Letter from Rick
It's been an excellent year for Stories From the Road! In 2019 Stories From the Road has seen a few changes such as...
My amateur photographer status is enhanced with guidance from Victoria of MinT Photography. This old dog is learning digital photography. Maybe you can teach an old dog new tricks! Thank you, Vici!
My first exposure to actually have a photoshoot with some real models. A shout out to Jeni Okasaki, Lynda Von Lotta, and Vici Amanti for sharing your beauty with Stories From the Road!
A new product line for Stories From the Road. A port authority stocking cap with my logo on the front! It's the warmest cap I've ever worn!
In this issue, I'm telling the story of Sassy's passion for the Epworth Children's Home and how Bikers of South Carolina is helping.
Last but now least, in Reflections, I introduce a few cousins that played a huge part in my growing up in rural Virginia. Also, I acknowledge those who influenced my travels, experiences, and were great friends during 2019.
Most of all, though, I'm thankful for my readers who follow me on my travels. I love telling my stories and hope you enjoy them.
I’m looking for your story! If you have a story you’d like to share in my magazine, contact me via my email. I’d be glad to check it out and use it!
On the Cover
Suzanne ‘Sassy’ Groff - President of Bikers of South Carolina organized a December ride to the Epworth Children’s Home in Columbia, SC. She has a passion for these children and this is her 7th year organizing this event.
Ride Safe
Welcometoanewyear.Atimefornewbeginnings.A‘starting’pointtomeasuremy achievementsorfailuresforthecoming year.Mywishfor2020isthatnoonewill losetheirliferidingamotorcycle.Justas lastyear,Iwillcontinueincludingavideo thatwillshowushowcrashesoccurand why.I’llusetwoprimarysources.Kevenof McRiderandDanDantheFireman.Bothof theseguysareveryknowledgeableintheir respectivefields.
Istart2020offwithaseriousmessagethat willeitherupsetyouorgiveyousomeideas onhowtoimproveyourchancesofliving whileridingamotorcycle.Thatlaststatementsoundsominous.Frankly,it’smoreaccuratethanyoumightthink.Motorcycle ridersare 27timesmorelikelytobeinan accidentthanmotorists.That’sright,27 timesmorelikely.Icanhearthebikermassesshoutingattheirmonitornowsaying‘If thatmother*&^%^rcagerhadbeenpaying attentionhewouldhaveseenme!’Yeah,I’ve saidthatonoccasionmyself.
Butguesswhat,it’stimewetookresponsibilityforoursafetyandsurvivalonthe road.Sure,therewillbethosetimesyou, thebiker,didn’tdoanythingwrong,anda cagerengagingindistracteddrivingwilldo somethingstupidandhityou.Thebottom lineisifyouhaveawife,daughter,son, mother,orfather,takeridingsafelyandresponsiblyseriously.Inonemoment,alife canbechangedtragicallyforever.
I’vebeenintwoaccidentsmyself.One,I
don’tnecessarilyclaimtohavebeenatfault. AlthoughtheStateTrooperdid.Theother wasmyfaultentirelybynotridingsafely andresponsibly.
Sowiththatsaid,I’mstartingtheyearoff withamessagefromDanDanthefireman. It’sratherlong,sopleaselistentotheend. He’spassionateaboutnoonedyingwhile ridingamotorcycle.SoamI.
Pleaseridesafelyandresponsibly!
Click on Icon below to start the video
No Motorcyclist Or Coach Is Talking About This Enough & It's Ridiculous - After The Ride 007
Fuzzy’s Taco Shop
One of the perks of my part-time job is I get to drive many different new model cars all over SC and GA. On one of those trips, we were driving from Savannah, GA, after delivering some vehicles to the Savannah / Hilton Head International Airport. The lead driver mentioned this new restaurant that had just opened on Exit
8 on I-95 call Fuzzy's Taco Shop. So we all decided it was time for a diversion from the typical fast-food fare.
On the menu was a full range of tacos and burritos, plus larger dinner dishes from enchiladas to fajitas. I can best describe the flavor of my food as a blend of coastal Baja tacos with the goodness of authentic Tex-Mex cuisine.
Well, no surprise here since Fuzzy's Taco Shop is based in Fort Worth, Texas.
You don't have to run for the border to enjoy genuine Tex-Mex cuisine! Just a short distance from exit 8 at Hardeeville, SC.
Fuzzy’s Taco Shop 448 Independence Blvd
Hardeeville, SC (843) 784-3899
Fajita Chicken Burrito Bowl
Fajita chicken, lettuce, cilantro-lime rice, black beans, guacamole, pico de gallo, shredded cheese, and cilantro topped with fire-roasted salsa.
Fajita Beef Burrito Bowl
Fajita beef, lettuce, cilantro-lime rice, black beans, guacamole, pico de gallo, shredded cheese, and cilantro topped with spicy chimichurri sauce.
Fajita Veggies Burrito Bowl
Fajita veggies, lettuce, cilantro-lime rice, black beans, guacamole, pico de gallo, shredded cheese, and cilantro topped with spicy chimichurri sauce.
Special Ground Beef Nachos
Fresh tortilla chips topped with special ground beef, shredded cheese, queso, feta, pico de gallo, and garlic sauce. But wait! There’s more! Click on the pictures to see more mouth watering options!
There is SO MUCH more on Fuzzy’s Menu than I can begin to show here. So, why not click on the tacos above and see all that Fuzzy’s Taco Shop has to offer. You won’t leave there hungry. If you do, it ‘ain’t’ their fault!
Bikers of SC
7th Annual Epworth Children’s Home Ride
Bikers of South Carolina’s Christmas ride to the Epworth Children’s Home Ride has been one of their most beloved events.
Bikers of South Carolina is not an MC, RC, or an association and should never be confused as such. Bikers of South Carolina is an organization in the Midlands; representing the bike community as a whole. It is owned and operated by Suzanne ‘Sassy’ Groff.
Epworth Children’s Home
The Epworth Children's Home was established in 1865 by the South Carolina Annual Conference.
( Referenced today as the United Methodist Church)
Formerly known as the Epworth Orphanage, it is located on 32 acres of land in the center of Columbia, South Carolina. Children are sent to Epworth by private or government agencies as the result of abuse, neglect, or significant loss. Eighty percent of Epworth's general operating budget is supported by congregations, individuals, and businesses. Sassy, president and owner of Bikers of South Carolina, has supported the
Epworth's Children's Home every Christmas for 7 years. This year's event raised almost 3600 dollars for the home, something Sassy is very proud that the biker community has done.
I participated in this year's event and had a chance to chat with Sassy during lunch after the event.
Click on the Epworth picture below to watch a brief video about Epworth
Sassy - president of Bikers of South Carolina
Sassy, aka Suzanne Groff, is the President and owner of Bikers of South Carolina. I first met Sassy at Buffalo Wild Wings on Two Notch road. I was invited to a bike night there by a CDL instructor named Fred. My first encounter with Sassy resulted in me becoming as Admin for BOSC, but after a year as an admin, I wanted to try my hand at writing and joined Carolina Chrome. After about 2 or 3 years of writing for Chrome, I decided I wanted to do my own thing and created the present day Stories From the Road. But more on that at a different time.
Back to Sassy and BOSC. Each year, Sassy and BOSC organize a ride to Epworth Children’s Home where gift
cards, toys, and other things are donated for the children. I attended this years ride and had a chance to get reacquainted with Sassy during lunch of the ride. During our conversation, her passion for helping these children was quite evident.
SFTR - Thank you Sassy for sharing time with me over lunch! It’s been a long time and participating in this event is one of my favorites during the year. To jog this ‘old’ man’s memory, how did you get involved with motorcycles and BOSC?
Sassy - I was not raised around motorcycles at all. My husband Travis Groff, was. He introduced me to motorcycles when we met in 2004. I gained a love and respect for the biker community through sharing experiences with him during his journeys in the MC world. That is how I was introduced to Bikers of South Carolina.
STFR - Well you could have fooled me about not being involved with motorcycles in your early years! You’re well known and respected in the biker community. You are the President and owner of BOSC, how did this organization come to be?
Sassy - Bikers of South Carolina was founded by Kyle Lindsey. Kyle had an ambitious dream of creating an organization for the independent biker to experience some of the (next page)
(continued from previous page)
MC community through fellowship of other like minded independent bikers. Hence was the beginning of Sunday rides and bike nights. Additionally, a Facebook page was created and used as a portal of communication to keep those bikers informed of events and news within the biker community. Bikers of South Carolina also held several charity events in the biker community for those in need.
STFR - That’s some vision. So, is BOSC considered to be associated with an MC’s, RC’s, or any other form of motorcycle organizations?
Sassy - Bikers of South Carolina is not an MC, RC, or an association and should never be confused as such.
Bikers of South Carolina is an organization in the Midlands; representing the bike community as a whole. It is owned and operated by myself.
STFR - What then, is BOSC’s mission statement as an independent biker organization?
Sassy - The mission of BOSC is to keep the bike community informed of all things biker related; events, causes, and legislation.
STFR - One of the things that drew me to you and BOSC is your love for charities. I have a heart for charities as well, but not as gifted in organizing events to help them as you are. One
such charity event is the Epworth Children’s Home. What draws you to want to help these children?
Sassy - Several reasons; my grandparents retired as foster parents for GA Baptist Children’s home in GA. They raised hundreds of kids in their tenure there. I was a resident of a foster home due to an unfortunate situation when I was a little girl. However, last but never least, my heart always hurts for these kids as I’m able to relate to them through my own experiences as a child.
SFTR - What a compelling story and how you’re taking your experiences and using them to help others with similar needs. That touches my heart too. How many years has BOSC held this event?
Sassy - This was the seventh year of supporting Epworth’s Children’s Home.
SFTR - That’s quite a run. Of all the Epworth Children’s Home events, which one was your favorite?
Sassy - This year would be my favorite year at Epworth’s. This year we had over 75 bikes participating in the ride. We raised almost $3,600.00 in gift cards for the kids! The staff at
Epworth’s made it a point to cook enough Christmas dinner for the kids and bikers this year which was completely unexpected and greatly appreciated!!
STFR - I have to say, I’ve ridden in many of these events rides and I have to agree, this was one of my favorites as well. Do you, at some point, see an end to the support for the Epworth Children’s Home or possibly an end to BOSC?
Sassy - I can’t say that I do. I will continue to push for the bike community to support those less fortunate than ourselves… kids and vets especially! Bikers of South Carolina may not be a huge organization, but I am proud of the over 10,700 followers it has and the fact that it continues to leave a positive footprint in the bike community… and I will continue to do that as long as I am physically able.
SFTR - I for one admire you and your dedication for the children, vets, and the biker community at large. I’m honored to be a friend. Thank you SO MUCH for sharing your thoughts with Stories From the Road. I look forward to 2020 and even more association with Bikers of South Carolina and it’s mission for the biker community!
After our conversation, I offered to support the Bikers of South Carolina page and post any events that I know about. I’ll do my best to keep close to BOSC’s mission statement. However, I do tend to stray in topics here and there. So please forgive me if I do.
If you have not visited the BOSC Facebook page, check it our and ‘like’ it to keep informed on events, legislation and other biker related interest.
SFTR wishes you a very Happy New Year!
Most of all, Ride Safe, Ride Often!
We raised almost $3,600.00 in gift cards for the kids!
Reflections
From 2019
Mom
Reflections
- a time to reflect on family, people, and places
of 2019.
There were a few ’first’ in 2019. My association with Vici of MinT Photography resulted in my attendance of a photographer/model collaboration. It definitely got me out of my comfort zone. It offered me an opportunity to meet some professional photographers and models.
Also, in this iteration of ’Reflections,’ I’m sharing my family and relatives that were a big part of growing up in rural Virginia. Also, being shared are a few friends that have been part of my adventures in 2019. We all have friends or loved ones who have gone on to their heavenly home. I want to dedicate the following pages to those people who have given my life joy and helped me remain on a path that is right for me.
Married since September 23, 1987
Susan Wight Hood
I met Susan on January 23rd, 1986, in Louisville, Ky airport. We were both headed to Charlottesville, Va, to see a friend. At that time, I was an amateur photographer. I was toting a big camera bag on my shoulder, and some carry on luggage. After landing at National Airport in Washington, DC, I had to make my way to the commuter terminal. I stopped to ask the ‘red coat Delta employee’ how to get there. With his directions, I went on my way. Shortly afterward, Susan asks the same man for guidance, and he said, see that guy there, follow him. She has been ever since.
Vickie Hood
Any state park in Florida
My younger sister, Vickie, is what I describe as a free spirit who doesn’t take S*&t’ from anyone. She’ll say that herself. One thing I will say about her, she has a heart the size of Texas!. Her heart is also passionate about life and friends but will dump toxic people and never look back.
She and her friend/travel companion
Val recently sold everything they had. They bought a 40’ fifth wheel camper and a 3500 Dodge Ram Duelie’ to pull it with and is currently residing at ran-
dom state parks in Florida!
They, having recently returned from a cruise, can honestly say had a blast, and all I got was a t-shirt. LOL Just kidding, Vickie!
Emily ’Emilie’ Hood
My one and only daughter, Emily, was one of the joys of my heart when she arrived in 1990. She won’t admit it, but she’s more like me than she thinks. But not to take away from her free spirit and strong will. Emily has made me proud even during our times of trouble. Emily is currently a Pharmacy Technician and is currently enrolled in college to become a Pharmacist. (oh...the glasses are a filter in Snap Chat)
Carolyn W West
This was the only picture of Carolyn I have. She’s the short one. (I can say that because I’m short too...Love ya mean it) Terri is one of her daughters, but this blurb is for Carolyn. Like Gail, Carolyn, to me anyway, was another voice of reason. (I can hear her laughing now) There were so many great times with her in the front yard playing softball and playing Uno! Another cousin I will be checking in on in 2020. Her daughter Terri is the proprietor of Barreled of Charlotte. If you’re in the neighborhood, check out her place!
Barreled of Charlotte
Kay W Comer
What can I say about Kay? I call Kay the ‘Peace Maker’ I remember fights that my sister Vickie and Kay’s sister Shelia would have. They could be tearing each other hair out, but Kay would step in and break it up for ‘peace sake. There were great times playing softball in their yard too. We were quite the competitive bunch. She is a great friend and cousin, and I look forward to seeing more of her in 2020!
Gail W Nelson
Gail, the firstborn of the 4 sisters, was the voice of reason. Well, as far as I remember anyway. My memories of Gail is mostly of her high school years, and the boyfriends she knew. Two of those boyfriends, one of them she
married, was Dillard and Eugene (or Gene). Gene was the guy I liked the most because he had one of the first Pontiac GTO’s that came out in 1965. It was a pretty green with an all-black interior with a Hurst shifter that had a
white round ball for a shifter knob. Oh, I’m supposed to be talking about Gail. Sorry, I think Gail took me along on dates with Gene initially to give her Dad a little peace of mind. .
The ‘Whitlow Girls’
I remember this day like it happened yesterday. This picture is actually a couple of years old taken in a quaint little Gift and Sandwich Shop in South Boston, Va. During one of my travels on BJ to South Boston, I
managed to hook up with Kay. She suggested it would be fun for all of us meet for lunch and ‘catch up.’ I thought that was an excellent idea, and Kay made it happen. This was one of the most extraordinary days I had in a long time. It had been a long time since I laughed that much. Looking forward to doing it again! From left to right - Gail, Carolyn, and Kay
Influencers and Friends
During my lifetime, there have been many people who have influenced me in some way. Some were good, and some were not so good. But I never regretted meeting them and having them in my life for a season. Some were to guide me while others were to teach me. I’ll even go as far as to say I was to guide/teach them as well. The following pages are an abbreviated list of the MANY people that have been in my life at some point in time. I will always cherish those times.
Gone But not Forgotten
Remembering those who have gone on
The older I get, it’s inevitable that friends will pass away. But some were taken away too soon. I would like to remember them here. Gone but not forgotten.
In My Life
The Beatles
There are places I remember All my life though some have changed Some forever not for better Some have gone and some remain All these places have their moments With lovers and friends I still can recall Some are dead and some are living In my life I've loved them all
But of all these friends and lovers There is no one compares with you
And these memories lose their meaning When I think of love as something new Though I know I'll never lose affection
For people and things that went before I know I'll often stop and think about them
In my life I love you more
Though I know I'll never lose affection
For people and things that went before I know I'll often stop and think about them
In my life I love you more
William ‘Bill’ Wilkins
Bill was a lifelong friend. I can’t remember a time that I didn’t know him. Although he was 3 years older than me, by the time I was 18, we were pretty much together most of the time riding motorcycles or camping in the mountains. You’re are missed. I’ll see you again some day.
Vicky Corbett
Although I didn’t know Vicky for that long, she had the ability to make anyone feel as if they had known her a lifetime. I know I certainly did. Sitting on her patio and discussing philosophical things was one of the things I enjoyed the most. She was a joy to be around! I miss you Vicky.
Todd Harvey
Todd was one of those guys that always had the time to talk to you. Even if he was working in the shop, he would be chatting and going about his business. I made it a point to go by his shop, Big Boys Motorcycle, and sit a while and chat. I think he enjoyed the company. For one, I know I did. Miss ya man!
In My Opinion
Rick’s thoughts on just about anything
So, 2019 is a thing of the past. Watch out 2020, here I come! Yeah, yeah. I’m gonna make a big splash during the coming year!. Most likely, it will only be in a swimming pool. Oh wait, I don’t have a swimming pool. Anyway, there will be few changes to be made, and I BELIEVE, I said, I BELIEVE it will happen.
First of all, I’m going to do more riding. Key West, I WILL be there this year. The content in my magazine WILL be entertaining AND informative! I will be TRUE to myself and what I WANT to achieve.
So why all the capitalized words you might be thinking or not? I heard on TV this morning that don’t make puny New Year resolutions because they tend to be dropped or not pursued at all. Instead, think BIG or GO HOME! Yeah! That’s what I’m talking about! If you can’t GO BIG, GO HOME!. So, what does that really mean? I’m not sure either, but I’m GOING TO DO IT!
Wow, if capitalizing a few words makes my dreams come true, maybe I should go for more dreams! We’ll see, time will tell. But in the meantime, I’ll cherish my friends, lose the toxic ones, and be kind to strangers.
I’ll volunteer for at least one charity this year, maybe two if they are worth
-while ones.
I’ll share more time with family, near and far away. My mother, 99 years old, is a blessing, and I will take her to Virginia to visit what friends that may still be living and visit the old homestead. We’ll visit anything else that she deems essential in her life.
Whew! That’s quite a list, and I’m sure it will grow.
So with all this said, I’d like to wish everyone a very HAPPY and PROSPEROUS year.
*PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT*
If you see a motorcyclist moving from left to center to right in the same lane....they're not drunk or high. They are finding the best position to ride in based on many circumstances that constantly change. That manhole cover? That oil spot? That small puddle? That asphalt repair patch? The grass somebody mowed out into the street? Those things mean nothing to you in a car or truck but can be a life threatening hazard to a motorcyclist. And they are putting themselves in the most visible position to the cars around them, which changes!
When a motorcyclist suddenly speeds up, goes past you and then slows down? They're not signaling that they want to race you...they're trying to stay out of your blind spot.
I know there are some motorcyclists who ride like idiots (just as there are idiots in cars and trucks). They're out there and they make others look bad. But one thing we all want is to make it home alive. Vehicles are much bigger than motorcycles. Please keep that in mind. And please PUT YOUR PHONE DOWN and LOOK more than once.
P.S. Please USE YOUR TURN SIGNALS for lane changes and turns!
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