Issue #151 March 2021
Are We Lucky To Have Him? Or Is He Lucky To Have Us? *see page 6
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Ms. Chrome March 2021
Ms. Ashleigh-Lee Photo by Nicole CGW
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CONTENTS
Cover Photography By Cherokee & Retread
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Ms. Ashleigh-Lee
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On The Cover
by Tammy Pierce
Dr. DILLIGAF 12 “Why I Ride” 14 16-19 20
w/
8th Annual Eli Ride
Events
A Biker’s Devotional
22-23 Hogs for Dogs Photos & Write Up By Lynn B
26-27 Motorcylecs and SC Veterans
By DDeb
By DDeb
30-31 A Resion to Ride... To Salley SC ADVERTISING SALES & MARKETING
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Carolina Chrome LLC ® PO Box 85293 Lexington, SC 29073
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Cover Photography By Cherokee & Retread Carolina Chrome Magazine™ (CCM) is a FREE publication printed monthly, Distributed in South Carolina & Border Towns to Biker Friendly Businesses & Watering Holes.
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Are We Lucky To Have Him? Or Is He Lucky To Have Us? “RF” and The Bike Community
The Bike Community is a FORCE! Alone in 2020, he loves having the biker community and Veterans during Covid-19, the Bike Community across the there so much that he now hosts a weekly bike USA raised more funds and awareness then any night which helps support the many causes that one organization, BUT don’t we every year!?! the biker community are involved in. How can In the heart of Lexington County, SOUTH CAROLINA, you go wrong with a Two Wheel Taco Tuesday we were a piece of the statewide efforts to Bike Night? make 2020 positive! So when asked if we are lucky to have him, or is How you ask... Well, “I got a guy”!: Arif. he lucky to have us... I think we are all lucky to Airf aka RF is the guy, after relocating to South have each other! Together, we make a pretty Carolina from New York City, he has jumped good team... teamwork makes the dream work! headfirst into “our” way of life. Not only is he a Thank You RF! AND Thank You Bike Community patriot who loves supporting active-duty troops for all you do! By: Woody & Nicole CGW as well as veterans, and since a large percentage of the bike community are Veterans, he has embraced us as well! During 2019 RF’s Corner Grill was born and slowly but surely, word got around the bike community about a great little place in Lexington, where the owner greets and speaks with everyone! Also, the food is awesome and during the initial stages of the COVID shut down, he offered free lunches to school kids and he complied with the “new rules” and hosted a bike night to support veterans across the state. During 2020 he decided to relocate a little place called Bubbas Biscuits to Lexington, SC! Here is where you can get some of the best biscuits and gravy, along with the traditional bacon, sausage or ham or go big with some of his creations such as Steak, Ribs, Shrimp & Grits or just about anything else his mind can come up with! And I will guarantee you will not go away hungry! Now if that wasn’t enough in late 2020, he opened Venture’s 2.0 and in keeping with his tradition, WWW.CHROMESC.COM 6
Bubbas & Biscuits Friday - Sunday 7:30am-1pm 115 West Main Street Lexington
RF’s Corner Grill Tuesday - Saturday 11:30am-10pm 712 West Main Street Lexington
Trike? With all 3 locations being with in a 20 mile circumfrance, ride a little, park alitte!
Venture’s 2.0 Tuesday - Saturday 3pm-11pm
Sunday Spring Hours TBA 5531 Edmund Hwy, Lexington
Dr. Dilligaf Dr. Dilligaf, Riding in the rain is not my favorite Past Time because my feet always get soaked. Help me out here, do I put plastic bags over my socks then into my boots or over my boots after I put them on? Signed, Wet Feet Wet Feet, You have it all wrong. The bag does not go over your socks or over your boots. It goes over your head. Or have you already tried that and suffer a little brain damage because of it? Get some waterproof boots or waterproof the boots that you already have. I do not mind the cold and I do not mind the wet, but I despise cold and wet. I recently left for a day of riding when it was 36 degrees and raining. I checked the weather the previous night and new what to expect. So out comes the saddle soap and voila waterproof boots. To put it gently, grow up and be a real Biker. Either use your brain for something more than a hat rack or learn to deal with being stupid. Being properly prepared is paramount when you ride. Your clothing and dress are just as important as the equipment you travel on. Dr. Dilligaf
Dr. Dilligaf, Usually when I pull up somewhere people always ask, “Aren’t you cold”? My answer, hell no, you ought to see me, I would be perfect for the Chrome Calendar because I’m Hot. Any way I never can come up with anything witty to say without being offensive. Any ideas for a reply? I am a little reluctant because people are so sensitive now a days. ~Speechless in Spartanburg Dear Speechless, Speechless, clueless, brainless, they are all attractive traits in a female. Of course, they are not the type of things that will get you in a calendar. But if you are HOT send me some photos and I’ll check and see if you are calendar material. If you are, I already have a witty answer to the aren’t you cold question. I am too Hot to be cold. You know like too hip to be square. And you should not worry about people being sensitive, after all you currently reside in the United States of the Offended. I expect someone to be ticked off every time I answer a letter or tell a joke. The ones you would least expect to be butt hurt are occasionally the touchiest. Personally, when I’m asked aren’t you cold, I usually respond with why don’t you feel me and see. Shortens conversations so I can go inside and get warm. Dr. Dilligaf
Dr. Diligaf is meant for entertainment only! The views and opinions expressed in the articles are not meant to offend anyone or group. If you have been offended, understand; that is not our objective. Thank you thick skin readers and for those other readers; the chrome crew offers free hugs! Send in YOUR Questions for Dr. Dilligaf to: carolinachrome@yahoo.com.
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#TylerStrong Fundraiser Exceeds $10,000 Bikers are a charitable bunch in general, but when someone we all know personally is in need, bikers will go above and beyond to support their brothers or sisters. On February 4, 2021, the 17 year old son of Rob Hardee, Tyler, was struck by a vehicle while riding his motorcycle. He suffered a skull fracture which led to a brain bleed and swelling of the brain, broken back, broken tibia and fibula in multiple places, and will have a long road to recovery. His mother and father have been by his side nonstop since that Thursday evening. If you know Tyler, at an early age his parents instilled in him to always wear his helmet and proper protective equipment while riding dirt bikes or doing any other activities. Tyler has been on two wheels since he could pretty much stand on his own two feet growing up, so skill is not a question with this young man. His personality could outshine the brightest of suns, and his smile and laughter could infect the world if he could. So when Clint Watts and several others found out Rob and his family could use some support; they did just what bikers do - they rallied together in support and raised more than $10,000. Thanks to Ventures 2.0 restaurant for hosting the successful event that brought together many of the Hardee’s family and friends. If you’d like to give, you can still donate at https://gofund.me/65400309.
Article & Photos by Lynn B
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Article & Photos by Lynn B
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A Day In The Life Of
Chrome Crew Retread.... And A Cover Shoot!
Article by Retread
The Carolina Chrome Crew wishes everyone a happy & safe St. Patrick's Day! Starting off, I want to say in life things are not always easy and things don't always go as planned! We must regroup and work out a plan and make things work to the best of the situation! As you, the readers, look at issues of the Carolina Chrome Magazine, I bet you never realize how hard each member of the Chrome Crew works to create the magazine each month! When you look at a cover and say nice shot, read an article you like, or laugh at something Dr. DILLIGAF says, it's a group effort from all of us, as the Chrome Crew. Speaking of a group effort, this month’s cover did not fall into place as planned! A day that only had a 10% chance of rain and 51-degrees high, seemed to be good day for a photo shoot, right?
WRONG!
Cherokee the primary photographer, made it to the cover shoot location as well as our cover model, Chris Mason. The warmest part of the day was pouring rain at 41-degrees! Good ole’ Cherokee, still on a crutch from his Kidney Transplant Surgery, and being weighed down by his heavy coat and hat, grabs the camaras and says, “let’s do this”! Chris was dressed in a “not so warm”, Leprechaun Biker suit! And to make things more complicated/interesting; I supplied him with shoes that are still about 7 sizes too big! Thankfully, we were able to do the photo shoot under my carport minus the 2 cars. To say the least we went the extra mile, kinda like going up a hill in the snow both ways! Our model Chris Mason is indeed famous! If not for career but for his awesomeness!! He was born and raised in Columbia S.C. by his parents who also still reside here. WWW.CHROMESC.COM 10
I asked Chris; “How was school and growing up as a little person.?” He said, for quite some time, he was angry. Angry because of children making fun of him and always being the blunt of their jokes. Chris says he grew to realize he doesn’t have the problem; they do! How true is that? For example, if you don’t like the way I ride, don’t watch me! When he was in the 9th grade, his dad landed a great job opportunity in Oklahoma. The family moved to Oklahoma where Chris graduated from Washington High School. While he was in a local mall one day, a gentleman approached Chris and asked if he had ever thought about a career in wrestling. Chris thought about it and then he contacted him and started training to be a Little Person Wrester. He enjoyed his time as a wrestler until being thrown through the ropes hitting the concrete floor, the match continued with Chris’s head being split open on the concrete. He spent over 2 weeks in the hospital with a severe concussion. At that point he pondered the idea of leaving the ring, but instead became a referee. It seemed all would go well for Chris until while refereeing an event, one wrestler took a baseball Photos by Retread & Cherokee bat filled with thumb tacks, and swung it at another wrestler who ducked, just in time for Chris to receive another blow to the head. This ended Chris’s career as a wrestler and referee! Chris and his family moved back to Columbia S.C. where they still reside. Chris is now employed with a plumbing company. He also, has days that don’t go as planned but says he will persevere. So, if you think it’s not going right or it’s not going as you think it should, realize; you and you alone, can change things.
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Why I Ride
by Tammy
Pierce
A question was posed to me “Why do you ride your own bike”? I knew what my answer was but was curious about other women. What prompted them to learn to ride. So, I posed this question to a Women’s Harley Riding group. What I found was all too familiar. As women we rode on the back with our men. Having to go where they wanted to go and on their timeline. Some started out as young women riding on the back with a father, brother, or uncle, then with boyfriends. And so, it goes life happens kids come along but there is this yearning to get back out on 2 wheels. Most of the women started back after the kids had grown up. Some, with encouragement from their husbands and friends. One thing that was most reoccurring was that most of these women are in their 40’s,50’s and 60’s they want the freedom and independence to go when and where they want to. For some it was a control thing but for many it was a chance to have wings! They took lessons, learned to ride on smaller bikes and have moved up to bigger and faster bikes. We have also learned to tinker on our rides as well. We are in a community of like-minded souls who enjoy a sisterhood a tribe from across 12
the world. Whether we are in the USA or in other countries. These women encourage and support each other to achieve things that a 100 years ago would have been considered taboo. There are many all-female riding groups out here if you are interested in riding. One thing that we as women riders do is support each other. Yes, and many of us still do ride behind our men on some occasion. I try to encourage women. Learn to ride! As women we have it in us! The empowerment of being who you are! Shield Maidens!! The opportunity to spread your wings experience life and enjoy the peace and rejuvenation of the soul. We are growing in numbers and let us face it “Nothing is Sexier than a woman who rides her own bike!”
In 2003, 9.6% of bikers in America were women. In 2015, that number was 14% By 2018, that number was 19% Among Gen Xers, that number is 22% Source: https://www.mic.org/#/newsArticle
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8th Annual Eli Ride Raises Over $20,000
The 8th Annual Eli Ride was held on Saturday, February 6, 2021. The annual memorial ride was started by Eli’s mom, Kristy Jackson after a tragic accident took his life on August 4, 2011. He was exactly 2 years, 6 months and 1 day old. He lost his life to a fallen tree. Each year on or near his birthday Eli’s sweet life is celebrated by coming together as friends, as bikers and even strangers to raise money for a local child in need. Last year doubled in attendance and collections from the year before. Kristy says, “I can only hope each year we grow more and more! It’s very important as his Mom to keep his memory alive. My heart is full to all who have given in the past. We look forward to the next ride and new adventure.” This year was the most successful event held to date. Participants joined together to give the family of Addy $23,000. Addy is a fighter for sure. She suffers from HIE which means lack of oxygen to the brain. She has damage to the top portion of her brain which controls motor functions. She is currently on a feeding tube and has therapy 3 times a week, her prognosis is unknown at this point. What started out as a memorial ride for Little Eli by his Mom Kristy Jackson with friends has grown tremendously. It is supported annually by so many wonderful people. If you’d like to participate in next year’s 9th Annual Eli Ride, you can put it on your calendars for February 5, 2022 at the Greenville Shrine Club and Event Center. More information can also be found on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ELI-Celebration-of-Life.
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Photography by Parks King WWW.CHROMESC.COM
Photos by Nicole CGW
Photos by Nicole CGW WWW.CHROMESC.COM
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March Thursday, March 4th @7 PM Bike Night Yahweh And Sons Bible Church 1824 Airport Blvd Cayce SC Saturday, March 6th 11am – 3pm Power Lunch w/ Mt Zion Lodge 127 Cox’s Harley-Davidson of rock hill The Mt Zion masonic lodge 127 is hosting the power lunch! Come out and meet some members, share some stories, eat some food, and have a good time. Saturday March 6th Make A Wish Ride; First Time Ever Dual Ride to Georgetown @Myrtle Beach Harley Davidson Reg 1@0am- KSU @11am @ Low Country Harley Davidson Reg @9:30am - KSU @10:30am After Party @ Buzz Roost
Sat & Sunday March 6th & 7th 8:30am-4:30pm 2-Day Motorcycle Safety Foundation Course Event by BMW U.S. Rider Academy BMW Performance Ctr, Greer, SC Upgrade your motorcycle permit and increase rider safety, while riding the one of the newest BMW Motorcycles (model G310R), at our Academy! Here are just some of the benefits of taking a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) Basic Rider Course with BMW US Rider Academy: enjoy first-class instructors and facility on a new BMW G310Rs (that will be provided to you for training). Without the fear of damaging their own bike, we’ve found that students are able to stay focused on the riding and training. This course is designed for novice riders, and those who have never been on a motorcycle. South Carolina residents can obtain a certificate to receive their SC Motorcycle Endorsement from the DMV. MSF classes are two days long, and are held on the weekends. Lunch is provided for both days! $339 Includes use of a G310R and lunch
Saturday March 6th 1ST Annual SOGMC Charleston Blessing Of The Bikes American Biker, Ladson SC. Friday, March 12th, 5-10pm 10am-4pm, blessings start @12pm, 3rd Annual Daytona Bike Week music, food, fellowship. Bikes N Bass FMI, 843-641-0258. @Destination Daytona Complex. 3RD ANNUAL BIKE WEEK BIKES N BASS SATURDAY, MARCH 6 @6pm DAYTONA CUSTOM BIKE SHOW and Misguided 16 Year CASH PRIZE SOUND BULLIES AUDIO Anniversary Party COMPETITION®️ all under the Big PaEvent by Misguided BrotherhoodMC @ vilion at Destination Daytona! 5pmThe “Ridgeville Roadhouse” Bar&Grill 10pm‼️ BEST OF SHOW IN BIKE COM1442 Old Gilliard Road (Route 27) PETITION GETS A FEATURE IN URBAN RIDES MAGAZINE‼️ Ridgeville, SC 29472 Come out and celebrate our 16 year anni- COME SHOW UP AND SHOW OUT AT THE EVENT THE BEST OF THE BEST versary with us. We will have; COME TO COMPETE‼️ We are bringing food, entertainment, and raffle prizes. $10 donation for singles, back the CHAMP CHAIN trophies for a night of unforgettable CUSTOM BIKE and $15 donation for couples. AND AUDIO COMPETITIONS‼️ Saturday, March 6th @ 12:30 1637 US-1, Ormond Beach, FL 32174 Salute to Veterans/Military SATURDAY, MARCH 13th 18929 Main Hwy, Olar, SC 29843 Benefit for Furman Watson We will Honor our Veterans, our Military, those that gave the ultimate Hosted by Confederates MC @ Dobbins Bridge Rd, Anderson, 29626 sacrifice and all military families.
Saturday March 13th March Madness Big Blowout 2021 Trinity MC Lancaster 1418 Kershaw Camden Rd Doors open @ 4pm. $10 Cover 7-11pm Whits End Band Saturday, March 13th 11am–5pm Armed Warriors and Windchasers Meet and Greet Benefit ride from Thunder Tower to Lake Wateree ending back at Thunder Tower. Cost $10 for single riders/ $15 for couples. All proceeds going towards the travel/ medical expenses for Ms. Dorthy Darsey which is the Grandmother of Windchasers Moonshine there will also be a silent auction & music by Hard Wired band. Hamburgers & hot dogs meal. Beer on tap available, “Canned pop” & water. Need donations for cost of the food. Open to the public all to come join us and come meet with a great 81 support who’s motto is “Striving to help those in need” actively looking & adding new members. Thursday, March 18th 6-9pm Destination Powersports Bike Night Kickoff * Blessing of Bikes * * Jake Bartley Band * * Bike Games * Contest * * Cold Beverages * #livelifewideopen
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Saturday, March 20th 7:30-10:30am American Legion Rider Chapter 193 Breakfast Fundraiser @ Zorba’s in Chapin All money raised is used to support Veteran, youth and Community causes. The breakfast is fantastic and is worth more than the $10.00. Come out and support ALR Chapter 193 and a great cause. Tickets can be purchased every Monday morning from 8:30 a.m. until 11am at Chapin Post 193 or you can send a check to PO Box 897 Chapin SC 29036 attn: ALR breakfast.
Saturday, March 20th Sons Of The South Clinton M/C Poker Run A Children’s Bereavement Camp Operated by Hospice of Laurens County, 100% of Proceeds to Jaime’s Tree House,$10 Hand. FBO 11am, LBI 3:30pm Do Not Have to Ride to Play. All Donations Accepted. Starts/Ends at The Big House 362 Shady Grove Rd., Clinton, SC. FMI Chris (874) 906-1590 Jamie (864) 871-1500 www.hospiceoflaurenscounty. com/childrensbereavemen
Saturday, March 27th Blessing of the Bikes & 2021 New Model Regal 10:30am-2pm at Myrtle Beach Harley-Davidson National Anthem @10:30am New Model Rollout @Noon Saturday, March 27th March Madness Fun Run! Hosted by Abate Of Berkeley Dorchester Begin & end at Ridgeville Roadhouse 1442 Old Gilliard road, Ridgeville. 11am entry & kickstands at Noon. Last bike in at 5pm. $15 Per bike and $5 per passenger. Each entry has a chance to win a $100 prize! Many additional prizes will be up for grabs. Meal will be provided at finish to include bbq pork/chicken, mac and cheese, green beans and rolls.Music at 4:30. Food service and raffles at 5:30.
Saturday, March 20th @ 11am Blessing Of The Bikes Cox’s H-D of Rock Hill Https://fb.Me/e/noor8anan Sunday, March 21st 13th Annual Greenwood Blessing of the Bikes First Mount Moriah Baptist Church2107 Mt. Moriah Rd, Greenwood. KSU @ Greenwood Hobby Lobby parking lot at 2pm sharp to First Mt Moriah Baptist Church! RAIN DATE MARCH 28th!!!
Saturday, March 27th @ 2pm Wind Sisters 5th Anniversary Party Live music- Shrapnyl 50/50, Baskets, Wheel Barrow of Cheer. Vendors @ The Handle Bar Tavern 2610 S Anderson Rd, Catawba, SC 29704
Saturday, March 27th CVMA Spring Ride 2021 All procceeds go to veterans in the midlands. Reg@ 10am FBO@11am LBI@ 4pm. Start/ End Swamp Cabbage Brewery. Vendors, Music & More!
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Saturday, March 27th @11:30AM Ride Against Racism 2021 This will be the 2nd ride against racism! Hopefully we will make this an annual event!The ride will have 2 parts. Riding trough downtown sreets of at least 6 upstate citiesAnd the whole thing will likely take about 5 hours route maps and time estimates will be posted Anderson and Greenville areas.
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A Biker’s Devotional By Dennis Reynolds
LIFE IS LIKE A MOTORCYCLE When I was eight years old, my dad came home with a red Briggs and Stratton mini-bike for my little brother and me. From the first time I pulled the cord and she fired to life, I loved her. It was as if a whole new world opened up and I was never the same. Forty-eight years later, I still remember the thrill of twisting that throttle. That feeling has never left me, and every time I climb on a motorcycle, I once again transform into that little old boy grinning from ear-to-ear while speeding around the back yard. While I do not remember very much about learning to ride, the experiences of a lifelong love affair with motorcycles has taught me a few things about life in general. Life is a lot like a motorcycle… 1. Life is like a motorcycle because: It’s Supposed to Be Fun. Here’s the reality; we might tell people we ride motorcycles because of the great gas mileage we get, when that has very little to do with it. We may try to justify owning a motorcycle by saying it keeps the mileage off our cars, then we log thousands of miles on motorcycle road trips. The bottom line is this; Motorcycles are Fun! And, like riding a motorcycle, life is also supposed to be fun! Ecclesiastes 3:12-13 “I have perceived that there is nothing better for them than to be joyful and do good as long as they live… This is God’s gift to man.” I read a quote once that said, “Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely leaving a pretty corpse, but rather life is a journey to skid in sideways, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming: ‘Wow! What a ride!’” Take the time to enjoy your life, stop and smell the roses, admire the sunrise and sunset, and smile at someone and watch them smile back. Most importantly though, take time to honor God as your creator and allow Him to fill you with purpose. God’s not some sadistic entity who created mankind just so He could watch us be miserable. He fully intended for us to enjoy our time here. The winner in the long run is NOT the person who gets the most years out of their life, but the person who gets the most life out of their years. 2. Life is like a motorcycle because: Sometimes It’s Scary. I LOVE riding motorcycles, but there are times when it can be a little scary. I might go into a corner too fast, have a deer run out in front of me, or some crazy person may come over into my lane. When those things happen, what is it that causes fear? For me, it’s simply not being in control. When life gets scary, take a step back and ask yourself what it is that’s scaring you. It’ll be one of two things. It will either be something over which you have some 20
control, and you need to work on it, or it’s something over which you have no control, and you need to give it to God and pray. Either way, you don’t have to be afraid. 2 Timothy 1:7 “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” Yes, sometimes life throws us a curve ball. Disease may wreck our health, our own decisions might lead to horrible consequences, or our job situation may cause us worry. Whatever the case may be, God is still in control and if you ask, He will bless you! 3. Life is like a motorcycle because: It’s Easier When You Take A Course. Whenever anyone tells me they have bought or are buying a motorcycle, the first thing I ask is “Have you taken the rider’s course.” Just because you rode a Honda 80 or a Yamaha Enduro 100 when you were 12, does not mean that at 55 years old, you can handle a thousand-pound motorcycle. Most of my motorcycling education was from crashing in the woods or in the yard. It was a trial-and-error kind of thing. So, between me and my brothers there were broken bones and hundreds of scrapes and stitches. I wish a course had been available in 1972. While taking a course can certainly eliminate a lot of problems, how does this apply to our daily lives? 2 Timothy 3:16-17 “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” So just like motorcycling is better if you take a course, we need to take a course in our Christian walk as well. Spending time studying the Bible is essential for our daily walk with God. It is a place to find comfort, instruction, and God’s purpose for our lives. No other place better equips us for joys and trials on this road called life. So, as you can see, life is a lot like a motorcycle. Life is supposed to be fun, so get out and enjoy it! Life can be scary but if we put our faith in God, we will never have to face our fears alone! Life is better if you take a course, so pick up those Bibles and find out where God is leading you! Most importantly, a life without God is extremely difficult and will never be fulfilling. Keep these things in mind as you head out on the road in 2021!
Ride on, stay safe! Dennis Reynolds Mideast Regional Elder Bikers For Christ M/M
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PGR 2020 Recap Patriot Guard Riders is an organization predominately made up of motorcycle riders that honor our Veterans. Though members do not have to ride nor do they have to be a Veteran, they have one thing in common: An appreciation and respect for those who are serving and have served in the Armed Forces to protect and serve our Nation. Please visit www.patriotguard.org to find out more about PGR. Patriot Guard Riders is a 501C3 nonprofit. Nonpolitical organization. 2020 was a challenge for all of us who ride. The year started out like years before and then COVID raised its ugly head. Our favorite stops had to close or had extremely limited access. Many of those regulations are still in place. As tough as that has been on us it is the pain families of Veterans felt who lost their loved one and could not receive the earned Military Honors for their loved one due to COVID. COVID19 restrictions prevented the military Honor Guards from participating and providing Military Honors. Families were limited to immediate family only to be present for their loved one’s services in
National Cemeteries. Funeral homes and public cemeteries also had restrictions to no more than 10 for a loved ones funeral service. These families were told they could have military honors provided at a later date. As a result, Patriot Guard Riders were not allowed to stand in honor for those veterans and their families. With the dedication of one our former SC Patriot Guard State Captain and former National Board of Director’s connections in Columbia Randy Stephens was able to get a voice with the SC Veterans Association, Governor’s office, and the Coronavirus task force to obtain permission to show respect to our fallen veterans once again. After 3 months of total shutdown the SC Patriot Guard Riders were given permission to participate in honoring our Veterans in SC once again. Patriot Guard was restricted to no more than 10 members who were required to stay a minimum of 40 feet from the family and others. PGR was happy to be able to once again show these Veterans and their families respect and that their service was not forgotten by showing the honor they earned. Patriots around the state were pleased to finally be allowed to ride escort for Veterans and stand flag lines at funeral homes and cemeteries.
Current conditions have to a large degree opened back up and the above limitations have been relaxed. PGR is available to stand in honor all around the state once again. Families who request our presence for their honorably discharged veteran are assured that The Patriot Guard Riders will be there. PGR also stands for First Responders who lose their life while performing their duties when invited. If you are interested in Patriot Guard Riders please visit the above link or email me at scsc@ patriotguard.org. PGR has no meetings, dues or fees. The only requirement is the respect for those who have served our Nation. You do not have to ride a motorcycle. You do not have to be a Veteran. All are welcome to join in a flag line or escort to show appreciation and honor to those who have served.
Ray “Fireball” Richards South Carolina State Captain Patriot Guard Riders
The Patriot Guard Riders is an organization based in the United States whose members attend the funerals of members of the U.S. military and first responders at the invitation of a decedent's family.
Article & Photos by Lynn B
Article & Photos by Lynn B 24
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3rd Annual Hawgs Spring in the for Dogs Benefit Southeast looks a Ride Still A Success! little Wet On October 24, 2020 riders from every walk of life rallied for a Cause with Paws - the 3rd Annual Hawgs for Dogs Benefit Ride benefitting the Kershaw County Humane Society. The day was sunny, warm and gorgeous. It was the perfect time to raise money for those that can’t help themselves. Saints & Sinners Bar, located on Bishopville Hwy 34, hosted the event for the second year in a row. An estimated 50 bikes participated in the day, with stops at neighboring Mary’s Bar, The Corner Bar, and Ashwood Bar & Grill. Alan & crew at Ashwood’s gave riders a bonus surprise by offering steamed oysters. Back at the final stop, American Proud BBQ Food Truck fed hungry riders as a Live Auction and 50/50 raffle were held. DB Bryant took to the stage later in the evening to get people shakin’ on that 2nd wind! All in all, it was a great day for dogs and bikers alike! Over $2,000 was raised for the Kershaw County Humane Society located at 128 Black River Road in Camden, South Carolina. The Kershaw County Humane Society is a 501©3 nonprofit and no-kill facility serving Kershaw County, South Carolina. KCHS is dedicated to providing food, housing and medical care for lost and homeless animals within Kershaw County, and address the root causes of animal abuse and over population through education and spay/neuter programs. All donations are tax deductible. For more information visit them at www. kchumanesociety.org or follow them on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or TikTok.
Article & Photos by Lynn B
We’ve already seen a lot of rain in South Carolina and according to the Farmer’s Almanac* of 2021, we should plan to see more in the coming months. It may not be what an avid rider likes to hear, but we must be prepared for the worse and rejoice when the forecast is wrong. But if you just can’t leave your bike with the garage door down, take a few extra precautions when riding and you’ll be fine.
MARCH 2021 LONG RANGE WEATHER FORECAST FOR SOUTHEAST Dates Weather Conditions Mar 1-9
Rainy periods; mild, then chilly
Mar 10-17
Sunny, mild
Mar 18-24
Rainy periods, mild
Mar 25-31
Sunny, cool
March
temperature 56° (1° above avg.) precipitation 6.5” (2” above avg.)
The Southeast long range weather region includes all or part of the following states: ALABAMA (Phenix City), GEORGIA (Atlanta, Columbus, Macon, Sandy Springs, Savannah), NORTH CAROLINA (Charlotte, Durham, Fayetteville, Greensboro, Raleigh), SOUTH CAROLINA (Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, North Charleston, Rock Hill), VIRGINIA (Chesapeake, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Suffolk, Virginia Beach). April and May will be a bit cooler than normal, with abovenormal rainfall. Summer will be cooler and drier than normal, with the hottest period in mid-July. Watch for a hurricane threat in early August and a tropical storm threat in midAugust. September and October will be cooler than normal, with near-normal precipitation. Expect a tropical storm threat in early to mid-September. With all that, if you decide to ride in the rain, make sure you have proper gear, ride smarter at slower speeds, become even more aware of what others are doing at intersections, and make sure you place yourself in the driest area of the lane. Each ride will vary, but just because the clouds roll in doesn’t mean you can’t ride. * https://www.almanac.com/weather/longrange/region/us/4#
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Motorcycles & SC Veterans The Ladies of Chrome; “Brothers Forever MC, Tucker Veterans Home Annual Benefit”
Brothers Forever MC & the motorcycle community raised $2,500 with several pledges pending for the Tucker Veterans Home in the Midlands of SC. This event was sponsored by; Brothers Forever MC, Columbia Riders ABATE Chapter, O’Kelly’s/ Monica and staff as event end location, as well as Pam’s Front Porch/ Pam and staff.
Ride stops included; 3 Doors Down, Gossips of Northeast and Gadgets of Lugoff. Brothers Forever MC want to give a special shout out to supporters and doanations from; Lauren, Kim & Phill Hill, Panama, Sandy, Madeline & the Columbia Riders membership, Carolina Rebels MC, Rev. Dooley & Red Stone MM, Warhorse Brotherhood MC, Nicole CGW & Deb with the Ladies of Carolina Chrome Magazine, Rob & Jennifer Smith, Harold & Angie Owens, Cecil & Sandra Vaughn, and more... ***With the interview being on a whem after this benefit, we apologize to anyone or group we left out.
Our Ladies of Chrome attended the Brothers Forever MC benefit, Saturday, February 13th, for the Tucker Veterans Home. Deb, Nina and Linda endured the rainy weather on I-20, I-26 and I-77 to O'Kelly's in East-over, S.C. Most of us that have made it to O’Kelly’s, notices it... as we pass it! The famous O’Kelly U-Turn! The 3 Ladies of Chrome and later Nicole CGW made it, not only through the unique driving conditions & SC drivers but also to famous O’Kelly’s U-Turn!! Even through the rain, the sleet and driving an hour, it didn’t dampen this fundraiser... and we all made it on time-ish! Can you guess the most dangerous part of this whole event for the Ladies of Chrome? Well if you guessed spending money, you got it! Brothers Forever MC had a silent auction with some really awesome items and if that wasn’t enough... Then they had some of the best “Pudding Shot” cupcakes. Oh and you know we got that recipe!!
The winner of the 50/50 drawing was kind enough to donate his winnings back to the Tucker Vets Home, THAT IS AWESOME! Article & Photos by DDeb
The Ladies of Chrome want to Thank everyone who participated in making this benefit a success. We collected 55 signed Christmas cards and donations to go towards our Ladies of Chrome 2021 Goal! Ladies of Chrome Collection Items: Socks Bras House Coats Long Johns Gift Cards for Fast Food FMI Contact Deb @ 803-220-8253
Photography by Grange Simons Lucas III
Photography by Grange Simons Lucas III 28
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Photography by Retread
2020 Hot Rides 4 Heros Coolest Biker Kids WWW.CHROMESC.COM
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A Reason To Ride In the heart of a small town; Salley, SC, between hwy 39 & 389, lies an old building; Dixiana Wholesale & Auction. But what is inside, is much more!... Stan and Karen Fish, the proud patriotic owners, have huge hearts for our Veterans! The moment you walk into the door, you see a wall of pictures featuring Veterans of family and customers. For many years, Stan and Karen have been serving the Veteran community. In 1978, Stan enlisted in the United States Marine Corps., after Bootcamp, Stan was stationed at M.C.A.S. in Beaufort, SC, where he serviced the F4 Phantom Fighter Jets until 1982. After his tour, Stan and Karen moved to New Hampshire to raise their children; Tim and Katie. Proudly, their son followed in his father’s footsteps by also joining the United States Marine Corps. Then in 1998, Stan was in a car accident which left him dependent on a wheelchair. His therapy brought him back to S.C. to escape the cold and to begin healing. As he realized: I needed to live, and to do that, I need to give back! Stan and Karen started buying storage units. Later they moved into buying wholesale goods and started the auction to sell some of these items. As they realized; this business could benefit the community, military and Veterans! As a Marine, he was proud of the Marine reserve “Toys for Tots" Foundation. At the auction, they started a toy drive where the toys were sold and donated by locals. This toy drive exploded and in, the Marines collected several pallets of toys and 50 bicycles from Dixiana Wholesale & Auction.
...to Salley, S.C. With the toy drive being such a success, Stan and Karen decided that they could also help Veteran with a Dixiana’s Blankets for Homeless Vets drive! For every 2 blankets sold at the auction, Stan and Karen donated 1 blanket to homeless Vets in the Orangeburg community! In 2020, they donated over 300 pairs of socks by auctioning them and then receiving donations from the community. Once again, they still had more to give! The auction, along with the patrons wanted to make a monetary donation to Disabled Veterans in Columbia. Thanks to the determination of Stan and Karen and the generosity of the customerws they were able to make a large money donation for this cause. Stan and Karen: These patriotic folks have served the nation, our state of SC and community! Their tireless dedication has paid off for the Veterans as well as the community! We are EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE: Dixiana Wholesale & Auction has partnered up with Carolina Chrome to help more Veterans ALL OVER the state of South Carolina!!! So, when you’re riding through Sally, SC; stop in and support this awesome establishment and cause!! Thank You Stan for your service and for all Y’ALL do for our S.C. Veterans! Article & Pictures by: Deb Davis
Dedicated to protecting the rights of injured motorcyclists. We ride so we understand. If you’ve been injured, call the Motorcycle Law Group.SM
1-800-321-8968 www.MotorcycleLawGroup.com Licensed in Virginia, West Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia.
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