlberg in the movie, “Rock Star.” New Name change! “One of the things we saw over the last several years is that in addition to the large motorcycle enthusiast crowd, we also see a lot of people attending this event that may not even own or ride a motorcycle. They enjoy the music and seeing all the motorcycles, the freestyle acts, vendors, etc. We wanted to reach and welcome ALL demographics. So our Board of Directors decided to change the name to Thunder By The Bay Music & Motorcycle Festival.” For 20 years, there has never been a charge to get into this event. “After running any type of special event for over 20 years, you cap-out in net revenue. This event is a “Fund Raiser” that supports five nonprofit agency servicing special-needs clients of all ages. We decided that a $5 admission would offset rising costs and create additional revenues back to the charity.” For $10 a person can purchase a pass that will get them in for all three days. The $10 pass must be PURCHASED IN ADVANCE! You may purchase this ticket online at (thunderbythebay.org) or at Rossiter’s Harley-Davidson in Sarasota.

Lucy added, “Even if you plan to attend only on one day, you can give that ticket to someone else to attend on another day. Once the ticket sales close online, there will be a $5 gate admission each day.”

Lucy emphasized specific sponsors that have come through for this Festival year after year. “Sarasota Ford, Ford Power Stroke Diesel, and Rossiter’s Harley-Davidson are all Presenting Sponsors.

Their support helps offset the Festival’s major expenses so that the nominal gate admission can go directly to the charity.

VIP Tickets: $75 each day. Assured seating, food from Sonny’s BBQ, full premium cash bar (3 complimentary drink tickets each day), and private restrooms.

Having this event at the Sarasota Fairgrounds has allowed this Festival to expand and grow. Lucy explained, “We couldn’t expand

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the bike show downtown, we couldn’t have freestyle acts downtown, and the Festival wasn’t able to grow by being downtown.”

The dates are all different now for the events leading up to the weekend activities and music acts. “The Sporting Clay Tournament and the Kickoff Party are dominantly attended by the sponsors and locals. The first part of February you’re going to hear a lot about Thunder By The Bay. Friday, February 1, is the Sporting Clay Tournament at Knight’s Trail Park. Friday, February 8, is the “Born

Born To Ride Magazine, Real Editorial Content, Real Value every month for you the Reader

in cash to give away. This is another first in giving away cash for this bike show. In addition to the cash, 1st and 2nd place trophy’s will be handed out as well. In addition, there is the ever-popular Finz Finds Charity Ride taking place on Sunday. Registration is at Sarasota Ford from 9:30 AM-11:00 AM. Registration is $15/ driver and $5/passenger, and includes continental breakfast, free admission into both Myakka River State Park and the Festival with designated motorcycle parking! This ride offers $4,000 in cash prizes!

Do you like to camp? This year why not consider bringing your toy hauler/camper and camp out at the fairgrounds! “This is our second year offering camping. If you’re interested, you must go online to register for camping! The fairgrounds are managing the reservations. You can get your camping site by going to ThunderByTheBay.org and click on the TRAVEL LINKS tab.” You have to secure a spot prior to arriving at the Sarasota Fairgrounds.

You won’t be able to acquire a spot if a reservation has not been made. Check-in starts on Thursday 12:00 PM-5:00 PM and on Friday 10:00 AM-6:00 PM. Winding down our spirited conversation, Lucy added, “Any Veteran’s organization wishing to set up at the event, will receive a free 10x10 vendor space during the festival.” Be sure to contact the Festival Office to secure your vending spot.

Twenty-one years, Lucy! What do you think? “The constant in organizing an event of this magnitude is CHANGE. Sometimes it’s hard to understand the changes that have to be made. There is usually validity in the reasons why these changes were made once we can explain them; not only for the Festival but for the charity.

We’ve seen a large increase in the number of clients that need support from Suncoast Charities for Children, in particular, Middle and High School students that cannot be mainstreamed into the public school system.

The agencies are at capacity for the classrooms. Currently, Suncoast Charities for Children is focused on that need and growing concern surrounding clients who are outliving their parents with no place to reside. Having this event and raising the much-needed funds helps us fill the demands for these areas that desperately To Be Wild” Kickoff Party at the White Buffalo Saloon. Tickets are need help.” Lucy also wanted me to give a HUGE shout out to $75/pp and include an open bar, food stations, 50/50 raffle, and silent auction. Soul Circus Cowboys will be the musical entertainment her dedicated core of volunteers! “There is no possible way our event could be as successful as it is without our volunteers and my that evening. Then February 15th-17th is the Festival.

Associate Executive Director, Sarah Catell!” If you haven’t already Between band performances, Cycle Circus Live will be coming marked your calendars for Thunder By The Bay, please do so now! back as well! This energetic BMX and FMX group of riders is the All of us at Born To Ride magazine look forward to seeing you there! largest freestyle show of its kind.

Susan Hurst The 18-class bike show on Sunday has a gigantic pot of $5,000

Thunder By The Bay, Music & Motorcycle Festival Feb 15-17, for more info: ThunderByTheBay.org

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When I want to get away from all the traffic, I head out east and ride rural West Central Florida. When I was asked to create another ride for charity during the Thunder By The Bay Festival, it was an easy task. The ride will take place on Sunday, February 17th. Registration is $15 per driver & $5 per passenger.

Registration takes place at Sarasota Ford, 707 S. Washington Blvd, in Sarasota from 9:30am until 11:00am and includes a free continental breakfast, and free admission into Myakka River State Park and into the Thunder By The Bay Music & Motorcycle Festival. All vehicles are welcome for this year’s ride to compete for $4,000 in cash prizes! The ride heads out East to Myakka River State Park, where riders will get a chance to cruise through and explore this beautiful natural resource full of wildlife

and great roads for riding. After having your passport stamped at the gate, and adventuring through the park, the ride takes you through rural canopy back roads and scenic views of the Myakka River. I have spent 5 years mapping out the best scenic back roads in Florida. The best roads hide - I find them! If you get out on the back roads with one of my scenic riding guides, you are going to discover some outstanding hidden pockets of splendor.

You will be able to browse through one of my scenic riding guides at final check-in at the “Finz Finds Rides” tent. You can also find them at www.finzfinds.com.

As you head back into town, you will end at the Sarasota Fairgrounds, home to the Thunder ByThe Bay Festival. Riders will get more stamps on their passport at several of the Festival’s Presenting

Charity Cruise (44.9 mi - 1hr 22 min) From Sarasota Ford (707 S. Washington Blvd.)

North on Payne Pkwy. (387 ft) Left Oak St. (308 ft) Right (301) / S. Washington Blvd. (0.5 mi) Right Fruitville Rd. (6.4 mi) Right on East Rd at Texaco station (1.1 mi) Left Palmer Blvd (2.2 mi)

Right onto Iona Rd (1.1 mi) Continue onto Bee Ridge Rd Ext. (2.8 mi) Left FL-72 E (5.5 mi) Left into Myakka State Park (2.8 mi) Right at fork (Brown Sign) to stay on Myakka State Park Rd (3.5 mi) After leaving the park at the North Exit Continue straight (Stop Sign) on Myakka Rd (4.0 mi)

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& Major Sponsor tents. After turning in your passport to the “Finz Finds Rides” check-in tent, drawing coupons will be provided for a chance to win $4,000 in cash prizes. There will also be designated preferred motorcycle parking at the event for all riders. 100 % of the proceeds from the ride benefit Suncoast Charities For Children who annually provides support to over 5,000 children, teens, and adults with special needs. Ride sponsors include Rossiter’s Harley-Davidson, Law Office of Wittmer & Linehan, Sarasota Ford, and Born To Ride TV and Magazine.

I hope you can make it for this great ride, and get a chance to see some of the great back roads in this area. Please join us for all of the fun, and remember, it’s always a great day if you can have fun while supporting a great cause.

Steve Finz

Left onto Fruitville Rd/Historic Florida 780 W (14.8 mi) To enter Sarasota Fairgrounds follow below directions (Left onto Brink Ave., Left onto Ringling Blvd., Right onto S. Pompano Ave., Enter Gate 4 of Fairgrounds) Final Stop & Check-in - Finz Finds Tent More Info go to: www.ThunderByTheBay.org

Thanks to FinzFinds this is a Great Ride for a Great Cause. Save The Date, Sunday Feb 17, 2019

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For More Photos from The Gibtown Bikefest and Masters Bike Builders Show go to BornToRide.com

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For More Photos from The Gibtown Bikefest and Masters Bike Builders Show go to BornToRide.com

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For More Photos from The Gibtown Bikefest and Masters Bike Builders Show go to BornToRide.com

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Next Years Date Jan 17,18,19th 2020

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GARMIN NAVIGATION AND FISH FINDER Garmin ECHOMAP Plus 62cv Fish Finder with a 6-inch (15 cm) screen and in-hull transducer. A top-of-the-line navigation, charting and fish-finding system.

EXTENDED REAR PLATFORM Adds 11.5 inches to the back of the watercraft, more space for boarding and fishing also increases stability when fishing in rough water.

LINQ FISHING COOLER A rugged 13.5 US gal. (51 L) cooler specially designed for fishing with a recessed work surface, four innovative rod holders, trolling slots, tackle and bait storage, and quick-latch system.

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®TM and the BRP logo are trademarks of Bombardier recreational Products Inc. or its affiliates.

FISH PRO 155

ANGLED GUNWALE FOOTREST Foot supports for increased comfort and stability when fishing in rough waters.

ST3 HULL The ideal hull for fishing is designed for rough water confidence when riding and unmatched stability at rest.

TROLLING MODE Slow Mode speed control to make trolling easy. Set your desired speed to one of the nine pre-set positions.

LINQ ATTACHMENT POINTS Two sets of attachment points for the Fishing Cooler and additional LinQ accessories, such as a small

cooler to bring your lunch and a fuel caddy for your extended trip on the water.

DIRECT-ACCESS FRONT STORAGE A convenient bin organizer is ideal for storing quick access items like water bottles, sunscreen or a small tackle box.

WATERTIGHT PHONE BOX Shockproof smartphone storage to keep your phone connected and protected while you ride. Also, keep your phone charged with our USB port (sold as an accessory).

BOARDING LADDER Boarding from the water has never been easier with the boarding ladder.

SPECS Rider Capacity: 3 Length: 147” / 373.4 cm Width: 49.4” / 125.5 cm Weight Capacity: 600 LB / 272 KG Engine(s): Rotax 1503 NA Intake System: Naturally aspirated Displacement: 1,494 cc Cooling: Closed-Loop Cooling System (CLCS) Reverse Systems: Electronic iBR®* Fuel Type: 87 octane Throttle System: iTC™ (Intelligent Throttle Control) system Exhaust System: D-Sea-BeI™ system Fuel Capacity: 18.5 US gal / 70 L Glove Box Front Bin Linq™ Fishing Cooler: 0.6 US gal / 2.5 L 26.5 US gal / 100 L 13.5 US gal / 51 L Storage Capacity – TOTAL: 40.6 US gal / 153.5 L Color: White and Night Green White with Sound System, White and Night Green White

Read the owners manual and product warning labels before operation. Model shown with optional accessories. Vehicle specifications subject to change.

Celebrating 73 Years of Proudly Serving the Powersports Community. www.Barneys.net

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Women’s World STILETTOS ON STEEL

Greetings Lady Riders! Did you know that 27% of motorcycle riders are women? That percentage just keeps increasing! Are you ready to make the move from the back seat to the front? My name is Wendy LaForce.

I am the Sun Coast District Coordinator for Stilettos on Steel and Public Relations/ Marketing Representative/Good Will Ambassador for Born To Ride. I am here to help you!

Stilettos on Steel provides membership and networking services to female motorcycle riders all over the United States. Our driving desire is to help women who dream of riding to take the next step in becoming a motorcycle rider. Our more experienced members enjoy working with new riders to help them hone the skills learned in their riding class and prepare them for adventures on the open road with their new Stiletto Sisters.

I have met so many amazing women each one writing their own life story adventure by adventure, since starting my own chapter of Stilettos on Steel back in May of 2016.

We have grown to 109 members and we ride unapologetically deep! We empower one another’s uniqueness, strength, and peace of mind. We accept every female motorcyclist

for who she is. We don’t judge but encourage each step in her journey.

Featured Member of the Month: Stacy Lynn (aka Crazy Girl) Co-Regional Coordinator Tampa Bay South

Did you know that 27% of motorcycle riders are women? That percentage just keeps increasing!

Stacy is a Wisconsin girl, born and raised.

She spent a few years in Arizona before moving Tampa in December 2017. She has an adult son, who also rides, and her other child is her 6-year-old Chihuahua named Harley. Harley started riding with her when he was just 6-months-old. She is retired from a long career in Law Enforcement and she currently works for a plastic surgeon here in the Tampa area.

She has been riding for over 30 years now. In her younger years, she rode dirt bikes and then learned how to ride on the

street on a Yamaha Vmax. She bought her first bike (a Kawasaki racing bike!) at 15-years-old that she had to hide from her mom in a friend’s garage! She went to her first Harley rally in Milwaukee Wisconsin in 2007 and she was hooked! She bought her first Harley, a 2008 Street Glide. She now rides “Jezebel” her 2012 Street Glide.

She decided long ago she was not going to wait for a man to pick her up in order to go riding and since then she has never looked back. She has a strong passion for riding. In her career in Law Enforcement, she needed to find release and a way to feed her need for an adrenaline rush. She found out very quickly that she enjoyed the wind in her face and the freedom of the road. She joined Stilettos on Steel in 2018. She loves empowering other women and supporting their love for riding. She also loves the challenge to help others overcome their fears, teach them to become great, safe riders and share the love and passion for riding as she does.

Our event last month Empowering Lady Riders was a huge success! We had 40 bikes on our ride. Skyway Virgins and all! 12 ladies signed up for their endorsement class and 5 ladies joined Stilettos on Steel! Thank you Born to Ride and Bert’s Barracuda Harley Davidson for your continued support! We plan on having more events just like this one! Stay tuned!

Come visit us at the Pinellas Park Bike Fest! Our members and officers will be there to chat you with about membership and its’ benefits. Shine up your bike and bring it down! Stilettos on Steel is sponsoring the Ladies Class in the BTR bike show.

We’re gearing up for our largest event yet!

Born To Ride presents International Female Ride Day Saturday, May 4, 2019. Mark your calendars now! Details to come!

We support and empower each Stilletto Sister to ride with her head held high followed by a jet stream of confidence radiating from her pipes! Want to have an everlasting smile too? Want to fly faster than your demons?

Contact me today!

Wendy LaForce 727-557-8624 wendyl@stilettosonsteel.com www.stilettosonsteel.com

wendyl@stilettosonsteel.com • stilettosonsteel.com, Female Ride Day is Coming, Sat May 4th

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Spyke & Mike

Woohoo and Yippee ki yay my BTR friends. With the turn of a new year and Mike trying to hold onto his resolutions, Ole Man Winter sneaks up on us. Mike tells me, “It feels good to break out the leather coat and heavier riding gear for a little while. But, let’s hope it doesn’t last too long, that’s why we live here in Florida.” I squawk, ‘Yeah dude, I remember those cold winter months back in Virginia and how riding in that weather made me half penguin. I kind of like it too, but I don’t want him hanging around more than a few weeks or a month either. Just enough to remind us why we don’t move back up north and go away before Daytona.’

Mike babbles, “Speaking of hanging around, down in Gibtown a few weeks ago everybody left you, including me, to work the tent alone. Ron caught up to me and said you were giving it all away.

I told him you were the hardest working bird in the business and that’s what you do! At least you had your scoot to hang out on and didn’t have to sit in them stupid chairs behind that stupid table and say stupid things like, ‘Can I help you, $20.00 a t-shirt, and yes Ron and Debbie are here somewhere.’”

I cackle, ‘Dude, with the Pinellas Park Bikefest right around the corner, I was just practicing my skills of people pleasing. I know the BTR crew will be working my feathered ass big time and I just want to be ready!’

Mike replies, “There is going to be so much great music that weekend, by then I hope Ole Man Winter has headed back up north, taking a few Canadians with him. Remember last year when we didn’t have to work this event and sat in the VIP (Very Important Parrot) section watching all the good bands, listening to the drunks at the bar, and hearing their stories? My favorite one was the married couple and the bottle of tequila.” I cackle, ‘I don’t remember that one. I think I was onstage playing with Den of Thieves at the time. Refresh my memory.’

Mike starts in, “Seems the dude really liked tequila. He was BTR 56 | BORNTORIDE.COM

The Dude Really Liked Tequila

sitting there with three shots and training wheels in front of him when his wife comes up. She asked Scooter, the bartender, for the bottle of tequila and held it up saying, ‘Dave, I’ve put up with your drinking for many years and I want you to quit.’

She holds the bottle right in his face and says, ‘see that worm sitting on the bottom? It’s dead!

Now, what does that tell you?’

Without looking up or batting an eye, he yells out, ‘honey, I think I got it! If I drink tequila, I won’t get worms!’ Now, every time I see a worm in a tequila bottle, I think of Dave and just laugh.”

I put one wing over my head and cluck. ‘Oh brother, I remember a better one. It was about another couple. I recall hearing the wife say she was tired of him spending all his free time at the bar. So today she decided to ride with him and see why. As they sit down, he asked her what she wanted to drink and she replied, ‘Oh, I don’t know. To get the full effect, I guess I’ll have the same as you. So, he orders a couple of shots of Jack Daniels and throws back his. The wife watches him, takes a sip from her glass, and immediately spits it out. I recollect her yelling, ‘Yuck that’s terrible! I don’t know how you can drink this stuff!’ What the dude came back with was priceless! He turned to her and said, ‘Well, there you go!

And you thought I was out here enjoying myself every day.’

Mike chatters, “Those were some fun times. Then the following weekend, Thunder By The Bay is happening. A few years ago, they moved it from downtown. This year it’s going to be held at the Sarasota Fairgrounds. There is going to be six tribute bands and Steelheart is headlining. It’s going to be a blast!” I squawk, ‘It never gets old crossing the Skyway Bridge and seeing our friends down in Sarasota County. There’re always a few rednecks that show up at that event and they are a lot of fun to hang out with. I remember a few years ago when the promoters asked you to do your tricycle jousting and one dude tried to buy them from you to take home for him and his wife. Man, if that would have happened, I would have given anything to see the look on her face when he pulled up to the front door yelling, ‘Honey I’m home. Look what I bought. Now we can take our arguments to the next level!’

Mike laughs and says, “I remember that dude. He was one weird country bumpkin! Enough reminiscing and storytelling. We need to clear those crazy memories from our brains. Let’s get our wind therapy on.” I squabble, ‘For once you’re right. I’m done with the story. Throw my feathered ass on the scoot. Get my wings in the wind, your knees in the breeze, and the Fat Bird’s wheels rolling down the road.’

SPYKE

Do you have a Favorite Pet like Spyke? Let Us Know and we’ll feature your story. 888-795-5779

Mousterpiece, No Rest for the Wicked

My first girlfriend long ago said to me; “I hate tattoos!

You better never get one.”

Wescom in the shop, working Tuesdays and Saturdays from Noon on. Mouse works on appointments only. Chris comes from New Hampshire and is known as “Chrispy.”

Mouse being old-school and Chrispy being new-school it makes for a good blend

Within 5 hours, I was set and got a tattoo on my back. I can’t take controlling people!

It’s a bad sign boys and girls! Trust me!

Funny thing is, she stuck around for a few years. That one is now a long-lost memory and for good reasons.

Thirty some years later, one of my buddies introduced me to Ed Massimiano, owner of “Mouse’s Sunset Tattoo, located on 624 E Bay Dr, Largo, FL 33770. Ed is better known in the community as “Mouse.”

His Facebook page has an impressive following of approximately 7,000 fans.

Meeting Mouse and seeing his work, I figured it was time to cover that mistake I made some 30 years ago with that first girlfriend and get a bigger tattoo.

Due to multiple surgeries, Mouse closed shop for about a year back in 2018. The community of bikers and beyond will be pleased to know he is back on his feet getting ink to skin with very satisfied customers. Mouse reopened with Chris

(That’s what Mouse said!).

Mouse started tattooing back in 1975 under the mentorship of legendary “Crazy Philadelphia Eddie” and “Harry Von Groff” (RIP). Mouse travelled for four years on the road tattooing at bike events and tattoo conventions. Mouse is recipient of 300 Awards in the business. Most recently, the “Lifetime Achievement” version award of the National Tattoo Associatio, the “Bob Shaw Award.”

Mouse has no intention to retire. He loves his job too much! I can tell you because I witnessed in his behavior the enthusiasm of several 12-year-olds after he was done with my tattoo! Mouse is a good old grass roots human being with a no non-sense BS approach. He wants to continue offering tattoos at fair market value with the highest quality. Speaking of highest quality, Mouse maybe old school but his shop is on the leading edge of technology.

Mouse uses a rotary machine. Do not refer

UFC Photo DEUT 6:5, www.facebook.com/FloridaNightTrain • www.facebook.com/TattooedSteelLLC

to it as a “tattoo gun” like I did!!! You will stand corrected very quickly. Using this technology combined with vegetable-based inks, Mouse reduces his tattooing time by 1/3, and he is able to offer tattoos with less pain if you are sensitive. What became of my old tattoo? I got a killer professional calligraphist from France (Facebook name: “?lph? Sk?o”) who does speak English. She designed the word “Salvation” (long story) in vertical for me. I showed up with my good and beautiful friend, Brandi Michelle, 2018 “Ink Magazine” cover-page runner-up contestant. We decided to hang-out after we did a photoshoot using veteran photographer Gamo of Knowgamo Photography Inc. It was a perfect way to cover my old tattoo and also send a “loving” message to the self-righteous, deceived and unforgiving religious zealots who have crossed mine and my children’s paths. Every dog has its day baby. Thank God He and the few genuine Christians out there are bigger than what they all reduced Him to. But that will be for another writing project of mine. Thank you Mouse for helping me turn that page.

by Simon Bois, AKA “Night Train” 51 BORNTORIDE.COM | BTR 59

Fuel Tank Rusty?

Craig Can Fix It!

The heart and soul of your bike is the fuel tank.

Originally, the tank was new and clean, but over the years that all has changed. If you are tired of cleaning carburetors or think you need a new tank because yours is too rusty or it leaks, I have the solution. We clean tanks and preserve the metal – even permanently stop leaks! The highgrade epoxy coating we use is second to none; we can even remove most Kreem and Red-Kote liners.

We have a fast turnaround time; it’s the easiest thing you’ll do all week. Call 813-407-2226 or CraigPaintsBikes.com

www.B Events Friday, February 1 Tampa, FL LAMA Tampa 14th Anniversary Welcome Party 7pm LAMA Clubhouse. 813-299-4482 Saturday, February 2 Born To Ride TV Every Saturday 10pm on ThisTV Tampa Bay, also on Youtube_ BTR Borntoride Homosassa, FL (2/2-2/3) Crystal Harley-Davidson HOG Appreciation Weekend 9am-4pm. Stop by Crystal H-D to register for drawings, pick up your ground hog to take to War Horse H-D to receive a prize. CrystalHarley. com Tampa, FL LAMA Tampa 14th Anniversary 12pm-5pm Teamsters Union Hall. $15 donation (covers dinner plate).

813-299-4482 Sunday, February 3 Born To Ride TV Every Sunday 11pm on Great 38 Tampa Bay, also on Youtube_ BTR Borntoride Clearwater, FL Quaker Steak & Lube The Big Game Party and Bert’s Motorcycle Giveaway. TheLube.com Webster, FL Swap-O-Rama at Webster’s Flea Market. First Sunday of every month. Cycle and Auto Swap meet 6:30am – 3pm $5 Admission (under 12 Free) Includes free drink. Covered 10x10 space only $12 Outdoors 30x15 space only $21 plus tax. 352-793-9877 Tuesday, February 5 Born To Ride Radio Every Tuesday from 7 PM - 10 PM. Live on Facebook.com/ BornToRideTVMagazine at River’s Edge in Gibsonton. Live call in 727-678-9055.

Come out live for Taco Tuesday, $1.50 tacos!

Wednesday, February 6 Clearwater, FL Quaker Steak & Lube Bike Night (every Wed). Live music, great food, and fun. TheLube.com

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Sendare in your info@BornToRide.com, get there noticed, seenupand getold results.

There someevents great to events coming up, so get out andbemeet with friends!

BornToRide.com/events s, Rides & Destinations Thursday, February 7 Homosassa, FL Crystal HarleyDavidson Bike Night at High Octane. CrystalHarley.com

Homosassa, FL Crystal HarleyDavidson MotorColthes Fashion Show with refreshments 6pm8pm. CrystalHarley.com

Homosassa, FL High Octane Saloon Bike Night (every Thu) 6pm-11pm. Hosted by MC Trae Vance (Citrus 95.3).

HighOctaneSaloon.com

Friday, February 8 Clearwater, FL (2/8-2/10) Pinellas Park Bikefest at Quaker Steak Lube. Live music, great food, beverages, BTR TV taping & magazine shoot, and vendors.

727-572-9464

Friday, February 8, 9, 10 Pinellas Park Bikefest (See Page 8) Quaker Steak & Lube Saturday, February 9 Born To Ride TV 10pm ThisTV

Thursday, February 14 Kissimmee, FL Old Town Bike Night 5pm-11pm (every Thu).

Live music, & more. 407-3964888

Saturday, February 9 Brandon, FL - Scavenger Hunt and Missions Ride 9am.

Starts at any of the three H-D locations (Tampa, Brandon, New Port Richey). All vehicles welcome, Ride to benefit My Warrior’s Place. Ride4Fallen.org

New Port Richey, FL Bikers in Bowties H-D of New Port Richey 6pm-9pm. Live music, free drinks, grat food, bikes, girls; all you can eat buffet & champagne $25. Renew your vows Harley style. Get your tickets now, call for details 888-328-0973

Homosassa, FL Empty Bowls Fundraiser 11am-1pm Crystal Harley-Davidson.

CrystalHarley.com

Friday, February 15 Inglis, FL (2/15-2/17) Screwie Louie’s Scooter Haven Sweetheart Weekend. Special weekend packages, steak dinner and romantic gift. Live music Saturday, Open Jam on Sunday 1-5pm. 727-565-8743

Sunday, February 10 Born To Ride TV 11pm Great38 Sunday, February 10 St. Petersburg, FL Biff-Burger Sunday Extravaganza (every Sun) 1pm. Raffle benefitting Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital. BiffBurgers.com Tuesday, February 12 Gibsonton, FL Born To Ride Radio Every Tuesday from 7 PM - 10 PM. Live on Facebook. com/BornToRideTVMagazine at River’s Edge in Gibsonton. Live call in 727-678-9055. Come out live for Taco Tuesday, $1.50 tacos!

Sarasota, FL (2/15-2/17) 21st Annual Thunder By The Bay Music & Motorcycle Festival at Sarasota Fairgrounds. Steelheart performing Saturday, This year’s Festival includes a Sunday charity ride (open to all vehicles), ThunderByTheBay.org Saturday, February 16 Born To Ride TV 10pm ThisTV Saturday, February 16 Homosassa, FL Crystal HarleyDavidson Crystal River HOG

Palooza 11am-2pm.

CrystalHarley.com Sunday, February 17 Born To Ride TV 11pm Great38 Sunday, February 17 New Port Richey, FL Suncoast Brotherhood 7th Annual Chili Cook-off 12pm-5pm VFW Post 6180. SCBHPasco.com Tuesday, February 19 Gibsonton, FL River’s Edge Taco Tuesday Bike Night (3rd Tue) 7pm-10pm with Parti Patti MC and Born To Ride Radio featuring live music and $1.50 tacos at River’s Edge Bar & Grill 6226 Ohio Ave. Gibsonton, FL 33534. 813-671-9196 Friday, February 22 Brandon, FL (2/22-2/23) Barney’s of Brandon Huge Truckload Event 9am-5pm. Huge clearance section up to 90% off (Helmets, jackets, gloves, vests, boots, saddlebags, hats, T-shirts, and more)! Free food and more!

813-628-9418 Wauchula, FL (2/22-2/24) Charlotte’s Webb Pub 11th Annual Mardi Party. Entertainment all weekend, free camping, free vending, Cajun food Sunday Born To Ride Bike Show. 863-7358887 Saturday, February 23 Born To Ride TV 10pm ThisTV Saturday, February 23 Safety Harbor, Lady Riders Seminar, (Page 19) Saturday, February 23 Clearwater, FL Quaker Steak & Lube Coast Guard Benefit.

Live music, great food, and fun.

TheLube.com

To submit view even morecoming events visit BornToRide.com Events There areand some great events up, for more events, go to www.BornToRide.com

Homosassa, FL Crystal HarleyDavidson Customer Appreciation Day 10am-2pm. CrystalHarley.com Sunday, February 24 Born To Ride TV 11pm Great38 Sunday, February 24 Plant City, FL Twilight Zone Biker Super Sunday (last Sun) 813-737-3112 Tuesday, February 26 Gibsonton, FL Born To Ride Radio Every Tuesday from 7 PM - 10 PM. Live on Facebook.com/ BornToRideTVMagazine at River’s Edge in Gibsonton, live call in 727-678-9055. Come out live for Taco Tuesday, $1.50 tacos!

Wednesday, February 27 Clearwater, FL Quaker Steak & Lube Born To Ride Wednesday (last Wed). Live music, BTR TV taping & magazine shoot, Bike Show (Three winners-cash and trophies) great food, and fun.

TheLube.com Thursday, February 28 Apollo Beach, FL Salty Shamrock Bike Night (last Thu). Live music, Vendors 813-938-5282 Sunday, March 3 Webster, FL Cruise for a Childhood Cure to benefit Shriners Hospitals for Children 12pm Webster Flea Market. Ride from Webster’s to Howard’s Flea Market. Sponsor a child for $5 or more and Swap-ORama will match your donations.

WebsterWestsideFleaMarket.com Thursday, March 14 Ormond Beach, FL Tropical Tattoo Chopper Time Old School Chopper Show 11am-4pm. Live music, cash & prizes, special guest, BBQ, MC Roadside Marty, 20-classes. 368672-1888

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