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- SEE PGS. 12-13 CONTENTS Florida Ride Or Die Magazine | 727-944-6961 | www.floridarideordie.comThe information contained herein is provided by Florida Ride or Die Magazine or by its advertisers. FLROD makes every effort to present accurate and reliable information in the issue. Florida Ride or Die 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 Florida Ride or Die Magazine. Florida Ride or Die Magazine (including its employees, contributors and agents) assumes no responsibility for consequences that my result from the use of the information herein, including the use of the information obtained at www.floridarideordie.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 copy write or other intellectual property rights, and the violation of property, privacy, or personal rights of others. FROD 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 FLROD Magazine with respect to such information contained throughout the site. No part may be copied without written permission of the publisher, Florida Ride or Die Magazine. FLORIDA RIDE OR DIE MAGAZINE 8432 Delaware Dr, Spring Hill, FL floridarideordiemagazine@yahoo.comAntonioPUBLISHER34607HernandezCO-PUBLISHERKathleenHernandezEDITORLaurenHernandezSALESOFFICE727-944-6961GRAPHICDESIGNTracyAllen813-814-1505 FEATURES 8 KRAZY KIY 16-17 L.A.M.A. JACKSONVILLE 20-21 THE SIGMA MALE - BY NIGHT TRAIN 24-25 LOS ROBERTACAMBUMBOSVEGAOF LOS CAMBUMBOS 30 KARI EMORY 31 DILLON COOK 34 LAS CRYSTALPOCASOF LAS POCAS 38-48 SALVATION SALOON - BY NIGHT TRAIN 42 SOCIAL MEDIA FAME - BY ZACH OF WHY NOT RIDE 46 GIRLS GONE STURGIS 461630 A Sane Design 27 Attorney Fran Haasch 2 & 3 Attorney Fran Haasch BC AJ Therapy Center 33 AJ Beauty Institute 32 Bert’s Barracuda H-D 10-11 Casper’s Pressure Washing 26 Dr. Paul Fisher & Associates 14 End of Summer Car/Bike Show 28 NT Fairing 44 OCC Road House Bike Night 7 Ride Now 22-23 Ride Now Bike Night 40 St. Pete Bikefest 6 The Hemp Dispensary 18-19 Travieso Design 29 Trim Printing 45 West Palm Beach Bike Night 15
4 2022 ISSUE #14 • SEPT / OCT ADVERTISER INDEX ON THE COVER CHASE HORTON
PHOTO BY JORGE SIGALA
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She got her first bike in 2017 which was a Kawasaki ZX – 6R. Next bike was a 05 Kawasaki 636 which she traded in for a Harley Davidson sportster. Currently she is riding a 2015 Honda Grom and gets to focus on stunt riding which is her true passion.
Facebook : Kiyla Chandler (Krazy Kiy) Instagram: krazykiy2.0
Kiyla Chandler AKA ( Krazy Kiy) Age 26 - Tarpon Springs, FL.
Kiyla has been riding since the age of 2. What interested Kiyla to start riding was the freedom she felt when her grandparents & dad would take her on rides on their motorcycles. She says “It’s a feeling like no other and when I’m riding it makes me feel 100% free.”
Kiyla is in the stunt scene and says “I have fallen plenty of times before looping the bike while practicing my wheelies but it never stops me from getting back up and trying again.”
In 2021 she became a licensed tattoo artist. Kiyla has many goals she wants to convert an RV or bus into a travel tattoo shop where she would be able to travel to different states to tattoo & ride. Her dream is also to become a professional stunt rider.
Kiylas advice to other riders “ride your own ride & follow your dreams.”
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Photo by Jorge Sigala
I’m Chase Horton, 22 years old from Houston, Texas. It’s wild to think that I started off motocross racing from age 5 until I was around 13 yrs old; I went from a PW50 to a KX85, to now in the streets on a 2021 YZ125 and 2022 YZ450. Riding is and always has been my high, and in my blood, I feel like it was intertwined into my DNA. I ride for the freedom, the challenges, the goals, whether on dirt or in the street; its where my mind set always is. Bike Life is not just words, it’s a life-style. When your part of it, you feel free, you ride with others that feel the same way, there is no color, gender or issues, and everyone has got each other’s backs. People don’t understand our way of life, why we ride,
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My life made a turn, one fateful night on November 19, 2021, I was trying to make it back home after riding with the pack, and a truck turned into me 3 blocks from my house, got out looked at me as I lay in severe pain reaching for them, screaming for help, they grabbed their license plate and took off. A witness took off after them but lost them in the neighborhood. I was told that I was placed into a medically induced coma at the trauma center for hours until they made the decision to amputate my lower left leg. My mom stopped them and said “ you wake him up he needs to make this decision not you”! I was in ICU for about two weeks and then I made the decision based on the information given to me about my leg and heal to allow for amputation. Hardest decision of my life, deep depression set in. My mind racing, I questioned, could I ride again, was my first thought to myself, is this the right decision. I had to pray about it, pull God in, my family in, and my friends as close as I could get them, it has been the roughest time of my life; but something my mom said stuck with me “First thing is your alive, and a leg doesn’t define who you are, a will and determination does, you can still do and be anything you want, life will be what you make of That’sit”.
when I knew being an amputee will not define who I am, it will not stop me from being me and reaching for my goals and dreams. My accident and amputation was God putting me on a new path, a new journey, with a new purpose. I want others to be inspired and use my story as their drive and determination. I want others to understand, life is rough, but don’t allow your mistakes, mishaps, downfalls to dictate you, you dictate to life. Life is a gift and though sometimes we forget, we need to live it as what it is “a gift”. So remember in your most down moments, look for that will and determination, dig deep, then seek your purpose, and your dream and LIVE IT !!!!
Follow my story on the gram at Chase2coo.1leg
why we do what we do, except for saying, you feel free, you feel at peace.
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chapter. We have active members which include DAMAS de LAMA, spousal members, associates and our youth members who all wear the LAMA colors, our mission is to support the ideals of LAMA, organize motorcycle events support moto-tourism, provide recreational and safety education activities for our members and establish charitable events on behalf of those less fortunate.Riding is our passion; it is a way to connect with nature and let go of those things that negatively impact our lives. There is no time to think about anything else but to enjoy that adrenaline rush. It is the way to release, recharge and be at peace with everything that is around us.
15 Members saw the need to have a LAMA Chapter in Jacksonville, FL in which they could share with other locals, their passion to ride. The LAMA Jacksonville “904 Original” group was established 13 years ago. Our 13th year anniversary was this past month and we celebrated with a huge party with our fellow riders.
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LAMA has participated in different types of charities. They have visited and brought presents to children during the holidays and the most recent was at Woodland Grove Health and Rehab Center where they spent some time with the residents and shared their experiences as Whatriders.isyour message to people who judge sport bikes: “We don’t judge anyone on a bike… we have a couple of members that have sport bikes. We always
The Latin American Motorcycle Association “LAMA” is an International Humanist Association whose mission is to promote peace, love, harmony and non-violence worldwide and serve as example to others all while enjoying the Moto Touring Sport. It is recognized as one of the most active long distance riding clubs in the world. The female riders “DAMAS DE LAMA” are an integral part of the association and have an equal role. They are well known for riding their own motorcycles, riding long distances and compete on the Moto Touring Championship.
Latin American Motorcycle Association Jacksonville(L.A.M.A.)“904Original”
The 904 Originals love to ride with LAMA as it encompasses family values. That is a reason why so many join the Jacksonville
L.A.M.A Jacksonville
If you would like more information LAMA Jacksonville can be contacted by the following: call or text: Facebook:(904)654-5963
tip: “Do what you love doing…If you need someone to ride with message us. Especially female riding…we have a few females (Dama’s) that love to ride…hit one of them up and they will ride with you. Our President Tanya is always looking for more female riders to ride with. You will never be left behind.”
the 3rd Saturday of the month. They also have a couple of things in the works…one being family day. “We all worked so hard with this anniversary party that we as a chapter will come together and enjoy our day. We also have our Halloween Bike night, Thanksgiving dinner and our Christmas party.”
welcome them to ride with us. Don’t judge anyone for riding a bike and enjoying what they do. Take the time to get to know them/us and then come to your own conclusion. Riding is a passion and not everyone will share the same encouragementWordspassion.”oforsafety
Clubhouse: 5624 Cagle Jacksonville,Road,FL32216
LAMA Jacksonville Events: Karaoke nights are held the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month and Bike Nights usually
LAMA Jacksonville Instagram: 904lama TikTok: @lamajax904 Website: 904originals.com
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“DARE TO BE”
By: Florida Night Train
The SIGMA Male
Sources: Internet research Model:CourtesyPhotoIG:Facebook.com/floridanighttrainFlorida_Night_TrainCredit:LeciaMcDermottof:www.Icicles.comShalimarE.
an accommodating “yes-man” of sort often times associated with and highly supportive of things perceived as less masculine. The Beta male assumes a passive or subservient role in social or professional environments. My findings also revealed the “Gamma Male” closely tied to the Beta male but deemed as adventurous and upbeat. They are a friend of many and love to explore. A Gamma male is in touch with their feminine side and is not afraid of showing his emotions. They understand the feelings of those around them, especially in regards to women. Then there is the “Delta Male” who are your average Joes. They are not the smartest, strongest, or most attractive. Nothing really stands out in intelligence or physicality. Delta men are hard workers and extremely competent at what they do. They do the work and get things done. Deltas find it very hard to open up and trust people. A Delta may also have been a former Alpha that decided to let go the Alpha existence for a more peacefulThenlife.there is the mystical “Sigma Male”. They understand the importance of being social but they prefer being alone.
www.facebook.com/floridanighttrainIthasbeensaidthereisanew
breed of males out there. I say there is a new label to define true, genuine age-old honorable masculinity. We all know about the “Alpha Male” who is known to use force, fear, power and authority to intimidate and get what he wants. We also know about the “Beta Male” with a reputation to be a softy,
They don’t need a thousand “likes” on social media and they don’t really care for those who do. They enjoy few friends and that’s enough to them. They prefer doing things and figuring things out on their own without depending on anyone. They learn and acquire the skills they need to execute any project they set their mind to. They are selfsufficient with skills to offer. They are known to face their fears. They own their mistakes. They can be alone for extended periods of time to find solutions to the problems they face. They will ask for help only when they know they can’t solve a problem by themselves. Often times I assume they will have not one but several trusted mentors each with their own specialty in life. They view their fears as milestones and challenges to overcome rather than cave into being afraid. They see fear as “temporary”. They know all have fears and all can overcome their fears if they put their mind to it. They can fight their inner battles and find purpose. They know what to do, when and how to do it. They will know themselves in depth which is often referred to as “selfaware”. That by the way takes a crap-load of work and years to achieve. They will know exactly the qualities and affinities in the life-partner they want. If you want a Sigma
but does not let it get to his head because he is always in pursuit of the bigger picture. They have confidence and they believe in themselves. Others are often found jealous or insecure in the face of a Sigma male. Sigma males practice realistic optimism. The Sigma does not give up easily because he believes there is a solution to every problem. They set their minds on achievable objectives and they are highly strategic. They are deemed to be some of the most successful and sought-after individuals. They will help those who want to learn and act on it but they will not spend a minute on anyone making excuses. Small talk is not acceptable and bores them to death. Other men copy them but they never copy others.
The Sigma male is in my opinion what every man was/is actually originally designed to be. Independent, honorable, humble, strong, confident, self-aware, self-sufficient, loyal, generous, trust-worthy, discerning, relentless, resilient, creative, resourceful … and the list goes on. The Sigma male is not a new breed of men. We just allowed ourselves to lose our ways in raising good men. We fractured ourselves in pieces dissecting characters as described above i.e. alpha, delta, gamma, beta … when in fact the Sigma encompasses all of it in one single
package. I would be remiss if I did not point out there is also a female Sigma version. Both much like the yin and yang they are interdependent, inter-sufficient adoring each other. The more I researched these characters the more I found myself inspired with words, concepts and, dare I even say lost realities that resonated deep withinWhenme.
I read the news out there and when I look at social media. Both genders screaming for affirmation and acceptance seeking deep human connections baring it all both physically, emotionally and, even spiritually. As if social media and technology could replace human affirmation!!! If you pay close attention my good friends and if you discern between all this confused modern fog, both Sigma male and female are still
They spend ~80% of their time planning and the rest ~20% of time executing. Not afraid to say no if requests are not in line with their objectives, they can be perceived as arrogant or judged as selfish. Sigma male understands the value of theirs and other people’s time. Their weeks are planned ahead. This is why they treat requests on needs and wants basis. They will adapt and be sensitive to emergencies sacrificing their priorities accordingly. They are logical beings more than emotional or reactive. While it is common to the average mortals out there to feed their ego by comparing themselves to others, Sigma males don’t waste their time doing that. They pursue excellence, knowledge and health in every dimension of life i.e. emotional, spiritual, physical and intellectual. They are always in competition with themselves seeking to grow with an insatiable thirst to learn. The Sigma celebrates his achievements
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male as a mate your most fierce competition will not be others. Your competition will be his peace and if you cannot add or complete his peace, you will be left behind broken hearted. Sigma male will have clarity of mind and map-out how to get to their objectives in alignment with their purpose. That is, short term, mid-term and long term.
very much there and here with us all. They are within us all. If we pay close attention and if we follow their lead; silent, steady, moving along and forward pioneering through all the junk without being distracted by all the noise, we will know victory within. The media does not want you to see that. Sigmas are too stable. Too strong. Sigmas can be threatening to those seeking their own interests. Sigmas always end-up seeing through clearly. Their best weapon? “Inner Intelligence” paired with a solid moral compass. Look it up! They can’t be controlled or manipulated. I am thankfully seeing more and more Sigmas out there. Perhaps a wishful reflection of who I strive to be within deep down. Regardless, Sigmas are rising infusing some good doses of authenticity into this confused mass. I will not name anyone. Open your eyes. Observe and dare to be inspired by who you really are deep down. Dare to stand in the face of adversity. Dare to grow. Dare to say “I was wrong let me fix me”. Dare to give yourself a chance. Dare the Sigma in you. Male, or female. We are in a good place. Striving to be Sigma will cost you a great deal. Perhaps even relationships or friendships. I know first-hand. Sigmas look in the face of destruction and evil. They smile. They smile at the glorious satisfaction of battles in front of them knowing they are living life in full force forging ahead for themselves yes but also for their loved ones. They are lions. Not sheep. Popularity is of no value to them. Who do you seek to be? Who do you want to be? Those are all the thoughts and reflections always consuming my mind when I ride.
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Monthly Bike Nights last Friday of every month + covered bike parking Bikes For All Styles Of Riding Massive selection of New and Pre-Owned Motorcycles 6407 Blanding Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32244 • 904.351.6914 • ridenowjacksonville.com Premiere Service Department 23
In 2019 Roberto Vega took his passion for riding and racing to another level and formed the group Los Cambumbos del Monte. Everyone in his group have different abilities as riders and love taking riding to the Extreme and are always up for a challenge.
As a group they encourage each other to always give 100% in every race and most importantly never doubt yourself because you can always achieve your goals no matter how long it may take.
del Monte next event will be in November to celebrate their 3rd anniversary. They are looking for 9 ATV groups that are willing to accept a Group challenge. If you are interested, please contact them on Facebook or Instagram for more information.
Los Cambumbos del Monte
Follow us Instagram-on:Los Cambumbos del Monte Facebook- Los Cambumbos del Monte
LosRIDING.”Cambumbos
Los Cambumbos del Monte attend many events throughout Florida and support all groups and rides.
Robert’s message to others “At the end of the day we are all one and everyone shares the same love and passion for
I’ve been riding since I was 12 years old and racing for 2 years now. My first bike was a Yamaha blaster at the age of 12. Today I am riding a Yamaha YFZ450R. I have made the following modifications: flex bar for better handling, changed the exhaust for better acceleration, lighter rims, Neff bar for safety and mostly everything is powered cord. My dream bike is a Honda CRF450R dirt bike with motor converted into a TRX450R frame.
Roberto Vega age 37 Tampa, FL
Roberto Vega
Instagram: Negroperla_18 • FaceBook: Negroperla
On September 27,2020 I competed in my first open quad class C race and won 3rd place. When I achieved my first win it was a huge accomplishment for me and I was eager to continue racing and climb my
thankSpecialyou to my friendsfamily,and all my sponsors:
way to the top. Four months and 6 races later I was promoted to open class B and came in 3rd place in the championship. Through hard work dedication and training I am now competing in the open quad class A which is a class away from being a professional Quad racer. In July 2022 I won 1st place at a local off-road challenge in OctoberOcala.
2022 will start the new racing season and I am super excited that I will be continuing to compete in the Open Quad class A, and gaining more wins. Be on the lookout when I reach my goal and become a Quadprofessionalracer.
I got started racing quads / four wheelers when my friend Janky Garcia from the group FTR (Florida Trail Riders) who also races invited me to be part of the organization. When I am racing or riding, I love the adrenaline and peace of mind I receive it’s a feeling like nothing else matters just ride and let the stress go.
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Kari Emory Age 25
I’ve been riding on my own for about 3 years. However, I’ve been around motorcycle’s my whole life. Grew up riding on the back of my dad’s bike as a kid. Years later, both of my older brothers had bikes. It was only a matter of time before I bought my own. My first bike was a specifisaycurrentZX-6R,tonowatotaled.whichCBR600RRendedupIlaterboughtYamahaFZ-07andfinallymovedona2013Kawasakiwhichismybike.IwouldIdon’thaveonecdreambike…
because it gives me a sense of freedom. I learned that the term throttle therapy is in fact a real thing. Sometimes just taking off on two wheels is what’s necessary to clear my mind. Sometimes it’s a form of therapy, other times it’s a sense of community and pure joy.
I currently have a 2013 Kawasaki ZX6R There are a lot of customizations on my motorcycle. However, I purchased my motorcycle from someone in Texas who already fully set up the bike as a stunt bike. It has the dented gas tank for stunts, handbrake for the rear wheel, crash cages, dirt bike handlebars, 53 tooth sprocket, and a cut out passenger seat.
A piece of advice I would offer to new riders is to familiarize yourself with the most common motorcycle accidents that way you can learn what to look for and how to avoid it yourself. Also, you have to not only expect people to not see you, but almost want to hit you intentionally. When you ride like that you are always alert and ready to respond in any scenario. PLEASE!!! if you really want to open the throttle up… at least do it on the highway and not on backroads where anyone can turn out in front of you.
In 2020 I was involved in a very bad accident that put me in the hospital and caused me to have surgery and a long road of healing that even to this day is still affecting me. It definitely changed the way I ride now.
Instagram @Flawed_Kariinstagram)(on@glshootingby:Photoinstagram)(on@h3rsel_rrby:Photo
more like a dream Garage. I would like to have a bike for every occasion! On road, off road, pit bike, cruiser, sport bike. I want them all!
Irider.ride
My goal as a rider is to be skilled in every area or scene of riding. I have yet to go to a track day and I would love to experience it just to learn more and become a better
Born and raised here in South Florida near Fort Lauderdale. Presently living there as well.
I have been around bikes my entire life thanks to my mom and dad. By the age of 10 years old was riding dirt bikes and racing. My first bike was a Yamaha PW50.
Davidson Road glide. My future goal is to travel all over the United States and do family stunt shows with my wife and son who also ride with me.
My word of advice to other riders “Keep pushing yourself even if you fail over and over again Don’t ever give up. See you all on the open road!!!!”
You can follow me on social media
Dillon
PanamaCookCity Beach
Facebook: Dillon Cook
Raised in Dallas, Texas and currently living in Panama City Beach, FL. Riding has been a passion of mine since I was young.
I have 2 bikes that are my dream bikes Yamaha R7 and a Harley
Instagram: Lowlifestunts
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We can be Contact by: Facebook: Las Pocas or Instagram: Las_Pocas_
The Group was established March of 2020. Our group is a small group that’s why we chose to name it Las Pocas, we ride motorcycles and four wheelers it’s a very versatile group but more than a group this is our family. We do every type of activities together we empower every woman in and
outside the group. When we gather together problems or worries disappear. We have each other’s backs in our up and down moments we are all there for each other.For us riding means being millionaires haha, means happiness even knowing our worlds is falling apart, means having each other’s back, means LIFE, means Freedom, means Love.We love to help and support every event of the community or others charities. We recently participated in the Off-road Challenge 2022 supporting Boricuas en Orlando Atv and had two of our girl’s winning 1st and 7th place. As a group we are open to keep supporting every group on road and off road.
Our next event will be our 3rd anniversary it’s going to be on road and we are working on the route and details for this event.
Las Pocas
The worlds has enough hate we don’t need more, We would say mind your business, be Kind everyone deserves to be happy and enjoy what they love to do they don’t hurt Followyou. your dreams, follow you heart! Don’t let no one discourage you and work hard to make your dreams come true only you have the power to make it happen.
The Founder of the group is Crystal who was motivated by Mike to make a women’s group. The group is located in Florida, we currently have members in the cities of Saint Cloud, Apopka, Kissimmee, Orlando, Poinciana, Tavares, Mount Dora and Eustis. We also have 2 girls in The state of PA!
32 years old originally from Caguas, Puerto Rico and currently living in Mount Dora, Florida.
At the age of 7 years old Crystal remembers waking up on Sunday mornings to the sound of a group of ATV riders passing her house to go mudding. She would run outside to see all of them and would get so excited. It was her dream to buy one and ride. In 2016 her dream became a reality when she bought her first ATV, Honda TRX400 and her first bike was a Suzuki DR-Z400SM. Crystal is now riding a Suzuki LTR 450. She recently participated in the Offroad Challenge 2022 and won first place.
Riding is her life and its what makes her feel free and her goal is to be able to motivate and inspire other females to ride and share the same passion.
Crystal Marie Rivera Soto
CrystalRivera
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20+ years. I have been among them wearing the same mask of “holier than thou” and fake purity when in fact I was as they are, saved but rotting in the chore of my wicked soul.
38 By: Florida Night Train www.facebook.com/floridanighttrainIG:florida_night_train
What amazes me is how we all have become masters at making excuses out of circumstances or people out of our control to justify our own behavior. What a crock. You know what? I am the worse sinners of saints and I refuse to stop owning my end of the bargain showing up where and when I should. As a society we have grown way too much into an enabling and accommodating sensitive bunch. “If it doesn’t feel good then don’t” Isn’t that how the saying goes? Taking the easy path produces easy and weak men/women. Easy or weak men/ women produces hardships. Then hardships will produce strong men/ women. Which side of the fence do we want to be counted in? Are we sheep or lions?
I knew something was wrong. Very wrong. Wrong with it all. Until I heard the song “Ocean” by Hillsongs United (Youtube it!!!) where the song pleads our Maker to take it all so He can teach us how to truly walk a life that is genuine in all our imperfections. This song stopped me in my track. I felt it from within deeper than I ever was accustomed to. I knew at that moment my Maker heard my heart’s prayer and that things were about to change. Fast forward and I lost it all in 2017. I’ll spare you the details. Let me just say that looking back, I am so thankful. It kicked my ass in a severe way and that is what I needed. Still do sometimes to be honest. Today I am not perfect but I been happier than I ever been even if I sit among hypocrites or saints. That is in church or not. Know why? I learned about compassion even towards those who hurt me. It truly is freeing!
photos photography studio
“The church is filled with hypocrites, liars, adulterers, cheaters, abusers etc…” I hear that all the time and guess what? It’s true. Another one is “Oh I don’t need to go to church or a building to connect with God” And you would not be wrong.
by: 323
Salvation Saloon
Badass Church and Saints©
Where am I going with this? There is not enough space here to say all I have to say about the church and the judgmental legalistic weak hypocrites I have crossed paths with over the last
There are hundreds of churches around where we can go and make things right in our soul for our own sake. There are churches of all sorts at least somewhat approachable if you aren’t used to it. If you are a Christian biker (or not) you can reach out to the
Former Hells Angel President Barry Mayson says “I thank the Lord for this vision and the heart to reach the lost. I was so blessed to preach at the bikers bar
“Callchurch”itamiracle, but the watering hole is transformed into something called the Salvation Saloon. On the same bar stool where someone got stoned on Saturday night, someone else gets saved on Sunday morning.” - St. Petersburg Times
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There are a lot of badass saints in that community. You can take my word for it. I’ve heard a few testimonies.
“Christian scripturesforandisPauloffidecades.gatheringbikerswheresalvationsaloon.com/Saloon”isOnehomeyouandpatientyouhelpcertaincmausa.org/.association”Motorcyclisthttps://Iamtheywillgladlyyoufindachurchcanfitin.Beintheprocessdon’tletitweardownfindingthatchurch.ofmyfavorite“TheSalvationhttp://www.hundredsofhavebeennowforFormerpolicecerturnedPastor,Whitetherewhoalong-timefriendofficiatedaneventmesharesfromeachSunday.
The demand grew for weekly services instead of just every couple of months. Thus the “Watering Hole Church”. Since then, many lives have been changed. Lives that would not have been changed by traditional means. A unique transformation took place. What use to be a biker church is now a church for people of all walks of life. You will find diverse groups of people, worshipping God & loving each other in an accepting & togetherthatmeYes.Wherebechurchchurch…it’s“Salvationatmosphere.non-judgmentalTheysaytheSaloon”isnotjustaanexperience.Themembershavecometoknownas,“Saloonatics.”dotheymeet?Inabar.Inabar.PastorPaultells“Matthew18:20,Jesussaid,whereverpeoplegatherinHisName…He
The Salvation Saloon, began as an outreach ministry to the biker community and to those who would not seek out God in traditional ways. It began as the “Traveling Saloon Gospel Show” where they would travel to bars presenting the Gospel message in unique ways. In other words…if people would not go to church…church would get to them… on two wheels.
Looking back I’m glad I lost it all. I’m glad I got hurt and went through hardship. I’m thankful for the sinners and the saints in and outside of church who disappointed me as I am sure I disappointed them too. It kicked my ass helped me grow the heck up, own my crap and not blame everyone else for my Friends,flaws. be lions! Not sheep. Get your butt in gear and own this gift of life.
So what? We all face hardships to a degree. There truly are forces out there that seem to want to take us down through depression, adversity, negativity, self-pity or whatever else. Those forces win when we give up making the right decisions. Getting us to drink or use or whatever else in order to numb our pain is what these forces are after. Getting us to stop hanging out with people or in environments where our crap is going to be called out is exactly their objectives. I say hell to the no!
Point here is, with all the judgment and hostilities coming at me from the heart of the church, I was resolved to sit my ass in that pew every Sunday even if it killed me and no matter what. I was resolved to never quit going to church even if the arrows kept coming from those I had come to believe loved me most.
would be among them. Well, He has not failed, to show up at a single service, and prove that He is alive & well on planet earth. He’s still changing lives and meeting needs. So have a drink at the Watering Hole. Jesus said, “if you drink of His water…you’ll never thirst again”. Only He, can truly satisfy the soul. So belly up to our bar.”
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Maybe the answer is yes and maybe it is no, regardless of your response, there is one fundamental truth: We all love a little recognition. There is no denying that getting a pat on the back can make us all feel accomplished. The auto scene is chock-full of influencers, public figures, wunnabees, clout chasers, millionaires, etc. I will let you in on a little secret–There is NO secret sauce to becoming famous. Yes, there are the outliers that have one video explode that puts them on the map, but the rest of us have to work diligently to build our fanbase. We have to put in hard, consistent work, just like everything else in the world, to grasp what we are chasing, whatever it may be.
hard to handle the success or failure of your posts if you are posting for clout and not for joy. I swear the posts I work the hardest on go nowhere and the posts I don’t care about get millions of views.
I will spit some facts at you. It took me 15 months and 283 high quality posts to gain 10k followers on Instagram. Like most people
IG Clothing:Youtube:TikTok@whynot_ride@whynot_rideWhyNotRidewickedsquidclothing.com
So, you want to be famous?
Social Media Fame Work Hard Play Hard
Zack is a motorcycle rider with a dream but he’s more publicly known by his social media alias @ whynot_ride. At age 26 he has collected 8 years of street riding experience on sport bikes ranging from 300cc-1000cc. His social media presence really took off collecting 55k followers on instagram and 275k on tiktok in less than 18 months. His 4k quality videos coupled with a combination of viral dances, educational videos and brand reviews quickly drew the attention of a variety of lifestyle and motorcycle brands alike.
I was incredibly frustrated that I could not get “into the algorithm” and to be honest, I am still not in the algorithm. I feel a slight amount of envy towards some other autoinfluencers who seem to have the favor of Instagram. For some reason, it seems as though everything they post gets PUMPED UP! Personally, I have had a very slow and steady incline to 106k followers, which was no easy feat. Along my way, as I was zipping through the ranks, I had to make some serious mental adjustments. It is very easy to get caught in a rut or get frustrated with the results of your posts. And there lies the issue… the result of your post. Any influencer or public figure worth their salt will tell you the mental toll it takes on you when you focus on the results of your posts. Psychologically, it’s incredibly
Sponsorships are a whole other animal. There is no special way to spearhead a path to try to secure sponsorships. The whole vibe influencers have is that they have “x” amount of followers and they expect that every company should want to work with them but it’s more than just views. Some organizations will understand your value and some will not. My first sponsorship deal was from NBT Clothing. NBT Clothing did not reach out to me because I had a following. And that is a fact, because I signed with them when I had 1,200 followers. They
Currently Whynot_ride is working with Vortex Racing, Cardo Systems, NBT Clothing, Attack Performance, New Rage Cycles, Quadlock, JW Coatings, Monster Fairings, Motivation USA, SC Project, Born Primitive, Flow and many others in the works.
For more information please see the links and handles below. Like, subscribe and follow!
When, and only when, you create content because you love to create content will you feel the rush and the joy of social media favor. When you detach emotions from
But there is a catch– no matter how correct you are, no matter how pretty you are, no matter how smart you are, social media has unleashed a playground for people to belittle you from behind a screen. People will say the most ridiculous things to you and about you just to solicit negative emotions. Many of us want to post in order to feel the dopamine rush of likes, comments and compliments. But every action has an opposite and equal reaction. If you open yourself up, publicly, for compliments and fan love then you also have to be prepared for hate and shade. The world is full of wicked and sick people just as it is filled with sweet and caring people. You will never have one without the other. To wrap it up I am going to leave you with the lyrics from a song by Oliver Tree, Freaks and Geeks (2022):
Here is another secret, if you truly want to reap the benefits of social media, you have to completely detach yourself, emotionally, from the results of your content. That is a dangerous road to go down, posting every day searching and scraping for a viral video. IF you post, which we’ve all done, for the intent to be famous or do certain things on camera in order to elicit a viral video, you are playing a heartless game. Instagram will beat you down and drag you out, emotionally. Whether you want to believe it or not the audience, intuitively, can feel the authenticity of your content. There is no better way to gain an earnest following than by being yourself and showing the world that you are human and that you are not perfect. Level with your audience. So many of us, myself included, have gone through a phase where we try to create a persona online that we think people will love, when deep down we know that it’s not who we are.
Detach yourself from posting to be famous. Post because you love to create content. Post because you love yourself. Post because you are proud of yourself. Whatever flag you are flying, LET IT FLY. There is no better feeling than showing the world who you are.
the success of a post and when you post when you want to and how you want purely for the joy of artistic freedom– THEN you will feel the euphoria you are searching for.
reached out to me because one of the owners believed in me and my abilities. For every sponsorship I have, 5 turned me down. Some of my main partnerships include Monster Fairings, Vortex Racing, KYT Helmets, Flow, New Rage Cycles and RideClutch. And for every one of those I have had 5 or more companies tell me that they don’t want to work with an influencer “like me.” Which is fine, don’t take it personally. They don’t understand your vision, yet.
“I’ve done some sinning, but I’m a savior They gonna love ya, until they hate ya I’m done with sinning but I’m still not right They’re gonna eat you up inside Don’t stop Whether you like it or not I’m a screwup, but I do it For all the freaks and the geeks and for the ones who don’t speak I’m a dumbass but people love that And they hate me as much as they show me the love”
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Sunday, we bid our lovely suite adieu and set our sights for Lincoln, NE. Monday featured a stay in West Plaines, MO. Tuesday, we enjoyed every mile to Birmingham, AL. Wednesday, we headed home via Panama City with a refreshing ride through the Panhandle. Darkness fell and I will never forget following Christy’s taillights down US 19 with no street lights--but plenty of bear crossing signs! We started at Bert’s and it was there we returned, rolling in around 10:30pm and parking our sweet machines in Bert’s Service Drive. It was time for a quick victory drink at OCC! After 4800 miles in 11 days, we were home!I can’t stress enough that if a bike trip to Sturgis or anywhere is on your bucket list, do it! Sure, hours in the seat may require some concentration and endurance, but so does a regular day at work! I recommend pack your luggage and then unpack half; bring a little money and keep a great attitude. Clear your head and plan your trip! Come see Josephine and Christy at Bert’s Barracuda for inspiration--and a new motorcycle! It’s YOUR turn for a journey. See ya out there!
you can still make good time and not get bullied by traffic. Christy found them all! Wednesday, we discovered Route 250 with no cars, no people and a few cattle. Soon the horizon offered a breathtaking reveal of the Black Hills. To the east we were surprised by a stretch of the Badlands. Our stay at Deadwood Gulch Casino was only a few hours away! Soon we rolled onto 385--a road full of twistys that lead directly into Deadwood. Our accommodations did not disappoint.
fun--the best advice for everyone. She, however, tore it up! No shame in our game! We went through the quaint little town of Hill City and stopped for lunch where we ran into more Bert’s customers! Later on we gambled a little in our casino before dinner at Saloon 10 in Deadwood.
Thursday, we spent the day in downtown Sturgis taking in sights, shopping and breathing in fresh South Dakota air. After dark, best practice is to keep the bikes parked--not my roads, cops or critters! Luckily, Deadwood offers a $2 trolley (on which we ran into Bert’s Barracuda customers!) that takes you downtown for nightlife, and we had our share with a full moon shining bright on shenanigans.Friday was a busy day!
Saturday morning featured awesome riding including Keystone with its beautiful waterfalls and more. Although we favor the back roads, jumping on I-90 is the quickest way to Black Hills HD (one of 8 dealerships we visited this trip) to meet with world renown pinstripe artist Mark Brody. He was delighted to see us! Look for him at this year’s St. Pete Bike Fest! We headed back for one last night in our beautiful resort and to pack for the rest of our adventure. The 4 nights in Deadwood were booked months in advance. But keep in mind that throughout our journey we made reservations each morning for that night’s stay. This enabled us to change our minds if needed to due to weather, whims, etc. Christy led with a combination of feminine intuition and google maps and did a great job! We dodged rain and scouted roads for fast travel with endless scenery and few vehicles. Fuel stops offered the opportunity to chat with riders from all over headed to and from the Rally. Locals were curious about the two ladies on bikes but always polite. Every day we stayed cheerful and grateful; it was hard not to!
Mount Rushmore is a must and never disappoints. Entering Custer State Park, we rounded a corner to suddenly find ourselves within 15 feet of a lone buffalo. We stopped. He stopped. He huffed and puffed and stomped his buffalo feet before plopping down to rest with a heavy sigh. He was a good boy. Just call us the buffalo whisperers! Later in the day I found myself on Iron Mountain and it wasn’t nearly as gnarly as I imagined. I did, however, decline Needles Highway. As Christy says, “Girl, ride your ride!”. In other words, do what makes you comfortable and have
Most vacations center on the destination, while others reflect a real journey. Thanks to The Fran Haasch Law Group and Bert’s Barracuda Harley Davidson, we were invited to attend the annual Sturgis Rally in South Dakota! On past trips with Stiletto on Steel sisters, my chrome buffalo was safely shipped while I followed in flight. I’m inspired by my Bike Sales customers who share stories of their long-distance trips so I decided to RIDE! Bert’s Inventory Manager, Christy Hollstein, has ridden cross country twice and she was totally down for it! This year’s trip to Sturgis would be about the journey.
To get a head start we left after work on Saturday wearing our new HD rain suits (thanks Bert!) and made it to Perry, FL. Try Mama Italian if you’re ever up there; it’s great! Sunday, we burned over 600 miles to Southaven, MS where we enjoyed wine and any damn thing we wanted on the menu. Monday, we powered 500 plus miles on to Carthage, MO and we took a weird cab ride to local favorite Habaneros, home of authentic Mexican food and lethal margaritas. Tuesday was an effortless run up thru the center of Kansas into Kearney, Nebraska. Each day we stayed the course, enjoying every minute and rewarding our efforts with a good meal and sound sleep. We caught a little downpour, experienced some hairy interstate traffic and my duffel bag even flew off at 80mph, but nothing could faze us. We were ready for anything the universe sent our way. Our country is gorgeous with many alternate routes where
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