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TR T RMI MI M AR A ARCH RC CH H 2020 200220 - 3 TRMI MARCH
Can you believe that the he 22020 0 0 ri 02 rriding rid idi dingg ding season is so damn closee no nnow ow th tthat hat at iitt hurts? We have been rrolling oollli ling ngg aalong long long lo ng through winter, moving g ssnow, noow w,, dealing with ice and cold, o d, ol d w with itth a warm teaser day heree aand ndd there, but trudging through oug u h it just the same. Hell, we even had the furry little rat forecast an early spring, so let’s have at it! Let’s get the bikes out, get the roads washed off, and an nd start rolling and racking ng up the miles. It is shaping p nngg pi up to be a great year wi with ith h tons of events already oon n the TRMI Event List on the back cover. The only thing better than that list would be for everyone hosting or knowing about a confirmed event to email it to me at Vernon@thunderroadsiowa.com I need your help to keep the list as complete and comprehensive as possible. If you could email the date, name of event, and starting location town, I will get your events added to the list. I also post the upcoming list on our Thunder Roads Magazine of Iowa Facebook page the first of every week, so that is where you can find the most up to date list even after the magazine is in your hands. Another thing that we are looking to get updated for the upcoming riding season is the Thunder Roads Magazine of Iowa Bike Night Listing. We have heard from a few that are confirmed for this year, but we also are going to be reaching out to the remainder of past bike night hosts to confirm their 2020 bike nights. The TRMI Events List runs on the back cover or inside back cover all year round, but the bike night list only runs during the heart of the riding season for April through September issues. If you are hosting a bike night this coming year, or know of your favorite hangout doing a bike night, let us know. We are asking for your help so that we can continue to maintain the most comprehensive list available. Email the bike night information to Vernon@thunderroadsiowa.com. We appreciate the help! We have had some really great shows here lately, as it is about the only thing shakin’ in the biker world in the winter
months. It is always great to be able to see old friends, meet new friends, and be able to chat with riders from all over Iowa at these winter time events. We always have our latest issue with us and keep some past issues to have available for those that may have missed an issue in the past few months here or there. We love to hear from the folks that “read it cover to cover every month”! We even get some great ideas for new content and even some leads from folks that want to see TRMI at their favorite dealerships, shops, and hangouts. Everyone that is involved in the Iowa biker life is riding on this bus, we just happen to be the bus drivers. We love to hear from the passengers, so never be afraid to reach out and let us know what you want to see and where the magazine should be available. If you simply want the magazine delivered ever month to your door or post office, a subscription is always an option. Toward the back of every magazine there is a subscription form that you can fill out and mail in a check or money order to get your subscription going. You can also go to our website thunderroadsiowa.com and order a subscription there using a card. To get a subscription is $36 for a year, which essentially just pays for the postage and envelope each month. This is just another option to getting a hard copy in your hands, or you can also read it online from the links on the TRMI Facebook page or the website. Thanks one and all for supporting us, for reading our pages, and for being a part of the Iowa biker world! Get on and ride! Vernon Quote of the Month: “Ours may become the first civilization destroyed, not by the power of our enemies, but by the ignorance of our teachers and the dangerous nonsense they are teaching our children. In an age of artificial intelligence, they are creating artificial stupidity.” Thomas Sowell
On the Cover
This month’s cover features Anna, beautifully captured by Iowa native Mark Fountain. Mark captured the gorgeous curves of Anna and this 1980 H-D FXE Super Glide that was meticulously rebuilt by Conrad Mizzell and Conrad Mizzell Sr. What started off as a stock FXE in pretty fair condition evolved over a yearlong project into “Blue Girl” as you see her pictured here, in all her Kamen Blue Metal Flake glory. 4 - TRMI MARCH 2020
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TRMI TR MI M AR RCH CH 2020 202 020 - 5 TRMI MARCH
A lot of people think we experience four seasons living in Iowa, but that’s not the case in my life. I have more like three. Ride season, hunting season and getready-for-ride season. Two of the three are too short and one is way too long. Unfortunately the long one, get- readyfor-ride season, gets a bunch of other things jammed into it, kind of like my office or workshop when Karla is home cleaning. If I happen to set anything down on the table and if I’m not touching it or tethered to it she swoops in, grabs the offending item and, throws it in my office or workshop and slams the door. My spaces tend to become similar to what you see on the hoarders show with a path snaking through to my bench where I prop myself up on a milk crate that teeters on top of the cat box in order to work. Obviously, not my fault. I think the jammed- in activities kind of snowball and mysteriously reproduce during this season mainly because when I’m in the workshop or the garage it’s harder to get away and the wife can sneak up and catch me. Then it’s off to fix the sink, go to the grocery store, the car’s making that funny sound and shutting off when she goes around the corner again etc., etc. You guys all know - trivial stuff. If she’s not paying attention I can sometimes grab the dog as I am sent “to the store for groceries”. Then it becomes an adventure and the escape usually ends up with a quick side trip to the cabin. Before we know it the dog and I are caught up in burning, shooting, blowing up things and at least one of us running wild in the woods like his tail was on fire. When it’s cold we go in and stoke the wood burner to capacity before going outside to do all those important chore things. Doesn’t take long to burn through all the ammo and my energy, of course, and by that time it’s about 110 degrees inside the cabin. What usually happens then reminds me of the Far Side cartoon that showed “Manly men doing manly things”. It’s so unbearably hot that we end up sitting around in our under wear dipping pop tarts in cheese whiz while watching TV, in between naps. The hours tend to get away from a person. Must be the short days. It’s then time to make sure the fire is out and give the dog one last tear around the pond. While packing up and watching him eat rabbit poop, dig up the azaleas and rip up the ornamental grass, it crossed my mind as to all the pruning and cutting I need to do before growing season gets here. The trees and bushes all need attention. It always looks and feels like we are killing the plants and butchering the trees when we do all that but ultimately it keeps them healthy and produces more growth or fruit. Sadly, that’s the way it is in our lives also. Whether it’s the Lord or an enemy cutting away at us, God uses the process for our good. Just like with the plant pruning, it enables us to grow and produce more good things.
during the process. God says to abide in Him and we will produce much fruit. We have to decide: Do we truly trust that his ways are not our ways and that his ways are higher? Will we trust that he is the master gardener and rest in the assurances we have in him through Jesus? We have the opportunity to praise him and be faithful or to not and be frustrated. The Bible says that the mind controlled by the Spirit has life and peace. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your understanding: in all your ways submit to him and he will make your paths straight. I’ve also come to the conclusion that except for the rabbit poop consumption, my dog and I are pretty much kindred spirits. Now if he could just remind me about the grocery store on the way home, and I can figure out a good answer when Karla wants to know why it looks like the he has cheese whiz on his head. Blessings and we will see you at the swap meets. - Mark Mark and Karla Cornick are with the Christian Motorcyclists Association. Find out more about CMA and God’s plan for you at www.cmausa.org
Pruning hurts. Most times we don’t understand or like the loss, especially when we are currently seeing a lot of good things or producing much fruit. It’s something we all have to endure and we should desire to become better, not bitter 6 - TRMI MARCH 2020
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The Biker Friendly Business Directory is a list of establishments throughout Iowa that sponsor the magazine. You can pick up your copy here every month. Let them know that you saw them in TRMI. If your business would like to advertise in Thunder Roads Iowa Biker Friendly Business Listing and become a part of the network, please email vernon@thunderroadsiowa.com
Biker Accessories Coolbikerstuff @ The Old Bait Shop 2103 Okoboji Ave MILFORD, Iowa 51351 712.338.8888 & 214.914.4555 Crispy’s Biker Apparel 1701 C Street SW Cedar Rapids, Iowa Find Us On Facebook
Dealers Baxter Cycle 311 4th Street Marne, Iowa 51552 712-781-2351 www.baxtercycle.com Big Barn Harley-Davidson 81 NW 49th Place Des Moines, Iowa 50313 515-265-4444 www.bigbarnhd.net Carroll Cycle Center 1327 Plaza Dr Carroll, Iowa 712-792-1610 www.carrollcycle.com Edwards Motorsports and RV’s 1010 34th Avenue Council Bluffs, Iowa 51501 712-366-8400 fullthrottleia.com or edwardsrvs.com
Indian Motorcycle of Des Moines 1500 E Army Post Road Des Moines, Iowa 50315 515-256-9062 Indianmotorcycleofdesmoines.com
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Indian Motorcycle of Mason City Mason City Powersports 12499 265th Street Mason City 641-423-3181 Masoncitypowersportsinc.com
Okoboji Classic Cars Museum and Restoration Shop 810 Jeppeson Road West Okoboji, Iowa 51351 712-332-8029
Flat Tire Lounge 304 S Madison Madrid 515-795-4174 Outdoor Patios – Happy Hour 3-9 Flat Tire Lounge on Facebook
Loess Hills Harley-Davidson 57408 190th Street Pacific Junction IA 51561 712-800-3500 loesshillshd.com
(Popular Poker & Fun Run Locations)
Grinnell Pub 909 State Street Grinnell, Iowa 50112 641-260-8003 Grinpub@aol.com
Metro Harley-Davidson 2415 Westdale Drive SW Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52404 319-362-9496 www.metro-motorsports.com
American Legion Post 111 1101 W 4th Street S Newton 641-792-3353 Open to the Public 7 Days a Week Newtonamericanlegion111.org
Goozman’s Westside Bar & Grill 1019 7th St Harlan, Iowa 712-755-2259 Goozman’s Westside on Facebook
Nishna Valley Cycle HONDA – YAMAHA – KTM Atlantic, Iowa 50022 1-888-577-6406 www.nishnavalleycycle.com
Big Daddy’s 506 W Main Street Lewis, Iowa 51544 M,W,TH,F 4PM-*, Sat-Sun Noon-* Zipp’s Pizza & Big Patio!
Haverhill Social Club 202 1st Street Haverhill, Iowa 50120 641-475-3321 Tues-Sat 10-2, Sun 12-12
Route 65 Harley-Davidson 1300 S Jefferson Way Indianola, Iowa 50125 515.962.2160 www.route65hd.net
Bloodline Irish Pub 214 Public Square Greenfield, Iowa 50849 Bloodline Irish Pub on Facebook
Iowa Legendary Rye 707 N Main Street Carroll, Iowa 51401 Iowalegendaryrye.com
Bullys’ Angle Inn 505 US 151 Walford, Iowa 52351 10am-12am Check Us Out on FB
J.R. Willie’s Gateway to the Beautiful Hill Country Colesburg, IA 563-856-5095 Open Daily Mon-Sun 11AM Home of the Willie Whopper
Catfish Charlie’s On the Mississippi River 1630 E. 16th Street Dubuque, IA 52001 (563)582-8600 www.CatfishCharliesDubuque.com
Johnie’s Tap 112 NE 2nd Street Stuart, Iowa 50250 515-523-1146 Mon-Sat 9:00 AM-Close
Desperados 105 E 5th Street Atlantic 712-243-7087 Home of Cold Beer, Good Times, Pizza & Wings
Just 1 More 515-570-4206 641-757-0159 309 Railway Jamaica, Iowa 50128
Firehouse Bar 1211 5th Street Downtown Sioux City, IA 712-224-1020 Open Daily at 12:00
KC’s Tavern 120 N Main Street Bridgewater, Iowa 50837 Mon-Fri 4:30-Close, Sat-Sun 1-Close Find Us on FB 641-369-2017
Flaming Office 201 W High Street Toledo 641-484-2255 Outdoor Patio, Happy Hour 5-7 Flaming Office on Facebook & Google
Knickers Saloon 2186 Central Avenue Dubuque, Iowa 52001 563-557-0887 365 Days a Year Knickers Saloon on Facebook
Food and Drink
Storm Lake Honda 3040 Expansion Blvd Storm Lake, Iowa 50588 StormLakeHonda.com 712-732-2460 Zylstra Harley-Davidson 1930 E 13th Street Ames, Iowa 50010 515-232-6223 zylstrahd.com
Entertainment Book Em Dano’s 33 S Main Street Denison, Iowa 51442 712-263-9818 Mon-Sat 4-2 Dancers Nightly 5-1:30 Celebrations DJ & Karaoke Services Newton, IA 641-521-8036 Any Occasion /Rally or Event EmCee Facebook/Ray Johansen(Celebrations) Specializing in Weddings & Receptions National Motorcycle Museum 102 Chamber Drive Anamosa, Iowa 52205 319-462-3925 Nationalmcmuseum.org
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McCanns Tap NE 14th & 54th Des Moines, Iowa 50313 Bike Parking M-F 2:00 Sat & Sun 11:00
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Mi Casa Family Restaurant 512 Market Street Harlan, Iowa 51537 712-755-2258 Enjoy Drinks at the Full Bar!
Roadhouse 105 Washington Marne, Iowa 51552 712-781-2272 Home of the Marne Burger
The Buck Snort Harlan 3002 23rd Street Harlan, Iowa 51537 712-235-2825 The Buck Snort Harlan on Facebook
Twisted Corn Tavern 1405 Walnut Street Dallas Center, Iowa 50063 515-992-3868 Twisted Corn Tavern on Facebook
Midway Tavern 206 1st Street Soldier, Iowa 712-884-2230 www.midwaytavernsoldier.com
Rumors Bar & Grill 400 F Ave Cedar Rapids, IA Live Music & Food 319-286-0806
The Buck Snort Oakland 310 Dr Van Zee Road Oakland, Iowa 51560 712-355-5315 The Buck Snort Oakland on FB
Vic’s Main Tap 304 Broadway Audubon, Iowa 50025 712-563-2122 Opens Sun-Fri 2:30, Sat 9:30
Montgomery Street Pub 207 East Montgomery Street Creston, Iowa 50801 641-782-2165
Sandbar 103 North Noyes Street Mondamin, Iowa 51557 712-646-2300 Facebook Sandbar Mondamin
The Buck Snort Red Oak 322 E Coolbaugh Street Red Oak, Iowa 51566 712-357-1701 The Buck Snort Red Oak on Facebook
Whatcha Smokin? BBQ+Brew 403 Iowa Avenue Luther, Iowa 50152 515-257-7490 Tuesday-Sunday
Sidetracked 206 West Union Street Creston, Iowa 50801 641-782-8534
The Exchange 171 S Elm Street Avoca, Iowa 51521 712-343-2609 Lang’s Pizza, Cold Beer, Sports
Wild Hogs Saloon & Eatery 350 Commercial Drive Walford, Iowa 52351 Open 11:00 Every Day Check Us Out on Facebook
The Full Nelson 205 West 2nd Street Halbur, Iowa 51444 712-658-2425 The Full Nelson on Facebook
Wilson’s Tap and Recreation 1008 Story Street Boone, Iowa 50036/ 515-433-1395
Old Timer Tavern 401 S Center Street Marshalltown Mon-Sat 6am-2am, Sun 12pm-2am Outdoor Patio-Live Entertainment 641-753-9854 and Facebook Papa Joe’s 117 South 6th Street Missouri Valley, Iowa 51555 712-642-9015 Pearl Street Social Club 110 Pearl Street SW Shellsburg, Iowa 52332 319-436-7100 Find Us On Facebook!
Sportsman Bar & Grill 103 1st Street Pisgah, Iowa 51564 712-456-2222 FOOD, FUEL, FUN Stumpy’s Bar & Grill 423 Main Street Duncombe, Iowa 50532 515-543-4222 Stumpy’s Bar & Grill on Facebook
Pines Steakhouse Oinkers Lounge & Grill
1500 E 7th Street Atlantic, Iowa 50022 712-243-3606 M-F 11AM-, S-S 4PMPolk City Pub 217 W Broadway Polk City, Iowa 50226 515-984-9388 Open @ 11:00AM / Closed Mon. Ralph’s Moorland Tap 508 Front Street Moorland, Iowa 515-549-9702 Here For the Beer! Red Oak Tap 419 E. Reed Red Oak, Iowa 51566 712-623-4788 Riverside Tavern 450 E Main St Lehigh, Iowa 50557 515-359-9998 Email:riversidetap@gmail.com
Sugar’s Diner & Lounge 2725 E Kanesville Blvd Council Bluffs, Iowa 712-322-3600 Check us out on Facebook T.J.’s Pourhouse 100 E. Washington Street Exira, Iowa 50076 712-268-2353 Open M-SAT.@11, SUN.@ NOON The Buck Snort Restaurant & Sports Bar 25 Scott Street Council Bluffs, Iowa 51503 712-328-2825 TheBuckSnortrestaurantandsportsbaronFB The Buck Snort Glenwood 419 Sharp Street Glenwood, Iowa 51534 712-520-6454 Buck Snort Glenwood on Facebook
The Pastime Lounge 114 S 4th Street Cherokee, Iowa 51012 712-225-0219 Facebook/Patio/Food The Place2B! 116 N. Federal Ave Mason City, IA 50401 M-F 3p-2a S-S 2p-2a Find Us On Facebook The Yankee Clipper 312 SW Maple St Ankeny, Ia 50023 515-964-9484 yankeeclipperbar.com The Station Grub & Suds 205 W Kimball Street Hancock, Iowa 51536 712-741-2337 Come Party on the Patio! Tobey Jacks Mineola Steak House Mineola, Iowa 712-526-2078 Open 7 Days a Week Check Us Out on Facebook
The Buck Snort 113 4th Street Neola, Iowa 51559 712-485-9090 The Buck Snort on Facebook
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Guns and Ammo 2A Firearms Training Training to Protect Your 2nd Amendment Rights 641-439-6660 Craig.2aft@gmail.com
Guns and Ammo JLM Shooters Supply 6931 Douglas Avenue Urbandale, Iowa 50322 jlmgunshop@gmail.com 515-331-1577
Insurance & Financial O’Malley Wealth Mgmt. 5623 NW 86th Street Suite 400 Johnston, Iowa 50131 515-490-0930 State Farm Clark Ahrenholtz, Agent NMLS# 1679997 2114 12th Street Harlan, Iowa 712-755-5724 Clark.ahrenholtz.jb69@statefarm.com
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Jewelry
Shops & Fabricators
Bill’s Jewelry Shop 903 Main Street Grinnell, Iowa 50112 641-236-1008 Rings Checked FREE!
Butterfield’s M.C. Parts 8025 Blondo Street Omaha, NE 68134 402-391-3768
Legal Hupy and Abraham sc, pc Lawyers for Bikers 800.800.5678 Hupy.com TheBikerLawyers.com The Biker Lawyers, P.C. Riding & Defending Your Rights for Over 30 Years 877-209-9452
Photo and Art Ullrich Photography PO Box 1842 Clinton, Iowa 52733 563-243-8715 www.natanic.com
Services Jason Roberts, LLC Haul It, Dig It, Doze It Code931993@yahoo.com 641-740-1411
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Chuck’s Cycle Service and Repair S&S and Drag Specialties Dealer 714 East 7th Street Washington, Iowa52353 319-461-5278 Cycle Clinic 2209 ML King Pkwy Des Moines, Iowa 50314 cycleclinicdm.com 515-288-6954 F & J Racing 701 N 3rd Ave Marshalltown, Iowa 50158 641-752-8651 www.fandjracing.com
Road Rage BikeWorks 401 High Street Avoca, Iowa 51521 712-307-6111 Road Rage BikeWorks on Facebook SS Collision, Cycle Works & Graphics 2902 11th Ave SW Spencer, Iowa 51301 712-262-3959 www.sscollision.com The Vic Shop DeSoto, Iowa 515-339-4313 Facebook.com/TheVicShop VICTORY & INDIAN ONLY Thunder Road Cycles 4106 Rockingham Rd Davenport, Iowa 52802 563-323-3172 Thunder Road Cycles on Facebook
Tires Sandbothe Firestone 1106 Main Street Griswold, Iowa 51535 712-778-2223 Sandbothe Firestone on Facebook
Trailers Lacaeyse Trailer Sales 4192 HWY 146 Grinnell Trailers & Truck Accessories 641-990-2674 www.lacaeysetrailers.com
To buy ad space for your business or service in our directory, give us call at 712-249-5630 or email vernon@thunderroadsiowa.com
Mean Machine Cycle Parts Elkhart, Iowa 50073 Stereos, Bars, LED Lights, Air Ride Mon-Fri 9-6, Sat 9-12 515-367-7336 Motorcycle Medic 3176 Highway 30 Woodbine, Iowa 51579 712-647-2818 Open Tues-Sat Noon-6PM Nelson Machine & Forge General Machining, Ornamental Iron, Weld/Fab 70 Washington Street Marne, Iowa 51552 712-781-2220
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Jenny Geer 2015 Harley-Davidson Street Glide Corning Connie Allen 2001 Harley-Davidson Softail Deuce Sigourney
Jen Armstrong 03 XB9 Buell & 01 Harley Dyna Lowrider Des Moines 16 - TRMI MARCH 2020
We want you on our pages! If you are an Iowa Girl of Thunder, send us a quality image, your name, year and model of bike, and where you are from to: vernon@thunderroadsiowa.com
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Anyway… Morning of Oct. 10th I took off for the southeastern states, which were the last I needed to hit. I’d actually left a day early, due to the weatherman forecasting a cold front pushing into Iowa, so I figured best to get ahead of it. I shot south on I-74 through Illinois, Indiana, skirted around Cinci, then jumped on I-75 south through Kentucky. Friends Dozer and Brandi F live just north of Lexington, and I’ve been fortunate to experience some pretty kick-ass parties they’ve hosted at Shadetree Acres. They actually had plans to be outta town that weekend, but still welcomed me to crash at their pad for the night.
This is the 7th Chapter of an Iowa boy’s attempt to ride all the lower 48 states. If you haven’t read the previous chapters, I advise you to find the back issues of TRMI to take in the full story. Enjoy… Thursday, October 10th, 2019: Leaving home this time was tough, to say the least! I’d been back and forth for weeks, trying to decide if I was gonna finish the journey this year or not. When I started all this, the idea of riding all the lower 48 states kept me motivated, but after thinking about how much time I’d been on the road and how little was getting accomplished on the home front, that motivation didn’t hold much weight any more. But above all that was the financial issues… I had no idea how I was going to fund the last leg of this journey. I had about $140 to my name, and maybe $100 to spare on my last credit card. I’d managed to get by very cheap for the travels I’d done on this deal, but my better judgement was telling me to sit this out. But then again, I’m not good at giving up on things, and I was committed to this project for TRMI, so I had to figure out something. Sob story aside, I’d spoke with my friend Tam in North Carolina about modeling for Natanic’s Pin-ups calendar as I was through her area, but on my scheduled days down there, her and her husband Dave had plans to be setup at a swap meet in Charlotte. I did some digging and come to find out that this was a free event for vendors to setup at, so it got my gears spinning. I packed some handmade Damascus knives by friend Stacy Strohfus that I’ve been selling at shows, along with a dozen or so 2020 Natanic calendars, and figured it was worth a shot to sell them while on the road! 22 - TRMI MARCH 2020
The next morning I was up early and heading south again. An uneventful day, aside from gazing at a 1948 Panhead at a Harley Shop south of Lexington, where I needed to get some saddlebag hardware that had rattled off. And temps got a bit toasty, well toasty for what I was used to for an Iowa October anyway. I then jumped on I-40 east into Tennessee (State #39) and rode through Rocky Top, Tennessee (got that song in your head now, don’t ya!) before crossing into North Carolina (State #40) for a gas stop near Asheville. Longtime Iowa friends Mary Jo and Jeff had their fill of Iowa winters for their lifetime, and relocated to Greenville, South Carolina a few years ago. I mentioned my travel plans to Mary Jo, and she invited me to crash for however long I needed, so I jumped south on Hwy 25 into South Carolina (State #41) and met Mary Jo for a few drinks right after she got off work. The low beam on my Road King burnt out somewhere around Asheville, but I had a spare on hand once we got to Mary Jo’s . Her garage also plays the part of a convenient party pad, with the guest room looking over all the excitement, where me and her cat Motorhead partied it up for a few days!
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Next day Jeff had work to serve up, but we met a few of their friends for lunch, before David escorted us on a ride back into North Carolina. We never had plans to make the famous Dragon’s Tail that day, but got in the general area where the roads provided some great riding through all the rural twists and turns. We stopped along the way and found a neat old stone bridge that was erected in 1820 and was part of the main trail between Asheville and Greenville for many years. Mary Jo kept telling me about this greenhouse place that we had to see, and it was well worth the ride. Basically just a large greenhouse that now houses a bar that caters to the vintage motorcycle enthusiast, and especially the British motorcycle fan. They have live bands on the weekends too, but we needed to get back south for some grub and meet up with Jeff, so we missed out on that action.
Next day was the swap meet in Charlotte, NC. I was up early and on the road with hopes to sell a few knives and calendars to fund a few more days on this trip. Weather sucked, so I was soaked when I rolled in, but I was the only vendor who pulled in on a motorcycle. I picked a spot, pulled my bike right up to it, unloaded, laid out a cheap blanket, and spread my knife collection and calendars out on it. Not a huge event for attendance, but I still managed to put about $250 in my pocket, and got to leave my bike right at my spot (which was indoors by the way) and Tam even made me a ham sandwich as she was feeding their crew. So in all, it was well worth sitting around in wet clothes all day. And I got a chance to warm her up to the idea of modeling, so I think Natanic’s fans can look forward to seeing her in a future calendar! The ride back to Mary Jo’s was worse than the ride to Charlotte. Rain was heavy and relentless for about 50 miles out of the city, but did finally let up. Good thing I was already wet all day! Mary Jo and Jeff were out with friends, so I figured it was a good chance to attack another order of those amazing wings, but I was denied. Sat my wet ass on a bar stool and placed my order, but come to find out the cook the night before never set any out to thaw. So, I guess I gotta make another road trip to Greenville in the not too distant future!
Jeff met us back in Greenville at their local hang-out, which for the life me I can’t remember the name, but I can tell you that their wings are amazing! I mean these are worth writing home to mom about! Even Jeff, who’s some sorta master chef (or just cooks a lot) spoke highly of these wings. Now, I’m not the world’s biggest wing fan, but damn they were good! I can’t recall the whole process of their specialty with preparing them, but… Ok, I’ll quit boring you with this. Thunder Roads Magazine of Iowa on Facebook
Said my goodbyes to Mary Jo, Jeff, and Motorhead then hit the interstates down into Georgia (State # 42) with nothing special to report. I stopped in Savannah to get gas and had numerous messages on my phone from Eryka (former TRMI rep) and some guy named Heavy from Daytona. Eryka has some connections down there, and come to find out she’d mentioned me to Heavy as someone looking for work. Turns out Heavy owns Midwest Motorcycle just off the Main Street Bridge (mainland side) and was looking for an extra hand around the shop for a few days. Therefore I rode into Florida (State #43) and made my down to Daytona for the week. Nate Ullrich www.Natanic.com Be sure to grab TRMI next month for the final chapter of 48 States.
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Have you ever heard of the Motorcycle Relief Project? Well, the Motorcycle Relief Project or MRP is a nonprofit organization based in Evergreen, Colorado. The MRP’s vision began when founder, Tom Larson, began learning about PTSD and the destructive consequences it was taking on both military veterans and first responders in our country. Although Tom is not a veteran, he had previously received treatment for trauma in his own life. Tom was empathetic to veterans and first responders and the severity of the traumas they may have endured. Tom was acutely aware of how therapeutic it was to get on his motorcycle and ride when he needed to relax and blow off some steam, therefore Tom couldn’t help but think that taking veterans with PTSD and other injuries on motorcycle adventure trips could be a great way to help them decompress learn stress management tools, and to connect with others in similar situations. The MRP has one ultimate goal…to serve those who serve(d) all of us. They understand that this might be uncomfortable for some people, and that sometimes it is difficult to accept when someone thanks you for your service. They understand that maybe you don’t always feel worthy of someone’s gratitude or admiration just because you wore the uniform. The MRP recognizes that serving in the military or as a first responder is hard work. Work that is often completed under difficult circumstances. They also know that for many of you, serving came at a great personal cost. So how is the MRP offering to serve you, the veteran, the first responder? Veteran Relief Rides. These Relief Rides are 5-day dual-sport motorcycle tours specifically designed to provide relief to veterans with PTSD and related issues. Rides include a combination of on-road and moderate off-road riding. Participants get to ride on some of the most scenic two-lane roads in the country as well as some amazing jeep trails and forest roads. Participants must have a valid motorcycle license and at least a year of experience riding motorcycles. No previous off-road experience is required. These rides are controlled with a lead rider in front and a sweep rider in back and all participants are asked to ride with safety as the main priority. The rides are designed to promote camaraderie, and are not meant to be competitive. Support vehicles are provided to carry participants’ supplies. Any riders who own a dual-sport or adventure bike are encouraged to bring their own bikes, but don’t worry, if you don’t own one, you will be provided with a BMW GS adventure bike from our fleet of bikes that includes G650GS, F650GS, F800GS and R1200GS models for use during the ride. You will end each day in comfortable lodges, where participants can unwind and join in group discussions around the lodge fireplace. I addition to hours of awesome riding, participants will learn simple techniques for relaxing and dealing with trauma that can help them better manage their internal stress and move toward recovery. 26 - TRMI MARCH 2020
Sounds expensive, right? Not to worry, participants in Relief Rides are sponsored by generous donors and corporate sponsors who are concerned about the toll that serving in the military takes on many of the men and women of our armed forces. To take advantage of this amazing offer, simply fill out the online application, and then once you are notified that you’ve been accepted to be a participant in a Relief Ride, you must make a $100 deposit to guarantee your spot in the group. The $100 is simply to show you have committed to showing up. Backing out or being a “no-show” causes problems for everyone. Don’t have an extra Benjamin lying around? Not to worry, you will be refunded the deposit once you successfully complete the ride. Successful completion means a few things… finishing the ride without crashing, getting any tickets, fighting with others, sneaking off to get sauced, breaking laws, etc. In their words, successful completion means “you’ve been engaged, cooperative and safe”. Sounds like a reasonable request in return for a $3,000 “Thank You” vacation. So, when and where do these awesome rides commence? The 2020 Relief Ride dates are shaping up like this: Arizona Veteran’s Rides are happening March 1-7, March 8-14, April 26-May 2, May 3-9, October 25-31, and November 1-7. The Colorado Veteran’s Rides are happening May 31-June 6, July 19-26, August 9-15 (Women’s Ride), and August 1622. There is also a First Responder’s (men) Ride planned in Colorado for September 7-13. Think you would like to apply? Go online to www. motorelief.org and fill out the application or take a look at a sample itinerary. Not interested in attending, but want to donate to the cause? Use the same link above or call 720722-3995. In addition to financial assistance, the website is home to a list of current needs, which at the time of publication included the following urgent needs: 20 foot enclosed trailer for transporting bikes, a Turbo Diesel pickup for pulling trailers, a Toy Hauler trailer for scouting trips and overflow lodging, Motorcycle Donations of all kinds, and a DMC Sidecar to accommodate physically disabled veterans attending the rides. Donations of any size can also be mailed to Motorcycle Relief Project PO Box 3220 Evergreen, CO 80437. There are some pretty cool things happening in our communities to honor our veterans and first responders. These Veteran’s Relief Rides are among the top opportunities that I have seen lately. Please take advantage of them when you can. Melanie J. Schwarte If you or someone you know would like to be featured on our Military Rider page, please contact me at Melanie@ thunderroadsiowa.com for further information.
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HOT DOG DAZE Did I get gas? Bike is clean as it is going to be. Where I am headed? Doesn’t even matter. It is not about the shine; it is about the soul that each bike brings. I roll in around 10am. I want to be there before the crowd starts to show. I have my big lens ready to capture the images of iron art as it converges on this midtown parking lot. This little get together has grown each year. In the early years it was just a few friends grilling some hot dogs up for lunch. I wonder if Bob Butterfield (late owner of Butterfield’s) would have thought his little way of thanking customers would grow to be the major Midwest event that it is today? The tradition is carried on by Breeze, the Oz of H-D knowledge, Vivian and all the Butterfield family. No Richard measuring, no trophies. All we want is to hear the sounds of the bikes and hang out with some good friends. So turn that radio off and let’s just enjoy each other’s company.
Enjoy the photos and plan on being at the 2020 Hot Dog Daze! Mark Fountain fountainphoto.net
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JP Cycles Press Release
Comoto Holdings acquires J&P Cycles from Motorsports Aftermarket Group (MAG); Comoto Family of Brands further expands Philadelphia, PA – Comoto Holdings, parent company of leading moto enthusiast retail brands RevZilla and Cycle Gear, today announced it has acquired J&P Cycles, the industry’s largest omni-channel retailer of aftermarket products for the American V-Twin rider. With this acquisition, Comoto Holdings becomes the definitive market leader in yet another robust segment of the vast powersports aftermarket products industry. J&P Cycles will continue to operate as a distinct and differentiated brand, under the daily operational leadership of industry icon and long-time J&P Cycles veteran, Zach Parham, who joins the Comoto executive leadership team as president of J&P Cycles. “We are thrilled to welcome Zach and the talented team from J&P Cycles into the Comoto Family of Brands”, says Ken Murphy, CEO of Comoto Holdings. “J&P’s decadeslong legacy of exceptional selection, service, and savings are hallmark tenets of each and every Comoto brand, and will remain a driving force behind our continued highgrowth in the years to come.” “J&P Cycles was built on obsession with customer service and offering the best product section for riders,” said Zach Parham, president of J&P Cycles. “Comoto shares these same values. Each brand in the Comoto Family has complementary strengths. We are excited to leverage these strengths and take J&P Cycles to the next level.” With this transaction now finalized, organizational efforts are underway to both facilitate a seamless integration of J&P Cycles into the Comoto platform and to ensure ‘ride season’ readiness for all three retail brands. “As the preeminent omni-channel platform for the industry’s biggest and best retail brands, our goal is to ensure each distinct brand flourish in the marketplace, by preserving legacy attributes required of brand authenticity while also unlocking the full selection, service, and savings potential inherent through inclusion in our Comoto Family of Brands platform,” says Murphy. ### About Comoto Holdings Comoto Holdings is America’s largest and fastest growing omni-channel retail platform in the powersports aftermarket-products industry; dedicated to advancing the experience of moto enthusiasts across the globe. Comoto’s brands, RevZilla, Cycle Gear, and now J&P Cycles, deliver premium and exclusive products, dedicated expertise, and passionate customer support of the rider-enthusiast community through best-in-class ecommerce and retail experiences. Thunder Roads Magazine of Iowa on Facebook www.thunderroadsiowa.com
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F Fr From: r American Motorcycling Vol V No. 7 July 1951
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F
inally, we are heading into March and hopefully spring is right around the corner. If you are anything like me, then you are more than ready to get back out on two wheels. As you are waiting on Mother Nature to fix her attitude, daydreaming about that nice weather and wondering where and what to do this summer, make sure you put the ABATE of Iowa Freedom Rally on your list of things to attend.
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hy is this rally so important to support? Let me tell you, this rally is not just a great time for all who attend. It is also the major fundraiser for ABATE of Iowa. Yu may be asking yourself, just what does ABATE of Iowa actually do with the money they raise from the rally? ABATE of Iowa uses those dollars to support its brothers and sisters on two wheels by funding things like the share the road program, rider education programs, the two-wheel trauma Thunder Roads Magazine of Iowa on Facebook
program, and our lobbying work at both the federal and state levels. This rally helps ABATE help motorcyclists here at home in Iowa and those from around the United States.
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o, this summer try to support your local State Motorcycle Rights Organization parties and surrounding states’ ABATE rallies. These events are so much more than a good time, they are working to preserve your rights and provide motorcycle education. Come to one of the best in the Midwest, the Freedom Rally, put on by our own ABATE of Iowa on July 2nd, 3rd, and 4th 2020. Visit www. abateofiowafreedomrally. org to get your advanced tickets and check out the entertainment lineup for this year’s event. Hope to see you all there. David Duffy “Duff” State Coordinator ABATE of Iowa
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on portion sizes. The omelet is always cooked perfectly and rolled up very neatly. The hash browns are the right mixture of soft on the inside and crispy on the outside. The bacon, oh the bacon… their cooks must take special classes on how to cook bacon just for me. It’s always prepared so it’s not limp and dripping with grease or so over cooked that it shatters when you bite it. It’s perfectly tender and chewy. Heather opted for the 21 piece shrimp dinner basket. While these may not be jumbo shrimp, they certainly aren’t shrimpy shrimp either. They were lightly breaded and were served with cocktail sauce, your choice of potato, and soup or a salad.
Village Court Family Restaurant 687 S Taft Ave Ste 4 Mason City, Iowa 50401 Phone: (641) 424-5065 Hours: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
I’m a sucker for a good breakfast, any time of day. Scrambled eggs, toast, hash browns, bacon, and a nice cup of coffee sure do hit the spot. It doesn’t matter if its 6 a.m. or 6 p.m., Village Court Family Restaurant will be happy to serve it up whenever you decide to stop in. Nestled in an unassuming building on Mason City’s west side is one of the area’s best places, in my opinion, to grab a bite to eat. Village Court offers something for everyone with their full menu; everything from a simple breakfast of eggs and toast to steak and seafood. They offer a large dining area filled with tables and booths, plus a short bar style sitting area. Two flat screen televisions are usually tuned to major network news to help keep patrons abreast of the latest goings on in the world. The staff at Village Court are very attentive, making sure to keep your drinks topped off and checking to see if you need anything during your dining experience. You can pick any day of the week and find that the parking lot is close to full, but no need to worry, they have ample room to seat you or your party of 12 (or larger). They have a large back room in case the main dining area fills up, which it often does, especially on Sundays during their breakfast buffet (6 a.m. - 2 p.m.).
Village Court offers daily lunch and dinner specials. Monday’s offerings are a chopped sirloin, patty melt, BLT wrap, or a hot pork tenderloin. Tuesday brings a country fried steak, longhorn burger, beef tips over noodles, mushroom and Swiss burger, or a pork tenderloin. Wednesday you can dive into a meatloaf dinner, Philly burger, or Alpine chicken. Thursday has a chicken tenders meal, ribeye steak sandwich, hot pork tenderloin, or a Rueben sandwich. Friday is Village Court’s fish fry day offering several different options. A 3 piece Walleye dinner or 3 piece Cod dinner (for $1 more, you can go All You Can Eat!), boiled Cod dinner, 21 piece shrimp, fish platter, fish & chips, ocean perch dinner, or Cod on a bun. Saturday has a ribeye steak dinner, ribeye steak and shrimp dinner, chicken Alfredo, or a Texas melt. Sunday offers a baked ham dinner, chicken fried steak, hot turkey, or a pork tenderloin. Most dinner specials come with either French fries or other potato choices and soup or salad. There are also breakfast specials throughout the week. Homemade pies of various flavors are available to top off your dining experience… if you have any room left. If you happen to find yourself in the Mason City area, swing on in to Village Court Family Restaurant and grab a bite to eat. Tell them Thunder Roads sent ya.
Being a creature of habit, I often order a 3 egg cheese omelet which is served with hash browns and toast (or David McCoy pancake), plus a side of bacon. I don’t often finish the Thunder Roads Magazine of Iowa entire meal because Village Court doesn’t mess around david@thunderroadsmagazine.com
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Three nuns are sitting on a park bench when a flasher go back down except to leave the place, pla lace ce,, never ce neve ne verr ve comes by. The first nun had a stroke, the second nun had a to return. A couple of girlfriends stroke, the third nun couldn’t reach. went to the shopping center to find some husbands... First floor the door had a sign saying, A man goes to the doctor and says “I’ve got a problem, I “These men have jobs and love have 5 penises.” The doctor says “Wow, how do your pants kids.” The women read the sign fit?” He replies, “Like a glove.” and said, “Well, that’s better than n not having a job or not loving kids, s s, but I wonder what’s further up?” ?”” When I die, I hope I have enough time to point at a complete So up they went. Second floor tthe he stranger and whisper “You did this.” sign read, “These men have high pa paying ayiing jobs, love kids, and are extremelyy ggood oo od looking.” “Hmmm,” said the ladies, es, “But “Bu Butt When 3 people have sex it’s called a threesome. When 2 I wonder what’s further up?” Third rd fl floo oor oo or people have sex it’s called a twosome. Now I understand the sign read, “These men havee why they call you handsome. high paying jobs, are extremely good looking, love kids and help with the housework.” “Wow,”” President George W. Bush goes to a primary school to talk said the women, “Very tempting.” .” But But to the kids to get a little good press. After his talk he offers there was another floor so further her up up question time. One little boy puts up his hand and George they went. Fourth floor the doorr ha had da asks him his name. “Stanley,” responds the little boy. “And sign saying “These men have high paying what is your question, Stanley?” “I have 4 questions: First, jobs, love kids, are extremely good looking, help with the why did the USA invade Iraq without the support of the housework and have a strong romantic streak.” “Oh, mercy UN? Second, why are you President when Al Gore got more me,” they cried, “Just think what must be awaiting us votes? Third, whatever happened to Osama Bin Laden?” further on!” So up to the fifth floor they went. Fifth floor Fourth, why are we so worried about gay-marriage when the sign on that door said, “This floor is empty and exists 1/2 of all Americans don’t have health insurance? Just only to prove that women are fucking impossible to please. then, the bell rings for recess. President Bush informs the The exit is to your left; we hope you fall down the stairs. “ kiddies that they will continue after recess. When they resume George says, “OK, where were we? Oh, that’s right, question time. Who has a question?” Another little boy What do dildos and tofu have in common? puts up his hand. George points him out and asks him his They are both meat substitutes. name. “Steve,” he responds. “And what is your question, Steve?” “Actually, I have 6 questions. First, why did the USA invade Iraq without the support of the UN? Second, A female brain cell was lost one day, and found itself inside why are you President when Al Gore got more votes? a man’s head. Looking around, she saw that it was all very Third, whatever happened to Osama Bin Laden? Fourth, dark and empty. She started to get a little afraid, so she why are we so worried about gay marriage when 1/2 of all called out nervously, “Is anyone here?” With the only thing Americans don’t have health insurance? Fifth, why did the coming back to her being was the echo of her own voice; recess bell go off 20 minutes early? And sixth, what the hell she called a little louder, “Can anyone hear me?” Still there happened to Stanley?” was no response. By now the female brain cell was quite frightened and she called out loudly again, “IS THERE ANYONE HERE!” From far away she heard a little voice Between the ages of 13 and 18, she is like Africa...virgin reply, “Hello, were all down here…” and unexplored. Between the ages of 19 and 35, she is like Asia...hot and exotic. Between the ages of 36 and 45, she is like America... fully explored, breathtakingly beautiful, A woman applying for a job in a Florida lemon grove and free with her resources. Between the ages of 46 and 58, seemed way too qualified for the job. Look Miss,” said she is like Europe...exhausted, but still has many points of the foreman, “have you any actual experience in picking interest. After 58 she is like Australia...everybody knows lemons?” “Well, as a matter of fact, yes!” she replied. “I’ve it’s down there but who gives a damn. been divorced three times.” What do you get when you cross poison ivy with a four-leaf A woman went to the doctor’s office. Where she was seen clover? A rash of good luck. by one of the new doctors, but after about 4 minutes in the examination room, she burst out, screaming as she ran down the hall. An older doctor stopped her and asked Recently a “Husband Super Store” opened where women what the problem was, and she told him her story. After could go to choose a husband from among many men. It listening, he had her sit down and relax in another room. was laid out over five floors, with the men increasing in The older doctor marched down the hallway to the back positive attributes as you ascended. The only rule was, where the younger doctor was and demanded, “What’s the once you opened the door to any floor, you HAD to choose matter with you? Mrs. Terry is 63 years old, she has four a man from that floor; if you went up a floor, you couldn’t grown children and seven grandchildren, and you told her 36 - TRMI MARCH 2020
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she was pregnant?” The new younger doctor continued to write on his clipboard and without looking up said, “Does she still have the hiccups?”
Three members of a weekly bridge quartet were all impressed when the fourth arrived wearing a gorgeous new mink coat. “That’s a lovely garment, Fran,” purred one woman. “It must have cost you a fortune!” “But it didn’t,” said Fran, “just a single piece of ass.” “You mean,” continued the admirer of the coat, “One that you gave your What do you call a lesbian who moves out husband?” “No,” smiled the coat wearer, “One that he got of her girlfriend’s house? A Beaver Leaver! from the maid.”
Bill and Roy, a couple of farmers, met at the town hardware store on Friday. “Had some problems with my herd, lamented bill. “My prize bull was impotent. But the Vet came and gave him some special medicine, and now he seems to be doing fine.” The following week, Roy met Bill again. “My bull’s had problems too,” comment Roy. “What was that medicine the Vet prescribed?” I don’t know,” replied Bill. “But it tastes like chocolate.”
A blonde, a brunette and a redhead are in an elevator. They all are standing there awkwardly until one of the spots a stain on the carpet. The redhead says “it looks like cum”. The brunette smells it and says “it smells like cum”. The blonde goes and licks it and says ” nobody in this building”.
I was at my bank today waiting in a short line. There was just one lady in front of me, an Asian lady, who was trying to exchange yen for dollars. It was obvious she was a little irritated. She asked the teller, “Why it change? Yesterday, I get two hunat dolla of yen. Today I only get hunat eighty? Five surgeons discussed who are the best patients Why it change?” The teller shrugged his shoulders and in an operating room. The first surgeon says: “I like said, “Fluctuations.” The Asian lady says, “Fluc you white to operate accountants, because, when you open them people too!” up, everything is ordered by numbers.” The second surgeon answers: “Yes, but the electricians are better, because all the organs are color coded, so there is no way to make An old man takes his grandson fishing in a local pond one mistakes.” The third surgeon adds: “No, the librarians are day. After 20 minutes of fishing, the old man fires up a better: inside them everything is ordered alphabetically.” cigar. The young boy asks, “Grandpa, can I have a cigar?” The fourth says: “I must disagree mechanics are the best, The old man asks, “Son, can your dick touch your asshole?” they bring the spare parts that must be replaced.” The The young boy says no. “Then u can’t have a cigar.” Another fifth, finally, says: “I am sorry to dissent with everyone, but 20 minutes passes, and the old man opens a beer. The comrades, politicians are the best patients in the world to young boy asks, “Grandpa, can I have a beer?” The old man operate on. They have no heart, no stomach, no balls, and in asks, “Son, can your dick touch your asshole?” The young addition, the brain and the ass are totally interchangeable. boy says no. “Well, then u can’t have a beer.” Another 20 minutes passes, and the young boy opens a bag of potato chips. The old man asks, “Son, can I have some of your Two women are having lunch together, discussing the chips?” The boy asks, “Well, Grandpa, can your dick touch merits of cosmetic surgery. The first woman says, ‘I need your asshole?” The old man says, “It sure can.” The boy to be honest with you, I’m getting a boob job.’ The second says, “Well good, then go fuck yourself, these are my chips.” woman says, ‘Oh that’s nothing, I’m thinking of having my asshole bleached.’ The first woman replies, ‘Funny, I just can’t picture your husband as a blonde.’ In South Los Angeles, a four-plex was destroyed by fire. A Nigerian family of six con artists lived on the first floor, and all six died in the fire. A black Islamic group of seven Cinderella walked along the beach, gray-haired, hip- welfare cheaters, all illegally in the country from Kenya, replaced and elderly, accompanied only by her arthritic lived on the second floor, and they, too, all perished in old tomcat. ZAP! Her old Fairy Godmother appeared. “Hi the fire. Six Los Angeles gangbanger ex-cons lived on the there, Cinders. I’ve come to grant you three wishes again.” third floor and they died as well. One white couple lived “Oh. Fairy Godmother, I wish I could be young again,” said on the top floor. The couple survived the fire. Jesse Jackson, Cinderella. “Done”, said the Fairy and Cinderella was again John Burris, and Al Sharpton were furious. They flew to in the bloom of youth and beauty. “Oh, Fairy Godmother, Los Angeles and met with the fire chief on television. They I wish I could be rich like I used to be,” and lo and behold, loudly demanded to know why the Nigerians, Muslims, it came about. “Fairy Godmother, is it too much to ask for and gangbangers all died in the fire, and only the white you to turn my old tomcat into the handsome man of my couple survived. The fire chief said, “Please don’t get upset. dreams?” asked Cinderella. “Not at all, my dear, here he The reason those fellow citizens survived was because they is!” With that the Fairy Godmother disappeared and right were at work.” in front of Cinderella stood the real man of her dreams instead of her old mangy cat. She held her arms open to Two Irishmen were walking home after a night on the beer him and they kissed romantically. “Now then, Cinderella”, when a severed head rolled along the ground. Mick picked he said, “aren’t you sorry you took me to the vet?” it up to his face and said to Paddy “Jez, that look like Sean” To which Paddy replied “No Sean was taller than that” You know you’ve got a high sperm count when she has to How does Donald Trump plan on deporting 12 million chew before she swallows. illegal immigrants? Juan by Juan. Thunder Roads Magazine of Iowa on Facebook
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UTV. I added LED lights, dialed in a plow, you know…redneck stuff! Let’s push some snow! I did…and it was fun. I mean, there is a motor involved, it burns gas, it’s a wicked fun time! I The Struggle is real but the beginning is near would do my place, my neighbor that winters in Arizona, another neighbor that always works during snow events, The struggle is real in all of us, it’s here, on our minds, a single lady down the street, my buddy further down the beating in our very cores of being, always just there. The street, random people around my neighborhood that looked struggle of making it through another winter. But we are like they needed help, and a few more just because. It was ever so damn close! You can almost taste it. Forces of nature a great respite to get the hell outside and play with a moare undeniable, they are going to be happy, whether we torized toy! Yea, it helped, I figure why not embrace the want them to or not. Seasons are going to change, birds are seasons we have been dealt and try to make the best of it. going to migrate, buds are going to pop on trees, the big ball continues to swing about and lean closer to the Sun, usher- I know, it’s not easy for me either. Hell, I have even eming in yet another spring, another summer, and more impor- braced ice fishing more. Actually, I do love me some ice tantly, another riding season. fishing. There is something about it that intrigues me a great deal. It’s surreal standing on five, six, even 10 inches of ice. I know not all of America suffers through this bullshit that t’s quiet enough to be a great way to center you, but once we in the Midwest call winter. We all have brothers and it’s over, I keep thinking, hell, I can fish out of a boat too sisters that laugh at us worrying about winterizing our and be warm, plus see my spousal unit in her bikini, which bikes, storing them, walking by them in the garage under I like a lot more than her covered in layers of cold weather their covers. They don’t feel the chest heaving sighs that we gear. I got after it this winlet out, maybe even a small, ter. I did my level best. secret tear that forms in the corner of our eye socket when But for how many more the unmitigating pain of not winters can I keep pulling being able to ride kicks us this off before I just simply in our collective genitals. lose my mind all together? They sit back in their warm End up having a big ass climates closer to the Equagarage sale, donating the tor and giggle at our pain, our rest, loading my bike into suffering, our struggle with the trailer and not looking the will to even get out of bed back. I have often said, I am when it’s 2 degrees and grab going to load my snowour winter coats. We see our blower into my truck and vests sitting there, longing keep driving south, until I for us as much as we long to get to a gas station and a feel that well-worn leather local asks, “What in the hell touching our skin once again, is that thing?” Then, I know to have that same conversaI am far enough away from tion that comes around every the snow, cold and the ice spring, “I don’t remember that at any moment is trying it being this tight, damn closet shrunk my shit again!” No, to make me tumble assholes over elbows and wind up a those southerners just go about their day, wondering how broken, bloody stump on my driveway…stuck, dying a slow anybody can survive, let alone actually LIVE in these hiddeath as the coyotes slowly circle around ready to consume eous conditions that are not meant for man nor beast. Hell, my abused carcass as the locals (who I took care of their we have that same internal conversation with ourselves damn snow all winter) just whistle as they drive by. I hope sometimes, or with our brothers, sisters, wives, buddies, them damn coyotes get alcohol poisoning when they hit my whoever might actually care to listen. liver! Filthy vermin. Why in the hell do we live here?
But that is all behind us, right? Birds are signing, the robins are back with a vengeance, the days are getting longer and I know, I know, we all have our reasons, the list is long and warmer, bikes are getting dusted off, batteries charged, ever changing. But we love the seasons! Okay, I try and sell roads getting rid of the salt, sand, silt, and brine that somethat horseshit line to myself every damn year. Over and over how seems to stick around forever. It’s happening. and over. I mean, I have a wicked Christmas Light display, I really do. The kind that people drive out of their way to see, And just like that, we have made it through another winter listen over their stereos to while it plays 20 different songs and riding season is here! Oh, hell yes. from Trans-Siberian Orchestra. It’s really cool, but it also takes a few days to set up and dial in and nearly every damn Now, if I can just figure why my closets keep shrinking my year I freeze my giblets off setting it all up. But you know biker gear! I know it wasn’t that tight last fall. what? They have Christmas along the Gulf! I bet those Santa’s little helpers don’t need to worry about frostbite Todd “Crash” Davis running 17 miles of extension cords! I keep telling myself, enjoy the winter, embrace it. I even supped up a side by side Thunder Roads Magazine of Iowa on Facebook www.thunderroadsiowa.com 38 - TRMI MARCH 2020
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TRMI MARCH 2020 - 39
Feb 28-29 Mar 1 Mar 6-8 Mar 6-15 Mar 7 Mar 7 Mar 13-15 Mar 15
Omaha Chapter AMCA National Swap Meet Fremont NE Parts Girl Promotions Swap Meet Cedar Rapids Cyclerama at World of Wheels Chicago Bike Week Daytona Beach, FL Bikes at the Brewery La Crosse’, WI Flipping for B.A.C.A. Charity Tournament West Des Moines World of Wheels Omaha Wade’s High Performance Swap Meet & Trade Show Des Moines Mar 21 25th Annual Pancake Breakfast Metro HD Cedar Rapids Mar 28 Raccoon Valley Powersports Garage/Mancave Tour Jefferson Mar 28 Summer Ride Book Kick Off Party Big Barn HD Des Moines Mar 28-29 33rd Annual Donnie Smith Bike Show St Paul, MN Apr 4 Fashion Show Big Barn HD Des Moines Apr 4-5 34th Annual North Iowa Expo Mason City Apr 5 Parts Girl Promotions Swap Meet Rock Island, IL Apr 11 ABATE D14 Swap Meet Hedrick Apr 11 ABATE D14 TGIS Hedrick Apr 17-18 Season Opener Conesville Apr 18 7th Annual Easter Egg Hunt Metro HD Cedar Rapids Apr 18 Bike Blessing & BBQ Open House Rt 65 HD Indianola Apr 18 Harley Joe’s Invitational #2 Omaha Apr 19 15th Annual Hill Blazers Hill Climb Logan Apr 25 Blessing of the Bikes Big Barn HD Des Moines Apr 25 Baxter Cycle Omaha Grand Opening Omaha, NE Apr 26 SGT Kearney Memorial Motorcycle Run Emerson May 1-2 Vintage Torque Fest Dubuque May 2 9th Annual Sleeping Angels Fun Run Boone May 2 F&J Racing 25th “Blessing Of The Bikes” Grand Finale Marshalltown May 2 Chrome Diva Awareness Ride Metro HD Cedar Rapids May 7-9 Tent Event Big Barn HD Des Moines May 8-9 Swap Meet & Flea Market Conesville May 9 PGI Riders Blessing of the Bikes Ride Metro HD Cedar Rapids May 16 ABATE D 16 Annual Motorcycle Awareness Ride Cedar Falls May 21-24 Redneck Revival Rally (Over 21) Conesville May 23-25 Midway Tavern Veterans Memorial Day Weekend Poker Run Soldier May 30 Joyce’s Joyride Metro HD Cedar Rapids May 30 Harley-Davidson of Carroll Rock –N- Ride Carroll Jun 5-6 Rally in the Hills Loess Hills HD Pacific Junction Jun 6 Ride for Darcy ride Metro HD Cedar Rapids Jun 6 Mean Machine Cycle Parts “Spring Smokeout” Elkhart Jun 6 Purple Heart Tour Ride for Our Service Men & Women Green Jun 6 4th Annual Thank You Is Not Enough Ride IronHawkCVMA Chapter 39-5 Mt Pleasant Jun 12 IronHawk CVMA 39-5 APR Keosauqua Jun 12-13 Spring Open House Big Barn HD Des Moines Jun 13 IronHawk CVMA 39-5 Bike Build Off for APR Keosauqua Jun 13 12th Annual Bell Tower Festival Poker Run & Cycle Show Jefferson Jun 13 Steve Martin Ride for a Cure ride Metro HD Cedar Rapids Jun 13 6th Annual Children’s Hospital Fun Run Council Bluffs Jun 13 Roar Into Harlan Fun Run Harlan Jun 19-20 Rumble In The Sand Conesville Jun 20 Sugar Run (Diabetes) ride Metro HD Cedar Rapids Jun 20 ABATE D14 36th Baldy Memorial Fremont Jun 20 7th Annual Hometown Heroes Memorial Ride Rockwell City Jun 20-21 ABATE D14 35th Anniversary Party What Cheer Jun 26-28 Midway Tavern All Iowa 100 Day Poker Run Soldier
40 - TRMI MARCH 2020
Jun 27
Legion Riders Post 111 Annual Veterans Assistance Ride Newton Jun 27 Chains Interrupted Ride Metro HD Cedar Rapids Jun 27 Running Over Lupus Jewell Jul 2-4 ABATE of Iowa Freedom Rally Algona Jul 10-11 Combat Veterans Chapter 39-3 APR, Benefit, Ride, Cruise Elkport Jul 11 7th Annual Ride In Bike & Hot Rod Show Milford Jul 11 PGI Support Ride Metro HD Cedar Rapids Jul 11 13th Annual Freeman Ride Avoca Jul 11 Cubs Run Big Barn HD Des Moines Jul 18 Ice Cream Poker Run Big Barn HD Des Moines Jul 18 Ride for Time w/Friends of Mine Baxter Jul 18 Chloe Ann Memorial Ride Elk Horn Jul 18 St Jude Children’s Hospital ride Metro HD Cedar Rapids Jul 18-19 “Ride In” Bike Show Des Moines Jul 25 Union Trades Solidarity Ride Metro HD Cedar Rapids Jul 25 Harley and Hot Rod Summer Celebration Bike and Car Show Big Barn HD Des Moines Jul 25 Pine Lake Festival Motorcycle Show Eldora Jul 31-Aug 2 Heartland Rally by Christian Motorcycle Association of Iowa Fort Dodge Aug 1 Largest Female Ride Ever (World Record Attempt) Harley-Davidson of Carroll Aug 1 CVMA 39-2 Patriot Ride Metro HD Cedar Rapids Aug 7-16 80th Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally South Dakota Aug 8 LT Ride for Babies Ride Metro HD Cedar Rapids Aug 8 ALR (Ames Legion Riders) 2nd Annual Show & Shine IVH Marshalltown Aug 14-15 Rumble & Truck Yeah Conesville Aug 15 Cancer Sucks~Car, Truck & Bike Show Council Bluffs Aug 16 Rumble to Recovery (620 Fund Ride) Metro HD Cedar Rapids Aug 21-23 16th Annual BTW Trike In Kellogg Aug 22 Kyle’s Mile 7 Ride Metro HD Cedar Rapids Aug 22 5th Annual Hell On Wheels Chopper Show Franklin Aug 29 Cruising for a Cure Metro HD Cedar Rapids Aug 29 Corn Dog Classic Poker Chip Run hosted by JAVELAN LHHD Pacific Junction Sep 3-5 Motorcycle Swap Meet Davenport Sep 3-6 Redneck Revival Rally (Over 21) Conesville Sep 4-7 Midway Tavern 22nd Annual Soldier Valley Fundraiser Poker Run Soldier Sep 5 MS Moments Heid Ride Metro HD Cedar Rapids Sep 10 Metro Motor Madness 620 Foundation Motorcycle Drawing Metro HD Cedar Rapids Sep 12 WTF Fun Run Harlan Sep 12 9th Annual Warrior Ride Preston Sep 18-19 Rumble In The Sand Conesville Sep 18-20 State Line Rally Keosauqua Sept 19 Chrome Diva BOCA Ride Cedar Rapids Oct 8 620 Foundation Check Presentation to Children’s Hospital Metro HD Cedar Rapids Oct 9-10 Swap Meet & Flea Market Conesville Oct 16-17 EOY Drags Conesville Oct 31 Halloween Spooktacular Big Barn HD Des Moines Nov 6-7 Veteran’s Day Event Big Barn HD Des Moines Nov 11 Veteran’s Day Breakfast Metro HD Cedar Rapids Nov 27 Black Friday Event Big Barn HD Des Moines Dec 5 Chrome Diva SLD (Santa’s Lil Divas) Cedar Rapids Dec 12 Santa at Metro Metro HD Cedar Rapids Dec 12 Holiday Open House Big Barn HD Des Moines
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